Children do as we do. 

Every day we set an example for them in how they should behave, what they should eat, whether they should exercise, etc. 

We ARE Role Models; even if the children aren’t our own….nephews, nieces, even the neighbor’s kids.

I’ve been working really hard on being a good role model for my child.  I want him to see that trying new things and being patient and kind, for example, do have their own rewards.

If you don’t know my son, he has a strong personality.  As a strong personality myself, it’s important to show him how to interact with others and to be aware of others and their feelings.  There are days though, that he will push to the very brink to see what he can get away with.   Pretty sure God is getting me back for my childhood.

And yep, my son is aware that he is "different" from some other kids his age due to his ADHD and is ok with it. He is the most amazing person and is destined to do great things in life. 

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Fear.

Do you live your life in it? Do you even KNOW if you do?

I found out during my vacation that I HAD been living my life that way. I mean...of course I knew...I lived in my comfortable, safe, little box...but I didn’t realize what I had been missing out on because of it.

This vacation I lived with NO fear...well, ok, yes there WAS fear, but I didn’t let it dictate my choices or rule me...THAT piece was different. VERY different.

As a result, I had some of the most exhilarating experiences in my life! Seriously!

I went white-water rafting down Class 3 & 4 rapids. I went ziplining and hung upside-down without hands. I went 650 ft underground in “forbidden caverns.” I went on a challenging ropes course.

Several times my hubby looked at me, shook his head, and said who are you and what have you done with my wife?

All of these things have an element of trust in them...something that I’ve always struggled with. Turns out that when you face your fears, you might actually have a BLAST!!! WHO KNEW?!!?!?!??!?!

My hubby now wants to parasail. I do believe that I will be joining him.

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I’ve always enjoyed reading a good quote or a motivational poem.  Here is one that I wanted to share with you titled “I CAN!”

If you think you are beaten, you are;
If you think you dare not, you don't.
If you'd like to win, but think you can't
It's almost a "cinch" you won't.
If you think you'll lose, you're lost.
For out in the world you find
Success begins with a fellow's will,
It's all in the state of mind.
For many a race is lost
Before even a step is run,
And many a coward fails
Before even his work begun,
Think big and your deeds will grow,
Think small and you'll fall behind,
Think you can, and will,
It's all in the state of mind.
If you think you're outclassed, you are.
You've got to think high to rise,
You've got to be sure of yourself before
You ever can win a prize.
Life's battles don't always go
To the stronger or faster man,
But sooner or later the man who wins
Is the man who thinks he can.
Author Unknown

Do you have a quote or poem that you enjoy?  Do share!

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I had an entirely different plan for my post today, BUT I just can’t pass this up. I’m cracking up and CAN’T share this on Facebook right now...which is DRIVING ME NUTS! I mean...come ON...I share my entire life on Facebook...but for this very moment, I must keep a secret.

It’s Saturday. I’m currently sitting in the Phoenix airport, double fisting a cup of coffee and a Shakeology. I just arrived to surprise my BFF at something special tomorrow evening. Because I know that she lives in Facebook too, I have to be elusive. Hence my dilemma and changing of today’s post...

As you may know, my hubby just returned from his deployment one week ago today. We’ve spent the past week really without a routine. We had actually planned it that way...just get used to being around each other again...BUT because I’m a schedule-kind-of girl, it’s been a challenge.

Anyways, so I’ve officially been away from home for 5 hrs now.

I just called Keith to let him know that I’ve arrived safely.

His first words to me were “Wow...being home is HARD! How do you do this?”

I said...”Huh? What’s up? It’s Saturday.”

Well, in the 5 hours of my absence, he has accomplished the following things:
1. He missed giving our son his morning medication.
2. He almost caused a fire when he forgot about the lizard heat lamp that he put on the plastic table.
3. He got us “dinged” on our internet...basically slowing us down even worse than dial-up. (You GO, babe! I’m not there and don’t need it. :P)

Yes, gotta admit...I felt a twinge of vindication that he realized it was HARD to hold down the fort while he was gone for a year.

Oh...and...
4. He spent an hour looking for his sunglasses because he wanted to go outside and didn’t want the blowing sand to get in his eyes. Then he realized that we don’t have sandstorms in Florida. (Yea, I totally giggled on this one.)

I told him that I was going to go find Wifi and catch up on some coaching. He replied...”Ok, good...you’ll have Wifi, so I can email you or Skype you if I need you.”

To which I replied...”Ummmmm...DUDE...you can CALL me!!!!!”

I then asked to speak to our son and kindly asked him to take care of Daddy these next couple of days.

