I walked in to check on Nicholas the other night. His door was shut, the light was shining through the bottom of the door, and when I walked in, I saw just how cool (he thinks) he is.
I wonder if he has cool dreams too?!?!?
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Nicholas is so cool...
He needs to wear shades to bed!!!!
I walked in to check on Nicholas the other night. His door was shut, the light was shining through the bottom of the door, and when I walked in, I saw just how cool (he thinks) he is.
I wonder if he has cool dreams too?!?!?
I walked in to check on Nicholas the other night. His door was shut, the light was shining through the bottom of the door, and when I walked in, I saw just how cool (he thinks) he is.
I wonder if he has cool dreams too?!?!?
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
More First Day Photos
Nicholas ready for first grade.
Isabella ready for Kindergarden.
Gabriella ready for Pre-school.
Isabella finding her name tag.
Nicholas sitting at his desk.
Isabella ready for Kindergarden.
Gabriella ready for Pre-school.
Isabella finding her name tag.
Nicholas sitting at his desk.
And they are off....
Yesterday was the first day of school for the kids.
Nicholas is off to be a big all-day first grader.
Isabella is off to the big school to be in Kindergarden.
Gabriella is off to pre-school.
As most of you know, I was banished from being in the car for Nicholas's first day last year. I am a known silly-la-la and I have no problems admitting it. This year I was ready. I didn't cry all morning nor did I have the urge. I truly felt that I was over this whole crying-on-the-first-day thing. I told Jeff that I was going with him and I swear he raised an eyebrow at me. I thought, "I'll show you."
We piled in the car, walked them to their classrooms, and everyone was excited. Isabella was first. I helped her with her name tag, hung her backpack, and showed her some of her friends that she already knew. I was GREAT!!! UNTIL....I had to say goodbye. I know that this is the day that she has been waiting for for so long and I was happy for her but so sad that she is actually there and growing up. Once the floodgates were open, there was no turning back. I kissed her, told her to have a good day, ran out, took a deep breath and then it was on to Nicholas's class.
He lined up on the playground with his class and walked into the classroom with his friends. Some children were from his class last year and others were totally new faces. He hung his backpack and found his desk and sat down to wait for the others. I signed a couple papers and turned to look at him to say goodbye. NOT GOOD!!! Here is my little boy that I swear was born yesterday, sitting at a big desk in his yellow chair. I know this will be a big year for him but he,too, is growing up.
Gabby was the last one. She has tears everyday when Jeff or I leave but I know she gets over it. She naps well, plays well there, but is very excited when we go to pick her up. I see her carrying her purple backpack, all dressed for school, and I know that she's growing up too but I still remind myself that she is the youngest to go. Nicholas was a month away from turning 3 when he went to school, Isabella was 3yrs and 4 months, and my Gabby-day turns three in Dec. She seems so big yet so small.
At any rate, everyone came home happy and no one, not even Jeff, mentioned my tears.
Nicholas is off to be a big all-day first grader.
Isabella is off to the big school to be in Kindergarden.
Gabriella is off to pre-school.
As most of you know, I was banished from being in the car for Nicholas's first day last year. I am a known silly-la-la and I have no problems admitting it. This year I was ready. I didn't cry all morning nor did I have the urge. I truly felt that I was over this whole crying-on-the-first-day thing. I told Jeff that I was going with him and I swear he raised an eyebrow at me. I thought, "I'll show you."
We piled in the car, walked them to their classrooms, and everyone was excited. Isabella was first. I helped her with her name tag, hung her backpack, and showed her some of her friends that she already knew. I was GREAT!!! UNTIL....I had to say goodbye. I know that this is the day that she has been waiting for for so long and I was happy for her but so sad that she is actually there and growing up. Once the floodgates were open, there was no turning back. I kissed her, told her to have a good day, ran out, took a deep breath and then it was on to Nicholas's class.
He lined up on the playground with his class and walked into the classroom with his friends. Some children were from his class last year and others were totally new faces. He hung his backpack and found his desk and sat down to wait for the others. I signed a couple papers and turned to look at him to say goodbye. NOT GOOD!!! Here is my little boy that I swear was born yesterday, sitting at a big desk in his yellow chair. I know this will be a big year for him but he,too, is growing up.
