tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-26413665341785996702024-03-05T19:37:35.630-08:00My LifeUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger113125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2641366534178599670.post-79983628077417686802013-07-21T08:05:00.003-07:002013-07-21T08:05:49.957-07:00Friday's StormWe had a storm pass by here on Friday. It was hot and sunny all day. I left the living room and by the time I got to the kitchen, the sky went dark. I went back into the front room and instantly this is what I saw<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwCFFMGigfw5gmN0q07WuAisC5TBVBMZ2Vw8rI8Zey5o0YxkAzU1KfstoADGhZ_xlTyjfYx1H2zOYFxlXHYEw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
Then the hail started<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyRxWh77nMsQ0daYmZRpnsyj3iso8PCNR6YwUhstsIgeLZoG8ePzQcF1nFcz_sGDoMiS70ujjeELAtRMnIJZQ' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
Then just as sudden as it all hit, it was sunny again<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dw3MjcSRAu1ttPGFLZJ2c9eiyaFd4E6HdUs4rJ4WzAp7_4QvugsfqrS2sHoOA9sgqwTM-94NJZKybb7fLlnyw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
All of this within a 10 minute window. An hour later I saw this picture posted on facebook. Explains the weather.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht-TQHp5pDeajDa6BqPldk6apwDK7_x0zpc48u8YwRM_E3IEwm6N_qLYYtB8RfL8hRm3uevR1r_UA1gAHEvBVpMA10RmXYkmZsyoa-suo1YvUH_Th6ANFqcZfQLwZcLSZSvYS48LHGGn4/s1600/Friday+Clouds.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht-TQHp5pDeajDa6BqPldk6apwDK7_x0zpc48u8YwRM_E3IEwm6N_qLYYtB8RfL8hRm3uevR1r_UA1gAHEvBVpMA10RmXYkmZsyoa-suo1YvUH_Th6ANFqcZfQLwZcLSZSvYS48LHGGn4/s320/Friday+Clouds.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
Luckily this never did touch down. it did enough just passing over. <br /><br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2641366534178599670.post-21064894009499769912013-05-24T07:05:00.000-07:002013-05-24T07:05:01.332-07:00It's been a long time since I posted here. I have had a lot happen. <br />
<br />
I've discovered why I was in so much pain - the doctors are thinking it's my pancreas not working right. it'll take months and testing to figure it out, but we are working on it. <br />
<br />
I ended up being laid off at work. Road bans slowed things down considerably. It was okay though. I honestly believe that job, and the excessive hours, was costing me my health. <br />
<br />
I spent some time trying to decide what to do next. I now am working as an in home worker. Helping families who are struggling with all types of issues. I've also decided I'm going back to school for my masters in social work. I've found a program that I can do almost all online. I do need to go to the school for two weeks - one in the first year, and one in the last year. Everything else can be done online and through distance learning. <br />
<br />
My plan is to get my MSW, then to get some additional training in EMDR therapies. I want to focus on mental health. <br />
<br />
I've decided I need to do something productive with my life. This is something I'm good at, and have gotten away from. So it's time to turn it all around and get back to my roots.<br />
<br />
I'm training for the next half marathon I'll be running - Queen City Marathon. I'll be running the half. So I'm trying to train. I've had some trouble - caught a cold, been feeling bad. I'm not giving up though. I'm getting back on track today. <br />
<br />
That about sums it all up. It's been a busy couple of months, but I'm feeling pretty good about all of it. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2641366534178599670.post-65416378688776876402013-02-20T09:17:00.001-08:002013-02-20T09:17:38.111-08:00I really don't know if I've got any fight left in me anymore. <br />
<br />
I've been trying for a month now. I've ended up sick and in pain for
over half of it. The pain in my stomach has been almost unbearable. <br />
<br />
But I've been fighting through it. I know what the cause of the pain is - at least a HUGE part of it anyway. <br />
<br />
I got a phone call on Friday night. For those of you who don't know,
Friday was my 40th birthday. It was tough enough - mainly because of
everything that's been going on for the past 5 months. First I lost my
brother. Then a very close friend of the family - like another
grandmother. My cousins lost their child - he only survived for 10days
and couldn't hold on. My grandfather died a week later. <br />
<br />
Anyhow I've been trying to pull myself out of this rut of depression
I've been falling into. Then I got that stupid phone call. It was my
mother. I thought it was birthday wishes. Nope. Wrong again. My
nephew passed away. On my birthday. <br />
<br />
I just can't do this right now. I'm fried. I haven't been able to deal
with my severe mood swings for the past few days. I find myself
getting angry with Hubby because he can't seem to understand I need some
time alone. It's not that I don't want to be with him. I need some
time to grieve - to work through these losses. It's becoming a fight. I
just can't hold it together anymore. I can't keep pretending
everything's okay. <br />
<br />
No wonder my stomach won't stop hurting.
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2641366534178599670.post-9680289399585626542013-02-15T06:58:00.002-08:002013-02-15T06:58:19.660-08:00TodayIt's feeling like the weight of the world is on my shoulders right now. <br /><br />I know that attitude and how I approach things is a huge part of how I will feel about them. <br /><br />I honeslty tried to have a positve outlook this morning. I really did. When my mood started to turn, I took some time, and decided I wouldn't let some silly attitude ruin my day. <br /><br />Then the silly little straw that breaks the camels back came along. It doesn't really matter what it was. I lost it. Got angry. Very angry. Then cried. <br /><br />I really should have taken a sick day off of work, but with all of this HR stuff supposed to be settled by the end of this week I didn't want to drag it out until after the long weekend. <br /><br />I am in so much pain again today. I caved and took some painkillers. I am trying to curb the physical pain, so I can change my attitude. <br /><br /><img src="http://photos-ak.sparkpeople.com/nw/1/2/l1295947175.jpg" /> <br /><br /><img src="http://photos-ak.sparkpeople.com/nw/1/5/l1582932250.jpg" /> <br /><br />I know what this is all about. It goes so much deeper than anything I've said on here before. <br /><br />Deeper than loosing my brother - it's honeslty bordering on survivors guilt with that whole issue. <br /><br />Deeper than just gaining some weight - I am beginning to see that I really don't love me anymore. <br /><br /><img src="http://photos-ak.sparkpeople.com/nw/1/0/l1086389937.jpg" /> <br /><br />I need to believe this. I don't right now, but I need to. <br /><br /><img src="http://photos-ak.sparkpeople.com/nw/9/0/l907187641.jpg" /> <br /><br />I am sorry, but I had to get that out of my head. I don't know if it's the last I'll say on any of it. I guess it's not really likely. It's time I admit to myself what is really going on. I can't get through it if I don't face it. But not right now. <br /><br />I need to turn my thoughts today. I don't want to let this spoil our weekend away. I won't let it. <br /><br />As for the straw that broke the camel's back this morning? I need to look at it as an excuse to go shopping. What the heck. Who doesn't love that? <br /><br />The physical pain is not really changing - the painkillers aren't even touching it. I didn't expect they would. I think it's tied a lot more closely to this mess going on in my mind than I want to admit. But I CAN'T let that stop me. <br /><br /><img src="http://photos-ak.sparkpeople.com/nw/2/0/l2016273925.jpg" /> <br /><br /><img src="http://photos-ak.sparkpeople.com/nw/9/5/l957715895.jpg" /> <br /><br /><img src="http://photos-ak.sparkpeople.com/nw/4/8/l484775373.jpg" /> <br /><br />Time for me to discover just how strong I really am. <br /><br />And just so you all know, stopping by with well wishes, reading my blog, commenting, they all let me know that although I feel completely alone in these struggles, I am not. There are others out there who care, and are doing what they can to help me fight back. Others out there cheering me on and encouraging me to keep going. <br /><br />I don't say it enough, but thank you. <br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2641366534178599670.post-83910490393347937942013-01-30T10:04:00.000-08:002013-01-30T10:04:21.604-08:00Disconnected, and scared.I am so disconnected today. I didn't even realize it.. I think I've been this way for a while. I remember having anger issues last week. My best guess is that not long after the anger went away, the disconnection took over. <br />
<br />
I need to fix this. I will just get worse and worse if I don't reconnect. <br />
<br />
I'm not even sure why I've disconnected. I just know I am. <br />
<br />
