HAPPY FAT TUESDAY

(~)(~) Give me some beads - see those are my boobies, LOL.

I did not walk last night. I am not even going to say I will tonight, because I know I won't. But someday I will, lol.

So I called to schedule the scan. My SIL schedules these and I was hoping to get her - was going to ask for her if I didn't. And guess what? I got her by just calling in. She set me up. I go in on Thursday to get my radiation shot/drink/candy bar for the next day's scan - have to be glowing for 24 hours.

I am not scared. Everything will work out. Then on the 18th I go and give platelets and get on the Bone Marrow Registry. Everyone able should do this. I hope I get called (you only get called if you are a match).

I am very happy today. Tired, but happy. Seeing my Sweetie for lunch is always a treat.

Today's lunch was at our newly found favorite hamburger place. Last day of meat, you know. Sweetie is very positive about this lent. I know we can do it. We are not giving up sugar, chocolate, or diet coke - so this will be a breeze. Honestly, I am very excited. I think the temporary meat-less lifestyle will help my weight loss. It will definitely make us think before we eat.

Don't Dawdle in the Drive Through

I just came from the bank The person in the car in front of me took FOREVER. They had to have been there 10 minutes before they even sent in their items. I am sorry, if you don't have the forms - GO INSIDE. If you don't have them filled out - GO INSIDE.

The good news is that I received my first paycheck - woo hoo. Actually two. This is a huge lifesaver - waiting for a month for a paycheck SUCKS.

So as everyone knows, we are giving up meat starting the 1st. SIL's b-day is the 2nd, not sure what we are doing - but the lack of meat should not be a problem.

But I am also adding new habits for lent. I want to eat healthy with the no meat thing - too easy to eat mac&cheese and icecream because that doesn't have meat.

Also I want to finally complete the BabySteps for Flylady. I attempted to start it in December. I want to get organized. Not to mention that I don't see us moving before the next baby. This means we need to consolidate our goodies. Don't get me wrong, we are not trying for another year, but it is good to be prepared.

And then there is CPA. OK maybe I do like to keep a little busy, lol. I am hoping to test mid April to end of May with one or two sections.

So for Lent my goals are:
1) CPA study
2) Follow flylady
3) no meat
4) eat healthy
5) exercise

And I finally feel good enough to walk tonight. WOO HOO. One thing I love about getting sick is how great feeling good feels. I can breathe and I am only tired today because of a little Bug who wanted to play at 4.

I am struggling with a little bit of depression today. Nothing serious. I am still smiling - just feel it in my brain. I am hoping the walk tonight will help. That and snuggling my Sweetie and Bug. They make all the badness go away.

So I have the option of not doing the catscan yet and waiting 4 weeks to retest my thyroid. I am torn on this one. I need to talk to Sweetie. Part of me wants to wait, truly thinking it was a invalid test. But the other part of me says to get it overwith and we will have some answers, hopefully, in 4 weeks instead of simply starting the process.

60 POUNDS

Just a quick note to say that I reached my 60 lb mark. Look at my new star, so pretty.

I am going to call the docotor about retesting my thyroid. Because I am losing, just very slowly.

And I am scared to death. And if it is due to a mistake in the testing, I don't want to go through all the trouble of the scan for nothing.

Here's to 3 more until considered a healthy weight.

Clear Snot

I know you all are dying to know - my snot is clear once again. Yay antibiotics.

The weekend is coming to a close. I currently sit holding a sleeping baby while watching Grey's Anatomy. Sweetie is at work, so it is just us girls.

I am finally feeling better and am loving it.

I will get my paper to schedule the scan of my thyroid.

So Wednesday starts no-meat until Easter. Which brings me to a funny story. Sweetie and I decided with this no-meat thing that we will have dairy and eggs but no fish.

I had some potato soup last week. It was good. I told Sweetie - that was good, different that I expected, I thought it would be like clam chowder without the clams.

So he says - wait for it.

"We can have clams, right?"

"No, unless we are eating fish"

"What about muscles?"

Of course I can't say anything. I had a similar moment. We were looking at the chili - looking for vegetarian chili.

I said "We can have the chili without beans"

HAHAHAHA

Everyone has moments like this, right??

SPF

Not too late!!! It is still Friday.

Kristine told us to take pictures of our nightstand, lamp, and good book.

I was snuggling this all evening. I am still not feeling great so I accepted when Bug "asked" to cuddle.


Which brings me to my nightstand:
Sweetie does not want me to post this. You will find a condom in the drawer. As TheKeptWoman reminded everyone, we need to take candid pictures of our drawers and not tidy up first. Now I am a grown woman approaching 30, a mother, and have been with my Sweetie for almost 14 years. People know that we get it on. We have a little person to prove it. My thinking is that this shows the world what responsible parents we are to insure that we do not become pregnant before we are ready (I also use the NuvaRing, since we are getting so personal).

