Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Two Hours!!

Well, there's only two hours left before you're out. I miss you so much. I sit here and I cry. I cry because you will finally be free, but I know this journey through hell has only just begun. I wish you were here to wipe my tears and tell me that everything will be okay. Lately I've been losing hope. I try not to, but it's really just so hard. I just want this all to be over. I want you back in my arms. I want to be a family again.

I have a lot of fears. I fear you not wanting to hold on. I fear you finding someone else because you can actually be with them. I fear so many things and I try to calm my fears, but it's hard.

I've been counting down the hours until you get out. I want you to have your freedom. I was just really looking forward to being able to see you tomorrow and now I don't even have that to look forward. I look forward to Kyler getting to see you and Devon too. It's just not fair. None of this is fair. I wish I could go back in time and figure out some other way to get through to you. I wish it never took any of this.

I just miss you. I'll keep holding on. I'll keep crying, but I'll keep holding on. I love you. I always have and I always will. Always and forever.

Monday, May 30, 2011

I Must Be Pretty Damn Awesome!



I think it's pretty funny how I have "people" obsessing over me and my life. It's kind of flattering, really. I mean, they are taking time out of their day to stalk me online and be sure they're up to do date on everything. I know I certainly have better things to do than obsess over others. I have my children to take care of, a house to keep neat, and work to do. I love my life, my family, and my friends. I don't need anyone or anything else. (-;

Having To Fight To Re-claim My Identity

This woman has seriously got some serious time on her hands. I must be pretty damn awesome for her to go through so much effort to hack as many of my accounts as she can. She hacked into my mommiesalwayswrite@gmail.com, heiress227@yahoo.com, nicole.elaine@ymail.com email accounts. She also hacked into a really old facebook that I haven't used in almost a year. Not only that...she also created not one, but two fake email accounts on my behalf: elkinsnicole@ymail.com and ohio2daynikki@aol.com. This is just really frustrating. I want her out of my life, but she has become so obsessed with it that she keeps hacking into everything of mine. It is my hope that after she reads this blog (because I know she's reading my blogs) that she will quit the crap and move on. I want nothing to do with her and I want her out of my life for once and for all. On Tuesday, a restraining order will ensue. If she continues, I guess 5 years in prison being Big Bertha's pal will make her happy. That 5 years is just for the identity theft. I will then give the IRS and the state of New York all information I have on her so they can do with her as they wish. I am also letting the courts in New York know that she lied about being here with me and inform them that she has an under the table job working for the fudge factory owned by Sandra and Sam with a second location in Galveston. So, if she doesn't want any of this to happen I will expect her to stay out of all of my accounts, delete any and all accounts created on my behalf, never contact me again, and stay out of my life. Tuesday, June 1st, 2011 at 8am EST is your deadline.

Days 16-19: Crying...

It's been a rough past few days. Well, it's actually been bittersweet. The bad thing that needed to happen just continued. You'd be proud of me. However, it seems for every bad thing that happens; there's a good thing to match. Right now it's 2:2.

Your grandma read me your letter last night and I couldn't do anything except cry. I can see this is going to be a long road. I was hoping it was all almost over, but now I'm beginning to see that it's only just begun. It really sucks that nobody wants to see how far you've come or the changes you've made. Your grandma and I have talks about it probably twice a week. It's not fair. I'm really upset that you got such a crappy probation officer, and a woman at that. I don't think you should have gotten a woman. Any woman will be offended by the originating offense. They're not even going to try and see the changes you've made or what you're trying to do to make things better. I wish your probation officer would contact me because then she'd truly see where I'm at on things. Of course my phone number has changed now. I'm going to make an attempt to find out who your probation officer is and see if she'll listen to me. I have a copy of the order of protection I can give to her to prove we can go to counseling together. What she doesn't understand is that we only have so many paid for and if we use them all on individual, we have no shot on getting that restraining order lifted. Getting rid of that is dependent on the counselors at Chrysalis. I'm really, really frustrated about that. I bawled my eyes out to your grandma over the phone about it last night. I don't think I've ever cried to your grandma before, but I just couldn't help it.

Today, the kids and I went and hung out over at your grandma's. I think she misses having people there. She's lonely I think. We bonded. We went through a bunch of photo albums. I had to contain myself. I just wanted to cry out of missing you so much. She gave me one 8x10 from when you were probably around 15 for me to keep. Maybe you were 16. Who knows. You haven't changed much over the years. I could pick out every baby picture that was you. She had them all mixed with you and all of your cousins as well as your brothers. Well, I just went out to get a glass of apple cider only to find the picture on the table (I don't have a picture frame for it yet) and I started crying.

I miss you so much. I was really looking forward to getting to see you the day after you got out in counseling. I've cooked a lot of dinners and put the leftovers into freezer bags for you. I also bought you creamsicle oreos, two big bags of the pretzel m&m's, axe body spray, axe deodorant, and some other stuff. I really hope you don't give up on us. Now that we know it's gonna be even longer before we can even see each other, I'm getting nervous about you giving up. I am praying so hard right now. I pray that God is on our side. I miss you. I miss our family. Please hold on a little longer. I'm doing everything I can right now. Tuesday I'll be making a lot of phone calls and talking to whoever I need to. Just know that the boys and I love you very much. We pray for you and our family to become whole again every night. You are our hero. You are a good man who is trying to make right. You made a big mistake, but you acknowledged it and have come so far since then. Not many other people can say the same. You truly are an amazement to society; not a threat. I just hope that I can show that to your probation officer. Just know that no matter what, I love you. Always and forever.

Sunday, May 29, 2011

What A Piece Of Work!!

So, there's this "thing" I came from. Most would refer to theirs as their mother. However, I don't have one those; not a biological one to speak of anyway. She is a waste of space. I put so much time and energy into trying to believe this woman as well as defending her and trying to have a relationship with her. What a fool I was! Never again! Never, ever again will she have a part in my life.

First, there were all the lies I found out about. Of course she had more lies and excuses to tell in a sad attempt to try and back up her original lies. In the words of someone wonderful, "liar, liar...wish her pants were on fire." That quote will forever make me laugh in my times of anger with this entire situation.

As if all her lies weren't enough, she took it to the extreme when she hacked into several of my accounts and made it (almost) impossible for me to regain access to my accounts again. Luckily, Yahoo and Gmail realized that there was malicious activity from an IP address that had never accessed my accounts before and handled it accordingly. When I got back into my Yahoo account, she did what I had assumed she was trying to do; deleted all of her emails. Unfortunately for her, she isn't the sharpest tool in the shed. She forgot to empty the trash. Idiot! Needless to say, I now have all of those emails backed up as well as the emails saying she changed my information. Aside from that, she took it a step further and created a fake email address on my behalf.

WARNING: If anyone receives an email from the email address elkinsnicole@ymail.com, it is not me!

This woman just can't accept the fact that I do not want her in my life or my children's lives. She can't accept the fact that all of her children whom she abandoned have now disowned her. She is nothing more to me now than a baby pez dispenser. She can make babies, but she sure as hell can't be a mother. She is the female version of a sperm donor.

I have tried to not hate her. I have tried to keep my cool about it all, but I just can't anymore. This woman is garbage, a waste of space. I forgive her for everything she has done because I know she is a lost individual in dire need of some serious help. I feel sorry for her and everyone who comes in contact with her. As you can see, it can take years to finally realize what it is you are dealing with.

I sent her an email letting her know that I knew what she had done. I warned her what I would be forced to do if she did not stop accessing my accounts and didn't remove the email address she created on my behalf. The ball is in her court. If she's smart (or has at least 1/2 a braincell left), she'll do as I asked. Otherwise, authorities will be notified. Also, since she is trying to run from over $4000 in child support; if she doesn't want the state of New York to know her physical address as well as the IRS to re-possess the money she unlawfully received by claiming children she does not have, she will do as I asked.

Simply put, be smart for once in your life. I know it's like asking an infant to move a boulder, but it's worth a shot.

Saturday, May 28, 2011

Clearing The Air

Since the start of my blogging, I have made some posts that I am not too proud of. Some things needed to be said, others didn't. I may or may not be removing or editing some posts given my recent knowledge. Regardless, this is my public apology to all of those I may have hurt. You know who you are. Here's to clearing the air and a fresh start. Cheers!

