Life with my Loves

At least it ended well

2012-02-10T22:35:00.001-05:00

Sorry for the whole Debbie Downer thing earlier. It's been a very emotional week for me and today was no different. But I can say that it ended on such a great note!

I killed my lecture today! I have been a little nervous about it because I hadn't prepared as much as I would have liked to and my topic wasn't the most thrilling topic to talk about for about 45 minutes {if you're wondering, I spoke about acute and chronic graft vs host disease, long term complications of bone marrow transplant, and the role of the ambulatory nurse...sounds really intriguing at 5pm on Friday night, right?} I was expecting about 4 people and a casual setting for the lecture but it turned out to be 11-15 people in a room with a huge projector and a podium!!! Let me tell you...the nerves went through the roof. When I got there, I was comforted to see half the group were nurses I worked with on the inpatient unit. When it was my turn, it all just came together. I didn't use any of the speaker notes. I didn't feel nervous at all. I actually felt like I was an expert! Now I don't know if the audience thought the same of my lecturing skills but from what I hear, I guess it didn't bore them to tears! I'm so excited!! Nursing Education is an area of nursing that I can totally see myself in {if I ever get tired of my cancer kiddos...which I don't think I ever will!!!}

After my awesome lecture, we had a work dinner planned at Acropolis. It was a great time! I love me some Greek food but I loved the company more than anything. I have a great group of friends from the inpatient unit that I still hang out with, even after I made the switch to the outpatient world, that I wouldn't replace for anything. But there's something so refreshing about working with a group of people who genuinely get along and enjoy each other's company. It's because of this that my transition to the clinic has been such a good one. I was so nervous to leave my friends on the unit and the job that I was comfortable with, so I could start over with a group of people I only knew from taking report over the phone. Every one of them welcomed me into the clinic family. It's been a move that I have never regretted (no matter how miserable I may have seen this week). It was nice to share a drink ~~or 2~~ with the nurses and doctors I work with on a daily basis. I am truly blessed!

And because I haven't shared a pic of my kiddos lately, here's a new thing going on in our house. Em's back in this routine where she needs to be rocked before she goes to bed. Noah, being the amazing big brother that he is, always offers to rock her to sleep.

Pretty soon they won't even want to talk to each other. Guess I have to soak it all in now

Hope everyone has a great weekend!!!

Frustration

2012-02-10T08:00:00.000-05:00

I hate when I feel overwhelmed or frustrated.
I just hate it.
I also can't stand when work makes me feel that way.

Right now I'm having such a rough time. I'm frustrated with so much lately. I also feel guilty I'm feeling so upset.

I know that I am a great nurse. I know that I'm good at what I do. I know that I put my heart and soul into everything I do for my kids and their families. It just infuriates me when someone tries to make me feel like I don't. {Please don't take that as me being cocky. I just know I give 110% at my job because I LOVE it}

I don't like feeling this way. I don't like being angry. It just doesn't suit me. And I feel bad for my family because I come home so emotionally spent that I can't enjoy my time with them. And that's not fair.

I'm ready for the frustration to end.

It's OK

2012-02-09T20:51:00.000-05:00

I'm so happy it's Thursday because it means linking up with Amber and Neely for It's Ok Thursday. And let me tell you, this is about the only happy thing going on for me right now. But I don't want to be Debbie Downer so here goes.....

It's OK.....

~that I haven't commented on many posts this week. I promise I'm reading everyone's blogs!!! I just can't keep up right now....

~that I'm horribly frustrated with a situation at work. So maybe it's not ok but I'm trying to convince myself that it is

~to have splurged a little this week on what I've been eating

~to be looking forward to a good thought-clearing run this weekend

~that I have to give a lecture tomorrow afternoon and I haven't really looked at the powerpoint slides yet

~that I've been planning Noah's teachers's Valentine's gifts for a while now but haven't started them

~to almost be on a first name basis with my local Starbucks barista this week

~to still be up in the air about running a half marathon this weekend

~to be thankful for all the blessings in my life!

Weekly Weigh In #3

2012-02-07T20:58:00.001-05:00

Tonight was the big weigh in again. I'm happy to report that I am down another 1.2lbs this week, for a grand total of 10.4lbs! I'm really excited about this because I was really nervous after this weekend. Not only did I eat at Burger King (my stomach hated me for it), I also indulged in mac/cheese, tons of chicken, pasta, birthday cake, a McFlurry, 2 slices of pizza, a few pieces of bread, a taco salad, and a Diet Coke (first soda in 4 weeks). And that's only to name a few of the ridiculously unhealthy things I consumed this weekend. {Disney is not very "point friendly" for lack of a better word. C'mon Disney...get your act together. Offer healthier options please!!!} I am beyond blessed to have had any loss at the scales. I will say that it did make me feel better that I can splurge a little more than I usually do and still see some form of positive numbers. But now it's back to being focused. I'm determined to melt away these pounds.

Now I think it's off to bed for me
{Hubs....I just can't get to the laundry tonight. I can't keep my eyes open. I PROMISE it will all get folded tomorrow and definitely by Friday. I love you!}

Belated Birthday Party

2012-02-07T12:04:00.000-05:00

We took Noah up to Disney this weekend for his "birthday" party. He originally wanted to have a class party (and I had finally mustered up the courage to have 16 3-5 yr olds in one place but something made him abandon that idea (thank God). He decided he wanted to have lunch with Jake from Jake and the Neverland Pirates. {If you have a preschooler, I'm sure you've heard of Jake. If not, he's from a cartoon on Disney Jr and he's the leader of a group of pirates in Neverland who have great adventures and try to teach Captain Hook and Smee some good life lessons} So we (I) jumped headfirst and started planning. We got a table for 14 and grabbed the entire family for a great lunch.

We started the day at Hollywood Studios. Noah's now tall enough to ride most of the height restricted rides so he went on Star Tours first. Let me tell you.....he was so excited to ride the Star Wars ride. He ended up riding it 3 times that day! By the time lunch rolled around, Noah was in the WORST mood ever. He didn't want to eat, he didn't want to go to lunch, he didn't want to meet the characters. I wanted to kill him. We made all of our family come up, spend a good $30/person on lunch {granted it was an awesome buffet} for him to act like this....not way sir. Once Jake strolled out, he was grinning from ear to ear. Jake signed his book, he took a picture with him, and he even went up and danced with Jake! It ended up being a better lunch that I thought it would be. The food was awesome too, FYI! I might have eaten as much as I felt like and didn't really count my points. Hopefully I don't gain tonight at my weigh in! The rest of the day was spent over at Epcot. On Sunday we headed to Magic Kingdom for a couple of hours. Having our annual passes makes it so convenient for us and so nice because we don't feel pressured into trying to cram so much into one day. We can go for a couple of hours and not feel like we wasted our money. All in all, it was a great day!!!

Noah and Jake!!!

Now I have to be watching like a hawk since Em walked out of her play castle, diaper in hand, naked as the day she was born. She said she does not want her diaper, she wants her Mermaid diapers (aka Little Mermaid panties) We'll see how long this lasts.......

ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ

2012-02-06T21:24:00.000-05:00

Man am I tired! After a busy busy weekend and a long day at work, I'm back in action. I just spent the last hour catching up on a weekend's worth of blog reading and let me tell you, that's exhausting!!! But I can't not read all my faves! But now my bed is calling my name!!!

Oh and I'm debating whether or not to randomly run a half marathon this weekend....should I???

So much for waiting til the weekend.....

2012-02-03T00:32:00.000-05:00

I couldn't help myself. I went ahead and changed everything. I hope you like it! I think I really like the way the blog looks.

But who knows....I might be changing it back later.

I feel like I need to explain more about why the big change.

I've been thinking about changing my blog name for a while. If you go to the very beginning of the blog, it's all about my pregnancy with Em and all the complications that followed. Honestly, I thought about never writing on here again. Life with 2 kids was horribly hard. But one day I logged back in and started writing. {Quick side note....I'm a big believer in journaling. I've had a diary/journal for as long as I can remember. I think that's why I got so into blogging. It's a new and improved way to journal} Once I started writing, I started reading other blogs. I only knew blogging as "Mom Blogs." I had no clue how many young people were getting into the blogging world and how many friendships are created because of it. Slowly the blog turned from general updates about life to me opening up and sharing my life with the entire world. It's become more of me than just the family. And I'm ok with that. I share what's going on in my life, how I feel, and what I love. I don't feel like the blog is any less about my family. I think it's a good mix between me and my family. I could not be prouder of what I'm putting out here. It's all from the heart and that's all that matters.

I have to thank all the Tampa girls for kinda pushing me in this direction. We went around the table saying who we are and what our blog is, and you know what? I couldn't remember the wording of my title. What did that say about me and this lil blog? Definitely opened my eyes a little. Then enter the whole Twitter thing. Yes I joined because of peer pressure. I'm not ashamed of it either. But anyways, I was trying to come up with a clever name and was getting help from Lauren. She threw out a couple suggestions and it came to me.....Life with my Loves! I fell in love, since that's exactly what it is...my life with my 3 loves!

So from now on, my tiny space of internet property will be a true representation of me!

Life With My Loves.....Living Life the Only Way We Know How

Change is Coming.....

2012-02-02T22:57:00.000-05:00

I changed the name of my blog. The previous name was too boring (in my mind) and plus, when I started this blog, it was to update my family on my life on bedrest. Never in a million years did I expect myself to fall in love with blogging and all the friends that goes with it. I think Life With My Loves is a better representation of what this blog is all about....me sharing my 3 amazing loves with all of you! I'm so happy with it!!!

I also figured out how to make a button (I think)

Next up....changing up the layout.

However that has to wait a while. We have a Disney trip planned for this weekend!!!

See y'all on the flip side!!!

Weekly Weigh In

2012-01-31T22:00:00.000-05:00

Yep. It's Tuesday. That only means one thing.....Glee!!! Actually it's weigh in day but let's talk Glee for just a sec. OK? Great.
Oh.Em.Gee.
That's all I have to say.
Ok that was a lie. I have more descriptive statements.
It was AMAZING!!! I loved the songs. The outfits...unreal. The interactions between New Directions and the Warblers was the highlight. I'm in awe of these people every week. Thank you for making Tuesday nights so enjoyable!!!
Now back to regularly scheduled programming...
Again this week I was eager to get on the scale. I have felt really great all week so I figured I had a decent loss. I am happy to report that I lost another 4lbs. Yep that's a grand total of 9.2lbs so far! I'm beyond excited. Now I know it seems like a lot in a short period of time but I'm sure next week will begin the routine of 1-2lb weight losses rather than huge ones like this week and last week. However, it was nice to see that the ~~three~~ drinks I had with my Tampa girls didn't affect me on the scales!!! Once I lose a little more, you'll see exciting before and after pics (I just have to see the difference myself first)

Well... ll of this excitement has made me pretty tired. So why not close with a little bit of love from today's Field Day event

I love these 2!!! Noah's teacher made Emmy a class shirt even though she's not in PreK yet

Yeah, that's my kid with the mad ups!!!!

What a Weekend!

2012-01-30T21:06:00.000-05:00

This was one of those really great weekends. There aren't too many times I can say that. But truly, this was a good one. It started off Friday night with good food, great drinks, and amazing women. I finally got to meet some of the wonderful Tampa bloggers that I read about on a daily basis. Now, instead of pretending that I'm one of their friends, I really am! We hit up Fly Bar and had a blast (or at least I did!!!) You know how I was nervous about meeting them? The minute I walked in, all the nerves went away. It really was like hanging out with old friends. This meet up could have been a complete disaster if these girls weren't so kick ass. There was no way we weren't going to have fun. I can't wait to have our next meet up!!!!

Our awesome group of gals

Love the Tampa sign behind us!!!

We had to have Meghan in the pic!!!
I stole all the pics from Lauren and Meghan....thanks girlies!!!

After an amazing night, my mom, my bro's gf, and I headed down to the Saturday Morning Market in St Pete. I just love that place! Lots of great food, great produce, and tons of fun. I'm planning on making it a Saturday morning ritual! Then it was just relaxing at home with the fam for the rest of the day....can't beat that!
Sunday we headed to the Hubs's mom's house for lunch. His step dad had been in the hospital for some heart issues so it was nice to see him feeling well and loving that he was surrounded by his grandkids. I just love it every time my kids get to hang out with our nephew. The 3 of them are so cute together! Although I'm bummed I didn't take any pics of them (I don't really know why I didn't).
It was just one of those weeks where we weren't rushing around like crazy. That was the biggest blessing of them all!
I'm excited that tomorrow is Field Day at Noah's school and I'm helping out! I just love this stuff!!! Then we have our big Disney weekend starting on Friday!!! Lots of excitement in this house!!!

I'm definitely lost

2012-01-29T16:45:00.000-05:00

I've caved and joined the Twitter world. I have absolutely no idea what I'm doing but the lovely ladies that I hung out with Friday night have convinced me to be one of the cool kids. If you want to see how much I'm drowning in this new world, you can find me at @lifewithmyloves
Wish me luck!!!

Today's the Big Day

2012-01-27T08:30:00.000-05:00

Yep. Today is the day we've all been waiting for. Well if you live in Tampa. And no, it's not Gasparilla (yet). Today I finally get to meet all of the amazing Tampa Bloggers that I so religiously read about. I'm really excited about it too (if you haven't noticed already). But in all that excitement, I'm totally nervous. Weird, right? But seriously, I'm kinda nervous. I think I've picked out a great outfit. I'm hoping to make it there on time (work better not run late). I'm hoping they don't think I'm a nerd. Well I'm kinda a nerd so I guess that one wouldn't be too off.
All I know is: Watch Out Tampa!!! I think this is going to be quite the get together!
See you gals there!!!

It's OK

2012-01-26T12:57:00.002-05:00

Boy am I exhausted. Em's been sick for 2 days now which means the Hubs and I have had a bed-mate the past 2 nights. That equals a very tired Mommy since I have gotten little sleep. So before I head to my cozy bed for a nap, I figured I'd link up with Amber and Neely!

It's OK....
~to not get anything accomplished today because I am so tired
~to be that crazy, overprotective mother who hates seeing her babies sick
~to not only be the crazy mom as defined above, but I'm also a neurotic nurse mom that knows too much medical information and creates tons of different health scenarios whenever a child is sick
~to still be wicked excited about my weigh in on Tuesday night
~to be so excited yet nervous about the big Blogger Meetup tomorrow night!

Happy Thursday everyone! I'm off to bed.....

And the results are.....

2012-01-24T21:47:00.000-05:00

5.2!!!!
Yes you read that right. I lost 5.2lbs this week! I have never been so excited to hop on a scale before. I even got a great response from the leader who checked me in. I am really proud of myself. And the best part....I haven't even felt like I've been "dieting" once this week! Every night I've enjoyed frozen yogurt. I've eaten out at least twice this week too (and have had a drink or 2)! Goes to show you that on WW you can eat anything!!!
And in case you were wondering, I have really exercised (at all) this week. I had such amazing results just by changing up my eating habits. With the new program, all fresh fruits are free....zero points. You can eat as much as you want! I've stocked up on berries, pears, bananas, etc and when I'm hungry, I'm not turning towards chips or cookies. I'm grabbing a handful of berries instead. And I don't miss all the other junk. I've also increased my water consumption three-fold. I have my cup everywhere I go (its a cute Tervis tumbler courtesy of my lil bro/gf this Christmas) and I refill it the minute it gets halfway empty. I haven't had a soda since January 15th, even when I can drink all the diet soda I want. I thought this was going to be a HORRIBLE thing to do but to be honest with you, I didn't even plan to cut out soda. It just happened. I'm sure that's where a lot of my success came from. I was drinking WAY too much soda over the past few months. I'm very excited to say that I've cut it out.
I'm also feeling so much better. I have more energy. I'm sleeping better. My stomach issues have pretty much settled this week. All in all, I'm amazing!!! I knew that I must have had a great week because a shirt I just bought is a little loose now. It's those little things that make each pound lost that much better.
So here's to another week of healthy habits. And another week after that. And another. And another.......

At a loss....

2012-01-23T22:45:00.000-05:00

It doesn't happen often (ask the Hubs) but I'm at a loss for words. I have no idea what to blog about. Who would have thought that me, the girl who can talk for hours, has nothing to say? Oh well. I guess I'll have to do some thinking tonight. Tomorrow is my first weigh in at WW. I'm sure that will give me something to share (and hopefully some exciting news!!!)

Also, I'm not much into politics, especially politics of the Republican nature. But I do want to give a huge GO BULLS to my Alma Mater as it hosts the GOP debate tonight! As Facebook tells me, USF is looking good!!!
I'll share a few pics of my kiddos instead!

For some reason, I love this pic of him...crazy hair and all!!!

This is what happens when you say "Let's put on outside clothes." You get a tutu and dress shoes. Oh and please ignore our ugly looking yard....OK.. Thanks!!!

Happy Tuesday!!!!

Tag!!!

