THE LONG ROAD TO THE NEW ME!

2012......

2012-01-05T18:45:00.002-06:00

So far 2012 has been great! I wouldn't change a thing. JR and I have moved into our new home and settling in nicely.

Both of us back to work now after a bit of a break.

I am loving my new job as a paralegal. I am learning so many new things and it helps that I work with a couple really layed back attorneys who are more than willing to teach me along the way.

My last class is next Tuesday then I will have my Associates Degree in Paralegal Studies. Woo hoo...

I got a Kindle for Christmas and can't wait to be able to curl up and read something other than a text book!

I hope you all have a fantastic and healthy 2012...

Merry Christmas....

2011-12-23T06:52:00.002-06:00

As I get older I realize how much the holidays are about "Family and Friends" and not the presents (unless you have little rugrats around)! It must be the grandma in me to feel like this. I pray that everyone in the (blogger world) has the most wonderful Holiday Season and you make many memories to carry you throughout your life.

MERRY CHRISTMAS EVERYONE!

CHANGES = HAPPINESS

2011-11-11T16:54:00.003-06:00

Well, I am so excited to announce that I have a job in a law firm! I just got the offer today and it was a very very happy moment for me! I just had to share my news. I finish up my paralegal degree this term. I am in the middle of it right now. My last class is Jan. 10th....

Algebra is hard and I am having to really behave and stay committed to my studies.

JR and I are great, in fact, we have decided to co-habitate and we signed the lease on a cute little rental in a town that is actually midway between both of our jobs! So on New Year's Eve we will be moving in. What a way to celebrate the New Year. I believe that 2012 is going to be my year!

Beginning of the end....

2011-10-20T14:05:00.002-05:00

This week I started my last term in college. I have only 2 classes left and horribly finding out I saved the hardest for last! Gonna take a lot of commitment and dedication from myself to pull off A's in both of these classes!

I am doing just fine without my band, in fact TOO fine! There are foods I have missed and they are soon becoming my favorites again. Ugghhh.... And I am really enjoying cooking again, now that I have someone to cook for and he loves to eat!

I am glad at this point we are only together on the weekends because of distance and our work schedules OR I would have gained all my weight back already! He thinks I am the bestest cook! I am just experimenting with old fashioned home cooking as that is what he likes. He is pretty easy to please which is nice!

Been having a good time on the weekends, running around and enjoying being together. I told him that one day of the weekend would be subject just to homework!

DONE...

2011-09-16T12:47:00.002-05:00

I am completely done with all of the lap band issues now. I had the final surgery on 9-2 and went for my post op yesterday. I am done and looking forward to being released to exercise again. I have been under restrictions since the middle of June.

Didn't get to enjoy the summer in a pool but once before all this happened. Looking forward to getting to visit my sister next year and her pool! LOL

New possibilities are on the horizon for me in both personal and business worlds so will keep you posted if changes occur! Keep your fingers crossed, all changes would be a plus!

Last and final Lapband surgery...

2011-08-23T11:44:00.002-05:00

I scheduled my surgery for Sept. 2, 2011. Once it is completely out I can put this mess for the last few months behind me. I am proud to say that I have only gained 2 ounces since June! And I am eating some of the foods I loved from the past.

So I am doing something right and can't wait until they let me go back to exercising. I am still on restrictions involving my abdomen area. So walking is about all I can do at this point and my back doesn't allow much of that!

I am so ready for fall temperatures to arrive too! Just sayin!!!!

New changes...

2011-08-19T11:51:00.002-05:00

Well, again sorry for being a "bad" blogger! I am so busy with school, working 2 jobs and homework that I find little time for the pleasures of life!

I do have good news though. On May 2nd, someone whom I dated back in 2007 for a couple months found me on Facebook and we re-connected. This time it was different, he wasn't going through a divorce and I wasn't starting a new job. Things have fallen into place very nicely.

He lives about an hour away and we see each other on weekends only, but with my schedule and he works nights it is all we would be able to do even if we lived closer to one another.

He has been there with me through all of the drama of the lapband and has seen me after being drugged up and he still wants to be apart of my life.

He is a great dad and granddad as well. He has two grandsons that are just priceless.

I am excited to see where things lead with JR (James) is his given name, but everyone calls him JR. He makes my heart smile!

New career changes

2011-07-22T18:41:00.002-05:00

Well, as most of you know I have been going to College in the evenings for my paralegal associates degree. I only have 4 classes left!!!

I am now working part-time (4 nights a week, after my full-time job) for a lawyer. I am typing up his traffic ticket letters and hoping to get my feet wet and move into a permanent position. He hinted to it when he hired me on. It may be a few months down the road, but I am fine with that.

He is a solo attorney and doesn't have anyone working for him at this time. (HE is also one of my professors). He offered it up to the class one night and no one seemed interested. I waited until after my surgery before I broached the subject with him and he jumped on it!

I am very pleased that I may be working in the legal field by the time I graduate!

Final step...

2011-07-20T07:18:00.003-05:00

I signed the consent form yesterday to have the entire lap band removed. It was a great feeling. I am mentally and financially done. The band worked, but I have had it unfilled now for over 5 weeks and maintained my weight throughout.

Now Monday afternoon I came down with a stomach virus that was just horrible. I love 10 lbs overnight! What a way to lose it though....

But it is a starting point if I can keep that 10 off it will inspire me once I can exercise again to get the ball rolling on my own.

My next surgery will be very quick and hopefully recovery will be swift! Just three small incisions, pull it out and I am done.

Thanks everyone for listening to me vent about all this. YOU are the only ones who understand what I am going through. Banders UNITE!

Decision made....

2011-07-08T07:25:00.002-05:00

I have an appt on Tuesday with the surgeon and his aftercare PA and I am going to opt out of this lap band. Finding out about the two different kinds of bacteria that were present with this infection has me running scared. I have researched the one Streptococcus and it is a scary little bacteria and waiting a few days longer could have resulted in a lifetime of heart issues.

So my next surgery will be to have the lap band removed. I am at peace with this decision and actually looking forward to having it out of my life. It did work for me though. I don't want anyone to read this and think the lap band is not a phenomenal tool for weight loss because it is. It is just a tool though and has to be used as one.

I feel good about the weight I have been able to loose with it. I just want to make sure it doesn't come back on and have got some good friends who said they will keep me accountable! Thanks to Amy and Ruth (co-workers) I hope we can make it work!

I am more consciouses about it now though and even though I have been able to eat anything I want for the last couple weeks I am trying to make good decisions and not go back to old habits. I am happy to report not one lb. has snuck back on yet!

I will keep you all posted about the band issue with the surgeon after Tuesdays appointment!

To keep the band or let it go????

2011-07-05T21:24:00.002-05:00

I need feedback! I am leaning towards getting rid of it. Just needing thoughts of those who have the band, have had issues with their band, etc..... I have to decide by next Tuesday.

Thanks ladies and gents!

Post op appt.

2011-07-05T14:21:00.002-05:00

Well, it went okay. We are waiting one more week before we take the stitches out. He said the open wound area is looking well. Gave me new things to pack it with.

I found out they found two different strains of infection. One was ecoli and the other was varidini strep which tunnels towards the heart and causes endomycaditis. AND that is exactly where this was tunneling. So I am a very lucky lady to have caught it before it reached into that area. It was tunneled up toward the band (did not know this until today).

So fellow lapbanders and well wishers, I am really contemplating having the band removed. When they do the next surgery, whether it be to reposition a new port or remove the band, it will be my 4th surgery associated with the band since 2008.

My insurance has changed this last year and now the procedure is no longer covered and the fills aren't either. So the maintenance is going to get costly.

Let me know what you all think?!?!?!?!?!

I have done well and lost a couple pounds without the band but my appetite is gone right now.

Surgical Update

2011-06-30T18:26:00.002-05:00

Well, I went into surgery thinking I would have port repositioning but woke up with old port out and a scar with 8 stitches and a cavernous hole next to it. The infection was still too involved so he cleaned out the tunnel that the infection made and packed it with up to 1 ft. of gauze.

I am to re-pack it 2x's a day and redress it. Okay, first time I pulled out the huge gauze strip I almost passed out. NOW, I generally can handle these things as I worked in a doctor's office and a nursing home and came upon alot of gross things. Well, since I was dealing with my own body it was a bit different!

I am down to a 2-3 minute packing and dressing change and it doesn't bother me much, I did say "much".

I go in next week to have the stitches removed and 2nd surgery where they will insert a new port (in a different area) and we will go from there!

I am hoping that this will be the last of my issues with this band as I told Dr. Edwards that one more thing like this and it is coming out. I don't want that to happen but this is the third and fourth times to be opened up over this lap band.

And I have researched how many others have had these problems and I am a very special case. I am Dr. Edwards "special" patient!

