Lackadaisical Motivation

Update on the clutter

2010-09-20T10:05:00.003-05:00

I felt much better after writing that post the other day about the clutter in our house. Putting it out there kept it on the forefront of my mind (where it had already been for several days, but now I have a plan). Yesterday I woke up early to start decluttering and, again, became almost too overwhelmed to even start.

To get things I don't use very often out of the kitchen, I needed to make room in the laundry room closet to put them. That meant I needed to spend time in the laundry room first. I opened the closet and there was just so much STUFF. I can't even tell you half of what was in there.

Some of it was food that never fit in our kitchen pantry (how blessed are we that we have too much food to fit into a pantry?!) and had expired (see mom! it happens to me too :) ). I needed to throw it out, but our trash can in the garage was already overflowing with garbage.

I almost quit before I ever got started. I knew I was about to make at least 3-4 more bags of trash and knowing I couldn't put it in the trash can nearly prevented me from even trying.

I literally had to talk myself into JUST DOING IT. Just start. "Pick up something and go" is what I told myself.

And so I did.

I got the closet mostly organized. Although it wasn't a complete cleaning out (I didn't go through the box of scarves/gloves/winter accessories and I didn't move the boxes of unopened appliances that we received at our wedding and haven't yet used (the clothes iron, the waffle iron and the electric carving knife)), I rearranged things to make room for the incoming appliances from the kitchen.

I did get rid of some recipe books. I put them into a box that had been cluttering the laundry room floor for months (which contained books from upstairs, including more cookbooks, that I had set aside to donate to Goodwill).

That box is full and I WILL get rid of it TODAY!

I also cleaned off about 3/4 of the counter tops in the kitchen!! I moved appliances that only get used a few times into the cabinets underneath.

Now I have more counter space near the sink so more dirty dishes can pile up :)

Although I know I accomplished quite a bit, I don't feel like it SHOWS. It was one of those days where you work, work, work but you don't feel like you got much accomplished. I guess thats because I know I have much more ahead of me to do.

But, I AM getting there. I'm not usually a "slowly but surely" kinda gal, but I need to be when it comes to decluttering.

Side note: At one point I stopped to take pics for a before-and-after post, but then ditched that idea b/c I viewed it as yet another procrastination attempt!

My world of excess

2010-09-18T20:39:00.002-05:00

With a 7 week old baby at home (SEVEN WEEKS! Unbelievable), our house looks very different than it did pre-baby.

The reality is that the clutter is not really due to the baby gear. I've just noticed our existing clutter more now that we have baby stuff here and there.

I'm an organized person. My day is often organized. My purse is organized. Most important things in our house have a home.

I'm running out of places to put things, though. Which leads me to a very important conclusion: we have waaaay to much stuff.

I've spent the better part of this evening being thoroughly annoyed with STUFF. There isn't a flat surface in our house that doesn't have a pile (and, much to my dismay, the piles have piles).

I'm living in a world of excess and it needs to stop.

I've really struggled this past week or so with how much time I should be spending cleaning b/c I have this precious baby at home and I don't want to waste even one minute of time I could be spending with him. But the reality is that he sleeps. A lot. And he's sleeping really well at night, which means I'm also sleeping really well at night. Which means I don't need to sleep during the day when he's sleeping. Which ultimately means I should have some time I could be spending make our house a home and not a pile of piles.

My on-going plan is to declutter (I don't think it's an end goal b/c there will always be stuff).
Here is my plan:

1) Start in the kitchen. We spent quite a bit of time in the kitchen so if we start there, I should feel better about our efforts b/c I'll notice it more (as opposed to, like our master bathroom closet, which we use, but not necessarily on a daily basis).

2) Move onto the bedroom.

3) Repeat steps 1 & 2 :)

Interestingly, I stood up tonight, walked into the kitchen to start my project and just got completely overwhelmed so I came back to the couch and decided to blog about it instead :)

Before I start, I have to have a mental game plan. I need to know generally what my plan of attack is before I start chipping away.

For example, before I start cleaning out cabinets, I need boxes ready to accept things I plan on donating to Goodwill. So I really need to locate couple of good boxes.

I feel like I can't start one project without first doing something else. This faulty thinking prevents me from actually doing any decluttering. It's a procrastination technique.

But that ends today.

I've learned that there are several key items that I have an excess reserve of and as such, those items are consuming valuable cabinet and pantry space. I need to decide what to keep of the following items and what to donate:

1) Glasses/cups/mugs- I have waaaaaaaaaaaaaay too many glasses (cups). We have two shelves of glasses that we've almost never touched since moving in back in November 2006. I keep them "just in case." Just in case what? We host 102 people at our home and I insist on using actual glasses instead of the standard red Dixie party cups? YEAH RIGHT!

Even knowing we have too many glasses, I still insist on purchasing the $0.99 Coke glasses from McDonalds every time they're sold. WTH? ENOUGH already! Seriously, I need a glasses intervention STAT.

2) Cook books- Let's admit a reality: I cook, like, once a week. And, it's usually hot dogs and beans. Last I checked, I didn't learn how to cook up a weiner from Good Housekeepings Top 100 Recipes of 2007. I'm pretty sure I haven't made a new recipe out of a cookbook in at least a year. Despite this fact, I've acquired at least 4 cookbooks in the last 365 days.

Another reality: there is only one cookbook I use- it's a homemade one that my Aunt Sher compiled for us as a wedding gift. It's a book of recipes that she gathered from our closest family and friends. I LOVE it. I use it all of the time. In the rare instance than I find a recipe out of another cookbook that we like, I put it into Shennie's cookbook.

I need to keep a few cookbooks that I think we'll like and purge the rest of them AND agree to not acquire any more until we're cooking more homemade meals.

3) George Foreman grills- I'm totally serious. I'm pretty sure we have THREE Foreman grills. Well, maybe we have two. Regardless, I use it (the small one) maybe twice/year. So why is it taking up precious space in our kitchen island? And the other one (the BIG one) is taking up valuable space in the pantry (it takes up about 1/2 of the shelf it resides on). Unacceptable.

4) Glass baking wear- I rarely cook, yet I own no less than 4 9x13 glass dishes in addition to my CorningWear. Again, in what situation would I have the need to use FOUR glass casserole dishes? It's a similiar situation with glass mixing bowls. I have TWO sets of glass mixing bowls that I NEVER use. When I need mixing bowls, I exclusively use my THREE sets of Pampered Chef bowls AND my TWO sets of Oxo rubber-soled bowls. You read that correctly. I own THREE of the same set of Pampered Chef bowls (side note: I LOVE those bowls and when I do bake or cook, I use them quite a bit, so those were a good investment).

If I declutter the aforementioned items, then I'll have more cabinet and pantry space in which to store the stuff that is currently cluttering the counters (blender, toaster, toaster oven, bowls, etc).

It would be really nice to walk into the kitchen and have visible countertops.

When my house is clean, my life is in order and I tend to eat better, sleep better, exercise and generally be in a fantastic mood. (Side note: let's not assume that once my kitchen is decluttered that I'll drop 20 lbs...but it's a possibility ;)- or maybe that is my procrastination method for nothing having lost more weight!)

I'm hoping that with this plan, my world of excess will shrink. I know I don't NEED this stuff and I'd like to do without it.

Here's to trying!

Cheers!

2009-07-13T18:47:00.004-05:00

I can't seem to find much to blog about these days. Work and fun consume my time, so that doesn't leave time for much else. Having said that, I'm contemplating starting a health care blog. A blog where I can express my thoughts on health care, especially considering all of the attention and urgency that seems to surround that topic these days.

I've even gone so far as to design a banner for my not-yet established blog (nothing too fancy-schmancy). I don't want to reveal it b/c I don't want someone stealing it before I actually put the blog together.

The reason I'm contemplating another blog is because 1) I barely keep up with this one, am I delusional thinking I could have yet another blog? and 2) everything you do online is traceable and I'd hate to say or do something that someone could construe as me representing my company, rather than just giving my opinion. If I did have one, it would likely be anonymous (except that I would email you the link if you really wanted to follow me....). So, email me if you want to follow my not-yet established health care blog. If/When I start it, I'll let you in on the secret.

OK, onto the real blog for today. Another edition of Friend Makin' Monday:

List 5-10 of your favorite things!

These can be things you think everyone must have, a collection of things you have, or some product or miracle invention that has changed your life ...it's YOUR list of favorite things...HERE are a SOME of mine!

NFL Football (especially The Colts)
I love watching football! Sunday afternoons in the fall are probably my favorite thing in the world. Football with chili and a fire in the fireplace...I'm in Heaven!

