I consider myself a spiritual person. I believe that God has a plan for my life and that all of the experiences over the past 14 years are to make me into the person I'm intended to be. This move, however, has been by the far the most rewarding and frustrating. I'm ready already to find out what the plan is! Not many people take the time to make sense of the decisions you make, the people you meet, or where you happen to lay your head. That's all I've done in seven moves over the 14 years I've been married to "the military."
I always knew Indiana was not the place I wanted to spend my life. So fortunately I met my husband and he quickly proceeded to move me 14 hours away to Fayetteville, NC home of Ft. Bragg. What a change for a small town girl from Indiana! I remember very clearly walking on post for the first time and just staring, without trying to be obvious, at all of the people in uniform. I'd never seen so much camo in my life! Of course over time I grew accustomed to living in a military town and actually grew to enjoy the benefits of living close to post: commissary (grocery), PX (Walmart), and all the free activities.
Ft. Bragg turned out to be the place where KC and I learned to be a married couple. That may sound odd to say but many newlyweds never have that chance. We were far away from family and friends and therefore we had nowhere to run if something went awry. We learned to depend on each other, communicate openly and honestly, and always place the other's need first. Ft. Bragg is also the place we learned to be parents. We had Avery and all of our family was hundreds of miles away. We learned to share the parenting responsibility. We didn't leave Avery with a sitter until she was nearly two. That's not exclusively because we were overprotective; we didn't know anyone well enough. I'm not saying any of this was easy; it most definitely wasn't. We were in debt to our eyeballs and barely making ends meet. We learned to be frugal, to prioritize, and to spend time together without spending money.
Knoxville, TN is the place we learned to just be still and let God do his thing. This is where we found our wonderful church and second family. Knoxville is the place where my kidney disease ultimately acquired a name and where I was given a second chance at life thanks to my unbelievable husband! Now don't get me wrong, I wouldn't want to live there again but I truly miss my "family" and the connections we made. It's hard as a military spouse to constantly change. Friends, jobs, doctors, hairdressers the list is endless. This is the first place I was willing to open myself to friendship other than those I'd left in Indiana. I finally learned that making new friends didn't mean forgetting my oldest ones. Avery made one of her dearest "boyfriends" and plans are in the works for an arranged wedding:) Whenever we go to Knoxville it's like going home.
Living in Kentucky was quite an experience and I miss it everyday. Kentucky taught me what it meant to be a mommy, a wife, and a woman without feeling guilty that they weren't intertwined. I was able to take time for myself and hang out with my awesome group of girls and do things for myself. I'd forgotten over the past 10 years to take time for me and it was refreshing and beneficial for my entire family. We lived in a great neighborhood, the kind you see in sappy movies, with great neighbors. I learned to relax, enjoy the moment, and the people who were in my life. I got to experience one of my secret wishes which was hosting a house full of kids! It sounds corny but I always wanted to be "THAT" mom: open door policy, snacks on the counter, and doors slamming. I learned that being only three hours from your family was a perfect distance and was able to enjoy many events I'd missed out on previously. As a family we learned that saving has its benefits as we were able to take trips to Colorado and Disney.
Now here I sit in Vancouver, WA and I can't help but wonder what I'm supposed to learn. What is the plan for this place? I already know it's for me to become healthy and enjoy the benefits of fitness. I believe that this place is supposed to make us appreciate each other and the beauty around us. There is no way someone can come here and not awe at the natural beauty. I, however, can't help but feel a bit lost. I'm unemployed and having a difficult time even getting an interview. I don't know who I'm supposed to be or what I'm supposed to do if I'm not working. So I guess for now I'll just do what I've been doing: exercising, errands, cooking, cleaning, parenting, and spousing. I know there is a personal lesson to learn I just may not be ready to learn it.
Monday, September 24, 2012
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Surf's Up!
This past weekend we splurged and took surfing lessons as a family. Whew! I had no idea how physically demanding this sport could be. Needless to say, I am not your "hang loose" surfer girl. My daughter, however, has some potential:)
First of all, if you've never worn a wet suit that is an experience in itself. I imagine it's how food feels when being shrink wrapped. It took my husband and me both pulling and tugging to get the sucker on. Once on I had to commence to put on gloves, booties, and a hood: the only part of the getup that didn't constrict my body to a size 4. This effort was merely at the surf shop to "fit" my suit. I then had to struggle to get out of the suit. Peeling it off, with the help of Avery, proved to be much easier. Once at the beach the process began again this time without the privacy of a dressing room. Avery and I opted to change next to the car; Avery wearing a black bikini and myself in leopard panties and a black sports bra! I'm sure I got lots of stares but who cares, let 'em look;)
Once I was sealed in my suit we had to lug our boards to the beach. We had an educational lesson from our instructor on the Recipe for the Perfect Wave. Quite interesting information. After that wrapped up we practiced skills on the board. I was killing it; paddling quick to get ahead of the wave, sitting in my "whoa Nelly" position, covering my head after falling, and popping up into my surfer girl stance. I was confident about my ability to transfer my skills to the water, so we picked up our boards and headed to the ocean!
