~~ They're leaving the nest, sew it's time for a trip - or two - or three...~~ D~'s bag ~9/22 ~~

Pluto0809 said:

Oh fun a DIS meet! I hope you have a wonderful time!

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Thank you - we had so much FUN!

Chicago Mo said:

Glad you get to meet her. Tell her i said HI!

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I didn't see this until after - but hopefully she saw it?

sunnysideup3 said:

Have a great DISmeet!

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Thank you - I did!

Clio said:

Have fun at your Dis meet today. Sorry about the tech issues don't you just love computers? We got new computers at work but they didn't install the program for doing cell phone contracts. We called tech support. Now we just have to wait til they fix it.
I'm glad you're not having problems with dizziness after running. My daughter did the color run on Friday and had a great time. She walked it because she can walk faster than she can run. She was just happy to finish and not be last.
Have a great day.
Liz

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Thanks Liz - it was so much fun!

Yah - there's always issues, I think. It's hard sometimes. There's still stuff on our old system that Allison and I NEED - but I hate to bug Josh about it when he has so much on his plate right now.

Thanks - It's been a relief, I still have a feeling of dread though - that this isn't over.

Congrats to her!!! How FUN! That is awesome!

You too - thank you!

ljcrochet said:

Hope you had a fun Disney.

I used to keep my old expired license in my arm band as well as a credit card that I had 2 of so I always had id with me when I ran.

A lot of the running tracker programs let you share you location with friend. I think it might be part of the paid part of map my run and run keeper.

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I did - thanks!!!

That's a good idea - I wonder where I put mine?

Hmmm... I'll have to look into that. Now that I have my Garmin - I've stopped using the running app on my phone. But if it had that feature - it would be nice.

Terkina said:

I had a great day today with you D~ and your BFF. After our great DIS meet, Ulf (Wolf) and I looked around at MOA. MOA is huge and we had some trouble navigating around at first. I managed to buy this years first Christmas gift. I bought a Rubik's cube looking like a brain at Marbles The Brain Store for my brother as a Christmas gift. He has the normal Rubik's Cube, but that's not a problem to solves since the solution can be found on the internet. Maybe he will have a harder time solving this new cube. We went window shopping (at least that's what we call it in Norway when you look in stores without buying anything) in many stores. I was hoping to find a Christmas gift for my youngest sister that likes Jack Skellington from a Nightmare before Christmas. But The Disney Store didn't have anything Jack Skellington. I'm guessing he can only be found around Christmas (I've always managed to find Jack Skellington at the Disney Store in London, UK in late November and December) and Christmas shopping hasn't started yet. So I will have to figure out something else to buy for her this year since I probably won't go to London this year because of this HUGE USA trip We headed back to our hotel at 4pm.

We didn't want to drive anywhere to get dinner because of Rush hour so we had dinner at the hotel.
Tomorrow we will continue our road trip and go to Madison, Wisconsin where my family and I lived for a year back in 1985/86. It's going to be an interesting going back there after all these years.

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I had so much fun yesterday - it was truly a joy to meet you and Ulf... I could have stayed and talked to you all day - I enjoyed it immensely and I was sad to have to leave.

I am glad you were able to find some gifts - Yes, the MOA is large, but I am glad you were able to find your way around. I didn't even think of that - I am there so much, I sometimes don't realize how easy it is to lose your bearings inside. I am glad you were able to find your way though - and find a few gifts in the process.

I worked for a little while when I got home, but I couldn't resist reading the book you gave me... It is beautiful and it was so fun reading about your city - I hope to visit one day. Thank you so much!

Wishing you safe travels today and for the rest of your trip - I am excited to hear more about it and the many adventures you'll have! Thanks for taking the time to meet me... It was so much fun and I hope that one day, we will meet again.

huggybuff said:

Yay! I think it helps so much when you have something specific that you're training for.
Awesome! Getting packages is so exciting. I just wish someone else would pay for them. I really like the stuff you picked out. Looking winter-ready!

I hope you had a great lunch today at your meet-up!

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I think so too... I was online last night looking for a nice 5k Halloween run to do, but nothing really interesting... There are a few up in the Cities, but I'd much rather stay in the suburbs.... Maybe I'll skip it this year - but I really wanna dress up. LOL And a 5k at the end of Oct, between the one I am doing in mid-Sept and the 8k Thanksgiving Day run, would be perfect, IMO. Oh well. Now, I am looking for something fun for a Christmas run... We'll see.

Yes, it would be nice if someone else would pay for this stuff. Running is not a cheap sport. In my defense though - In my years of getting healthier, I have spent next to nothing on sporting equipment, I've used what I've had. So... Maybe it's about time that I put a little bit of $$ into something? LOL Just trying to justify.

Thanks - it was so much fun!

**********************************************************************************

Yesterday was so busy and so FUN!

