Before you were "Mommy"

Being pregnant, I follow a forum on TheBump.com for May 2014 babies.  This forum shares our fears, joys, hilarious moments, and other nonsense.  Today, however, a link to a blog post was listed, and after reading it, I knew I had to share it.

Read Blog Here

There are several points made in this post that hit home, and after speaking with several other "mommies" out there, I feel that this might be reassuring to the emotions that everyone is facing. 

Please take the post in context.  Yes, it mentions keeping God at the center of your marriage, but even if you aren't a Christian, there is still some good that you might be able to get out of the read.

Allow me to highlight a few points that I felt really hit home for me:

"When we found out that we were pregnant with my son (now 4), my husband and I became one of those “new parent” couples. We researched together, shopped together and made every choice surrounding the arrival of our new baby together."

My husband and I have planned everything baby related together as a team.  We are both super excited about the new addition to our little family and can't wait for his arrival!  I think he had more fun registering for baby stuff than I did!

"To greater prepare ourselves for baby boy’s arrival, we even took one of those courses for new parents offered by the hospital."

We are signed up to take the 1 day class February 27th.

"If only our instructor had sat us down and said, 'Ladies, before you were Mommy, you were his. Men, before you were Daddy, you were hers. Remember this. Hold on to this. Keep these words precious to you.'"

Some tend to disagree with the "you were hers" and "you were his" due to ownership and independence, but I don't think that is what the writer is meaning.  She is simply trying to explain the importance of keeping the relationship centered and remember that the love and bond that you share is there, although things might not seem like it.

My husband and I are beginning to go through the emotional struggles already and it hurts.  But we have to remember to keep strong in our relationship and trust that things are going to work out for the best.  It isn't going to be easy, and adding a baby to the mix is going to throw a wrench in everything, but it is worth it (or so I'm told). 

I might hang her words somewhere visible to both of us to help through the tough times.  Despite the harsh words and the anger, at the end of the day I love my husband and he loves me just as much, if not more.  The only thing that can tear us apart is us, and the only thing that can keep us together is us.  I didn't understand what my family meant when they said that marriage is work, but I do now.

I hope this article brings you a sense of support and retrospect.  I may still be pregnant with our first child, but I plan on nipping it in the bud as soon as I begin to see signs of struggle.

24 Weeks!

It snowed!!!  What's even better, it snowed on my 24 week mark! 

So, I just HAD to take some pictures...RIGHT?!?!

Traditional profile pic

My failed attempt at a heart

Belly shot!

I kinda love this guy!

The Monday Blues

Hello everyone, and welcome to Monday!  The beginning of a long week for some, just another day for me.

My hubs started his first week of "real" work today!  He got hired at the Casino as a Cage Cashier and he is so excited.  He has been wanting to work there since he started college years ago and finally has his chance.  He will be on third shift, but started today at 4:00 to ease into the time difference (nice of them right?).  Which means, today and tomorrow I'm alone in the evenings until he gets home after midnight.

Normally, I love having time to myself, but after last night, I could use the company.

I know and understand that being pregnant comes with difficult health issues...but insomnia was not something I was prepared for.

I did not sleep last night.  Not one hour, not one minute.  By the time Jeremiah woke up this morning, I was 1/2 functioning and my chest hurt.  Not good.  He was able to get me to sleep around 10am, but it only lasted til 2:30.  The chest pain is mostly gone, but I still feel like crap.

Then comes Wal-Mart.  I went to get some groceries with my last two WIC vouchers, and almost broke down at the checkout because I was under the fruits/veggies by a couple dollars.  I was upset because I weighed and added, and I was supposed to be a few cents over.  NOPE!  Then the woman says, "It's only $1.20."

..........

I cracked..."It's another package of veggies that we can't afford!"  She then began to make excuses...a futile attempt to make me feel better, "Maybe something was on sale that you didn't see," "Maybe you added wrong," etc.  Didn't help.

There were people in line and I just said to finish the transaction.  I know what it's like to wait while people are running around grabbing extra stuff, so I didn't want to be THAT person...but it truly upset me.

I felt stupid.

I got home and was crying, and my Dad gave me a hug and told me that "It's OK," and that, "It wasn't stupid," which helped me feel somewhat better. Then I ate some of my carrots and we talked about me not sleeping and other stuff.

