Mom's Gone Wild - What a weekend!!

This past weekend marked my very first "girls' trip." I never had the ability to go away for weekends with the girls, so I was more than excited when Mom and Rachel came into town on Thursday. The kids and I picked them up at the airport around 6:30 p.m. and headed to Chiptole for a quick bite to eat. When we got home, Pop Pop must've been a little jealous because we ended up skyping for a few minutes so he could see his grandbabies. I know it must be hard for them to live 6 hours away. Maybe one day we'll be much closer and they can really watch Savannah and Jackson grow up.


Friday morning, Mom and I woke up around 5:30 a.m. had a few cups of coffee and then took the kids to daycare. Savannah was excited because it was "field/water day." After working a half day, I was so excited when the girls came to pick me up at the office. We took off straight for Tampa and "Mom's Gone Wild" had begun. Checking in around 1:00 p.m., we quickly unpacked our clothes for the evening and made our first cocktail. We've all come to love the adult version of the "Arnold Palmer," so we made sure we had an ample supply of sweet tea vodka and lemonade. Within an hour and a half...we'd had a few drinks and decided we should probably eat something before we had anything else to drink. We headed to Channelside and ate at one of my favorite little spots...Tina Tapa's.


It was perfect...we each picked two tapas and shared. Plus, we each had a glass of sangria. With a couple of hours until concert time, we decided to grab something sweet, so we went to the chocolate store...and we found heaven...a little too much heaven because after one piece of chocolate, we were all over it. Then...it all started to go down hill...you see, while we waited for the cab, we thought we might as well grab another drink...except, we went to Hooter's. And drank beer...and lost our buzz.

But...the bad times didn't last for long...as soon as we got to the venue, the excitement hit. Although it was hot, we had a great time. All of the acts were amazing...Sara Evans was beautiful and sounded great.

When Rascal Flatts hit the stage, the first song started the show off right. It had a "Blue Man Group" feel to it...as the guys from RF played the drums, lit by gorgeous neon lights. Each and every song seemed to get better and better. After their show, we walked about a mile to catch a taxi. By the time we got back to the hotel room, we were starving...and ordered a pizza. As we waited for it, I crashed...waking only long enough to eat a couple slices of pizza.

The highlight of the Tampa trip ended up being brunch on Saturday. We went to Datz Delicatessen and OMG was the food to die for...and the drinks too. Rachel got a bloody mary which had BACON in it...yes, you read that right...bacon in a drink. She said it was awesome. We each got something savory for brunch and ended up taking bites to taste it all. Nobody was disappointed.

The quick drive back had us home, ready to chill for a few hours. We made an exception to "girl's weekend" on Saturday night so I could introduce Rachel to my super hero (AJ). He came over around 5PM and we sat and chatted for a bit before we headed out to dinner. We ate some fantastic sushi in Baldwin Park and then headed to Big Daddy's for a bit of karaoke. We spent the rest of the night belting out tunes and sucking it up for the other singers. For some reason, it just so happened that EVERY.OTHER.SINGER was awesomely talented. By the time I sang the last song, I had my beer goggles on and could barely read the words on the screen. Thanks to my super hero for driving so the girls could let loose. We had a great time and I know my family is really growing to love AJ for me. They can see how happy he makes me and that makes them happy.

After recovering all day on Sunday, I'm already thinking of when we can book our next Mom's Gone Wild weekend.

my legacy began 7 years ago

I was once asked in a job interview what I would consider my greatest success. And you know what, I lied. I got the position...but I lied. I'm sure I made up some bullshit about how my greatest success was getting some major project approved when I worked at the City and the rest of the staff was against the new development. Sure, it's exciting when you can prove a whole staff of bureaucrats wrong when you stand up before the Planning Board or City Council and do what you feel is right...often bending the code to support the position you've taken. But...I've learned, especially recently, that my career does not define me.

My legacy began 7 years ago...when I walked into the labor and delivery unit of Winter Park Memorial Hospital. With Jason and my mom by my side, and a pillow tucked under my arm...I waddled my fat ass into that wing knowing that I would leave a changed woman. For one, I'd instantly lose a bit of weight...but more importantly, I would join this club called Motherhood.

I remember being hooked up to iv's and blood pressure monitors surrounded by my parents, Jason and my brother John. I remember Jason and John playing with all the rubber gloves and random medical equipment in the room...trying to make me laugh. They succeeded...for a bit. I remember listening to Enya and trying to focus on my breathing and controlling what little pain I had. I remember asking for the epidural knowing that at 6 centimeters...it wasn't too much longer and I'd hate myself and everyone around me if I waited too late. I remember the nurse saying it was time to push...and I remember the look on my mom's face as she left the room.

