tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-62085468817062568362024-03-13T17:53:28.306-05:00My life with sweet cheeksMrs. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00276307109532750879noreply@blogger.comBlogger114125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6208546881706256836.post-10760403760956083782012-01-30T07:29:00.000-06:002012-01-30T07:29:47.927-06:00I have some exciting things going on.Please follow me here: <a href="http://fromnonetoone.wordpress.com/">http://fromnonetoone.wordpress.com/</a><br />
<br />
Stop by the new place. Kick off your shoes. Leave a comment. Follow along on the journey. I can't wait for you to see the amazing thing that's in the works. <3 <br />
<br />
xoxoMrs. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00276307109532750879noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6208546881706256836.post-41899609068736990092011-08-05T06:52:00.000-05:002011-08-05T06:52:07.244-05:00It's been 1 year.Today is 1 year since Papa Joe passed away. This time last year I was 4 months pregnant with Baby Bee. This time last year, Sweet Cheeks had just turned one. On this day last year, I gathered in a room full of family members and said good-bye to the greatest man I have ever known. <br />
<br />
One year ago I hugged my best friend good-bye for the last time.<br />
<br />
To be honest, I am still struggling with this. The part that I find the hardest is that after today I can't say that he was here "This time last year". I don't know why I have clung to that so much over the last year, but I have. It's somehow made it easier. Until today. Because after today I cannot say that anymore. After today, the "last years" become harder to face.<br />
<br />
August 10, 2010 was the day of the funeral. That was the last day I saw him and touched him.<br />
<br />
Today is a hard day. I've clung so hard to the "last years" memories and I don't know how to let go. This time last year was the hardest day of my life. This time last year was the day my heart broke in half. This time last year I cried myself to sleep every night. This time last year I was prescribed sleeping pills because insomnia isn't healthy when you're pregnant. This time last year, Rowen was still wearing the shoes Papa Joe bought for his 1st birthday. This time last year I was working with the Red Cross to get my brother home on emergency leave. He was planning to go to Iraq with his fellow Army comrades any day. This time last year I prayed for a miracle that would never come.<br />
<br />
This time last year, Papa Joe was set free from all of the pain.<br />
<br />
This time last year.Mrs. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00276307109532750879noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6208546881706256836.post-60117347313972819802011-07-22T06:43:00.000-05:002011-07-22T06:43:16.514-05:00Dear Rowen,Dear Rowen,<br />
<br />
My little Sweet Cheeks. 2 years ago you came into our lives and nothing has been the same since. You made us parents. You made us a family. I love you more than I knew it was possible to love someone.<br />
<br />
Today you turn 2! You can run, jump, and play. You can say please (pease), hi (hiiiiiiiiiii!), daddy (da-daah), mama (mamaaamaama), Davis (dede) and many other words. You attempt to say everything we say. Sometimes it comes out right & sometimes we have a good laugh. You are wide-eyed and bushy tailed. You love to explore and to be outside. You love to swim. You love to play with cars, trucks, and blocks. You love to spray Daddy with the garden hose. You have the sweetest laugh. You love hot dogs & to take long walks. You love to go to the park & the zoo. You love to travel anywhere in the car. You have a smile that lights up the whole room.<br />
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I hope you never lose the part of you that sings in the shower. I hope you always laugh out loud when something humors you. I hope your eyes always light up when you see your brother. Never let go of the magic inside of you. You can do anything you want to do. You can be anything you want to be. You are an incredible little man and I know you will be a positive force in all of the lives you touch. <br />
<br />
My sweet Rowen. Today you are 2! The whole world is out there to explore. & My hope is that you never become complacent until you explore everything you can. Dig! Kick! Build! Laugh! Share!<br />
<br />
Happy Birthday, Sweet Cheeks.<br />
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Love always,<br />
MamaMrs. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00276307109532750879noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6208546881706256836.post-38978466246284553612011-07-18T06:39:00.000-05:002011-07-18T06:39:45.137-05:00Dear Davis.Dear Davis,<br />
<br />
Our little blond eyed wonder child. It's hard to believe that you are 6 months old today. When I found out I was pregnant with you I was terrified. I had no idea how we would be able to go from one child to two. I was nervous about time, and energy, and money and love. I wanted to be able to offer all of those things to you in abundance. I wanted to offer you everything wonderful and good out of life. I never doubted wanting you. I only doubted myself and my ability to care for two very young children.<br />
<br />
But, Davis, we made it. We beat that Devil's Disease called "Colic". And we love you more each new day. You have been the perfect addition to our family and we are so blessed to have you. You can crawl. You are very vocal about your displeasure. You are always on the go. You love to play with the dogs. You love to chew on my toes. (yuck!) You love bananas and hate sweet potatoes. You love bath time & your jumperoo. You get annoyed if we are out of the house running errands for too long. You hate heat and love to cuddle. <br />
<br />
You are a child full of wonder. You want to touch, see, lick, hold, chew and throw everything you come in contact with. You are almost always laughing and smiling during play time. It's a pleasure to be in your company & I hope that you learn as much from me as I am learning from you. Happy 6-month day, Baby Bee. <br />
<br />
Love always,<br />
MamaMrs. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00276307109532750879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6208546881706256836.post-10667572252154243392011-05-01T09:02:00.003-05:002011-05-01T16:13:17.188-05:00Prayers & Coffee.I got an email today from a friend asking me how we are surviving with 2 kids. {Davis is now almost 4 months old and Rowen is 21 months old.} She said that she and her husband were thinking about adding another child and she was curious about what it was really like - financially, emotionally, etc.<br />
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<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">It's hard. It's a juggling act. We had to learn how to balance the needs of two children with the same amount of time it took to take care for one child. I'm still learning to get up and go on less than 4 hours of sleep. I have to remind myself daily that it won't be like this for long... Before I know it, they will be grown and I will want this time back. I try to take time to really <strong>enjoy </strong>them and not just try to make it through the day. We buy and drink A LOT of coffee. A lot. Our <a href="http://www.keurig.com/shop/brewers/all-brewers">Keurig</a> gets a lot of use these days. I shower when I can, eat when I can, and sleep when I can.</div><br />