I worked out right away....

Then I got ready....

Dismeet ahead

I was literally RUNNING out the door - 10 min late - those that know me, I am rarely late.

On the way to BFF's I was nearly in 2 different car accidents with the same person!!!! Grrr... I was shaking by the time I got to BFF's house - so I made her drive to the MOA.

We met Lillian and Ulf at 10 am... Just the sweetest and nicest people ever. I enjoyed every moment we were together... It was so fun hearing about her trip so far, and also talking about our different cultures- how they are the same, yet different. I think I could have sat there and talked to them all day. We spent some time in Starbucks, and then we went to lunch at Bubba Gumps. It was just a lot of fun - I hope that one day I can see them both again, it was truly a delight to meet them.

Lillian made me the most adorable hand-made mitten key chains (I am wearing them on the ribbon around my neck in the above photos... I didn't want to lose them) - they are so thoughtful and so cute! I just love them! And the book she gave me about her city... I literally read the whole thing last night - it was so interesting to read about it - especially since she lives there... A beautiful city and just really beautiful people. If any of you get the chance to meet her while she is here (or in the future) - I would jump at the chance. Honestly - I wanted to hop in her car and go with them. LOL They have seen and done so much more than I ever have - it's just amazing and fascinating to talk about it.

Again - Lillian - I am just so happy to have finally met you! I wish you the absolute best! And I am so lucky to have such a good friend (Ulf too) across the world.

After coming home... I went straight to work for a while... I made a little progress - but the book Lillian gave me, was calling to me... So, I skipped out of work for the rest of the day, and went to read her book before making dinner. Shhhh.... LOL

I made some sort of ground beef/green pepper/onion/tomato/rice concoction - I was actually pretty tasty.

Then I sat on my tablet for the rest of the night... Like a slug.

Victoria auctioned some of her drawings in my last auction... She did amazingly well and everything of her's sold. She also managed to get a couple requests... So here is what she's been working on for the last few days... I am continually impressed by her drawing ability. Seriously - check out the tires on LmQ... And his "95" - she said that was the hardest part, shading the 95. I just love seeing her work, I am very proud of her talent.


Disney update

In case you all want another hint at which resort we are staying at... Suzi was kind enough to send me, not one, but TWO hints last night.

So... Just in case these photos seal the deal for you - and you know where I am staying... Hush... I am purposely staying OUT of the Resorts section on The Dis, because I don't want to ruin it for myself.


Eeeep.... I am just so excited to have a toilet where we are staying. Hopefully there's a bed too.

Today.... I will be heavy lifting shortly... Then a run tonight.

I will be working all day, in between. I am hoping to finish my current bag and get it out in the mail. Then I want to start on a side project again - my life is endless side projects at the moment.

I hope all of you have a fantastic day!!! Prayers and good thoughts go out to all of you!

D~

Looks like a wonderful, fun-filled DIS meet. As you know I have one this weekend that I'm so looking forward to!

V's drawings are amazing! She does such beautiful work.

I'm still giggling about the toilet paper clue. That's pretty funny. Did you know that some of the bathroom stall locks at Disney are made by a company called "Hiney Hiders"? No idea where they are, just saw it on another TR. You'll have to keep an eye out for those when you go!

OK, enough with the bathroom talk and off to work for me.

Finally caught up! Yay for Allison getting her license. Looks like a fun Dismeet. You look great!

Pluto0809 said:

Looks like a wonderful, fun-filled DIS meet. As you know I have one this weekend that I'm so looking forward to!

V's drawings are amazing! She does such beautiful work.

I'm still giggling about the toilet paper clue. That's pretty funny. Did you know that some of the bathroom stall locks at Disney are made by a company called "Hiney Hiders"? No idea where they are, just saw it on another TR. You'll have to keep an eye out for those when you go!

OK, enough with the bathroom talk and off to work for me.

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Eeeep!!! I cannot believe you are going to Oopsi's this weekend! I hope you will share lots of pictures for us, and also give her lots of hugs!!!! I miss all of my Dis friends so much!

Thank you - I am very proud of her!

Yah - she thinks she's funny. Pffft.... I was pretty sure there was a bathroom at our resort somewhere. I really am excited about being surprised about where we are staying.

Hehehe... Interesting... LOL

OregonMomToWDW said:

Finally caught up! Yay for Allison getting her license. Looks like a fun Dismeet. You look great!

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Thanks - it was so much fun!

I know - I can't believe she has her license... It seems like she is never home anymore.

We did have a fun Dismeet! And thank you!

****************************************************************************

I had a really nice day yesterday...

I did my heavy lifting right away in the morning.

Allison had to go to town for something for her business... I wasn't going to go with - but then I remembered that I needed to. I had to pay off my November trip.


Then I finally came home to work. I finished up this week's custom order. And I was able to get it in the mail early. Which is unheard of for me sometimes.

