Elias' Guide To Fun

When Mommy and Daddy were busy taking care of and worrying about Sissy, I was able to get away with more than I usually do!  If you find yourself as lucky as I was, here's a list of things that are fun to do!

1. Empty your dresser.  Dump your toys all over your room.  It's a blast!

















2.  Refuse to take naps.  Absolutely refuse.  It's a waste of time and you'll miss out on a lot of fun.  Beware though, when you're overtired and it's finally bedtime and you crash, you do weird things.  Like sleep with a stack of pull-ups and put on your Jordans.  And then your Mommy might call in your Daddy to look at you, and they'll take pictures and laugh at what a funny little munch you are.

3. Take off your pants!  They just slow you down, and it's easier to run to the potty without them.  Plus, you get to look at your chones when you don't have pants on!  I love changing my chones from "pider man" to "mickey".   

4.  Put stuff in your hair. I was born with rock star hair.  Hair like mine shouldn't be ignored.  I put stuff in it anytime I can.  This past week I gave myself a vanilla pudding mohawk.  It smelled and tasted delicious!  I also put Mommy's lotion in my hair, dumped a cup of water over my head, as well as a bunch of food.  I'm constantly exploring what will make my hair even more awesome than it already is.  Mommy's not too fond of this past time of mine.  After a few of my experiments, she caught me trying to get into her lotion again.  I gave her this face.  This face is my "I'm not up to nothin' Mommy" face.    You gotta work your cuteness when you get caught.  It makes my Mommy smile and melts her heart every time I give her this face.  She's like putty in my hands I tell you!

















5.  DVDS!  They are my absolute favorite!  I love changing them from player to player, although I know I'm not suppose to.  This is the #1 cause of me having to sit on the "Naughty Step."  I really don't mind sitting on the "Naughty Step" majority of the time.  I also love, love, love pressing the buttons on the tv, dvd player, and Wii.

6.  The face.  Practice your faces.  When I can tell Mommy and Daddy are really upset about me pushing buttons or playing with DVDs, I give them this face.  It's my "Me?  Huh?  I didn't do anything.  Me?  You sure you're talking to me?" face.  Play dumb with a little bit of cute.  It'll soften the punishment.

7.  Take pictures. I found my Mommy's camera and learned the art of the self portrait.  Please see the next 3 pictures.  There are 24 more but they are pretty much all the same.  If you'd like to see my superb photography skills, let me know and I'll give you pointers!  I'm totally self-taught, but I think I did pretty well.

8.   Call your Mommy by her name.  Or even better, by the name your cousins call her.  If you REALLY want to go for the big laughs, call her Grammy!

9.  Go to the park with your family.  The park has loads of fun things to do.  Like going down the slide on your tummy, riding an alligator, and a tractor. 

10. Put on your Sissy's twinkle toe shoes while your Sissy is putting on a concert with her guitar.  Refuse to acknowledge it's bedtime.

 To sum it up, just grit your teeth and have fun!  Fun can be had anywhere with anything.

***DISCLAIMER: Having too much fun and refusing to nap for a week and a half can cause you to totally crash in the car when your Daddy is driving you home.  Your Mommy and Sissy might then take advantage of the fact that you are completely 100% out of it and take pictures and video with you.



365 - Day 179

1.  I was able to get a lot done at work today.

2.  Unfortunately Elias came down with a fever this afternoon.  Thankful he was with his Grammy & Grandpa who took great care of him until I was able to pick him up.

3.  Omar and I are still feeling well.  Hoping it stays that way!

365 - Day 178

1.  Belle went back to school today.  Yay for feeling better and getting back to normalcy!  She cried a bit at the thought of going, but ended up having a great day.

2.  I don't ever think I've been so happy to go to work!  Again, it mean getting back to normal and that my girl was A-Okay.

3.  Not owing money on our taxes.  Hip-hip-hooray!

365 - Day 177

1.  Homemade chocolate chip cookies.

2.  Breakfast for dinner.

3.  The new season of the Celebrity Apprentice.  I big fuzzy heart Jose Canseco!

365 - Day 176

1.  FEVER FREE DAY! FEVER FREE DAY!

2.  Gorgeous day outside.

3.  Fresh air.  After a week couped up inside, we got out for some fresh air today!

Feeling Better, Dancing For Joy

365 - Day 175

1.  I'm going to go ahead and call today a fever free day!  The high of Belle's temperature today was 99.3.

2.  Belle ate all 3 meals today in full!  Not just 2 or 3 bites.  Appetite is back!

3.  My girl is definitely recovering.  She was in great spirits today and had a ton more energy!

Ain't Too Proud To Beg

I've debated whether or not to blog about this in detail. In fact, I've been writing this since Tuesday morning, and have edited it numerous times. 
The last few days I've been talking asking pleading God's ears off.  I don't think God has heard from me in the past year as much as He has in the last 120 hours.  I truly don't believe there are any actual atheists in this world.  Put anyone who says they are in the middle of a living nightmare, and I guarantee they are going to start asking for help from a higher power, just in case there is one.  

As I've discussed before, I'm a believer.  I very much believe in God, and believe that God wants everyone to be healthy and happy.  Sickness is not caused by God.  It's not a punishment, it's not of God.  That said, God is no respecter of persons.  I don't believe that God picks and chooses who gets to be healthy just because of how much cash you drop into a donation plate, or how nicely you dress on Sunday, or because you won't stop asking. However, I believe in prayer.  I believe in asking God for help, strength, and courage to overcome whatever obstacle that is in the way.  This said, I still spent the last numerous hours bargaining and negotiating with the Big Man.  Now I know that God doesn't operate like this.  Still, I bargained.  "I will do absolutely anything you want God, just let my daughter be okay."  "Dear God, please, if someone has to be sick, give me whatever it is she has." " Please God, please don't let her have leukemia, name your price and I'll do it." As if God has a price.  Ridiculous, I know.  I know God wants my daughter to be healthy.  He wants her to have a long, happy, healthy full life.  Still, I ain't too proud to beg.  And beg I did.

My children are everything to me.  I can't imagine my life without them.  I wouldn't want a life without them.  I wouldn't have a life without them. Now before you go jumping to the "you are more than just a mom, your identity shouldn't only be in your kids", I know that. I strongly believe in having one's own identity.  And yes, I am a wife, a mother, a daughter, etc.  But above all, I'm me, Stacy.  I've heard it said somewhere that when you give birth, you also give birth to your heart.  At that very moment your heart ceases to live inside of your body, and instead, lives outside of your body.  This is the most accurate metaphor I can come up with for how much my children mean to me.  A body needs a heart to survive.  I need my kids. 

