I'm Guilty...of Blog Neglect.

Yeah, so I haven't blogged in almost a month! Oh blog, how I've missed you. I've got a bunch going on, which I will now tell you aaallllll about!



Here are my current measurements:

weight - 155 = down 6 lbs
L upper arm - 11" = down 1/4"
R upper arm - 11" = down 1/4"
bust - 37" (you KNOW those are shrinkin) = down 1"
waist - 29" = down 1"
hips - 35" = down 2.5"
I'm not sure what this is called, but I wrapped the tape measure around my butt and got - 39" = down 1"
L thigh - 22.5" = down 1"
R thigh - 22.5" = down 1"
L calve - 14" = down 1/2"
R calve - 14" = down 1/2"

So I'm down six pounds & nine total inches!! I am VERY happy with myself, and I'm loving the way I feel. I've lost 13 pounds and 19 inches since I started! I can totally tell a difference! I feel like my number should be higher, but I've been doing tons of yoga and weight training classes, so I know I'm building massive muscle. I'm going more on how my clothes fit. Still 11 pounds away from pre-pregnancy of 144 pounds, and 20 pounds away from my goal weight of 135. I know I will get there, and quickly - so long as I keep up what I've been doing!

I really feel that at first it seemed so impossible, but once I stopped feeling sorry for myself and actually got off my butt - the pounds started to melt. I mean, I'm working hard to make it happen...but that's the point. You have to work for it, doesn't just fall off. I wouldn't by any means say it's difficult though, not for me anyway. The hardest part is squeezing in 3 hours of my day to working out. Anyway, if I can do it - anyone can!

Getting in shape has also started driving my interest in going back to school. I'm going to do nursing. I always thought teaching was my path, but it's not. Having Hallie gave me a whole new passion. I don't want to work on Labor and Delivery, I would like to be an OB/GYN's assistant. Getting pregnant wasn't easy for us, and my pregnancy was less than enjoyable...I really feel like I can relate to the prego's! Be a positive light in their day once a month/week. So I'm in the middle of getting registered now, and I'm pretty stoked about it all.

My little craft business is coming along as well! Visit my Faceboook page here It's a lot of work, but I enjoy every second of it. Word is getting out and I've been seeing an increase in sales! It seriously eats up a ton of my time and brain power, but I think it's worth it. For me, it's therapeutic. Sounds strange, but it really does calm me to sit down and make bows or paint or whatever. My newest project is a shopping cart cover. It's going to be SO cute and no one else will have one like it!

Hallie is growing SO fast. I can't believe she's already six months old.




That's her eating sweet potato for the first time. I'm not sure that it agreed with her tummy. She sleeps through the night perfectly and has really only had 1 or 2 bad nights since 12 weeks. Last night I put her down at nine o'clock and by eleven she was wide awake and fussy. She has some gas, so I managed to get a few burps and a toot then put her in the swing. She slept for a bit there then woke up again. Basically we got no sleep last night, until 6 am when I put her on the boob and she passed out, where she is still sound asleep now. And I'm wide awake. Go figure. Speaking of the boob, that takes me into my next subject: weening.

My plan was to have her completely off the breast by six months. Well, the thing about plans is, they rarely work out like we want them to. Hahaha. She is still nursing once a day, which obviously means she's 95% formula, but she's not giving up that 5% of the boob. Whatever, it doesn't bother me. I am at a comfortable place with it. The "inconvenience" of it is gone now that she can rely on something else. I don't mean inconvenience like I felt that it was a burden to me, I just mean that it's easier to go places and stick to a certain schedule. I will by an electric pump for #2...that way I can stock up on the frozen stuff. Then, once I ween off the boob, I can still offer breast milk for some time afterwards. Anyway, we're almost done. Now we're moving on to formula and solids more often.

I'm going to be making all of her food. It's really simple and highly cost effective. Plus it makes me feel a little more accomplished :) Sweet potato's were a cinch, next we are going to do avocado, then onto squash. She gobbled down the sweet potato, so I'm really hoping that's not what upset her tummy. We shall try again this afternoon.

I guess that's really all. I will try to be better about blogging it up, just so many things to do and so little time!!

Winning the war...for now.

Every day is a struggle, but I'm hangin in there. I weighed in today...I knew weighing in Tuesday was a waste since I ate like poo this weekend. I didn't do horrible, but I could have made better choices. I did get to try Fondue for the first time, so that was pretty sweet. Anyway. Here it is:

weight - 161 = down 3 lbs
L upper arm - 11.25" = same
R upper arm - 11.25" = down 1/4"
bust - 38" (you KNOW those are shrinkin) = same
waist - 30" = down 1"
hips - 37.5" = down 1/2"
I'm not sure what this is called, but I wrapped the tape measure around my butt and got - 40" = same
L thigh - 23.5" = same
R thigh - 23.5" = same
L calve - 14.5" = same
R calve - 14.5" = grew 1/2"

So, down 3 lbs and 2.25". I'm happy. I do wish I wouldn't have indulged so much Fri - Sun. I probably would have lost 2 more pounds and then I would be back in the 150's! Too bad, so sad.