Let's see what else is in the drawer - KY warming lotion (not that great), Sweetie's belt, photos from HS, Sunglass case, gel pens for journaling, photos of me at my highest weight (to remind me), Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Book, blank notecards, a discman, and a check book. Pretty random - but there it is, in all its glory.

Now the Lamp:
This was my Grandmother's. I love the light it puts out. Things just feel right when this is the only light on in a room.

And Books: We have many books, 4+ bookcases (could probably fill a 5th).
This is one of my favorite two shelves. You will find Lord of the Rings. Sweetie and I each bought this EXACT set for each other Christmas 1999. Too funny. We also have Harry Potter and my Harry Potter glasses, Series of unfortunate events (Sweetie reads these to me along with Chronicles of Narnia), Artemis Foul, Some design books, Bug's baby book, a very old Winnie the Pooh, and Summer Sisters (an all time favorite for me).

And here is another one I highly recommend if you are looking for a fun light read:

Oh and I have to add this one - Here is Bug with Sweetie's handy dandy Flip Fold, To help fold anything.

Thank you for looking at my "stuff" let me know if you played.

Thyroid

I spoke too soon.

I have been off my meds since my b-day (mid November). Since I was taken off, I thought I was cured. I gave my blood yesterday and thought this would confirm me no longer needing Synthroid.

I spoke too soon.

I got a call from the nurse saying they have my results.

Wow that was fast.

Fast is never good.

My Thyroid did not register on the test. Meaning my thyroid is not working. At least it appears that way. Explains why my weight loss has slowed. Don't look at the chocolate cake I am eating.

The next step? I need to get a cat scan done of my thyroid, For those of you who don't know, the thyroid is on the front of your neck. I am not looking forward to it.

The best part is that I did not get a chance to get to the Dr's office before they closed to get the form to schedule this darn thing.

I hate this.

So I ate today - way too much. We are not talking about it. Better next week.

I don't do well with stress.

I hope I feel up for a walk tomorrow, I need it.

So Sweetie and I were emailing, trying to decide where to eat. I e-mail Pok-e-Joes and I get a call. I go through my greeting and I hear "sometimes you scare me". Sweetie sounded dead serious. I was thinking that it wasn't cool for him to change his "everything is fine with your thyroid" tune, even if he was worried.

After I ask why, he explains that just as he was calling me to suggest Pokejoes, he got the email where I suggested it. We were thinking it at the same time - how sweet.

OK so he thought it was creepy too, but that is my man.
Lunch did help. I am not going to worry - right. OK I am going to try not to worry.

You Never Know

I went to the Dr this morning. I have GREAT blood pressure (thank you daddy) and NO fever. I have a sinus infection. I asked what to do about my immune system. She told me the standard, eat right, exercise, and get plenty of sleep. yadda yadda yadda. I gave my blood for thyroid testing. Hope I get good results.

Today a co-worker - my favorite actually - found out that one of her good friend's husband died last night. He was MAYBE 30. She woke up to find him dead. They think it was a heart attack. A (the Coworker) said that he was stressed a lot. This is horrible. I totally teared up when she told me. I cannot imagine waking up to find your husband dead. Esp that young.

I am so happy that while I was at the doctor I made an appointment for Sweetie. You see he has not been to the doctor for a physical since like 1997. I scheduled a head to toe physical - whatever that means for someone 30.

I am also so happy that we are in lower stress jobs. Well, Sweetie will be working insane hours today because of a project he volunteered for, but he is excited about it and I will take him some dinner tonight. Sweetie told me last night that I seem much less stressed with my new job. He also thinks I should try for two sections for the CPA - we shall see.

I am so tired. I think Bug and I will hit the hay early tonight. After dropping off food and prescriptions, of course.

Working out - not happening until I get on my antibiotics. The meds I got for my nose are helping but I do not want to over do it only to end up with bronchitis. I might have wait until next week. So what do you do when you are sick? Eat. Someone in my office who is supposed to be on South Beach phase one baked a yummy chocolate cake for the office. Yes, I had some. Combine that with last night's dinner with Best Friend, her husband, and Sam and you come up with no weight loss this week. Oh well. There is always next week.

I got permission from my boss to do Motive. WOO HOO. Who is doing it with me? Come on you know you want to. Of course this means that I need to get off my butt.

I better be feeling better for next Wednesday. I want to combine exercise and counting points with our no-meat lent.

I am also proud, Bug grabbed the waiter's ass last night at dinner - that's my girl.


I feel very lucky today. Remember, you never know. Make sure you hug and kiss the ones you love as much as possible. Or, if anything, call them and say you love them. Life is much too short.

YAYAYAYAYAYAYAY

Happy Birthday Sam!!!

And I get to see Sam and BestFriend tonight!!!

Life is good.

Sick of Sick

I am feeling a bit better, but nasty stuff is coming out of my head. I have an appointment at 8:20 in the morning. I know I have to give blood - time for thyroid test - they want to see if it really is fixed.

