Four Bears in the Bed....

I kid you not...

2012-01-27T11:57:00.005-06:00

I opened my mailbox today and found this little gem waiting for me:

Less than twenty-four hours after escaping near death-by-sports-undergarment (if you haven't ready yesterday's post...now's a good time to get caught up). I was rendered speechless BY THE SHEER AWESOMENESS of this note. It brought a tear to my eye, and a huge guffaw to my belly.

If said local running store didn't already have a loyal customer in me, they CERTAINLY have one now.

Seriously. Is this not the best?

The Devil is in the Details

2012-01-26T16:20:00.005-06:00

I recently received a gift card to the local running store, so I stopped by today to do a little shopping.

Since I am in desperate need of new...um...appropriate running undergarments, I headed straight to that section. Said undergarments come in two-letter options like, for example: H/I, J/K, or L/M/N/O/P. Rest assured, every female bear past puberty and finished with childbearing is relatively familiar with what letter category they fall in. In keeping with my example above (and to save a wee bit of my dignity...) let's say I'm pretty darn sure I fall into the H/I category, and keep moving, 'k?

So, I pull the first H/I undergarment I see off the rack and head to the changing room. I try to pull it over my head and realize there is no way on God's green earth that thing is making it over my elbows, much less my head, shoulders, and...well...you know.

Hmm. That's weird? Maybe the sizing is different (they are made in a foreign land with wee little people, ya know)? I guess I'll go up to the J/K size, then?

Emboldened by this new, interesting size development, I throw all my clothes back on, and sashay back to the undergarment rack where I then pick up the first J/K undergarment I see on the rack and sashay back to the dressing room. I then proceed to try on this undergarment, certain that it will do the trick.

I successfully managed to get this one over my elbows, shoulders and then such. But not without a lot of....grunting. I looked in the mirror and thought that perhaps the undergarment hadn't landed exactly right the first time because I was seeing WAY more bulges than I thought appropriate. So I wriggled, twisted, stuffed, and grunted a little more until I felt certain everything was in its correct place. And yet, the bulging still persisted. I also noticed that I was having a more difficult time than usual breathing.

Hmm..The label did say "high impact." I wonder if it's tighter because of that? I'm not sure I'll need to test this thing with the "jump-up-and-down" testing method. I'm pretty sure no motion is allowed in this sucker. Nope. Not even breathing. Oh dear...the room....is....starting...to go....dark. Ah! I've gotta get this thing OFF OF ME!!!!

Panicked by my need for oxygen, I started to claw away in an attempt to extricate myself from the undergarment of death. No go. I realized the lack of oxygen was making me stressed, so I calmed myself down and tried again. Nada. I bent over and wriggled. I stood up and jiggled. I crossed my arms and tugged. I even tried the hokey pokey. Nothin'.

Oh, Dear Jesus. Please don't let me be caught in this thing! Please, please, please, don't make me have to call that twelve year old ~~anorexic~~ skinny running store employee back here to help me. It's not going to happen. I'll stay in here until this place closes down. Seriously, help a fluffy bear out, would ya? The oxygen depravation is getting to me. I'm starting to see the light. Oh, please, for the love of all things holy, do not let me get stuck in this undergarment forever and be forced to die here and my family have to bear the shame of their Mama Bear dying in the dressing room of a running store. PLEASE GET ME OUTTA THIS THING!!!!

It was time to go MacGyver on things. So while inhaling what precious little oxygen I could get, I threw one arm over my shoulder and grabbed the elbow of that arm with my other hand. I then pushed down on that elbow with all my might, and was able to grasp the back edge of the undergarment. I then pulled with more might than one should (considering the garment was not yet purchased and cost more than a Papa Murphy's dinner for my entire family) and grunted with the force of a weightlifter. This allowed me to free one shoulder blade. I stood firm and repeated the exercise on the other side and freed the second shoulder blade. I then bent over, threw my arms over my back and, on the second try, grasped the tiniest edge of the undergarment with the tips of my fingers and yanked on that sucker with the last bit of life I had in me. When it successfully came flying over my head I swear I heard angels singing. I SWEAR IT!

Well now. I'm glad that's over! Someone needs to tell these folks that the sizing is WAAAY off on these! I'm lucky I didn't die in here. All alone. In my skivvies and a too-tight running undergarment. The horror. Certainly someone has told them about this problem??

I reveled in the oxygen euphoria for a moment and then put on all my clothing, grabbed the undergarment, and marched myself up to the front to give the twelve year old ~~anorexic~~ skinny running store employee a big chunk of my mind.

Excuse me, m'am. But, I just tried on these 2 undergarments, and there is definitely something wrong with the sizing on these. I mean, I KNOW I'm a size H/I, but I couldn't even get that one over my head. So I went up a size to the J/K which, let's be honest, is really pushing the boundaries of reality, and pretty much got stuck in it for the last 10 minutes. Are you certain these are labeled right???

The twelve year old ~~anorexic~~ skinny running store employee was kind enough to take me back to the rack of undergarments in question. She then asked me what I thought was a very weird question. She said, "Well, what size do you need?"

Uh. I just told you this. H/I is really my go-to size.

"No. I mean, what size. You see here? There's a size for each letter. Extra Small H/I, Small H/I, Medium H/I, and Large H/I and so on. What size were you trying on?"

Mumble. Mumble...looks more closely at undergarment tag....mumble..seems I tried on extra small...mumbles....sigh.

So, heed this warning CyberBears. READ THOSE LABELS CAREFULLY. You can truly never be too careful these days. Else you find yourself dead in a running store dressing room.

Or worse, living to tell the story to the entire internets while icing your dislocated shoulder and broken rib and holding your brand new size LARGE H/I undergarment.

Under the weather

2012-01-16T09:03:00.004-06:00

So, Cyberbears, what have you been doing this lovely holiday weekend?

Me? Well, a little bit of this:

And this:

A whole lot of this:
Some of this:
And gobs of this:

Brother Bear came down with the flu but, thanks to the miracle that is Tamiflu, has turned the corner. Sugar Bear is a snotty as can be and I fear Mr. Flu may claim his next victim soon.

Here's to modern medicine, the invention of Lysol, and the TLC only a Mama Bear (okay..or Papa Bear) can offer.

Prayers of the People

2012-01-12T15:44:00.005-06:00

As a layperson, I am often challenged by the thought of praying out loud with others. My prayer journey has mostly been a private one and switching it to a public journey has presented many opportunities for growth. Yesterday, I found myself at another crossroads regarding prayer. Click here to read more.

Auld Lang Syne

2012-01-05T12:38:00.003-06:00

Happy New Year's Cyberbears! I'm ready to tackle 2012 together with y'all. Did you set any New Year's Resolutions? This year, I'm looking at New Year's Resolutions in a new way. Click here to read more.

Glad to share another year with each of you. Here's to 2012 and all it offers!

Silent Night, Holy Night!

2011-12-23T20:18:00.002-06:00

I wanted to embed this properly, but the technology options available to me at the moment will not allow it.

Follow this link to see a special Christmas gift from Brother Bear:

Brother Bear's Christmas Gift

Merry Christmas from our den to yours. May it be Christmas not because of the number of gifts you unwrap, but the ones that already surround you in person and in your heart.

"This was the best Christmas we ever had. It had to be because it always is. I heard my mother say so every year. It was she who protested that she didn't want a present; she just wanted us all to be together and to love one another. It was she who feared that seasonal frenzy would overshadow eternal verities. She was apprehensive that we might get so caught up in the excitement of giving and, regardless of what anyone tried to teach us, of getting, that we would ignore "the true meaning of Christmas". Christmas Gift!, Ferrol Sams

May this be the best Christmas you ever had!

You're A Mean One, Mr. Grinch!

2011-12-19T10:34:00.004-06:00

Brother Bear: Mama Bear, were you born in the 19th Century?

Mama Bear: Uh, no, sweetie. I was born in the 21st Century. What year do you think I was born?

Brother Bear: Hmm... I think, 1908?

Mama Bear:

--------------------

Dearest Santa -

If you are anything like me, you despise last minute gift request. I understand you have a really long list, and scads more cubs to buy for than me. I get it.

But, would you do me a teeny, tiny favor and add one more eensy, weensy thing to your list? Just one thing:

I would like a lifetime's supply of Botox.

I've been very, very, veeeeeerrrry nice. I mean, I didn't say a SINGLE WORD when my sweet bear cub suggested that I am ONE HUNDRED AND THREE years old. SEE? I'm definitely on the nice list.

Thanks in advance for allowing this last minute request. I owe you.

Love and Kisses,

Mama Bear

While Shepherds Watched Their Flocks

2011-12-15T06:45:00.001-06:00

"...This was the year that I bribed five-year-old Sara Kate to say "Heehaw" in the Christmas pageant. I offered her five dollars, but she held out for seven. Her mother wanted her to be an angel, primarily because that costume is easier to make, but Sara Kate willfully insisted on being a donkey and her mother indulged her. She very nearly indulged me when the heehaw broke loose in the church." Christmas Gift! Ferrol Sams

Sugar Bear (the sheep) in the church's Preschool Christmas Pageant willfully refusing to be herded and instead admiring the "pretty red flowers," waving at her brother bear, and sitting when she was supposed to be standing (or visa versa).

I loved every minute. Because, all too soon, these are the minutes I'll wish for again.