2012-01-20T22:52:00.000-05:00

Happy Friday everyone!!! Hope it was a great week! Mine was busy with a emotional day at work but we're all hanging in there. I'm excited for today's post. I was tagged (for the first time) by sweet Renee at This Won't Hurt A Bit!!! Does that make me one of the cool kids now???? I think so!!!

Thanks Renee for tagging me! If you don't know you, you should definitely check her out. She's a fellow nurse who totally understands my obsession with wearing crazy socks with my scrubs!!!

Here are the official rules:

1. Post these rules.

2. Step 1- You must post 11 random things about yourself

3. Step 2- Answer the questions the tagger set for you in their post

4. Step 3- Create 11 new questions for the people you tag to answer

5. Go to their blog and tell them that you've tagged them

6. No stuff in the tagging section about 'you are tagged if you are reading this.' Blah Blah Blah. You legitimately have to tag 11 peeps!

{11} Randoms about Me

1. I always wash my hair the minute I get in the shower. I don't know why I do this first but that's the way it is.

2. I taught myself to roll (or curl) my tongue when I was in 7th grade. My science teacher said you were ever able to do it or not. I was in the "not able" group which didn't fly with me. Proved her wrong!!!

3. I was the 8th ranked outside hitter on the Florida All State Team for Class 3A my senior year of high school. Not to shabby for a short girl!

4. My all time favorite movie is "The Neverending Story"....weird I know....

5. I hate running even though I want to consider myself a runner

6. I had my own billboard when I was in 4th grade

7. I can touch my thumb to my inner forearm

8. I'm ridiculously intrigued by left handed people. And it's only gotten worse now that Em's turned into a lefty

9. Mayo makes me vomit....literally

10. All of my hangers have to be facing a particular way and I am not above changing other people's hanging

11. I never wanted to be a "cancer nurse." Now I can't imagine doing any other job.

{11} Questions for Me

1. What is your middle name?

I HATE my middle name. My middle name is Ryan. Yes like the boy's name. My parents must have hated me (j/k they love me). I never told anyone my middle name until my senior year of high school.

2. What is your most embarrassing moment?

Having a little too much wine at a wedding and having to have the Hubs pull over because I was sick. I'm actually quite ashamed by it (I know this is a boring moment but it still bothers me)

3. Who is your celebrity crush?

Currently, I'm loving me some Ryan Reynolds!

4. If you could move anywhere on Earth tomorrow, where would you pick?

Easy....NYC. I would move there this second if I had the chance!!!

5. What do you like to do when you have spare time?

What is spare time??? I love to read, take pictures, shop, line dance, hang out with my family, and sleep

6. Do you prefer a phone call or text?

Text..hands down. My preferred form of communication is texting

7. If you could win a shopping spree anywhere, where would you pick?

A toss up between Loft and New York & Company

8. If you went to Starbucks today, what would you order?

Funny you should ask since I did go today! I get a grande triple skinny peppermint mocha. DJ (my cute little barista) made my day today when he said they were keeping the skinny peppermint syrup all year!!!

9. What kind of car do you drive?

Ford Flex

10. In a spouse, rank your most preferred personality traits (highest 1 to lowest 5): sense of humor, appearance/physical attraction, intelligence, generosity, and passion

{1} intelligence {2} sense of humor {3} passion {4} appearance {5} generosity

11. If you could only choose one TV show that you could watch ever again, what would it be?

Glee

{11} Questions for You

1. What article of clothing could you not live without?

2. If you were stranded on a deserted island and could only have 3 things, what would you want to have?

3. If you had to choose, would you rather to have a computer or TV?

4. What was your childhood nickname?

5. Who would win in a fight...Chuck Norris or MacGyver?

6. If you were the President for 1 day, what would you change?

7. Who is your role model?

8. Someone walks up to you and asks for some spare change. Do you have any?

9. What is in your purse right now?

10. iPhone or Android?

11. What is your dream vacation?

I'm tagging the following peeps:

Lauren @ A Modern Day Wife's Journey

Asha @ Asha's Aspects

Krystina @ Cup 'a Hot Chocolate

Lauren @ Life with Lauren

Meghan @ Little Girl in the Big World

Taylor @ Make It Count

Lindsey @ Running Down a Dream

Kari @ La Bella Vita

Meghan @ My Life as a Lawyer's Wife

Ashley @ Very Ashley

Meghan @ The Perfect Compilation Tape

Let's be serious for a moment

2012-01-19T21:22:00.000-05:00

Normally on Thursdays I join all the cool people on Amber and Neely's "It's OK" link up but I think I'm going to take a lil break from that and get a lil serious. I wrote earlier this week that I'm back on the Weight Watchers bandwagon. I have a love/hate relationship with WW. I love them because the program really does work. It's not a sham. And the best part about it...I can eat ice cream every night of the week and still lose the pounds. I hate WW because I have to go to them. I really hate that I need this program to help me.

I feel like I've had a weight problem my whole life. I was never the skinny kid. I was always the girl with the "athletic" build....aka huge, muscular thighs and a boxy shape. I never minded it because I was athletic. I played sports all the time and once I hit 8th grade, I was playing volleyball 11 months out of the year. Once I hit college, I realized that the "athletic" build wasn't the standard. Unfortunately the dreaded Freshmen 15 hit me....a few times over. I was at my heaviest and really miserable. My sophomore year was a little better but I decided the summer between sophomore and junior year that I was going to change things. I joined WW with my mom and grandma and dropped almost 30lbs. I was feeling great. I gained a little of it back, met my husband, and got pregnant. So needless to say, I had some extra weight on me that never really left. A few more years went by, no weight went away. I had my daughter and finally decided it was time to do something. I was at my heaviest ever and really unhappy. So back on program I went. And I did really well. 25lbs melted off and I was looking good and feeling great. And what happens....I think I can do it myself. I went off program this time last year and it's been all downhill since. I am happy to say that I did not gain every single pound back (there's like 3 that I didn't gain back) but it's all back. I'm very disappointed in myself because I let myself fall back into all of my bad habits. What kind of role model is that for my kids? How is it fair that I want them to eat right and stay healthy when I'm doing nothing to make myself healthy?
So this time around, I'm truly ready for this. Not only am I sick of being overweight, I'm in the right mindset to make this work. I've been on program since Saturday and you know what? I feel amazing. I haven't had a soda since Sunday. I'm drinking my weight in water (my kidneys don't know what the hell is happening). I'm turning to fruits and veggies when I'm hungry instead of chips and other junk. I've cheated a little and jumped on the scale and I'm already down a pound or 2. I am really looking forward to my weigh in on Tuesday. I've never looked forward to a weigh in...ever. I truly think that this is the time for me. This is the time I take control over my weight and my habits. I can't wait to see how this goes. And I do have to say thanks to the Hubs for supporting me in this. Never once has he ever said anything about me gaining weight. He's always said I'm pretty, regardless of how horrible I think I look. He's always there to support my need for this program and my need to succeed. Even though we're not doing the program together, I feel like he's going through the whole process with me. Thanks Hubs!!!

Well that was depressing. I guess it's ice cream time (and I'm totally allowed to!!!)

If you're going to do it, do it right

2012-01-17T20:44:00.000-05:00

Not only words to live by...
That's what the Hubs told me tonight about my blogging. I guess I have failed to update our "Meet the Crimella's" page on here and it is really bothering him. He told me that if I was going to do this (blog), then I better do it right.
It's funny to me that a man who thinks I'm ridiculous for getting caught up in the blogging world (more specifically, for being so excited for the Tampa Blogger Meetup), is the one who is going to critique the blog and get all bent out of shape about it. It's kinda cute! I guess I'm pretty lucky that the Hubs actually reads this little ol' thing.
So without further adieu.....
the "Meet the Crimella's" page is current!

Hope you're satisfied my dear Hubs ;)

Next up....my hatred of the letter carrier revisited

And so it starts.....

2012-01-16T21:14:00.003-05:00

Yep. I'm back on the wagon.
I figured it was time to get back on program. With it being the new year, everyone's making resolutions. Why shouldn't I, right? I'm back at Weight Watchers and determined to lose the 25lbs I lost last year (that unfortunately found their way back to me) plus another 35lbs. That's my ultimate goal. So I'll be weighing in every Tuesday (starting next week) so I'm sure I'll be sharing my scale experience. It might keep me accountable too. So if you think I'm slacking....let me know ;)

I was not one of the fortunate people who had the luxury of staying home from work today.
Happy MLK Day, BTW
This weekend seemed like it flew by even if I didn't really do too much. Saturday I did a little shopping (got a bunch of cute new items at great prices from the favs...NY&Co and Loft) and Sunday we had Noah's family birthday party. I'm going to say this again....I really can't believe Noah's 5. Where did my little boy go? Now he calls me Mom and knows what stretch marks are.
{Side note....I just have to share this story, no matter how embarrassing it is for me but we're all friends here so why not. So I was putting Em to bed and walked by the bathroom while itching my belly. Noah was in his bathroom and yelled, "Mommy, come back here." So I did and he instantly started inspecting my stomach. He said, in the most serious tone of voice, "You have stretch marks." I asked him how he knew what stretch marks are and he said (again in that serious tone) "I saw that commercial on TV about them. There's a formula that you rub on and it makes them go away." What do I say to that??? I make him retell the story to the Hubs who is trying his hardest not to bust out laughing. He tells the story again, as seriously as a heart attack, but even says, and I quote, "I think it's called Palmer's formula. Thats what Mommy needs." Where did this boy come from???? Now I'm nervous for any trip to Target because I'm sure Palmer's cocoa butter lotion will be on the shopping list}
Anywho....I think my son's stretch mark discovery has really solidified my need to get back on program. Pretty soon he'll be calling me a fat ass!!!
OMG I forgot to mention how excited I am for the Tampa Bloggers Meetup on the 27th!!! I can't wait to meet everyone!!!!

It's OK and a Very Happy Birthday

2012-01-12T11:53:00.000-05:00

Noah turns 5 today. I have no idea where the time has gone. It really feels like yesterday that we were changing his diapers, rocking him to sleep, watching him grow into a little person. Now he's a boy. And he really is. He's grown up so much. It's been a blast watching him grow into the boy he is. He's funny and witty, yet gentle and sweet. Pretty soon, he's not going to want his Mommy. He'll be too cool for me and I'm so afraid of that day. Maybe that's why I'm having such a hard time with his 5th birthday. But enough of my whining. I figured out how to make Transformers cupcakes that would win Noah's approval, spent the morning with him at school for his birthday snack, and now it's time to take a nap. This Mommy's exhausted!!!

So why not celebrate Noah's birthday with a little "It's OK" Thursday!

It's OK......
~To be super emotional about Noah's birthday today
~To try not to think about my little boy being 5
~To have red/blue tinged fingers left over from making colored icing last night. That stuff is hard to get off!!!
~To be ready for my first run of the new year...yes I'm a slacker. It's time to get this ass back in gear
~To not know how to spend my free $20 offer from Shutterfly...I just love free stuff from them!!!!
~To be ready for the weekend. It's been a long week for me and I'm out of my routine. Next week is business as usual
~To almost be in the mood to figure out my fantasy baseball team. Our draft will be here before I know it
~To be missing my friends. I haven't seen anyone in forever and I'm seriously overdue on some quality girl time
~To have the best family ever!!!

Happy Birthday Bubbs!!!! I can't believe you're 5! Mommy loves you!!!

Fairytale Ending

2012-01-12T00:58:00.000-05:00

Let's get my craziness out of the way before the fun stuff. My son turns 5 tomorrow. Well I guess he's already 5 since it's after midnight and technically it's January 12th. I don't know why this is bothering me so much. 5 is just a number. He's not getting his license or going to college. He's in PreK for crying out loud. But it's killing me. I almost cried talking about it at work multiple times. Which makes me feel even more stupid. Oh well. I guess I'll just cry a little tonight, tomorrow, and for the rest of my life as I watch my lil man grow up.

Now that's out of the way.....

So I left off with us getting to Magic Kingdom after a great day at Epcot. We always go to the Melting Pot for our anniversary. It's sorta a tradition. {A little back story....Noah was born 5 days after our 1st Anniversary so needless to say, I was HUGE and ready to deliver at any moment. The Hubs, a little paranoid for our first pregnancy, wouldn't take me anywhere for our anniversary that was more than 15 minutes from the hospital. I talked him into going to the Melting Pot in Maitland (I got him to leave the city of Orlando....huge feat). And we've gone there ever since} This year, we decided to have a Disney weekend. We made a reservation at Tony's, a cute Italian restaurant at Magic Kingdom and planned on eating there. Well Friday afternoon, I just happened to be at my desk at the right time. The Hubs called and asked if I would mind if we changed our reservation to Cinderella's Castle. Yes....THE Cinderella's Castle. How awesome?!?!? We've been there once before but it's been years. So we booked it.
The whole ride to Orlando I was kinda upset (ok I was legit upset) about the time of the reservation. It was an 8pm reservation and fireworks were scheduled for 9pm. I'm ~~sorta~~ a snob when it comes to watching the fireworks. I have a specific spot I watch them in and if I'm not in that spot, I might get a little whiny. But I sucked it up for the sake of the Hubs. We checked in for our reservation, hung out with Cinderella for a moment, then were whisked away to our table.
This is where the Hubs outdid himself. He realizes how bratty I can get with the fireworks. He requested a window table when he made our reservation! Not only were we greeted with magic wands and royal swords, he managed to make sure I had a perfect view of the fireworks. It was amazing!!! I might have teared up a little but I'll never admit that ;)
If you've never eaten at Cinderella's Royal Table (that's what it's officially called), you should definitely try to go. It's hard to get a reservation (I don't know how we lucked out to get a table) but so worth the money and effort. It's a 3 course meal fit for a princess! I started out with a cheese sampling. I had honey drizzled brie, lavender infused goat cheese, and white cheddar sticks. The Hubs had an amazing salad. For our entrees, the Hubs got roasted beef tips with potatoes and asparagus (supposedly it was like butter...I don't really get what that means so I hope you do) and I had a asparagus, mozzarella, and prosciutto stuffed chicken breast with leeks and artichokes. AMAZING!!!! And for dessert...the Hubs got a cupcake with different toppings to create the ultimate cupcake. I ordered almond cheesecake with lingonberry jam. She accidentally brought out chocolate mousse so we ended up with 3 desserts. To say they were TO.DIE.FOR would be the understatement of the century. During dinner, the Princesses come and visit every table. We had visits from Ariel, Belle, Aurora, and Snow White. They took pictures with every table and every one of them wished us a happy anniversary. We even got to see a loving proposal (I'm a little jealous of the proposal!) All in all, we left very full and had the most amazing anniversary to date.
After dinner we hit up Space Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain. The Hubs and I are roller coaster people but can't go on any when we have the kiddos. So it was nice to actually get to ride a big kid ride for a change.
The Hubs definitely did a great job. It was the little touches, like requesting a window table so I could watch the fireworks, that made it so amazing. I may have to take back all my talk about him not being romantic if he keeps this up!!!

What an amazing view!!!!

A quick trip to Italy

2012-01-09T20:57:00.000-05:00

Before I go into our amazing weekend, I wanted to say Go Bama!
I don't like LSU or Alabama at all. They're rival SEC schools to the Hubs's Gators {which I could care less about too (Gator Hater, right here!!!) but it makes my marriage easier when the Gators win} but since they're playing in the big BCS game, I figure I have to cheer for one of them.
Why did I choose Bama?
Easy.
Purple and Yellow don't match.
Yep, that's right folks. I choose teams based on their uniforms. I also choose based on mascots.
LSU almost had an edge because they have a really cool tiger eye painted on the center of their field but that doesn't pull them in front of Bama.
I also like houndstooth (but not as much as this girl)....just another reason to like Bama!

Anywho...back to my weekend
We headed up to Orlando Friday night, checked into the hotel, grabbed some dinner, hit up Target (I forgot my brush and the Christmas clearance section happened to be 90% off...had to buy something!!!), and headed to the outlets. My running shoes, which I also wear to work, are sprouting holes all over the toes. I'm pretty much one more toe hole away from looking like a bum. So we hit up the New Balance outlet for some running/work shoes. Then it was off to CityWalk for margaritas and live music at Margaritaville. I can't remember the last time the Hubs and I actually sat at a bar and had drinks together. It was fun and we actually stayed awake long enough to enjoy it! Then it was back to the hotel for some much needed sleep.
Saturday was our anniversary. We really didn't have much planned except dinner reservations. We headed to Epcot since we don't get to explore it with the kids. The Disney Half Marathon/Marathon was this weekend too so we got to cheer on the runners running that final mile of the Half through Epcot. Watching them really made me upset I didn't sign up for the Princess Half again this year. Oh well, I'm determined to do at least 1 runDisney event next year. We rode some rides and headed off to the worlds. We had an amazing lunch in Italy (how many people can say their Hubs have taken them to Italy for lunch???), wandered around some more and then headed home for a nap. We woke up, got dressed and headed out to Magic Kingdom for our amazing dinner.
Here's pics from Friday and Saturday

Starting off our Anniversary weekend the right way!!!