Isabelle came down with a high fever a week ago.  She's had no other symptoms other than a high fever and a headache.  This began on a Thursday night.  Immediately I thought "flu".  I cancelled an appointment I had for Friday, and arranged to work from home.  I thought, "Of course, right before the weekend".  Why does that always seem to happen when a doctor isn't readily available? Then her temperature shot up to 103.8.  I started to worry.  She'd never had a fever so high.  Especially without any other symptoms.  I called her Pediatrician's office to see if I should bring her in, or at what temperature I should be concerned.  I hated that she had such a high fever and the Dr.'s office would be closed on the weekend.  I wanted to be sure I was accurately educated on what I should be watching for, and when I should take her into the emergency room, if ever.  The nurse told me to keep monitoring her temperature, and use the fever reducing methods I was.  If she started seizing or hallucinating take her into the ER immediately. If she had a fever for 4 days I'd need to bring her in. The thought of my poor girl hallucinating or seizing frightened me.  I watched her like a hawk.  I figured her fever would start to come down over the weekend.  It didn't.

My mind started to go places I didn't want it to.  Scary places.  I knew that a high fever so many days in a row is a bad thing.  I knew that a fever with no other symptoms would be alarming to a doctor.  I feared what Monday would bring.  I tried to put my mind to rest and not think about Allie, Nick, or leukemia.  I kept telling myself, it's just a virus.  The fever will go away.  Monday morning came and she still had a fever.  I called to make an appointment.  It was set for 2:20pm.  I took Belle into the Dr.'s while Omar stayed home with the little guy.  The whole time I tried to calm myself and think that the Dr. would assure me it was just a virus.  I was wrong.

Her doctor was very concerned about such a high fever so many days in a row.  She wanted a blood test ran immediately.  She also found some lumps/swollen lymph nodes on her. She asked if Belle had been scratched by a cat.  A cat?? No. We don't have a cat, and Belle is never around cats.  Apparently cat scratch disease can cause swollen lymph nodes on the neck. She wanted to test for this to see if that was the cause. Off to the hospital Belle and I flew in order to get the test done in time to receive the results that night.

I've had to edit this paragraph numerous times.  It was just too horrific an experience for Belle to go into detail.  Instead I've decided to give the high level jest.  Belle's blood test involved me and another nurse holding her down while the technician took several viles of blood which took FOREVER.  I've never seen or heard my baby so upset and scream so loudly.   My poor girl felt so betrayed by me and was furious.  She said numerous hurtful things out of her anger and just wanted to be left alone.  She refused to speak to the hubby or myself for hours and shut herself up in her room wanting nothing to do anyone.  Knowing my baby was in pain and so upset and not being able to comfort her was brutal.  Not being able to just hold her in our arms when that was all we wanted and needed was torturous.

The next few hours waiting for the call was horrific.  Every second felt like an hour.  Every minute felt like a day.  I couldn't stop shaking.  My heart was racing, willing the phone to ring, yet praying it wouldn't.  Please God, please let her be okay. Omar and I would nervously make eye contact, squeeze each other's hand, hold each other tight, and reassure each other, "She's going to be fine." It took everything to not let the tears that filled our eyes run over.  We put on our bravest faces and played with Elias who seemed to run amok and curiously look at us wondering why no one was disciplining him.  We took turns going upstairs to check on Belle and see if she would finally let us in.  After a few hours she caved, and let me into her room and wanted a hug. She said she wanted to watch a movie with us and have ice cream, and that's exactly what we did.  We both sat on either side of her and squeezed her tight.  She commented, "Wow, you've never squeezed me so tight before!"  We tried to ease up as best we could, but couldn't help ourselves.  She picked Alice In Wonderland to watch, the Johnny Depp one.  Her laughter filled the air and drowned out the movie.  I gulped down my tears.  They were painful to swallow. I ran my fingers through her long, beautiful hair. Please God, no. Omar and my hands touched on her hair.  Our eyes met.  I knew his mirrored mine.  They were brim full of tears, fear, and pleading. We continued to "watch" the movie with her.  Finally I couldn't take it anymore and said I was going upstairs to make "the call". 

I knew the office was closed and I would receive the answering service.  I explained the situation and that I wanted the on call doctor.  Someone was suppose to call us with test results, the lab said they'd be in the doctor's hands an hour and a half ago.  No one had called.  It took the several minutes for the customer service lady to reach the on call doctor, who had to call the lab for the results.  In the meantime Omar had snuck upstairs.  I was kneeling on our bedroom floor on hold.  Praying.  Pleading.  Begging.  Eyes still brim full, brave face struggling to stay in place.  I told him what was going on.  He began to turn to go back downstairs to check on the kids.  And then the doctor came on the line. 

"Mrs. M.? I'm sorry it took so long.  The lab didn't fax over the test results so I had to track them down.  Isabelle's blood counts and platelets are within normal range......" Normal range, normal range, normal range. "There is definitely a sign of infection, and inflammation.  There isn't any bacterial infection. Her pdt...." Infection, inflammation, no bacteria, normal range counts "We still don't have a few of the test results back, the cat scratch fever being one of them.  That will be in at the end of the week..."  "Okay, but you said normal range?  Her blood counts and platelets?" "Yes, everything looks in normal range.  Meaning NO SIGN OF LEUKEMIA." "NO leukemia.  NO LEUKEMIA?" "That is correct, her blood actually looks really good.  No leukemia or any other type of blood disorder.  I believe what she has is very bad viral infection."  "What about other types besides leukemia?" "I would say no, because her blood would not look this good and fevers fluctuating coming down if that were the case.  If she's the same tomorrow as she is today, keep her home doing the same.  If things escalate, bring her in.  If things are the same Wednesday we most likely will want her brought in for another round of testing.  Right now we aren't positive what is going on other than she has an infection.  One that will not respond to antibiotics since it's not bacterial.  We're going to have to monitor, wait and see."  "Okay, but just to be sure, you said no cancer.  NO type of cancer to worry about?" "No, no cancer."

I hung up the phone and the tears that I had been fighting to contain for days came violently gushing out as if the dam that held them back broke. Hysterically I got out the words to Omar, "It's not leukemia.  No cancer.  She's okay." He collapsed next to me and we both sobbed and sobbed in each other's arms.  I don't think either of us have ever cried so hard in our lives. 