"Jesus said, 'Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.' " Matthew 19:14

The Weary World Rejoices

2011-12-14T05:01:00.001-06:00

The following "Dear Santa" letter came home in Brother Bear's folder yesterday:

I wish I (or Papa Bear) could take credit for instilling this precious giving heart in our cub. But we can't. He came hard wired with that heart for giving.

I've been a little off kilter this week. A little too much Scrooge and not enough Bob Cratchit. Thank goodness for my Tiny Tim. It's just what I needed to see today.

God bless us. God Bless us, every one.

Sunday: Angels in my midst

2011-12-09T12:00:00.005-06:00

(part 4 in a 4 part series)

SUNDAY (continued):

And the rain just kept coming.

It took me about 20 minutes to get to the start line (which was way better than last year's start line fiasco). I searched out Brother Bear and GrandDaddy Bear, gave them a wave and kiss, turned up my tunes and headed out.

I'll go ahead and get this out of the way first: The first ankle deep gully-washer puddle (between mile 3 and 4) was the worst. The other 9,462 puddles were a piece of cake. I mean, really, what's another puddle when your feet are already freezing cold and wet?

I felt like I was keeping a good pace early on but unfortunately the weather conditions had messed with the mile markers, so I couldn't keep a solid record of my mile times (I don't use a pace band or a GPS. I'm old school!). I tried to keep track of things in my head, but my math skills couldn't keep up for long. I decided to just keep plugging and recalibrate whenever I had a chance.

Let it be known that this really isn't the greatest running strategy in the world.

But in the words of the famous finned philosopher, Dory, I "just kept swimming."

My first bearfriend sighting was somewhere between mile 6-7. I saw 3 Mama Bears from MOPS who were out cheering for their loved ones racing. It's possible I attack-hugged one of them. She did have a glittery sign with my name on it, though! (Side note: I realized several miles later that I got glitter all over me from the hug. I deemed it pixie dust from the speed fairy {speed as in, run faster, not the other kind} and would make me run fast). I was glad to see them as it gave me a nice lift.

Shortly after that, a complete stranger bear ran up next to me and said, "You are running in honor of your son?" (The back of my shirt stated this) I told her that I was. She looked at me and said, "Alright. Well, I'll run for him too!" I was overcome with emotion and really didn't have words for the kind offer from this bear. But I think I muttered out a heartfelt thank you and she disappeared into the crowd as quickly as she came.

I think it's possible she was an angel. Little did I know what was coming...

At mile 9.3 I saw the beloved angels bears from my awesome church manning the water station. I'll just stop right now and say that it was, by far, the BEST water stop on the course. Can you believe that they had someone specifically assigned to try and sweep away the puddles? Awesome. I hooted and hollered as I passed through and gave my dear bearfriend who thought the idea up a giant wet hug. Too bad she was wearing a fisherman's poncho or I would have really soaked her through!

Then I headed to the lake, also known as "THE GODFORSAKEN LONELIEST MILES OF THE RACE." There aren't many spectators, the miles are starting to add up, and the mental game begins. I suffered through. I sang "Hit Me With Your Best Shot" out loud in honor of my Survivor Bear Friend who suggested the song. Apparently, Mother Nature thought I was talking to her because the wind and rain came back with a vengeance! Urg.

It's about time I tell you that my "stretch" goal for the race was a 4:15. I knew it would be a stretch as it was 10 minutes faster than my previous best time, but I decided that I was going to reach for it. For those of you who aren't marathoners, you need to know that all large marathons have "pacers" who are paid to run in marathons at a certain assigned pace and help guide other runners who want to reach that pace. They run with some balloons on a stick that say the time goal they are running. I'll be totally honest with you right now. I can't stand the pacers. They drive this uber competitive Mama Bear crazy. CRAZY. My last 2 big races, I've been caught in the middle of them and for whatever reason, they just get in my psyche and get me off my game.

So, this year, I decided to outsmart them. Or so I thought. I started well in front of the 4:15 pacer knowing that, if I kept my pace, I would never have to interact with them.

The key in the paragraph above being, "if I kept my pace." Which, If you remember from earlier, I was having trouble keeping up with that data, therefore, I was unaware that around the lake I had slowed down a bit. So at mile 15 when I took a walk break and a crowd passed me led by a lady with balloons, I was utterly shocked. And totally heartbroken. It was WAY too early to have these guys on my heels. And it only meant ONE thing. I HAD SLOWED DOWN. Gulp.

I think it's time for me to introduce you to Kathleen, the 2011 White Rock Marathon Clif Pacer for a 4:15 marathon. Because, she is a key figure in the rest of this story. Cyberbears, meet ~~my nemesis~~ Kathleen:

(Okay, she was wearing a hat, coat, gloves and pants when I saw her. But other than that, this is exactly what I saw!)

Determined that I was NOT going to get caught up in a cat and mouse with the Pacer, I sped up. But I swear I could hear Kathleen's footsteps behind me. It was driving me crazy.

Luckily, at mile 17, I was surprised by a family very dear to us who had come out in the rain to cheer. I was so very grateful for them! I wanted to stop and chat with them, but Kathleen was still breathing down my neck. One of them snapped a picture. So you don't think I'm exaggerating, look at the upper right corner of the picture and you can see Kathleen and her stinkin' red and white balloons (you'll also see one of my running buddies smiling right behind me in the trash bag poncho. He had finished his leg of the relay and was cheering his other runners along. What a sweetie!):

SHE WAS BREATHING DOWN MY NECK!

That picture is likely the last time I smiled until the finish line. Because I REFUSED to get passed again, I dug in my heels, sped up, and dropped my walk breaks at mile 18. I have never tried this before in a race. The program I run says that you can do this if you are feeling good in a race. Which, I still was. I also knew that EVERY Wednesday for the entire six month training season, I would do 8 miles of speed work. So, I told myself that this was just going to be another Wednesday training session. I just had to convince my body.

It was about this time that Mother Nature decided that I was too dry and needed more of a challenge. The sky opened up with what I could only describe as the biggest, fattest, coldest raindrops ever. It's quite possible that I called Mother Nature a very dirty word. But, in my defense, she deserved it.

I kept digging and ran some really fast splits. In all honesty, they were too fast. As I hit the hills at mile 21, I knew I was in trouble. But I REFUSED TO GIVE UP.

At mile 23, Kathleen and her taunting bunch of balloons caught up with me. She was literally behind my left shoulder. I heard someone ask her "are you ahead of pace?" and she said, "yes, one minute." But that gave me no confidence because I knew I had started ahead of her. I kept her behind me.

Until mile 25.

At mile 25, I SWEAR she sped up. I SWEAR IT. She took off past me like a bullet. It was at this point that I realized my gas pedal was already on the floor, and I had nothing left to give. I was already physically beat, but seeing her pass me took away every bit of my mental stamina. My goal was literally running away from me.

I was toast.

It was at that point that this bear from the crowd started running beside me. He looked at me and then he pointed at the pacer and said, "You want to do 4:15 don't you?" All I could do was nod my head and sob a pitiful yes. He then said, "Alright. Let's do it. You can do this. I'll run it with you!" I looked at him in shock! Here was this COMPLETE stranger who was willing to make this sacrifice for someone he'd never met. I started to cry in earnest and just continued to nod my head. So he started running beside me.

And, miraculously, I started to speed up. I started to feel power in my legs again and the possibility that I might still have some gas in the tank. The stranger then looked at me and said, "You don't need me. You've got this. YOU CAN DO THIS!" and then disappeared.

Y'all.

I'm still trying to process this experience. It's likely that this bear could have been a regular Joe off the street. It's also likely (given my physical and mental state at the time) that he was a figment of my imagination. It's also highly likely that he was an angel sent to remind me WHY I was running this race and setting this lofty goal.

Whatever he was, he motivated me. I began running with a force and passion I thought I'd left behind at mile 4 and zoomed past Kathleen. It was about this time that I noticed a god-awful sound. I then realized the sound was coming from me. I was crying, no, sobbing. We are talking wailing wall sounds uncontrollably coming out of me. So much that a guy in front of me looked back to see what was going on. Not my finest moment.

I took a couple of deep breaths in an attempt to regain control (and not scare my fellow racers away). I said a prayer of thanksgiving for the gift I've been given to run. I prayerfully thanked each person who had physically, emotionally, and financially gotten me to this point. I thanked our mighty God for the opportunity to make a difference with 26.2 miles.

And then I waddled my fluffy behind to the finish line as fast as my legs could carry me. I started screaming before I could see the finish line. I was overwhelmed with everything this day meant to me, to my family, to all the patients at TSRHC.

I came across the finish line, stopped my watch and saw this:

GOAL ACHIEVED BABY.

I then walked approximately (or, what felt like) 13.1 more miles to receive my medal and my finisher's shirt. Then I made the tortuous return walk back to find my family. Who, by the way, made the wise decision to stay in the dry hospitality area instead of the freezing cold downpour. Hugs and tears were dispensed. Brother Bear brought me a steaming cup of coffee with a peppermint stick in it and I gulped it down.

I was in heaven.

Save the freezing cold, sopping wet clothes. Luckily, in my crazy panicked packing state the night before, I had thought to pack an entire outfit including undergarments, socks and shoes. Y'all. I've never been so happy that I inherited the overpacking gene from my Mother Bear as I was right then. I stripped those wet clothes off as fast as I could. And, for the record, my feet looked like white prunes. It was disgusting.