Thursday, May 26, 2011

So Here's A Question For My Geography Friends

Is Ohio considered to be a part of the mid-west or the northeast? I lived most of my life in CT, which is most definitely northeast. I am new to Ohio as I have only been living here for about seven months now. I'm just wondering what Ohio is classified as. I don't want to say I am still a northeastern girl if that's not true, but I also don't want to say I live in the mid-west if I'm wrong. In my defense, geography was never my subject. Heck, I can't even read a map to save my life!

For The Love of Fiji

Anyone who knows me knows how much I don't really like water. It's just blah. Well, with my new diet soda is out of the question. I'm basically on a combination diet of only taking in 1300 calories a day and the Special K diet. Well, with my new diet I knew I had to start drinking water. There was just no way I would drink tap water. You never know what's in the city water. So, I started buying cases of Aquafina bottled water. Then I decided to buy two bottles of Fiji. Oh my goodness! The water is amazing. Aquafina isn't bad, but Fiji is just so pure tasting. The only downside to Fiji is the price. However, with all of my couponing; I can apply some of my money saved to buy some Fiji. I'll still buy Aquafina, but also buy a little of Fiji too for a special treat. Fiji is my new soda!

Day 11-15: So Much Has Happened

So, I've started spacing out blogging and posting on Facebook. It's been unintentional, but a lot has been going on. All I can really say right now was so many people over the course of my life were right. DB was right. My ex-husband was right. Many of my friends were right. Everyone predicted it. Yes, the final letdown from my biological mother happened. It's been a harsh reality for me. Since it all happened she has been trying to get her last stab in, but I won't allow her to hurt me anymore. She has hurt me for almost twenty-six years. I can't let her hurt me anymore. She is no mother; not to me...and now not to my brothers either. She was more of a mother to them, though. She was there for them and supported them until she abandoned them a year ago. She never supported me or anything. Hell, she flat out admitted that she only came to see me to make me happy. She apparently didn't care one way or another if she saw me. I honestly believe that I was the child she never wanted.

She tried throwing it in my face that I have two kids who are biologically from different fathers. Big freakin' deal! She has four kids from two different biological fathers, one of which she had her parental rights revoked from...that one being me. She has since abandoned all of us. She's abandoned me more times than I can count and she has now abandoned my brothers a year ago. She flat out says she doesn't care about them. She says she won't pay child support because they won't talk to her and then she wonders why they won't talk to her. She says I'm a waste of space, but she's a disgrace to mothers. As a mother, I surely don't want to be associated with someone like that. She is no kind of mother if you ask me.

I really wish DB were here. While I know I am doing the right thing by removing her from my life, it is still hard. I was just tired of the hurt and her lies. I've always felt abandoned by her. Someone or something else was always more important than me. However, I still kept her in my life and gave her chance after chance. DB has heard some of the stories because even though I was in contact with him, I thought it was important for him to know everything I had gone through. However, he doesn't know everything posted in my extremely long blog about it all. I think he will be shocked, really upset with her, and relieved. He'll be relieved because I am finally doing what is right for me; being rid of her. He has been telling me for a long time now that I'd be better off without her. He was right and I knew he was right, but I guess it was just something I had to come to terms with on my own.

So, I am really missing DB right now. I wish he were here to hold me and tell me that I'm doing the right thing. I wish he could wipe my tears when I cry. We have our first couple's counseling on June 1st. I feel like it's going to be written all over my face that something really bad happened while he was gone. I really don't want him to worry, but I know he will. I guess that's what happens when someone truly loves you.

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Outfits To Ease His Mind

I am the type of person who likes to give DB something to look at after he's had a long day. I've always been one for the outfits. They make me feel pretty I guess you could say. Since having Lil Bean, however, I am going be more into the ones that cover my stomach until I can get it toned. Luckily, I have found a great website for some really nice outfits. They have a really good selection on corsets, which I love. The website is called EdenFantasys. Be sure to check them out, they have such an assortment of things. I'm sure you'll find something you will like.

Sex toys - EdenFantasys adult toys store

Goodbye To You





I have no idea where to even begin. I am an emotional wreck. This is time number what that you've crushed my whole world? I stopped keeping track I guess over the years. Do you know what really sucks? Knowing I allowed you to play me like a fiddle for almost 26 years now! You played on my heart, emotions, and faith. I believed you. I put aside everything I had ever been told because of how bad I truly wanted a relationship with you. None of that mattered to you. All that has ever mattered to you is you. I was always a method of convenience to you. If it fit within your agenda, including your ulterior agenda, then and only then would you have a part of my life. Did you ever stop to think about how your actions would affect me or any of your children? Or how about anyone that ever cared about you? My question to you, was it really worth it? Was it worth abandoning each and every one of your children for your own selfishness? 


I'm stuck. I don't even know where to go from here. There is so much I want to say...


I have come to the conclusion that I will never know the truth about anything when it comes to you. You're a habitual liar. I honestly don't think you can help it. I think it is a mental condition and for that I truly feel sorry for you. Maybe one day you will get the psychological help you need, but I doubt if I will be around to witness it. I am wiping my hands of you. You are toxic and you are definitely not the type of person I want around my children. I tried so hard to give you the opportunity to redeem yourself for not being around much when I was child by being a grandparent to my children. You made promises and never followed through. You promised to come visit when Lil Bean was born. Did it ever happen? No! Did you lie to the courts telling them that you were going to be here for my blood transfusion and c-section just so you didn't have to attend that day, which was conveniently scheduled on the same day as my transfusion and c-section? YES! YES! YES! Do you have any idea how much that hurt me? I wanted you to be there so badly and you told me you didn't have the money, which was fine. However, you then had the audacity to tell me the day after telling me you wouldn't be coming that you used my c-section and transfusion to lie to the courts in telling them you would be here. Stab me right through my heart why don't you?! At the time I thought I would be completely alone during my c-section. I got extremely lucky and wasn't, but as far as I knew and as far as I had told you; I thought I was going to be alone. You were hellbent on the hospital giving you information even though it's against the new privacy acts. I'm sorry, but being so hellbent on getting information you should have made a way to be there instead of lying about being with me!


Do you know what is truly sad? I was young, probably between the ages of 6 and 10. I would take pictures of you and rip them up into little pieces. Then, I would dig a hole in the dirt under the trees. You know, the trees with the open space up on the hill to the left of the garden and rocks? I would bury your pictures there and have a "funeral" for you. I was so young and that's how I felt. You weren't there, so as a young child you were dead to me. How does that make you feel? Do you want to know how it would make me feel as a parent if I knew my child had done that? Like a failure! You failed me. You didn't have me and months and years would go by without a word from you. Don't give me your bullshit that the Elkins kept you from me. If they did that, it was for my own good. However, if you put in an effort to change and proved you had changed then that wouldn't have happened; if it even happened. Regardless, my point is if there's a will then there's a way. You just gave up. You didn't try. I felt abandoned by you. So, I held funerals for you whenever I would think about it and get upset. I was in counseling at a very young age because of you. I remember going to see some woman with my grandmother and being young. I talked about you. I also remember it being during my fascination with rocks because there was an awesome rock place near where the counselor was that my grandmother took me to once after one of my sessions.


Now, there's something else I also remember. I have never brought this up to you because of how much I wanted a relationship with you. I was probably around the age of 8. You had driven to come and see me. I remember we went to Highland Elementary School so I could play on the swirly slide. Well, in the passenger side door was a mirror. Now, this was 17 years ago. So, my memory is a little rusty. I am sitting here going back in time using my memory to try and remember the details exactly. I believe there was stuff on the mirror. However, there may not have been. Regardless, I had asked my grandparents about it that night at dinner after you had left. They told me flat out that you were or used to be a cocaine addict and that was what the mirror was from. Seriously? You couldn't put an addiction aside for the few hours you got to come and see me? Was it really any wonder as to why we had to beg and plead with my grandparents for us to be able to leave the house alone? I'm sure you'll deny this completely. Due to my memory not being 100% on this and the fact that I never know who to believe between you and the Elkins; I'll never know the 100% truth. However, given recent findings I would have to say that I now believe at least 80% of what I was told growing up.


