Loving Life in Trubyville

Tea on Tuesdays...3/1/2011

2011-03-01T03:57:00.001-08:00

Can you believe it's MARCH?!?! Days are flying by!! Today's choice of drink is COFFEE...BLACK....WITH AN EXTRA SHOT!!! ;) Today is the first of many days of state assessments and that means freaked out teachers, panicked kiddos, stressed out administrators...and lots of COFFEE!! :)

I've just returned from a 5 mile jog. It was quite painful. :( I ran the Cowtown 1/2 marathon Sunday and it was NOT kind to my body! So I had to force myself out of bed today to get that lactic acid moving!! So sore!! I've been thinking a lot about motivation and why I do what I do...I found the perfect quote and posted it on my status. Check out FB! :) What's your motivation for working out??

My husband and I are trying to drop some pounds and get healthy(ier). He's lost about 10 pounds. I've lost 3. *Sigh...Isn't that the way it always is?? He is feeling good and looking good and is really motivated to eat healthy and that makes me happy and keeps me from going out and eating a cheeseburger! I'll keep you updated on his progress! (and maybe mine...) I've been thinking a lot lately about the things we eat and how to make better choices. Christi at Grey Umbrella always has great ideas for dinners and organic eating and such. Another friend of mine has a new blog that has been very eye opening and educational for me as well. Check out Summer's blog. You girls are my inspiration for better eating!!

Well, it's off to the shower for me. BUSY day ahead!! I hope you all have a wonderfully, terrific Tuesday!!

Tea on Tuesdays...

2011-02-15T03:55:00.000-08:00

Welcome to my blog this beautiful Tuesday morning! Today I am having hot chocolate. It's sugar free...I need to detox from yesterday! ;)

I'd tell you that today I'm a little under the weather and I'm still debating whether or not to take the morning off to sleep in. I just finished my morning jog so I'm wide awake but I'm thinking a shower then back to bed may be just what the doctor ordered! :)

I'd tell you that I'm longing for warm, summer days right now. I don't really mind the cold weather but the drastic change in temps from day to day is a pain! I'm ready for more days like this...

I hope you guys have a fantastic Tuesday. Be sure and visit Christi today!!

The wall...

2011-02-11T16:53:00.000-08:00

Here is the wall mid-paint...(Notice how much help I'm getting from the 2 men on the couch...)

And here is the finished product!! I am loving it! :)

Tea on Tuesdays...

2011-02-08T18:25:00.001-08:00

So glad you braved the cold to join for me for tea today...ok, tonight. And I do mean COLD!! Only in Lubbock can you have 50 degrees at noon, 32 degrees by 3 PM, and 10 degrees as I blog! :) The wind is howling at a mean 25 mph making it feel -11. Yes, -11. Snow is predicted throughout the night and I'm hoping for a late start tomorrow! Because of these wintery conditions, I'm having hot chocolate. With marshmallows. And you decide that sounds delightful so I pour you a cup as well. See our mugs below? This is a picture of one of my favorite spots in my kitchen.

I'd tell you that I'm working on "sprucing" up my house and I've spent the past 2 evenings painting a wall in my living room. You'd tell me it looks wonderful (maybe a little dark but you still love it) and that the fumes are still fresh. You'd tell me I should've cracked a window but understand that it's just TOO cold! :) I'll show the rest of my blog buddies my newly painted wall tomorrow!

I'd tell you that my knee is feeling much better (finally) and that I'm looking forward to my first workout in 5 days. 5 days! I usually take off 3 or 4 days after a marathon but this has been awful! :( I will admit that I've enjoyed "sleeping in" but I miss my workout friends!! I'd tell you that my workout friends mean the world to me. They motivate me from near and far! I'd tell you that I'm so excited to meet up with Kelly and Tiffany at the Dallas 1/2. I'm incredibly proud of both of them...finding time to train with little ones is NOT easy! Can't wait to see you guys!! (Neiman~you come too!!)

I'd tell you that Tate's teacher e-mailed me to remind me that I'd signed up to organize the Valentine party. Seriously?? You'd laugh because you know I'm so unorganized when it comes to things like that! I have no idea what I was thinking! Oh my...

I'd tell you that my parenting has certainly been tested lately. A strong willed 7 year old ( I have NO idea where he gets it!) combined with a stubborn 4 year old ( pretty sure that came from Will) will make for an interesting household! You'd say that my boys are precious and that you can't imagine them being "bad" for one minute. I'd laugh and tell you that you are crazy! I'd tell you that my patience is tested day in and day out and in the very same instant that I think I'm going crazy, they will make me laugh hysterically and remind me that they really aren't so bad!

See?? ;)

I'd tell you that ( I have no idea why this is in blue...) I've enjoyed our chat and that I look forward to getting to know each other better and better each week. After you are finished here, pop in with Christi . She has super woman powers when it comes to...everything, I think!! :)

Confessions...

2011-02-04T23:32:00.000-08:00

I've done this before... Here...So here are some more...

~I still hate the sound of my alarm...especially when it goes off before 5 AM...I could sleep til 10 daily...I love to sleep...the expression "sleep when you're dead" is so over-rated!! I LOVE sleep!!!!

~I yell. I do. I yell at my kids. I yell at my husband. I don't yell often...but I do it. :(

~I love happy hour. I love my friends that join me for happy hour. It makes me happy!

~I love wine. I know NOTHING about wine but I know I like it. I love cheap wine, expensive wine...any kind of wine!! :)

~My favorite job EVER was working at Baskin Robbins. I remember each and every person I worked with and would LOVE a reunion!! Kelly and Tiffany...let's do this!! :)

~I would probably go crazy (crazy IER) being a stay at home mom...but I'd like to try it...just to see... ;)

~I am addicted to Facebook...and blogs...I find it fascinating to get inside the lives of others....weird, I know...I'm not proud...just being honest... :)

~I remember things that most people wouldn't...I have a seizure disorder that has taken away much of my memory...but the things I remember about people and situations would amaze you...they amaze me...

That's all for today.... :) I have so many more confessions to make...another time... ;)

Tea on Tuesdays...

2011-02-01T09:39:00.001-08:00

Thanks for joining me today!! Today is a SNOW DAY!!! Yep! 7 degrees outside with 25 mph wind!! So, I don't have a lot of time to sit and chat...these 2 are keeping me busy!!

I'd tell you that I after this adventure outside, both boys are now in pjs and under the covers watching cartoons!

I'd tell you that our tummy's are full after having pancakes, bacon, hash browns, and eggs for breakfast...thank you Will!!

I'd tell you that I'm feeling lighthearted today, totally content, and full of joy.

I'd apologize for making our chat short today but the hubby is on his way home with hot chocolate and more wood for the fire and I need to get these breakfast dishes in the dishwasher...you know...to make room for the lunch ones!!

Have a wonderful week!!

**Don't forget to check out Grey Umbrella!! Her blog is superb!!

Tea on Tuesdays...

2011-01-25T14:19:00.000-08:00

I'm having coffee today...with a little splash of Bailey's....ok, a large slash!! Just a crazy week already.

I'd offer you water. That's all I have in my fridge.

I'd tell you that I've needed to go to the store for days now and still haven't.

I'd tell you that I woke up this morning to find my boys eating cotton candy for breakfast. Oh my. I'd tell you I quickly fixed them a sausage biscuit...then realized about 30 minutes ago that neither of my boys ate the biscuit.

I'd tell you that I haven't vacuumed or swept or mopped in days...weeks?? Nah, couldn't be...

I'd tell you that I slid face first into the street Monday during my morning job...I finished the run though...with blood pooling in my palm and my tights ripped on both knees...oh the joys of being graceful.

