tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-78942315797239037382024-03-20T02:59:59.704-04:00lovemeganalexisAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09103656471132528417noreply@blogger.comBlogger14125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7894231579723903738.post-63937469310217113762015-03-16T10:57:00.002-04:002015-03-16T11:00:53.134-04:00god is working.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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So if you recall, I mentioned in a <a href="http://lovemeganalexis.blogspot.com/2014/12/im-kinda-lonely.html" target="_blank">previous blog post</a> how difficult it is for me to be alone. I love people. I love being around people. I get my energy from people. Many folks would consider me to be "outgoing". But sometimes I am more reserved and worry what others may think and say about me, so my outgoing-ness doesn't show. </div>
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I recently heard a sermon about Jesus being led by the Spirit into the desert. You can find the scripture in <u><a href="https://www.biblegateway.com/passage/?search=Luke+4&version=MSG" target="_blank">Luke 4</a></u>. I encourage you to check out the sermon <u>here.{I'll post the link when it's online}</u></div>
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In my Bible, the text above the bulk of the message says "Tested by the Devil".</div>
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The scripture talks about Jesus being led into the wilderness {desert}by the Spirit, and being tested by the Devil for forty days and forty nights.</div>
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The Devil tempts Jesus with food.</div>
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The Devil tempts Jesus with control and power.</div>
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The Devil tempts Jesus with personal recognition.</div>
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I've heard and read this hundreds of times. But Saturday night was the first time I ever saw the whole picture.</div>
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Sure the story teaches me that Jesus was tempted just like I am, so it allows me to relate to him on another level which is always a good thing. But it also shows me the type of devotion, discipline, and desires of Jesus.</div>
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Jesus went into the desert to contemplate, reflect, to pause. To BE STILL and know God. I hate being alone. I hate solitude. But when life gets cray cray and chaotic...that's when I know it's time to go to the desert.</div>
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I wouldn't exactly call this season of life a desert. Noah and I are getting a pretty good routine down, I'm learning how to THRIVE {not just survive} on much less, and God is really using this time to use me, teach me, and push me out of my comfort zone.</div>
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God gave me an amazing opportunity to serve yesterday in the heart of the ghetto in our town. As I walked up to our gathering place, there were people of all shapes, sizes, colors, backgrounds, clothes, cleanliness, and mental health walking there with me. </div>
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A meal was served that may be their only meal for several days. There were beggars, homeless kids, even a couple prostitutes. As they came down the line to get their plates you can smell where they've been. Trash, maybe a little alcohol. I had fear for a split second. </div>
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Fear of being mugged. Fear of taking my child around "these people". I imagined what I would do if I saw them on the street. Would I still shake their hand and pour love onto them? What if someone found out? And scorn me for putting myself in danger?</div>
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Then the Spirit told me He was with me. I was the hands and feet of Jesus.</div>
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A similar situation went down in college. It was the day before Thanksgiving break, it was pouring down cats and dogs, and I was closing down the office, locking up, etc. What appeared to be a student came up to the desk and asked me for a ride. I asked him where he lived, and it was on the way home from work towards my house. So I said sure. He got in the car with me, and I took him home. I was anxious the ENTIRE time, we made light conversation, I dropped him off, and he asked me for my phone number. I gave it to him. Then went home.</div>
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I got home and felt great about my good deed, so I told family and they totally freaked out on me. I was so confused. Didn't Jesus say "love the least of these"? And the greatest commandment next to loving God is loving your neighbor as yourself? </div>
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They said "Yes, <b>but</b>"</div>
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*you could've been raped</div>
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*he could've had a knife</div>
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*you might have never made it home</div>
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So I went to my room and cried for a couple hours. My heart was hurting for disappointing so many people when I thought I was doing what God had called me to do. </div>
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There's no room for "Yes, <b>but</b>" with God. Check out Luke 9:57-62:</div>
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Jesus said to a man, "Follow me." </div>
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The man said, "Yes, but let me first go and bury my father." </div>
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Another said, "I'm ready to follow you, Master, but let me first say farewell to those at my home."</div>
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Jesus said, "No procrastination. No backward looks. You can't put God's kingdom off till tomorrow. Seize the day." Another version says "No man, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back,<i> is fit for the kingdom of God</i>."</div>
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WOW. I'm worried about disappointing family, friends, strangers, whomever. I can't allow that to be above what my Savior thinks of me.</div>
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So when God calls me to put myself what others may view as a dangerous situation, He's there. So yes to a human mind, I could have been raped, killed, beaten, whatever the case may be. But God did not allow that to happen. He protected me so I COULD SERVE THE LEAST OF THESE in His name!</div>
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He protected me when I was in Peru during riots and bombings. He protected me from sickness and being mugged in downtown Budapest. He protected me from getting hurt by a stranger when I took him home. And He protects me wherever I go. </div>
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It's not easy to follow Jesus. He might lead you to situations or things that make you feel uncomfortable. That will make other people look at you like you are crazy. </div>
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That's when you know you are doing it right.</div>
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xoxo</div>
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Megan<br />
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PS-I've really been digging this worship song:<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09103656471132528417noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7894231579723903738.post-1047627746999941432015-02-03T10:40:00.001-05:002015-02-03T10:40:12.423-05:00being a mom is no picnic<br />
Here is a text I sent one of my best friends today:<br />
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For a little context, Noah is teething hardcore. He is cutting TWO teeth. Sounds exciting right? Oooo he will be able to eat real food soon. Woohoo. But no. Teeth are no fun. If you ever hear a mom say that their child is teething, you should automatically give her a break. In fact, give her a hug, more coffee, and some chocolate. She needs all the help she can get. Because teething isn't just getting teeth.<br />
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It's an unpredictable schedule.<br />
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It's no sleeping.<br />
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Or it's a little bit of sleep here and there but you never get that good sleep where you actually feel rested.<br />
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It's fighting with your spouse over really really really silly things.<br />
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It's getting nothing done around the house.<br />
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It's feeling like a failure.<br />
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So after wallowing in my sorrows for an hour or so and googling words like "failure" "first time mom" and "teething", I've learned that I am not alone in these feelings of failing. Moms thinking they are failing is actually pretty common. Let me be more specific in my "failures" so far this week:<br />
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-I screwed up mashed potatoes. WHAT?! I make my own bread, and tortillas, and pretzels for Christ's sake! And I've made mashed potatoes hundreds of times. But last night for some reason I put way too much milk in. And I cried about it. I made two perfectly seared t-bone steaks and roasted asparagus but I CRIED OVER MASHED POTATOES. It sounds silly. But I am telling you, at the time it was the end of the world.<br />
