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Friday, September 10, 2021
Friday, June 14, 2019
I’m Still Here. Hello?
Hello Blogger folks. Don’t delete my blog until I can print it or I start posting. Whichever comes first... but really. Don’t delete it.
Sunday, August 6, 2017
Friday, December 19, 2014
It's weird...
It's weird when you are going through something tough and painful that each day is long and hard and it seems like you'll never feel relief or reach a resolution. But then slowly, slowly things get better and stuff falls into place. I'm in those long hard days. I know when I come out on the other side I'll be a stronger person. I am just having a hard time getting to that place. And so I'll take things minute by minute until that glorious day when the clouds break and the sun shines through.
Saturday, December 6, 2014
I Need This
Man, I haven't blogged in a loooong time. My life has been so completely effed up since my dad died... I am trying to keep my head above water and it isn't easy, day to day.
Know what else isn't easy? Blogging from a phone. But that's a minor road block. Because I truly feel like blogging will help me out of a funk. A funk I must get out of. I desperately need some direction in my life and I enjoy writing. Who knew? I know not many people even read this, besides a spammy computer from time to time. I also know that with Reddit, Tumblr, Instagram, Buzzfeed and the like that a silly little blog from a 40 year old housewife isn't even that interesting. And I don't even give a damn. My blog is interesting to me and it's therapy I desperately need. It's gonna be happy and sad and funny and I'll include some of my family's adventures but mostly this is about me, for me. Once I get back into the hang of things, I may rename the blog... Maybe. Or maybe I'm too lazy. We shall see.
Monday, April 8, 2013
My Dad Can Beat Up Your Dad by Ashley AKA "Rat"
I never thought this day would come. Okay, yes I did. I knew as a young girl and on into adulthood that my dad's love of cigarettes would eventually lead to emphysema, oxygen tanks and lung cancer and that's exactly what happened, in that order. Sure, it was a nasty awful habit, an embarrassing addiction but it didn't take away from the fact that my dad was a tough yet kind, amazing person. He was loyal, funny, strong, cool and handsome with his beautiful blue eyes.
My dad was a simple person, not at all fancy. Which was very apparent in his fashion choices: chambray jeans, a plaid or striped short sleeved button down shirt, brown or black gold toe socks and hush puppies. He NEVER wore a coat, ever! When he reached his 50's, he would don a long sleeved red and black plaid flannel that he would wear over his signature plaid shirt. And that was only if the weather was below 30 degrees. He even wore the same belt for as long as I can remember. In part because his belt was used for dual purposes: to hold up his chambray jeans because his lack of behind kept them sagging (long before it was trendy) and to whip us into shape whenever necessary. Old Yeller, as the belt was called was legendary in our house. I'm not sure when the belt broke, but I'd like to think it was while whacking some one's butt. He also used the same hairbrush for nearly thirty years. It was the second line of discipline when Old Yeller was otherwise occupied. That brush has been hurled across a room and down the hall so many times I've lost count. My dad had precise aim and knew just how hard to throw the brush to inflict enough pain to make a point but not enough to break. Now, I don't want you to think he abused us. That's just how things were done in our house back when physical discipline was the norm in almost every one's home. My older siblings may disagree, I think it's because he was too tired when us three younger girls came along. Really, my dad had a heart of gold beneath his crusty exterior, anyone that knew him would agree.
He ran a construction business for many years and his workers worshipped the ground Mr. Gary walked on, bringing him treats ranging from boots to umpteen bottles of tequila which he never drank. My dad didn't drink alcohol much, he liked Squirt and Coke with "alotta" ice. He also loved food! He loved to cook, but wasn't into fancy, unless you counted his Chicken Cordon Bleu. He was particularly proud of his spaghetti, his blue cheese dressing, vegetable soup and his exact replica of orange chicken a la Chinese takeout. He was also a snacker. I can't tell you how many times we had to rub/scratch his feet while he enjoyed a post-work/pre-dinner snack. His favorites being: fried pork skins, avocado with salt, Fritos and bean dip, Tostitos with cheese dip and Corn Nuts. He also thoroughly enjoyed Hostess Fried pies, green onion dip with Ruffles and cheese nachos with an ice cold Squirt. My daddy liked his drinks cold and his toast burnt. His favorite dinner was homemade fried chicken, corn on the cob, sliced tomatoes and green onions with plenty of salt. Another favorite was liver, ummm yuck!
He swore that liver, lima beans, beets (straight from the can) and other such awful foods would put hair on your chest. Cool dad, thanks...
