tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-333512332024-03-05T07:49:25.296-07:00Just trying to keep up!You know; with kids, family, work, scrapbooking, photography, etc.Carrie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04393328702066930695noreply@blogger.comBlogger629125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33351233.post-15113786298427536632019-02-04T11:53:00.002-07:002019-02-04T11:53:48.617-07:00Give yourself a break<br />
Give yourself a break.<br />
This is the statement I've heard a couple of times this week.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm5ak9tsKJv5SZ2J0PHpJetAG6GmiAa2G_2n5GKT2EVDrC4tLD4ahqhGQAbN-HUonGhJ3h8YDHLyMbIbMEYcEHpRqP2JdZXr9myh43inunVf_Y5EqS15MG2HbPnpR5-i8mvnQj/s1600/20181027_100258.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm5ak9tsKJv5SZ2J0PHpJetAG6GmiAa2G_2n5GKT2EVDrC4tLD4ahqhGQAbN-HUonGhJ3h8YDHLyMbIbMEYcEHpRqP2JdZXr9myh43inunVf_Y5EqS15MG2HbPnpR5-i8mvnQj/s320/20181027_100258.jpg" width="240" /></a>It's not easy to hear or do, sigh, but something has got to give.<br />
Last spring when everything went to crap with my she shed and activity slowed to a crawl I became depressed, angry and self abusive. I've gained about 30 lbs and my self esteem went down the drain. I fought the battle of the bulge but I didn't do the mental work to deal with the roots of my issues so when crap hit the fan all the yuck came up. I have tried to work on me with self help and leadership books. I started following positivism accounts on Instagram. I read bible verses, I prayed, I grieved.<br />
Yesterday, Rob asked me when was the last time I read for fun, did anything for fun, being post monthly time all I wanted to do was cry.<br />
How do you give yourself a break? How do you let the truth sink in? The truth that you are perfectly and wonderfully made and that some of your wiring needs to be updated.<br />
I sit in this, not knowing whats my next step, most days are good and I fake it till I make it other days my head stays down, I become quiet and more introspective.<br />
There is a small quiet voice that says if I can let go, the weight will come off, I'll feel better and be more productive in the long run.<br />
So this morning I grabbed a "good" book that my mom gave me and will begin reading for fun.<br />
My mind is already trying to busy myself up with my "have to do's".<br />
I really don't need to read more self help books, they're all starting to say the same thing. I just need to feel them, accept the truth, does that make any sense. The answers are in me, with me but nothing is penetrating this mire of crap I'm sitting in.<br />
<br />
*Carrie*
<script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>Carrie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04393328702066930695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33351233.post-87235228712280550272019-01-29T10:06:00.001-07:002019-01-29T10:06:41.093-07:00One little word 2019My word this year didn't come easy, nothing felt right and as others started sharing their words I wondered when mine would appear.<br />
Unfortunately, I don't remember what triggered me but the word THRIVE popped in my head. A little back story. A few weeks ago I broke down on my husband. Several things had come to a head and I lost it. I said to him that this, where we are at right now can't be the best we'll get, I want more for us. I want better/more for me. I don't want to survive, and roll with the punches, maybe that's what triggered me. There is a song by Casting Crowns call Thrive, there is a lyric that says, " we were made for so much more than ordinary lives, its time for us to more than just survive, we were made to thrive.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFLBnPt7lIXn7HULgaQ-ssQh01avZWYfudX_w9ivFwdds3ZaTzeLzpSwMJy5mL-ADDBBT06S0q5JXfl9-f1ggkBG1cTwkfkcGCe6dTNrlSay-a5FCrYUgawF8y4gTJCknlmkrQ/s1600/LRM_EXPORT_1820749280532182_20190120_165627030.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="398" data-original-width="398" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiFLBnPt7lIXn7HULgaQ-ssQh01avZWYfudX_w9ivFwdds3ZaTzeLzpSwMJy5mL-ADDBBT06S0q5JXfl9-f1ggkBG1cTwkfkcGCe6dTNrlSay-a5FCrYUgawF8y4gTJCknlmkrQ/s320/LRM_EXPORT_1820749280532182_20190120_165627030.jpeg" width="320" /></a>Thrive by definition means to grow vigorously: flourish to prosper. To progress toward or realize a goal despite or because of circumstances.<br />
<br />
It's time to take what I've learned and grown from and push past the fear and take action on my dreams.<br />
I didn't make any resolutions but I've started this year actively trying to learn, grown and change. I'm starting with Mel Robbins Mindset Reset a 30 day program with steps to change my hindering beliefs. I'm also working with a women's group from church on the Keys to Freedom study. This has us working on the roots of her hindering beliefs.<br />
I'm working on making this a trans formative year. I plan to finish my studio, I want to try my hand at making You Tube videos and generally be more creative.<br />
I sometimes doubt my gut instinct and I ask for conformation. Confirmation was received one afternoon as I was walking on the treadmill and listening to an inspirational talk from Tony Robbins and Les Brown called, "I can, I will, I must. By the end of his video the passion and desire to pursue my dreams was like a fast spreading wildfire. I was goose bump excited.<br />
I'm taking daily steps to work towards my goals and I'm doing the research on all the stuff I don't know how to do yet, got to love Google, information overload, lol.<br />
I'm making this year my best year. I'm going to thrive.<br />
<br />
*Carrie*
<script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>Carrie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04393328702066930695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33351233.post-29210008943795832122019-01-06T18:34:00.001-07:002019-01-06T18:34:21.575-07:00Level 41!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8cq5ZqnxuJtFzZWNn_34eh5SCZ3mRxd76V2IXs-SWprp2L0CbOq_iO1a2xfr1eyRHaHOk0Q-7nyEqxR5tm9oICOtqkoiT8GzmMvdS7l0F7IAqB6yVE9N7bJmQoxoG2m4it9lD/s1600/20190105_192738.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8cq5ZqnxuJtFzZWNn_34eh5SCZ3mRxd76V2IXs-SWprp2L0CbOq_iO1a2xfr1eyRHaHOk0Q-7nyEqxR5tm9oICOtqkoiT8GzmMvdS7l0F7IAqB6yVE9N7bJmQoxoG2m4it9lD/s320/20190105_192738.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Last night we celebrated my brother Mike's 41st birthday.<br />
I read somewhere that instead of being 41 years old, you now say you've reached Level 41. This sounds much cooler.<br />
We celebrated with food from Illegal Pete's Mexican and a Costco cake.<br />
Getting together is always nice. The kids and Rob played a card game called Relative Insanity, a somewhat cleaner version and like Cards against humanity. The rest of us listened to the card game and watched the Cowboys win over the Seahawks.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
I've been sitting here staring at these pictures and I'm thinking about my intentions regarding family this year. Maybe its the fact that this is round two of cancer for my brother and I'm scared. It could it be that every year we talk about spending more time together and we always peter off and only see each other on birthdays.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4BJYO6TWm2xpWsDJN3umWAYSX8xqmxlZi2jtGMIeVExL5C_eLQKLCl4Gzh9R1zvb7uW7QAPrRcUIT5RL1xlMa7OGvQx7X2nXyi8j8qUGVVKGNC9qYKgwJAAPFS_fCeuxaUB5M/s1600/20190105_192540.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4BJYO6TWm2xpWsDJN3umWAYSX8xqmxlZi2jtGMIeVExL5C_eLQKLCl4Gzh9R1zvb7uW7QAPrRcUIT5RL1xlMa7OGvQx7X2nXyi8j8qUGVVKGNC9qYKgwJAAPFS_fCeuxaUB5M/s320/20190105_192540.jpg" width="240" /></a>Whatever the case may be will I be able to look back and say I did my best?<br />
I'm very thankful that we enjoy being with my brother and his family, its just trying to coordinate all our schedules which leads to me wanting to pull my hair out at times, lol.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Carrie*
<script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>Carrie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04393328702066930695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33351233.post-81645547174654926892019-01-01T19:20:00.004-07:002019-01-01T19:20:57.379-07:00Goodbye 2018, Hello 2019! I thought 2018 was going to be my year. Amazing changes and dreams realized.<br />
I was going to build my dream studio, we were going to finally landscape the back yard and have our own "oasis". I had planned to have Kelly's sweet 16 party in our backyard. I prayed and asked God to make my plans his plans. I was using Proverbs 16:3. As we built the shed I put prayers on a wall studs on each side and a quote on creativity under that.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ9BF4TnIi6NEzkgosCmvKhIdNzfMtR6E9SECcvhOXV_ntal_RUXcglgpHlniUAA70dc8na9VWbWwfRoIHMPA2DDp9_IJ-rCQhGG6PbEXnSl8GHIwKtkN35mEtoG0Uqs5yDm81/s1600/20180707_135900.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="778" data-original-width="1600" height="155" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJ9BF4TnIi6NEzkgosCmvKhIdNzfMtR6E9SECcvhOXV_ntal_RUXcglgpHlniUAA70dc8na9VWbWwfRoIHMPA2DDp9_IJ-rCQhGG6PbEXnSl8GHIwKtkN35mEtoG0Uqs5yDm81/s320/20180707_135900.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
The year started out with some much promise, by April I was in tears. Plans changed, then changed again. Compromise and heartbreak. My shed went from 16x16 to 12x16. Believe me its a big enough difference, and then I ran out of money to finish. I cried, I prayed. It's still not finished. It's still raw to talk about. I'm trying not to cry as I type this.<br />
I blame myself and I have continued to punish myself for it.<br />
I have gained 20+ lbs this past year. I've learned that I'm an emotional eater and that I'm not as strong mentally as I believed. I let people into my head and that really messed me up. I made excuses instead of getting mad, figuring things out and pushing through.<br />
I started reading self help books and yes, they helped get some of my groove back.<br />
More curve balls came.<br />
I found out around August that my brother has stomach cancer, stage 3 and they're giving him 50% survival rate. The financial burden has been horrendous strain on his family and my mom. In November we got more bad news about another family member that I can't discuss.<br />
This feeling of having no control has made me an emotional mess.<br />