So wish me luck with this second surgery and prayers are always appreciated.

Pre-op.... next step surgery

2011-06-28T11:34:00.002-05:00

I had my Pre-op done this a.m. and tomorrow (time still to be determined) will be tomorrow.

Since the swelling and redness from the infection has gone away you can really how displaced the port it now. It is basically sitting on end.

Dr. Edwards said once he gets in there and sees what has happened he is probably going to reposition the band to a new location and let the old spot heal more. I did see on my CBC that my WBC has gotten back into the normal range!

So next time I post I will be out of surgery and recooping!

Thanks for all the thoughts and prayers... I really appreciate it!

Lap band issues

2011-06-23T12:37:00.002-05:00

Well, I have been through it for the last couple weeks. A soreness settled in my "port" area a few weeks ago, thinking I had pulled something or the muscle around it. Well, redness set in and major pain.

Someone told me last weekend to get it looked at, so Tuesday of this week I made an appt.

My fill nurse was so very concerned she "emergency" paged the doctor from the hospital back to the office. He was as well, they took out the 5.6 cc's I had in the band and scheduled a gastric scope to check on the condition of the stomach area around the band to see if it had started eroding from the infection. Three antibiotics later and a few days exposed to them the redness is leaving and the pain is starting to subside.

Luckily, after the scope yesterday it was determined that the band area was fine but that I have ulcers now. Those are from the Aleve I take for my back issues (which is now a no/no...) and stress in my life for the last few months.

So today Dr. Edwards determined that we would take the port out, clean the area free from any left over infection and then repositioning a new port to an new area.

So next week, Wednesday, June 29th I go under the knife for a 3rd time with this band.

Bumps and Bruises along the way...

2011-05-19T15:35:00.000-05:00

Well, it has been since the end of March since I posted on this blog. My life has gone from really high "ups" to really low "downs".

BUT... I am back and things are much, much better....

I should be back on here more frequently. As most of us, I become introverted when I am dealing with issues.

I promise to be a better blogger!

Life....

2011-03-23T07:18:00.002-05:00

Well, my life has been a bit busy. This term at school is over early April and I get a week to recoop and then start new classes! I am taking Criminal Procedure/Constitution and Legal Research and Writing II. Both are going to be interesting I believe.

Well, this whole mess with Wally was partially to blame on his soon to be ex. She started some things that I believed and they weren't true. I got confirmation of this from others and that helped alot.

I am in counseling working on my "Adjustment issues in relationships" basically steming from my abuse as a child by my father. So it is obvious to say I have some MAJOR trust issues in any relationship. When the person(s) you are suppose to trust as a child are the ones who break that and hurt you and don't help you, it sets you up for a big fall. So I finally took the bull by the horns and I am going to deal with this head on so I can be happy throughout the rest of my life.

I have to say the Dr. I am seeing has enlightened me about a lot of stuff and I am reading a couple of really great books about incest victims in childhood. I will blog about them later if anyone is interested in them.

Wally is in counseling as well for his own demons. Working on ending this divorce and then we can move forward.

We have seen each other since the break up and things are actually better than they were before. We are communicating on a much higher level and it is nice to have that.

So things are good, busy and I am loving this weather..... That helps a persons mood as well!

In his time...

2011-02-15T10:44:00.002-06:00

I have had some good and some bad days recently. I made up my mind with God's help this a.m. sitting in the parking garage that I have to put him back where he belongs in my heart and wait on his timing.

I have heard the song "While I'm Waiting" by John Waller like 4x's in the last couple days and it is so moving and exactly where I am right now. If you haven't heard it go to youtube.com and type in his name. It should pop right up so you can listen to it. It is just want I need to do right now.

Wait on his timing in my life!

What are you suppose to think....

2011-02-14T07:33:00.001-06:00

Well, I broke it off with Wally a couple weeks ago and he was SOOOOOOOOOOOOO devastated that he started up with a new lady 2 days later.

I guess the reason most women have "trust" issues is because of behavior just like this! I broke it off for those very reasons.

WOW.. shows you just never know someone!

Blizzard 2011...

2011-02-02T18:54:00.003-06:00

My front steps are under there somewhere!

Here in Missouri we had the Blizzard of 2011. The last time we had anything close to this was in 1912! I got officially, 12" of the white stuff. North of here got quite a bit more. My son received 18" inches or more of it up in Columbia.

On another note, I am a single lady again as of Monday of this week. It was my decision and I am okay with it. Things just weren't going positively in the right direction and trusts were broken. I had to move forward!

I am under the strong belief that this girl makes a TERRIFIC Single lady! Maybe, needs to stay that way!

Fun time with Grandma!

2011-01-20T09:54:00.003-06:00

Paige, dressed and ready to hit the streets!
Finally, a picture with everyone all looking in the same direction!

Trying to corral Miss Ivy! She is going to be very interesting to watch grow up!

Grandma and Miss Constance... sweet smile

Grandma and Paige... such a sweet little girl

Sweet and innocent (So far!)

Constance, growing up too fast.

I spent last weekend in Leavenworth, KS visiting my daughter's family. Paige had turned 1 the week before. We had a good time just hanging and nothing really on our agenda!

Paige

Paige playing with the present Wally and I got her for her birthday! She is so talented! Juggling already....

UPLOADING AND UPDATING....

2011-01-20T09:36:00.005-06:00

The girls (Constance and Ivy) giving Wally his present....
Daddy (son-in-law) and all the ladies in his life!

Daddy and his girls!

My daughter, Heather and her snowmen cupcakes... She is so creative!

Constance and I taking pictures of each other!

Ivy and her vacuum "fleener" she wanted for Christmas!

I got a vacuum "fleener"... LOL

I got a camera!

Miss Paigey Poo having a ton of fun just playing in the presents....

Nephew, Logan

The cousins: Derrick, Lacy, Rachel, Codie (holding baby Addison) and my son Brian. Only one's missing were Heather (my daughter), Logan, McKenna, Angel, Emily and Olivia.

My family. Baby Addison was the center of attention!

Wally preparing the Holiday Ham!

Wally's son, Terry and his gal, Judy... He stole the girls toys!

The Butler family.... Addison is wondering what Daddy got for Christmas....

Brian and Codie....

Wally meets baby Addison for the first time! Love the look on her face!

Tori (Terry's girlfriends little girl), Sarah and Sally (Wally's little girls)

Proud of their creation!

Terry helping the girls get their Gingerbread house started...

These photos accumulated over 2 different weekends. WE had a great time mixing our families and getting to know each other. I think the girls (Sarah and Sally) had a blast that weekend. We had lots of laughter, presents and way too much food.

I hope everyone else made alot of great memories this holiday season.

Bad BAD Blogger!

2011-01-20T09:31:00.002-06:00

Well, as you see I didn't post the pics from Christmas like I previously said I would! I just got busy with the end of a semester with finals and all that and lots of sickness around here lately. Most days for the last month my office has sounded like a TB ward in a hospital.

I have started a new semester and I am back on campus and not online this time. I missed my peeps! It was great to see everyone and talk besides on FB!

Wally and I are great. My kids and grandkids are all great and doing fine. Had a few birthdays in the month of December and January.

It is time to settle down and get involved in these new classes and enjoy my life!

Christmas Memories...

2010-12-23T07:48:00.002-06:00

So far this year it has been a wonderful holiday season. I have met Wally's little girls and they got to meet one of their brother's for the first time. Smiles all around!

My side of the family got together as well and did a small gift exchange and ate a lot. My back decided to not cooperate by Sunday so I was moving a bit slow and just sitting and watching!

My daughter, her hubby and the three little girls will be arriving tonight at my place and staying through to Christmas morning, and Wally should be home either Christmas eve or Christmas morning for the day, then back on the road heading to Chicago!

I am very appreciative that my Christmas this year is much more active. In the past years, I have been by myself on Christmas or most of it anyway (kinda gets depressing year after year). So YES I am tired, but happy!!!!

I will be posting pics here in the next couple days.....

Beginnings of the Holiday Season 2010....

2010-12-12T16:57:00.003-06:00

Wally and I's first Christmas tree.....
My first people to stand in front of the tree! Wally and his trainee, Donzell. I fed them and send them out in the cold! LOL

Pretty....

This is the beginning of the photos from the 2010 holiday season! I have a houseful coming in next weekend and staying all weekend and the Vote Christmas as well. Then the next weekend will be with my daughter, Heather and her family.

Random shots... ( I am playing catchup tonight!)

2010-12-06T19:37:00.003-06:00

Constance in her school's Halloween Parade. They had to dress up like a character in a book and carry a poster showing who they were. Alice in Wonderland and a cute one at that!
Paigey Poo trying to eat the inside of her pumpkin.... I just love this one!

Ivy our beautiful Spider Princess. Those eyes of hers just get me everytime. And she has such a sweet spirit as well.