My dad was more than just a ''foodie'', he was also a crazy good handyman. He could make or fix anything. If he had time, his fix-its were a work of art. If he was in a hurry, they were still a work of art. Just of the duct tape/pliers variety. Trust me, we were the only kids I know who had a pair of vise grips for a shower knob. I've even seen my dad fashion a new insole for his hush puppies with one of my old binders from school during our particularly lean years. I'm pretty sure that the one fix-it skill he was most proud of was his ability to repair firearms. This was a self-taught skill, that provided money for our family. We lived off of his gunsmithing skills for many, many years. Back then, I never gave much thought to it. There was always "just enough" for what we needed and sometimes extra, like 99 cent Whopper Wednesdays at Burger King accompanied by a bag of chips and a 2 liter soda. Good times, surrounded by cheap food. I have many fond memories of time spent at his gun shop, Anderson Firearms, playing school with my sisters in the office upstairs. I thought I was a badass because my tough ol' daddy had his own business and it was a gun store, no less. Before he had to sell off his personal cache of firearms so we could eat, he would spread out his and my mom's good bedspread on the living room floor and clean his guns for hours. Those guns were his pride and joy, besides his babies which is precisely why he sold them, so we could eat and have water and electricity. And, that's not all he unloaded to take care of us. I, more than once accompanied him to a pawn shop to sell a power tool so we could have money. He had to swallow his pride a lot when we were growing up, borrowing from whomever he could and whatever he could to support his brood. And, I know it wasn't easy but I'll be forever thankful and in awe of my dad for this.
Some of my fondest memories are of him tossing us in the back of his Datsun pickup truck so we could head to Winchell's donuts or him, once in a blue moon going to church with us smelling a little like Winston lights and a lot like Wint-O-Green life savers and Old Spice cologne. He would rest his arm along the back of the pew, so he could love on you or thump your back if you got out of line. He would hum every hymn in his deep voice, which was a nice comforting sound. He took his role as comforter and nurturer very seriously, tough as he was. I can't count the times when I was sick that I would wake up to his rough, calloused hands checking my temperature or trying to shove baby aspirin or Donnatal down my throat. He loved his babies, no matter how feisty we were or how old we got, and showed us in his own special way. Most memorable would be picking our birthday and Valentine's cards when my mom began working towards my fifth grade year. He would always tease me in the cards about burning cookies, I think because he got me a card every year with a cookie recipe printed inside. His nickname for me was Rat, and he was the only one who was allowed to call me that. I distinctly remember one of the cards saying, "Honest Rat, I like hard cookies."
As much as he loved and cherished us, it was understood that we make his coffee, dump his ashtray, and get him a post dinner toothpick and rub his back of scratch his feet most nights of the week. Back then I hated it, now I realized he deserved it because he worked so hard for us. The feet scratching was the worst for us definitely. But the back rubs drove me nuts, because he always commanded us to "grab handfuls" of skin simply because it felt good and indulgent after a long day of work.
Of course, as a kid these were annoyances and now they are fond memories. Eventually we all grew up and moved away. Some out of state, but not me, I stayed close. As much as my parents drove me nuts, I couldn't stand to be far. I first moved five minutes away, then 15, then 45, and the furthest- 1 hour, which was heartbreaking because I always needed my mommy and daddy close. Many days as an adult, my dad would stop by to take my oldest child "ghost hunting", which was essentially a drive in the dark to look for ghosts or he would pop over on his lunch hour. He says he was checking on us, but I think mainly he wanted me to bid on books on Ebay for him so he could add to his collection of Stephen Meader books. He never learned how to use a computer, and I was his personal computer shopper.
I eventually moved further away and as my family grew older and got busier, I saw my folks less and less, but I talked to them everyday. Anytime I was scared, worried or needed advice, I would hang out with them so we could talk and talk and talk. The most recent was in November of 2010, when I was going through some heavy duty personal stuff. We sat at El Fenix, ate enchiladas and chatted, with my dad giving me stellar advice, as usual. Everything was okay when I talked to my dad, he always made me feel better. Then, as he aged without me realizing it, and eventually contracted cancer, it became mine and my siblings jobs to make him feel better. Gladly feeding him his favorite foods, making him coffee, rubbing his back and scratching his feet. Anything to ease his pain and misery. And yes, I put on his deodorant, trimmed his nose hair, and clipped his nails among many other things. I would've done anything to give him one ounce of the care, comfort and compassion he gave us kids growing up. What I wouldn't give to hear him tell me one more time, "You're hell, ain't ya, Rat?"
This isn't bye, Daddy. It's "see ya on the other side."
Love, Ashley "Rat Rat" Kristen Anderson
My dad was a simple person, not at all fancy. Which was very apparent in his fashion choices: chambray jeans, a plaid or striped short sleeved button down shirt, brown or black gold toe socks and hush puppies. He NEVER wore a coat, ever! When he reached his 50's, he would don a long sleeved red and black plaid flannel that he would wear over his signature plaid shirt. And that was only if the weather was below 30 degrees. He even wore the same belt for as long as I can remember. In part because his belt was used for dual purposes: to hold up his chambray jeans because his lack of behind kept them sagging (long before it was trendy) and to whip us into shape whenever necessary. Old Yeller, as the belt was called was legendary in our house. I'm not sure when the belt broke, but I'd like to think it was while whacking some one's butt. He also used the same hairbrush for nearly thirty years. It was the second line of discipline when Old Yeller was otherwise occupied. That brush has been hurled across a room and down the hall so many times I've lost count. My dad had precise aim and knew just how hard to throw the brush to inflict enough pain to make a point but not enough to break. Now, I don't want you to think he abused us. That's just how things were done in our house back when physical discipline was the norm in almost every one's home. My older siblings may disagree, I think it's because he was too tired when us three younger girls came along. Really, my dad had a heart of gold beneath his crusty exterior, anyone that knew him would agree.
