Ummmm.

So much to say, so little to say. I'll choose to say nothing and post photos of my 20 month old babies instead.

When they wear their little Widgeon coats with the hoods up, people either tell us that they look like they are from another country or like little elf children. Not sure if either is really a compliment, but that's what we hear.

So, to my little Elfen International babies, I love you.

.

A little lighter

Both in topic and hair.

Maddy and Libby had their first haircuts yesterday. Truly more of a trim, but it was definitely time to clean up the curly mullets that had formed. Almost 20 months of hair growing. Sigh. I'll miss that long hair after bath night when it formed into perfect little damp curls.

Libby modeling the "before" photo.

No one told me that lollipops were the secret for getting toddlers to sit still.

The "after" photo. The nail polish stand was a complete bonus ... they loved it and luckily even put them all back in their spots. Not sure if it was still color coded when we left, but at least they weren't on the floor.

Whine.

Thanks to everyone for the prayers for my Mom. I really do appreciate it and she seems to be doing well. When I talked to her yesterday, she sounded great and her only real complaint was that her throat hurt from having a tube in during surgery.

She will go back in March to find out the stage of the cancer, and also learn more about her treatment plan. So far, so good and she is extremely positive. I also loved hearing about the treats that my Sister-in-Law and one of her friends had brought. Everything from steps so she can get into their (very high) bed easier, hand sanitizer, mints, bubble bath, Cheez-Its, button front shirts, etc.

Yesterday, after Maddy and Libby woke up from their nap, I was taking a few photos so I could send some to my Mom. New photos always make her happy and she had reminded me that she was looking at photos from Thanksgiving and didn't have that many from 2010. Subtle hint, huh?

I noticed that Maddy looked flushed, so I took her temperature ... 103! Yikes! It's never been that high, so I called the Pediatrician and spoke to one of the nurses. Just a virus and not much else to do other than Tylenol/Motrin, lukewarm baths, humidifier, etc. Poor girl. She did OK last night, but was pretty needy this morning. We read lots of books and pointed out all of the dogs. Sweet girl. She and Libby are now at the coffee table eating Ritz crackers and seem to be having a good time. The Motrin is helping, but they said the fever could potentially hang around for 3 days. She's not pulling at her ear or having any breathing issues, so that is good news, but I still hate that she's not feeling 100%. At least she's eating something, because she didn't have much to eat at breakfast.

Of course by the evening, I also noticed that I didn't feel great. Sore throat, etc. Lovely. So, I've been taking my Emergen-C, drinking hot tea, and digging into my bag of throat lozenges. Great. Like everyone, I just don't have time to be sick and of course, it's coming up for when we have plans. 1st haircuts for Maddy & Libby today, Bounce House with the Moms of Multiples group tomorrow, 1st birthday party on Saturday, 10 mile run on Sunday.

So who knows what will actually happen this weekend ... Libby may be playing solo daughter while the sick girls stay home.

I feel like

I'm writing about anything, everything, and nothing simply because I don't want to have to write what I need to write about.

My Mom has breast cancer.

It's all happened so fast that all of us are still spinning.

Back in early January, my Mom had a rash on her hand so she called her Doctor to get a prescription filled. He wouldn't fill it without seeing her, so off she went. Thank you, Dr. Sussman.

While she was being examined, he noticed a lump in her underarm and sent her in for a mammogram.

My Mom has always been healthy, but has also been one to not go to her appointments like she should.

So she went and while they determined that the lump was just fatty tissue, they did find find some abnormalities during the mammogram. So, she had a biopsy, and they found cancer in her left breast.

This was at the point when she finally told me and she was very nonchalant about the whole thing. She was just glad to know what it was and that it was treatable, that there was a solution.

So, the solution is a lumpectomy to remove the cancer and lymph nodes, followed with radiation and chemotherapy.

It sucks and it's scary, and we all still can't believe that it's happened. To my Mom. I know that is how every other person who finds out that their parent has a serious illness feels.

She honestly sounds OK. She's more concerned with finding a good front closure sports bra to wear after surgery, wondering whether or not my Dad is going to overcook her chicken for dinner, or if she can find a wig that won't make her look like Dolly Parton.

I'm not going for the actual surgery, which is tomorrow and I am feeling guilty about that. Luckily my Dad and the rest of my family are there. I'm planning to go in a couple of weeks so I can help out and do whatever they need.

It's scary and while we've always said that she's tough, it's just not what you want to see your Mom go through.
To my friends in real life, I'm sorry I couldn't say anything ... I just didn't know where to start or what to say. It honestly hasn't felt real and still doesn't. The surgery is tomorrow and she should be home by 5pm. She'll find out more about radiation and chemotherapy tomorrow and we're all just hoping and praying for her Dr.'s and that the cancer is truly in an early stage.

I have always believed that prayers are private and something that you can do by yourself any time of day or night, but it's been rare that I've had to ask for people to pray for me or my family. Now I'm asking if you do pray, please consider sending up good thoughts for my Mom.

Lunch

Maddy and Libby's lunch today is brought to you by ...

the letter P.

Pizza (leftover from our dinner last night. Made from local tomatoes, basil, buffalo mozzarella cheese, and truffle oil. Yum)
Peas
Pears
Pound cake (from a friend of ours ... double yum.)

Somewhat healthy, except for the pound cake and decently balanced. It also helped get rid of some leftovers and kept me from eating another piece of pound cake.

I have my eye on ...

Not that I need a party dress by any means, but when I go to the Harris-Teeter near our house, I drive by Brooks Brothers on the way out. This dress is on a mannequin in the window and I love the way it looks and I can't help but slow down and look at it every time I'm there.

It's classic, timeless, but still the polka dots make it a little more fun. While I love Brooks Brothers for Hubby's work clothing, I typically find their clothing a little "mature" for me. This model actually looks a little bit stuffy and uptight. I think I may like the headless mannequin version better.

Since I have no party to wear this dress, nor do I have $300 lying around to spend on it, I guess I'll be happy to window shop.

Thankful

Today, I am thankful for running.

Without the ability to run the past couple of weeks, I would have been a total wreck. I can literally feel the stress build before a run and leave following.

I am also thankful that I have those little back-up sensors on my car. Without them, I'm nearly 100% positive that I would have rammed right into several cars, including the plumbing van that likes to park directly behind our driveway while he is working on the house under construction on our street.

