Christmas x 3

We actually had 3 rounds of Christmas this year. With both of our families here in town, we get to make the rounds and see everyone.

We started the day at home. Wade and I rushed downstairs to open stockings from each other before Tate woke up. Then we had fun opening a few gifts that we had bought for Tate. That was the extent of our gift-giving. Instead of giving gifts to each other this year, we decided to buy one big item.

As a true "30-something" Christmas, our gift to each other this year was interesting...a vacuum cleaner! I'm not sure I would've been as accepting of that idea several years ago, but as we celebrated our 11th Christmas together (wow, we're getting old!), I was actually pretty open-minded. We bought the Dyson Animal vacuum cleaner. With a long-haired dog and very light-colored carpet, we needed something serious to keep it clean. So, I came to terms with the idea of receiving an appliance for Christmas and am actually excited to start using it.

From there, we had two more rounds with both sets of families. The Enright Christmas this year definitely had a theme...a California Christmas.

For those that don't know, my dad, aunt, uncle, grandmother, grandfather, and great uncle (there might even be more that I'm forgetting) all graduated from the University of California at Berkeley. So between all of the presents from my aunt and dad, Tate is now well-accessorized with CAL paraphernalia...2 bibs, 1 T-shirt, 4 onesies, 1 football, 1 basketball, and 1 soccer ball. Tate says thank you! :)

Wade and I realized, we need to stock up and balance it with some ACU gear.

Here's Tate sporting his CAL football.


While at Wade's parent's house, I came across the family picture below from 1975. Wade is 2 months old in the picture. We now finally know who Tate looks like! I was shocked how similar they look.

Having Tate with us made this a Christmas we'll never forget . Yet again, a time to be thankful for the many blessings we've received this year.

Still Here!

Yes, I'm still here. Motherhood has (as it should) turned my world upside down. Wade has been back at work, so I've been on my own.

Who knew that getting a shower could be such an accomplishment for the day? Needless to say, my priorities have been sleep, food, and/or a shower whenever I've had a free minute. As much as I love blogging, I haven't quite had the time or brain capacity the last week.

I'm saving up all kinds of interesting thoughts, stories, and observations on life with the little one. As hard as it is, it's all worth it! More to come...

1st Outing....Unsuccesfull

I haven't really known what to blog about next. The last few days have pretty much been a cycle of sleep, eat, change. At least for Tate that is. I, on the other hand, haven't had much of the sleeping or changing.

So tonight Wade and I thought we'd be real adventurous and get out of the house for dinner. I had just fed Tate. His diaper was changed. My hair was washed and blow-dried (quite an accomplishment). So we packed up the diaper bag and headed out.

Our dreams started big. Let's go to Cotton Patch. Then the realization that if we go to a restaurant, the timing might not work well.

OK, how about Chick-Fil-A? Most babies fall asleep in the car, right? Very quickly into the trip...as in the second he was buckled into the seat...the crying began. So, maybe we'll just go get the food from the drive-thru.

We live a good 10-15 minutes from Chick-Fil-A, so surely he'll fall asleep? Not our little guy. The crying continued and progressively got louder, louder, and louder until I was crying with him. You would've thought we were driving him to the dentist for a root canal.

Yet again, our plans changed. As we approached our breaking point, Wade spotted a Subway off the side of the road. Quick, pull over! Wade ran in, got our food, and turned the car around to head back home.

So our big adventure out resulted in Subway sandwiches back at the house while Tate had a nice evening nap.

Our senses of humor are still in tact, because we were really able to laugh it all off and know this is just one of many, many stories to come.

Back to Blogging...as a Mom!

So a week ago right now, the fun had begun! I really can't believe that an entire week has gone by already. It has been a whirlwind. Lots of people had told me that it would be, but I don't think there's any way to fully understand.

Tate was born at 8:10 p.m. on Tuesday, so it was a long 13+ hours of labor. I wasn't expecting that. Finally though around 5:00 or 6:00 p.m., things started to really progress and before I knew it, it was 7:30 p.m. and time to do the hard work. I was pretty surprised (and glad) at how fast that part went.

That moment that the doctor placed him in my arms really is an experience I can't even describe. I hope I can keep that memory clear and close forever. It made the aches and pains of pregnancy and the long day of labor all worth it!

Here's our first family picture. (**Disclaimer, this is after Wade and I had recovered from our blubbering crying. In fact, I had to pull out the make-up bag real quick to fix the face. I know that's high-maintenance, but I had gone into the "ugly cry.")

The next day and a half in the hospital went so fast. I quickly realized that when you deliver a baby later in the evening, you lose out of some hospital time. It was 1:00 a.m. by the time he was cleaned up, I was taken care of, and we were settled and moved into the new room. So, the next day was a little chaotic getting all of the checks, screenings, pictures, etc. Before I knew it, we were headed home. (Lesson learned: if you can arrange to have your baby earlier in the day, you'll get a lot more down time in the hospital.)

So here we are, home for the last 4 days. I pretty much just laugh (got to keep the sense of humor) every time I look at the clock. I feel like I'm in some type of time machine where the hours are being secretly sucked away. I have no idea where the days have gone. We've had wonderful family and friends providing lost of meals, groceries, and help. In fact, thanks to my Mom, there have been more home-cooked meals made in our kitchen this week than probably the past few months. Maybe having a baby will inspire me to learn to cook!?

Despite the long nights, total exhaustion, crazy aches and pains, this has been such an incredible experience. I am in complete awe and gratitude for this little blessing which God has entrusted us. I can't wait to learn more and more about this little guy.

Thank you for all of your prayers, well wishes, and encouragement. This has been such a good reminder of all of the wonderful family and friends we have around us. Wade, myself, and Tate thank you!

Sweet Baby Tate

Baby Tate Update on Wade's blog!

Here We Go...

It's 10:00 p.m. the night before I have a baby. Crazy! I'm actually feeling a little nauseous right now. Not from early labor, but because we're about to have a baby!!! All kinds of emotions at once...excitement, anticipation, fear, happiness, worry, and everything else in between.

More than anything, I am so excited to meet my son. It's weird even typing that. I've asked for and prayed for this little person even before I knew he had life or that he was a he. I'm so thankful for the healthy pregnancy I've had and continue to ask that God provide a healthy baby tomorrow.

Today was a good day of getting all of the last minute things done, and we wrapped up the night with dinner with my parents at La Madeleine. That's also the same place I told Wade that I was pregnant.

Here are some pictures of the nursery. There are still a few more things to add and finish, but it is definitely ready and waiting for its new occupant. We went somewhat gender neutral with slate blue, chocolate brown, and khaki colors. My attempt to "boy" it up a little is the collection of old vintage racing posters. I hope this doesn't give him any ideas of driving, skiing, or cycling too fast. :)

By the way, I'd love any advice on tying a decent knot. I can't make those crib bumper pads tie on and look half way decent.

I kept hearing over and over how many diapers you go through and how expensive they are, so months ago, we slowly started the collection. Those $1.50 Pampers coupons help as well!

This one is probably the most embarassing. The kid's got a full closet of clothes already. This is thanks to the incredible generosity of family and friends, and my off-season clearance finds. For all of my friends out there with boys on the way, I'll be sure to share the love and clothes.

And this last one is at dinner tonight. One last picture of the family of 2. It will soon be 3.

Goodnight Baby Tate. We can't wait until tomorrow when we get to hold you!

Our 3-year-old

Although our newborn will soon come home with us, we also have a 3-year-old. Maybe at times she's been treated like a child, but she's actually our golden retriever, Macy. I think she and Tate will be best buds, because Macy is great with kids. But, I do think she's going to have some jealousy issues.

Wade & I both have been quite surprised (and amused) by ourselves over the past 3 years. We've slowly turned into "crazy dog people." I never thought I'd be like this. But, I really do love this dog. She has such a unique personality and is such a great dog.

I guess this is my ode to Macy. Obviously little Tate will soon take some precedent in our family, but Macy will still stay our special dog.

Here's Macy at 10 weeks old...what a cutie!

And here she is this weekend on her annual trip to see the PetsMart Santa. She really was as petrified as she looks.

Tate on Tuesday?

It looks like Tuesday will be the big day! I've progressed some and Tate is getting bigger, so we've scheduled an induction for Tuesday. Works for me. It's actually the day before his due date, and the date I originally predicted that he'd be born!

I guess it could still happen before then, but now I've got that date in my head as the day. So, 4 more days to go. 4 days filled of ice cream, a pedicure, lots of rest, movies, and final touches on the nursery.

More Buddha Belly pics

This may the last pregnant picture I allow for public viewing. Each day, I wonder how it's possible for my stomach to grow any bigger?? Seriously, how big is this kid going to be? This was a few days ago at 38 1/2 weeks.

Here's Wade at 38 1/2 weeks. His complaint these days is swollen ankles. He's not getting much sympathy from me. :)

Tick Tock Tick Tock

Now the real waiting game begins. I'm officially on maternity leave until February 20. So now, I get to get lots of rest (which I need) and wait.

