tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-31597779935522684152024-03-05T08:12:18.142-08:00The Road Less TraveledTwo roads diverged in a wood
And I took the one less traveled by
And that has made all the difference
-Robert Frost-Liz Cuillardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14992335776695046313noreply@blogger.comBlogger457125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3159777993552268415.post-48594535927846325002017-05-08T20:57:00.002-07:002017-05-08T20:57:41.033-07:00Fitness Class EtiquetteWell guys grab something sturdy cause you're in for a shock. Since January I've been going to the gym. I know. That's like what, 4 months? Hold on, I'll show you a picture of my 6 pack. Hmm...keep holding for that one.<br />
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Anyhow, I've been taking a lot of fitness classes. Most are good and go smoothly. But some end up a little uncomfortable. I feel like there needs to be a lesson on gym class etiquette.<br />
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1. I'm in the back row. I always get there EARLY to get a spot in the back row. Do not come in 10 min late and create your own new back row behind me. Ooooh this really chaps my hide. You don't want to make a scene, I get it. You don't want to be seen. Believe me I really get that. That is why I plan ahead to secure a spot in the back. I suggest you do the same.<br />
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2. Please do not knock over my water! Or if you do, at least be kind enough to pick it up. Come on people. It's a basic lesson. Clean up, clean up, everybody everywhere...<br />
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3. If we are in a class that some clean up is required ( ie muscle) don't start cleaning up during the cool down! Maybe you are already all stretchy and don't need any more of that. But some of us do. So when you are running around us putting all your weights and other equipment away it's very distracting. And kinda rude to the instructor in my opinion.<br />
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I guess that kinda sounds like a rant. 99% of the classes I take are super fun ( or funnish, I hate you muscle) and go smoothly. But every once in a while I get a class and I wonder what people are thinking. Be courteous to your fellow gym goers! Liz Cuillardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14992335776695046313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3159777993552268415.post-18799514618894254612017-05-07T17:55:00.003-07:002017-05-07T17:55:51.821-07:00How I GrieveWell hi there! 2ish years later...we have a lot of catching up to do! But first, the reason I've returned to the blogging world:<br />
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I've missed it! I keep thinking about things that would be perfect blog entries. So here we are, up and running again. And hopefully not that once a year entry business. But no promises.<br />
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A very close relative of mine had a brush with death recently. Things were looking bleak. I'm lucky enough to have not lost anyone I'm really close to. I lost my Grandpa when I was 7. But that was a loooong time ago. So this hit me really hard. I LOVE this person, and am not ready to say goodbye to her.<br />
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I've always been sensitive. I've always been quick to cry, whether I'm happy or sad. I hate it. I hate that all my emotions seem to flow out my eyes. I'ts embarrassing and makes me seem weak. <br />
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But boy did I cry. And cry, and cry. I cried for this person. I cried for her husband who would be left a widower. I cried for everyone related to her, for the memories we've had and for the memories we haven't been able to make yet. The flood gates opened. It's hard to explain to my husband ( a non crier) why I'm this way.<br />
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When I grieve, I really GRIEVE. I feel for people as if I was in that position. When I see someone else crying, I have to fight off the tears. When someone else is sad or troubled, I have this need to help them. To make them feel better. It literally eats away at me until I do something about it. It can be exhausting but rewarding at the same time.<br />
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So while I wish I could control my tears a little more, I don't wish I was different. The world needs more compassionate people. So me and my waterproof eye makeup will just keep on doing what we've been doing. Hi, my name is Liz. And I care.Liz Cuillardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14992335776695046313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3159777993552268415.post-71239165153554236782015-07-14T09:52:00.000-07:002015-07-14T09:52:09.748-07:00It's EnoughApparently I'm going to just pop on here every few months! Does anyone really still blog anyway? Most of the blogs I once followed have been sitting in active for months and months and months. I guess I can't blame them considering I'm one of them. Anyhow, I had a thought the other day.<br />
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Is being just a Mom enough?<br />
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Let me back up here a little bit. I'm no longer working at Sprouts as Jimmy got a job doing medical transport ( yay!). So, I'm back to being a stay at home Mom. After alllllll my education. Alllllll my job experiences. Allllll my work I'm a Mom. Something that 1/2 the population can do. 16 year olds can do it for goodness sake. There is no interview process, and no necessary skill set required. Just, a Mom. That's where I am.<br />
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I feel the judgement. Though they might try to politely hide it, I hear it in their voices. Conversations tend to go like this:<br />
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<b>Nice not meaning to offend person</b>: Didn't you go to hair school?<br />
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<b>Me:</b> Yep<br />
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<b>NNMOP</b> <b>( shortened for my convenience): </b>Are you working at a salon?<br />
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<b>Me:</b> Nope, I'm at home with my kids<br />
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<b>NNMOP:</b> Oh, that's great! ( underlying tone here: that's not great. Why did you bother going to hair school if you were just going to stay home and not do anything with it)<br />
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<b>Me:</b> Yeah, I really enjoy it most days ( depending on the day, this is an absolute fabrication. But I have to say this to make myself feel better about my choice. To make it seem like this is the choice I really wanted).<br />
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You could modify this interaction and sub the word college in for hair school and end up with about the same result.<br />
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If you were to ask Brynlee what she wants to be when she grows up, she will tell you a Mom. At first this horrified me. "Just a Mom?!" I thought. "She can be anything. Doctor, lawyer, architect, peace corp worker, president. Whatever. She can do it all! Isn't she setting the bar a little low here?"<br />
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This bothered me for quite a while. But then as I went to my first PTA meeting I looked over the long list of things that I GET to be involved in. Things that I GET to be present for. I GET to have an active role in rearing my children. Monetarily can I afford to be a stay at home Mom? No, not really. Not at all actually. But I can't afford to not be present while my kids grow up either.<br />
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I've left my kids with strangers, worked all day and rushed home to be just in time to tuck them in- the entire day gone and all I had to show for it was a measly pay check ( not nearly worth the effort I put into earning it) and a longing for the time I missed with my family.<br />
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I've realized that even though my current job requires no training, fancy degrees or credentials it is the MOST important job I'll ever have. And while it's not my dream job every day ( and can be quite a nightmare some days) it is a dream. It's a dream that I get a front row seat to watch my children grow.<br />
