Explaining Death To A Five Year Old

Yes, that's right. How on earth do you explain death to a five year old?

Well, you do the best you can based on what you believe in, which is exactly what I did.

Recently, on of my son's classmates passed away due to a tragic accident. Now, obviously, prayers are VERY welcome for the family of this little girl. I cannot begin to imagine the emotions they are experiencing but I do know that PRAYER in numbers is a very powerful thing. So, please PRAY!

Canyon is a very tender-hearted child. He cries when the ASPCA commercials come on or if his feelings are hurt. It breaks my heart. So, when I heard of this tragedy, I immediately began preparing for what I would tell him about death and heaven and everything else that goes along with that. He goes to a private, Christian school, so I knew they would be discussing the matter in class and Canyon would have questions. We have tried to keep him sheltered when it comes to death because he worries, like me. (Unfortunately, he got his worrying/anxiety from me.)

He deserves to have a childhood and not be aware of what a terrible place the world is becoming, or so I believe. Well, this threw a big ole wrench in my plan to keep him unaware. But you know what? I'm glad. Canyon is a very compassionate and caring child. He was with his dad the first two days after learning about what happened. I knew when I picked him up Wednesday from school that I better be prepared. I WAS!

He got into my car, buckled his seatbelt and immediately asked me if I had heard about what I happened.

I replied, "Yes, buddy, I did. Are you okay?"

Here's where the tough part comes in....

He said, "I am. But can you tell me what happened?" 

I said, "Why don't you tell me what your teacher told you."

He did. It was what I'd hope that they would tell a five year old.... That she was in Heaven with Jesus and she was happy that she got to see her two PawPaw's again. He asked what Heaven was. I explained my version of Heaven. He was happy with my answer and told me he was sad that she wouldn't be at school anymore. Then, he changed the subject. I let him. You can't keep bringing it up.

Later, while passing a cemetery near our house, he says, "I think that's where *SHE* is." 

I had to explain that she would be near her mommy and daddy so they could visit her all the time.

He seemed to get it but then his little voice cracked and he looked at me with his innocent little eyes and asked, "Why won't you take me to go see her? My teacher said we need to have our parents take us to go see her."

Now, I didn't know what to say. I am not taking my son to a funeral. I'm just not. People can say whatever negative things they wish. It's not happening. So, we plan to visit her grave soon because he wants to bring her sunflowers. I won't deny my son to visit her grave because he specifically asked to do so. If it helps him, I am happy to do it.

Death is not an easy thing for me, and probably for anyone. But when your child hurts over death, over a death that is so sudden and terrible, you start to question the world. You start to question everything. Children are such a precious gift and so innocent and sweet. They should not be faced with something like this. 

My heart goes out to this family and I wish there was a way to take their pain away. I will continue to pray for them, daily. I will also pray for my son, for him to better understand death and Heaven, and Jesus.

WHAT A WEEK. 

XOXO,

B

Back At IT!

Hello to all of my BEAUTIFUL readers. Love you.

I am back. Back again. <--Those from my generation will get this reference to a terrible song. Haha.

Anyhow, let's talk BEHAVIOR in school and at HOME. We are struggling. Big time.

My son is five. FIVE. And he is ALL boy. He is wild, energetic, and full of life. He is also extremely smart. And you know, I must say this.....your kids intelligence reflects how well you are doing with sticking to work with them. We (as in his dad and I) work with Canyon regularly. We have since...well, since birth. LOL He is super smart. <-- This is why I think he is getting into trouble at school. He's bored. WHAT to do about that? NO CLUE. I am just a mom, taking things one day at a time, figuring it out...probably much like YOU.

But...I am honestly at a loss. Here's my dilemma.

My son has had notes sent home recently that state he is wrestling at school. I mean, I honestly think that is NORMAL behavior for five year old boys. Right? However, there's this kid in his class who seems to be a BAD APPLE. He's already been sent to the office and PADDLED for wrestling. I stress to Canyon to just stay away from him. Apparently, that doesn't work. I am not there to witness what happens exactly but Canyon comes home with a new story daily. I know how "well" his memory is but I also don't want to NOT believe him. That's a battle in itself. How much trust do you instill in a five year old? Wow. Next blog!

Anyway, so here we are. Funny thing IS, he and this kid were SITTING AT THE SAME TABLE in class. It took almost a month before he came home and said, "I sit at a different table now." FINE BY ME. Hello!!!! If you have kids disrupting, SEPARATE THEM. Am I wrong? My kid is well-adjusted to LIFE. Move him. I won't mind, I promise. So, when he said he had been moved, I was happy. Well, that just made the wrestling at recess worse. What can I do? I've punished him. I made him pack all his toys away for a week. I've made a chore chart, a behavior chart. I have done it ALL. BUT he is an ANGEL child at home or when he is in public with us OR even when he is playing with other kids, at the park, etc. 

