tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-68524565702766840192024-03-13T10:48:39.168-05:00The Long and Winding RoadAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08854850029894708981noreply@blogger.comBlogger335125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6852456570276684019.post-23142115705142067922015-06-29T08:59:00.000-05:002015-06-29T09:02:18.693-05:00And that's a wrap.....Well, keeping up with the blog during show season clearly didn't work out. Grad school has kept me on my toes along with teaching fitness classes part time plus training & life. But, I thought I'd do an update to record my progress. I share pics a LOT on <a href="https://instagram.com/heatherlynnbickers/" target="_blank">Instagram</a> and <a href="https://www.facebook.com/heather.h.bickers" target="_blank">Facebook</a> but not everyone is connected with me there. (click the links to do that!!)<br />
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It's been a great season! My first show was in April, second in May & the final one of the season was this past weekend. Each show brought a new physique & I continued to make improvements each time. My second show was smaller & I placed 4th in Masters 40+ so that was fun! <br />
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But now to the important stuff. My transformation over the last year (that's what people really want to see!) I started in April with Lori Harder's program & it got me back into weight training again. After doing that for a few months, I jumped on board with Team Best Fit Body. With their guidance, I got to where I was mid-June. I am forever grateful & the flexible dieting has been a godsend for me. I feel in control of my diet. I never feel insane cravings or the feeling that if I don't eat all of something right now the aliens will steal it overnight. (lol)<br />
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The piece of my puzzle that has always been missing is finding a local coach. I have all but once worked with coaches in the Boston area. My first ever fitness team was Cathy Savage Fitness & I will forever be grateful for that start. I have SO many dear friends through that team. One of whom even traveled to Chicago for my second show! Talk about bestie for life!!!! Tidbit: we met at Camp Savage in 2007 & have stayed close since! Sometimes, she probably knows more than Kevin! lol<br />
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Back to the local thing...I have been following Layne Norton for some time now & came across a local (2 hours away!) coach who is personally coached by him. I have followed her for some time now & chatted back & forth to gather more information. I followed her clients too! (sounds creepy, right?) Perhaps but you have to SEE how they are doing, what do they look like after shows, are they training well, rebounding or properly reverse dieting. Well, you know where I am going, right? They do EVERYTHING right!! They stay within a reasonable reach of their show weight, they eat to fit their macros (NO restrictions) & they look good. Because, let's be honest, in all of this, we still want to look good!<br />
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While it was a sudden transition, I started with <a href="http://alexmossbarger.com/" target="_blank">Alex</a> the week before my show this past weekend. She did my peak week which was VERY different from what I've done in the past. It was great though & I came in looking fuller than ever with none of the previous show day issues (like cramping.) I started my reverse diet yesterday as well. What is that? Well, after MONTHS of contest dieting (and it does get to low calories/fat,) it is CRUCIAL that you "back out" of that diet. You don't go from low cals to eating "normal" overnight. It's a gradual process of s-l-o-w-l-y adding back in macronutrients (protein, carbs & fat) so you don't gain a lot of bodyfat. The beauty of reversing properly is that you can start to build a bit of lean mass in the process. I will be photographing that journey for the blog too! It's fascinating to watch!!<br />
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So the past year has been a fun trip for me. I feel AMAZING & am in a very healthy, happy place now. SO different from the last time that I looked like "skeletor" & rebounded horribly (which is why I haven't competed since 2008!) I have regained my body after the miscarriages, infertility, etc that we had been dealing with since 2011 until last year when we made the decision to move on with our lives. Wwe have a wonderful life & are truly blessed with what we are able to do. And we have the doodle to keep us amused!!<br />
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Finally, the pictures. The living proof that anything you set your mind to is achievable! It was NOT an easy journey & yes I wanted to quit many times along the way. But I remember a promise that I made to my Dad when Mom died (almost 9 years ago now) & that was to always stay healthy. I'm back in a good place after things were out of my control for so long & I fully intend to stay here. <br />
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What now? I start my journey with Alex at the reigns to help me improve. I need to bring in my legs, build out my back & grow some shoulders! It's an always evolving project & I LOVE it! I like to call it my science project. I will be taking the rest of the year off for improvements & will take the figure stage again next year (probably late spring, early summer.) I am toying with the idea of physique too but really love figure so will stick with that just a little longer. I do have some loose skin that continues to tighten up so I want to give that the time it needs. AND I've been dieting since January for shows so my body/metabolism needs a reset (precisely what reverse dieting will do.)<br />
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I think that covers it for now but if you have questions, PLEASE leave a comment here or on my FB page! I will respond (either there or via blog post if it's something others want to know as well!)<br />
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And if you for any split second, are curious about shows, flexible dieting, etc, do reach out! I've actually helped several people recently get set up. I am NOT an expert but I am learning & can help guide you!!!<br />
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Thanks for sticking with me. The support has been amazing & truly keeps my fire lit! If I can do it, ANYONE can!!!!!<br />
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xo,<br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6852456570276684019"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/390/3AF3CFE823C417A82171E947490C82C7.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08854850029894708981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6852456570276684019.post-91502530756930735582015-01-21T11:58:00.002-06:002015-01-21T11:58:49.495-06:00Let's talk about......Admit it, Salt-N-Pepa just cued in your head ;) lol I always want to have stuff on this blog that people want to hear. I can babble on about anything but if you are reading, there's *something* you are looking for but I can't know what that is if you don't tell me.<br />
