The Moderate Mind

Jan. 10

2009-01-11T09:44:00.000-08:00

Today went OK, all things considered!

Jan. 9

2009-01-10T09:50:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a day we did not expect to go the way it did. Details on our family blog. Link in sidebar.

But, I am so excited because I just seem so much calmer in my approach to life since I have decided to act in LOVE, instead of whatever emotion crosses my day-like yesterday-fear, anger, frustration......

Jan. 8

2009-01-09T09:51:00.000-08:00

Things continue to go better. I am thrilled!

Jan. 7

2009-01-08T06:14:00.000-08:00

I chose love by not getting cranky again! This is helping me SOOOOO much! It's amazing what a few changes in behavior will do!

Now, if I could only remember to make good decisions re. food, I would be doing MUCH better-but hey, one thing at a time, right?

Jan.6

2009-01-07T06:09:00.000-08:00

I was very cranky today.......much to my embarassment, but the Lord brought to mind my decisions to act loving-so I tried, & thanks to the Holy Spirit, I was able to not LOOSE IT with anyone in my family!!!

Jan. 5

2009-01-06T05:58:00.000-08:00

How did I behave lovingly today??? I didn't LOOSE IT with family members (who shall remain nameless-ha!! ha!!!)

Jan. 4

2009-01-05T06:15:00.000-08:00

Let's see.....today I chose loving actions by doing all the lesson plans/menus & general planning for this new week.

I didn't feel like spending my Sunday afternoon that way.......but the thought that I needed to-to show my family (& myself!) love, brought me to my kitchen table to complete the task!

I'm not saying this to brag-this kind of self-dicipline is HARD for me, & Praise the Lord, He has been helping me!!!

Jan. 3

2009-01-04T06:26:00.000-08:00

I chose love.....by not being annoyed when I made supper, fed everyone supper (with some help from my great hubby!), bathed everyone (twice for Natty-don't ask!), put clean sheets on both the girls' beds (with MORE help from Dave, otherwise the 30 minute project would have taken even longer).

These things are just LIFE.....& it it has taken me a long time to realise I need to act loving, even when they all happen at once!

I am realising, too, that when I act loving.......my emotions are more moderate! YEAH!!! :-)

Jan. 2

2009-01-02T20:32:00.000-08:00

I chose moderation today be returning to Weight Watchers. This shows love for myself......I need to take better care of myself.

I also bought a bracelet for myself a few days ago with some hearts on it-to remind me to act in loving ways this year-no matter how I feel!

TIME: Nov.9-15th

2008-11-10T15:30:00.000-08:00

Nov. 9th: Been getting to bed WAY TOO LATE!!!

Nov. 10th: Forgot at night that I would need to record my time to bed the next morning! YIKES! In bed at like 11:45!

Nov. 11th: Up past my betime again!

Nov. 12th:

Nov. 13th:

Nov. 14th:

Nov. 15th:

MONEY: Nov. 9-15th

2008-11-10T15:29:00.000-08:00

Nov. 9th: Didn't spend any $.

Nov. 10th: Did spend money when I went out to eat & at the grocery store-but I stuck to my list!

Nov. 11th: Spent money on ballet shoes for RUTHIE!!!! :)

Nov. 12th:

Nov. 13th:

Nov. 14th:

Nov. 15th:

FOOD: Nov. 9-15

2008-11-10T15:26:00.000-08:00

Nov. 9th: Did ok. Didn't eat past 7:30pm

Nov. 10th: Did ok again. Did eat past 7:30-went out with some friends.

Nov. 11th: Did ok.....did not eat past 7:30-except for a piece of candy or two!

Nov. 12th:

Nov. 13th:

Nov. 14th:

Nov. 15th:

TIME: Nov. 2-8

2008-11-02T13:24:00.000-08:00

Nov. 2nd: Was not in bed on time.......slight family issues got in the way. :)

Nov. 3rd: Ditto....was 10:15 or so..

OOOOOPS-again!

I'll remember tomorow-I promise!!!

MONEY: Nov. 2-8

2008-11-02T13:23:00.000-08:00

Nov. 2nd: Spent only what was necessary, & got lots of groceries we really needed.

Nov. 3rd: Spent no money.

FOOD: Nov.2-8

2008-11-02T13:21:00.000-08:00

Nov. 2nd: Did ok, but didn't journal.

Nov. 3rd: Ditto...

OOOPS! Here we go again!

Ode to a neglected blog:

2008-11-02T13:07:00.000-08:00

Oh, how do I neglect Thee?
Let me count the ways.

I neglect Thee in August
I neglect Thee in September
I neglect Thee in October…..

I neglect Thee through new flooring installation
I neglect Thee while cruising
I neglect Thee while “Single” parenting

I neglect Thee the worst…..when Thy guilt thrust upon me is too much to bear.
But, here & now I pledge Thee my faithful attention & care.

Planned Blog Break

2008-08-25T07:52:00.000-07:00

Flooring is all being replaced!

See my other blog for updates!

TIME: Aug.11-16

2008-08-12T06:53:00.000-07:00

Aug. 11: In bed at 10:15, which isn't bad, considering all I have been trying to accomplish! Starting school tomorrow, & having carpet/hardwood installed.

Aug. 12: Same time!

Aug. 13: Same time.

Aug. 14: Ditto

Aug. 15: Up way too late watching a movie w/ my hubby!!!!

MONEY: Aug. 11-16

2008-08-12T06:52:00.000-07:00

Aug. 11: Didn't spend any money.

Aug. 12: Bought school supplies.

Aug. 13: A few more school suplies

Aug. 14: Didn't go anywhere.

Aug. 15: Didn't go anywhere.

FOOD: Aug. 11-16

2008-08-12T06:50:00.000-07:00

Aug. 11: Have gone to a hopefully easier way of tracking-eating similarly every day, except supper, which is a WW menu.

Aug 12: Did ok.....

Aug 13: Went out to dinner w/ the family last night. Ate a HUGE salad & then little bits of what I wanted from the rest of the buffet.

Aug. 14: Not sure

Aug. 15: Did ok, but I need to start planning my WHOLE DAY a bit more.......we'll see if I can't squeeze that in! (wink!)

Blog Break

2008-07-24T07:48:00.001-07:00

See my other blog!

