I'm back...briefly.

So, I'm coming out of my haze..briefly...
I just hung up my cell on my husband because he was breaking up and I CANNOT stand to sit and listen to half and quarter words come through static on the cell. I don't think he's actually realized that I hung up on him.....HAH!
Thanks for all the birthday wishes and for stopping in to wish me well...I'm coming back...I am. Hopefully, by tomorrow I'll have something deep and meaningful to share...you know, just like before! ;)

On The Mend

Hot Doc, who my mother does not think is so hot (it was 6:30 in the morning!), did a great job. It appears the surgery was a success. I have a road of recovery ahead but hopefully this is the worst! Thank you for all the thoughts and prayers, hopefully I'll be back to blogging status in the next few days! :)

A Meme!

I have so much to blog about but I've been tagged and since I ADORE Huckdoll how could I not do it....


How long have you been blogging?
Hmmm....I started this blog in August of 2007. I have another blog that's all family and personal that I've been doing since March of 2007.

What inspired you to start a blog and who are your mentors?
I guess I never realized that blogging was anything more than a way to share family info with friends and well, family. Then I read about Dawn and her pokemon cards. I had a few friends tell me that the stories I told them about my kids and our lives were just as funny and that I should start writing them down. So I did- electronically. I realized that I could write about just about anything I wanted and I do.

Mentors? Um....negativo! The job is open if someone is looking....

Are you trying to make money or just doing it for fun?
I'm not trying to make money. I do have ads on my blog and I've posted once or twice for pay per post but that's about it. The money would be nice but this space really is for me and anyone who wants to read. I like the fact that I can share with people "out there" and have them respond. I don't think I blog for fun but I blog because I like it. I enjoy the friendships I've formed. I enjoy sharing myself with others and I know that the people who are reading enjoy reading or are doing it to see if I mention them. So I guess the answer is just for fun....

What three things do you love about being online?
1.) The People: I love having friends all over the world. I enjoy knowing that moms and women in Australia and Canada are dealing with the same crap that I am and that they express it and deal with it in a similar manner. And it's not just moms and women, I enjoy finding people who have similar interests or who come from similar backgrounds. It's just fascinating to me.

2.) The therapeutic factor: It's the best and cheapest therapy around. I can get my thoughts out and I know someone out there will have had similar thoughts or experiences. I also know that they are kind enough to share their experiences. It's this outlet for my words that I don't know if I ever had before, even when I was in therapy!


3.) The peeping Tom factor: Sounds creepy right? I just mean that it's interesting to me to read about other peoples' lives. I'm fascinated by people. A people watcher at heart, I love learning about others and getting to know them. This allows for all of that in a semi controlled environment!

What three things do you struggle with online?
1.) Time management: Lunanik said it perfectly, I hope she doesn't mind that I borrowed....
"This seems to be a common one for us bloggers. How to post, read, comment, and buzz without neglecting the children or slacking on the job. I'm still striving to find the perfect balance. But, I'm getting closer and closer every day."

2.) Certain Topics: There are things I'd like to blog about but don't because I know some of my readers and I'd rather not deal with the real life implications. Then there are topics that I love writing about and can't get enough of but I worry that people get bored with it.

3.) Blogging Rules: Apparently there are blogging rules that I never even realized existed. I need to keep up on these apparently....

NOT under the knife

So, I'm here, I'm posting, I'm NOT in surgery and won't be this week. It's a long story that ends with me being yelled at by a very unhappy woman who clearly needs a career change. It looks like it has been pushed back to next week pending approval. I'm tired of this shit. Seriously tired of it. I have never wanted to be cut open so badly in my life and now I just can't seem to make that happen. Thank you for all your well wishes and thoughts and prayers, I will carry them with me through next week and hopefully through my surgery! I'm still accepting food..... ;)
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Whymommy came through her surgery like a champ and is recovering nicely. Of course uncomfortable but recovering and the surgery was a success!! Thanks for visiting her and sending your thoughts her way, as well! I know she appreciated them!

Tomorrow

Tomorrow is the day for WhyMommy. Stop over and give her some well wishes. She's had an incredible journey and tomorrow is a long awaited day for her!

Ridiculous Reading Day

Today is reading day. For those of you who are not teachers or who have no idea what reading day is, allow me to explain. Reading day in college is a bit different from reading day in high school. In college reading day was the day before exams started, generally a Monday, and it was intended for a day of studying and reading and seeing professors to make sure you understood material. It was used for sleeping late, partying and drinking all day and selling back all of your books pay for your booze.

In high school reading day is the day before exams, this year a Monday, and it is intended for seeing all of your teachers and clearing up any questions or confusions you may have on the material that you will be tested on in the next few days. I am in school/work today. I am here until 1pm. I spent 4 days on exam review last week and my students asked me all the questions they had last week. Can you please tell me why exactly I'm here? It's going to be a long 5 hours.
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The Giants won last night and while I am an Eagles fan, I am excited that Big Blue is going to the Bowl! Seriously excited! I didn't jump and up and down and do a dance as the husband did last night when that last kick went through the uprights but I was excited. It's an exciting thing. It's impossible to live in NJ and not be some type of Big Blue fan or follower. It's un-American. Well, not really but you get what I'm saying. So Big Blue won. We're going to the Super Bowl and I'm Super Excited!
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Today is Martin Luther King, jr. day and I urge you to think about what this great man did for our country and people everywhere. I urge you to think about his dream and try to realize your own. While we may not all have dreams that are as humanitarian and far reaching as his was and is, our dreams our important and it takes courage to go after whatever it may be that we dream of. Martin Luther King, jr. had a dream of what seem impossible to people back then and while we may not have fully realized the extent of his dream I'd like to think that each day we get a bit closer to full realization.

I am happy to join with you today in what will go down in history as the greatest demonstration for freedom in the history of our nation.

Five score years ago, a great American, in whose symbolic shadow we stand today, signed the Emancipation Proclamation. This momentous decree came as a great beacon light of hope to millions of Negro slaves who had been seared in the flames of withering injustice. It came as a joyous daybreak to end the long night of their captivity.

But one hundred years later, the Negro still is not free. One hundred years later, the life of the Negro is still sadly crippled by the manacles of segregation and the chains of discrimination. One hundred years later, the Negro lives on a lonely island of poverty in the midst of a vast ocean of material prosperity. One hundred years later, the Negro is still languishing in the corners of American society and finds himself an exile in his own land. So we have come here today to dramatize a shameful condition.

