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Thursday, February 21, 2013

Anxiety



anx·i·e·ty  

/aNGˈzī-itē/
Noun
  1. A feeling of worry, nervousness, or unease, typically about an imminent event or something with an uncertain outcome.
  2. Desire to do something, typically accompanied by unease.
Synonyms
worry - concern - care - uneasiness - trouble - disquiet

I seriously was misinformed about this word.  This word that I think defines my life.  For some reason I adequate anxiety with Fear.  Being scared of things.  Until last night when I saw a thing on Pinterest with the actual definition of this word.  This word, that defines my life, did I realize just how wrong I was about this word.  I worry about EVERYTHING.  The dumbest things too.  Do I yell to much? Am I not firm enough? Is this where I should be in my life? I worry if other people are happy or if I say something will they be mad.  Why can't I take control of my weight? Why can't I make friends?  I at least 90% of the time am worrying about one useless thing (I probably can't control anyway) or another.  It's taking over my life, This word that I really had no idea what it meant.  No idea the role it was playing in my life.  I mean I know people that struggle with anxiety and I never would have thought to put myself in that box, until I actually read the definition.  This word that I think will forever change my life.

I've often wondered about depression and yet, it just doesn't fit.  I think overall I'm a very happy person, I'm blessed with great family and friends and we don't lack for much really.  But yet, there is this ongoing sense of worry, Worrying about EVERYTHING.  Will we find a house? If we do what will we do with the house we have?  I worry about having to pack all our stuff and move it.  I worry about having to re-register lily in a new school.  I worry about the weird ants that have made a home in my house, or the fact that the children cry all the time.  I worry that I'm not a good wife, a good mother, a good enough friend.  And all of these things are not productive.  They don't help anything, especially my mind set.  I start off on these chains of things to worry about with one thing right after the next.

I always thought that I didn't want to talk about this.  This awful feeling of dread.  That I always feel even when things are going well.  But maybe I should?  Maybe it's not as weird as I thought?  Maybe the way to fix it is to acknowledge that I may have a problem here and that my dependence on making people happy is all a way to appease my anxiety?  Who knows? But I plan to find out.  I plan to make some steps in the right direction with this and see what comes of it.  Learn to breath, try to break this terrible cycle of worry.  Talk to my doctor.  You can bet your butt, now that I think I know what's going on, I intend to make it better.

Thursday, December 1, 2011

12 Month Update!

Yup!  We made it a WHOLE YEAR.  I can hardly believe it.  Happy Birthday Claire Bear!


At 12 months Claire:

...has 7 teeth, three of which are still working their way into that cute little mouth of hers.

...stands independently and walks with assistance

... babbles incessantly and says a few words.

...laughs hysterically when you tickle her on her chest.

(I think there might be some face that ISN'T covered with cake...no, wait...there isn't)
...loves sweets.

...had her first ear infection at her one year checkup.

...loves to be the center of attention

...weighs in at 18lbs 8oz.  (One pound lighter than lily was at the same age)  And she sits right at about 5% for weight.

(Sisters, Lily of course opened all Claire's presents and has even claimed a few of them)

...loves her big sister more than anyone else in the world.

...actually will try to take a few steps on her own.

...has been both challenging and rewarding over the last year.  Pushed us to our limits and then brought us back in with that gorgeous smile of hers.

...has a very sensitive soul.  Fun, playful, thoughtful and thinks things through before she does anything.

...even though she wakes up early she is NOT a morning baby.  She rarely will just wake up and babble or play alone.  She wants out of her prison (also known as the crib) as soon as she's awake.

...still wakes up in the middle of the night occasionally.

...has completely given up the bottle in lieu of a soft top sippy cup.

(She went straight for the frosting)

...thinks it's the funniest thing ever when you tickle her inner thighs.

...loves anything with buttons and knobs.

...can dance like it's nobody's business and I can honestly say, my girl has moves.