Last night I was not feeling well. I ate my meat soup - SOOOO GOOD. I had two "servings" and Sweetie had 4. Of course, I think the serving size was small. I only used 10 points, so I don't think that was bad. Then I gave Bug a bath and we got comfy on the couch. I did not work out. I thought about it, but it did not happen.

This morning I was going to walk, put my clothes and gear out even. However, it was VERY foggy this morning. Where I walk is not well lit so I did not want to take the chance. We shall see about tonight.

I have been so good the last two days with eating. Today has not been bad. However, someone brought in some of my favorite cookies. They remind me of DI - the last time I worked in an office this size. Sonnet would bring them in saying they were healthy. They are from Central Market and are organic. But honey, there ain't nothing healthy about them.

I have had two so far.

Two.

But I counted the points.

And I got the second one because my hot pocket was less than wonderful. I over cooked it. I ate it, mind you, but only because I had nothing else and no moola.

How do you spell moola?

The good thing is that I am looking forward to my afternoon snack, pears - yummy.

I have decided to sit for one section of the CPA in May instead of two. I refuse to give up my life. I can study during lunch and get the needed hours. My original goal was to pass all four sections for my 30th b-day. But in the job I am in, I have no rush. Perhaps my goal should be getting healthy and passing one. I know, that does sound better.

I need to give up the superwoman complex.

I want it all and right now.

Not possible.

I am human. And more importantly a mom.

So studying at lunch, testing in May, and finding out results mid June.

All the while, eating right, exercising, and enjoying my family.

Deal.

Happiness

More thoughts since last post. This time on the challenge is different. I say I have 15-20 to lose, but that is not an absolute. Once I lose 5, I will be considered a healthy weight.

I have said it before, I will say it again, I love my body. I like the way I look naked. I love what my body can do. While I would like to improve some on toning, and another size down wouldn't hurt anyone, after the next five pounds my goal is going to be being healthy. If I lose weight, then yay. If I don't, then my body doesn't want to weigh any less.

It feels so good to have this outlook. I think Darkdiva is right, being madly in love, and a corrected thyroid, melts the pounds off.

And Sweetie loves it ;-)

Time to make an announcement

First - great thoughts sent to BestFriend today - she is the most awesome.

Starting tonight, I will be back on my training for the Cap 10k - April 2.

Come on, you know you want to - 6.2 miles of happiness.

This week is also important of another "start". Yesterday marked the start of the Self Challenge. This 3 month challenge occurs every year at this time. I first joined this challenge in 1997. I was newly engaged and had been doing Weight Watchers for about a month. Actually last year was the only year that I did not join - due to Bug being in my belly. The catch? I have never finished the challenge. This year I am motivated. I am hoping this will help me lose the last 15-20 pounds.

The challenge will end just as I start half marathon training again. My half marathon training is 26 weeks. So I am scheduled out for 38 weeks, for walking at least.

Hmmmm what else is in 38 weeks? MY B-DAY!!!! The Motive Bison Stampede is on my b-day this year. WOO HOO. What a great way to celebrate 30 - walking 13.1 miles. I e-mailed my boss and asked if I can participate. I hope she says yes. I am going forward as if everything is ok. After all, another staff member ran the half on Sunday.

So if Sweetie wants to do something for my b-day, it will need to be the week before or after.

I want everyone who has any desire to walk/run this course to join me. So far I have HowieMaui, MIL, Sweetie, DarkDiva, and my walking partner from TNT. This is going to be fun. I want to work on my timing and contemplating a walk/run strategy.

** SIDE NOTE - my office is in the process of hiring someone new. This person should start on the 1st. SHE CURRENTLY WORKS AT SKIDS. And she worked there when I worked there. I wonder if I know her. WOW, small world. For those of you who don't know. SKIDS was a horrible place to work. Engineers were doing the accounting (no offense to either) and they were a "for profit" in what should have been non-profit business. That is the only job where I walked out. Oh I hope she was one of the good ones.

So if you are in the Austin area the weekend of Nov 12, please come and walk 13.1 miles with me. All fees related to the Motive Bison Stampede go to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society.

8 days remaining to eat meat - including today. I am making BBQ Brisket soup tonight. You can't get much more "meat" than that, lol.

It's damn cold

It is very cold here in Austin. It is never a good when the temp goes from 80 to 30 - only causes people to get sick.

I was still sick this weekend - SUCKS. I spent most of the day on Saturday napping and resting up for the Blog Blowout. Then my nose started running again, even with medicine, my cough made me sound like a baby seal, and my head felt like it was stuffed with cotton. I realized quickly that while being out on the town with a bunch of Blogging Bitches would be AWESOME, that I had to feel good for the next day's marathon cheer stations. Not to mention that if I sent the sick home with these women, they would ultimately kick my ass.

Then we went to take my mom home, who was hanging out with us, and my car did not stop. I don't mean to sound over dramatic, but I don't think I was supposed to go out last night. Plain and simple. MIL watched the Olympics with us last night and I was able to play with Bug. We were in bed before 10. That felt great.

