I got this from SimpleMom.net. I haven't really given a lot of what's happened in the past year much thought so it will be interesting to try to answer these questions. Why don't you try them yourself?
Reflection Questions for 2008
1. What was the single best thing that happened this past year?
We bought our 1st house! It's such a pretty little 3BR/2BA house with a great backyard for the kids to run around in. I love where we live and look forward to all the wonderful memories we will make in our new home!
2. What was the single most challenging thing that happened?
Working 50+ hrs per week as an Event Coordinator for the Zoo (while taking care of the kids at the same time) for less money than what I expected.
3. What was an unexpected joy this past year?
The Mexican Riviera cruise my in-laws took us on in September!
4. What was an unexpected obstacle?
Having to pay for my dental implants ($5,000) at the last-minute due to an emergency.
5. Pick three words to describe 2008.
Fun, adventurous, and stressful.
6. Pick three words your spouse would use to describe your 2008 (don’t ask them; guess based on how you think your spouse sees you).
Stressed, confused, and happy.
7. Pick three words your spouse would use to describe their 2008 (again, without asking).
Fun, adventurous, and stressful.
8. What were the best books you read this year?
Crazy Love by Chan (the most recent one I read) was by far the most thought-provoking and life-changing book I've read in the past year. I honestly don't remember the others after reading that one.
9. With whom were your most valuable relationships?
Jeramy, my kids, my sisters, my inlaws, and my girls (Corinne, Ling, Sammie, the Jen(n)s, and Jess).
10. What was your biggest personal change from January to December of this past year?
I became a true stay-at-home mom in May. I was always working (ie, volunteering) on small projects on the side and focused on those things rather than just spending time with my kids.
11. In what way(s) did you grow emotionally?
I usually talk about everything else, but never about what really bothers ME. I have had enough breakdowns this year to realize that it's OK to cry, to let it out and not internalize everything.
12. In what way(s) did you grow spiritually?
I have become more spiritual in a sense that I am trying to build a more intimate relationship with God.
13. In what way(s) did you grow physically?
I gained 10 lbs last holiday season and weighed 162 lbs at the beginning of 2008, fasted for 5 days and lost quite a few lbs then gained a few back. But in August, I discovered the South Beach Diet and have managed to keep my weight around 140-145 lbs. It has been REALLY challenging, considering the cruise and all the traveling we've done in the last few months but I intend to stick with this lifestyle for good.
14. In what way(s) did you grow in your relationships with others?
I have lost some friends this year which was a really painful process. However, I have learned a valuable lesson...to never take things for granted. I've also given every person I've met the benefit of the doubt and assume that they are good from the get-go, but over time, I find that I am wrong. I need to listen to my instincts from the very beginning and try to build better relationships with people who are worth my time and effort. Fortunately, we have created our own little "Sex in the City" group and I have gotten closer with these girls this past year and am looking forward to becoming even better friends with them in 2009.
15. What was the most enjoyable area of managing your home?
Believe it or not, it's the kids/guest bathroom. I managed to keep that bathroom clean almost every day since we've moved in! I don't know if it was exactly "enjoyable" but I enjoyed the fact that it was the one room in the house that was clean the majority of the time.
16. What was your most challenging area of home management?
The kitchen. I hate washing dishes, cleaning the counters, throwing out the trash, etc. But I like cooking and eating, so go figure.
17. What was your single biggest time waster in your life this past year?
Working for the Zoo.
18. What was the best way you used your time this past year?
Traveled and spent a lot of time with family/friends! We went to LA in Feb for our 4th anniversary, enjoyed the concerts and festivities at the Fair in the summer, went to San Clemente in June for my brother's graduation, had family/friends come visit in August for our housewarming, went on the cruise with J's parents in Sept, had Lefse reunion in Phoenix & early Thanksgiving with my mom & bro in Laguna Niguel in November, and celebrated early Christmas at my sister Charmaine's new house (which she purchased a month after we bought ours) in San Diego in December.
19. What was biggest thing you learned this past year?
That friends come and go and that I'm old enough now to pick & choose who my friends are. We are ADULTS, so let's act like it. We're not in high school anymore!
20. Create a phrase or statement that describes 2008 for you.
Whoo-rah!
Wednesday, December 31, 2008
How to stay young as the years go by...
I received this in my email today. I think it's perfect to start out the New Year with...
Harvey Mackay's Column This Week
How to stay young as the years go by
Youth, it has been said, is wasted on the young. That would be a travesty if it were true. Fortunately, youth is not only a time of life; it's also a state of mind. I stopped counting after my 39th birthday, but I still consider myself young. And I intend to stay that way!
Having a youthful outlook and attitude is possible at any age, just as being an old fogey can start at a very young age. As I said, I choose youth!
Want to stay young at heart? Here are some ideas to help you:
*Keep only cheerful, positive friends. You can pick your friends, and I like to choose those who are positive and people who challenge me. They make me feel good. They don't drag me down or make me angry at the world. Negative people see the difficulty in every opportunity, while positive people see the opportunity in every difficulty.
*Keep learning. I think Henry Ford put it best when he said, "Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at 20 or 80. Anyone who keeps learning stays young. The greatest thing in life is to keep your mind young." I've always said that you should be in school all your life—never stop learning.
*Enjoy the simple things. Don't forget to take time to enjoy the things that you like to do—go for a walk or to the movies, read a good book, watch a favorite TV show, spend time with your family. You have to have a good balance in life.