(what?  Wait until it's OUT of the box?  No way)

...says "hi" "momma" "dadda" "up" and "pup"  My favorite is when she puts anything resembling a phone to her ear and says "HI"

...is beautiful and amazing and I really couldn't imagine life without her.  My girls love each other and they play together and I can see them growing and changing together and it really is amazing that Adam and I created these two beautiful little people.  I can't wait to see what the next year brings!



...

Monday, November 7, 2011

Mommy and Me Time.

Happy Monday!

It was a good weekend.  Miss Lily and I went out and did some shopping together.  We got her a new coat (much needed,  she's been wearing the same one for 3 years) And she picked out her Christmas dress.  Yes, I know it seems early but we are going to be getting family pictures done this week and I wanted to have one for her then.  After we shopped for our coat and our dress then we stopped and looked at all the Barbies...So that we could tell Santa what we wanted for Christmas.  Lily and I went and ate at Space Aliens together and then played a few games.  Then we stopped at Goodwill to check out their Halloween stuff so we got a few things for next year as far as pumpkin carving goes, we are set.

After we got home lily laid down for a while and watched a movie and rested.  Then it was such a beautiful day out that we all went outside to hang out and play.  The sand was damp in the sandbox so we made a bunch of molds and tried making a few sand castles.  We played outside for a couple hours (at least it FELT like a couple hours) and then we went in and hung out inside.


Now to just get them adjusted to the time change.  Yesterday was a pretty productive day.  I got a bookshelf moved up to the girls' room and all the books up there since the baby feels it is her sole duty to rid the earth of everything made of paper.  We read most of the books up there anyway so it only makes sense. I will say the bookshelf looks really nice up there too!  Lily digs it.


Thursday, November 3, 2011

Coupons...Yes, I'm still ON that.

So I had all these great intentions of sharing my deals with you guys and helping out when I can.  But really I can barely find the time to put together my own list of coupons let alone a list for everyone else.  SO I thought I would share some of my favorite websites.

Coupon Divas

This site is awesome for all the printable coupons.  It takes you through all 4 of the major places to get online coupons and you can stay on the same site to do it, which is a huge bonus for me.  Sadly most of there match-ups are for stores we don't have.  But if you shop at Target or CVS or Walgreens. It's perfect.  I also really like their coupon database, which lists coupons that will be coming out in the upcoming paper, if you search by date.  Let's me know if it's even worth buying a paper that week.

Disclaimer: We don't always get the same coupons they list, but it's usually pretty close.

Creative Couponing 

This site is awesome because the offer Coborns and Cashwise match ups each week, so it's a great place to check for coupon matchups.

Pocket Your Dollars

This site also is a local one.  So they offer Coborns, Cashwise, Cub and Rainbow foods match ups.  Also they feature a lot of money saving tips and other local deals.

Krazy Coupon Lady

I do Like this site a lot but I don't use it as much as some of the ones listed above, but it's also a good resource for any coupony stuff.

You can also get some good printable coupons from Coborns and Cashwise under their coupon tabs.

Enjoy and happy shopping.  There is a lot of baking stuff and soups on sale this time of year so make sure you stock up when you find a good deal!


Wednesday, November 2, 2011

Let's Be Serious.

Claire had a second flu shot appointment on Monday at 4:00.  Not the most convenient thing in the world but I know how important it is for her to have the flu shot so I sucked it up.  I left work at 3:30 and somehow picked up the girls and got to the clinic with like 2 minutes to spare.  I still had to sit for a good 5-10 minutes and wait. Wait for them to tell me that she couldn't have it.  They miss-scheduled the appointment and she couldn't have it until Thursday since that would be 1 month.  Seriously?  3 days early and they won't just do it?  Is it really going to make that much of a difference?  Ok so we get to reschedule.  We get up to the front and Lily decides not to listen to me when I asked her to do something.  So I simply told her that we would not be getting any of our Halloween treats when we get home if she continues to act that way.  To which she responded by throwing herself on the floor screaming.  AWESOME.  I finally get her to get up and again reinforced the, we will not be getting any treats tonight.  And what does the appointment scheduler do?  Offers her a sucker if she will stop crying and listen to mommy.  Thanks bitch.  OF COURSE she stopped crying, OF COURSE she says she will be a good girl and listen to mommy now.  You gave her what she was crying for.  Little do you know lady that the second we got out of your office I made her put that sucker right in my purse and told her she could have it when she could learn to act like the good girl I know she is.  I wish I had been able to keep my temper so I could have politely told you where you could stick that sucker while making a point to my 3 year old and to you that it's not ok to undermine a parent when they are trying to teach a valuable lesson to a kid whose freaking out over candy.

