tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-13702629523289962092023-11-16T07:12:52.678-05:00Team Collinsrunning after boys and weimsErinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06217762577330470854noreply@blogger.comBlogger154125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1370262952328996209.post-58877693400638249252014-06-04T13:00:00.002-04:002014-06-04T13:00:19.154-04:00Growing up so fast<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My boys! They are growing up so, so fast. Our W is going to Kindergarten in the fall. We had preschool graduation at a prayer service last week and he sang his heart out in their concert. I think he might have sung the loudest of all the kids and it was pretty awesome :) <br />
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His teachers this past year were incredible and he has learned so much. He is reading everything he sees and even got to go read to D's class this past spring. He was so proud (and so was I!). <br />
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D is such a little sweetheart and did so well in school this year, too. I have to remind myself that although W is one of the older kids in his year, D is one of the youngest since he seems to keep up with W and his friends like it's no big thing. We probably have 2 more years at PDS with him, but we'll see when he's ready for Kindergarten! He has really flourished the past 2 years in school. <br />
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Ads is quickly catching up to his brothers and it's hard to believe he's not 2 yet. He is the one I have to watch all. the. time. If it can happen, it will happen to him I think! He loves to play and dance and do whatever the big boys do. If he's going somewhere, he's running there with a big smile on his face!<br />
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This summer stretches ahead of us with nothing on the calendar really. We are going to add a session of camp, some VBS, and plenty of beach days, I know, but for now it's nice to just BE with them. I don't want to miss a thing and it is my hope to record a little of it all here for us to look back on one day!!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><i>all images property of teamcollins757.</i></span><br />
<br />Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06217762577330470854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1370262952328996209.post-40679417595545988372012-09-13T13:47:00.003-04:002012-09-13T13:47:29.897-04:00Thankful ThursdayI am especially thankful today! <br />
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While this pregnancy hasn't always been as easy on me as the other 2, I am so blessed and thankful for this healthy little boy and that he is growing so well and yes, kicking me <u>all the time</u>. We definitely have active little guys!!<br />
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I've found it's been easy to feel overwhelmed some days - thinking about having 3 young boys can be scary (and exciting!) when we don't have a good day of listening, or when I'm feeling particularly worn out. But I truly do have the sweetest, most loving sons a girl could ever want and so I'm just taking whatever time I can get to sit and play with them, read books or do puzzles together, or even just watch a favorite movie snuggling up on the couch. :)<br />
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After a particularly hard day yesterday, I was wrung out and sweet W went in the cabinet, got my favorite cup, filled it with ice water, and brought it to me. It was such a sweet, simple gesture, but it was just what I needed and makes me smile just thinking of it again.<br />
<br />I'm thankful for the cooler weather we're having in our area - it's lovely and I can even open the windows at night and in the mornings now!<br /><br />What are you thankful for today?Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06217762577330470854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1370262952328996209.post-70857753363586169992012-07-26T08:08:00.002-04:002012-07-26T08:08:36.306-04:00Cutest BoyThe other night, Wade and I were sitting on the couch before bedtime and he was asking about the baby. I told him that the baby could hear him, and we talked about how it's probably dark in my tummy. He likes to put his hand on my belly and feel the baby move, too. Then he told the baby a story, talking right to my tummy. So wish I had it on video, but it was the cutest, sweetest moment. He started with "once upon a time..."<br />
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We hope to have some family pics taken in the next couple of months...looking forward to it for so many reasons :)<br />
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<br />Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06217762577330470854noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1370262952328996209.post-22035903342728353312012-06-27T21:08:00.001-04:002012-09-13T14:03:50.027-04:00...Too...Some cute things I wanted to share and remember from the boys lately...<br />
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When I tell Drew "I love you" he says "Too." It's completely adorable. He is such a cuddle bug, and I just soak it all up!<br />
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Wade is also a little snuggler and wants to hold my hand all the time these days. He's been staying up later (even when we try to get him to bed on time!) and came out the other night when we were watching a movie (no idea what, something we came across) that had a scary scene and we changed it quickly, but he said he wanted to watch the scary movie. We told him we didn't want him to have a nightmare, and he replied "I want nightmares. I LOVE nightmares." Over and over as if he didn't think we really believed him. <br />
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Drew has started pretending to sneeze. Throughout this pregnancy, I have had a lot of problems with a stuffy nose that just won't go away and sneeze a LOT. We're talking 20 times in a row. Needless to say, he hears me sneeze all the time. First he started saying "'scuse" whenever someone would sneeze, then he just started this week pretending to sneeze. He and Wade go back and forth pretending to sneeze.<br />
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W has a new balance bike that he just loves. He tears around on it and loves to go on bike rides all around the neighborhood. We play red light, green light. He calls the shots and tells me when it's red and green. He's also been loving summer camp and especially this session since he is learning all kinds of new songs. This kid LOVES to sing and even sings all the lullabies with me when we're saying goodnight. <br />
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Finally, there's nothing sweeter than seeing my 2 boys hug each other. If Drew gets corrected for hitting or hurting Wade, his way of saying he's sorry is by giving a big kiss (sounds like MMMMMMMMMwahhhhh) and Wade is sweet about sharing with him. <br />
