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

[Chicago Mo]

Good for you and all your accomplishments!

Go have a great day!!!

 

[OregonMomToWDW]

I am finally caught up for now. After starting my new job in April, I find I don't have much time for anything else these days. I now commute an hour to and from work, on top of 10 hour days (10.5 - 11 if I take lunch).

I have been keeping up on fb, so I loved the live stream of graduation. The kitchen looks wonderful.

I loved V's poster for her sister. It was something I would have done. My sister and I aren't close. We see each other maybe 4 times a year. Sometimes we will remember to call one another. It isn't that we don't love each other, we just are wrapped up in our own families and we just aren't those kind of sisters, I guess. My aunts do everything together. Worked together, took vacations together, everything together. I don't see my sister and I doing that.

My trip to Disneyland that was supposed to begin this coming Sunday, got delayed till end of August. It is probably for the best. I will have enough PTO by then as well as a arm/neck that can handle the drive down and the rides. Plus, I upgraded the hotel to one that we have always looked at but never got. It has 1 king, 2 queens and a sleeper sofa, so lots of room. It doesn't have the complimentary breakfast, but since we have the car, we can do cold cereal and pastries in the room. Marissa even suggested bringing a Mickey waffle maker. Silly girl, but I might do just that. So, although I am sad I am not going in a few days, I still get to go this year for the 60th Anniversary celebration (held over from last year). I really wanted to ride Hyperspace Mountain and see the Paint the Night parade, especially if the rumors are true that it will be leaving and replacing the electrical parade at MK. And kind of wanting to do the Frozen Live show.

I may not be able to get back on for awhile. Know that I am thinking of you and the upcoming departure of Allison.

 

[missjackiemcg]

I'm so glad everything went smoothly with the party set up and event itself! How awesome for V to have 10 guests on her big day, too!!!

Thought of you the other day as my teacher husband went back to Target after being on leave during the school year!

Hope you get to enjoy lots of time with Allison before she heads off on the big adventure!!!

 

[disny_luvr]

Checking in from Disney! I've been out of town since last Wednesday and haven't had much time to check the DIS.

I'm glad Allison's party went well. It looked like everyone had a great time and all your hard work paid off!

 

[WDisneyMom]

Yes - it was extra special to have something very important to both girls on this day - it was really cool. We are very proud of her!

It did go well, and Allison was very appreciative of it. It was just a lot of fun and very much worth it - all of the hard work and preparation, I am so glad we did it. It is such a relief to have the house - at least the main parts of it - finished.

It's going to be tough - it truly is, but she will have a wonderful time and I keep trying to remember that.

Are you settling back into life after your trip?



Yah - because dumb me didn't take any pictures. Well, I took 3... Pretty disappointed in myself.

I know - I am trying hard not to think about it - but it's hard.

Hehehehe... You can come and take pictures any time you want.

It's a relief to have it over and to go back to my "lazy" life.



Thanks - it was a lot of fun... Now the hard part begins.



I think everyone had a good time? I hope they did anyways. Ahhh - good - LOL - I was so disappointed that after all that work, my kitchen was totally trashed for the whole day

I hope so - thank you for that. Hopefully it's much easier than what I am anticipating.



It was very nice and very fun - glad it's over. LOL

Thank you - I am making my way through it, one day and one moment at a time. I think she is purposefully doing things to annoy me - there are times when I tell myself that I can't wait for her to go... But I truly don't mean it... gonna miss her like crazy!



True - I was so bummed that I didn't get time with everyone. Thankfully they are all understanding. We were very lucky with the weather - we could have made it work inside - but it would have been tight.

Yes - we are so proud of her - such a wonderful opportunity and to be able to have something so special on a day that was about Allison too - it was really cool. We couldn't have planned it better.

Allison will be sharing pictures, for sure. It's going to be an amazing and memorable time in her life - and I cannot wait to hear all about it.

Thank you.



I don't blame you for skipping ahead - there's too much chatter to read about all of it. LOL

I am back at it - maybe not as hard core at the moment as I typically am - but I haven't fallen off the wagon completely - so that's a blessing. I just have a lot of work to do ahead of me... Thankfully I have a Disney trip on the horizon to look good for. LOL

I think I am right there close to you... I enjoy deadlifts very much, but I really detest squat day... I am not sure if it's because of my weak knees? Or if it's something else? I've really had to play around with my form and my foot placement, to be able to get the proper form, yet not feel weak in my knees as badly... It's been a process for sure.