When it comes to you and my father, there are a lot of questions I have had. I always wondered why my father hated you so much. I know what he told me. He told me the basics; you were a habitual liar, cheater, and thief. Now, I know my father was an alcoholic and did his wrongdoings as well. You claim he abused you. I can half see this as true, but with some modifications. Did you ever taunt him or abuse him? Here's how I see it... I think maybe when my dad got drunk that maybe he did get physical with you. However, I also believe there were times that you got physical with him or got in his face to where he had no choice. I also believe that maybe there were times you were out of control and my dad tried to restrain you. You said he tried to kill you. That I don't believe. If he tried to kill you, why didn't you call the authorities? When I thought DB was going to kill me, what did I do? As soon as he was off of me, I locked myself in the bathroom and called the cops. Attempted murder is a crime and I am pretty sure that even in my father's drunken rages, he knew better. If I'm wrong here, I'm wrong. I was too young to know anything. These are just my opinions on the matter here. You claim you never cheated on my father. You claim it was the other way around. I'm sorry, but I have to call your bluff here. I was told entirely too many detailed stories to believe they were all lies. When my father cleaned out the apartment you two shared after your split, he said he found over 100 business cards. I half believe it. I'm sure he exaggerated with 100, but I'm sure he found a few. My father also told me that he came home many times to find you in bed with countless different men. You claim my father was the cheater. I am sure that it is possible that my dad cheated. However, was it before or after he caught you? I'm not really sure. There are other things I was told that have nothing to do with you that put me in the middle of the road this. I think it's 50/50 on who cheated first and who was trying to get back at who. I will say that it is probable that you both cheated and 100% that you cheated given my most recent knowledge. Now back to him supposedly trying to kill you. Do you remember back when I was in the Children's Center and we had a visit with my DCF worker before I had a family session with my father and his wife? If you recall, we got back to the Children's Center at the same time my dad and his wife pulled up. You were really friendly towards him. I knew it would end badly, so I jetted. I remember being scared. It was a fright flight, so I'm not really sure where I went. I think I went into Lynch Cottage, but I'm not sure where. Anyway, why would you be so friendly towards a man who supposedly abused you and tried to kill you? Better question, why would you give up your child to the family of the person who supposedly did so much harm to you? You claim it's because his family had money. There are public defenders and pro bono lawyers for a reason! Is it possible that the real reason you gave me up to them without a fight is because you knew you would not be a good mother? If that's the case, why did you go on to have three more children after me? 


Do you know that my father used to absolutely despise women coloring their hair? Do you know how long it took for him to be comfortable with his new wife coloring her hair? Do you know why women coloring their hair affected him so much? Let me tell you why... My father correlates women coloring their hair with cheating. Why? Well, he said every time you colored your hair he knew you had another guy in your life. So, of course that would affect him. I remember him freaking out when I put sun-in in my hair when I was 10. I later found out why. He has since overcome this fear of his.


When I was 11, you walked out of my life for what I thought would be forever. You didn't call, write, or come see me. You had gone months and a couple years without coming to see me before. However, it always affected me. You were upset that my grandparents had adopted me. However, you never said anything to them about you getting on your feet to take me. Maybe had you done that, things would have been different. Regardless, you punished me for them adopting me. What sense does that make? Let's punish a child for adult's actions. Yeah, that sounds like a sound decision. Do you have any idea what this did to me? This is what began my downward spiral. I started acting out and doing things I don't think I would have done had you not walked out on me again. I remember getting so mad that I got my purple bike and put it in the middle of the driveway and I told my grandparents I was running away to find you. They tested me. They told me to go ahead and that they were sure I'd be better off. I got on my bike and sat in the driveway while I thought as they went inside. I thought about all the times you weren't there for me. I thought about all the times you had disappeared. I thought about how I really didn't know you at all. I became fearful and put my bike back in the garage and went up to bed. I remember you calling one time on Christmas and the Elkins not letting you talk to me. You had destroyed me, so can you really blame them? I had picked up the phone and heard. I was really upset that they wouldn't let you talk to me, but as a parent now I can see why they didn't. They didn't want to give me the false hope that you would be back in my life with how many times you had walked out on me. So, I can now see that they did the right thing.


When I was 15 years old, I took it upon myself to try and find you. I finally found you through Yahoo Member Profiles. At the time, there was a section that asked for your favorite quote. Do you remember what yours was? I do! I mean, how could I forget? Your favorite quote was "sex, sex, and more sex." Classy! That proved a lot that I was told growing up, but I shoved it to the back of my mind because I truly wanted a relationship with you. So, I finally formed a relationship with you and you were finally trying to be there for me. The only time I got to see you was when I was in the hospital or I ran away, but I was happy to see you as well as my brothers. You were trying to prove yourself to me and I was beginning to put faith in you. I now believe this was all a part of your plan. You wanted me on your side. You wanted me to always believe you and put faith in you. I did for a long time until now.


Now let's do a flash-forward to last year. Last year you left my stepfather. There are a million and one different stories as to why. You say it's because he abused you. He says it's because you were cheating on him with a guy at work. However, the proof in the pudding says you left him because you are greedy. You left him because he was saving up money to give a better life to you and the boys. You wanted that money for some unknown reason. You were unappreciative of what he was trying to do. So, instead of being patient for that better life, you moved yourself into a single room to struggle financially. Not only that, my stepfather didn't abuse you. I know you two had your altercations, but more often than not; they were mutual. You burned him with cigarettes, gave him black eyes, and broke his wrist. The time you claim he "threw" a table at you; he wiped the table clean and knocked everything to your feet after you hit him in the head with a zippo lighter. So, I think you were far from abused. I think you wanted people to feel sorry for you, so you said you were abused when in reality you were both equally guilty. Now getting back to you cheating on him. You flat out lied to me when you denied ever cheating on him. You admitted everything to everyone else and I saw it with my own two eyes. Why did you lie to me? Eventually, you should have known I would have found out the truth. Keep in mind, I knew the truth without seeing it. Your past has proven to repeat itself over and over again. I know you were cheating on him for quite a while and have cheated on him several times in the past. You replied to and posted Craigslist ads. You sent pictures to various guys. Eight days before you went down to Texas to be with Mr. Wonderful you were sending pictures to a guy in New York. Tell me I'm wrong. Tell me I'm lying. I'll show you the proof in black and white. I am not saying my stepfather was a perfect guy. We all know he was far from it. However, you are no saint yourself. 


Now, you claim to be all torn up that my brothers won't talk to you. Do you blame them? You cheated on their father however many times, but they only know of once. Then you abandoned them. You couldn't even stay in the same state to see them or fight for them. Maybe if you put half as much effort into being a good parent as you do looking for a good lay, then you might be a halfway decent parent. Also, you might have all of your kids talking to you. Instead, you were more concerned with finding the next man to take care of you. I feel sorry for your boyfriend to an extent. I don't think he really knows anything about you. All he knows is he thinks it was puppy love back when you were a teen. He has no idea what you became after that. However, with my recent findings on him; I question whether or not he would care. Are you aware that your Mr. Wonderful is on a sex on the side site? He logged in one day ago, requested another girl to email him about 2-3 weeks ago and added 5 new pictures 3-4 months ago. This is who you think is Mr. Wonderful? I think you have a misguided view on wonderful. Disgusting, yes. Wonderful, no. However, I think you two are perfect for each other. You're like two peas in a pod. He didn't fight for his son and you haven't fought for any of your children. It's a match made in Heaven.


Since you left my stepfather, you have tried to make it so the only person I talk to is you. You didn't want me to talk to my cousin, my aunt, my stepfather, or my brothers. You tried to make each and every one of them out to be the devil. I know the truth now. The only devil in this situation is you. It was wrong for you to try and control who I talk to. The truth is, you didn't want me to talk to B (my cousin) because you feared her telling me the truth. You knew everything you had told her and you wanted to make her out to be a terrible person, a liar, and more just so I wouldn't believe anything she said. Well, you failed when the writing was on the wall. I know everything you told her and I will get to that here in a bit. You didn't want me to talk to L (my aunt) because you knew that you were in the wrong, but you still wanted me to stand by you. You were wrong for trash talking B and allowing your boyfriend who doesn't even know her to do the same. B made a big mistake in trusting you. The things she confided in you with you had no right to go blasting to the world, especially knowing everything she knew and witnessed. You didn't want me talking to my stepfather because you had left him. Okay, that I can half understand. My brothers? You didn't want me to talk to them because they wouldn't talk to you. Regardless, they are still my brothers. When I asked you about if/when I get married if you would be able to be cordial with B, you said you wouldn't even be able to be in the same room as her. How old are you? 12? My wedding day would be my day. You should be able to be around whoever without an issue because you're more mature than that and don't want to ruin my day. I guess that's the difference between class and trash! B has class. She told me she just wouldn't talk to you, but would not cause an issue whatsoever. However, now none of this is an issue. I am ruling you out of my life and I will invite whoever I wish when I get married. Speaking of getting married, though. Have you not learned anything from your last two marriages? You're not the marrying kind. You are incapable of being faithful and holding down a marriage. So, if I were you (thank God I'm not) I would not waste time or energy on getting married again.