Gabby was the last one. She has tears everyday when Jeff or I leave but I know she gets over it. She naps well, plays well there, but is very excited when we go to pick her up. I see her carrying her purple backpack, all dressed for school, and I know that she's growing up too but I still remind myself that she is the youngest to go. Nicholas was a month away from turning 3 when he went to school, Isabella was 3yrs and 4 months, and my Gabby-day turns three in Dec. She seems so big yet so small.
At any rate, everyone came home happy and no one, not even Jeff, mentioned my tears.
Sunday, July 06, 2008
Saturday, July 05, 2008
Counting Down
I have reached the point in the month of July where I get excited enough that I feel like I want to jump out of my own skin. Insomnia sets in and I start cleaning my house like a crazy person. Lists are all over my house for the grocery store, people who will be coming into the house and what their responsibilities are, things that need to be done, and things that will need to be here the beginning of Aug. What is going on you ask???
I'M GETTING READY TO GO HOME!!!!
In 2 days I need to have our luggage ready to ship to Mom's house. I try real hard not to take anything on the plane except for me and the children and our snacks and projects. I get all of our clothes ready beforehand and I ship them. Everything is there just before we arrive and I didn't have to carry it.
In 6 days I will drive to the airport and pick up my girlfriend from the East coast. She is spending a few days with us and will help me on the plane for the flight back to WV.
In 11 days I will be flying home!!! I dispise flying but it is a necessary evil. I get motion sickness and it is a long day for me but it seems to disappear the minute I see my Mom. In 11 days, I get to see my Mom and Tom!!!!
In 12 days, I will hopefully see everyone back home. My Grandma, my Dad, my brother, my new nephew and niece that I have yet to meet, my new house that I bought, green grass, blue sky that has no smoke passing by from nearby fires, and all of my friends. I'm so excited!!!
First though, I better finish my lists. Who will pet sit for all of our creatures? Who will collect the mail? How will my business run while I am gone? Is everything in order for me to leave?
I know that everything will run smoothly while I'm away but I need to have something to think about while I'm up ALL NIGHT, right??? On second thought, who cares!!! I'M GOING HOME!!!!
I'M GETTING READY TO GO HOME!!!!
In 2 days I need to have our luggage ready to ship to Mom's house. I try real hard not to take anything on the plane except for me and the children and our snacks and projects. I get all of our clothes ready beforehand and I ship them. Everything is there just before we arrive and I didn't have to carry it.
In 6 days I will drive to the airport and pick up my girlfriend from the East coast. She is spending a few days with us and will help me on the plane for the flight back to WV.
In 11 days I will be flying home!!! I dispise flying but it is a necessary evil. I get motion sickness and it is a long day for me but it seems to disappear the minute I see my Mom. In 11 days, I get to see my Mom and Tom!!!!
In 12 days, I will hopefully see everyone back home. My Grandma, my Dad, my brother, my new nephew and niece that I have yet to meet, my new house that I bought, green grass, blue sky that has no smoke passing by from nearby fires, and all of my friends. I'm so excited!!!
First though, I better finish my lists. Who will pet sit for all of our creatures? Who will collect the mail? How will my business run while I am gone? Is everything in order for me to leave?
I know that everything will run smoothly while I'm away but I need to have something to think about while I'm up ALL NIGHT, right??? On second thought, who cares!!! I'M GOING HOME!!!!
Friday, July 04, 2008
Fourth of July
Nicholas and I participated in the Run for Independence this morning. This was his first race and although he was telling everyone that we were running the five mile, he woke up this morning at 5:00 and asked if we could do the two mile instead. :-)
They fired the gun and he took off like at bat out of you-know-where. He ran ahead of me most of the way but kept stopping so I could catch up. About three quarters of the way he asked if I could please walk with him for a little bit. He rook off so fast and went so long that I think he ran a little low on gas. We walked about two city blocks and then ran very slowly. He had the finish line in sight where Daddy was standing with the girls and they were all screaming for him and he sprinted for the end.
Nicholas finished the two mile race in 21.56 and I crossed in 21.57. I'm not sure exactly how many people participated overall (they will post the results in a week or two) but Nicholas crossed 119th and I crossed 120th. A friend crossed in the 150's so for being his first race, he was a winner to me just for participating and finishing.
His claim to fame and what he is telling everyone...He beat me!! Someday he will realize the truth and give me Mother of the Year, I'm sure. It's all about building the self-esteem in a six year old little boy!!! :-)
They fired the gun and he took off like at bat out of you-know-where. He ran ahead of me most of the way but kept stopping so I could catch up. About three quarters of the way he asked if I could please walk with him for a little bit. He rook off so fast and went so long that I think he ran a little low on gas. We walked about two city blocks and then ran very slowly. He had the finish line in sight where Daddy was standing with the girls and they were all screaming for him and he sprinted for the end.
