Actually was fairly productive today as we "relaxed" post-operatively, Hubs allowed me a rest-in (completely awake time to myself in a somewhet zombified state following the unsettled-ness of the baby's sleep. He freaked out at eleven o'clock and we HAD TO FORCE PAIN MEDS INTO HIM; from then he slept and fed well and then had a wakeful period from 6-7am so I was basically awake.
We were awaiting the morning poo and the changing of both nappies, disentangling the catheter, keeping his hands from it, keeping it from dripping over the new nappies/changing area/Bundle himself, while actually cleaning him up and also keeping him out of the poo and away from his bandaged up genitals - why do mums have only two hands? He got there comfortably (yay) and we set to with some bickering and little "spillage" but intact.
Fast forward through a lovely visit to the in-laws' house (including seeing our wee 3yo niece) and then home for a story, milkies, (no toilet), putting his doll to bed and then going himself after prayers. Bundle stirred after forty-five minutes and then fed/slept attached until the two hour mark. A dry outer nappy in place, dolly awakened and after some playtime with Granda, his 9yo boy cuz and Nanny, I started on our dinner preparations. Midway my nostrils were assaulted, Bundle wasn't upset (yay) and poo number two (pun intended) of the day was facing me.
Nanny had gone to bed and Granda had taken my nephew home so Han Solo I prepared for battle. I worked quicker, distracted (where is your head?) and only had slight "spillage" and excessive wipe-usage as the bad points to the change.
Dinner was had and enjoyed to the accompanying family-friendly movie, "Yours, mine and ours" and was followed up by a productive clean-up/empty dishwasher/reload it/repack baby bag/put away laundry time. As often occurs we also had an evening ablution that I didn't hesitate to handle alone.
I was better prepared and after feeding the catheter tube ends back through the inner nappy I wrapped them in a cloth nappy fleece liner, held in place with sellotape, to prevent further "spillage." Distractions were less effective and a stern tone and hand removal were the only things that prevented Bundle from removing his catheter (twice), scary stuff. Poo clean-up complete I unwrapped, reinserted and nappied him up for the night.
So he has the catheter in until mid-morning Monday and it cannot come soon enough and yet I can only pray it's long enough to allow greater healing of his "high-powered hose." In the meantime, pyjamas are the order of the day.
31 days of Cleaning House has not exactly been mastered but it was at least discussed, baby steps people!
Thursday 31 October 2013
Wednesday 30 October 2013
Day 30 - Thankful for Clean
Today I was thankful for clean, or more precisely sterile as my Bundle underwent a hypospadias repair operation.
I was also thankful for the many prayers that accompanied him "under the knife;" the lovely surgeon, A Dick (I kid you not); being first then bumped only to second on the theatre list; being "farmed out" to a private hospital on the public health service, which despite the added miles of travel (getting up at half five this morning) was wonderful, friendly, aesthetically pleasing and noticeably cleaner; for warm-hearted encouraging staff nurses; for encouraging and prayerful texts and for the news that my grandfather (though struggling with low blood pressure) came through his op. last night as well.
Praise God from whom all blessings flow.
Going in I had struggled for days with emotions but I was strong for my son beginning last night and lasting until after I left him "sleeping" on the operating table, at which point the tears flowed, I didn't even realise I'd walked up a flight of ten steps to meet my husband.
Afterwards he was somewhat distraught for the first hour, settling only while (breast)feeding and then eating and drinking - poor wee mite he has done so well today.
My dark thoughts coming in to the op. had included every variation of the worst-case scenario and thus all happiness today was magnified, it is how I have always processed information. I went in fully giving him to God and I came out blessed that God allowed us to keep him, intact. My preparations included many photographs and a voice recording of his latest jabbering and they shall be treasured regardless but how lovely to have kept "the real thing," our bonny little boy.
Now sleeping in his double nappy with catheter in place and his parents' hearts intact.
I was also thankful for the many prayers that accompanied him "under the knife;" the lovely surgeon, A Dick (I kid you not); being first then bumped only to second on the theatre list; being "farmed out" to a private hospital on the public health service, which despite the added miles of travel (getting up at half five this morning) was wonderful, friendly, aesthetically pleasing and noticeably cleaner; for warm-hearted encouraging staff nurses; for encouraging and prayerful texts and for the news that my grandfather (though struggling with low blood pressure) came through his op. last night as well.
Praise God from whom all blessings flow.
Going in I had struggled for days with emotions but I was strong for my son beginning last night and lasting until after I left him "sleeping" on the operating table, at which point the tears flowed, I didn't even realise I'd walked up a flight of ten steps to meet my husband.
Afterwards he was somewhat distraught for the first hour, settling only while (breast)feeding and then eating and drinking - poor wee mite he has done so well today.
My dark thoughts coming in to the op. had included every variation of the worst-case scenario and thus all happiness today was magnified, it is how I have always processed information. I went in fully giving him to God and I came out blessed that God allowed us to keep him, intact. My preparations included many photographs and a voice recording of his latest jabbering and they shall be treasured regardless but how lovely to have kept "the real thing," our bonny little boy.
Now sleeping in his double nappy with catheter in place and his parents' hearts intact.
#5 Weekly Weigh-in
Keeping track thrice weekly but here's the official weekly weigh-in (actually from yesterday):
#5 13 st 0 lbs (182 pounds)
#4 13 st 0 lbs (182 pounds)
Amazingly an almost-week of overeating and indulging and lots of chocolate hasn't thrown my weight off (it went up then back down across the week). Emotional eating was/is the rule at the moment but hopefully I'll put myself back on track after Bundle's op is over him (it was this morning by the time for which this is scheduled).
Third Goal - to reach my lowest post-partum weight (12 st 8 lbs) and get back to where I was 2009/2010
Reward - add a sticker to my "star chart" for every pound lost, working toward another book buying reward and jump around the house like a mad thing.
#5 13 st 0 lbs (182 pounds)
#4 13 st 0 lbs (182 pounds)
Amazingly an almost-week of overeating and indulging and lots of chocolate hasn't thrown my weight off (it went up then back down across the week). Emotional eating was/is the rule at the moment but hopefully I'll put myself back on track after Bundle's op is over him (it was this morning by the time for which this is scheduled).
Third Goal - to reach my lowest post-partum weight (12 st 8 lbs) and get back to where I was 2009/2010
Reward - add a sticker to my "star chart" for every pound lost, working toward another book buying reward and jump around the house like a mad thing.
Tuesday 29 October 2013
Day 29 - Emotional
Very emotional today as I consider my baby (23 months) going under the knife in the morning. I've soent the day cleaning out my emotions (and brushing the nursry) so I am ready to be strong for my baby come the morning.
That's all I've got.
That's all I've got.
Bundle Tales #4
20-23 months
Making the car/vehicle noises as he plays.
Developing a keen interest in animals and vehicles of all sorts but especially in love with cows and tractors (good choices since we often are surrounded by one or t'other.
Saying so much more, or at least trying to and signing lots more too. Generally just communicating in all the pleasant and more frustrating ways also (real temper scream of fury).
For a time responding to the question of who I am with Dad but now beautifully sing-songing Mem, Memmy or Mummy.
Dad, Daddy, lots of words are da.
Mem, Memmy, Mummy.
Moo for cow. Baa for sheep/lamb.
Beep-beep (horn noise, noise your nose makes when pressed).
Ding-ding (bicycle bell).
Tractor or some approximation.
Ga, Ganny, Nenny. (Granda, Granny, Nanny).
Cheers and cheese having very little between them but context and not always that.
Saying his own name, which can also be eerily similar or gorgeously clear, ditto for Please.
Apple, Amen, Toast, Pat (for Postman Pat - who he adores from our many books).
Mo for more accompanied by his version of the sign.
Trying so hard and just exploding with new mimickry of words and much more "chat" at around 23m.
Betty (great-aunt and also family dog). Help. Book. Man. Bob. Car.
Running everywhere but especially to meet his Daddy at the door after work.
Still charming everyone he meets, even when he's being "shy" and playing peekaboo from behind my legs or over my shoulder. The shy act never lasts long despite the situation though.
Freezing on thresholds out of "shyness" and often needing to be carried inside but quickly recovering himself and "working the room."
Growing into 12-18 month size clothes at 22 1/2 months though by no means all of them, especially still between sizes on the trousers initially but then enjoying a second growth spurt (causing much face-first tripping as the muscles seek to catch-up with the bones).
Starting to be a much neater eater and gaining a lot of ground in self-spoon-feeding and using the more fast-flowing water cups. Occasionally managing to not destroy a whole outfit for lack of three bibs (yes layering them up was necessary, still is, in order to avoid three daily changes of clothing).
Eats a wide variety of foods from eggs (omelette, quiche, dry-fried), courgettes, carrots, mushrooms, apple, orange, plum, nectarine, raisins, grapes, occasionally bananas (though they are a big no-no or for about a week a big yes-yes), peas, green beans, sweetcorn, pizza, pepperoni, smoked salmon, beef, chicken, cheese, ham, bacon, pancakes, biscuits, bread and bagels, beans (all but especially tinned with tomato sauce), lasagna, hot apple barley cereal, sausages, chips or waffles, potatoes in other forms (finally), creamed rice, cake, to fish fingers...
