Today was one of those days where it was easy to focus on how hard things can be and the challenges we face as a family. We're currently planning our biggest move yet as Caleb gets out of the military and chooses a career path. We'll finally settle into a place more permanent where we can regularly see family and friends. This has been my dream from the beginning. Right now there are so many questions and different "to do" lists running through my head and my thoughts go a mile a minute. Sometimes I wish I could just shut the darn thing off and breathe. I'm trying to "let go and let God" as my sister so sweetly reminded me this morning. Letting go is the absolute hardest thing for me to do. Hopefully it's something I can accomplish in this lifetime.
We took our youngest to his 9 month well checkup today. He's the smallest of the three, but still a bit of a chunker. We started going through the milestone checklist with our doctor and every time I get this pit in my stomach. Even though I feel like he's developing normally, I always have that seed of doubt in the back of my head. When you have one child with sensory or developmental delays, your chances of having another child with similar challenges go up. Sometimes it's so difficult to really enjoy this first year of our sons life, because I'm constantly waiting to see if he'll advance to the next milestone.
Earlier, before the doctor had come in, a different nurse than we normally have began taking his measurements. The boys were fighting over a toy, and as usual, Ki began hulking out. We typically call him the Hulk, because he can get so angry where he not only tries to hurt himself, but the person who triggered his tantrum- usually his older brother. Anyway, the nurse started to talk to the boys and I simply said that he was nonverbal. She then proceeded to ask me "is he slow?" Now I don't know if this was sheer ignorance, or it just accidentally came out that way. Regardless, it caught completely off guard. To think that that's how some view children who are developmentally delayed in areas or who don't speak is heartbreaking. As his mom, it broke my heart even more because I'm constantly worried how the outside world will treat him just because they don't understand him or the situation. He's such a beautiful child with a beautiful heart who loves to laugh, play, and cuddle with you. If people had the opportunity to spend 5 min with him, they would understand that he's far from "slow", but has different obstacles in life that he's working to overcome.
Wednesday, May 13, 2015
Monday, April 13, 2015
Communicating with our nonverbal toddler.
When our son turned two and still wasn't talking, we knew that something was definitely wrong. We talked to our pediatrician who said we could wait until he was 2 and a half to see if he was a late bloomer, but with everything else stacked against him, we decided to start speech therapy anyway. His speech was evaluated in January and it was significantly more delayed than I thought. Parts of his language were at a 6 month level, but most parts were around a 9 month old level.
Up until this point we were communicating by us guessing what he was trying to convey. This resulted in many meltdowns. He eventually learned to point to things which helped tremendously, but still wasn't ideal. Now, I spend so much time with him that I usually know exactly what he wants, but I still occasionally get it wrong. This also isn't ideal, because I can't be with him 24/7 and other people won't just know what he wants.
In speech, they do work on saying actual words and sounds, but they also have been working on signs. "More" and "all done" are the main ones. He's signed more before, but just like him saying words, he'll sign once and never again. It's like everything is a jumbled mess and he's trying to get it out, but can't. Recently I started working with him to sign "please." This, to me, was one of the most important signs he could learn. For the last two days he has successfully signed "please" when wanting something. Most of the time he has to be prompted, but he has done it on his own. This is a huge accomplishment for us and you better believe he got two pouches in a row because he said please by himself!
Monday, April 6, 2015
The best kind of superheroes.
If you know me at all, you know that I have an extreme Type A personality. I'm a planner. I like things thought out, planned out, and organized. People who don't care to come up with a game plan or who don't stick to what they say they're gonna do thoroughly grates on my nerves. I try to avoid these type of people because they ruffle my feathers so much. Funny enough, my husband is the polar opposite of me, but we work because he lets me be the control freak I need to be. We balance each other out well... Most of the time ;)
Since my last post, something I didn't plan for and actually tried the whole "ignore and it will go away" happened. I woke up and stopped lying to myself. I listened to way too many "oh, my friends kid was this way and turned out great" and read lots of "kids develop at their own pace" posts. I know people are trying to instill hope and share their success stories, but more often than not, they're the exception, not the rule. It's great to hold onto that hope, but as a realist, I say to hold onto what you know is true because the longer you sit and wait, the longer you're putting off getting the help your child so desperately needs.
Let me back up. Our second son Kiam is special needs. He turns 3 in August and in 2 months we have his evaluation for a diasnosis. He has a severe speech and developmental delay. We obviously noticed signs very early on, but because I wanted to control the situation and not believe my child might have different obstacles, I ignored it and relied on the "kids develop at different paces" line. This is true to an extent, but I ignored major signs and had I not, he could have begun therapy a year earlier. That's something I highly regret and take responsibility for.
He was such an amazing baby. Slept great from day one and hardly ever cried. He was always content to just sit. Around 6 months of age, we went to visit my family for 5 weeks while Caleb was in the field. Kiam cried incessantly the entire time. Even after a doctors visit, we couldn't pinpoint a problem. I just thought he was sensitive to routine change. He also stopped nursing during this time. When 9-12 months came along, he never learned to clap or wave "bye-bye." When he had his one year checkup and they asked if he said a certain number of words, I said yes remembering a time or two where I thought he said this or that, but then never said again. Little did I realize that he was "losing language." He didn't walk until he was 15 months old and then he started toe-walking, which I told myself was a phase. After he turned one, he also started crying all the time which was the hardest part for me. I thought maybe he's just a hard toddler since he was such a great baby. This was "just another phase." He never played beside or with other children is age. It was like he never even saw them. He still doesn't.
Now at 32 months, Kiam still doesn't say anything but "no" which is usually used correctly. He occasionally says "go." He's said a few other words, but only once. He is amazing at puzzles, but his fine motor skills are lacking. These have improved drastically in just a few short months with the help of occupational therapy. He has speech and OT about 3-4 times a week. His therapists are angels and he loves them. When I see him run into their arms, these are the times I kick myself for not opening my eyes sooner.
When we first started going to therapy and learning just how severe things were, I was on an emotional roller coaster. I didn't want anyone to know. Not because I was ashamed, but because I didn't want people to label my child. This world is cruel and I didn't want it to carry with him. I still don't, but I also don't want to hide it. Kiam was quickly getting to an age where it was more obvious. People would try to talk to him and he wouldn't respond or when we would try to leave him in the church nursery he would be so upset he would be throwing things. As a family, we have different daily challenges, but we adapt and overcome. We may avoid some things like going to sit down restaurants or expecting Kiam to act appropriately in a sensory overloaded environment, but this is our normal. I'm proud of my happy, energetic, sensory-seeking, blonde baby boy! He challenges us daily to be the best parents we can be. I used to ask how this happened and without skipping a beat, Caleb would remind me that he was born this way.. That God doesn't make mistakes. I cling to this. This child is great and will do great things. Kiam means "life" which is so fitting for his personality. You would be lucky to spend 5 minutes with this kid, if you could keep up that is ;)
I encourage other parents that if you have any doubt in the development of your child or just feel like something is off, please bring it up to their pediatrician. Early intervention has the highest success rate. Don't fear the diagnosis. You are your child's advocate. Take comfort in knowing you're not alone. There is a special community that will welcome you with open arms.
If you have any questions or just want me to pray for you, please don't hesitate to ask.
God Bless!
Since my last post, something I didn't plan for and actually tried the whole "ignore and it will go away" happened. I woke up and stopped lying to myself. I listened to way too many "oh, my friends kid was this way and turned out great" and read lots of "kids develop at their own pace" posts. I know people are trying to instill hope and share their success stories, but more often than not, they're the exception, not the rule. It's great to hold onto that hope, but as a realist, I say to hold onto what you know is true because the longer you sit and wait, the longer you're putting off getting the help your child so desperately needs.
Let me back up. Our second son Kiam is special needs. He turns 3 in August and in 2 months we have his evaluation for a diasnosis. He has a severe speech and developmental delay. We obviously noticed signs very early on, but because I wanted to control the situation and not believe my child might have different obstacles, I ignored it and relied on the "kids develop at different paces" line. This is true to an extent, but I ignored major signs and had I not, he could have begun therapy a year earlier. That's something I highly regret and take responsibility for.
He was such an amazing baby. Slept great from day one and hardly ever cried. He was always content to just sit. Around 6 months of age, we went to visit my family for 5 weeks while Caleb was in the field. Kiam cried incessantly the entire time. Even after a doctors visit, we couldn't pinpoint a problem. I just thought he was sensitive to routine change. He also stopped nursing during this time. When 9-12 months came along, he never learned to clap or wave "bye-bye." When he had his one year checkup and they asked if he said a certain number of words, I said yes remembering a time or two where I thought he said this or that, but then never said again. Little did I realize that he was "losing language." He didn't walk until he was 15 months old and then he started toe-walking, which I told myself was a phase. After he turned one, he also started crying all the time which was the hardest part for me. I thought maybe he's just a hard toddler since he was such a great baby. This was "just another phase." He never played beside or with other children is age. It was like he never even saw them. He still doesn't.