It's funny to me how anytime I call someone, they answer the phone with that sheepish "Helloooo???" So I now start every conversation, with "I'm not in labor."

I'm very curious about what my dr. says tomorrow at my final weekly visit. The waiting game continues.

A weekend of contractions, turkey, hospitals, and memories

**Note that this is a long post, sorry, but I'm running out of time and want to be sure to capture this last week.

Thanksgiving weekend was eventful. Tate's not here, yet, but I did have to make a quick trip to the hospital on Thanksgiving morning.

For about 2 hours on Wednesday evening, I had pretty strong and painful contractions. Halfway through dinner they stopped, but I didn't feel him move after that at all. In fact, by 7:00 a.m. on Thursday, I was a wreck with worry. After trying all of the usual tricks that will get him to move, nothing was working. So we called, and the L&D staff said to come on in. Of course as soon as I'm hooked up to the monitor, he moves around and his heart rate sounds great.

I was relieved that he was OK, but then embarrassed of my rookie-mom worrying. But, thank goodness for nurse Lynn. She was incredible. I was dreading that I would have some nurse that was bitter she was working on Thanksgiving and would stop short at laughing at me for going to the hospital. But Lynn was so sweet, even through my crying that I couldn't stop (these hormones have seriously got to slow down!). So with discharge papers in hand and a baby that started moving around again, I started my Thanksgiving being very thankful for a very sweet nurse.

The next few days were a combination of several Thanksgiving dinners with family, cleaning and nesting around the house, and lots of resting and sleep. Here is the Strzinek family picture on Thanksgiving, followed by the star of the Enright Thanksgiving, my niece, Mallory:

The turkey headdress is compliments of Aunt Kelly. :)

One of the highlights of the weekend was definitely our quick getaway. We ventured out to downtown Fort Worth for our babymoon. All of the pregnancy books suggest having a weekend away at 6-7 months. We didn't quite plan ahead enough for that, but figured we'd still get away for a night even with just over a week to go. So we headed to a very cool, old, renovated hotel in downtown. The "Christmas Parade of Lights" even went right by the hotel, so we got to watch from the room for a little bit.

At dinner, we reminisced about our 7 1/2 years of marriage pre-baby. I think it's so important to be able to reflect back on the good, the bad, and the ugly of your relationship. We've all had them all. It makes you realize how far you've come in your marriage and that it does take work.

We laughed at some of our newlywed moments, both being thankful for how much we've relaxed...and matured. We remembered back to the vacations, the first one-bedroom apartment, the funny stories, the sicknesses, the fights (which are a little funnier now), the sad stories, and all of the in between that have formed us into "Kelly & Wade."

It sounds so sappy and cheesy I know. But since we're about to start this new chapter of our family and our relationship, it's such a good reminder to see how much better we got at just being married. I'm sure it will be the same for parenthood as well. It will probably take some time (and funny stories to share along the way) for us to get the hang of it. Good thing we can laugh at ourselves. But, it's all part of it. One day soon, we'll have a new set of remember-when memories with our little baby boy.

How Do You Feel?

I think I've heard the question, "How do you feel?" more in the last month than probably all 30 years of my life. My response has been pretty much the same throughout most of the pregnancy...great!

It was a little rough the first 3 months, but come week 14, the switch flipped. I felt great. I have been fortunate to really have had a good pregnancy. No major problems, and I've even been able to sleep really well.

As of week 38, I guess the switch flipped back. I'm feeling very big and very pregnant. No complaining, because I'm realizing this is all bound to happen. This baby does need to come out at some point in time, right? Well, I guess things are slowly starting.

I went for another weekly visit to the doctor yesterday, and I've made a little more progress. Lots of contractions lately, and I'm feeling much more run down and tired. The good news is that I can still sleep at night. So, I'm doing lots of that these last few days.

So crazy that he could come any day now. Every time I see a little blonde boy, I wonder if that's what Tate will look like one day. I can't wait to meet him and know that everything that still has to happen to get him here will be well worth it!

Nesting?

I'm not sure if I've been nesting or not? Most people describe it as a burst of energy. I haven't had that, but over the last few days, I've still gotten a ton done.

Over the weekend, I finally made the big step of cutting the tags off and washing Tate's newborn-sized clothes. I'm not really sure what was keeping me from it, but the nursery finally has that Dreft smell. Everyone looks at the newborn clothes and says "how cute and small"...I still look at them and say, "how cute, but how is there a person that big inside me???"

So tonight's task is finally packing the hospital bag and creating the who to call list for Wade. As a habitual over-packer, I'm trying really hard to just bring what I need. But how in the world do you anticipate what you need after giving birth to your first child? I'm guessing there may be some trips back to the house for Wade to get that one thing I forgot.

2 week countdown

The 2-week-countdown has begun. Such a strange thing. I'm disappointed with myself for not keeping up with blogging more and documenting these last few months of the pregnancy better. So, I'm trying to stay at it these next 2 weeks for sure.

I've always been the type of person that is very aware of timeframes. When on vacation, I know the exact point that the last half of the trip begins. I do that not to be a pessimist, but to make sure that I relish and savor it all.

I've felt that same way this past week. Don't get me wrong, because I can't wait for Tate to get here. But, I also want to soak in these last few days of "life before baby." From sleep to ice cream to movies. Guilty pleasures to enjoy freely for a little longer. :)

Hollywood Couple News

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I'm sure you all heard the news about Brittany and K-Fed's divorce. Wasn't too surprising. But, did you hear a couple of weeks ago about Reese and Ryan's split?

I have to say, I was really surprised and actually a little sad when I heard the news. I've always loved her movies and thought they were such a cute family. Plus, she turned 30 this year and they've been married 7 years. Wow, it's like she and I are the same person...ha-ha!

But I do have to say that whenever she did interviews and talked about marriage, I was pretty impressed. She seemed to discuss the topic with a little more reality than most celebrities. She said it's something they have to work at, that they've been in counseling, and that the relationship changes over time. That could sound like many marriages of us non-celebrities. Wish it would've worked out.

30 days and counting

I'm officially in a constant state of being weirded out. It's so bizarre to think that in less than a month, I'll be a parent. It's not a bad feeling by any means. I've wanted this for years and can't wait to meet this little guy. It's just weird to think how different our lives will soon be.

I've felt like the last month or two have been on fast forward, and I need the pause button just to catch my breath. There just seems to be so many things to still do. I know that I'll never feel 100% ready, but I need at least enough time to finish the nursery. And it just dawned on me this weekend, I should probably do some Christmas shopping...like now! Something tells me I won't be quite up for that mid-December??

Wade has been a good help. We figured the best strategy to help me stay sane is to make a list...a very therapeutic process. :) Now I just need to start crossing some things off the list.

The other strange phenomenon is that I'm beginning to get a little sad at the thought of not being pregnant. I've heard people say this but never understood it.

I've been very fortunate to have had a really good pregnancy so far and have felt pretty decent for the majority of it. It's the coolest thing ever to feel him moving around so much and to see my stomach lunge from side to side. I really think I'll miss that.

I head to the doctor this morning for what is starting my weekly visits. And so begins the 30-day countdown!

Here's Some Reality...

I took this right off another blog, but had to share becuase it sends such a strong message.

Tate predictions

Leave it to my creative-web-loving-husband to find a website where family and friends can make predictions on when your baby will be born and how big he'll be! I guess his competitive juices are flowing, because he's even offered a prize to whoever has the closest prediction...a gift certificate to Barnes & Noble.

So join the fun and make your own prediction for Tate's arrival. I just ask that the guesses aren't too much earlier than the due date. I still have a nursery to finish. :)

Click here and enter in the top left corner the game name: LittleManTate

Preggo!

Several have asked, so I thought I'd share my buddha belly for the entire world wide web to see. It's hard to believe that I will keep growing for the next 6 weeks...I might pop!

The Joy of Mail

I might really be going out on a limb here and exposing a strange quirk I have (one of many). Oh well, here goes...

I love getting the mail.

Is that strange? I love getting home from work and getting a fresh pile of mail to sort through. It's somewhat disappointing when it's all junk mail that is thrown away. Some of my most favorite mail items:

* Newsweek (complete geekiness here)
* the monthly checking account statement (great feeling of accomplishment to balance out the account)
* any version of a greeting card, letter, or note (it's fun even when Macy gets a birthday card from the vet!)
* the Pottery Barn catalog
* a charity direct mail piece with personalized address labels

I know that people complain every time the price of a postage stamp goes up, but you have to admit, it's still a pretty good deal to be able to send a piece of mail across the country for only 39 cents!

Ahhhh, the simple pleasures in life!

Don't Quack at Me

I think I've started waddling! I swore up and down that I wouldn't do it, but it's feeling a little unavoidable. It usually happens when getting out of bed or getting up after sitting in a meeting at work for a long time.