So, the problem STEMS from SCHOOL. I cannot keep dealing with these little notes: 

"Please speak with Canyon about his wrestling." Um, no...now I am at the point of....either fix the problem at school...or deal with it. Seriously. It's borderline ridiculous. I'd love feedback on this. EVEN if it is terrible. Haha.

Also, he says that this kid....is MEAN to other kids...and Canyon has gotten into trouble for standing up for these other kids. HOW do you even begin to explain that one? I will not punish my kid for standing up for kids that are scared to stand up to a BULLY...because that is what this kid is. A BULLY. I witnessed it myself....while in carpool to pick my son up.

The solution I have come up with...Parent-teacher conference. Next week. I really am a nice, understand mother that will take responsibility and accept when my child's behavior is unacceptable to the teacher...BUT, I feel the problem is deeper than just that. I will go in with an open mind...but I won't let her BS me either. Should be interesting. Be expecting a blog about this meeting. 

;) 

Whoa...that felt GOOD to blog. I feel better already. Thanks to all my loyal readers. Life has been crazy. I'll be filling you guys in slowly. LOTS of exciting things to come. Stay Tuned...and Stay Beautiful.

XOXO,

B

As My Kid Says..."What THE?!?"

I don't get it.

HAPPY FRIDAY!


I just don't get it.

My kid is five.

He is in kindergarten.


I should be seeing "Good job!" on his papers, not...."Dots too big" or "Please color animals appropriate colors."

WTF!?

Are you kidding me?

Canyon is an extremely bright kid with a wonderful personality and very vivid imagination..

SO FREAKING WHAT...he colored a turtle ORANGE.


Ask him what color a turtle is, he will say GREEN...duh.

WHY are we not teaching these kids to express themselves when they are coloring a coloring sheet. That should be what kindergarten does! Why aren't we encouraging them to use their imagination?

This bugs me.

I am annoyed and I don't get it.

I'm not bragging. BUT...my kid is too smart. He catches on to things and NEVER forgets something.


They have to learn a bible verse every week and recite it to their class on Friday's.

My kid knew it Monday night. He said he was going to go to school on Tuesday and tell his teacher.

He loves his teacher and really, so do I... I don't love the negative remarks on his "take home" papers.

I really hope she is using postive remarks in the classroom and not correcting these kids every two seconds. That's going to end in a parent-teacher conference, with THIS momma.

Moving on.

My kid hates after care. This is going to be an intersting transition over the next few weeks.

I shall document.

On to other news, I am making a trip to Kohl's in T-minus 30 minutes. I need clothes. They have clothes...and I don't spend a fortune. Wish me luck!

I started selling Avon. I love it.

Check out my website! Order some goodies! :)
www.youravon.com/bhutchinson

New campaign starts TOMORROW...LOTS of great items for Fall.

Xoxo (I'm sipping a LARGE vanilla latte--Nope, it's not skinny),
B

WTF!?

What a mother freaking week this has been. Really, the last two weeks have been sort of ...WILD? Intense? A mixture of those two.

My son is currently attending his fourth day of Kindergarten. I've been so nervous about his transition and how well he would really do with it. He loves it. I am relieved to say the least.

HOWEVER, I will say this...the excitement of getting up early to go to SCHOOL lasted all of ONE day. Lucky me...and lucky Dale (his daddy). Haha

He is NOT a morning person. I mean, I'm not the nicest in the morning, but once I force myself out of bed, I am pretty excited about the day. I loveeeeeeeeeeeee mornings on the weekend or days when I have nothing to do...Oh, wait....That's NEVER.

Anyway, I've tried to establish a routine at my house...his dad is doing the same. So far, it's working for us.

Here is what my handsome man looks like when I wake him up! (Haha)

And this is what he looks like all dressed for his new school:

Gosh, it really is amazing how much I love that little guy. I cannot believe he is as big as he is.

XOXO,
B

Hello, Hello!

Hiya!

I am in a fantastic mood today! :) I have dropped a whopping SIX pounds in a week! Oh, I love my life.

Now, I have also been working my ass off, so that helps! I am looking forward to hitting the gym today! Then, 30-day shred starts tomorrow.

I've been doing random workouts at home the past week and I love it.

I'm learning to let things go. Like, really let them go. There's no reason to sit and analyze every little thing in life. You gotta hold your head up high and move on. That's how I like to live.

I'm an overly anxious person with a severe worrying problem. I struggle.

I have a WHOLE lot going on in my life right now and I am taking it all one day at time.

Maybe I will have some NEW, exciting news in the near future. We'll see.

