tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-21661796368216769942024-03-19T03:41:40.898-05:00A Woman with Hobbit FeetJust Add Hair~Denise~http://www.blogger.com/profile/01586221664679114198noreply@blogger.comBlogger940125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166179636821676994.post-16238021823894613712017-02-09T08:58:00.001-05:002017-02-09T08:58:14.033-05:00Feeling doneI'm feeling so done with certain people in my life. They can push all the bullshit they want in their own lives, but need to stop shoveling that shit to me. For people who profess to be family and that family matters, you have a funny way of showing it. For the people who profess to call me friend and that I'm important to you, yet your actions to not match your words, I'm tired of being sidelined, useful to you only when you are in crisis. This creates toxicity for me and I cannot have it. I am worthy of a caring, respectful, and reciprocal relationship. <br />
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I have found myself reverting back to old habits, things my codependentness loves. Feeling like I'm helping, but really I'm enabling or doing things for you. And it's not a healthy place for me to be. Last night, I got angry. Really, damn angry. Which pains my heart, but it also serves as the catalyst for my awareness and change. ~Denise~http://www.blogger.com/profile/01586221664679114198noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166179636821676994.post-71729816253272718742016-12-30T20:12:00.002-05:002016-12-30T20:12:50.200-05:00Close of 2016The end of 2016 is almost here and I have made little time for writing. I'm working up some personal goals and changes for the next year, not resolutions as I don't care for those, but honest-to-goodness change. I've always sort of chuckled when I heard that when you hit age forty that you stop caring about what others think. There is a ring of truth in it for me, but I still care way too much of what others think. It's part of my fear schema and it is something I want to change. <br />
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There has been loss, joy, loads of laughter, healing, and so much more this year. It's been a tough year, but yet a good one. And I'm ready to give 2017 hell.~Denise~http://www.blogger.com/profile/01586221664679114198noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166179636821676994.post-17358113313441997392016-10-20T10:57:00.001-05:002016-10-20T10:57:02.798-05:00ReliefI ended up with both the diagnostic mammogram and a 25 minute ultrasound, but the radiologist believes the issue is a benign spot of fibrous tissue. As the ultasound went on and on, I began to sweat it. I started processing how we'd tell the kids, how I would need to make some changes with the business, etc. And after an hour of nervousness, the doctor said it was all okay.<br />
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Now it's onto my upcoming hysterectomy, scheduled for mid-November.~Denise~http://www.blogger.com/profile/01586221664679114198noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166179636821676994.post-38499330484189560312016-10-13T11:58:00.001-05:002016-10-13T11:58:37.669-05:00EchoesI put off scheduling my mammogram for about five months and finally got in last week. I received a call the next morning that they'd like me to come back for a diagnostic mammogram and possible ultrasound. In just over an hour, I'll be having a second boob-squish and finding out if there is something to worry about.<br />
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I've worked to not be freaked out and worried, but the echoes are there. The faces of the ladies I know who are no longer with us after cancer stole their lives. The faces of the ladies who have undergone surgery and other treatment and came out on the other side. The faces of my fellow women who have shared that they haven't gone in to have a mammogram yet. They are there, present in my mind, being remembered and providing a reminder that things can go from zero to shitstorm quickly. The faces that push me over the edge when I delve into the echoes is my children. When I think of how our lives, their lives, could change this week, it strikes fear into my heart.<br />
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Logically, I know everything could be fine. I know that as a reduction gal, mammos can be a challenge at times. I know that it just might be breast tissue change and everything is fine. But the echoes remain.~Denise~http://www.blogger.com/profile/01586221664679114198noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166179636821676994.post-63696868910138457402016-07-13T09:49:00.001-05:002016-07-13T09:49:06.992-05:00Wed morning gratitudeThis morning I am thankful for....<br />
