Most moms will know exactly what I'm talking about.
Woke up last night to Emmy puking on our bed. Yes, on our bed, while we were in it. Nothing like waking up to that gagging hacking sound of a cat. Everyone say "EWWWW."
Get up this morning and pull all the bedding off the bed. If I have to wash the duvet, I might as well do it all. While I'm at it, might as well wash everyone elses' bedding too. Smile and nod if you know what I'm talking about.
Little Ty wakes up an hour early since we put him down an hour early. This is both good news and bad news. The good news is I'll make it to the gym in time for 9:30 cycle class. The bad news is I have one more little person to attend to while I clean up and get the kids off to the bus.
Once the kids are off to school our day gets back to normal. Oh no, wait, did I think this morning would go smoothly? Got an email from our sub Sunday School teacher that she can't really sub on the dates that we need her. Note to self, when we get home from the Y, finalize the teacher schedule and make sub request forms for next Sunday.
Take a peek at the carpet and notice the stairs are totally filthy. I've got 25 minutes, I can vacuum. Yep, I did it, I vacuumed. (Why do we put so much pressure on ourselves??)
So that great idea set us back a few minutes, but we made it to the Y on time. Ty had a great time playing with his friends and mom got a great workout. Exactly what I needed after a rocky start to the day.
9.14.2012
School's in session!
Yay! The kids are back in school. Down to me and Ty and our new little routine. Hit the YMCA in the morning. Ty is adjusting well to the child care center at the Y. I go almost every day because the more I go, the happier he is when I drop him off. I've found several classes that I enjoy...Body Pump, Cycling, Tabata, Boot Camp. I also still hit the elliptical and treadmill on days I miss class. There are a few I haven't tried yet like the water classes and zumba. The schedule hasn't aligned correctly yet.
After the Y I shower, we have lunch and Ty gets down for a quick nap. After naps we pick up the big kids from the bus stop. Then the hard part starts. Seriously the hour of Body Pump followed by a 3 mile run isn't as exhausting as afternoon snack time in this household. Noisy, hungry, tired kids ready to tell me all about their day, demand a snack, and ask to go to a friend's house....all at the same time. Talk about multi-tasking! I'm exhausted 30 minutes after the kids get home.
The kids have adjusted well to the new school. So far we are doing great with the long walk to the bus stop....check back with me this winter when it's cold, windy and snowing. I've gotten to know the kids' neighbor friends' parents better. Behind us lives a family with a girl Larson's age, her older brother, parents, and grandmother. The grandmother recently told me that the mom was praying a family with kids her daughter's age would build a house here. We've had a few short conversations and hopefully we will develop a closer friendship as our kids have. It's cute to see the "fabulous 4" walking to and from the bus stop together.
Sunday School starts this week. I've had to volunteer to teach Larson's Sunday School class, as they didn't have any volunteers That would mean no Sunday School for that class until a teacher steps up. One other mom volunteered to cover 1/3 of the classes which is fantastic! I asked the coordinator to help us find one more teacher. This church is a little different, as Sunday School meets during church. The kids' lessons follow the message of the church service. I kind of like this because they don't really enjoy sitting through church anyway, it's more convenient for the parents, and the kids probably get more out of Sunday School. The only con is that the days I teach, I miss sitting with Jeff in church. The program does quite a few "Sunday School in Worship" Sundays. Which means the kids get an activity sheet to complete during church so the service is their Sunday School that day. This means more time as a family in church and less lessons for me to prepare. Although I wasn't quite ready to jump into teaching, I'm looking forward to meeting more people.
MOPS also starts this week! Woohoo! I found a group a few miles from me and I'm looking forward to checking this group out. For more information about MOPS, check out www.mops.org.
Off for a nap before the bus comes. I need all the rest I can get!
After the Y I shower, we have lunch and Ty gets down for a quick nap. After naps we pick up the big kids from the bus stop. Then the hard part starts. Seriously the hour of Body Pump followed by a 3 mile run isn't as exhausting as afternoon snack time in this household. Noisy, hungry, tired kids ready to tell me all about their day, demand a snack, and ask to go to a friend's house....all at the same time. Talk about multi-tasking! I'm exhausted 30 minutes after the kids get home.
The kids have adjusted well to the new school. So far we are doing great with the long walk to the bus stop....check back with me this winter when it's cold, windy and snowing. I've gotten to know the kids' neighbor friends' parents better. Behind us lives a family with a girl Larson's age, her older brother, parents, and grandmother. The grandmother recently told me that the mom was praying a family with kids her daughter's age would build a house here. We've had a few short conversations and hopefully we will develop a closer friendship as our kids have. It's cute to see the "fabulous 4" walking to and from the bus stop together.
Sunday School starts this week. I've had to volunteer to teach Larson's Sunday School class, as they didn't have any volunteers That would mean no Sunday School for that class until a teacher steps up. One other mom volunteered to cover 1/3 of the classes which is fantastic! I asked the coordinator to help us find one more teacher. This church is a little different, as Sunday School meets during church. The kids' lessons follow the message of the church service. I kind of like this because they don't really enjoy sitting through church anyway, it's more convenient for the parents, and the kids probably get more out of Sunday School. The only con is that the days I teach, I miss sitting with Jeff in church. The program does quite a few "Sunday School in Worship" Sundays. Which means the kids get an activity sheet to complete during church so the service is their Sunday School that day. This means more time as a family in church and less lessons for me to prepare. Although I wasn't quite ready to jump into teaching, I'm looking forward to meeting more people.
MOPS also starts this week! Woohoo! I found a group a few miles from me and I'm looking forward to checking this group out. For more information about MOPS, check out www.mops.org.
Off for a nap before the bus comes. I need all the rest I can get!
8.17.2012
Hit the Y one too many times
Joined the YMCA a while back to give my work out routine some variety. AND to get a moment away from the monkeys without messing up the "family time" schedule.
The kids LOVE the child care area, so that was a huge plus. Ty has a little separation anxiety, and over time it seems to be getting better. The staff is really good with helping him while I'm gone. He puts on a good show for me as I turn around and walk out the door. Usually the mom checking in behind us will find me and let me know he stopped crying as soon as I was up the stairs. I love how the moms at the facility support each other!
I'm excited to have found a huge variety of equipment and classes that challenge me. My favorite classes so far are group cycling and Bosu boot camp. On my own, I like (what I call) speed hill walking and a few of the programs on the elliptical. The elliptical that I like the most is Octane's run stride. I can do sprinting and intervals without killing my back and knee. I've been doing the 30:30, which is 30 second sprints, 30 second rest and every few minutes you get a 3 minute recovery. That style of exercise is HUGE for weight loss. Get your heart rate up and down throughout the work out.
Anyway, I'd been working out 4 days straight! This morning when I woke up and couldn't sit down on the toilet, I decided today is my rest day. Ouch! Tomorrow I'm going to try the 10K on the elliptical. Maybe lift some weights too.
I feel SO good these days! I'm super excited I'm back at a gym and taking time for myself. Even if I have to drag everyone out the door and leave one screaming at the child care area. It's totally worth it to have a happy momma again!
The kids LOVE the child care area, so that was a huge plus. Ty has a little separation anxiety, and over time it seems to be getting better. The staff is really good with helping him while I'm gone. He puts on a good show for me as I turn around and walk out the door. Usually the mom checking in behind us will find me and let me know he stopped crying as soon as I was up the stairs. I love how the moms at the facility support each other!
I'm excited to have found a huge variety of equipment and classes that challenge me. My favorite classes so far are group cycling and Bosu boot camp. On my own, I like (what I call) speed hill walking and a few of the programs on the elliptical. The elliptical that I like the most is Octane's run stride. I can do sprinting and intervals without killing my back and knee. I've been doing the 30:30, which is 30 second sprints, 30 second rest and every few minutes you get a 3 minute recovery. That style of exercise is HUGE for weight loss. Get your heart rate up and down throughout the work out.
Anyway, I'd been working out 4 days straight! This morning when I woke up and couldn't sit down on the toilet, I decided today is my rest day. Ouch! Tomorrow I'm going to try the 10K on the elliptical. Maybe lift some weights too.
I feel SO good these days! I'm super excited I'm back at a gym and taking time for myself. Even if I have to drag everyone out the door and leave one screaming at the child care area. It's totally worth it to have a happy momma again!
8.14.2012
TV Off Night = Game Night
Last night we tried "TV Off" night. It was more successful that I thought it would be!
About 6:00, the TV went off and the games came out. We made popcorn and the family played games for about 2 hours. It was a little trying because Ty can't actually play the games and his attention span is way too short. I kept him busy with other things while Jeff managed the big kids.
It was all worth it when Ali asked if we could have game night every week. Definitely something we want to keep up. Making Memories!
About 6:00, the TV went off and the games came out. We made popcorn and the family played games for about 2 hours. It was a little trying because Ty can't actually play the games and his attention span is way too short. I kept him busy with other things while Jeff managed the big kids.
It was all worth it when Ali asked if we could have game night every week. Definitely something we want to keep up. Making Memories!
8.10.2012
Tale of a mouse
I've been MIA for a while. I've spent the last 7 days on vacation with my family. My parents, kids, hubby, my sister, my brother, and my nieces. It was a fun time. Exhausting, but fun!
So, I'm pretty tired, but I wanted to at least share the story of our little cabin mouse.
We arrived on a Friday. Sunday morning, my sister and wake up to a hot dog bun looking a little crumbled by the kitchen sink. Huh! Do some more research and find mouse poopies on the counter. We intend to get a mouse trap, but forget. Monday morning we wake up to more mouse mischief...and yet again we forget to buy some traps. Tuesday brings more mouse messes and enough is enough! We grab some wooden old fashion mouse traps. It takes us a while to figure out how to set the traps; a couple of failed attempts and we're set to catch that trouble maker!
Wednesday morning, the peanut butter is licked out of the traps...which were still set. We also find our new friend has a sweet tooth and ate the chocolate out of some M&Ms and munched on a sucker. Mouse-1, sisters-0. Carefully set off the traps so we can re-bate. This time we used taffy. Sticky enough to make the mouse work for it, set off the trap, and get stuck. We've got him this time for sure!
Middle of the night, I'm settling Ty back down to sleep and SNAP, SCRATCH, SCRATCH! Yay!! We got him! His sweet tooth was his demise.
Mouse trapping hint #1. Use bate that is sticky and satisfies the mouses cravings.
So, I'm pretty tired, but I wanted to at least share the story of our little cabin mouse.
We arrived on a Friday. Sunday morning, my sister and wake up to a hot dog bun looking a little crumbled by the kitchen sink. Huh! Do some more research and find mouse poopies on the counter. We intend to get a mouse trap, but forget. Monday morning we wake up to more mouse mischief...and yet again we forget to buy some traps. Tuesday brings more mouse messes and enough is enough! We grab some wooden old fashion mouse traps. It takes us a while to figure out how to set the traps; a couple of failed attempts and we're set to catch that trouble maker!
Wednesday morning, the peanut butter is licked out of the traps...which were still set. We also find our new friend has a sweet tooth and ate the chocolate out of some M&Ms and munched on a sucker. Mouse-1, sisters-0. Carefully set off the traps so we can re-bate. This time we used taffy. Sticky enough to make the mouse work for it, set off the trap, and get stuck. We've got him this time for sure!