Now at 32 months, Kiam still doesn't say anything but "no" which is usually used correctly. He occasionally says "go." He's said a few other words, but only once. He is amazing at puzzles, but his fine motor skills are lacking. These have improved drastically in just a few short months with the help of occupational therapy. He has speech and OT about 3-4 times a week. His therapists are angels and he loves them. When I see him run into their arms, these are the times I kick myself for not opening my eyes sooner.
When we first started going to therapy and learning just how severe things were, I was on an emotional roller coaster. I didn't want anyone to know. Not because I was ashamed, but because I didn't want people to label my child. This world is cruel and I didn't want it to carry with him. I still don't, but I also don't want to hide it. Kiam was quickly getting to an age where it was more obvious. People would try to talk to him and he wouldn't respond or when we would try to leave him in the church nursery he would be so upset he would be throwing things. As a family, we have different daily challenges, but we adapt and overcome. We may avoid some things like going to sit down restaurants or expecting Kiam to act appropriately in a sensory overloaded environment, but this is our normal. I'm proud of my happy, energetic, sensory-seeking, blonde baby boy! He challenges us daily to be the best parents we can be. I used to ask how this happened and without skipping a beat, Caleb would remind me that he was born this way.. That God doesn't make mistakes. I cling to this. This child is great and will do great things. Kiam means "life" which is so fitting for his personality. You would be lucky to spend 5 minutes with this kid, if you could keep up that is ;)
I encourage other parents that if you have any doubt in the development of your child or just feel like something is off, please bring it up to their pediatrician. Early intervention has the highest success rate. Don't fear the diagnosis. You are your child's advocate. Take comfort in knowing you're not alone. There is a special community that will welcome you with open arms.
If you have any questions or just want me to pray for you, please don't hesitate to ask.
God Bless!
Sunday, November 16, 2014
2014
2012? Sheesh! I warned you that I'm a horrible blogger! Right now I'm laying in the dark beside a bassinet putting a pacifier in my 3 month old babys mouth everytime he decides it's a good idea to spit it out... Even though he can't fall asleep without it. This is about the only time a day I get to myself. Occasionally the bathroom, but usually my two year old is trying to rip me up the moment I sit on the toilet. He's incredibly impatient and has to have something the instant he wants it. So that's two of the 3 monsters I have.
Ezra, the newest addition to the Peterson clan, is 3 months old and doesn't do much besides eat, poop, sleep, and cry. Mostly in the order, although sometimes he'll surprise you ;)
Kiam or "Ki" as we call him, mostly because everyone mispronounces his name so we try help them out by calling him Ki. It doesn't, in case you were wondering. Least they don't call him a "she."
*side note* Ezra is constantly called a girl. Not usually for his appearance (although it's happened, while wearing blue and green, people are dumb), but because they girst hear his name and they automatically think girl. Has no one on the west coast read the Bible? Or geeze seen Pretty Little Liars?
Kiam is our sweet, sweet dare devil. He absolutely loves to cuddle, kiss, and hug you and loves to climb like a crazy man. Speaking of, he is currently ruinibg every night of sleep I have due to toddler bed sleep training. While Caleb was in the field, he proved that the walls of a crib won't confine him and he needs to be free. We spend our nights putting him back in bed 49 times because he thinks it's time to get up and play. He eventually stops doing that right?
And then there's Sam or "Sam I am" or "Samul". He's our social butterfly. Doesn't meet a stranger and everyone is his "friend." Too bad he doesn't feel that way about Ki... Maybe he wouldn't feel the need to deck him as he walked by. Seriously. Boys are mean. That's play, Ki usually Hulks out and chases him down with rage ripping through his body until he bites Sam. Don't with he's only broken skin once ;). I promise he's sweet as can be to everyone else. Most of the time. He can be a little diva though. He gets it honestly. Calebs quite the Mariah Carey.
Our house is very full, fun, and chaotic. Even though most days I can't handle the crazy, I stull couldnt imagine being "done." I still want more kids. I want another boy first. 4 boys would be ideal. And then maybe we could finally add a girl or two... You know, in case my vote counts :) Family is everything to me. If I could have anything for my children, I would want them to have a closeness with their extended family. I pray for Sunday dinners where everyone gets together each week. I pray for get togethers to happen each week instead of every few months. Hopefully when Caleb leaves the Marine Corps we'll be able to settle down in Tennessee to start a life near our family. Ok enough rambling. I need to go pump so I can go to bed :)
Ezra, the newest addition to the Peterson clan, is 3 months old and doesn't do much besides eat, poop, sleep, and cry. Mostly in the order, although sometimes he'll surprise you ;)
Kiam or "Ki" as we call him, mostly because everyone mispronounces his name so we try help them out by calling him Ki. It doesn't, in case you were wondering. Least they don't call him a "she."
*side note* Ezra is constantly called a girl. Not usually for his appearance (although it's happened, while wearing blue and green, people are dumb), but because they girst hear his name and they automatically think girl. Has no one on the west coast read the Bible? Or geeze seen Pretty Little Liars?
Kiam is our sweet, sweet dare devil. He absolutely loves to cuddle, kiss, and hug you and loves to climb like a crazy man. Speaking of, he is currently ruinibg every night of sleep I have due to toddler bed sleep training. While Caleb was in the field, he proved that the walls of a crib won't confine him and he needs to be free. We spend our nights putting him back in bed 49 times because he thinks it's time to get up and play. He eventually stops doing that right?
And then there's Sam or "Sam I am" or "Samul". He's our social butterfly. Doesn't meet a stranger and everyone is his "friend." Too bad he doesn't feel that way about Ki... Maybe he wouldn't feel the need to deck him as he walked by. Seriously. Boys are mean. That's play, Ki usually Hulks out and chases him down with rage ripping through his body until he bites Sam. Don't with he's only broken skin once ;). I promise he's sweet as can be to everyone else. Most of the time. He can be a little diva though. He gets it honestly. Calebs quite the Mariah Carey.
Our house is very full, fun, and chaotic. Even though most days I can't handle the crazy, I stull couldnt imagine being "done." I still want more kids. I want another boy first. 4 boys would be ideal. And then maybe we could finally add a girl or two... You know, in case my vote counts :) Family is everything to me. If I could have anything for my children, I would want them to have a closeness with their extended family. I pray for Sunday dinners where everyone gets together each week. I pray for get togethers to happen each week instead of every few months. Hopefully when Caleb leaves the Marine Corps we'll be able to settle down in Tennessee to start a life near our family. Ok enough rambling. I need to go pump so I can go to bed :)
Friday, November 9, 2012
jumped ship.
Guess who dove head first off the weight loss ship?! You guessed it, yours truly. I could give you a million excuses on why I haven't been sticking to my goal, but the truth is I'm lazy. It's beyond easy to just sit here and play with my kids or play around on the computer instead of getting out of the house and working out. And what's even more easy than that is eating whatever I want.... candy, oreos, ice cream... you name it, I probably ate it.
There was a point, that I thought to myself, okay it's time to do this again.... but then I just shook my head and said nahhhh... :) I'm not proud of this, but it's the truth.
Life has been a little crazy with all of us getting sick and it's only going to get crazier considering we're moving AGAIN and will be spending 2-3 days in the car. Fun, I know. Have I mentioned that we don't have a place to live yet either? Oh the joys of being in the Marine Corps :)
Don't worry though, I will get off my lazy butt and start to actually push myself. I don't want to be a blob that has morphed into a couch because that's where I've taken up a permanent residence. I want to finally get rid of this beautiful mom gut once and for all... well until baby #3 comes :)
I just need a little accountability from friends (Anna) and a little motivation (Jessica Biel).
I WILL DO THIS!
There was a point, that I thought to myself, okay it's time to do this again.... but then I just shook my head and said nahhhh... :) I'm not proud of this, but it's the truth.
Life has been a little crazy with all of us getting sick and it's only going to get crazier considering we're moving AGAIN and will be spending 2-3 days in the car. Fun, I know. Have I mentioned that we don't have a place to live yet either? Oh the joys of being in the Marine Corps :)
Don't worry though, I will get off my lazy butt and start to actually push myself. I don't want to be a blob that has morphed into a couch because that's where I've taken up a permanent residence. I want to finally get rid of this beautiful mom gut once and for all... well until baby #3 comes :)
I just need a little accountability from friends (Anna) and a little motivation (Jessica Biel).