She wanted to stay...I could tell...partly because she wanted to witness her first grandchild being born, but also because I'm sure she wanted to make sure I was okay. I also know she wanted nothing more than to see me transform into a new kind of woman. I don't think either of us knew back then that I'd become who I am today.

I remember pushing...three times...and Dr. Van Wert walking in at the last moment...4:58 p.m....to catch Savannah Kayleigh Middleton as she entered the world. I remember hearing her cry and feeling the warmth of her body as she laid on my chest for the first time. I remember looking into her eyes and being overcome with emotion. You see...I was never much of a crier...but motherhood has changed me. Here I am, sitting in the darkness of my bedroom...with tears streaming down my cheeks...remembering the day my legacy began.

I love Savannah for so many reasons. For one, she was created out of love. Although Jason and I are no longer married, I don't think either of us will deny that we wanted her...and she was created out of the love we had for each other and the love we knew we could give to her. I love her because she has always been so caring toward others. I wasn't the most shining example of how to treat people...especially in high school...and so I've been glad to see that she has learned from the woman I am today and not who I used to be. I've had about a dozen parents comment on how Savannah was one of the first children to welcome their child into the new classroom...at daycare or at elementary school. I am proud of her for that.

I love Savannah because she is independent. She doesn't fit into any one mold of what a "girl" should be. She tells me she's two part tomboy and one part girlie girl...and I love her for that. I want her to be her own person...march to the beat of her own drum...be a leader, not a follower.

I love Savannah because she is so smart. From the time she remembered Pop Pop getting peed on by a turtle 2 years before...or the times we sit in the car and she asks me to give her multiplication problems to do...I love listening to her learn and helping her expand her knowledge. I am proud of her for being placed in the gifted program this year. Although she's had a MAJOR life change...she has persevered.

I love Savannah because she thinks I sing good. Those of you that have heard me are probably thinking she's deaf...but, it reminds me of when she was a newborn and I would sing to her while I rocked her and it instantly soothed her as her body melted into mine and her breathing became heavy and rhythmic as she drifted off.

I love Savannah because she is the best big sister ever. She loves Jackson unconditionally and wants to protect him and guide him in the right direction. Every morning and every night she gives him kisses. She makes him laugh...she holds his hand as they sit and watch tv together...she shares her toys and snacks with him. She truly loves that little boy and I love her for that.

Most of all, I love Savannah because she is Savannah. She is my first born, my only girl, and the one that changed my life forever. I love you Savannah Kayleigh...and I always will. Happy birthday Rockstar!!!

inspiration and strength...

Inspiration and strength have come from the most unexpected places for me lately. In my journey to live a healthier lifestyle, I've come to find out that I've inspired other people to do the same thing. Several people have contacted me on Facebook to let me know that they are proud of me...most of the time, I get these messages when I need it most...when I'm bored or stressed and look to food for comfort. These messages give me the strength I need to get back on track and focus on maintaining the healthy weight and eating habits I worked so hard for.

I also find inspiration in constantly looking for ways to learn new things and better myself. I am so far from perfect it isn't funny, but I'll never stop trying to find improvements. I've recently thought about going to law school and studying land use or real estate law. I used to say "I hate reading, so I could never make it through law school." Total bullshit...and a pathetic excuse to hold myself back. While training last year, I learned that excuses are ridiculous...and 90 percent of any battle is mental so if I can just overcome that mental battle and quit making excuses...I'm pretty damn sure I can do just about anything.

I've found strength in seeing my beautiful children smiling every day and seeing the love they have for each other. Jackson loves his sister almost as much as he loves food...and she is constantly looking for new ways to make him laugh. The bond between siblings is undeniable and it's clearer to me now that it can't be broken.

My brother and I are only 13 months apart in age...yes, I was "unexpected"...and growing up, we were close, but no where as close as we are now. John is an amazing brother...always has been, but I never appreciated it until recently. He has never once judged me for the decisions I've made in my life. He may not agree...and he'll usually tell me, but he is always there if I need to talk...or escape...or laugh. I am so incredibly lucky to have a brother that (1) is only 6 hours away, but (2) is also willing to drop just about anything to help me out if I need it. I love you John...I know I don't tell you enough, but I really do. You are an amazing husband and amazing father...Rachel and Tyler are so incredibly lucky...just like we are.

social media's impact on my life

According to Wikipedia, the term "social media" refers to the "use of web-based and mobile technologies to turn communication into interactive dialogue." People use social media for a number of different reasons. More and more companies are using social media as ways to expand their business and reach more customers.