While my race was a whirlwind of emotions culminating in achieving my goal, Papa Bear's race wasn't exactly what he wanted. The crowd, the wind and the weather really affected his race and he came up short of his goal of qualifying for his 4th Boston marathon. He was very disappointed. I reminded him that 1) conditions were sub prime 2) he had started a new, stressful job 4 days before the race and 3) oh yeah, HE'D HAD HIS APPENDIX SURGICALLY REMOVED a mere 48 days prior. After all that, these were his dismal results IN THE PAPER the next day:

Yeah, 337th out of 4570 runners is pretty awful Cyberbears. HE SHOULD BE ASHAMED. But, as a competitive person myself, I understand his disappointment and share it with him. The good news is, he'll live to run another one. And, if I know him like I do, he'll qualify again. (Even if he says that he'll never run another marathon.)

So, I think that about covers it. Aren't you glad? That was a NOVEL! But I didn't want to leave out a single detail! I wanted each of you to have a small taste of the entire weekend, the entire experience. It was a precious, awesome, humbling, honor of a weekend.

And, to date, we've raised $5,425.00 for Texas Scottish Rite Hospital.

I call that a success.

Thanks for taking this ride with us. We couldn't imagine better companions.

The End.

Or not.....

Sunday: Runners on your ARK!

2011-12-09T05:02:00.004-06:00

SUNDAY:

My first thought after I shut off the alarm that morning was, "IS IT STILL POURING RAIN?" I tried to convince myself that it was reindeer on the roof, but one look out the window told me differently. The forecast the night before called for "light rain." Let's just say kindly that the forecaster needs to be fired. Tout de suite. Noah built an ark for this kind of weather.

This is a ~~hysterical~~ historical chart of the weather we endured throughout the day:

(Side note, the commentators on the local news' race coverage kept saying these were "ideal running conditions" or "runners love this weather." I'm going to go out on a limb and say his email inbox is currently full of emails to the contrary. Papa Bear and I had discussed that we could handle rain OR we could handle cold. But the two together? In NOAH'S ARK type rain conditions? WORST. RUNNING. WEATHER. EVER.)

But I digress.

Team Four Bears headed down to the race in 2 shifts. Shift 1 (the early shift) was Brother Bear, Papa Bear, GrandDaddy Bear and moi. Shift 2 (the late shift) was GrandMommy Bear and Sugar Bear. Shift 1 took the train, Shift 2 drove in later so that Sugar Bear could get her beauty rest.

The train was packed with runners and by the time we reached the race location I was a nervous wreck (more than the night before). I've never had race jitters so bad. We were lucky enough to have access to the VIP Hospitality Area, so we could get out of the weather. And (more importantly) we had access to REAL potties! Not porta potties! But speaking of weather, it was starting to show signs that the rain might actually stop. Which was fantastic. And, it turns out, a big fat lie. We waited in the hospitality area until the last minute possible. I was so nervous that I was nauseated and the smell of the food buffet almost sent me over the edge! If anyone ever tells you that race jitters go away after a few marathons, I'm here to tell you it's not before marathon number fourteen.

GrandDaddy Bear kindly took the reigns of watching Brother Bear since Papa Bear and I were running the marathon. Apparently, Brother Bear had a blast hamming it up with other patient champions, TSRHC employees, Marines, local Bar Association members trying to break a pancake serving record, and generally anyone who would look in his direction. We've always bemoaned the fact that he's such a shy cub. (Snort, snort, guffaw.) While I wasn't there to see it, word is that he and GrandDaddy Bear had a blast enjoying all the start line festivities.

About ten minutes before the race start, we headed to the start line. We found a perfect spot for Brother Bear and GrandDaddy Bear to watch it all and Papa Bear headed to his start area (waaaaaaaaay up front). I then hugged my cub tight, felt a knot rise in my throat as I looked him straight in the eyes and said, "I want you to know that this race today, this is for you. For all you've endured. I'm running today for you."

Then I headed to my starting spot (waaaaaaaaaaay in back).

And then the sky opened up.

(To be continued...)

Saturday: Pasta Found, Mind Lost

2011-12-08T05:32:00.006-06:00

(Part 2 in a 4 Part series)

SATURDAY:

GrandMommy Bear & GrandDaddy Bear arrived. They kindly watched Sugar Bear and got her in bed on time while Papa Bear, Brother Bear and I ~~attended~~ made an appearance at a wonderful annual "Angel Tree Party" hosted by a dear bear friend (we had taken the opportunity earlier to shop for our angels as a family...but we hated to not stop by for this very special event). We then hopped in the car and drove in a TORRENTIAL DOWNPOUR to the Annual Pre Race Pasta Dinner. I believe we were the last to arrive due to traffic. I was mortified. But we found our seats and had a wonderful pasta dinner with some other Patient Champion families and a TSRHC employee and his lovely wife.

We celebrated the amazing story of the Junior Race Director, wished everyone a great race, oh, and saw the dancers for a local professional sports team. UP CLOSE. AND PERSONAL. Cyberbears, I'm here to tell you that I now know the answer to "who wears short shorts?" Wow. I'm guessing they didn't partake of the pasta that evening. Papa Bear might have possibly used his precious, cute child to finagle a picture with said dancers. Brother Bear (and the dancers) were happy to oblige. AND I TOOK THE PICTURE. I am nothing if not a loving wife and Mama Bear.

Ahem.

We then headed home in the STILL pouring rain, BUT NOW FREEZING COLD TEMPERATURES. (Is the caps lock helping at all with the foreshadowing?) Brother Bear headed to bed. Papa Bear quickly, calmly and methodically packed his race day bag. I, on the other hand, RAN AROUND THE HOUSE LIKE A CHICKEN WITH MY HEAD CUT OFF trying to figure out all the myriad details for the next day, cursed blogger for deleting my race day post AGAIN, and became a general, wheels off, nervous wreck. It was not pretty. We finally headed to bed where I tossed and turned until my alarm went off.

Nice.

(To be continued....)

Friday: T Shirts, Turkey Necks and Toe Funk

2011-12-07T05:00:00.001-06:00

(Part 1 in a 4 part series)

FRIDAY:

Friday started with the family gathering around the newspaper to see the sweet article in the local insert to our metropolitan paper. Since Brother Bear reads the paper at breakfast every morning, this was truly one of his highlights. I then reminded him that he was a regular cub with a regular Friday spelling test and sent him off to school for his test. I picked him up shortly thereafter to begin the weekend festivities.

The events started with the annual pre-race tee shirt signing event on Friday. They have the patient champions and several race celebrities sign tee shirts for the patients. Fun was had by all. Brother Bear took his role very seriously. See here:

(He had been working for weeks on the smiley face and peace sign that went along with his signature!)

Sugar Bear hammed it up, fussed it up, ate a bag of popcorn and then commandeered the camera. See here:

(This is your camera)

(This is your camera with a 3 year old)

(Um. Why haven't any of you CyberBears told me about the turkey neck I'm apparently growing?)

( I THOUGHT YOU WERE MY FRIENDS!)

I, all the while, beamed with pride. Oh, and I might have also possibly used my cute cubs to finagle a picture of myself (oh, and the cute cubs) with 2 of the elite Kenyans. It's also quite possible that I squealed like a teenage girl at a Bieber concert when they said yes.

Possibly.

We then headed down to orthotics to discuss a rash that had recently developed on Brother Bear's legs where he wears his night braces. I was kindly informed that the rash was due to nothing more than simple BAD MOTHERING on my part. I left the hospital in shame. Shame, I tell you. (Bottom line: real Mama Bears don't let their cubs' braces grow "things" in them. Ew!)

(To be continued....)

Living to tell the story

2011-12-06T20:03:00.013-06:00

Whew.

I've been working on the weekend recap in my head since Sunday. Unfortunately, I've been rudely interrupted by this:

and this:

Did you know that laundry and dishes don't give a hoot if you ran 26.2 miles the day before? Well, now you do. Bah Humbug!

I will try to recap the highlights of our weekend. I'm afraid I just won't do it justice. If I don't, then call me. I'll walk you through every detail. In depth. With hand motions.

Until then, I've broken the weekend down into a four part series. There will be one post for Friday, and Saturday and two for Sunday. I hope this will make it a little more manageable.

First post is tomorrow morning...

Enjoy!

Today

2011-12-05T07:40:00.003-06:00

Getting out of bed just might be my biggest accomplishment of the day today (that first step was a doozy). Can't wait to tell you all about yesterday! More details to come!

Sacrifice

2011-12-04T05:00:00.001-06:00

...The Hopis consider running a form of prayer; they offer every step as a sacrifice to a loved one, and in return ask the Great Spirit to match their strength with some of his own

(Born to Run - Christopher Mcdougall)

------------------------------------------------------------------

Today Papa Bear and I both run 26.2 miles in honor of our son and all of the patients at Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children (TSRHC). We run so that each of the (over) 120,000 patients seen per year at TSRHC has the opportunity to receive the same excellent care our son receives. For each of these patients, we will keep moving.

We will not quit.

We could not have made this journey without your support, your love, your friendship, your sacrifice. You have encouraged us along the way. You have listened to our endless discussions of all things marathon. You have sacrificed financially to support a cause that means so much to us. Tomorrow as we run, each step we take will be a prayer of thanksgiving for your gifts to us.

YOU are spreading the word.

YOU are lighting a fire.

YOU are making a difference.

YOU are Team Four Bears.

Thank YOU.

