Those of you that have been following my blog know that I have lost a lot of weight in the past few months. In January, I changed my eating habits considerably and it helped me to lose the rest of my baby weight, plus about 15 more pounds. The combination of intense exercise at UFIT bootcamp (http://www.ufit.ca/) and better food choices really made a difference for me. However, when I say "better food choices", it doesn't necessarily mean what you think it would mean. You see, I'm a horrible eater and always have been. I don't eat vegetables. I hate vegetables. The only vegetable I can handle is potato (which doesn't even seem like a vegetable to me). When I say that I started eating healthier, I mean that I cut back on the fast food, frozen pizzas, Kraft dinner and chips. I started to eat things like fruit, yogurt and high fibre cereal. Essentially, I lost weight because I went from being a horrible eater to an "okay" eater.
About a month ago, I reached my goal weight and started to eat more treats. I could slowly feel myself slipping back into old habits. I started going through drive-thrus again and I munched on empty calories during the day. My weight wasn't affected by these changes. I have been the exact same weight for almost a month now (my goal weight).
This past week I decided that I wanted to get back on track with the healthy eating. I'm doing it for a different reason this time. My whole life I have been a bit obsessed with my weight, watching the scale go up and down over the years. I would diet to lose weight, but then would end up putting it back on. Anytime I have decided to "eat better", it has been because I wanted to lose weight. Well, this time it's different. I don't care if I lose any more weight. I'm happy where I am. I just want to be healthier. I want to set a good example for Grace. How am I going to get her to eat vegetables if Mike and I don't touch them?!
I went grocery shopping on Thursday and stocked up on healthy food (lots of veggies, fruit, yogurt, chicken, turkey, etc). I was excited to try new things and to start eating veggies! Here's where it gets frustrating. I just can't do it. Tonight I made a pita pizza and decided to make a small salad to go with it. Spinach, feta cheese, strawberries, almonds...it looked delicious! I sat down to eat it, feeling proud of myself. Well, it was disgusting. I gagged more than once and just couldn't make myself eat it. I ended up throwing it out.
I was so mad at myself. I'm sure it's all in my head. Why can't I force myself to eat veggies??? I've tried them cooked, I've tried them raw, I've tried them drenched in butter and dressing. Nothing seems to work. I know that there are other ways to get my vegetable servings. When I was pregnant, I pureed veggies and put them in pasta sauces. I used to make smoothies with V8 juice. Here's the thing though...I don't want to hide the veggies, because that defeats the purpose of getting Grace to love them. She needs to see me eating them. I guess I'll have to try again and hope that I can learn to love them (although it doesn't look very promising). If you have any great ways of making veggies taste good, please share!
For now, I'll stick to the fruit and hope that Grace doesn't notice that I don't eat my veggies! :(
June 18, 2011
June 16, 2011
Brrrrrr!!!
One of my favourite things about PEI is the beaches. They are breathtaking. I could spend the whole summer at the beach. I love the feeling of the sand between my toes. I love the smell of sunscreen. I love the sound of waves crashing. In past summers, I would spend countless hours laying in the sand with the sun beating down on me. I would get excited as my skin turned a golden brown (I do wear sunscreen, but I tan very easily and sure do love a good summer tan).
As a teacher, I am very lucky to have the summers off (I think teachers need that break to re-group and get their sanity back, lol). I was especially excited about this summer, because it's Grace's first summer and I can't wait to get her to the beach.
Here's the thing...the weather sucks these days. There's no other way to put it. It just plain sucks. We have the odd nice, sunny day and then it is followed by a week of rain or freezing cold temperatures. This week has been especially cold. On Tuesday, I took Grace to Mike's ball game and the wind was so cold that we couldn't stay. I had 3 layers on and would have worn mitts and a hat if I had them. Poor Grace had so many layers on that she could hardly move and her little hands were still freezing.
Last night, it was so cold in our house that I had to crank the heat. Grace wore her flannel sleeper to bed, I wore my flannel pajama pants and we broke out some extra blankets. This isn't supposed to be the case in June. We're supposed to be at the beach!!!
Excuse me for being bitter about the weather. I've just had enough of it. Time for some warmth and sunshine. Now, excuse me, but I have to go put some socks on. My feet are freezing. :)
As a teacher, I am very lucky to have the summers off (I think teachers need that break to re-group and get their sanity back, lol). I was especially excited about this summer, because it's Grace's first summer and I can't wait to get her to the beach.
Here's the thing...the weather sucks these days. There's no other way to put it. It just plain sucks. We have the odd nice, sunny day and then it is followed by a week of rain or freezing cold temperatures. This week has been especially cold. On Tuesday, I took Grace to Mike's ball game and the wind was so cold that we couldn't stay. I had 3 layers on and would have worn mitts and a hat if I had them. Poor Grace had so many layers on that she could hardly move and her little hands were still freezing.
