New Years Eve

Good news is that after spending over 6 hours yesterday looking for a dress, and coming up with NOTHING, I left early today and found TWO. And I only spent $30. Right on.

AND the day gets better. A. from work loves me so much that she replaced her phone and gave me her old one. She gave me her LG500 phone. SO VERY AWESOME.

AND the day gets better yet. Brother has an old friend that now lives in Alaska. She has been visiting Texas and family. Tonight it turns out she is in town and he is having her over. We have not seen her in a very long time. And she has her husband and baby with her. Tonight is going to be fun. We are going to stop in at SIL#2's for a bit and then head over to Brothers. I know SIL#2 will be disappointed, but I am sure she will understand as she has done the stop in and move on to another party thing several times - including the first year we were in our house. So it is understood - and we have no idea when we will see Brother's friend again. Nothing like last minute planning.

Great day: productive at work, get a cool phone for free (still trying to figure out how to repay her), time with Bug and Mom, found two dresses, get to see family, and get to see old family friends.

Everyone have a happy and safe New Years.

contemplations

The holidays have been very surreal. I thrived on Bug's reactions to my favorite time of year. And while it was a longer Christmas season, it seemed to pass too quickly to do all that I wanted. And with our anniversary coming up, my focus has been on that.

What do you get the man who makes you happier than anyone else, who knows you better than anyone, who fights for the survival of "you" on a daily basis? The traditional gift is tin/aluminum. Does a can of Mountain Dew really speak my emotions?

Speaking of emotions.... If it wasn't for the little pill that I am on right now, I would swear I was pregnant. I have been crying at ANYTHING. And it doesn't even have to be something I see, just a thought can send me off. It has not been depressed crying - though I did have my normal couple of days in the season where I wanted to crawl into my closet and not come out. Though that was fleeting.

This year I am simply overwhelmed. Overwhelmed with happiness. I feel like everything is going so well. I love it when A at work makes gagging noises when she hears Sweetie and me on the phone, I love it when I hear people say that we are made for each other. I love how hard we have fought and focused and prioritized to get to this point. Ten years ago we were different people. We were young and stupid and yes, in love. We were insecure and didn't even know it. The last 10 years have played like a novel. We have had heartache, feeling lost, losing loved ones, excitement, bliss, sadness, happiness, and the most important, laughter.

Where was I going? I am a very date oriented person. I am a very controlling person. This has not been the case as much lately. Sweetie has something planned for our anniversary. I have no clue what it is. I am not trying to solve the puzzle and ruin the surprise. I have been walking without a stopwatch. And I have been accepting my weight and not letting myself ruin this time in my life because of a stupid number on the scale. This may not sound big, but for me, this is huge.

We still have 4 days in 2007. I am at the point in the year where I look back, think of resolutions and how to improve. 2007 is the year of the Boar. Since BestFriend was born in the year of the boar, she chose the theme of the year - concurring fear. So what have I done with my year? I went to the blog blowout and met fellow bloggers in person - something I would never do. I completed five 5ks. I made the decision to do the RAI - scariest of all only to find out I didn't need it yet. I met old friends and I allowed myself to open up at work and trust people again.

If you know anything about me, you know that I am a firm believer that things happen for a reason. This goes for good and bad. Not so much as a "you did something bad so now you have cancer", but in a this lesson is here for you to learn from, this heartache will lead to something more. I never claim to have the answers as to what the reason is. But it is what keeps me going, it is my faith. Take my disease. I do not know where I am right now, could be in remission could be back in Graves'. You have to let go of control with something like this. And just when I thought I had control and the upper hand, the tables turned and I found out quickly that the control that I thought I had was a mirage. I firmly believe that one of the reasons I have this experience is to teach me to let go, that I cannot have control. And most importantly, control does not mean happiness.

I said that the decision to move ahead with the RAI was the scariest thing done this year. That isn't true. The scariest thing was not looking over my shoulder at every turn, to stop waiting for the next big fall. Sweetie gave me a reminder coin to carry with me for my b-day. It says "faith". To trust, to have faith, to let go of control is very very scary. But, for me, it is the only way to find true happiness. It is the only way to live my life with my soul-mate where we will never again accept neutral as an option and we laugh daily.

