National Margarita Day

Today is National Margarita Day! 

I love margaritas! 

Especially on a warm summer day. 

Okay, so it's not quite summer yet, but I'm still planning on enjoying a couple margies after work. 

Hope everyone is having a fabulous Friday! 

Revved up!

After falling off the radar for 2 weeks (being sick, then son was sick, then I was sick again), I'm back! This time with more support. My husband and I met with a friend who is a personal trainer. He created our health profiles looking at where we were and where we should be. His special tools were VERY detailed (showed us our body fat, visceral fat, body mass, how heavy we were on our bones, how old our body thought we were based on our weight and more). Lets just say it was VERY enlightening. Even with losing 20 lbs on my own, I realized I have a long way to go and really need to step it up. He then set us up on a nutrition and supplement plan (no diet pills). The supplements are natural and good for you. We are super excited!

I'm starting fresh on MyFitnessPal (calorie counter app). I reset my weight and I'm starting over. Kendrick, our trainer and friend, will be following my progress on MyFitnessPal and periodically checking what I'm eating. I'm supposed to eat between 1400-1600 calories a day (I picked 1500 to make it easy). I'll be working out 4-6 days a week, shooting for 4 only on busy weeks and 5-6 days on a regular week. I'll be going to bootcamp every Sunday, schedule permitting. I'm revved up and ready to drop the weight and get into the best shape of my life!

Thanks for reading!

Happy New Year!

It’s a New Year! Each year, when January creeps back, I wonder where the past year went. It came and went so quickly. 2012 was no exception. In fact, it came and went by even quicker than previous years.  That would be attributed to our son who is now 19 months old.  Life with a toddler is, well in one word… busy. But it has been the best ride of our lives and each day, I find myself growing more obsessed with my little man!  2012 also came with its share of struggles, let downs, great times, smiles, laughter and tears.  I lost some things/people in 2012, but I gained a new perspective in 2013.  I feel refreshed and rejuvenated and ready for 2013.  I didn’t make a “resolution” this year. Instead, I decided to take control of things I haven’t had a lot of control over.  No, I take that back. I decided to take control of things I had control over but never seized. 

2013 is my year to seize!

So no resolution this year, instead I made a list of goals for myself that I hope to achieve throughout 2013.  Some are about me, my family, my marriage, my home, our finances, our hopes and our future…

Goals:

1.       Achieve a happier and healthier you. Focus on your goals; physically, mentally and emotionally in 2013. A happier and healthier you equals a happier and healthier individual, marriage, family and life. This will be my big goal in 2013 and encompasses every aspect of my life.  A large part of this is meeting my fitness goals.  I hope to be in the best shape of my life in 2013. 

2.       Stop worrying about who has come into your life, who is hanging on by a thread and who has left. You have a lot to offer in your friendships and relationships – focus on the amazing people in your life that add happiness and joy to it.  Don’t worry about the rest, especially the ones who don’t understand or respect you, those that truly aren’t adding to your life.   

3.       Set financial goals, work on plans for prospective investments and save, save, save.

4.       Finish making a “home!” Since moving in, we’ve made a few big changes to our house (painting and chair rails) and a few small things to our house. As I make our house a “home” I hope I am able to finally finish decorating, furnishing and getting my home where I want it! This includes working on one-two projects a month – whether that be finishing the entryway, putting up crown molding, turning the bedroom that has become a storage unit into an actual home office, or the many other things I want to do to our home. My hope is to have our home the way we envision it by the end of the 2013 – that way come 2014, I can focus on another goal, expanding our family.

5.       Be happy. I feel incredibly blessed to have all that I have.  We work hard for everything we have. Nothing has been handed to us on a silver platter – in the end, I just want to be happy. I hope 2013 brings us great happiness.

What are your goals for 2013?

Wishing all of you a a happy 2013 - envision your goals, and then work hard to meet them! Good luck!