The alarm came early this morning. No, I take that back, Mom's call came early this morning. Austin iced over a bit during the night - FUN. There was a 19 car pile up during the night and she wanted to make sure that the cheer stations were a go. The marathon was postponed by 30 minutes, but it went on as scheduled. And with the bad weather, we were needed even more as a lot of people would stay in bed - and I don't blame them.

If you participated today, I saw you. Well, I tried to see you. I was at the mile 8 cheer station. I held my sign high and screamed a lot. I did not think I would have a voice for mile 20. We saw everyone at mile 8 - the first Kenya type runners to the stragglers. The best part of the runners was when I would make contact with someone "you can do this" and they would smile back at me or give me a thumbs up. I tried to make eye contact with someone with each group.

The best part overall was when the walkers came in. Not the racewalkers, like I would like to be someday - who keep up with the runners, but the slow peeps. The overweight, non-athletes. The ones doing it step by step. Most of these only did the half, as I did when I was in the same position. The walkers are nice because you can read their names. There is nothing better than hearing "Come on Missy you can do it" from strangers. You can also talk more to the walkers. The walkers, the slow ones, are the ones who thanked us. You see when the race began our corner was PACKED. Families, friends, and general support filled the sidelines. However, by the time the walkers came, we were the only ones there, the 7 in my group - including Mom and me. I cranked it up. I screamed louder. My feet were killing me due to the cold, my thighs were aching. But I knew they needed us. The walkers who thanked us, they meant it. We even got a few cheers back at us.

After the last person came, we packed up and headed to mile 20. This is typically the "wall" from what I have been told. This was a fun cheering point. There was more stopping and hugging family. And the same thing happened, by the time the walkers came, we were the only ones there. We cheered them on. Mom and I bowed out and did not go to the finish. That would be one place where plenty of people were.

When I got home, 7 hours later, I felt like I would after a LSD with my training. I was sore, tired, and hungry. I grabbed a Bug and took a much needed nap.

My mom was such a trooper. She did not have to do this, and in her car because of mine not working. She stood in the cold beside me, making me proud. Everyone at our station loved her. Everyone does. We were cold, tired, and more tired. But we got to spend some good time together. WAY TO GO MOM!!!!

It was so worth it to be the one cheering on everyone. We saw old and young, heavy and thin. Amazing, really. I remember the 8 mile cheer station at Motive, my first half. It meant everything. I think that was really what made me want to work where I am. 2.5 years ago I started this whole process. My life, and so much of it, is different. That was a huge step for me. I took charge. While my thyroid kept me heavy - clinically obese actually, I completed 2 half marathons. My whole life changed from that kick-off party I attended in August 2003. I would have never guessed. I do not think that I would have been able to walk the distances that I did without Team in Training.

I was awesome to be able to cheer on the walkers all the while understanding what they were feeling. If you have an opportunity to partcipate in Team in Training - DO IT. It will not only change your life but helps find a cure for Blood Cancers.

And please please please keep Deb in your thoughts and prayers.

GO TEAM!!

Atmosphere and Rememberings

The office is a buzz due to getting ready for the marathon. I love it. While a cold front came in last night, I know the runners can handle it. It snowed the day before I did Motorola (what is now Freescale).

My half marathons brought me such pride. At Motive my Sweetie dropped me off, MIL met me on the course, and my Mom met me at the finish line. I remember the Team in Training staff cheering me on, and I remember my coach coming to find us when they took up the course too early. It was painful (lost a toenail). Bust importantly it was rewarding. After the event I went to a late lunch with Brother, SIL, and Mom at Texas Land and Cattle where Sweetie was working a double.

I need to write to my walking buddy.

Motorola was three months after Motive. I was in better shape, no lighter due to thyroid, but I was more confident. My mom and Sweetie took me to the starting line. I left my walking partners behind, I was determined. I had the best pace of my life and they still shut the course down early. Sweetie met me on the course and helped me walk the last few miles. Because I was walking so quickly I was not keeping up with my calorie intake or my water - so his help was appreciated. At the last station we saw, they were packing up. They were out of cups and I told them that I needed fluid, they gave me a full bottle of powerade. I made sure to give the powerade to Sweetie before running across the finish line. DarkDiva, her husband, her two girls, MIL, SIL, Niece, BestFriend, and her husband met me at the finish. Mom met me in the shoot, right after the finish. She hugged me. She was so proud.

It wouldn't be a marathon without her. My mom is coming with me to cheer on the runners/walkers. She is amazing. It will be cold and wet. It will be long. I get an extra day off for this, she does not. And she does not get Monday off like I do. But she said she would do it. She wants to help. She told me when this job came about that she would help with any volunteer opportunities possible.

I appreciate it.

I have been reading a blog. Deb's blog. She is making me think a lot about life and my job. Amazing what this internet does. It brings people together - their experiences. Mom and I are now looking into donating platelets.

