For almost the last three months, I have been very sick. I have bounced from doctor to doctor, test to test, and Monday, I got an answer. I was diagnosed with celiac disease and lymphocytic colitis (as a result of the celiac going untreated).
For those of you that don't know, celiac disease, as defined by the Mayo Clinic is:
a digestive condition triggered by consumption of the protein gluten, which is found in bread, pasta, cookies, pizza crust and many other foods containing wheat, barley or rye. If you have celiac disease and eat foods containing gluten, an immune reaction occurs in your small intestine, causing damage to the surface of your small intestine and an inability to absorb certain nutrients.
Eventually, the decreased absorption of nutrients (malabsorption) that occurs with celiac disease can cause vitamin deficiencies that deprive your brain, peripheral nervous system, bones, liver and other organs of vital nourishment. This can lead to other illnesses and stunted growth in children.
No treatment can cure celiac disease.
That last sentence scared the crap out of me...NO TREATMENT CAN CURE CELIAC DISEASE.
BUT...I can effectively manage it by changing to a gluten free diet. If you know me, you know that I am a cake, cookie, junk food addict...hearing this was almost like a death sentence...until I thought about it. And what I thought was this:
1. No more junky foods - BONUS!
2. No more being sick every time I eat - BONUS!
3. My overall health will be amazing - BONUS!
4. I get to go on a "scavenger hunt" at the grocery store - BONUS!
5. I get to change myself and my way of eating and depending on foods PERMANENTLY - DOUBLE BONUS!
So far, it has been a challenge to my taste buds to eat nothing with gluten and it has been a challenge to my brain to figure out exactly what I can and can't have. It will get easier, I know...but this week has been overwhelming to say the least.
That all being said, I truly have an amazing family and some rockin' friends. After the diagnosis, my hubby went to the grocery store and bought enough gluten free foods to get me through the week. He even got the store manager to get him the list of gluten free products in the store so I could have choices. Then, my sister in law brought me some wonderful KIND bars that are both gluten free and delicious...To top those two off, my amazing friend, Travis, sent me a list of websites that he had found, along with some information on different grocery stores. I am truly blessed!
I end with this thought...when my going gets tough, I really have some pretty awesome people in my life that are willing to go the extra mile and help me out. For that, I am truly grateful.
Special thanks to these people: Maria, Bobby, Mom, Travis, Donna, Kelly, Billie, and Missy...you guys made my week SO much easier and I love you!
I'll post again in a few days and let you know how it's going. If you or someone you know has celiac disease, give them this blog so we can connect. Thanks!
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Saturday, September 4, 2010
None needed...
Sometimes, there are days that make you feel all warm and fuzzy inside...today was one of those days.
See, I've had a really rough two weeks and today healed all of that. I got to spend some time with the most wonderful parents in the world...I even got kisses from my amazing pawpaw while I was there. I also got to spend some time with the most amazing mother in law in the world...AND I got to see my brother and his family and spend some time with them....
In my old (ha ha) age, I am coming to the realization that those around me are what matters. It matters not what clothes I wear, how big my house is, or what car I drive...what matters is that I have people in my life who love me and who I love back!
As I was watching the news the other day, I saw a mom who had lost her daughter at a very young age...man, I thought my life was hard...I can't imagine what she was feeling!
Anyway, just so I'm not all gloomy...here's some good stuff...
I have a 1st and 3rd grader!!!!! OMGoodness!!!!! When did that happen??????????????????
Jenna, my 1st grader, has my best bud from growing up as her teacher and absolutely LOVES her class! Bryson has a wonderful teacher that is allowing him to use his imagination and his love for science in class and he LOVES it!
If I've said it once, I've said it a million times, I couldn't have asked for better children...I have never known love like this and am so blessed that I do now.
One last thought...I was very sick this week and my mom said to me, "One day, you'll realize that you never stop wanting to fix it for your kids." Hearing her say that made me cry like a baby and want to crawl in her lap again...I guess you're never too old to want your mom and you're never too old to want to "fix" what's wrong with your children...
Sometimes, I take a deep breath and realize that God has given me more than I deserve and I am SO grateful!
Until next time, take care of yourself and those you love!