*Laugh often. Starting your day with a good laugh, or at least a big smile, is as beneficial to your health as it is to your mood. Scientific studies at Northwestern University and Fordham University concluded that laughter benefits the heart, lungs, stomach and other organs. It relaxes tensions, changes attitude, and increases the body's natural painkillers. And it has no harmful side effects.
*Stay in shape. Exercise is good for your mind as well as your body. Studies show that healthy employees have decreased absenteeism, better performance and improved morale. I've always felt that a healthy workforce is a productive workforce. The human body is the only machine that wears out faster if it is not used.
*Cherish your health. There is nothing more important than your health. Stay in shape so you can improve your chance for good health. If you're healthy, do what you can to preserve it. It your health is unstable, improve it. If it is beyond what you can improve, get help.
*Be happy. You are responsible for your own happiness. We sometimes convince ourselves that life will be better after we get a better job, make more money, get married, have a baby, buy a bigger house and so on. Yet the accomplishment of any of those events may not make any difference at all. There is no magic secret to happiness. Happiness starts in your head.
*Don't stress out. You can't escape stress, but you can avoid creating unnecessary stress. You just need to find a stress reliever. Mine is sports—going to a sporting event, playing golf, swimming or jogging. If the stress just won't go away, then you have to make some changes in your life that might be more stressful in the short-term but healthier in the long run.
*Don't take guilt trips. Rather, take a trip to some location or maybe it's just the mall, but escape occasionally. I remember a story about the worry tree. At night an accountant would go home from work and place all his worries on a tree in his front yard. The next morning he would pick up those worries on his way to work, but surprisingly, they weren't as heavy the next day.
*Visualize yourself as youthful and with endless energy. I learned years ago that visualization is the most powerful means of attaining personal goals. Visionary people can achieve whatever they want by determining a plan to attain it and expecting positive results. It doesn't do the planning and it doesn't anticipate the obstacles. It gives you a real idea of what is possible, if only you want it bad enough. Vision is not so much what you think as how you think. If you can visualize it, you can make it happen.
Mackay's Moral: If you want to stay youthful, stay useful.
Harvey Mackay's Column This Week
How to stay young as the years go by
Youth, it has been said, is wasted on the young. That would be a travesty if it were true. Fortunately, youth is not only a time of life; it's also a state of mind. I stopped counting after my 39th birthday, but I still consider myself young. And I intend to stay that way!
Having a youthful outlook and attitude is possible at any age, just as being an old fogey can start at a very young age. As I said, I choose youth!
Want to stay young at heart? Here are some ideas to help you:
*Keep only cheerful, positive friends. You can pick your friends, and I like to choose those who are positive and people who challenge me. They make me feel good. They don't drag me down or make me angry at the world. Negative people see the difficulty in every opportunity, while positive people see the opportunity in every difficulty.
*Keep learning. I think Henry Ford put it best when he said, "Anyone who stops learning is old, whether at 20 or 80. Anyone who keeps learning stays young. The greatest thing in life is to keep your mind young." I've always said that you should be in school all your life—never stop learning.
*Enjoy the simple things. Don't forget to take time to enjoy the things that you like to do—go for a walk or to the movies, read a good book, watch a favorite TV show, spend time with your family. You have to have a good balance in life.
*Laugh often. Starting your day with a good laugh, or at least a big smile, is as beneficial to your health as it is to your mood. Scientific studies at Northwestern University and Fordham University concluded that laughter benefits the heart, lungs, stomach and other organs. It relaxes tensions, changes attitude, and increases the body's natural painkillers. And it has no harmful side effects.
*Stay in shape. Exercise is good for your mind as well as your body. Studies show that healthy employees have decreased absenteeism, better performance and improved morale. I've always felt that a healthy workforce is a productive workforce. The human body is the only machine that wears out faster if it is not used.
*Cherish your health. There is nothing more important than your health. Stay in shape so you can improve your chance for good health. If you're healthy, do what you can to preserve it. It your health is unstable, improve it. If it is beyond what you can improve, get help.
*Be happy. You are responsible for your own happiness. We sometimes convince ourselves that life will be better after we get a better job, make more money, get married, have a baby, buy a bigger house and so on. Yet the accomplishment of any of those events may not make any difference at all. There is no magic secret to happiness. Happiness starts in your head.
*Don't stress out. You can't escape stress, but you can avoid creating unnecessary stress. You just need to find a stress reliever. Mine is sports—going to a sporting event, playing golf, swimming or jogging. If the stress just won't go away, then you have to make some changes in your life that might be more stressful in the short-term but healthier in the long run.
*Don't take guilt trips. Rather, take a trip to some location or maybe it's just the mall, but escape occasionally. I remember a story about the worry tree. At night an accountant would go home from work and place all his worries on a tree in his front yard. The next morning he would pick up those worries on his way to work, but surprisingly, they weren't as heavy the next day.
*Visualize yourself as youthful and with endless energy. I learned years ago that visualization is the most powerful means of attaining personal goals. Visionary people can achieve whatever they want by determining a plan to attain it and expecting positive results. It doesn't do the planning and it doesn't anticipate the obstacles. It gives you a real idea of what is possible, if only you want it bad enough. Vision is not so much what you think as how you think. If you can visualize it, you can make it happen.
Mackay's Moral: If you want to stay youthful, stay useful.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Friday, December 12, 2008
2nd Annual Holiday Party
The holiday season means so much more when you're surrounded by friends and family. Jeramy and I started a tradition last year by hosting a Christmas party at our home for some of our closest friends and I hope that it continues for many more years to come. Having it in our new house makes it even more special. Thanks to all our friends who celebrated with us!