Moving on...someone asked me a question the other day, and actually, people ask me this all of the time.

"So, can you even remember life before you had Hallie in it?"

Basically suggesting that before children life is pointless, and I'm supposed to just forget how much FUN it was. I can definitely remember what life was like before her, and when I say that, they look at me like I must not love my child.

Anyway, I just think it's a stupid question. I don't miss life before her and I certainly am much more fulfilled now, but you don't just forget a lifetime of memories because you became a parent.

So, speaking of baby...



My girl is sitting up all on her own now. For longer and longer periods of time. She's so sweet, she just sits there and squeals at her toys. She LOVES to talk, and I love to listen. I'm going to wait about another month or so, then take her to the agency, maybe sooner than that if she really gets the sitting up thing in check. She is absolutely the most beautiful baby I have ever seen! I know I'm bias but seriously, look at her. Hehehe, proud momma I am.

Craft business is coming along. I've been putting so much of myself into Hallie & working out & maintaining a home...I haven't really found a lot of time to complete all of my projects. I'm gettin there though, slow and steady wins the race.

I made an awesome dinner last night. Here's the recipe :)

Ham & Bean Soup with Creamed Cornbread
Serves: 8
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 2 hrs

Ingredients:

2 small onions (chopped)
6 fresh white mushrooms (sliced)
1 T parsley
1 t cayenne pepper
1 lb bag of dry great northern beans
1/2 pound of ham (cubed)
1/2 C brown sugar
dash of salt
dash of pepper

Instructions:

Soak beans in cold water for 8 hours. Drain and rinse. Combine all ingredients in a pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil for 15 minutes, turn to med-low heat and let simmer for 2 hours, stirring frequently. Add water when necessary.

Creamed Cornbread
Makes 12 Muffins
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes

Ingredients:

1 box Jiffy cornbread mix (you will need 1 egg and 1/4 cup milk - I modified the milk amount to less than the box directions call for. The creamed corn changes the consistency enough that you don't need so much milk.)
1 can creamed corn

Instructions:

Mix prepared Jiffy batter with the can of cream corn. Pour into greased muffin tin, distributing all the mix evenly until it's gone. Bake at oven temperature and time stated on the Jiffy box.

Truckin Along

So the title says it all. I'm just over here truckin along!

First and foremost, I did weigh in and measure on Tuesday. just haven't had the chance to sit down and blog. So here are my results:

weight - 164 = down 4 lbs
L upper arm - 11.25" = down 3/4"
R upper arm - 11.5" = down 1/2"
bust - 38" (you KNOW those are shrinkin) = down 2"
waist - 31" = down 2"
hips - 38" = down 1"
I'm not sure what this is called, but I wrapped the tape measure around my butt and got - 40" = same
L thigh - 23.5" = down 1/2"
R thigh - 23.5" = down 1/2"
L calve - 14.5" = grew 1/2"
R calve - 14" = same

So overall I am very happy!! It really helps to keep the motivation up when you see results like that. I've never felt better and I'm looking forward to shedding the rest of this baggage!

My food choices have been excellent and I've only had 3 sodas in almost 2 weeks!! That's big for me because I am addicted to sugary soda, I love that stuff. I don't care if it is fat in a can, it's good. I've stayed away from sweets, but I do have a great substitute recipe for a sweet treat without the calories! While it's been tough, it's well worth it.

I've found that taking classes are what works best for me. I enjoy going to them, there is someone to guide me, other people that motivate me to not give up, and I really feel like I'm getting a lot out of it physically! So far I've taken the following:

Turbo-Kick - Choreographed excersize routine...and it's hard!

Muscle Works - You work every part of your body in this class...I was the most sore from this one.

Mixed Level Yoga - I love this class...it's a great stretch and a relaxing environment.

Yogafit - This is a more intense yoga class...feels great to be working on my core strength again!!

Total Body Sculpt - this is a very muscle concentrated class based on slow controlled movements. You feel the BURN in this class.

Of all of them I enjoy yoga the most. I have a new love for it, mostly because its so relaxing! I feel like the weight of the world has been lifted from my shoulders when I leave. Aaaaahhhhhhhhhhh...

So anyhow, I'm doing good.



My Creative mind...



That's the banner for my Esty store! I'm really moving forward with this craft business thing, and I'm very excited about it! It's a slow process, because I have sooooo much to cover. Not to mention the overload I have of ideas in my brain just waiting to be translated into pieces of cuteness!!

I need to sit down and make a list of everything I need to do. It's time to get organized! So, in the interem - check out my stuff!!

You can find me on Etsy here:

www.etsy.com/shop/dingmommy

Friend me on Facebook here:

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001042945100&ref=profile


I'm also starting a blog where I will run specials and do giveaways and fun things like that!! Stay tuned in on the Jack & Jill Craft Mill!


Mommy Mode...

