Biggest Loser Princess and Tinker Bell 2011 and 2012 -- OLD please see NEW thread

[Rose&Mike]

Lindsay--big, big hugs to you! Shame on your work for bugging you so much. Mike had a week like that when we were at WDW where they had to keep faxing him stuff to sign. He tried to hide it from me after a couple of days cause he knew it was driving me nuts! It was driving him nuts, too, but I'm a little more vocal!

Did you maybe have a little panic attack last night, I wouldn't blame you if you did? Tom was tough at that age. I remember one time in the McDonald's parking lot he was throwing a temper tantrum about something and Mike had him by the feet and I had him by the arms to put him in the car and he got out the other side! Now it's funny, but at the time I wanted to kill him! Of course he doesn't remember it! I think loss of electronics is a good punishment. It's hard for kids at that age to be off their schedules and while being home for the week sounds fabulous to us, to them it just means no schedule. And with Tom, I know in retrospect, some of it was the adhd. Don't get me wrong, he was a good kid, but he really needed a schedule and order in his life or things got chaotic and ugly. Hang in there. A day a the beach sounds AWESOME to me! We might try to drive down to Charleston when we take Tom back to school just so we can see the water.

Kathy--that is some serious perserverance to get that run in!

Lisa--I think I missed saying happy birthday to Robert. Did you mention it was his bday this week? And I totally need to get a different phone so I can have it make light sabre noises!

*******
Woohoo, I only had 2 gf beers at the game last night! My eating has been awful, but I did stick to a baked potato with broccoli and beer. I am .6 over maintain but hoping it will be down today or tomorrow. And I slept in until 9:30 today which I think was much needed. We have been burning the candle at both ends. We opened the boxes from his cousin and it was a ton of pictures and some weird stuff from India. Now I need to figure out what to do with it all. Mike is an extreme kind of guy--he will either throw all of it out or keep all of it. I had a little panic attack last night before we went to the game--just a little overwhelmed with everything. I am still getting a stomach ache everytime I eat--leftover from the gluten from Monday I guess. Or maybe just some really bad choices this week.

So I have a question/dilemma. Mike found out today that he is going to get to interview for the jobs in Melbourne. It will start with a screening phone interview and go from there. (We have so much going on right now it's a little crazy!) Anyhow, I work for a non-profit and we are in the process of beginning to beta test new software for our donor database. I am the only person in the office who really understands and uses our current database right now--my boss went in yesterday to try to fix something and made a mess which I now have to try to unsort. She will be the first to say that it's "my database".

Our employee manual says that once you give notice, you cannot take any personal/ paid time off. When you leave the company you get paid back any unused paid time off (which we receive monthly) but you lose the personal days. I would like to tell them that Mike is starting to interview for this to give them as much heads up as possible, but I don't want it perceived as giving notice. Because it might not be. And we just started our new fiscal year and I lost a ton of time off that didn't roll over and I really would like to use some of the stuff that rolled over. On the other hand, someone else needs to learn to use the database if I am going to leave. I figure even once we know what's going on, I will probably give at least a months notice. Do I just call that good enough??? If I tell them now what might be happening do you think they will call that the day I gave notice? What I am trying to avoid is the conversation "why didn't you tell us Mike was interviewing......". I am probably just overthinking this way too much. Then yesterday I put in for vacation for w&d and my boss was joking and said "you can't take vacation." She was joking, but it was a little weird with everything else that's going on. So what do you think?

Ok, time to get going!

Have a good day!

 

[Worfiedoodles]

Good Afternoon, and Pals!

I'm home after my half day at work. I had pizza with ds to celebrate the beginning of our staycation. I don't think it's going to really feel like one until we pick up the girls, we have a lot to do to get ready for our guests!

Rose -- I am not an HR expert, but I believe giving notice should be done in writing -- so mentioning it to them shouldn't count for that -- but you never know how people will take things. I think giving them notice when you really are leaving is enough. I think it would be nice if you mentioned that since we are having this new system, it makes a great deal of sense to also train a backup, someone who is able to use it if you are unavailable. For the investment they are making, that is only logical. What happens if you get hit by a bus? Or move to a fabulous new location and find your bliss You should not be the only one who can use that system!

At least you know what is in the SIL boxes now. I think it's better than wondering if there's a shrunken head or penile sheath

The mom said, "Tristan will eat anything. Just make sure she doesn't have any gluten or she will have a total meltdown like a 2 yr. old". Great, she will eat anything, but she shouldn't! I told dh he has to call his cousin tonight and get the scoop on what she normally eats. I don't know why I didn't think to phrase it that way. Thanks, Rose!

Kathy -- I am so impressed you literally drove to keep your workout going! You are the woman! That is the kind of dedication that will take you far. The shaving has been coming for a year. Puberty did not start late with this one, I think we first started seeing the signs at 11. I told him the activities Dennis and I have tentatively scheduled for them for next week and he didn't balk, so I'd like to think this may go well. Or they could all pout all week. One never knows I'm glad your child care issues are good to go for the rest of the summer. It is such a worry when you don't know exactly what you're doing with them! I think parts of Zookeeper were filmed at Franklin Park, you'll have to tell us what you think!

Lisah -- That poof fairy has to go! We waited for about a year on the shaver for a few reasons. We found one for about $30, and told him if there are issues he has to replace it himself. He's been pretty careful with it so far. Weaning from diet soda is hard work I am really proud of you for working on it. How is that birthday boy? Any fun stories to tell us about that special day? I bet you're less tired now than you were at the end of that day The kitties have come to realize we are here to serve them, which is fine. They are so very playful and loving, we really enjoy them. We figured out Spock is a Maine Coon cat, he is a behemoth. It's a good thing he likes

Lindsay -- What a week you have had! It is so disappointing when we have expectations and they just don't quite get met. And not really getting away from your work, annoying relatives, cranky kids -- of course this is not the week you envisioned! I hope you are having an incredibly fabulous day today, and I know you will be a great coach! So far everyone on this thread (over the various challenges), has been an encouraging, entertaining, and fun coach -- there's a reason I like hanging out with you people!

Nancy -- So, do we have confirmation Bronxbaby is still a boy? Wouldn't that throw you for a loop if he wasn't?! I hope you are having a long, luscious nap

Still no movement from me on the healthy diet or exercise front. At this point I think I may hold out to go full out until after the kidlets depart. I'll try to do little things right until then, and once my life is my own (Tristan goes back to NH Tuesday, Bethany goes back to FL Sat., Ben goes to CT Sun.), I will feel energized and ready to lose, lose, lose!

Ben is spending a week in CT as part of a program with our church. Our youth group (and others around NE) are going to a selected town in CT, where they will do minor home repairs and yard work for people who can't do it themselves. In the evenings they do fun games and activities. No electronics or phones allowed. This should be interesting Actually, it must not be too bad because the kids who went last year had so much fun they wanted to do it again. You have to have completed 7th grade, so this is the first year Ben is eligible.

We're picking the girls up this Sunday as part of a family meal at a restaurant in NH. It's going to be interesting to see what the mother orders for Tristan. I'll be making notes

Thanks for not taking me to task for my vent. I realize it is sensitive since the poor child cannot help her issues or what her mother does. I am ill-equipped to serve in loco parentis for her, but I will do my best to make sure all the kids have fun and enjoy being together.