Happily dons his coat at the mere mention of outside.
On our fourth pair of spectacles (second design) as our head grows (a very noticeable millimetre at a time).
Sitting through whole church services with minimal disruption or noise, plays with his quiet toys/reads/enjoys his morning snack with oerhaps one trip to the loo signalled by an antsy bottom.
Showing lots of interest in other children and physically wanting to touch, tap or hug; alas not always welcomed and he seems to always choose the children that will squall the loudest over his entering their personal space.
Learning to be gentle in stroking the dogs Lucy and Betty.
Still enjoying his milkies day and night and signs milkies with great glee.
Won't really feed in public/when out as he gets too distracted, even at LLL surrounded by nursing babies/toddlers.
Still being toileted at regular intervals and very occasionally will sign to go. Most number twos are in the potty, thank goodness.
Settling into his sleep even better (welcomes the routine or it but still not keen on the cot or being left lone to sleep except in the cocoon of the buggy).
Still enjoys from 1 1/2-2 1/2 hours sleep in the afternoon and only nods off in the car on the way home from La Leche League and can now be difficult to keep asleep during the transfer inside from the car.
Goes to sleep to the sound of Mama singing or playing the piano or both but also to silence and stillness (no pushing/rocking/bouncing) and enjoys just snuggling in.
Enjoys sleeping back-to-back with Daddy.
Loves to do that wonderful toddler trick of kicking the covers off of himself in the that one graceful double leg movement.
Has been found at the bottom on the bed (usually on top but once underneath the covers) in the middle of the night.
Still loves to dance and play the bodrhan along to Galway Girl and most music.
Had his first haircut at about 21 1/2 months and went from lots of "isn't she lovely" comments to no one mistaking his gender in one fell swoop - his proper little boy haircut is so lovely that I can't believe I waited so long and yet I totally can as his little curls are all but gone, with only a kink or two remaining.
Wearing his first little suit (matching formal trousers, waistcoat, shirt and velcro tie) to church and just looking so stunning that Daddy has dressed *up* to match instead of a more casual look.
Happy chappy, smiler, my friend described him as "manically happy."
Brave (usually) about physical challenges, climbing up/down e.g. step ladder, high/low bed, chairs, stairs though can freak out over surprisingly low things, ah the queerness of folk.
Enjoys the mountainous challenge that is climbing the external steps to our home.
Very obedient, usually and we've had many "wow" comments about how he responds - a real answer to prayer because for the longest time he just ignored all instruction.
Loves to put the dirty (disposable) nappies in the bin and the wet (cloth) nappies in the nappy bin/bucket; also laundry into the hamper/washer/dryer.
Loves to tidy up his toys so much he's been known to do it unbidden; at the LLL group as I was trying to get him to leave and enjoys the satisfaction of toys in their "homes."
When asked to park his "scooter," or "truck" he does so.
He signs for prayer, bed, milkies, more, book,
We're working on (or should be) drink, help, sorry, thank you, food and "I love you."
Can take off his (non-popper) vest, wide-legged shorts, pyjama bottoms and unzipped body-warmer solo and tops with a little assistance.
Will hold your hand for a walk and stay fairly contented in the trolley on shopping trip.
Making the car/vehicle noises as he plays.
Developing a keen interest in animals and vehicles of all sorts but especially in love with cows and tractors (good choices since we often are surrounded by one or t'other.
Saying so much more, or at least trying to and signing lots more too. Generally just communicating in all the pleasant and more frustrating ways also (real temper scream of fury).
For a time responding to the question of who I am with Dad but now beautifully sing-songing Mem, Memmy or Mummy.
Dad, Daddy, lots of words are da.
Mem, Memmy, Mummy.
Moo for cow. Baa for sheep/lamb.
Beep-beep (horn noise, noise your nose makes when pressed).
Ding-ding (bicycle bell).
Tractor or some approximation.
Ga, Ganny, Nenny. (Granda, Granny, Nanny).
Cheers and cheese having very little between them but context and not always that.
Saying his own name, which can also be eerily similar or gorgeously clear, ditto for Please.
Apple, Amen, Toast, Pat (for Postman Pat - who he adores from our many books).
Mo for more accompanied by his version of the sign.
Trying so hard and just exploding with new mimickry of words and much more "chat" at around 23m.
Betty (great-aunt and also family dog). Help. Book. Man. Bob. Car.
Running everywhere but especially to meet his Daddy at the door after work.
Still charming everyone he meets, even when he's being "shy" and playing peekaboo from behind my legs or over my shoulder. The shy act never lasts long despite the situation though.
Freezing on thresholds out of "shyness" and often needing to be carried inside but quickly recovering himself and "working the room."
Growing into 12-18 month size clothes at 22 1/2 months though by no means all of them, especially still between sizes on the trousers initially but then enjoying a second growth spurt (causing much face-first tripping as the muscles seek to catch-up with the bones).
Starting to be a much neater eater and gaining a lot of ground in self-spoon-feeding and using the more fast-flowing water cups. Occasionally managing to not destroy a whole outfit for lack of three bibs (yes layering them up was necessary, still is, in order to avoid three daily changes of clothing).
Eats a wide variety of foods from eggs (omelette, quiche, dry-fried), courgettes, carrots, mushrooms, apple, orange, plum, nectarine, raisins, grapes, occasionally bananas (though they are a big no-no or for about a week a big yes-yes), peas, green beans, sweetcorn, pizza, pepperoni, smoked salmon, beef, chicken, cheese, ham, bacon, pancakes, biscuits, bread and bagels, beans (all but especially tinned with tomato sauce), lasagna, hot apple barley cereal, sausages, chips or waffles, potatoes in other forms (finally), creamed rice, cake, to fish fingers...
Happily dons his coat at the mere mention of outside.
On our fourth pair of spectacles (second design) as our head grows (a very noticeable millimetre at a time).
Sitting through whole church services with minimal disruption or noise, plays with his quiet toys/reads/enjoys his morning snack with oerhaps one trip to the loo signalled by an antsy bottom.
Showing lots of interest in other children and physically wanting to touch, tap or hug; alas not always welcomed and he seems to always choose the children that will squall the loudest over his entering their personal space.
Learning to be gentle in stroking the dogs Lucy and Betty.
Still enjoying his milkies day and night and signs milkies with great glee.
Won't really feed in public/when out as he gets too distracted, even at LLL surrounded by nursing babies/toddlers.
Still being toileted at regular intervals and very occasionally will sign to go. Most number twos are in the potty, thank goodness.
Settling into his sleep even better (welcomes the routine or it but still not keen on the cot or being left lone to sleep except in the cocoon of the buggy).
Still enjoys from 1 1/2-2 1/2 hours sleep in the afternoon and only nods off in the car on the way home from La Leche League and can now be difficult to keep asleep during the transfer inside from the car.
Goes to sleep to the sound of Mama singing or playing the piano or both but also to silence and stillness (no pushing/rocking/bouncing) and enjoys just snuggling in.
Enjoys sleeping back-to-back with Daddy.
Loves to do that wonderful toddler trick of kicking the covers off of himself in the that one graceful double leg movement.
Has been found at the bottom on the bed (usually on top but once underneath the covers) in the middle of the night.
Still loves to dance and play the bodrhan along to Galway Girl and most music.
Had his first haircut at about 21 1/2 months and went from lots of "isn't she lovely" comments to no one mistaking his gender in one fell swoop - his proper little boy haircut is so lovely that I can't believe I waited so long and yet I totally can as his little curls are all but gone, with only a kink or two remaining.
Wearing his first little suit (matching formal trousers, waistcoat, shirt and velcro tie) to church and just looking so stunning that Daddy has dressed *up* to match instead of a more casual look.
Happy chappy, smiler, my friend described him as "manically happy."
Brave (usually) about physical challenges, climbing up/down e.g. step ladder, high/low bed, chairs, stairs though can freak out over surprisingly low things, ah the queerness of folk.
Enjoys the mountainous challenge that is climbing the external steps to our home.
Very obedient, usually and we've had many "wow" comments about how he responds - a real answer to prayer because for the longest time he just ignored all instruction.
Loves to put the dirty (disposable) nappies in the bin and the wet (cloth) nappies in the nappy bin/bucket; also laundry into the hamper/washer/dryer.
Loves to tidy up his toys so much he's been known to do it unbidden; at the LLL group as I was trying to get him to leave and enjoys the satisfaction of toys in their "homes."
When asked to park his "scooter," or "truck" he does so.
He signs for prayer, bed, milkies, more, book,
We're working on (or should be) drink, help, sorry, thank you, food and "I love you."
Can take off his (non-popper) vest, wide-legged shorts, pyjama bottoms and unzipped body-warmer solo and tops with a little assistance.
Will hold your hand for a walk and stay fairly contented in the trolley on shopping trip.