I've got a big birthday coming up in a month. I'm turning 40. I've known for a while this one will be tough. I remember how tough 30 was. This one is worse. Loosing my brother last fall is just making it so much worse. He was younger than I am. <br />
<br />
I also have issues with Hubby. But I'm wondering if the issues are real, or if I'm nit picking. Afraid of things going so well, so I try to sabotage them? Maybe. <br />
<br />
I've gained weight. Almost if not all that I lost in 2009. I'm struggling with that fact. I know how to fix it, but haven't done anything about it yet. I don't really know why.<br />
<br />
I have everything I need to get my fitness back on track. In fact, until last Friday, I was on track again. I was running 3 days/week, and going to the gym the other 3. I ran 6 days the first week. Then started the gym/run alternating the next week. <br />
<br />
I haven't gone to do either this week yet. No real reason. I just haven't. I'm feeling worse for it. I'm feeling guilty for not going. <br />
<br />
I finally realized this afternoon just how disconnected I am. I know it's a defense mechanism. I don't know why. I just know it is. I guess it's time to focus on what I need to do to bring me back. Get this fog out of my head.<br />
<br />
Mindfulness. Every day. All the time. But in the beginning, especially focusing on doing it throughout the day. Countdowns. 5 things I see. 5 things I hear. 5 things I smell. 5 things I feel. 5 things I taste. 4 things I see....etc. <br />
<br />
Keep tracking everything I eat. I need to be mindful of what I'm putting in my body. And I need to focus on drinking water. Maybe it's time to cut out all other drinks. It's a shock to the system, but maybe that's what I need. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2641366534178599670.post-75990112160228099952013-01-30T07:11:00.001-08:002013-01-30T07:11:03.219-08:00Feeling a little better todayI took today off work - called in sick. I'm not really lying. I have been out of sorts for a few days now. Besides, I have to do some day to day stuff that I really can't do while I'm at work - replace my debit card, see the chiropractor, get my new glasses adjusted. It's a shame I'll loose the 2 hours of overtime. But since I'm salary, I won't loose the entire day. I still feel guilty about it though.<br /><br />So I'm starting my morning off by sleeping in. Going to get a good breakfast at some point. Get all my running around done too.<br /><br />I didn't do anything last night after work. The office shut down an hour early. A blizzard blew in. We got out of there while there was still some daylight to see. <br /><br />I need to not only get moving again. I also need to get practicing. I don't want to waste the time and money I spent on those dance lessons this past weekend. <br /><br />Overall I've been feeling completely defeated. I got on the scale this morning. I wasn't expecting to see any results - I haven't worked at it since last Thursday. I was kind of surprised to see some progress. Mind you, when I was kicking my butt, I didn't see any. I know there can be a lapse between the work, and the results. I also know something else. If I don't get back to it soon, I'll watch that hard work all be wasted too.<br /><br />I know it doesn't really sound like it, but I am feeling a little better today. More at peace. I've just fallen into a rut, and need to find a way to crawl back out of it. I guess I need to write a today's kick in the butt blog soon. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2641366534178599670.post-22471968022325837502013-01-29T12:15:00.001-08:002013-01-29T12:15:19.805-08:00:(It's been a very long week. If you've read my last blog, you will know why hubby and I are having problems. They are not getting any better. <br /><br />I'm also struggling to get out and do what I need to do for my fitness. Yesterday, I was so depressed, I just went home and straight to bed. No supper. No bath. No fitness. <br /><br />It wasn't good. <br /><br />I can't keep doing that. <br /><br />Today I HAVE to get out. Either to the gym or running after work. Either one is okay. As long as I do something. <br /><br />I can't get upset by the results I didn't get with the work I didn't do. How do I expect to ever get this back on track if I let these things knock me right off??? <br /><br />Besides, I really felt bored last night. Bored and ashamed. Ashamed that I didn't do what I needed to do to get the job done. <br /><br />The plan for tonight is either the gym or running, supper, then off to the gym to practice dancing. I've got 6 weeks before I should get back to see Richard. I need to KNOW the stuff he challenged me with this past weekend. The better I know it, and can feel it, the faster I'll progress onto something more with my dancing. <br /><br />As for hubby, we still aren't really talking. I don't even know who to talk to him. I'm so upset by it all, I just want to walk away. <br /><br />But then I realize what I'd be loosing. I don't know. <br /><br />Why am I so confused? Maybe as good as this all is, it's just not a right fit for me. Or am I just sabotaging things because for once they are good???? <br /><br />I hate this. <br /><br />I really need to turn my mind to better things. Find the beauty in everyday things around me again. Pull myself out of this funk. <br /><br />It's my birthday in a couple of weeks. Just under 3 actually. It's a big one. Maybe that's what's bothering me? <br /><br />I really don't know anymore. All I know is I'm very very sad. <br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2641366534178599670.post-60078700847093405732013-01-26T05:50:00.001-08:002013-01-26T05:50:07.119-08:00I really don't know what to do. I'm not his mother. It's not my place in his life. <br />
<br />
Maybe I just don't have a place in his life. Maybe that's what this is all about.<br />
<br />
I TOLD him this was a deal breaker for me. So he went out and did it again 2 weeks ago. Then wondered why I pulled away from him for two weeks. <br />
<br />
I finally came around, and he goes and does it the very next day! <br />
<br />
I can't do this. I can't need to spend my life worrying about it, not trusting him. I won't live like that. <br />
<br />
And honestly, at this point, I don't trust him. Obviously. I sent someone out to spy on him last night. I'm not proud of it, but that's what happened. I couldn't reach him. <br />
<br />
I finally blew up. Told him I'm thinking of not coming back. At this point, if I didn't love my job so much, I wouldn't go back. I know. There are issues at work too that are adding to this stress. <br />
<br />
Right now, if I could, I'd transfer to Calgary and be done with this whole mess. I'm actually thinking of going back to work and working towards that. A transfer out of here. Or maybe it's just time to walk away.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2641366534178599670.post-53880570289907028202013-01-23T10:42:00.001-08:002013-01-23T10:42:44.987-08:00What a friggin scam!I am friggin PI$$ED OFF today. <br /><br />I got transfered to another office at work a few weeks ago. I was told it was at most only an extra 5minute drive. WRONG. It's about twice as far. <br /><br />Anyhow, out here, everyone who gets hired gets at least one hour of OT to go towards travel. It takes everyone almost an hour each way, but generally everyone gets an extra hour. <br /><br />Today I talked to the boss about this. He said no. I agreed to this, and that's all there is. I told them when I accepted the job, it was with a 20min drive, not a 55min drive. <br /><br />Their opinion - too bad. <br /><br />I have a lot to consider now. <br /><br />Do I look for a new job? <br />In all honesty, I like my job here. I don't mind the overtime shifts either. But come on. Heck, some guys out here get paid from the minute they leave thier house 75minutes away, until they get back. <br /><br />I'm just so frustrated right now. <br /><br />In the meantime, I'm not going to knock myself out anymore. Not for this crap. They have even said already, I am doing more work than the girl I am replacing. And she had the extra hour available to her. <br /><br />Plus in all reality, I'm here longer! Not by much, but I'm here working at my desk 15minutes earlier EVERY DAY! I can tell you, that's going to end RIGHT NOW! <br /><br />What a friggin scam. <br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2641366534178599670.post-54931087364001679032013-01-13T04:44:00.000-08:002013-01-13T04:44:12.710-08:00I am really not sure what this all will bring. All I know for sure is things are tense. <br />
<br />
Hubby and I haven't really even tried to fix this yet. Instead, we are both kind of pretending it didn't really happen. Mind you, things are not right. <br />
<br />
He bought me a necklace yesterday. I wish he hadn't. I can't be bought. So I just put it in the bag with the jeans I had just bought myself earlier that morning.<br />
<br />
