tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-51274966088266606952024-02-07T03:42:03.021-05:00Running Through Parenthood in HeelsRaising two tow-headed, energetic kids with your best friend requires patience, humor, love, long runs & lots of coffee.
Life is good!mrs.monica @ RTP_inHeelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733835493878516811noreply@blogger.comBlogger422125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5127496608826660695.post-64707792751000570102013-07-22T13:49:00.001-04:002013-07-22T13:49:10.410-04:00Re-entering the Blog-o-Sphere...an update.Good afternoon fellow bloggers. Man have I been out of the game lately. I'm slightly embarrassed and slightly disappointed in myself for letting it go this long. I was so good at updating when T was developing, and B, being the second child, had really gotten the short end of the stick. I royally suck. I have one more month before school starts again, so I'm going to do my best to bring everything up-to-date, as best as I can remember. <br />
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So...for starters...how are T & B doing, you ask?! Amazingly!<br />
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T just turned 6 and had himself a heck of a lazer kraze party. He will be entering 1st grade in August, and I just can't believe I'll be making his lunch for the next million years, and finally getting him off my daycare payroll! yippee! He's been playing baseball this spring and summer, and starts soccer next month. We have finally gotten him to do some strokes in the pool, so that is exciting. He's becoming a freestyle master. I'm hoping he'll do swim team next summer. This summer he's attended baseball camp, a sports camp and will do a fun boys-only camp next week. T is into Skylanders, wii, beyblades, swimming for hours and just being an energetic boy that never stops. I swear, he never gets tired...ever! T lost his first tooth last month. That was a very exciting time. The tooth fairy is now a very expensive endeavor, definitely going above and beyond the .50 I used to get. We decided on a going rate of 5.00, since he said his friend Nolan at school got 20.00 (I mean, who are these parents...and can I borrow some cash?!) We have been making progress on his reading, making him read us 1 book a night. The next 4 weeks before school starts we will be doing a workbook every morning. Hopefully that will help his writing, his achilles heel. I am feeling hopeful that we are making enough progress for him to be successful in 1st grade.<br />
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B is now 2 and is my spirited, girlie, musical chatterbox. She makes everything into a song, literally everything, even waking up singing. B is very opinionated, she wants to do everything "myself" and knows more words than her brother ever did at her age. B is also a fish, she loves the water. She's been taking gymnastics since the winter, will start dance in the fall, and will get a big girl bed around christmas. She has shown interest in potty training, but we haven't really pushed the issue. B loves to kiss everyone, dance, play with Minnie anything, she's getting into babies and loves her play kitchen downstairs. The girl can't get enough of bubbles, and no matter how hard I try, she won't dare get on her brand new minnie scooter I got her for her bday (insert dagger in heart). <br />
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They are the lights of my life! And although days being a SAHM are very hard, I thank God daily I have the opportunity to be with them in the summer. It's really quality time that I will never take for granted, especially as a working mom. <br />
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As far as me and hubs, we have been enjoying the summer months with the kids immensely! We have taken countless trips to the pool, Kings Island, the zoo, the library, hours and hours playing outside, trips to see friends in St. Louis and my family in Michigan and lots of BBQ and bike riding. Summer is the best!!! Hubs is still at his same job, and still loving it (thank God). I'm working on my courses in the summer and gearing up for another year teaching AP bio. My college board scores came back with pretty good results, so I'm happy with my first year's effort. Hopefully next year the load will be lighter. I also coached track in the spring (hence why I fell off the blog-wagon) and am currently coaching girls' cross country (which I love). If you don't remember much about me, running is a HUGE passion of mine. It's part of who I am. I am a marathon runner. Although I enjoyed coaching the sprinters in track, distance is where its at for me. I'm elated to have the opportunity. I've been fortunate enough to figure out a schedule that doesn't take away any time I have with my kids in the summer. I run with them either at night when hubs gets home or REEEEALLLLYYYY early in the morning. It was a sacrifice I was willing to make so as to maximize my time as a SAHM with my kids. It's been working out great! Hubs and I also like to do some fun athletic things. We ran a half marathon together, did a marathon in the fall and just completed a triathlon this past weekend. </div>
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It gets harder every year trying to fit in what we like to do, and stay in shape, but we manage. It's very important to me. We've been gardening, are putting in a new patio and landscaping in our backyard starting tomorrow (eek) and also tiled our laundry room floor. We've stayed busy, to say the least. </div>
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Our family is growing, as I will be an Aunt for the first time come December. I'm very exited! My brother got married on NYE (more on that later) and they are buying a house in the burbs. My parents and in-laws are doing great, and we are just chugging along. </div>
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I gave away all my baby stuff recently. I cried a little, but afterwards I felt relief. I think I'm ready to move on with my two beautiful, healthy kids. I don't think my body or our house, car or finances can take another little one. I also don't think I have the energy to start over again. It has really helped that all the new babies are coming into my life, a few close friends are also pg, and that I can communicate with my kids and we can do a lot of new things as a family. I always have doubts on whether I'm making a big mistake not having a 3rd, but most days I'm really fine with it. </div>
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More updates to come...I have so much to share with everyone. I'm so glad to be back. It was so sad...I couldn't even remember my log-in for blogger when I started this morning. ::sigh:: such is the life of a very busy working mom and coach and wife and athlete. Just no time for a computer. I missed it! I'm glad to be back to my creative outlet. </div>
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xoxo</div>
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<img align="left" src="http://i1172.photobucket.com/albums/r562/RTP_inHeels/MrsMonicasig.png" style="border: 0;" /> <br />
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<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>mrs.monica @ RTP_inHeelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733835493878516811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5127496608826660695.post-68608322956267281102013-01-08T10:29:00.002-05:002013-01-08T12:40:12.897-05:00Life According to my iPhone: Nov & DecOur lives have been so jam-packed, that my classic camera has been underutilized (for shame), and my iPhone has been in full effect. Such short snip-its of life are just about the best, and quickest way to capture what we've been up to these past couple of months. <br />
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T was playing soccer this fall (he's the blondie in the green participating in the kickoff). He's a scoring machine, and we love watching & cheering him on!<br />
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Get ready for it...yes... ::Gasp:: I'm a democrat...and I live in Ohio. ::insert shock and awe::<br />
I got the opportunity, through a college friend, to attend President Obama's rally. It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience. No matter what side you're on, how many times to you get to be a couple of rows away from the President of the United States. It was unreal! I was ready to move FORWARD. Bonus...I also got to see Stevie Wonder perform, which was fantastic!<br />
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B & I traveled to Chicago for my new sister-in-law's bridal shower (which I helped throw). It was interesting traveling with B alone, but she was a pretty good girl. In the second photo are the bridal shower favors I made, coffee & tea in burlap bags with their initials and the date of their wedding. I was pretty proud of my handiwork.<br />
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There were a couple days when T was in school and I wasn't, so I got to pretend to be a stay-at-home mom and wait in the carpool line. Given I took a picture of my experience, you can tell that was a small thrill for me. Such simple pleasures. While home a few days with the kids, hubs was working, we just hung out and had fun. I very much enjoy my time home with the kids, and appreciate it so much more as a working mommy. The kids are becoming the best of friends!! As B gets older, she has gone from idolizing and following her big brother around (which is also done quite frequently) to actually being included in his master play plans. It makes my heart burst every time I see them play together. I adore it!!!<br />
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This year we headed to Chicago for Thanksgiving. I have only a handful of pictures from our trip, and I feel sad about that. :( It was a very busy time, however, because we ran a 5K, celebrated the holiday, shopped a bit OH AND my brother got married. NBD. lol. They had to throw together a family-only event at the last minute, when the priest told them their marriage at the venue wouldn't be recognized by the church, oops. It was just the parents, siblings and nieces/nephews who attended, but it was a very nice ceremony, and an equally amazing Italian lunch. I have a few non-iPhone photos I'll post later. I am lucky in that I adore my new sister-in-law AND her loving and sweet family. We are very blessed. My parents have already mentioned how lucky we are in in-laws. We truly get along with all of them, and genuinely want to spend time as one big family. It's a gift. Here are the iPhone pics of our stay with my parents.</div>
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T helping with the rolls</div>
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B enjoying some quiet time with her Granddad</div>
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We also started prep for the wedding/reception for my brother and his new wife. The kids had to try on their new digs. </div>
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T was having a blast picking out a new suit. He's such a ham.</div>
