tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-59434509841607302632024-03-04T20:14:34.116-08:00The Melanie Report"The pain is only temporary but the pride is permanent."
From January 2012 to NOW... The LIVE version of how I am changing my life.Unknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger98125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943450984160730263.post-70905172777084594482014-03-08T16:11:00.000-08:002014-03-08T16:11:21.193-08:00Melanie Reporting: Personal Trainer Food<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">No, I am not getting a kick back from Personal Trainer Food. Yes, I am looking for a way to spur myself back into blogging. Yes, I am only three full days in and feel like cheating with chocolate. <i>(When I started this, I was three days in. Now I am on my sixth day. Still wanting chocolate and now I'd like a latte too. A venti one.)</i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Ok! First things first! The selection of food.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">The process was easy but I wish you could read reviews on individual foods. You know, in theory a Buffalo Ranch Chicken Stick sounds appealing but is it really? I chose the quick fill in option and tweaked the choices from there. Microwave in a bag sausage? Um, no thanks! And I wish there were more breakfast choices. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">It was a Monday when I ordered and the earliest delivery option was the upcoming Thursday. I decided on a Saturday delivery and lo and behold, this huge cooler box arrived as scheduled on Saturday. <i>(shipping is free and Saturday shipments are not an extra cost because it is a standard residential delivery day for FedEx)</i></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjfcVI0uYJJLk94TYOpM1xocvTcXJ2TFITwXMxeaLYOVsW1DTNjJOYmfJt4lKuaXelHaStgeWufsQ9HREwBrmH9VrGZS6ycZvcc1n16wX4HYj6W-rC9kWcy7-HyuRAmityKtABTU8XnHbz/s640/blogger-image-675699176.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjfcVI0uYJJLk94TYOpM1xocvTcXJ2TFITwXMxeaLYOVsW1DTNjJOYmfJt4lKuaXelHaStgeWufsQ9HREwBrmH9VrGZS6ycZvcc1n16wX4HYj6W-rC9kWcy7-HyuRAmityKtABTU8XnHbz/s200/blogger-image-675699176.jpg" width="149" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgObzZs6qVLquQc0JDgBNvCXfTJTyEZj-URSkIlIFcug85SESbqdqza_9h6zVJjMZXsIIrZgwryfjcJ03Ho69ovWWOlwBnV3OFM5Cq_DAv9g6b66O4pvdQyIEsLVerS_fatkqcA9qTKIpXp/s640/blogger-image-1087275138.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgObzZs6qVLquQc0JDgBNvCXfTJTyEZj-URSkIlIFcug85SESbqdqza_9h6zVJjMZXsIIrZgwryfjcJ03Ho69ovWWOlwBnV3OFM5Cq_DAv9g6b66O4pvdQyIEsLVerS_fatkqcA9qTKIpXp/s200/blogger-image-1087275138.jpg" width="149" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">I didn't care for the message on the flyer but that isn't a huge concern. This is definitely a diet marketed heavily to women. Most specifically women who are on the cusp of getting married. Been there, done that! The other documents provided are instructions, do's and don'ts, and a message about cheating on your diet. (Boo!) Did you know that one cheat day can set you back 2-4 days? That explains my problems, I guess! I probably have about 21 days left until I'm not set back anymore ;)</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj15dD7XLYgLWeHohtVm91GDPpnqNMoasSvBFlSYaqn_4Y7cIqp2bOw9sbcFE9mwf-6Jqo_1iKNp_5XLEtvcNXl8e0w1n7OuIbUc731X5Cd7fGUjcFW5H17W7QDm34Z3zjbSZ5qNZzpEkNx/s640/blogger-image--305789405.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj15dD7XLYgLWeHohtVm91GDPpnqNMoasSvBFlSYaqn_4Y7cIqp2bOw9sbcFE9mwf-6Jqo_1iKNp_5XLEtvcNXl8e0w1n7OuIbUc731X5Cd7fGUjcFW5H17W7QDm34Z3zjbSZ5qNZzpEkNx/s320/blogger-image--305789405.jpg" width="239" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYk1DWEfLDHfYo46ZhyphenhyphenrvWjAT2SFr29UOvUmIeEzxyQckxh-ZfXXiJWTcT3UPuIhjMjR9Hu2nFZ4L6GJPSnfG7Sn_l_7IlOadxdzKSYoHmOYhIDaCzbahUaZm6RHv_S6yVaMlJp6mJcREP/s640/blogger-image-1029516376.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYk1DWEfLDHfYo46ZhyphenhyphenrvWjAT2SFr29UOvUmIeEzxyQckxh-ZfXXiJWTcT3UPuIhjMjR9Hu2nFZ4L6GJPSnfG7Sn_l_7IlOadxdzKSYoHmOYhIDaCzbahUaZm6RHv_S6yVaMlJp6mJcREP/s320/blogger-image-1029516376.jpg" width="239" /></a></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">I quickly realized that I was unexpectedly limited on freezer space thanks to my husband. I had to make space where I could find it and I actually ended up bringing a week's worth of lunches to work. It's nice because there is nothing to measure or memorize. Hell, I can't even remember two hours ago let alone the heating instructions for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Only downsides are: 1) I'm not sure about the dry ice packing method during the hot summer months (if I continue with this plan for that long) and 2) there was no organization in the cooler box - I wish veggies had been with veggies and dinners with dinner, etc.</span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Pros after 6 days</span></span></b><br />
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<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">"Frustration Free" packaging. I can easily open the microwaveable bags with one hand. Considering that I open most things while holding a squirmy baby, this is really important.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">The meat is surprisingly moist and tasty! This makes me rethink my original aversion to the sausage.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Meals are ready in less than 3 and a half minutes.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">The veggies seem really fresh despite the fact that they are frozen. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">The diet is restrictive but easy to incorporate if you get pulled into a work lunch or celebratory dinner. I've needed to go out to lunch 3 times this week and using the "Do" and "Do Not" list, I felt successful in picking foods. My new friend/a new find near work: tri tip lettuce wrap with ranch dressing, tomatoes, cilantro, green salsa, onions, jicama, and low fat cheese. Yummy!</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">I can drink coffee but I cannot use my non-fat, low calorie liquid creamer. I've decided cinnamon is a good alternative.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Unlimited leafy greens</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Salad Dressing with less than 2g of sugar is allowed</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Non-starchy Veggies (<a href="http://www.diabetes.org/food-and-fitness/food/what-can-i-eat/making-healthy-food-choices/non-starchy-vegetables.html" target="_blank">there's lots more than I knew about it</a>!) are allowed</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Other snacks that are allowed are: lunch meats, 6 oz of skim cheese, avocado, 3 oz per day of one of these: almonds, pistachios, macadamia, sunflower seeds </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">My digestive distress as of late has completely disappeared. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">I've lost 6 pounds!</span></span></li>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><b>Cons after 6 days</b></span></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">I love fruit! And... no fruits except an apple a day :( I'd dance around on a street corner wearing a sandwich board to have 17 grapes right about now. <i>(remember, way back when when I complained about ONLY being able to eat 17 grapes? yeah, I'd go back to that. :))</i></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">I love eating eggs but right now, if I see another omelet, I might cry. Too bad eggs are on the menu for breakfast for the next 22 days. The only thing that makes the eggs passable is that they are paired with a sausage patty. If I cook the omelet with the sausage on top, the juices spread over the egg and it tastes so much better. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">The veggies are fresh tasting but steamed, soft veggies are going to get old. Give a girl some directions on how to cook these outside of the bag without your icky butter-garlic sauce. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">No yogurt, sugar, grains, milk, olives, or artichokes (there's more but these are things I like)</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">It's weird because they list carrots as a starchy veggie but it's in the packs of vegetables they provide. I've been chomping down carrots like crazy and I just realized they are on the DO NOT list.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">I wish the guidelines for snacks were a little bit clearer. </span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">I did not feel fueled up enough for my regular workout. I felt like my body was dragging at things that I am used to doing. The 5-30 minute walks recommended by the program were fine though.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Commercials on TV and the Radio really suck when you are on a diet. If I have to hear about pizza or cupcakes one more time, I will likely commit a pizza related diet crime at the Mountain Mike's All You Cat Eat Pizza Bar.</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">I'm physically and mentally fatigued though I don't feel like it is all the new diet. I do have an 8 and a half month old, after all. </span></span></li>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br />Overall, I feel like this week has been successful. I've been a little bit grumpy and restricted but I think of the last time I did a diet overhaul and that had a great outcome. I just have to push forward and stay away from the chocolate chips and reese's peanut cups that my husband brought home last week. Darn him!</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">And I leave you with this... <i>(and I will)</i></span></span></div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943450984160730263.post-51333414373577271382014-03-03T19:18:00.002-08:002014-03-03T19:18:40.323-08:009 Months On - 9 Months Off and Other Myths of Being a New Mom (Breastfeeding does not equal weight loss... whoever started that deserves to be smacked!)<br />
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I've spent a lot of time (almost 9 months, to be exact) feeling sorry for myself and feeling down on my body. My resolution this year is to have a healthier attitude because in the end, the way I treat myself will have a direct impact on my daughter. And let's be real, she's pretty important! She's already watching me and listening to me. She smiles when I call us "pretty girls" in the mirror and she frowns when I'm complaining about (insert complaint here). <br />
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When I ran (stumbled/walked/tripped/cried through) the Tinkerbell Half
Marathon in January, things hit me pretty hard. Despite my pants fitting
well, a semi/fake positive attitude, and feeling physically strong, the
extra weight does slow me down. I can feel it in my back and knees. I
can feel it when I try to stand up taller when I run. I could certainly
feel it when I hit mile six and realized that I was screwed. (I didn't
get swept, thank goodness! Though I am pretty sure I came close)<br />
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I've been working out regularly since August and the number on the scale has not moved. We all know my love-hate relationship with the scale is heavily on the side of hate and how much it psychs me out. I have solid proof that my body has positively changed in the last nine months but damn it if the scale ruins everything. I feel stronger than I've felt in a long time but my scale continues to groan every time I stand on it. <br />