Wow, I didn't expect that to be so long. I guess it has been coming. Thanks for listening. And to reward you putting up with my ramblings, here is a photo (there was going to be a video but it is taking too long, I will try again later):

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Christmas was a lot of fun this year. Sunday during the day BestFriend and I got mani/pedis - that was a ton of fun. The night was at Brother's and much fun as Bug kept saying "shake your booty". It is quite cute. Last night was at SIL#2's. It was a lot of fun. Unfortunately we were a little late and had to leave earlier than we wanted due to Bug and needing her to get to sleep before Santa could come. Today was Christmas morning at home. Bug was happy to see her "Blue Bike" and trains from Santa. The remainder of the day was at Mom's. We enjoyed a long nap, dinner, and played a game. It was a lot of fun. It was a very relaxing Christmas.

As much as I love the holiday season, I am so happy to see it come to a close. Back on eating right and exercising tomorrow. I am not out to lose weight - I simply want to lose my weight gain from the last couple of days - I have been oh so bad.

I can now focus on anniversary and whatever is planned, still no clue - but that is ok. I have to buy a new dress. You know that Seinfeld where Elaine buys a dress and it looks so good in the store and when she got it home it didn't look the same. That is what happened to me. Well, that but not as bad. It looks good, but I don't feel as sexy as I did when I tried it on. This next weekend will be back at the stores looking for something else. No worries.

Since tomorrow is back to work, I need to make this short.

And I helped.....

I told you that we were busy through Christmas and right now is no exception. But first let me catch you up.

Thursday, Bug and I went to the mall to get Sweetie's Christmas. We were walking in one of the department stores and she was holding a cup of snacks and a bag of snacks from school. Yes, my child is spoiled and yes this is relevant as it paints the picture. So we were walking side by side without holding hands as hers were full. She looks very "big" when we walk like this. So the conversation went like this:
Me: What does Daddy want for Christmas, Bug?
Bug: Noise. (as a matter of fact as she can be, as if this was all thought out)
Me: Noise?
Bug: yeah, noise.... ahhhhhhh (insert noise we make when getting "gotten" after hiding or being tickled)
Me: Yes, that does make Daddy happy, I guess noise it is.
Just too damn cute!

Yesterday, was my parents 34th wedding anniversary. Mom and I like to celebrate things like this so we went to see P.S. I Love You. We really liked the movie and cried the whole time. Finish the evening with some Starbucks and girl talk and you have yourself a great time.

Today, we went to MIL's to snow the yard. Unfortunately, the wind had other ideas and it didn't turn out quite as we hoped. But the good news is that Bug had a great time.

Tonight was the Nutcracker. It was at a new location. GRRRR! It was disappointing, some of the main things that we love, like the live symphony, were not included. AND they were sold out of nutcrackers. But that didn't stop us from having a great time. Our date is "complete" and we are working on wrapping presents. You might ask why I would blog on a date night and more importantly how can I blog when I am wrapping presents? My sweet sweet husband has a side of OCD. He likes presents wrapped a certain way. While I am the more analytical one, I simply do not take as much care as he does. It drives him a bit batty to watch me wrap. So I am helping by putting the gifts into piles, watching It's a Wonderful Life, and cheering him on.

Tomorrow is pedicure with BestFriend and Christmas Eve Eve with Brother. We must wrap, clean, bake, and buy the last present or two. So much to do.

If I don't get back on before, everyone have a MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!

Christmas has begun

OK since we are busy like daily through Christmas, my posts will most likely be short and to the point.

We had my party on Friday and Sweetie's was tonight. Before the party I decided to get my hair cut. YAY I feel like I am me again. I didn't go as short as I was 10 years ago, but it is shorter than I have been in some time. What else is new this week? I woke up early yesterday and today and worked out. YAY me. And this morning I didn't start my stopwatch as I started my walk, I hit the button but it didn't start and I didn't notice as it was dark. And it didn't bother me. That is big for me. I am doing so much better with my control issues. I am letting go of perfection. I tend to expect too much of myself and then when I don't meet my own self made standards, I beat myself up for it. Stupid really. But I am working on it and have seen huge changes. I am sure a longer post will come soon with more explanation. But for now let's just say that with the anniversary coming up, I am doing a lot of looking back and looking forward. I weighed less when we got married. But everything that I am most proud of in the last 10 years happened when I was at this weight or higher so I have to let go of the idea that the scale will somehow make things better. Things are great now and I am healthy and happy - what more could I ask for? I am focusing on a healthy loss that I can maintain. I am focusing on making memories.

Tomorrow night is our last free night until Christmas. We need to finish shopping and start wrapping.

I am feeling so good that I feel guilty. I hate it when friends hurt. I want to make it better.

getting my party on

I still feel crappy, but am in such a great mood. I had another weight loss this week. I am feeling great about that.

My anniversary ring came in. We had it shipped to Sweetie's work. He is very very happy with it. I cannot wait to see it.