In a sense we have come to our nation's capital to cash a check. When the architects of our republic wrote the magnificent words of the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence, they were signing a promissory note to which every American was to fall heir. This note was a promise that all men, yes, black men as well as white men, would be guaranteed the unalienable rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.

It is obvious today that America has defaulted on this promissory note insofar as her citizens of color are concerned. Instead of honoring this sacred obligation, America has given the Negro people a bad check, a check which has come back marked "insufficient funds." But we refuse to believe that the bank of justice is bankrupt. We refuse to believe that there are insufficient funds in the great vaults of opportunity of this nation. So we have come to cash this check — a check that will give us upon demand the riches of freedom and the security of justice. We have also come to this hallowed spot to remind America of the fierce urgency of now. This is no time to engage in the luxury of cooling off or to take the tranquilizing drug of gradualism. Now is the time to make real the promises of democracy. Now is the time to rise from the dark and desolate valley of segregation to the sunlit path of racial justice. Now is the time to lift our nation from the quick sands of racial injustice to the solid rock of brotherhood. Now is the time to make justice a reality for all of God's children.

It would be fatal for the nation to overlook the urgency of the moment. This sweltering summer of the Negro's legitimate discontent will not pass until there is an invigorating autumn of freedom and equality. Nineteen sixty-three is not an end, but a beginning. Those who hope that the Negro needed to blow off steam and will now be content will have a rude awakening if the nation returns to business as usual. There will be neither rest nor tranquility in America until the Negro is granted his citizenship rights. The whirlwinds of revolt will continue to shake the foundations of our nation until the bright day of justice emerges.

But there is something that I must say to my people who stand on the warm threshold which leads into the palace of justice. In the process of gaining our rightful place we must not be guilty of wrongful deeds. Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred.

We must forever conduct our struggle on the high plane of dignity and discipline. We must not allow our creative protest to degenerate into physical violence. Again and again we must rise to the majestic heights of meeting physical force with soul force. The marvelous new militancy which has engulfed the Negro community must not lead us to a distrust of all white people, for many of our white brothers, as evidenced by their presence here today, have come to realize that their destiny is tied up with our destiny. They have come to realize that their freedom is inextricably bound to our freedom. We cannot walk alone.

As we walk, we must make the pledge that we shall always march ahead. We cannot turn back. There are those who are asking the devotees of civil rights, "When will you be satisfied?" We can never be satisfied as long as the Negro is the victim of the unspeakable horrors of police brutality. We can never be satisfied, as long as our bodies, heavy with the fatigue of travel, cannot gain lodging in the motels of the highways and the hotels of the cities. We cannot be satisfied as long as the Negro's basic mobility is from a smaller ghetto to a larger one. We can never be satisfied as long as our children are stripped of their selfhood and robbed of their dignity by signs stating "For Whites Only". We cannot be satisfied as long as a Negro in Mississippi cannot vote and a Negro in New York believes he has nothing for which to vote. No, no, we are not satisfied, and we will not be satisfied until justice rolls down like waters and righteousness like a mighty stream.

I am not unmindful that some of you have come here out of great trials and tribulations. Some of you have come fresh from narrow jail cells. Some of you have come from areas where your quest for freedom left you battered by the storms of persecution and staggered by the winds of police brutality. You have been the veterans of creative suffering. Continue to work with the faith that unearned suffering is redemptive.

Go back to Mississippi, go back to Alabama, go back to South Carolina, go back to Georgia, go back to Louisiana, go back to the slums and ghettos of our northern cities, knowing that somehow this situation can and will be changed. Let us not wallow in the valley of despair.

I say to you today, my friends, so even though we face the difficulties of today and tomorrow, I still have a dream. It is a dream deeply rooted in the American dream.

I have a dream that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: "We hold these truths to be self-evident: that all men are created equal."

I have a dream that one day on the red hills of Georgia the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slave owners will be able to sit down together at the table of brotherhood.

I have a dream that one day even the state of Mississippi, a state sweltering with the heat of injustice, sweltering with the heat of oppression, will be transformed into an oasis of freedom and justice.

I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.

I have a dream today.

I have a dream that one day, down in Alabama, with its vicious racists, with its governor having his lips dripping with the words of interposition and nullification; one day right there in Alabama, little black boys and black girls will be able to join hands with little white boys and white girls as sisters and brothers.

I have a dream today.

I have a dream that one day every valley shall be exalted, every hill and mountain shall be made low, the rough places will be made plain, and the crooked places will be made straight, and the glory of the Lord shall be revealed, and all flesh shall see it together.

This is our hope. This is the faith that I go back to the South with. With this faith we will be able to hew out of the mountain of despair a stone of hope. With this faith we will be able to transform the jangling discords of our nation into a beautiful symphony of brotherhood. With this faith we will be able to work together, to pray together, to struggle together, to go to jail together, to stand up for freedom together, knowing that we will be free one day.

This will be the day when all of God's children will be able to sing with a new meaning, "My country, 'tis of thee, sweet land of liberty, of thee I sing. Land where my fathers died, land of the pilgrim's pride, from every mountainside, let freedom ring."

And if America is to be a great nation this must become true. So let freedom ring from the prodigious hilltops of New Hampshire. Let freedom ring from the mighty mountains of New York. Let freedom ring from the heightening Alleghenies of Pennsylvania!

Let freedom ring from the snowcapped Rockies of Colorado!

Let freedom ring from the curvaceous slopes of California!

But not only that; let freedom ring from Stone Mountain of Georgia!

Let freedom ring from Lookout Mountain of Tennessee!

Let freedom ring from every hill and molehill of Mississippi. From every mountainside, let freedom ring.

And when this happens, when we allow freedom to ring, when we let it ring from every village and every hamlet, from every state and every city, we will be able to speed up that day when all of God's children, black men and white men, Jews and Gentiles, Protestants and Catholics, will be able to join hands and sing in the words of the old Negro spiritual, "Free at last! free at last! thank God Almighty, we are free at last!"

http://www.usconstitution.net/dream.html

Finding out and Not Forgetting

So my one of my best friends thought that she and her husband were pregnant over these past few days. I have to admit that the thought of her being pregnant and having a baby got me beyond excited. Visions of maternity clothes shopping, registry planning, baby showering planning and 9 months of ultrasounds and ob appointments ran through my head and I was super psyched! Turns out they are not pregnant this month. That's ok. When it's right it will happen. And it will be even better because I will have had time to build it up and build up the excitement! It got me thinking about being pregnant and finding out we were pregnant.

