So I have to admit, I prescheduled the posts over the past 10 days or so. And if I hadn't, I'm sure I would have failed the the 30-day challenge, lol.Now that it is done, I hope to post at least 3-4 times a week. Hold me to it!
Showing posts with label 30-day challenge. Show all posts
Showing posts with label 30-day challenge. Show all posts
2.07.2011
Day 30-a picture
Yay! Finally done with the 30-day challenge! Since once again, this request is so vague, I just picked a random picture that makes me giggle:
So I have to admit, I prescheduled the posts over the past 10 days or so. And if I hadn't, I'm sure I would have failed the the 30-day challenge, lol.
Now that it is done, I hope to post at least 3-4 times a week. Hold me to it!
So I have to admit, I prescheduled the posts over the past 10 days or so. And if I hadn't, I'm sure I would have failed the the 30-day challenge, lol.Now that it is done, I hope to post at least 3-4 times a week. Hold me to it!
2.06.2011
Day 29-3 Wishes
1. For E to have a happy, healthy life and to achieve all her dreams and goals.
2. When my parents retire, if it's possible, I'd like to live in the same state, if not same city.
3. To eventually have my own business that runs so well I can be choosy with what projects I take, so I can focus on my family first.
2. When my parents retire, if it's possible, I'd like to live in the same state, if not same city.
3. To eventually have my own business that runs so well I can be choosy with what projects I take, so I can focus on my family first.
2.05.2011
Day 28-Something that stresses you out
Well if you read my post about 'something I've learned' you'll remember I'm trying to remove as much unnecessary stress from my life as possible. But I think the top stress-inducer for me is uncertainty. And the last year or so has been full of it!
I had lots of uncertainty with my job for numerous reasons. In July 2009 my manager 'quit' - which basically means she went part time only working on one project with no end date in sight. Of course her other responsibilities fell to me, in the mean time. By November 2010, she was back on, full time, but no longer my manager. During this time, my employer (an association) made a dramatic structural change (we became an association mgmt company, offering services to my former employer and other organizations) Not only were there questions about how the process would work, we also had to get to know the other clients and what projects we would work on for them. So when I quit in December, that was a huge weight lifted off my shoulders.
Originally my husband wanted to go to dental school. The application process starts a whole year prior to the school year you hope to enroll, so back in summer 2009 we were in the thick of getting all his requirements submitted. Fast forward to late winter/early spring 2010, and the plan has changed to the military. If any of you are familiar with military life, it is chock-full of surprises and twists and changes-to-original-plans. First we didn't know when he'd go to boot camp. Then we didn't know what his career field would be. And once he had left for boot camp the biggest question was, where would our first duty station be?
Well, last week we did get our answer - and it was our top pick! But (you knew that was coming, didn't you?) my hubs is in the middle of discussions with his chain-of-command about a possible career switch and/or getting commissioned as an officer. Which creates a fresh batch of uncertainty in my life.
What is my coping mechanism? I try to focus on the now. I cannot change the future, so I choose to not think about it!
I had lots of uncertainty with my job for numerous reasons. In July 2009 my manager 'quit' - which basically means she went part time only working on one project with no end date in sight. Of course her other responsibilities fell to me, in the mean time. By November 2010, she was back on, full time, but no longer my manager. During this time, my employer (an association) made a dramatic structural change (we became an association mgmt company, offering services to my former employer and other organizations) Not only were there questions about how the process would work, we also had to get to know the other clients and what projects we would work on for them. So when I quit in December, that was a huge weight lifted off my shoulders.
Originally my husband wanted to go to dental school. The application process starts a whole year prior to the school year you hope to enroll, so back in summer 2009 we were in the thick of getting all his requirements submitted. Fast forward to late winter/early spring 2010, and the plan has changed to the military. If any of you are familiar with military life, it is chock-full of surprises and twists and changes-to-original-plans. First we didn't know when he'd go to boot camp. Then we didn't know what his career field would be. And once he had left for boot camp the biggest question was, where would our first duty station be?