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So per my Facebook post, here's what you wanted to hear (in no particular order....)<br />
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1. <b><i>My workouts & how much time I spend in the gym?</i></b><br />
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Without getting into my program specifics, I will tell you that I'm training 5 days. I do body part splits meaning that I will train "parts." For example, back & biceps, chest, triceps & core, legs are even split out into glute/hamstring & quad focus. That changes every 5-6 weeks. I am doing HIIT (high interval intensity) cardio 3 times a week & have a couple smaller sessions as well. My gym sessions range from 45ish - 80ish minutes. 3 days longer, 3 shorter & one rest day. <br />
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Do I get tired? Yes. My training is hard & can be as hard or as easy as I want it. And since I want to bring my best physique, I work HARD! When I leave the gym, I'm pooped & if I had anything left to give, then I didn't work hard enough. <br />
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I am smart though. If I'm supposed to do cardio post training & am feeling too tired, I will do it after work at home. Cardio can be on machines at the gym or completed by doing circuit training (think Tabata style.)<br />
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2. <b><i>How am I feeling emotionally & physically?</i></b><br />
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Honestly, I feel AMAZING!!!!! My prep is SO different than it was before. Let me preface this with mentioning the first show I prepped for was awesome. My body was a science project & I was put on several different "types" of diets to get ready BUT I felt pretty good leading into the show. It was with the local coach that things went bad. EXTREME diet, severe water depletion & diuretics. BAD BAD BAD. I rebounded, got depressed, felt horrible...you get the picture.<br />
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Now? I truly feel good. Mentally, I have to work through training sometimes BUT I can do it & I can push a little harder every day. Physically, I'm still hitting PRs (yes, at 10 weeks out) so that makes me feel pretty awesome. I keep saying that I don't even feel like I'm dieting. Why? Flexible dieting. We are permitted (within reason..using good judgement) to eat anything we'd like as long as we fit it in our macros (specific numbers for protein, carbs & fat we are "prescribed.) So yes, I do have a piece of chocolate daily. I had some pizza on Sunday with a giant salad. The only thing I did cut out fully is alcohol (by choice.)<br />
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So yep, feeling awesome & leaning out right on track.<br />
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3. <b><i>How to start?</i></b><br />
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This is SUCH a huge topic so I will cover it another time but easy place to start? Clean out your cupboards of things that are just too tempting for you OR work on having only a portion of what you'd really like (I prefer this but if you can't do this yet, it's okay...toss it for now!)<br />
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And start moving. Go for a walk....even if it's around the house! Just move your body!!!!<br />
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4. <b><i>How is this different from the last time?</i></b><br />
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This is the BIGGEST question that I get only because so many of you witnessed the last process. The major difference is the diet. We follow a flexible diet, nothing off limits (within reason), not given a list of foods that we can choose from, etc. I eat 80% "clean" meaning unprocessed "good" choices but anything coming from a container is processed somehow (almond milk, protein powder, PB, etc.,) you get the picture so I don't focus on the "clean" eating term but just make good choices. I still use some products from a line that I've used for several years but I also use other products that help keep me at my best. <br />
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So, that's that. Did I miss something? Want more about anything specific? Let me know!!!!<br />
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6852456570276684019"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/390/3AF3CFE823C417A82171E947490C82C7.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08854850029894708981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6852456570276684019.post-12090817509723099862015-01-15T09:30:00.000-06:002015-01-15T12:11:38.402-06:00Putting it ALL out there!I've been asked for pictures so I mentioned having a Bodyspace page now because I've entered the BB.com #200ktransform contest. Well, I've not only uploaded current pictures there but also where I started last April.<br />
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Those who are close to me, know the struggles we've faced in the last few years with miscarriages, fertility struggles & such. The stress, medications, surgeries, procedures, etc, truly affected not only my mind but also my body. It was a mess. No matter what I tried, I would find a good flow then lose it again (which means re-gain some weight.) I supposed I just wasn't ready to fully let it go (cue the song.....) At any rate, last April I signed up for Lori Harder's 60 Day Transformation contest to get in a new place mentally. I also attended her Bliss Project with friends in Chicago. *enter HUUUUUUGE mental shift* Heather got her groove back!!<br />
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As that contest ended, I felt refreshed & wanted to truly start lifting again but started to feel that "stale" feeling I had. With that, I left a team that I had been a part of for a VERY long time (almost 8 years) & while it was a hard decision to make, it was the right one for me. Fast forward to a month later, signing up with Team Best Fit Body & the rest is history.<br />
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So as you look at my pictures, remember, everyone has a story, a journey if you will. And we all have to fight to get back to our good place. If I had to stop today & live where I am, that would be okay but I'm hungry for more ;)<br />
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Here's the link to my <a href="http://bodyspace.bodybuilding.com/photos-and-videos/fitness_runner" target="_blank">BodySpace Photo</a> page. Feel free to follow along! I will continue to update there as well as here!!<br />
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Note: I sat here staring at this for almost 10 minutes before hitting publish. It's hard to face reality sometimes of where you've been BUT I know that someone (who may never speak up) will see this & think "wow, I really can do this too" & that will be enough for me!!!<br />
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Live well, friends!<br />