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B is starting to fight back when her big brother picks on her. She was showing Grams & Granddad some of her new moves</div>
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We also got to spend some quality time with my high school bff and her family. She just recently moved in down the road from my parents, which is an added bonus during our visits! The kids had a blast!</div>
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Uncle Brent came over to help us prep our laundry room for my most recent hair-brained diy project...tiling! I'm lucky hubby didn't kill me for this one...but it was a bumpy success!</div>
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<span style="text-align: left;">We conquered a few more projects around the house in December. We got rid of B's booster seat for good, and brought up this kids table we had in their playroom. It's been a HUGE success (despite the constant "sit downs" we have to say during meals). B loves to sit with her big bro. </span></div>
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We also got a new TV & stand for our family room, so the older TV went down to our basement. We are excited to finally have a space in our finished basement that feels adequate enough to entertain, and is not overwrought with toys. We put in shelving, a new storage system for the toys, and got tons of organizational bins for our living space. I am elated with how it turned out. We have utilized it so much more than we ever have, and it's only been a couple of weeks. It's really nice to have a big couch and TV that hubs and I can lounge on while the kids play. Plus (bonus for the OCD'er) everything has a place. Ahhhh organization...I just LOVE it!! T got a wii for Christmas and B got a big kitchen, so the organization helped us find space for those items as well. It's a beautiful thing. I even convinced T to give away some of his toys to other girls and boys who needed them...and he did it willingly. </div>
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Our carpets were cleaned, we put up pictures that have been waiting to be hung, hubs organized his garage, and we were generally very productive before the holidays. Love it!!</div>
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T has been very involved in after-school activities, and I just accepted an opportunity to coach varsity track at my school. We are in indoor season now. T does wrestling 2 times a week with a local club (hubs was a wrestler) and swims once a week. I have track practice 3 times a week. I wanted to get B in mommy and me gymnastics, but the only time they have free for the working folk is Saturdays at 10am, and I selfishly REFUSE to give up my spin class AND my family-time on the weekends. Such is life. We'll get her involved when she turns 2, and when I'm home in the summer with the kids. That's okay right? Right? Ugh, second-guessing your parenting decisions just never ends. We are just busy busy busy.<br />
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Check out this hilarious wrestling photo. OMG! Freaking hysterical! My sweet boy looks so serious, and mean:)<br />
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While T was in his last couple days of school before holiday break, B and I checked out the running gear at Dicks. She's a track star in the making! :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd5cNY-VA1grQ2Lnljzw6bR3WgzRjCGlfQy5Bm970LJsm8W1QdaE7NJP347AzyDylEEU2HccgPQsCURbTVD79Xv0ghZ3fH-PKWAIExeNhzYYK5VcNlgLLzEkpwKX3JrYAsmBGQEVl9h4U/s1600/photo+%252810%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd5cNY-VA1grQ2Lnljzw6bR3WgzRjCGlfQy5Bm970LJsm8W1QdaE7NJP347AzyDylEEU2HccgPQsCURbTVD79Xv0ghZ3fH-PKWAIExeNhzYYK5VcNlgLLzEkpwKX3JrYAsmBGQEVl9h4U/s1600/photo+%252810%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> </a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd5cNY-VA1grQ2Lnljzw6bR3WgzRjCGlfQy5Bm970LJsm8W1QdaE7NJP347AzyDylEEU2HccgPQsCURbTVD79Xv0ghZ3fH-PKWAIExeNhzYYK5VcNlgLLzEkpwKX3JrYAsmBGQEVl9h4U/s1600/photo+%252810%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd5cNY-VA1grQ2Lnljzw6bR3WgzRjCGlfQy5Bm970LJsm8W1QdaE7NJP347AzyDylEEU2HccgPQsCURbTVD79Xv0ghZ3fH-PKWAIExeNhzYYK5VcNlgLLzEkpwKX3JrYAsmBGQEVl9h4U/s1600/photo+%252810%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd5cNY-VA1grQ2Lnljzw6bR3WgzRjCGlfQy5Bm970LJsm8W1QdaE7NJP347AzyDylEEU2HccgPQsCURbTVD79Xv0ghZ3fH-PKWAIExeNhzYYK5VcNlgLLzEkpwKX3JrYAsmBGQEVl9h4U/s1600/photo+%252810%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a>Overall, we've just been enjoying as much family time as we can. B & T are having a blast playing together, and we're over-scheduled as per usual. Teaching AP bio is still kicking my butt, over and over again. I think I get ahead and then I work until 1am some nights...I can't get a good grasp on it. Hopefully after a full year of teaching it, I'll have a handle on how I want to run it more efficiently next year. ::Breath::<br />
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My babies are just growing so fast. I just need to learn to slow down a bit and take notice.<br />
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Hope this post-and-run finds you all well. I hope you come back to read about our family more often. My New Years resolution is to not let blogging be ignored for such large chunks of time. I won't be able to be back in my summer blogging mode, but more frequent blurbs would be nice. Blogging is an important outlet for me, and a great way to look back at how my family is changing. I feel like I am doing B a disservice by not updating her progress as she grows. ::shame on me::</div>
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Until next time...if you need anything...call my secretaries. They're on it. lol.</div>
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mrs.monica @ RTP_inHeelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733835493878516811noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5127496608826660695.post-67593804393725660242012-11-18T11:50:00.002-05:002012-11-18T11:50:27.401-05:00Captain America & His Angel Arrive**Readers, scroll down until you see a post you've read already...I went update crazy today**<br />
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Happy Halloween...ish. Okay, I'm about half a month late. Better late than never. This year T went as Captain America (he's still obsessed with superheroes...and we have almost all the costumes). I bought a 2.00 costume last year for B...gotta love Halloween clearance..so thankfully it fit. No scouring the local Halloween stores or fighting the crowds at Target this year. It was seamless. Both dressed up at daycare. T was allowed to go to Kindergarten in his costume, and he wasn't supposed to. I was a bit irked that the daycare let him get on the bus fully Captain America-a-fide, and that his kindergarten teacher allowed him to wear it all day long (he was the ONLY one...mortified working mama here)...but such is life. He didn't seem to mind. T trick-or-treated for the two hour window and brought home more candy than his humanly possible to eat in a year. B and I struggled to stand outside in the cold rain to hand out our own candy. It was kinda miserable...but I stuck it out. I'm not a huge fan of this holiday either...given I feel like I'm contributing to the obesity of kids, and our own household...alas...I keep up the the Jonses and I comply...for my kids. <br />
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Really mom?! <br />
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Our Captain<br />
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An attempt to photograph them both in the freezing rain<br />
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"Candy"<br />
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Hubs and I also attended a Halloween party this year as Mario & Luigi. I think it was one of my better ideas. It was easy and comfortable. I got to be the skinny one :)<br />
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Put another Halloween in the record books. Now onto my absolute favorite holiday...Thanksgiving. I think it's one of the only holidays left that is (mostly) pure. Although Walmart is doing their best to taint it...::sigh:: Can't wait for the feast and giving thanks with my family...oh and a fun-filled 5K (yippee!!!). <br />
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<img align="left" src="http://i1172.photobucket.com/albums/r562/RTP_inHeels/MrsMonicasig.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /> <br />
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<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>mrs.monica @ RTP_inHeelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733835493878516811noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5127496608826660695.post-39867732938487958542012-11-18T11:31:00.001-05:002012-11-18T11:31:27.555-05:00Falling into the Season 2012I'm still struggling to catch up, after a long blog hiatus (read work is killing me and we are drastically over scheduled). Fall is, by far, my favorite season. Pumpkin spice lattes, football, leave piles, fun outside activities, back-to-school excitement, and I love fall fashion. Hubs, the kids and I have been enjoying the fall season. <br />
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Our annual trip to the local pumpkin patch was also a success. We had to schedule and reschedule it a few times due to other family events and weather issues...but we got there a few days before Halloween. ::phew::<br />
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this one cracks me up...it's a "mama" moment. She wanted her mommy. lol.<br />
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Then we carved our loot<br />
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Just in time for Halloween...we were in the spirit. Costumes to come next. <br />
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<img align="left" src="http://i1172.photobucket.com/albums/r562/RTP_inHeels/MrsMonicasig.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /> <br />
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<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>mrs.monica @ RTP_inHeelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733835493878516811noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5127496608826660695.post-49997853143451837372012-11-18T11:03:00.002-05:002012-11-18T11:56:42.581-05:00These ARE NOT My ChildrenI'm hoping all I'm going to divulge will be a phase in their lives. I don't want to wish away any special time watching my kiddos grow. But...I can definitely do without these issues...<br />
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The last few weeks have been a series of growing pains and comedies of error around here. We are dealing with some major changes in our household, as well as suffering from over-scheduling and the pesky daycare germs. It's been quite a ride. <br />
