tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-49927555754017365342024-02-21T00:31:44.351-05:00the pessimistic motherthoughts of a PPD recovering, full time working, glass half empty, Mother...Crystalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03574293824316769676noreply@blogger.comBlogger110125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4992755575401736534.post-23985409348748472122011-12-08T11:19:00.001-05:002011-12-08T11:20:07.565-05:00Moved to WordpressDear Followers,<br />
<br />
I know there aren't many of you, but if you will, please follow me at my new blog address: http://thepessimisticmother.wordpress.com/. I decided to make the switch to wordpress so I'm on the same page as my other blog for my daughter. I would appriciate the follow!<br />
<br />
As part of my new journey with the RE, I am also thinking about doing a vlog to document the process. Let me know what you think!<br />
<br />
<br />Crystalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03574293824316769676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4992755575401736534.post-70218657629896690532011-12-06T15:01:00.001-05:002011-12-07T00:19:00.301-05:00RE Appointment 12/5/11<div class="postbody">
At the start of AF this time, I had a decision to
make, either take more clomid (which wasn't working) or call the RE.
After crying my eyes out and talking to DH, we decided it was finally
time to take the leap and get professional help. Going into the
appointment I was super nervous about him flat out refusing treatment
because of my weight. I had myself sick this morning. I threw up twice! <br />
<br />
We
get there today and the front nurse seemed busy, has a quiet voice, but
was seemingly nice. I got my vitals taken, HR was 99 (think I was
nervous?). Blood pressure was fine. We got back to the other nurse, who
basically takes down our medical history. I've never been asked so many
questions in my life. That must have taken a good 30 or so minutes. She
was also super nice. (We're off to a great start!). <br />
<br />
So I go back
and meet the doctor, in his office, completely clothed (I've read this
is good since you'll feel more comfortable talking about things when
you're not naked on the table). He asked us more questions about our
medical history. Things about my cycle history, the type of pain I have
with my periods, about the birth of Addison, and about my chemical
pregnancy. He also reviewed my blood work that my OB office sent over
(which by the way they did super quickly!!! I called them late Friday
afternoon and it was there this morning. I love that office). Nothing
seemed out of the ordinary. He mentioned checking for endometriosis.
Especially because of the pain during my periods and then also
intercourse. <br />
<br />
Then he went in to talk about my weight. I knew it
was coming, but he did it SO well. He was so kind about it. Didn't talk
down to me or make me feel like I'm this horrible disgusting person
(much like I was playing it out in my head). He asked some history type
questions with that, if I've always struggled with weight, what I've
done to try and get healthier, and also about diabetes (Since I had GD
with my pregnancy). He wants me to get a 3 hour glucose tolerance test
(the same one you get during pregnancy) and he wrote me a script so I
can get more strips for my monitor. He wants me testing my fasting and
then also 1 or 2 hours after a few meals each day. He really wants to
see what my blood sugars are doing, so we can address it. He's also
going to order a few more blood tests. <br />
<br />
From looking at my
history and blood work, he's not convinced that I have PCOS. He said
that in order to be diagnosed with that, I need at least 2 of 3
"symptoms," which are elevated testosterone (mine is in normal limits),
no ovulation (I ovulate, though late), and poly cystic ovaries (mine
look okay). He also wanted me to stop the metformin until after I take
my GTT and talk to an internalist about my blood sugar levels. If it is
deemed necessary after those tests, then I will continue. He encouraged
me to start with a diabetic diet and to get back in the gym.<br />
<br />
Since
I went in on CD 4, I was able to get a few things taken care of. They
went ahead and did 3 day blood tests, an exam, and then also an ultrasound. </div>
<div class="postbody">
</div>
<div class="postbody">
My FSH was 5.5</div>
<div class="postbody">
LH was 2.0</div>
<div class="postbody">
Estrogen was 40 </div>
<div class="postbody">
<br /></div>
<div class="postbody">
All normal for CD3. The ultrasound was also normal. Also, since I had great timing with my appointment,
I get to hit the ground running...<br />
<br />
I have to schedule my GTT this month.<br />
<br />
I'm
getting blood work to test the following: CBC, DHEA-S, Fasting blood
sugar, fasting insulin, free testerone, 17-hydroxyprogestrone,
progestrone, prolactin, RPR, T4 (Free), TSH, Testosterone, Thyroid AB, the standard slew of STDs and immunity to vaccinated diseases. He specifically mentioned testing something in my thyroid to make
sure that's okay (Since I'm having a hell of a time loosing weight), I think that's the Thyriod AB and the 17-hydroxyprogestrone. I should get this blood work done after they confirm ovulation (they don't want me to have to go and get stuck a bunch of times.). <br />
<br />
On December 12th, I'm getting my HSG<br />
<br />
December 17, going in for an ovulation scan (which will let them know when I should do the above blood work)<br />
<br />
DH has to do a S/A. I think he might get that done this week or so. He also has his own blood work to do. <br />