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So what does it come down to? It comes down to TIME. I have very little of my own time. I spend a lot of wonderful, happy time with my family. When my family is blissfully asleep and I am wide awake, I don't think about meal planning or prepping. I relax, read, drink wine, and play silly games on my computer. Then right as I'm falling asleep, I think to myself, "Shit, Melanie! You should have made lunch for tomorrow!" And then what happens in the morning. You guessed it, I have no time! Every millisecond of sleep I can squeeze into a night is being squeezed in. My wallet and my waistline have paid the price.<br />
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My solution? To eliminate the excuse of not having time. I decided about a month ago to purchase a Groupon for Personal Trainer Food. A week ago, when I realized my milk supply is dropping anyway, I finally ordered my food and decided to jump in. Pre-packaged, pre-cooked, frozen meals that I can pop right into the microwave. Easy peasy! Right?<br />
<img class="irc_mut" height="288" id="irc_mi" src="http://media.newschoolers.com/uploads/images/17/00/59/73/29/597329.jpeg" style="margin-top: 54px;" width="288" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943450984160730263.post-15244126287742444002013-10-01T05:58:00.001-07:002013-10-01T06:37:46.331-07:00FrustrationsI am in tears sitting in my driveway in the truck and I am so beyond frustrated. I feel like my hard work at the gym is for nothing. The scale hasn't moved. Not a freaking centimeter. My body fat is laughing at me too.<br />
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I have so many "poor me" blog posts drafted between shades of postpartum depression, lack of sleep, and being pissed off about my lack of progress. This is just getting ridiculous. Pregnancy is seriously the worst invention ever. Waking up at 4:30 to go to the gym is just as bad.<br />
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Edit (after a good cry and a hot shower... and a cup of coffee):<br />
Here's my problem. I have been working really hard at the gym and away from the gym. I've pushed through feeling sick and weak. I've pushed through being completely out of shape. I've lost inches. But none of those positives are making it through my head because of the number on the scale and it is so discouraging. In the past, this is the point where I stop. Completely and utterly give up. How am I going to push past my past and keep going when I don't <i>feel</i> like I'm getting results? <br />
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I feel like I've done it all... The <i>"I can't even lift my baby after working out"</i> workouts, the <i>"I can't close the recliner on the couch after working out"</i> workouts, the <i>"I can't stand up off the couch after working out"</i> workouts, the <i>"is my arm still connected to my body?"</i> workouts, the <i>"I feel great until I get home"</i> workouts, the <i>"maybe my pants will fit again after this workout"</i> workouts, etc. Right now, I just feel like it has been for nothing and that is such an unhealthy thought process! Urgh... so frustrated.</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943450984160730263.post-87281893367589727882013-08-28T08:14:00.001-07:002013-08-28T08:14:30.251-07:00Flukes and why they are awesome!The baby slept for 8 hours last night! Oh. My. God. Uh-may-zing.<div><br></div><div>She woke up, ate for 40 minutes, and fell right back to sleep! Oh. My. God. In-cre-di-ble.</div><div><br></div><div>Is this a fluke? Probably. Will I pay for it later? Most likely. Am I enjoying my breakfast and coffee alone and in complete, utter silence for the first time in 10 weeks? Abso-freakin-lutely!</div><div><br></div><div>On another note, serious blog posts are coming, they are just in draft mode AKA "everytime I sit to write, the baby screams" mode. :)</div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943450984160730263.post-52997109949481333702013-08-10T16:53:00.004-07:002013-08-10T16:54:33.937-07:00Here we go again! ** disclaimer: I wrote this a few days ago and forgot to press publish **<br />
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Alright people! I did it again, I braved a workout studio with my check book and committed to being a sore, cranky mess of a woman.<br />
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Last week on Thursday, I went to visit a workout studio that popped up Downtown that I had seen advertised at Starbucks when I was pregnant. If only this place had existed last year when I was getting into shape before! I would have saved a ton of time, money, and my car insurance rates wouldn't have gone up. The owner/trainer and I decided that instead of going the bootcamp route that it would be easier and more beneficial for me to do personal training sessions. It's more money but overall, I agreed. I can't feel a majority of my lower abdomen because I had a C-Section. It's hard to think of ways to exercise when there is no way of knowing if it's helping or hurting. I knew it would be tough for me to get in enough exercise if left to my own devices and now I am financially invested and it forces my husband to have "Daddy Daughter" time. (score 1 for Melanie!)<br />
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Yesterday (<i>Tuesday</i>) afternoon after a marathon nursing session and hardly any lunch, I headed Downtown for my first session and it was not pretty. I knew it was inevitable that I be measured and weighed but the only thing I could think to say during the process was, "Fuck. Pregnancy truly is the worst invention ever."<i> (cue awkward laugh from the male trainer who really doesn't understand)</i> I mean seriously, can't you go and experience something without measuring your success (or failure)? Can't we cheat a little and do the measuring in a couple of weeks when I'm maybe down a couple of pounds? Pretty please? Can I have a false sense of security here?<br />
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I would like to mention that it probably was cheating that I squeezed my boobs into the size medium sports bra before the appointment. That had to have knocked a couple of inches off my chest measurement even if it didn't help the rest of my body!<br />
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The workout started with the rowing machine. A pretty cool invention that lulled me into thinking, "Hmmm.. this isn't so bad!" We then did the initial progress check to see where I am right now with pushups, situps, and burpies. I told my trainer, "Write down 1 in the pushup box and let's move on." He refused and made me do the pushups and I beat my goal of 1 by about 18. I didn't go as far down as I should have but that's what happens when you are weaksauce from being pregnant and getting lazy. Overall with the initial evaluation, I am really happy with myself and I'm in a good starting place.<br />
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Then I was thrown to the workout wolves and I had to work the battle rope. What is a battle rope you ask? It's a huge freaking rope on the floor that you have to wave around like an idiot while you simultaneously standing in a squatting position. I felt like I was working to become the world's strongest pirate (which would be cool... now that I think about it). Once I was done with that, I did some intervals and core work and ended up back on the rowing machine to end the workout. The reason I referred to the workout as "not so pretty" was because I got sick halfway through my intervals. I need to eat better before I go work my muscles to the max otherwise I will be a victim of poor planning for every single workout. Nursing takes a lot of calories and I kind of learned that the hard way!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.smarthealthandfitness.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/battleropes-image.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" class="mainImage" height="185" src="http://www.smarthealthandfitness.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2012/12/battleropes-image.jpg" style="height: 292px; width: 504px;" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Battle Rope Exercise</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What the Battle Rope will help me accomplish in the end...</td></tr>
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Another reason the workout was not so pretty was because afterwards, I fell on my face going to my car. I lost my balance stepping off the curb, rolled my right ankle, and smashed my left knee into the ground. I'm lucky I didn't break anything. My knee has a 6 inch long, 4 inch wide bruise. Yuck!<br />
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So back before Pregnancy when I was doing my original "get into freaking shape" routine, these were my stats:<br />
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<i><b>Remember this from Day 1, Post #1?</b></i><br />
<i>Number of Situps in 1 minute: 15<br />
Number of Pushups in 1 minute: 18 (modified, knees on the floor)<br />
Number of "Laps" in the parking lot in 7 minutes: 15<br />
Number of minutes of straight running before I needed to walk: 4 minutes
(half of what I do at home with the dog. Hello? Legs and Lungs? What
gives?)</i><br />
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<i>Well I have some new numbers for you and these shall be dubbed <b>Workout #30, Week 10, Post #41</b></i> <br />
<i>Number of Situps in 1 minute: 25</i><br />
<i>Number of Pushups in 1 minute: 36 (modified, knees on the floor)</i><br />
<i>Number of "Laps" in the parking lot in 7 minutes: 19</i><br />
<i>Number of minutes of straight running before I needed to walk: 7 minutes and still ready for more.</i><br />
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Here are my updated numbers:<br />
Number of Situps in 1 minute: 29 (these were modified to shoulder blades off the floor because of my c-section incision and lack of ab muscles. <b>Personal goal is to do 5 regular situps by my next progress check</b>)<br />
Number of Pushups in 1 minute: 19 (modified, knees on the floor)<br />
Number of Burpies in 1 minute: 10<br />
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<b>My weight you ask? 1*5. Haha! See what I did there? I censored it for your protection! </b><br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943450984160730263.post-58355697873448817122013-07-19T10:16:00.000-07:002013-07-19T10:16:46.070-07:00"Just you wait!"I'm sitting here enjoying a seemingly rare moment of complete calm. The baby is content, my husband is still asleep, the windows are open, birds are flying through my yard, and the dog is staring at me wondering why his life has changed so dramatically. Well dog, I feel the same way! <br />
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I'm a month into mommyhood and part of me can't believe how quickly it has gone and the other part of me wishes this stage it would move a little bit faster. Madelyn really is doing great, she's a much happier baby now that we've realized she wasn't getting enough food. And I'm a much happier Mama now that I'm sleeping better! I have had some anxiety and depression issues which was a HUGE shock to me but I'm seeing a counselor once a week which has helped. Luckily, I don't need medication at this point and talking/crying has really helped me also. I have to do homework between appointments that involves me writing down pleasant moments and unpleasant moments and how they make me FEEL. It's weird because I'm the same person but I feel so different.<br />