Erin & Brent Basden - Emily & Ben Guthrie - Jill & Julian Vigil - Laura & Ryan Prejean - Holly Smith - Robyn Lilly - Maggie Lamberth & Family - Mary & Kenton Keller - Charlotte Allen - Jeanne, David, Emma & Lottie Vickers - Lydia & James Perry - Sarah Thompson - Abbey & Chris Adcox - Christie & Iain Michie - Kerry & Travis Dunbar - Anonymous - Maggie Funk - GrandMommy & GrandDaddy (Carole Jean & Maxey) Abernathy - Virginia DeMent & Family - Sheila & Gene Moore - Jill & Larry Granberry - Papa Ross Franck - Jewell & Paul Abernathy - Emily & Seth Kenton - Kathleen Alverson - Brenda & Gwin Morris - Kristy & Vic Iaconos & Family - Eric Horstman - Kim & George Mason - Geri Cortinas-Long - Lauren & Bill Hollis - Hillary Campbell - Kendra Hallett - Akli Tabti - Karen Hurtado - Della Mae & Perry Smith - Mimi & Poppa (Sandy & Ross) Woodbury - Kim & Russell Williams - Mary Hope & Derry Burns - Monica Citilan - Mary Pat & Joe Czajkowski - Jamilia Abdashimova - Ashok Settyvari - Goldman Sachs Matching Gifts Program

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...there was some kind of connection between the capacity to love and the capacity to love running. The engineering was certainly the same: both depended on loosening your grip on your own desires, putting aside what you wanted and appreciating what you got, being patient and forgiving and undemanding.

(Born to Run - Christopher Mcdougall)

GOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAALLLL!!!!!!

2011-12-02T17:49:00.004-06:00

~~$5,000.00~~

~~$5,050.00~~

$5,100.00

Words escape me.

Wait, no they don't.

Humbled.

Honored.

Blessed.

Overwhelmed.

(You get the picture)

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU!

Moved by the Music!

2011-12-01T11:50:00.007-06:00

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Team Four Bears is now only ~~$635~~ ~~$610~~ ~~$585~~ ~~$575~~ ~~$475~~ $450 away from our $5000 goal!

Want to help us reach our goal?

Just click HERE!!

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Are you moved by music? I know I am. Music helps me pass the time, think about something other than the pain of a long run, inspires me to run longer, faster, and not give up.

My choice of music is incredibly eclectic. My play list ranges from rock, pop, bluegrass, country, gospel, and Glee (that's a musical genre, didn't you know?). I tend to gravitate towards songs that have inspirational words versus great musical prowess. Given that I have NO musical skills whatsoever, that kinda makes sense. Most people would think that I need fast, upbeat music to get me across the finish line. For a 5k, maybe. But not me. I need the words, the inspiration. Are any of us surprised by this?

These are the current top 5 on my running playlist:

(I think my 16 year old niece-bear just passed out from the uncoolness of that list. So very sorry EBear! I promise I'm still cool. Sorta.)

So, a few marathons back, I wasn't feeling the motivation I needed to get myself across the finish line. So, I asked my bear friends to help me. I had them email Papa Bear a song they thought would help get me across the finish line. He then loaded them on my music player and I listened to them the whole race. IT. WAS. AWESOME. And hilarious. And downright fun.

So. I'm doing it again this year. With a twist.

Donate at least $10 to Team Four Bears and you can suggest a song for my playlist. If it's not already on my playlist, I'll download it and ~~be forced to~~ have the opportunity to listen to it during the race on Sunday. No matter what. Sweet, sappy, funny, obscene. Even if it's rap.

"Official" Rules -

Donate $10 or more to Team Four Bears
Put your song suggestion in the comments on this blog or in the comments section of this link on Facebook.
If you have already donated to our team, just put your song suggestion in the comments on this blog or in the comments section of this link on Facebook.
One song per donor.

I'll then put a return comment to each of you confirming that your song selection has been added to the playlist.

Help us reach our goal of $5000 and musically motivate me across the finish line!

Motivational Challenge - Winner!

2011-11-30T09:31:00.005-06:00

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Team Four Bears is now only $635 away from our $5000 goal!

Want to help us reach our goal?

Just click HERE!!

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Our Motivational Challenge winner is Emily G Bear! Emily is a super hip young Mama Bear of three young cubs. She is so very bright, loves her kiddos, is a culinary whiz, and has a razor sharp wit. In addition to crossing paths with her at church, I often catch up with her at the local gym. We can trade stories of being called a man when we rock our sassy short hair during our workouts!

Emily G Bear's motivational story for getting/staying fit (her words):

"The days I get to go to the gym are the only days I get a shower."

Did I not mention the razor sharp wit? But, seriously, what better motivation for a Mama Bear with young cubs at home than a guaranteed hot shower (without interruption from the cubs)?

Love it.

Thanks to all that participated! So glad to see there are other bears out there that are pushing themselves and finding motivation!

Keep moving!

Motivational CHALLENGE - What's your motivation?

2011-11-29T00:00:00.004-06:00

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Team Four Bears is now only $710 away from our $5000 goal!

Want to help us reach our goal?

Just click HERE!!

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++

What is YOUR motivation?

I watched this YouTube video recently and was moved beyond words. You may have already seen it. Maybe not. Take a moment to watch it (major kleenex alert!):

Amazing, no?

When bears hear that I'm a marathoner, their first comment is something along the lines of "Are you crazy?" or "I couldn't run 26.2 miles if I was being chased by a bear!" (Come on. Did you expect me to use another animal?) To answer their first question, yes, I am crazy, but not because I run. And in response to their second comment? Well. Yes, yes you could.

You just haven't tried.

But here's the thing: I understand not trying. I've been there. And really, while I've never had to lose as much as Ben (in the video), I've had to have inspiration to get myself off the couch, out the door, and on the pavement. I feel Ben's journey. I share his process.

It's no secret that I've battled weight issues for a long time (helloooo, public battle!). Those issues eroded my body image and began to make me think I was something less than fearfully and wonderfully made. Over the past year, I decided to change my focus (again...very publicly). I decided to focus more on the positives (my fitness, my strength) and less on the negatives (a number on a scale). In doing so, I became more confident, happier and STRONGER than I've been in a long time. And if that means my jeans fit a little better too, well, that is just icing on the cake!

Now, let’s be real here. I’m not perfect. Not by a long shot. However, each day, I'm finding my list of "cans" is overtaking my list of "can'ts." Sure, I still battle old demons and sub-par choices (like my single handedly demolishing almost an entire Cheese Ball at Thanksgiving, for example). But, I know now I’m moving forward on this journey, not back.

One step at a time.

And that is all that matters.

So, don’t be surprised the next time you hear someone tell me “they could never…” you then hear me interrupt them with a long list of why they certainly could.

And now, for the TEAM FOUR BEARS Motivational Challenge:

I want to know what is YOUR motivation for getting and staying fit? Do you have a story to tell? Put it in the comments section and let me know. I guarantee I’ll read every story!

But, do you also want EVERYONE to know your story too? Well, put your $MONEY$ where your motivation is! Be the HIGHEST DONOR to Team Four Bears on TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 29, 2011 and you will WIN the opportunity to tell your story right here on THIS BLOG!

(“Official” Rules: donate the highest $ amount to Team Four Bears between 12:00 a.m. and 11:59 p.m. on Tuesday, November 29, 2011 to win)

What's in your grocery cart?

2011-11-23T05:45:00.002-06:00

UPDATE:

Through your generosity, Team Four Bears is now only $760 away from our $5000 goal!

A-MAZING!

Want to help us reach our goal?

Just click HERE!!

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Our Thanksgiving shopping list

lovingly prepared by Brother Bear

The Four Bears Den has been put in charge of an entire food group for our Thanksgiving festivities. That food group is: PIE. Mmmmm, who doesn't like a good pie? Specifically, Pumpkin Pie & Pecan Pie. Since both the cubs are home today and Papa Bear is working, I thought it would be fun to let each cub "help" me with the preparations. In my mind, this will work out great. Each cub will have a pie assigned to them. They will be neat, follow directions, and never, ever lick the beater.

Yeah right.

Seriously, I expect it to be controlled chaos and my only goal is that I don't have to redo any pies.

But, even if I do, I wouldn't have it any other way.

Looking for a good Pumpkin Pie recipe? Look no further! This is my go-to recipe for pumpkin pie:

Mama Bear's Spiced Pumpkin Pie

2/3 cup golden brown sugar, packed

1/2 cup sugar

2 Tbs all purpose flour

1/2 tsp salt

1/2 tsp cinnamon

1/8 tsp allspice

1/8 tsp cloves

1/8 tsp ginger

1 1/2 cup canned solid packed pumpkin

2 TBS mild flavored or light molasses

3 large eggs

1 cup whipping cream

1 frozen deep dish pie crust

Put a baking sheet in the oven and preheat to 450 degrees. Whisk first 8 ingredients together in a large bowl. Whisk in pumpkin, molasses, and eggs and then add cream. Pour mixture into prepared frozen crust. Place pie on preheated baking sheet. Bake 10 minutes. Reduce heat to 325 degrees and bake until set (sides puff up and center is just set) - about 40 minutes. Can be made one day ahead, just cover and refrigerate. Serve at room temperature. (If you are an overachiever and want to use homemade pie crust, feel free. Just be sure to watch the crust so it doesn't burn!)

So, what are you making for Thanksgiving? All of it? One part? Nothing? Let me know!

