tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76363315286363462252024-03-12T17:29:26.590-07:00Forever YoungMishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09851717751355923793noreply@blogger.comBlogger46125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636331528636346225.post-56108698355262627552024-01-12T11:30:00.001-08:002024-01-12T11:32:48.058-08:00Life Recap October 2018 - March 2020<p> (Not sure why, but I didn't write any of this on 1/12)</p><p>Well, today I had my first online therapy appointment and my counselor suggested that I started journaling again. Admittedly, it's something I've been meaning to do, but here we are. </p><p>So, lemme think what all has happened since October 2018. One sec while I grab my calendar. </p><p>Here are the highlights: </p><p>September 2018 - Chris planned a surprise getaway to a cabin in Norris and it was a ton of fun. So many friends that came and it was really special </p><p>October 2018 - Chris and I surprised mom for her 70th/retirement and joined the Shaggers for a cruise. Our first ever and definitely want to do one again. Of course mom cried when she found out we were going. We all loved every minute of it </p><p>December 2018 - annual trip to Asheville with Emily H </p><p>January 2019 - annual SCCA convention in Las Vegas and the wedding of Mark and Chasity! </p><p>February 2019 - BJ Barham (Chattanooga), Coheed and Cambria (Knoxville), Old Crow (Knoxville) </p><p>March 2019 - Turpike Troub (Caverns in Pelham)</p><p>May 2019 - Tool (Knoxville) </p><p>June 2019 - hockey/goalie camp in Austin, Texas. Jenni flew down for part of the trip and we had the best time. Met a ton of new people and partied way too much. Austin is definitely a cool town and will want to go back </p><p>September 2019 - Chris went out west with Curt</p><p>October 2019 - Bachelorette party for Chasity in Nashville, Tool in Cincinnati </p><p>December 2019 - Asheville with Emily (met new boyfriend Trey) </p><p>January 2020 - Went to Vegas for Mark and Chasity's wedding , Tool in Nashville</p><p>March 2020 - The month the world stopped. It had been talked about in February'ish that Covid was a reality in the US. Jenni came in town for St. Patricks day weekend (we got our nips pierced too!). <br />I do remember that at first, we didn't take it so seriously and then Chris woke up on a Sunday and said "we should probably go to the store". We went to 2 different stores and they had already been raided of meat, cleaning supplies and toilet paper, of all things. Pretty much for the rest of the year, it was a series of virtual happy hours with friends, online trivia leagues and iracing leagues. <br />One of the hardest parts, was knowing that Pat was in the nursing home and that we weren't able to visit with her. After several months, they started allowing window visits, which was always heart breaking to leave. Then a few months later, they started allowing in person-visits but only after we had to take rapid covid tests. Such a crazy time. </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636331528636346225.post-80151458514882412132023-07-07T13:59:00.001-07:002023-07-07T13:59:38.909-07:00July 7, 2023<p> I just had my 2nd session with Phillip at Talkspace. <br />He's an old soul and very easy to talk to. I told him that I feel much better this week and can at least talk about my treatment plans w/out crying! (8 sessions left to go!)</p><p>We touched on the topic of grief again today, and he asked me how many times I had shared my story of losing my dad. It really struck me, that I haven't really talked about it. Granted, Chris lived it with me, but no one really, truly asked me what happened, how did you feel, etc. He's challenging me to share my stories (both dad and Micah) so I'm going to explore that. </p><p>We also touched a bit on spirituality since that is both in our backgrounds. I told him I was open to incorporating this in our sessions. </p><p>I think it's still a bit early to tell whether this will truly make me whole again but for now, I've got some good reading materials and will read what is in front of me. </p><p>On a side note, we are going to RT Lodge tomorrow. Should be a nice break and a change of scenery. </p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636331528636346225.post-24343440508379663842023-07-02T16:13:00.001-07:002023-07-02T16:13:54.294-07:00July 2, 2023<p>So leading up to this point, I was in preparation for back surgery. I decided to get my mammogram and unfortunately it was the dreaded word of cancer. If there is a "good" to all of this, it's that it was caught early (stage 1A/1B) and the genetics testing was negative, which means the likelihood of a reoccurrence is very low. Armed with the genetics test, we decided to proceed with lumpectomy followed by 20 rounds of radiation. </p><p>As of tomorrow, I will have 12 more sessions. (I go every day M-F). I do have to say that leading up to the surgery I wasn't really all that worried. I was just looking forward to getting it over with. Surgery day was fairly easy and really, the biggest pain in the neck was the drain that I had to wear for a week. Lisa/work has been amazing and so I was able to take the full week off and not have to worry about emails, etc. </p><p>The real hurdle for me has been going thru radiation. That first treatment brought up a whole slew of emotions. I laid on the table and as I could hear the machine zapping me, I fought to hold back tears but ultimately I lost. The treatment itself only lasts about 10 minutes and thank God for the technicians. They hugged me and assured me that I was feeling completely normal. To be honest I am super lucky to be at the stage I'm in, so I think I was trying to hold in all my emotions due to the fact that I know Katrinda Scott and Kristin Alm are going thru so much worse than I am. It's almost like I felt that I didn't have the "right" to be in so much sadness. Every day has been a bit better and finally this past Wednesday (a week into treatment) I completed a session w/out crying. </p><p>I realized that I needed help and I know there is nothing that Chris, my mom or any friends can say that will all of a sudden make me feel better. I signed up for Talkspace (since I have met my out of pocket for the year) and had my first session Friday night. It's a virtual setting which works well for scheduling. I told my counselor that I think at the end of the day, I haven't been able to process the grief of losing Micah, Dad, the divorce, mamaw, etc. so now I add on the fact that I'm dealing with cancer, it's been too much for me to handle. We are going to start tackling that and maybe having someone that doesn't care if I ramble on (or cry), will help. </p><p>Chris went to Bristol this weekend and I stayed home, mainly because Abby can't handle the heat anymore, but it was good timing to be myself. I did get sick yesterday, so not sure if it was food related or side effects of the radiation. I'll talk with the doctor tomorrow about it. </p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636331528636346225.post-70819865912489475352018-10-09T09:52:00.001-07:002018-10-09T09:52:35.284-07:00September 2018 Happening <br />
September is a busy month for the Lawson/Harp birthdays.<br />
<br />
This year Chris turned 38 so this year we went downtown with Emily and met up with some friends for Wine on the Water on Neyland drive. It is a great concept but lord o' mercy - talk about having too much to drink. After going to Barley's for some late night pizza we uber'd back to Emily's and I hate to admit that we ended up spending the night - poor doggies but we were in NO shape to drive.<br />