Nicholas finished the two mile race in 21.56 and I crossed in 21.57. I'm not sure exactly how many people participated overall (they will post the results in a week or two) but Nicholas crossed 119th and I crossed 120th. A friend crossed in the 150's so for being his first race, he was a winner to me just for participating and finishing.
His claim to fame and what he is telling everyone...He beat me!! Someday he will realize the truth and give me Mother of the Year, I'm sure. It's all about building the self-esteem in a six year old little boy!!! :-)
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Accomplishments
Say NO to.....
And YES to...
I started potty training Gabby on Monday and she had it mastered by Wednesday and there is no looking back. She has had ZERO accidents and is so proud of herself. (Then again, maybe it's the sugar from all of the M&M's she got each time she went.) :-)
Regardless, I wake up every morning and tell everyone to get dressed without changing ANY diapers. For SEVEN years, I have changed one, and at times, multiple diapers on multiple children ALL DAY!!! NO MORE!!!! :-)
(Is this a bigger accomplishment for Gabby or for me???)
BIG GIRL!!!!
And YES to...
I started potty training Gabby on Monday and she had it mastered by Wednesday and there is no looking back. She has had ZERO accidents and is so proud of herself. (Then again, maybe it's the sugar from all of the M&M's she got each time she went.) :-)Regardless, I wake up every morning and tell everyone to get dressed without changing ANY diapers. For SEVEN years, I have changed one, and at times, multiple diapers on multiple children ALL DAY!!! NO MORE!!!! :-)
(Is this a bigger accomplishment for Gabby or for me???)
BIG GIRL!!!!
Saturday, June 21, 2008
Seeing Brad live
Jeffrey and I took the kids to their first concert. They were so excited and when we parked next to Brad's trucks, I couldn't resist. Since they consider Brad a part of our family, Isabella couldn't understand why Brad wouldn't come up in the stands to sit with her. I tried to explain that Brad had to stay on stage so everyone could see him. She then wanted to know why she couldn't go down on the stage with him. If only I had all of the right answers for her!!!
The kids did very well. They were decked out in their cowboy hats, boots, and Isabella stood most of the concert and danced. Nicholas was intrigued with all of the lights and the show that Brad puts on behind him on the screens.
About 40 minutes after Brad took the stage, they got real tired. Since I will be seeing Brad in 4 weeks when I go home, I didn't mind leaving early. This night was about them afterall. I think everyone had a great time.
Hanging up their hats in the back window before crashing out (sleeping) on the hour drive home.
The kids did very well. They were decked out in their cowboy hats, boots, and Isabella stood most of the concert and danced. Nicholas was intrigued with all of the lights and the show that Brad puts on behind him on the screens.
About 40 minutes after Brad took the stage, they got real tired. Since I will be seeing Brad in 4 weeks when I go home, I didn't mind leaving early. This night was about them afterall. I think everyone had a great time.
Hanging up their hats in the back window before crashing out (sleeping) on the hour drive home.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Happy Father's Day to Jeffrey
These are two of my favorite pictures right now. The kids were wrestling on the floor with their Dad and in a split second, they made this pyramid and started making funny faces. I used it to my advantage and had this picture framed for Jeffrey as a gift for today.
On the other side of the frame, just the three of them.
Happy Father's Day in all of your silliness!!!
On the other side of the frame, just the three of them. 
Happy Father's Day in all of your silliness!!!
Wednesday, June 04, 2008
Two for the price of one
Nicholas is off to First Grade.
Isabella is off to Kindergarten.
Lets not forget that Gabriella is off to Preschool!!
Sad. Sad. Sad.
Isabella is off to Kindergarten.
Lets not forget that Gabriella is off to Preschool!!Sad. Sad. Sad.
Merced's newest First Grader
Yes, he is pretty proud of himself. He has been waiting for this day (just to torture me) for a while now. He surprised me with his outfit because I told him he could wear anything besides a white shirt...pictures do not turn out very well. He chose Hawaiian and I loved it!!! He sang well, sat still (a feat in itself since there were 120 graduates), and made his family very proud.
Our conversation just before he left for school...
N: Mom, are you going to cry through the ENTIRE thing?
(who me??)