Monday 28 October 2013
Day 28 - Cleaning in Mama's and the sidebar
Today I washed some dishes (an almost unheard of event) at my Mama's, dug the meat out of some leftover chicken and used the carcass to make some stock but mostly...
I cleaned up my sidebar on my sister (challenge) blog.
Virtual clutter and disorganisation is almost as hindering as the real life stuff and nonsense. Glad that's sorted perhaps I could suck it up and actually do some real honest-to-goodness CLEANING!
I cleaned up my sidebar on my sister (challenge) blog.
Virtual clutter and disorganisation is almost as hindering as the real life stuff and nonsense. Glad that's sorted perhaps I could suck it up and actually do some real honest-to-goodness CLEANING!
Sunday 27 October 2013
Day 27 - Cleaning up the visual
An old display unit, for what - who knows, recently unearthed at the back of an outhouse and given a thorough going over. Placed horizontal rather than the vertical stance its brackets suggested and filled with an assortment of small "treasures," mostly of my husband's bachelorhood. Trinkets of worth to him but not necessarily of tremendous beauty. Gathered together, the trinkets, including a couple of my own, and the small shells and stones to add a touch of nature, a display worthy of witness - a gathering of us both and our lives and loves. Simple and yet not quite as it shoukd be - the unit darkly painted failing to show off the "treasures" and so to scrapbooking or rather scrapbook paper and the large collection I have gathered up over the years. A few small rectangles of lighter paper (chosen with input from the Hubby) and the "treasures" are offset and ready for a proper exhibition.
Beautifying our space, making it ours, cleaning up the visual of the old and making it new.
Christ risen cleans up the visual of our hearts and makes them new and clean, showing off His love if only we allow it.
Beautifying our space, making it ours, cleaning up the visual of the old and making it new.
Christ risen cleans up the visual of our hearts and makes them new and clean, showing off His love if only we allow it.
Saturday 26 October 2013
Day 26 - Toddling along...
Today was not a day of much cleaning or clearing or tidying or organising, it was a day of baby steps, toddling along...
Today I cleared the detritus of papers from the top of my bedside cabinet; it wasn't much of a pile, a couple of notebooks, a few letters waiting to be filed away but there it had sat for so long. The clearing took little time and yet the effect was remarkable. I wouldn't have said the space was messy or cluttered and yet clearing proved that it had been. The "cleared" surface or as cleared as it would ever be was more restful, more peaceful, a calmer visual; calm is especially of importance for the insomniac and so I will endeavour to keep it clear. The touch-lamp, water bottle and box of tissues, ever-ready and waiting for the constant use all three items get, they alone shall remain.
Today I washed two full loads (and one yesterday) and hung to dry the light and easily dried items downstairs and the non-dryer thicker items across the radiators upstairs and dryer items were gathered from both loads before that helper was called into play. My maidservants worked hard for me today and I thank God for them.
Today I quick-cleaned both bathrooms.
Today I visited with my parents at the outreach cafe of our church and enjoyed a freshly baked date and wheaten scone with jam and cream and shared a slice of scrumptious apple pie with Bundle. I enjoyed his hand-loading of his teaspoon with his mini-crackers and grape halves and his sheer delight at the piece of iced cake I allowed him.
I enjoyed an afternoon visit to my parents' home and a catch-up chatter with my mother as Bundle played in the wide variety of cast-off toys. They go to Australia for three months and we'll all feel their loss.
Following my Cleaning Schedule is the goal but as insomnia knocks me or emotions rage through me and depresssion takes the legs from under me I am thankful for a loving husband and son and wonderful family to cheer me on, make me a cuppa and just live alongside me. The house has seem improvements and I have a long way to go but I am glad that God's grace sustains me and not the ability to eat off my floor, although I do anyway :) five second rule people!
Today I cleared the detritus of papers from the top of my bedside cabinet; it wasn't much of a pile, a couple of notebooks, a few letters waiting to be filed away but there it had sat for so long. The clearing took little time and yet the effect was remarkable. I wouldn't have said the space was messy or cluttered and yet clearing proved that it had been. The "cleared" surface or as cleared as it would ever be was more restful, more peaceful, a calmer visual; calm is especially of importance for the insomniac and so I will endeavour to keep it clear. The touch-lamp, water bottle and box of tissues, ever-ready and waiting for the constant use all three items get, they alone shall remain.
Today I washed two full loads (and one yesterday) and hung to dry the light and easily dried items downstairs and the non-dryer thicker items across the radiators upstairs and dryer items were gathered from both loads before that helper was called into play. My maidservants worked hard for me today and I thank God for them.
Today I quick-cleaned both bathrooms.
Today I visited with my parents at the outreach cafe of our church and enjoyed a freshly baked date and wheaten scone with jam and cream and shared a slice of scrumptious apple pie with Bundle. I enjoyed his hand-loading of his teaspoon with his mini-crackers and grape halves and his sheer delight at the piece of iced cake I allowed him.
I enjoyed an afternoon visit to my parents' home and a catch-up chatter with my mother as Bundle played in the wide variety of cast-off toys. They go to Australia for three months and we'll all feel their loss.
Following my Cleaning Schedule is the goal but as insomnia knocks me or emotions rage through me and depresssion takes the legs from under me I am thankful for a loving husband and son and wonderful family to cheer me on, make me a cuppa and just live alongside me. The house has seem improvements and I have a long way to go but I am glad that God's grace sustains me and not the ability to eat off my floor, although I do anyway :) five second rule people!
Friday 25 October 2013
Day 25 - Cleaning out my wallet
Well more accurately cleaning up my finances and FINALLY cancelling a website subscription I wasn't even using. It was going unused because it wasn't useful to me and yet I procrastinated as per usual and didn't cancel it straight away, even though the website wasn't going to suddenly become useful. Who knows how my brain works, I certainly don't.
So today I cleaned up my finances and I'm glad. Now if only some of this philosophising could manifest in the kind of household cleaning I had originally intended for this month of blogging... then all will be just dandy.
So today I cleaned up my finances and I'm glad. Now if only some of this philosophising could manifest in the kind of household cleaning I had originally intended for this month of blogging... then all will be just dandy.
Thursday 24 October 2013
Day 24 - Raw hide
Raw hide! The wagon rolls on without me aboard.
It seems even when one *chooses* to alight from the wagon as opposed to falling off of it, it is still decidedly difficult to re-board. The intellectual decision made to hitch up and head back out onto the plains notwithstanding, the caravan continues its journey without me.
My Hubby is home, my emotional equilibrium almost restored, as restored as it is these days anyhow and yet I am cast adrift, zombie-like, not quite doing and not quite striving and certainly not thriving.
Another day of failed tasks, undone challenges and I am unmoved.
Prayer and prayer and perhaps this little engine will once more...
It seems even when one *chooses* to alight from the wagon as opposed to falling off of it, it is still decidedly difficult to re-board. The intellectual decision made to hitch up and head back out onto the plains notwithstanding, the caravan continues its journey without me.
My Hubby is home, my emotional equilibrium almost restored, as restored as it is these days anyhow and yet I am cast adrift, zombie-like, not quite doing and not quite striving and certainly not thriving.
Another day of failed tasks, undone challenges and I am unmoved.
Prayer and prayer and perhaps this little engine will once more...
Wednesday 23 October 2013
Day 23 - Coming Clean
I haven't done a thing hardly the last couple of days, I let things slide, I checked out as my Hubby checked in to a flight, to another country (sort of), and a hotel. I chose this, to overeat, to checkout, to lay awake, to let my emotions rule me, to wander around zombie-like but...
I did chose to air the house, to open the blinds/curtains, to tidy up, to empty the dishwasher and reload it. I chose to shower as soon as I got Bundle down for a nap, to clean me, ready for Hubby's homecoming. I chose many other things to dismiss over the last few days and a few others to keep-up and I have no real regrets in truth. I made these decisions in full awareness of my state of loss (boy I missed him) and I made them so I would not be overwhelmed by my emotional state but rather lean into it and focus on the important over the less so.
I focused on prayer and study. I focused on personal contact. I didn't cancel my catch-up with a friend. I didn't cancel my tutoring sessions. I withstood in a lot of ways, crumbled in others.
He is home and my equilibrium is reset. My house is our home and no it is not cleaner but it is happier.
I did chose to air the house, to open the blinds/curtains, to tidy up, to empty the dishwasher and reload it. I chose to shower as soon as I got Bundle down for a nap, to clean me, ready for Hubby's homecoming. I chose many other things to dismiss over the last few days and a few others to keep-up and I have no real regrets in truth. I made these decisions in full awareness of my state of loss (boy I missed him) and I made them so I would not be overwhelmed by my emotional state but rather lean into it and focus on the important over the less so.
I focused on prayer and study. I focused on personal contact. I didn't cancel my catch-up with a friend. I didn't cancel my tutoring sessions. I withstood in a lot of ways, crumbled in others.
He is home and my equilibrium is reset. My house is our home and no it is not cleaner but it is happier.
