Yes you read the title correct and it's not a metaphor for anything it's straight up FACT :/
My knees are fat.
So are other parts, i'm not delusional, but really my Knees!!! how does that happen? Does your body say to it's self "whoa there! belly is maxed out, so it her hind end so keep on moving boys, (boys are the cause of fat, i'm sure so therefore for fat will be identified as male) there you go....just a little farther, as others are sure to follow and will surely deposit themselves in her thighs, so it's the knees for you" Really, this has got to be the dialogue that takes place.
Even at my chubbiest i've never really had body image issues. I've always been pretty happy just the way I am. I grew up with 2 heavy set parents. One, my father never seemed to give it much thought. Probably because he was the smallest in his family as they were all really large. My mom on the other hand was "big boned", the product of 2 relatively small people and never seemed happy in her own skin. Ever. :( I even over heard her once tell a friend on the phone "i never wanted to have a girl because i never wanted her to be big like me." Mind you when i overheard this convo I was far from large. As in miles away. Dr.'s used to tell me i needed to gain weight! (can you imagine) If they could see me now & what success i've become! ;p haha
I look at it this way, I'm not the biggest, nor the smallest. I'm me and whatever the size, pound, etc...I am who I am. At no point has my shape, size ever defined me nor do i believe it ever will.
But really? My knees.! ahaha I really have to laugh about it because ...well, frankly i find it amusing. Curiously amusing. What's next? My ankles...thus becoming cankles? And if fat, thick or full ankles are cankles what does that make my fat, thick knees? cknees? (jw)
I came painfully aware of my cknees when the "fat" surrounding my knee cap continued to move once i became idol. really? YES! I was so astonished that i tested what i was feeling, and sure enough ....continued movement. drat! haha
So, as a result of my recent discovery of my cknees and in a attempt to avoid cankles, i have resumed my exercise program: zumba & walking! I'm in search of the day when i wrap up a zumba routine and my cknees STOP moving too! And who knows with luck....the more important result will be achieved....an improved over all health.
You see, God has added one more day to this year to accomplish my goal...it's as though He's said "ok, you just need a bit more time!....you got it! in the form of Feb. 29! Now get to it!" So I'm off on a mission. (& better yet, i'm not alone!)
Hello & goodbye cknees! :)
Thursday, January 5, 2012
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
books
Who here likes to read? Who here enjoys a good laugh? Who here has a sense of humor? ME ME ME.
I must contribute my love of reading to my friend Marsha Vermilion. (shout out!) She's my English/Lit teacher friend who reestablished in me the need for a good read. I explained to her my problem, I need to be hooked right away, and with out much thought or consideration she gave me Fine Things by Danielle Steele. I only know it was by Danielle Steele and remember that for two reasons, 1) i looked to see who the author was & 2) Marsha lent the book to me with a disclaimer that 'she typically wouldn't recommend a Danielle Steele book but that this was good from cover to cover', or something along those lines. And there you have it. I like to read.
My preferred genre seems somewhat all over the place but mostly light hearted. Many of you know for 4 years I worked in a Jr. High setting and with many kids who found reading a challenge. And the occasional teen who actually enjoyed it. Due to my circumstance I began to read books that would appeal to teens and would make my recommendations. So much so that I acquired quite a library of books, primarily for teen girls. In addition my daughter is quite the reader, however she has a tendency to NOT read any of my suggestions. Since I also worked with some boys I would force myself to read "boy stuff" just so I could assist them some too. Again, my son is quite a reader and we have ZERO similarities in our preferred taste in books. ho hum. It's all really ironic that my kids and I don't share the same taste in books, as it was my initial panic that someday I'll have raised an illiterate kid, one who detests books and who will inevitably suffer through school/college because they hated to read. Whew, crisis averted!
After having left the school (happy day) I continued my teen genre but soon realized I had zero to converse about with friends who were readers and therefore it was time to move on.
On to my grown up reading. As I'm blogging about this I'm desperately trying to remember the first 'adult' read. All though the title escapes me, I remember being shocked by the adult content. ...remember i'd been in "G" mode for some time. :) And then one day while walking with my girlfriend Heather Nestleroad something I said made her chuckle and she commented that I reminded her of an author she has read, Jen Lancaster, and that I should read her books. Ironically, later that week Ms. Lancaster was on the Today show promoting her current (at the time) memoir, My Fair Lazy and as they say the rest is history. I began with book one, if you will, Bitter Is The New Black, and consequently followed it up with the remaining 4: Bright Lights, Big Ass, Such A Pretty Fat, Pretty in Plaid, and My Fair Lazy. I was hooked from the first line. YAY as that is what it takes for me. She has also completed a novel, If You Were Here and it too provided great reading enjoyment. For my between books Jen Lancaster fix I follow her blog at Jennsylvania.com. An 80's girl, home grown - 1984 Huntington North grad, who tends to say what many think she's sure to make you chuckle. And If you too are an 80's chick who couldn't wait for the next John Hughes movie, her books are a must read.