<br />
I
think that's it. I'm glad to finally get here. I need answers and I'm
so ready. The appointment went great. The staff were all nice, I
couldn't ask for better.</div>Crystalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03574293824316769676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4992755575401736534.post-85830486787293352642011-11-30T11:25:00.000-05:002011-12-01T12:16:37.019-05:00Day 30 of the 30 Days of Thanks ChallengeToday I am thank for....<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/8NZiQR7BE3c?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Crystalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03574293824316769676noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4992755575401736534.post-55957277147910230842011-11-29T11:18:00.000-05:002011-12-01T11:20:27.671-05:00Day 29 of the 30 Days of Thanks Challenge<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdJiWB-JOnISzBk1rBzEUHvBtjWoBiD-GDqb1cDY88IAWKBzAlCu8aaSWZfFUu8Y0DoGxVzqoUJ_VPFnf1cYLiiwRP5nK2fXZ9-KrnjIPam-yYi4UctZXXW-Jrqi91a5gJ69kmcjqeP3Hv/s1600/389849_10100547117923141_5000798_54533670_338112445_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdJiWB-JOnISzBk1rBzEUHvBtjWoBiD-GDqb1cDY88IAWKBzAlCu8aaSWZfFUu8Y0DoGxVzqoUJ_VPFnf1cYLiiwRP5nK2fXZ9-KrnjIPam-yYi4UctZXXW-Jrqi91a5gJ69kmcjqeP3Hv/s320/389849_10100547117923141_5000798_54533670_338112445_n.jpg" width="237" /></a>Today I am thankful for those that say thanks.<br />
<br />
I work with a lot of professors at the university. I help them do A LOT for their courses in terms of delivery, managing, and handling grades. It's a lot of work and some of them are not fast learners. I don't mind though and I very much enjoy working with most of them. It's always nice to get a gift of thanks. It's nice to be appreciated. <br />
<br />Crystalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03574293824316769676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4992755575401736534.post-23027826109461981602011-11-28T14:49:00.001-05:002011-11-28T15:04:09.086-05:00Day 28 of the 30 Days of Thanks ChallengeToday I am thankful for chocolate, diet soda, and that my dog is still alive. That is all. <br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZriDaA_lCErtKFAzBe4-98bOi9tKZisGhCUqbSk1HUCJq6B_zNKVgNiKgt9CgTaF5je_Y-NNIh3hyphenhyphens9cU-fwI2GB3z-mKMgjG7knSZyfabgDa8RvDsm2ql_3yXFcPCFlhUD5TrpIIkf3-/s1600/7329_699117715381_5000798_42297452_5621701_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZriDaA_lCErtKFAzBe4-98bOi9tKZisGhCUqbSk1HUCJq6B_zNKVgNiKgt9CgTaF5je_Y-NNIh3hyphenhyphens9cU-fwI2GB3z-mKMgjG7knSZyfabgDa8RvDsm2ql_3yXFcPCFlhUD5TrpIIkf3-/s320/7329_699117715381_5000798_42297452_5621701_n.jpg" width="240" /></a>Today has been horrible after following a horrible weekend. My dear doggie decided to eat 6 oz of toffee milk chocolate. You know the ones that look like an orange. He ate the entire thing. Well, minus one piece. We're not sure at what time exactly he ate it, but when we saw it, he was already vomiting everywhere. I mean everywhere. It was soupy chunky chocolate vomit and it was disgusting. Thank goodness for my husband. He cleaned it all up.<br />
<br />
Now at 6 oz, that is NEAR toxicity levels for the size of my dog. He wasn't showing any other signs of poisoning so we waited it out. I slept on the couch in the living room after being up most of the night so I can hear him if he started seizing or vomiting again. Luckily he stopped and I was able to get some water him and I gave him some bread to help fill his stomach if he was hungry. The night was uneventful and I woke up to all the bread being eaten. We're still keeping a close eye on him but it looks like he's okay.<br />
<br />
Last night A decided to have a scream fest and was up until past 1 am. I'm exhausted and I was late for work today. I couldn't stop for coffee AND I hit every single red light on the way to work. Every single one!<br />
<br />
So today, I'm going to enjoy my Twix and drink my Pepsi max and be thankful that I have these. I have a migraine brewing and I'm hoping the extra dosages of caffeine will help. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Crystalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03574293824316769676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4992755575401736534.post-83350319320523049252011-11-27T10:00:00.000-05:002011-11-27T12:28:14.458-05:00Day 27 of the 30 Days of Thanks ChallengeToday I am thankful for my skill. Not many people have the skills I have and they really give me the ability to do things many people can't. They allow me to save money, be creative, and to be giving. I love making anything and everything I can. I love capturing moments, designing greeting cards, invitations, logos, and anything else my mind can think up. I also love to sew. It is an amazing feeling when you finish a product. Clothes especially since you start out with just fabric and you eventually turn it into this walking piece of artwork that your kids go around in. <br />
<br />