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T has become quite the talker. Okay, he's always had the gift of gab (my genes...damn) but it's been taken to a new level. A story that could take 1 minute, takes a good 15. We find ourselves saying "get to the point" way to often. He also has picked up some funny words and phrases (oh, the joys of public education and other people's kids): "I'm serious", "I'm not kidding", "like" and "darn it" are the most frequently used these days. We are also having a listening problem. I repeat myself to exhaustion. But, he's a boy...nuf said. <br />
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In school, we have REALLY struggled with organization. Ok, I know what you're thinking, "come on mom, he's only in kindergarten". A part of me understands that, and agrees with you. However, the OCD, type-A, educator in me tells me to nip this in the bud NOW! I foresee a migraines-worth of problems in my future with this kid and homework. He can't find ANYTHING. If he does bring things home, it NEVER actually finds his "take home folder" and is often carried home in his hand and stuck in the daycare bin or crumpled up and thrown in the bottom of his backpack. He has already lost his reading bag, twice, which is supposed to come home everyday. He leaves his hat, gloves, jacket and anything else just about everywhere but home (read the bus, daycare, in his cubby, in daddy's car, etc). It's infuriating. I truly believe beginning good practice early is important. Hubs thinks teaching him sports skills is important, this is the battle I choose to wage with him...his education. I've already become one of THOSE moms, who emails the teacher on a regular basis. I'm an educator. I say, suck it up teacher, it's your job. I deal with crazy parents regularly, and I'm not one of those. I am just concerned, or that's what I tell myself anyway :) So, we continue to try to find new ways for T to stay organized and remember, short of pinning things on his body. Any advice or tools you have found to work would be greatly appreciated.<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><em>I have to admit in an aside, however, that being a working mom to a school-aged child is very hard. I, myself, forget to put money in his bag, sign a permission slip, send his library book to school on the correct day. I'm failing at my own jobs. How can I judge him...ya know.</em></span> <br />
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Who me, mom?! How can you ever be frustrated by this face?!<br />
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Completely different struggles with B, albeit normal ones. We have now entered the hitting and tantrum phase (oh the whining and crying...kill me now). How fun. ::eye roll:: Ever since the daycare moved B to the older room (18-24 months) she has found her inner baby beast...like she entered a game of survival of the fittest and it's hit or be hit (oh, and bitten...twice...fun). It's always nice to have a raging toddler coming at you (or, sadly, the dog) with her hand raised, ready to lay a wallop on you. She hits when she's frustrated, mad, sad, or wants a toy. She aims for the face, and I get the majority of the blows. She also likes to scream bloody murder and throw her head back (no matter where we are). The tantrums aren't horrible. We just put her in timeout and ride it out. I had to be reminded that T was even worse at this age. He used to scoot himself across the floor on his back while screaming and bucking wildly, trying to get attention after we put him in timeout. I have blocked it all out, I guess. We rode his stage out, and he did grow past it, thankfully. Here's hoping B also finds her communication skills, and that they don't include hitting, screaming or throwing herself to the ground. And boy does this girl like the word "no". Wow. She's a finicky girl, for sure (see the diva look she's giving me below). <br />
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How can this sweet girl turn into a hitting, screaming tantrum-throwing diva? Oh, folks...it can happen. </div>
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However, my kids are, overall, polite, sweet and loving kids. Sometimes their heads spin around and I wonder who's children they are at that moment. But, I would never trade them for the world.<br />
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Next step...getting rid of that pesky binky. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. We are tryign to limit her usage to just naps and bedtime. We are failing miserably. It's hard to say "no" when she begs for it by name, while screaming and crying on the way home from daycare. Momma is a tired, overworked wimp...and I give in and plug her up every time. ::slaps hand:: HELP! <br />
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<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>mrs.monica @ RTP_inHeelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733835493878516811noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5127496608826660695.post-41809452648455315202012-11-14T20:29:00.001-05:002012-11-16T10:33:16.029-05:00Mommy Likey...My 2012 Xmas ListOkay ya'all I'm going to make a big confession...I'm a big ole scrooge, a regular grinch who stole Christmas when it comes to these pesky holidays. Since T & B have come along, I'm a bit more perky. But, quite honestly, I am not a fan of the greedy, entitled, lengthy and expensive thing they call Christmas. I'm sorry Xmas lovers...I'm just not one of you. I guess this is why it's so difficult for me to put a list together when the holidays roll around. I just feel "forced". I try to keep a running list all year, but I fail miserably, and end up asking for things I "want" instead of "need". ::slaps own hand::. Of course, after the holidays I come up with countless items I really NEEDED. I know some of these are NEVER going to happen...but here's my list so far:<br />
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Keurig Mini Plus - in red Revlon Quiet Pro Ionic Hair Dryer <br />
<a href="http://www.bakedbyrachel.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Red-Keurig.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://www.bakedbyrachel.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/Red-Keurig.jpg" width="160" /></a><img height="200" src="http://di1-4.shoppingshadow.com/images/pi/8f/1d/94/124317157-260x260-0-0_helen+of+troy+helen+of+troy+rvdr5045+revlon+quiet+.jpg" width="200" /><br />
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Far From The Tree (I know, I'm a science geek) Nike Sweatpants with pockets<br />
<a href="http://www.elle.com/cm/elle/images/eT/elle-november-intel-books-far-from-the-tree-1112-xln-mdn.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://www.elle.com/cm/elle/images/eT/elle-november-intel-books-far-from-the-tree-1112-xln-mdn.jpg" width="133" /></a> <img height="180" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41uad2T61YL._SX270_.jpg" width="200" /><br />
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Rose Gold Watch, like this one... Microsoft Surface -or- Macbook Air (a girl can dream:))<br />
<a href="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/71fE1GaL6LL._SL1500_.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" class="fullScreen" height="200" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/71fE1GaL6LL._SL1500_.jpg" style="margin-top: 10px;" width="90" /></a> <img height="150" src="http://compass.surface.com/assets/fd/73/fd732655-e260-4059-b05c-a40093696060.jpg" width="200" /><br />
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Winter car mats (a type A-girl's dream)<br />
Chicago Flag iphone 4s phone case<br />
<img height="320" id="original-main-image" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/41zDploiTvL._SL500_AA300_.jpg" width="320" /><br />
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Portable Computer Speakers...because my TV blew at school and my kids can't hear my videos! boo!<br />
Love these Arctic Sounds S111 Ultra portable speakers<br />
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Heart Rate Training Books - I'm a track coach and need some ideas </div>
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<img height="200" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/51eLFDQXDoL._SL500_PIsitb-sticker-arrow-big,TopRight,35,-73_OU01_.jpg" width="140" /></div>
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Nike Sports Watch powered by Tom Tom & accessories<br />
<img height="200" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/512XNIWaGFL._SL500_.jpg" width="197" /> <img height="200" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/81iV1A2hOwL._AA1500_.jpg" width="200" /><br />
Flameless candles...so genius Scotch Tape Shoe Dispenser...would look great on my desk:)<br />
<a href="http://demandware.edgesuite.net/sits_pod13/dw/image/v2/AAID_PRD/on/demandware.static/Sites-pier1_us-Site/Sites-pier1_master/default/v1352980821539/images/2623731/2623731_1.jpg?sw=400&sh=400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Beaded Flameless LED" border="0" height="200" src="http://demandware.edgesuite.net/sits_pod13/dw/image/v2/AAID_PRD/on/demandware.static/Sites-pier1_us-Site/Sites-pier1_master/default/v1352980821539/images/2623731/2623731_1.jpg?sw=400&sh=400" width="200" /></a> <img height="200" src="http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/91l7W0KoFQL._AA1500_.jpg" width="200" /><br />
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New Dinnerware that isn't stoneware...which chips...a lot! I like these two from pier one.<br />
<img height="200" src="http://demandware.edgesuite.net/sits_pod13/dw/image/v2/AAID_PRD/on/demandware.static/Sites-pier1_us-Site/Sites-pier1_master/default/v1352980821539/images/2616229/2616229_1.jpg" width="200" /> <img height="200" src="http://demandware.edgesuite.net/sits_pod13/dw/image/v2/AAID_PRD/on/demandware.static/Sites-pier1_us-Site/Sites-pier1_master/default/v1352980821539/images/PS39463/PS39463_1.jpg" width="200" /><br />
Any running clothes...especially running tights (I prefer cropped) and cold running gear<br />
<img height="200" src="http://www.girlyobsessions.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/OC_FallWorkoutFaves.jpg" width="200" /><br />
A white coat (fleece). Like this one perhaps... or with a hood. I like the furry ones.<br />
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<img height="200" src="http://www.rei.com/zoom/ss/3dc83520-347a-4895-94bb-111f6197c83d.jpg/440" width="155" /><br />
infinity scarves. I have a cream one and a purple one, would love a gray or black one too or some colorful scarves.<br />
<img height="167" src="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3122/3199229832_b18e49504a.jpg" width="200" /><br />
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MAC Brush Set - Holiday 2012 (It's been wayyyyy to many years since I replaced my brushes)<br />
<img height="153" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJQ611LoeT4c4t0weWf6K9_UVg4BPL9hC-UXk1h3Q63CFMEg1qqNbtET84gLh-GTmPdk308cBUCcGCj15EiC9hD2A7F3q0SxectGHhVjniJXjsPwm6sUEfb4IZ2yTYOqKMQ7JHDi49oAwL/s200/MAC+Holiday+Christmas+2012+Glamour+Daze+13+jpg.jpg" width="200" /><br />
Okay, now I look like a spoiled brat. It's just a wish list people. :) Link up to get some good ideas. I may be a day late...but that's how life works these days. Go visit Growing up Geeky.<br />