What a strange thing? In the just the last week or so, I feel like my stomach has become HUGE, so I guess this was bound to happen. I just hope my body doesn't get used to it, and I can walk like my normal self again afterwards.

In the meantime, no quacking sounds please! :)

Am I ready for this?

8 weeks...60 days...yikes!

Pure Genius

I'm a fan of the entire 100 Calorie snack line, but have quickly come to LOVE the 100 Calorie Cheetos. Oh my goodness are these good! It's the perfect portion size and is exactly what you need when craving that crunchy, cheesy snack. The objective side of me knows what an overpriced scam this is. The subjective side of me doesn't care, because it's awfully helpful to have the right size packaged without being tempted to overindulge. Yum!

Whoever came up with the idea for 100 calorie product line is pure genius...thanks!

Is That My Nose?

Technology is crazy! We had a 3D sonogram and got a little glimpse of Tate. Looks like he's about 3 pounds right now, so I'm sure his look will change as he doubles his weight in the next 9 weeks. So far everything seems to be progressing on track, despite that he's measuring pretty big...yikes!

The neatest part was watching him open and close his eyes and mouth and move his hand around. As excited as I am for him to be here, I also think to myself how safe and sound he is right now.

Of course I'm biased, but I think he's cute already!

Tate

It's official. He has a name. Tate. Actually, his full name will be Robert Tate, but we'll call him Tate. Wade is Robert Wade, and his father's first name is Robert as well. So the Robert tradition will continue.

I actually came up with Tate about a month or so ago. We were looking for something short, strong, and easy to spell. Poor kid, with the spelling of our last name and a middle name for a first name, we wanted to make it as easy for him as possible.

So, I saw an article with Jodie Foster and it mentioned the movie Little Man Tate. Ever since then, that has seemed to be the frontrunner in the name selection.

Some interesting info. on the name Tate:

* Depending on which name definition you use, it could be Old English, Irish, or Native American
* It means many things including: to be cheerful, a measure of land, windy, he who talks too much (hopefully this won't be too much of a self-fulfilling prophecy)
* In 2005, it ranked #378 in baby name popularity
* London's national gallery of international modern art is called the Tate Modern
* Tate Donovan is the actor that played Joshua on Friends

We're pretty excited. It's fun to be able to start calling him by name. And the nickname Tatar Tot has already started. I think that's actually pretty cute. We'll see if he still thinks so after a few years.

So to our own little man Tate, we can't wait to meet you and love you so much already!

John Madden & Pumpkins

The other day an NFL game was on TV. I realized that I have very warm and fuzzy feelings towards John Madden. Not the guy, but his voice. Don't know much about the guy at all, or if he's even a decent NFL commentator. But, I do know that his voice reminds me of football season, cooler weather, sweaters, pumpkins, and Thanksgiving. I bet he didn't know he could have that kind of effect on someone.

Today is the first day of my favorite time of the year. It is also the time of year that I wonder why I live in Texas. That's another post in itself. But, I'll pretend that we're actually going to experience a seasonal change. After all, going from 100 degrees to 80 degrees should count for something.

I am so ready for fall to be here. Or at least the very weak version of fall that us Texans call the fall. I love that feeling when the days are a little shorter and temperatures drop, all of the fall decorations are out, your feet get really cold when you wear your flip flops (remember I'm talking about TX), and La Madeleine has pumpkin pie as a featured dessert!

The kick-off is when the vendors start appearing on street corners with potted mums, pumpkins, and gourds for sale. I'm telling you, it makes me a little giddy. I will restrain a little longer this year, though. I think I bought the first potted mum from this one place last year on the first day he opened. Within a week the "woops-summer-is-back-temporarily" 95 degree day fried them all. I was very sad.

I'll start today by changing out and putting up my fall wreath on the front door! Ahhh, the simple pleasures in life. Now, let's get rid of the crazy heat and make room for some pumpkins!

Today's Thoughts

September 19. For me, this is a day that will always stick in my memory. It was the due date of our first baby. So that means that he or she would’ve been turning 1 this month. Sadly though, I lost the baby from a miscarriage at 10 weeks.

Max Lucado wrote something in a book that really clicked with me. The context was about dealing with grief and loss. He told a story of a family grieving from a miscarriage and said, “It wasn’t just the loss of a baby, but the loss of a dream.”

I think it really is the loss of the dream that makes it such a tough thing to go through. The second you find out you’re pregnant, you begin dreaming of what your new family will be like. I had 6 full weeks to begin dreaming, and then it came to a surprising and devastating end very quickly.

Before my miscarriage, I really didn’t know much about it or know many people who had gone through it. Then when it happened to us, people were coming from everywhere sharing their own experience or the experience of people they knew.

I kept thinking, why haven’t I heard you talk about this before? Don’t get me wrong, I know what a Debbie Downer it can be to bring this up at a dinner party. My explanation is that most people just don’t know what to say when it comes to this topic.

Or, there would be people who would say things to be supportive, but it didn’t always come across the right way. I know most of the comments were all said out of love and kindness, but things like, “It was meant to be” and “It God’s way of taking a baby that wasn’t quite right,” didn’t really make me feel any better.

I never expected friends or family to have the perfect thing to say or to say something that would make all the pain go away. But, I quickly realized that all I wanted from those around me was to know that they cared and would lift both Wade & me up in prayer.

I guess I share all of this for several reasons. If you or someone you know has gone through this, hopefully my little soapbox today can shed a little light into what they’re experiencing or to validate what you’re experiencing.

What’s also hard to remember is that the pain doesn’t go away a few weeks after the miscarriage. It stays with you for awhile. Right now, I’m celebrating the upcoming arrival of what looks to be a very healthy, growing baby. Although I’m over the moon with excitement and am extremely thankful for this baby, it doesn’t erase or even minimize the loss of our first.

I’ve said this blog is supposed to reflect my ponderings, so I might as well share what’s been on my mind and heart today.

Holy Toledo...I'm tired!

Not sure if that's how you spell toledo or not? Anyway...I am officially exhausted. What a day...pregnant or not.

First let me say that garage salers are a dedicated, committed bunch. We had our neighborhood garage sale today. People were showing up right at 6:00 a.m. with flashlights! It was hilarious. I should be thankful for those early birds, because we were able to get rid of the big stuff and box up the rest of the little things and clothes to take to Goodwill all by 10:00 a.m. Mission accomplished!

After a quick nap, it was off to register for the bambino. I always laughed when people said it would take hours. Who was laughing today...Babies 'R Us is a crazy, crazy place. Thanks to all of the great suggestions, I felt like we could move fast. It still took forever. Registering at Target a few hours later was a little quicker...thank goodness!

Registering is such a strange thing to me. I know it's helpful to guide some of the gift-giving and make sure you get what you need. But, I started to feel really guilty by the end of it. There's so much, and it's not cheap.

But, this was one more step to making the whole idea of a baby seem very, very real. In fact, it's officially the 3rd trimester...here we go!

From childbirth to JT

Some catching up...

Thanks so much to everyone for the suggestions on what to register for. The big event will be this weekend. We have lots of good suggestions and will let you know how it goes. :)
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So last weekend was an adventure. Childbirthing class. Yes, 2 fun-filled days of everything you wanted to know about birthing a baby. Wade deserves a little sympathy. Although after those very real videos, I'm feeling like I'll need some sympathy very soon.

The funny part was that my scared-too-death-emotional explosion was before the class even started. I made the mistake of watching a lovely Discovery Channel show, "Conception to Birth," which shows the complete development of a baby. I've seen plenty of these shows in the past. But for some reason, watching the 9th month and the delivery part had a different feel to it this time. Wade walked in, saw me crying, and said "Ahhhh, are you crying because the baby was born?"

Not quite. I'm crying because I'm scared too death of delivering my own baby!

I'm sure it was a combination of hormones (what isn't these days), watching the show, and knowing we were about to head to Childbirthing class. Whatever the combo was, it freaked me out.

But going to the class actually helped. I was really nervous walking into the classroom. But, it was a pretty good experience. Very real, but also very reassuring that millions of women all over the world do this all of the time. And, there's the epidural...woo-hoo! I'm sure Wade will have a little more entertaining perspective of our two days on his blog soon.

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I'm bet you were all eagerly awaiting today as much as I have been. Yes, today was the release of Justin Timberlake's new CD. For those that know me well, you know of my little, innocent crush on JT. Even Wade calls him my boyfriend.

Well I have to say, after years of devotion, JT disappointed me. It started after I got the CD home and realized there was a "Parental Advisory" label on the CD. Yikes! I don't think I've ever purchased music with that on it. Then to make it worse, the music wasn't that great either.

Why Justin? Why have you left your sweet, innocent, former Mouseketeer, 'N Sync days? I'm thinking I may finally be out of his target market. Although at both of the 'N Sync concerts I went to (yes, I'm admitting it!), there were plenty of mature women my age there. What happened???