****Monday morning addendum: My hubby just woke me up...5am here, 8am there. I think he’s ready for me to come home. He informed me that he needs to get a carpet cleaner today.

Hmmmm...why, babe? I just had the carpet cleaned before you came home. To which he replies...No, it’s to get the water out of the carpet in the hall.

Turns out my son clogged the toilet last night. Yea, you moms out there are rolling your eyes and know what I’m gonna say next...the hallway is now SOAKED!!!!!

I don’t know...homelife vs the desert in Afghanistan...which one is more difficult to maneuver?

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I’ve had a rough time the past few weeks. First being sick as dog, then life in general.

Nerves are getting the best of me...unfortunately. My husband’s deployment is rapidly coming to an end, and for those who know me well know that change always throws me. Even good change.

I honestly didn’t expect to feel this way. I mean I should be sooooo excited he’s coming home. Don’t get me wrong...I AM! I’m thrilled. It just seems surreal because we’ve spent the past year without him. It has sucked. It has been hard. BUT we’ve done it...and have adjusted.

Now we will have to adjust again.

Thankfully when my hubby came home for his 2 week vacation, it felt as though he had never been gone. We didn’t have a transition period. Life was just normal.

Will it be that way this time? I hope, yes, but I also know that he’s spent the past year in a very different environment. I don’t know how his adjustment will be.

So...I say all of this to say...I’m struggling.

and what to I do when I’m struggling? Well, duh, I eat.

...which unfortunately has come at the most inconvenient time...after a cruise and after being sick.

Do you see where I’m going with this?

I need to get back on track. I know that I WILL get back on track. I know that I have a great support system to get through this.

I just want my hubby home so we can begin a “normal” life again without having to think about deployment.

Sigh.

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Ever feel the need to simply start fresh? Yea, me too. Having one of those moments now actually.

Last week was one of my most-memorable weeks in a long time. I went on a Beachbody Success Cruise, Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Seas. I took 3 of my coaches with me and let me just say I treated my body the whole week as though I was 21 again. Ummmmm...yea....turns out I’m not. Who knew?!?!?!?!?!!?

We were out until 2:30-3am, dancing, drinking, laughing, enjoying life. Rinse and repeat daily. It was about total indulgence on all levels.

It’s no surprise that, the last day of the cruise, we ALL came down with the flu. Seriously, we had no immune system to fight with.

So, I’ve been laid out for the past week feeling like a mack truck had run me over. I’m JUST starting to feel human again.

Do I regret ONE thing that I did on the cruise? Ummmmm...this is my blog so I can be truthful, yes? I DON’T REGRET A THING!!!! I had SO much fun!!!!!! (I say as I sit here coughing up a lung and trying to not pee myself in the process.)

I have been through SO much the past year with my hubby’s deployment, my son’s diagnoses, and the death of my step-dad that, quite frankly, I deserved it. Period. No apologies.

Now, it’s time to get back to reality. Time to start eating clean again. Time to start a workout program. I plan to start Insanity again on Monday. I’m really looking forward to it.

My advice to you: regardless of what is happening in your life, simply move forward...start fresh. You haven’t blown it. If I can do this, so can YOU!

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Such a fitting day to be writing this...my birthday. I didn’t even plan it...it was simply meant to be.

This weekend was life-changing for me. I spent 3 days with myself at a seminar...in a totally safe environment...taking an honest look at what is working in my life, what isn’t working in my life, and the why behind all of it.

I went looking for a specific answer to a specific question. I walked away with so much more.

It’s so hard to put it all into words, but I’m viewing the world thru different eyes. Eyes that aren’t hazy or muddied up by my past.

Intention + Mechanism= Result.

Result occurs 100% of the time...whether good...whether bad. Where I am in my life...in ALL areas of my life...is the result of 100% of my intention. I may not be aware of my intention, but my results...good or bad... will reflect what my intention was. (THAT was a hard pill to swallow.)

Mechanisims...the “getting there”...are infinite. We can have the same intentions, choose totally different ways of getting there, and end up with the same results as each other...and it’s ok.

I’ve been living my life without being fully aware of my intentions, yet questioning some of my results...that’s called being a victim. I am a victim no more.

Does this mean that I won’t have anymore problems? Of course not. It DOES mean, however, that I will be “present” and in control of my destiny.

...and I told you this was gonna be hard to put into words. :P

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No surprise that I haven’t been here for a week. It’s been a whirlwind of activity following the passing of my step-dad. Driving back and forth to help Mom, filling out paperwork, making necessary appointments, just being available for support...THAT has been my focus.

During this time, I’m gonna be honest (seriously...when am I not?)...I didn’t work out. If I don’t work out, trust me, I don’t eat well either. It’s a hand-in-hand thing for me. Wish it wasn’t. It is.