See, I've had a really rough two weeks and today healed all of that. I got to spend some time with the most wonderful parents in the world...I even got kisses from my amazing pawpaw while I was there. I also got to spend some time with the most amazing mother in law in the world...AND I got to see my brother and his family and spend some time with them....
In my old (ha ha) age, I am coming to the realization that those around me are what matters. It matters not what clothes I wear, how big my house is, or what car I drive...what matters is that I have people in my life who love me and who I love back!
As I was watching the news the other day, I saw a mom who had lost her daughter at a very young age...man, I thought my life was hard...I can't imagine what she was feeling!
Anyway, just so I'm not all gloomy...here's some good stuff...
I have a 1st and 3rd grader!!!!! OMGoodness!!!!! When did that happen??????????????????
Jenna, my 1st grader, has my best bud from growing up as her teacher and absolutely LOVES her class! Bryson has a wonderful teacher that is allowing him to use his imagination and his love for science in class and he LOVES it!
If I've said it once, I've said it a million times, I couldn't have asked for better children...I have never known love like this and am so blessed that I do now.
One last thought...I was very sick this week and my mom said to me, "One day, you'll realize that you never stop wanting to fix it for your kids." Hearing her say that made me cry like a baby and want to crawl in her lap again...I guess you're never too old to want your mom and you're never too old to want to "fix" what's wrong with your children...
Sometimes, I take a deep breath and realize that God has given me more than I deserve and I am SO grateful!
Until next time, take care of yourself and those you love!
Monday, July 12, 2010
Ahhhhhh...30 is a stone's throw away...
I have never been one to obsess about my age...I've always thought wrinkles were beautiful and old hands meant that you had learned valuable lessons. That said, over the last month or so, I have been having a difficult time coming to grips with the fact that I will be thirty in September. 30!!!!! It's like a new page in my life that I'm just not quite ready to read. Now, before you judge me or say, "30s not old! Wait till you get my age!" let me explain a few things.
1. I had my children at a young age and part of me LOVES that I am only going to be 42 when my youngest graduates high school. I always wanted to be done having kids by the time I was 30...it was my self imposed deadline. That said, lately, I have had a strong desire to procreate again and turning 30 means I can't (unless God chooses differently and my hubby has a minor reversal surgery...it ain't happening). Thus, I'm a little sad about that deadline that I gave myself!
2. There is something about putting a "3" in front of your age as opposed to a "2." If you know what I'm talking about, let me hear an "amen!" In society, when you have a "2" in front, you are still young, not considered quite mature yet so you can still be a little crazy...but just a little. When you have a "3" in front, all of a sudden, you are expected to be a "grown up..." whatever that word means, I haven't a clue. Therefore, I am conflicted...I will have a "3" in front, but I'm not ready to be a "grown-up!" It's apparently going to be a battle of the two forces!
3. Though I do realize that on my birthday, when I wake up, I will only be one day older than I was when I went to sleep, it's the whole year that has passed between 29 and 30...a whole year of happiness and sorrow...learning and well, being stupid...growing and shrinking...and I don't feel that I accomplished enough in that year. So, I think I'll give myself another year of being 29...just don't tell the DMV, they probably won't like it.
I also want to include the things that I am grateful for as I approach...(gulp)...30...and for these things, I remind myself that 30 is going to be TOTALLY worth it:
1. I have an amazing little family...one boy, one girl, and hubby...we fit together like the perfect American dream. I am blessed every day with my son's "old soul" and my daughter's pure zest for life...my hubby provides me with continual laughter and for those things I am grateful...I look forward to what another year with my family will bring.
2. I realize that with age, comes wisdom. The wisdom to know the things that can and can not be changed. With wisdom comes power...and I think I like that word...power...yeah...so, instead of being older, I'm going to call myself more powerful...there, that sounds much better. Because I am more powerful, I am grateful!
3. I am successful...I have a job that I love, a family that I adore, the greatest parents and papaw, and friends that I would give one of my toes for (see previous blog if you want to know which toe)! I think that as 30 approaches, I have become more in love with my life and those that surround me...for that, I think 30 is going to be better...