So what did Lily learn?  If mommy says no treats all I have to do is freak out and scream and annoy the receptionist enough and she'll give me candy.  I win, I act the way I want and get what I want.

Nice message to send my kid lady.  Nice message.

On a related note, I'm kinda getting tired of the fact that everywhere I take Lily people try to give her stickers or suckers or whatever.  I mean I really do get it and if she's being a good girl then I'm totally fine with her having a little treat.  But it's gotten to the point where now when we go to the store, she asks where her sticker or her treat is if she isn't handed one at the checkout.  So what do I do?  I've told her that it's not something we can expect and have every time...but she's three and I don't think the message is getting across.  Do I politely decline their offer of a treat for her, even if she IS being good?  I'm just not sure.  Also, I'm curious.  Am I the only one who is having a hard time with this?

11 Months!

Happy 11 Months Claire!

At 11 months, Claire can...

...stand independently and bend over to pick things up.

...say "up" "mama" "papa" "dada" "this" "pup"

...points at everything and is very curious about it all.

...laughs hysterically if you nibble right below her arm pits.

...loves to blow kisses and play pat-a-cake.

...waves bye bye.

...is still a dancing fool.

...loves people and attention.

...pretty much eats what we eat now, minus a few minor things.

...wears size 3 diapers still.

...wears 9-12 month clothes.  Still some 6-9 month.

...follows big sister wherever she goes.

...is working her sippy cup skills.

...made a MAD kitty cat for Halloween!

...gets into a lot of trouble...climbing, crawling, opening and closing.

...loves to give hugs.

...sleeps pretty good for the most part.

...has beautiful blond hair and blue eyes.

My sweet Baby Claire.  I can't believe you are 11 months old.  I wish I could keep you just the way you are forever!

Tuesday, November 1, 2011

November already?

Well Halloween went off without a hitch in our house!  Lily was Rapunzel and Claire was Pasquel the kitty cat. Yes, I'm aware that that is not how it works but I couldn't find a lizard costume and Lily seemed happy with it.  We took them to grandma's house and then out to trick or treat.  Lily got pretty tired pretty early on.  Not sure what was up with that, but she's three and I've come to realize that the moment you actually DO understand them then you are just as crazy as they are.  So I don't really try anymore.  Basically daddy got to carry her between houses.  But both girls did great.  Lily got a lot of extra candy for Claire since we didn't bring a bucket for Claire.  I did not expect people to give candy to the baby, I mean it's not like she'll really eat it anyway.  Oh well, Lily was excited so that's all that matters.

We carved pumpkins over the weekend and while Lily threw a temper tantrum of epic proportions on Saturday so we did not get to go and pick pumpkins together, I went and picked some up.  And since we did it early on Sunday morning we avoided any major meltdowns before the fun could be spoiled.  I think that's really a key with her, getting things done in the morning since she REFUSES to nap for me.  Sure, she'll lay quiet for about an hour, but it doesn't seem to matter much in the end.  Lily of course had a blast picking all the pumpkin guts out of the pumpkins and she helped carve the faces on them.  And of course seeing them all lit up was pretty cool for her too!

I promise, I do have pictures, of all the above stuff, I just have to bring my camera in one of these days, It's been while since I posted some new pictures on here.

I can't believe that it's November and it's time to start planning Thanksgiving and Christmas shopping and all that fun stuff.  This year has really been flying by.

Up next tomorrow.... Claire's ELEVEN month update...How did THAT happen?