As I type this I can feel the desire to learn from the horrible year that was 2018, actually its been on my mind since the day after Christmas because I want to release all the negativity, I want to build myself stronger, grow closer to God and I want to move forward.<br />
This year, no resolutions.<br />
I plan to take each day with praise, grace and hope. I plan to make small changes that will benefit me and mine but no resolutions.<br />
My journey, which I choose to accept, is my great big adventure. I only get one shot at life and damn do I want it to be a good one. I am learning and exploring. Sounds vague, I know, but I plan to go into deeper details later.<br />
May 2019 be filled with redemption, healing and to thrive.<br />
Oh, I think I just found my word for 2019. THRIVE.<br />
<br />
(PS- photo of shed taken in July 2018)<br />
*Carrie*
<script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>Carrie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04393328702066930695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33351233.post-62404520545355334182018-01-07T14:52:00.001-07:002018-01-07T14:52:25.684-07:00Peace<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-lh0ZpG5cqBZ_a9VMZgmOPEIPTAkJshRTfFCT2mzeBy7FKthBltVt6V-eJD2kVJhh68Jnt_FGsiVnTsHYStn4p-Cnrk8s5g9j-AKwDzL0j5izPfr9XU5cYIzJYUZTc92SS3BG/s1600/20171230_084242.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-lh0ZpG5cqBZ_a9VMZgmOPEIPTAkJshRTfFCT2mzeBy7FKthBltVt6V-eJD2kVJhh68Jnt_FGsiVnTsHYStn4p-Cnrk8s5g9j-AKwDzL0j5izPfr9XU5cYIzJYUZTc92SS3BG/s320/20171230_084242.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
This week has been a emotional roller coaster.<br />
I've made a commitment to myself to be more positive, to be more grateful for the things that transpire in my life. That positive commitment has been challenged and like most people would I didn't like how I reacted.<br />
We began a new contract at work and our raise, for the foreseeable next 5 years is 13 cents. Wasn't what any of us were expecting. Having to deal with the disappointment and co workers complaining hasn't helped the negative feelings that already exude from some of my co workers. Trying very hard not to fall into that trap.<br />
My other trigger came yesterday when we went to our Girl Scout cookie kickoff.<br />
The lines for the activities and narrow space in which to maneuver, with bitchy type A moms just put me in a hyper critical mood. Of course then started the self bashing, which thankfully I quickly nixed.<br />
I took it to God, asked for forgiveness and asked myself why it bothers me so much. That is something I'm still processing.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcTnabTG_Zqyu6P19kM1joYGfY2tVfYDUluB5uIOwSBsmQ1XzZ6NmbnrN5IVmME9JJtNWZBr6cITJv9ivhbRt5zb3hC4M92NoVcJfRBaai9_39JJ2T_wyzJT5oIUSFJWiv1ZWH/s1600/20171230_084220.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcTnabTG_Zqyu6P19kM1joYGfY2tVfYDUluB5uIOwSBsmQ1XzZ6NmbnrN5IVmME9JJtNWZBr6cITJv9ivhbRt5zb3hC4M92NoVcJfRBaai9_39JJ2T_wyzJT5oIUSFJWiv1ZWH/s320/20171230_084220.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
I didn't take my frustrations out on people but I complained about everything. I don't like when I become that person and all I can do is continue to grow and be better.<br />
<br />
This first week of the new year is over and I am doing very well on my goals. Here's to staying strong and making myself proud.<br />
<br />
Our Christmas Amaryllis has bloomed and was so pretty, I really liked the variegated pink instead of the traditional red.<br />
This week the kids go back to school, scouts starts back up and cookie season starts Saturday, and I'm also planning on working some overtime to help pay for my shed. Plans are moving forward and shifting too. Instead of 12x20, it may be 16x16. Thankfully Rob is getting on board answering all my questions and giving me even more ideas.<br />
I'm getting very excited.<br />
Here's to continued growth, consistent blogging, and beauty around every corner.<br />
Carrie<br />
<script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>Carrie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04393328702066930695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33351233.post-47684631960981359382018-01-01T18:55:00.000-07:002018-01-01T18:55:53.700-07:00Happy New Year 2018Last night as we rang in the new year with fireworks, the neighborhood thundered with other families doing the same. Besides smoke from the fireworks there was something in the air. It felt magical.<br />
This morning I sat down and wrote in my journal for the first time since October 2016, wow, seriously?<br />
As I wrote, really messy too, I came upon a realization. My blog is going to be about me and mine not about trying to grow a possible blog following. I need to go back to or find new ways to love my blog.<br />
This leads me to my one little word, except right now I have two. Focus and Intention.<br />
This is my mind set right now.<br />
My Goals, Dreams, Manifestations for 2018:<br />
I'm driving myself crazy with the plans for a 12x20 gambrel shed. Happily crazy, excited, can't wait to start building. This shed brings me a bigger craft room and even more importantly, my girls will have their own room. My plan is to have them in there by March/April.<br />
My second GDM is to put myself back in charge of my health again and get back on track. This past year has been stagnant, granted I gained 10 lbs but some of that is muscle. Losing weight stopped and trying different things hasn't helped my mindset. So the plan is to get back to where I started with my diet of hope. Meal planning, watching what I put in my mouth and not let outside influences make me compromise. <br />
Also, my plans are to go to the gym 160 times this year. Granted I plan on sticking to my normal routine which will exceed 160 times but I'm giving myself grace if needed.<br />
My last big GDM is to work with the family on our back yard. Kelly is turning 16 this fall and our dream is to be able to host it in our backyard. We've made a list of things that need to be/ want to get done.<br />
My last GDM and the most important is to focus on my relationship with God. Today's daily verse spoke to me, it was Isaiah 43:19. After my quiet time I hit Instagram and the positive affirmation pages I follow just confirmed my feelings.<br />
I'm proud of myself, I am loved, I believe in myself and I will walk in my strengths, I will love others as best as I can and encourage others to do the same.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Carrie*
<script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>Carrie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04393328702066930695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33351233.post-68156003524901418842017-10-10T14:39:00.000-07:002017-10-10T14:39:07.117-07:00Fall holiday hike<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt_cd7-aBD9Rs9wnFQk3YHEwXbpIvzmqHwmAUyN6OpFAD4dwAzpHTunoCFIaWOG9Ltrir39WjeHBlfaAwxgV0D-KF8lMaei9ATQWkuw6YpFOTCGJMHA6qJuVcMkZjnv7Nwyauf/s1600/20171009_101802.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt_cd7-aBD9Rs9wnFQk3YHEwXbpIvzmqHwmAUyN6OpFAD4dwAzpHTunoCFIaWOG9Ltrir39WjeHBlfaAwxgV0D-KF8lMaei9ATQWkuw6YpFOTCGJMHA6qJuVcMkZjnv7Nwyauf/s320/20171009_101802.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
Yesterday we went up to Mt. Lemmon to go on a nature walk at the Aspen trail and to see the fall colors.<br />
While it may be 90+ degrees down in Tucson, Mt. Lemmon was a refreshing 60.<br />
And while the leaves aren't at their peak yet, they're still beautiful to behold.<br />
<br />
I really should have grabbed more leaves and pine cones on our walk.<br />
<br />
I think I'm going to call this picture the stop light tree. Obviously you can see why.<br />
Being on the mountain and walking on the trails brings such a sense of peace.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeyBD5REzwP_tVRjxVdgIDvVSu-k7khZex6nYbxR6ZWn1MpM_uV9G3Vh5WIoQQsuUw3wWfiaS9oFpzjBSAMWcf4O-sk4B5vaC_bikicbcRG5pp1ZUl3dQR3ePD16ZxJJ3pxVUZ/s1600/20171009_112242.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeyBD5REzwP_tVRjxVdgIDvVSu-k7khZex6nYbxR6ZWn1MpM_uV9G3Vh5WIoQQsuUw3wWfiaS9oFpzjBSAMWcf4O-sk4B5vaC_bikicbcRG5pp1ZUl3dQR3ePD16ZxJJ3pxVUZ/s320/20171009_112242.jpg" width="320" /></a>At first Wyatt was grumpy, I can't blame him, he had just done a 10 mile hike the day before with the boy scouts and was sore and sunburned. He later confessed that we were driving him crazy with all the stopping. That's when I explained to think of this as a nature walk and not a hike, to look around and enjoy.<br />
By the end of our nature walk Wyatt was in a good mood but Chelsea was the one who was getting grumpy and wanted to go home.<br />
This picture of the kids is one that kinda cracks me up. When we started out on the walk we were wearing jackets, except Rob who never wears one, by the end of our walk we see us in three stages. Chelsea still wearing her jacket, Wyatt in his t-shirt and Kelly who is sporting a tank top. <br />
The weather was just right for the t shirt.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi41P1niUvlr3OKcRHEAwhZ8KZ_CKoBZPrlwbk8De8X5tlzE2p8-r6b-bKNL_jhjCpeDIIL317QS7fDqlZiTodl9pKYZ59gBe06HwCdh5uof-6RHUS4oxu5q9RvooCwNv7GJtO4/s1600/20171009_130114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi41P1niUvlr3OKcRHEAwhZ8KZ_CKoBZPrlwbk8De8X5tlzE2p8-r6b-bKNL_jhjCpeDIIL317QS7fDqlZiTodl9pKYZ59gBe06HwCdh5uof-6RHUS4oxu5q9RvooCwNv7GJtO4/s320/20171009_130114.jpg" width="320" /></a> After some rock climbing and Chelsea whining that she wanted more beef jerky and was hungry we headed for the truck.<br />
We tortured them by going up to Summerhaven and walking around the general store and then over to Ski Valley where we encountered 4 deer crossing the road.<br />
Now we didn't make them get out and walk, oh no, they got to eat snacks.I on the other hand hopped into the bed of the truck as we cruised down from the U of A observation station parking lot to ski valley, snapping pictures with my phone. I got plenty of finger pointing and weird looks from the people driving up that's for sure.<br />
Once we got back into town we swung by Carl's Jr for a late lunch and headed home to chill.<br />
