F.F.F.

Tomorrow is a “big”  birthday for Julie.  It is a pretty significant birthday but I will not mention the number.

Julie is my sister-law…she is married to my brother Larry – God bless her….hee…hee…not really Larry…you know I love you more than my luggage!

I am excited she is going to spend this “big” day with us. I have a few surprises for her  I think she like…and they are going to make her cry – a good cry that is!

Julie and I have become pretty good friends in the past few years.  She is a lot of fun to be around…and have a few beers with.

I am hoping we are able to kick back and have a few cocktails on Saturday…I am saving…and banking my points!

Happy Birthday Julie!  Hope you have a marvelous day!

Here we are…a little bit younger!

The Project …Day Three

TA-DAH!

Here is my new bathroom.

I LOVE it! It reminds me of an ocean/beach type atmosphere. The white stands out…and I really like the Splashy color. Randy was very nervous about the color…he is an “earth tone” sort of guy. He was hoping I would do it in some beige or tan color…but it seems like my whole house is beige – I wanted COLOR! Randy just came and told me he likes the color!

All Brian has to do tomorrow is the finishing touches. I am going to buy new towels & rugs this weekend…and totally re-organize everything. This has really lifted my spirits. I can’t wait to take a relaxing bath while sipping a fruity drink & listening to Jimmy Buffett!

(BTW – thanks a million to everyone that has called & commented on my blog & Facebook & e-mail about my life style change and recent success. I am really “pumped” about this week…I know that 9 pounds will not happen every week but it was a good place to start! I love your encouragement and support. I really want to stick with this - I don’t want to get lazy again. So you have to hold me accountable when I start drifting! Love you – and thanks again!)

…this week.

1 – is the number of soft drinks I had…

2 – is the number of times I went out to eat…

3 – is the number of balanced meals I had everyday…

4 – times 10 is the number of minutes I exercised everyday…

5 -  is the number of  new dinners – healthy dinners I cooked…

6 – times 10  is the number of  crunches I did everyday…

7 – is the numbers of days I wrote down everything I consumed….

8 – is the number of glasses of water I had everyday….

9 – is the number of pounds I lost…

The Project…Day Two

Brian worked all day from 9 to 5 and only took one fifteen minute break! I know he had to be tired when he went home!

Today Brian painted the texture, sanded all the wood work and painted it. He removed the shower doors – which I promptly delivered to Re-Store along with the other items I am replacing. Then he gave everything a second coat. It looks so good!

Tonight me and Mom made a quick trip to Lowe’s & Target to purchase some vinyl flooring to put inside my cabinet under my sink, a face plate, a new toilet seat(see below), shelf paper, and a new door knob. This is starting to add up!!

Okay…I know this seat is cheesy…and I swore I would never own one like this…but I thought John would like it and maybe help with potty training.

Check back tomorrow for the color…here’s a small hunt…the name of the color is Splashy. Brian and his wife Terry are going to work together – he puts the paint on and she smears it off.

Tomorrow will be busy. Besides my bathroom being painted I weight in tomorrow…I am hoping for at least 3 pounds gone. My brother Larry, who works in Iraq, will be here to visit a few days. His wife Julie is turning 50 on Saturday…we have a few surprises for her. I am excited to see Larry and Julie! And of course Ty Allen who is now 14 and measure around six foot one!!

The Project

I came into a little money this past April. My 401K with WorldCom, which I lost over $150k due to corporate fraud, had a settlement and I got less than $500. I was disappointed it wasn’t a larger amount but I am grateful…at least it was something . (BTW - the CEO – B. Ebbers is in a federal jail in Arkansas for the rest of his life.)

When I found out I was getting this money I knew exactly what I was going to do with it – paint my bathroom! I have wanted to re-do my bathroom for sometime but we have never budgeted for it or taken the time to plan it.