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-I didn't finish the laundry yesterday. I wanted to get all the towels, bibs, jammies, and The Hubs work clothes all done and folded and ready for the week. HAHAHA. I got<i> maybe</i> two loads of laundry washed and folded.<br />
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-I burned several tortillas. I was trying to get tortillas done before Noah woke up from his nap ready to eat lunch, but he wasn't having that.<br />
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-There are dishes EVERYWHERE. I have a big kitchen with <u>plenty</u> of counter space. Every inch is covered right now. #ew<br />
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But you know what? It feels quite good to make a list of these failures and realize how silly they sound. I have an 8 month old unpredictable child who is teething.<br />
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I need to give myself a break.<br />
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I ate a healthy lunch.<br />
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I made tortillas. FROM SCRATCH.<br />
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I cooked my family a delicious meal. Yeah the mashed potatoes were inedible, but I was on my feet for most of the day yesterday working hard. I still got some laundry done, and I will get the dishes done eventually. We do not buy paper plates so I'll get desperate enough I'm sure. lol.<br />
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In other news, today is day 30 of the Bikini Body Mommy Challenge 3.0. I will weigh-in and take my measurements. I'm hoping to share how the journey has been thus far later this week. I definitely feel better, and I'm looking forward to the progress I have made thus far.<br />
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It's been a heaven of a week....and it's only Tuesday!<br />
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xoxo<br />
Megan<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09103656471132528417noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7894231579723903738.post-15321698002305753332015-01-23T10:06:00.000-05:002015-01-23T10:06:36.469-05:00happy<br />
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I'm probably jinxing myself, but I can finally say I am in a place of happiness. I don't believe that the goal of life is to necessarily pursue happiness, as I think pursuing God is way more important.With that being said, no one complains when God gives them an extra dose of happy in life.<br />
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Having a job that has a lot of alone time has taught me a few things:<br />
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*I am not in control, there's someone much bigger than me making all of this happen.<br />
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*Hard sh!t makes you stronger. Two dead batteries in our cars, a teething baby, surprise hospital bills...at the time, I thought each of those things were the end of the world. So much crying and uncertainty. But just like gold is refined in a fire, I believe we are refined by the difficult times in our lives.<br />
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*YOLO---I am not saying this as an excuse to eat whatever I want and do whatever I want. YOU DO ONLY LIVE ONCE. So I am going to treat this body, this <b>temple</b> the way I think God wanted me too. Eating well, getting off my couch, and killing other people with kindness.<br />
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*Being a mom is tough. Showering more than 2x a week is a challenge. I no longer judge those yoga-pant loving mommies. The old me deeply apologizes. I had NO idea how difficult being a mom was. I used to say "I'm not going to let myself go when I have kids." Someone should have slapped me. I haven't "let myself go". My priorities have just changed. And I am thankful. I was and probably still am an extremely superficial person.<br />
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*<b>PLANS WILL CHANGE</b>----<b>AND THAT'S OKAY. </b>This is probably the best thing that I've learned. I hate change. I have obsessive compulsive disorder. So it's natural for a change in routine to make me go insane. Even something as simple as having to use milk instead of half/half in my coffee can bring me to tears. But so many things this year have NOT gone according to plan, that I am learning to just deal with it.<br />
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I've recently become obsessed with TV shows about Alaska. Especially Alaskan Bush People. I admire the way their family works, I admire their imagination, I admire the fact that they can make something from nothing. I admire that they don't know what an iPhone is. My favorite quote so far from Billy--the dad, is "Drop a tree on us and we'll make firewood."<br />
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Just imagine not using Google for every single question we have. I mean, really. I use Google a LOT. Recipes, trying to find out that one guy from that one show, how to start a garden, etc.<br />
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There's nothing necessarily wrong with Googling all the things...I love the internet for that. I just worry that I'm trading my creativity and imagination for a Pinterest-perfect closet and home. My mom always told me to "just be yourself". I've also been told that I am incredibly weird. We are all weird in our own ways...and I really fear that being online too much is going to take that weirdness and just make us all the same.<br />
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I want to start figuring things out on my own. Figure out how to build things, play more music, and use this brain in my head for more than typing something in a search bar. I didn't mean for this to turn into a full on rant...whoops.<br />
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So ANYWAYS. Things are going well. And we are having fun.<br />
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xoxo<br />
Megan<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09103656471132528417noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7894231579723903738.post-52677358286757887692015-01-19T09:55:00.001-05:002015-01-19T09:55:02.278-05:00food prep: clean ranch dressing<br />
Goooooooooood Monday morning to you beautiful faces. We just got back from VA visiting family, and had a great time! While I was gone, I had a few people ask me for my homemade ranch recipe. I wouldn't say I have perfected it just yet, but it is pretty darn good.<br />
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So without further ado, here is my ranch recipe.<br />
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If my husband had to choose one thing to take with him on a desert island....it would probably be ranch. He is a ranch FANATIC. Ranch with salads, ranch with breadsticks, ranch with BBQ chicken, and even with pizza.<br />
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Being the typical Americans we are, we <strike>buy</strike> bought Hidden Valley Ranch. It's the original, the best, the bomb-diggity of the ranch world. Kraft tries to keep up, but nothing beats a bottle of Hidden Valley.<br />
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However, once you flip over that beautiful bottle of buttermilk goodness, you will see why I begin to lose my appetite.<br />
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MSG, modified food starch, "natural flavors", and artificial flavors. YUMMY.</div>
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There are cleaner versions out there, organic even. But they are often more expensive and I already have all the ingredients to make my own.</div>
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For this "clean ranch" recipe, you will need:</div>
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*1 cup of mayo</div>
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*2/3 cup buttermilk</div>
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*1/4 teaspoon white vinegar</div>
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*1 teaspoon parsley</div>
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*1/8 teaspoon dill weed</div>
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*1/4 teaspoon garlic powder</div>
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*1/4 teaspoon onion powder</div>
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*1 1/2 teaspoon dried chives</div>
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*1/8 teaspoon black pepper</div>
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*1/4 teaspoon seasoned salt</div>
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*1/8 teaspoon dry or ground mustard</div>
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I typically do NOT have buttermilk on hand, so I just add a tablespoon of vinegar or lemon juice to 2/3 cup of milk and let it sit for 10 minutes.</div>
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Now, forgive me as I do not have any cool pictures just yet, but as I make more ranch I will add them!</div>
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First you will want to whisk together the mayo and buttermilk. Then add in all spices along with the vinegar, and continue to stir. I find that it works best to prepare this ranch ahead of time to allow the flavors to blend together. So maybe make this recipe as soon as you get home from work, and then by the time dinner rolls around it will be perfect. </div>
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The mayo we currently have is not "clean". I recently purchased a new cookbook, "Nom Nom Paleo", which includes a mayo recipe that I will be trying when we run out of Hellman's. I will keep you updated!</div>
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Enjoy!</div>
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xoxo</div>
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Megan</div>