Let me begin by saying that I have been in the ocean before. I've played in the surf and been hammered by waves. None of my previous experience prepared me for tackling the surf and waves while trying to control a surf board. Luckily the board was attached to my leg so I didn't have to chase it. Anyway, I paddled out the instructor, "up dogged" over some waves, and assumed the "whoa Nelly" position. I'll explain: sit toward the back of your board, hang on to the side (rails), and ride out the waves. It's a way to stay out in the water while waiting to catch the perfect wave.
Well, the first wave hit and I flipped sideways and ended up completely under the water. Little did I know this was a precursor of what was to come. A good wave came and my instructor had me assume the take off position. I paddled ahead of the wave, felt the wave take my board into a glide and knew it was time to pop up. Unfortunately my pop up ended up being a fall off the side. I continued to try and "catch" a wave but ended up prematurely in the water each time. I managed to stay on my board for approximately .7 seconds which I consider a success. In comparison to Avery's successfully riding two separate waves my effort was pitiful. I don't know what it is about my daughter, be it her youth, her athleticism, or her fearlessness, it seems that she's good at whatever endeavor she tries. She made her daddy and I look like hack tennis players. I spent more time off my board than on it. I pretty sure my sinuses are clear for the next month.
After two hours of playing in the water and attempting to surf our lesson was over. I was told taking off the wet suit once it served its purpose would be more difficult than getting into it but I had my doubts. I am a believer! That sucker was attached to my skin like a stuck jar lid. We peeled off our suits, showered, dressed, and bit adieu to the beach.
I can honestly say that I will probably never surf again. I'm glad I had to opportunity to try and will always cherish the memory of surfing with my husband and daughter. There's nothing quite like trying new things as a family. If you want to find a way to bring something exciting in your weekend and bring your family closer try something new together. Laughing, failing, cheering each other on, and succeeding are priceless and much more valuable than things.
First of all, if you've never worn a wet suit that is an experience in itself. I imagine it's how food feels when being shrink wrapped. It took my husband and me both pulling and tugging to get the sucker on. Once on I had to commence to put on gloves, booties, and a hood: the only part of the getup that didn't constrict my body to a size 4. This effort was merely at the surf shop to "fit" my suit. I then had to struggle to get out of the suit. Peeling it off, with the help of Avery, proved to be much easier. Once at the beach the process began again this time without the privacy of a dressing room. Avery and I opted to change next to the car; Avery wearing a black bikini and myself in leopard panties and a black sports bra! I'm sure I got lots of stares but who cares, let 'em look;)
Once I was sealed in my suit we had to lug our boards to the beach. We had an educational lesson from our instructor on the Recipe for the Perfect Wave. Quite interesting information. After that wrapped up we practiced skills on the board. I was killing it; paddling quick to get ahead of the wave, sitting in my "whoa Nelly" position, covering my head after falling, and popping up into my surfer girl stance. I was confident about my ability to transfer my skills to the water, so we picked up our boards and headed to the ocean!
Let me begin by saying that I have been in the ocean before. I've played in the surf and been hammered by waves. None of my previous experience prepared me for tackling the surf and waves while trying to control a surf board. Luckily the board was attached to my leg so I didn't have to chase it. Anyway, I paddled out the instructor, "up dogged" over some waves, and assumed the "whoa Nelly" position. I'll explain: sit toward the back of your board, hang on to the side (rails), and ride out the waves. It's a way to stay out in the water while waiting to catch the perfect wave.
Well, the first wave hit and I flipped sideways and ended up completely under the water. Little did I know this was a precursor of what was to come. A good wave came and my instructor had me assume the take off position. I paddled ahead of the wave, felt the wave take my board into a glide and knew it was time to pop up. Unfortunately my pop up ended up being a fall off the side. I continued to try and "catch" a wave but ended up prematurely in the water each time. I managed to stay on my board for approximately .7 seconds which I consider a success. In comparison to Avery's successfully riding two separate waves my effort was pitiful. I don't know what it is about my daughter, be it her youth, her athleticism, or her fearlessness, it seems that she's good at whatever endeavor she tries. She made her daddy and I look like hack tennis players. I spent more time off my board than on it. I pretty sure my sinuses are clear for the next month.