I'd tell you that I'm having to make some tough decisions regarding the identification and placement of children that I work with...and it's difficult...and I hate being the bearer of bad news to parents...

I'd tell you that my husband bought new sheets for us this week...then helped me rearrange a few wall hangings...then told me to go buy a "few" things to spruce up the house...LOVE him!!

I'd tell you that I'm contemplating a return to Facebook. I've taken about a month break and I'm missing lots of people on there! :)

I'd tell you that I'm looking forward to having tea with you over the next week and can't wait for your post!!

A secret...

2011-01-20T18:30:00.000-08:00

I have a secret. A few of my closest friends know this secret. I will now share it with the blog world....I LOVE going to the grocery store. AND...I HATE making a list of what I need at the grocery store. Happiness is walking up and down every aisle, gazing at all of the products, examining the ingredients, deciding whether or not to buy...I could spend hours at the grocery store. I could spend hundreds at the grocery store! :) My plan for my trip to the grocery store next week is to make a list. I'm making a list. I'm making a list of the necessities....I hope I don't accidentally leave the list at home...hmmm...I wouldn't dare!! ;)

Tea on Tuesdays...

2011-01-18T04:29:00.000-08:00

I am so glad you joined me for tea today. Peppermint tea is quickly becoming one of my favorites. I'd tell you that I'm giving up coffee. I'd tell you that I'm not sure for how long...

I'd tell you that I had no idea what I'd tell you until I listened to this song this morning. I hope you enjoy it. It's one of my favorites...

I'd tell you that I think Christi has really knocked one out of the park with this Tea on Tuesday idea. I'd tell you that I can't wait have tea over at your blogs today. Until next week...

Sweet!

2011-01-14T04:32:00.001-08:00

What happens when your sweet boys can't decide on just 1 flavor of icing??? You use all 3!! ;) Pretty? No. Tasty? Absolutely! (The cake is made with a Diet DP so it's technically "low fat"...right?? The icing, on the other hand, not so much!)

On another note, this ice cream is simply heaven. It's sweet, creamy, heavenly.

Needless to say, there has been no shortage of sweets in the Truby household this week. Oh well...veggies on the menu next week! :)

Tea on Tuesdays...

2011-01-11T09:17:00.000-08:00

Christi over at Grey Umbrella has come up with a wonderful idea!! Tea on Tuesdays is a chance to have tea together via our blogs! Feel free to join in the fun! I think it's an excellent way to share what's on your mind and in your heart.

I'd tell you that today is a coffee day for me. I'd like a tall, white chocolate, no fat, no whip. This drink is truly heaven in a cup. I'd tell you that I slept in today instead of going to the gym. My alarm went off at 4:20 AM but sleeping an extra 2 hours sounded so good. AND it was 8 degrees outside!! :)

I'd tell you that there are days, like today, when I love my job. I feel like I am being so productive, getting so much accomplished, helping others. Tomorrow could be a different day.

I'd tell you that I am excited about going on a tour of our local grocery store tonight with my running friends to learn about a new nutrition system that is being implemented. I'm looking forward to learning how to buy better food for my family.

I'd tell you that today is a good day. Enjoy!

Addicted...

2011-01-10T17:22:00.001-08:00

Do you have an addictive personality?? I am the first to admit that I most certainly do! As you will see, some addictions are better than others....

I love ice cream. I could eat it for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and in between. I like all flavors but am particularly drawn to anything chocolate. This addiction would be a VERY bad thing if not for my next addiction...

I love working out. I love running. I love spinning. I love Power class. I love boxing. I love it all. This has not always been the case. I used to hate it. But I love how working out has helped me lose 60 (and counting) pounds. So...I love working out.

I am addicted to the grocery store. Many people I know dread going but I could go everyday. Walking up and down each aisle and seeing all of the different products is fascinating to me. Weird, I know.

Shopping is truly therapeutic for me. This is not a good thing. I do not let myself shop often. I buy on impulse. I want it all....purses, shoes, hats, scarves, you name it! Needless to say, retail therapy is far and few between!

And finally...the worst addiction of all:

Please tell me I'm not the only one!! :( I swore I'd never get a Facebook. Then I did. I found myself spending way too much time looking into the lives of other people. There are some very good things about Facebook...re-connecting with old friends, making new ones, etc. However, I found myself knowing more about the happenings of others than what was occurring in my own home. So...a temporary hiatus is now taking place. It's not so bad. I'll live. :)

Christmas card pics...

2010-12-12T17:59:00.001-08:00

My boys were a little less than thrilled with my Christmas card idea this year...

...but they still look cute!

Marathon #3!

2010-11-18T17:07:00.000-08:00

My mom, my sister, and about 20 of my running friends just completed the San Antonio Rock N Roll Marathon and 1/2 Marathon last weekend. This was my 3rd marathon in one year and I was able to improve my time by 30 minutes!! We had a wonderful weekend of running and lots of fun on the Riverwalk!

Confessions....

2010-11-05T15:57:00.000-07:00

For your entertainment...

~I let Cash eat Cool Whip...out of the bowl...with his fingers

~I let Tate eat a donut for breakfast...3 out of 5 days this week

~I let Cash watch as many episodes of Ben 10 as he wanted...in a row...so I could take a nap

~I bought dinner for myself and Will...but forgot to get food for the boys

~I completely forgot about the Book Fair at Cash's school because we've already been to the one at Tate's school

~I told my 7 year old to be grow up...really??

~I hid a birthday invitation from Cash because Tate has a football game at the same time

Just call me "Mom of the Year"...

My little Jedi boys...

2010-10-31T17:34:00.000-07:00

Oh, the fun that Halloween brings!

Love...

2010-10-12T04:10:00.000-07:00

I'm not exactly sure how this can be comfortable...but they all look pretty peaceful to me. :)

Ist day pics...

2010-08-24T18:02:00.001-07:00

Can't believe my baby boys are now in 1st grade and Pre-K!! So big...yet still my little guys!

Tate and his locker (Still doing the long hair...sigh...)

Mrs. Bridges and Tate

These boys melt my heart.

My mom and Cash

My mom and the boys

Summer!!

2010-08-06T09:07:00.000-07:00

We have had such a wonderful summer! Most days were spent at the pool or relaxing at home in our jammies! :) The pictures below are from the Houston Downtown Aquarium. We spent several days in Houston for my grandmother's 90th birthday celebration (pics to come!).

Completed!!

2010-06-15T13:36:00.000-07:00

Marathon #2 is in the books! The Rock N Roll marathon in San Diego was a blast! The scenery was beautiful, the weather was (almost perfect) and I took 5 minutes off of my time. The only question is...when is marathon #3???

Waiting for the shuttle before the race

We did it!! :)

Nashville...Before and After

2010-05-10T19:25:00.000-07:00

I stayed at the Opryland Hotel in Nashville, TN and took these pictures one week before the devastating floods that have destroyed the city.

And these are the aftermath...

Marathon Update

2010-04-17T10:00:00.000-07:00

Today was our first of three 20 mile runs! We are doing an intermediate training program this time around and the mileage is a killer!! I feel so much stronger in my training this time and am really enjoying challenging myself each week. When I did the San Antonio marathon, it was all about proving to myself that I could just finish 26.2 miles. For San Diego, I know I can finish, but I really want to push myself to run harder and faster. BJ and Lesli have been so encouraging on our long runs and I have them to thank for challenging me to push myself when my legs want to quit! :) 7 weeks til San Diego!!!

I heart Bon Jovi!!

2010-04-14T04:25:00.000-07:00

Brooke and I have some pretty awesome husbands! They gave us tickets to see Bon Jovi in Dallas!! The concert was AMAZING!! This band is timeless! The first tape I ever owned was Bon Jovi! We had so much fun! Oh! I get to see him again in Nashville next week!!