Overflowing

2011-11-21T05:52:00.000-06:00

I've mentioned this before, but Papa Bear and I are a house divided when it comes to looking at a glass (proverbially speaking, of course). He, ever the realist, sees a glass half empty. I, on the other hand, see the glass as half full. One of the many reasons we go together like peas and carrots. ( Assuming you like peas and carrots together. Which I don't. Because, eww. They are the grossest veggies known to mankind {other than brussel sprouts and cauliflower - gag!} why would you ever put them together?)

I digress.

So. We are twelve days aways from the 2011 MetroPCS White Rock Marathon. TWELVE days! There isn't anymore training left. Just waiting. My favorite thing!

We've had some bumps in our training plan this year. Papa Bear's bump was the worst with the unexpected removal of his appendix. He's bounced back rather quickly, but he's worried his goals for a 4th Boston are out of reach now. Cup half full.

I've started the season with a strained hamstring and ended it with a strained quadriceps. Both minor annoyances. I currently have a chest cold (or tuberculosis...jury's still out) that I'm hoping to kick sooner versus later. Other than that, my training season was spectacular. And any seasoned marathoner knows, that's not a good thing. We runners are a superstitious lot. And for me, that means I need to have one horrific training run before the race. Or else, the race may be the horrific part. But, who knows, right?

So, we are a mere twelve days away from a spectacular day of family running and celebration, and we aren't feeling 100%. We also aren't at 100% of our fundraising goal. We are $1275 short of our $5000 goal. We need to raise (over) $100 per day for the next twelve days to meet our goal.

Now, a Mama Bear could look at this and get discouraged. She could whine and pout, and talk a lot about how half full that glass is.

But not this Mama Bear.

This Mama Bear's cup is not only half full, Cyberbears, it's overflowing.

Overflowing with gratitude for a team of doctors, nurses, orthotists, and physical therapists that treat my cub with dignity, respect, love and passion.
Overflowing with gratitude for friends and family that have supported us emotionally through our journey.
Overflowing with praise for the gift of being able to run ONE mile. Much less twenty six point two. A point that is never, ever far from my mind.
Overflowing with humility at the number of friends, coworkers (Papa Bear's), and family that have sacrificed from their pocketbook to help us raise money. We know that each dollar you donated, whether one or one thousand, was a dollar you could have spent on yourself or your family. We are honored.

So, no, you won't hear me complaining, or talking about a glass half full. No way, no how.

No matter what, my cup overflows...

***Interested in making a donation to "Team Four Bears"? There's still time!! Just click here!***

Conspiracy Theory

2011-11-16T19:47:00.003-06:00

Today on Facebook, I'm talking about a radical conspiracy I've joined. Click here to read more. Warning: reading this post may change your life.

Loud and Clear

2011-11-10T20:19:00.002-06:00

Have you heard the voice of God? Today on Facebook, I'm talking about hearing God through (of all things) my car stereo. Click here to read more.

Conquering Fears

2011-11-09T06:30:00.000-06:00

Yes, Cyberbears. I conquered a fear this weekend. It was difficult. There was a wee bit of crying. And nashing of teeth. And perchance some other minor dramas. But I stuck with it. I endured. I did it. I conquered my fear.

See?

No. I didn't conquer my fear of making up my bed, Mother Bear.

Sigh.

That's me! In a pair of skinny jeans! Seriously! Do you see the exclamation points?

!!!!

Remember this post? Yeah, me too. Well, my derriere is still round and ample. But, day by day, my confidence is growing. I'm becoming more confident with the body God gave me and how I'm putting it to use as His temple. And, the skinny jeans? Well, besides being a reward for my goal setting and achieving, they are a fun reminder that I am fearfully and wonderfully made.

Even if I have a lil' junk in the trunk.

Here's hoping they don't go out of style too quickly!

Thanks for joining on this journey with me. I hope to, in time, share more with you about how I'm trying to conquer my body image issues - one day, one challenge at a time.

(Oh. And, bonus item. Said jeans cost only $16.99! Thanks to dear friends JoBear and LHBear for hooking me on the greatness that is TJMaxx!)

Deep Thoughts

2011-11-08T09:12:00.003-06:00

Or not so much.

It seems that with all I've had going on with life, I just can't seem to string a poignant thought together these days. My commitments are too many, my to-do list too long, and I've felt pulled in a million different directions. I've been overwhelmed with life emergencies as well as making serious decisions for our family that have left me bereft of anything worthy to write, much less post. My brain lately is only capable of random, short spurts of twitter-esque thoughts. Fashion Friday pictures linger on my hard drive. My plans and goals for updating on Team Four Bears have been delayed and delayed. Basically, I've left this blog "like a ship without a sail, like a boat without a rudder, like a fish without a tail." (extra points for those collegiate Cyberbears that know the reference!). For this control freak Mama Bear, feeling this way has been beyond frustrating.

The good news is, many of my (over)commitments are closing down in the next few weeks and (for the most part) big family decisions are behind us. The clouds are parting and I'm starting to see the proverbial light at the end of the tunnel.

The bad news is, in an effort to entertain my audience (all 3 of you), I've decided today to deliver the deep thoughts that have been bouncing around in my head lately.

I'll just go ahead and say this now and get it out of the way: send all complaints to our corporate headquarters - myfriendandspousewhoencouragedmetostartthisblog (at)fourbearsinthebed (dot) com.

Without further adieu:

While editing/reviewing recent communications and writing, I've noticed that I have a terrible habit of leaving my parenthesis open. Instead of thinking of myself as a grammatically incorrect, I've decided to label myself as someone who likes to keep her options open.
If I were in charge of some local races, (which I'm not. Because, I DON'T HAVE THE TIME!) there would be some significant changes. Numero Uno being the porta potties. Bottom line: you can never have enough porta potties at a race. Never.
As evidenced by deep thought above, my never ending immersion in potty training, an elderly dog, an eight year old boy, and a spouse, my life is consumed with poo. I never thought this would happen. Yet here I am. Immersed in poo. I could start a blog about poo. Seriously. When I listen to one of my favorite songs, "These Are The Days" a life immersed in poo is not exactly what I'm thinking. (Cub Master Bear...that one's for you)
Numero Dos race change would be wide, wide, wide starting areas. 2700 people smushed into a small space is more than this claustrophobic Mama Bear can handle. Don't bears have personal space issues anymore?
I set another PR this weekend for a half marathon. Shaved 2 minutes off my previous best. I'm kinda stoked about it. Interestingly enough, I ran a much smarter race than last year, but it was (or, it felt like it was) a harder race. Either way, color me happy.
I've seen and heard nothing but complaints about Daylight Savings Time. Can I say, it has been THE BEST THING EVER for our den? Seriously. I'm bouncing out of the bed. NO JOKE! Papa Bear's jaw hit the ground this morning when I got out of bed without snoozing the alarm. And the kids? They wake up BEFORE the alarm AND (more importantly) they are HAPPY about it. Bring on the Daylight Savings Time, Cyberbears. Bring it on.
I have a new ~~addiction~~ habit: nightly bowl of sugary cereal. It's a problem. The cereal changes from week to week (based on the sales), but the ~~addiction~~ habit sticks. Perhaps there are 12 step programs? Or, perhaps, I'll just stick my head in the sand. They are whole grain cereals after all.

Okay. So, maybe I should have kept my thoughts to myself. But, where's the fun in that?

Hoping to be back soon with something more interesting...

Lost and Found

2011-10-27T12:30:00.005-05:00

Am I the only one that spends WAY too much time looking for lost things? I hope not. We recently had a "lost and found" experience that offered me new perspective. Click here to read more.

Evolution

2011-10-25T06:02:00.000-05:00

If there were ever an argument for the validity of evolution, it would begin with the amazingly useless human organ, the appendix. Known only to mankind for it's ability to wreak havoc on a mundane Monday night to an otherwise supremely fit and healthy bear.

Or so I'm told.

For those that don't know, Papa Bear came down with a nasty case of appendicitis last Monday night and subsequently had said vestigial structure surgically removed on Tuesday. Ever the overachiever (or, perhaps just tired of his "home health care") he decided to be readmitted (well, really, the surgeon decided that part) on Friday due to a "postoperative complication". I'll spare you the details. But, let's just say that if Papa Bear didn't lose his dignity during the first hospital visit, I GUARANTEE YOU he lost it the second go round. However, it was worth the loss of dignity to get him feeling better. (So saith me.)

I'm a week behind on everything (especially sleep), but a week full of gratitude. So many bears jumped to our aid, all of them at the right time, with the right things. Being torn between my cubs at home and needing to care for my spouse was challenging, but knowing that they were safe in the arms of dear friends made it much more tolerable. I am indebted to these fine bears for so much, not the least of which was dealing with Sugar Bear's potty training regression last week. Eek.

But also things like:

Dropping everything at their own house to oversee my house while we rushed to the ER
Waking up extra early to check on our status and change cub watching shifts
Clothing and feeding my cubs, getting them to school, picking them up from school, entertaining them, loving them, etc...
talking me off of the ledge via text when I had reached the end of my rope
bringing me a breakfast burrito and the (much needed) strongest cup of coffee I've ever had
packing a bag of things from home I might need
knowing, without asking, that a change of undergarments and socks would be exactly what I needed (and knowing where to find them!) after 2 nights in the same clothes
packing snacks and advil. Oh, for the love of all things holy, that advil saved my life
Figuring out the little details I couldn't
Telling me you are bringing dinner. (And knowing that you would have to tell me, not ask me) And bringing comfort food at it's finest.
Dropping off a perfect Sunday lunch (with leftovers!). And ignoring the fact that I was still in my pajamas. At noon.