I WILL DO THIS!
Monday, October 22, 2012
my growing babies.
Today was a day that I've been dreading for a while. Both boys had checkups with shots and I had to do this solo. :/ Last night I was so anxious, but I had a sweet husband to cuddle up to and ease my fears.
Getting ready this morning went very smoothly. Both boys were dressed, changed, and fed with time to spare. It was time to put my big girl panties on :)
I carried Kiam in his carseat and my big boy Sam walked holding my hand to the car. I was beyond proud of him. He didn't even try to go play, he just walked like a big boy! I put both boys in the car and got to the doctors office before the rain. Thank the Lord! Sam continued to walk like the big boy he is all the way up to the pediatrician on the 2nd floor. They were great in the waiting room, but then they called us back.
Sam HATES the doctors office and is petrified of the nurses and doctors. He pretty much screamed the entire time and the only way he would settle was by holding him. Luckily, Kiam was a trooper and was happy as could be...until the shots at least. They both got stuck several times, but don't worry, I brought suckers! When all was done, I gave them both some Tylenol, packed them up, and walked down to the 1st floor again. And guess what? It was raining :) I managed to get both boys in the car (a little wet) and only hit the truck beside me once with my car door. Good thing he was in his truck to watch ;)
When we finally made it home, Sam walked again holding my hand in the rain... I didn't notice he had undone his velcro straps and he lost his shoe, which made us more wet, but who doesn't love to play in the rain... Kiam that's who! Sam laughed the whole time. Such a sweet boy! Now we're all home, it's finally done, and the boys are napping peacefully!
Sam:
26 lbs 10 oz
31.5 inches
77%
Kiam:
15 lbs 10 oz
23.8 inches
97%
Getting ready this morning went very smoothly. Both boys were dressed, changed, and fed with time to spare. It was time to put my big girl panties on :)
I carried Kiam in his carseat and my big boy Sam walked holding my hand to the car. I was beyond proud of him. He didn't even try to go play, he just walked like a big boy! I put both boys in the car and got to the doctors office before the rain. Thank the Lord! Sam continued to walk like the big boy he is all the way up to the pediatrician on the 2nd floor. They were great in the waiting room, but then they called us back.
Sam HATES the doctors office and is petrified of the nurses and doctors. He pretty much screamed the entire time and the only way he would settle was by holding him. Luckily, Kiam was a trooper and was happy as could be...until the shots at least. They both got stuck several times, but don't worry, I brought suckers! When all was done, I gave them both some Tylenol, packed them up, and walked down to the 1st floor again. And guess what? It was raining :) I managed to get both boys in the car (a little wet) and only hit the truck beside me once with my car door. Good thing he was in his truck to watch ;)
When we finally made it home, Sam walked again holding my hand in the rain... I didn't notice he had undone his velcro straps and he lost his shoe, which made us more wet, but who doesn't love to play in the rain... Kiam that's who! Sam laughed the whole time. Such a sweet boy! Now we're all home, it's finally done, and the boys are napping peacefully!
Sam:
26 lbs 10 oz
31.5 inches
77%
Kiam:
15 lbs 10 oz
23.8 inches
97%
Thursday, October 18, 2012
just another update.
It's that time again... to fearlessly tell you about the progress (or lack thereof) I made this past week.
This last week Caleb was gone in the field from Tuesday until late Friday night, but thankfully I had some pretty good ladies to keep me company! I made several meals from www.skinnytaste.com and they were delicious! I loved the Skinny Pesto Chicken Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Cilantro Lime Rice .... but I didn't really care for the Pork and Green Chile Stew and I hated the Baked Corn and Crab Cakes . Won't be making those again :)
I went on several walks that usually lasted about 45 min to 1 hour on what I like to call the "hilly trail." I like this trail, because it makes me feel like I'm doing more and working harder. This week I didn't do a single lunge or squat :/ but I did continue to do crunches so all was not lost.
Caleb graduated from his BOLC (basic officer leadership course) on Tuesday and man was that a hectic day! I had to get 2 babies and myself all dressed up, changed, fed, loaded up in the car, unload from the car, and get them into the auditorium.... Thankfully I had help from my amazingly sweet neighbor! She put Sam in his carseat and carried Sam all the way in (This was actually a looongggg walk that included heels). My arms were killing me from carrying in Kiam "The Tank" Peterson in... That kid needs to lose a few lbs unless he decides to start walking soon.
In last last few weeks, I also discovered a new obsession: Hot Chocolate Milkshakes from Braums. Talk about YUMMY! This could be very bad....
Results:
Bust: 35.5 inches
Waist: 29inches
Hips: 37.75 inches
Weight: 128 lbs
I actually gained 1.5 lbs. :/ But I am not discouraged, because I did lose in other areas :) I lost 2.25 inches.
Until next week....
This last week Caleb was gone in the field from Tuesday until late Friday night, but thankfully I had some pretty good ladies to keep me company! I made several meals from www.skinnytaste.com and they were delicious! I loved the Skinny Pesto Chicken Slow Cooker Pulled Pork Cilantro Lime Rice .... but I didn't really care for the Pork and Green Chile Stew and I hated the Baked Corn and Crab Cakes . Won't be making those again :)
I went on several walks that usually lasted about 45 min to 1 hour on what I like to call the "hilly trail." I like this trail, because it makes me feel like I'm doing more and working harder. This week I didn't do a single lunge or squat :/ but I did continue to do crunches so all was not lost.
Caleb graduated from his BOLC (basic officer leadership course) on Tuesday and man was that a hectic day! I had to get 2 babies and myself all dressed up, changed, fed, loaded up in the car, unload from the car, and get them into the auditorium.... Thankfully I had help from my amazingly sweet neighbor! She put Sam in his carseat and carried Sam all the way in (This was actually a looongggg walk that included heels). My arms were killing me from carrying in Kiam "The Tank" Peterson in... That kid needs to lose a few lbs unless he decides to start walking soon.
In last last few weeks, I also discovered a new obsession: Hot Chocolate Milkshakes from Braums. Talk about YUMMY! This could be very bad....
Results:
Bust: 35.5 inches
Waist: 29inches
Hips: 37.75 inches
Weight: 128 lbs
I actually gained 1.5 lbs. :/ But I am not discouraged, because I did lose in other areas :) I lost 2.25 inches.
Until next week....
Wednesday, October 10, 2012
a bold update.
October 10
Weekly Update:
This week hasn't gone as well as I'd hoped. I thought I would be much more strict about the foods I eat and the exercise. Don't get be wrong, I have been exercising (although I wish a little more regularly) and I have been eating better, but this weekend was awful. I didn't go crazy, but I did allow myself to have some treats :) And man were they good!
I've been trying some new recipes from www.skinnytaste.com and have been pretty pleased! Healthier recipes that actually taste great! Thanks Bethany! And last night I made a healthier version of chicken nuggets that I loved!! Thanks to Kim!
Working out has included walking, crunches, situps, lunges, and squats. I pretty much just try to fit it in wherever which isn't easy. I've got 2 walking buddies and we usually try to meet about 9am :) It's nice to have adult conversation!
Now for the results:
I must say that I didn't think I did this well, because of this weekend, so I'm stoked about this!
Bust: 36 inches (granted this shouldn't even be here considering I nurse and it changes)
Waist: 30 inches
Hips: 38.5 inches
Weight: 126.5 lbs
That's a grand total of 2.5 lbs lost and 4.75 inches! WOOT WOOT!
*I even went as far as wearing the exact same outfit including the same sports bra :)
Until next week....
Weekly Update:
This week hasn't gone as well as I'd hoped. I thought I would be much more strict about the foods I eat and the exercise. Don't get be wrong, I have been exercising (although I wish a little more regularly) and I have been eating better, but this weekend was awful. I didn't go crazy, but I did allow myself to have some treats :) And man were they good!
I've been trying some new recipes from www.skinnytaste.com and have been pretty pleased! Healthier recipes that actually taste great! Thanks Bethany! And last night I made a healthier version of chicken nuggets that I loved!! Thanks to Kim!
Working out has included walking, crunches, situps, lunges, and squats. I pretty much just try to fit it in wherever which isn't easy. I've got 2 walking buddies and we usually try to meet about 9am :) It's nice to have adult conversation!
Now for the results:
I must say that I didn't think I did this well, because of this weekend, so I'm stoked about this!
Bust: 36 inches (granted this shouldn't even be here considering I nurse and it changes)
Waist: 30 inches
Hips: 38.5 inches
Weight: 126.5 lbs
That's a grand total of 2.5 lbs lost and 4.75 inches! WOOT WOOT!
*I even went as far as wearing the exact same outfit including the same sports bra :)
Until next week....