I can honestly say that I will probably never surf again. I'm glad I had to opportunity to try and will always cherish the memory of surfing with my husband and daughter. There's nothing quite like trying new things as a family. If you want to find a way to bring something exciting in your weekend and bring your family closer try something new together. Laughing, failing, cheering each other on, and succeeding are priceless and much more valuable than things.
Friday, August 24, 2012
The Power of Positive
You know the old saying "The power of positive thinking." I have found this to be incredibly true on my journey to become healthy. I have also chosen to live by the verse "This is the the day that the Lord has made. I will rejoice and be glad in it." Combining these two into my philosophy for living has given me a new vigor for living.
As I'm not working yet I begin every day with some form of physical activity. I've recently become quite attached to a Jillian Michael's yoga video. I love yoga because it is low impact with high intensity. I sweat as much doing this as I do running. I have found the important thing with exercise is that 1) I must enjoy what I'm doing and 2) I don't put pressure on myself to be a badass. I understand my limits and try to surprise myself with each work out. For example, Monday I exercised for 45 minutes and went 4.48 miles. Of that distance I ran approximately 2.5 miles! That's pretty kick ass for me! I was so proud of myself. It's important to be happy with your progress and celebrate your accomplishments no matter how small.
Too many times we as women forget to celebrate what makes us fantastic. We can carry another human in our bodies, we have kicking curves worthy of song, and we can bring a man to his knees with a simple look. Women play so many different roles that few people realize how difficult it can be to wear so many hats. Think about the woman who works and has a family; it's not easy, I do it. So why are we so tough on ourselves? When did it become ok to dis ourselves and try and live up to an unrealistic ideal? Since when did a size 0 become the norm?
I for one am standing up against these contrived Hollywood images of "perfection." Perfection is a myth...unattainable and unrealistic. I refuse to believe that I'm not beautiful or sexy just because I'm not a size 4. I'm a size 12. I'm not unhealthy or disgusting to look at or unhappy with myself. It's time for American women to take pride in themselves and work hard to feel good about themselves. Sweat every day whether it's on a walk, in the gym, in your living room, or in your bedroom! It's incredible what sweating and being active does for your confidence. Eat the foods you love but eat them in moderation. Don't starve yourself. Food is energy and meant to be enjoyed. Lastly, look at yourself in the mirror and celebrate your success. Don't measure yourself on a scale...numbers mean nothing but fit means everything.
Try this beginning tomorrow: Say one positive thing about yourself every day and that will turn into something phenomenal. You'll find confidence you didn't know you had and change your outlook on your life. It's done wonders for me! I'm sexy and I know it:)
As I'm not working yet I begin every day with some form of physical activity. I've recently become quite attached to a Jillian Michael's yoga video. I love yoga because it is low impact with high intensity. I sweat as much doing this as I do running. I have found the important thing with exercise is that 1) I must enjoy what I'm doing and 2) I don't put pressure on myself to be a badass. I understand my limits and try to surprise myself with each work out. For example, Monday I exercised for 45 minutes and went 4.48 miles. Of that distance I ran approximately 2.5 miles! That's pretty kick ass for me! I was so proud of myself. It's important to be happy with your progress and celebrate your accomplishments no matter how small.
Too many times we as women forget to celebrate what makes us fantastic. We can carry another human in our bodies, we have kicking curves worthy of song, and we can bring a man to his knees with a simple look. Women play so many different roles that few people realize how difficult it can be to wear so many hats. Think about the woman who works and has a family; it's not easy, I do it. So why are we so tough on ourselves? When did it become ok to dis ourselves and try and live up to an unrealistic ideal? Since when did a size 0 become the norm?
I for one am standing up against these contrived Hollywood images of "perfection." Perfection is a myth...unattainable and unrealistic. I refuse to believe that I'm not beautiful or sexy just because I'm not a size 4. I'm a size 12. I'm not unhealthy or disgusting to look at or unhappy with myself. It's time for American women to take pride in themselves and work hard to feel good about themselves. Sweat every day whether it's on a walk, in the gym, in your living room, or in your bedroom! It's incredible what sweating and being active does for your confidence. Eat the foods you love but eat them in moderation. Don't starve yourself. Food is energy and meant to be enjoyed. Lastly, look at yourself in the mirror and celebrate your success. Don't measure yourself on a scale...numbers mean nothing but fit means everything.