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I might feel pangs of jealousy as I see my former school mates advancing their careers in ways I never thought possible. Because I want to be there. I want to use the skills I've so painstakingly acquired. But there is a time and a season, and for me it's not right now. For me it's my time to be a super fun awesome Mom.<br />
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For me, for right now being a Mom is enough.Liz Cuillardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14992335776695046313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3159777993552268415.post-5907542044230820202015-03-02T12:37:00.002-08:002015-03-02T12:37:59.818-08:00The Best YouSooooo....hey there!<br />
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I'm back! For now anyway. Not much has happened since I last wrote 4 months ago. Just kidding! Lots has happened!<br />
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But, rather than re cap all that I feel like discussing something I keep thinking about. Body image. Yes, body image. I know I've discussed this in the past, but it keeps popping up.<br />
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There's been a movement to boycott Carls Jr. I love their food. I really do. But I do find their commercials offensive. And stupid. But isn't it their right to air offensive stupid commercials? You know, the whole I don't agree with what you are saying, but I agree with your right to say it? If I was going to boycott everything I found offensive there would be a lot.<br />
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I get my bras from Victoria's secret, yet I find their commercials dumb. And lets not get started on the "fashion shows"... Should I stop buying bras from there?<br />
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Sports Illustrated and their whole "swimsuit issue". So dumb. Who looks like that? Really. Should I stop reading that magazine?<br />
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To be completely honest, what bothers me the most about these things is where is the equality? Carls Jr, where are your commercials with hot guys eating cheese burgers with no shirt? Why isn't there an annual woman's magazine that comes out with a men's swimsuit issue? I wouldn't buy it ( which is maybe the root of why they don't come out with it). I don't need to stare at pictures of attractive men. What does that accomplish? But where is the equality here?<br />
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When it comes down to it, we just aren't equal when it comes to body image. Women are seen as possessions. To be stared at, drooled over and gawked at. Men are not ( for the most part, there are exceptions to every rule. ie Magic Mike). I know there are some men with body image issues. I know you are out there men. But there are not nearly as many of you as there are us. Probably because we compare ourselves to the girls on the Carls Jr commercial that you watch...you don't have a commercial to compare yourself to.<br />
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So, besides boycotting these places and things, what can I do about it? I can be at peace with myself. I'm never going to look like a Victoria's secret model. 99% of us won't. No, it's not fair that we are expected to. But to expect to look like that is NOT realistic. If you are with a guy who expects you to look like that, you need a new guy. Not a new body. Try to be the best YOU you can be. You with love handles, muffin top and a saggy bum ( Ok, that's all me, but you get the idea). At least that is what I'm doing. I work out sometimes. I eat right sometimes. I feel pretty sometimes ( sometimes, not so pretty). But I'm working on it. And I'm definitely not using a Carls Jr add as inspiration!<br />
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<br />Liz Cuillardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14992335776695046313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3159777993552268415.post-63471976174357811272014-10-27T11:02:00.001-07:002014-10-27T11:02:29.339-07:00These DaysHello readers! Are there any of you left? After another month with no posts, I don't blame you for leaving me. Here's what's been going on these days:<div>
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Liz- I got a job! And here is the ironic part- It's a job at the place where I had to take the test I was complaining about in my last post! How funny is that. When they called me for an interview I couldn't believe it. I'll be working at Sprouts. It's like a Trader Joe's type place. Is it hair? No. However they are willing to work around my very difficult availability. And the pay is decent so I'm thankful for it. Once again I fought the no Sundays battle and won. Victory is mine! I'll be slowing down my baking a bit. But still plan on trying to bake once a week or so. </div>
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Jimmy- is chugging along in school. He will kill me for writing this, but his chemistry class was giving him a hard time. He took chemistry 1 like 4 years ago, and is now taking chemistry 2. Yeah....anyhow he has worked his butt off ( seriously, studying all hours of the night. Coming to bed at 4am to wake up at 6am) but on his last test he got 110 out of 100 ( there were some extra credit questions). I'm so proud of him and all the hard work he has put in.</div>
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Brynlee- Ah, Brynlee. In case we aren't facebook friends and you missed it, we had a hair cutting incident. It was really bad. Hairgate is what I call it. She butchered the front of her hair- as seen below. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAeMzBvDDW_MJPrNqufqoV9bQro4LN7oiiERwZnVpZyo5-JCt97n1z_Bdpehsrs8JfVtMsNPW9aMHKWroHfYKsqKstVM8Co6VYDT6tH2YX6cEQ3p_XMyPFww-1dkk560_0HRGJtsDTadU/s1600/hair+gate+2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAeMzBvDDW_MJPrNqufqoV9bQro4LN7oiiERwZnVpZyo5-JCt97n1z_Bdpehsrs8JfVtMsNPW9aMHKWroHfYKsqKstVM8Co6VYDT6tH2YX6cEQ3p_XMyPFww-1dkk560_0HRGJtsDTadU/s1600/hair+gate+2014.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Yeah. Mom was not pleased. Mom was quite mad- and might of cried LOL. However, after some styling we have this:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghIuRA6BtK7la-fptXmyssTT7uExal6vxNtqqzqT_-8mZ14W3jNGQaUQ1C46_O8jxm2t1p5tHiMm5c5IfEHLyN8iDhBBH2f6N-54CtRMsztr-IzpUc4sa1pyIwxRiUd3e0CoKVXXhMy94/s1600/styled+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEghIuRA6BtK7la-fptXmyssTT7uExal6vxNtqqzqT_-8mZ14W3jNGQaUQ1C46_O8jxm2t1p5tHiMm5c5IfEHLyN8iDhBBH2f6N-54CtRMsztr-IzpUc4sa1pyIwxRiUd3e0CoKVXXhMy94/s1600/styled+1.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4EeBQa8bmc2ruPWVqkvZ29PuP7rpUfINgVws-4TITptpfUDdaTGUhHzH_75ESMlGX8webCsm6HEN7VPYOFQXNHEllMBj9Zb9DzcN4m-vLyO45jqrDgsBniWpDj6bMzRLX_5HGMUcDGoo/s1600/styled+3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4EeBQa8bmc2ruPWVqkvZ29PuP7rpUfINgVws-4TITptpfUDdaTGUhHzH_75ESMlGX8webCsm6HEN7VPYOFQXNHEllMBj9Zb9DzcN4m-vLyO45jqrDgsBniWpDj6bMzRLX_5HGMUcDGoo/s1600/styled+3.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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To be 100% honest, I actually really like the length on her.She looks really cute with short hair. The front is still a train wreck and requires lots of hairspray and bobby pins to keep it back. But it could've been worse I suppose. At least she didn't cut it down to scalp.</div>
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Claire: Is getting bigger and bigger. She isn't crawling- but rolls to where ever she wants to go. We need to start baby proofing ASAP. She is eating baby food now. She loves peas ( seriously, who loves peas? I gag while I feed them to her!) and sweet potatoes. She's kinda iffy about carrots and mixed vegetables. She is still napping 2 times per day, but I see that ending soon. She is super curious, and super cute :)</div>
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I'm super excited about Halloween- I loved handing out candy last year. Seeing all the little kids on parade was so much fun! I ran out of candy really fast so I bought extra this year. Hopefully it will last me longer!</div>
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Liz Cuillardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14992335776695046313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3159777993552268415.post-89184811963229488082014-09-22T12:28:00.004-07:002014-09-22T12:28:56.793-07:00On the HuntHere we are again, job hunting I go!<br />
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For those of you haven't applied for a job in a long time you are really missing out! It's oodles of fun out there these days.<br />