Hallie has been very clingy lately. Her naps are short, and not very often. Makes it difficult to get things done. I'm attributing this behavoir to teething...I hope it eases up soon. She's still very happy, but you literally have to be entertaining her every second. I'm hoping once she masters sitting up, she'll be a little more able to entertain herself with toys and such. Until then...I guess it's the Wacky Mommy Show :)

BabyRhyme and Sign class was...well...interesting. We sang two songs and learned how to sign them. Then had "reading time" where they threw a bucket of books in the middle of the floor and each parent read to their own child. Followed "toy" time, where you grab a toy and play with your child. Ending the class with a bubble blower and 20 kids running around going nuts trying to pop them.

I guess it was just less involved than I would have liked. Either way, they gave me an awesome packet with tons of signs so I can teach her on my own as well. Even if she doesn't get much out of it signing wise, she is at least catching a good amount of socialization.

Now that she is rolling both ways, sleeping has certainly been challenging. Well, she is still sleeping fine, but on her tummy! So I am a hot mess in the other room wondering if she's soffocating herself. I try to turn her over and as soon as I take my hands away...right back to the tummy. I haven't figured out a solution for this, and I'm not sure that there is one.

Oh, and she is the most beautiful thing on the planet!



Chocolatey Pumkin Treats
Makes about 2 dozen
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25-30 minutes

Ingredients:

1 29oz can of pumpkin
1 box devils food cake mix
light whipped cream

Preheat oven to 425* line a muffin tin - you can use non-stick spray but I reccommend muffin cups as these are a little sticky.

Mix can of pumpkin and devils food cake mix together and fill the muffin cups about 3/4 of the way full. Pop in the oven for 25-30 minutes.

When a toothpick comes out of the center of the muffin mostly clean, they are done. Let cool then top with a dollop of light whipped cream!! DELISH :)

Buh-bye baby blues!

I don't think that I had PPD by any means, but I was definitely down in the dumps for a month or so. Not so much about how I felt about Hallie, though there were a couple of days where I asked myself "what in the hell were you thinking?". I just felt like ick, blah, ugh, yuck...you know...GROSS.

Working out and crafting has absolutely helped lift my spirits and bring me back to my old peppy personality. I really feel like I'm getting my life back in order. While it will never be quite the same...it will be orderly again.

I think for anyone the following things are imperative.

1) Take care of yourself.

Try to shower first thing in the morning & get your "beauty" routine in. I found myself showering, but just pulling my hair back and not even looking at my makeup. Well, that's going to stop. It's important for me to feel good on the outside.

2) Find a release.

Whether it's working out, crafting, reading, walking, whatever...MAKE time for it. If you completely throw yourself into your child, you will totally forget about your needs.

3) Spend alone time with your partner

I know it's hard to leave your baby, but it's essential that you maintain a healthy relationship with your other half. SEX is especially crucial. It is so easy to just go to sleep at the end of the day and put it on the back burner, but men have needs...NEWS FLASH...so do we! It's pleasure and a workout all in one!

4) Don't over schedule yourself

No one is super mom, I don't care if you think you are...you're NOT. Take your time, slow down, enjoy the little things. If you miss a class or a group b/c you are running late, or you just don't feel like it...that's OK! Sometimes the best thing you can do is take a day off and let your hair down.

5) Take a mommy day

Leave the baby with dad and take a day to yourself. Do whatever you enjoy, and do just that...ENJOY yourself. Trust me, you need it.

6) Keep a clean home

I know that for me personally, if my house is a mess...my life is a mess. This may not be true for everyone, but for me a clean house and a clear mind go hand in hand.

I'm sure there are many more things that I will figure out along the way, but those are my suggestions from my five months of experience. Life can only get better from here, and I'm the only one who decides just how awesome it can be.

Bloggy Blah

Diet day #3 and so far all is a success. I did cave yesterday at the in-laws and have five M&M's. Totally worth it. Other than that my food choices have been good! My lunch today...



If it looks pretty it tastes better...or ummm, more entertaining to eat? I got about half way through with ease, then I was over it. I did manage to get it all down. Other meals have been: turkey burgers with asian sauce, pesto chicken pita pizza, chicken stir fry, english muffin w/ peanut butter, rasin bran, fruit and all that jazz. All in all it really hasn't been too bad! I still manage to make things tasty. Zach has been impressed...and usually he turns his nose up at healthy stuff.

I've been to the gym everyday, including Tuesday. Tomorrow I have a "turbo kick" class at 10:45 am, which I'm sure will "turbo kick" my hiney! My muscles are very sore, which means I'm doing it right! If it doesn't hurt, it's not working. I think it really helps that I have to reserve a spot for Hallie in the nursery. Then I am committed to a time to be there, so it's already planned into my day!

So, anyway. Enough about that.

On the mommy front...

Hallie is cutting her first tooth. Totally explains why she's been a drama queen lately. I can't believe it. I really didn't expect it so soon. She is changing so much and learning new things everyday! She's a pro at rolling over both ways now, she can push all the way up on her hands and lock her arms, she's started to try the army crawl, and now she has a tooth! My little girl is growing up. On the up side, she'll be able to wipe her own butt one day...that I can look forward to.