They make my world go 'round...

2010-04-05T19:41:00.000-07:00

Oh, how I love these faces!!

I did it!!

2010-03-31T16:05:00.000-07:00

I realize this isn't an accomplishment for many...but I actually COOKED!! Those of you that know me, know I have a serious allergy to cooking. Oh wait, is that possible?? Ok, I just don't ever do it. It gives me serious anxiety!! But with the encouragement from Christi (Grey Umbrella), I am learning how to cook!!

Baked spaghetti with ground turkey!

Crock pot short ribs

Not the best pic...but sooo good!!

Baked chicken with mushroom and onions!

I think my husband was in shock!! :)

Sweet Dreams...

2010-03-05T17:45:00.000-08:00

Sunny San Diego!

2010-01-31T15:14:00.000-08:00

If you look to your left, you will see I have added a new ticker. :) BJ, Lesli, and I have decided to run another marathon! So...San Diego, here we come!! The race is June 6th and our 18 week training schedule starts Monday!

Cooking...

2010-01-19T15:29:00.000-08:00

Don't let the title mislead you! :) I should've titled it "lack of" cooking! Let me be honest...cooking scares me. Seriously. It's not that I'm afraid what I make won't turn out well. It's the thought of all of the ingredients and having the oven on and/or the stove on with multiple pots and pans that really gives me anxiety. I do not multi-task well. Actually, I do not multi-task. At all. It's a sad, sad story. Luckily, I have Will. He loves to cook. He's good at it. Really good at it. So...I don't cook. BUT that is going to change. Sometime. Hopefully soon. I have EVERY good intention to make a meal twice a week next week. Notice how I said next week. :) No, really. I already have the recipes in mind (thank you Christi!) and I've made up my mind to just do it! And so I'm blogging about it so my blogging buddies will keep me accountable!!

This is my oven/stove. I do love the look of it...love to clean it...going to learn to love to cook with it!! :)

Awards

2010-01-12T18:52:00.000-08:00

If you have never visited Grey Umbrella, you must go there now! My friend Christi (many of you may know her as Mrs. Rauth) is simply amazing! This girl can do it ALL!! She has awarded me the following:

The rules for Beautiful Blogger are:

1) thank the person who gave you the award (Thanks Christi!)

2) paste the award on your blog

3) link the person who nominated you for the award

4) tell 7 interesting things about yourself (below)

5) nominate others for this award

7 interesting (semi) things about me...

*I can touch my nose with my tongue

*I married my first real date :)

*I have Partial Complex Seizure Disorder

*My first car was a stick shift

*If I could only eat one food for the rest of my life, I would pick ice cream

*I've completed a marathon

*I can fall asleep anywhere, at any time (scary!)

The Sugar Doll Award requires revealing 10 MORE things about myself...GEEZ!

*I'm a speed reader...I can finish any size book in one sitting

*I have NO sense of direction.

*I pushed a total of 5 times in the delivery of my 2 boys

*On the subject of giving birth...mine were painless, the easiest thing I've ever done...but I will cry if I get a paper cut :)

*I'm the most stubborn person I know (and I've passed it on to my childen...not good!)

*I cry at commercials

*I adore White Chocolate Mocha no fat, no whip from Starbucks

*Criminal Minds is my favorite show and I'm pretty sure I could diagnose a sociopath...Ha! :)

*I'm addicted to blog stalking, texting, facebook, and buying anything COACH.

*If a good song is on, I will continue driving past my destination until the song is over.

I'm passing these awards along to some fellow blogger friends who I think will have fun doing this!! :)

Janet and Justin

~ The Thompson Tales ~

Kristi's Cuties

Making McDowell Memories

Just Jen...

The Stanford Family

Smarty Pants

A book review...

2009-12-30T08:37:00.000-08:00

I just finished reading The Traveler's Gift by Andy Andrews. If you are needing any sort of motivation or inspiration in your personal and/or professional life, this is the book for you. The main character receives 7 decisions or affirmations through a series of dreams. The people he encounters are important characters in history and themselves facing great strife and/or having to make major decisions in life.

Here are some of my favorite lessons learned from the book:

*Instead of asking 'why me', ask 'why NOT me'

*My past can never be changed but I can change the future by changing my actions TODAY

*I choose now. Many people are waiting for God but I realize that sometimes God is waiting for ME!

*I will awaken each morning with an excitement about the new day

*Today I will choose to be happy

*Have a forgiving spirit. I forgive myself and others, even if they don't ask for it

*I am not most people. I compare myself to my potential. I am not average

If you've read this book, I'd love to hear your opinion on it and if you choose to read this book, let me know what you think!

Paper Angels

2009-12-24T11:38:00.000-08:00

As I was getting ready this morning and half watching/listening to CMT, this song came on by Jimmy Wayne. It's called Paper Angels. You can google it and listen to the song and I'm pasting a copy of the words here. The song is such a tear-jerker and the words are so, so true. It is a sad song but I think it also has a message of hope and a reminder that every little bit we can do to help someone less fortunate is not "little" to them. As I try and teach my boys the true meaning behind the Christmas season, songs like this remind me how truly blessed I am.

Paper Angels by Jimmy Wayne

After every day-after-Thanksgiving sale the malls just ain't complete
Without a bunch of decorations and a paper angel tree
There's artificial smiles on artificial tree limbs
Saying what she'd love to have and what to buy for him

Well i hope Maggie likes her new winter clothes and her buggy with a baby doll
And maybe Tom'll smile with his new nike shoes when he shoots that basketball
I can't help but wishing that i could do more
But not just while I'm shopping in the department store

[Chorus:]
Paper angels you're in my thoughts and prayers
No matter where you are right now remember God's right there
He's asking all of us to help take care
Of his paper angels everywhere

Going through the mail almost every afternoon i see a Mom and Dad's
Worst dream
There on the back of a money-saving ad to get my carpet cleaned
Height, weight, hair, eyes, date missing, and DOB
A child's name, a picture, and the words 'have you seen me?'

[Chorus:]
Paper angels you're in my thoughts and prayers
No matter where you are right now remember God's right there
He's asking all of us to help take care
Of his paper angels everywhere

His documented bruises fill a folder file
She's a second grade self-portrait drawn without a smile
And every town is littered with this kind of debris
We've got to stop this madness and it's up to you and me

[Chorus:]
Paper angels you're in my thoughts and prayers
No matter where you are right now remember God's right there
He's asking all of us to help take care
Of his paper angels everywhere

Paper angels everywhere

Elf on the Shelf

2009-12-17T08:34:00.000-08:00

The Truby family has a new member for the Christmas season! Meet Fuzz Fuzz! I know it is hard to believe that my precious, near perfect boys can sometimes behave...well, not precious and near perfect, so I thought this story of the Elf on the Shelf would be perfect for them! Tate has really bought into the whole idea and we have seen him use a softer voice with Cash and try to be more patient. Tate jumps out of bed each morning to see where Fuzz Fuzz has landed after his night spent reporting the day's events to Santa. Cash is pretty excited about Fuzz Fuzz as well. We are very excited to begin this new tradition with our boys. Do any of you have a special "Elf" family member and if so, how is it working??

Brothers

2009-12-09T19:14:00.000-08:00

A picture is worth a thousand words...

Giving...Project :: Serve

2009-11-24T08:38:00.001-08:00

I hear people say that there is no such thing as a coincidence and that everything that happens has some sort of reasoning or purpose behind it....