#4 Weekly Weigh-In
Keeping track thrice weekly but here's the official weekly weigh-in:
#4 13 st 0 lbs (182 pounds)
#3 12 st 11 lbs (179 pounds)
This is what happens when you eat junk food solidly from Monday night until Wednesday evening when your Hubby gies out of the country in business. I chose this path; I knew I'd gain. Back on the wagon again tomorrow and back on the path to my next goal.
Third Goal - to reach my lowest post-partum weight (12 st 8 lbs) and get back to where I was 2009/2010
Reward - add a sticker to my "star chart" for every pound lost, working toward another book buying reward and jump around the house like a mad thing.
#4 13 st 0 lbs (182 pounds)
#3 12 st 11 lbs (179 pounds)
This is what happens when you eat junk food solidly from Monday night until Wednesday evening when your Hubby gies out of the country in business. I chose this path; I knew I'd gain. Back on the wagon again tomorrow and back on the path to my next goal.
Third Goal - to reach my lowest post-partum weight (12 st 8 lbs) and get back to where I was 2009/2010
Reward - add a sticker to my "star chart" for every pound lost, working toward another book buying reward and jump around the house like a mad thing.
Tuesday 22 October 2013
Day 22 - Checking out
Check out my progress.
Check out how much I cleaned today or yesterday or last week.
Check out from cleaning because Hubby's away.
Check out how much I have to do.
Check out how much I did, check out how much I still have to do.
Check out out how it doesn't stay done, stay clean, stay tidy.
Check out how it is all day everyday, or a little everyday...everyday.
Check out how it has to be done again and again and again and again and again...
The curse of the fallen, that dust will always fall, we come from the dust, we return to the dust and in between we, you know, dust!
I can't wait for heaven, streets paved with gold, pearly gates, radiance, the brightest of lights to dispel all the darkness and show up the lack of dust.
Praising for eternity and no dusting, singing for the King and no sweeping.
There is a castle on a cloud, I like to go there in my sleep, aren't any floors for me to sweep...Les Mis
There is a Kingdom in the clouds, some day I'll go there no more to sleep, aren't any floors for me to sweep...Heaven
Check out how much I cleaned today or yesterday or last week.
Check out from cleaning because Hubby's away.
Check out how much I have to do.
Check out how much I did, check out how much I still have to do.
Check out out how it doesn't stay done, stay clean, stay tidy.
Check out how it is all day everyday, or a little everyday...everyday.
Check out how it has to be done again and again and again and again and again...
The curse of the fallen, that dust will always fall, we come from the dust, we return to the dust and in between we, you know, dust!
I can't wait for heaven, streets paved with gold, pearly gates, radiance, the brightest of lights to dispel all the darkness and show up the lack of dust.
Praising for eternity and no dusting, singing for the King and no sweeping.
There is a castle on a cloud, I like to go there in my sleep, aren't any floors for me to sweep...Les Mis
There is a Kingdom in the clouds, some day I'll go there no more to sleep, aren't any floors for me to sweep...Heaven
Monday 21 October 2013
Day 21 - Miss Saboteur
It happens with every goal I aim for, every plan of attack, every attempt to change my ways; at some point I sabotage myself.
It might be a slow sneaking back to old ways, after all, old habits die hard. It might be allowing myself to fall off the wagon once and then twice and then finding it hard to climb back aboard; or just not bothering. It may just be outright quitting or a spectacular "fall from grace" or a plan to fail.
It is the sinful nature exerting itself, the call of the familiar or the "easier" path. It is choosing the "what I want right now" over the "what I want." It is seeking comfort in the old, the familiar, the food I gorge on, the TV/book/blog that allows me to zone out; instead of doing the next thing, instead of seeking and finding comfort from the One from whom comfort and peace flow.
So many times I've given up, walked away or not even tried.
I am in a period of struggling once more and I have been/am sabotaging myself.
I've been sitting up too late which has more than likely added to my insomnia. I've been slow to get started in the morning. I've been prioritising my time very poorly. I've been letting my emotions and tiredness get the best of me.
We have been busy which has put extra emphasis on the need to prioritise in order to get the basics done and at the same time I've been continually adding more and more challenges (on my sister blog) without thinking about when or where I can fit in these additional activities. I need to take a couple of days while my Hubby is away to really think through all that I have to do and to lay out how I can best fit things in and which tasks should take priority on a busy day.
I think my Cleaning Schedule needs to be prioritised and up until now I've really not been taking it seriously. My (small) efforts have paid off, but really a little more foresight, planning and effort would improve my success at these tasks immensely.
So with a heavy heart over the copious amounts of rubbish I've just consumed and the little work I have today achieved, I shall to bed. Goodnight.
It might be a slow sneaking back to old ways, after all, old habits die hard. It might be allowing myself to fall off the wagon once and then twice and then finding it hard to climb back aboard; or just not bothering. It may just be outright quitting or a spectacular "fall from grace" or a plan to fail.
It is the sinful nature exerting itself, the call of the familiar or the "easier" path. It is choosing the "what I want right now" over the "what I want." It is seeking comfort in the old, the familiar, the food I gorge on, the TV/book/blog that allows me to zone out; instead of doing the next thing, instead of seeking and finding comfort from the One from whom comfort and peace flow.
So many times I've given up, walked away or not even tried.
I am in a period of struggling once more and I have been/am sabotaging myself.
I've been sitting up too late which has more than likely added to my insomnia. I've been slow to get started in the morning. I've been prioritising my time very poorly. I've been letting my emotions and tiredness get the best of me.
We have been busy which has put extra emphasis on the need to prioritise in order to get the basics done and at the same time I've been continually adding more and more challenges (on my sister blog) without thinking about when or where I can fit in these additional activities. I need to take a couple of days while my Hubby is away to really think through all that I have to do and to lay out how I can best fit things in and which tasks should take priority on a busy day.
I think my Cleaning Schedule needs to be prioritised and up until now I've really not been taking it seriously. My (small) efforts have paid off, but really a little more foresight, planning and effort would improve my success at these tasks immensely.
So with a heavy heart over the copious amounts of rubbish I've just consumed and the little work I have today achieved, I shall to bed. Goodnight.
Sunday 20 October 2013
Day 20 - An Inside Job
Roman Catholics visit the confessional and "atone" for their sins.
I believe Salvation Army members kneel at the mercy seat to confess.
Traditionally Presbyterians are to examine their hearts before the six annual communions.
There is even the encouraged prayer format of A.C.T.S. Adoration Confession Thanksgiving Supplication.
Prayerful confession is again wiping clean the slate of our soul.
Turning over the new leaf of repentance.
With the introduction of so many challenges on my sister blog I feel as if I am chasing my tail and never fully accomplishing anything; yet I have accomplished so much and one area that has greatly improved is my prayer life.
Daily "prayer sticks" time with Bundle has left me more open to God, seen me confessing my aberrations almost daily and seeking the forgiveness of the cross, with thankfulness for His mercies being new each morning.
Six lollipop sticks to guide me and direct me to His throne of grace;
Purple - a prayer format or prayerful passage,
Yellow - something for which to give thanks,
Red - family member, friends or church family to pray for,
Green - prayer for government, missionaries the world over, our ministers, the persecuted church
Orange - a supplication, please help me to be kind, patient, Christlike, (I really should add-in all the 'fruits of the spirit')
Blue - confessions, cleaning my soul, cleansing my heart, being contrite and apologising for the wrong that breaks His heart, mindful of the debt paid and freedom granted, PRAISE THE LORD!
Other short-term requests are added in to the mix and the prayers can have moments of checking off the list but those are few and far between, as the dialogue begins and my heart opens up to God. Tears flow and my soul sings. Our Father... Thank You Lord... Please lift up... Guide me O though Great Jehovah... Help so-and-so see their need of You... I'm sorry...
All the parts come together to make more than the whole. Thanks and praise and pleas and confession.
Confession especially, "they" always say it's good for the soul and they're right.
I believe Salvation Army members kneel at the mercy seat to confess.
Traditionally Presbyterians are to examine their hearts before the six annual communions.
There is even the encouraged prayer format of A.C.T.S. Adoration Confession Thanksgiving Supplication.
Prayerful confession is again wiping clean the slate of our soul.
Turning over the new leaf of repentance.
With the introduction of so many challenges on my sister blog I feel as if I am chasing my tail and never fully accomplishing anything; yet I have accomplished so much and one area that has greatly improved is my prayer life.
Daily "prayer sticks" time with Bundle has left me more open to God, seen me confessing my aberrations almost daily and seeking the forgiveness of the cross, with thankfulness for His mercies being new each morning.
Six lollipop sticks to guide me and direct me to His throne of grace;
Purple - a prayer format or prayerful passage,
Yellow - something for which to give thanks,
Red - family member, friends or church family to pray for,
Green - prayer for government, missionaries the world over, our ministers, the persecuted church
Orange - a supplication, please help me to be kind, patient, Christlike, (I really should add-in all the 'fruits of the spirit')
Blue - confessions, cleaning my soul, cleansing my heart, being contrite and apologising for the wrong that breaks His heart, mindful of the debt paid and freedom granted, PRAISE THE LORD!
