A Year Later

It has been one year since I found my world shaken to the core. To find that one of the most important women in my life would never be there again. A year of grieving from time to time...songs that would make me cry, TV story lines that had me bawling like a baby, and writing memories that had me curled up on the floor sobbing for an hour.

I know that people say it takes time, but I don't think that time has come yet. I saw a picture that Kalla had posted on Facebook a couple weeks ago and it was harder now than it was then. I think the reality that she will never be here again is becoming a reality.

There is so much that I think about that she will never be a part of and the things she instilled in me that I will be responsible for passing on. As I am writing I am holding back tears that I know if I let come may not stop for quite awhile. I see her in so many of the things I enjoy and do, and I struggle with knowing that I am alone in them, that her being there is just a memory.

*This woman was the one who taught me to love coffee, though what she introduced me to was milk and sugar with a bit of coffee. :)

*This woman introduced to me a world of reading...buying books, introducing me to books, discussing books with me.

*This woman knew that my favorite breakfast was scrambled eggs with ketchup and toast topped with cinnamon sugar...and made it for me every morning I was there.

*This woman tried to be a part of all my interests...she was my loudest cheerleader at school plays, she watched Schindler's List with me when I was fascinated with learning about the Holocaust.

*This woman was so protective she would not go to her friend's house across unless I was with--even as a teenager.

*This woman would still let me sit on her lap even when I become too busy to visit.

*This woman sent a funny birthday card every year--mostly through email!

*This woman gave me a mom who was loving and caring.

A year later I am still sad to know that my children will never get to sit in her lap and hear her tell stories of the crazy things I did. I will never have a picture of my children with her. I have the responsibility of instilling in my children all she did for me. They will never see how goofy and crazy she was. I struggle to remember what her voice sounds like, not the way she was at the end but how she was as I grew.

I grieve that when she was sick, I didn't take the time to visit, because I thought I had time. I didn't want to believe that the cancer would win and in the end it didn't. She won...she became pain-free and got to go home.

So, today I remember how great she was and celebrate that she is happy, but just know, Mimi I love you and miss you!

Day 30...Better Late than Never

Finally posting day 30! I finished the challenge!

Day 30--Monday, August 30, 2010
Tank: Old Navy via Outlet
Cardi: Target
Pants: Old Navy via Thrift Store
Shoes: Payless via Thrift Store (not pictured)

Catch-up: Days 26-29

I have been super busy and not able to post...but I have to get these up before the challenge is up!

Day 26--Thursday, August 26, 2010
Top: Ann Taylor via Thrift Store
Capris: Wal-Mart
Shoes: Crocs via Outlet
Scarf: Forever 21

As I have learned throughout the challenge, these pants are not high enough on the waist to successfully be pulled off with the shirt.

Day 27--Friday, August 27, 2010
*No pic--today was one of those come home and get in my pajamas. Being a girl sucks!
Tank: Old Navy via Outlet
Cardi: Target via Thrift Store
Pants: Ann Taylor via Thrift Store
Shoes: Target
Necklace: Claires

I wore navy and brown today and I liked it!

Day 28--Saturday, August 28, 2010
*No pic--no excuse, I just forgot!
Capris: Old Navy via Thrift Store
Tank: Old Navy via Outlet
Shoes: Old Navy
T-shirt @ Car Wash: Compass

Comfort was the key since I was at the car wash in the morning!

Day 29--Sunday, August 29, 2010
Tank: Target
Skirt: Aero
Cardi: Target (not pictured)
Shoes: Old Navy
Necklace: Forever 21

I love this skirt more and more each time I wear it!

Day 2 of change

Today was a day of no exercise...I had to be at work at 6:30!

Breakfast was a banana, dry multigrain cheerios and a glass of milk.
Lunch was a grilled chicken breast, grilled peppers and squash, and garlic green beans from Whole Foods. Raspberry water too!
Dinner was a gyro and saratoga chips with water.
Dinner may have done me in for. Today was one of those days...being a girl made me feel like crap all day. After working 10.5 hours, then grocery shopping...I needed comfort food, for me that is a gyro! Dessert was an Amish Chocolate Chip Cookie Sandwich from Jungle Jim's with milk!