Middle of the night, I'm settling Ty back down to sleep and SNAP, SCRATCH, SCRATCH! Yay!! We got him! His sweet tooth was his demise.
Mouse trapping hint #1. Use bate that is sticky and satisfies the mouses cravings.
7.29.2012
Mommy and Daddy get a day off!
It's been well over a week since I've blogged. I want to skip back to last week when Jeff and I had a child free day. We got so much done!
We started the morning by sleeping in! Not sure how that happened. I'm usually up by 7 at the latest. We finally opened our peepers at 9! We were going to run, but that didn't happen.
We started the day by shopping at Ikea for ideas on redecorating our bedroom. We want to paint the room grey with a blue/green accent wall. We decided on white furniture and found a white headboard we can agree on. I think we're going to paint our dressers, but buy a new headboard and maybe new night stands. We found the perfect duvet cover. Now for the duvet. We visited Lowes and picked up some paint swatches. I'm very eager to get started on our new project! Probably later this fall.
Of course the picture doesn't give the colors justice, but you get the idea.
Ali reminded me we have to paint her bed white too. Yep, we will do the kids' room and their bathroom this fall/winter too.
We had a nice quiet meal at bd Mongolian BBQ. I wanted to try it, but didn't want to go with the kids the first time. We needed to check it out to make sure the kids would like it there. They have a good kids' menu, so I think we can chance it.
After a nice nap we hit the road on our bikes for a 7 mile workout. It is so nice to exercise with a mate, isn't it? I find it boring to run, walk or bike by myself, but with three monkies, it can't be helped.
Surprise! We had some extra time before dinner. Off to Valleyfair! While slightly strange to go without the kids, it was fun to go without them. We hit the "big kid" rides that we can't do when they're with. Steel Venom, Power Tower, Wild Thing, etc. We wanted to hit Extreme Swing, but the line was long and we wanted to head back.
I can't say it enough, we had a FANTASTIC day. We definitely need to do that more often!
We started the morning by sleeping in! Not sure how that happened. I'm usually up by 7 at the latest. We finally opened our peepers at 9! We were going to run, but that didn't happen.
We started the day by shopping at Ikea for ideas on redecorating our bedroom. We want to paint the room grey with a blue/green accent wall. We decided on white furniture and found a white headboard we can agree on. I think we're going to paint our dressers, but buy a new headboard and maybe new night stands. We found the perfect duvet cover. Now for the duvet. We visited Lowes and picked up some paint swatches. I'm very eager to get started on our new project! Probably later this fall.
Of course the picture doesn't give the colors justice, but you get the idea.
Ali reminded me we have to paint her bed white too. Yep, we will do the kids' room and their bathroom this fall/winter too.
We had a nice quiet meal at bd Mongolian BBQ. I wanted to try it, but didn't want to go with the kids the first time. We needed to check it out to make sure the kids would like it there. They have a good kids' menu, so I think we can chance it.
After a nice nap we hit the road on our bikes for a 7 mile workout. It is so nice to exercise with a mate, isn't it? I find it boring to run, walk or bike by myself, but with three monkies, it can't be helped.
Surprise! We had some extra time before dinner. Off to Valleyfair! While slightly strange to go without the kids, it was fun to go without them. We hit the "big kid" rides that we can't do when they're with. Steel Venom, Power Tower, Wild Thing, etc. We wanted to hit Extreme Swing, but the line was long and we wanted to head back.
I can't say it enough, we had a FANTASTIC day. We definitely need to do that more often!
7.19.2012
Button Art
As promised, I'm posting a picture of the craft the kids did yesterday.
I bought picture frames and a bag of buttons (Walmart). The kids picked out their frames and buttons. Ali grabbed flower shaped buttons. We glued the buttons with a hot glue gun. It was a quick and easy project. Not messy. Turned out really cute! They fit the kids' personalities too!
I bought picture frames and a bag of buttons (Walmart). The kids picked out their frames and buttons. Ali grabbed flower shaped buttons. We glued the buttons with a hot glue gun. It was a quick and easy project. Not messy. Turned out really cute! They fit the kids' personalities too!
7.18.2012
It's been quiet
It's been pretty quiet around here. Haven't had much going on this week. I've not been running as much because of my knee and back. I've found a chiropractor so I'm feeling more like getting back into it. I ran yesterday, which was a mistake. Only because of the heat. Tonight I'm going to bike.
I am feeling so much better now that I'm back on regular chiro care. My screwed up back affects more than I think. When I let it go, I'm affected all over my body. Probably TMI, but when I don't have regular care I have constant PMS bloating, which isn't pleasant at all. Makes me CRABBY! It's amazing how one area of your body affects so many others.
Tomorrow is a cleaning day. We're having a House Warming party (sponsored by my realtor) on Friday night. I have to make sure everything is clean, vacuumed, and I have to touch up on some walls. I didn't realize how non-forgiving flat paint is. Seriously water marks don't go away. Eventually we're going to have to completely repaint with a more durable paint because this is getting ridiculous. One little splash on the wall and it's there forever. If you try to clean it, you have a bigger spot. Granted flat paint is cheap, had I known I would have spent more for better paint.
Today is a trip to Walmart for some craft supplies for a project for the kids (will post pics later), groceries, and a paint roller.
Stay cool everyone!
I am feeling so much better now that I'm back on regular chiro care. My screwed up back affects more than I think. When I let it go, I'm affected all over my body. Probably TMI, but when I don't have regular care I have constant PMS bloating, which isn't pleasant at all. Makes me CRABBY! It's amazing how one area of your body affects so many others.
Tomorrow is a cleaning day. We're having a House Warming party (sponsored by my realtor) on Friday night. I have to make sure everything is clean, vacuumed, and I have to touch up on some walls. I didn't realize how non-forgiving flat paint is. Seriously water marks don't go away. Eventually we're going to have to completely repaint with a more durable paint because this is getting ridiculous. One little splash on the wall and it's there forever. If you try to clean it, you have a bigger spot. Granted flat paint is cheap, had I known I would have spent more for better paint.
Today is a trip to Walmart for some craft supplies for a project for the kids (will post pics later), groceries, and a paint roller.
Stay cool everyone!
7.14.2012
Bike helmet, check! Costco run, check!
Got a bike helmet and off I went! It was so nice to switch it up and take a bike ride instead of running. I went about 5 miles....I think. I'll need to check it out. I loved working different muscles. It felt SO GOOD!
We ran to Costco this morning and picked up a new toaster (a 4-slicer!), new Rubbermaid set, and various food items. You know, it feels really good to get new stuff and throw out the old. Obviously with a new house it seems like you need new stuff. I had blogged earlier that we got new kitchen and bath towels because it didn't seem right to come into a new house with old towels. Besides, our towels were getting gross anyway. Our intention was to use what we had because it's more cost effective. Obviously. But something feels weird about walking into a new house with old towels. We spent a lot to build the house and landscape it. The last thing we needed to do was re-furnish it. The toaster today replaced the 2-slicer so that feels more like a necessity as the family is getting older. The Rubbermaid replaces our disposable containers. Not so much a necessity, but it sure is nice. I almost feels like we're newlyweds again! Seriously, try it sometime. Buy a box of some new kitchen stuff, wash it up and put it away. See what happens.
When we go to wedding and baby showers, we always say, "it would be nice if I could have another shower to get new stuff. My stuff is so old after (pick a number) years." Well, yes. I would encourage, if you can to just get new things....if you really feel you need to be refreshed. This isn't a very frugal idea and in these times, who can afford it, right? I'm not saying go out there and re-furnish your house in one evening. Look for sales and replace things as you can. We have been donating and recycling lots of the old stuff and are actually down sizing in the process. We had over 20 bath towels that we never used. We went to Target (Walmart would work too) and grabbed 6 new towels in the store brand line. Each towel was about $5 if I remember correctly. That's right, we live off of 6 towels (plus the 3 baby towels for Ty). Think of how much room we save. We hang and re-use 5 towels for a few days and then I wash. I'm storing only 4 towels. We have a few hand towels for guests and one wash cloth for Ty. We use mesh sponges so there's not point in having a bazillion hand towels. (Actually, the hand towels went to the kitchen rags and I use them to wipe up Ty after meals. They are the perfect size and saves money on paper towels.) Sorry, I ramble, but there are ways to de-clutter and get new if you work at it.
We ran to Costco this morning and picked up a new toaster (a 4-slicer!), new Rubbermaid set, and various food items. You know, it feels really good to get new stuff and throw out the old. Obviously with a new house it seems like you need new stuff. I had blogged earlier that we got new kitchen and bath towels because it didn't seem right to come into a new house with old towels. Besides, our towels were getting gross anyway. Our intention was to use what we had because it's more cost effective. Obviously. But something feels weird about walking into a new house with old towels. We spent a lot to build the house and landscape it. The last thing we needed to do was re-furnish it. The toaster today replaced the 2-slicer so that feels more like a necessity as the family is getting older. The Rubbermaid replaces our disposable containers. Not so much a necessity, but it sure is nice. I almost feels like we're newlyweds again! Seriously, try it sometime. Buy a box of some new kitchen stuff, wash it up and put it away. See what happens.
When we go to wedding and baby showers, we always say, "it would be nice if I could have another shower to get new stuff. My stuff is so old after (pick a number) years." Well, yes. I would encourage, if you can to just get new things....if you really feel you need to be refreshed. This isn't a very frugal idea and in these times, who can afford it, right? I'm not saying go out there and re-furnish your house in one evening. Look for sales and replace things as you can. We have been donating and recycling lots of the old stuff and are actually down sizing in the process. We had over 20 bath towels that we never used. We went to Target (Walmart would work too) and grabbed 6 new towels in the store brand line. Each towel was about $5 if I remember correctly. That's right, we live off of 6 towels (plus the 3 baby towels for Ty). Think of how much room we save. We hang and re-use 5 towels for a few days and then I wash. I'm storing only 4 towels. We have a few hand towels for guests and one wash cloth for Ty. We use mesh sponges so there's not point in having a bazillion hand towels. (Actually, the hand towels went to the kitchen rags and I use them to wipe up Ty after meals. They are the perfect size and saves money on paper towels.) Sorry, I ramble, but there are ways to de-clutter and get new if you work at it.
7.12.2012
Mommy's evening off!
I got a few hours "off"! Thanks to my friend for asking me to a movie. So rejuvenating in such a little amount of time.
Jeff does a fantastic job with the kids. I had to giggle a little when I get home and the van door is open and the diaper bag is still inside. It is a challenge to get the kids in and out of the van with all the paraphernalia that comes along. I was a little concerned about opening the door to the house, but they were doing great. Everyone was having a bedtime snack, smiling, and talking. I should have stayed away for a few hours longer!
I took Jeff's car tonight and I have to admit....I really miss driving a "normal car." They're so fast! You can zoom in and out of traffic so easily. I love our Grand Caravan because it's perfect for our family; and really, I shouldn't be zooming in and out of traffic anyway, right?
