The fog has cleared.

The fog has cleared. No, I'm not talking about the weather. All though, I could be as the sun is showing it's pretty little face and the snow is glistening. I am actually referring to my head. I can finally breathe and do not feel like my head has been jammed into a balloon. Honestly, people around me have been sounding a lot like the adult voices on Charlie Brown. A stuffy, runny, soar nose is something I am not fond of. But, it is finally over. The fog has cleared.

Coming out of a head cold makes me feel invincible. Not that I am going to try to fly or run a marathon but, for the first time in a couple days I feel up to writing, reading, crocheting and doing a little freelance for friends. I literally did not pick up a pen, book or crochet needle for 2 days. Going to work and taking care of a busy little E were more than enough for me.

Speaking of her, I have to say a big THANK YOU to R for taking care of E and picking up where I couldn't. You are so wonderful. I say I appreciate what you do and I do but when you step in doing everything when I can not is when I look at my wedding ring, nod my head and say, Yup! I've got the greatest husband. I chose well. Thank you. I love you.

So, here's to picking up where I left off. I am thankful for being healthier today than I was yesterday. Stay tuned for my Friday Feature and a few additions to the blog design.

Keep Loving.

Snow Bunnies

R and M got to spend some daddy daughter time together yesterday. They braved the wind, cold and snow and took to the hills. R introduced M to snowboarding for the very first time. I had to share photos because he captured some great moments.

R reported back that M did really well for her first time. Of course she's a natural and she doesn't even realize it. This girl is good at any sport she tries. And that's no exaggeration. As long as she puts her mind to it she can do just about anything. 

Keep loving.

It's still dark out.

When I wake up it's still dark out. VERY dark out. Is this a sign that I'm getting old? Nope. Not in my opinion. It is a sign that I have a good job. (Or the fact that the Earth is further away from the sun.)  In my opinion a good job is many things but most importantly it should be a place you enjoy going to and something you enjoy doing. It's important to have a job you like. It was a long journey to get where I am now and by gosh I'm going to enjoy it.

I have definitely been enjoying it. Until Tuesday, when my head cold got the best of me. It is only my second full week of work. This is reason enough for me to stick it out and avoid calling in sick. So I went in Tuesday morning with good spirits, even though I felt (and looked like) Rudolf the Red Nose Reindeer. I knew I'd have lots of work to keep me busy. I thought I was managing well until I started getting cold, then hot, then cold again. I couldn't get warm. Not to mention the constant sneezing, blowing my nose and washing my hands afterward. I might have spent more time in the break room doing that than sitting at my desk.

So at 3:00pm I called it a day. My body needed rest. I could feel it. I knew I needed to get better but pushing myself wasn't going to help. Luckily, my boss was very understanding and I went home to rest. My co-workers were also very understanding and could see I needed rest. They sent me home with get well wishes too.

It means a lot to me that at my new place of employment I have understanding and caring people. It makes a world of difference when you just don't feel well. Not that I haven't had that at other places but right from the very start my new co-workers trust that I know what I need to do. It is rather stressful to be sick, at least for me. Something is wrong and I want to make it right and until it is I am rather discontent. But added stress only makes it worse. So the fact that my boss was understanding and co-workers were supportive was helpful and much appreciated.

I'm not quite 100% rid of this cold but I'm 100% sure I like the  people I call my co-workers.

Double sad face

I apologize for the lack of posts the passed few days. I came down with...well, something. Shakes, shivers, cold sweats, soar throat, ick, nasty, gross stuff. Since Tuesday, which I just now realize was 4 days ago, I've been resting and doing the bare minimum.

We've been struck with a heat wave here (and in several other areas). I had originally planned to enjoy the beach, pool, parks and walking as much as possible this Summer but this 90 to 100 degree weather is forcing us to stay inside where it's cool and comfortable. Atleast, I know I'm not missing out on too much being sick.

Thankfully, my mother in law was here to help me out with Edee for a couple hours. Thank you again, Diane. I know I would have some how managed to push through it but you really saved me when I was the worst. Also, I couldn't have gotten the rest and relaxing I needed without Ryan. Thank you for taking care of Edee in the middle of the week. I really appreciate your help. You make being sick just a little bit more bearable.

So, now it's antibiotics for strep throat. *double sad face* Yes, it's strep throat. Smoothies, milk shakes, hot broth and hot tea are on the menu for me. I just want it feel better. I know that giving, doing and trying my best when I am sick is not even close to when I'm at my all. And I don't think the laundry can climb any higher. So, I know it is time to get better. Besides that missing two work days is one too many.

On a more positive note:

Edee has FIVE teeth! Yes, five. My little girl has 5 teeth in her tiny little mouth. I can't believe it. I discovered #5 when she rewarded me with a big giggle after tickling her belly. Which, she will grab and squeeze when you ask, "Edee, where's your belly?" Guess what came after that? Her belly button. She had to look and poke to see exactly what it was. She is learning so quickly.

Her personality is definitely starting to show through as well. She cuddles her monkey, blankie and various other toys. I think most of the time it is because she is excited for them but sometimes I believe it is a form of affection. She recently started laying her head down on pillows, our shoulders, or even the floor. It might be just to take a rest but I think it's a form of affection as well. Whatever it is, it is so  darn adorable. I can't get enough of how sweet she looks when she just pauses for a moment and takes in the world around her.

We are looking forward to more Summer hours with Maddi. August is full of time at our house. I know she will definitely get us outside with camping, swimming, biking, etc. If this heat keeps us inside I have some craft projects planned for her too. Either way it shall be fun!

Other than that, all is well. I hope everyone is enjoying their hot, hot summer in whatever way is most refreshing!