Well, last week we did get our answer - and it was our top pick! But (you knew that was coming, didn't you?) my hubs is in the middle of discussions with his chain-of-command about a possible career switch and/or getting commissioned as an officer. Which creates a fresh batch of uncertainty in my life.
What is my coping mechanism? I try to focus on the now. I cannot change the future, so I choose to not think about it!
2.04.2011
Day 27-Pets
We currently do not have any pets. And I don't think that will change any time soon. Not that I don't like pets - I do. When I was 6-7ish I remember having fish. I'm not sure how long they lived, but I do know that it wasn't long! On my 11th birthday, my parents gave me a dog, who I named Joey. He was about 2 months old when I got him, and he was so hyperactive and jumped a lot, and that's where I came up with his name. (Joey - name for baby kangaroos) Joey was a Keeshond. Here's a pic so you have an idea of what he looked like:
Not Joey! picture credit
That fur was cute, but so annoying! It got everywhere around the house. And it was rare to not find fur on our clothes. He was a very good dog; obedient and super loyal. When he was about 10 years old we found out he had cancer. And it had spread throughout his body when we found out. So while on my spring break in 2005, we put him down. As hard as that was, it was even harder seeing him suffer. He was a completely different dog - he wouldn't eat, or bark and he was barely walking. My dad actually had to carry him up and down the stairs.
So because I don't think I'd want to go through that again, as well as the work that goes into having pets, we are a pet-free family for now. Maybe when E gets older we'll consider it, but for now it's not in the cards.
Not Joey! picture creditThat fur was cute, but so annoying! It got everywhere around the house. And it was rare to not find fur on our clothes. He was a very good dog; obedient and super loyal. When he was about 10 years old we found out he had cancer. And it had spread throughout his body when we found out. So while on my spring break in 2005, we put him down. As hard as that was, it was even harder seeing him suffer. He was a completely different dog - he wouldn't eat, or bark and he was barely walking. My dad actually had to carry him up and down the stairs.
So because I don't think I'd want to go through that again, as well as the work that goes into having pets, we are a pet-free family for now. Maybe when E gets older we'll consider it, but for now it's not in the cards.
2.03.2011
2.02.2011
Day 25-Put your iPod on shuffle, first 10 songs
Now I have to forewarn you. I cleaned out my old closet at my parents' house and there were a bunch of old cds from high school in there. I didn't want to keep them, but I still wanted the music so I downloaded them into iTunes. I've never downloaded anything else into iTunes, so they're the only albums in there. Here goes!
I wish - R. Kelly
Basement - Puddle of Mudd
Don't you say No - R. Kelly
Six in the morning - Avant
Yesterday - Boyz II Men
Teach You a Lesson - Robin Thicke
If I Were a Boy - Beyonce
Fallin' In Love - Faith Evans
Suicide - Avant
Rock Your Body - Justin Timberlake
The two songs I italicized were from albums that were in my car, that's why they're more current than the rest.
I wish - R. Kelly
Basement - Puddle of Mudd
Don't you say No - R. Kelly
Six in the morning - Avant
Yesterday - Boyz II Men
Teach You a Lesson - Robin Thicke
If I Were a Boy - Beyonce
Fallin' In Love - Faith Evans
Suicide - Avant
Rock Your Body - Justin Timberlake
The two songs I italicized were from albums that were in my car, that's why they're more current than the rest.
2.01.2011
Day 24-Something you've learned
Recently I've realized that sometimes we over-complicate our lives. We join too many committees, which leads to too many meetings. We create spreadsheets, lists, planners, etc. to keep ourselves organized, but those very tools take time and energy to create in the first place. We want to throw perfect parties and have an immaculately decorated home - which creates stress about all the details to bring everything together.
Just as one occasionally needs to declutter your home, office, car, etc., I have removed some nonessential activities that have only caused me stress. While I won't completely quit any of the things listed above, I have learned to only participate in things that are necessary or fun. When I'm in the heat of a stressful moment, I must stop and ask myself if something is necessary; if not, in the big picture, will it make me happy? This helps me keep perspective on life and prioritize what's important. My new motto is 'Simplify everything'. And I think it will be a life-long journey to live the simple life.