<br /><script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>Carrie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04393328702066930695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33351233.post-80582075055545999832017-10-05T14:28:00.001-07:002017-10-05T14:28:26.388-07:00Cricut Make something you love- Phoenix<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGSIkbDH24uL13QbDAiJZdhMjlbiLGKXZHI5QgMK9o6E9RTuTyIfSnlYqHaRX5Beiz9q7xRPF61crPw_UY23gsg3pQI1UnD-STEV3PYBx9lHSYCU7oOHYrARKpYZIMqbfHrilo/s1600/20170926_140259.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGSIkbDH24uL13QbDAiJZdhMjlbiLGKXZHI5QgMK9o6E9RTuTyIfSnlYqHaRX5Beiz9q7xRPF61crPw_UY23gsg3pQI1UnD-STEV3PYBx9lHSYCU7oOHYrARKpYZIMqbfHrilo/s320/20170926_140259.jpg" width="180" /></a>Last week, me and two friends, Julie and Jill, drove up to Phoenix to attend the Cricut Make Something You Love event that introduces us to the new <a href="https://home.cricut.com/cricut-maker" target="_blank">Cricut Maker</a> machine. <script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br />
Not only did we get to see the Maker in action and try it out, we also go to play with the <a href="https://shop.cricut.com/en_us/cricut-easypress-sky.html" target="_blank">Easy Press</a> and the <a href="https://shop.cricut.com/en_us/essentials/brightpad.html" target="_blank">Bright Pad</a>. The event was held in this cool art gallery that complimented the Cricut vibe that was going on.<br />
I was super excited about being there and was hoping it was the push I needed to get my creative juices flowing. It was.<br />
Something about that day sparked me, and its really hard to put into words.<br />
I think one of the things it boils down to is that I miss what I once had, and that was being a stay at home mom.<br />
Like many other moms I need to work to support my family, and the time that I used to create and write on my blog were now working hours and that put my creative life on the back burner, way back on the burner.<br />
Creating in the evenings when the family was home was hard on them and me. Just writing about it I can feel the swirls of emotion.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC37Ivt1-kWGT4sZ9t7iT3FynodBU79GSnI_1Zudr4usImxANIKNwKjnYxuPYmxhf_OeZUDvmeHtwSwUZRmGnSjaogtcpSVwPmbRpwANJhw7deG2OeLAGJicHWlcK9y110nZ0M/s1600/20170926_122050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgC37Ivt1-kWGT4sZ9t7iT3FynodBU79GSnI_1Zudr4usImxANIKNwKjnYxuPYmxhf_OeZUDvmeHtwSwUZRmGnSjaogtcpSVwPmbRpwANJhw7deG2OeLAGJicHWlcK9y110nZ0M/s320/20170926_122050.jpg" width="179" /></a>To this day I keep praying for an answer to how I go about having a larger craft room, one that can accommodate the kids if they want to hang with me or even the hubby.<br />
Added on top of that is my youngest asking to have her own room. Big fat sigh. I would love to be able to give her her own space, but where would I put everything?<br />
I'm already overflowing the room.<br />
Anyway, during one of our conversations my friend Julie remarked how I needed to start blogging again.<br />
She is right.<br />
So, even if its only short snippets I'm going to keep updating.<br />
<br />
BACK TO THE CRICUT MAKER, there are so many opportunities that I can foresee using this machine. the capabilities of the knife blade for balsa wood and the rotary for fabric have my mind going in all sorts of fun directions.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpcLKbjzY2ibJNL7yF1aRVV0fsCVyG6Du1AsE-N_KZmfqJl-7i9WB36OQvxHvyGSQrwyAtY405hOW6-inb8-dDBuX_7M6mS5j4mJSx01wxD2rjhdTVFClXB8Fjvo_LYda0NXLA/s1600/20170926_102637.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpcLKbjzY2ibJNL7yF1aRVV0fsCVyG6Du1AsE-N_KZmfqJl-7i9WB36OQvxHvyGSQrwyAtY405hOW6-inb8-dDBuX_7M6mS5j4mJSx01wxD2rjhdTVFClXB8Fjvo_LYda0NXLA/s320/20170926_102637.jpg" width="180" /></a>While I've had my eye on getting a heat press, I know, I have no room whatsoever, the easy press was something I felt more comfortable with. It's lightweight, super stinking easy to use and from a brand that I trust.<br />
It's definitely on my Christmas list.<br />
Plus, it will finally get me to use the iron on vinyl that I've been hoarding, because I was too nervous to use my iron and the vinyl not staying on.<br />
I really want that Easy Press.<br />
I've had a Cricut since the first machine, my baby bug that was 6 x 12 to now having the original Explore. I've demonstrated it as an employee of Jo-Ann's to being a part of the Cricut Demo Army back in 2010. There is something about this company that has never pushed me away and that has continued to challenge me as a crafter to explore new avenues and techniques.<br />
<br />
I believe my dream job would be to work from home creating anything that makes people smile and that fulfills that creative need that I have to give back and show homemade kindness whether that is creating cards, party decor, home decor or anything else my imagination whips up.<br />
Until such time, I will do my best to carve out what time I can and fulfill that creative need as best as I can. Much love, Carrie<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Carrie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04393328702066930695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33351233.post-27496082665296264462017-06-07T20:38:00.000-07:002017-06-07T20:38:46.438-07:00<script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>Welcome back Carrie! What's been going on?<br />
Work got busy so I couldn't blog during the day and most nights I'm asleep around 9pm.<br />
I must say these are the hardest posts to type, so much has been going on and I have missed months of keeping track, I just don't know where to start.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJfQII7VhM-hoEjsbdRZHxGP0bFDMvc2y93SGKss6Y8T_9I2IQAoonMqnbgwIr_9pNJXefPZNbdtvheWUDKjhSfhp9nPNTEZ_ne_oINygUvXnTqVLLXLxZN4q0gZg2gCw-DJq6/s1600/20170603_062824.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="900" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJfQII7VhM-hoEjsbdRZHxGP0bFDMvc2y93SGKss6Y8T_9I2IQAoonMqnbgwIr_9pNJXefPZNbdtvheWUDKjhSfhp9nPNTEZ_ne_oINygUvXnTqVLLXLxZN4q0gZg2gCw-DJq6/s320/20170603_062824.jpg" width="180" /></a><br />
Since January I've gained about 5lbs. I'm not sure how much is muscle but it seems like every time I have a cheat meal I gain a pound of concrete that doesn't want to come back off. To combat the gain I've started working out in more of a HIIT style and I've still gained more weight. I can honestly say I'm struggling and lost right now. <br />
So did I get back into my wedding dress for my 20th anniversary? No, I was still about an inch or two short in the back to get it buttoned up. Rob said I would have ripped the dress but it was close. I'm not giving up though, from what I've been able to see, from the profile I follow on Instagram it may take another year or two to get my body where I want to be. <br />
<br />
Another thing I have been working on is reading different self help books. I tend to find them fun and interesting. I've written down some questions that I truly need to meditate on to see if this is the way I'm being guided. One question I have is, if blogging is something that I think about and take notes on and pin ideas on Pinterest, quite often actually, is this what I'm supposed to be doing? Am I ready to re- commit to blogging again like I used too?<br />
I've been thinking about my strengths and the skills that I've used over the years and I'm trying to see where it may be leading me. I have revisited an idea that I've had and now I'm trying to see if I'm willing to see it through to the next step. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitf0Ux7jwgxC_VC7jpEgBJP1d4cF7_vhYFmuDiuMxdXgyLl2Ags3GpPWlcsouO4Sl6ducDsWU1njvsvm86mHVLJWDthR9edLLsqS4Yb21k-MAXR5GomV_KGeAMaZKSdAGSw-yU/s1600/20170520_080421.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="900" data-original-width="1600" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitf0Ux7jwgxC_VC7jpEgBJP1d4cF7_vhYFmuDiuMxdXgyLl2Ags3GpPWlcsouO4Sl6ducDsWU1njvsvm86mHVLJWDthR9edLLsqS4Yb21k-MAXR5GomV_KGeAMaZKSdAGSw-yU/s320/20170520_080421.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
Where is my path leading to?<br />
I will start by saying that I really enjoy my job, and the opportunities that it has provided our family.<br />
Creatively I am suffering. <br />
I have a room full of stuff that I haven't been using and to be honest there is some guilt associated with having all that money spent on craft supplies not being used and the fact that Chelsea keeps asking for her own room. True, she also keeps asking when are we going to move into a bigger home too. <br />
Anyway, I'm hoping to alleviate my creative woes soon and have a partner or two to help keep me motivated. I will also meditate and pray over my path and ask for some guidance.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
Carrie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04393328702066930695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33351233.post-14944554259595638482017-03-11T21:25:00.000-07:002017-03-11T21:25:39.102-07:00<div style="text-align: left;">
My valentines were a huge hit and I still need to find a way to transfer pictures from my main pc to my google account so that I have access to everything and incorporate more photos into my blog. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Work has finally begun to pick up and I enjoy being busy. Granted it doesn't leave me any time to blog during the day, so I'm trying it out on my tablet while I hang with the family watching tv at night.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNH0udrckR2zYWwFDLOri0TzMPWli8zB2DjqumyI-4-VKTmjvFxr6rM0r_SG0QP_XZgcc8rjuTcfoWsFVGu5cxNGg6ZguTW7Ze1EYaGpreukm3E5SkKKEcmSvAj4NF_cao3bKK/s1600/20170304_085530.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/AVvXsEhNH0udrckR2zYWwFDLOri0TzMPWli8zB2DjqumyI-4-VKTmjvFxr6rM0r_SG0QP_XZgcc8rjuTcfoWsFVGu5cxNGg6ZguTW7Ze1EYaGpreukm3E5SkKKEcmSvAj4NF_cao3bKK/s320/20170304_085530.jpg" width="320" /></a> On Wednesday we finished up another girl scout cookie season. Chelsea sold about 425 cookies and it was her best year emotionally, We had very little in the way of breakdowns and whining. She is really learning how to work with the other girls but she struggles at listening to what the customers want. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This year I wasn't the cookie mom and it made the season fly by with very little stress. I'm still debating if I want to continue next year with girl scouts but we'll see how the rest of the spring and end of year stuff goes.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
This last month has been crazy, I've needed a root canal and found out that I need 3 crowns, thank you for double dental insurance. Hopefully the cost won't be crazy high. The suburban, or Sabrina as we call her, had some issues so we were late in getting her new registration until last night.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