Here is a Christmas card I just designed:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v505/Measweety/Holiday%20Cards/graytreewm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v505/Measweety/Holiday%20Cards/graytreewm.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Front <br /><a href="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v505/Measweety/Holiday%20Cards/snowflakewreathwm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v505/Measweety/Holiday%20Cards/snowflakewreathwm.jpg" width="320" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Back </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v505/Measweety/Holiday%20Cards/snowflakewreath_backwm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v505/Measweety/Holiday%20Cards/snowflakewreath_backwm.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />Crystalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03574293824316769676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4992755575401736534.post-5148310376130146562011-11-26T13:03:00.000-05:002011-11-26T13:03:00.517-05:00Day 26 of the 30 Days of Thanks ChallengeToday I am thankful for my purse. My very large purse. It's perfect and can hold everything. My purse is actually a camera bag, but more stylish. I'm thankful that my husband let me splurge and get one. I use it for everything, it's the ultimate photographer mom's bag. I can hold my camera, two lenses, lens cleaner, filters, my ipad, wallet, keys, magazines, diapers, wipes, snacks, sippies, and a ton of other things. It gets heavy, but I have all I need. I would like to get a smaller version and the other style of bags are just gorgeous: <a href="http://epiphaniebags.com/">http://epiphaniebags.com/</a> <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Bpxtgt4nycYXxIKES6AIM61KcheckI2lqhhsh2fLXx37gUhyCM77XLKK0FHOqAy587e-6FUsH5Er2LLutpxZng1l2l7k151ah8HSrigdR-P0WFYccvW2z72ebSsqqJQmRARi0aps_Fxt/s1600/277430_10100360203096951_5000798_52835043_6531885_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5Bpxtgt4nycYXxIKES6AIM61KcheckI2lqhhsh2fLXx37gUhyCM77XLKK0FHOqAy587e-6FUsH5Er2LLutpxZng1l2l7k151ah8HSrigdR-P0WFYccvW2z72ebSsqqJQmRARi0aps_Fxt/s200/277430_10100360203096951_5000798_52835043_6531885_o.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAe9qWinpzFjal4L-d0JL5F1R0oAgtBsEqffpedr2HsUof2BDEKlhUggmsfyVo3L0yMb_Oi6q8EbegU6y13qqK3WUaqwAe-P98CTrMbrFK1KGRssfdnXsamcE5QnH9Dd9XJtffrqzPz0CU/s1600/279475_10100360212518071_5000798_52835150_1891466_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAe9qWinpzFjal4L-d0JL5F1R0oAgtBsEqffpedr2HsUof2BDEKlhUggmsfyVo3L0yMb_Oi6q8EbegU6y13qqK3WUaqwAe-P98CTrMbrFK1KGRssfdnXsamcE5QnH9Dd9XJtffrqzPz0CU/s200/279475_10100360212518071_5000798_52835150_1891466_o.jpg" width="150" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGjmUzMyv4LdsykuWB0-dGv0oTtUNzZ4XaPk15EBNmRVtJa1lyqTlusw5Okz3iH5Xh9hrs8Yhfgqur8Mn4mkVcCmy1EjM6A2HNL0Z9b0KssUWVDQmg73fHu03CxpJs0mpdQDFlKk6Gyqec/s1600/280817_10100360204708721_5000798_52835046_2778889_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGjmUzMyv4LdsykuWB0-dGv0oTtUNzZ4XaPk15EBNmRVtJa1lyqTlusw5Okz3iH5Xh9hrs8Yhfgqur8Mn4mkVcCmy1EjM6A2HNL0Z9b0KssUWVDQmg73fHu03CxpJs0mpdQDFlKk6Gyqec/s200/280817_10100360204708721_5000798_52835046_2778889_o.jpg" width="200" /></a>Crystalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03574293824316769676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4992755575401736534.post-45709299329809495022011-11-25T10:00:00.000-05:002011-11-25T10:21:57.464-05:00Day 25 of the 30 Days of Thanks ChallengeToday I am thankful for Black Friday. Not in the sense that most will think. I don't go out for the sales, I don't shop, I avoid stores at all costs. But what I am thankful for, is the day off. I get to spend the day with my daughter as my husband sleeps off his work hangover. We will put up the tree, watch Christmas movies, make cookies, and truly embrace the holiday season. I'm thankful that I can do this and that I get the day off, paid. <br />
<br />
I love putting up the tree, fluffing the branches, and finding the right home for each and every ornament. We will save the tree topper, a beautiful angel dressed in white, until my husband gets up and we will put it on together. We'll dim the lights and plug it in, and take it all in. I will probably make hot chocolate tonight, maybe I'll get a bit of peppermint to put in it. I could buy some egg nog and we'll nibble on some of the first cookies or fudge of the season. I am thankful for this day.Crystalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03574293824316769676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4992755575401736534.post-72094884909245892532011-11-24T05:30:00.000-05:002011-11-24T05:30:00.251-05:00Day 24 of the 30 Days of Thanks ChallengeHappy Thanksgiving!<br />
<br />
Today I'm thankful for the feast we will be consuming later today. It's just our small, 3 person, family this year. No guests, no visitors, no family. I'm sad about this and I yearn for my family to be here with us. But because of the early start to the retail season, my husband has to work. I think, in the mist of excitement for the sales and deals that stores offer that so many shoppers forget that in order for them to snag that sale at 1 am, a family is missing their loved one who can't enjoy the holiday with them. It's unfortunate, especially for us. My husband's work has now taken away TWO holiday's from us. We will not be able to travel for either holiday because of his work schedule.<br />
<br />
I'm going to try hard to not focus on that. I'm going to try and be thankful that my family can mostly be together for this day. We get to sit down together and enjoy our meal. I'm thankful that we have food, that we can enjoy it, and that we have enough of it to never go hungry. I'm thankful that we don't struggle to put food on our table or in our bellies.<br />
<br />