4. My hubby says I don't really have to be a "grown up." I just have to pretend to be one every now and then...that makes me grateful...MY hubby loves that there's a big kid inside of me...he's one too! ;)
So, for the next couple months, I'm really going to try to focus on all the things that will make 30 so much better than 29!
Until next time, be blessed in YOUR life...LOVE those around you...and get a little CRAZY sometimes! Muah!
1. I had my children at a young age and part of me LOVES that I am only going to be 42 when my youngest graduates high school. I always wanted to be done having kids by the time I was 30...it was my self imposed deadline. That said, lately, I have had a strong desire to procreate again and turning 30 means I can't (unless God chooses differently and my hubby has a minor reversal surgery...it ain't happening). Thus, I'm a little sad about that deadline that I gave myself!
2. There is something about putting a "3" in front of your age as opposed to a "2." If you know what I'm talking about, let me hear an "amen!" In society, when you have a "2" in front, you are still young, not considered quite mature yet so you can still be a little crazy...but just a little. When you have a "3" in front, all of a sudden, you are expected to be a "grown up..." whatever that word means, I haven't a clue. Therefore, I am conflicted...I will have a "3" in front, but I'm not ready to be a "grown-up!" It's apparently going to be a battle of the two forces!
3. Though I do realize that on my birthday, when I wake up, I will only be one day older than I was when I went to sleep, it's the whole year that has passed between 29 and 30...a whole year of happiness and sorrow...learning and well, being stupid...growing and shrinking...and I don't feel that I accomplished enough in that year. So, I think I'll give myself another year of being 29...just don't tell the DMV, they probably won't like it.
I also want to include the things that I am grateful for as I approach...(gulp)...30...and for these things, I remind myself that 30 is going to be TOTALLY worth it:
1. I have an amazing little family...one boy, one girl, and hubby...we fit together like the perfect American dream. I am blessed every day with my son's "old soul" and my daughter's pure zest for life...my hubby provides me with continual laughter and for those things I am grateful...I look forward to what another year with my family will bring.
2. I realize that with age, comes wisdom. The wisdom to know the things that can and can not be changed. With wisdom comes power...and I think I like that word...power...yeah...so, instead of being older, I'm going to call myself more powerful...there, that sounds much better. Because I am more powerful, I am grateful!
3. I am successful...I have a job that I love, a family that I adore, the greatest parents and papaw, and friends that I would give one of my toes for (see previous blog if you want to know which toe)! I think that as 30 approaches, I have become more in love with my life and those that surround me...for that, I think 30 is going to be better...
4. My hubby says I don't really have to be a "grown up." I just have to pretend to be one every now and then...that makes me grateful...MY hubby loves that there's a big kid inside of me...he's one too! ;)
So, for the next couple months, I'm really going to try to focus on all the things that will make 30 so much better than 29!
Until next time, be blessed in YOUR life...LOVE those around you...and get a little CRAZY sometimes! Muah!
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
Whew!!!!
WOW! What an interesting past few weeks I have had!
Monday, not only was I personally attacked with words, my character was demeaned. I struggled badly with words that were not even spoken but written. I kept asking myself what I had done to deserve such nasty remarks. Initially, I had a just as nasty reply typed...but something told me not to send it. Something told me to rise above, be an adult, and handle it differently. Something made me behave...and for that, I am grateful. So, instead of replying back with a defensive and touchy message, I simply told the truth in a very nice and calm manner. Even though I knew I had done the right thing, it wasn't until I came home and had a letter in the mailbox that I truly believed it. In my mailbox was one of the kindest most thoughtful letters I had ever read and for that, I am thankful. I can't tell you how much reading the words in that note brightened my spirit. Fast forward to today, I received another not so nice message from the same person...AND I came home and there was another message in my mailbox, this time a card...A card that I will cherish for the rest of my life. Simply put, the sender was letting me know that he believed in me and that I can do anything I put my mind to!
Those notes came from my husband's grandfather, John, and his wife, Maria. I am SO blessed to have people in my life like them. I am SO blessed to have people in my life that know who I really am...people that don't judge me...people that believe in me...people that know my intentions are good...and people that love me and I love in return.