;)


Hope you guys are seeing wonderful results. :) Work it out hard!


My baby starts school NEXT WEEK. I feel the anxiety just thinking about it.

ONE.DAY.AT.A.TIME! There will be a whole blog and lots of pictures next week!

My baby boy is starting a new journey. It's bittersweet.


**Got a new outfit the other day...a size smaller than I was before...and I curled my hair because the weather was making it curly anyway...It just needed to be TAMED. Strange combo. I don't look like myself here.

YES, it is a mirror picture. I don't have random people take a picture of me. Weird.
And, yes..I can be prissy at times. :)

I must say, I feel great about myself. :) That's the BEST feeling ever.

XOXO,
B

Chick-fil-A VS. The Gay Community (My Opinion)

Okay, today I am sharing a PERSONAL opinion. If you don't like what I have to say, there's a button at the top, right of the screen (a red "X"), hit it and you shall be relieved of your reading duties.

My news feed on Facebook has be BLOWING UP with information about Chick-Fil-A.

Why? Because EVERYONE has a freaking opinion, which I find to be absolutely hilarious.

Now, before I got into my little rant, let me say this:

Race, religion, weight, hair color, OR SEXUAL PREFERENCE ...it doesn't freaking matter to me. If I like you as an OVERALL PERSON, then...well, I like you. Every person is put on this earth to live THEIR life--and it's extremely sad to me that no one is able to do that without judgment.

There are so many judgmental people on this earth that it has come to be quite fascinating.

When did everyone assume they have the right to judge others?

Don't get me wrong, I sin. Everyone does. EVEN THE MOST PERFECT PERSON SINS.

It's life. But, I can tell you this....I don't sit around worrying myself with other people's lives. I have my own life to live, my own shit to deal with. I don't have the TIME or energy to judge what someone else is doing with their life. Take that how you want.

I am a Christian. I love God. I believe that when the time comes for me to go, I will go to Heaven. I have my OWN type of relationship with God. He and I, we do alright together. I pray, DAILY. I also talk to God as if he were sitting next to me (which I like to think he is)...I talk to him mostly in the car. And you know what? I am a good person. I make decision in my life to better myself. I know that God loves me UNCONDITIONALLY. That's my story. That's my way of doing things. No, I don't go to church every Sunday. And, honestly, most of you probably wouldn't be able to handle my opinion on church. So, I'll save that one for later.

My point is, only YOU can know and be secure in your relationship with God. And you know what?

If I was gay, my relationship with God wouldn't change ONE BIT. I know what the Bible says, I've read it. It's also 2012 people. And I also know that I wouldn't stop eating at a restaurant because they didn't support my lifestyle. That-to me- is childish. I know people who say "I can't eat at Chick-fil-A because they don't support gay marriage" THINK they are making a difference, but I can tell you, you really aren't.

I'm a single mother. I had a baby and I wasn't married. I know what it's like to be judged. But....it's life. I don't get all pissed off about it and start freaking out. I hold my head up and I continue to stay PROUD of the fact that I have an incredible son who loves me. If Chick-fil-A all of a sudden started saying they didn't support single parents, I wouldn't stop eating there. I like their freaking chicken sandwich and so does my kid. It's food people. If I like it, I'm eating it. End of story. Plus, it's not like they freaking stand at the door saying, "We don't like gay people." Get real. They are friendly to every single person that comes in and they serve every single person the same. There are no judgmental looks or harsh words. The company, as a whole, has a right to believe/support what they want.

Just like YOU have the right to believe/support what YOU want.

No matter what happens, Chick-fil-A will not change how they do things. Just like they CHOOSE to be closed on Sunday's. They gladly pay a fine for that. That's their choice. Give them a break. They keep being thrust into the spotlight for what they believe. That's just not right, in my opinion. They don't support gay marriage. Big deal! There are sooooo many people/companies in the world that don't. Why do we have to keep making it a big issue over and over?

I know that people don't choose to be gay; it's a way of life. I get it. I love gay people. I have absolutely no opinion about their lives. It's who they are. But, I also don't have an opinion about straight people either. The media has a way of getting people all bent out of shape over OLD news when they have nothing else to report-which is the case here. Chick-Fil-A doesn't support gay marriage. That's just a fact.

I don't agree with the media lashing out at Chick-fil-A....just like I don't agree with the media lashing out at gay people. I think gay marriage should be legalized. What does it really hurt? I mean, come ONNNNN.... people. This argument is getting OLD. Everyone should have the right to choose who they marry. Right? YES. Simple as that.

If everyone would stop worrying SO much about things like this, we might have a chance to rescue our ever-failing economy and worry about more important worldly things. The level of importance on these types of things is completely BACKWARDS. It disgusts me.