((I'll post a picture later today))Crystalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03574293824316769676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4992755575401736534.post-54888968288264198982011-11-23T11:00:00.000-05:002011-11-23T11:43:33.380-05:00Day 23 of the 30 Days of Thanks Challenge Today I am thankful for getting off early. Sure, it's to go to a doctor's appointment, but still. It's nice to leave early and feel like I'm "cheating" or something. I love getting home from work early, I always feel like I have extra time that I should have usually got. Extra hours in the day.<br />
<br />
Today I'm also thankful for my vision doctor. With out her I would not be able to see. I couldn't drive, watch movies, avoid seemingly obvious obstacles. I'm excited for the possibility of getting new glasses. I hope to be able to find a deal on either my glasses or contacts. As I need both this year. My glasses are about ready for the trash and I'm down to my last pair of contacts, which are currently in my eyes. <br />
<br />
I'm thankful for those early days, those extra hours, the "stick it to the man" type feeling, and the ability of sight.Crystalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03574293824316769676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4992755575401736534.post-18816037786960879522011-11-22T12:14:00.001-05:002011-11-22T12:27:21.886-05:00Day 22 of the 30 Days of Thanks ChallengeToday I am thankful for coffee.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh309tipGXVCJ_1YAX3e7QsAW6-uvSlVWqV05-KF2j7T67un_UBc_ZOPJftOxvxYuVk0LCMsbvZ9ijOybgIbRyQBRuvIfyQHnhsd5gidF_wufCa7ryirMYVvVt7KLMjQvmckyXIVt4euQ7h/s1600/75655_911951060651_5000798_49066628_1885606_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh309tipGXVCJ_1YAX3e7QsAW6-uvSlVWqV05-KF2j7T67un_UBc_ZOPJftOxvxYuVk0LCMsbvZ9ijOybgIbRyQBRuvIfyQHnhsd5gidF_wufCa7ryirMYVvVt7KLMjQvmckyXIVt4euQ7h/s320/75655_911951060651_5000798_49066628_1885606_n.jpg" width="177" /></a>That warm soothing drink that seems to calm my nerves after a rough morning. The "pick me up" I need in the middle of the day. The sweetness I need after dinner. Coffee can give it all to me. It's warm, sweet concoction is perfect to sip on while I'm reading a favorite book, working on a project, editing photos, or watching the morning news. I don't drink more than a cup or two a day, but I cherish that cup of Joe. <br />
<br />
What is your perfect cup of coffee?<br />
<br />
Mine? It's quiet simple. I don't go for that fancy stuff. I mean it's good, but I'd rather have something else. I'm not a huge fan of Starbucks coffee. Their beans always have a burnt taste to them. I prefer Dunkin Donuts. Just a large cup of Dunkin Donuts coffee, extra cream, 4 splendas. Yum, it's perfect. When I take a sip of it, it's like an aura of calmness comes over me and I can just take a deep breath, smell the brew, and just escape for a moment. <br />
<br />
I am so, very thankful, for coffee.Crystalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03574293824316769676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4992755575401736534.post-91590314671200310242011-11-21T12:06:00.000-05:002011-11-22T12:14:40.636-05:00Day 21 of the 30 Days of Thanks Challenge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOK1lga4PYwSiRqrpXIQlQGA7k1L4z6oyHYbfaGCZ3QHXZ6FGd9j54ipXzDKdT6C7I15CePJJ2RodTlOP1jeD0QatOx_ruV9dBSPimJ7OxneDFWSmh71rd_GGNnQAfTzirBY3TWkWVZuPX/s1600/C360_2011-09-21+14-21-04.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOK1lga4PYwSiRqrpXIQlQGA7k1L4z6oyHYbfaGCZ3QHXZ6FGd9j54ipXzDKdT6C7I15CePJJ2RodTlOP1jeD0QatOx_ruV9dBSPimJ7OxneDFWSmh71rd_GGNnQAfTzirBY3TWkWVZuPX/s320/C360_2011-09-21+14-21-04.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Today I am thankful for my office. I'm thankful that I don't have to share my work space with another person and that I can close the door and not have to "deal" with the people I work with. I'm thankful that I can close out the noise and dim the lights if that's what I want to do. I can also hang things on the wall and make my space warm and welcoming. If I had more money, I'd probably get a couch and I want a mini fridge. All in good time though :).<br />
<br />
I really don't think I could stand to work in a cubical. I hate the idea of hearing every single thing that other people are doing. I hate the idea of having to wear head phones if I'm listening to something online or hearing everybody's phone conversation.<br />
<br />
Now, I just wish I could get the office with a window. But for now, I'm thankful for the one that I do have :)Crystalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03574293824316769676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4992755575401736534.post-5907243196701600312011-11-20T12:01:00.000-05:002011-11-22T12:06:31.460-05:00Day 20 of the 30 Days of Thanks Challenge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJsYTEN31IB396odEz_4o8gA6STWFQkqToTvngVtNP54DyLwg1bxrZfir6p28dOsudc9-MG_lAGD2VIeMqaLc_khMUNwynVek7SXVQSjtXAU6x4QPJ5YkGfCqgAjat8QiQUwc0ES7-X3J4/s1600/254899_10100238189543091_5000798_51826696_7520469_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJsYTEN31IB396odEz_4o8gA6STWFQkqToTvngVtNP54DyLwg1bxrZfir6p28dOsudc9-MG_lAGD2VIeMqaLc_khMUNwynVek7SXVQSjtXAU6x4QPJ5YkGfCqgAjat8QiQUwc0ES7-X3J4/s320/254899_10100238189543091_5000798_51826696_7520469_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Today I am thankful for funny faces. The ones from toddlers that just make you belly laugh. My daughter is hilarous and even more funny since she's discovering she can control the muscles in her face. She does this one where she squints her eyes together and then smiles at you all funny. I've yet to capture a picture of it as she does them at random and she's so unpredictable. I've also noticed that