Reading Challenge 2015

I'm doing a reading challenge with friends this year. A 50 book challenge, but with limitations. I'll update this post as it goes. Hoping I succeed with this year's challenge, as I was a few shy for 2014.

The Challenge


A book with more than 500 pages-

A classic romance-

A book that became a movie-

A book published this year-

A book with a number in the title-

A book written by someone under 30-

A book with nonhuman characters-

A funny book-

A book by a female author-

A mystery or thriller-

A book with a one-word title-

A book of short stories-

A book set in a different country-

A nonfiction book-

A popular author's first book-

A book from an author you love that you haven't read yet-

A book a friend recommended-

A Pulitzer Prize winning book-

A book based on a true story-

A book at the bottom of your to-read list-

A book your Mom loves-

A book that scares you-

A book more than 100 years old-

A book based entirely on its cover-

A book you were supposed to read in school but didn't-

A memoir-

A book you can finish in a day - Flirting with Felicity by Gerri Russell

A book with antonyms in the title-

A book set somewhere you've always wanted to visit-

A book that came out the year you were born-

A book with bad reviews-

A trilogy-

A book from your childhood-

A book with a love triangle-

A book set in the future-

A book set in high school-

A book with a color in the title-

A book that made you cry-

A book with magic-

A graphic novel-

A book by an author you've never read before-

A book you own but have never read-

A book that takes place in your hometown-

A book that was originally written in a different language-

A book set during Christmas-

A book written by an author with your same initials-

A play-

A banned book-

A book based on or turned into a TV show-

A book you started but never finished-

Painting Projects

I've started to have painting contractors come through to give me estimates on painting this week. I cannot wait to have these projects done! Ceilings, master bedroom, guest room, main bathroom, living room ceiling and the hallway are on the to-do list. This house needs a face lift, badly. No more beige!

I haven't been reading much this week, but I'd like to start those new books I mentioned in my last post. Hopefully I can squeeze them in. Party planning for Sam's birthday is underway, and I'm looking forward to celebrating with my family. They're making the trip in from the Midwest and staying through Easter. So thrilled.

Back to the painting, I'm thinking a light gray for the bedroom with lavender/purple/blue-ish accents. The guest room will be painted a light buttercream yellow. I'm still thinking about colors for the hallway. The ceilings are going to look wonderful with a couple coats of paint! Then, when the walls are all done, I can start putting up some art and decorative frames.

And even if we end up moving, the house will have a fresh coat of paint and look wonderful for the next owner! Boom, baby!

Spring? Is that you?

What a difference sunshine makes! It's a gorgeously sunny Saturday morning. Breakfast has been made, messes cleaned, coffee sipped, and now I sit with a few minutes to myself. Is there anything better? I have a few ideas about that, but I'll just be thankful for what I have at the moment.

Today we're going to tour some venues for our son's third birthday. I'm almost positive I know which one it will be, but I'll take the husband so he can give input. I've also been doing a lot of online window shopping for furniture. We need new couches, and I need a dresser this year. Actually, I needed it last year, but I haven't found the one for the right price. I'm thinking a light colored wood, with a sea-color on the wall, for the maximum amount of relaxation.

Our toddler is stretching his wings lately, so I need all the relaxation I can get. It's a phase, it's only a phase!

I have a few more books in the queue for this month, including Concealed In Death by JD Robb and Shattered, the third book in the Hidden series by M. Lathan.

February is almost over! How did that happen?

Crochet

I'm pleased that I've learned a new skill set. I'm on project two of single crocheting a scarf. The first one had some mistakes, as I expected, but I was still proud of the finished product. The second scarf is for me, colors "Oceana". It's going to be long and narrow, able to be wrapped several times. I can't wait to see how it's going to turn out! There's a huge sense of accomplishment in making something by hand, that I can't adequately explain. I want to learn to double crochet next, followed by knitting. It'd be nice to be able to make pretty things. And eventually, I'd like to pass these skills on. I'm already working on a recipe book, making sure I document my 'signature' meals.

I'm thrilled with my progress so far. I've taken a small break from reading to crochet, but I will come back to it shortly. I can never stay away from a good story for too long.

Here's a picture of the first completed project, modeled by my toddler;

Happy Homemaking!

Technology...

Is my nemesis today. I've tried a million times to upload a picture and it doesn't seem to be working. Riddle me this; how can a person who can read HTML have issues with a click here uploader? It's madness. Total madness.