Every day since then Belle's fever has continuously gone down.  Each day's high is lower than the previous day.  Her doctor has been checking in daily for updates, and says we are on the right track.  She seems to be on the mend.  As for her swollen lymph nodes, the test results for the cat fever came back negative (as we knew it would).  Her doctor feels confident that the swelling is due to this nasty virus.  We're to wait two weeks after she's fever free to bring her back in to be examined.  And so I find myself still continuously talking God's ear off.  Thanking Him for the good test results.  Knowing that not all families receive good results and we've been blessed. Thanking Him that her fever is continuing to go down.  Asking Him for today to be the day that she is fever free.  Begging Him that everything resolves itself when this fever and infection goes away so that this nightmare is over.  Again and again I find myself pleading.  Please God, please.

365 - Day 174

1.  Belle's fever was almost non-existant today!

2.  The feeling that there is a light at the end of this hellish tunnel, and it's coming soon.

3.  We have so many caring, sweet, dear friends and family that love us and our kids.

365 - Day 173

1. A very sweet friend, one of Belle's little friend's mom, left a surprise for my girl on the porch.  Belle's face absolutely lit up when she saw an adorable flower arrangement, a bag of books to borrow, and a get well note.  It so lifted my little girl's spirit.

2.  Belle's highest fever today was lower than yesterday's.  Looking like she's on the mend.  Thank God!

3.  Perspective.  As horrible as going through tough times are, priorities quickly fall into place.

365 - Day172

1. Belle's fever was a little lower today

2.  Belle was hungry this morning.

3.  After a lengthy conversation with Belle's Dr. I feel a little less worried.

365 - Day 171

Today was by far the most frightening day of my life.  I may share more later, but I'm emotionally and physically exhausted.  However, what I'm thankful for had to be posted.

1.   My daughter's bloodwork came back with good results.  THANK YOU GOD!!

2.   My daughter's bloodwork came back with good results. THANK YOU GOD!!


3.  My daughter's bloodwork came back with good results. THANK YOU GOD!!

365 - Day 170

1.  Unfortunately Belle still has been fighting a high fever today.  I made a mock Thanksgiving meal for dinner as she loves turkey in hopes of enticing her to actually eat something.  It worked!  She ate some turkey, which is the most she's had since Thursday. 

2.  All of the good thoughts and prayers for my girl to get better.

3.  Hearing Belle say, "Look Mommy, look!  That's the most gorgeous dress I've ever seen!" while watching the red carpet of the Oscars.  Love that she's getting into this tradition with me.

Juggling

When I was young I wanted to be many of things when I grew up.  One of which was never a juggler.  Little did I know that I would not only learn how to juggle, but juggling would be come a necessity.  My ability to juggle would sometimes mean sink or swim.  Juggling would equal survival. 

In the last 48 hours I have been put to the Mommy test and have gone through several emotions.  Sitting on my couch in silence, I realize I've learned several things.

1.  I hate when my kids are sick.  If I could trade places with them in an instant, I would. It is a helpless feeling looking at your child who is normally full of energy and life laying pathetically on her bed shivering, crying, and burning up with a fever.

2.  When my child is sick with a high grade fever that keeps rising after I've given fever reducing medicine and I call the doctor's office for advice, I want advice immediately.  Telling me I'll receive a call back and I haven't in 10 minutes will ensure that I call you back.  Irrational yes, but my high level of patience and rationale is out the window at this point.  I will bitch, yell, moan, call you a thousand times if I must to get some help NOW.  Call it the Mama Bear in me.

3.  Potty training a healthy kid that is bouncing off the walls while tending to the sick child and attempting to work is not recommended.  In fact, it's downright stupid.

4.  Dealing with customer service lines regarding a credit that is owed you while doing all of the above #3 is again, stupid.  Completely idiotic.

5.  It is inevitable that during the 1 hour that you have an important conference call for work the healthy child who is suppose to be napping will be terrorizing his room and yelling for you to "wet me downstairs Mommy!  No take a nap!  Mommy!!! Hewoo! Ewias no take a nap!".  It is also inevitable that the sick child who is laying next to you on the couch's temperature will skyrocket at that exact same moment.  All while you are being asked questions on this conference call.  When you realize you've been asked a question and you didn't hear it over the cries and screams, you un-mute the phone and ask politely, "can you please repeat that?" to which the response by said asker is an annoyed laugh as if you're screwing around.  It takes all of your willpower at that moment to re-mute your phone for the 2.3 seconds to compose yourself and bite your tongue so you don't A)bite off this man's head and spill your guts about what a horrible, trying day you're having and B)cry.

6.  Attempting all of the above #3 makes you have horrible Mommy guilt and you feel like a big fat failure. 

7.  You find yourself being super irritated by your husband when he comes home from work.  Even the sound of his breathing makes you want to smack him upside the head and say, "DO you KNOW what kind of day I've had?!"  You realize that this is another beyond irrational emotion and then feel wife guilt and like a big fat failure.

8.  You're never too old to need your Mommy.  Especially when your Mom is Grammy and you call her for advice.

9.  Keeping a healthy 3 year old that has enough energy to power a city away from his sick sister that he adores is a full time job. An exhausting full time job.

10.  Priorities quickly fall into place when juggling.

The last 48 hours tested my juggling ability.  Some days I feel like a rock star Mom where everything seems be organized and managed just so.  My ability to juggle is quite efficient.  And then there are days like yesterday and today where there seems to be too many balls in the air and too many being thrown at me at lightening speed.  Where I can't quite keep them all up in the air and start dropping them.  I feel overwhelmed and like throwing my arms up in defeat.  Mommy guilt.  Wife guilt.  Woman guilt.  Those are horrible things. 

Why is it that we expect perfection of ourselves?  As I sit here tonight in the quiet of my house I decided to look back over the last 48 hours and instead of dissecting them for my moments of failure, I've decided to look for my accomplishments.  My daughter knows beyond a shadow of a doubt how much I love her and want her well.  I monitored her temperature religiously and did everything in my power to keep her fever under control.  My son did not break his neck, escape the house, pee or poop anywhere but in the toilet (sans one pee accident) or a pull-up during his nap.  Both children were fed, played with, cuddled, and kissed numerous times.  No one was screamed at, not even my poor breathing husband.  I managed to contribute to and participate in a conference call while dealing with absolute chaos, and even changed a poopy pull-up while on mute.  I ordered groceries online and had them delivered today since we were in need. Both of my children are sound asleep and secure in their beds.  I've handled 3/4 of their care the last 48 hours alone while Hubby was at work, running errands, and out with his brother at a seminar.