lately she just stares at herself in the mirror and watches her body move. She tells herself to dance and then goes crazy! Or she just stands there looking intently at her face and laughs when she makes these silly faces. I'm thankful for the joy that toddlers bring, their innocence, and their toddler humor.Crystalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03574293824316769676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4992755575401736534.post-6366804709460684142011-11-19T11:56:00.000-05:002011-11-22T12:00:13.706-05:00Day 19 of the 30 Days of Thanks Challenge<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpK-jZVM9mOV1mdu6G1IaAfmfPzwON5zKRQjGOxGc59Or70lmdozZtB2yfAG18N7YRnvph8JGYi4_Sl5cqJBjkfet8GJFBIJ6WJftJvb-z6a2YLQpwbXqozndHA12nzZVh2kK3xUfA2BNo/s1600/248569_10100238188944291_5000798_51826679_7890772_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpK-jZVM9mOV1mdu6G1IaAfmfPzwON5zKRQjGOxGc59Or70lmdozZtB2yfAG18N7YRnvph8JGYi4_Sl5cqJBjkfet8GJFBIJ6WJftJvb-z6a2YLQpwbXqozndHA12nzZVh2kK3xUfA2BNo/s320/248569_10100238188944291_5000798_51826679_7890772_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not taken today, but its too funny NOT to share :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Today I am thankful for lazy Saturday's. After a very busy last two weeks I was very grateful to remain my my pajamas most of the day, hang out with my DH and daughter, eat pizza for dinner, and play video games. It was a nice calm break from the busy life we have been leading for the past few weeks. We needed that down time.<br />
<br />
We did nothing today. Absolutely nothing. Well okay, we did take my car to the dealership for a recall part, go grocery shopping, and pick up pizza. But, compared to the alternative, it sure felt like nothing! I plan on doing the same for the rest of the weekends this year. We don't have much going on because we can't travel this year. Thanks to Black Friday and greedy shoppers who don't want the stores to close! <br />
<br />
I'm so thankful for the time that we can spend as a family, it doesn't seem much as of late, with our work schedules and the retail season approaching.Crystalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03574293824316769676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4992755575401736534.post-11211458735638147522011-11-18T15:53:00.001-05:002011-11-18T15:59:15.235-05:00Day 18 of the 30 Days of Thanks ChallengeToday I am thankful for my engagement ring. This beautiful piece of jewelry was hand picked by my husband (okay, I DID give input.... okay, I picked it out!). I think it's gorgeous. When I look at it, it brightens my heart and not once have I ever thought, "Oh when I get to X anniversary, I cannot wait to 'trade up!'" No, this ring is perfect and I pray I can hold on to it forever.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRizuPlMMMnAQ7HJlTgFGH23m_fO12MhlOoj8K1Djmwq0Z8jJG5MJ-8YDV8bN08OeFjRp4ZObanBCvG1lukg-inaoDufhNUGfrX7B6Uuwd6p3QYg5Be365baMgBgd_sti1YVvlGvnjZoII/s1600/263906_10100331126900881_5000798_52353131_7988960_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRizuPlMMMnAQ7HJlTgFGH23m_fO12MhlOoj8K1Djmwq0Z8jJG5MJ-8YDV8bN08OeFjRp4ZObanBCvG1lukg-inaoDufhNUGfrX7B6Uuwd6p3QYg5Be365baMgBgd_sti1YVvlGvnjZoII/s320/263906_10100331126900881_5000798_52353131_7988960_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
It reminds me that my husband loves me, that he will do and sacrifice ANYTHING for me. We're not rich people, so the fact that he bought me this ring, well, it says a lot. This will always be my favorite piece of jewelry and maybe, one day, when I'm very old, I'll pass the ring down to my daughter. <br />
<br />
I'm thankful that we were able to buy it. I'm thankful that I get to look at it every day and I'm thankful that it brings me so much joy.Crystalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03574293824316769676noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4992755575401736534.post-72978432186086263212011-11-17T23:06:00.001-05:002011-11-18T15:53:24.748-05:00Day 17 of the 30 Days of Thanks ChallengeToday I am thankful for the Harry potter series. My BFF told me I had to read them after she had finished the first three. I picked it up and have been hooked ever since. I have read Goblet of Fire so many times that the binding is worn through and the pages are coming loose. I'm thankful that we,as a generation, had the experience of anticipation as each of the books came out. We got to go to midnight releases and we got to celebrate literature, how cool is that?<br />
<br />
Harry Potter has been such a big part of my life since I first opened the books in 2002. I really just enjoy them. I'm also thankful that the directors and JK Rowling partnered together for the making of the movies. I think they were well done. I'm also thankful for the Wizarding World of Harry Potter. It was so amazing to actually stand there on the street, see Hogworts, and just take it all in. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSjt_gTLuhdUiRLQDFPXMMqL_uEXIe6tssxSlaEovcethHwgOEb8qlziQWzjXr6BltttX2hCR4P5U6s3e_vy8U_-54GevmYOa-pHs16LweJJBgHjaNPCNh0cPIvgrP22sZ0aSh02lwLdmW/s640/blogger-image-1233919405.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSjt_gTLuhdUiRLQDFPXMMqL_uEXIe6tssxSlaEovcethHwgOEb8qlziQWzjXr6BltttX2hCR4P5U6s3e_vy8U_-54GevmYOa-pHs16LweJJBgHjaNPCNh0cPIvgrP22sZ0aSh02lwLdmW/s400/blogger-image-1233919405.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
I got to be part of a series that changed children and young adult fiction. I am thankful for that! <br />