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| Is this how I'm supposed to dress in June? |
Excuse me for being bitter about the weather. I've just had enough of it. Time for some warmth and sunshine. Now, excuse me, but I have to go put some socks on. My feet are freezing. :)
June 11, 2011
Bathtime Buddies
A couple of months ago, I decided to have my first bath with Grace. I had been skeptical about it. Honestly, I wasn't sure if it was weird or not. Was it creepy to have a bath with my baby? I decided that it was worth trying. I mean, she came from inside of me and there's nothing weirder than that, right?! Turns out, we both loved it and I now try to squeeze in a bath with her once a week or so. It's great on nights when Mike isn't home and we both need to have a bath. It's an easy way to kill two birds with one stone!
There's just something about laying there in a warm bubble bath with your baby in your arms. It doesn't feel weird. It doesn't feel creepy. It just feels right. :)
Then it's off to her bedroom for a lotion massage, a story, a feeding and some snuggles before bed.
I give you total permission to judge me and find it weird that I bath with my baby. However, if you haven't done it before, I recommend trying it. It's just one more way to squeeze in some extra bonding time. I figure that I need to take advantage of all these special moments while I have the chance, because they grow WAY too fast! So, I will continue to relax in the suds with my baby girl on my chest. :)
Grace loves the fact that the water is deeper than usual and that she can splash her Mommy and get a reaction!
I love the fact that it's easier to hold onto her and not as hard on my back as leaning over the tub! It's easier to clean her too! We both love the extra playtime and the extra snuggles.
It is such a relaxing time and we're always in there way longer than I planned. Tonight she was super tired and she even laid down on my chest and rested for a little while (something that she rarely does anymore). So special. :)
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| Sorry for the partially nude photo. I figured it was no worse than a bathing suit picture! |
There's just something about laying there in a warm bubble bath with your baby in your arms. It doesn't feel weird. It doesn't feel creepy. It just feels right. :)
Getting out is always a bit of a challenge, because I need to get dressed before she gets cold. She almost always waits patiently in her vibrating chair while I get dressed though! :)
Then it's off to her bedroom for a lotion massage, a story, a feeding and some snuggles before bed.
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| All ready for bed! |
Summer Weakness
This, my friends, is my summer weakness.
Vanilla soft serve...there's nothing better.
P.S. This is a small...how freaking big is a large? :)
Grace likes it too. :)
Ice cream. For some reason when the sun starts to shine, I take it as an excuse to eat ice cream as often as I want. LOL.
This, my friends, is why I gain weight every summer.
June 03, 2011
I Have A LOT To Say...
So, in case you haven't noticed, I've been lacking with the posts lately! Sorry! I kind of forgot about my blog for awhile and then was just too busy to find the time to write! I have some updates and some random thoughts to share, so this post will not be about one particular thing! It's going to be a long one...
1. Grace's belly: I forgot to update you all on Grace's belly situation (for those of you that have been following my updates on the blog). We saw a pediatrician last month and she told us that Grace has a classic case of constipation, very common in babies when they are introduced to solid food. Because we had tried many of the classic solutions for this (prunes, water, etc) and they weren't working, she prescribed a mild laxative. It has worked wonders and Grace is seriously like a different baby. She is so much happier. Turns out she has probably been dealing with cramps for quite awhile now, so it was good to get it all sorted out! Hooray! :)
2. Sleep update: Nights have gotten a little better since the last time I posted. Grace now wakes up twice each night. The odd time she will only get up once. Still not great, but better than before. She almost always puts herself to sleep in her crib now too - yay! I haven't been rocking her to sleep. When she wakes in the middle of the night, I nurse her for 5 minues and then put her back in her crib. She falls asleep in no time. However, the feedings are becoming a habit that she relies on, so the next step is to try to eliminate at least one of those nighttime feedings.
3. The Babysitter: We went to meet Grace's babysitter today. She will have Grace full time starting in September when I return to work. The visit went so well and I feel so good about sending her there. She was sweet, she loved Grace and Grace loved her! I know that she will be in good hands. It feels like a huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders. It's still going to be incredibly hard to leave her, but knowing that she is somewhere great makes it that much easier!
4. Work: On that note, I am STRESSED about the whole work situation. I try not to worry about it, but it's hard. As many of you know, I'm a teacher. I had a full time job out west (my dream job), but left it to come home to PEI. Jobs are scarce here and it is a highly competitive profession. Sometimes I look back at pictures of my classroom and students in Fort McMurray and I feel like crying. I just feel like I'm never going to have that again. :( I have already prepared myself to substitute teach when I return in the fall. I'm fine with subbing. I just wish that it was guaranteed work. It sucks that there could be weeks that I don't get any calls. It sucks that there are no benefits (something we don't have right now). It sucks that I could be driving all over the province. It sucks that I don't get paid in the summer. I would kill for a guaranteed position, even if it was a temporary job (someone's maternity leave, sick leave, etc). All jobs are posted on June 15th. Someone told me the other day that there are approximately 400 applicants for each teaching job on PEI!!! Just a little competition. I have spent this week updating my resume and trying to "sell myself" (something I hate doing). Next week I will go out and drop my resume off to principals (probably pointless, but I'm going to do everything I can). Cross your fingers for me. Hell, cross your toes too (and anything else worth crossing)!