Calling All Parental Units

All moms and dads out there...we need your help. Wade & I will be registering very soon at good 'ol faithful Target & Babies 'R Us. For those that have gone through the process, you know how overwhelming it can be. I've been so confused what to register for and what brands to pick, I even resorted to spending $15 for a Consumer Reports report on their picks for baby items. Is that geeky?

Getting to the point, I'd love to hear from you parents out there. Which baby items can you not live without? Which items were just not really useful? I welcome all input on what you were happy with or what you would've done differently on your registry.

Thanks in advance for helping out a couple of newbie parents!

Labor Day laboring

Hmmmmm...what to blog about on this overcast holiday weekend?

We've spent the weekend cleaning out rooms, closets, boxes, etc. Some random questions that have come to mind:

• How is it possible two people and one dog have accumulated so much stuff?
• Why can I not finish one area? I keep getting distracted and go from one room to the next.
• If we ever move from this house, how much will it cost to hire movers?
• Why was it that I decided to get off-white carpet? Why didn't we just extend the concrete floors throughout the ENTIRE house?
• Will my photo albums ever be updated and current?
• Did I really think that outfit looked good?
• What perfect timing that our neighborhood is doing a big Neighborhood Garage Sale in a few weeks.
• The Container Store is a drug that Wade and I are way too addicted to. Do those overpriced boxes really help anyway?
• Wow, how many magazines do I subscribe to? Seriously!
• Why am I blogging right now...there are rooms to clean, and I'm tired!

If you have have any of the answers to these questions, please share your secrets.

2 things...1 cool, 1 not-so-cool

The cool one:

I stole this from another blog. This is a word cloud. It's free and analyzes your blog. Then, it makes a visual of the most common words you use in your blog. The size of the word means that word has been used more often. Should I be concerned that objectionable and love are the same size?

Here's the website to make your own. It's easy.

http://snapshirts.com/custom.php

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The not-so-cool one:

Fall fashion. Several of my blog friends have written about this already, but it's really getting to me now. I was at Northpark Mall last week, and every store window I looked into appeared to have taken a step back into time...to the 80s! I can't believe that I'm finally old enough to actually remember wearing trends that are re-appearing.

I just can't believe people are serious about this. Leggings...again? The bubble skirt? Skinny jeans? Wide belts? I beg the fashionistas out there picking trends, just don't bring back tight-rolled pants!

What were your favorite trends of the 80s...you know, the one outfit that you just knew you looked so cool in? :) Mine was anytime I could layer my colored socks with my colored Keds. I thought I was pretty hot stuff!

You Say It's Your Birthday!

31 years ago today, Robert Wade Strzinek (a.k.a. Strz, Wader, Spaz, Wadely, George, etc.) was brought into this world. Many of you would probably agree that the world was never the same...for the better, of course!

As a birthday tribute, here are 31 reasons to celebrate Wade (in no particular order):

1. He gives 110% to whatever he commits to.

2. His music taste is pretty eclectic and ranges from the Beatles to U2 to Wayne Newton (yep, Wayne Newton).

3. He is one of the most honest people I know. In fact, I've never caught him in a lie.

4. He is a great VBS emcee...the kids love him.

5. He can laugh at himself.

6. He is romantic.

7. He is well read. I really have no idea how he makes it through so many books so fast.

8. He knows no stranger and can make friends immediately.

9. He is a history buff and really knows what he's talking about.

10. He can communicate to all ages...from the 5-year-olds in a Sunday School class to grandparents.

11. He appreciates and desires family time.

12. He is a wonderful, fun uncle.

13. He knows how to play the drums.

14. He takes his job seriously and does a great job at it.

15. He doesn't act like he's 31.

16. He speaks French.

17. He teaches me that it’s OK to take risks.

18. He always dresses nice and is put together.

19. He rode his bike 150 miles in 2 days for charity.

20. He’s funny.

21. He does dishes.

22. He will be so embarrassed by this, but, he is a good kisser!

23. He’s a creative and entertaining blogger.

24. He can laugh with me for hours after watching an episode of “The Office.”

25. I have full confidence that he’ll be a great dad.

26. He loves my family and fits in perfectly with our quirkiness.

27. He’s a great dog dad. Macy looks around the house for him when he’s gone.

28. He’s been very supportive and understanding throughout the entire pregnancy.

29. He does great yard work.

30. He is trustworthy.

31. His faith is genuine, real, and his own.

Sounds like a pretty good guy to me. Happy Birthday Wade…love you!

Here's a Weird One

Lately peanut butter and jelly sandwiches have sounded and tasted so good to me. But not your normal PB&J. I've been eating them with plain Baked Lays inside the sandwich. Yummy....crunchy, salty, sweet, and soft all in one!!! Is this weird or what?

Waterworks

The waterworks have been flowing lately.

Last week Wade and I ate a nice dinner at home. All of a sudden, instant tears, as I thought to myself that very soon things will never be the same. I'm still over the moon that we're going to have a baby, but I was also really sad that the past 7 years we've had just the 2 of us are over and will be different.

So then I'm at my sister's house and the tears start coming down when I hear a song in a TV commercial from the movie "She's Having a Baby."

The worst (and most embarassing) was Friday on my way home from traveling for work for 5 straight days. I was tired, hot, and wanted to be home. Troubles at the rental car company made me 2 minutes too late to be able to get on my flight home. Instant tears...serious tears...that I couldn't stop. I'm sure the airline attendant was confused, since the next flight was just an hour later. But it was too late, the tears were flowing.

It's all a little embarasing, and I don't seem to be able to stop the tears once they start. I hate to pull the pregnancy card, but these hormones are taking over.

Let's hope this isn't a permanent side effect!

Airport Observations

Some airport observations from my morning @ DFW Airport today:

Security wasn't actually that bad. I went almost 45 minutes before I normally would've arrived. But, I flew through security and had no problems. I had to check my bag and put my purse in the bag. So, the hardest part was not having some lipstick handy. Considering, that's not too bad.

____________________________________

With all of the world events, London terrorist plot and Israel ceasefire, it gave me a new perspective of the men and women in military attire. I travel a lot for work and pass by them often at the airport. Today I couldn't help but say thanks to the two that I saw. I was nervous about what I should or shouldn't say. Finally, I realized all I needed to say was literally "thank you." It's amazing how quickly their faces lit up with a genuine "thank you" right back to me. No matter my feelings on the war, those soldiers are doing something I never could. I'm thankful for their dedication.

____________________________________

Last I heard the arrests were up to 40 or so connected to the London terrorist plot. Today was the first time I've flown since last week. Sitting on the plane, I was absolutely perplexed that there are 40+ people in this world with that much hate and rage to want to destroy so many innocent people.

Sweet Saturday

Ahhhhh...today is one of those perfect Saturdays. Nothing scheduled. No place to be at a certain time until later tonight. No timetable.

I have plenty of things I need to do and check off my to-do list (which has become way too long), but I get to decide what and when. Hopefully this doesn't sound too self-absorbed. But during the week at work, I'm pretty much scheduled with conference calls, meetings, and deadlines from the second I walk in the door to the second I leave. So a day like today feels a little liberating! :)

Something tells me 4 months from now my Saturdays will be quite different. For today, I'll enjoy my Sweet Saturday.

______________________________________

End-of-day update -

Mission accomplished: caught-up on Project Runway, watched a movie, paid bills, balanced the checkbook, read a magazine, had a quick nap, cleaned out the junk room, and had a nice dinner with Wade. It was a Sweet Saturday.

A Scare

2:00 a.m. I can't sleep. I guess it makes sense after the last few days we've had.

Before I go through the scenario, I'll give the ending away first. Our baby is doing great and is growing. We just had to go through 3 days of not knowing for sure.

Late last week, I received a surprise call from my doctor's office that they'd like me to come back in for another sonogram. The main sonogram technician reviewed my 20-week pictures and said she couldn't see the baby's 4th chamber of the heart.

Originally I assumed the call from the office was an issue with insurance paperwork. Not quite. The nurse tried to be very reassuring that it was probably just the way the baby was positioned.

But, the next 3 days were tough. In the back of my head, I knew the odds were working for this little guy, not against. I had just been in for a check-up, and heard the heartbeat. It sounded and measured good.

Surely, it was just like she said and it was because the baby was in a bad position. Although logic makes for the best argument there, it's hard to feel that everywhere else. I later told the nurse (in between muffled sobs of crying) that I've had a miscarriage, and I work for the American Heart Association (I hear these stories all of the time). Hopefully she could understand why this news/question is hard to hear.

So, 9:00 a.m. Monday morning comes around, and we headed back to the doctor's office. The news was good. Everything seems to be in place as it should be. Obvious relief and thankfulness.

So, I should be sleeping fine now? I guess the emotions of the day are still settling and keeping me awake. This experience made me realize how vested we are in this baby. This baby that we haven't seen, haven't heard, haven't held, haven't even named yet. But somehow, God is forming this little guy each day, and I seem to grow more attached and in love.