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<li>a four cheese souffle from Panera</li>
<li>daisies in my garden</li>
<li>baby Dory and the time to go see Finding Dory yesterday afternoon</li>
<li>my hearing: I can listen to music, hear the neighbor mowing, the truck that just rumbled by, and the breathing of my dog as he sleeps.</li>
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~Denise~http://www.blogger.com/profile/01586221664679114198noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166179636821676994.post-61215498624068957402016-07-12T10:23:00.002-05:002016-07-12T10:23:35.196-05:00Gratitude ExerciseA grateful and open heart. I've been closing myself off again lately and want to focus on gratitude to help me with having a grateful and open heart. <br />
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Today, I am thankful for....<br />
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<li>Courage - having the courage to step up and make tough choices, knowing that those choices are the right ones for me.</li>
<li>Summer fruit</li>
<li>The laughter of my daughter.</li>
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~Denise~http://www.blogger.com/profile/01586221664679114198noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166179636821676994.post-5662568198001772372016-07-12T10:15:00.001-05:002016-07-12T10:15:22.714-05:00Hello, old friendI've been thinking about coming back and writing for quite some time. Today, I took the step of actually doing so. I had been intended to utilize the blogger app on my phone to start blogging again, but alas it appears the app is no more? I'm guessing I need to have some form of google app to access it that way.<br />
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Gosh, it's been almost a year since I've visited and posted. I intend to post photos or brief thoughts to breathe some life back into my blog. We'll see how that goes. ;)~Denise~http://www.blogger.com/profile/01586221664679114198noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166179636821676994.post-19954834415227077412015-08-31T09:31:00.001-05:002015-08-31T09:31:26.744-05:00Winding downSummer is winding down, school begins tomorrow. There is always that bittersweet taste to this time of year. ~Denise~http://www.blogger.com/profile/01586221664679114198noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166179636821676994.post-34309471284139725022015-06-20T19:02:00.001-05:002015-06-20T19:02:26.461-05:00Starting earlyThe Hubs and I will be taking a 3-night Disney cruise in February. Since we are at a stage where this isn't much to plan, I started on some creations for our door magnets. <br><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj03_0AVQ7FnoM8aO0pqIfc7qoqbf1l1kpapC4NGlcCYdOQ53LUDBJeNsMEEljlZ9aRtTeHovkhkePICSwtLQsduxdZ3jN7a2g54HOWEwgcEOcFlkWtoyLeNrsxuFOi_835ycVRUTqmYQ4/s640/blogger-image-1111363428.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj03_0AVQ7FnoM8aO0pqIfc7qoqbf1l1kpapC4NGlcCYdOQ53LUDBJeNsMEEljlZ9aRtTeHovkhkePICSwtLQsduxdZ3jN7a2g54HOWEwgcEOcFlkWtoyLeNrsxuFOi_835ycVRUTqmYQ4/s640/blogger-image-1111363428.jpg"></a></div>~Denise~http://www.blogger.com/profile/01586221664679114198noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166179636821676994.post-22373516742740729932015-06-18T11:02:00.003-05:002015-06-18T11:02:38.716-05:00Spring has sprung<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
We've been working on re-doing a flowerbed in the back yard over the last month. I've been finding peace working with the earth between all the other gardening I've been doing as well. Here are a few highlights from the last month or so.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-e2a5uewe7Cd2b3mwO-v6WzYdEogS8S3LZHowa47gYPEUYHDsxzOoqGRuC8hgI0VZUySvxMRu3pN57oPm4ZmxsqmpPsuHPDRa3Jq_4Z8YoF7VOx4urSWN_xAPBzPL9yAgfyzYehpXIaY/s1600/DSC_0018.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-e2a5uewe7Cd2b3mwO-v6WzYdEogS8S3LZHowa47gYPEUYHDsxzOoqGRuC8hgI0VZUySvxMRu3pN57oPm4ZmxsqmpPsuHPDRa3Jq_4Z8YoF7VOx4urSWN_xAPBzPL9yAgfyzYehpXIaY/s320/DSC_0018.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9_BeurPIksMLF-aLaiHnHzBtA6Iq-ANnTbKpI2DKG6fq6EGxJIEtow4HpiR0imFVTydcz74NsVgXT-06TkdXqv6YAuScdUXpIT6vATUJKLolA2F0YTpRYWKZcZsXL7upVlRP_WAhNwPo/s1600/DSC_0027.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9_BeurPIksMLF-aLaiHnHzBtA6Iq-ANnTbKpI2DKG6fq6EGxJIEtow4HpiR0imFVTydcz74NsVgXT-06TkdXqv6YAuScdUXpIT6vATUJKLolA2F0YTpRYWKZcZsXL7upVlRP_WAhNwPo/s320/DSC_0027.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAO88dj7SNjlHFktw2vxnrSvKucoAqoCBOv4MuQHdB8zDHkJOvn417sT_Yq1ypx91C8FfPsVJvyvDbaUdFeU0i4DdDAY8PODJgYwZPO_bBFmu2Zvu2XzjXLzyTxBOAptrr4zFK2G_yYLU/s1600/DSC_0048.