5. Fitness classes: As you may recall, I lead a group of Mommies in a workout each week. Our group has grown immensely and we usually have 20-35 people at every workout. The babies come with us and we have a grand ol' time! :) Well, I was informed this week that we would no longer be able to do our workouts at the gym we were using. We've been there for months now, but they are kicking us out because I don't have the certification to lead a class. They knew that I wasn't certified when I started there and they told me it wouldn't be a problem. The girls coming to the classes sign a waiver and are fully aware that I'm not certified. Apparently this doesn't matter. I started this fitness group so that new Moms could meet other Moms and get a workout in during the day with their babies. I do it for free, because I don't want anyone to be held back because of money issues. I'm so frustrated and annoyed that they would do this to us! Since when are you not allowed to workout with your friends at a public gym??? I'm sure I could fight this, but it's really not worth it. We're on the hunt for a new place and the old place can kiss my @ss! Sorry...I'm a little bitter.
6. Running: I got a jogging stroller, thanks to Mike's cousin. She had 2, so she gave one to us! The weather still hasn't been fantastic, but we've gotten out a few times with it. The first day that I had it, I decided to attempt a 5km run on the trail and I DID IT!!! Grace was a trooper - didn't say a word the whole time. She was probably laughing inside at the sound of her mother huffing and puffing and talking to herself. I literally talked out loud saying things like "1 more km Cheryl, you can do this!" and "We're almost there Grace!" and "You are not tired...you are not tired...you are not tired!" LOL. It was not a pretty sight. I was sweating bullets. My shoulders were hunched. My head was flailing around. I was panting like a dog. My legs felt like lead. Can you picture it? ha ha. It took me 35 minutes to run the 5km with the stroller. My goal was 30 minutes, so this was obviously slower than I anticipated. However, I was still proud of myself! I haven't gotten out to try it again, but hope to shave at least a minute off my time next time around!
6. Changes: As I mentioned in my last post, I finally reached my weight loss goal and am down to my "wedding weight" (139 lbs). I haven't lost any weight in the past 2 weeks, but am happy with where I am. I feel fantastic! The challenge now is to maintain this weight, while I contine to work on my fitness goals!
7. Anniversary: Monday was my anniversary with my husband, Mike! We've been together for 10.5 years and have been married for 3 years. We had a great date night with dinner and a movie. Mike and I met when we were working together as teenagers. We started dating when I was 16 and he was 17. The rest is history! :) Like most couples, we have had our ups and downs over the years, but I cannot imagine my life without him. Our wedding day was the happiest day of my life. I was on cloud 9 the entire day. I just couldn't believe how lucky I was to be marrying him. I look forward to many more happy years together! I love you, Mike! xoxo
8. My Incredible Little Girl: Grace continues to grow and I love her more each day (if that's even possible). She is turning into such a little girl, full of personality. She squeals for attention, smiles when you talk to her and flaps her arms when she gets excited. She LOVES food and it's so much fun to try her with new things. She prefers to feed herself and I just love watching those little fingers work so hard to pick up each tiny piece of food. She sits up independently now (finally) and is starting to move herself around the room. She pushes back with her arms and moves forward from time to time. She hasn't mastered the art of crawling yet, but I have a feeling it won't be long. She is into everything, exploring every nook and cranny of our living room. I could sit for hours and just watch her. She is so entertaining. I can't imagine what my life was like before she was in it. I love her so much and look forward to a summer full of adventures with her! :)
9. Friends: I love my friends. They are amazing. I don't know what I'd do without them. I miss them if I go more than a few days without seeing them. Enough said. :)
10. I am happy. Despite the stress over work, I really am happy. I feel so lucky to be living this life, because it really is fantastic! :)
1. Grace's belly: I forgot to update you all on Grace's belly situation (for those of you that have been following my updates on the blog). We saw a pediatrician last month and she told us that Grace has a classic case of constipation, very common in babies when they are introduced to solid food. Because we had tried many of the classic solutions for this (prunes, water, etc) and they weren't working, she prescribed a mild laxative. It has worked wonders and Grace is seriously like a different baby. She is so much happier. Turns out she has probably been dealing with cramps for quite awhile now, so it was good to get it all sorted out! Hooray! :)
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| My Happy Girl! :) |
2. Sleep update: Nights have gotten a little better since the last time I posted. Grace now wakes up twice each night. The odd time she will only get up once. Still not great, but better than before. She almost always puts herself to sleep in her crib now too - yay! I haven't been rocking her to sleep. When she wakes in the middle of the night, I nurse her for 5 minues and then put her back in her crib. She falls asleep in no time. However, the feedings are becoming a habit that she relies on, so the next step is to try to eliminate at least one of those nighttime feedings.
3. The Babysitter: We went to meet Grace's babysitter today. She will have Grace full time starting in September when I return to work. The visit went so well and I feel so good about sending her there. She was sweet, she loved Grace and Grace loved her! I know that she will be in good hands. It feels like a huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders. It's still going to be incredibly hard to leave her, but knowing that she is somewhere great makes it that much easier!