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This is totally going to date me-but you guys all know I'm 30 so who cares. Remember when you actually went into a place to apply for a job? When you filled out a paper application, and handed it to a real live human being? Then, you waited patiently by your corded phone to hear back. Hopefully. Maybe.<br />
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Those where the days. Oh they are long gone now. Now, it's all online. Which is great if you are lazy. I mean I applied a ton of place this morning, and I'm still in my PJ's. But the personal touch is gone. So now my application will shoot into a pile of 10000000 others probably never to be seen again. Add in my availability and it will take an act of God to get me hired. And those are just the ones that don't have a crazy test with them.<br />
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Yes, a crazy test. If you want to work at Target ( Yes, I've applied there in recent years) you have to take a test. Not just any test. A serious test. I just applied at a grocery store type place. I consider myself fairly intelligent- and then I took the test. Vocabulary questions ( like words you get on the game Baulderdash, no joke), math word problems, impossible scenarios where you have no idea what kind of answer they want. These are all tests for people to get jobs that pay minimum wage. Seriously. I wish I was joking. Apparently in order to ring up groceries I need to know which word doesn't belong with the other 4 words. Who knew being a grocery clerk was so intense? And you get 10 min to do all this....which runs out quickly let me tell you. I'm not expecting a call back from that place.<br />
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I went through all this when I was in hair school. I literally applied EVERYWHERE. I was rejected by pretty much everywhere. It's a bad day when you can't even get a job at Babies R Us. I went though this when I first moved here ( you remember the Supercuts saga). And now here we are again. I forsee a lot more rejection in my future. But hopefully as a door is closing a window will open and I'll find a fit somewhere. Until then I'm feeling humbled. And on the hunt.Liz Cuillardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14992335776695046313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3159777993552268415.post-68346702154159402322014-09-16T18:34:00.001-07:002014-09-16T18:34:31.814-07:00How Did I Get Here?You know those things you see people do ( especially parents) that are so completely obnoxious you want to die? You think to yourself, I'll never do that. Or even better, I'll never let my kids do that? Yeah. I said that too at one point. The tune I'm singing is a little different now.<br />
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When I waitressed at Chili's we had this family that would come in. NO ONE wanted them. They had 2 little kids that were terrible. They would tear about the table and make the biggest mess you've ever seen. Dumped out salt and pepper, sugar everywhere, ketchup everywhere. Food and trash all over the floor. And they left the crappiest tip-totally not worth the 1 hour you spent after they left attempting to put the table back together.<br />
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Well I haven't gotten that bad- I still work really hard to make sure my kid doesn't destroy tables at restaurants ( when we go, which is never LOL). But as I walked through Walmart distractedly talking on my phone as Brynlee ran a muck up and down the aisles I had a moment. What was I doing? I HATE people who talk on their phone all the time- sorry if this is you. But I can't hang. People who are on their phone in line at the store, people who are on their phone in drive thrus. Maybe it comes from being a cashier and being completely ignored by people who where on their phones while I rang them up. I just think it's rude. And irritating. I really don't want to hear your loud one sided conversation while I wait in line. I really don't. Anyway you could wait like 3 min and talk loudly in your car ( because that is actually legal here)? Thanks!<br />
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Yet here I was. One of those people. Brynlee was wreaking havoc and instead of trying to corral her in I thought, "hey this is Walmart. If you can't run a muck here, where can you run a muck?". I think everyone thinks that-which is why Walmart is the way it is! I've gotten to the point where I expect my kid to make a huge mess, expect her to say rude things to people and expect her to not listen. How did this happen? I've become desensitized. Maybe I'm tired ( ok, no maybe about it). Maybe I've given up the little stuff. Maybe I realized kids don't act like they do in TV shows. You know, how the characters have kids who play quietly by them selves and never make a mess and do exactly what they are told. Turns out real kids aren't actually like that! Reba and Friends/, you sold me a lie!<br />
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Either way, I hate the parent I've become. Just because it's hard doesn't mean I can just give up on disciplining my child and let her go wild. Hoping it's just a phase that will pass is not a good parenting style. Give me a few months and I may be as bad as that dreaded family who came into Chilis! That is assuming we actually go out to eat again. I'm not sure how I got here. But I can't stay here. Next time I go to Walmart my child will not run wild up and down the aisles. Even if I have to leash her to me ( which by the way I was totally against until I had kids, LOL).Liz Cuillardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14992335776695046313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3159777993552268415.post-40840443933806951142014-08-28T17:49:00.000-07:002014-08-28T17:49:00.507-07:00NeglectedOh poor blog. I've neglected you. For a month! Poor thing. I've been busy, but not THAT busy. I've been lazy more like it. And really, how much is there to blog about when you are a stay at home Mom? So what's been up with us you ask? Let me fill you in:<br />
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<b>Jimmy: </b>Probably the biggest news here. Jimmy is......going back to school. Like really going back. Bank of America cut his overtime and was automating the process he does. We really felt like we were being nudged...and then shoved in a different direction as bills couldn't be paid. He was on a sinking ship and it was either time to get off or go down with it. So we are taking a leap. Is it scary. Yes. Do I cry sometimes. Oh yeah. BUT if it all works out it will pay off big time. So, how are we going to live you ask? Loans, grants, prayers and bread. Not necessarily in that order. Which leads to my update...<br />
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<b>Liz: </b>I can sum up what I've been doing in one word. BREAD. Bread all over. Baking it. Eating it. Breathing it. My little bread business has blossomed into more than I ever expected. I'm not sure how long I can keep this bread train going, but I'm going to keep riding until it stops ( AKA the new year, when no one eats anything but salads, LOL)<br />
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<b>Brynlee:</b> Has started preschool again. Hallelujah! She's happy, I'm happy. We're all happy about that. This Brynlee's last year of preschool, and I couldn't be happier about where she is academically. Her teacher is amazing and whips those kids into shape. I have no doubt Brynlee will be super ready for kindergarten next year. Unfortunately Brynlee's night time antics continue. The other night I woke up to find paint ( yes, paint) in a Tupperware container by the trash. I found paint in my sink. I found my craft cupboard torn apart. And I found Brynlee passed out on my couch. Apparently she though the middle of the night was a great time to try to make me a hand print...and have a Dr Pepper because she had opened one of those. Oh boy...<br />
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<b>Claire:</b> is almost 6 months! She is rolling all over. She gets stuck under the coffee table all the time, poor thing. I can't help but laugh when I see little legs stick out from under there. She is getting bigger and bigger. And unfortunately so is her baby tude. Not such a fan of the swing anymore these days. She is happiest in her bouncer, or just rolling around on the ground. She loves being outside...but Arizona in August is not meant for the outdoors. We are looking forward to cooler weather for sure. Come on 90's!<br />
