I've got a new attitude!!!

My attitude has been pretty bad lately. I have been blaming others for the way I have felt. I have had many discussions with myself in my head. (I hope I'm not the only one who does this!) I have been trying to figure out why I am so unhappy, angry, vengeful and hateful when I have so much to be thankful for. I am usually a positive person, but that has changed lately. I don't know why, but I am determined to change. I don't enjoy feeling uneasy and angry all the time. I am missing out on some good times because I am too busy wasting my energy being mad. So what if not everybody likes me? I have to learn to like myself. I can't do anything about what has happened in my past. I can only change things now. I have the most wonderful husband and three sweet and healthy kids who think I hung the moon. I have a few close friends who love me even when I don't deserve it. I am healthy and physically able to do everything I need/want to do. Sure I could do some things better, but don't we all have room for improvement? I need to stop comparing myself to others. When I compare myself I always end up feeling horrible about myself. I know this, but continue to do it. I am going to make a conscious effort to look on the bright side, appreciate the people who choose to be a part of my life and look for the blessings around me each day. I am sure my outlook will change and hopefully I will be much happier. I have so much to be thankful for. I am truly blessed beyond measure.

Feelings

I'm sure it's no secret that I have been having a tough time lately. The holidays have brought some feelings and hurts to the surface and I can't seem to control them. Usually I can do a pretty good job at pretending things are fine and/or stuffing my feelings deep down inside. For some reason, though, I can't do it anymore. I'm tired, cranky, hurt, sensitive, emotional and angry. Yes, I have prayed about it. Yes, I have tried to distract myself. Yes, I have talked about it- to Drew. Those things helped temporarily, but then the feelings rear their ugly heads and I lose control. I am to the point where I don't want to see or speak to anyone outside of my little circle of five (me, Drew and my kids) and one or two friends. I don't care if I hurt anyone's feelings. I am in self-preservation mode and I am just trying to protect myself. I may end up spending the rest of the holidays holed up in my house. That would be perfectly fine with me. Am I depressed? Probably. Am I going to do anything about it. Nope. I'm sure it will pass just like it always has before. I don't know how long it will take, but I'm willing to just ride it out. I don't know why certain times of the year have to be so hard. I guess that's just how life goes. I guess I will just try to make it through the holidays the best I can and try to get back on track after these feelings pass.

Sweet Suprise

This morning I decided to go out for a run. Drew had to work today so I was trying to get back before he had to leave. About 3/4 of the way into my run I look up and there he is standing on the corner. Shocked, I asked him what was wrong. He smiled and said he just needed one of my kisses. I love that man so much. I know I didn't do anything to deserve him. I just hope I can do enough to keep him.

Second Half

Today I ran my second half-marathon. Last year I swore I would NEVER do another one. I even used some colorful words when I said it! I didn't think I would ever run again. After calming down and changing my workout routine, I reconsidered. I signed up for another one six months ago knowing that I would have to do it if I paid for it. We trained all fall and finally race day came. My goal this year was to enjoy it. I am proud to say that not only did I enjoy it this time, but I ran my personal best time of 1:58. That was even done in 45 degree temps and rain. I really think the rain helped by keeping us cool. I am even contemplating running a full marathon in the next few months. I may not be able to run the whole thing, but I want to complete one.

I am so thankful for Drew's support and understanding that this is something I want to do. He may not understand it, but he has told me more than once that he will support whatever I want to do. I am blessed by that man.

I always hated running. I wasn't good at it and I just didn't like it. I am stocky and have short legs. I am definitely not build like a runner! At one time I worked up to running five miles at a time. That was quite an accomplishment for me. I didn't do it very often because it hurt! :0) After I had kids just running a mile or two was torturous. I knew running would change my body, but I just didn't like it. Once Nancy and I started running together I started getting better at it and it didn't hurt so much. I finally realized that I could be a runner even though I'm not build like a runner and always hated it. I may not be fast, but I just try my best. I won't say that I enjoy running for the sake of running,yet, but hopefully I can get there. I like how I feel AFTER I run and I like how much stronger I have become, so maybe one day I will like to run for enjoyment. Who knows! Miracles happen every day!

Training and Stuff

It's been a while since my last post. That is because life is crazy busy right now. When I get home from work I only have time to make dinner, help with homework and get the kids ready for bed. When I do finally sit down, I don't want to sit at the computer. I hope life slows down a little bit to allow for more blogging time, but I just don't see how or when. I can hope, though.

My second half-marathon is less than two weeks away. I know after running one last year I said I wouldn't do another one, but I guess I lied. I said I was giving up running. It was too hard on my body and I didn't like it. That lasted exactly one week. So, in June I signed up to run another half-marathon. My goal this year is to enjoy it and take in the atmosphere of the run and have fun with my training partner. I would like to beat my time of 2:06, also. We are aiming for a time of right under 2 hours. I hesitate putting this out there, but I really think we can do it. Based on our training times, we are right there. I am hoping the adrenaline will help us reach that goal.