Other short-term requests are added in to the mix and the prayers can have moments of checking off the list but those are few and far between, as the dialogue begins and my heart opens up to God. Tears flow and my soul sings. Our Father... Thank You Lord... Please lift up... Guide me O though Great Jehovah... Help so-and-so see their need of You... I'm sorry...
All the parts come together to make more than the whole. Thanks and praise and pleas and confession.
Confession especially, "they" always say it's good for the soul and they're right.
Saturday 19 October 2013
Day 19 - Building good habits
So I'm definitely not following my schedule too well, but even on days like today, when every hour was easily accounted for and none of my scheduled cleaning was done, things were still cleaned?!
In building up better daily habits for myself, I clean both bathrooms daily and (usually, hey I'm a work-in-progress) give the kitchen counters and sink a bit of a once-over. I also bleach the toilets three times a week (Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays).
So today, being Saturday, I may have been busy, I may not have "cleaned" or felt I had time to, but the toilets were bleached, the bathrooms were given a quick run-over and the kitchen counters were wiped down.
Building daily habits is helping my house, heart and head and that allows everyone to benefit from them ;)
In building up better daily habits for myself, I clean both bathrooms daily and (usually, hey I'm a work-in-progress) give the kitchen counters and sink a bit of a once-over. I also bleach the toilets three times a week (Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays).
So today, being Saturday, I may have been busy, I may not have "cleaned" or felt I had time to, but the toilets were bleached, the bathrooms were given a quick run-over and the kitchen counters were wiped down.
Building daily habits is helping my house, heart and head and that allows everyone to benefit from them ;)
Friday 18 October 2013
Day 18 - Be prepared
Today I followed a new recipe (an actual recipe!) and made hash brown crusted (vegetarian) quiche; you kmow it was good when my Hubby didn't even mention that it would have tasted better with a little meat in it!
All-in-all a successful cooking experiment but I certainly got to think about preparedness, you see alongside this (slightly) increased amount of cleaning, there has been a dramatic lessening of messing up the house and a big increase in tidying and setting things to rights about the place. The house is definitely looking the better for it.
Recently the Hubs decided to invite his family for Christmas and I begrudgingly agreed to go along with that decision. The decision itself made sense, my in-laws weren't terribly keen to host, my SIL is pregnant and pretty sick (and hosted last year, though not for us). Logically it made sense but emotionally...
I dream of being a regular, relaxed, house at the ready for company hostess - however I am none of those things. Hosting makes me terribly stressed, we don't do it very often, the house had (until recently) not been company ready ever and well I disliked that state of affairs (being that hospitality is biblically mandated and especially for church elders-my husband being one) but wasn't trying terribly hard to right the situation.
Now however that I'm discovering the benefits of (somewhat slapdash but much more) regular cleaning and better tidying habits I actually text Hubs today to say how "I'm kinda looking forward to Christmas now that I'm starting to make headway on the house." His reply made me cry:
"That's just great. You brought a big smile to my face... You are doing fab. Christmas will be great."
Of course I haven't yet offered to actually help him with the cooking, but baby steps people! ;)
Anyhow just to round this off nicely, yes it's good to be prepared, to have a plan, to be company ready in case the "company" materialise but sometimes being prepared ahead of time has its downsides...
This morning saw me prepare all the vegetables for my new quiche recipes, I was set to go, with courgette and celery chopped, chopped onion defrosted, cheese grated and potatoes peeled and grated. I set to creating my masterpiece after my hour of tutoring had been accomplished and... I found lots of grey grated potato. So tonight I served my Hubs and Sunny hash GREY based vegetarian quiche - yum yum!
It was still delicious though!
All-in-all a successful cooking experiment but I certainly got to think about preparedness, you see alongside this (slightly) increased amount of cleaning, there has been a dramatic lessening of messing up the house and a big increase in tidying and setting things to rights about the place. The house is definitely looking the better for it.
Recently the Hubs decided to invite his family for Christmas and I begrudgingly agreed to go along with that decision. The decision itself made sense, my in-laws weren't terribly keen to host, my SIL is pregnant and pretty sick (and hosted last year, though not for us). Logically it made sense but emotionally...
I dream of being a regular, relaxed, house at the ready for company hostess - however I am none of those things. Hosting makes me terribly stressed, we don't do it very often, the house had (until recently) not been company ready ever and well I disliked that state of affairs (being that hospitality is biblically mandated and especially for church elders-my husband being one) but wasn't trying terribly hard to right the situation.
Now however that I'm discovering the benefits of (somewhat slapdash but much more) regular cleaning and better tidying habits I actually text Hubs today to say how "I'm kinda looking forward to Christmas now that I'm starting to make headway on the house." His reply made me cry:
"That's just great. You brought a big smile to my face... You are doing fab. Christmas will be great."
Of course I haven't yet offered to actually help him with the cooking, but baby steps people! ;)
Anyhow just to round this off nicely, yes it's good to be prepared, to have a plan, to be company ready in case the "company" materialise but sometimes being prepared ahead of time has its downsides...
This morning saw me prepare all the vegetables for my new quiche recipes, I was set to go, with courgette and celery chopped, chopped onion defrosted, cheese grated and potatoes peeled and grated. I set to creating my masterpiece after my hour of tutoring had been accomplished and... I found lots of grey grated potato. So tonight I served my Hubs and Sunny hash GREY based vegetarian quiche - yum yum!
It was still delicious though!
Thursday 17 October 2013
Day 17 - A little cleaning goes a long way
Today (being the third Thursday of the month) saw us at our monthly La Leche League meeting, a definite pick-me-up for this Mama, it also being a LLL meant no official cleaning schedule beyond my everyday ones of a quick swipe over the bathrooms and kitchen. In a (very) small effort I was putting away some stragglers (items set down to be put away but still sat there, wherever there may be, months later) and having done that tiny (put off for far too long) job I set to and dusted that cupboard top and tidied up the decorations to beautify the space.
A little cleaning goes a long way because now that space makes me smile, instead of think, "Oh! I really should tidy that and dust it."
A little cleaning goes a long way because now that space makes me smile, instead of think, "Oh! I really should tidy that and dust it."
Wednesday 16 October 2013
Day 16 - The quick brown fox
The quick brown fox jumps over the lazy dog.
Getting quicker at the bathroom cleaning and I made myself get stuck in and clean both bathrooms today and brush out the en-suite. Hubby pitched in and brushed several floors today, love that man.
Getting into the habit of cleaning definitely makes me quicker at it. Funnily enough it also goes much quicker when you don't have to tidy first or scrub away weeks/months/years of grime to find the clean.
A little everyday, yet another golden rule that rings true.
Getting quicker at the bathroom cleaning and I made myself get stuck in and clean both bathrooms today and brush out the en-suite. Hubby pitched in and brushed several floors today, love that man.
Getting into the habit of cleaning definitely makes me quicker at it. Funnily enough it also goes much quicker when you don't have to tidy first or scrub away weeks/months/years of grime to find the clean.
A little everyday, yet another golden rule that rings true.
#3 Weekly Weigh-In
Keeping track thrice weekly but here's the official weekly weigh-in:
#3 12 st 11 lbs (179 pounds)
#2 12 st 13 lbs (181 pounds)
Second Goal - to lose something
Reward - to ironically get to eat another ten peach loop sweets
Yummy, yummy, yummy, in my tummy! So pleased too, wasn't expecting two pounds off!
This week (in the early hours of Tuesday morning to be precise) I began reading the "42 days to fit" and "100lb loser" e-books in preparation for taking the 42 days challenge (my next-but-one new challenge I think).
The 42 days challenge aims to help you lose 15-20 pounds which would be an amazing weight-loss to add to my eleven pounds so far (this from my original of 13 st 8 lbs not from the start of this weekly weigh-in blogging, a loss of only three pounds). A 15-20 pound loss would be especially helpful as I have another 47 pounds to lose to reach what would be considered a healthy weight for my height, namely 9 st 6 lbs.
Generally speaking "they" say you should aim for two pounds a week, but even a quarter of that (a pound/fortnight) would see me reach my weight-loss goal in less than two years which is a fabulus feat considering it took me well over a decade to get here. A one pound a week loss would see me hit my goal in less than a year and I think (pregnancy-permitting) it is not unreasonable of me to consider losing at least a pound a week for the next six months or so, so I am setting myself a longer-term goal of 32 pounds by my next birthday (my 32nd, which is actually about 31 weeks away). So here goes:
Third Goal
To reach (at least)my lowest post-partum weight (12 st 8 lbs) and get back to where I was in 2009/2010
Reward
Add a sticker to my "star chart" for every pound lost so far (since week one) i.e. at least six, this star chart is working toward another book buying reward. Oh and jump around the house like a mad thing.
First L-T Goal
To weigh no more than 10 st 7 lbs by 21st May, 2014 (the Wednesday closest to my 32nd birthday)
Reward
Kindle? New iPad? Ki-fit sub? New book? Chocolate??? A much smaller bottom? The ability to fit into my smaller clothes? To Be Confirmed.