Thanks - the kitchen was so much work and such a mess - I am so glad to have it over! I love my living room curtains, but I still feel like they throw my room off in some way - I still haven't decided if they are staying up or not? I may try to look for something different at some point - but until then, I do like them a lot, so they are staying. I am just having issues, now, with the fact that my living room is such a different style than my kitchen is, and they are connected. I just keep telling myself, that's how it would have been 100 years ago, the living room would have been much more formal in a farmhouse than the kitchen was... So, then I am OK with the difference. LOL

It's been a difficult few weeks with her graduating, and definitely bittersweet... but it's even harder now that she is leaving. I knew this day would come - but I am not looking forward to having her so far away for so long. I still cry about it a lot... Hopefully I am done crying by the time I have to take her to the airport, because my crying will just make it all the harder for both of us.

Thank you - we are so very proud of V - such an amazing accomplishment for her! The talent she has, just blows me away!

Thank you. Yes - i did make Kathy's Dumbo bag - one of my favorites. I am glad you are enjoying my PTR... Looking forward to getting back to all things Disney again!

The cupcakes are GONE - thankfully... Josh took most of them to work with him yesterday... We have one lone straggler left that Josh claimed last night... So hopefully that temptation is gone. I find, once I allow sugar back into my life - I have a terrible time getting rid of it again. It's going to be a rough and dedicated few weeks ahead of me, for sure.

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

Well, I don't have much to update on from yesterday... I worked out right away yesterday morning.

Allison and I had to run into town right after... She has been having some ear and throat pain - and I just wanted to be double-double sure that she didn't need to be on antibiotics or anything before she leaves... I want her going over healthy. So, the Dr did a strep test, and also a full mono panel just to be safe... If she doesn't have any of those things - she is instructed to go on antibiotics, which we already have on hand, just to be safe.

We also had to run a few errands in town.

I came home and went straight upstairs to work, and I worked all day. I was able to finish last weeks order - which was a difficult one and set myself up to start this week's order today... Just praying I can stay caught up through the next 2 weeks, as Allison leaves and I adjust to a different family life.

The flowers we gave Allison for graduation on the table, I love having fresh flowers... And also my Starbucks Disney mugs from Cindy on my China hutch - not the place I want to display them, but I do want them out for the time being - so this is where they went until I get the shelves up for my coffee nook.

One of our neighbors was coming for dinner last night - but she had to cancel at the last minute, which was a bummer - but we totally understood. It feels good to have my kitchen back again, so I can do things like that! We are not big entertainers - but we are social people, and enjoy gathering... So, I am looking forward to just being able to have people over again.

Last night, Allison worked on her thank you cards from graduation... Gonna miss this girl!

That's about all for yesterday...

Today is a heavy lifting day - so I will be doing that right away.

Then I have to run to town this morning... And I will be working all day.

I promised Allison a day of shopping tomorrow for all of her last minute items - so I need to work hard today to be able to take tomorrow off. Just trying to get through this week.

I hope you all have a wonderful day! Pixie Dust to all of you!

D~

Glad you're back to your activity! I feel my knees are pretty weak and I'm sure that's why squats are at the bottom of my favorites list.

Love those flowers. Love, love, love fresh flowers and they work pretty well for me considering I kill all other plants.

Well, like I said previously I'm on vacation and still reading through all kinds of Disney reports and what not. I also decided this was a great time to schedule a doctor's appointment seeing as I haven't had one in 9 years. I know, 9 years. This was yesterday and today I got word that I have hypothyroidism and am officially on medication. Seriously, did not see that coming and of course I posted it on FB and have had several comments and messages from people telling me how well I'm doing losing weight. Well yeah, I never claimed to be having trouble in that area. I mean, it's not flying off but I'm happy with my progress. Oh well, thanks for listening!

I hope you and Alli had a great time shopping today.

 

[WDisneyMom]

Checking in from Disney! I've been out of town since last Wednesday and haven't had much time to check the DIS.

I'm glad Allison's party went well. It looked like everyone had a great time and all your hard work paid off!

Oh! Hi disny_luvr! Have a great time in Disney! Counting down the days until we are there again! 3 trips over the next 12 months and they cannot come soon enough!

 

[FantasiaMagic]

I hope you enjoyed the day shopping with Allison!