So today is the first time in a 10 days that I’ve worked out. It felt aMAZing! As a result, I’ve been eating clean today also.

No matter what’s going on in your life...and we ALL have stuff going on...pick yourself up each and every time. Refuse to be defeated by anything. Simply move forward. Period.

I see my goal...physically and financially...and I’m a pit-bull. I won’t let go no matter what’s thrown my way.

Do you give up? Quit? I’m gonna be frank here....if you do, then you really didn’t want it THAT bad in the first place.

Just some food for thought...or perhaps the missing piece in YOUR puzzle that you had to find.

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Tags:Personal

It’s been a rough couple of days...no...it’s been a rough couple of years. I’m not looking for sympathy...just stating fact.

In the past 2 1/2 years, we’ve dealt with:

1. My brother’s brain tumor...subsequent brainstem stroke and long recovery.
2. My husband’s deployment overseas.
3. My son’s diagnosis of ADD, sensory integration issues, and anxiety disorder...and the management of it all.
4. and now the sudden passing yesterday of my step-dad.

I’m the strong one...the one who helps figure things out when in crisis. Sometimes it’s just plain hard to be strong...and I can’t. Well, a very good friend just reminded me that God will carry us when we can no longer walk. It brought me to tears...not because it made me sad but because I NEEDED to hear it.

I will carry what I can...He will have to carry the rest.

There are no guarantees in life. No guarantees of happiness, wealth, friendship. WE have to extend ourselves...seek out what we want...put out into the world the things that we would want in return.

Want to be happy? Smile at people. Do something for someone. Have a relationship with God. Hug your family.

Want to be wealthy? Get out there and do something. Stop complaining about it. Hard work is rewarded...over time.

Want friendships? BE a friend. Reach out to someone in need...and expect nothing in return.

Be a glass half-full person. Although life has thrown us curveball after curveball, I refuse to feel sorry for myself. I am strong. My family is strong. We WILL prevail!

Tom, you were a wonderful husband, father, and Poppie. We are all still in shock, but we know that you are in a better place. You will no longer have trouble with your walking or breathing...that makes us happy. You will be missed greatly and never forgotten. Oh, and we promise to make your stuffing every Thanksgiving...shoot, I’ll even learn how to make it (gasp.) We love you!!!!

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What a scary, awesome weekend I had!

Yesterday was Florida’s FIRST Beachbody Game Plan Event! It was held at the beautiful Gaylord Palms hotel in Kissimmee. I could do a whole post just on the hotel, but I won’t. Let’s just say you HAVE to stay there if in the area. Amazing!!! Beautiful!!! Huge!!!

So, the event...it’s a time to get together with other like-minded individuals. I saw some old friends and made some new ones. I can’t even begin to explain the camaraderie of the Beachbody “family.” You have to experience it to understand. People are all shapes, sizes, and fitness levels, but none of that matters. We are ALL on the mission to END THE TREND of obesity!

I experienced a touching moment that I was actually scared to death about...thus the name of this post. I was asked in advance to give my testimony. I know my testimony well...I’ve given it many times...except to SMALL groups of people. If you know me intimately, you know that I’m a “quiet leader.” I don’t like to be the center of attention...I’m much more comfortable supporting and mentoring folks.

Well, this was a group of about 200+ people that I was going to stand before...and I knew that in the audience would be my family, including my brother, who is part of my testimony. I knew that I couldn’t say no...that I had to face my fear...and DO IT.

The night before the event, I was in the hotel room going over my testimony in my head...except I was stressing myself out so much that I was having trouble remembering it! Are you kidding me?!?!?!!?!

I woke up the next morning more calm. I knew that I HAD to do this...for me...for my family. No backing down.

When the time came to talk, I was handed the mike and faced the group...took a breath and began...and it is came. Out came the reason that I began this coaching journey in the first place...to help my brother with his subsequent medical care from a brain tumor. I didn’t have to think about what to say because I had lived it.

Here’s the part that got me...my brother, for the first time, was there and heard me talking about him...heard how he is responsible for my business success...how he drove me to succeed. At the end, when I told the group that he was in the audience, everyone applauded which absolutely warmed my heart. He is a TRUE hero!

As I sat down, I glanced at my mom who had tears streaming down her face. (Note to self...don’t ever look at mom while talking in front of a group or you won’t stay composed.)

Once in my seat and my nerves subsided, I felt overwhelmingly PROUD of myself!!!! I faced a fear...and did it anyways.

Do you have fears? Do you let them paralyze you? I used to, so I understand. Push thru it. Coming out the other side is one of the most gratifying feelings in the world.