Tuesday brings the start of a new class, Baby Rhyme and Sign at the local public library. This should be interesting, I'm pretty stoked about it. Hopefully she will cooperate and enjoy it. She's so easily distracted by other babies. She finds them very intriguing. I wonder if they really do speak their own language...like in that one movie with John Travolta and Kirstie Ally.

BFing is just about done...one more month. I am ready to have my body back and Hallie isn't really into nursing anymore. She much prefers a bottle to the boob now, and I am totally ok with it. I will miss our "special bonding time", but since I spend every second of every day with her, I think we'll both be just fine. When she turns six months, maybe a little earlier, she'll start veggies. I can't wait to see the look on her face. I could, however, do without the mess.

Well, intended on writing more...but I am about to fall over on the keyboard. Goodnight.

Body By Baby

So today is d-day, as in diet day. I've been good so far, but it's only 5:05 pm...pray for me. Ha. So as I said I would, here are my before photos, weight & measurements.








weight - 168
L upper arm - 12"
R upper arm - 12"
bust - 40" (you KNOW those are shrinkin)
waist - 33"
hips - 39"
I'm not sure what this is called, but I wrapped the tape measure around my butt and got - 40"
L thigh - 24.5"
R thigh - 24.5"
L calve - 14"
R calve - 14"

My goal weight is 135...my plan is to weigh and measure once a week. If that frustrates me too much, then I'll just do every two weeks.

So this morning I went to the gym, then met up with mom for my birthday present...the new Reebok Easy Tone kicks! Yup, that's correct...I totally bought into the whole tone your legs and butt thing. The commercial got me...I used to have legs for days and a nice firm rump. I want it again, so congratulations Reebok marketing team, you roped me in with your sexy dancing girls advertisememnt.

I don't really have a plan, just to watch "what" & how much of "what" I put in my mouth, work out regularly, and make healthier decisions in general.

I'm craving pepsi and chocolate. This already sucks!

Home is where the heart is...

So I arrived in Kentucky this past Thursday to bring Hallie home for her first visit!

She did excellent on the flight, so I was pretty stoked about that. I've always been the one to roll my eyes and be overly annoyed at a screaming baby on an air plane, so I just assumed I was going to be taught a lesson for my previous impatience. I must have been in God's good graces, because she was a flying pro!

Most everyone was anxious to get their hands on my little squirt, so almost as soon as I turned my phone on I was bombarded with phone calls and text messages. I made it very clear that I wouldn't be making any plans, other than the family get together. All of this upheaval can be hard on an infant and I only want to drag her out and about when she seems ready and willing! So far everyone has been very understanding and for that I'm thankful!

Being here really makes me want to move back. I love Florida but Hallie has tons of family here! There we only have my mom, his dad and step-mom and his grandma. Mom moved out to the beach which is a pretty good drive for us, so we won't be seeing her as often. Zach's father just retired and they will be buying a camper and traveling most of the time, and his grandma is elderly and also lives a good distance away from us...so we don't see her on a regular basis either. I don't know, just sort of makes my heart hurt keeping her away from all of the love my family has to offer.

Doesn't matter anyhow, Zach's career is what keeps us going and it's in Florida. I'll just have to make frequent trips up this way so she can always know a part of her mother's roots.

My Mommy Must Haves

**In No Particular Order**

1. Comfy & Inexpensive Nursing Bras

http://www.walmart.com/ip/Bestform-Sport-Nursing-Bra-Style-B388/5026122

I used the cheapies from Wally World and they have been great to me.

2. Lansinoh Diaper Rash Cream

http://www.babiestravellite.com/mm5/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Product_Code=LDRO&Category_Code=DCL-Toddler-Bundle-Diaper-Cream&Store_Code=BTL

Hallie has never had more than one tiny bump on her bottom and as soon as I put this cream on, it's gone! I like how it goes on smooth and not like a paste.

3. Lansinoh Disposable Nursing Pads

http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2574820

I tried using Gerber reusables but they just didn't work for me. I've never leaked through these pads, and trust me...my milk is quite abundant.

4. Moby Wrap

http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3627715

I started using my wrap when her head control was good. She loves it and so do I. The Moby molds to both you and your baby for perfect comfort.

5. Microwave Bottle Sterilizer

http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2970576

Add 7oz of water and pop in the microwave for 8 minutes. BAM you're done, bottles are sterile and ready to go!

6. Pampers Diapers & Sensitive Wipes

http://www.walmart.com/ip/Pampers-Swaddlers-Diapers-with-DRY-MAX-sizes-Newborn-1-1-2-and-Bonus-Travel-Pouch/14053198

http://www.walmart.com/ip/Pampers-Sensitive-Baby-Wipes-Tub-and-Refill-Bundle/12380432

I am a huge fan of pampers, they work for us. Hallie is long and skinny and they accommodate her shape very well. She still has blow outs, but I think that would happen from time to time in any diaper. When you move into size 2 it's a better deal to buy the large box of Baby Dry (96ct) rather than Swaddlers (84ct).

7. Pacifier Wipes

http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3504391

These are awesome, just wipe and then the paci is sanitized!