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6852456570276684019"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/390/3AF3CFE823C417A82171E947490C82C7.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08854850029894708981noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6852456570276684019.post-38955805903075138802015-01-12T09:30:00.000-06:002015-01-12T09:30:16.455-06:0012 weeks to go!So, I'm slacking. But only in keeping this thing updated. Everything else is BANG on!!!<br />
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New protocols started last week for nutrition & cardio. New training program starts on Saturday after I wrap up the current 6 week plan. What I LOOOOOVE about the training is hitting the PRs in the last couple weeks. KB (husband) actually stopped mid-cardio so he could spot me on squats. That's support!!!<br />
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I've also found a suit that I'm in LOVE with. It's simple but flashy with stoning & connectors in the right places. And no, I won't be posting it just yet ;) In time but if you have my number, I *might* text it to you. (tease, I know.)<br />
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Last week, I was asked about prepping meals, how do I do it, do I spend hours, etc. NO WAY! I'm a fast & simple "dieter." I will cook up lean ground meat, portion out for meals & toss in cooked rice (brown or white) & frozen veggies. Bam. I will also use dinner leftovers for lunches. Prepping for show (or anything else) can be as hard or as easy as you make it. I choose easy! No, we don't have kids but we both work full-time (KB travels weekly for work) & I am in grad school so our extra time will not be spent with me in the kitchen outside of usual meals.<br />
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One other thing, I have joined the <a href="http://www.bodybuilding.com/" target="_blank">Bodybuilding.com</a> transformation challenge & will be updating stats, pics, etc over there. Feel free to find me, friend me, etc over there. My name on there is fitness_runner! Current pics are there but since I have them out there, this week I'll post current (tomorrow is check in day) with where I started with this team in June. <br />
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Happy Monday!!! Make today great & don't let anyone say you can't!!!!<br />
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6852456570276684019"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/390/3AF3CFE823C417A82171E947490C82C7.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08854850029894708981noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6852456570276684019.post-65009272997493683802015-01-05T15:31:00.002-06:002015-01-05T15:31:44.442-06:00Still there? So tell me, what do you want to know? I'll babble without suggestions too, you know but if there's something you'd like, let me know!!<br />
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More tomorrow....<br />
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6852456570276684019"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/390/3AF3CFE823C417A82171E947490C82C7.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08854850029894708981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6852456570276684019.post-21539567127585694322014-12-15T09:54:00.000-06:002014-12-15T13:35:09.750-06:00Details please!So, now that I've outted myself, it's time to get down to business. I've been asked to detail what I'm doing. My diet, my training, my "maintenance," blah blah blah. <br />
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Let's start with what I eat. Our team follows a macros based flexible diet. It's often referred to in the industry as "IIFYM" which stands for If It Fits Your Macros. What that basically means is that we eat what we want, make it fit into our numbers with 80% of our foods coming from a "clean" foods list. Bottom line? If I want a piece of dark chocolate, I can have it but it has to fit into my day. What are macros? They are specific numbers that dictate how many grams of protein, carbs & fat I can eat in a given day. <br />
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If you are interested in a jump start, you can visit our <a href="http://www.bestfitbody.com/faqs/programs/" target="_blank">Team Best Fit Body</a> & check out the 6 week nutritional program!! <br />
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Training? I currently train 6 days a week doing body part splits (ie: chest & core, back & bi's, legs x2, shoulders, core & triceps.) My cardio is only 3 days of 30 min HIIT (high intensity interval training.) We also do a fun team challenge each week that is a short HIIT style circuit training. I spend NO more than 70 minutes in the gym on any given day. The myth in this industry is that you have to spend HOURS a day in the gym. Yes, there are teams that do that but it's not necessary. If you are KILLING your workouts, making your cardio count & doing your best, that's all you need! I should add that I get all of training from my coach as well.<br />
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Maintenance? Seems like an odd thing for a competitor, doesn't it? Well, it's crucial to the process. My maintenance plan is monthly chiropractic adjustments. During these appointments, he also checks any twinges, soreness, etc that I've had. It helps that my doctor also works out at the same gym & observes my movements there. My last check-up included a comment that I'm moving well which made me mucho happy!<br />
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The other part of maintenance is taking my rest day, foam rolling DAILY (sometimes twice a day), stretching & monthly massage. I also try to fit in hot yoga once a week to help keep things loose.<br />
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How to make food prep easier? I batch cook each week for lunches....meatballs, chicken breast or tenderloins, turkey burgers, etc. So I'll portion out what I want for protein, toss in some (pre-cooked) rice & frozen veggies. Easy & fast. Snacks are fruit, protein shakes, plain greek yogurt, etc. Dinner is always what I'm making for hubby that night with a salad & I add a carb if I need to for myself (sweet potato, etc.) Breakfast (because I'm boring) is always 2 eggs, english muffin with a little bit of cheese.<br />
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I do use some supplements. I take a joint supplement, BCAA/pre-workout, multivitamin, protein powder & a greens supplement. I also take fish oils but currently they are on hold due to surgery on my hand this week (they thin your blood & can interfere with clotting.)<br />
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<b><i>Disclaimer: </i></b>my program is mine & geared for what my body needs (training.) While many of our programs are similar, they are streamlined for us & that is the same for our macros as well so you won't ever see my exact training/macro numbers.<br />
