tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-18698941600056628392024-03-13T09:28:09.777-04:00Confessions of a Coastie WifeThe Fambroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14933322992755542099noreply@blogger.comBlogger204125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1869894160005662839.post-737743525871465772013-07-10T15:49:00.001-04:002013-07-10T15:49:56.502-04:00Whole 30 week 2<div style="text-align: center;">
This week was a challenging week as there was a holiday in there. A holiday that normally is characterized by food, food, and more food. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And not the Whole 30 kind.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We did well though having the cookout at our house with some friends that we had not seen in awhile. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I was super excited that they enjoyed the food as well.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then we had a potluck cookout at church.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Which we did not prepare for at all.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Tray after tray of sweets and salads all containing things that we could not eat passed by.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But we held strong and did not partake.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It was a little awkward just eating hamburger patties with mustard ( I checked the label) but we survived.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The results of this week are not as impressive as last.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I lost 1/2 a pound. BUT I am noticing a definite change in my clothes. They are getting baggier around the middle.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Whole 30 is not necessarily a weight loss regime, but I would be lying if I said I didn't care if I lost a few more pounds.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My candida die off is still there, but fading which is lovely. And I definitely am seeing a return in energy somewhat.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I keep waiting for that "tiger-rush" of energy, but I think with 3 kids their schedules and one of them being a baby who still wakes in the night, Having enough energy to enjoy the day may be all I get.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The best part of it all though is the fact that I still have had no belly issues since starting Whole 30!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That is AMAZING in my book.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Im hoping with more water intake this week and maybe a tighter attention to my portion sizes that I will be able to see a more positive number on the scale next week.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
The Fambroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14933322992755542099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1869894160005662839.post-77891247108432795862013-07-01T12:52:00.002-04:002013-07-01T12:53:04.398-04:00I can do anything for a little while right?<div style="text-align: center;">
Its amazing how one's body changes after having a baby...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
or turning 30.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Of course things change physically, bellys are stretched,hips are wider, hair is a little grayer.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Oh that's just me? Sorry never mind.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
For the past year I have really noticed how varied my emotions have been, how clear of mind I have NOT been, and my over all strength and stamina seems to have taken a nose dive.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then a few weeks ago I really became aware of how grumpy my tummy kept getting by the evening times.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
After a lot of research and some soul searching I came to the conclusion that this must be diet related.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So I decided to Jump on the Whole 30 band wagon. I figured a diet free of any and all irritants for 30 days would definitely tell me if this was diet related or if I was just getting old. LOL</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I had heard of success from some of my friends of varying physical abilities so I figured this was something I could do.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I created a <a href="http://pinterest.com/mommafambro/whole-30-approved/" target="_blank">Pinterest page</a> (of course) so I could go directly to approved recipes instead of seeing all of my naughty recipes in my <a href="http://pinterest.com/mommafambro/food/" target="_blank">Food page</a>.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I want to set out some goals for this thirty days other than just weight loss so here goes.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
First off: I hope to see if eliminating so much out of my diet will calm the belly gripes. Nobody likes to be around a gassy lady. :)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Secondly: I hope to have more energy to complete my day. Too often I feel I'm just barely surviving. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Thirdly: Clarity of Mind. Im not sure if this is possible by eliminating foods, but I would love to feel less foggy brained and actually be able to carry on a conversation without forgetting what I was saying.... in the middle of a sentence.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I just finished week one and here are my thoughts.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I lost 5 lbs. Wahoo!!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am tired in the evenings- Upon reading the FAQs of Whole 30 it states that feeling sluggish is normal at first because the body is getting rid of all the nasties and relearning to burn fuel and fat not quick carbs.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am hungry- Not always but there are days when I want to chew off my arm.- Again I checked the FAQs and find I need to add denser vegetables and good fats to my diet. Lots more sweet potatoes.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am having a MASSIVE Candida Die off- This I'm not too surprised with since sugar has been a part of my life since... oh birth? Can anyone say Sweet Tea? Although unsurprising, being itchy in all the wrong places is terribly annoying.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My belly has not been grumpy ALL WEEK!!!! This I am super excited about and paired with the weight loss has been the only thing keeping me going. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I DO have will power- I made it through the drive thru of a fast food establishment and did NOT order anything for me! Just munched on my trusty trail mix and passed the nuggets back. :)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My Husband is a Big ole whiner! LOL I love him for taking this challenge with me, he came in on the tail end of week 1. And boy did he ever gripe about all the things we couldn't have. Despite it all he is being very supportive (yet very verbal) and staying on this with me.... so far.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The belly progress and the weight are definitely my reasons for keeping on for week 2. I hope this next week brings a bit more energy on top of the other successes. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
The Fambroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14933322992755542099noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1869894160005662839.post-65885341684163503662013-06-18T22:35:00.000-04:002013-06-18T22:35:51.569-04:00Hello old friend...<div style="text-align: center;">
Three weeks ago I did something I had been putting off for a while.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I rejoined the YMCA.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I wasn't really thrilled about the situation, spending money when I had access to free equipment at home and the base gym. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
What I didn't have access to was a sitter I could afford as much as I needed.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Or children who would let me work out... because getting up any earlier was not happening.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
After spending an entire day being the only person that Hazel talked to I knew I had to bite the bullet.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
If nothing else I needed a few moments from the constant chatterbox my six year old has suddenly turned into since her brother went on vacation.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The first day back though I knew it was the right decision.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Being able to get back to running, lifting listening to my music and not a Kids Bop version of today's tunes was just what the doctor ordered.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It even encouraged Hazel to get out of bed willingly and get herself ready to go. Let me tell you this NEVER happens. We have had to change dance studios and Co-ops because the struggle to get this kid out of bed and somewhere on time in the morning just turns me into the "Yelling Mom".</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But here we are out the door sometimes as early as 8 am with hair combed and teeth brushed and snack in hand.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Glory!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So back in the gym I decided to finish my 10k trainer I had started back when I was prepping for the Newport 10 miler.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I love it!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And yes I am that annoying person who has to post every workout on Facebook. I don't apologize for it. I do it because I need the feed back from friends who will encourage me along. I do it to prove to myself that I can accomplish this goal. I do it to show my husband my commitment to making our lives as healthy and happy as I can. And I do it to inspire others who see that if this girl can do it, maybe they can too.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But let me tell you....</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
An hour on the treadmill is killer! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Like I got mad and said "Forget it!" today because I was tired and sore. But I went back and walked it out and finished my 4.1 miles</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I do think I will go back to my 5k trainer though and use it for a speed workout, just so I dont get bored and maybe just maybe the stars will align and I can go outside for long runs once a week and finish up the is 10k program.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Because next? Next is obstacle training!! YAY!!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
The Fambroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14933322992755542099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1869894160005662839.post-20024272641146575752013-06-07T17:07:00.000-04:002013-06-07T17:07:44.785-04:00I'm a Yeller<div style="text-align: center;">
Ok so I have a confession to make. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I Yell.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
A Lot.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I come from a looooong line of yellers. We are a loud group of people.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
When you are yelling so loud that you can't hear what we are saying... We yell louder.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
How else are you suppose to hear me right?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Problem is when you have kids and you yell and you see the hurt in their eyes or how they cower when your volume raises ......</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
because they are scared of you.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strike>You </strike> I frighten my kids.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I, the one who is suppose to be their ultimate earthly protector, frighten my children.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I don't like that about myself. I can make all the excuses in the world about stress, lack of sleep, blah, blah, blah truth is I have gotten in a nasty habit of reaching for my yell before anything else.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Enter The <a href="http://theorangerhino.com/" target="_blank">Orange Rhino.</a> </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Long story short, this mom is just like me and made a commitment to not yelling for a year and blogs about it. Shes on Facebook too and offers great daily advice.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I've been doing better..</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Until today.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Today Hazel began the day chipperly declaring that after lunch she wanted a nap.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Ok", I laughed, "You can have a nap."</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Of course when lunch came around she decided she wasn't in fact tired enough for a nap anymore.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Changed my mind mom, let's go to the library and sign up for the reading program."</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So we were off. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
After she's all signed up and tucked in with a few books that she *must* read right there in the library to add to her Summer log, in walks in another military mom with her kid.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The conversation immediately turns to homeschooling.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
She is contemplating homeschooling her child for "half a year only" as they are transferring and would like to open up my brain and reap every bit of information available.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Socialization, Standardized testing, Art, Life lessons, Compassion towards others, How do I KNOW my kids are learning and WHO is checking to make sure I'm doing my job.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
At this point I have answered these questions so many times the answers just roll out. I'm confident in our choice to homeschool. I don't need to be nervous and am happy to help. You always get that one person though who likes to use you though as their sounding board as to why traditional school is better.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Why they are better.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It never sets well with me but Im adult enough to just let them ramble.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I feel a tug at my arm.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Mom, I want you to put on a puppet show.."</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Give me a moment please Im speaking right now." </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Socialization, Standardized testing, Art, Life lessons, Compassion towards others, How do I KNOW ...."</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Mommy I want to write my books in my log"</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Just a little bit dear.."</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Socialization, Standardized testing....."</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"MOMMYYYYY!!!!!!"</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And the fit ensued.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
In the end Mrs. X got to say all she needed to, Hazel logged her books, and I wanted to climb under the nearest rock as my valiant effort at sharing homeschooling with someone was thwarted by my 6 year old's tantrum.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So as punishment I decided to withhold her movie for the evening. And let her know by yelling it to her in the car. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Its like the noise just vomited out of me. I could see the hurt in her eyes, the fear in Lillian's as she had no clue what was going on and then it all came out....</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"I TOLD YOU I WANTED A NAP AFTER LUNCH THIS MORNING!!!"</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So there you have it. I should have listened to my child in the first place. And although I doubt very seriously we were the ambassadors for homeschooling that Mrs. X was looking for, a lesson was indeed learned.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Now let's nap.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
The Fambroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14933322992755542099noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1869894160005662839.post-32043826829127539022013-06-03T09:44:00.000-04:002013-06-03T09:44:24.317-04:00The Ever Elusive Element<div style="text-align: center;">
Balance</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Here lately I have felt like I am caught in the changing of the tide. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Trying to manage this wife/motherhood/friend/active participant in life gig is hugely overwhelming at the moment. Like one minute I have my feet planted and can make a little headway towards the shore and the next wave (sleepless baby, house, teaching, field trips, and in general need for an adult conversation) crash over my head and I'm left spinning head over heels hitting every obstacle cleverly hidden under the surface until I just can't tell which way is up and I'm starting to suffocate.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then the wave subsides for a minute and I stand up, and can actually smile and make a few steps before the next crashing wave topples me.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The problem is no one else seems to be able to see anything but when I stand up and smile.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
When I shamefully confess that I feel like I'm about to lose my mind I just get a sympathetic smile and a "Just know that this will pass," or a "Well you sure LOOK like you have it all under control." </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Well I'm so glad you think so, and yes I KNOW this is a phase and this will change sooner or later just as the tides do, eventually the waves will start washing me towards the shore of sanity instead of away to the depths of darkness.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Problem is I'm not so sure I'm strong enough to make it through this change right now.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Problem is people drown.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Being a military wife, homeschooling mom with a little one under foot, and in general content person has never been more difficult..... or exhausting.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There is so much need around me... good need, hard need, essential need. Everyone requires a piece of time and effort including me and I just don't know how to properly divy it all up.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Everything cannot be top Priority Allison", my therapist once said.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Yes but everything is so important."</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Make your lists, balance your lists, make sure you take care of essentials first including yourself and forget the rest."</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My four walls, Lists, do it right, put blinders to everything else.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Dear Lord I'm trying. Just let me make it to shore.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
The Fambroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14933322992755542099noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1869894160005662839.post-79627015518364615792013-05-05T20:43:00.000-04:002013-05-05T20:43:01.073-04:00I did it!! <div style="text-align: center;">
So last Saturday I got up nerves all a tingle and tidied the house, looked at the clock, paced, looked at the clock some more, and FINALLY it was time. I was going to pick Angela up from the airport!! We were really going to see each other, we were REALLY going to run 10 MILES!! </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
She hopped off the plane and it was immediate tears! Gahh!! I missed that girl!!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
24 hours before we had agreed very last minute to volunteer for bib pickup at the Fort so away we went! Falling right back into all our conovs like we had never been apart for 3 years! It was great!!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ang began to really worry about halfway through bib pickup that she was going to freeze to death as the wind picked up and whipped us for the 4 hours we stood handing out bibs.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It was all worth it though.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We thawed. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I got a green shirt. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
:)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That night I was a basket of nerves trying to get my things together and worrying about my little Princess who has officially adopted the "I'll sleep when I'm dead" mantra. She's why I had not trained in 2 weeks.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Could I do this? Were we going to keep Angela up all night?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And then I melted the shirt Ang made for us to support Boston.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