See you all on the flip side!

TIME: July 20-26

2008-07-20T06:26:00.001-07:00

July 20: Up way too late-began packing for our trip, & got a bunch done-which feels OH SO GOOD!!!

July 21: Ditto.

July 22: Stayed up way too late again, but I feel REAL good about where I am on the packing!

MONEY: July 20-26

2008-07-20T06:25:00.000-07:00

July 20: Didn't spend anything-well except for a few $s on food for a church potluck.
July 21: Spent money at Babies R Us. New sling, presents for a birthday boy, whose b-day is while we're gone.

July 22: Didn't spend anything.

FOOD: July 20-26

2008-07-20T06:17:00.000-07:00

July 20: I really have no idea. This can be SUPER hard, when trying to get ready for a trip-haven't done one yet with the whole family (Daddy included).

July 21: Ditto. & I did eat past 7:30. I was STARVING!!!

July 22: Same.....& I had a cheese stick at 10:30pm after listening to my stomach growl for an hour or so!

TIME: July 13-19

2008-07-13T06:09:00.003-07:00

July 13: Went to bed at 10:30pm.

July 14: Turned off light at 11pm....

July 15: Close to mid-night..... YIKES!!!

July 16: Late. That's all I'm gonna say!

July 17: Late. Again.

July 18: Slumber party with Ana, so up a bit late.....but not as bad as the rest of the week!

July 19: Up too late.......

MONEY: July 13-19

2008-07-13T06:09:00.001-07:00

July 13: Didn't spend anything but Wendy's for lunch.

July 14: Didn't spend anything!

July 15: Bought travel stuff for BIG TRIP coming up!

July 16: Bought new shoes for me, shorts for Ana (will that girl ever slow down growing?!?!?) & the napkins for window re-do, posted on my family blog!

July 17: Just bought milk.

July 18: Didn't buy anything.

July 19: Only bought Subway for lunch...

FOOD: July 13-19

2008-07-13T06:08:00.001-07:00

July 13: Have been marking off boxes for three days now! I did eat past 7:30, because we were out enjoying the day at Garden of the Gods until 7:45pm!

July 14: Kinda fell by the wayside. We had an "exciting" afternoon yesterday. See my other blog for details.

July 15: Marked off boxes....until the end of the day, when LIFE happened, again!

July 16: Marked off boxes, but kinda lost track.

July 17: Ditto

July 18: Did not mark off boxes. Went swimming & things were just CRAZY all day at our house!

July 19: Things are begining to gear up for our two week vacation!!! (so, no, I barely have time to eat-let alone keep track of it!)

Missed the 11th.....

2008-07-13T06:06:00.000-07:00

Sorry......too much going on!

TIME: July 6-12

2008-07-07T06:27:00.000-07:00

July 6: Turned out the lights at 10:05 pm....

July 7: Was 10:30pm......

July 8: Close to 11pm. Went to babysit for my sister, so they could go out on a date. Ana went too. Babies stayed home with dad. :-)

July 9: Bed at 10 pm.

July 10: Lights out at 10:15 or so......but Friday morning is my morning to sleep in!

MONEY: July 6-12

2008-07-07T06:26:00.000-07:00

July 6: Didn't spend anything....

July 7: Ditto. Payday is the 8th. :-)

July 8: Took a list to the store when I shopped, but didn't stick to it very well, as we were out of just about everything!

July 9: Bought a new rocker to rock my babies (& sometimes even my big girl!!)

July 10: Didn't spend anything....

FOOD: July 6-12

2008-07-07T06:04:00.000-07:00

July 6: Have no idea how things went. Went to Golden Corral for lunch....yummy!

July 7: Still didn't journal or keep track.....

July 8: Ditto....

July 9: Marked off boxes!!!!!

July 10: Ditto!!!! Two days in a row!

TIME: July 1-5

2008-07-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

July 1: Up way too late last night, because of my DATE night w/ my hubby!

July 2: Was in bed at 9:30....for possibly the first time since I began this journey.......exhaustion from swimming lessons in the AM, & swimming for several hours yesterday afternoon.

July 3: In bed by 10.....

July 4: Up way too late watching fireworks!

MONEY: July 1-5

2008-07-02T05:59:00.000-07:00

July 1: Went into Wal-mart w/out a list, but came out w/ only what I needed. YEAH, me!!!

July 2: Went into Target & came out with only what I needed!!!!!

July 3: Didn't shop.

July 4: Ditto....

FOOD: July 1-5

2008-07-02T05:58:00.000-07:00

July 1: Did OK, but didn't journal. Life has been CRAZY. Swimming lessons, Doctor's appointments, A DATE LAST NIGHT WITH MY HUBBY!! Etc.......

July 2: Things have just been SO crazy with swimming lessons every day......& the attempt to get three kids across town......& back home, naps, feeding them.....etc. Haven't kept track at all.

July 3: Ditto.....

July 4: Ditto....although I did drink all my water. Long hot day in the sun! Happy Independance Day, everyone!!!!

TIME: June 22-28

2008-06-23T06:35:00.000-07:00

June 22: Went to bed too late.....trying to plan our Monday, & made the mistake of picking up a book after that.......

June 23: Turned out the lights before 10pm.....& decided that Natty doesn't need to have his 4:30am bottle anymore. He has been hard to wake up each morning for it......so, I guess he can wait another couple of hours. (which will give me another 1/2 hour of sleep each morning!!! YEAH!!! )

June 24: Turned out the light way too late, but we had a bit of excitement around our house last night-see my other blog for details. Took a while to calm down from that incident!

June 25: In bed by 10.

June 26: Way too late, but had dinner with family, & didn't get kids in bed until almost 10! (& me later than that!)

June 27: Up late-watched a movie with my hubby!

June 28: Ditto

MONEY: June 22-28

2008-06-23T06:33:00.000-07:00

June 22: Did ok. Did stop by the grocery on the way home from church last night, & went in w/ out a list, but bought some healthy snacks for myself.

June 23: Didn't shop.

June 24: Bought a chore planner online, which I am super excited about!

June 25: Not sure.

June 26: Birthday shopping for the Birthday girl!!!! (Ruthie)

June 27: Spent $ on food for Ruth's b-day. Played at the movie theater fountains for a b-day activity, which was free!!!!