I am so thankful that the report was good and continue to pray that he will develop into the son that we hope for.

Back to 30

To go back to what got me started on blogging, I thought I'd share something interesting a friend sent me on turning 30. I've bolded the ones I've got taken care of and put my own commentaries in parentheses...looks like I'm a little behind.

30 Things Everyone Should Know How to Do Before Turning 30 by (Adcock, Siobhan) "provides idiot-proof instructions for mastering these and other essential, face-saving, and possibly life-saving skills.

You'll learn how to...
1. wrap a present (my favorite!)
2. start a successful fire in a fireplace, at a campsite, and in a barbecue (maybe I can start one on accident)
3. finish a piece of furniture
4. get a raise
5. order wine at a restaurant without getting stiffed
6. parallel park in three breathtakingly beautiful movements (maybe about 10)
7. dance a "slow dance" without looking like an idiot (it's all in the sway)
8. use a full place setting properly, including chopsticks and Asian soup spoons
9. clean your place in under 45 minutes, when friends or relatives,are coming by unexpectedly
10. hold your liquor
11. cure a hangover
12. do the Heimlich Maneuver
13. use a compass
14. change a flat (yeah right!)
15. jump start a car (double yeah right!)
16. open a champagne bottle
17. send a drink to someone's table
18. cook one "signature meal" (that one is easy for me, since I only have a few)
19. whistle with your fingers (huh???)
20. take good pictures
21. fold a fitted sheet
22. remove common stains
23. sew a button (sad, but true that I don't know how)
24. carve turkey, lasagna, and birthday cake
25. hold a baby
26. change a diaper
27. keep a plant alive for more than a year
28. make dogs and cats love you
29. help someone out of a car
30. write superior thank you notes

Remember the Alamo...I forget, who won?

I've been traveling for almost a week for work and have been a little out of touch. Bad blogger.

Some catching up: Two weeks ago we took a trip that has turned into an annual tradition, taking our niece and nephew (Trip and Mary Tish) to San Antonio. At eight and six years old, they always have some entertaining things to say, and the trip was lots of fun.

The first stop was to see the Austin bats (all 750,000 of them!) that head out for their evening on the prowl each day at dusk. If you look up close at the picture, you'll see the line of bats in the air. There is a steady line of bats for almost 20 minutes straight. Slightly freaky.

Then on to San Antonio. My sweet, wonderful friend and college roommate and her sweet husband (Garyn & Zach) have been so gracious to let us come invade and stay the weekend at their home.

So we all headed to the Alamo. I hadn't been there in years. To be completely honest, I had to do get some quick mini-history lessons from Wade as a reminder that we actually lost the battle of the Alamo. Those 2 years of Texas History just didn't seem to stick (yes, I'm hiding my face in embarrassment). But, it was pretty cool to see. And, I never realized how many people came from other states to defend Texas...thanks Tennessee!


A highlight of the trip for the kids was visiting the new family-owned shop Garyn & Zach have opened along with the rest of the Keener clan. It's a franchise called Just Dogs and is the absolute cutest shop of gourmet dog treats and fun dog accessories. If you're a dog-lover and are ever in San Antonio, you must go by North Star Mall and see it.

Both of the kids had $10 in spending money for a souvenir. They held onto their money the entire weekend and waited to spend all of it at Just Dogs. I'm sure their dog thanks them!

One of the most memorable parts was when Wade & I taught them two of our favorite songs in the car. So, Mary Tish and I had a great time jamming out to the one and only "Sweet Caroline" by Neil Diamond. Wade went a little less classic and taught them "Sauerkraut" by Weird Al Yankovick.

It was a fun and memorable weekend. We even survived and handled "How much longer until we get there?" all 50 times.

It's a Boy!

Today was a memorable day. My 20-week sonogram showed that we're having a boy!

This definitely does make the whole idea of having a baby much more real and exciting. First was the initial relief of seeing that the heartbeat was strong and vital organs were in place. Then, the excitement was that it was clearly a boy.

So after that concept settled in, my mind really started racing:

• What kind of mom and dad will we be like?
• What will he look like?
• How will I handle gross boy stuff?
• Can I survive his broken bones and bloody noses?
• Puberty...Yikes!
• What girls will he date?
• What kind of mother-in-law will I be like?

So many things to consider. For now, we'll slow down and take one day at a time. First things first... a name. Hmmmmm?

We are continually thankful for this amazing blessing from God!
____________________________

Although he looks somewhat skeletonish, I thought this sonogram picture was too cute. He looks like he's looking right into the camera and waving hello!

July 13, 1996

10 years ago today was my first date with Wade. It's still a matter of debate if it was a real "date" or not. At the time, I considered it a night out with a good friend. When I showed up and realized his ENTIRE family was there for his dad's birthday party, I realized it was a little more than a friendly dinner.

Who knew that 2 months later we would officially start dating, 3 years later we would get married, and 10 years later we would be expecting a baby.

I'm amazed by how life progresses. There have been plenty of ups and plenty of downs throughout the last 10 years, but I can't imagine anyone else with me along the way.

I'm sure glad I said yes to that date. :)

Are You In There?

By the size of my expanding waistline, I know the baby is in there and growing. According to all of the books, I should be able to feel the baby move. So, I've now become obsessed with analyzing every stomach gurgle. Was that the baby? Or just my lunch?

Everyone says I've probably felt it move already, but just didn't know that it was the baby. Aaarrgghhh! I'm really looking forward to that part...next will be figuring out was that a boy kick or a girl kick?

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Saturday 7/8/06 update:

I think maybe I felt the baby today...still not sure. It kind of felt like when you get a small eye twitch or finger muscle twitch, but inside my stomach. Could that have been it??????

Julie Andrews...

.
...for real? I pulled this from Wade's blog. MyHeritage.com will take a picture and pick a celebrity that you look like the most.





I guess I should be singing the hills are alive, becuase it said I looked like Julie Andrews. If it was the picture and version of her from 30 years ago I might not feel as bad. But the picture they compared me to was one of her currently.

Not quite sure what to think.

A Beautiful Sound

Every 4 weeks over the last 4 months I go into panic mode. It usually starts about 2-3 days before my OB appointments. Then the worries begin. As was the case today @ my 17-week check-up.

But all of that seems to go out the door the second we hear that heartbeat. To me, that fast whooshing noise sounds like our little baby inside there saying, "Here I am Mom & Dad working hard...Don't you worry!"

What a relief...and what a blessing.

So little Baby Strz, keep growing!

Mars, Venus, & Mavericks

Another example of the differences between men and women...how you respond when your favorite sports team loses.

I think it's fair to say that (for a girl) I'm a decent sports fan. I can watch a good game and can follow most of our home teams enough to know who the big dogs are and what the hot topic is. Of all the sports, basketball is probably my favorite to watch. And, over the last few years, I've really enjoyed the Mavericks.

So as they made it to the Finals, I've been following it and have been genuinely excited to see it all happen. I guess that's where any similarities between me and the die-hard males stop.

It's been almost 24 hours since the sad loss, and I've gotten about 5 sentences out of my husband about the game. The loss is so devastating/frustrating that he won't even talk about it.

I don't understand this. No offense, but it wasn't like we could've done anything to win or lose the game for them, so how can you take it so personally? It doesn't compute with me.

Father's Day memory

Me, Dad, Shannon


A little trip down memory lane...Father's Day 1984. As you can see, my awkward stage was just beginnng.

Nice shades and moustache Dad...too cool! :) Happy Father's Day.

Lake Food

This past weekend we headed to the lake with friends. As always, it's lots of fun being at the lake...no wristwatch, no TV, no timetable, but lots of lake food.

I realized that there are certain foods I love having while at the lake. I rarely ever buy these any other time, but for some reason taking it to the lake makes it all OK.

• Big Cheez-It
• Chewy Chips-A-Hoy cookies
• watermelon
• hot dogs
• Rice Krispie treats
• powdered donuts for breakfast

After all of this, I'm scared to think about my next weigh-in at the doctor's office. But I think I heard somewhere that lake food calories don't count. :)

Any other yummy lake food I forgot to list?

Welcome to the family!

I'm an aunt (again)! My sister and brother-in-law just had their first baby.

Introducing....

Mallory Kate
















She's a cutie! It's hard to believe that my younger sister is a mom. But, I know that Mallory's life will be filled with lots of love...and laughter! I can't wait to find out what her personality will be like and tell her all of the goofy and funny stories about her mom:

• from when I made her let me pick out all of her outfits
• when we played school and I was always the teacher and she was the student
• when we would talk to each other from the bedroom next door with our Cabbage Patch Kid walkie-talkies
• when she didn't like the boy Cabbage Patch Kid she got for Christmas, so I got 2
• when I gave her a bloody nose (I cried more than she did)
• all of the funny moments of "Grumpy Shannon" when she would wake up
• and our fun (we are actually friends) semester @ ACU together

The joys of aunthood! :) If Mallory turns out to be anything like her mom or dad, she'll be a wonderful person to be around full of faith and love.