There are so many points I could argue...but the facts are there:

Chick-fil-A supports "“the biblical definition of the family unit.” (Which can mean SO many things!)

Gay people are pissed.

I like Chick-fil-A and I like gay people.

Let's move on.

XOXO,

B

30-Day Shred. Bring it Jillian

I am starting Jillian's BEAST of a workout, 30-Day Shred TODAY! Should be fun.

I hope I don't die.

Haha.


I hope you guys are staying on the wagon. I fell off. I'm human. It happens.

I went to Taco Bell last night.

It was delicious. I regretted it immediately.

Damn it.

Today, I started off with a BIG, fat COKE. Regular coke. I needed it. Or so I thought.

I felt like shit before 9 AM.

I am now drinking a freaking amazing smoothie from Smoothie King.

GLADIATOR. I add strawberries and banana to mine. Delish.

Try it.

Here's to starting the freak over. Again.

Foodie Wednesday?!

I am lazy this week. REALLY lazy...

I'm giving you all a recipe today...Even though it is WORKOUT WEDNESDAY and not FOODIE FRIDAY.

First let me say this, I have been using my crockpot a whole lot and I love it. This recipe is not a crockpot recipe though. More of those to come.


This is:

Cheesy Rotel Chicken Pasta

Ingredients:
4 Boneless, skinless chicken tenders, chopped
1/2 c. shredded cheddar cheese
1/4 cup feta cheese crumbles
1 can rotel
1/2 meduim sized yellow onion, diced
1 c cooked pasta, any kind
1 TBSP garlic, minced

1. Cook your noodles. :)
2. Sautee your chopped onions and garlic in a tablespoon olive oil.
3. Once soft, add the whole can of rotel.
4. Once the liquid is almost cooked out, add your chicken.
5. Let cook until chicken cooks through.
6. In a baking pan, combine chicken/rotel mixture with noodles and cheese, mix.
7. Sprinkle cheese on top and bake at 350 degrees for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is bubbly.

ENJOY!

This recipe was delicious.

Holler!

Good morning people!

I am having a pretty crazy week at work! So, the blogs are lacking! I apologize.

I'll make up for it next week. There will be BLOGS and lots of new crap...pictures and such.

I am meeting my fitness goals, are you? If not, get your ass off the coach and get to it. Enough is enough. Do it!

Canyon comes to my house tonight and I am sooooo excited about getting some MOMMY HUGS and kisses. I love that boy more than life itself. He is simply amazing. I thank God every single day for giving me the opportunity to be his mommy.

I'm FINALLY starting to work on his baby book and his yearly books. I will post pictures of that too once I get going. I have a HUGE box of pictures, art, etc. to go through...Seriously, no joke.


Life is good. I have no complaints right now. I'm looking forward to the future.

But, I do wonder, what the HELL some people are thinking sometimes-with soooo many things. I'll go into more deal next blog, so look for it.

Also, I am GOING OUT this weekend. Interesting? YES. Very. I plan on shaking some ass and introducing myself to whoever walks past me. There comes a point in life when you just have to take a leap...and build your wings on the way down.

Game on, LIFE.


XOXO,
B

Have a great day peeps!

Happy Friday, Peeps!

TGIF, right? Being off on Wednesday (HAPPY LATE 4th) made the rest of this week almost unbearable. I am exhausted.

I have been to the gym everyday this week.

Weight=141. Still. I need to up my cardio. EVEN THOUGH, I know my weight hasn't moved because I cheated a little (food-wise) this week. It was a holiday and my mom and dad bbq'd. Give me a break! I needed it.  ;)

BUT....that's okay to slip every now and then. It's human nature. You can't be completely satisfied when you are maintaining a healthy lifestyle if you don't allow yourself to have goodies occasionally.

I found a recipe on the lovely pinterest and I am trying it out! I am making it healthy by using fat free beans, and 2% cheese...and of course, whole wheat tortillas.

Last night, I got the ingredients to recreate this recipe: http://pinterest.com/pin/267893877804976065/


All I know is, this morning when I took the cooked meat out of the Crockpot, it was so tender and delicious (I tasted it)...So, that's what is for supper tonight at my house...along with some yummy treats for my kiddo...We are having movie night. :)


Let me just say this...I found a STANDING Ab video by the famous JM (Jillian Michaels) on Pinterest and it is BRUTAL. Seriously, check it out here: http://pinterest.com/pin/267893877804975591/


Just remember, as much as you do NOT want to get off your ass and work it, you will regret it if you don't. So, JUST DO IT. I almost flew past the exit where my gym is yesterday. But, I somehow managed to click my blinker on and exit. I knew I needed to go and it was the worst 3 1/2 miles I have done at the gym yet. But, I did it. I felt better (still just as tired). But, I felt accomplished...just knowing that I went even though I'd rather just catch the stomach flu and drop a few pounds that way. Oh well, life.