Oooh - while I was in town yesterday, I received a very important message... My very good friend Lois (disneychic) got to meet my very good CM friend Santos... The girls and I love him, so we always tell everyone staying or going to FQ to seek him out and give him hugs from his MN girls. So, Santos sent me the picture of their meet... I truly made my day!


Anyways... After work, V and I went to the post office... Dropped off a few packages... Then I came home, made dinner and hung out for a while.

I debated on going for a run... It was really hot and muggy here yesterday, and it's starting to get dark out earlier and earlier. I have to be careful about how I time dinner, or my food isn't digested enough for my stomach to handle the run by the time it gets dark out. Thankfully, last night it worked out for me - but it's not going to for much longer. I did have a GREAT run... my pace was decent (for me) - anything under 16 minutes, I am happy with right now... but my run just felt GOOD. I have not had any pain after a run (knees or feet) in several weeks - I think my body is used to it. Although, I have been having an issue with my left knee, only when I do push-ups.... It makes no sense to me either. But I am very careful to ice both my knees and my feet after almost every run - so that does help.


Today - V and I are headed up to my dad's for a quick turn around trip... I hate doing turn around trips, but it couldn't be avoided this time. As Allison needs my car to go to work tonight - neither of us can drive the Jeep efficiently enough to be safe on roads yet - and Josh needs his truck... So, V and I are running up and running back - we'll be lucky if we have enough time to go out for lunch with him. Sad.

I am hoping to work for part of the weekend, to get started on my next side project.

I hope you all have a great weekend! Prayers and good thoughts to all!

D~

Yea for paying off the trip! Now onto the next two, right?

Awesome that Lois got to meet Santos. I still can't believe that Mom and I stayed there a whole week last year and didn't see him once. We must have just missed him every time.

Have a great time with your dad today and a nice weekend. I'll definitely take some pictures to post!

DMGeurts said:

I was online last night looking for a nice 5k Halloween run to do, but nothing really interesting... There are a few up in the Cities, but I'd much rather stay in the suburbs.... Maybe I'll skip it this year - but I really wanna dress up. LOL And a 5k at the end of Oct, between the one I am doing in mid-Sept and the 8k Thanksgiving Day run, would be perfect, IMO. Oh well. Now, I am looking for something fun for a Christmas run... We'll see.

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Oh fun. I hope you find a good Halloween run. I haven't dressed up yet for a run but then I get there and see others in costume and feel like I should've. But I am getting a tutu for Wine and Dine.

DMGeurts said:

Yes, it would be nice if someone else would pay for this stuff. Running is not a cheap sport. In my defense though - In my years of getting healthier, I have spent next to nothing on sporting equipment, I've used what I've had. So... Maybe it's about time that I put a little bit of $$ into something? LOL Just trying to justify.

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I'd say the upcoming winter is justification enough. I don't have that excuse here in CA, lol. The lowest we get is 30ish degrees and I've gotten used to running in that weather in short sleeves. So there was no justification for what I spent this week. I will post pics next week on my thread when I get them in the mail.

V's drawings are gorgeous!!! Very talented girl.

I'm so glad you had a great DISMeet!

Have a safe drive!

And I started running last night. I ran/walked 1.5 miles. Not much, but it's a start!

What an awesome DIS meet. Have a safe trip to your dad's.

Everyone have a safe and fun Labor Day Weekend!!

Mornin D~

Your post about the running bracelet made me think that maybe Josh needs one next time he's out with the dogs....... Made me laugh sometimes I have a twisted sense of humor. Never said I wasn't a little bit nuts HAHAHAHAH.

So happy that the girls are spending time together. Don't let the squabbles bother you. My two will still squabble to this day and they are 25/29 but they have each others back and love each other very much. When they were younger they were so very different and would have never spent time together alone unless we were all together. You have done a splendid job raising them and you can see that they too love each other very much.

Your trip is not that very far away now. I love the idea of the surprise but it would KILL me not to know. I really hope it's where I think. I forget is this the first DISNEY trip for you, Mo and Suzi?

Things have been super crazy for me. My daughter got married on 8/16. It was going to be in December but her husband is in the Army and wasn't going to be home then only in August so - August it is. OH yeah that was in May. It was a little hot but all together wonderful. Not sure if you saw any pics on FB but there aren't many yet. We have to wait 6-8 weeks for the photographers. I have to admit I can't figure out how to add a picture or I would post one. EDITED: (Just saw my post and apparently something I did added something!

I can't believe you were able to meet with Lillian. How cool is that? OK enough from me I aparently am chatty this morning. Must be the joy of a long weekend. Hope you have a fantastic weekend.

Jane

Pluto0809 said:

Yea for paying off the trip! Now onto the next two, right?