June 28: Spent money on a "welcome to the family" adoption party for a friend of ours (a 12 year old girl) which was SUPER fun! We love you, Mattie!

FOOD: June 22-28

2008-06-23T06:27:00.000-07:00

June 22: Have done ok, although not eating past 7:30 has been a bit of a challenge, due to the craziness of life right now! Bought a 3 mo journal at Weight Watchers so I can begin that again, now that life life has settled down just a bit......yes, I know I just said things were crazy & calm-in the same paragraph, but I'm sure some of you understand that, huh?!?!? (laugh)

June 23: Didn't eat after 7:30. Went for a hike & caried one of the babies all the way, so I was starving!!
Didn't write down accurately what I ate, although I tried. Gave up about half-way through the afternoon, since I was just grazing.....& exhausted!

June 24: Didn't eat past 7:30, but.....was hungry. Journalling started out ok, but then went by the wayside later in the day.

June 25: Ditto

June 26: Don't know much of what I did. Too busy to journal.....but tried to do OK.

June 27: Too busy to journal. Too busy to eat, until the end of the day! Happy birthday, Ruth!!!

June 28: The day got away from me before I realised what had happened!

TIME: June 8-14

2008-06-09T07:01:00.000-07:00

June 8: Got to bed by 10 pm.....

June 9: Ditto....

June 10: Ditto.

MONEY: June 8-14

2008-06-09T07:00:00.000-07:00

June 8: Have done ok here as well, as I have been too busy to shop much....

June 9: YEAH!!!! Did my first shopping trip with my new menu. Was able to stick to the list.

June 10: Didn't shop....

FOOD: June 8-14

2008-06-09T06:57:00.000-07:00

June 8: Did OK......
Did eat past 7:30 a bit because of when we got home from church.....

June 9: Didn't eat past 7:30.

June 10: Did eat past 7:30. We didn't sit down until 7pm.

SICK.....

2008-06-06T15:52:00.000-07:00

Will start again Sunday......

TIME: June 1-7

2008-06-02T10:44:00.000-07:00

June 1: Up way tooooo late!!!!

June 2: In bed by 10pm-not bad for all the craziness in my life right now!

June 3: Lights out by 10:15...

MONEY: June 1-7

2008-06-02T10:42:00.000-07:00

June 1: Didn't spend anything.....

June 2: Ditto

June 3: Ditto....

FOOD: June 1-8

2008-06-02T06:36:00.001-07:00

June 1: Ate yogurt/cereal after getting home (at around 8:30pm) from a long day-helping sister & family move into their new house here-from Minnesota.

June 2: Out to eat, but finished by 7:30....

June 3: I'm ashamed to tell you.....I ate cookies after 7:30....just cause I wanted to. Now I feel guilty enough, though, that it won't happen again!

TIME: May 26th-31st

2008-05-27T05:29:00.000-07:00

May 26: Have been doing ok getting to bed.....in bed by 9:45, but not turning out lights right away....

May 27: In bed by 10:00....

May 28: late night.

May 29: Ditto.....

MONEY: May 26th-31st

2008-05-27T05:28:00.000-07:00

May 26: Haven't really been anywhere to shop...

May 27: Got in & out of Wal-Mart (the bane of my exsistence) with only what I needed!

(isn't this smilie hysterical???)

May 28: Didn't spend anything!

May 29: Ditto....

FOOD: May 26th-31st

2008-05-27T05:25:00.000-07:00

May 26: This week has been a struggle.....haven't been sitting down as a family until close to 7:30.....or have been CRAZY busy trying to get babies to bed....& never eating until AT LEAST 7:30!!!

Please pray for me!!!!

May 27: Did ok.....although I was really hungry after 7:30..

May 28: No idea how things went, as we were out for dinner & dessert w/ friends.

May 29: Didn't eat after 7:30-inspite of being STARVING hungry!!!!

TIME: May 18th-24th

2008-05-18T17:02:00.000-07:00

May 18: Wow! Have been up way too late, but have been getting ready for a few things....so, have to do it at some point!

May 19: Ditto!!

May 20: Ditto....except up w/ a sick baby....

May 21: Ditto.....

May 22: Ditto....

MONEY: May 18th-24th

2008-05-18T17:01:00.000-07:00

May 18: Didn't go anywhere...

May 19: Spent money on groceries....but needed them to go to the zoo, to avoid paying an arm & a leg there....

May 20: Didn't go anywhere.

May 21: Ditto....except the dr's office.... , for a sick little boy...

May 22: Gas & groceries!!!

FOOD: May 18th-24th

2008-05-18T16:47:00.000-07:00

May 18: Did not eat after 7:30

May 19: Ditto

May 20: Did eat a bit after 7:30, because had NO time to eat before that.......

May 21: Ditto...

May 22: Ate a few apple slices after 7:30, for the above-mentioned reason.

(I just love this apple! I had to include it when I saw it!)

FOOD: May 11th-17th

2008-05-12T06:11:00.000-07:00

May 11: Did not eat after 7:30!!!

May 12: Ditto!

May 13: Ditto!

May 14: Ditto!

May 15: Ditto!

May 16: Ditto!

May 17: Did eat after 7:30......after ballet recital was done....

MONEY: May 11th-17th

2008-05-12T06:05:00.000-07:00

May 11: We went out to lunch......for Mother's Day. Oh, it was worth every penny!!!! Sat next to a creek OUTSIDE, & ate Mexican food!!!!

May 12: Just grocery shopped-w/ no list.....but did ok. In other words got out of there w/ only ONE thing we didn't really need.

May 13: Did not go anywhere...

May 14: Bought salad supplies so I can eat a healthy lunch.....& that was it!

May 15: Didn't go anywhere.....

May 16: Ditto

May 17: Spent money on dinner out w/ Ana after her ballet recital....

TIME: May 11th-17th

2008-05-12T05:58:00.000-07:00

May 11: I headed to bed at 9:45 & did not bet the light out until 10:15.....Trying for 9pm on Monday night....

May 12: Ok, too funny....no...I did not make it to bed before 10:30.....minor catastrophe avoided w/ our kitchen garbage disposal! Read all about it on Tuesday's blog entry on my family blog....(link on sidebar)

May 13: Turned out light at 9:59!