<br />
On the 23rd Mom turned 70! It just so happened that it fell on our last auto-x at Bristol so she was able to come up for the day and even got to do a ride-along with Chris. We shared it on FB and everyone got a kick out of it. I love her free spirit and hope I am still that way when I'm her age<br />
<br />
The weekend of the 28th was of course my big 40! We started Thursday night with late night dinner and drinks at Wild Wing with our good friend Kim. I swear I was counting down to midnight like it was NYE. The next day on the 28th we headed to Virginia for Maria and Andrew's wedding. At the rehearsal dinner Maria surprised me with a dessert and a Happy Birthday song but spilled the beans about a birthday party - but I still have no details.. God love her. The wedding was beautiful and the reception was probably one of the funnest I have been too. From the food, open bar to the dancing and photo booth. We had a blast. So glad to call them friends.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636331528636346225.post-35643100654848094012018-09-18T18:52:00.000-07:002018-09-18T18:52:14.310-07:00Life RecapSo how do I try and recap what has happened since my last post? I think I'm more stuck on the fact that it has been since January 2016! Where in the heck did time go.<br />
<br />
So let me try at a high level to recap the last couple of years<br />
<ul>
<li>We spent a lot of time seeing concerts some to include Foo Fighters, Turnpike Troubadors, Fleetwood Mac, Blackberry Smoke, Jamey Johnson, Flaming Lips, Perfect Circle, a whirlwind trip to AZ to see Tool and Primus and most recently Rod Stewart. I should also add that most of these bands we traveled to see and saw them more than once. We are some dedicated fans!</li>
<ul>
<li>One of the highlights of seeing TT so many times is that a couple of the band guys recognize us when we go to the shows. At one show in Asheville they invited us to a bar afterwards where we shot pool, had drinks and then shared an Uber back to the venue to drop them off. </li>
</ul>
<li>Chris picked up Hockey again at the local rink so we spend a good chunk of time at the rink. We also were able to get to Nashville and watch the Predator play multiple times. Those were some awesome games </li>
<li>Took some trips to Las Vegas. </li>
<ul>
<li>This year we splurged and stayed at Aria which was<br />ah-mazing. Went with some good friends Trey and Shannon and had some fantastic meals. </li>
<li>Steve and Amanda got married </li>
</ul>
<li>Jen and I took a girls trip to New Orleans. Went to a cooking class, did some shopping and enjoyed not being on a schedule. </li>
<li>We got a new dog - Curtis Emmett. </li>
<li>Lots of traveling with Auto-x. From Ft. Myers, FL to Oscoda, MI - we had some pretty cool experiences and met some great people. </li>
<li>August 2017 we celebrated our 10 year anniversary and Chris surprised the heck out of me! All he told me was to pack my bags and didn't give too much more details. We headed towards downtown and stopped at Chesapeake's for dinner. This was some place we talked about going but never made it. We then went to Clancy's for a drink and then started walking down Gay Street. He then pulled me into an ally and showed me a hotel key. He had rented the gorgeous Tailor Lofts - https://www.vrbo.com/780429 and I couldn't have been more surprised. He had also made a photo album of our last 15 years - of course I cried. Then before I knew it people started pouring in and we had the best weekend. I love surprises and he absolutely killed it! </li>
<li>Most recently he surprised me for my upcoming 40th with a BMW M3! I have ALWAYS wanted a BMW and he found an exceptional one from a fellow auto-xer in NC. It is absolutely gorgeous and I find myself still shocked that it's mine. I tell ya, I'm one lucky gal to be a Harp. </li>
<li><br /></li>
</ul>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636331528636346225.post-68579432156450678012016-02-03T12:19:00.002-08:002023-06-30T17:21:05.134-07:00Kung Fu - Week 81/25 - Monday<br />
Sifu<br />
Chinese New Year is just a couple of week away so we are starting to really focus on what each of us are going to do. I'm not sure at this point if I will be doing anything but I want to be prepared!<br />
Sifu broke us up in groups so a newer guy and I were in the same group.<br />
Each group had to come out in front of the class and do our last form in front of everyone.<br />
I did 8 Chain Punch - and at first it was very messy and sloppy.<br />
By the time class was over I actually managed to tweak out the entire form! Sifu even commented when I was done that I did all the forms! <br />
This was a good boost to my confidence! I'm in no way saying that I have it down perfectly but so glad I was able to get through it!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636331528636346225.post-19820969827118540872016-01-26T16:35:00.000-08:002016-01-26T16:35:40.253-08:00October - National Dwarfism Awareness MonthThis post started in October. I put in the back burner but finally had time tonight to finish it up.. here it goes:<br />
<br />
I saw a post on FB today that October is Dwarfism Awareness month. <br />
To be honest, I never knew such a thing existed. <br />
<br />
I don't get on a soapbox too often but this obviously hits very close to home.<br />
My brother and I were both born with a rare type of dwarfism that while we were short our limbs were proportinate. There are over 200 types of dwarfism and my specific type counts for a very small percentage. <br />
<br />
Ever since I can remember my parents took us to see pioneer in the dwarfism field - Dr. Steven Kopits. He was based out of Johns Hopkins and later moved to St. Joseph's hospital outside of Baltimore, MD. Every year my family would load up the car and take our "vacation" to see Dr. Kopits. My parents wanted absolutely nothing but the best for my brother and I and when our local pediatrician couldn't do the job they found the best doc around. I have very many memories of my days spent at St. Joseph's - all the nurses, the playroom (which had an awesome gaming console that we could play Galaga for free!) and the fellow little people that I would meet through my many visits.<br />
<br />
My brother and I had surgeries to correct various side effects from the dwarfism. My brother had hip and knee replacement. I had a neck fusion to correct some slipping vertabraes that if left untreated could have caused me to be paralyzed. I will forever be grateful to my parents for making the yearly trips (sometimes multiple trips) and wanting only the best for us. <br />
<br />
So the reason of my rant is that knowing that October is dedicated to "Dwarfism Awareness" I wanted to share some thoughts from my perspective.<br />
<br />
I have an amazing husband and an awesome circle of friends and family
that never saw or treated me as different but alas, the world can still
be a cruel place. Even at 37 the points, stares and whispers can still get to me. I'm not talking about children per say but older kids, teens and even adults that for whatever reason think it's acceptable to be rude and condescending. Many days I want to reply "geez, I have no idea how tall I am, how fat are you!" but I can't ever bring myself to say it.<br />
<br />
I welcome the conversations with children since now a lot of my friends
have kids of their own that are in that inquisitive phase. I don't want my friends to be shy