Just as one occasionally needs to declutter your home, office, car, etc., I have removed some nonessential activities that have only caused me stress. While I won't completely quit any of the things listed above, I have learned to only participate in things that are necessary or fun. When I'm in the heat of a stressful moment, I must stop and ask myself if something is necessary; if not, in the big picture, will it make me happy? This helps me keep perspective on life and prioritize what's important. My new motto is 'Simplify everything'. And I think it will be a life-long journey to live the simple life.
1.31.2011
Day 23-Favorite vacation
So far my favorite vacation was this past March when we went to San Diego, CA. 'We' included myself, my husband, my parents, my mom's two sisters and my cousin. Even though it was colder than normal when we went, I just loved it there. First of all, I'm a big fan of west coast/southwest architecture, so I loved when we visited the older parts of town. And even though I'm not really into laying out or swimming, I do enjoy visiting the beach. It was just a nice relaxing vacation. And good quality family time. It was our last trip before E was born, so I think fondly of the days when we traveled sans car seat, stroller, play pen, diapers, bottles, etc. etc. etc. Here's some pics from our trip, enjoy!
I don't know what this pier was called, but it was verrrrrrrrryyyyyy long, and we were high above the ocean!
Hubby and me at the zoo!
This was outside of our condo for the week.
At the historic Hotel del Coronado.
I had just gotten my new camera, so I was testing it by taking pics outside the condo. Isn't it pretty?!
I don't know what this pier was called, but it was verrrrrrrrryyyyyy long, and we were high above the ocean!
Hubby and me at the zoo!
This was outside of our condo for the week.
At the historic Hotel del Coronado.
I had just gotten my new camera, so I was testing it by taking pics outside the condo. Isn't it pretty?!
1.30.2011
Day 22-What's in your makeup bag
I used to really be into makeup in high school and college, but over the past couple of years I let it get away from me. Now that I'm a mom I have to be careful to not 'let myself go', so I'm trying to get all gussied up more often. :)
Overall I love MAC makeup. Yes, it's expensive, but it lasts sooooooooo long. And since it's high quality you don't have to use as much as the drugstore brands to get the same effect. Besides, I usually stock up at a local outlet store that sells it for 25-30% less than department stores. So what I normally wear is the following:
Concealer
Liquid Foundation
Powder Foundation
Eyeshadow (which is my favorite part! I love creating new combinations of colors and the different effect they have on my appearance.)
Mascara
I do not like lipstick. Never have. It just feels so dry and cakey. IF I wear something on my lips besides chapstick, it's gloss. And I only wear blush on very rare occasions. Here's a pic so you can see my work ;)
Overall I love MAC makeup. Yes, it's expensive, but it lasts sooooooooo long. And since it's high quality you don't have to use as much as the drugstore brands to get the same effect. Besides, I usually stock up at a local outlet store that sells it for 25-30% less than department stores. So what I normally wear is the following:
Concealer
Liquid Foundation
Powder Foundation
Eyeshadow (which is my favorite part! I love creating new combinations of colors and the different effect they have on my appearance.)
Mascara
I do not like lipstick. Never have. It just feels so dry and cakey. IF I wear something on my lips besides chapstick, it's gloss. And I only wear blush on very rare occasions. Here's a pic so you can see my work ;)
1.29.2011
Day 21-Picture of yourself
Wow, whoever created this challenge thing must be a picture person. Let's see if I can find a recent picture I like...