Tonight I'm trying a new recipe from the Cooking Light magazine. The link is: Chicken with Honey Beer Sauce. I'm hoping it's delicious. I need a new chicken recipe under my belt, and this looks beyond simple.

In other frigid news, we got another six inches or so yesterday. I would like to take Sammy outside, but the windchill is in the negatives. Bummer. Here's to hoping tomorrow might be a bit warmer, so we can make a snowman!

I bought two more books today; Blood of the Lamb by Michael Lister and Dead Center by Danielle Girard. Both are crime drama. I'm taking a break from supernatural/fantasy series for the moment, as I just finished 5 in a row.

Any good book rec's are welcomed!

Edit: Hah! Take that! I fixed it. /fist pump

Weird Wednesday

Today has been odd. You know when you're agitated with something or someone and you rant to a close friend/family member? I did that this morning. And then, the weirdest thing happened; I got two phone calls that were complete rants about more serious things. Is it bad that I totally feel better about my small stuff? And then I wondered to myself, "Do I sound like this?" and if I do, I'm sorry. Man, what a downer. So, now, I'm turning all that excess energy into cleaning the house. I'll make things brighter until I feel brighter. And it's totally worked.

Just a weird Wednesday.

I have several books in the queue, but haven't started a new one yet. If everything goes smoothly for the rest of the day, I might start one. We'll see.

This weekend we have two parties to go to, a half hour apart for start times. How do you choose who to go to first? And who to be late to? Or do you not go to one? I'm still trying to figure out how it's going to work.

In the meantime, I guess I can sit and admire my clean house.

Mother Nature, Monday

As I'm sitting inside today, my Dad tells me that the actual temperature is -15 degrees. The windchill? -41. That brings a whole new meaning to 'cold'. I'm grateful for a warm house and a roof over my head today. Maybe I'll put that in the gratitude jar. Here, it's cold, with a mix of snow, sleet, and freezing rain. Thankfully, B is working from home today.

This morning I finished the book, Champion by Marie Lu. It's the final book in the Legend series. I wanted it to continue on further than it did, but I liked the way the author ended it. The characters were developed wonderfully, and I find myself thinking about them, even after I've finished. It's a mark of a good series. (Like, In Death's Eve and Roarke!)

Now, onto something else... Although I'm not sure what the next book will be.

Warm wishes on this cold, snowy Monday afternoon.

Timebound and The Line

The first book of the year has been completed! A few days before January 1st, I stumbled upon a new subscription called "Kindle First." If you're a Prime member and subscribe, they send you an email with a choice of four books. Pick one of four, and buy it for free.

The first book I read (last year, hah!) was called Timebound by Rysa Walker. It didn't qualify for my 2014 reading challenge, but I'm compelled to review it any way. Clearly, as the title implies, it's about time travel. More specifically, bouncing in between times, without damaging the timeline. This book asks, "What would happen if someone wanted to shape history?" It's an interesting question, and though the main character is young, the journey was interesting. It really lends credit to the phrase, "Time is relative." I know a few of the reviewers weren't happy with the book, but I soaked up the details. There's a bit of history woven in, (not as seamless and amazing as A Discovery of Witches) and it's interesting enough to keep you flipping pages.

The second book I've read this week, or the first for the year, whichever way you want to look at it, is The Line by J.D. Horn. This is my second pick from the Kindle First subscription. It's about a young woman, Mercy, twin to Maisie, who finds herself powerless in Savannah's most powerful witching family. First, let me say, I was really reticent to read another young adult witch novel. There have been some really great ones, and some really cringe-worthy. This was a really wonderful surprise. Mercy, an almost twenty-one year old, is introduced as a fun-loving girl who gives the Liar's Tour of Savannah. At odds with an old aunt, she's mostly called 'The Disappointment' within the family for not showing any magical ability at all. And she takes it in stride. The journey was full of twists, some expected, some unexpected, but I was really pleased with how the author had Mercy deal with the plot twists. She truly was a young woman to admire. I'm happy that I found this author, and the second book in the series is coming out July 15. (Ironically, the same day as the third book in the "A Discovery of Witches" series.)

Now that I'm two books into the week, I find myself itching for another really good supernatural/fantasy book. Maybe I'll roll the dice and get lucky with an Amazon recommendation. I will say I did buy (paperback) The Diviners by Libba Bray, and I haven't been able to get into it. It's been sitting on my nightstand for two weeks, which isn't a good sign. Sorry to those who like it, but I'm thinking it falls into the 'might be a best seller, but not sellin' me on it' category.