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I spent 38 weeks and 6 days being hazed and I'm finally a full fledged, albeit junior member, of the Mom Club. I spent most of that time hearing the phrase, "Just you wait!". Now that I'm a (junior) member of the Mom Club, that phrase takes on a completely different meaning. All the Moms around you know what the phrase means but until you are a Mom, you have no idea what the implications of "Just you wait!" really are and let me tell you, reality hurts... a lot.<br />
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My vent... just elaborate! Really and truly! You see a new, almost Mom on the street? Just grab her by the shoulders and tell her that it ain't pretty! Don't use the phrase, "just you wait!" because it means nothing... seriously. Pop the happy, blissful bubble and just tell the woman the truth. It's not rainbows and sunshine all the time. I mean, I wasn't ignorant but I wasn't fully prepared either. I wish someone had just burst my bubble and most importantly, I wish someone had forced me to really LISTEN.<br />
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<b>Pregnant Mom</b>: I'm exhausted. I just can't sleep, I'm so uncomfortable in bed, and I just can't wait to not be pregnant anymore!<br />
<b>Well Meaning, Well Seasoned Mom</b>: Just you wait!<br />
<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">What WMWSM meant to say</span>: </b>Listen girly, you will be tired the moment that baby hits open air. You don't even understand the level of exhaustion that you will encounter. Even if your child is the perfect angel that doesn't scream cry at 120 decibels, you will still be waking up every 2-3 hours in the middle of the night for marathon feeding sessions. You will still try to be wonder woman the first week or so and not take everyone's advice to sleep when the baby sleeps. And you think you are uncomfortable now? Trying sleeping on your stomach with a c-section scar and engorged boobs, that's a whole new level of fun. <i>(Seriously, sleep when the baby sleeps. Seriously. <b>Seriously.</b>)</i><br />
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<b>Pregnant Mom</b>: I can't wait to meet this baby and stop getting kicked and and I just can't wait to not be pregnant anymore! (insert other "joys" of being pregnant here)<br />
<b>Well Meaning, Well Seasoned Mom</b>: Just you wait!<br />
<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">What WMWSM meant to say</span>: </b>Um, you will still get kicked. Not to mention you will get scratched, hit, screamed at, and bitten by a milk monster. <br />
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<b>Pregnant Mom</b>: Oh, we bought a crib and that is what the baby will sleep in from day one.<br />
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<b>Well Meaning, Well Seasoned Mom</b>: Just you wait!<br />
<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">What WMWSM meant to say</span>: </b>Using the crib you say? Ok, that's a wonderful dream.<b><b> </b> </b>See comments in regards to exhaustion. That baby will end up falling asleep wherever s/he is most comfortable and sometimes that will be in your arms while you lay in bed. You will be so exhausted that you will fall asleep too!<b><i> </i></b><i>(We bought the crib with the intentions of using it right away but we were gifted a family heirloom bassinet and were told to use it. It has been a life saver but the baby still falls asleep in bed with us. And I kind of like it.)</i><br /><br />
<b>Pregnant Mom</b>: I'll be happy to get my body back after I have the baby.<br />
<b>Well Meaning, Well Seasoned Mom</b>: Just you wait!<br />
<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">What WMWSM meant to say</span>: </b>Ha! You'll get a body back, it just won't be the one you are expecting! And yes, it will now be ALL YOURS. <i>(I lost 25 of the 35 pounds within 3 days of Madelyn being born but between breastfeeding, attempting to sleep, and attempting to stay awake, I have had no time to do much of anything. Intentions aside, shit just got real and I feel screwed.)</i><br /><br />
<b>Pregnant Mom</b>: These clothes are so cute, the baby will be so cute when s/he wears them!<br />
<b>Well Meaning, Well Seasoned Mom</b>: Just you wait!<br />
<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">What WMWSM meant to say</span>: </b>Good luck getting that onesie over the baby's head at three in the morning after s/he shit their way out of the first onesie. I know I bought you that onesie but that doesn't mean I'm not secretly laughing at the torture I've just inflicted on you. You're welcome. <i>(I am overwhelmed by the amount of clothes we've received and prefer to keep the baby naked in just her diaper though buttons and zippers are my friends. And I doubt anyone buys your baby clothes with evil intentions though now I feel bad about all the "horrible" outfits I've purchased for the children of friends over the years. I'm so incredibly sorry.)</i><br />
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<b>Pregnant Mom</b>: My husband will be such a great Dad.<br />
<b>Well Meaning, Well Seasoned Mom</b>: Just you wait!<br />
<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">What WMWSM meant to say</span>: </b>Yes, your husband will probably be a great Dad. But he'll also be great at handing off the baby when things get rough. Just make sure you return the favor. <br />
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<b>Pregnant Mom</b>: Oh I definitely need __(insert random baby item here)__.<br />
<b>Well Meaning, Well Seasoned Mom</b>: Just you wait!<br />
<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">What WMWSM meant to say</span>: </b>You won't need it and you will find it again in a year, buried at the back of the closet.<br />
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<b>Pregnant Mom</b>: Oh I definitely don't need __(insert random baby item here)__.<br />
<b>Well Meaning, Well Seasoned Mom</b>: Just you wait!<br />
<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">What WMWSM meant to say</span>: </b>Oh, you really should get that. It will save your life.<br />
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<b>Pregnant Mom</b>:I won't be that Mom that has problems with __(insert baby issue here)__.<br />
<b>Well Meaning, Well Seasoned Mom</b>: Just you wait!<br />
<b><span style="color: #cc0000;">What WMWSM meant to say</span>: </b>Oh, yes you will. Murphy's Law. You said it, it will now happen.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943450984160730263.post-65343609300373013032013-07-07T08:27:00.001-07:002013-07-07T08:27:40.965-07:00Day 19: Sweet Freedom<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Miss Madelyn was born on 6/18 via planned but unscheduled C-Section at 10:01am. Basically, my water broke 8 days prior to my scheduled c-section and when I got to the hospital they thought I was joking. Uh no, the water that I leaked from the parking lot to the second floor reception desk is not a gag gift they sell at Spencers, ok? Three hours after we arrived, I was in recovery and by lunch, she had already met her Grandma. We were home on 6/20 with a healthy, loud baby who we love despite her feisty stubborness. Hank the wonder dog loves her too!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmUsYmCPFsnT2otBGnjvhLXHpOCFnxfpqWWT9ADSovNKGR8EnyaG0_TMldBHioJsuCxDJ2rh1E6rFKrySzJU07XeDmkrIk272btwpGABH27mdEI12Vef-opEzudm3STxTfGpItvWm6nOc5/s640/blogger-image-536962133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmUsYmCPFsnT2otBGnjvhLXHpOCFnxfpqWWT9ADSovNKGR8EnyaG0_TMldBHioJsuCxDJ2rh1E6rFKrySzJU07XeDmkrIk272btwpGABH27mdEI12Vef-opEzudm3STxTfGpItvWm6nOc5/s640/blogger-image-536962133.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh685uD1hjjtggM_3KTI40TOC7KNnjYHm_hBfXTCgjI2ZajZr4MAGVjxLrRcDJj6BltRH3NTWPsTJmMYPWnqtAKdfpSHuBOwZ_KL5pKesRpVQ-kpNxegplcvsVRXD0y2SRg-Gh-NpDh22Vh/s640/blogger-image-1405012638.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh685uD1hjjtggM_3KTI40TOC7KNnjYHm_hBfXTCgjI2ZajZr4MAGVjxLrRcDJj6BltRH3NTWPsTJmMYPWnqtAKdfpSHuBOwZ_KL5pKesRpVQ-kpNxegplcvsVRXD0y2SRg-Gh-NpDh22Vh/s640/blogger-image-1405012638.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">As of my first followup appointment, I am cleared for light cardio exercise. My shopping trips to Walmart, Target, and Babies R Us are definitely considered light cardio! BUT, I finally got out with my running shoes on and the dog in tow for Madelyn's first neighborhood walk. Definitely a feel good, successful moment! Feels wonderful to be "free".</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlc87wH8ROL8oZcRgQoqRY2YeBN6HWXas8z4H0k3WToZDRNnWpo4Wf9ktFpQUtzIpguGg-eb_1Tlv-SXhegBq-yIvHWm5k7rsH9S_qkblZNjE9ClOSX5Ej1agpaJenZ3SoKvKcykubdszO/s640/blogger-image--64037013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlc87wH8ROL8oZcRgQoqRY2YeBN6HWXas8z4H0k3WToZDRNnWpo4Wf9ktFpQUtzIpguGg-eb_1Tlv-SXhegBq-yIvHWm5k7rsH9S_qkblZNjE9ClOSX5Ej1agpaJenZ3SoKvKcykubdszO/s640/blogger-image--64037013.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">(Despite her age, Madelyn has a lot of control over her head. She chose the moment I snapped the camera to put her head at a strange angle to look around. Don't go nominating me for mother of the year just yet, I know how the head support works! :))</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943450984160730263.post-36551384983872646352013-06-15T20:22:00.000-07:002013-06-15T20:22:01.957-07:0011 days to go: Maternity Leave, Baking, and CraftingWell, I'm officially on Maternity Leave and have been since Thursday. I'm a little bummed because it appears that since I'm not having complications that I will not receive Maternity Leave pay until the baby is born, which is a load of crap. I'm 38 weeks pregnant, I don't think it's much to ask to have two weeks off prior to my due date. (I think I'm covered by some state benefits at this point but I'm still a little frustrated)<br />
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So I started off my maternity leave by having lunch with a few of my coworkers from my previous job. It was really great to see those ladies and enjoy some much needed Pho. I haven't eaten Pho since I started my new job so I was pretty excited. It felt like it had just been a few days since I saw everyone but I guess that is just a testament to the friendships and the type of people we all are. It was also cool to hear that the girl who took my place appreciates the time and effort I spent in training her. She said things are going well and she has me to thank for it, that was pretty cool. Regardless of whether or not things are peachy, the comment made my day!<br />
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I got home later and finished the Boppy Pillow Cover that I had already started a few days before. Part of my "nesting" has been to sew things by hand and this was no exception. I found a great, free pattern and it only cost me $6 to make the cover. Covers cost an arm and a leg and most of them aren't my style, so I took matters into my own hands! I'm decent at hand sewing but my next project will be an absolute BEAST (I'm making the baby her first horse!). <br />