Wednesday Haiku

Bed late, wake early
Windy, hot coffee, shower
Up and thinking now.

I can't help but feel all "Deep Thoughts with Jack Handy." I don't think I've written a Haiku since 8th grade!

Why is it on the night that I'm up late, that I also wake up early? I may have also been scared that a big ol' tree was going to come crashing down on our house. It's super windy today.

Coffee made, and I'm showered. At least I can say I accomplished two things today!

Smart.

I love things that are just smart.

Like this little handy guide.

I stayed at the Hyatt Regency in Savannah recently and I noticed that they had these little cards with a 3.5 mile running route mapped out. Everything was easily marked, and it was on a waxy type card stock that you could hold in your sweaty palm, but you'd still be able to read the writing.

Apparently, this is a program of Hyatt's. Everyone else in the world may know about this, but I had never seen this. Maybe it's been a while since I stayed in a Hyatt.

I noticed that they had Garmins you could check out, and even workout clothing available. A great way to get a work out in while you're traveling. I will say that I just did my run on the treadmill while I was there, but I just love this idea.

Diaper Bag contents

Diapers (duh)
Wipes
Ritz crackers
Cheerios
Another container with assorted cook-cook-cookies, like Annie's graham cracker bunnies and Earth's Best alphabet cookies. (Maddy and Libby usually pronounce cookies as "cook cook".)
Sippy cups
Tylenol
Ziploc bags
Changing Pad
Bottle of red wine
Board books
Saline spray for stuffy noses
Antibacterial wipes

Oh, you don't carry a bottle of wine in your diaper bag?

I normally don't, but since we were going to a Super Bowl party tonight, it made more sense to just throw it in there instead of carrying it. But on some days, it's probably a really good idea.

I'm not a huge football fan, so I really didn't watch much of the game. But after a 9-mile run this afternoon, I was happy to enjoy my fair share of stuffed jalapeno peppers. I love these ... a jalapeno pepper stuffed with some sort of cream cheese, cheddar cheese, and sausage mixture, then baked in the oven. So, so good.

Maddy and Libby ate the hostess out of crackers and Tostito scoops. They also enjoyed opening every drawer in her kitchen and playing in the dog's water bowl. Their bedtime was about an hour later than usual. We read one book and they were definitely ready to drift off to sleep.

Let's just say that I haven't logged onto Weight Watchers all week and that may come back to haunt me tomorrow on my weigh in day. Hubby and I have had a little pity party this week and haven't been counting points this week. Thank goodness nearly all the chocolate chip cookies are out of the house.

Why does snow

make me want to eat?

All I can say is it's a good thing that I don't live in North Dakota.

I was "that girl" at the grocery yesterday who really did need to buy milk. When I'm lugging my gallon of organic Vitamin D, I feel like I should proclaim "I really do need this ... I have twins at home!"

Hubby is back braving the crowds and snow for the rest of our supplies since I was planning to do the grocery shopping today.

On tap to make this weekend:

Taco Soup for today ... a mix between a tortilla soup and chili. Yum! From my friend, Kelly

3 FROZEN chicken breasts (or ground beef or turkey)
1 envelope ranch dressing mix
1 envelope taco seasoning mix
1 medium onion, diced
1 can rotel tomatoes
1 can black beans 1 can cannelli (or any white) beans
1 can kidney beans
1 can vegetarian baked beans
1 can kernel corn

Put everything in crockpot in order listed. Do NOT rinse or drain beans. Add a little chicken broth as needed.

DO NOT STIR. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours. Take chicken out and shred with two forks. Put chicken back in, stir, and eat.

It's A LOT of beans, but you can always use what you have and not follow the directions precisely. I'd love to try to make this with dried beans so you don't have as much sodium. It's really good to top with a bit of shredded pepper jack cheese, sour cream, and a few tortilla chips!

Chicken Cordon Bleu, ala Weight Watchers
Ingredients
4 spray(s) cooking spray, or enough to coat chicken
1 pound(s) uncooked boneless, skinless chicken breast, four 4-oz pieces
3 oz Boar's Head Smoked Ham, or other brand, four 3/4 oz slices
3 oz low-fat Swiss cheese, four 3/4-oz slices
1/4 cup(s) all-purpose flour
1/4 cup(s) honey mustard
1/2 cup(s) seasoned bread crumbs, Italian-style

Instructions
Preheat oven to 400°F. Coat a baking sheet with olive oil cooking spray.
Place chicken breasts between two pieces of plastic wrap and pound to 1/4-inch thickness; remove plastic wrap. Arrange 1 slice of ham and 1 slice of cheese on each chicken breast.
Starting from shorter end of chicken, roll up breast into a tight pinwheel. Tuck in ends. Secure with toothpicks.
Place flour, honey mustard and bread crumbs in 3 separate shallow bowls. Add chicken to flour; turn to coat. Transfer chicken to honey mustard; turn to coat. Place chicken in bread crumbs; turn to coat.
Transfer chicken to prepared baking sheet and coat with cooking spray. Bake until chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 40 minutes. Remove toothpicks and serve.

This has been one of our favorite WW recipes ... great flavor and it's really easy to make.

Apricot Pork Chops, ala Cooking Light
5 1/2 cup apricot preserves
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon bottled minced garlic (I use a garlic clove and mince it myself)
1 teaspoon low-sodium soy sauce
1/2 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/8 teaspoon black pepper
4 boneless pork chops

Combine first 5 ingredients in a small bowl; set aside. Combine salt, cinnamon and pepper, and sprinkle over both sides of pork. Heat a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Coat pan with cooking spray. Add pork to pan; cook 4 minutes on each side or until desired degree of doneness. Remove skillet from heat; add apricot mixture, turning pork to coat. Place 1 chop on each of 4 dinner plates; spoon remaining apricot mixture evenly over chops.

This may be a new favorite - the flavor of the sauce is good. The recipe doesn't call for it, but I think the apricot sauce would be good to warm it up instead of leaving it cold.

We also decided if a bag of dark chocolate chips just happened to fall into the shopping cart, that a batch of chocolate chip cookies wouldn't be a bad thing at all.

Another Valentine's Day idea

If you have a Kohl's in your city, you know that they are constantly giving great coupons.



If you were in the market for a pair of new PJ's, aren't these for cute and comfy Valentine's pj's? Or for any other day, too.
I know the picture doesn't do it justice, but it's a pink and white heart print that almost looks like an animal print, with a dark grey trim. Plus, you can't beat the price because I'm sure you're going to find a nice 40% off coupon to buy them soon.