Reminder

2012 has been a rough year.  There have been many ups and downs and a few surprise bumps along the way. Regardless of the struggles, I find myself having to reach deep down inside and remind myself how lucky I am. I don’t live in a country, city, or neighborhood where I run from bombs flying overhead. I don’t worry that my trip to the local supermarket could result in me being shot by a sniper. I have food on my table. My son is clothed, fed, happy and healthy. My marriage surpasses every test it endures – after 10 years of dating, and 3 years married, we are standing stronger than ever. I have friends I can turn to when I am feeling incredibly stressed, tired, sad and happy. I have parents I can count on for anything. They never fail me. No matter how much we disagree, argue, butt heads; I have a family I can always turn to. They remind me that we come from a working class family. We are living the American Dream. The term “American dream” is used in many ways, but it essentially is an idea that suggests that anyone in the US can succeed through hard work and has the potential to lead a happy, successful life. Many people have expanded upon or refined the definition to include things such as freedom, fulfillment and meaningful relationships. Someone who manages to achieve his or her version of the American dream is often said to be “living the dream.” We are “living the dream.” And sometimes that dream consists of obstacles along the way. Nothing has ever been handed down to Avin and I, or spoon fed to us. Everything we have, we worked damn hard to have. What we don’t have, we can live without or will work hard to get, if we really want it. In the meantime, we make sacrifices, we work hard, we save; we put our love, our family and our son first and foremost. I needed to remind myself of how lucky I am. I have a roof over my head, and the home that roof shelters is full of love, laughter and joy. I am thankful for that this Thanksgiving, this holiday season and as this 2012 year creeps to an end.  I have to remind myself that I don’t have it all, I may never, but I will always overcome any hardships we may endure, I will always find the light – it will be okay. Breathe. Smile. Find solutions. You have a happy marriage, an amazing family, the best of friends, a beautiful home, and most of all, you have a beautiful, healthy, happy little boy who loves you with no limitations.

It's been awhile...

November Update:

Life has been insanely busy these last couple of months.  Well, it’s always busy, but I haven’t had much time to blog…

For one, my son was sick with a fever, cold/cough, and an ear infection. I was exhausted.  Caring for a toddler is one thing, caring for a sick toddler is a whole other ball game.  Thankfully, he’s all better now.  I’ve also been going through some personal things. It was brought to my attention that I wasn’t there for someone in the way they needed me to be. At first, I got defensive.  I think it’s natural to put your guard up. Especially when I know, I’m a damn good friend. I take pride in being a great friend to others.  So naturally, I was upset when this was brought to my attention. And then, I thought about it. I ended up talking to three of my closest girlfriends and really got a grasp and understanding of the situation from another perspective. It helped me see that I can only do so much. Sometimes, we can only give so much of ourselves before we compromise who we are. I’ve also realized that being a mother is going to affect some of my friendships – because my son is my number one priority in life – I want to stand on a rooftop and shout out how much joy he brings to my life.  If my friends can’t prioritize me and the most important aspects of my life into their life (namely, my son) then that friendship isn’t based on solid grounds. I’m not sure what the future holds for that friendship, but I was content with my response and have realized that I have done all I can do. I’m at peace with that. I was also going through my own personal self-reflection regarding matters I’d rather not go into detail about. I had to really reevaluate myself, my life and my happiness.  It was rough, but I had to remind myself; I am resilient, I am a fighter and I won’t settle for anything less than happiness.  So that’s where I’m at; working on me, learning about my shortcomings, and finding ways to move forward.  And I feel great! Perfect timing as one of my favorite holidays is next week: Thanksgiving!

I love this time of year. The air is cool and crisp, the sun is still shining, the holidays are upon us… it’s a great time to reflect and be “thankful.” I have so much to be thankful for. Sometimes I lose sight of that… I have a husband who loves me dearly. I have the most amazing, beautiful son. I have family that is always by my side. And the best girlfriends I could ever ask for. I have a house we made into a home. A cute dog who makes me laugh. I don’t have fancy thousand dollar purses, I can’t afford to go on shopping sprees in Santana Row, but I’m happy.

And that, my friends, is good enough for me.

Now it’s crunch time. Like everyone else, we have plans with our families next week. I’m also trying to organize fun activities for Elijah and I (or the three of us, when Avin isn’t working) to do things to keep us busy and out of the house (weather permitting). I’m thinking of going to the Children’s Museum – I hear it’s great and haven’t been there yet.  I also heard of a great place called the Art Beast.  Apparently, Art Beast is a studio that provides “open studio space, arts exploration rooms, and loads of classes so that children can dig into the arts.”  I LOVE the idea and the pictures from their website of children covered in paint, and having the time of their lives is adorable!  I’m going to try to check it out during Thanksgiving break with Elijah. I think he’ll LOVE it.  