We are all let down by those around us...it's what we do with the disappointment or anger that makes us who we are. this week, I learned some VERY valuable lessons...
Don't throw stones because no one is without sin.
Let God handle the "stuff."
Family can be AMAZING...and family can hurt you.
When you are attacked, the truth and kindness are your best defenses.
Thank you John and Maria for reminding me who I am. Thank you for being there and thank you for supporting me.
I also need to add that through the torture of this person's words, my parents and my husband have been AMAZING! My dad is the strongest man I know...he has faced cancer twice, never complained, and kicked cancer's butt! He helps keep me grounded and I could not ask for a better father. My mom is the greatest woman I know...she has been there for me in so many ways and not just this week...She taught me how to be a good mom, and she taught me how to be a strong, courageous woman. And Bobby, my sometimes painfully annoying but absolutely wonderful hubby, he has been by my side in all of this...coming to me defense and protecting me from harm...for that, I am grateful.
Love to all!
Monday, not only was I personally attacked with words, my character was demeaned. I struggled badly with words that were not even spoken but written. I kept asking myself what I had done to deserve such nasty remarks. Initially, I had a just as nasty reply typed...but something told me not to send it. Something told me to rise above, be an adult, and handle it differently. Something made me behave...and for that, I am grateful. So, instead of replying back with a defensive and touchy message, I simply told the truth in a very nice and calm manner. Even though I knew I had done the right thing, it wasn't until I came home and had a letter in the mailbox that I truly believed it. In my mailbox was one of the kindest most thoughtful letters I had ever read and for that, I am thankful. I can't tell you how much reading the words in that note brightened my spirit. Fast forward to today, I received another not so nice message from the same person...AND I came home and there was another message in my mailbox, this time a card...A card that I will cherish for the rest of my life. Simply put, the sender was letting me know that he believed in me and that I can do anything I put my mind to!
Those notes came from my husband's grandfather, John, and his wife, Maria. I am SO blessed to have people in my life like them. I am SO blessed to have people in my life that know who I really am...people that don't judge me...people that believe in me...people that know my intentions are good...and people that love me and I love in return.
We are all let down by those around us...it's what we do with the disappointment or anger that makes us who we are. this week, I learned some VERY valuable lessons...
Don't throw stones because no one is without sin.
Let God handle the "stuff."
Family can be AMAZING...and family can hurt you.
When you are attacked, the truth and kindness are your best defenses.
Thank you John and Maria for reminding me who I am. Thank you for being there and thank you for supporting me.
I also need to add that through the torture of this person's words, my parents and my husband have been AMAZING! My dad is the strongest man I know...he has faced cancer twice, never complained, and kicked cancer's butt! He helps keep me grounded and I could not ask for a better father. My mom is the greatest woman I know...she has been there for me in so many ways and not just this week...She taught me how to be a good mom, and she taught me how to be a strong, courageous woman. And Bobby, my sometimes painfully annoying but absolutely wonderful hubby, he has been by my side in all of this...coming to me defense and protecting me from harm...for that, I am grateful.
Love to all!
Friday, April 23, 2010
I'm just sayin...
I truly have the greatest friends in the world. Last night, I vented on my blog and a very special friend came to my rescue and gave me hope. For that, I am thankful.
You know, I think people are put in your life sometimes to remind you that the world is good and kind...that there is hope for the next generation...that you CAN do it...and that friendship and love are THE most powerful forces in the world. I love that my life is complete and full...I cherish (or at least try to) every moment.
Today, I say thank you to that special friend that gave me hope last night. I hope everyone has a friend like that!
Have a blessed day!
You know, I think people are put in your life sometimes to remind you that the world is good and kind...that there is hope for the next generation...that you CAN do it...and that friendship and love are THE most powerful forces in the world. I love that my life is complete and full...I cherish (or at least try to) every moment.
Today, I say thank you to that special friend that gave me hope last night. I hope everyone has a friend like that!
Have a blessed day!
Thursday, April 22, 2010
Frustrated
I need to vent a little...sorry!
Ok, so I have committed to walk in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer. I've been training for the walk for three weeks and that part is easy. I have loved every mile I've walked and have been really pushing myself to get fit for the walk.