#3 12 st 11 lbs (179 pounds)
#2 12 st 13 lbs (181 pounds)
Second Goal - to lose something
Reward - to ironically get to eat another ten peach loop sweets
Yummy, yummy, yummy, in my tummy! So pleased too, wasn't expecting two pounds off!
This week (in the early hours of Tuesday morning to be precise) I began reading the "42 days to fit" and "100lb loser" e-books in preparation for taking the 42 days challenge (my next-but-one new challenge I think).
The 42 days challenge aims to help you lose 15-20 pounds which would be an amazing weight-loss to add to my eleven pounds so far (this from my original of 13 st 8 lbs not from the start of this weekly weigh-in blogging, a loss of only three pounds). A 15-20 pound loss would be especially helpful as I have another 47 pounds to lose to reach what would be considered a healthy weight for my height, namely 9 st 6 lbs.
Generally speaking "they" say you should aim for two pounds a week, but even a quarter of that (a pound/fortnight) would see me reach my weight-loss goal in less than two years which is a fabulus feat considering it took me well over a decade to get here. A one pound a week loss would see me hit my goal in less than a year and I think (pregnancy-permitting) it is not unreasonable of me to consider losing at least a pound a week for the next six months or so, so I am setting myself a longer-term goal of 32 pounds by my next birthday (my 32nd, which is actually about 31 weeks away). So here goes:
Third Goal
To reach (at least)my lowest post-partum weight (12 st 8 lbs) and get back to where I was in 2009/2010
Reward
Add a sticker to my "star chart" for every pound lost so far (since week one) i.e. at least six, this star chart is working toward another book buying reward. Oh and jump around the house like a mad thing.
First L-T Goal
To weigh no more than 10 st 7 lbs by 21st May, 2014 (the Wednesday closest to my 32nd birthday)
Reward
Kindle? New iPad? Ki-fit sub? New book? Chocolate??? A much smaller bottom? The ability to fit into my smaller clothes? To Be Confirmed.
Tuesday 15 October 2013
Day 15 - What Cleaning Schedule?
Today I opted out. I cooked (lunch, dinner and tomorrow's lunch). I beautified the nursery walls with the rest of the animal/woodland decals. I played a couple of new pieces on the piano. We visited a gorgeous newborn. I studied further about Judaism and Pesach and Seder. I zoned out. I didn't clean.
Monday 14 October 2013
Day 14 - Hi-ho-hi-ho I clean as I go
Cleaning schedule aside (a trip to Ikea with my Mama, SportySis and Bundle rather got in the way) I cooked up a storm of pancakes (flipping pancakes for an-hour-and-a-half cos if I do them on a high heat they all just burn) for tonight's tea and future dinners (they freeze beautifully separated out with oft-reused squares of grease-proof paper).
When I finished the kitchen was no disaster, not even dare I say a mess. Why? Well, because I learned the golden rule, the one I always though was stupid, and I cleaned as I went along:
I made up the pancake batter this morning and stored it in a empty milk jug in the fridge (my Dad always swore by letting it sit a while in the fridge).
The batter dishes from this morning were put into the (emptied before breakfast) dishwasher.
Spills were wiped up as soon as they were made and before they set hard.
I wore my apron and used it to protect my clothing and wipe at my hands to save numerous washings.
Non-dishwasher dishes were rinsed out and set into the basin beneath the sink (out of sight and thus not causing visual clutter) or into the sink itself (not piled high or obstructive).
Bundle was attended to so he didn't make extra messes.
I continued to make and plate and clear and clean as I went while cooking and finished up the last pancake with oil already back in the cupboard, dishes already in the dishwasher, Bundle cleaned up and away with Daddy to get ready for bed and the box of pancakes for the freezer filled and finishing its cooling.
Food for our dinner, food for the freezer and a not overwhelmed kitchen or pile of dishes to greet my Hubby.
Joy, joy.
When I finished the kitchen was no disaster, not even dare I say a mess. Why? Well, because I learned the golden rule, the one I always though was stupid, and I cleaned as I went along:
I made up the pancake batter this morning and stored it in a empty milk jug in the fridge (my Dad always swore by letting it sit a while in the fridge).
The batter dishes from this morning were put into the (emptied before breakfast) dishwasher.
Spills were wiped up as soon as they were made and before they set hard.
I wore my apron and used it to protect my clothing and wipe at my hands to save numerous washings.
Non-dishwasher dishes were rinsed out and set into the basin beneath the sink (out of sight and thus not causing visual clutter) or into the sink itself (not piled high or obstructive).
Bundle was attended to so he didn't make extra messes.
I continued to make and plate and clear and clean as I went while cooking and finished up the last pancake with oil already back in the cupboard, dishes already in the dishwasher, Bundle cleaned up and away with Daddy to get ready for bed and the box of pancakes for the freezer filled and finishing its cooling.
Food for our dinner, food for the freezer and a not overwhelmed kitchen or pile of dishes to greet my Hubby.
Joy, joy.
Sunday 13 October 2013
Day 13 - Sabbath Rest
Supposedly a restful day, yes it did indeed include a nap but a very busy one.
The Husband's birthday:
- an early start for me, getting up with the (surprisingly) early-rising Bundle;
- then a busy church service, sat in the back pew rather than our favoured 'baby corner;'
- then naptime (bliss and sorely needed;
- then visitors and cake (in-laws and nephews);
- then over to my parents' for dinner and more cake and time with my sis and nephews;
- then bedtime for the baby and
- then Downton Abbey - joy!
The Husband's birthday:
- an early start for me, getting up with the (surprisingly) early-rising Bundle;
- then a busy church service, sat in the back pew rather than our favoured 'baby corner;'
- then naptime (bliss and sorely needed;
- then visitors and cake (in-laws and nephews);
- then over to my parents' for dinner and more cake and time with my sis and nephews;
- then bedtime for the baby and
- then Downton Abbey - joy!
Saturday 12 October 2013
Day 12 - Tidying vs Cleaning
Today choosing tidying over cleaning; deciding to tidy instead of clean; prioritising tidying over cleaning - why?
Necessity.
Necessity is the mother of invention.
Necessity in this case forced this procrastinating, ditherer to pull up her big girl pants and get to getting.
Tidying done, the lack of cleaning didn't matter so much and the house is ready for visitors.
Cleaning house indeed.
Necessity.
Necessity is the mother of invention.
Necessity in this case forced this procrastinating, ditherer to pull up her big girl pants and get to getting.
Tidying done, the lack of cleaning didn't matter so much and the house is ready for visitors.
Cleaning house indeed.
Friday 11 October 2013
Day 11 - Decorating and Dusting
Today was all about (finishing my) decorating for autumn which of course included (finally) dusting in the lounge.
Dusting is a job I put off much too often.
Dust was also moved around on the bedroom and nursery windowsills and I decluttered the decorations on the nursery sill a bit. Also cleaned the kitchen hob.
Another day done and the house is going to bed a little cleaner and much more beautiful to me.
Dusting is a job I put off much too often.
Dust was also moved around on the bedroom and nursery windowsills and I decluttered the decorations on the nursery sill a bit. Also cleaned the kitchen hob.
Another day done and the house is going to bed a little cleaner and much more beautiful to me.
Thursday 10 October 2013
Day 10 - Finding the floor
Today's mission was to clean the floor under the master bed and cot and to clear underneath the bed in the nursery and clean under there too.
To avoid another unpleasant allergy attack I was armed with the wet cloth mop thingy and I think it's helped, no sneezing and sniffling here.
Alas my time management (and lots to do including an appointment and shopping trip) has left the job only half done and in fact I've probably hidden away more floor than I've found today. I don't understand how others work so quickly or productively, I've never had that ability; I crave it. Forever and always it has been that the path to tidy and organised is one heck of a mess, a household/room in chaos and never looking like there has actually been any progress until I've completely finished. How I long to not make a mess in order to tidy but acceptance of this state of being is the first step to recovery perhaps. Anyway here'e to finding some flooring while losing the rest...
To avoid another unpleasant allergy attack I was armed with the wet cloth mop thingy and I think it's helped, no sneezing and sniffling here.
Alas my time management (and lots to do including an appointment and shopping trip) has left the job only half done and in fact I've probably hidden away more floor than I've found today. I don't understand how others work so quickly or productively, I've never had that ability; I crave it. Forever and always it has been that the path to tidy and organised is one heck of a mess, a household/room in chaos and never looking like there has actually been any progress until I've completely finished. How I long to not make a mess in order to tidy but acceptance of this state of being is the first step to recovery perhaps. Anyway here'e to finding some flooring while losing the rest...
Wednesday 9 October 2013
Day 9 - Cleaning out the (figurative) cobwebs
This morning was mostly about clearing out the mental clutter; for some reason writing lists, making plans - fulfilled or otherwise is an extremely calming activity for me.
While Hubby and Bundle had a lovely breakfast, dressed and visited Granny together, I had a restful lie-in, delicious omelette and planning/reading time, all while sat in bed. KNOWING AND BELIEVING that Hubby was happy for me (and in fact very encouraging of me) to take a rest made all the difference, it made the time truly restful. The relaxation allowed me time to recover from yesterday's dust-bunny-induced-allergy-attack and greatly lessened the "thrills" of the extreme hormone rollercoaster I've been riding since Friday last.