Me: Yes, get used to it!!! :-)
N: Huge sigh and rolled eyes!!
Just before he left for the big day!!!
Congrats from Grandma Rose.
Congrats from Grandma and Papa. Grandma treated Nicholas to Barnes and Noble and Jamba Juice after graduation.
Congrats from Mommy!!!
Our conversation just before he left for school...
N: Mom, are you going to cry through the ENTIRE thing?
(who me??)
Me: Yes, get used to it!!! :-)
N: Huge sigh and rolled eyes!!
Just before he left for the big day!!!
Congrats from Grandma Rose.
Congrats from Grandma and Papa. Grandma treated Nicholas to Barnes and Noble and Jamba Juice after graduation.
Congrats from Mommy!!!
Sunday, June 01, 2008
All-Star 2008
Nicholas was named to the Tee-ball All Star team for 2008. This is his third consecutive year and he still gets excited about playing.
Halfway through the first inning, the coach put him at first base and he stayed there throughout the game. He got three players out and made some great catches.
His first at bat, he doubled into the outfield and he grounded to third his second at bat. Both times he ran the bases and crossed home plate.
Here are the highlights....
Got the runner out at first!!!
Another spectacular catch!!! The ball is in his mitt!!
Swinging for the outfield!!
Waiting his turn on the bench.
Halfway through the first inning, the coach put him at first base and he stayed there throughout the game. He got three players out and made some great catches.
His first at bat, he doubled into the outfield and he grounded to third his second at bat. Both times he ran the bases and crossed home plate.
Here are the highlights....
Got the runner out at first!!!
Another spectacular catch!!! The ball is in his mitt!!
Swinging for the outfield!!
Waiting his turn on the bench.
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Graduation day 2008
Well, this is what a graduating pre-schooler looks like. Everyone thinks that growing up is something that should be done around here but I highly disagree. :-)
Isabella went through her graduating ceremony today and thought that she was going to kindergarten immediately afterwards. She half heartedly sang and did hand motions but was more interested in her dress and dress-up shoes that she got to wear today. She picked this fabulous red dress that is a hand me down from a friend. She reasoned with me that the only red shoes she had to match were her Snow White dress up shoes. I never let her wear them out of the house but how could I argue with the fashion sense of a (almost 5 year old) child when she is right? I caved!!
Her Strawberry Shortcake birthday party is next weekend....hense, the glasses.
No idea where this pose is coming from but she has been doing it all day.
Holding the flag for the Pledge of Allegiance.
Getting hugs from Grandma Carol...preschool teacher.
Happy girl!!!
Look out Kindergarten!!! Here she comes!!!
Congratulations Isabella!!!
Isabella went through her graduating ceremony today and thought that she was going to kindergarten immediately afterwards. She half heartedly sang and did hand motions but was more interested in her dress and dress-up shoes that she got to wear today. She picked this fabulous red dress that is a hand me down from a friend. She reasoned with me that the only red shoes she had to match were her Snow White dress up shoes. I never let her wear them out of the house but how could I argue with the fashion sense of a (almost 5 year old) child when she is right? I caved!!
Her Strawberry Shortcake birthday party is next weekend....hense, the glasses.
No idea where this pose is coming from but she has been doing it all day.
Holding the flag for the Pledge of Allegiance.
Getting hugs from Grandma Carol...preschool teacher.
Happy girl!!!
Look out Kindergarten!!! Here she comes!!!
Congratulations Isabella!!!Wednesday, May 28, 2008
To Do List
TO DO BEFORE BED: (by Gabriella Butticci)
1. Get dressed in jammies. (check)
2. Do hair. (check)
3. Brush teeth. (check)
4. Apply mascara. (check)
5. Smile for Mom because she thinks I'm stinking CUTE!!!! (check)
1. Get dressed in jammies. (check)
2. Do hair. (check)
3. Brush teeth. (check)
4. Apply mascara. (check)
5. Smile for Mom because she thinks I'm stinking CUTE!!!! (check)
Monday, May 26, 2008
Happy Memorial Day
Gabby was in a playful mood this morning and wanted me to keep taking her picture. NO PROBLEM!!! She was hysterical, rolling around, sitting down, standing up, and running in circles.
As we prepare for a picnic with friends, I realized she is the only one in patriotic colors.
Happy Memorial Day everyone!!!
As we prepare for a picnic with friends, I realized she is the only one in patriotic colors.
Happy Memorial Day everyone!!!