Our son was "planned". We were trying for him. We were charting and trying and waiting. I clearly remember the Friday that I found out we were pregnant. It was my last day of work for the year. We got out early that year because of extensive construction on the school. I was late. Not for work. I took a pregnancy test and it was negative with my "first morning urine". I was disappointed but I went on my way and headed into work. That night I was planning on going out to dinner with a good friend and I needed to stop and get some wine, it was a BYOB place and clearly I could still drink. I went through my day and came home and got dressed and since I was STILL late I decided to take another test, my last one. You guessed it. It came out positive. WTH?!??! I was shocked. I won't deny it. The one that was supposed to contain the most hormone came out negative and then this spur of the moment one was positive. I had wine to drink. My husband wasn't home. Who was I going to tell? Who was I going to share this news with? I couldn't call my mom because we had worked out this special way we wanted to tell our parents when we found out we were pregnant and I didn't want to ruin that. I shared it with no one. I went on my way. Grabbed the wine and headed to dinner to meet my friend.

I got to the restaurant. One that we frequented so people knew us there and immediately took the wine from me. I had to grab it back. I didn't want it opened yet. The waiter didn't understand. Why I had brought wine if I didn't want it opened? My friend didn't understand either. I was confused. So we sat. I guarded the wine like it was my J-O-B. Then I looked at my friend and explained the situation. She was the very first person to find out we were expecting. We both decided she would drink for both of us. After dinner, I went to the supermarket and bought close to $60 worth of pregnancy tests because I wanted to be sure. I took one as soon as I got home and it was positive. Then I waited until I heard the husband upstairs and I immediately took another and surprised him with the positive test. My parents didn't find out until a week later because they were away in Florida and I didn't want to tell them over the phone. When they did find out we did it with special bibs and books about loving grandma and grandpa. It was great.

Our daughter, as I've mentioned before, was a BIG surprise. I had just gone through my second dose of radiation and we were told we wouldn't be able to have more kids for awhile, if at all. I was late, again. I woke up around 5 that morning....a Friday again I believe. I had taken a blood test a week earlier that came out negative (necessary for radiation). I had also taken 3 home tests that were negative. I had one test left and I decided to use it on whim just in case kind of thing. It was 5 in the morning. I was waiting for the shower to heat up. I peed on the stick and within moments it read pregnant (I like the digital tests, they're so much easier to read!). I can honestly say I have no idea what I did from that moment on. I know I showered. I don't know if I washed my hair or brushed my teeth. I know I told my husband first. I also know I left the pee laden test on his night table (he likes to mention that when I tell this story). I can remember being so afraid for the life inside of me. So afraid that the radiation had permanently scarred this child. So afraid that this life would not make it. So afraid of what the next 10 months would bring if this child did survive. It was a horrible morning. I spent my ride into work on the phone with my mother because I had no idea where to go or what to do. I told work that morning that I was pregnant. I spent the day on the phone with every doctor I knew and had ever seen. I'm pretty sure I was in my OB's office within hours of that positive test. Luckily, the next 8 months, while completely stressful and nervewracking, produced the most gorgeous red headed blue eyed little girl that anyone could ask for.

Those memories will never leave me. I don't forget easily. It really bothered me a few months back after my last dose of radiation that my memory was starting to fail me. It wasn't that general mom stressed out busy forgetfulness. I was forgetting everything and it really upset me. I remember everything. And I don't just mean information. I don't forget people. I don't forget to make sure people are ok. I don't forget to check on people that I care about or that I once cared about. And I always try to remember how much people mean to me or meant to me and that regardless of anything else they are still people and have feelings and needs. I don't forget.

I am so excited for the day that I get the message, in whatever form, that H and D are expecting. I know I'll immediately be on the horn to N to plan whatever we can. I know it will probably be a crazy 9 months. I know it will be 9 months of excitement and expectation and I know H can't wait, neither can I!! They may not be ready but I am!!!

Friday Ramblings

Well, hot doc handed down the word yesterday-Surgery. It looks like I'm going under the knife next Wednesday (hopefully, for work's sake). If not next Wednesday then definitely the Wednesday after that.

I'm a little nervous but it's supposed to really help me and maybe make things better. There were no guarantees given except that I will be in a sling, again, and I will be in recovery for at least 6 months. This is by no means ideal but it's necessary. I hate that it's necessary but it is.

I have a feel the blog may suffer the effects but I'm going to do my best not to let it! ;) I should be able to type I just have to position things in a good way, we'll see! I do ask if you're the praying type to send along any prayers you might have and any thoughts are more than welcome, too! If you live in NJ you could send along some food, if you want! ;) Just kidding.....sorta!
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So, it's exam time and end of the quarter and these heathens that I call my students are all of a sudden concerned about their grades. You know, now that there is no time left for them to pull them up or change them- they're worried about failing. OH WELL! I sound heartless don't I? I'm not. I'm actually quite forgiving but these kids are just over the top LAZY. Well, some of them. I mean, how exactly do you fail an open book take home test? COME ON!?!?!? SERIOUSLY?!?!? There's a little piece of me looking forward to the surgery because I get a break from my "lovelies".
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Did anyone see that episode of "Grey's" where the girl has the blushing problem and McDreamy is her doctor and every time she talks about him or thinks of him or sees him she turns BRIGHT RED ? Oh, you did? Good because now my reference isn't so vague and I don't have to explain it. Well, that was me yesterday with hot doc. Not sure why. I never really get like that. But when I walked out of the exam room my face and neck were EN FUEGO!! It was weird and embarrassing.
I'm still pretty nervous about what my slip out of my mouth once I'm under or as I'm coming out. The husband is going to be there and all I need is something like, "You're so beautiful. I write about you all the time on my blog." to come out of my drugged up mouth and that will be the end of life as I know it! Talk about blushing...I can feel my face heating up now as I write this just thinking of the embarrassment and the explanation to the husband. I haven't actually mentioned to him how good looking my doc is. OH WELL! ;)
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It's the weekend. I'd really like to go to the movies. Honestly, I'd really like to see "27 Dresses". I was thinking about going with a friend after exams one day next week but now with impending hot doc surgery it's not gonna happen. Our sitter is back at college and I think the husband is working both nights this weekend. I guess it can wait until video. I'm sure it's not Oscar worthy or anything but I would like to see it. Actually, I'd just really like to sit in a movie theater. The last theater movie I saw was "The Breakup". Yup, that's right the one with Jennifer Aniston and Vince Vaughn. Before that it was "Hitch". Sad, no?

Good Day Good Day!

People think I'm nuts for this but I gotta find something positive.....