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<img align="left" src="http://i1172.photobucket.com/albums/r562/RTP_inHeels/MrsMonicasig.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /> <br />
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<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>mrs.monica @ RTP_inHeelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733835493878516811noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5127496608826660695.post-52194340569067952212012-11-02T22:08:00.001-04:002012-11-02T22:13:42.118-04:0018 Months with B<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I'm only, oh, 2 weeks late on this one, but better late than never I guess. Our sweet Brynleigh Anne turned a year and a half on the 14th of October. I am in shock it's been that long. She is most definitely no longer a baby, she's a bonafide toddler. This was made officially official when they moved her to the toddler room at daycare. I was a bit scarred by this experience. For one, I LOVED her old teachers, a more subdued room and environment, cribs, high chair eating, sippy cups, and just a generally better run room. We have now entered biting, hitting, screaming, running, land of "no", and mommy-no-likey. Within a couple of days of entering this new environment, she was hitting her brother, she was bitten by another child and she came home with someone elses diapers, onsie and pants on after an accident. Not to mention, she's been sick for nearly ALL of the two weeks she has been in this new room. I'm hoping and praying these are just growing and adjustment pains. I am fairly confident the daycare adores my children. They are kind and loving to them. This is all I can ask for. My OCD and controlling-ness will need to just learn to let go a little. ::sigh:: So here's what's been going on with B since I last updated. <br />
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<u><strong>Stats:</strong></u> Height 33" (90th percentile) Weight 21 lbs 4oz (we're finally on the chart at 15th percentile...whoot!)<br />
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<strong><u>Clothing:</u></strong> Ranges from 12-2T, I would say she's pretty true to size, though, mostly 18 months are being rocked. I can go up in shirts because she has a toddler belly, but anything bigger than 18 months in pants is a no-go at this point. Too big. <br />
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<strong><u>New Words:</u></strong> She began saying phrases this month, things like; "thank you mama, thank you dadda, sit down, uppy please, What's that, I don't know" and her vocabulary is HUGE with words that impress us like french fries instead of just fries, caterpillar, baby doll, diaper (with her new diaper sign...this baby sign momma is so proud), seat, chair, bunny, puppy, outside, pumpkin, stinky, blanket, elbow, butteryfly, blueberry, and countless more I can't come up with off the cuff<br />
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<strong><u>New Tricks:</u></strong> the signs for diaper and juice are new this month, running (she runs with her hands in the air...freaking hilarious), newfound baby doll obsession, drinking from a cup, she can flip head over heels with Daddy's help, she's been defending herself more and interacting with her "bubba" as she calls him (like trying to jump on and wrestle him), hugging with her arms around our necks instead of just leaning in her head (LOVE this one!), she's learning to pretend and play alone with toys more (thank you daycare), she's begun to show some interest in the potty and tells us when she has a wet or poopy diaper, brushes her teeth<br />
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<strong><u>Sleep:</u></strong> She is the easiest child around to put down. She tends to be pretty crabby around dinner and bath time, but when it's time to settle down, she is a routine girl all the way. The girl is OBSESSED with books (especially those with flaps to open or anything to touch and feel. Our favorite books right now are: Zoo, Where's Puppy, Oops A Daisy, Pat the Bunny, Where's Binky and Too Purpley. After 3-4 books, we lay her on her stomach with her bunny and/or her baby we named Molly, and she's out in 2.2 seconds. It's a breeze. I just love reading to and rocking her, though. It's OUR time. This girl can also sleep in till almost 9, sometimes after. She likes her sleep.<br />
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<strong><u>Favorite Toys:</u></strong> baby doll, bunny, balls, skateboard/scooter (they are T's), refridgerator leapfrog toys that play music, playschool magic house, books, finally getting interested in 5-10 minutes of a cartoon<br />
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<strong><u>Favorite Food:</u></strong> believe it or not this girl LOVES water, juice, fruit strips, yogurt, chips, fries, apple sauce, bananas, cheerios, cinnamon life, cheese<br />
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<img align="left" src="http://i1172.photobucket.com/albums/r562/RTP_inHeels/MrsMonicasig.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /> <br />
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<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>mrs.monica @ RTP_inHeelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733835493878516811noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5127496608826660695.post-69015767766159402172012-10-30T21:27:00.001-04:002012-10-30T21:27:06.849-04:00TAT: What Will Santa Bring?Toddle Along Tuesday has a fun topic this week...possible Christmas list choices for the kiddos.<br />
<a href="http://www.growingupgeeky.com/" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1176.photobucket.com/albums/x324/mchupie/Growing_up_Geeky/tatbutton150.png" /></a>
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I couldn't believe how many bloggy moms have already started shopping or ::gasp:: had already finished AND WRAPPED their items. WOW! I have barely wrapped my head around Halloween, and it's tomorrow. Christmas is a lifetime away. I do keep a running "wishlist" on Amazon with some items the kids seem to show an interest in. I have been taking notes from all the other mothers on fun, new ideas. Stop on by TAT and take a look for yourself. Here are my top three items as of now:<br />
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<strong><em>T</em></strong><br />
<strong><em>Age 5</em></strong><br />
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1. All Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle Action Figures (I can't believe they're back!)<br />
2. Avengers Movie (he may not be "old enough", but we know he'll love it)<br />
3. Thor light-up and shoot hammer (not our first shooting item...I've given up)<br />
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<strong><em>B</em></strong><br />
<strong><em>Age 18 months</em></strong><br />
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1. BABYDOLL Magic Doll Bottle Set<br />
2. Little Mommy Baby<br />
3. Kidcraft Uptown Espresso Kitchen<br />
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<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>mrs.monica @ RTP_inHeelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733835493878516811noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5127496608826660695.post-73772261115898030072012-10-30T20:36:00.001-04:002012-10-30T20:36:58.966-04:00HHI - August 2012 - Take Two<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
In August, the fam traveled to SC to celebrate the marriage of my SIL and BIL. After the festivities, we had about 5 days to rest, relax and spend time as a family on the beach. It was heaven. </div>
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Looking at these pictures now, I can't believe how much the kids have already changed, and how relaxed we all look. Ah summer... It was such a blessing to have the whole extended family together. My kids were very blessed to have both sets of grandparents on vacation. We are very lucky our family is so close, and we all get along swimmingly ::pun intended:: Man, I need a vacation! Luckily, my other SIL is getting married in Florida in March. Something to get me through the stressful, dark times, for sure. Next on our list, Disneyland perhaps?! What do you think about the minimum age a child can really appreciate Disney. Three?! Four?! <br />
<img align="left" src="http://i1172.photobucket.com/albums/r562/RTP_inHeels/MrsMonicasig.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /> <br />
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<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>mrs.monica @ RTP_inHeelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733835493878516811noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5127496608826660695.post-26310520502628168842012-10-29T22:56:00.001-04:002012-10-29T22:56:18.239-04:00Why I Might Only be a Summertime Blogger...I have quickly learned that mom of two + wife + resident house manager & cook + working mom with brand new responsibilities (and lots of them) = the WORST blogger E.V.E.R. After 5 solid years of blogging, I'm struggling to find the time...clearly. I really WANT TO be a better blogger, if not for my readers, than for me and the great footprints I leave behind for my children. It IS important to me to keep this electronic baby book going. Plus, I like to blog. But I'm really dropping the ball here. Will you forgive me? <br />
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I have so much to catch you all up on in our lives. <br />
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I haven't posted the rest of the pictures from our HHI vacay, T started kindergarten and we've had many struggles, frustrations and excitements from that, B is in her first year of daycare. It's been...interesting, B is talking, running and being a general baby-loving, binky wearing, no-saying diva, T is just finishing up his first outdoor soccer season and starting wrestling this week (oh lord), hubs and I completed a marathon, hubs is now also a tough mudder and we have been staying busy with lots of travel and fall activities. So much to say...but so little time...more like NO TIME. <br />
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I'll just take a little at at time. Just make sure you always scroll down until you get to an old post. Who knows how many I'll be able to squeeze into a day of catch-ups. Until then, I'll leave you with a couple picture teasers.<br />
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T & B in their daycare photos<br />
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Our kindergarten man in his AM panda room</div>
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Marathon...Check.<br />
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<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>mrs.monica @ RTP_inHeelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733835493878516811noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5127496608826660695.post-13520460148922645582012-09-14T23:41:00.000-04:002012-09-14T23:42:39.654-04:0017 Months of Awesome With our GirlI still can't believe I have a girl! I also can't believe it's been 17 months since she came into our lives. I can't imagine one second without her! Happy 17 month bday little lady!<br />