Cute, comfy, and perfect for that upcoming Hallmark holiday!

Where is the sun?

I really need the sun to come out and for the rain/sleet/snow to go away so I can get back to running outside and not at the gym.

Tonight at the gym, on the treadmill, this girl was skipping and bounding on the treadmill. I've done this type of workout in the park, but not on a treadmill with someone three feet away from you.

Unfortunately, we are supposed to get hit with another weather system by the weekend. I know everyone in the North just laughs at us, but the South is just not equipped to deal with snow. Schools closed early on Friday and one flake hadn't hit the ground and the schools are closed again tomorrow.
Oh, and M&L's Mother's Morning Out operates on the school system closings, so they haven't been all week. So, I definitely have to figure out a fun outing tomorrow for them ... one where they can run and play and use some of their energy. I think I'll get brave and take them to the Children's Museum on my own and hope that they don't run off in two separate directions.

So, here's wishing that I won't have the need for those little child leashes tomorrow.

Thinking about ...

• Wondering if my Multi Vites gummy vitamins are really vitamins or if they are just gummy bears of sorts. I picked these up when I was tired of choking down a big horse pill'ish vitamin, but I really wonder if they are doing anything vitamin-wise. But they do taste pretty good!
• Does anyone else have a hotel room coffee aversion? I traveled this weekend to a conference and my roommate made coffee one morning. I've always called it bathroom coffee and I think I don't like the fact that you have to make it with water out of the bathroom sink. Also, the powdered creamer just grosses me out a bit. Even though I had to pay a ridiculous amount for a cup of coffee in the hotel cafe, I'm convinced it was worth the money.
• I visited the land of butter, Savannah, GA, but didn't take the pilgrimage to Paula Deen's restaurant, The Lady & Sons. We tried to go twice. Once they were closed, and the second time they had over a two hour wait. From the reviews I've heard, I don't know if I'm really missing out on much, but I did hear that her gooey butter cake is something not to be missed. Any reviews?

Observations at the gym

1. When it's near 6PM and you see that the parking lot is packed with cars, why do you either bother going to the big lot? Just go to the smaller lot that will cause you to walk a few more steps because circling the parking lot like a shark isn't going to make a parking spot appear any quicker. Oh, and after all ... aren't you at the gym to get a little exercise?

2. There were quite a few "extreme" runners there tonight. When I say extreme, I mean they had the treadmill cranked to the point that I thought they might fly off the back. I don't know if it was some kind of interval training, but the guy by me kept doing this off and on, for about 5 minutes at a time.

3. If you plan on walking on the treadmill, it might be wise to bring a pair of pants that are a), not too large and b) not too long. When you have to stop and roll up your sweatpants, then pull on them every few minutes, it usually makes for an awkward stint on the treadmill. Oh, and while you're at it, put your hat on straight. Did I just sound like a Grandpa or what?

I promise that I really try to go to the gym, do my workout, and get out of there. I'm really not checking people out that closely, but why do I always find myself trapped by people like #2 and #3? I forgot to mention my guy from last week who was "boxing" while running on the treadmill. Cue the Rocky music now ...

I just got transported back to Middle School

and I think I like it.

Look what the new Lands End Canvas website has!

Tretorns!I remember having a pair of white on white Tretorns, but also a pair with plaid. Loved them.

They also have anklet socks with the pom-pom on the back. I remember having these too.
Plus, all kinds of casual, classic clothes, bathing suits, canvas tote bags, and accessories at reasonable prices. Definitely worth a look.

Uncharted waters

I did something that I have never done before. In my life, or for atleast as long as I've been doing laundry on my own.

You can ask any roommate or Hubby.

I dried my jeans. (insert gasp here.)

Ok, ok ... so it may not be any big deal, but it was for me. I have had a no jean drying rule for as long as I can remember. I guess I've always had a big paranoia that I was going to shrink my good fitting jeans. At least by not drying them, I always knew what was causing my jeans to fit a little bit tight. Chips and queso, Maxie B's lady raspberry cake, Chubby Hubby ice cream from Ben and Jerry's.

So, just like the Missy Elliot songs says, "Lost a few pounds in my waist for ya." Well, it really isn't anything at all like the Missy Elliot song, but I have lost a few pounds and my jeans kept sagging. So, I'm hoping that this little trip to the dryer will help my SJS, (saggy jean syndrome).

I feel pretty ...

Oh so pretty ...

Especially when I have a new Fuel Belt bottle with a pink holder, plus it has a fancy-dancy pocket!
I loved my old one for long runs, oh who am I kidding, I typically carry mine on any run I do. But, it didn't have a pocket and it always seemed like a waste of space when there is room to add one.

So, I can definitely pack a Gu for a long run, and even two Gu's.
I may have a hard time cramming the Gu Chomps in the pocket, unfortunately. I'm sure it can be MacGuyvered somehow.CrackBerry can't come along for a ride.But, my keys, inhaler,and chapstick all could. Did I mention it's pink ... and it was 20% off because I bought it at a ladies night event?

Thinking about ...

• That plain, old-fashioned Cheerios and milk still taste good.
• Sunday afternoon naps are perfect when it's rainy out, you're under a blanket, and there's some senseless reality TV show playing in the background.
• Even when I really don't want to go, there's nothing like a long run to lift my spirits.
• Hubby received a Tervis Tumbler for Christmas and I may have to steal it for my own. Or hint around that a larger one with lid, straw, and my monogram would make a great gift. Hint, hint.

Nineteen months

Nineteen months with twin girls is sometimes blurry, uncooperative, funny, and sweet.



But, I wouldn't have it any other way.

Alone on my little island

Am I the only one in America (and possibly beyond) that just doesn't like American Idol? I have never watched an entire season and really have no desire. Sure, I can appreciate good singers and I'll give a shout out to the many North Carolinians who have done very well on the show.

But, I just don't get the infatuation.

I will say that I do like Kristin Chenoweth, so when Hubby has it on, I'll at least turn my head to see what she's saying. After all, if you can belt it out on Broadway as Glinda the Good Witch, then you have an idea of what makes a good singer.

So, I'll just stay on my little island watching some other bad TV show.