I'm not perfect.  There are numerous things over the last 48 hours that I wish I could have accomplished or accomplished better.  I reject the feelings of guilt that plague most every mom at some point. I choose today to embrace self acceptance.  I may not be a super woman, but I'm a juggler.  A damn good juggler.  I drop a ball, or three, sometimes.  But I'm getting better every day, and that ain't bad.

365 - Day 169

1.  Safeway.com.  My poor Belle is still fighting a high fever and getting out to do some much needed grocery shopping would have been impossible.  Thankful for delivery once again!

2.  For all of the family and friends who love my munchkins and are concerned when they aren't feeling well.

3.  My Mom.  It's so nice to have her to call for advice or talk through my Mommy-plan-of-attack on how to get my munchkin to feel better.

365 - Day 168

1.  I'm thankful for having an employer who understands when I need to be home with my sick child.

2.  Ibuprofen.

3.  Thankful that my children are overall healthy.  When one of them is sick it is awful.  I can't imagine parents watching their little ones deal with severe sickness.

"Damestarbaby, clothes as original as your child"

If you're looking for something adorable, hip, and unique for your wee ones go check out Damestarbaby!  They have the cutest clothes and hats for kids!  I'm hoping to win 2 shirts for my 2 little munchies.  You can enter Damestarbaby's giveaway contest too.  Just check out their blog for the details!.

365 - Day 167

1.  Great advice from friends regarding yesterdays post.

2.  It's suppose to snow here this weekend.  That NEVER happens.  I'm not sure exactly how accurate that forecast is, but we actually have a relaxing weekend ahead so being in and cozy and possibly seeing some snow has the kids excited.

3.  My poor Belle started complaining tonight that she had a headache.  This quickly escalated to her shivering on the couch covered in blankets and refusing dinner.  Poor thing had a high fever.  All of this did not make me happy.  But the snuggles I received and the poor pathetic whimpering of "Thanks Mommy, I love you" when I changed her into her jammies and tucked her into bed did. 

Stumped

How do you discipline a child who disciplines himself?  I'm at a loss.  A complete and utter loss.  I've reached into my parenting bag of tricks and realize I wasn't prepared for this.  With Isabelle when she was little I knew what I'd be getting.  I was prepared for tantrums and dramatics.  I was prepared that when I put her little hiney on the "naughty step" she would react like the world was coming to an end.  Punishment was, well, punishment.  She HATED it (and made that LOUDLY known).  And then there came Elias.

Don't let this angelic face fool you!

With Elias I'm out of my element.  This boy is as easy going as they come.  He's laid back.  He goes with the flow.  He's downright lazy at times.  He's the sweetest little lover boy you'll ever meet.  In fact, I don't think there's a mean bone in this boy's body.  That said, he's not maliciously naughty, he's mischievously naughty.  He's our little engineer.  The boy is only 3 and he knows how to work the DVD players, TVs, Wii, CD players, radios, remotes, etc.  He knows how to change inputs to put on what he wants.  He's fearless.  He will climb or scale anything to reach something he wants.  You can place things out of reach, and he can and will MacGyver anything into a step, stool, or ladder to get to it.  Added to his repertoire of tricks is that he's stealth.  He's a little ninja.  He's quiet.  Quiet as a mouse when he's doing something he shouldn't.  He also has amazing speed.  In only a few short seconds he can cause some major damage and chaos. 

The thing about my boy, he's got a conscience.  His little cricket is always on his shoulder whispering what's right and wrong.  Recently I found him standing in front of the TV having the following dialogue with himself (and his Jiminy Cricket):  "Ewias, you don't touch the buttons.  You don't touch the TV.  It's naughty.  You sit on the naughty step." As soon as he said this, he then TOUCHED THE BUTTONS.  He then proceeded with his dialogue: "No touch the buttons!  You go sit on the naughty step!"  He then walked over and SAT HIS LITTLE BUTT ON THE NAUGHTY STEP and continued disciplining himself: "You sit on the naughty step 3 minutes Ewias.  You don't touch the buttons."  I watched all of this transpire in just a few seconds.  My son having a clear struggle with the temptation of what he knew to be naughty, but he caved.  The temptation was too great.  He immediately scolded and punished himself.  I stood with my jaw hanging open, shook my head in disbelief and walked over to him to follow up. You know, since I am the parent and all and should be the one disciplining him!  He then said, "You say sorry to Mommy.  Sorry Mommy.  No touch the buttons.  Ewias be a good boy. Give a hug and a kiss." Say whaaaaat?

Seriously, what am I to do with that?!  There are no tantrums.  No resistance to apologize.  I've tried sending him to bed early.  You know the response I get?  "Nigh night Daddy! Nigh night Sissy! Nigh night Mommy!" I try taking things away.  "Here you go Mommy!"  I've tried Dr. Phil's approach of finding his currency.  The thing is, he has none!  Or none that I've found yet. The boy is seriously the most easy going kid ever.  Nothing phases him!  A friend of mine suggested rewarding good behavior instead of trying to find a punishment that works.  For example, if he goes a day without being naughty that he gets some sort of reward.  I'm willing to try anything right now!  Today I went up during his nap time and he had emptied his dresser. As soon as I saw his mess he was apologizing and cleaning it up.  Once the disaster was picked up, he went and laid himself down on his bed.  This kid has me stumped!!!  Any suggestions are gladly welcomed and appreciated!

365 - Day 166

Today's 365 revolve around my hubby.

1.  My Hubby is my hero for coming home early tonight so I didn't have to take Elias (aka the little troublemaker that was driving me nuts all day) in tow to Isabelle's dance class tonight. Made me breath a huge sigh of relief!

2.  Hubby had Elias fed and in jammies by the time Belle and I arrived home from her dance, and had Belle's dinner waiting for her.

3.  Lastly, the Hubby bought both of the kids a little surprise today which not only put huge smiles on their faces, but motivated Belle to get her homework done quickly and get ready for bed without a fuss.

SOOOOOOO thankful that my Hubs made tonight a lot easier than it could have been!  Love him!

365 - Day 165

1.  Time for myself to relax and get my hair done.

2. Mimosas.

3.  Snugging with Belle, watching Annie, and having her say, "I'm gonna cry at this part!" Such a girl!

365 - Day 165

1.  Going to see a movie on a Monday morning with my husband.  Love 3 day weekends!

2.  Baking cookies with my girl.

3.  My grandpa.  Heaven became a brighter place 12 years ago today.  My Gramps was exactly what I think a man should be. He was strong, yet gentle. His courage unwavering, his faith evident in every breath he took. He loved unconditionally, gave selflessly, and lived fearlessly. He was a pillar of strength for many, yet could be as silly and fun as a child. I count myself honored and blessed to be one of his grandchildren. I love him and miss him.