 

[DMGeurts]

I'm glad to hear you accomplished everything you needed to AND start on a side project

I hope you have a great day shopping with Allison today

I know - I am feeling really good about that. Now trying to distract myself with that area of my life - and just really trying to get back to working out, taking care of myself and working hard.

Thank you - We had a lot of fun!

Congratulations to Allison!! The house looks great and it looks like it was a great party. Hang in there the next few days. You can do this.

THank you so much. Trying to hang on, but as the minutes tick by - it gets harder and harder.

Have a wonderful day!

Thank you - same to you!

Hope Allison is feeling 100% now. The flowers are so pretty! I am glad that your party went well. Enjoy your time with Allison and have a great day!

She mostly is, but I am sending the antibiotics with her, just in case.

I love how they match the kitchen - and I just love fresh flowers anyways, such a treat for me. Many years ago - I told Josh to stop buying them... I felt like they were such a waste of $$... I may have to retract that.

Thank you - just trying to get through it and enjoy every moment. It's hard.

Good for you and all your accomplishments!

Go have a great day!!!

Thank you - same to you Mo-Mo! Love you!

I am finally caught up for now. After starting my new job in April, I find I don't have much time for anything else these days. I now commute an hour to and from work, on top of 10 hour days (10.5 - 11 if I take lunch).

I have been keeping up on fb, so I loved the live stream of graduation. The kitchen looks wonderful.

I loved V's poster for her sister. It was something I would have done. My sister and I aren't close. We see each other maybe 4 times a year. Sometimes we will remember to call one another. It isn't that we don't love each other, we just are wrapped up in our own families and we just aren't those kind of sisters, I guess. My aunts do everything together. Worked together, took vacations together, everything together. I don't see my sister and I doing that.

My trip to Disneyland that was supposed to begin this coming Sunday, got delayed till end of August. It is probably for the best. I will have enough PTO by then as well as a arm/neck that can handle the drive down and the rides. Plus, I upgraded the hotel to one that we have always looked at but never got. It has 1 king, 2 queens and a sleeper sofa, so lots of room. It doesn't have the complimentary breakfast, but since we have the car, we can do cold cereal and pastries in the room. Marissa even suggested bringing a Mickey waffle maker. Silly girl, but I might do just that. So, although I am sad I am not going in a few days, I still get to go this year for the 60th Anniversary celebration (held over from last year). I really wanted to ride Hyperspace Mountain and see the Paint the Night parade, especially if the rumors are true that it will be leaving and replacing the electrical parade at MK. And kind of wanting to do the Frozen Live show.

I may not be able to get back on for awhile. Know that I am thinking of you and the upcoming departure of Allison.

I hope your new job is going well and you enjoy it - even if the commute is terrible. It's a bummer that you don't have much time - we miss seeing you around here, but we totally understand.

Thank you! I am glad I could share it there - such a cool feature, and rarely does anything in my life warrant a live feed. LOL

I wish my girls had a relationship like that... I am praying that the summer away from each other will grow their relationship rather than separate them more. We'll see - I suspect they will enjoy the time apart immensely... Well V will... Allison really craves a close relationship with her.

Such a bummer that the DL trip had to be delayed - but it seems like the reward will be so much sweeter, with the amazing hotel experience and just having it fit in your life better. :hugs: I know it's such a let down when trips have to be postponed or cancelled - so I am glad that you still get to go. It will be an amazing trip!

Thank you - best of luck to you! I hope you are able to settle into your job well and your healing continues. Miss you my friend - but I totally understand. Thanks for stopping in and giving an update.

I'm so glad everything went smoothly with the party set up and event itself! How awesome for V to have 10 guests on her big day, too!!!

Thought of you the other day as my teacher husband went back to Target after being on leave during the school year!

Hope you get to enjoy lots of time with Allison before she heads off on the big adventure!!!

Yes - it was a great day, full of lots of fun memories!

I've been enjoying my time off of Target immensely... I have one shift next week, then I am off for 2 weeks again. There's almost nothing that makes me happier than time off from there. LOL I hope your DH is having a fun summer working at Target - it really isn't all that bad.

Thank you - I've been trying to make the most of it.

Checking in from Disney! I've been out of town since last Wednesday and haven't had much time to check the DIS.

I'm glad Allison's party went well. It looked like everyone had a great time and all your hard work paid off!