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Tags:Beachbody**Confidence

Again, I’ve taken a little time away from blogging. When I do that, it’s because I need to get my thoughts in order from life spinning a tad out of control. Balance...it’s something that I’m continually striving for. Sometimes I find it, but it’s a slippery little sucker and often gets away from me. Thus I’m on a quest.

I tend to take a lot on...simply my nature. I’m working really hard right now to grow my business. I see the end result of how it will benefit my family. It’s already benefiting my family...but in my myopic focus, other things sometimes get lost. So I step back from time to time to breath.

Anyways, several things have happened since I last blogged: we have a tentative time that my hubby will return from overseas, we’ve started a fight with Tricare about covering my son’s occupational therapy, and I’m dealing with some newer behavioral issues with my son. Wow...and I’ve only been away from blogging for a week! Whew!

I’m trying to think if anything funny has happened the past week, but unfortunately I think it was more of a stress-filled one. I think that I’m simply blogging today to get back into the game and get my thinking on straight. I love that blogging is more about writing for myself...like a diary that people are peeking at.

So, I move forward on the tight rope...slowly...trying to keep my balance....and breath.

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Tags:Personal**Deployment

Dream.

Something I LOVE to do at night. Something I’m doing more and more while awake! My dreams are weaving into reality!

I’m not gonna get all “preachy” on you about Beachbody and how it’s changed my life (except it HAS...physically, financially, self-development wise, yada, yada, yada.)

Let me tell you what happened today, so that you’ll understand...

First of all, today I made my highest paycheck to date...ever...even working overtime as a nurse. Pinch me. Hard.

Next, and yea, it sounds like it’s out of of left-field, but stick with me...my FAVORITE vacations ever are cruises. Hands down. Well..I’ve been wanting to go on Royal Caribbean’s Oasis of the Sea for quite some time...like a few years. Also turns out that Beachbody has this wonderful way of rewarding coaches for hard work well done. The Success Club trip in March just happens to be on the Oasis of the Sea!!!!! AND I qualified to be on it. AND I officially have sent everything in as of today.

So I’ll be sipping drinks from glasses with tiny umbrellas while lounging in the sun with my friends. Heaven. Oh yea, AND working out with Shawn T live because he’ll be there doing Insanity workouts for us. WOOT!

Just when I think things can’t get better, they DO!

Another reward that Beachbody is giving to the TOP TEN coaches (and a guest) of 2010 from the company is a one-week cycling adventure through France with the CEO of the company. MY coach found out today that she is “unofficially” (until Monday) #3...out of 50,000ish coaches. That’s a one-week, all-expenses paid trip to F-R-A-N-C-E!!!!

Guess who was my coach’s very first coach 3 years ago? ME!

Guess who she asked today to accompany her to France as her guest?!?!??!!? Come on...give you one guess...

Ooohhhhhh yea.....Ooohhhhhhh yea...MEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!

People, just four years ago, I was a stressed-out nurse working 50+ hours/week to make it...while also being a mom and military wife. If you would have told me four years ago what my life would be like today, I would have looked at your pupils to see if they were dilated (as in what are you smoking?)

Now I’m making more money than I ever have, am home with my son, and have travel planes this year to the Caribbean and France!!!!!!!!!!!

I’m tired and need to go to sleep now, but I don’t know if my dreams will be able to surpass what today has been for me.

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Tags:Beachbody**Business**Coaching**Personal

I took about a week off from blogging during the holidays...some much needed rest, although I’m still not completely recharged.

My son and I took a plane to Washington DC to spend New Years with my BFF and her kids.

Think we could ever go anywhere without “something” happening? Think again.

We were sitting on the plane...it was full...lots of babies and children. Jacob was in the window seat. I was in the middle.

We took off. Uneventful. Nice. Lots of beautiful scenery.

We hit the 10,000 feet level and the pilot turned off the seatbelt sign. Me...being very diligent in my health & fitness (psst...actually feeling kind of guilty for my lack of restraint in eating and drinking sodas over Christmas, but that’s just between us.)...brought my Cambelbak water bottle with me.

Anyways, so at 10,000 feet, I lean over to grab my water bottle for a drink.

I undid the drink spout...and I kid you not...the water SHOT straight up in the air through the spout, hitting the top of the plane!!!!!!!!!!! You know those gorgeous water fountains? Yea, like that.

I was in SHOCK. I wasn’t even sure what was happening at first....but immediately put my finger over the spout and closed it. This was at the same time as the wave of water came back down on top of my head, the people in front of me, the people behind, and the chick next to me. At the same time, people were screaming around us!!!!!!!! They thought something happened to the plane!!!!!!!!