365 - Day 164

1.  The sun, it actually made an appearance today.  Loved it!

2.  A day of relaxing with my sweet little family.

3. Hearing Elias calling out "What the heck?! Ewias stuck!  What the heck!" from the other room cracked Omar and I up.  We couldn't stop laughing.

365 - Day 163

1.  Another accident free day so far with Elias in chones!  Fingers crossed he'll poop in the potty at some point today.

2.  Celebrating my wonderful father-in-law, mother-in-law, and brother-in-law's Birthdays tonight.  February is packed with Birthdays in this family!  Good times will be had!

3.  Isabelle remembered to clean her room all on her own this morning without me having to tell her.  Miracle!

365 - Day 162

1.  I deep cleaned my cube top to bottom.  Huge pain in the butt, but so nice to have it done.  I'm hoping the dust free environment will help me stop sneezing & having coughing fits all the time.

2.  Piping hot pizza delivered for dinner.  Thankful for the pizza delivery guy so I didn't have to venture out in the downpour!

3.  Reading a good book to the sound of the rain outside.

365 - Day 161

1. Today I was thankful for my huge umbrella.  It was POURING!

2.  Miss Bonnie, Isabelle's dance teacher.  Belle has been in her class since she was 2 1/2.  I adore her.  Not only is she extremely talented, but loves the girls.  It's wonderful to have such a positive influence and fabulous role model for the girls.

3.  A friend of mine is starting to potty train her twin boys.  It's so nice to have a friend to commiserate with!

365 - Day 160

1. "Pider man fruit naks!" Seemed to be incentive enough for Elias not to have an accident today.  Potty training bootcamp continues!

2.  Blueberry muffins.

3.  The accomplishment and enormous smile on Elias' face after we put his Toy Story puzzle together.

365 - Day 159

1.  Watching Elias act out Super Mario Galaxy while Omar plays it.  Hysterically funny!

2.  Kisses.

3.  The sound of rain on the window while snuggling with my girl in her bed.

Curlers, Butterflies, and Trophies

Isabelle had her first dance competition this weekend.  I'll let the pictures tell the story.



They walked away with 3 trophies!  Congrats girls, you did awesome!! So proud of you! 

365 - Day 158

1. Love.  All of the love that's in my heart.  I am blessed with countless people in my family and friends that I love, and know that love me and mine.

2.  My ILs for coming over and spending Valentine's Day with the munchkins while the Hubs and I had to work.  They made it a fun day for them, and provided us the time to enjoy our evening together as a family instead of spending it commuting.

3.  Delicious dinner and fun night spent with my three loves.

365 - Day 157

1.  Started off the morning right going to church with the fam.  First time taking Belle into Sunday School and she really enjoyed it. 

2.  Vday date with the Hubby.  We had a fabulous time going to the movies, dinner, and out for ice cream afterwards.  We rarely have time going out just the two of us, and I cherish when we do. 

3.  My parents for watching the kids so the Hubs and I could go out on our date.  They had a great time!

365 - Day 156

1.  Belle had her very 1st dance competition today.  She and the girls did fabulous!

2.  I love that Belle has such good little friends on her dance team, and I'm so glad that I'm friends with their Moms!  Great bunch of ladies!

3.  Belle and I stopped to visit my Gram on our way home from the competition. I don't get to see her often enough, and love when I am able to.  So sweet hearing her tell Belle stories about her and my Gramps.

Flashback Friday

This is Belle's "I'm meeting my baby brother!" face

365 - Day 155

1.  Playing at the park on a gorgeous day with my little man.

2.  Watching my girl rip into her Valentines she received from her classmates, accompanied by many "oohs" and "ahhs".

3.  Mint chocolate chip ice cream.

365 - Day 154

1.  Watching the girls practice their dance for the last time before their competition.  They did so good and are soooo excited for Saturday!

2.  A cocktail after an exhausting, trying day.  It was needed, believe me, and much deserved.

3.  Kiwi & blueberries.  Delicious evening snack.

365 - Day 153

1.  Toothy smiles from my littlest niece.

2.  Talking to my boy on the phone and having him say, "I wuv you Mommy, have a good day!"

3.  I had a good day breathing wise, no asthma flair ups. Between being sick a few weeks ago and the beautiful weather (which has been allergy inducing unfortunately), I've been struggling.  It was so nice to be able to breathe free and clear today.

365 - Day 152

1.  Following up on Belle's "dream come true" yesterday, I spoke with her Kindergarten teacher and had so many nice things to say about my girl.  She also gave her a thank you note for reading to the class and gave her some more warm fuzzies.  Warmed my heart!  So proud of my girl!

2.  Living in California, the weather has been gorgeous!

3.  New episode of Glee.

Blast from the Past

As I was uploading videos tonight I found some old ones I had on YouTube of Belle when she was 2. Sniff, sniff!

This one is more recent from a year and a half ago.  Always the performer!

Belle's Dream Come True

When I picked Isabelle up today she was bursting with excitement.  She told me the following story:

 "Mommy, you'll NEVER guess what happened today!  I had a DREAM COME TRUE!  I brought the book There's a Monster At the End of This Book , that was Daddy's when he was little that Abuelita gave to me yesterday, to school today.  And in community circle, I showed it to my class and gave a little book critique.  Then my teacher said I could go to my kindergarten teacher's room and read it to her whole class!  So I got to go read the book in Mrs. P's class.  To a WHOLE KINDERGARTEN CLASS!  All by myself!  And I got to sit in Mrs. P's rocking chair and the whole class listened to me read the book to them.  And I even took questions afterwords.  It was SO COOL!  Can you believe that?!  I read to a whole class all by myself!  I was like the teacher!  Later I was walking by Mrs. P's class and asked her if the boys and girls liked the story and she said no, they didn't like it.  They LOVED it!  It was a success!  Ahhh...dream come true!"

Oh my sweet little girl, you are my dream come true!  You make me one proud Mommy!

Here's Belle reading "the book", enjoy! (Please excuse Elias' noisy little feet running around!)

Practice Makes Perfect

This is Belle's first year on a competitive dance team.  She's taken dance since she was 2 and absolutely loves it.  She's takes ballet, jazz, and tap.  After much discussion we decided to allow her to be on company team this year.  Their first competition is in a week and they've been practicing like crazy!  They received their outfits a week ago during class, threw them over their normal dancewear, and did an impromptu run through for the parents.  Their outfits are little fire girl outfits.  They didn't wear the hats, so I'll have to take a picture before the actual competition of Belle in her full get-up.  I think they are adorable and do a fantastic job thanks to their fabulous teacher, Miss Bonnie.  Belle has had her as a teacher since she was 2 and loves her! (So do I!)  Here's a sneak peak!