As for actual physical cleaning, some still happened but not to schedule; just the organic, natural flow of that needs cleaned so I'll clean it.
Tonight I may be slowly alighting from the rollercoaster car and I am truly grateful.
While Hubby and Bundle had a lovely breakfast, dressed and visited Granny together, I had a restful lie-in, delicious omelette and planning/reading time, all while sat in bed. KNOWING AND BELIEVING that Hubby was happy for me (and in fact very encouraging of me) to take a rest made all the difference, it made the time truly restful. The relaxation allowed me time to recover from yesterday's dust-bunny-induced-allergy-attack and greatly lessened the "thrills" of the extreme hormone rollercoaster I've been riding since Friday last.
As for actual physical cleaning, some still happened but not to schedule; just the organic, natural flow of that needs cleaned so I'll clean it.
Tonight I may be slowly alighting from the rollercoaster car and I am truly grateful.
#2 Weekly Weigh-In
Keeping track thrice weekly but here's the official weekly weigh-in:
#2 12 st 13 lbs (181 pounds)
#1 13 st (182 pounds)
First Goal - to lose something and put myself in the twelves once more
Reward - ironic I know but a bag of peach loop sweets (twelve sweets only though)
Yay, with a one pound weight loss, peach loops here I come!
On to the next goal and I'm really pushing the boat out with this one - lose another pound - ta-da!
Second Goal - to lose something
Reward - to eat another ten peach loops (yummy)
#2 12 st 13 lbs (181 pounds)
#1 13 st (182 pounds)
First Goal - to lose something and put myself in the twelves once more
Reward - ironic I know but a bag of peach loop sweets (twelve sweets only though)
Yay, with a one pound weight loss, peach loops here I come!
On to the next goal and I'm really pushing the boat out with this one - lose another pound - ta-da!
Second Goal - to lose something
Reward - to eat another ten peach loops (yummy)
Tuesday 8 October 2013
Day 8 - Dust Bunny Infection
Today my "plan" was to work in the kitchen but I got distracted clearing out EVERYTHING from under our bed.
Four underbed storage bags containing out of season clothes and lots of beautifully made no longer fitting/never have fit me clothes.
Two massive storage bags of duvet/pillows.
A couple of pairs of Hubby's shoes.
A suitcase of hand luggage bags and larger handbags.
And now . . . our bins and the laundry basket and much less dust.
The dust, oh the dust. I have spent the whole day since I cleared out the clothing etc. sneezing and sniffling and coughing and blowing my nose.
The dust bunnies have definitely infected my system.
Since they are so DANGEROUS I suppose I'll have to get them before they get me.
Four underbed storage bags containing out of season clothes and lots of beautifully made no longer fitting/never have fit me clothes.
Two massive storage bags of duvet/pillows.
A couple of pairs of Hubby's shoes.
A suitcase of hand luggage bags and larger handbags.
And now . . . our bins and the laundry basket and much less dust.
The dust, oh the dust. I have spent the whole day since I cleared out the clothing etc. sneezing and sniffling and coughing and blowing my nose.
The dust bunnies have definitely infected my system.
Since they are so DANGEROUS I suppose I'll have to get them before they get me.
Monday 7 October 2013
Day 7 - Make hay while the sun shines
Today I did only my already-used-to-it-section of my Cleaning Schedule as I waited until the evening before beginning to tackle my cleaning tasks.
The saying goes, make hay while the sun shines, and it certainly is preferable - whilst I may sometimes turn out to be more productive in the evenings, it is much harder to complete tasks such as floor brushing in a poorly lit bedroom, especially during autumn/winter months.
So whether I'd rather work in the evenings or not, I need to make hay while the sun shines and brush floors at the same time.
The saying goes, make hay while the sun shines, and it certainly is preferable - whilst I may sometimes turn out to be more productive in the evenings, it is much harder to complete tasks such as floor brushing in a poorly lit bedroom, especially during autumn/winter months.
So whether I'd rather work in the evenings or not, I need to make hay while the sun shines and brush floors at the same time.
Sunday 6 October 2013
Day 6 - Work 6:Rest 1
This week has certainly not stacked up to the correct ration of six days of work and one of rest. This week has had decidedly less work than it ought and more rest but I don't think God will hold it against me; sometimes rest is required to allow for the work of tomorrow. Tomorrow will hold enough work for itself and I'll be more ready for it, after the rest of today and yesterday.
Saturday 5 October 2013
Day 5 - Daddy-Daycare
Today the Hubby just took over and I mostly took to my bed and rested and relaxed and it was bliss. After two nights of severe insomnia I was just beaten. I napped with Bundle and it was delightful. The day also held brief snippets of time with family and a first night out for this Mama since Bundle made his debut - I had a chilled out attendance at M&A's engagement dinner for three hours and Bundle had a lovely bedtime with Daddy but was ready for Mummy's return also ;)
As for cleaning of THE house - nope BUT I cleaned out my mental house very well. Even Mummy's need a day of once in a while too!
As for cleaning of THE house - nope BUT I cleaned out my mental house very well. Even Mummy's need a day of once in a while too!
Friday 4 October 2013
Day 4 - Who has time to clean?
Today's cleaning schedule called for nothing, well nothing beyond the regular quick cleans of the bathroom and kitchen and making the bed anywho and it's just as well. I had hoped to get around to cleaning the last few pieces of silver (a tray, hatpin holder, napkin ring and jewellery box), but seriously who has time to clean?
Tots' group first thing, then a couple of errands then home for naptime/lunch then straight into dropping Sunny next door for me to tutor C. Then helped my Mama with dinner preparations and wasn't home until Sunny's bedtime, oh and insomnia which had me up until four means I'm about as useful as a chocolate poker and therefore won't do wnything before I collapse into bed.
So, seriously, who has time for cleaning?
Tots' group first thing, then a couple of errands then home for naptime/lunch then straight into dropping Sunny next door for me to tutor C. Then helped my Mama with dinner preparations and wasn't home until Sunny's bedtime, oh and insomnia which had me up until four means I'm about as useful as a chocolate poker and therefore won't do wnything before I collapse into bed.
So, seriously, who has time for cleaning?
Thrice Weekly Weigh-In - Why?
Everyone focuses on the number don't they? The number on the scales must be checked weekly and must always go down and then when it doesn't there will be a week of worrying and another number to focus on but I don't want that - yes, the number is important, after all I'm trying to lose weight; of course I would like it to always go down, but let's be frank a good bowel movement can be worth a pound and maybe I haven't eaten enough fibre this week so ;) ...
I've instituted thrice weekly weigh-ins for myself because:
- my head is a sieve and I won't always remember all of the weigh-ins and they'll all be at different times of the day in various states of dress or undress
- when the number's gone up after a couple of days I want to halt it's progression before it picks up speed, if in fact it is overeating related
- it keeps me focused on my weight or rather doing something about it, it keeps the need to think before scoffing a chocolate bar firmly in mind, it helps my Mummy brain (still very much in recovery) remember the goal and the plan and the point.
I just read back over my old blog's last few posts which were all weight-loss and weigh-in related and was struck by the fact that in nineteen months (yes, over a year-abd-a-half) all I've managed to do is gain six pounds.
BUT in my efforts to "turn down my inner critic" and focus on the positive I had set myself some very good post-partum goals, some of which actually stuck! I do make my bed daily and get dressed and lay out my clothes and keep the baby bag packed and ready to go and I am aware of what's on the calendar and yay I have actually made some progress. Alas one of my goals was to move out of maternity clothes as soon as I felt comfortable in my old clothes and well I have only this last week packed away my maternity jeans because well, they are so damn comfy! Still keeping the black maternity tee though as it's very flattering on my mummy-tummy!
So progress and not so here's to more steps forward or at least a little nap in place and leaving behind the girl who forgot to stop when she was full, deterrmined to get her money's worth at the buffet breakfast.
P.S. In the interests of boredom avoidance I will only post a weekly weigh-in here and I think Wednesdays are as good a day as any (I weigh-in M/W/Sa) and I very neatly weighed in at thirteen stone even on Wednesday past (182 lbs) so any loss will drop me nicely back into the twelves and anything beyond two pounds (as if, since I'm still hardly trying, unless I get sick, which, nope I'd still mind) will land me nicely in the 170s. Last year I beat out my pre-pregnancy weight-loss to get down to 12 st 8 lbs (176 lbs) by fourteen weeks post-partum and now at 22 1/2 months PP I'm six pounds heavier and definitely less shapely (14 weeks PP was about the time of my son's baptism and I looked way better in my wrap dress then than now). Here's to making a positive difference!
I've instituted thrice weekly weigh-ins for myself because:
- my head is a sieve and I won't always remember all of the weigh-ins and they'll all be at different times of the day in various states of dress or undress
- when the number's gone up after a couple of days I want to halt it's progression before it picks up speed, if in fact it is overeating related
- it keeps me focused on my weight or rather doing something about it, it keeps the need to think before scoffing a chocolate bar firmly in mind, it helps my Mummy brain (still very much in recovery) remember the goal and the plan and the point.