Also, poor girl gets to go and get a flu shot tonight.  :-(

Tuesday, October 11, 2011

Claire's 10 Month Update

Hmmm, I realized this morning when I was reading other blogs that I have completely skipped Claire's 10 month update.  Probably cause it was on a Sunday.  Anyway, Only over a week overdue but here it is anyway.

At 10 months Claire can:

...Pull herself to standing and stand independently

...Wave bye bye

...play pat-a-cake

...say "up", "momma" and "dadda"

...Crawl all the way to the top of the stairs

...had a little setback with sleeping but is still a pretty good sleeper

...Still follows her big sister around like a puppy.

...can walk along furniture or behind a push toy.

...Can eat just about anything now.

...Isn't real thrilled with taking a bottle anymore

...Crawls now with her belly off the ground and does this crazy side walk with her tongue out and panting like a dog.

...Dances whenever she hears music.  And that girl has moves...Unless you have the video camera.  Then she stares at you like you have 2 heads.

This was the day before she turned 10 months. With her big sister Lily.

On a side note, I feel so incredibly bad that I have not taken good monthly photos of the baby like I did with Lily.  It pains me so much because I swore I wouldn't do that.  I haven't had pictures printed in a long time so now I'm not sure when the photos were taken.  I only hope that one day soon I will have the time to sit down and upload photos and get them printed soon.

Monday, September 19, 2011

Holy Guacamole

I have no clue what's been going on in the Philippi house lately.  My children are like pod people.  I'm not sure I like it much.

Claire is becoming so independent and Mobile and curious.  She is awesome by day and a holy terror come night.  She used to sleep so well and go to bed and sleep all night, sure she got up early but at least it was all night.  NOW she wakes up every couple hours and cries almost in her sleep.  I'm not sure what's going on with it.  I mean is she teething?  Is she too hot?  Too cold?  I have no clue but I do know one thing for sure.  I AM TIRED.

Then on the other hand, there is Lily.  Once a sweet and charming 3 year old has completely turned into Satan's spawn.  SHE sleeps great all night, but come daytime she is whiny and throwing tantrums and bossy and sassy.  Oh sure I know what you are thinking....NORMAL right?  Ugh. we are just so not used to her acting that way.  Lily can you put on your shoes <Insert whiny screaming tantrum here>

Long story short....they are tag teaming us.  Claire takes the night shift and Lily takes the day shift.  They are winning too.  I need a vacation.

Friday, September 2, 2011

Nine Months already....

At Nine Months Claire can...

.....crawl like a madbaby.

....sit herself up.

....pull herself up to standing.

....walk along things (if she's holding on).

....eat a ton of different foods, bananas, oranges, crackers, green beans....

....is still moody.

...has 4 teeth, all the front ones. 

...loves to dance.  turn some music on and watch the girl dance.

...follows her big sister around like a puppy.

...sleeps all night.

....takes two naps a day.

...crawls up the stairs.

...no longer wears a helmet. (not that that is news really but it is from last month).


Miss Bear one week shy of her 9 month mark!  Such a beautiful smile but man that girl is lucky she can grow her hair out!  She has her daddy's big ears!


Sisters.  And even though they LOOK like they are looking away from each other, this was there plan.  To make my life hard when trying to take pictures of them!


Happy Nine Months Baby Claire!

PS. I wonder how long we'll be calling her baby Claire?

Thursday, August 25, 2011

I'm letting the cat out of the bag...

Ok so we don't have a cat, but if we did it would no longer be in the bag.

I JOINED A GYM. 

Really I am just not cut out for keeping secrets or keeping things to myself AT. ALL.  So really if you have a secret I wouldn't tell me cause I'll go blabbing my mouth off to anyone who will listen.

I like the gym though actually.  I've been there like 4 times now and I signed up last week. (I know, I'm surprised I've kept it a secret this long too).  Actually I didn't want to tell you blogging world because I am notorious for starting things, being really excited about them and then quitting when the newness wears off.  But honestly I like the gym. I'm going in the mornings and Adam has stepped up to the plate and he gets the kids ready by himself so that I can go.  Plus my mornings are a LOT easier now.  I know that sounds crazy.  But I get up at like 5 and I have the whole quiet house to myself while everyone else sleeps.  I get my lunch ready in peace and quiet, wander to the gym and do my workout.  Take my shower in PEACE and quiet (minus the blaringly loud music thumping from the speakers at the gym that is.) and then casually drive into work.