Thanks for checking in - I hope you are having a great trip!!!

We did have a great time - and everything went very well... It was such a nice day to share with everyone.

Glad you're back to your activity! I feel my knees are pretty weak and I'm sure that's why squats are at the bottom of my favorites list.

Love those flowers. Love, love, love fresh flowers and they work pretty well for me considering I kill all other plants.

Well, like I said previously I'm on vacation and still reading through all kinds of Disney reports and what not. I also decided this was a great time to schedule a doctor's appointment seeing as I haven't had one in 9 years. I know, 9 years. This was yesterday and today I got word that I have hypothyroidism and am officially on medication. Seriously, did not see that coming and of course I posted it on FB and have had several comments and messages from people telling me how well I'm doing losing weight. Well yeah, I never claimed to be having trouble in that area. I mean, it's not flying off but I'm happy with my progress. Oh well, thanks for listening!

I hope you and Alli had a great time shopping today.

Yes - it feels good to be back to eating well and exercising the way I need to be... I do kind of miss my walks - so I may have to figure out a way to add them in... I always feel like I need to do something I enjoy too.

Try to adjust your footing a bit. I have the same issue with my weak knees, and once I turned my feet out just a smidge more - while keeping proper form, I find that the squats target my inner thighs better, and also, my knees feel less unstable.

Wow!!! That is a shocker, I bet. I hope the meds help and your body responds well.

Thanks - we did... It's getting harder and harder by the moment - but we enjoyed ourselves.

I hope you enjoyed the day shopping with Allison!

I did - thanks... It's going to be so hard to have her gone, yet I am trying to enjoy every last moment with her here.

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

So, I worked out yesterday morning - again my heart wasn't in it, but I did it anyways. I even did my abs - which I've really been slacking on lately - so that was good.

I worked all morning - as hard as I could, and I was able to get a lot done. I still have a lot to do, but I feel - considering my life right now - I am staying caught up pretty well.

Allison and I went out for lunch at Chipotle yesterday and then we did all sorts of shopping. All of her last minute travel stuff from Target, then to the outlet mall for some clothes, then to the MOA for more clothes and stuff. She was very successful and was able to get everything on her list - and then some.

Then there's me... Bawling like a baby every time I turned around. I was helping her pack last night, and she said to me "Mom - your crying is like contractions, it just keeps getting closer and closer together..." Yes, child... I guess so. Trying so hard to hold it together and keep my game face on... it's getting harder and harder to do. If she only knew how often I sneak off to another room to shed a few more tears. At some point - I must run out of them? Trying so hard to concentrate on all of the fun and great things she is going to experience - but I keep replaying the part where we have to leave her at the airport - and it's instant tears for me.

On the plus side - she is totally packed - aside from her last minute items... We worked very hard on that last night. Essentially - she has one full suitcase of stuff for the littles and one full suitcase of her own stuff. The funny part - is every time we bump the side of the one suitcase - one of the toys in there starts singing then says "come play with me..." I hope TSA enjoys that.

A photo of Allison and I from yesterday... I am hoping this is just an odd filter she put on this picture - otherwise, I've aged about 20 years in the last 2 months...

Today... Well, I will be doing my heavy lifting here shortly... It's squat day.

Then I will be working upstairs all day... I have a lot to do today to stay caught up - so just doing the best I can there.

That's about all - nothing really exciting. Just trying to make the most of every moment I have before Allison leaves.

I hope you all have a wonderful day!

D~

 

[anniebean]

It gets easier. I cried off and on for two weeks before my oldest left for boot camp. Like for no reason..didn't make it thru a green light, I'd cry. My fries weren't salty enough, I'd cry. I missed a towel doing laundry, I'd cry....you get the picture. Once he left, I cried a couple of more days, then it gradually got easier. Now my youngest son (middle child) is leaving in November for boot camp, and while it's not hit me yet, it's only a matter of time. However, my daughter (the youngest of my 3) is anxious to be an only child after he leaves because she thinks it'll be all about her. Bless her heart. We just let her keep thinking that

Here's a pic of my 3 from my oldest's boot camp graduation. We were all in tears, but it hit my daughter the most once she saw him. She'd kill me if she knew I posted this pic of her ugly cry.