Thursday, October 4, 2012
time to be bold.
Being a girl, I feel like I go back and forth about having a positive self body image. I more so teeter on the side of being unhappy with the way I look or how much I weigh. So in the words of my amazing husband "If you don't like something, change it."
I know how to lose weight and feel better about myself (I'm not an idiot), but I will be the first to admit that I have no will power or discipline. Two things that I desperately need just to better myself.
In order to make these changes, I need to make a bold move. I need to do something drastic. I'm going to do something no women EVER wants to do. I'm going to tell you my weight and hopefully my measurements (If I can find blasted measuring tape). Each week, I will try to blog about my hopeful progress, struggles, stuff I ate, and the stuff I did to get some exercise in with having 2 kids (good luck to me).
For those of you who know me know that 1) I LOVE food and 2) I HATE to workout, so this is not going to be easy for me. But here it goes!
October 4:
Weight: 129 lbs
Height: 5'0 (Caleb measured me at actually 4'11.5, but I rounded up to make it easier of course :))
Bust: 37.5 in
Waist: 32.25 in
Hips: 39.5 in
Now for my height and build, I should be anywhere between:
Small frame: 104-115 lbs
Medium frame: 113-126 lbs
My husband and I can't agree on what frame I am so here is both :)
I would be extremely happy around 115 give or take, but overall I would just love to drop a pant size.
Because I'm nursing I don't want to restrict calories, I just want to make healthier choices. I am a horrible eater and I eat a lot of junk food! I need to be taking in at least 1800 calories each day.
After I weighed in, I went on a brisk hilly walk with my friend Megan and our strollers with our kids :) They loved it! After I came home, I finished with lunges, squats, sit ups, crunches, and push ups. I need to stick to exercises I can do at home that don't require much.
I've noticed that my core is VERY weak... probably because I had 2 kids back to back :)
See you next week! :)
I know how to lose weight and feel better about myself (I'm not an idiot), but I will be the first to admit that I have no will power or discipline. Two things that I desperately need just to better myself.
In order to make these changes, I need to make a bold move. I need to do something drastic. I'm going to do something no women EVER wants to do. I'm going to tell you my weight and hopefully my measurements (If I can find blasted measuring tape). Each week, I will try to blog about my hopeful progress, struggles, stuff I ate, and the stuff I did to get some exercise in with having 2 kids (good luck to me).
For those of you who know me know that 1) I LOVE food and 2) I HATE to workout, so this is not going to be easy for me. But here it goes!
October 4:
Weight: 129 lbs
Height: 5'0 (Caleb measured me at actually 4'11.5, but I rounded up to make it easier of course :))
Bust: 37.5 in
Waist: 32.25 in
Hips: 39.5 in
Now for my height and build, I should be anywhere between:
Small frame: 104-115 lbs
Medium frame: 113-126 lbs
My husband and I can't agree on what frame I am so here is both :)
I would be extremely happy around 115 give or take, but overall I would just love to drop a pant size.
Because I'm nursing I don't want to restrict calories, I just want to make healthier choices. I am a horrible eater and I eat a lot of junk food! I need to be taking in at least 1800 calories each day.
After I weighed in, I went on a brisk hilly walk with my friend Megan and our strollers with our kids :) They loved it! After I came home, I finished with lunges, squats, sit ups, crunches, and push ups. I need to stick to exercises I can do at home that don't require much.
I've noticed that my core is VERY weak... probably because I had 2 kids back to back :)
See you next week! :)
Monday, October 1, 2012
T-33 Days
I can see the light! Today marks 33 days until Caleb graduates from this wretched place and I for one am ecstatic! On our way to Oklahoma we had plans to find a furnished apartment off post... little did we know that we would have to live on post at the Holiday Inn. I know what you're thinking "that doesn't sound so bad".. wrong. We live in a tiny 2 bedroom apartment under the Holiday Inn name, but it is in no way up to Holiday Inn standards. They are extremely old and outdated with a lovely blue and brown decor. You can't clean ugly. To top it off, they tell you that you're supposed to get a full cleaning 2x a week (sweeping, mopping, dusting, vacuuming, bathroom, new linens)...I get a cleaning once a week without the bathroom being cleaned, without dusting, and without the floors really being cleaned and I'm too much of a pushover to actually say anything. Fail. This place does have some perks, though, so I suppose I shouldn't complain. We are making a lot of money by living here, I do get help with cleaning, free toiletries, and we do have a small 2 bedroom apartment rather than a hotel room (my initial thought).
After Caleb graduates, we're gonna load up that Uhaul and head to truly begin our new, more stable, life. I can't wait to be in the same place for more than a year and really be able to settle into a new home and make it my own. I've been flooding my Pinterest with big ideas, although with 2 kids under 2 I foresee the follow through lacking. I'm also beyond thrilled to be in California and live somewhere I've never been. I love new experiences and I'm stoked to have 2 amazing ladies to share them with! I couldn't be happier to be there with Anna and Kristie! Let the adventures begin!
After seeing all these new blog posts, I decided to write one of my own. One thing I didn't anticipate, though, was boring myself to death as I read it back. So kudos to anyone who actually makes it through this. Goodnight and God Bless.
After Caleb graduates, we're gonna load up that Uhaul and head to truly begin our new, more stable, life. I can't wait to be in the same place for more than a year and really be able to settle into a new home and make it my own. I've been flooding my Pinterest with big ideas, although with 2 kids under 2 I foresee the follow through lacking. I'm also beyond thrilled to be in California and live somewhere I've never been. I love new experiences and I'm stoked to have 2 amazing ladies to share them with! I couldn't be happier to be there with Anna and Kristie! Let the adventures begin!
After seeing all these new blog posts, I decided to write one of my own. One thing I didn't anticipate, though, was boring myself to death as I read it back. So kudos to anyone who actually makes it through this. Goodnight and God Bless.
Sunday, September 23, 2012
worst. blogger. ever.
It's about 8 pm and I have one baby trying to fall asleep in his room, one baby sleeping peacefully beside me on the couch, and one husband miserably studying for his test tomorrow on his only day off :/ Life couldn't be any sweeter, well unless Caleb didn't have to study.
I have painfully come to realize that I may be the worst blogger in history. I can't even remember the last time I have written a new post... I'll blame it on the fact that I just had a baby... Never mind that it's been almost 6 weeks ago.. Hey, being the mother of 2 under 2 is tough and time consuming!
Ok here is goes...
In May, we began wrapping up our adventure in Stafford, VA. We turned in our notice and invited strange men into our home to pack up our humble 3 bedroom apartment and ship it to California. I was beyond thrilled to find out that our duty station would be California because all that rang in my head was BEACH! Caleb, not so thrilled. Apparently the state is too liberal for his liking :) With the great news comes the not so great news... Caleb still had to go to MOS school and he was majorly blessed to get his first choice : artillery.... except the 5+ month school was in Lawton, OK... Ever heard of it? Neither has anyone else.
At the end of May, we loaded up the rest of our stuff (with Caleb throwing away everything that he deemed "wouldn't fit" (humidifiers, Baby Einstein Play Mat's..) Needless to say, I was a little bitter. But he assured me, he would replace them... I just felt wasteful. There really wasn't any extra room though. Everyone was sitting on stuff and poor Sam was squished into his car seat while everything was stuffed in around him. This began our 7 day journey across the country to California.
It was pretty uneventful (Praise the Lord)... We drove each day until about 5pm.. because that's when Sam decided he'd had enough. He was a big trooper! My favorite state was New Mexico... It was absolutely beautiful! Finally we pushed on the last day and made it to CA. It would be our home for the next 10 days as Caleb checked into his unit and got new orders for us to travel to OK and check into his MOS school.
I did not want to leave CA, especially for OK. When we arrived, I was surprised to find it much bigger than I thought it would be. It has mostly everything you need. Except a TARGET! How does that happen.. To go anywhere other than Lawton, you have to drive at least 50 miles.. LAME. We have yet to leave this hole. We have met some pretty great people though and Sam has made some friends that he plays with everyday, so this Momma is happy :) The best thing though that has come out of this place is of course my baby boy, Kiam Elias Peterson.
Kiam was born on August 14, 2012 at 9:09 pm. He weighed 8 lbs 1 oz and 20.5 inches :) A few days before I started having consistent contractions that put me in the hospital without any progress past 4 cm dilated. So lucky me, I had all the pains of labor without the baby. Thank goodness my mom and aunt were here to help with Sam, because I literally couldn't do anything. Ugh, I cringe just thinking about the pain. It continued 2 days until Tuesday, right as dinner was about to be finished, I started having a ton of pain again... Nothing more than had been happening.. I didn't feel contractions, just a lot of pain. I decided to go to the hospital because I was gonna make them give me pain meds! (They wouldn't give me anything the first time I went) Nurse walks in, checks me, and I'm 7 cm dilated. WHAT?! I didn't even know I was in labor! I almost didn't come in! I ended up giving birth about an hour and half later with only a few pushes. That kid just popped right out!