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAO88dj7SNjlHFktw2vxnrSvKucoAqoCBOv4MuQHdB8zDHkJOvn417sT_Yq1ypx91C8FfPsVJvyvDbaUdFeU0i4DdDAY8PODJgYwZPO_bBFmu2Zvu2XzjXLzyTxBOAptrr4zFK2G_yYLU/s320/DSC_0048.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnZgXBivxcF_L1vx136mwCdyE-H0uBfR2BtXgt6Gre_JF6IcLRm486b88hdZMPrBFnoudMmzqYOX6NHWKptX-yBZCLUfkh_FbBye-1XBP7DOIhYjFW_nGxMFIjjxoo-cO2f0juaPu4sN8/s1600/DSC_0297.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnZgXBivxcF_L1vx136mwCdyE-H0uBfR2BtXgt6Gre_JF6IcLRm486b88hdZMPrBFnoudMmzqYOX6NHWKptX-yBZCLUfkh_FbBye-1XBP7DOIhYjFW_nGxMFIjjxoo-cO2f0juaPu4sN8/s320/DSC_0297.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dragonflies at the local park</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj55QXDxfCpx2_W0hAsE-DrrbdrFrzTWozU0r3JUOXyRHLAwP-Q4ln2EPYNWKy8PbJnNgOsRnu53Oifc-TIEQX00IGpGzaKwqcLzVZbYgOOMwevZklYEGp-tc-yILMweqxLTGFbEEXBntQ/s1600/IMG_7913.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj55QXDxfCpx2_W0hAsE-DrrbdrFrzTWozU0r3JUOXyRHLAwP-Q4ln2EPYNWKy8PbJnNgOsRnu53Oifc-TIEQX00IGpGzaKwqcLzVZbYgOOMwevZklYEGp-tc-yILMweqxLTGFbEEXBntQ/s320/IMG_7913.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />~Denise~http://www.blogger.com/profile/01586221664679114198noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166179636821676994.post-52807430701153349112015-06-18T10:45:00.000-05:002015-06-18T10:51:08.644-05:00Wellness Journey<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtSB6yTojTM9sy1r5DJZRZcgY4WS_aSPIm7FyxlJLNXLEMIyGS6jFKZov0Qc7ThJTWFpsavNk_FfQsUxixwywszo4PZRaNH_ttidlOF5rdmGVToJ_6JRvrQaUKxw4UT3iYfMj7sBzgv00/s1600/IMG_8389.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtSB6yTojTM9sy1r5DJZRZcgY4WS_aSPIm7FyxlJLNXLEMIyGS6jFKZov0Qc7ThJTWFpsavNk_FfQsUxixwywszo4PZRaNH_ttidlOF5rdmGVToJ_6JRvrQaUKxw4UT3iYfMj7sBzgv00/s320/IMG_8389.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Bam, nothing like a photo of myself to start out this post. However, I did it for a reason. That lady (yes, me) deserves to love herself, to think she is worthy, and to know it will all be okay. To the little girl hiding inside her that just wants to be loved, without question, without judgement, and without expectation....you are loved.</div>
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Some of this is going to be ramble as there are many thoughts racing through my brain at the moment. Stick with me, please. <i><span style="font-size: xx-small;">Many thanks!</span></i></div>
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I know some hate the selfie craze that has taken hold with so many people, but for me it's been a great thing. I didn't find myself in a great deal of photos up until a few years ago; some because I'm usually the one behind the camera and two because of the way I felt about myself & the fears I had. Selfies have been an amazing thing for me once I started following a group of ladies (#365feministselfies) on Instagram last year. See a great explanation <a href="http://www.allparenting.com/my-life/articles/970029/365-feminist-selfie-project" target="_blank">here</a>. To be able to show the real you, not always the "made up" you. I think that's pretty awesome and was something I could get behind. Myself and other women should feel comfortable being ourselves, for showing our everyday faces, and sharing that love with each other. And so, I have become much more comfortable having my photo taken. And I intend to continue taking selfies or having my photo taken; it's a beautiful thing.</div>
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And here comes a difficult photo to share....</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzDE_oXDr-IgS7q0nEtcq4IRB83cBLiTAaDDWLFI3YC5Ol5wLrGaaTgEsB115tXOMiUIopkGzd4nJiC2sV2F00-3oB7BNMMN2MKix3FS8R9VAYGOn36Dccuvn3dLbu-OHcXh3-OPDem0Y/s1600/IMG_8783.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzDE_oXDr-IgS7q0nEtcq4IRB83cBLiTAaDDWLFI3YC5Ol5wLrGaaTgEsB115tXOMiUIopkGzd4nJiC2sV2F00-3oB7BNMMN2MKix3FS8R9VAYGOn36Dccuvn3dLbu-OHcXh3-OPDem0Y/s320/IMG_8783.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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Low point? The ugly? Not sure what to call it, but this is a side shot of me today. As in 10 minutes ago. I started following some fat-to-fit accounts on Instagram and one of the ladies shared that she was so thankful to have the side shot comparisons 9 months into her journey. And with that inspiration, here is my starting point today. 240.2 pounds of me (<i>ouch, that hurt to put out there</i>). I certainly am not happy with how I feel, how I look, and the concerns of tomorrow's health, so begins this journey. <b>#operationlovemyself</b> I'm calling it. </div>