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So grateful for my 2 sweet, energetic, loving little boys!!!Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06217762577330470854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1370262952328996209.post-2012127129908640282012-06-25T13:56:00.002-04:002012-06-25T13:56:55.513-04:00I can explain...It's been a while (ha, what an understatement!), but I had news that I didn't want to share right away, and then just plain got out of the habit, and then wanted to make the public announcement in a creative way, so yeah, time just got away. But here we are and even though life has gotten completely hectic, I'm going to try and check in more often now that I'm putting this out in the open...<br />
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<br />Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06217762577330470854noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1370262952328996209.post-89156044150158126302012-03-09T16:33:00.000-05:002012-03-09T16:33:36.028-05:00You Are BeautifulYesterday when I headed out to lunch, I saw the words "You Are Beautiful" spray painted in red on a fence facing the road. Now, when I saw it I had 2 pretty simultaneous (and opposite) thoughts:<br />
<ol><li>Wow, what a fun message, and I bet that helped to brighten at least a few people's days today!</li>
<li>Man, if that was my fence, I'd be sooo mad!!</li>
</ol>I thought it was neat to see something other than the typical vandalism, but still don't know how I feel about it. Easier to appreciate the message when it's not your fence I suppose :) <br />
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What do you think?Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06217762577330470854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1370262952328996209.post-86667381960428065672012-03-08T09:35:00.000-05:002012-03-08T09:35:16.505-05:00A WogI saw the word WOG used to describe walking/jogging and loved it, and it was perfectly fitting for what I finally got to do today. Between colds, cold weather, and just plain being too tired, I haven't been running consistently and need to work my miles and pace back up. So today, I seized the opportunity to get out there for a wog. (BTW, seize is a new word W has learned...I'm thinking from a movie (Shrek? Tangled?) since he says "seize her" or "seize me." I love that he uses it in the right context, too :))<br />
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Anyway, it's a gorgeous day today and we've been outside all morning enjoying it so far. Playtime outside makes for a happy family (dogs included) and I am opening all the windows again to enjoy it to the fullest while I get to work. I can hear the boys over at the park with their nanny and it's too cute. It's supposed to get cooler tomorrow so I'm loving the weather while it lasts!!<br />
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Have a great day!!Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06217762577330470854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1370262952328996209.post-53274187971168657742012-02-22T13:02:00.000-05:002012-02-22T13:02:59.714-05:00LentSo today is the start of Lent. I hadn't decided on giving anything up. Usually I try to just adopt a new, improved outlook or habit to be a better or healthier person rather than viewing it as giving something up. I guess that defeats the whole purpose of the sacrifice, though, doesn't it?<br />
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Well, I decided that even though I'm late to the decision and have already cheated today...I'm going to give up chocolate. That's right. This one will truly be a sacrifice, people. I think I have chocolate in some form almost every day, and even put chocolate chips in my banana bread and zucchini bread. (we can't let ourselves get too healthy, can we?!)<br />
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We are continuing our no-meat diet here at home, too. It's going well. I'm learning more and more each week and am starting to find out what works for us and when it's just too much soy or beans too many days in a row, so finding a larger variety of protein sources is key! The boys are doing great with it, and honestly, I don't even miss the beef or poultry. <br />
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I do miss Chick-Fil-A sometimes, though...oh my goodness, that is some good stuff.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaC37tdi87dZ2vwxaKpYsVa-ZVVkYB7DO3JJlqzN3-Y_EWQ_66P7VGHc-61ZNnuopwyokvaUg4e3t1RK_b4HtX-Ql6I4s4O_riPjdpzi_TGiD0aqM3nBsbCiXHtt-j9if5l_RT8gkq1efg/s1600/iheart.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaC37tdi87dZ2vwxaKpYsVa-ZVVkYB7DO3JJlqzN3-Y_EWQ_66P7VGHc-61ZNnuopwyokvaUg4e3t1RK_b4HtX-Ql6I4s4O_riPjdpzi_TGiD0aqM3nBsbCiXHtt-j9if5l_RT8gkq1efg/s1600/iheart.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXlUP4r06mwDm7jXxUPMCbKSyg__1qzKETwi11Q-qRzlef2zd5_wYDPYLzmaKE53sEBNDCGZak7KC8RjVASGeYMPy9nLIBmZH89UZDLsNeHp5UaqEnsX2oT7iacEyAaGux-rVsRcSkd1G_/s1600/chickfila.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXlUP4r06mwDm7jXxUPMCbKSyg__1qzKETwi11Q-qRzlef2zd5_wYDPYLzmaKE53sEBNDCGZak7KC8RjVASGeYMPy9nLIBmZH89UZDLsNeHp5UaqEnsX2oT7iacEyAaGux-rVsRcSkd1G_/s1600/chickfila.jpg" /></a></div> Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06217762577330470854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1370262952328996209.post-52704339715986708042012-02-09T15:19:00.000-05:002012-02-09T15:19:07.270-05:00A Little is better than None...I've been a little discouraged lately with my general fitness level. Granted, I have not been devoting much time to exercise period, so it's not a big surprise, but still. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirnUg9d03Rix7gsRpM7V2jOjFYUtjrLDuUw5s8_KtzA8_r7a8KAh_XG4C1JURzcekYo9IhwiEBl04zwnAZCbnNsUv5iVeqbc5aKHFvjXkEBq6WcpSoHFAKOQ11cYLBA59N5SrGR1cL9X4l/s1600/running+turtle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="141" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirnUg9d03Rix7gsRpM7V2jOjFYUtjrLDuUw5s8_KtzA8_r7a8KAh_XG4C1JURzcekYo9IhwiEBl04zwnAZCbnNsUv5iVeqbc5aKHFvjXkEBq6WcpSoHFAKOQ11cYLBA59N5SrGR1cL9X4l/s200/running+turtle.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>I will admit this is largely driven by vanity at the moment...I mean, who wants a muffin top? But it's also about having an outlet for working out the stress and challenges of the day. <br />
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I headed out today for the first time a week for a jog (I do not kid myself these days that I truly run...) after battling a bad cold/sinus thing because I <i>needed</i> it. The dogs needed it, too. We are all better for it. It was tough for me, even though I only did 3 miles today. But then I need to give myself some credit I suppose - some is better than none, and 3 years ago, I couldn't even run 1 mile without stopping. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9eYDNTXlF_6Mda7rqu7GtAAC0nuImGwAnWM0_zPgihkseY9uHzYdUYhRLyyvMdPP4gEZ_JHjOmbe2FuWe3O757TtYJYypTDGvMJu5FTsvPrE7ZDc1cs_vNxXjpla1j0xBzmPjFIdZlftO/s1600/no-matter-how-slow.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9eYDNTXlF_6Mda7rqu7GtAAC0nuImGwAnWM0_zPgihkseY9uHzYdUYhRLyyvMdPP4gEZ_JHjOmbe2FuWe3O757TtYJYypTDGvMJu5FTsvPrE7ZDc1cs_vNxXjpla1j0xBzmPjFIdZlftO/s200/no-matter-how-slow.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>There are days where I need more than 3 miles/30 minutes...but if the day (and my body) only allows me those 30 minutes, I'll take 'em. I'm going to keep trying like crazy to get on a good schedule so I am sure to get in my "me" time on the road. <br />