Words

I was talking to my Mom recently about a Historical society event she attended in our hometown. For the few of you who know her, you will say, "What was Patty doing at the meeting?" Well, I will say that she's lived in this city her entire life, so she probably is interested in the history and knows some of it herself. Then she told me during the meeting, all she was thinking about were the cucumber and pimento cheese sandwiches that they were serving following the meeting. I guess my Dad would have been much better suited for attending.

She talked to two women after the meeting. One that she knows well, and the other that she knew in her childhood, but hasn't really seen in many years.

The woman (that my Mom hasn't seen in many years) said two things early in their conversation that made it awkward, but also somewhat funny after the fact. To my Mom, "Well, you're certainly all grown up." To the other woman, "I didn't recognize you with your hair!"

Both statements were just weird and inappropriate and it made me think about the power of words. We use them so quickly these days (email, Facebook, our blogs, etc) and they can often be misconstrued. We also seem to use them too quickly in person, too.

Like the person who said to me, "I was shocked to see you listed as our President-Elect." Ummm, thank you? How do you answer that, politely?

Yes, I am the official President-Elect-Elect (awful PEE acronym) for the Junior League in my city. It is a huge honor. I was thrilled to be asked, and I look forward to serving and working with our incredible members.

I try to use a rule that I learned from a PR professional when being interviewed by the Media. I think that this can be used in so many areas of our lives and not just on TV interviews. This doesn't mean that you can't still answer honestly, just think about what you say for 3 seconds before you actually say it.

Take a few seconds before you answer the question and once you answer, shut up. Most people don't like the silence and will ramble. That's when you end up sounding like a dumbass in an interview and that's what the reporter will likely use in their article or sound byte.

Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery ...

Since I write about Target nearly every week, I thought I would share another story with you.

I went through their shoe aisle the other day and noticed what from a distance looked like a pair of gold Bonnano sandals! I knew this was obviously too good to be true, but I still checked them out and took out my phone to take a picture.
They are the Merona brand and retail for $19.99.

At first, I didn't know how I felt ... it was as if they had ripped off the Bonanno sandal completely. But, I'm sure that every top designer's styles end up on all of the mass retailers shelves at some point. To me it would be worse if these were on a street corner in Palm Beach trying to be passed off as the real thing.

So, don't be surprised if you suddenly see an increase in gold "Bonnano" wearing ladies in your city this summer. And, just to set the record straight, you cannot beat the handmade, classic beauties of the real Bonnanos and I'm sure that these are nowhere near the quality of the original. My Bonnanos are by far the most comfortable sandal I own and they can literally be paired with almost anything. I'm always excited for the first warm days when I can unpack them for another season.

A break in our regularly scheduled programming ...

We had a great weekend - two surprise 40th birthday parties for two good friends. We were scheduled to attend our nephew's 16th birthday party today, but those plans came to a screeching halt around 8AM this morning.

Maddy and Libby had woken up around 7:30 and Hubby brought them downstairs for breakfast. Maddy had no interest in her food and he noticed that she was having a hard time breathing. We called our Pediatrician's office and talked to the triage nurse for a while. Instead of telling us to come to the office when it opened, she told us to go to the E.R.

WHAT???

I called a friend in our neighborhood who luckily was home to see if I could drop Libby off with her. She said yes, and we packed everyone up in record time. They went in their snowman pajamas and Widgeon fleece jackets, looking a little like Christmas elves.

Kudos to our local E.R. We had barely taken our seat in the waiting room and they brought us back. After an Oxygen check, rectal temperature check, a serious nose suctioning, a breathing treatment, and Chest Xrays, Maddy was one pooped girl. She took turns sleeping on our chests maybe drinking about 2 sips of water. It was truly pitiful.

After her labs came back, we found out that she has RSV. It is also extremely contagious, so we have been in Clorox / Lysol mode, disinfecting and taking away any toys that they typically put in their mouths, and wiping everything down with these super duper anti bacterial wipes that they gave us from the Hospital. From what they told us, it will last for about 5 days and we are hoping that Libby won't also get sick, but only time will tell. She currently has a bit of a runny nose, didn't eat much for dinner, but was still playful, and as my Mom would say, didn't have that sick look in her eyes.

Maddy took a good 3 hour nap when we got back home and has gone from eating a little and playing a little, to wanting "up" so she can snuggle. Even though the circumstances are bad, we had to enjoy the snuggle time, because Maddy normally won't sit still long enough to give you a hug, let alone snuggle with you.

So, I think it's safe to say that we are officially quarantined for a while and praying that we will have two well girls by the weekend.

I'm always the last to know.

I love music ... it can inspire me, lift me up, make me feel like dancing, remind me of a particular time in my life, or just be a pleasant background to the day. I like a lot of different music, but kind of feel like I'm out of the scene ... I don't really know the new bands out there and haven't seen much live music with the exception of during my trip to Nashville and at Music in the Park during the summer.

Several friends of mine have gone on and on about a certain band, oh probably for the past two years, but I never got around to checking them out.

Until I realized that two of their songs were ones that I knew, but didn't realize that I knew.

So, it's The Avett Brothers, from right here from NC. It's not like they are brand new - they've been out for several years, have several albums, and I should have checked them out a long time ago. Check out "Ten Thousand Words" and "I And Love And You." I'm addicted to both.

They definitely have a good, laid back vibe ... perfect for background music for dinner with friends or a quiet evening at home. I also noticed a few faster songs that were worthy of my running mix. I also think that some of the band members may have a hot/cute factor going on, so that is always a plus. It's a modern twist on bluegrass, with sometimes a touch of punk, but with kind of a coffee house vibe. You can tell the music has heart. Plus, these guys can really play and sing.

My little bean counters

The past couple of days have been those kind of days in a parent's life that are a bit trying. No one seems happy, no matter what you do. All the usual toys, books, walks, foods, hanging upside down & tickling bellies just haven't seemed to work. There's just been a lot more crying and fussing than we are used to and 7 o'clock can't seem to arrive fast enough.

In our house, we are getting over two ear infections, one additional fever, one rash from the Amoxicillan for the ear infection, and now one more fever. Oh, and how can I forget ... both daughters cutting new teeth?

I was talking to a friend of mine earlier today and she mentioned how her daughter loved to play with dried beans. I remembered that we had some in the cabinet, so I decided to get them out tonight after dinner. A bag of beans, several cups, one big bowl, and three pans made for great fun. Let's just say it was a success ... 30 minutes of hard-core bean playing was had, plus two happy girls.