The frustrating part is that I have raised $0 of the $1800 I need to be able to walk. I really hate asking people for money, but this is for a cause, and a really important one at that! Ok, that's my vent.
SO, everything else in my life is going pretty good. I'm plugging away at the job. My kids are good (other than stupid allergies). And life, life is what you make it, right?
I got an email from a colleague of mine today and it really hit home. I try, on a daily, sometimes hourly, basis to really be thankful and content with what I have been blessed with. Sometimes, that works, sometimes it doesn't. Anyway, the email was about a 30 something year old man who has the functioning ability of a 7 year old. He thought God lived under his bed and his sister reflected on how he lives his life with complete and utter happiness. He doesn't know how to be jealous, discontent or even angry really. I was amazed by not only the man but his sister's reflections that her brother was closer to God than she was...because God was his friend that lived under his bed and he could talk to him any time he wanted to. The message was powerful and I think I'll copy and paste it on my blog soon.
I'll leave you with one thought...I'm very tired, so I'll write more later...anyway, the thought is this...
What in your life makes you truly happy? Is it your kids, your dog, your spouse? NO matter what it is, let that happiness consume you for a day and see how wonderful that day is! If we can all learn to live like the 30 something year old man in that email, this world will be a MUCH happier place!
Take care of yourself and others!
Ok, so I have committed to walk in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer. I've been training for the walk for three weeks and that part is easy. I have loved every mile I've walked and have been really pushing myself to get fit for the walk.
The frustrating part is that I have raised $0 of the $1800 I need to be able to walk. I really hate asking people for money, but this is for a cause, and a really important one at that! Ok, that's my vent.
SO, everything else in my life is going pretty good. I'm plugging away at the job. My kids are good (other than stupid allergies). And life, life is what you make it, right?
I got an email from a colleague of mine today and it really hit home. I try, on a daily, sometimes hourly, basis to really be thankful and content with what I have been blessed with. Sometimes, that works, sometimes it doesn't. Anyway, the email was about a 30 something year old man who has the functioning ability of a 7 year old. He thought God lived under his bed and his sister reflected on how he lives his life with complete and utter happiness. He doesn't know how to be jealous, discontent or even angry really. I was amazed by not only the man but his sister's reflections that her brother was closer to God than she was...because God was his friend that lived under his bed and he could talk to him any time he wanted to. The message was powerful and I think I'll copy and paste it on my blog soon.
I'll leave you with one thought...I'm very tired, so I'll write more later...anyway, the thought is this...
What in your life makes you truly happy? Is it your kids, your dog, your spouse? NO matter what it is, let that happiness consume you for a day and see how wonderful that day is! If we can all learn to live like the 30 something year old man in that email, this world will be a MUCH happier place!
Take care of yourself and others!
Sunday, April 11, 2010
What I've learned...
As I sit here on another BEAUTIFUL Carolina Spring day, I am reflective of the things I've learned since becoming an adult...wait, am I an adult yet? I'm still only 29...so.....maybe not...maybe the things I've learned since I'm not a teenager anymore. ;)
As most of you know, I started training for the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer. I have done a lot of walking in the first 14 days, and a lot of thinking too...
A friend of mine posted on her Facebook a letter to herself, looking back as though she were sending it to the 17 year old she was...What a great idea, I thought! So, here is my letter to the 17 year old version of myself....
Things I have learned about life, love, and family:
I know that what you are feeling right now is utter turmoil: you can't stand your parents, you "love" your boyfriend, and you think everyone is against you. The truth is, your parents adore you (they just want you to make the right choices), your boyfriend will leave you (and you will one day know real, honest, true love), and everyone is FOR you.
Take time to enjoy these years, when you are 30, errr 29, you will wish you had...enjoy the freedom of few responsibilities because when the real world knocks at your door, you will, on occasion, pray for that time back.
Be nice to your parents...they will one day be your rock, and you will wish that those hurtful words and actions never happened. They support you and always will...they will save you from yourself later in life, and you will understand one day, why your mother was always right! Love them, cherish them, and tell them how much they mean to you...every day.
Stay in school...no amount of money you will get from working like you do will EVER be more important than getting your education. Besides, you are just going to blow that money and one day wish you hadn't.