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Size: growing out of all 12-18 months and size 4 diapers. Moving into 24 months fast.<br />
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New words since 15 months: bow, teeth, eyes, nose, Tyler (Twy-wur), shoes, hello, no, mine, yeah, knee, down, bunny, Gram, Granddad, Mimi, Papa, cat, I love you, kiss, awe, thank you mama, pee-pee, potty, grasshopper (no, seriously), dude why, spoon, I pretty<br />
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P.S. This is what a blog post looks like of a working mom of two who's trying to keep it all together... ::sigh:: Hoping to return to normal blog-posting-dom one day. :)<br />
<img align="left" src="http://i1172.photobucket.com/albums/r562/RTP_inHeels/MrsMonicasig.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /> <br />
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<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>mrs.monica @ RTP_inHeelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733835493878516811noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5127496608826660695.post-82047074602949052082012-09-04T19:53:00.003-04:002012-09-04T19:53:46.003-04:00TAT: My babies & meI have two kids. I also have two very different relationships with them. I've embraced the "role" I play in each of their lives, for now at least. I also try to spend quality one-on-one time with both of them on a regular basis, so that I might keep that bond strong and unique. <br />
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I became pregnant with each of my babies in very different ways, at very different times in my life. As a result, I felt differently when each one arrived. They fulfilled different roles in our lives as a growing family. They are also a boy and a girl, so my relationships have evolved as a result of gender.<br />
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My son, T, came along early on in our marriage. He wasn't a surprise, we were trying, but we weren't in a hurry, either. It was an exciting and nerve-wracking process. At that time, I didn't realized I had fertility issues. I was unaware how lucky I really was to become pregnant with our son. Everything about that experience was exciting and new. It was pure and I was very naive. When he was born, and for almost four years after, he was the prince. He was our one and only, and the only grandchild on both sides. He was the center-of-attention for a long time. He's still my baby, but only when he's hurt, angry at his true "buddy" (Daddy) or wanting to be held. He's independent and strong-willed. He's me. Because of this, we butt heads on occasion. But, when we lay in bed together cuddling, he's my baby again. He looks to me for warmth, stability, comfort, reassurance, and positive reinforcement. T is always trying to please me and is always concerned if I am proud of him. I am, and I tell him so often. I may not be his preferred playmate, but I am confident I'm his first choice when he falls (literally or figuratively). It warms my heart that he freely says "I love you mommy" without prompting. I tell him I love him more times that is normal in a day. He's my little man. My boy.<br />
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Then<br />
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...and now</div>
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My daughter, B, came about in a completely different way. I wanted her SO BADLY but nature was preventing me from having another child. We did everything in our power to have our second. It was a roller coaster ride of ups and downs for 16 months. It was painful, scary, unnerving, frustrating, and quite an adventure. When I became pregnant with B, in my opinion, she was a miracle. A marvel of modern science and a complete extra gift in our lives. When I found out she was a girl, it was the cherry on top of an already stellar sundae. With B I wasn't so naive. I had experienced loss, I knew the trials and tribulations of pregnancy, I remembered the hardships of labor and the recovery process, I was aware of the sleepless nights. I worried I didn't have enough love left for her. I was afraid T would resent me for splitting my time and energy. I was afraid a large part of my pregnancy. I struggled to connect with the fetus early on. I was afraid to get too attached. This is such a stark contrast from our current relationship. She is my shadow. We are so connected that I don't feel whole without her now that I'm back to work. She needs me, all the time. I'm her one-and-only source of comfort and her safe place. I'm not naive about how our relationship will change over time. I was a moody, difficult girl growing up. I wasn't so nice to my mom all of the time. But right now, I'm milking these perfect and simple moments, and storing them for those difficult times. So I can get through them with a whole heart. Until then, she's my sweet baby girl. <br />
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Then<br />
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...and now :)</div>
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Come join Toddle Along Tuesday!</div>
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<img align="left" src="http://i1172.photobucket.com/albums/r562/RTP_inHeels/MrsMonicasig.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /> <br />
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<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>mrs.monica @ RTP_inHeelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733835493878516811noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5127496608826660695.post-35787040258854857442012-09-02T22:38:00.002-04:002012-09-02T23:18:24.802-04:00A Wedding in HHIA new blog post...yes folks...it's a miracle...and a 3-day weekend! phew!<br />
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My SIL got married a couple of weeks ago. It was a destination wedding, and we decided to make a week-long vacation out of it. I just love HHI! It was perfect weather, all our family was there, and the wedding was gorgeous. All-in-all, it was a perfect end to my time at home with the kids. ::snif, tear:: I'll make two posts out of this vacay, so we'll start with the wedding photo dump first. <br />
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That brings me to why I've been bloggy-challenged for almost a month...I went back to work!!!!! Boo! This is a whole other post within itself. Did I mention how pay-challenged teachers are?! Man, am I underpaid for how much work I've done in the past 2 weeks. I'm already ready for another vacay.<br />
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I had to start a day after we returned from our trip, and I've been trying to keep my head above water ever since. Treading water sucks, and it's a complete suck on my blog time. Boo!! Not to mention that both my kids have caught those nasty, naughty and freakishly strong daycare germs after only a week in. It's been quite an adjustment...to say the least. We're surviving. ISH... <br />
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I have so much to update you all on. I'll spread the post dump out over a few days, so as to not overwhelm ya.<br />
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Enjoy...and come back for more later:) <br />
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The wedding locale. It was hot but gorgeous! A perfect day!!! I think it was all my SIL dreamed of!<br />
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The cutest kids EVER! :) My doll-babies. ::swoon::<br />
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The bride and groom (love them so much!)<br />
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it's official...and notice I had to remove myself due to B's diva-like antics :)<br />
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Me & my love<br />
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The "kids"...the sisters/brothers/spouses</div>
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My little man<br />
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the reception spot</div>
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The most amazing (and good looking) parents in the world...mine!!! They joined us for the wedding and were an incredible help with the kiddos! I'm so lucky to have them!!! <br />
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The fam<br />
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My loves and me<br />
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My boys xoxo<br />
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This girl ADORES her big bro (or bubba as she calls him)<br />
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dancing with his princess<br />
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busting a move with T-money</div>
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Mr. & Mrs. cake cutting<br />
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my dancing queen</div>
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Nuff said</div>
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<img align="left" src="http://i1172.photobucket.com/albums/r562/RTP_inHeels/MrsMonicasig.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /> <br />
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<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>mrs.monica @ RTP_inHeelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733835493878516811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5127496608826660695.post-32682746072238895152012-08-07T15:53:00.001-04:002012-08-07T15:53:17.969-04:00Goodbye Pullups & My Hatred for GamingToday is a big day in our house. T woke up...dry...with big boy undies on! Whoot! After 10 dry mornings with pull-ups, we decided to try big boy undies. Unbelievably, he was dry. Mommy was relieved there wouldn't be a bed strip and wash. ::phew:: We are still getting him up to try to pee before we head to bed. I'm not sure when we'll stop doing that. One step at a time. Until then, I'm planning my break-up speech to those pesky pull-ups, and hoping I've bought my last box at Sams Club. ::fingers crossed::<br />
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Here's an oldie but goodie of T (circa 2010)<br />
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On a completely unrelated note, I have decided that <u>over-my-dead-body</u> will my 5 year old son be receiving a gaming system this year, or any year in the near future, for that matter. My hubs and I have begun discussing the option this year. I am going to take that one back, and quickly. I have a growing hatred for gaming lately. To be honest, I hate it all the time. But, that's beside the point I guess. <br />