May 14: Turned out light at 9:45.

May 15: Up way too late.....

May 16: Ditto

May 17: Due to ballet recital..... , did not get home until late........so got to bed super late..

So Sorry (again)

2008-05-07T20:55:00.000-07:00

I know some of you are coming to check this....& I have been bad about keeping it updated....

Please know that I will do better, & please don't give up on me......I need your support.

So, I have been doing ok in all areas.....but still need to hit the sack earlier every night.....

Love to all!!!

(& I will strive to be back in the swing of things by this weekend....although I will probably have more specific updates before that.....)

MONEY: April 27th-May 3rd

2008-04-28T14:49:00.000-07:00

April 27th: Did not spend money!!!!

April 28th: Ditto!

April 29th: Made a budget w/ hubby on our date last night!!!!

April 30th: Stuck to the list.....:-)

May 1st: Ditto, except for one thing of make-up.....which was really on sale...

May 2nd: Spent almost all my clothing budget in one day-on JAYHAWK B-BALL stuff!!!

FOOD: April 27th-May 3

2008-04-28T14:36:00.000-07:00

April 27th: Boy, was this weekend a challenge. Company for dinner on Friday, busy all day Saturday, bridal shower on Saturday, out for lunch on Sunday, & a dinner at church on Sunday night.....WHEW!!!

Weighed in Friday, & gained 4 pounds!!!!

April 28th: Didn't eat past 7:30. Just realised I should be recording my water intake, too. Yesterday, it was about 45 oz, I'm guessing.

April 29th: Went out to dinner w/ my hubby, so was still eating past 7:30......

April 30th: Did not eat past 7:30.....

May 1st: Ditto

May 2nd: Convinced myself having a cookie was ok....at 8:30pm!!! HUH????

TIME: April 27th-May 3rd

2008-04-28T14:28:00.000-07:00

April 27th: Went to bed a decent time....but had a hard time falling asleep.

April 28th: Lights out at 10:15, which is not bad for me......

April 29th: Ditto

April 30th: Ditto

May 1st: Lights out at 9:57

May 2nd: Blew it off....didn't even think about it...

FOOD: April 20th-26th

2008-04-21T05:41:00.000-07:00

April 20th: True confessions: Ate after 7:30, because I was still hungry, & things got crazy right before then, w/ kids needing to go to bed. I ate a few small chunks of cheese, since my stomach was still growling, & then felt so icky, I stopped.

April 21st: Ate after 7:30, probably, but I'm not sure what time we quit, since I was out w/ friends.

April 22nd: Didn't eat after 7:30-got too busy w/ kids to finish supper, so just DIDN'T EAT!!!!

April 23rd: Did eat 3 pieces of candy after 7:30.......got so busy in the nursery at church, & they were sitting in my stroller cup-holder. These are some of the yummiest candy "kisses" I have ever had-not even really kisses-just sort-of shaped that way.......

MONEY: April 20th-26th

2008-04-21T05:40:00.000-07:00

April 20th: Didn't go anywhere but church.

April 21st: Out to dinner w/ girlfriends from church, so that was it on spending $.

April 22nd: Didn't go anywhere to spend money.

April 23rd: Ditto

TIME: April 20th-26th

2008-04-21T05:32:00.000-07:00

April 20th: Got to bed at a decent time.

April 21st: Went to bed ok, but had a hard time falling asleep.

April 22nd: Got to bed fairly well. The only thing is, I haven't been reading the things I set out to-Bible or devotional. Just realised that *was* a goal of mine......oops.

April 23rd: Ditto......

FOOD: April 13th-19th

2008-04-14T11:57:00.000-07:00

April 13th: Have been doing great on not eating after 7:30. Yippee!!!

April 14th: Ditto!!! YEAH!!!

April 15th: Still going well! But, man, have I been hungry early in the morning or late at night!!

April 16th: Followed my rule!

April 17th: Ditto!!

April 18th: Same!

MONEY: April 13th-19th

2008-04-14T11:54:00.000-07:00

April 13th: Didn't buy anything.

April 14th: Ditto...

April 15th: Went in w/out a list.

April 16th: Didn't buy anything.

April 17th: Went in w/ a list & stuck to it fairly well.

April 18th: No shopping. :-)

TIME: April 13th-19th

2008-04-14T11:50:00.000-07:00

April 13th: Went to bed at a decent time-so well that I was able to go to the gym Monday am!

April 14th: Ditto.....

April 15th: Ditto, again!

April 16th: Went to bed at a great time, but due to snow, didn't make it to the gym.

April 17th: Up way too late. Don't go to the gym on Fridays anyway, so it's ok.

April 18th: Went to bed a decent time...

I'm Sorry.....

2008-04-02T21:10:00.000-07:00

I haven't been a good as I wanted to be about keping this updated.

Things have been going ok.....actually pretty well in all categories.

I will get back to being consistant about posting. I haven't forgotten, for those of you who do read it. Hopefully, tomorrow! :-)

FOOD: March 31-April 5

2008-03-31T05:56:00.000-07:00

Mar. 31st: Didn't eat after 7:30. Thought about it, but when I remembered my new rule....I knew I couldn't. I still think it's one of the easiest things I have ever tried in being healthy!

Does anyone have any other really easy tricks for me?

April 2: Still doing ok, here. Though tonight, I was SO hungry & it was a real battle.

MONEY: March 31-April 5

2008-03-31T05:55:00.000-07:00

Mar. 31st: Didn't spend any money. Didn't go anywhere but church!

April 2: Spent a bunch of money on Ana's b-day. But, stuck to the list, & the kiddos weren't crabby in the store! YEAH!!

TIME: March 31-April 5

2008-03-31T05:42:00.000-07:00

Mar. 31st: Dave got back.......we all were up way too late, as he didn't arrive until 9:30 pm.

April 2: Have been up too late....still. Having a bit of a hard time getting into a schedule. I'm sure it's the combination of a new baby & Daddy being back home.

FOOD: March 23-29th

2008-03-23T16:06:00.000-07:00

Mar. 23rd: Finished eating at about 7:35. This is the best "rule" I have ever come up w/! Once I get the hang of it, (& actually REMEMBER that it is my goal), I think it will also be easy & make me feel better.

Mar. 24th: Didn't eat after 7:30! Drank almost all my water.