Just an hour and it will be time for my hair appt. and stop at the Hallmark. You know there's a new VB calling my name

Maria

 

[Rose&Mike]

thanks Maria. I think I will continue to hold off telling them anything until it is real. They will have folks that know the new database, it's the current one we are using that no one else can use--at least not very well. But you know what, that's the way it is. No point in stirring the pot early. Have fun at Halmark!

Lisa--meant to comment earlier. Woohoo on giving up the diet soda. I fully get how incredibly difficult it is, even if you are still having caffeine. I honestly felt like I was going through withdrawal symptoms. I was edgy and cranky and knew if I just had ONE SODA I would feel calmer. But I honestly think it was the best thing (aside from going g-f) that I have ever done for my healthy. I don't have the horrible carb cravings that I used to have and I just don't feel so chemically contaminated--if that makes sense. Anyhow, I think it's fabulous! You can do it!

I am working on the kitchen--I said I was not going to clean and purge today, but it is helping me to not get to keyed up and feel a little bit in control of things. I've done 4 cabinets. Guess it's time to get back to work.

 

[mommyof2Pirates]

Thank you all for just listening and being there for me. You all mean so much to me.

I am happy to report I am feeling much better today. My kids are being well behaved. Ryan is back to his old self. Life is good.

Rose- I agree with maria...I wouldnt really say what is going on in the event that you dont move but I would try to have them get you a back up. In my office I have 2 people for every important task. One who is the Guru and a back up that at least can hop in and pick up the task quickly if needed. So if they dont listen and do that then its on them. I think if you are planning to give them a months notice that is more than enough.

oh and I definitely agree...I think part of the issue with Ryan is we are now really out of routine. I though having him off this summer and at different places each week would be good for him but now I am second guessing it. He is a child that needs a routine....actually I need routine too. I went bonkers during my maternity leaves. But I really think you hit the nail on the head.

Maria- I hope you find the perfect bag today.

Lisa- I think I may pick up on your lead and try giving up diet soda again...for the umteenth time. Great job!!!

Kathy- I wish you were closer too. Have fun on your day off.

Nancy- I hope you are catching some ZZZZZ's.

Well I am heading home in a bit...right now I am relaxing at my parents. I need to get home to do a load of wash and pack up for our big day at the beach tomorrow. Its suppose to be great weather. I am really excited.

I will post the QOTD tonight on the BL board but will be off most of the day tomorrow...its been awfully quite on the boards during the wkend so I think it will be ok but if anyone wants to hop on in my place feel free.

TTYL Princessy lisabelles..

 

[dumbo_buddy]

I'm going to stop unwrapping and eating Hershey dark miniatures for just a minute so I can post

i have to say that hershey dark is pretty much the ONLY candy i DONT like! i will save all the dark ones for you at halloween

Nancy -- I am so glad you are getting your trip! Tell us all your plans! I know you are going to BLT -- do you do afternoon naps with the little guy and the Bronxbaby? I haven't been keeping track, is there free dining while you'll be there? I know that always makes it harder for me to get ADRs.

thanks maria, i'm so excited to finally know that we're going - oh and a bonus? plane fares actually went DOWN a couple bucks since last week!

we are hard core touring people. never go back to take a break. thomas has always just taken little snoozes here and there in his stroller. however, this trip will be a bit different having a toddler and being 30 weeks pg. we may have to try the afternoon nap in the room thing. however, i don't see thomas being very good at that. we'll see! staying at BLT will make it easy to go back and forth to MK



One more work day and I'm on vacation for a week and a day. Sunday we are picking up my niece12, and dh's cousin's daughter, who is physically 14 but mentally more like 6, and gluten-free unless we want major meltdowns. This is where Rose is going to save me! I know next to nothing about gluten, other than not to give her regular beer We have fruit and veggies for snacks, but our chips are Pringles or Ruffles, and we usually do pancakes for the kids for breakfast. I'm not sure what to give her? We can do eggs and bacon for breakfast. We're probably going to be out and about for lunch, and we can do something grilled for dinner. Should we just avoid all bread and cake products? Ice cream is good, right? I don't want to keep her from anything, but her mother has warned us if she has any gluten at all she will have a fit Is candy ok? Gum and gummy things are out because they all have braces. I know I should probably actually research this, but honestly, I figured I'd get better information asking someone who really knows We're only keeping her until Tuesday night, so it really isn't that long. The gluten free is only the icing on the cake (ok, I know this is going to sound wrong, and I don't mean to lack compassion, it's just her mother tells us how easy she is, and I don't see it -- perhaps because I can't just meet her needs, I have to consider the other kids). Her speech is difficult to understand. She really can't read, she doesn't do anything with height or water, and she's afraid of a lot. She doesn't watch tv or movies or play wii games. She can't make things with playdoh or clay, she can't copy or create in that way. As the kids have gotten older, it's been really hard to come up with things they can all do together. Ben and Bethany are really good about including her and helping her, but I can tell it's frustrating for them -- I actually think it's good for them to see they are lucky not to have her issues, and to learn that she can function as long as they provide support. That said, she'd be happy going to StoryLand, and the other two would be bored beyond tears. I know people with kids in different age ranges go through this all the time, it's just new to me. Like I said, when they were younger it was pretty easy to entertain them all together.

ugh

It also makes the other kids crazy because she's been constantly texting them that she's going to high school next year and their not. Well, she is, but she's not taking the standard curriculum. They are good kids and they do understand, they just get frustrated with her sometimes because she acts so young. She plays with baby dolls and doesn't share any interests with the other kids. I think it's hard to get the disconnect since she looks older than they are.

UGH!


Have I rambled enough about this? Ok, one more thing. The ladies in dh's family tend to be well-endowed. When I saw her at Christmas, she seemed to be carrying on the tradition -- but not wearing a bra because her mother won't make her wear one if she doesn't want to. Ben is embarrassed to be around her with them flapping in the wind, and I don't blame him. We want him to treat her like he does his other cousins, but I get that he doesn't want to hug a girl who's girls are just sitting out there. I am really hoping her mother has changed that view or she's changed her mind and she's contained. If they want her to go to high school and function in a normal setting, they should give her all the tools she needs. Proper undergarments are one of those tools! I know, I don't know the battles her mom fights on a daily basis, and that one just might be too hard -- I just think nothing good can come of not shoring things up...

Oh, the mother also makes me crazy because she refuses to vaccinate (at all), and likes to tell me I torture my child needlessly by requiring shots, and I'm lucky he's not autistic since we get every shot his pediatrician recommends. I don't even want to go there, but really, I don't give her grief because she's letting disease run rampant...

So, that's my challenge for next week. We plan to take the kids on a trolley tour of Boston Monday, and see what we can come up with for Tuesday. We're saving the water, height and adventure activities for later in the week.

Ok, it must be someone else's turn to complain, I am just full of it today...

Maria

did i mention UGH!!?? you are doing the right thing by having her come stay with you but i can really see how very difficult it will be.

oh and the no vaccination thing? so annoying! a bunch of know-it-all hoity toities in westchester who read one article by jenny mcarthy and then decided not to vaccinate their kids caused an outbreak over the winter in MUMPS AND MEASLES!!! i mean seriously??? it's really ridiculous. our pediatrician said when we first met her that she vaccinates on time and if we have issues with that then we should find another doctor. i was like, vaccinate away baby! in fact, give him double dose if it means he won't get these diseases!

quick gluten tutorial:

candy--snickers and plain mms are ok. I don't really eat anything else. I think ghiradhelli is ok as well.

chips--I only eat plain lays. Gluten is often hidden in seasoning and there can be cross contamination if a chip is made at the same plant as a chip with gluten.