In addition to the above mentioned author, I've also read some of her book suggestions and so far so good. Good Enough to Eat, by Stacey Ballis is just one of her recommendations and I to will recommend it. It's light hearted read and certainly provided chuckles. Karyn Bosnak is also quite enjoyable. Twenty Times A Lady was made into a movie (What's Your Number) and Save Karyn is oh so relate-able and will leave you wondering "why didn't I think of that". Currently I'm reading With A Little Luck by Caprice Crane. As I am only on chapter 4 a thorough review is unavailable, however, so far so good!
I call the above books and suggested read from Lancaster 'chick flick' books. They're entertaining and relate-able on some level. There's humor for sure so if you're void of any, (odd that you're here) so you might ignore all my suggestions and still with the daily newspaper.
On occasion I'll venture into the Historical Fiction genre. I love medieval reads, anything to do with the Salem Witch trials and the Holocaust. Want a suggestion or have one to share just let me know.
After mom passed I read Heaven is For Real. Comforting, encouraging and hopeful the book really brought life and death into perspective for me. If you've lost a loved one this is a must read.
I enjoy quick, light hearted reads that make me smile and laugh and even on occasion shed a tear. And if it isn't apparent to you yet I mostly enjoy the laughter. So, if you're in search of a chuckle, and wonder where to begin, reread paragraph 5 and start with book 1. Keep in mind...a sense of humor is required.
HAPPY READING
I must contribute my love of reading to my friend Marsha Vermilion. (shout out!) She's my English/Lit teacher friend who reestablished in me the need for a good read. I explained to her my problem, I need to be hooked right away, and with out much thought or consideration she gave me Fine Things by Danielle Steele. I only know it was by Danielle Steele and remember that for two reasons, 1) i looked to see who the author was & 2) Marsha lent the book to me with a disclaimer that 'she typically wouldn't recommend a Danielle Steele book but that this was good from cover to cover', or something along those lines. And there you have it. I like to read.
My preferred genre seems somewhat all over the place but mostly light hearted. Many of you know for 4 years I worked in a Jr. High setting and with many kids who found reading a challenge. And the occasional teen who actually enjoyed it. Due to my circumstance I began to read books that would appeal to teens and would make my recommendations. So much so that I acquired quite a library of books, primarily for teen girls. In addition my daughter is quite the reader, however she has a tendency to NOT read any of my suggestions. Since I also worked with some boys I would force myself to read "boy stuff" just so I could assist them some too. Again, my son is quite a reader and we have ZERO similarities in our preferred taste in books. ho hum. It's all really ironic that my kids and I don't share the same taste in books, as it was my initial panic that someday I'll have raised an illiterate kid, one who detests books and who will inevitably suffer through school/college because they hated to read. Whew, crisis averted!
After having left the school (happy day) I continued my teen genre but soon realized I had zero to converse about with friends who were readers and therefore it was time to move on.
On to my grown up reading. As I'm blogging about this I'm desperately trying to remember the first 'adult' read. All though the title escapes me, I remember being shocked by the adult content. ...remember i'd been in "G" mode for some time. :) And then one day while walking with my girlfriend Heather Nestleroad something I said made her chuckle and she commented that I reminded her of an author she has read, Jen Lancaster, and that I should read her books. Ironically, later that week Ms. Lancaster was on the Today show promoting her current (at the time) memoir, My Fair Lazy and as they say the rest is history. I began with book one, if you will, Bitter Is The New Black, and consequently followed it up with the remaining 4: Bright Lights, Big Ass, Such A Pretty Fat, Pretty in Plaid, and My Fair Lazy. I was hooked from the first line. YAY as that is what it takes for me. She has also completed a novel, If You Were Here and it too provided great reading enjoyment. For my between books Jen Lancaster fix I follow her blog at Jennsylvania.com. An 80's girl, home grown - 1984 Huntington North grad, who tends to say what many think she's sure to make you chuckle. And If you too are an 80's chick who couldn't wait for the next John Hughes movie, her books are a must read.