Cruising
Cruises are my escape. In this day and age of cell phones, texting, and non-stop emailing, being out in the middle of the ocean surrounded by beautiful Caribbean blue water with the sun shining down on me is the best get-away I can imagine. If we vacation to Florida or Seattle or New England, as much as I try, I have a difficult time "cutting the cord" from my mobile device. I check work email, personal email, and I text all week. On a cruise is the only time I truly allow myself to be untouchable. It's fantastic and truly a mental break for me. On a cruise, my favorite thing is lying in bed at night with the balcony door open, listening to the waves crash against the ship, and falling asleep to the gentle rocking of the ship.

Several people have tried talking us into an all-inclusive resort (instead of a cruise), but the things I love about a cruise are unique to cruising. We'll try a resort...someday.

My Laptop
Despite my aforementioned desire to escape from technology, I really do love my laptop! It's not a Mac (I've never even see a Mac in real life!), but I love it anyway! I love reading blogs and finding new friends online. I used to read up on politics and the news more, but when I committed to simplifying my life, those two were the first things to go. I'd rather find a new, interesting blog than read about what idiotic policies some brain dead politician is trying to force through Congress.

Cooper

I love, love, love our dog, Cooper. I actually feel sorry for people that have a dog that isn't Cooper. He is such a good dog! He's well trained, fun loving, laid back, engaging, loveable little guy. I'm trying to think about anyone that has stayed the weekend with us that hasn't asked us if they could steal him. At Camp Bow Wow, he is dubbed the Wal-Mart greeter since he is known for welcoming the new dogs into the pack. When a dog is dropped off at Camp, he walks over to them, sniffs them up and down, walks them over to the crowd, introduces the dog, then walks away once they are settled in. He is also used as an interview dog since he's such a good dog. Even though he's a good size, he is anything but intimidating.
He doesn't bark except when we're in the basement and someone rings the door bell. Thats the ONLY time he barks.
I LOVE COOPER!

Accessories!
I love shoes, purses and jewelry. I actually have a very plain wardrobe because I dress outfits up with accessories. Thats the biggest challenge when I travel. I tend to pack 5-7 pair of shoes and 1-2 purses.

Bookstores
One of my other favorite things to do besides cruising is to go to a local bookstore, find a few interesting books, grab a latte or fruit smoothie and read parts of each book while sitting in the big comfy chairs. I usually pick up books that I wouldn't normally purchase. Or, I'll read a book that teaches me about something. It's quiet and relaxing.

Organizing Things
I love most things related to organization. Bins, totes, sorters, boards, anything that is used to keep me organized. I could spend my whole life at The Container Store and Bed, Bath, and Beyond. *confession time* Even during a "quick" run into Target for something, I'll take a small detour through the organization section on my way to the check out lane! I go out of my way to see whats new!

I just realized that most things on my list aren't really "things"....like tangible things. It's more things I like doing. Thats OK, right??! Hubs says I'm too practical to have "things" that I love :) He's right! I'd rather spend my money making memories rather than buying things.

Confessions

2009-06-15T19:15:00.002-05:00

Came across this on another blog and I'm playing along!

Confessions

1) I love watching The Disney Channel. Because of Hubs profession (psychologist), we don't watch the news (which is what I used to watch to put me to sleep before we got married) so we decided we needed something light and fun, so we usually either fall asleep to Hanna Montana or Wizards of Waverly Place.

2) We TiVo the aforementioned shows and sometimes I watch them while ~~shoving clothes into drawers~~ folding laundry.

3) As a child, I would pretend that the boy I was crushing on could see me all the time. This helped me watch what I eat, sit up straighter in class, and smile more often.

4) I cash my reimbursement checks from work and keep the money to buy $1 ice cream cones so Hubs doesn't know I eat them when he's not around.

5) Through someone else's Facebook account, I was able to see pictures of an ex-boyfriend (OK, I only have 2 serious exes so it shouldn't be too difficult to figure out who that is) and he has a beautiful family and he hasn't gained one damn pound. I mean really, who goes 13 years without gaining ANY weight. Bastard.

6) Occassionally I throw away some of Hubs clothes without his knowledge.

7) I don't go to the lady doctor like I should. It's been...well, years.

Need to get something off your chest? Play along!

Paris

2009-06-05T17:14:00.001-05:00

I'm camped out poolside at the Paris Hotel in Las Vegas. It's perfect.

We did it!

2009-04-19T14:15:00.003-05:00

For many months I've been wanting to make these cupcake pops from Bakerella. With the rainy weekend we had, I knew this weekend would be the perfect time to try them. Hubs helped out and he deserves just as much credit for their success.

They are quite a bit of work, but well worth it!

I think they turned out cute, don't you?

We also made just a few regular cupcake bites and here's our pre-consumption cheers!

It definitely seemed like a two person job. I'm not sure how Bakerella does it by herself.

We will for sure make these again. In fact, I hope to be known for them within our family. Craig's Aunt Carol makes these awesomely decorated sugar cookies and everyone looks forward to holidays because they know they'll get to eat some of her cookies. Maybe as I practice making these cupcake bites and become good at them, they'll make me popular at family functions, too :)

Disney gear

2009-04-06T16:19:00.004-05:00

I'm currently in Orlando at the second largest meeting of Family Physicians in the country. We presented this morning and it was a big success! We got great feedback from those who attended our talk.

This afternoon, we headed over to Disney World to hit up the Disney Store. We had hoped to visit the park (Magic Kingdom) but the weather wasn't cooperating.

I snagged this really cute and funny mug at the Disney Store. I got an even funnier one, but I think I'll give it as a gift to my older sister.

Isn't this too cute?

Notice the donut in Minnie's right hand and all of the pink in her outfit? Thats totally me....Minnie me ;)

Orlando is really fun. Craig and I should trip back here sometime. Alright, time to head out for a seafood dinner with the folks!

Starting over

2009-03-24T07:28:00.001-05:00

This is how my day started. My coffee cup split in half. I hadn't even taken a sip from it.

I'm going home and will return to start my day over.

(Notice the bottle of Vitamin D on my PC stand... Good thing it sought higher ground during the Great Coffee Spill of 2009.)

What I'm doing right now....

2009-03-16T12:50:00.001-05:00

Trying to jump my car!

St Pattys festivities

2009-03-14T17:16:00.000-05:00

This is the greencolada I'm currently enjoying. Yum!

She's headache free!

2009-03-03T17:17:00.001-06:00

This is what a headache free mom looks like!

If you've been following my moms surgery story on facebook, then you know the surgery went well but she's had a monster, non-stop headache ever since.

Late this afternoon, anesthesiology came by and confirmed it was likely a spinal headache (from the anesthesia yesterday). About 30 minutes ago they took her downstairs where she got a blood patch.

And now... She's headache free!

She's like a whole new person! She has said that she could handle the hip pain OR the headache, but not both. Now that shes headache free, shes energetic, smiling and HUNGRY!

We're so thankful shes back to being Mom :)

Thanks to all for the happy thoughts and prayers!

It's in the bag baby!

2009-02-16T17:52:00.017-06:00

Connie wants to see what in my bag. She thinks I'm organized or something.

I own a Butler bag, as seen on Oprah (don't hold that against me).

Here's my purse and all of its contents (read the list, even I can't believe some of the stuff in my purse- click for larger images). I enjoyed doing this because it gave me the chance to clean it out:

Pink Wallet
Animal Print Wallet
Business Card for Lisa from Budgetude
My Planner
Packaged Pens (different colors since I color coordinate my planner)
Advil
Visine
Chapstick
3 bags of my daily pills (half empty- see my Facebook "25 Things" to learn how I tend to not finish things- this includes my pills!)
Sunglasses
Stack of mail
My high school report card (long story about why this is in my purse)
A reimbursement check from work
My Sirius Stiletto
Two containers of hand sanitizer
Package of emery boards
Nametag for the Chamber of Commerce
A frog pin that a friend gave me
Contact case
Cell phone
Vera Bradley makeup bag
AZO pills (for my used-to-be-frequent UTIs...have only had ONE in the past 2 years, but I still carry the pills with me "just in case")
Hair clip
3 sets of keys
A funny birthday complete with a stamped envelope (I carry it around so I can drop a card in the mail at the last minute if need be)
Checkbook with the "Checking" account label (I LOVE labels!)

The last pic is the "after" picture-- I got to put everything back in and its a little more organized now. Thanks Connie!

It's a deal!

2009-02-16T11:33:00.006-06:00

If you're addicted to organizing and sorting like I am, then chances are, you'll love this deal too!

At OfficeMax you can get a Brother label maker for $10! It originally retails for $40, but it's on sale for $10 right now. It is the exact labeler I use at work:

Here's the catch: it's a higher end machine and the tape for it is approx $25/roll. So depending on how much you plan on using a label maker, a $25 recurring expense could be cost-prohibitive (as it was for me).

HOWEVER- while looking at label makers, I found a Brother Home and Kitchen labeler for $20 and the replacement tape is only $11. Even though the actual label maker was twice the cost of the other Brother, the recurring costs will be much less; therefore, I went with the Kitchen and Home label maker:

This one really is made for Kitchen and Home as it has a Date/Time stamp. If you're someone that labels your food prior to storing it in the freezer, this feature would be helpful. Just click the date/time stamp then print and slap it on the container.