I'm restless...I am trying to find something to do that won't irritate me, the DOG is irritating me...I just want my husband to be here and hold me.

If tonight isn't any better, I'm calling my OB-GYN tomorrow...I don't know if I can take another day like this. 

Path to Paperless - Part 2

It is definitely later than I had planned, but as promised, here is part duex to the Path to Paperless segment!

Yesterday, I provided some basic steps on how to begin organizing bills to rid your home of the piles.  This post is to focus on the "non-bills" such as receipts, appointment sheets, user manuals, and the like.

As before, I created a file specifically for each of the categories: Receipts, Appointments, User Manuals, etc.

My brother created an excel worksheet with a budget template (message me if you would like contact info) and it is fabulous for keeping track of finances, especially if you are a family (like us) that run paycheck-to-paycheck.  When I am not able to update the budget, I simply scan the receipts into the "Receipts" folder.

My folder for Receipts (empty atm because the budget is updated)

Folder for Appointments

 I do not currently have a user manual folder created because I will tackle those at a later date after I finish with the other paperwork that I have. 

I will use Appointments for my next example.  Within this file, I have created a folder for each location that I am going to.  I have a file for myself and for my husband, but within my file I have two Dr. offices.

Current locations I have appointments at.

Within those files, I have the appointment sheets labeled with the date of the appointment.

As the appointment date is passed, I simply delete the file.  This also helps when I am updating my online calendar.  I simply go to the "Appointments" folder and fill in the dates when it is convenient for me!

Sometimes at appointments, I get paperwork that I need to keep track of.  This is a personal choice that needs to be made BY YOU!  You can scan that paperwork into the "Appointments" file, or into the main company file.  You can also create an independent file if you wish, but I would prefer to keep it within the company file for easy reference. 

When I create the "User Manual" file, I plan on creating a folder for each item name and then scanning in the manual with the labels Page 1, Page 2, etc.  Warranty information will also be included.

As I stated in my previous post, I plan on keeping important paperwork in a hard file (ex. tax information).  Putting it into paperless form is just an easy way to organize and keep from having to search for a specific document, and also help you to purge what is needed as a hard copy and what can be thrown away. 

*Mommy tip: For those with young artists, scanning in the artwork can give you the opportunity to choose the pieces you wish to keep a hard copy of and the pieces you keep a digital copy of without hurting the young artist's feelings.  I know many mothers who scan in their children's art and then get collages printed for hanging.*

I hope that this segment has helped spark the beginnings of a new, organized household!  Again, if there are ANY questions, feel free to ask!  

Path to Paperless!

Paperless...this is a word that has grown in meaning now that technology has pretty much taken over the way we run our lives.  It is a process that is difficult in the beginning, but holds great benefits such as less stress, ease of searching, and space saving to name a few.

Before I dig into the how's, let's look at the true definition of "paperless."

pa·per·less adj. Not requiring paper because of the use of computers and other electronic media to record, convey, and store information.

Let me list what you will need to begin this life-changing process: 

~ Computer

~ Scanner

~ Shredder (Optional)

~ Staple Remover

I chose to let my husband's inner pyromaniac come out and burn the papers that held personal information, but you can shred them if you would prefer.

Let me begin by saying that many "how-to" websites lead the individual to use Evernote.  While this is a wonderful program, the free version does not allow you the functions of the paid version (I won't pay for something I don't necessarily need), and to scan into Evernote requires a scanner that is compatible with the program.  I have my Cannon 3-in-1 and it works great.  I use the Windows Scan and Fax (pre-installed on any Windows computer) and just save the files into my virtual filing cabinet.

The first step to become paperless is to gather any papers that you see lying around.  This can be tedious.  You then take one paper at a time and ask yourself, "Do I need this?"  If the answer is yes, then scan it.  After scanning, ask yourself, "Do I need to keep this hard copy?"  If the answer is yes, set it aside in a folder/container for later.  If the answer is no, shred or trash the paper.  Voila!  You have begun the process!  Continue to do this for however long you would like.  I chose to scan about 25 pages at a time.  If the pages are front/back, I would scan both sides.

"So many pages...what do I do now???"