In all honesty I wanted to cry.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Sleep was evasive as usual, but I pulled myself out of bed on time, and readied.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We hit the pre race yoga session which was awesome as I didn't struggle nearly as bad as I thought I would through the venyasas </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Once at the starting line I saw so many people I knew and really began to get excited... and emotional.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Hey no sleep for 8 weeks will do that to a woman.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Yeah I cried.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Moment of Silence for Boston...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Tears streaming...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then the gun.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We were off. The view was spectacular, the route much harder than I anticipated, and people were passing me like crazy.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Doubt.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then at around mile 2 there was a couple just standing on the side of the road high clapping and cheering for every runner that passed. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
There were people there to cheer us on.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I knew then I could do it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I may not be with the people I knew but there were people high fiving me and telling me what an awesome job I was doing.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That gave me the drive to keep going.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Right up until mile 6.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I was done, my running app had frozen, my feet were screaming and people were STILL passing me!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then I saw a little dude from the Boston Marathon again cheering me on and right past him on the left was </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Amy, my friend and fellow runner.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Her sister was running too but had already passed and she was waiting to cheer me on.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I bawled the whole way past her!!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It really was what kept me going.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I made it to the mile 8 water station and there was food... bananas.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I could see them from way off.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I hate bananas.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Funny though my body seemed to move of its own accord and I took the banana ate it and didn't die.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
LOL</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It really wasn't bad.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
3/4 of a mile away from the finish Ang came back for me.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UnWuor5TvRk/UYb5llhatCI/AAAAAAAAB9s/eWckeh77yTc/s1600/026.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UnWuor5TvRk/UYb5llhatCI/AAAAAAAAB9s/eWckeh77yTc/s320/026.JPG" width="219" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Angela after she finished photo courtesy of my hubs <3 p=""><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
She prepped me that the finish line was a little different than we had thought, that my family was there and I was totally going to smoke my goal.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Did I mention my feet were crying? </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Another Running/Homeschool/Military friend Jen hollered as we went by.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Next thing I know she was running with us to get me to the finish.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Now this is the girl who told me at my last race, "Find someone you know you can beat, and beat 'em...... or take 'em out." Love that girl!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So they were running with me and I had to stop and walk for just a few paces and the girls I had picked to beat passed me.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
"Oh NO YOU DON'T!" </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(I really hope I didn't scream as loud as I said it in my head)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Jen laughed and we pushed right on to the finish line.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
10 Miles.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
in 2 hours and 13 minutes.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My goal was 2:30.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Victory was mine (and I didn't have to take anyone out).</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The rest of the day was spend recouping, visiting and going back to the course with a camera.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Pure bliss.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And how did I get rid of the soreness of running 10 miles?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Oh, just took a 3 day trip walking downtown New York City. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But that is for another post. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
:)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DhxtI58-U38/UYb5pOoLZII/AAAAAAAAB90/qocjMsneOoU/s1600/027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="269" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DhxtI58-U38/UYb5pOoLZII/AAAAAAAAB90/qocjMsneOoU/s320/027.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Proof I actually ran</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
(again photo thanks to my amazing hubby)</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ppMs4xB3qvU/UYb5xUQHxBI/AAAAAAAAB98/JWZn8J_P8gY/s1600/053.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ppMs4xB3qvU/UYb5xUQHxBI/AAAAAAAAB98/JWZn8J_P8gY/s320/053.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This is what we ran beside! It was breathtaking!</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KyWKL-I0Kh8/UYb50kJr0wI/AAAAAAAAB-E/8epIBv9y7zc/s1600/065.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KyWKL-I0Kh8/UYb50kJr0wI/AAAAAAAAB-E/8epIBv9y7zc/s320/065.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Angela</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z2IKLJKqUFs/UYb55WZPelI/AAAAAAAAB-U/8qs06_TFFe4/s1600/066.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-z2IKLJKqUFs/UYb55WZPelI/AAAAAAAAB-U/8qs06_TFFe4/s320/066.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MlHZfTILI-8/UYb5-laJQWI/AAAAAAAAB-c/Li8SukivZ40/s1600/063.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-MlHZfTILI-8/UYb5-laJQWI/AAAAAAAAB-c/Li8SukivZ40/s320/063.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Perfection.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</3></div>
The Fambroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14933322992755542099noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1869894160005662839.post-76009906897575390802013-02-25T13:19:00.002-05:002013-02-25T13:19:46.790-05:00I feel all grown now.<div align="center">
So being a military wife means we move..</div>
<div align="center">
a lot.</div>
<div align="center">
Fortunately that means I get the opportunity to meet some pretty awesome people.</div>
<div align="center">
Unfortunately that means I also have to leave those people when we transfer.</div>
<div align="center">
For the past 7 years all of our traveling has revolved around family. Which is all I figured traveling meant in this life.</div>
<div align="center">
But over the past few years I have sat by while fellow military wives have had friends come to visit them, and they in turn fly out for weekends ALONE to visit as well.</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
I must admit I have been a little jealous.</div>
<div align="center">
Don't get me wrong I LOVE when my family comes to visit, but when you spend so much time rebuilding support systems everywhere you go, its nice to actually have connections beyond one duty station to another. It also seems very "grown" to jet set to see a buddy.</div>
<div align="center">
Well my friend <a href="http://lifebeyondthechaos.blogspot.com/">Angela</a> and I have bemoaned for 3 years that we missed each other, but it seemed the only way we would actually get to see each other would be for us to be re-stationed in Miami.</div>
<div align="center">
I told her about my latest running endeavor (The Fort Adams 10 Miler), and we fantasized about how awesome it would be if she could come up. </div>
<div align="center">
But just like every military wife randomly searches rentals in locations they would LIKE to be stationed at, Angela tortures herself by looking up flights to see me.</div>
<div align="center">
Only this time the prices weren't so ridiculous....</div>
<div align="center">
Next thing I know I'm getting a picture text with a flight itinerary to me!!!!</div>
<div align="center">
Angela is coming HERE! To run my biggest race yet!!</div>
<div align="center">
AHHHHH!!!!</div>
<div align="center">
To say I am on cloud nine is the understatement of the century.</div>
<div align="center">
Angela has been running just about as long as I have known her, and has totally been an inspiration for me to get off my duff and do... something.</div>
<div align="center">
Plus she's the only person who would let me box her in my back yard to blow off steam.</div>
<div align="center">
Gotta love friends who will let you hit them ;)</div>
<div align="center">
<a href="http://lifebeyondthechaos.blogspot.com/2013/02/its-runiversary-giveaway.html">As a huge thank you I am sending you over to her blog to enter into her awesome giveaway!</a> Tell her I said hi ok?</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
The Fambroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14933322992755542099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1869894160005662839.post-73786326320940296682013-02-22T17:06:00.000-05:002013-02-22T17:06:08.272-05:00Lillian, why so fast?<div style="text-align: center;">
You know that baby I just had?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Well she's trying her hardest to NOT be a baby anymore.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