Awesome that Lois got to meet Santos. I still can't believe that Mom and I stayed there a whole week last year and didn't see him once. We must have just missed him every time.

Have a great time with your dad today and a nice weekend. I'll definitely take some pictures to post!

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It's such a relief to have it paid off. I'll be much more relieved once Allison's trip is paid off... Then I can have a SHORT break before I work on Victoria's.

I know - It was so cool that she got to meet him. Maybe next time you will run into him? He's such a great guy!

Thanks... I'll have a dad update below.

huggybuff said:

Oh fun. I hope you find a good Halloween run. I haven't dressed up yet for a run but then I get there and see others in costume and feel like I should've. But I am getting a tutu for Wine and Dine.

I'd say the upcoming winter is justification enough. I don't have that excuse here in CA, lol. The lowest we get is 30ish degrees and I've gotten used to running in that weather in short sleeves. So there was no justification for what I spent this week. I will post pics next week on my thread when I get them in the mail.

V's drawings are gorgeous!!! Very talented girl.

I'm so glad you had a great DISMeet!

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I hope so too, but it's not looking very promising. I just think it would be so fun to dress up... I have so many Disney ears that I never get to wear outside of WDW... It would be great to put them to use.

Hahaha... I am really going to try to power through the winter as best as I can. I have no intention of really building pace or endurance, but continuing to get out there will be my ultimate goal.... As long as I can stay where I am at for endurance level through the winter, I will be satisfied with that. I am kind of looking forward to it, to be honest. I've never understood how people could "enjoy" winter, as I am one who would happily hibernate for the entire season.

Thank you - I like to think so.

Thanks - it was so much fun! I love doing Dismeets... I've met so many of my friends now, it's fun!

sunnysideup3 said:

Have a safe drive!

And I started running last night. I ran/walked 1.5 miles. Not much, but it's a start!

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Thanks, we did.

Yay!!! This is awesome!!! I am very proud of you. And 1.5 miles IS a lot... It's HARD, and you are still lapping everyone on the couch. Be proud!!!!

Sweetly said:

What an awesome DIS meet. Have a safe trip to your dad's.

Everyone have a safe and fun Labor Day Weekend!!

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It was awesome!!! So cool to finally meet her!

I did - thank you!

YES!!! I almost forgot it was a holiday weekend... I am working all weekend, so I didn't even think. I hope you have safe travels if you are traveling.

jkfandel said:

Mornin D~

Your post about the running bracelet made me think that maybe Josh needs one next time he's out with the dogs....... Made me laugh sometimes I have a twisted sense of humor. Never said I wasn't a little bit nuts HAHAHAHAH.

So happy that the girls are spending time together. Don't let the squabbles bother you. My two will still squabble to this day and they are 25/29 but they have each others back and love each other very much. When they were younger they were so very different and would have never spent time together alone unless we were all together. You have done a splendid job raising them and you can see that they too love each other very much.

Your trip is not that very far away now. I love the idea of the surprise but it would KILL me not to know. I really hope it's where I think. I forget is this the first DISNEY trip for you, Mo and Suzi?

Things have been super crazy for me. My daughter got married on 8/16. It was going to be in December but her husband is in the Army and wasn't going to be home then only in August so - August it is. OH yeah that was in May. It was a little hot but all together wonderful. Not sure if you saw any pics on FB but there aren't many yet. We have to wait 6-8 weeks for the photographers. I have to admit I can't figure out how to add a picture or I would post one.

I can't believe you were able to meet with Lillian. How cool is that? OK enough from me I aparently am chatty this morning. Must be the joy of a long weekend. Hope you have a fantastic weekend.

Jane

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JANE!!!!! HI!!!!! It's good to see you!

Hahaha.... I did actually think of getting Josh one of those bracelets... but then I figured it would do him no good unless it had a GPS tracker in it. Maybe we are on to something? LOL

I know - I keep hoping that one day they will grow out of it...

Yes, this is our first trip to DISNEY together... I am beyond excited to share this with them, since our love of Disney is what started our friendship in the first place. It will be super exciting. I am also excited to tour the parks the way Suzi does... Everyone has different styles, and mind is definitely different than Suzi's, but I am excited to experience Disney her way. This is going to be a FUN trip - I just know it!

Oh Jane, your daughter is stunning - what a wonderful picture! And she looks so happy!!! Congratulations to all of you!!! And thanks for sharing the picture!

Thanks so much for stopping by with an update, it's always good to see you!

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So, yesterday, V and I drove to my Dad's. The plan was a turn-around trip with a little lunch and shopping. But we had to be home by 3, so Allison could take my car to work...


Dad update

Well, enroute - as in 15 minutes away - I received a call from the nurse at the assisted care facility... My dad had a leg sore (he's diabetic), and it appeared to be infected. Along with some other issues, shortness of breath - tires very easily... she felt it was absolutely necessary that he see a Dr. yesterday. She was able to get him an appointment, but not until 3pm... So, I had to rearrange my whole day. Not a big deal - as my Dad Is absolutely a priority.