We'll see at weigh-in tomorrow if it really affected me!

25 accomplished...almost done!

Day 25--Wednesday, August 25, 2010
Top: Target
Skirt: Old Navy via Outlet
Shoes: Target
Belt: ???

I loved the belt over the shirt! I have amazed myself on how I have tried new things and most of them have been successful.

24 done!

Day 24--Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Tank: Old Navy
Cardi: Forever 21
Pants: Old Navy via Thrift Store
Shoes: Steve Maddens via Thrift Store

I loved this outfit. Black and yellow usually makes someone look like a bumblebee! But the gray balances it all out and just looks fun!

Day 1 of change

I got up and exercised!
I walked for 30 minutes and did 10 minutes on the StairMaster. How do I feel...tired, but physically I am energized. I feel good that I did something healthy and something that makes me feel better.

Breakfast this morning consisted of a protein bar, banana, and a cup of OJ!
Lunch this afternoon lean cuisine meal, side salad, yogurt, and raspberry flavored water.
Dinner was a french bread pizza and fresh pear with peppermint iced tea.
I cheated by having some fresh baked chocolate chip cookies too!

Interrupted break...

One thing I have learned through this 30 day challenge...I love my clothes, but certain ones bring attention to body parts/features that I would rather hide.
Most of these parts/features I do not like can be fixed with exercise and healthy eating.
My little sister, who is a huge inspiration to me is chronicling her weight lost here. So to support Sara and feel better about myself, I am going to change the way I do things. Each day I am going to try to chronicle my weight, eating habits, and exercise. Some days I will do great, others I will probably fail.
Along with this change, I have set goals like Sara. New workout shoes, a pedicure, and a new outfit (not from the thrift store :).

So here is where I began. I want to weigh 115 by December 31, 2010. I came to this number after researching what weight is appropriate for my body type/build. Today I weigh 127.

The plan/rewards:
123--I buy new workout shoes.
119--I get a pedicure.
115--I buy myself a new outfit.

Week 3 Review

This week was a good week! I look at the pictures and like what I see. No real improvements needing to be made.

Favorites this week: Day 15--wearing a dress as a shirt, a first! and Day 16...how I had always envisioned wearing this shirt!
Least favorite: None really, though Day 18 may have been the most questionable this week.

Twenty-Three

Day 23--Monday, August 23, 2010
Top: Gap
Skirt: Target
Shoes: Target
Scarf: Forever 21

I loved this! The scarf as a belt, hid the high waist giving the ensemble a different look. The scarf hid my waist too, which is always a plus!
Last time I wore this sweater tucked in, I was not a fan...today I loved it! I opted to tie the belt over the belt loops instead of through...being able to hide the things I did not like.

Two-Two!

Day 22--Sunday, August 22, 2010
Tank: Target
Shorts: Wal-Mart
Shoes: Target
Cardi: Forever 21 (not pictured)
Scarf: Forever 21

I destroyed my makeshift tri-pod and was too lazy to fix it. So a mirror shot it was. This was one of those outfits that I thought was cute on, but when I saw the pic I loved it!
It was perfect for all I did today and having the cardi made it versatile for indoors/outdoors!

Forever 21 with no pic!

Day 21--Saturday, August 21, 2010
There is no picture!
Keith and I spent the day together and then had to clean the house...so I changed into cleaning clothes...forgetting I needed a pic.
But I wore today:
Dress: Forever 21 via Thrift Store
Cardi: Forever 21
Shoes: Old Navy

COMFORTABLE was key today!

Ten..TWENTY!

Day 20--Friday, August 20, 2010
Tank: Old Navy via Outlet
Cardi: Forever 21
Capris: Wal-Mart
Shoes: Payless via Thrift Store
Belt: ???
Necklace: Kohls

This outfit was comfy and being 2/3 of the way through comfy is key! The khaki and gray combo was nice too!

Number 19--Happy Anniversary!

Day 19--Thursday, August 19, 2010
Tank: Old Navy via Outlet
Cardi: Target
Skirt: Gap via Thrift Store
Shoes: Aerosoles via Thrift Store

Today was my 5th anniversary!
I loved the color combo in the outfit, neutral with the navy and white and a pop of color with the cardi.
Not sure what happened to the pic. I had a head and then it disappeared!