Tonight is our company Christmas party. I am so excited. Last year I didn't really know anyone. But now that I have been here longer, I am excited.

OK that wasn't much of a post. Sorry about that. But I must got get beautimus for my party.

~Night y'all~

One great day

Sweetie and I both took the day off for Christmas shopping. We completed most of it, there is always more, isn't there? But we had great fun. Sweetie had a dentist appointment first thing this morning so I shopped for a dress for our anniversary. I knew I wanted to wear a dress that makes me feel pretty. I was successful. I went to Macy's and found an elegant white and black dress. I tried on several and this was the only one I wanted to keep on. If I lose a couple of pounds it will be that much more comfortable.

So I was feeling good when we started our shopping. We had such a great day shopping and laughing. I am not feeling great, going from 80 to 40 does that. But it didn't hold us back. It truly was a great day.

Now I need to feel better so I can get back into the exercise.

Thank you again, God!

Somehow I am awake. We were up late. Sweetie and Bug are still in bed. I am enjoying water and motrin as I upload my photos from last night. It all still seems a blur. I am so thankful for this year. This scary year of the Boar. You see BestFriend declared this to be the year of doing scary things, as it is the year of the Boar. More on that at my year end recap. Yesterday was a big day for me. I was going to do a new 5k and reunite with a friend that I have not seen since 1992, yes the same year Sweetie and I met. First some back story. She was a friend of Brothers, as I have said before. She was his roommate and quickly became one of the family. She was 5 years older than me, and to a 15 year old, that is older - the irony being that BestFriend and she are the same age. She was the older sister I never had. She had a huge impact on my life. Then circumstances were as they were and she moved away. The catch is there was no goodbye. For many years I had trouble with this. I dreamt about her, I was angry with her. Then time passes, life happens, you grow up, and suddenly though everything is not known, it is understood.

Last night was the 5k. We planned this as our reuniting place. It was a fun and healthy place to meet. Let's be honest, it was neutral and safe. She had a shitty week and I was worried that circumstances as they were, she would not make it. Things were different as originally planned. She and I did not meet up at the start, parking for the event was HORRIBLE, but this is a happy post so I will not go into that. She was not up for the walk so she brought her family to cheer me on and to meet up at the end.

Sweetie and BestFriend ran, and did awesome might I add. I pushed Bug in her stroller. Thanks to cellular technology, I saw her as I passed the starting line. I saw she was with her family. It was real. The first mile is getting over to the lights. That is the fastest I have ever done a mile. I even did quite a bit of running - not a lot by normal people standards, but a lot for me. Then we got to the lights, I didn't run and I we enjoyed the lights, but meeting up with this person keep me going. At the end of the lights was an optional exit. I could tell Bug was getting antsy. She loved the lights, but she wanted to go out and touch them - silly 'ol Bug. The last mile did not have lights so I knew she would be bored. And since I didn't even start my stop watch - how very very very unlike me - we opted to stop. We waited at the designated meeting point for BestFriend. Sweetie was going backwards on the trail to find us, and of course we weren't there. That is the only bad part of stopping early. After I cooled off, and composed myself, I called T to let her know I was at the tree.

And there she was. In real life. We hugged, I met her family. Her youngest, 6 months older than Bug, took to me the minute he saw me. And Bug didn't mind sharing - which she is good about at school, but this was different. BestFriend and Sweetie were there as my rocks. Without them I would have chickened out. It was so very special to see this person again after so long. We all went to dinner. We chatted and had fun. Sweetie offered for them to come back to our house. And something different happened. I didn't freak out because the house wasn't picture perfect. I welcomed them over. Something is a changin' in these here parts. BestFriend couldn't stay as she had some single girl plans, which I hope she had a great time. We had a great visit. There were tears, happy tears. Sweetie kept T's husband, JM, and her two teenagers happy with our Wii. And Bug has her new friend, Doodle. She loves him and kept saying his name. This is the first time she has really had a kid her age in our home and playing with her toys. She was amazing.

Oh and no worries when you count the walk to and from when we parked, I did more than a 5k's worth of distance.

Here is BestFriend with Bug after the race, hope she doesn't kill me for posting a pic of her sweaty - she just ran a 5k:Here
Here is BestFriend after the race: Even the kids felt the urge to do something healthy: And the best part of having a boy as a friend - you can put buckets on their head:Thank you Brother for finding her on the M*y S*pa*ce crack and contacting her. Thank you God for not taking her on Friday. I am so thankful she is here. I am so thankful this year for those in my life. I am thankful to be surrounded by such strength.