New Year, New You

Well, not really. Same me, new goals. I'm holding myself accountable for this year's book challenge. I'm already focused on health and losing weight, so that's just more of the same. I think this year's resolution is to communicate more. It's easy to let communication slide, so this will be my focus. 2014 was brought in at the house, in front of a fire, with a healthy glass of wine and my husband by my side. Pretty great start! This morning was pancakes and bacon for the boys and later we'll take down the tree. Tomorrow we're supposed to get a decent amount of snow, so maybe a last minute run to the store for milk is in order. I'm looking forward to this year. We're hoping for good health, good luck and fertility. C'mon baby #2, we're ready for more!

Post Christmas Bliss

Christmas 2013 was a great success! Sam made out like a bandit and it was nice to have Christmas morning at our house. B and I made Christmas dinner together; ham, white & sweet potatoes, vegetables, gravy and rolls. The only mishap was slicing my finger on the mandolin. The potatoes were finger-lickin' good. Today, the kiddo and I are just relaxing. Actually, we're watching Bolt. It's one of his favorites. Christmas brought toys, clothes, and a radio (brought by Santa!) It was just a wonderful holiday. Last night, sitting by the fire, I was thinking about how blessed I am. It truly is a wonderful life.

2014 Outdo Yourself Reading Challenge

What’s your reading goal for 2014? If it’s to read more books, then this is the reading challenge for you! There have been 500+ readers who have wanted to outdo themselves so far. Are you up for the challenge?


Reading Challenge Details:

• Runs January 1, 2014 – December 31, 2014 (books read prior to 1/1/2014 do not count towards the challenge). You can join anytime before 9/30/2014. Sign up on The Book Vixen’s blog.
• The goal is to outdo yourself by reading more books in 2014 than you did in 2013. See the different levels below and pick the one that works best for you. You can move up a level as often as you’d like but no moving down.
• Books can be any format (print, ebook, audio).
• Books can be any genre (fiction, nonfiction, romance, mystery, etc.).
• Novellas that are at least 100 pages in length, as well as full-length novels, will count for this reading challenge.
• Re-reads and crossovers from other reading challenges are allowed.
• To join the challenge, grab the 2014 Outdo Yourself Reading Challenge button and post this reading challenge on your blog to track your progress. Please include a link back to this sign-up post so others can join the reading challenge too. You do not have to be a book blogger to participate; you can track your progress on Goodreads, LibraryThing, BookLikes, Libib, etc., so as long as you have a dedicated shelf for the 2014 Outdo Yourself Reading Challenge and your profile is not private. The The point of linking up is to have a place where people can see what you’re reading.

I have decided to forgo the review link-up for 2014. If you plan to review the books you read for this challenge, link them up in your 2014 Outdo Yourself Reading Challenge post.

Levels:      Getting my heart rate up – Read 1–5 more books
     Out of breath – Read 6–10 more books
     Breaking a sweat – Read 11–15 more books
     I’m on fire! – Read 16+ more books

I'm going to start out with reading 50 books for the year 2014. I hope to read more than that, but I need a jumping point.



Book List
1. The Line by J.D. Horn (1/2)
2. Prodigy by Marie Lu (1/3)
3. Champion by Marie Lu (1/6)
4. Angelfall by Susan Ee (1/7)
5. Hidden by M. Lathan (1/9)
6. Lost by M. Lathan (1/10)
7. Back on Murder by J. Mark Bertrand (1/10)
8. A Shade of Vampire by Bella Forrest (1/19)
9. A Shade of Vampire 2: A Shade of Blood by Bella Forrest (1/19)
10. A Shade of Vampire 3: A Castle of Sand by Bella Forrest (1/20)
11. A Shade of Vampire 4: A Shadow of Light by Bella Forrest (1/20)
12. A Shade of Vampire 5: A Blaze of Sun by Bella Forrest (1/21)
13. Blood of the Lamb by Michael Lister (1/23)
14. The Rosie Project by Graeme Simsion (1/24)
15. The Mind Readers by Lori Brighton (1/29)
16. The Mind Thieves by Lori Brighton (1/30)
17. The Mind Games by Lori Brighton (1/30)
18. Dead Center by Danielle Girard (2/1)
19. It Started With a Whisper by A.W. Hartoin (2/8)
20. Vampire Academy by Richelle Mead (2/9)
21. Frost Bite (VA #2) by Richelle Mead (2/10)
22. Shadow Kiss (VA #3) by Richelle Mead (2/10)
23. Blood Promise (VA #4) by Richelle Mead (2/11)
24. Spirit Bound (VA #5) by Richelle Mead (2/11)
25. Last Sacrifice (VA #6) by Richelle Mead (2/12)
26. Gilded by Christina Farley (2/20)
27. Concealed In Death by JD Robb (3/3)
28. Hidden by Catherine McKenzie (3/19)
29. The Winter Witch by Paula Brackston (3/20)
30. Fixed On You by Laurelin Page (4/8)
31. Found In You by Laurelin Page (4/8)
32. Forever With You by Laurelin Page (4/8)
33. Shadow Spell by Nora Roberts (5/21)
34. From The Moment We Met by Marina Adair (5/27)
35. City of Lost Souls by Cassandra Clare (5/28)
36. City of Heavenly Fire by Cassandra Clare (5/31)
37. First Grave on the Right by Darynda Jones (6/7)
38. The Collector by Nora Roberts (6/10)
39. Dark Triumph by Robin LaFevers (7/10)
40. The Source by J.D. Horn (7/15)
41. The Book of Life by Deborah Harkness (7/31)
42. Inamorata by Megan Chance (8/9)
43. Festive In Death by J.D. Robb (9/16)
44. If I Stay by Gayle Forman (9/17)
45. The Paper Magician by Charlie Holmberg (12/1)
46. The Glass Magician by Charlie Holmberg (12/3)
47. Girl On a Wire by Gwenda Bond (12/28)