It's nice.  And for now, I'm digging it.

Thursday, August 4, 2011

I seriously forgot to put a title on this the first time. Oops


Ok, So earlier this spring my my gave us this wagon.  It was in pretty bad shape from normal wear and tear and being out in the elements for too long etc.  Last weekend I had this Brilliant Idea inspired by some pictures I'd seen to use it for photos with my girls.  So I went and got some red paint and I was going to repaint it so I could use it in my pictures, but after looking at it, it was obvious more work would have to be done than just a simple coat of paint.  Here's the before:

I also want to note the fact that the small print next to the USA, says "Rust Resistant Body".

See what I mean?  Pretty rough, I thought most of the rust was on the inside of the wagon and I could just add a coat to cover it.  But the outside was in pretty bad shape as well as the handle.  I was talking with my boss about it last week and he said that I should bring it in and they would sandblast it for me so that I can repaint the whole thing and eliminate the rust on it.  So I did, and my co-worker blasted it for me yesterday.  Shown Below, Disassembled, blasted wagon:


Apparently that's what the metal looks like underneath.  But they gave me some new bolts as well and later that day I stopped at the store and got some primer and some black paint (for the handle of course).  And I got to work.  Naturally Lily was pretty bummed because spray painting is hard work for mommies let alone 3 year old Lilys.  So I did the brunt of the work myself.  Adam put it all back together for me when I was done and it looks good as new!  Minus the Logo, but that's fine.



I'm super happy about the way it turned out!  All for about $13 or so in paint and a couple of doughnuts for my coworker we have what looks like a brand new wagon!  I can't wait to do the pictures of my girls with it this weekend!  They are going to be so awesome!

PS  When I bought that paint I thought the color was going to be SO off, but once it was on the wagon I think it's just perfect and I'm happy it's a little brighter than your normal red wagon!



Wednesday, August 3, 2011

Top 10 Things I'd like do do but have never done before....Or in Short. The longest blog title ever!

1. Go on a fun vacation to a spa and not worry about money.

2. Be a famous rock star.

3. Come out of my shell and make new friends.

4. Be a world famous writer.

5. Have a humongous overly-large house with a housekeeper.

6. Own a business.

7. Sky dive.  Though I'm sure I'd totally chicken out...In fact I'm chickening out while I type this.

8. Have my own office.

9. Drive a really really fast car.

10. Be high maintenance.

What do YOU want to do that you've never done before?

Tuesday, August 2, 2011

8 Months Old!

Happy 8 months Claire!

At 8 months old you can:

...Eat finger foods!

...Crawl...army crawl anyway.  And you manage to get into EVERYTHING you aren't supposed to.

...From a sitting position, pull yourself to standing.

...Laugh uncontrollably when we eat your belly.  (Why is that so funny?  I'd be terrified if someone tried to eat my belly.)

...You are pretty much done with your helmet.

...You love your big sister though you sure wish she would learn to respect your own personal bubble.

...You still only have 2 teeth though I'd be willing to bet you have a few more working their way though.

...You SLEEP THROUGH THE NIGHT.  It's nice to finally be able to just write it out there for the world to know.  This has been a long journey and for this step I am oh so grateful!

...You will eat anything.  Literally.  (of course I mean any type of food but you have been known to eat things like paper and tissues and electrical cords...)

...You have grown quite attached to the dog.  Following him around like a puppy (pun intended)

...Your favorite word is "Mamamamama" 

....You really would be fine if you never saw your pacifier again.  But you do like to chew on it.

Happy 8 Months baby girl!  We love ya!

Monday, August 1, 2011

What IS it about a snugly baby anyway?