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And today, after the house was already warm enough for the AC to kick on, I decided to bake. I have an over abundance of squash in my garden this year and decided to make Zucchini Bread. I found a recipe on Pinterest and went for it!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Start with all the ingredients, a laptop, and a stand mixer.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Start the task of slicing and grating a 7 pound zucchini.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mix the ingredients. Add zucchinis and mix some more.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Split the mixture between two pans, cross your fingers, and put them in the oven for an hour.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Administer the toothpick test and remove from the oven.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Remove from pans, take a photo, instagram said photo, and EAT.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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I have never had luck making bread so I'm happy with the outcome of this little Pinterest inspired product. Not to mention, my husband went back for seconds (whoa!).</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943450984160730263.post-19030385077115634292013-06-03T21:33:00.001-07:002013-06-03T21:33:26.258-07:00Pseudo Juneathon!How do you knock out an insomnia ridden pregnant lady? You take her SHOPPING. For serious. (This was my Juneathon activity for two days in a row... believe me, it counts!)<br />
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My Mom and I had a marathon weekend of returning/exchanging baby stuff, shopping for more baby stuff, setting up baby stuff, and I must not forget eating and going to the movies. I received so many clothes at my two baby showers that we were bursting at the seams. To be honest, we still have so many clothes that the closet isn't equipped to hold all of them. It's ridiculous. And scary. And completely unnecessary (but much appreciated!).<br />
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Good news is that the nursery is basically done. I have a few more things that I need to do and a bunch of things that I want to do but lack the energy to complete. I decided on a Grey, Purple, and White color scheme with a Whale theme. I found a really cute fabric pattern with whales and suns so I've incorporated a you are my sunshine type theme in there as well.<br />
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And outside of the pregnancy realm, my garden is doing really well!</div>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943450984160730263.post-53206680895866054882013-06-01T07:27:00.001-07:002013-06-01T07:27:30.923-07:0025 Days to go: Turn little baby, turn!Well, I had my 36 week appointment yesterday and it included a position ultrasound. The baby is breech and my doctor is already talking about a c-section. Not excited. If it happens, so be it but I still don't have to be excited about it!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943450984160730263.post-45612403725713056822013-05-27T09:44:00.001-07:002013-05-27T09:44:10.416-07:0030 days to go: Cheese Omelette with Goldfish Crackers and SalsaYes, I am currently eating a Cheese Omelette with Goldfish Crackers and Salsa. The goldfish crackers were not there by design, I just saw them in the cabinet and decided that a handful would be a good addition to the omelette. Welcome to pregnancy, folks!<br />
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I'm really happy to still be working and keeping myself busy during the day. With my previous job, I would have been off weeks ago due to utter exhaustion and an inability to lift heavy objects (and an inability for that employer to keep me off the warehouse floor). I do however, have to watch my accounts get transitioned to our new employees and I have to train them. The changes are permanent so when I get back it will be like I'm a newbie again because I'll have to learn new accounts. Luckily, I won't need to relearn how to do my job. In general, things are going well but my customers are bummed to lose me. One of them even sent me a handmade baby blanket. How awesome is that? A woman who I have never met in person spent precious hours of free time on a baby blanket for Miss Baby D. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8OwZAH0OGt2mop5gzp5apWtRTBQdL59odi0rLpi8vSY27ywunPO5ZRZ5Ed92ucxjhNERXNX7AhEG0NRWSFLUYh7V7bbUxfbtYEcvr_rR9NAbmZjSkHo8owYXzVI2aBUSUgsqRV25-3GaD/s1600/belly+progression+copy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="187" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8OwZAH0OGt2mop5gzp5apWtRTBQdL59odi0rLpi8vSY27ywunPO5ZRZ5Ed92ucxjhNERXNX7AhEG0NRWSFLUYh7V7bbUxfbtYEcvr_rR9NAbmZjSkHo8owYXzVI2aBUSUgsqRV25-3GaD/s640/belly+progression+copy.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Posting my belly progression... because I can! </td></tr>
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Given my recent activities, I have almost changed my blog title from The Melanie Report to one of these titles:<br />
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Been There. Read That.<br />
Babies Love Doughnuts (...so go get me an f'ing doughnut!)<br />
Yes, I am Gigantic. (and other comments received by complete strangers)<br />
Eating Watermelon Like a Boss<br />
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Though, I decided for the time being that The Melanie Report should continue to work out and I can't let Pregnancy Hormones rule my life. (Ha! That's a load of BS *incaseyoudidntknow*) And just so you know, my husband has not been sent out on a midnight grocery shopping trip, has not suffered from moments of Pregzilla-ness, and has, in general, had it so easy. Movies lie. There, I said it! Now I might just send him to Starbucks to get me a coffee... <br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943450984160730263.post-55604537122244313272013-05-15T20:53:00.001-07:002013-05-15T20:53:54.175-07:0041 ish days to go: My ankles have disappearedAlmost in the home stretch! I'm defining home stretch as the final 30 days of my pregnancy. Who knows, I could be in the home stretch <i>right now</i>. <br />
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I don't really have much to say other than I'm tired, I can't sleep longer than 2 hours, my fingers are swollen, my ankles and toes are swollen, and my eyes are dry. It's been in the 90's for the last few days and that is the root cause for most of my problems. I don't do heat well anyway but pregnant... it's like living in the Father of the Bride 2 where two air conditioners are required.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943450984160730263.post-61009821846481690572013-04-27T12:40:00.003-07:002013-04-27T12:40:43.379-07:00T Minus 60 Days!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg2ZpMpSUKv1VuqpKkjxYdGcDtgDO4peWRrWtaKi10YzL46OCENDE4GM-OGvGCUcPvtjPfrzHYBKWpwOk0Ghqd9H8ROlRjIC3uHxv3_B_j_J_ANyXpbXbK2t53u9JiGknoHlFDfWLKnPpn/s1600/934794_10100100623122561_1104259201_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg2ZpMpSUKv1VuqpKkjxYdGcDtgDO4peWRrWtaKi10YzL46OCENDE4GM-OGvGCUcPvtjPfrzHYBKWpwOk0Ghqd9H8ROlRjIC3uHxv3_B_j_J_ANyXpbXbK2t53u9JiGknoHlFDfWLKnPpn/s320/934794_10100100623122561_1104259201_n.jpg" width="228" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">And there it is... the baby BELLY! :)</td></tr>
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I have 60 days left in my pregnancy and it really seems like just yesterday that we even found out! I guess this is life, you get older and time passes much quicker. What I would have given to speed through high school in the same way that I have sped through the last few years.</div>
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I've received a lot of compliments about how I'm handling my pregnancy. Apparently somethings are a huge topic of discussion amongst the people I see daily: my lack of complaining at work, lack of time off from work, ability to remain active, and most importantly, I remain level headed. The funny thing is that <i>I can hear my inner monologue and no one else can</i>. I am to the point where I am chipper for a few hours and exhausted the rest of the day. I'm snapping at people and have less of a filter when I'm interacting with people. I'm staying active only because I have a fear of gaining 50 pounds and because the bathroom is not close to my desk. I guess I'm just putting up a good front (and that is a great thing)!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoECvtVQ4TxR7Hz8L-bOoqT2TVs6vk5-Tqpla2lSNHVFxYrNKNrg5_nFwhZ51he-4FxcK-mZIBT6X8tuETJH69utKMEEbQi8_8NDHO5-8DKg-vCzRNswGBYDMo3mb8JWqZ2_xG25GG8TGp/s1600/nononohaiku.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoECvtVQ4TxR7Hz8L-bOoqT2TVs6vk5-Tqpla2lSNHVFxYrNKNrg5_nFwhZ51he-4FxcK-mZIBT6X8tuETJH69utKMEEbQi8_8NDHO5-8DKg-vCzRNswGBYDMo3mb8JWqZ2_xG25GG8TGp/s400/nononohaiku.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is how I feel on weekdays but ask me to get up at 6AM on a weekend and my body is all for it!</td></tr>
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So, because I can, here is my list of 10 selfish things that I can't wait to do:</div>
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1. Go for a Run (more importantly run Tinkerbell in January!)<br />
2. Drink a Glass of Red Wine...<br />
3. ... while eating Sushi<br />
4. Get off the couch without thinking, <i>"How am I going to do this?"</i><br />
5. Sleep without needing to pee every hour<br />
6. Wear high heels without my feet swelling<br />
7. Breathe through my nose without smelling the soap in my neighbor's shower (or my coworkers or the food that is eight miles away, etc.)<br />
8. Drink coffee without feeling guilty<br />
9. Vacuum without getting winded<br />
10. Make it through the day without having a moodswing or a heartburn attack<br />
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My husband, by the way, is either getting advice from women he works
with, reading a book for expectant Dads, or is just an exceptionally
amazing man. I have my suspicions but generally just think he's a pretty
cool guy. The other day, while gazing at my bare belly (or bear belly),
I said, "I wish I had realized ALL the things that came with
pregnancy." So, I start listing the things that are bugging me and at
the end of my ramblings he says, "Well, don't forget the baby. That
comes with pregnancy too and that's pretty cool." *insert a kiss on the
cheek and a smile* Well geez, when you put it THAT way. At first I was
like, wow... I'm a horrible person for complaining but then I just
counted my blessings. I'm glad I have someone who can put me in my place
while making me feel a thousand times better at the same time. <br />
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And now, my sappy list of things I can't wait to do with Miss Baby D because my moments of selfishness will be fleeting:<br />
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1. Hear her laugh for the first time<br />
2. Read her my favorite book - But No Elephants<br />
3. Realize in her first moment of girl rebellion that she doesn't like my favorite book and decides to pick her own <br />
4. Watch her wrap her Dad around her little fingers<br />
5. Teach her how to walk the dog, even if she is still only crawling<br />
6. Sing to her, sing together<br />
7. Arts & Crafts time (oh newborn baby feet!)<br />
8. Take pictures that will embarrass her later in life<br />
9. Become well acquainted with the stroller and take lots of walks<br />
10. Teach her the messiest way to eat SpaghettiUnknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943450984160730263.post-63081510227504858822013-03-23T20:07:00.000-07:002013-03-23T20:07:16.991-07:00Time flies when you're pregnant/exhausted/hungry/thirstyFirst things first... I got an apology phone call from that store. The
woman was so disgusted with the situation that she said she had to
figure out the appropriate response and had no idea how to apologize in a
way that would be completely sincere. She said, "I bet offering you a
gift card to our store wouldn't do much good, huh?" I told her I didn't
need to be paid off, I just wanted a personal apology. So I got what I
asked for and I'm OK with that. No, I don't have the intention of