I haven't actually used the labeler yet, but will let you know when I do!

Blogging has taken a back seat lately....life remains busy for us. We've got family coming into town at the end of the week for Rebecca's Baptism, so Hubs and I have spent some time preparing the house for our guests. I'm SO excited that my Aunt Janet is coming out! My grandparents never made it out to see our house before they passed away, but with Aunt Janet coming, I feel like I would if they were coming. I want everything to be perfect!

Ben and Becca are coming over today since Jennie has to work (we have today off for President's day). Ben and Craig will play video games (mostly Mass Effect) and Becca and I will hang out together. She's the bestest goddaughter in the history of goddaughterness.

Just now

2009-02-15T11:57:00.003-06:00

Me: What do you want for lunch, honey?
Hubs: Dunno. What are you having?
Me: Leftover Red Lobster from the other day when mom and I went at lunch.
Hubs: I WANT RED LOBSTER!
Me: There's barely enough for me. What else do you want?
Hubs: I told you, I want Red Lobster *getting more whiney*
Me: I'm sorry, honey, there's not enough. It's just not possible.
Hubs: We're in America. Anything is possible.

Live blogging: outside our house

2009-02-10T19:15:00.002-06:00

This is one of three fire trucks currently surrounding our house.

Dont't worry. Everything is OK....its at our neighbors house and it doesn't appear to be urgent. Because our house in on a corner lot, we are literally surrounded by big, red flashy trucks.

And...men in uniform :)

What I'm doing tonight

2009-02-06T19:36:00.000-06:00

Babysitting Seventeen.

And I love it.

What in the...

2009-01-31T09:52:00.000-06:00

We're sitting outside of Sears, waiting for it to open and theres a chic with a stroller and a giant stuffed duck also waiting to go inside.

Why would you bring a giant duck to Sears?!

I witness the wierdest things in this town...last thing I took a pic of with my cell phone were bananas on skateboards.

Who needs NYC when you have giant ducks and skateboarding fruits?

Where we are

2009-01-28T17:23:00.002-06:00

Like most of our friends and family, we've experienced quite a bit of winter weather 'round here. Cooper has especially enjoyed the cold, white, fluffy stuff :)

I snapped a few pictures yesterday and today. We averaged about 6 inches in the last 24 hours. The clinic opened late today due to the weather. I've not slept well the last two nights b/c I have to wake up and decide whether to open the clinic. Afraid I would sleep through my 5:00am alarm, I pretty much woke up every hour on the hour starting about midnight until 4:30am when I decided to just get up b/c I wasn't sleeping anyway.

I'm hoping with the inclement weather behind us, I'll sleep better tonight.

Here are a few pics...enjoy! (notice the snow on Coopies nose in the second picture...he's so dang cute!)

Our patio table out back

Cooper Dooper

My car outside the office at about 6 am today

A picture I snapped on the drive home last night from Scott and Robin's house around 11:30pm. I thought the night was so beautiful; I had to capture it.
(P.S. we got a lot more snow after this picture was taken!)

My new favorites

2009-01-21T19:08:00.006-06:00

I have two favorite new gadgets.

1- The Z-Pen digital pen I got for Christmas. It's a pen that digitally remembers what I wrote and then plugs into my PC and downloads the notes I took and saves either as an image or as a PDF. I LOVE IT! I use it all the time at work. There is also OCR capabilities, but I haven't installed the software to do that. Its working just as I need it to, so why bother :)

2- The Magic Bullet (get your mind out of the gutter...it's a blender).

I make no less than 2 fruit smoothies a day (usually one for me and one for Hubs). They're soooo quick and easy using TMB. You literally put the ingredients into the cup, screw on the blade, blend for about 10 seconds, and then take off the blade, put on the colored ring and drink! I cut up the fruit before I put it in the cup (helps it fit better), but you don't even have to do that. You could just throw in strawberries and 2 banana halves, add crushed ice and some OJ...blend and BAM!

I've also made hummus and guacamole using TMB.

My favorite thing is that the blender becomes the mug. You don't blend the ingredients and then pour the smoothie into a cup.

My Sister-in-love asked for one for Christmas, so before we purchased it for her, I got online to research it b/c I didn't know what TMB was or how it worked. Then when we tripped down to KY for New Years, I picked one up (on a whim) at Costco. The mother-in-love got one, too. I couldn't be happier with this snap decision purchase!

Without a doubt, it is one of the best purchases I've made in a long time.

They cost about $50...but if you catch a sale, you can get 'em for less than $40.

It's definitely worth the price. I use mine twice a day, MINIMUM. I've already used it 3 times today :)

The most difficult part of eating healthy is keeping enough fruit around to make the smoothies. I've already RUN OUT of strawberries and bananas...TWICE! Seriously, how many of you ever imagined I would complain about not having enough FRUIT around?

You can make much more than just smoothies. Besides the aforementioned hummus and guacamole, you can also make salsa, chop onions, veggies, etc for salads, recipes, salad dressing and a lot more.

I'm in love!

Christmas Menu

2008-12-21T07:57:00.002-06:00

Appetizers:
Hot Crab Dip with crackers
Stuffed Mushrooms
Shrimp with homemade cocktail sauce
Cheese and Crackers

Dinner:
Honey Baked Ham
Funeral Potatoes
Green beans
Zucchini Parmesan
Croissants

Dessert:
Dutch Apple Pie
(it's to die for!)

Precious

2008-12-17T21:26:00.001-06:00

Isn't he too much? Our buddy after another day at camp. He loves it there!

My Elf gear

2008-12-16T16:43:00.003-06:00

I had other plans for tonight, but due to a scheduling mix up with the organization, I'm free tonight and have rescheduled the event for another evening.

I guess it works out because I have a nice pot roast I'm making for dinner.

My Christmas gear is helping me get into the holiday spirit....

I love toe socks. I know they freak some people out, but they keep me so toasty and warm!

In the pic, I'm wearing jeans and my half apron, which was my outstanding purchase this weekend. I already have 2 other aprons (which desperately need a good washing) but I saw this half apron and really wanted it. I rarely wear a full apron properly. I usually fold it in half and tie it around my waist b/c the "halter" top of most aprons really bothers me when I'm cooking. So, this super cute half apron is just what I need.

It's very Bree from DH.

Now, if I could only be a size -2 and have glowing red hair, I'd be set!

Welcome to our home!

2008-12-15T20:38:00.005-06:00

BooMama is gracious enough to host the 2008 Christmas Tour of Homes. For the tour of homes, you snap some photos of your home decorated for the holidays and then post them on your blog.

Welcome to our home!

What to do

2008-12-14T17:19:00.002-06:00

What do you do when Facebook suggests you add your college arch nemesis as a friend?

Do you laugh in Facebook's face?

Do you ignore the suggestion?

Or, do you just smile and remember that you are who you are because of everything you've encountered in life, both good and bad?

Question of the day

2008-12-12T15:48:00.002-06:00

From the Associated Press:

"New research adds fresh hope that a drug that strengthens bones might also fight breast cancer."

Question of the day:

What other substance strengthens bones and has been proven to fight breast cancer?

I'd put my substance (let's call it....."D") up against the drug mentioned in the AP article any day of the week for a number of reasons.

Let's compare "X" and "D."

1) The most common side effects of taking "X" is fatigue, nausea, vomiting, bone pain, headache, fever, shortness of breath, anemia, constipation, or lack of appetite. The most common side effects of taking "D" is healthier cells, reduction in new cancer incidence, weight loss, strong bones, etc.

2) The avg cost of receiving "X" is $9,600 per total treatment ($1,200 per infusion, infusions are typically given every three weeks for four to six months). For $9,600 you could purchase enough "D" to last you for 496 years. Or, you could purchase a 1 year supply of "D" for 496 people.

3) To receive "X" you must see a specialist and be given a prescription. To receive "D" you must log onto the internet and purchase capsules that contain optimal doses of 5,000 IU which will be delivered to your home by the mailman.

4) Treatment "X" is administered via IV infusion every three weeks for four to six months. Treatment "D" is a pill to be taken once/day at any time of the day, with or without food.

5) In the published materials for "X," it is recommended that in addition to receiving "X" you need to also take "D" on a daily basis.

Side Note: Dr. Davis, my cardiology friend, posted yet another entry about a patient with aortic valve disease that REVERSED.

A patient who previously had a leaky heart valve no longer has a leaky heart valve.

When the patient had a leaky heart valve, the patient was placed on 4,000-8,000 IU of our aforementioned mysterious substance I'm still referring to as "D." An echocardiogram many months later indicated NO leakage from the heart valve. None.

This doctor has several patients that previously had leaky heart valves and no longer do. Although the good doctor doesn't "want to extrapolate too far from the experience of one person," he's seen this more and more over the last year.