So, now let's get to the number of things you have said about me as your daughter to a number of people. Well, first you were extremely upset that I got back together with DB back in September of 2010. Why? Were you upset that you wouldn't be able to control me the way you wanted to if I wouldn't be moving down there? Were you jealous that I have a solid relationship built on love, which is why we have made it through so much. You know it's like him and I are already married. I'm almost certain your vows meant nothing to you both times, but you know that whole for better or for worse thing? Well, that's DB and I. We have stuck it out for better or for worse. We believe in each other and our relationship. This is called true love, something you wouldn't know anything about. So, I'm sorry you're so jealous and upset that I'm happy. You'll get over it. Now the next thing I know you said doesn't even upset me. It actually makes me laugh my @$$ off! You said you felt bad for Sweet Pea and the child I was carrying being Lil Bean. You claimed I was a bad parent. HA!!!! You would know all about parenting, wouldn't you. I mean, you only walked out on all four of your kids. Never in my wildest dreams would I EVER walk out on my children. I know damn well that I am an outstanding parent. I do not raise my voice, nor do I lay a finger on any of my children. Of course, you wouldn't know any of this seeing as how you haven't seen Sweet Pea since he was 3 months old. Right now I am basically a single parent. I do it all on my own for a newborn and a toddler. I stay up until 4am or later each day working my @$$ off to provide for my children. Have I run into a financial rut? Sure, but I went from solely depending on DB's paycheck to doing it on my own literally overnight. However, I have since picked myself back up from that financial rut now. I am up at 8am to get ready for the day and get up with the kids, feed them breakfast, go to the park, and go about our daily activities. During nap time after lunch, I work more. I let Sweet Pea have his free time before dinner. After dinner they both get a bath and we go into the bedtime routine. By 8pm they are both in bed and I can begin working. So, my days are dedicated to my children and I work 8-10 hours to be sure they have everything they need. So, please tell me how I am a bad mother and also enlighten me as to how you would know! 


So, I'm sure you want to hear about all the grand things you have done for me and how I should be oh so grateful. Well, there really isn't much. You bought my dolls from Rite Aid, visited me in the hospital, and picked me up when I ran away. Oh, you want something big that I have to thank you for? Well, that's easy! Well, actually there are two things. Thank you for giving me life. I am grateful for every day I am here. My life may not have been easy, but it has made me one tough cookie. Next, I want to thank you for showing me how NOT to be. I'm a million times more of a mother to my children than you ever were or will be and because of you, I know exactly how to be a mother to my children; I just have to be the exact opposite of you. You also showed me how not to be in a relationship and as a respectable member of society. So, thank you for that.


Tonight I watched American Idol and Lauren Alaina's final performance was what her first single will be if she wins. Well, I balled my eyes out. Read the lyrics below and watch the video.


People always say
I have a laugh like my mother does
Guess that makes sense
She taught me how to smile when things get rough
I've got her spirit, she's always got my back
When I look at her I think I want to be just like that

When I love I give it all I've got
Like my mother does
When I'm scared I bow my head and pray
Like my mother does

She's a rock, she is grace
She's an angel, she's my heart and soul
She does it all

When I love, I give it all I've got
Like my mother does
When I'm scared I bow my head and pray
Like my mother does

When I'm weak and unpretty
I know I'm beautiful and strong
Because I see myself
Like my mother does




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If you read the lyrics, you will notice the line: "When I look at her I think I want to be just like that." You are NOTHING that I want to be. How sad is that? I can't relate to any of these mother/daughter songs. I don't want to be like you. Everything you are is nothing that I am. I only look like you and I thank God that I wasn't raised by you. Who knows what kind of things I would have been subjected to by you.


In closing, I will tell you that I forgive you for all of the hurt you have put me through. I will never forget any of it, though. I forgive you because you are a very lost soul and if I don't forgive you, why should I be forgiven? So, I forgive you. I feel very sorry for you. I don't hate you. I'm not sure how I feel about you. I don't hate you, though. Hate is a very strong word. Am I angry? You bet your last penny I am! Am I hurt? You better believe it! So, I will just pray for you. I will pray real prayers, but for now I have spent the last four hours in tears as I have written this. So, I'm going to post one last video to make me feel better.

Saturday, May 21, 2011

For The Love Of Nani

Many of my readers may recall a post I made about a girl who was dishonestly ridiculed by a billboard that was said to be a pro-life billboard. However, it was a personal attack against her by her ex-boyfriend who accuses her of having an abortion even though he has clearly stated in the past that he does not know what happened to the pregnancy. Nani unfortunately miscarried. Well, this billboard has created quite a stir in the Alamogordo, New Mexico community. As if Nani didn't need support when she suffered the loss of her baby, she now needs support more than ever with this personal attack against her.

In supporting Nani, a website has been made. This website is called For the Love of Nani. I am unsure who is behind the website, but it is someone who supports and loves Nani. That much is apparent. The website is looking for support and love for Nani in the form of artwork, poetry, among other forms. If it's original and supportive, it is welcome. There is also a section for messages you can leave to show Nani support. The website even has a forum.

I think this website is great. You don't have to know Nani. You can support the message. Maybe you suffered a miscarriage. Maybe you have been ridiculed. If you can identify with Nani or just want to show her some support, please check out For the Love of Nani.

We All Bleed Red



So, tonight I was listening to music on my TV as I worked. Well, this one song came on that I had never heard before called Bleed Red by Ronnie Dunn. The song really hit home for me. The main message was that we're all the same in the sense that we all bleed red.

This song really hit home for me as I listened to every word.

"Let's say we're sorry before it's too late
Give forgiveness a chance
Turn anger into water
Let it slip through our hands."

Listening to that first verse just brought out a lot of emotions for me. I want to apologize to the family that raised me for all the hell I put them through. I'd like to ask for their forgiveness. However, I'd like for them to apologize to so I can forgive them. It's a hard thing for anyone to understand, but gaining their forgiveness and having them admit what they did wrong and apologizing to me for it would mean so much to me. I hold a lot of anger inside for things that happened over the years and for them completely turning their backs on me. I think that this would help get rid of that anger. Of course, I know it would never happen. Thinking about it is just wishful thinking I guess. I just miss having a family. I have two sons who won't really have much of an extended family because my family turned their back on me and have never given me another opportunity and probably never will. They took my father and his wife at their word and never stopped to think about the fact that there are three sides to every story; their side, my side, and the truth. I may never fully forgive my father, but I could at least try. I wish he would see what he has done to me. I wish a lot of things that will never happen.

"We all bleed red, we all taste rain
We all fall down, lose our way
We all say words we regret
We all cry tears, we all bleed red."

I lost my way a lot during my life. I don't think I'm the only one, and I also think that anyone else who lived the life I did would have done the same. Yes, I was spoiled by my grandparents growing up. Dig deeper than that. I was lied to and disowned. How would any child feel? I rebelled, I acted out. I fell down and lost my way. I was judged for it and disowned and ridiculed. I remember many words from my father that still ring in the back of my mind. Does he regret saying any of those words? Was he influenced or is this who he really is?

"Sometimes we're strong, sometimes we're weak
Sometimes we're hurt, and it cuts deep
We live this life breath to breath
We're all the same, we all bleed red."

There are days I feel strong and other days I feel weak. There are days I don't let anything get to me and then there's other days I just have to find the time to cry out how I'm feeling. I was hurt a lot by my own flesh and blood over and over again as I grew up. It wasn't just my father, though. It hurts when I think about it. I could never treat my children the same way I was treated. I vowed to myself I would never be like that.

Friday, May 20, 2011

Day 9 & 10: Trying and Emotional

Yesterday I didn't have time to blog. I am trying to make ends meet, so I've been working. Yesterday was an okay day, but filled with a lot of work. Sometimes work stresses me out when there are unorganized employers, but in the end I know it is worth it. DB is counting on me to take his place while he can't. Sweet Pea and Lil' Bean are depending on my ability to support them. I do what I can. I won't let them go without.

Today was a really hard day for me. I've been really emotional and struggling with the kids. It seemed like they were both crying at the same time all day. I took them to Walmart and Lil' Bean cried the entire way home. I couldn't keep Sweet Pea off the stairs while I unloaded everything and brought the stroller in. Today really took a lot out of me. I miss DB a lot and I really wish the courts would change things. I am hoping our first session together at Chrysalis will change things. I have no help. I don't know anyone here. I just want my life back. I want my family that I created back. That family includes myself, DB, and both boys. I want us all together again. I want to feel whole again.