Everyone able should give blood. It saves lives - simple as that.

Tonight is Brother's b-day celebration. He is now 37. How is that possible? Tomorrow is major cleaning day and baby proofing. The night is the Blog Blowout. I hope I feel up to it. Then Sunday is the Marathon. Talk about busy.

I need to fee better so that I can get back on track with my training. 6 weeks is better than none.

And why do I receive so many hang-ups????

Pretty in Pink

What do two wild and crazy women do when they have a night alone?

Sweetie is at work. He was able to have dinner with us, but had to go back in. Luckily, we have iChat so we can still spend time together thanks to the internet.

It is time to begin the molding process. It is time to introduce Bug to the finer things in life.

So we are watching "Pretty in Pink". I LOVE this movie. I know it is 80's cheesy, but that is what I love about it. This has to be in the top 5 of my all time favorites. But I still believe that Andie and Duckie should have ended up together. I am so glad that Jon Cryer (Duckie) is on "Two and a Half Men". He is too cute. And James Spader is on Boston Legal with a character not too far off from Steff. Personally, I think he is hot too.

Plus this movie has my dream car - a pink Karmann Ghia - of course my dream is a current interior and classic exterior - I don't do standard or non-power steering, lol.

And it has Gina Gershon - Sweetie loves her because of Bound.

"do I offend"

Photo Time

Grab some coffee, sit back, and enjoy the show.
This is me, Thomas, and Bug. My buddy.

This is the view from Thomas's mom's house - where we were on Saturday.


These are some of the best photos of the butterflies. They were everywhere. So beautiful.

This is Bug approving of the gifts for Grandma and Grammy. She looks tiny in this photo.

My little Diva.

Sweetie reading Bug's Valentine's gift to her.

My Tulips bloomed. My mom gave them to me for Valentine's day.

Sneeze Sneeze Sneeze

I started feeling yucky yesterday morning. Head stuffed, nose stuffed, and a runny nose. Yucky. I am tired. I told Sweetie that work makes me sick. I was doing good on my break. He did not agree. Most likely it is allergies. However, I am staying away from my pregnant co-worker, just in case.

So last night consisted of listening to the CD I gave Sweetie, Sweetie going out to buy diapers and food while Bug and I rested and watched Gilmore, watching the Olympics, giving Bug a bath, and going to sleep. Actually it was wonderful. Sweetie took very good care of his snotty girls (although Bug's snot seems to be from teething).

This job is great. Although it does not utilize my brain as I would like. But I keep reminding myself that I can use the amount of brain not used during the day and focus it on CPA review (starts Friday). I absolutely adore the time off, the hours, the laid back atmosphere, and the great cause. HowieMaui has a similar situation, not using full skills, and she advised me to make the job use my brain. So I shall.

Pictures? Yes, I uploaded them to the computer, feel asleep on the couch, and forgot about them until now. Tonight should be quiet so I can post pics.

One question though. Why do I receive so many hang ups here? If you call the wrong number and hear a friendly voice as well as a charity organization's name - please at least say "I am sorry, wrong number". Or even "wrong number". Something, anything. Please do not simply hang up.

Love Love Love

Valentines Day. This is an important day for Sweetie and I. Up until 1997 I felt that I could “take it or leave it” – it being V-day.

Then in 1997 Sweetie proposed. He said he would never do it on Valentines Day, as it is cheesy. However, he wanted to propose after a modern dance program he was in. He wanted it to be in front of hundreds of strangers proclaiming his love for me. This dance fell on Valentine’s day. He got up in front of everyone and spoke of how I am his senses. He asked me on stage and got on one knee. “Will you be my senses for the rest of my life?” I said yes.

Since then Valentines has not been as huge, who can top that. So we so something sweet and make sure to enjoy “us” time. Some years go without presents or with a movie or simply snuggling. Honestly if he proposed any other day, we would treat that day the same way.

Nine years now. Amazing. Even with the bad that we have gone through in the last 9 years, I would not change that answer. It was worth it for the good. He is my soulmate.

This morning I got Bug’s bottle and came back to bed, she snuggled me last night while Sweetie worked on my gift. Sweetie (who was up until 4) asked if I saw anything. I saw nothing. This is quite shocking. After Bug finished her bottle the three of us went into the living room. The living room was covered in three sizes of origami butterflies. All yellow and about 200 of these beauties. Bug got so excited at watching my reaction that it looked like she was taking credit.

Then Sweetie says “Are you going to take a picture?” Of course I am. I grab the camera. After a couple of photos, he asks “how many pictures do you have left?” I say “344…wait 344” I thought the camera was broken, I do not have that much memory. I realize what he did. How wonderful is that.

I had a HUGE fortune cookie covered in chocolate delivered to his work. He was very surprised. I also gave him a page of coupons. We have been doing a lot of stuff for me lately and I wanted him to get some priority event picking in. I hope he uses them soon. They are for gaming, movies, bedroom play, you know that kind of thing.