Little ham, Paige!

Girls all in their Halloween t-shirts!

Newer photos of Little Miss Addison!

2010-12-06T19:29:00.003-06:00

Sweet baby Addison, she is 2 months old today!
The new little "Butler" Family

I always wonder what they are thinking at this age...

Pretty in Pink!

Grandma Ronda and newest little love of my life!

Photo shoot...

2010-12-06T19:24:00.003-06:00

Wally.... handsome huh!!!!
Me.... windblown look.. LOL

I love this one!

We had our photos taken by a wonderful photographer, Christy's Custom Photography in our area. She did a wonderful job at making these two old people look pretty good if I do say so myself! I was very impressed with the photos she got and we spent quite a bit on the finished project!

Update....

2010-12-06T15:32:00.002-06:00

Life has been busy in my household of late. I just moved completely this last weekend. I didn't move far at all, but I hate that packing up just to unpack again! I spent the entire weekend getting the house set up and ready for the holidays as well. I have a few random boxes here and there to finish going through and I should be done.

Wally and I are doing wonderful and I am going to get to meet his daughter's finally in a couple weeks. He is going forward in seeking full custody of them, which if that happens my life will definately be changing! Sally is 8 years old and Sarah is 11 years old.

We are going to have about 1/2 of our kids and grandkids with us on the 18th and 19th and then another group coming through the next weekend! So I will be chained to the stove but it will be nice to see everyone getting to know each other and bringing our two families together. We hope to sometime this coming year to get them ALL together just once!

I am getting close to the end of my semester and looking forward to it being over. It was hard to focus when so much was happening in other parts of my life. I have my new classes already lined out and that semester starts on Jan. 18th. I will be taking Wills, Trust and Probate and Bankruptcy. So should be interesting! I am still holding on tight to my 4.0 GPA....

I hope to have some pics posted here after our Christmas weekend with family.

Saturday at the zoo....

2010-10-10T08:22:00.004-05:00

Miss Ivy, ready to go and enjoy the zoo!
My best friend's daughter, Brannan and her family joined us at the zoo. Haven't seen her in over 6 years!

My granddaughter's and Brannan's sons, Nate and Izzy

My son-in-law and all the lovely ladies in his life!

My mom and the grandbabies

My daughter, Heather and Paige

Brannan and her little man, Izzy

The girls in front of the new Polar Bear exhibit

Me, my son-in-law and Paigey poo!

Paige is getting so big, riding in the wagon

We met my best friends, Kevin and Rennie's daughter, Brannan and her family at the zoo. She is expecting their 3rd little one and this is their last trip as a family of 4! We met up at the zoo and I got to meet all the new men in her life! Last time we were together was my daughter's wedding over 6 years ago.

It was fun seeing my granddaughter's playing with her sons. Who knew when her parents and my ex and I met back in 1985 that we would still be in each other's lives. I love it! They were both there for the birth of both of my children and Kevin married my daughter and son-in-law, I love having a relationship with close friends that have lasted the test of time and distance....

When we get together it is like we were never apart and the laughter and speed talking never stop! Love them all!

Pre-Halloween Dress Up!

2010-10-09T17:04:00.003-05:00

Constance as "Alice in Wonderland"
Ivy as "Spider Princess"

Grandma and Paige, Little Raggedy Ann

Costume Mommy bought before she was born... Little Baby Zebra

I won't get to be with the girls this year for Halloween so we did a little impromtu dress up so Grandma could see them all dressed up. They are going to be just adorable!

Miss Addison Lee Butler

2010-10-09T17:00:00.003-05:00

One hour old. 6 lbs. 8 ozs. and 19 1/2 inches long. Born on Oct. 6, 2010 at 2:45 p.m.
Grandma Ronda and Addison. Not sure she was liking being away from Mommy!

My son, Brian and his daughter, Addie

Newest Family Member...

2010-10-05T13:19:00.002-05:00

Today or tomorrow my little family will increase by one. Miss Addison Lee Butler is going to be given her "eviction notice" this afternoon at 4:30 p.m.... Now it all depends on when she decides to comply with that notice as to when we will get to see her!

Life is great right now! Things are fantastic with Wally and I and we are both very happy. My kids and grandkids are all healthy and happy.

I just got on the President's list again and still have a tight grip on my 4.0 GPA. New classes start on October 11th.

AND it is my favorite season ever. I love fall!

Fun!

2010-09-07T16:51:00.004-05:00

Constance and Ivy with a group of Woodland Fairies.....
Wally and his son's, Terry and Walt

Constance receiving a belly dancing lesson at the Ren Fest!

Wally and Paige

Miss Paige is 8 months now!

My daughter's family

Wally and Walt before the Ren Fest!

Terry and Wally

Miss Paige and her Grandma!

We had a wonderful time this Labor Day weekend up in Leavenworth County, KS. The renissaunce festival in Bonner Springs, KS was great (just like every other year I have gone), but this time shared with Wally and his sons and my family as well.

Having the grand daughter's there to experience it with was pretty cool too. They were mesmerized by all the fairies!

Labor Day Weekend....

2010-09-03T15:24:00.002-05:00

This is going to be the "Best" Labor Day Weekend I have had in many, many years. Wally and I are heading to Kansas City, MO to go to the Renaissance Festival and watch his son perform at the Festival.... Found out today that his younger son is actually going to come with us. One lives in Phoenix, AZ (the performer!) and the other lives in Oklahoma. I get to meet them both for the first time.

And my daughter and her family live the next town over from the festival so we are all going to get together for supper so everyone can get acquainted and have a grand ole' time! AND I get to see the grand babies as well! BONUS....

I will post pics once I get back home on Monday! Everyone be safe during this holiday weekend!

My weekend with the girls!

2010-08-31T21:44:00.000-05:00

Update...

2010-08-31T21:34:00.002-05:00

Not a lot going on right now. Started my physical therapy and really like my therapist. She is great, listens and has a great insight into what I need to keep my pain in back and leg somewhat at bay.

We have tried quite a few things and some are working and some aren't. Basically, behavior modification is my best friend. Stop trying to do it all and ask for help when I need something moved is a good one! Hoping to be able to start walking a bit more. I try and my leg and foot still go to sleep and the pain starts inching across my back.

School is still going strong. I have about a month left until this semester is over. Still holding on to my 4.0 as of now. Probably taking my next semester online completely as I have a new grand baby due in Oct. and want to spend a little time with them after she gets here and one trip for work in Nov.

My kids are doing great, my oldest granddaughter started kindergarten in August and is doing great. Ivy, the middle one is starting pre-school in two days. Hope it goes well, she is a Mommy's girl and never been without momma too much. Might be tears coming from both of them on Thursday morning. The baby, Paige is teething and has two bottom ones now and 4 trying to come through on top. She is crawling everywhere and seems to be quite the independent little gal!

Can't wait until baby, Addison gets here and we can start watching her personality bloom and love her to pieces!

Well, that is my update for the month of August! Going to meet Wally's oldest son this coming Labor Day weekend. I can't wait.. we have talked on the phone and he is pretty cool.

Diagnosis!

2010-08-14T07:40:00.004-05:00

Well, after the MRI was done I got a call the very next day! It is degenerative disc disease. And basically either physical therapy or pain medicine are my options. I started therapy last week and the machine they put on my pack and the heat felt soooooooooooooo good. I didn't want to leave. I go back for 6 more appts and hope to see a significant difference in my pain and numbness.

I was given a back brace to wear (23 hours a day as my therapist said) and it supports that nerve area. I actually woke up early today and took a short walk, maybe almost 1/2 mile and for me that is a major accomplishment. I was dragging my foot pretty bad on the way back but the pain was tolerable until I saw my house. I wanted to run to it so I could sit, but knew that wasn't a smart option!

So basically, it is something I have to live with and just talking to different people about it, a lot of people have this affliction. And most were really bad in the beginning and with behavior modification and pain meds and therapy they can tolerate it on some level but still have some really bad days.

We shall see what the future holds. I am excited for the next session and physical therapy as the first made it feel quite a bit more relaxed. The nerve wasn't as touchy I guess I am trying to say!

Sciatica??? MRI

2010-07-21T20:03:00.002-05:00

Well, I went to the doctor last week about this sciatica if that is really what I am dealing with. I had to really talk to her and convince her that I was in the pain that I was in. I guess it was hard for to believe because up to this point I hadn't asked for any pain killers. NOT the norm in the medical world.

Anyway, something I said struck a cord with her, basically that I had lost right at 100 lbs. and the pain has only gotten worse. So she ordered x-rays there in the office, after parading around the doctor office in (2) pink paper gowns and 6 x-rays later she ordered an MRI. She sure seemed concerned after she and two of her fellow physicians were pouring over the x-rays (don't think she meant for me to see that!).