Maddy was definitely into it. She would scoop up handfuls and put them in different containers, pour them out, and start again. Libby was a bit more cautious and preferred to place a few beans into a cup at a time. When it was closing in on bath and bed time, the hardest job was getting them back into a container and away from Maddy before she realized that they were all gone. I will definitely do this one again and they both only tried to eat them once. Success!Maddy was focused.

Libby was careful.

Beans, beans ...

Sweeties

Maddy and Libby's new obsession ... Sweetie Clementines.

Libby ate 1 1/2 of these at dinner last night and again at lunch today. They are super easy to peel, have no seeds, and are a great fruit to try. They had eaten regular tangerines before, but they always seemed to be a pain (for me) to make sure I had all the seeds out. With these, I can just peel them and put the segments on their plate.

They are an awesome snack - only 50 calories and so yummy.

How Susan got her groove back

So I went to my Allergy/Asthma Doctor yesterday and left with one cortisone shot in the bum, two prescriptions (Singulair and ProAir inhaler) and a hopeful feeling. My Doctor is also a runner so she understands what I'm going through.

I was diagnosed with Exercise Induced Asthma back in 2006, I believe and typically kept it under control with an inhaler. I would go for periods where I would have no symptoms and when I decided to get pregnant, I really wanted to try to be off as many prescriptions as I could live without. Singulair was an iffy one as far as Pregnancy categories go, so I went off of it.

When I started running again in January 2009, I thought I felt pretty good when running, but it was like the light turned on for me today.

I went to the gym since running in 20 degree temps can cause asthma like symptoms on people who don't have a problem ... plus, I knew it would be "safer" in case I started having issues again.

I ran over 4 miles and felt like I really could push it. I kept increasing my pace (and while that may sound fast), I promise, it really wasn't it, but it was for me. I think I ran faster than I have in a very long time and I can't tell you how good that made me feel.

So thank you modern medicine. I now sound like my husband who is constantly saying "Better Living through modern medicine", while I typically go with the hippie-dippy, use some saline spray, a neti pot, and tea with honey approach.

So, let's cross all of our fingers that I can still feel this good when I'm out in the cold, in the dark, and running up and down hills.

Happy early Valentine's Day to me, Happy early Valentine's Day to me ...

I think anyone who knows me (or reads this blog), knows that I am a frequenter of Target.

Like every other retailer, the Valentine's Day goodies have been out since Christmas, if not before.

I spotted this set of 3 prep bowls at Target and loved them. They have an entire collection of cups and plates with this alphabet pattern. The cups and plates are plastic and would be cute for a kid's party or as gifts.

Not that I really need another set of bowls, but I kept thinking about them and they found their way in my cart yesterday.

Now, what to do with them? One would definitely make a cute candy bowl, one would be good for my morning oatmeal, the smallest would make a great hand warming latte bowl.

If nothing else, they'll make me smile when I use them to prep ingredients for a meal or to scramble eggs.

Age

I don't really think much about my age until I find myself in certain situations where I just can't help it.

Case in point: My visit to Target this morning.

I was wandering the aisles trying to find the cough drops where I ended up spotting a nicely dressed young man who I would guess to be of college age. First, I was surprised to see a cute college boy in the pharmaceuticals/make-up area of Target and then to see a nicely dressed one was even more surprising.

I then realized that I had turned into the Protection and Planning aisle.

And he was looking at Protection.

I was mortified and quickly turned around to find my Ricola cough drops. I felt about 900 years old.

I later saw him pushing a big ol' cart with one small box in it. I just smiled to myself. Props to him for being responsible and maybe kudos are in order to thinking he needed a big cart for one small (yet meaningful) purchase.

Frustrated

So I ran at the gym on Tuesday morning since I wasn't quite bold enough to brave the 16 degree weather at 6am. I made it about a mile, then had to walk. My chest tightened up and I felt like I couldn't breathe. I walked for about a mile and felt somewhat better, deciding to finish up running the last mile. All the while coughing. I'm sure my gym-mates thought that Typhoid Susan was on the treadmill next to them.

I thought it might just be a fluke or part of a sinus infection that seems to keep hanging on. In retrospect, I should have gone to the Doctor this week, but things got busy. Libby ended up back at the Pediatrician, I had an out of town meeting, etc. You get the picture. Shoulda, coulda, woulda.

Today, I met one of my friends for what we had decided would be a 6-7 mile run. We purposely waited until the afternoon so it would be in the mid-30's and we set off.

We weren't probably a 1/2 mile in and I felt like I was struggling to keep up. Since we typically run at the same pace, I got a little worried. We hit the mile point, and I told her I needed to walk. We walked about 1/2 mile, then turned around because I just wasn't feeling any better. Same symptoms as Tuesday -- tightness, wheezing, coughing, etc.

As much as I hate to admit it, I think my exercise-induced asthma may be back. I haven't had to take my inhaler since 2007 and I really thought that I was over it. I know it's not my fault, but it just makes me mad that when I want to do something, I physically can't. I looked up some information online and I'm having a lot of the symptoms that are in line with asthma, so I bet coupled with the cold weather is probably why I'm having a flare up.

So, here's my promise that I'm calling my Allergist in the morning for an appointment. She's also a runner so I know she understands what I'm going through. I also want to make sure I get my miles in because I've started the 500 miles in 2010 challenge and I need to keep up!

Love

A sunbath must be the best feeling ever for dogs.

Tiny

Hubby and I started Weight Watchers online back in December. We've both done well with it, especially the Hubs. I think he dropped something like 8 pounds the first week. Let's just say that my biggest weight loss week was maybe 2 pounds. I was most impressed with my recent loss of 2 ounces, but hey, it's still a loss. I think I'm down almost 5 pounds and Hubby is down over 13 pounds. Probably the only holiday season that we haven't gained. Whoo!

We both have a sweet tooth and there's only so much yogurt or an apple will suffice.

So, Hubby brought home a box of chocolate creme cakes that are made by WW and only 1 point. On the box, they look great. Big ol piece of cake, ooey gooey filling inside. Yum.

Not bad, right?
Not bad until you start comparing it to other similarly sized items lying around your house.

Oh, look! Slightly bigger than the Little People person!

I'd call it a tie. Chapstick vs. Cake.

Sorry, Cake. 2 binder clips got you beat.