8. Quality Diaper Bag

http://cgi.ebay.com/COLE-HAAN-KYLE-BLACK-NYLON-DIAPER-BABY-BAG-NWT-350-/370358855216?cmd=ViewItem&pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item563b1ba630

I chose a Cole Haan Bag. It has tons of space and came with a changing pad. It's basic black and goes with everything. Money spent on a good diaper bag is well invested.

9. OxiClean Free

http://www.drugstore.com/products/prod.asp?pid=195604&catid=157185&aid=337953&aparam=oxiclean_versatile_stain&CAWELAID=220130589

I keep a bucket with oxiclean and water sitting on top of my dryer, and I change the water every 3/4 days. Hallie has no stains!

10. Zip Up Sleep Sacks

https://www.halosleep.com/products/detail/19/100_organic_cotton_sleepsack_wearable_blanket/39/100_organic_cotton_sleepsack_wearable_blanket_/

These are great! You know the baby is warm and they make for an easy diaper change in the middle of the night!

11. Milk Bank Bottles

http://milkbank.com/

Same concept as Dr. Brown, but less expensive, easier to clean, and they're cute! They also make a vacuum storage system for BFing moms!

12. Lansinoh Milk Storage Bags

http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2967914

These are convenient when you are at work, or on the go and need to pump.

13. Munchkin Suction Bowls

http://www.drugstore.com/products/prod.asp?pid=95239&catid=154451&aid=337953&aparam=munchkin_stay_put_suctio&CAWELAID=61283424

You do have to push them down pretty often, but it reduces the chances that cereal & veggies will be plastered all over you wall!

14. Formula Dispenser

http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3898868

Keeps it pre-measured and saves space in your bag!

15. LARGE Bibs!

http://www.mum2mum.us/wonderbibs_plain.htm

Babies are messy when they first start solids...tarps are preferable.

16. Good Breast Pump

http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2409078

I bought a Medela Manual Pump and it worked great for me. If you have to go back to work, I recommend an electric pump.

17. Nursing Gowns

http://www.walmart.com/ip/Bestform-Maternity-Nursing-Gown/10843545

Great for the hospital and home. LOVE these!

18. Organic Crib Mattress Pad

http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2304185

The mattresses are all pretty hard and this gives it a nice soft feeling!

19. Boppy Pillow

http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2584005

These things are lifesavers. For many reasons.

20. Dishwasher Basket

http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=2969609

Keeps all your bottle parts in one spot through the wash!

The "heavy" on baby weight...

It sucks! So, yeah, losing baby weight is tough.

Even if you lose the weight quickly, your body is still out of whack. I've felt like I've been in a foreign body for the past four months, and I'm not seeing the light at the end of the tunnel.

I need some serious motivation, so I am going to do possibly the boldest thing I have ever done. I am going to take a picture of myself in a bikini and post it here, for all of you to see. I'll be taking all of my measurements and weighing in weekly. If I feel like I have "someone" to answer to, I'm much more likely to stick to my diet and exercise plan.

I'm going on vacation at the end of this week. I'd blow it the first day if I even attempted dieting while vacationing. You don't go to Kentucky and not stuff yourself with yummy southern cookin' done by family! The sweet tea is calling my name!

So, when I get back it's time to get serious! I want to be 135/140lbs by my three year wedding anniversary on October 20, 2010. I think I can, I think I can...

The Rice Cereal Diaries

It's official! My baby has started "solids". We did our first go round with rice cereal yesterday! She didn't do so great the first time, after a couple of bites she was completely annoyed and over it. Later on in the evening I decided to try again. This time was much different! She was slurping it down like a pro! She still didn't make it through the entire bowl, but she made progress.



The weekend was full of fun events...

Friday we finished pictures. Unfortunately, again she wasn't exactly cooperative. We got most of what we needed, so I was pleased. I'm a little concerned with how this "baby modeling" is going to fly with her. I fully intend on taking her to an agency as soon as she's old enough. Can't hurt to try!

Saturday was the first "Chili Cook Off" I've ever been to. It was ummm, ok. The cost was $10 per person which was for charity, so I was ok with it. Half of the stands were empty because they "didn't expect so many people" and had run out of chili. The booth's that did still have chili, I wasn't impressed with. I definitely expected to be wowed by the variety of flavors, but instead was let down. I think I'll start working on my on my own chili recipe now and enter myself next year...

Sunday was a do absolutely nothing and enjoy every second of it day. Did make a yummy dinner inspired by my Step-Mom-In-Law Pat! Here's the recipe for the taking. You could do this with any meat, I chose ground sirloin.

BBQ Beef Croissants
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes

Ingredients:

1 can of your favorite croissants
1 lb ground sirloin
2 T garlic
1 medium chopped onion
1 C favorite BBQ sauce
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
dash of salt
dash of pepper
1 T hot sauce
1 C shredded cheddar cheese
non-stick spray/butter

Directions:

Pre-heat oven to temperature listed on the croissant can (typically 375*-400*). Spray/grease 12ct muffin tin and set aside.