Linda and I picked out some colors…I had a tequila sunrise imagine in my mind…we had a plan. My Mom came over and helped me remove the wallpapers, patched the damage spots, removed the mirrors, the cabinets, and the drawers but then it was time to texture the walls. After completing half a wall I started crying - it looked like crap…it was hot…and it smelled bad. And I realized…

*SPOILER ALERT*

I HATE DIY projects. My Mom is queen of DIY projects – she is so crafty, creative, energetic…I thought for sure I had this hidden passion…& untapped source of talent – NOT!! All of my close friends – Linda, Julie, Melissa, DeeDee – do these projects with great success all the time! I hate it. I mean I really hate it. It is not calming, relaxing, or therapeutic for me…instead it frustrates, aggravates, and annoys me. I have no talent or patience for this type of stuff.

Then between the snot, tears, sweat, and frustration I remembered my handyman Brian Miller. (Brian has been my “go to guy” for the past three years. He has painted some rooms for me & my folks, fixed faucets, garbage disposals, electrical stuff, touch-ups, and anything else that Randy does not feel like doing. Brian is sort of my honey-do when my honey-doesn’t!) As I was crying I called Brian at 8pm last Wednesday evening and said….”help me”! He came over Saturday and gave me a quote..a little over budget but nothing I can’t cover. He told me he would start as soon as he finished his current job and to my delight he called Monday night and said he could start on Tuesday and be finished by Saturday!

My color scheme has change - Brian does this really cool texturing technique that I am excited about. I went tonight and picked my new color, bought shower doors, a light, mirror, and new hardware for my cabinets. Check back daily for updates.

Before...

John helping me remove wallpaper…

John helping PaPa remove the toilet…

Brian is about start texturing…

Close-up of the texture tonight…

Tomorrow Brian paints the texture white, then color on Thursday, and a glaze on Friday.

Change….

Here I go again…..

I love food. I love all sorts of food especially the really bad stuff like cheese, sugar, pastas, butter, heavy creams, and anything that contains the word frosting. I love to cook too . However I cook the bad stuff really good…Paula Deen style. Everything I cook has at least one or two if the following ingredients: at least 3 pounds of cheese, a quart of heavy cream or a stick or two of butter. This style or mind frame of cooking has now got me severely obese.

I have always had a low self-imagine - I am not sure why that is. My parents did nothing but encourage me constantly - they never told me I was fat or needed to diet. But somewhere along the way I decided I was fat and my weight has been this dragon that I have been trying to slay for the past 20+ years. I have tried almost all of the fad diets – cabbage soup, atkins, south beach, heart healthy, weight watchers, slim fast, pills, shots – you name it…I’ve been there. I have talked to a doctor about gastric bypass and the lap-band but I that won’t work either…this has to be a lifestyle change.

I can’t keep going like this. I have a small boy that is sitting in the front row absorbing everything I am doing….and doing his best to imitate everything I do. I don’t want him to have these same issues as he gets older. I want to be able to do fun stuff with him…and keep up with him. I know…I can’t do this by myself but I don’t know how to do this. How do I learn….how do I break the cycle….how do I give up doing what I have done for so long?

After much prayer and consideration I joined Weight Watchers last week. Of all the “diets” I have been on WW worked for me…because … like their ad - “its not a diet…its a lifestyle”.

I spent most the day on Friday looking up healthy recipes and making a meal plan for everyday. I had to make a grocery list and think in advance of what my days would look like. I cried. And then I cried some more. I like doing what is easy. I like doing what I know. In the past I would make a grocery list but I already knew how to make my dinners…cheese, butter, fat, pastas, & a heavy sauce. This is so foreign to me…but I am determined to make this change. (*SIGH*…I don’t like change) I already had to face some challenges…like a chili cheese burger that seems to be calling my name but then I immediately think of John…I see him 5 or 6 years old wanting to go on a ride at Six Flags and I have to tell him no because I am too fat to fit into the ride. I have to make this change.