We started our long runs thirteen weeks ago. We have been running on Saturdays with one Sunday mixed in there because of a scheduling conflict. We never missed a week. We started off with four miles and added a half mile or, just recently, a full mile each week. We worked up to 12 miles. That run was yesterday and was definitely the toughest one for me. More on that later.

So, on Saturday we run outside around my neighborhood. During the week we do a variety of activities. On Monday we do the Nike Training Club app for 30 minutes and run 4 miles. Tuesdays and Thursdays we do Nike Training Club for 45 minutes and either the stairclimber or elliptical for 15-20 minutes. Tuesday and Thursday afternoons I teach a Boot Camp class after school. On Wednesdays we run 7-8 miles on the treadmill, depending on our speed and how much time we have. Fridays are our yoga days. Saturdays are long run days. Yeah, it's a lot, but I am SO much stronger this year than I was last year.

Last year I struggled through the long runs and was physically ill for about a day afterward. I have only had a couple of days like that this year and it usually followed a run that was in the heat and or humidity. Yesterday was the first time this "running season" that my knees hurt. They ached SO BAD all day long and into the night. I even went to bed with heat wraps wrapped around each knee. Today they have been a little sore, but definitely less sore than yesterday. It's just something I am going to have to put up with, I guess.

Next Saturday we are doing a short 5 mile run just to give ourselves a little break before we run on the 4th. I think this will help us feel fresh and ready to run the whole 13.1 really strong. I know 13.1 miles doesn't seem like a lot to some serious runners, but I remember a time not that long ago that I could barely run one mile without feeling like I was going to pass out. I have worked really hard to get to where I am today and can finally say that I am proud of what I have accomplished. I can finally say unapologically and with confidence that I am a runner. In the past I wouldn't call myself a runner. Now I am a runner. Not a big deal to most people, but it is a big deal to me.

Nancy and I have already talked about how we are going to change up our training after our run on the 4th. I am excited to have a change and a new focus. We have signed up for the Warrior Dash in April and will probably do a couple of small 5k's in the Spring. I don't know when we will do another half, but I am not going to rule anything out. I would like to do the Tough Mudder, also. We'll see. For now I will focus on our run coming up and see what the future holds.

Random, because that's the way I roll.

My world is SO BUSY right now. Each school year I make a vow to slow down, simplify and not spread myself so thin. Once again, though, I have broken my vow. I think I am busier than I have EVER been. So, I will update with bullet points.

• Last Monday I, with the help of Nancy, started a walking/running club every morning before school starts. Our thought was to have the kids get up and moving in the mornings instead of sitting in the gym. We workout in the mornings and feel so much better in the mornings, so we thought the kids at school could benefit from some morning activity. I didn't know exactly how to start a program like this (I tend to get hung up on the little details), so I found a program that is already established. It is called Mighty Milers and is sponsored by New York Road Runners. Since our school has a high percentage of kids on free and reduced lunch, it is doesn't cost us anything. The kids are trying to walk/run enough to earn a marathon medal. Each time they run/walk 26.2 miles they earn a medal. They can earn up to 4 in a school year. We weren't sure what the response would be, but we have been pleasantly surprised! So far, we have had 175 kids come out to run/walk in the mornings and they have run about 400 miles combined! We have two kids who are already about half-way to their first medal! It is amazing to see 100+ kids running, walking and getting their minds and bodies ready for the day. So far, it has exceeded my expectations. The only down side to it is all the data I have to input each week. Last Friday I stayed at school until after 5:30 just to get their names in the data base. I could only do 100 before I ran out of space. I have had to request more space in the data base and will probably have to stay until 5:00 or so again tomorrow. Once I get everyone entered, though, it shouldn't take that long each week. At least that is what I am hoping!
• Drew is almost finished with football season. This time of year is always so hard for me, but I can finally see the light at the end of the tunnel. Football takes up so much of his time, but I know he loves doing it. As long as he is happy I will do whatever I need to do. He does so much for me each day that I can atleast hold down the fort while he is off coaching and scouting.
• This year I have a split conference period. That just adds to my already tight schedule. I only have 20-30 minutes of uninterrupted time and I just can't seem to get anything done. I also have crosswalk duty after school. It's only 10-15 minutes, but that's just one more thing to do. Oh well, it's a give and take. Give a little here, take a little there.
• I am teaching a Boot Camp class after school on Tuesdays and Thursdays for our parents/staff and whoever else wants to join us. At first I was scared to do this. I am NOT a certifed trainer or expert by any means. I just know what works or has worked for me. I was very self-conscious about it at first, but I am starting to gain some confidence. The ladies who come to the class are hard working and will do anything I ask them to do. I know what they hate to do (froggers and pushups), but they will still do them if I ask them to! I really hope they are getting something out of it and I am enjoying working with them each week.
• I have been doing a Beth Moore study at church on Wednesdays. Drew's mom is one of the facilitators. It has been challenging to do the homework each week, but it has so been worth it. I am learning a lot about myself and my relationship with God. We have 3 weeks to go and I am hoping to finish strong! Bryson has been attending the youth group on Wednesday nights and Drew helps with that. Jackson and Addison go to their classes, too, and seem to be enjoying them.
• Jackson has made a profession of faith (He actually did it last Spring, but never wanted to go to the front of the church to make it public.) and will be baptized soon. I am proud of the sweet boy he is and look forward to watching him grow in his faith.
• Addison is still her crazy self! I have so much fun talking with her and spending time with her. I just love her at 4 years old! She is funny, quirky, sweet, spunky, sensitive, tough, girly and tomboyish. She is the perfect little girl for me!
• Drew got Addie and I tickets to Casa Manana this season so we have some planned "Ladies Days." I love getting to take her out to lunch and to see a show. She loves going and is just the happiest little thing while we are together. I hope we get to do this for many more years. I know I will cherish our time together.
• Bryson is loving middle school and is doing great. He made the "A" honor roll for the first six weeks and seems to have adjusted well. I was worried about how he was going to do in a new school where he didn't know anyone, but he has done just fine.