Snyder's has a g-f pretzel that's pretty tasty. Scoops are great and gluten free--but not all tortilla chips are, so we stick with scoops.

Be careful of pre-shredded cheese. I shred my own, but I read that they can use starch/gluten to keep it from clumping together. I don't know if this is true.

Lots of fast food restaurants have allergy stuff available online, including McDonalds. Did you know that Big Mac sauce has gluten in it? We eat Moe's when we get takeout--but not their chips. Almost everything except the tortillas and chips are g-f. They have an allergy menu online.

Nathan's all beef hot dogs are gluten free.

Places to watch for gluten/cross contamination:
*stuff sliced at the deli--some lunch meat is supposed to have gluten in it and even if something is gluten free there can be cross contamination. Boar's Head is supposed to be all g-f. Again, I don't eat lunch meat, so this might be worth googling.
*Soups/Dips/Sauces
*anything with soy sauce in it--some soy sauce has gluten in it.
*anything that may be made at a factory where they make stuff with gluten in it. Example: I don't think any godiva chocolate is g-f anymore because they are now making one with gluten in it.
*same goes for ice cream. Turkey Hill and Breyers seem to do a good job with listing allergens on the back.
*anything fried is pretty much a no go at restaurants due to cross contamination.

Udi's makes a resonable bread that you can find at Whole Foods and some grocery stores. Again you have to watch for cross contamination from stuff like peanut butter and mayo. Most of our condiments are squirt now because it decreases the chance of cross contamination. I have my own pb and jelly.

Bisquick makes a g-f mix that tastes ok that you can probably make pancakes with--I made biscuits. There are also pancake mixes. It's all ridiculously expensive but tastes ok. Watch for cross contamination on the butter.

I don't know much about meat, cause the only thing I eat is the occasional hot dog.

Products are supposed to list allergens on the back, but just because something says is does not contain gluten, does not mean necessarily that it is certified gluten free. I still read ingredients and if I think there is a chance of cross contamination, I just avoid it.

It's a pita, what a wonderful person to give the Mom a break for a few days.

Let me know if you have any specific questions.

shoo! rose, no wonder why you are exhausted with eating! one thing seems to be gluten free and then the next isn't. crazy.

Maria--did the Mom not give you any idea about what she eats regularly? Cause I feel like it's a huge thing to just say here she is, don't let her eat gluten!
for your niece (cousin??? can't remember).

Don't stress too much about it, maybe the mom can tell you what she regularly eats.

this! if i my child had an allergy, i would send alot not only a list of can and can't eats but i'd also send a package of all the food so that the host wouldn't have to spend any extra money on my child. you can't just be like, "oh don't give her any gluten b/c then she will be crazy." what the heck does that even mean?

Hello Ladies....

I havent posted much because honestly I hate to be a debbie downer and lately I am just not feeling very positive. Every stressor in my life basically came to a head tonight and I felt like I had a nervous breakdown...or temper tantrum....but nervous breakdown sounds so much more mature.

Heres a list of the things that are bothering me: (I am starting with the negatives and will end this post with the positives)

1. I havent run in over a week. I have eaten poorly. I feel out of control with my eating and I feel like a big fat blob.

2. My kids..primarily Ryan have been giving me a run for my money this week. Can we say Attitude with a capital A. and at the age of 6...really????

3. Even though I had the week off, I have been contacted by the office by phone or email this entire week. I had to attend a meeting today for our expansion.

4. I am doing a half million dollar expansion at my office and my boss moved on to his new job and now I feel like I have no support and am doing it all on my own without an idea of what I am even doing.

5. I am tired of worrying about money and bills that need to be paid. Why cant I just have enough to go around and plenty leftover to do all the fun stuff too. (now Im just throwing a pity party)

Ok I think overall thats it and really it all seems like not that big of a deal when I type it but boy has it been driving me crazy this week.

Tonight I took the boys to my cousins bball game and while there Ryan was "lipping" off at me. I warned him that if he talked like that again he would loose his DS. We got back to my nanas and he started rough housing with my uncle. I told him numerous times to stop and he kept at it so then I made him sit. He "lipped" off so I took away his ds. This started the meltdown and then my aunt made comments about how he is always misbehaving and crying about something. She never had kids and is my aunt by marriage so that just got to me. I picked up the kids and left. by that point every other stressor came to mind and I pretty much cried all the way home.

Im not sure why I let everything bottle up until I explode like an emotional mess. I think I need to work on that.

So sorry I havent posted a whole lot. I am a day dream believer and my dreams of how nice my week would be with my boys is not playing out. I think that also upsets and depresses me.

Anyway I am actually feeling a bit better after my good cry and venting to you all. So thanks for listening.

aw, lindsay, no wonder why you're stressed! i'm not looking forward to the talking back phase with my kids. i am pretty sure i will go nuts when they do that. you have so much going on. and shame on work for calling you in. it's called vacation people!!

thing is, there's no such thing as a real vacation anymore. when i was working i was glued to my blackberry. i remember having a 9pm conference call with some clients in japan while the fireworks were going off at WDW! i mean, would the world end if i was like, "listen japanman-san, can this wait til monday??"

i hope today went better. maybe being the coach will help get you back on track? i'd like to say it helped me but i didn't work as hard as i probably should have. i'm enjoying your QOTD so far! i'm off to answer it when i finish up here!

Good morning Princesses and Belles!

This is my second try this morning because of a visit from the poof fairy.


Thanks for the tip, Nancy. Unfortunately I had the first gen iPhone so no buy back but the AT&T store guy suggested Craigslist. I have figured out what I will do yet.

So sorry about Thomas waking up so early this morning. Can you tell what is waking him up? Does he have room darkening shades? Maybe a fan for some white noise 'cause the paper guy comes then? Heavy, wet diaper? Teeth? Or tell DH it's take your son to work day?

You have to get the app called Lightsaber for your phone. It's free and basically has no practical application but you never know when you are going to need to whip out your phone and zap somebody who is bugging you with your lightsaber! You can change colors of the light and the base and it even plays music. Mostly I like to just wave it around and listen to the cool lightsaber sounds.

Kathy, they are talking about matching shirts on the BL thread. You should post a pic of your cute tie dye shirts!

This may not have been a good week to wean myself off of Diet Coke. I am so darn tired. I'm still doing caffeine but still feel like zombie woman.

Hello to the rest of our Princesses and Belles!

Have a great day, ladies!

that stupid poof fairy. she always visits at the worst times. how about a visit from the "lose-5-lbs-instantly" fairy? that would be nice.

i can't figure out what's waking him. 3:30 is just a crazy time to wake up. even 5am was bad but i'd take that over 3:30. he has room darkening shades that are ok. our houses are so close together that even the dog next door barking could probably wake him. we've had the air on in his room and that provides the white noise. blah. who knows. i wonder if he has nightmares? or 2 year molars coming in?

i'm going to look into the lightsaber for my phone!! i want one NOW!!

and yes, kathy please do share about your tie dyed shirts. i kinda sorta want to match on this trip maybe for one day. but i'm still going back and forth on it.

Good morning, ladies!!