After seeing his leg ... Not only his sore/infection and how bad his edema still is... I agreed - he needed to see his Dr.

Despite the condition of his legs, he still wanted to bust out... So we went out for lunch, then we went to the craft store, we arrived at the Dr. a bit early and they were able to get us in early - which was really nice.

Dr. put him on an antibiotic for his infection in his leg. Did an x-ray of his lungs... Which really does concern me. I am worried about all of the other stuff... but he is tiring VERY easily... and has to rest after short distances of exertion. Something isn't right there.

It still blows my mind that he is only 69... His body is so much older. And it's very sad to me.

Brought him home... Got him settled, figured out his new meds with the nurses... Then V and I came home... It was a long drive and an exhausting day. Very glad I had her with me - I don't think I would have made it home with out her. We arrived home at about 8:30... Only 5 hours later than originally planned.

I waited for Allison to get home from work, because I hadn't set eyes on her all day. Then I went to bed.

Today is my "rest day" from working out. So, I plan to be lazy and enjoy it.

But I will be working all day... Josh is working up at his Dad's duplex... Allison is at Target... So, I might as well work.

I hope you all have a wonderful holiday weekend... Please travel safely if you are traveling.

D~

Sending positive thoughts and vibes to you and your dad. And hugs!

Prayers for your dad and you. Leg issues are scary for older/less healthy diabetics.

Yeah -- I got the jump rope to augment the heavy bag, did a couple of basic days and could tell a difference immediately. I'm still trying to find the perfect place to jump though, I'm a little tall for the garage (which is where the heavy bag is) and our driveway slopes, which throws off the rhythm. Luckily, we live on a dead end, so I should be able to jump on the street.

DMGeurts said:

But to have it to use for 3 seasons out of the year... Well, I am pretty excited about it.

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That is so awesome that you have such a nice trail so close to home!!!

DMGeurts said:

there is a giant Mickey in the yard... I wonder if they are a Diser and if I know them?

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I often wonder this when I see anyone wearing Disney stuff or with it on their desks or whatever....It almost feels like maybe you share a secret....

tinkbell13 said:

Apparently someone else in my family is excited about running at Disney. DH just sent me a link to runDisney that shows all the events this year.

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Disney runs look so awesome. I'd like to do one even if I have to walk the whole thing, just to be there.

You are doing amazing with your running and training. You are so determined and motivated too.

I think I've finally caught up around here!!! You have had a busy few weeks too!

DMGeurts said:

I have not kept track of where I've shipped them to... At one point, when I first started - I wanted to, but I just never did. I am pretty sure I am in most of the states now (admitedly, most of my bags ship to the southern and eastern states)... I also have bags in Europe and Canada. It's so funny, because when I send them out - it's like saying good-bye to a friend... Weird, I know - but I think you understand. Knowing I'll probably never see that friend again... So, it thrills me beyond belief when I see one in the parks or someone sends me a picture... Knowing there's almost always a part of my hard work and me in Disney - it's pretty cool. I am still shocked - to this day - that people like my items... Every time I post a picture - I wait with dread that people won't like it.

I am truly pumping myself up for it - I really want to. I am hoping there are still a few medals running around the parks while I am there with Allison... I never realized how much of a dream this was for me, until I started doing it. I'd forgotten how much I really wanted it to be a part of my life, earlier in my life, and how disappointed I was that my body just couldn't do it. I firmly believe that's what has made me love it so much now. I am hoping that one day I can work up to running through the castle... I also hope that one day, they bring back the ToT challenge and the AK race.... I would LOVE to run through AK!

Yes - I am so relieved that she found a good guy in Gus. It's so hard when they start dating, you just pray that who ever they date is respectful towards them and towards their family... We are very lucky that Gus is both.

I can send you the link for the Jan planning group on FB, if you'd like?

So sad we only miss eachother by a matter of days... But one day we will meet - I am sure of it. That's awesome that Drew wanted to meet me too. I'd love to meet all of you. I am hoping to have one more year of an AP - so I can do the 2017 races in WDW... So, hopefully that means a few trips for me.

2.5... OH WOW!!!! I thought he was for sure 2... Cannot believe he is going to be 3 already! I remember when you were pregnant with him. They grow way too fast!

Sending you all the Pixie Dust I can for cars and trips!!! THanks for checking in Ashley - I've missed you!