So, as you can see we are busy, but busy with good things. I can't believe how fast the year is going. It will be summer before I know it. And just in case you were wondering, there are 211 days until Summer 2012!!!

I can feel God...

The other day I was getting ready for work when Addie wandered into my room. She put her hand on my chest and said, "Mommy, I can feel your heart. I can also feel God in your heart." That was just the sweetest thing. My prayer is that God will shine through me in my daily life. I pray that not only will God be IN my heart (which I KNOW He is), but that I will allow Him to shine THROUGH my heart.

I am a quitter.

Today I officially stopped doing Weight Watchers. I cancelled my subscription. I quit. I didn't quit because anything happened or was wrong, I quit because I am ready to continue my journey on my own. I learned a lot while doing Weight Watchers. Now I want to see if I can put what I learned into practice without the accountability of tracking my points daily. I have been slowly weaning myself off of it for the last couple of weeks, so the transition shouldn't be too difficult. I just hope I can maintain my weight loss. Time will tell. If I start to gain and feel like I need the extra accountability tracking my points brings, then I will rejoin. I am not too proud to admit that I may need a little extra help. Judge me if you want.

This journey has been challenging. I started off three years ago over 50 pounds heavier than I am right now. I lost a little on my own before I subscribed to Weight Watchers. I lost about 30 on the plan. The weight didn't come off quickly or easily, but hopefully it will stay off. I have taken myself to new heights physically~ higher than I ever had the desire to go! I have learned that my body can do some amazing things and that it is my job to treat it well. My journey is not over, it is just taking a little turn, hopefully for the better. I am excited about where I am and how far I have come. I hope to be an inspiration to others who are on the same journey and an encouragement to those how may need some motivation. So, long Weight Watchers, you have taught me well!

Remembering

Seven years have passed since my mom's death. (I blogged about it here a few years ago. If you want to know how she died, you can read about it. I know I am always curious about how people die. Call me weird, but that's how I am.) I have thought about her every day since then. Every. Day. This year I decided to think about the good things about her and the good times we had. In the past I have thought about the things I missed about not having her here, about all the things she has missed experiencing with my kids and my family. This year I wanted things to be different~ happier. I know my mom is in a much better place than we are. I know this is not our home and my mom IS at her home. I know she is happy there and I know she is free of pain, discomfort and stress.

This year we are focusing on remembering her and telling the kids about her. Usually when they ask me questions about her, I get sad and start to cry. I don't want them to be afraid to talk to me about her and to ask questions about her for fear of me getting emotional. I want her memory to live on through me and through my kids. We decided to cook some of her favorite foods this year and to talk about some things she liked to do and would have liked to do with us and the kids. I admit that I shed some tears at dinner last night when Drew started talking about her, but they were happy tears, tears of rememberance. He talked about happy times and how she liked to have all the family around her that she could. She liked to be right smack in the middle of all the action! It was not out of character for her to drive 5 hours to Houston to attend a birthday party for one of my cousin's kids. She would drive up to Oklahoma City to dog sit her aunt and uncle's dog. She would drive to our house in Watauga after working all week just to see Bryson for a couple of hours. She would go out of her way for her family and friends. She was loved by many and showed her love through her actions.

Friday night we had egg and cheese sandwiches. She would make those for me and Jamie quite frequently for breakfast. She always put Miracle Whip on the bread. It gave it just the right amount of tang. It was yummy then and it is yummy now! You should try it! Yesterday we made a big breakfast. She would cook us a big breakfast on the weekends. She made the BEST hashbrowns! I made some yesterday, and I must say that they were pretty tasty! Today we made chocolate chip cookies. She just used the recipe on the package of chocolate chips, so I did the same. I haven't eaten one, yet, but I know they will remind me of when I was a little girl. I will have some milk with it, also, just like I used to. For dinner tonight, we made hamburger patties, rice and gravy. We threw in some mixed vegetables just so we wouldn't feel so bad about the gravy! My mom was known for cooking simple, yet tasty meals. She was also known for making meals that weren't the most healthy! That's probably the reason I battle my weight every day of my life! Thanks, Mom!