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How do you get in your exercise or personal time? What helps you unwind most after a stressful day?Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06217762577330470854noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1370262952328996209.post-48142416877795533952012-02-08T10:51:00.001-05:002012-02-08T10:51:00.710-05:00Perfect Mom?<p>I saw this today and it is oh-so-true! W went to school one day wearing 2 different shoes, and I didn’t even notice till we got there…and just this morning, he asked for ice cream for breakfast (I was able to fend that request off till at least after lunch, phew!)</p> <p>Anyway, thank you for this, Carrie! You can see the article <a href="http://www.chicagonow.com/portrait-of-an-adoption/2012/02/top-ten-ways-i-was-a-perfect-mom-until-i-had-kids/">here</a> and her Facebook page <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Portrait-Of-An-Adoption/314851843355">here</a>.</p> <h4>Top Ten Ways I Was a Perfect Mom Until I Had Kids</h4> <p><strong>1. </strong><strong>I will not bribe my kids. They will behave because they have such great internal moral compasses, and complying will be what they want to do.</strong> <p><i>Reality: I will let you eat Hershey kisses for breakfast if you stay in your bed tonight. I will take you anywhere you want to go if you will just stay in your bed tonight. </i> <p><strong>2. I will maintain appropriate boundaries in the bathroom.</strong> <p><i>Reality: Most days, I use the bathroom with three little faces watching my every move. The upside? There is always someone nearby to run and get a new roll of toilet paper when I’m stranded.</i> <p><strong>3. </strong><strong>My kids will leave the house with their hair combed neatly and wearing clothes that match.</strong> <p><i>Reality: We hit a low last summer when Annie Rose insisted on wearing one snow boot and one flip flop to Target, happily limping her way through the aisles. An astonishing number of old ladies asked if I was aware that her shoes didn’t match. Yes, thank you for your concern, I replied.</i> <p><strong>4. </strong><strong>I will control my potty mouth in front of the kids.</strong> <p><i>Reality: Oh, shit the fire alarm is going off again. Damn it, the dinner is burning. Shit! Shit! Shit! My girls reply, at least it’s better than Christmas Eve, <a href="http://www.chicagonow.com/portrait-of-an-adoption/2011/12/a-choke-a-fire-a-burn-and-a-christmas-miracle/">when Daddy caught on fire</a>.</i> <p><strong>5. I will spend time taking care of myself even after I have kids. </strong> <p><i>Reality: A shower every three or four days, if I’m lucky. A brown Crayola marker is a lot faster and cheaper than getting my roots colored (but try to explain to a 4-yr-old why Mommy is allowed to scribble with markers in her hair). And my health club might as well apply for 501c3 status, since I give them a monthly donation. </i> <p><strong>6. I will model healthy conflict resolution skills, and I will be gracious when I am right.</strong> <p><i>Reality: I have been known to chant “I was right! You were wrong!” to my husband, as I sing and march around the kitchen, doing a victory dance.</i> <p><i><strong>7. </strong></i><strong>I will share, and thus my kids will be good sharers, too.</strong> <p><i>Reality: Get out of my makeup, girls! It's mine! Get out of my toiletries!<br></i> <p><strong>8. My kids will only eat wholesome, balanced meals with one reasonable dessert after dinner. </strong> <p><i>Reality: Fine, you may have a bowl of ice cream for “breakfast dessert.” It’s got calcium, right? And all the good milk fat that your growing brain needs! Here, have a second helping.</i> <p><strong>9. We will be on time for school, appointments, classes and playdates.</strong> <p><i>Reality: How is it that everyone is up three hours before school starts and we are the last ones to arrive? </i> <p><strong>10. My kids will see me as an empowered woman and a role model of how women can achieve success outside of the house.</strong> <p><i>Reality: If I got hit by a bus tomorrow, my tombstone would say, “Here lies Carrie. Now who will do the laundry?”</i></p> Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06217762577330470854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1370262952328996209.post-8436824873874335542012-02-08T10:42:00.001-05:002012-02-08T10:42:11.766-05:00Living Green and Being Healthier<p>After cleaning up a lot of pee yesterday, and then doing a load of cloth diapers, I got to thinking about how the cleaning routines have changed in our house since we moved in. It used to be all chemical-based, since that’s what was cheap and that’s what I knew. Then, we got 2 dogs and had 2 babies…</p> <p>While I wouldn’t call myself totally green, I do make an effort every day to recycle and look out for the planet we’ll be leaving to our children. It’s part of why I decided to cloth diaper baby #2 (and use cloth wipes! Which is actually soooo much easier than disposable wipes, at least at home). Basically, once I had a little baby to think about, and <em>especially</em> when he started laying and crawling on the floor, I was very aware of what I put on the floor to clean up after the big messy dogs. And then when Daisy started with her spay-related incontinence (joy) and was getting a big cyst/tumor on her shoulder (since removed, but unfortunately coming back), I started really looking into how we could go natural with the dog food and holistic remedies, too, rather than adding more chemicals and hormones into our routine.</p> <p>Sometimes, I find it to be overwhelming to think about “being green",” I’ll be honest. But the more I look into it, the more I realize what we are ALREADY doing to live greener every day. This is no small feat considering the mess and amount of daily waste our family of 2 kids and 2 big dogs can generate. Trust me when I tell you, it can be a lot. But it’s good to know that I’m doing a little something right even on those days where the messes just keep coming. And that keeps me inspired to keep working at it and greening up our life!</p> <p>So, on the bright side, here’s what we have going for our green lifestyle already. A lot of little things can really add up!!</p> <ul> <li>we rarely fill up our trash can each week – but our recycling bin is always full for pickup every 2 weeks. </li> <li>we installed a “doggie dooley” in the backyard when we first got the 2 dogs to compost the yard waste. we’re looking to get this up and running again now that I’ve done some more research on how to keep it going. (poor system just couldn’t keep up with our poopers, and we might actually need a second doggie septic system. um, TMI?)</li> <li>we use reusable cups and water bottles for us and the boys</li> <li>we make our own coffee each morning and use reusable travel mugs</li> <li>we plant and eat our own vegetables each summer – the garden expands each year with more plants!</li> <ul> <li>and we use our old coffee grounds to enrich the garden soil rather than chemical fertilizers. </li></ul> <li>online bill pay – paperless!