​

D~

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Yes! I tell my husband I feel like I am sending my babies away. I am sure people think I just want the photos for my website, but I love seeing something I made in it's new home. I think my stomach sinks every time when we have someone local picking a piece up, or when I see it's been delivered by UPS. I am sure you saw my craziness on Facebook, but my shop has been targeted by spam bots and others basically cyberbullying me once my items gained popularity. I am just kind of stunned, but I have a feeling you may understand that aspect. There is something about when certain people sit behind computers, they don't really respect the fact that they are targeting another person. It was never a customer, thankfully, but I am definitely leaving Etsy.

You should! It's a fun time of year to just go. There's really a buzz around with all the people in town just for the race, but the parks aren't terribly crowded either. It's fun just to cheer runners on when they block off the areas. I remember reading about the AK race. I hope they bring it back too! From what I read it seemed like a good beginner race.

Yes, please send me the link. I will be on there under drew's name.

He turns 3 in April. I still feel like he is my little baby. We had planned to go for his 3rd birthday but we're kind of spoiled with the off-season rates. I looked at the room rates for April and I just couldn't do it.

Congratulations to Allison for getting her license and staying with the bux. It's been 4 years since I worked for them, but I graduated college with them and went on to be a store manager. They had a great tuition assistance program at the time and if it's still in place she may be surprised by what programs they will assist with. At one point it was available to even part-time employees.

Victoria's art is incredible! I may need to see her about Jonah's Jake themed room.

Drew said I could totally trade you one of our items for a bag! So when you decide you do want something let me know.

Thanks D! Big hugs to you as well. I am trying to get things a little more settled into a routine so I can have more time to chat on the DIS, lol. I miss planning my trips here.

I'm so sorry to hear about your dad. Crossing my fingers that he will be better soon.

I'm so glad you liked the book I gave you. It was so nice meeting you and I would have loved to spend more time with you, but I'm glad we got to meet and at least spend a few hours together. I do hope our path does cross again some day.

Yesterday we were in Madison, WI and looked at the place where I lived and went to school. It was fun seeing it again. Today we went to Stoughton, WI and looked around and visited Norwegian heritage center. At the heritage center we met this nice volunteer who was wondering where we were from and when she heard we were from Norway she wondered what made us come to Stoughton. We told here that we are on a road trip. She then asked what was our best state so far. I said that I don't know what state has been the best so far, but the highlight places we have been is Yellowstone and Mt. Rushmore. She replied oh, I've never been there but I wish I could go there. Afterwards Ulf and I am wondering where does Americans go on Holiday since it wouldn't be a huge effort to go to Yellowstone or Mt.Rushmore from Wisconsin, but still they don't go there?

It was fun to learn about the Emigration from Norway to America. We then went to Aurora, IL where we will spend the night. Tomorrow we are crazy enough to go to Chicago,IL and spend the day there. We think it will be very crowded because of Labor Day.

Ok, between Josh, your Dad and yourself....you guys all need to just stop it! Stay away from the doctors for a while. K? K.

So glad you got to meet Lillian! I know how much you like your Dismeets

I can't believe we are making FPs this week! It seems like this countdown has been taking forever...and all of a sudden we are a couple months away! Yay!

Yes, a bathroom....kinda nessecary. There might be beds....might be a few....

All caught up for now. I love how the girls seem to be getting along. I know my brother and I fought horribly growing up. I HATED him with a passion. But when he went away to college....it all changed. He still drives me crazy sometimes, but I love him very very much now. There is hope for your girls

I'm sorry to read about your Dad...getting old is the worst. I just found out yesterday that my grandmother got taken in a lottery scam and is out at least $12,000. I work for the local Sheriff's Dept so I hear about this stuff almost every day but I didn't think it would happen to anyone in my family. It's really sad how some people can take advantage of those who aren't as with it mentally as they used to be. So I hope your Dad is on the mend soon and you're having a great weekend!

I hope your Dad is doing better soon!

NJlauren said:

Sending positive thoughts and vibes to you and your dad. And hugs!

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Thank you! It's so sad and hard to watch, but hopefully we have it figured out. I still wish there was something that could be done about his severe edema... It just looks so uncomfortable. I had bad edema when I was pregnant with Allison - but nothing like this.

sewmess said:

Prayers for your dad and you. Leg issues are scary for older/less healthy diabetics.

Yeah -- I got the jump rope to augment the heavy bag, did a couple of basic days and could tell a difference immediately. I'm still trying to find the perfect place to jump though, I'm a little tall for the garage (which is where the heavy bag is) and our driveway slopes, which throws off the rhythm. Luckily, we live on a dead end, so I should be able to jump on the street.

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Thanks Ruth - it is very scary.

Awesome! I love this - as a kid, I loved jumping rope! I hope you continue on with it!

KathyM2 said:

That is so awesome that you have such a nice trail so close to home!!!

I often wonder this when I see anyone wearing Disney stuff or with it on their desks or whatever....It almost feels like maybe you share a secret....

Disney runs look so awesome. I'd like to do one even if I have to walk the whole thing, just to be there.