I miss my mom. I miss the way she kept everyone in the family informed about everyone else in the family. Sure she drove me crazy at times, but I would give anything to be driven crazy by her for just one more day. Since my mom has been gone, I have pretty much lost touch with most of her side of the family. My grandparents are the only ones who make an effort to see me (us) or have anything to do with me (us). I don't know why that is, but I do know this wouldn't have happened if my mom were still here. She was definitely the glue that held everyone together. I may never know why I have become an outcast, but I do know that my mom loved me and would not have let that happen if she were still here.

So, I will continue on with my little family and continue remembering her and the fun times we had together and the good food she made for us. I have learned that life is short and you cannot take one moment for granted. Tomorrow is not promised to us and every day we must try to be the best we can be. I know my mom was a Christian just like my sister was and I am. I have faith that I will see her one day and that all my questions will be answered. I do not know why things happen the way they do, but I do know that God's plan has purpose and that all things happen for a reason. I will continue to remember my mom and hope that her love for her grandkids will be passed on through me.

Needed: Personal Shopper

Addie and I had a Ladies Day yesterday. I had high hopes of a successful shopping day. We went to eat lunch and then went shopping at a few stores. I had a few things in mind that I needed to get, then I just wanted to look around a bit. I discovered, though, that I must have shopping ADD or some other shopping ailment. I would pick something up, then get distracted by Addie hiding in the clothes or by someone that happened to walk by or by something that had fallen on the floor. Then, I would put up whatever I had in my hands. I couldn't even focus most of the time because of the noise, people or overwhelming amount of things in the store. Have stores always been so jam packed full of clothes???

I have wanted to make bows for Addie for a while now, but have just never done it. I thought it would be fun for us to go to Michael's and look at the ribbon. NOT! I didn't take into account that it is Homecoming season in Texas and it was a MAD HOUSE! I wandered aimlessly through the store and had to leave because I could literally feel my blood pressure rising and my sanity leaving me.

In total we went to 7 different stores. It was miserable. I REALLY wanted to buy a new outfit, but I don't even know where to start. Then, if I bought a new outfit I would need new shoes. Oh the horror! I couldn't focus or even think long enough to pick something out to try on. I went home feeling very defeated. I KNOW I need a few new things to wear, but I just don't know where or what or even how! It is all just overwhelming to me right now. So, I will keep wearing my same old clothes, some of which are too big and baggy. I used to love to shop, but not now. I don't know what has happened. I think I just need someone to take me by the hand, pick some things out for me to try on and tell me what looks good and what doesn't. Any takers?!?

Livestrong

Now that school is back in session and I am seeing people I haven't seen in a few months, the questions are starting to be asked. "How have you lost weight?" "Do your really get up at 4am to exercise? Everyday?" "How can I lose weight quickly?" "What kind of exercises can I do?" "Is there a pill or vitamin I should be taking?"

Believe me, I have tried a lot of things to lose weight. I am still trying new things, because I am not quite there, yet. What I have discovered through all my trials and many errors, is that there is not a "magic bullet" or something that works for everyone. You have to find what works for YOU.

I have spent many, many hours at the gym trying to exercise the weight away. In short, it just doesn't work. The key is diet and exercise. When I say "diet" I don't mean a fad, quick or overly-restrictive diet. I mean paying attention (close attention) to what you are eating and trying to eat healthy most of the time. In all my years of fighting the "Battle of the Bulge" I have discovered (finally!) that it is about 75-80% what you put in your face and only about 20-25% hard, consistent exercise. I honestly thought I could exercise hard 5-6 days a week and eat anything I wanted. That only worked to a point. I would lose some, but plateau and the scale would never move. It wasn't until I started doing Weight Watchers consistently that the weight started to come off.

I didn't want Weight Watchers to work. I didn't want to have to change my diet. I wanted to be able to blame my weight on being "big boned" or "muscular" or "genetics." I didn't want to have to be accountable for what I fed my face. Exercise is the easy part of the equation. Eating right is the hard part.

I get weekly emails from livestrong.com and this week there is an interesting article about finding what works for you. I encourage you to read it and find the combination of diet and exercise that helps you be the healthiest you possible.

Daisy

Drew brought home a new (to us) dog Saturday. Yes, he asked me first. Yes, I agreed to it. Yes, I will probably regret it.

One of the teachers at his school was looking to find a new home for her recently spade 18 month-old chocolate lab. She crated him all day and felt bad about that. The dogs' original name was "Chewy" and I'm afraid we will soon find out why. We threw some names around and decided on Daisy.

The kids were very excited to see her (Except for Bryson. He is afraid of big dogs. I don't know why. We have a big dog!). After the kids played with her for a little while, we introduced her to our dogs~ Jessie and Belle. Jessie is a black lab and Belle is a miniture pincher/dauschound mix. Jessie let Daisy know right away who is top dog in our back yard. Poor Belle tried to hide but ended up wet with slobber instead. It really was interesting to watch them relate and communicate with each other in their own dog way.

We went to PetSmart and got new tags made for all three dogs and bought new beds, new collars and a leash for Daisy. Daisy came to us with her crate, so that was one thing we didn't have to buy. Addie picked out a "baby" (stuffed dog with a squeaker) for Daisy, also. Our "free" dog is already expensive!