At lunch we delivered the valentines that I purchased for Bug to give to the Grandmas. Since they do not have a significant other to send flowers, Sweetie and I hand delivered them to their places of business. This caused much surprise and excitement. The only better thing would be if Bug helped, but she was in school, and lunch was not long enough to pick up and drop back off.

Just found out that I have to work Sunday morning at 6:00. I am helping my organization cheer for the Freescale Marathon. That is going to be a long day. Luckily I have Monday off, but I hop to get an additional day off as well. We shall see.

Tonight is Sweetie, Bug, and I hanging out. We are going to watch 1 or 2 movies, play a game, and eat some good food. My kind of v-day.

One more hour until I get to get my sweet sweet bug and see my Sweetie.

Love

I LOVE VALENTINES DAY.

That is all.

Everything you wanted to know about my weekend

Blogger is down so I shall compose this in Word. I am at work and sleepy. My boss is working closed door so I am left to my own devices.

I have no photos to show with this post. Instead of SPF catch ups I am going to post pictures of my weekend. With thsi post I am going to give you the low down, or is it the down low, of all the fun I had.

Thursday – had dinner with Thomas and his wife. It was great to see each other again after 10 years. Parking SUCKED because it does at Chuys, but it was worth it for the company.

Friday – Game night with HowieMaui, her husband, and HS friends. I had a blast. We left at 1 very tired. We played Apples to Apples. That is a fun game. Sweetie got a little annoyed because people were picking the funny answers instead of the most alike. But that is my Sweetie, secretly anal to the core.

Saturday - Kitties needed food so Sweetie got up early and took care of that. When he got back he decided to let Bug and I sleep. Isn’t he great? OK that isn’t the best part. When Bug woke up, he came in and got her and told me to keep sleeping. SO AWESOME. I woke up and ate breakfast – that he bought while he was out – and it was healthy. Then Bug showed signs of needing a nap. The solution? The family nap. We slept for over an hour. When we woke up Sweetie offered to watch Bug some more while I enjoyed a shower. The time slipped away and soon we were scurrying to get ready for Thomas’s party at his Mom’s house.

I am so glad we went. I had a great time. And while Sweetie looked bored at certain points he swears he had a good time too. Bug got to play with puppies and I got to chat, such a nice and relaxing day. The strangest part was that he went home yesterday. All the friends that I have reunited with – bitches, extreme bitches, or nice friends – have lived in Austin at the time of the reuniting. I kept thinking that we would be able to hang out again soon. But that is not the case. Soon is next year. I need to e-mail him and let him know how much I enjoyed being there. He is a friend that I really regret losing 10 years. However, we talked like no time passed. The last WBW really made me think of him and how happy I was that he googled Sweetie in order to find me.

Sunday – We went to church. It is time for Bug to go to the Nursery. She was talking and talking during the service – esp. the quiet portions.

Sweetie came up with what he wants us to give up for lent – meat. We are hoping to stay on track and not use the Sunday cheat days that we could. I was worried about it. Then I started listing everything we can eat (please note we are still eating milk, cheese, and eggs). It is not bad. Something to make us think and that is what is needed. I expect us to do well with it – to not become full vegetarians after this, but maybe social meat eaters. The good thing is that I have many cookbooks with recipes that I can use as well as Weight Watcher online. I will keep everyone up on our progress. Sweetie loves my grilled cheese. So worst case we can live off of PB&J and grilled cheese.

After church we went to B&N and purchased Bug’s first Valentine’s presents. *Which reminds me that during lunch I need to get valentines for her class – I know last minute, but I am new at this.* We ate lunch at the Texas Land and Cattle that Sweetie worked at from March 2003 –Feb 2004. It was good – but no waiter ever will live up to how good Sweetie was.

Lunch was a way to pass the time before going back to church to get the alter flowers. The church gives them to people who might need cheering up but you can’t pick them up until the last service. Mom and I had flower duty this time (Sweetie had to work – but he did help us pick them up and get them to the house where we could Google map the addresses). We took flowers to three people and a nursing home. I truly think it cheered them up. Then we saw two German Shepards in the road, one almost got hit by about three inches. I pulled to the side and got the dogs safe. Luckily another car came up and offered to drive the dogs around and to try and find their home. This was wonderful as I was not sure what we were going to do with the dogs, I wasn’t thinking that far ahead, I just didn’t want them safe.

All in all it was a great day. We didn’t get home until late – it was a lot of driving and talking. But it was a beautiful day so it was not bad at all. Brother and SIL came over in the evening and watched Grey’s Anatomy with us. GOOD ONE. Mom and I are soo hooked on this show.

So now I am at work. Everyone is caught up on this thing I call life. Tomorrow marks 9 years since my Sweetie asked for my hand.

OK back to work.