 

 **Updated with her pictures from her dress rehersal**

365 - Day 151

1.  After much searching, reminding, and hounding Belle found the 2 jackets she lost at school!  Phew.

2.  After Belle told me about finding her jackets, she excitedly told me she had a dream come true today!  Will share what that is in another post.  So proud of her!

3.  My little batman.

365 - Day 150

1.  Superbowl Sunday = lots and lots of good eats. Nom, nom, nom!

2.  Packs won = happy husband (who is die hard Raiders fan but apparently we were rooting for the cheeseheads today).

3.  Clean hamster cage.  I had to clean it (boo!), but at least it's done.  Man Charlie, you stink!

365 - Day 149

1.  Dress rehearsal day for Belle and her friends.  They did fantastic!  Best I've seen them perform! And they looked adorable to boot!

2.  Movie night with the Hubs.

3.  Dinner out with my 3 best peeps.

365 - Day 148

1.  Delicious lunch at a new-to-me restaurant.

2.  Celebrating a sweet baby girl who is on her way.

3.  Fabulous book, can't put it down!

The Screamer

Lately at bedtime when I give the "last call", the boy replies with a boisterous scream "No time for BED!"  As Belle put it, "I'm right next to you, jeeze, you don't have to yell in my ear!"  Another "good thing he's cute" moment.

365 - Day 147

1.  Being a Mommy to 2 beautiful, healthy, hilarious kids.  I'm extremely lucky and blessed.

2.  Arroz con Pollo for dinner.  Yummers.

3.  Cocktail and a new Grey's Anatomy. 

365 - Day 146

1.  Belle's little friend's grandma for sewing and altering Belle's dance hat to fit.  She's the sweetest and I adore her!

2.  Accident free day for Elias.

3.  Feeling pretty crafty and proud of myself for figuring out a way to secure part of Belle's hat that kept coming undone.

365 - Day 145

1.  Tonight was filled with giggles with the kids and my Hubby, all four of us playing together as a family. 

2.  Hubby is feeling better.  I am hoping this is the end of the flu at our house!

3.  I received some great news that my sis and her family are coming out to visit in June, can't wait!

365 - Day 144

1.   When Belle was reading her book to me before bed, she stopped to make a comment to me and said, "wouldn't that be funny if an ant thought, "hey, who is that huge human beam up there?!"" I said "human what?" She said, "Human beam.  You know, like we're all human beams?" Oh man, that made me smile.  I told her it was human being.   She told me that makes no sense and we should be human beams.

2.  Elvis music.

3.  Freedom.

365 - Day 143

I feel like I accomplished a lot today even though I didn't step foot outside!  Poor Hubby is sick and it was a rainy day so we stayed in. 

1.  Homemade belgium waffles for breakfast.

2.  Laundry washed, folded, and put away.

3.  Clean kitchen.

365 - Day 141 & 142

Catching up again!

Day 141

1.   I made it to Friday.  Extremely long, draining week!  So glad to make it to the weekend.

2.  I began feeling better.

3. I actually slept!!

Day 142

1.  I attended a baby shower today.  It was so sweet to see the adorable expectant first time Mommy.  Can't wait for her little sweetpea to arrive!

2.  Gift cards to Build-A-Bear my girl received for her birthday from two of her friends.  It provided us a fun outing that she thouroughly enjoyed!

3.   Snuggling up with my sicky hubby and watching The Social Network.  Great film!

365 - Day 140

I'm struggling today.  I had probably the worst night's sleep last night due to asthma attacks and had to sleep sitting up.  On top of that today I've had a few more.  Running on only a few hours of sleep, today hasn't been the best and I'm really not in the best of moods.  These are the days when finding 3 things that made me smile or that I'm thankful for are so necessary!  Time to remember I'm blessed.

1.  The girls got their costumes for their competition in dance class today.  OH-EM-GEE!  They look SO STINKIN' CUTE!  Love, love, loved it!  Brought a big smile to my face tonight.

2.  My niece showing me her pajamas this morning that were hand-me-downs from Belle and being so proud!  She's such a cutie!

3.  Elias saying, "I WUV YOU MOMMY!" over and over before bed.  Love that little guy!

365 - Day 139

1.  Time to read.

2.  Hubby got home early tonight so I wouldn't have to wrangle the boy at the girl's dance class.  Hugely appreciated!

3.  Being able to breathe.  That's something that I won't ever take for granted after being diagnosed with asthma and experiencing a few horrible attacks.

365 - Day 138

1.  Some dear friends bought Elias a Batman rain jacket that comes with a cape on it, and he LOVES it.  So cute seeing him running around "flying".

2.  A day spent on the couch wrapped up in a blanket watching movies.

3.  Chicken & Rice soup.

365 - Day 137

Day late because I felt like crap yesterday.

1.  I was able to get into see my doctor and didn't have to wait too long.  Always a plus.

2.  Diagnosed with Bronchitis & the beginnings of Pnemonia again. *sigh*  At least I was prescribed meds so hopefully I'll be feeling better soon.

3.  Cough syrup that helped me sleep.

365 - Day 136

Sick again. BOO!  I don't think I ever fully recovered and maybe a long fun filled day yesterday was pushing it too much.

1.  Kleenex.  Lots and lots of kleenex.

2.  My hubby for letting me sleep until noon.

3.  Cold meds.  They are my friend.

365 - Day 135

1.  Love! Hubby's cousin got married today.  Huge congrats to Luis & Kristi!

2. Family.  I adore the Hubby's family and LOVE everytime we get together with them.  Tons of fun and tons of laughs!

3.  Family again, but this time it's not just for entertainment.  I love how much my kids are loved by their huge extended family.  It is the best feeling knowing that my kids are loved, looked out for, and cared for by so many people, 

365 - Day 134

1.  Belle and I both felt well enough to go back to school and work today.

2.  Listening to my girl read her Junie B. Jones book before bed.  She is so animated reading it!  It's so entertaining! 

3.  Elias got a haircut.  Fro be gone!

365 - Day 133

1.   Belle didn't throw up today and is feeling better.

2.  I woke up feeling crappy with a fever, but no pukes.  That's a plus.  I HATE throwing up.  Not that anyone likes to, so I suppose that's a silly thing to say!