Lunch in Italy

Our restaurant in Italy

An anniversary ride on the carousel

Dinner was so amazing that it deserves it's own post but I'll give you a hint. It involves this:

Stay tuned to see what a great job the Hubs did! He's on a roll this year!!!

I Do....Again and Again

2012-01-07T13:00:00.000-05:00

Six years ago today, at this very time, I walked down the aisle towards my future.

Six years later, I have 2 amazing children.

Six years later, I still wake up next to my best friend every day.

Six years later, I would still walk down that same aisle, towards that same future.

I would do it over and over again.

I couldn't imagine a different life for me.

I couldn't imagine sharing my life with any other person.

I just couldn't.

No matter what I think when I'm mad.

No matter what I say in the heat of the moment.

No matter what.

I love you like the day we met.

I love you like the night you asked and I said yes.

I love you like the day we said I do.

Thank you for making me a better person.

Thank you for making me a mother.

Thank you for making me a wife.

Thank you for choosing me.

Thank you for loving me.

Because I choose you, over and over.

Because I love you, forever and always.

Off we go......

2012-01-06T10:00:00.000-05:00

I'm so excited that the Hubs and I are sneaking away for a "grown up" weekend! It's been far too long since we did anything that was just us. Plus it's our anniversary so why not spend it by ourselves?!? Once we clock out tonight, we're off to Orlando for a fun filled weekend. We're going to try to be cool adults and hit up a bar or 2 tonight (after shopping the outlets first). We're old and lame so I'm hoping that we'll be able to do this without getting too tired. Saturday we're hitting up Epcot and Magic Kingdom and Sunday it's Animal Kingdom.
{Disney again you ask???? Abso-freakin-lutely!!! The Hubs and I are HUGE Disney fans...if you haven't noticed already....we almost got married there too. Plus it's a free trip for us with our passes}
I can't wait to eat a meal, or 2, or 3, without having to: cut up someone's food, inhale my food in no time flat, make sure crayons, cars, trains, and princesses are readily available, or fight to keep people from going under the table. OK and I won't lie....I'm stoked I can ride all the big kid rides at Disney that we can never ride with the kiddos!
So how do I speed up the clocks????

2012-01-05T23:06:00.000-05:00

Well it's that time of week....It's OK Thursdays. Join Amber and Neely as they try to reach 100 link ups!!!

It's OK.....
~to be completely pissed that half of my New Years cards say Wishing you a Happy and Healthy 2011. What a moron!!!
~to be excited that this was a 3 day work week for me!!!
~to be even more excited that we leave tomorrow after work for our Orlando mini vacay, sans the kiddos
~to think it is too cold in Florida right now. It was 36 degrees yesterday and I had ice on my car today. It even got down to 19 degrees yesterday in some areas around me.....OOC!!!!
~to wear my Tory Burch flats every chance I get
~to watch Big Bang Theory all night, every night
~to be nervous about scheduling posts for the first time. I mean I'll miss all of you but my vacay is calling
~to be excited that Saturday is our 6th Anniversary. There are days that I never thought we'd make it this far
~to be seriously crushing on the Erin Condren Chi Omega stationary line...SWOON!!!

I'll be back on Monday for your blogging pleasure! Say a few prayers that my scheduled posts work!

Resolutions???

2012-01-04T21:05:00.002-05:00

I'm a big loser.
I mean really....how many people do you know takes a chunk of their fingertip off with a vegetable peeler?!? Talent, I know.
But that's just the beginning.
I'm a loser because I am not going to post New Years Resolutions. Nope. You won't see any from me.

Until next week ;)

Of course I have resolutions that I will stick to ~~probably not~~. But our anniversary is on Saturday and I want to be able to enjoy the weekend, food, and fun without feeling guilty about it later.
Come January 9th, I'll be ready to share my goals and aspirations for the new year. And I'm hoping that blogging about them (and updating my progress) will help keep me accountable. I'm really excited for this year and what it has in store for me and my lil family. I'm determined to make 2012 the year that I stick to my guns and see these resolutions through.

Bling Bling

2012-01-03T21:52:00.002-05:00

I am so jumping on this bandwagon!!! CMae is hosting a fun link up! We're showing off our bling and it's so appropriate since the Hubs and I's 6th Anniversary is on Saturday!!!

The Hubs gave this pretty little thing to me on December 16, 2004 (after the worst proposal on the face of the planet). It's exactly what I always wanted but nothing like I wanted at the same time. But one day, my mom and I were out shopping and went looking for rings. I saw it and fell in love. Called the Hubs to tell him about it and we were looking at it the next day (so he would know exactly what to buy). He was totally down with that plan since it took the stress off of him and I was cool with it because I loved it! Sometimes I wonder what the Hubs would have picked out if he had made the decision all on his own. I'm sure he would have done a great job but I LOVE my ring!!!

About the ring
It's not huge at all. I think it's maybe 1/2 carat total, if that. I have fairly small hands and pretty skinny fingers (the only thing skinny on me) so I didn't want anything too overpowering. I think this one is the perfect size for me (although I'm not against an upgrade!!!)

This was pretty hard writing this post tonight. Me and the vegetable peeler had a little fight and the peeler won. My poor finger tip is missing part of the top. I'm sure I'll update more tomorrow on my finger status. I'm hoping it holds up for work tomorrow.

Goodbye 2011....Hello 2012!!!

2011-12-31T22:16:00.002-05:00

I can't believe this year is over already. I feel like time is racing past us. It feels like yesterday I was walking down the aisle. Now I'm a Mom of 2 kiddos and married for 6 years (or will be 6 years in 1 week). How did this happen??

This year was a great one for us, filled with tons of memories. And in true Jessica fashion, let's recap the year in pictures!!!
We started the year with Noah turned 4 and had his first birthday celebration at school. We also celebrated him with a Toy Story birthday party and a trip to Disney

February brought the Disney Princess Half Marathon. Sharon and I ran it again for the second year

March brought the Strawberry Festival and Lady Antebellum with the girls and the Seminole PowWow parade and carnival

We had so much fun in April. I attempted to make cake pops and it was an epic FAIL. We also spent the day with Thomas the Train. I ran the Iron Girl 5K with Jess and we had a great Easter

May meant Mother's Day Tea at PreK, Rays Baseball, and celebrating the Hubs's birthday at Disney

Noah said goodbye to his classmates and 5th grade buddy as his first year of PreK ended. We spent fun nights with friends and celebrated weddings!

July we honored my life long friend Jen and her baby to be Colton. I also had a great reunion with my amazing Chi Omega sisters

August was a busy month for us. The Hubs and I took a trip to NYC where we took in all the sights, went to see RENT, and much more. Emmy turned 2 and we had a Little Mermaid party and Noah returned to school for his second year of PreK

September brought sorrow and heartbreak when we said goodbye to my grandfather. It was a very hard time for me and I miss him every day

October brought us trips to Disney, meeting princesses, celebrating more weddings, and Halloween at work and with the kids

November we gave thanks for our family and friends. We traveled down south to meet Colton. I am a very proud Aunt!!! We also enjoyed college football, supporting the USF Bulls and the Florida Gators. Jen and Jeff even snuck away from sweet Colton to go up to Gainesville!

And of course, December brought us Christmas. We had a great Christmas, celebrating 4 times with family.

2011 was a year full of ups and downs for our family. We made so many memories and experienced so much. I am so blessed to have the most amazing people in my life. I'm also thankful for all of you, who encourage me to keep doing what I love, sharing my life.

Here's to 2012, a new year full of friendships, family, health, laughter, and love.

It's OK

2011-12-29T21:23:00.000-05:00

This has been a ridiculously crazy-busy week at work. I know we're cramming 5 days worth of clinic appointments into 4 days but I feel like this has been the worst 4 day week in a while. My 9.5 hour day turned into almost 12. I haven't done 12 hr shifts since April. I'm seriously out of practice when it comes to that schedule. So I think it might be an early bed time for me {probably not since I'll end up ~~stalking~~ reading blogs all night}

I'm going to take a break from Christmas updates {I have to share what I got with all of you!!!} to link up with Amber and Neely.

It's OK.....
~to dread packing up all the Christmas decorations
~to secretly be counting down the days until Noah goes back to school. He sure is a hyper kiddo and school really tires him out. I'm ready for a break from nonstop motion {does that make me a bad Mommy?}
~to be digging this Zumba DVD that I ~~stole~~ borrowed from my mom
~that I look like a crazy white girl trying to be Latin while I'm doing Zumba in my living room
~that I'm obsessed with Shutterfly, as evidenced by the amount of gift certificates I got to use there
~to not be OK with this wishy-washy weather we're having here. One day its 80 degrees, the next it's 45. I mean, come on. It's Florida for crying out loud. Can't we just have steady 60 degree weather?!?
~to be so determined this year to stick to my NY resolutions
~to make 2012 the best year ever!!!!

Give me strength to get through tomorrow. Then its 4 days off!!!!

Christmas Kiddos

2011-12-28T22:30:00.001-05:00

After sharing the awesome job that the Hubs did with my gift, I guess I should share with you what I got the Hubs. When we went up to Gainesville for the UF/FSU game, he found a polo shirt that he really liked (I did too). Nike golf polos are crazy expensive but it wasn't like any Gator shirt I've ever seen....and trust me....I've seen A LOT.....so I told him to get it if he really wanted it and that would be his Christmas present. So he did and that's what he got. I wish I could find a picture of it to show you but I can't find one.

Now on the the fun stuff.....the kiddos at Christmas. Every year, Christmas keeps getting better and better. I don't know if it's because the kids are getting older and sort of get the whole Christmas festivities or if it's because the kids are at such a fun age right now. Either way, it was awesome. I'll spare you the details for tonight (I'm really tired) by posting some pics (photo overload) from Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Em giving Selah a kiss

Whenever he'd open a gift and it was a shirt box, he'd yell "I got a box!!!"

Em not so patiently waiting for my dad to open up her iXL

So excited to get this present from Grandma and PaPa

Putting out reindeer food in their matching pj's (yes I'm that kind of mom)

Santa's elves (the Hubs and my brothers) building all the gifts

Chirstmas morning....oh wait....that's the shirt I got the Hubs for Christmas!!!

My handsome boy (with his irritating scrape on his forehead)

My MIL made Em this Belle dress. It has been worn every day since

Rudolph!!!

He was so excited to see Santa brought him a bike

Santa also brought Em a new ride!

Riding his new Transformers bike

All in all, it was a great Christmas. We were fortunate enough to spend time with family and friends (and celebrate on 4 separate occasions). I can't imagine anything better.

The one about the Hubs

2011-12-27T15:58:00.001-05:00

Let me just start by saying my Hubs is A.W.E.S.O.M.E.
He truly outdid himself this year when it came to Christmas. Let's be honest why don't we. He's not very good when it comes to romantic stuff. As in, he's anti-romantic. He's not one to buy me flowers or leave me notes or anything. His proposal might be the worst proposal on the face of the planet (it says a lot that I even said yes to it). That's why this is HUGE!!
As you may have read before, I was seriously wanting some Tory Burch under the tree this year. I love the Reva ballet flats. I imagined my feet in them this year for Christmas although I knew that image would never happen in real life. They're a little more of a splurge than I'm willing to handle. So I loved them from afar.
So Friday night, the Hubs said to me "Do me a favor and don't check the account until after Christmas. I bought your present and if you look, it will ruin it." I assumed that he bought me a Vera bag like usual. I even said to him "Oh I guess you went to Marions." So it took an act of God, but I didn't look (I'm bad with surprises)
Saturday afternoon, before our Christmas festivities began, he let Noah give me his present. He had me stumped by the size of the box and the fact that he wrapped it himself. He usually lets Marions wrap it. So I really didn't know what I was opening. Noah was helping me unwrap it and I opened the box to find a new Vera Bradley Hipster in one of the new patterns. I really love the bag. But it felt rather heavy so I looked inside and what did I find staring back at me??? The ballet flats I've been wanting!!!!
Never in a million years did I expect that the Hubs would actually get them for me! He religiously reads this little ol' blog and noticed that I mentioned wanting them, oh like a million times. And, according to him, I don't ask for things that often (which is totally true) so he wanted me to have something I truly wanted. How amazing?!?!? I can't begin to describe how ecstatic I am. It truly was one of the best surprises he's ever given me and it's a gift that I really love!

SWOON!!!!!!

Thank you Hubs for such a wonderful gift! You really are something else!!!

Merry Christmas!!!!

2011-12-25T22:13:00.000-05:00

I hope everyone had an amazing and blessed Christmas today. We had a great weekend full of family, friends, and fun. Only 2 more Christmas celebrations left for us. I have so much to share. Like how AWESOME the Hubs is (like so awesome he gets his own post!!!!) and how excited the kiddos were. But until then, here is just a glimpse at some of the happiness of the weekend

My MIL made Em this adorable Belle dress. She hasn't taken it off yet

This is when Noah saw his Optimus Prime bike that Santa brought him

Merry Christmas!!!

What a week....

2011-12-23T01:45:00.000-05:00

Things have been so crazy for me right now. Monday we got a call saying my grandmother, who had been in the hospital, was being transferred to ICU and was put on a ventilator. So we all rushed up there (my grandparents live 2 hours away) to learn that they had to do CPR to bring her back and that her lungs filled up with fluid. Being in a situation like that is so hard for me because it's instinct to jump right into nursing mode the minute I walk on to an inpatient unit rather than being a scared, nervous family member. Maybe it's a coping strategy. I don't really know. But needless to say, it's been a rough week. I am excited to say that she was extubated on Tuesday and doing pretty good. She still has some fluid in her lungs but her heart seems to be hanging in there.

So if you don't mind, can you keep my grandma and my family in your prayers, especially as Christmas draws near? It would really mean the world to me.

This Christmas season I have really experienced how amazing the Blogging Community is. Whether it be through Christmas card exchanges, ornament swaps, or just amazing sweet comments, I really feel a part of this crazy world of blogging. I received the best Christmas cards from my amazing card swap girlies (and I hope they feel the same way!!!).

I also got paired with a pretty awesome chica named Ashley for our Ornament Swap. She is super cute and just ran a half marathon (I still say you should come to St Pete and run with me!!!)

How cute is she??? And check out that scenery...jealous!!!

She sent me the best ornaments. Much like me, she couldn't decide on just 1. I got 3!!! (I sent her 3 ornaments too!) They will be a great addition to my ornament collection and I'm so excited to always have something to remind me of Ashley for years to come.

Can you see me?!?!

I love the colors, the sparkle factor, all of it!!! Thank you so much Ashley for sending me amazing ornaments!!! I absolutely adore them!!!

Now that I'm looking at only 3ish hours of sleep before getting up for work (and after making 17 containers of Peppermint Sugar Scrub), it's time to hit the sack.
Happy Friday everyone!!!!

Friday Funnies

2011-12-16T21:19:00.000-05:00

Before I go to bed (yes I know it's only 9pm but I have a raging headache going on), I had to share a few random quotes from my kiddos. Noah will be 5 in January and Emmy is 2. The things they come up with is unreal!!!

A few days ago we were at dinner at Red Lobster. Noah says "When I get older I want to be fat like Daddy so I can eat nachos." The poor kid thinks he has to be old and fat to enjoy nachos. He doesn't even like nachos.

He also told the Hubs's mom "You're not fat like Daddy. You're just old."

Tonight, Em was avoiding eating dinner by playing with the creepy, singing angel my mom gave me last year (it was her's but Em loved is so she gave it to us...it's down right creepy). She decides she needs an angel dress so I got up to get a dress out of her room and she went hysterical crying because she wanted to go to the garage. When I came out of her room with her poofy white dress, she squealed in excitement, wiped her eyes, and said "I not crying anymore" and life was good. She then danced in circles for the next 15 minutes before saying to the Hubs "Dance for me." She's so bossy but so cute!!!

This one happened last year but Noah was talking with a girl in his class who I think he has a little (huge) crush on. I don't know what was said first but it ended with Noah saying "Your butt's bigger than mine." In true girl-fashion, she cried. He was only 4 and already making girls cry.

Man do I love those 2!!!!

And since I can't stand posting without a picture:

Me and the Hubs at the UF/FSU game

Have a great weekend!!! I'm going to catch up on some sleep, finish shopping and wrapping, and hopefully catch up on some blogging. I've realized that I still have to talk about our trip to the Swamp and finish up our Disney trip

It's OK

2011-12-15T23:13:00.001-05:00

Man, have I been a blogging slacker. I have so much to share with you and for some reason, I just can't find the time to get it done. Have no fear my friends. I will catch you up on all things Crimella very soon. Tonight we went to Noah's Christmas performance and let me just tell you, Noah was absolutely adorable! The PreK did a Nativity play along with singing Jingle Bells. Noah was Joseph and he was amazing!

The best looking Joseph I've ever seen!!!