He ran a construction business for many years and his workers worshipped the ground Mr. Gary walked on, bringing him treats ranging from boots to umpteen bottles of tequila which he never drank. My dad didn't drink alcohol much, he liked Squirt and Coke with "alotta" ice. He also loved food! He loved to cook, but wasn't into fancy, unless you counted his Chicken Cordon Bleu. He was particularly proud of his spaghetti, his blue cheese dressing, vegetable soup and his exact replica of orange chicken a la Chinese takeout. He was also a snacker. I can't tell you how many times we had to rub/scratch his feet while he enjoyed a post-work/pre-dinner snack. His favorites being: fried pork skins, avocado with salt, Fritos and bean dip, Tostitos with cheese dip and Corn Nuts. He also thoroughly enjoyed Hostess Fried pies, green onion dip with Ruffles and cheese nachos with an ice cold Squirt. My daddy liked his drinks cold and his toast burnt. His favorite dinner was homemade fried chicken, corn on the cob, sliced tomatoes and green onions with plenty of salt. Another favorite was liver, ummm yuck!
He swore that liver, lima beans, beets (straight from the can) and other such awful foods would put hair on your chest. Cool dad, thanks...
My dad was more than just a ''foodie'', he was also a crazy good handyman. He could make or fix anything. If he had time, his fix-its were a work of art. If he was in a hurry, they were still a work of art. Just of the duct tape/pliers variety. Trust me, we were the only kids I know who had a pair of vise grips for a shower knob. I've even seen my dad fashion a new insole for his hush puppies with one of my old binders from school during our particularly lean years. I'm pretty sure that the one fix-it skill he was most proud of was his ability to repair firearms. This was a self-taught skill, that provided money for our family. We lived off of his gunsmithing skills for many, many years. Back then, I never gave much thought to it. There was always "just enough" for what we needed and sometimes extra, like 99 cent Whopper Wednesdays at Burger King accompanied by a bag of chips and a 2 liter soda. Good times, surrounded by cheap food. I have many fond memories of time spent at his gun shop, Anderson Firearms, playing school with my sisters in the office upstairs. I thought I was a badass because my tough ol' daddy had his own business and it was a gun store, no less. Before he had to sell off his personal cache of firearms so we could eat, he would spread out his and my mom's good bedspread on the living room floor and clean his guns for hours. Those guns were his pride and joy, besides his babies which is precisely why he sold them, so we could eat and have water and electricity. And, that's not all he unloaded to take care of us. I, more than once accompanied him to a pawn shop to sell a power tool so we could have money. He had to swallow his pride a lot when we were growing up, borrowing from whomever he could and whatever he could to support his brood. And, I know it wasn't easy but I'll be forever thankful and in awe of my dad for this.
Some of my fondest memories are of him tossing us in the back of his Datsun pickup truck so we could head to Winchell's donuts or him, once in a blue moon going to church with us smelling a little like Winston lights and a lot like Wint-O-Green life savers and Old Spice cologne. He would rest his arm along the back of the pew, so he could love on you or thump your back if you got out of line. He would hum every hymn in his deep voice, which was a nice comforting sound. He took his role as comforter and nurturer very seriously, tough as he was. I can't count the times when I was sick that I would wake up to his rough, calloused hands checking my temperature or trying to shove baby aspirin or Donnatal down my throat. He loved his babies, no matter how feisty we were or how old we got, and showed us in his own special way. Most memorable would be picking our birthday and Valentine's cards when my mom began working towards my fifth grade year. He would always tease me in the cards about burning cookies, I think because he got me a card every year with a cookie recipe printed inside. His nickname for me was Rat, and he was the only one who was allowed to call me that. I distinctly remember one of the cards saying, "Honest Rat, I like hard cookies."
As much as he loved and cherished us, it was understood that we make his coffee, dump his ashtray, and get him a post dinner toothpick and rub his back of scratch his feet most nights of the week. Back then I hated it, now I realized he deserved it because he worked so hard for us. The feet scratching was the worst for us definitely. But the back rubs drove me nuts, because he always commanded us to "grab handfuls" of skin simply because it felt good and indulgent after a long day of work.
Of course, as a kid these were annoyances and now they are fond memories. Eventually we all grew up and moved away. Some out of state, but not me, I stayed close. As much as my parents drove me nuts, I couldn't stand to be far. I first moved five minutes away, then 15, then 45, and the furthest- 1 hour, which was heartbreaking because I always needed my mommy and daddy close. Many days as an adult, my dad would stop by to take my oldest child "ghost hunting", which was essentially a drive in the dark to look for ghosts or he would pop over on his lunch hour. He says he was checking on us, but I think mainly he wanted me to bid on books on Ebay for him so he could add to his collection of Stephen Meader books. He never learned how to use a computer, and I was his personal computer shopper.