I got cancelled today!!! Whoo hoo!! This was the last day I had no camp for ds, so for the next 6 weeks, I won't try to get cancelled, so I'm going to enjoy it.

Went out for a walk/run this morning, it started to rain, so we drove to the park to do the track, but after 1 mile, it was raining, and thunder was rolling in, so instead of going home, we went to the other track across town, and I did another 2 miles there before the storm hit. I needed to start the day off right, and hope to keep on the right track. We're going to go see Zookeeper, and then have lunch at panera, go grocery shopping that I skipped last night and we went to a friends house instead.

Off to make some illegal popcorn to bring to the movies.

Have a great day!!

nice work on the run/walk! not only did you get some in before the storm but you went someplace else to try to beat it out! now THAT is dedication!!! you go!!

and you know how i feel about bringing food into the movie theater! nice work! i tend to bring full lunches! lol! last movie was a delicious bologna and cheese sandwhich, chips, soda and candy. hahaha

*******
Woohoo, I only had 2 gf beers at the game last night! My eating has been awful, but I did stick to a baked potato with broccoli and beer. I am .6 over maintain but hoping it will be down today or tomorrow. And I slept in until 9:30 today which I think was much needed. We have been burning the candle at both ends. We opened the boxes from his cousin and it was a ton of pictures and some weird stuff from India. Now I need to figure out what to do with it all. Mike is an extreme kind of guy--he will either throw all of it out or keep all of it. I had a little panic attack last night before we went to the game--just a little overwhelmed with everything. I am still getting a stomach ache everytime I eat--leftover from the gluten from Monday I guess. Or maybe just some really bad choices this week.

So I have a question/dilemma. Mike found out today that he is going to get to interview for the jobs in Melbourne. It will start with a screening phone interview and go from there. (We have so much going on right now it's a little crazy!) Anyhow, I work for a non-profit and we are in the process of beginning to beta test new software for our donor database. I am the only person in the office who really understands and uses our current database right now--my boss went in yesterday to try to fix something and made a mess which I now have to try to unsort. She will be the first to say that it's "my database".

Our employee manual says that once you give notice, you cannot take any personal/ paid time off. When you leave the company you get paid back any unused paid time off (which we receive monthly) but you lose the personal days. I would like to tell them that Mike is starting to interview for this to give them as much heads up as possible, but I don't want it perceived as giving notice. Because it might not be. And we just started our new fiscal year and I lost a ton of time off that didn't roll over and I really would like to use some of the stuff that rolled over. On the other hand, someone else needs to learn to use the database if I am going to leave. I figure even once we know what's going on, I will probably give at least a months notice. Do I just call that good enough??? If I tell them now what might be happening do you think they will call that the day I gave notice? What I am trying to avoid is the conversation "why didn't you tell us Mike was interviewing......". I am probably just overthinking this way too much. Then yesterday I put in for vacation for w&d and my boss was joking and said "you can't take vacation." She was joking, but it was a little weird with everything else that's going on. So what do you think?

Ok, time to get going!

Have a good day!

omg that mcdonald's story is both hilarious and horrifying at the same time!! these darn kids!

i wouldn't stress about the .6 gain. sounds like that's all g-f beer bloat to me!

i will start this by saying that you don't have to take any of my advice: don't tell work about mike's interviewing. first off, you never know how the interview will work out. who knows, mike might talk to the guy and be like, no way no thanks. i wouldn't give notice until you're ready to give notice. the second work knows that you're not really "in it" they will probably start viewing you as someone out the door even if you're not there yet.

what you can do is work on a manual or something about how to do that database. that way you can help with the transition of the new person when it comes to that.

on a side note, isn't it ridiculous how companies will allow only one person to know how to do something?? my last position was head of investor relations at a multi billion dollar asset management firm and i was the only one who knew how to work the client database. i could spit out a report in a few minutes and nobody else knew how to do it! um, duh! so when i was put on bedrest they freaked! i wound up working half of my bedrest until i made the mistake of mentioning it to my OB and he had a cow.

anyway, i wouldn't mention anything to them at work about mike looking for another job. wait til it gets closer to an offer or a move.

how far is melbourne to disney??? man oh man that would be GREAT!!

 

[dumbo_buddy]

oh, and thanks for asking - yes, i DID get a little snooze in this afternoon! thank goodness because i really was losing it before nap time.

around 7:30am i got thomas in the stroller for a walk. no run, too humid and too tired. after about a mile he fell asleep (after crying). but 20 min later he woke up and tried to get out of the stroller. as in, screaming like i was killing him and standing up in it! and we were at least 15 min from home. uuuggghhhh. i was walking around maritime college and just ignored some of the workers looking at me like i was torturing my kid. i was so tired that i wound up yelling at him like he was an adult. yeah, like he really understands me telling him that we're a mile from home.

the rest of the morning passed equally as sucky but finally i made it to noon and thomas slept for 3.5 HOURS! i managed to lay down for a little but of course the stupid dog was being a PITA!!! still, i think i got about 45 min-1 hr.

it's not even 5 yet and the sky is BLACK! thudner and lightening is starting. so, we're stuck in the house on the couch watching tv. i really hope he sleeps tonight.

OMG! on the way home we got into my neighborhood and thomas calmed down. decided to take a walk on the trail. it's around the block from our street but the houses are all on this 40 foot bluff that overlooks the manhattan skyline. i wish i lived on the trail! anyway, there's a nice walking path and while on it i stopped to chat with a neighbor. saw another neighbor walking said hello and he didn't look at me. instead he pointed to my feet and said, snake! OMG OMG OMG SNAKE!!!! i must have rolled over it with my jogger b/c it was squirming all over the place. i ran home and didn't even say goodbye to them. i am SO VERY AFRAID of snakes!!!

EWWWWWWW!!!!!

 

[Rose&Mike]

It must be the week for ac problems. We are waiting for someone to come look at ours. And then hopefully we will get to see some of the bb game.

Nancy--snake. yuck! Where are you all going to eat at WDW????

******
So, exciting news. Mike got an email this morning from the hiring manager in Melbourne. He spent about 50 minutes talking to him on the phone this afternoon. And he is tenatively scheduled to go to Melbourne on July 29th! I am hoping I will be able to go too. It's Tom's last weekend at home, which I hate, but what can you do. Send lots of pd our way that his work doesn't all of a sudden decide he can't go interview. Tom said I am allowed to be excited as long as I am not catatonic if it doesn't work out.

And thanks for the idea about putting together something about what I do/how to work the database. It is pretty crazy when only one person in an office really knows how to do something. I think what makes me so uncomfortable is my boss keeps talking about all these changes and what we are going to do, etc. And all I can think is--I might not be here. I am just a peon really, so it shouldn't matter. I think I just worry too much!

Hopefully the ac guy will get here soon!

 

[mommyof2Pirates]

Nancy- I think I would have had a siezure if that was me and there was a snake. You poor thing. I am really afraid of any bug/snake/rodent too. It wasnt the cobra from the bronx zoo?????? Glad thomas got a good nap in...sorry you didnt get as much time but hopefully you get a good night sleep tonight.

Rose- Horray for the phone call going well and I hope you can take the trip with Mike too. I have to say it would be hard not to get excited. My dh would say the same thing Tom did. I have a tendency to get excited a bit too much and then if it doesnt pan out Im a mess. I guess he must know you too well huh? Well I am sending you lots of and plenty of prayers that it is exactly what the two of you are looking for and that if so it works out.