If you want to look into it, here are the links: Art Beast Studio or Sacramento Children's Museum.

 Here are pictures from Elijah this morning. Enjoy!

And thanks for visiting my blog!

 

20 Things a Mother Should Tell Her Son

I found this on pinterest and LOVED it! A list of 20 things every mother should tell her son.  I will definitely be doing many, if not all, of these with Elijah. It's important to me that I raise a kind young man. 

 

20 Things a Mother Should Tell Her Son

1. You will set the tone for the sexual relationship, so don't take something away from her that you can't give back.

2. Play a sport. It will teach you how to win honorably, lose gracefully, respect authority, work with others, manage your time and stay out of trouble. And maybe even throw or catch.

3. Use careful aim when you pee. Somebody's got to clean that up, you know.

4. Save money when you're young because you're going to need it some day.

5. Allow me to introduce you to the dishwasher, oven, washing machine, iron, vacuum, mop and broom. Now please go use them.

6. Pray and be a spiritual leader.

7. Don't ever be a bully and don't ever start a fight, but if some idiot clocks you, please defend yourself.

8. Your knowledge and education is something that nobody can take away from you.

9. Treat women kindly. Forever is a long time to live alone and it's even longer to live with somebody who hates your guts.

10. Take pride in your appearance.

11. Be strong and tender at the same time.

12. A woman can do everything that you can do. This includes her having a successful career and you changing diapers at 3 A.M. Mutual respect is the key to a good relationship.

13. "Yes ma'am" and "yes sir" still go a long way.

14. The reason that they're called "private parts" is because they're "private". Please do not scratch them in public.

15. Peer pressure is a scary thing. Be a good leader and others will follow.

16. Bringing her flowers for no reason is always a good idea.

17. Be patriotic.

18. Potty humor isn't the only thing that's humorous.

19. Please choose your spouse wisely. My daughter-in-law will be the gatekeeper for me spending time with you and my grandchildren.

20. Remember to call your mother because I might be missing you.

Read the original post here: 20 Things a Mother Should Tell Her Son

CUTS FOR A CAUSE!

I received an email from a friend (passed on to her) regarding a great event – Cuts for a Cause!

Lace Salon, in Old Sacramento, will be hosting a “Sustainable Beauty Day” on Monday, October 15, 2012, from 10am-7pm.  Lace stylists will offer haircuts for a $20 minimum donation.  All proceeds will go toward planting trees in impoverished areas.

How awesome is that! IHair cuts usually run $40-50 here. I’ve set my appointment, you should too!

For additional information about this event, or any other event, please visit Lace Salon or call (916) 205-0206.

Toddlerhood...

As my son gets older - he is now 16 months old - I am excited for all that comes with parenting and toddlerhood. I always here people frowning upon this time in our childrens lives. I get it - tantrums, fights, their at an age where they are testing us - "the terrible two's." I firmly believe that it's only "terrible" if we make it so. I don't look at this age as a negative step I will undoubtingly go through. I look forward to it.  Elijah is growing so fast. I remember when he used to fit into my arms - his entire body. Now his long legs dangle over my arms.  It makes me sad to see his infancy passing by but I'm also excited to watch him grow. My son is so much fun!

As I did during my pregnancy, I continue to research, read and explore ideas I can incorporate into my family, with my son, my home, etc.  As a sociologist, researching comes with the territory. 

Lately, I've been pinning like crazy (pinterest) and I've found a ton of great resources I'm pinning related to toddlerhood.  Here are some great activities I think parents with toddlers will enjoy! Try them out, and leave a comment, if you get a chance, and tell me what you think!

ARTICLES FOR PARENTS WITH TODDLERS:

Disciplining WITHOUT Yelling

10 Chore Ideas For Toddlers

50 Activities Just For Your Toddler

100 Ways to Entertain a Toddler

How-To Teach Your Toddler All 50 States (numbers, ABCs, etc)

Make Edible (cool whip) Paint! - Great for Babies and Toddlers!