I eventually moved further away and as my family grew older and got busier, I saw my folks less and less, but I talked to them everyday. Anytime I was scared, worried or needed advice, I would hang out with them so we could talk and talk and talk. The most recent was in November of 2010, when I was going through some heavy duty personal stuff. We sat at El Fenix, ate enchiladas and chatted, with my dad giving me stellar advice, as usual. Everything was okay when I talked to my dad, he always made me feel better. Then, as he aged without me realizing it, and eventually contracted cancer, it became mine and my siblings jobs to make him feel better. Gladly feeding him his favorite foods, making him coffee, rubbing his back and scratching his feet. Anything to ease his pain and misery. And yes, I put on his deodorant, trimmed his nose hair, and clipped his nails among many other things. I would've done anything to give him one ounce of the care, comfort and compassion he gave us kids growing up. What I wouldn't give to hear him tell me one more time, "You're hell, ain't ya, Rat?"
This isn't bye, Daddy. It's "see ya on the other side."
Love, Ashley "Rat Rat" Kristen Anderson
Friday, March 1, 2013
Saturday, January 1, 2011
I hope, I hope (resolutions be damned)
I hope:
that I can lose 20 more pounds and keep it off
that karma bites that nasty woman in her ass
that we don't get any more vehicles stolen or have any money issues
to be able to go the temple more
to be a better wife, mother, daughter, and friend
to be on Facebook less
that I don't have to attend any more funerals (4 in one calendar year is 4 too many..)
that my big sister can get clean
that Jon and my kids will be at my side every Sunday at church
that Chan will get a JOB and finally start school...
that I can get a tummy tuck and breast lift
that me and Jon will pretty please be able to go on a trip for our 15th anniversary
that my house will sell and we'll move to the right place for the right price
Really though, as much as I want all of the above, I just want to be HAPPY and I want to SMILE more. I want me and my family to get along and be together as often as possible and I want us to be HEALTHY and UNITED.
Happy New Year Y'all!
that I can lose 20 more pounds and keep it off
that karma bites that nasty woman in her ass
that we don't get any more vehicles stolen or have any money issues
to be able to go the temple more
to be a better wife, mother, daughter, and friend
to be on Facebook less
that I don't have to attend any more funerals (4 in one calendar year is 4 too many..)
that my big sister can get clean
that Jon and my kids will be at my side every Sunday at church
that Chan will get a JOB and finally start school...
that I can get a tummy tuck and breast lift
that me and Jon will pretty please be able to go on a trip for our 15th anniversary
that my house will sell and we'll move to the right place for the right price
Really though, as much as I want all of the above, I just want to be HAPPY and I want to SMILE more. I want me and my family to get along and be together as often as possible and I want us to be HEALTHY and UNITED.
Happy New Year Y'all!
Sunday, October 10, 2010
She's baaaaaaacccckkkk!
Don't get too excited, I may up and quit before the week is out... But, either way- I thought I'd re-acquaint y'all with me. So, here goes.
I am a feisty redheaded mom of 5. I used to be a FAT chick, but am now what I consider chubby, if a size 12 is chubby. I used to weigh 270 at my highest and now weigh 175. I am addicted to Mexican food, pretzel M&M's, Diet Coke, kissing my baby (because he's the only one that can't get away) and my daily walks. I don't really have any talents to speak of- I can't cook, sew, scrapbook, take good pictures, etc etc. I am however a loyal friend and I think I'm pretty damn funny, so there! I am very good at- long bubble baths, Facebook, and window shopping. Right now my house is for sale and my hubby just started another job and cut his hours at his primary job. So, we are broke and it sucks. But, what can you do? I tried my hand at home-schooling my daughter but I felt tied down and she was bored so now, it's just me, my baby, and my oldest son who is both out of school AND unemployed. It's a barrel of fun. Not really. I hope to pick blogging up again full time. I can't promise I'll stick to it. I really hope I can provide a sounding board for myself and a laugh for y'all. If I am feeling ambitious I may fancy up my background and such and if y'all are lucky- I might even post some pictures. Don't count on it though. One thing I realized after having another baby- my kids are the boss around here not me. I'm just glad I get to eat and periodically shower....
I am a feisty redheaded mom of 5. I used to be a FAT chick, but am now what I consider chubby, if a size 12 is chubby. I used to weigh 270 at my highest and now weigh 175. I am addicted to Mexican food, pretzel M&M's, Diet Coke, kissing my baby (because he's the only one that can't get away) and my daily walks. I don't really have any talents to speak of- I can't cook, sew, scrapbook, take good pictures, etc etc. I am however a loyal friend and I think I'm pretty damn funny, so there! I am very good at- long bubble baths, Facebook, and window shopping. Right now my house is for sale and my hubby just started another job and cut his hours at his primary job. So, we are broke and it sucks. But, what can you do? I tried my hand at home-schooling my daughter but I felt tied down and she was bored so now, it's just me, my baby, and my oldest son who is both out of school AND unemployed. It's a barrel of fun. Not really. I hope to pick blogging up again full time. I can't promise I'll stick to it. I really hope I can provide a sounding board for myself and a laugh for y'all. If I am feeling ambitious I may fancy up my background and such and if y'all are lucky- I might even post some pictures. Don't count on it though. One thing I realized after having another baby- my kids are the boss around here not me. I'm just glad I get to eat and periodically shower....