But now it's 6 weeks later and I have pretty well adjusted to being a mother of 2 babies :) I feel like a professional diaper changer. We have a good schedule going on and not to mention I have the best husband who helps me probably more than he should :) I am one blessed wife and momma!
This is super long and I apologize. One person will probably read this because he a) feels sorry for me and b) it's about him too. (egocentric... jk babe)
I have painfully come to realize that I may be the worst blogger in history. I can't even remember the last time I have written a new post... I'll blame it on the fact that I just had a baby... Never mind that it's been almost 6 weeks ago.. Hey, being the mother of 2 under 2 is tough and time consuming!
Ok here is goes...
In May, we began wrapping up our adventure in Stafford, VA. We turned in our notice and invited strange men into our home to pack up our humble 3 bedroom apartment and ship it to California. I was beyond thrilled to find out that our duty station would be California because all that rang in my head was BEACH! Caleb, not so thrilled. Apparently the state is too liberal for his liking :) With the great news comes the not so great news... Caleb still had to go to MOS school and he was majorly blessed to get his first choice : artillery.... except the 5+ month school was in Lawton, OK... Ever heard of it? Neither has anyone else.
At the end of May, we loaded up the rest of our stuff (with Caleb throwing away everything that he deemed "wouldn't fit" (humidifiers, Baby Einstein Play Mat's..) Needless to say, I was a little bitter. But he assured me, he would replace them... I just felt wasteful. There really wasn't any extra room though. Everyone was sitting on stuff and poor Sam was squished into his car seat while everything was stuffed in around him. This began our 7 day journey across the country to California.
It was pretty uneventful (Praise the Lord)... We drove each day until about 5pm.. because that's when Sam decided he'd had enough. He was a big trooper! My favorite state was New Mexico... It was absolutely beautiful! Finally we pushed on the last day and made it to CA. It would be our home for the next 10 days as Caleb checked into his unit and got new orders for us to travel to OK and check into his MOS school.
I did not want to leave CA, especially for OK. When we arrived, I was surprised to find it much bigger than I thought it would be. It has mostly everything you need. Except a TARGET! How does that happen.. To go anywhere other than Lawton, you have to drive at least 50 miles.. LAME. We have yet to leave this hole. We have met some pretty great people though and Sam has made some friends that he plays with everyday, so this Momma is happy :) The best thing though that has come out of this place is of course my baby boy, Kiam Elias Peterson.
Kiam was born on August 14, 2012 at 9:09 pm. He weighed 8 lbs 1 oz and 20.5 inches :) A few days before I started having consistent contractions that put me in the hospital without any progress past 4 cm dilated. So lucky me, I had all the pains of labor without the baby. Thank goodness my mom and aunt were here to help with Sam, because I literally couldn't do anything. Ugh, I cringe just thinking about the pain. It continued 2 days until Tuesday, right as dinner was about to be finished, I started having a ton of pain again... Nothing more than had been happening.. I didn't feel contractions, just a lot of pain. I decided to go to the hospital because I was gonna make them give me pain meds! (They wouldn't give me anything the first time I went) Nurse walks in, checks me, and I'm 7 cm dilated. WHAT?! I didn't even know I was in labor! I almost didn't come in! I ended up giving birth about an hour and half later with only a few pushes. That kid just popped right out!
But now it's 6 weeks later and I have pretty well adjusted to being a mother of 2 babies :) I feel like a professional diaper changer. We have a good schedule going on and not to mention I have the best husband who helps me probably more than he should :) I am one blessed wife and momma!
This is super long and I apologize. One person will probably read this because he a) feels sorry for me and b) it's about him too. (egocentric... jk babe)
Thursday, March 8, 2012
missing you.
When I met Caleb and we started dating, one of his famous lines was "I'm going into the Marine Corps for 5 years and I'm not getting married until after I get out." Of course he ate his words because we were married a little over a year later. <3 I knew from day one what kind of life I would be getting myself into if things worked out with us....or at least I thought I did. To me, it sounded like adventure. Traveling and moving from place to place and being a Marine wife sounded exciting to me.
As I sit here through the 4th Fex (I think), I'm thinking about the times I have with my little family. I realize I take my husband and the time I have with him for granted. I get so caught up in going through the motions of life that I rarely stop to appreciate what I actually have and who I have to share it with. I'm listening to our song that we danced to at our wedding (Look After You by The Fray) and I just start to enter into dreamland.
My husband is the hardest working man I know. He leaves the house anywhere between 4 and 6 am each day and doesn't usually get home until after 6 or 7. After being gone all day, he'll come home and try to help me with Sam if I need it and then start to work on stuff for the next day... and I always feel like there's something. On the weekends he doesn't just lay around, he wants to get out and spend time with us or even help me clean the house and he'll do whatever little projects need to get done around the house.
On top of working his butt off, he has the sweetest heart. He's so focused on putting others before himself and leading a Christ-like life that I can help but swoon over him. <3 He's always asking me what he can do for me or Sam. As I sit here, I honestly can't think of one time that he put himself before his family. He's so incredibly loving and affectionate and takes the time to be attentive to me. He doesn't complain and is always appreciative of everything I do even if it doesn't seem like a lot. I'm beyond blessed to have found someone so genuine who is a great leader and provider for his family. I definitely don't deserve him, but I'm incredibly thankful nonetheless.
Being a Marine wife proved to be more difficult than I anticipated, but I'm proud of my husband and I stand behind him 100%. We've got 2 more Fex's left and only one more day until I see my sweet, sexy husband :) Counting down the hours...
As I sit here through the 4th Fex (I think), I'm thinking about the times I have with my little family. I realize I take my husband and the time I have with him for granted. I get so caught up in going through the motions of life that I rarely stop to appreciate what I actually have and who I have to share it with. I'm listening to our song that we danced to at our wedding (Look After You by The Fray) and I just start to enter into dreamland.
My husband is the hardest working man I know. He leaves the house anywhere between 4 and 6 am each day and doesn't usually get home until after 6 or 7. After being gone all day, he'll come home and try to help me with Sam if I need it and then start to work on stuff for the next day... and I always feel like there's something. On the weekends he doesn't just lay around, he wants to get out and spend time with us or even help me clean the house and he'll do whatever little projects need to get done around the house.
On top of working his butt off, he has the sweetest heart. He's so focused on putting others before himself and leading a Christ-like life that I can help but swoon over him. <3 He's always asking me what he can do for me or Sam. As I sit here, I honestly can't think of one time that he put himself before his family. He's so incredibly loving and affectionate and takes the time to be attentive to me. He doesn't complain and is always appreciative of everything I do even if it doesn't seem like a lot. I'm beyond blessed to have found someone so genuine who is a great leader and provider for his family. I definitely don't deserve him, but I'm incredibly thankful nonetheless.
Being a Marine wife proved to be more difficult than I anticipated, but I'm proud of my husband and I stand behind him 100%. We've got 2 more Fex's left and only one more day until I see my sweet, sexy husband :) Counting down the hours...
Wednesday, February 29, 2012
oh, is that how that happens?
When we found out I was pregnant with our 2nd baby, I was completely shocked, and to be honest, scared to death. I had gone to the doctor a few weeks prior who had given me a blood test and assured me I was NOT pregnant, so I was feeling pretty good. One morning I woke up feeling out of sorts and decided to take a home pregnancy test and wouldn't you know that blasted thing said "pregnant." Talk about a whirl of emotions. I'm not gonna sit here and tell you I was excited, because I wasn't. So many thoughts were zooming through my head and happiness wasn't one of them.
I was worried about how I was going to handle 2 babies... I was worried about how we were going to afford everything... How we were going to do this with family so far away and us constantly moving.... And the biggest thought I had was I'm going to lose my one on one time with Sam which meant more to me than anything.
In today's society, it's out of the norm for people to have a lot of kids. Most people only have a few. When we announced that we were pregnant with baby #2 so close in age to Sam, people were surprised and made jokes asking us if we knew how people got pregnant... Of course I laughed this off, mostly because it was actually funny the first time.... not so much around the 5th :). I felt judged and misunderstood... I felt like people were looking at me asking "what is she thinking?"