Seems strange, but my frustration out of this mess is what's fueling my motivation to move again. To not just sit here and let my behind expand anymore. I really kicked it out of the park yesterday. Not once did I feel bad for putting my moving ahead of some us activity. I had no reason to. Hubby was still nursing a hang-over, and at this point knows better than to try to guilt me into anything. He's lucky I'm still here. <br />
<br />
Actually, if I had somewhere else to go, I would've gone for the weekend. <br />
<br />
Anyhow, today is a new day. I have some things I really should take care of before a new work week starts. Groceries. Preparing as much as I can ahead of time regarding meals, etc. Laundry. Laying out my fitness gear so I don't have to search for it after a long day at work. Putting away the new jeans, etc I've picked up this weekend. And generally getting a game plan together. <br />
<br />
In all honesty, I haven't slept well in a few days either. Last night was under 6 hours. I need to fix that tonight. I can't be running on half a tank of rest and fuel the huge amounts I have to do every day.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2641366534178599670.post-72517542267805712212013-01-12T05:50:00.000-08:002013-01-12T05:50:10.380-08:002012 was a long, tough year. I can honestly say I'm glad it's over. Between the stress on the job, losing so many family members, it was just more than I could take. <br />
<br />
I've started this year off fighting back. <br />
<br />
First off, I'm keeping a positive blog. Trying to find something positive every day. Or a poster/picture that caries a message that has meaning to me, and will help guide me on the right path in life. At least, what I think is my right path. Today is day 12, and I've kept it up. They are not long blogs, but there is one there for every day. I'm still working this into my daily routine. Once it finds an appropriate "spot", it'll take 3 weeks of doing it then to become a habit.<br />
<br />
I am also working on my weight loss again. I've found I've struggled and kept giving up on myself time after time. A couple of nights ago, I had a lot of trouble breathing. Just like the asthma-like attacks I used to have. It was frustrating to think they are coming back again, but it shouldn't surprise me. Last summer I noticed the heartburn and abdominal pains are back too. <br />
<br />
This attack made me realize I really can't just keep waiting for something to happen to make the weight go away. I NEED to do it. I need to make the steps. NOW.<br />
<br />
On Friday morning, I tried on my jacket that I got from the Las Vegas RnR marathon. It was tight when I bought it. Well, it was not as tight yesterday. It is still pulling across my chest, but not as much. Hubby walked in and busted out laughing. When I got mad at him, he told me that would never change. I told him it would so. When I loose weight, it gets looser. That's just the way it goes. Well, he doesn't believe that. I left for work angry. Heck, I'm still angry about that one.<br />
<br />
It made me realize something though. He's been like this from the start. The "go-to" meal around here is pasta. Yes, I make my own pasta sauce, and it's great. But having pasta as much as we do, no wonder I've put on pounds. When Hubby suggested pasta on Thursday night, I went out, bought chicken breasts, and cooked up my old go-to meal when I was loosing weight. Grilled chicken breast with a little seasoning, baked potato with a little bit of butter, salt and pepper, and lots of vegetables. Doesn't really matter what kind. Even frozen will do in a pinch. Just lots and lots of vegetables. That entire dinner comes to under 500 calories. If I'm really hungry and craving more protein, another chicken breast will only add another 171 calories. That still does not set me too high for my supper. <br />
<br />
When I try to set aside time/energy to go running, he does all he can to make sure it doesn't happen. Talks me out of it. Makes me feel bad for being too tired/sore to have sex after. You name it, he has done it.<br />
<br />
It's taken me months to be sure, but now I am. He doesn't want me to loose the weight. He does everything in his power to try to stop it. <br />
<br />
I can't keep letting this happen. It's my body. It's my choice. I can't let him keep taking that away from me. Look at where it's gotten me so far.<br />
<br />
The positivity blog I'm keeping seems to be helping when this kind of crap gets thrown at me. I actually created another positive blog AFTER all of this happened. So although it does make me angry, it no longer completely ruins my day. <br />
<br />
Yesterday was a day to be ruined. It started out with Hubby laughing about my trying on that jacket. Then I got stuck in a severe winter storm. I did make it home safe, but was really frazzled by the time I did. Then when Hubby came home, he didn't seem to have any idea why I might be out of sorts. I really don't get what's wrong with men. Anyhow, he went out for the afternoon, and didn't come home until after midnight, drunk. Yes, he drove his truck drunk again. The one thing I told him was a deal breaker for me. <br />
<br />
Anyhow, I don't know what I'm going to do. I just want to dig my car out and leave town, at least for the weekend. Where am I going to go? I just don't think staying here is a good idea. So for right now, I've got the coffee on. I'm updating my blogs. And I'm going to just stay put. <br />
<br />
But I am going to go out for a run today. No if's-and's-or-but's about that one.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2641366534178599670.post-48135712001482710322013-01-11T07:23:00.000-08:002013-01-11T07:23:24.088-08:00This morning Hubby really pissed me off. This is a bad one. <br />
<br />
He knows I'm not happy with the weight I've put on. I have a jacket that used to fit, and now "stretches" across my chest when I zip it up. <br />
<br />
Today I tried it on. It's a little looser than it was. I haven't been able to focus on my weight loss, but I felt so wonderful. It's a little looser. <br />
<br />
Well, he walked in and busted out laughing. The told me that it will never change. <br />
<br />
I got pissed off and walked out. No good-bye kiss on my way to work. Just walked. <br />
<br />
I don't even want to be here now. I'm home early - a winter storm has shut my office down for the day. You can see the mess of that all in my previous two blogs. <br />
<br />
Anyhow, I'm done with his crap. No more talking me into not pushing my fitness like I KNOW I need to in order to see progress/results. No more talking me into eating out, or making pasta my "go to" supper. I'm DONE.<br />
<br />
And if he thinks sex is going to come before my running, he's off his nut. At this point, I don't even want him touching me at all.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2641366534178599670.post-91706686246655239382013-01-11T07:14:00.000-08:002013-01-11T07:14:45.683-08:00January 11 2013 - blizzard blew in while I was at work<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dwjbqyhkzXWHU8P1KOXCBZT8cNiQE7LILWJgeV8Amfh1EgNpeubWKHaMCo2mtlYhCSuzzkqfdvcOq3kp3aopw' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
At the office this morning. It honestly wasn't even snowing or blowing when I left home.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dydKfnZ5MwrW-W8nuN7upcCqf9cPYTDtzgoaOX5NUpHAqLcgwl-nQSYL1rC3c73T2-I5ugbEZtLG2KOZyw9jA' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
And the wonderful drive home. The road kept disappearing on me. It usually takes me 40 minutes to drive one way. This morning, it took me almost 3 hours. But I'm happy to report, I'm home safe and sound. Shiney side up. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2641366534178599670.post-28825745342436238922013-01-10T11:48:00.001-08:002013-01-10T11:48:04.262-08:00Still adjusting to the longer hours at work. Not sure how long I'll have them, so I'm taking full advantage while I can. <br />
<br />
I don't mind the longer hours. It's just hard, with a 45minute drive each way as well. Harder when the prarie winter storms turn my drive into 2hours + one way. <br />
<br />
All in all I'm enjoying the new office, and the extra hours. <br />
<br />
Hubby and I are going to Las Vegas again. March 10. For the Nascar races on Sunday. Flights have worked out that we are there for a week again, so we are booking shows, etc. <br />
<br />
This time we are going with some friends of his. <br />
<br />
I'm excited to go. It'll be nice to get away. All the stress and crap that was going on at work. I know. It's gone now, but it sure took a toll. <br />
<br />
With the longer hours at work, I am struggling to find time for fitness. I'm not giving up though. I'm going to find a way to make this all work. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2641366534178599670.post-1783769412169647982013-01-08T13:40:00.002-08:002013-01-08T13:40:45.703-08:00Talked to the boss today. Looks like I'm getting things done so much faster than they expected, that I won't really have any overtime soon. Funny, but I was a little upset when I was told that. I vaguely recall being upset at the prospect of having to do overtime every day when it was first mentioned to me. Funny how that all changes.<br />