Legal at 18

Day 18--Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Tank: Target
Top: Tank
Capris: Forever 21
Shoes: Payless via Thrift Store
Necklace: Handmade by Me

This is my casual work outfit. No tucking in, just comfy and wearable.

17 again

Day 17--Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Top: Old Navy via Outlet
Skirt: Old Navy via Outlet
Shoes: Payless via Thrift Store

Wearing this all day I was unsure of what it looked like, but the picture makes it look good!

Look Back on Days 8-14

Favorite of Week 2: Day 12--I loved the gray and green combo!
Least Favorite, Wish I Could Re-do of Week 2: Day 10, just not loving the look together.

Sweet Sixteen

Day 16--Monday, August 16, 2010
Top: Ann Taylor via Thrift Store
Pants: Ann Taylor via Thrift Store
Shoes: Target
Belt: Kohls

This is how this top was meant to be worn, remember week 1 when it did not work as planned to tuck it in? Solution: High waisted pants and I loved the outcome. See the glasses on my head, this happens a lot...I forget they are there!

Half Way There--FIFTEEN!

Day 15--Sunday, August 15, 2010
Dress: Forever 21 via Thrift Store
Cardi: Target via Thrift Store
Skirt: Old Navy via Outlet
Shoes: Target

I loved wearing the dress as a top. It was the perfect structure and fit to accompany the skirt!

Four...teen

Day 14--Saturday, August 14, 2010
Tank: Target
Shorts: Old Navy via Thrift Store
Shoes: Crocs via Outlet

It was a hot day and I was running errands, attending meetings, and just getting stuff done!

The Baker's Dozen

Day 13-Friday, August 13, 2010
Tank: Old Navy via Outlet
Jacket: Kohls via Outlet
Skirt: Target via Thrift Store
Shoes: Target
Glasses: Garage Sale
Belt: Kohls?

Today was a hot day and as soon as I was in the car, the jacket came off! I actually liked the outfit better without the jacket, but a tank top is not allowed at work :(

An Even Dozen

Day 12--Thursday, August 12, 2010
Tank: Target
Cardi: Forever 21
Capris: Forever 21
Shoes: Target
Belt: Aero
Necklace: Claires?

Wearing the belt over my tank is a new thing...the verdict's still out. Knotting it instead of looping inspired by academichic. Love these long tanks, perfect for covering less than favorite body parts and just elongate everything!

Give Me an E...L...E..oh just give me 11!

Day 11--Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Top: Target
Skirt: Gap via Thrift Store
Shoes: Crocs via Outlet

This pic was my favorite, but I didn't have on my shoes! Again with the tucked in shirt and high skirt, I think I have a favorite style! Also, Target tissue tees are the best for tucking in! Super soft and light they blouse just right and look so cute...plus in 100+ degree weather, they are so lightweight!

Count them...10 Fingers Up!

Day 10--Tuesday, August 10, 2010
Sweater: Gap via Garage Sale
Pants: Old Navy via Thrift Store
Shoes: Payless via Thrift Store
Scarf: Kohls? came with a pair of pants I bought

I love these pants! I'm fond of the sweater. Together, they just don't do much for me. It was a comfortable outfit and I could move around in it, but it did not wow me!

Completed 9 Innings--I mean days!

Day 9-Monday, August 9, 2010
Tank: Old Navy via Outlet
Cardi: Target via Thrift Store
Skirt: Old Navy via Outlet
Shoes: Steve Madden via Thrift Store
Glasses: Garage Sale Freebie

Again trying a skirt at a higher waist and tucked in. I like the skirt and tank, but this cardi drives me crazy...probably the reason I hadn't worn it in awhile. The buttons don't stay closed, I am constantly playing with it to get it to lay right, so I decided that after these 30 days, she will be retired (going to Goodwill).