You are doing amazing with your running and training. You are so determined and motivated too.

I think I've finally caught up around here!!! You have had a busy few weeks too!

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Yes, I love that this trail is near me... I didn't realize how many trails I have, until I started running. It's quite awesome actually.

Hehehehe... I know - we were at the Dr the other day and a lady was carrying a Disney purse and talking to her friend about her upcoming trip... I wanted to jump in to their conversation, but I refrained. LOL

YES!!! I am hoping to - one day!

Thanks - I just hope that one day I can do a half marathon... I am not sure I ever have any interest to do more than that? We'll see.

Thanks for stopping by!

MrsDrewsky said:

Yes! I tell my husband I feel like I am sending my babies away. I am sure people think I just want the photos for my website, but I love seeing something I made in it's new home. I think my stomach sinks every time when we have someone local picking a piece up, or when I see it's been delivered by UPS. I am sure you saw my craziness on Facebook, but my shop has been targeted by spam bots and others basically cyberbullying me once my items gained popularity. I am just kind of stunned, but I have a feeling you may understand that aspect. There is something about when certain people sit behind computers, they don't really respect the fact that they are targeting another person. It was never a customer, thankfully, but I am definitely leaving Etsy.

You should! It's a fun time of year to just go. There's really a buzz around with all the people in town just for the race, but the parks aren't terribly crowded either. It's fun just to cheer runners on when they block off the areas. I remember reading about the AK race. I hope they bring it back too! From what I read it seemed like a good beginner race.

Yes, please send me the link. I will be on there under drew's name.

He turns 3 in April. I still feel like he is my little baby. We had planned to go for his 3rd birthday but we're kind of spoiled with the off-season rates. I looked at the room rates for April and I just couldn't do it.

Congratulations to Allison for getting her license and staying with the bux. It's been 4 years since I worked for them, but I graduated college with them and went on to be a store manager. They had a great tuition assistance program at the time and if it's still in place she may be surprised by what programs they will assist with. At one point it was available to even part-time employees.

Victoria's art is incredible! I may need to see her about Jonah's Jake themed room.

Drew said I could totally trade you one of our items for a bag! So when you decide you do want something let me know.

Thanks D! Big hugs to you as well. I am trying to get things a little more settled into a routine so I can have more time to chat on the DIS, lol. I miss planning my trips here.

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I know exactly what you mean... It's hard sending our hard work out into the world. And there's nothing better than seeing people enjoy it. :thumbusup2

I did not see that on your page... How awful! I sure hope you were able to get it figured out and taken care of?

I so badly want to do a Disney race some day - it's always been a dream of mine, but now that I am in this place in life - it's really become a realistic dream for me, and one that I hope I can work towards.

I sent you the link to the Jan planning group.

I cannot believe Jonah is almost 3, that blows my mind! you can still celebrate his 3rd birthday in WDW, no matter when you go. I would anyways.

That's awesome about Starbucks... Sadly - because our Starbucks is inside a Target store, she is technically a Target employee, and doesn't qualify for any of the Starbucks discounts/college opportunities... And as far as I know - Target offers nothing.

Thanks! I love seeing V's art work - it really blows my mind sometimes!

Hehehe... that would be awesome! It will be a while - sadly - I will have to wait until the girls go off to college. Hopefully they take some of this excess furniture with them. LOL

Thanks for stopping by Ashley - as always - it was great to see you!

Terkina said:

I'm so sorry to hear about your dad. Crossing my fingers that he will be better soon.

I'm so glad you liked the book I gave you. It was so nice meeting you and I would have loved to spend more time with you, but I'm glad we got to meet and at least spend a few hours together. I do hope our path does cross again some day.

Yesterday we were in Madison, WI and looked at the place where I lived and went to school. It was fun seeing it again. Today we went to Stoughton, WI and looked around and visited Norwegian heritage center. At the heritage center we met this nice volunteer who was wondering where we were from and when she heard we were from Norway she wondered what made us come to Stoughton. We told here that we are on a road trip. She then asked what was our best state so far. I said that I don't know what state has been the best so far, but the highlight places we have been is Yellowstone and Mt. Rushmore. She replied oh, I've never been there but I wish I could go there. Afterwards Ulf and I am wondering where does Americans go on Holiday since it wouldn't be a huge effort to go to Yellowstone or Mt.Rushmore from Wisconsin, but still they don't go there?

It was fun to learn about the Emigration from Norway to America. We then went to Aurora, IL where we will spend the night. Tomorrow we are crazy enough to go to Chicago,IL and spend the day there. We think it will be very crowded because of Labor Day.

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Thanks Lillian!

I loved the book... I have a few questions - so once you get home, I'll bombard you with them. LOL

Hahaha... Sounds like you are having an amazing trip still!