<br />
Anyhow, I guess I'll just see what happens. If it's meant to be, it will.<br />
<br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2641366534178599670.post-38802079697656884792013-01-07T16:55:00.001-08:002013-01-07T16:55:41.064-08:00First day at the new officeIt was great. It is such a better place to work. There are a few things I've got to work out - getting used to the drive, having to go to another trailer every time I need the bathroom, changing in and out of my shoes every time I go outside, and the overtime. I didn't realize until now just how big a toll it's taking on me. I'm thinking today's exhaustion is mainly from being up at 3am. I couldn't sleep. Then I had to make two stops on the way home. <br />
<br />
I'm thinking ill have to be sure I have all my weeks groceries BEFORE Sunday night. <br />
<br />
Other than that, I'm loving the new office. So friendly. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2641366534178599670.post-51324475019591054772013-01-06T08:19:00.002-08:002013-01-06T08:19:46.813-08:00A New Year...It's been a long time since I blogged. I found myself very busy. Things in life kind of took a turn for the worse. <br />
<br />
After my brothers funeral, things kept piling on. Mom had a knee replacement, and needed me to run her to the hospital for the surgery, home after, and back in for an infection a week later. This wouldn't have been such a stressful issue, but a one way trip from my home, to moms, and to the hospital is about 8 hours of driving. Don't get me wrong. I am glad I was able to do it. It was just a huge "thing" for me.<br />
<br />
At work things got really bad. Mostly because of the time I needed off. <br />
<br />
In December, my grandfather passed away. I was too sick to get to that funeral, but I tried. <br />
<br />
And of course, family "crap" from Matthews funeral. It's gotten so bad I'm just walking away. I'm beyond done. <br />
<br />
In early December, I went to Las Vegas with my son to run in the Rock and Roll Half Marathon. I put my back out two weeks before, and was barely able to move. Changing from lying to sitting, or sitting to standing would cause me to black out from the pain. It broke my heart to have to accept I had to drop out of the race. In the end, I walked it. I did cross the finish line, and went the whole distance. That helped me feel a little better. I felt like I could still do something. Finish something I started.<br />
<br />
Between the family stress, losses, and crap at work, I am SO glad 2012 is over. I don't think I could have taken any more. <br />
<br />
Tomorrow, I start at a new location. Working for the same company, just at a new office location. That was a lot of stress to bring about. And the stress in the last week in that office leading up to my move just got so much worse. At least I'm out of there now. <br />
<br />
The new position will entail overtime - up to 2 hours every day. I have made some arrangements to save/invest this "new found" income. So my retirement investments/savings will start to grow like crazy. <br />
<br />
I'm struggling with some issues with Hubby. He was stressed out over the Las Vegas trip. He came with my son and I, but...<br />
<br />
Overall it was a great trip. However, my son told me after the trip he felt like he was a third wheel on our trip. Didn't really feel fully included. That bothered me. The trip was for him. Hubby also told me later that the next trip would be just us. He didn't really like having my son along. It bothers me that he doesn't get it. This trip was for my son. Period. It was his 21st birthday gift, Christmas gift, and a chance for him and I to get to know each other as adults, not a parent-child. It just feels like I let him down on all fronts there. <br />
<br />
Hubby is also stressed about a few more things. We talked. I'm getting back into dance competitions. He wants to learn with me. So not only am I learning my routines (lots of stress there right now), I'm teaching him too. <br />
<br />
Don't get me wrong. I LOVE dance. I'm excited to learn the new routines. To get back to competing. To teach Hubby so I have a dance partner. It's all good. <br />
<br />
It's his stress that's getting to me. He seems to think it'll just come to him. I keep telling him, you need to work at it to learn right now. Eventually, it'll get easier. But for right now, it's work work work. <br />
<br />
As for my routines, I still don't have them. I talked to an instructor in Vegas - early December. He was going to send me videos. So far, nothing. April is the first competition. It's coming up soon, especially considering I can't take weekly lessons. I need the time to work through the routines and learn them so I'm ready to connect with my instructor and practice. It's starting to stress me out. I'm even considering getting another instructor to get me started. I'll be making contact sometime next week to work this all out. <br />
<br />
I use these blogs to vent. To work through the thoughts rolling around in my head, and maybe my heart. To get them out so I can see they are not as big as I may be making them out to be. <br />
<br />
Hubby saw me blogging this morning. It was my financial blog - where I'm tracking my journey to having some retirement savings. He was concerned at what I was saying. Nothing was really all that detailed. It went into how much I'm contributing of my salary to different programs, how much the company is doing, and finally what I'm going to do with the overtime I'll start to be getting. General terms, and percentages. He got a little excited. I know he isn't used to this blogging thing. He has no idea why I do it. I don't think he even knew I did before today, or what I blogged about. <br />
<br />
I just wish he'd understand, I need to deal with my issues/things in my own way. We both see my wanting to dance differently. My desire to loose weight. To run. He sees it as too much stress on my body. I've tried to tell him, yes it's stressful. I need to do it to get where I want to be. Yes, I'm struggling with health problems. I won't let them keep me from doing what I need to do to get past these problems. Loosing the weight will help alleviate the physical symptoms of whatever it is that is causing me so much digestive distress and pain. It also helps with my breathing. My energy levels. And my overall mental health. He just doesn't get it. All he sees is how exhausted I am. How I have to force myself to just get out there and do it, especially for the first couple of weeks. Then he starts to sabotage it. Cooking foods I love, that are more padding than fuel - which makes the next run/workout that much harder to do. It also stalls my progress out, and I end up discouraged. <br />
<br />
I am just starting at times to feel a little trapped. He's supportive of my "things", but only so far. If it goes against something he wants, he starts to make me feel like I'm doing something wrong. <br />
<br />
I won't park in the driveway anymore. He makes a habit of parking across the driveway entrance, so I can't go anywhere with my vehicle unless I move his truck. It's a control thing. So rather than get into it with him, I just won't park there anymore. I've tried to tell him, I'm here by my choice. I want to be here. I'm not going anywhere. But if this continues, I'll have to let him know I feel like my choice is being taken away. Once that happens, I'm gone. Period. <br />
<br />
Don't get me wrong. I love him. He's the best thing that's ever happened to me. But I can't be controlled like that. No way. I am my own person. If I'm going to be happy I need to still be a whole person - not a puppet who does whatever someone else wants me to do. <br />
<br />
Anyhow, that's my vent for today. At least I got some time on my own today to be able to get it out. Often Hubby's sitting next to me, and he tends to look over my shoulder to see what's up. I get it. But sometimes I just need me time. Online. At home. Anywhere. I just need space. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2641366534178599670.post-62404744893067313262012-10-11T09:38:00.001-07:002012-10-11T09:38:09.373-07:00Farewell Matthew<br />
<br />
<span class="journal_edit"><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OzlJug5ad3Y&feature=youtu.be" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.youtube.com/watch?v=OzlJug5ad3Y&<br />feature=youtu.be </a></span> <br />
<br />
I am still not doing very well. I had to take a couple of more days off
of work. The headaches were getting to be too much. These are the
kinds of headaches that pills don't help. <br />
<br />
So instead of struggling and driving everyone at work crazy, I'm working
from home for the next couple of days. And if I don't get any work
done, I guess I'm taking a few days off. I'm so lucky. I talked to my
supervisor. They said to take as long as I need. I'll be honest with
them as to any work I get done, and we'll go from there. <br />
<br />
The above link is to a video my son put together. My youngest brother
wanted it done for our brother, but couldn't do it. Neither could I.