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This isn't about losing weight. It's about transforming fully into myself. To stop hiding behind the weight and to stop living in so much fear. This is a journey that has been in the making, I've been working with a therapist for 2+ years on personal stuff and that work will continue. Heck, that work work will be a lifetime journey in itself. I've worked to set up tools & techniques and will continue adding more to my life in order to be the healthiest me I can be.</div>
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Emotionally, mentally, spiritually, physically.</div>
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I've been trying to create more movement within my day. From parking further away in a parking lot, to taking the stairs, to yard work, etc. This morning I hopped on the bike for a quick two mile ride. About 20 seconds of it sucked, but the rest made me feel wonderful. And almost an hour later, I'm still feeling the energy high. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtv6evlojd6sSCTUaM9rO5sYugCYHR_9buB0Y69LtfubqLgkAcpLZTVXVx0H72JSyrga0JNeXRVyvXfzwdY7PT_wxziYvTuZ1eynm5guBl_PveNr6eF011Mv77EH3dGL7ARGBjeW9QQ1w/s1600/IMG_8777.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtv6evlojd6sSCTUaM9rO5sYugCYHR_9buB0Y69LtfubqLgkAcpLZTVXVx0H72JSyrga0JNeXRVyvXfzwdY7PT_wxziYvTuZ1eynm5guBl_PveNr6eF011Mv77EH3dGL7ARGBjeW9QQ1w/s320/IMG_8777.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Since part of my wellness journey is to engage my right brain more with creativity and play as well as inviting more movement, I want to write about my journey. It's not for you, dear read, but for me. Without being disrespectful, I don't care if anyone reads this. This is my space to write and express my journey, for me. I just happen to have a public space to do so in. However, if you do stop by for a read now and then, please feel free to offer some encouragement and love. <i>Ack, asking for that was almost as painful as sharing the photo and weight.</i> I would so greatly appreciate knowing others out there are supportive.</div>
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And on that closing note, be well everyone!</div>
<br />~Denise~http://www.blogger.com/profile/01586221664679114198noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166179636821676994.post-7198274200954456262015-05-07T22:56:00.000-05:002015-05-07T22:56:04.790-05:00Bumps in the roadTook a minute to scroll the facebook feed and came across this, posted by a Buddhist page I follow:<br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;">"<span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; display: inline ! important; float: none; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19.32px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px;">You will only be surrounded by annoying people and frustrating situations until you learn not to get annoyed or frustrated. Then you will only see them as people and situations, nothing more."</span></span></i></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times,"Times New Roman",serif;"><i><span style="background-color: white; color: #141823; display: inline ! important; float: none; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 19.32px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 1; word-spacing: 0px;"> </span></i></span></div>
And with that the righteous indignation blew almost fully out of me. Tonight I have been incredibly frustrated. And feeling alone, disappointed, hurt, fearful, and a few other things I'm not delving too deep for. <br />
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I am fighting my schema, or framework, tonight. I got stuck, and still am a bit, in my traits. Traits that I am working through and beyond, but it is the framework and has been for 30+ years. <br />
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I'm not sure where things are going from here. I feel like my relationship may be at a crossroads. Only, I'm the only one that probably feels that way. Which is part of the problem.<br />
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I am fighting shame and fear so hard tonight. And self-deprecation. And the knowledge as well as knee jerk reaction of self sacrifice. <br />
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Fear of abandonment, fear of lack of perceived control, fear of the intensity of my emotions, fear of happiness, fear of being authentic. And I continue on the merry-go-round. I continue to create and encourage chaos in my life. For so many reasons.<br />