Sunday, May 25, 2008
Breakfast of champions
Nicholas woke up and decided that he would like to make breakfast. He got everything ready himself, except for turning on the stove, and I stood by and watched.
A chef maybe???
Concentrating very hard.
Pan full of protein.
Only one mishap :-)
A chef maybe???
Concentrating very hard.
Pan full of protein.
Only one mishap :-)
Thursday, May 15, 2008
You had me at ....
The night time routine around here is getting crazy. No one wants to settle down, take baths, or do homework. Seems the only thing they do are run around like crazy people, their volume is constantly on HIGH, and it is driving me bananas. The other night, whether it is because I was tired or I had just had enough, I sent Nicholas and Isabella to their rooms. In Gabby's defense, she was fine so she stayed with me to watch a little Barney. At that moment, I got the lecture (albeit full of untruths) that they will now settle down, listen, and watch tv with Gabby.
What my children fail to realize is that I have been on this rodeo ride with them before. I'm not going to yell, scream, or get upset. I just don't want them in the room where I am therefore, they need to leave. Seems when they have no audience though, they calm down. At any rate, I said no and they marched off to their rooms.
Five minutes later, Nicholas emerges with this...
What my children fail to realize is that I have been on this rodeo ride with them before. I'm not going to yell, scream, or get upset. I just don't want them in the room where I am therefore, they need to leave. Seems when they have no audience though, they calm down. At any rate, I said no and they marched off to their rooms.
Five minutes later, Nicholas emerges with this...
For the 5 year old-just learning to write-translation:
Mom I love you Please can we watch Barney with Gabby I hope that you will let us watch.
HOW IN THE WORLD DO I RESIST THAT????
Yes, Nicholas. Go get Isabella and you both can watch the show with Gabby.
He had me at I love you :-)
Thursday, May 01, 2008
D-I-G-G-E-R
Proud members of the Digger fan club!!! My children love this little gopher and look for him weekly during the race.
Thank you Grandma Cheyann and Grandpa Tom!! The kids took the shirts out of the box, wore them all night, slept in them, and have them on today at school!!!
We love Digger!!!
Thank you Grandma Cheyann and Grandpa Tom!! The kids took the shirts out of the box, wore them all night, slept in them, and have them on today at school!!!
We love Digger!!!
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
April weather
This past weekend was very warm here in CA...I know close to 90. I broke down and bought a pool for the kids on Sunday. The recipe for the afternoon went like this.
Add one new pool.
Add freezing cold hose water.
Add a very happy Nicholas.
Add a very happy Isabella.
Add a not-so-sure Gabby.
Mix all together and you have a bunch of splashing, jumping in and out of the pool, a third child who doesn't want to get splashed, screaming because she is wet, two older ones who don't want to stop long enough to get her acclamated to the water, and Mom and Dad who didn't want to hear screaming anymore so I went and got towels. All and all they had fun after everyone settled in. WHEW!!
Looking forward to the summer so we can do this every day!!! :-)
Add one new pool.
Add freezing cold hose water.
Add a very happy Nicholas.
Add a very happy Isabella.
Add a not-so-sure Gabby.
Mix all together and you have a bunch of splashing, jumping in and out of the pool, a third child who doesn't want to get splashed, screaming because she is wet, two older ones who don't want to stop long enough to get her acclamated to the water, and Mom and Dad who didn't want to hear screaming anymore so I went and got towels. All and all they had fun after everyone settled in. WHEW!!
Looking forward to the summer so we can do this every day!!! :-)
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
I AM THE.....
First let me apologize for being away for so long. I think my last post was the beginning of Jan but now I am back and ready to fill you in on the last 14 weeks. A lot of things have happened with the kids and I'm happy to catch you up...later. This post is about me and where I have been.
A friend that I normally work out with approached me in Dec and asked if I would like to be on a team of 4 women and participate in a body fat challenge. There were tons of rules but ultimately, it wasn't about pounds lost but BODY FAT lost...2 completely different things. The first thing I said was..."Is this because I have the most to lose?"
It is no secret that after three children, running a business, being what seems like a million miles away from family, keeping my household together and running properly, I have put on weight. I would work out and do real well and then Jeff's schedule would change and I wouldn't be able to do anything for 6 months again. I didn't ponder long on Tracy's question and said I would do it. I then had a little sit down with Jeffrey.