The PreK Nativity

It's Thursday again so that means only 1 thing...."It's OK" Thursdays with Amber and Neely!!! I really do love this link up.
It's OK....
~to love your kids so much you want to burst
~to constantly feel like you're running 5 hours behind
!to wish there were 30 hours in a day
~to not have a single gift wrapped yet
~to dread going back to work tomorrow because that means tons of charting that has to be done that wasn't completed today
~to eat Twizzlers for breakfast one day this week....hey...they're low fat!
~to be constantly reminded of how rewarding my job is
~to have the best patients in the world! No matter how much they're going through, they always seem to find ways to let me know I'm doing a great job
~to miss my angel Blake the same today as I did the day he was called home a year ago

I love you Blake and miss you like crazy every day. Thank you for teaching me so much about life

Hope everyone has a great Friday!!!

Is it so wrong....

2011-12-13T16:37:00.000-05:00

That I can't wait until December 20th because of this???

Where Dreams Come True

2011-12-12T22:28:00.000-05:00

This definitely is the case! We went to Disney (again) this past weekend with the Hubs's family. That included his mom and step-dad, his brother/sister-in-law/our nephew, his step-brother/fiancee, the Hubs's best friend/his wife/their 2 kids/plus her dad and mom, and the 4 of us. That's 17 people in all folks. I bet you can picture what dinner looked like. Oh and all 5 kids were under the age of 5.
I found a great resort on Orbitz (anyone looking to stay in Orlando should definitely check out Orange Lake Resort....AWESOME place to stay....more on that later). We all decided to head up Friday night so we'd already be checked in for Saturday...aka....we could go back to the hotel for naptime. The place was amazing. We had a 2 bedroom villa and a 3 bedroom villa. Each room had it's own bathroom and each villa was fully equipped with a full kitchen and all the dishes/baking dishes/pots/pans, etc, you would ever need to actually cook there, plus a washer and dryer. We opted to stay with the Hubs's best friend's family because our boys are about the same age and best buddies. Let me just tell you....the kids were in heaven with all the space to run around and play! I mean check out our room:

But I digress.....
We finally get the kids to bed (way past their bedtimes) and grab a few hours of sleep before making our way to Disney!!! Noah and Randy were surprised to see these 2 dudes just hanging around

We headed to Disney and the fun began! We went in 2 groups: the early crowd (our hotel roomies) and the late crowd (our other group mates). The park opened at 8 so we wanted to be sure to be there. We loaded the kids in the car and headed over. Noah was so excited to have Randy around. He's Noah's best bud in the world. It's cute that they're such good friends since their Daddy's are besties. Plus Noah got to run around Disney with someone other than his baby sister. We took the kiddos on all the great rides: Buzz Lightyear, the Rocket Ships, the race cars, teacups, Peter Pan, Winnie the Pooh, Small World, and so many more. Here's a few pics of the morning...aka...photo overload!!!

Getting ready to hop on the monorail. Em dressed like Jessie from Toy Story all day

Noah's buddy Randy

On the Rocket Ships

The Hubs's best friend and his family

Waiting to drive on the speedway

The Daddy's took all the kiddos on the teacups

Noah tried to remove the Sword in the Stone

So did the Hubs

Em gave it a shot with the help of Noah and Daddy

YEEEE HAWWWWW

I just love when little kids hold hands!!!

And if that wasn't bombardment of photos, here's a few more. Em got to meet Ariel!!!!!!!!

She was super excited but wanted nothing to do with poor Prince Eric. He wasn't allowed to be in any of the pictures. After meeting our fav princess, we headed back to the hotel for lunch and naptime.

Next up....Disney After Dark!!!

We're back!!!

2011-12-11T14:43:00.001-05:00

We're back from one of my all time favorite places on Earth:

I can't believe I took this picture!!! It came out so good!!!

Can I just move into that castle? I'm sure there's an extra room that's empty!!!
Who wouldn't want to spend all their time surrounded in magic and fairy tales???
We had a great time at Disney this weekend and now we're trying to get ready for reality tomorrow.

Wrapping up the week

2011-12-08T22:01:00.001-05:00

After a drastic change in barometric pressure yesterday, I was sidelined all night with a raging migraine. But I woke up feeling much better and ready for the weekend. Tomorrow I'm only working a half day and then it's off to Disney!!! So with that being said, I'm catching up on yesterday's blog challenge and today's!

Yesterday was about Christmas Wish Lists
I'm pretty easy this year. I don't really want too much. I'm asking Santa for:
An Elliptical: This way I can get some training in while the kids are sleeping (I'm not all about going out for a run while the kiddos are in the house napping)
New running shoes: I haven't decided what kind I want. All I know is I need new ones and I should probably get my feet professionally assessed since I have flat feet and over-pronate.
New scrubs: I think I've finally realized that I spend most of my days wearing scrubs at work and that I should probably spend more money on my work wardrobe than my weekend wardrobe. I just hate how expensive they are.
Tory Burch flats: I have been dreaming of...ok drooling over the Tory Burch riding boots (which I'll never own) so I'm hoping that maybe I'll have a pair of flats under the tree this year. I promise I've been good!!!

Today's topic is 2012 Goals/Resolutions
Obviously losing weight is number 1. I had done so well this time last year. I had lost over 20lbs and thought I could keep it off without being on program (oh I do Weight Watchers...a lot) Not only did I gain back the 20lbs, I think I gained a little (a lot) more. I am more motivated than ever to get back on task and back in the saddle.
Improve my marriage. I've written on here before how hard marriage is and how the Hubs and I have had some major ups and downs. It's definitely a priority for me to make this a better year for us.
Be a better Mommy. My kids are growing up right before my eyes and I feel like I haven't been the Mommy they deserve. I'm sure all moms feel that every once and a while but I have a hard time with that. Am I spending enough time with them. Are they watching too much TV. Should I be doing everything differently. All my insecurities lie with my parenting skills.
Baptize Emmy. OMG this is a biggie. She's over 2 and still hasn't been baptized. My goal is to baptize her before Easter. I'm a horrible slacker and I'm sure this makes me the worst Catholic on the planet.
Save. Save. Save. Enough said.
Take my CPHON exam. That way I can become a Certified Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Nurse.
Become a better blogger. I'm loving what blogging has brought to my life. I've met amazing people. I've learned so much. And I've found a great avenue to get things off my chest. I can't wait to see where this takes me.
Appreciate the person that I am. I need to figure out how to be happy in my skin because I've never really been happy with who I am right now.

So.Very.Frustrated

2011-12-06T21:12:00.001-05:00

I am about ready to scream!!!!
I need help
I'm noticing some of the blogs I follow (that I'm recently new to following) are not showing up on my Reading List and they're not even showing up when I go to the Manage Blogs I Follow thingy. But when I go to the specific blogs, I can totally see that I'm following.
Can anyone help me??? Remember, I'm neurotic and this is about to throw me over the ledge.
Thanks!!!

Oh I also just realized I can't see who my new, amazing followers are.
HELP!!!!!

Who do I celebrate the holidays???

2011-12-06T14:12:00.001-05:00

Today was a great day! I got to have coffee with a very good friend (an ex boyfriend). Alan was in town for the St Pete Boat Show and was leaving today. It was nice to catch up with him over a great Peppermint Mocha. I am very fortunate to be very good friends with 2 of my exes. Call me crazy or weird but that's the way it is. The Hubs doesn't get it but they really are 2 of my very close friends. We don't see each other that often so it was a nice way to spend an hour of my morning. Em and I also had to do a little Pampered Chef delivery at work (yes I went in on my day off) and she got to meet all my coworkers. Then we headed over to the unit to see my former coworkers and check in on a few patients. Emmy ended up making friends with one of the patients and we colored and had an impromptu play date for about 15 minutes. Then we headed to have lunch with the Hubs. Now it's nap time for Em (and maybe for Mommy). I also got my Christmas cards in the mail, including cards to my partners for the Card Swap, and shipped my ornament to Ashley, my partner for the Ornament swap!

Today's challenge topic is all about how do you celebrate the holidays
It's simple.
It's all things Christmas!
I completely redecorate the house, even the bathrooms. I stress over our outfits for our family pictures (which we haven't taken yet). I make the Hubs go on the roof and hang the lights (which he hates). Our Christmas cards have to be perfect and I have to send out at least 50 of them. I listen to Christmas music in the car. We have to have the perfect tree with the perfect ornament layout, which isn't happening this year since the kids helped so much with the tree. The ornaments are all over the place, which stresses me out every time I look at it, but I'm dealing with it (not really) since Noah is so proud of his tree decorating. All the presents are wrapped with the specific wrapping paper of the year. The kids paper always goes with the theme of their gifts and they each get their own paper, that way it's easy to spot who's gift is who's. I'm neurotic but I'm okay with that!!!
Every Christmas Eve, we have a huge family party. There's always too much food but we can't cut anything off the menu since it's tradition to have the same foods. We have a gift exchange and then we head home so Santa can arrive. On Christmas morning, all of our parents and siblings and their significant others, come to the house to watch the kids open up their Santa gifts and we have our gift exchange. Then we spend the rest of the day playing. It's the exact same way I grew up celebrating Christmas and I wouldn't change it ever!!!

How do you spend your holidays??? Link up with Amber and Neely and share it with us!!!

A Walk in the Park

2011-12-05T23:50:00.001-05:00

It was such a nice weekend for us here at the Crimella house. Saturday we finished up our Christmas light display and then rested for the remainder of the day. Sunday we went to church for the first time in a long time. I'm ashamed to say how long it's been since we were there. But we went and the kids were amazing! It always makes Mass that much better when the kids are on their best behavior. Then we hit up the park to ride on the train. Largo Central Park does a train ride on the first weekend of the month. It was a cute 10 minute ride and our train nut just loved it! I'm not sure how much Em liked it but Noah loved it!!! Then it was off to the playground. We checked out the Botanical Garden's light display that night. All in all, great weekend!!!

At the top of the mountain

It's over exposed but I love her face in this one!!!

Today's Holiday Blog Challenge topic is Christmas dessert/treat recipe
This one is a Go-To recipe for me when it comes to gifts. I made them for Christmas gifts 2 years ago and then made them for the teachers at Noah's school last year during Teacher Week. I found it in a Taste of Home cookbook. You can find it here.
Mocha Truffles

Ingredients

2 packages (12 ounces each) semisweet chocolate chips
1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened
3 tablespoons instant coffee granules
2 teaspoons water
1 pound dark chocolate candy coating, coarsely chopped
White candy coating, optional

Directions

In a microwave-safe bowl, melt chocolate chips; stir until smooth. Beat in cream cheese. Dissolve coffee in water; add to cream cheese and beat until smooth.
Chill until firm enough to shape. Shape into 1-in. balls and place on waxed paper-lined baking sheet. Chill for 1-2 hours or until firm.
In a microwave, melt chocolate coating; stir until smooth. Dip balls in chocolate; allow excess to drip off. Place on waxed paper; let stand until set. Melt white coating and drizzle over truffles if desired. Yield: about 5-1/2 dozen.

Totally easy and definitely worth the calories!!!

TGIF

2011-12-02T20:33:00.001-05:00

I am so glad it's Friday! Work week is done. Time to play with the fam. My living room has been invaded by my Pampered Chef items (and the items that all my amazing friends purchased) so tonight I'm going to work on that. Tomorrow we're headed to the park to catch a ride on the little train and then we're finishing up our Christmas tree and decorations. I'm hoping to catch a nap somewhere in there too.

Today's Holiday Blog Challenge topic is Ideal outfit for Christmas/NYE

This one is tough for me because I have nothing in mind this year. It bothers me a little but I'm ok with it. I love dressing up so I'm sure I'll be in a dress of some sort with my fabulous red heels. But other than that, I've got nothing. I'm also not a big NYE person. We usually don't go out at all. Actually, I've always worked NYE/NY Day. It's never bothered me that we don't have some fancy plan for that night. You're probably thinking that I'm so BORING. I am but that's ok. Hope ya'll still like me!!!
But if I were to go out, I know that there would be sparkles of some sort involved. Whether it be glittered heels or a sparkly skirt, I know for a fact this girl would be sparkling like Edward in sunlight!

Sorry...got lost in that visual for a moment (Edward...not me). Back to reality......

Since this is such a boring post, I thought I'd share another Chippy the Elf picture. We've established that Chippy definitely comes to life when no one's home because Noah left a gummy bear in front of him before school and when he got home, it was gone (or eaten). All signs point to Chippy and not the gummy bear breath I had!!! I just love how excited he is about this silly Elf!!!

Just hanging around

He's so cute but so creepy!!! I always imagine this thing coming to life, coming to the side of my bed while I'm sleeping and rubbing my face.....CREEPY!!!!

Hope everyone has a great weekend!!!

Special Teams Coaches Inquire Here

2011-12-01T20:46:00.001-05:00

Well I'm officially depressed by my football team. Why can't USF actually play decent football on both sides of the ball??? It doesn't work when your defense is really good, your offense is mediocre, and your special teams is HORRIBLE. I'm hoping we can pull off a big win over West Virginia tonight so we can become bowl eligible (such a sad statement...we're not even bowl eligible yet. Yep...we're that bad this year). It's a sad, sad season. For Reals....and if that's not depressing enough, I've had 2 sweet patients relapse this week. Cancer sucks big time. And it sucks even more in kiddos.

But here's something that makes me happy....Christmas Movies!!! Today's topic is all about holiday movies. Wait...you're not linking up with Amber and Neely?!?! You should!!!! It's the coolest (said in my very best Billy Madison voice)

Hands down, the best Christmas movie is Love Actually. The airport scene at the end. The adorable boy pining over his classmate. Falling in love in a foreign country. Absolutely amazing!!! I could watch it a million times in a row.

And to make it even better, the Hubs loves it too. We just love it when it comes on.
What's your favorite holiday movie???
Have a great Friday everyone!!!

Holiday Blog Challenge Day 3

2011-11-30T21:07:00.001-05:00

Let me just tell you how much I wanted to go back to work today after a great 6 days off....um yeah....not at all. I really need to hit the lotto or something so this girl can stay at home on a daily basis. That would be the life. But I digress....

Today's theme for the Holiday Blog Challenge goes along with everything we've been doing tonight (we started to decorate our Christmas tree). Today is all about Holiday Decor.
I live for Christmas time. It really is my favorite time of year. I get excited when Christmas decorations are sneaking in at Target while the Halloween costumes are still out. I'm not mad that Christmas music was being played on the radio a few days before Thanksgiving. Yes. I'm one of those people. So of course Christmas is one of the only holidays I actually decorate the house for. The Hubs hates Christmas but is nice enough to put on a happy face and get on the roof to put the lights on the house. He also lets me add a new little something to our outside decor every year. This year it was a set of 3 lighted gift boxes for the yard!!!
When it comes to Christmas, I collect snowmen and Nativity scenes. I think I gravitated towards snowmen because my Mom decorates in all Santa's. I don't know where I got my Nativity scene obsession. I still have my very first scene that I used to put out in my bedroom when I lived at my parents. My collection now includes the Willow Tree Nativity, my all time favorite, all the way to the Little People Nativity (and I did not buy it for my kids). This weekend, I'll have everything set up and I'm sure I'll post a pic or twelve!
I just can't wait for my newest Christmas decor craft. I'm not going to blab what it is until it's completed but all I can say is acrylic paint, empty Wallflower plug ins, and apothecary jars!!!
Here's a few pics of some of our decor from years past

Some of the snowmen in our old entertainment center (I think in 2009)

My favorite, courtesy of my Momma

My first ever Nativity Scene

Yes, I got very excited when I saw this in the stores!!!

Hope all of you are having a great time decorating for the holidays!!!

Holiday Challenge Day 2

2011-11-29T09:22:00.001-05:00

I am so excited to say that I am thisclose to being done with my Christmas gifts. Santa's been done with the kiddos for a while now, even though this Elf keeps adding more to the loot. I spoil them. I can't help it. I'm finishing up the Grandparents gifts today, getting them ordered, and will patiently await that bright orange package that Shutterfly will send me. Honestly, I think they know my address by heart now. 2 weeks ago, I got a delivery from them 4 times in one week. I'm anticipating another delivery in a few days with the last one to show up next week. What can I say? I might have a problem!!!

Now on to Day 2 of the Fabulous Holiday Blog Challenge.
Today's topic....Fav Holiday Tradition, old or new

I've grown up loving this time of year. My mom always had the house decorated to the max. Christmas music was always on. My most favorite tradition, that continues on to this day, is that we all gather together as a family on Christmas Eve. Growing up, the Christmas Eve party was always at our house. We would all go to Mass, then come back to the house. We would have tons of food (and the same foods all the time....people live for Christmas Eve and my mom's beer meatballs and hot dogs in mustard/grape jelly), and pass out the gifts and open them up with everyone watching. Sometimes, my cousins would spend the night and Santa would bring all of their presents to our house. Now that we're all grown, the big Christmas Eve party has been moved to my house. I love entertaining in general but hosting the family Christmas Eve party is something I've always dreamed of doing. It's an honor that's been passed down to me and I try to make it as great as I remember it being growing up.