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I have no ownership over his actions. He is responsible for himself and I can only choose how I react.~Denise~http://www.blogger.com/profile/01586221664679114198noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166179636821676994.post-51059420987312774022015-04-30T19:36:00.000-05:002015-04-30T19:36:12.033-05:00May 2015 Preeclampsia Awareness MonthIt's that time of year again. The time in which I roll out the red carpet for preeclampsia awareness. In reality, I do that all year long; however there is always a highlight that happens in May. May is designated as Preeclampsia Awareness Month (#PreAM) and also happens to be the month in both my preeclampsia babies were born. <br />
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Quick recap....<br />
<b>Baby 1</b> - HELLP Syndrome (class I) at 34w5d; Ariana is born weighing 4lbs and spends 18 days in the hospital. <br />
<b>Baby 2 </b>- Gestational hypertension at 32 weeks, induced at 37 weeks with a preeclampsia diagnosis. My BP upon check-in that morning was 200/100. Phoenix was born weighing 5lb6oz and got to come home with us two days later.<br />
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I've been involved with the Preeclampsia Foundation since late 2003 and volunteering for over 10 years now. In that time, I've had the honor and priviledge of meeting some incredible individuals who make a difference each day in the lives of moms & babies and individuals who have lost their loved ones (sometimes a baby, sometimes a mom, sometimes babies, sometimes mom & baby).<br />
<br />
So, don't know what I'm talking about? You didn't know moms could get really sick during pregnancy? Need to know more? Be sure to check out www.preeclampsia.org. <br />
<br />
Do it. Right now. You can come back here later and visit. <br />
<br />~Denise~http://www.blogger.com/profile/01586221664679114198noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166179636821676994.post-82947262695567366502015-03-24T11:39:00.002-05:002015-03-24T11:39:46.962-05:00time fliesTime flies when one is adventuring in life, doesn't it. Things are settling down after some bumpy times, that includes me, which is a wonderful thing. I've had some terrific opportunities that I am so thankful for and along with that has come the support of my loved ones. ~Denise~http://www.blogger.com/profile/01586221664679114198noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166179636821676994.post-40954488338245765602015-01-14T10:30:00.000-06:002015-01-14T10:30:01.298-06:00Family Photo<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK4Z8kMHlculDt2106L5auKPtKlUzxlC8_JDgg8xx_ZpNrsbHFunRzg0oeKXPo6_yDu4wxRbgdDtfIs2C3T4Ley3CeCRERmm4D-U8q1nyyhFxC0Dp-nFebn4JqGcfTyJrf7Tf5-35T-Qk/s1600/IMG_3758.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK4Z8kMHlculDt2106L5auKPtKlUzxlC8_JDgg8xx_ZpNrsbHFunRzg0oeKXPo6_yDu4wxRbgdDtfIs2C3T4Ley3CeCRERmm4D-U8q1nyyhFxC0Dp-nFebn4JqGcfTyJrf7Tf5-35T-Qk/s1600/IMG_3758.JPG" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />~Denise~http://www.blogger.com/profile/01586221664679114198noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166179636821676994.post-9711329275587091282015-01-12T08:10:00.002-06:002015-01-12T08:10:44.402-06:00Time for me to flyIn an effort to take care of myself, I've started tracking my food and exercise in My Fitness Pal. I've tried off and on before, but would log info for a day or two and then forget about it. Well, I'm a week in and haven't skipped a day yet. Only two of those days, I was over my calories. One of them was but about 50 calories and the other was a total loss, which I acknowledged. It was a day when emotional eating 100% took hold and I am aware of it. <div>
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<div>
With sticking with this for a week, it has already caused a few moments where I checked my calorie intake for the day before making a food choice. And it has helped. So, I'm going to also try and write about my journey as well. Figured it's time for me to fly and just put it out there. </div>
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<br /></div>
<div>
At my highest weight, I weighed 244 lbs. This was almost a year ago. Currently, I've been hanging out between 235-238; however with some of the changes over the last few weeks and being honest with myself about why I'm eating, I have lost a few pounds and at my last weigh-in was 232 lbs. </div>
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<div>