These things are just a few of the wonderful things you all did for me. I'll take these over flowers any day.

I was on the phone with My Daddy Bear updating him on all these things and he said, "Wow! You guys have some great friends."

Indeed we do. Indeed.

No Words

2011-10-05T20:35:00.006-05:00

Ever been at a lack for words? Yeah, me neither.

No, seriously though. I had an experience this weekend in which I realized my words were insignificant. Click here to read more.

Your Future

2011-10-05T06:43:00.001-05:00

Want to know what I wish for my future self? Here's your answer:

Seriously. The power of hard work, determination, will power, positivity, and a never-say-never attitude. Awesome.

Thanks, MissAdaptation for the tip off to this story.

So, what do you wish for your future self?

Happy Monday

2011-10-03T14:46:00.003-05:00

This made me laugh. Because, HONEST TO GOODNESS, I went to my Doctor about ten months after Sugar Bear was born looking exactly like this lady. My symptoms included: tired, can't remember anything, and want to kill my spouse.

I believe she quoted those exact words in the cartoon above to me.

In hindsight, I'm so embarrassed that I didn't recognize it. But, GAWD, in the moment of trying to navigate life with two children, I thought I had something seriously wrong with me.

At least it's not fatal.

Right?

Sprinkles

2011-09-29T12:02:00.002-05:00

I went to the same pediatrician from 18 months of life to, oh, let's call it 18 years old (I'm fairly certain I'm one of the few patients he had to kick out of his office...). His name was Dr. Payne. Seriously. With a name like Payne, you are FORCED into either a career as military official or a pediatrician. Because every four year old cub loves to hear the words, "Sweetie, are you ready to go see Dr. Payne?" Right?

Anyhoo. In the bathroom of Dr. Payne's office there was a silly little poem above the toilet. It read:

"If you sprinkle

when you tinkle,

Be a sweetie and

wipe the seatie."

And, considering I had somewhere between twelve and, oh, six million and forty two urinary tract infections in my life, I spent a lot of time in that bathroom reading that silly poem. A lot.

So, yesterday, Sugar Bear finally did the big deed in the potty (I'll save you the details. And the picture. Papa Bear was not as lucky as you...). Big deal in our household. B-I-G. I'll admit right here on my blog to some serious poor parenting and let you Cyberbears know that I bribed the heck outta that cub. I think I might possibly have offered her a car when she turns sixteen. But, I was desperate folks!

Wanna know what the winning bribe was? Do you? Well, I'll tell you. My Sugar Bear stayed true to her nickname and held out for a Sprinkles Cupcake. Oh. Yes. She. Did.

And all I could think of yesterday the rest of the day was that stupid, stupid poem.

Kinda ruined the cupcake experience for me.

Welcome to just a small peek into the madness that is moi, Mama Bear. You are welcome.

I Don't Know How She Does It

2011-09-26T07:03:00.004-05:00

There's a movie coming out now (based on a book that, incidentally, I was reading when I found out that Brother Bear was going to join our world) called I Don't Know How She Does It. Heard of it? It's about a working mom who is trying to balance everything in her life. Although I LOVE me some SJP, I'm not 100% sure I'm going to go see it.

Why?

Well. I'll tell you. (Hold on just a second while I get my step stool a little closer to the pulpit. Tap, tap, tap. Is this thing on? Can you hear me? Okay. Good.)

It's because, hello, (spoiler alert) reality is: SHE DOESN'T REALLY DO IT. That's right folks. The regular, run of the mill wife/mother/etc., CANNOT DO IT ALL. (Audience gasps) It's a lie portrayed beautifully through characters like: June Cleaver, Carol Brady, Shirley Partridge, and Claire Huxtable. Great moms? Sure, on paper and film. Real moms? Meeehhhh...not so much.

Real moms spend every single day walking the tightrope of life, falling down, getting up, falling down, getting up, going to bed and then getting back up the next day to do it all over again. Real moms feel the pressure (created by society) to be perfect and daily fight the battle to grasp that ever elusive, ever moving golden ring.

And Mama Bears, we're never going to get it. It just isn't possible.

When I think of the title "I Don't Know How She Does It" I actually think the same thing. Because these are the kinds of things this Mama Bear does:

Shows up for Sugar Bear's ballet class (not the first one, mind you) at the time the class gets out...not when it starts.
In the hustle and bustle of back to school hysteria, forgets to plan her youngest cub's birthday party until two weeks before said birthday.
Ignores the blinking oil light on the car that says "-151%." Because, if the Swagger Wagon didn't spontaneously combust at -135% it will probably survive a few more errands.
Drops off cub at school wearing her pajamas because getting 5 more minutes of shut-eye beat out vanity.
Cannot, for all that is good and holy, get her youngest cub to poop in the potty.
Has a list, but cannot find it.
Recognizes at, oh, midnight or so that she never got around to brushing her teeth. Or bathing. Or combing her hair.
Forgets friends' birthdays, anniversaries and other very important life events. Constantly.
Has her cub study the spelling list all week only to realize at 11 p.m. the night before the test that she gave the cub the wrong spelling list.
Registers for a mandatory scout training class less than 24 hours before said training class begins.
Oversleeps and misses her weekly long run with her running group. That she's supposed to help lead.
Goes a whole evening without recognizing that she has her panties on backwards. (Truth. Very, very uncomfortable truth)

I could go on. But I won't. Because you get the picture. And I don't even have a paying-outside-of-the-den job. (For those of you who do - hats off. You guys rock and are my total heros.)

So, despite my love for SJP, I hope you'll excuse me if I skip this one.

I just can't do it.

Eight

2011-09-23T09:52:00.002-05:00

Eight.

Oh my.

I can barely get the words out of my mouth!

I gasp sometimes when I think about it.

Eight years ago today

You made me a Mama Bear.

You took someone who thought she knew everything

and turned her world upside down.

(I mean that in the best way possible!)

And now, as if I blinked

it's eight years later.

You're independent.

very independent.

Yet, you still give me sloppery kisses.

You are so inquisitive.

so very inquisitive.

Yet, you still think I know most things.

You are so brave.

so very brave.

Yet, you still need a reassuring huggle every once in a while.

Brother Bear,

your heart and passion sometimes exceed what your little body is capable of holding.

Yet, you never cease to amaze me.

I'm starry eyed in your presence.

My first born.

My boy.

Here's to Eight.

It's magic.

Love,

Mama Bear, Papa Bear & Sugar Bear

Committed

2011-09-22T11:36:00.002-05:00

Are you committed? Today on Facebook, I'm talking about getting committed. Click here to read more (and maybe even get committed).

Remembering

2011-09-20T05:55:00.003-05:00

September 20, 2010.

I remember.

I would carry the burden for you today (and tomorrow, and the next day...) dear friend if I could.

If only I could.

Today, I dedicate my post to you. You, who has the strength of twenty men. You, who crossed one of life's milestone too early. You, who walks through the path of sorrow with both Southern and Godly grace.

The closing hymn on Sunday made me think about the path we've shared together as friends. How blessed I have been to have you by my side in certain circumstances. How I hope you know I'm here. But more importantly, how you know that you are being carried through this by someone who's stronger and more powerful than either you or me.

Today I will sing the wondrous story. You don't have to sing along. I'll sing it for you.

"I was bruised but Jesus healed me;

Faint was I from many a fall;

Sight was gone and fears possessed me,

But he freed me from them all.

Days of darkness still come o'er me,

Sorrows paths I often tread,

But the Savior still is with me;

By his hand I'm safely led."

I remember.

Kryptonite

2011-09-19T07:02:00.001-05:00

If I were a super hero bear (which, let's just get this out of the way right now, I AM NOT) do you want to know what would be my Kryptonite? Do you?

I'll tell you. No, I'll show you:

AHHH! I can feel the superpowers being sucked from me as. I. type....

I'm going to be an honest Mama Bear right now and tell you a secret:

I HATE POTTY-TRAINING.

Hate it. HATE, HATE, HATE. Yes, the word I tell my cubs they cannot say. So there. Call CPS and tell them. Maybe they will come potty train my cubs for me. BECAUSE I AM A COMPLETE AND TOTAL POTTY TRAINING FAILURE. There are a MILLION other parenting type jobs that I would rather do than potty train a toddler cub. Seriously. A MILLION. I've reached the point where I understand how parent bears pay other people to train their cubs. Because, I'm pretty much there (Anyone up for a barter? I can make several delicious dinners to trade?!?!).

I've taken suggestions from friends, read the articles, tried to put the tips into use, bribed, cajoled, etc. TO NO AVAIL.

I'm powerless in the face of Potty Training, and I don't like it one bit.

Sigh.

I know she won't go to kindergarten wearing pull ups. I know it will happen. I know. But, I just needed to let y'all know how I'm feeling these days.

So, Cyber Bears if you were a Super Hero Parent Bear (which, I'm sure many of you ARE) what would YOUR Kryptonite be?

Tell me, please. Feel free to be anonymous in the comments section. I just need a little parental-bear commiseration here...

Faulty Plumbing

2011-09-14T23:15:00.004-05:00

Need a tissue? Me too. Today I'm talking about crying. Click here to read more.