All I asked for was 12 weeks. I don't ask for much and I felt that he could give me, and owed me, 12 weeks to do this. Filling out the paperwork for the challenge brought something to light for me. I always knew it but it was different seeing it on paper. My biggest obstacle is...My husband. His cooking, his schedule, his freedom to do whatever he wanted and me pushed aside, my having to do lots of things on my own. I knew it but didn't want to admit it. At any rate, he agreed and we were off!!!
On Jan 7, my team...The Fat Bottom Girls...met at our gym and got weighed, measured, humiliating pictures taken, and body fat calculated. Every Sunday for the next 12 weeks, we met at 8:00 and got weighed and measured. Body fat was only done twice.. The very beginning and the very end...March 31. Yes, weight and inches meant that you were ultimately going in the right direction but this was a body fat challenge. Who knew how that was going to end up.
I worked my ass off for 12 solid weeks. My children were sick, Jeff was sick twice, I was hurt for a week, life was crazy. Twelve weeks is a long time for life to happen but we learned to encourage each other and get back on the horse. In Feb, I participated in my first 5 mile run since high school. Seems silly but my goal was to finish the 5 mile before my girlfriend (an avid runner and not on my team) finished the 10 mile. I did that by 35 minutes and finished the race in just under and hour. Couldn't believe it. It wasn't pretty but I did it!!!
For six weeks of the challenge, we had a team member down because of surgery on her feet. I first thought that we were for sure going to lose the team challenge so it was all about the individual for the rest of us. I would call Tom..my step dad...every morning on my way to the gym because he is 3 hours ahead of me and the only one awake at such an ungodly hour. He was a HUGE part of my team although I don't think he knew it. He encouraged me all the way but was always the first one to call me crazy. My response was always...If I'm not going to win it, I'm going to come pretty f***ing close.
I would call my dad on Sundays and he wanted to know if I dropped below the yellow line. My mom couldn't believe every week that pounds and inches were coming off. One week I had a seven inch loss!!! Every week my team would plug away. I never knew I could sweat like that and I learned about and felt muscles I forgot existed. Before we knew it, March 30th was upon us. We started as a team and we ended as one.
Tracy lost 10% body fat. HOLY CRAP!!! I thought...just give me half of that!!! Julie lost 10% body fat. Michelle (with the foot surgery) lost 5.2% body fat. I lost 11.68% body fat!!! I jumped, I screamed, my team freaked out!!! I lost 21 pounds and 21 inches. I cried all the way home. I couldn't even speak when I called my Mom and Tom. Everyone that knew this was happening for me called that day and I cried every time. I never dreamt that I could lose such a big percentage in 12 weeks. I tear up thinking about it. I did it!!! I thought the competitor in me was gone. I tried before and was never successful. I DID IT!!!
A week later were the awards. There were 7 teams total. Twenty eight people started the competition, 24 people finished. There were 3 or 4 men and the rest women. All week was a stress because it came down to a .05% difference between first and second place. No one from the gym was saying anything but everyone outside who participated was trying to figure it out. AAAGGGG!!! I needed first or third. Not second. I didn't want to lose by such a small number. My team wanted this and we wanted it badly. We lost sleep and hours trying to figure this out. It was our entire focus for the week. We knew how we did individually but not compared to the other teams. We couldn't wait to get there and find out!!!
After showing the numbers of all the teams combined, pounds lost, pounds of fat lost, body fat percentage lost, the individual awards were given out. OH MY GOD!!!! Never in a million billion years could I have imagined that in a group of 24 people, all of whom now look incredible and I watched how hard they all worked, never could I imagine that I could have won the entire thing. I was so focused on my team's place that the thought never entered my mind. The posterboard was flipped when they announced that there was a three-way tie for first individually and my name was on it!!! OMG!!! Are you freaking kidding me??? I just won the entire thing!!! Three of us tied for first and I was one of them!!! The flood gates opened. I sat in front of a group of 23 other people who worked so hard for this and cried. I came away the BIGGEST LOSER!!! I couldn't breathe and I couldn't believe it.
After I regained my composure, the board was flipped again to reveal that my team tied for first in the group competition as well. YEAH FAT BOTTOM GIRLS!!! We did it!!! We worked hard, we set our minds to it and we did it!!!
We were showered with lots of prizes ranging from healthy food and drinks, tanning, massages, clothing, you name it! You know, you grow up and you strive to fit in and not be called a loser. I have never worked so hard in my adult life and I wear the BIGGEST LOSER title with the utmost pride. I apologize to everyone I talked to that day because I was crying so hard I couldn't speak anything recognizable.