My grandma on my dad's side had aortic valve disease and ended up receiving a pig's valve as a replacement to her own damaged valve. We used to joke with her and snort like a pig when we walked by her (she thought it was hilarious...well, only the times where her hearing actually picked up on the fact that we were snorting and not passing gas, which she often thought we were doing when we made those noises).

So, hopefully I've answered the question of the day. Now, my work is done and I must wrap gifts.

I need...

2008-12-10T19:39:00.002-06:00

I'm totally ganking this idea from Connie, who admittedly gangked it from Julie.

They googled "Connie needs" and "Julie needs" and found a list of all kinds of things they apparently need.

I did this and according to Google, here's what Jessica needs:

Jessica needs coffee. Each and every morning like clockwork.

Jessica needs to stop dressing like a slut. Hey! To each his own. This surprised me because I cover up (mostly because there are laws protecting citizens from such sights as me dressing in relatively little clothing).

Jessica needs a bigger Al-bra. WTH is an Al-bra? And, does this in any way relate to the fact that I need to stop dressing like a slut?

Jessica needs your help. Um, probably not. Unless the help you offer is in the form of a daily full body massage for the rest of my life. Then yes, I need your help!

Jessica needs to put some clothes on. Holy crap kids! I get the message. Calm down.

Connie also Googled what she wants, so here we go...

Jessica wants to get rough. No comment.

Jessica wants one night stands to experiment with sex. I'm starting to think of other names I like more than Jessica.....

Jessica wants six kids. Well, clearly if I want one night stands, then it's a real possibility that I'll want six kids. Good grief this is getting rough. Oh wait, apparently I want it rough.

Jessica wants to play the leading man in a movie. Even if I wanted to, I can't because apparently I dress too slutty.

Well, wasn't that a fun trip down Google lane?

What I hoped would be a light hearted internet exercised quickly turned into a quest for self-preservation.

I wonder what Hubs wants....

Craig wants to go nude in the first Bond film......

Oh Lord.

RIP Rascal

2008-12-08T23:00:00.003-06:00

Today our family cat left his earthly life and is resting peacefully in Kitty heaven.

It was rather unexpected. On Thanksgiving, we were over at my parents house and Rascal did not look good. He was very thin and was moving slowly. A trip to the vet revealed he was in acute renal (kidney) failure. Poor little guy.

No idea why or how.

He spent several days at the vet, receiving fluids in hopes of decreasing his insanely elevated blood levels. His blood work never returned to normal and we knew he was in pain.

I'm going to miss the little guy. So is Shea. She's going to be a mess without her male friend around to keep her company.

RIP buddy. We love you!

Long day

2008-12-07T15:54:00.001-06:00

You know its been a long day when you've visited 5 different states and heard the flight attendants describe what happens in the event of a water emergency 3 times all before 6PM.

When we left this morning, it was 55 degrees. When we land in STL, it'll be 28 degrees.

I'm ready to put on my jammies and crawl into bed with the Hubs.

What I'll miss

2008-12-07T07:48:00.001-06:00

We fly home to St Louis today. Although I'm looking forward to being home again, there are a few things I'll miss about this trip:

1) Our Soldier - He's grown up so much and I love seeing the man he's turning into.

2) The laughs - I laughed a lot during our trip. Several times, I laughed til I cried. (And sometimes I just cried!) I hope our comic relief will help ease Davids reintegration

3) The people here - they're so dang friendly!!

4) The heated seats in our rental car.

5) The total lack of a sense of direction my family has (which provided much of the aforementioned comedy)

Welcome Home

2008-12-06T20:28:00.001-06:00

I'm over here tonight

2008-12-04T18:07:00.001-06:00

My brother returns from Iraq tonight. I'm live blogging over at our family blog tonight www.thebigmacs.blogspot.com

Keep up with our joyful (and tearful) reunion there!

Nuh huh

2008-12-04T06:21:00.001-06:00

Some guy brought a BOX of white castles on our 6am flight.

Thanks dude. Now the whole damn plane smells like a$$.

Brutal.

Soldier is en route

2008-12-04T06:00:00.001-06:00

Just got a text message from David that said:

"Freedom One has landed in Germany!"

They should be leaving there soon (just stopped to refuel) and then head home to join us in the good ol' U S of A!!

On behalf of Soldier......"Adios Iraq!"

Maxed out

2008-12-04T05:48:00.001-06:00

Cooper after a day at doggy day camp. He was beat! Isn't he the cutest?

Glasses

2008-12-02T17:21:00.001-06:00

My new specs!

Not the best pic since I took it using my phone, but you get an idea. I love them!!

And I'm wearing them to work tomorrow :)

To Do

2008-11-30T09:01:00.005-06:00

I love this time of year for several reasons....the atmosphere of giving and focus on others, family time, Christmas decorations...I could go on and on.

I think I particularly like this time of year because it feeds my "to do" list compulsion. The Holiday season is ripe with opportunities to list things.

I keep them organized in my daily planner (remember that I made the switch back to a paper based planner recently)

A few lists I have right now include:

1) Items to pick up when I brave Garden Ridge later today
2) Christmas Eve dinner menu
3) Christmas Eve dinner grocery list (see that- a list item that generated another list...love those)
4) Christmas Eve timeline and reminders
5) "To do" between now and Christmas

Occasionally, someone challenges my listing tendencies, suggesting that I can't be as productive because I spend too much time making my lists. I don't really argue with their point because:

1) they're wrong (as evidenced by the amount I regularly get accomplished)
2) arguing with them takes time away from:

a) being productive
b) time I could be spending updating a list!

I realize my listing lifestyle isn't everyone's cup of tea and I'm OK with that. To each his own, right? Now, time to put some of those lists into action.

P.S. I got new glasses yesterday and I'm in love with them! Hubs wasn't real hip on them at first, but numerous times throughout the day, he would mention how much he really likes them. I hope to post a pic or two later.

It's like this

2008-11-29T22:04:00.003-06:00

Christmas lights are like pantyhose.

We obviously have the technology to make them last longer, but in some twisted attempt to keep me frustrated and spending money, companies make inferior products so I'm forced to purchase their products more frequently.

Bastards.

Our Christmas Cards

2008-11-29T22:01:00.003-06:00

I'm so excited about our annual Christmas card for this year.

I really liked last years card, so I was nervous about being able to make another one as memorable. But, thanks to some quick thinking by Hubs, we have a totally cute and memorable card.

I can't wait to mail them out. Hopefully, you're on the list :)

He's left his camp!

2008-11-28T17:06:00.003-06:00

Soldier has left his camp in Iraq!!!!

He's currently in Baghdad where he'll stay for a few days and then they'll catch a flight to Kuwait. From Kuwait, they'll fly the 16 hour route to Laguardia Airport in New York. From there, they'll catch another flight to Georgia.

If all goes as planned, they'll arrive in Georgia and we'll have their welcome home ceremony on Thursday night.

Pray for safe travels and a speedy trip HOME!

Please....

2008-11-20T21:41:00.001-06:00

Cooper sitting politely outisde in the freezing cold waiting for me to let him in.....its FREEZING outside tonight!

Happy Veteran's Day

2008-11-11T10:08:00.005-06:00

Their sacrifices are great. Their impact is greater.

To my father (Air Force), my brother (Army), my Uncle (Navy), my grandfather (Army Air Corp), my grandmother (Navy), my father-in-love (Navy), and Hubs grandfather (Army)- a special thank you!

Updated: If you'd like to personally thank a Veteran, shoot me an email and I'll send you my brothers email address. He's currently stationed in Iraq and is set to return in less than a month! He works 12 hours days, hasn't seen a true weekend since deploying, and he misses his wife terribly. A thankful email could be just what he needs to help him through these next few weeks until he can return to American soil.

Relaxing Sunday afternoon

2008-11-09T14:13:00.002-06:00

Every day should be like Sunday. Sunday is the easiest day for me to balance work and play.

Hubs and I got some shopping done this morning- I'm already stocking up on food items we'll need for the Holidays (mostly baking necessities). I've been scouring the internet for some new holiday goodies recipes. I plan on making some of the usual (peanut butter kisses, cherry winks, and magic cookie bars), but I'm also interested in finding one or two new keepers. If you have any suggestions, send 'em my way!

We've been doing laundry while watching the Rams get ripped up and down by the Jets.

Earlier we sliced apples for the two dutch apple pies we'll enjoy for dessert tonight. The family is coming over to celebrate my mom's birthday. I'm making white bean chicken chili and cornbread. Yummmmmmmm....

Soldier is coming home!

2008-11-08T10:01:00.003-06:00

He should land on US soil sometime during the first few days of December!

We cannot wait for him to be home!!