**********************************************************
Well the car is packed and the kids are in bed. I have to post on the BL boards and then take a shower and I will be off to bed too. I am going to try out my new phone tomorrow and post on FB from the beach. I will catch up with you all on sunday. Have a great weekend.

 

[lisah0711]

Good morning Princesses and Belles!

Hope that everyone is enjoying their Saturday!

I got cancelled today!!! Whoo hoo!! This was the last day I had no camp for ds, so for the next 6 weeks, I won't try to get cancelled, so I'm going to enjoy it. Lisa- I forgot to say how excited I am for you going to see Jeff Galloway. What a great treat for your birthday weekend. And I love the mikes hard black cherry and berry drinks. I like my liquor sweet. They're good, but higher calorie than my favorite cheap wine- Arbor Mist Sangria. 2 liter bottle for 7 bucks. I am a cheap drunk. I think you should leave work early today and start the birthday celebrations soon!! Happy Birthday to Robert!!!

Congratulations on getting cancelled! It's nice to be able to enjoy that last day before all those camps. I will have to try the Mike's -- I like sweet drinks, too, I've been having mai tais this week. And driving so you you can get your run in -- that totally rocks!

Robert says thanks for all the birthday wishes -- he had a great day yesterday.

Rose, congratulations to Mike on getting the interview! That is so exciting! I totally agree with the idea that you don't worry about mentioning anything at work until it looks like it is a done deal. And I have to say that story about McDonald's but it is funny now. The crazy things our kids do!

I totally get what you mean by feeling like you aren't getting a bunch of chemicals in your body when you give up the diet soda. I think I'm over the hump now. I really do feel like I'm actually getting the signals my body sends to my brain more, too. I've put things back that I've taken out to eat a few times now.

At least you know what is in the SIL boxes now. I think it's better than wondering if there's a shrunken head or penile sheath

What books have you been reading lately, hmmm?

Lisah -- That poof fairy has to go! We waited for about a year on the shaver for a few reasons. We found one for about $30, and told him if there are issues he has to replace it himself. He's been pretty careful with it so far. Weaning from diet soda is hard work I am really proud of you for working on it. How is that birthday boy? Any fun stories to tell us about that special day? I bet you're less tired now than you were at the end of that day The kitties have come to realize we are here to serve them, which is fine. They are so very playful and loving, we really enjoy them. We figured out Spock is a Maine Coon cat, he is a behemoth. It's a good thing he likes

Glad that the kitties are doing well. They should be tired out after all the extra folks around this week.

Birthday boy had a great time. We did some shopping so he could spend his birthday loot and got unlimited game time so he was a happy camper.

Hmm, stories about the day DS was born . . . you mean like having a forceps delivery with nothing but a local because they could never get the epidural started? That the mother talked to the doctor in her lawyer's voice? Or having one of the nurses tell us that we were very calm for elderly parents? Nah, nothing to tell! It was all worth it and a distant memory now except for the good stuff!

Lindsay, love the picture on Facebook -- glad that you are having a good time at the beach.

And you can totally kick the diet soda habit, too. It's a bit tough at first but totally doable and you'll feel alot better.

Nancy, holy cow on the snake thing! And what the heck is a snake doing in NYC?!?

Have a great time with Mickey today!

I'm off to see Jeff Galloway. I'm going to leave here around 10 am which will get me to Missoula around 1 pm. Then I'll have time to grab lunch and check out the Expo before running school from 3 pm to 6 pm. Hoping to get home around 9 pm. I decided to wear my WISH shirt in case there are any other WISH'ers there.

Neener, neener poof fairy!

 

[Rose&Mike]

cute facebook pic Lindsay!

Have fun at running school, Lisa!

Uggh--we are going to have to replace our heating/cooling unit. It's about 18 years old, but still. The guy was out last night and again this morning. We are just hoping it makes it until we get a couple estimates to get the new one installed. I guess I will hold off on the new windows for now.

Hope everyone is having a good day! Lindsay, I am so jealous that you are at the beach!

 

[Worfiedoodles]

Good Morning, Lovely Ones!

This is a super quick post because I'm supposed to be ready to leave when Dennis and Ben get back from their haircuts

I just wanted to wish Lisah great luck today with the Galloway workshop, I'm sure you will have a wonderful time! And don't be shy about sharing everything you learn Loved the little details about ds's delivery, I'm going to comment more on that later. I actually watch too much Daily Show, I got the sheath idea from a book review about a WW II mishap with a plane going down in what they thought was a cannibal area, and all the natives wore were those...luckily they thought they were gods, like C3PO and the Ewoks

What is with the wildlife in the City? Snakes in NYC, Beavers in Boston -- no wonder Nancy and I became runners, we have to get away from the vermin! Have a great time at the "really good zoo"!

Lindsay -- I know you will have so much fun at the ! I can see it from my bedroom window, and it's a 5 minute drive away, but the water is so cold this far north I never go in. I do like walking on the beach in the early morning or at sunset, I need to make it a point to have that happen this week This week there is a sandsculpting contest, I want to make sure we get over and see the sculptures. They are really elaborate and artists from all over the U.S. and beyond come to participate.

Rose -- I'm giddy just reading your post. Mike would need to lock me in a padded room. I totally understand your optimism! It sounds good so far

Kathy -- I hope you are getting out and enjoying this gorgeous day! My first task will be to go to the Hallmark (yes, I was there yesterday) to drop off my wish list for 500 extra reward points, and so dh can pick out a birthday card for his father. He likes to do it himself.

I ended up getting a Mandy VB bag in Plum Petals. It is so cute, and my Hallmark friend Lisa gave me what looks like a tiny VB purse, which is actually a mirror with a magnetic closure. It's also in Plum Petals and even has a VB tag sewn on the back. These are the little things that keep me coming back -- that and by dropping off my list, Lisa will pull all the ornaments I want so next weekend when they can sell them I just have to come in and pick them up, rather than get there before their picked over. She's also going to set aside my Oct. debut ones so they never even make it on the floor. It's a symbiotic relationship, and I like it

I really have to brush my teeth now so I don't scare anyone. Everybody have a fantastic day, and like I said, more comments are coming at some point.

Maria

 

[mikamah]

Good afternoon everyone!!

Having a nice weekend, but it does seem to go by too fast. We saw Zookeeper yesterday and loved it. It was hilarious, though in the beginning, I thought it wasn't going to be as good as it was. After the movie, we walked around the mall, and michael decided to buy some posters and redecorate his bedroom. It could use a paintjob, but I figure if he wants to cover the walls, do it now, and then later we'll paint. He picked quite an assortment, Wimpy kid, bruins, red sox, and mario brothers. I'm sure it will be quite the room.

Last night we went to our friends for dinner and swimming. They live on the river, and have a dock that the kids jump off. It's a tidal river, and pretty gross to me, but the kids love it. Then they clean all the grossness off in the pool. Last night we watched Fever Pitch, to keep with the baseball theme of ds's life. Today, our friends 12 yo is in the Jimmy fund tournament, so we went to his game. It was changed from 1 to 11, so I didn't get my dis time in. We did play tennis for an hour this morning, and over the past couple years, I've noticed we're really coming along. For the most part, we stayed in our own court. lol.