So, we spent the better part of two days getting adjusted to a new member in our family. Daisy will be an outside dog during the day just like our other two. We will crate her at night which is what we do with Belle and Jessie. Right now we have their crates in the house right by the back door, but only because it is so hot right now. We don't allow our dogs to run around the house. They shed too badly and we don't want to have any "accidents" to clean up!

I am going to try to take her running with me and Nancy on Saturday. I am planning on her being our new running buddy! I need to try to run some of her energy off! She really is a sweet dog and has been so good around the kids. I haven't heard her bark, yet, but I'm sure she can and will.

I am hopeful that Daisy will be a good dog and a positive addition to our family. (I hope I don't have to eat those words!) I will try to get a good picture of her soon.

Count Down

School starts tomorrow! I know I like to post about how many days are left until summer, but I really do enjoy working and I am not wishing my life away. I just LOVE summertime! I love spending time with my kids and sleeping in a little later. I enjoy the freedom of summertime and the later nights. I enjoy spending time outside and in my favorite place. I enjoy being relaxed and not having to rush around in the evenings. So, I am looking forward to another school year (my 17th, if you want to know!), but I will still count down to Summer 2012! Only 277 more days! Have a great school year!

Fabulous Fours

I'm going to try to type out a blog post before my computer decides to explode or fly away. For some reason the fan won't stop running and it sounds like it is about to take off, or explode. If you know why it is doing this, please feel free to let me know. Drew used the shop vac to clean the dust off some little filter thingy or something last night. It's in the big box thingy. As you can tell, I don't know a lot about computer thing(y)s! Don't judge. I don't have a lot of time to devote to computer/technology education. (I don't really care to, either!) :0) Anyway, on to my post.

Addison turned four about six weeks ago. I can say without a doubt, today, that I just LOVE her at four years old! She is so much fun. She is pleasant most of the time and loves to be around me. She often says, "When I'm a big mama, like you, I'm going to..." and then says whatever it is that I am doing at the moment. For example, "When I'm a big mama, like you, I'm going to wear those big brawl." "When I'm a big mama, like you, I'm going to shave all the pokes off my legs." "When I'm a big mama, like you, I'm going to marry daddy." You get the idea!

She has become my little side-kick. Partly because she and I are the only girls in the house and the boys don't want a girl in their rooms most of the time. When she is with me she rubs my arms, plays with my hair and always (no matter what I look like) tells me how beautiful she thinks I am. She loves to hold my hand and will lay her head on my shoulder and tell me how much she loves me. She is just the most precious thing to be around right now.

I am reminded, also, that she is watching EVERYTHING I do, so I have to make sure I am setting a good example for her. The other day she sat on the couch, put her feet up and said, "Boys, who is going to rub my feet?" I don't know where she learned that whenever you sit/lay on the couch you are supposed to have your feet rubbed. ;0)

One day she and I were playing on the floor with her dollhouse. She was the mom and I was the dad, of course. The dad said to the mom, "Honey, I'm home from work. What's for dinner tonight?" She, in her best mom voice said, "Well, I don't actually know how to cook." Yeah, that one hit me pretty hard! Maybe I will attempt to cook more this school year. Then again, that doesn't sound like fun.

I am really going to miss hanging out with her when we go back to work next week. She and I have had a great summer hanging out together.

(Oh, I love my boys, too, but they aren't around me as much as she is. Bryson will still kiss my cheek or forehead and tell me he loves me. (No lips for him. Yes, he is at that age!) Jackson will tell me he loves me, but he is a little more stingy with his affections. That just makes them that much more special when I get them, though.)

So, here's hoping that the rest of Addison's four year old year will be just as sweet!

Oh, and just so you know, I AM counting down to Summer 2012!!! Only 287 more days until Summer 2012!!!

Florida Vacation: Days 9 and 10

There are no pictures of our last two days of vacation~ these were our traveling days. We left Florida at about 7:00 am and intended to drive to Mobile, AL to spend the night. Somewhere along the way, Drew and I decided to take a little detour so we could go by and see my dad in Houston. (I always wish I could be more spontaneous than I really am, so this was a good time to try it out!) We had to drive about 3 hours longer that day, but thought it would be worth it in the end. We considered calling my aunt in New Orleans to see if we could go by and see her and my cousins, but decided not to intrude on them. Then we thought Baton Rouge would be a good place to stop. Houston is about 4 hours from there and Fort Worth is about 4 hours from Houston, so the trip would have been cut in half nicely.

I got on my phone to try to find a hotel. I used priceline, which I had never used before. It was kind of fun! I found us a hotel in east Baton Rouge for about what we were going to pay in Mobile. We were going to stop in Gulfport to eat dinner, but Addison had fallen asleep and we didn't want to wake her up. If we kept driving (kind of fast) we could make it to Baton Rouge and eat a late dinner there. After dinner the kids would have time to swim before bed. That's is what we decided to do. Drew increased our speed, set the cruise control and on we went! We go to our hotel a little after 7:00.