I'm going to see hot doctor today. I'm super excited. I hope he never finds out about my blog. I tend to ramble when I'm under anesthesia. I'll need someone there when they put me under and take me out. Have I mentioned I'm excited to see hot doctor today? This day is going to draaaaaggggg. ;)

Gotta find the positives in this somehow. He better stay away from me with that damned needle, though! Happy Day!

It's the little things right? :)

It's Midterm Time, I don't have a Clever Title

Lunanik tagged me for a meme which I promise I will get to later on today or tomorrow!

So, the boy had his X rays done on Tuesday and the girl got three shots. It was a banner day and guess who took care of it all? The husband. Tuesday is his day off and since I knew he'd be home with the kids, I made the appointments so that he could take them. This would be a first. My husband has "tagged along" to the pediatrician with me and he's came with us when the boy had his surgery- duh- but he's never done the doctor alone with the kids. And as I'm sure some of you know, it can be an adventure to take any child to a medical professional!

I made sure to make the appointments for later in the afternoon so that there really wouldn't be any rush and the husband wouldn't have to worry about getting the kids up and out in the morning. The night before, Monday evening, I reminded the husband, "Don't forget you have to take the kids to the doctor tomorrow. The girl needs to catch up on vaccines and the boy is having his x rays done tomorrow." I knew he was only half listening because he was watching highlights from Sunday's games.
"Uh-huh."
"No, husband, you need to take the girl to the pediatrician and then I'll meet you at the imaging center for the boy's X rays. Did you hear me?" Only slightly annoyed because we'd gone over this about a dozen times.
"Wait, what? I have to take them to the doctor? Alone?"
"Uh, yeah. First the pediatrician and then I'll meet you for the X ray."
"I've never taken them to the pediatrician alone. How am I going to do that?"
I make my husband sound totally incompetent here but he's not by any means. I think any male would be thrown off by the daunting task of hauling two kids to the pediatrician alone. Hell, I'm thrown off by it! I can't stand taking them both in there if only one of them needs to be there!
We went over times and directions, etc. and it seemed like the husband was ok. When I left early Tuesday morning I wrote out a detailed note with times, where he needed to be, etc. and left it with his wallet- he would HAVE to see it! He did. I checked in with him once via text message during the day and otherwise assumed all was well. I left work and called him and they were already done at the pediatrician's office and they were killing time before the next appointment. We met at the imaging center and I can't say I was surprised but I had my faith in my husband reaffirmed.
My husband is a really good dad. Seriously good. When our son was born, my husband who had zero experience with kids jumped in with two feet and was GREAT. He has taken a completely hands on approach and just done it all! Seriously! Does it always do it happily? No, but neither do I. I don't know many parents who do. When our daughter was born he was a little thrown off by the girl factor but, again, jumped in head first and has been amazing. Not only was he great in caring for her but with everything that has been going on with my health and ppd and the accident he has just stepped up to the plate. Tuesday was no exception.
I met them at the imaging center and there was the boy ready to go and asking for his x ray. I hadn't explained it to him because I didn't want to scare him. The husband explained it in such a way that the kid was excited about it! And the girl looked great for someone who had just been stabbed three times by hypodermic needles. He told me that the boy was a great big brother and helped the girl through her shots and was very good all day. The girl took her shots like a champ, didn't cry on the first one, whimpered on the second and all out screamed bloody murder by the third- to be expected.
As I sat there and filled out the new patient information for the boy I watched the husband kick into Mr. Mom mode or really just continue in that mode. He pulled out a bottle, from the cooler bag (that I never use- I just stick one in my purse/diaper bag), for the girl. He had an endless supply of juice boxes and cookies for the boy. He had a binkie for the girl, just in case she needed to nap. He was ON TOP of it. It really made me happy to see. I was worried-I admit it. My confidence wavered. I didn't know what I would find when I arrived at the imaging center and I found this completely prepared Dad and totally happy and content children and I was thrilled- slightly jealous, but thrilled.
The boy also did amazing. This kid walked into the x ray room and didn't even blink an eye. There are these huge machines that still make ME nervous and I've had tons of x rays and my almost 3 year old little man is just fascinated by them. He proceeds to tell the technician that he's 6 years old....yes 6 years old. I guess he's just small for his age. Then he tells her that he has a little brother. Um, no and there isn't one coming. Then he correctly identifies the colors on his lead apron and mine and then we're ready to begin. I thought this was going to be a problem. I thought it was going to take 42 times to get these shots right and get the right angle. Nope. First shot. He did GREAT. They got a clear picture of his adenoids and now we just wait. I have a pretty good feeling that surgery is in his future and to be quite frank, I'm ok with that. The kid has not breathed through his nose since he was born. His tongue is constantly hanging out of his mouth because his mouth is always open to breathe. He does not sleep straight through at night although when he does wake up, he puts himself back to sleep. Occasionally in our bed but he does go back to sleep. He snores worse than the husband does and almost as bad as my dad does! So while surgery on my child is not something I am looking forward to it is something that I think would help him and make him better and I do think it's necessary.
We'll see where the road takes us. We see his specialist next week who will hopefully give us the word on the next step. I can vividly remember his ear surgery. That was one time that the husband was A-OK with being not being "mom". I got the special task of taking the boy into the operating room and staying there as they sedated him. I have a feeling that I'll get that job again and that's ok. I'm ready for it this time, although I can't bring any cookies or juice boxes with me.

Weigh In

Well, last night was my first weigh in after officially beginning WW and I lost 3.8 pounds! YES! Although, and I can't for the life of me understand why they won't allow this, if I had been able to strip down to my underwear it would've been closer to 5 pounds. But hey, who's counting? Me! I am happy about the loss though! Because Saturday and Sunday were extra food days and I thought for sure they would show up on the scale. If they did, they really didn't bring any friends!

Last week really wasn't too bad. I like weight watchers. It's easy. I know that when I reach goal I'm not going to put it all back on because I stop eating their food, like a Slim Fast or Jenny Craig type of thing. Someone made a good point at my meeting last night about eating in the real world. One woman was talking about how she eats the WW food and snacks, etc. I do too. Especially for lunch. It's SO EASY to pop something frozen in the microwave and just have it there. (I know TONS of Sodium. But I drink close to a gallon of water a day so I'm not too concerned.) Then another member, a man, mentioned how while that's a good idea he's trying to do this with real world food. He likes eating at diners, meeeee toooooo mmmmm gravy fries....mmmm..., anyway, so when he goes out he orders directly from the menu something that he'd like and he just modifies it. Like a chicken Caesar salad with the dressing on the side and no croûtons. Something really simple like that. I totally agree with him! I'm eating in a much more healthy manner but I'm eating real food. I'm scaling down portions, I'm making better choices. I'm doing a lot better. And I'm full faster than when I wasn't eating well.