This journey isn't about me having a dramatic weight loss which involves a 21 day fix or paleo, etc....this journey is about me loving myself and believing that I am worthy of taking care of. Self-love is the journey and my motivation. The weight loss will come along with that just as the gain did all those years of self-loathing and hate. It may be slow, but I need to go at my own pace. I will push myself, challenge myself, and have days of failure, but it's one day at a time and a step backwards doesn't mean "I" am a failure or that I can use that as an excuse to quit my journey.</div>
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I look forward to this year and the opportunities that await.</div>
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~Denise~http://www.blogger.com/profile/01586221664679114198noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166179636821676994.post-87490314929494643362014-09-28T20:08:00.001-05:002014-09-28T20:09:45.173-05:00feelingstonight i am feeling so damn alone. and my heart is hurting so damn bad. we experienced a major bump in the road of life this afternoon and it's bringing stuff up to the surface and making me face some of my demons. as much work as i have done working through issues, the major fear of being left or rejected still remains. how to articulate the feeling is difficult.<br />
<br />
so in my usual way of attempting to manage my feelings, i have been working on tasks so i can feel accomplished about something. scrubbed the toilet - check. got the kids fundraising stuff completed - check. and now i sit to work on the teacher letter i need to write (and have been meaning to do) for the youngest child. this is probably not the optimal time to be doing so. he had a blow up earlier and the aftermath rocked us all. of course, i am the one who will hang onto the aftermath & all it's shit. and the letter in which i share my son's strengths and weaknesses is just too much for tonight.<br />
<br />
i feel tender, scared, apprehensive, guilty, and alone. and i knew i needed to process feelings rather than stuff them, so i sat down to write. this is so short and doesn't share a great deal, but this post is my life preserver this evening. ~Denise~http://www.blogger.com/profile/01586221664679114198noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166179636821676994.post-33274713361309307502014-09-02T13:27:00.000-05:002014-09-02T13:27:15.365-05:00First Days<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>A ship is safe in harbor, but that's not what ships are for.</i></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
It's the first day of school in this neck of the woods and my eldest joined the middle school ranks. I have never cried at the first day of school. Daycare, yes, school, no. This morning, after she boarded the bus and was on her way, I turned toward the house and was overcome with emotion. My baby girl is growing up. </div>
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We haven't always done right by her and have been working to change that. We've protected her a bit too much and sometimes that means she doesn't want to do something or believe that she can do something. We've tried to fix life for her rather than have her figure it out at times. And to know where she's come from with her anxiety to seeing how bravely she faced her fears today, it simply make me verklempt. She shared that she was scared for today last evening, but handled herself with grace and courage. I am so proud of her. She is so damn amazing. The line at the top of the post is one I came across today as someone else shared their emotions of of the first day of school. I read it and was teary-eyed in seconds. These kids are our ships and yes, sometimes they need the safety of the harbor. What they need is the freedom to sail while knowing they have a solid foundation (boat) and that safe harbor to come home to. </div>
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This parenting stuff is hard some days. Some days are fantastic. Today was a bit of both.</div>
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~Denise~http://www.blogger.com/profile/01586221664679114198noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166179636821676994.post-86470092486981622932014-08-26T09:27:00.003-05:002014-08-26T09:29:51.781-05:00The Universe does it again<span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,Sans-serif; font-size: small;">I signed up for and receive emails from the <a href="http://www.tut.com/" target="_blank">Universe</a>. I love reading them and there are many times where the daily email fits for the life moment that is happening. This is today's......</span><br />
<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,Sans-serif;">What
if that one person in your life right now that you're not feeling so
much love for, Denise, was also the one person in your life right now
for whom you could make the greatest difference?
<br /><br />
Cool?