3.  Watching my girl devour 2 chapter books today.  I love that she loves to read.

365 - Day 132

Today has been extremely challenging.  I woke up to Belle crying hysterically around 3something a.m. this morning. She may be growing up, but there's one thing about her that hasn't changed since the day she was born.  My girl gives a hysterical warning before she blows chunks and that's exactly what she did last night.  It's been what I've affectionately named Puke Fest 2011 in our house since the wee hours of the morning.  Today's 365 will reflect where I'm at right now.

1. At this very moment, there's no puke to clean up, and no hair to hold back.

2.  My boy who was bouncing off the walls with energy today, who refused to take a nap, who required 2 baths due to smearing creme/lotions/markers all over himself TWICE, is SOUND ASLEEP.  Thank you God!

3.  Only the girl is sick so far.  Hoping and praying it stays that way.

365 - Day 131

1.  3 day work week.

2.   Elias sang "Moon, moon, moon" to me twice in a row at bed time all by himself.  Adorable!

3.   Leftover birthday cake.

Sweet Spectacular Seven

My sweet Isabelle,
Seven years ago today you were born and my life changed in an instant.  Truth be told it changed the moment I found out I was pregnant with you.  My life has changed numerous times because of you.  But seven years ago was monumental. The moment I saw you and held you in my arms my heart was filled with so much love I thought it would burst.  I'm still waiting for that to happen because it doesn't seem humanely possible to love someone so much. 

Every mother should love their child and think they are wonderful.  As biased as some might think I am, I know I'm speaking the truth.  You are the best daughter! You are so much more than I could ever have hoped for.  Every day you amaze me with how intelligent you are, how caring and tender your heart is, how hysterically funny you can be, and how talented you are in so many ways.  You are my best little friend and "I love you the whole universe and back again!"  The last seven years (plus 9 months!) have been the best of my life because I've had you.  Happy seventh Birthday my snuggle girl!

xoxo
Mommy

365 - Day 130

1.  I've been a Mommy for 7 years.

2.  I couldn't have handpicked a better daughter.

3.  Spending all day with my girl on her birthday.

365 - Day 129

1.  My girl had a fabulous birthday party today with all of her little friends.  Her face was beaming the whole time, and she made out with a lot of cool stuff and a fabulous new wardrobe which she very much needed!

2.  I successfully rock climbed at the party, wasn't sure I could do it.  These old bones can still move!

3.  I got quite the workout in the bouncy houses/obstacle courses/slides helping the boy up and over things.  Completely worth the hysterical giggles that it produced!

365 - Day 128

1.  Seeing one of my dearest girlfriends today at her baby shower.  She looks gorgeous!

2.  Red velvet cupcakes at said shower.  Yummy!

3.  Passing numerous levels on the girl's DSI Super Mario Miniland Mahem game and impressing her socks off!

American Girl Dreamin'

Isabelle received an American Girl doll for Christmas from her Abuelita and Grandpa named Rebecca.  She LOVES Rebecca.  Not only that, but she's fallen in love with her American Girl Doll catalog.  She spends countless hours thumbing through that catalog day dreaming of all of the items she wants.  Said catalog is now completely worn and should be thrown out, but she would be crushed if that were to happen.  The other night I went to check on her before I went to bed and found her door closed and her light on.  This is what I found.


 





















This is Belle laying the wrong way on her bed asleep.  She's surrounded by stuffed animals.

Sound asleep.  Wonder what she's dreaming of...

I spy something on her pillow.  Oh yes, the catalog, and right next to Rebecca! I'm pretty sure she's dreaming of all of the things in her catalog she would like to have for her new BFF Rebecca.  And yes, they are wearing matching nightgowns.  A girl can dream.

Star of the Week

Belle was picked to be Star of the Week in her class last Friday. If you don't have a school aged child, this is a biiiig deal for a 6 almost 7 year old.  She was extremely excited!  The honor came with a long to-do list.

We had to make a trip to the grocery store to pick up her items for the Estimation Jar (she insisted on having 100 items in the jar) and then to Michael's for supplies for her poster.

We spent a lengthy amount of time up to our eyeballs in foam board, stickers, pictures and glue completing her poster, but it was worth it!  I think it came out pretty cute!

The week concluded with me reading one of Isabelle's favorite stories to her class, Amelia Bedelia.  Tonight she was putting her poster back up in her room and I asked her how she liked being the Star of the Week.  Her response, "Ahhhh...it was awesome!"

Flashback Friday

Awww!

Baby Envy

I'm not sure if envy is accurate.  Maybe more like nostalgia.  I spent some time at BabiesRUs lately shopping for baby shower presents.  Two of my friends are both have daughters, due a day apart.  The first one it's her second child, but first girl.  The second, it's her first child.  Walking up and down the aisles of BRU brought back a lot of memories.  Probably because my baby girl is turning 7 this Monday.

I remember being hugely pregnant and waddling down the aisles in my nesting phase.  Desperately trying to make sure I was prepared for my sweet little girl and becoming a Mommy.  Truth be told, I don't think anything prepares you.  No matter how many books you read or what you buy, becoming a Mommy is something you learn on the fly and through trial and error.  Nothing prepares you for the instant your heart completely melts and is filled with more love and devotion than you ever thought possible. 

I'm so happy for both of my friends and that they get the blessing of each having a baby girl.  I'm so happy I get to witness their happiness and mooch off it getting in baby snuggles without having to go through labor and the midnight feedings!

365 - Day 127

1. 3 day weekend!!!

2.  I was able to read a story to Belle's class today to conclude her Star of the Week.  Great to see how excited she gets to have me there.

3.  Nothing as sweet as an unsolicited compliment from a child.  Truest form of flattery!

365 - Day 126

1.  A quiet evening to relax.

2. Finding the cake my girl wanted for her birthday party after calling numerous bakeries.

3.  Good music and the ability to sing at the top of my lungs in the car.  Totally set the mood for a good day.

365 - Day 125

1.  Waking up to E saying "Stace! Staaaace! Staaaaacy!  Let's go downstairs!  Hewooooo?!? Mommy?!?!?" He's such a funny little dude.

2.  Midday snuggles with my best little man.

3.  A game of Chutes and Ladders with my sweet girl.

365 - Day 124

1.  Time for me! Love getting my hair did!

2.  A video of my friend's son laughing hysterically.  Completely cracked me up!  So cute!

3.  The show "I Survived, Beyond and Back." Hubby and I have been enjoying watching it.

365 - Day 123

1.  Officer Young for giving me a warning, and only a fixit ticket when we both realized my license had expired.  Today could have been 1,000% worse if he was a jerk.  SO glad he was a nice guy and showed me mercy!