Take Sunday for example. I went to a wedding shower at a restaurant in the city and I knew the food was going to be delicious because I'd been there before. YUM! I was anticipating pigging out. I had only had half of a grande Starbucks skinny latte for breakfast so I was at like 2 points used for the day. The apps started being passed around and I refused things that I would normally eat. Things that were fried. Things that were creamy. I refused them. Sadly. But I did it. Then it was time for the buffet and I loaded up on a lightly dressed heavily veggied salad, a tiny bit of pasta, some grilled veggies and two pieces of filet mingon-sorry won't pass that up EVER. And I was good! I had one cocktail and three pieces of cheese and I was good! I was really proud of myself. I even refused cake and it looked GOOD! But I felt really good about it all. Although I did get home and have something else to eat. But nothing terrible. I'm trying to live this real world style and I think it's working. I'm making small changes rather than drastic can't live with them forever ones and it appears to be working. Hopefully it keeps working. My pants feel a bit looser already. Yay me! :)
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On a different note, the boy is going in for X-rays today. Anyone ever have to take their almost 3 year old in for X-rays? Head and neck X-rays? Not me. This is a first. We have to have his adenoids checked because he has trouble breathing. I have a feeling they are going to be quite large and possibly need to be removed but I can't say for sure. I'm hoping that if they are removed it will help him breath better and sleep through the entire night. From what I've read it's possible that he's waking up in the middle of the night because he stops breathing. WHOA! I knew this before from when we saw a specialist back in September but it's gotten worse so I'm wondering if the adenoids have gotten worse! Plus, I'm pretty sure his tubes are completely gone- fallen out. Not a bad thing but his ears seem to be super sensitive now. Any experience out there with any of this?

On a cute note, I came home on Friday and the boy ran up to greet me and asked if he could make chocolate chip cookies. It was after 6, I was tired and I said I didn't know. He then asked if he and Daddy could make them. Well, that of course was up to Daddy. Daddy begins to tell me the story of how this all transpired.
The boy approached him and said, "Daddy, I have a great idea!"
"What idea is that boy?" says Daddy.
"We should make chocolate chip cookies. I think that's a great idea. We should make them right now, Daddy. Please daddy. Isn't that a great idea? I think it is." says boy.
"Well, let's wait until Mommy gets home and we'll see if we have everything." Replies Daddy.
Boy throws himself on the ground tells Daddy he's not nice and folds his arms and says, "It's a great idea Daddy. I want to make chocolate chip cookies."
Luckily, I, Mommy, walked through the door just at the end of that moment. And luckily we had all the ingredients for chocolate chip cookies. And luckily Daddy was willing to make them with the boy.
So, now we have chocolate chip cookies piled on our counter that taunt me every time I walk into the kitchen. Luckily, the boy and Daddy like them enough that they'll be gone quite quickly!

Another Letter to Mother Nature

Dear Mother Nature:

I'm just going to put this out there- you bitch! Blame it on the weather people if you must but this was all your doing! I stayed up late last night. I told my kid we could build a snow man today and play with snow balls if he would just go to sleep. I dreamed of doing laundry and cleaning up the final remnants of Christmas. You big 'ol B! I was promised snow and what did I get?!?! 3/4 of an inch and clean roads?!?! What is the matter with you?!?! Not even a delay?!?! COME ON!?!?!

Rumor has it that you're supposedly sending something for this weekend. Or actually possibly Thursday and Friday. It better be here by Friday morning. I better not be in school Friday. I better be seeing some white stuff on the ground when I wake up to the sound of my phone ringing and school being canceled. Heads will roll, Mother Nature, and I've got back up!

Sincerely,
Disgruntled in Exam Hell

Why

I've been a bad blogger, I don't deny it. I haven't written in close to a week. My reading has been less than Stellar. I've been completely out of the loop and I feel bad but oh well! I'm back...it was a long week that went by quickly last week. We have exams coming up and I've been consumed with that. Plus, I think I've been in a funk. I didn't really realize I was in the funk or am in the funk but I am. The holidays are over. Which, I'm kind of ok with but at the same time, they were so good and I enjoyed them that I wouldn't mind having them back. The house is a DISASTER because we get 15 minutes here or there to actually put stuff away. The weather has been weird which has of course brought colds back to our house. And I spent a lot of last week on the phone with insurance companies and doctors' offices and I just don't feel like doing it anymore.

I don't think I usually get these winter blues, or at least I've never noticed them in the past. And I don't think that I have the winter blues now but I think I'm just in a funk! It's that time after all the hoopla when you have to figure out how to pay for the hoopla and clean up after the hoopla and bring the kids back down from the hoopla and I think the hoopla took all the energy out of me so I don't want to do anything!!

It's funny, I didn't really write anything last week but I've been thinking about a lot and each time I think, "Hmmm, that's a good thing to blog about. I should do that." Then I go to sit down and actually write and I either fall asleep or I have papers to grade or an insurance company to yell at or an appointment to make. It just never ends! Which is ok, I know that's how it is, but I think it just caught up to me. You know?

One thing I have been thinking about it the question 'Why?'. In the past 2 to 3 years I have asked that question quite a bit and not so much in a serious, sad, depressed sort of way but just in passing, "Why this? Why now?" And it's not always about bad stuff, it can be about the good stuff, too. I try not to question the good stuff because it makes me feel very cynical and negative but sometimes I do wonder.

I'm not the type of person to blame things on God. I am Catholic, I practice my faith, I teach my faith, I believe in God, I trust God, I have pretty strong faith- I have to. Once in my life have I ever "blamed" God and really questioned motives or thoughts or his or her part. A friend of mine lost her father quite suddenly and violently when I was a senior in high school and I can vividly remember saying to my mother, "I don't understand why God would allow this happen." I don't think that God does these things. I think many things happen for reasons that we sometimes eventually understand and sometimes we'll never know and I do believe that a lot of it is part of some larger plan. But I think we make choices that are 100% ours. That's our free will. But lately, I've been thinking a lot about why. A lot of it has been related to my accident and unfortunately for reasons beyond my control (aka Legal) I can't talk about any of that and that's difficult for me. Some of it has been related to other things that just merit a passing why and an answer of, "because, that's just how it is right now and things will work out". A lot of it used to be about my health. I asked a lot of whys about my health and more often than not I would ask and then put it out of my head and forget about it because it really is often pointless. I can't know why right now. Over the years, I've gotten some answers to old why questions but the more recent stuff, I don't really know the answer and I'm pretty much ok with that.