posting the store's name on the internet. If I hadn't received a
response, I would be tagging up their Facebook page like crazy. I just
don't have it in me to ruin a store's reputation because of one bad
employee.<br />
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In just a few days, I will officially be in the final trimester of my pregnancy! Holy shit, where did the time go?<br />
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These are my last ultrasound photos from the beginning of March... Miss Baby D is yawning (or maybe already screaming?) on the left and smiling and dancing on the right. Geez, the end of June will be here before I know it!<br />
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I've had a great pregnancy thus far. The only problem has been that I get so sore when I am active. So the running hobby is on hiatus though I'm dying to run the Santa Rosa Half Marathon in August (this is so not happening, by the way). The swag this year is awesome and includes a bottle of wine... oh well! I WILL be signing up for the Tinkerbell Half in January. It's not just running or walking that gets me sore. I was gardening for a couple hours the other day and was completely spent. But then again, sitting the wrong way on the couch will do me in sometimes. Like the day I spent all afternoon sewing stuffed animals for the nursery, I was sorer than I was after finishing my last half marathon. But at least the stuffed animals are cute! I'm planning to make a crib mobile so I was practicing in big sizes first...</div>
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I had to go in today to take get my blood drawn as part of the 1 hour Glucose Tolerance Test. The nurse looked at me as she handed me my fruit punch glucose drink and said, "Are you sure you aren't doing this too early? Usually women have to be at least 24 weeks before they get this order." That made me feel good considering the shit I went through last week. I also had a chance to chat it up with a bunch of pregnant ladies in the waiting room who were all there for the same kind of blood work. The glucose drink wasn't bad but after about 30 minutes, the baby was practicing karate moves and within 40 minutes, I was dizzy, faint, clammy, shaky, and nauseous. I had to go to the window and ask the nurse to get me water. Before she looked at my face, she told me the water fountain was down the hall. Once she took a good look at my face, she rushed down the hall to get me water. By the time my blood was drawn, I was feeling much better. Apparently, this type of reaction happens often but geez... if I had passed out BEFORE getting my blood drawn, it would give my family more reasons to make fun of me for my hospital-phobia. :)</div>
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My boss told me about a month ago, "Just wait until you start nesting!" and I couldn't help but respond with, "I think I already am!" I know nothing about the nesting process but I know that I am definitely in "decorating" mode. I bought an adorable, custom quilt for the nursery and I've already started buying other decor and obsessing over details (what colors go well with purple and grey? do I have enough room to walk over there? did I ask for enough hangers?) plus I've been bossing my husband around about cleaning the house. My husband is really great at cleaning but usually only does it when HE feels like it. I haven't just been decorating the baby's room, I've also been trying to decorate the rest of our house. I gotta take it slow so my husband can adjust to not having the white walls that he loves so much!</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943450984160730263.post-8820153963647748762013-03-20T22:12:00.000-07:002013-03-20T22:12:06.789-07:00Misadventures of a Pregnant LadyDear (Store Name that I'm not going to mention right now),<br />
<br />
I am writing today to tell you about a recent experience in your Fresno, California store. I could just tell you that I am "highly dissatisfied" or that the store's customer service was lacking but I don't think that would quite cover my feelings. <br />
<br />
I am in the sixth month of my first pregnancy and I am extremely aware of the new addition to my midsection (not to mention the additions to my thighs, arms, face, and chest). I'm desperately clinging to my pre pregnancy wardrobe and I don't want to be stuck wearing only maternity clothes. I walked into your store on Saturday because I saw a dress in the window that I instantly loved and was hopeful that it would be "the one".<br />
<br />
The young woman at the counter gave me a once over as I asked her where the dress was on display in the store and smiled as she said, "I'm sorry but I don't think we have your size." After I asked again, she started leading me in the right direction but not before she added the additional comment, "I already told you, we don't have a size to fit your fat ass." Not only did I mention that I heard her but I also let her know that I am 6 months pregnant and that my size is none of her concern. What was her snarky response, you ask? "Well, that is no excuse to let yourself go!"<br />
<br />
Man or woman, pregnant or not pregnant, plus sized or model thin, no retail store customer service employee has the right to judge a customer based on his or her size. It is absolutely unacceptable and uncouth. The lack of empathy that I received when I spoke to the manager of the store was equally as disturbing. I'm not a size two or a four, I'm a pregnant woman who is a respectable size 10. A size, by the way, that you do happen to carry in your store and it is not the largest size that you carry. I could have easily decided on my own whether or not my size was available on the rack. I could have easily tried on the dress and decided in the dressing room that it was cuter on the rack than on my body. It should have been my decision to make, not your employee's.<br />
<br />
I'm pregnant with a little girl and it is treatment like this that makes me scared out of my mind to find a way to raise her to be confident with herself despite the callousness of others. How can I tell my daughter that the only opinion that matters is her own when a situation like this has caused me to question my own self confidence? Maybe before your employee opens her mouth to put down a customer, she should realize that your company profile advertises that you design and carry clothes to enhance a woman's confidence, to assist a woman in being captivating. Don't you think that her customer service focus should be based on that rather than practically turning someone away who is apparently a fat ass who has let herself go? <br />
<br />
Thank you for your time. I hope to hear from you in regards to an apology in the near future.<br />
<br />-----<br />
<br />
Seriously? I should have never needed to write that email to ANYONE. But the sad truth is that I did. And do you know what? I walked into a maternity store less than an hour later and almost started crying in the dressing room because "nothing fit right" and because I "was too big for everything". I was in desperate need of shirts because the belly requires MUCH longer t-shirts. (I found this out the hard way when I realized I was flashing the top of my maternity jeans to unsuspecting coworkers) Out of desperation, I bought t-shirts and tank tops and went home cursing humanity and stuffing my face with Chipotle. When I put one of the shirts on yesterday, I was so happy with how it looked and how it fit. I should have waited to go shopping until I felt better!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ixV6qLba2q3Yx_2zv_El_l_77hrAAV-0ir-v9wi0BMlY8-TM2KcEt82p9MTTuGhWdsmlEOzO8okaZBSZB_je6IpVZvEHy6xBM-EkvR7nOANjeMJit1-h9xW7U3FWYZwzIb2wniwxrZ8H/s1600/005.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4ixV6qLba2q3Yx_2zv_El_l_77hrAAV-0ir-v9wi0BMlY8-TM2KcEt82p9MTTuGhWdsmlEOzO8okaZBSZB_je6IpVZvEHy6xBM-EkvR7nOANjeMJit1-h9xW7U3FWYZwzIb2wniwxrZ8H/s320/005.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It's obvious... I've totally let myself go. Oh well, Chipotle still sounds good for dinner.</td></tr>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943450984160730263.post-19618123318305021552013-02-13T22:11:00.001-08:002013-02-13T22:11:19.576-08:00Excuses, Reasons, and/or other BSI've spent a lot of time being irritated with <b>myself</b>. This seems
completely backwards to me right now but I guess it deserves an
explanation. Did you know that pregnancy can cause self esteem issues? I
look and feel great for being 21 weeks pregnant and deep in my brain
and soul, I know that I've been really lucky. I've only gained about 14
pounds, I still fit into my pre-pregnancy jeans, and I've been able to
easily maintain a healthy diet. But then I have days like today where I
feel like I've eaten the same number of calories as my 1200 pound
performance horse (in case you weren't aware, that is a lot of
calories). It's days like today where I just feel... out of control. I feel like I'm suffering from fear of weight gain even though the end result will be amazing. I can look in the mirror in the morning and be completely at ease and at night, I feel horrified by the changes I see. It's completely and utterly ridiculous and I just need to stop. I need to channel the girl from this <a href="http://melaniereport.blogspot.com/2012/06/if-found-pick-up-and-drag-across-finish.html" target="_blank">blog post of mine</a> from back in June. I need to get it through my skull that this isn't permanent and that if properly motivated, I know I can bounce back with no problems.<br />
<br />
I'm only a celebrity in my own mind and I doubt anyone is judging me but if it weren't for all the negative shit you read about pregnancy weight gain and such, I don't think I would feel this way. The bullying of women who are gaining weight to support a life just has to stop. Can I get an amen? A what-what? A hoot? A holler? Maybe just a "yeah, ok, sure Melanie!"?<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXl_2xT5IzbnMG7nA_jCuT2XzyJjP5sHajx-AicaDZWtEBtb0dx4umFqQ06_ff5mA-7BEEGXnj2ijnze9QnKre_TrRMSwDafG0f1Tlo1iIafh5CH7IDmt9RDQbq24NyNVY4uMP60yqVgTX/s1600/a881274a0fe4fc06b4498bf821c93a45.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="224" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXl_2xT5IzbnMG7nA_jCuT2XzyJjP5sHajx-AicaDZWtEBtb0dx4umFqQ06_ff5mA-7BEEGXnj2ijnze9QnKre_TrRMSwDafG0f1Tlo1iIafh5CH7IDmt9RDQbq24NyNVY4uMP60yqVgTX/s320/a881274a0fe4fc06b4498bf821c93a45.png" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I haven't been to crazy on Facebook... though I did admit to craving Pickles & Mac n Cheese...</td></tr>
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In other news, I am determined to be the best darn coworker that a girl can be. My three immediate coworkers all decided to go on a diet together and I vowed to be a damn supportive coworker despite my pregnancy and my own image issues. Unlike my peers around this time last year, I was determined to do the little things that would help my coworkers succeed. I planned to bring my own lunches, not flaunt cake or ideas for potlucks, and help them through tough cravings. I've been there, I've done that, and I feel like I could be helpful. Yeah, that's all well and fine until the diet ends before it even really starts.<br />
<br />
"And this is why I've gained 20 pounds." "You guys are a bad
influence." "Now I feel like a big french fry." "I only had water to
drink, that has to make it a little bit better." "Now I feel really
sick."<br />
<br />
Gaahhh. Been there, said that! No one can hold
you back from making a change if you really want to make one. A quote I
posted slightly over a year ago was, "The longest journey begins with a