I don't think your life ever goes back to "normal" after you have kids, but sometimes I like to image what it will be like to have "me" back. The "me" that's not 24/7 on-call mom. I know the mom part never goes away, but I also know that eventually you get to hang out with your friends and eat meals without incident again. Maybe I need to petition harder for year-round school. HMMMMMM.
Jeff does a fantastic job with the kids. I had to giggle a little when I get home and the van door is open and the diaper bag is still inside. It is a challenge to get the kids in and out of the van with all the paraphernalia that comes along. I was a little concerned about opening the door to the house, but they were doing great. Everyone was having a bedtime snack, smiling, and talking. I should have stayed away for a few hours longer!
I took Jeff's car tonight and I have to admit....I really miss driving a "normal car." They're so fast! You can zoom in and out of traffic so easily. I love our Grand Caravan because it's perfect for our family; and really, I shouldn't be zooming in and out of traffic anyway, right?
I don't think your life ever goes back to "normal" after you have kids, but sometimes I like to image what it will be like to have "me" back. The "me" that's not 24/7 on-call mom. I know the mom part never goes away, but I also know that eventually you get to hang out with your friends and eat meals without incident again. Maybe I need to petition harder for year-round school. HMMMMMM.
7.11.2012
Another birthday for this momma
A very low key birthday today.
The kids (Lars and Ali) met their new doctor this morning. He seems very nice and the clinic is convenient to our house and the kids' school. They ended up getting 2 shots that weren't necessary but recommended, so they were a little disappointed. They received a certificate of braveness and they got a little prize at the attached pharmacy. Super cute idea!
Ran to Caribou for my FREE Caribou drink. Yay me! I hardly ever splurge in a calorie filled blended coffee drink, but what the heck. It's free and it's my birthday.
Ali was a little bored this afternoon because all their friends were busy. I remember seeing an ad for abcmouse.com on TV a few times, so I thought I'd check it out. Couldn't hurt. It's a learning program for kids ages 2-Kindergarten. It takes them through lessons that are educational and fun. There are reading, math, science, puzzle, music and art sections. It looks like it will be pretty easy for Ali to navigate. Hopefully this is something she can to do keep entertained during down times and keep her brain going.
When Jeff got home we had a simple dinner of grilled pork, caesar salad, green beans, and cup cakes! Afterwards, we checked out a new playground and the kids ran off some energy.
Off for a nice run tomorrow. I'm going to need it!
The kids (Lars and Ali) met their new doctor this morning. He seems very nice and the clinic is convenient to our house and the kids' school. They ended up getting 2 shots that weren't necessary but recommended, so they were a little disappointed. They received a certificate of braveness and they got a little prize at the attached pharmacy. Super cute idea!
Ran to Caribou for my FREE Caribou drink. Yay me! I hardly ever splurge in a calorie filled blended coffee drink, but what the heck. It's free and it's my birthday.
Ali was a little bored this afternoon because all their friends were busy. I remember seeing an ad for abcmouse.com on TV a few times, so I thought I'd check it out. Couldn't hurt. It's a learning program for kids ages 2-Kindergarten. It takes them through lessons that are educational and fun. There are reading, math, science, puzzle, music and art sections. It looks like it will be pretty easy for Ali to navigate. Hopefully this is something she can to do keep entertained during down times and keep her brain going.
When Jeff got home we had a simple dinner of grilled pork, caesar salad, green beans, and cup cakes! Afterwards, we checked out a new playground and the kids ran off some energy.
Off for a nice run tomorrow. I'm going to need it!
7.10.2012
Another run, another day, and a visit to the zoo
Weight is a little up and I'm not sure why. My goal this week is to track my intake a little better.
Went for a run this morning but ended up walked the last part because my knee hurts. I injured it a while back and I have to back off when it acts up. It was still a good run because my goal was to go faster, which I did for 1 1/2 miles. I'm eager to get a bike helmet so I can add biking to my list of exercises. I should probably add kettlebells to the list. I could fit that into the schedule in the evenings. Oh ya, the kettlebells are at the old house still. UGH. Well, add that to the list for next week.
Last night we went to Como Zoo. We only had an hour before the park closed, but it was a great time to go! No crowds and it was coolish outside. We zoomed through the exhibits and the animals were up close and personal (except the bears...I think they were already in their dens for the night). I had a monkey run at me, which was spooky. It came out of no where on a branch and pounced the glass. I screamed of course. Totally wasn't expecting that. He was a cute little fellow. The lion was pacing in front of the glass so the kids got to be very close up. Poor thing wanted to be outside. Not sure why he wasn't, I'm thinking the lions were brought in for the night. That's the closest we'll ever be to a lion! The gorillas were looking pretty sad in their inside enclosures, but when we went outside we found out why. They're doing a huge renovation to the outdoor gorilla exhibit. It will be a much better space for them.
Today is a "stay home day." We're going to try to do stuff around the house today. Lars and Ali like playing with their friends and they hate having their play time interrupted. I don't blame them. Nope, today we stick around the house. Maybe I'll get some house work done too. Make a couple of phone calls. Yep, that sounds good today.
Went for a run this morning but ended up walked the last part because my knee hurts. I injured it a while back and I have to back off when it acts up. It was still a good run because my goal was to go faster, which I did for 1 1/2 miles. I'm eager to get a bike helmet so I can add biking to my list of exercises. I should probably add kettlebells to the list. I could fit that into the schedule in the evenings. Oh ya, the kettlebells are at the old house still. UGH. Well, add that to the list for next week.
Last night we went to Como Zoo. We only had an hour before the park closed, but it was a great time to go! No crowds and it was coolish outside. We zoomed through the exhibits and the animals were up close and personal (except the bears...I think they were already in their dens for the night). I had a monkey run at me, which was spooky. It came out of no where on a branch and pounced the glass. I screamed of course. Totally wasn't expecting that. He was a cute little fellow. The lion was pacing in front of the glass so the kids got to be very close up. Poor thing wanted to be outside. Not sure why he wasn't, I'm thinking the lions were brought in for the night. That's the closest we'll ever be to a lion! The gorillas were looking pretty sad in their inside enclosures, but when we went outside we found out why. They're doing a huge renovation to the outdoor gorilla exhibit. It will be a much better space for them.
Today is a "stay home day." We're going to try to do stuff around the house today. Lars and Ali like playing with their friends and they hate having their play time interrupted. I don't blame them. Nope, today we stick around the house. Maybe I'll get some house work done too. Make a couple of phone calls. Yep, that sounds good today.
7.07.2012
woohoo! 4 miles!
It was a much cooler morning. I was able to make it the 4 miles today! Of course I went the Lite Side route so I only had 2 hills to battle.
At what point does the body take over? It seems like I got about 2 miles and suddenly my legs were going and I was along for the ride. It's a great feeling!
I'm so glad I made up my mind to go that extra mile. Half the battle is committing in your head. If I would have gone out thinking "I'd really like to run 4 miles, but we'll see what happens," I'd never made it. Commit and do it! The next run will be easier and maybe soon I'll go even farther.
At what point does the body take over? It seems like I got about 2 miles and suddenly my legs were going and I was along for the ride. It's a great feeling!
I'm so glad I made up my mind to go that extra mile. Half the battle is committing in your head. If I would have gone out thinking "I'd really like to run 4 miles, but we'll see what happens," I'd never made it. Commit and do it! The next run will be easier and maybe soon I'll go even farther.
7.06.2012
HOT HOT HOT
Oh my goodness. It's really hot this week! It's been in the high 90s (F) to 101 (F). Icky, drippy, hot, bluck.
I am very glad we have season passes to Valleyfair. Our amusement park with a small water park. The last two evenings we took the kids there. The water park was absolutely perfect. They added a wave pool which the kids LOVE. Even Ty is giddy when he sees it. He stands as far out as we let him and he laughs as the waves wash over him. Jeff and I take a pounding as we try to sit next to him. Notice "try" to sit next to him. It's hard to stay stable while holding him up even in the smaller waves. The kids had fun and we cooled off. It's a win-win.
You know how you move into a new area and you have to re-learn everything? This morning, I brought the kids to the library and it's only open in the afternoons on Friday. OK, so we plan to go back after Ty's nap. I thought the sign said 1-8pm. It was 1-5pm. So try 2 today was a failure as well. UGH! I don't really know where to get haircuts, chiropractor, church, etc. We're on "try it and see" mode. It's a very teachable moment for the kids. What to do when you don't know what you're doing. Fake it until make it. Shake it off when you fail and try again. At least we can say, "we're new here, now we know." Unfortunately that happened twice today...there was an incident at a gas pump too today. Good times. I'm fortunate to have a husband who can take the phone calls and talk me down from the frustration.
Hoping to get a run in tomorrow morning. As I sit here typing, I'm watching the lightening light up the sky. Hoping it cools off for tomorrow. I'm aiming for a 4 mile run tomorrow. Wish me luck!
I am very glad we have season passes to Valleyfair. Our amusement park with a small water park. The last two evenings we took the kids there. The water park was absolutely perfect. They added a wave pool which the kids LOVE. Even Ty is giddy when he sees it. He stands as far out as we let him and he laughs as the waves wash over him. Jeff and I take a pounding as we try to sit next to him. Notice "try" to sit next to him. It's hard to stay stable while holding him up even in the smaller waves. The kids had fun and we cooled off. It's a win-win.
You know how you move into a new area and you have to re-learn everything? This morning, I brought the kids to the library and it's only open in the afternoons on Friday. OK, so we plan to go back after Ty's nap. I thought the sign said 1-8pm. It was 1-5pm. So try 2 today was a failure as well. UGH! I don't really know where to get haircuts, chiropractor, church, etc. We're on "try it and see" mode. It's a very teachable moment for the kids. What to do when you don't know what you're doing. Fake it until make it. Shake it off when you fail and try again. At least we can say, "we're new here, now we know." Unfortunately that happened twice today...there was an incident at a gas pump too today. Good times. I'm fortunate to have a husband who can take the phone calls and talk me down from the frustration.
Hoping to get a run in tomorrow morning. As I sit here typing, I'm watching the lightening light up the sky. Hoping it cools off for tomorrow. I'm aiming for a 4 mile run tomorrow. Wish me luck!
7.05.2012
Didn't quite make it. :(
I know it's been a while, but come on! Maybe it was the humidity. I just couldn't make it up that darn hill today. I fell about 1/2 a block short. Not too shabby for the heat and humidity this morning.
Well, no swimming lessons or plans for today so we get to enjoy a relaxed day at home.
Well, no swimming lessons or plans for today so we get to enjoy a relaxed day at home.
It's too cute, gotta share
Last night we were watching the fire works from our house. The kids would run from one end to the other to catch the different displays.
Ty had no clue what was going on. He was just thrilled to be awake. However, he apparently got hungry and decided to help himself to a snack. Imagine this.....watching a little tike toddle into the kitchen, hear the pantry open, hear the pantry close, and Ty comes walking back with a box of Nutrigrain bars. Huge smile on his face. He's pretty independent.
Ty had no clue what was going on. He was just thrilled to be awake. However, he apparently got hungry and decided to help himself to a snack. Imagine this.....watching a little tike toddle into the kitchen, hear the pantry open, hear the pantry close, and Ty comes walking back with a box of Nutrigrain bars. Huge smile on his face. He's pretty independent.