So, I'm here. I've been asking why a lot. I wish I could talk about it more, maybe in a few months. I've been angry a lot, too. Again, wish I could share but can't. I think sharing the fact that I've been angry is enough right now because I'm sure many of you can understand what might be behind the anger. The winter appears to be getting back into full swing. My weight watchers is in full swing and I think I'm doing pretty well. I weigh in tonight...we shall see. I'm determined to get some cleaning done tonight before I pass out cold on top of all of my papers. And hopefully, I'll be leaving this funk behind and getting geared up for these next few weeks of business- the super bowl, two birthday parties to plan, a possibly surgery, and a big family wedding! It should be fun!

On a much lighter and fun note- I'm pretty sure the girl has said her first word, although everyone thinks I'm nuts. I heard her say 'hi' to me the other day when I said it to her. It was cute! Then this weekend she consumed, for the first time ever, sour cream, guacamole, and refried beans! I was shocked- as were my two friends who were with me! The child is an eating machine! It's a good thing I have her and the boy around- they keep me smiling and laughing (most of the time). Oh and the husband does, too! :)

I feel Blogtastic Today!

Wow! Three posts in under an hour!?!?! I must be crazy- or just avoiding grading papers!
I'm excited about the possibility of being paid to post...I think if it works, it could help a bit with our bills...we'll see!

I woke up this morning, couldn't find a thing to wear, threw on something I'm not happy with and ran out the door...late, as per the usual! :) I don't do my makeup at home, except for my eyeliner. I really don't wear much makeup. A little eyeliner- to distract from the giant dark circles under my eyes, some bronzer- to even out the paleness, some blush- to add some color to what I think tend to be washed out cheeks, and a little lipstick- to round it all out! Usually what I do is after I dry my hair I put on my eyeliner, a little perfume and I'm out! Then when I get to work I take two minutes and put on the rest of my makeup. I DO NOT do it while I'm driving. This morning was no different except I was unhappy about my outfit, feeling kind of dowdy and plump- thank goodness I signed up for WW last night! ;). I opened my visor mirror and started to put on my face and I noticed that my skin looks INCREDIBLE! Not perfect but it just looks really good! I felt really freshfaced and it looked healthy and, dare I say it, glowing. I put on a little less makeup than usual and left my car feeling pretty good about my skin and my day. It was just such a nice feeling to look in the mirror and be SO PLEASED with what I saw. I LOVED it and it's made my day go pretty well!
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On a completely different note, my daughter is starting to stand. I hate this part. This is the part where they get hurt. My mother will tell you that this is the part where I began my series of injuries that have lasted throughout my lifetime- when I began to stand and walk. I have this very odd feeling my daughter is going to be the same way. She's very physical, very strong. My dad called her a bull the other day because she was just so forceful in throwing her body around. She is really is quite powerful for such a tiny little thing!

Last night I got home around 7- HATE THAT- and I walked in to hear the boy saying, "Are you ok??" I assumed he and the husband had been wrestling and the boy kicked some place that shouldn't be kicked. Then I heard the screaming/wailing and I saw the tears and the girl wrapped up in the husbands arms, completely inconsolable. I took her from him and tried to comfort her but she was seriously just completely inconsolable! Apparently, she had pulled herself up and slipped and slammed her head on something on the floor. We think it was the tray from her highchair since she had just finished eating. She got scared and hurt. This is how the next few weeks and months are going to play out and this is the part I hate. I hate it almost as much as this, 'Let's put everything in our mouths phase so that mommy can do repeated finger sweeps on me'. (I really hate that phase!) I think it's wonderful that she's starting to become more mobile but it frightens me. I hate to see her hurt. I hate to see either of my kids hurt. And I know it's part of growing up and learning to walk but it's just so stress inducing- you know because the rest of being a parent isn't stress inducing.

So, the princess is starting to walk and I have a feeling we're in for quite a few bruises until she masters in and quite a few heart attacks on my part. But once she gets it, her big brother better watch out because I think she may just come after him first!

Pay Per Post is the Place for Me

So, here it is my first possibly paid post! I signed up with Pay Per Post, a website that I found through the Tattooed Mama. I decided that since I was on here at least once a day, I might as well try and make some cash from it, while still using my writing to express myself.

Pay Per Post was super easy to sign up with and actually has been a really great site. I was having an issue in the beginning trying to get my blog to work and make some of the tools work and I contacted them and within 24 hours PPP had contacted me back and was on top of the issue. There is an entire community of bloggers who are there for the same reason, to make a little cash or a lot of cash and to write. You create your own profile and within moments of being approved you're ready to start writing! I love that I have the opportunity to write and share and get paid for it, regardless of anything else!

I'm still getting into the swing of things over at Pay Per Post but so far I really like what I see. You don't have to take an opportunity that you don't want and there are tons available. Everything goes through PayPal so it's easy money transfer and the whole thing runs pretty smoothly! I think what I like the best so far is that when you sign on you can see what other bloggers are doing and how much money they've made thusfar and it's actually pretty "inspiring". I'm not looking for something where I can quit my job and blog full time but more like something that will add a little extra cash to our checking account each month and make the bills a bit easier to manage!

Pay Per Post has been super easy and I think it's really going to be worth it in the end! I love know that while my blog is a source of information and friendship for a lot of you, now it can also be the beginning of maybe a way for you to make a little extra cash, too!

get paid to blog

Paid To Post? Sounds Good To Me!!

Hi All!
I just wanted to let you know that I've decided to try and make a little extra cash with this blog. I signed up with a website that pays you for posting to see if it's profitable! I hope that I won't be losing my readers! I'll still be posting my edge of your seat normal posts but I'll also be throwing in paid and sponsored posts. They will be clearly labeled so you can skip right over them!
Thanks for Sticking around!

The Donut or the Doughnut- however you'd like to spell it

I told you I'd be singing a different tune by this week, and I am. Is it Friday yet?!?! I am so tired and I cannot figure out why! We did NOTHING this weekend...well, not true, but nothing exhausting. I'm just so tired. (And no I'm not pregnant. BITE YOUR TONGUE!) I think I'm going to leave work, finally get in and OFFICIALLY sign up for Weight Watchers and then go home and go straight to bed. And lock my bedroom door so that the husband and the boy can't join me at any point tonight!