Today is day 4. I feel like an alcoholic. “ Hello…my name is Tina…and I am a fatty-fat. I have been without fat for 4 days…I am starting to have the shakes and the desire to gorge but I am praying for God to grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change, the courage to change the things I can and the wisdom to know the difference.”

Well…I better go. John and I are about to walk to my folks house - exactly 1.4 miles. One day at a time Sweet Jesus.

Happy Birthday Linda!

Today’s blog is dedicated to my favorite Linda D. Hare.

For those who don’t know this…there are four Hare men in our family; my father-in-law, my brother-in-law, an uncle, and my husband Randy. Three of the four Hare men in our family are married to a Linda…but this Linda is my favorite. I know you are not suppose say you have a favorite…in case you offend someone…but I will say beyond a shadow of a doubt she is my favorite Linda Hare.

Linda is a blessing in my life. Even though I am much bigger than she is…she is my “big” sister. We have so much in common – our values, morals, crafts, politics, blogs, ocd, married to a Hare and so much more. Linda is a very loving and caring woman. She does so much for everyone else and does not take the time to care for herself. She makes me laugh…the sort of laugh that I have had liquids come shooting out my nose. She is spicy too. She is thoughtful. Ohhhh…and…she gives the best presents - almost everything she has made for me goes straight to the fire-proof safe…for safe keeping. She is smart, witty…and wise! Don’t try to surprise her – she is already on to you. She is the world’s best Aunt too. John cries when we have to leave LeeLee’s house – she has great toys, projects, and the best snacks!

Of all these attributes…my most favorite thing about Linda is her knowledge, faith, and love for our Lord Jesus Christ. She is deeply rooted in the Word and she is unwavering in her faith. Many times I have called her to “whine” about something and she lovingly reminds me of who loves me the most and knows me the best. Linda has recently inspired me to go deeper into relationship with God….and it has been wonderful.

Linda – thank you for all you do for our family. Thank you for being my best friend and sister. I am so thankful I have you in my life.

Happy Birthday Sister! I love you!

Happy Birthday DeeDee!

DeeDee is one of my dearest friends - we have been friends almost twenty years.  I met DeeDee when she hired me to deliver dental supplies for her.  I only worked for her a short time but our friendship grew.

I love our friendship…it is so easy.  We only talk maybe once or twice a month but she is the type of friend that if I needed her at 2am or in Amarillo – she would be here as fast as she could get here. 

It always brightens my day to talk to her.  We are  alike in many ways…she is very outgoing, boisterous, funny, and huge Cowboy fan!.  She also has two small boys ages 3 & 1…although her small boys are her grandchildren and they live in Dallas!

We have had many good times together.  One of my favorite memories was seeing Bob Segar in Dallas -  it was awesome!!! DeeDee has been a good teacher…she taught me all of Bob Segars’s music, how to make an awesome Bloody Mary, how to roll with the punches and life is to short to worry!

I love her so much and wished we lived closer. 

Hope you have a wonderful day my friend!!

Garage Sale…

I like garage sales... I don’t like having garage sales but I love going to garage sales.  I love to see little glimpses into people’s life…and wonder…are they tired of having clutter?…or do they need cash….or maybe they just enjoy all these strangers rummaging through their stuff .

Even though I love garage sales I try not to go for two reasons.  #1.  I have enough stuff that I need to sale – why should I pay someone else for their clutter treasures…to add to my clutter treasures that are growing fast than any wild plant at Willie Nelson’s house.  #2.  I don’t know anyone that is willing to get up at the crack of dawn to go treasure hunting with me…which is a good thing.

With that being said my neighbor had a garage sale this weekend…and I couldn’t resist.  She has one every year and I usually find something that I can’t live without.  For example…last year she was selling her Grandfather’s Bible!!  Her Grandfather was a preacher and she said it was just collecting dust!!  This Bible has all sorts of notes, highlights, underlinings, side bars…it is the coolest thing!!  I asked her several times if she was sure she didn’t want it and she said she was…in fact she wouldn’t take any money for it!   Every time I see her I tell her that I have her Bible in safe keepings if she ever wants it back…and she says no…it has a good home now.