I saw this quote the other day "Blessed are those that can give without remembering and receive without forgetting" and it has been on my mind ever since. I'm often overwhelmed at how blessed and lucky I am to have all that I have. It just amazes me how much I truly have to be thankful for. This morning I was reading blogs and this is what I found on my new friend Christi's blog...http://www.greyumbrella.com/2009/11/project-serve.html Coincidence??

I think this is such a simple yet HUGE way to do something for someone else this holiday season. I WILL SERVE...will you?? :)

Marathon Madness

2009-11-19T09:29:00.000-08:00

We did it!! We survived the 2009 San Antonio Rock N Roll marathon!! It is surreal to think about how, for 18 weeks, our lives revolved around training for this marathon and now it's over! There were over 25,000 people running that day and the course was very cool. It was a very neat experience and of course, one that I will have to participate in again...VEGAS 2010!! Who's in??

Here are some of my favorite running partners...BJ, me, Traci, Carol, Keri, Lesli, and Jana

Jana and me at 5 AM the morning of the race.

Kelly and me (and Bebe T) after the race. Kelly- you are amazing to complete the half while preggo! :) I'm so proud of you!

Our running group (minus Lesli) after the race.

My mom and me. She was our driver and cheerleader!

All showered up and ready to celebrate our accomplishments!

Before and After...

2009-11-03T04:52:00.000-08:00

This is for you Kelly...

I can't believe I'm doing this. However, I am hoping if I show the world (the 5 people that read this) this picture, then I will never go back to the "before". The first picture is of me from August 2008. I was at my heaviest weight, except for when I was pregnant. I won't tell you exact numbers but let's just say it wasn't pretty. I wasn't happy. I was fat. I made a decision that August to get in shape, get healthy, and get happy. So my journey began...

And here I am now. 55 pounds lighter. What a difference a year's worth of running and eating right can make! I am a new person. A healthy person. A happy person. And I will NEVER go back to the "before"!!

One of those weeks...

2009-10-31T12:51:00.001-07:00

You ever have one of those weeks that you just wish you could erase?? One of those weeks when it seems that everything you thought you knew was completely wrong?? One of those weeks when no matter how hard you try to see the good in people, you are disappointed?? One of those weeks when it would be so much easier to hide under the covers rather than face the challenges of each day??

I guess you could say I had one of those weeks! However, when it comes down to it, the evils of the world are always going to be there and it's how we deal with it that really matters. And I am so thankful for my wonderful friends who are always there to make me smile! :) So...here's some pics of some of my fabulous friends!

And of course...my best friend.

Headed out to the East Coast...

2009-10-19T16:50:00.001-07:00

Will and I were given the opportunity to attend a conference in Hartford, Connecticut this past week. We had such a great time (and learned a little, as well!) and I wanted to share our pictures. We drove into New York City for one day and I loved every second of it. We will definitely be going back for a real vacation one day!

Almost here...

2009-10-07T15:33:00.000-07:00

So the marathon is almost here...and the thought of it makes me want to throw up. Nice, huh? I have no pictures to share or anything very interesting to say so you may want to quit reading at this point. :) Tomorrow is our 19 mile run which is terrifying to me, followed by a 20 mile run in 2 weeks and then then the marathon is pretty much here!! Scared, terrified, queasy, sick, and I guess a little excited would about sum up my feelings!! Seriously, I can't believe the time is almost here!! Ok, that helps to get out my true feelings. I promise to post nice, happy things from now on....

Cooper vs Cancer

2009-10-04T09:20:00.000-07:00

The 2009 Race for the Cure was a huge success!! The Komen Lubbock area division raised over $400,000!! To help do our part to raise money and awareness, Cooper faculty and staff, students, and alumni formed Team Cooper vs Cancer for the second year in a row! The goal this year was to have 200 members and raise $3000. We ended up with 191 members and raised $5117.39 with the help of donations!! Can't wait til next year!! I love being team captain!! :)

Moments like this...

2009-09-21T04:23:00.000-07:00

It's moments like this that I wish I could bottle up and save forever.

Tate is 6!!

2009-09-13T18:00:00.000-07:00

The past 6 years have flown by! I remember so clearly the day I gave birth to this 9lb baby and wondering what on Earth we were going to do with him! It has been an adventure ever since. He certainly keeps us on our toes!

Tate jumping on our new trampoline.

Never one to like attention, this is his face that says "Get on with it!"

Cash had to get in on the action.

6 candles on his Batman cake!

Happy 6th Birthday Tater Bug!!

Cash is 3!!

2009-09-09T04:27:00.000-07:00

My sweet little baby Cash turned 3 on Tuesday!! It is so hard to believe that 3 years ago, I gave birth to this 7 lb 8 oz baby who spent 8 days in NICU because he wouldn't eat! Oh how things have changed! He was so excited about turning 3 and had such a great day!! Happy Birthday my big boy!

Cash and FreMa

Tate and Cash playing with Shannon

Cash and Will

Trying out his new present!

Thank you Shannon for your handy skills!!

Trying out the icing!

Cash wanted a Max and Ruby cake...

And a Backyardigan party!

Sweet brothers. They could not be more different but they love each other so much!

The big 3 year old!

Growing up...

2009-08-26T18:30:00.001-07:00

Tate started Kindergarten and he could not have been more excited. He has an amazing teacher, Miss Hill, and already has the big job title of "Animal Helper" this week! He is growing up so fast!

Miss Hill and Tate

Tate wasn't real sure why so many family members came with him to school on the first day! Here he is with Nana and Papa!

And here is the big boy himself!

Marathon Training Update...

2009-07-28T11:54:00.000-07:00

Well, the training has officially started!! This is week 3 of marathon training and so far, so good. I'm looking forward to our first long run over 13 miles since that is the longest distance any of us have ever gone. I am loving every minute of the training so far...even though the thought of running for 5 hours makes my stomach turn. 5 hours is my estimated finish time. We shall see! Anyway, I love thinking about how this time last summer I was 40 pounds heavier and couldn't run 1/2 a mile. This past year of running has been incredible. My running buddies from near and far have given me encouragement and inspiration to keep on going! Training for a marathon is not something I would've EVER done if it hadn't been for these guys!! Here is a look back at the past year of running!

Too Hot To Handle!!

2009-07-21T08:18:00.000-07:00

Kelly and I ran in the Too Hot to Handle 15k at White Rock last weekend. The weather could not have been better! Kelly and I finished in the top 50 out of 150 girls in our age group!
We had just "carbed up" at a wonderful Italian restaurant so we are feeling really happy! :)

Before the race... After the race...

After we ran, we went to the pool... And ate......

And continued the post-race festivities with a night on the town!!

Thank you James and Kelly for letting me come visit!! I had such a great time!! Now...schedule your trip to the LBK!! :)

Vacation cont...

2009-07-08T05:41:00.001-07:00

These are pictures from the Rainforest Cafe (except for the first one). Tate talks about this place all the time. He loves to eat here. He loves to watch the animals and thinks the "thunderstorm" is so cool. Cash had a lot of fun here, too. As you can tell by Tate's face, his favorite part was dessert! :)

The Great Wolf Lodge...

2009-07-08T05:21:00.000-07:00

Because I can NOT figure out how to post more than 5 pictures at a time (Tiffany, I tried to do what you wrote about on your blog and I'm still stuck!) this will be a multi-post blog about our vacation. First of all, here are some pictures from the Great Wolf Lodge. This place is amazing. I highly recommend you take a vacation there...with OR without kids!! We (Will, Tate, Cash, my mom, and me) stayed in the Wolf Den which has a special area for the kids equipped with bunk beds and their own TV. The room also has a separate bed and fold out couch. It was perfect for us. We had such a great time! The indoor/outdoor water park provided more than enough entertainment for everyone. The slides and wave pool kept Will and Tate entertained for hours and the 2 feet deep pool was perfect for Cash. The arcade was so much fun as well as the snack bar, Bear Cub Cafe, other eateries, and the many other things that this place had to offer. I can not say enough good things about our experience here. We will definitely be going back!!