Check in before weekend

I need to walk at least (meaning if I can get out there today then great) 3 miles tomorrow and 45 minutes on Sunday. HowieMaui gave some interest with the 10k. I gave her my training plan. I hope we can walk together at least once a week.

Tonight is maybe game night with HS friends, HowieMaui, and her husband. I can't get into why, but my mom may need me to be with her tonight. Nothing bad.

HowieMaui is also going to join me at church on Sunday - yay.

Last night was so much fun. I get to spend more time with Thomas on Saturday - WOO HOO. Bug was as adorable as ever.

"(Big) Wish" is playing on my iPod. It is from Run Lola Run. A MUST SEE movie and one of mine and Sweetie's absolute favorite. To the point that right after watching it we went online and purchased the soundtrack.

I still hope to play SPF. I think I will catch up over the weekend. Overload everyone with three weeks worth. OK I am off to get ready. I am hyper. I had 1/2liter of diet coke and a power bar.

Reunited

Time for a cheery post. Tonight I get to have dinner with my favorite guy friend from HS. I have not seen him in 10 years. He called last night and I was shocked by how he sounds exactly the same. It was like being in HS all over again - other than me making dinner and us talking about work and houses and adult things like that. I am so excited. Tomorrow night is game night with HS friends. I am dragging HowieMaui and her husband along as well. Should be fun.

OK someone in this office has chocolate. I have to find it.

Did I mention I was considering giving up chocolate for lent.

Hmmmmm

WBW - Gone but Not Forgotten

TheKeptWoman wants us to post photos of those who are no longer with us. And so I shall.

This is the man I miss on a daily basis. He has been gone 8 years, 4 months, and 39 days. This is my father in his Senior High School Photo. He left this earth much too soon and I don't think my mother will ever forgive him for that. However, we make sure that his memory is alive. My brother and I talk about him a lot. I want Bug to know him, even if it is through photos and silly stories about "two bears", she will know him.

This is my Grandpa. He was my hero. He could do no wrong. I miss him almost as much as I miss my father and with the same ache, even though it will be 8 years next month (REALLY crappy year from May 97-Mar 98).

This is me - (blonde on the left) and my brother (kid sitting on the floor) with our lost family. We have my grandpa, grandma, dad, papo, and nanny. Such happy memories. I want to make sure that there are wonderful pictures of family for Bug. You know, just in case.

Thank you for letting me share my favorite people. I could write so much more. However, as it is I am already tearing up.

Everyone please hug your babies and sweeties tonight.

Let the fun begin

** edited to add - I found out Monday that there is not a conflict when it comes to me doing a program for another charity. It is encouraged even.

Last night Sweetie and I started our 10k training. I completed 30 minutes of walking. Yay. It was slightly chilly, but nothing terrible. I would rather workout in the morning. I prefer coming in as the sun rises rather than coming back when it is even darker. I need to work on getting my butt to bed so that I can wake up in the morning. With the hours that I work, I can walk before work.

One of the staff here thinks I should do the Nike Marathon in SanFransico with TNT. It falls just before my 30th b-day. But as I was walking last night, I was starting to doubt if the whole endurance event is what I want to do this year. It takes up a lot of time. I think I will continue as planned and see what I feel like after the 10k, 5k, 10k events that I have planned.

This week and next week I am working on getting my flying (house cleaning) in a routine. So far I am doing good with the bottles and the dishes but there is so much more that needs to be done with Bug so mobile. Then starting the 16th I am back into CPA study mode. Now I have before now and then to decide if I am doing one part or two with my testing at the end of May.

I guess that is the bottom line - do I want an event under my belt or the CPA complete? Which would make me feel the most proud? Which is more realistic? I will continue my walking no matter what. I am only 4 pounds away from being considered "healthy weight". Then anything I lose will be for vanity purposes rather than health.

OK back to work.

8 months

Bug is 8 months old today. WOW. We celebrated at home. Yesterday she had a slight fever. The daycare won't allow her back until she has not had a fever for 24 hours or a doctor's note to say the fever is due to teething.

We went to the doctor. I knew she wasn't sick. She was signing, talking, playing and crawling all morning. Sweetie surprised us while we were in the waiting room. Bug looked at him and then at me as if to say "mom, you didn't tell me dad was coming". Too cute.

So we had clearance to go to work/school but we ended up snuggling. I can't help it. I love to snuggle her. But the best part was my boss. She called to see how we were and told me not to worry about coming in today. She is so wonderful. I really think I am going to like working there.

Monday

The BEST thing happened yesterday. I heard Sweetie say "I like going to work, I like my job". That is so wonderful. I feel the same way. I know this is only my 4th day, but still...

Today I get to meet the staff - as in one on one meetings. I put a signup sheet on my door so everyone could schedule a time. So far it is working. I have my first meeting at 1:30. I feel so comfortable here. My boss said that I had a great first week.