Tipping Point

Since I put off buying diapers yesterday, I knew I had to go today. Maddy and Libby had their 18 month checkup this morning and we unfortunately discovered that they both had ear infections. Double yuck, since Maddy just had one a few weeks ago. But everything else was great and surprisingly, even Maddy is back on the charts. Maddy weighed in at 21 lbs, 3 oz. and Libby was 22 lbs, 11 oz. Maddy was 30.5 inches and Libby 30 3/4 inches.

So, off to Target to pick up prescriptions and diapers.

I was unable to find one of their double shopping carts in the parking lot, so I took them in the stroller. If you've ever tried to push a double stroller and carry two boxes of diapers and a box of wipes, I can tell you that it's nearly impossible. Believe me, I've tried. Yes, I buy two kinds - Target brand for day and Pampers for night. The Target brand are much cheaper and work fine, but just not for overnight. The stroller has a great basket underneath the seats that works great for smaller items, but unfortunately, large boxes don't fit.

When I paid for the prescriptions, I asked if I could go ahead and buy the diapers and also asked if she had large bags. I hung the diapers and wipes over the handles of the stroller and headed out to the parking lot.

I pulled Maddy out of the stroller, and suddenly the stroller flipped back because of the extra weight of the wipes and diapers. Poor Libby was just looking up at me with an expression like, "What the hell just happened?" I pulled the bags off and got the stroller back to an upright position. I'm sure whoever saw me in the parking lot thought I had lost it.

So my safety warning for the day: If you think the box of wipes weighs more than your daughter, don't hang them from the back of your stroller. Unless you want the other daughter to go on a really fun ride!

Random Monday Musings

This looks incredibly wonderful. Not that I need another kitchen gadget and I especially don't need one that makes pancakes filled with something yummy inside, but don't you want one?
Thank you note writing. I do it every year, but I feel like few reciprocate with me. Is it a lost art? Do you still write thank you notes? I can honestly remember my Mom making me sit down and write them before I was allowed to wear the clothes/play with the toy/spend the money that I had received as a gift. It is a little easier when you have cute new cards like these to use. Thank you, K. and don't worry ... your card will be in the mail tomorrow!Did I show you my $1.27 sofa table? JCP may be my new favorite store. I had to return a chair slipcover because the zipper was broken. I didn't mention that Hubby tried to use pliers to close the zipper, but just the fact that it was broken. Whoops. Anyway, they ended up giving me credit for the exchange, because it was on sale. Then the ottoman slipcover had a spot, so they gave me another credit, but couldn't replace it because it was out of stock. Long story short, I was able to purchase this table for under $2 and spent our credit on it. Not bad. It has 2 storage baskets and fits in well with the rest of our furniture. Those baskets are now filled with bristle blocks and typically get pushed out of the way in 2.4 seconds upon a toddler entering the room.

More coughing ...

Has led to more early morning TV watching when I can't sleep. Today, I watched part of National Geographic's show called 'The Women of K2 and death on the mountain' or something equally scary sounding. It was actually pretty interesting ... from what I watched, there had been only 5 women who had summitted K2 and all 5 had died ... either on the mountain or in other climbing related deaths. There was a new woman who was hoping to be the first one to actually reach the summit and survive. I ended up falling asleep, so I have no idea how it all turned out. Anyone else up around 4:30 am today and know the answer?

There were also many more infomercials ... Girls Gone Wild DVD, Bare Minerals makeup, the Insanity workout DVD, P90X workout DVD, Snuggies, and a really cool shoe storage box that can fit under your bed. Also, did you know that VH1 is actually playing VIDEOS at that time of day?

I think it's a good thing I don't have my credit card number memorized or I may have been calling for the shoe storage box.

Do you think it's possible for a upper respiratory thing from Thanksgiving to have hung around until now? I really feel like I've been coughing since then and it's probably time to go back to the Doctor. All this coughing and temperatures in the 20's has led to no running this week and I'm feeling a little guilty. However, I just don't think that coughing and running when it's that cold could be a good combination.

This week ... 30's and 40's for the highs, so at least we're moving up the thermometer.

So did you ...

Eat your traditional pork, blackeyed peas, cornbread, and greens meal on New Years Day? We did, minus the greens, because I don't think I know how to fix them and no one in our house really likes them. So, what does that mean ... no extra folded money for us? Whoops.

Is this what you've always heard? Pork means progress (because pigs root forward) or for being humble, black eyed peas are for luck, greens are for extra folded money, and cornbread ... that may just be a southern thing? Is there a meaning behind it or does it just taste good?

I have also realized that if you are up at 5am on Saturday, due to a nagging cough, nearly every TV station is playing an infomercial. Today, I learned about several exercise DVD's, curling iron, juicers, panini press, weight loss concoctions, mops, Your Baby Can Read system, and probably 10 others. I think National Geographic was the only station actually playing a show, so I watched about conjoined twins and if/when they can have surgery.

Happy 2010 everyone.

Goodbye 2009, Hello 2010!

I just looked back at my posts from December of last year to see if I made any resolutions "official" by blogging about them, but no such luck. Honestly, I was probably just trying to keep my head above water with Maddy and Libby that I didn't have time to write them down. I can guess what they were - start running again, be a better wife/mother/friend, healthier eating/exercise habits, etc.

Well, I did start running again in January 2009 and have logged a little over 500 miles this year. When I think about it, that doesn't seem like a lot, but I pretty much ran consistently with the exception of the month of November. Not too shabby. I feel good with my running too. I can't say that I'm any faster, but it doesn't scare me like it used to to go run 5 miles. I also made some great friends along the way.

As far as the others are concerned, I'm sure I could put them back on the list.

I also think a lot about what I want this blog to "be." When I first started, I said "So, I hope that this blog can be a journal of some sorts so I can look back at what my life was like in my mid 30's and hopefully, I will learn something along the way." I guess that is still the true essence, but now loaded with diaper stories, and photos of my daughters.

I really do feel blessed this year. I have two happy and healthy children that I really cannot imagine this world without. They have brought more to my life than I would have ever imagined. I'm lucky to have a wonderful Hubby who loves me, has helped me immensely and in so many ways, and takes a lot of crap from me and ignores a lot of it. He truly is my biggest supporter and cheerleader. I am lucky to have friends that I can count on ~ new and old.