Monday, August 9, 2010
Weight Loss Progress
For those of you on Facebook, this is old news. But, I'm posting it here anyways...
This is me when Cam was 6 weeks old and me as of July. I have lost 75 pounds since the day he was born. As of late April I am at 40 pounds lost and over 20 inches! Yay me! I am saving for a tummy tuck and breast lift, for reals. If I can get down to 145, I'm meeting with a surgeon. I am at 190 now. 45 more to go....
P.S. I suck at making photo collages....
This is me when Cam was 6 weeks old and me as of July. I have lost 75 pounds since the day he was born. As of late April I am at 40 pounds lost and over 20 inches! Yay me! I am saving for a tummy tuck and breast lift, for reals. If I can get down to 145, I'm meeting with a surgeon. I am at 190 now. 45 more to go....
P.S. I suck at making photo collages....
Bye, for now...
Well, you had to know this was coming. I'm saying Bye Bye Bye to my blog for now. Even though I rarely if ever post and probably have little to no readers, I wanted to formally say- see ya! I really wanted to keep my blog updated, I just can't. I APPLAUD those of you who keep yours updated- I admire y'all and thoroughly enjoy reading about your families and experiences. Keep it up! I am just overwhelmingly busy with my life right now. I am constantly breastfeeding, washing dishes, doing laundry, cooking, tending to Camden or exercising. If I'm lucky I might be able to shower or read a magazine... I don't even get to chat or hang out with my older kiddos as often as I'd like. Used to, when I first started blogging, I had my camera all the time and a list of blog ideas. Now, I rarely even sit at the computer. I have joked that I was cheating on my blog with Facebook, and it's true. If cell phones weren't so darn internet friendly I wouldn't even be on Facebook either. Believe it or not- this is actually very emotional for me. I have met some amazing people through blogging (Sarah, Shannon, Krista- to name a few) and will miss it terribly. Thanks again for friendship, laughter, and the support and well wishes you have shown me in the 3 years I've been a blogger. Don't give up on me though- keep me on a reader or in your favorite's list. I just may surprise you and become A Blogging Queen someday- like say if I reach my goal weight or get pregnant again (as if) or win the lottery (I wish). Love y'all! It's been AMAZING!
P.S. I'm now 190lbs (have lost 40 pounds and 20 inches)!
Hunter is starting high school!
I might be home-schooling Chloe!
Hayden turned expert in BMX!
Camden is fixing to be 1 and is taking steps here and there!
Jon has lost 20 pounds since he started working two jobs!
and, Chan is finding that adulthood is not all rainbows and lollipops...
P.S.S. if you want to keep reading about my family and antics, add me on Facebook if we're not already friends, I promise I won't think you're weird....
Some current photos!
me and Cam
I recently met some friends from high school for dinner, so much fun!
Chloe has pink hair! For summer only. On and she's officially a teenager now...
Hunter FINALLY cut his hair!
Cam can feed himself!
.JPG)
P.S. I'm now 190lbs (have lost 40 pounds and 20 inches)!
Hunter is starting high school!
I might be home-schooling Chloe!
Hayden turned expert in BMX!
Camden is fixing to be 1 and is taking steps here and there!
Jon has lost 20 pounds since he started working two jobs!
and, Chan is finding that adulthood is not all rainbows and lollipops...
P.S.S. if you want to keep reading about my family and antics, add me on Facebook if we're not already friends, I promise I won't think you're weird....
Some current photos!
me and Cam
I recently met some friends from high school for dinner, so much fun!
Chloe has pink hair! For summer only. On and she's officially a teenager now...
Hunter FINALLY cut his hair!
Cam can feed himself!
.JPG)
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Because I am AWESOME!
I have lost almost 35 pounds! I now weigh: 197.6! I haven't weighed this "little" since 1997. Anyway, just wanted to share. Ok, now go comment away telling me how proud you are and how awesome I am. Only if you feel like it ;)
Friday, July 2, 2010
HI!
Yeah, so I'm even worse at blogging than before...oops! I am not gonna make an excuse, just know that with 5 kids time for myself is sparse.
So- here's the rundown:
I am absolutely obsessed with weight loss. I'm 2 pounds away from being under 200 and I couldn't be happier! Yes I could- if I was 140. I am hoping I can get there by January. My total weight loss is 28.4 pounds and just over 12 inches, 5 of those in my hips alone... As long as I get in some exercise, don't go over my calories, and my chores are done I'm good. Oh yeah, I do try to hang with the kids as much as possible.