Let's see, we found out that Mikey and his family are moving by the end of April. They're not moving too far away, just to Rita Ranch so that they stay in the Vail school district.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
We've had sleepovers and birthday parties. My house is a wreck and I have no motivation to do anything about it. I've tweaked a nerve in my back and have taken the last few days off at the gym hoping it will help. As frustrating as that is, my long term health is more important then to keep pushing myself where I can make my back issues worse.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
</div>
<br />Carrie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04393328702066930695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33351233.post-67384162574187113802017-02-13T14:46:00.000-07:002017-02-13T14:46:36.574-07:00Tomorrow is Valentines and my office has organized a good old fashioned party where we are handing out Valentines to each other and having a bag decorating contest.<br />
I have designed everything on my Cricut and tonight will cut everything out, put it all together. Nothing like waiting until the last minute to finish up, especially when I have been designing and making plans for two weeks. I will say that my valentines are based off of the create a critter cartridge and a quick search of animal puns. Since my time is short, I will once again use the print and cut feature with my machine. While not as impressive as piecing each animal together, I think with some added dimension I can make them stand out.<br />
<br />
I bought a couple of new toys that came in last week and I immediately loaned them out to my church for a video our pastors are shooting. I bought a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Photography-Portrait-Continuous-LimoStudio-LMS103/dp/B005FHZ2SI/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1487013738&sr=8-3&keywords=studio+lights" target="_blank">3 piece umbrella light set </a>and a softbox for a quick studio photography setup. Once I get them back I plan on taking them for a spin, I have already told the kids that we will be doing some portraits and I'm hoping to use it for taking pictures of things that I make. Wyatt is excited because he wants to use it for making videos on you tube. Yeah, we'll see about that. Who knows, maybe I'll start making videos. I think right now I'll start with taking better pictures first.<br />
I seem to have a renewed love for my photography and wanting to learn how to be more effective in editing and overall composition. We''ll see once I get the chance to set up and play around with the light set and then start working in photoshop elements to play with the images.<br />
One of the new products that I'm looking into getting is a <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Polaroid-Mobile-Printer-Printing-Technology/dp/B00XM0XZ5M/ref=sr_1_9?ie=UTF8&qid=1487013637&sr=8-9&keywords=POCKET+printer" target="_blank">pocket printer </a>from Amazon. It will be nice to have quick picks off my phone and to be able to create, when I do create, fun new sizes on my pages.<br />
Maybe my new found creativity has to do with a co worker who just bought a new DSLR camera after suffering through a point and shoot. Maybe its a new book from Amy Tangerine that has me wondering where to start again creatively. And maybe it could be that I don't want to work 7-3:30 five days a week. Whatever the case may be, I'm looking at the big guy upstairs and taking baby steps to get moving.Carrie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04393328702066930695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33351233.post-38571977181441389912017-02-03T12:05:00.001-07:002017-02-03T12:05:18.760-07:00Cub Scout blue and gold 2017<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp7l4kf53nEVF84-7d2WPtTu-34-Vldzm8HES0GIdO3nhiiORraG-Ic5QSBaLxL60qUadKjclzHK96A8lilEzLKGe2jzju8S0whmowFNCFlEEJK3zdxwTNIzc1HNLqSZYj0nUU/s1600/20170128_071742.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjp7l4kf53nEVF84-7d2WPtTu-34-Vldzm8HES0GIdO3nhiiORraG-Ic5QSBaLxL60qUadKjclzHK96A8lilEzLKGe2jzju8S0whmowFNCFlEEJK3zdxwTNIzc1HNLqSZYj0nUU/s320/20170128_071742.jpg" width="180" /></a>So I received a text Thursday night, could I make 10 centerpieces for the blue and gold ceremony that was on Saturday morning the 28th. Trish said to make it simple. Looking at my schedule, I agreed and during my breaks at work, I planned everything out. Even though Wyatt is no longer a cub scout, I still have friends whose boys are and I also had my Cricut cartridge <a href="https://shop.cricut.com/en_us/cartridges-images/licensed-designs/boy-scouts/do-your-best-for-cub-scouts.html" target="_blank">Do Your Best </a>that I had been wanting to use. Sadly the cartridge came out after Wyatt's Blue and Gold. Now I get to use it on his scrapbook.<br />
Another one of the new things that Cricut has done is create and app, that is still in beta testing, where I can create on my phone. Oh Hallelujah! I was able to start and name each project so that when I got home I could put in the final tweaks and hit go. Since I was on such a time crunch I opted for using the print and cut feature. YES! YES! YES! In less than two hours I was about 90% done with my work. I was so confident, I ran to Hobby Lobby to look for wood bases and, you know, anything else I may need.<br />
After I came home, Rob decided to get in on the fun by drilling holes in all the bases for me and Kelly helped by gluing most of the pieces together.<script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRXQtNgLv0gpwFTySG6d9Yj7l-rjmLTEJ37bc15lXaPybiQ5GekzPsOH8m6zZ37_YccTRx1D0szee9PuVuzMSXxe-iWDEkllEL5E2Gtc8QY2U4vdqanfCydD_6ww3ErJUEF0xF/s1600/20170128_072745.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRXQtNgLv0gpwFTySG6d9Yj7l-rjmLTEJ37bc15lXaPybiQ5GekzPsOH8m6zZ37_YccTRx1D0szee9PuVuzMSXxe-iWDEkllEL5E2Gtc8QY2U4vdqanfCydD_6ww3ErJUEF0xF/s320/20170128_072745.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
This fire was my biggest pain, it didn't want to stay glued together and then I added to the fun by painting with a thin layer of stickles glitter glue to give it more dimension. I had seen this project done on the Cricut website and it looked so easy, but man did I learn some lessons.<br />
I decided to make each table a theme and while I did run into some glitches, like how the bear, wolf and webelos signs would not flatten for print and cut and how also the space ship, boat and car wouldn't flatten for print and cut, made me rethink things.<br />
I also need to remind myself to edit my phone photos before I upload to google. Yikes, I need to crop. If I remember I'll edit and replace these guys.<br />
From what I've been told the centerpieces were a big hit and on a couple, people tried to walk away with the tent and the glass framed oath.<br />
I'll take that as a compliment.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht_YGnGgPMtff_rNiFqV17gVtZMrPGdbLMUC0v8gEHjI2SBn4hKxa-0eFHB2CCxzaVQ-q-S9OeEN2mWBCvOWORhT7b8dMUVgtPC5ak-lQ8908CXUBW5oQNTrj3nSZX0D_cN9IX/s1600/20170128_071655.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht_YGnGgPMtff_rNiFqV17gVtZMrPGdbLMUC0v8gEHjI2SBn4hKxa-0eFHB2CCxzaVQ-q-S9OeEN2mWBCvOWORhT7b8dMUVgtPC5ak-lQ8908CXUBW5oQNTrj3nSZX0D_cN9IX/s320/20170128_071655.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCbWx5aTFVQxsiY19KnznPAo4m8AEVnUNHAKyrxTKGVOHDtVS41Ll66tIOZSCGiW0o8W9ig1sLTNR7huysuUx1c2bemox-AwkiZqpmDdYzOvQTdOtu3X_Eh0IDNV7A64-Gng1d/s1600/20170128_071218.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCbWx5aTFVQxsiY19KnznPAo4m8AEVnUNHAKyrxTKGVOHDtVS41Ll66tIOZSCGiW0o8W9ig1sLTNR7huysuUx1c2bemox-AwkiZqpmDdYzOvQTdOtu3X_Eh0IDNV7A64-Gng1d/s320/20170128_071218.jpg" width="180" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4mk5ik8eAClSvV_H3qoVfBvJoPkuAgmKeLSVJWBf0MI_F5l6_7soMdpW_xdKc66WjPUCh6ZW9Nx3m-XCSGm3AUDB_6OAb_p49D5SOXn6V0Q4N4kYnjcQDDZhJH4Vf3Uwf19xb/s1600/20170128_071607.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4mk5ik8eAClSvV_H3qoVfBvJoPkuAgmKeLSVJWBf0MI_F5l6_7soMdpW_xdKc66WjPUCh6ZW9Nx3m-XCSGm3AUDB_6OAb_p49D5SOXn6V0Q4N4kYnjcQDDZhJH4Vf3Uwf19xb/s320/20170128_071607.jpg" width="180" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdwvQMZCln35sa__FfKO1uBVh4qwotp59pZqmvQGYueC4hKg72d4q6GBp3yi179QEtjh9vvbljkUPLPDQgLJDHr6Syye-ZtJHBtBKFsW8Dx5kneg2mCWGtwsq530Vz3S6OVxZ1/s1600/20170128_071456.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjdwvQMZCln35sa__FfKO1uBVh4qwotp59pZqmvQGYueC4hKg72d4q6GBp3yi179QEtjh9vvbljkUPLPDQgLJDHr6Syye-ZtJHBtBKFsW8Dx5kneg2mCWGtwsq530Vz3S6OVxZ1/s320/20170128_071456.jpg" width="180" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWkDo5liJKZpCXLQzAurhwldrKRujOvD-kCz6aYGA7AQQkL0u9aG15V1cQrllAX-XkR-uf1BVZfc4cUE2zDh4J9H6gzb59LCDAc3yd31VGRuTZsYyeh7bjsWyzGtP0TbkcLUei/s1600/20170128_071130.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWkDo5liJKZpCXLQzAurhwldrKRujOvD-kCz6aYGA7AQQkL0u9aG15V1cQrllAX-XkR-uf1BVZfc4cUE2zDh4J9H6gzb59LCDAc3yd31VGRuTZsYyeh7bjsWyzGtP0TbkcLUei/s320/20170128_071130.jpg" width="180" /></a><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF-89CGDm5MOSSFs_YqtdDuvWJlI6h6jbRVw8ZwmkTs0RA_STkuEF3GX78FIz-v2SqF1wyvuniXa61XiC-3lIaRK0l_4a8WWm9lVVGHlPgQ9WBTNFsJpjvmpTegTZPz2sqlR9K/s1600/20170128_071027.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjF-89CGDm5MOSSFs_YqtdDuvWJlI6h6jbRVw8ZwmkTs0RA_STkuEF3GX78FIz-v2SqF1wyvuniXa61XiC-3lIaRK0l_4a8WWm9lVVGHlPgQ9WBTNFsJpjvmpTegTZPz2sqlR9K/s320/20170128_071027.jpg" width="180" /></a><br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4d6UhlUKw7FN0aXs0iNvr_HF7j04oYWFArnE46pT18SiyxB0x_AFsB-i6lPpelCwDUJI0G-agC0z8oOXfMw6LDtwQ4lLTweHAf9NeZhThoZ8ItiuRGwMas9lGrIKnems4SCuQ/s1600/20170128_070929.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4d6UhlUKw7FN0aXs0iNvr_HF7j04oYWFArnE46pT18SiyxB0x_AFsB-i6lPpelCwDUJI0G-agC0z8oOXfMw6LDtwQ4lLTweHAf9NeZhThoZ8ItiuRGwMas9lGrIKnems4SCuQ/s320/20170128_070929.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixq3jousArkoPACyTH0s1dE_xogJ7YYFa5dP2h615le-SIZ9FzB6hbk161kK8WYmt_jyA0DwLaspNQpYEfEUxwnVBOvH6-gj1IceNOuI65uiSLb2fw3WpHMznYMxodMMmyg-AC/s1600/20170128_071338.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/AVvXsEixq3jousArkoPACyTH0s1dE_xogJ7YYFa5dP2h615le-SIZ9FzB6hbk161kK8WYmt_jyA0DwLaspNQpYEfEUxwnVBOvH6-gj1IceNOuI65uiSLb2fw3WpHMznYMxodMMmyg-AC/s320/20170128_071338.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEi0X0HnPWNTUXb9ZoiELxboxKj7NECDCuoc8E02aXIR5c3olJ12bgjWj7U9X_kzaTOTSiyLbWCggTRYnaV0-OSQfjXnmcUlHy9Md1Ifz6g-69XHIIKD4MtCd-QfIxx5-fwXTV/s1600/20170128_070746.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiEi0X0HnPWNTUXb9ZoiELxboxKj7NECDCuoc8E02aXIR5c3olJ12bgjWj7U9X_kzaTOTSiyLbWCggTRYnaV0-OSQfjXnmcUlHy9Md1Ifz6g-69XHIIKD4MtCd-QfIxx5-fwXTV/s320/20170128_070746.jpg" width="320" /></a><br />
