Creatively Speaking

Every year at Thanksgiving we take our annual family photo. We started doing this for James’ 1st Christmas in 2001. It’s become tradition to take the pictures at Thanksgiving so we can send them out on our Christmas cards. It’s been really fun to see the changes through the years. I think I might do a mini album of them, actually. Above is this years picture.

About goals…for the 1st time in years my New Year’s Resolution won’t be to lose weight. I have been very quiet about this goal, but on April 26th I joined WW. I had lost weight from having both kids, but I still had weight on that I had gained after back surgery in 1997. The biggest motivator for me was chronic pain. I have back pain every day. I guess it was like a lightbulb finally went off in the spring and I knew that even if I didn’t stay for the meetings, the motivator for me would be the weigh in. That would keep me accountable. Once I started seeing the weight loss and my clothes were falling off- that was great motivation for me. It wasn’t easy. It has been a struggle every day, but I got into a routine and tried hard to not let myself feel deprived. There were days when I was cranky, but it was all worth it. On December 13th, I hit my goal and lost a total of 33 lbs. Absolutely none of my clothes fit- even bras. So my super sweet DH spoiled me with some g.c. to Old Navy, Gap, Target and Kohl’s and I bought myself some new clothes. It still feels weird as I am passing a mirror and I catch my new reflection, but I am getting used to it. Not everything is as firm as it used to be, but I do feel better inside and out.

This month has gotten away from me. I guess it’s because there have been some unexpected health issues with my dad and James. I have been helping my dad out with many things and that has been so time consuming. Also, out of the blue, James had a food allergy reaction. It was very scary. He broke out in welts from head to toe and his face and lips swelled up. A trip to the doc and the ER all in a 12 hr span. The welts lasted about 48 hrs. He goes for allergy testing on the 5th to find out what he is allergic to. I think it may be Motrin, but we will see.

Things are still hectic and I can’t believe Christmas is almost here. I have been working like a mad woman on getting ready for Christmas. I have also been taking bits of time here and there for my CHA projects. I will begin showing those books mid January. I have 3 left to complete and I will be finished for this CHA. Maya Road has some yummy goodies coming out. Keep checking back in and I will keep you posted on those.

I couldn’t let this month go by without mentioning that I have been a guest designer over at Happy Scrappin Scrapbooking.   You should check out their gallery and forums.  The women are all so friendly and supportive.  It has been a great experience.  I hope everyone has a safe and Merry Christmas.