Day #1 (of the Rest of My Life)

I started Weight Watchers today -- again.  Please, the story of my life with on again-off again diets plans for getting healthy. 

But, I do feel really good this time.  I have a support group at work and feel really committed and ready.  Also, food -- food that I used to love and worship (aka, junk!) just doesn't taste as good as it used to.  When I eat it now, it leaves me feeling tired, energy-less and, well, fat.  That says something, right?

I've been struggling with whether or not to post my actual weight on my blog.  The number is higher than it has ever been before.  Even with my share everything approach to life -- not sure I'm ready for it to be so public, so real.  Maybe I'll change my mind as the scale goes down, but for now, I'm just not there yet.

So my goal?  35 pounds lost by my 35th birthday. I usually set really unrealistic goals.  Like when I went to St. Thomas in May, my goal was 20 pounds in 2 weeks.  Yeah, OK.  So, in my commitment to truly make a life change, I'm going to try and slow things down.   My new approach gives me 9 months and 3 days!

In terms of working out (BLECH!), I'm not ready to hit the gym yet.  I really just dread it.  But, I was enjoying Bikram (hot) yoga.  So, I am going to commit to that a few times a week -- for now.

So, there you have it.  Keep you posted.  And, if you have any tips, recipes and/or moral support to share, I'd love to hear from you!

I Survived (So Far!)

I wanted kids as far back as I can remember.  BUT, there was one thing about parenthood that stopped me in my tracks, gave me pause about having children at all and had me considering home schooling so they wouldn't ever have to be in a cesspool of germs -- vomit.  Hate it.  Hate the mere idea of it.  Hate the anticipation of it.  Hate the even remote possibility of it.

Well, I just survived the dreaded stomach flu with Ellie.  A major milestone of mommy hood (passed, with flying colors, I might add!)  I have to say, it wasn't as bad as I thought.  My little lady was SUCH a trooper, so very brave.  And, to top it all off, she kept looking up at me with those big, sad blue eyes, saying "tank you Mommy.  I wuv you Mommy."  Love.  Love.

As the clock strikes 10:38 tonight -- marking the exact moment we will reach the coveted 24 hour mark -- I will sleep soundly knowing that I graduated past my private parental panic with honors!

P.S.  G-D, since I was such an amazing mom...can you please spare me, the hubs and most of all the 4 year-old?  He has his first field trip tomorrow and is beyond excited.  And, selfishly, while I was great, truly -- I'm still not quite ready to do it again! 

Blog Bliss

First...what do you think of the new look?  I love it..."me" colors and just the right amount of girly/cutesy.   I might re-work the signature a bit...but, I couldn't wait to get the new and MUCH approved look up and running.

Secondly, I was chatting with some of my favorite co-workers this morning, both who asked me when my next post was coming because they really do love reading my blog and my writing.  I honestly haven't been that into it lately, but just hearing those kind words gave me just the inspiration I needed to stick with it.  I'm such a sucker for a pat on the back or some kudos..works every time! 

So, here are a few updates on The State of Jen:

1.  Last night, I went to a friend's house to help her with her darling kids while her husband was on a business trip.  She has a 6 week-old and a 3 year-old and the thought of doing the "witching hour" alone sent her into a bit of a tailspin.  I jumped at the chance to help -- because I remember feeling the exact same way.  She told me she was embarrassed to ask for help, thinking I'd judge her for not wanting to handle the few hours alone.  I took her hands in mine and explained that I did everything in my power to NEVER have to do dinner/bath/bed time alone until Ellie was oh, about 6 months.  And, that I stopped judging other parents the exact day I became one!  Her relief was palpable as I held that little bundle of newborn for a few, precious hours. 

2.  I'm co-throwing a baby shower for my BFF on Sunday for her baby boy due 11/11/11 -- so cool!  (You know I'm not that into getting induced for delivery -- but I might have to make an exception for this one, what a cool birthday that would be!)  I'm very, very excited and will post pictures next week.  I'm also a bit nervous since I volunteered to make ALL the food myself.  With the hubby at a golf outing all day Saturday, it should be an interesting scramble!

3.  The kids are fantastic.  MDB has his first field trip next week.  They are headed to another pre-school to play outside and have a picnic in the park.  He is beyond excited to ride the school bus and I was beyond excited to sign my very first permission slip!

4.  Ellie, oh my Ellie.  She is just full of spit and vinegar these days.  Darling as heck, but also a whole, lotta 2.5 year-old drama.  I think we have a live wire here -- reminds me of someone else I know.  Me?  No, not me! :)  My parents secretly wished a "spirited" child on me during my own bouts!  Happy guys?

5.  Lastly, my quest continues on my never ending (or starting for that matter) weight loss/get healthy battle.  A few girls at work who have managed to change their lives for the healthier are letting me into their Weight Watchers "support group."  Today is our first meeting and I'm pretty excited about it.  Like I said, I've always needed the support (and praise) of others to help me on hard journeys -- so here goes nothing everything!

That's Not My Name!

This morning we started our day with a full-on, music blasting, still in the wee hours of the morning, pajama-clad dance party to MDBs most requested song, "That's Not My Name" by The Ting Tings.  Seeing the kids dance around shaking their little tushes, holding hands, watching them, watch themselves in the full-legnth mirror and hearing little Ellie's voice sing, "That's Not My Name" at the top of her lungs, seared a smile on my face that I just can't shake! 

Thought maybe hearing The Ting-Tings would help jump start your day too...

Happy hump day!

Help Wanted!

Ok, so my brand new blog design fell through.  I'm pretty bummed...I was excited for something new and fresh.  The pink paisley's and single tulip, which I once loved so much, now make me not even want to spend time on my own site.  Yeah, not good.

Do any of you know any good and reasonably priced blog designers out there?  I want something clean, simple, girly, bright and fresh...

HELP!