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*******recipe adapted from ourbestbites.com</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09103656471132528417noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7894231579723903738.post-35359583255533816582015-01-14T07:55:00.000-05:002015-01-14T07:55:09.732-05:00time flies when you are having fun...er...have a teething baby<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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^{They are becoming BFFs. But not even 2 seconds after this picture was taken, Flynn heard a noise, ran to the door, and knocked Noah over. Flynn is ridiculously clumsy.}<br />
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Noah has kind of been....a baby lately. I realize he is actually a baby, but he has been pretty easy to take care of. Which he should be considering how awful the pregnancy and birth was getting him here. They are becoming BFFs. But not even 2 seconds after this picture was taken, Flynn heard a noise, ran to the door, and knocked Noah over. Flynn is ridiculously clumsy.<br />
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But lately he's been crankier. And cries a LOT more. It takes a toll on me. It makes it harder to have a clean house. It makes it nearly impossible to have any sanity left.<br />
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I think he has a tooth coming in.<br />
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It may not <i>sound</i> like that big of a deal...but any parents out there going through these trials will definitely here me when I say: BRING ON THE BOURBON.<br />
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Not just to rub on his gums, but also for the parents.<br />
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Now I haven't actually tried the whiskey/bourbon on the gums trick, as I am saving it for when things REALLY get bad. Like 2-3 teeth coming in at once bad. For now I make sure he has a million things to chew on at any given moment, drop whatever I am doing to bring him comfort, and just cuddle for dayyyyyyyyys. Sometimes the cuddling doesn't help though. Then I just have a baby screaming in my ear.<br />
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Side note: I realize the whole "alcohol on gums" thing is controversial. I realize it's not for everyone. I know some mommies get REALLY defensive about why it's bad, etc. But it worked for my parents, my grandparents, and probably their parents. So if nothing else seems to help the screaming baby, you can bet your bottom dollar I am going to try it.<br />
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And while we are on the topic of parenting....can I just let those without kids or mommy facebook groups and whatever the hell I've gotten myself into in on a little secret? THE PARENTING WORLD CAN BE REALLY MEAN.<br />
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There are some people who pop out a kid and then think they are like experts on errrrything. "Don't do this because xyz" "Do this because abc." I just want to reach through the computer and slap them sometimes. DUDE. NO ONE REALLY KNOWS WHAT THEY ARE DOING. WE JUST DO WHAT WORKS.<br />
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Yeah I do my research before I make a decision on how to parent. So don't worry, I'll do me, and you do you. Why do you care if I breastfeed or formula feed? Why do you care if I let my son CIO for 10-15 minutes before bed? Why do you care if I put cereal in his bottle?<br />
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Women struggle enough with self-doubt. I ask myself some of these same questions. I am not perfect, but I am also not stupid. And I can't believe how many women I have seen *gasp* at something another mommy does. All kids are different so what works for one may not work for another.<br />
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All you mommies out there---please know that you are awesome. If you are breastfeeding, that is wonderful. I know how hard it is to be a milk factory 24/7. If you are formula feeding, that is also wonderful. I know how hard it can be to wonder if you are doing the right thing. I wanted to breastfeed. I tried for a couple months. But between postpartum depression and an inverted nipple, ultimately formula has been what is best for Noah and I. {No these aren't excuses. These are <u>reasons</u>.}<br />
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If you co-sleep, that is awesome! I am glad it works for you. I couldn't even have Noah in the same room as me in the bassinet. Every little sound woke me up. So he has been in his own room in his crib from nearly day 1.<br />
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If you put cereal in your baby's bottle at night because you are tired and want a full night's rest, please know I hear you girlfriend. Our grandma's and mom's did it. And I was hesitant at first. Because I am afraid of what other people think. I was so scared that someone in a mommy facebook group would find out and talk about me. But then I decided I would much rather have more sleep than lose another minute worrying about what they thought.<br />
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Point is, this mommying thing can be really hard. I mean, anyone who knows me knows that I am incredibly indecisive. It's an anxiety thing. I am ultimately afraid of making the "wrong" choice. Even parking. When I was learning how to drive, my stepdad would put me to the ultimate test and not talk while I was driving. I would ask him where to turn, where to park, etc. And he would look at me and say, "I don't know. You're the driver." But I was so afraid that if I turned right when he wanted me to turn left that I would disappoint him. I do this with EVERYTHING. So imagine my delight when now I have to co-make all the decisions for a tiny human.<br />
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I am <strike>probably</strike> not doing it all right. But we are doing alright. This too shall pass.<br />
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Thanks for following along.<br />
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xoxo<br />
Megan<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09103656471132528417noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7894231579723903738.post-73764587274857924162015-01-07T09:12:00.002-05:002015-01-07T09:13:52.700-05:00food prep: shredded chickenAnother way we <strike>survive</strike> thrive as a one-income family is by prepping food in advance. An easy food to pre-make and freeze is shredded chicken.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLbzLv__0Ngb1Uqdmgb4oYWcZNY7OWURhyphenhyphenKBJM-pUpbkFncS1GUp2yMWy8Ad27riqLDIRhlHBYJkxfPt4VDJEI7cqmleBtuDk3dCqVZwXP7UDDzaEL5x2rqoG0MgusbrSe4R5h3W6G05ft/s1600/pulled+chicken.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLbzLv__0Ngb1Uqdmgb4oYWcZNY7OWURhyphenhyphenKBJM-pUpbkFncS1GUp2yMWy8Ad27riqLDIRhlHBYJkxfPt4VDJEI7cqmleBtuDk3dCqVZwXP7UDDzaEL5x2rqoG0MgusbrSe4R5h3W6G05ft/s1600/pulled+chicken.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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When I first saw this bag of "grilled and ready" pulled chicken breast, I was taken aback. Why in the heck would you ever buy this? It's literally pre-shredded chicken breasts. How hard is it to get a raw chicken breast, cook it, and shred it?! LET ME TELL YOU:</div>
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IT'S NOT.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVMYGC30qQvmk875zymjhZP__XfFEK22HMVa-bewoKBqvCzQTIrISEYMW0R4s8iV6xmtf51_fIQBdL0v4E-GUWS_jVLkVaqOJsbBhC63GBE8R8F5OeBY9O5089vXofGsSYkQkTIb77xOlI/s1600/IMG_9136.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVMYGC30qQvmk875zymjhZP__XfFEK22HMVa-bewoKBqvCzQTIrISEYMW0R4s8iV6xmtf51_fIQBdL0v4E-GUWS_jVLkVaqOJsbBhC63GBE8R8F5OeBY9O5089vXofGsSYkQkTIb77xOlI/s1600/IMG_9136.JPG" /></a></div>
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Okay so mine may not be as pretty or as colorful as Tyson's, I'll give them that. But it only has ingredients in it that I WANT. Not all of these:</div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #333333; font-family: Arial; font-size: 11px; text-align: start;">Boneless, skinless chicken breast with rib meat, water, contains 2% or less chicken broth, chicken fat, dried chicken, flavoring, lemon juice concentrate, maltodextrin, rice four, salt, sunflower oil, yeast extract.</span></div>
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Okay some of these may be harmless, but why is there <u>dried chicken</u> in chicken breast? And could we elaborate on this "flavoring"? Hmmmmm</div>
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My recipe for shredded chicken is quite simple. Coconut oil, garlic powder, onion powder, dried onion, and chicken.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIUyRXHnMo1RZ-q4s0JL45D_0H1aqrNKdeTb5ZBszkIzEHNmV2bxvsKERex145IR1q2-F_l0D9f-RhFX8jZHqqepUUGCuqu-FP6Ybr8V94GsTkZb4PrPhfXPh11KweZLS2S-gA9s4xzABk/s1600/IMG_0055.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIUyRXHnMo1RZ-q4s0JL45D_0H1aqrNKdeTb5ZBszkIzEHNmV2bxvsKERex145IR1q2-F_l0D9f-RhFX8jZHqqepUUGCuqu-FP6Ybr8V94GsTkZb4PrPhfXPh11KweZLS2S-gA9s4xzABk/s1600/IMG_0055.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not sure why there's an angle...*dramatic effect*</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgziiA5KXsxF25GuTZV2AM-kY6zSzZXJXHsmOifX6pKWHt6SIfxCCZZHaYSa4WlqPBs0pftvHofh1rc3x_3La9612eFUTipCR2HcGfJ1EQOMzXIR4TA6kzf9leIhNw_PrTsGFGVl4HavcbH/s1600/IMG_0058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgziiA5KXsxF25GuTZV2AM-kY6zSzZXJXHsmOifX6pKWHt6SIfxCCZZHaYSa4WlqPBs0pftvHofh1rc3x_3La9612eFUTipCR2HcGfJ1EQOMzXIR4TA6kzf9leIhNw_PrTsGFGVl4HavcbH/s1600/IMG_0058.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I prefer fresh chicken from the farmer's market but whatevs, this was on sale.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_y6TiEbkJsVCC966H2QQqLv3EY5R3Ne0HcGfgphoZVH0mWRjYclut_x2_tdJETg3N44GsBWmebbVfvUuoSoh1NAWvIyAmv9sT88ZQVWipZKaNAsZGBhgTBgj4QD1Js9vHrfgi0La5go0m/s1600/IMG_0086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_y6TiEbkJsVCC966H2QQqLv3EY5R3Ne0HcGfgphoZVH0mWRjYclut_x2_tdJETg3N44GsBWmebbVfvUuoSoh1NAWvIyAmv9sT88ZQVWipZKaNAsZGBhgTBgj4QD1Js9vHrfgi0La5go0m/s1600/IMG_0086.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I don't really have anything cool to say about these.</td></tr>