Now that I have my own family, the Hubs and I wanted to start some traditions of our own. We have all the grandparents over Christmas morning to watch the kiddos open up their Santa gifts. We have a huge breakfast and then the kids get to play with their new toys for the rest of the day. This year, we added a new tradition that I've been wanting to do for 2 years now. This is the newest addition to our family:

Meet Chippy, the Elf on our Shelf

The Hubs is creeped out by this little guy. I think he's adorable! But the Hubs is also deathly afraid of lawn gnomes so I guess it makes sense (and gives me so many devious plans to freak him out!). Noah just adores Chippy and every morning, he gets up, checks to see if he traveled to the North Pole to check in with Santa. Then its time to find out where he landed (aka where I hid him). It's a fun thing for all of us to do together. As much as it freaks out the Hubs, I know he loves how excited Noah is about it. Noah even called him yesterday morning to let him know that Chippy went to the North Pole. I mean how much cuter does it get?!?! I've been taking pictures of Chippy's daily landing spots and I'm planning on printing them out and putting them in an album every year. I have so many plans for when it's time for him to return to the North Pole for the year. I'm thinking postcards from vacation spots, friendly updates, birthday cards. The possibilities are endless!!!

Don't forget to share your traditions and link up with Amber and Neely!!!

Fab Holiday Blog Challenge Day 1

2011-11-28T19:56:00.001-05:00

2 posts in one day?!?!? There are some weeks where I can't even post twice in 7 days! Take that Hubs (he told me I was the worst blogger ever at dinner tonight) This is y'all's lucky day (Did I just make that word up?) The brilliant minds behind Brunch with Amber and A Complete Waste of Makeup came up with another awesome blog challenge all about my favorite time of year!!!

Day 1: Fav gift received for Christmas
I'm going to cheat a little because I got my favorite gift a week before Christmas in 2004. I was presented with this sweet number by the soon to be Hubs:

Granted the actual engagement ring part was just the center stone and the band with diamonds. The 6 diamonds around the center stone are part of my wedding band but you get the idea

Now the proposal itself was less than exciting (worst proposal ever) but I love my ring so it makes up for it (not really).
Love you Hubs!!!!

What a weekend....

2011-11-28T10:56:00.001-05:00

I hope everyone had a great Thanksgiving! I know I did. Our Thanksgiving involved me not cooking ANYTHING! My sweet mother did all the cooking. We all went to my parents this year (we're usually at John's dad's...well not me...I usually work Thanksgiving) to spend our first Thanksgiving together without my Grandpa. My grandma did rather well I must say. It was a little hard for me but I didn't let anyone see that. We feasted on turkey, stuffing, veggies, fruit salad, and squash casserole. Let me just say....my pants had to be unbuttoned, and not because my post-"rip your gallbladder out of your belly button"-inability to wear buttoned pants for long periods of time. I ate that much. Then came dessert....homemade pecan pie (my fav) and a bunch of others. Then I watched the NFL for the first time this season. All in all, great Thanksgiving!

Who did Black Friday shopping??? I did!!! I decided to hit up Bealls at midnight so I could pick up a new UF shirt for the game on Saturday. I think stores opening at midnight meant more people shopped since they didn't have to wake up at the butt crack of dawn. I've never seen so many people at Bealls in my life. But I got my shirt, refrained from buying more USF goodies, and headed back home for a quick 2 hour nap before round 2. I was at Mom's at 3:30am so we could head to the mall for an amazing deal on boots. $120 boots for $30....yes please!!! JCPenney's shoe department was a zoo and I found a pair of boots that I liked. We headed to the checkout line and it was like the heavens opened. The most amazing boots!!! Out of line we went, found a cute holiday saleswomen, and the ultimate pair of boots were mine!!! I did pay $40 but still...they were originally $120. Happy Black Friday to me!!! A quick trip to Old Navy for the perfect pair of jeans for my boots and a pit stop for a Peppermint Mocha and this girl was a happy camper!!! We headed home so I could get another 2 hour nap before having to wake up to go to the USF game that started at 11am (who starts a game at 11am on Black Friday???)

The Hubs likes to call this weekend the Ultimate College Football weekend. He lives for college football. We went to 2 games in 2 days. Almost the best weekend in his life. A few years ago, he and a buddy went a UF game then drove back to Tampa to make the USF game by kickoff at 7:30. 2 games in 1 day....the Ultimate Day in College Football History...I think that's what he calls it. But anywho....USF has had a rough time this year in the Big East (that's as nice as I can put it....I'm so disappointed this season) but I thought Friday would be different. But it wasn't. The Bulls were leading the whole first half and gave the game away in the second half. So the Hubs and I left with a few minutes left in the 3rd, grabbed lunch at Cheesecake Factory and watched the end of the game on our phones.

The Hubs even wore green!!!

Go Bulls!!! Yes the stadium was that empty...sad I know

Red Velvet Cake Cheesecake....this is how I drowned my sorrows after the game

Next up....our day in the Swamp!!!

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-24T08:51:00.001-05:00

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! When November rolled around, I had planned on doing my daily "I'm thankful for..." like I did on FB last year but I was way too busy to even blog very much. So instead, I'll take the opportunity today, on Thanksgiving, to recognize everyone and everything that I'm thankful for.

I'm thankful for....
~My kids. Noah and Emmy are the 2 greatest blessings in my life. While there are times (a lot of times) that I question how good of a Mom I'm being or how on Earth I was allowed to have children, I cannot imagine my life without them. They are the reasons I get up every morning.
~The Hubs. We've had our ups and downs but through it all, we've hung in there and made an amazing life together. He's the best Daddy to our kids. He's my best friend. He's wonderful. I love you!!!
~My family. I have the best family, hands down. My mom is my best friend. My dad is amazing. My brothers are great (don't tell them I actually said that!) and their girlfriends are amazing women. I don't know how many families can still sit around a dinner table for hours, talking and laughing about anything and everything, and truly enjoy it.
~Health. The health of my children and my health. Working in oncology like I do, I've seen the worst of things. It's also turned me into a crazy person because every leg pain or additional bruise my kids have automatically sends me spiraling down thinking they have leukemia....true story...my pediatrician thinks I'm crazy. Every day I'm surrounded by families who have been rocked by a cancer diagnosis and every day, I thank the Lord that the Hubs and I are not in their shoes. We have 2 healthy children. It's a blessing in itself.
~My job. While we're talking about cancer, let's just say I love my job. I never wanted to be in oncology but stumbled into it and fell in love. It is the most rewarding work I've ever done. But it's also the hardest. No matter how hard I try, I can't help but fall in love with my patients. I know that makes me a better nurse to them. But it also makes me hurt with the families when the patients don't fare so well. To all my angels, thank you for everything you've done for me!

I hope everyone has a great day! Enjoy the parade (I have it on right now). Eat lots of turkey. But most of all, give thanks!

Why do I have to wait?!?!?!

2011-11-21T21:32:00.001-05:00

Really?!?

November 16, 2012?!?

Why do I have to wait an entire year for part 2:

It's Ok

2011-11-17T23:54:00.001-05:00

I can't believe Thanksgiving is next week. Where has this year gone? Pretty soon I'm going to wake up and my kids will be graduating high school. Ok that just depressed me. Time to cheer me up. I've got so much going on this weekend! Tomorrow is a VERY busy clinic day followed by my Pampered Chef party. Then I'm getting up pretty early to volunteer for the Women's Running Half Marathon Expo. I ran the 5K last year and had every intention of doing the half this year but my gallbladder had other plans for me. But I think volunteering will be a blast. I'm almost positive I'm handing out goody bags but I could be wrong. Then we have to rush to figure out outfits for our Christmas pictures that are being done Sunday morning. Whew...that is a lot! Welcome to my weekend every weekend. There are so many things to accomplish and such little time. Oh well. Maybe I'll just eat another pina colada cupcake that I made for the party tomorrow night.
On to today's order of business.....linking up with Amber and Neely for "It's OK" Thursday!

It's OK.....
~to be obsessed with Shutterfly. Tonight is the first night this week that I haven't logged on (not that I haven't thought about it). I have ordered something almost every day and almost all of it has been free. I just love getting the orange packages in the mail!
~to continue to drink skinny Peppermint Mochas like they're going out of style
~to be in love with the cupcakes I made tonight
~to finally be able to be excited for Thanksgiving because that means I finally don't have to work on a holiday!!!
~to have a jammed packed social calendar through about February
~to have a HUGE container of freshly made sangria in my fridge that I haven't touched yet.
~to be mad that I'm starting to get sick (thanks to my kids or was it the patient that kept coughing all over us while we drew labs...I'm not sure)
~to be done with my Santa shopping for the kiddos!!! This one I'm most proud of because it all came from toysrus.com!!!

Have a great Friday and a great weekend!!!

Photography

2011-11-14T22:43:00.001-05:00

I love photography. I love taking pictures. I always have my camera on me. I love being able to capture my life (and my kids's lives) on my memory card (I kinda miss having real film). I've always been fascinated by the art of photography. My dad is a pretty good photographer, as in he's real good. Growing up, our upstairs bathroom was a dark room for a while. Then he stopped working on it and life got in the way I guess. Now that I have kids, my fascination with photography has heightened.
The Hubs recently coordinated my favorite birthday present ever, my new camera. He got everyone in on it so I could have it. I was torn between a DSLR and a fancy point and shoot with all the qualities of a DSLR. I ended up choosing a fancy point and shoot (Canon PowerShot SX30IS). I love it to pieces. I mean LOVE. I'm doing online searches for cute camera straps and camera bags. I lug it around everywhere, even though I'm known to have cameras small enough to slip in my back pocket. But you know what....no matter how much I might look like I know what I'm doing, I have NO CLUE how to use my camera or maximize it to it's potential.
Devastating, I know.
My dad was nice enough to try to explain things to me. He's even willing to work with me to get basic photography down. He saw the pictures that we had done of the kiddos and said to me....you can take pictures like these. That is what I want. I want to have the knowledge and skill to take amazing pictures. Do I want to have my own photography business? No. Do I want to take professional quality pics? Absolutely. That is the ultimate goal.
So I've done some googling (Google is my BFF....for reals) and stumbled across a 31 day project on taking a better photo. It's all about learning the camera, learning the basics, and taking it one step at a time. I think it's just what I need (besides a translator for my camera manual...have you ever read one? Impossible to understand).
So here's to struggling with my camera. To feeling like I'm dumb for getting confused on what each number and dial means. To getting frustrated with every blurry picture, every horribly lit picture, until I get the one perfect picture. To that one perfect picture becoming the way my pictures turn out on a regular basis.

Oh and if anyone has any helpful tips, suggestions, websites I can check out, feel free to send them my way. I need all the help I can get!

What my day was made of

2011-11-13T01:14:00.001-05:00

I got so much accomplished today!!! The Hubs might disagree but we all know that the Hubs and I have different priorities ;) I am so excited about all the fun stuff I did!

Today I....
~ordered our Christmas cards!!! I am so excited about them. Usually we go to the photo studio and get family holiday pictures done but I am so in love with the pictures that we had done of the kids that I decided to use those for our cards. The cards turned out amazing! Shutterfly has the best cards and is so easy to use! It also helped that they're offering free shipping on orders $30+ and 40% off cards right now. I had received a few codes for 5 free cards so I cashed in 2 of those plus used the code on their site for 1 free card. Not too shabby!

~ordered 200 photo prints...for free. I think I'm the queen of free products, although I can't take credit for knowing about the offers. I have to thank my friend at Saving Said Simply for the tip. Check out her blog and her Facebook page. She shares amazing deals every day! Plus I know her. She's amazing. You really should check her out.

~ordered New Years Cards. Yes I received another code for 10 free cards (I had 2 of them). Thanks SSS!!!

~did all my Santa shopping!!! This is a HUGE deal. Every year the Hubs and I brave Toys R Us to do Santa shopping for the kiddos. This year, the Hubs has been doing a bit of online shopping and found an amazing deal on the My First Disney Princess Carriage Playcenter that we had planned on getting Emmy. This sparked us to just shop on Toys R Us's website for almost all of our gifts. They're offering free shipping (up to $20) but also offer in-store pick up. So anything we could pick up at our local store is being sent there and the 3 things that had to be shipped fell well below the $20 limit so shipping was free! As much as I secretly love the thrill and commotion of braving TRU during the holiday season, there's something calming about knowing that's not in our future (until I realize we need to buy more things). It's also a great feeling to be done with shopping and only have to get gifts for a few more people.
~got some of my housework done. The laundry finally got folded (I'm really bad at folding it...remember this post???) and it will get put away tomorrow. We also got our grocery shopping done for the week.

Now I guess I'll have to go to bed since I stayed up WAY too late playing on Shutterfly. But because I don't like leaving a post picture-less (if I can help it), here's a few more pictures from our amazing photo session with Jamie Lewis Photography!

Love this one (even if I think Em's face looks fat!)

Again, this picture was not staged. Noah was very loving to his sister that day

Melt my heart right now! Adore this picture (and his hair isn't red....i just looks like it in this pic)

I love that the orange/grapefruit trees are in the pictures...very appropriate for my family

Hope everyone has a great Sunday!!!

****I 100% love Shutterly and it's products. I was not compensated at all for this post. I just received some amazing deals today that I wanted to share with you. I would, however, love to be a Shutterfly spokesperson because I do love them so much!!!****

It's OK

2011-11-10T21:39:00.001-05:00

Today has been such a great day! My clinic was so much smoother than I expected. I got out of work 1.5 hours earlier than I thought I would. I got to see some of my favorite patients. And I got to spend the evening with my family. What could be better than that?!?! Well sleeping for 3 days straight might be a little better but that's never going to happen ;)

This whole daylight savings time stuff is really messing with me. I do NOT enjoy waking up and it being bright as day out and I definitely DO NOT like driving home in the dark. I enjoy walking out of clinic and it still be light out. Now I feel like I'm running late all the time and that I'm staying at work too long since it's dark out. I will say though, I'm feeling better every morning. I'm not as tired. I don't know if it has to do with the fact that I'm out in the sunshine so early in the morning or if it's because I'm just crazy and have tricked myself into thinking I'm feeling better. Either way, I'm functioning a lot better on less sleep now that its bright out. We'll see how long this lasts.

It's Thursday so it's time for "It's OK" Thursdays with Amber and Neely.

It's OK.....
~to be craving a Peppermint Mocha (all day, every day). I'm counting down the minutes until I hit up my Starbucks in the AM and they hand me happiness in a red cup
~to have entertained the idea of staying home from work today just so I could attend the grand opening of H&M at International Plaza. I went to work like a good girl but really wish I was at the mall
~to tell my kids that it's not "awake time" unless the sun is completely up and shining (read: Mommy gets a few extra minutes of sleep). This is where daylight savings time is screwing me over
~to be taking advantage of every free print code I can find for pictures
~to be in dire need for holiday scrub tops
~to be lusting over these beauties. I think my feet/legs would look stellar in these boots!
~to be a grown adult and be just as excited for the newest Twilight movie as any other crazy, obsessed adolescent girl
~to be very worried about my grandmother. She fell and broke her shoulder (like it's not really attached or something)

About my grandmother...She has horrible cardiac health and her kidneys don't function at 100%. She should have had open heart surgery a few months ago but she decided not to the day before surgery. She is a horrible surgical candidate but needs to have a shoulder replacement just to improve the quality of her life. She's in a terrible amount of pain and is on tons of pain medications. My grandpa is going nuts over her condition and being in the hospital (he just had a hip replacement after falling and isn't doing well either). She (and my grandpa, Mom, aunt, and uncle) have to come to some decisions about her plan of care tomorrow. Any prayers you can spare for my grandma, our family, and the physicians/nurses involved in her care, would be greatly appreciated. It's been a very rough few months for my family. We've already lost my grandpa. I can't imagine going through that experience again with my other grandparents.

Hope everyone has a great Veteran's Day Friday!