Financially is the easiest part, honestly. I use coupons. I buy used. Davis wears a lot of Rowen's old clothes. I use Swag Bucks for $5 Amazon gift cards that go towards diapers, baby cereal, baby food, or other "needs". We eat home cooked meals instead of going out. Since having Davis, our expenses have increased about $50 a month.<br />
<br />
And, I pray. I pray things like "Dear Lord, please allow my children to sleep. I will do <u>anything</u>. I will cut my left arm off with a dull rusty spoon if that's what it takes." or "Dear Lord, make him stop crying. Please. Please! Please?" or "Bless this house. Bless our children. Bless our family." The type of prayer depends on the day {or night} we've had here in the B house. <br />
<br />
If you don't use Swag Bucks, you should! Check it out by clicking on the banner below.<br />
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<a href="http://swagbucks.com/refer/BRANBAS" target="_top"><img alt="Search & Win" border="0" src="http://prodegebanners.sitegrip.com/images/swagbucks-468x60.jpg" title="Search & Win" /></a><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">{Disclaimer: I'm not an expert. I'm just a mom with two kids trying to do the best I can. Please do not substitute my advice/opinions for your own}</span></div><div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Mrs. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00276307109532750879noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6208546881706256836.post-85057929318732354232011-04-19T15:12:00.002-05:002011-04-19T15:14:23.826-05:00Don't stop by unannounced.<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">I hope that my child, looking back on today</span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Will remember a mother who had time to play; </span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">Because children grow up while you're not looking,</span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">There are years ahead for cleaning and cooking.</span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">So, quiet now cobwebs, dust go to sleep.</span></em><br />
<em><span style="font-size: x-small;">I'm rocking my baby, and babies don't keep.</span></em><br />
<div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Don't stop by our house unannounced during the day. If you do, keep the above poem in mind. The living room where we play usually looks like a tornado just touched down. We are busy playing Lego's and hide and go seek. We are busy being outside in the sunshine. We spend our mornings cuddled on the couch watching cartoons. Some days we spend the entire day in pajamas building mega block towers.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">My floors are not swept. My showers haven't seen a good scrub in too long. Sometimes there are dishes in the sink. Sometimes there's dust on our bookshelves.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">We like to take long walks in the afternoon. We like to draw on the sidewalk with chalk. We like to look out the window at the "Mow-Mows" {cats} We love to wrestle and have tickle fights.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>So, sorry dust and cobwebs. You'll just have to wait. I'm making it a priority to REALLY enjoy my babies. <span style="font-size: large;">Babies don't keep</span>.</strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"></div>Mrs. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00276307109532750879noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6208546881706256836.post-74416424536830761162011-04-18T19:18:00.001-05:002011-04-18T19:41:01.466-05:00If I only knew then...If I only knew then what I know now, I would have loved you better. <br />
I would have hugged you longer. <br />
I would have spent every moment with you. <br />
I would have prayed for you {with you} more often. <br />
I would have kept you closer. <br />
I would have apologized for every sharp word that hurt you. <br />
I would have listened closer. <br />
I would have memorized the laugh lines on your face.<br />
I would have made sure you knew how much you meant to me. <br />
I would have told you that you changed my life.<br />
<br />
I find myself living this year in the past tense. Such as, "This time last year, my grandpa was..." Or, "This time last year was his last birthday/holiday/etc." It's been 8 1/2 months now since he passed away and I can't seem to let go of last year. I don't want to let go of last year. I'm clinging to these final memories harder than I should be. This time last year was his last Easter. This time last year I got pregnant with Davis. This time last year we were getting ready to travel to the beach. This time last year he only had 4 months left. And we had no idea.<br />
<br />
I would give anything to be able to go back to this time last year. I don't have any regrets. I know how much he loved me, and vice verse, because we told each other every day. I saw him almost everyday. I hugged him every time I saw him. I'm not living in regret. I just.... miss him. There are still moments I get half way through his phone number before I realize he won't answer this time. <br />
<br />
Some days are harder than others. Some days I am able to think of him and laugh. I will remember something he said, or did, or loved and I will stop and smile. Some days I have to stop and sit for a minute because the memory hits me like a brick and I lose my breath for a second or two. And then there are the moments where I swear I can still feel him close by. I live for the moments where I can still feel his presence. I still need that.<br />
<br />
If I only knew then what I know now, I would have taken the time to really laugh with you.<br />
I would have watched one more baseball game with you.<br />
I would have really enjoyed your sense of humor. <br />
I would have laughed longer at your jokes.<br />
<br />
I'm still missing you.Mrs. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00276307109532750879noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6208546881706256836.post-79068543461078917652011-04-12T10:07:00.000-05:002011-04-12T10:07:40.916-05:00So, was it planned?<strong>So, was it planned?</strong><br />
<br />
<strong>You know, the two small children less than a year and a half apart.</strong><br />
<br />
I get asked this question a lot. I guess most people assumed that only crazy people plan their children less than half a year apart. The crazy thing might actually be true, all things considered. Some days are so hectic I feel like I might be starting to go crazy, or gray, or both.<br />
<br />
Nonetheless... The answer I always give is "Yes. He was."<br />
<br />
The truth behind the answer is this... No, my husband and I did not plan to get pregnant when our oldest was 8 months old. No, we did not plan to live our lives in this chaotic state for several years to come. Yes, he was planned. By God. By someone higher than ourselves. We truly believe that.<br />
<br />
Yes, he was planned. No, not by us.<br />
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I love and adore both of my sweet boys and I cannot imagine life without them. Some days are <strong>hard</strong>. Most days are <strong>busy</strong>. Every day is filled with <strong>love</strong>.<br />
<br />
No,<u> we</u> didn't plan this. <br />