 

[Born 2B a Princess]

Hugs, hugs, hugs, and more hugs!! I remember it so well....I cried more than I thought a human being could cry. And then when we took her to the airport, I sobbed buckets all that day. But it really does get better, and she's going to have a wonderful time that she'll remember for the rest of her life. And you'll get to spend some special time with V while she's gone. I know that doesn't make it better. Hugs!

 

[Wood Nymph]

On the plus side - she is totally packed - aside from her last minute items... We worked very hard on that last night. Essentially - she has one full suitcase of stuff for the littles and one full suitcase of her own stuff. The funny part - is every time we bump the side of the one suitcase - one of the toys in there starts singing then says "come play with me..." I hope TSA enjoys that.

We had TSA search our luggage because I had a small clock that made a ticking noise. Now I travel with the battery out of the clock. I don't want my luggage searched or possibly delayed again.

How long will Allison be traveling in Europe? I know that you mentioned it about a million pages ago, but I forgot.

 

[Chicago Mo]

but I keep replaying the part where we have to leave her at the airport - and it's instant tears for me.

I am sorry! this is so tough! there is a war! keep them home and safe yet they have to go out into the world to experience it! Yet you still see them as the tiny tots they once were. WHY do they grow that fast?!

there starts singing then says "come play with me..." I hope TSA enjoys that.

That's scary as hell

I've aged about 20 years in the last 2 months...

Or it has to do with all the tears?

Just trying to make the most of every moment I have before Allison leaves.

Now try to think of the coming home.. Focus on the reunion!

 

[Terkina]

I'm so sorry to hear Allison leaving is so hard for you. She will have a great time and it's not like you won't hear from her. You can have contact via Skype or some other free video call.
Since she has one suitcase full of stuff for the little ones she will have a lot of room for stuff that she want to buy and take home
How great that Allison found everything on her shopping list.

 

[WDisneyMom]

Oh! Hi disny_luvr! Have a great time in Disney! Counting down the days until we are there again! 3 trips over the next 12 months and they cannot come soon enough!

[GALLERY=][/GALLERY]

I know - I am feeling really good about that. Now trying to distract myself with that area of my life - and just really trying to get back to working out, taking care of myself and working hard.

Thank you - We had a lot of fun!



THank you so much. Trying to hang on, but as the minutes tick by - it gets harder and harder.



Thank you - same to you!



She mostly is, but I am sending the antibiotics with her, just in case.

I love how they match the kitchen - and I just love fresh flowers anyways, such a treat for me. Many years ago - I told Josh to stop buying them... I felt like they were such a waste of $$... I may have to retract that.

Thank you - just trying to get through it and enjoy every moment. It's hard.



Thank you - same to you Mo-Mo! Love you!



I hope your new job is going well and you enjoy it - even if the commute is terrible. It's a bummer that you don't have much time - we miss seeing you around here, but we totally understand.

Thank you! I am glad I could share it there - such a cool feature, and rarely does anything in my life warrant a live feed. LOL

I wish my girls had a relationship like that... I am praying that the summer away from each other will grow their relationship rather than separate them more. We'll see - I suspect they will enjoy the time apart immensely... Well V will... Allison really craves a close relationship with her.

Such a bummer that the DL trip had to be delayed - but it seems like the reward will be so much sweeter, with the amazing hotel experience and just having it fit in your life better. :hugs: I know it's such a let down when trips have to be postponed or cancelled - so I am glad that you still get to go. It will be an amazing trip!

Thank you - best of luck to you! I hope you are able to settle into your job well and your healing continues. Miss you my friend - but I totally understand. Thanks for stopping in and giving an update.



Yes - it was a great day, full of lots of fun memories!

I've been enjoying my time off of Target immensely... I have one shift next week, then I am off for 2 weeks again. There's almost nothing that makes me happier than time off from there. LOL I hope your DH is having a fun summer working at Target - it really isn't all that bad.

Thank you - I've been trying to make the most of it.



Thanks for checking in - I hope you are having a great trip!!!

We did have a great time - and everything went very well... It was such a nice day to share with everyone.



Yes - it feels good to be back to eating well and exercising the way I need to be... I do kind of miss my walks - so I may have to figure out a way to add them in... I always feel like I need to do something I enjoy too.

Try to adjust your footing a bit. I have the same issue with my weak knees, and once I turned my feet out just a smidge more - while keeping proper form, I find that the squats target my inner thighs better, and also, my knees feel less unstable.