<br />Crystalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03574293824316769676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4992755575401736534.post-80406454710967132622011-11-16T23:41:00.001-05:002011-11-16T23:51:52.495-05:00Day 16 of the 30 Days of Thanks ChallengeToday I am thankful for, well... I've had a rough day so I'm digging deep here. Or maybe I'm not. Today, I'm thankful for good TV. It's one of the few things I do for entertainment. I'm thankful that there ARE some decent shows on and that they are are on public stations AND that I can watch them pretty much any time I want to thanks to network Internet sites, Netflix, and Hulu.<br />
<br />
I'm so glad that technology has advanced so far that I can watch my favorite shows anywhere, anytime. I can even watch shows on my phone! <br />
<br />
Some of my favorite shows include: Grey's Anatomy, Castle, Private Practice, TerraNova, and the Office. I'm thankful for everybody that is involved to make those shows possible. <br />
<br />
I am also thankful for the handsomeness that is Patrick Dempsey.<div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXCbSUKjSM1unJAuYeuOiEWS3qO80JoYg5-5z-93MZVISaiHfhBAPI8x1IDhdS1sa3zE36CUgijY54AiB3TigIUC0Nar6rfcnONcp8x4AZvWtJR9pmWx0h5_BtDKSqCtx6tukdsTXFu_v9/s640/blogger-image-2021129469.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXCbSUKjSM1unJAuYeuOiEWS3qO80JoYg5-5z-93MZVISaiHfhBAPI8x1IDhdS1sa3zE36CUgijY54AiB3TigIUC0Nar6rfcnONcp8x4AZvWtJR9pmWx0h5_BtDKSqCtx6tukdsTXFu_v9/s640/blogger-image-2021129469.jpg" /></a></div>Crystalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03574293824316769676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4992755575401736534.post-77693899531530203862011-11-15T15:16:00.001-05:002011-11-15T15:23:48.329-05:00Day 15 of the 30 Days of Thanks Challenge<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_cu8R0bpCcSN2fsRaDXP29BPXXKr2yI61znPyfSmUoV5iH0PmdrxIzSeo8kBRQ6elbCbXBVcG5teK8IcI4yFUryTSCMJEAmQPUg0VqKkOKG4E1bhyphenhyphen5F7MX7p5omy-WHoKc7L3ZqJXVT9b/s1600/382783_10100511417477121_5000798_54352707_1189842272_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh_cu8R0bpCcSN2fsRaDXP29BPXXKr2yI61znPyfSmUoV5iH0PmdrxIzSeo8kBRQ6elbCbXBVcG5teK8IcI4yFUryTSCMJEAmQPUg0VqKkOKG4E1bhyphenhyphen5F7MX7p5omy-WHoKc7L3ZqJXVT9b/s320/382783_10100511417477121_5000798_54352707_1189842272_n.jpg" width="213" /></a>Today I am thankful for baby carriers. I'm not sure how I would survive with out them and I really don't understand how some parents are so resistant to using them! Gosh they have saved my back and arms. Especially when Addison was younger and all she wanted to do was be held. Even now into toddlerhood, she loves riding in it. She says, "back, back!" when she wants me to put her in the Boba.<br />
<br />
This past week I even got to use my carrier in another state! While at the aquarium little miss busy bee doesn't like to stay still. Which means she notoriously skips over her nap and is a stinker for the entire day. I was able to get her settled into the Boba while looking at the jelly fish and she quickly fell right asleep. And she stayed asleep until we managed to get to a resturant and eat dinner.<br />
<br />
I love wearing her out. I especially love wearing her when we're at busy places or in downtown areas. I am thankful that I'm able to wear her and keep her safe.Crystalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03574293824316769676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4992755575401736534.post-65162797004833811592011-11-14T11:01:00.001-05:002011-11-14T11:06:19.772-05:00Day 14 of the 30 Days of Thanks Challenge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg81zs7kPUse582Q4SYly8ELVXUK5Qmrgax-FrlmsTeca3gf6w4GUlqF_hOQQwV3hI8gNcdV2cLsoEiKYeXfpX-4MfxCv_RLuEl-WE6FXeKlWINC0rnH3u5nvWFjoYI9frP-SzTD0nyKUp5/s1600/302561_10100471459268691_5000798_54020172_1447667664_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg81zs7kPUse582Q4SYly8ELVXUK5Qmrgax-FrlmsTeca3gf6w4GUlqF_hOQQwV3hI8gNcdV2cLsoEiKYeXfpX-4MfxCv_RLuEl-WE6FXeKlWINC0rnH3u5nvWFjoYI9frP-SzTD0nyKUp5/s320/302561_10100471459268691_5000798_54020172_1447667664_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Today I am thankful for Addison's Monday care giver. I never wanted to put Addison into any type of day care when I went back to work so my husband and I worked opposite shifts to keep her home with one of us. *WE* wanted to raise her. Well a year and a half latter my job took away work from home days, which means we had no choice but to look for a place or person to care for her while I worked on Monday.<br />
<br />
I posted some questions in my local Mommy's FB group and this lovely lady messaged me saying that she has an in-home day care, she's licienced, and that she'd love to meet me and my daughter to see if the fit was right. We scheduled a time to go over there and from the very instant I walked through her front door I knew this would be it. I could tell by how she had her home set up for the daycare that she was a teacher. She had a ton of toys, books, and many things for the kids to do. Plus, she was super nice.<br />
<br />
I of course did my homework. I pulled up her information on the county website and reviewed it with my husband.<br />
<br />
Almost four months later I feel I can call this woman a friend. We have many things in common and I fully trust her with the care of Addison. Plus, Addison loves her too. She just loves spending time with her and her son. It makes me so thankful that I found such a wonderful person to care for Addison while I'm away working.<br />