I'll leave you with this little bit of encouragement:

XOXO,
B

Motherhood Monday

I.Am.Beyond.....STRESSED....

Wow! What a WEEK!

First, let me say that my grandmother is doing amazing and is on schedule (fingers crossed) to go home TOMORROW! Whoo HOO! The power of prayer is amazing. I must give props to the big man upstairs! LOVE!

Now, I found out just how WELL-behaved my child really is this past week. After having to be at the hospital almost daily, he sat and played his game and listened to me well. I don't know if he could sense the anxiety or if he is JUST that good...but whatever! He did awesome and I am so proud to be his mom. I miss him like crazy when he is with his dad. I mean, LIKE CRAZY. I hate it. I cry, A LOT...and I just feel an ache in my heart. It's not how it should be.



I weighed 141.5 this morning. I'm okay with that. I will be in the 130's this week though. I am determined.

I joined the gym and I love it (suprinsingly). I thought I would never go but I am going and I am actually looking forward to it. It's nice and relaxing. I am also doing incredible with my meal prep! Are YOU?

It helps, just sayin'.....

I am putting away a CRAZY amount of water a day and it is making me feel refreshed.

I took my mom grocery shopping yesterday and forced her to jump on my "health nut" bandwagon. Let's hope she sticks with it!

Let's see....this week has been wild and crazy and I apologize for being MIA. I really do.

But, as we all know, with me--FAMILY comes FIRST. ALWAYS.

My kid is starting school in a MONTH. Mini-panic-attack. Holy crap!

I must go freak out in private now.

XOXO,
B

QUICK!

Hey guys,

Sorry about not posting a WORKOUT WEDNESDAY this week..

My grandmother is in the hospital, which is where I have been the last few days.

She had to have bypass surgery yesterday (5 total) along with some major artery reconstruction.

I will start fresh blogging on MONDAY.

Please send up a quick prayer for her! Thank you!

XOXO,
B

Motherhood Monday

Morning peeps,

It's been a rough weekend/re-start to this diet.

143.5 this morning.

Signing up for my gym membership TODAY!
WHOO!

I am actually really excited about this...anyway, more on that WEDNESDAY!


My son absolutely LOVES the beach. He could sit and build sand castles ALL DAY if I let him. I try not to let him because he is allergic to sunscreen. (shitty)

Anyway, he had a fabulous time at the beach and our little weekend getaway. I needed it.

I'll post pictures later tonight.

He has been feeling under the weather though so that caused some dely while at the beach...just trying to get him in high spirits so he could enjoy himself.

I don't know about other moms, but when my baby doesn't feel well, my heart breaks.

I hate it.

We are so exhausted from our trip but it was worth it.

Pictures coming soon.

XOXO,
B

Foodie Friday [ONE DAY EARLY]

I don't know why this didn't post on Thursday!



Here's what I wrote:

I am blogging today instead of tomorrow because...well, tomorrow I will be RELAXING on the beach.

Jelly, I know.

Trust me, this is MUCH-NEEDED with all I have going on in my life.


So, are you super busy in mornings and don't really have time to make breakfast. I have a healthy alternative for you.

I found this RECIPE while putting in my usual time on PINTEREST (duh)....

Check it out for an easy, on-the-go BREAKFAST idea! I will be trying it for SURE.

XOXO,
B

HUMP DAY!

Yes, finally WEDNESDAY...today and tomorrow full of WORK and then off to the BEACH for the weekend with my little guy.

141 this morning. I'm okay with that... I haven't been pushing myself as hard as I should.

Workout Wednesday is going to be a day where I talk strictly about working out. BUT, I might throw in some goodies on Wednesdays too!       

I have noticed that I have several new readers. Welcome! Feel free to comment, introduce yourselves, or whatever you want. It's what I am here for.

I am REALLY trying to get a routine going. It seems like if I set my alarm for 4:45-5, I sleep through it and wake up at 6:30, which means...LATE. This has happened the last three days.

I want to workout in the MORNING. It makes me feel better. Plus, after the kind of days I have, I do NOT want to go home and run/workout. I just don't. But...that seems to be the routine I am getting myself into.

I am slowly going to train myself to get up, run, shower, dress, work. Then, RELAX when I get home. That's how I'd like it to be anyway. Haha.

My RUN workout consists of ....Running/Walking/Jogging (depends on the day) TWO MILES.

My workouts consist of the workout plan mentioned HERE!

Now, I have been LAZY lately and skipped a few days. That's why I am lingering at 141.

But, you know what? Come Monday morning, I WILL BE UP AT 5, running my little heart out. PICTURES WILL HAPPEN for you guys.