The bottle must have been under pressure from the take off. I swear, I can’t make this stuff up.

The flight attendants were in the front of the plane starting to serve drinks. I quickly calmed everyone down around me, telling them it was my water, not the plane breaking apart. My son looked at me and said “Mom, your mascara is running.” (Honestly, do you notice a theme with my blog posts? My mascara always seems to run. Note to self: get waterproof mascara.)

I summoned the flight attendant because I needed something to mop up the water off of the ceiling and the seats. She said that she has NEVER seen something like that happen with a water bottle. Figures.

and those are the Days of Our Lives.

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Tags:Personal

I’m so tired. In fact, I probably shouldn’t attempt writing when I’m this tired, but I want to “be” in the moment. Forgive any rambling.

I’m in a Disney hotel room...up super early...because someone’s car alarm went off for like 20 minutes straight. I figured when I didn’t get a call from the front desk, it wasn’t mine. I’m now running, however, on 5 hours sleep...which isn’t pretty for anyone coming in contact with me...but I digress.

The holidays have turned out to be particularly difficult for my son & I with my hubby deployed. It caught me by surprise but started with Thanksgiving and has been a gift that has kept on giving. These are our first holidays apart...ever.

So, I wanted to do something special. We already have Disney annual passes, but I went ahead and bought tickets to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.

This is my critique of last night...

We started out at Disney’s Hollywood Studios in the late afternoon. I wanted to show my son the Osbourne Dancing Lights. Can I just tell you that it didn’t disappoint? It was absolutely BREATHTAKING. Definitely an experience to have and savor. We sat down for a while and just looked in awe. It was even “snowing” in an area...which the kids loved. So, we stayed until about 7pm...then headed to our party.

The Christmas party is held after-hours. I can’t begin to explain the thrill of watching masses of people exit the park while you enter. You feel so special...of course I bought the “specialness” but who cares. It was cool.

The night was up and down emotionally. I guess I should expect that when we are both sugared up from the free cookies and hot chocolate throughout the park. Plus it was late at night and chilly. We took turns whining.

I really am conflicted in whether....oy...there goes that car alarm again!...it was worth paying extra for the party since we already have annual passes. I’m still trying to decide. Basically we were paying for smaller crowds...it was like a fast pass on everything...and holiday treats.

The most thrilling moment that we had...seriously...is when we walked on Splash Mountain....literally NO crowd...we had the boat TO OURSELVES! I’ve never been told at Disney to “sit wherever you want.” We sat in front. Yea, we got wet...really wet...mascara-running wet. Wow...it was even more chilly when we were wet. Hmmmmmm...wonder if THAT is WHY we were the only ones on the ride?!??!??!!

All in all, it was a fun, sleep-deprived night, but if you already have passes, I wouldn’t spend the extra money for the party. Not worth it, in my opinion. On the other hand, if you don’t have passes or other tickets, it IS worth it. You’ll get your money’s worth.

With that, it’s time to go find some coffee...

Tags:Disney

Wow...today is my 3 year anniversary of becoming a Beachbody coach. In 2007, I had NO idea how much that decision would change my life...had I known, it probably would have scared me.
 

I became a coach simply because I wanted to pay it forward and help others as I had been helped. With the support of MY coach and the Beachbody community, I had lost 25 lbs. Now it was my turn to support others.
 
Over the course of the 3 years, my customers have lost a combined total of over 1000 lbs!!!!!! THAT is incredible! To even have a small part in that makes me feel wonderful.
 
...and the friends that I've made within the Beachbody community...AMAZING! Some of my closest friends I met through Beachbody. I treasure these people!
 
When I became a coach, I really didn't view my decision as a business decision. In fact, I didn't care if I made any money. About 6 months into coaching, I discovered that, yes, this IS a business and it was my own business. Huh?!?!!? I'm a business owner?!?!?! NO WAY! I dove into learning all that I could from a business perspective...all while continuing to pay it forward.
 
As a result, over the past 3 years, I've had the honor of helping a family member with medical bills, bought my first new car in 10 years, have a nest egg, no credit card debt, have IRA for myself, husband AND son, traveled all over the country (I'm ready now to travel OUTSIDE the country...hint...hint), and am saving to build a new home. Oh yea...all of this is while being a stay-at-home mom. Snap!
 
The surprise for me came when I realized that coaching is also a journey of self-discovery. I've had to take a good look at my character strengths and weaknesses. Sometimes it's been painful. Sometimes it's been exhilarating.
 
I'm excited to see what the next few years will be like. Our goal is to bring my husband home to help with the business full-time. I think it will happen sooner than later.
 