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Lately, T is very into playing our "pads", as he calls them. My hubby is an android supporter, I have an ipad, and T can literally sit of hours playing them. Of course I DO NOT allow that, unless we are on a long car trip. I do offer my pad as an option for his "quiet time" 1-2 days a week. Honestly though, I would prefer he rot his brain in front of the TV for an hour. At least I can provide a program that might have some learning benefits, or a cute classic Disney flick. The Where's Perry or Monkey Blast app...ummm...not so much. I get so incredibly frustrated when quiet time is over, B is up, and we want to go outside to play or run some errands, but my 5 year old refuses to get off the pad. I want to throw it across the room and have it smash into a million pieces (if it wasn't mine of course). Now don't judge, he does have a great learning game from leapster that we bought him. He plays that occasionally, mostly on car rides. I don't completely HATE those games. But, I still get so frustrated when he won't stop playing. <br />
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Is it bad that I'm trying to drill into his head that little boys that watch too much TV or play video games all day are making themselves fat and stupid?! I know...sounds harsh, huh?! But isn't it partially true?! As a teacher of teens, I see the residual side effects of our society on the computer, in front of an Xbox or watching mindless TV all day long. I don't like what I see. I certainly see how it can affect the ability for a student to concentrate, communicate and time-manage, when so many ways to procrastinate are hanging out in their room every night. I can see some positive aspects of learning to use a pad at age 4 or 5, following directions, hand-eye coordination, developing strategy, etc. But for now...I don't think the kid needs a system. Do you? <br />
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So I will keep my word to myself, for now. 1. no gaming system 2. absolutely no TV or computer in his room...now or ever 3. emphasis on being active 4. a maximum amount of TV or video game time per day/week. <br />
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If you don't agree with me...here are a few articles that examine both sides of the coin. You can decide for yourself:<br />
<a href="http://www.livestrong.com/article/278074-negative-effects-of-video-game-addiction/">The Negative Effects of Video Game Addiction</a><br />
<a href="http://www.raisesmartkid.com/3-to-6-years-old/4-articles/34-the-good-and-bad-effects-of-video-games">The Positive & Negative Effects of Video Games</a><br />
<a href="http://www.education.com/reference/article/negative-potential-video-games/">Negative Potential of Video Games</a><br />
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T minus, 3 days till our beach vacation! I'm pumped! I just wish preparing to relax wasn't so darn stressful. ::sigh::<br />
<img align="left" src="http://i1172.photobucket.com/albums/r562/RTP_inHeels/MrsMonicasig.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /> <br />
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Don't Forget to Vote Daily!<br />
<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>mrs.monica @ RTP_inHeelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733835493878516811noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5127496608826660695.post-90062534252713999512012-08-03T15:31:00.002-04:002012-08-03T15:31:49.540-04:00SOOO MANY QUESTIONS!I don't know how many of you have a LO that has the gift of gab, but I do. I am not talking about vocabulary, talking earlier than others, or babbling, I'm talking full-on continuous conversation, a barrage of questions with no stop, no pause and no end in sight. Yes folks, I have a 5 year old with no off button. I know, I know, he's learning. I've heard it before. Countless times. But, can't momma get a moment of silence every once in a while? Pretty please?! At the beginning of 20% SAHM-ness (aka summer vacation) I thought it was cute, entertaining even. Now...<u>not so much</u>. It's like nails on a chalkboard, slowly driving me insane. Some days I handle it well, fielding question after question calmly and with some level of humor. Other days, my patience wears thin and I find myself not listening to him, saying that I don't know or deferring to another adult in his life (guilty). Sometimes, after the thousandth "but why" I want to scream "Mommy has no fricking clue, okay?!" or a less classy "shut the hell up". Kidding. Kind of. My little man is a great kid. He is a kind little boy who is friendly and fun to be around. I'm not complaining about his personality. But the questions...oh....THE.QUESTIONS. Lord have mercy. If anyone has some sanity-saving tips on how to get through this stage (hopefully) please leave a comment. Otherwise, if your LO isn't at this lovely milestone yet...consider this your formal warning. Gather your patience, take a deep breath and be ready. It's quite a ride. <br />
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Mr. Personality himself :) Can you believe this adorable little boy tests my patience like no other?! <br />
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<img align="left" src="http://i1172.photobucket.com/albums/r562/RTP_inHeels/MrsMonicasig.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /> <br />
<br />
<br /><br />
Don't Forget to Vote Daily!<br />
<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>mrs.monica @ RTP_inHeelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733835493878516811noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5127496608826660695.post-86838905583592911172012-08-02T15:15:00.001-04:002012-08-02T15:15:54.858-04:00Lake & Other RandomnessI've clearly been busy as my blog is suffering yet again. I swear I have an excuse and it's called AP biology. ::gulp:: I'm taking over the program this year and whoa am I overwhelmed. To rub in the amount of work I have to accomplish in 3 short weeks, I attended a 4-day summer institute put on by the college board. Lets just sum it up by saying that I broke into honest-to-goodness tears 2 of the 4 days out of frustration and enormous stress. Needless to say, I've got my work cut out for me, and I've come to the conclusion that teachers are vastly underpaid, not like I didn't know that before...but now...holy crap! So every free second I have when the kids are asleep or watching a cartoon, I'm prepping for my school year. Oh yeah, and training for a marathon. No biggie. ugh. There's also this whole family wedding thingy that's coming up that we are prepping for. It's gone from a little beach wedding to quite a production, and a week-long vacay. So we have lots to do. So I'll work on getting caught up on life (and my lack of enthusiasm for summer) in the next few posts.<br />
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Lake time when we weren't triathlon'ing :)<br />
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T and Granddad on the pontoon<br />
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Pontoon time with momma (and a very uncomfortable B...lol)<br />
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Tubing on the super Mabel (thanks Uncle Brian for the ridiculous new ride!)<br />
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w/ Daddy<br />
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w/ me (we bounced a lot since we were lighter than the boys and I was sore!)<br />
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w/ Uncle Brian (who had to teach him how to ride backwards and stand up with no hands)<br />
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Sand time (thanks to our neighbors for letting us hang on their sand)<br />
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skipping rocks<br />
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with my two loves at the best place on Earth<br />
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my little fishy:)<br />
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"cheese"<br />
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a relaxing day after the tri<br />
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with her buddy, Granddad (my mom never lets me take pictures of her...shame, shame)<br />
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More updating later...<br />
How is every one's summer?! Things winding down? Big trips planned? Ready to send the kiddos back to school (like I am?! :) )What's the word? Leave a comment! :)<br />
<img align="left" src="http://i1172.photobucket.com/albums/r562/RTP_inHeels/MrsMonicasig.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /> <br />
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Don't Forget to Vote Daily!<br />
<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>mrs.monica @ RTP_inHeelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733835493878516811noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5127496608826660695.post-56672491193790005082012-07-23T15:59:00.002-04:002012-07-23T15:59:30.310-04:00Ripping off the Triathlon Band aid ~ Sister Lakes 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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For those of you that are new to my blog, or infrequent readers, I have a bit of a running obsession. Okay, I'm IN LOVE with running. I would definitely call myself a runner with an occasional inkling for a triathlon challenge here and there. I'm not a triathlete. A few years ago (2009) I was training for the Steelhead Half Ironman 70.3. A friend of mine and I were going to do it together. It was going to be a huge check mark off my athletic list of to-do's in life. I was pumped. I was in some of the best shape of my life, having just run my personal best at the Columbus Marathon, and I was training like a madwoman. I also only had Tyler to take care of, a great baby seat on my bike, and an awesome baby jogger. It was doable. I was doing it. Until...the bomb hit. I had done a sprint tri for training, which went well, and two weeks before the big 70.3 I did an Olympic distance. This wasn't as successful...to say the least.<br />
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For those of you that aren't versed in tri distances...here's a quick and dirty cheat-sheet:<br />
Sprint ~ 500m swim, 12 mi bike, 5K run<br />
Olympic ~ 1000m swim, 25 mi bike, 10K run<br />
70.3 Half Ironman ~ 1500m swim, 50 mi bike, 13.1 mile run<br />
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There I was on the open water lake swim of my Olympic tri, and I couldn't catch my breath...at all. I thought I was having a panic attack (as I am claustrophobic and open water swims are very hard for me), so I took down my wetsuit and swam with it half-on, but I was still one of the last athletes out of the water. It was unlike me. A paramedic stopped me to tell me I was blue and I needed to stop. I didn't listen. I continued, and finished, the tri...IN LAST PLACE. I fricking WALKED the 6mile run. For a marathon runner who was pretty much done with 70.3 training, that was PATHETIC! When I finished the tri (in a pathetic 3:47) the paramedics checked me again and said I had water in my lungs and they recommended I go to the hospital immediately. Fast forward a bit and I found myself transported <u>via ambulance</u> from an urgent care to the local hospital for a 3 day stay with double pneumonia! Awesome. We weren't even in our home city, and we had a 2 year old. Did I mention it was 2 weeks before my big half ironman I'd been training for FOREVER. Great. I couldn't even go up stairs without being out of breath. It took me months to recover! The 70.3 didn't happen (bye bye training and registration fee), and that last place finish on the tri scarred me for life. <br />