4. Work: On that note, I am STRESSED about the whole work situation. I try not to worry about it, but it's hard. As many of you know, I'm a teacher. I had a full time job out west (my dream job), but left it to come home to PEI. Jobs are scarce here and it is a highly competitive profession. Sometimes I look back at pictures of my classroom and students in Fort McMurray and I feel like crying. I just feel like I'm never going to have that again. :( I have already prepared myself to substitute teach when I return in the fall. I'm fine with subbing. I just wish that it was guaranteed work. It sucks that there could be weeks that I don't get any calls. It sucks that there are no benefits (something we don't have right now). It sucks that I could be driving all over the province. It sucks that I don't get paid in the summer. I would kill for a guaranteed position, even if it was a temporary job (someone's maternity leave, sick leave, etc). All jobs are posted on June 15th. Someone told me the other day that there are approximately 400 applicants for each teaching job on PEI!!! Just a little competition. I have spent this week updating my resume and trying to "sell myself" (something I hate doing). Next week I will go out and drop my resume off to principals (probably pointless, but I'm going to do everything I can). Cross your fingers for me. Hell, cross your toes too (and anything else worth crossing)!
5. Fitness classes: As you may recall, I lead a group of Mommies in a workout each week. Our group has grown immensely and we usually have 20-35 people at every workout. The babies come with us and we have a grand ol' time! :) Well, I was informed this week that we would no longer be able to do our workouts at the gym we were using. We've been there for months now, but they are kicking us out because I don't have the certification to lead a class. They knew that I wasn't certified when I started there and they told me it wouldn't be a problem. The girls coming to the classes sign a waiver and are fully aware that I'm not certified. Apparently this doesn't matter. I started this fitness group so that new Moms could meet other Moms and get a workout in during the day with their babies. I do it for free, because I don't want anyone to be held back because of money issues. I'm so frustrated and annoyed that they would do this to us! Since when are you not allowed to workout with your friends at a public gym??? I'm sure I could fight this, but it's really not worth it. We're on the hunt for a new place and the old place can kiss my @ss! Sorry...I'm a little bitter.
6. Running: I got a jogging stroller, thanks to Mike's cousin. She had 2, so she gave one to us! The weather still hasn't been fantastic, but we've gotten out a few times with it. The first day that I had it, I decided to attempt a 5km run on the trail and I DID IT!!! Grace was a trooper - didn't say a word the whole time. She was probably laughing inside at the sound of her mother huffing and puffing and talking to herself. I literally talked out loud saying things like "1 more km Cheryl, you can do this!" and "We're almost there Grace!" and "You are not tired...you are not tired...you are not tired!" LOL. It was not a pretty sight. I was sweating bullets. My shoulders were hunched. My head was flailing around. I was panting like a dog. My legs felt like lead. Can you picture it? ha ha. It took me 35 minutes to run the 5km with the stroller. My goal was 30 minutes, so this was obviously slower than I anticipated. However, I was still proud of myself! I haven't gotten out to try it again, but hope to shave at least a minute off my time next time around!
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| My "new" jogging stroller! |
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| Immediately after completing our first 5km run! :) |
6. Changes: As I mentioned in my last post, I finally reached my weight loss goal and am down to my "wedding weight" (139 lbs). I haven't lost any weight in the past 2 weeks, but am happy with where I am. I feel fantastic! The challenge now is to maintain this weight, while I contine to work on my fitness goals!
Here are some recently updated before and after pics!
7. Anniversary: Monday was my anniversary with my husband, Mike! We've been together for 10.5 years and have been married for 3 years. We had a great date night with dinner and a movie. Mike and I met when we were working together as teenagers. We started dating when I was 16 and he was 17. The rest is history! :) Like most couples, we have had our ups and downs over the years, but I cannot imagine my life without him. Our wedding day was the happiest day of my life. I was on cloud 9 the entire day. I just couldn't believe how lucky I was to be marrying him. I look forward to many more happy years together! I love you, Mike! xoxo
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| This one's an oldie!!! |
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| Engagement pictures - Fall 2007 |
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| Our wedding - May 31, 2008 |
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| Pregnancy pictures - June 2010 |
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| Our family is growing! Grace's birthday - Sept. 16, 2010 |
8. My Incredible Little Girl: Grace continues to grow and I love her more each day (if that's even possible). She is turning into such a little girl, full of personality. She squeals for attention, smiles when you talk to her and flaps her arms when she gets excited. She LOVES food and it's so much fun to try her with new things. She prefers to feed herself and I just love watching those little fingers work so hard to pick up each tiny piece of food. She sits up independently now (finally) and is starting to move herself around the room. She pushes back with her arms and moves forward from time to time. She hasn't mastered the art of crawling yet, but I have a feeling it won't be long. She is into everything, exploring every nook and cranny of our living room. I could sit for hours and just watch her. She is so entertaining. I can't imagine what my life was like before she was in it. I love her so much and look forward to a summer full of adventures with her! :)
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| Trying some cheese! :) |
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| Sitting up and banging things together! :) |
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| Exploring the coffee table! |
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| Checking out the dandelions! :) |
9. Friends: I love my friends. They are amazing. I don't know what I'd do without them. I miss them if I go more than a few days without seeing them. Enough said. :)
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| My girls - Jill, Tanya and Sherri |
10. I am happy. Despite the stress over work, I really am happy. I feel so lucky to be living this life, because it really is fantastic! :)
May 19, 2011
I Love Today!