Beachbody has been an incredible blessing, and I'm grateful that I'm a part of this amazing company and group of people.

Tags:Beachbody**Coaching**Weight-loss

I dream BIG...always have ever since I was a little girl.

The difference between then and now?

My dreams are now called GOALS...and I’m steadily moving towards them.

We’ve been saving to build a house when hubby’s deployment is over. We both have specific things we want included in the house.

Wellllll...I’m so excited! There is a house about 20 min from us that I have looked at every time we pass it and have commented how much I like it. Not kidding! EVERY time. Two weeks ago, I saw that it a For Sale sign in the front yard. NO WAY! Granted...I’ve never seen the inside, had no clue how big, nothing.

Yesterday I stopped on the way home and copied down the realtor’s info. I figured why not? Once I arrived home and was settled, I found the house on their website.

Can I just say OH MY GOODNESS?!?!?!?!!!!!?!?!?! It’s literally EVERYTHING that we want in a house and MORE...including more space and money that we intended to spend. It’s on 5 acres, 5 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, huge kitchen, hardwood floors, mother-in-law suite above the garage, and on and on. It’s GORGEOUS!

I gave hubby the link when I skyped with him. He’s supposed to check it out and get back with me today. Fingers crossed that the price isn’t gonna freak him out. Besides...its a buyers market...I’m sure we can get the price down.

I’ve even been given the name of a realtor to help us from a trusted friend.

If it doesn’t work out, will I be disappointed? Of course, but I’ll take it all in stride. The AMAZING thing is that we can even CONSIDER buying it!!!!!!!

So my dream of having my dream house is actually a GOAL...and We WILL have it!

Tags:Goals

I can’t believe how many calls/texts/emails/comments/messages I’ve received since my post about our son’s difficulties. Thank you so much to EVERYONE. It’s nice to know that we aren’t alone in this...nor the first to experience it.


I wanted to update you a week later. Trust me...it’s just my nature...but I believe in finding a specialist for specialized issues. Yes, we all need a great general practitioner, but I like to have my ducks in a row and be sure that I’m doing the right thing. The day after our eye-opening visit at our pediatrician’s office, I found a great child psychiatrist as I searched for a counselor. We got in the same day. It was even MORE eye-opening...


Turns out that our son DOES have ADHD...but not the hyper-activity piece of it as we thought...only ADD. Any “hyperactivity” he has is actually based out of anxiety. I never knew!!!! She switched him to another med more appropriate and said that he actually DOESN’T have panic disorder...it’s more anxiety of unspecified category. There is also a STRONG possibility that there is a genetic predisposition, but because he was adopted, I don’t know. I suspect yes.


He will be starting play-therapy in a few week to give him a “bag of tricks” to pull from when feeling anxious. He’s only been taking the medication for a week, but I’m already seeing a difference...thankfully.


I’ve been asked by some “Are you going to continue homeschooling? Maybe you should put him in school?” Ummmmmm...that’s a big N-O. We didn’t start homeschooling because of this and we won’t stop because of it. We homeschool because we feel “called” to do so...and consider it an amazing privilege to be able to teach our child. We live in such different times. We feel blessed that we are able to give him a strong foundation to take into the future.


So I end this post with this...parents, do not be afraid to seek help when you need it. It doesn’t reflect on your parenting at all. It can be the greatest gift you ever give yourself AND your child! Now, go hug on your kids!

Tags:Deployment**ADHD

Smooth sailing.

THAT’S what I though we had going on for this deployment.

Turns out, I was wrong...and kicking myself for not recognizing it earlier.

Without getting into graphic detail, our son has been having some occasional anxiety and intermittent panic attacks since his dad deployed 8 months ago...except I didn’t recognize it as anxiety or panic attacks. Yea, yea, I’m a nurse...and I swear I’m a rockin’ one...but somehow I didn’t see it...

...until 3 days ago. He just had a “freak out” as he refers to it 4 days prior. It actually takes about 4 or 5 days for things to return to normal after one of these episodes because we have 3 or 4 days of a “break down” as he refers to it. So, 3 days ago, I start to put pieces of the puzzle together and BOOM, a lightbulb goes off. It was clear as day, and we needed to get into his pediatrician right away.

Right away was today. Three days before Thanksgiving, and she gets us in right away. I just love Dr. Sarah. I told her all of the pieces that I’ve pulled together...complaints of headaches, stomach aches, biting nails, “freak outs”, “break downs”, etc. It was amazing to hear him explain how he feels to Dr. Sarah. In fact, he flat out impressed both of us with his insight. He described his “freak out” to be like an earthquake and the “break down” to be like the tsunami caused by the earthquake.