In a medium pan brown ground beef with the chopped onion, garlic, hot sauce, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Strain off excess grease once the meat is done browning. Return to pan and turn heat to low. Add bbq sauce and let simmer for 10 minutes.

While the meat is browning and simmering in bbq sauce, you will line your muffin tins with the croissants. There's no art to it, just try to fold, stretch and mold until the cup is covered and there is a little "crust" coming out of the top. Once your croissants are in place, evenly distribute 1/2 C of the shredded cheese in the bottom of each one. When the meat is done simmering in the bbq sauce, fill up each of the croissants. Top with remaining cheese and bake for 15 minutes or until croissant crust is a golden brown. Enjoy!

Some unmotivated motivaton...

So, I often get into this way of thinking. Probably doesn't make much sense, unmotivated motivation. For me, it's my Mt. Everest. I have the desire to do soooooo much, but I it's tough to find the time, or the will. So I've found that by taking baby steps, I am slowly becoming the wife/mother/person that I want to be. I know I'll never be perfect, but it doesn't hurt to try to be the best at the things I can do.

1.God

My family would be very disappointed in me for this one. I have really let my relationship with God fall short for several years now. This is currently the biggest thing that we as a family (Z & I) have to work on. While we have never stopped believing or praying, we need to put more time and effort into church and loving the Lord.

2. Finances

This matter, I believe is very important in the success of any marriage. I know that personally, in our marriage; money is the cause of quite few arguments. It's important to stay on a budget and work on saving for the long term and setting your life up to succeed. I have grown multitudes in my financial responsibility, it hit me when I got pregnant that it wasn't just about me anymore. Since then I've strive to not over spend and save on the things we do buy. We're not quite where we'd like to be, but we're close and I'm so thankful for that.

3. The Person

Who do I want to be? Me. The greatest version of ME that I can be.

I want to be the wife that a husband can come home to and hold in his arms and thank God for.

I want to be the homemaker that is an amazing cook, who is incredibly crafty and keeps her home spotless and perfectly decorated.

I want to be the mother that packs her child's lunch everyday and leaves a sweet note inside. The mom who takes her kids to school and picks them up ever day. Who hosts loads of children for a sleepover and plans a fun night of games and crafts and yummy food. Who goes to every practice, game, recital, talent show. Who's children will always feel like they can come to her, trust her, rely on her...for anything at anytime.

I want to be the friend that is always completely supportive and non-judgemental. Who you know that no matter the time, will answer the phone or open the door. Someone that you can count on, through good or bad, thick and thin.

Most importantly, I want to be a woman of God. Who radiates His spirit and thinks with his mind, loves with his heart, listens with his ear and sees through his eyes.

3. Philanthropist

We don't my any means have a lot of money. I do however feel that we have enough to give a little back. I want to make the effort to tithe properly and find other organizations that are close to our hearts. To give our time as well as our money, to help where it's needed.

4. Image

I love to feel put together, at all times. Somehow it triggers contentment, and I absolutely radiate confidence. I will devise a plan that somehow includes:

- A mani and pedi weekly, done by myself.

- My own take on a facial should also be a weekly occurrence.

- Hair done every 8 weeks, no exceptions.

- Gym five days a week (haha, yeah right...maybe 3).

I must pull through this post pregnancy "yuck" phase and get back to my old self.

5. Success

I want to be something. A wife and mother, always and first. Eventually though, I will have to work again, so it would be nice to have a plan. I really have to do some soul searching here. For now I will work on mastering my crafts and try to sell those.


Finally, brothers, good-by. Aim for perfection, listen to my appeal, be of one mind, live in peace. And the God of love and peace will be with you. 2 Corinthians 13:11

The Picture Saga Continues...

We will attempt to complete the photo shoot in a few short hours! We don't have very many more shots to capture, so hopefully she will be a little peach and stick it out. I mean, I would probably be annoyed too if someone stuck bunny ears on me and shoved me in a basket! Not to mention the tutu, constant outfit and hairbow changes. I can only hope that in years to come she will thank me for this. Here is a shot of us from last week's shoot...



Photo taken by Jeni Rzonca at Vanity Studios. Check out her website at www.vanitypics.com, or her blog at vanitypics.blogspot.com :)

Title Schmitle!

I don't have a title for this blog, yo! Just too many things to cover to give it a specific name! I'm trying to be better about this whole blogging effort...my computer is really a POS and making it hard! Alas, I have finally logged on and the time to update has come!

Family pictures took place this past Saturday. Yay. Ummmm, not. The first half of the shoot was fantastic. Hallie was perfect and relaxed, then she went into a major melt down from which she never recovered. Partially my fault, because I couldn't handle the stress and I totally let it get to me. I love our photographer, she is so patient and understood. We will be finishing the remainder of the shoot sometime soon. Her web site is www.vanitypics.com, check her out, she rocks and has great prices!

Easter has passed, and it was a wonderful Sunday. I am very disappointed in myself, we didn't go to church. We slept until 11:30 a.m., Hallie included. I really wish Hallie would have spent her first Easter Sunday in a religious environment...but what are you gonna do? I'll just make sure next year she is in a church! Here is a photo of us on the beach taking her first "beach walk", she LOVED it!!