All I know is, if I can do this, YOU can. Hell, you could do it anyway. All anything in life takes is DEDICATION and HARD ASS WORK.

You got this.

The beach will more than likely be a HUGE wake-up call for me and I am hoping that next week or the week after, my ass will be in a GYM running on a freaking treadmill and doing weight training. This will be where my life changes.

I don't need a trainer... like I thought I did. I have everything I need. I just need an attitude problem when it comes to working out...then, I am set. And, well, I definitely have an attitude problem. ;)

Working out is NEVER easy. Or at least, it NEVER SHOULD BE EASY.

If you are exhausted, physically, mentally, and emotionally after a workout, you didn't do as well as you should have. You didn't push yourself as hard as you should have.

Along with the gym, me and Jillian are going to be forming a nice love/hate relationship....As soon as I can manage to get to WAL-MART. Boo.

Oh, and here's a treat.....we all know eating healthy is EXPENSIVE. I have a plan.

Couponing.

Yes, I will be a couponer from here on out. I actually clipped some yesterday. So, once I get going, I'll share my tips here.

I need HELP. I need new running shoes. ANY ADVICE, comment or email @ bhutchinson401@gmail.com I'll be shopping for them on SUNDAY. Thanks RUNNERS.

Now, off to enjoy some oatmeal and coffee at my desk!

:)



Peace & Love Bitches!

Xoxo,
B

Tuesday's Treat

Hello, all.

I know I said I will be blogging THREE days a week...BUT sometimes I want to blog more.

Today, I just want to share a photo collage with you.

This is ME...Before baby, 8 months pregnant, and me in May.

Weight...
BEFORE BABY: 115
8- MONTHS PREGNANT: 175
AFTER BABY/BEFORE P90X: 150-160
Me in MAY 2012: 145

I weighed in at 141 this morning...DOWN 4 lbs in a week... "GOAL WEIGHT"= 125-130

I know I will never weigh 115 again and that's okay with me. I honestly don't care THAT much about the weight part. As long as I can put on a pair of jeans and my fat doesn't hang over, I am GOOD. ;)

Weight-loss journey's are difficult. I have been in a place where I hated my body and how I looked. That sent me into a state of depression. I am now working hard to get where I want to be...HEALTHY and feeling good about myself.

It's going to be a process and take A LOT of work and time to get there, but I am READY.

GAME FACE=ON!

Plus, this pretty much explains it all....

XOXO,
B

P.S.

Just a little extra for YOU....

If you don't already have the MyFitnessPal app...get it! It is amazing (and free)!

And, follow me: bhutch87

;)

Welcome to Motherhood Monday!

First off, GOOD MORNING...and Happy Monday....even if you aren't so happy about it being Monday! Haha. Me and Monday usually get a long okay....but sometimes, like this morning, I wanted to stay tucked in my cozy bed and SLEEP. I never get to do that. EVER.

First, let me give you a little re-cap of my weekend! Canyon and I put together a little booklet/craft for his daddy (for Father's Day) and if you have never done anything like what I am about to tell you with your kids, YOU SHOULD. It is hilarious.

We created a booklet  "ALL ABOUT DAD" and we answered questions about Dale and Canyon drew pictures and we had a great time...Some of the answers he gave me, I laughed so hard, I had tears in my eyes. It's funny because MOST of the things kids say when you ask them a question is DEAD ON. That makes it sooooo much more meaningful.

 *Happy Father's Day to all the dads out there!*

Anyhoo, my child makes me laugh CONSTANTLY. He takes after me in soooo many ways but he also takes after Dale A LOT! He has the perfect little personality. He is so alert and smart and he isn't afraid of anything really...that scares the hell out of me.

Today, I want to discuss kids and EATING. Sometimes, Canyon eats GREAT...other times he barely eats a thing allllllll day. This is NORMAL. Every parent fears that their child isn't eating enough... Coming from the mom that freaks the hell out about EVERYTHING, I will tell you, this is not a major concern...UNLESS, he/she is going days, etc. and also acting funny, then...GO TO THE DOCTOR. I took Canyon to the doctor for not eating. His doctor (who was also my doctor until a few years ago) chuckled and said, "He is fine. Kids will eat when they are hungry." I didn't like hearing this because I knew what that meant....my routine is forever gone. Haha. I am OCD.

Canyon would not eat whatever meal I had prepared while D & I were eating but I can guarantee that 30-45 minutes when we were finished, he was saying..."Momma, I hun-dree." Of course you are.

After about a year of this, Canyon was FOUR and I decided, that's it....he will eat at meal times. And, he has done greatttttt with it. At five years old, he eats healthy...almost all of the time and he can put away some food when he has his mind on it. My child also love water which I think is phenomenal. I love this about being a parent. He doesn't rely on juice or SODA, at all. He like water...and capri suns on occasion.