As we drifted off to sleep last night Sweetie asked me if I was happy, "Yes" I answered with a smile bright enough to light the darkened room.

bringing it all together

Time for reflection. Time for contemplation. I am fighting a cold. Fighting it hard might I add. I refuse to be sick. This weekend is too special. I have the trail of lights 5k. The neat part about this year is that I get to see the trail of lights twice. We have the 5k and then we always go with SIL#2, BIL, Niece, MIL, and Mom. Lots of fun this year.

But something else is happening on Saturday, at the 5k. I am reconnecting with the friend that I have not seen in some fifteen years. I am excited. I am nervous. I have grown, matured, and changed since then. What if she doesn't like me? What if I am not cool enough for her? What if time has been too much? Brother has already met with her a couple of times. I am convinced that I am overreacting.

I am feeling so good. I think my thyroid is still normal. I have been doing very well with my diet. Though nothing has been off limits - it is the holiday season. Having WW at work has been very nice. Tomorrow is weigh in. So far I am down 5 pounds. We shall see what tomorrow brings.

Four weeks left until 10 years. We purchased new wedding bands for the celebration and picked them up last night. They are so beautiful. And tonight we found my anniversary ring. I have been looking for the perfect ring. I am not a traditional type. I wanted something different. I did not want diamonds. When I found this ring and showed Sweetie, he pulled his wallet out immediately and told me to order it because it is the ring. I am so excited. Have I mentioned that I still do not know the plans? Have I mentioned that I have not been asking? Have I mentioned that this drives me crazy?

I am tired. Tonight is going to be watching Christmas movies, eating PB&J, and a long bath. I
have to feel better for the fun of Saturday!

In the Sprit

Happy Toes

I have pretty toes. BestFriend and I got mani/pedis yesterday. It was so much fun. We don't get to spend much one-on-one time together, so we made up for it yesterday.

We have had a great weekend. Friday night Sweetie, Bug, and I adopted an angel from the Salvation Army Angel Tree. We purchased the items for a little girl named Teresa and turned them in today. I hope it helps to make her Christmas a little better.

We also had a guy try to scam us out of cash. GRRRR I hate people like that. I am happy to help when needed, don't play on that. Don't make me feel used as you walk away. No, we didn't fall for his scam. It just upset me that he even tried.

I have a ton of work to do this next week. But that is ok. I am still very happy. And I get to interview two people on Tuesday. Yes, one of my peeps is leaving, long story. I have done this before, but it is always a little nerve wracking. I mean I want to pick the right person for the job.

What else is new? I feel like I have not blogged in so long. We have been enjoying Bug so much this season. She loves the Christmas tree, the songs, and the specials. She is awesome. She may have her two year old moments, aka stubborn fits, but I love this age.

OK sorry for the short post, but I need to get to sleep.

BestFriend Strikes Again

First, HAPPY BIRTHDAY BESTFRIEND!!!!!

She did it again, she got me to register for another 5k. We are doing the Trail of Lights 5k. This is a 5k at night through Zilker Park's Trail of Lights. It is going to be fun. Plus we get a long sleeve t-shirt. What more can we ask for?

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World Domination Tuesday

First a HUGE SHOUT OUT - HAPPY BIRTHDAY HOWIEMAUI!!!!!

Now onto what I was going to say. I am sore. Not just sore, I am very sore. I have not worked out with my power 90 videos since labor day-ish. At that point I was doing level 1. Last night I decided that I need to get back on it if I want a loss during the holiday season and to feel great about myself for our anniversary. So I did level 2. Makes sense right? I mean it has been almost 3 months since I did anything like this, shouldn't I be able to move on to level 2? The overall video is the same as level 1. But, it is 12 minutes longer and I swear the extra time is with lunges and push ups. OWIE. I am so sore. It feels good to know I worked hard, but damn.

And get this, after my workout, I made dinner. That involved THREE pots/bowls to cook. AND we ate at the dining room table. Am I awesome or what?

My goal is to workout again tonight. but if it doesn't happen, that is ok. No beating myself up.

And I never posted about Thanksgiving weekend. It was AWESOME. No stress. I did not have my traditional flip-out. YAY. It was four days filled with family and good times. We got a new tree, picture is at home of course, it is beautiful. Very very us. We played a lot of Wii. Sweetie and I have a competition on who is better at Big Brain Academy - LOVE THAT GAME. We were even productive and made a huge dent in the laundry. It was the best four day weekend. It was a weekend where we spent every minute together and wanted more.

We are finishing putting up the decorations after work this week and hopefully putting up the lights outside soon - it is supposed to rain again this weekend.