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<b>Mitzie:</b> is still a cat. LOL. She sleeps like 20 hours a day.I'm kind of jealous of her sometimes. We got Mitzie a new brush, the "furminator" and good grief does it take off her fur! It almost works too well because whenever I brush her fur is everywhere and it freaks me out!<br />
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So, until next time. Hopefully it won't be another month before I post!Liz Cuillardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14992335776695046313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3159777993552268415.post-11756803308909885952014-07-24T11:46:00.001-07:002014-07-24T11:46:17.000-07:00Something Sexy About the RainI guess it took me moving to the desert to really appreciate rain. I've always hated it. Hated it! I'll blame my hair. Rain and my hair do not mix. Humidity and my hair do not mix.<br />
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So growing up rain meant I was going to have a giant fro. Great. And it's usually cold and kind of miserable.<br />
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But here in the desert it's different. We get very little rain here, but when we do 95% of it is during the summer. Monsoons is what they are called. It gets really hot ( as if it wasn't already, LOL), then super windy and then boom. Down pour like no other. It's not the best if you are stuck somewhere because they are crazy to drive through. But there's something magical about warm rain. And it's an nice change of pace from the sunny skies we have allll year long. I know, boo hooo too much sun right? But it does get kind of monotonous sometimes. So when we have anything other than rain it's really exciting.<br />
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It comes on super quick, and then usually leaves just as fast. But it's fun while it lasts. A few weeks ago Brynlee and I went to go swimming the day after a monsoon. The pool man was cleaning the pool but he said it was OK to go in. So we were swimming around when the pool man fishes out a dead lizard right next to me. Ew. I guess it was like swimming in the ocean? Nasty. Monsoons wash all sorts of goodies into your yard. And your pool. And really make your car dirty like nothing else can. But besides that there sure is something sexy about the rain!Liz Cuillardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14992335776695046313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3159777993552268415.post-43600246463385313652014-07-14T16:10:00.000-07:002014-07-14T16:10:24.465-07:00Doctor DoomClaire had her 4 month old check up today. I was scheduling Claire's appointments for when Brynlee was in preschool but since it's summer off we all went. I swear Dr's offices must get their kicks from making people with young kids wait. You'd think they would want us out of there ASAP as a certain 4 year old was running a muck. But nope. We waited. And waited. Finally they called us back to the room, where we proceeded to wait some more.<br />
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Brynlee proceeded to wreak havoc on that room as Claire got fussier and fussier. I would have pacified her with her pacifier but that didn't make it into the car apparently. The Dr finally came in. Claire looks, average. Average I said? She has rolls on her rolls! But nope, 50th percentile for height and weight. The best part is, her lumpy head is looking much better! Pretty sure no helmet will be needed, yay! Although then it was time for shots. The Dr left and we waited for the nurse. And waited, and waited. I kept popping out of the office to make sure they didn't forget about us in there. I went to feed Claire and realized I managed to bring a bottle but no formula. I did not do a great job of packing the diaper bag apparently. Why did I give up breastfeeding again? Nothing like giving shots to an already grumpy baby. Brynlee continued to touch everything possible and speak at a loud volume only appropriate for outdoor sporting events. Claire fussed and fussed. I wanted to pull my hair out of my head. I was just about to say peace out, we'll come back later when the nurse arrived.<br />
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4 shots in chunky thighs later, I drug my 2 crying kids ( Brynlee was now crying because she fell off the stool I told her to stay off in the first place) out to the 100 degree car. I needed a really really really BIG diet coke. And a lobotomy. And a hysterectomy.<br />
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But we made it out to the car in 1 piece. I thought about how hard this was with just 2 kids...I picture my mother in law with 7 and the image is laughable. I decided Brynlee will not be attending any more dr appts unless they are for her. I'll find a neighbor or someone to watch her. I'll pay someone to watch her to not have to experience that again. Some kids sit quietly and read a book or play with a toy. But that is not my child. I told Jimmy what happened and his reaction was " So Brynlee was acting normally". Yep, pretty much. I'm not sure why I expected any different.Liz Cuillardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14992335776695046313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3159777993552268415.post-65731232887921052972014-07-11T10:27:00.001-07:002014-07-11T10:27:46.513-07:00Product of My RaiseBrynlee likes pink. Maybe like isn't a strong enough word, obsessed is more like it. If it's pink, she wants it. I have to coerce her into any clothing color besides pink. She wants pink ice cream and pink candy, even though she always hates the flavor and ends up wanting to eat mine!<br />
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I think pink is OK. It's fine, but it's not my favorite color by far. I don't have a ton of pink stuff and I don't wear it very often. But like most little girls, my daughter loves it. Why? Why does she like pink so much? Is it because she has been surrounded by it since day 1? Toys, clothes, whatever. If you have a girl they have pink stuff because that is what the stores make. Pink for girls.<br />
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I started thinking the other day. Does she link pink because it's ingrained in her head to like it? If I'd never bought her a pink thing, would she still love it? I guess we'll never know.<br />
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I grew up with a Dad who likes two main sports. Baseball and football. He'll watch other sports on occasion, but those are his two. Number one being baseball.<br />
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I'm married to a man who likes two main sports. Baseball and football. He'll watch other sports on occasion, but those are his two. Number one being football.<br />
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I like two main sports. Baseball and football. I'll watch other sports on occasion,but those are my two.<br />
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See a trend here? Basketball, eh. I've never been a huge fan. But I wasn't raised with people who were huge fans. If I didn't' grow up in the house I did, would I even care about baseball?<br />
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OBVIOUSLY we are our own people. I wasn't raised Mormon, but now I am. I make my own decisions in my life and that's that. But the older I get the more I find how I was raised coming into play. I do things my Mom does, I say things my Mom did.<br />
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I really am product of my raise. It's kind of scary sometimes. Because that means my kids will be a product of their raise. That's a lot of pressure on me to raise some great people!<br />
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Brynlee still talks about the post office incident ( refer to the postal meltdown post). Apparently I'm never going to live down the time I lost my cool and kicked the package while sobbing outside the post office. I'm sure Brynlee will still talk about it 20 years from now. I say things, Brynlee says things. I do things, Brynlee does things. I am being watched and copied. I'm not sure I'm such a great person to copy most of the time. I better step up my game!<br />
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<br />Liz Cuillardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14992335776695046313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3159777993552268415.post-3202347481622399582014-07-02T13:23:00.001-07:002014-07-02T15:14:20.499-07:00The Key to HapinessEureka! I've found it. Yep, at the ripe age of 30 I've found what truly makes me happy. How lucky am I right? Some people go through their whole lives not ever finding what really makes them happy.<br />
