Personalized

Having 3 kids can create quite the quandry when it comes to purchasing items. They all want what each other has, but if you buy identical you can't ever tell them apart! My kids love having things with their names on, especially the younger two since it's difficult to find anything with their name! I found these last year and they were a HUGE hit! I think Santa will possibly purchase the matching bowls this year. So, if you like personalized stuff, check out www.emtannerdesigns.com

Grumpy

I think that is my new name. It seems that is what Nathan and the kids are calling me as of late. But, I can't blame them. I am GRUMPY. I did something stupid. I decided that I would attempt to get off of my Paxil. I'm not sure why I made that decision. It must have been temporary insanity. But, I know it was a mistake. I know that a lot of people look down on other people who take this type of medicine. Or they have some kind of pre-conceived notion of what "kind" of people take it. But let me tell you, I didn't ask for this. Anxiety and depression run in my family. I think almost every female on either side suffer from one or both. For many years I suffered through it; barely being able to go out to dinner or go shopping without feeling like I was going to get sick or hyperventilate, or both. After many heart to hearts with family members, friends and my doctor we all came to the conclusion that the stigma of being medicated was worth it if I could lead a "normal" life. Well, fast forward to a few weeks ago. I thought I was doing OK and for some reason thought I'd be brilliant and attempt to live my life without my Paxil. Bad idea. I often have days where I feel like I can hardly breathe or like I am coming out of my skin. It has been exasterbated by issues going on at work. I've come to the conclusion that I will most likely have to be on this for the rest of my life. But, I am finally growing OK with it. Some people just need "help" and I guess I am one of those people. (And I really can't believe I just shared that with the entire internet world.)

For the Shoe Lover

I am a confessed shoe whore and have apparently passed the trait along to my girls. (I could have passed along worse!) I've been trying to come up with a scheme for girls' room (whenever Hubs decides to finish it) and I think these would look fantastic smattered about the walls.



http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=7220533

Look Good Enough To Eat...

Even though they are vegan, I think I will pass. These soaps are so.stinkin'.cute! Made by DirtyAssSoaps on Etsy. I think these will make adorable party favors!



http://www.etsy.com/profile.php?user_id=5111675

Etsy

It's no big secret that I LOVE to shop. Seriously. Especially when it comes to my kids. It must be something inherited from my mom. (I like to pass blame.) I've been a huge Ebayer for years. Sadly enough, I've bought more than I've sold. Then, along came Etsy. I did my damndest to stay away. I really did. But there is just TOO much cute stuff. And I am a sucker for custom-made items. (Shoot, the kids used to be Ebay models on the custom circuit for a while.) I had been doing really well and hadn't purchased a single item, just coveted them until Mother's Day. I found something I wanted and Nathan ordered one for me and his mom. Now, I am truly hooked. Guess I'd better start selling on Ebay to fund my passion for Etsy. So, every once in a while I'll hook you up with some of my favorite sellers. The first is The Vintage Pearl. Nathan bought me an awesome necklace for Mother's Day that has the kids's names stamped on it. The second is a gal who makes the cutest placemats. What great gifts!

(This is not the necklace that Nathan purchased for me, but similar)



http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=5135533



http://www.etsy.com/shop.php?user_id=6105239

I figure if I'm going to be addicted, I'm NOT doing it alone!

One Vice Down

I am officially free of soda for 3 weeks! I know it doesn't seem like much, but it is huge for me. I am a Diet Coke addict. Now, I haven't totally given up caffiene (I do work 3rd shift), but I have cut down on it tremendously. I mostly only drink water with the occassional iced tea or Crystal Lite. So, step one on my way to weight loss. (I hope.)

Today I am starting my 30 in 30. I know I am late, but there have been several issues hindering my start date. But, today I am ready and focused. (It helped trying on clothes from last summer. Or should I say, attempting to try them on.) Nothing like a kick in the pants.

My friend Sara has convinced me to train for a triathalon for next year. Nathan says he will join me as will 2 of my best friends, Kinzi and Callie. Now to just find one to compete in!

I hope you all have a safe and happy Memorial weekend.

Changes...They are a coming!

I don't want to get into it all right now, but I've got some big life changes coming up. If I'm not around, or I seem moody, just please know it isn't anything personal.