So I handed the music and pics to my son, and he did this. It's a
fantastic job. <br />
<br />
I'm so proud of that boy. He showed everyone what a caring man he's
become. He took care of his grandma. He took care of me. He felt so
honored to be asked to help carry his favorite uncle and godfather to
his resting place. He went out and rented a very tasteful suit for the
occassion, since he doesn't own one. <br />
<br />
Today I'm thinking I'm not going to just sit here and wait for things to
come my way anymore. I'm going to start fighting back. Not sure when,
but soon. I know. It sounds like a cop out. But I'm still so
overwhelmed and in so much pain. <br />
<br />
I'm going to do my best to get out today. At least walk, if not run.
Fresh air. Sunshine. Physical activity. I'm hoping it starts the ball
rolling on recovery.
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2641366534178599670.post-24601577188354824382012-10-02T13:34:00.001-07:002012-10-02T13:34:35.170-07:00RIP Matthew Donavon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
On Friday September 28, 2012 my brother Matthew Donovan Passed away at the age of 37. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He simply went to sleep. Sometime in the night, his grandmother came to help him find his way home to God. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He struggled with illness for many years. Through it all, he never lost his faith. He would often tell people god wouldn't let anything bad happen to him, no matter how bad it got.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
During his struggles, he seemed to loose that mischevious smile and twinkle in his eyes. I am sure they are back now, and can't wait for the day I get to see them again for myself.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
He never married, or had children, but loved family more than anything. He adored his two godsons, Ryan and Matthew.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7LalXUAtGt57r84fEDdA5mD_dGUdUxp82nFlEck2CHoee7WHHl9bdBtaZoaCXj_21vsXJ-veoDNr0Kg8y8EOZY8wkHdeyZ6x7O5I-HJK7SxjEKXw60chDxkIpfJrRvlycbiEEr7PHcAw/s1600/IMG_0571.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7LalXUAtGt57r84fEDdA5mD_dGUdUxp82nFlEck2CHoee7WHHl9bdBtaZoaCXj_21vsXJ-veoDNr0Kg8y8EOZY8wkHdeyZ6x7O5I-HJK7SxjEKXw60chDxkIpfJrRvlycbiEEr7PHcAw/s320/IMG_0571.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigf-R3sK8d-vgSFbMMOYvO72s8Gjb1Binj5Uf6V3HhDx4ML69QhXET5X66Y9V0pT9Ep4V_0xOMqeQ9At1GTth01dZfHRayaQypGeCIEeycRySGftNpaDsn0hg7IrZXIgfXKN7zAkEeplw/s1600/IMG_0579.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigf-R3sK8d-vgSFbMMOYvO72s8Gjb1Binj5Uf6V3HhDx4ML69QhXET5X66Y9V0pT9Ep4V_0xOMqeQ9At1GTth01dZfHRayaQypGeCIEeycRySGftNpaDsn0hg7IrZXIgfXKN7zAkEeplw/s1600/IMG_0579.JPG" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigf-R3sK8d-vgSFbMMOYvO72s8Gjb1Binj5Uf6V3HhDx4ML69QhXET5X66Y9V0pT9Ep4V_0xOMqeQ9At1GTth01dZfHRayaQypGeCIEeycRySGftNpaDsn0hg7IrZXIgfXKN7zAkEeplw/s320/IMG_0579.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIkIAvnkZQwhQf6Ygz-rjFh5rMY4Z7zoTdzHdk_-vL3kSaYzKqW1nXXEVqC4SQV0gctdgBJOvDx0MzjCP4VQyv2P-taqYUaKzBizfcoA4r2aR8NEFPYpXBpT3IAD_yhEHKf7NRF8mXhNA/s1600/IMG_0541.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIkIAvnkZQwhQf6Ygz-rjFh5rMY4Z7zoTdzHdk_-vL3kSaYzKqW1nXXEVqC4SQV0gctdgBJOvDx0MzjCP4VQyv2P-taqYUaKzBizfcoA4r2aR8NEFPYpXBpT3IAD_yhEHKf7NRF8mXhNA/s1600/IMG_0541.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIkIAvnkZQwhQf6Ygz-rjFh5rMY4Z7zoTdzHdk_-vL3kSaYzKqW1nXXEVqC4SQV0gctdgBJOvDx0MzjCP4VQyv2P-taqYUaKzBizfcoA4r2aR8NEFPYpXBpT3IAD_yhEHKf7NRF8mXhNA/s320/IMG_0541.JPG" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIkIAvnkZQwhQf6Ygz-rjFh5rMY4Z7zoTdzHdk_-vL3kSaYzKqW1nXXEVqC4SQV0gctdgBJOvDx0MzjCP4VQyv2P-taqYUaKzBizfcoA4r2aR8NEFPYpXBpT3IAD_yhEHKf7NRF8mXhNA/s1600/IMG_0541.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheh4Zk61PgdcNUfZfMhr2V7KqqZzXfIQ81-7v6ZsX6vING3VPUACxe_YXCi3o3TZG29XPzoXmPvDri7c7EUfkzKRWBujPt8OJoDCrYWXnJqBNAMMWzMXiurzGr6kRXpbZvcwyezfQB118/s1600/IMG_0542.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEheh4Zk61PgdcNUfZfMhr2V7KqqZzXfIQ81-7v6ZsX6vING3VPUACxe_YXCi3o3TZG29XPzoXmPvDri7c7EUfkzKRWBujPt8OJoDCrYWXnJqBNAMMWzMXiurzGr6kRXpbZvcwyezfQB118/s320/IMG_0542.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLXiA7gLm4CH-1Tk7EP0PoP_hg8yb5LjwijAITsXNlpcdRqWq5QehrshhtUToAx53A2vm_xW5nXFCOU9GMRRxyqsepX18uJIqTAsJy4lwrVB2RzLPdlFvf9RHfMg7ZCQhEKEY3-P6f78c/s1600/IMG_0558.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLXiA7gLm4CH-1Tk7EP0PoP_hg8yb5LjwijAITsXNlpcdRqWq5QehrshhtUToAx53A2vm_xW5nXFCOU9GMRRxyqsepX18uJIqTAsJy4lwrVB2RzLPdlFvf9RHfMg7ZCQhEKEY3-P6f78c/s320/IMG_0558.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnr2UDhKUJ8-JgjbwYO6XegTPEg8XFIXvTzu7zizIVS9tWTQxJkHhVaQ2sap52B5SU2y3TajEQt7RQHEEOoQ9w61sfVoWr5Nszrchz-yad3gj2p0ZjLVe0p4GS7EbYobzzInVEoSXGFg4/s1600/IMG_0540.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnr2UDhKUJ8-JgjbwYO6XegTPEg8XFIXvTzu7zizIVS9tWTQxJkHhVaQ2sap52B5SU2y3TajEQt7RQHEEOoQ9w61sfVoWr5Nszrchz-yad3gj2p0ZjLVe0p4GS7EbYobzzInVEoSXGFg4/s320/IMG_0540.