Meet Cash...

2009-07-02T17:46:00.001-07:00

Oh how I love this boy! Cash goes with the flow. Whatever is happening is just fine with him. He loves to snuggle and cuddle and give lots of hugs and kisses. He can pout like no other! I'm talking arms folded across the chest, lip out pout. It's impossible not to laugh. Cash makes up jokes and loves to pretend to be a "boxing man". He is certainly a little clown. He is my little homebody. Nothing makes him happier than to be at home with us. He is funny and silly and thinks Tate hung the moon. Even though I had to beg, beg, beg for a second baby, I think everyone will agree that Cash certainly added more than we could've ever imagined to our family. :)

Meet Tate...

2009-06-30T18:05:00.000-07:00

There are so many words to describe this little man. He is wise beyond his years. He is smart and curious and wants to have an answer for why things are the way they are. Poor thing got his momma's Type A personality! He is in charge and the boss and needs to know the plan and time and schedule for what is happening in his world now. He is passionate and caring and has an endless amount of energy. He questions and argues and refuses to take "because I said so" for an answer. He challenges me in so many ways! :) He is an amazing big brother and fits the "oldest child" mold to a capital T! These past 5 1/2 years have flown by before my eyes and it saddens me and excites me to know just how quickly he is growing up. He will always be my Taterbug.

Highs and Lows

2009-06-15T10:47:00.000-07:00

This is for Kelly...

Highs and Lows of summer...

Highs

*No school, no work, no commitments

*Spending lazy days at the pool with my boys

*Not having to put make up on all day (unless I'm going somewhere...and even then maybe not!)

*Going to Vegas and Dallas for vacation

*Going back to Dallas to run with Kelly

*Happy hours on the patio with friends

*July=marathon training begins!

Lows

~Having to run before 6 AM or after 7 PM cause it's just too stinking hot!

~Knowing that these days of summer always pass way too fast

So many more highs than lows...I love summer!! :)

2009 Lunar Lope

2009-06-08T08:37:00.000-07:00

BJ, Jana, and I headed up to the Tech Rec last night at 10 PM for the Lunar Lope 5K. It was a lot of fun and I came in at 25 minutes, 30 seconds which is a personal best for me! We had a great time!

School's OUT!!

2009-05-31T14:32:00.000-07:00

Tate's first year of school has come to an end! Wow, what a year! We were so lucky to have such awesome, amazing teachers like Mrs. Spears and Ms. Hudgens. They truly loved my baby like one of their own. Tate learned so much this year and can't wait for next year!

Tate and Mrs. Spears

Tate and Ms. Hudgens

And now we are sooo ready for summer! We are going to have so much fun! These boys make my world go round! :)

Our latest race...

2009-05-16T09:10:00.001-07:00

Kelly drove all the way from Plano to run in the Hugh Haynes Memorial 11 mile run! It was an 11 mile race at Ransom Canyon. Oh what fun!! :) BJ and Lesli placed in their age division which is why they have medals and we don't...maybe next time, Kelly! :)

We all went to my dad's house to anxiously await the Cooper bond election results...it passed!

It was a great weekend! Thanks for coming to L-town Kel!

Up Next...

2009-04-29T19:38:00.000-07:00

On November 15th, I will be running 26.2 miles in the San Antonio marathon! :) Well, hopefully running....maybe a couple of walking water breaks... I already registered so I can't back out no matter how nauseous I get thinking about it. Lesli Spears and BJ are going to run in it as well so we will be training together this summer. Jana and Kami are going to run in the 1/2 and Kelly is still undecided... :) ROAD TRIP!! Anyone else want to join??

Easter...

2009-04-15T19:26:00.000-07:00

No family picture...Tate was out of his Sunday clothes in 10 seconds after we got home...this is what I was able to capture!

Doesn't he just look sooo interested?? Ha!

Showing off his new bunny ears!

Looking for eggs...

My baby. :)

The Big D!

2009-04-06T18:13:00.000-07:00

Check out the ticker!!! I can't believe this weekend is actually over! What am I going to blog about? Ha! That is actually a whole separate post soon to come!! Back to business...WE DID IT!! We finished the race in 2 hours 9 minutes which is way faster than we hoped for! It was such a great weekend!! Thanks Kelly for taking such good care of us! I never would have done this if you hadn't put the thought in my mind!! Your friends are so fun and I'm thankful I got to meet them!

T-Ball

2009-03-30T17:20:00.000-07:00

T-Ball season is here. Hip, hip, hooray...wait a minute. While I am excited that Tate is learning a new sport, I am not sure how I feel about 2 and 3 games a week plus practice. Did I mention he is in the middle of soccer season as well?? It has never and will never be our mission to have our children busy every night of the week. Especially at the age of 5, I feel this is ridiculous. However, I am quickly learning that not everyone feels the same as me. Lots of moms don't mind rushing from practice to practice, game to game, fast food in the car for dinner, screaming coaches and crazy parents, etc. And good for them. But I am not one of them. So, I will continue to enjoy watching Tate learn and play, while all the while knowing that when I start to care about the sport more than him, we are done. :)

10 miles and counting!

2009-03-18T13:29:00.000-07:00

We have finally completed 10 miles! The half marathon is coming up quick!! We will run 10 miles again this coming weekend and then call it good until the race on April 5th! We can't wait to meet up with our Dallas friends and have a fantastic weekend running in the Big D!! This is what we looked like after 10 miles...scary to think what it will be after 13!

Wedding Weekend

2009-03-18T13:17:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we went to Houston to celebrate Philip and Kathleen's wedding. It was the nicest rehearsal dinner, wedding, and reception we have ever been to! We had such a great time!!

Koley, Philip, me

Philip and his 2 best men, Koley and Davis.

Meg Curth, me, Kathleen and Philip

Me, Eric, Will and Rita McDaniel

7 Years!!

2009-03-10T16:35:00.000-07:00

Yesterday marked our 7th wedding anniversary!! What an amazing 7 years! I am continuously amazed at how lucky and truly blessed I am to have such a great life! I tried my best to find wedding photos but didn't have time to scan any so I posted what I have! :)

Here are 2 of my bridesmaids, Megan and Brandi, along with my sweet junior bridesmaids, Kayla and Kelsey. I will always treasure the memory of having the Vines twins in my wedding. I began babysitting these girls when they were 3 months old! They both grew in to such beautiful, caring people. I am sure many of you know that Kelsey was tragically taken from this earth in September. Having them be a part of our wedding will always be a very special thing to us.

Here are all of my bridesmaids...Shannon, Allyson, Megan, BJ, and Brandi!

You know you have been married a long time when you get home and you are super excited about your surprise gift.....freshly planted flower beds!! We had the front done a few weeks ago but Will surprised me by having the back done as well! Thank you Designscapes!! Ryan and Tanner and their crew are very talented and extremely hard workers!!

Here is Designscapes website: http://lubbockdesignscapes.com/

It was designed by the talented Summer Shepherd! (http://chocolateboxdesigns.com/)

Early morning run!

2009-03-07T10:40:00.000-08:00

We decided to do our 9 mile run at 7 this morning. The weather was simply perfect!! It's a little scary to say, but I think our bodies are actually used to the mileage because the run was very pleasant! We talked the first 6 miles before turning on our music! :) Anyway, I am sure some of you are sick of my running updates, so don't worry, less than a month til the race! :) Kelly, thanks for pushing us to train for a half marathon!! It's been amazing!