2.  Getting in and out of DMV no worse the wear.

3.  Belle had a great day at school sharing her Star of the Week poster/items.

365 - Day 122

1.  "Auntie Karina" came over for dinner tonight.  Loved catching up!  So thankful to have her in our lives!

2. The girl and I finished getting all of her Star of the Week items ready and packed.

3.  Just ordered the girl's costumes for her upcoming dance recitals.  Such a pain to navigate the confusing order site, glad it's done!

365 - Day 121

1.  Last night I told the kids, "Please, please, puhleaaaase sleep in tomorrow, okay?" They.Actually.Listened!  Both slept in until about 9:30 this morning (which is soooo much nicer than 6:30!).

2.  I was able to check off every item on an extremely long to-do list today.  Exhausted but feeling accomplished!

3.  Fire in the fireplace.  It's chilly outside!

365 - Day 120

1. It is finally the weekend.  After a very long, hard, exhausting week I get to spend time with and enjoy the people I love the most.

2.  An easy day.

3.  Watching a video of my girl and her friends dance.  They've come a long way!  So proud of them!

Bedtime with Bubby

Elias has been loving singing "Moon, Moon, Moon" and doing the hand motions (thanks Laurie Berkner Band!).  He insists on practicing a few times a day and singing it at least 3 times every night.  I was hoping to catch it on video last night.  He did a little, and was then distracted by his Toy Story books.  Please excuse my singing!

Raising an Independent Woman

When someone tells me I can't do something, it seriously irritates me.  I take it as a challenge.  I've never been one to follow the roles of what a woman/man should/shouldn't do just because of their gender.  Sure, there are some things I'd rather the hubby take care of, and some things I'd rather do.  But, I get my panties in a wad if I'm looked at as a weak girl who needs a man's help.  I suppose it's the bra burner in me. 

Last week I was playing one of the Super Mario games on our Wii.  I was stuck at a certain part, and my hubby asked, "Need me to do it for you?"  To which I snapped, "Hey buddy, I passed New Super Mario Bros Wii ALL BY MYSELF BEFORE YOU EVEN PASSED IT!  So NO, I DO NOT NEED YOU TO DO IT FOR ME! I'm an INDEPENDENT WOMAN!"  I may or may not have snapped my fingers and rolled my neck.  Poor guy meant no harm and I threw him some major sass, followed by hysterical laughter from both of us and Belle was there to witness the whole thing. 

For the last week being an "independent woman" has been a running joke and cause of laughter in our house.  Belle in fact told her dance teacher the story in the middle of dance class causing both her teacher and me to be in tears laughing.  As funny as it is, it's allowed me and Belle to have a lot of conversations about being an independent woman.  I'm proud that I'm raising my daughter to not let others set limits for her and to know that being a girl isn't a disability.  There is nothing she can't do if she sets her mind to it!  All my independent women, holla'!

365 - Day 119

1.  My Gram.  She's my last living grandparent, and the kids' only great-grandparent. 

2.  The girl and I stayed up waaaay too late last night doing homework last night, but tonight we had none to do!

3.  Taking a step forward towards forgiveness. 

365 - Day 118

1.  A day closer to the weekend.  I know it's a stretch, but I'm not feeling too great and the weekend is helping me push through this week.

2.  Laughing hysterically as Belle told her dance teacher a hilarious story during class and having her teacher and me both in tears.

3.  Having the funny video I posted yesterday of Elias lift my spirits today when I needed it.

It's Spicy!!

Elias has 2 addictions of late.  I'd like to share one of those with you.  He is addicted to Altoids.  Yes, Altoids.  You'd think those are too hot for him, right??  Well, you're right!  They are!  But he LOVES them.  He loves to sneak and find my purse and get the "spicy".  Saturday morning I found him on my bed with my purse indulging in the spicy.  I happened to have my camera handy to capture the moment.

365 - Day 117

1.  My wonderful MIL came over to watch the boy so I could get into work early today.  So thankful for her being willing to come help at the drop of a hat!

2.  Screams of "MommEEEEE" as my key turns in the door never get old. 

3.  Singing "Moon, moon, moon" with my munchkins before bed and seeing that they learned the words and hand motions all in 1 day.

Is it nap time or strip time?

Poor quality picture since I grabbed my cellphone to snap this.  This is what I found when I went to check to make sure Elias was taking a nap.

His response when seeing me? "What happen to da pants? What happen to da shirt?"  Um, yeah dude, WHAT HAPPENED?!?!! What a little rat!  I've said it once, and I'm sure I'll say it a million more times, good thing he's cute!!

365 - Day 116

1.  A day spent with my most favorite little man in the whole wide world.

2.  Nap time!  Well, we'll see if he naps, but it is nap time!

3.  Chicken Tortilla Soup.  Thanks for the recipe Sis!

365 - Day 115

1.  Yummy breakfast at the IL's house.

2.  Finding a bunch of warm shirts/sweaters on clearance!  Score!

3.  Not having to go to work tomorrow.

Goodbye 2010, Hello 2011

2010 was wonderful, yet challenging at times.  All in all it's been a year where I've tried to focus on the blessings in our lives and not the negative.  Yesterday was the true test of this.  To say it was a crappy day is probably putting it lightly.  It's a new day though, and I have a fresh perspective.  As awful as it is to be disappointed by people, I think seeing people's true colors can be empowering.  I saw a lot of colors yesterday.  A lot that upset me, disappointed me, disgusted me, and made me very sad.  I also saw ones that uplifted me, encouraged me, blessed me, and inspired me.  In the spirit of my goal of 2010 it seemed to be the final lesson.  I see those who truly matter are my family and dear friends who I know truly care.  I go into 2011 with the same goal in mind, be thankful.  Be thankful for all that I have and all of the wonderful people that surround me.  I will go into 2011 with my eyes opened, surrounding myself with those who have qualities that I wish to have.  To let that that doesn't matter slide to the wayside, and to add distance to those who show qualities I wish not have in myself.

So, thanks 2010!  Sometimes you sucked hard, but other times you were amazing!  All in all, me and mine not only survived you, but came out thriving.  2011, I look forward to a new year of blessings, challenges, and growing.

365 - Day 114

1.  Breakfast and time spent with friends we cherish.

2.  A new day.  Yesterday sucked.

3.  Date night with my hubby.  We've been needing some time together.

365 - Day 113

1.  Getting my computer up and running.

2.  Having good friends, and knowing who they are.

3.  Going home to those who matter the most.