<br />
But, aren't the most amazing things in life often unplanned?Mrs. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00276307109532750879noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6208546881706256836.post-66140378986961981032011-04-11T17:57:00.001-05:002011-04-11T18:56:06.130-05:00We had a miscarriage.<strong>We had a miscarriage.</strong><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">No, Not recently.</span> We had a miscarriage in December 2007. We had a miscarriage 3 1/2 years ago. Typing the words, and retelling this story, is a strange experience.<br />
<br />
On one hand I am extremely <strong>sad</strong> for the loss. My heart hurts and aches for the child we lost... for the chance we lost... for the piece of innocence we lost. It rattles my soul and tugs at my being when I recall what happened. I cried for months after it happened and went through all of the <em>What ifs?</em> in my mind.<br />
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On the other hand? I am <strong>thankful</strong>. I am thankful for the loss that led us to our two very sweet boys. I am thankful that we had another year to grow as a couple before we saw those 2 pink lines again. I'm thankful for the lessons we learned and for the bond we formed. We are the only two people who know how it felt in that moment, as we sat next to each other and listened to the Dr on the other end of the phone...<br />
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I don't know exactly when we started talking about having kids. I do know when we got our very first positive on the pregnancy test. It was a few days after Obama won the presidential election. It was a Saturday. I woke up feeling awful that day. I didn't really think I was pregnant, but I thought it would be sort of exciting to go buy a pregnancy test and take it. So, that's what I did. I went to the local grocery store in my sweat pants and messy hair to buy a pregnancy test on a whim. I really don't know what made me decide to make the purchase on that cold Saturday in November, but we had the shock of our lives when we saw an extra line. We laughed... and then cried.. and then laughed again. I'm sure I threw up somewhere in there, too.<br />
<br />
From 2 pink lines to a devastating phone call one month later... Both times full of tears... we survived.<br />
<br />
That's truly how it feels. It feels like we survived. We made it through. We fought blood, sweat and tears to make it to the other side... and we have. It's taken us 2 children & 3 1/2 years to get here. But we did.<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="font-size: large;">We had a miscarriage.</span></strong><br />
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<strong>And we survived.</strong>Mrs. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00276307109532750879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6208546881706256836.post-50346858303096010662011-02-25T19:01:00.000-06:002011-02-25T19:01:44.649-06:00Do you feel this way too?Sometimes I feel like I've lost myself. I get caught up in the day-to-day and I forget who I am. I forget who I used to be. I forget about the things I used to enjoy. <br />
<br />
Sometimes I feel like I am in over my head. I feel like having 2 small children is overwhelming. I feel like I struggle some days.<br />
<br />
Sometimes I need a break. I need 15 minutes to run to Starbucks. But then I realize it will take 20 minutes to get the kids ready to leave and it's almost lunch time/nap time/bath time and it's not possible.<br />
<br />
Sometimes when I look into the mirror I see a glimpse of who I used to be and I miss her. But, I am going to get back to "me". The me I lost when I became "Mommy".<br />
<br />
Sometimes I miss my Grandpa so much it hurts. I have moments when it hurts to breathe. <br />
<br />
Sometimes I wish I knew then what I know now. And then I realize that even if I did know then what I know now, I wouldn't change a thing.<br />
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Sometimes I feel like the luckiest person alive. I feel like I've been blessed far more than I deserve. And I feel like I take it for granted.<br />
<br />
Sometimes I feel like life is really, really hard. <br />
Sometimes I feel like everything is going to be OK. <br />
Sometimes I feel like I am surrounded by the most amazing people and I am extremely lucky.<br />
Sometimes I am a walking contradiction.Mrs. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00276307109532750879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6208546881706256836.post-19694456421544704532011-02-24T14:30:00.000-06:002011-02-24T14:30:36.379-06:00Amazon MOM: Rave!I have two small children, so it's no secret that I go through A LOT of diapers. I order a box of diapers {Huggies} per child, every 2-3 weeks. <br />
<br />
We buy 3-4 boxes of diapers a month. That's a lot of diapers, y'all. <br />
<br />
Recently I discovered <a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/mom/signup/welcome">Amazon Mom</a>. It's a service provided by <a href="http://amazon.com/">Amazon.com</a> to give moms a little price break when it comes to frequently used baby items. It's FREE to sign up and offers FREE 2 day shipping on most items. I say "most" because it doesn't cover everything, but it does include a lot of items.<br />
<br />
If you sign up for Amazon Mom {save 15%} & also choose the "Subscribe and save" option {save 15%- Just remember to "unsubscribe" when you receive your items} you will save <strong>30%</strong>!!<br />
<br />
To make this deal even sweeter, <strong>you can stack a 20% off diapers on Amazon coupon with the 30% off</strong>. You can find these coupons in most parenting magazines. Some of my favorites to browse through: <a href="http://www.parenting.com/">Parenting</a>, <a href="http://www.parents.com/">Parents</a>, <a href="http://www.parenting.com/Babytalk/babytalk.jsp?genID=7">Baby Talk</a>, <a href="http://www.parents.com/american-baby-magazine/">American Baby</a>. <br />
<br />
I often find these magazines <u>FREE</u> at the Doctors office, in waiting rooms, or at the local children's consignment shop. <br />
<br />
These savings add up to be about $20/per box diapers... Or $60-$80 a month!! That's a A LOT of money!Mrs. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00276307109532750879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6208546881706256836.post-57666305789251965792011-02-22T07:49:00.000-06:002011-02-22T07:49:07.483-06:00Baby Bee {Davis}Davis.<br />
<br />
Our sweet newborn baby.<br />
<br />
One day you'll ask me where your name came from. How we chose it. If there's any meaning behind it.<br />
<br />
Here is the story I will tell you.<br />
<br />
Papa Joe chose it. <br />
<br />
During the last few days, hours, minutes of his life I spent as much time at the hospital with Papa Joe as I could. I spent time just sitting next to the hospital bed, praying, and listening to the monitors. In those last days there were times where Papa Joe was completely coherent and carrying on conversation. During one of those moments someone asked him what he thought I should name the baby. <span style="color: black;"><strong>David</strong></span>.<br />
<br />
David was the name of my uncle who passed away a few years ago. David and Papa Joe were best friends. Brothers <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(In-law)</span>. Fishing buddies. Jokesters. One <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(two)</span> in a million type of people.<br />