Send in the Clowns

2011-09-07T21:13:00.004-05:00

Today on Facebook, I'm paying tribute to someone who was an influence on me during my formative, high school years. Click here to read more.

Complimentary

2011-08-31T21:45:00.002-05:00

So, most of you Cyber Bears know (either because I've mentioned it here or because you see me sweating it out at the gym) I've been working out with a trainer for about...meh...let's call it 7 months now. It's an expense that, for a one income family on a budget, I know sounds extravagant. Don't think me extravagant. I got a "deal" and I pinch and scrimp other places.

Why?

Well, several reasons. One, I was noticing that just running wasn't cutting it for me anymore. I was running more miles and still not burning calories like I wanted. Two, I knew that in order to improve my running, I needed to put some effort in on strength training and, um, I didn't know a thing about strength training. And three, I needed a little spark put back in my workout romance...metaphorically speaking.

So, I got a trainer and couldn't move for literally 3 months. Apparently, my muscles had been in hibernation for about..oh...26 years. It was painful with a capital P. There were days that the first step out of the bed brought me to my knees. I was shocked that my legs could ever be sore considering all the marathons I run. Ha. What did I know. Apparently running marathons uses only about 10% of the eight billion muscles you have in your legs (oh, and derriere!).

And I am paying for this, Cyber Bears.

But I finally started feeling really good. Stronger. More confident. It's been perfect for me, the bear who has some serious body image issues. I L.O.V.E. working out with a trainer. I haven't lost any weight but the good news is, since I feel so good, I'm not as concerned about the scale.

But that totally isn't my story...That was back story. Sorry.

So, I work out together with a bear friend who is also a runner. Wait, no. SHE is a runner. I'm a recreational jogger. SHE has qualified for The Boston Marathon. I've qualified to watch it. SHE is a rock star. I'm a groupie. It's great working out with her because she pushes me to do my best while I make her look good (and laugh). Quid pro quo, baby.

Anyhoo.....the point of my story...

So today we are working out - doing a series that involved sit ups. (Which, by the way, I'm bad at. I've tried to explain to the trainer that I was born without abdominal muscles, but he doesn't seem to believe me.) Suddenly, this lady shows up at our feet and starts talking to us.

It goes something like this:

Lady: {Looking at both of us} Y'all look SO great!

Us: Why, thanks!

Lady: Seriously! I've been watching y'all since you started working out with this trainer. And y'all look great. {Looking at my training partner} Well, you already looked great. {Now looking DIRECTLY AT ME} but you, well, you really look so much better!

Y'all.

I tried to take it as a compliment. I really did. Which lasted a total of about 4.5 seconds. And then I took my sniffly, trying-not-to-cry, totally offended self to the bathroom tout de suite for a little "refreshing."

I'm over it now. But in the moment? Yeah. Not so much. I know she meant well. But, well, sometimes it's just better to think things versus actually saying them out loud.

Don't you think?

Topsy Turvy

2011-08-24T07:58:00.006-05:00

Who knew that upending this:

Would upend me?

I'll be honest, Cyber Bears. This one caught me off guard. (And we all know how much I love being unprepared...)

Struggling today to get my arms around no longer having a cub in a crib:

Now, I'm sure that soon enough the first three-year-old-fit of the day will turn me right side up.

But, until then I might just be a little topsy turvy.

Sigh.

It's my (birthday) party...

2011-08-23T10:45:00.004-05:00

And I'll (t)ry if I want to:

(t)ry if I want to:

You would (t)ry too if this happened to you...

Happy 3rd Birthday Sugar Bear!

Little did I know 3 years ago today, while I was enjoying a fabulous cup of coffee on a very quiet morning, that you would change my day forever. I remember it like it was yesterday!

You bring joy, vitality, and tons of spunk to our den. We love you dearly and are so grateful that God chose to bless us with you. We can already tell that three is going to be a year full of challenges and growth with you. You are likely to continue to surprise us often and charm us with your precious eyes and smile.

Looking forward to it all.

Love,

Mama Bear, Papa Bear & Brother Bear

Flying...

2011-08-22T13:54:00.005-05:00

Today I sent Brother Bear off to 2nd grade. Seems like just yesterday I wrote this post and this one too...

Sigh.

Time sure does fly!

Want to know the difference between a Kindergarten Bear Cub and a Second Grade Bear Cub?

A kindergarten bear cub lets you join him on the walk into class and doesn't blink as you take one zillion and one pictures.

A second grade bear cub has this conversation as you drive up to the school:

Brother Bear: Mama Bear, why are you parking the car?

Mama Bear: Uh, because I'm going in with you?

Brother Bear: You're walking in with me???

Sniff. Sniff. Sniff.

I want my kindergarten bear cub back...

Transition

2011-08-17T21:42:00.005-05:00

Today, I'm talking about transition and one of my favorite poems. You might like what you read (98 and 3/4 percent guaranteed). Click here to read more.

Therapeutic

2011-08-17T14:55:00.005-05:00

While the Swagger Wagon is in the repair shop, I have a pretty pimped out (albeit, temporary) ride:

Brother Bear thinks it's the ultimate in coolness. I, on the other hand, am too overwhelmed by the smell of men's cologne (that was apparently POURED in the back seat) to think whether I like my ~~undercover cop car~~ rental car. I'm pretty certain that Brother Bear is praying the Swagger Wagon isn't fixed by the first day of school so he can arrive in the carpool line in style.

Due overwhelming stress of my car being violated in such a horrific manner, I've been forced into intensive therapy. I'm currently attending sessions daily. It's a unique form of therapy created by a pioneer in the field, Betty Crocker.

It's working wonders, as you can see. This sessions was S'mores Brownies. It was life changing. I really think I broke through some tough barriers. Evidenced by my falling into a ~~sugar coma~~ serious nap after said session. (Note unique placement of S'more Brownie next to measuring scale. Rest assured, no brownies were weighed-in during this session)

On a completely unrelated note, I cannot fit into any of my clothing.

Ahem.

My therapy assistant:

I think I can overcome just about anything with that smile.

Theft Deterrent System

2011-08-10T14:01:00.001-05:00

I'm trying out a new Theft Deterrent System in the Swagger Wagon.

Whadda ya think?

Lemonade Punch

2011-08-09T07:32:00.001-05:00

"When life gives you lemons, make lemonade" - Dale Carnegie

So the Swagger Wagon was broken into yesterday.

I know.

Before we go throwin' a lot of stones we must first, stop, turn around, and then HIT ME ON THE HEAD WITH THE STONES! Because I, now known as "THE MORON," left my purse in the car.

I know.

"But, officer bear, I was late for my training appointment and my 3 year old bear cub was throwing a gigantic fit...and I just...FORGOT!" Yes, those are the words I said. I then might possibly have said, "Please save the lecture. Because we all know my parent bears are going to give it to me as well."

I know.

But this post isn't about my busted window and jimmied lock, or my stolen purse, or wallet, or credit card, or debit card, or drivers license, or zoo membership card, or gift card to favorite restaurant, or - egads - my frequent eater card to favorite restaurant (sob). Because all those things are replaceable. My cubs? Not so much. And me and mine are safe tonight (a lil' sweaty from the open air ride, but SAFE).

I know.

No, this post is about lemonade. Or, making some. Or, something like that.

See, today, I learned that you can stew about something and get all grumpy and such, OR, you can just take it as one of life's lessons and move along your merry way. I'm opting for the latter.

I know.

So, please enjoy a few sips of lemonade with me.

As I was sitting in the gym lobby, totally flustered, trying to deal with gym personnel, Papa Bear on the phone, and Sugar Bear bouncing off the walls of the lobby, Sugar Bear asked for something to drink. I told her I couldn't buy her a drink because, well, I had nothing but my car keys and cell phone (took it with me to the gym!). Enter sweet lady that, while I was talking with Papa Bear, took Sugar Bear over to the vending machine, asked her what her favorite color was, and then bought her the corresponding color drink.

I know.

So, apparently, having a missing driver's side window in your car creates wonderful opportunities for stop light conversations as well. Who would have thunk? Not me, I've been living in my concealed car for too long, Cyber Bears! Lemonade! You see, if not for having my car broken into, I would have never had the following lovely conversation while stopped at red light this evening.

Mama Bear: {Sitting at light singing and rocking with Brother Bear}

Nice Female Passenger Bear in Car Next to Me: Hey! What you listenin' to?

Mama Bear: {Is she talking to me? Oh, yeah, I don't have a window anymore. She must be talking to me} Me? Oh, just a little Beyonce! "All the Single Ladies"!

Nice Female Passenger Bear in Car Next to Me: You like Beyonce?

Mama Bear: Why, yes! I do!

Nice Female Passenger Bear in Car Next to Me: I do too!

Mama Bear: {turns up louder, so neigh-bear can hear, leans out window conspiritor-ally} My 7 year old cub likes it too!

Nice Female Passenger Bear in Car Next to Me: So, how long you been married?

Mama Bear: {Hmm..that's an odd question!} Fourteen years!

Nice Female Passenger Bear in Car Next to Me: {as light starts to turn green} Well, you tell your wife hello from me!

Mama Bear: {Sitting at light with mouth agape} Oof!

I know.

Now, granted, I was unshowered, still in my workout clothes (I had, at least, changed out of my seriously sweaty shirt) and hat, and no makeup (it was a CRAZY day, what can I say?), and the short hair gives me a serious disadvantage. But, I was wearing "hip" only-for-females-sunglasses! Couldn't she see? Seriously. Of all the days to be mistaken for a male bear? Sigh.