Thursday, May 19, 2011

Loving These Giveaways

So, I've never been a naturally lucky person. I was never given an easy hand in life. I've never even won $1 from a scratch off. Well, I was recently introduced to giveaways (a little while before I began blogging). I have entered quite a few and I have actually won some things. To date, I have won organic lubricant, a cubbie cup, paint, and now a loving naturals gift set. I'm pretty excited. Now if I could only win an iPad or a computer or something cool like that! I am the most excited about the cubbie cup. My Sweet Pea just makes a mess of all of his snacks. So, I'm really looking forward to utilizing the cubbie cup. Have you ever entered a giveaway? What are some things you have won?

Really Getting Serious About Saving

So, I have hopped on the frugal bandwagon! I have been couponing like crazy, watching Extreme Couponing religiously, and I joined a couponing forum. I am actually pretty psyched about my new way of life. Last night I used coupons for my first time! My price before coupons was $52.89 and after coupons my total was $38.55. I saved a total of $14.34. I know people save a lot more, but this was my first time. I will get there. I am really planning on buckling down. As I am familiarizing myself with this new lifestyle, expect some frugalista posts because I am new frugalista. Welcome me to the dark side my fellow frugalistas!

Day 1: Heartbroken

Well, today was court and the most unfortunate thing happened; he went back to jail...for 20 days. I'm sure everyone thinks that's not so bad, but it is. They also would not remove the protective order, they want supervised visitation between DB and Sweet Pea, DB has to partake in many different programs, and he will be on intense supervised visitation for 3 years. The only way the protective order will get lifted is if our counselor/counselors at Chrysalis say they believe we should be in contact. I have my first individual appointment on Tuesday. DB has had two sessions already. I am hoping I can get in a couple sessions while he is in jail so that we can come together and begin our couples counseling as soon as he's out. That is the only way I'll be able to see him. I can't have him risk seeing me any other way until it's approved with 18 months of prison time hanging over his head.

I miss him. I always miss him. I just want our family back. I wish the courts could see how much I struggle without him. I know what he did was wrong and I know it can't be overlooked. However, he has come so far. He is attending Batterers Intervention, AA twice a week, and church 5 hours a week. He also started attending Fathertime with Kyler and plans on either picking that back up or going to a different parenting class when he gets out. He has not taken a sip of alcohol since the night that caused all of this. He is also doing his individual counseling. He is doing so much. He is doing everything he can to change. I am proud of him.

I struggle. I struggle emotionally and financially. DB was the moneymaker and I have been struggling ever since I had to take over. I have had to get some serious assistance and even that hasn't been enough. I was hoping after all of this he'd be able to come back home and we'd be able to pay together.

Today was heartbreaking for so many different reasons. When we were in the courtroom I spoke, his grandmother spoke, his lawyer spoke, and DB spoke. It almost sounded promising. Then the DA spoke. That killed it all. He felt the need to bring up things we all already knew. Then the judge started talking. She was talking all positive about DB, but then went downhill. She starts talking about programs and probation. Then a deputy came in and stood in the corner. At that moment I knew exactly what would be next. He got sentenced to 20 days in jail and the protective order would not be lifted. "20 days to be served immediately." The deputy went over to DB and I couldn't handle it. I stormed out of the courtroom in tears.

A friend of mine had the kids outside of the courtroom. I grabbed Sweet Pea and held him so tight and cried. Then DB came out. I saw him out of the corner of my eye. It was a blur. I couldn't even look at him. It was too hard. It was even harder because Sweet Pea was there. I tried not to let him see, but I don't know how well I accomplished that as I was in tears.

I just hope he knows I love him. I miss him. I have a feeling this will set Sweet Pea backwards...again. Thank you stupid courts. I just want my house to be a home again. I want our family back. Right now I just pray he's okay.

Serious About Signing

So, I have decided to get serious about sign language. I'm getting serious about a lot lately, huh? Coupons, giveaways, sign language. Well, I really want to learn sign language. I have a couple of different reasons as to why. First, one of my really close friends is deaf and I would like to be able to communicate with her easier in person. Second, I want to teach the kids sign language. It would be their first mode of communication, especially for Lil' Bean. Everyone says the sooner the better. So, I'll be starting a little late with Sweet Pea. I still think he will benefit from it. He's not saying a whole lot yet, so this could help us communicate. I also just think it would be great for them to know.

Now, I know this won't be an easy task. It's just like learning another foreign language. The only difference is this is completely with your hands. Some people may catch on quicker than others, but simple things can be learned rather quickly. I already know a few things. I know: cookie, toilet, yes, no, dolphin, baby, eat, up, down, please, thank you, love, A, E, N, M, and O.

I've been a little stressed out about how I'm going to be able to learn sign language. I surely don't have the money to pay for a tutor or anything. Well, thanks to the world wide web there are some great websites out there. One website I found that I really like is Signing Savvy. I really like this website because you can type in any word or phrase and it will show you how to sign that word or phrase. You can also go through signs by categories such as baby signs, numbers, colors, fingerspelling, animals, and more. Another great link is ASL University. You can access their self-study materials for free or you can choose to attend their courses for a fee.

With those links, I really think I can learn sign language. I may not become fluent any day soon. However, I can learn enough to begin working with the kids relatively quickly. To become fully fluent, it would probably take the average adult anywhere from 6 months to a year or more. If you're surrounded by the deaf culture, then you will probably learn a lot quicker. Unfortunately, I'm not. So, it will take me some time. I think it's worth it, though.

When it comes to signing with the kids, I also found three really great links to help. The first is Signing With Your Baby. I really like that website because it really motivates you. They even have baby signing videos on YouTube. You can also connect with them through Facebook. They're really helpful in telling you how to get started and letting you know what to expect from your child. They have a baby signing dictionary on their site as well as a ton of other links and resources. Aside from all of the information on their site, they also have a store on Amazon. Their store offers books, dvd's, flashcards, and more to help teach your baby sign language. The second helpful link I found is My Baby Can Talk. This website shows you all the baby signs for specific letters. You just select the letter and it will generate a list of words. Then you click on the word you want to learn and it will show you a short video clip on how to sign the word in sign language. The last helpful link I have found is Baby Sign Language. This website is jam packed with information. It has a dictionary, a wall chart, flashcards, and more. You can also connect with them on Facebook.

I'm actually pretty excited to start on this venture. I think it will be good for both me and the kids. I think maybe I'll set aside a little bit of time each week to study myself and then work with them. Have you ever considered learning sign language or teaching your kids? Want to join in on this venture with me?

Check out this pretty awesome video for the deaf. I really like the message in it. Seeing the quotes in the beginning are really upsetting, though. I can't believe how the deaf are ridiculed for something that isn't their fault.

Day 8: Wishing I Could Talk To Him

My nights are getting lonelier and lonelier. I just wish I could talk to him. Just hearing his voice would make me feel a little better. I know we're almost halfway there, but that's only halfway to him getting out. There is no time on the other stuff. I just want to hear his voice. I want him to tell me he's okay, not someone else. I want him to tell me he loves me and misses me, not someone else. I try so hard to fight my tears, but I can't. Of course, American Idol didn't help tonight. Scotty McCreery sang Amazed by Lonestar. When DB was in Iraq they had a karaoke thing and that's what he sang. He had it recorded and everything. So, hearing that song right now just made me ball. I'll admit I'm super emotional tonight. I can't help it. I just miss him so much. I look down at my hand and see his class ring and wish he were here to put it on me. I just miss him a lot. I wish he were here to tell me how everything is going to be okay and how we're going to get through this. He's been so confident through all of this. I'm the one who seems to be falling apart at the seams. Ugh! Another day down.

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

What Grinds My Gears: People Who Just Show Up

What really grinds my gears are people who just show up at  my house without even calling! This is probably one of my biggest pet peeves. I have a phone, two of them actually, for a reason. Call before coming over. You never know what I'm doing or if I even want company. This has been happening more and more lately. There are days I just want a peaceful day at home without anyone coming over. It irritates me even more when you knock like you're the cops. Hello?! Do you not recall the fact that I have two kids who could possibly be napping? Once you knock like that they're not napping anymore thank you very much. So the moral of this story is call me before you come over because if I'm not expecting you, I just might ignore the fact that you're knocking!