My MRI is tomorrow a.m. and then she should get the results fairly soon and then she can decide what action to take from there, specialist, treatment, and the word surgery was mentioned (She tried slipping it in there non-chalantly) but I caught it!

My mom had the same issues a few years ago and had two bulging discs that were messing up the sciatic nerve and once they corrected the disc the pain went away in her hip.

So I am praying they can deal with this without surgery but if that is what it takes to fix it I will go under the knife for some relief.

This is what HAPPINESS looks like!

2010-07-06T15:10:00.002-05:00

My finals....

2010-06-30T20:56:00.003-05:00

I aced the final exam tonight in Business Law Office Management and got an A on my Legal Memorandum on Monday night.

So I still am holding on to my 4.0 GPA!

Next classes start July 12th and they are Civil Procedures and Environmental Science. I think I will enjoy both of them!

The summer is flying by like crazy!

My cowboy, Wally took me out to eat last night and left this a.m. for Oklahoma. Will be back Friday for the ENTIRE weekend and Monday!

End to the semester!

2010-06-27T06:52:00.002-05:00

Well this next week I have 2 finals and that brings this semester to an end. They were really good classes. But only because my professor is awesome! I should have her for all my "on campus classes". I am one of the "special" students as they like to call us. I only have 2 general education classes to take as all of my gen ed. classes from before all transfered over.

So I will be doing alot of online classes. AND I will be done quite a bit faster than all the other students who started when I did.

I get a short break (1 week) and then the new classes start. One is Civil Procedures and then Environmental Science.

Only class I am dreading is Algebra.... I have always thought that God never intended for numbers and letters to go together in a math class! Maybe I am wrong, but I don't think he did!!!!

Hope everyone is have a nice start to their summer! It sure is hot here for June. Makes me a little feared of what August is going to bring!

The Family

2010-06-22T17:29:00.006-05:00

I know it has been a while since I have posted. My life is finally getting in the way of my blogging! Yeah.....

We all were in KC area for my oldest Grandaughter's 5th birthday party. My guy, Wally finally got to meet my family and he still likes me so we are good!

The girls took to him almost instantly. He was even called Grandpa and Pa Pa a couple times. Not sure he was ready for all that, but he seemed to love it.

It was great getting to see everyone again it had been way too long!

The photos are of the birthday party and everyone there. The one of Constance on the phone is her getting a call from "Snow White" on her birthday wishing her a happy birthday. Constance got off the phone and said, "Mom, that was Snow White, how does she know me?"

The others are candids of Wally and the girls and Heather and David on their 6th anniversary. I didn't get any of my son and his wife. But they were there! Maybe next time!

Southwest Missouri Special Olympics...

2010-05-28T14:55:00.002-05:00

Today I volunteered for the Special Olympics in Springfield, MO. I love doing this every year. It is so inspiring and it is also so rewarding. I feel like when I walk away from this I have been zapped with happiness and feel so blessed.

I helped at the registration table for volunteers at 6 a.m. and then got shuffled over to the 50 yard dash and that was a blast. They let me shoot the starting gun! woo hoo.... The kids and adults are so competetive but let one of their own stumble or fall and they all stop and go over to that person and help them up. It is awe inspiring.

Our world would be so much more happier and content if we all aspired to be like these individuals!

Mother's Day ....

2010-05-10T07:42:00.003-05:00

My son, Brian and my youngest grandbaby, Paige
My daughter-in-law, Codie and Constance

My daughter, Heather and her babies!

The older girls attacking Paige....

Grandma and baby Paige

I had a wonderful weekend for Mother's day. I got to Leavenworth, KS on Friday morning and spent the day with Heather, David and the girls. We took Paige to her 4 month appt and she is a whopping 17lbs. and 12 ozs. VERY healthy baby girl.

Then Saturday we went on a nature hike to Weston State Park just a few miles from the kids house. The funniest thing and inspiring thing happened.... My son-in-law was ahead of us with Ivy and baby Paige strapped to his back and Constance wanted to try and catch them. So I said come on and started running. Constance said, "Grandma I didn't know you could run!" I never laughed so hard. But I did run and up hill on a hiking trail.... Needless to say we never really caught them as David picked up Ivy and ran from us. He is use to running everyday and with a ruck sack on his back ie... Paige.... LOL

Then on Mother's day we met up with my son, Brian and his wife, Codie for a day at the zoo in Kansas City. The weather was cooler, but sunny when we got there. About 45 mins. into it the wind came up cold and the clouds came rolling in. So we had to get the kids home out of the weather. But we had fun for the part of the zoo we saw. We had 3 tired little ones on the way home and never heard a word out of any of them.

I drove home after that and I have to admit this Grandma went to sleep at 8:25 last night and never moved! It was a great weekend....

Happy belated Mother's Day to all the blogging mother's out there in blogger world!

BMI update

2010-04-29T18:05:00.003-05:00

Okay, I checked my BMI today on a whim and I started out with a Whopping BMI of 55.6 not quite 2 years ago and now...... taa da...... I am at 40.6!!!! I am doing the Happy BMI Dance!

Diet Update...

2010-04-18T08:42:00.001-05:00

I needed to pass this along as well. I have come across a new Diet-breakthrough!

Happiness = 6 lbs lost in 4 days!

You should try it!

Life Changing....

2010-04-18T08:19:00.002-05:00

Okay, Ronda has gone and met someone who she feels is changing the aspect of her life in such a positive way.

I loving, God-fearing man who I have been emailing back and forth for over 6 weeks and we connected on a friendship basis, sharing stories of GOD and his impact in our lives, of our children and what they mean to us. When a man states that, "Because of my children I am the man I am today". It makes you take a step back.

We met officially after talking only via the internet, he gave me his cell number weeks ago and I just didn't feel right about that until we talked more. I guess I am old fashioned except for the internet dating...LOL

We met for lunch at a local deli and from the moment we sat down, we never stopped talking, smiling, laughing (He makes me laugh!) and then I had to leave. We never skipped a beat after 2 1/2 hours. So when I was finished with my appt. I texted him and asked if he was leaving (he is a truck driver and was suppose to roll out that afternoon). Well, God's timing is wonderful because he wasn't leaving. So we sat on my deck, watched the sunset and talked for another 5 hours. He left at midnight.

Then it ended up (which he says NEVER happens) that he didn't get a load out until the next day. So we met up in Springfield for a short visit and I ended up spending three days in his life. We were suppose to have lunch and he was to leave. God's timing is wonderful.

He is out on the road now and I rode with him last night through Oklahoma and Texas in the rain. We were on the phone for 4 hours and just didn't want to stop talking. Finally the cell towers stopped our communications!

I don't know what it is about this man, but I have prayed and prayed and prayed that God bring a man to me that loved God first and foremost and that he was family oriented and guess what he was praying the same thing. He found my profile on the Christian dating site interesting as he said and then it just went from there!

Who knows where this is going to go for now, but I am loving the ride right now and I thought these kinds of feelings were buried deep inside of me never to resurface ever and they have flooded out.

When you find someone who wants to pray with you and wants to continue a life together only with GOD being center of it, it makes you appreciate what is standing in front of you and make you leave all those insecurities behind and step forward into what can be. No one but God at this time knows what will happen here, but I am excited to see what is going to happen!

I have a dear couple who I have been friends for years with. I watch their marriage and their love for each other and their love for God and I have always wanted that in my life. ALWAYS... Never thought it could be a possibility with my track record, but turning it all over to God makes the difference.

Sunday in spring!

2010-04-11T17:25:00.006-05:00

My niece, Lacy
My son, Brian and his wife, Codie

The Birthday boy!

My Niece, Rachel and I

Brian and Juan after throwing the football.

Lacy and I

The Brian Butler family and baby too. They are 4 months pregnant! Can't wait to be a grandma again!

Today was an awesome day and with family to share it with made it even better! My son and his wife came down for the day and we had a quick picnic and then off to the Grandma's and Grandpa's house. Some of my nieces and nephew came over as well and we had fun getting caught up on each other's lives. The boys played football and bonded over a manly sport! LOL

And the "grandpuppy's" 1st birthday was today and he was there to join us. Happy Birthday Petey! And happy 21st Birthday to my nephew, Derrick who had to work and didn't get to join us.

Easter Weekend...

2010-04-04T18:06:00.003-05:00

My sister, Gina and I
Our Mom with us girls

Niece, Rachel and sister, Gina

Me.....

We had Easter dinner at my parent's house today. We had a small group this year. There were just 6 of us.

We are hoping next year to have all 4 of my grandbabies there for a easter egg hunt like we use to do when my kids were small. It was nothing for us to hide well over 200 eggs for 6 children. I think the adults liked it more than the kids. The men in the family would hide the eggs and then let the kids go for it!