7.04.2012
We have a paci hoarder
We usually allow our little guy to have one paci for sleep times only. He found the basket where we keep all the extras. He was in paci heaven! One in the mouth, one hanging from his shirt, and one in each hand. We're finding pacis ALL over the house. I'm hoping he'll forget about them and leave the basket alone, but it looks like we'll be finding a new hiding place soon.
Still really hot weather around here. Today was over 100 F. Needless to say, I haven't been out for a run in a while. I hope to get out tomorrow morning.
Today we met my mom at The Landing (fka Murphy's Landing). I haven't been there in years! The kids really liked it. It's a park that has mid to late 1800 houses, farms, stores, and a school house. You walk around and go through the different buildings and learn about how the people lived during the time the house was built. The kids had not been introduced to anything like that before so it was an interesting day for them. Unfortunately the heat made it unbearable to stay for long. We will most likely take them back another time when it's cooler and we can spend more time.
Afterwards we had yet another horrible experience at a certain Perkins. Honestly I'm not sure why we go to that particular location. We get crappy service every time.
After Ty's nap we explored a new park and drove around Prior Lake exploring the little down town and the neighborhoods. Super jealous of the people who own lake homes today. What a gorgeous day to live on the lake! Not to mention how beautiful some of those houses are!
Happy 4th everyone!
Still really hot weather around here. Today was over 100 F. Needless to say, I haven't been out for a run in a while. I hope to get out tomorrow morning.
Today we met my mom at The Landing (fka Murphy's Landing). I haven't been there in years! The kids really liked it. It's a park that has mid to late 1800 houses, farms, stores, and a school house. You walk around and go through the different buildings and learn about how the people lived during the time the house was built. The kids had not been introduced to anything like that before so it was an interesting day for them. Unfortunately the heat made it unbearable to stay for long. We will most likely take them back another time when it's cooler and we can spend more time.
Afterwards we had yet another horrible experience at a certain Perkins. Honestly I'm not sure why we go to that particular location. We get crappy service every time.
After Ty's nap we explored a new park and drove around Prior Lake exploring the little down town and the neighborhoods. Super jealous of the people who own lake homes today. What a gorgeous day to live on the lake! Not to mention how beautiful some of those houses are!
Happy 4th everyone!
7.01.2012
Parties, Cake, and Cleaning
2 words....busy weekend.
My oldest is 8! He is turning out to be such a sweet boy. After two years of long awaited anticipation, we had his party at Chuck E. Cheese's on Saturday! 3 kids and 10 adults had lunch at Chuck E's. It was pretty fun. Even Uncle Scott came, as it was his birthday too! It's nice when we can celebrate the two birthdays at the same time. My parents took Lars and Alicia home with them for an over-nighter. Apparently they went to Applebees for dinner last night and the staff sang for Larson and he got free icecream. I talked to him on the phone last night and he said this was his "BEST BIRTHDAY EVER!!" So cute. Not sure if we can out due ourselves next year. It was a pretty good day.
Speaking of pretty good, Costco makes awesome cakes! MMMMM Chocolate cake with chocolate frosting and chocolate mouse filling. Two pounds of chocolate mouse filling! OMG, heaven. So far we're 2 for 2 in the cake department. Ty's cake two weeks ago was super yummy too. I'm good for cake for a while. Well, at least another 2 weeks ... for my birthday.
Now the cleaning part. We went to the old house to clean up this afternoon. It was a hot day. 90F with no air conditioning or fans. The sweat drips immediately. Got the house clean for the most part. Still need to do the oven and scrub the kitchen floor, but that won't take long. Maybe in a few weeks we'll go back and finish up. Lars and Ali were able to play for a while with their Hutchinson friends. They miss their friends and it was nice that they had some time to reconnect.
Weigh-in: I didn't loose any weight, but I didn't gain any either. I ran and I ate. It all equaled out. Looking forward to be better week next week.
My oldest is 8! He is turning out to be such a sweet boy. After two years of long awaited anticipation, we had his party at Chuck E. Cheese's on Saturday! 3 kids and 10 adults had lunch at Chuck E's. It was pretty fun. Even Uncle Scott came, as it was his birthday too! It's nice when we can celebrate the two birthdays at the same time. My parents took Lars and Alicia home with them for an over-nighter. Apparently they went to Applebees for dinner last night and the staff sang for Larson and he got free icecream. I talked to him on the phone last night and he said this was his "BEST BIRTHDAY EVER!!" So cute. Not sure if we can out due ourselves next year. It was a pretty good day.
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| Lars and Ali with Chuck E. |
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| Little Brother Ty gives Chuck a kiss. |
Now the cleaning part. We went to the old house to clean up this afternoon. It was a hot day. 90F with no air conditioning or fans. The sweat drips immediately. Got the house clean for the most part. Still need to do the oven and scrub the kitchen floor, but that won't take long. Maybe in a few weeks we'll go back and finish up. Lars and Ali were able to play for a while with their Hutchinson friends. They miss their friends and it was nice that they had some time to reconnect.
Weigh-in: I didn't loose any weight, but I didn't gain any either. I ran and I ate. It all equaled out. Looking forward to be better week next week.
6.28.2012
Not a fluke. I did it again!
So I chickened out on the morning run.
I got out this evening and found yet another route. Let's call it Dark Side II since it's an off-shoot of Dark Side and it's longer. I managed to conquer that route, despite my fantabulous decision to have second helpings at dinner.
Let's talk about what you shouldn't eat before going off on a run. An alien stole my brain for a moment and I made the yummiest mexican hot dish. It's one of those dishes that you only eat if you're trying to gain weight. Take seconds if you need to gain weight faster. Corn bread and sour cream are the biggest offenders in the dish. But seriously, you have to live sometimes. Only you should be smart about it and take a small portion. My tummy is still stuffed and I ate 3 hours ago....and took a run.
I had an excellent run, which makes me wonder....am I not eating enough before my runs? Obviously a double dose of a Mexican dish is not the answer, but maybe I need to re-evaluate how I'm fueling up.
HMMM Lots to think about.
Now to take the last for minutes of my day to relax and prep for bed.
Good night everyone!
I got out this evening and found yet another route. Let's call it Dark Side II since it's an off-shoot of Dark Side and it's longer. I managed to conquer that route, despite my fantabulous decision to have second helpings at dinner.
Let's talk about what you shouldn't eat before going off on a run. An alien stole my brain for a moment and I made the yummiest mexican hot dish. It's one of those dishes that you only eat if you're trying to gain weight. Take seconds if you need to gain weight faster. Corn bread and sour cream are the biggest offenders in the dish. But seriously, you have to live sometimes. Only you should be smart about it and take a small portion. My tummy is still stuffed and I ate 3 hours ago....and took a run.
I had an excellent run, which makes me wonder....am I not eating enough before my runs? Obviously a double dose of a Mexican dish is not the answer, but maybe I need to re-evaluate how I'm fueling up.
HMMM Lots to think about.
Now to take the last for minutes of my day to relax and prep for bed.
Good night everyone!
6.27.2012
What a great day
It was a scorcher today in Minnesota! Hot and humid is not a good combination. I believe it was in the 90s (F) with 71% humidity. We're lucky to have central air!
This morning we biked to a park nearby. Even at 10:00 am it was sticky hot. Super mom saved the day and got the Burley changed from a jogger to a pull-behind for the bike. Dripping sweat I braced cab with my feet and pulled with ultra super strength on the tire and POP it came off. Whew! The kids were a bit nervous that mom wouldn't be able to do it and then the ride would be cancelled. Mom couldn't let that happen. Putting the trailer piece on was much easier. So got that ready, hop on the bike and the chain falls off. Twice. ARGH. Needless to say, I got it fixed. We had a good time riding bikes together. I think that's the first time we all hopped on a bike and rode off.
One of the kids' new friends spent the first part of the afternoon playing. It is so much fun to have friends close to keep us busy.
Like a normal kid, Larson informs me when we get to the pool that he doesn't have his shoes. He was embarrassed and said he was sorry so I really couldn't get angry. We've all been there. But OMG. Seriously. We have an agenda after lessons! Took this time as an opportunity for some Love & Logic. "Well honey, the pavement is really hot. You're going to have to run to the door. Watch for cars!" He tries to pin it on me..."mom, you forgot to remind me." Nope, not working. My come-back...."sorry buddy, your shoes are your responsibility. You know you need to put shoes on when we go somewhere. Remember next time." So yes, I got about 30 minutes behind running errands because we had to go back home and get the shoes, but he learned a lesson and I kept my head about me. Yay mom!
So after Larson's lessons, I pick up a take-n-bake pizza at a place in Savage called Woodland Take-N-Bake Pizza Company. Dare I say it's better than Papa Murphy's? So many toppings! Yummy crust! Anyway, we just sit down and the door bell rings. The neighbor kids are inviting the kids to a pool party. Yep, eat and hurry off, kids. Ali's swim lessons are in 45 minutes. Ali and Jeff soon take off and Larson stays out. All the kids are pool hopping and running through various sprinklers. They were out until 8:30 pm! Good times.
On to tomorrow. Dare I take a run in the morning? I've been a slacker the last few days and it should be nice and mugging tomorrow morning. Well, my punishment for procrastinating. Wish me luck!
This morning we biked to a park nearby. Even at 10:00 am it was sticky hot. Super mom saved the day and got the Burley changed from a jogger to a pull-behind for the bike. Dripping sweat I braced cab with my feet and pulled with ultra super strength on the tire and POP it came off. Whew! The kids were a bit nervous that mom wouldn't be able to do it and then the ride would be cancelled. Mom couldn't let that happen. Putting the trailer piece on was much easier. So got that ready, hop on the bike and the chain falls off. Twice. ARGH. Needless to say, I got it fixed. We had a good time riding bikes together. I think that's the first time we all hopped on a bike and rode off.
One of the kids' new friends spent the first part of the afternoon playing. It is so much fun to have friends close to keep us busy.
Like a normal kid, Larson informs me when we get to the pool that he doesn't have his shoes. He was embarrassed and said he was sorry so I really couldn't get angry. We've all been there. But OMG. Seriously. We have an agenda after lessons! Took this time as an opportunity for some Love & Logic. "Well honey, the pavement is really hot. You're going to have to run to the door. Watch for cars!" He tries to pin it on me..."mom, you forgot to remind me." Nope, not working. My come-back...."sorry buddy, your shoes are your responsibility. You know you need to put shoes on when we go somewhere. Remember next time." So yes, I got about 30 minutes behind running errands because we had to go back home and get the shoes, but he learned a lesson and I kept my head about me. Yay mom!
So after Larson's lessons, I pick up a take-n-bake pizza at a place in Savage called Woodland Take-N-Bake Pizza Company. Dare I say it's better than Papa Murphy's? So many toppings! Yummy crust! Anyway, we just sit down and the door bell rings. The neighbor kids are inviting the kids to a pool party. Yep, eat and hurry off, kids. Ali's swim lessons are in 45 minutes. Ali and Jeff soon take off and Larson stays out. All the kids are pool hopping and running through various sprinklers. They were out until 8:30 pm! Good times.