6 months old and already 2 teeth, crawling, emptying the bookshelves,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and latest pulling up and trying to walk when you hold her hands.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Will somebody please tell her this is NOT a race?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hgb9VXQG_2w/USfrOWky9UI/AAAAAAAAB84/g5jeaqU1GxM/s1600/IMG_6140edit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-hgb9VXQG_2w/USfrOWky9UI/AAAAAAAAB84/g5jeaqU1GxM/s320/IMG_6140edit.jpg" width="256" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zn7NDdD-LwE/USfrctrlwqI/AAAAAAAAB9A/c8o_yKoMv-4/s1600/101.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Zn7NDdD-LwE/USfrctrlwqI/AAAAAAAAB9A/c8o_yKoMv-4/s320/101.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MWu2zZcmOBk/USfrdEUCioI/AAAAAAAAB9I/PTxUkFOJEnI/s1600/115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-MWu2zZcmOBk/USfrdEUCioI/AAAAAAAAB9I/PTxUkFOJEnI/s320/115.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sigmrO4I8a0/USfrdFMVmcI/AAAAAAAAB9M/p4iag9qCCL0/s1600/122.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-sigmrO4I8a0/USfrdFMVmcI/AAAAAAAAB9M/p4iag9qCCL0/s320/122.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-32213zzNQZM/USfrdqCdOvI/AAAAAAAAB9Q/LxHCiAajJLc/s1600/126.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-32213zzNQZM/USfrdqCdOvI/AAAAAAAAB9Q/LxHCiAajJLc/s320/126.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
The Fambroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14933322992755542099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1869894160005662839.post-67084393696310568922013-02-22T16:59:00.001-05:002013-02-22T16:59:24.625-05:00Chasing the light.<div align="center">
"Babe, can you watch the kids for a minute?"</div>
<div align="center">
"Yeah, why?"</div>
<div align="center">
"I HAVE to go catch that light!"</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
He shakes his head at me and smiles as I hastily throw on a coat, sneakers, and grab the camera.</div>
<div align="center">
Running out in the snow I realize only too late that I have forgotten my gloves... no matter that sun is going down fast and these colors wont last long.</div>
<div align="center">
The snow is giving this momma a little gift. Through storm and gale and loss of power, the cabin fever and doldrums of the same four walls the sun finally emerges. And as it sets across the chilly blanket of the ground, hues of purples and blues, pinks and oranges emerge and dance around.</div>
<div align="center">
I have to try and capture it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KTHSXg0Tv-o/USfnu7HfVTI/AAAAAAAAB8A/nDPh7AZdZp8/s1600/016.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KTHSXg0Tv-o/USfnu7HfVTI/AAAAAAAAB8A/nDPh7AZdZp8/s320/016.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cD9rJ9fhods/USfnvvDGGJI/AAAAAAAAB8I/DYX9RAHQ7qg/s1600/020.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cD9rJ9fhods/USfnvvDGGJI/AAAAAAAAB8I/DYX9RAHQ7qg/s320/020.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-15TPeYFpBzQ/USfn3fcmJKI/AAAAAAAAB8Q/GNYIajCRMe8/s1600/018.CR2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-15TPeYFpBzQ/USfn3fcmJKI/AAAAAAAAB8Q/GNYIajCRMe8/s320/018.CR2" width="213" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
I run like my life depends on it to the waves to try and catch the sun before it slips below the edge of trees across the bay.</div>
<div align="center">
The wind is howling through me as I inch out on the railroad bridge certain that I am going to fall trying to hold on to these colors.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ru3ViVnUVa4/USfo2YVOEwI/AAAAAAAAB8Y/WNiFbw_wZU4/s1600/030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ru3ViVnUVa4/USfo2YVOEwI/AAAAAAAAB8Y/WNiFbw_wZU4/s320/030.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kLH9IflH9T4/USfpNKJcisI/AAAAAAAAB8o/5Piu_jdRtM8/s1600/038.CR2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kLH9IflH9T4/USfpNKJcisI/AAAAAAAAB8o/5Piu_jdRtM8/s320/038.CR2" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
I stomp back home triumphant. At least as triumphant as I can be with such little knowledge of my "fancy camera".</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KcWe8INO3-k/USfpGyYvgjI/AAAAAAAAB8g/OK_6HnbE7Gk/s1600/034.CR2" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-KcWe8INO3-k/USfpGyYvgjI/AAAAAAAAB8g/OK_6HnbE7Gk/s320/034.CR2" width="320" /></a><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TVGbOLkuhzI/USfp2XpmULI/AAAAAAAAB8w/DSQP7aByOZg/s1600/036.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-TVGbOLkuhzI/USfp2XpmULI/AAAAAAAAB8w/DSQP7aByOZg/s320/036.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
The Fambroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14933322992755542099noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1869894160005662839.post-82309129195418659752013-02-05T15:11:00.000-05:002013-02-05T15:11:36.209-05:00I took a little jog...Just as I found out I was with child in 2011, my neighbors were a buzz with the crazy idea to enter a race to run this....<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b9oLOXak6zQ/URAsJlR5eoI/AAAAAAAAB7Q/9fmQaVkPK_A/s1600/bridge.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="136" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b9oLOXak6zQ/URAsJlR5eoI/AAAAAAAAB7Q/9fmQaVkPK_A/s320/bridge.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That's the Pell Bridge. The race was 4.1 miles with one mile going up hill on the bridge</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They wanted me to do it. I wanted to be able to walk 10 steps without looking for the nearest ladies room.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
While the reality of running the race with my friends was not to be, I did promise them after I had the baby I would run it. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
They would have already transferred, but it would be my way of keeping them close.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And I did.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
14weeks after birthing.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I had every intention of training for the race, but some very pressing life happened beforehand which consumed all of my time.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
To say I had race nerves that morning was the understatement of the year.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I just prayed I would make it.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Then I saw this....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1wQGbruhi2k/URAtUglviMI/AAAAAAAAB7Y/69ed2S1fDCc/s1600/bridge+up.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1wQGbruhi2k/URAtUglviMI/AAAAAAAAB7Y/69ed2S1fDCc/s320/bridge+up.jpg" width="238" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That sunrise was one of the most beautiful and cleansing sights I had allowed myself to see for weeks. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Words nor this simple camera phone shot could ever do it justice.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I was on a running high for hours.... until my body told me exactly what it thought about me running 4.1 miles with absolutely no training.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Ouch, but a glorious ouch!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
This year I want more, I want to experience more soul cleansing as I make my way across the miles. Yes I will run the bridge again, but that is later in the year. right now my sights are set here.....</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C0quwpHpABw/URFl4U_uXaI/AAAAAAAAB7o/EEG4IP7emIw/s1600/slide1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="140" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-C0quwpHpABw/URFl4U_uXaI/AAAAAAAAB7o/EEG4IP7emIw/s320/slide1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lh0gMHf-Fro/URFl8dYlxAI/AAAAAAAAB7w/_NJivlUWKEQ/s1600/slide3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="140" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-lh0gMHf-Fro/URFl8dYlxAI/AAAAAAAAB7w/_NJivlUWKEQ/s320/slide3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
That's the setting for a 10 mile run.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
10 MILES!!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And its going to take me through some of the most beautiful scenery ever!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And the coolest part is the finish line is smack in the middle of the Fort!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I LOVE it!!!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Training started this week and I am actively recruiting more people to train with and run the race with me that morning.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
So if your feelin' froggy...</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Go here <a href="http://www.newport10miler.com/">http://www.newport10miler.com/</a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Register and come take a stroll with me :)</div>
The Fambroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14933322992755542099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1869894160005662839.post-92174957438194185482013-02-02T04:55:00.000-05:002013-02-02T04:55:13.360-05:00Lillian Corynne<div style="text-align: center;">
I keep hoping to have the time to sit down and compose this perfect account of the birth of my youngest, but time and perfect words seem so fleeting and I want to capture the magic that is still in my mind NOW, so here goes....</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I knew having the "birth I wanted" was going to come with a struggle, mainly to find a provider who was willing to allow me to VBAC. Turns out that was the easy part. Three doctors, 2 interviews with doulas, a manual turn for a breech baby, and finally completing my hypnobabies training later, here I was staring at an ever expanding belly that housed a baby who had decided that inside was the place to be.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Two days before the medical staff was to serve her an eviction notice and induce me, I started feeling "something". Not ever having felt the natural oncoming of contractions I was constantly looking for the textbook signs. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
They never came.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So just to have something to do I found a contraction timer app and downloaded it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Yes, an app. My neighbor laughed and recounted to me "in her day they used a stop watch and a clock." </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
So I started to time these feelings and then set off to the Library to take the kids to one of the Summer programs. I think It was a music program.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
All the while I was hitting my little timer going from 14-19 min apart. I remember my friend Kelly watching the app and how wide her eyes got when at one point these feelings were 9 minutes apart.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