We spent the morning with Z. When he had to go to work, we headed off to my mom's new place on the beach. It's very cute! Small, but perfect for her. I'm a little sad that she is over an hour away now, but it's what she wants...and if it makes her a happier person, I'm all about it.

Halli had her four month check up on Monday. She weighed in at 13lbs 9oz and was 25in tall. Doc says all is well, so I'm with him. She was a trooper with her shots! Fussed pretty fiercely for a few minutes, then once I calmed her and nursed her, all was well in the world of Hallie. She didn't run a fever and no Tylenol was necessary. Just three small bruises at the injection sites.

I attend a "mommy & baby group" on Wednesdays at the hospital where I gave birth. I REALLY enjoy it. I have only met one person who I feel I have a lot in common with, so hopefully that relationship will grow. She also has a little girl who is roughly a month older than Hallie. They "played" together is week and it was soooooo cute! It's nice to be able to get out of the house and socialize with other women who are experiencing the same things that I am. Thank you, Sarasota Memorial Hospital.

Oh, how could I have forgotten...PUKE a.k.a DUKE won the NCAA National Championship title. How horrible, I was routing for Butler. Oh well, hope they enjoy it cause KENTUCKY is taking it next year!

Dinner tonight is Chicken Tortilla Soup...I'll leave you with the recipe!

Chicken Tortilla Soup
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 1 Hour
Cook Time: 1 Hour

2 lbs chicken (I use bone-in, skin-on, as usual)
1 green bell pepper (medium chop)
1 red bell pepper (medium chop)
2 medium onions (chopped)
4.5 T chopped garlic
5 C chicken broth
1 t red pepper flakes
vegetable oil (I measure by eye)
1/2 t cumin (ground)
6 white corn tortillas (cut into strips)
1/4 cup cilantro
2 t oregano
2 t white pepper
Shredded Cheese (amount is to your liking)

Directions:

First begin with the chicken. Place chicken in large pot and cover with water. Add 3 T chopped garlic, oregano, white pepper, cilantro, 1/4 of chopped onions, 1/4 red bell pepper and 1/4 green bell pepper.

While chicken is cooking, saute remaining onion, red bell pepper, and green bell pepper with red pepper flakes in vegetable oil, until veggies become limp. Set aside.

Once chicken is cooked, remove chicken and transfer to cutting board. Strain the veggies from the broth and shred chicken.

In the pot which you cooked the chicken, return shredded chicken, strained veggies, sauteed veggies, cumin, chicken broth and remainder of chopped garlic. Bring to a boil for 5 minutes, then turn to simmer.

While this is simmering and the flavors are melding, you will fry the tortilla strips. Pour oil into a separate pan and bring to appropriate heat (I know it's ready when I flick water into the oil and it pops). Fry tortilla strips to a golden brown.

Pour soup into a bowl, top with shredded cheese and fried tortilla strip and ENJOY :)

&*%$#@**!^%@$#^&*

The title describes how I feel about Kentucky losing to West Virginia last night. I don't want to talk about it anymore. That was my big vent. Next season guys, next season.

Onto bigger and better things! Hallie had her first trip to the fair last night. You know, growing up in Kentucky I attended the county fair every year. It was the most exciting thing that came to our town. Somehow, I don't seem to recall it overflowing with the most disgusting people you could possibly encounter in one place. Ummmm, gross. I don't mean to sound stuck up, because I really don't live on a high horse or think that I am better than anyone. But I do shower daily, and I don't let my rolls hang out everywhere, and I have all of my teeth.

I think my favorite part about the fair is the FOOD! I probably ate about 5,000 calories last night, and I don't care! I indulged in a cheese steak sandwich, fried mushrooms, a deep fried SNICKERS (possibly the best thing I've ever put in my mouth) and a large coke! Oh yuuuummmmmm it was all soooooo good! Here is our family fair picture!



Time to wake the husband up and cook some breakfast! This is the first time he's had an entire weekend off in ages, and I love it!!

Time to Catch Up!

So I just realized I have have been straight slackin in my blog pimpin!! This is what happened the first time I started a blog and I just let it go! No, not this time Mr. Procrastination! I shall defeat you!

So, lets see here...what have I missed...

St. Patricks Day! I have a "mommy & baby" group that I attend on Wednesday's and it just so happened to be St. Patty's day, so we got all dolled up in our green and went to show off our cuteness..that's right. I said it "our" cuteness. I am starting to feel like my old self again, even if my body is completely wrecked. It's slowly going back to it's former shape...though it will never be quite the same. Anyway, here is a picture of us in all of our festive glory!



We also stopped by my mother's office so all the women could oooooooo and awwwwwwww over Hallie. I just love that.

Next was to Nana and Pappy's (Zach's dad and step-mom), it was Pat's birthday and she cooked US corned beef and cabbage! It sure was yummy and fitting for the day! Here is a picture of Nana Pat and Hallie!