Do you ever have one of those days when everything just seems to go right? Today was one of those days for me. First of all, I woke up feeling rested for once. Last night, Grace slept 10 hours straight, ate and went back down for 3 more hours. We were both happy when we woke up. To top it off, the sun was shining and I could hear the birds chirping outside. Since it's been raining for almost 2 weeks, this was a very nice change of pace! :)
I jumped on the scale this morning (I hadn't been on it since Monday) and the number that I saw brought tears to my eyes. After months of hard work, there it was...my ultimate goal weight. The scale said 139.7. Seriously? OMG!!! Sheer excitement! I weighed 139 on my wedding day almost 3 years ago. I stayed at that weight for a mere 2 days and then slipped back into the 140's. I never made it back into the 130's. So, imagine my excitement this morning when I saw that number on the scale. I was STOKED! I actually jumped up and down in the bathroom, with Grace looking at me like I was crazy! I'm proud of myself (something that doesn't happen very often). I feel like I worked really hard to get to this point and I really hope I can stay here. My goal now is to maintain this weight. That being said, I'm still not small by any means, so if I lose a few more pounds, it wouldn't be a bad thing. I feel fantastic though! I feel strong. I feel healthy. I feel energized. I feel powerful. What a way to start your day, eh? :)
This afternoon, Sherri, Jill and I went for a walk with the babies! The sun was shining, it was 21 degrees and it was gorgeous! It's amazing how much better you feel after a little vitamin D!
We walked for about an hour. It was so hot that I could feel the sweat trickling down my back. I loved every minute of it! We headed to the park for a little playtime after our walk - so much fun!
I got home and felt fantastic! I LOVE the sun and I love the summer! Yay! Grace was in a great mood all day too - I think she enjoyed the weather!
This evening, we had outdoor bootcamp. The last 2 sessions took place outside in the rain and cold temperatures. I'm talking layers of clothes, winter hats and gloves! Tonight was the opposite. We were sweating right from the beginning. When I was finished, I was soaked in sweat and my face was redder than I think it's ever been. I loved it! It felt so good to be outside. I also realized that I got a sunburn today...probably should have been wearing sunscreen. First sunburn of the season! :)
So, forgive me for bragging, but my day was pretty friggin' awesome! My fingers are crossed for more sunshine and happiness tomorrow! :)
I jumped on the scale this morning (I hadn't been on it since Monday) and the number that I saw brought tears to my eyes. After months of hard work, there it was...my ultimate goal weight. The scale said 139.7. Seriously? OMG!!! Sheer excitement! I weighed 139 on my wedding day almost 3 years ago. I stayed at that weight for a mere 2 days and then slipped back into the 140's. I never made it back into the 130's. So, imagine my excitement this morning when I saw that number on the scale. I was STOKED! I actually jumped up and down in the bathroom, with Grace looking at me like I was crazy! I'm proud of myself (something that doesn't happen very often). I feel like I worked really hard to get to this point and I really hope I can stay here. My goal now is to maintain this weight. That being said, I'm still not small by any means, so if I lose a few more pounds, it wouldn't be a bad thing. I feel fantastic though! I feel strong. I feel healthy. I feel energized. I feel powerful. What a way to start your day, eh? :)
This afternoon, Sherri, Jill and I went for a walk with the babies! The sun was shining, it was 21 degrees and it was gorgeous! It's amazing how much better you feel after a little vitamin D!
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| Abigail, Harrison and Grace all ready for a walk on the trail! |
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| Sherri and I with our babies in their strollers! :) |
The babies got some time in the swings.
There was some fun to be had on the slides!
They got to play in the grass for the first time.
There were cuddles and pictures as always!
I got home and felt fantastic! I LOVE the sun and I love the summer! Yay! Grace was in a great mood all day too - I think she enjoyed the weather!
This evening, we had outdoor bootcamp. The last 2 sessions took place outside in the rain and cold temperatures. I'm talking layers of clothes, winter hats and gloves! Tonight was the opposite. We were sweating right from the beginning. When I was finished, I was soaked in sweat and my face was redder than I think it's ever been. I loved it! It felt so good to be outside. I also realized that I got a sunburn today...probably should have been wearing sunscreen. First sunburn of the season! :)
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| This is what I looked like after bootcamp! Can you say RED?! |
May 14, 2011
I am Blessed
Last night we had a family get-together at my aunt's house. It was to celebrate Mother's Day with my grandmother. For the first time in 3 years, all of the grandchildren were there and my grandmother was beaming with pride. She just loves getting us all together!
I love my cousins and have always been really close to them, so it was nice to see everyone. Once again, I was reminded of how lucky I am to have my family. When we all get together, it is guaranteed to be a good time. It is loud, the room is often filled with uncontrollable laughter and the happiness is infectious. Did I mention that there is never a shortage of delicious food? :) I always leave family get-togethers with a smile on my face.
Looking at these pictures, I can't help but wonder, "Where did the little kids go?" As you can see, the last 5 grandchildren have been boys. I remember when they were little babies. I babysat them. I changed their diapers. I spent hours playing with them. It makes me sick to see how quickly they're growing up! Wow!