Try this beginning tomorrow: Say one positive thing about yourself every day and that will turn into something phenomenal. You'll find confidence you didn't know you had and change your outlook on your life. It's done wonders for me! I'm sexy and I know it:)
Favorite
Admittedly I toss this word around frequently. I have favorite shoes, a favorite flavor of frozen yogurt, and favorite work out pants. It drives my husband crazy that I have numerous favorites or "loves" especially when it comes to music. Music is one of those things that I find hard to nail down just one song as my favorite. I mean come on, that would be like choosing your favorite jewelry or color of nail polish. Mood dictates favorite and for that reason I have concocted the follow list of my favorites songs.
1. Favorite Zumba song: "Apple Bottom Jeans" by T-Pain because I like the part of the dance where I get to smack my booty!
2. Favorite Feel Good Song: "Safety Dance" by Men Without Hats because it is a ridiculous song with a great beat and it makes me smile. I also remember the video and think the actual safety dance is hysterical!
3. Favorite Song for harmonizing with a friend: "Suite Judy Blue Eyes" by Crosby Stills Nash and Young. Are you kidding me? Just listen to it!!! Kelle Gibbs and two empty bottle of wine...nothing better:)
4. Favorite best friend song: "Me and Bobby McGee" by Janis Joplin. My bestie Audrey and I would go see a band (Real Eyes) and they did an amazing cover of this song! Takes me right back to my 20's in the Bluebird when I hear this one.
5. Favorite song to turn loud and sing at the top of your lungs while in your car: "Kryptonite" by 3 Doors Down. I love the beat to this song and the fact that it's fast. And who doesn't love Superman?
6. Favorite song to sing when playing Sing Star: "Just Like a Pill" by Pink. It's just a kick ass song and I love to try and mimic her energy.
7. Favorite song I'm embarrassed to admit I love: "Islands in the Stream" by Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton. My cousins and I used to sing this all the time when we were kids. I can remember giving "concerts" for our parents. Admit it...it's a great song!
8. Favorite slow song: "Sea of Love" by Robert Plant and the Honeydrippers. My hubby and I danced to this at our wedding. It's not too emotional/sappy with great lyrics. The video is awful but that doesn't count.
9. Favorite song which could be loosely based on a poem: "Just Like Heaven" by The Cure. First of all this is an amazing song. I've loved it since I first heard it in high school. Second of all, I can't prove this, but I believe this song to be based on Edgar Allen Poe's poem "Annabel Lee." The lyrics and the poem are strikingly similar. "In this kingdom by the sea...killing and chilling my Annabel Lee...In her tomb by the sounding sea." Quite similar to the heroine of the song? I don't know Robert Smith...am I right?
10. Favorite song to dance to when I play Just Dance 3: "Hit me Baby One More Time" by Brittany Spears. If you haven't played this version of JD then you need to. There are few things as fun in this world than dancing to that song with three of your best buddies! Right Shauna, Leslie, and Katherine?!
11. Favorite song that reminds me of my brother Jason: "Runnin' Down a Dream" by Tom Petty. I came home one night to find my brother had thrown a party. Anyway, when the guitar part plays "Yeah runnin' down a dream (da na na na na na) that never would come to me (da na na na na na)" Jas was playing the guitar on his thigh with such enthusiasm it's ingrained in my memory forever!
I could probably continue on but don't want to cause boredom. I've listed enough to get my point across. I'm not the same person I was in my 20's or my 30's but that doesn't mean those memories still aren't precious. I love that I can hear a song and go back to a place I haven't visited in a while or think of someone I haven't thought of recently. I'm not sure about some of the tunes playing today which is why most of mine are from the 80's...I was a Junior in college before I realized "Little Red Corvette" wasn't about a car! Anyway, I love music and will continue to throw around the word favorite. It's about having a catalogue of memories and experiences. Songs are my own little time warp!
1. Favorite Zumba song: "Apple Bottom Jeans" by T-Pain because I like the part of the dance where I get to smack my booty!
2. Favorite Feel Good Song: "Safety Dance" by Men Without Hats because it is a ridiculous song with a great beat and it makes me smile. I also remember the video and think the actual safety dance is hysterical!
3. Favorite Song for harmonizing with a friend: "Suite Judy Blue Eyes" by Crosby Stills Nash and Young. Are you kidding me? Just listen to it!!! Kelle Gibbs and two empty bottle of wine...nothing better:)
4. Favorite best friend song: "Me and Bobby McGee" by Janis Joplin. My bestie Audrey and I would go see a band (Real Eyes) and they did an amazing cover of this song! Takes me right back to my 20's in the Bluebird when I hear this one.