<br />
The Universe</span></i></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,Sans-serif; font-size: small;">This hits so close to home right now, it might as well have dropped a house on top of me. Rather than working at being upset, I need to address my perspective and work to see how I can be of assistance. This person is struggling and I don't believe wants to look at just how much they are struggling. This person is suffering and while I don't have the answers on how to exactly help, I know that I can do better to support this person. I can stop judging, stop being angry with, stop</span><span style="font-size: small;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,Sans-serif;"> </span></i><span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,Sans-serif;">criticizing</span><i><span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,Sans-serif;">,</span></i><span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,Sans-serif;"> and practice more love, more acceptance, and more support. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,Sans-serif; font-size: small;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana,Geneva,Arial,Helvetica,Sans-serif; font-size: small;">I can understand that at first glance, this comes across as a selfish writing. What I have learned this last year is that I can only control my own side of the street, no one else's street. I cannot change this person, but I can change how I react and interact with this person. And in doing so, help us both.</span></div>
~Denise~http://www.blogger.com/profile/01586221664679114198noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166179636821676994.post-21743533282044684562014-08-21T15:20:00.000-05:002014-08-26T09:40:04.354-05:00StrugglingI have gotten away from writing again, which saddens me. However, it is not enough to spur me to actually write. There are moments when I think, "I need to write about this," but it never comes to fruition. <br />
<br />
I am struggling. Partnership, professionally, personally. I feel overwhelmed most of the time and often I just shut down emotionally as a response. I have been working to allow myself to feel emotions, good and bad and all those inbetween, so shutting down is not a good thing. <br />
<br />
I want to get back into expressing myself, but I have this damn fear I need to work through. I am so tired of being afraid of shit. I know that opening myself up and being vulnerable will help, but it's so damn scary to do.~Denise~http://www.blogger.com/profile/01586221664679114198noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166179636821676994.post-69154703133661227672014-01-28T09:28:00.000-06:002014-08-26T09:28:56.756-05:002013 book listI fell way behind and didn't capture all the books near the end of the years, but here's for filing purposes. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
1. The Hobbit by JRR Tolkien<br />
2. Temptation and Surrender by Stephanie Laurens<br />
3. Covet by J.R. Ward<br />
4. Crave by J.R. Ward<br />
5. Envy by J.R. Ward <br />
6. We Hope You Like This Song by Bree Housley<br />
7. Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins<br />
8. Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins<br />
9. And Then She Fell by Stephanie Laurens<br />
10. My Ruthless Prince by Gaelen Foly<br />
11. Beautiful Disaster by Jamie McGuire<br />
12. Awakened by Brenda Davies<br />
13. Reinventing Claire by Darian Wilk<br />
14. Ain't No Sunshine by Leslie DuBois<br />
15. Autumn's Shadow by Lyn Cote<br />
16. Lover At Last by J.R. Ward<br />
17. An Unwilling Conquest by Stephanie Laurens<br />
18. Sold by Patricia McCormick<br />
19. Frozen Heat by Richard Castle<br />
20. i'd know you anywhere by Laura Lippman<br />
21. A Change in Altitude by Anita Shreve<br />
22. Dead Witch Walking by Kim Harrison<br />
23. The Good, The Bad, and the Undead by Kim Harrison<br />
24. Every Which Way But Dead by Kim Harrison<br />
25. What the Duke Desires by Sabrina Jefferies<br />
26. Any Duchess Will Do by Tessa Dare<br />
27. Dance of Seduction by Sabrina Jefferies<br />
28 Switch by Megan Hart<br />
29. After Midnight by Teresa Medeiros<br />
30. The 5th Wave by Rick Yancey<br />