Likes and Dislikes

2011-11-08T21:02:00.000-05:00

I have come to realize this week that there are a lot of things that I like right now and a million things that I dislike right now. Some (most) things are very superficial and not important but some of these things are really messing with me a little so I figured why not talk about it on here.
Dislikes
~that the Duggar's are having another baby. I just cannot believe this. First off, how can anyone stand to be pregnant almost all of their adult life??? That's just craziness to me. But more importantly, how is her uterus still functioning? I mean there's got to be a point where a doctor has to say enough is enough. I just can't believe this is safe for Mom and baby. I just pray the baby is healthy since they had such a scare with their last baby
~that Christmas is less than 2 months away and we haven't started shopping. Christmas has snuck up on me this year and I am not prepared at all. At least the Hubs and I are starting to work on things
~that Noah is turning 5 in January. I don't know why this is bothering me so much but it is. I remember the day he was born like it was yesterday. There's no way it was 5 years ago. He's such a big boy now. I'm so proud of everything he's accomplished so far but I really wish I could keep him little forever.
~that Emmy goes to PreK next year. My baby girl will be 3 which means time for school. I'll have both babies in school. What am I going to do on my days off? I won't have screaming and crying. I won't have "Mommy" said over and over. I won't have cartoons on the TV. I'll have to start doing more work around the house.
~folding laundry. Enough said

Likes
~Target's Halloween section being 90% off. I got 2 costumes, a bag of candy corn, a pumpkin bucket, 2 haunted house craft thingies, 4 packages of treat bags, a shirt for Emmy, stickers, 4 decent sized Halloween bucket/tubs, all for way less than $20. Did we need all of this, absolutely not. But I saved a significant amount!!! The costumes themselves were originally $20/costume and I got them for $2 each! Score for me!!!
~that Christmas items are out already. I just love Christmas! It makes me happy! But I will say that hearing Christmas music in the stores already is a bit much though
~the Peppermint Mocha is back!!! I've had 3 since Sunday (skinny of course!)
~that I've officially decided on which half marathons I'm running this year. I've decided to run the Inaugural Rock N Roll St Pete half and the IronGirl Clearwater half. I'm going to throw in the Turkey Trot 5K (maybe 10K) and a few random 5K's along the way.
~the cooler weather that we're experiencing in Florida right now. It's nice to wear long sleeves every so often!
~that I'm hosting a Pampered Chef party next week! I can't wait to see everyone and purchase some more kitchen goods. If anyone is interested in buying, check out my consultant's page and search for my party (Jessica Crimella). Any items purchased will count towards my party. Plus there's a free gift for any purchase over $60. Can't go wrong with that!
~that I got to spend the weekend with my family and my friend Jen. It was a great weekend and I can't wait to get back down there again.

Jen, Em, and Me

Hope everyone has a great Wednesday!!!

Miss this guy already

2011-11-06T20:58:00.000-05:00

My lifelong friend Jen had this amazing bundle of joy in September and I finally got to meet the little guy! I am in LOVE with Colton (and the very flattering camera angle!!!) He is the most adorable baby and it's so amazing to see my friend in the Mommy role! Although I have to apologize for Colton's obvious obsession with my boobs ;) I am a very proud Aunt!!!

Congrats to Mrs W (and Mr W) on their exciting news!!!
I'm catching up on blogging this week! I'm getting back in the saddle with tons of stuff to talk about!

It's OK

2011-11-03T21:53:00.000-04:00

Yes, it's one of my favorite days of the week...Thursday! Not only is it my BMT clinic day, but Thursday means it's almost the weekend and I can link up with Amber and Neely for "It's OK" Thursday!!! So here goes......

It's OK.....
~to be a HUGE blog slacker and only post randomly (I'll be better I promise!!!)
~to be so excited for this weekend so I can finally meet Colton and hang with one of my bestest friends ever
~to be excited that it's almost time for the holiday menu at Starbucks!! I know everyone has been raving over the Pumpkin Spice Latte but I'm a Peppermint Mocha kind of girl!!!
~to be loving the weather in sunny FL right now! I'm actually enjoying the crisp cool air this year
~to be bummed that I never took advantage of any of the amazing Erin Condren deals out there (yes I'm a loser)
~to go to bed at 9:15 last night and get almost 9 hours of sleep and still be exhausted when I woke up
~to be extremely happy for this girl and this girl for all the hard work and training they've done in preparation for their half marathon this weekend
~to be slightly obsessed with our new TV lineup....Glee, The New Girl, Tosh.O, Restaurant: Impossible, Once Upon a Time, The Next Iron Chef: Super Chefs
~to have never realized how funny The Big Bang Theory is. The Hubs and I have been watching it nonstop lately
~to almost have a huge hole in my sneakers right at my big toe....ok...that's not OK...obviously
~to need new sneakers due to the above....hint hint Hubs

Hope everyone has a great Friday!!!

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-31T16:45:00.001-04:00

Happy Halloween everyone! I know I've said it here before but I'm not a huge Halloween fan. But that doesn't keep me from participating in festivities or preventing my kids from doing the same. Today we've already enjoyed Trick or Treating at Noah's school (we ended up with enough candy that we don't even need to go out tonight) and we're looking forward to tonight! I even took part in some Halloween fun at work!

Working with the Kiddos...Bald is Beautiful!!!

Me and Nicole

Bald is Beautiful!!! And a Clown!!! Out patients loved it! Our bald heads aren't as cute as theirs!!!

Halloween Parade at school

Optimus Prime led the parade!

Em refused to wear her Little Mermaid dress but still went Trick or Treating

His bag is that heavy!

The flash fired but I love this pic of me and my Mom (except for the few extra chins I have)! The teachers were 101 Dalmations and the principal was Cruella DeVille!

Looking forward to more fun tonight!!!

It's OK

2011-10-27T21:03:00.003-04:00

I feel like I only blog on Thursdays. But it's an awesome day to blog because it's Amber and Neely's "It's OK" Thursday!! So here goes......

It's OK
~To cry because of all the bad news happening at work this week
~To not be excited about Halloween being Monday (or all the Halloween festivities going on starting tomorrow)
~To be so thrilled for my bestie and her hubby who are closing on their dream home tomorrow
~To be looking forward to finally meeting Mr Colton!!! He's so grown now (as in a few months old) but Auntie Jessica still has not snuggled with him yet
~To be excited for the Lightning game on Saturday!!! Hockey, friends, and a fun event for childhood cancer!!!
~To stare the sneak peak of my kids photo shoot all day, every day! Jamie Lewis Photography is amazing!!!
~To be excited that it's almost time to for Christmas!!! Yes, I'm ready for Christmas already!!!

Here's a just a few of the amazing pics that Jamie took (all pictures by Jamie Lewis Photography):

Make my heart melt right now!!! This is the most amazing picture of them and not staged at all!!

Where do we (I) go from here?

2011-10-25T11:41:00.000-04:00

Man am I not motivated for anything. I don't want to do the laundry, load the dishwasher, cook dinner, nothing. This has been a running theme with me for a while now. Actually I think it's all gone downhill since my hospitalization/surgery. Or maybe even longer than that. I'm just exhausted.

But exhaustion is no longer an excuse (I hear you chuckling since I've said that, oh, a million times already). I'm mentally ready to get back on track. These are the areas I'm ready to work on:
Marriage
I had posted before how hard things have been for the Hubs and I. After coming to a realization that I can't blame him for everything that's wrong with us, things have been getting so much better. We've been spending more time together, even if it's just watching our new favorite TV shows (I have a few good ones but that's for another day). I feel like things are less stressed between us and we're headed back to the land of actually enjoying each other. But it's still a work in progress.
Family
My new work schedule is definitely helping in this arena. I just love being home with the fam on the weekends. I'm getting to do so much more than when I had to work 2 weekends in a row. However, this also means that our weekends are jam-packed with stuff to do, people to see. While this is definitely strengthening us as a family, I really look forward to the weekends where we have nothing to do or when it's just the 4 of us, although I've realized how important it is to spend time with family. My grandpa taught me that.
Kids
My kids are my world. I just don't know where I'd be without them. I truly know that I was put on this Earth to be their Mommy. But there are so many days where I feel like I'm failing them. Do they watch too much TV? Yes. Do they play outside enough? No. Do I let them get away with too much? Yes. Am I working with Emmy and her talking enough? No. Should I be more strict with them? Yes. Should I be forcing Noah to ride his bike? Probably. Am I encouraging their creativity enough? No. I think this is a struggle that every parent (not just Mommies) deal with every day. I really want to be better, not just because they need me to be but because I need me to be. Last night we had such a great time making little owls. It only took 10 minutes but my kids loved it (so did I) and now they are so proud of what they've created. Why am I not doing this more often?
Food
Sounds really weird to be on the list of things to work on but it is. We are in a food rut in my house. Same meals week in, week out. Granted we're not the most adventurous eaters but it's getting boring. I'm a pretty picky eater, always have been. But as I'm getting older, I'm getting better. Em's a great eater. She'll eat almost anything. Noah's hit or miss. He's very finicky but with him, it's all about getting him to actually eat. He has to eat on his terms, not ours. I think we may have encouraged his independent, strong willed side a little too much. The Hubs is a picky eater no matter what he says. Our problem is everything he likes, I don't like. Finding the happy middle is the issue. My goal is to find new, exciting dishes, that are also healthy, to incorporate into our lives.
Me
This is a HUGE area I need to work on. I have to get back on track with exercise. I have to get back on track with weight loss. More importantly, I have to work on liking the Me that I am right now. All too often I focus on all the things I want to change about me. Very rarely do I focus on the things that I like about myself. This is all about embracing who I am, not who I think I'm supposed to be. This is also going to be really hard. But this I have to do in order to succeed at improving any of the other areas in my life that I want to work on.

So here's to hard work, sweat, tears, love, cooking, and crazy looking owls we made together!!!

Noah made the 2 owls on the outside and Em made the owls in the middle with some help (well more help on the brown and yellow one obviously)

Kiss the Bride

2011-10-24T21:00:00.000-04:00

Happy Monday Y'all!!! I hope everyone had a great weekend! I was having a great weekend until my Bulls lost in the last quarter of the game. Oh was I mad. So mad that the Hubs told me I'm never allowed to yell at him for the way he watches the Gators. There may or may not have been yelling, screaming, and slamming of hands during the Bulls game. What can I say? I'm a fan! But then I got over my anger (sort of) when we headed off to my friend Julia's wedding. Julia is the twin sister of one of my besties. She got married at Sunken Gardens (a beautiful venue) surrounded by her friends and family. It was beautiful and I'm so honored to have been there to share in her big day. We had a great time, got to catch up with friends, and drank some (a lot) of wine.
In true Jessica fashion, an over abundance of photos from the wedding!!!

The amazing venue

Me and the Hubs

Here comes the Bride

You may now kiss the Bride

I love this family!!!!

My new fav picture of us

Love them!!!!

Me and the Beautiful Bride

Me and Kev

Me and my Ousley's (Julia, Jess and me)

Chi O Candle Pass

Me and my bestie Jess

White boys dancing

Love them!!!!

A great pic by the Hubs

Spouse Swapping

Sorry for the amount of pictures (again) but it was such a great time and such a special day. The Hubs and I are so blessed to have amazing friends in our lives.

A quick photo recap of the past 2 weeks

2011-10-21T21:23:00.000-04:00

Boy have I been slacking on the blogging front! 2 weeks have gone by and no updates. I'm sorry about that everyone. So to catch everyone up to speed, I'll do a quick photo recap.

First we start with 2 weekends ago, at Noah's school fair. Fun Fair has been around longer than I can remember. I remember spending the entire weekend there because that's what you did. Now that I'm a parent of the school, I'm obligated to go. Everything's come full circle. Once a student, then alumni, now parent. Strange. But anyways, his PreK class, along with the K/1st graders, did a performance of 2 songs. One was "I like Me" and the other was about a little ghost. Here's a few pics:

The whole group

With his self portrait

I'm a little ghost and I say BOO!!!

Then we celebrated my Grandpa's birthday. It was weird not having him around this year but I hope he liked his balloon!

Add caption

Then we had our big Disney trip. We're passholders so we go a lot. Our kids have grown up spending time at Disney. But this time was different. It was the first time that Emmy really had fun I think. Being 2 and talkative, she was able to laugh at the rides, say hi to all the characters, and just have fun.

I love this castle!!! I can stare at it forever!

This face is priceless!!!

She was Snow White all day!!

She loved meeting Minnie but hated Mickey...like cried whenever he looked at her

She loved looking at the Princesses faces

Her second favorite of all time!!!

Think she's worn out?!?!

Digging up some dinosaur bones

Just hanging out with some random girls

Mulan was one of their favorites!!!

I know this was a ton of pictures but it was the fastest way to catch everyone up to speed. Plus I just adore my kiddos so I love looking at their pics!!! This weekend is busy for us....pictures tomorrow AM, a wedding tomorrow night, and then housework all day Sunday. Hope everyone has a great weekend!!
GO BULLS!!!!

It's OK

2011-10-20T21:09:00.002-04:00

I love Thursdays. Why? It's one of my Bone Marrow Transplant clinic days (and I have great BMT kiddos) but it's that time for "It's OK" Thursdays with Amber and Neely!

It's OK......
~To not blog all week except for today's "It's OK"
~To be excited for my friend's wedding this weekend! I just love weddings and I'm so happy for Julia
~To be stressed out because I have no idea what to dress the kiddos in for their pictures this weekend
~To have a VERY rough Mommy day and wish that my name wasn't Mommy
~To secretly think your sassy 2 yr old is cute when she says "I don't want to....(insert anything here)" as she dramatically crosses her arms over her chest
~To be upset that it's cold here in Florida now. It was in the low 70s this morning...that's cold for this FL girl
~To be even more upset that I don't have a great winter wardrobe (hint hint Hubs!!!)
~To hate the preschool germs that are invading our house one person at a time. I just love not being able to breathe out of my nose....read with a touch of sarcasm....
~To cry and be overwhelmed with anything and everything. I kinda feel bad for the Hubs this week.
~To desperately wish for 2 complete days of uninterrupted sleep....one can only dream!

I hope everyone's week was a good one! There's a ton going on this weekend so I'll have tons to share plus our Disney recap!!!

Happy Homecoming to all my USF Bulls out there! I just love Homecoming time! GO BULLS!!!

Quick little something

2011-10-17T22:07:00.000-04:00

Again, I've been a horrible blogger but I have a good reason. Ok I really don't.

But here's a little teaser from what we did this weekend:

She was so excited to meet Belle (her favorite Princess behind Little Mermaid)

All smiles for Stich!

And if you ever wondered what a day in my life looks like, just take one look at this:

The Hubs and I have a very high maintenance girly girl in the making!!!!

It's OK

2011-10-13T20:21:00.000-04:00

It's Thursday, always a fun day, because it's time to link up with Amber and Neely for "It's OK" Thursday!!!

It's OK......
~To be super stoked for Disney this weekend!
~To have way too many clothes packed for this weekend for the kids. I mean Emmy has 3 pairs of shoes packed!
~To clock out in the morning instead of clocking in....aka wishful thinking at 0730
~To think of an idea mid week and say to yourself "This would be good to post on my "It's OK" post"
~To not be excited about Halloween but pretend I am because everyone else in my house is
~To (maybe) have a slight urge to go back to school for my masters
~To not know which area of nursing to get my masters in
~To totally love my job and all my clinic boyfriends/girlfriends
~To be loving hanging out with the Hubs every night catching up on snuggle time and TV time

The One with the Brutal Honesty

2011-10-11T13:04:00.000-04:00

I don't do a lot of emotional posts on here. Maybe because I don't like to feel vulnerable. Maybe it's because I don't know who's really reading this.  Maybe because I don't like to discuss my emotions. Ok that's the main reason but who's keeping track!?! Yesterday showed me that it was time to really get some stuff off my chest.

There's a reason I read the blogs I read. I feel connected to the writers. I feel like I'm friends with them, even if they have no idea who I am. I feel like we have so much in common.  Reading yesterday's blog posts was like a therapy session for me.  Yesterday proved to me that I am not the only one feeling the things I feel.

I have been way off track when it comes to running. I really want to become a runner. I hate everything about running yet I love it at the same time. I seem to find excuses for not getting out there....my shoes are falling apart (which they are), it's too hot, it's too cold, it's raining, I don't have time, I can't wake up early enough, I don't have a treadmill.  I'm disappointed in myself that I would let these excuses get the best of me.  I thought being a working Mom of 2 kids under the age of 5 was excuse enough for the lack of running but then I look at some of my fellow bloggers, especially this one and this one, who somehow manage to get it all done. They inspire me to be better, to work harder, to get my fat ass off the couch! I've been finding more and more blogs about people's running journey and it's all become a source of motivation, encouragement, and inspiration.  You're looking (well I guess you're actually reading) at a girl who is ready to take the plunge, ready to make the commitment. I know it's going to be a bumpy road but I also know it will make me healthier, happier, and better off in the long run.

Now on to the harder topic. Yesterday Megan at Mackey Madness wrote the most amazing post about marriage. (If you don't know her, you should. She's quite a doll) It was all about the truths of marriage and how much work it takes to make a marriage work. This struck such a chord with me. I've been married to the Hubs for almost 6 years. It has been the hardest 6 years of my life. The ups and downs we've had is almost too much to take. There have been many times that I've thought it was too much for me to handle. But yet, we stick it out. I don't know if we're doing it for us or our kids. But either way, we work through it.
I've learned the hard way that it's not the fairy tale I grew up dreaming about.
Marriage doesn't work like Disney movies.
Marriage is downright hard work and you get out of it what you put into it.
It took me this long to realize that fact.
Crazy, isn't it?
The bottom line is I married the Hubs for a reason.
I love him.
I love him no matter how mad he makes me. I love him because he challenges me. I love him because he gave me 2 beautiful children. I love him because he loves me more than anything in the world.
With all of that, wouldn't you think I'd be the happiest girl in the world with the best marriage in the world? Yet I sit here, dealing with the stress of our situation. I know I've been getting out what I have put in. I'm guilty of not working as hard on our relationship as I should.  I'm guilty of not valuing the partner I have. I'm guilty of being selfish. I'm guilty of letting life control us instead of being in control of our life.
All I know is not matter what, I can't imagine walking down this road with any other person.
Period.