I'm so happy for your new family. Love, Aunt Kelly.

A Scary Phone Call

I’ve been dreading a phone call like this ever since Wade started cycling last year.

It’s Saturday morning. I’m at home getting ready for my productive day of errands when the phone rings and I notice it’s Wade’s cell phone. Here’s what I hear:

Loud outside background noise and commotion.

Female voice: Who am I calling?

Wade (in the background): My wife.

Female voice: Mrs. Strzinek, this is a student nurse. Your husband has been in a bike accident. He’s OK, just really scratched and banged up and might have a head, leg, or hip injury. We’re loading him into an ambulance and figuring out what hospital to take him to. Here he is.

Wade: Babe, I’m OK. Just call my dad (who’s a doctor) and meet me at the ER.

CLICK.

So, as I’m about to get sick with panic. I realize I have no idea where he is or where he’s going. This probably ranks in my Top 10 lifetime moments of panic.

Long story short…I got a hold of the nurse again to find out the ambulance was headed to Baylor Dallas. So, the following frantic hour drive to the hospital ranks as another Top 10 moment of panic as my mind starts thinking of every horrible scenario possible (from a broken leg or hip to internal bleeding). Why do we do that to ourselves????

I arrived at the hospital to find Wade in a neck brace and on an X-ray machine stretcher. I was a little relieved when the first thing he said to me (with a smile) was “Are you mad at me?” Realizing it wasn’t life-threatening, I said, “We’ll see after we know how this all turns out.” :)

After a few hours in the ER, we received great news that nothing was broken. Wade has a pretty huge and intense road rash and bruising all along the right side of his body. He said the part where the nurse had to clean it out hurt almost more than the accident. But, we are SO thankful that it is something that’s not permanent and will heal.

I have to give him credit. This wasn’t from cycling at crazy speeds or doing anything dumb (although in my opinion, the entire sport is a tad crazy). He unfortunately was going through an intersection and hit an oil patch in the road. He said it was like hitting ice all of a sudden. The people who saw the accident said his bike went right out from under him, and he slid almost 20 feet along the road.

Not to be too melodramatic, but I know that it could’ve been so much worse. So to answer his first question am I mad…as of today, not mad, just so thankful he’s going to be OK.

We’ll see if that changes in a couple more days. :)

Woo-Hoo!

GO MAVS! Headed to the Finals...very exciting!

I've been saying forever that the network that airs the games should have small box on the bottom of the screen with a "Cuban Cam." The Finals would be even more entertaining to watch Mark Cuban act in true goober form.

Catching Up...

Time flies...super busy @ work and a quick little vacation with Wade. First off...utter dog humiliation:




















Poor little thing. Macy had a bug bite on her head that she wouldn't stop scratching, so enter "The Cone." She was definitely in shock the first 24 hours...I think a little depressed as well. In fact the first 10 minutes it was on, she didn't move...at all! Finally after a couple of days, she realized that she needed a few extra inches of room to turn corners and go up the stairs. Yesterday was her first day back to normal dog freedom. Hopefully we didn't do too much psychological damage.
____________________________________________

Next...vacation:

To celebrate our 7th anniversary and spend Uncle Sam's tax refund, we headed off to the beach for a much-needed getaway. This is actually the second time back (we missed you Lori & Stephen) to the all-inclusive place just outside of Playa del Carmen. Is that a sign of getting older when you repeat vacations?

No matter what, it was nice to get away and relax, but the trip had a little of everything, the good, bad, ugly, and funny.

Here's the overview:

• Of the four days we were there, it was only hot and sunny on one. Cloudy and overcast the other three.
• Hence, no tan. I do have a random blotchy sunburn from the one day of sun. Note to self, aerosol, continuous spray suntan lotion doesn't work well.
• Big realization: I'm way too spoiled with wireless internet. Our first day resulted in a 5-hour wild goose chase searching for wireless internet access, so we could e-mail two urgent e-mails. Finally after a $40 cab fare, the Mexican Wal-Mart Internet Cafe saved the day.
• What are the odds that when you're walking outside full speed ahead that a bird can time it so perfectly to drop its excess right on top of your head? Well pretty good I guess, because it happened to me. Gross!
• We did learn a little trick. When you're a repeat guest, be sure to tell the hotel. Free T-shirts and a complimentary bottle of tequila sent to the room. We left it for the cleaning crew to enjoy. :)
• It is possible for a grown 30-year-old man to consume eight servings of ice cream in a four-day period without getting sick. I'm sure he won't gain a pound, either.
• Speaking of getting sick...it's not very fun to have morning sickness while in the middle of a little outdoor Mexican shopping center.
• Speaking of pregnancy, being three months pregnant and wearing you're regular swimsuit doesn't bode well together. Things are a-changing!
• See http://www.wadesrantings.blogspot.com for Wade's sound-off on foreign languages.

Overall it had its interesting moments, but we had a great time together!

Baby Strz

I've been blogging with a secret lately. I figure it's time to let the cat out of the bag...I'm pregnant!

I'm a little over 10 weeks now and should be due around December 6. The last couple months have been quite a roller coaster of emotions. Having been through a miscarriage last year, the first few weeks of this pregnancy have been a little different than last. Lots of worry and fear hoping that the same thing wouldn't happen.

But so far, so good. In fact right after 8 weeks, we were able to have the first sonogram. We could see the little heart beating and even hear it already. It's a pretty amazing and unbelievable feeling seeing and hearing that little beating heart...inside me??!! We are very thankful for the progress so far and are very prayerful that it will continue.

So, there you have it. Wade & I are getting more and more excited with each day that passes and the realization that this could be the baby we've been waiting for and wanting for some time. The journey continues!

Say it isn't so!

.
I feel a little guilty. I've complained all day that Chris was voted off American Idol last night...the horror! But, I was quickly reminded that I didn't help the situation. I didn't vote.

What a good real life example (yes, American Idol can relate to real life). :) If you don't participate in the voting process, then you can't complain. So I'm sorry Chris, you were my favorite, but I failed you. :)

Go Wade, Go!

See Wade's blog for an update on Day 1 of his crazy, 150-mile, cross-Metroplex bike ride:

http://www.wadesrantings.blogspot.com

I'm proud! :)

AHA props

I try not to blog about too many work things, but this is a biggie that I'm pretty proud of (I am in PR after all). No matter your opinion about the former president, this announcement is quite impressive considering the scope and impact on the millions of kids it will affect. Some statistics say that this generation of kids could be the first not to outlive their parents if something doesn't change with their levels of nutrition or exercise. This doesn't fix the entire problem, but I think it is a reasonable and significant step in the right direction.

Alliance for a Healthier Generation and Industry Leaders Set Healthy School Beverage Guidelines for U.S. Schools

New York, NY – The Alliance for a Healthier Generation – a joint initiative of the William J. Clinton Foundation and the American Heart Association – has worked with representatives of Cadbury Schweppes, Coca-Cola, PepsiCo, and the American Beverage Association to establish new guidelines to limit portion sizes and reduce the number of calories available to children during the school day. Under these guidelines, only lower calorie and nutritious beverages will be sold to schools. This is the Alliance’s first industry agreement as part of its Healthy Schools Program, and it affects close to 35 million students across the country.

These science-based guidelines are just one part of the Alliance for a Healthier Generation’s overall strategy to help kids live healthier lives by decreasing excess calories consumed while increasing calories burned. Along with the Alliance’s other strategies, these guidelines will significantly impact the epidemic of childhood obesity. Launched in February of this year, the Alliance’s Healthy Schools Program works with schools to help curb obesity among their students by creating environments that foster healthy lifestyles.

For more information visit http://www.healthiergeneration.org/.

Bad Blogger

I've broken the blog rules of going way too long without blogging. I'm sure my dedicated readers are distraught. :) It's been a busy couple of weeks, and a recent trip to Las Vegas kept me away.

I have to say that I've had my Vegas fill. I don't think I'll have the desire to go back for about another 10 years. It was an interesting trip, since I was there with my parents. Pretty funny!

The highlight of the trip was the Celine Dion concert. I agree that she's the goofiest and at times, the cheesiest performer out there. Once you get past that, the performance is pretty great. She has an incredible voice, and the staging and dancers are impressive.

The downside of the trip is the sensory overload. I don't know how anyone can be there more than 3 days without losing it. Losing it mentally or monetarily.

I quickly realized that I'm too cheap for Vegas. The quarter slots were big time for me, and I had to search high and low for a $5 game table...hidden in between all of the $10-$25 minimum tables...no thanks!

Needless to say, I didn't come back any richer. Just a dull headache from the constant ringing and new appreciation for fresh air!

A little smug...

For the married folks out there, have you had that feeling when your spouse does something that makes you sit back and say, I told you so?