</li> <li>all-natural cleaning supplies</li> <ul> <li>I buy several Method products for the kitchen and bath and like them a lot</li> <li>I use a lot of vinegar and water to clean and de-grease</li> <li>Tea tree oil and water solution to fight mildew in the bathrooms</li> <li><a href="http://rockingreensoap.com">ROCKIN’ GREEN</a> – the super awesome laundry detergent that <a href="http://teamcollins757.blogspot.com/2011/06/adventures-in-cloth-diaperingsome.html">you know I love</a> and that will truly take the stain out of anything AND that you can feel safe using around kids and dogs that are always on the floor. (seriously, if you haven’t already, go <a href="www.rockingreensoap.com">check them out</a>. I get their “52 weeks of clean” newsletter and have picked up some great tips!)</li></ul> <li>we eat very clean – lots of fresh veggies and fruits, limited (lately no) meat, very limited processed and packaged food. I buy organic whenever possible and am introducing lots of new flavors to our boys, including homemade things like hummus (which Bear adores). </li> <li>we keep our thermostat lower in the winter, higher in the summer</li> <li>I use reusable grocery bags at the store and reusable food storage containers at home</li> <li>I use washable rags to clean up messes rather than paper towels</li> <li>cloth diapers and wipes for Bear</li> <li>tea tree oil to deodorize the diaper pail</li> <li>we got sleeping bags from Goodwill for the dogs’ crates instead of big, expensive beds</li> <li>we buy an all-natural dog food from a local business</li> <li>walk or run the dogs up to the vet whenever I can for their appointments – love that they are located so close!</li> <li>both pups are “fixed” – I didn’t think of this as being green, but I guess it is!</li> <li>goes along with the doggie composter above, but we always pick up the poop, in our yard, and elsewhere.</li></ul> <p>What are some of your favorite tips for living greener? </p> <p>I hope you have a low-mess day <img style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none" class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" alt="Smile" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixuNQ6P-S9ty5VymM88C_mgtwMS8LQ1UJ9ZbYOIgdmwMg9qURncCznRlCTDHnJXZfkk1OMEFIN7ZNlAUmNLlXchYlaKndvNp24cj_FPYVu1IRXJjV8PybsvwCxvVmwunQlu_aBZNjClWLg//?imgmax=800"></p> Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06217762577330470854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1370262952328996209.post-54282640076129463492012-01-24T16:11:00.000-05:002012-01-24T16:11:40.288-05:00Oh hello there...Happy 2012 :) So far this year, I have NOT been blogging but I have been busy. I've been running, err jogging really (a little), traveling (more than usual!), and working on projects around the house. With the new year came an intense need for me to get things better organized, toss out the old <strike>junk</strike> stuff that is taking up valuable space in our ever shrinking (it seems) house, and prioritize our remodeling projects. <br />
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The boys are doing great...little Bear just had his 15 month checkup (at 16 months) and is doing GREAT. Our boys are growing right on track, but I swear the percentages get less and less each time we go. They are not teeny tiny, nor are they giants, but 18th-22nd percentiles? Really?? Our doctor's not concerned, so I'm fine with it. But I wonder about these boys that are in the 90th percentiles. They must be HUGE. <br />
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Yesterday was a real Monday (we should just leave it at that, trust me), so I opted for a margarita over a run. :) So, back on the road for me today. I squeezed in my run (jog??) at lunch today and was really loving the nice weather we're having today. I had to stop and take off my jacket and was more than comfortable in my capris and tank. It's January! A running tank top?! I'll take it. I was S-L-O-W today overall, but it was funny that it was a real ebb and flow all 4 miles today. I'd be strong for a half mile or mile, and then it would seem really hard to maintain my pace for a bit, then I'd break through again and feel strong. By the end, I was dragging though. I seriously think I was doing a major shuffle down our street looking like one of those people it hurts to watch jog because it looks so painful for them. Yep, that was definitely me on the last 100 yards before I cooled down! But, it wasn't just me; the dogs were dragging by mile 3 as well. We're not accustomed to this heat ;) Whoa 60 degrees! (I think it was probably closer to 70 in the sun, though)<br />
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In other news, we have decided to take a leap and radically alter our diets - we've gone vegetarian. Well, I guess pescetarian since we are eating fish still. Mostly all veg during the week, and last week we just had fish one night. We decided to give it a try mostly for health reasons. I was all for it since I've never been huge on eating meat anyway, but it's a learning experience to find new things to make for the family! One can only eat so many salads and bowls of vegetable soup. Thank goodness for fantastic sites like <a href="http://peasandthankyou.com/">Peas and Thank You</a> and <a href="http://www.dailygarnish.com/">Daily Garnish</a> that are inspiring me every single day!! Thank you for your delicious recipes and advice for making sure I feed my family right while we make this switch. I am learning so much from you both! :)<br />
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More soon - hopefully we'll have some fun home improvement things to show you over the next couple of months, too. I'll be sure to come back more often with updates on feeding my family vegetarian (and some of our favorite recipes!), running (will get some races on the calendar soon...!!), and the fun we have with our boys. Next post will have pictures, too, promise :)Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06217762577330470854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1370262952328996209.post-48689405153418491082011-12-14T16:25:00.001-05:002011-12-14T16:25:09.319-05:00Looks…so…funny!<p align="center">Definitely am going to need to see this!!</p> <p align="center"><a title="http://www.mediabistro.com/galleycat/what-to-expect-when-youre-expecting-trailer-released_b43739" href="http://www.mediabistro.com/galleycat/what-to-expect-when-youre-expecting-trailer-released_b43739">http://www.mediabistro.com/galleycat/what-to-expect-when-youre-expecting-trailer-released_b43739</a></p> <p align="center">By the way, I’m not doing so great with my running streak…it’s been hard to fit it in lately. But, I did run the dogs up to the vet today instead of driving, so that was a small little victory, right?? And I’ve been doing about every OTHER day. Still with the goal to get back to every day…I mean, a mile, that’s like 10 minutes or less, why is it so difficult?</p> Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06217762577330470854noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1370262952328996209.post-83153566697641648252011-12-07T16:35:00.001-05:002011-12-07T16:35:44.780-05:00Streaking…?