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So here it is... are you ready...serving others! Yes!<br />
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Let me back up here for a second. If there is one thing we LDS people know how to do is help people. If it needs to be cleaned, we'll clean it. If it needs to be baked, we'll bake it. If it needs to be moved, we'll move it! Happily ( usually, sometimes not so happily).<br />
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When I first started going to the LDS church I remember one particular Saturday we were participating in a service project. We spent the whole day cleaning out a wash. Kids, adults, teenagers. All working together to clean up public space. Was I super happy about it then...no. In fact I remember several service projects where a certain friend and I did not participate ( I won't name her, she would be mortified). We actually sat around doing nothing while everyone else worked. Not my proudest moment. Ah what are the teenage years if nothing but one mistake after another right? Anyhow in recent years I've benefited from serving others and being served.<br />
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In all the times we've moved we've never had to hire movers. Including last September when we moved in 115 degree weather...church members came and helped! It's crazy. When we had Claire, church members brought us meals for 4 days. And they were good meals! It was such a relief with a new baby to not have to worry about cooking dinner.<br />
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When Brynlee was in the hospital with spinal meningitis church members drove 45 min to bring us dinner, to the hospital! So awesome. I'm still in shock that people did that.<br />
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I have a very special Aunt and Uncle who shower my family with presents. Clothes and goodies for everybody. It's like she's Santa Clause. Whenever I see a package from her ( which happens often) it warms my heart.<br />
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Being on the receiving end of service is such a great feeling. Almost as great as being on the giving end!<br />
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A lady in my ward gave birth to a still born baby last month. This hit me particularly hard as she and I were pregnant at the same time ( me with Claire). I signed up to work at a luncheon for the family and to provide a dish. As sad as the situation was, I felt incredible. That's when I realized it. Helping others makes me feel helpful in a world filled with horrible things that are out of my control. I can't cure cancer, or end hunger or end poverty. But I can do a little bit to help people that are suffering from these things.<br />
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Last weekend I was asked to participate in a benefit sale to help a neighbor. I've been selling bread to bring in a little extra money that we desperately need. It's actually going really well. Who knew, right? I was asked to bake bread for this cause and before I knew it I was agreeing to donate the money from my sales for that day. I got home wondering how that happened. I basically agreed to donate $100 that I don't have and could really use... what was I thinking? My attitude at times was not great I admit. But after I did it I felt so amazing! My neighbor was extremely shocked, and grateful. I realized if we wait until we have surplus to give, we might never give. At this point I'm thinking I might never have a surplus. I'm not sure it's in the cards for me. But if I kept waiting then I'd be missing out on these great feelings of self worth I get when I serve others.<br />
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Now it's like I'm completely addicted. Donating bread to manicurist who agreed to give a girl with cancer a manicure over there, donating bread to be auctioned off for a fund raiser for the phoenix children's hospital over there. If I see an opportunity I'm all over it like white on rice. I'm sacrificing time. I'm losing money. And I feel awesome! Try it people. I'm telling you, giving is not just for the holiday season. Give all year, be happy all year! Now who else can I give something to...Liz Cuillardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14992335776695046313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3159777993552268415.post-27899071711843242222014-06-19T14:18:00.001-07:002014-06-19T14:18:39.152-07:00And the Little One SaidWe have a roller! Not an expert roller, but a back to front roller. Claire is on the move, and I got to witness it. I also got to see her first smile and here her laugh for the first time. Lucky me, perk of being a stay at home Mom.<br />
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Unfortunately now Claire is following in the foot steps of her big sister. She rolls from her back to her front, gets stuck, gets angry and yells for help. When I put her on the floor, leave the room and hear her yelling I know the exact position I'm going to find her in. Beached like a little whale.<br />
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It's exciting, yet shocking. Wasn't she just a newborn? Wasn't I just pregnant? Wasn't I just 20? Time is zooming by and I have no choice but to enjoy the ride.<br />
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Since it's thankful Thursday today I'm thankful for my hair. Yes my nesty, crazy messy hair. We have a love hate relationship but I'm thankful for it all the same. Crazy hair is better than no hair at all right?Liz Cuillardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14992335776695046313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3159777993552268415.post-17439634557444129842014-06-10T11:18:00.000-07:002014-06-10T11:18:28.895-07:00A Diet That WorksHello 120's!!!!!!!!<br />
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No not tempature. At least not yet anyway. Weight! I have 4 ish pounds to lose until I'm at my pre baby weight. Before you roll your eyes, and think about how lucky I am that most of my weight just "melted" off let me tell you. I've worked REALLY hard to get to this point. Ask my husband, he'll tell you how grouchy I've been, LOL.<br />
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No seriously, I've been doing zumba but I've been following the military diet which has worked really well for me.<br />
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I can't do juice diets and all that jazz. I can't cut out carbs or sugars. I just can't. I feel deprived and then I get frustrated. But with this diet you don't have to cut out a complete food group to lose weight.<br />
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Do this for 3 days, eat sensibly the other 3 days and have one day where you can cheat to your hearts content. That is what has worked for me. Looking at this you are probably wondering how an egg and a piece of toast can keep you full, but it did for the most part. And I usually feel satisfied after every meal. </div>
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I realized how much snacking became a habit when I was pregnant. I think half of the time I want to snack just because I feel like I should, not because I'm hungry.</div>
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Don't get me wrong, you won't see me in a bikini anytime soon. Just because my weight is almost where it was DOES not mean the consistency of what is there is like it used to be. There is a squish to my gut that only 9 months of baby growing can bring. I have a lot of work ahead of me in the exercise dept. But, it's a step in the right direction.</div>
<br />Liz Cuillardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14992335776695046313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3159777993552268415.post-71020197604345260972014-06-03T16:14:00.002-07:002014-06-03T16:14:23.775-07:00Ways my Child is Like my CatBeing that Brynlee is my first child, all of her behaviors are new to me. I'm not sure if these are behaviors all kids exhibit at some point or if I'm just lucky. But as we muddle through the beginning of what will probably be the hardest summer to date I can't help but draw a few parallels between my child and my cat<br />
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1. Underfoot, always. I swear Brynlee/ Mitzie will anticipate what room I'm going into and purposely run into it in front of me. Why? Why I ask? It's like that irritating person in the aisle at the grocery store going painstakingly slow. They are taking up the whole walk way and you are stuck behind them.<br />