Dale and I have done a great job thus far raising our child and although I know we have many more challenges ahead, I am confident that we will overcome whatever battles we must face and Canyon will turn out to be an incredible young man.

Now, let me leave you with a few thoughts....

XOXO!
-B



Finally, Friday!!!

WHOO HOO! I loveeee Friday. It's my second favorite "F" word. ;)

I won't lie, this week sucked. I hate weeks that just drag on FOREVER....

I ate like shit, I didn't workout, and I just don't seem to care this week.

I try to pump myself up while I am at work to go home and workout....FAIL. No, wait....EPIC FAIL.

I go home and do nothing. I play with Canyon, watch TV, clean, etc....but I do nothing really productive. SLACKER much?!

I have decided....(read the following in the announcer voice that we all know and love)...IT'S TIMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMME! Yes, I just did that. Total nerd. I know this.


Anyway, it is time for me to join a gym. AS MUCH AS I HATEEEEEE going to the gym, I need a swift kick in the ass, and I think that just might do it....At least for now.

So, I am signing up at a local gym and I will be making myself go before/after work or BOTH. I really LOVE working out. I really do. It's just that right now, in my life, I am seriously lacking the motivation to get up and go. AND...I know that stems from eating like shit, semi-depression (a lot going on right now) and just plain ole STRESS. So, I know myself and I know once I get started, it will be easier for me and I will start to look forward to going.

It's just a matter getting to that point.

So, I will definitely keep you updated on how that goes and what routine I start up at the gym. If you do not have a gym membership, that is NO excuse. I haven't had one for YEARS and I still managed to lose weight and workout. (If you would like information, please email me...you can find my email at the top of the page)!


Now, next thing....
I must go grocery shopping for healthy food and eat ONLY that. I am really interested in couponing....I may try to find a local class on it...IF you are from the Baton Rouge area and know of a class, please, PLEASE let me know. I would greatly appreciate it.


As a mom, I want to set an example for Canyon. He needs to know that maintaining a healthy lifestyle (minus the first year of college--we all know that's impossible) is very important. So, I must plant that idea into my head, more than it already is, and force myself to change my life. It should be ridiculous fun. Right?
Haha.

Time to put my best foot forward and get shit done.

:)



I hope you guys have a FABULOUS weekend. I will be indulging in my last few days of freedom before the gruesome workouts start....

AND

Don't forget the NEW blog schedule starts next week! I am looking forward to it!

Xoxo,
B

TUESDAY....

This morning's weight: 144lbs.
I lost a POUND. A single pound. I am hoping to lost 1-2 more by week's end.


Oh....Happy Tuesday! I won't be starting the new blog schedule until next week, so I am just updating away this week!


I don't know about you guys, but I hate to eat breakfast. Maybe it's because I know I HAVE to eat breakfast (or I should rather)...but it just makes me turn up my nose. I hate it. And...yes, I know hate is a strong word.


I eat oatmeal most days. Sugar-free Apples & Cinnamon with ONE splenda. I make mine with water and microwave it. It's easy, quick, and it seems to be the only thing I can make myself eat in the morning.


Here's what my breakfast looked like this morning:

I just finished...and I wanted to complain bitch about it...So, I am updating my blog... I mean, that IS the reason I have this BLOG...to talk about myself, my son, my life, anything about ME.


Haha.





Now, my next daily obstacle...WATER.


I usually stop and get a BIG smart water in the morning on my way to work. I drink that plus one regular sized bottle of water throughout the day...That's more than half of the daily intake I force myself to drink.
Then, when I get home and workout/run/whatever I do that specific day, I drink the rest of the required amount with no problems. So, it's getting better. SLOWLY.


Isn't it funny how EASY it is to GAIN weight BUT losing it is just a....bitch?!


I bought a swimsuit last night. Random, I know.
I didn't try it on, I just bought it. One, because I knew if I tried it on, I would talk myself out of it. And, two....because it is FRICKIN' cute and it was only $20! Hello, STEAL. I am such a little bargain shopper.


I got home, put it on....and well, let's just say, I took my OFFICIAL before pictures.BLAH!
Goal-- try it on again at the end of each month and take progress pictures. Don't worry, I will post some before/progress pictures SOON enough. I have to take some of myself... NOT in a swimsuit. I will also be posting measurements. I just have to get off my lazy ass and actually do that. Plus, I have an adorable pair of white shorts hanging in my bedroom. That's visual motivation.