<p align="center">So today, when several pieces of chocolate did not help my mood or anxiety (WHAT??! who am I?), I laced up my running shoes and headed out. I knew I wasn’t going to get anything at all done and was just going to wallow in my stress and get more spun up if I didn’t do SOMEthing. </p> <p align="center">Lo and behold, I felt better just 10 minutes into my run. Some days, it is almost the moment I step out and turn on the iPod that I feel relief, but days like today, I needed a little more time to shake it all out. I wasn’t sure how long or far I’d go when I started. I felt like I needed to run for about 2 days to clear all the crap outta my head…but I settled for about 4 miles at a decent (for me) pace. </p> <p align="center">As I was running, I decided I should jump in on <font color="#ff0000" size="3"><strong>Runners World’s Holiday Running Streak</strong></font>. Basically, it challenges us to get out and run at least a mile every day between now and New Year’s. It actually started on Thanksgiving, so I’m a little late to the party, but I can still get in a <strong><font color="#d16349">26-day streak</font></strong> since I started today! It’ll be good for me, and a mile is easy to do with just a couple loops around the neighborhood. My faithful running companions will be grateful, too. </p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR79OUg0Itg6Xpf2mev36VQyzbvQvTzJVwnTMThGp5t-EGh5yM9hGqKbHtE1OawpIREdP5iYde3bFNutJIqxt4FUgrh_BImz0ZUnfXmzI95jltKys_mvI5I9ZNkznk6lzHtoUoTlszFEsN/s1600-h/Doggies%252520Collage%252520BW%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Doggies Collage BW" border="0" alt="Doggies Collage BW" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxOPUhaloCu7EeSPASucS3KA4-NWq8enzdLeOxwuVnnZVti7Rr2wiDNwS-j901WiEMLraJTtpVQWDkYYTLoLqRlHe-k2GgmUwpDLp2woX8igz24s4yVyfmcWe9IdaejzM_yJzGF32bMxCx//?imgmax=800" width="244" height="93"></a></p> <p align="center">My midday runs are great since I don’t need to push the double jogging stroller, but my time is limited since I need to get back to work. My goal is to get to the place where I do a couple 4-6 mile runs during the week, 1 3-mile run to work on speed work, and then maybe a longer run on the weekend if I can fit it in. Then start training for a half marathon after the first of the year. My streaking is going to be a good start for that, huh??</p> <p align="center">Remind me when I forget…I NEED this time. It makes me a happier, more patient, and more productive human being <img style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none" class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" alt="Smile" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhf_WTzlko2S-vTl-wMcPgbILLuhAtHew7ESPvERvodLa7pNrTtYivv0iSM1Mi_UFC2O0fUCZRL5Axm8edrm67fULkosmUj99Vh8favrRL16NMNd_DxHVAessehs8wGyRQhH9M_p8sHYfFV//?imgmax=800"> Um… hello New Year’s Resolution for me this year!!</p> Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06217762577330470854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1370262952328996209.post-45191757069375735662011-12-07T16:20:00.001-05:002011-12-07T16:20:56.910-05:00W at Three…<p align="center">Oh little Dubs, you are so much fun and such a challenge at the same time! You are such a charmer and say the sweetest things to me (thank you to the hubs who teaches him this cuteness!) like:</p> <p align="center"><font color="#c0504d">“mommy, you a gorgeous pretty flower”</font></p> <p align="center"><font color="#4bacc6">“mommy, I lub you THIS MUCH!!”</font></p> <p align="center"><font color="#dd8484">“don’t leave, hold my hand” (when putting him to bed)</font></p> <p align="center"><font color="#9b00d3">“I want to be mommy’s bear cub (sounds like bear tub)” – which means he wants to snuggle up on the couch and watch TV with us (further postponing bedtime, the sly thing!)</font></p> <p align="center"><font color="#8fb08c">“I need to say sweet dreams daddy”</font></p> <p align="center"><font color="#f3a447">“oh! I got an idea! Hmmm…(with finger to chin)” Me: What’s your idea??” W: “I not know” (this is a favorite thing he says…I not know instead of I don’t know. I smile every time!)</font></p> <p align="center"><font color="#d16349">“I’m spooning mommy” – yes, he knows this!</font></p> <p align="center"><font color="#646b86">AND, our little one says his blessing before meals and prayers before bed! Sometimes with a little encouragement, but sometimes he says the whole thing all by himself and I love it so much. Most times he says, “keep you hands together….Dear God, thank you for….(usually what’s in front of him, or he says “bless mommy, daddy, wade, drew…)” Absolutely precious. </font></p> <p align="center"><font color="#000000">He is getting SO independent (“let ME do it”) and really likes to do things on his own and for himself, even if it might entail scaling the refrigerator to get the fruit snacks we stashed on top of it “out of reach.” True story. Just this week!</font></p> <p align="center"><font color="#000000">He loves school and talks about his friends more and more each week.</font></p> <p align="center"><font color="#000000">He is VERY excited to have </font><font color="#ff0000" size="5"><strong>SANTA </strong><font color="#000000" size="2">come this year and we are looking forward to a visit at the mall hopefully this weekend. </font></font></p> <p align="center"><font color="#000000" size="2">We are continuing to work on listening and not being too rough or mean to his little brother. Poor bear gets shoved down multiple times a day, sat on, squeezed, yelled at…but he has started to give it right back and is one tough 1-year-old. I won’t lie that some days I just don’t know what to do about it all. I try not to get discouraged by the bad behavior and am working to educate myself on some different approaches and strategies to respond to the behavior a little more effectively so we don’t become broken records, always correcting the. same. things.</font></p> <p align="center"><font color="#000000" size="2">We’ll get there…I’m encouraged by what I’ve been reading recently that it’s not an insurmountable behavioral situation we have on our hands and with some adjustments to our own interactions with W, I think we’ll be able to restore the peace and encourage better listening and cooperation skills. Keep your fingers crossed for us!!</font></p> Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06217762577330470854noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1370262952328996209.post-69637245298072836082011-11-09T13:14:00.001-05:002011-11-09T13:14:38.263-05:00The Halloween Post<p align="center"><font color="#f79646">FINALLY getting around to my Halloween post. We had a great time at the neighborhood parade! I think the pictures speak for themselves…love my little Woody and Buzz!!</font></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihox8nU-spnjQZj7dpjIt3WR9Q6GyTUBjkrr4-do9qrIqP2pxGPOkKwW41WsjSSn2NoC73p6fci7Jf_Cc7CzG9AjkkqE383GdJvYWG8JAZgay9hSnqtMU5BlQhhEpwR5K4FwSplfEhBtRg/s1600-h/Halloween2011-1%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Halloween2011-1" border="0" alt="Halloween2011-1" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiomIXQhHhrLVrRmQP3cpDEJoMa0Gu_grxLTLxYO6k5kq-UV4bev2EJCHwCwaI1MV9RnE0ZiLPH8-98Q1S1-Gpn1flGM2-yuWuXd57IchqxxhYV2ZLficXZzVtlIjSTRRiUjo7fvcaVrNEv//?imgmax=800" width="337" height="344"></a></p> <p align="center"></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjyhXWX9PVkeKII-Y6GxohDLOzH1pkPObo0LbtTiswb2A7Hq2dBCO-B56eFcHUP6afsFmF8nFnCXAhiw32MrZKYSZ_5jRgm4_ptjuBHAcoUTaOei0rOqVDtVBkwxhuS742Bo9JkvuCUOPA9/s1600-h/Halloween2011-2%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Halloween2011-2" border="0" alt="Halloween2011-2" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsvALJQP5R_ti-33CiaFg57lzQI96GF81no2tZyWTND8fQng0_M_ClbYUzGfF6PuOObbPVCe4wM1100iiiDsbwZ62b96DppME2L9DwuC6qJZp188VhsflEuq66irzycuGep-Aq3t4NvLNe//?imgmax=800" width="340" height="352"></a></p> Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06217762577330470854noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1370262952328996209.post-51898104998150826822011-11-03T22:26:00.001-04:002011-11-03T22:26:06.783-04:00Toddler, Preschooler, or Weimaraner?