It's Only Been Three Years

Life happens when you're trying to plan, right? In the span of those lost 'internet' years, so many things have happened. In a sort of order, we bought a house, got engaged, planned a wedding, rescued a dog "Riley", and got married in early spring of 2013. Looking back at that birth picture makes me smile. Sammy is such a little man now. He walks and talks and laughs and plays. He jumps and sings and dances and dreams. He is so much more than I ever thought I could make. We are eternally grateful for our little family. So grateful, we want to add another!

Moving cross-country has brought me so much joy. I didn't know how it would work out when I was initially thinking of it, but I'm so glad I took the chance. No marriage/relationship is perfect, but we are happy and that's what counts. I think if I would have stayed in Illinois, my life would never have changed. I'd still be acting out. I am fulfilled in ways I never knew were lacking.

I still miss my family incredibly, but there have been visits back and forth to ease the withdrawals. In fact, I had one brother out in the beginning of November and a second brother here for Thanksgiving. It's been really incredible. We've all thrived so well. I'm incredibly happy with where our family is at this time. (Now, if only we could convince Dad to move to the East Coast too...)

I'm going to try to get back into the swing of blogging. I can't promise, (clearly, since it's been almost three years) but I will try.

Tis the season for cheer, after all.

Babies and Time Management

It is a dance that slowly works itself out.. And I thought I was tired before! Samuel Christian was born on April 15th, at 9:40am and he was perfect...

And now my baby is almost two months old and almost double the weight from birth.. Amazing. He's totally amazing. I seriously sometimes get nothing done during the day because I stare at him so often. He's starting to coo and almost laugh and loves to be cuddled up on my shoulder. And being a mother is the single greatest feeling I have ever felt. It is nothing and everything like I hoped it would be. Love, love, love.

My Sammy... he's my whole world, and I share that happily with B.

Single Digits

Six days. Six whole days until my estimated due date. Time is crawling, on it's hands and knees, slower than molasses, every second feels like 30 extra. This is normal. Or, that's what everyone says. "How are you doing?" ... Really, people do not want the real answer. Because when you start with a giant list of ailments, their faces turn and they're ready to be done with the conversation. So I've started to say, "Hanging in there, just waiting.." because that's mostly what I'm doing.

Everything is ready. The clothes are organized, the house has been cleaned over and over, we have every baby device known to man shoved somewhere or other. Each drawer is labeled by size and type of outfit. I am that stir-crazy. There is literally nothing I can do, other than daily chores to keep myself occupied. For six days. Which might not even be six days - but they won't let me go past 41 weeks, supposedly. I have an appointment on Wednesday morning to check my progress for the first time. Last Tuesday, we had an ultrasound for fetal weight - 6 lbs, 8 oz - and they said I should be able to deliver naturally, since I'm only 5'2. Fantastic. Let's do it. Not right this minute, because I'd like to shave my legs first, but really, let's get the show on the road.