Mar. 25th: Ditto, except DID drink all my water.

Mar. 26th: Finished eating at 7:30. Did not eat after that, though the thought crossed my mind several times. Drank all my water!!

Mar. 27th: Did eat after 7:30. But, when I remembered my new rule, my fork went down & that was it. Not ANOTHER bite. This is actually one of the easiest "rules" re. food I have ever tried.

Mar. 28th: Ditto.

MONEY: March 23-29th

2008-03-23T16:05:00.001-07:00

Mar. 23rd: Didn't shop.

Mar. 24th: Ditto.

Mar. 25th: Ditto.

Mar. 26th: Went in w// a list & came out w/ only things we needed-well, except sidewalk chalk for the girls. Ya!! Hooo!!! Spring has Sprung!!

Mar 27th: Don't remember.

Mar. 28th: Didn't go anywhere.

TIME: March 23-29th

2008-03-23T16:03:00.000-07:00

Mar. 23rd: Went to bed at a decent time......read a bit. But, the big news is, Natty went to bed at 7:30 pm!!! Now, today, I can finally start him going on a more normal schedule for a baby.

Mar. 24th: In bed later than I should have been. Natty went to bed well, though.

Mar. 25th: Headed to bed about 10:15 or so. Read. Natty in bed at 7:30!

Mar. 26th: In bed about 11-way later than it should be.....Natty went to sleep about 8:45. Any hints for starting to establish a schedule w/ him?

Mar. 27th: Don't rememer.

Mar.28th: Stayed up too late-watched KU Basketball w/ Ana! :-)
Mark 'em down!!! Moving on!

FOOD: March 16th-22nd

2008-03-16T06:25:00.000-07:00

Mar. 16th: Woo!! Hoo!!! Last night at about 9pm, I remembered my new goals for the next few weeks.

Trouble is, I had spent the time between about 7-9 bottling, diapering & tucking in kids. Natty is still rather difficult sometimes to get to sleep.

I did real battle in my mind about whether or not I could still eat-& have a good excuse. But, I couldn't come up w/ the good excuse, so.........

I DIDN'T EAT!!!!

Yeah!
I'm giving myself a round of applause for that one!

Mar. 17th: Man, is it harder to not eat past 7:30pm when you have company! We sat down to eat at 7pm, & had dessert after the kids went to bed.

Mar. 18th: Went out to eat at 7:30........so, there you go!

Mar. 19th: Forgot about new rules, since things were a bit CRAZY at my house yesterday.

Mar. 20th: Ditto

Mar. 21st: Ditto

Mar. 22nd: Remembered the rules!!!! At 7:11 last night, & I had started to cook myself some food, which wasn't done until 7:45......but I ate until I wasn't hungry, put the food away & didn't eat anymore!

MONEY: March 16th-22nd

2008-03-16T06:23:00.000-07:00

Mar. 16th: I figured out an easy way to not spend more money than I should. Send Dave to the store....although he sometimes comes home w/ things I wouldn't-like a huge tub of Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough.
We just joined the new COSTCO by our house-so this tub is HUGE!!!

Mar. 17th: Forgot completely about the list.

Mar. 18th: Did pretty much stick to the list, although when I realised the babies were ccoperating, & went & picked out a few Spring/Summer clothes for Ruth, which she really needed.

Mar. 19th: Didn't shop. At all!! :-)

Mar. 20th: Ditto

Mar. 21st: Ditto

Mar. 22nd: Grocery shopped & mostly stuck to the list......so, doing better in this area, I think.

TIME: March 16th-22nd

2008-03-16T06:22:00.000-07:00

Mar. 16th: Did not make my goal tonight. 1 AM. But, we thought Dave was leaving for the airport at 5 am-due to the snow.
Turns out his flight was cancelled.
I can't go to bed while he's packing though. Sweet guy TAKES OVER the whole room!!

Mar. 17th: Did not do too well today. Did not get to bed......also, didn't plan the schedule at all. Having too much fun w/ my sister & her hubby-who are here house hunting (& meeting Little Boy) YEAH!!!!!

Mar. 18th: Same today-except that we lived in the car, too, basically because I still am not organized w/ 3 kiddos!

Mar. 19th: Was up way too late.........ended up w/ other company besides my sis & brother in law.....that didn't leave until 11:45. We had a GREAT time, though.

Mar. 20th: Up too late again.....

Mar.21st: Trying to get Little Man on a schedule at night is rather hard. He is very unpredictable.

Mar. 22nd: He fought me going to bed, meaning that I did not make it to sleep until after 11pm.

ANOTHER BREAK!!!

2008-02-22T06:00:00.000-08:00

I'm sure you think a completely understandable one, too! We leave BRIGHT & EARLY tomorrow!

FOOD: Feb. 17-23rd

2008-02-16T21:29:00.000-08:00

Feb. 17th: Started marking off boxes again-but need to go back & re-think today's points.

Feb. 18th: Didn't keep too close track today-did mark off boxes, though.

Feb. 19th: Completely forgot about marking boxes.

MONEY: Feb. 17-23rd

2008-02-16T21:27:00.000-08:00

Feb. 17th: Bought a few things for our trip, & Ny Quil-again-yes I have another cold. But, PTL, it isn't too bad.

Feb. 18th: Didn't buy anything.

Feb. 19th: Boy, did I ever make up for yesterday. TONS of money on trip supplies & baby supplies! I can't even post the number-it scares me!

TIME: Feb. 17-23rd

2008-02-16T21:21:00.000-08:00

Feb. 17th: Lights out at 10:02! Much better than I have been doing. After all the running around to straighten out our Immigration mess, I would stay up LATE, to just have some down time. I saw how quickly & easily I drop back into old habits.

Feb. 18th: 11:30-just trying to start on the packing.

Feb. 19th: 11:30-w/ no good excuse. Ana was up until 9, then I was working on her latch-hook project for her-THEN, finally, sat down to eat myself.

I will back on Sunday!!

2008-02-15T06:03:00.001-08:00

Thanks for the little break!

I just had to get that mess created by Immigration worked out!

There will need to be a small break on this blog

2008-02-06T06:17:00.000-08:00

We are having major issues w/ Immigration on our adoption case in GT, & I don't have time to keep this updated.....