Last night, we got our first "4 Generations" picture. I've been meaning to do this for months, but keep forgetting. So, last night Grace, me, Mom and Nanny got a couple of pictures.
I am so grateful that Grace is growing up in a big, wonderful family. She has 3 grandfathers, 3 grandmothers and many great-grandparents. When I was growing up, I had a great-grandmother and I remember being so proud of that. I am so happy that Grace not only has grandparents that love her, but great-grandparents that adore her too! Grace tends to "play shy" with my Nanny, but last night she sat with her for a long time, talking to her and playing with her. Nanny was in her glory.
As I said, I feel so blessed to have such a big family. I can't imagine it any other way! When we get together, it's like we've never been apart. Some people would say we're crazy for all of the get-togethers that we have, but it's a great way to catch up and we always enjoy ourselves so much! When I was living away, I always hated to miss the family parties, so I appreciate them a lot more now.
If I had a glass of champagne right now, I would toast my grandparents, because they are at the root of this amazing family. Then I would toast my extended family, because my life would not be the same without you! I'm lucky to have you. Grace is lucky to have you. I am blessed. :)
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| All of the grandchildren with Nanny and Grampy! |
Looking at these pictures, I can't help but wonder, "Where did the little kids go?" As you can see, the last 5 grandchildren have been boys. I remember when they were little babies. I babysat them. I changed their diapers. I spent hours playing with them. It makes me sick to see how quickly they're growing up! Wow!
Last night, we got our first "4 Generations" picture. I've been meaning to do this for months, but keep forgetting. So, last night Grace, me, Mom and Nanny got a couple of pictures.
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| Four Generations of Women! |
As I said, I feel so blessed to have such a big family. I can't imagine it any other way! When we get together, it's like we've never been apart. Some people would say we're crazy for all of the get-togethers that we have, but it's a great way to catch up and we always enjoy ourselves so much! When I was living away, I always hated to miss the family parties, so I appreciate them a lot more now.
If I had a glass of champagne right now, I would toast my grandparents, because they are at the root of this amazing family. Then I would toast my extended family, because my life would not be the same without you! I'm lucky to have you. Grace is lucky to have you. I am blessed. :)
May 09, 2011
Mommy's Day
Last year I was pregnant on Mother's Day. I remember thinking that I couldn't wait until my first Mother's Day with my little baby. I also couldn't wait to be back with my own Mom (since I was living away at the time and had missed 2 Mother's Days in a row). You see, my Mom is amazing. She is the most supportive, loving and caring person I know. She would do anything for her children. Mom has cheered me on my entire life, whether it be at stepdancing when I was little, or at my university graduation. She has been an incredible role model for me over the years. When I thought about becoming a Mom myself, I knew that I'd be happy if I could be even half the Mom that she is. She was in the delivery room when I had Grace and it was an overwhelming moment to share with each other. Mom loves Grace so much and is such a fantastic Nanny. I don't know what I would do with her. So, Happy Mother's Day to my amazing Mommy! xoxo
Being a Mommy is the most incredible feeling in the world. My life has changed so much in the past 8 months and I find it hard to imagine what life was like without Grace in it. We have this bond, this connection, that amazes me each day.
When I look at pictures of us, I'm beaming in all of them! I am so in love with my baby girl and it shows in my expressions. See the goofy grin on my face? I can't help it! :)
I've wanted to be a Mommy since I was a little girl. It's something I've dreamed about and longed for. I always said that I would have all of my kids by the time I was 30! Since I'm 27 this year, I do not see that happening anymore, but I am glad that I started relatively young. I just couldn't wait any longer! Motherhood is even better than I expected! My house may be a disaster most of the time, you may find teethers under the couch and if you drop in to see me before noon, chances are I'll still be in my pajamas. Grace doesn't care what I look like and I no longer worry about what people think of me. My goal is to make her happy and to make her life the absolute best that it can be. She is my focus every day. She is the reason I get out of bed. She is my life.
Not everyone has the opportunity to be a Mommy and I am so thankful that I have been given this beautiful gift, a happy, healthy baby. To all the Moms out there, I hope you had a fantastic Mother's Day! xoxo
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| Mom and I at my wedding shower - May 2008 |
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| May 31, 2008 |
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| At Dad's 50th Birthday Party - October 2009 |
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| Incredible moment after Grace was born - September 16, 2010 |
Being a Mommy is the most incredible feeling in the world. My life has changed so much in the past 8 months and I find it hard to imagine what life was like without Grace in it. We have this bond, this connection, that amazes me each day.
How incredible is it that a mere snuggle from her Mommy
can make those tears disappear?
When I look at pictures of us, I'm beaming in all of them! I am so in love with my baby girl and it shows in my expressions. See the goofy grin on my face? I can't help it! :)
I've wanted to be a Mommy since I was a little girl. It's something I've dreamed about and longed for. I always said that I would have all of my kids by the time I was 30! Since I'm 27 this year, I do not see that happening anymore, but I am glad that I started relatively young. I just couldn't wait any longer! Motherhood is even better than I expected! My house may be a disaster most of the time, you may find teethers under the couch and if you drop in to see me before noon, chances are I'll still be in my pajamas. Grace doesn't care what I look like and I no longer worry about what people think of me. My goal is to make her happy and to make her life the absolute best that it can be. She is my focus every day. She is the reason I get out of bed. She is my life.