On to tomorrow. Dare I take a run in the morning? I've been a slacker the last few days and it should be nice and mugging tomorrow morning. Well, my punishment for procrastinating. Wish me luck!
6.26.2012
There's only one of me!!!!!!
I'm pulled in so many directions today. Kind of feeling like Elastagirl. Or at least wishing I was. ARGH! Everyone needs help, and usually at the same time. In fact, it's amazing I'm blogging right now.
One mommy and three kiddos is overwhelming. I can't count how many times I've said "I'm one person taking care of three of you....you need to wait." Wondering if Target sells those ticket dispensers. "Take a number!" It's summer break and there's no break for this mom. Fighting for attention is never ending in this household and I need a break. Sorry, not going to happen, but one can dream....can't she?
Many of you know what I'm talking about. Coffee?? Oh ya, I made some. Didn't quite get around to drinking it. Ever start the washing machine without putting clothes in it. Come on, admit it. Projects 1/2 done sitting around because you start something, get distracted, start something else, get distracted, etc. Eventually they must go to sleep, right? Oh ya, and I got that coffee last night at 10:00 when I finally had time to sit down and enjoy it. Thankfully I drink decaf.
One mommy and three kiddos is overwhelming. I can't count how many times I've said "I'm one person taking care of three of you....you need to wait." Wondering if Target sells those ticket dispensers. "Take a number!" It's summer break and there's no break for this mom. Fighting for attention is never ending in this household and I need a break. Sorry, not going to happen, but one can dream....can't she?
Many of you know what I'm talking about. Coffee?? Oh ya, I made some. Didn't quite get around to drinking it. Ever start the washing machine without putting clothes in it. Come on, admit it. Projects 1/2 done sitting around because you start something, get distracted, start something else, get distracted, etc. Eventually they must go to sleep, right? Oh ya, and I got that coffee last night at 10:00 when I finally had time to sit down and enjoy it. Thankfully I drink decaf.
6.25.2012
3 Miles Feels Good!
I've decided to name my routes the Lite Side and the Dark Side. The Lite Side is the less steep side where the hill isn't quite so long. The Dark Side is the route with the ridiculously long steep hill.
So today I took a 3 mile run down the Lite Side. It felt SO good to get back into it.
Today we will be making a hot dish for a family with a new baby on our cul de sac. Also taking the van in for some repairs. Right before we moved, we had new tires put on and now there's a horrible rattle. We're hoping it's just something loose. Whatever the outcome it will be nice to have a quiet vehicle again. It's so irritating to drive around with a loud banging noise following you everywhere. Increases the blood pressure instantly.
Lars and Ali start swimming lessons today. Larson has private lessons at 2:50, so I'm hoping Ty gets down for an early nap so we don't have to cut his nap too short. Ali's is at 6:55 because daddy wanted to take her. Also gives mom a little break. I never thought I'd hear myself say it's easier with only 2 kids. It's all relative, isn't it?
Almost forgot....down 1 more pound!
Hope everyone has a nice Monday!
So today I took a 3 mile run down the Lite Side. It felt SO good to get back into it.
Today we will be making a hot dish for a family with a new baby on our cul de sac. Also taking the van in for some repairs. Right before we moved, we had new tires put on and now there's a horrible rattle. We're hoping it's just something loose. Whatever the outcome it will be nice to have a quiet vehicle again. It's so irritating to drive around with a loud banging noise following you everywhere. Increases the blood pressure instantly.
Lars and Ali start swimming lessons today. Larson has private lessons at 2:50, so I'm hoping Ty gets down for an early nap so we don't have to cut his nap too short. Ali's is at 6:55 because daddy wanted to take her. Also gives mom a little break. I never thought I'd hear myself say it's easier with only 2 kids. It's all relative, isn't it?
Almost forgot....down 1 more pound!
Hope everyone has a nice Monday!
6.23.2012
I did it!!
Yes! This morning I ran down and up that steep hill without stopping. What a great feeling! I have to admit, I had to give myself the "just do it" talk this morning. I stretched a little longer and lingered around the house for a while. I knew I had to get it done today. I have to keep moving forward.
What's next? I'm going to do it again (in a few days). I always like to conquer something twice just to make sure it wasn't a fluke the first time. Then I'll probably add a mile.
Thank you everyone for your positive thoughts and comments.
We have been in our house for two weeks now. Everyone is adjusting. The kids seemed to slip into the new routine with ease. We discovered this morning that the sprinklers wake up Larson so we'll have to set those to start at a later time. He's been getting up at 5:30 am and that's just not OK.
Even Emily is good with her new digs. According to all the information on the internet, we can start letting Emmy out a few minutes at a time so she can explore her outside world.
Yesterday we attended the Beach Party held at Prior Lake's Lakefront Park. We're rookies so we didn't realize it's an actual beach party with swimming involved, so we'll have to bring swim suits next time. They had super cheap lunch, face painting, hair coloring, and other crafts to keep the kids busy. After Jeff got home from work, we went to Valleyfair for some rides and another picnic. Apparently Ty LOVES picnics because both meals he chowed down. It was cute.
Today we are off to check out the parade route for Dan Patch parade in Savage. Ali will be in the parade with the P.L.A.Y. Cheerleaders. I have no idea where anything is located, so we're doing a little family road trip to find the drop off and pick up spots. Also on the agenda, checking out Costco (thanks for the advice FB friends!) to see if we want to join. Food is a little more spendy here than Hutch (of course) and a family of 5 eats way too much! :-) We need to start buying in bulk.
Happy Saturday my friends, and I'll keep you posted on my running success!
What's next? I'm going to do it again (in a few days). I always like to conquer something twice just to make sure it wasn't a fluke the first time. Then I'll probably add a mile.
Thank you everyone for your positive thoughts and comments.
We have been in our house for two weeks now. Everyone is adjusting. The kids seemed to slip into the new routine with ease. We discovered this morning that the sprinklers wake up Larson so we'll have to set those to start at a later time. He's been getting up at 5:30 am and that's just not OK.
Even Emily is good with her new digs. According to all the information on the internet, we can start letting Emmy out a few minutes at a time so she can explore her outside world.
Yesterday we attended the Beach Party held at Prior Lake's Lakefront Park. We're rookies so we didn't realize it's an actual beach party with swimming involved, so we'll have to bring swim suits next time. They had super cheap lunch, face painting, hair coloring, and other crafts to keep the kids busy. After Jeff got home from work, we went to Valleyfair for some rides and another picnic. Apparently Ty LOVES picnics because both meals he chowed down. It was cute.
Today we are off to check out the parade route for Dan Patch parade in Savage. Ali will be in the parade with the P.L.A.Y. Cheerleaders. I have no idea where anything is located, so we're doing a little family road trip to find the drop off and pick up spots. Also on the agenda, checking out Costco (thanks for the advice FB friends!) to see if we want to join. Food is a little more spendy here than Hutch (of course) and a family of 5 eats way too much! :-) We need to start buying in bulk.
Happy Saturday my friends, and I'll keep you posted on my running success!
6.20.2012
Gotta...conquer....that....hill
So intellectually we all know that it's harder to run up hill than on a flat surface. So actually facing that situation really brings it home.
Just outside our development you can go left or right. Both ways you start off down hill. To the right, it's a more gradual decline and less than a mile. I can run this route the whole way with some trouble, but I can run the whole thing.
To the left is a steeper hill that goes a mile or more, depending on how far you run. It's a continuous slope too. I have not been able to run the whole 2 miles yet. I say YET because I WILL eventually do it.
The good news is that it's getting easier all the way around. The flat part in our development, the declines and even the inclines are getting easier. I know it sounds funny to say the declines are getting easier because, well duh, they should be. But you still exert energy even though it's an easier run.
You know it's funny. I could go a good 3-5 miles before and now I'm struggling to go 2! Very frustrating, but I have to remind myself that running up hill for a mile or more is hard.
Just outside our development you can go left or right. Both ways you start off down hill. To the right, it's a more gradual decline and less than a mile. I can run this route the whole way with some trouble, but I can run the whole thing.
To the left is a steeper hill that goes a mile or more, depending on how far you run. It's a continuous slope too. I have not been able to run the whole 2 miles yet. I say YET because I WILL eventually do it.
The good news is that it's getting easier all the way around. The flat part in our development, the declines and even the inclines are getting easier. I know it sounds funny to say the declines are getting easier because, well duh, they should be. But you still exert energy even though it's an easier run.
You know it's funny. I could go a good 3-5 miles before and now I'm struggling to go 2! Very frustrating, but I have to remind myself that running up hill for a mile or more is hard.
6.18.2012
Get up and DO IT
I know I've posted this before, but I struggle with it too. We all want to be size 4. It's just not going to happen for everyone, but I can be had healthy as I can be, no matter what the size. My problem is getting off my duff and doing it! I can be a healthy weight. My trouble is maintaining it. It feels like the minute I sit down the pounds pile on. Seriously, why does it take one weekend to gain 4 pounds and 2 weeks to take it off? We create our own misery, don't we. But again, we can live our own dreams too.
As I was running -- up hill -- lungs and legs burning, I remember what it takes to be at my best performance. Burning lungs and legs. If you do it right the abs and arms will hurt too.
As I encourage myself to get out of bed every morning and continue to live healthy, I want to encourage everyone else who struggles. Just get up and do it. (You don't have to run 5 miles every day...do what works for you.) Knock it out one day at a time and over a few weeks you'll see success!
As I was running -- up hill -- lungs and legs burning, I remember what it takes to be at my best performance. Burning lungs and legs. If you do it right the abs and arms will hurt too.
As I encourage myself to get out of bed every morning and continue to live healthy, I want to encourage everyone else who struggles. Just get up and do it. (You don't have to run 5 miles every day...do what works for you.) Knock it out one day at a time and over a few weeks you'll see success!
6.17.2012
Got it done AND down 2 pounds!
I'm happy to report, this momto3monkies is 2 pounds lighter! Back on the down swing. How'd I do it? I took advantage of the tracking on Weight Watchers (ya, it helps to actually use the program especially if you're paying for it!) and ran or walked every day. Sometimes taking an extra walk in the evening.
The unpacking is DONE!! The garage is cleared!! All furniture is built!! The walls have been touched up with fresh paint. I think we're ready to party. It will be fun to celebrate Ty's birthday and Father's Day with our family in our new house. Now to hit the grocery store so we have food for this party.
The unpacking is DONE!! The garage is cleared!! All furniture is built!! The walls have been touched up with fresh paint. I think we're ready to party. It will be fun to celebrate Ty's birthday and Father's Day with our family in our new house. Now to hit the grocery store so we have food for this party.
6.16.2012
Ty is 2!
Today my littlest monkey is 2! Our little party will be tomorrow. Big THANK YOU to Dora for making his cake. Isn't it cute?!
It's been pretty non-eventful the last few days. I'm been a good girl watching what I eat and getting out for a run every day.
Unpacking is going well. Everything is out of the garage and we need to rearrange a few things so we can get Jeff's car in the garage. The only things we have left is building the cubie for the entryway and doing some touch-up painting after the movers mucked up the walls.