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Add about a tablespoon of coconut oil to the pan on medium, and allow it to melt. Then add your chicken. Don't waste your time defrosting, you may cook the frozen ones while in their frozen state.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixut817Id8fYjdK20XJVwULRorC9KwOoMBLZCg5DPDL9sHybXhcEo1NOfntjUz2AfuoZyUYhEN5qA5AjyThprUTAIgM7K3az5xqwDgVpAtbBjl50Qb0Sxu1SXywij5MizWTD7IdetFz-uH/s1600/IMG_0054.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixut817Id8fYjdK20XJVwULRorC9KwOoMBLZCg5DPDL9sHybXhcEo1NOfntjUz2AfuoZyUYhEN5qA5AjyThprUTAIgM7K3az5xqwDgVpAtbBjl50Qb0Sxu1SXywij5MizWTD7IdetFz-uH/s1600/IMG_0054.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Mmmmm</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDkCNy2haLQDYyZJmpBb3GMc0Mn93L6jg7oWxLvl_u0XogzHviDhHhyiMpzpjZy1Be6hRGpcvOeRFqjgjjibLhCzfRePfrS0TTJWPtxzb5UL7QeSA_IN5oD5kZIRqE_ikwNWAunrLBoBzW/s1600/IMG_0074.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDkCNy2haLQDYyZJmpBb3GMc0Mn93L6jg7oWxLvl_u0XogzHviDhHhyiMpzpjZy1Be6hRGpcvOeRFqjgjjibLhCzfRePfrS0TTJWPtxzb5UL7QeSA_IN5oD5kZIRqE_ikwNWAunrLBoBzW/s1600/IMG_0074.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Oooo chicken so pretty</td></tr>
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I'm not really good at timing things, so just cook one side until it's ready to be flipped, and flip it. I don't know how to explain it so don't ask me. As my BFFs dad has always told me "you will just know."<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB66xx5b3BI3eLTqBRQZKbQAoKDPOq8e_0ujdwYFIls5UYcMgGb6pT-mm3-LM_l6FMl2X4R8CgYk_ONBXNGJwhiJX2w3hmsoeJwVA7oc_0f7XaSaUOMlAkE6xXpZxLq1seDUcDEoz7lmXU/s1600/IMG_0075.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB66xx5b3BI3eLTqBRQZKbQAoKDPOq8e_0ujdwYFIls5UYcMgGb6pT-mm3-LM_l6FMl2X4R8CgYk_ONBXNGJwhiJX2w3hmsoeJwVA7oc_0f7XaSaUOMlAkE6xXpZxLq1seDUcDEoz7lmXU/s1600/IMG_0075.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Another angle for your viewing pleasure</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw6ZcGtbejduS4Gm94sbTWLZcBJEtHDPQNvzgvhJ2G7OwM-NcHDyqmczD2N1y-fQvVWJVK2CzhHOjDiRE0O6CAy9ld-wxv3F1iNp9h-Qz_RM73LRCR1R6rz2DhJqcSCIJ6G0_jI8EM38bM/s1600/IMG_0081.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw6ZcGtbejduS4Gm94sbTWLZcBJEtHDPQNvzgvhJ2G7OwM-NcHDyqmczD2N1y-fQvVWJVK2CzhHOjDiRE0O6CAy9ld-wxv3F1iNp9h-Qz_RM73LRCR1R6rz2DhJqcSCIJ6G0_jI8EM38bM/s1600/IMG_0081.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
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Then I get out this beauty. It took a LOT of begging/pleading/convincing to The Hubs that this is an acceptable way to spend $300. I've had it for over a year now and it's worth it's weight in gold. But do not fear, you can shred chicken with two forks just as well.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5YtFQ_1MnDJxztL6iM-5_SBSMdqu0rBNgAZkmZZrCCBJtZiKw7wjy_8ZvAtBrmim2HCIlVhBxR7kFpnMFz0yMkwBZXNldjFc4bIxJPxJTa9SZqgl9XiMr12vUhXGYDLXLIteZzNEC_rFj/s1600/IMG_0083.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5YtFQ_1MnDJxztL6iM-5_SBSMdqu0rBNgAZkmZZrCCBJtZiKw7wjy_8ZvAtBrmim2HCIlVhBxR7kFpnMFz0yMkwBZXNldjFc4bIxJPxJTa9SZqgl9XiMr12vUhXGYDLXLIteZzNEC_rFj/s1600/IMG_0083.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Throw that chicken in the silver bowl of glory. Add your spices. And shred away.</div>
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TA DA.</div>
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Now you have shredded chicken ready to go at your convenience. It's really great for The Hubs who <strike>can't cook to save his life</strike> could use a little help in the kitchen from time to time. You can microwave it, or add it back to a pan to heat up.</div>
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Enjoy!</div>
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xoxo</div>
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Megan</div>
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Holy cow. Time flies when you are having fun. Christmas and New Year's have come and gone. All over social media I see "2014 was _________________, I can't wait to spend 2015 doing _______."</div>
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I think it's really cool how a new year brings so much positivity and change and the chance to start over. Yeah yeah you can start over at any point in the year, but it's so fun to make some personal goals for the new year. </div>
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The problem I have with writing goals is that they are often too vague. </div>
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For example:</div>
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<u>Goals for 2015</u></div>
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*lose weight</div>
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*be happier</div>
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*save money</div>
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*pray more</div>
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*stop comparing myself to others</div>
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*spend less time online</div>
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*read more</div>
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If I learned one thing during my time in college, it's that goals need to be SMART. </div>
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So a better goal list would be:</div>
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*Get active for at least 30 minutes EVERY DAY. Start by doing the Bikini Body Mommy Challenge 3.0</div>
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*Don't say yes out of a desire to please others...it only brings more anxiety.</div>
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*STOP with the negative self-talk. I need to learn myself NOW. The muffin top, the stretch marks, the love handles, the double chin, the fair skin and freckles. God made me. I. AM. BEAUTIFUL.</div>
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*Save money by living with less, make as much from scratch as possible. Start with croutons, pizza sauce, and condiments.</div>
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*Save money by starting a garden</div>
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*Read the Bible each and everyday. Even if it's like 2 verses. I eat everyday. Even if I am busy. Because I have to eat. I would like to look at the Bible in the same way.</div>
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*To stop comparing myself to others, I need to limit my social media use. This means deleting the Facebook app from my phone so I am not constantly checking it and seeing what other people are up to. </div>
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I feel good about this year. I am definitely nervous about it, but I just wouldn't be myself if I wasn't.</div>
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I didn't put a goal of blogging more this year because I am just going with the flow and writing when I feel compelled to write. I don't want to force myself to blog 3-4x a week if I don't have anything to say. </div>
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I will leave you with this quote that has been the background on my phone for quite some time:</div>
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xoxo</div>
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Megan</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09103656471132528417noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7894231579723903738.post-21259102086534095272014-12-17T09:17:00.000-05:002014-12-17T09:17:16.546-05:00week two recap: a couple days late!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3EWk3s7P7Otfv3tkQ2jCgXeMyvaBjIisMi70Q6vbZxQzKuRa7auG2piHC2Hjvmfs1HmwSpv4dd1_9beml-SYLZfVkuokeGrtmXRuJKETuemCSOEuB1_Y-STos6Ebkb44WaEf5DLj2VOPP/s1600/FullSizeRender+(2).jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3EWk3s7P7Otfv3tkQ2jCgXeMyvaBjIisMi70Q6vbZxQzKuRa7auG2piHC2Hjvmfs1HmwSpv4dd1_9beml-SYLZfVkuokeGrtmXRuJKETuemCSOEuB1_Y-STos6Ebkb44WaEf5DLj2VOPP/s1600/FullSizeRender+(2).jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
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So we survived week two! And this week was so much better than the first. I don't know if it was us just getting into a routine, or me making a weekly to-do list, or me scheduling more events for the week...or all of the above. But it was really really awesome.<br />
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Monday we met a lovely mommy and her daughter for coffee and a walk at the mall. I don't have a picture of us anywhere--let's change that lady! So I will save her introduction for another post. All you need to know now is her name is Leah and she is a lifesaver. I am so thankful for her friendship, Godly advice, and coffee dates.<br />
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I was out of makeup wipes, and usually spend $6 on a pack of 25. So instead of spending 6 bucks I made my own! They were suuuper easy. And I just used things I already had around the house! A mason jar, half a roll of paper towels, coconut oil, tea tree oil, baby wash, and water. You can find the recipe I used <a href="http://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com/2011/09/if-youve-read-my-blog-lately.html" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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We also had an appointment with the chiropractor. {Yes <i>we </i>meaning Noah and I.}. We typically go once a month. It has helped a lot this year with my allergies especially-haven't had to take meds at all! It's also helped with Noah's bowel movements. LOL.<br />