<br />
We changed the name "David" to Davis for a couple of reasons. 1} To give you your own name. Your own identity. 2} To make the name slightly more unique.<br />
<br />
Davis, as you go through life always remember you have a very special name. You have a name that was chosen with love and that represents two amazing men. Your name is more than just a name, it's a memory. It's a legacy. You are such an amazing little boy and I know that Papa Joe <span style="font-size: xx-small;">(and David)</span> would be so proud of you.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><strong>Davis Joe</strong></span>. Our sweet little blessing. Carry your name with honor.Mrs. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00276307109532750879noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6208546881706256836.post-24619455056067301592011-02-21T09:35:00.000-06:002011-02-21T09:35:53.942-06:00I haven't been blogging.I haven't been blogging. Well, that's not entirely true. I have been writing posts, but they will never be published. There are posts I write to share, and posts I write to write. Last summer, I had to say goodbye to my grandfather. It was heartbreaking. It was a struggle to go through such a loss and to also remain healthy because I was pregnant. The past 6 months have been <strong>HARD</strong>. And, honestly? The posts about raw pain are incredibly difficult to write and are not enjoyable to read. So, those difficult posts have been tucked away for now. Maybe one day I will share them, maybe they will remain private. Only time will tell.<br />
<br />
So. I haven't been blogging. <br />
<br />
I thought long and hard about the direction I wanted my blog to take. Here's what I've decided: I'm going to return to the blogging world. I'm going to keep writing about our life and our children. I'm going to keep writing letters to Sweet Cheeks and Baby Bee. I'm going to continue telling our story.<br />
<br />
Here we go. Blogging. Again.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjio5uh9PEeMHwFE_xIIkaVowWLHRSBXbn8bK2Nkm6_cEHiU5wEcDP0IWkWSN1mMf4F9Z6bm-ITGE9nfz2uf9LS0VhFh0pbmN-gznSRN1ENB5q31MyjfA0EqwHgiqMhSoqrEqXq7q1qA_c/s1600/BasingerB_LZ303-ISEZMJV_01.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" j6="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjio5uh9PEeMHwFE_xIIkaVowWLHRSBXbn8bK2Nkm6_cEHiU5wEcDP0IWkWSN1mMf4F9Z6bm-ITGE9nfz2uf9LS0VhFh0pbmN-gznSRN1ENB5q31MyjfA0EqwHgiqMhSoqrEqXq7q1qA_c/s200/BasingerB_LZ303-ISEZMJV_01.jpg" width="133" /></a></div>xoxoMrs. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00276307109532750879noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6208546881706256836.post-1832359306493374602010-09-01T20:07:00.000-05:002010-09-01T20:07:07.437-05:00A letter to Heaven.A letter to <a href="http://lifewithsweetcheeks.blogspot.com/2010/08/goodbye.html">Papa Joe</a>. <br />
<br />
Sometimes I think everything is going to be OK. Sometimes I doubt that things will ever be normal again. Can you read blogs in Heaven? Do you know how many times I've tried to talk to you, before I remember you are not there to answer? I'm selfish and I feel like I still need you... I haven't learned all of your recipes yet.. I still have hugs for you.. I don't know how to check the oil in the Van for you. I need more time with you. More time to learn everything that you know. More time to buy you Christmas gifts, and to sit on the porch and talk about life. I need just one more phone call from you that starts off with "Baby girl, how are you?". I just want to sit on your lap and kiss your cheek and tell you how much I love you. I don't know how I am going to do everything without you. I don't know how I'm going to hold back from calling you when we find out the sex of Baby Bee, or when Sweet Cheeks is potty trained, or when we finally decide to go refrigerator shopping. I've always liked your opinions the best. I don't know how my heart is going to continue to beat with this crack in it. What am I supposed to do on Sunday mornings now? That was our time... Me, you, and Sweet Cheeks. How do I fill that time? I can't replace you. <br />
<br />
I just don't know how to keep going without you...Mrs. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00276307109532750879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6208546881706256836.post-26054751040948696102010-08-16T18:13:00.000-05:002010-08-16T18:13:25.645-05:00Goodbye.<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #999999;">Papa Joe</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #999999;">3/15/43-8/5/10</span></div><br />
Dear Sweet Cheeks & Baby Bee,<br />
<br />
This is a hard letter to write. Somehow writing it here makes it seem so final... more real that I am ready to accept. On August 5th, Papa Joe went to be with the Lord. He was the most amazing man I have ever met. I always felt I was lucky and so blessed to have him in my life. He was a man of integrity, and passion. He would always stand up for his family, and he loved his great-grand babies endlessly. <br />
<br />
I never had a "dad". Not one worth mentioning, anyway. But Papa Joe stepped in to fill that role in my life. He taught me to drive a car. He took me prom dress shopping. He loaned me gas money when I was short. He answered the phone every time I got lost, needed advice, or didn't know which ingredients I needed at the grocery store. & Sometimes those calls came late at night, early in the morning, or multiple times a day. He was the one standing next to me on my wedding day... and every day before and after. <br />
<br />
Sweet Cheeks, the day you were born, he was so excited. He sat around at the hospital all day waiting for your arrival. It was hard for him since he didn't have his oxygen with him. But he did it. Papa Joe couldn't wait to meet you, and he was one of the first ones in the room to hold you. He loved you so, so much. He bragged about you to anyone who would listen, and carried a picture of you with him in his wallet. He called you "Row-man", "His pride and joy". He taught you to sit up, and to climb on the couch. He gave you your first taste of chocolate. You loved to give him hugs and kisses as soon as you saw him. He got such a kick out of you.<br />
<br />
I wish he could be here to watch you both grow. He wanted nothing more than to spend as much time as possible surrounded by family. I have photos saved to show you when you are older... We'll sit on the front porch with a cup of coffee and some old pictures and remember the amazing man called Papa Joe.<br />
<br />
Love always,<br />
MamaMrs. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00276307109532750879noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6208546881706256836.post-38160674683951929462010-07-21T17:11:00.001-05:002010-07-21T17:16:46.847-05:00HAPPY 1ST BIRTHDAY SWEET CHEEKS!<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #999999;">"And now you're my whole life...</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #999999;"></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #999999;"><br />
</span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="color: #999999;">Now you're my whole world..." - Brad Paisley ("Then")</span></div><br />
<br />
Dear Sweet Cheeks,<br />
<br />