There are a lot of people that go to Yellowstone and Mt. Rushmore - but it tends to only be a summer destination... And in the summer, a lot of people from Wisconsin go to Wisconsin Dells... Then there's me... I am more interested in Disney - so I would prefer to go there. We did have a trip planned to Yellowstone/Mt. Rushmore/Black Hills this summer - but Josh didn't have enough vacation time left after all of his hunting/fishing/4th of July trips. So we never went.... One day we will go though - probably once we have grand children.

Have fun in Chicago - it's a beautiful city!!! I loved it when I was there visiting Mo!

Safe travels to you and thanks for checking in!

RunnerMommyof4 said:

Prayers for your dad! The last few days have gotten away from me! Your DisMeet looks like so much fun! Oh we will have to walk over to FQ and say to Santos for you while we are there Glad your runs are still going well, yes these early nights start to cause issues with timing. I haven't gotten any in this week. I've had exhaustion in a way I've never felt before and I'm constantly thirsty. The Dr. wants me to try "clean" eating and kick my caffeine habit and see if that helps. I know it's what I use to do but I've gotten in a bad habit the past few years. Time to kick it to the curb! Enjoy your weekend

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Thank you!

Yes - you will - he is such a sweet guy! Looking forward to seeing him again in a few months!

I sure hope your exhaustion and thirst goes away soon. Yes, clean eating will make a huge difference - it's made a huge difference in my life! Caffeine is hard to kick - still working on it here, I've almost given up. Best of luck to you!

solana131 said:

Ok, between Josh, your Dad and yourself....you guys all need to just stop it! Stay away from the doctors for a while. K? K.

So glad you got to meet Lillian! I know how much you like your Dismeets

I can't believe we are making FPs this week! It seems like this countdown has been taking forever...and all of a sudden we are a couple months away! Yay!

Yes, a bathroom....kinda nessecary. There might be beds....might be a few....

All caught up for now. I love how the girls seem to be getting along. I know my brother and I fought horribly growing up. I HATED him with a passion. But when he went away to college....it all changed. He still drives me crazy sometimes, but I love him very very much now. There is hope for your girls

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I know - I know, we'll try.

I know - it was so fun meeting her! A once in a lifetime opportunity... I sure hope we meet again though.

Eeeep!!!! Soooo excited!!!!

Hehehe.... I sure hope that they learn to love eachother - soon. They still have their days, for sure.

Love you girl!!! Our countdown is sure getting slim!

huggybuff said:

I'm sorry to read about your Dad...getting old is the worst. I just found out yesterday that my grandmother got taken in a lottery scam and is out at least $12,000. I work for the local Sheriff's Dept so I hear about this stuff almost every day but I didn't think it would happen to anyone in my family. It's really sad how some people can take advantage of those who aren't as with it mentally as they used to be. So I hope your Dad is on the mend soon and you're having a great weekend!

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Thank you!

Oh no - that is so awful!!!! I can see my dad falling for something like that too. People can be so horrible, horrible. I hope that your grandmother is able to recover some of her $$. ::

Thank you - you too!

Born 2B a Princess said:

I hope your Dad is doing better soon!

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Thank you, I hope so too!

***************************************************************************

We had a nice weekend... I didn't get nearly as much accomplished as I'd wanted to. Oh well, I guess that even I need a day off once in a while, right?

I honestly cannot even tell you what we did on Saturday... Oh - I worked. That's right. And Josh grilled. It was yummy.

My Road ID came in the mail - finally.... It's such a relief to have this!


Josh's cousin Matt (our favorite hockey player) is staying with us for a few weeks - he had a gap is housing between when he graduated college and moving to Ill to play under hockey contract he signed. So, it's fun to have another kid in the house for a while - even if he is a 23 year old adult.

On Sunday, I went for a run... It felt really good and I had a decent (for me) pace. My last mile was better than my first. It was really hot and muggy, I didn't want to start in the rain (it was pouring all morning), but boy, while I was out there, I was hoping for rain. As soon as I finished my run and got in the car - it rained. LOL Figures...


Yesterday, the kids talked me into taking them to Valleyfair.... We met up with a few neighbors - we had a great time! And all of the kids had a lot of fun together. Some of them with Victoria...


Then Allison and Gus on Steel Venom...


And then, me - after we came home from Valley Fair... I was wearing V's tank top, I'd gotten a little sun while we were out... And I love how my shoulders/arms/neck/face are starting to thin out and my muscles are a little more visible. (Don't mind the dirty dishes in the background... I was just getting to doing them after I took my selfie. )


All in all - we had a nice holiday weekend at home.

Today... I will be lifting shortly.

Then I will be at Target all day... Sigh. Some day - I will give it up.... I feel like I dread it more and more as time goes on.

The girls start school tomorrow... So, life is about to get more crazy!

I hope you all had a wonderful weekend! Prayers and good thoughts go out to all of you!

D~