Yesterday was an unusually weird day. In the morning we had Direct TV come out and install satellite TV. Yep, we lost our mind and tried to bundle with Mediacom. What a joke. Not only was the service less than satisfactory, the tech was completely rude. He didn't even want to turn the TVs on to make sure they worked. He rolled his eyes when I made him wait until I logged on to the internet to make sure it worked. Then he told Larson to back off when he was showing us how to use the remotes. Excuse me!!! Larson needs to know how to use the remotes just as much was Jeff and I do. Geez!! In any event, the TV is back to Direct. Even better, the shows we previously recorded were still on the boxes so the kids have all their shows. Just as the Direct tech was getting done, the Warnier Stellian tech came to look at our dryer. The display isn't lighting up like it should. Talk about another episode of "duh!" I had to call 3 times to try to explain the problem and get someone out. Apparently the display not working isn't enough for a repair run. ARGH. So anyway, he got here to diagnose the problem only to tell me he needed to order a part. By the way, he knew what the problem was before coming out, but didn't order a part and wait for it to come in before coming out. Now he needs to make another stop. Well, whatever, we're not paying for it, and it wasn't too much of an inconvenience, but still! (Side note, we LOVE Warner Stellian. They've been awesome to work with so far. Just a little amazed at how some systems work. Systems should not reflect the kindness of the people who are forced to use them.)
Just as we think the end of the day was upon us last night, Larson appeared to have pink eye. We find the nearest Urgent Care and run him out. Jeff and Larson waited 1 1/2 hours to get diagnosed. A Walgreens nearby was open 24/7 so they were able to get the prescription filled. They got home by 10:30, eye drops in, and off to bed.
You know, every day we think we're going to get stuff done around the house and almost every evening something comes up. I think God is telling me something. Slow down and take it as it comes.
On to the next big adventure....Saturday! Ty is 2! Ali has her first cheerleading camp, and it's our last day to organize/clean/paint before the big birthday party tomorrow. This will be an interesting day. Will we get it all done? Stay tuned.....
It's been pretty non-eventful the last few days. I'm been a good girl watching what I eat and getting out for a run every day.
Unpacking is going well. Everything is out of the garage and we need to rearrange a few things so we can get Jeff's car in the garage. The only things we have left is building the cubie for the entryway and doing some touch-up painting after the movers mucked up the walls.
Yesterday was an unusually weird day. In the morning we had Direct TV come out and install satellite TV. Yep, we lost our mind and tried to bundle with Mediacom. What a joke. Not only was the service less than satisfactory, the tech was completely rude. He didn't even want to turn the TVs on to make sure they worked. He rolled his eyes when I made him wait until I logged on to the internet to make sure it worked. Then he told Larson to back off when he was showing us how to use the remotes. Excuse me!!! Larson needs to know how to use the remotes just as much was Jeff and I do. Geez!! In any event, the TV is back to Direct. Even better, the shows we previously recorded were still on the boxes so the kids have all their shows. Just as the Direct tech was getting done, the Warnier Stellian tech came to look at our dryer. The display isn't lighting up like it should. Talk about another episode of "duh!" I had to call 3 times to try to explain the problem and get someone out. Apparently the display not working isn't enough for a repair run. ARGH. So anyway, he got here to diagnose the problem only to tell me he needed to order a part. By the way, he knew what the problem was before coming out, but didn't order a part and wait for it to come in before coming out. Now he needs to make another stop. Well, whatever, we're not paying for it, and it wasn't too much of an inconvenience, but still! (Side note, we LOVE Warner Stellian. They've been awesome to work with so far. Just a little amazed at how some systems work. Systems should not reflect the kindness of the people who are forced to use them.)
Just as we think the end of the day was upon us last night, Larson appeared to have pink eye. We find the nearest Urgent Care and run him out. Jeff and Larson waited 1 1/2 hours to get diagnosed. A Walgreens nearby was open 24/7 so they were able to get the prescription filled. They got home by 10:30, eye drops in, and off to bed.
You know, every day we think we're going to get stuff done around the house and almost every evening something comes up. I think God is telling me something. Slow down and take it as it comes.
On to the next big adventure....Saturday! Ty is 2! Ali has her first cheerleading camp, and it's our last day to organize/clean/paint before the big birthday party tomorrow. This will be an interesting day. Will we get it all done? Stay tuned.....
6.13.2012
Getting it done one box at a time.
We are slowly clearing the boxes out of the garage. I think we may get Jeff's car in the garage by the weekend....and it's a 3 car garage! Uffda! We've never taken this long to unpack and organize. We've never moved with 3 kids either! Our goal was to unpack at least 4 boxes every day. I must say, it was a good goal because I think it'll work. Our huge hurry is Ty's 2nd birthday party is scheduled for Sunday. If not for that we wouldn't be so stressed out about it. However, I'm thankful we have a goal pushing us.
So my past post I fessed up to a weight gain. Good news. This morning I got up and ran about 2-3 miles (not exactly sure how far because I haven't mapped it yet), and this afternoon we took 2 walks. Yay! Feeling much better now. Back on the bandwagon.
We had a bit of drama this afternoon. Larson slammed his hand in the door. As I was trying to get Ty off my lap so I could help Larson, Ali lets out a blood curling scream. Larson had blood on his forehead. At this point I have no idea what's going on other than Larson is bleeding and Ali is freaking out. After some investigating, the blood on his forehead came from his finger and it appeared that his appendage was fine. We got it washed up and bandaged and he's good to go.
Whew! Starting this summer break off with a bang!
So my past post I fessed up to a weight gain. Good news. This morning I got up and ran about 2-3 miles (not exactly sure how far because I haven't mapped it yet), and this afternoon we took 2 walks. Yay! Feeling much better now. Back on the bandwagon.
We had a bit of drama this afternoon. Larson slammed his hand in the door. As I was trying to get Ty off my lap so I could help Larson, Ali lets out a blood curling scream. Larson had blood on his forehead. At this point I have no idea what's going on other than Larson is bleeding and Ali is freaking out. After some investigating, the blood on his forehead came from his finger and it appeared that his appendage was fine. We got it washed up and bandaged and he's good to go.
Whew! Starting this summer break off with a bang!
6.12.2012
Moving weight gain...bluck!
Ugh, with all that work moving boxes and climbing stairs in 90 degree heat, I still gained weight! Guess all that eating out didn't help. Only 4 pounds isn't so bad. Jeff and I are going to have to set a schedule so I can exercise. We don't have so many errands to run today so I'm planning to get out for a walk with the kids to explore the neighborhood. Maybe we'll hit the park too.
On the up side, the kids have already spent one hour reading for their Booka-wocky challenge! They click it off 10 minutes at a time. So proud of their hard work.
The house is coming together nicely. The living room is pretty much set up. Last night we built the new end tables and found the lamps....including their shades AND light bulbs. It was a productive night.
On the up side, the kids have already spent one hour reading for their Booka-wocky challenge! They click it off 10 minutes at a time. So proud of their hard work.
The house is coming together nicely. The living room is pretty much set up. Last night we built the new end tables and found the lamps....including their shades AND light bulbs. It was a productive night.
6.11.2012
Valleyfair break!
Since I was able to unpack our goal of at least 4 boxes today, we treated the kids to Valleyfair this evening. What a perfect evening! Coolish Monday evening = no lines!
Also, Mondays kids eat free at Dickey's in the park. On our way, we had to take pics with Snoopy.
What a great day!
Also, Mondays kids eat free at Dickey's in the park. On our way, we had to take pics with Snoopy.
What a great day!
Do we have a babysitter?
Very busy day today! Jeff's back at work. It's all mom today. Our goal is to unpack 4-10 boxes each day. Ty's 2 yr birthday party is on Sunday and we would like to have things as organized as possible.
We stopped at the library, got cards for the kids and signed up for Bookawocky. Bookawocky is the library's summer program to keep kids reading. Every 5 hours they read, they get a prize. It's a great incentive to get them reading and keep them quiet during nap time. :-)
The kids got a tour of the new school. They'll be attending Five Hawks Elementary. Ms. Dawn was a very good tour guide and I think the kids will really like their school. It's much smaller with only 3-4 classrooms per grade. Of course there are something like 7 elementary schools in the area so each school can be small.
Ali's really thinking about stuff today. In the car she asked if we had a babysitter. The conversation goes like this:
Ali: Mom, do we have a babysitter yet?
Mom: No.
Ali: Well, I saw something on TV about babysitters online. You should go on the computer and get one. I don't know the address, and the commercial will never be on again, so you won't be able to do it.
Mom: OK, well was it care.com?
Ali: How did you know!
Mom: Would you like a babysitter from the internet that we've never met before and we don't know?
Ali: Ya mom, that would be fun!
Oh gosh. Advertising works!
We stopped at the library, got cards for the kids and signed up for Bookawocky. Bookawocky is the library's summer program to keep kids reading. Every 5 hours they read, they get a prize. It's a great incentive to get them reading and keep them quiet during nap time. :-)
The kids got a tour of the new school. They'll be attending Five Hawks Elementary. Ms. Dawn was a very good tour guide and I think the kids will really like their school. It's much smaller with only 3-4 classrooms per grade. Of course there are something like 7 elementary schools in the area so each school can be small.
Ali's really thinking about stuff today. In the car she asked if we had a babysitter. The conversation goes like this:
Ali: Mom, do we have a babysitter yet?
Mom: No.
Ali: Well, I saw something on TV about babysitters online. You should go on the computer and get one. I don't know the address, and the commercial will never be on again, so you won't be able to do it.
Mom: OK, well was it care.com?
Ali: How did you know!
Mom: Would you like a babysitter from the internet that we've never met before and we don't know?
Ali: Ya mom, that would be fun!
Oh gosh. Advertising works!
6.09.2012
Still no coffee!
For the love of Pete! I finally dig out the coffee maker and buy coffee, and I can't find the filters. Doh!
Day 2 is O.V.E.R! Almost everything is moved. It turns out we left one or two things at the other house, but we have to go back in a few weeks to clean up. No biggie.
Bedrooms are pretty much set up. We have TV and internet access. There are a bunch of boxes in the garage, in which are Ty's clothes....somewhere. We've done nothing in the kitchen so that's my big project for tomorrow.
The kids were VERY well behaved today. After the moving truck took off, some kids came over to invite Lars and Ali to go swimming at a neighbor's house. They were only gone for 30 minutes, but they had fun meeting new kids. A few minutes later, there was another knock on the door for the kids to play. Yay! I had a nice conversation with the people across the street. Most of the people in this area have young families. This couple is more toward retirement age. Also, they are originally from Brazil. I had met the wife when we were first looking at the area and the layout of our house. She let us tour their house. When we saw each other today, she waived big and said "you're finally here!" We exchanged hugs and had a long conversation. What a nice couple. Actually everyone around here is nice, and of course they all have dogs. Emily has her work cut out for her.
Oh yes, and the water heater. It's fixed! When we were loading the truck in Hutch the builder ran out and fixed it. Not a biggie. Apparently something happened when they added the water softner. All he had to do was turn it off and on again. SO looking forward to a nice shower.