Phi Mus Beware

2008-11-08T09:15:00.002-06:00

Phi Mus: Cover your eyes

Everyone else: Smile at Coopers cuteness as he bonds with his new BFF that I pulled out of the storage room this morning:

This is a lion that my Big Sister, Erin, gave me. Cooper thanks Erin with all of his heart- he loves his new BFF! We've affectionately renamed him, "Teddy."

It's what I do

2008-10-26T08:57:00.004-05:00

A few things I'm working on:

1) Christmas Planning- it's coming along. I'm not as far along as I'd like to be, but I'm getting there. My primary goal at this point is to focus on the annual Christmas Card. I'm wondering what upcoming events we could take a picture at to use for the card. I'm pretty much done updating my address list. Throughout the year, I keep all of the "we've moved" emails in a folder in Outlook and as we approach the holidays, I match those emails against my Excel spreadsheet that has a tab for our Christmas List. It's actually the list we used for our wedding invites back in 2004 and each year I copy the spreadsheet into a new tab and update it. It's fun seeing how the list has evolved over the years. Nearly everyone from our wedding list is still on the Christmas Card list- but the Christmas list is much bigger than our wedding list. We've added names of friends we've made over the years (and, friends we've reconnected with...mainly Zein!)

2) Home Inventory. I've been wanting to do this for a while now and just this morning downloaded free software to inventory our household goods. Its software that you use to store information that would be extremely valuable if anything were to happen to your home (break in, fire, flood, tornado, etc). My goal is to inventory one room every few weeks. I photograph several angles of the room and then inventory the large or hard to replace items (electronics, pictures, etc). I don't worry about inventorying the little things (knickknacks and such). I inventoried most of the living room today. I just need to find receipts for the furniture and the big screen TV so I can scan those into the program.

3) Get-Rid. This time of year is perfecting for purging and getting rid of excess in the home. Hubs and I have clothing that we need to part with; No matter how delusional we are in thinking we can ever fit into them again, reality is, the clothing needs to go. And fast.

Those are what keep me busy right now. Of course, we're all preparing for the arrival of Jennie and Ben's little one who is scheduled to bless us sometime in the next 4 weeks. They had another baby shower last night that Ben's family hosted. My favorite part of the evening was sitting outside in the cold enjoying the fire pit and catching up with Ben's sisters. They're a great family.

Time to get the day started in the usual Sunday fashion- Sunday ads from the paper and a glass of milk.

Oh yea...

2008-10-19T17:48:00.002-05:00

Yesterday, while driving over to STL to babysit Searcy, Hubs spent the entire car ride telling me how he was going to disfigure me so that Searcy would be scared of me and spend a majority of the night with him and not me.

And, on my birthday, he told me an outfit I was wearing made me look like a used car salesman.

See, everyone thinks he's this great guy that sends me flowers all of the time and thinks of nice ways of surprising me (like, getting dinner reservations for The Mansion), but thats all a show. He's really just your typical "you-look-like-a-used-car-salesman" man.

The Pregnant One

2008-10-18T14:14:00.004-05:00

Here are some pics of Jennie and Ben's Open House. She's due in 31 days!

I regress

2008-10-18T13:27:00.005-05:00

From Dictionary.com:

Regress: –verb (used without object)
1. to move backward; go back.
2. to revert to an earlier or less advanced state or form.

Thats me. Here's why:

I went back to using a paper organizer/calendar.

In college, I used a student planner religiously. It accompanied me everywhere. As an involved college student, I often had numerous meetings to attend after class, so to help keep myself organized, I used a planner. But not just any planner, I needed the Student kind- the ones that list the entire month over two pages, and then lay out each week of that month over the next few pages. I needed to see the entire month-at-a-glance as well as have enough space to write a good amount of information down on each day. I LOVED the organizers I had in college. I loved them so much, I kept them. They're in my basement in the single box that houses my college memories.

After college, life slowed down considerably when I started working; therefore, the need to keep a calendar dwindled and I eventually gave it up. In 2005 when I became the Practice Administrator at my clinic, I found myself needing to regain that balance which an organizer provides, but it was 2005, so a paper organizer wouldn't do. I needed a handheld device. Hence, I purchased my first all-in-one and have had once ever since. I really like it, but I find it very difficult to get that "at-a-glance" view of my week/month that comes with using a paper organizer.

Although I also have a paper calendar on our fridge, I needed a portable one so I could schedule things on the fly.

During our trip to FL recently, I found the perfect calendar at the bookstore, so I used my contingency money to buy it. I also have colored pens I use to organize the events that fill the pages of the calendar:

Life has become easier to plan with the help of my Time.Mine calendar. Twice a week, I sync it with the calendar on the frige.

Obviously, I still have my handheld (it's also my cell phone), but I don't put my social events in that anymore. Its much, much easier to keep track of life with the paper organizer.

But please don't tell my former boss. I poked fun at him mercilessly for keeping a paper organizer as long as he did. Guess I learned a thing or two from him afterall...

FaceSpace

2008-10-18T12:35:00.004-05:00

Although I consider myself technologically savvy, I think I've missed the boat on both Facebook and MySpace.

I'm going to admit, I have NO Idea what I'm doing when I log onto either of those sites.

On Facebook, I can really only update my status. I frequently get requests to add applications that do a variety of things, but I always freak out when I click-click-click and ultimately end up at some screen that asks me to fork over my first born just to be able to add that application to my account. Unsure what one final click would do, I always abort the mission and never end up installing the fancy schmany "apps" as they're called.

I started out on MySpace and kinda kept up with that. Then, people asked why I wasn't on Facebook to which I replied, "because I'm not in college and don't have a student email address....DUH!" Well, as it turns out, I guess Facebook became non-student oriented a long time ago and I just never got the memo. So, I joined.

Now, rarely a day goes by when I don't hear the phrase, "did you see on Facebook where...."

Anyways, all of this just to say that I received a million and one text messages yesterday because people sent me Happy Birthday messages on FB but I have NO IDEA how they knew it was my birthday! I was soooo pleasantly surprised to receive all of the texts, but I feel really guilty because I have no idea how to return the favor.

I know my birthday is listed on my profile, but did people go to my profile and happen to see it was my BD? Hubs said they probably have an application that reminds them of their friends Birthdays.

(Rewind: A few nights ago, I logged in to see if Debbie had delivered her baby yet, I noticed that Ryan had updated his status using his cell phone...and, well anything to do with a cell phone is fine by me, so I fumbled my way through setting up FB to text me messages that people leave for me on FB).

Needless to say, I've spent a majority of the last hour trying to figure out how I, too, can be alerted of friends birthdays. I mean, people I haven't talked to in 8+ years sent me well wishes for my birthday! I MUST be a good steward of life and return the favor on their special day. BUT HOW?!

I see an "event" application on my mainpage. Is that how people knew it was my birthday? Mine says it's activated, but I don't see any events.

I'm too organized to be so unorganized when it comes to Facebook. I need a FB tutorial STAT!

Class 67

2008-10-15T19:35:00.003-05:00

Need some inspiration in your life?

Read this first hand account from an attendee of the ceremony which graduated The First Class of the New Iraqi Air Force Flight School:

One of the kids nudged me when a [Distinguished Visitor] started getting passionate in his address, and was interrupted by a standing ovation:

“He is saying that for the first time in our history, we are not doing things for one man, but we are doing it for all the people of Iraq. He is saying the US has showed us how, and we must not forget when we thank God every day, we must also ask him to bless the US.”

I've read this post three times and get goosepimples each time.

Great Women's health article

2008-10-08T19:24:00.003-05:00

My Aunt, Shennie (well, it's really Sher, but she stole Jennie's left kidney from her, so I call her Shennie now) emailed me a fantastic article about Vitamin D that a friend emailed her.

Two things regarding this article:

1) I LOVE that Shennie received it from a friend- I'm telling ya'll, its contagious! I'm not kidding when I say I have my Vitamin D groupies that email me articles they find, or tell me about a news broadcast they heard in which the D hormone was discussed. There are people from college I only heard from once or twice a year, but now I routinely will receive an email from them with the usual, "here is yet another article I found in my med school journal discussing D....thought about you" email. It's great! Often times, what they're sending me is stuff that someone sent them. It's like the 6 degrees of Vitamin D. If you're not in the know, well, I just feel sorry for you (and your body and your family and your friends).

2) This article, which was written specifically to address womens health, is the one of the best articles I've read about D. The Ob/GYN Nurse Practitioner who authored the article did a wonderful job. You know an article that begins, "I just returned from a conference where everyone was discussing Vitamin D" is going to be a winner.

It is very well written, goes into great detail about how the D hormone works and why it's so important to your cells. And, unlike the dangerously uninformed/ill-informed medical professionals who are still only suggesting 1,000 IU/daily, this article cites the numerous studies that suggest our bodies need 5,000 IU/daily to MAINTAIN a good level. And, considering most of us are deficient in the vital hormone, we need more than 5,000 IU to get our storage levels to optimal levels. This often requires 10,000 IU/daily. The article also correctly promotes the use of D3 (cholecalciferol) over D2 (ergocalciferol, which is only 1/3 as effective as D3 and is the plant form of the hormone).