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The rest of the week was kind of a blur. I really need to get better at writing things down...#mommybrain<br />
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We went to my youngest sister's bowling match--so exciting. LOL. But had a really good time and it was great to see her all grown up. I got bored so I had a photoshoot with Noah:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoXZH4krXgtGQc9p1g5K5S71kDs0U-EUtYcLRMdXG2bnTxfRrpi4Ng5Q3x1QZ7KQABgjn-zF7LWV1bw6Bh47APqXzxwiWRqzERAWtqZ8aoyH3WJT5OCMaO90WnbYGmSm8zFW1P94RFJlCF/s1600/bowling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoXZH4krXgtGQc9p1g5K5S71kDs0U-EUtYcLRMdXG2bnTxfRrpi4Ng5Q3x1QZ7KQABgjn-zF7LWV1bw6Bh47APqXzxwiWRqzERAWtqZ8aoyH3WJT5OCMaO90WnbYGmSm8zFW1P94RFJlCF/s1600/bowling.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">mom. stop. </td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz1zI5JibXPHlYyhsTA6GQd3oXXHrG8SFwJcpokwdWWg6LEhf6oSSC0NE8ReEi8DU9ZyCGX1dhzRuGeciABWxu8KtHxEKNn7GgdexrGM8dxBQ8iVSV9u-Qg52j2bm5tn5vOpug6CDTiuIu/s1600/IMG_9200.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjz1zI5JibXPHlYyhsTA6GQd3oXXHrG8SFwJcpokwdWWg6LEhf6oSSC0NE8ReEi8DU9ZyCGX1dhzRuGeciABWxu8KtHxEKNn7GgdexrGM8dxBQ8iVSV9u-Qg52j2bm5tn5vOpug6CDTiuIu/s1600/IMG_9200.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">she's so pretty!</td></tr>
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We visited my old office, which actually turned out to be easier than I expected. I had a little bit of anxiety pulling into the parking lot, but after seeing my ex co-workers smiling faces, I felt better. There are moments where I doubt quitting my job. We are on week 3 so this has to be a normal thing. Right?<br />
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But then I look at the clock and it's already 4:39pm, I've already vacuumed all the bedrooms, swept the wood floors, loaded/unloaded the dishwasher, folded two loads of laundry, cooked breakfast and lunch, made next months budget...oh, and take care of an unpredictable 6 month old human! I worried about finding pride in my work without a paycheck. No worries-that is all gone.<br />
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We went to a bday party too! Kendra's son turned TWO!!! We had a blast. Here are some pictures from the day:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The afterparty! Noah was NOT a fan of the hat.</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5HFk3ux0S4EBjoSROrT2iIF0esQ4sCh4C7iKE268XFj-Ivwgq05ska_uzLLwQF3OVgL1JMnMU2LO5gPahRW-67mk1muEZzoSpk7COyhti1DQ5Qex3rN1SN0BFVlujJygLFzwi5ZCI7-B1/s1600/johnnys+bday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5HFk3ux0S4EBjoSROrT2iIF0esQ4sCh4C7iKE268XFj-Ivwgq05ska_uzLLwQF3OVgL1JMnMU2LO5gPahRW-67mk1muEZzoSpk7COyhti1DQ5Qex3rN1SN0BFVlujJygLFzwi5ZCI7-B1/s1600/johnnys+bday.jpg" height="211" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Noah loves his daddy though! And yeah. I know I'm white.</td></tr>
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The week was really great and we are finally getting into the swing of things. I've only had one mommy meltdown since we've been home. And they used to be several times a week. I am SO thankful for this opportunity and while I have zero idea how we are making it work...it's working! =D #thankyoujesus<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Safe to say he loves having me home!</td></tr>
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Thanks for following along!<br />
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xoxo<br />
Megan<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09103656471132528417noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7894231579723903738.post-82303456578773970852014-12-10T07:46:00.001-05:002014-12-10T07:46:40.130-05:00food prep: bacon<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Ohhhhh bacon. AKA meat candy, is probably The Hubs favorite food. The Hubs is bacon obsessed. And it appears as though he is not alone. In 'Merica you can pretty much get bacon anything. Bacon candles, bacon soap, bacon deoderant,..yeah. Not kidding. Google that sh!t. </div>
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We are in our twenties so haven't really started worrying about cholesterol and all that jazz. Jkjk. But for real, if he could have bacon with a side of bacon--he would. Thankfully I am the chef in our home and we consume bacon in a moderate fashion.</div>
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When I was still working outside the home, I would purchase pre-cooked bacon on a weekly basis for The Hubs to prevent him from eating Raisin Bran everyday for lunch. {He works from home so makes his own lunch}.</div>
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I would <i>even</i> make a special trip to Trader Joe's just to get nitrate-free pre-cooked bacon:</div>
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This was an expensive habit, and is not possible with one-income. Bummer. Now we have to cook bacon every time we want some.<br />
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THERE HAS TO BE A BETTER WAY!</div>
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I researched pinterest and discovered "How to make perfect bacon". http://www.momontimeout.com/2011/07/baking-bacon-how-to-guide-to-making/</div>
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You bake it!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4mCPzYBuXu4bm6ZvAmgkKhi5T17urKqfn498YQOpRCdz4Zn6PnS8QCJtgWMlzGG6uCcgcWMi97h7bEyB_XSKRMJtAkQFrCTRWmT2Ny6b6UL77ZUY6e4Xk74kVqGYuh2e8XBv-68nOpnPb/s1600/IMG_0104.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4mCPzYBuXu4bm6ZvAmgkKhi5T17urKqfn498YQOpRCdz4Zn6PnS8QCJtgWMlzGG6uCcgcWMi97h7bEyB_XSKRMJtAkQFrCTRWmT2Ny6b6UL77ZUY6e4Xk74kVqGYuh2e8XBv-68nOpnPb/s1600/IMG_0104.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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I put a layer of aluminum foil on a cookie sheet, put the bacon on it, place in oven, and turn oven onto 400 degrees. Start checking your bacon around 10 minutes to make sure it doesn't burn.</div>
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Once the bacon is done, place on a plate with paper towels to get off the excess grease. Allow to cool and then place in a gallon size freezer bag {or if you only have the sandwich size, cut the pieces in half to fit}. If you have more than one layer, you can separate the bacon using wax paper. Place in freezer.</div>
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Then whenever you want some bacon, pop a slice or two into the microwave for 30 seconds and BOOM. Bacon goodness.</div>
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Other than having bacon with a side of bacon, other meal ideas include: turkey bacon clubs, bacon grilled cheese, and breakfast burritos.</div>
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Enjoy!</div>
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xoxo</div>
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Megan</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09103656471132528417noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7894231579723903738.post-61645679532387930512014-12-08T11:16:00.001-05:002014-12-08T11:16:17.558-05:00week one recap<br />
So we survived our first real week. Yeah yeah our first <i>actual</i> week was the week of Thanksgiving, but we were too busy to have that feel like a real week as a SAHM.<br />
<br />
And SURPRISE! It was not at all what I had expected. I was hoping for a squeaky clean house, gourmet healthy meals every single night, and more sleep.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixuBt8WCij0gyImEXa1STTY3S8WKlleX8d690xBpjTVcO7O7ZZCevEZF1hKSpn4FUhe98Pwk4d1KoNyg3RZP97-ou9i5xNdoOKQYdSvO0ty869nzG2N2aRZBoWrJ31vqaqOj6nt1M7v6TU/s1600/rage+face.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixuBt8WCij0gyImEXa1STTY3S8WKlleX8d690xBpjTVcO7O7ZZCevEZF1hKSpn4FUhe98Pwk4d1KoNyg3RZP97-ou9i5xNdoOKQYdSvO0ty869nzG2N2aRZBoWrJ31vqaqOj6nt1M7v6TU/s1600/rage+face.jpg" height="208" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I imagine this is a veteran SAHM's reaction to my "expectations"</td></tr>
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In full disclosure--and in hopes of making other mommies feel better about themselves, here was my reality after one week on the job:<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdC3QAk8VWwHUa3AlMWmg_OakhroF39mUbs_LHAoyfFIF5GlRYsG_qQdxLOccfN2pj8-T3biW9mFgJSXv0VqtBuRNGqeqGcOnONuUMLRpaPRnIVHKMC8SrO_I4wbVeYmo8AGsqTNwLi-20/s1600/dirty+kitchen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdC3QAk8VWwHUa3AlMWmg_OakhroF39mUbs_LHAoyfFIF5GlRYsG_qQdxLOccfN2pj8-T3biW9mFgJSXv0VqtBuRNGqeqGcOnONuUMLRpaPRnIVHKMC8SrO_I4wbVeYmo8AGsqTNwLi-20/s1600/dirty+kitchen.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">dirty bottles, dirty dishes, clutter, and soooooo much laundry</td></tr>
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The whole expectation vs reality thing is really real. And it's awful. I imagined waking up every morning in a wonderful mood, spend some quiet time with God, do my chores, some crafting, and just smile every single moment. While some of this happens, some of it doesn't. I read a great article yesterday that made me feel less alone: <a href="http://alphamom.com/your-life/postpartum/stay-at-home-realities/">http://alphamom.com/your-life/postpartum/stay-at-home-realities/</a><br />
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This is the best part of the whole article:<br />