Did I mention that I love Christmas?

Giving Thanks

It is that time of year again, time to give thanks. This year I am not feeling up to par, allergies are kicking my butt. My response is to take the holiday as stress free as possible. The house isn't perfect, the floor isn't spotless, Bug's room is a mess from us putting in her big girl bed (a twin now). But none of that matters. What matters is family, quality time with loved ones, and being thankful.

I am thankful for so much this year.

• For my Mom. I am thankful that she is so close to me. I am thankful for her expressions of what a great mom I am.
• For my home, my job, my health.
  
• For my friends and family.
• For me. I am learning more about myself everyday and I like who I am. I may not be the weight that I want but that is ok. When I look at what I have accomplished at the weight I am now or higher, I cannot complain.
  
• But above all else, I am thankful for Sweetie and Bug. They are my life, my support system, and my constant reminder of good in the world.

This morning Bug reminded me again of how thankful I am. This is the first year for Bug to enjoy to parade. She and I sat on the floor watching in awe. She is amazing. Here we are, watching the fun - of course straight from bed. Here is Sweetie and Bug. Sweetie smokes the turkey every year. He wakes up early and tends to the temp and I wake up to his wonderful kiss and him smelling of smoked turkey. This is what makes my Thanksgiving. May everyone have a wonderful and safe holiday. Take time to tell your loved ones how much they mean to you.

Only Two

Two Names You Go By:
1. Missy 2. Melissa
Two Things You Are Wearing Right Now:
1. Grey turtle neck-ish shirt 2. The prettiest panties with little flowers on them (I am wearing pants over them)
Two Things You Would Want (or have) in a Relationship:
1. Trust 2. Laughter
Two of Your Favorite Things to do:
1. Walk with my family 2. Play games
Two Things You Want Very Badly At The Moment:
1. Sleep 2. Clean for Thanksgiving
Two things you did last night:
1. Walked for an hour with Bug 2. Started cleaning the dining room
Two things you ate today:
1. Slim-fast 2. Vitamins
Two people you Last Talked To:
In Person
1 . Co worker Buddy A and another co-worker
IM
1. Mom and Sweetie
Two Things You're doing tomorrow:
1. Cleaning for Thanksgiving 2. Hopefully finish a big project at work. My boss says I have to finish it to get Thanksgiving off, he jokes but I want it done.
Two longest car rides:
1. Austin to Florida 2. Austin to McAllen
Two Favorite Holidays:
1. Thanksgiving 2. Christmas
Two Favorite Beverages:
1. Right now, Peppermint White Chocolate Mocha - for me it is a big O in a cup :-) 2. Cherry Coke
Two Things About Me -Things you may not have known:
What don't you know? That is hard.
1. The Friend's episode with the chocolate chip cookie recipe, that is what happened to me. I thought my G-ma's cookies were an old family recipe.
2. I have to have my programs appear on my toolbar the same way each day. When a program quits and things are out of order, it really bugs me
Two jobs I have had in my life:
1. Accounting Manager 2. Candy Counter Saleswoman - with Lammes - mmm mmm mmmm
Two Movies I would watch over and over :
1. Nemo - oh wait movies I want to watch over and over; FightClub 2. Steel Magnolias
Two places I have lived:
1. Austin 2. Cedar Park
Two of my Favorite Foods:
1. Chocolate 2. Sushi
Two places I'd rather be right now:
1. Home in bed snuggling Sweetie 2. Near water
Two people I think will respond:
1. Mom 2. not sure
P.S. Now add a couple of questions:
What have been the happiest two moments in your life:
I am leaving out birth of Bug and wedding - as those are obvious
1. Finding out we were pregnant 2. Walking the stage for my MBA
What books are you reading right now:
1. CPA/Thyroid/Walking books 2. The Golden Compass

Beginning the Season

Happy Birthday Daddy! Today is my Dad's b-day, he would be 62. As we do, we did our shopping. And since everyone started the holidays early this is the first year we have been surrounded by Holiday Music/Decorations/General Cheer on a full blown level. This was very fun. This is my favorite time of year. Not for the presents, but for the fun, the family, the tradition. Even the station that goes "all holiday music" started the fun early. Normally they start the day after Thanksgiving. Nope today the music was on. I could go on and on about the marketing concepts that corporate America is pushing on us and how it isn't about making the cheer of the season last longer but rather more paychecks in the season making you spend more. But you know what? I won't do it, I love the season and I am going to enjoy the extended version.