I'm having to make sure my smugness doesn't get out of whack.

I awoke Friday morning to an e-mail from Wade with a link...to his new blog!

I couldn't believe it and was cracking up. I've been blogging for about 4 months now. Wade has been a faithful reader, but has carried the attitude of "what's the point." I guess he figured it out, because as he says, he's come over to the dark side of blogging.

It's definitely bound to be entertaining...although after his first posting, I told him he sounded a little angry.

I guess the upside for me is that he's much more of a techie and helped me figure out how to post links over on the right-side column. :)

It's a little scary now that there are 2 Strzineks in the blogosphere...enjoy!

http://www.wadesrantings.blogspot.com/

Best/Worst

I saw this on Kent's blog and thought it was interesting...My 5 Best & Worst Purchases. It's a lot of pressure to think best and worst of all time, but at least off the top of my head, here goes:

Best Purchases:

• 3 credit hours of Business Math@ ACU - Odd that it's on my best list, because I got a "D" in the class! But it ended up being a pretty good investment, since that's where Wade & I became such good friends. Who knew, when I walked into the class and saw that empty seat next to Wade "how do you say or spell his last name," I'd be writing about it 10 years later and his last name would be mine?
• Macy - We're crazy about our dog! What would life be like without our co-dependent golden retriever?
• GAP jean jacket - I love it and have definitely got my money's worth.
• "Justified" - Justin Timberlake's first solo CD...it never gets old...he is the cutest!
• Sauchony tennis shoes - the shoes I trained and completed a marathon in. They got me through all 26.2 miles.

Worst Purchases:

• Light-colored carpet - I guess it was supposed to help design and flow, but it's sadly turned me into high-maintenance Kelly. I'm sure the carpet cleaning service we use would categorize it as a "best" purchase.
• Spanish class @ a community college - I thought I would go back to school to learn Spanish. I don't remember a thing.
• "Delirium" - We just went to the newest Cirque de Soliel show. I've seen others and loved them. No one told us that we should've been tripping on acid to enjoy and/or understand the show.
• Neon phone - I had my own phone line in my room during junior high. I thought it would be so cool to get one of those see-through phones that has neon lights. The phone drove me bonkers and woke me up all of the time. The ring was so loud and annoying, and the entire room would light up when it rang.
• MC Hammer pants -I still can't believe I wore them, but I did. I distinctly remember that they were black and purple paisley rayon pants. To coordinate, I had a super cool purple rayon shirt with coordinating black button covers. Yikes!

Feel free to share your best & worst!

Bye Bye Bucky

I'm addicted to American Idol.

In fact, I was about to have a heart attack when my Tivo ended the results show right as Ryan was announcing who was voted off....the horror!

So, I had to wait until the 9:00 p.m. news to find out the not-so-surprising news...Bucky is outie!

Chris is sill my favorite.
Kellie drives me crazy.
Katherine is good, but kind of boring.
Ace's boy band looks won't last much longer.
Elliot...not sure?
Taylor is so much fun, but won't win.
Paris is great.

Wow, scary that I just rattled off all of the contestants. Isn't this show targeting teenagers? :)

I just don't get it

.

We live a couple miles from Texas Motor Speedway, so since it was another NASCAR weekend, I figured I should try to see what the hoopla was about. After all, you would think they were giving away the $1 million golden ticket by the crazy bumper-to-bumper traffic the last few days.

So, I watched on TV as cars raced around a big track for hours.

I really did try, but I just don't get it. I don't understand how it's a sport. I don't understand how it's entertaining to watch. And, I really don't understand this video, "Waiting for Race Week," which features some fellow Texans that came out 12 days before the race to get the best camp spot.

My favorite line..."We're all rednecks...some of us just have more fun than the others."
http://www.dfw.com/multimedia/dfw/news/archive/0331SPEEDWAY/index.html

Sorry to any fans out there, maybe I'm missing something?

I pulled a "Ross" from Friends

My very nice father-in-law and mother-in-law recently gave us a free night at the Four Seasons, since they wouldn't be able to stay there. How exciting! I actually worked at the Four Seasons as an intern during college, but had never stayed there...and it was for free (even better)!

By the time we were checking out of the hotel, the bag I brought seemed a little fuller. This is where I agree with Ross that there are certain items in a hotel room that are your "gift" for staying...right? :) Don't you remember the episode where he takes everything from the lightbulbs to the salt?

I didn't take it that far, but I love coming home from a hotel stay with a new cute mini bottle of shampoo & conditioner, fancy soaps, or even the nice notepads and pens. Now our houseguests get to enjoy a little piece of the Four Seasons, even while staying in our less than 5-star guest room.

I'm no clepto...I left the fluffy robe in the room (even though it sure looked cute).

Here's a fun book review that my cousin sent me. I'll have to add this to my reading list!

The May Queen: Women on Life, Love, Work, and Pulling It All Together in Your 30s:
You were sort of hoping that 30 was the new 20. ’Cause the big three-0h is staring you in the face, and you’re just not ready to make eye contact.

Chin up, grande dame. There’s always concealer and cheap wine.

But if you crave a more intellectual panacea for coping with early-onset adulthood, there’s the new book The May Queen: Women on Life, Love, Work, and Pulling It All Together in Your 30s.

Featuring honest and, for the most part, well-crafted essays by a bunch of gals who feel your pain — including lauded authors Meghan Daum and Jennifer Weiner; Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter Tanya Donelly; and co-star of the indie hit Kissing Jessica Stein, Heather Juergensen — this collection just might make you feel better.

That is, until you recall these writers’ maddeningly impressive credentials and find yourself reaching for the cheap wine. And deciding that 40 is the new 30.

Bankheads in Belton!

Check out the latest news...My brother-in-law and sister are headed to Belton...congrats Brad!

http://www.umhb.edu/sportsinfo/csoccer/default.htm

American Idol 5' finalist Kevin Covais dumped girlfriend to land votes

I guess his plan didn't quite work out for him...goodbye Chicken Little!

By Steve Rogers, 03/14/2006 Demonstrating that even American Idol's youngest competitors will apparently do whatever they can to land additional votes from home viewers, 16-year-old American Idol 5 finalist Kevin Covais reportedly broke up with his 15-year-old girlfriend in an attempt make himself more appealing to the program's young female viewers.

"He's my best friend still," Victoria Fairclough, Kevin's former high school sweetheart, told AOL's TMZ.com website in an interview published Monday afternoon. "We'll remain friends." Despite the break up, Victoria says the pair still talk several times each day.

According to Victoria's comments to TMZ.com, the pair broke up after agreeing that Kevin would "gain more popularity if his fans knew he was single."

Presumably consistent with the break up plan, Victoria told the website that she isn't sure if the pair will ever get back together. Although she won't be eligible to tryout and prove it to American Idol viewers for another two years, Victoria also told TMZ.com that she actually considers herself to be a better singer than Kevin. Before he tried out for Idol, Victoria beat Kevin when they went both competed in two local talent competitions. "He was upset that I won," she said about her victory in their Island Trees High School's "I.T. Idol" competition. "But he was still happy for me. He was proud of me."

Don't bite the hand (or paw)...

If you haven't seen this before, it's pretty funny:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4cSRpu7bI04&feature=Favorites&page=1&t=t&f=b

A prayer of St. Theresa of Avila

One of my dearest friends recently sent this to me...

May today there be peace within.
May you trust God that you are exactly where you are meant to be.
May you not forget the infinite possibilities that are born of faith.
May you use those gifts that you have received, and pass on the love that has been given to you...
May you be content knowing you are a child of God...
Let this presence settle into your bones, and allow your soul the freedom to sing, dance, praise and love.
It is there for each and every one of us.
~ A prayer of St. Theresa of Avila

I hope it's as refreshing and helpful for you as it has been for me.

confrontation...yikes!

Instead of a big throw down party for the Big 3-0, I decided to celebrate by taking the day off on Friday. So, a day at the spa followed by a nap, and time to bum around the house was the ultimate treat.

The only problem was the massage. When I scheduled it, they asked what comfort level I wanted. I asked for light-moderate. Well, I'm scared to think what her deep tissue massage is like. I think she somehow bruised my lung, kidney, and spleen...my back muscles are still sore!

The whole time I'm thinking, "You've got nothing to prove to me woman...yes, you're strong!" So, I'm cringing in pain, but still don't say anything...why is that? It's like the hairdresser I keep going back to, but can't bear to tell her that I wish she would cut my hair a little different.

There's a goal for my '30s..get assertive with confrontation!

30 and proud!

Like everyone said it would...Wednesday was just another day. A good day, but not much different than any others. Only difference is that I'm now 30!

I received several phone calls from concerned family and friends making sure I was OK. I guess my blogging about turning 30 has communicated that I had a sense of dread. I tried to reassure everyone that my emotional state is fine, I'm just weirded out by the whole idea.