Tomorrow you turn ONE. Tomorrow is your very first birthday, and as much as I deny it, I am a crying mess thinking about this letter. Truth is, Ive been putting it off in order to slow down time... Its not working. Ive been pleading with the clock to stall before it hits 4:57pm tomorrow. Please, time? I'm not ready.<br />
<br />
I hope that you always dance. When you hear music, you instantly start swaying and jumping around. You make up your own songs, and say "Uhmm" in the car when you want the radio turned on. I hope you always have that extra beat in your step. <br />
<br />
I love the way you know exactly what you want and you do what it takes to get it. Grab this life with both hands and go for every dream in your heart. Never settle. Never accept a "No" that should be a "Yes". Life is everything that you make it... So make it perfect. Build a life that you love living. I will take over that part for the next 17 years, if you'll allow me to.<br />
<br />
I love being your mom. I love being "Mammmaaamama". One year ago tomorrow is the day you made me a Mom. You are nothing short of everything I always wanted. You are so wanted. You are so loved. Happy 1st Birthday. <br />
<br />
All of my love. Today & Always.<br />
Mama<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh0vfPF-dW7sD6h-OiQ04PwvZIUUsh7iMrtAiR6IJIhKdQKJ3PJ_-m7Aow980et9xmhyphenhyphen4ICYOM1j8hGyfK2Se_nHul445gNGrbehVSZrWMRKLdy77gfytN_xyozUbHZFf4JJQssypn9m8/s1600/BALLOONS.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" hw="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhh0vfPF-dW7sD6h-OiQ04PwvZIUUsh7iMrtAiR6IJIhKdQKJ3PJ_-m7Aow980et9xmhyphenhyphen4ICYOM1j8hGyfK2Se_nHul445gNGrbehVSZrWMRKLdy77gfytN_xyozUbHZFf4JJQssypn9m8/s320/BALLOONS.jpg" /></a></div>Mrs. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00276307109532750879noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6208546881706256836.post-84386467353036401712010-07-05T18:06:00.000-05:002010-07-05T18:06:55.020-05:00Updates on my sweet babies!<strong><span style="color: red; font-size: large;">Updates on Baby Bee</span></strong>:<br />
<br />
How far along are you? <strong>12 weeks, 2 days</strong><br />
When is your due date? <strong>January 15, 2011</strong><br />
<br />
Do you have any morning sickness? <strong>Yes, I still have terrible morning sickness. I tried <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Phenergan</span> and it didn't help, so I am now on <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Zofran</span>. It helps to take the edge off and it keeps me from throwing up (usually). I'm still not feeling great, but hopefully soon.</strong><br />
<br />
Do you think you are having a boy or a girl? <strong>I feel like it's a boy</strong><br />
<br />
Do you have a name picked out? <strong>Not even close. I need some ideas! :)</strong><br />
<br />
How much weight have you gained? <strong>I haven't gained any pregnancy weight. I gained weight when I quit working out and counting calories. I'm up 4 lbs since I took the pregnancy test.</strong><br />
<br />
Have you felt the baby move? <strong>Not yet.</strong><br />
<br />
<br />
<strong><span style="color: blue; font-size: large;">Updates on Sweet Cheeks</span></strong>:<br />
<br />
Sweet Cheeks is WALKING! He rarely crawls anymore. He is trying to run now, but that usually results in him crashing to the ground. Then getting back up, and trying again! We are planning his first birthday party. SC turns 1 on the 22nd of this month. I'm having a hard time wrapping my mind around having a one year old, but I am so excited to watch him grow. He currently has his 2nd ear infection in as many months so he's been a little out of sorts. Tomorrow we will try a new medicine and hopefully he will be feeling better soon.<br />
<br />
________________________________________<br />
<br />
Well, that's what we have been up to. I've been baking a baby and chasing a walking kiddo. :) Life is getting very, very busy... and more amazing by the day!Mrs. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00276307109532750879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6208546881706256836.post-74007503661582971712010-06-28T17:54:00.001-05:002010-06-28T18:25:36.392-05:00Letters to myself.<div style="text-align: center;">Dear Brandi (<strong>age 5</strong>):</div><div style="text-align: center;">Look at the <span class="goog-spellcheck-word" goog-spell-original="blonde">blond</span> girl sitting next to you. The one with pig tails and rainbow colored sandals. She's going to become family to you. <span class="goog-spellcheck-word" goog-spell-original="Eventhough">Even though</span> you will lose touch down the road, she is shaping who you are. You will not become who you are meant to be without her. You will be there with her as she starts dating her future husband, and you will stand next to her at her wedding. <strong>Trust her</strong>. And tell her when she hurts you. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Dear Brandi (<strong>age 12</strong>):</div><div style="text-align: center;">Jr High. This is a tough year. Know that everyone is feeling as insecure as you. You are pretty. You are good enough. You are smart. Embrace your awkward laugh and curly hair. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>He does not matter</strong>. He is only trying to tear you down because it makes him feel more like a man. His actions do not determine your self worth. You will always remember those moments, but they don't have to control you. Not every man acts that way. It's <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">ok</span> to forgive. It's <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">ok</span> to remember. It's not <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">ok</span> to carry this fear with you into other relationships. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Dear Brandi (<strong>age 18</strong>):</div><div style="text-align: center;">Senior year of High School! All you want to do is "get out of this town!". You want to break free and see the world and experience everything. You are not ready. Stick around that sleepy little town for awhile longer. Spend as much time as you can with your friends. Drive around town with the windows down, and the music up, as often as you can. Soon you won't know anyone there and won't have a reason to go back. But <strong>you'll miss it</strong>. </div><div style="text-align: center;">The prom dress is a <em>great</em> idea. It's beautiful and you won't regret it when you look back on pictures later. The prom date was a good choice too. He will move on, and so will you, but you will remain friends. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Cherish every moment with your mom. You do not have much more time to enjoy her before her accident.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Wear a bikini as much as possible. After 2 back-to-back pregnancies you may never wear a bikini again. Enjoy it now! Embrace your youth. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Dear Brandi (<strong>age 19</strong>):</div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>He's not worth it. </strong>Let him fly. It's not about you. Nothing you can do will change the situation. It is easier to make a clean break, and to move on. He was only in your life for a season. He's not "the one". Your heart will be broken, and you will cry when it doesn't work out. It's <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">ok</span> to be sad. Someone is going to tell you the phrase "Truth and time tell all". Carry this with you. Its a constant reminder that everything will be revealed in time. Be patient. Mend your heart. Move on.