Hope everyone had an awesome Easter!

Spring time!

2010-04-03T17:20:00.002-05:00

I love this time of the year, everything is new, blooming, and fresh! I took apart a flower bed that was here when I moved in. The landlord told me it had bulbs in it and now I have tulips, Hyacinthia's, and iris's coming up.

I relocated all the iris's in a more organized fashion and then fought crab grass and bermuda grass for over 3 hours. My hands are sore but it looks like a nice clean canvas just ready for me to add to it!

I can't wait to get more flowers in it and watch it grow! I am loving the sounds of lawnmowers going today. I will hit mine this week sometime. It just isn't tall enough yet to justify it to me!

I hope everyone is enjoying themselves this weekend!

Sunshine Award

2010-03-30T16:45:00.006-05:00

I was nominated for the Sunshine award by: Beth http://whohidthedonuts.blogspot.com/ THANKS Beth... you put a smile on my face all day!

SUNSHINE AWARD RULES
The Sunshine Award is awarded to bloggers whose positivity and creativity inspire others in the blogging world.

Once you receive one, then you:

1. Post the logo on your blog.

2. Pass the award on to 12 fellow bloggers.

3. Link the nominees

4. Let nominees know they have won this award by commenting on their blog.

5. Share the love and link to the person you received this award from.

I would like to nominate the following bloggers in no particular order & pass on the happiness :)

1. Laurie http://laurieannbennett.blogspot.com/

2. Beth http://whohidthedonuts.blogspot.com/

3. Jodi http://jodyvworld.blogspot.com/

4. Kathy http://newbeginnings-kathyd.blogspot.com/

5. Helen http://reddirtwoman.blogspot.com/

6. Airman Mom http://airmanmom.blogspot.com/

7. Tracey http://downsizemystomach.blogspot.com/

8. MindyNTexas http://skinnyintexas.blogspot.com/

9. Robynn http://robynnsravings.blogspot.com/

10. Docsly http://healthierdocsly.blogspot.com/

11. Jen http://updatesfromthecoxfamily.blogspot.com/

12 The Dash http://carasquest.blogspot.com

All of these ladies have been an inspiration to me through their blogs and they have helped me through trying times with the band and have been there through my victories as well! I have more I could have nominated but these 12 ladies we at the top of my list! Thank you all for your support and you are MY SUNSHINE!

Grandbabies!!!

2010-03-28T18:19:00.001-05:00

Newest photo of the three little Princesses! Constance is 4 1/2, Ivy is 3 and Paige is 2 1/2 months!

Isn't that just a cutie pie!?!?!?!?!

Home again!

2010-03-28T18:12:00.003-05:00

Taking a hike at State Park
My beautiful daughter-in-law almost 4 months pregnant!

My son at work! He loves his mommy!

Gonna be three of the best grandma's around for this new baby!

One photo from my hike

Well, I had a blast visiting my son and his wifey. They are expecting their first baby in October of this year. Her mom's and I are so excited about this upcoming event.

I had a great time with the kids, her family and just laughing, watching the sweet 16 games (which didn't end the way we wanted but oh well! There is always next year!) and making memories!

GOOD TIMES!

Getting away!

2010-03-25T17:13:00.002-05:00

I am out of here....... I am leaving in the a.m. early (before first light) and heading north to spend time with my son and daughter-in-law! Haven't seen him since November and her since December. So I am long overdue. And to rub the belly that holds my newest grandbaby! I can't wait to be there and see her and hug my baby! I might freak her out but she will get use to it... LOL

I have one more week of classes but plan on having it all done by this coming Monday and then I will actually have 2 weeks of Spring Break from school until classes start back up! I plan on getting in some long overdue scrabooking time. I have so many photos to deal with and basically love doing those of the grandbabies.

Have a great weekend everyone! Check back in with you next week.....

Emerging....

2010-03-18T19:57:00.002-05:00

I felt today like I was emerging from a deep hibernation! The sun was shining, birds chirping and I took a 2 mile walk. It was just glorious....

As I sit here an it is 8 p.m. you can see a faint red glow in the west. I love this time of year.

After my walk I sat on the deck and read a magazine that came in the mail today and didn't rush, just enjoyed the warm breeze, the birds, flowers starting to shoot their little heads up out of the dirt.

Tomorrow is even suppose to be better than today. BUT we won't talk about the weekend! Possible snow AGAIN in the forecast! Gotta love MO weather!

Happiness....

2010-03-17T21:18:00.002-05:00

Today I am officially over half done with my first mini-term and still have A's in both classes! I signed up for next two classes starting first couple weeks of April.

Spring break comes first! I still have to work but my nights will be open for another passion of mine. Scrapbooking. I need to get some more done as that new grandbaby will be here in approx. 7 months and I will have to start his/her album then!

I have tulips coming up in a flower bed that looked overgrown by crab grass. So the first warmer day I will get out there and clean it out a bit so it looks better and put my own annuals in there to go with the bulbs that are coming in.

Life is good!

30th Annual St. Patty's Day Parade

2010-03-13T16:53:00.002-06:00

Happy St. Patty's Day
My cousins, Debbie and Judy and myself... Cold drizzly day but we had fun!

Co-worker's daughter, Sam... collecting beads!

Cutie next to us. His first parade! He was lovin' it!

Mr. Cool Dude!

Today was the 30th Annual St. Patty's Day parade in Springfield. It was cold and drizzly all morning. Right before the parade started it stopped raining! It was still cold but we had fun! The kids now think this is better than Halloween! LOL

Great day with family and friends!

I am doing it....

2010-03-10T11:20:00.002-06:00

Well, first Spring is starting to show it's beautiful little head around here and I am so excited about that.

I am into the end of Week 3 of my first set of classes. A's in both classes at this point. I have to say I really like the online courses, will be taking actually classes in classroom this next term and then might decide to see which way I want to go. Only part of the classes so far that are really starting to tick me off is the teamwork presentations. When you have a group of 10 people and only 2 have even tried to contribute it is mind blowing. 2 hours before the deadline to turn in our project a few came on and said, "What do you want us to do?" I am like... seriously! You have had an entire week and you wait until 2 hours before midnight. I was team leader that week so I had already uploaded our work (Mine and Melissa's) and the rest were just out of luck. I did give them 3 different deadlines and they missed them all. I wasn't a total control freak! LOL

This week is going the same way. So Melissa and I have each other's backs!

Well, the 10 lbs I lost has all stayed off except for 1 1/2 lb and I am working on getting it to go away again! Feel really good about my weight now and the ability to get outside and take a walk is wonderful! Love this time of year....

First College Paper...

2010-03-03T20:17:00.003-06:00

I have my first paper to do this week and I had to choose a problem that effects us on either a local, state, national or international level and then use a 5 step program to solve the problem. Well, I have chosen "Childhood Obesity in America". I feel like I can relate to this subject.

I wasn't obese when I was a child but I was over weight. I was active because 30 years ago we were made to be active! I was made to work outside and do things for the few farm animals we had, mow the lawn, work in the garden, etc.... We didn't have the technological gadgets we have now and I believe that in itself has brought on alot of the obesity issues for children and adults in America. I remember getting our first microwave when I was in high school and it was such a big deal! Now if you don't have a laptop, gaming system or multiple gaming systems, Ipod, fancy cell phone, BIG screen TV, DVD/Blueray player you aren't anybody! Well I guess I ain't anybody because I don't own much of the before mentioned items!

So this paper is really hitting home for me, because as an adult I was obese and morbidly obese. I think I have found the solution to my obesity issues through the lap band and life style changes. I know most of my issues came from past life experiences, holding it all in and stuffing my feelings. Life is so much better and I am in a much better place. I hope I do this paper justice!

Life with the band...

2010-03-01T09:18:00.002-06:00

I have had some good news on the lapband front as well!

I have lost almost 13 lbs all together in the last month. BUT 10 lbs of that was because of the dreaded stomach bug that is going on around this area! BUT... I have kept it off and that is the main point! I have gotten into new clothes that have been "hanging around" waiting for me to put them on! I have about 2 more sizes just hanging around and then i will have to start shopping for new clothes!

Our biggest loser club at work is still going strong. I have heard that we have a few people who have quit on us, but that is their issues. I am still going strong and the weather around here is starting to look better.

We had a pretty bad time of it this winter with all kinds of bad stuff! I know other regions had it worse than we did, but we are generally use to a pretty mild winter and this time it was anything but mild.

It should be in the 50's by the weekend! Party!!!!!

I am back, FINALLY....

2010-03-01T09:08:00.002-06:00

I finally have internet service at home now so I stay up with my blogging better!

I have had a major life change in the last month! I started back to College! I decided I was as far as I was going to go in my department with the State of Missouri and that if I wanted a positive change in my work environment and financially I would have to grab the bull by the horns and make things happen.