<br />Crystalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03574293824316769676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4992755575401736534.post-40766695517508483612011-11-13T13:55:00.000-05:002011-11-14T14:00:42.408-05:00Day 13 of the 30 Days of Thanks Challenge<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqp6nL1EbSaIUvja90ZuM3wTspVpEke2w7Pc91UuZCEu04YrtV4clQwmnSXVUdGzvDdl4EM_5IbcdzKrQRHOU0pl-1MYh05ixVmAKlLaNj8_FED7QKSEkTXa-oTPuI62_cfoYovzd0CGaZ/s1600/311802_10100509024637391_5000798_54339647_494887337_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqp6nL1EbSaIUvja90ZuM3wTspVpEke2w7Pc91UuZCEu04YrtV4clQwmnSXVUdGzvDdl4EM_5IbcdzKrQRHOU0pl-1MYh05ixVmAKlLaNj8_FED7QKSEkTXa-oTPuI62_cfoYovzd0CGaZ/s320/311802_10100509024637391_5000798_54339647_494887337_n.jpg" width="320" /></a>Today I am thankful for my camera. With out it I wouldn't be able to capture visual memories of my life. Some type of camera is always close by weither it is my phone, a small point and shoot, or my Digital SLR. I love taking photographs and have since I was in middle school. My bedroom walls used to be filled with photos of my friends, family, and vacation scenery. I LOVE photos.<br />
<br />
One day, I hope that I'm good enough to do this professionally. I've taken a few steps and I'm branching out. But it's slow and I have a lot to do. I am thankful that I am able to take photos and I'm thankful for my talent and love for it as well.<br />
<br />
I am thankful that I'm able to capture moments that will bring back feelings and emotions.Crystalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03574293824316769676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4992755575401736534.post-24363665402720490312011-11-12T13:48:00.000-05:002011-11-15T08:16:44.098-05:00Day 12 of the 30 Days of Thanks Challenge<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz9xf4A5L9vAMJ0c5KRqW9DpNDg_RVapV0cinVDHDf4iGiK0ZLD_mYlzHb72PHhZOgDJvDHoufIu5d4dHFz7MVo6b9DETzkh6iuN4XKHzXFku7S7nXWcYA6B1SVFd5iJGppaAxg6s-5Snh/s1600/381455_10100511412731631_5000798_54352585_516593202_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz9xf4A5L9vAMJ0c5KRqW9DpNDg_RVapV0cinVDHDf4iGiK0ZLD_mYlzHb72PHhZOgDJvDHoufIu5d4dHFz7MVo6b9DETzkh6iuN4XKHzXFku7S7nXWcYA6B1SVFd5iJGppaAxg6s-5Snh/s320/381455_10100511412731631_5000798_54352585_516593202_n.jpg" width="320" /></a>We're driving home today. I'm incredibly sad, but, today I'm thankful for the opportunities that I have. I know I complain a lot of what I don't have and sometimes it is so hard to take a step back and look at what you DO have. This week has been amazing and I'm so thankful that I have the opportunity and the means to visit friends, family, and to be able to take a vacation. There are so many people that struggle way more than we do and they are unable to have these luxuries.<br />
<br />
Our vacation has been perfect. I've drank more cups of coffee than I care to count, we've bundled up in the cold and we got to go to some new places. Our trip to the aquarium was amazing. Addison had a great time and her and Ella played constantly. We sure will miss them! Downtown Chattanooga was fantastic and we had the opportunity to eat at a restaurant that had the best fish and chips. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKoeUAsnrKw5a04WvwodVSaEZieQHUKfag1iCPdsPepjL1haMl7zY2CXYk-UZ5eYrj8LzG9rIJkbvvqo6zP1VoMo81JU6C4RYoVd3qIwV7ox052-yGo4eJbgEqVKmh8uMkwd708VjieRsU/s1600/299701_10100511418215641_5000798_54352729_345422482_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKoeUAsnrKw5a04WvwodVSaEZieQHUKfag1iCPdsPepjL1haMl7zY2CXYk-UZ5eYrj8LzG9rIJkbvvqo6zP1VoMo81JU6C4RYoVd3qIwV7ox052-yGo4eJbgEqVKmh8uMkwd708VjieRsU/s320/299701_10100511418215641_5000798_54352729_345422482_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />Crystalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03574293824316769676noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4992755575401736534.post-49880842895148236572011-11-11T11:16:00.000-05:002011-11-14T11:34:57.490-05:00Day 11 of the 30 Days of Thanks Challenge<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho0K3vHVxF-2oJQgML58VOssjpPBFRycv409R5FVrXJmWU6-rUq7YWZlDjJloy3xCZTWEWJqvXArqL8yznToUSqZaSbglkygsmpymzoz9Q5BJUX9o4qhccZCskh1PjL41TfHBjJ9J8ugJv/s1600/n639002233_1481952_4008.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho0K3vHVxF-2oJQgML58VOssjpPBFRycv409R5FVrXJmWU6-rUq7YWZlDjJloy3xCZTWEWJqvXArqL8yznToUSqZaSbglkygsmpymzoz9Q5BJUX9o4qhccZCskh1PjL41TfHBjJ9J8ugJv/s320/n639002233_1481952_4008.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taken from Ajay K's Pics</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Today I am thankful for our Veterans. Many of the men (for some reason, not many women) in my family have served in the U.S. Military. I also have many friends who have served (or serving) as well.<br />
<br />
Grandpa Simpson - United States Army<br />
Uncle Stuart - United States Air Force<br />
Uncle Scott - United States Air Force<br />
Grandpa Henriott - United States Navy<br />
My Father - United States Air Force<br />
Uncle Ken - United States Marines<br />
Uncle Floyd - United States Marines<br />
<br />
Keri Gernand (her Husband) - US Army <br />
Bethany Whiting (her Husband) - US Army<br />
<br />
<br />
Tiffany Voris (her Husband) - US Army<br />
Adam Eri - US Marines<br />
Kelly Elleman (her Husband) - US Army<br />
Stephanie Hineline (her Husband) US Marines<br />
Ajay J. Koovackal - US Air Force<br />
Carlos Villaverde - US Air Force<br />
Krystal Wolfe - US Coast Guard <br />
<br />