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2. Chair thief. If Brynlee sees me going to sit down somewhere, she will dart into the chair before me, on purpose.<br />
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3. It seems like basic functions ( like getting her own snack) or using the bathroom properly have evaded her.<br />
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4. The idea of pesonal space is nill. If I do actually make it to my seat before she tries to steal it, she will wedge her little body right in next to me. I have to lock the door behind be if I want to go to the bathroom alone. I can't even walk into my closet without company from kid or cat.<br />
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I know, I know. These are all desperate attempts to get attention ( i'm irritated, not stupid). But I'm not sure I have that much more attention to give. I'd like to put myself in a hamster ball, just to get a few feet of space.<br />
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In case you hadn't guessed this day has been a bit rough. It could be the golf ball sized hole I found in my new favorite throw blanket at the hands of the 4 year old captain destructor. Or maybe it's the baby vomit that I got to clean up from the swing, and several other places. Or possibly it's the neighborhood trip to the river that I wasn't invited to. In their defense I never could have gone. Where are you supposed to put a 3 month old while you are floating down a river all day? Insert point about this shaping up to be one tough summer. Let's not mention the girls night that I put together tonight that I'm not longer attending.<br />
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In short this day sucked. At least in 2 more hours I get to turn my AC back on and it won't be 85 degrees in my house anymore. Ah the woes of a stay at home Mom.Liz Cuillardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14992335776695046313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3159777993552268415.post-73404841720684655852014-06-02T06:55:00.001-07:002014-06-02T06:55:58.608-07:00Facebook Photos, a bit of PerspectiveThese pages on facebook where people in the local community buy and sell things are really big out here. Maybe they were big in Simi and I was just unaware. But they are all over the place here.<br />
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I've bought and sold a fair amount of stuff on these sites. I've gotten some really good deals, and have been happy with all of my purchases so far. One thing that never ceases to amaze me is how different people actually look in person than in their facebook photos. Like most of the time you wouldn't even know it was the same person.</div>
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I get trying to put your best picture on the internet, totally. You won't see me posting pictures of myself with double chins or closed eyes ( and there is plenty of both, believe you me). But I like to think that my profile picture looks like me at least, maybe just from a good angle. :)</div>
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It got me thinking about how easy it is to look at people on facebook and think they have the perfect life. And maybe they do. But maybe they don't. Maybe we are just seeing them put their best foot forward. Maybe their lives are like every other normal person on this planet filled with peaks and valleys and ups and downs.<br />
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We had a great lesson in church today about mothers. One girl commented about how her house is never clean and it makes her feel like a failure sometimes as a stay at home mom. I understand where she is coming from. For some reason even though we spend all day chasing kids around keeping a clean house feels like something we should be able to do and it's really tough! Especially since we have tiny people following us around messing up everything we've just cleaned. However a lady in her mid 70's also commented. She said that her husband used to use their kitchen table as his office. His stuff was all over and it drove her crazy. He has since passed away, and her kitchen table is now clean. What she wouldn't give to have it be a mess again.<br />
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The point is there will be a day when I will look around at my toy free house and miss the days when it was cluttered with kid stuff everywhere. So I'm going to work a little harder to not be bothered by the constant clutter and enjoy it.<br />
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My profile picture is not perfect on facebook. My life isn't perfect either. And my house looks like a toddler and baby had a party and caused a toy explosion everywhere. But that's ok. I'm going to work a little harder on relaxing and enjoying these imperfect moments before they pass me by.</div>
Liz Cuillardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14992335776695046313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3159777993552268415.post-44014236130327861922014-05-27T21:27:00.000-07:002014-05-27T21:27:50.112-07:00A Birthday and a DateSomeone turned 4! Where oh where has the time gone? I think about how different my life was 4 years ago. How different I was 4 years ago. Then I think about how different things will be 4 years from now...when I'm gulp...34? Ugh.<br />
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Here are some highlights from the birthday girl's big day:<br />
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<span style="text-align: start;">Riley came over and played for a little while. The girls enjoyed a tea party with watermelon and graham crackers.</span></div>
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Tea set courtesy of my Aunt Lynne. I don't even know why we bother putting that back in the box, it gets used everyday multiple times a day!</div>
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Brynlee's new shirt from her "aunt" Carla. It's pink so of course she LOVED it and had to put it on right away</div>
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Aww some sister love! Can't wait to watch these two grow together. </div>
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On Saturday Jimmy and I had a babysitter. I'm not comfortable leaving Claire with a 16 year old quite yet, so we took Claire with us and off we went. But where did we go? Hmm. Turns out it's hard to figure out something to do when you are short on funds but have a baby and have 4 hours of time. We ate dinner, and that took up all of like 30 min. So, I pulled out an old pastime of mine and Audreys. We hit up the Goodwill. </div>
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Our mission, should we choose to accept it: Find the ugliest things possible. Let's just say mission accomplished.</div>
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Jimmy of course had to check out the tie rack and dig for treasure, aka uglier than sin ties.</div>
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Disc man anyone? I could't believe the old stuff they had there. Corded home phones, tape players. Even a bunch of cameras that actually take film. It was like walking into a time capsule.</div>
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Despite our odd way to spend a Saturday night, Claire seemed to enjoy it.</div>
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I think I won right here. Check out this jacket. Coming at you straight from the 80's ( or perhaps early 90's?). Complete with shoulder pads and all. </div>
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We did end up buying a new copy of the Little Mermaid for Brynlee since she broke the one she has. And I bought a book. Our grand total was $3.00. So was it the most ideal way to spend a date night? No, not exactly. But we did have some fun. And some good laughs.</div>
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<br />Liz Cuillardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14992335776695046313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3159777993552268415.post-38629997389305403652014-05-15T10:18:00.000-07:002014-05-15T10:18:00.494-07:00Thankful ThursdayHey it's Thursday! And I'm thankful! Today, I'm thankful for my car. Oh Sophia. You've done me so proud. Bless that car's heart it is OLD. 12 years to be exact. And she is tired. Moving to Arizona has really aged her, and she is looking her years these days. We are currently using our garage as a workshop/storage, but I want to clear it out...ok have Jimmy clear it out ( I'm not meant for manual labor) so I can park in there during the summer. That'll give Sophia some rest from the blazing Arizona sun.<br />