(I'm sad that I didn't take too many pics tonight. Oh well.)
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Snow!
Well kind of. We haven't taken the kids to the snow yet (we plan to soon). Every time I get a huge box filled with styrofoam, I let the kids play with it and they love it. I hate having to clean-up after, but it's so worth watching them break it all apart and throw it all up in the air. It's close to the real thing...without the cold, freezing sensation.
Tuesday, December 09, 2008
Prayer for Serenity
I feel like I needed this today (and these past few weeks really)...
God, grant me the serenity to
Accept the things I cannot change,
The courage to change the things I can,
And the wisdom to know the difference.
Living one day at a time,
Enjoying one moment at a time,
Accepting hardship as a pathway to peace;
Taking, as Jesus did, this sinful world as it is,
Not as I would have it;
Trusting that You will make all things right
If I surrender to your will;
So that I may be reasonably happy in this life
And supremely happy with You forever in the next.
AmenMonday, December 08, 2008
Re-evaluation...
I had to take a step back from blogging this past month because of a comment a friend made from one of my posts. She made me feel as if I didn't have a right to post my feelings online, for everyone to see. Although I can see her point (and point taken), I have to admit that it really threw me into a loop. I am a pretty open & emotional individual. But at the same time, I am also a pretty private person. I am the kind of person that needs to vent, to speak my feelings and opinions, and am pretty much a "tell it like it is" type of person. However, I do not intend anything in a malicious or hurtful manner. I don't even know why I feel the need to have to explain myself here but I just had the urge to do so. I don't want to feel guilty for posting something here that comes from my heart. I shouldn't have to feel guilty.
I subscribe to Today's Inspiration and the Quote of the Day says:
"Never apologize for showing feeling. When you do so, you apologize for truth."
– Benjamin Disraeli
Such perfect timing to receive that in my email today...
I subscribe to Today's Inspiration and the Quote of the Day says:
"Never apologize for showing feeling. When you do so, you apologize for truth."
– Benjamin Disraeli
Such perfect timing to receive that in my email today...
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Happy 18th Birthday Ian!
I can't believe my brother's now 18 years old. I remember the day he was born as if it was just yesterday. I was 13 years old and was very excited to finally have a little brother. Now he's graduated from HS, is (somewhat) in college and getting ready for the big bad world out there. Here's to you bro! Hope you have a great day!!
Tuesday, November 11, 2008
Wednesday, November 05, 2008
Saturday, November 01, 2008
The morning after...
I don't even know what to say right now. I honestly am baffled at the chain of events that have transpired just recently, I do not even know what the right words are to use at this moment. I am truly disappointed & saddened by friends who means so much more to me than I apparently do to them. I feel like I've been used as a scapegoat to overlook their own problems with each other. I feel really hurt that they thought I was that expendable. I guess it is all my fault. It's my fault for caring and for always trying to fix problems that really isn't my problem in the first place. I guess that's where I go wrong. People come to me with their problems and I try to help them fix them. Now I'm being accused of doing something they do themselves!
"The phrase Pot calling the kettle black is an idiom, used to accuse another speaker of hypocrisy, in that the speaker disparages the subject for a fault or negative behavior that could equally be applied to him or her"
I promise to not let this get me down. I can't wait to get away from here. Thank God we're traveling this week. I need to clear my head.
But alas, life does goes on...
"The phrase Pot calling the kettle black is an idiom, used to accuse another speaker of hypocrisy, in that the speaker disparages the subject for a fault or negative behavior that could equally be applied to him or her"
I promise to not let this get me down. I can't wait to get away from here. Thank God we're traveling this week. I need to clear my head.
But alas, life does goes on...
Friday, October 31, 2008
Happy Halloween!
Today was another busy day for the fam. It was non-stop from the time we got up at 8 am til the time we got home at 11:30 pm. I can't believe how well-behaved the kids were all day. I am so glad that they enjoyed this day as I was nearing exhaustion at the end of the night. Thank goodness for the Hixson's party. That was such a great party...great food, great company and ofcourse, the drinks. :)
Halloween is such a special day this year as it's the 1st time the kids are going trick or treating together! Connor dressed up as Darth Vader and Isabella as Princess Leia. Jeramy and I shopped at the very last minute to fix up some Jedi costumes. He found an old 60's bath robe from the thrift store which actually looked very Jedi-ish. My costume on the other hand looked very Padme-like to me but I was asked all night "What the hell are you?" so obviously others didn't see what I was seeing. Maybe a light sabre would have helped?
Anyway, we ended up carving our pumpkins right before heading out to go trick or treating. I usually have this much more organized but this month has been an exception. October has truly been the most stressful and most exhausting month for me this year. I carved my pumpkin while J carved Connor's pumpkin for him. Connor was so sweet that he carved Isabella's pumpkin for her. It's such a cute pumpkin too!
We were planning on heading over to Jen's neighborhood to join them trick-or-treating but we ended up just going around our own neighborhood. Our hood is off the shiznat! Seriously, I had no idea how cool our neighborhood was until now. 80% of the homes were decorated and our neighbors were all dressed up (except for our lovely friends across the street...yeah, you know who you are). It got dark super fast. I didn't realize how slow my kids were until going door to door. LOL. Connor was so scared of some of the homes (which he was rightfully so, as some of the houses were super duper scary!). Isabella, on the other hand, didn't really care about anything other than getting more candy. You go girl!