<p align="center"><font color="#8064a2">I think on an almost daily basis about how my kids and dogs have rather a lot in common…so thought this post would be fun. Try to guess what matches to what…</font></p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmrvCsmnNgAFBVApj8eiFRkuPxuETVZyHjHXeIERz8lFjERxhul7oLQrpU3Ct_akfVa2qcqmqAWLK1mOz82RwbMchko0dFpb9wzOHThSydHeZAwsKi9cjuqXvJfV7bM4xqiVQGDDg_RAw3/s1600-h/Bear%252520Collage%252520TV%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Bear Collage TV" border="0" alt="Bear Collage TV" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiC0bF-Lkj8Rcx4aF87jfFuHq8hFDCH-DsJ2UU83aL8Y6DPl3TOd6LH3GTPPmdRHD7_b4WNjE3juZOX8hi42gqhzUaSaM-8EC0DvwTe86ydQGvcu18AcEH9LqdtDt5_i3igYIHf3QRrdMjs//?imgmax=800" width="244" height="159"></a></p> <p align="center">Must be taken to the bathroom?</p> <p align="center">Whines when wanting something?</p> <p align="center">Cranky when hungry or tired?</p> <p align="center">Monster mess maker?</p> <p align="center">Sneaks into bed with us after we’re asleep?</p> <p align="center">Dislikes being alone?</p> <p align="center">Needs fresh air and a TON of exercise daily, or else?</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbSrg5yOD_z9J-yUQbI5IxdxZhwu8fVVhoc93sap98y5NhrYRuoaf1BqwWIIOOrbQemBRhreaK5z8fj43uhFBIHElde15DRaxfghmKdKsuFp2FE7oGyHymWR4eGm82YVFEzOf2qpGb-qmB/s1600-h/Doggies%252520Collage%252520BW%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Doggies Collage BW" border="0" alt="Doggies Collage BW" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjNwKp4XBSouXc5nUS-p5maqHEY40IGW2My3s4X5jKzwaGVzfdnon7vbTyfvwn2Lk_ha_iME8_IPIkpDuWNYodYa9Y9hwoFyBhPKSi7t9o0TeYGThtucGeMuLFArGqdY-gT2wjXbRuHDGbU//?imgmax=800" width="314" height="125"></a></p> <p align="center">Must be occupied or will get into trouble?</p> <p align="center">Loves to kick back on the couch and relax or watch TV?</p> <p align="center">Always curious about what mom and dad are doing?</p> <p align="center">Follows me into the bathroom, or anywhere else I go?</p> <p align="center">Dislikes taking medicine?</p> <p align="center">Likes to play in dirt and water?</p> <p align="center">Gets impatient when not getting all my undivided attention?</p> <p align="center">Sneaky when doing something that’s a definite (known) no-no?</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqzf4-i0gifqYPluNMyvx84QwXuBzRGrXk_xV85xD-IGI_gnZjjN_H-uE0iVAuZV4KOkbd5LG5OndRX3FIjzwxvAUs5aFc3_7ZXT2Epc0nOTzqv9gMzA22mngo2sexoyk3ODvC7yUYmyDL/s1600-h/W%252520collage%252520Oct2011%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="W collage Oct2011" border="0" alt="W collage Oct2011" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzBLI7tm8jrsPwNoWt3YMqdl-baIF-dlDv7pJzEj56QntZFk1sBtPEH4McACXs3Qk5VeYC48b7KZex0X4icN_4lVFGaNNeg0jmhBColBtHbnUEtlohu0A8lEKKFqOyLpR3gPDvpqgoPle1//?imgmax=800" width="298" height="82"></a></p> <p align="center"><font color="#8064a2">If you guessed all 3 for <strong>ALL OF THE ABOVE</strong>, you are so right <img style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none" class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" alt="Smile" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj0p3pwGCreYSUEfZqoIIz2dgO5k8xGDJHpxwsOlgy1A7jmHoPCCeT7stQnDBgaV7v-2ELaruoV-H8B4ZuQ8AvlJYQqDkIXmr44dGp73LKrLwhgLrFomlZxOtv4Uzj46AMCY429ppTbLIR//?imgmax=800"> There’s never a dull moment around here, but I wouldn’t have it any other way!!</font></p> <p align="center"><font color="#8064a2"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcyJgfk1VG4RgbEVjA40af4igCcKs-iBw0H5J2U8ZeXPDk3uZxDjkQfmYpOF4xQGO9mLfOJqz8E5MYaXhiQDmYaLYTUFS01AzS3c1gHrnjq-QLZ-jRHyZLJrw72xQ8ljhmvRj1gmj7a0N9/s1600-h/Daisy%252520and%252520Boys%252520Collage%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="Daisy and Boys Collage" border="0" alt="Daisy and Boys Collage" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUkvOeYJQSH6jFt2fliVZGVfWkA1TVXfDAl8erOGn01JpBfsZzz1ZruwXYsz3YZ10VapDB-zzNsJx6CvKThVOtKYnVP_-orucByjwSPGobQ1fKiA7ksfV579Yx6DKBeMt35SPgpoUvYb2H//?imgmax=800" width="382" height="105"></a></font></p> Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06217762577330470854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1370262952328996209.post-77994667397401241912011-10-31T12:00:00.001-04:002011-10-31T12:01:46.976-04:00My kids are so cute!<div align="center">
W had his first school pictures this year in preschool and I honestly wasn’t sure what to expect. We were able to go early in the morning, before school, to have a picture taken with little brother as well, so of course we did that, too. It was hectic, and Bear took his shoes and socks off and DID. NOT. want them back on, but check out the incredible proofs we got…<b>I melt</b>!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiGRyRY92fu1V-9cVsl6xOuhISEY-jOq2MHE8BtOeqyFSFylcRinnxrO9zUNeJslZnKiW0o5fNYeoqDAzU_45ODrMTBhEL3rbQZfDwgN9KB0BRiML4-vQ-0lCwH9HAXclC41Sg-x9TLTpj/s1600-h/Scan0001%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Scan0001" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOPxjVLgeOTblPV5FqxuMBetxrZVEu9TGAgc8OrWFO0p2CxaiQAlzVo2LpqU10asPpY9M9lTyWGHsoq6v4wh3pcnnSiYRtzYCyukxNMRjA8xzcL_J7Hx5dRG3RyQ5ZU-WrUml0CpqmGXzq//?imgmax=800" style="background-image: none; border-color: -moz-use-text-color; border-style: none; border-width: 0px; display: inline; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;" title="Scan0001" width="234" /></a></div>
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Sorry that the scan is all crooked, I was moving fast <img alt="Smile" class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg79T3c5Pk1wMpHqOOZGCPzXdGax71fGCgNI0kx-2etJxJZ4va4lYyc-wnyNsfH968iTz7syPtybJvUrVxMQBkC5t_qLtXDFkXu6QP3hR-l54SENoN6B3-N4WD8HvPYvCZ2YkjISAcFgARl//?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-right-style: none; border-top-style: none;" /></div>
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Another hectic day in our house, with lots to do, unfortunately no more time for talking (typing), but I just had to share these before sending the proofs back for our order today! </div>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06217762577330470854noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1370262952328996209.post-11938257169990570582011-10-31T08:50:00.003-04:002011-10-31T08:50:55.526-04:00Wicked good time :)<div style="text-align: center;">
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We had a great time! Didn't dress up this year (too much else going on and I didn't get it together!) but there were a TON of awesome costumes!! Blue Moon and chili in a bread bowl at the finish, delicious. This race is definitely one I want to do every year :) Looking forward to the next one! </div>
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Official time was 1:01..better than we thought initially, and I'm more than happy with it! Next 10K (on Thanksgiving day), I hope to finish under an hour. Time to work in a little speedwork!! </div>