Wow!!! That is a shocker, I bet. I hope the meds help and your body responds well.

Thanks - we did... It's getting harder and harder by the moment - but we enjoyed ourselves.



I did - thanks... It's going to be so hard to have her gone, yet I am trying to enjoy every last moment with her here.

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

So, I worked out yesterday morning - again my heart wasn't in it, but I did it anyways. I even did my abs - which I've really been slacking on lately - so that was good.

I worked all morning - as hard as I could, and I was able to get a lot done. I still have a lot to do, but I feel - considering my life right now - I am staying caught up pretty well.

Allison and I went out for lunch at Chipotle yesterday and then we did all sorts of shopping. All of her last minute travel stuff from Target, then to the outlet mall for some clothes, then to the MOA for more clothes and stuff. She was very successful and was able to get everything on her list - and then some.

Then there's me... Bawling like a baby every time I turned around. I was helping her pack last night, and she said to me "Mom - your crying is like contractions, it just keeps getting closer and closer together..." Yes, child... I guess so. Trying so hard to hold it together and keep my game face on... it's getting harder and harder to do. If she only knew how often I sneak off to another room to shed a few more tears. At some point - I must run out of them? Trying so hard to concentrate on all of the fun and great things she is going to experience - but I keep replaying the part where we have to leave her at the airport - and it's instant tears for me.

On the plus side - she is totally packed - aside from her last minute items... We worked very hard on that last night. Essentially - she has one full suitcase of stuff for the littles and one full suitcase of her own stuff. The funny part - is every time we bump the side of the one suitcase - one of the toys in there starts singing then says "come play with me..." I hope TSA enjoys that.

A photo of Allison and I from yesterday... I am hoping this is just an odd filter she put on this picture - otherwise, I've aged about 20 years in the last 2 months...

Today... Well, I will be doing my heavy lifting here shortly... It's squat day.

Then I will be working upstairs all day... I have a lot to do today to stay caught up - so just doing the best I can there.

That's about all - nothing really exciting. Just trying to make the most of every moment I have before Allison leaves.

I hope you all have a wonderful day!

D~

Awww! You had me welling up. I can only imagine the emotions leading up to Alli's departure. Our kids growing up is so bittersweet.

I will definitely try the tip on my squat positioning, Maxx has mentioned the same thing and I do feel more secure but maybe I just need to reposition a smidge more.

Enjoy your day!

 

[dalmatian7]

The thing with free form vs. Smith machine squats - is that the Smith machine actually forces your body to do squats wrong (there is lots of research on this out there, if you want to Google) -

I guess I really don't like lunges either - LOL - but they are better with shoes. Seeing as I lift barefoot (there's research on this too) - I have to put my shoes on for lunges, or I slide all over. Which isn't good with heavy weights in your hands. LOL


I think this was a better variation than a smith machine (I had to google that btw) I haven't seen that since high school. There was more of an angle to the position. My hamstrings and hip flexors are incredibly tight (since I was a baby) and being able to balance myself helps me achieve a deeper squat (always watching lower back and knee position). I often do no weight, high reps, using the bed post or a chair for light balance. Us Klutzes have to improvise.

I should really wear shoes for lunges too but I work out in the living room and I feel like that carpet gets enough wear it doesn't need me grinding into it with my sneakers. I have often thought someone should make an "I do videos in my living room" shoe/sock hybrid.

Enjoy your week with Allison.

 

[missjackiemcg]

Awww, that picture of you and Allison is beautiful!!! I don't think you look like you've aged!?! You look like sisters, honestly.

Enjoy every minute and think about all the amazing adventures she'll be able to experience--and just focus on the awesomeness of that first hug when you see her again!!

 

[FantasiaMagic]

I think that's a great picture of you and Allison - very cute!
Aw, I bet it will be hard, but at least you have your work and V's trip to keep you busy once she's gone! Planning a Disney trip makes everything seem better in my opinion...