Well, that was more difficult than I thought. There are only 2-3 pics of me alone since E was born, and I'm not really liking any of them! So I will grace you with a picture of me 7.5 months pregnant, during our trip to San Diego last year:
Well, that was more difficult than I thought. There are only 2-3 pics of me alone since E was born, and I'm not really liking any of them! So I will grace you with a picture of me 7.5 months pregnant, during our trip to San Diego last year:
1.28.2011
Day 20-Nicknames
Let's see, we'll start at the top. My first name is Deanna. Since birth, the majority of my family members have called me 'De-de'. My Dad takes it a step further with 'De-de-bee' or sometimes just 'Bee'. My uncle who died when I was about 11 called me 'De-de-bych'. Don't know how that started, and I really don't remember it. My Grandmother told me that several years later.
In middle/high school most of my friends called me 'Dee'. During college most people referred to me by my real name, with the sporadic 'Dee' here and there.
Occassionally my sorority sisters will refer to me as 'Panty Girl' but that is an inside joke that I will not explain on this blog :)
My hubby and I have many nicknames for each other. He first called me 'Mimi', short for my middle name (Camille). Most days it is 'Babe', but others have included: 'Muffin', 'Muff', 'Muff-butt' and 'Mama'.
I will add, that I've never told family, friends, etc. to call me anything. When I meet new people, I tell them my real name. Should they choose to give me a nickname, I'll usually respond to it. I haven't come across any crazy ones, yet!
In middle/high school most of my friends called me 'Dee'. During college most people referred to me by my real name, with the sporadic 'Dee' here and there.
Occassionally my sorority sisters will refer to me as 'Panty Girl' but that is an inside joke that I will not explain on this blog :)
My hubby and I have many nicknames for each other. He first called me 'Mimi', short for my middle name (Camille). Most days it is 'Babe', but others have included: 'Muffin', 'Muff', 'Muff-butt' and 'Mama'.
I will add, that I've never told family, friends, etc. to call me anything. When I meet new people, I tell them my real name. Should they choose to give me a nickname, I'll usually respond to it. I haven't come across any crazy ones, yet!
1.27.2011
Day 19-Something you miss
Right now? That would be my husband, for sure! He was here over Christmas and left on New Year's Day. So, it's only been about 4 weeks, and we've been apart for longer, but I think most would agree that it's normal to miss your spouse for any amount of separation!
In general, I would say that I miss high school. I was with my HS friends this weekend and we were reminiscing. O.M.G. did we have fun. We were generally good kids - we were involved in extra-curriculars, got good grades and didn't get involved in drugs or other destructive behavior. But we definitely had our moments of mischief. And we were ALWAYS together. We were in all the same classes, played sports and were in the same school clubs. If that wasn't enough we had sleepovers just about every weekend. Those four years really did fly by. And next summer will mark 10 years since we graduated. I can't believe it was that long ago, because it really feels like just yesterday. And yesterday was a good day :)
In general, I would say that I miss high school. I was with my HS friends this weekend and we were reminiscing. O.M.G. did we have fun. We were generally good kids - we were involved in extra-curriculars, got good grades and didn't get involved in drugs or other destructive behavior. But we definitely had our moments of mischief. And we were ALWAYS together. We were in all the same classes, played sports and were in the same school clubs. If that wasn't enough we had sleepovers just about every weekend. Those four years really did fly by. And next summer will mark 10 years since we graduated. I can't believe it was that long ago, because it really feels like just yesterday. And yesterday was a good day :)
1.26.2011
Day 18-Something you regret
Ohhhhh, there are lots of these! I try to live my life without regrets, but I am human - it happens! But one thing I definitely regret is two-fold: I wish I had minored in Spanish and that I had studied abroad.
I took Spanish all four years in high school and for two semesters in college. I would have taken more classes, but I reached the maximum level for language courses - everything else was about art, history, culture, etc. Looking back, I wish I would have just taken the extra 2-3 classes I would have needed to finish a minor. I love the language and well as the cultures of Hispanics around the world. I wanted to study abroad over the summer after my freshman year, but my mom was NOT supportive of that. I'm sure the idea of me being in Mexico or Spain for 2 months was scary, so I don't fault her for being resistant. But I do fault myself for not pursuing it further or doing it during the other two summers of my college years. I was really good at the language, but was at the point that I needed to be immersed in the Spanish-speaking world to become fluent. Now, I'm so far removed from my classes and practice at speaking it, that I would have to start all over again.