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<span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; word-spacing: 1.37999999523163px;">Let me point out one little detail here: Your baby is </span><em style="background: rgb(249, 249, 249); border: 0px; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; margin: 0px; outline: 0px; padding: 0px; vertical-align: baseline; word-spacing: 1.37999999523163px;">six months old</em><span style="background-color: #f9f9f9; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 12px; line-height: 18px; word-spacing: 1.37999999523163px;">. I know it FEELS like half a year should be enough time to adjust to such a profoundly huge life and schedule change, but…no. Six month olds are demanding, unpredictable and absolutely a full-time job in and of themselves. Yet the myth that SAHMomming will equal a spotless house and home-cooked meals, PLUS ample opportunities for Mom to write a novel in her “spare” time, or turn some other hobby into a successful business venture, remains pervasive and out there. And it’s driving us all crazy when we realize that most days, staying home with small babies and children actually means overflowing laundry hampers and trying to get out of our pajamas before our significant other gets home.</span></blockquote>
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I need to give myself a break! Noah is <i>six months old</i>. I've only been a mom for <b>six months</b>. It's okay that I don't know what I am doing <strike>half</strike> all the time.<br />
<br />
So now, the actual point of this blog post. Our week one recap!<br />
<br />
Monday night we had something for dinner....but I cannot recall.<br />
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Tuesday night I had the pleasure of eating at my friend Elizabeth's house. She has the most adorable apartment. And really the best style of anyone I have ever met. We keep talking about going thrifting together. If you are reading this girl---let's make it happen! I want you to dress me. #nohomo<br />
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She slaved over the stove for hours making white chicken chili. And by "slaved over the stove", I mean she turned her crockpot on. Nonetheless it was delicious!<br />
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After dinner we went to hear Laverne Cox speak at our alumni's {alumni's? alumnus? I don't know the proper term...whatever}. Laverne was part of a Presidential Lecture Series at Wright State University. And we went to see her! For those of you who may not be familiar with Laverne Cox, she is a transgender actress on the Netflix original series, Orange is the New Black.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKPmphEtntjWxfl8UjCnEkAMsuF0M5Jc4jn6ZYWxfxooP36821xMnfWB67YYVBdkpIu3Np4qet7V-a5t945mBsef1xaJY6cxfEwmVraTnRmwMi_9nLemwCRMEAjnGJ5uDqPE3cbBva7zm8/s1600/laverne.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKPmphEtntjWxfl8UjCnEkAMsuF0M5Jc4jn6ZYWxfxooP36821xMnfWB67YYVBdkpIu3Np4qet7V-a5t945mBsef1xaJY6cxfEwmVraTnRmwMi_9nLemwCRMEAjnGJ5uDqPE3cbBva7zm8/s1600/laverne.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">she was fabulous!</td></tr>
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Wednesday was spent playing catch up on some chores and just hanging out...I know we did more but this "mommy brain" thing is obnoxious. {I vow to do better for next week's recap}.<br />
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Thursday was probably my favorite day. My best friend Amber got off work early so I went and picked her up and we hung out THE WHOLE DAY. She is amazing. She is the master planner of bday parties and baby showers. She's also thoughtful. Once sent me flowers at work for no good reason! It was so wonderful being able to spend quality time with a friend who doesn't care if I wear pants or not. We watched too many episodes of the Kardashians and kept joking around about how relatable they were. OMG I dropped my $20k diamond earring in the ocean! #sorelatable. We are going to spend the summer in the Hamptons! #sorelatable.<br />
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We went to the grocery and got some things to have a taco night. It was really awesome.<br />
Oh! And the new Serial was released. But I haven't listened to it yet. I will soon though!<br />
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Friday was incredibly lonely. Thursday nights have been dubbed "Mimi & Poppy's" night, so Noah stays at The Hubs' parents' home. So Friday morning there was no Noah waking me up, AND Tyler had to go on site to work...it was the worst 3 hours ever. Seriously. I've said it once and I will say it again. I am an extrovert and get my energy from people. So this whole SAHM is a real challenge for my personality!<br />
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I picked Noah up from their shop {they have a family business in the mechanic world}, and made the incredibly long drive to another friend's home, Kendra. Kendra is pretty wonderful. I met her through a mommy group on Facebook. She is older than me, but you would never know. Her excitement for life and pretty looks make up for it. She has three kids, a 7 year old, almost 2 year old, and a 9 month old. She lives on a farm and I'm sooo jealous. The Hubs and I cannot wait for the day we can move out of suburbia and have our own cows, chickens, and pigs.<br />
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Friday night we had a surprise birthday party for my youngest sister Madison AKA Mason AKA Mini Me. We are basically the same person. Except she is prettier, funnier, and more stylish. Anytime I am sad, I know all I have to do is call her and she can put a smile on my face.<br />
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Saturday Noah and I went shopping with my sis-in-law, mom-in-law, her mom, and Tori. We also got a picture with Santa.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvPITQY6QCa5E2yKlh0SSKL4MUxUSdVsxEMpSZHtcPNfbTY3ihx4JmAaNpaKFgTs6QkNgitoE3Itgi25RDKFSALbSggMnszb7Nokfp1jTk29mKKxpIvmUpF0GKDehtc9LhbFEXwPibsLdp/s1600/santa.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvPITQY6QCa5E2yKlh0SSKL4MUxUSdVsxEMpSZHtcPNfbTY3ihx4JmAaNpaKFgTs6QkNgitoE3Itgi25RDKFSALbSggMnszb7Nokfp1jTk29mKKxpIvmUpF0GKDehtc9LhbFEXwPibsLdp/s1600/santa.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">yeah. Noah loooooves Santa.</td></tr>
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Saturday night we went out with friends from work----and holy cow did I miss these lovely ladies and gents. After dinner we went to my sis-in-law's house to watch OSU annihilate Wisconsin.<br /><br />
Sunday Noah & I went to church, and then he went to a Christmas event at my stepdad's work while I rushed home to catch the College Football Playoff selection committee's final top 4.<br />
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Whew.<br />
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Today is a new day and a new week, and I am going to try harder to not let my loneliness get the best of me. I actually had a panic attack last night...but it's probably because I missed a dose of medicine on Saturday night. #mommybrainstrikesagain<br />
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Thanks for following along,<br />
xoxo<br />
Megan<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09103656471132528417noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7894231579723903738.post-72404293420703912952014-12-05T09:39:00.001-05:002014-12-05T09:39:22.503-05:00i'm kinda lonely<br />
I am a pretty outgoing person. I'll talk to anybody about anything. So going from 3 phone lines ringing throughout the day, plus getting to meet new people walking up to a desk asking questions to complete silence...for several hours a day...makes me go a little crazy.<br />
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Let me preface this with the fact that we are incredibly blessed as a family to have The Hubs work from home. He's right down the hall most days. And it's wonderful. We talk, we get to have lunch together, he gets to hang out with Noah, the whole family is together and a lot of people do not get to have that.<br />
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I also realize how incredibly awesome it is that I quit my job so I could be with my family. It's a struggle financially but <strike>all</strike> most of our needs are met. I know many families who do not have this privilege. Their needs cannot be met with one income. So before I continue complaining about my loneliness and how I am combating it, please know that I am someone who is eternally grateful for the opportunity I am in.<br />
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Again, I am outgoing, and while it means I like to talk to people, what it <i>really</i> means is that I get my energy from others. I prefer to work in a group setting. Or at least work while being around other people. Yes we all need to be alone to "recharge" {whatever the eff that means}, and to reflect, and yadayadayada. But I am one who needs minimal alone time. Five minutes of "peace and quiet" is enough for me. Not five hours.<br />
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I painted my nails yesterday during nap time. I binged watched Netflix. I'm sure I will find more productive ways of dealing with it, but for now, that's what I've done. It's only been one full week on the job, so I am still working out the kinks.<br />
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I tend to try and do everything in a day because "things need done" rather than space them out. So Monday-Wednesday of this week I was doing a lot around the house. But yesterday and today I'm kind of twiddling my thumbs. So I may try to make a cleaning schedule, and space out my to-do list so I'm not overwhelmed with loneliness at the end of the week.<br />
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The Hubs was working on site yesterday. And most of today. Thursday nights are typically Noah's night at Mimi and Poppy's {in-laws}, so Friday he is with Mimi most of the day. So that means most of today I am alone. Yes my cat and dog are here. Felix and Flynn. They are great and all, but don't make much conversation. "I have to pee" or "The mailman is here" is sometimes all I hear in a day.<br />