Ty seems to have settled in nicely. He took a nap with very little problems and he went to bed nicely too. Ali and Larson love their rooms. They enjoy having a bathroom to share and a family room mostly just for them. It's nice for mom and dad too. Our living room isn't cluttered and noisy, and we get to watch whatever WE want. Yay us!
Day 2 is O.V.E.R! Almost everything is moved. It turns out we left one or two things at the other house, but we have to go back in a few weeks to clean up. No biggie.
Bedrooms are pretty much set up. We have TV and internet access. There are a bunch of boxes in the garage, in which are Ty's clothes....somewhere. We've done nothing in the kitchen so that's my big project for tomorrow.
The kids were VERY well behaved today. After the moving truck took off, some kids came over to invite Lars and Ali to go swimming at a neighbor's house. They were only gone for 30 minutes, but they had fun meeting new kids. A few minutes later, there was another knock on the door for the kids to play. Yay! I had a nice conversation with the people across the street. Most of the people in this area have young families. This couple is more toward retirement age. Also, they are originally from Brazil. I had met the wife when we were first looking at the area and the layout of our house. She let us tour their house. When we saw each other today, she waived big and said "you're finally here!" We exchanged hugs and had a long conversation. What a nice couple. Actually everyone around here is nice, and of course they all have dogs. Emily has her work cut out for her.
Oh yes, and the water heater. It's fixed! When we were loading the truck in Hutch the builder ran out and fixed it. Not a biggie. Apparently something happened when they added the water softner. All he had to do was turn it off and on again. SO looking forward to a nice shower.
Ty seems to have settled in nicely. He took a nap with very little problems and he went to bed nicely too. Ali and Larson love their rooms. They enjoy having a bathroom to share and a family room mostly just for them. It's nice for mom and dad too. Our living room isn't cluttered and noisy, and we get to watch whatever WE want. Yay us!
Not without some bumps.
So I've had 5 hours of sleep. As I sit here in my empty living room with no breakfast nor coffee, I reflect on yesterday. We had a pretty good day yesterday. We're disappointed that we didn't get more done, but we got the minimum completed. Got the beds up! Lots of boxes in the garage and kitchen. Also managed to buy a new TV for the family room downstairs. Since the cable is being installed this afternoon, we thought it appropriate to have all the right appliances. The TV we were going to use is ancient and we weren't sure we would be able to hook it up! The kids will be surprised!
At closing the builders told us we'd find things the need some extra work or need to be replaced. YEP! As I sit here (cross legged on the floor) we don't have hot water. Not sure how the shower thing is going to go today. Waiting to hear back from someone on who to call about that. Also, the dryer will need to be replaced. The display appears to be broken. The dryer, we can live with for a while because it actually works. Hot water is another story.
Met many many neighbors. We were happy to hear that there are about 27 kids on this block! One family even has an 8 yr old, 6 yr old, and expecting any day. Perfect match! We'll have to try to find them today. However, in this heat, I'm sure the very pregnant mom will be in the house today....I should bring something over for them. Oh ya, we're busy unpacking and I have no idea which house they live in! But that's just how I roll.
Today we will bring home load 2 and the kids. Yikes! Moving stuff in with the kids helping. This will be interesting.
At closing the builders told us we'd find things the need some extra work or need to be replaced. YEP! As I sit here (cross legged on the floor) we don't have hot water. Not sure how the shower thing is going to go today. Waiting to hear back from someone on who to call about that. Also, the dryer will need to be replaced. The display appears to be broken. The dryer, we can live with for a while because it actually works. Hot water is another story.
Met many many neighbors. We were happy to hear that there are about 27 kids on this block! One family even has an 8 yr old, 6 yr old, and expecting any day. Perfect match! We'll have to try to find them today. However, in this heat, I'm sure the very pregnant mom will be in the house today....I should bring something over for them. Oh ya, we're busy unpacking and I have no idea which house they live in! But that's just how I roll.
Today we will bring home load 2 and the kids. Yikes! Moving stuff in with the kids helping. This will be interesting.
6.08.2012
Moving Day 1
Yay! It was a long night of packing and putting boxes in the garage. The kids were at my parents' house yesterday evening so we could pack. We made the mistake of leaving them there too long and they became over tired. The big kids went to bed OK, not without a few tears from Ali. (girl drama) Ty was up crying in his crib for an hour. I broke down and sat in his room until he fell asleep. Didn't take long, but it felt like forever in the moment. He was so cute....he would stand up and I'd say "nigh night, nigh night." He'd pop back down. Toddlers are adorable. I should have been annoyed that I had to sit in his room when I had so much to do, but I enjoyed the quiet time in the dark for a few minutes.
So we're up eating breakfast waiting for the kids to wake up. Breakfast consists of a piece of cheese and an apple. We forgot to buy milk yesterday and the toaster's packed. The milk we do have is being saved for the kids to use today.
Huge day ahead of us. Our plan: closing at 11, drop off a small load at the new house, and head home to load the moving van. (From new house to old house is about an hour drive.) The kids are staying home with a sitter this morning/afternoon. After we get the van loaded we head out to unload and start unpacking, setting up beds, etc. The kids are staying at mom's for the night we can concentrate on preparing the house for them. I feel bad leaving them all day, but in the end it'll be easier and less stressful on all of us.
Also tricky, we have to keep the cat in the house so we can get her moved with us. She's normally outside all day. This will definitely be an interesting day for everyone.
Day 2 will involve professional movers for the big stuff, more loading, unloading, unpacking, and bringing the kids to the new house.
Will continue to blog progress as I have time.
So we're up eating breakfast waiting for the kids to wake up. Breakfast consists of a piece of cheese and an apple. We forgot to buy milk yesterday and the toaster's packed. The milk we do have is being saved for the kids to use today.
Huge day ahead of us. Our plan: closing at 11, drop off a small load at the new house, and head home to load the moving van. (From new house to old house is about an hour drive.) The kids are staying home with a sitter this morning/afternoon. After we get the van loaded we head out to unload and start unpacking, setting up beds, etc. The kids are staying at mom's for the night we can concentrate on preparing the house for them. I feel bad leaving them all day, but in the end it'll be easier and less stressful on all of us.
Also tricky, we have to keep the cat in the house so we can get her moved with us. She's normally outside all day. This will definitely be an interesting day for everyone.
Day 2 will involve professional movers for the big stuff, more loading, unloading, unpacking, and bringing the kids to the new house.
Will continue to blog progress as I have time.
6.07.2012
So what's it like to build?
You know, all the chaos the past 2 months, I forgot to blog about the joys of building a new house. Actually, it's been relatively easy. There have been a few bumps but for the most part, we've have very little issues. In fact, the house is completely finished and yesterday was my first trip to Menards....to get a mailbox of all things! The builder pretty much did it all. Painted, installed floor covering, cabinets, and appliances. Even siding, sod, and a sprinkler system. Not without cost of course.
We did pick out our paint, cabinets, flooring, appliances, lights, directed where to put the plug-ins, trees and rocks. Everyone we worked with were very nice. If anyone needs referrals, I have tons!
Bumps: We didn't do our homework. We had NO idea how much things cost. When it came to our allowances, we were pretty clueless. My advice, do your homework and find out how much things cost BEFORE you sign the Purchase Agreement. You may be able to negotiate allowances up front. For example, we asked when we signed the Purchase Agreement if the "landscaping allowance" would cover the sod and two trees that were required by the city. Of course they said "yes." Nothing was put in writing other than the amount we were given. We get the estimate from the landscaper and, no, the cost doesn't cover everything that's required by the city. By over $800. This was NOT OK. After some finagling, the builder agreed to pay for it. Of course we're paying a little more for some extras, but not much.
Another bump, financing. Not that we couldn't afford it, or that we had to jump through loop holes. Have LOTS of patience and be ready to find all sorts of proof and paperwork. It's a hassle for sure, but once you get it all done, it's done. We had to proove funds in our savings were coming from a paycheck, every deposit had to be explained. Even our IRS tax credit needed proof. Seriously annoying. Also annoying, but for good reason, we had to proove we have 6 months of mortgage payments available to us before even being accepted. I know this isn't always the case, but for some reason that's what happened to us.
Smooth Sailing: Everything else. When we met with the decorator to pick colors, siding, carpet, vinyl (yes, we went vinyl because of having young kids), cabinets, drawer pulls, etc., our realtor was there to give suggestions, and the decorator was excellent at giving us ideas. Half way through I wanted to give up and let someone else do it, but we made it through. LOTS of decisions. Very hard to pick things out for a house that hasn't even broken ground yet. Lighting was pretty easy to pick out to. We did have to go back and make some changes (buyer's remorse), but even that was easy to do. The sales person was excellent about it. Even got a hug. :-) We tried to run out to the house once a week to check on progress and it seemed to click along once the walls were framed.
Compromise: We went into this with a laundry list of must haves. Ya right. We compromised on a few things (soak tub, granite, hard wood floors, 2 story) to get what was most important. A completely finished house. Because we were willing to give up a few things, we could put that money into completing the entire house. Everyone has their own room and there are plenty of bathrooms. There's lots of living and playing space. For us, it's more important to have the house finished than to have granite countertops. In reality, we can more easily put in countertops and wood flooring than to finish a basement. Seriously, plumbing, electric, drywall....ick! We opted for a split level with a large entryway versus a 2-story and in the end, we actually like it better. We're currently in a 2-story and it really stinks that when one person wakes up, everyone wakes up. The way we placed family members and their rooms will help in that aspect. It's great to walk in with a wish list and must haves, but it's super important to be willing to compromise based on the reality of your situation.
Anything else? I think that's all for now. We are very excited about his new adventure. We will miss our friends for sure.
We did pick out our paint, cabinets, flooring, appliances, lights, directed where to put the plug-ins, trees and rocks. Everyone we worked with were very nice. If anyone needs referrals, I have tons!
Bumps: We didn't do our homework. We had NO idea how much things cost. When it came to our allowances, we were pretty clueless. My advice, do your homework and find out how much things cost BEFORE you sign the Purchase Agreement. You may be able to negotiate allowances up front. For example, we asked when we signed the Purchase Agreement if the "landscaping allowance" would cover the sod and two trees that were required by the city. Of course they said "yes." Nothing was put in writing other than the amount we were given. We get the estimate from the landscaper and, no, the cost doesn't cover everything that's required by the city. By over $800. This was NOT OK. After some finagling, the builder agreed to pay for it. Of course we're paying a little more for some extras, but not much.
Another bump, financing. Not that we couldn't afford it, or that we had to jump through loop holes. Have LOTS of patience and be ready to find all sorts of proof and paperwork. It's a hassle for sure, but once you get it all done, it's done. We had to proove funds in our savings were coming from a paycheck, every deposit had to be explained. Even our IRS tax credit needed proof. Seriously annoying. Also annoying, but for good reason, we had to proove we have 6 months of mortgage payments available to us before even being accepted. I know this isn't always the case, but for some reason that's what happened to us.