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That should cover it but as always, I'm open so if you have questions, feel free to ask & I will be happy to address them!<br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6852456570276684019"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/390/3AF3CFE823C417A82171E947490C82C7.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08854850029894708981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6852456570276684019.post-9801133919339420372014-12-11T14:54:00.002-06:002014-12-11T14:54:44.532-06:00Psst..Well, since I'm competing again. I thought it was time to dust this thing off. That & peer pressure (the good kind) has won! lol<br />
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More details shortly but as of Saturday, I'm 16 weeks out! Game on!!<br />
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6852456570276684019"><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/390/3AF3CFE823C417A82171E947490C82C7.png" style="background: transparent; border: 0 !important;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08854850029894708981noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6852456570276684019.post-19859850623612601822011-09-08T08:28:00.004-05:002011-09-08T08:50:00.974-05:00Mini-update & IsagenixI guess I lied when I said I would be back soon! ;) I am back though & making some major changes in my life. For the better, of course!<br /><br />First off, I have been enjoying a break from all things baby though every time I turn around, someone else is pregnant or telling me they are going to start trying. This week is hard since our first little one would be welcomed into the world. I don't know how others who have miscarried handle it but I just keep thing about how much life would have changed this week. Sweet baby will always be in our hearts! <br /><br />Fitness is finally back ON! I spent the whole month of July training hard, getting in my cardio & eating well but nothing seemed to change. Enter August & I decided to try something that I'd been reading about for MONTHS!<br /><br />Kevin & I are doing well. Gearing up for another Halloween adventure in Orlando. We are calling it our delayed anniversary trip ;) And yes, we will be off to Halloween Horror Nights once again! I CAN'T WAIT!! haha<br /><br />Molly is becoming quite the handful too. She's almost 27 pounds now & about 4.5 months old. We are definitely in the naughty puppy phase with her & started puppy school 2 weeks ago then were off for the holiday. But she is doing well with the skills she learned just that first night. I laugh & say I would be good too if you were bribing me with food ;) Here's a picture of her favorite sleeping position. Classy, eh? lol<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2krdV1BnpmA/TmjHe0Es0_I/AAAAAAAAAp0/lj-D-huUzYg/s1600/Molly%2Bsleeping.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 213px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2krdV1BnpmA/TmjHe0Es0_I/AAAAAAAAAp0/lj-D-huUzYg/s320/Molly%2Bsleeping.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5649985064724648946" /></a><br /><br />*enter total commercial sounding blurb*<br /><br />I decided to start using Isagenix products after seeing some friends & teammates benefit from them. They are a whole foods type supplement in the form of proteins, meal replacement, vitamin paks, non-depleting cleanses, etc. I have been using them for a month now after being stuck & have dropped 9 pounds, sleeping better, recovering faster from workouts & just feeling overall better. I had a friend decide to try them by just using the shakes & after a week she felt great. She's now using what is called the Athlete's Pak & feeling better than ever.<br /><br />Was I skeptical? Oh yes, just because someone says it's great doesn't always mean it will be. I actually figured I'd get my month's worth of stuff, not like it & cancel. I was wrong. I know there are folks who read this & think that I'm nuts (actually, I have had negative comments made both directly & I'm sure ones that I'm not aware of) but I can only say that you can only know if you try something for yourself. It's a little pricey for the products & what can be certified organic is (like the protein.) I am actually saving money at the grocery store by just replacing 2 meals a day (eating 5-6 times daily most days) with shakes.<br /><br />The other benefit is that I'm earning some residual income now too from the company. It's actually going to be my vacation spending money then will pay for my monthly products (which was my initial goal.)<br /><br />Why am I sharing this? Yes, I'm an Isagenix Consultant & yes, I am earning residual income. But my purpose in sharing is because I feel so great using this product & I want others to feel this way too. <br /><br />Want to know more?<br /><a href="www.heatherbickers1.isagenix.com">Isagenix</a><br /><a href="http://www.isagenixhealth.net">Isagenix Health</a> (where you can find out how Isagenix could help your health issues)<br /><br />One of the main reasons, I was comfortable using this stuff is because it is safe for breastfeeding & pregnancy (not the deep cleanse.) I have friends that utilized the products during both times & I would not use anything now that I could not use then.<br /><br />This blog is not going to turn into the Isagenix blog but I wanted to share what I am doing now. Please let me know if you are interested & I can provide you additional information (either by commenting with your contact info or completing the "contact me" section on the Isa website (top right corner.)<br /><br />I *hope* to get back to blogging more regularly. At least once a week is my goal. We'll see how that goes! Enjoy your weekend!!!<br /><a href><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/390/3AF3CFE823C417A82171E947490C82C7.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;"/></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08854850029894708981noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6852456570276684019.post-56867676465808436212011-08-15T15:50:00.003-05:002011-08-15T15:54:56.020-05:00Hi!Be back real soon. Lots of stuff going on, life is better & I will catch everyone up soon. But in the meantime, look who came home a couple months ago ;)
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<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dwyz-4n17xE/TkmHMPMVBwI/AAAAAAAAApE/vF_0VB6URRs/s1600/Molly.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-dwyz-4n17xE/TkmHMPMVBwI/AAAAAAAAApE/vF_0VB6URRs/s320/Molly.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5641188652564678402" /></a>