8 Miles...Again

2009-03-01T16:16:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry I have nothing more exciting to post about than our Sunday runs! Today we ran 8 miles again but this time we improved our time to an average of 10 minutes a mile. One exciting, or maybe I should say scary, thing did happen...Jana passed out!! She's going to kill me for writing this!! After our run was over, she just passed out! She was only out for a few seconds but it scared us to death!! I think she was probably dehydrated but she is feeling much better. Drink those liquids, Jana!! We will run 9 miles next weekend so check back for details on that...and maybe I'll actually have something more exciting to post about during the week!

8 miles

2009-02-22T14:02:00.000-08:00

Today I was able to update my ticker! We (Jana, Kami, and I) ran 8 miles today which is the most we have run since the Turkey Trot. The weather was pretty nice except for the wind. We averaged a 10 minute 40 second mile, which was pretty good, considering the wind was pretty strong. We'd like to average a 10 minute mile on the day of the half marathon. It's very exciting to think that the half marathon is only a little over a month away!!

Valentine's Day in Vegas

2009-02-15T18:22:00.000-08:00

I am such a lucky gal! I met Will is Vegas Friday night. He picked me up from the airport and had a bottle of champagne waiting in the car. When we got to our room at the Bellagio, there were flowers waiting along with new Coach shoes! ;) We went to a wonderful dinner and gambled a little before calling it a night. The next day we kept ourselves busy by shopping and then had a couples massage (which Will LOVED, especially the hot stone part) and then I got a pedicure. We went to Le Reve (a Cirque show) and then dinner at the Wynn. It was a wonderful weekend! I am so very lucky to have such a thoughtful hubby!

Here are my beautiful flowers and new shoes that Will had waiting for me in our room!

We had the best seats for the show!

Tate's Week

2009-02-07T14:36:00.000-08:00

This was an exciting/interesting week for Tate. I would just use "exciting" to describe his week but I'm not sure getting Strep throat and/or experiencing his first taste of hard core bullying (which, by the way, rises a fire in this mommy like nothing else I've ever experienced!) should be described as "exciting". However, his class went to the Stephen Fite concert and he had his first basketball game so those can both be described as exciting! Here are some pics from my sweet boy's week.

Tate and his best bud Carson waiting for the concert

Mommy and Tate

Tate #8- So cute!!

Getting ready for jump ball. Looks like a pro in the making...or not!

How do I wash this laundry??

Love

2009-01-27T16:52:00.001-08:00

Imagine the melted hearts around here when Tate came into the living room with this....

He did this all by himself.

Priceless.

3M Half Marathon Relay

2009-01-26T16:59:00.000-08:00

BJ and I started out on our Austin road trip bright and early Saturday morning. We had no one to take our picture so we took one of ourselves!

We stopped in Menard to have lunch with BJ's parents.

This is at 5:30 AM on Sunday, Race Day! The desk clerk thought we were nuts! :) We had to be at the race at 6:15! BJ was bussed to the half way point while I waited with about 4000 people at the starting line. Crazy!

We made it back to the hotel! I ran the first 6.4 miles in 1 hour 2 minutes and BJ ran the last 6.7 miles in 1 hour flat! We came in 13th place out of 76 other relay teams! Go Red Raider Runners! :)

And this is us at 6:00 PM Sunday after we drove home.

Yes, we are nuts for driving to Austin and back in 2 days to run in a race. And dorky for taking all of these pictures! :) But we had such a great time and the race was such an awesome experience. It really gave me the motivation I need to keep training for the Big D half marathon in April.

THE BIG 3-0!!

2009-01-22T12:20:00.000-08:00

No, I am not turning 30. BUT, I have now officially lost 30 pounds. :) I wanted to wait until the scales showed the same weight for a good week before I bragged on myself. ;) I try not to be obsessed with the scales but let's face it, it can be addicting. I do focus a lot on how I feel and how my clothes fit, but I can't help but notice the numbers too...especially now that they are getting lower and lower. This running has been the best thing I have ever done and I feel so good! August 4th was the day I decided to start working out again and I have been so motivated and determined ever since! I have had such great support and encouragement from my friends and family and I vow to continue on!! Stay tuned for the big 4-0! :)

Loop the Lake race

2009-01-10T11:21:00.000-08:00

BJ and I ran in the 5 mile "Loop the Lake" race this morning. It was very chilly and very windy on one side of the lake (the part that was uphill, of course!) but the sun was warm on the other side. BJ finished in 45 minutes and I finished in 48 minutes. In 2 weeks we are running a 13 mile relay race in Austin! :)

This was taken after right after we got home. :) I was still cold!

2009

2009-01-01T20:31:00.000-08:00

As I type, I am trying to come up with some fabulous 2009 resolutions. Until then, I'll just post some pics from the New Year's Eve party we had at our house! :)

Ashley (Rusty's wife) and me

Russ, Shane, and Will

Randi Bobo and me

my mom and her boyfriend Tracy

my dad and step-mom Jo Ellen

We all had such a great time. You know you have a rockin' party when your parents are there and actually stay til after midnight! :) Happy 2009!

Running...

2008-12-29T04:34:00.000-08:00

It is not really the time that my post says it is. It is actually 6:35 AM. After taking an entire week off from working out, I started running again on Friday, and then on Sunday, and I went to spin at 5 this morning. I am back on the wagon!! The half marathon is April 5th so there is NO time to waste! :) There is a 5 mile race on January 10th that my running partners (even though BJ is the only one that has committed to it!) and I will be running in and then BJ and I are headed to Austin the weekend of January 25th to run in a half marathon relay! I will run the first 6.4 miles and she will finish the last 6.7 miles. Come on Kelly, grab a friend and do it with us!! :) So, there is my month of January running plans. Exciting, I know!

Christmas Flash

2008-12-26T15:36:00.001-08:00

Seriously? It's already over?? The decorations start appearing in stores in October, people start buying for it even before that, and then it is over and done with in a flash! It's just crazy to me! Tate was seriously sad today when he realized that he had no more presents to open. All the hype, all the food, all the everything...and then NOTHING! Very hard to explain to a 5 year old. Kind of hard to understand when you are 28! :)

The Polar Express

2008-12-23T06:04:00.000-08:00

Yes, I am a little behind in my blogging! Here are some pictures from our trip to the North Pole via The Polar Express. I must say my children were not exactly entertained. Cash refused to believe we were actually on a train and Tate was just plain bored until the elves arrived. Then Tate explained to Will that the Santa we saw was just the "working Santa"...you know, the one who dresses up like Santa but isn't the real thing. Sheesh!! This kid is 5! Oh well, just as practical and rational as his Dad!

Here is Tate telling the train a joke!

Cash doesn't look too excited, huh??

Cash peeking over from behind me. Both boys had to sit with Will! :(

Doesn't this look just say it all???

Toys 4 Tots Race

2008-12-13T09:47:00.000-08:00

This one was a rough one! Today's race was the Toys 4 Tots race at Mae Simmons Park and it was 4 miles. For those of you who ran cross country there in high school, you know about the "killer hill" on this course. We had to run it twice!! It is really more like a mountain than a hill! :) Definitely a good cause but not exactly a fun race! BJ, who I don't think ever gets tired, finished in 38 minutes. Jana finished in 41 mins and I finished in 42 mins. Oh, and here's a shout out to my father-in-law who I know was cheering us on from his recliner! Hi John!! :)

Moments

2008-12-06T10:10:00.001-08:00

Do you ever have those moments when you look over at what you love the most in the world and realize just how lucky you truly are?? And then laugh cause it doesn't matter how young or how old you are, you can fall asleep just about anywhere?? :)

Christmas decorating...