31. Left for Dead: My Journey Home From Everest by Beck Weathers ~Denise~http://www.blogger.com/profile/01586221664679114198noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166179636821676994.post-48840901497606308832014-01-11T20:15:00.001-06:002014-01-11T20:15:52.468-06:00Winter fun day<div><br></div>The kids got ice skates for a gifts this holiday and we headed out to enjoy some evening fun at a nearby park.<div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_hvlUgSuK1EnXr1xo3cTSNxsGAHFnM48WdpEnbfUzyX58dAgp3_cl5MJZq69-1xQzvu5DtFWcNCOmt6660fp6ghXX8gcMHjkTeTFL0Sw8k5bIRFrSPwHqgoqbgnW82rFv4TjNjmduWVQ/s640/blogger-image-1101982716.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_hvlUgSuK1EnXr1xo3cTSNxsGAHFnM48WdpEnbfUzyX58dAgp3_cl5MJZq69-1xQzvu5DtFWcNCOmt6660fp6ghXX8gcMHjkTeTFL0Sw8k5bIRFrSPwHqgoqbgnW82rFv4TjNjmduWVQ/s640/blogger-image-1101982716.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6nNKam74yZphHklMWGXxI3gsu3BKTynmMJVAX0I1fGg85iG1NuQf2UShr2iSEWjfGGT6aQIU7uNxA-thE7N6TE9dH7D__FkRLwQ8TYTgpy6Qqb55O8gu9wj0qEGlymHAtJLI3tE5t21o/s640/blogger-image--1831314915.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6nNKam74yZphHklMWGXxI3gsu3BKTynmMJVAX0I1fGg85iG1NuQf2UShr2iSEWjfGGT6aQIU7uNxA-thE7N6TE9dH7D__FkRLwQ8TYTgpy6Qqb55O8gu9wj0qEGlymHAtJLI3tE5t21o/s640/blogger-image--1831314915.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNjq_u9PjRgguHU4UepuuU_5RGjgcxz8ljD9rNzFCuOkV8exrXKjV2if_xIqFBgWiJHnb9UmiIgAwXBnzBLXPwTwkWgsWGDFFo_p-JSHL-5-lU4XHO6d3wFh5f7UMlxgUOwv3i66Ve3hk/s640/blogger-image--2038841655.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNjq_u9PjRgguHU4UepuuU_5RGjgcxz8ljD9rNzFCuOkV8exrXKjV2if_xIqFBgWiJHnb9UmiIgAwXBnzBLXPwTwkWgsWGDFFo_p-JSHL-5-lU4XHO6d3wFh5f7UMlxgUOwv3i66Ve3hk/s640/blogger-image--2038841655.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>It was a blast. And we discussed snow shoes for future outings.</div>~Denise~http://www.blogger.com/profile/01586221664679114198noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166179636821676994.post-56469347088791297622013-11-07T15:05:00.000-06:002013-11-07T15:05:17.067-06:00appreciation reminderi was having one of those mornings where nothing seemed to work out in my favor. i felt frustrated, but not as much as i have in the past, which is a way good thing for me. i worked to stay positive and it helped. i had an enjoyable lunch period in which i sat in on a presentation by a speaker that talks about how being an adult and follow these dumb rules kills our fun and laughter. what he had to say resonated with me greatly. i headed back to work and learned that a new friend found out she has pancreatic cancer. she's young and has dealt with a host of medical issues in her young life, and this news is just flattening. she says she is going to fight like hell and if anyone can, it's her. <br />
<br />
so dear universe, thank you for the reminder to appreciate life and to not take myself to seriously, and to enjoy each stinkin' moment here on earth. i needed it. and if i have any pull with you whatsoever, dear universe, please go easy on A. she is a truly wonderful human being, one that deserves good things to happen to her. <br />
<br />
best,<br />
denise~Denise~http://www.blogger.com/profile/01586221664679114198noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166179636821676994.post-37802035053031159292013-10-14T08:03:00.001-05:002013-10-14T08:04:46.737-05:00How My Brain Works 37.1014This morning the dog comes in from his morning routine and promptly settles in to cleaning himself. As regularly scheduled, I hear "oh, gross" and "Chewie's cleaning his penis pocket again. Eww!" from the kiddos. I always catch myself from wanting to call that 'penis pocket' a sheath. Don't know why. I have no idea if that is the technical body part name for it or not. But whenever I think of the word "sheath," I think of this scene from <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7tlgOMjMWsA" target="_blank">Gladiator</a>. I can see into the future that I'll be some old grey hair with a male dog, chasing him around yelling "Sheath your sword!"<br />
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And that folks, is simply how my brain works.~Denise~http://www.blogger.com/profile/01586221664679114198noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2166179636821676994.post-56010444953587523762013-10-05T12:54:00.000-05:002013-10-05T12:54:02.359-05:00N&K, Party IIHighlights from the big day....<br />
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Nikki & Kristin, I am so proud of both of you. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of your special day. I wish you years of love, light, laughter, and joy. All my love, D~Denise~http://www.blogger.com/profile/01586221664679114198noreply@blogger.com1