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<br /><a href><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/390/3AF3CFE823C417A82171E947490C82C7.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;"/></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08854850029894708981noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6852456570276684019.post-17525887101341049992011-06-15T08:44:00.004-05:002011-06-15T11:20:44.293-05:00Meet Molly!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jVSyOgddzdY/Tfi3f1d_GPI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/14FZmf6jF5Y/s1600/New%2BPuppy%2521.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 180px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jVSyOgddzdY/Tfi3f1d_GPI/AAAAAAAAAmQ/14FZmf6jF5Y/s320/New%2BPuppy%2521.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618442292701370610" /></a><br />Bad cropping on this picture but I wanted to introduce you to the newest member of our family. Our little goldendoodle!!!! We picked her out the day before we learned that we lost the baby. She'll come home in a couple weeks. (you can click the picture to see her better!)<br /><br />Clearly, she will be a welcomed addition to our home (well, not sure the cat will think so) & will provide us a lot of joy....even when she's having accidents on the carpet. Housebreaking will commence from day 1!<br /><br />As for me, I'm healing. I had a complication this week but it seems to have passed & I am better (will spare you the TMI but if you really want to know then comment & I am happy to email you.) It was scary though!<br /><br />Thank you SO much for the kind comments about the loss. I am so humbled by people's kindness. Your prayers are greatly appreciated. I will say that initially I wanted to not try anymore but that's just silly. God does not put desires in our hearts that are not meant to be. My doctor is doing additional testing on the baby (reason I had another D&C) & I will have extensive blood work done next week. She truly feels nothing is wrong but since our losses were so close she is able to do it. I will keep the blog updated!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight:bold;">UPDATE:</span> I just got word that we will be bringing Molly home on Friday!!!! We are not ready for her but will be by then! haha<br /><a href><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/390/3AF3CFE823C417A82171E947490C82C7.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;"/></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08854850029894708981noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6852456570276684019.post-3728458295503287982011-06-06T15:02:00.002-05:002011-06-06T15:04:15.394-05:00Broken.I am emotionally & spiritually broken. We learned today that we have yet again lost a baby. This on the heels of picking out the most adorable goldendoodle puppy that we will bring home in a few weeks. We had NO idea what a blessing she would be.<br /><br />I go in for surgery in the morning. I don't know when or if I will be back to blogging. Someday, I hope.<br /><br />I appreciate you all keeping up with my ramblings. <br /><br /><a href><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/390/3AF3CFE823C417A82171E947490C82C7.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;"/></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08854850029894708981noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6852456570276684019.post-19935348819506337112011-06-02T08:32:00.004-05:002011-06-02T08:46:25.791-05:00I've been keeping a secret.....<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7qEISt-iUWs/TeeRGiCW2OI/AAAAAAAAAmE/3x5pCTX6VAk/s1600/snowflake.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 320px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7qEISt-iUWs/TeeRGiCW2OI/AAAAAAAAAmE/3x5pCTX6VAk/s320/snowflake.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5613615001942546658" /></a><br /><br />Yes, it's true. I'm pregnant again!!!!!!! I've wanted to share for weeks but I'd chicken out. It's not like you can jinx yourself but being pregnant RIGHT after a miscarriage is scary.<br /><br />We actually got a positive test on April 21st. I had NO idea when it happened but it was so faint that we would've been quite entertaining to watch as we turned that little test strip 50 different ways to see if we were hallucinating! haha<br /><br />The scary part was that I started bleeding on Saturday (just 2 days after we found out.) Since it was so early on, we didn't go to the ER but I called the doctor on Monday & they got me in right away. Over the next few (LONG & AGONIZING) days, they did betas & much to our excitement, we were not only pregnant but my levels tripled (never fear..only one baby in there!) A week later, they check again, tripled but found my progesterone a bit low so I've been on suppositories since then.<br /><br />I had an ultrasound on May 16 & I was able to see my little lentil along with it's most beautiful flickering heart. Based on my last cycle, I would've been 7w4d (exactly when the first baby stopped growing) but this one was measuring 5w5d. Completely fine because I know my cycles are long so there was no way I was that far along. We went from a December 29 due date to January 11th. So as of today, I'm 8 weeks, 2 days & counting. <br /><br />This pregnancy has been MUCH different. I am constantly tired & actually sleeping ALL the time (last time was major insomnia!) & I'm sick ALL the time. Food only helps for about an hour so while I'm eating often, I'm not eating large amounts. I get full fast. <br /><br />And because all my summer stuff was too big in October when we went to Orlando, I'd gotten rid of it all. So I've already had to shift into a few maternity bottoms but wow are they comfy so I don't care! <br /><br />I held out on announcing this here because I know a few people from church subscribe (though I don't know if they even read) so I kept it quiet. We are NOT going public until my next appt on June 14. We will then share with our close friends & extended families but there will be no FB announcement so if we are friends there, please keep my secret. <br /><br />At some point, I will talk about all the anxiety that comes with being pregnant after a loss (literally, we had one cycle again & BAM!) Clearly, we have NO fertility issues there. I am praying daily with my hand on my tummy for this baby to just keep growing. At conception, it's already decided so while it's not in our hands, I turn to the One who has that control for comfort.<br /><br /><a href><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/390/3AF3CFE823C417A82171E947490C82C7.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;"/></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08854850029894708981noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6852456570276684019.post-36937738009230161582011-05-14T09:41:00.004-05:002011-05-14T09:51:19.878-05:00Ozzy moments.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-31Dcts-W9AY/Tc6VxBNTM1I/AAAAAAAAAl4/6dQptHTJ7Gg/s1600/P2271635.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-31Dcts-W9AY/Tc6VxBNTM1I/AAAAAAAAAl4/6dQptHTJ7Gg/s320/P2271635.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5606583255493194578" /></a> Dad's girlfriend, Daddy & me being my usual self after my wedding. Why would he say I ruined the picture????? <br /><br />When I say Ozzy, I do NOT mean Ozzy & Harriet. More like Ozzy Osbourne because are currently riding the crazy train in our house! We are in the process of selling my house, another HUGE thing going on (can't share right now) & gearing up for a busy time for us. We are camping with my BIL & his family for the holiday weekend then we have (in order) a wedding, my Dad's Petty racing experience at Joliet Speedway, another wedding & exhale...... We'll have one free weekend until my SIL & her family come in a for a busy 4th of July weekend. And you know what?? I can't wait!