Just about everyone I know has a Facebook account. I do, as well. I have for awhile now, but I never thought it would have had the impact on my life that it has. As of today, I have 294 friends on Facebook. And although I have not seen a majority of them in almost 12 or 13 years, I feel closer to some of them now, than I ever was before.

People like April Donelson, who has encouraged me and inspired me to live a healthy lifestyle...or Dawn Strickland or Erin Kelly Jolliff, who are facing unbelievable struggles in raising children with medical issues...or Erica and Ryan Manthey, whose photos inspire me to realize that love is beautiful and can be part of my life again someday...or Melissa Livers Elmer, who keeps me motivated with her weight loss journey. I am forever connected to these people...all because we've chosen to share bits and pieces of our lives via the Internet.

Then, there are those extra special people like my family. As if sending daily morning emails and talking on the phone 3 or 4 times a day isn't enough, I love seeing my family's status updates. Seeing photos and videos of my nephew Tyler or "check-ins" from my parents who still go out on dates to keep that spark alive in their almost 38 year marriage.

But a different form of social media has had a huge impact on my life as well. After my divorce, I signed up for (gulp) match.com. At the encouragement of my ex-husband, Jason, (yes...we have a very close relationship and remain great friends) I created a profile. It included pictures, funny sayings, and essentially me "selling" myself to the masses of men. I hear that men outnumber women on that site 30 to 1...or something like that. The way I looked at it, I had 2 places I could meet men...1. at work (um, no thank you...no offense to the men I work with that may follow my blog) or 2. daycare (pretty sure most of them are married). So, I gave it a shot...and, well, I've met someone. Don't worry people...I'm not running off to Vegas to get married...I just enjoy spending my time with him.

A special man friend (that's what I'll call him for now...until I get approval to reveal his true identity...he is kinda like a super hero) that is incredibly handsome, intelligent, motivated, funny, cultured (but my kinda cultured...you know...rides a Harley and has been known to go four-wheelin' in the mud), handy, ambitious, and most of all...a damn good person. You have to be selfless to do what he does for a living and that's one of the things I like most about him...he gives to others before himself. He's got kids too, which is essential for anyone that I'm going to spend my time with...because unless you have children of your own, I don't think that you understand the sacrifices (if you want to call them that) that go into being a parent.

So, you may be wondering where this post is going...and honestly, I can't tell you. I just wanted to share another piece of my life and of course, to thank Al Gore for inventing the Internet.

There is no playbook

I'm very quickly learning that there is no playbook for this thing called divorce. The month of May was marked by the finalization of the end of my marriage...but it was also marked by a new beginning. A new kind of friendship with Jason...one that gives us the opportunity to move forward without hatred, anger and sadness...one that will prove to be essential as we continue to raise our children in separate households. We both enjoy this new aspect of our relationship and feel closer than we've ever felt. He is building a great new life for himself, as am I.

The highlights of May include moving into my darling little townhouse in Avalon Park. It's on a quiet street, surrounded by great neighbors. Savannah is slowly making new friends and has even found out that one of the neighbors is a good friend she had in 1st grade. My place is almost completely finished...it's been furnished with the help of friends and family...without whom I'd be lost. The last touches will be complete when I get my family portraits I ordered...I can't wait to frame them and put them up.

I've also quickly learned that there is no playbook or prescribed time frame for recovering from something like what I'm going through. There are days when I strugle to stay focused because I'm worried about what will become of me and the kids. But then, there are other days that I know beyond a shadow of a doubt I will be better than okay...I will be great. I've found that a lot of my healing comes from helping other people...being their support system. Whether it's my best friend dealing with work issues, or a new special friend dealing with his own divorce...I find strength in listening...hope in helping...and love for myself in learning that it's okay to let new people in. Good things happen to good people...

Moving on and learning to live on my own

It's been about a month since I posted an update and although a lot has been going on in my life over the last six months, things finally seem to be settling down.

In February, Jason and I started the process of a collaborative divorce. Unlike traditional divorces, where husband and wife hire separate attorneys and are at each other's throats, the collaborative process is just that...collaborative. When I made the decision to get a divorce, I knew going into it that the only way we would all come out as better people (including the children) was to remain friends throughout the process and keep the children as our number one priority. Although there were difficult moments...and emotional moments, I am proud to say that Jason and I have accomplished what very few couples have been able to. He is a great man that loves his children. This week, the paperwork was finalized and filed with the courts. We are both happy to be through that process and thankful that we have each other to call friends and co-parents.