Carrie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04393328702066930695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33351233.post-34146914199288466072017-02-02T10:46:00.000-07:002017-02-02T10:46:11.113-07:00They say its your birthday....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQg56e2FB2zbG7oqL0wL7qYYZV-aqVkalxmK0-2sdyH21mFBuDYZxXMegmqv0zMLHYp928uuK89u9zbY8hZzMUBHEIS_LuKQwp64u9ehkYCZNi_8MyBi4PH8L7QGuyRhyFs4rc/s1600/20170129_173548.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQg56e2FB2zbG7oqL0wL7qYYZV-aqVkalxmK0-2sdyH21mFBuDYZxXMegmqv0zMLHYp928uuK89u9zbY8hZzMUBHEIS_LuKQwp64u9ehkYCZNi_8MyBi4PH8L7QGuyRhyFs4rc/s320/20170129_173548.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
Happy 46th birthday to my Rob. You are now officially middle aged, lol.<br />
We celebrated with most of our family Sunday afternoon by going to a new restaurant, Lin's grand buffet where he grossed out Chelsea by eating the little octopus from his stir fry. We really liked the restaurant and everyone is talking about going back soon.<br />
On Tuesday, his actual birthday we gave him his gifts, some funko pop Star Wars characters, an AK-47 shirt and a copper pot. In lieu of cake, I had him stop off at Nadine's and pick up some of his favorite treats.<br />
Overall I think he had a pretty good day, but I always want to do more for him. He works hard and is such a great guy, we deserves the world.<br />
50 is just a few years away and my hope and prayer is to go ALL out for that one.<br />
<br />Carrie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04393328702066930695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33351233.post-53720435287388764922017-01-26T10:16:00.000-07:002017-01-26T10:16:16.233-07:00Rough patchI'm feeling lost and frustrated today. I have stressed out my back just enough that I can only do limited exercises. I so fear my back going out completely, that was utter hell that I don't want a repeat performance. My weight hit 223.2 this morning, the same weight I was at in October of 2016 when I started my new job. Gosh, I'm beating myself up. I know your weight fluctuates daily but I should be losing, not slowly gaining. I know that I need to calm the F***k down, but if only I understood what was going on and what do I need to do to change.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwJkGeljWctHL-PBaska8_Yv5cTMJwsyFckFp1ECL9t08m_0EDFcteV_pkV-ItKd3-vwF7kUpjCclGu8yVJapIzn1d_x431VcESPb2-roX79E0TeYunTcZUzYrj69AiA58fzzd/s1600/Screenshot_2017-01-19-05-49-52-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwJkGeljWctHL-PBaska8_Yv5cTMJwsyFckFp1ECL9t08m_0EDFcteV_pkV-ItKd3-vwF7kUpjCclGu8yVJapIzn1d_x431VcESPb2-roX79E0TeYunTcZUzYrj69AiA58fzzd/s320/Screenshot_2017-01-19-05-49-52-1.png" width="255" /></a>I keep telling myself that this is a plateau and eventually I'll bust through it, but mentally it is so hard. Can I truly love myself at this number, this size? I would like to think so but knowing that I'm so so close, the feeling of failure sits on my shoulder like a bad tattoo.<br />
So while I'm not giving up or giving in, I am having a mini pity party today.<br />
<br />
<script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>Carrie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04393328702066930695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33351233.post-74745227338596546472017-01-19T08:40:00.001-07:002017-01-19T08:40:54.961-07:00I snagged this picture off of Instagram, it a excerpt from a book by Stephen Covey, and for me if feels like a mission statement for the next four years. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4JwGZbv2297N9k1KGnw1o40ZPSHQaOFDvqBttBphTpIIgcyxdskLoqGQtfH3L0JHOVxUDfkdmWIMxqXTrYE5g8XfzEIABMu4KzBYYfy8pj3UxxzMmkcrwhJAr-ov5OXTnD990/s1600/Screenshot_2017-01-19-05-49-27-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4JwGZbv2297N9k1KGnw1o40ZPSHQaOFDvqBttBphTpIIgcyxdskLoqGQtfH3L0JHOVxUDfkdmWIMxqXTrYE5g8XfzEIABMu4KzBYYfy8pj3UxxzMmkcrwhJAr-ov5OXTnD990/s320/Screenshot_2017-01-19-05-49-27-1.png" width="320" /></a></div>
Tomorrow is the inauguration for our 45th president, Donald Trump. To say I'm nervous and a little scared is an understatement. What I choose to focus on is my hope. Hope that he will calm down and become a great leader, that he will improve the business side of our country, and find a way to unite us. That he will remain level headed and make America strong internationally. I didn't vote for either him or Hillary but I did vote. The people have spoken and I choose to respect the office of the President of the United States.<br />
<div>
I am not adept enough to go into all the reasons and underlying motivations I feel I see coming from not only the P.O.T.U.S but also the everyday American. The hate and disrespect that has been flowing around our country is totally unacceptable and goes to show how much we need to want to change ourselves, to show love and be love in a country screaming hate and being intolerant to each other. We need to stop standing on the sidelines and have each others back, to be respectful and give respect. If you're going to criticize have a possible solution. The secret to life is love, to love yourself and to love others. You may not like them personally, but to love them for what they may bring to this world. This will hopefully be my focus. </div>
<div>
I'm hearing that there will be a women's march on Washington DC the day after the inauguration, It's followed by Love Warriors like Glennon Doyle Melton and writers Brene Brown and Elizabeth Gilbert, there are artists, actors and athletes galore. I just went to <a href="http://www.womensmarch.com/">www.womensmarch.com</a> and saw the title of this march. Its called The rise of the woman = the rise of the nation. I encourage you to read their mission statement. Heck, I just may print it out for myself. </div>
<div>
I pray for our new administration, may they rise to their offices, and govern with wisdom and be a light for our world.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Carrie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04393328702066930695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33351233.post-51917255921028659992017-01-17T07:58:00.000-07:002017-01-17T07:58:08.028-07:00major non scale victoryYesterday I celebrated my one year Dr. Gann anniversary. That was the day that with help and accountability I took back control on my health.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKFnOX9xe17gfuoJSKa7rIdxD6p-i6SpEcd1E4dWVAG-yr8J75-2nkB_vA3UU-PwU8YSJpekpeo4HVVQbBbmAePc0mYUcmntVpjzkmRLKE0GzK9KoYZBmflgG2aOQuN7_g_Mx0/s1600/20161205_161843.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/AVvXsEhKFnOX9xe17gfuoJSKa7rIdxD6p-i6SpEcd1E4dWVAG-yr8J75-2nkB_vA3UU-PwU8YSJpekpeo4HVVQbBbmAePc0mYUcmntVpjzkmRLKE0GzK9KoYZBmflgG2aOQuN7_g_Mx0/s320/20161205_161843.jpg" width="320" /></a>On Friday, I had my normal 3 month A1c checkup. I must admit I was a little nervous, I had had a rough December and really had no idea what my blood sugar was going to be. <script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br />
Dr Hamant came in and started looking over my test results. I had lost a little more weight, my blood pressure was great, I'm on pins and needles here, your A1c was at 6.1 and is now at 5.9. Seriously?<br />
He asked if I was still taking my meds and I told him that I hadn't taken them since September.<br />
Dr. Hamant says that normal A1c is 5.7 and he said that I no longer have to test my blood sugar everyday!!! I'm in the pre diabetic stage and hopefully if I continue my healthy eating I just may get my numbers back to 5.7. How Awesome!!!<br />
Admittedly, I started crying. This is so major huge for me. My doctor gave me the awkward pat on the shoulder and later on the knee that had me smiling. He told me that I did good, all my hard work has paid off, now keep going and don't slide backwards or he'll beat me up, lol. I said not as much as I would to myself.<br />
So my doctor says that my weight loss is going to slow as I get closer to my goal and get harder to obtain, like I don't already know that. My one year weight is 219.2, a total loss of 57.2 lbs. it doesn't seem like much when I see other people who have lost 100+ in a year but my before and after has me very pleased and wanting to fight for the next 24 lbs that I want to lose. Onward and upward!<br />
These photos were taken at my last appointment with Dr. Gann where I earned my 50 lbs lost star. Too bad they don't have one for 75 cause I'm gonna hit it!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjme_7WWdYulLhQgDSFHsvvTthHWFmo0XKDv9zhISWqYcgPjyATv64b3fqM86VY4oNqSSrv5xQwPhl5YRMqBftevkNmDFTI7IV0QrgMuB8UqQMWCrFqeOzb2RmxBlfTYAXxwPlK/s1600/20161205_161821.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/AVvXsEjme_7WWdYulLhQgDSFHsvvTthHWFmo0XKDv9zhISWqYcgPjyATv64b3fqM86VY4oNqSSrv5xQwPhl5YRMqBftevkNmDFTI7IV0QrgMuB8UqQMWCrFqeOzb2RmxBlfTYAXxwPlK/s320/20161205_161821.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
Carrie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04393328702066930695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33351233.post-7081760162829535832017-01-12T11:39:00.000-07:002017-01-12T11:39:21.983-07:00Sabotage<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibIaIi0AA0XcIz3oHldgHB4hXmnhL-R6pMSQmhd5-vfh37xDKscW-JAbAzbvsOWWsBTkvx2skyWdZXms9ffdRE3jYfGD72U-a80gtBsuVAFcIOYqcoldXgaQCbeqkRTQSlAFiC/s1600/Screenshot_2016-12-14-05-44-03-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; display: inline !important; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="296" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEibIaIi0AA0XcIz3oHldgHB4hXmnhL-R6pMSQmhd5-vfh37xDKscW-JAbAzbvsOWWsBTkvx2skyWdZXms9ffdRE3jYfGD72U-a80gtBsuVAFcIOYqcoldXgaQCbeqkRTQSlAFiC/s320/Screenshot_2016-12-14-05-44-03-1.png" width="320" /></a>I know in my heart that I won't be making my 215 weight goal by 1/16/17. I can't say that I've sabotaged myself but injury and my last two evening meals haven't helped. I'm told I beat myself up way too much over my weight. I'm just truly afraid that this is where I'm going to stand, and for me that's not acceptable. I'm sooo close to where I want to be. I want to finish what I've started, I can obviously maintain, but do I have what it takes to get me through to the finish line?<br />