It was great meeting some of our neighbors. I wish they were as friendly on a regular day as they were tonight. Normally, it's very rare we even see them! But whatever, we had a lot of fun. Connor and Isabella really enjoyed themselves. As usual, I took pictures and videotaped as much as I could.
There were a TON of people in our neighborhood. It's such a new experience for us since we lived in what I consider "rural" part of A-town and we never had people knocking on our door (except for those persistent Mormons and Jehovah Witnesses...whom I welcomed with open arms, by the way). It's so nice to be able to decorate the front of the house and actually have someone other than my husband and kids see them.
I think we were home a mere 10 mins and Jeramy passed out ALL the candy within that time. Yes, it was that crazy! But he was also very generous as I told him WE HAVE TO GO! Luckily, we reached a good break in between crowds and were able to leave just in time.
The party was bangin'. The Hixsons definitely know how to throw a party. Food was yummy. We'll definitely have to get food from there from now on. It was great seeing so many people we normally don't see. It was also a weird night with friends. I think I had an epiphany tonight...life goes on.
Oh well. What matters is that J, the kids and I had a good time and I can honestly say that I am glad it is now over. Now I can start planning our mini-vacation to Phoenix and then pre-Thanksgiving with my fam down south then Thanksgiving here at the house! This month is a busy one for us. I am not looking forward to all the traveling. That's a lot of miles with kids in tow. First things first, I must sleep.
{pictures to follow}
Halloween is such a special day this year as it's the 1st time the kids are going trick or treating together! Connor dressed up as Darth Vader and Isabella as Princess Leia. Jeramy and I shopped at the very last minute to fix up some Jedi costumes. He found an old 60's bath robe from the thrift store which actually looked very Jedi-ish. My costume on the other hand looked very Padme-like to me but I was asked all night "What the hell are you?" so obviously others didn't see what I was seeing. Maybe a light sabre would have helped?
Anyway, we ended up carving our pumpkins right before heading out to go trick or treating. I usually have this much more organized but this month has been an exception. October has truly been the most stressful and most exhausting month for me this year. I carved my pumpkin while J carved Connor's pumpkin for him. Connor was so sweet that he carved Isabella's pumpkin for her. It's such a cute pumpkin too!
We were planning on heading over to Jen's neighborhood to join them trick-or-treating but we ended up just going around our own neighborhood. Our hood is off the shiznat! Seriously, I had no idea how cool our neighborhood was until now. 80% of the homes were decorated and our neighbors were all dressed up (except for our lovely friends across the street...yeah, you know who you are). It got dark super fast. I didn't realize how slow my kids were until going door to door. LOL. Connor was so scared of some of the homes (which he was rightfully so, as some of the houses were super duper scary!). Isabella, on the other hand, didn't really care about anything other than getting more candy. You go girl!
It was great meeting some of our neighbors. I wish they were as friendly on a regular day as they were tonight. Normally, it's very rare we even see them! But whatever, we had a lot of fun. Connor and Isabella really enjoyed themselves. As usual, I took pictures and videotaped as much as I could.
There were a TON of people in our neighborhood. It's such a new experience for us since we lived in what I consider "rural" part of A-town and we never had people knocking on our door (except for those persistent Mormons and Jehovah Witnesses...whom I welcomed with open arms, by the way). It's so nice to be able to decorate the front of the house and actually have someone other than my husband and kids see them.
I think we were home a mere 10 mins and Jeramy passed out ALL the candy within that time. Yes, it was that crazy! But he was also very generous as I told him WE HAVE TO GO! Luckily, we reached a good break in between crowds and were able to leave just in time.
The party was bangin'. The Hixsons definitely know how to throw a party. Food was yummy. We'll definitely have to get food from there from now on. It was great seeing so many people we normally don't see. It was also a weird night with friends. I think I had an epiphany tonight...life goes on.
Oh well. What matters is that J, the kids and I had a good time and I can honestly say that I am glad it is now over. Now I can start planning our mini-vacation to Phoenix and then pre-Thanksgiving with my fam down south then Thanksgiving here at the house! This month is a busy one for us. I am not looking forward to all the traveling. That's a lot of miles with kids in tow. First things first, I must sleep.
{pictures to follow}
Sunday, October 26, 2008
I love my kids...
They are just the most sacred things on this earth. I look at them and wonder how they got to be so smart and so darn cute. Can't help but think that they are just the most beautiful kids in the world. :) I'm not just saying that 'cause I'm their mommy either!
Saturday, October 25, 2008
More pumpkin farm fun!
I am on a mission to visit all the pumpkin farms this year. So far, we have visited two so I better get a move on huh?!
We went to Avila Barn on Friday and it felt like it was summer once again...it was HOT! It probably wasn't the smartest idea to have the fam wear black. Oops. We survived so, oh well. We invited Aunt Carol to come spend the day with us and it was really fun!
Pumpkins galore! I love fall, the changing of colors, the nice crisp air (if only this Indian Summer would end already), the opportunities to wear sweaters and coats...I LOVE COATS. I've got a gazillion of them. Can't wait for the (feeling of) fall to begin! I also can't wait go to our next field trip! I think we're gonna hit up Chesebrough Farm in Templeton next. Never been there and have heard great things about it. I'm excited!
Friday, October 24, 2008
November is the month of change...