And it's frustrating because the people that are due after me are already having their children. I'm excited for them, I really am, I just.. man, I really want to see my son. And the little bugger seems totally content to stay put for as long as possible, no matter how much I try to coax him out... "Hey, it's Grandma talking to you - Don't you want to meet Grandma?" or "Daddy's tickling your little feet - Don't you want to say hello?" I am clearly not above begging at this point.

I totally thought I was going to go early. The joke is definitely on me.

So, yesterday I went for a haircut, got the eyebrows waxed (which B calls, "fuzzy caterpillars" .. No more) and got to catch up on a bit of reading. It was overall relaxing. Went to dinner with friends of his and their two children, and they seemed really nice. Not sure on how often we'll interact with them, but they were nice as far as first impressions go.

And I also took pictures yesterday to document the 39 week start. Here he is, my stubborn little bundle of joy:

Hopefully I'll be able to see him soon. And get to celebrate everyone else's births excitedly, because mine has finally arrived!

Fat Tuesday..

Happy Fat Tuesday! The day before Lent .. or as my brothers have deemed it - 'Inappropriate touch Tuesdays' .. followed by 'No eye contact Wednesdays' .. /laugh! I was seriously amused.

I am exhausted today; absolutely wiped. This surprises me a little because the past two nights (not counting last), I've had the most incredible sleep and have awoken refreshed and energetic. This morning, however, not so much. Can I go back to the previous nights of amazing sleep? I have a feeling that's not going to be happening often anymore. So, my goal is to take pictures at every week for the remainder, so I can see how low he drops! Last week - accomplished. This week - accomplished! So here's the 35 week picture:

It's a front shot, which we normally don't post, but I thought it'd be a nice change. My shirts have started not to cover him on the bottom of the belly! B likes to tickle the skin that's exposed when I walk around in my tee shirts, which is really cute.. but I won't tell him that. :)

Five more weeks! I can't decide if he's going to be on-time, late or early... They keep telling me he's on schedule, but I think since I want to see him so badly, he's going to make me wait.

I'm getting a little nervous for the labor and delivery part too. I guess I know what to expect, but it's a little scary since I've never experienced it before and don't really know what each tinge, pain, or whatever means. It's all a learning process, and as M tells me, if so-and-so can do this successfully, I know that you can. I just hope he's right.. I want everything to go as smoothly as possible.

Goals of the week: keep packing the hospital bag, finish washing all of little B's clothes, seriously enjoy a Shamrock shake!

 

Nightmares

Firstly, the 34 week appointment went well! He's measuring right on schedule and his heartbeat is strong. Always good things to hear when it's getting this close.

B woke me up this morning because I was sobbing in my sleep; and it was a good thing too, because I had dreamt I lost our little guy. It was so vivid! I mean, I was literally saying, "I'm 34 weeks, how is this possible?!" to the nurses. What a freaky thing... It totally shook me. Thankfully, the little bugger chose that moment to give me a little kick, letting me know that he was still there and strong.. Made me cry though, and thank God that he was still my little B.

What an ordeal... but so glad it was a nightmare and not a reality! Next appointment is in two weeks - and then every week from then! We're getting sooo close, I cannot wait! (But I must - but my impatience is starting to show...)

Week 34

Six more weeks to go! In some ways, I feel prepared; The bassinet is set up, the clothes are organized, the diapers are ready, the bath things are ready. I feel like the only thing that isn't ready is me. I'm starting to get a little nervous about the labor & delivery part of it all. B tells me it's "a natural part of life," but again, he's not the one that has to go through it. I'm just hoping that everything goes smoothly. For documentation, here's my little guy at 34 weeks:

B finally saw the belly move all on it's own last night, and he's completely fascinated. I've been seeing it for weeks, but I pay attention to all the little details like that. :) I love feeling him poke around and move and try to break free, as I call it. It's one of those things I'm going to miss when he actually gets here; although I am sure that when he gets here, I'll be so busy with other things that I'll fall in love with.

The baby shower in the Midwest went well. Everyone seemed to have a good time and we received way too much, but totally appreciated it all. I'm glad our little guy is already so loved. The next task is to finish organizing (and re-organizing I'm sure) and relax, waiting for him to get here. I know for sure that I'm going to get in trouble for the weight gain, but honestly, I am eating well and I don't feel like starving myself to stay in that "minimum" gain. And I'm sure I'll be told, "Drink more water," but I drink it all the time. Just means I'll have extra weight to lose when he's here.. And it's not as if I look horrendous; my front just protrudes!

I can't believe how much I love this kiddo already and he's not even here yet... I am going to be so overwhelmed when I see him for the first time, I just know it. And as if he knows I'm talking about him, I get a little hand indentation in the belly. This kid is a miracle.