Feeding A Picky, Stubborn Toddler

I am at a loss as far as feeding Sweet Pea goes and I have been for a while now. First, he is an extremely picky eater. He won't eat ketchup or barbecue sauce. He won't eat many meats. What kid won't eat hot dogs? Mine! The only meats he will eat are chicken nuggets and corndogs. Yes, you read correctly. He won't eat hot dogs, but he loves corn dogs. He will drink until the cows come home, though. He will drink an entire sippy of juice in five minutes flat if you let him. He would much rather eat snacks than actual meals. He refuses to feed himself using his utensils, but if I try to feed him he will throw a fit. So, it's finger food or nothing. I don't know what to do. I want him to be healthy, but if I can't get him to eat then I am failing. I give him pediasure just to be sure he's getting the nutrients he needs, but I'd rather if I could just get him to eat. Have you ever dealt with anything like this? Any advice?

Crazy Weather

It seems like we get stretches of the same weather. It can't rain for a day, it has to rain for a week. I hate it. We were having some ridiculously hot, sunny days. The kids and I were miserable because of how hot it was. Well, now I miss it. It made me so cheery with the sun shining bright. Yeah, I was hot, but that's what shorts and tank tops are for. I pretty much kept the kids in diapers because I didn't want them to overheat. Sweet Pea was pretty happy about the weather because he got a popsicle to cool him down. He loves popsicles. I won't lie, I like them too. We sit down and eat them together. He makes a mess of his face and clothes every time. So, I've learned that at the very least he has to be shirtless when he eats them. Otherwise it is just a huge mess. What kind of treats do you give your kids on hot days?

He Smiled!

That's right! My Lil' Bean smiled! It was the cutest thing ever. He does it quite a bit now. I love it. It just melts my heart seeing him happy enough to smile. I'm not sure if he knows he's smiling or if he's just exercising his face, but it's cute either way. Sometimes I think he knows he's doing it. He'll do it a lot after I kiss him. I love it. It's like he's saying how happy he is that I kissed him. He loves being loved. I will take all the smiles I can get from him. His smiles makes all my worries go away. Do you feel the same way when your little one smiles? When did your kids smile for the first time?

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Day 7: Worried

Yeah, I'm worried again. I'm not (really) worried about things happening to him right now. The guy from his church calmed me of that. Now I'm worried for when he gets out. His grandma really got me worked up when she came over the other day. She was telling me about how the judge gave him a long list of things he can't do or he goes to prison. So, I'm afraid of him going to prison even though she went light on him with only giving him the twenty days. His grandma also told me that right before we went in the courtroom that his lawyer said he could still go to prison. There's also another guy in the county jail with him who is in for the same thing and his first offense, but got 180 days! So, DB really got lucky. I just get afraid of worse happening later on down the road. So, here's to hoping for the best.

Baby Sign Language

One of my best friends is deaf, so sign language is something her and I discuss quite a bit. She is constantly telling me how great it would be to teach the boys baby sign language. I did it a little bit with Sweet Pea and then stopped. I'm not sure why I stopped. I think life got to hectic at the time. Well, I really want to pick it back up. My biggest fear is that they won't get it and I'll get frustrated. I think I'm going to give it a go anyway. Maybe some words of encouragement will help. Have you taught your kids sign language? How hard was it? How long did it take?

Getting Better With My Diet

I am pretty proud of myself. I feel like I am getting better with my died. Towards the end of the night last night, I wasn't sure if I was going to be able to not go over. Luckily, I managed to end my night at 1225 calories. My maximum is 1310. So, I was definitely pretty proud of myself. I know I will feel really proud of myself when I start seeing results. I am just happy that day two was much more successful than day one and day three is going pretty good too.

Naming Your Children

The other night I was talking to a friend about the names of my kids and how they got their names. I realized that both of my kids had meaningful names. I fought so hard to get my first. I experienced loss before I got him. However, finally I got pregnant with him and gave birth to him on October 22, 2009. Due to my struggles, his name means by the grace of God. Basically meaning by the grace of God I was finally blessed with a child. I had a lot of attachment issues when I was pregnant with my second. So, his name has a lot of meaning. His first name is after my best friend who was killed in 2009's biggest influencers, my other best friend's angel baby, and my paternal grandfather who raised me. His middle name is after the husband of my best friend who was killed. Lil' Bean was basically my baby for my best friend who was killed. The other meanings came with time as I finally settled on a name. I was well over 8 months pregnant before I had settled on a name. Are there meanings behind the names of your children? How long did it take you to decide on a name?

What Would Jesus Say?

So, last night I read something rather...interesting I guess you could say.

"Children born out of wed lock. What would Jesus say?"
This frustrated me. I have two children and no, I am not married. I'm also not perfect. I am, however, human. I make mistakes. Reading that really got to me, though. I fear my Judgement Day. I know I have not lead a perfect life. I know I have made my mistakes. We all make mistakes, right? Some more than others, some bigger than others. I guess I just don't like being looked at as 'that girl.' You know, the one who had not one, but two kids out of wed lock.

If I were to judge, I guess I would say my second child is out of worse circumstances than the first. My first was at least conceived out of a loving relationship, one that will one day end in marriage. My second was just conceived. There was no love. It just was. The after effects were hate, from the CSD. I love both of my kids and I would not trade them in for the world.

I fear everything. I do think about what all I will have to answer for on my Judgement Day. I don't want to go to Hell. I want to go to Heaven. I want DB to go to Heaven too. I want my kids in Heaven. I want everyone I know and love to be in Heaven with me. I want to know them again when I'm there. I know that per the Bible and everything I was taught that you're not even supposed to have sex until you're married. So, obviously having children 'out of wed lock' is wrong. I guess I just want to know how wrong. Am I going to Hell for it? Will I be forgiven for it? Will my children be punished?

Monday, May 16, 2011

Day 6: Loved

Today I feel loved. I got back his class ring. He had given this to me to signify we were together way back in October when I moved out here to be with him and be a family again. Well, when things happened I couldn't have it anymore. I felt naked without it. I love wearing it. No, it's not your fancy ring. It's a class ring, his class ring. It meant a lot to him and so it means a lot to me. As soon as his grandma brought it over, I put it right on. Looking at my hand I can see his class ring and it's as if a part of him is with me even when he's not. It's right next to the Claddagh ring he got me after we started talking again in March I believe. It signifies me being his girlfriend as well as the turning point for change. So, today I feel loved knowing I have that special piece of him again.

Pro Life or Pro Choice

This whole billboard situation that I posted about last night really made me curious to know where people stand on the topic of abortion. I know it is a very sensitive topic. I don't know what I am. I'd like to say I am more pro life because there are options like adoption. My mom kept me even though her relationship with my father was spiraling downhill very quickly. She gave me a chance at life. When she knew I would be better off with my grandparents, she allowed them to take me and raise me.

However, when it comes to situations such as rape, I can understand why people would get an abortion. I can understand not wanting to carry and deliver a child from some a traumatic experience. Still in saying that, I do believe everyone deserves a chance at life. So, I guess I'm more pro life, but I can try to understand the pro choice side of things when it comes to rape.

I do not in any way condone the use of abortion as birth control. When I lived in Alaska, I knew a girl who used abortion as birth control. In the year I talked to her, she had gotten three abortions. They make actual birth control for a reason! I also do not agree with the ability to get an abortion so late in your pregnancy now.

I believe that a child is a blessing, not a choice. The choice was made when you willingly participated in adult activities. However, adoption is always an option. When I got pregnant with Lil' Bean, it was not by DB. DB and I had separated and I got pregnant by someone else. We will refer to that someone else as CSD (cheap sperm donor haha). Well, CSD did not react well when I told him I was pregnant. Before I had found out I was pregnant I had plans on leaving him. So, naturally I found out I was pregnant. I knew I was pregnant. I skipped over the pregnancy test and went right to the doctor only to find out that I was 6 weeks pregnant. I just knew. I had that feeling. After I told him we kind of stopped talking and I just moved out. Then I started getting monetary offers. He wanted to pay me off. He also tried forcing me into an abortion. I flat out refused and told him not to worry because his name would not be associated with the baby. He didn't want to pay child support. I was even harassed by members of his family. His family and his chain of command (he was/is in the army) were helping him to evade his responsibility. I let it go. I saw it as a bad situation to involve a child in. So, I walked away from it all and made the decision that I would be a single mom of two. Two months later that changed when I got back together with DB. I was stupid for ever leaving him in the first place. DB decided he would take on the baby as his own. He said every baby deserves a dad and he wanted to be daddy to both of my children. Sweet Pea is his biologically and Lil' Bean is his in every other way. My pregnancy was very difficult. There were times I didn't know what to think. I had no attachment to my Lil' Bean basically until he was born. Now I can't imagine my life without him. I regret my relationship with CSD, but I do not regret Lil' Bean. I know when Lil' Bean grows up he might have questions and I will deal with them when the time comes.