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But, I'm thankful for my car none the less. It works. And that's all that I really need right now. Once we get rid of Jimmy's seemingly never ending car payment we can explore options of putting Sophia out to pasture. She has served her time. But she is in pretty decent shape all things considered and is still chugging along 12 years later. A lot of families have to survive with one car, which would be such a nightmare. So while she makes a funny noise sometimes when I start her, and the air conditioning is not the best ( which is really inconvenient right about now) I'm thankful for my car. Keep on dancing old gal, Mama loves you!Liz Cuillardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14992335776695046313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3159777993552268415.post-74077804686480526382014-05-14T13:30:00.001-07:002014-05-14T16:36:15.104-07:002 Months and CountingSomeone turned 2 months!<br />
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She is now 11.3 lbs. The Dr said she looks good...except for her lumpy head. Ugh. I keep trying to get her to lay on the other side but she is stubborn so looks like I'll have to take more drastic measures. Her Dr said at her 4 month check up if her head is still flattish on one side we'll discuss the helmet option. My mission: to not get to that point.<br />
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She got her first shots today...never my favorite. I was lucky that Jimmy took Brynlee to get her first shots so I didn't have to be there. I did have to watch Brynlee get multiple IV's and 2 spinal taps though so I think I paied my dues there. Claire did really well. I think it helps that she has chunky thighs. She was not to happy to be poked, but seemed fine a few minutes later.<br />
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As for me 2 months post postpartum I'm feeling pretty good. Still seem to cry at the drop of the hat. Unfortunately. Ready for that feature to go away. And I still have pregnancy brain. But other wise I'm doing well. I'm 8 ish lbs ( depends on what time of day I weigh myself, LOL) away from my pre pregnancy weight and am actually able to SQUEEZE myself into some of my bigger pre pregnancy jeans. I'm packed in there though, believe me. I started taking a Zumba class again- by myself. Looks like when it comes to Zumba I'm destined to be a lone rider. Which is OK with me, less people I know to look like a complete idiot in front of. :)<br />
<br />Liz Cuillardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14992335776695046313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3159777993552268415.post-42933740470578730612014-05-13T08:06:00.000-07:002014-05-13T16:53:03.621-07:00BuddiesSomewhere along the line it became hard to make friends. I've never had this issue in the past. Not to toot my own horn, but I usually get along with people pretty well and make friends easily. It's one of the positive traits of being a perpetual people pleaser.<br />
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But since moving here I've had some issues making friends. I made some friends when I worked at Supercuts, but have kind of fallen out of contact with them. You'd think since I live in a neighborhood filled with people my age ish I would have to be beating people off with a stick. But no, not the case.<br />
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Once you are married and have kids the friendship dynamic changes. Ideally you find someone that you really get along with, that has kids that your kids get along with and that has a husband your husband gets along with. It's like asking lightening to strike 3 times! I've found myself really trying to make friends with people. Like sitting here thinking of excuses to go talk to certain people to try to plant the seeds of friendship. It's hard when you are the new person coming into an already well established ring of people. They aren't desperate for a new friend the way that I am, and it's actually kind of pathetic how hard I've tried.<br />
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Well I'm desperate no more. I decided the other day that I'm having to try WAY to hard. It shouldn't require this much effort to become friends with people. I feel like Drew Barrymore in Never Been Kissed when she is desperately trying to become friends with the popular kids...and no one wants to feel like Josie Grosie ( If you have not seen this movie I insist you stop reading and run to your nearest Redbox and rent it immediately). Long story short, I'm done. Not done trying to make friends. Just done trying so hard. I did a craft fair on Saturday and made a new friend in a matter of minutes. We sat and talked the whole time, and I actually had fun despite the dismal customer turn out. I realized, this is how making friends should be. Effortless, not full of effort. It it happens, great, if not then oh well. I shouldn't have to force myself on people to become friends with them.<br />
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I already have a best friend anyway. She is short, dramatic and full of attitude. But I love her and we spend all our time together. There is quite a gap in our ages but whats a few years between friends? So, to my best friend Brynlee. May we be buddies for life!<br />
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<br />Liz Cuillardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14992335776695046313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3159777993552268415.post-65655195372014380222014-05-07T11:42:00.000-07:002014-05-07T11:42:24.665-07:00Jinx! You Owe me a Good Night's SleepSo I totally jinxed myself. By talking about how great Claire is, and what a good sleeper she is. Well she is still great. Good sleeper however...not so much.<br />
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A switch flipped and suddenly she wants to eat every two and half hours. Not the end of the world during the day, but it is the end of the world at night. Ah! I'm tired. I'm hoping she is just going through a growth spurt and that this phase will not last long.<br />
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I forget how little she is. Not only is she not supposed to be sleeping through the night ( from an anatomical stand point) but it's nuts for me to expect her to. It's the hopes of a sleep deprived woman coming out, that's all. I would like to go back to waking up to feed her just once a night though.<br />
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I packed away all my newborn clothes, and it made me sad. I never thought I would be one of those, but it is really sad! If we decide to have another child, (please dear Lord let it be a boy otherwise Jimmy will go steal one) and it is a boy those newborn clothes won't be worn by one of my kids again.<br />
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Watching children grow up is such a mixed bag of emotions. It's exciting to see the new things they can do and to be able to stand by as they become little people. But it's sad to see the kids that they once were being left behind.Liz Cuillardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14992335776695046313noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3159777993552268415.post-48828069468538328022014-05-01T15:00:00.002-07:002014-05-01T15:00:49.898-07:00An Odd Thing to be Thankful ForToday, I'm thankful for Summer. I know, crazy right?<br />
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Well summer DOES suck around here. There is no denying it. But, since I can't avoid it I might as well try to be positive about it. So, here are some things about Summer that I am thankful for:<br />
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1. No socks, like ever. Less laundry, and if you are me less socks to lose.<br />
2. S'mores. Mmmm. I love s'mores. Brynlee and I just made some over a candle.<br />
3. The 4th of July. While it is un bearably hot here, the 4th of July is still one of my very favorite holidays.<br />
4. Tan lines. Especially on little girls and on little girl bums.<br />
5. My hair dries in about 2 min. For someone who has a ton of hair it's nice that it doesn't take 3 hours to dry!<br />
6. Here, when you get out of the shower you don't feel cold. I hate getting out of the shower in the winter time and being freezing. Not much of an issue in summertime around here<br />
7. LONG days. It's nice when Jimmy gets home and the sun is still out.<br />