A friend from work is having a bbq/pool party today, so we'll swing by there shortly for a bit. It was really nice to have an extra day off this weekend. Tomorrow I'm doing a 5k that I did last year, and it was really hot, but it's looking nice tomorrow morning, though the email said they had record registartions, so it will be a big race. Last year there was over 800, and over 100 came in after me. It was a big deal for me.

Rose- I agree with waiting to tell them at work when you know something definite, and a month is a good long notice, too. Ugh on the heating/cooling unit. What a pita. I hope it's not too painful on the wallet. That is my big fear the big ticket items. When I bought my house 7 years ago, the people before me had replaced the boiler, hot water heater, etc, so they were only a few years old, but now that makes them 10. There is always something with a house, isn't there.

Lindsay- I had to check out the facebook pic. So cute. Looks like the perfect beach day too. Hope you had a blast.

Lisa- I'll definitely take any galloway tips you send my way. I laughed out loud at your delivery tidbits, and now think I know why Robert is an only child. Don't worry, I was a geriatric mom too. Though my delivery was a little smoother than yours sounds. I'm sure they were thrilled not to be able to get the epidural in a lawyer. Nice job kicking the diet soda.

Maria- I bet Ben will like zookeeper, just to see the zoo and the sights of boston. We get all excited when we see something we know in the movies, there's a great scene on the Zakim bridge. I thought of you as we walked by the hallmark store yesterday and all those vb bags were callling out to me. I have an old llbean bag that the zipper is going on, and need a new bag, and have been eyeing the vb bags, but there's too many to choose from. Sounds like you are very close to the hallmark girl. So funny. My sister works at Kmart, and she'll always keep an eye out for the hot items at the holidays for us. Hope the weekend goes smoothly with your houseguests.

Nancy- Sounded like a beatiful place to walk until the snake! How gross. Did you ever read the posts about the boy who got bit by a snake in wdw? He ended up fine, but I mentioned it to michael once, and the past couple trips, we've been walking around the resort, and he gets mad at me because he's scared of snakes and it's all my fault because I told him about it. Hope that adorable little thomas slept in today. And I forgot earlier, but I'm soooooo excited for your september trip!!!!! I love matching shirts, and have done them for all of our trips.
these are my favorite. I ended up ordering them, since I figured the time and energy it would take to make the mickey heads, and the fact that they wouldn't come out as nice as these ones, made them well worth the price. I even did tye dye socks with mickey buttons to match. The girl I ordered from is on facebook too, and does all sorts of other stuff too.

I painted some mickey head matching shirt for the kids race day too that are in my facebook album. I'll have to post them on the regular thread too.

Thanks for the kind words on the exercise. I feel like I've got the exercise under control, which is keeping the weight status quo, because it's counteracting the not so in control eating. One of these days it will all fall into place again.

Enjoy the rest of the weekend!!

 

[dumbo_buddy]

kathy those shirts are SO CUTE!!! i'm going to show them to DH to gauge how he feels about matching shirts

i posted this on facebook too but for those that don't have it or don't check, we went to the bronx zoo today for the lego safari. lego part was really cool! we made our way over to the DVC area which was set up like a safari- they are pushing AKV. anyway, i walk over and ask a CM when safari mickey would be there for pictures and she said, "there he is!"

OMG ARE YOU FOR REAL???? i would have been so pissed if i lived anywhere else and drove in to see mickey! we still wound up having a nice morning there until a certain 2 year old decided he wanted to have a meltdown. we made him sit in the stroller and got a ton of lovely looks from the people who i suppose have never seen a child cry before.

kathy - sounds like a fun weekend so far. what did you think of fever pitch? i think i would like it more if i were a red sox fan but it was cute. i don't think they'll be doing any movies of people falling in love over a mets season. lol!

good luck at the 5k!!! that's your second this summer right?? nice!

rose - ugh, owning a house really sucks sometimes doesn't it?? i feel like as soon as one thing is fixed something else breaks. i suppose that might be b/c i have a house that is from before the depression but you know how it is. new heating/cooling unit? ouch. i hope it's not too expensive!!

maria i really like vera bradley stuff and i just looked up the design you got - pretty! when i had my shower for thomas i got TWO VB diaper bags! fancy! i wound up selling one on ebay (don't tell aunt fran!) and the other i actually didn't use all that much for diaper bag stuff. i use it more like for an overnight bag or something. i forget what the design is called but it's blue and brown.

lisa hope the clinic is going well!!! can't wait to hear about it!

liesl how are you?

lindsay i hope the beach is treating you well! did you get kohr's soft serve?? did you play at wonderland? do they still have the water park? i love ocean city!

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

after nap today we headed over to the beach club for a couple hours. it was HOT! but the tide was coming up which was perfect and thomas really seemed to enjoy the water. only problem is that he kept getting deeper and deeper! had to reign him in a few times.

john took thomas's pacifier and put it in his pocket. and then he proceeded to lose said pacifier in the water. i know we need to get rid of it. but i'm not ready. luckily we have a few at home that stay in his crib. of course he's sucking away on one of those right now

oh, and i ran 5k this morning around maritime college. no stroller. i felt free! i managed to do it in 35 min even which is not fast for me (my pr is 28.5 min) but i'll take it b/c it was really humid out and i'm 20 weeks pg! haha. walked another mile home but DID NOT go on the trail this time. i stayed on my block.

do any of you guys read trip reports? i read some here and there if i feel like i like the people. haha. sometimes they are pretty good. this one i read last night had a picture of a SNAKE in the WATER at epcot by the baby center/first aid center. OMG kathy don't tell michael. i have told john several times that i will $h*t myself if i see a snake in disney. i know it's a matter of time.

 

[lisah0711]

Good morning Princesses and Belles!

Rose, bummer about the heating/cooling unit. It's a good selling point for the house and check with your utility provider to see if they will give you a rebate for upgrading to a more efficient unit. You will also save some energy costs with your new efficient unit and there might be a credit on your tax return, too. You have to be comfortable this summer!

I just wanted to wish Lisah great luck today with the Galloway workshop, I'm sure you will have a wonderful time! And don't be shy about sharing everything you learn Loved the little details about ds's delivery, I'm going to comment more on that later. I actually watch too much Daily Show, I got the sheath idea from a book review about a WW II mishap with a plane going down in what they thought was a cannibal area, and all the natives wore were those...luckily they thought they were gods, like C3PO and the Ewoks

Oh, I love John Stewart and Steve Colbert, too! I will be thinking of you this morning as I make pancakes for DS and being thankful that they are plain, old pancakes (no offense, Rose! )

I thought that you might be reading some JD Robb "In Death" books because I've read about those sheaths there, too. Like the Janet Evanovitch books, they are the same theme but different stories. I've been on a big kick with them this summer. I'm on the lookout for some really good beach reads for vacation. It has to be bubble gum for the brain but not too trashy so I don't look bad to the in-laws. So far I have the new Catherine Coulter.

I think your new VB bag sound lovely. Your Hallmark store sounds wonderful.

Having a nice weekend, but it does seem to go by too fast. We saw Zookeeper yesterday and loved it. It was hilarious, though in the beginning, I thought it wasn't going to be as good as it was. After the movie, we walked around the mall, and michael decided to buy some posters and redecorate his bedroom. It could use a paintjob, but I figure if he wants to cover the walls, do it now, and then later we'll paint. He picked quite an assortment, Wimpy kid, bruins, red sox, and mario brothers. I'm sure it will be quite the room.