I've seen many friends go through a lot of pain this year and I wish for them happier days ahead. I'm sad that I'm losing my very flexible and very great part-time job. I think I'm still in shock that it's ending (today is my last day), but I guess there is also some excitement about what's to come. I am lucky to be taking on a big role with my local Junior League in the coming years. While there's excitement, I'm also a little nervous, honored, and humbled at the same time.

It wouldn't be the same if I didn't include a photo of the kids for your viewing pleasure. My best (and oldest as in length of years - not in age) friend and her family came to visit us for a few days earlier this week. It was great to catch up, but we did admit that our house felt like Romper Room on more than one occasion. I also think we've both decided that four kids is too many.

It's hard to beat a friend since the 2nd Grade. I won't say how many years that's been!

No idea what was wrong with my children. Everyone else was happy.

Happy New Year to everyone! I hope 2010 brings you health, happiness, and laughter!

A look back

I know you are always supposed to keep looking ahead, but I can't help it ... I'm a sentimental ol' sap and I love the memories that photographs bring.

I kept seeing this on Facebook, and I couldn't help but to play along.

Of course, there are a lot of memories that this didn't capture, but it gave a good overview.

For the most part in looking back at 2009, I ran a lot (or at least had photos made at the races), watched my babies grow from itty bitty babies into walking & talking toddlers, enjoyed time with the Junior League, and spent some time with Hubby and great friends.

I'll keep looking ahead, but I think it's nice to take a look back every now and then.

The big red box

On Christmas Eve, we attended our church's candlelight service, took a drive to see Christmas lights and then headed home since it was nearing 7:15 and Maddy and Libby's bedtime.

When we got home, the girls were wandering around downstairs and Hubby and I were grabbing a few items that we needed to take upstairs.

Maddy walked back to one of the guest bedrooms and I found her patting a BIG gift wrapped box. Hmmmmm .... I know I didn't put that there, but I was trying to figure out when it arrived.

I told Hubby that Maddy had sold him out and led me to a surprise that I could only assume was for me. He just stood there and laughed. After moving it from the front porch to our mud room, then wrapping it, he showed it to Maddy.

This sucker would have been hard enough to wrap, but also to hide? Nearly impossible! I had to also laugh that he did this while I was out running a couple of short errands and was probably only gone about 30-40 minutes.

Oh, and what was inside? Not a refrigerator, but a new cubby/shelf with hooks to hang in our mudroom so there is a place to hang my purse, their backpacks, diaper bag, dog leashes, etc.

Merry Christmas!

Merry Christmas to you and yours from Susan D., Hubby, Maddy, Libby, Zeus, and Zoe too.

Children's Museum visit

Guess where the cameras were? Yep, right on the kitchen counter. I could have tried taking photos with my BlackBerry, but Maddy and Libby are just too darn fast.

We bought a family membership to our local children's museum as M&L's Christmas gift. Since they still don't really know what's going on with the gift situation, we decided that this would be a good gift to enjoy all year long.

We walked in and headed to the Tot Area for kids under 2. It had a big tunnel, cars to ride, rocking chairs/animals, soft play areas, balls, books, blocks, etc. Lots of mirrors, textures, etc. It took them a few minutes to warm up and then they were off ... hopping in the car, zooming through the tunnel, picking up balls, etc. It was really fun to watch them play and also to notice how differently they play.

Case in point, Maddy walked over to the swinging doors, pushed it open and walked out into the huge hallway like she knew where she was going. I followed along and after a visit to the lobby, we found the Market area with baskets of fruits, veggies, cheeses, breads, shopping carts, cash registers, etc. I think she did more shopping out of the other kids carts instead of from the shelves, but it was all good. At one point, I think she was just happy holding onto to 3 lemons and walking around.

We caught back up with Libby and Daddy, checked out the hospital area, the campground, and the theatre/stage area, had a little snack and called it a day.

All in all, I'm so happy with our gift decision. They had a blast, expended lots of energy, and we all enjoyed it. Next time ... camera will be in the bag. We also heard about a cute New Years Eve Eve concert with a countdown to 12 noon. How fun is that?

Thinking about ...

• Those Hallmark cards that start with the line, "To our wonderful son & daughter" with "daughter" in quotes. It aggravates me every holiday that we receive one. Do they bother anyone else?
  
• The Popcorn Factory tin that I noticed at Target yesterday. It contained some kind of savory mix that included jalapeno, cheddar, and another flavor. I didn't want to pause too long or I knew that sucker would end up in my cart and I would eat the whole damn thing. I'm still thinking about it. And Mexican food. And good, warm bread. And Pioneer Woman's crash potatoes. No, I'm not pregnant, just trying to stick to Weight Watchers.
  
• Who else but me would run out of tape in the middle of the last present I was wrapping? Luckily, I found some double stick tape and finished it like the pros.
• Does anyone else keep a copy of Martha's "three perfect bows" how-to guide with your gift wrap supplies? I do, but I can never get my bows as pretty as hers. Maybe it's because my ribbon was 1/2 off at Michaels' or Target, and I'm sure Martha's is not.
• For obvious reasons, we put our packages on the mantle instead of under the tree this year, but I like it so much that it may become an annual tradition. Plus, it keeps me from trying to figure out how to decorate my mantle.

One day,

I'll have something witty to write about, but until now ... more photos of my children.

This was their first experience with chocolate chip cookies. They actually seemed to take their time and nibble them, just like my Meme would have done. Only, they also drank sippy cups of milk and Meme would have been drinking black coffee.

They are 18 months old today. Where does the time go?

The cookies never left their hot little hands the entire time.

Don't even think about it.

Yummmm.

Sweet.

Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow!

Now it definitely feels (and looks) a lot like Christmas ...

Santa! I know him!

One of our neighbors had a little gathering last weekend for about 10 families ... and Santa made an appearance. It was great watching all of the other kids (who were about 4-5 years old) when he showed up at the door.

Our two weren't so sure about sitting on his lap by themselves, but they were fine once we hung out on the sofa with the big guy.

We had to laugh how they are totally checking him out. I also laughed at how Libby is holding a measuring cup that she must have "borrowed" from the kitchen and Maddy was wearing the jewels that she "borrowed" as well.

It's so hard for me to believe that Christmas is next week. I definitely feel in the spirit this year, but it just really feels like this month is flying by. I think I now understand what my Mom always said ... that she wanted everything to slow down this time of year so we could truly take time to enjoy it.

Question ...

If you hire a cleaning person on a regular basis, do you give them a holiday "tip" or gift? If so, how much?