I did find three treasures on Friday I am so proud of. 

First…I love decorating for holidays and I found this cute Fitz & Floyd Halloween Candy dish.  I only paid $2.00 for it – perfect condition!

Second…John is into trains big time…so naturally his little eyes spotted this miniature train that he had to have for $0.25 cents.  When I got home I noticed that underneath the train was a sticker that read “Original Loquai Holzkunst W. Germany”.   It is a cute little train and perfect for John’s little hands. 

Third…I bought a toddler swing for $5.00 – it has never been out of the box.  The swing claims to be perfect for toddlers learning to swing…I’ll be the judge of that!  I think we are going to hang it over at MaMa & PaPa’s house. 

 

Hopefully this will fix my garage sale urges until next summer…until then I will still drive slow and rubber-neck as I pass one!                                                                                                     

Happy Birthday Kevin!

Today is one of my favorite friends…who also happens to be family…50th birthday!

Happy Birthday Kevin!!

Kevin makes me laugh so hard, he always keeps me on my toes, and loves me as if I was his real sister! He has the biggest heart and one of the most generous men I have ever known. Kevin will go out of his way to help anyone who needs it, he is easy to get along with, and makes life very interesting. There is never a dull moment when you are with him! One of most favorite new things about Kevin is the relationship he is forming with John. John has already learned that Kevin is a blast to be with and you will always have fun with Kevin! I am begging Randy already if we have another son someday I want to name him Kevin Deion…in honor our our Kevin. Of course everyone in the family says one Kevin is enough…but I think we can handle another one!

So Happy Birthday brother! I hope you have a wonderful day and know how much you are loved! My life would be empty without you. I thank God for you everyday. I love you!!

F.F.F.

Webster Dictionary defines a "lady" as: a refined, polite woman or a noble woman.
I would like to introduce you to a lady - my Aunt Thelma.
I've met many women, girls, chicks, mothers, aunts, girlfriends, sisters, nieces, cousins, daughters...but I have not met many "ladies" and my Aunt Thelma was a lady.

I never heard her say one foul word, speak ill of another person, or carry on in an un-lady-like manner. She was always polished, her children were always neat, and her house was spotless - she took great pride in the way she carried herself. She was petite, soft spoken, and one of the kindest human beings on this earth.

She was so kind & loving to me. She would send me postcards and greeting cards constantly for no particular reason. She would sent me gifts...even when it wasn't my birthday or Christmas! She would always tell me how beautiful I was...or how special I was...or how much she loved me - she was very positive.

I cried the day she left this earth but I knew she went to a better place to be with the love of her life. Several years before she died I mailed her a little pillow that said "Somebody in Texas Loves You". We were unable to attend the funeral but my cousin told me that they put my little pillow in her casket.

I think of her often - my Mom reminds me of her. I wish she was here to meet my Little John...I know she would think he was "just the berries"!

This is one of my favorite pictures of her. I think it looks like a postcard!

Hope you have a wonderful weekend.

This cracks me up!!

In order not to embarrass this little boy...who is now a teenager...I will not reveal his name.

But...I am sure you know who he is!

He is one of my first loves...

I found this picture...and it cracks me up every time I see it!!

F.F.F.

Travel back in time with me to July 2, 1994.
Odessa, Texas...Two girls - age 22
Memory that will last a lifetime....

Everybody was talking about the Eagles concert - they were going to be in Texas Stadium on July 3rd...the Midland/Odessa area was buzzing about it. This tour was the first Eagles tour in many...many years. In fact the tour was called "Hell Freezes Over" because Don Henley (drummer & front man) said in the late seventies after the band broke-up that the only way he would get back together would be..."if hell freezes over".