Before and after Caleb and I got married, we discussed a lot about kids and how many we wanted. Our conclusion came to as many as God wants us to have. We wanted to raise children to love the Lord and our prayer for them is that they choose to follow God with their lives. We decided not to go on birth control (which got people thinking we were crazy). After a lot of prayer and discussion, I felt like it wasn't for me. I had a sense of conviction about it. I'm not saying that I think birth control is a sin and people shouldn't take it, but for me it wasn't the right thing. I'm somewhat of a control freak and have to have everything planned and it is so hard for me to let go and let God lead me instead of trying to drag Him along with my plans. With children, I felt the strong need to completely let go and give it over to God, and for me, that meant not taking birth control and accepting as many children as God would like to bless our family with.
When I found out I was pregnant, I completely lost sight of this. All I could do was cry and worry. In Matthew 6:30 Jesus says "Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?" How did I have so much faith and at that moment throw it all away because I felt scared? Had He not always provided or been there for me even in the toughest of times? I'm ashamed of my reaction because I'll never get that back, but through this I am reminded again of why we have chosen to follow God's path for us and not our own and what that continues to entail.
It's not going to be easy. It's gonna be really hard and sometimes I'm not going to feel like I know what I'm doing or have the answers, but through these times, it draws me closer to God and what more could I ask for? "The Lord is my strength and my shield; in Him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to Him." Psalm 28:7
I was worried about how I was going to handle 2 babies... I was worried about how we were going to afford everything... How we were going to do this with family so far away and us constantly moving.... And the biggest thought I had was I'm going to lose my one on one time with Sam which meant more to me than anything.
In today's society, it's out of the norm for people to have a lot of kids. Most people only have a few. When we announced that we were pregnant with baby #2 so close in age to Sam, people were surprised and made jokes asking us if we knew how people got pregnant... Of course I laughed this off, mostly because it was actually funny the first time.... not so much around the 5th :). I felt judged and misunderstood... I felt like people were looking at me asking "what is she thinking?"
Before and after Caleb and I got married, we discussed a lot about kids and how many we wanted. Our conclusion came to as many as God wants us to have. We wanted to raise children to love the Lord and our prayer for them is that they choose to follow God with their lives. We decided not to go on birth control (which got people thinking we were crazy). After a lot of prayer and discussion, I felt like it wasn't for me. I had a sense of conviction about it. I'm not saying that I think birth control is a sin and people shouldn't take it, but for me it wasn't the right thing. I'm somewhat of a control freak and have to have everything planned and it is so hard for me to let go and let God lead me instead of trying to drag Him along with my plans. With children, I felt the strong need to completely let go and give it over to God, and for me, that meant not taking birth control and accepting as many children as God would like to bless our family with.
When I found out I was pregnant, I completely lost sight of this. All I could do was cry and worry. In Matthew 6:30 Jesus says "Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which today is, and tomorrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?" How did I have so much faith and at that moment throw it all away because I felt scared? Had He not always provided or been there for me even in the toughest of times? I'm ashamed of my reaction because I'll never get that back, but through this I am reminded again of why we have chosen to follow God's path for us and not our own and what that continues to entail.
It's not going to be easy. It's gonna be really hard and sometimes I'm not going to feel like I know what I'm doing or have the answers, but through these times, it draws me closer to God and what more could I ask for? "The Lord is my strength and my shield; in Him my heart trusts, and I am helped; my heart exults, and with my song I give thanks to Him." Psalm 28:7
Saturday, February 11, 2012
half way mark.
I'm not exactly an avid blogger... only because the only extra time I get I usually spend showering, so you're welcome. We are now over half way through with TBS and all I can say is PRAISE THE LORD. This has been one of the biggest challenges I have faced. Caleb gets up anywhere between 4 and 6 in the morning and usually doesn't get home until about 7 at night, which means I'm on baby duty all day everyday. Don't get me wrong, I am super blessed to have the opportunity to be a stay at home mom and be the one watching my son grow up (who is growing like a weed btw), but it is exhausting. Sometimes I just need a break and a little me time...but hey, we're more than half way done and then we go onto our next adventure.
Before having kids, the idea of Marine life excited me. Moving from place to place and getting to see all new things. Post Sam, it's a little frightening not knowing where we're going and how far from family we'll be. But don't worry, I keep my head up and try to get a little excited about the possibilities. Through TBS, I have been tested more than I think I ever have been. In this situation, you have to completely rely on your faith in the Lord or you'll go crazy. I'm blessed to serve a God who is my rock and will never leave me.
So I mentioned that Cabe is gone about a million hours a week, which makes his hourly pay less than women and children in Chinese sweatshops, but he's also gone for a week about twice a month. This gives you an idea of how little I see my husband.... so when we found out I was expecting AGAIN, I was a tad surprised. And when I say "tad", I mean I had a full on panic attack... 2 kids within 13 months of each other?? ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!?! Many many tears and freak outs later, I am getting more excited everyday with knowing that I'm giving Sam a playmate and how much fun we'll have. (As if it wasn't hard enough with one)
On March 12th we will find out if God has blessed us with a baby boy or girl, which is very exciting. We talk about names all the time and have narrowed them down to 2. We might tell you eventually ;)
Before having kids, the idea of Marine life excited me. Moving from place to place and getting to see all new things. Post Sam, it's a little frightening not knowing where we're going and how far from family we'll be. But don't worry, I keep my head up and try to get a little excited about the possibilities. Through TBS, I have been tested more than I think I ever have been. In this situation, you have to completely rely on your faith in the Lord or you'll go crazy. I'm blessed to serve a God who is my rock and will never leave me.
So I mentioned that Cabe is gone about a million hours a week, which makes his hourly pay less than women and children in Chinese sweatshops, but he's also gone for a week about twice a month. This gives you an idea of how little I see my husband.... so when we found out I was expecting AGAIN, I was a tad surprised. And when I say "tad", I mean I had a full on panic attack... 2 kids within 13 months of each other?? ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!?! Many many tears and freak outs later, I am getting more excited everyday with knowing that I'm giving Sam a playmate and how much fun we'll have. (As if it wasn't hard enough with one)
On March 12th we will find out if God has blessed us with a baby boy or girl, which is very exciting. We talk about names all the time and have narrowed them down to 2. We might tell you eventually ;)
Saturday, September 17, 2011
baby couponer.
Every time I watch Extreme Couponing on TLC, I get this EXTREME motivation and drive to become just like these crazy women who hold up lines and get super stressed out, BUT save hundreds of dollars every shopping trip!
I surf the internet looking for "how to's" on awesome money saving websites trying to morph into one of these women, but have sadly only become what I like to call a "baby couponer."
I have only mastered CVS. I don't know if it's because my husband works there and I feel comfortable shopping there or if it is truly the easiest place to save money. I'll share what I've learned and what I do to accomplish saving money, because it is addicting and everyone should do it... ( just don't go to my CVS, because I hate when they're out of what I'm buying!) :)
1) Every Sunday I buy 1-2 papers that have the inserts with coupons. I come home to cut them out and sort them into piles... baby, food, toiletries, and won't use. The ones I will use I put into separate envelopes.
2) I get the CVS ad either in paper form or from the internet and make a list of things I need or want. It's important to look for things that are on sale and also will give you cash back (ECB/Extra Care Buck). Take note of items that you can only buy one per household on sale.
3) I will go into CVS and scan my extra care card several times to get various coupons you can use within the store. Any CVS coupon can be used with as many other CVS coupons you want. And sometimes you will get CVS coupons based on what you have bought previously.
4) I will organize my cut out coupons and combine them with my CVS coupons and double check that these items are already on sale and get will ECB's back.
5) Then you buy! If you want to you can ring up several transactions so that you can use your ECB's on your other items.
Example: This week CVS was running their Huggies jumbo pack of diapers on sale for $8.99 (originally $11.99). I had 2 CVS coupons for $1 each off Huggies diapers. I also had a $3 coupon off Huggies that I cut out of Sunday's paper.
They also had Huggies wipes on sale for $2.79 (originally $3.99). I had a cut out coupon for $.40.
They also had Johnson Bedtime Baby Lotion on sale for $2.99 (originally $5.99). I had 2 manufacturer coupons for $1 each.
I combined this with a CVS coupon I had gotten earlier this week that will take $3 off of $15 you spend on baby items.
I also used an ECB I had gotten from another item.
The total original price was $28. After having a a combo of coupons and ECB's I spent $6 and saved $22! Not to mention I got $4 more dollars I will spend on my next visit!
On the box of Pampers I saved $7 and got $3 ECB's :)
I surf the internet looking for "how to's" on awesome money saving websites trying to morph into one of these women, but have sadly only become what I like to call a "baby couponer."
I have only mastered CVS. I don't know if it's because my husband works there and I feel comfortable shopping there or if it is truly the easiest place to save money. I'll share what I've learned and what I do to accomplish saving money, because it is addicting and everyone should do it... ( just don't go to my CVS, because I hate when they're out of what I'm buying!) :)
1) Every Sunday I buy 1-2 papers that have the inserts with coupons. I come home to cut them out and sort them into piles... baby, food, toiletries, and won't use. The ones I will use I put into separate envelopes.