There were several restaurants around, so we took our stuff to our room and went to look for a place to eat. We didn't, however, take into account that it was a Saturday night. There were people waiting outside for a table at EVERY restaruant we drove by. There was a Chili's right next to the hotel, but we really didn't want to eat there. I told Drew that we should just order Chili's to go and take it back to the room. He didn't want to do that, so we drove around a little bit more. EVERY place was packed and we didn't want drive through. Where did we end up? We ordered Chili's to go and took it back to the room. :0) The kids thought it was fun. We told them it was just like room service. They will never know the difference! We have told them Cabela's is the zoo before, too, because Drew hates going to the zoo! Hey, it doesn't stink and it's free!

We went down to the (quite small) pool and there were about 25-30 kids already swimming. We decided it was just too crowded to be safe and went back to the room. The kids weren't happy about that, but disappointments are part of life! They ended up falling asleep very quickly and slept until we woke them up early the next morning.

Sunday morning we left around 7:00 am and go to Houston shortly after 11:00. My dad fixed us hamburgers and we visited until 2:00. I would have liked to stay longer, but I said we would leave by 2:00 and we did. I was so ready to be home by this point. We still had about 4 hours of driving ahead of us.

We got home around 6:30. We had a little detour at a Dairy Queen for a dipped cone and Blizzards, so we were a little behind schedule. Once we got home I put on my workout clothes and headed to the gym. I couldn't stand it any longer. I haven't gone that long without working out since I gave birth to Addison and I was going CRAZY! Drew totally understands when I get like that and he just lets me go do what I need to do. When I got home he had everything unpacked and laundry started. Is he the best, or what?!

So, that was our vacation! We had a great time and I am so glad we decided to go. I can't wait to go back when the kids are a little older. Thanks for following along!

Florida Vacation: Day 8

Day 8 found us back at Magic Kingdom. We thought we would go back for a few hours to do some of the things we had missed. We split up from David and Kelly and said we would meet up later.

Last day~ still smiling!

Anxiously waiting for the gates to open!

A trip to Magic Kingdom isn't complete without a ride on the Jungle Cruise! I know this is a cheesy ride, but it ended up being one of Addison's favorites! I am glad we took the time to go on it.

Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse. We almost passed this up, but thought it would be fun for the kids to walk through it. They were less than impressed. I remember climbing those stairs with my sister when we were kids and we thought it was fun then. I guess kids aren't as imaginative these days! I enjoyed it, though!

Yes, she had her tiara on, again! She was squeezing out all the princess time she could get!

Can't you just read Jackson's mind? "Alright mom, enough with the pictures! Cheese."

We COULD NOT leave without seeing the Country Bear Jamborie! Yes, it is the same as it was when the park opened 40 years ago. Yes, it is just as cheesy now as it was then. Addison thought it was funny and laughed through the entire show. I'm not sure she knew what she was laughing at, but she had a good time! We met back up with David and Kelly at this point.

Of course, we had to circle the park on the Disney Railroad. It was good to be able to sit down and relax a little bit. It was HOT that morning. The weather had been pretty mild until the day before this. We were very fortunate in that regard.

Drew and I on the railroad. Yes, I have a shirt on. Jackson took the picture, so it's just a weird angle!

Standing at the door of Cinderella's Castle. You can tell by the looks on Bryson's and Addison's faces that they had had enough.

One last view of the castle before we left.

They were hungry for lunch at this point and Addison was tired of me taking pictures! Again, they will thank me one day!

Me and my prince at Magic Kingdom. We had a magical time!

We went to lunch at Planet Hollywood at Downtown Disney. Drew was a little quiet at lunch because of the prices! He doesn't spend money freely! :0) I think that is an understatement! He got over it, though, and we moved on. We stopped to take a couple of pictures by the fountain before walking around. We let the kids put their hands in it, but had to stop that because Addison came pretty close to falling in. She's not the most graceful little girl!

She may not be graceful, but she sure is cute!

After a VERY hot walk to the Lego store and a quick look around we decided to go back to the house for one last swim. Drew and I swam with the kids for a couple of hours and David and Kelly joined us a little later. We ordered pizza that night and went to bed early so we could be ready for a long drive the next morning. I hated thinking of leaving, but I was ready to get home.

Florida Vacation: Day 7

The first ride we went on at Hollywood Studios was the Tower of Terror. Jackson, David, Drew and I were the only ones who wanted to ride. Jackson was scared, but he said he would do it. After it was over I bought him a Tower of Terror pin so he could show it off! He was pretty proud of it. Then they wanted to ride the Rock N Rollercoaster. I kept Addie, Jarrett and Bryson with me. I wanted to ride, so we got a child swap ticket so I could ride later with two other people. Meanwhile, we went to get FastPasses for Toy Story Mania and saw Chip and Dale on our way back.

We got back to the exit of the Rock N Rollercoaster just as the rest of our group was finishing. I wanted to go so Kelly and Drew went with me. It was so much fun! I would have ridden it again, but the line was really long at this point.