What other service providers do you give a holiday tip or gift? Hairstylist, babysitter, teachers, etc?

Baby Dyson

I know most of you know how much we love our Dyson. I am certain I've blogged about her on several occasions.

We received our beloved Animal Dyson as a wedding gift. It was the only one that I knew exactly what it was. Kind of hard to disguise a vacuum cleaner at a wedding reception.

The Animal came with a coupon for a free Baby Dyson. Not a real-deal vacuum, but a toy designed to look just like the real thing. So, I sent off for it in the hopes of having a child someday to enjoy it.

So it arrived and has stayed stored for the past 4 years ... until now. We got it out of the basement yesterday to put it together so we can give to Maddy and Libby as one of their Christmas gifts.


Is it not the cutest thing you've ever seen? It takes batteries, so it actually makes sound, things whirl around, and the package says that it will pick up tiny pieces of debris. Maybe we can try tandem vacuuming!

My little fashionista

Maddy, who won't leave a bow in her hair, happily found necklaces and a purse to carry around at the Santa party we attended tonight. So maybe she's destined to love accessories?

Thankful

That I have two legs that can carry me over a 3 mile run on a random and cold Thursday night.

That I can somehow find a tiny ounce of determination to make me run when I really don't want to go.

That when I show up and the rest of the girls were already stretched and ready, that they patiently waited on me (even when my clumsy self dropped a battery out of my headlamp, and seemed to take forever to get situated and ready).

That the neighborhood has fun and bright Christmas lights Clark Griswold style to make the run more entertaining.

That I can really only smell the scent of Krispy Kreme doughnuts once during the run.

Calling it done.

Since I didn't want to

A. not put up a tree
B. put the tree up in a different room
C. put a gate up around the tree
D. keep the naked chic tree

We opted to go with the 3/4 decorated tree.


Don't look too closely ... just keep your eyes at the top half and don't let them wander too far down. Oops. You did, didn't you?

Can you tell how high Maddy and Libby can reach? Yep, you guessed it. Right about there.


Now if they figure out that they can drag their rocking chair over to the tree and stand on it, then we're all in big trouble.


And, just for you AL, the Pottery Barn wanna be slipcovered sofa ala Jacque Penne. So far, so good. We feel like it needs to be "broken in" a little ... you don't sink right in like I think you will after another month or so. All in all, I've been pleased. I did have to return the slipcover to the chair because the zipper broke when we were putting it on. Those suckers are tight. Let me know if you want to come test it out. Just wish it came in the color of Black Lab.

My helpful Heloise moment

I've been baking today. I know ... it's often scary, but usually I do OK as long as I have recipes.

I made cheese straws and lemon snap cookies, along with a meatloaf for dinner. Actually, only the cheese straws are out of the oven. The dough for the lemon cookies is in the fridge, and the meatloaf will go in the oven to bake. I'll bake the cookies tonight and cross my fingers. Waiting on the cheese straws to cool, but they smell yummy. They don't look store bought, but I guess they really shouldn't.

Anyway, I was trying to scrape the dough off my mixer blade and I never have a small rubber spatula. Guess what came in handy? Those little rubber tipped baby spoons. Perfect. Even if you don't have kids, buy a pack and keep them in your drawer.

So, there you go my friends. Aren't you glad you stopped by for that piece of entertainment today?

Deep Thoughts: sad, sentimental, and just my crazy mind

I can't help thinking about ...

A friend who lost her Mom yesterday. It just doesn't seem right that someone would have to lose her Mom so soon. We're both in our mid-30's and it just seems too early. From what I know about her, this woman was full of life, a two-time breast cancer survivor, and an all around wonderful person.

Libby, who loved reading her Kitty Cat book so much last night, that after reading it two times, decided she wanted to take it to bed. I guess there are worse things to put in a toddler's crib. I enjoyed peeking in on her this morning to see her sitting there, flipping the pages, and quietly playing with her blankie.

Is it bad that I have placed our Christmas Nativity scene on the same piece of furniture where we keep our wine rack? Something just doesn't feel right about that, but I guess you do drink wine at Communion. Or the representative Grape Juice.

O' Christmas Tree

Maybe we'll just leave it like this.

A few strands of lights at the top and undecorated.

Kind of nature-chic, don't you think? Please excuse the assorted chairs and ladder ... they aren't part of the decor this year. Or maybe we'll keep them up to deter two toddlers from playing in the tree.

We are lucky that we have a good friend, Ben whose family has a Christmas tree farm in the NC mountains. Ben is OCD about picking out trees, so we let him pick out our tree and he hand delivers it over Thanksgiving weekend. "This was alive at 11am", he always tells us.

This has to be the densest tree that we've ever had, because Hubby started putting up lights on Sunday and you can't even tell that they are on there. So, our plan is to start over and make sure we have more on the outer branches. It just hasn't happened yet this week.

Hopefully tonight and I can post a photo of a lit tree. Now, decorating may be another story. I like to pull out all of the ornaments so I can see what I have and decide what to put where. I know that ain't happening during awake toddler hours.

** Edited at 11:00 PM. We had 4 bad strands of lights. No idea what happened since last year & these are supposed to be the kind that if one light goes out, the rest will stay. So, tomorrow, I'm planning to buy about 5 more strands so we can hopefully finish the lights tomorrow. Whoopee!

Hello, old friend

Well, I said I was going to do it & I did it.

I ran today. A total of 3.63 miles. In 30-something degree weather. At 6AM. I was proud of myself for a) getting out there period, and b) getting out there in the cold, and c) running the entire time. But, I was so slooooow. An average of a 12 minute mile and I started out with the "fast girls." Hmmph.

Oh well. And I even wore a fancy dancy head lamp that Hubby bought me so I could see in the dark. And some tights which are a new thing for me. I actually got capri tights which were fine even though I thought I might be cold. Apparently, if you're 5'3", a lot of running tights are really long.

I also started weight watchers online yesterday and was so hungry that I contemplated licking the leftover ketchup off my plate. Sigh. I think the first day is always the hardest. Hubby actually found a great recipe for honey mustard pork chops that we had for dinner. Unfortunately, the roasted garlic mashed potatoes recipe went awry. We laughed that they were a little like school glue, but I ate 'em anyway.

I just felt like I had to do something ... I was still eating like I'm still nursing two babies and unfortunately, the calories just don't disappear like they used to.