Day 8--not a normal day

There is no picture for Day 8-Sunday, August 8, 2010.
Here's the story:

I go to get dresses in the outfit I had planned. The black long-sleeve button down I was going to wear was HUGE on me! Why had I ever bought something so big, I have not lost that much weight. So I go in my drawer to find a short-sleeve or long-sleeve black tee and what do I discover...I DO NOT OWN ONE! 1st thing to buy when I can shop: a black tee!
So I put on a black blouse from my closet, not a favorite but it would work. I get to church and am told that we are wearing our new shirts that were printed. The t-shirt was not going to work over the blouse, so blouse off, t-shirt on. By the time we got home we decided that we were going to have a t.v./movie day, so on go my p.j.s to be most comfortable.
So no picture was taken on this day for the 10 minutes I was in my completed outfit!

Week 1 Review

This has been easy for week 1! Let's see if it continues to be easy!

Favorite outfit of week 1: Day 6!
Lease favorite of week 1: Day 2.

7 Days Makes One Week Down

Day 7-Saturday, August 7, 2010
Top: Old Navy via Outlet
Skirt: Aero
Shoes: Crocs via Outlet

The perfect outfit for a hot day. Ran errands, grocery shopped, and cleaned. This skirt has been around for awhile--I've had it since high school. It fits perfect now and must have been huge when I wore back then!
With K. working second shift now I have to learn to take the pictures myself. This resulted in me cutting off a chunk of my head in this photo.

Day 6 *No Original Title Today*

Day 6-Friday August 6, 2010
Top: Target
Pants: Ann Taylor via Thrift Store
Shoes: Target
Belt: Kohls?
Necklace: Wal-Mart

I was surprised at how much I liked this outfit. I admit it took seeing the picture to really like it.

Rounding out 5

Day 5-Thursday, August 5, 2010
Skirt: Old Navy via Thrift Store
Cardi: Forever 21
Tank (under cardi): Target
Belt: Aero
Shoes: Payles via Thrift Store

This look is new for me. High-waisted belted skirt...never thought I could pull it off, but it has become a favorite. Yellow tank under cardi...could just see the punch of color under the crocheted front piece.

Here are some outtakes from the shoot!

Cheesy smile...or "I've had enough!"

Caught readjusting everything!

4 Out the Door

Day 4-Wednesday, August 4, 2010
Shorts: Wal-Mart
Tank: Target
Jacket: Kohls via Thrift Store
Shoes: Target
Necklace: My Mimi's

This outfit has to be my favorite by far! It was comfortable and the perfect mix or work and fun. After work when meeting up with people, I took of the jacket to stay cool in this 100 degree weather!

Three's a Charm

Day 3-Tuesday, August 3, 2010
Skirt: Gap via Thrift Store
Tank: Old Navy via Outlet
Cardi: Target via Thrift Store
Shoes: Aerosoles via Thrift Store
Necklaces: Claires

This skirt is my favorite and super comfy! I kept it casual by keeping the tank untucked and long. A perfect outfit...but had I known I was going to be disassembling cribs at work, I would have switched outfits for the day! :)

Double Trouble

Day 2: Monday, August 2, 2010
Shirt: Ann Taylor via Thrift Store
Pants: Old Navy via Thrift Store
Shoes: Steve Madden via Thrift Store
Necklace: My Mimi's

I loved today's outfit, but it didn't go exactly the way I planned. I had originally planned on tucking in the shirt but every time I sat down and stood up pieces would come undone. So after 15 minutes, I said screw it and untucked it. Still cute, but not as sleek as I was hoping.
Notice the necklace...same one as yesterday, but today I wrapped around twice to create a fuller, shorter look.

1 Down, 29 to Go

DAY 1 (August 1, 2010)
Dress-Forever 21 via Thrift Store
Cardi-Target
Flip Flops- Old Navy
Necklace- My Mimi's

Day 1 was all bout summer colors and being comfortable in the heat. The cardi kept me covered and not showing too much, but I was able to take it off when it got too hot!

The 30 Items

Here are my 30 items for the 30 days! Not sure what I am talking about, scroll down a couple posts to read about my 30 in 30 challenge!

ShoesShorts, Capris, & Pants
T-shirts & Tanks
Jackets, Cardigans, & Button-downs
Skirts and Dresses

Tomorrow morning I start wearing these 30 items for the next 30 days, creating fun and new outfits...some maybe a success and some maybe a failure!

I Did It!