I do plan on getting back into it eventually. I started taking classes again at the local university, but it was the summer before my wedding, and I had some work trips scheduled that made it pointless to continue. But one day my friends (or should I say 'Un dia, mis amigos'?) I WILL get back into the language I love, and I WILL be fluent!
I took Spanish all four years in high school and for two semesters in college. I would have taken more classes, but I reached the maximum level for language courses - everything else was about art, history, culture, etc. Looking back, I wish I would have just taken the extra 2-3 classes I would have needed to finish a minor. I love the language and well as the cultures of Hispanics around the world. I wanted to study abroad over the summer after my freshman year, but my mom was NOT supportive of that. I'm sure the idea of me being in Mexico or Spain for 2 months was scary, so I don't fault her for being resistant. But I do fault myself for not pursuing it further or doing it during the other two summers of my college years. I was really good at the language, but was at the point that I needed to be immersed in the Spanish-speaking world to become fluent. Now, I'm so far removed from my classes and practice at speaking it, that I would have to start all over again.
I do plan on getting back into it eventually. I started taking classes again at the local university, but it was the summer before my wedding, and I had some work trips scheduled that made it pointless to continue. But one day my friends (or should I say 'Un dia, mis amigos'?) I WILL get back into the language I love, and I WILL be fluent!
1.25.2011
Day 17-Something you're looking forward to
5.9.2011
E's first birthday. I'm being very optimistic that either we'll make lots of friends in our new city over the next few months OR we'll be able to go home sometime in the weeks after her actual birthday. Because I am ITCHING to plan a party. Although I don't believe in going all out for a baby that won't even remember it, I am an event planner by profession. So I'm going to start planning for a party. I'd rather have details together and not do something, than vice versa. Besides, it will give me something to do during the day, while helping me work on my goal of getting back in touch with my Martha Stewart side. So, trust me, there will be posts with ideas, plans, and most importantly, pics, in the weeks and months to follow. Let the planning begin!
E's first birthday. I'm being very optimistic that either we'll make lots of friends in our new city over the next few months OR we'll be able to go home sometime in the weeks after her actual birthday. Because I am ITCHING to plan a party. Although I don't believe in going all out for a baby that won't even remember it, I am an event planner by profession. So I'm going to start planning for a party. I'd rather have details together and not do something, than vice versa. Besides, it will give me something to do during the day, while helping me work on my goal of getting back in touch with my Martha Stewart side. So, trust me, there will be posts with ideas, plans, and most importantly, pics, in the weeks and months to follow. Let the planning begin!
1.24.2011
Day 16-Dream house
I started to create an elaborate post with lots of pics of my dream home. But, considering we won't be ready to buy for at least another 5-10 years, I honestly haven't thought much of my dream home. Now, I love watching HGTV, especially House Hunters, Property Virgin, My First Place, etc. So I definitely know what I like and don't like. But I haven't actually put time into thinking about what I would want for my first home and/or dream home. Because it's so far down the road, who knows if we'll buy a starter home and work our way up, or if we just wait until we're able to purchase/buy exactly what we want? To me, the most important thing about my home is that my family is there waiting on me.
1.23.2011
Day 15-Bible verse
Woo-hoo! Halfway through the challenge!
Jeremiah 29:11 (New International Version, ©2010)
11 For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.
I love this verse because I am a planner. I like to know my next move in life, and the 12 moves after that. But this reminds me that I don't need to plan everything out, because God has plans for me, which are far better than any plans I have for myself.
1.22.2011
Day 14-A picture you love
Our first professional pic as a family when E was about 5-6 weeks old. Love it!
1.21.2011
Day 13-Goals
I have a lot of goals, so I'll separate this into different categories.