5. Favorite song to turn loud and sing at the top of your lungs while in your car: "Kryptonite" by 3 Doors Down. I love the beat to this song and the fact that it's fast. And who doesn't love Superman?
6. Favorite song to sing when playing Sing Star: "Just Like a Pill" by Pink. It's just a kick ass song and I love to try and mimic her energy.
7. Favorite song I'm embarrassed to admit I love: "Islands in the Stream" by Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton. My cousins and I used to sing this all the time when we were kids. I can remember giving "concerts" for our parents. Admit it...it's a great song!
8. Favorite slow song: "Sea of Love" by Robert Plant and the Honeydrippers. My hubby and I danced to this at our wedding. It's not too emotional/sappy with great lyrics. The video is awful but that doesn't count.
9. Favorite song which could be loosely based on a poem: "Just Like Heaven" by The Cure. First of all this is an amazing song. I've loved it since I first heard it in high school. Second of all, I can't prove this, but I believe this song to be based on Edgar Allen Poe's poem "Annabel Lee." The lyrics and the poem are strikingly similar. "In this kingdom by the sea...killing and chilling my Annabel Lee...In her tomb by the sounding sea." Quite similar to the heroine of the song? I don't know Robert Smith...am I right?
10. Favorite song to dance to when I play Just Dance 3: "Hit me Baby One More Time" by Brittany Spears. If you haven't played this version of JD then you need to. There are few things as fun in this world than dancing to that song with three of your best buddies! Right Shauna, Leslie, and Katherine?!
11. Favorite song that reminds me of my brother Jason: "Runnin' Down a Dream" by Tom Petty. I came home one night to find my brother had thrown a party. Anyway, when the guitar part plays "Yeah runnin' down a dream (da na na na na na) that never would come to me (da na na na na na)" Jas was playing the guitar on his thigh with such enthusiasm it's ingrained in my memory forever!
I could probably continue on but don't want to cause boredom. I've listed enough to get my point across. I'm not the same person I was in my 20's or my 30's but that doesn't mean those memories still aren't precious. I love that I can hear a song and go back to a place I haven't visited in a while or think of someone I haven't thought of recently. I'm not sure about some of the tunes playing today which is why most of mine are from the 80's...I was a Junior in college before I realized "Little Red Corvette" wasn't about a car! Anyway, I love music and will continue to throw around the word favorite. It's about having a catalogue of memories and experiences. Songs are my own little time warp!
Monday, August 20, 2012
When I Grow Up...
Beginning in elementary school, kids all over the world begin deciding what they want to be when they grow up. It's fun to play dress up when you're a kid and "pretend." My brother and I used to pretend we were business people and walk around with a "briefcase" and we'd play school on the last day of school. As I sit on the verge of 40 I wonder why we have to choose just one job. Wouldn't we all be much happier if we got to try different careers every so often? I believe in one true love but I don't necessarily believe in one perfect job.
I was one of those kids who never knew what she wanted to be when I got older. Even as I prepared for college and thought about a future career I couldn't decide. I knew what I liked to do and was good at but could I make that into a career? I knew I wanted to major in English but what to do with a degree in English? Law school? Education? Graduate school? So, I did what any moderately motivated college student would do...I went the path of least resistance: Education. I was too burned out after four years of studying and partying to continue on with grad school, so on May 5, 1996 I received my degree in English Education.
I find myself in an awkward and unfamiliar situation: not being an English teacher for the 2012-2013 school year. The thing is I don't find myself all that sad about it. I'm excited about the prospect of starting a job that doesn't have to do with punctuation, children, bells, grading papers, parents, I could go on. The only issue seems to be what do I want to do? I made a list that included what I don't want to do but that hasn't exactly helped me narrow it down to a job. I feel like I'm back Sophomore year in college when I had to declare a major....FREAKED OUT! Luckily I have a husband who always has a plan and who is supportive of any decision I make. So I've come up with a plan.
Fitness. I've been looking to get my foot in the door at a gym so I can work toward becoming a fitness instructor. My hook is that I don't look like your average fitness guru: I'm 5'1", 169 lbs. I work out everyday and love it! I figure I can share that enthusiasm and be a motivation for other women who, like me, feel insecure about their bodies. I want to share my newfound excitement for being fit and how it has helped my self-esteem and self-confidence. I know I have a job as a substitue teacher so I can make money while I work toward my next job. Maybe figuring out what you want to be when you grow up should be a wish list instead.