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<b><span style="color: #b45f06;">Happy Halloween!!!</span></b></div>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06217762577330470854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1370262952328996209.post-12369088007523088932011-10-20T21:37:00.001-04:002011-10-24T11:48:59.758-04:00Being Mommy is HARD!<div align="center">
<span style="color: #004080;">Like those days where I have to take my kids for shots. I HATE that. Even though I know it’s for the best and will keep them safe from nasty sicknesses. I still feel so terrible knowing that I’m taking these sweet little innocent faces that are so trusting of me to the doctor knowing full well that they are going to get stuck. The looks in their eyes when it happens seriously breaks my heart.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #008040;">I feel kinda bad when I say no to cookies and ice cream for breakfast (or dinner, or lunch) when W asks in his polite voice and tells me I’m a gorgeous pretty flower (yes, he tells me that! Hubs taught him, is that super cute or what?!). But I know if I give in just ONE time, it’s all over and he’ll want cookies and ice cream for every meal! With both boys, I am trying to get them to eat real, healthy food at mealtimes rather than snack their appetites away like they’d prefer. Just as W is starting to maybe branch out a little, Bear is getting to be pickier…<i>sigh.</i> It’s just a phase…I know it now!</span></div>
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<span style="color: #d16349;">This one is a toughie – not giving in to a tantrum. Some days, when I’m especially tired, or preoccupied, or needing to get something done, it’s so hard to stop and make sure I don’t let the tantrum win. I mean, I WANT to give my boys everything, but we can’t let them think whining or throwing a fit means they get their way. That wouldn’t be doing them any favors at all, would it?? Giving W a timeout and having him sniffle at me: “Mommy, you’re being <u>so MEAN</u>” is a tough blow some days!</span> </div>
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<span style="color: #8064a2;">Crying it out nearly brought me to my knees. More so for Bear than W. I think the approach worked better overall for W. Bear didn’t start sleeping through the night till 9 months. And then I had to let him cry in the wee hours of the morning since I knew if I went in there, he just wanted me to hold him. He’d nurse for about a minute, then fall right back asleep, but of course would wake up and cry when I tried to put him down. Although I think he’s better about putting himself to sleep, even if he does cry for 30 seconds or so before snuggling in.</span> </div>
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<span style="color: #400040;">Working. The biggie. I am very, very blessed to work from home full time. I like my job and my coworkers very much. I am thankful to have this identity as a professional woman in addition to being MOMMY. I love that I can see my boys anytime during the day and can take W to and from preschool. But it’s hard, too, since I would really like to be able to do playgroups with my mommy friends, take the boys fun places during the day, go to the beach or on picnics. I think this is on my mind a bit more right now since Bear is especially clingy and affectionate with me lately. He <u>misses</u> me even when I’m just down the hall and literally runs to me when I come out of my office. But I just remind myself that I have a fantastic working situation, but that being a mommy to these 2 little angels and wife to my dear hubby is the most important job in the world. So every time I think (fret) about it, I recommit to being the best wife and mommy I can be and making sure they know how important they are to me every single day.</span> </div>
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<span style="color: #333333;">So, that said, I’m going to kiss my boys (all 3 of them!) and say a prayer of thanks for how blessed I am! Thanks for reading, and I hope you’ll share your own thoughts and feelings in the comments below, too!</span><br />
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<span style="color: #333333;"><a href="http://www.thingsicantsay.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="" border="0" src="http://i904.photobucket.com/albums/ac246/shellthings/pouryourheartout.jpg" /></a> </span></div>Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06217762577330470854noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1370262952328996209.post-89444880029128906212011-10-20T13:14:00.001-04:002011-10-20T13:14:30.843-04:00Just when I worry…<p align="center">That I’m not keeping up with the domestic side of things very well…like, say, washing the windows…something happens that makes me feel like I’m not letting things go quite as badly as I thought. I’m sitting here working and yes, there are some smudges on the windows here next to me, but apparently NOT ENOUGH smudges to keep a bird from <u>flying straight into the window </u>just now. Yes, now I’m most definitely awake!! Poor bird; I saw feathers fly, but it seems to have flown off even after the um, mis-fly?</p> Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06217762577330470854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1370262952328996209.post-49790879256925823292011-10-13T15:39:00.002-04:002011-10-13T15:39:37.951-04:00Another fun birthday shot<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia-ZugL1GDBlNweDej6pcDQ_CFdtXCZE35wn-ZYqs5cAeQZ4j7eyt0bPp2mNW89Iu_R7-NTKZUUsoCasok4uWIgDI9WuXcPAX9NOIOAyKZTgzi1CJU6OBV_tQ6dVfztUQ3KXGBXtEtbzDy/s1600/Drew+Cake+Sit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEia-ZugL1GDBlNweDej6pcDQ_CFdtXCZE35wn-ZYqs5cAeQZ4j7eyt0bPp2mNW89Iu_R7-NTKZUUsoCasok4uWIgDI9WuXcPAX9NOIOAyKZTgzi1CJU6OBV_tQ6dVfztUQ3KXGBXtEtbzDy/s320/Drew+Cake+Sit.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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Photo: RSutherland Photography</div>
<br />Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06217762577330470854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1370262952328996209.post-2302684696508279252011-10-13T15:36:00.001-04:002011-10-13T15:36:41.183-04:00Displaying Kids’ Artwork<p align="center">I’ve seen this done in lots of places and have been really wanting to create a display wall for W’s art now that he’s so into doing projects here at home and is bringing home cute things from school, too. Since we have pretty much converted our old dining area into a playroom for the boys’ toys, I figured that would be the ideal place to do it! </p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB3WyclmEwM-JaV05txs42pVmBivd9oKFAf5Tp1tZHFbXDXmxlVy6d3Rjp4X13559TV8rahATDbieHKGzs9BAkulUXN5M6hRyWyRWOXt3gI_3_H7t1qizArtBnK-cQa0PztdkTHEGiSqTo/s1600-h/art%252520wall%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="art wall" border="0" alt="art wall" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxz4WFsyJGDSXZ2frOIuShIaknz34GsxhCg_Hhr7u80kbQt7BVxsvQ3ZyOsbtLUX1wv-ydcspbPC0ekEB8H2Rtj15MCx-Nka320NKUjNIW53-9uebqtlM1LhkWFk4CkViqumLsmsiwTJXk//?imgmax=800" width="244" height="114"></a></p> <p align="center">I took the boys up to Lowe’s to get the supplies – first I looked for some cute drawer pulls that I could use as the anchors, but didn’t find anything I loved. So, I decided on some simple eye hooks