Hold on to the friends you love the most...there is nothing like having a childhood friend to grow old with...Sure, you will make new friends and some of them will be great, but as you grow in life, you will want that Telly Beth to still be around...she loves you (even when you fight over boys, she still loves you) and knows you better than you know yourself...Cherish that!
Be open to finding love in the strangest places...that's where you will find your soulmate. And don't be surprised when it's someone totally unexpected. And when you find it, hold on to it for dear life...It will be hard, really, really hard at times, but it will all be worth it...HE will be worth it.
Love your in-laws! They will help you grow and flourish and they are the connection to your soulmate...
Prepare yourself for motherhood...eat well, exercise more, and pray. Pray like you've never prayed before. Being a mom is very hard and trying...but oh, is it worth it!
Most importantly, take care of yourself...try to put yourself first sometimes...I know that sounds weird because you are doing that now, but trust me, do more of it later.
Lastly, don't be afraid to push yourself to the limits...you are strong, you are brave, you are loving...you CAN do everything you never thought you could...Have faith in YOU! God will see you through it, and you WILL be amazed!
Good luck, babes!
Ok, just wanted to get that out and see what it would say...ha ha!
Update on my Avon Walk:
So far, I have raised ZERO funds...I have 199 days to raise $1800 or I can't walk. If you are reading this and have a few extra dollars, PLEASE donate...just ask me how!
The training part hasn't been as hard as I thought it would be. The hardest part is making time for it but in 14 days, I've walked 28 miles so I am, to say the least, quite proud of myself. I'll keep you updated on my progress and may even have to "vent" a few times by blogging my soreness away (oh yeah, that's the other part...my body hurts like hell some days!).
Until next time...take care of yourself and your loved ones!
As most of you know, I started training for the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer. I have done a lot of walking in the first 14 days, and a lot of thinking too...
A friend of mine posted on her Facebook a letter to herself, looking back as though she were sending it to the 17 year old she was...What a great idea, I thought! So, here is my letter to the 17 year old version of myself....
Things I have learned about life, love, and family:
I know that what you are feeling right now is utter turmoil: you can't stand your parents, you "love" your boyfriend, and you think everyone is against you. The truth is, your parents adore you (they just want you to make the right choices), your boyfriend will leave you (and you will one day know real, honest, true love), and everyone is FOR you.
Take time to enjoy these years, when you are 30, errr 29, you will wish you had...enjoy the freedom of few responsibilities because when the real world knocks at your door, you will, on occasion, pray for that time back.
Be nice to your parents...they will one day be your rock, and you will wish that those hurtful words and actions never happened. They support you and always will...they will save you from yourself later in life, and you will understand one day, why your mother was always right! Love them, cherish them, and tell them how much they mean to you...every day.
Stay in school...no amount of money you will get from working like you do will EVER be more important than getting your education. Besides, you are just going to blow that money and one day wish you hadn't.
Hold on to the friends you love the most...there is nothing like having a childhood friend to grow old with...Sure, you will make new friends and some of them will be great, but as you grow in life, you will want that Telly Beth to still be around...she loves you (even when you fight over boys, she still loves you) and knows you better than you know yourself...Cherish that!
Be open to finding love in the strangest places...that's where you will find your soulmate. And don't be surprised when it's someone totally unexpected. And when you find it, hold on to it for dear life...It will be hard, really, really hard at times, but it will all be worth it...HE will be worth it.
Love your in-laws! They will help you grow and flourish and they are the connection to your soulmate...
Prepare yourself for motherhood...eat well, exercise more, and pray. Pray like you've never prayed before. Being a mom is very hard and trying...but oh, is it worth it!
Most importantly, take care of yourself...try to put yourself first sometimes...I know that sounds weird because you are doing that now, but trust me, do more of it later.
Lastly, don't be afraid to push yourself to the limits...you are strong, you are brave, you are loving...you CAN do everything you never thought you could...Have faith in YOU! God will see you through it, and you WILL be amazed!
Good luck, babes!
Ok, just wanted to get that out and see what it would say...ha ha!