When I started this journey to health I took my plan and yearning straight to God. I asked him to walk with me and lift me up when I struggled or became stagnant. I feel that I've lost that lately. I think about inner voices and will power more and more lately and how it affects daily choices. (I can say that when two dozen donuts were placed on the table next to me at work, I didn't have one, and when someone brought in a bunch of beautiful oranges I snagged one up real quick. A few of the ladies at work are going to do a diet bet for the next 90 days, here's to hoping that it brings great results for them and less crap around here.)<br />
<br />
On my lunch today I feel the strong urge to come to Him. I know there are a variety of factors why I've added a couple of pounds, just as I know they will come back down, but its my morale and mind set that makes me think sabotage. What do I need to work on or work through to get myself charging forward?<br />
I screen shot this from Instagram a couple of weeks ago, as I was looking through for a photo to add to this post this one popped up. I have probably been feeling this way for a while now or maybe deep down I knew I was going to need this. I just pray to hang on.<br />
Please don't get me wrong. If I stay this weight, its not the end of the world, I'm not a loser, my body is amazing and beautiful, my body is so much stronger. There will be a time where the occasional donut isn't going to be a big deal, like there is now, I'm just trying to finish what I've started. Believe me, I do not deprive myself of treats, they're just usually low carb, or in moderation, and I don't go as crazy as I once did.<br />
Sadly, I'm having trouble really conveying what I'm trying to say. I think about both sides of weight loss, body image, moderation, loving myself and even though it may sound like I'm bagging on myself there is the other side that quietly pipes up and says why? is this really a bad thing? does it really matter? does it define who I am? does it make me happy? is it hurting me in the long run?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>Carrie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04393328702066930695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33351233.post-3000457439873518912017-01-09T11:52:00.002-07:002017-01-09T11:52:54.523-07:00weekend update<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg7PLBSBbpsz_lOlscyEGXUhKvuM2-bA7Nhyj-L-tmn-P63SxTgTwLVwvKss5rhph9FAxUsIpfTOa3HRKzPraJpynyAPFq_TXdwZuuSCixFrGhtoXmFhREnFmlrfwdmULYAHNF/s1600/20170106_183859.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/AVvXsEhg7PLBSBbpsz_lOlscyEGXUhKvuM2-bA7Nhyj-L-tmn-P63SxTgTwLVwvKss5rhph9FAxUsIpfTOa3HRKzPraJpynyAPFq_TXdwZuuSCixFrGhtoXmFhREnFmlrfwdmULYAHNF/s320/20170106_183859.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
On Friday night we went to the annual cookie kickoff at the U of A McKale center. For the second year in a row we got to watch the ladies gymnastics team perform. Just amazing.<script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br />
Chelsea is still part of troop 534 and Kelly has stopped joining her old troop. With Junior strings, Saturdays got a little crazy, plus she felt she was outgrowing scouts and didn't want to go anymore.<br />
This year is Chelsea's second as a Brownie and I have stepped down as cookie mom. Two years was more than enough for me. Granted I'm sure I will miss the control and the interaction with the moms but cookie season kills me. I'm dreading it, all of it. I'm kind of hoping this will be Chelsea's last year. We both feel like outcasts in the troop we created. I've been involved with scouts for a little over 10 years now. I'm tired, no I'm burned out. Hopefully we can get Chelsea to her goal of 500 boxes, but I'm just hoping she'll put more effort into working at selling cookies herself. Truly, my baby is a lazy little toad at times, and it drives me crazy.<br />
Friday night was also the lock in for the boy scouts. Wyatt had such hopes about staying up all night to play video games but in the end he was out for the count at midnight-ish and back up before 6. That's OK by me because he wasn't grouchy on Saturday.<br />
As weekends go, it was a pretty nice one. We are slowly making progress with decluttering our home. We got rid of one box of junk from the girls room, one box of clothes from me and about 5 boxes of old baby/kids books. I completed more of organizing my craft supplies and was able to make some cards with my mom on Sunday. I'm finding that now that I work full time, I use what time I have better. Where as a stay at home mom, I kept putting things off because I always felt I had all the time to do it.<br />
My plan, at least for right now, is to start working on my side of our bedroom. Cleaning out drawers and under neath our bed. The transition of getting rid of the clothes that are too big, and new clothes, new work necessities has made my side a lot messy. Which is really starting to weigh on my nerves, especially with how well things are progressing in the rest of the house.Carrie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04393328702066930695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33351233.post-71839551410031454962017-01-05T13:28:00.001-07:002017-01-05T13:28:11.818-07:00Word of the year for 2017- *Victory*In 2015 my word was Faith, I was struggling in my godly walk and trusting God to take control. That year he opened my eyes and calmed my heart. In 2016, my word was Believe. Believe that I was worthy enough, that I was enough, period. Believe that good things could and would happen. In a lot of ways last year felt so light for me. Right now I chalk it up to all the physical and emotional changes that I was going through.<script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvAZvAr05o4ZKA_K7GBgC5g2hX7WU1G72pBdUVWkefPd8zPPSEIxPTuQcVSchB7e7IJSJHvW9xaa94TbORZY7JwHHekqxIgo7Xz3X76wxkaLnhSCtf8uHGjyfe8-BwKQ2MWYnh/s1600/Screenshot_2017-01-04-21-56-06-1.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvAZvAr05o4ZKA_K7GBgC5g2hX7WU1G72pBdUVWkefPd8zPPSEIxPTuQcVSchB7e7IJSJHvW9xaa94TbORZY7JwHHekqxIgo7Xz3X76wxkaLnhSCtf8uHGjyfe8-BwKQ2MWYnh/s320/Screenshot_2017-01-04-21-56-06-1.png" width="320" /></a>In December when the prompt for "one little word" started making the social media rounds, I started praying about it. My heart or my mind wouldn't let go of the word, Victory.<br />
This is the year that I want to proclaim victory. I want to hit my weight goal of 215, and then hit my new goal of 195. I want to maintain a better love for myself and my health, aka blood sugars. Let's see, I want to get out from under the credit card debt. I also have plans to take two mother/daughter trips with my mom this year. The first trip is sch<br />
eduled for May to visit family in Ohio and then the next in July where we head to Monterey so mom can attend a wedding. I'm so excited for both. In April, Rob and I will be celebrating our 20th wedding anniversary, while no plans to celebrate have been made yet, I'll chalk it up as another victory for both of us that after all these years we still enjoy each other as much as the day we were married. No small feat in todays world and I know I owe it to the big man upstairs.<br />
So with positive thoughts, a good work ethic and lots of God time, I own that VICTORY will be mine this year.<br />
CarrieCarrie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04393328702066930695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33351233.post-32606677116977493592017-01-04T14:47:00.000-07:002017-01-04T14:47:41.429-07:00New Year, new meHappy New Year! <div>
I just re read my last post and so much has changed. I've decided that my blog is going to be for me. My online journal. I'm not going to try and turn it into a business or a popularity contest. Just my thoughts, my memories. This past year I have spent way to much time thinking about blogging and looking at resources about blogging than actually blogging. Crickets....chirping.</div>
<div>
Now that a new year has begun I have regretted not keeping up with the last couple of years because I don't have a memory book to look back on. I've contemplated doing a yearly recap for 2016, but lets be honest, I'm too lazy to do it, lol.</div>
<div>
Where to begin? In October I left my job as a monitor at Chelsea's school and went back to work full time with the Western Passport Center. My hours are similar to the kids' school schedule, so I'm not missing out on anything. It's been quite the adjustment for me but things are getting better.</div>
<div>
One of the great benefits is the extra money that it brings in. Our goal for 2017 is to be almost completely debt free. I can just taste the freedom!</div>
<div>
Looking back at my last post in March, I had lost about 20lbs. So, where am I now? </div>
<div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr8ls0eJ-ZlSr5ilBD8CFQs7KgJpICGutcbqIL4nQC9Sko1Mjd9gVPNq2tFpyytr7suX7jTKVoE6xDmzs0SrWTVmFmTncGd-Xauxnr14NfO5ZWDJdXUgujP26GamoykCgkMTeR/s1600/20170102_064849.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgr8ls0eJ-ZlSr5ilBD8CFQs7KgJpICGutcbqIL4nQC9Sko1Mjd9gVPNq2tFpyytr7suX7jTKVoE6xDmzs0SrWTVmFmTncGd-Xauxnr14NfO5ZWDJdXUgujP26GamoykCgkMTeR/s320/20170102_064849.jpg" width="180" /></a>I'm almost too giddy to post the answer.</div>
<div>
These two photos, taken on the 2nd of January show my current look. I'm currently at 219 lbs, I've lost 57 lbs so far and I'm 4lbs away from the original goal of 215 I set at Dr. Gann's last January!!</div>
<div>
In fact, my one year anniversary is on the 16th. The week of Christmas the scale actually hit 216 for two days but come on, Christmas dinner, work potlucks, new year and Mikeys' 39th birthday. I've cardioed my heart out to keep my weight somewhat in check, but still. My hope is to be back to 216 by the 16th or better yet 215. How awesome would that be?!</div>
<div>
Mom and I transferred to the gym back in April when it started getting too hot to walk around the block. We go roughly 5 times a week only taking Wednesday and Sundays off. I really like the consistency. In November moms schedule went a little crazy so I usually go to the gym on my own, well until I talked my friend Wendy into joining. We meet up after work and put in a good hour of sweating. I am<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRXdd2tMTDVZG20LpciQ_sIJxP0hwwk0U_gdGbdhY1AZ0d3nsN5Ql8nfiazy42xFp7fezZDQy8Q5RlH8yDM8FhgdnX6LgXIhPVuXe3IP0U9V45a7Vxs3yPq6ur_i0SOevPQtlN/s1600/20170102_064917.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRXdd2tMTDVZG20LpciQ_sIJxP0hwwk0U_gdGbdhY1AZ0d3nsN5Ql8nfiazy42xFp7fezZDQy8Q5RlH8yDM8FhgdnX6LgXIhPVuXe3IP0U9V45a7Vxs3yPq6ur_i0SOevPQtlN/s320/20170102_064917.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