 

[DMGeurts]

It gets easier. I cried off and on for two weeks before my oldest left for boot camp. Like for no reason..didn't make it thru a green light, I'd cry. My fries weren't salty enough, I'd cry. I missed a towel doing laundry, I'd cry....you get the picture. Once he left, I cried a couple of more days, then it gradually got easier. Now my youngest son (middle child) is leaving in November for boot camp, and while it's not hit me yet, it's only a matter of time. However, my daughter (the youngest of my 3) is anxious to be an only child after he leaves because she thinks it'll be all about her. Bless her heart. We just let her keep thinking that

Here's a pic of my 3 from my oldest's boot camp graduation. We were all in tears, but it hit my daughter the most once she saw him. She'd kill me if she knew I posted this pic of her ugly cry.
View attachment 177012

I am so glad I am not the only one... I hope, as the days go on, it gets easier. I feel terrible that all I do is cry - she is so excited to go and experience everything there is out there, and I feel like I am taking away from some of her excitement. I am trying so hard not to let her see me cry - but it's not going well at all. Just praying that I can make it through the next few days.

Hahaha... I am pretty sure that V is thinking the same thing.

Awwww... I love that picture of your kids - what a great family memory, even if dd is crying. You must be so proud of all of them.

Thanks for your words of wisdom - it helps me to know I am not the only one.

Hugs, hugs, hugs, and more hugs!! I remember it so well....I cried more than I thought a human being could cry. And then when we took her to the airport, I sobbed buckets all that day. But it really does get better, and she's going to have a wonderful time that she'll remember for the rest of her life. And you'll get to spend some special time with V while she's gone. I know that doesn't make it better. Hugs!

Thank you... I am glad to hear that there is hope I will get over this crying stuff. Normally - I am not afraid to feel emotions, but holy buckets - I knew I would cry and I knew this would be hard - but wowza... I haven't cried this much since Josh left for Iraq - and I am really not enjoying it at all. Hoping to get through this fog in the next few days.

I am looking forward to spending some time with V, and we have family flying in, in a few days - so we have that to look forward to too. It will be ok.

Thank you!

We had TSA search our luggage because I had a small clock that made a ticking noise. Now I travel with the battery out of the clock. I don't want my luggage searched or possibly delayed again.

How long will Allison be traveling in Europe? I know that you mentioned it about a million pages ago, but I forgot.

OK - wow... So, I took the batteries out of the toy. LOL The last thing I need is for her to be missing luggage.

She will be in Europe until September - so almost 3 months.

I am sorry! this is so tough! there is a war! keep them home and safe yet they have to go out into the world to experience it! Yet you still see them as the tiny tots they once were. WHY do they grow that fast?!

That's scary as hell

Or it has to do with all the tears?

Now try to think of the coming home.. Focus on the reunion!

It's terrible... But I will get through it... I'll take a few days to just feel my feelings, then I will dust myself off and Skype her every hour. It is going to be amazing for her - and above everything, I am very excited to hear about her adventures and the time she gets to spend with family. Her and Thomas will be best buds - and hearing about how excited he is to have Allison living in his house, it does bring great joy to me.

Already have a countdown on my phone... Gonna miss her like crazy!

I'm so sorry to hear Allison leaving is so hard for you. She will have a great time and it's not like you won't hear from her. You can have contact via Skype or some other free video call.
Since she has one suitcase full of stuff for the little ones she will have a lot of room for stuff that she want to buy and take home
How great that Allison found everything on her shopping list.

I know... I keep telling myself that. I have friends and family all over the world - she will be fine. Just keep swimming - right?

I now have Skype on my phone - so I can call her any time. That will make it so much easier! We practiced last night on the couch - that was fun.

Hopefully - LOL I hope she has a lot of room to bring everything home. Otherwise - Myrthe's family travels here often, and they often bring empty luggage to bring things home with them. So, if there isn't enough room in her luggage when she comes home - they will bring it the next time they come over.

[GALLERY=][/GALLERY]


Awww! You had me welling up. I can only imagine the emotions leading up to Alli's departure. Our kids growing up is so bittersweet.

I will definitely try the tip on my squat positioning, Maxx has mentioned the same thing and I do feel more secure but maybe I just need to reposition a smidge more.

Enjoy your day!

It hasn't been an easy few days - and it will only get worse as the days get closer to her departure. Just trying to hike up my big girl panties and put on a brave face... Even if that only means I cry 20 times a day instead of 25, it's progress.

Yes - I definitely feel more confident in my squats with my feet turned out, I also feel like I am targeting my muscles better that way. Maybe watch a few you tube videos on it? I have to do that sometimes, especially if I feel like my form is off.

Thank you - same to you!