Tune in later!!! & please pray-especially today!

TIME: Jan. 27-Feb. 2

2008-01-28T06:43:00.000-08:00

Jan. 27th: I have been horrible!!!! True confessions: turned off my light at after 1 am!!!!! I always get like this when I have a project going, & truly, when else am I going to get a bunch done on that room?!?!?!?

Jan. 28th: I was up until 12:02! We worked in the bedroom until almost 10 pm, & then I puttered around doing other things that needed doing.

Jan. 29th: I was up until 1am. Was working on the room until 10:30, then Ruth started her very scary croup cough, so I stayed up to make sure she responded to the breathing treatment & the Ibuprophen I gave her. Thank the Lord, she did ok at that point.

Jan. 30th: FINALLY!!! SUCSESS!!! (or at least headed the right direction) 10:07!!!!!

Jan. 31st: Took sister to the airport in Denver. Didn't get home until almost mid-night. In bed 20 min or so later.

Feb. 2nd: On the night of the 1st, it was around 10pm, I think. On the 2nd, it was around 11:30-w/ no real good reason. These are the kinds of things I need to STOP doing to myself.

FOOD: Jan. 27-Feb. 2

2008-01-28T06:42:00.000-08:00

Jan. 27th: Just realized as I sat down here to blog re. today, I never finished writing down everything I ate.

I have been getting plenty of exercise, as the painting is quite a workout!!!!

Jan. 28th: Journalled very loosely. I hardly ate anything until supper & even then didn't eat much. I was SO BUSY on that room. It is looking so good, though!!!

Jan. 29th: Didn't pay much attention today. I'm sick, the girls are sick & I was still working like crazy on the room.

Jan. 30th: SICK, so I just did not have the energy to journal.

Jan. 31st: Still sick-still no energy.

Feb. 2nd: (Feb. 1st-still sick & I forgot) Was SUPER BUSY ALL DAY. Left the house at 9am, & didn't return until 5 pm. Didn't journal my food at all. Had planned on picking up a journal at WW, but my day just couldn't get it squeezed in.

MONEY: Jan. 27-Feb. 2

2008-01-27T06:09:00.000-08:00

Jan. 27th: Bought matching outfits at Gymboree for all the kids. Was thinking towards the US Embassy Visa appointment in Guatemala. But, I got them home, & the dress for Ana is way too short. So, I need to return them. Also, the outfit for Nathaniel doesn't seem dressy enough, in my opinion. $128!!!! Shocked me, as I have NEVER bought anything there unless it is on sale!!! But, I think I can find stuff I'm happier w/ for less.

Jan. 28th: Bought only groceries we needed.

Jan. 29th: Didn't go anywhere.

Jan 30th: Ditto above-well, except I did stop a Walgreens & buy NyQuil, since I have the WORST cold I have had in a long time.

Jan. 31st: Still sick. Bought groceries & a few things for our trip to Guatemala.

Feb. 2: Don't know what happened to the FIRST of FEB.... I just forgot all about any blog at all. Just spent money on a baby shower-most of which church will re-imburse. No-just remembered-spent a bit of money on hair stuff for the girsl & I. Oh, & I did return some of the clothes to Gymboree & got $58 put back on my CC!!!
(I did that on Feb. 1st)

FOOD: Jan. 20-26

2008-01-21T05:45:00.000-08:00

Jan. 20th: Didn't mark off boxes, but I did eat fairly well. The big news is that at the party last night, I stopped eating when I wasn't hungry anymore-& I wasn't even tempted to eat more-depite all the YUMMY food!

Jan. 21st: Used all DPA & 5 WPA

Jan. 22nd: Not sure how I did, but I didn't even use my DPA because I had a terrible stomach ache!

Jan. 23rd: Ate DPA + about 5 WPA.

Jan. 24th: Ate really healthy, but I didn't mark off boxes-I just forgot!!!! Friday is weigh-in.

Jan. 25th: Did not weigh in, as I had to run up to Denver last-minute. But, I know I either stayed the same or lost weight. Started to actually journal. Not just mark off boxes.

Jan. 26th: Wrote everything down....Big step for me!!! Used a bunch of WPA, but accounted for all of them. Also, EARNED a bunch of points working in that bedroom!!!

MONEY: Jan. 20-26

2008-01-21T05:43:00.000-08:00

Jan. 20th: Didn't spend any $-didn't go anywhere!

Jan. 21st: Stayed home the entire day.

Jan. 22nd: Gassed up the van-that's all the $ I spent.

Jan 23rd: Didn't spend any $ except on much-needed groceries.

Jan. 24th: Spent over $200 on the room today, w/ 6 gallons of paint & other supplies.

Jan. 25th: Spent about $20 on the room.

Jan. 26th: Didn't go anywhere. Stayed home & worked on the room!

TIME: Jan. 20-26

2008-01-21T05:38:00.000-08:00

Jan. 20th: I was once again up WAY TOO LATE! But, we had another party/get-together w/ our friends, & it just got later & later at home before I went to bed. I think 11:45. So not happening again!

Jan. 21st: Well, the lights went out at 10pm-late, but working my way back down!

Jan. 22nd: I turned off my light at 9:47! Still working my down.

Jan. 23rd: I was up until 10:30. Had some last minute things that needed attending to, & they couln't be done any other time. True confessions, though-I did stay up another 20 min. or so READING! :-)

Jan. 24th: Went to bed around 11:30. I started the work for painting the girls room yesterday, & w/ two trips to the store for supplies, & two people over to help me, I did not get messes cleaned up until WAY LATE!!

Jan. 25th: It was 11:15!!! Still trying to figure out how to get everything done & work on such a big project as I now have going on!

Jan. 26th: 11:30......I'm pretty sure. PAINTED late!!!!!

FOOD: Jan. 13-19

2008-01-14T05:18:00.001-08:00

Jan. 13th: Had a little trouble when I left a bag of chips on the counter. I just mindlessly eat sometimes! But, I counted it (to the best of my ability) & ended up eating all my DPA & I think 7 WPA.

Jan. 14th: I'm not sure how many points I ended up w/. I got Chinese food while we were out, since our night got very crazy, & ran behind. I did have 9 oints left, though, when I started supper last night. How bad for you is Chinese? I added extra broccoli. Yum!