I wanted to make sure Addie saw the Beauty and the Beast show, so I sat by the entrance while the rest of them checked out some other things. I sat there for about 1 1/2 hours before they started letting people in to sit down. I didn't mind because I wanted us to have a good seat. She LOVES Belle and I wanted her to see her. We go in and sat on the fourth row right in the middle. The seats were PERFECT! We waited about 30 more minutes and the show started. During the opening song Belle's microphone went out. She finished the song then an announcement was made that the show was being cancelled due to technical difficulties. WHAT?!? I waited in the heat for 1 1/2 hours to get those seats and they cancelled the show. Addie immediately started crying. I felt so sorry for her. She was so excited to see Belle and to see her so close up. I was determined to bring her back if that was the only thing I did that day.

We went to lunch and David and Kelly went to do things with their boys and we went our way. We ended up back at the Beauty and the Beast show right before the next show started. Of course the only seats that were left were in the sun, but we decided to stay. Drew and the boys went and stood in the shade, but Addie and I stayed in the sun seats. Let me just say that she did not complain one time about the heat. She kept her eyes glued on that stage. She didn't want to miss one second of seeing Belle. I was so proud of the way she acted. She was such a trooper.

Mrs. Potts, Chip, Beast and Lumiere. The costumes were amazing!

Our favorite part!

Ready for the Toy Story Mania ride! Peace!

Honey I shrunk the kids playground. I wishe we could have stayed here longer, but it looked like it was about to start pouring down rain. We went to the Backlot Tour and it was pretty disappointing. I guess everything can't be great.

Before we left Hollywood Studios, we saw a couple more shows and ate some ice cream and chocolate covered bananas. It was a fun, but exhausting day.

The next day we planned to go back to Magic Kingdom for a few hours. More on that tomorrow!

Florida Vacation: Day 6

Day 6 we went to Cocoa Beach in the morning and stayed several hours. I didn't take many pictures because I didn't want to get more sand in my camera. I got quite a bit in it when we were at Daytona Beach. I built another sand castle this time with the help of David and Drew. It only took about 45 minutes instead of almost two hours. A couple of people came by and took pictures of our sand castle, so I think we did a pretty good job!

David rented a surf board and some of us tried (in vain) to surf. Jonathan, Bryson and I did manage to "surf" on our knees. It is WAY harder than it looks. I gave up after a little while. Bryson gave up after he ran into a lady! In his defense, you can't really steer a surf board and she walked right into his path.

After the beach, we went back to the house, got cleaned up and headed back to Magic Kingdom for the Electrical Parade and fireworks show.

A pink Cinderella's castle~ so magical!

Drew and the castle.

We waited in this spot for about 2 hours. We waited for and watched the parade and the fireworks right here. It rained/sprinkled on us a little bit, but nothing too heavy. Drew did put the umbrella a couple of times, but it wasn't too bad. We were so tired by this point, but we stayed around to ride some rides and left the park when it closed at midnight.

Me and my little princess. She got her tiara on Monday when she went to the Bippity Boppity Boutique and she wore it every day afterward. Sometimes she would get tired of wearing it and she would hand it to me to "share," but she wore it most of the time. All the park workers refer to the little girls wearing tiaras or crowns as "princess," so I know that is why she like to wear it!

Drew on the "Spinner go round!"

We were exhausted after a day at the beach then a few more hours at the park, but we had plans to be up early to go to Hollywood Studios. More on that tomorrow!

Florida Vacation: Day 5

Day 5 found us at Epcot. Since the boys weren't really into the bigger rollercoasters and rides at Magic Kingdom, I thought they would like Epcot.

Our first ride was Test Track. We didn't have to wait in line since we got there right after they opened. Addison rode with us since she was tall enough. I told her it was just like riding in a car. She seemed okay with it until the ride was over. Let me just say that she WAS NOT a fan. She cried and kept saying that she didn't like it. At least she wasn't screaming throughout the entire ride. She saved the crying until we were getting off! Some of them wanted to ride again, so Drew and Bryson took Addison to meet TinkerBell.

Here is Addie waiting in line to meet TinkerBell.

And here she is! TinkerBell was just the tiniest, cutest little thing. Bryson is 5'1" and she is just about his height. I know Bryson thought she was really cute, too!

I took Jarrett and Addie to meet some characters while everyone else went on Mission Space. We met Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Pluto and Goofy. After they rode Mission Space I went back with Jackson and Kelly and rode with them. We rode the green version since I am a wimp. It still made me feel yucky. Drew, David, Bryson and Jackson rode the orange version. Drew wasn't right the rest of the day. He had a little motion sickness going on. Yuck!

After lunch we tried to meet some of the princesses. Here are the kids with Snow White.

Jasmine and Alladin. Addie wouldn't stand by or talk to Alladin "because he is a boy." We'll see if she still feels the same way about boys in 10 years! I hope so!

Belle~ Addie's favorite! The princesses were so sweet and talked quite a bit to the kids. Bryson liked them because they are pretty. Jackson didn't really want to meet them, so he stayed out of most of the pictures. We also met Mulan, but I didn't include the picture for some reason.

We went inside for a little whie to the Innoventions area. The kids played some video games while I tested my balance on a Segway. It was interesting.

We played a saving money game. Addie didn't save too much! She cried when we had to give the piggy bank back. I think she was getting tired at this point. We didn't stay too much longer.