The thing with free form vs. Smith machine squats - is that the Smith machine actually forces your body to do squats wrong (there is lots of research on this out there, if you want to Google) -

I guess I really don't like lunges either - LOL - but they are better with shoes. Seeing as I lift barefoot (there's research on this too) - I have to put my shoes on for lunges, or I slide all over. Which isn't good with heavy weights in your hands. LOL


I think this was a better variation than a smith machine (I had to google that btw) I haven't seen that since high school. There was more of an angle to the position. My hamstrings and hip flexors are incredibly tight (since I was a baby) and being able to balance myself helps me achieve a deeper squat (always watching lower back and knee position). I often do no weight, high reps, using the bed post or a chair for light balance. Us Klutzes have to improvise.

I should really wear shoes for lunges too but I work out in the living room and I feel like that carpet gets enough wear it doesn't need me grinding into it with my sneakers. I have often thought someone should make an "I do videos in my living room" shoe/sock hybrid.

Enjoy your week with Allison.

I do a lot of stretches to keep myself loose for squats and dead lifts - otherwise my form is definitely off. Especially back by my ankles - otherwise my heels pop up when I am at the lowest point, and they my form is a mess... My goal is always to keep my heels on the ground and the weight in my heels. I feel like, once I am at that point, the rest of my form falls into place.

Hahaha... I work out in my office and this carpet - like the carpet on my stairs - has seen better days - so I am A-OK with wearing my shoes and working out in here. That would be an awesome hybrid - you should do that!

Thanks - as we are coming up to our last few days, I am trying hard to enjoy it, but it's difficult. I am doing the best I cant though.

Awww, that picture of you and Allison is beautiful!!! I don't think you look like you've aged!?! You look like sisters, honestly.

Enjoy every minute and think about all the amazing adventures she'll be able to experience--and just focus on the awesomeness of that first hug when you see her again!!

Thank you... I just feel like I look so worn and tired - which I am. LOL

Thank you - I am trying hard to enjoy her and not to focus on her leaving, but the closer the days get, the harder it is to keep my composure. I already have a countdown on my phone for when she comes home... Not trying to wish her trip away - but I definitely am looking forward to her return, even if she hasn't left yet.

I think that's a great picture of you and Allison - very cute!
Aw, I bet it will be hard, but at least you have your work and V's trip to keep you busy once she's gone! Planning a Disney trip makes everything seem better in my opinion...

Thank you. Yes - I do have a TON of life to catch up on and big stuff to get done... So, I will stay busy for sure. And distracted. LOL And Disney trips always do make things better... Now, if I can figure out a way to have one next year for when V is gone?

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

Yesterday was crazy... I think, by the end of the day, I'd made 5 trips to town? I think that's a record for me? And not one I am really proud of. LOL

I did my heavy lifting right away yesterday morning... It was a good lift - if slightly rushed at the end, as I had my first trip to town to do.

Then I came home and worked for a little while - I was able to make a dent in my work, which was good. Like I said - I am just trying not to fall behind... That is my only goal right now up there.

Victoria went to Valley Fair last night with her friend Anna, they are season passholders there again this year. Then we all had a nice quiet dinner at home.

Allison and I worked on a bit more packing. I think we are making progress there. Just trying to keep it from being overwhelming when she leaves.

That's about all for yesterday.

Today, I have a full plate - as Fridays are always busy for me, it seems.

I will be working a bit this morning.

I will be running errands like crazy - trying to get last minute stuff for Allison done.

I have an appointment this afternoon and not even a clue of what I am making for dinner tonight.

And above all, just trying to keep from crying too much. Sometimes i just have to focus on the little things.

I hope you all have a wonderful day today!!! Sending pixie dust out to everyone!

D~

 

[missjackiemcg]

Today was our ADR day, so I'm up bright and early this morning!!! Somehow I got lucky and the online system opened 10 minutes early! I was able to get everything we wanted except Hoop De Doo Revue, which I found out hasn't opened for booking yet the week we'll be there. Still sad for no Magic Kingdom Photo session that I really had my heart set on doing, but I was RELIEVED we got everything else. I even scored Be Our Guest on New Year's Eve--yay

Sorry for hijacking, just had to share with someone who gets it!! I told my husband we got everything booked and he said, "ok." AAHHHH!!!!

Keep busy, my friend!!!

 

[Terkina]

Sounds good that Myrthe's family can take some stuff with them if Allison don't have room for it all when she is going home.

I hope you have a good day and that you will be able to get everything you need for Allison.