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!<br /><br />My apologies for my absence. Just can't fully share what's happening right now (public blog & all) but prayers would be great if you are the praying kind. We can use all the good thoughts, karma & prayers that we can get!!!<br /><br />How are you??? Anything that I can be praying for on your behalf????<br /><br /><a href><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/390/3AF3CFE823C417A82171E947490C82C7.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;"/></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08854850029894708981noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6852456570276684019.post-68667001707416882682011-05-03T13:10:00.002-05:002011-05-03T13:10:40.372-05:00Whew!SOOOOOOOOOOO much going on right now! Hope to share soon!<br /><br /><a href><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/390/3AF3CFE823C417A82171E947490C82C7.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;"/></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08854850029894708981noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6852456570276684019.post-69491809424746490892011-04-22T12:55:00.003-05:002011-04-22T12:59:41.176-05:00Thank you Lord.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K44Usj8AYJk/TbHBuwIpD9I/AAAAAAAAAlg/QHRn5xTDORU/s1600/cross1.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-K44Usj8AYJk/TbHBuwIpD9I/AAAAAAAAAlg/QHRn5xTDORU/s400/cross1.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5598468820737527762" /></a><br />For the sacrifice you made for MY sins. You suffered, died & rose again for us all but I am reminded that you would have still done it even if only for me.<br /><br />Humbly praising you with a thankful heart for the eternal gift.<br /><br />Have a Blessed Easter everyone!!<br /><br /><a href><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/390/3AF3CFE823C417A82171E947490C82C7.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;"/></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08854850029894708981noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6852456570276684019.post-54933690906536637012011-04-18T19:07:00.002-05:002011-04-18T19:10:59.210-05:00Help!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GH1d14sjV1A/TazSpN_q7gI/AAAAAAAAAlU/3ieNLpdNCP0/s1600/creepy%2Bbunny.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 261px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-GH1d14sjV1A/TazSpN_q7gI/AAAAAAAAAlU/3ieNLpdNCP0/s400/creepy%2Bbunny.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597080042487868930" /></a><br /><br />He's creepy, eh? So here's a fun shift of gears for you. I need your help. What are your favorite Easter recipes???? I'm making dinner for us, maybe my inlaws & Dad with his girlfriend. I'm planning for ham, glazed carrots & Kevin's requested scalloped potatoes.<br /><br />Any good recipes that you want to share with me???? <br /><br />Help a sister out ;)<br /><br />And btw, thank you all once again for so much amazing support. I'm feeling better & now playing the waiting game to see if this is our month. God's plan....<br /><br /><br /><a href><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/390/3AF3CFE823C417A82171E947490C82C7.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;"/></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08854850029894708981noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6852456570276684019.post-25449690500443182712011-04-10T11:17:00.002-05:002011-04-10T11:22:51.862-05:00Today I cried.So today we went to the gym, I went to the store, came home & we got yardwork done (finally!) It's a beautiful 80 degree day with the sun shining, breeze blowing, intense storms coming later. Thanked the Lord for today & what it will bring.<br /><br />But as I got ready after showering, I was digging through my clothes to get dressed. I put on things that were too big for me as I met my goals at the end of last year & reality set in. I'm right back to where I started.<br /><br />Yes, I got pregnant. Yes, I had to seriously cut back on my workouts. Yes, I had a miscarriage. Our close friends & family know this but to most.... I just look fat again. I'm so so sad today. No baby. Just fat. I do not like what I see. I've tried to diet it away to fail. Not because I'm eating too much. In fact, I'm probably eating less most days. But the scale creeps up every.single.week. I don't know what to do so I cried as I dried my hair. Then came into the front room (my sitting room, eventually a nursery) & avoided Kevin for a few minutes so dry my eyes & clear up my red face. He knows what I'm feeling but really doesn't know what to say. I don't like myself right now but am still trying to trust that God is preparing my body. Perhaps I was too lean but now? Just feeling fat.<br /><a href><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/390/3AF3CFE823C417A82171E947490C82C7.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;"/></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08854850029894708981noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6852456570276684019.post-76675502883127425362011-04-07T15:06:00.003-05:002011-04-07T15:17:28.889-05:00Still here.Hey all! I'm sorry for my absence. Life got a hold of me & while things are mostly good, things happen.<br /><br />*A VERY good friend of ours had a heart attack. At 35. He's fine now (with the help of 2 stents) but it was quite the scare. We are very grateful to be attending his surprise birthday party tomorrow night. <br /><br />*Something happened at home the other night that really hurt my feelings. It was NOT intentional & I'm overly sensitive (certain that Mom would tell me that) but still took me a couple days to feel better. Hubby thankfully is fully aware of how I deal with things so gave me space yesterday & today is back to normal.<br /><br />*He's also been sick this week so that puts baby-making on hold but I trust that in God's plan for us. Something tells me that this is part of it!!! <br /><br />*I ran into a friend this weekend at a local race who I'd not see in a while (kind of a friend of a friend deal) so we chatted. She'd heard about the miscarriage & said she has a strong feeling that his time was our time. Then proceeded to tell me that she felt TWINS!!! Jen is a faithful believer & she gets "words" if you will. Those are two that popped into her mind during our talk. And for what it's worth, she's always spot on. I'm not telling Kevin ;) <br /><br />*That's it for now but if you are curious about anything, feel free to ask :)<br /><br /><a href><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/390/3AF3CFE823C417A82171E947490C82C7.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;"/></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08854850029894708981noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6852456570276684019.post-46897774078551512832011-03-24T09:17:00.002-05:002011-03-24T09:25:41.853-05:00And exhale.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-428uEUt2GqI/TYtSpdpnL1I/AAAAAAAAAjc/sm3xWEvmaNc/s1600/Keep%2Bcalm%2B%2526%2Bhave%2Bfaith.