We HAD to see the Nemo ride before we left. It was really cute and Addie liked riding in a "clammobile." I took this picture before Jackson reminded me that I couldn't take pictures with a flash. Oops! I guess I wasn't paying attention during that part!

Drew's face cracks me up. He doesn't usually play around like this, so I had to include this picture. He is a pretty serious guy.

Our last stop was at one of the gift shops. Drew is buying a magnet every time we visit some place new. See? Isn't he fun! (Just kidding, Sweetie! You know I love you and all your little quirks!)

Florida Vacation: Day 4

Oh, I don't even know where to begin. This post is filled with pictures, but this is only a fraction of the ones I took that day. Our day began with a tram ride then a monorail ride to the entrance at Magic Kingdom. We got there in time to see the end of the morning welcome show.

Our first stop was to meet Daisy. The kids got her autograph and had their picture taken with her. Kelly was generous enough to buy the kids lanyards, pins to trade, autograph books and a pen. My kids would have done without all of these things if it weren't for their nice Aunt Kelly!

Of course, we had to take a picture of Cinderella's castle. Addie has been waiting to see it since we pulled out of our driveway! She was SO excited!

Our trip would not have been complete without a picture with Mr. Disney himself.

I am a long-time Disney fan, so I had to get my picture taken, too!

Then we were off to ride some rides! Our first ride stop was Space Mountain. Everyone rode except for Jarrett and Addison. It brought back great memories of when I rode it almost 20 years ago. Jonathan and Bryson weren't fans. They said they wouldn't get on it again!

After Space Mountain, we rode the BuzzLightyear ride, the Stitch ride (It was horrible. I should have heeded the warning from the book I borrowed from a friend.) We rode the race cars, also. The kids thought those were fun. I remember riding that ride when I was a kid and my grandmother brought my sister, Jamie, and I.

Riding the race cars!

Next we went to FantasyLand so Addison could ride the tea cups. She talked about this ride all morning, so she was thrilled when she finally got to ride! Drew and I rode with her and didn't spin too fast.

Who could resist a picture with the Beast? Not Addison!

Here she is waiting in line to ride Dumbo. My kids have never watched Dumbo, but she loved the ride. We waited over 30 minutes for 60 seconds in the air with Dumbo. Who is the Dumbo???

At some point, we ate lunch and went on some more rides. We rode Snow White's Scary Adventures. Addison said it was scary, but she really doesn't like the witch in Snow White and she showed up a lot in the ride.

I'm not sure what ride we were waiting for here.

Another group picture!

This is in line for It's a Small World. Addison really liked this ride. I liked the fact that it was air conditioned! It also brought back memories from years ago.

After a while the boys and girls parted ways. The boys had an appointment to become pirates and Addison had an appointment to be dressed up as Cinderella! Thanks, again, Aunt Kelly!

While we waited for Addison's appointment time we went on the carousel or as Addie called it the "spinner go round."

Of course, we went into some shops. Kelly bought Addison a light-up crown in this one. Can you just see the happiness on her face?

Then it was time for her appointment. They were running a little behind, so we got to sit and see many little girls get dressed up as their favorite princess. We got to enjoy some air conditioning, too!

Aunt Kelly and Addie waiting for her appointment. While we waited, Addison got to choose what hair style she wanted. I tried to talk her into the Pop Princess, but she wanted the one that looked like a little bun. I know she only wanted it because it came with a little tiara!

Here she is after getting her hair, nails and make-up done. The "Fairy Godmother in Training" did a great job with her. Addison even spoke to her a couple of times. Addison is pretty shy and doesn't speak to many people, especially people she doesn't know.

Here is the little princess all made up getting her picture taken. What you can't see in this picture is that she had her tennis shoes on! She reminded me of Runaway Bride! We had some great girl time thanks to Aunt Kelly!

Then it was time to meet the boys/pirates!

Here is Jackson aka Enrique Swordcutter. They were given a pirate name, a sword and pirate make-up. Doesn't he look awesome?!

Bryson aka Thomas Cannonshot! I could do without the bubba teeth, though! When Addison first saw him she said, "Uh, oh, you're going to have to go to the orthodontist!" She's so funny! Next we caught part of a parade (We were on our way back from the restroom, so I didn't have my camera!) and decided to ride Thunder Mountain. David, Drew, Bryson, Jackson and I rode. Nobody else want to. Again, brought back memories!

Here are the boys after the ride. Bryson and Jackson said they didn't like it, but they were having a bad attitude by this point. They were hot and tired. Our day was coming to an end and they weren't too happy when I said I wanted another picture! Again, they will thank me one day!

Me and Drew after Thunder Mountain. Our last stop for the day was the Hall of Presidents. Addie mistakenly thought I said Hall of Princesses, so she was pretty disappointed! She ended up falling asleep. I almost did, too.

We went back to the house and the kids swam while we got dinner ready. The pool was great entertainment as was the game room with pool table, fooseball, air hockey and video games. The house was a great place to spend the week!

My boys ended the day sleeping in the same bed. I just love it when they are sweet to each other.

That was our first day at Disney World. The next day we went to Epcot. More on that tomorrow!