I was one of those kids who never knew what she wanted to be when I got older. Even as I prepared for college and thought about a future career I couldn't decide. I knew what I liked to do and was good at but could I make that into a career? I knew I wanted to major in English but what to do with a degree in English? Law school? Education? Graduate school? So, I did what any moderately motivated college student would do...I went the path of least resistance: Education. I was too burned out after four years of studying and partying to continue on with grad school, so on May 5, 1996 I received my degree in English Education.
I find myself in an awkward and unfamiliar situation: not being an English teacher for the 2012-2013 school year. The thing is I don't find myself all that sad about it. I'm excited about the prospect of starting a job that doesn't have to do with punctuation, children, bells, grading papers, parents, I could go on. The only issue seems to be what do I want to do? I made a list that included what I don't want to do but that hasn't exactly helped me narrow it down to a job. I feel like I'm back Sophomore year in college when I had to declare a major....FREAKED OUT! Luckily I have a husband who always has a plan and who is supportive of any decision I make. So I've come up with a plan.
Fitness. I've been looking to get my foot in the door at a gym so I can work toward becoming a fitness instructor. My hook is that I don't look like your average fitness guru: I'm 5'1", 169 lbs. I work out everyday and love it! I figure I can share that enthusiasm and be a motivation for other women who, like me, feel insecure about their bodies. I want to share my newfound excitement for being fit and how it has helped my self-esteem and self-confidence. I know I have a job as a substitue teacher so I can make money while I work toward my next job. Maybe figuring out what you want to be when you grow up should be a wish list instead.
Thursday, August 16, 2012
A Change to Tradition
I used to dread those words as it also meant a return to the classroom and an end the careless days of summer, long nights in the cul-de-sac, and sleeping in. This year, however, has been quite the change at Casa de Honaker. For the first time in 14 years I will not be returning to a classroom; I live in a condo near a park instead of a cul-de-sac, and it's August and Avery is still home. Schools in this area start after Labor Day which means we have three more weeks of fun, sleeping late, and living a life of leisure. Today we embarked on the yearly tradition of back to school shopping for clothes. I normally dread this day as it means big bucks and a potential for contentious attitude from my near teen daughter. This day proved to be quite a refreshing break from the expected.
I remember the days of back to school shopping with my mom and Jason. We had a tradition. Every year we would head out early, relatively for those of you who know my mom:), to Indianapolis where we would lunch at Benihana and shop at Castleton Mall until we literally couldn't stand. There is no denying that Jason and I were much spoiled as my mother is, and probably always will be, a shopaholic! I don't recall her ever saying "no" to many of our requests no matter how ridiculous. I hate to guess the financial damage at the end of the day! At the time our yearly back to school shopping day was an expected tradition and I know I never truly appreciated that time until it ended. I realize now it wasn't just a day to buy, buy, buy but a way for us to spend time together as a family. It was always just the three of us on those trips, and it's a tradition I've carried on with Avery.
Our back to school shopping day has taken on a decidedly different approach. I enjoy spending money on my daughter but I also want her to realize the value of a dollar. A very wise friend of mine clued me in to the method she used for teaching her teenage daughter just that lesson. Rather than me pulling out the debit card for every purchase I give Avery all the cash I would spend on clothing during our trip. I've found that this way she's beginning to understand how much clothing costs and that she has to decide what she really wants. For example, last school year she was convinced she wanted a pair of Sperrys. The cost was $75! After much deep thought and math she didn't buy the shoes because she wouldn't have much money left; she'd only be able to buy a few items of clothes. Lesson learned. (On that same note she came back from Spring Break at Nana's with two pair of Sperrys; I guess that's what Nana's are for!) She also has discovered shopping at Plato's Closet (a consignment store). She has no interest, at this point, in name brands is just happy to find clothes and create outfits. I truly hope her attitude doesn't change. She's going to be the new kid in the halls and wants to make a good first impression. Thanks to Plato's Closet and her savvy consumer skills she'll be able to do just that.
Final total on today's shopping trip: Plato's Closet $93.22 (2 pair of jeans, 2 skirts, a jean jacket, a sweater, tank top, and a belt), lunch at Subway...$15.18. Not too bad!
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Where Experience Means Nothing
Moving to the Pacific Northwest has really been a blessing for my family and for me personally. I've been exercising everyday, eating healthier, and have gained confidence I'd forgotten I had. This, however, is not a discussion of those wonderful things. This is a rantings of a frustrated almost 40 year old unemployed for the first time in 14 years woman.