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 224px; height: 280px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-428uEUt2GqI/TYtSpdpnL1I/AAAAAAAAAjc/sm3xWEvmaNc/s400/Keep%2Bcalm%2B%2526%2Bhave%2Bfaith.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5587650634970509138" /></a><br />Totally harder than it sounds but with much prayer & being literally carried by God in the last 6 weeks, I can finally let out a HUGE sigh of relief. This week has been SO hard & I've not felt like myself AT ALL. <br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J7poB5xdkN0/TYtS3qwItbI/AAAAAAAAAjk/xiaZ2skZ3j8/s1600/TheChurch.png"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 400px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J7poB5xdkN0/TYtS3qwItbI/AAAAAAAAAjk/xiaZ2skZ3j8/s400/TheChurch.png" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5587650879005701554" /></a><br />This was almost as funny as me thanking Jesus this morning when it was confirmed that I got my period again!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Yes, it was a tease last night & I had some slight spotting but this morning the relief was there. After a VERY long 6 weeks of waiting to heal, knowing I was ovulating (and couldn't "try") & all the crazy hormonal changes that came along with it all, I feel like I can exhale.<br /><br />We are definitely going to start trying, well, once this is all done ;) lol Sorry for the TMI but it's my life, my blog & my ramblings. Not to mention, some of you have been through this & some might someday (though I pray that you never experience this) & come across this blog in googling. So I hope my sharing helps. I'm excited to move to the next phase & am prayerful that we get lucky enough to conceive again so quickly. It is in God's hands & we accept that but also truly believe that we'd not have been given a taste of parenthood if it were not meant for our future. <br /><br />Hope you are all well & again, greatly appreciate the support. <br /><br /><br /><br /><a href><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/390/3AF3CFE823C417A82171E947490C82C7.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;"/></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08854850029894708981noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6852456570276684019.post-62085444690480367902011-03-18T08:41:00.001-05:002011-03-18T08:43:04.361-05:00Getting back to me<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1XIkI6zzmrQ/TYNhOivF2bI/AAAAAAAAAjU/fZmKD6NZle8/s1600/IMG_1021.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1XIkI6zzmrQ/TYNhOivF2bI/AAAAAAAAAjU/fZmKD6NZle8/s400/IMG_1021.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5585414865339931058" /></a><br />Creepy, eh? It's from our Orlando trip (yes, back around Halloween.) That was in an area of Horror Nights called Saws & Steam. The premise was that there was a shortage of water in the city (NY) & they were killing folks to power "the machine." We are made of a lot of water you know ;) I lurked on an Orlando forum & that guy was a member. Fun to meet him & people watch in this Scare Zone. Have I mentioned I'm terrified of chainsaws & stayed on the sidewalk in this area? They couldn't chase you there! hahaha Wuss.<br /><br />So why am I sharing this? Well, that's the time that I was at my goal weight (yes, it comes to that always doesn't it?) & where I felt my best. I was comfortably wearing my 8's & just felt great about me.<br /><br />I want to get back there yet my body is still fighting with me. No period yet either. I'm hopeful it's coming soon because I've had PMS for 2 weeks now (including a RIDICULOUS amount of bloat.) The scale has started creeping down again VERY slowly but I'll take it since I'm still not at 100%. Though I said I wasn't going to, I went ahead & signed up for WW online again just to have some tracking. I'm not being OCD about it but it's helping me log my choices even if I go over in "points."<br /><br />I'm in the gym 3-4 days a week. I was doing cardio & started back to FB workouts but my body didn't like that. I hurt. I've taken breaks before but this time was different & my body didn't bounce back like it used to. So this week is cardio only again (& may just do that until I get my period.) I'm afraid of over-stressing my body & while I know it's a machine, I have to remmeber it's been through A LOT! I actually notice the most scale success on the days I DON'T workout (well that next morning.)<br /><br />The reality? I gained 7 pounds while pregnant. I bloated 7 more when the PMS symptoms kicked in. I've now lost 2 of that so I'm on my way. My body has been through a lot so I'm trying to respect that but along the way back, I'd like to get back to where I feel my best. We plan to start trying again once we are able (just waiting for my period) & with God's blessing will conceive again quickly. If I never lose another ounce so be it. I shared with a friend that it was pretty clear that I was over-training leading up to pregnancy & while I felt good & never run down, my body responded once I had to back down.<br /><br />My plan for now is just to do 3-4 days a week with FB & cardio, eat well (tracking but not being OCD) & honor my body so it's ready for baby again.<br /><br />Hope you are all well. So appreciate the support that comes & while I may have lost some readers along the way from not being consistent lately, I do appreciate those that check in on me :)<br /><br />Have a FABULOUS weekend & BOILER UP! ;) <br /><br /><br /><a href><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/390/3AF3CFE823C417A82171E947490C82C7.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;"/></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08854850029894708981noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6852456570276684019.post-77587823880783860232011-03-09T14:08:00.004-06:002011-03-09T14:23:24.969-06:00Trying.I know God will not give me anything I can't handle. I just wish He didn't trust me so much. - Mother Teresa Of Calcutta<br /><br />Seems fitting for not only myself but another friend (actually two) at the moment. I have been doing okay but it seems that everywhere I turn I run into a brick wall. Pregnancies everywhere, baby showers, stuff in general. A friend's husband OD'd...again. And today a very good friend called to tell me they were also unable to find their baby's heartbeat. :( My heart breaks for her. There was a group of Kevin's friends that got married in a row (we were #2.) All of us were pregnant (in reverse wedding order) then I miscarried & now the first married couple has also miscarried (she was 2 weeks behind me.) <br /><br />I'm having a hard time because I still feel in limbo. I'm finally getting a negative HPT (doing them weekly as it's my only sign of dropped levels.) So I am thinking that I'm ovulating now & will start in the next 2 weeks. Fingers crossed. We'll start trying after that period. <br /><br />I guess that's it. Nothing upbeat, nothing exciting, just being right now but I thought I'd update with that.<br /><br /><br />Thank you all so much for your thoughts, prayers & comments. <br /><br /><a href><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/390/3AF3CFE823C417A82171E947490C82C7.