Today I woke up and exercised!!!! 20 minutes of walking and I feel so good! Even though I got up early, I feel so much better having done it!
Plus, I learned that I can walk to Jungle Jim's in 20 minutes!
I also learned I need to invest in one of these!
Favorite post exercise breakfast...a banana!

The Adventure

I made a promise to myself that I was going to start exercising daily (at least 3-5xs a week). I did great for the first 2 weeks--going to the gym at our apartment or doing a video. Then I got sick, achy body and a horrible chest cold. And now I have no motivation to get up in the morning to do it!
So, I again am making that promise! I will exercise 3-4xs a week for at least 30 minutes each day.

On another fun front, I will be conducting a style experiment in August!
For 30 days, I will only be wearing a set 30 items (shoes, top, and bottoms)--pajamas and exercise clothes do not count! Accessories are endless! The idea comes from here (inspiration) and the concept is to remix the 30 items to create different looks. During these 30 days, I am also not allowed to buy any new clothes!
This should be interesting!

Coming Soon

I recently participated an ornament swap hosted by http://simplecuriosities.kimistarr.com/
I made 30 amazing ornaments and will receive many back in return! But I forgot to photograph my ornament before I mailed them. So when I receive my package I will post the photo!

Mimi

Monday was hard...to hear those words she is gone...to know I was not here to say good-bye. I rejoice in the fact that I know she is somewhere better...there is no pain and tears and she is rejoicing in that.
Tomorrow is the family wake...very difficult to see the family and say goodbye.
Thursday is the visitation.
Friday the funeral.
Very emotional days to come, but many memories and stories to share!

Mimi I miss you and look forward to celebrating with you again one day!Mimi being feisty with Zach...she was one feisty lady!


Mimi and Papa with Keith and I at our wedding
Mimi and Papa together...45 years they were married


Mimi and Papa again

Mimi with Caidan...when she first became sick she did everything she could to still help with Caidan.

Kroger 7.25.09

Original Cost: $16.07

Bought:
*Propel $1.00
*Propel $1.00
*Propel $1.00
*Propel $1.00
*VitaminWater $1.00
*VitaminWater $1.00
*Sobe LifeWater $0.99
*Sobe LifeWater $0.99
*Keebler Cookies $1.99
*Sour Cream $1.99
Donuts $1.00
English Muffins $1.00
Dr. Pepper $1.49 (not pictured)

Coupons Used:
$5.00 off for Mega Events*
$0.03 for using reusable bags
$1.00/4 Propel
$0.99 Sobe LifeWater (B1/1F)
$1.00 Sour Cream
$1.00 Keebler Cookies

Paid: $6.43 + $0.62=$7.05

Total spent after coupons: $7.05

Meijer 7,25.09

Original Cost: $23.89

Bought:
Toothbrush Cover $0.97
Toothbrush Cover $0.97
BC Frosting $0.99
Cucumber $0.34
Cookie Dough $2.00
Cookie Dough $2.00
Old Spice Body Wash $3.19
Old Spice Body Wash $3.19
Frozen Lemonade $2.50
Italian Ice $2.50
Honey Bunches of Oat $2.00
Honey Bunches of Oat $2.00

Coupons Used:
$1.00 Frozen Lemonade
$1.00 Italian Ice
$1.00 Cookie Dough
$1.00 Cookie Dough
$1.00 Old Spice Body Wash
$1.00 Old Spice Body Wash

Paid: $17.41 + $0.48 tax=$17.89

Total spent after coupons and refund: $17.89

$5.00 for One-year REAL SIMPLE SUBSCRIPTION

One of my favorite magazines, REAL SIMPLE is available for $5.00 here

I purchased mine and the first issue should arrive by the end of the month!