While I haven't been officially following WW, I have been doing it somewhat unofficially. Although the 1/4 of an Italian sub last night, courtesy of my mom ;), might have pushed me slightly over points. I don't really care! I am really proud of myself today. I had my Lean Cuisine pizza, which is surprisingly good. These frozen meals have gotten somewhat tasty, finally! And I was sitting there drinking my water and chit chatting with my other fellow teachers- who also wish it were Friday or snowing- and I was contemplating a donut or doughnut. Someone had brought in DD today and left it in the faculty dining room. They were SO tempting. Really just so tempting. I wasn't hungry but I could've totally gone for one. I got up and perused the multiple boxes of sweet fried dough. Mmmmmmm they just look so good. I was looking for a sugared air raised one- none to be found. Ok, I'd take a nice glazed one. There it was. Did I really want it? How was I going to feel after I consumed it? Was it really worth the guilt that I knew I'd place on myself? No. I ignored the donuts. I didn't consume a single one! YES! I really felt like I had accomplished a tiny victory.

See, that's my problem...well, no...I can stay away from ice cream and candy and crap junk food, for the most part. My issue is not stopping. It's portion. It's knowing when to say no. We really don't have a lot of junk food in the house. There is ice cream but the husband eats that like it's cocaine. I've stocked the fridge with frozen entrees and WW desserts. I don't keep too much in the way of fresh veggies because they go bad too quickly. But I have plenty of frozen and some canned. It's a matter of me making it and then controlling myself. Hopefully, I'll be able to handle that this time around. I'm actually very excited to get this ball rolling. I love going into the meetings each week and the feeling deep down inside that I'm pretty sure I've lost something! I love seeing the numbers go down and the clothes feel looser. I'm excited for this journey and I really feel like I'm doing it more for me than to lose baby weight, or get ready for my wedding or get ready to have another baby or something like that. Those motivations are all wonderful but this time I think it'll stick because it's just for me and to feel good!

Although that donut would have made me feel good momentarily.....maybe....

Some More Ramblings

Can you tell I'm in a rambling mood? Reminds me of that Allman Brothers song. God, I used to LOVE the Allman Brothers...still do, just not as much! I could listen to "Melissa" and "Jessica" over and over again...I just loved the way they sounded.
I fell in love with AB during one of my first summers in West Virginia, I also fell in love with John Denver during one of those summers. I would go down with my church to help build houses or rebuild houses damaged by the 500 year flood that occurred in 1980s. (A la Habitat for Humanity, but not associated with them.) My parents actually helped to found the trip, along with a small group of girls from our youth ministry. It has been taking place for more than 20 years and it is an incredible project. But part of our time in WV, when not working on houses, was spent hanging around the VFW hall where we slept and ate. People would bring down their guitars and we'd sing or rather, they would sing while we played cards or just talked. It was a really good time. I loved the times I went. I enjoyed helping others and seeing the beautiful country. Each time we'd drive along the bumpy winding river road I would be sure to play "Country Roads" by John Denver because it was like going to a home away from home each summer. Those were great summers.
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The hot doctor was not so hot yesterday. Well, let me clarify that... He was hot. He's still quite beautiful, handsome, hot, whatever word you want to use. And his personality is still quite charming. And he's proving to me over and over again that he is an excellent doctor who does really take his time to examine each patient and case in a thorough and complete manner. But yesterday, for a few moments, not so hot. I expected to leave their with a date for surgery. Instead, I left with a bandaged, bleeding, sore shoulder. To determine what is completely going on inside my shoulder the doctor gave me some sort of injection. DIRECTLY IN MY JOINT. It was not fun. It was not pleasurable. And for those moments that I anticipated the needle and then actually felt the needle, he was not hot. So there you have it: Normally hot doctor wielding GIANT needle= Not. So. Hot.
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It's Friday. I'm so glad it's Friday. The husband has off tomorrow for the first time in WEEKS and I'm excited to get some stuff done around the house and run errands and just hang out. I am not looking forward to the one errand he needs to run. He needs new shoes. (My friend H will find this part kind of funny) I hate shoe shopping with my husband but I have to do it tomorrow because the boy needs a haircut and it's just easier to all go and get things done together. But, yes, I LOATHE shoe shopping with him. He is worse than a woman shoe shopping. Although, I really don't find women all that bad when they're shoe shopping. Most of them know what they want, where they can find it, and where they can get the best price for their size. BUT, I digress....My husband and shoes is the eternal battle. He often will choose comfort over style- understandable considering he's on his feet 90% of the day. But the style that comes along with his comfort is freaking hideous sometimes I just can't bear it! I also can't make a suggestion on a shoe that is nice looking and potentially comfortable because that immediately takes it out of the running for him. I'm hoping tomorrow is easy. The past few times have been, he's just gotten repeats of the shoes he was getting rid of. This time I heard him mention something about trying a new style. GREAT! Can't wait!!
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I don't know if I talked about Christmas on here but we had a really good one. We spent Christmas eve and day with family and then we were supposed to spend the day after with family but ended up in the ER instead. Pretty typical! :)
I do have to say that I was very lucky and people were very generous to my entire family. I received a number of nice presents including a beautiful silver locket from my parents and a gorgeous pearl and diamond pendant from the husband. There was one gift that I did not receive that I was hoping for, although I'm not overly disappointed about it. I was dying for a Wii. Seriously. I really wanted one. I still kind of do but I'm having a hard time reconciling the price with the actual item. My husband, or actually we, have a PS2 and an Xbox- regular Xbox, not 360. I was considering purchasing him a 360 for Christmas or his birthday but the cash went other places. Like bills and toys. Good thing I didn't because he really doesn't want one, I don't think. I think I'm pulling him over to the Wii dark side. Can I tell you part of the reason that I really want the Wii. Other than the fact that I'm super excited to clean up my bowling skills and work on some guitar hero moves. I hear it's pretty good exercise. Crazy right? So, I've been scouring eBay to see what they have and actually they have some reasonably priced. I may have to put away a little mad money each week and surprise myself for my birthday with a brand new Wii. We'll see. I wonder what the WW activity points are on that.
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I decided to email that friend I told you I had the dream about. It was weird. I spoke to two of my other friends who knew him and the one hadn't heard from him or his wife in awhile. But the other had run into him about a year ago in a bar and had a conversation with him that changed her. No details really necessary. It was just a weird conincedence because my friend and him were never close, just passing acquaintances kind of thing. Then I got in my car last night and I was listening to XM comedy and a comedian came on and started off his routine announcing that in July he will have been in remission for 3 years from his Non Hodgkin's Lymphoma. WHOA! That's what told me I had to try and contact him. So I emailed assuming he'd think I was nuts or not contact me back. Not only did he not think I was completely nuts, he thinks the dream was a sign that we needed to reconnect our friendship. He's perfectly healthy by the way. (I do have some other thoughts on this but I'll keep them completely private)
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My randomness has been because I can't think of any one big thing to blog about. Maybe I'm trying too hard. Maybe tomorrow we'll get some big boy underwear for the boy and see how we do with some potty training. Maybe tomorrow my husband will make my life incredibly stress free and buy the first pair of shoes he finds that comfortable AND stylish. Maybe tomorrow we'll take down Christmas, it is almost Epiphany. Maybe tomorrow I'll think of something more substantial to blog about because one of my bloggy friends will have given me a GREAT suggestion of something to write on. Maybe tomorrow I'll run into hot doctor and it will put a little shine on my weekend. Definitely tomorrow I'm going to enjoy my family, run a bunch of errands and take the kids to see their grandpa and get some yummy Italian food. It'll be a good day and a good weekend, hope yours is just as good!