Jan. 15th: I only ate my DPA. I was hungry at supper, but Ruth needed holding. After supper, I started in on the duvet & I forgot about eating!

Jan. 16th: Ate DPA & 7 WPA

Jan. 17th: Ate DPA & 5 WPA

Jan. 18th: Weighed in, & I was down 1.8!!! I also started over on points, so now I have 24 DPA & 35 WPA. (The WPA can be used at any time during the week).

Jan. 19th: Don't have much idea of my total points for the day, since we went to a little party. I'm going to mark off all my DPA & 10 WPA, though.

MONEY: Jan. 13-19

2008-01-14T05:17:00.000-08:00

Jan. 13th: Had no trouble w/ money-didn't do anything! Just church & home all day.

Jan. 14th: Went to the store w/ no list, but came out w/ just what I was looking for/ needed. I will be returning the duvet cover I bought, though, bec. I was reminded of an easy way to MAKE one!! Thanks, Rachel!

Jan. 15th: Again, no list, but in & out of every store w/ ONLY what I wanted!

Jan. 16th: same as yesterday.

Jan. 17th: spent a long time looking for a new phone in different stores yesterday, but never found one.

Jan. 18th: Got the phone, which, thank goodness, works right & the caller ID FINALLY works as well! Also, went into Wal-Mart (twice) w/ out a list, but both times cam out w/ only necesities!

Jan. 19th: Went in to King Soopers & came out w/ only what I intended to buy, but did not make a list.

TIME: Jan. 13-19

2008-01-14T05:16:00.000-08:00

Jan. 13th: Turned out lights at 9:47. Still haven't met my goal. I think I need to start thinking toward this goal at like 5pm! If I remember tonight, I'll try that & see how that goes.

Jan. 14th: I *think* it was around 9:35. A couple of miss-haps in a few different stores put me behind the rest of the night.

Jan. 15th: 10:30pm!!! I was sewing a new duvet from sheets last night. While I was done w/ everything by 9:25 or so, the Lord still persisted in working on my heart.....as a result, I picked up the book, "Stream in the Dessert," & didn't stop reading/thinking/praying until 10:30.

Jan. 16th: 9:48

Jan. 17th: 9:55 I stayed up.....as I had a hard time falling asleep due to our good news yesterday. (see my other blog ) I just kept thinking of things that needed doing before bed. Things I should have done hours before, but I was too flaky!!!!

Jan 18th: 10:45!!!! I got excited about ironing new pillow shams for my bed-which was a much bigger project than I bargined for-cause then I HAD to put them on, if you know what I mean!

YIKES!!! To bed tonight!

Over all, thought, I am doing so much better! I'm glad, because this idea seems to be working!

Jan. 19th: 10:45 again, but we have friends in from out of town, who we got together w/.

FOOD: Jan. 7-12

2008-01-07T18:22:00.001-08:00

Jan. 7th: Used all my DPA + 2 exercise points. Went over by about 4 points, though, in Hershey's Kisses (worth about one point each)

Jan. 8th: Used all my DPA. It was a hard day, as it was the last day Dave was home until at least 6 weeks from now. I probably actually went over-I was too tired/sad to care. Wed. should go better.

Jan. 9th: I am sure I used all my DPA allowance yesterday, but I was wiped out. Concentration was hard-I was just so sleepy. Also, a friend took me out for lunch last minute, which was very thoughtful of her since Dave left on his trip. Today will be better, though.

Jan. 10th: Used all my DPA. Went to bed wanting "more," but having nothing really to eat.....so just went to bed.

Jan. 11th: Weighed in-which means it was the end on one week on WW & on to a new week. I used all my DPA & two of my new WPA. I was not happy w/ the scale, (165 lbs) but I did get a new starting place. Also, I finally broke down & went to the meeting where the I love the leader, but she is having a hard time w/ the noise Ruthie makes. It was good.....I didn't stay for the meeting, but I did say "hi" to her. Got me over that hurdle.

Jan. 12th: Used all my DPA (which by the way, you are supposed to do) & 4 WPA.

MONEY: Jan. 7-12

2008-01-07T18:21:00.001-08:00

Jan. 7th: Yeah, Kim!!! Went to the store WITH A LIST, & stuck to it-except for bannanas!! The cool thing was, I remembered/took time to make a list, even though it was a very short one.

Jan. 8th: Another day of following the list.

Jan. 9th: Did not have a list, but went to Circut City & picked up just what DH wanted me to get for us. Funny thing was-even all the new stuff in that store (which I'm not really excited about) was tempting to look at just cause it's new. Have to think that one through a bit more. that may be part of my issue w/ lack of discipline here. NEW is better for some reason.

Jan. 10th: Went into the store w/ out a list. But.....stopped right at the front of the store & made one. Also, bought a few things not on the list, but I knew they were on lists at home.

Jan. 11: Went to the store w/ specific ideas re. some re-decorating I wanted to do & a list. I got exactly what I needed & left the stores! Feels so good!

Jan 12th: Another day of following my list. :-)

TIME: Jan. 7-12

2008-01-07T18:20:00.001-08:00

Jan. 7th: Stayed up late w/ Dave watching a movie. But, we needed this TIME, as he is leaving tomorrow for 6 weeks. Went to bed at 11:30.

Jan. 8th: Stayed up until 12:30 am!!! Yikes!! But, I was trying to get Dave ready to leave today. Now that he's gone , we can get back to "normal," whatever that is!

Jan. 9th: I was up until 11:01 last night. WAY too late, but was trying to process some things a dear friend pointed out to me re. my PURPOSE in life. Tonight, I will be in bed on time-& I'm pretty excited about seeing the new perspective this will give me on my life. More to follow on my family blog.

Jan. 10th: Was up until 9:51. Forgot to clean my kitchen before I sat down at the computer. Boy, am I learning things like-next time I'll clean up right after supper-then do any relaxing before bed.

Jan. 11th: It was 10:02 last night. I was so excited about re-doing the mantle over my fire-place, that I just kept working. But.....I did stop when the temptation to re-organize the kids movies set it. I KNEW I would not be to bed before 11 that way. So, I am learning to pay attention to passing time better. Also, in the past, when Dave has been gone, I have not gone to bed until at least mid-night.