Hubby and I have sent in our absentee ballots and we feel confident about our decisions. It's sad knowing that who we voted for will NEVER win, but it feels good knowing that we voted for someone we believed in and have similar values as we do. Too bad, so many people have to knock us down for the choice we have made. "You're just throwing away your vote!" is becoming a recurring theme amongst our social circles but you know what? If you vote for McCain, so are you my dear, so are you. If the system depended solely on popular votes then he might actually have a chance. But there's 270 electoral votes to go around and since CA is predominantly a Democratic state and is one of the states that has the highest # of electoral votes (55 electoral votes), Barack is already predicted to win. (More on the Electoral College system: http://www.kqed.org/w/youdecide/electoral_college/). BUT if it's anything like the 2004 election, he might only win by a narrow margin. Polls show that it's still a close race so we will just have to wait and see! I personally have nothing against either 2 of the main candidates, I think they both offer something the other does not. I just didn't feel comfortable filling in the circle next to either one of their names...
We walk around our neighborhood every day and am quite shocked at how many signs are posted in people's yards. I didn't realize that our neighborhood cared so much. So far, if the election was based on signage in this miniscule world we call "our block" then...McCain wins and YES on Prop 8 wins as well. I refuse to talk any more politics so I will stop right here, right now. I love debate but have no desire to argue with anyone other than my husband.
But to all those who are undecided, I urge you to RESEARCH RESEARCH RESEARCH before you vote. It really helps to know who and what you are voting for, especially the propositions that I totally believe are meant to confuse you. I hate to say it but don't vote if you have no idea what anything means. I hate knowing that there are a mass of people out there voting (or not voting) for a candidate just because of his race or what's on his resume or because they believe all the BS people tell them, or because one side of the proposition sounds better than the other (read further into the details of the prop and you'll be surprised that you may not agree with some of the details!). So the message here is learn the right info so you can vote. Now, more than ever, it's important for people to make their voices heard! If you don't vote, you don't have a right to complain!
On a side note, what do you think of this?
November is a very important month, not only because it's election time but because it will be the beginning of what is yet to come. Everything that is going on right now will continue for years...it's not gonna end just because of a new president or certain props passed. Remember, most of economy's problems now are not just the banks' and lenders' fault, it is OUR fault as well. Most people are in financial crisis for reaching & striving for the "American Dream" that was out of reach in the first place. I don't understand why the media focuses so much on banks failing...humans have failed dearly as well. I myself am not excluded from this true catastrophe, as I too wanted to "keep up with the Joneses".
Now 6 months after purchasing a home and living well beyond our means, hubby and I finally realized it's time to take the bull by the horns and STOP everything we've been doing. You see, we never budgeted. I mean, it's one of the things the pastor talked about with us during marriage counseling before sealing the deal, but it wasn't something we thought we needed to do. Surprise surprise, 4 1/2 years later, BAM! Reality check! Up until now, we were eating out 3-4 times a week, buying anything and everything we desired, going on vacations like we were rock stars, and spoiling the hell out of our kids and ourselves. I mean, it's not like we're that deep in debt but we are spending more than we should be!
So yes, November is the month of change. WE ARE ON A BUDGET. :( No more eating out, no more splendid shopping sprees, no more traveling just for fun (visiting family OK), no more going out & waving around the credit cards like rock stars, no more! We are going to focus on NEEDS not wants, paying the bills, keeping the family happy the cheapest way possible (thank goodness we have a huge backyard!) and just spending more quality time with friends & relatives. Because that's all that really matters...having a roof above our heads, food in our tummies, making enough money to survive and being surrounded by people we love.
That means more potlucks! more girls' night ins! renting books & videos from the library! exploring the hills of the central coast! walking anywhere and everywhere a stroller can go! lots more cuddly time with kids and hubby!
We have also vowed to be more involved in the community. Ideally, we would like to find something we can do with the kids. We want the kids to learn to value life and appreciate what God has given them. We've been involved with the Zoo, Loaves & Fishes, AIDS Network, UNICEF, and other organizations in the past so we are looking for something new this year. Any suggestions?
I am really looking forward to November. Here's to living the simple life! :)
*Note to self: this post is to encourage accountability*
We walk around our neighborhood every day and am quite shocked at how many signs are posted in people's yards. I didn't realize that our neighborhood cared so much. So far, if the election was based on signage in this miniscule world we call "our block" then...McCain wins and YES on Prop 8 wins as well. I refuse to talk any more politics so I will stop right here, right now. I love debate but have no desire to argue with anyone other than my husband.
But to all those who are undecided, I urge you to RESEARCH RESEARCH RESEARCH before you vote. It really helps to know who and what you are voting for, especially the propositions that I totally believe are meant to confuse you. I hate to say it but don't vote if you have no idea what anything means. I hate knowing that there are a mass of people out there voting (or not voting) for a candidate just because of his race or what's on his resume or because they believe all the BS people tell them, or because one side of the proposition sounds better than the other (read further into the details of the prop and you'll be surprised that you may not agree with some of the details!). So the message here is learn the right info so you can vote. Now, more than ever, it's important for people to make their voices heard! If you don't vote, you don't have a right to complain!
On a side note, what do you think of this?
November is a very important month, not only because it's election time but because it will be the beginning of what is yet to come. Everything that is going on right now will continue for years...it's not gonna end just because of a new president or certain props passed. Remember, most of economy's problems now are not just the banks' and lenders' fault, it is OUR fault as well. Most people are in financial crisis for reaching & striving for the "American Dream" that was out of reach in the first place. I don't understand why the media focuses so much on banks failing...humans have failed dearly as well. I myself am not excluded from this true catastrophe, as I too wanted to "keep up with the Joneses".