2) I get the CVS ad either in paper form or from the internet and make a list of things I need or want. It's important to look for things that are on sale and also will give you cash back (ECB/Extra Care Buck). Take note of items that you can only buy one per household on sale.
3) I will go into CVS and scan my extra care card several times to get various coupons you can use within the store. Any CVS coupon can be used with as many other CVS coupons you want. And sometimes you will get CVS coupons based on what you have bought previously.
4) I will organize my cut out coupons and combine them with my CVS coupons and double check that these items are already on sale and get will ECB's back.
5) Then you buy! If you want to you can ring up several transactions so that you can use your ECB's on your other items.
Example: This week CVS was running their Huggies jumbo pack of diapers on sale for $8.99 (originally $11.99). I had 2 CVS coupons for $1 each off Huggies diapers. I also had a $3 coupon off Huggies that I cut out of Sunday's paper.
They also had Huggies wipes on sale for $2.79 (originally $3.99). I had a cut out coupon for $.40.
They also had Johnson Bedtime Baby Lotion on sale for $2.99 (originally $5.99). I had 2 manufacturer coupons for $1 each.
I combined this with a CVS coupon I had gotten earlier this week that will take $3 off of $15 you spend on baby items.
I also used an ECB I had gotten from another item.
The total original price was $28. After having a a combo of coupons and ECB's I spent $6 and saved $22! Not to mention I got $4 more dollars I will spend on my next visit!
Friday, September 9, 2011
mom cuts, sweatpants, and no makeup.
Growing up I've always looked at mothers wondering why they all insist on getting the "mom" cut, why they are usually never wear makeup, and why they never want to dress up and wear cute clothes. I have finally realized exactly why they quit trying, because I am SO there.. well, minus the mom cut.
I would love to have my hair long again and wear it down and curly, but unfortunately I have a 2 month old that LOVES to grab at anything he can get a hold of....so I wear my hair in a ponytail everyday and he still grabs all the baby hairs he can find. Thanks, Sam. Do I need to shave my head?
I would love to go shopping and dress in super cute fall clothes and get new heels, but as I stand in the isle, all I find myself looking at is sweats and flats. I feel like without them, I'm in a constant state of uncomfortable.
I would love to look pretty for my husband and myself and put on makeup, but what's the point? If I stay inside all day with Sam, I might as well go natural. He doesn't mind :) And I guess I'm saving money on makeup, so yeah!
I'm sorry for silently judging all moms who decided to leave the house looking a hot mess, because I have jumped on that band wagon and I'm not even ashamed. Maybe when he's older I'll try again....but don't count on it.
I would love to have my hair long again and wear it down and curly, but unfortunately I have a 2 month old that LOVES to grab at anything he can get a hold of....so I wear my hair in a ponytail everyday and he still grabs all the baby hairs he can find. Thanks, Sam. Do I need to shave my head?
I would love to go shopping and dress in super cute fall clothes and get new heels, but as I stand in the isle, all I find myself looking at is sweats and flats. I feel like without them, I'm in a constant state of uncomfortable.
I would love to look pretty for my husband and myself and put on makeup, but what's the point? If I stay inside all day with Sam, I might as well go natural. He doesn't mind :) And I guess I'm saving money on makeup, so yeah!
I'm sorry for silently judging all moms who decided to leave the house looking a hot mess, because I have jumped on that band wagon and I'm not even ashamed. Maybe when he's older I'll try again....but don't count on it.
Monday, August 22, 2011
one down, a million to go...
Last week my baby boy turned 1 month old. WHAT?!?! I feel like I just brought him home from the hospital! And now I'm starting to sound like my parents. Great.
Being a mom is so much more different than I ever anticipated. This kid survives because of me. No pressure. I feel like I have no time to do anything I want to do, let alone need to do. Where the time came from to write this, I have no idea. My day consists of changing a diaper, feeding, burping, fighting with Sam to put him to sleep, repeat. I do this all day with an occasional bath, projectile poop/pee, and hysterical crying fit thrown in the mix. Needless to say, by the end of the day I am exhausted.
Samuel wakes up about 2-3 times a night. It isn't so bad anymore. I guess I've gotten used to it. Caleb sleeps right through it, which at times has made me want to throw things at him...which I'm sure I have :) I have finally stopped being so clingy and am okay with people holding and watching him. Caleb watched him for the first time today for maybe an hour. When I called to check up on him, I thought the poor boy was going to have a panic attack. Sam had gas and was hungry and Caleb couldn't figure out how to console him at first. When I got home, I found him bouncing him on the bed in the dark. All I could do was giggle a little. Caleb knew it was hard, but I don't think he fully realized what I go through until today. When I relieved him, all he said was "And I didn't even get to play Call of Duty!" Nice. I was proud of him for putting in the work and being so nurturing, because I must say that I was nervous, but now I know I have nothing to worry about. Caleb is an excellent father and an incredible husband. I am so thankful to have him in my life!
Caleb is still awaiting orders from the Marine Corps for his TBS report date in October. For now, we're just enjoying spending time with family and friends in Cleveland and are looking forward to the next chapter in our lives.
Being a mom is so much more different than I ever anticipated. This kid survives because of me. No pressure. I feel like I have no time to do anything I want to do, let alone need to do. Where the time came from to write this, I have no idea. My day consists of changing a diaper, feeding, burping, fighting with Sam to put him to sleep, repeat. I do this all day with an occasional bath, projectile poop/pee, and hysterical crying fit thrown in the mix. Needless to say, by the end of the day I am exhausted.
Samuel wakes up about 2-3 times a night. It isn't so bad anymore. I guess I've gotten used to it. Caleb sleeps right through it, which at times has made me want to throw things at him...which I'm sure I have :) I have finally stopped being so clingy and am okay with people holding and watching him. Caleb watched him for the first time today for maybe an hour. When I called to check up on him, I thought the poor boy was going to have a panic attack. Sam had gas and was hungry and Caleb couldn't figure out how to console him at first. When I got home, I found him bouncing him on the bed in the dark. All I could do was giggle a little. Caleb knew it was hard, but I don't think he fully realized what I go through until today. When I relieved him, all he said was "And I didn't even get to play Call of Duty!" Nice. I was proud of him for putting in the work and being so nurturing, because I must say that I was nervous, but now I know I have nothing to worry about. Caleb is an excellent father and an incredible husband. I am so thankful to have him in my life!
Caleb is still awaiting orders from the Marine Corps for his TBS report date in October. For now, we're just enjoying spending time with family and friends in Cleveland and are looking forward to the next chapter in our lives.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
same same, but different.
So, I know I'm the worst blogger EVER and haven't updated this like I should. So here it goes. I'm sure you've all been waiting :)
The time finally came on July 18 @ 6:24 p.m. My precious baby boy arrived on a Monday weighing 7 lbs 12 oz and was 20.5 inches in length. This is a time that I anxiously awaited for what felt like forever! I thought I was ready...little did I know that my life was about to be so much more different than I ever imagined.
My pregnancy was pretty normal. Not really any problems. We had several ultrasounds, because they were concerned about his growing weight and size of his head...we ended up being induced at 39 weeks, which I was stoked about considering I was MISERABLE!
I went in at midnight on the 18th and was given meds to get the cervix going. I had an amazing team that consisted of our beautiful mothers, our dear sister, and my sweet husband. Words cannot express how much they meant to me. In the morning I was given Pitocin (which I was petrified of) and surprisingly enough, I could definitely handle these contractions. I didn't have any pain killers and I thought it was looking good for no epidural. Around early afternoon, my doctor came in to break my water. Boy, was I unprepared. Not only did that hurt like WOAH, but the contractions that came after went from being a 2 to an 8 in no time! I quickly asked for pain killers which did NOTHING, but make me high as a kite. Funny, I'm sure. After having a drunken talk with my husband about deciding on an epidural, I made my decision.... Operation GET ME ONE NOW! Best decision I have EVER made in my life. Before I knew it I was ready to start pushing. Also, another thing I was unprepared for. It took 1.5 hours of hard pushing. Can we say exhausting? I've never been so tired. After all that pushing and hearing the entire time that he's almost here, he actually did come out! (without feeling it, thank you, Lord!).
I didn't get to initially hold him, because he had to get checked out. So I watched from the bed as everyone else got to admire him and take his sweet little face in. This was the hardest part of the whole process. I've waited all this time to finally meet my precious man and he's just out of reach. All I wanted was to touch him, hold him, look into his beautiful eyes.