Good luck with your race today! Hope it's not too hot. Can't wait to hear all about it!

I think Michael's room sounds eclectic and thank goodness these guys aren't into the skimpy clad girl picture thing, yet. We had to have a sexting talk this week with DS' new phone and that involved a lot of eye rolling and hand waving.

Yes, the epidural thing caused a bit of an uproar -- they called the chief anesthesiologist out in the middle of the night. Both DH and I were very nice to everyone because we get much better care that way and they were doing the best they could. Luckily my old-fashioned OB who had just returned from vacation came in and took care of everything. He was the one I used my lawyer voice on -- something to the effect of "get this baby out of here now!" because I had fibroids and it felt like DS was taking a souvenir with him. It all turned out fine and I had a wonderful baby boy, who is now taller than me.

i posted this on facebook too but for those that don't have it or don't check, we went to the bronx zoo today for the lego safari. lego part was really cool! we made our way over to the DVC area which was set up like a safari- they are pushing AKV. anyway, i walk over and ask a CM when safari mickey would be there for pictures and she said, "there he is!"

WTH?!? Flat Mickey? That would be a pisser if you had come from far away. Sounds like the Legos were neat. I will have to check them out as DS was a big Lego guy but it moving away from that now.

I had a great time at Galloway Running School yesterday. I'm glad that I left early because I forgot that Missoula is on MST and so it actually started an hour earlier to me. It was fine and I had time once I got there to look around before it started.

There were about 15 people there so it was very individualized. He genuinely appreciated that I was driving from 180 miles away just to come to running school. And that was before he heard my tale of woe of being swept at the Princess. Right off the bat he told me a few things that I should do and then at the break we spent quite a bit of time talking about Disney races. I'll do a separate post later of all the things I learned. And, of couse, I did get a picture.

It was so enjoyable that I didn't really mind the drive and wasn't too tired when I got home, although apparently the boys really missed me, so I will give them some extra attention today.

Have a wonderful day ladies!

 

[mommyof2Pirates]

Lisa- Im glad you had such a great time at running school. That is so cool you got to spend time talking with him. I cant wait to hear all of what you learned.

Maria- woohoo for the new purses...that is quite a relationship with the hallmark store you have. Whether the water is cold or not that is awesome that you can see the beach out your window. You should definitely make it a once a week thing to walk on the beach...that is quite a stress reliever for me anyway.

Rose- Sorry about the A/C. I hope it hangs in there until you can find a decent quote and company to do the work.

Kathy- your day yesterday sounded like so much fun. I agree the weekends go way to fast. I loved the fever pitch movie.

Nancy- I cant believe the misadvertisement of mickey yesterday. Sounds like you all are having a nice weekend too.

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

Yesterday was my first trip to Ocean City, NJ. I really loved it. It was similar to all the other Jersey shore points but it had a really nice family atmosphere. Even at night on the boardwalk it was mostly families or older adults vs. those nutty teenagers.

It was beautiful weather. We had such a great time. Ryan and nick surprised me at how much they loved the ocean. Its been 2years since we have gone so I wasnt sure how they would be. Ryan was in up to his shoulders which gave me panic attacks but I stayed right by his side and as it got high I would hold his hand. Nick told us before going that he wasnt going in because sharks are in there but he didnt mention any of that and was in up to his waist. Right as we got there we saw dolphins swimming not to far out from shore. That was so cool. I basically had to drag them out of the ocean when it was time to get off the beach. They really didnt even play much in the sand.

We then went back to my MIL hotel and swam in the pool. At that point the adults were already beat... the kids not so much...they were ready for the boardwalk.

We ended up walking the boardwalk to 1015pm. The boys choose to spend their money on hermit crabs...lucky me. We got home about 1am. We hit a little traffic in philly but otherwise it was a smooth ride. I am still exhausted this morning but it was a wonderful day.

To recap some things we tried and to answer Nancys???:

We ate dinner at Mack and Mancos its an award winning pizza place and was shown on some of the Food Network shows. There was constantly a line out the door. I had 2 slices and it was very good.

I did not get kohrs custard but everyone else did...go me!

I did have a bite or two of fudge samples along the boardwalk.

I also had chickie and pete's crab fries....this is a philly thing. They are seasoned(crab bay) crinkly fries and you did them in a cup of melted american cheese. Not such a good choice but I only ate a handful and handed it off to my FIL.

We went to Wonderlands and the kids did some rides. The price of those ride tickets really amazes me. 2-4$ per ride per kid.

A funny moment from the morning was as we were walking on the boardwalk my in laws got fries and my fil was talking to us and holding a fry in his hand as he was moving it to talk. A seagul came flying by and stole it right out of his hand. We were cracking up. The seagulls are a bit scary.

Anyway thats the recap to my day. It was alot to do in one day but we loved it. Now tomorrow its back to work for me.

 

[Rose&Mike]

We ran 8 miles this morning. I am icing, and then it's back to cleaning out the house. Mike helped with some stuff yesterday and I think he has a new appreciation about all I've been doing.

Kathy--hope the race went well!!!

Lindsay--I loved reading about your day at the beach. What a perfect day! And seagulls scare me. People feed them at BWV which makes it hard to eat outside cause they expect everyone to feed them.

Nancy--I would have been so not happy about the 2d mickey! Glad it was fun and good job on the 5k!

Lisa--glad the running school was fun! Can't wait to hear about it!

******
Mike thinks the guy did not tighten something back up Friday night and the freon leaked out cause he could not actually find the leak. (Which of course made me feel guilty--global warming and all.) It seems to be working ok today and he did not charge us for Saturday's trip. They did take apart the unit yesterday in the house and it is a huge rusty nasty mess, so we are just going to go ahead and replace it. It will be a good selling point for the house and I don't want to be 900 miles away and have something break. We're going to offer a credit at closing if someone wants new windows--we have some cracked seals. Our real estate agent is going to come over Wednesday just to look around and tell us what we need to do. Mike told her we would show it early if someone comes along who is really, really interested, but otherwise we won't list it until he has a job offer--since it still might not work out. But this way, we can get done what she needs us to do and get it on the market as soon as possible. We have a pool and it will show so much better in the summer than the winter. And our backyard is really landscaped and will get messy quickly if no one is living here.

So that's all that's new with me.

Have a great day!

Oh--Taryn, you should be getting home soon. Hope you had a super trip!

 

[mikamah]

Just a quick hello because it took me 15 min to check facebook and read back here, and I told michael to tell me when it was 2 oclock and I would get off the computer then. He's yelled at me about 5 times to get off now, so I told him I did to shut him up. Hope I don't get caught.

The race was really fun today. It's a 5k that we did last year, Take the Lake, and my friend from work and her niece did it too, and my friend Karen who I run with. So we met a lot of people that we knew or had met before. This was the race last year as I crossed the finishline, two guys were cheering for me, and I thought it was for the woman before me, but they were friends of Karen. So they cheered me on again. One of them is doing their the Providence Rock and Roll half as his first half. The other didn't do the training, so he backed out. I also ran into a guy I knew years ago from country dancing. I asked where he went these days, and he goes to manchester new hampshire to dance. Too far for me.