Now 6 months after purchasing a home and living well beyond our means, hubby and I finally realized it's time to take the bull by the horns and STOP everything we've been doing. You see, we never budgeted. I mean, it's one of the things the pastor talked about with us during marriage counseling before sealing the deal, but it wasn't something we thought we needed to do. Surprise surprise, 4 1/2 years later, BAM! Reality check! Up until now, we were eating out 3-4 times a week, buying anything and everything we desired, going on vacations like we were rock stars, and spoiling the hell out of our kids and ourselves. I mean, it's not like we're that deep in debt but we are spending more than we should be!
So yes, November is the month of change. WE ARE ON A BUDGET. :( No more eating out, no more splendid shopping sprees, no more traveling just for fun (visiting family OK), no more going out & waving around the credit cards like rock stars, no more! We are going to focus on NEEDS not wants, paying the bills, keeping the family happy the cheapest way possible (thank goodness we have a huge backyard!) and just spending more quality time with friends & relatives. Because that's all that really matters...having a roof above our heads, food in our tummies, making enough money to survive and being surrounded by people we love.
That means more potlucks! more girls' night ins! renting books & videos from the library! exploring the hills of the central coast! walking anywhere and everywhere a stroller can go! lots more cuddly time with kids and hubby!
We have also vowed to be more involved in the community. Ideally, we would like to find something we can do with the kids. We want the kids to learn to value life and appreciate what God has given them. We've been involved with the Zoo, Loaves & Fishes, AIDS Network, UNICEF, and other organizations in the past so we are looking for something new this year. Any suggestions?
I am really looking forward to November. Here's to living the simple life! :)
*Note to self: this post is to encourage accountability*
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Sleep is overrated...
I've pretty much been an insomniac my whole life. I think it was a good way of God to train me for motherhood. I go to bed around 2-3 am every day and wake up around 7 am when my son starts pulling my arm. Getting up is a whole 'nother story though. When J's home, he's kind enough to let me sleep in (which I absolutely and truly appreciate!). He started letting me sleep in just a few weeks ago when I got sick after coming home from our cruise. I should get sick more often! LOL.I am so glad that J has been letting me sleep in a few days a week 'cause I seriously don't know how bad life would be for the family right now if he hadn't. I have been stressing out about so many things (certain people in my life, the election, economy, money, etc) that I just can't relax! I lay awake every night praying to God just to help me be semi-functional the next day, to help me be a better mom and for world peace (amongst other things ofcourse). For some reason, being a "good" mom has been on the back of my mind a lot lately and it has been causing me a great deal of stress. We'll just save that thought for another sleepless night...
I get about 4-5 hours of sleep each night and this has been going on for many years. It's amazing how well I can function on just that alone (WITHOUT coffee, mind you). But on some days, I just don't function well at all and just veg on the couch & let the kids run amuck. I think I'm just getting old. Getting old sucks! Not only is it taking longer to lose the last 10 lbs, but I actually feel like I need sleep. So weird, thought I'd never ever say that. Being a good mom really depends on how much beauty sleep I get. It's just even more amazing that when these kids were little babies, I functioned on less than 2 hrs of sleep every day and somehow got out to go to playgroups and exposed myself to society (even when I didn't take a shower for 3 days...yikes!). It's quite fascinating what love for your children can make you do!
Did you know that studies show that people should get 8-9 hrs of sleep per night to be able to lead healthy lives? Are you kidding? 8 hrs of sleep?! WHAT is that? I remember getting 8 hrs of sleep once upon a time when I would get hungover...and man, those days are loooong gone. Well, I do have those occasional hangovers that occur oh so rarely. The ones that you wake up with and say "Gosh, I do not miss this feeling!" But still, I don't get 8 hrs of sleep on those kind of nights. The luxury of "normal" (single & kid-less) people!!
How I wish I could be part of those insomniac studies. I really want to know how badly I need sleep. I mean, my brain says I need it, my body says I need it and my conscience says I desperately should have it...but how come I can't get it? I mean, is drinking a glass of warm milk really the solution? Meditation? Sleeping pills? Isn't there some kind of device that can stop you from thinking period so that I can get some much needed Zzz's? Oh wait, that's called a TV! (and no, I refuse to believe that is the cure!)
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Pumpkin Farm fun...
A few days ago, the kids and I went on a field trip to Colleen's Pumpkin Farm out in Santa Margarita. We have been going every year since Connor was born and it brings back a lot of memories for us.I was browsing through our photos and OMG, I can't believe how much the kids have grown in a year. It's amazing how different they are, yet the same...
This year, the kids seemed to have a lot of fun. I played around with some of the pictures and made them look "better" (my tired eyes can be very deceived however) as I had a very difficult time trying to get a shot of these very rambunctious children of mine.
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
Friends...
So I think this is why I've been feeling a little down lately. I've been feeling really lonely lately and I can't help but wonder if I really even have any close friends? I mean, I know a lot of people & vice versa. But I just feel like everyone's just doing their own thing and involved in their own lives. While here I am, always feeling like the only one making the effort to get together & keeping in touch with them. How does that work? Isn't that a bit one sided? But then again...