One of my favorite pictures of us (minus the beer bottle). This is way back in 2004 when we first fell in love

My favorite "most recent" picture.....7 years later

I need more hardware

2011-10-08T11:58:00.001-04:00

I think I need to add some hardware to my collection.....

Guess that means I have to start training......

Of Course It's OK!!!!

2011-10-06T21:50:00.001-04:00

After a long night of singing and dancing to Jack Hartmann, with a bunch of preschool/elementary kids, I'm so excited to be linking up with Amber and Neely for "It's OK Thursday!" So here goes.....

It's OK.......
~to be insanely mad that my super expensive camera isn't taking great pics. Granted I still don't really understand how to use it to it's potential but still. I want great pictures...is that too much to ask?
~to have silly kid songs stuck in my head after watching Noah and his classmates have a great time dancing and singing
~to always say that I'm ready for cooler weather but secretly be cursing it when its in the 70s and I forgot my jacket....I'm a Florida Girl....70s means its jacket weather for me
~to want to drink a smoothie for every meal
~to be super excited for all my friends who are preggers or have new babies (and get my baby/pregnancy fix through them because there will be no more Baby Crimella's running around the world)
~to be getting excited for our Disney trip a week in advance, because going to Disney is as much fun for Mommy as it is for the kids
~to still be outraged a week after the fact that USF lost to Pitt. I think our record of losing 7 straight Thursday Night Football games should raise a flag when they try to schedule a Thursday game next year. I prefer a win over being on ESPN, but that's just me
~to want a vacation just so I can sleep

Hope everyone has a great Friday and a great weekend!!!

Help!!!!

2011-10-04T22:45:00.000-04:00

I know I've talked about my love/hate relationship with running (or exercise in general) but I've finally found something that sums it up completely!!!

I just love this, although I'd be dressed a lot cuter than the girl in the top picture
source

I've never said I'm a small girl. Actually I'm the opposite. I've got thick thighs that make finding shorts impossible. I have a post-baby (or post 2 babies) stomach that even scares me to look at (imagine what the Hubs thinks). I've got boobs. HUGE ones. They are the bane of my existance. So here's where I need help. Any suggestions on a good sports bra for a bigger chest? It took me weeks to find a decent one before my first half 2 years ago but I still bounce around a little more than I would like. I'm dying to find an amazing sports bra so I can run without having to wear 2 sports bras. Actually if I could find a super comfortable full body Spanx to run in, I'd be a happy girl and I'm sure everyone else who has to see me run would be happy. But for now, I'm just looking for some support. It's my goal to start dropping the weight, increasing the mileage, and shaving off the minutes.

So here's my new motto:

source

Happier Times are Here

2011-10-03T22:36:00.001-04:00

Thanks for all the love and support over the past week with the loss of my grandpa. His service was on Saturday and it was so much harder than I thought it would be. But it was a great showering of love for an amazing man. My family is kinda a big deal in Largo, like one of the first families of the town, so there were a handful of old time Largo people there. It was also nice to see the outpouring of love from Orange Blossom (where he used to work) and from the rest of the family. It's also been awesome having my aunt in town for so long. We don't get to see Aunt Robin that much so it was nice to see her almost every day. Hopefully she'll move her family back home and be closer!!!

But with all of the saddness going on, I'm ready for some happiness. I'm ready to move on. I think that sounded wrong but I hope you get what I'm trying to say.

Although my Rays are making me sad. We're down 2-1 in the series. After an amazing Game 1, we've now handed the Rangers the last 2 games. Tomorrow's a huge game. It better be good. Oh something cool about tonight's game.....if you watched the game during the 7th inning (I think), TBS showed a great image of my brother! There he was, close up on Justin, for a good 4-5 seconds. He's kinda famous now I guess. I'll have to get the picture (my other bro took a picture of Justin on the TV) and post it because his face is priceless!!!

This week we're gearing up for the big Fun Fair at St Pats. Noah's going to be performing. I'm sure we'll end up with at least 3 goldfish per kiddo, who of course will die within 3 days and we'll be heading to WalMart for replacement fish. We also have a Disney weekend planned in 2 weeks. So a lot of good things coming!!!

Oh I almost forgot....I scored the best deal ever. I just love Target's sales. I find the most obscure things in their clearance sections. I scored big time a few weeks ago in the school supplies section on Transformers stuff....coloring books, folders, book covers, etc all for about $0.30/item. On Friday, I stumbled into the 75% off section and found picture frames for $1.48!!! I am now the proud owner of very nice picture frames (of all sizes) for less than $10. And I now proudly display this picture:

The best picture of my Grandpa...ever!

Hope everyone has a great week!!!

The hardest time of my life

2011-09-28T21:33:00.000-04:00

This is a long one. It's somewhat of a therapy session for me.

I've been debating all week whether or not to post about this. I've been getting a ton of support from everyone but I've been avoiding talking about it. I'm the type of person who has no problem talking about other people's feelings or listening to other people's feelings and giving advice but when it comes to my feelings, I shut down completely. Ask the Hubs. It's his least favorite quality of mine. But I've always been good with words.

Growing up I always had a diary, which evolved to a journal as I got older. It wasn't until I got married that I stopped journaling. I honestly don't know why I stopped. It's so therapeutic for me. So why not give it a whirl now.

My grandpa passed away on Saturday. I feel like it was totally unexpected yet expected at the same time. He's been on Hospice care for a few years now. He had lung disease, COPD, and emphysema really bad. I guess a lifetime of smoking can do that to a person. He didn't want to go into a residential Hospice facilty no matter how hard my grandma pushed him to. Then on Thursday afternoon, he decided it was time to go to Woodside (the residential Hospice facility in our area). We were all shocked he decided to do this but he was getting too weak to care for himself and didn't want to burden anyone. He was his normal sarcastic, dry sense of humor self when my parents left him Thursday night. My mom was even mad (I should say irate) that they left him there. Friday I got a phone call I will never forget. My mom called my work to tell me he was unconscious. Those words took my breath away. How could this be? He was fine a few hours ago. After I composed myself (a few times) and got my patients squared away, the Hubs picked me up from work (I was in no shape to drive) and took me to Woodside, where we started our 29 hr vigil. I went immediately into nurse-mode, monitoring his respiratory rate, depth, perfusion, etc. I talked to the nurses and aides. I feel like my grandma looked to me for validation that everything she was seeing was the way the dying process was supposed to look like. It was a great coping mechanism because I've watched patients pass away. I also feel like it put me in a horrible position. I was almost "working", trying to make sure everyone understood what was happening that I wasn't allowed to fully deal with what was happening. But it's ok. Again, it was a great coping mechanism.  My nurse-mode also allowed me to find out that he was actually alert and talking at 8am Friday morning. Then he took a drastic turn for the worse within 2 hours. How could it happen so fast?

There were many times I didn't think he'd last too much longer. I didn't think he'd make it to 8pm. Then he proved me wrong.  We didn't think he'd make it until Uncle Steve got there. He proved us wrong. We didn't think he'd hold on through the night. Morning rolled around and he proved us wrong again. So we all assumed he was holding on for Aunt Robin. She was getting into town at 11am on Saturday. She got there and he hung on. Proved us all wrong again. I guess I should tell you that my grandpa is one of the most stubborn people on the planet. So I guess none of this shocks me. He was doing everything his way, not ours.  At 6pm Saturday evening, my aunt leaned in and told my grandpa that she and her brother (my uncle) and his wife were taking my grandma to dinner and my parents, me and the Hubs were staying with him.  Once the door shut, I asked my dad where he wanted to sit. He chose the comfy chair at the end of the bed. My mom was on one side of the bed and I was on the other. At that moment, my grandpa took his last breath. I truly believe he chose that moment because it was the first time anyone told him my grandma wasn't in the room. I don't think he wanted her to see him pass. It's sorta romantic in a way.

More than that, I am so blessed to have been by his side as he passed. Yes, it was the hardest moment I've ever faced, knowing that I just saw my grandpa take a breath for the last time. But it was also comforting that he felt comfortable enough, with me by his side, to take the next step in his journey. I consider it a gift from my grandpa. This idea helps me be at peace with everything (or at least get a little bit closer to being at peace with it).

He is the first grandparent we've lost. My brothers and I don't really know loss. Yeah I've lost patients that have been so close to my heart but it doesn't come close to comparing to the loss I feel now. Seeing my Dad cry for the first time in my entire life was hard. Seeing my baby brother look lost at the death of this great man was heartbreaking. Watching my grandma lose the love of her life was almost too hard to watch. It's all so hard to deal with. I know he's in a better place and I know this is for the best. But that does nothing to lessen the grief I feel. Hopefully it will as time goes on.

We are preparing for the service on Saturday. I know it will all come back to me. I'm going to be a wreck. It's going to make it even more real than watching him take his last breath.  The funeral will make it permanent. I don't know if I'm ready for that. I have to be and I'm sure I'll be just fine. I'm just not sure I'm ready.

2 of the most important men in my life...my Dad and my Grandpa

I love you Grandpa. I know you're feeling so much better and you're in a better place but that doesn't make me miss you any less. Please keep an eye out for us. My kids need someone looking out for them and quite honestly, so do I. Can you do me a favor? Find all my kiddos that are up there with you and tell them all the great stories I grew up listening too. I know they're going to love them as much as I did!!!

Fabulous Fall Challenge #7

2011-09-27T20:37:00.001-04:00

Day 7: Fall Recipes

I'm going to clue you in on a little secret. I'm not much of a chef. I try to look the part by having a really cute Vera apron, buying tons of cookbooks and cooking magazines, and even pinning a ton of recipes. But I'm not that big on cooking. I aspire to be but I don't have the drive or initiative. So this post will leave you with pretty much nothing. My mom has a great stew recipe (we call it Super Soup) that I make whenever it gets cold but do you think I have the recipe??? I get it from her every year, write it down on some random piece of paper, and that piece of paper never makes it to my recipe book. I know it calls for V8 juice, ground beef, lima beans, corn, carrots, peas, and thats about all I remember. So unfortunately I have nothing to share with you. Maybe I'll find the recipe tomorrow and I can share it then (but don't hold your breath).

But I'm stoked to check out everyone's recipes and more than likely steal them for my own use!!!

Fabulous Fall Challenge #5/6

2011-09-26T21:22:00.001-04:00

I was planning on taking a little blog vacay due to my grandpa's passing but I need a little care free fun after my first day back to work and my first day having to talk about what happened (aka I cried too much today). So I'm taking on Friday's Blog Challenge along with todays! So thanks again to Amber and Neely for giving me a little escape!

Day 5: Things You're Looking Forward to for Fall

~ temps below 80 degrees (although not too much lower)
~ decorating my house for fall
~ the USF game we're going to!!!
~ Baseball playoffs
~ Halloween costumes for the kiddos
~ Christmas shopping (I know this says fall but this year I want to get a head start)

Day 6: Fall TV Shows

I am a huge Glee fan. I've loved it since day 1. I was over the moon for it to come back! I can't wait to see what they come up with this season!

Zooey Deschanel is such a kooky chick! I've loved her in every thing I've seen her in. I couldn't wait to check out New Girl. It's following a great show (Glee) and its actually pretty good. I kinda wish she was my IRL friend!

This one is so out of character for me because I am not into guns, shooting, etc at all. But the Hubs and I stumbled across this show while we were in NYC on our trip and it's pretty cool. Its a reality show that brings together a handful of expert marksmen and makes them do competitions using a variety of weapons (like hachet throwing....how cool is that?!?) We even saw one that had this expert archer who hit a single aspirin that was tossed in the air from like 100 feet away. Yeah, they're that good. Plus the host Colby is nice to look at ;)

Thanks to everyone for all the prayers being said for my family. It's a lot harder than I thought it would be but I'm comforted by the fact that Grandpa is in a better place.

2011-09-25T15:56:00.001-04:00

My grandpa passed away on Saturday night surrounded by all of our family. That's why I've been a little MIA and will continue to be MIA for a few days. Please pray for my grandma and all my family as we deal with losing one of the most amazing men I've ever known. Pray especially for my Dad who was super close with my grandpa (his dad) as he makes all the arrangements while dealing with his grief.

Make sure to hug your loved ones a little tighter. You never know when you have to say goodbye.

Fabulous Fall Challenge #4

2011-09-22T21:01:00.000-04:00

Post #2 of the day....It's Fabulous Fall Challenge Day 4 which is all about Fall Decorating. Amber and Neely have really come up with some great topics for this challenge!!!!

My fall decor is really kinda boring. I know I said yesterday that I don't like Halloween, and I know that Halloween isn't the only way to decorate for Fall but the Hubs just loves it! I'll put out a few pumpkins here and there. My owls come out in full force {If I haven't mentioned it, I collect owls. The owl is Chi Omega's mascot and since I'm a Chi O, of course I love owls!!!) My owl collection is usually on display but I have some fun Halloween themed owls that come out around this time. If it were up to me, this is what our house would look like for Fall/Halloween:

source: http://www.centsationalgirl.com/ via Jessica on Pinterest

source: http://sweetsomethingdesign.blogspot.com/ via Jessica on Pinterest

But sadly, this is the only holiday that the Hubs actually likes so I tend to let him make some of the decisions when it comes to outdoor decor. He does not think cutesy fits with Halloween. He's about zombies, tombstones, spiderwebs, and fog. No cute ghosts or witches allowed. This is what the house looked like for our first Halloween as homeowners. Now imagine it with fog, more cobwebs, and a few other items.

It's OK....I promise!!!

2011-09-22T20:19:00.001-04:00

It's Thursday so it only means 1 thing.....It's OK Thursdays! I'm linking up again with Amber and Neely (and I'm going to be linking up with those girlies for post #2 of the day in a minute). So here goes....

It's OK.....

To be so excited for Saturday morning's CureSearch walk! I can't wait to be walking to raise awareness for childhood cancer and to celebrate my patients, those here with us and those who have been called home.

To be spending my Saturday evening and Sunday afternoon at the Trop cheering on the Rays!

To crave Starbucks on a regular basis

To secretly wish it doesn't get too cold this fall/winter because I don't want to wear socks

To have been successful with 2 new recipes I found on Pinterest this week

To love linking up so much this week. I'm finding so many awesome blogs this way!!!

To love my kids and the Hubs so much!!!

The one about Halloween

2011-09-21T20:59:00.001-04:00

Day 3 of Amber and Neely's blog challenge is all about Halloween (What do you do for Halloween/a Halloween memory). Halloween is a holiday I honestly could live without (although it is the Hubs's favorite holiday ever).  And before you ask, no, I'm not one of those people who never dressed up or went Trick or Treating. I just don't get that into it.  I think it's great to dress up my kiddos though!

So what do I do for Halloween?

Growing up, we lived on an orange grove. We didn't have any neighbors (which I always wanted) so there were no houses to walk to. My parents used to dress us up, throw us in the car, and they'd drive us to our grandparents, aunt/uncles, and friends houses.  I didn't know until I was in about 4th grade that not everyone Trick or Treated like we did. Once this realization occured, we started going out in my bff's neighborhood (and made a KILLING!) Now we live in a neighborhood and wouldn't you know....there's no kids on our street so no one celebrates. Our next door neighbor brings some stuff over for the kids and then they go out to dinner. We had more trick or treaters show up at our apartment than we do in our neighborhood. So we head over to my parents and hit up their neighborhood....think block parties, people sitting in their driveways waiting for kids, the works!

Now I look forward to Noah's school Halloween party/parade. All the younger kids (PreK-2nd or 3rd grade) all dress up and go on a parade around the school. The 4th-8th graders all line up and hand out candy. It's really cute and we've made out like bandits on the candy front for years (my mom works at the school so Noah's been going almost every year he's been alive). I can't wait for this years party!!!

Man....I'm kinda boring now that I think about it. I hope everyone else has more fun Halloween memories/plans!!!

Fabulous Fall Blog Challenge #2

2011-09-20T10:27:00.000-04:00

It's Day 2 of Amber and Neely's Blog Challenge!

Today is all about Fall Clothes/Makeup/Trends. Again, I'm going to remind everyone that I live in Florida. It's still 90 degrees for a couple more weeks. Hopefully it will start cooling off soon. We had a couple mornings in the high 70s/low 80s but that didn't last all that long.