Back to School Randomness

Did you ever have a dream that was so vivid and real that it frightened you? Not a nightmare type of thing but a dream that really was just SO REAL. I dreamed last night that an old friend of mine, who I haven't spoken to in a long time, came home and told me he had been diagnosed with Non Hodgkin's Lymphoma. It was strange and so specific. I don't normally dream that way. He came home and he had a little boy and I can even remember the car seat he had his son in in my dream. (He currently does not have any children.)
The dream went by quickly. It went from him coming home and trying to cover it to it being drawn out of him to him telling me that treatments weren't working and that they were trying chemo. (I don't even know if chemo is an option for that type of cancer.) I woke up in the middle of the night thinking, "Oh my God I have to get in touch with him. What if something is really wrong?" The whole dream was scary, not nightmarish but scary, worrisome, so vividly real. I fell back to sleep and then dreamed about my students not turning in their winter break assignments. I got into work this morning and wouldn't you know it, my first period class had a handful of kids who didn't turn in the assignment and are now receiving zeros as test grades for the assignment. Strange dreams. I sometimes feel like I've dreamed something and then I live it. De ja vu type of thing, you know? I'm hoping that my first dream is not indicative of that.
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Vacation ended for me this morning. I went back to work. After a restless night and fitful dreams I arose bright and early and made it out the door, late but counting on little to no traffic. I headed straight for Starbucks and lo and behold it was closed! DOH! I completely forgot that it was closing for a move until early Spring. That just sucks, now doesn't it!?!?!
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Yesterday was really quite perfect. A great way to end a too fast vacation. I slept in, briefly, and then the kids and I enjoyed the day together. I had things that I wanted to get done. I had things that I wanted to clean and papers I wanted to grade. I wanted to run a few errands and head to Weight Watchers. I had things that needed to get done. Well not really needed but I really wanted to get them done. I decided that instead of rushing all over God's green Earth in close to below freezing temps that we were going to spend the day inside in our pjs. And that's just what we did. The boy was pretty well behaved. The girl slept for close to 3 hours in the morning. We just enjoyed hanging out, playing with Legos, and snuggling on the couch. Around 4 or 4:30 the boy finally conked out on the couch and I was able to get up and clean a bit. The girl sat in the kitchen while I cleaned up the remainder of our New Year's "extravaganza". Dinner was put in the oven and when the husband came home all was calm and well in our house. I didn't spend the day stressing. I was calm and collected when the boy started to act up and I think that really helped to curb his acting out and up. It was just a really good way to end vacation on a high note. Too bad I didn't let it begin that way!
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I'm going to see my orthopedic surgeon today. He's actually my surgeon for my shoulder. I have a different one for my knee. I've known my knee surgeon since I was about 14. I love him. He jokes that my injuries have put his son through medical school AND law school. I don't think he's kidding.
I really like my "new" surgeon. He specializes in shoulders. His mom went to my college. He is from the same town that my best friend is from. And he is HOT! Oh and he's a good doctor....really good. As much as I'm not so sure I want the results from my procedure last week, I am "happy" to be going to the doctor. It's nice way to end the day....
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We folded all of our laundry last night and changed the sheets on our bed and I felt the biggest sense of accomplishment! It's like I have an entirely new wardrobe now!! I can even see the hope chest that my bridesmaids gave me for our wedding that sits at the end of our bed. It's normally covered in clothing. I can't wait to get home and get into bed and read and relax tonight! Tomorrow's Friday! YES!
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I woke up to my son in bed with us this morning. He probably arrived sometime after my crazy scary dream. After my shower I was getting dressed, in the dark of our bedroom, and our son was tossing and turning. He was fast asleep. I'm not sure what he was dreaming about but it involved his sister because he started yelling at her in his sleep. She must've been playing with his toys. I couldn't help but laugh.
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It's really not so bad being back at work. I had two paychecks waiting for me....I'm sorry, waiting for me to deposit them and pay our bills. I had a bunch of cards from my co workers wishing me a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. And I had a classroom that feels like a SAUNA. Maybe I don't need to do any activity points today...I can just sweat while I teach. At this rate, I'm going to need to shower before I leave to see the ortho!!
Tomorrow's Friday, I'm sure I'll be singing a different tune next week!!
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So far, 2008 has been pretty good. It's gearing up to be a great year. I'm excited for this fresh new start. I'm excited to regain some of myself this year and really take control of my weight and health. I'm excited to plan 3rd and 1st birthday parties. I'm looking forward to starting a new semester of grad school. I'm excited at the prospect of a whole new year of possibilities and dreams (maybe not such "scary" ones!) and hopes. If it's half as good as yesterday, than I'll be quite the happy woman!

Forget What I Said, I have a Resolution

Maybe it's not a resolution but it's pretty close to it. Here is what I've decided for this year and hopefully I'll be able to stick to it because I only have until February. I have resolved to have my son potty trained by his 3rd birthday. There you have it. It's in writing out in cyberspace for all to see and hold me to. My son will be using the potty regularly by his third birthday at the beginning of February.

Up until now I haven't been so concerned with it. My pediatrician made it clear to me at his 2 year check up that it was not a big deal for him not to be potty trained before he hit the big 3. That made me feel good. I felt like I didn't have to stress over the potty if he didn't seem ready. He hasn't seemed ready. I am now ready. I am ready to tackle this head on and the husband is, too. The boy seems ready as well. He knows when he's pooped and he wants to be changed. It's time!

That's my resolution. This child will be peeing and pooping on the potty like a pro by February 10th and if he's not, well I don't know...I'm not letting that be an option!

Any moms out there who have had success with potty training your sons please share your tips and methods because I'm starting from square one with a Dora potty seat and a lazy little guy who doesn't want to take a break from playing to pee!