Update on my Avon Walk:
So far, I have raised ZERO funds...I have 199 days to raise $1800 or I can't walk. If you are reading this and have a few extra dollars, PLEASE donate...just ask me how!
The training part hasn't been as hard as I thought it would be. The hardest part is making time for it but in 14 days, I've walked 28 miles so I am, to say the least, quite proud of myself. I'll keep you updated on my progress and may even have to "vent" a few times by blogging my soreness away (oh yeah, that's the other part...my body hurts like hell some days!).
Until next time...take care of yourself and your loved ones!
Friday, March 26, 2010
I can't believe I'm going to do this...
Some of you may already know that I am turning the big 3-0 this year. In honor of this milestone, I have gifted myself something that I believe is going to change my life...I registered to walk in the Avon Walk for Breast Cancer! If you know me, you know that this is something completely outside my realm of comfort. I have never done anything like this but I issued a challenge to myself...and if you know me, you know I love a challenge!
There are many reasons why I wanted to do this walk, but the most important one is that I want to be a part of finding a cure for breast cancer. I have been touched by the word cancer...My father is now in remission from cancer, I have a friend who's little girl is in remission from cancer, and another friend who has had a double mastectomy because of breast cancer.
Now, you may think I'm crazy...I will be walking 39.3 miles in two days, sleeping in a tent, getting blisters on my feet, and being away from my kids...but, I say to you, if the $1800+ that I raise for breast cancer patients helps to save one life, isn't it worth it? I think so...
Now, instead of just blogging about my kids and life in general, you'll get to follow me as I raise money, train (which means a whole bunch of walking), and one of the best parts...LOSE WEIGHT! Yes, there, I said it! My training module is 20 weeks and on average, I'll be walking an average of 25 miles a week so the weight loss is unavoidable and a big BONUS!
Anyway, pray for me as I do this. I have never been one to push myself this hard and I really want to...not just for me, but for all the men and women who have been touched by this disease. I have something to prove...and darn it, I'm gonna do it!
If you are interested in donating to my fundraising efforts, just post a comment with your contact information or call/email me if you know me.
Thanks for everything! Have a glorious weekend!
There are many reasons why I wanted to do this walk, but the most important one is that I want to be a part of finding a cure for breast cancer. I have been touched by the word cancer...My father is now in remission from cancer, I have a friend who's little girl is in remission from cancer, and another friend who has had a double mastectomy because of breast cancer.
Now, you may think I'm crazy...I will be walking 39.3 miles in two days, sleeping in a tent, getting blisters on my feet, and being away from my kids...but, I say to you, if the $1800+ that I raise for breast cancer patients helps to save one life, isn't it worth it? I think so...
Now, instead of just blogging about my kids and life in general, you'll get to follow me as I raise money, train (which means a whole bunch of walking), and one of the best parts...LOSE WEIGHT! Yes, there, I said it! My training module is 20 weeks and on average, I'll be walking an average of 25 miles a week so the weight loss is unavoidable and a big BONUS!
Anyway, pray for me as I do this. I have never been one to push myself this hard and I really want to...not just for me, but for all the men and women who have been touched by this disease. I have something to prove...and darn it, I'm gonna do it!
If you are interested in donating to my fundraising efforts, just post a comment with your contact information or call/email me if you know me.
Thanks for everything! Have a glorious weekend!
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Long time, no write...
As you can see from my last post, it's been a long time since I've written. Let me start by saying that the past few months have been some of the most stressful I have ever had...I had really let my work get to me, and things were done to me that were, simply put, wrong. I had a very hard time dealing and coping with the issues that I faced, but I have come out (almost) on the better end of things.
Now for the good stuff...
Well, in January, we took the kids to Disney World for the first time...the whole trip was on a whim (thanks to my wonderful hubby), and we had a BLAST! We even made time to stop and see some family in Georgia on the way back. That trip was something I will never forget. Bryson put it best when he said, "Mommy, it feels like magic is being sprinkled all around us!" Priceless.
We also took the kids for a mini-vacation to Old Salem. Just a quick little weekend trip, enormous hotel suite included, and it was so much fun! I think we may try to take mini vacations throughout the year...it's so nice to get away, even if only for a night or two.