She had him take an anxiety questionnaire. He had taken one a year ago during his initial ADHD evaluation and diagnosis. Last year, he scored in the normal range. Today he scored among the highest she’s seen...meaning...my poor kid is STRESSED! You have to understand...his daddy is his BEST FRIEND. They are TIGHT.

He ended up being diagnosed with Panic Disorder and Separation Anxiety Disorder. I will be looking for a good counselor for him to talk about this, plus we’ve started him on medication. I’m not one to put a child on medication. In fact, we chose to skip medication for the ADHD. Instead I’ve changed how I teach him, have learned coping techniques, and he’s receiving occupational therapy. All have helped him tons. The anxiety, on the other hand, isn’t something that I can completely fix. It could be a brain chemistry thing coupled by the stress of deployment. No one should feel like that...have panic attacks...thus I didn’t hesitate on the medication. Actually I had already researched it (the RN in me) and knew what med was appropriate.

So, I go to bed tonight feeling like I’ve done the best I could today for my child. A piece of me is frustrated with myself for letting this go on for so long, but I just didn’t “see” it. I have to simply let that go...and allow us to sail with the wind.

Tags:Deployment**ADHD

Ugh.......how to deal with the stress of a deployment? I thought that I had this thing down. I mean, we are in the last stage of it...only 4 months to go...that’s a drop in the bucket. BUT when you see your child hurting, all bets are off. Add in pms...recipe for disaster.

It has been a very tiring past few days. I’m going on little sleep. Our son has been having almost like panic attacks the past few nights. It’s always about something different, but when I can strip away all of the “stuff,” it’s about lose. I know that we are not the only family going thru this. I know that there is a lot of help out there. I may need to seek it.

These past few nights have led to yucky days for me. I’m a girl who needs sleep. I have a hard time functioning without it. Needless to say, I’ve missed my workouts the past few mornings. If I don’t workout, I tend to also not eat healthy. For me, it’s a hand-in-hand deal. Not working out or eating well makes me feel awful.

...and I currently feel awful.

Which sucks...

Cuz I’ve sooooo been in the zone the past few weeks...have felt on top of the world.

I know that I have to cut myself some slack, but it’s very hard to. Lots of people depend on me. I don’t like to let people down. I know that this is just a “moment” I’m having...that I’ll work my way out of it. It can be such a quick slippery-slope into a pit. I can’t go there. I refuse to.

Just please don’t put me on a pedestal. I’m no different than anyone else. I don’t have super powers or some amazing secret. I’m simply me...doing the best I can.

Tags:Deployment

My heart breaks for kids today. Bullying has been taken to a whole new level in our society, and some of our kids feel that their only choice is to take their own lives. I just heard yesterday that a 16 year old committed suicide due to cyber-bullying in the past week.

I was the victim of bullying in junior high school by a group of popular “mean girls.” Ever see the movie “Mean Girls”? Yep, like that.

While yes, they made my life miserable during that time...and yes, the teachers were aware and did nothing...NEVER did I consider taking my life. In fact, they helped make me who I am today...and I LOVE who I am! It actually made me very sensitive to others feelings, and I can often sense subtle nuances that others may not.

Now, I’m not going to pretend that I enjoyed the bullying. It brought with it baggage that I carried for many years. I mean, the bullying occurred during an important time of a girl’s emotional development. I didn’t trust people...was very careful about who I allowed into my life to see the “real” me. I didn’t trust my own decisions at times and lacked self-confidence. Sure, I could fake it, but who couldn’t?

I went on to become a registered nurse at a family member’s suggestion...and a damn good one at that...but I never felt truly fulfilled. I was settling...but again, it was something that I had learned...to settle. I never woke up jazzed that I had to go to work. Yes, I loved helping people...that piece was part of my fabric...but going to a high-stress environment didn’t make me happy. I didn’t enjoy the adrenaline rush.

Then Beachbody came into my life...at first just to get me back into shape, but then to change my entire being. Over the past 3 years, I have finally been healed and am whole. I wake up in the morning EXCITED about what the day will hold. I NEVER feel like I’m working. I still get to help people, but now I’m helping myself at the same time...by doing what I LOVE. I would do this even if I didn’t get paid...BUT I DO!!!!!!!! How crazy is that?!?!?!?! I have some of the most amazing friends ever. I feel a passionate fire that I’ve never felt before. I’m FULFILLED. I’m HAPPY.

I am who I am...take it or leave it...it’s up to you...and I’m ok with it either way...

Which brings me back to the bullying from years past...I’m not angry with the girls...I’m not resentful. I’m actually even “friends” with some of them on Facebook. I wish that the kids of today who are experiencing bullying could see into the future...could see that good CAN come out of it...to NOT give up.