Today starts our 10k training. Mostly I am using this to get back into a training mindset. With the goal being 6 miles, it is not unrealistic. My program has 4-6 days of walking and three days of weights. Totally doable. I am hoping that Bug can put up with the stroller for the longer walks (get up to 90 minutes near the end) so she and I can do out workouts at night.

It is funny. When I started TNT I weighed 50 pounds heavier and had not walking consistently in years. Now I am much lighter and have been walking off and on recently and I am more nervous about this training.

And for those who care, Fat Tuesday is Feb 28th and Ash Wednesday is March 1st. I am still trying to decide what to give up. Chocolate is a consideration.

And I almost forgot to tell you. On Friday Sweetie and I carpooled. That morning I was in my car waiting for him to gather the last of the needed items for the day. He came back with an origami creation in his hands. He gave it to me. It is pink and beautiful. It is a mouse and he gave it to me to put in my office. Isn't he the sweetest.

Bug turns 8 months tomorrow. It is so hard to believe. She is turning into such a sweet little girl. We lover her so much. I cannot wait to go and pick her up this afternoon.

I think that is all I can think to write about.

Awards, Boobies, and Beads

That is a weekend. Let me express it in pictures.

Friday night as we left for the ADDYs. Sweetie won a bronze in Logo design.


Saturday was carnaval. Let's cut to the chase - The costumes.
Me:

Sweetie: His costume came out exactly as he wanted. He was a HUGE hit. We both had our photos taken a million times. He had many women pose with his butt, and one even licked it, lol. My best part was when this young young guy, had to be 18, but maybe just barely, said "Ouch baby" to me. He said it twice as I asked him to repeat himself, lol. The whole event was a great ego boost. Sweetie ate it up. He even would do this little dance when people wanted a photo. And he got a "thank you" sticker on one cheek. He loved how much hoopla his bottom caused.

And Bug's first beads. Too cute!

4 hours

until my Sweetie receivs his award. I got THE cutest outfit last night at Target. LOVE IT. I will look good on my man's arm.

The funny thing is that tonight's event is at the same location as tomorrow's. Very different events.

That is all for now. I have a lot of work to do before I can sneak out early.

Thong Song

Sweetie's thong came in today. YAYAYAYAYYAYAYAYAYAY! And it looks soooo good.

Go Sweetie, Go Sweetie, Go Sweetie

I must say, I love that man's ass.

Day Two

I had to really make myself come to work today. Nothing bad, but it was the most beautiful morning. I left early so I could be here in case the phone guy arrived (from 8:30-1:30 and has not arrived). It was the perfect walking weather. It made me want to sit outside.

This morning was a meeting with a donor donation lady from the home office. It was a good meeting. Very strange as the corporate thoughts are beginning to leave my brain. We then went to lunch. (Of course the phone guy could have come during lunch) Then my boss drove us around downtown to show off Austin. That was not bad. But I got carsick.

Now my boss is working on something closed door related so I post. Such a bad employee already. Actually I am working on arranging my office the way I like. For example, moving the printer off of my work space.

Tonight my Sweetie and brother are going to go to an Anime thingy and I am having dinner with Bug, Mom, and SIL. Should be fun.

DARNIT it is Thursday. I need to post photos tonight. I need to also post my Stuff Portrait Friday as I will be on my Date tomorrow night. That reminds me, I need to figure out what I am going to wear.

1st day check in

My first day was great. There are 11 in the office total, including myself, and everyone seems very nice (even the Amazon beautiful ones). I have keys, a safe, and an office. Very kewl.

I had lunch with my Boss and another manager. Very relaxing. Today in general was relaxing. I printed and read some reports, made a binder for my boss, entered meetings into my calendar, and started arranging my office. A very nice day. Looks like I only have to be there from 9-5. That is nice with Sweetie and me commuting. He insisted that we ride together with the current gas prices.

I just have to say it is amazing to work for an organization where you hear "when were you diagnosed, do you know you can get aid" and receive a hand written card stating thanks for everything the organization has done.

I know I was only out of work for 6 weeks, but it seems like forever. I so missed my after lunch nap, lol. I am going to make sure to take things to make my office mine. I am really trying to use this opportunity to take my introvert self and try to semi-transform myself to an extrovert.

Being there makes me want to be healthy - ignore the icecream tonight. But I did eat good at breakfast and lunch. And dinner was my Sweetie world famous turkey BLTs on wheat bread.

OMG I took a picture on 9/2/03 due to it being my first day of SKIDS - only a couple of weeks after joining Team in Training. I also took a photo today. I look like totally different people. I will have to scan in the older picture. Amazing difference, really. It is not quite my highest weight, but you get the picture.

The three day walk is still intriguing me. Flutter did it in Sept. She is so amazing - ok her mom is even more amazing. Reading her training blog really inspired me. But I have to be realistic. Perhaps I should walk a full marathon before I try to do 60 miles over three days.

Sorry, I have to close now, it is my turn to remove hair for Carnaval.

Love it

quick note to say I am so happy here.