or embarrassed if they ask "why are you so little" or "are you a
mommy". I hope that in some small way I can help open the dialogue with them and funny enough once I tell them that "God made me this way" they seem satisfied with that answer.<br />
<br />
So my challenge is this, and it's pretty simple - "Treat others the way you want to be treated".<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636331528636346225.post-21815043297749367542016-01-26T16:14:00.000-08:002016-01-26T16:14:03.698-08:00Concert Review - Foo Fighters For those of you that don't know me I love concerts - even if they are a band that I don't like or have never heard of. Something about seeing a musician in their element doing their thing is really cool. <br />
<br />
So far this year I talked about going to see Fleetwood Mac. On July 4th we headed to DC to see the Foo Fighters at RFK Stadium. If you have never seen the FF's you should really do yourself a favor and see them. They are phenomenal live<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1MtPoTp2ECuTzh4aUGcqbmdSsye6vbwJ5HJddEi6x6NqoJ4uQhgC54mBk8ApkAC0UHaBVHGLncT2k2CJAwgnpf7hJmMIppkV7_9F6Xjv9Fhf5aMuiXz82xeqCcWy-5KlQMQ7gE_-56cpG/s1600/FOO-Fighters-%2540-JFK-620x400-DL-Template.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1MtPoTp2ECuTzh4aUGcqbmdSsye6vbwJ5HJddEi6x6NqoJ4uQhgC54mBk8ApkAC0UHaBVHGLncT2k2CJAwgnpf7hJmMIppkV7_9F6Xjv9Fhf5aMuiXz82xeqCcWy-5KlQMQ7gE_-56cpG/s320/FOO-Fighters-%2540-JFK-620x400-DL-Template.jpg" width="233" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="text-align: start;">This would be the first event after Dave Grohl broke his leg so it wasn't until a few weeks prior that we knew the show was still going to go on. Dave showed up on stage in a "throne" and rocked like none other! </span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4CSNrkoGwE1h1Ootpp5nK8nmmMnFKChUqnH5b4AbeT6vDZDdVZrn7SlJz8wTGFKZA41UAniIS6GLi5fHOyQA2S0XKBfZ-y6FbEeLS5bKQKbP-zrjmeDieehEw7JlcyzvbJ0pfatfnZzMh/s1600/dave-grohl-foo-fighters-throne.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4CSNrkoGwE1h1Ootpp5nK8nmmMnFKChUqnH5b4AbeT6vDZDdVZrn7SlJz8wTGFKZA41UAniIS6GLi5fHOyQA2S0XKBfZ-y6FbEeLS5bKQKbP-zrjmeDieehEw7JlcyzvbJ0pfatfnZzMh/s320/dave-grohl-foo-fighters-throne.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
The crowds were insane but thankfully we were able to get some really good seats. So glad we were able to make it to this one.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDTZhRNNp6zz8zERBtv9Rmo1LB2tmklLNl_nQF5zoVuMRy1iDtu9KfqYJyFNjSRIJRYMdApNMF_TOgEHCBjsOvHCWSfuBOg8Qb2AmK5r7-T8LfoZpj8sc8R-Q4fV4mujW_lmXwVDB9aQov/s1600/images.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDTZhRNNp6zz8zERBtv9Rmo1LB2tmklLNl_nQF5zoVuMRy1iDtu9KfqYJyFNjSRIJRYMdApNMF_TOgEHCBjsOvHCWSfuBOg8Qb2AmK5r7-T8LfoZpj8sc8R-Q4fV4mujW_lmXwVDB9aQov/s1600/images.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
The next time we saw the Foo's was in October 2015 - in Atlanta. We were able to get amazing spots by the stage. (this isn't my picture but pretty accurate of how close we were!) <br />Jewel came out and did an awesome cover of Stop Dragin my Heart Around. You can watch it <a href="http://consequenceofsound.net/2015/10/dave-grohl-and-jewel-duet-on-stop-draggin-my-heart-around-at-foo-fighters-show-watch/" target="_blank">here!</a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhntrQiuckhP4-P2PEP1mRBs0rR6ZRToeZ0bUIripD2QFSQsvLY7l-IlzsHFZoPiy0rjDPVfpWaCjTWnXmvMUM_dSQ1lgtCxuNUk0O-BabBL6hT1unQl4H-MB5FeiUdrqbOqyp6BbWumZDG/s1600/Foo%2527s+Atlanta+2015.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="212" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhntrQiuckhP4-P2PEP1mRBs0rR6ZRToeZ0bUIripD2QFSQsvLY7l-IlzsHFZoPiy0rjDPVfpWaCjTWnXmvMUM_dSQ1lgtCxuNUk0O-BabBL6hT1unQl4H-MB5FeiUdrqbOqyp6BbWumZDG/s320/Foo%2527s+Atlanta+2015.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
And if 2 shows were not enough we saw them the next night in Nashville. We met up with a couple of friends and again - another epic night! Can't wait till the next show!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636331528636346225.post-65454773432428727512016-01-08T18:06:00.005-08:002023-06-30T17:21:16.906-07:00Kung Fu - Week 5 Day 9: 1/4 - Monday<br />
Sifu<br />
Tonight I felt pretty good and did an OK job of keeping up. I felt a little tired and sore from Saturday but it usually doesn't take too long to start loosening up.<br />
We did quite a bit of breathing and our normal warm-up drills. After warm-ups we got ready for line-drills.<br />
I'm starting to get the foot work down but I'm still out of whack when it comes to coordinating my feet with my punches. It's cool to have the Seniors cheer and come along side me but I am determined I will get this down! We did a lot of punches and various holds. Of course Rev was my partner. She's a funny kid but eager to help me out. <br />
We finished class and I did about 20 minutes of extra stretches. <br />
Those of that stayed after class went out for dinner. It's cool getting to know these people outside of class.<br />
<br />
1/7 - Tuesday<br />
Today is not a KF day but I wanted to document how I was feeling. <br />
I woke up not feeling 100%. I started feeling some achy-ness throughout my body which I can only describe as feeling like the flu. I came home from work, ate dinner and fell asleep on the couch around 7:30.<br />
<br />
Day 10: 1/6 - Wednesday<br />
Missed<br />
I woke up again today to the aches and pains like Tuesday on a bigger scale. Today my pain was moving down my left leg and my right arm was hurting more than usual. (I had issues with bursitis in the past). I told Chris I didn't think I could make it to class and came on home after work.<br />
I spent the night pulling some of my old medical files from Dr. Kopits and the last specialist that I saw in 2006. In Dr. K's file from the 90's the talks of a hip replacement were there but nothing he felt was terribly urgent. He did mention that having the surgery would head off any pain when I got older but at the time I was going into my senior year of high-school and the timing was not the best.<br />
The papers from the Dr. in Ohio said similar things but also mentioned my weight. At the time I was 120 (at least I've hovered around the same weight all these years). This further proves that the weight is definitely a factor. <br />
<br />
1/7 - Thursday<br />
Feeling about the same but today the pain is moving down my lower back. <br />
Got home after work and had Chris rub some tiger balm on my lower back. The pain was pretty severe.<br />
The aches through the rest of my body are still there but maybe not as bad as yesterday.<br />
We watched tv for a bit but around 11 Chris and I started doing some more research and a lot of the signs were pointing to <a href="http://www.webmd.com/a-to-z-guides/rhabdomyolysis-symptoms-causes-treatments" target="_blank">Rhabdomyolysis.</a> After a few minutes we decided to head to the ER just to be on the safe side. They ran some blood work and a urine sample and thankfully everything checked out Ok. <br />
The dr. said my CK levels were a little elevated but nothing to be worried about. <br />
<br />
Day 11: 1/8 - Friday<br />
Missed<br />
After yesterday I decided today that I would go ahead and just take the rest of the weekend off and decide to go back to class on Monday.<br />
<br />
Day 12: 1/9 - Saturday<br />
Missed<br />
<br />
Overall I was bummed to miss so many classes but I definitely feel that I have to start listening to my body.<br />