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I think what I hate the most about being alone is that when I am alone, I struggle with purpose.<br />
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It was easier for me to find purpose when I woke up everyday, got dressed, and went to an office. I had a set plan for the day, accomplished it, and went home. Now my work is my home. My home is my work. It's difficult to clean the house and say "ooooo wow good job Megan. You are an adult and cleaned up after yourself. Want a cookie or something?". Or "That's so awesome. You changed a poopy diaper. Way to go."<br />
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My office life was really uplifting. I would do something I viewed as part of my job that I'm supposed to do, getting paid to do, and my boss would say "Hey Fritschie--thanks. That was really great when you did ________." I'll let you in on a little secret: <i>that doesn't happen much when you are a full-time mommy</i>.<br />
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The Hubs does a pretty good job of showing appreciation for re-stocked towels in the hall closet, and a good meal, but it's just....different. I'm really struggling with finding purpose.<br />
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I truly believe God is the force behind me quitting my job. I really do believe that because I prayed and asked Him what the heck I should be doing with my life he made my working life miserable and opened my heart to the possibility of being with Noah full-time. Forcing me to give up gourmet coffee, new clothes, dinners out, and really anything else materialistic I used to view as a "need". So I guess my purpose is just taking care of a home, a husband, and a baby. I didn't need to go to college for that. But for some reason I did. And maybe someday I will use that degree towards a job that pays money and not kisses and giggles. But I think I can make it work.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPuJKPufP64OCZwaIgxyeYBZspSqqWGtp02LQyUxjuDb70KfOLCiEeJU_LIPAdFdoeGdkYrsUwjFXL8uwNumsLG-DNLYUC-KkRvJ71PowRVbvJ8lv-b90bpOc_ZbLlTvLXJBXcGgmmDhlA/s1600/half+bday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPuJKPufP64OCZwaIgxyeYBZspSqqWGtp02LQyUxjuDb70KfOLCiEeJU_LIPAdFdoeGdkYrsUwjFXL8uwNumsLG-DNLYUC-KkRvJ71PowRVbvJ8lv-b90bpOc_ZbLlTvLXJBXcGgmmDhlA/s1600/half+bday.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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xoxo,<br />
Megan<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09103656471132528417noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7894231579723903738.post-42279587551568521672014-12-03T09:37:00.000-05:002014-12-03T11:25:51.613-05:00food prep: produceDoes this ever happen to anyone else? EW. #embarrassing<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFhQvSHg144Uap0GHu5n5lbEoLZZGy4q6UumML-xOYi3tautuvkBRQzbobhsahym6c0hn4BXFQ8Ppesm9z3d1gXUi0VEXWGOaOv4HVKLR9CtoK86vrfx8aqLkyZR_Q9R5aopL48GNhZUpO/s1600/IMG_0095.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFhQvSHg144Uap0GHu5n5lbEoLZZGy4q6UumML-xOYi3tautuvkBRQzbobhsahym6c0hn4BXFQ8Ppesm9z3d1gXUi0VEXWGOaOv4HVKLR9CtoK86vrfx8aqLkyZR_Q9R5aopL48GNhZUpO/s1600/IMG_0095.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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You walk through the grocery store and tell yourself you are going to get the healthy stuff. The GREEN stuff. The veggies and fresh produce. You are going to eat the hell out of it. Beautiful romaine for lettuce wraps, spinach and bell pepper for your daily omelette. And maybe a couple naked juices for fun.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEichUMUCr6isjijsoEdnW_w3OvBZfSlCW-BEFMPvw5MKnmvj4ziBEneCikAPG39FFvvDTDJxTyu1SpifAHJ39iATGX0XWHOJ9ELWrs_W3cISSACO1VLVexyddRgcoJZve5AEDOvbW6aQeQM/s1600/lettuce+with+coffee.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEichUMUCr6isjijsoEdnW_w3OvBZfSlCW-BEFMPvw5MKnmvj4ziBEneCikAPG39FFvvDTDJxTyu1SpifAHJ39iATGX0XWHOJ9ELWrs_W3cISSACO1VLVexyddRgcoJZve5AEDOvbW6aQeQM/s1600/lettuce+with+coffee.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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You'll be cheesin' it up for everyone to see you with your salad, perfect skin and a cup of coffee. Because who doesn't love coffee with their salad?!</div>
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And then a week later your lettuce is laughing in your face because you forgot all about it...or you ate a little bit on taco night...and a little bit on a salad....but you just couldn't eat it all before it went bad. Well my friends, this is my life. And it's awful. Not only am I wasting money, but I am wasting all this food.<br />
<br />
So I went to the internets to try and solve this problem. My goals were to save money on produce, and be able to make the food last longer.<br />
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Also, it really sucks that you never get coupons for fresh produce. LAME.<br />
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Anyway, as usual, Google delivered. Many a blogs and links offering ways to pinch pennies and make food last longer. However, most were designed for families of 4-6. Buy in bulk, have "Meatless Mondays", and other ways to eat more veggies.<br />
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Still not good enough for me. Then I remembered these green bags my mother in law bragged about. And I thought I had a few of them lying around somewhere.<br />
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Ah here they are:<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2ToF8hDebYLcfyZA7rJuGtH2DZdTt9f-gAzPdgqGfsv91a0mqmHd-01-QmYQWgZ-xeRK2YQU5HX9JfJnkK-Bf3cw-VRRM8ze2IBCLiCCqKTzDsItNwKakU4K-Mz4WsDwTk_hfEpsiLupm/s1600/debbie+meyer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2ToF8hDebYLcfyZA7rJuGtH2DZdTt9f-gAzPdgqGfsv91a0mqmHd-01-QmYQWgZ-xeRK2YQU5HX9JfJnkK-Bf3cw-VRRM8ze2IBCLiCCqKTzDsItNwKakU4K-Mz4WsDwTk_hfEpsiLupm/s1600/debbie+meyer.jpg" height="320" width="247" /></a></div>
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These bags are cool and everything. And it would allow the fruits and veggies to last longer. But it really didn't help with saving money. I wanted to try and buy in bulk to save money.<br />
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So I eventually stumbled upon the idea of vacuum sealing. You need a handheld vacuum sealer, a wide mouth attachment, and wide mouth mason jars.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisBAZJWO4gVf__7m_F8pMCbOc3i2EHjL91OjvVIdF3nZgGQGvy65_z2RcLZZ3xqC9WhGAjY52-cE6bh_x6Y3-LOVjwbssiA1vp9ePmG82z1UpU2SjKayjXQiINBosXjC9cITAxZqB6Im_i/s1600/produce+1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisBAZJWO4gVf__7m_F8pMCbOc3i2EHjL91OjvVIdF3nZgGQGvy65_z2RcLZZ3xqC9WhGAjY52-cE6bh_x6Y3-LOVjwbssiA1vp9ePmG82z1UpU2SjKayjXQiINBosXjC9cITAxZqB6Im_i/s1600/produce+1.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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I got both the vacuum sealer and attachment for $15 on Amazon.<br />
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Vacuum Sealer:<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002FWIVCA/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1">http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002FWIVCA/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1</a><br />
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Attachment:<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00005TN7H/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1">http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00005TN7H/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1</a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCYYs_24jc8g2ki1lpp4hHYPALw4at3tpP6ClCWvVTVHrx3Y1eN4rV-9XrCc8EWojTT3j8Q6kl1czgaWxCJO1y4C_zASB8k0uE4GbxyIXHsXUOoUQITBp9HvUL9Sk6Wm8CoLFHYizj00yq/s1600/IMG_0092.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCYYs_24jc8g2ki1lpp4hHYPALw4at3tpP6ClCWvVTVHrx3Y1eN4rV-9XrCc8EWojTT3j8Q6kl1czgaWxCJO1y4C_zASB8k0uE4GbxyIXHsXUOoUQITBp9HvUL9Sk6Wm8CoLFHYizj00yq/s1600/IMG_0092.JPG" height="240" width="320" /></a></div>
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Then you start chopping veggies, placing them in the jars, put the lid on the jar, then the attachment, then the vacuum sealer itself. Add the little mason jar rim things and boom. Fresh produce for days.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixrScKEQpVKsDIcrEilYp8V0-drQEiRald3_ltrZSyVv_IYcDwCvZ2-8KtS59fyjBnoy5kDfgYRnZqop2fOBoreb3jeUn_lPKZnEgCXlf-woRiNrooZtEhnlsru2gb9joZwKAcs_3MpAJX/s1600/produce.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixrScKEQpVKsDIcrEilYp8V0-drQEiRald3_ltrZSyVv_IYcDwCvZ2-8KtS59fyjBnoy5kDfgYRnZqop2fOBoreb3jeUn_lPKZnEgCXlf-woRiNrooZtEhnlsru2gb9joZwKAcs_3MpAJX/s1600/produce.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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YAY FOR SAVING MONEY. I will keep sharing our journey as a one-income family. The goal is for me to be able to stay home, have more babies {someday}, and treat this like homesteading. That means a garden, DIY projects, couponing, and more.<br />
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Thanks for following along,<br />
xoxo<br />