Last night I was sitting in the rocking chair with Claire.  Lily had already gone to bed and Adam was down in the basement trying to recover all the data from the laptop that just completely crashed.  Claire was oh so very tired and you could see it in her eyes.  And I could hold her many ways and she just kept trying to wiggle away until I held her tummy to my chest and she just collapsed in exhaustion.  No, she did not fall asleep but her little body went limp and her head snuggled in.  She was content.  Content to sit with me and snuggle. I put my cheek on the top of her head so I could feel her soft hair and feel the heat off of her.  And we both breathed into each other.  It was a long day and at that point in time, for that single half hour of the day, I was oh so thankful for the family I have.  Thankful that even though we've had some rough times, for the most part it's been awesome.  I held her and thought about how much I loved her and how much joy she brings me when she smiles and plays.  About how much her sister adores her and wants to do everything with her.  Then I found myself thinking about what life would be like if I had never got to experience the joy and comfort of holding my almost 8 month old baby close and comfy to me.  About how some people don't get to have children, no matter how wonderful they would be as parents, or how hard they try.  I found myself feeling sad for those people.

I'm so thankful that I've gotten to take this path with my life.  To have a husband who loves and supports me and two beautiful, healthy girls.  I wouldn't change it for anything.  Sometimes you just need a snugly baby to put life into perspective for you.

Wednesday, July 27, 2011

How DO you rotate pictures here anyway?

 Miss Claire enjoying some dinner.  ALMOST 8 months old here.

 With her almost 8 month old Mohawk Courtesy of Auntie Sarah.

Such a Happy Girl.  With such a BIG smile!

Miss Lily could be a model.  Ok, So I might be a little biased on this one but seriously, isn't she gorgeous?

Darn you Blogger and my lack of technical skills.  You'll just have to imagine this one flipped around.

She's giving attitude in this one...with her hand on her hip.

Admiring the water in the pool.

Friday, July 1, 2011

Happy 7 Months Claire Bear....

Wow 7 months already! 

At 7 months old Miss Claire....

....rolls around like a mad baby.

....is only wearing her helmet part time.

....does most of her talking when big sister isn't around, but can be quite the chatter box.

....loves to jump jump jump JUMP.

...loves to laugh.

....is pretty much ALWAYS sleeping through the night now. (knock on wood)  Meaning Down at 8:30pm and up around 5-5:30 or so. 

...Still thinks big sister is the greatest thing since sliced bread.

...is trying desperately to crawl...pulling her back legs up...it won't be long now.

....can stand on her own holding onto something.

....thinks daddy is pretty neat.  And funny.  As with Lily, Daddy is one of her favorite play time toys. As she loves to be tossed in the air and dropped on the couch.

...has TWO teeth.  On the bottom and they came in about halfway through her 6th month.  She has been very agreeable since they broke the surface.

....Usually takes a couple of catnaps during the day with one longer one right in the middle.

Last night I was holding her and she was laughing and giggling and would NOT fall asleep.  I even thought to myself how I missed holding her and cuddling her while she sleeps.  I really really thought it would be a LONG time before that day came. But there I was, last night missing cuddling her.  Not that I never get to anymore but she surely falls asleep better if you just lay her down in her crib.

My baby is over a half a year old.  I just don't know how that has happened. 

10 things I hate about being the F word....

Also my 10 reasons for needing a change:

1. I hate the way I feel when I look down at my tummy or look in the mirror.

2. I hate the way my thighs rub together when I wear a skirt or shorts.

3. I hate the negative thoughts that run through my head because I can't get my eating under control.

4. I hate being tired all the time.

5. I hate how easily I get winded.

6. I hate how unsexy I feel

7. I hate that the majority of the time I STILL wear maternity pants...HELLO my baby is 7 MONTHS old.

8. I hate that I whine about how fat I feel/am all the time, I'm sure people get sick of it.

9. I hate this love/hate relationship I have with food.

10. I hate the unhealthy example I'm setting for my girls.

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

I need more...JOIN me!