In addition to the above mentioned author, I've also read some of her book suggestions and so far so good. Good Enough to Eat, by Stacey Ballis is just one of her recommendations and I to will recommend it. It's light hearted read and certainly provided chuckles. Karyn Bosnak is also quite enjoyable. Twenty Times A Lady was made into a movie (What's Your Number) and Save Karyn is oh so relate-able and will leave you wondering "why didn't I think of that". Currently I'm reading With A Little Luck by Caprice Crane. As I am only on chapter 4 a thorough review is unavailable, however, so far so good!
I call the above books and suggested read from Lancaster 'chick flick' books. They're entertaining and relate-able on some level. There's humor for sure so if you're void of any, (odd that you're here) so you might ignore all my suggestions and still with the daily newspaper.
On occasion I'll venture into the Historical Fiction genre. I love medieval reads, anything to do with the Salem Witch trials and the Holocaust. Want a suggestion or have one to share just let me know.
After mom passed I read Heaven is For Real. Comforting, encouraging and hopeful the book really brought life and death into perspective for me. If you've lost a loved one this is a must read.
I enjoy quick, light hearted reads that make me smile and laugh and even on occasion shed a tear. And if it isn't apparent to you yet I mostly enjoy the laughter. So, if you're in search of a chuckle, and wonder where to begin, reread paragraph 5 and start with book 1. Keep in mind...a sense of humor is required.
HAPPY READING
Monday, January 2, 2012
wrap up
Well the Holiday season came & went. That just about sums it up really. No pomp and very little holiday cheer if you will. Many friends, acquaintances stopped me to inquire if I ever got around to putting up a tree. Yes, 3 days before the big day.
Really since July 22nd my mind has been foggy yet reflective, my heart broken yet beating and my world...well it didn't crumble. It changed. It shifted. Not like our current president "change" but good & necessary change. Some of you might wonder how I could begin to classify the change brought about by the passing of my mother good. Well, it's really rather simple. She's no longer in pain. She no longer is confined by her disabilities. She is no longer alone. But for me, most importantly she cartwheeled all the way through the pearly gates. That I am sure of.
The necessary aspect of change brought about in my world since this summer has been the personal transformation that I seem to be experiencing. It's on going. As it has 45 years of walls, habits, attitudes, etc that need broken down, tweaked, adjusted and built back up. Probably the most apparent aspect of this life that I needed to work on, focus on is the simplicity of what is expected from me. (from all of us really.) I've realized I needed to declutter, if you will MANY areas of my existence. Practice what I preach to my kids. You know the whole "do unto others...." concept. I needed to rid my self from negativity which is for sure a work in progress as IT IS EVERYWHERE and so easily creeps into conversations, attitudes, etc.... My focus has been on the Lord and being kind. It's all really that simple.
With those things as my focus I've experienced improved relations with my own family, immediate & extended, and with friends. I smile more (didn't really think that was possible) and make it a point to pass it along to others. It's simple but it feels good, ...to all involved. I've come to trust in the Lord and the fact that his timing is perfect. And give Him props for all the comfort I've received. When you feel it, the comfort, TRULY feel it, when you're all alone, you know with out a doubt you are in His arms. *sigh*
As the new year begins I am still amidst several loose ends. With moms passing my brother & I inherited her 2 properties. For those of you counting that brings my house total to 4. That's right 4! I really only want 1. :) Both Amboy & Swayzee are listed for sale. However if I get my way, Swayzee will come off the market until all interior projects are finished. (oh the life of a wife of a do-it-your-selfer...ugh!) We're still intending on moving, and would love to be able to do so within the next 3 mos. or so. Feel free to send up a prayer for patience and a buyer as we continue through this journey. It is my hope that my brother and his wife will be able to move into moms. It's would be great to keep it in the family. That just seems right. And I'd love for them to really make it their own. That house has some really neat aspects and great potential. Prayers for them that it all works out.
We are yet to meet with an endocrinologist for Kathryn. She had her gallbladder removed in November and pathology indicated she is high risk for Thyroid Cancer...a really rare form of it. So once again prayers for her are greatly appreciated. Again props to God, as had she not had the surgery, and pathology test we never would've known the risk. His timing is perfect as is His plan.
Over the holiday break the greatest bless has just been my family. Although we tend to venture off into our own spaces and since Christmas electronics have consumed us, we are TOGETHER. And really that's what matters. We had Christmas eve as usually with my in-laws and shared not only good food but laughs. (priceless) and returned to their home again on Christmas day after Church services. The following friday was spent with my brother & his kids, minus one :( and again good food, laughter & memories. It was all pretty simple yet splendid at the same time.