Tags:Confidence**Personal

I seriously love my life...as crazy as it is. Such a blessing to be able to homeschool our son. It’s so much FUN.

I hated history growing up. It was so dry and boring. I actually had a teacher in 8th grade who had a pattern to his quizes...T, F, T, F or T, T, F, F. I just had to figure out the pattern with the first few questions, then zone out for the everything else. I made an “A” in that class! I learned nothing. So basically I’m learning history all over again WITH my child...and we both are really enjoying it. I can make it come alive with the different books we use...with field trips. We went to Williamsburg, VA this summer...under the guise of vacation, but it counts as school! How crazy awesome is that!?!?!?!

Today we get to have a civics lesson when I take him with me to vote. An actual hands-on experience about the process of democracy.

Another cool thing about being home with him all the time is that he is seeing how small business works. He’s watching as I grow my biz from the ground up...turning dreams into reality. The good ole’ American dream at work.

I didn’t realize how closely he was watching me until he “presented” us a few weeks ago with a business plan for a comic business. The plan actually made sense and was solid! He’s waiting for his daddy to return from Afghanistan to get the business going, so he’s saving his capital in the meantime. I’m so proud of him.

Tags:homeschool**Business

My story will start 6 years ago. I was working as a RN Manager in a home health agency...working 50 hours/week easily. My hubby, Keith, was away in another state training for deployment overseas. Our 3 year old son was spending 50 hours/week in daycare.

Keith came home about 3 months into the training for a 2 week break. Turns out he came home to a very stressed-out wife and angry little boy. I was living it...I didn’t see it.

During those 2 weeks, we made a life-changing decision. I was going to quit my job and become a stay-at-home mom. Yes, it was a HUGE pay cut, but whatever.

Fast forward 3 years. I woke up one morning...and really looked at myself in the mirror...as 25 pounds overweight. I felt gross. I didn’t feel like myself. I turned on the TV and saw, for the first time, an infomercial for Slim in 6. I had never heard of it...I had never heard of Beachbody...but I made the decision right there to order it.

I had GREAT results. I fell in love with the programs...the company...the people.

Three months later, I made the decision to become a Beachbody coach because I wanted to “pay it forward.” I understood...well...the issues with emotional eating. I wanted to help others.

Let’s fast forward another 3 years...today my coaching business is thriving. I’m happier than I’ve been in a very long time. I have dreams that I’m watching come true. I’m in better shape that I’ve been in a very long time. I’m more confident...as a woman...than I ever have been. I’m still a stay-at-home mom but currently make more money than I did working those 50 hours/week...AND I still get to help people...which is why I became a nurse to begin with.

Am I a continual work in progress? Absolutely. Will I continue to change? Yep. Will I fall and have to pick myself up? Uh huh. Do I have to continue to strive for balance between work and family/friends? Most definitely. Would I change a thing? No way.

LIfe is really REALLY good!

Tags:Beachbody**Coaching

This is a role that tends to take a back seat for me. I’m too busy being a mom and wife.

With the encouragement of my best friend, I did something that was completely out of the norm for me...something that helped me reconnect to the woman in me...something that my husband also totally appreciated when I surprised him...

I had pictures taken.

If you know me, you know that I HATE having pictures taken. I don’t like to be center of attention. I’m more comfortable being BEHIND the camera.

Well, I wanted to give my husband a gift that he could take back to Afghanistan for the rest of his deployment. Turns out I actually gave a gift to myself.

I was nervous.

I briefly considered drinking beforehand. I didn’t.

I met my photographer at a gorgeous location. I already had a vision in my head of what I was looking for. I had shared the vision with my photographer a few months prior. She helped bring it to reality.

She spent the first few minutes just chatting with me. She made me feel totally comfortable...at ease.

Then we started the photoshoot.

The water was freezing...a fish bit my toe...mud was all over me. IT WAS SO MUCH FUN!!!!!!!! SERIOUSLY!!!!!

It wasn’t, however, until I saw the proofs that I really reconnected with the woman in me. Who WAS this woman staring back at me from the photos? It felt surreal. This was ME?!?!?!?! My husband had been telling me this all along during our 19 years together, but I don’t think that I believed him...no, I KNOW that I didn’t believe him. He was my husband. He had to say that.

It was an incredibly liberating experience...I’m thankful to have done it and have actually already scheduled another shoot.

Ladies, don’t be afraid to push yourself out of your comfort zone. DO something a bit crazy. Have fun. We are MORE than moms and wives...we are WOMEN! OWN IT!

Oh, btw, he LOVED my gift.

Tags:Confidence**Woman