so close to my goal I've focused more on cardio than building strength. Does that make any sense?<br />
Let's see... more stats, I'm wearing a ladies size 16 almost a 14 in pants and an XL in shirts. Oh to be able to find clothes easier! I've been hitting the local thrift shops for my work wardrobe and I have gone a little crazy, but I'm loving it!<br />
I haven't been this small since the year we got married and it will be 20yrs in April.<br />
New goals, my new goal is to get to 195. Back to onderland. I figure that getting to 195 I can consistently maintain my weight closer to 200. My other goal is to fit back into my wedding dress. I tried it on the other day and it fits except the arms which makes the neck about an inch away from buttoning up. Since the dress was tailored to me 20 yrs ago I can only hope to get my arms toned enough to get it buttoned. If not, no biggie, it fits everywhere else.<br />
I plan on doing another post about all my feelings and the journey but my thought process is to wait until I hit 215 and right now I'm just jotting down thoughts about things I want to cover.<br />
Gosh, I wish I had consistently blogged. Very frustrated with myself, because now I'm trying to back track and explain. Grrr.</div>
Carrie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04393328702066930695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33351233.post-77044933401366897272016-03-31T10:33:00.002-07:002016-04-07T01:44:44.579-07:00<div class="separator" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;">
<img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCsJWb1CXXucZARQhgDYQy3a_j_IJi1Zux9mERyS9YjlWsPbKaJA3toE2t26ygB8P0F5cpHO04wrNa1T4e2QA8uqjMFjOw9_b1cAMbvwvY1jxAHtZlZ_ulnhR4YbXDBmYUV2rF/s320/IMG_8090.JPG" width="320" /> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCsJWb1CXXucZARQhgDYQy3a_j_IJi1Zux9mERyS9YjlWsPbKaJA3toE2t26ygB8P0F5cpHO04wrNa1T4e2QA8uqjMFjOw9_b1cAMbvwvY1jxAHtZlZ_ulnhR4YbXDBmYUV2rF/s1600/IMG_8090.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
<br />
<script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script><span style="color: black;">Starting over...again.</span><br />
I don't even know where to begin.<br />
This is me now.<br />
I'm 40, getting healthy and mentally doing better than I have in a long time.<br />
Back in October 2015 I was officially diagnosed as Type 2 diabetic. It was going to happen eventually, almost everyone on both sides of my family has it. Heck, I've probably have been for years but ignored it.<br />
Something changed though. I don't want to be on insulin. I struggle monitoring my blood sugar as it is. I can't push the button to do my finger stick. I have to take off the cap and watch myself stick the lancet into my finger. Crazy, I know, but that's how I get it done. There is also something else. I don't want to be on any medicine, I don't want any of the complications that being diabetic can bring on. I watch my dad, who is also diabetic and he hasn't changed any of his habits, he just gives himself more insulin. No.<br />
So, I had a come to Jesus meeting with myself. This is my new normal, there is no more denying it, I have diabetes and unless I make changes, my health isn't going to get better. The first month or so I lost 10lbs, I stopped the soda and cut back on the chocolate. From October to January of 2016 my A1c went from 11 to 9.4, a great start but not good enough. I also began struggling just trying how to "figure" out diabetes so that I could manipulate and still eat what I want. Laughable now, but true. Throw in all the favorite food holidays and I could've done better.<br />
By January, my doctor was talking about insulin. Dread and self contempt poured through me. While he was happy with my changes it wasn't enough, my sugars were still too high. Instead my doctor surprised me, he was going to refer me to <a href="http://dietofhope.org/blog/" target="_blank">Dr. Gann's diet of hope</a>. I was willing to try but skeptical all the same. I went in for my initial appointment and went through some quick tests, talked to the nurse practioner and received my first weeks menu. Lots of veggies and protein, okay, all things that I like to eat already just minus all the sugar that I am addicted to. Let me also mention I began this lifestyle change in the middle of girl scout cookie season and Robs 45th birthday party, yep, but I was serious. My first week I dropped 8 lbs and I had a cheat day on Robs birthday. That next week came off another 6lbs and I also had a cheat day. Then the weight slowed down coming off. A pound here, 3 there. Weekly visits, lots of questions asked. I was told, if I'm gonna cheat, go big or go home. I can't have a couple of Hershey kisses everyday, it not only throws my sugars off but I don't lose ounces for several days. I have also learned that if I have a carb heavy meal it takes me a day or more to bring my sugars back down. <br />
So where am I now? I'm on week 8.5 and I'm down 20lbs. I haven't cheated since that 2nd week. I walk 2 miles a day, about 5 days a week. I plateau but push through. Rob has told me several times that there is no way he could do what I'm doing. At 6 weeks my A1c is down to 7.7 and my morning fasts are dropping daily from the beginning of 277 to now at 140. <br />
While all the medical stuff is good and I have every intention of continuing, my favorite part is that I weigh less than I have in 15+ years, before I even got pregnant. I've gone from a size 24 to an 18.<br />
When I did the weight loss challenge with the ladies from church a couple of years ago, I started at 296, I dropped 20lbs in 3 months mostly from exercise. I've kept that off and now this. Today I saw 247 on the scale. My ultimate goal, 215. Am I proud of myself, HELL YES! Do I still criticize myself, unfortunately yes. Diabetes isn't easy and there isn't a way to figure it out. You just have to keep plugging along and not give up. <br />
Last week my doctor gave me a rare compliment after he received my test results. He said I was a poster child for a healthier lifestyle and he wished he could show his other patients my charts. I beamed with delight but I understand their struggle. <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Carrie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04393328702066930695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33351233.post-80333517003192571812015-07-07T16:07:00.000-07:002015-07-07T16:07:14.609-07:00Oh Summer<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLwj3W2yAWCQRqseC4CaZrylFUpiOR0Ma4GvLgQc3Mr_dDVTgbdR6XP2gnjUCYotg-N0-SNgPV60uxHhK-nhBOq00LFfrdN71oNQjKbUVckTv3xI5snGbloFoRz2PRTWCz0AwF/s1600/Copy+%25281%2529+of+IMG_6654.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLwj3W2yAWCQRqseC4CaZrylFUpiOR0Ma4GvLgQc3Mr_dDVTgbdR6XP2gnjUCYotg-N0-SNgPV60uxHhK-nhBOq00LFfrdN71oNQjKbUVckTv3xI5snGbloFoRz2PRTWCz0AwF/s320/Copy+%25281%2529+of+IMG_6654.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
Arizona in the summer can be both beautiful and miserable. <br />
On those miserable days, we throw a sheet on the microfiber couch and let the kids veg out on their or my electronics.<br />
This was one such day. Kelly was off working with Nina and Wyatt was off to Boy Scout camp. Chelsea and I were in veg mode.<br />
I so remember doing these same things when I was a kid. I try as a mom and adult to capture the essence of being a kid but also our summer.<br />
So far the kids go swimming several days a week with Grandma at the YMCA, we've been trying to have movie days and library days.<br />
The biggest thing they've done is clean their rooms, Yay mom says, boooo say the kids. It was bad, real bad. <br />
The laundry is now under control, the clean clothes kept finding their way back into the dirty clothes basket, sometimes still folded! <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhv86muUTGqk-_lkFlCV5Ew9mDV1e2qNVnl4NZt-mojYedLo6DNLmcN4SC-PgvRnyVzwkLCiQRNXBB_iiuWbKuDGLU3DImK2F5OimcGbJwAcWu39uoD0itFodbQ16lZaF2_sbzA/s1600/IMG_6655.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/AVvXsEhv86muUTGqk-_lkFlCV5Ew9mDV1e2qNVnl4NZt-mojYedLo6DNLmcN4SC-PgvRnyVzwkLCiQRNXBB_iiuWbKuDGLU3DImK2F5OimcGbJwAcWu39uoD0itFodbQ16lZaF2_sbzA/s320/IMG_6655.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
The kids have rediscovered some of their toys, in Kelly and Chelsea's case they tried to bring them to the kitchen table to play instead of their room. When I said they couldn't, all toys need to stay in their room, their reason was they didn't want to mess they're room up!<br />
Shaking my head...kids<br />
*Carrie*
<script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>Carrie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04393328702066930695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33351233.post-78782036581449310142015-07-04T15:07:00.000-07:002015-07-04T15:07:31.182-07:00Happy 60th Mom!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhA9A3h0wzpjr6p2B16H7ydzn4sSKDblD5mNVAnQGPPW5BPRaLzpaXuRzAyVfhCUF6l9PKQ23Is-Uy4F0n1Bq4ufygmiVAW1nIOohwa-faiPvxj6CLsPm33c9DFcvsIsmPIAGco/s1600/IMG_6657.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/AVvXsEhA9A3h0wzpjr6p2B16H7ydzn4sSKDblD5mNVAnQGPPW5BPRaLzpaXuRzAyVfhCUF6l9PKQ23Is-Uy4F0n1Bq4ufygmiVAW1nIOohwa-faiPvxj6CLsPm33c9DFcvsIsmPIAGco/s320/IMG_6657.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Happy 4th of July and Happy 60th Birthday to my mom.<br />
Mom has been saying how she didn't want a big to do and that she was going to go do stuff that she doesn't get to do that often.<br />
Basically a ME day. <br />
Sometimes hitting these big numbers can be depressing, I get it.<br />
I wanted to have some fun, so last night I blew up 55 or so balloons with the thought that I would go to her house in the morning and decorate. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg0SW07zTULboMwDq9Gig9JMEhmCFkUt4hN6JQTed67pBIgv9KpwhZsBvGV3X668FNUITuz-vbeUJ-qMbW_eAYdNFWb1SWblf7vYjqxpPrBczGkIjdmVS7fhdQJ35wm7gISa5zg/s1600/IMG_6656.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/AVvXsEg0SW07zTULboMwDq9Gig9JMEhmCFkUt4hN6JQTed67pBIgv9KpwhZsBvGV3X668FNUITuz-vbeUJ-qMbW_eAYdNFWb1SWblf7vYjqxpPrBczGkIjdmVS7fhdQJ35wm7gISa5zg/s320/IMG_6656.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
There was one small glitch. Mom is dog sitting for a client and needed to be at her house early, but <em>this</em> morning mom was running late. <br />