small step taken by a brave person." (<i>geez, Melanie! Listen to yourself and follow your own freakin' advice! Holy crap, woman!</i>)<br /><br />
I'm not judging them, really I'm not. It's just that I see myself in all of them. Excuses, Reasons, and a bunch of BS. This is the fourth diet attempt they have started so it's hard for me to not shake some sense and reason into them. It's hard for me to not preach about how great it feels to accomplish the overall goal. It's hard for me to see them fail because once they make the right changes for their own body and lifestyle, it is SO EASY to finish and change for the better.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0xgqz7sHMpe7-joP28635FcOSmr9lDSt3BGvoFgnZk6q6XoaDQ0ff9lpSK2IPrY5iNF1zFAaBBd6vM_um2KvF6uXQDZOcOP1CKeIHbhmNtDA4ou7yPfhD8N8hric6eMF2hPaW1A8vjNq3/s1600/enjoy-cake-birthday-ecard-someecards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="178" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0xgqz7sHMpe7-joP28635FcOSmr9lDSt3BGvoFgnZk6q6XoaDQ0ff9lpSK2IPrY5iNF1zFAaBBd6vM_um2KvF6uXQDZOcOP1CKeIHbhmNtDA4ou7yPfhD8N8hric6eMF2hPaW1A8vjNq3/s320/enjoy-cake-birthday-ecard-someecards.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This is how I feel right now... but it's not true. I'm only judging myself!</td></tr>
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943450984160730263.post-55018245331841693152013-02-09T17:11:00.000-08:002013-02-09T17:11:43.999-08:00Meet Baby D!Little <span style="color: #d5a6bd;"><b>MISS</b></span> Baby D, to be exact! <br />
<br />
This ultrasound was the single coolest, most life affirming event that I have ever experienced. I was with my husband and our parents, watching Miss D float and kick around on a big screen TV that was mounted on the wall. She was being shy and was perfectly content to stay in her own little corner.<br />
<br />
So, without further ado, here she is! (And no, I'm not flaunting her girl parts on the internet. I'm determined not to be an embarrassing Mom... yet.)<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmjdpRhb1Y8pD3w31q6rrpkTCYu5D8fYBibPFdwXbtoJZiTL_Fruwjq4fVdPQSVW1BJ3Zu18tk2Jekdg8rgopAHItsl-3L1duwmRMPvTU-Bj2cdXlaKoOva-99Z7INAS4a7nyCuLJCu9Zy/s1600/babydhand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmjdpRhb1Y8pD3w31q6rrpkTCYu5D8fYBibPFdwXbtoJZiTL_Fruwjq4fVdPQSVW1BJ3Zu18tk2Jekdg8rgopAHItsl-3L1duwmRMPvTU-Bj2cdXlaKoOva-99Z7INAS4a7nyCuLJCu9Zy/s320/babydhand.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Thumbs up!</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5hwIFv3ttQOI3M-jdYgnaX7bZf-55VEJztGxLrhH6tsqHCz-SU5z0CubBBWY-RRgcXdzIyxcGA7vrU8NqnK2AE0PZQxijm9netspfqW0UJuPwJqHd-ycqb762EkyKevAnldvFyvHVlnHu/s1600/babydface.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5hwIFv3ttQOI3M-jdYgnaX7bZf-55VEJztGxLrhH6tsqHCz-SU5z0CubBBWY-RRgcXdzIyxcGA7vrU8NqnK2AE0PZQxijm9netspfqW0UJuPwJqHd-ycqb762EkyKevAnldvFyvHVlnHu/s320/babydface.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Her face is on the left hand side and her hand is right above her chin. You can also see her heart!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJRbfUmb_q20UFxEnFrY8Wi30uDaB14N8HFCwiYAGPvFYPh5aGeofB3-ltEhOjw-IJr_MsqU0IK-n4D0Vjv0hgdJMWIioiZmc-lwLd9n0MNWwUy4UTKMDJyskmyI394YVQOPX1hDzsvmmu/s1600/babydleg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJRbfUmb_q20UFxEnFrY8Wi30uDaB14N8HFCwiYAGPvFYPh5aGeofB3-ltEhOjw-IJr_MsqU0IK-n4D0Vjv0hgdJMWIioiZmc-lwLd9n0MNWwUy4UTKMDJyskmyI394YVQOPX1hDzsvmmu/s320/babydleg.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Her "fantastic and strong" legs (words from the ultrasound tech)</td></tr>
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Next challenge, creating a beautiful, non-pink nursery for my little girl. Challenge Accepted!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943450984160730263.post-19450241015821779592013-02-06T21:36:00.003-08:002013-02-06T21:36:45.594-08:00It's almost time...... to find out if we're having a boy or a girl!<br />
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I was browsing Pinterest for gender reveal ideas and found something similar to this and went with it! I admit it, I had a little bit too much fun...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2nnEd08Q6ov1hLy6QmhPFaQ3XagLP80Drjnh6ZtfGjHbx3tgVbQBfgo6Wp3lfQV61pfkO7T_nctrZW3h8-uyvOhajWypAPshjdhXC2bID8W9lpF0ZGNXw4aXL2_XRyF6gag6eLv2ZBsup/s1600/oldwivestales.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2nnEd08Q6ov1hLy6QmhPFaQ3XagLP80Drjnh6ZtfGjHbx3tgVbQBfgo6Wp3lfQV61pfkO7T_nctrZW3h8-uyvOhajWypAPshjdhXC2bID8W9lpF0ZGNXw4aXL2_XRyF6gag6eLv2ZBsup/s640/oldwivestales.jpg" width="512" /></a></div>
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943450984160730263.post-76137755860062441902013-01-27T12:08:00.000-08:002013-01-27T12:08:07.169-08:00das Liebster Award-ness<div style="font-family: "Arial sans-serif"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;">So my buddy Jaime over at The Unlikely Competitor nominated me for the Liebster Award. <span style="font-size: small;">Don't you worry, I won<span style="font-size: small;">'t let this incredible honor get to <span style="font-size: small;">my head in any way<span style="font-size: small;">,</span> shape or form.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCJV4RnwHlPSD_QA_N91W8BEDuhiAoM-n3ks_4b_1DMGv6rdXpiQZR8Q8drTsQYkO-o-5XbNuf7FPUjVvBmxEzlqlOALeAvGd3nCynxEOSukY5gSolXHKPriG_UxsWQ6MZvD2i83oCW-RR/s1600/i-won1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCJV4RnwHlPSD_QA_N91W8BEDuhiAoM-n3ks_4b_1DMGv6rdXpiQZR8Q8drTsQYkO-o-5XbNuf7FPUjVvBmxEzlqlOALeAvGd3nCynxEOSukY5gSolXHKPriG_UxsWQ6MZvD2i83oCW-RR/s320/i-won1.jpg" width="299" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Errr... I mean...</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl7CLrew57O2__mhY_KZ0FOrzz-MB2cBDMu2GHDlEM88ydnWMyBMdbwMKCEfbvsvMiAkYOzO6fmzfQJO_XjYDHlmVVaQ5IaCShAIrjcRucksMVLZWS2ZDhz6UDX5-vMhw7pKa04grV5toc/s1600/Snoopy+Happy+Dance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgl7CLrew57O2__mhY_KZ0FOrzz-MB2cBDMu2GHDlEM88ydnWMyBMdbwMKCEfbvsvMiAkYOzO6fmzfQJO_XjYDHlmVVaQ5IaCShAIrjcRucksMVLZWS2ZDhz6UDX5-vMhw7pKa04grV5toc/s1600/Snoopy+Happy+Dance.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">Unfortunately, <span style="font-size: small;">I don't <span style="font-size: small;">read any blogs that fit the bill to <span style="font-size: small;">be nominated for the Liebster Award (see below) but I am going to participate in answering these really fun questions and then I'm going to create a list of 11 questions that any<span style="font-size: small;">one reading my blog <span style="font-size: small;">can feel free to answer at their l<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;">eisure</span>. Though, when I do come across a blog of incredible worth, I will make sure <span style="font-size: small;">to add a link to it and then reference this po<span style="font-size: small;">st. This is my solemn oath!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: blue;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: small;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: blue;"><b>"</b><b style="text-decoration: underline;">So what
is the Liebster Award?</b></span></span></div>
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
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<span style="color: blue; font-size: small;">The Liebster Award nomination goes to those bloggers
who have a following of less than 200 to promote other bloggers to comment and
share - even get to know each other! I think this is great, because it gives
you the potential to gather a larger following! If you get nominated, you
cannot nominate the person who nominated you (No tagbacks!).</span></div>
<span style="color: blue;"></span><br />
<div style="font-family: "Arial sans-serif"; line-height: 20px; margin: 0px; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><span style="color: blue;">The point of the Liebster Award is to answer questions,
tell 11 secrets about yourself, and nominate 11 other bloggers who fit the
criteria. Here it goes!<b>"</b></span></span></div>
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<b>1. If you could get on a plane and go anywhere, where would it be and why?</b><br />
Australia! First of all, I think the opportunity to sit on a plane for 14 hours or so would be amazing. Also, traveling "forward" in time and then "backwards" in time would be well worth the cost of the ticket.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1V4wglTOISv-N5f_wasxdxSTkdY9f9vv6yGDVzgHygD_h7vwe4m_dlNWcJdkzyCKHSCFaV88z_Rggb1dZSV8EojKMZVui72UMXc96UC9ztpOvv2d-vX-eHD7Wxm2VM1oZzn_nPJ58V_p7/s1600/1280_Remarkable+Rocks,+Flinders+Chase+National+Park,+Kangaroo+Island,+Australia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi1V4wglTOISv-N5f_wasxdxSTkdY9f9vv6yGDVzgHygD_h7vwe4m_dlNWcJdkzyCKHSCFaV88z_Rggb1dZSV8EojKMZVui72UMXc96UC9ztpOvv2d-vX-eHD7Wxm2VM1oZzn_nPJ58V_p7/s320/1280_Remarkable+Rocks,+Flinders+Chase+National+Park,+Kangaroo+Island,+Australia.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kangaroo Island</td></tr>
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But seriously, I've always wanted to go to Australia. There is a place in South Australia called Kangaroo Island and I would love to explore the cliffs, beaches, and the Shipwreck Trail. Seeing wild Kangaroos, outside of a zoo environment, would also be pretty amazing. (Yes, there are actually Kangaroos there!) I also want to tour the Sydney Opera House and see a show there, ANY show. <br />
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<b>2. What is one major thing you would like to accomplish in your life time?</b><br />
This is a tough one because I'm still young and feel like I still have so many things I want to accomplish (Masters Degree, have a baby, not take out a loan to pay for my child's education, etc.). But since I need to choose, I would like to write a book and publish it (self published or otherwise, doesn't matter to me) and actually have people enjoy it!<br />
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<b>3. What was your favorite class in high school or college and why?</b><br />
My English class, Senior Year of High School. I was lucky enough to be placed in an Arthurian Legends themed English class and I absolutely loved it. I was already obsessed with Marion Zimmer Bradley's Mists of Avalon so it was the perfect fit for me. We had to read all the standard books for Seniors but we got the added benefit of studying Arthurian Legend and having an AWESOME teacher. At the end of the year, we also got to go to England on a 10 day Arthurian Tour and it was an amazing experience. <br />
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<b>4. What is one thing that always makes you smile?</b><br />
My dog, Hank.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCNeN9G6C3Cwt3zN6vM6jzeMKUlymZ2t8N4AjJuZSISZRuxQvSp9Uexs-27-Z8sAauKPcI649oaObS3vB4OwEH6qDpwU3jSHk9f8UJATbvPtfkGWir5QJQ7OIzIfTKg765sefLf3J8T3cv/s1600/003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCNeN9G6C3Cwt3zN6vM6jzeMKUlymZ2t8N4AjJuZSISZRuxQvSp9Uexs-27-Z8sAauKPcI649oaObS3vB4OwEH6qDpwU3jSHk9f8UJATbvPtfkGWir5QJQ7OIzIfTKg765sefLf3J8T3cv/s320/003.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hank with his 3rd Birthday "Gift"</td></tr>
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<b>5. If you were going to try a new hobby, what would you try?</b><br />
Rock Climbing!<br />
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<b>6. What is your favorite kind of music?</b><br />
I absolutely love every type of music but I love discovering local Indie Rock bands before they hit the big time. You know, kinda like The Decemberists. (No, I'm not from Oregon but I did listen to the Decemberists before the were more well known)<br />