I did some research of different jobs within the state that interested me and I have always been intrigued by Law. So then I researched local colleges/universities around the area and I ended up have a meeting with Everest College who is supported by Corinthian Colleges. I had an appt. on a Friday afternoon and was signed up for a Paralegal major in less than 2 hours!

When the college was under the name of Phillips Jr. College, I went there so most of my (90%) general education classes are going to transfer over. So I have already started taking my core classes.

My first 6 weeks are a mini course and are online. They didn't have a traditional class for me to sit in because of all my general ed classes transferring over so I am on the internet now taking Intro to Paralegal Studies and Critical Thinking.

My actual term classes start in April! I have had to stop and learn to prioritize my time better. I have just been so bored and nothing to do that I didn't need a schedule to be bored! Now I have to think ahead of what I need to do and when to turn it in and make it work!

I am very intrigued by the paralegal field and there are quite a few opportunities within the state I can choose from; Public defenders office, Attorney General's office and the Legislature in Jefferson City working in the research department. And I can go in the private sector as well. I just need a few months to be vested in my retirement with the state and could move on. I have so many options at my feet.

Life is great!

Playing Catch up!

2010-02-06T10:15:00.003-06:00

Not alot happening right now. Our biggest loser office team is doing really well. We have had a couple people have to pay their dollar for a gain but for the most part we are all on track.

I know we would see great numbers if we were NOT living inside a "snow globe" right now. It snows, accumulates, have a few days without any and then BAM it is back again! Monday we are suppose to get 6+ inches AGAIN...

Flying south for the winter is sounding pretty good right now!

Office Biggest Loser Group..

2010-01-28T12:55:00.002-06:00

We have 9 participants in our office group and first week the group collectively lost 15.9 lbs. Only a couple of us had to pay the $1.00 for a weight gain. I was one of those few.

This week is going to be much better. I had a visitor last week and that is why the gain... She is gone now for atleast 3 more weeks!!!!!!

Finally.....

2010-01-16T09:37:00.003-06:00

Proud Grandma!

Miss Paige Victoria Singell

One week old!

Paige Victoria Singell

2010-01-09T13:51:00.001-06:00

Has arrived! January 8th 2010, 3:09 p.m.

She weighed in at 7 lbs and 5 ozs. and 19.5 inches long!

Mommy and baby are doing fine. When I get a couple pics on the computer I will post them!

2010....

2010-01-02T10:56:00.003-06:00

Well, bringing in 2010 was quiet at my house... unless I was snoring at midnight! I was pretty lonely and wishing I had someone to spend it with. But, it wasn't to be.

Maybe next year......

Hope everyone had a wonderful New Year's eve and day! Back to the grind... I love my routine.... weekends can get too long sometimes!

Blizzard in Kansas!

2009-12-25T17:30:00.002-06:00

Heather
David and Ivy after sledding down a hill!

David and Constance climbing back up the hill!

Okay, I have to explain! This is what we found for me to wear! My son-in-laws army boots, jacket and his "Grumpy" hat from Disney World! Laugh if you must!!!!

Out the back door of the house on Christmas morning!

At this time it is Christmas night and it hasn't stopped snowing all day long! It is so pretty to look at but it could stop at any time for me now. I need to head south on Sunday and would love to be able to make the trip smoothly....

It is suppose to snow most of the day tomorrow also......

At this point 8+ inches of snow with drifts of up to 2-3 feet high in some spots in this area!

Well... we got our White Christmas!

My Fitness Christmas......

2009-12-25T17:25:00.003-06:00

Yes, this is me on Christmas morning in my "Ducky" pajama's with my new exercise stuff I asked my daughter for!

I can't wait to use the kettlebell!

My favorite Christmas (as a child!)

2009-12-24T13:41:00.002-06:00

Well, 1977 was a rough year in our family. We had moved back to the Bolivar, MO area from Arkansas and we were told Santa was having a tough year making toys that year.

I was actually in 7th grade and knew that meant my parents were having a tough year. So we were told we could ask for one present and that was it.

Well, that was fine by me. I only wanted one thing anyway. I wanted this art set I had seen in the Sears catalog. I remember getting that catalog in the mail and the four of us would pour over it and just wish for so much, marking our pages or writing our names by what we wanted.

Well, Santa did bring me that art set that year. It was years later (as an adult) that I found out that my parents had to go to the state for assistance that winter and didn't have hardly any money. My gift was more than they had planned to spend, but knowing my love for art they made sure it was under the tree. It meant alot to me that Christmas morning but years later it meant much more.

Thanks Mom and Dad!

Me and My sissy!

2009-12-24T13:34:00.002-06:00

My sister, Gina and I at our family Christmas...I love this one of us!

Where have I been!?!?!?!?

2009-12-24T13:30:00.001-06:00

Well, I come back from my mini vacation and the IT guys have blocked EVERYTHING off the state computers. I guess I shouldn't complain and it has made for more productive days...

Funny part, you can still go to Craigslist.... maybe they use it often...

Oh well.... No baby grandaughter yet! Heather has made it to 37 weeks, longer than she has ever gone before.

I am in Kansas with them again this Christmas weekend to see the girls open their gifts.

I will post Christmas pics soon...

Merry Christmas everyone!

Photos....

2009-12-14T18:51:00.004-06:00

Little Ivy turned 3!
The little Redneck that attended the party! RJ

Big Sister, Constance!

Anticipation.....

My daughter-in-law, Codie her mom, Penny and friend Alycia giving Constance a major tickle party! At the baby shower for my newest Granddaughter, Paige!

Special outfit for Paige from grandma Ronda

Wilda, checking out the poopy diaper game!

Jessica (she gave Heather the shower), Heather and friend Johanna! All Army wives!!!!

Mommy to be!

Table set with goodies for the shower....

The last few days have been busy with a baby shower, birthday party for Ivy and it seems like it was all rolled into one day instead of two. There were 4 tired ladies here last night and tonight.

I head back to my quiet, boring life tomorrow and back to work. I will miss these two little girls. But I feel like I did my job as Heather didn't go into labor and the contractions basically stopped for now. Daddy will be home on Wednesday and all will be good in the world!

Today I had to go outside a couple times and the girls will say, " Grandma, don't leave!"... it warms my heart and hurts it all at the same time. I love them and don't want to leave them at all. But, at this time Grandma's life is in southern Missouri. One day we will all hopefully be in the same area!

Back to my life!

Best Birthday ever~~~

2009-12-11T18:21:00.003-06:00

Today was my 46th Birthday and I got to celebrate it with two special little girls and my daughter... we had a good day!

Fun in the SNOW!

2009-12-09T06:02:00.004-06:00

My daughter, Heather out in the snow.

We got about 3 inches yesterday morning and it wasn't bitterly cold, so we wrapped up the girls and headed out. They had a blast. We got another 3 last night and now it is rigidly cold out there. So no more snow fun until atleast tomorrow.

My girls!

2009-12-05T20:35:00.003-06:00

Constance
Ivy

Today, I took the girls to see Santa and left mommy at home to rest. I bought the girls these plush, cozy blankies and they loved them! So their mommy took our pictures together today with the infamous blankies of course!

They are both finally asleep now and wrapped up in their now "2" favorite blankets. The ones I bought them when they were born and now this one.

They both told me today, Grandma I love you!.... makes a grandma's heart sing!

Baby Watch....

2009-12-04T19:10:00.002-06:00

My daughter at 34 weeks
Bed rest....

Well, I got here on Monday afternoon and they released her at 4 p.m.... she had low potassium, bladder infection and dehydration. She was given antibiotics IV and then sent home to take more. She was told to be a couch potato (not complete bedrest) but close to it. She had one night she went out with a friend but they just went to the movies and she sat and then they came directly home.

Today she had a dr. appt and is dialated to 2 cm. and was told to basically be on bedrest but she can sit on the sofa if she wants. So basically she can get up to go to the bathroom and eat. Then back to resting....

Heather doesn't think she is going to make it much longer but you never know. She had the other two at 36 weeks. Doctors have told her that is probably her norm and she would never go to 40 weeks.

So we were told to be on Baby Watch and play it by ear. She has another appt. next friday so hope to find out more then!

I tell you what, I am so NOT use to caring for a family. It has been quite a few years since I have had anyone to really take care of and clean up after and I am getting wore out and I can tell I am losing weight because I haven't really stopped the entire time I have been here! I guess my granddaughter's are good for my weight loss!

My tight jeans are NOT tight anymore!

Baby Paige and her mommy....

2009-11-30T07:01:00.002-06:00

Well yesterday evening my daughter called and she was having contractions. Normally this would be welcome news but she is only 33 weeks pregnant. Much too early for Paige to show up!