</div><div style="text-align: center;">You are about to meet someone who will make your toes tingle.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Your mom will survive. She will make it. But she won't be the same. Do everything you can for her. Be there. Tell her you love her. Recovery will be a long road for her and she needs you. She will be able to walk again (though the DRs are unsure). Her brain stem injury will take over and change everything.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Continue to wear the bikini as much as possible.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Dear Brandi (<strong>age 21</strong>):</div><div style="text-align: center;">Yes. <strong>He's the one</strong>. You've been together long enough now that you know this is something special. He's your Prince Charming on a white horse. He will save you from yourself more often than you can imagine. He will step up to the plate and he will make a great husband. It's <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">ok</span> if everyone else thinks you are too young to have that ring on your finger. You know that this real. You know that he's amazing. Plan the wedding. Buy the dress. Mail the save the dates. You are making the right choice. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Don't buy the house. You will be stuck in a bad investment when the economy crashes. Rent for awhile. Save the money.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Dear Brandi (<strong>age 24</strong>):</div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>You are about to be a mom. </strong>It's <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">ok</span> if you are nervous. It's <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">ok</span> to feel like you are not as prepared as you "should" be. You will be <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">ok</span>. The baby will be <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">ok</span>. Your life will be very different once he arrives. Right now you are thinking about all of the things you want to teach your children, and all of the things you want to do for them. You daydream and imagine what this baby in your belly will be like. Blond or Brown hair? Blue or Brown eyes? Tall or short? He's perfect. You have never known a love as true as the one you are about to know for your child. You will become a mama bear, and wear that badge with honor. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Try not to lose who you are when the baby arrives. You are still a wife, a woman, and a friend. It will be hard but make time for yourself. </div><div style="text-align: center;">Oh, and put that pizza down. Really. You'll be so glad you did.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Dear Brandi (<strong>age 26</strong>):</div><div style="text-align: center;"><strong>Life is good. </strong>Life is full of music, laughter, and love. That baby? He's almost a year old. He will be just shy of 18 months when the new baby arrives. 2 kids in less than a year and a half and a husband who offers unconditional love daily. You are very blessed and very loved. (And super busy!) Cherish those slobbery baby kisses. Cherish those first steps. Cherish the man who works hard to take such good care of you. Cherish the little one who will be in your arms soon. Life is too short not to cherish every moment.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">To join in, please go <a href="http://raisingmadison.com/2010/06/27/letters-to-my-former-self/">HERE</a>!</div>Mrs. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00276307109532750879noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6208546881706256836.post-13228602451314855012010-06-25T13:12:00.000-05:002010-06-25T13:12:39.058-05:00Winner! Winner! Winner! Part 2.Since the last winner never claimed her prize, I had a "re-draw" this morning.<br />
<br />
Congrats, <span style="font-size: large;">Samantha</span>!! (<a href="http://thesinkorswim.blogspot.com/">Sink or Swim</a>) Send me an email and we'll work out the details. <a href="mailto:LilsBas@gmail.com">LilsBas@gmail.com</a> <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: large;">If you didn't win, you still have another chance! Head on over to </span><a href="http://thecrunchybaby.blogspot.com/"><span style="font-size: large;">The Crunchy Baby</span></a><span style="font-size: large;"> and enter again! <span style="font-size: small;">I know you love FREE, so what are you waiting for?</span> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="font-size: x-small;">xoxo</span>Mrs. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00276307109532750879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6208546881706256836.post-83167918791778422592010-06-22T14:10:00.001-05:002010-06-22T14:11:19.361-05:00A new cuddly blanket. & A new friend.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZNQRFOdlP5PYwcYo0422oSsdD2Sd-V3lBjXVMBgJdngJj0s4-Tl-KqcFsgKUebDwVngzpbjAfpbmrMA6kZYfeqSNaP1MJRSKalOhD3I8roZ7Oxtalqdjg6NxqpNQ5pHHWQ0Hdl_Hnxdc/s1600/BotBlanket10-494x328.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" ru="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZNQRFOdlP5PYwcYo0422oSsdD2Sd-V3lBjXVMBgJdngJj0s4-Tl-KqcFsgKUebDwVngzpbjAfpbmrMA6kZYfeqSNaP1MJRSKalOhD3I8roZ7Oxtalqdjg6NxqpNQ5pHHWQ0Hdl_Hnxdc/s320/BotBlanket10-494x328.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Y'all. I have been working with the sweetest <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">blonde</span> designer. I asked her if she thought she could make a blanket for Sweet Cheeks.... And, well, a couple of months later, here were are.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">This blanket is <em>amazing</em></span>! It is so soft, and cuddly. Easy to wash.<span style="font-size: xx-small;"> (A must!)</span>. Cool in this Midwest heat. And <strong>FUN</strong>!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Plus, I made a new friend in the design process. Meet <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/coconutrobot?ga_search_query=coconut+robot&ga_search_type=seller_usernames">Coconut Robot</a>. She makes the most adorable baby items. I'm already eyeing the little boots for baby #2. She is great to work with, sweet as honey, and very creative. If you want something, she can make it happen. Right now she's working on Sweet Cheeks 1st birthday attire. And trust me, it's going to be dynamite. She is my new "go-to" lady for anything I need custom made.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">To hear more about how the blanket came to be, (Or to order one! ) check out her <a href="http://coconutrobotblog.com/2010/06/baby-bot-blankets/">BLOG</a>. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Mrs. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00276307109532750879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6208546881706256836.post-19214046296086430042010-06-14T08:04:00.003-05:002010-06-14T08:07:27.623-05:00I'm a McFatty drop-out.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqYAMSMqYNm0mOQcbQVkKBvexvh5V9PXPuemL2W1FHWu6ikv2nUxW87Fnb9x-w5-69dsZb9F8EHJkrl6oqvhWqpcAtORarN2dObuybjttcuCZCUXHT5SPEgBZeIQNmlfSUr859PkzTwe8/s1600/preg1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" qu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqYAMSMqYNm0mOQcbQVkKBvexvh5V9PXPuemL2W1FHWu6ikv2nUxW87Fnb9x-w5-69dsZb9F8EHJkrl6oqvhWqpcAtORarN2dObuybjttcuCZCUXHT5SPEgBZeIQNmlfSUr859PkzTwe8/s320/preg1.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://alterna-tickers.com/"><img alt="AlternaTickers - Cool, free Web tickers" border="0" src="http://alterna-tickers.com/tickers/generated_tickers/n/nvgrs0iqu.png" /></a></div>Mrs. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00276307109532750879noreply@blogger.com13tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6208546881706256836.post-79309854036738288332010-06-10T19:07:00.002-05:002010-06-10T19:08:44.129-05:00Winner! Winner! Winner!Congrats to <a href="http://thebeahans.blogspot.com/">Britt</a>! You've won The Green Bird <a href="http://lifewithsweetcheeks.blogspot.com/2010/05/giveaway.html">giveaway</a>! <br />