But I was too comfortable to be in Labor.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That night Hazel and I were in the shower together and I just felt the need to prep her just in case I needed to wake her in the middle of the night. She asked if the baby was coming now, and I said I didn't think so but I just wanted her to know so she was prepared (ie not a total grump munkin should I have to wake her).</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I also texted my brother to tell him Happy Birthday a day early, just in case I was otherwise preoccupied the next day. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I finished packing my bags, brought my yoga ball up stairs and filled my water bottle.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My body did all of this automatically, I kept telling Mike this couldn't be "it".</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That night he slept while I sat on the yoga ball streaming hypnobabies and tapping my app.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
At 3:30 AM Hazel came in the room and bounded on the bed asking me if it was time yet to go to Ms. Kelly's and was I going to hurry up and have the baby.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then she started singing Jingle Bells.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It was July 25... Christmas in July.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then I felt SOMETHING and needed to get in the shower. By the time I got out I was tapping my app any where from 4-9 minutes apart.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I woke Mike and he called the hospital to ask if they thought we should come in, their response? "We will see you in a few minutes." </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Ok, guess we are going.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I called my Dad on the way and told him we were going and how I REALLY hoped they didn't send me home.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I felt uncomfortable but not in pain, hitting the app every 2-4 minutes.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Standing in the parking lot at the hospital is when things got real. I started laughing/crying that I was scared that this was going to hurt sooo much.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The next 10 minutes were when I panicked a little. I was taken to a room while Mike moved the car, Kim my doula was not there yet, and the staff were trying to hook me up to all of their gadgets which I was trying to refuse.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The Intern Doctor came in and asked me about my hypnobabies tracks, afterwards she checked me "just to see where we are here".</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Her eyes got really wide.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You're at 8!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mike comes in</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I'm at 8!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Call Kim now!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Kim, she's at 8.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And she rounded the corner.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Now I was ready.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
They started to wheel me out and this poor sick pregnant woman was ahead of me. We both couldn't fit on the elevator.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
They pushed me ahead, everyone was afraid I was going to have a baby in the hall.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I remember feeling so bad for this woman, she was holding a barf bag. I felt fine.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
What I remember most about the midwife who attended my birth was that when Mike handed her our birth plan, she stopped.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
She read it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Entirely.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I was in awe.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Especially when she gave me no grief about my choices, even when she was scolded by the "head doctor" for not having me on a monitor.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
She was there for ME.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The anesthesiologist however seemed to not understand I was NOT getting an epidural.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
My water broke while I was in the bathroom. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This was so cool!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I was experiencing everything I never had the chance to experience naturally with my other two.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I immediately felt the need to push, but felt a bit at a loss of how I wanted to be.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Then Kim started humming with me through my contractions while I hugged Mike...</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
instant calm.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I was more vocal during the pushing process than I expected, but nothing dramatic.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I remember feeling as though her head would never come out. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Everyone reminded me that I was doing exactly what I needed to do.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And then, she was here.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Passed through my legs into my arms, I was the first person to hold her.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Lillian Corynne. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7UA_lfEQJI0/UQzgw2RB46I/AAAAAAAAB7A/19wiV_V8bf4/s1600/Lillian+birth.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-7UA_lfEQJI0/UQzgw2RB46I/AAAAAAAAB7A/19wiV_V8bf4/s320/Lillian+birth.jpg" width="239" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
10 pounds 1 ounce</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(Just shy of what her uncle weighed... they share birthdays)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
She just looked at me, so calm, not crying, just looked at me.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
We did it.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
The midwife was patient and did not clamp the cord until it stopped pulsing, helped me deliver the placenta and then showed us the Tree of Life.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Kim stayed to make sure Lillian nursed well and then it was just us.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
This birth was so healing for both Mike and I.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
It was perfect.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And so is she.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
The Fambroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14933322992755542099noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1869894160005662839.post-26510289091948238272013-01-03T21:46:00.001-05:002013-01-03T21:46:15.532-05:00The Resolutions<div align="center">
I LOVE making New Year Resolutions!</div>
<div align="center">
Its a time for endless possibilities, time to dream, time to improve, time to throw away all that hasn't worked or held me down and start anew.</div>
<div align="center">
People who balk a New Years Resolutions annoy me. </div>
<div align="center">
Yes I understand that often people make promises and they don't keep them, Yes I even understand that sometimes they don't intend to keep them, but to spend a few moments at least dreaming of what you can become can take you places. Its like the ONE time everyone stops and actually daydreams about something BETTER.</div>
<div align="center">
There are soo many things I want to improve this year. I want to write more, knit more, play outside more, paint more, cook more, explore more, read MORE. </div>
<div align="center">
The details on how to accomplish all of this are still a little fuzzy but I know they are important because they are all things that make me happy. </div>
<div align="center">
And they are all things that have taken a backseat in 2012.</div>
<div align="center">
Don't get me wrong last year was GREAT! Nothing can compare to the birth of a child, and yet there were some definite struggles through last year. Things that left me on my knees clawing at the very existence of God, begging for help, demanding answers, and sometimes even throwing tantrums at the ones I received. <br />
Mostly though 2012 was a year that I gave away to others. I gave all my time to my children, your children, children I didn't even know... I gave my body over to grow a child, my mind over to worry over a loved one, and my sleep to all the above.<br />
I don't regret a minute of it, but the stark cold reality of it is that all that giving away has left me a little more weathered in the face, seasoned in the hair, and scattered in the mind.<br />
In short it left me old.<br />
I am 32. I am not old.<br />
So this year while I still have the needs of a lot of others to care for, I HAVE to care for me too. Because if I don't ... well you think you can throw a tantrum. You haven't seen mine lol.<br />
First things first is getting this body working again.<br />
That means being healthy.<br />
There are a lot of aspects of health but right now I am to tired to be a philosopher. I just need this machine to work again. And thankfully I have a partner willing to help. But that is for another post. For now, Lillian is asleep so I must follow her example.. Good night</div>
The Fambroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14933322992755542099noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1869894160005662839.post-52926964676907926542013-01-02T22:31:00.000-05:002013-01-02T22:31:08.900-05:00Best Year End EVER!!<div align="center">
Days leading up to New Years Eve we had not put much thought into any real activities...</div>
<div align="center">
I mean the idea of staying up PAST my children sleeping and missing those moments where I can close my eye myself?</div>
<div align="center">
Not appealing at all. :)</div>
<div align="center">
But all of a sudden we did have plans and we gathered the kids and the camera and headed to the church.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TvK9mYVjXSQ/UOT6PB9mVMI/AAAAAAAAB6A/X5iI69sRr00/s1600/IMG_5897.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-TvK9mYVjXSQ/UOT6PB9mVMI/AAAAAAAAB6A/X5iI69sRr00/s320/IMG_5897.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
To witness a Baptism.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CtwFXCBlnc4/UOT6WQKDdcI/AAAAAAAAB6I/8V5Qdps6r9o/s1600/amandas+joy.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CtwFXCBlnc4/UOT6WQKDdcI/AAAAAAAAB6I/8V5Qdps6r9o/s320/amandas+joy.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
It was the best way to end 2012.</div>
<div align="center">