For those that are wondering, Savannah is doing great. She hasn't shown any behavioral problems (other than the typical 6-year old attitude issues) throughout the last few months and has actually excelled in school. She's being tested for the gifted program this summer. Jason and I both love her school (Avalon Elementary) and I have worked very hard to try and make sure she stays in a home that is zoned for that area.

This week, I was approved to rent a townhouse just one street away from where we are living now and best of all...it IS in her school zone. It is a perfect little house, just right for the 3 of us. And since I'm renting, I can't let my creative self free and paint all the walls, but I have a solution...vinyl wall decals. I plan on getting vinyl decals for a few of the rooms with inspirational quotes and something to just personalize the place a little more. I am very excited about the move and can't wait to start living on my own.

The healthy living continues to be key in my life. Working out has helped keep my stress in check and now I am focusing on toning and leaning out. My ultimate goal is to be able to rock a bikini again someday...however, after 2 kids...it's going to take A LOT of work. I'm always up for a challenge though, so we'll see how things go over the next month or so. I'm still running, although the stifling heat has certainly curbed my distances. I usually run 1.5 miles up to the YMCA, lift for about 45 minutes and run 1.5 miles back. It is a great way to end my day.

So as not to continue rambling, I'm going to close for now. The last thing I want to say is that I have the most amazing family in the world. My parents and John and Rachel have provided me with so much strength over the last 6 months. It means the world to me that they continue to support me regardless of how I may falter. They have my love forever.

Project Get Fit - Almost One Year Later and a New Beginning

I've been waiting for the longest time to write this note and I finally feel like I've got the time to sit down and pour it out. It was one year ago on March 29th, 2010, that I decided to change my life forever. I'm not sure if you remember, but I posted a picture of myself on my blog (which sadly, hasn't been updated since July 2010...lots has changed and I just don't have the time anymore) and told the world my weight. The day that picture was posted...I weighed 205 pounds. It was 3.5 months after I had Jackson, but that is no excuse. I was incredibly unhealthy and I disgusted myself when I looked in the mirror.
I remember feeling a lot of things the day I made that post, but most importantly, I felt determination. That determination is what brought me to where I am today. In the last 2 weeks, I've had a handful of people privately message me and ask what I did, how I did it and just to say thanks for being an inspiration. The funny thing is, I never set out to be an inspiration to anyone...I just wanted to be able to take my kids to the beach and enjoy myself without feeling like a whale. Well here's how I did it...
Nutrition - I tracked ALL of my meals...even snacks...on http://www.411fit.com/. It was a great tool for me to see my progress throughout the day and it was incredibly easy. Most of the nutritional information for what I was eating was already available on their site. I initially limited myself to about 1,200 calories a day and around 15 grams of fat. I know that some people may criticize me or say that isn't enough nutrition, but that's what I did...and I don't regret it.
Fitness - When I started, I couldn't even walk next to Savannah while she rode her bike without being out of breath. One of my main goals was to run the entire Nona5K in November 2010. In order to get there, I decided to join the YMCA and start off with group classes. I was dedicated...I took a Cardio Kickboxing class on Mondays, Zumba on Wednesdays, and a Cardio Strength class on Fridays. I'd also do 15 minutes of abs/core work before each of those classes. As time went on, I built up enough stamina to start walking 2 miles on Tuesdays and Thursdays. In August, I dropped my YMCA membership and started running after work. It started off with a mile or two every other day. Eventually, it grew to three miles and by the time the Nona5K rolled around, I was training for my first half marathon. I ended up running the Nona5K in about 28:47. Quite an accomplishment for someone who could barely walk while Savannah was riding her bike. The months of November and December saw me running about 30 miles a week in preparation for the Disney Half Marathon. On January 8th of this year, I ran the half marathon...and I finished...without crawling across the finish line...and surprisingly, I didn't cry.
So maybe you are wondering where that leaves me today? Well, I have run a 5K, a 15K, and a half marathon. I'm signed up for a 10K in Charleston in April...and I'm currently searching for my first marathon (hopefully within the next year). As far as my weight, I am currently at 145 pounds. Yep, I lost 60 pounds (that's almost a Savannah + a Jackson). I went from a size 18 to a size 6. I have more energy than I have ever had and I'm looking forward to a summer with my kids where I can go to the beach or the pool and not feel like an embarrassment. The biggest advice I can give anyone is DO NOT MAKE EXCUSES...more than half of the battle is getting over the mental barriers to living a healthier lifestyle...but I am proof that it can be done. I'll never be able to thank my friends and family enough for all of their support. This has been one of the most trying years of my life, but also one of amazing progress.