I drove to her house, taking the back way just so we wouldn't cross paths and as I about to come around the corner, I see her truck still in the driveway. YIKES<br />
I ended up waiting around the corner for another 40 minutes till she left. <br />
I got in and put up the plastic curtain I made. I hung up the birthday banner and then began dumping big garbage bags full of balloons all around her living room.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaOrWpZiXRdS5TNnAilMNJkKkx4N3YqzO7oaLv28N0uJ_BkYcN3ZQ1I56X7qXX68yYH0_MdOBrQO7vaq9JYLTOnN9s5nBJ1z20urKNVHDgap2NkVDS5HFS7QqVI9tu7Lua7M2z/s1600/IMG_6658.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/AVvXsEhaOrWpZiXRdS5TNnAilMNJkKkx4N3YqzO7oaLv28N0uJ_BkYcN3ZQ1I56X7qXX68yYH0_MdOBrQO7vaq9JYLTOnN9s5nBJ1z20urKNVHDgap2NkVDS5HFS7QqVI9tu7Lua7M2z/s320/IMG_6658.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
I then proceeded to blow up another 30 balloons. In the end, which included me making a second trip out to her house because I left a bag of balloons at home,<br />
I think there was closer to 80 balloons on her floor.<br />
It looks so cool.<br />
The Reveal: Things didn't go exactly as planned for mom's ME day but she had let me know that she was going to stop by.<br />
Crud, I had nothing for her because it was all at her house! <br />
Ma stops by, we sit and chat for like an hour. At the end the girls came home from swimming and I have to remind them that she hasn't been home to see yet so don't say anything.<br />
Mom leaves and the clock watching begins. <br />
A short while later I tried to play it cool when she called and asked if I was involved. I started laughing with her as I explained the back story and struggling to not say anything that would give me away when we were hanging out talking and how bad I felt not having anything to give her because it was all at her house. <br />
Mom says she can't stop laughing and loves it.<br />
I wrote in her card if she gets frustrated she can always start stabbing the balloons, I'm sure that would bring some stress relief.<br />
Happy Birthday Mom, we sure do love you.<br />
*Carrie*
Carrie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04393328702066930695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33351233.post-30350088370625113602015-07-04T14:36:00.000-07:002015-07-04T14:36:20.077-07:00Chelsea turns 7<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoF6G684Z9CpJg7-DGoXM528Tlu8Hc2WY2Mv1P3Rwy79YYb0dJqSBrF-gmCNYelDKOZ6Re4mdPz3sIJJI6buKeozoXHts6BFPK6SubEnHfbZ92OSKedudMcrdwJEID8v90g7e7/s1600/Copy+%25281%2529+of+IMG_6583.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoF6G684Z9CpJg7-DGoXM528Tlu8Hc2WY2Mv1P3Rwy79YYb0dJqSBrF-gmCNYelDKOZ6Re4mdPz3sIJJI6buKeozoXHts6BFPK6SubEnHfbZ92OSKedudMcrdwJEID8v90g7e7/s320/Copy+%25281%2529+of+IMG_6583.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
Last Saturday this amazing girl turned 7. How can that possibly be? <br />
Chelsea is a sweet, strong-willed firecracker. Our house is never boring with Chelsea around. <br />
I love the fact that she still loves to wear dresses almost every day. <br />
She drives me nuts because she won't clean up after herself and heaven forbid you ask her to pick up her room. That is when the, I'm too little, card gets thrown around. <br />
Chelsea starts 2nd grade this fall and we have put her in the gate program at her school. I pray that she has an easier time than Wyatt did. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv6Mmmozo8c0UWrhp57igTSRLO-TKRXCaLX2ntrZ7qHpfBTJM2NDY-WGrBPskIAFlse0JBHebmdwAaxz3dZQG3Nvb2NDLDsIlTIuCxzk1MPPR1kS6_aM0nmYTxCrWgYosVH5wt/s1600/IMG_6610.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/AVvXsEjv6Mmmozo8c0UWrhp57igTSRLO-TKRXCaLX2ntrZ7qHpfBTJM2NDY-WGrBPskIAFlse0JBHebmdwAaxz3dZQG3Nvb2NDLDsIlTIuCxzk1MPPR1kS6_aM0nmYTxCrWgYosVH5wt/s320/IMG_6610.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
This year we are going to do something a little different. <br />
Chelsea hasn't been able to have a friend birthday because of when her birthday is and not having anyones addresses or phone numbres.<br />
Alas, we had a family party Saturday and once school starts we are throwing her a big ol bash. <br />
Hint: its Hawiiaan themed.<br />
One of the things that Chels has been asking for is a ukelele. Can I just say I was so excited to buy her this, lol. This last week it has passed hands as we all strum and "try" to make music.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS2JdGsxST8LgUN5g6lcHheGp6VozBMOHPSUvdWap-23YqUfnq1B3vsls0-3rWAGin-18fL2lPe5WdLDVJ8sUaIfw07PpT11vTJwZqIMhZU9cuo9w17hgJUlCQ8e0iHd2GFsf2/s1600/IMG_6618.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/AVvXsEhS2JdGsxST8LgUN5g6lcHheGp6VozBMOHPSUvdWap-23YqUfnq1B3vsls0-3rWAGin-18fL2lPe5WdLDVJ8sUaIfw07PpT11vTJwZqIMhZU9cuo9w17hgJUlCQ8e0iHd2GFsf2/s320/IMG_6618.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
We had fun tricking Chels when my mom arrived and she opened her gift and received a bike helmet and pads but no bike.<br />
The bike was hidden and at first Chelsea didn't see it, but when she did... she yelled for everyone to come see.<br />
<br />
We brought the bike into the house and after Rob made some adjustments we had her change her clothes so her dress wouldn't get ruined and took the bike out for a quick spin.<script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiDYWKZavilmhWSkeCfIAeSKKXyc6dzw9ihSjSag9rqCGU3EXNrgRbileY5UPKi5Zp6fY-enlv7J3BJ-vH-bIVGzDo1SX_SzcSc7TNai5I7W10CPzu2T-XJCB13qYkm6oMpM7X/s1600/IMG_6634.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/AVvXsEhiDYWKZavilmhWSkeCfIAeSKKXyc6dzw9ihSjSag9rqCGU3EXNrgRbileY5UPKi5Zp6fY-enlv7J3BJ-vH-bIVGzDo1SX_SzcSc7TNai5I7W10CPzu2T-XJCB13qYkm6oMpM7X/s320/IMG_6634.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Now when her brother and sister go for a spin on their scooters she can join them.<br />
I just know we need to get all of us moving more.<br />
Granted now that the monsoons have arrived the afternoon temps aren't that bad. It really means getting our butts off the couch.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhOz6JahY3VV2dZZbHd7AjVRoVegqQIMqa4Hc2a5QvkzcrVgAQ1ls5zTHw3YI38UxW2vNnfxTHs139X1nxG2muLwK_pzVVFjW2AUd8PDIHf6Ywi34pbt1oqgezfO2TSljxCdfZc/s1600/IMG_6643.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/AVvXsEhOz6JahY3VV2dZZbHd7AjVRoVegqQIMqa4Hc2a5QvkzcrVgAQ1ls5zTHw3YI38UxW2vNnfxTHs139X1nxG2muLwK_pzVVFjW2AUd8PDIHf6Ywi34pbt1oqgezfO2TSljxCdfZc/s320/IMG_6643.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
You sure can't miss Chelsea with her super cool unicorn helmet.<br />
And just for posterity, she has been asking for a bike for awhile and except for Rob, none of us ride like we should. So we are just learning and using training wheels. <br />
Happy Birthday baby girl can't wait to see how your BIG party goes, hehehe.<br />
*Carrie*
Carrie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04393328702066930695noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-33351233.post-36814498445647367882015-07-04T14:07:00.001-07:002015-07-04T14:07:41.037-07:00June recapI can't believe that today is the fourth of July. <br />
As most parents say, summer vacation is half over. I feel the same way, but I think I will keep my head in the clouds a little bit longer and deny that summer vacation is almost over. <br />
<br />
In June I hid from the heat as much as possible, heck I pretty much became a shut in one week when our temps were over 107. My scrap room was almost unbearable to be in. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1FGW7dh1fMJ7bSlC2E5u20Lbnp6RM6z9UGHODtCI2eDEN7zUr_sbo9mjWQFfEwlDqL_il3sqQCj3h6ODPIw4b-aqvdqB4dU0BrwiZZ_1ekk0b-u0IePCKLPJDUcyMLrU1aZyX/s1600/Copy+%25281%2529+of+IMG_6297.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1FGW7dh1fMJ7bSlC2E5u20Lbnp6RM6z9UGHODtCI2eDEN7zUr_sbo9mjWQFfEwlDqL_il3sqQCj3h6ODPIw4b-aqvdqB4dU0BrwiZZ_1ekk0b-u0IePCKLPJDUcyMLrU1aZyX/s320/Copy+%25281%2529+of+IMG_6297.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
The big news around here is that Wyatt now wears glasses. <br />
I want to get a picture of our family with the caption that 4 out of 5 Ross' wear glasses. So far Kelly is the only one with good vision. Of course my vision didn't start to change until high school. So who knows.<br />
Chelsea was also overdue for new glasses so both kids got the hook up. <br />
The one thing I like best about Wyatt having to wear glasses is that we have them made with transitions. He is very light sensitive and this has helped immensely.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikl9JFNUsqUONcpQy4oSPFQeCacLLqtUaXhxz5OE_0DRvaQrEMFcXM6nFmgvKKP2q2A2VQnPg4k3sf42dCb6Hgp0NPGSvZHLwoj9FKCM4ZRpnHqC-F_oRg8rN03BmtawXOgMLC/s1600/Copy+%25281%2529+of+IMG_6301.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikl9JFNUsqUONcpQy4oSPFQeCacLLqtUaXhxz5OE_0DRvaQrEMFcXM6nFmgvKKP2q2A2VQnPg4k3sf42dCb6Hgp0NPGSvZHLwoj9FKCM4ZRpnHqC-F_oRg8rN03BmtawXOgMLC/s320/Copy+%25281%2529+of+IMG_6301.JPG" width="213" /></a></div>
<br />
Also in June we all went to the circus. Ringling Brothers knows how to put on an awesome circus. I teared up when the elephants came out to do their walk around. The oldest elephant they were using was 58, and she broke my heart. I'm really happy that Ringling Bros are phasing them out. I found the human cannonball so nostalgic and fun. I was lucky enough to get her entire flight in pictures, so cool.<br />
My favorite part was the guys doing the aerobatics on the twin trampolines, that was insane. <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUMTV4Nk6e3O2B_ypTLbxxV8SEEHEbG6kWktaimYXl17ibTYSyJMArD9FmFgmsG1avS7HXdXjx2NUOZrVywPKuU61hxu0DoHd_-y659icJ_grgUZZE3eC5RYYLXjL-R6lCSnDA/s1600/IMG_6443.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/AVvXsEiUMTV4Nk6e3O2B_ypTLbxxV8SEEHEbG6kWktaimYXl17ibTYSyJMArD9FmFgmsG1avS7HXdXjx2NUOZrVywPKuU61hxu0DoHd_-y659icJ_grgUZZE3eC5RYYLXjL-R6lCSnDA/s320/IMG_6443.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidDvIiqmdj6cxQcCkNzttbGR_6ACOMPHcu43Y0yakX1QSShwy6OjqeU0EgaWq-dLl-m-Ytl33hJDLufdt4sxsJjA_ryDrX2P7yDYQ3LvlAw4-fpLcQV8HxxEdP085bRound5H5/s1600/IMG_6610.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/AVvXsEidDvIiqmdj6cxQcCkNzttbGR_6ACOMPHcu43Y0yakX1QSShwy6OjqeU0EgaWq-dLl-m-Ytl33hJDLufdt4sxsJjA_ryDrX2P7yDYQ3LvlAw4-fpLcQV8HxxEdP085bRound5H5/s320/IMG_6610.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
But the biggest event of all was this young lady turning 7. Holy cow! <br />
Birthday recap tomorrow!<br />
*Carrie*
<script src="//assets.pinterest.com/js/pinit.js" type="text/javascript"></script>Carrie Rosshttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04393328702066930695noreply@blogger.com0