I've been considering getting a treadmill. I love, love, LOVE to run outside. That's why I don't have a gym membership. BUT....on rainy, nasty days, I usually skip a workout. I cannot afford to go run in the rain and get sick...and miss work, and be an asshole mom who just wants to lay on the couch because I am sick ....So, I think a treadmill would be a good investment for me. I priced some and I found one at Academy for $279... not too bad, I guess. Maybe I will shoot to buy that in a few months. For now, I will run, run, run, OUTSIDE daily.


Let's talk SOUP.


I love soup. When I say, LOVE, I mean...I adore it. I could eat it every single day of my life. We all know that isn't the smartest thing to do, right?


Wellllllll, I am going to be researching some HEALTHY versions of my favorites. Those will be posted here! Check back for those on Foodie Friday's.




Canyon told me the other day that I am beautiful. It really made me stop and think...and take a good, long look at myself in the mirror. I constantly find all my faults and I never give myself enough credit.


I am a beautiful woman. Every woman is BEAUTIFUL.


We don't give ourselves enough credit ladies. Think about how your children or your spouse, see you. I know my son sees me as a strong, beautiful woman who laughs A LOT and loves him more than anything in the whole world. He knows that because that is what I portray to him.


I need to allow myself to be happier in my own skin. I am far from perfect. I never want to be perfect. Perfect is boring. I just want to be confident. I'm getting there. This whole fitness/health journey is helping me.


If you ever feel like you are just NOT enough, remember, you ARE enough. You are gorgeous.
And, when you need motivation, here's my GO-TO quote. I look at this about 100 times a day...It gives me strength. It gives me hope. And, it makes me feel empowered.

This makes me want to go home and RUN my little heart out.

Maybe I will do just that tonight.

Let's go, ladies. We got this!


XOXO!!!!

The struggle

I have a love/hate relationship with a lot of things....

Such as, television series, rain, and obviously food.
I love television series; I hate when they end.
I love rain when I am sleeping; I hate it when I have shit to do.
I loveeeee food but I hateeeee what it does to my body.

I also have a strictly hate relationship with all those people that can eat whatever they want and NOT gain a single little pound. You can all BITE ME!
Kidding.
Good for YOU.

Me, on the other hand, I pay for everything I eat.

I am trying. Week one was a BITCH. How did you do?

I am now adding in moreeee running this week. I downloaded and app that will allow me to do FUN RUNS up until 10k....I am excited to work my way up to that 10K! Ultimate goal...run a marathon. The day that happens will be a damn miracle in itself.

Now, the motivation is the hardest thing. If you have ANY advice on how to get/stay motivated, please share with me. I beg of you. I am starting to find that quotes and VISUALS help me. I tried making a voice recording (of me yelling at myself) to get up earlier to run before work. I told myself to shut up.... FAIL.


bhutchinson401@gmail.com  <--Motivate me.

I am hoping that updating this blog will hold me accountable more than not. So, I hope to encourage myself by encouraging all of my readers. All TWO of you. Haha.



On a totally different note, Dale and I took Canyon to see Madagascar 3 yesterday. Loves. So cute. Canyon loved it too and he had a blast. That kid makes my world go 'round.

Quick update today...

More tomorrow after I kill myself running tonight. Hooray!

Something new coming to this mom's journey....

Weekly routines!

Monday-Momma Monday  .... I'll post all about MOTHERHOOD.

Tuesday- (Rarely will post).....EXTRAS

Wednesday- Workout Wednesday...All about WORKING OUT.

Thursday- (Rarely will post).....EXTRAS

Friday- Foodie Friday....All about FOOD!

Three times a week.

I am also going to start something new...WHERE I TAKE PHONE PICS OF ALL I EAT...those will be incorporated into Foodie Friday.

LOTS of new, fun things coming to this BLOG. Time to spice things up! ;)

How's it going?

Are you sore?

If you are doing the routine that I posted earlier this week, you should be. ;)

I am sore...mainly in my thighs.

I am super excited about this journey. I am highly motivated at this point in my life.

Now, I'll go ahead and update you on my lil handsome guy.

Canyon is now FIVE YEARS OLD. Can you believe it? I can't. It's devastating.

Okay, not really...but it makes me miss having a LITTLE kid.

We finished tee ball, which was a complete BLAST. I highly suggest getting your kids involved in activites at an early age.

Now, we are in Summer camp and sooooooon we will be in KARATE!

SHOULD BE INTERESTING, to say the very least.

My brother, Canyon, and I took some update pictures together for my mom for Mother's Day....here are a few.

Yes, my brother is handsome. Yes, my kid is just like me (personality-wise)...and yes, the last picture is a JOKE. Haha...

We have a WILD sense of humor in my family. It's always fun.

Anyway, recipes coming soon (next week)! And, LOTS more of playing the catch-up game.

:)

LOVe xoxo