Obviously this was the first year I had to decorate graves. I only tended to moms and grandma & grandpas. I did something different from what mom would've done. I'm sure it was no surprise to her. ;P It was a season with out mom. No open house, no insane amount of decorating, crafts, and panic for it "not all getting done!" What got done got done. It was different. It was simple. It wasn't about any one of us....It was about the birth of a newborn King. This year I was truly reflective on that. This year i was truly appreciative of my family and friends. This year there was change and it was good.
As 2012 is upon us I challenge you to live simply, and to simply live. Share a smile, make a new friend, be a friend, share some kindness. This year BElieve THEre is GOOD in the world. A positive change can change the world and it can start with you. Also, if you don't know Him....I challenge you to seek & find & get to know Him.
He's waiting.
Happy 2012. Love to you all & blessing all the year long.
Really since July 22nd my mind has been foggy yet reflective, my heart broken yet beating and my world...well it didn't crumble. It changed. It shifted. Not like our current president "change" but good & necessary change. Some of you might wonder how I could begin to classify the change brought about by the passing of my mother good. Well, it's really rather simple. She's no longer in pain. She no longer is confined by her disabilities. She is no longer alone. But for me, most importantly she cartwheeled all the way through the pearly gates. That I am sure of.
The necessary aspect of change brought about in my world since this summer has been the personal transformation that I seem to be experiencing. It's on going. As it has 45 years of walls, habits, attitudes, etc that need broken down, tweaked, adjusted and built back up. Probably the most apparent aspect of this life that I needed to work on, focus on is the simplicity of what is expected from me. (from all of us really.) I've realized I needed to declutter, if you will MANY areas of my existence. Practice what I preach to my kids. You know the whole "do unto others...." concept. I needed to rid my self from negativity which is for sure a work in progress as IT IS EVERYWHERE and so easily creeps into conversations, attitudes, etc.... My focus has been on the Lord and being kind. It's all really that simple.
With those things as my focus I've experienced improved relations with my own family, immediate & extended, and with friends. I smile more (didn't really think that was possible) and make it a point to pass it along to others. It's simple but it feels good, ...to all involved. I've come to trust in the Lord and the fact that his timing is perfect. And give Him props for all the comfort I've received. When you feel it, the comfort, TRULY feel it, when you're all alone, you know with out a doubt you are in His arms. *sigh*
As the new year begins I am still amidst several loose ends. With moms passing my brother & I inherited her 2 properties. For those of you counting that brings my house total to 4. That's right 4! I really only want 1. :) Both Amboy & Swayzee are listed for sale. However if I get my way, Swayzee will come off the market until all interior projects are finished. (oh the life of a wife of a do-it-your-selfer...ugh!) We're still intending on moving, and would love to be able to do so within the next 3 mos. or so. Feel free to send up a prayer for patience and a buyer as we continue through this journey. It is my hope that my brother and his wife will be able to move into moms. It's would be great to keep it in the family. That just seems right. And I'd love for them to really make it their own. That house has some really neat aspects and great potential. Prayers for them that it all works out.
We are yet to meet with an endocrinologist for Kathryn. She had her gallbladder removed in November and pathology indicated she is high risk for Thyroid Cancer...a really rare form of it. So once again prayers for her are greatly appreciated. Again props to God, as had she not had the surgery, and pathology test we never would've known the risk. His timing is perfect as is His plan.
Over the holiday break the greatest bless has just been my family. Although we tend to venture off into our own spaces and since Christmas electronics have consumed us, we are TOGETHER. And really that's what matters. We had Christmas eve as usually with my in-laws and shared not only good food but laughs. (priceless) and returned to their home again on Christmas day after Church services. The following friday was spent with my brother & his kids, minus one :( and again good food, laughter & memories. It was all pretty simple yet splendid at the same time.
Obviously this was the first year I had to decorate graves. I only tended to moms and grandma & grandpas. I did something different from what mom would've done. I'm sure it was no surprise to her. ;P It was a season with out mom. No open house, no insane amount of decorating, crafts, and panic for it "not all getting done!" What got done got done. It was different. It was simple. It wasn't about any one of us....It was about the birth of a newborn King. This year I was truly reflective on that. This year i was truly appreciative of my family and friends. This year there was change and it was good.
As 2012 is upon us I challenge you to live simply, and to simply live. Share a smile, make a new friend, be a friend, share some kindness. This year BElieve THEre is GOOD in the world. A positive change can change the world and it can start with you. Also, if you don't know Him....I challenge you to seek & find & get to know Him.
He's waiting.
Happy 2012. Love to you all & blessing all the year long.