2008-11-30T18:38:00.000-08:00

What did I do over my Thanksgiving break?? Besides punish my body by running over 7 miles on Thursday??? Well, on Friday morning I shopped from 4:30 AM to 4:30 PM. And then I decorated with all of my fabulous purchases! If you notice something odd about our stockings...we decided this year that we would each get to pick out our own stocking. Will found the biggest one he could, of course, and thinks it has to be completely filled. Ha! Tate is still looking for the coolest Batman stocking and Cash wants a dinosaur one. If anyone sees one, call me immediately!!

Mission Accomplished!

2008-11-27T15:38:00.000-08:00

We did it! The Turkey Trot came and went in approx. 1 hour 20 minutes for me! :) BJ and Jana finished in approx. 1 hour 14 minutes and Kami finished in approx. 1 hour 15 minutes. Thanks Dad and Jo Ellen for coming out to cheer us on!! I am very proud of my friends and of myself for committing to this and for completing yet another running goal!

About to leave for the race!

About to start the race!

Finished and still smiling!

Turkey Trot Terror!

2008-11-24T08:26:00.001-08:00

I'm a little nervous. Ok, a lot nervous. This Thursday is the Turkey Trot. BJ, Jana, Kami and I have signed up for the 12 K (that's 7.456 miles)! It is at Makenzie Park starting at 9 AM. The great thing is that I will be able to eat all the pumpkin pie I want without feeling guilty! :) However, my stomach turns even thinking about running that far right now! I am so nervous!! I need some good vibes flowing my way! So blogger friends, help me out! Send me those positive thoughts! PLEASE!!! :)

My 8...

2008-11-18T14:19:00.000-08:00

Thanks for the tag, Janet! It kept me busy at work! Ha!

Eight TV shows that I watch:
1. The Mentalist
2. Numbers
3. CSI: The original
4. Lipstick Jungle (which is getting canceled and I’m so bummed!)
5. Two and a Half Men
6. Biggest Loser
7. Criminal Minds
8. Law and Order SVU

Eight Favorite Restaurants:
1. Carino’s
2. Abuelos
3. PF Chang’s
4. Papdeaux
5. Cheesecake Factory
6. The Nine (in Vegas..sooo good!)
7. Café J
8. Las Brisas

Eight Things that happened this weekend:
1. Bought the cutest fireplace screen
2. Went to a bachelorette party
3. Watched the Cowboys actually win!
4. Went to a jewelry party
5. Laundry
6. Ran 6.5 miles
7. Soccer party for Tate
8. Slept til 9:30!! (yes, that is considered late!)

Eight Things I look forward to:
1. Turkey Trot (7.4 miles!)
2. Watching Will cook Thanksgiving dinner
3. Aaron and Jeni’s rehearsal dinner
4. Aaron and Jeni’s wedding
5. Holiday Happening
6. Christmas shopping for my boys
7. Watching the Cowboys rise above all of their issues!
8. Losing 20 more pounds (20 down, 20 to go!)

Eight Things on My Wish list:
1. A relaxing Christmas break
2. A new Coach purse
3. A new Coach anything!
4. The next 3 books after Twilight
5. New running clothes
6. One day to sleep as late as I possibly can
7. Gift cards to help continue decorating my house
8. For all of my family and friends to have a happy holiday!!

I tag...Jennifer, Hollie, and Kristi!!

Sunday Run #3

2008-11-16T13:53:00.000-08:00

Today was awesome!! The weather was perfect! We (Jana, Kami, and I) ran for 70 minutes and ran 6.5 miles!! My body is aching right now but during the run, I felt great! This gives me such confidence in knowing that I will be able to complete the Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving, which is 7.2 miles!! Anyone else want to join?? :)

Veterans Day Race

2008-11-09T08:35:00.000-08:00

BJ and I ran in the Veterans Day race this morning. It was the same course as the Road Race so that was nice. I kept up with BJ the first 2 miles but couldn't hang after that! She finished in 27 mins 30 sec and I finished in 28 mins 30 sec. It was 2 1/2 minutes faster than the Road Race so I was pumped! I also got interviewed by the Techsan (TTU paper) and the girl asked what my major was so that made me feel good!! I must look young when I'm sweaty and out of breath! Ha! No Sunday Run for me today. :)

Thanks Fabulous K!!

2008-11-07T04:13:00.000-08:00

Isn't my new blog design awesome?? I just love it! Fabulous K did such a great job!! Thanks so much!

Favorite Aunt!

2008-11-03T17:07:00.000-08:00

My sister, Shannon, is the boys favorite aunt!! Ok, she's their only aunt! Ha! Seriously though, these two love her more than anything! They have a favorite uncle too... :)

Sunday Run #2

2008-11-02T18:54:00.001-08:00

Ok, today was not fun. I don't know if it was the hot sun or just one of those "off days" but I was huffing and puffing through this 60 minute run. We still made it 5 miles, which is a pretty good pace for us, but it was just exhausting. I wanted to stop several times and began to worry about actually running 13 miles in April!! It is totally a mind over matter thing for me. I can talk myself into OR out of anything! I'm hoping next Sunday will be better as we strive for 70 minutes! Yikes! I am need of some major pepping up from you runners out there!! The road to 13 miles seems so DAUNTING!!! :(

*On a happy note, my blog is being made 'fabulous' by Fabulous K herself so check back soon for a new look!!! I am so excited!

Halloween pics

2008-10-31T16:29:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween from Tate the Skeleton and Cash the Night time.

Black sweat suit + glow in the dark stars = Night time!! Cash had previously wanted to be carpet, so I think this is a huge improvement! I'm sure if I had a creative bone in my body that this could have been a really cute costume, however, I don't so it isn't! :) He's happy and Tate thinks he is the scariest skeleton around!

Sunday Runs

2008-10-26T16:33:00.001-07:00

Today was our first "Sunday Run". We (me and my training partners-Jana and Kami) have decided that we will go for long runs on Sundays. We did a 60 minute jog today. Yikes! It really wasn't too bad but if you think about the fact that we only went 5 miles and our goal is 13...wow!! So now my knees are killing me and I smell awful but I am proud of us for completing our first "Sunday Run!.

Announcement...

2008-10-15T19:47:00.000-07:00

I have decided to run in a 1/2 marathon!! Ok, it's not that exciting of an announcement for most people but it is for me and since it's my blog, I am announcing it!! :) I have had such a great experience with running (no, I never thought I'd say that) over the past 11 weeks that I have decided to become a "runner". Yes, a runner. With two 5K runs in my belt, I am moving on up! I have my dear friend Kelly to thank for this CRAZY idea! It is her idea to run in the 1/2 marathon in Dallas in April. So we will be "training" together through texts, emails, and blogs! Go Kelly! So I thought about it and realized that this was a goal that I could really set for myself and be proud of when I accomplish it! I have also solicited great advice from a fellow runner and blogger (Ashley Hlavaty, thanks!) and I am ready to embark upon this adventure. I have added a ticker to the header of my blog to track my progress. My ultimate goal is to run 13 miles and today I ran 4!! Wow...I have a lot of work to do by April. Wish me luck!! Oh yeah, I am currently begging BJ, Jana, and Kami to participate with me. We will see. Any other volunteers?

Red Raider Road Race 2008

2008-10-12T12:56:00.001-07:00

BJ, Jana, and I ran in the Red Raider Road Race on Saturday. I think you could say that I am officially hooked on running! We ran the 5K and BJ finished in 27 minutes, Jana in 30, and I finished in 31. I was pumped because my time was 4 minutes faster than last week! We had a great time! (Excuse my appearance...it was early! Of course Jana and BJ look cute at 7 AM!)

My Husband's Favorite Things...