The twist in the end??? We are going another 12 weeks. Here's to part II. Just when you think it's over, you realize you are only halfway there. Bring it on!!!!
PS...As soon as I get my before picture from the gym, I'll post photos!!!
A friend that I normally work out with approached me in Dec and asked if I would like to be on a team of 4 women and participate in a body fat challenge. There were tons of rules but ultimately, it wasn't about pounds lost but BODY FAT lost...2 completely different things. The first thing I said was..."Is this because I have the most to lose?"
It is no secret that after three children, running a business, being what seems like a million miles away from family, keeping my household together and running properly, I have put on weight. I would work out and do real well and then Jeff's schedule would change and I wouldn't be able to do anything for 6 months again. I didn't ponder long on Tracy's question and said I would do it. I then had a little sit down with Jeffrey.
All I asked for was 12 weeks. I don't ask for much and I felt that he could give me, and owed me, 12 weeks to do this. Filling out the paperwork for the challenge brought something to light for me. I always knew it but it was different seeing it on paper. My biggest obstacle is...My husband. His cooking, his schedule, his freedom to do whatever he wanted and me pushed aside, my having to do lots of things on my own. I knew it but didn't want to admit it. At any rate, he agreed and we were off!!!
On Jan 7, my team...The Fat Bottom Girls...met at our gym and got weighed, measured, humiliating pictures taken, and body fat calculated. Every Sunday for the next 12 weeks, we met at 8:00 and got weighed and measured. Body fat was only done twice.. The very beginning and the very end...March 31. Yes, weight and inches meant that you were ultimately going in the right direction but this was a body fat challenge. Who knew how that was going to end up.
I worked my ass off for 12 solid weeks. My children were sick, Jeff was sick twice, I was hurt for a week, life was crazy. Twelve weeks is a long time for life to happen but we learned to encourage each other and get back on the horse. In Feb, I participated in my first 5 mile run since high school. Seems silly but my goal was to finish the 5 mile before my girlfriend (an avid runner and not on my team) finished the 10 mile. I did that by 35 minutes and finished the race in just under and hour. Couldn't believe it. It wasn't pretty but I did it!!!
For six weeks of the challenge, we had a team member down because of surgery on her feet. I first thought that we were for sure going to lose the team challenge so it was all about the individual for the rest of us. I would call Tom..my step dad...every morning on my way to the gym because he is 3 hours ahead of me and the only one awake at such an ungodly hour. He was a HUGE part of my team although I don't think he knew it. He encouraged me all the way but was always the first one to call me crazy. My response was always...If I'm not going to win it, I'm going to come pretty f***ing close.
I would call my dad on Sundays and he wanted to know if I dropped below the yellow line. My mom couldn't believe every week that pounds and inches were coming off. One week I had a seven inch loss!!! Every week my team would plug away. I never knew I could sweat like that and I learned about and felt muscles I forgot existed. Before we knew it, March 30th was upon us. We started as a team and we ended as one.
Tracy lost 10% body fat. HOLY CRAP!!! I thought...just give me half of that!!! Julie lost 10% body fat. Michelle (with the foot surgery) lost 5.2% body fat. I lost 11.68% body fat!!! I jumped, I screamed, my team freaked out!!! I lost 21 pounds and 21 inches. I cried all the way home. I couldn't even speak when I called my Mom and Tom. Everyone that knew this was happening for me called that day and I cried every time. I never dreamt that I could lose such a big percentage in 12 weeks. I tear up thinking about it. I did it!!! I thought the competitor in me was gone. I tried before and was never successful. I DID IT!!!
A week later were the awards. There were 7 teams total. Twenty eight people started the competition, 24 people finished. There were 3 or 4 men and the rest women. All week was a stress because it came down to a .05% difference between first and second place. No one from the gym was saying anything but everyone outside who participated was trying to figure it out. AAAGGGG!!! I needed first or third. Not second. I didn't want to lose by such a small number. My team wanted this and we wanted it badly. We lost sleep and hours trying to figure this out. It was our entire focus for the week. We knew how we did individually but not compared to the other teams. We couldn't wait to get there and find out!!!