We had the best day. BestFriend joined us for a short time with lunch. She is wonderful and asked me and Mom to tell her about my Dad. We were crying for most of lunch. But it was a good time.

Shopping on this day is a tradition for Mom and me. But I think this year we accomplished the least amount of actual shopping, lol. We ended up browsing jewelry stores. With the upcoming 10th wedding anniversary coming up, Sweetie and I are getting new wedding bands. This has me on a hunt for a new "engagement" type of ring. Well, long story short, Mom and I went from store to store looking at their offerings. This was fun as what I want this time is more non-traditional.

At the end of the day we laughed that we didn't do much actual shopping but it was one of the most fun shopping days we have had. Thank you, Sweetie, for watching Bug for me.

This week was very good. Not only did I have my b-day, a good week at work, Bug's Thanksgiving lunch at school, had a weight loss at WW, and a fun shopping day, but I also got in contact with an old friend. This friend was actually a friend of my brother's and more of my "big sister". She was awesome and I felt a great loss when she moved away. Not to dwell on that at all. Time has passed, everything has changed, circumstances are understood, and well... life happens. But thanks to Brother's boss being out of town and him surfing the 'ol my*spa*ce, he re-found this friend. I received a warm email from her today and I can't wait to get back in contact. When she last saw me, I was 15. Things have changed a tad bit since then.

Thanksgiving is next week. I can't wait. I have a ton of cleaning to do, but such is life. I love Thanksgiving. Reflecting on what we are thankful for is always important. And it is supposed to be cold and rainy for the day. Perfect weather, IMHO.

Today I am thankful for the people in my life. I am so very lucky to have such amazing people around me.

** I forgot to add, I got my test results back. While my thyroid is lower, which means closer to Hyper than it was 1.5 months ago, it is still normal. I am getting rid of my Endo. Not because of her, but because of her rude ass staff. I get my levels checked again in January. However, I am living as if I am in remission, regardless of how long I get to enjoy it. Which means if all goes well, we may be able to start thinking of trying for #2 in March (six months being off anti-thyroid medicines). We shall see, a lot can happen between now and then. My focus is being as healthy as I can in the meantime.

Yes, bullet points again.

• Back at work today. Not only did I have a ton of emails to go through, but I also had a 2 hour meeting - yay. Can you say, not caught up at all? Yes, I knew you could.
  
• I am getting my blood tested tomorrow, yes two weeks early. I am noticing some symptoms. And to be honest I have no clue if I am hypo or hyper.
  
• I had to take co-worker bud, A, to the ER today. She is having heart issues. Not cool at all. I just hope they figure everything out.
• Behind my knee is hurting again too. GRRRR!
• Sweetie downloaded Super Mario Brothers Three for our Wii. This is my all time favorite game.
  

birthday comes to a close

My birthday weekend has been wonderful. Saturday during the day Bug had a b-day party at an inflatable play place. She had so much fun, as did I. Saturday night Sweetie and I had a date night. We went to Cool River and enjoyed some of his Halloween winnings. We had a fantastic time. The meal was delicious, the service was divine, and the atmosphere was wonderful. It could not have been better.

Today Sweetie and I took off from work. Mom made cupcakes and we took them in to Bug's school. I wanted all my kids to celebrate my "Happy Day". We then set out for our day. We enjoyed some breakfast, some shopping, a movie, some lunch, talking, planning, and dreaming. The wonderful day completed with Bug and I taking a walk around my Mom's neighborhood, where I grew up. Funny how everything seems so much smaller now. We then had dinner with Brother, SIL#1, Mom, MIL, SIL#2, BIL, Niece, and BestFriend.

It was a great day. Now back to the norm and preparing for Thanksgiving.

~HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO ME~

Happy Birthday to ME!!! I am now officially 30 something. 31 years ago I entered this world.

bullet point day

• You never realize how much you shift your weight and move in a chair until it squeaks.
• Life is all about how you look at things. I had a bad day yesterday and had some M&Ms. A co-worker pointed out that if you turn them upside down it is "WW" which means they must be weight watchers candy.
• I got back from getting my car inspected today to find on my desk several bags with M&Ms in them. On each bag has "2 points" written on it. My work buddy A went to the trouble of figuring out how many M&Ms are in 2 points and made these emergency bags for me. Isn't that sweet. I truly do have a great support network around me.
• I love it when I am on the road by my work and people flash their lights to tell others of a cop up ahead.
• It cracks me up that our 12 year old car passed inspection with flying colors but my 5 year old car needed a new part to pass.
• I have no idea where my thyroid is. GRRRR.
• I get to have dinner with my Diva's tonight. My Sweetie is too good to me.
• My b-day weekend has already started. I got a card from a co-worker today.
• My Bug sings "die die die". She gets it from A Bug's Life. It sounds horrible. But I know it could be MUCH worse, and will be knowing her.
• I still need to post the picture of the "Loose weight now" car. That is mine and Sweetie's BIGGEST pet peeve. Lose and Loose are not the same. I laugh at it but it is like nails on a chalk board to me.