After the wet hugs and well wishes we went home for an improvtu fire and smores.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kQUgsKvd-hk/UOT64xxQtvI/AAAAAAAAB6Q/1Xpi-TOtRn0/s1600/IMG_5943.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kQUgsKvd-hk/UOT64xxQtvI/AAAAAAAAB6Q/1Xpi-TOtRn0/s320/IMG_5943.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IEJnYzQKLAM/UOT67L-CQQI/AAAAAAAAB6Y/nQSqnsDJ6Ss/s1600/IMG_5953.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IEJnYzQKLAM/UOT67L-CQQI/AAAAAAAAB6Y/nQSqnsDJ6Ss/s320/IMG_5953.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DIdU3j4fJLk/UOT6-OcOqAI/AAAAAAAAB6g/81x2jA36O8k/s1600/IMG_5961.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-DIdU3j4fJLk/UOT6-OcOqAI/AAAAAAAAB6g/81x2jA36O8k/s320/IMG_5961.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2LEl__K0aeE/UOT7A1UDRYI/AAAAAAAAB6o/rjLAfPLd8gI/s1600/IMG_5966.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2LEl__K0aeE/UOT7A1UDRYI/AAAAAAAAB6o/rjLAfPLd8gI/s320/IMG_5966.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div align="center">
Then we got back to the "real plan" and went to bed right at midnight. </div>
<div align="center">
Happy 2013!! </div>
<div align="center">
</div>
<div align="center">
</div>
The Fambroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14933322992755542099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1869894160005662839.post-33827921075615346342013-01-01T13:55:00.002-05:002013-01-01T13:55:59.241-05:00Happy New Year! <div style="text-align: center;">
Lordy it has been almost a year since my last post! Time sure does fly when you are having fun! Now we are embarking upon a brand spankin New Year and boy am I excited. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
2012 was a year of growth for our family as we added a new member to the family,</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Miss Lillian Corynne Fambro.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I will write her story soon as it is a tale that MUST be told :)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
For now I just wanted to embrace this space again and say hi old friend I have missed you!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UifjHgB9hhI/UOMxLMx-a6I/AAAAAAAAB5s/I88jekO2dXA/s1600/IMG_5571.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="256" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UifjHgB9hhI/UOMxLMx-a6I/AAAAAAAAB5s/I88jekO2dXA/s320/IMG_5571.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Blessings to All! </div>
The Fambroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14933322992755542099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1869894160005662839.post-38605191782185728332012-01-10T11:07:00.002-05:002012-01-10T14:36:15.214-05:00Finally releasing the fear.<div style="text-align: center;">Wow.</div><div style="text-align: center;">The past few months I have spent a LOT of time in prayer and fear.</div><div style="text-align: center;">The moment we found out we were expecting feelings I thought I had long laid aside came rushing back.</div><div style="text-align: center;">For a while I wasn't even sure how to really be excited. Making it 13 weeks seemed like forever in terms of not knowing.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Which is why I really tried to hide it all. While Mike and I discussed constantly our possible need to let more people in on our secret, we also know that in terms of miscarriage bad news didn't seem to travel as fast as good news <a href="http://confessionsofacoastiewife.blogspot.com/2010_06_01_archive.html">last time</a> and as close as I was already to my "edge" I refused to go through all of that again. So for better or worse, we decided to just sit on it, whisper our fears in the dark and pray constantly that we would never have to revisit that again.</div><div style="text-align: center;">To be honest it made the whole process miserable.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Then we told the kids.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/gLp7UpRu4e0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">While I was still very much afraid that after telling the kids we would have to find a way to break bad news to them, the excitement that Jakob has had ever since has been intoxicating to say the least. </div><div style="text-align: center;">And then we heard THE most beautiful sound in the world.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Actually HEARING my child's life force gave me hope.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Leaving the midwife's office, she even noted that I was smiling a lot more.</div><div style="text-align: center;">"You can breathe now" is what I have to keep telling myself.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I never thought after all we worked towards to get pregnant that I would actually be paralyzed with fear by the one thing that I had wanted so much.</div><div style="text-align: center;">But its getting better. Each day is a victory, each excited announcement that my son makes, and each time he asks to look at <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Conception-Birth-Life-Unfolds/dp/0385503180/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1326224137&sr=8-1">the book</a> to see how big the baby is NOW makes it easier.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Slowly but surely I am becoming less afraid and more excited.</div><div style="text-align: center;">We're going to have a baby!</div><div style="text-align: center;">:)</div>The Fambroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14933322992755542099noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1869894160005662839.post-72981920775710394012012-01-02T07:26:00.003-05:002012-01-02T07:45:30.954-05:00"Mom, I want a better New Year"<div style="text-align: center;"><span ><u><br /></u></span></div><div style="text-align: center;">This is what my son said to me New Year's Eve as we went around the table discussing our hopes and dreams for 2012.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Confused I asked what he meant. (all the while Mommy guilt rolling, Why wasn't this year great?)</div><div style="text-align: center;">"Mom, I just want us to not be so busy. We aren't as nice to each other when we are busy. I just want to slow down and be home."</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Wow</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">It's amazing how God puts things in your path. I have been restless for a while over our schedules and errands. I have tried to put it all out of my mind justifying that, "It's for the kids, they are having fun, we can rest later."</div><div style="text-align: center;">Seems as though if I refuse to listen to my inner voice, He will make sure I am convicted by other means.</div><div style="text-align: center;">So yes, we want to make this year better. We want to make it slower, nicer, more enjoyable. We want to revel in the fun times we have, without having to rush, rush, rush to our next appointed event.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1tsFWZ_G8Kk/TwGlvRaM2mI/AAAAAAAAB4k/L2Ax_SDJTVc/s320/100_0337.JPG" /> </div><div style="text-align: center;">I definitely want to listen to the wise words of my child.</div><div style="text-align: center;">THAT will surely help me in my path to <a href="http://confessionsofacoastiewife.blogspot.com/2011/12/reflections-on-year-and-word.html">Peace I spoke of before</a>. </div><div style="text-align: center;">With the promise of a new family member arriving we know that life will HAVE to slow down at some point, but we have made a pact to try and take a more deliberate pace even before the baby comes. Because I want us to be "nicer" to one another too.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">What about you. Have you felt the urge to slow your pace? Do you feel as though there are things that need to be weeded out of your schedule so that everyone can actually have the time to enjoy one another?</div>The Fambroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14933322992755542099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1869894160005662839.post-86437507269884652702011-12-31T12:08:00.003-05:002011-12-31T12:52:25.268-05:00Reflections on the Year and The Word<div style="text-align: center;">I cannot believe this is the final day of 2011.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Wow time has literally flown.</div><div style="text-align: center;">This year was a grand one for us as a family even though there wasn't much evidence of it here. I'm sorry that I wasn't able to document more of our adventures, but not sorry at all that I chose to live our life, explore our new community, and spend every moment we could enjoying life.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Oftentimes that left little to no energy for documentation.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Oh well.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I'm hoping now that we are somewhat settled, and the winter chill has slowed our schedule ever so slightly, that I will have more time to devote to this space.</div><div style="text-align: center;">The promise of exciting news, experiences, choices, and even a new family member already means that 2012 looks to be another fabulous year for the Fambros.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-woJKNcdAKX8/Tv9D2FRh0QI/AAAAAAAAB4Y/yNuonPB-FkU/s320/Announcement.jpg" /> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">With all that said I have been thinking about my word for the year. This past year I chose quite a<a href="http://confessionsofacoastiewife.blogspot.com/2011/01/my-words-for-my-mind.html"> few</a> and although at some point I think that I had visited each attribute a little, there was one that I feel needs its own year of focus.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Peace</i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i><br /></i></div><div style="text-align: center;">The word Peace came up a few weeks ago, when I was having a particularly hard time with someone.</div><div style="text-align: center;">I messaged our minister's wife for advice and prayer on the matter to which she replied with Romans 12:18</div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>"If it is possible, as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone."</i></div><div style="text-align: center;">My first thought was, "Sure! I can <b>PEACE </b>this person right on out of my life! Good riddance!</div><div style="text-align: center;">But then I re-read the passage, it says to LIVE at peace with everyone, if it is possible. I began rethinking how I can better LIVE at peace with others, myself, my family and have decided to truly focus on this for my personal goal this year.</div><div style="text-align: center;">What does living at Peace mean for me?</div><div style="text-align: center;">It means that I will work to accept that which I cannot change, it does not mean that I will not continue to improve.