I will try to be as clear as possible with this next explanation. 

Create a file on your desktop.  I named my file Paperless Files.  Inside that folder, I created a folder for each company that I had a file for.  For example: I have a lot of medical bills that are past due from when I had chemotherapy.  As you can see below, I created a file for each bill source. In each folder, I created sub-folders.  I'll use Blue Ridge for my example. 

All of the different billers

I created folders for the Bills and the EoB's from my insurance

Under Bills, I created a folder for my husband and myself.

I created different folders for the various types of bills they send (some dates are grouped). Weird right???

Individual bills have a folder for each account number to keep them organized.

Then I just save the file by the statement date since it is already in the account folder.

Everyone will have their own filing system.  I tried to map mine out before scanning, but it went a lot quicker after I scanned and just started saving the files where I wanted them (creating the folders along the way).

I hope this wasn't too confusing.  If there are ANY questions, PLEASE feel free to ask and I will do my best to clarify.  Do not expect this to happen overnight, the next day, or even the same week.  It is a life-changing process that takes time.

In tomorrow's post, I will be covering how to organize the non-bills that you will come across (such as receipts, appointment reminders, user manuals, and others). 

To Be Continued...

Hey everyone!

I had planned on starting my segment on my process of becoming paperless, but I have been feeling under the weather today.  Not a cold or stomach bug, just feeling unusually exhausted and crampy...blame the baby??? 

I'll get that fabulous challenge posted tomorrow and Sunday so that you can be proactive beginning the new week! 

Hope everyone had an amazing Friday! 

~Tippy

Nothing Fancy

No fancy post today. 
No illusions.
No facades.
No omissions.
Just me...

I have been racking my brain for a post topic, but all I keep thinking about it myself and the rawness of how I feel.

I don't know if there is someone that needs to read this message, or if it is for my personal gain (saneness maybe?).  But here it is...

A couple weeks before Christmas, I moved to Franklin without my husband...he worked his two-week notice at his job.  The weekend before the holidays, he joined me.  We were fortunate enough for him to get hired on at Harrah's Casino in Cherokee, and I was lucky enough to be offered a full-time position as well.

I wish I could say that I accepted the position...but I turned it down.

I am almost 22 weeks pregnant...not a good time to begin a new endeavor.  After speaking with the head of HR and employee relations, I found out that I would not be given any maternity leave, and I did not qualify for FMLA until I have been with the company at least a year.  The casino has strict hiring guidelines, and high costs.  Not only are uniform costs deducted from your initial paycheck, but so are fees for your gaming license (required if you work on the gaming floor).  Add the cost of gas and food, and you are in debt before you even start your first week. 

I was advised by the company to either work, resign, and re-apply after I'm ready to go back to work (forcing me to pay the above said fees again), or just wait.  So, after a LONG discussion with my husband, we decided that it would be best for me to just wait.

A few posts ago, I mentioned that this week has been empowering to me.  I have begun to take a hold of my life and be the grown-up that I never felt I was.  But why do I feel so bad?

I have never stayed at a job longer than a year; I have never finished a degree (except for a college transfer Associates); I rarely finish projects that I start...all of these things make me feel guilty.

Guilt...
Maybe that is what I am feeling.

Guilt of being the burden...guilt of being the failure again...of not accomplishing anything...disappointing my husband and my family.

Yes, I'm pregnant, but that isn't an excuse. 
Yes, I'm trying to start selling PartyLite, but it isn't bringing in a steady paycheck.

Maybe it's depression (can't take my meds while pregnant)...maybe it's something deeper...

All I know is that it is wearing me out and I am ready for something positive.  I have been proactive in changing my bad habits.  I have done my best to remain positive and act like I'm happy.  It's hard.  Anyone can relate to this.

PRETENDING TO BE HAPPY WHEN YOU AREN'T IS HARD!

It is actually exhausting.  Blame hormones if you want, but there has to be a reason why today has been so rough.  Physical pain aside (silly baby), I wish I could pinpoint the exact cause of my distress. 

I'm going to try and drown out my sorrows with something productive...maybe working towards a "finished project" will help.  All I can do is try, right?

Wishful Wednesday - Life Repurposed

Welcome to the first week of Wishful Wednesday!