<br />
Please contact me within 24 hours to claim your prize... <a href="mailto:LilsBas@gmail.com">LilsBas@gmail.com</a><br />
<br />
There's still good news for those of you who didn't win... If you would like to place an order with <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/TheGreenBird">The green bird</a>, just mention that you are a "Life with Sweet Cheeks" reader in the comments section of the order form and recieve FREE shipping on your purchase!Mrs. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00276307109532750879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6208546881706256836.post-36466580707595722602010-06-09T13:50:00.000-05:002010-06-09T13:50:10.713-05:00Last Chance!!Today is your last day to enter the <a href="http://lifewithsweetcheeks.blogspot.com/2010/05/giveaway.html">GIVEAWAY</a>! :)<br />
<br />
I know you love free stuff, so check it out!Mrs. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00276307109532750879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6208546881706256836.post-8258402765460241452010-06-08T08:38:00.000-05:002010-06-08T08:38:00.938-05:00Guest Blog: The Crunchy BabyWelcome Jenny from <a href="http://thecrunchybaby.blogspot.com/">The Crunchy Baby</a>! Jenny is an Eco-friendly, Whole foods shopping mama to the very handsome Lucas. She struggled to conceive with <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">PCOS</span> for awhile, but finally got pregnant last year! Lucas is now 9 months old and cute as can be. She is also an <a href="http://www.etsy.com/shop/thegreenbird"><span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Etsy</span> shop</a> owner. Stop by and visit her shop... she has some amazing items! <span style="font-size: x-small;">**P.S. Don't forget about the giveaway that ends TOMORROW!**</span><br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi77OKRmFQj-3mQJUrQ5crKXaUUYu9yREODSsbU4AL2gIDYGyf8Sf5Z5BB5h5KdbjCEtTJ60ujVbD3ThDn9ZxVRPXay1StGejbA0kuhpJ-zT0MaPdTWZa5lKRS786TsR8nb5EqvI9dCmz0/s1600/welcome8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gu="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi77OKRmFQj-3mQJUrQ5crKXaUUYu9yREODSsbU4AL2gIDYGyf8Sf5Z5BB5h5KdbjCEtTJ60ujVbD3ThDn9ZxVRPXay1StGejbA0kuhpJ-zT0MaPdTWZa5lKRS786TsR8nb5EqvI9dCmz0/s320/welcome8.jpg" /></a><a href="http://thecrunchybaby.blogspot.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="The Crunchy Baby" border="0" src="http://i224.photobucket.com/albums/dd240/JenniferCruger/button1.jpg" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">~*~*~*~*~</div><br />
When Brandi first asked me to guest blog, tons of ideas ran through my head. But nothing I stopped on was quite what I was looking for. The realizations that come with being a mother? Old and tired. Blogs about breastfeeding versus formula feeding? Been there, done that. You get the picture. <br />
But then I landed upon something that I am constantly thinking about and struggling with. FOOD. If you read my blog you know that I’ve been struggling so much lately with this. Do I eat dairy? Give up gluten? Give up animal products? What do I feel my son? Do I want to live on just vegetables alone? More importantly, CAN I stick a vegan, mostly raw diet for long? (The answer to that one is no, not for more than a couple days, so really what good does it do me?) <br />
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Yup, something that simple. FOOD. Is it the enemy or is it our ticket to health? <br />
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For so long I wasn’t sure. <br />
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I wasn’t always fat. I actually used to be the “tiny one” among my group of friends. I still am if you go by height. But weight? Ha. That’s another story. Even during my pregnancy I didn’t feel fat until the very end. I gained weight like I was supposed to (and was all belly) up until around my 3rd trimester when all of a sudden my body packed on those pounds. I couldn’t even blame it on the baby. At 38 weeks I delivered a 4.5 lb little boy. <br />
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Yet here I am, 9 months later, and still about 40 lbs over the weight I should be and 30 lbs over my <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">pre</span> pregnancy weight. The saddest part? With the exception of a few random shots when he was first born (in which it’s okay to look fat and ugly, I guess?) I have absolutely ZERO photos of my son and me together. Heartbreaking.<br />
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In the past (when I thought I was overweight, ha!) I tried a variety of diets. Which is funny because I am the first to say, “diets don’t work” and “you should just eat healthy and make a lifestyle change”. But what the hell does that mean? <br />
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I thought I accomplished that “lifestyle change” when I learned more about whole foods and organic foods over the past few years. (Yeah, I am that girl… “eat organic!!!”) But I recently came to the realization that while eating as much organic food as you can is great, I’m not doing myself any favors by the constant cheating. A little here and a little there adds up. And I don’t just mean eating something that isn’t organic, because, let’s be real, it’s very hard to do that 100% of the time and I don’t think we absolutely need to. But eating fried foods, processed/white <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">carbs</span>, etc. was easily sneaking into my diet as well. <br />
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Take ‘Qdoba Tuesday’. My husband and I, for the past year or so, have been eating <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Qdoba</span> every Tuesday night because you get double points on your card on Tuesdays and end up with a lot of free meals. But are they free? What price was I paying for them? And telling myself, “well at least it’s not McDonald’s” wasn’t helping either. Let’s take a look at my beloved <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Qdoba</span> burrito, shall we?<br />
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-Monster size white flour tortilla <br />
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-white rice (with God knows what added to flavor it)<br />
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-grilled non organic chicken (what seasonings are on that? What kind of oil?)<br />