</div><div style="text-align: center;">It means that I will accept the decision of others who choose not to remain friends, it does not mean I will love them any less.</div><div style="text-align: center;">It means that I will work to choose a gentle loving tone even in discipline with my children, it does not mean that they get to rule the roost.</div><div style="text-align: center;">It means that I will carefully consider my commitments so as to not overload myself, it does not mean that I will not fulfill that which I have already committed to.</div><div style="text-align: center;">Most importantly for me right now it means that I will work to faithfully attend to friends and family's needs, but it does not mean that I will constantly jump up to be the "saving grace" in all their problems.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">It will be a lot of work, but as always I hope that it teaches me to be a better person, mother, wife, and friend.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">So do you have any resolutions, words, or things you would like to learn in 2012?</div>The Fambroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14933322992755542099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1869894160005662839.post-46710132165798621612011-11-21T19:43:00.002-05:002011-11-21T19:53:04.164-05:00Today...<div style="text-align: center;">Today the lesson was rest,<br />And how steam unclogs your nose best.<br />Our textbook was a tissue pressed against our nose,<br />and NO bending over lest our head explodes.<br />Hot tea with honey and lunch in bed,<br />"I'm so sorry I can't help you.", the boy said.<br /><br />But today I am thankful not that you're sick,<br />but for the extra hugs, the stories read, and our slow deliberate<br />pace.<br />Caring, cleaning, tending, loving.<br />That was the lesson for today.<br /></div>The Fambroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14933322992755542099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1869894160005662839.post-28642729826867460652011-11-14T07:22:00.002-05:002011-11-14T07:39:00.826-05:00Gone but not forgotten<div style="text-align: center;">Seems to be the pattern with this blog huh? Life has been crazy busy since we moved to naval housing. <br />Most of the time its a good busy.<br />Jakob has been swimming for the novice swim team at the Y and has just this week been promoted to the competition team. His first meet is this Saturday. We are all excited to experience this. I'm sure he will do well. I mean 4 hours of swimming a week has to do something right? ;)<br />We also found a Scout group for Jakob and he seems to enjoy that. Thankfully Mike has been able to leave work in time to take him so that leave me an evening without leaving the house. *Bliss*<br /><br />Hazel has been taking her dance classes and loving every minute of it. She really has enjoyed tap so far, but I think her first love will still be ballet for now. She has decided to read and was thrilled when I put some CVC words on the fridge with the magnets and she was able to sound them out. She sounds EVERYTHING out now. Shes not ready for my input right now,just enjoying her new skill, which I'm completely ok with. I'm ready when she's ready.<br /><br />We've also been attending a local Homeschool Co-op which has been great! The kids really love the new friends they have made and I do as well! I teach a writing course with a Keli which is nice since we don't get to catch up at all anymore now that we are both homeschooling. <br /><br />Family-wise, we went to North Carolina a couple of weeks ago for my oldest baby brother's wedding. It was beautiful, and the time spent with family afterwords was blissfully stress free. Now that we are back its back to lessons, getting gifts made for Christmas, and preparing for my In Laws to come for a visit. We haven't seen them in so long, it will be great to have them while we prep for the holidays.<br /><br />That's about it as far as a catch-up. I hope to post a little about our homeschool days soon, but most days we are all so tired from having fun and learning, the thought of mindfully putting a post together just doesn't sound appealing. Hope you are all having a wonderful week!<br /><br /></div>The Fambroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14933322992755542099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1869894160005662839.post-13607654710716061412011-09-20T07:46:00.002-04:002011-09-20T08:04:46.206-04:00Total Health Tuesday<div style="text-align: center;">So apparently I have not gotten back int o my blogging routine again have I? Opps :)<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Getting back into a routine is so hard, why do we ever change our routine in the first place? This summer has been awesome, and we are already a month into our homeschool year, but throughout all of that some things have taken a back seat in the priorities department.<br />Namely food.<br />I believe that I have said it before but I seem to have such a problem keeping a watchful eye on quantity and quality of my food AND a regular exercise routine.<br />America truly does run on Dunkin Donuts here and I fell intot he trap of Coffee Coolattas and Mini Mart snacks just because I was tired and didn't want to be mindful.<br />Yes, I was logging my food in to a Calorie counter, but I would just skip that day if I had a "no-no" food.<br />So after much thought I decided to attack my diet like I did my workout slump.<br />I'm paying for it.<br />When I wasn't <span style="font-style: italic;">loving</span> getting up at 5 am to sweat it out, I began to just sleep in, so I joined the Y.<br />I'm not <span style="font-style: italic;">loving</span> logging my foods, so I took advantage of Weight Watchers buy 3 months get 1 free deal and signed up for the online plan.<br />If I pay for it. I must use it. Otherwise I will rack myself with guilt.<br />Both of these avenues are/will help me get back into my routine. It's not that I absolutely can't do this on my own. Just right now I won't. So I need some kind of incentive to push me along until I find my grove again.<br />I can tell you its working. I miss working out when I don't and have even found an early morning jogging buddy to satisfy those days where I just can't make it to the gym. Eventually it will be too cold to run with her in the morning and then I will dust off my treadmill, but until then she is helping me establish my routine.<br />And Rhythm.<br />They work.<br />Don't stop.<br />Let the momentum of your success carry you.<br />The food department is better too. I'm learning just HOW horrible those quick snacks are. And that just because we eat healthy most of the time, the times we don't really add up so I'm learning control when it comes to the fun stuff.<br /><br />Hmm getting back into the swing of things is so hard. I hope I never stop again.<br /><br /><br /></div>The Fambroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14933322992755542099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1869894160005662839.post-4095225168347980072011-09-06T07:24:00.003-04:002011-09-06T07:50:01.436-04:00Total Health Tuesday.... More is not always better.<div style="text-align: center;">In my realm of health there has been little to report as far as new.<br />All summer long I used my membership to the Y and even recruited a couple of friends to become my running buddies.<br />We run the Couch to 5k program together on the treadmills which is awesome because we can all run at our own pace but still be beside one another to offer encouragement... or to yell to go faster!<br />While I have gotten a little faster in my runs and have been able to increase my weights for my strength training, I have not really lost any more weight or inches.<br />And my acne is super flared.<br />And that makes me frustrated.<br />So I went to the Dr. for my check-up and told her all about it. To which she smiled and encouraged me to keep on keeping on. Its gona be harder for me, just remember anything I do positive is working more on the inside than I know.<br />Words I'm grateful for, but they don't move the scale, or clear the acne, or get my insides working to make a baby.<br />So she put me on a diuretic to try and clear up my skin.<br />To which I had an allergic reaction.<br />As in I wanted to claw the itchy skin from my body allergic reaction. Oh and stubborn me waited over a week to go back to the Dr.<br />And so I was put on MORE meds for the itchies.<br />I have now had to devise a system for keeping up with my medication. I feel old. :(<br />And did you know that you can start having an allergic reaction to one thing and then continue to have an allergic reaction when it is out of your system and you have introduced something else?<br />Well you can. And that something else is....<br />STRESS!<br />And while I don't really think one thing put me over the edge, I have not taken a lot of time for me to chill and refocus lately. So I've been runnin' on empty.<br />Well, empty and Coffee Coolattas.<br />So I think my body did the only thing it could do to stop me.<br />Break out in huge red itchy blotches that irritate so bad I can't focus on anything else in the world period.<br />Yeah that ought to do it. :)<br />So, while some things cannot be cut back on, I have made it a necessity to critically look at all our current engagements and future ones to pare back or at least share the load with Mike or friends.<br />Because apparently I try to do it all myself and then hold it in when I become overwhelmed.<br />Who me? (insert sheepish grin)<br /><br />Anything new with you? Any progress or setbacks? Sound off in the comments below!<br /></div>The Fambroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14933322992755542099noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1869894160005662839.post-38392585590212501732011-09-01T20:56:00.005-04:002011-09-01T21:45:40.815-04:00Hello...My Name is Allison... and I am a slacker! Boy oh Boy I did not mean to take the entire summer off blogging but once we got fairly settled into our new place our social agenda filled up quick!
<br /><div style="text-align: center;">The thing about coming off a hard winter and an even harder relocation adjustment is once the sun comes out again EVERYBODY wants to do SOMETHING!
<br />We went to cookouts, swam, took swim lessons, worked out, met LOADS of people, said goodbye to a few and welcomed more into our circle of "instant family".
<br />We read books, weathered a hurricane, lost power, cooked and caught a variety of seafood for the first time, celebrated my Dad's 50th birthday, laughed, cried, and fell into our beds each night blissfully exhausted to have finally found our "spot" in this new to us world.
<br />
<br />We have already started back to school and are looking forward to all the cool stuff lined up. I'm so torn on how fast the summer went so we are still spending as much time outdoors as possible. But I hope to return to my "regular" blog routine soon.
<br />Now I will leave you with some special moments from the season...