It also correctly points out that Vitamin D discriminates. Older people, dark skinned people and those with certain medical conditions are often severely, severely D deficient. It's the ideal way to level the playing field in medicine.

Its very encouraging to see an article of this caliber being published by a medical professional.

As my dad says, "the best, most compassionate way to reduce the cost of health care is to make Americans healthier." And thats exactly what we're doing here in our little town just outside of St. Louis. We're making Americans healthier and changing lives. It never gets old. And I love it.

TTYM?

2008-10-01T12:02:00.001-05:00

TTYM? What does that mean?

Paris, in her new show, My New BFF, said "TTYM" to one of the contestants as she was dismissing them from the contest.

But what does it mean?? I've never heard it before.

Sunday To-Do

2008-09-28T07:56:00.002-05:00

It's been quite a busy weekend and it's only 1/2 done. Yesterday we celebrated our 10th Anniversary at my company with a big picnic and I took some wonderful pictures! It helped that there were some super cute kiddos there to act as my photo subjects.

Next weekend the in-laws are visiting and we'll get to meet Ryder. We're really looking forward to that, but I have lots of work to do between now and then. I purchased some very large pictures to hang around the house and need to get those filled with photos- I'll post pics when they're done.

Jennie and Ben's Baby Open House is the following weekend, so I'm still going through my to-do list for that daily. Lots to do!

Today, I'm cleaning up around the house and decorating for fall, getting some laundry done, and hanging the pics.

I'll post some pics later. Pinky promise!

Illegal

2008-09-21T14:52:00.002-05:00

ILLEGAL. It should be illegal: non-HD broadcasts of NFL games, particularly Colts games.

I mean, whats the point?

Our Family is growing! (updated)

2008-09-21T10:38:00.003-05:00

Now introducing.....Lauren's dog (yet to be named):

Cooper is so excited to have a cousin who will undoubtedly have more energy than himself!

Welcome to the family!

U[date: Lauren decided upon Ryder as the name of our newest little addition. They'll be visiting in a few weeks, so I'll be sure to capture some great pics.

I'm in love

2008-09-16T12:12:00.001-05:00

My new favorite read: List Mama

Crystal, it's a match made in Heaven! You'll love it, too!

Vegas Funness

2008-09-14T19:29:00.003-05:00

We had a wonderful time in Vegas this weekend! A group of us from around the country met up in Sin City for a mini-vacay. Jim and his partner, Nathan, plus Katherine and her british beau, Rob, met up with me, Hubs and Lauren Friday night. After dropping off our bags and freshing up at our hotel (Trump Tower), we hit the strip and enjoyed dinner at the beautiful Venetian. We walked through several other hotels before settling down at a bar in the Bellagio where Lauren tried her hand (and heart) at blackjack. The evening ended with a marriage proposal from a Marine and we called it a night shortly after 2am.

Three hours later, I awoke and was ready to go again! But, not before enjoying a bath in the ENORMOUS bathroom! Jim took pictures of the room and promised he'd send them to me. I'll post those when I get 'em. Besides the high quality blender in the suite, I was most impressed by the television that was IN the mirror in the bathroom. It was sa-weet.

We met up for a fantastic lunch buffet with Shandra and Steve (who live in Vegas now where Shandra is a CSI with the LV Police Department!). We hit the slots at New York New York then stopped by the liquor store on our way back to our hotel. We took a nap then I played bartender for the group, whipping up Pina coladas and margaritas in the room. Later that night, we made our way to Paris where we enjoyed dinner Asia.

We watched several of the light shows outside the Bellagio befor heading into the beautiful casino for some drinks.

I got a total of 9 hours of sleep in two nights and my legs are very sore from all of the walking, but I have memories I'll remember forever! It was great seeing college friends and we celebrate Laurie's birthday in style.

The new camera took some wonderful pictures. I can't get over how vivid the colors are in some of the pics. Enjoy a few of my favorites:

So much has changed in the few years since we've been to Vegas. I'm going to admit, this is the first time we've stayed in a nice hotel on the strip. Trump Tower was absolutely gorgeous and we're very thankful Katherine and Jim invited us!

Ummmmmmmm

2008-09-12T08:05:00.002-05:00

Vegas---

Here we come!

I'm going to attempt to "live" blog from Vegas, but we'll see ;) It won't be on my #1 list of things to do while in Sin City.

Hopefully I'll get some great photos using my new camera, which I'm madly in love with (shhhh, don't tell Hubs).

It's a busy day and I've got to go pick up Lauren, so I'm off!

Dog Park = good times

2008-09-07T10:48:00.002-05:00

We had the best time at the dog park yesterday. A gal from work, Dawn, brought her dogs, Dagit and Zoe, and met us up there.

The beautiful weather combined with the action packed dogness made for some perfect photo opportunities with my new camera.

Here are a few of my favorite shots from the day:

Today we have a birthday party for Emma and then I have got to some work done around here. Jennie's shower invites must be mailed and I really need to plan out the week since we leave on Friday for Vegas!

My love

2008-09-04T18:07:00.004-05:00

lucky husband
lovely wife
had a wedding
built a life
chased some dreams
caught a few
here's to making
more come true

To my husband who provides for me emotionally, spiritually, physically and financially: thank you. The years of waiting and sacrifice are over. I love going to sleep next to you at night. I love having lunch with you in the park in front of the waterfall each week. I love that you're doing what you were meant to do. I love that you can have a horrible day at work, yet come home with a smile on your face. I love that you offer me a different perspective other than my own without upsetting me.

I absolutely love that you're low maintenance and content with life.

And finally, I love that you'd use the Power of Veto on me.

Happy 4th Anniversary my love!

Seattle Bling

2008-09-03T19:17:00.003-05:00

Here's my Seattle sparkly.

Helenite is a synthetic gemstone created from the ashes of Mount St. Helens when it erupted back in May 1980. When the volcano erupted, there was heavy, expensive machinery at the bottom of the mountain that was covered in lava. As the lava cooled, crews went in with blow torches to dig out the machinery and when the intense heat from the torches came into contact with the ashes from the volcano, these beautiful colors emerged, mostly greens and pinks.

I absolutely love this ring and can't wait to wear it out and about. I'm all about showing off my goods!

Dear Diary,

2008-09-03T17:48:00.002-05:00

Dear Diary, Has it really been that long since we've talked?

Life here continues to go forward at warp speed. Traveling here and there, long days at the office, the engaging political atmosphere we're enjoying, and my new camera are keeping me on my toes these days.

A few things to share:

1- I LOVE my new camera! I'm so thankful to have such wonderful family to support my entrepreneurial hobbies. It's a Canon Rebel XS and it takes vivid and sharp pictures. Although I'm still learning all of the features, I've read the users manual twice and feel like I'm getting the hang of things. Ken (our corporate accountant and President of the Chamber) offered to give me lessons on how to take great pictures. He's a semi-professional photographer and he's already taught me so much.

2- Enjoyed a very nice weekend in KY. Spent quality time with family, including our niece, Searcy, and Hubs grandparents. We stopped by Tim and Emily's house and met little John, who is a complete 50/50 mix of his mommy and daddy. I suggested to Tim that he carry around a tape recorder and record his words to JT. In the 10 minutes he was showing me around his house, I got the biggest smiles because of the funny/cute/sincere/hilarious comments that came out of Tim's mouth. Aimee and Johan surprised us by showing up and it was great seeing Erin and Seth, too. There should be an SNL skit fashioned after Tim and Johan. They are freaking HILARIOUS together. Emily described to me the walk Johan and Tim took with JT in the baby bjorn (?). Her comment, "I'm sure the neighbors were startled by the nice gay men and their mail order baby." Wish we could have stayed longer (especially since Aimee and Johan drove in from LEX to see us), but we had plans to stop by the cemetery and visit Nana. Luckily, A & J came over to Hubs parents house and enjoyed our evening bar-b-que with us.

3- I cannot wait for VEGAS next weekend! We're meeting Jim and his partner, Nathan, and Katherine and her beau down there for a weekend getaway. We also convinced Hubs 21 year old sister, Lauren, to join us. We have a suite at Trumps new hotel. Seriously, what else do I need in life?

4- I cannot wait for Florida after Vegas! Hoping the weather holds up, though...

5- My contingency calendar is going great. Besides the first day when I forfeited the $3 to hubs, I've earned my money each day. I now have $36 that I can spend on whatever I please...I'm eying (eyeing) several Premiere Jewelry pieces, such as the Mahogany necklace. But, I'm also considering buying the Flylady Digital timer for all of my 10 minute tidies (the timer fits on a lanyard...what else does one need in life? It's a TIMER that goes around your neck...as Alex would say, "it's ahhhh-mazing. Just amazing."