Picture me Picture you

Time for some pictures. First, Bug was a little dead girl. The best part? The outfit will also be her christmas outfit, lol.Then on Saturday we had a family day. We went and hung out with the cows. Sunday was Race for a Cure. As soon as Bug saw her bib she said "I running". Bug and me at the race. Sweetie was there too, but his start was different than mine as he was chip timed and I went with the easy going crowd. The weather was wonderful. BestFriend Bug was wonderful. She slept through about half of the race. After she woke up, she was happy in her stroller watching everyone. Once we finished she was ready to party.The walk yesterday was great. I love participating in events like that. I love that Sweetie was a part of it too. I am sore today and behind my knee is hurting again. I think I need to make sure to take it easy.

I planned to do a much more in-depth post but tonight consisted of playing in the front yard watching stars, playing trains, snuggling Sweetie, lots of laughing/singing, and eating dinner.

pre-5k check in

Just a quick note to say that I am doing good. Race for A Cure is tomorrow morning. So we have to get up nice and early. Thank goodness for the time change.

Let's see, what have I been up to?
Halloween was good, pictures to come. Weight Watchers started on Friday. I am so excited. It is going to be good. Now I just need to get back on the 'ol workout routine and I should be set.

OK short and sweet. I need my beauty sleep for tomorrow morning I walk in the sea of pink.

life is good

Today, I had jury duty. I was not picked and was back at work at just after noon. I am such a good employee, I could have taken the whole day off. Weight watchers at work starts this week - woo hoo! I am so excited.

This weekend was so wonderful. Sweetie and I enjoyed each other and our Bug. It was one of those weekends where everything feels so good. Sweetie and I have reached great point in our relationship. We are perfect for each other. And since we have been together for close to 15.5 years, we have grown with each other. We have had several different relationships during this time. It is hard to describe. But we are very different people than 15, or even 3, years ago. With each new phase we find ourselves closer. This weekend we joked and laughed about some of our harder times. This was a huge step. It means I have let go a lot - and that is a big thing for this control freak.

My point is that I am feeling so good. I know I have said it. I wish I could completely describe the difference. I am more confident, more awake. It is a great feeling. I knew I was hypo - I KNEW IT. Now I know better. Another month and I will get my blood tested again. I have no idea where I am right now. All I know is where I don't want to be.

I am very very emotional. Not bad, but in a appreciating everything and everyone around me kind of way.

I do have one bad issue. OK I have many issues, but this one is different. Last week I noticed behind my left knee was giving me some pain. Nothing horrible, but annoying. I assumed I just needed to "work it out". Last night we went on a family walk/run. It was fun as always and I ran more than the last time as my coach can be a hard ass (she says "run mommy"). Today the pain is worse. And tonight it is hurting to walk. Nothing to go to the Dr about, but I must baby it. I have a heating pad on it now. The issue is that the Race for a Cure is this weekend. I have to get this better in order to walk. Grrrr

Now time for bed. I have my heating pad, ate some of the best French toast ala Sweetie, and will have my Bug to snuggle.

All in all, Life Is Good!

Costume Fun

Here I am all ready for our night out, I am considering getting my nose pierced :BestFriend was there and gorgeous as always:BestFriend and Michelle: Michelle was the best cat woman:Sweetie before : Sweetie after: Shortly after we arrived, Sweetie received this: HE WON THIRD PLACE!!!!! Third place was $500. I am so very proud of him!

This was second place: And this was first place: Sweetie was very creepy. He received great reactions and we found out he has amazing thigh strength. He had to squat walk all night. Is he sore today? Nope. Amazing truly.

OK back to my fantastic weekend. Family day today has been awesome.

Lack of Blogging

Man, it seems that I have no time to blog. Things are fast paced as always. This past weekend was so very nice. Friday night BestFriend, Mom, Bug, and I volunteered for the Special Needs Dance in Gtown. It was so wonderful. I am beyond proud of my daughter. She was receptive to everyone, regardless of their "difference". It was so heart warming to be appreciated for a few hours of our time. Bug and I danced and took pictures. I need to upload them for BestFriend.