After showing the numbers of all the teams combined, pounds lost, pounds of fat lost, body fat percentage lost, the individual awards were given out. OH MY GOD!!!! Never in a million billion years could I have imagined that in a group of 24 people, all of whom now look incredible and I watched how hard they all worked, never could I imagine that I could have won the entire thing. I was so focused on my team's place that the thought never entered my mind. The posterboard was flipped when they announced that there was a three-way tie for first individually and my name was on it!!! OMG!!! Are you freaking kidding me??? I just won the entire thing!!! Three of us tied for first and I was one of them!!! The flood gates opened. I sat in front of a group of 23 other people who worked so hard for this and cried. I came away the BIGGEST LOSER!!! I couldn't breathe and I couldn't believe it.
After I regained my composure, the board was flipped again to reveal that my team tied for first in the group competition as well. YEAH FAT BOTTOM GIRLS!!! We did it!!! We worked hard, we set our minds to it and we did it!!!
We were showered with lots of prizes ranging from healthy food and drinks, tanning, massages, clothing, you name it! You know, you grow up and you strive to fit in and not be called a loser. I have never worked so hard in my adult life and I wear the BIGGEST LOSER title with the utmost pride. I apologize to everyone I talked to that day because I was crying so hard I couldn't speak anything recognizable.
The twist in the end??? We are going another 12 weeks. Here's to part II.
PS...As soon as I get my before picture from the gym, I'll post photos!!!
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
snow
I know that it may be hard for some people to believe, but here in California, life isn't all sun and tank tops. Most days yes, but not every day. :-)
Over the Christmas break, Jeff and I took the kids to the snow. Now, we had to drive about 1 1/2 hours and purchase or borrow everything that we wore because we don't keep all of that cold weather gear handy anymore. I was a little concerned about Gabby since it was going to be so cold but she loved it. We went to a place that is a huge hill and only sledding is allowed. We bought plastic sleds and couldn't use them because we would have gone down the hill too fast. Only tubes were permitted and only Jeff and Nicholas went down the hill.
Nicholas loved going down the hill but wasn't a fan of going up. This park/hill had a crane like apparatus that would pull your tube up the hill (you in it) but it was broken on this particular day. FIGURES!!! He had a snowball fight with Dad which was fun until snow went down his jacket. Princess Isabella was Princess Isabella. She went down a little bunny hill a few times, made a snow angel, but really didn't get in to the whole thing. Gabby, she loved it. She sat on the plastic sled that we bought and I pulled her around wherever I went. She made a snow angel, took horse rides on Daddy, and walked around the entire day with her tongue out. Jeffrey went down the hill twice and also provided entertainment for each child...horse, snowball maker, snow angel teacher...whatever they needed. Me??? I took pictures!!!!!!!
The snow just dumped on us all morning and after a short hot chocolate break, we attempted to build a snowman. The snow was too soft and the kids were very cold. Somehow the second half of the day seemed a little colder. Nonetheless, fun was had by all!!!
Snowbunny Princess Isabella :-)
Nicholas with snow down his jacket :-)
Gabby!!!
Proof that I was there!!!!
Over the Christmas break, Jeff and I took the kids to the snow. Now, we had to drive about 1 1/2 hours and purchase or borrow everything that we wore because we don't keep all of that cold weather gear handy anymore. I was a little concerned about Gabby since it was going to be so cold but she loved it. We went to a place that is a huge hill and only sledding is allowed. We bought plastic sleds and couldn't use them because we would have gone down the hill too fast. Only tubes were permitted and only Jeff and Nicholas went down the hill.
Nicholas loved going down the hill but wasn't a fan of going up. This park/hill had a crane like apparatus that would pull your tube up the hill (you in it) but it was broken on this particular day. FIGURES!!! He had a snowball fight with Dad which was fun until snow went down his jacket. Princess Isabella was Princess Isabella. She went down a little bunny hill a few times, made a snow angel, but really didn't get in to the whole thing. Gabby, she loved it. She sat on the plastic sled that we bought and I pulled her around wherever I went. She made a snow angel, took horse rides on Daddy, and walked around the entire day with her tongue out. Jeffrey went down the hill twice and also provided entertainment for each child...horse, snowball maker, snow angel teacher...whatever they needed. Me??? I took pictures!!!!!!!
The snow just dumped on us all morning and after a short hot chocolate break, we attempted to build a snowman. The snow was too soft and the kids were very cold. Somehow the second half of the day seemed a little colder. Nonetheless, fun was had by all!!!
Snowbunny Princess Isabella :-)
Nicholas with snow down his jacket :-)
Gabby!!!
Proof that I was there!!!!
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