As many of you know I'm unemployed. My last check from HCS will appear in the account at the end of the month and after that....nada! I've been searching for teaching positions since before we moved and have continued to do so since we moved. I have taught for 13 years but it seems as though that means nothing to the state of Washington. I get that systems aren't hiring; I'll sub. The part of the process that frustrates me is that 1) I must retake the math portion of the PRAXIS because I missed Washington's standards by TWO points and 2) I have to take an English Language Arts test to become certified to teach English. I've been an English teacher for 13 YEARS for crap's sake!!!! Really, my experience, qualification, and history mean nothing?! Is it like this in other professions?
Anyone who's been licensed in any profession knows that there is always a cost involved. Well, this one has been the most expensive. Keep in mind I've taught in North Carolina, Tennessee, and Kentucky and still hold licenses in TN and KY. In order for me to attain my WA TEMPORARY license (which I have) I had to pay $88 to submit the paperwork. Additionally I had to be fingerprinted which was a tame $68.50. Now here's the most frustrating part: the math portion of the PRAXIS $35, and the English Language Arts test $155! For those of you keeping track that's $346.50 (yes I used my calculator) and I don't even have a job or professional license. My TEMPORARY one expires in 180 days...that's January!
Do I want to teach? Not really. I was looking forward to the move West so I could get out of education but momma needs a job. I've applied to at least 35-50 non-education jobs since I've been here and still I am unemployed. It seems the only thing I can do with two degrees in education is teach! Shocking!! Avery starts school Sept. 5 and in the meantime I'll do what I do every morning for two hours: check internet job boards, make phone calls to see if they're hiring, stop by to fill out an application, and keep my fingers crossed. I know something will come about as it always does, but for now frustration reigns supreme.
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
The Face in the Mirror
Recently I met a woman who has been undergoing oral treatment for Thyroid Cancer. We discussed some of the negative side effects associated with drugs meant to keep you alive. It was nice to talk to someone who actually understands what if feels like to look in the mirror and not recognize the person staring back.
I remember very clearly the day I looked in the mirror and I didn't recognize the face staring back at me. Everyone has an idea of who they are on the outside and when that image doesn't match what you're seeing it's quite unnerving. The drugs I was taking to keep me alive were wreaking havoc on my body. I had dark side burns, not a good look on a woman, chin whiskers, and about 20 extra pounds. The hairs could be waxed and the weight could be lost but my self-esteem was damaged; I didn't know who I was anymore. Rather than take steps to alleviate the problem, i.e. exercise and diet, I made excuses..."At least I'm alive" or "It's hopeless because of the prednisone." I continued to make these excuses for the next several years. People say it takes a village to raise a child, well, I think it takes a group of awesome girlfriends to raise your self-confidence and help you love yourself again.
Although I didn't necessarily enjoy living in the state of Kentucky, I'm so thankful we ended up there because I met the best friends I could hope for. We all came into our friendship with our own various body issues...big booty, chunky thighs, pudgy belly...you name it we bashed it! We decided we'd do something about our bodies and began working out at least three days a week. We would walk, jog, zumba, lift weights, or interval train. It's amazing how much fun exercise can be when you're working out with friends. As many of you know I'm a pretty positive person and this attitude transfered to our workouts. I made a rule that we all had to say something positive about our bodies during our sessions. It started as something quite simple but the affect on my psyche was drastic. The two versions of myself began to mesh. I began to focus on what was awesome about me and focus less on what needed improvement. Thanks to my friends I started to feel like the person I knew I was.
I still have chin whiskers which require waxing; I still have a pudgy belly and the DeWitt butt and thighs but these days I exercise because it makes me feel good. I don't worry about the number on a scale because it doesn't dictate how I feel about myself. I don't compare myself to images on the t.v. or in a magazine because they aren't me. I'm 5 ft. tall and take three immunosuppresent drugs including prednisone...a supermodel I am not. I want to set a good example for Avery and be a hot sexy momma for my hubby! These days the outside matches the inside and I love and recognize the face in the mirror. I'm one hot momma!
I remember very clearly the day I looked in the mirror and I didn't recognize the face staring back at me. Everyone has an idea of who they are on the outside and when that image doesn't match what you're seeing it's quite unnerving. The drugs I was taking to keep me alive were wreaking havoc on my body. I had dark side burns, not a good look on a woman, chin whiskers, and about 20 extra pounds. The hairs could be waxed and the weight could be lost but my self-esteem was damaged; I didn't know who I was anymore. Rather than take steps to alleviate the problem, i.e. exercise and diet, I made excuses..."At least I'm alive" or "It's hopeless because of the prednisone." I continued to make these excuses for the next several years. People say it takes a village to raise a child, well, I think it takes a group of awesome girlfriends to raise your self-confidence and help you love yourself again.