Weight Watchers is finally starting the at work program this week. The first meeting will be on Thursday and then Fridays until Feb 22. That means I should have some good motivation to be good through the holidays. I couldn't do any other plan around co-workers. I wouldn't want them watching what I eat. But with WW you don't know if I have the points for what I am eating, so there :-)

Sweetie and I registered for the Cap 10k on 3/30/08. It falls on my Grandpa's b-day. Since we already paid for it, we are much more likely to train for it. I am so excited.

Today is so beautiful. I love this fall weather. I don't get spring fever, I get fall fever. This weather makes me want to walk, to clean, and to organize. On Sunday I started going through the pantry. Throwing away old items, cleaning the shelves. I didn't complete it, but I made a good dent.

We are almost ready for Halloween at my house. Sweetie is the only one whose costume is lacking. And we are going to a Halloween Party this year. That is big for us.

I am still feeling so good. I can't even describe it. I feel like a blanket has been lifted. I feel like me again. And that is a very good thing, I like me.

It is getting close to 5. I need to finish up some work and go get my baby. For a very nice change Sweetie will be home when I get there. Poor guy has been having to get up at 5 the last two mornings for work and having to stand all day. I think I will cook him a nice dinner tonight. Hopefully we can go on a family walk as well, we shall see.

Everyone have a great night.

time for a change?

Sweetie and I got our passport renewals in the mail today, you never know when a girl's weekend in Canada will happen. However, you have to send in your old passport. I looked at mine one last time before putting it in the envelope. The photo is from Nov 1994. I was 18. I think I look so young in the photo. But what really surprised me was my hair style. It is the same as my new photo. Sure the hair is darker now and I have gained some weight since my teen days, who hasn't? But the style is the same. Now I have not had the same style during the 13 years. Every year or so I cut it short then I grow it long, you get the idea. My hair was super short and super cute at our wedding. I have thought about going back to that short. I think it was just a little strange to see two photos 13 years apart with the same style. I want to be the cutest little me I can for my 31st b-day.

So now I need to decide what I want to do with my hair. Grow it, cut it, color it?

we went, we walked, we livedstrong

LiveStrong was awesome. We went to the race expo last night and had fun. I filled out an "In Honor Of" sheet for Deb. That felt awesome. Bug was very good with the chaos and excitement. She found the CVS booth and fell in love with the little bean bag chairs that they had. I asked her if we needed to get some for home to which she replied "yes".

This morning came early. BestFriend was at the house by 6:15am. Bug did not understand why we were getting up so early and why the sun was not up. We found great parking and had plenty of time to warm up before the start of the race.

The race started and ended at the Capitol. Sweetie and me before the race.Bug and Sweetie listening to Lance's speech. The weather was perfect, though the sun was bright at a couple of locations. The best part for me was the music. There was a DJ mixing live while on a pedi-cab. Normally as a walker the fun stuff is already done by the time we get there. Not only did we get to dance while walking, we even passed the DJ. We passed a lot of people. Bug was awesome. She fell asleep shortly after the start and didn't wake up until we finished. Sweetie and Bug after the race. I did great. I even ran some. And I got a PR. YAY me!!!! Here I am after the race. BestFriend also got a PR. Of course, she ran the whole way and met us at the end. And two more photos to round out the post. This is my new cube and my new shoe laces. OK off to enjoy the rest of my weekend. Be safe.

LiveStrong Tomorrow

Tomorrow is LiveStrong. YAY. I have not been walking. But that is ok. I may be slow but I will finish.

Last night was so wonderful with my friends. My Divas are awesome. I am feeling so much better. It truly is amazing at how much better I am feeling. I am more focused, more awake, with more energy, higher sex drive (if you must know), and all in all feeling better.

I don't know what is going to happen with my thyroid. And I am ok with that. I am simply focusing on being healthier for me. But what I do know is when I said over and over and over and over the past oh 10 months that I felt I was hypo, I was. I have my blood work and I am going to keep it close to me. Regardless of how my thyroid goes I will be able to say "see these numbers, this is when I feel best, keep me here".

My b-day is a month away. YAY! Though Sweetie said that we are skipping it due to the anniversary coming up. He is funny. So my goal is to workout and be healthy and see a weight loss before my b-day. Nothing crazy, just down :-)

Ok Just realized that all the bosses are gone and all my peeps are gone, why am I here? I think I will go get a Bug and a Sweetie and go to packet pick up for LiveStrong.

Be healthy everyone!

Happy

Just a quick note to say how happy and great I feel. Tonight was dinner with my Divas. It was wonderful, as always.

This week has shown me how over medicated I was for many months. I am feeling so healthy.