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<b>7. What is your favorite race and why? </b><br />
Out of the three races I've run, my favorite has been the California Classic in Fresno. The course was interesting, we ran through the zoo, and even though I swore, "never again" at the finish, I had a really good time. Other than running a Disney Race, I really want to do a Run Catalina Island race. Can't have Fresno be the most interesting course I've run!<br />
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<b>8. If you could live anywhere for a year where would it be?</b><br />
If living didn't require working, I would live in Greece. Preferably on the Peninsula somewhere but close enough to a city that if I wanted to do "city-style" exploring, I could. <br />
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<b>9. What made you start blogging? </b><br />
I blogged on Livejournal in High School. It started as a way to keep track of all the silly things that my friends and I said during the day as well as chronicling the trials and tribulations of High School. I went back and read some of my old entries and deleted the blog right after. Then I got back into blogging last year when I was attempting to make light of the fact that I needed to lose weight, badly. It has ended up helping me out more than I expected, plus it is fun to chronicle the "joys" of getting in shape.<br />
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<b>10. If you could meet a famous person, past or present, who would it be?</b><br />
If you knew me in high school, you knew that History class was my least favorite class. I did everything I could to get out of taking History classes, including taking a one night a week Junior College course my Junior year of high school. One semester, one day a week... AMAZING. Anyway, as an adult, I've found a new love of history. I don't have to take exams and remember exact dates and that's exactly how I like it!<br />
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Anyway, I think Anne Boleyn is such a tragic, misunderstood figure. I would love to meet her and just have a discussion with her about her life. <br />
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<b>11. What is something you have done that you are really proud of? </b><br />
Prior to May of last year, I would have said that completing my Bachelor's Degree in four years was my greatest accomplishment. Now, I can say that completing three half marathons has been my greatest accomplishment. I hated running prior to last year and could hardly run 30 seconds at a time when I started. Now, I can proudly say that prior to my pregnancy, running 5 miles at a time is a piece 'o cake! <br />
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<strong>11 fun facts about me:</strong><br />
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1. My favorite musical is The Music Man.<br />
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2. I play the Clarinet and Bass Clarinet.<br />
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3. I don't chew gum because the sound annoys me.<br />
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4. When I was 9, I trained my aunt's Pekingese to do agility.<br />
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5. I buy wine based on the awesomeness of the label and/or name.<br />
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6. My book as a kid was called But No Elephants and my favorite song was Rockin' Robin.<br />
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7. No matter how stupid or silly the episode is, I find great joy in watching America's Next Top Model. Don't tell anyone.<br />
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8. My favorite movies are The Goonies, The Sandlot, Hook, and Monty Python and the Holy Grail.<br />
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9. I have an irrational fear of spiders and if I see one above my bed, I can't sleep well for at least three days.<br />
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10. I love answering questions asked by song and confusing everyone around me.<br />
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11. In high school, I drove a train at a park in town and I can still repeat my script, word for word. "Welcome aboard the C.P. Huntington, Engine # 74...."<br />
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<strong>And now for 11 questions to those I've nominated (<span style="color: red;">Errr... will nominate in the future</span>):</strong><br />
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1. What made you start blogging? ( STOLEN! :))<br />
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2. What is your favorite book and your favorite quote from that book?<br />
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3. If you were given the chance to complete five of your bucket list activities this week, which ones would you choose and why?<br />
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4. What makes you happiest after a stressful day?<br />
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5. How would you be if you didn't know how old you are?<br />
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6. What do you do that makes you lose track of time? <br />
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7. Turn on your favorite music listening device. What is the next song? What is the most played song? What is the least played song?<br />
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8. Slippers or socks?<br />
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8. You can only have one picture displayed in your entire house. Post the picture that you would choose, no explanation required.<br />
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9. If you could go back in time, which era would you choose to visit?<br />
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10. What's your favorite meal?<br />
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11. Quick, what do you see when you look at this.... ?<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943450984160730263.post-79748962719709286772013-01-20T19:52:00.000-08:002013-01-20T19:52:15.293-08:00Introducing... the barely there baby belly!I would like to preface this by saying I had to find the most form fitting pre-pregnancy shirt that I own and endure a 20 minute photo shoot with my Mom to find the right angle to prove that I actually have a belly. I can't lie, it was actually kind of fun and amusing to find the right wall in my house and argue with my Mom. She kept telling me to let my stomach go and push it out. What she didn't realize is that I am NOT holding in my stomach and I was letting go as much as I could. My husband was cracking up at us by the time we finished and even got the "honor" of picking the final "Facebook Approved" photo.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLPm3cxBzkMggZTauqOcAZYAiorErRiSl3W035TbUyEVfMnGHgOjPg6MUkuDK2Z4duplZeCElqMPRxbkdsUq34g2NzeMxidDS6dLPa_-tfSrmSKb5jzt5Uw8F-9qTYucp0neC_unMke-ua/s1600/015.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLPm3cxBzkMggZTauqOcAZYAiorErRiSl3W035TbUyEVfMnGHgOjPg6MUkuDK2Z4duplZeCElqMPRxbkdsUq34g2NzeMxidDS6dLPa_-tfSrmSKb5jzt5Uw8F-9qTYucp0neC_unMke-ua/s400/015.JPG" width="220" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">17.5 Week "Baby D Belly"</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943450984160730263.post-85707563006018207612013-01-13T17:11:00.000-08:002013-01-13T17:11:54.440-08:00Pickles and Macaroni & CheeseNo joke, pickles and mac & cheese are high on my cravings list. Luckily, I have no urges to mix the two together... my brain thinks that would be horrible. Baby D on the other hand is thinking really hard about considering the combo.<br />
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I had my most recent doctor's appointment on Friday. Baby's heartbeat is 153 BPM and quite literally sounds like a galloping horse. When I first heard the heartbeat at 12 weeks, it was much quieter and harder to find. It was neat to hear that first time but so much more life affirming this time around. It's pretty cool to hear the baby moving around and trying to get away from the doppler. I actually starting giggling (yes, like a small girl) during my appointment and it caused the baby to start moving like crazy AND I FELT THE MOVEMENT. Oh my goodness! It was, for lack of a better or more Melanie-esque word, freaking magical. MAG-I-CAL.<br />
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Downside of my 16 week appointment is that I feel like I've already gained so much weight. Honestly, I'm about 12 pounds up from my pre-pregnancy weight. Thank goodness I didn't lose weight from morning sickness because that would have been miserable. My doctor is not worried and says this is not the time for me to feel worried about my weight. One of my pregnancy books says that weight gain is gradual. Another website resource says I've gained an excess of six pounds based on "where I should be". My doctor disagrees with both and told me that I will see my weight "stair step" upwards and that I need to expect to gain 25-35 pounds. Her normally nice demeanor changed when she sternly told me, "Don't you dare listen to anyone but me on this matter." She then returned to normal and told me to *walk* at least 30 minutes a day and to consume 300-ish calories more than usual per day. She said my choice of freeze dried fruits and veggies were excellent (I think so too by the way... fat-free, low sugar, crispy, crunchy, yummy...mmmmm).<br />
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To make myself feel better, I have walked the dog for 40 minutes a day since that appointment. I have the energy and the motivation to do it, so I am taking advantage of that! My legs are definitely sore and the whole dynamic of exercising feels so... different. For instance, when I got home from my walk today, I could have eaten an entire pig. (Sorry, I just wasn't hungry enough to eat an entire cow, so pig was the next best animal choice.) I had crackers and a few snack sized pickles instead and felt much better. Then within minutes, I was already feeling the burn in my legs. Yes, I walked three miles... but really? Sigh... it's OK, it's just different. My running app told me that I went six miles instead of three (I've checked the route on Map My Run in the past) which is hilarious since I was done in less than 40 minutes. :) Either I've gotten WAY faster with pregnancy, my app is taking pity on me, or the app is malfunctioning. I'm going with the last one, just in case you couldn't guess.<br />
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<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943450984160730263.post-63564672763367592452012-12-30T20:09:00.000-08:002012-12-30T20:09:03.799-08:00Merry New Years! eerrrr... I think?Pregnancy is making me lose my mind AND my waist line. I feel like this little babe is draining me of IQ and energy, all at the same time! Up is down, left is right, and keyboards are for hand writing letters. It's a weird feeling!<br />
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Luckily, I am getting some of my energy back but I feel so bogged down from being pregnant, that I am much more content being lazy than productive. I'm already 14.5 weeks along and it seems kind of surreal still. We've seen the baby, heard the heartbeat, and can see all the outward signs of pregnancy but it still doesn't seem like it is really happening.<br />
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When I first started my blog back in January and I started the special diet, I had cravings for all types of foods. Multiply that by <b>200</b> and that's how I feel now. I had it so easy back then! <br />