<br />
<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-upvrVKTRgrY/TmAxVTK0G0I/AAAAAAAAB2Q/qTIJhQcFMes/s1600/Recital%2Band%2Bmore%2B030.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-upvrVKTRgrY/TmAxVTK0G0I/AAAAAAAAB2Q/qTIJhQcFMes/s320/Recital%2Band%2Bmore%2B030.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647568174715247426" border="0" /></a>
<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pkf7mTWyrKg/TmAxVOcUthI/AAAAAAAAB2I/o1e16SL2PSE/s1600/Recital%2Band%2Bmore%2B022.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pkf7mTWyrKg/TmAxVOcUthI/AAAAAAAAB2I/o1e16SL2PSE/s320/Recital%2Band%2Bmore%2B022.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647568173446510098" border="0" /></a>
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jR5CD1WSi7c/TmAxUyxLndI/AAAAAAAAB2A/n90RuFh3L4w/s1600/100_0318.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jR5CD1WSi7c/TmAxUyxLndI/AAAAAAAAB2A/n90RuFh3L4w/s320/100_0318.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647568166017801682" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">hello dinner...</span>
<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jMcdN0tYNKI/TmAxOKeVCgI/AAAAAAAAB14/nJWczD7Znfg/s1600/100_0315.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jMcdN0tYNKI/TmAxOKeVCgI/AAAAAAAAB14/nJWczD7Znfg/s320/100_0315.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647568052122094082" border="0" /></a>
<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jpkvFOUgcZ0/TmAxN7-yJVI/AAAAAAAAB1w/P-4A1xkuvhU/s1600/100_0302.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jpkvFOUgcZ0/TmAxN7-yJVI/AAAAAAAAB1w/P-4A1xkuvhU/s320/100_0302.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647568048231687506" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Maiden voyage of "the boat".</span>
<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bVWjOIMKL_s/TmAxN81mVaI/AAAAAAAAB1o/pTeYcWjs24U/s1600/100_0299.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-bVWjOIMKL_s/TmAxN81mVaI/AAAAAAAAB1o/pTeYcWjs24U/s320/100_0299.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647568048461600162" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Summer concerts mean showing off splits right?</span>
<br /><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BfO0_3zorvA/TmAxNj1Se7I/AAAAAAAAB1g/MBpWPiTq6V8/s1600/100_0287.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-BfO0_3zorvA/TmAxNj1Se7I/AAAAAAAAB1g/MBpWPiTq6V8/s320/100_0287.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647568041749412786" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Libraries are awesome! Look what we found!</span>
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1TbuX1uWTP8/TmAxNc0xS7I/AAAAAAAAB1Y/igxcsBBP29g/s1600/100_0286.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1TbuX1uWTP8/TmAxNc0xS7I/AAAAAAAAB1Y/igxcsBBP29g/s320/100_0286.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647568039868189618" border="0" /></a>
<br /><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Eur_IYbRLbw/TmAxFFH5P8I/AAAAAAAAB1Q/8JucLhNB9P0/s1600/100_0260.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Eur_IYbRLbw/TmAxFFH5P8I/AAAAAAAAB1Q/8JucLhNB9P0/s320/100_0260.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647567896066998210" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Jakob discovered Captain America</span>
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fwQzuQqb280/TmAxE2mvqnI/AAAAAAAAB1I/y7sSsW9upcI/s1600/100_0243.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 235px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fwQzuQqb280/TmAxE2mvqnI/AAAAAAAAB1I/y7sSsW9upcI/s320/100_0243.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647567892169861746" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Fun times with cousins..</span>
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z0uJ82Mju7w/TmAxE_Bzw8I/AAAAAAAAB1A/p--KqcqMslE/s1600/100_0180.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-z0uJ82Mju7w/TmAxE_Bzw8I/AAAAAAAAB1A/p--KqcqMslE/s320/100_0180.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647567894430860226" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Daddy turned 50</span>
<br /><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u2bUbfap56w/TmAxEvVAJGI/AAAAAAAAB04/zGmoFlbL2k0/s1600/100_0168.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-u2bUbfap56w/TmAxEvVAJGI/AAAAAAAAB04/zGmoFlbL2k0/s320/100_0168.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647567890216395874" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">Grandma spoiled us with a trip to the nail salon</span>
<br /><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b0FP53qvrVo/TmAxEtCltrI/AAAAAAAAB0w/vI0S_G4QogQ/s1600/100_0163.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 240px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-b0FP53qvrVo/TmAxEtCltrI/AAAAAAAAB0w/vI0S_G4QogQ/s320/100_0163.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5647567889602295474" border="0" /></a>
<br />
<br /></div>The Fambroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14933322992755542099noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1869894160005662839.post-90166163971483888972011-06-14T07:09:00.003-04:002011-06-14T07:48:07.419-04:00Total Health Tuesday- General Update<div style="text-align: center;">There are two new tools in my fitness toolbox now.<br />1: We joined the YMCA and I have been able to get back into strength training and not just cardio<br />2. So I don't JUST do the weights at the gym I downloaded the Couch to 5k app for my IPod.<br />Both have proven really motivating in getting my sweat on. <br />Since we go to the Y 3x a week I am still just running on the "off days" but hope to incorporate a bit of strength and/or flexibility work as well, that will require me to dig out my pilates dvds and search netflix for some inspiration.<br />I just don't push myself as hard at home.<br /><br />I also have looked back through my fitness logs and food logs and realized that often I am not "good" on both. I may work out like a mad man OR eat like a rabbit, but never together. I am trying to be a bit more aware of that. Our CSA share starting up really helps as it has pushed lots of leafy greens in the kitchen that I may or may not always reach for. Salads are a staple for now and I'm trying to find fun healthy ways to sneak spinach in for me and the kids. (Because although its super yummy, spinach artichoke dip with crackers is not the best choice)<br />Lately food wise my biggest obstacle is the weekend.<br />As the weather has improved everyone wants to get together and chow down. Which is great for this winter weary Southern Girl who got just a bit more lonely than she let on, but not so great for my wavering willpower as often times grilling out means lots of processed foods and sugary desserts.<br />My gluten rebelling belly is trying to help me out by reminding me with not so subtle pain after each offense. It helps, but not always as I am not yet used to thinking about all the things I shouldn't or cannot have and often time plop something in my mouth without thinking ( another problem).<br />Physically wise I am noticing an increase in energy, now that I am not killing myself first thing in the morning for workouts and spending much needed reflection time. Also I have lost all but one pound of the 5 I gained during the move process. Its a success, but I won't truly start counting it until I get back to where I was before the move.<br /><br />That's a general update on health here. No real news or accomplishments with the PCOS, but I am confident the more weight I lose and the more aware of food that my body does and doesn't need I am, then my insides will begin coming online again. ;)<br />How's ur Summer going? Is it easier to eat healthy now for you or harder?<br /></div>The Fambroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14933322992755542099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1869894160005662839.post-36859131946859470212011-06-12T20:25:00.004-04:002011-06-13T07:10:31.184-04:00Menu Monday<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://orgjunkie.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/bbqmpmbutton.bmp"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 309px; height: 141px;" src="http://orgjunkie.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/05/bbqmpmbutton.bmp" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">This week I find myself with a plethora of veggies.<br />Our summer CSA has started and I am extremely thrilled with the amount of Yum in my fridge right now.<br />That being said, we have to eat this stuff quick so it doesn't go to waste. Seems like with our recent hectic schedule that pick up day comes so quick.<br /><br />Here's what we have this week.<br />Breakfast:<br />Smoothie<br />Oatmeal<br />Eggs<br />Pancakes<br />Muffins<br />Granola and Yogurt<br /><br />Lunch:<br />Leftovers<br />Sandwiches and Salad (or fruit)<br />Tuna and crackers<br />Veggies and Hummus<br /><br />Dinner:<br /><a href="http://www.animalvegetablemiracle.com/EGGS%20IN%20A%20NEST.pdf">Eggs in a Nest </a>(Leftover from last week's menu)<br />Spinach Calzone<br />Broccoli Casserole<br />Potato Soup (for the rainy day)<br />Spinach Strawberry and Walnut Salad (a recipe from our CSA newsletter)<br />Spinach and Cheese quesadillas<br /><br />Can you tell we have a bit of Spinach? Anyone have any tried and true Smoothie recipes with Spinach or Kale that are kid friendly? Or do I just throw a handful in when they're not looking and go with it?<br /><br />Also I finally found a stash of Bob's Red Mill flours of various kinds at a local shop so I will be experimenting with a loaf bread and pita bread and tortillas. I hope to at least find a decent loaf bread solution soon as paying $3 a loaf for spelt bread it a little pricey.<br /><br />For more ideas on summer nourishment head over to <a href="http://orgjunkie.com/category/menu-plan-monday">Org Junkie</a> and check out their Menu.<br /></div>The Fambroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14933322992755542099noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1869894160005662839.post-82057100895653117192011-06-10T06:17:00.004-04:002011-06-10T06:22:39.888-04:00this moment-<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yt9jRlrPjoM/TfHwLXco-MI/AAAAAAAAB0Q/y2kiTGiAdRg/s1600/100_9982-1.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-yt9jRlrPjoM/TfHwLXco-MI/AAAAAAAAB0Q/y2kiTGiAdRg/s320/100_9982-1.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5616534288371087554" border="0" /></a>The Fambroshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14933322992755542099noreply@blogger.com0