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-non organic beans, possibly coming from a can containing <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">BPA</span><br />
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-salsas which include things like non organic tomatoes and also corn which is not only not organic, but almost definitely genetically modified<br />
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-non organic cheese (would you like some added hormones with your burrito?)<br />
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There it is. My “healthy” eating out.<br />
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Really? REALLY? What was I thinking? <br />
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I could say I knew it all along, but it’s really sunk in since I began reading Jillian Michaels’ book, Master Your Metabolism. (I know, I don’t like the gimmick of it either and though “what the hell does she know about proper nutrition”after watching what they push on The Biggest Loser. But really, she gets it. She’s looked at the research. She believes that all the crap in our food is hurting us). The “diet” is really quite simple. Get rid of all the crap we eat and then eat real, whole, organic whenever possible (esp meat and dairy) foods. Everything else is totally effing with our hormones. Two things (among MANY diseases and issues) that can happen from having your hormones out of whack? <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Polycystic</span> Ovarian Syndrome (<span class="goog-spellcheck-word">PCOS</span>) and Auto Immune Diseases. Guess who has both? <br />
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So how about I start being honest with myself? The $200 trip to Whole Foods purchasing a cart full of organic foods does nothing while rotting in my fridge while I go out to eat at <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Qdoba</span> and other various ways still continuing to eat. I will admit it, I threw away about $20 worth of organic chicken a couple weeks ago because we didn’t get around to making it or freezing it time, most likely due to ordering in or eating out somewhere. Don’t get me wrong, I certainly don’t think a splurge every now and then is going to kill me or make me pack these 40 lbs back on once I lose them, but multiple times a week? Not good. <br />
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The food companies have us addicted to things like trans fats, MSG, high fructose corn syrup, artificial sweeteners (oh yeah, I am a recovering Diet Coke addict – about 6 years clean) and other artificial chemical additives and colors. We have to say no! We have to realize that it’s not the extra fat in an avocado that’s hurting us, but the fake foods and fake crap added to foods with think are healthy. Foods that shouldn’t even be considered food anymore. We’ve been so fooled. <br />
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I used to be really jealous of those girls who stayed naturally skinny while stuffing their face full of complete junk (I won’t lie, hearing that ‘pop’ of a can of Diet Coke opening makes my mouth water most times and walking past Cheetos at Target is akin to some sick form of torture) and okay, and maybe I still am a little jealous of their perfect looking bodies, but maybe I should be thankful I have a body that forces me to eat healthy. Maybe my son will grow up without all of these chemical in his body and avoid disease. Maybe in the long run I will be better off because I stopped putting junk in my body and started treating it right? And I don’t mean buying my organic veggies and then stopping at <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">Qdoba</span> on the way home for dinner.<br />
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~*~*~*~*~Mrs. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00276307109532750879noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6208546881706256836.post-91768616477740605922010-06-07T08:00:00.000-05:002010-06-07T08:00:02.428-05:00Guest Blog: Mrs ChandlerWelcome, Mrs Chandler from <a href="http://charminglychandler.com/">Charmingly Chandler</a>! Mrs Chandler is a military wife and mama to a pretty little girl named Sophia. She's a stay at home mom who recently started a weight loss journey. <span style="font-size: x-small;">(Check it out every Monday) </span><span style="font-size: small;">Today she's going to talk about that juggling act we call motherhood.</span><br />
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Women. Mothers. Sisters. Daughters.<br />
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We manage to be a bigger enemy to ourselves than other are to us. We feel like we never measure up fully. We aren't funny enough, pretty enough, smart enough, multi-<span class="goog-spellcheck-word">taskable</span> enough. I haven't done the research, but I think it's safe to say that we buy more self-help books than guys. We want to be better cooks, better girlfriends, better friends, better at work....and we stress about it. We dwell on it. We obsess about it. Once we become mothers all of this own-worst-enemy business gets about a trillion times worse. We are then responsible for a whole new life. We have a billion new things that we have to measure up on. And with all the Mommy Judgement out there, it is NO shocker that we feel the need to balance perfection.<br />
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I'd like to brag about how I'm above it, how I can't be bothered with such pettiness as trying to achieve woman perfection. But I am in the thick of it. I am a constant thread of thoughts. For every judgment women pass on each other there's about 10 more that a woman judges herself on. Things we don't even take note of on each other.<br />
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The things that keep me from buying out the entire self-help section of the local book store? My friends. The friends that don't have to listen, but do. The friends that openly share their war stories. The ones that don't brag about the three course meal they made for their family, while mentioning in an after-thought how they polished the silver too. It comes down to surrounding yourself with good people. Not the haters, the braggers, the negative Nancy's. I do my best to avoid the people that have a herds of drama llamas follow them everywhere they go (llamas are herds right? I don't want to google...so just go with it). It was a hard lesson to learn, but the constant internal dialog that tells me I'm not measuring up is so much worse when the people to my left and right are talking trash about the girl who just can't keep up with life.<br />
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Am I ever going to be able to balance the housework, the play time, the social life, the errands, the cooking, the hobbies, and raising children the way I imagine Mrs. Perfect <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">SAHM</span>/<span class="goog-spellcheck-word">HW</span> does? Ha! Am I always going to think 'If there were just 3 more hours today, I'd be able to get it all done'? Probably. But am I working hard to be a better cheerleader for myself and less of an enemy? <span class="goog-spellcheck-word">ABSO</span>-Freaking-<span class="goog-spellcheck-word">LUTELY</span>.Mrs. Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/00276307109532750879noreply@blogger.com1