Jon is working ALL THE TIME and he is the #1 playmate around here, so the kids are bored out of their minds. I'm having a hard time thinking of inexpensive activities for kids ranging from 9 months to 18 years. Our pool is green- we are missing an important part that helps the pool stay chlorinated so swimming is out. I can't take Cam to movies so that's out. Jon used to be off on Wednesdays and during summer that was our big family activity day, but no more. The X-box broke so video games are out. So, we're kinda bummed and blah. It's bugging the kids more than me since I'm so focused on weight loss.
Chan is having a hard time finding job, which stinks. He might be living here til he's 30... we'll see. He spends most of his time reading and playing guitar. He is also working on his weight and has lost 15 pounds since graduation.
Chloe, Hunter, and Hayden are just chillin' every day. Fighting over the computer, sleeping too late and being annoying.
Cam is FINALLY sleeping in his crib at night. He cried quite a bit at first but has done fairly well. Last night he slept for 11 hours without waking up! He still naps in my arms, the car, or the stroller. But, Rome wasn't built in a day right? He is cruising furniture like crazy, crawling everywhere and his two words are dadada and lalala. Super cute! He also just got two teeth that have barely busted through his gums the last few days.
So, that's about it! I totally understand if NO ONE reads this anymore. And, comments? Who needs 'em? See y'all soon!
So- here's the rundown:
I am absolutely obsessed with weight loss. I'm 2 pounds away from being under 200 and I couldn't be happier! Yes I could- if I was 140. I am hoping I can get there by January. My total weight loss is 28.4 pounds and just over 12 inches, 5 of those in my hips alone... As long as I get in some exercise, don't go over my calories, and my chores are done I'm good. Oh yeah, I do try to hang with the kids as much as possible.
Jon is working ALL THE TIME and he is the #1 playmate around here, so the kids are bored out of their minds. I'm having a hard time thinking of inexpensive activities for kids ranging from 9 months to 18 years. Our pool is green- we are missing an important part that helps the pool stay chlorinated so swimming is out. I can't take Cam to movies so that's out. Jon used to be off on Wednesdays and during summer that was our big family activity day, but no more. The X-box broke so video games are out. So, we're kinda bummed and blah. It's bugging the kids more than me since I'm so focused on weight loss.
Chan is having a hard time finding job, which stinks. He might be living here til he's 30... we'll see. He spends most of his time reading and playing guitar. He is also working on his weight and has lost 15 pounds since graduation.
Chloe, Hunter, and Hayden are just chillin' every day. Fighting over the computer, sleeping too late and being annoying.
Cam is FINALLY sleeping in his crib at night. He cried quite a bit at first but has done fairly well. Last night he slept for 11 hours without waking up! He still naps in my arms, the car, or the stroller. But, Rome wasn't built in a day right? He is cruising furniture like crazy, crawling everywhere and his two words are dadada and lalala. Super cute! He also just got two teeth that have barely busted through his gums the last few days.
So, that's about it! I totally understand if NO ONE reads this anymore. And, comments? Who needs 'em? See y'all soon!
Friday, June 11, 2010
Me: on another diet
Yeah, so I'm dieting again. This time, (crosses fingers) I am doing a little better than before. Amen to breastfeeding. Which I'm probably going to be doing until Camden starts kindergarten... Anyway, I am doing much like I did before when I lost a little over 20 pounds- watching portions, having mustard instead of mayo, lots of fresh fruit, only diet sodas, etc. I am allowing myself about 1500 calories per day, sometimes less sometimes more. I still need to maintain a good diet since Cam nurses ALOT. Which is ok with me, because I am losing it quicker than I thought I could. Why didn't I start this when he was 7 weeks old instead of 7 months old? Oh yeah- postpartum depression. Anyway... I normally wouldn't post my starting weight being the internet and all. But, what the hell? So here goes:
my highest non-pregnant weight- 258 (after my appendix surgery)
9 months pregnant weight- 270
weight when I started dieting- 231
weight now- 211.6
Yep, that's right! I have lost 19.4 pounds since April 15th (58.4 since I delivered Cam). It has been crazy- trying to count calories in addition to fitting in a 2 to 3 mile walk every day. The calorie counting has been pretty easy, thanks to an app called Lose It on my phone. The walks are another matter- it's stray angry dog city out here. But, I'm managing thanks to walking with some friends and a wooden sword from Medieval Times! Seriously though, I am so close to being under 200 it's crazy! I am pretty stoked especially since A) I havent weighed this amount since Chloe was 6 months old and B) I am at the smallest size Lane Bryant sells which means I can finally start shopping for clothes somewhere else! Yeehaw! Not that their clothes aren't cute, I'm just tired of that being one of the only places I can shop. I would dress totally different if my options for clothing weren't so limited. Plus, those fat girl clothes are expensive! All that extra fabric... So, wish me luck. I hope to be chosen for the Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue next Summer. Not really.
my highest non-pregnant weight- 258 (after my appendix surgery)
9 months pregnant weight- 270
weight when I started dieting- 231
weight now- 211.6
Yep, that's right! I have lost 19.4 pounds since April 15th (58.4 since I delivered Cam). It has been crazy- trying to count calories in addition to fitting in a 2 to 3 mile walk every day. The calorie counting has been pretty easy, thanks to an app called Lose It on my phone. The walks are another matter- it's stray angry dog city out here. But, I'm managing thanks to walking with some friends and a wooden sword from Medieval Times! Seriously though, I am so close to being under 200 it's crazy! I am pretty stoked especially since A) I havent weighed this amount since Chloe was 6 months old and B) I am at the smallest size Lane Bryant sells which means I can finally start shopping for clothes somewhere else! Yeehaw! Not that their clothes aren't cute, I'm just tired of that being one of the only places I can shop. I would dress totally different if my options for clothing weren't so limited. Plus, those fat girl clothes are expensive! All that extra fabric... So, wish me luck. I hope to be chosen for the Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue next Summer. Not really.