Bryson and Jenna are growing like weeds...they continue to amaze me with their kindness. Their spirits are beautiful, and I thank God every day for them.
There have been many ups and downs the last few months, but in everything, I have learned. So, as I sit here reflecting on where I am today, I'm going to share these lessons...
1) Laugh until you cry at least once a month...I have my hubby and my Donna to thank for those laughs. Trust me, it makes it all better.
2) When someone wrongs you, pray for them. It's natural to be mad, but in that anger, pray that God will heal whatever they are missing from their life...it will change you. (Side note, I am still angry, but I pray that God uses that anger to make me more driven...so, I'm still making a positive out of a negative!) :o)
3) LOVE your children...and tell them! The rewards you will receive from it are endless!
4) Cherish your spouse/significant other...too often, we take things for granted. You never know when the last "I love you" will be said, so say it often!
5) Take some "me" time...as a mom, wife, worker, taxi driver, etc., I find it hard to do, but even five minutes helps.
6) Scream if you wanna...enough said!
7) Dance and sing like a rock star...there's no better release than to crank the radio up, sing as loud as you can, and dance like a crazy person!
8) Just breathe...when you are stressed, mad, sad, tormented, or just blah, take some deep breaths and feel the oxygen go into your lungs...
9) Believe in yourself, even when it seems that nobody else does...you'll be amazed at what you can accomplish.
And last but not least:
10) Pray without ceasing...pray for rain, pray for sunshine...pray for God's grace to be reflected in your own life.
I know that everything happens for a reason, and it sounds so cliche, but it does...and when faced with adversity, ask yourself: Am I going to stumble and fall, or am I going to lift myself up, learn from this, and be a better person?
I made the conscience decision to do the latter and it has changed me.
Until I write again (which I promise it won't be too long), have a wonderful night/day!
Now for the good stuff...
Well, in January, we took the kids to Disney World for the first time...the whole trip was on a whim (thanks to my wonderful hubby), and we had a BLAST! We even made time to stop and see some family in Georgia on the way back. That trip was something I will never forget. Bryson put it best when he said, "Mommy, it feels like magic is being sprinkled all around us!" Priceless.
We also took the kids for a mini-vacation to Old Salem. Just a quick little weekend trip, enormous hotel suite included, and it was so much fun! I think we may try to take mini vacations throughout the year...it's so nice to get away, even if only for a night or two.
Bryson and Jenna are growing like weeds...they continue to amaze me with their kindness. Their spirits are beautiful, and I thank God every day for them.
There have been many ups and downs the last few months, but in everything, I have learned. So, as I sit here reflecting on where I am today, I'm going to share these lessons...
1) Laugh until you cry at least once a month...I have my hubby and my Donna to thank for those laughs. Trust me, it makes it all better.
2) When someone wrongs you, pray for them. It's natural to be mad, but in that anger, pray that God will heal whatever they are missing from their life...it will change you. (Side note, I am still angry, but I pray that God uses that anger to make me more driven...so, I'm still making a positive out of a negative!) :o)
3) LOVE your children...and tell them! The rewards you will receive from it are endless!
4) Cherish your spouse/significant other...too often, we take things for granted. You never know when the last "I love you" will be said, so say it often!
5) Take some "me" time...as a mom, wife, worker, taxi driver, etc., I find it hard to do, but even five minutes helps.
6) Scream if you wanna...enough said!
7) Dance and sing like a rock star...there's no better release than to crank the radio up, sing as loud as you can, and dance like a crazy person!
8) Just breathe...when you are stressed, mad, sad, tormented, or just blah, take some deep breaths and feel the oxygen go into your lungs...
9) Believe in yourself, even when it seems that nobody else does...you'll be amazed at what you can accomplish.
And last but not least:
10) Pray without ceasing...pray for rain, pray for sunshine...pray for God's grace to be reflected in your own life.
I know that everything happens for a reason, and it sounds so cliche, but it does...and when faced with adversity, ask yourself: Am I going to stumble and fall, or am I going to lift myself up, learn from this, and be a better person?
I made the conscience decision to do the latter and it has changed me.
Until I write again (which I promise it won't be too long), have a wonderful night/day!
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