Chris said that Sifu and several others asked how I was doing so that made me feel good :)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636331528636346225.post-52255728766442623112016-01-08T16:59:00.001-08:002023-06-30T17:20:50.566-07:00Kung-Fu Week 4Day 9: 12/28 - Monday<br />
Teacher: Sifu<br />
<br />
Day 10: 12/30 - Wednesday<br />
Teacher: J<br />
<br />
Day 11: 1/1 - Friday<br />
Did not go to class<br />
<br />
Day 12: 1/2 - Saturday<br />
Teacher: L<br />
I should have known this was going to be a brutal class when he asked if I had a sweater because we are going to be running. We bowed into class and then collectively ran out the front door.<br />
I knew I had to pace myself when I started but I definitely didn't do a good job. It was about 30ish degrees outside and the run was maybe a 1/2 mile? I wasn't sure what the protocol was for quitting but I didn't.<br />
I jogged as far as I could and then I when I couldn't catch my breath I alternated from jogging to walking.<br />
I wanted to keep up so badly but there was just no way that I was going to be able to.<br />
When the last person got out of my view I felt completely helpless and defeated. I shed some tears and kept trying to pull myself together. Once I made it closer to the school I saw someone running towards me and it was Chris. He helped me make the last leg of the jog where we got right back into class for some warm-ups. Since I was so far behind there was only about 10 minutes left of warmups and thank God for that. My chest was hurting so bad, I couldn't catch my breath and all I wanted to do was cry.<br />
L came over and just told me to keep my hands above my head but knowing I was not in good shape Chris recommended I go outside and do breathing exercises to get my heart rate down.<br />
I ended up spending about 20-25 minutes outside before I felt somewhat back to normal. Once I got back into class they had just finished doing circuit drills so I spent about 10 minutes doing my form and then class was over. <br />
I made sure to tell Leroy that I was so sorry for having to bow out of class but I honestly felt that if I didn't I would have passed out. He understood and apologized but I have to start listening to my body and learn to let the guilt go when I can't physically complete something. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636331528636346225.post-36483380880713392742016-01-06T19:08:00.002-08:002023-06-30T17:20:28.473-07:00Kung-Fu MamaOver the last 5 weeks I have embarked on a physical journey that has been about 12 years in the making and wanted to make that a focus of my blog for the next little bit.<br />
<br />
Over the last few years I have done gyms, at home work-outs, you name it I probably have at least entertained the idea of trying it. Like most people I have packed on a few extra pounds since my<br />
early 20's - probably 20 to 30 pounds. Being so short the added weight has not done my joints any good. <br />
I struggle to make it through a day without Advil or my favorite drug of choice lately- Excedrin.<br />
If I know I am going to be doing a lot of walking I make sure to pre-medicate to avoid the after-math of aches and pains. I know that the added weight has contributed to the pain as well as a hip replacement that I probably should have had when I was younger.<br />
<br />
So fast forward to how I got to today. Noticing the extra pounds I was putting on as well as Chris, I realized we needed to start making changes. We were getting in a bad habit of eating and drinking out several nights a week and this just expedited the weight gain.<br />
<br />
Leading up to 12/7/15 my knowledge of Kung-Fu has been limited to what I knew through Chris.<br />
When we first met in 2001 I knew that Chris spent a lot of time at "the school" but I didn't really know any specifics about what Kung-Fu was all about. I just knew that it consumed a lot of his time and to be honest I didn't really understand. The idea of having a hobby was very foreign to me. Growing up I never had any hobbies or belonged to any clubs or groups. I guess in part due to the small, private school setting - there weren't many options.<br />
<br />
Over time, Chris slowly gave up Kung-Fu to pursue other hobbies and eventually gave it up all together.<br />
He left the school on good terms and in fact several fellow students and the Instructor (we refer to him as "Sifu") came to our wedding. <br />
<br />
When I first thought about mentioning Kung-Fu I knew it would be a serious commitment of our time and money and wasn't sure if I was prepared for that. But, I knew something had to give so after talking with Chris we stopped by the school and talked to Sifu. We talked for a bit about some of my limitations and<br />
ultimately decided I would give it a try.<br />
<br />
So on 12/7 we started our journey - this time together.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636331528636346225.post-8288966012316876312015-03-14T08:05:00.000-07:002015-03-14T08:05:11.954-07:00Don't Stop! So last weekend Chris and I were able to see the great <a href="http://www.fleetwoodmac.com/splash" target="_blank">Fleetwood Mac</a> at Thompson Boling Arena. I had goosebumps from the first song (Chains) to the last song - which I can't remember right off hand... oops. <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Chris actually first introduced me to Fleetwood Mac when we first started dating - back in 2001. Growing up I wasn't allowed to listen to anything but Christian music so if it wasn't played on our local Christian station then chances were I had never heard of it. </div>
<div>
Many times we would drive around and listen to their Greatest Hits album and I have been a fan ever since. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So fast forward to last weekend when we were able to see them live. They played for almost 3 hours and it was incredible from start to finish. We were in the nose-bleed section - partly because of the cost of the tickets but just to be able to say we saw them will definitely be a highlight of our concert trips. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
One of my favorite songs (hard to pick just one) is Don't Stop. It reminds me that even though bad days happen, people let me down and the general stresses of life happen, tomorrow is just around the corner. </div>
<div>
<br style="border: 0px none; font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13.4399995803833px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;" /><div style="border: 0px none; font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13.4399995803833px; margin: 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;">
If you wake up and don't want to smile,<br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />If it takes just a little while,<br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />Open your eyes and look at the day,<br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />You'll see things in a different way.</div>
<div style="border: 0px none; font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13.4399995803833px; margin: 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />Don't stop, thinking about tomorrow,<br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />Don't stop, it'll soon be here,<br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />It'll be, better than before,<br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />Yesterday's gone, yesterday's gone.</div>