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<b>Friend's Facebook Post: I could use some pho or thai curry for lunch.</b><br />
My response: So could I! *like post*<br />
My response to my sudden realization that I have no access to either food in my town: O_o<br />
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<b>Friend's Facebook Post: Just found a recipe for Scalloped Potatoes that looks BOMB.</b><br />
My response: Can you send that to me?<br />
My response to knowing I won't eat this anytime soon ANYWAY: :(<br />
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I've restarted my playing of The Sims 3 in the last couple of days (vacation + lack of motivation = day on the couch playing Sims 3) and food that my SIMS ARE EATING, appeal to me. Sigh... I will never win. :)<br />
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I just got an update email from the Santa Rosa Marathon (End of August of 2013) about their course updates and new offerings and I am so bummed that it is probably too soon after delivery for me to participate. Running while pregnant is safe and was approved by my doctor but I haven't done ANY since my half marathon in November. The most I feel capable of doing right now is walking and even that seems iffy. I cleaned up my garden for 15 minutes this afternoon and it made me sore! Such a change! <br />
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But the positives are these: In the next couple of weeks the baby will be able to hear me, in about a month we will know if the babe is a boy or a girl, and at some point in the very near future, my doctor expects that I may be able to feel the baby moving around. Amazing!<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943450984160730263.post-46525886929316325312012-12-15T15:37:00.002-08:002012-12-15T15:37:39.259-08:00Exciting News!I haven't been blogging but this time, I'm not going to apologize. I've been keeping a huge secret and it's finally gone public.<br />
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My husband and I are going to have a baby!(!!!!!!!!!)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP2pBe8yi50O69NiN74CWq8VtBBlXfWw5h0nLtOPtp-WAGyynxr9MBYZzXD7J1DJeMllFUThRUC6TQtgFv2ZQv387UBtC0ifsDcCaoyUvsGYpFDYIRk8TuSrt0pm2tO4ipFw-dhxFYXuCi/s1600/044c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="271" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP2pBe8yi50O69NiN74CWq8VtBBlXfWw5h0nLtOPtp-WAGyynxr9MBYZzXD7J1DJeMllFUThRUC6TQtgFv2ZQv387UBtC0ifsDcCaoyUvsGYpFDYIRk8TuSrt0pm2tO4ipFw-dhxFYXuCi/s400/044c.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our Baby Announcement Photo.. "Our Family is Growing by TWO FEET"</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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Basically, I've had two great things happen to me in a short amount of time. I have a great new job that I LOVE and now I have this little baby that I can't stop thinking about. It's been a wild ride and yes, I did my half marathon as a pregnant lady. I did know at the time and battled severe nausea and sickness the whole way but you know... I did it and now this little babe is an "official runner"!<br />
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I'll be blogging more now that I don't have to worry about letting my secret escape. :)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943450984160730263.post-18975235383898022582012-11-04T19:37:00.000-08:002012-11-04T20:22:36.426-08:00Another run in the books...I'm just now sitting down in my home away from home (the hotel in South San Francisco) and basically wishing I could curl up and sleep for three days straight. Who thought it was a good idea to have marathons on Sundays? Give us our day of rest, people! :) The time change also really screwed me up. I mean, it seriously messed with my brain. Not to mention, we had a doorbell ditcher stop by our house at 12:15AM/11:15PM last night. It set me on edge for about an hour and I just couldn't fall back to sleep. I woke up at 5AM ready to seize the day and strangle a door bell ditcher!<br />
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It has been a really long weekend and it feels like I've squeezed 48 hours into today. First, I went home early on Friday so I could drive to meet my new manager for the first time and get a five cent tour of the facility where I will be working. I really wanted to go to the Expo for the race on Friday night to save myself the miles but that just didn't happen. Once I got home, I stuffed my face with BBQ Pulled Pork and crashed.<br />
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On Saturday, I went to the Expo but I spent all morning reading and being unproductive. The Expo set up was obviously in favor of the vendors because the bib, goodie bag, and t-shirt pick ups were scattered all over the place. I really wasn't interested in any of the vendors but I stopped and looked at tech shirts with funny sayings on them for about 10 minutes. I almost caved and bought one that said, "Dear God, Please let there be someone behind me to read this!" That is what I'm thinking most of the time that I'm running, so it would have been perfect.<br />
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Being away from home and eating out for almost every meal has really hurt my training. I didn't stay well hydrated this past week and I feel really sluggish from my food choices even though I've been deliberately choosing healthy options (Grilled Veggie Paninis, Grilled Eggplant Sandwiches, Chicken Penne Pasta with Marinara, etc.). I just haven't been diligent with my training, which is really what it comes down to and I'm disappointed in myself because I could have and SHOULD have gotten a better time than I did.<br />
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The race itself was OK. I was signed up as a half marathon RUNNER but ended up walking a majority of the time I was on the course. I actually got knocked over by a man with a stroller at or around mile two and that pretty effectively ruined my running plan for the rest of the race. I'm OK but my knee took most of the pressure from that little episode. I'm just really lucky that the person next to me was able to keep me from falling all the way to the ground (and no, he didn't cushion my fall but he definitely caught me and pushed me back upright). The course was more hilly than I expected which helped me a lot in the downhill portion but really slowed me down on the uphill.<br />
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The finish area of the race was ridiculous. Finishers had to walk a ways to get to the "Finisher's Village" where we received sweatshirts and medals. The positive of the out of the way village was that the breakfast was plentiful/yummy and there were ice cream sundaes. I haven't taken part in the breakfast offerings at the last two races but this one was a necessity because I was starving. But after sitting down and scarfing my breakfast, I realized that I had to walk back to my car and I clocked it on my GPS as a full mile back. Not to mention, I had to guesstimate where I parked and cross my fingers that I picked the right section of the parking lot. Luckily, I did pick the right area on the first try so I didn't have to torture myself further. <br />
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I got to the finish line at 3 hours and 22 minutes, which is my slowest and most disappointing time to date. Considering how much I walked, it is actually a good time but it's just not where I wanted to be as my goal was to be below three hours. On a positive note, I'm alive and I didn't require medical attention at any point before, during, or after the race and I left in my own vehicle. :)<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5943450984160730263.post-75686780041405293982012-10-23T17:49:00.001-07:002012-10-23T17:49:05.897-07:00Day 2I've been keeping quiet on the blogger-sphere mainly because I've been going through a lot of personal changes lately and the main change was a big secret for a long time. (No, it's not pregnancy so don't even start with me!) I got a new job and it's been a stressful but exciting change. I can't say where I'm working because my blog, unlike my Facebook, is public and I don't feel like getting tagged in a corporate Google search. <br />
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This change has been a long time coming. I feel like I hit a wall where I was working that I could not go through, climb over, or leap over and it wasn't from lack of trying on my part! I could go on and on and tell you all the horrible things that I went through there and the stupid shit that people told me but it wouldn't make sense at this point. All I can say is that I was being majorly held back. But at the same time, I struggled in making my decision because I loved what I did and I was really comfortable there.<br />
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So a couple of weeks ago, after I accepted my job offer, I walked into my manager's office and broke the news to him. Really fast. My hands were shaking, I felt like crying, and my voice almost failed me. But surprisingly, he was really happy for me and told me I needed to make the best decision for me, etc. Relieved? Yes! Was that the end of it? No... I wish! I'm not going to go into the details but it involved a lack luster counter offer. I finished my final two weeks there and it was not fun. I watched everything I've done unravel and it was the worst experience ever. And all I could do was watch.<br />
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There were positive moments to my final two weeks so I can't forget those. I got called a "shining star employee" and someone that is "rarely attained" by the Regional Manager. I got a ton of phone calls and emails from people within the company who were upset to see me go. One of our vendors told me that I am a "super brain" and he wants to keep me on his contact list for the future. Coworkers even came out of the woodwork and told me that they felt I was treated unfairly during my employment. I am going to forget all the bad and remember all the good, that is my goal!<br />
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I'm currently on Day 2 of my new job training and I am sitting in a hotel room, 200+ miles away from home (but close to my family). I am using my resistance band exercises in my hotel room, I'm using the hotel gym equipment, and I'm bound and determined to eat healthy. I've got a kitchenette in my room, so I think that will be easier than I'm imagining. I'm mentally exhausted and sore from slouching over people's shoulders all day. For those of you who know me in a work sense, you know that I'm pretty "get up and go" and I feel so unhelpful right now. I just want to absorb everything and get to work! I want to help fix problems and get solutions underway fast. I know, I know... I need to go with the flow and take my time. Yeah, yeah. :)<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdVM_bSniiYGjt1kzaqcU_fvp0LsClotshrUkUM3ty4_3M2Nfh4jJ6zP106Fq-a2gWdaFfnfby3ToP_AyZ7hFXFNh2Ayo3pEhnSRGSb5ic7e_hIu-LdocpJfVOIRNxxRta-5rRjAuSxwDK/s1600/only_dead_fish_go_with_the_flow_sticker-p217673506943828682envb3_400.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdVM_bSniiYGjt1kzaqcU_fvp0LsClotshrUkUM3ty4_3M2Nfh4jJ6zP106Fq-a2gWdaFfnfby3ToP_AyZ7hFXFNh2Ayo3pEhnSRGSb5ic7e_hIu-LdocpJfVOIRNxxRta-5rRjAuSxwDK/s320/only_dead_fish_go_with_the_flow_sticker-p217673506943828682envb3_400.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">But this is how I really feel...</td></tr>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2