Kroger 6.25.09

Original Cost: $45.81

Bought:
*Gatorade $1.00
*Gatorade $1.00
*Gatorade $1.00
*Gatorade $1.00
*Gatorade $1.00
*Kraft BBQ Sauce $0.97
*Kraft BBQ Sauce $0.97
*Kraft BBQ Sauce $0.97
*Betty Crocker Brownie $1.99
*Betty Crocker Brownie $1.99
*Oscar Meyer Hot Dogs $1.38
*Oscar Meyer Hot Dogs $1.38
*Oscar Meyer Hot Dogs $1.38
*Oscar Meyer Hot Dogs $1.38
*Oscar Meyer Hot Dogs $1.38
*Oscar Meyer Hot Dogs $1.38
*Oscar Meyer Hot Dogs $1.38
*Oscar Meyer Hot Dogs $1.38
*Banquet Sausage Links $0.92
*Banquet Sausage Links $0.92
Mt. Dew 2 Liter $1.25
Pepsi 2 Liter $1.25
Cherry Pepsi 2 Liter $1.25
Root Beer 2 Liter $1.25
Orange 2 Liter $1.25
Dr. Pepper 2 Liter $1.25
Luna Bar $1.00
Luna Bar $1.00
Luna Bar $1.00
Luna Bar $1.00
Luna Bar $1.00
Luna Bar $1.00
Luna Bar $1.00
Clif Bar $1.00
Clif Bar $1.00
Clif Bar $1.00
Clif Bar $1.00
Clif Bar $1.00
Blueberries $1.48

Coupons Used:
$6.00 from buying Daytona Deals*
$2.50 off for buying 6 designated 2 liters
$0.75/2 Brownies (Cellfire.com loaded on card)
$1.00/2 Oscar Meyer Hot Dogs (Cellfire.com loaded on card)
$1.00/2 Oscar Meyer Hot Dogs (Cellfire.com loaded on card)
$1.00/2 Brownies ($1.12 each after Cellfire.com coupon too)
$1.00 Kraft BBQ Sauce (free plus $0.30 overage)
$0.99 Kraft BBQ Sauce (free plus $0.30 overage)
$0.98 Kraft BBQ Sauce (free plus $0.30 overage)
$1.00/3 Clif/Luna Bars (organic booklet found at Kroger) ($0.67 each)
$1.00/3 Clif/Luna Bars (organic booklet found at Kroger) ($0.67 each)
$1.00/3 Clif/Luna Bars (organic booklet found at Kroger) ($0.67 each)
$1.00/3 Clif/Luna Bars (organic booklet found at Kroger) ($0.67 each)
$1.00/2 Oscar Meyer Hot Dogs ($0.33 each after Cellfire.com Coupon too)
$1.00/2 Oscar Meyer Hot Dogs ($0.33 each after Cellfire.com Coupon too)

Paid: $26.59 + $0.42 tax=$27.01
After looking at receipt I realized that $2.00 had been added on and $2.00 worth of coupons missing. I went to customer service and they refunded me $4.00.
Total spent after coupons and refund: $23.01

Bad Blogger

I have goals for this site and I am working on finding the balance to achieve those. I have posted two great shopping trips below and hope to post more this week. This weekend will be crazy as my sis and her family are in town, but I promise deals will go up!

CVS 6.22.09 (2 Transactions)

Original Cost: $12.32

Bought:
Soy Joy Bar $1.00
Soy Joy Bar $1.00
Soy Joy Bar $1.00
Soy Joy Bar $1.00
Tylenol Rapid Release $3.99
Tylenol Rapid Release $3.99
Emery Board $0.34

Coupons Used:
B1/G1 Free ($1.00) Soy Joy Bar
B1/G1 Free ($1.00) Soy Joy Bar
$3.00/2 Tylenol Products
$2.00 any Tylenol Rapid Release (CVS)

Paid: $5.32+$0.09tax=$5.41 ($5.00 ecb and $0.41 gift card)
Earned: $4.00 ecb for Soy Joy and $4.00 for Tylenol
Profit of $2.59
Original Cost: $12.97

Bought:
St. Ives Body Wash $3.99
Tylenol Rapid Release $3.99
Chapstick $0.75 (clearance)
L'Oreal Hip Eyeliner $2.12 (clearance)
L'Oreal Hip Eyeliner $2.12 (clearance)

Coupons Used:
$1.50 St. Ives Body Wash
$2.00 St. Ives Body Wash (CVS)
$1.00 Tylenol Product
$2.00 L'Oreal Hip Product
$2.00 L'Oreal Hip Product

Paid: $4.47+$0.46tax=$4.93 ($4.00 ecb and $0.93 gift card)
Earned: $2.00 for Tylenol
Total cost after coupons and earnings: $2.93

Total for both transactions $0.34! Yeah me!