<div style="border: 0px none; font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13.4399995803833px; margin: 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />Why not think about times to come,<br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />And not about the things that you've done,<br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />If your life was bad to you,<br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />Just think what tomorrow will do.</div>
<div style="border: 0px none; font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13.4399995803833px; margin: 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />Don't stop, thinking about tomorrow,<br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />Don't stop, it'll soon be here,<br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />It'll be, better than before,<br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />Yesterday's gone, yesterday's gone.</div>
<div style="border: 0px none; font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13.4399995803833px; margin: 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />All I want is to see you smile,<br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />If it takes just a little while,<br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />I know you don't believe that it's true,<br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />I never meant any harm to you.</div>
<div style="border: 0px none; font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13.4399995803833px; margin: 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />Don't stop, thinking about tomorrow,<br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />Don't stop, it'll soon be here,<br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />It'll be, better than before,<br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />Yesterday's gone, yesterday's gone.<br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />Don't you look back,<br style="border: 0px none; font-size: 1em; margin: 0px; padding: 0px;" />Don't you look back.</div>
<div style="border: 0px none; font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13.4399995803833px; margin: 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="border: 0px none; font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 13.4399995803833px; margin: 0px 10px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;">
(lyrics from AZ Lyrics) </div>
</div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636331528636346225.post-61703214752938502222015-03-02T14:20:00.001-08:002015-03-02T14:20:44.808-08:00Yum! So I don't really ever write too much about recipes but thought that after making this delicious recipe, oh going on the 100th time, I might spread the love.<br />
<br />
I love my crock-pot and I love salmon. So one day I was doing a little googling and came across this <a href="http://crockpot365.blogspot.com/2008/03/crockpot-sweet-and-spicy-salmon-recipe.html" target="_blank">gem of a recipe </a>. It is my go-to, make at least 3x a month recipe AND the best part is how easy it is to fix! <br /><br />I typically pair this with rice and steamed vegi's and Voila!<br />
<br />
The other great thing about this recipe is that it works just as well with frozen salmon. I buy a big bag of Wild-Caught Pink Salmon and whenever I go to make this I just run the individual packets under warm water for about 5-10 minutes and then once I take them out of the plastic wrap I make sure to pat them dry. Otherwise you will end up with a lot of excess water in you packets.<br />
<br />
Hope you all enjoy this as much as I do!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636331528636346225.post-58733647134139842622015-02-17T11:25:00.001-08:002015-02-17T11:25:51.105-08:00Ice Day!The great IceStorm of 2015 hit and it was a doozy. It started around 10:30 yesterday morning and thankfully I was able to get him from work just in time. A lot of friends were without power and fortunately ours stayed on until this morning! It went off around 8 and finally came on around 1:30. We spent the morning cleaning our office and reading. Temps in the house dropped to about 62 so we were thrilled it finally came back on!<br />
<br />
Currently I'm warming up watching old re-runs of Beverly Hills 90210 and cuddling with the pups. We might venture out later for some dinner but just depends on the roads. Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636331528636346225.post-91042782321224210382015-01-30T16:03:00.000-08:002015-01-30T16:03:35.237-08:00RelationshipsI was just thinking the other day about the dynamic of the relationship I have with my mom and wondered when we became more than just "mother" and "daughter".<br />
<br />
Growing up our relationship was always close and she would do just about anything for my brother and I. Heck, she even quit a job at TVA to stay at home with us. <br />
<br />
When her and my dad split it was months after I lost my brother in a car accident and I felt that my whole world was falling around me. She ultimately chose to leave and for close to a year I harbored anger and bitterness that she would leave me to help raise my niece when I was trying to start my own life. <br />
<br />
After months of months of pushing my mom away I realized that it was making me miserable. I don't remember the exact chain of events but I do know that we started to repair the damage. It took a long time for me to regain the trust that I once had with her but it finally happened.<br />
<br />
So through the years the dynamic changed and became one of friendship. She's usually the first person I call for advice and I know that we can pretty much talk about anything and she will be as diplomatic as possible when I have a decision to make.<br />
<br />
Maybe this is normal for most mother's and daughter's but I feel pretty lucky to have her as mine. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636331528636346225.post-48997503057059914502014-12-30T10:57:00.002-08:002014-12-30T10:57:12.443-08:00August 2014<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">August in the Harp home was about average. Nothing terribly exciting happened. The
weekend of the 22<sup>nd</sup> we went to Atlanta for a race with our good
friends and <i>that</i> was an exciting
weekend. <br />
<!--[if !supportLineBreakNewLine]--><br />
<!--[endif]--><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We left work and headed down the road arriving at our hotel
around 11:15 pm. As we pulled in to the
hotel I went to the trunk to get our luggage and low and behold it wasn’t there.
While I’m usually calm and collected this time I was neither calm nor
collected. It was Atlanta. In August and it was going to be HOT<br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So upon realizing that a certain Harp, who will rename
nameless, left our luggage at home I did what any supporting spouse did and
started slinging the curse words and “How could you?” and “What are we supposed
to do now”. To which my husband
replies: “Well, I’m sure the hotel has
an extra toothbrush”. Toothbrush?! That was the least of my concerns. How about clean underwear, deodorant, makeup,
the list goes on and on. Oh-and since I
had worn my glasses down I didn’t have my contacts either which meant that I
couldn’t wear my adorable sunglasses that I had recently purchased. <br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">So we did what we had to do and found the closest
Walmart. Upon entering Walmart I hear
the muffled voice on the intercom “We will be closing in 45 minutes, please
bring your final purchases to the front”.