So I've been thinking to myself.  Self...what can I do that would help me to lose weight and stick to a plan?  The idea I had.  Join a weight loss group.  A group of like minded people who are practically trying to lose weight in their every day busy life.  No matter if you have kids or not, no matter if you have 100 pounds to lose or 5.  A place where people won't judge you...and won't cost you an arm and a leg.  THAT is what I need.  A group that meets weekly, close to my home (or in my home) where we can talk about our weeks, our struggles and maybe talk about some new ideas and things we can do to help each other.  Talk about some new foods we've tried and like.

So now I have the idea.  Now I just need the people.  So who's with me?  I'll "Lead" the group!  We can meet where ever but my house will always be open (provided you don't judge me by the fact that it looks like a bomb has gone off  in there 3 minutes before you arrive)  We can find a time that works for most people and we can have healthy snacks, hang out and talk about our struggles, our accomplishments and just in general have a safe place that we don't have to feel judged for our choices.  (anyone who knows me I've been on and off the wagon 9 trillion times)

So WHO'S with me?!  I don't care how many people. 1,2 or 20.

Either comment here, On Facebook or you can email me and we'll start getting things set up!  I sure hope you join me.  Lord knows I could use the help and I think that this could be just what I need!

You can EMAIL ME here by the way.

Friday, June 17, 2011

Weekly Wrap Up. An No I'm Not Talking About Lunch.

So I've been super busy at work lately.  It's kinda nice.  I mean it feels good to truly be needed here and know they they would struggle without me.  I like feeling needed and like it matters if I am here or not.  On the downside though, my COUPON book looks like someone attached it with a scissors and not in a good way.  I also don't have much time for emails or keeping up with my blog. Though these days I don't feel like I have a whole lot to say anyway.

On the coupon front, I'm still managing to chug along.  Last week I actually saved 47% of my bill using coupons!  I got some great stuff including $.63 Hamburger Helper, a few deodorants and body washes and stuff that were on sale AND a buy one get one free coupon with them.  So I stocked up on those.  Let's just say Adam won't have any excuse to be smelly for a while as he now has SIX deodorants waiting for him in the cupboard.  And No I don't think I'm turning into one of those people.  I don't really buy much in qty's like that actually.  Only stuff I know won't expire, soaps, diapers etc.  Yes, I'm totally justifying it.  It does make me sad though that I won't need to buy some stuff for a while  but it's also a good thing, I can start moving into the "actually spending less money cause we are stocked up on stuff already" phase.  Which is nice and will certainly make Adam happy.  But it works out great that I can kinda pick and choose and my nerdy self started a spreadsheet for prices so that I know if I'm really getting a good deal or not, as I've been burned a few times on stuff and I want to avoid that if I can.  Cause really, Just cause you HAVE a coupon for it doesn't make it a good deal.  Do your research.  Someday I hope to post some good deals on here when I can find the energy to get around to it.  There are a few good deals this week at Coborns for General Mills cereals, Pillsbury croissants, and go-gurt and stuff.

Anyway.  The girls are good.  We took a few nights to really be strict with the Baby's sleeping schedule and that seems to be working so far, she has been sleeping a little better.  Getting up earlier but at least she is sleeping all night so it's nice to get a few more hours in a row of sleep.  But man we had a few rough nights in there.  I can't believe how much she's changing every day.  Adam and I have been taking videos of her like crazy lately but they are stuck on our phones.  So one of these days I'll have to get those off and post them.  That baby has an amazing laugh.  Lily is still VERY much into the princesses.  "*poof* I change you into a beautiful princess".  Honestly I don't think I can count how many times I hear that in a day.  I'm ok with this, I get to bat my eyelashes and be beautiful for a few minutes a day anyway.

We took Lily fishing a few weekends ago, of course we didn't catch any fish but she had fun trying I think.

Adams workplace just got sold to another large bank.  So we aren't sure what that is going to mean for us...as of right now nothing I suppose.  But gradually things will probably change. I just hope that our benefits stay awesome, but I guess we just won't know until the takeover is complete and all that. 

Hmmm What else?  We had a couple of really hot days but other than that it's been so nice.  Lower 70's  I'd be totally fine with that all summer.  But eventually it's going to hit us hard I imagine.  Hoping to get to the beach and go swimming with the girls this summer too but we'll see what it brings I guess.