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Fast forward 3 years and 1 baby, and here I was at the start of another tri. I was petrified. I was definitely feeling the panic from the last tri experience. I knew I had to push through this, or I would not be able to do open water swims again. I needed to rip off the band aid...and I did...in 1st place in my age group, 7th overall girl and 32nd overall of almost 300 participants in the sprint distance. I was pretty pumped. My time was 1:22:47. I swam in 12:43, biked in 39:30 and ran in 25:48. I ran across that finish line pumping my fist in the air. I had done it. I had pushed through my fears. It felt amazing! Hubs also completed the triathlon in 1:35:22. I was so proud of him and really happy we did it together. Next challenge...Chicago Marathon. I think next year I might try that pesky Olympic distance triathlon. <br />
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Hubs on the bike. <br />
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Me finishing the run<br />
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At the finish line<br />
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Me and my first ever 1st place medal. It was only for my age group, but I was pretty darn proud anyway.<br />
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Me and my #1 fan!<br />
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<br />So anyone want to join hubs and I next year?!? We'll provide the lodging :) <br />
<img align="left" src="http://i1172.photobucket.com/albums/r562/RTP_inHeels/MrsMonicasig.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhelMBoqlxFLozmqc_WBYQUh1Ik3yYz78JIRai5EfVknHdzbqdayu0ezoAM_d-fqPxdG3AclGOz_nQfyc1QksBLAepUJHVjs426GVEanQuRMmUbNcBPdgA17w87KlJsG1LvU00ygKh7Kaw/s1600/IMG_8831.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhelMBoqlxFLozmqc_WBYQUh1Ik3yYz78JIRai5EfVknHdzbqdayu0ezoAM_d-fqPxdG3AclGOz_nQfyc1QksBLAepUJHVjs426GVEanQuRMmUbNcBPdgA17w87KlJsG1LvU00ygKh7Kaw/s400/IMG_8831.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<img align="left" src="http://i1172.photobucket.com/albums/r562/RTP_inHeels/MrsMonicasig.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /> <br />
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I'm a little late to the party for her 14 months stats, but B turned 15 months today! I just can't believe how fast time is flying by. Summer is going wayyyyyy too fast! <br />
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<strong><em><u>Sizes:</u></em></strong> All 12-18 months. Her 12 are getting too small, but her 18 months are too big. Diapers are size 4's exclusively. Shoes are all size 4's, but they're still big. This girl is all belly!! <br />
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<strong><em><u>Stats:</u></em></strong> 19lbs, 15.5oz and 31" (10th percentile for weight, 70th for height)<br />
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<strong><em><u>Words:</u></em></strong> Mama, Dada, Brother (sounds more like ba-bur), good doggie, shoes, bu-bye, please, tank ooo (thank you), more, wa-wa (water), feet, book, ball (but she says mall...lol), up (or utt in her language), no no no (always 3), cheese, nana (banana), poo-poo, uh-oh & ni-ni<br />
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<u><em><strong>Milestones:</strong></em></u><br />
Knows the following body parts; feet, belly, nose, eyes, mouth, ears, & hair<br />
Can identify the following; flowers, balls, dogs, bananas, blueberries, cars, shoes & cows<br />
Knows the following animal sounds; dog, cat, horse, chick & cow<br />
Knows the following signs; more, please, thank you, fan, book, night night, diaper, no, up, milk, eat, water, poop<br />
Can give a kiss, high five, wave, say bu-bye and hug<br />
Started walking as of 07.12.12<br />
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<em><strong><u>Likes:</u></strong></em><br />
baths, walking, playing with her learning house, dancing & singing, eating (a lot), babbling, pretending to talk on the phone, swimming and splashing, showing her belly, taking off her shoes, drinking water out of water bottles not sippy cups (lots of it!), playing with/pulling her hair, reading books, throwing things on the floor, feeding the doggie, following and playing with her brother, balls and balloons, climbing on everything, smiling, being tickled, playing peek-a-boo or being chased & being with mommy all the time!<br />
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<strong><em><u>Dislikes:</u></em></strong><br />
milk (weird, I know), any veggies, anything in her hair (they immediately get thrown on the floor and we've lost more than we've kept), sitting in the cart, shopping :(, watching TV (believe me...I've tried), having her clothes or diaper changed, being quiet & the swing<br />
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Our little diva has a <u><em><strong>very</strong></em></u> strong personality. She knows what she wants, when she wants it. I will say she's become much happier the past two days after she became more mobile and in control of herself. I can't believe how fast she's changing. It's amazing!! <br />
<img align="left" src="http://i1172.photobucket.com/albums/r562/RTP_inHeels/MrsMonicasig.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /> <br />
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Big news! This happened today at T's gymnastics class. She took off by herself over and over again! I think we have a walker, folks!<br />
<img align="left" src="http://i1172.photobucket.com/albums/r562/RTP_inHeels/MrsMonicasig.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcGLpI_S2-8ycRXN7VIEgz4GkkLseVeqw0u-FtlO-BS1Y5PaqucAqvtqt6URgzC1u8lgC4qSOnToOKYrBNWLGN76vgQIdKvOZbYJzeEJpzqDUDEq31sUPDNuxwoJHl4XTdMjcML3WZM-4/s1600/IMG_8748.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcGLpI_S2-8ycRXN7VIEgz4GkkLseVeqw0u-FtlO-BS1Y5PaqucAqvtqt6URgzC1u8lgC4qSOnToOKYrBNWLGN76vgQIdKvOZbYJzeEJpzqDUDEq31sUPDNuxwoJHl4XTdMjcML3WZM-4/s400/IMG_8748.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
The story of how a huge hole was made in the faux-painted dining room of a friend we were visiting today will have to wait. ::deep breaths::<br />
<img align="left" src="http://i1172.photobucket.com/albums/r562/RTP_inHeels/MrsMonicasig.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /> <br />
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Other days are an epic fail. Today I felt like a horrible mom. It was like every last imperfection reared its ugly head. On days like this, I start to highlight my mistakes as a mom, I internalize them and they eat away at me. It's days like this that I have a mini nervous breakdown, as my daily failures pile up. <br />
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I'm struggling with a lot of minor issues with both of my kids right now. I can't seem to figure out how to be successful or make positive changes in these areas, and it's starting to get to me. I can feel myself cracking... <br />
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With T I'm about ready to pull my hair out with his inability to hold his pee at night. He turned 5 in June, and my 5 year old still wears a pull-up. ::hangs head in shame:: I have tried it all. I have let him sleep in underwear, threatened privileges, offered rewards for repeatedly dry days, you name it. I am about two seconds away from shelling out some major dough for the little wet sensor that the Leaps and Bounds catalogue sells to help wake a sleeping child when they need to pee. I'm at my wits end. I was yesterday. I HATE YOU PULL UPS! <br />
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T is also trying to exert some independence in his dress. I know this isn't a big deal, but for a type-A OCD mommy like me, I even pick out his underwear to match his outfit. I'm having a minor struggle with it. He's wearing silly bands to bed, sweat bands to the zoo, argyle socks and gym shoes outside to play, shirts that he's grown out of, and it's driving me bonkers. I know this is something I have to get over...but man...<br />
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T is also a show-off. He is not my son when his peers are around. When it's just the three of us (me and the kids) at the park or zoo or wherever, he's a well-behaved rules-follower. He stays with me, holds my hand without protest, listens when I ask him to do something/or not, he's very easy to deal with. When he has a friend around on a play date, he's the worst listener E.V.E.R. I think I say his name about 300,000,000 times when we are out with others. I have to constantly remind him to stay with mommy, he has a huge issue with using his "inside voice" always talking wayyyyy too loudly, and he doesn't listen to me. It's infuriating. Don't get me started on the epic failure that was our zoo play date yesterday. I was exhausted by lunch. Today he got in trouble within the first 2 minutes of his first swim lesson of the season and had to sit out. 2 minutes he lasted... I guess that cannonball was much more important than listening to his teacher. ugh. <br />
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I feel like a failure when I can't make progress on these issues with my 5 year old. I'm losing my mind, and sadly my iron-clad patience I am so proud of.<br />
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B is also driving me bonkers today, as much as a 14 month old can, of course. She is IMPOSSIBLE to shop with...a frigging nightmare! If I don't have an IV drip of snacks for her for the duration of our trip to the grocery store...watch out! Today I was one of those moms that opens the package WHILE she is still shopping. Yep, that was me. Ugh. B throws everything on the floor after allowing it to entertain her for 2.2 seconds; binky, my phone (twice), the grocery list (three times), 2 books I picked up to appease her, a snack, another snack, yet another snack, just about every non-breakable grocery in my cart...you get the idea. Then she tries to sit up in the cart, throws her head back and screams when I won't let her, oh...and she poops...EVERY FRICKING TIME!<br />
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My little hulk!<br />
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I'm also feeling like a big fat failure when it comes to feeding my kids. I am a cheap ass. I admit it. I pack lunches for me and the kids daily. I also feel more in control of their diet when I pack. I despise fast food, albeit we do eat it once in a while. But, seriously folks, how many fricking types of sandwiches can I come up with in 1 week. I'm so sick of feeding them things between bread I'm ready to scream!!!!!! I'm running out of ideas.<br />
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I also feel so guilty if they don't get a variety. My pantry is a who's who of every healthy snack alternative for kids over the age of 1 year. It's insanity in a cabinet. <br />