Fall means sweaters, scarves, oranges and browns. I love the idea of introducing layers into the wardrobe. I have a very small comfort zone when it comes to temperature so layers are a must! These outfits are inspiring my fall wardrobe (in my head for right now since I haven't really gone shopping lately)

I want this to be my typical day to day outfit! via

via

I love the mustard color!!! via

This eggplant color....swoon! via

But until the weather cools off, I think I'll stick to outfits like this:

A little bit of summer, a little bit of fall via

Fabulous Fall Blog Challenge #1

2011-09-19T20:48:00.003-04:00

Well let me tell you how exhausted I am. I went back to work today (finally) after a long 3 weeks of being useless. I thought going back for a 10 hour shift wouldn't be too hard but boy am I beat! My feet hurt, my body hurts, oh and I got kicked right in the stomach. Yep. Right at the belly button where my fabulous surgeon so nicely pulled my gallbladder out. It's one of the few times I hate working with kids....their flailing extremities hitting and kicking you. But those instances are few and far between. But I survived and I'm so happy that I have tomorrow off to recover. Hopefully my next 3 days will be a little easier.

But on a more fun note....I'm linking up with Amber and Neely for the Fabulous Fall Blog Challenge!

I think these girls are geniuses for coming up with this! I'm more of a spring/summer girl (I think living in FL all my life contributes to this) but as I get older, I'm starting to appreciate fall more and more. So this 2 week blog challenge is going to be so much fun!!! I love the idea of a different fall topic each day. So for the first day, our topic is Fall Traditions.

1. College Football!

I'm a sports girl. Always have been. It's one of the reasons the Hubs fell madly in love with me ;) College football is huge in our house. I'm a big supporter of my USF Bulls....yay for being ranked #18 this week!!! I'm so proud of how far the team has come from the first college game of my college career (way back in 2000....man I'm old!) I love donning my green and gold!!!! Every Saturday in the fall you can find me watching the Bulls (while the Hubs watches the Gators)

2. Baseball Playoffs

Again, I'm a huge sports fan. I live for baseball season. We're lucky to have a MLB team in our own backyard. The Tampa Bay Rays have turned into quite the team. The Hubs and I loved them when they were the Devil Rays and, for lack of a better word, sucked. It's nice that they're playing well again. And it's even better that they have made a miraculous turnaround and might actually make the playoffs this season! If they get into the playoffs, maybe we'll go to one of the games. We've been to at least one game in every playoff series the Rays have been to over the years. We were even lucky enough to go to Game 1 of the World Series in 2008! Hopefully going to a Rays playoff game this fall will be on our agenda this year too!!!

I've realized that I really don't have too many traditions that don't revolve around sports....some fall girl I am ;)

3. Trick or Treating with the Kids
Having kids makes Halloween that much better! There's something so adorable about little kids dressing up in costumes, looking so cute! This year, I'm looking forward to having my very own Captain Hook and Little Mermaid walking around the neighborhood! Here's some of our pics from Halloween's past....

Noah's first Halloween as a Turtle. 2007

2nd Halloween. 2008....dinosaur

Halloween 2009. Thomas the Train and a Pumpkin

Halloween 2010. A firefighter and Tinkerbelle

I hope everyone has better fall traditions than I do! I guess since we don't exactly have a fall season in Florida, I don't have great fall traditions. Oh well. Can't wait for the rest of this challenge!!!

Now it's off to get some much needed sleep after my first day back at work!!!

What a Great Day!

2011-09-16T21:50:00.000-04:00

I almost changed the title to this post because it reminded me so much of The Fresh Beat Band.....a crazy show on Nick Jr that my daughter is OBSESSED with (the songs are really catchy though...don't tell anyone I said that). But I couldn't change it because that's exactly what today was...a great day!

I knew it was going to be good when I opened my inbox and found an email from Shutterfly for a free photo book. For those who don't know, I absolutely love Shutterfly. I love everything about it. I love their cards. I love their photo books. I love their photo share sites. I should be a poster child for them! (and I am, by no means, getting any compensation for saying this. I just love Shutterfly this much!) My creative juices started flowing and I instantly started planning out an NYC photo book!

The day continued to get better when I got to Noah's school. The aide in his PreK class is a photographer. She's actually the photographer we used for our wedding. She did all the yearbook pictures for the school. I was talking to Noah's teacher and she yelled over, "Want to see the cutest picture?" I, of course, answered with a sassy reply "Oh you have a picture of me?" When she showed me Noah's picture, I was in love. His school picture is absolutely amazing. He's never smiled as big and bright as he did for this picture. He looks absolutely perfect. She was so thrilled when she saw his prints that she knew she had to show me herself. It's amazing how a great picture of your child can make your entire day that much better!

I've been working on our photo book all day. Yes, I said all day. Not because it's hard but because the program has been a little slow. But slowness will not tamper with my happiness. The book is absolutely awesome! I'm so excited to actually have it! I think it's going to be a great way to remember and cherish our trip. And it will look awesome next to the photo book of our honeymoon!

But that's not all! We took the kids out for a little shopping tonight. We stopped at Bath and Body Works for the awesome owl Wallflowers I posted yesterday. While we were there, the Hubs found me a few more owl items to add to my collection and we found a new scent for the fall. I wanted a pumpkin scent and the Hubs only likes caramel. What did we find? Pumpkin Caramel Latte!!!! OMG it's fabulous. So we are now Pumpkin Caramel Latte'd out! Its our hand soap in the bathroom. It's in our wallflowers in a couple rooms. It's a great scent and I'm just thankful the Hubs loves it too!

Oh but the fun doesn't stop there! Oh no it doesn't! I am proud to say I finally own a hot glue gun! I am so excited over this little bad boy. There will be crafting-o-plenty going on in the Crimella house! I can't wait!!!

Tomorrow will be a continuation of the fun! I'm finally getting a new bedset for our bed. Ours is a hot mess right now. And I'll be using coupons so its even more exciting! And my USF Bulls take the field again! Looking for win #3 tomorrow against FAMU. Wish I was going to the game so I could watch the halftime show. FAMU's band is out of this world!!!

But all that excitement makes for one tired girlie. I hope everyone had as great a day as I did and have an even better weekend!!!

It's OK

2011-09-15T12:38:00.001-04:00

I've never linked up with Amber of Brunch with Amber and Neely at A Complete Waste of Makeup for their "It's OK" Thursdays so I figured I'd give it a whirl!

It's OK:
~To be completely OBSESSED with Pinterest
~To be so obsessed with Pinterest that all my Christmas gifts are planned out, as well as teacher gifts for all year, to have new dinner recipes for days, to be up till all hours of the night testing them out, and to have cupcake recipes galore!!!
~To be counting down the days until Glee returns to TV!!!!!
~To be so excited for College Football Saturdays that we've planned our lives around UF games and USF games (well the Hubs plans his around UF) and the outfits to go with every Saturday
~To be lazy all day but still get everything done by bedtime
~To wear sweatpants all day, every day until it's absolutely necessary to wear real pants to go somewhere
~To love my Chi O sisters to the extreme that I do!
~To let my owl collection take over my house! Thank you Bath and Body Works for these babies!!!

Go here to buy them!!!

~To be so ready to go back to work it's not even funny! This 3 week health vacay was nice but not the way I wanted to use my vacation days. Plus I have some patients who are missing me like whoa (and I miss them back just as much!!!)
~To not know what I'd do without the Hubs and my kiddos!!!

Hope y'all have a great Thursday!!! The weekend is almost here!!!

Disney on Ice

2011-09-12T22:19:00.000-04:00

We are fortunate enough to have amazing friends! I know that's a rather odd statement. All friends should be amazing, right? That's why they are your friends. Why would you want less than amazing friends in your life? But I truly believe that the Hubs and I are extremely blessed in the friends arena.

A very close friend of the Hubs, well let me put it this way, his "other" brother (not biological but brother in every other sense of the word), was awesome enough to give us their passes to Disney on Ice since the ended up getting tickets through another friend. We had really wanted to take the kids but the money situation has been a little rough with my unexpected health vacay from work the past couple of weeks. So it was a great treat for us to end up getting to go this past Friday night. This was also my first real outing since surgery. And wouldn't you know, Emmy gets a fever and starts getting sick Friday afternoon. I was really bummed about this since I knew she'd LOVE it and because I was going to have to stay home (I secretly wanted to go more than the kids did). My mom was awesome enough to volunteer to watch her so the Hubs and I could take Noah. So we got ready and headed to Tampa.

Our seats were amazing, 16 rows from the ice. Noah was in awe the entire time! It was a great show. The skating was so-so (the guys were not landing their jumps cleanly) but all in all, I'm so glad we went. The concessions were outrageous....$10 for cotton candy??? Give me a break. But yes, we got cotton candy. And a $12 sno-cone. And a $7 box of popcorn. What can you say? We're suckers.

This also was the first time I have worn real pants since surgery. I've been living in sweatpants, which are A-OK for home but definitely not for wearing in public. Let me tell you, after an hour of pants, I was ready to unbutton and unzip, which I did the minute the lights went out!

Here are just a few (ok lets be real, more than a few) pics from the show:

He realized I could see him in the rearview mirror

View from our seats

Daddy and Noah (with the Nemo hat the came with the $10 cotton candy)

Me and my lil man

They ended the first act with a "It's a Small World" show. It looked exactly like the ride and Mickey went up in the balloon!

Checking out the ice at intermission

Me and the Hubs, who always leans back in pics so he looks ginormous with a small head

A pic of Ariel for Emmy

Fireworks after the show

All the characters at the end

If you ever get the opportunity to go to a Disney on Ice show, you definitely should. It's quite an amazing time!

Do You Remember Where You Were?

2011-09-11T20:23:00.000-04:00

I will never forget that day. I will always remember where I was, who I was with, and the emotions that I was feeling. I will never forget the panic I felt when we couldn't reach our family members who were in NYC that day, possibly at WTC.

I was a sophomore in college at USF so of course I had realized that me and morning classes did not mix. I was asleep in my dorm room when Matt, one of my dorm mates, woke me up pounding on my bedroom door. He was in the Marines and needed to borrow my iron. I had no idea what he was talking about and he told me that we were under attack, he needed to press his uniform and wait for instructions, and I needed to turn on the TV. I turned on the TV just as the second plane hit the second tower. I saw it live on the Today Show. I will never forget hearing Matt Lauer talking and the disbelief/shock/surprise in his voice when that second plane hit. I will also never forget that image. That video is forever engrained in my mind. I remember feeling scared and confused. I remember finally getting a hold of my mom to ask if she'd heard from my aunt and cousins. I can't remember if my cousin and his wife were living in the city at the time or if they were still in Conneticut but I do know they were in the city and had planned on visiting WTC that day. We were all frantic wondering if we were one of those unfortunate few who lost loved ones. After a few hours we were able to get through to them. Thankfully they opted to visit WTC the day before. We were all so relieved. USF had cancelled classes for the rest of the day. We all gathered in each other's rooms and the lobby of our dorm (love all my Leadership House peeps!) to watch the rest of the events unfold. A group of us opted to leave campus and head to a friend's home in Lakeland, just to get away for the day. It was a nice escape from the devastation that happened earlier.

As the days went on, we as a nation tried to rebuild. I remember seeing all the pictures and videos of the damage. It was all so sombering. I still have a copy of the Oracle, USF's newspaper, from September 12th. It has pages of pictures from the day before, some horrible, and some inspiring. I try to not look at it because it brings back so much emotion but I know exactly where it is.

As the 10th anniversary of this tragic day drew near, I tried to distance myself from looking at the pics and videos that were being posted online. Not because I'm unpatriotic, but because it still makes me feel so disgusted, sad, emotional, you name it. But it wasn't until a few days ago when I saw the picture of NYC taken from space. There was a lone American in the space station at the time of the attacks. He was the only American not on Earth when everything unfolded yet had a view of the damage from space. There is a video of images he took from space with him narrating what he was seeing. He expressed his sincere sorrow, love, and support for his fellow Americans but he ended with the most amazing words. He said that even on this horrible day "the city still looks beautiful from space." How true those words are. No matter how horrible the damage, how great the loss, the city and the rest of the country joined together to support each other and move on. How much more beautiful can you get?!?

My cousin took this picture on September 10, 2001 of the WTC. He's doing a 365 project on Facebook taking and posting daily pics with his iPhone. To commemorate today, he took a pic of the picture with his iPhone and editted it for his 365 project. To know that this picture was taken in the last hours of their existance is unbelievable.

To my aunt and cousins, thank you for changing your plans and visiting on the 10th. Things would be so different if you hadn't.

To all the men, women, and children who lost their lives that day, we remember you, honor you , and never forget you.

To all the men, women, and children who lost loved ones that day, we rally around you, raising you up in daily prayer, asking that peace and grace surround you and help ease your pain.

GOD BLESS AMERICA

My Craft Wish List

2011-09-10T22:37:00.000-04:00

I feel my DIY juices flowing!!! I have found so many ideas on Pinterest of things I had planned on buying in stores that I can make myself...and save some moolah!!! I've planned out 2 teacher gifts already, just need reasons to give them (or reasons to tell the Hubs so I can buy the supplies...love you Hubs!!!), I've already picked out potential Christmas gifts to make, and I've found so many tutorials for apothecary jars. I have been planning a stellar Christmas decoration that I cannot wait to share with all of you for months now and all I needed were the jars. Now I can make millions of them for half the amount of money I was willing to spend to buy them. Look how thrifty I've become!!!

So here's just a few things I need to get all of this underway:
1. Hot glue gun. I don't know how I've survived my adulthood without one. And come to think of it, I think my mom always had one growing up. Why didn't I ever get one?
2. E-6000 and Gorilla glue. Can't glue stuff together without this (obviously when I can't use the above mentioned hot glue gun)
3. Chalkboard paint. Any ideas about making it yourself? I've seen a couple DIY recipes but is it better to just buy it?
4. Mason jars. I just love them in general but I didn't realize they had so many uses!
5. A basic sewing kit. I don't even own a needle. Not a one. I have tons of scrapbooking supplies and tons of ribbon but no needle and thread. Ultimately I want a sewing machine but we'll have to work up to that. I have huge aspirations of making my own scrub tops and making dresses for Emmy
6. Buttons. Again, I never realized the unlimited uses buttons had. I always get rid of the extras on my clothes. You can use buttons on anything!!!
7. Ribbon. I have a little stash going but I need more. Plus Emmy's hair is getting longer so soon I will be putting ribbons around her ponytails. I also want to make hair clips for her so they are a must.
8. Fabric. I think I need to start a fabric collection. Not yards and yards of it but scraps of random fabrics.

That would be a great start. I have a real desire for a Cricut machine or a Silhouette. I love the idea of being able to cut your own diecuts and wording for scrapbooks but I really want to be able to cut vinyl. I have so many ideas for vinyl.

I can't wait to get crafty and of course, share it all with you!

In non-crafting news, we took Noah to Disney on Ice last night and had a blast! It was an awesome show and Noah (and Mommy) loved it. Here's a pic of me and my lil man. This is also the first time I've worn real pants in 2 weeks. Let me tell you...after about an hour of having the button rub my incision, I was ready for my sweats. I may or may not have had them unbuttoned during the entire performance!

I can't believe how grown up he is now!

Hope everyone is having a good football Saturday! The Hubs's Gators won and my USF Bulls won!!! GO BULLS!!!

WILW

2011-09-07T19:24:00.001-04:00

Happy Wednesday to everyone! I'm getting back into my old rhythm and linking up with Jamie for What I'm Loving Wednesday. So here goes!!!

I'm loving that my amazing friend Jen had her baby!!! Every morning I get a picture text sent to me of the cutest lil guy! I am definitely a proud Auntie!!! Can't wait to meet lil Colton!!!

I'm loving that I'm home and gallbladder free. After the week in the hospital and being away from the kiddos and the Hubs, I'm thankful to be home and getting back on my feet.

I'm loving that its football season again!!! My Bulls did an AMAZING job beating the Fighting Irish this weekend and I can't wait for the rest of the season! Go Bulls!!!

More importantly, I'm loving the Hubs. Not only has he held me together through my weeklong adventure in the hospital, he managed to keep the kids feeling as normal as possible. He's also done an amazing job taking care of me and picking up the slack while I'm a little incapable of doing too much. Poor guy has a stomach bug right now too (although if I get it, I'll kill him....and then blog about it!!!). I love you so much!!! Thanks for being amazing!!!

I'm also loving that its September. It is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month! Gold is the ribbon color for childhood cancer and I'd love to see it as popular and recognizable as the pink ribbon. I wanted to share a little something about the kids I work with:

They ride tricycles in the hallway, not in the park. They know the names of chemos instead of their classmates. Their central lines have names. Nurses and doctors are their new family. They think hair is overrated. Their laughter can make a heart melt. Their strength will make a grown person cry. If you've ever seen a kid fight cancer, it will change your life forever! September is Childhood Cancer Awareness Month, Pass It On.
How true these words are! Help us as we fight this nasty beast! Don't forget you can donate to my CureSearch Walk fundraising page here!

Have a great week!!!!