This will be a weekly, themed post of various items that are on my personal wish list!  Each segment will contain a collection of items that are either available to purchase or DIY. 

This week has been monumental to me.  I have reached the point in my life that I realize I need to take control and start fresh.  I have begun many projects this week that have helped me feel refreshed and new!  

So, the theme for the first Wishful Wednesday is Life Repurposed!

ENJOY!

The first is a magnet make-up board that I actually am in the process of creating.  I think it is a wonderful space saver and allows versatility for your own decor!

DIY Instructions Here

The next features a repurposed coffee table that has been chalkboard painted into a game table!  The host website shows many ideas that can be done with such a simple paint.  I would personally make a top for it so the paint wouldn't be ruined if it needed to be used as a table.

Click here for more ideas!

 This is a DIY that I plan on doing for our baby boy out of the husband's old graphic T's!

Click here for more ideas!

This next item doesn't have instructions, but I would assume that the setup for a water fountain would be drilled and adhered to the bottom of the instrument.  My husband and I met during college in the Music Department, so this is perfect for us!

The last is a project that I hope to tackle soon.  I love the idea of using old bed sheets for the "yarn" and the DIY instructions are easy to follow!  Plus, it's machine washable!

DIY Instructions Here

I hope you enjoyed the first edition of Wishful Wednesday.  I hope to receive some feedback with future theme ideas and other segments you would love to read about!  This weekend will feature my progress of becoming paperless! 

Hope to see you then!

~Tippy

21 Weeks and Counting

In my 2013 review, I shared that my husband and I found out we were pregnant!  I'm now sitting at 21 weeks and had the pleasure of getting my anatomy scan done!  Jeremiah and I found out what we were having a couple weeks before Christmas through a "sneak peek."  It's a BOY!  I thought I would share some of the better pictures of the scan.

Please help me welcome the future Mr. Rhys Elen!!!

My little alien baby!

One of many pictures where he is holding his foot!

Profile!

  When I first found out that we were having a boy, I will admit that I went through a gender disappointment stage.  This is our first baby, and I was SURE that it was going to be a girl.  I had EVERYTHING picked out...nursery, decor, name, clothes, etc.  But, I have, thankfully, gotten out of that slump and am now team mustaches and bow-ties!

Hope you enjoyed you own "sneak peek" at the future little one!  Are there any first time mom's out there?  What was your experience?

~Tippy

Mischievous Monday

Today was the day.  I was determined to get up and be proactive.  I was going to tackle some moving boxes and organize some.  Then the temperature started to drop and the heated blanket on the bed was inviting, and I REALLY wanted to finish my book...soooooo I gave in.

BUT, alas!  There is a happy ending to this story!  This evening, I started scanning documents into JPEG files and organizing them into categories on my computer.  The box I tackled is FULL of paperwork that I have been dreading, but now that I have begun, it's hard to stop! 

After about 2 or so hours, this is how much I finished...

I know it doesn't look like much, but there are about 200 papers in there (some front and back).  They are not only scanned in, but also categorized and labeled accordingly.  I do have to say that I'm proud of myself for beginning a project that my husband came up with about, oh, a year ago!  

Unfortunately, the box that these were in is still mostly full.  Guess what I'll be doing tomorrow evening!

Have any of you ever thought about going paperless?  If so, any tips?  If not, what's holding you back?

~Tippy

Long Time Coming...

It has been over a year since I last posted, forcing me to figure out what to write about.  I then remembered what my sister-in-law told me: "Just write like you never left."  So, instead of dwelling on all of the old possibilities, I'll start 2014 off right with a recap of what's new.

I got married to my best friend and soul mate on May 8, 2012 and we celebrated our year anniversary!

I celebrated my 2nd year of remission from Hodgkin's Lymphoma Stage 2 cancer!

Theme was Favorite Disney Villan

My best friend as Malificent

Me as Ursula

We are almost 21 weeks pregnant with our first little one!

We moved back to my hometown to help eliminate some debt and save money before the baby arrives.

Thanksgiving and Christmas flew by as always, but with a bunch of family, food, and fellowship!

It has been a whirlwind, but I hope that some stability comes soon...this momma-to-be certainly needs it...

~Tippy