I know I haven't been the greatest friend, esp since I've become a Mom. People call me and it takes me days (maybe even weeks) to call them back. Some send me emails and it takes me just as long, if not longer, to respond. I am pretty much a shitty friend. Text me though and you get a reply real quick! (don't know why that is)
I remember a time back in college when 2 good friends of mine approached me (mind you, they were pretty drunk) and pretty much yelled at me for being late AGAIN. They said that I was super selfish & how inconsiderate I was and how I don't think other people's time is as important as mine. I don't know why that has been in my mind a lot lately. I think because subconsciously, I know this is true. I am selfish and I really need to work on that. How do you undo years of selfishness?
When it comes to my kids and my husband, I don't think I'm selfish at all. But when it comes to everything else (like friendships), then I guess people would consider me pretty selfish. In my defense, however, I lived a life when I put everyone else above me first. I got to a point when I decided NO MORE. I think that was back in 2001 when I decided to transfer to Cal Poly to finish out my degree. I left my family, my friends, all the people I had ever known...to come to a place where I can have a fresh start. That was probably the most difficult decision I have ever made and probably the best one at that.
I guess my point is that I just want to strive to be a better person...a better friend especially. Now that I'm finding old friends on Facebook & Myspace, it's made me realize how sad I am that I let those friendships go, how I didn't try hard enough to keep them. I had a bestfriend from 5th grade on up whom I loved dearly and we've reconnected since HS and it just feels so good having her back in my life. I am longing to find a connection with another girl like I did with her. My bestest friends now are both men (my hubby and my buddy Paul) but it's just not the same. I can't talk my girlie talk without them always trying to find a solution to my problems (typical guys). I have my sisters too and they are freaking awesome but they're not here and I wish so badly that they lived closer. I need someone who can just sit there and listen to me vent without having to criticize or offer any answers. Then make me brownies to cheer me up. LOL. I want someone who I can call up and just be able to go and do whatever and do everything with. I hate having some of my closest friends live so far away. I'm just missing them right now. :(
(my bestfriend of 15 years, Paul)
(my good friend Jennster --- I was 8 mos preggers with Isabella!)
(my attached-at-the-hip drinking buddy Laura)
(my rock star friend Carla)
(my dearest Dawnee)
Friendships just aren't the same...
Thought I should add that I do currently have some great girlfriends. I am just not feeling all that close to them right now. :( I guess that's my cue. I should really work on fixing that!
I know I haven't been the greatest friend, esp since I've become a Mom. People call me and it takes me days (maybe even weeks) to call them back. Some send me emails and it takes me just as long, if not longer, to respond. I am pretty much a shitty friend. Text me though and you get a reply real quick! (don't know why that is)
I remember a time back in college when 2 good friends of mine approached me (mind you, they were pretty drunk) and pretty much yelled at me for being late AGAIN. They said that I was super selfish & how inconsiderate I was and how I don't think other people's time is as important as mine. I don't know why that has been in my mind a lot lately. I think because subconsciously, I know this is true. I am selfish and I really need to work on that. How do you undo years of selfishness?
When it comes to my kids and my husband, I don't think I'm selfish at all. But when it comes to everything else (like friendships), then I guess people would consider me pretty selfish. In my defense, however, I lived a life when I put everyone else above me first. I got to a point when I decided NO MORE. I think that was back in 2001 when I decided to transfer to Cal Poly to finish out my degree. I left my family, my friends, all the people I had ever known...to come to a place where I can have a fresh start. That was probably the most difficult decision I have ever made and probably the best one at that.
I guess my point is that I just want to strive to be a better person...a better friend especially. Now that I'm finding old friends on Facebook & Myspace, it's made me realize how sad I am that I let those friendships go, how I didn't try hard enough to keep them. I had a bestfriend from 5th grade on up whom I loved dearly and we've reconnected since HS and it just feels so good having her back in my life. I am longing to find a connection with another girl like I did with her. My bestest friends now are both men (my hubby and my buddy Paul) but it's just not the same. I can't talk my girlie talk without them always trying to find a solution to my problems (typical guys). I have my sisters too and they are freaking awesome but they're not here and I wish so badly that they lived closer. I need someone who can just sit there and listen to me vent without having to criticize or offer any answers. Then make me brownies to cheer me up. LOL. I want someone who I can call up and just be able to go and do whatever and do everything with. I hate having some of my closest friends live so far away. I'm just missing them right now. :(
(my bestfriend of 15 years, Paul)
(my good friend Jennster --- I was 8 mos preggers with Isabella!)
(my attached-at-the-hip drinking buddy Laura)
(my rock star friend Carla)
(my dearest Dawnee)Thought I should add that I do currently have some great girlfriends. I am just not feeling all that close to them right now. :( I guess that's my cue. I should really work on fixing that!
Monday, October 20, 2008
Just another Manic Monday...
Actually I lied, it really wasn't all that manic today. We didn't do much today other than go to our Parent Participation class, which we hadn't gone to in like 3 weeks. Oh yeah, and we got to go to the Dollar Store. Woo hoo.
It's kinda crazy how uneventful my days have been since I stepped down as Event Coordinator for the Zoo back in May. I mean, let me back track and apologize for saying "uneventful" because every day with the kids & the fam is wonderful. But uneventful as in...I really don't have much on my plate. I guess for most people that's a really good thing but for me, it just doesn't make for a feeling of accomplishment. I'm bored.
These past few weeks, I have had a lot of time to think about what I wanna do when the kids are both in school next year (yikes, Connor's gonna be in kindergarten!). I have been playing around with a bunch of ideas and I normally would be jumping for joy by now with some kind of a clue, but to no avail. *sigh*
Nursing school? Nah, I hate hospitals and honestly, can't bear the thought of stepping into a hospital to WORK. Psych tech? Nah, I can't work with heavily sedated criminals. Office manager? Not enough money to make it worth my while. Go back to school to specialize in something (that Psych degree ain't gonna get me far in the working world!)? Maybe, just what!