Not everyone has the opportunity to be a Mommy and I am so thankful that I have been given this beautiful gift, a happy, healthy baby. To all the Moms out there, I hope you had a fantastic Mother's Day! xoxo
May 05, 2011
Besties
Do you have a bestie? You know what I mean...that one true friend that stands out among all the rest. The one that you turn to first with big news (whether it be exciting or devastating). The one that knows all of your embarassing secrets and loves you just the same. The one that is more like a sister than a friend.
We met in 7th grade and have pretty much been inseperable since. Need a good laugh? Check out these early pictures of us!
If you have a bestie, you know what I mean when I say that I can't imagine my life without her. She means the world to me and our friendship has grown so much over the years. When I lived out west for 2 years, we kept in touch via e-mail and Facebook. I was just looking through old e-mails today and realized that I had 387 e-mails from Sherri during that 2 year span (yes, she has her own folder). We may have been in different provinces, but we kept each other up to date on every aspect of our lives!
Conveniently, we met our husbands while working at Burger King (when we were 15) and they just happen to be first cousins. We quickly became the "Fab 4" and time together became even more frequent! I love that I get my "girl time" with Sherri, plus I get extra "bestie time" when the 4 of us are together (well, 6 of us now)! ;)
Sherri and I have been through a lot together and she as always been an amazing support system! It's impossible to put the importance of our friendship into words.
We have had our fair share of serious moments and many many silly moments. I seem to have more pictures of the silly moments! :)
She was my maid of honor when I got married in May 2008 and I was hers when she got married in June 2009. Her speech at the reception made me cry and I like to watch it on my wedding DVD frequently!
Do you and your bestie have matching pajamas??? Sherri and I sure do! We have worn them on more than one occasion!
We have shared some of life's most exciting moments together. When she told me she was pregnant, I was insanely excited for her. When I found out that I was pregnant about a month later, she was just a little bit excited too! This is a caption from her e-mail the day she found out that I was pregnant:
eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeekkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkk!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I'm so happy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You are moving home!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Our babies will be BFF!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Just like us!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I removed several exclamation marks and the opening line, which was HOLY F---! (with about 100 more exclamation marks).
We were SO excited to be pregnant together! Since I didn't move home until the end of June (she had her little guy the end of July), we kept in touch through e-mail and Facebook again, sending constant pictures of our bellies, comparing symptoms and asking a billion questions. It was the most amazing and special thing to be able to to share with my bestie!
When we found out that our babies would be the opposite sex, it gave us an excuse to shop for cute boy things AND girl things! If she saw something pink that she liked, she let me know and if I saw something blue, I let her know! It worked out perfectly!
In true "bestie style", we couldn't wait to call each other after the birth of our babies. I will never forget that phone call from her husband at 3am on Harrison's birthday. He told me that she was in active labour and there was no way I was going to fall back to sleep after that. I was so excited that I was shaking. I was teary. I was overwhelmed. My bestie was having a baby! She called me as soon as he was born and I was so proud of her. I could not wait to get into the hospital to see them! See how I'm beaming like a new Mom is this picture? It's because he's like my own and always will be.
When I was in labour with Grace, I got Mike to call and let Sherri know. Once I had my epidural and was more comfortable, I called her from the delivery room. I couldn't wait to talk to her and share all of the excitement! I called her again when Grace was born and she arrived to meet her "niece" as soon as she could! Shhh...don't tell the hospital that we broke the visitor rules!
I can't imagine what it would have been like to go through those first few months as a new Mommy without Sherri! We turned to each other with every little question (well, we still do) and we shared the tiniest little excitement with each other. It brought our friendship to a whole new level.
I know without a doubt that Sherri and I will be "besties" forever! You know that little acronym "BFF - Best Friends Forever"? I wonder how many people wrote that on their junior high notes and are still best friends with the people? I wrote that on MANY notes to Sherri when I was younger. I had no idea at the time that our friendship would develop into something as amazing as it has.
I also realized when looking through old pictures that we are very talented. I think it's safe to say that we have mastered the reverse pic! What do ya think? LOL
Our lives have changed a lot over the last 15 years, but one thing has remained constant. I will always have my bestie and I know that I can count on her for anything. We may not be as skinny as we used to be, we may have bags under our eyes from sleepless nights and we may be happier in our sweats than heels (who am I kidding? We've always been that way), but we are perfect in each other's eyes. Instead of seeing faults in your bestie, you always see their strengths. That way, when you are hard on yourself and focus on your flaws, your bestie will be right there to tell you why you're wrong! :)
If you have a bestie, I hope that you realize how lucky you are. I know that I couldn't live without mine. Take a minute today to tell your bestie how important she is. Have a girls night in your pj's. Eat your favourite treats together. Laugh at old memories. Cry over sappy movies. Take silly reverse pictures. Watch old episodes of your favourite shows. Hug her. Thank her. Tell her that you love her.