I just read back over my old blog's last few posts which were all weight-loss and weigh-in related and was struck by the fact that in nineteen months (yes, over a year-abd-a-half) all I've managed to do is gain six pounds.
BUT in my efforts to "turn down my inner critic" and focus on the positive I had set myself some very good post-partum goals, some of which actually stuck! I do make my bed daily and get dressed and lay out my clothes and keep the baby bag packed and ready to go and I am aware of what's on the calendar and yay I have actually made some progress. Alas one of my goals was to move out of maternity clothes as soon as I felt comfortable in my old clothes and well I have only this last week packed away my maternity jeans because well, they are so damn comfy! Still keeping the black maternity tee though as it's very flattering on my mummy-tummy!
So progress and not so here's to more steps forward or at least a little nap in place and leaving behind the girl who forgot to stop when she was full, deterrmined to get her money's worth at the buffet breakfast.
P.S. In the interests of boredom avoidance I will only post a weekly weigh-in here and I think Wednesdays are as good a day as any (I weigh-in M/W/Sa) and I very neatly weighed in at thirteen stone even on Wednesday past (182 lbs) so any loss will drop me nicely back into the twelves and anything beyond two pounds (as if, since I'm still hardly trying, unless I get sick, which, nope I'd still mind) will land me nicely in the 170s. Last year I beat out my pre-pregnancy weight-loss to get down to 12 st 8 lbs (176 lbs) by fourteen weeks post-partum and now at 22 1/2 months PP I'm six pounds heavier and definitely less shapely (14 weeks PP was about the time of my son's baptism and I looked way better in my wrap dress then than now). Here's to making a positive difference!
Thursday 3 October 2013
Day 3 - Seeing Results
Today (Thursday) my plan was to attack a bigger or more often put-off cleaning job and so I tackled that petri dish of delights - the fridge!
It, as always, had been too long since the last time and something (who knows what) had been spilled in the 'basement' under the two removable bins - yuck. I had to wash a bottle of beer along with all the shelves/bins as whatever the spill had adhered itself to the bottle, it was way beyond wiping. I employed the lazy cleaner's best friend, a sink full of hot soapy water, and let the shelves etc. soak. While I let the sink do its job I let a couple of wet rags do their's as they soaked a couple of stuck on spills into (almost) oblivion. I suppose I could have looked upon a little scrubbing as a workout but that sounded too much like work. While the soaking worked its magic I chopped some vegetables for tea.
All this to say that currently the necessities are sitting in the now wiped out fridge while the rest of its contents are sat awaiting further (probably unnecessary) refridgeration or drying.
Waiting this long to clean out the grime does have a significant benefit - you actually see the results of your (almost) labour, sparkly clean (now once more) see-through shelving and bins and well it almost makes you motivated to keep up the good work (almost).
It, as always, had been too long since the last time and something (who knows what) had been spilled in the 'basement' under the two removable bins - yuck. I had to wash a bottle of beer along with all the shelves/bins as whatever the spill had adhered itself to the bottle, it was way beyond wiping. I employed the lazy cleaner's best friend, a sink full of hot soapy water, and let the shelves etc. soak. While I let the sink do its job I let a couple of wet rags do their's as they soaked a couple of stuck on spills into (almost) oblivion. I suppose I could have looked upon a little scrubbing as a workout but that sounded too much like work. While the soaking worked its magic I chopped some vegetables for tea.
All this to say that currently the necessities are sitting in the now wiped out fridge while the rest of its contents are sat awaiting further (probably unnecessary) refridgeration or drying.
Waiting this long to clean out the grime does have a significant benefit - you actually see the results of your (almost) labour, sparkly clean (now once more) see-through shelving and bins and well it almost makes you motivated to keep up the good work (almost).
Wednesday 2 October 2013
Day 2 - Aiming
It's only really the first day of cleaning and I didn't want to. I made a pretty slow start to the day and then it was Bundle's bedtime in the blink of an eye so I wanted to sit and rest, I was tired and especially sleepy after singing numerous lullabies but I sucked it up. I made a small effort and roughly brushed out the three rooms and *bonus* the kutchen too.
The plan was to aim for this:
- Wednesdays
--- brush dining room
--- brush guest bathroom
--- brush hallway
--- clean dining room table/change tablecloth
--- clean guest bathroom
--- dust dining room
--- dust hallway
--- dust wee room
--- straighten dining room
--- straighten hallway
--- straighten wee room
I aimed, I missed by a mile but at least I aimed and well that's another step forward.
The plan was to aim for this:
- Wednesdays
--- brush dining room
--- brush guest bathroom
--- brush hallway
--- clean dining room table/change tablecloth
--- clean guest bathroom
--- dust dining room
--- dust hallway
--- dust wee room
--- straighten dining room
--- straighten hallway
--- straighten wee room
I aimed, I missed by a mile but at least I aimed and well that's another step forward.
#1 Weekly Weigh-In
Posting this retrospectively having decided that this would be Day 1 (see here for more information):
#1 13 st (182 pounds)
Any weight loss will knock me into the twelves and anything more than two pounds (as if) will land me in the 170s, a happy (or at least happier) place indeed. Fourteen weeks post-partum saw me at 12 st 8 lbs (176 pounds) and I look forward to shrinking beyond that.
First Goal - to lose something and put myself in the twelves once more
Reward - ironic I know but a bag of peach loop sweets (twelve sweets only though)
#1 13 st (182 pounds)
Any weight loss will knock me into the twelves and anything more than two pounds (as if) will land me in the 170s, a happy (or at least happier) place indeed. Fourteen weeks post-partum saw me at 12 st 8 lbs (176 pounds) and I look forward to shrinking beyond that.
First Goal - to lose something and put myself in the twelves once more
Reward - ironic I know but a bag of peach loop sweets (twelve sweets only though)
Tuesday 1 October 2013
Day 1 - 31 days of Cleaning House
I hadn't written here for a while, too busy writing a sister blog of challenges, to do lists and done lists that has been helping me to focus greatly and improve spiritually and emotionally mainly, while also upping my game in the day to day running of my home. Today I've come home. This blog was to be my journey from house to home and this journey has continued apace - with less beauty, less philosophy but oodles more practicality. This month I return here to allow the whimsy to re-enter my journey forward, ever forward.
I was quite unconscious as September slipped into October and the 31 days of posts began, and yet, yesterday began my new journey/challenge (on my "His Challenge Accepted" blog) of adopting a cleaning schedule. The decision to make this my next challenge was the prodding of that still small voice of God, not, you know the "voices" and the first step in this voyage was simple - pray.
Prayer was/is a necessity as I step out on this journey - was I ready to commit to a level of cleaning that most people would still consider sub-par? Could I possibly jump in with both feet?
No, no I couldn't and certainly not in and of my own strength. With Divine assistance the plan is still, slowly, slowly, catch-y monkey - aiming to build up to my schedule steadily and thus more acheivably.
So Day 1 - pray and plan.
So here's the plan:
Mondays
--- brush out en-suite
--- brush out master bedroom
--- brush out nursery
--- clean en-suite
--- dust master bedroom
--- dust nursery
Tuesdays (kitchen)
--- brush floor
--- clean appliance fronts
--- clean counters
--- clean cupboard doors
--- scrub and shine sink and draining area
--- scrub floor
Wednesdays
--- brush dining room
--- brush guest bathroom
--- brush hallway
--- clean dining room table/change tablecloth
--- clean guest bathroom
--- dust dining room
--- dust hallway
--- dust wee room
--- straighten dining room
--- straighten hallway
--- straighten wee room
Thursdays (except third of the month)
--- complete a bigger/often-put-off cleaning task such as:
--- cleaning out the microwave and thoroughly cleaning and shining the hob OR
--- clearing out and cleaning the fridge OR
--- stocktaking the freezer, updating the inventory and de-icing it OR
--- cleaning the "outside" toilet OR
--- clearing, cleaning and tidying the utility/laundry area OR
--- cleaning the oven OR
--- washing windows or glass panelled doors OR
--- a major decluttering/spring cleaning/decorating project etc.
Fridays (every other week)
--- vacuum area rug in the lounge
--- vacuum carpet in the wee room
Saturdays
--- brush lounge
--- change bed linen (every two/three weeks)
--- dust lounge
--- dust and tidy car interior
--- mop or spot check lounge floor
--- straighten lounge
Sundays
--- rest
Already in place are the daily habits of laundry, a quick-clean of the bathrooms and the kitchen/sink. I also already bleach the toilets three times a week. While brushing out and cleaning the en-suite has been a Monday task for a number of weeks. The bed is made evry morning and that has certainly been a good habit to add. This month will focus on simply working through the above schedule as much as I can and giving myself grace when I fail but staying committed enough to jump back in and keep trying.
Here's to a month of cleaning house, sorry I mean a month of cleaning (my) house (more) and not stopping this oh so exciting schedule once the month is up, but in point of fact actually cleaning my house everyday for like ever!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)