Jan. 12th: Turned out lights at 9:55-late again. BUT......I did get 7 1/2 hours of sleep-which before now, was unheard of while Dave is gone!

FOOD: Jan. 1-6th

2008-01-01T07:28:00.001-08:00

Dec. 31st: I did NOT keep track of yesterday, & it's a good thing, too! But, man was the food at our little get-together yummy! How do you handle situations like a party?

Jan. 1st: Used all 24 of my Daily Points Allowance & 6 of my Weekly Points Allowance. Ate way too much suger, though. I'll do better on the 2nd.

Jan. 2nd: Used all of my 24 DPA & AMAMZINGLY, used NONE of my WPA.

Jan. 3rd: Again, used all of my DPA & none of my WPA.

Jan. 4th: Wow, did I ever over-do it yesterday! 53 points!!! How did that happen????? I have discovered that I do struggle w/ emotional eating.

Confusing news from Guatemala.

Finding out Dave is leaving earlier than we thought he was for at least 6 weeks.
Other highly emotional issues w/ kids & family & I just wanted to eat chocolate!

I NEVER struggle w/ emotional eating-more mindless eating. But, not yesterday.

That is almost ALL my WPA in one day. Oh, Father, help me!

Jan. 5th: Just ate my DPA today.

Jan. 6th: Went into my WPA & ate the rest of them today-FOR THE REST OF THE WEEK!!!
(I guess I am a STRESS eater-literally makes me hungry! The things I am learning about myself!)

MONEY: Jan. 1-6th

2008-01-01T07:25:00.000-08:00

Dec 31st: Went to the store w/ a LIST & stuck to it! (Even wrote down something in the store to buy another time)

Jan. 1st: Well, it was a good day to not spend $! Didn't leave the house at all, so didn't spend any $! (Now, I realize I can spend it on the Internet as well, but as I rarely do it, I think I'm safe!)

Jan. 2nd: Accidently went into the store w/ out a list. Boy, it is hard to re-train myself!! But, I left the store w/ only milk, bannanas & diapers. As I looked back on my goal for this area of my life, I didn't feel quite as bad about forgetting to make a list. The very idea that I had to report back to you blog readers, kept me from getting things I truely did not need. SO....I thought it was ok, since my intent was to have the liberty in the store to remember things we DO REALLY NEED!

How can I learn the difference? When is it ok to adjust the list? How do you think these things through when you are at the store? I really could use some tips!

TIA!

Jan. 3rd: Went to the store AGAIN w/ out a list, but this time it was to get something REALLY specific for Ana since Dave & her are going SKIING for her first time next week. Got in & out of the store w/ just what I needed-nothing more.

Jan. 4th: I am so flaky. Once again, I went to the store w/ no list. This time, though, I did not even realise it until I was home. I didn't think it would be THIS hard. I did not know until I sat down to write this morning how much emotions can effect every area of your life.

Also, I discovered that when I go to the store completely stressed out, & w/ out a list, it is VERY hard for me to think about what I need, & I just wander the store aimlessly!

Jan. 5th: Stayed home most of the day. Did get my nails done-which is no small thing-$-wise, but scheduled & planned for in the budget!

Jan. 6th: Didn't leave the house again-so no trouble w/ money.

TIME: Jan. 1-6th

2008-01-01T07:21:00.000-08:00

Dec. 31st: 1:25am (really, went to bed Jan. 1)

Jan. 1st: 9:50 pm. First night trying this & I hit the sack late!!! Why? Well, I have my other blog I was trying to update from New Year's Eve & all, & I KNEW it was getting too late & I should get off the computer, but I thought if I really hurried through my bedtime routine, I would be ok.

However, a small conversation w/ Dave, & a needy & awake baby put me behind even more.

I don't feel bad about those two things, but I learned that I need to be headed to bed about 15 min., before I want to turn out the lights!

I'll be doing that tonight.

Jan. 2nd: Well, I did not start to bed as early as I wanted to. If only Blogging wasn't so fun!!!
But, I am headed in the right direction, as I hit the lights at 9:41pm on my cell phone clock!

I guess I am headed in the right direction, right?

ETA: the other thing is, I'm having a hard time falling asleep.....

Jan. 3rd: Confessions: staying up to watch the KU Bowl Game. Finally hit the sac about 11. After DH fixed the camera on my camera phone-which I use as an alarm clock.

Jan. 4th: I did not get to bed until after 1 am!!!! But, I had a good reason for that. My cousin was in Denver for a few days, so I went up there, picked her up, brought her home & spent the afternoon w/ her. I left my house at 9:45 pm, & drove 2 & a half hours round-trip to take her back up to Denver. She was such an encouragement to me, though, & yesterday, I needed it.

Not doing good at all on my goals, but I guess life happens....

Don't know how it will go tonight either, since Dave & Ana are skiing today. It's Ana's first time, so when they get back, I know I'll want to hear all about it, thus perhaps making a very late night.

Jan. 5th: In bed at 9:41pm

Jan. 6th: Having a hard time w/ falling asleep. No flames, here people-but the past few nights, I have taken NyQuil-due to congestion. But, I could just take a decongestant. However, w/ the adoption stress, Dave leaving for 6 weeks etc........I can't fall asleep! I just lay in bed & think.....

I DID make it to bed by 9:38 pm, though, so I keep moving in the right direction! Yeah, me!!!!

My Idea for this Blog

2007-12-31T07:49:00.000-08:00

To set goals for myself that others can see & encourage me along the way. There are three resources the Lord has given me I am concentrating on in 2008-

TIME, MONEY & FOOD

For January of 2008, these are the goals I have set:

1. With my time, I want to have “lights out” for myself between 8:30 & 9:30 every night.
2. With my money, I will NOT go to the store with out a list. I will stick to it EXACTLY unless I know I forgot something we need. (ie Toilet Paper, Toiletries, or Cleaning Supplies, Milk etc.)
3. With my food, I will mark off boxes on the WW program.

In each of these areas, every morning, I will record my progress from the previous day.

Also, in each of these areas, there needs to be some allowances for LIFE & I am aware of that. But I know what a reasonable excuse is. So do you. If you see me trying to make UNREASONABLE excuses, will you please call me on them?

Thank-you to each & every one of you who will support me in this endeavor!