I have a bestie. Her name is Sherri.
Before the days of babies and husbands,
there were the days of Sherri and Cheryl.
We met in 7th grade and have pretty much been inseperable since. Need a good laugh? Check out these early pictures of us!
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| Sherri and I at Camp Abegweit (Junior High) |
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| We took frequent trips to Dairy Queen! |
If you have a bestie, you know what I mean when I say that I can't imagine my life without her. She means the world to me and our friendship has grown so much over the years. When I lived out west for 2 years, we kept in touch via e-mail and Facebook. I was just looking through old e-mails today and realized that I had 387 e-mails from Sherri during that 2 year span (yes, she has her own folder). We may have been in different provinces, but we kept each other up to date on every aspect of our lives!
Conveniently, we met our husbands while working at Burger King (when we were 15) and they just happen to be first cousins. We quickly became the "Fab 4" and time together became even more frequent! I love that I get my "girl time" with Sherri, plus I get extra "bestie time" when the 4 of us are together (well, 6 of us now)! ;)
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| The Fab 4!! |
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| Ha ha, this picture always makes me laugh!!! |
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| This one is an oldie! Camping trip! |
Sherri and I have been through a lot together and she as always been an amazing support system! It's impossible to put the importance of our friendship into words.
We have had our fair share of serious moments and many many silly moments. I seem to have more pictures of the silly moments! :)
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| 80's Pubcrawl |
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| LOL - model faces! |
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| Sherri's stagette - back to our roots at BK! |
She was my maid of honor when I got married in May 2008 and I was hers when she got married in June 2009. Her speech at the reception made me cry and I like to watch it on my wedding DVD frequently!
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| Getting our hair done the morning of my wedding! |
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| At Sherri's wedding in 2009. |
Do you and your bestie have matching pajamas??? Sherri and I sure do! We have worn them on more than one occasion!
We have shared some of life's most exciting moments together. When she told me she was pregnant, I was insanely excited for her. When I found out that I was pregnant about a month later, she was just a little bit excited too! This is a caption from her e-mail the day she found out that I was pregnant:
eeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeekkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkkk!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I'm so happy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You are moving home!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Our babies will be BFF!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Just like us!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I removed several exclamation marks and the opening line, which was HOLY F---! (with about 100 more exclamation marks).
We were SO excited to be pregnant together! Since I didn't move home until the end of June (she had her little guy the end of July), we kept in touch through e-mail and Facebook again, sending constant pictures of our bellies, comparing symptoms and asking a billion questions. It was the most amazing and special thing to be able to to share with my bestie!
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| Home for Easter break Sherri - 21 weeks Cheryl - 17 weeks |
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| Pregnancy photo shoot Cheryl - 32 weeks Sherri - 36 weeks (delivered her son the next day)! |
In true "bestie style", we couldn't wait to call each other after the birth of our babies. I will never forget that phone call from her husband at 3am on Harrison's birthday. He told me that she was in active labour and there was no way I was going to fall back to sleep after that. I was so excited that I was shaking. I was teary. I was overwhelmed. My bestie was having a baby! She called me as soon as he was born and I was so proud of her. I could not wait to get into the hospital to see them! See how I'm beaming like a new Mom is this picture? It's because he's like my own and always will be.
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| Harrison and his "Auntie" Cheryl |
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| So excited to see my girl! Grace's "Auntie" Sherri! :) |
I can't imagine what it would have been like to go through those first few months as a new Mommy without Sherri! We turned to each other with every little question (well, we still do) and we shared the tiniest little excitement with each other. It brought our friendship to a whole new level.
 |
| With our beautiful babies - Harrison and Grace |
I know without a doubt that Sherri and I will be "besties" forever! You know that little acronym "BFF - Best Friends Forever"? I wonder how many people wrote that on their junior high notes and are still best friends with the people? I wrote that on MANY notes to Sherri when I was younger. I had no idea at the time that our friendship would develop into something as amazing as it has.
I also realized when looking through old pictures that we are very talented. I think it's safe to say that we have mastered the reverse pic! What do ya think? LOL
Our lives have changed a lot over the last 15 years, but one thing has remained constant. I will always have my bestie and I know that I can count on her for anything. We may not be as skinny as we used to be, we may have bags under our eyes from sleepless nights and we may be happier in our sweats than heels (who am I kidding? We've always been that way), but we are perfect in each other's eyes. Instead of seeing faults in your bestie, you always see their strengths. That way, when you are hard on yourself and focus on your flaws, your bestie will be right there to tell you why you're wrong! :)
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| The most recent picture of my bestie and I! Sherri and Cheryl - April 2011 |
If you have a bestie, I hope that you realize how lucky you are. I know that I couldn't live without mine. Take a minute today to tell your bestie how important she is. Have a girls night in your pj's. Eat your favourite treats together. Laugh at old memories. Cry over sappy movies. Take silly reverse pictures. Watch old episodes of your favourite shows. Hug her. Thank her. Tell her that you love her.
To say that Sherri is important to me is a major understatement. Like I said before, our friendship just can't be put into words easily.
We're besties...a special brand of besties. :)
I love you, Sher! xoxo
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