2008-10-07T16:52:00.000-07:00

I was "tagged" by my friend Jennifer to do this post so here goes!

Will's Favorite Things...in no particular order!

Me!

Cash!

Tate!

The Cowboys!

Other things...Vegas, Vegas, and Vegas! I think this pretty much sums up my hubby!

*Now I tag Kelly, Kristi, and Hollie!

The Race!

2008-10-04T09:58:00.000-07:00

Today was the Race for the Cure! Our Cooper vs. Cancer team turned out to be such a success! We had 90 members and raised $2255!! If you remember in my previous post about this, my goal was 25 members and $1000 so we surpassed those goals quite easily! It took on a life of it's own! The high school got involved and it just turned out to be a really awesome event! There were a ton of people at the Civic Center this morning! My goal was to run the race (3.2 miles) in 40 minutes and I actually crossed the finish line at 35 minutes!! Kami finished in 31 minutes and Jana finished in 33. They have both been such amazing support for me over the past 9 weeks as we have worked up to running 3 miles. And now we are on to 5 miles!!

*As an addendum to my previous post...it's not that I don't like hugs AT ALL. I like hugs from friends who I haven't seen (Summer and Kelly, you girls are fine!)...it's just those lingering hugs that just last too long...hee hee!! You know what I mean!!

Ten Things Thursday...

2008-10-02T19:26:00.000-07:00

In honor of my dear friend Kelly...

Ten things I would only admit on this blog...

10. I blog stalk...people I know, people I don't know. I am fascinated by the lives of others. Sick, huh? Some blogs make me cry, some make me laugh, some make me exit out very quickly! :)

9. I am not a touchy person. There are really only 3 people in this world that I want to touch me: Will, Tate, and Cash. I just don't want to hug or touch or be hugged or touched. It doesn't mean I wasn't loved enough as a child, I promise! :)

8. After 9 weeks of getting up every morning at 4:45 AM to work out, I still HATE the sound of my alarm going off! I HATE it. I want to turn it off every morning and go back to sleep. I act like it's easy to get up and go...but I'm lying!

7. I have done everything wrong as a parent. Both of my boys slept on their bellies, they both sleep in our bed, they rarely go to bed when they are supposed to, if they want chips and queso from Taco Villa for dinner then they get it, Tate has a TV in his room (GASP!), and the list goes on and on. And guess what?? They are perfect...in my eyes! :)

6. I hated being a teacher. I didn't like one thing about it except for the days off. But I love, love, love being a diagnostician.

5. I don't vote.

4. I often smile and nod in agreement to people that I completely disagree with just so they will stop talking and leave me alone. Isn't that terrible?? Oh my!

3. I love watching TV with my husband. We are addicted to CSI, Lipstick Jungle, Two and a Half Men, The Mentalist, Big Brother, and Dexter. After the boys are asleep, we watch TV and love every minute of it. Sad, but true.

2. I really think I may have admitted to much already and don't want to admit anything else in fear that people that were my friends may not be anymore!! :)

1. The # 1 thing I will only admit on this blog is...that I would really like to have another baby...but I'd like him to be born at the age of 5.

I know, I know. Not that exciting. What can I say? All the juicy stuff can't be admitted on a blog!

New Pictures!

2008-10-01T18:40:00.001-07:00

Denae took some new pics of us and we love them! Here are some of our favorites!

Brotherly Love

2008-09-20T19:15:00.000-07:00

Nothing warms my heart more than when my two boys are playing together, laughing together, and falling asleep side by side. As Tate and Cash get older, they are developing such a great friendship that is priceless and precious to watch. Tate takes such good care of Cash and Cash wants to do everything his big brother does. Of course they have their days of fighting (and yelling, and arguing over toys, and hitting, and all that good stuff!) but overall they are best buddies. I hope and pray they continue to take care of each other and watch over each other as they grow up. They just melt my heart!

Tate's room had some water seep in from the mortar after the "great flood" last weekend so Shannon (my sis) made the boys a bed on the floor. My brother and sister and I used to love to throw blankets and pillows on the floor and sleep!

The boys had been watching a movie together and when I went to check on them, this is what I found. Too cute!!

Tate is 5!

2008-09-14T14:55:00.000-07:00

My sweet little Tater Bug turned 5 years old Friday. I can't believe I just wrote that! These past 5 years have flown by! School was cancelled because of the rain so he got to spend the entire day playing!

Cash is 2!

2008-09-12T10:36:00.000-07:00

On Monday the 8th, my sweet little Cashy turned 2! He is getting so big and thinks he is even bigger. We have had a crazy, fun week with his birthday, a shared party, Tate's birthday today (another post later on that) and my birthday tomorrow! I can remember the birth of both of my babies like it was yesterday! And now they are both so grown up. :) And precious. :) Here are some pics of Cash on his birthday and a few from his party.

We gotta get rid of that bink!
Nana and Papa got Cash a bike!

Eating cake...all of it!
Riding in his new car!

Go Cowboys!

2008-09-07T10:56:00.001-07:00

For those of you that know my husband, you know he is a huge Dallas Cowboy fan. So you can imagine the excitement around my house today now that football season has begun! We are all set in our Cowboy gear and ready to watch the game! Go Cowboys!!!

Cooper vs. Cancer

2008-08-28T20:50:00.000-07:00

My friend Jana and I decided to involve our school district in on our plan to raise money for the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. We created a team named Cooper vs. Cancer and our goal was to have 25 members participate in the race and to raise $1000. So far we have 11 members and $300. However, today I received news that our high school cross country team voted to run in the Race for the Cure instead of going to their cross country meet on Oct. 4th! Isn't that awesome?? That is going to add about 20 members to our team! We are now looking for someone to "sponsor" us and buy us T-shirts! Jennifer Colley's (friend and co-worker) husband said he would design us shirts and I'd love to be able to give each member of our team a shirt, bought by our "still unknown" sponsor. I am so excited about all of this. This Race has made me get off my rear and start running again and now I feel like, not only am I getting in shape, but I am contributing to a GREAT cause! If you want to join our team, let me know!!

It's Here...

2008-08-26T13:01:00.000-07:00

My 3 sweet boys!
Tate and Mrs. Spears
Walking down the hallway like a big boy!

My little Tater Bug started "big school" yesterday! I am not a real sappy mom but something about seeing him all dressed up with his backpack and lunch box just brought out the tears! It blows my mind that he is old enough to be in Pre-K. I can remember the day I found out he was a boy like it was yesterday and now almost 5 years has flown by. Crazy! He has a wonderful teacher, Lesli Spears, and is just loving it..so far! He even got selected to be the line leader this week! I am so lucky to be right down the hall from him and I get to see him in the hallways and at lunch each day. I am one proud mommy!

Running...

2008-08-18T19:17:00.000-07:00

I have finally been inspired. I'm not sure by what. Maybe all of the clothes in my closet that once fit me after I lost 30 pounds (plus 30 pounds of baby weight!) after I had Tate, but just hang there now waiting to be worn. Or maybe the idea that a thin person really does exist somewhere inside! Who knows? The point is that I am finally motivated to lose weight again. So, 2 Mondays ago I started walking a lap then running a lap. At 5:00 AM! I love that I have my workout over with before my day even starts and some days I even go do it again in the afternoon. I am now up to 3 miles. And I am starting to go to a spin class twice a week. I am loving it. So yesterday a friend and I decided to take it to the next level. So we started a team to run in the Race for the Cure on October 4th! Thanks Jana!! Our goal is to run the entire race (3.1 miles), to recruit 25 members, and to raise $1000. Our team is called "Cooper vs. Cancer". I am so excited to be doing this!! Not only is it for a great cause but it is keeping me motivated each morning when that awful alarm starts to ring!