So her friend, Jessica took her and 3 toddlers to the hospital and they admitted her. She was dialated to a 1 and having regular contractions. They gave her something to stop the contractions which made Heather's BP bottom out so then went on the oxygen mask to get her back up to normal.

the contractions stopped but started up again so they decided to keep her over night. I just finished texting my son-in-law and he said sometime during the night the contractions stopped.

Not sure if they are going to want her to be on bed rest. Which mean Grandma to the rescue as Dad is in training at a different army base and can't leave.

Just asking for prayers that little Miss Paige decides to be content to stay in her mommy for a bit longer!

Walk...

2009-11-28T10:51:00.002-06:00

Well this a.m. I got up and starting drinking the water for my walk. I put on my new FM scanner radio for walking and headed out!

I took a deep breath and it smelled like Spring! I loved it.... I did a 4 1/2 mile walk and could have went further, but I have alot on my list of things to do today so I will be busy all day!

The trail I walk is now paved most of the way, I think I miss the gravel trail though... :-(

The direction I went this a.m. goes by the back of the Springfield airport. I felt a low rumble in my feet and look up and there is a jet flying right about my head just above the tree line! And it lands not 50 yards on the runway! So close I see the landing gear hit and dust fly... It was amazing and terrifying all at the same time. Three jet flew over my head on this walk and it was just so cool....

The food intake has been bad since Thanksgiving. I believe my band is tight because of hormones but I couldn't have asked for a better holiday to have it be tight with! I couldn't barely eat on Thankgiving and yesterday I ate whole wheat spagetti with maranara/ground turkey and only got two bites down. Then I had malt-o-meal for dinner. Only got a couple spoonfuls of it down too. This a.m. oatmeal went down but very slowly. Will try some baked fish later on!

Wonderful Thanksgiving Day!

2009-11-27T09:55:00.002-06:00

It was a good day to spend with family. I took a quick bike ride in the a.m., went to my parents house and tried to eat! I think I am thankful that I had a hard time with it this year! Got a small plate full in before it left me. Then my sister, Gina and niece, Rachel and I went for a 3 mile walk.

It was a good relaxing time! Hope everyone had a good Thanksgiving as well!

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO EACH AND EVERYONE OF YOU!!!

2009-11-25T15:41:00.000-06:00

WISHING EVERYONE A BLESSED HOLIDAY WITH FAMILY AND FRIENDS!

Newest Photo

2009-11-24T13:13:00.003-06:00

This is a photo of me before my surgery. Just from what you can see I was pretty heavy at that point. I believe it was the summer before my surgery.

This was my attempt to take a self portrait at the state conference. I think I look like a dork but a thinner dork!

Bandster Quiz...

2009-11-24T12:51:00.002-06:00

How long have you been banded? 1 year and 5 months

What was your highest pre-band weight? 315 lbs./ Current weight now? 235 lbs./ Total lost to date? 80 lbs.

What is your best "go-to" food to get in your protein? Fish or Chicken. I am on a big fish kick lately! It goes down very well on tight days.

What is your favorite protein brand/shake? I use low carb Slim Fast - chocolate - in the can. which is really good and then I buy the chocolate powder from Walmart. Not sure about the name of it though.

What food do you miss the most now being post-band? I would say beef ie... steak, ribs and stuff like that. I haven't really tried it yet so don't know if I can do it. I feel safer with the fish and chicken!

What is your favorite "mushy" food? Well if I am really tight I will use yogurts or mashed potatoes. And if not, I like cream of wheat or malt o meal!

What was your worst PB experience? My youngest grandaughter was sitting with me one night not too long after my surgery and she started to fall out of her chair. I had JUST put some food in my mouth and I gasped and sucked it down. I had a bad time getting it to come back up as I never even chewed it once.

What has been the hardest part of this journey so far for you? Honestly - I think it is seeing my new self. I still see me at 315 lbs and when I get compliments I just don't see it. Once in awhile I get a glimpse of the new me in a mirror and I feel, wow is that really me????

What is your best NSV to date? feeling better and being able to work out and be more active!

What is your top non-weight goal for your band? Man, this quiz is kinda hard. Well, I would say to maybe start dating again, but I won't say that for sure. I guess maybe having the confidence to go out there again.?!?!!?

What is your goal weight or size? Well the wall chart says 146 lbs and has for years! But my surgeon and I have kind of thrown around the 175 lb. number as I carry my weight well and when I was there last time I was in a size 12 and I was happy with that!

What band "rule" do you live by (i.e. don't cheat on)? I would say NO carbonated drinks and NO rice. I haven't even attempted those two things.

What band "rule" do you not follow as much or aren't so good at? Probably moving my behind more!

What is your goal "reward"? Well, I know what I want to do but don't know if it is possible! I would love to go on a Christian cruise for singles. And I might just have to do it for myself!

What are you most thankful for? The support I have here at work with my co-workers and my blogger friends. I have learned so much just from cruising your blogs! I might not always leave a comment but I have gotten a wealth of information for each one of you and inspriation as well!!!!

Week of Thanksgiving...

2009-11-23T07:29:00.002-06:00

On this week of Thanksgiving it is time to reflect on what you are thankful for this last year! I have so much to be thankful for and feel so blessed.

1. My Lord, My God.
2. The love of my children and their spouses
3. Those awesome grandbabies of mine and a new one on the way!
4. Family
5. Good Friends
6. Laughter
7. My band and my new life!
8. Having a job.....
9. The ability to get up in the a.m. and look forward to a new day!
10. My blogger friends!

and so much more, but those are my top ten! I am thankful to each and everyone in my life. You have made this a great 2009 for me!

Annual State Conference...

2009-11-18T07:02:00.000-06:00

Today I leave for our annual state conference in Columbia, MO. So wish me luck on the food issues as I will have to eat 4-5 meals out at restaurants and then 3 meals that the state offers and you don't really get a choice of anything. It is there, take it or leave it.

So I packed some protien bars and a couple other meals just incase I can't eat what is offered.

On the good point, I get to see my son and daughter-in-law as they live there! We are going to a mexican restaurant tonight. I am glad my intake is small so I know what amount not to order because I am going to waste it!

Have a great weekend everyone!

Gone but never Forgotten...

2009-11-17T09:42:00.001-06:00

National Cemetary Ft. Leavonworth, KS

Yesterday after Heather's ultrasound appt. we drove by the cemetary on base and it was snowing and it just sent chills down my spine. So I jumped out and took a couple pics with the snow falling. I bet it is just gorgeous in the fall as it is filled with Maple and Oak trees.

Measuring UP!

2009-11-15T13:01:00.001-06:00

Okay, on my weight loss journey note..... I measured my waist today and I am down an inch....

I wore my tighter jeans this weekend to my daughter's home and they have actually been a bit loose on me.

So one of my grandaughter's was carrying around a tape measure so I grabbed it and checked my waist!!!!!!!!!! I am really close to my lowest waist measurement in years!

Woo hoo!!!!

Dog Crate Training 101...

2009-11-15T12:40:00.003-06:00

Alpha Dog, tring to coax Apollo in new doggy crate!
Apollo checking it out for himself, with big guy in it!

Apollo is dog tired!

Okay, this poor guy has gone a little psycho since the move from Texas and that might be an understatement. The kids have tried everything from puppy sedatives, locking him in garage, and more and more.

They always come home to the same thing. Wherever he has been has been demolished, door jams broke and chewed on, everything turned upside down. He can jump the fence in the back so that isn't an option either.

So this is probably the last option for them. They bought a huge crate yesterday and watching them trying to coaxs this big dog inside has been comical at best!

The photos basically speak for themselves! But in the end, we found the best thing. BACON.... David threw a piece in the back and Apollo went right in! Now Heather, just needs to keep a strip of bacon around for just this reason!

Holiday Pitfalls......

2009-11-12T14:21:00.003-06:00

Okay, I have been cruising all my blogger friends blogs and some have mentioned the pitfalls of holiday food.

I love turkey, mashed potatoes, gravy, green bean casserole, sweet potatoes and more and more and more. But this year, it hasn't really bothered me like in the past! I had a thanksgiving meal yesterday at a veteran's assembly and I have basically a tablespoon of mashed potatoes/gravy, green beans, small slice of turkey breast and small dab of real crabberries and a small amount of some spice cake with butterscotch pudding on it. Enough, to give me 4 bites. AND I was satisfied with that.... I walked out of their all proud of myself!

I think alot of times the "Family Getting Together" can bring on the bingeing! But I believe this year the main stress factor in our family will be absent. And is unfortunate that she feels she needs to be this way, but in all honesty it makes the holiday a bit more enjoyable... I hate to feel this way, but having had this issue for many many years it is just easier on everyone involved...

So I am looking forward to Thanksgiving and Christmas this year without the forboding of past years!