Although I didn't necessarily enjoy living in the state of Kentucky, I'm so thankful we ended up there because I met the best friends I could hope for. We all came into our friendship with our own various body issues...big booty, chunky thighs, pudgy belly...you name it we bashed it! We decided we'd do something about our bodies and began working out at least three days a week. We would walk, jog, zumba, lift weights, or interval train. It's amazing how much fun exercise can be when you're working out with friends. As many of you know I'm a pretty positive person and this attitude transfered to our workouts. I made a rule that we all had to say something positive about our bodies during our sessions. It started as something quite simple but the affect on my psyche was drastic. The two versions of myself began to mesh. I began to focus on what was awesome about me and focus less on what needed improvement. Thanks to my friends I started to feel like the person I knew I was.
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| Enjoying the beautiful Oregon sites on another hike |
Monday, August 6, 2012
What'dja do this Weekend?
Every Monday morning at offices and business across the country this is the topic of conversation. If you would have asked me this question four months ago my response would have been "worked around the house," "went to Bardstown Road," "hung out with the neighbors," or "not much." These days, however, my answer is quite different.
Vancouver, Washington has been the best change for my family. On any given Saturday or Sunday you may find us challenging ourselves on a hike, shopping in the Farmer's Market, climbing at the indoor rock gym, or discovering new restaurants. We live a much more active and outdoor centered life, quite a change from Kentucky.
This past weekend began with Paddleboard lessons at Lake Vancouver. The scene on the water Saturday was surreal; standing on the paddleboard I could see Mt. Hood and Mt. St. Helens. The only distinguishing characteristic of the two is that Hood is pointed and St. Helens is rounded due to the explosion. We left from there to catch the tail end of an air show which featured the Thunderbirds. From there we caught a free Japanese festival at the oldest Buddhist Temple in Oregon. Next was the search for food. Those of you who know us well know we plan a good portion of our travels around food. Yelp! is the best for finding awesome food. Anyway, Kenny & Zuke's was a fantastic find! It's a deli with the most amazing pastrami I've ever eaten. I even tried pickled cow tongue; it was quite good!
Sunday we decided to hike at Eagle Creek National Park. Compared to the other hikes we've gone on this was mild in comparison meaning there were no switchbacks or significant increases in elevation. What the hike lacked in intensity more than made up for in the "holy shit" factor. The trail meanders along the Eagle Creek where some of the trail was no wider than 3 feet. There were jagged rocks and outcroppings along most of the trail and at certain points there was a thick cable to use as a handrail so you didn't risk plunging to the bottom of the gorge! The most gorgeous find was the Upper and Lower Punchbowl. These are a set of waterfalls where people congregate to swim, take risks, and lounge in the sun. The Upper waterfall drops about 50 ft. and the Lower about 9 ft. The pool in the Upper is only about 12 ft. deep so jumping into it isn't recommended; however, many do and end up sorry they did. The Lower is the more tame of the two and the safest for those not wishing to injure themselves. With that said Avery took the plunge after much debate! Such a daredevil! I couldn't be shown up by my kiddo so I decided to jump too:) The water was a frigid 60 degrees which shocked the system but felt good the longer you stayed in. The hardest part was climbing up the cliff face from the water! Good thing we've been practicing our rock climbing! We hiked a total of 9 miles, ended up with aching legs, sore feet, and amazing memories!
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| Hang on to that rail! |
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| KC getting as close as possible to the waterfall |
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| My two favorite people |
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| The water was about 60 degrees but it was 94 outside; it felt good! |
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| My husband of course brought wine for us to have with lunch. Thanks to Naked Winery who makes wine in plastic bottles for easy transport. |
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| My fearless kiddo taking the plunge |
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| Momma's turn |
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| Upper Punchbowl. KC and Avery had to swim in the chilly water to get to that island; notice the doggie in the foreground. |
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| One of the many beautiful sights along the way |
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| I snapped this quickly as my family was standing on the edge of a cliff. |
The move from Kentucky to Washington has been quite a transition. We left behind awesome friends, family, a job, and all things familiar. What we ended up with was a new respect for the beauty of Mother Nature, corny I know, a new closeness as a family, and many more weekends worth of Monday morning stories to share.
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