Smooth Sailing: Everything else. When we met with the decorator to pick colors, siding, carpet, vinyl (yes, we went vinyl because of having young kids), cabinets, drawer pulls, etc., our realtor was there to give suggestions, and the decorator was excellent at giving us ideas. Half way through I wanted to give up and let someone else do it, but we made it through. LOTS of decisions. Very hard to pick things out for a house that hasn't even broken ground yet. Lighting was pretty easy to pick out to. We did have to go back and make some changes (buyer's remorse), but even that was easy to do. The sales person was excellent about it. Even got a hug. :-) We tried to run out to the house once a week to check on progress and it seemed to click along once the walls were framed.
Compromise: We went into this with a laundry list of must haves. Ya right. We compromised on a few things (soak tub, granite, hard wood floors, 2 story) to get what was most important. A completely finished house. Because we were willing to give up a few things, we could put that money into completing the entire house. Everyone has their own room and there are plenty of bathrooms. There's lots of living and playing space. For us, it's more important to have the house finished than to have granite countertops. In reality, we can more easily put in countertops and wood flooring than to finish a basement. Seriously, plumbing, electric, drywall....ick! We opted for a split level with a large entryway versus a 2-story and in the end, we actually like it better. We're currently in a 2-story and it really stinks that when one person wakes up, everyone wakes up. The way we placed family members and their rooms will help in that aspect. It's great to walk in with a wish list and must haves, but it's super important to be willing to compromise based on the reality of your situation.
Anything else? I think that's all for now. We are very excited about his new adventure. We will miss our friends for sure.
Moving weekend
The long awaited date is coming. The house is done and we're moving this weekend. Closing tomorrow, and we're doing this move in two days. Day 1 is tomorrow after close, we'll run home, finish packing the truck, grab the kids and head out. Day 2 is Saturday when the movers come to get the big stuff.
This week has been completely nuts. Getting last minute errands run between nap schedules and big kid schedules has been tricky.
Today hasn't been much different. Errands are run and boxes are mostly packed. MOSTLY. Still have the odds and ends stuff. We are so thankful for my parents to watch the kids tonight so we can get the last minute stuff done. Also, we don't have many toys out and there's nothing to eat, so it's not place for kids right now.
The cat has a big surprise coming. Emily is an inside/outside cat. She LOVES to be outside all day in the summer. She's going to be very bummed when she can't get out tomorrow and will need to be caged. Not sure how that's going to go, but what I hear from others who've moved with cats, it's going to be fine.
The other thing that's been a bit of a surprise for us is the challenge of moving a whole family of 5! Last time we moved, Lars and Ali were little. Wasn't much to moving them. Now we have beds, dressers, toys, books, etc. Great way to clean out though! It's also teaching the kids how to live with less. Making the tough decisions about what to keep, trash, or donate.
Enough blogging for now. I'll try to keep everyone posted as our moving days progress.
This week has been completely nuts. Getting last minute errands run between nap schedules and big kid schedules has been tricky.
Today hasn't been much different. Errands are run and boxes are mostly packed. MOSTLY. Still have the odds and ends stuff. We are so thankful for my parents to watch the kids tonight so we can get the last minute stuff done. Also, we don't have many toys out and there's nothing to eat, so it's not place for kids right now.
The cat has a big surprise coming. Emily is an inside/outside cat. She LOVES to be outside all day in the summer. She's going to be very bummed when she can't get out tomorrow and will need to be caged. Not sure how that's going to go, but what I hear from others who've moved with cats, it's going to be fine.
The other thing that's been a bit of a surprise for us is the challenge of moving a whole family of 5! Last time we moved, Lars and Ali were little. Wasn't much to moving them. Now we have beds, dressers, toys, books, etc. Great way to clean out though! It's also teaching the kids how to live with less. Making the tough decisions about what to keep, trash, or donate.
Enough blogging for now. I'll try to keep everyone posted as our moving days progress.
5.03.2012
What a difference a new pair of pants makes!
Yay! I bought a new pair of capris! As you know, I went through some weight loss last summer. I didn't quite make it into my size 8 capris from a few years ago, so I hung on to them "assuming" I'd loose more weight this winter and be able to wear them again now. Major fail there, but I didn't gain too much over the winter.
So as Stacy and Clinton (from "What Not to Wear") would say, dress your body in the size that it is. Hanging on to the smaller size is actually frustrating and holding me back. I get so irritated when I walk in the closet, and that's not right. I really can't be ashamed. I'm in size 10 pants! A year ago at this time I was in size 14/16. I need to keep reminding myself that maybe 8s are a little bit of a stretch for me right now. So off to the church garage sale they went!
Long story short, I went shopping and found some pants that fit PERFECTLY AND I look fantastic in them. I may never take them off! Actually I'm going to get another pair tomorrow. And to think....all that time agonizing over something so stupid as 1 pant size. I could have been feeling fantistic a long time ago.
Another major bonus. I feel so good, I re-found my motivation to keep eating healthy and exercising. When I was so bummed about the old clothes, my thoughts were way too negative and self defeating. Who knows, maybe by the end of the summer I'll be able to run to the store to get a few new pairs of size 8 capris! Wouldn't that be fun?!?!
So as Stacy and Clinton (from "What Not to Wear") would say, dress your body in the size that it is. Hanging on to the smaller size is actually frustrating and holding me back. I get so irritated when I walk in the closet, and that's not right. I really can't be ashamed. I'm in size 10 pants! A year ago at this time I was in size 14/16. I need to keep reminding myself that maybe 8s are a little bit of a stretch for me right now. So off to the church garage sale they went!
Long story short, I went shopping and found some pants that fit PERFECTLY AND I look fantastic in them. I may never take them off! Actually I'm going to get another pair tomorrow. And to think....all that time agonizing over something so stupid as 1 pant size. I could have been feeling fantistic a long time ago.
Another major bonus. I feel so good, I re-found my motivation to keep eating healthy and exercising. When I was so bummed about the old clothes, my thoughts were way too negative and self defeating. Who knows, maybe by the end of the summer I'll be able to run to the store to get a few new pairs of size 8 capris! Wouldn't that be fun?!?!
1.23.2012
And another one bit the dust
Yesterday evening Larson was the last in the family to get hit by the flu bug. We lucked out and he didn't get it too bad. He would have been able to go back to school today, but the 24 hour rule kept him home. That's OK. He's very definitely fully recovered now. I didn't have to work today and the roads were icky so I didn't want to go anywhere anyway.
The good news in all this? I got my exercise today by shoveling the driveway this afternoon. A complete workout at home. Jeff was working from home so I was able to get out while Ty was napping. Seriously, I was excited to get a good work out. Especially since I've been stuck at home with sick kids or being sick myself.
Here's to hoping we all get a good night's sleep tonight. No more pukies!
Good night everyone!
The good news in all this? I got my exercise today by shoveling the driveway this afternoon. A complete workout at home. Jeff was working from home so I was able to get out while Ty was napping. Seriously, I was excited to get a good work out. Especially since I've been stuck at home with sick kids or being sick myself.
Here's to hoping we all get a good night's sleep tonight. No more pukies!
Good night everyone!
1.21.2012
What the (bleep) just happened?
It's been one of those weeks! Tuesday night, Ali woke up throwing up and diarrhea. The whole night was full of bathroom runs and laundry. She stayed home from school on Wednesday and Thursday. I have to say how lucky we are that I can be home with the kids. No pressure to get them back to school/daycare so I can work. Granted I was supposed to teach class on Wednesday, we were able to work things out. (Of course the kids get sick on the ONE day I lecture.)
Friday I woke up sick. Thankfully only sick feeling stomach and minor diarrhea. I was scheduled to be in school to be available for questions since I wasn't in on Wednesday. Well, I went anyway. Given my options--stay home and have enough energy for Ty vs. go to school and sit at a desk--I was OK with going. By the time I got home, Ty was napping and I knew Jeff would be home shortly after Ty woke up. I was going to make it through the day!
Last night around 1:00 am, I hear Ty throw up in his crib. ACK! As I was getting Ty cleaned up, he looked at me like "what the h*** just happened, what's going on here, why did that happen?" We got his crib cleaned up and put him back to bed. A while later I peeked in on him and he was awake clutching his little giraffe looking completely confused. No more incidents so far, which I'm taking as a good sign. I find very interesting how toddlers react to being sick. They're playing and minding their own business when all the sudden "blah" out comes the puke. Maybe it's lack of experience in the area of getting sick so they don't have that "pre-puke panic" that the rest of us get.
Well, just hoping the rest of this weekend pulls off withouth a hitch.
By the way, I'm down the 5 pounds I had gained over Thanksgiving/Christmas. After yesterday I'm hoping there will be a few more.
Friday I woke up sick. Thankfully only sick feeling stomach and minor diarrhea. I was scheduled to be in school to be available for questions since I wasn't in on Wednesday. Well, I went anyway. Given my options--stay home and have enough energy for Ty vs. go to school and sit at a desk--I was OK with going. By the time I got home, Ty was napping and I knew Jeff would be home shortly after Ty woke up. I was going to make it through the day!
Last night around 1:00 am, I hear Ty throw up in his crib. ACK! As I was getting Ty cleaned up, he looked at me like "what the h*** just happened, what's going on here, why did that happen?" We got his crib cleaned up and put him back to bed. A while later I peeked in on him and he was awake clutching his little giraffe looking completely confused. No more incidents so far, which I'm taking as a good sign. I find very interesting how toddlers react to being sick. They're playing and minding their own business when all the sudden "blah" out comes the puke. Maybe it's lack of experience in the area of getting sick so they don't have that "pre-puke panic" that the rest of us get.
Well, just hoping the rest of this weekend pulls off withouth a hitch.
By the way, I'm down the 5 pounds I had gained over Thanksgiving/Christmas. After yesterday I'm hoping there will be a few more.
1.01.2012
Not So Much
Well, January 2 will be a new year's do over. I ended up being sick today. Icky tummy and a headache, but nothing else. I am so thankful for my wonderful husband who watched the kids most of the day so I could rest. Also for my mom who's been watching the boys for a few hours tonight. Lars and Ty were getting BORED in a big way.
So while I didn't get an exercising in today, I didn't eat much either. I think in all of my life I've never skipped a meal - until today.
I'm starting to feel better tonight and am making plans to hit the gym tomorrow.
So while I didn't get an exercising in today, I didn't eat much either. I think in all of my life I've never skipped a meal - until today.
I'm starting to feel better tonight and am making plans to hit the gym tomorrow.
A new year and another 5 pounds
Yes it's been a long time since I've posted anything. This fall was a little more crazy than expected.
Very excited to start the new year. I already have a new body and a new healthy attitude toward food and exercise. Looking forward to the kids' continued growing and learning. We have a wedding coming up and a couple of vacations planned.
I had taken a little health food break between Thanksgiving and yesterday which lead to a 5 pound gain. Not bad considering everything I ate. Surprisingly I'm not upset. I have the ability and plans in place to take care of it. So here's to hitting the ground running....literally.
Very excited to start the new year. I already have a new body and a new healthy attitude toward food and exercise. Looking forward to the kids' continued growing and learning. We have a wedding coming up and a couple of vacations planned.
I had taken a little health food break between Thanksgiving and yesterday which lead to a 5 pound gain. Not bad considering everything I ate. Surprisingly I'm not upset. I have the ability and plans in place to take care of it. So here's to hitting the ground running....literally.
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