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyP3V2IX2efAC1-tXYXa21QnecO55kDeuBUjT4nbjJEjo23JlXOZrMkvzCNxwRDuKkEUlPplVVuzIEF-r3kdppcw_vNMPTOarfitdbttK-xCoFFAF0NPi7M6i6s5lQzzNaf-soJfhbF0o/s1600/IMG_0568.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyP3V2IX2efAC1-tXYXa21QnecO55kDeuBUjT4nbjJEjo23JlXOZrMkvzCNxwRDuKkEUlPplVVuzIEF-r3kdppcw_vNMPTOarfitdbttK-xCoFFAF0NPi7M6i6s5lQzzNaf-soJfhbF0o/s320/IMG_0568.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh05x55q0SXafVjy82i9fCeBZZteuMKTWG0dQIPlmj2wjjrm20-MPz__Aptnm1W96MBWDr6sayi5_GT7qdJKPeNWxmWpiWVGQgytmObVIruHl7MJVzo7G_08fwqIeqyDyqRqywN8Etld4o/s1600/IMG_0567.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh05x55q0SXafVjy82i9fCeBZZteuMKTWG0dQIPlmj2wjjrm20-MPz__Aptnm1W96MBWDr6sayi5_GT7qdJKPeNWxmWpiWVGQgytmObVIruHl7MJVzo7G_08fwqIeqyDyqRqywN8Etld4o/s320/IMG_0567.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-C3z0v-2eFXGOuy8kwrXfVBImYoxcrMi99HHwkUCzM2NIPHwNwRUswQk9c9qec9W8UM2-lpqAGy5dwWEwxPVSUDEo_nxkdGv4eo27qxyvQ9lxSmVPwowLgbULwZdzBjkEJ3_Ndh1zle8/s1600/IMG_0575.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-C3z0v-2eFXGOuy8kwrXfVBImYoxcrMi99HHwkUCzM2NIPHwNwRUswQk9c9qec9W8UM2-lpqAGy5dwWEwxPVSUDEo_nxkdGv4eo27qxyvQ9lxSmVPwowLgbULwZdzBjkEJ3_Ndh1zle8/s320/IMG_0575.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZjXHGejfhIbuJ48RnkuK_Nsy3u7pofO5g3a8dBebxvwMkMEB2VrWPnT4xQ3pluw56Yi4zdJwOHT3lgx_-eVISKeIWCCblPScyBuAoAd8XI5pJH9dCF429EP6UtIqtX6Hnonyv12edKSY/s1600/IMG_0516.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZjXHGejfhIbuJ48RnkuK_Nsy3u7pofO5g3a8dBebxvwMkMEB2VrWPnT4xQ3pluw56Yi4zdJwOHT3lgx_-eVISKeIWCCblPScyBuAoAd8XI5pJH9dCF429EP6UtIqtX6Hnonyv12edKSY/s320/IMG_0516.JPG" width="228" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdcAUVqp_xlQxC74m_mNRHKyQzBDY4Us1ckmizg85Z3UqJSIL9mudwTjPMzlIF7arDHbftdaddaOha9Plycoe7g6RPjOvDu1HBpbG0gUYXj6iIoZ65bJuALenASOIkWMw9tYIL8OANizI/s320/IMG_0517.JPG" width="256" /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7LalXUAtGt57r84fEDdA5mD_dGUdUxp82nFlEck2CHoee7WHHl9bdBtaZoaCXj_21vsXJ-veoDNr0Kg8y8EOZY8wkHdeyZ6x7O5I-HJK7SxjEKXw60chDxkIpfJrRvlycbiEEr7PHcAw/s1600/IMG_0571.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnr2UDhKUJ8-JgjbwYO6XegTPEg8XFIXvTzu7zizIVS9tWTQxJkHhVaQ2sap52B5SU2y3TajEQt7RQHEEOoQ9w61sfVoWr5Nszrchz-yad3gj2p0ZjLVe0p4GS7EbYobzzInVEoSXGFg4/s1600/IMG_0540.JPG" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyP3V2IX2efAC1-tXYXa21QnecO55kDeuBUjT4nbjJEjo23JlXOZrMkvzCNxwRDuKkEUlPplVVuzIEF-r3kdppcw_vNMPTOarfitdbttK-xCoFFAF0NPi7M6i6s5lQzzNaf-soJfhbF0o/s1600/IMG_0568.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Those of us left behind to grieve cry for us, but take comfort in the knowledge that he is no longer struggling with illness, and is with Grandma, Dad, and many other family members that we have lost in his short lifetime. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'll see you when I see you</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yJBKw1O1eM0" target="_blank">http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yJBKw1O1eM0</a></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2641366534178599670.post-11977283080590458612012-08-19T07:06:00.001-07:002012-08-19T07:06:37.713-07:00Today, and a few revelationsI am feeling so yucky again this morning. <br />
<br />
I woke up yesterday and wasn't feeling good right from the beginning. I
ended up taking an antihistamine to help with these allergies I can't
seem to shake. It really did help. But then I spent all day exhausted.
Not sure why. Just felt like I didn't get any sleep at all the night
before. <br />
<br />
This morning I'm feeling drained, dry, and generally not good. I get
the dry. I messed up yesterday. I didn't drink enough water. So
that's the solution to that one. <br />
<br />
I have been realizing a few things over this past week. <br />
<br />
1. My motivation is waining again. I get a little away from my
computer, and my motivation starts to wash away. I know I'm struggling
to deal with some changes. The biggest is my new job. I am going
through training. It's a new system. I'm good with computers, but
there is always a learning curve with new systems. I am still
organizing my notes, learning all the steps from start to finish with
the time tickets, and trying to learn what to do when things go wrong.
<br />
<br />
I know it sounds like I'm complaining about all of the above, but I'm
really not. I love the new challenge. The only issue is how mentally
draining it is right now. It's actually draining so much of my energy,
it's surprising me. <br />
<br />
Top it all off, I'm trying to maintain my cleansing diet, which means
planning ahead. I need to have all my food for the next day decided on
well before the stores close, so I can go get whatever I need. Ideally I
will have it put together before bed that night. <br />
<br />
Actually, forget ideally. It's a necessity if I'm going to be able to get my fitness in before work in the morning. <br />
<br />
2. This is the biggest one. It has to do with my cleansing diet,
eating well, all of it. I've discovered something. I'm an instant
gratification kind of person. It's having an effect on everything.