My time was a minute slower than last month, but it was hot and sunny, and I didn't push as hard as I could have. I was talking to a woman along the way who was 76 yo. She was so inspiring to me, and with my run/walk, I would go back and forth with her, but she seemd to have a slow and steady pace going for her. She said, "I'm 76, and I just do what I can do." I said I'm 47, and that's all I can do too. She laughed and said she had 30 years on me, and I told her how inspired I was by her. I thought of my mom after talking to her, and how their 2 lifestyles were so diffferent, and hope I am more like this woman as I get older.

The other thing I thought about a lot was my eating. My work friend is 60, ans she was about 2 minutes ahead of me, and I am so happy for her, but was just thinking she's only been running for 2 months, and doing great, but here I am running for 18 months, and at a slower pace than I'd like. She says I am her inspiration to run, and I look at her, and she is an inspiration to me for healthy eating. She is an overeaters anonymous member, and lost 60 pounds a 5ish years ago, and looks amazing, and is always so strong when there is junk at work. Never touches it. I know sugar is an addiction for me, and I need not to buy it, but the OA thought is because it's an addiction, you can't have any processed sugars. I think I'm going to try and stay away from processed foods, and especially processed sugars. Mary can't have any item where sugar is the 5th ingredient or higher. I think I'll start there, and try to heat more healthy, natural foods.

Guess I did a bit of instrospection during the race today.

Your day at the beach sounded perfect, Lindsay. I just love summer.

Lisa- Love the pic of you and Jeff Galloway, and can't wait to hear all about it. Enjoy your day with the boys.

Nancy- I hope your dh will do the matching shirt thing. Our first trip, we bought shirts for the girls and kids, and then added more for the men after initially thinking they wouldn't want to be included, and they really did get into it.

Rose-Nice job on 8 miles!! Hope the knee is feeling good.

Hello, Maria, Liesel, and Taryn.

And I'm 20 min past my allotted computer limit. But I think I can get off now and not get caught.

Have a great evening!! Camp starts tomorrow, so I want to make a big fruit salad, and I bought some cheezits for ds and put them all in snack bags, so packing his lunch will be easier, and I will stay away from them.

 

[mommyof2Pirates]

rose- I think its great you are doing the walk through and seeing what should be done. Even if this job falls through it sounds like you still may want to move at some point so its better to do things now then to rush when the moment arises. Glad mike got an appreciation for the hard work you were putting in.

kathy- Great job at the race. The hot sun does make all the difference. Isnt it amazing how much we analyze while running. Interesting what you said about your friend and OA. I didnt realize there was such a group. I definitely could be part of that. I think I need to start treating my eating of fast food as an addiction. It makes sense...if I was addicted to drugs I would just do a little each day...I would stop. Right??? I think I will start tomorrow. Of course I will have to make a list and note what qualifies as fast food. I think its safe to say anything with a drive thru right. That would exclude subway...I cant give up subway!

Well I did not get much rest today. I have no idea where my boys get all of their energy. Of course dh took a 3 hr nap....and he wonders why I am moody when he gets up.

It will need to be an early night tonight. ugh its back to work tomorrow.

 

[Worfiedoodles]

Forgive me and

I'm just going to focus on chatting with you, rather than responding. It's late, I'm tired, and I have to get this out or I won't sleep well...

Ok, so we went to pick up the girls and there weren't any problems with that. I did have a revelation at lunch. You would think I would have figured this out but...I mentioned before that Tristan can't really read. In my mind this was books, but it turns out she can't really read a menu...she literally asked her father what she could have, and he read off the menu things that were gluten-free. This means that at least for lunch tomorrow and Tues. when we'll be out, I'm going to have to pick things that are gluten-free and then ask her to choose -- plus I have no idea where we'll be at lunch time each day, we were just going to wing it...wish me !

So, we brought them home. It's about an hour drive, and all three kids were listening to their ipods. Ben and Bethany had their headphones on. Tristan apparently doesn't have any, so we had to hear every song she chose. This got old really quick for me, but I dealt with it.

We fed them dinner, and I offered to cut up Tristan's gluten free hot dog, or give her a knife to cut it. She flat out refused, and insisted on putting the whole thing on a fork and eating it from both ends. I know this is little and shouldn't bother me, but I would never let Ben do it, and he kept looking at me, waiting for me to correct her....and of course I couldn't! She also informed me all chips are gluten free -- she clearly wanted to eat them. Um no, but all the ones I put out were It's an interesting tactic, I just hope her ability to fabricate doesn't go beyond my knowledge of gluten, because otherwise this might not be pretty

But wait, there's more...the last time Tristan visited (ok, this is probably TMI), TOM was visiting her. So she told Dennis and asked him to put towels on every sitting surface. I've never heard of doing this for people, but we did it to make her happy. Anyway, Dennis was standing talking to the girls and a commercial for feminine products came on the tv. Tristan turned to Bethany and asked her if she had her TOM yet, and kept wanting to talk about it. Bethany turned about 12 shades of red, and Dennis excused himself. Then later Bethany came to Dennis and apologized because Tristan embarrassed him. Can I just say Bethany is an absolute gem?! I am just so grateful Ben wasn't standing there, because I think he would have turned inside out from embarrassment. That is the gist of the problem with conversing with Tristan, she doesn't have any sort of polite filter, and whatever she thinks comes out of her mouth.

In addition to not coming with any gluten free food or much directions ("Don't give her bread or chocolate"), she also came without any toiletries. ANY. As in I was scrambling in my linen closet for a new toothbrush, etc. This kid has braces -- how on earth did her mom think she was going to function without a toothbrush?! I'm just glad I bought a multi-pack of deodorant last week so I had one to give her

Tomorrow we are doing a trolley tour of Boston. Dennis informed me late yesterday that he has to go to a meeting at 1 for work. So that means either we're done with the tour before he leaves, or he leaves us in progress and either way I have to shepherd the kids home and deal with feeding them. This would not stress me normally, but I am terrified I'm going to "poison" Tristan with gluten! It's going to be a long day tomorrow...

Quickly --

Nancy -- Cardboard Mickey is a total ripoff! I would have been seriously mad if I made any effort to see that! I just starting reading your TR -- I needed to do something to take me to my happy place. Breastfeeding at WDW now sounds preferable to the next 2 days

Lisah -- I have a feeling you got some fabulous advice at the workshop, I can't wait for you to share! By the way, I can see you've lost weight in the photo with Jeff Galloway. You are doing it, Lisahbelle!

Lindsay -- I hope the return to work isn't too painful, and you have some great memories to get you through!

Kathy -- I'm so impressed you ran in the heat! You totally I love those tie dye shirts! And did you spit your niece out of your mouth? She totally looks like a Mini Me!

Rose -- So sorry about replacing the ac! Our window unit was way more than I thought, I cannot imagine for an entire house! It will help to sell it. Our house had a brand new boiler and oil burner when we bought it and it made us feel more confident as buyers. After 2 meals with this kid, I cannot imagine the mental gymnastics you do to eat out at all. No wonder you were living on beet salad!

I'm to Taryn and Lisa!

Everyone have a fabulous night and a fantastic tomorrow!

Maria

 

[flipflopmom]

Hey ladies! We got in at 3am.... long night of driving. Great trip, I'm still processing, more on that later. Definitely had highlights and lowpoints.. but I'm hoping it's like giving birth and I forget the lowpoints. I have a lot of reading and writing to do for an assignment in the next 36 hours, so I might not check in until after that, but did want to say we made it home safely! TTYL!