I know that there are people who are pro choice and I believe everyone has a right to their own opinion. My opinion is my opinion and their opinion is theirs. This is America and we have the beauty of freedom of speech. Like I said, I can understand pro choice on some levels. So, I'm not all gung ho about being pro life. It's just what I believe for myself. I am just not one to push my beliefs on someone else. However, people and their opinions and reasonings do interest me. So, are you pro life or pro choice?

What's A Good Number?

So, I work from home as an online contractor. I also pick up other various moneymaking gigs as they come my way. As a whole, I work from home. Why? Because I enjoy and love my children. I don't want them to have to go to daycare where they can get sick just walking in the door. I enjoy spending my time with them at home. We play, giggle, and have a good time.

Well, I sit here and wonder what is a good number to make on a monthly, or even yearly, basis for a household of two boys under the age of two? Right now I only push myself to make enough to get by. I think I should work more and strive to make a certain number each week, month, and year. However, I'm just not sure what those numbers should be. I sit here and think about numbers wondering if I'm shooting too high or too low.

My main source of income is writing. I know how much I can make an hour and although working 8 hours a day would be ideal, it's not always possible. I have two main projects and if I take three days each week to work on my smaller project and the other four to work on my larger project, I think I make more than enough. If I can buckle down and work 30 hours over the course of 3 days on the smaller project and 32 hours over the course of 4 days on the larger project I can make a good amount of money. My bills will always be paid, things I want to do for the kids and DB will be taken care of, and I can work on paying off some debt.

Where do I fail the most? I stay logged in on Facebook and Yahoo while I'm working and get distracted. I think I need to really start treating this like a real job. No social networking, messengers, or cell phone while I work. I think I need to actually set a schedule. On the days I do the smaller job, I need to work longer; 10 hours. I will still be tending to the kids and I'd like to break it up. The kids generally don't wake up until 10am. So, I think I will start working at 7am each morning and work until noon. That gives me 3 hours I can work straight through. Naptime happens at 1pm, so I will probably take a nap with them sticking to this schedule. Then I'll pick working back up from 6pm-11pm. The kids are in bed at 8pm usually, so that gives me another 3 hours I can work straight through. On the days I work on my larger job, I only need 8 hours. So, I think I'll from 8am-noon and 6pm-10pm.

I think I like the idea of having a schedule. This schedule will go into effect tomorrow. I need to get a good night's sleep. If I can stick to this, which I hope I can, then things can really change for my family. I am glad I have finally come up with a plan. Being a single SAHM can be challenging, especially when I work from home. I think breaking it up and having half of my work time happen when the kids are sleeping will really be beneficial. I can spend a good amount of time with them when I'm not working. Do you work from home? What do you do? How have you learned to manage your time effectively?

Happy Birthday...

Today is my biological father's birthday. I really don't have anything good to say about him. I don't really know him. All I do know is that he and his wife ruined my life. They also turned everyone against me out of fear that I would make them look bad. Lucky for them, I don't have time to do so. I just don't have the desire or the energy. I have given them so many chances to change and they just never will. I gave up on my dad and his wife. All I will ever thank my father for is helping to bring me into this world and making sure his parents provided for me growing up. I have learned how not to be from his mistakes. I have also learned how to truly love a child, even if they they are conceived in unplanned situations. Lil' Bean was unplanned, but I love him more than anything. So, I'll pretend to do my good deed. Happy Birthday.

Day 5: Reassured

Today I felt a lot better when Bruce, a guy from his church, came by. He let me know that he's been going to him. He misses me and wants me to have his class ring. That meant a lot to me. I used to have his class ring until everything happened. His class ring means a lot to me because I know it means a lot to him. Bruce will be getting that from his grandma. So, I feel reassured. He hasn't forgotten about me and he hasn't given up on us. There is hope. I'm glad he's still with me.

Justice For The Innocent

Imagine this. You are an 18 year old disabled girl who was preyed upon by a 33 year old grown man. He makes you feel good and you enjoy yourself with him. You lose your virginity to him because you honestly believe he is your special someone who deserves that piece of you. He tells you he is sterile and can't make babies. So, you partake in unprotected sex without worrying since he's the only one you have ever been with. You end up pregnant and have no idea what to think. You know you aren't ready for a baby, so you consider adoption so the baby has a chance at a good life. You believe it is the right choice to make. You make it clear that you do not believe in abortion. Your boyfriend who claims to be understanding and loving goes off the deep end. He causes you an incredible amount of stress and does more harm than good. You miscarry, which is very common when you are put under an unmeasurable amount of stress. He goes psycho accusing you of an abortion. With his psychotic ways you are now seeing, you get smart and leave him. He makes every attempt he can to ruin your life from exploiting your entire relationship and sex life on a blog to having a billboard put up. This is the true life story of Nani L.

Nani was a good student, very involved in the theater. She was well liked and had a lot of friends. She didn't let her disability prevent her from living a normal life. Music and dancing were two hobbies of hers that she was extremely passionate about.

The man who tried to ruin her life after he assumed she got an abortion when in reality she miscarried is known as Greg Fultz. He had no qualms about posting every detail he could remember about their relationship and sexual encounters on his blog. It was public for the entire world to see. They had online intimate dates, which he took screenshots of and put up on his blog. This man poked fun at Nani saying her @$$ gave him a droopy face, lazy eye, and drool falling down on his shirt. He stated he regretted going out on the first date with her because she was embarrassing to be around in public. He flat out put their entire sex life on blast like it was no big deal. Once she miscarries he puts the blame of the entire pregnancy on her. He assumes she got an abortion and tells her the pregnancy was all on her for "spreading her legs" and "not insisting on a condom." Then he gets vindictive and puts up a billboard.

When you are in a relationship, and even after, as a grown adult you should be a better person than to exploit every last detail on your blog. If things didn't work out, let them go. It wasn't meant to be. Without any proof of wrongdoings, you need to carry on. Even if you do have proof, you should handle any issues you may have with the person you have the issues with instead of the entire world wide web. Posting a porn in written form on your blog is just completely uncalled for. I really don't understand why the screenshots existed to begin with. There was no need to post them anywhere, censored or not.

Poking fun at the disabled is never okay and this is something I feel very strongly about. I have an aunt who has cerebral palsy. She is mentally and physically challenged. Due to being raised by my grandparents in the same house as her, I have a place in my heart for the special needs. Making fun of them is not okay. People with special needs are more often than not the most kindhearted people you will ever meet. They long to be liked. In my eyes, there is no reason in the entire world that could ever make poking fun at a disabled person okay. They are human just like you and I, and deserve to be treated like people. They are not animals. Embarrassing to be out in public with? I just can't believe someone could say something like this. That's just wrong. I'll bet a million special needs people have far more class than someone who would say something like that. I know my aunt had manners and class. Never was I ever embarrassed to be out in public with her. I enjoyed spending time with her. Due to how kind-natured special needs people are, I considered myself lucky to know my aunt. I think those who know Nani should feel the same. I think an attack like this on someone with special needs is wrong on so many levels.

When Nani miscarried, she was upset. She shut down and did not want to talk. She certainly did not want to talk to someone like Greg who was texting all kings of obscenities to her. He could not understand this and went off the deep end. He starting creating all of these stories about how she "wished" the baby away, used a coat hanger, and got an abortion. None of which are true. She miscarried, which is a heart-wrenching experience for any woman to go through, never mind someone as young as Nani. I know what it's like to have a baby you will never hold. Granted Nani wanted to give him or her up for adoption, she did not what them to not have a chance at life. She wanted them to have a good life, which was why she was considering adoption. I commend her for realizing this. So many people try and fail and ultimately ruin their children's lives instead of doing what is right.

Greg took this to the extreme and had a billboard put up. He tried to have many different companies put up the billboard, but most refused. Only one agreed, but we don't know what company. All we do know is that the billboard was endorsed by the New Mexico Right to Life Association. I just wish this association knew it is all a hoax that Greg created inside his twisted head to get back at Nani. This is taking getting back at an ex-lover to the extreme. He created a fake organization using Nani's name and calling it the National Association of Needed Information. We don't know anything about this "organization." He refuses to answer questions about it. He won't state what constitutes as "needed information." Nor will he say who would access such information. NANI is nothing more than a stab to get back at her. He took his personal issues as public as possible. All this man is doing and has done is harass Nani. He is a disgusting individual if you ask me.