Megan<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09103656471132528417noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7894231579723903738.post-87825038282341918092014-11-25T08:06:00.002-05:002014-11-25T08:29:29.749-05:00case of the mondays<div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvdVu5Kq00IWYbaX2hPAAQwCDRnJYUoXKaa-YeOQuNuG0Q3d81mkdAauqF6BL_KkmqymNoozyD8FPayOkZENLK2V8VsOTZrezUEqfqyNSRkquM1cXwIBue3-dEBNdR7_Nf9EPEmaavgxFk/s1600/how+do+i+put+this.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvdVu5Kq00IWYbaX2hPAAQwCDRnJYUoXKaa-YeOQuNuG0Q3d81mkdAauqF6BL_KkmqymNoozyD8FPayOkZENLK2V8VsOTZrezUEqfqyNSRkquM1cXwIBue3-dEBNdR7_Nf9EPEmaavgxFk/s1600/how+do+i+put+this.jpg" height="280" width="320" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKpMSfmELAtCXAKIdjoCQF03MOI7Ukv7vOv6pNzzLtX17eamzKhY-ylVhie9u8v8w56rAzOBAsW2B6V1mNE_yLwNaa26EoXoy18XP-u3lbG4bjaAX37WF4DtARI5H5DqJO5YhMPNdnhEVY/s1600/first+day.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKpMSfmELAtCXAKIdjoCQF03MOI7Ukv7vOv6pNzzLtX17eamzKhY-ylVhie9u8v8w56rAzOBAsW2B6V1mNE_yLwNaa26EoXoy18XP-u3lbG4bjaAX37WF4DtARI5H5DqJO5YhMPNdnhEVY/s1600/first+day.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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^I am calling B.S.!</div>
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My first day of work with the little man was yesterday. It was pretty awesome. He didn't wake up until 8:45ish so I was able to share a cup of coffee with The Hubs. Oh and I was able to take a shower! This unfortunately has not been a common occurrence for me as a working mom. #dryshampoo<br />
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After Noah had breakfast {formula+brown rice cereal}, we played on his mat with a little red fox he adores, and then I jumped into the world of budgeting and couponing. I had mentioned in a <a href="http://lovemeganalexis.blogspot.com/2014/11/congrats.html" target="_blank"><b>previous post</b></a> that I was not becoming a SAHM {again, this is short for stay at home mom}, because we have the money. Because we don't. It isn't that we are comfortable enough as a one income family for me to quit. Because we aren't. That will absolutely be my biggest challenge. More on that later.</div>
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After couponing and creating a budget for the entire month of December, Noah took a nap and I cleaned the living room. It is obnoxious how messy it can get with an almost six month old. I should have taken a picture. He never cleans up after himself. Noah is almost halfway through his first year of life! Shouldn't he be feeding himself and picking up his toys by now?</div>
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By lunchtime I was thinking to myself....hmm this can't be that bad. I can be a SAHM easy peasy. Baby is fed and diaper bag is packed, I was clean and dolled up to go to the grocery store, had my coupons and list in hand. And then the unthinkable happened.....</div>
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<b style="text-align: center;"> THE SWAGWAGON </b></div>
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<b>WOULD. <span style="font-size: large;">NOT.</span> <span style="font-size: x-large;">START.</span></b></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTkev07Tj78jF3lZE0IKVFmAuQhIYJu0_oJP3gxvGElhcX6kDEeqJQ4iolRgfIfnCN_moG3Gn5_mszQmhSpuJNuzSOYJoGW9dBon_m8fVIXiY7zI1cOeNfXMROZPsIRxcAVSShXavFRIWh/s1600/swag.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTkev07Tj78jF3lZE0IKVFmAuQhIYJu0_oJP3gxvGElhcX6kDEeqJQ4iolRgfIfnCN_moG3Gn5_mszQmhSpuJNuzSOYJoGW9dBon_m8fVIXiY7zI1cOeNfXMROZPsIRxcAVSShXavFRIWh/s1600/swag.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">here she is in all her beauty #swag</td></tr>
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This <u>cannot</u> be happening. I just quit my job. I don't have the f**k**g money to pay to get a car fixed. Why is this happening to me? Noah is already in the car, I have my list. I remembered the list! Do you know how many times I have left the house and forgotten the list and/or my wallet?! Ugh and we were supposed to get the grocery shopping done in time to make it to the chiropractor...What a nightmare. My entire day is ruined.</div>
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^That was my initial reaction. But after calling The Hubs and figuring out we may just need a new battery, the anxiety subsided. One of my sisters came and saved the day and <strike>regretfully</strike> happily drove me to four different grocery stores so I could save a buck. I was able to reschedule the chiro appointment for later this week so no worries there.</div>
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So overall it was okay. I did get pretty lonely at one point, but I hate being alone...so maybe some self-reflection won't be such a bad thing. </div>
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Oh hey my boss is yelling for breakfast......</div>
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"DADA". That's all he says now. #jealous #thatconsonantiseasier</div>
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peace,</div>
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Megan</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09103656471132528417noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7894231579723903738.post-38823949613314734532014-11-20T10:35:00.006-05:002014-11-20T11:33:37.447-05:00congrats...<br />
As my last day of work approaches...I am left feeling somewhat...empty. Many co-workers, colleagues, and students stop by my cubicle to say "congrats!" "you're going to love it!" "you already seem so much happier!" and things like that.<br />
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I don't know how to respond.<br />
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I am thrilled to spend my days with these two.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXa5yR4_B8oahgA8rXmep-vKtehg0z3-Xw0s12cfbpndC9IEL8MqSYfgQYjI8nzysMLjJAXi-PzCqiEwGbdrHRMqGmsq88QGym4OjSj307OssZcP9cyUpDGZ0qzwj9ZnMqoBHZ3zdt1t97/s1600/tyler+and+noah.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXa5yR4_B8oahgA8rXmep-vKtehg0z3-Xw0s12cfbpndC9IEL8MqSYfgQYjI8nzysMLjJAXi-PzCqiEwGbdrHRMqGmsq88QGym4OjSj307OssZcP9cyUpDGZ0qzwj9ZnMqoBHZ3zdt1t97/s1600/tyler+and+noah.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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They are the crunchy peanut butter to my jelly. The mac to my cheese. I adore them.</div>
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However.</div>
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I also adore the idea of becoming a career woman. pursuing my dreams of working in higher education, pursuing a master's degree, {<i>which by the way would be free} </i>and who the hell knows...maybe even a doctorate someday. That someday used to be a few years. Now it's looking more like fifty.</div>
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My youngest sister only added to the frustration and chaos of my decision by asking me a logical question, "Why?". Why leave a comfortable cube where I can enjoy my coffee hot instead of lukewarm, and in a quiet place uninterrupted by the screeches and sounds coming from a bouncing baby boy who wants to be held. Why walk away from a college degree that has now left me with $30k of debt. Why walk away from a wonderful team of people who I have spent 40 hour weeks with the last three years. It doesn't make sense.</div>
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She is right. It does not make any logical sense. We are happy....sort of. We are comfortable. Yeah we have some credit card debt, a mortgage, a car payment, and student loans. But with two incomes, life is not so bad. Why in the world would you leave it?</div>
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Well folks. That is the million dollar question. In a world where chasing money and materialism is typically priority numero uno--<i>okay maybe not </i><i><b>number one</b>, but still, think about how many decisions we make based on money</i>--it's hard to switch to a one-income family. </div>
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I'm not becoming a SAHM {<i>stay at home mom for those like my husband and myself who were unfamiliar with this abbreviation</i>}because we are financially ready. Because we aren't. This is going to be a challenge that we are going to try out and see what happens. I'm a good cook, so I know we can save money by making everything from scratch. That part will be easy. Because now I will have a lot more time to meal plan and what not. I still need to find a way to save even <b>more</b>. But I'll talk more about how that will be done in a later post. </div>
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I am leaving this comfortable life because of Noah Jaymes. He has changed me in ways that I will never fully comprehend. This peanut makes me want to follow my heart.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi80Fct2hRVV6_cIjYTgZGpYhR5lOKQrUjRYGx-QFd2G3tkgngvfPNZz9CfcomMomhyF4T8hvr-GHuG9HWUnAO3WxwmlAUg_GHh1VfKgqNLUSOY0x9wduVM48nhJulkuAWgiDKDL1DphtWi/s1600/dr+seuss.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi80Fct2hRVV6_cIjYTgZGpYhR5lOKQrUjRYGx-QFd2G3tkgngvfPNZz9CfcomMomhyF4T8hvr-GHuG9HWUnAO3WxwmlAUg_GHh1VfKgqNLUSOY0x9wduVM48nhJulkuAWgiDKDL1DphtWi/s1600/dr+seuss.jpg" height="272" width="400" /></a></div>
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And it's not just about spending more time with him. </div>
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Obviously that is a big factor that went into this decision, but also the fact that I will have more time <b>period.</b> I will be able to spend more time with my beautiful mother who I have only talked to on the phone the past couple of weeks. Be able to spend more time with my <u>awesome</u> mother-in-law, grandparents, friends, etc. I will be able to {<i>fingers-crossed</i>} SHOWER more than <strike>four</strike> three times a week. Yes I have been living off of dry shampoo for the past four months. There has been no work-life balance for me. Just work-and-life-sucking-the-life-outta-me.</div>
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But that's all over. I start my "new job" November 24th. </div>
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Come along for the ride.</div>
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xoxo</div>
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Megan</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09103656471132528417noreply@blogger.com0