10 Creative Ways to Make Time For Your Kids - Great for working/busy parents!

Sensory Play For Kids

5 Things To Help In Potty Training

Play Through the Day - Great blog with toddler activities by an early childhood educator!

Best Tantrum Tricks!

15 SUPER FUN Baths for Kids

How To Teach Your Baby To Swim!

Here's a fun fall craft you can do with your toddler - all you need is paper, water colors and their cute hand/arm!!!


To see all the other great things I've pinned in regards to kids, follow me on pinterest and check out my "KIDS STUFF" board (link to follow me is on left-hand column) :)

ENJOY!

"To see life through the eyes of a child is to be truly free" - Anonymous.

Slugs and snails and puppy-dogs' tails, that's what little boys are made of...

A recent post on pinterest titled "20 Things no one told you about raising a boy" inspired this blog post.

Parenting is a learning process, and Elijah teaches me something new daily.  The way a boy loves his mother is so amazing, I can’t get enough of it. I’ve become obsessed with him.  I just adore him. 

Reading the article 20 Things No One Told You About Raising A boy from ivillage.com was great! It made me laugh (especially the part about the “penis obsession” and those infant/toddler boners! Hahahaha, so true). It made me smile and it made me even excited about raising a son. 

As many of you know, I had my first child on my wedding anniversary, May 23, 2011.  A boy. A beautiful, healthy, happy baby boy.  You may not have known that all my life, I wanted a girl, at least first.  I don’t know why. Maybe because I’ve always considered myself a feminist.  Maybe because I hoped to raise a little girl to be more than a pink obsessed barbie-doll. When I found out I was having a boy, I was NEVER disappointed.  I just immediately thought it was going to be a challenge because I didn’t know much about raising a boy (I was around to see my nieces grow up in their infant-toddler years and a lot about raising girls).  Needless to say, having a baby boy changed my life in the most amazing ways.

If you have a son, are pregnant with a boy, or love little boys as much as I do, read the article! It’s pretty awesome!

Ladies Only!

Ladies: What Do YOU Do When You Have Your Period?

Today I'm feeling lazy, unmotivated, tired, and I’m emotionally eating – I feel like crap, so why not eat like crap? Right? Wrong.

Well, Aunt Flo decided to bring her ugly ass back into town this month and with her visit, she brings a fluctuation of hormones that makes me feel like crap! For one, I’m bloated (unfortunately, I was bloated on my birthday and it shows in my pictures). All of a sudden, the 16 lbs. I lost recently feel like they’re all back on. Feeling like I look like crap makes me so unmotivated – I missed my 5am workout this morning.  I tried. I really did.  But I woke up, hit snooze 7,000 times, and stayed in bed with an aching back, and all the yuckiness of that once a month annoyance that comes with being a woman.

I just want to sit on the couch and be fat and lazy and eeeeeeat. Or have a couple drinks and lay around being completely unproductive.  Luckily, my house is stocked with healthier foods. Unluckily, I haven’t gotten rid of the rest of my birthday cake yet, so it was staring at me last night when I was feeling like crap and craving chocolate and lo and behold, I caved.

Knowing the reason why doesn't make the sluggishness go away, but it does give me more determination to push through it. So that is what I’m going to try to do for the rest of the day today, tomorrow and the rest of the week.  Usually when I get my period, I let these feelings linger for a week. ONE WHOLE WEEK! One whole week of eating poorly, not exercising much, and just feeling like poop… I just can’t do that anymore. 

If you're like me, that time of month is a week of weakness. How do you not give into that desire to be a lazy bum? To be quite honest, sometimes it's not so bad to use menstruation as an excuse to slow down and become more introverted.

No, this doesn't mean its okay to stuff our faces full of chocolate in the name of expelling cramps. But it does mean its okay to pamper yourself.

I’ve used my excuse – I had Sunday and Monday to be essentially a lazy bum all day.  Tuesday morning came and I didn’t work out but I am going to take a walk this afternoon and get back to the more intense workouts tomorrow morning (as a means to not waste the whole week being a lazy bum).

Ladies – What do YOU do when you’re combatting all the woes of your monthly visitor?