Heart Explosion Day..

Valentine's Day was a complete success! I did a test run on a giant cookie, and the second one came out perfect for B. Plus, it was something that I knew he'd love.

And of course, I also got him a card. We made dinner reservations at 7 and when we got there, there was a beautiful vase of flowers on the table and a card waiting for me.. After he told me he didn't get me anything, of course. (To which I said, I don't need anything; you're already taking me out to dinner.)

So we had a really great meal and then came home and spent the rest of the night cuddled up. All in all, one of the best Valentine's Day I've ever had. We stayed up a bit too late, but he gets to nap a little now, so hopefully that will help.

Tomorrow we have a doctor's appointment early in the morning. I get so disgruntled thinking about that scale; it makes me not even want to go. I love my doctor and the nurse, but really, that scale has it out for me. I think it adds an extra five pounds every time just for spite! Then, afterwards we're supposed to head out to breakfast and then I'll come home and pack for the weekend trip home to the Midwest for our baby shower. Here's to hoping the weather holds!

Little B is doing fantastic, although he has an affinity for my ribs.. But I love just being able to sit during the day and feel him moving around and have conversation. In a lot of ways, I think I might miss being pregnant when he's born, but I am so looking forward to meeting him. Now, if we could only decide on a name!

It's a...

Turns out, I'm a horrible blogger. So much for documenting this pregnancy! I'm 31 weeks in now, and he.. (Yes, it's a boy!) is doing wonderfully. And I sort of read back through my previous entries, and if I thought I was round back then, I cannot imagine what I'd think now!

My relationship with B is going well; not without it's ups and downs, but that's every relationship. I think if I legitimately work at it (and he does too), we'll be alright. It's give and take, and of course it's not going to come without some effort. We've been talking a lot, enjoying our growing child, and working on making things work between us. It's been... well, really nice. I know I am not the easiest to get along with sometimes, but he still makes the effort. And I'm sure the monsoon of hormones didn't help in the beginning either. :)

Little B (since we haven't decided on a name yet) is my little mover and shaker. He's absolutely the most adorable thing I have ever seen -- and I haven't even met him face to face yet! I'm pretty sure all mothers feel this way about their child, but that's okay. And as if he knows I'm typing about him - he's bouncing all around. I cannot wait to meet him, and I cannot believe that I am in single digit weeks left. 9. Nine. As in, less than 10. I feel ridiculously unprepared. We have diapers and clothes, but.. I hope that I can give him everything his little heart desires. Not really in the, "I'm going to spoil you rotten" way, but in the, "I'm your mother and I want the very best for your life" way. Everyone gets nervous, right? But as I keep telling myself, if all of these people that I know can do this; I can do this. And he will be FINE. It's a mantra.

Next weekend is the baby shower back home in the Midwest. I'm hoping the weather holds up nicely, so that we'll have a safe trip there and back. The weekend coincides with my father's birthday as well, and I'd like to celebrate with him. Everyone seems really excited about Little B's arrival (not that I can blame them..) and that makes me feel relieved. I will have to report how the baby shower turns out - as it is being thrown by my mother and her side of the family - and that is always a story in itself.

But for now, here's a picture of the belly at 27 weeks - B and I need to take some more soon!

It's Been Awhile

It's been awhile
Since I can say that I wasn't addicted
And it's been awhile since I can say I love myself as well and
And it's been awhile since I've gone and fucked things up just like I always do
And it's been awhile but all that shit seems to disappear when I'm with you

Life is good. Really good. As in, I am really grateful for how things are going and where I'm at in life and yes. Thank god the hormones are back to normal. I feel like me! 15 weeks in, and I feel like a normal, but more round person!

Things with B and I are progressing nicely. No fighting, no drama, nothing but spending quality time and enjoying the time we have while we have it to ourselves. And really, I couldn't ask for much more than that. I feel like sweet Mary Sunshine... And then, that makes me worry about the other shoe dropping. Oh, well. I hope the optimism lasts a bit longer, I'm really getting used to it. The kidlet and I are doing well too. I can't wait to meet him/her! We thought we might be able to see what it was at the 12 week mark, but they couldn't be 100%. So now, the next ultrasound is the day after Thanksgiving. Black Friday. Hm... Hopefully the little bugger is cooperative.

Knock on wood.

Who is this happy woman? I almost don't recognize her, it's been that long. Or.. it's been awhile.

/smirks ...