Are you freaking kidding me?! I
thought ALL Wal-mart’s catered to those that forget their luggage and are open
24 hours. Nope – not this one.We decided to split and Chris went to his department and I went
to mine where I did find a few pairs of shorts that I thought would do for the
weekend. But alas, the fitting room was
closed. I begged the poor janitor – but nope,
nada, nothing he could do.<br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">You see, being 4’5 has always brought challenges where
clothes were concerned. It always means
trying things on, majority of things having to be altered, etc. So by this time Chris has returned with all
his treasures and I am standing in the aisle spewing profanities like that was
magically going to make everything ok. <br /><br /><o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">With that said Chris was a good sport and helped me find a
few pairs of gym shorts and tshirts that suited the occasion but not before we
spent $200 on all the necessities. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am glad I can laugh about it now but at the time it was
not a pretty site. Over the weekend it
was a running joke about how everything we were wearing came from Walmart.<br /> <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Just making memories as my mom always says.. </span><o:p></o:p></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636331528636346225.post-70498470151502005222014-07-18T13:04:00.000-07:002014-07-18T13:04:15.007-07:00May - July 2014Happy Summer Ya'll.<br /><br />Things are rockin' and rollin' on my end. Finally, finally seeing the light at the end of the tunnel when it comes to our financial journey. We are on track to be debt free by the end of the year (minus the house)!<br />As I type this I am listening to <a href="http://www.daveramsey.com/" target="_blank">Dave Ramsey</a> and it's so motivating! I think our original plan was to be done by August but we had to cash flow some other medical bills and took some money to do some fun things. It's hard to find a happy medium between spending and saving. <br /><br />
My new job is going great and I love learning new things every day. My co-workers are amazing and love being a part of a great team. <br /><br />I had a random dream about dad the other night. He looked like his old self and I remember thinking he looked so handsome. I miss him so much.<br />
<br />
In May we went camping a lot and had a blast. <br />The first trip was with some friends of friends that own some property on the river. We had a pig roast and that was interesting to say the least. It was a great weekend just to relax and get away.<br /><br />
The next trip was with mom and her friends up at Elkmont. It is the prime spot to see the <a href="http://www.nps.gov/grsm/naturescience/fireflies.htm" target="_blank">synchronized fireflies. </a> This brings people from all over and we got lucky enough to get a spot in the campground to whee we could walk to see them. It was amazing! I definitely would go to it again.<br />
<br />
On a separate occasion we spent the day in a kayak- that was sort of fun. We are definitely novices and manage to flip it twice! Once we decided to sit in the bottom of the kayak we managed to keep it together. It's funny now but at the time I was thinking I wanted to turn around and go back! We ended up being on the lake for about 7 or 8 hours and by the end we were exhausted. We definitely had a good workout!<br />
<br />
We have also found ourselves going to some great concerts. Thanks to Spotify we have found some great bands. Chris and I went to Cincinnati to see the Turnpike Troubadours and had an absolute blast. <br />Last weekend we went to the Shed in Maryville to see the Damn Quails.. another band Chris found on Spotify. Tomorrow night we are off to see Jamey Johnson with some friends in Greeneville, TN. Should be fun!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636331528636346225.post-18860825021221934062014-05-14T14:46:00.001-07:002014-05-14T14:46:37.757-07:00March - April 2014Spring is finally here! <br />
This winter was so cold and dreary I don't think anyone thought that warm temps were going to come. But here they are and I'm LOVING it. It has been in the 80's all week.<br />
<br />What's been going on... well I guess the biggest news is that I have started a new job and today marks my one month anniversary there. I guess I always knew that at some point I would leave my other job but just wasn't sure or when. An opportunity presented itself and I think.. scratch that... I know I made the right decision. I'm looking forward to learning all that I can and hopefully be there long term. I am able to use my accounting skills that I have learned along the way as well as be more versed in the Project Management side of things. We work a lot in the travel/tourism industry so that is something completely different for me. <br /><br />
Chris also switched up positions and is now doing marketing for several of the different brands at i10i. It was a welcome change and so glad that he's been able to explore his options.<br />
<br />
Still trucking along on the Financial Peace. We did purchase a car... cheap car... since we are now working at two separate places but still on track to have things paid off this year. We are foregoing a trip to Austin, Texas for Formula 1 but like I told Chris this is only a temporary situation. <br />
<br />
We have also started getting serious again about our health and have been using some great apps to track our calories, weight loss and steps taken during the day. I think we both realized that along with having our "financial" peace it makes sense to partner that with a "healthy" peace. I know that sounds corny but I want to be able to do and go and not worry if I have enough Advil in my purse to make through a hike.<br />
As I have gotten older my joints, especially in my hips, have gotten worse but along with that I have also put on some weight. I am hoping that by dropping 20 or so pounds that I will start to see a difference.<br />
I am currently on day 9 with no cokes whatsoever. I had done this once before when we were doing Insanity but after that was over I slowly crept back into some bad habits. I am making it a priority to ditch the colas and the fried foods for some weight loss.<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636331528636346225.post-66019014361646477882014-02-22T10:02:00.001-08:002014-02-22T10:02:30.646-08:00February 2014<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Happy February! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">For Valentine's Day we used the <a href="http://www.edwin.com/" target="_blank">Edwin McCain</a> tickets that Chris had got me for Christmas. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">He and the band were playing at the <a href="http://www.knoxbijou.com/" target="_blank">Bijou</a> and like always it was a great show. Of course he is known for the 90's ballad "I'll Be" but he really is much more than that song. I always recommend anyone go see him because the band as a whole is fantastic and very talented. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">His opener was a gal I had never heard of <a href="https://www.facebook.com/mallaryhopemusic" target="_blank">Mallary Hope</a> and she was quite the performer. A country artist and super talented. She even follows me on Twitter now! :)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">This year also starts our trek again on <a href="http://www.daveramsey.com/home/" target="_blank">Financial Peace with Dave Ramsey.</a></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Chris likes to call us "Dave's misfit children" because we have started and stopped so many times. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">In December Chris made the choice to sell his car and in doing so we were able to pay off my car and a couple of odd debts. We are both on the fast track to getting out of debt and hopefully we will be able to do our "debt free scream" in August for our anniversary. At least that is our goal and realistically we should meet it. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Dave Ramsey is a no-nonsense kind of guy and I always try to catch his radio show while running lunch errands. It's a great way to stay motivated and every time I hear a person do the debt free scream it gives me chills. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I would encourage everyone to get on a plan. Doesn't have to be Dave's plan but something that sets you up for a better future. My whole adult life I have been strapped with looming credit card debt and the thought of not having those monthly payments is getting so surreal. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I couldn't even tell you what was on the credit cards... probably some stupid clothes that I don't wear anymore, makeup from some dumb cosmetic counter and a whole stock pile of bath salts and lotions that I never used. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Just today we made a large credit card payment and can see the meter heading towards zero. Sure it would have been nice to take that vacation with friends or buy new things for the home but we are committed this time around to staying on course. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">So once we hit August we will only owe for our home and all before we are out of our 30's. We both wish we would have done this years ago but we can only look forward. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">We have started a "wish list" of sorts of things we want to purchase - with cash - the first month out of debt. I for one want to set aside some money to finish fully decorating our home. We only have a few pictures up.. kind of sad. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Chris would tell you he wants to jump back into auto-x and that is fine because now we won't have to stress about how much he spends going out to dinner with the boys after an event. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Good things are happening in the Harp household. I'm blessed to be here :)</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636331528636346225.post-19383101315664718022014-02-22T09:47:00.003-08:002014-02-22T09:47:59.324-08:00January 2014<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">For New Year's Eve we spent it with our good friend Steve and finally went to downtown Knoxville for the big ball drop. Typically we spend NYE at friend's houses but wanted to do something different this year. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">We started out doing dinner at <a href="http://soccertaco.com/" target="_blank">Soccer Taco</a>, one of our favorite Mexican joints, and then headed over to <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Suttrees-High-Gravity-Tavern/375266895858107" target="_blank">Suttree's</a> for some really good high gravity beers where we met up with some other good friends. </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Then at about 10 till midnight we headed to Market Square for the big ball drop. It was so cold so as soon as it hit midnight we scattered and got the heck out of dodge! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Over the holiday's I also got to spend some time with my good friend that came in from her studies abroad in Vienna. It was great to catch up and on another occasion had dinner with another good friend. It's so crazy that since high school we have gone different directions but still have a very strong connection so no matter how long it has been we can always pick up right where we left off. I'm truly blessed to have them in my life and will try to work on keeping in better contact with them. All my friends really. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"> Hope your NYE was as fun as mine!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">xoxo</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636331528636346225.post-17544210439193245862014-02-22T09:33:00.001-08:002014-02-22T09:33:37.483-08:00December 2013<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I</span><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">'m writing this in February so I'm sure I will forget some of the high notes of December. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Of course this month is all about Christmas and to be honest it was kind of hard to get in the "spirit". </span><span style="font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', serif;">Not really sure how to put it but I think I got caught up with a lot of work duties that it kind of spoiled it for me personally. Since I'm the Office Manager I am the go-to person for getting all of our clients their respective Christmas cards, Christmas baskets, etc. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">I also was in charge of planning our company Christmas party so it was a lot of stress in a short amount of time. I did rely heavily on some of the girls but there was only so much they could do. I do remember the day before the company party that I stayed in bed literally until about 3:30 in the afternoon. Suffered from the worst migraine I have ever had and no doubt it was stress related. I got through it and our Christmas party was a blast. For the first time we had a photo booth from <a href="http://www.jumpinbashflash.com/" target="_blank">Knoxville Photo Booth</a> and that was a lot of fun! Here is a sample of our pics.. Super cute! </span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk5WIKWtn6cYC4KnKqekB1qXUnrzPIbos8HFAzGVzrIz_dWbNUX7BBf2FNFmD6OyrvXzqDutQ_B8Hhu-WpxSgzw2uc1XGXAInxFKYuMT0mdtPIaz0nVDJYlPjnR0v491XyOgsAiIdvmoVG/s1600/print_0+%25282%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk5WIKWtn6cYC4KnKqekB1qXUnrzPIbos8HFAzGVzrIz_dWbNUX7BBf2FNFmD6OyrvXzqDutQ_B8Hhu-WpxSgzw2uc1XGXAInxFKYuMT0mdtPIaz0nVDJYlPjnR0v491XyOgsAiIdvmoVG/s1600/print_0+%25282%2529.jpg" height="320" width="214" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBVsVCRr1bS_wsGeK44MfpSkhN1pSZaC-m-vHun-MdZCDKOJ-YxAlkf4IkIXyieOMl9sO3RpO8b9HwzpAJTZIc_evbP8j7zpXztgtBtEqjWpUJS74zXBuiV1yC5jhyphenhyphenbxaJzgmy2nTWArSp/s1600/print_0+%25281%2529.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBVsVCRr1bS_wsGeK44MfpSkhN1pSZaC-m-vHun-MdZCDKOJ-YxAlkf4IkIXyieOMl9sO3RpO8b9HwzpAJTZIc_evbP8j7zpXztgtBtEqjWpUJS74zXBuiV1yC5jhyphenhyphenbxaJzgmy2nTWArSp/s1600/print_0+%25281%2529.jpg" height="320" style="cursor: move;" width="214" /></a><br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">For Christmas Eve we had some friends over for Christmas brunch and it was great to catch up. Chris and I had our family's over for Christmas day lunch and as usual had a pretty good spread of food. Of course holiday's are always hard with out our dad's here but we know they are always with us. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Chris and I don't really lavish each other with gifts but he did get me get tickets to one of my favorite performers Edwin McCain. </span><br />
<br />
Hope your December was fun filled!<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636331528636346225.post-76244498195355388502013-11-04T15:57:00.000-08:002013-11-04T15:57:39.143-08:00November 4, 2013The last couple of months have been pretty normal. Work, home, repeat.<br />
<br />
We went camping over the summer to <a href="http://hotspringsnc.org/" target="_blank">Hot Springs</a> with some friends and the dogs (and humans) loved it. We hiked up to <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Max_Patch" target="_blank">Max Patch </a> and the views were absolutely breathtaking. In total we had 4 dogs and they loved the wide open spaces. We have been keeping Kooper for our good friend's but she is getting ready to be returned to them in a couple of weeks. I'm sure she is ready to be back with her real family although I'm not sure how Abby will react. They have been together since July 4th so I'm sure it will be an adjustment for both of them. <br />
<br />
Last week we went to New Orleans for J's 40th bday. Originally Chris wasn't going to go but I'm glad he was able to get the time off work. NOLA is not some place I would want to be by myself. Granted there was a big group but it's not the same. Here is a group shot of our Halloween costume. Yes, we went as the Care Bears. It was a lot of fun and somewhere out there we are probably on some else's FB since people were taking pictures of us the entire night. Side note that we actually did make these!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk3J17trVZwHCKh1W3dz9Hx2Kcvq4W95N0DdYYPj6rZjyPDsl0yp6SOYlKAlsKfFRcaEbWb4_LwNPpZR34VfulYcxq6KdkzxL8XFRMZXZiyybSB9nxjtx5TDn3DdjQrsY4KIhI-tXxbqpr/s1600/NOLA+2013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk3J17trVZwHCKh1W3dz9Hx2Kcvq4W95N0DdYYPj6rZjyPDsl0yp6SOYlKAlsKfFRcaEbWb4_LwNPpZR34VfulYcxq6KdkzxL8XFRMZXZiyybSB9nxjtx5TDn3DdjQrsY4KIhI-tXxbqpr/s320/NOLA+2013.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
During the days we recouped and ate some fantastic food. My favorite being a dish from <a href="http://www.palacecafe.com/" target="_blank">Palace Cafe.</a> The specific pork dish that I got reminded me of dad's home cooking and nothing has come close to that. On top of that Chris and I split a piece of Crabcake cheescake. It was to die for!<br />