Veteran's Day Assembly

2009-11-12T07:32:00.003-06:00

Rachel's art work. She is a senior and this is the first art class she has ever taken as she had to, to graduate! LOL
My parents. John Vote Jr., Marines 1958-1962 and Bonnie Vote

Rachel and her grandpa

Staff Sgt. Bolton was key speaker. He married an alumni from Marion C. Early

Rachel giving a speech on what, when and how TAPS was created and then a student played TAPS in the background.

Marion C. Early High School put on a Veteran's Day Assembly for area veterans. This is the first one I have attended. The Band and Choir were awesome! The National Honor Society did alot of the presentations for the assembly. My niece, Rachel is treasurer for the National Honors Society and she did a wonderful job!

They recognized each veteran that was present and their years of service and branch they were associated with. And if they were involved in any war or conflict. I knew almost all the gentlemen that were present and was good to see them again.

Then the group served a wonderful meal to the veteran's and their familys. It was my first Thanksgiving meal of the season!

I love how the United States is really starting to honor our veteran's I remember growing up and not really knowing what it was at all. I think what brought this nation together was the first Iraq war and 911. Since those two events patriotism is abundant and truly heartfelt.

The drama/speech group got up and did a skit that brought tears to my eyes. I was trying to keep it together but couldn't. They did an exceptional job.

Before/After..... busy weekend!

2009-11-09T07:15:00.003-06:00

Me goofin' around 2008.
Volunteering for Special Olympics-May 2008

Me this last weekend

I took this self portrait of myself over the weekend to see the difference in my face. Main reason is I saw two different people in the last week that I hadn't seen in the last couple (3-4 years) and they didn't recognize me. So I wanted to compare to the photos of me before surgery.

I see a difference and my body has definately changed. I am finally OFF MY PLATEAU! I have lost 3 lbs in the last 2 weeks! Walking, moving and unpacking have sure helped!

This weekend I did 3 miles on Saturday a.m., then off to the "Little House on the Prairie" play with Melissa Gilbert. Her youngest son played Willie! Then Sunday I went over to my parents and helped them clean up from a huge, HUGE tree that they had taken down. I could barely walk after all that activity and still feel all the newly acquired aches and pains from yesterday! But the workout was awesome!

Tired, sluggish.... just blah

2009-11-05T07:21:00.001-06:00

Well I went to the doctor for my yearly exam and full blood work up. All I know at this time is my thyroid is messed up again and that explains alot of how I have been feeling lately.

I generally wake up early (4:30 a.m.), jump out of bed and get my day started, ie... morning person! Lately, I sleep until the alarm goes off and still can't get up and that is with a full night of drug induced sleep.

I am pretty much okay at work during the day, maybe getting the afternoon sleepies but okay. By the time I drive home I am so exhausted I can't do anything. I have noticed alot of aches and pains that aren't going away. (another sign of hypothyroidism).

So yesterday I researched different avenues to go with this problem. Of course, they are tweeking my medication but I wanted to be more pro-active and not just pop a pill. I found a new book out called "The Thyroid Solution". So I ordered it and hope to find some insight on how I can help myself out more.

I am only 45 (almost 46!) and I shouldn't feel this old! It just all started happening in a big way in the last couple months. So I am going to kick start my thyroid and get back out there and move!

Golden Age Games...

2009-11-02T08:21:00.002-06:00

Our office, Department of Health and Senior Services are priviledged to participate in the Golden Age games every year. We are invited to be judges and we have 3 different games to attend, Monett, Bolivar and Mtn. Grove.

I try and volunteer every year for the Bolivar games and this year 5 of us went from our office!

The Games are held for the long term care facilities in specific regions. They come together as teams and generally they use a theme for their facility. This year we had, "Butterfield Idol", MASH, 50's diner theme, Candyland theme and "Homemakeover" from the homemakeover that was in Ash Grove this year. The residents compete in cow milking, basket ball toss, soccer kick, horse shoes, wheel chair races, arts and crafts, BINGO, quiz bowl and my favorite is hog calling!

Front Row: Me of course, Kay-complaint team supervisor

Back Row: Les-Regional Manager, Terri-Nurse, Ron-Inspector

Fun "SPOOKY" Halloween.....

2009-11-01T06:22:00.006-06:00

The Grandma's with the girls!
Heather and all her little girls

Heahter painted Constance's face and did a great job!

Wanna lick???

We painted Heather's belly too!

Constance and I... Ivy was done with pictures at this point!

As Constance says, "Trick FOR Treat!"

Princess Ivy

Our Little Mermaid!

We spent the day doing fun crafts. The girls made candy necklaces, and Heather made brownies with Reeses peanut butter cups inside. Yummy....

Then we painted Heather's pregnant tummy to look like a pumpkin! So Paige got to dress up as well!

Sad night...

2009-10-28T06:52:00.002-05:00

I don't know how many of you are Biggest Loser Fans but I am. I only started really watching a couple seasons ago.

Last night's show was so sad for me. I will miss Abby.... She was such a sweet, inspiring person and she lifted everyone else up!

I can't even imagine how her life changed in the flash of a second losing her husband and both children instantly. And she is on the road to recovery with the Biggest Loser.

I ordered 3 different books from the Biggest Loser website. The one I am really excited about is the one titled, "Simple Swaps" and then I got the 30-day jump start and a cookbook. I saw the advertisement last night for the video game for wii or other gaming systems. I am going to look into it once I get the wii!!!!

You can't sit there and watch this show without being inspired, especially when they have their emotional break throughs on what is making them fat! Normally, it isn't the food as most of us who have been overweight know. It is something we have stuffed inside ourselves and refuse to deal with. I have known what mine is with the incest in my life. And now am working on issues with other family issues.

I felt so much like Shay last night when she broke down and just wanted her mother to love her for her. I feel that way (from my childhood).

I heard a quote the other day, "Childhood is what we spend the rest of our lives dealing with"! And I believe that totally...

Ahhh haaaa moment!

2009-10-26T10:06:00.002-05:00

Okay when we have our lapband support group meetings at St. John's once a month we have to go around the room give our names, surgery date, lbs. lost and our latest ahh haa moment. Well I can't wait until the 2nd monday in November to share mine so here goes.

I have this special place where my hip and waist connect that I use to carry babies, boxes and laundry baskets. It has ALWAYS been a great place for these purposes. Well Saturday I am doing laundry and as I was walking back to my apartment from the laundry area I had to stop 3 different times to readjust the baskets! The LARGE hip area isn't so large now and I can't keep the baskets up there like in the past.

As you could guess, this little thing made my day and I smiled all weekend! It might not be much to most people but it is a biggy for me. My hips are slimming down!!!

Walking DVD

2009-10-23T09:49:00.003-05:00

Well I put it in yesterday afternoon and was surprised at how much I liked it! It will be good on nasty rainy, snowy, icy days in Missouri that are forthcoming!

I am contemplating getting a Wii with my income tax return this year and then get the fitness attachment to it as well. I think I deserve to get something fun for myself as a reward for the progress I have made with the lap band. And I have played it once and loved it. It is a bit addicting!

And my son and son-in-law will have something to do while they visit me! And as the grandkids get older they can use it as well.

Checking in...

2009-10-22T06:50:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was a wash on the exercise as I was out with what I thought was a stomach bug with severe headache but turned out to be sinus issues and drainage was giving me symptoms of stomach flu. Once I got the sinus's cleared up with saline wash and lots of meds things started looking better!

I have another Dr. appt. on Monday and am going to corner her to help me out with maybe a prescription strenght sinus medication or referral to ENT to see if I have obstruction on the one side that is mainly affected. Ugghhhh I hate this! I can be feeling great and in an instant it hits.

I will pull out my new exercise DVD "Walking" tonight since we are being plaqued with rain for atleast the next 24 hours!

Happy 3rd Anniversary!

2009-10-20T08:10:00.002-05:00

Brian and Codie wedding day Oct. 20th 2006
Brian and Codie Spring 2009

Happy Anniversary Kiddos!
Love ya!!!!

Taa Daa!

2009-10-20T06:57:00.002-05:00

I went for a walk after work last night on the Ozark Trail and I jogged approx. 1/2 mile of it. Now anyone who knows me, knows that the ONLY time I run is when something is chasing me!

I felt so good doing it that I am going to get out every night after work and work on my endurance. I have a cousin who ran a mile for the first time without stopping not too long ago. She hinted she may try and run the Turkey Trot 5k on Thanksgiving day. This year is the 14th annual Turkey Trot and I am thinking of trying it as well.

So my newest goal is to be able to jog a 5k or most of it anyway!

Last night this beautiful brunette (20 something) ran past me like a gazelle. I wanted to be her so bad. She wasn't even breathing hard! I thought to myself if I had done that at 20 something I wouldn't be fighthing it right now! But then I shook my head and all the negativity was gone! I am out there NOW and that is what counts! YEAH ME....