Thursday, June 3, 2010
He's got him a high school deeplomaaa!
Oh my gosh... really. I cannot believe my Chan graduated high school. Not that I ever doubted him, not one bit. I am seriously dripping snot and tears as I type this. I guess I'm not good with change, or knowing that he's officially a big kid now and technically doesn't need me anymore. Basically the scissors are hovering near the apron strings and I'm trying to back away... All these years I knew it would hit me HARD when graduation day came. I had him my Senior year and didn't do the whole walk across the stage thing and this was like I graduated right along with him. I just can't believe I won't have to replace another school ID or wash his favorite dress code shorts at midnight or make him his favorite brown bag lunch again and that is making the lump in my throat bigger than it needs to be. I remember every single moment of his first day of kindergarten: he had sausage and pancakes and wore a black and white t-shirt with jeans and these little Payless brand tennis shoes. We even stopped at Sack -n- Save for kleenex because that's a "required" school supply item and I believe we got him an ultra groovy soccer backpack at S&S too. Weird. I was so afraid he was gonna cry and that little fart walked away from me and started coloring and said- "you can go now Mom". Umm, okay. And, he has continued to amaze me ever since- winning 3 spelling bees to reading Harry Potter and The Lord of the Rings in 2ND GRADE!! And, man oh man all the neat stories he would write. He has always loved literature and it wasn't until he was 15 that he developed a love of music and guitar. I am just so very happy that I have been able to get to know, teach, and love this kid and love that he teaches me too. I asked my friend Kathi earlier when the lump in my throat would go away and she said never, it just changes as life does and as you experience more and more as you live. Well put. However, I wish mine would simmer down a bit. I'm having a hard time breathing.
Anyway- yesterday was nuts! Typical for us of course but I think it was nuttier than normal. It was a very long day. Starting with Hayden's field day and ending with Chan's graduation. The venue was jampacked and parking was scarce. I ended up parking in a lot but then it started pouring and the attendant ducked for cover, so I never paid, oops. I had Hunter and Cam with me and my mom went in with Chloe and Jon, Hayden, and Chan had gotten there earlier. I was so afraid I was gonna miss him walking in but thankfully I was able to get in there in time. As soon as the music started I stood in amazement and bawled like a baby. And, let's see- I couldn't take my stroller in the stands, my carseat was blocking the aisle and Cam lost patience quick. All in all I was in and out of the stands about ten times. Getting out to leave was insane, I lost my whole family and was shoved many many times. Which, for a feisty redhead was not fun, I tried super hard to maintain my cool.... It was just a crazy night. I drove my mom back to Grand Prairie and scarfed down two Whataburger taquitos in her driveway, the first meal I'd had since noon and it was nearing midnight. Anyway- I am not sure what the future holds for Chan or any of us to be honest. But, I am sorta excited to find out!
about to take their seats for the ceremony
The Graduate!
our family
mama and her baby
the official document
Anyway- yesterday was nuts! Typical for us of course but I think it was nuttier than normal. It was a very long day. Starting with Hayden's field day and ending with Chan's graduation. The venue was jampacked and parking was scarce. I ended up parking in a lot but then it started pouring and the attendant ducked for cover, so I never paid, oops. I had Hunter and Cam with me and my mom went in with Chloe and Jon, Hayden, and Chan had gotten there earlier. I was so afraid I was gonna miss him walking in but thankfully I was able to get in there in time. As soon as the music started I stood in amazement and bawled like a baby. And, let's see- I couldn't take my stroller in the stands, my carseat was blocking the aisle and Cam lost patience quick. All in all I was in and out of the stands about ten times. Getting out to leave was insane, I lost my whole family and was shoved many many times. Which, for a feisty redhead was not fun, I tried super hard to maintain my cool.... It was just a crazy night. I drove my mom back to Grand Prairie and scarfed down two Whataburger taquitos in her driveway, the first meal I'd had since noon and it was nearing midnight. Anyway- I am not sure what the future holds for Chan or any of us to be honest. But, I am sorta excited to find out!
about to take their seats for the ceremony
The Graduate!
our family
mama and her baby
the official document
Ding Ding Ding!
We have our winners!
Laura- you've won the s'mores basket!
and
Kathi- you've won the outdoor fun basket!
Yay! Thanks for reading and entering and stuff!!