When I get hungry, I want something tasty right now. Unfortunately I
can't just run out to the store and pick something up. <br />
<br />
I don't know why this is still affecting me like this. I've had to deal
with being gluten free for about 3 years now. I guess the biggest
thing is I learned how to cheat a little. I found the junk you can eat
and still avoid gluten. <br />
<br />
Now those are gone. I am finding I need to avoid sugar too. Well,
that's a whole other layer to this issue. Even the delicious snacks
that are gluten free are now mostly off limits. <br />
<br />
If I want pasta with prego and cheese, I've gotta get the GF pasta, and make my own prego. <br />
<br />
I am learning to cope. I have learned how to can. I have a tonne of
canned fruit, ready to toss into a pie crust or under a fruit crumble
crust and bake. Or even just to snack on. Today I'm making another
batch of my tomato sauce so I have it on hand and ready to go when I
want some. <br />
<br />
But I'm still struggling with making sure I have enough things I want to
eat on hand so I avoid getting actually hungry. Friday I planned ahead
quite well. Then I over ate on the potato salad and have been paying
for it ever since. Let's just say I've had digestive issues all day
yesterday. <br />
<br />
I'm feeling so overwhelmed today. There is so much to do, and I'm
feeling like I just won't be able to get to it all. I don't know why
I'm feeling this way. I've canned tomato sauce before. Yes, it takes a
lot of time start to finish - my recipe has to cook for almost 5 hours,
not including prep time, canning, etc. Once it's on the stove
simmering, It's all about the timers. That's all. I can do it. I know
I can. Then once it's simmering, I can do some of the other things
that are on my plate for the day, including helping Lee with the new bed
frame. <br />
<br />
Top all that off with the fact that I'm finally starting to plan for my
retirement. I feel a little overwhelmed by that too. I've let it go
too long. I'm feeling like I just won't be able to do it. I'm worried
I'll be working until the day I die. <br />
<br />
Anyhow, I've got a lot on my mind. I need to go for a run to help deal
with some of this stress. The problem is I'm not feeling well enough to
get out there and run. <br />
<br />
I would say I have no idea what's wrong with me, but if I just relax and
think about it, I know what's going on. I've got too much stress in my
head right now. The retirement planning, trying to get back on track
with my weight loss, the lack of fitness/running for most of this past
month, canning tomatoes today, the new bed frame, ... The list goes on
and on. <br />
<br />
As for the fitness or lack there of over the past month. I can't change
what's past. I can only change from here forward. So I need to put
that out of my mind until it's time to kick my butt out the door and go
for a run. It's that simple. <br />
<br />
Retirement planning? I've got a basic plan in place already. I just
need to take the 10% off my first cheque and put it away. I'm leaning
towards a GIC, but I still have a week to decide. <br />
<br />
Tomatoes? I've been canning for weeks. Why is this batch overwhelming
me? I just don't get it. I'm thinking it's other stuff going on in the
background. <br />
<br />
As for the bed frame, etc, that's Lee mostly. He just needs me to help
with a few things - moving mattresses, etc. He's doing most of the
work, and all of the planning for it. So as far as I'm concerned, no
problems there. <br />
<br />
Ahhh. That's a little better. Now I need to figure out what I want for breakfast.
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2641366534178599670.post-3877676218442686662012-07-22T08:33:00.001-07:002012-07-22T08:33:39.623-07:00Yesterday was a great day. We went to Crosby ND for the Thresherman's
Day's celebration. They had a parade. We figured small town, maybe
20minues or so. Wrong. It was mainly a parade of the old farm
equipment. We're talking really REALLY old. Like the first tractors
that were out there. And they just kept starting them up and parading
down the route. 2 hours worth of tractors. Wow. It was amazing. <br />
<br />
I forgot my camera. Believe me, I won't do that again. <br />
<br />
We all got a little too much sun, and ended up coming home right after
and resting. No one is red today, but we sure were yesterday. <br />
<br />
This morning, I got up and got out the door for my run. I'm sitting out
on the deck cooling off. Lee is steam cleaning the carpet in the
livingroom. As soon as he's done, I'm going to bath and we are going to
go for brunch. It's been months since we did that. I'm sure hoping
it's not a complete let down again. <br />
<br />
Other than that, I think I've got lots to do inside today.
Reorganization of stuff. Laundry. And generally getting ready for my
first day at work tomorrow. I can't wait.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2641366534178599670.post-46958986930256382392012-07-20T20:30:00.002-07:002012-07-20T20:30:49.250-07:00Blackberry and Raspberry Dessert Toppings - recipe links and picturesI found a great deal at the co-op tonight, and cooked up a big batch of each of these. The recipes can be found at: <br />
<br />
Blackberry Dessert Topping <br />
<span class="journal_edit"><a href="http://recipes.sparkpeople.com/recipe-detail.asp?recipe=2179661&ff=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">recipes.sparkpeople.com/recipe-detai<br />l.asp?recipe=2179661&ff=1 </a></span> <br />
<br />
Raspberry Dessert Topping <br />
<span class="journal_edit"><a href="http://recipes.sparkpeople.com/recipe-detail.asp?recipe=2179668&ff=1" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">recipes.sparkpeople.com/recipe-detai<br />l.asp?recipe=2179668&ff=1 </a></span> <br />
<br />
The Blackberries made up 4.7 - 500ml jars, and the raspberries made up 4
- 500ml jars. The blackberry sauce is so nice, but the raspberry sauce
is a little too sweet. I didn't want to add molasses to it, as it will
make it so dark, but maybe I should have. <br />
<br />
Anyhow, just thought I'd share the recipes. I was just in the kitchen tossing them together, and they came out great. <br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos-ak.sparkpeople.com/nw/4/6/l461047763.jpg" />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2641366534178599670.post-75443423968573980082012-07-19T17:39:00.001-07:002012-07-19T19:58:25.022-07:00I'm a little concerned tonight. I haven't been able to go running in the last two days - pulled muscles in my legs - and tonight I just can't stand this town. This isn't good. <br />
<br />
Lee got home from work too tired to do anything tonight. I'm beyond sick of staying in. I'm even willing to go out for supper alone if I have to, but I don't even know where to go. The so called steaks in town suck - I'd rather chew on my shoe. I don't need the calories from a gluten free pizza. Heck, I don't need the expense either. <br />
<br />
So what am I gonna do? Sitting here is just pissing me off. Don't know where to go or what to do. Maybe it's time for me to just give in n go running tonight. It's still do brutally hot though. I just don't know what to do, but this isn't working. <br />
<br />
I know. I need to eat. No garbage. Actual food. I haven't eaten today. Well, I had breakfast. Then I munched on raisin bread and popcorn. Funny how my mind goes wonky when I don't eat right. But what am I gonna eat?<br />
<br />
*********UPDATE************<br />
<br />
Lee came outside to see what was wrong with me not long after I posted that. I told him I was having stress issues. Mostly from not eating well today. And the heat. He suggested we go get groceries. We needed to anyway.<br />
<br />
It was a nice short trip. On the way home we picked up iced coffees. I know. I've been on this cleanse for so long now. Well, I only got in 4-5 mouthfuls and I got dizzy. The room was spinning, and I felt nauseated. So much for being able to enjoy that treat. <br />
<br />
I guess that sugar cleanse really had some major effects on me after all. wow. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2641366534178599670.post-64232930084405119072012-07-17T07:39:00.001-07:002012-07-17T07:39:48.659-07:00Yesterday I did the drug/alcohol/fitness testing for my new job. I knew
it wouldn't be a problem. My one leg has a sore muscle today - some of
the stuff they are doing really didn't make any sense. Anyhow, it's
done. They told me it will take about 2-3 hours to get the information
back to my employer. Since it took so long yesterday, I'm assuming
they'll know by noon today. It took so long because I am drinking so
much water. I had to wait 2 hours for the water to flush out of my
system. <br />
<br />
Anyhow, I'm expecting a call today with a start date fairly soon. <br />
<br />
Other than that, I lost another pound. It was down yesterday, and still
down this morning. So I recorded it today. I'm down to 225lbs. It's
not showing up on my feed, so I contacted tech support to find out why.