And I am sure there are others. THANK YOU for serving our country and helping maintain and protect the freedom that we all take for granted. I am thankful for all of you. <br />
<br />Crystalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03574293824316769676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4992755575401736534.post-75576439441847689562011-11-10T00:30:00.000-05:002011-11-14T13:55:15.521-05:00Day 10 of the 30 Days of Thanks Challenge<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmKuzYge5rVpPRy1RRM1GVRPFdZ_OlWTuTUPP9dr0ZFWz5qw42Zh4wMp_g-mae6_wAOeQrKN15pNc22nhEp4_Rdd3rwQEyKjrS4x5ZO4OHveOBkPcDsOC895Jwk3ubp00507jmVDqKx6rx/s640/blogger-image-777713385.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmKuzYge5rVpPRy1RRM1GVRPFdZ_OlWTuTUPP9dr0ZFWz5qw42Zh4wMp_g-mae6_wAOeQrKN15pNc22nhEp4_Rdd3rwQEyKjrS4x5ZO4OHveOBkPcDsOC895Jwk3ubp00507jmVDqKx6rx/s320/blogger-image-777713385.jpg" width="320" /></a>Today I am thankful for crisp cold air, the colors of autumn, and Rae's chicken noodle soup!<br />
<br />
We made it up to Alabama yesterday after a drive that seemed to take forever and a day. I finally got to meet (yes, in staying with somebody I've never actually met before, get with the times people! Just because I met them online doesn't mean they are pretend.) my friend Rae. I'm thankful that she took the chance on me and let me stay in her home. Which is so warm and welcoming, by the way. I'm thankful for her hospitality and for her cooking. I'm thankful that Addison gets the opportunity to play with somebody else all day while we are here. Seeing her interact with her has been so fun to watch. <br />
<br />
This trip has been so wonderful and refreshing. I have met good people, had good food, and have really enjoyed ourselves. I'm thankful for these moments!Crystalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03574293824316769676noreply@blogger.com0Huntsville Huntsville34.74612 -86.557309tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4992755575401736534.post-16721909423620012192011-11-09T10:26:00.000-05:002011-11-11T00:23:19.536-05:00Day 9 of the 30 Days of Thanks Challenge<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v167/meadarkangel/abstracts%20and%20photography/Misc%20Items/937a4381.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v167/meadarkangel/abstracts%20and%20photography/Misc%20Items/937a4381.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>Today I am thankful for all forms of transportation. With out it I wouldn't be able to travel and see my family and It could take days to get to the doctor. I love being able to hop in my car and quickly go to the store to pick up the one thing I forgot (and it's always an unsubstitutable, key, item!) I'm thankful for the plane that brought my Grandmother to us, the car that allowed my cousins and aunt to come down.<br />
<br />
I use a car every single day. I've taken multiple plane rides across the country and even the world. Trains have allowed me to get to my parents house when I was one car family and my husband had to work. They have also brought my mom down to me multiple times. The most recent one was a same day trip down when I miscarried. <br />
<br />
<br />
Today I am on my way up to my friend Rae's house. It is an 11.5 hour drive. Through multiple big cities and a huge stretch of major interstate. I am thankful that I can make that trip in less than a day. It will be a LONG day, but isn't it amazing that we can do this in ONE DAY! This trip is about 660 miles. Could you imagine doing that on a horse? Or even on FOOT?<br />
<br />
It's the little things we do that seem not so big a deal, that really make the difference in our life. I am thankful for those little things. <br />
<br />
<br />
Crystalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03574293824316769676noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4992755575401736534.post-56792801401264401912011-11-07T10:55:00.000-05:002011-11-14T13:48:43.663-05:00Day 8 of the 30 Days of Thanks Challenge<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<span id="goog_1958001191"></span><span id="goog_1958001192"></span><br />
<div style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhogKrPyPtquQP2sOSEK07fsch5DYiqE3juMcroUeUIGuLRmWmVSkcKveyaxs2-6wq54wYzJOVoCvNCaljY7dk9_ZTPJl_et0RdrSw0nn48KmLoug8Xxs1Y2_I99v0GNqEoWB0vJgXuU4fq/s1600/309058_10100497656773681_5000798_54275007_45778107_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhogKrPyPtquQP2sOSEK07fsch5DYiqE3juMcroUeUIGuLRmWmVSkcKveyaxs2-6wq54wYzJOVoCvNCaljY7dk9_ZTPJl_et0RdrSw0nn48KmLoug8Xxs1Y2_I99v0GNqEoWB0vJgXuU4fq/s400/309058_10100497656773681_5000798_54275007_45778107_n.jpg" width="225" /></a>Today I am thankful for family. I am thankful to be able to see them, talk to them, and to hug them. Being in their presence really warms my heart and just calms me.<br />
Today I got the opportunity to visit visit with my Grandmother. I'm so thankful she was able to come down between her chemo treatments. I haven't seen her since my wedding in 2008. <br />
I'm thankful that I have such a wonderful family. We seek each other out and we want to spend time with one another. I, an thankful that the are such huggy people too. There is nothing better than a strong warm hug from your family.<br />
I'm thankful for this time and I quash I could just hit pause for a while and stay in this moment. I never realize how much I miss my family until go home and find that I cant just go back and see then any time that I want.<br />
<br /></div>Crystalhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03574293824316769676noreply@blogger.com0