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If I feed them the same veggie or fruit in a period of 2 days, I feel like I'm depriving them and setting them up for failure. Did I mention I was a health nut?! Yeah, I am. But, how can I eat healthy if not one of the other 3 people in my house eats veggies?! No wonder B is stopped up! <br />
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Speaking of veggies...what fricking veggies?! T eats at total of 3, and 2 of those are cold and with about a bucket of ranch (carrots and broccoli). B eats a total of zero...yep...zilch. My 14 month old gets NO fresh veggies in her diet. I am a freaking failure. Every once in a while, I can get her to eat hummus, and the other day I hid small carrot pieces in her eggs (but it took her about 4 bites to find them and throw every last one on the floor). Otherwise...this is how she eats her veggies. <br />
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I'm mortified. Why can't I get my baby to eat veggies at such a young age? Usually they aren't so picky now, right?! <br />
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Can you tell I've had a rough day?! Sorry for the massive mommy fail vent, but sometimes a mommy has got to get it all out. Oh, did I mention I screamed out in frustration in the car on the way home from the grocery store. My eyes welled up with tears, I had to tell myself to breath and I shook. I really gotta stop letting things fester. Clearly, this isn't working for me. <br />
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So am I an epic mommy failure?! Anyone else share any of these, or similar, struggles with their kids? Please share, so I don't feel like a complete crazy lunatic. ::breath::<br />
<img align="left" src="http://i1172.photobucket.com/albums/r562/RTP_inHeels/MrsMonicasig.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /> <br />
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Don't Forget to Click & Vote Daily!<br />
<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>mrs.monica @ RTP_inHeelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733835493878516811noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5127496608826660695.post-63750505808683705092012-07-07T11:15:00.001-04:002012-07-07T11:15:36.685-04:00A Unique 4th of July 2012As I'm sure many of you were struggling with, the 4th fell on a weird day this year, Wednesday. Boo! Because of the placement of the holiday, we were unable to get out of town like we usually do. I have spent a total of two 4th of Julys at home in my whole life. We have spent the 4th in Michigan at the family lake house every year. Because of this drastic change, we didn't really know what to do with ourselves when the holiday rolled around. We toyed with the idea of going either the weekend before or after, but it didn't really work out for the rest of my fam. So...in Cincinnati we stayed. It was different, but good. Now, don't get me wrong, we haven't had the most perfect 4th of Julys in Michigan, like our aptly named "4th of July from Hell" of 2008. Read about that <a href="http://schermanfamily.blogspot.com/2008/07/4th-of-july.html">HERE</a>! Ugh! What a mess that was. But then we have 4th like <a href="http://schermanfamily.blogspot.com/2009/07/july-4th-sister-lakes.html">THIS ONE</a> and <a href="http://schermanfamily.blogspot.com/2011/07/wishing-america-happy-birthday.html">THIS ONE</a>. I just freaking love The Lake <3. Anyway...here is our very vanilla, but enjoyable 4th celebration this year...in photos...<br />
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hours spent at the local pool<br />
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We brought along T's good buddy, Landon. It was a nice test of if we could handle 3 kids. I think we did swimmingly :) pun intended :)<br />
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Our swimming diva<br />
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What's a 100 degree day at the pool without a little Spongebob popsicle...and a messy and staining one at that!<br />
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My patriotic kiddos<br />
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Some age-appropriate "fireworks" with Uncle Fred</div>
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The Cross Family, us and Uncle Fred lighting fireworks<br />
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Our two little superheros were there to rescue anyone in need of assistance<br />
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Daddy and his princess enjoying the display<br />
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Miss Kristie giving a sparkler "tutorial"<br />
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good ole sparkler fun<br />
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B and me (looking tre old...ick...this was the best of 4) need anti-wrinkle cream...stat! recommendations?!<br />
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B and new addition, baby Liam <br />
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Happy Birthday, America! How did you spend your 4th of July?</div>
<img align="left" src="http://i1172.photobucket.com/albums/r562/RTP_inHeels/MrsMonicasig.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /><br />
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Don't Forget to Click & Vote Daily!<br />
<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>mrs.monica @ RTP_inHeelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733835493878516811noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5127496608826660695.post-83731871016873674532012-07-03T15:22:00.002-04:002012-07-03T15:22:10.762-04:00TAT: Summer FunMy hubby and I were just talking about how awesome it is that I get to essentially live a double-life. I get the perks of a career 10 months out of the year, but get to spend 10 amazing weeks as a SAHM with my kids in the summer. It's definitely a win-win for this girl! We are definitely over-scheduled, over-playdated on-the-go during the summer, but it's the way we like it. We go go go from about 8:45am until about 2, then we come home (with snack in hand) and B has a 2 hour nap, T has his "quiet time" and mommy has a moment to eat lunch, sit down and then proceed cleaning house/laundry/etc before daddy gets home. It's a perfect life, and I'm IN COMPLETE LOVE with it! This summer T is taking gymnastics and swimming lessons. He did 1.5 weeks of 9-12 camp as well. We also just finished with baseball. B is starting a music class next week, and she just comes along to watch T. We have passes to the zoo, Kings Island Amusement Park and the connected Soak City Water Park and we hit every park/water pad imaginable. I pride myself on finding new ones. We do parks, walks, playing outside, baby pool action, shopping, crafts, lunch with daddy and the in laws, lunch with just mommy and the kids at someplace special, reward runs to Target, indoor play at swings n things or other bounce house places, library trips for story time and books/movies and the usual once a week grocery shopping with cookie reward. The kids love to go to the gym play area while mommy hits up a couple of classes a week (Tuesday and Thursday) and we pool it like crazy to 2 or 3 different pools. We are busy and I am so incredibly blessed to have this time with my loves. Here are some randoms that I haven't posted before:<br />
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both my kids are water babies! <br />
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T up to bat in his last baseball game of the summer<br />
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He was so proud of his first trophy ever...and his doritos :) I truly believe on of the only reasons he plays every game is the snack afterwards! lol.<br />
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pool pool pool<br />
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fishing<br />
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checking out the zoo<br />
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sand and water table...and that damn binky again! argh<br />
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I love summer, mom:)<br />
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Hope you have had time to enjoy your loves during this hot, but gorgeous summer! Whatcha been up to? Go link up with Melissa @ Growing Up Geeky and share your summer fun!<br />
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<img align="left" src="http://i1172.photobucket.com/albums/r562/RTP_inHeels/MrsMonicasig.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /> <br />
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Don't Forget to Click and Vote Daily!<br />
<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>mrs.monica @ RTP_inHeelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733835493878516811noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5127496608826660695.post-30658163804722716742012-07-02T15:25:00.003-04:002012-07-02T15:25:45.116-04:00Some Much-Needed Girl TimeThis past weekend I went up to see a friend overnight, for only the second time since B was born. My good friend, Amy, has been in my life since freshman year of college. We were only 18 years old when we met, so we've been through a lot together and have had a lot of laughs. Sometimes it's nice to remember who I was BEFORE I was a wife and mommy of two. It's good therapy, a nice dose of rejuvination and just plain fun to just be me for a night. Mommy likey. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6H533XAD7fV7fCL0RzJPHpIVBw5B2V9wbqmyRL5Cl3uMvKkWeL8dsBomkNZqlKdrGsGNn-_dpgOYCCMi7OP4pdehyqYdapEiNvZQKi_jMSqaI0TMZpX5B9Vkau_Dmbip7fJ0-n2hHgIk/s1600/amyandiretouched.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6H533XAD7fV7fCL0RzJPHpIVBw5B2V9wbqmyRL5Cl3uMvKkWeL8dsBomkNZqlKdrGsGNn-_dpgOYCCMi7OP4pdehyqYdapEiNvZQKi_jMSqaI0TMZpX5B9Vkau_Dmbip7fJ0-n2hHgIk/s400/amyandiretouched.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtI_n2WqqH9dKBDKHGth3G0U1ZDWkEH0zRka068FDFJi2av2d3vpLft6HRFcyMXiyGsi3egiVAFt1pvROBbi_o0OCAoY_KMIzMERx_qZ2qTq4nrktsASDJHne3S3RXBlDpQwdgoKMbbVU/s1600/IMG_8735.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtI_n2WqqH9dKBDKHGth3G0U1ZDWkEH0zRka068FDFJi2av2d3vpLft6HRFcyMXiyGsi3egiVAFt1pvROBbi_o0OCAoY_KMIzMERx_qZ2qTq4nrktsASDJHne3S3RXBlDpQwdgoKMbbVU/s400/IMG_8735.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
Thanks, Am, for showing me a good time. I look forward to the next catch-up session, and the rest of those hilarious photo albums of our horrible fashion faux-pas :) Love ya! <br />
<img align="left" src="http://i1172.photobucket.com/albums/r562/RTP_inHeels/MrsMonicasig.png" style="border: 0px currentColor;" /> <br />
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<a href="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Top Mommy Blogs - Mom Blog Directory" border="0" height="59" src="http://www.topmommyblogs.com/directory/images//banners/tmb-468x60.gif" width="468" /></a>mrs.monica @ RTP_inHeelshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14733835493878516811noreply@blogger.com2