and instead of silver picture wire, I used some clear line…(not sure what you’d call it, it’s not bendy like wire, and is much thicker than fishing line). To be honest, the clear line was a real pain to work with and tough to get tied around the eye hooks. But I love the end result. I used some blue plastic clothespins for now till I can find some clips that are more fun (or paint some plain ones fun colors maybe). I love how this fills up the wall and makes it so cheerful, and<font color="#ff0000" size="3"><strong> super love</strong></font> how proud W is to see his artwork on display in our house! </p> <p align="center">Gotta wrap up work for the day and go hang with some friends who just got to town, so I’ll leave you with this: I saw this cuteness happening last night and it made me smile. I grabbed the camera to capture it…</p> <p align="center"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgh5Iu_FzJUFu1oisgchcHG2pY774r_DMYsXvhcWpGI4YZyBuFKot7bvPO40pqixLHMt4X-bxWISXG5T9C9uAw3XgWwUyufGufCddoEhxjMjJotK-Sf7eosjPe3Pu9Xae8ETBqACN42t2Ly/s1600-h/caught%252520reading%25255B3%25255D.jpg"><img style="background-image: none; border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; display: inline; border-top: 0px; border-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px" title="caught reading" border="0" alt="caught reading" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7BHOsWlaQjdxdiBQn6953NU4yYlMs0S4_GS_w4Tmu9Ejizuz1LsojnpgacVYtnQsx-g3VBoYww4BxDCFnxydGKsUNpjobuiBaF9hyphenhyphennuArfUo2ReAzJitFKLIloeY7bXaBhPKKP2KSXu6C//?imgmax=800" width="244" height="164"></a></p> Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06217762577330470854noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1370262952328996209.post-4786536836011290882011-10-12T16:33:00.001-04:002011-10-12T16:33:26.328-04:00Ahhh-chooo!<p align="center"><font color="#646b86"><em>Hi again! Apologies in advance for the lack of pictures in this post. I haven’t taken any new ones so far this week (lazy, probably; busy, definitely!) and I apparently have things to say, pictures or not</em> <img style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none" class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" alt="Smile" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxxpVzS3hXDqDa6Nf1zOJ9nD7LVBhDLKX0YZMP9NJsjwxQZA6KRxw5F_m5bxKXPQhfnF_riYhX3fCCW8Ve4MpRSww7Y6rakAC8JNpQXfyc7xc7GADSbGBtjepXBSsIX-UXbwLO8DUUn3TD//?imgmax=800"></font></p> <p align="center"><font color="#c0504d">So, I <em>love</em> fall and am super excited for the cooler weather. BUT, with the change of seasons and general lack of sleep that has seemingly become my new norm, I’m afraid I’ve gotten a cold. BOO! Definitely going through the tissues and am thinking soup sounds just right for dinner tonight. </font></p> <p align="center"><font color="#8064a2">Anyway, that basically means my running has not been happening as planned. I am hoping after a good night’s sleep tonight and some more tea, I will be ready to knock out 3 miles tomorrow morning first thing. I need to be ready to run a 10K by the end of the month. I feel good with 4 miles right now, so totally doable. AND, I figure since I’ll be running for the first time in costume, it’s not meant to be a PR kinda race <img style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none" class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-winkingsmile" alt="Winking smile" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGkMIk694amLECg00qcaHlprX6b3zCcByzjCU-KPzIGXZH-2RXc8GWB07fum6CMp1nLOP7spyPsaJvsHZ8fQp8qaYABiw9qJIVUUxeqJSv_hDr39IBXyi7yvLfgtXG-RysUQLdtPHuBMwD//?imgmax=800"> At least not for this girl!</font></p> <p align="center"><font color="#4f81bd">Apart from the sniffles and sneezes and lack of running, things are going pretty well. W is still loving school, but is starting to challenge us some. Literally. Like he wants to make sure we really do mean what we say. I am hopeful that a little more one-on-one attention will help and am brainstorming craft ideas for him since he loves to do “projects.” I found a great website/blog for some ideas and signed up for their emails so I can get little reminders and new ideas. Go check out <a href="http://playathomemom3.blogspot.com/">Play At Home Mom</a> if you get a chance, it’s a great site!</font></p> <p align="center"><font color="#f79646">Hubby and I celebrated our 5-year anniversary last week! We went out to a fantastic dinner to celebrate and I was excited to get dressed up. We had some good wine, delicious seafood, and then went for a dessert martini at the “neighborhood bar.” (Literally, it’s in our neighborhood just about. We could bike or walk) It’s so hard to believe that it’s been 5 years already! A lot of fun stuff has happened in these last 5 years <img style="border-bottom-style: none; border-left-style: none; border-top-style: none; border-right-style: none" class="wlEmoticon wlEmoticon-smile" alt="Smile" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxxpVzS3hXDqDa6Nf1zOJ9nD7LVBhDLKX0YZMP9NJsjwxQZA6KRxw5F_m5bxKXPQhfnF_riYhX3fCCW8Ve4MpRSww7Y6rakAC8JNpQXfyc7xc7GADSbGBtjepXBSsIX-UXbwLO8DUUn3TD//?imgmax=800"> </font></p> <p align="center"><font color="#333333">We are getting excited for Halloween here at our house, too. W has decided that he’s going to be Woody, Bear will be Buzz, I will be Jessie, and Daddy will be Buzz. Actually, he said Bear would be Rex the dinosaur, but finding a Rex costume for a 1 year old isn’t happening. So, we decided he could be Buzz, too. Not sure if hubby and I will invest in the adult versions of these costumes since they are pretty pricey…I will be ordering the costumes ASAP and you’d better believe pictures will be up as soon as I get my boys into those cute outfits! </font></p> <p align="center"><font color="#333333">Have a great night, y’all!</font></p> Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06217762577330470854noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1370262952328996209.post-32566826242649035312011-10-06T12:50:00.004-04:002011-10-06T12:50:47.119-04:00Live Writer and My Fave...Rockin Green<div style="text-align: center;">
Couple of thoughts on something new to me and something that I can't get enough of...</div>
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I just started using Live Writer for my blog composing (although not using it now since this is a quickie...) and I am a really big fan of how easy it is. Especially for inserting pictures! I'm glad I've found it and am definitely going to continue to use it for most of my posts. I am still getting familiar, so I'm sure there's more I can do with it that I don't even know yet!</div>
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And...another plug for my favorite detergent ever...Rockin Green! I bought it initially for Bear's cloth diapers. Then I found other uses for it around the house. But when we washed a new Hokie tie dyed shirt we got for W and it bled on some of the other (dark) clothes, I decided to give "rocking a soak" a try. You know you're a mom/housewife/getting old when the fact that it ERASED the stains on all but 1 thing and took it mostly out of the last thing <b>is the thrill of the day</b>. </div>
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Oh yes, I was a happy girl!</div>
Erinhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06217762577330470854noreply@blogger.com0