6- My favorite daily reads lately have been from GayPatriot.net. GayPatriotWest is blogging from the RNC and his insights fascinate me, mostly because you rarely hear/know/see any gay Republicans. His thoughts on issues (all issues, not just of sexuality) intrigue me. GPW said yesterday:

"It’s a lot easier being an openly gay person in the GOP than being an openly Republican gay person in West Hollywood."

7- Speaking of politics, Red Mind in a Blue State nailed it. Back in February, my friend Tony called Sarah Palin his "out of the box" choice for Republican VP. Her choice for VP has me totally engaged in politics right now. I had been in the back row, kinda of paying attention, but not really. I was learning just enough to take the test and pass; but now, I'm in the front row with my reading glasses on and my digital recorder on my desk. I'm ready for class.

Other than that, the usual day-to-day tasks consume me. I'm hosting my sisters baby shower in Oct, so I'm actively planning for that. I'm handmaking the invites (why do I do this to myself?) but have most of the planning already done, so its just a matter of staying on track.

The Preggers

2008-08-19T20:32:00.003-05:00

Here's a picture of my sister. I think she's about 6 months pregnant. I lose track!

Cute, isn't she?!

Story of my life

2008-08-18T20:21:00.003-05:00

It may not be evident by this picture, but this is how my first day of contingency calendaring went:

This is the ceremonial 'hand over' of the first $3.

Just to clarify, this is me handing money over to Hubs.

Thats right. My alarm went off at 5:30am and I only let it go off once. But, for whatever reason, I convinced myself that it was really Sunday and I had set my alarm on accident. So, I turned off the alarm, rolled over and woke up at 5:56am.

In order to get my $3, I have to get out of bed by 5:40am.

Despite the bad start to my day, I still completed everything else on the list (emptied the dishwasher and started a load of laundry before I left for work). I also packed my healthy snacks so I enjoyed a banana and some grapes at work. I'll do my 10-minute tidy before I hit the sack tonight.

Although I didn't earn my money, I am proud of myself for still doing the other items on my list.

Just got back from dinner and drinks with some friends, so I'm going to finish catching up on the other blogs and then head upstairs for the night.

I tried posting a picture of my pregnant sister, but Blogger is being stupid and keeps loading the same picture twice, so I'm giving up.

If you could...

2008-08-17T08:42:00.003-05:00

1. If you could inherit a comfortable home in any city in the world that you could use but not sell, where would you want it to be?

Chester, Connecticut- and I know EXACTLY which house it would be! Eileen and Johns place!
But, if practicality weren't an issue (like, I could teleport to the house anytime I want), then I'd probably pick a place very close to mountains AND a beach.

2. If you could be instantly fluent in one other language that you currently do not read or speak, which would it be?

Well, I speak Spanish (even better after I've had a few drinks) so i fI have to pick another language I'd say Italian.

3. If you were given an hour to spend an unlimited amount of money in any store in the world where would it be?

Bed, Bath and Beyond.

4. If you had to give your children to the care of someone famous, whom would you pick?

Jennifer Aniston.

5. If you could cast an actor now alive to play you in a new film, what kind of film would it be and whom would you choose?

It would be a sappy love movie like Sweet Home Alabama and Reese Witherspoon would play me:)

6. If you could have an elegant dinner alone with anyone presently alive, whether you know them or not, who would you want it to be?

Colin Powell

7. If you could resolve any single dispute, anywhere in the world what would you solve?

Resolve religious differences in the middle east.

8. If you were instantly able to play one musical instrument perfectly that you have never played before, what would it be?

The guitar. I have one and tried learning to play it, but its more difficult than I thought. Growing up, I played the cello and I thought those skills would transfer over easily and they didn't. At all!

Get a life, get a period

2008-08-16T10:34:00.002-05:00

A my friend Billy would say, "Get a life, get a period."

I watched Chris Collinsworth interview Kobe about how it feels to be playing for the United States. The questions Chris asked and his tone enraged me. What a moron. He should be ashamed of his questions and stick with what he knows- commentating during a game.

I'm glad Gateway Pundit has the transcript because I wanted to post about it, but didn't write down exactly what Collinsworth said.

Collinsworth: Tell the story when you first got your USA uniform.

Kobe: Well I had goosebumps and I actually just looked at it for awhile. I just held it there and I laid it across my bed and I just stared at it for a few minutes; just because as a kid growing up this is the ultimate, ultimate in basketball.

Collinsworth: Where does the patriotism come from inside of you? Historically, what is it?

Kobe: Well, you know it’s just our country, it’s... we believe is the greatest country in the world. It has given us so many great opportunities, and it’s just a sense of pride that you have; that you say "You know what? Our country is the best!"

Collinsworth: Is that a ‘cool’ thing to say, in this day and age? That you love your country, and that you’re fighting for the red, white and blue? It seems sort of like a day gone by(?)

Kobe: No, it’s a cool thing for me to say. I feel great about it, and I’m not ashamed to say it. I mean, this is a tremendous honor.

Our country is in a world of hurt with more and more visible people (entertainers, commentators, "news" anchors) spewing this line of thinking- questioning the greatness of our country and implying through his verbiage and tone that it's not cool to support a country that has given us so much.

Chris Collinsworth can suck it.

It's come to this

2008-08-16T07:55:00.000-05:00

I'm a very organized person, but for whatever reason, I'm having trouble getting a few things done around here. I think it has more to do with a lack of motivation than anything else.

During lunch yesterday, I mentioned this to Hubs and he said, "when I have a client that struggles with that similar problem, I suggest they make a contingency calendar."

(Side note: I am not at all offended when Hubs begins a sentence with "I tell my clients..." People pay hundreds of dollars an hour to hear a therapist say things I get to hear for no charge. Plus, Hubs trained for 6 years to learn what motivates people to initiate change in their lives, so I'm happy when he's willing to share those insights with me)

Contingency calendar? He suggests that I make a small list of things that challenge me on a daily basis (getting up the FIRST time the alarm goes off and be out of bed by 5:40am, walk Doopers, and perform one 10 minute tidy). Then, give myself a predetermined reward if I complete the list for the day.

Here's the thing- psychologists REALLY do this stuff in their own lives. A good friend of ours from Omaha who went through Internship with Hubs (and is also married to a psychologist) had a hand drawn picture of a stereo speaker hanging on their wall in the kitchen. Next to the picture was a bar that was about 1/3 of the way colored in. I asked Hubs what the drawing was for- he went onto describe how they want to upgrade their stereo system and each time they did something around the house, they got to add money to their stereo system pot. When they added more money, they colored in the bar that gave them a visual of how close to their goal they were. Once the bar was totally colored in, they had enough money to upgrade their stereo system.

After talking about this with Hubs, I decided to set aside $3/day. If I complete the three things on my list, I get the $3 for me. If I don't complete the list, Hubs gets the $3. I decided that if I didn't complete the list and the money just sat around, I'd be less inclined to complete the tasks. However, if I knew the money would go to Hubs, that would provide extra motivation for me to stay on task :-)

So after work last night, I stopped by the bank and cashed a check to receive $100 worth of $1 bills. When I got home, I hung a cork board in our bedroom behind the door and tacked $3 to the board 14 times (to get me through 2 weeks). I also have two jars on the dresser- if I earn the money, I put the $3 for the day in my jar, otherwise, the money goes to hubs.

There are several things I've been wanting, but have been unable to purchase since we consider them luxury items (and, we're trying to be in the saving money mode)- a couple of Premiere Jewelry pieces, a new DSLR camera, etc. As I earn money, I should be able to save enough to buy these items.

Here's the board:

Oddly enough, when I grabbed my digital camera to take this picture, it didn't work. The lens opened, but the screen got stuck on "access." I played around with it for a few minutes, changed the battery, and it's just broken. So, now I'm without a camera. It sucks! I had to use my cell phone to take the picture of the board.

I wonder if this takes my new camera (that I've been wanting for months) out of the "luxury" category and moves it to the "necessary" category....

One thing I know for sure

2008-08-16T06:41:00.000-05:00

If I were an Olympic swimmer, I'd change my name to Park Tae-hwan, just like the Park Tae-hwan who's currently representing Korea in the Olympic games as a swimmer and won gold in the 400m freestyle and silver in the 200m freestyle.

Why do I want that name? Because when you say it out load, it sounds like "party on!"

Day in pictures

2008-08-10T20:21:00.000-05:00

St. Louis Zoo 2008

He's so cute

2008-08-09T20:01:00.000-05:00

This morning I came into the living room where Hubs was lounging on the couch watching SportsCenter. I sat down on the other couch with a magazine.

A few minutes later, I noticed that Hubs had changed the channel and was now watching Tom and Jerry. He'd laugh and snicker, then switch back to SportsCenter.

This continued for the next hour.

He's so cute!

I struggle

2008-08-05T07:50:00.001-05:00

Today is my day off. I got up about 7:30am and I'm struggling with what to do with my day.