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;"/></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08854850029894708981noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6852456570276684019.post-40981118001981685732011-02-19T13:24:00.003-06:002011-02-19T13:30:54.400-06:00<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vWx36okPpB8/TWAaQJiGeII/AAAAAAAAAjE/GnbSX05uu-s/s1600/going%2Bto%2Bbe%2Balright.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 267px; height: 400px;" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vWx36okPpB8/TWAaQJiGeII/AAAAAAAAAjE/GnbSX05uu-s/s400/going%2Bto%2Bbe%2Balright.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5575485203423852674" /></a><br /><br />I found this poster on Etsy & it pretty much sums it all up. I'm feeling better & my hormones are dropping slowly but surely. My boobs don't hurt anymore, I'm finally sleeping through the night & I just am starting to feel like "me" again. I have my follow up from the D&C with my doctor on Wednesday & am PRAYING that I get the all clear to not only resume workouts (I'm going to spontaneously combust if she says no) but also to resume "other" activities ;) I miss my husband in that way!!! Not to sound all horn-doggy but I just miss that part of our relationship. And our 1 year wedding anniversary is coming up too. I can't believe it's gone so fast!<br /><br />Thank you all from the bottom of my heart for your sweet comments, support & encouragement. It's appreciated more than you can know. I'll get back to blogging more regularly soon (I hope.)<br /><br />Hoping you are all well & enjoying some nice weather where you are!!!! Feel free to tell me how you are too...I've been sucking at keeping up with blogs lately!<br /><br />Much love & prayers for a wonderful week ahead!!!<br /><br /><a href><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/390/3AF3CFE823C417A82171E947490C82C7.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;"/></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08854850029894708981noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6852456570276684019.post-74434071212707549752011-02-09T09:13:00.002-06:002011-02-09T09:18:23.151-06:00Well.There's really no easy way to say this. I've had a miscarriage :( I'm heartbroken & devastated but really leaning on God. In fact, I asked him yesterday to carry me for a while. <br /><br />I ended up in the ER on Sunday afternoon after a gush of blood (sorry for the TMI) & after a very long hour in ultrasound was later told that the baby stopped growing around 8 weeks which was when I experienced the "old blood" discharge. I had a D&C yesterday (at what would've been 10 weeks) & am just resting at home now.<br /><br />My heart hurts but I can understand that this was not our baby to keep. We got pregnant so fast (after one cycle) so we are encouraged that it'll happen again when we are given the okay. Not to mention the science that shows you are more fertile in the 6 months following a miscarriage. There is also an encouraging study about the very high rate of successful pregnancies that occur after a first pregnancy miscarriage. <br /><br />So we are hopeful, keeping faith & turning to God A LOT! Prayers would be GREATLY appreciated!<br /><br /><a href><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/390/3AF3CFE823C417A82171E947490C82C7.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;"/></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08854850029894708981noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6852456570276684019.post-73839685411239098552011-01-27T14:05:00.004-06:002011-01-27T14:13:29.223-06:00Dear sleep, I miss you!The insomnia continues. Well, I guess it could be considered that but in reality I'm just wide awake after 5-6 hours a night. So, I do my best to stay up past 8pm but it's SO hard! That leaves me a zombie all day long unless I can catch a little sleep before Kevin gets out of bed.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_HWLn-u6sn3o/TUHQIpDCEJI/AAAAAAAAAiw/nJ6YyPBmd7A/s1600/funny-pictures-these-cats-are-zombies.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 280px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_HWLn-u6sn3o/TUHQIpDCEJI/AAAAAAAAAiw/nJ6YyPBmd7A/s400/funny-pictures-these-cats-are-zombies.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566959461282746514" /></a> (these guys were just too cute!)<br /><br />Speaking of cats, mine has been glued to my side. I noticed him being uber clingy but that was before I learned I was pregnant. He's up my rear, has to sleep on me or be touching me & is acting like a creeper. I'll be laying on the couch & he just sits there watching me! haha Creeper kitty!<br /><br />Other than sleep issues, I'm doing well & feeling good. I had a little scare with some discharge this weekend that freaked me out though totally normal. So my doctor's office moved up my appointment to next week for "peace of mind." haha I think that translates to "crazy preggo calling." I'm SO excited to hear a heartbeat & see the little bean via ultrasound!!!! I'm certain I'll cry at both. I think it'll make it more real for Kevin too :)<br /><br />And I've taken a bit of a gym break too. I may not work out the rest of this trimester but will play it by ear. I feel like a slug yet am enjoying the break honestly. I wish it was nicer outside to just walk in the neighborhood but that won't happen for a bit. I have the rest of my life to exercise so not putting pressure on myself at the moment.<br /><br />Hope you are all well. Anything exciting happening with you??? And from the bottom of my heart, a sincere thank you for all the well wishes!!!! The lentil & I appreciate it :)<br /><br /><a href><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/390/3AF3CFE823C417A82171E947490C82C7.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;"/></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08854850029894708981noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6852456570276684019.post-16871085139130833052011-01-19T11:25:00.001-06:002011-01-19T11:25:36.373-06:00Just like that.I <span style="font-weight:bold;">feel</span> pregnant!!! That was Monday. My boobs were bigger (heavier) & my waist appeared to be thicker. We won't even talk about the bloat that was partially caused from pregnancy & partially caused from eating out so much with wake/funeral stuff. So today, just to make sure I wasn't crazy, I busted out the tape measure. Yep...everything has increased...boobs, waist, tummy. <br /><br />And you know what? I love it. Why? It's signs that I'm really & truly pregnant. Some will look at me & just think I've put on a few pounds (yes, it's visible) because my jeans are a little tight, clearly a muffin top over my gym stretchies & my tummy is pooched.<br /><br />I will embrace the new thickness & know that I'm baking a baby. I swear I'll talk more about other stuff too but indulge me for a little while as I just take this all in still ;)<br /><br /><a href><img src="http://signatures.mylivesignature.com/54488/390/3AF3CFE823C417A82171E947490C82C7.png" style="border: 0 !important; background: transparent;"/></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08854850029894708981noreply@blogger.com4