Finally, the moment was mine. I was able to meet God's amazing gift to me. He was absolutely perfect. The love and admiration I felt was indescribable. I could only praise the Father for His greatness.
Caleb and I were blessed to have tons of family and friends to visit us in the hospital and at home for our first week. Our wonderful mothers were there to help us, which was amazing! Now we're just a family of 3 and on our own. So many emotions, so many thoughts, and can I just say, So many diapers?!?! For real.
Everything has been so different than I could have possibly imagined. I'm so much more protective than I thought I'd be (trying to work on it). It's so hard to let go and let people help with taking care of him. I constantly think about him and if he's okay and what I can do better to make him happy. My heart breaks when I hear him cry. All of this is a recipe for disaster I'm sure. I'm hoping that I'll start to relax and ease up, but easier said than done.
The time finally came on July 18 @ 6:24 p.m. My precious baby boy arrived on a Monday weighing 7 lbs 12 oz and was 20.5 inches in length. This is a time that I anxiously awaited for what felt like forever! I thought I was ready...little did I know that my life was about to be so much more different than I ever imagined.
My pregnancy was pretty normal. Not really any problems. We had several ultrasounds, because they were concerned about his growing weight and size of his head...we ended up being induced at 39 weeks, which I was stoked about considering I was MISERABLE!
I went in at midnight on the 18th and was given meds to get the cervix going. I had an amazing team that consisted of our beautiful mothers, our dear sister, and my sweet husband. Words cannot express how much they meant to me. In the morning I was given Pitocin (which I was petrified of) and surprisingly enough, I could definitely handle these contractions. I didn't have any pain killers and I thought it was looking good for no epidural. Around early afternoon, my doctor came in to break my water. Boy, was I unprepared. Not only did that hurt like WOAH, but the contractions that came after went from being a 2 to an 8 in no time! I quickly asked for pain killers which did NOTHING, but make me high as a kite. Funny, I'm sure. After having a drunken talk with my husband about deciding on an epidural, I made my decision.... Operation GET ME ONE NOW! Best decision I have EVER made in my life. Before I knew it I was ready to start pushing. Also, another thing I was unprepared for. It took 1.5 hours of hard pushing. Can we say exhausting? I've never been so tired. After all that pushing and hearing the entire time that he's almost here, he actually did come out! (without feeling it, thank you, Lord!).
I didn't get to initially hold him, because he had to get checked out. So I watched from the bed as everyone else got to admire him and take his sweet little face in. This was the hardest part of the whole process. I've waited all this time to finally meet my precious man and he's just out of reach. All I wanted was to touch him, hold him, look into his beautiful eyes.
Finally, the moment was mine. I was able to meet God's amazing gift to me. He was absolutely perfect. The love and admiration I felt was indescribable. I could only praise the Father for His greatness.
Caleb and I were blessed to have tons of family and friends to visit us in the hospital and at home for our first week. Our wonderful mothers were there to help us, which was amazing! Now we're just a family of 3 and on our own. So many emotions, so many thoughts, and can I just say, So many diapers?!?! For real.
Everything has been so different than I could have possibly imagined. I'm so much more protective than I thought I'd be (trying to work on it). It's so hard to let go and let people help with taking care of him. I constantly think about him and if he's okay and what I can do better to make him happy. My heart breaks when I hear him cry. All of this is a recipe for disaster I'm sure. I'm hoping that I'll start to relax and ease up, but easier said than done.
Saturday, February 26, 2011
forever waiting.
Is it just me, or is your whole life devoted to waiting? Waiting to hear if you got the job, waiting to see that special someone, or waiting for the clock to strike 5 so you can go home. Today I am 19 weeks pregnant and I have been waiting to find out what this 10 inch baby in my stomach is. Boy? Girl? Boy? Girl? Boy? Girl? It's driving me nuts! As most of you know, I'm not a very patient person. Someone always has to say "well, patience is a virtue." Blah. Blah. Blah. I get it and trying to work on it, but failing miserably. I just need extra help from the Man Upstairs (my Jesus, in case you weren't sure).
My two sisters-in-law are pregnant too. Krista is due two weeks before me and Aubrey is due one month after me. Krista just found out she's having a boy (second one) and my fate is sealed. The Peterson boys are incapable of producing females. There are not any women in this family except the ones that married in! What did I sign up for? Don't get me wrong, I would love to have a boy or two, but I would LOVE to have a girl or twelve. :) My waiting misery is gone in exactly 9 days and I will confirm that I too am carrying ANOTHER Peterson boy.
All of this may sound like complaining to some, but I assure you it's not. Just stating the facts. I mean, I'll be thrilled with whatever God chooses to give me. I feel blessed more than you can imagine that he gave me a baby at all, regardless of if I get 10 boys (but just to be clear, I would LOVE a girl). This whole pregnancy thing is just a whole lot different than I thought it would be. It's a big game of waiting... waiting to see if you're actually pregnant, waiting to find out the sex, and waiting for that baby to make it's big debut. And why is it that when people gush over babies and being pregnant, do they not mention the gas, headaches, dizziness, loss of balance, swollen feet, uncomfortableness, throwing up, heartburn, and countless hours of sleep you DON'T get at night???? But, I suppose that's a whole other thing I shouldn't get into right now. Whatever... I'll just sit here waiting....waiting for next Monday to come. I promise you, that if this baby decides to be shy and not show us his/her gender, I will have to be drug out of that doctors office!
My two sisters-in-law are pregnant too. Krista is due two weeks before me and Aubrey is due one month after me. Krista just found out she's having a boy (second one) and my fate is sealed. The Peterson boys are incapable of producing females. There are not any women in this family except the ones that married in! What did I sign up for? Don't get me wrong, I would love to have a boy or two, but I would LOVE to have a girl or twelve. :) My waiting misery is gone in exactly 9 days and I will confirm that I too am carrying ANOTHER Peterson boy.
All of this may sound like complaining to some, but I assure you it's not. Just stating the facts. I mean, I'll be thrilled with whatever God chooses to give me. I feel blessed more than you can imagine that he gave me a baby at all, regardless of if I get 10 boys (but just to be clear, I would LOVE a girl). This whole pregnancy thing is just a whole lot different than I thought it would be. It's a big game of waiting... waiting to see if you're actually pregnant, waiting to find out the sex, and waiting for that baby to make it's big debut. And why is it that when people gush over babies and being pregnant, do they not mention the gas, headaches, dizziness, loss of balance, swollen feet, uncomfortableness, throwing up, heartburn, and countless hours of sleep you DON'T get at night???? But, I suppose that's a whole other thing I shouldn't get into right now. Whatever... I'll just sit here waiting....waiting for next Monday to come. I promise you, that if this baby decides to be shy and not show us his/her gender, I will have to be drug out of that doctors office!
Monday, January 17, 2011
official start into Marine life...
As I entered into my last week of my first trimester, we headed to Murfreesboro, TN to witness a great moment in our lives. 12 weeks of extremely hard work, no sleep, and 84 letters later, Caleb graduated from the Marine Corps Officer Candidate School (OCS) in July, 2010 in Quantico, VA. On January 15, 2011 at 6:30 p.m., Caleb was sworn in as a 2nd Lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps.
This was an extremely proud moment in not only my life, but many others. Joined with us to celebrate Caleb's accomplishments were his mother, father, grandmother, 2 brothers, 2 sister-in-laws, nephew, cousin, and my mother :)
Watching him up there, I couldn't stop grinning from ear to ear. I was speechless to watch my loving husband finally receive his dream...the one thing he's worked so hard for. He definitely deserves it! Even with the crazy pregnancy hormones, I must say I didn't cry until he gave his little thank you speech. Thanks, Cabe. I was doing so good too!
Basic School doesn't begin until October and although my hard-working husband is disappointed, we will both be in Cleveland to fully enjoy the birth of our first child. God's Will is perfect for our lives and I'm very thankful for that. It's peaceful to know that I can rest on Him.
This was an extremely proud moment in not only my life, but many others. Joined with us to celebrate Caleb's accomplishments were his mother, father, grandmother, 2 brothers, 2 sister-in-laws, nephew, cousin, and my mother :)
Watching him up there, I couldn't stop grinning from ear to ear. I was speechless to watch my loving husband finally receive his dream...the one thing he's worked so hard for. He definitely deserves it! Even with the crazy pregnancy hormones, I must say I didn't cry until he gave his little thank you speech. Thanks, Cabe. I was doing so good too!
Basic School doesn't begin until October and although my hard-working husband is disappointed, we will both be in Cleveland to fully enjoy the birth of our first child. God's Will is perfect for our lives and I'm very thankful for that. It's peaceful to know that I can rest on Him.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)