Hallie got her ears pierced! I did it now so she doesn't ever have to remember the pain and there is no hair to get all twisted up in the posts and infected (like mine did when I had them done at 8 years old). She was a trooper let me tell you - very few tears! Me, uhhhh - not so much. I cried like the big weenie I am. They look adorable! I just love this picture! "Ummmm, what is goin on here?"



I've been channeling my inner creativity and been putting it to use. I gotta say, I'm feeling it!! I've made about 25 bows and crafted a UK onesie for Hallie! I have tons of ribbon I still haven't used, so lots more unique bows to come. As soon as I find time, I'm planning on listing on Etsy! I'll post the link once I've got everything up and running. Even if it's just a little extra income, it will help! Here is preview shot.



My husband is never home. I can't complain because this is what I wanted, to stay home with my baby girl. He is doing what he has to do, to make his career flourish. I miss him, but I look to the future when we have more children and are still able to live the lifestyle we want, without having to worry about money! I am proud of him, he is such a good man, husband and father. God has been good to me.

Easter is near and we are having Hallie's photo's done in her Easter dress and various other outfits! I can't wait, she is so beautiful...how did I ever get so lucky? One year ago today, I found out that I was pregnant. I can still remember the joy that flowed through my body and the tears running down my cheeks as I stared at the test. I thank God for her constantly, she is such a blessing.

I suppose that's all for now! I'll leave you with my recipe for "chicken-n-dumplins", since I have been munching on a bowl while updating this blog!

Chicken-N-Dumplins
Serves: 4
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 1.5 hours

Ingredients:

4 chicken breasts (I use 2 split, bone in, skin on to save money and add flavor to the stock)
2 medium onions (roughly chopped) Tip - organic onions are not much more expensive and stay good longer, taste yummy, and are better for you!
3 carrots (peeled and sliced)
4 celery stocks (slice at preferred thickness)
2 T garlic
2 chicken bouillon cubes
2 T poultry seasoning
2 bay leaves
dash of salt
dash of pepper
1/2 t crushed red pepper (more if you like it spicy)
1 can of your favorite biscuits (I like to use Pillsbury Honey Layers)

Directions:

Place chicken in large pot and cover with water (chicken can be frozen or thawed). Bring to a boil and stir in garlic, bouillon cubes, poultry seasoning, bay leaves, salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper. Turn to medium heat and let cook for 45 minutes.

Remove chicken from pot and transfer to cutting board, shred or chop chicken (your preference). If you are using split breast with bone in, skin on - remove skin and bones. Place chicken back into pot and add with it, the carrots, celery and onion. Turn heat to medium-high and let cook for 25 minutes.

Using kitchen shears (or whatever scissors you have on hand) cut biscuits into bite size pieces, letting them fall into the pot as you cut them. Bring to a boil for 5 minutes then turn down to the low and let simmer for 15 minutes! Enjoy!

The tales of the BOOBY MONSTER

What exactly is a booby monster you say?!



That my friends, is a booby monster at her finest! God bless her little heart, all she wants is the boob. How am I ever going to ween this child? Let's be honest here, breastfeeding SUCKS. Don't get me wrong, I do enjoy the bonding experience, but I am a prisoner to my hooters! It also doesn't help that they are completely manic. They can't decide if they want to be overly full or completely empty. I'm three point five months in and I'm planning on going until six months when she starts solids. That's acceptable, right? I mean, it would be different if I could pump, but because I have over-supply issues, I simply can't! Whenever I pump I'm in constant pain and my tata's get hard enough to crack an egg on (for real). Haha, I just re-read the line about over-supply "issues", even my boobs have issues. Story of my life.

I will say that it has become much easier as she's gotten older. I no longer have to time how long she nurses on each side, she's done when she's done! I'm much more comfortable nursing in public, so long as I have my cover. I use fewer nursing pads now that my supply has evened out. Side note - don't ever invest in reusable pads, Lansinoh disposables rock my world! Moving on, my nipples aren't sore and I've learned to quickly unsnap my nursing bras. Another side note - Wal-Mart has great, cheap nursing bras!

All in all what's good for the goose is good for the gander, I lose weight faster and my baby gets the best thing she can nutrition wise! End of story.

This is me - take it or leave it!

Hmmmm, guess I'll try out this blog thing one more time. I thought I'd be super productive while I was pregnant and blog daily to keep my family and friends updated. Yeah, that didn't work out so well. Turns out pregnancy just isn't that interesting, well not mine anyway. So now that I have a newborn and a million more things to squeeze into my day...might as well give myself something else to do.

I'm Jillien, I'm 25 (soon to be 26) and I live in the great sunshine state of Florida. Originally from Kentucky, I moved here at 18 with my mother who had recently retired. Imagine that, a retiree moving to Florida to live out her "golden years", HA. I met a great guy shortly after moving here, and the last 7 or so years have been filled with our "on again & off again" relationship adventures. Turns out he loved me the whole time, and finally proposed after dragging me along for roughly five years of drama. We've been married for almost three years now and we have a beautiful baby girl, and I've noticed, the drama never ends...just can't run away from it anymore. So, here I am, this is me - take it or leave it!