But the day was great. When I woke up that morning, it was pretty surreal, though. It sounds so self-absorbed, but I was brushing my teeth staring in the mirror thinking, "How can I be 30?" It doesn't seem possible.

It was definitely a great day (actually a great week as I got to celebrate several times this week). I'm surrounded by lots of wonderful family and friends...what more could you ask for?

And as most people that make the change, I did a lot of self-reflecting and realized it ain't so bad! Over the past year or so, I've become much more content with who I am, what I believe, what makes me happy, and as a co-worker said "comfortable in my own skin."

It is exciting to think what lies ahead in the next decade. At least I have a few more years before I have to start the countdown to 40! :)

Series on the Big 3-0

Aunt B sent me the link below to a series that a CA columnist wrote over several weeks before she turned 30. It's pretty good. She decided to spend the last few weeks of her 20s doing different things she was either scared of or had never attempted. Hmmm. Not sure if I'm that adventurous, but "tossing pizza dough" and "making tiramisu" are both on my never done list. I'll have to come up with some of my own before I turn 31. :)

http://www.contracostatimes.com/mld/cctimes/13517860.htm

James Blunt

I'm rarely an early adapter, so this is probably a little behind the times, but I just caught up on my Tivoed Oprah episodes from last week. One of the musical guests was James Blunt, who sings "Beautiful," which is all over the radio. For something that's already overplayed, it's still such a sweet song, and his other songs are just as good. He looks like Steve Nash (who used to play for the Dallas Mavericks). So cute in that odd, British, dry wit, long hair way.

http://www.jamesblunt.com/

Sarcasm

I'm learning quickly that sometimes my sarcasm or tongue-in-cheek phrases don't carry over well in a blog posting.

When talking to Wade about my last blog, he said he was surprised with my description of judging social classes. What??!! (in horror)

I'm realizing that I didn't quite communicate what I meant by the melting pot of jury duty. More than anything, it's a discredit to the sheltered life I live in. I find myself surrounded by people just like me...why is it that people unlike us make us uncomfortable?

Hopefully it makes sense.

Jury Duty

Ahhh, Jury Duty. What a funny thing. This was only my second time in 29+ years to receive the dreaded jury summons. The first time was several years ago in Dallas County. I was in and out of there within 2 hours. Things didn't go that easy at the Tarrant County Courthouse today.

Jury Duty is funny to me, kind of like going to the DMV. Those are two of the few times in life you're really thrown into a melting pot. Most of my life is typically surrounded by people like me. I don't do it on purpose, but I live in suburbia USA, work with well-educated peers, and have family and friends all living their middle-class dreams. :)

So as someone who's an avid people-watcher, a social situation like Jury Duty is pretty entertaining to me. No major drama with the folks around me except for the chair neighbor that talks your ear off and the 30+ people who try to convince the judge they need to be excused.

The really funny part of Jury Duty is the inner battle of wanting to get out of there as soon as you can to get on with your life and at the same time, feeling patriotic and somewhat intrigued with the idea of being on a jury. How American can you get?

When they started calling juror names for the first few courts, I found myself feeling a little rejected when my name wasn't on the list. They don't want me? Why not, I'd be a good juror!

After about an hour or so, I was realizing that it was a good thing, because then I could go back to the office and get caught up at work. So, it was time for the last list...alas "Kelly....(long pause) Steerrrzzzuuuuuneck?" is called. So they do want me after all!

Then I realized they were calling lots of names. I'm thinking to myself this must be a really controversial court case and they need lots of potential jurors...how exciting. Not quite. In fact, it wasn't exciting at all.

I was selected for the "alternate jury." We all got to wait around at the courthouse from 8:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m. as potential alternates in case they needed more jurors. Good times!

As annoyed as I was the entire time, I had to keep reminding myself that a jury of your peers is an incredible freedom. It is a privilege for me to hang out at the courthouse ALL day.

Family Shame Continues

It started when I was the first grandchild to break tradition (2 grandparents, 1 parent, 1 aunt, 1 uncle, 3 cousins...no pressure!) and go to a non-University of California university by going to school in Abilene, TX (go ACU Wildcats).

Now I seem to have made it worse by not knowing about the leader of the Free Speech movement (see family comments from prior blog). Yikes...the family shame continues!

Thanks for the clarification y'all! :)

3 is here!

I had to write a check today and realized it's here. 3. As in March. As in the month I turn 30. Why am I so freaked out by this? It's not a sad-depressed thing, but a weird...how-is-it-possible thing.
_______________________

Thanks to the folks that shared their "4 Things." Just a reminder that anyone can leave a comment, even if you're not a blogger.
_______________________

The Enright side of the family out there will enjoy this 30-something quote...Go Bears! I kept it because it was about being 30 and from UC Berkeley, but I have no idea who this guy is/was. Any ideas?

"Never trust anyone over 30." (Mario Savio, 1960s U.C. Berkeley activist

Four Things...

This has made its way around several blogs, and I just received it from a friend...

Four jobs you have had in your life:
1. Birthday Card coordinator at a dentist's office (first job ever...must be where my greeting card obsession began)
2. PR Intern @ Four Seasons
3. Student worker @ ACU Office of Media Relations
4. Communications VP @ AHA (current one...not as glamorous as it sounds...i love it, though)

Four movies you would watch over and over (not necessarily my top favorites, but ones I watch often):
1. Sense and Sensibility
2. Napoleon Dynamite
3. The Molly Ringwald Triple Threat: The Breakfast Club, Sixteen Candles, Pretty in Pink
4. About A Boy

Four books I could read over & over:
It's so horrible to say, but I can't ever re-read books! I like it once, but don't seem to have the attention span (or maybe imagination) to read it again.

Four places you have lived:
1. Houston/Sugar Land, TX
2. Hurst, TX
3. Abilene, TX
4. Fort Worth, TX

Four TV shows you love to watch:
1. Oprah (the bulk of my recorded Tivo time)
2. Survivor
3. Inside the Actors Studio
4. Currently...the Winter Olympics

Four memorable places you have been on vacation:
1. Near-death skiing experience in Breckenridge, CO
2. Honeymoon in Kiawah Island, SC
3. Marathon in Hawaii
4. Philadelphia (most recent...very cool city)

Four web sites I visit daily:
1. americanheart.org
2. oprah.com (I really want tickets to the show!)
3. weather.com
4. blogs, blogs, blogs

Four of my favorite foods:
1. whole wheat bread with Peter Pan reduced-fat crunchy peanut butter & Diet Coke
2. Chipotle guacamole (the best ever!)
3. Blue Bell Birthday Cake ice cream
4. Wade's spaghetti

Four places I would rather be right now:
1. Playa del Carmen (best beach location)
2. Oprah Winfrey Show
3. Torino, Italy, for the Olympics in lots of snow!
4. any vacation destination with Wade

Four friends I am tagging to do their own "Four things":
Anyone who reads this...either on your own blog or as a comment for my non-blogging friends and family (get a blog! ) :)

Promising

After a long day like today, here's a promising stat from my random 30-something trivia:

"Psychological health steadily increases from 30 years of age to 40, 50, and 62 years of age." (Psychology and Aging, Volume 15, Number 2)

Important Correction

If you scroll down to "In My Prayers," you'll see the entry about my aunt suffering a stroke recently. There is an unfortunate error in the posting. She's only 45. As someone who is hanging on to 29 for as long as possible, I understand the importance of an accurate age. So, Aunt P. is not in her late '40s, but mid '40s. I stand corrected. :)

The most important update is that I'm happy to say that her recovery has been incredible. Go Aunt P.!

I've Got the Fever!

As in Olympic fever. Wade & I are Olympic junkies. I guess this is the 4th Olympic Games since we've been married. Each time they come around, we become glued to the TV (this year the Tivo). So, I'm sure there will be several blog rants and raves over the next 2 weeks about the big games. Plus, I can't wait to see what gut-wrenching, pull on your heart strings feature stories they come up with this year! To get it started, here's my commentary on the Opening Ceremony:



I think it's supposed to represent the Italian"passionate spirit." It reminded me of the red Power Ranger on fire.






The only word the comes to mind..."Ricollllllllaaaaaa!"





A Ferrari? I guess this was their weak effort to connect to the male audience in the middle of all the symbolism and interpretive dancing. The odd part was that it came onto the stage, revved the engine, did some donuts, and was engulfed in smoke from the burning rubber. You couldn't really see much. But, I guess it was enough to get some testosterone flowing.



This was actually one of the coolest parts. All of these dancers were organized into a formation like a giant skier. They would move around so it looked like he was skiing. Pretty impressive.





Then, the opposite extreme. This guy started his dance dressed up in a suit. To represent the transition to Italy's future, he stripped down to the jumpsuit and Mohawk. I'm not sure how that represents the future...it looks pretty '80s to me.




And, alas the lighting of the torch. I don't know how or why it happens, but in true "Oh-my-gosh-I'm-turning-into-my-mother-fashion," I got all teary-eyed when it was lit.