8. For about a month the pool feels wonderful. Not too hot, not too cold. Just right and great for swimming<br />
9. The smell of sun tan lotion.<br />
10. My big tub of coconut oil stays liquid, which makes it so much easier to use.<br />
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Bring it on Summer, I'm ready for you!Liz Cuillardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14992335776695046313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3159777993552268415.post-40448297908904677362014-04-30T18:05:00.002-07:002014-04-30T18:05:48.233-07:00Queen ClarionYou know you watch a lot of children's TV when you start calling your baby the name of the queen fairy on Tinkerbell. Yes I call Claire Queen Clarion, and she seems to like it. <div>
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Claire is the EASIEST baby. I thought Brynlee was pretty easy, but now I've got a baby that is so low maintenance it's a joke. We scored big time. Claire only fusses when she is hungry usually. There was a few weeks when she would be a little fussy in the evening, but if I held her she was fine. Yesterday during the poop fiasco she didn't even make a peep. She likes to be held ( what baby doesn't?) but I put her down all the time and seems to be OK with that. As long as she can see someone she is fine.</div>
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She has been a great sleeper. She sleeps in her crib every night. No rocking, or singing or anything. She does need to be swaddled though. That is her one thing. In order to sleep really well she has to be wrapped up. She wakes up to eat in the night and goes right back to sleep when she is done. My lack of sleep these days is not really her fault. She wakes me up to eat and then I have insomnia for the next 2 hours. It's so irritating!!! She is usually done feeding in 15 min from start to finish. The rest of the time it's all my problem.</div>
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She has had one thing that was never a problem with Brynlee. I noticed she seemed to favor one side of her head. And her head looked a little misshapen. But she just got squeezed out of a birth canal, whose head wouldn't be misshapen after that? However Jimmy pointed out that her head was getting REALLY misshapen. I did some research and started to panic. Am I not moving her around enough? Is she going to have to wear one of those ( really expensive) helmet things? Did I ruin her head for life? It didn't seem to be torticollis because her neck will move to the opposite side. Her head just snaps right back to her favored flat side. We started making a conscious effort to get her to look to her less favored side. I've rolled up wash clothes and stick them under her favored side when she is awake to force her head in the other direction. After about a week it seems to be looking better, and her head will go to the less favored side more easily now. She has her 2 month appointment coming up so I'll ask the Dr then. Life is hard enough without a lumpy head!</div>
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She started smiling recently. Not a ton, but a smile here and there. When I went to get her out of bed this morning I peeked into her crib and there she was smiling away. Not a bad way to wake up!</div>
Liz Cuillardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14992335776695046313noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3159777993552268415.post-88987231953104170742014-04-29T19:26:00.001-07:002014-04-29T19:28:24.517-07:00On my OwnAnd then there was one. One adult with two kids that is. Yep, Jimmy went back to work, Donna left and now it's just me.<br />
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Yesterday was day 1. Not too bad! I woke up in a great mood, despite it being 7am and just having fallen back to sleep after the 5am feeding. The day went pretty well. It was a bit chaotic trying to feed and get everyone ready to go to dance class, but otherwise all was good. I did go to bed at 8:45 though. Yep, I didn't even make it to 9pm.<br />
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Today didn't go quite as well. We started out with Claire having a blowout of epic proportions as I was trying to get Brynlee ready for school. I was literally cleaning poop out of her belly button. It was front to back practically arm pit to arm pit. But we got Brynlee off to school on time. I went on a cleaning frenzy while Brynlee was at school and Claire was pretty cooperative. I find if I clean while Brynlee is home my clean house stays clean for about 2 min until a certain 3 year old messes it up again. This way it stayed clean for almost 3 hours until a certain 3 year old got home from school. I had to go to the store and figured only taking 1 kid was better than taking both so Claire and I ran some errands. In the car, out of the car. In the car, out of the car. I forgot how heavy those car seats are! Jeesh. We got home just in time for Brynlee to get out of school Oops, there went my nap time. And exercise time. And finding my inner peace time. Then it was feeding time for both girls and homework. Unfortunately that was accompanied by a splitting headache on my part, which refuses to go away. 1600 mg of ibuprofen and it's still hanging around.<br />
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I found myself losing patience today that I had plenty of yesterday. * sigh*. It's an adjustment period for everyone right? We'll get it figured out. I never did get dressed. I'm still sitting here in my pajama top however I did manage to throw on some yoga pants ( for the exercise I never did). Tomorrow will be better. On the positive side, at least I'm practically already dressed for bed. Which I'm ready to get into as soon as Jimmy gets home!Liz Cuillardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14992335776695046313noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3159777993552268415.post-35896964426535606522014-04-25T08:34:00.000-07:002014-04-25T08:34:18.200-07:00Thankful Thursday on Friday... AgainOops I missed Thursday, again. Hmm. This might become a weekly occurrence.<br />
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This week I'm thankful for the human body and it's ability to bounce back...sort of.<br />
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I had Brynlee when I was 26. I gained about 35 pounds with her and it all came off with relative ease after child birth. I was wearing a pair of my larger jeans 1 week ( Yes, 1 week!!!) post postpartum. By my 6 week check up I was back in my pre baby pants, at least most of them and was right around my pre pregnancy weight. It did take pilates to really get back to my pre pregnancy shape but all things considered I got pretty lucky! At the time I did not realize how lucky.<br />
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Cut to now. I'm 30 and gained 35 pounds with Claire as well. However I was more active during my pregnancy with Claire courtesy of my super active 3 year old who won't sit still. So, while I knew getting back to my pre pregnancy weight would be tough I thought I would bounce back similarly to how I did before with Brynlee. It makes sense, right? No. Wrong! 2nd baby and older = pounds not melting off the way they used to. Here we are 7 weeks post postpartum and I still have 12 pounds to lose. And I can barely get my old pants up, otherwise buttoned. And if I can get them buttoned I've got a muffin top so big a bakery would be jealous.<br />
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I suddenly have a new found respect for all the moms out there who have had multiple kids and look great.<br />
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I'm sure you are wondering when I'll get to the thankful part?<br />
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As I get frustrated with my new soft and larger body, I think about what a miracle it is that women can get back to pre pregnancy bodies at all! I mean look at what my body just went through. I went from being able to use my pregnant belly as a table to it being flatish. Ok not really flatish but much smaller than it was just last month. It really is amazing. I've still got a lot of work to do. And I'm sure I'll complain plenty along the way as I stare longingly at my skinny jeans that haven't seen the light of day in 10 months. But I'll get there. And the fact that I can get back there ( or I think I can get back there) EVENTUALLY is something to thankful for.<br />
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<br />Liz Cuillardhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/14992335776695046313noreply@blogger.com0