<br />
We also hung around Jackson Square and saw some really good artwork and a piece. I wish we had bought more so maybe next time. Here is a pic on the grounds of the church on Jackson Square.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_o6QqRRNAa7V0VA8mP8_xoBn-6uuzboH8p0N8JXul1E67GGUcN72FzoY-SHAieVRHYht4ugpxlmZPjMQqh_wwokgWMXqY_hRJsJPej60a5gdh81CP6z_vEf8DWFztgXPVhwPuCcWuQdS6/s1600/Nola+2013+Jackson+Square.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_o6QqRRNAa7V0VA8mP8_xoBn-6uuzboH8p0N8JXul1E67GGUcN72FzoY-SHAieVRHYht4ugpxlmZPjMQqh_wwokgWMXqY_hRJsJPej60a5gdh81CP6z_vEf8DWFztgXPVhwPuCcWuQdS6/s320/Nola+2013+Jackson+Square.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
The music in the city is fantastic and we found ourselves wishing we had more time to take it all in. Our last night there we did a haunted tour in the French Quarter and learned some interesting facts about the city. That was probably a highlight of the trip.<br />
<br />
In a couple of weeks we are heading to take Freddy back to Vanderbilt Children's Hospital for some more heart tests. Over the summer he had a couple of spells with his heart that put him in the hospital on a couple different occasions. Chris took him to Vanderbilt the first time in August and when they left his house there was a police escort! Loudon loves Freddy Ray! This time around the Dr. is wanting to try and re-create the episode under a controlled environment to see if they can target what exactly is causing them. We will be there overnight so hoping for a good outcome.<br />
<br />
Hard to believe but the holiday's are here again. I went shopping over the weekend and there was Christmas music playing! I guess I forgot that at Goody's we started Christmas music on November 1. <br />
I <i>really </i>don't miss working retail this time of year. <br />
<i><br /></i>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636331528636346225.post-40202892142744805282013-05-07T18:49:00.000-07:002013-05-07T18:49:09.957-07:00Time to Play Catch UPI have stepped away a few months from blogging because, well, nothing really interesting is going on that I felt was blog worthy. I just happened to be on my desktop looking through some random photos and realized that I really need to start to keep up with writing again. If anything to help me remember stuff since I'm notorious for forgetting the details (I blame my fall in 2007). <div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So for starters Chris and I are just about to wrap up our 60 day <a href="http://www.beachbody.com/product/fitness_programs/insanity.do" target="_blank">Insanity</a> challenge. We had to take a brief detour while Chris recovers from yet another eye surgery. This time to remove a cataract that was caused from his Retinal detachment surgery a couple years ago. As of today he says he's able to see things a little clearer so that's a plus. So like I said we are about to wrap this crazy workout up and it's been a great eye opener for us as well as a lifestyle change. We are way more conscience about what we are eating, how much we are eating and how often. I was worried at first that it was going to take a toll on our budget but it's not been that bad. I have really liked cooking new recipes (some not so great!) and I'm always looking for the next best, and easy, recipe. To date Chris has dropped about 15 and I'm down about 6. I can tell that I have lost several inches and my clothes are fitting better. When we finish this up we are going to start another Beach Body program - ChaLean. It's working with weights which will be a nice change of pace from Shaun T and his crazy Max Cardio Circuit! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
A is just a few weeks out from graduating high school and moving on to college land. I know she will do great! She has me looking up some photos of her and I together and it's amazing how quickly time has flown by. Amazing how a few short years ago we were still living under the same roof and I was braiding her hair for church. I love that kid! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Our Godson is almost 14 months and keeping his mom and dad very busy. We kept for a few hours last weekend and had fun reading and playing. He has learned a few signs so all of a sudden he stopped what he was doing and did the sign for "eat". I was pretty impressed.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Mother's day is this weekend so I think we are getting the mom's together for a cook out provided it doesn't rain. We have had a ton of rain lately and I'm about over it! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Well, I guess that's all for now. I'll write more when I can. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636331528636346225.post-26654291771274857942013-01-01T15:31:00.001-08:002013-01-01T15:31:38.893-08:00January 2013Welcome to 2013!<br />
<br />
I'm trying to pick up from the last time I posted. Let's see.. We closed on the house and moved to Lenoir City in June and love being on this side of town.<br />
<br />
I am still working at In10sity and the job is keeping me very busy. I am our representative for <a href="http://www.ewiknoxville.com/" target="_blank">EWI </a>and have enjoyed being a part of a great organization. I have met some great people and looking forward to getting more involved this year. <br />
<br />
We had a great Thanksgiving and Christmas and spent it with our good friends and family so that was a lot of fun. I have really enjoyed being in the kitchen and it was nice to cook for everyone. <br />
We spent NYE at Shaun and Jen's along with some other friends. Pretty low key but that's the way I like things. <br />
<br />
We had Abby a little birthday party a couple of weeks ago to celebrate her 5th birthday. We had our good friend Emily at <a href="http://www.facebook.com/Confectionistas" target="_blank">Confectionista's Kitchen</a> make the dog friendly cake and it was a hit. <br />
I have some pictures somewhere so I'll try to post those up.<br />
<br />
I don't really like making resolutions for the new years but I do have a few goals I would like to meet this year. One of them would be to get back on the FPU bandwagon and see a real difference in 6 months. I also want to pick up more crafty/kitchen related hobbies. I've recently become a Pinterest fan and have started a collection of ideas.<br />
<br />
Happy New Year! Here's to making 2013 the best one yet. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7636331528636346225.post-29957102960015395472012-05-08T19:10:00.002-07:002012-05-08T19:10:59.302-07:00May 2012Hi Ya'll!<br />
<br />
Well, here we are in May and I think spring completely forgot to stop by. It's been in the 80's but, I'm not complaining. I'll take hot weather over cold any day.<br />
<br />
We are still in Loudon and have a contract on a house down the road from work and about 15 minutes from his mom. We are still working out the details of an inspection so we are hoping we have some good news tomorrow. Keeping our fingers crossed!<br />
<br />
Did I mention that we are godparents? Our best friends had a sweet baby boy in January and asked us to be his godparents which I am so excited! We have already told them that we will be the "hippy" side of the family in his life and have plans to buy him his lifetime fishing license. Yep, you heard right. <br />
<br />
My niece recently got our license and *getting choked up* is driving. She bought her first car and I have said more prayers this week than I have in a long time! She getting ready to wrap up her junior year and is taking classes at Pellissippi and working at Food City. She's staying super busy but I'm glad she is getting to experience a lot of opportunities. <br />
<br />
So on another note I think I'm this close (imagine me holding my fingers close) to closing probate on my dad. Yes, almost 3 years in the making. I wrote out the last attorney bills last week so I'm just waiting to get the final word from my attorney. <br />
<br />
I have recently become obsessed with the <a href="http://tlc.howstuffworks.com/tv/long-island-medium" target="_blank">Long Island Medium</a>. While I'm not into fortune tellers or anything like that I think she has an extraordinary gift. Let me know your thoughts on what she does. People might think I've gone off the deep end.. that's ok..<br />
<br />
Here's to a great summer!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Mishhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09851717751355923793noreply@blogger.com0