Christin & I wanted to go but we didn't plan to go. The night before the concert we were out and met up with some friends that were going to the lake the next day and invited us to go with them. So...Saturday July 3rd Chris & I got dressed to go to the lake. We both had swimsuit, shorts, & t-shirts on...I didn't even have my purse - only my drivers licenses and twenty bucks...Christin did have her purse...and her paycheck. As we were driving to the lake I asked her if she "really wanted to go to the lake"...and she said "nope...not really." She then asked the question that will forever be one of my favorite memories in life...she asked "well...what do you want to do?"...and I said..."I want to go to Dallas and see the Eagles"...and she said..."me too". (I remember that as if it happened yesterday! We were so young...and innocent...sort of.)

We grabbed a Dallas newspaper to find some tickets...called a ticket shop and secured two tickets...she cashed her paycheck...and off the Dallas we went! I remember being so excited but nervous...even though I was 22 I lived at home with my parents and I was hesitant to call Mom and tell her that I took off to Dallas...without a purse, or clothes, or money. Chris was in the same boat...she lived with her brother - she was totally scared to call him! When we got to Dallas we picked up our tickets, went to Chili's to eat, and decided to call home to let everyone know where we were at. Chris decided to call first and all I remember her brother saying was something along the lines of "your a** is grass when you get home!" My Mom was mad because she thought we had planned this without her...she loves the Eagles!

The concert was great...simply the best!! We danced, sang out loud to all of the songs, and didn't miss a single thing! It was one of the best nights of my life. After we left the concert we decided to stay the night...we were really tired. We checked into a LaQuinta in Fort Worth...as we were going into our room...there were people sleeping in the bed!!! All Chris could say was "I see flesh...I see flesh!" We screamed and ran to the front office! They gave us another room...we banged on the door at least two minutes before we opened it...and once we were in the room we put the dresser against the door! We got up early the next day to go home - I don't remember Mom...or Chris's brother being too terribly mad at us.

I can't believe it has been 15 years!
Thank you Christin for giving me a GREAT memory!!

Here are some pictures of me & Christin Paige through out the years. We have been best friends over 30 years.

Three Things...

Since last Wednesday I have been suffering with sinus/allergy issues.
My doctor called me in some medicine but it is taking forever to shake this stuff!
In my pursuit to find relief I have found several items that I have decided I can never live without...and why am I just now finding them??

I had heard that the Neti Pot provides great relief...and it does! It might seem disgusting to funnel water up one nostril to see it come out the other nostril...but there is great relief . Trust the Neti...

Okay...this stuff is amazing...although it is just like Vicks Vaporub except liquid...you know the stuff your Mother would rub all over your chest when you were stuffed up. It burns but your nasal passages open up immediately! Feel the burn!!

And this stuff...awwwww. I slept like a rock...and I woke up this morning without feeling hungover. I would like to shake the hand of the man that invented this stuff. The ad is actually true...it is for the nighttime, sniffling, sneezing, coughing, aching, fever, best sleep you ever got with a cold medicine.

My Son...Chews Gum.

Last Tuesday as I was trying to entertain John while waiting for my doctor's appointment I decided to introduce him to chewing gum.
I gave him a very small bite. To my amazement...he simply chewed it without swallowing it. I was shocked! He was chewing gum...like he had done it a million times before! I kept asking him to show me his gum and he would open his mouth so that I could see the gum...I was very concerned that he would swallow/or get choked on it...then there would be a "big" scene in the waiting room...I don't know what I was thinking. I was trying to keep him happy & quite...and still.
About thirty minutes later he handed it back to me.

We have had gum several times since then including tonight - notice the orange piece in the bottom of his mouth. Sometimes he will hand me to "used" piece when he is done...and sometimes he accidentally drops it out of his mouth - but no swallowing!

I know...such a simply...silly little thing...but I am so proud!

F.F.F.

Happy 4th of July!