Hopefully they can fix that. <br />
<br />
Even though my leg is a little sore, I am still considering a run this
morning. I'm trying to decide if it'll help or hurt. I don't do hurt.
Mind you, I can always try. If it hurts, stop. If not, I can keep
going. <br />
<br />
Maybe that's what I'll do. Seeing as once I start my new job, I won't
have the opportunity to go after waking up, relaxing, eating, and taking
some me time. <br />
<br />
That's another thing. I'll have to figure out how to do this. How to
get my fitness in with the new work hours. I'm kind of leaning towards a
lunch time run, but the heat, and no shower available .... <br />
<br />
I have also discovered something else about me in the last few days. I
have another mountain to climb. Not just weight loss. Financial. I
HATE being stuck where I am now. No money. No savings. No credit. I
need to fix this. I need to sit down and define exactly what I want in
the end. Then a plan to get there. <br />
<br />
So that's my day I guess. Running. Then looking at my financial
mountain I should start to climb. I should also clean the kitchen.
It's still a bit of a mess from making the cherry pie last night.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2641366534178599670.post-7682781016795204802012-07-16T19:44:00.000-07:002012-07-16T19:44:11.195-07:00Home Made Gluten Free Cherry Pie - with Pics and recipesTried my hand at making a home made cherry pie. I pitted the fresh
cherries myself. Used Brown Rice syrup instead sugar. And a Gluten
Free Pie crust. I hope the crust holds up when I try to serve it.
Gluten free flours are so difficult to work with. <br />
<br />
But it sure looks good. <br />
<br />
<img src="http://photos-ak.sparkpeople.com/nw/3/6/l369434003.jpg" /> <br />
<br />
Gluten-Free Pie and Tart Crust Recipe for Sweet or Savory Fillings <br />
<br />
This buttery, tender gluten-free pie crust is akin to shortbread. It can
be used for all types of pies or for savory tart and quiche fillings. A
tart pan with a removable bottom makes shaping the pie crust and
cutting pies much easier. <br />
<br />
Prep Time: 20 minutes Total Time: 20 minutes <br />
<br />
Ingredients: <br />
• 1 cup superfine brown rice flour (see tips) <br />
• 1/2 cup arrowroot starch OR cornstarch <br />
• 1/4 cup amaranth flour <br />
• 1/4 cup white rice flour <br />
• 1 tablespoon cane sugar (OMIT sugar if making a savory filling) I left this out <br />
• 1/4 teaspoon xanthan gum OR guar gum <br />
• 1/4 teaspoon salt <br />
• 1 tablespoon ice water <br />
• 1 large, lightly beaten egg <br />
• 12 tablespoons cold, cubed butter <br />
• Correction - 12 tablespoons of butter equal 1 and 1/2 sticks of butter OR 3/4 cup of butter <br />
<br />
Preparation: <br />
Food Processor Method: <br />
1. Measure dry ingredients into a large mixing bowl. Use a large whisk to thoroughly blend ingredients. <br />
2. Pour the dry ingredients into a food processor bowl, fitted with a metal blade. <br />
3. Add the cold butter cubes and pulse until the butter cubes are
reduced to the size of peas and the mixture looks like coarse, dry
crumbs. <br />
4. Add the lightly beaten egg and pulse just until egg is incorporated into the flour-butter mix. <br />
5. Add 1 tablespoon of ice water and pulse several times. Remove the
processor lid and squeeze a small amount of the dough in your hand. If
it holds together don't add more water. If the dough is too crumbly and
dry, add 1/4 teaspoon additional ice water and pulse several more times.
Check the consistency of the dough again. If the dough holds together
and you can form a ball don't add more water. Adding too much water will
make the dough sticky and harder to roll out and shape. <br />
6. Scrape the dough, which will look crumbly, on a clean, gluten free
work surface covered with waxed paper. Gather the crumbly dough into a
ball. Flatten to a large disk shape. Wrap in waxed paper and refrigerate
for at least one hour before rolling out the dough. At this stage, the
dough can be frozen. Place wax paper wrapped dough in a freezer bag,
label and freeze for future use. <br />
7. To Roll Dough: Remove dough from refrigerator and place dough between
two sheets of waxed paper. Let dough sit just until it's soft enough to
roll. When workable, roll lighlty from the center outward, working to
make a circle about 10-inches in diameter and about 1/8-inch thick. If
the dough should get too warm and sticky, place it in the freezer for
several minutes and then continue rolling it. <br />
8. Peel top sheet of wax paper from the dough and carefully flip the
dough, on the remaining sheet of waxed paper, over pie plate. Gently
peel the waxed paper from the dough. <br />
9. Gently press the dough into the pie plate. <br />
10. Trim edges with knife and crimp edge with a fork or using your favorite method. <br />
11. Pie crust is ready to fill or parbake (partially bake) as desired. <br />
12. To parbake the crust, preheat oven to 350 degrees. Use a fork to
pierce the crust- this will prevent the crust from bubbling up while
baking. Or, line the dough with parchment paper and fill the plate with
dry beans or pie weights. Bake the crust for about 15 minutes, or until
lightly golden. <br />
<br />
<br />
Tips: <br />
<br />
Superfine brown rice flour is powdery, unlike some brown rice flours
which are more coarsely ground and gritty. If you can't find superfine
brown rice flour, try grinding regular brown rice flour in a coffee bean
grinder just until it is a finer consistency. <br />
<br />
Roll out leftover dough scraps, butter and sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar for an old-fashioned treat. <br />
<br />
Yield: 1- 10" pie crust with leftover dough for cinnamon sugar strips or 2- 8" pie crusts. <br />
<br />
<br />
Cherry Pie Filling <br />
Prep Time: 25 Minutes <br />
Cook Time: 15 Minutes Ready In: 40 Minutes <br />
Servings: 6 <br />
<br />
"When sour cherries are in season, why not whip up your own fresh cherry pie filling? It's easy and takes just 3 ingredients." <br />
<br />
INGREDIENTS: <br />
4 cups pitted tart red cherries <br />
1 cup brown rice syrup <br />
1/4 cup cornstarch <br />
<br />
DIRECTIONS: <br />
1. Place cherries into a saucepan over medium heat, and cover the pan;
heat cherries until they release their juice and come to a simmer, 10 to
15 minutes. Stir often. <br />
2. In a bowl, whisk the sugar with cornstarch until smooth; pour the
mixture into the hot cherries and juice, and thoroughly combine. Return
to low heat, bring to a simmer, and cook until the filling has
thickened, about 2 minutes; remove from heat, let cool, and use as pie
filling. <br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0