There are several tasks I really need to get accomplished, which is technically why I take week days off anyway. I need to get things done so I don't spend my weekends running around like a chicken with my head cut off.

However, when I was in Seattle, I missed out on a weekend since I was at a work conference and for whatever reason, I've had difficulty getting back into the swing of things since then. Missing a weekend is like turning the clock back an hour every night for a couple of nights in a row. It's kicking my ass.

I am babysitting Owen for about an hour this afternoon and then I have a haircut, but between now and then, I'm debating between doing NOTHING and doing everything. I can't seem to find that happy medium. I need help! Too bad Hubs is at work; he's really good at helping me. Why else would I marry a therapist? :)

Boooo Blogger

2008-08-02T21:17:00.000-05:00

Overall, I'm glad I made the switch from Wordpress to Blogger.

The only problem I'm having is that my formatting isn't working. After I type a paragraph, I click "enter" in an attempt to create a new paragraph and skip a line between the two paragraphs, but when I save the post, the space between the two paragraphs disappears. Therefore, my paragraphs are running together, thus making the entries more difficult to read.

It's really bothering me, too.

Hubbs vs. Mary Kay

2008-08-02T19:59:00.000-05:00

Today I laughed so hard I cried.

We were sitting in the living room watching TV when the doorbell rang. Hubs always answers the door and this time was no exception. He opened the door and I could hear him speaking with a female. After a couple of seconds, he leaned back into the house and said, "uh, honey, why don't you come here?"

I made my way over to the door and spoke with the Mary Kay lady who was roaming the neighborhood handing out her business card (I had actually met her many years ago at a MK party my sister held at my moms house). I thanked her for coming by, but let her know I already have a MK consultant.

I closed the door and headed back towards the living room. Hubs greeted me at the entrance to the room and said, "well, that was awkward."

"Oh. Really? Whys that?"

"Well, I opened the door, the lady smiled at me and said, 'Hi. Is your mom home?'"

HAHAHAHAHAHA!

She asked my husband if his mom was home!!! I haven't laughed that hard in many, many years!

I immediately called his mother to relate the story. I knew she'd get a kick out of it!

Best Value in America

2008-08-02T08:17:00.000-05:00

I have found the best value in America. It costs $1. And only $1.

Not $1.03 or $1.07...just $1.

And it's PERFECT this time of year.

It's the Dollar Cone from my local Gators Frozen Custard. I'm addicted to them. If I go a day or two without getting one, I can't focus.

For my October birthday, I'm contemplating asking for a soft serve ice cream machine ;)

Weekend Recap

2008-07-27T18:42:00.000-05:00

Finishing up a nice weekend. We got a lot of things done; set up the TiVo "at Grandmas," got the towel ring hung in the new bathroom, hit the grocery store, visited Lisa and her new baby, Hannah, saw The Dark Knight (loved it!), and rented "21" (enjoyed it, too, although I fell asleep at the end, big shocker, I know).

As soon as my room is closer to being done, I'll post pictures. I plan on hanging several shelves that I'll use to display my collection of tacky picture frames from places I've visited.

This will be a busy week at work. I put together a Care Calendar for Lisa and her family (so people can bring them dinner!) and signed up to take them chicken enchiladas tomorrow night (I made them for us for tonight, so I cut extra veggies, chicken, cheese, etc so I'll just have to assemble them tomorrow during lunch). I also have several meetings and I purchased new reporting software, Crystal Reports, that will keep me very busy. There are few things more satisfying than data mining and coming up with good reports that show the quality care we provide at the clinic. As Alex would say, "it's amaaaaazing."

I've barely watched ANY television in several weeks. It's amazing how much I get done when I'm not sitting in front of the boob tube. It's also exhausting, though, to be going, going, going all of the time. I need to find that good balance :)

Timer just beeped...Dinner is served!

And she's back

2008-07-23T22:26:00.000-05:00

What a wonderful trip to Seattle. I tripped there for a work conference which was very good. I learned so much good information about our software program; I can't wait to get into the office tomorrow and get a few things going.

I'm very tired, though, so I'm not going to write much. Hopefully I'll have some time in the next few days to write a good post about the trip. I enjoyed fantastic food and even better company (Gene and Alex).

And, I came home with something sparkly :) It's BEAUTIFUL! I'll take a picture of it and show it off tomorrow. I really am too tired to do much more tonight. The only reason I'm still up is because Hubs is at the Cards game and I promised him I'd stay awake until he got home (he missed me too much :) ).

Seattle, Updated

2008-07-20T09:49:00.001-05:00

Gene email me a few more pics this morning from our Seattle ventures into the city last night. Enjoy!

I have no idea why Gene took this picture, but I thought it was funny after I saw it. Apparently I'm "taking in the city" in this pic.

Seattle

2008-07-19T22:58:00.000-05:00

Seattle. It's a beautiful city. The weather is perfect (high 70's) and the company is even better.

Jill and I attended pre-conference training classes today. We met up with Gene, my good friend from last year's conference.

Tonight we headed out into the city and walked about a gazillion blocks and ended up at Von's American Grill. There was a very large, professional banner hanging outside the entrance that read, "No Budweiser. We only serve American beer." Ouch.

Despite the fact that I couldn't get my beloved Bud Light, we popped in from dinner. I ordered a dirty martini, extra dirty. Yum. I started a trend, as both Jill and Gene ordered one, too.

I enjoyed the "St. Louis style" baby back ribs; Jill and Gene both had the prime rib.

During dinner, I got a phone call from Jim, a good college friend. He had a beer question for me and then I mentioned the phone call Hubs got recently from Katherine, another college friend, sorta inviting us on their Las Vegas trip in September. Hubs isn't sure if Katherine called to invite us or not, but Hubs decided during the conversation that it sounded fun, so we're kinda planning on going :)

I mentioned this to Jim and he was quite excited. Hopefully it all works out so we can join up with them in LV.

During dinner, we found out that there isn't a name for anyone that's from Seattle. Are they Seattlites? Seattelians? We asked the waiter, who is a life long Seattle resident, what they call themselves. His response, "awesome."

And there you have it.

Tomorrow is a day filled with more classes along with the Welcome Reception tomorrow evening. The actual conference starts Monday and ends Tuesday afternoon. We fly out Wed morning.

The two hour time difference is kicking my butt.

Hopefully, Seattle won't expose us to any inner city run-ins like we witnessed last year!

2008-07-18T22:49:00.000-05:00

Jill and I made it to Seattle safely. The second leg of the flight was sooo long. My bum got numb from sitting that long.

We made it to the hotel and we're starving. Seattle is 2 hours behind STL time, so although my body thinks it's almost 11pm, it's really on almost 9pm. We just ordered pizza and its on the way.

Then, I'm going to bed!

I'm in love

2008-07-18T13:17:00.001-05:00

Southwest now has these little charging stations between seats at the STL terminal. Genius!

Different perspective

2008-07-17T22:22:00.001-05:00

Want to read a very cool and unique perspective of a truly fascinating event in Iraq?

Check out Armed and Curious: Home of the Heavily Armed Tourist blog post from the other day.

To Cooper, with love

2008-07-16T06:51:00.000-05:00

On Sunday, we celebrated our Family Birthday. One year ago, we added Cooper to the fam, so to celebrate, we took him to the new dog park in town. I didn't know we had a dog park. In fact, the last time I took him to the city park, there were "no pets" signs galore. Bummed me out.

A few weeks ago, we received the quarterly newsletter that the City publishes and one of the articles talked about the new dog park that a boy scout created at the already existing Rock Springs Park.

Needless to say, we had a blast. Cooper enjoyed his time running around with the 3-4 other dogs that were there (some of which I think he knew from Camp Bow Wow). We're not very good parents, though. We forgot to bring toy for him to fetch. Seriously, who does that? Takes their pooch to the doggy park and doesn't bring him anything to fetch? We brought him treats and water, but no toy. Luckily, he didn't need one. He just ran around the large fenced in area.

I had some fun with Picasa, too!

A boy and his dog.

Can you believe this was our baby a year ago?

Blog Therapy

2008-07-15T08:55:00.000-05:00

My blog (LM) needs a therapist. It's true, she told me so.

LM recently began wondering if she was meant to be a Blogger blog and not a Wordpress blog. She feels like she's a Blogger mind trapped in a Wordpress body and she needs help.

She thinks that if she were a Blogger blog that I would dress her up more. Wordpress is nice, but it's sooooooo much work, especially for me since I'm a self-taught web designer and I still don't understand most of what I've accomplished.

Maybe if LM was a Blogger blog, she would get a facelift every few months like she wants.

But, I don't necessarily want to make the switch if I can't import LMs previous posts. We have a long history together and I can't just toss that history aside.

And, what if I switch her over and then I can't do as much designing with Blogger as I thought??

Anyone know a good blog therapist? LM needs help. Badly.