I've been looking over the classifieds lately and sheez, talk about some lame ass jobs. There is no way I can work the kind of jobs that are posted right now. Waiting tables, answering phones, wiping butts...not my cup of tea.
I guess I've hit a point in my life (AGAIN) when I'm itching to do something. The kids are fun to hang out with all day but I am getting bored out of my mind. I like learning, adult interaction, mental stimulation, and NOT yelling all damn day long. It amazes me that I've lasted this long as a SAHM. Like really, I wasn't planning on staying as a SAHM for 4 years and here I am... complaining and people would kill to be in my position right now. Ugh, I hate feeling like that. I'm so blessed and I feel like such a b**** for even talking like this.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Update on the fam...
Speaking of updates, I guess I should talk about the fam. The fam is great and life is good for the most part. J is still with the Sheriff's Dept and loves his job (on most days) and I'm glad because I wouldn't wanna have to go look for a job right now. The economy sucks and I can't see myself working at any of the jobs posted on the Classifieds. Job-hunting would suck right now!
J and I just went on the most amazing cruise ever with his parents. It was sooooooooooo much fun. People make fun of us 'cause we went with his 'rents (they're just jealous) but they really are the best people and so cool to hang out with. The cruise was such a blast! I can't wait to go on our next one.
The kids stayed with some family and their Godmother while we were on vacation. From what they tell us (wonder if they were lying?), the kids were really good. Our kids can get pretty crazy sometimes so I was really worried but now that I hear they were "good"...we'll start planning our next vacation then. LOL.
Connor is now 4 years old and is a crazy wild banshee. He is a really intelligent kid but man, he does not run out of energy. He's like Einstein on crack. He has a very expansive vocabulary for a 4-year old and is freaking awesome at putting things together (and tearing them apart). He's very creative and loves to "try" to be independent. Key word: TRY. But he's pretty much a mama's boy and yes, it's my fault. I've spoiled him and I'm surely paying for it now.
Isabella, on the other hand, is one funny character. She simply adores her brother. She calls him "BROTHER" not by name. He follows him everywhere, does everything he does (if not better...her motor skills are freaking amazing) and loves to beat up on him. Some days he can take it but on most he just freaks out and tells on her. I just wish he would grow a pair and punch her back (ok, just kidding). But she absolutely loves her brother. She is definitely starting to act like the typical 2 year old and oh dear, does she play the part well. She screams her head off anytime she's frustrated or annoyed and is such a tomboy, climbing everything she can swing her legs over. But she is quite a mysterious girl. She's not quiet in any way but it's so hard to tell what her personality is really like because she mirrors so much of what Connor says and does. I am quite interested in seeing her grow into her own. But for now, I am just enjoying my time with my baby girl.
They are both the light(s) of my life. As a stay at home mom, I get to enjoy all the moments (they're not all enjoyable) with them and consider myself truly blessed being able to do so. Some days I wish I was working outside the home 'cause OMG, they f'ing drive me insane sometimes. But I love 'em to death and am glad I get to spend so much time with them. Plus, J is off work 3-4 days a week so we get a lot of good family quality time together. That makes me happy...
J and I just went on the most amazing cruise ever with his parents. It was sooooooooooo much fun. People make fun of us 'cause we went with his 'rents (they're just jealous) but they really are the best people and so cool to hang out with. The cruise was such a blast! I can't wait to go on our next one.
The kids stayed with some family and their Godmother while we were on vacation. From what they tell us (wonder if they were lying?), the kids were really good. Our kids can get pretty crazy sometimes so I was really worried but now that I hear they were "good"...we'll start planning our next vacation then. LOL.
Connor is now 4 years old and is a crazy wild banshee. He is a really intelligent kid but man, he does not run out of energy. He's like Einstein on crack. He has a very expansive vocabulary for a 4-year old and is freaking awesome at putting things together (and tearing them apart). He's very creative and loves to "try" to be independent. Key word: TRY. But he's pretty much a mama's boy and yes, it's my fault. I've spoiled him and I'm surely paying for it now.
Isabella, on the other hand, is one funny character. She simply adores her brother. She calls him "BROTHER" not by name. He follows him everywhere, does everything he does (if not better...her motor skills are freaking amazing) and loves to beat up on him. Some days he can take it but on most he just freaks out and tells on her. I just wish he would grow a pair and punch her back (ok, just kidding). But she absolutely loves her brother. She is definitely starting to act like the typical 2 year old and oh dear, does she play the part well. She screams her head off anytime she's frustrated or annoyed and is such a tomboy, climbing everything she can swing her legs over. But she is quite a mysterious girl. She's not quiet in any way but it's so hard to tell what her personality is really like because she mirrors so much of what Connor says and does. I am quite interested in seeing her grow into her own. But for now, I am just enjoying my time with my baby girl.
They are both the light(s) of my life. As a stay at home mom, I get to enjoy all the moments (they're not all enjoyable) with them and consider myself truly blessed being able to do so. Some days I wish I was working outside the home 'cause OMG, they f'ing drive me insane sometimes. But I love 'em to death and am glad I get to spend so much time with them. Plus, J is off work 3-4 days a week so we get a lot of good family quality time together. That makes me happy...
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