P.S. Laura- I will bring yours to church and Kathi- I can bring yours to GP or I can take it to Erica's :)
Laura- you've won the s'mores basket!
and
Kathi- you've won the outdoor fun basket!
Yay! Thanks for reading and entering and stuff!!
P.S. Laura- I will bring yours to church and Kathi- I can bring yours to GP or I can take it to Erica's :)
Friday, May 28, 2010
Summer Giveaway!
As promised I am doing a giveaway in honor of 700 posts and because school is out in like, 4 days. Amen! I had all these grand plans for one of the baskets and life is just too busy to craft. Heck, I can barely find time to bathe... Anyway. Enter by leaving a comment indicating which basket you want. I'll devise a way to choose a winner and let you know via email if you've won. I'm starting the giveaway now and ending it whenever I darn well please. Or in other words- whenever I, A) remember and B) have time. I have two baskets to gift. One is a daytime fun basket- sidewalk chalk, water guns, water balloons, bubbles, and freezer pops. The other is a s'mores basket- s'mores forks, hershey bars, marshmallows, and graham crackers. If you want to enter both let me know or if you only want to try your luck at one please indicate. Ready. Set. Enter.
outdoor/daytime fun basket
s'mores basket
outdoor/daytime fun basket
s'mores basket
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Holy Cow! 700 posts?!
Oh crap! My life is INSANE lately. I cannot stress that enough. Jon started a second full time job on Monday and I have been playing single parent and it is HARD. He's been working 6am til about 8pm every night. My kids are driving me nuts- mainly my daughter and my baby. Chloe is just a giant teenage drama queen. Camden is so spoiled that not having his mommy to himself like normal has turned him into a ginormous cry baby. He has fussed so much this week that he is hoarse. Blah! My other kids, on the other hand, are being complete angels.
Anyway, I did want too acknowledge my 700th post! I cannot believe I was able to talk/type that much interesting (I hope) stuff. I am doing an awesome giveaway to kick off Summer. I am crossing my fingers that by tomorrow morning I'll have it ready to present.... I sure hope you've enjoyed reading all about my life- kids, husbands, babies, teenagers, periods and poop to name a few highlights! Now, I'm off to get kids from school and take Chan to his physical therapy appointment. Oh and Cam's out of baby food and I need to go to the DMV and I have to make cupcakes and buy a gift, and.... you get the point.
THANKS for reading! I love y'all to bits! Keep checking for my giveaway, it'll be on here before the goodies are obsolete, I hope.
Anyway, I did want too acknowledge my 700th post! I cannot believe I was able to talk/type that much interesting (I hope) stuff. I am doing an awesome giveaway to kick off Summer. I am crossing my fingers that by tomorrow morning I'll have it ready to present.... I sure hope you've enjoyed reading all about my life- kids, husbands, babies, teenagers, periods and poop to name a few highlights! Now, I'm off to get kids from school and take Chan to his physical therapy appointment. Oh and Cam's out of baby food and I need to go to the DMV and I have to make cupcakes and buy a gift, and.... you get the point.
THANKS for reading! I love y'all to bits! Keep checking for my giveaway, it'll be on here before the goodies are obsolete, I hope.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Bleh
Yeah, so I forgot to blog. Or something. I'm sure my previous post had nothing to do with me being tired, bloated, cranky, stressed, weepy and in no mood to blog. Oh no, Aunt Flo doesn't do that. She's a nice visitor. One who doesn't cause trouble or make messes and never overstays her welcome. Yeah right. Let's be honest- the last 5 days have been AWFUL. Basically I have been begging for menopause. Case closed. In other news- I am super bummed about LOST ending, I can't get Camden to sleep through the night without his (my) precious boobers, I've been walking 2 miles every night and my scale has a death grip on the exact same number while I have a death grip on anything and everything chocolate, and other than a few little happy spots, my Mother's Day was the worst one I have ever ever had. I really don't wanna go into detail, because I am all cried out. But, don't feel sorry for me, I am a big girl and as Jon told me- it's just a silly commercialized holiday. Ugghh. Men are so retarded. Tell me why we need them again? And, that's all I've got except for two teeny little things in my head. 1) does anybody know a plastic surgeon who wants to lift, tuck, and suck my body pro bono just because he/she is nice and I'm cute? It might be a tax write off for him/her. 2)This is my 699 post since August of '07 and I MIGHT do a giveaway to celebrate the BIG ONE. Maybe, but don't get too excited. I might decide to not blog again for a month or more. It all depends on what drama/loveliness might or might not get thrown my way.
Friday, May 7, 2010
men-stroo-ay-shun
So I've been a hormonal mess the past few days. Nothing new really- I mean I had finally leveled out a little bit from when Camden was born and was feeling normal and then bam! I have been crying like a baby this week. Well, guess what? Aunt Flo decided to come for a visit for the first time since December of 2008. That's right internet- I got my period. I haven't missed it. Not One Bit. I guess it's time to revisit the feminine hygiene aisle of CVS and bust out the Midol. Oh freaking joy. And, if you are cringing at this post- who cares. Whose blog is this? Mine! And, I am hormonal- so look out, especially men named Jon.
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