Health:
To lose at least 15 pounds and subsequently maintain a healthy lifestyle. I've lost weight before but I always revert back to bad eating habits and stop working out after reaching my goal. I want to change my attitude from trying to just lose weight to eating healthy and staying active. Now that E is here, I want to be a good example for her. I'm picky about what she eats, and realize that if I change my diet, then it will be easier to wean her to table food, because I won't be making separate meals for her.
Personal:
When I was a kid/teenager, I loved arts and crafts and baking. I want to get back into these hobbies, because they're an easy stress-reliever. Plus, when we move, I think it will help my emotional well-being to have something fun to do by myself. However, I'll have to be careful with the baking, because that could derail me reaching my health goals!
Career:
I want to start my own event-planning business. In college I first learned about the industry and gave myself until the age of 30 to get started. After having worked in meeting/event planning for an association for 3 years, I'm more determined to start my own company. So I've got about 2.75 years left to reach this one ~ the clock is ticking!
Health:
To lose at least 15 pounds and subsequently maintain a healthy lifestyle. I've lost weight before but I always revert back to bad eating habits and stop working out after reaching my goal. I want to change my attitude from trying to just lose weight to eating healthy and staying active. Now that E is here, I want to be a good example for her. I'm picky about what she eats, and realize that if I change my diet, then it will be easier to wean her to table food, because I won't be making separate meals for her.
Personal:
When I was a kid/teenager, I loved arts and crafts and baking. I want to get back into these hobbies, because they're an easy stress-reliever. Plus, when we move, I think it will help my emotional well-being to have something fun to do by myself. However, I'll have to be careful with the baking, because that could derail me reaching my health goals!
Career:
I want to start my own event-planning business. In college I first learned about the industry and gave myself until the age of 30 to get started. After having worked in meeting/event planning for an association for 3 years, I'm more determined to start my own company. So I've got about 2.75 years left to reach this one ~ the clock is ticking!
1.20.2011
Day 12-What you believe
I believe in God.
I believe in Jesus Christ.
I believe in the Holy Spirit.
I believe that Jesus is the son of God and that He died on the cross for our sins. I believe that three days later He rose from the grave. I believe that the Holy Spirit dwells in all Christians to guide us in our spiritual walk, until Jesus comes again.
I believe in Jesus Christ.
I believe in the Holy Spirit.
I believe that Jesus is the son of God and that He died on the cross for our sins. I believe that three days later He rose from the grave. I believe that the Holy Spirit dwells in all Christians to guide us in our spiritual walk, until Jesus comes again.
1.19.2011
Day 11-Favorite tv shows
I'm a TV junkie, and I'm trying to work on cutting back. Buuuuuuuuuttttt, since you asked, here they are!
picture credit
I don't get people that don't like this show. I have found so many similarities in some of the characters with people I used to work with. And I just love Jim and Pam.
picture credit
I think I like this show because it makes me thankful that I had my daughter after graduating high school and college and getting married. I'm so glad I don't have to struggle with school and minimum wage jobs, because just taking care of her is stressful enough.
picture credit
Is it bad that I usually feel hungry when watching this show? :)
And I hate to admit it...
picture credit
Yes, I watch Jersey Shore! I think they are characters and I laugh at it like a sitcom. I do think it's kind of creepy though that Mike and Pauly are hovering around 30. Weird!
Ok, so obviously I'm a reality show addict. There's more shows I watch, but those are the ones I make a point to see every week.
picture creditI don't get people that don't like this show. I have found so many similarities in some of the characters with people I used to work with. And I just love Jim and Pam.
picture credit
I think I like this show because it makes me thankful that I had my daughter after graduating high school and college and getting married. I'm so glad I don't have to struggle with school and minimum wage jobs, because just taking care of her is stressful enough.
picture credit
Is it bad that I usually feel hungry when watching this show? :)
And I hate to admit it...
picture creditYes, I watch Jersey Shore! I think they are characters and I laugh at it like a sitcom. I do think it's kind of creepy though that Mike and Pauly are hovering around 30. Weird!
Ok, so obviously I'm a reality show addict. There's more shows I watch, but those are the ones I make a point to see every week.
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