So, who am I and why do I care? I am an outsider. I do not even live in the state where this billboard went up. Heck, I have never even been there. I do not know Nani, nor do I know Greg. I feel strongly on this topic for many reasons. He preyed upon a young girl with a disability. That is my honest belief. It has been said that every single girl he has ever dated has had some form of a disability. That is a major red flag. He told her he was sterile, I think he lied. That is also wrong. So, is he a reproductive abuser? Is this not the first time he has tried this gimmick? I believe that people need to see that Greg is not all rainbows and sunshine. He threatens people at the drop of a hat when they do not agree with him. He does not believe anyone except himself is entitled to an opinion. He has destroyed the reputation of a young girl because of what he assumes, not what he knows. These are the types of people we have in our world. I don't like it. So, I wanted to be heard. I wanted to try and get justice for Nani. She deserves that much. What do you think about this? You can state your opinion on this poll, which was created by Greg.

Sunday, May 15, 2011

Harder Than I Thought

This whole new eating less calories than I burn diet is much harder than I thought. Today was a big fat fail. I went over by 551. So, I'm pretty disappointed in myself. I am scratching eating out off my list. The only way I can eat out is if I only have granola bars for my other meals. So, right now it just won't work. I'm going to have to really strap down. I thought it would be easy and I'd be able to just mark my calories at the end of the day I was obviously wrong. So, now I am going to plan my daily meals according to calories. I really need to do this for myself. It will make me feel so much better when I see results. I know I'm not the only one to fail on the first day of a diet. Any words of encouragement to keep me going are appreciated because right now I'm pretty down.

Couponing Has Become Quite The Craze

It seems as though couponing has definitely become quite the craze. I've clipped coupons here and there in the past, but they very rarely got used. However, I am now seeing how much money people are saving when they use coupons. Some of these girls really know how to do it right! There are many couponing bloggers out there who know about all the deals. They know each different store's coupon policy like the back of their hand. I can honestly admit that I am jealous...so jealous that I have decided to start learning how to effectively use coupons.

For the first time, I clipped all the coupons I had in my house. I went through newspaper fliers, things I get in the mail, and my magazines. For starters, I decided I would organize them in labeled envelopes. Eventually, I do plan on getting a coupon organizer where I can actually see all of my coupons. I plan on going for a small shop this week. So, we will see how I do. I have found blogs with a lot of advice such as Carolina Couponer, The Krazy Coupon Lady, Thrifty Wifey, and The Thrifty Mama. So, I am what you would call a couponing newbie. Have you had any success couponing? Where do you obtain your coupons from? Any other places you have found good couponing advice you'd like to share?

With Colic My Diet Went Out The Window

Last week, I found out Lil' Bean had Colic. I then got a long list of what I had to cut from my diet since I am solely breastfeeding. No dairy, broccoli, cauliflower, lettuce, wheat, caffeine, chocolate, garlic, spicy food, citrus fruit, cherries, and some other things I am sure I am leaving out. So, there went my diet. Once his colic is gone, I plan on going back to it. For now, I do plan on remaining healthy because I do want to lose maybe 10lbs and trim up my thighs, stomach, and waist.

So, I found one way to find out how many calories I should be taking in. Apparently, you start at 100 for 5ft. Then you add 5 for each additional inch. I'm 5'2, so that brings me to 110. If you're small-boned you add 5 more, if you're average you add nothing, and if you're large-boned you add five. I'm small boned, so that brings me to 115. If you don't exercise much, you multiply that number by 12. If you exercise 2-3 times a week, you multiply by 14. If you exercise 6 times a week, you multiply by 16. I go on walks, so I'll say I exercise 2-3 times a week. So multiplying 115 by 14 gives me 1610. Then, if you're under 5'7 you add 200. If you're over 5'7 you add 300. I'm short, so I add 200. That leaves me at 1810. I should be taking in 1810 calories a day.

After finding that out, I went off to find a calorie counter of some kind online. Well, I came across this website. I learned a lot from that link. I've never had to lose weight before, so this is all new to me. I have always been skin and bones. Basically, I need to eat less calories than my body burns to lose weight. So, I followed their link to this calorie deficit calculator. There's a bunch of different options for how much of a calorie deficit you want. I think I'll stick with 500, so that means I should only take in 1310.

Going back to the whole losing weight thing, I found out that my diet should consist of 50% carbs, 30% protein, and 20% fat. In doing this, I do still plan on being smarter about what fats I choose to take in. That I learned with the Mediterranean Diet. Unfortunately, I can't have wheat. So, being smarter about my carbs is a little more difficult right now.

Now, I am someone who needs to keep track of things in order to stick to it. I need it in front of my face, though. So, online things really don't help me. So, I printed out this food diary. I selected carbs, protein, total fat, calcium, and iron for the nutrients I am most concerned about. I printed out my diary and now I am going to utilize it. I can write down what I eat throughout the day and mark the values for my nutrients. Then each night I can come here to find out how many calories I ate that day.

So, I'm going to give this a try. I'm also going to keep track of my measurements each week to see what my progress is. I really hope this works because if not I'm going to be really disappointed. We all try to lose weight at some point in our life, what have you tried? Any success?

Really Crackin' Down

As many of you know, I work from home as an online contractor. I work when I want for however long I want. The only issue with this is sometimes I just don't feel like working and I have nobody to give me that extra push. A couple nights ago I finally gave myself the push I needed. I have since fully completed two contracts and I'm now working on two others I have going currently. One is a bit more fun that the other. I have to literally threaten myself to get myself to work on the other one. The topics I have been getting lately are just sooo boring! However, I do need the money.

Another problem I find myself running into is time. If I could work eight hours straight, I could make a lot. However, having a newborn and a toddler doesn't really lend itself to that. Sweet Pea is always getting into something and Lil' Bean always wants to be held. I get most of my work done during naps and bedtime. However, lately I've been having trouble focusing because Sweet Pea seems to want to protest bedtime every night. Hopefully that will end soon. Last night he fought bedtime for three hours before he finally went to sleep. He didn't really cry. He mainly played. Specifically, he was using his crib as a trampoline. All I heard was bouncy bouncy boom squeal.

I am almost positive I am not the only WAHM. How do you manage being mommy and working from home? How do you motivate yourself?

Saturday, May 14, 2011

Babies on Facebook

So, I was just going through all of my magazines that I somehow got subscribed to. I was mainly looking to see if there were any coupons in them, which there were! Well, I was looking through the March '11 Baby Talk magazine and came to the last page to find this! I about died laughing. I mean, that would be the classic Facebook page! It just cracked me up.

Then I started thinking about the old days of MySpace when everyone made MySpace pages for their pets and kids. I wonder if anyone has now started doing this with Facebook. However, I think Facebook has a minimum age requirement. I am too worried about online safety as it is, so I'm not so sure if I would make a Facebook page for my kids. That and one Facebook is enough to manage for me Right now I'm managing DB's as well. So, I really couldn't see managing four Facebook pages. Would you ever consider making a Facebook page for your kids? Why or why not?

Day 4: Worried

Today it didn't matter how much I worked, my mind was focused on what he's dealing with. I know it's his actions that put him where he is. Him and I are both well aware of that fact. So, we don't need to be reminded. The fact is he has done so much changing. Unfortunately, everyone is used to seeing people like him who never change. He started putting in this effort before him and I even started talking again I believe he truly does want to change.

Anyway...worried. I know he's in jail and not prison, but the same or similar fears still cross my mind. He's small. I don't want him getting into fights. I'm sure he's being quiet and staying to himself. I just hope nothing happens to him. I don't want him getting hurt. What if him being quiet is what provokes someone else? He told me that when the guys from prison have court dates that they are held in the county jail. Those are the real bad guys. What if they get bored, or whatever goes through their mind, and they go after him? I'm not sure how jail guards are, but I know from dealing with my cousins that prison guards are worthless. What if jail guards are the same?

All I can do is pray. When he was in there before he said everyone liked him because he gave them his food. Hopefully they still like him. However, I do hope he's eating. I think next time I go to the store, I'm going to get stuff to freeze meals for him for when he gets out to give to his grandma for him. His grandma doesn't cook very often, but I know he will want a home cooked meal once he is out.