Cyber Bears, does this look like a male bear to you?

Looks more like someone who needs a stiff drink. Preferably lemonade flavored.

I know.

Announcing.....

2011-08-08T07:30:00.001-05:00

"Team Four Bears"

We are so thrilled to announce that Brother Bear will be representing Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children (TSRHC) as a Patient Champion at the 20011 MetroPCS White Rock Marathon on December 4^th!

Most of you know that Brother Bear has been a patient at TSRHC since 2006 for Idiopathic Toe Walking and had surgery there in 2010. This hospital treats some of Texas’ most difficult and challenging pediatric orthopedic issues. But, did you know they do it all without charging their patients a single dime? That’s right! They conduct appointments, perform surgeries, make braces and prosthetic limbs and don’t expect any payment from their patients!

Since Brother Bear became a patient, our family has been discussing ways that we can give back to and support TSRHC. When TSRHC contacted us about this opportunity, we knew that this was PERFECT for our family! Seriously, support TSRHC through a marathon? This was made for us!

As a Patient Champion, Brother Bear will participate in various marathon media activities, helping to put “a face” to the patients of TSRHC. On race day, he’ll be at the start/finish line cheering on the runners too! TSRHC is the sole beneficiary of The MetroPCS White Rock Marathon. Last year The MetroPCS White Rock Marathon donated $560,000 to TSRHC! That’s the largest single check donation in the hospital’s history! Awesome, right?

This year, The MetroPCS White Rock Marathon is hoping to raise $1,000,000 for TSRHC! We are thrilled to be a part of this record-breaking year.

As a part of this effort, we are raising funds for TSRHC. We’ve named our Team, “Team Four Bears” and we’ve set our fundraising goal at $5,000. Will you help us reach it? No amount is too small. Just follow this link to our fundraising page.

Another way our family is getting involved is through running The MetroPCS White Rock Marathon! Mama and Papa Bear will BOTH be running the race this year (Papa Bear is running Lucky #13 and hoping for enough speed to cross the start line again in Hopkinton, Massachusetts! Mama Bear is running #14 and vows to beat her PR from last year – no matter the cost!).

Please know that there are many other ways you can support TSRHC through The Metro PCS White Rock Marathon besides donating money! You can:

Run the Rock! That’s right! A portion of every runner’s entry fee goes to TSRHC. The more runners, the more $ donated. Papa Bear and I will be the first to tell you that running 26.2 will change your life. But you can also run a Half Marathon or the Marathon Relay (26.2 divided up into 5 portions). Get a team together! Run for Brother Bear! Run for another patient! Run for yourself! Just do it!
Volunteer! The Marathon needs over 3,000 volunteers to make this race happen and it doesn’t cost you a dime! Looking for a volunteer opportunity? Our church, Wilshire Baptist Church, operates one of the many essential aid stations along the route. You can volunteer there!
Cheer! What better way to support us than with your moral support? We’d love to see you along the route, or you can join Brother Bear and create a “Team Four Bears” cheering section at the start/finish line!
Tell your friends! Please, let your friends know about TSRHC and what a difference they are making in the lives of children across the State of Texas! Spread the word. Light a fire. Make a difference.

Stay tuned over the next few months for updates on our fundraising and training efforts as well other fun information too.

Thank you for taking time to read this. Even more, thank you for being a part of our family’s support network! We couldn’t do it without you.

Most Likely To Succeed

2011-08-04T07:56:00.007-05:00

This was a hard post to both process and write. But it desperately needed to be done. Do you ever wonder if you are a good friend? Me too. A recent event made me particularly aware of my shortcomings, so I wrote about it. Am now (trying to be) brave enough to post it on Facebook. Click here to read more.

Changes...

2011-07-30T10:47:00.002-05:00

Okay. So I was trying to make a few small changes to the blog and, par for the course, got totally overwhelmed with the cyber options (oh, the options!), and clicking (oh, the clicking!) and then realized I couldn't go back (uh oh! the no-backy-button!). And, well, now we have this.

Cyberbears, if you know me, you know I don't like change. So this is killing me.

Hope it isn't killing you.

Thanks for bearing with me.

Seeing the Forest

2011-07-28T07:53:00.003-05:00

Today on Facebook, I'm talking about being able to "see the forest." Click here to read more.

Hot Topics

2011-07-27T07:32:00.003-05:00

A conversation in the car yesterday:

Brother Bear: Mama Bear, is there a law about when you can date?

Mama Bear: {Blink. Blink.} Huh?

Brother Bear: Is there a law that says when you are old enough to date?

Mama Bear: {TELL HIM YES! TELL HIM IT'S 21. OR 31!} Well, no, there isn't honey. It is actually Mama and Papa Bear who will decide this. The age when you can date will be based on whether we think you are mature enough, and that is something we will have to watch and decide when you are a little older {Oh, and picking your boogers and eating them? Not working in your favor regarding maturity...}. But, you know how sometimes you tell me, "So-and-so's Mama Bear let's them do X?" Well, it's going to be that way with dating. Some of your bear cub friends may be able to date before you. But their parent bears are deciding for them, and we will be deciding for you and Sugar Bear {NEVER}. Each family decides the right time based on what is right for their cubs and their family. Make sense?

Brother Bear: Yeah. Sure. I just was watching a show and the Mama Bear said, "You aren't old enough to date" so I figured there was a law or something.

Mama Bear: {Ooof. No more of that show} {I shoulda said there was a law. WHY didn't I say there was a law???} Alrighty then. Consider yourself informed now!

Cyberbears, this cub is SEVEN.

God help me.

Shew-eee!

2011-07-25T06:33:00.001-05:00

My tongue is draggin' Cyberbears!

We just returned from a delightful and delirious 3 week family vacation. Twenty-four hundred miles logged on the Swagger Wagon for two weeks in The Land of the Bears, and one week at "The Most Magical Place on Earth."

After this incredibly bi-polar vacation, I've decided there are 2 types of bears in this world: National Park type bears and Amusement Park bears.

Any guesses which one I am?

Possible titles for this photo:

"The things we do for our bear cubs"
"I just thought I was a cool mom"
"I want my money back"
"Do they sell undies in the gift shop?"

(Feel free to add your own in the comments section. Also feel free to mock me. I deserve it.)

Needless to say, much fun was had by all (well, except when I was riding those rides), and we certainly enjoyed the time together no matter what park we were in.

Here's hoping you've enjoyed the month of July. Hoping to be back in the swing of things as soon as I finish the laundry and clean out the van.

Which, from the looks of it, should be shortly before school starts.

Freedom

2011-07-07T17:15:00.000-05:00

This week on Facebook, I'm talking about Freedom. Click here to read more.

Surrender

2011-06-30T06:50:00.006-05:00

Today on Facebook, I'm talking about surrender. And fear. Click here to read more.

Honestly?

2011-06-23T08:24:00.005-05:00

Today on Facebook, I'm talking honestly about honesty. Want to hear the truth? Click here to read more.

My field trip

2011-06-16T12:36:00.000-05:00

Curious where I've been this week? I've been on a Field Trip of Faith! Click here to read more about my journey (and, subsequently, why this blog has been so quiet!).

Parent Blessings

2011-06-08T22:56:00.003-05:00

(Yours Truly, Mama Bear, the day my Parent Bears welcomed me to their Den)

Today on Facebook, I'm talking about the blessings of Parent Bears. Specifically my own. Click here to read more.

Need I say more?

2011-06-07T08:23:00.003-05:00

Let's just say the transition to summer isn't just about them...

Fashionist-ahhh Friday!

2011-06-03T06:22:00.000-05:00

Sorry I've been less than post-full this week. We had a very busy weekend. And, in case you didn't know, school ended yesterday. Of course, since it was the last week of school we had to cram 462 different parties, events, meetings, etc., etc., etc. into 3 teeny tiny days. And then either a large furry yellow animal took up residence in my sinuses, or I got a sinus infection. The jury is still out.

Fun times.

So, It's Friday and Schoooool's Out For Summer! (Sorry, couldn't resist.) That means it is time for another exciting week of fashion with our resident Fashionist-ahhh, Sugar Bear.

I'd like to say I took tons of pictures of her fabulousness this week. But, um, I didn't. Instead, I made love to my Sinus Rinse twice a day and culled through the eight million pages of scholarly work Brother Bear brought home every day.

But I did rise from my deathbed to take one picture this week. And it was worth it. Without further adieu, Cyberbears, I bring you Fashionist-ahhh Friday meets Summer:

Going to a pool-sleepover, you ask?

Why no, Cyberbears. Just heading out to pick up Brother Bear from school.

In all honesty, friends, this outfit is pretty genius.

I mean, you never know when a monsoon and nap time are going to collide and cause ultimate destruction. It's best to be prepared....just in case.

And prepared, she is.

So, that's about it for Fashionist-ahhh Friday. I hope to see you next week. As soon as I evict the furry animal. Or die. Whichever comes first.

A Sinner's Prayer

2011-06-02T18:37:00.000-05:00

Today on Facebook, I've written and (more importantly) am praying a Sinner's Prayer. Would you like to join me? Just click here.

How was your day?

2011-05-25T06:01:00.000-05:00

Well, we spent the afternoon at the ER getting this rock:

extricated from Brother Bear's forehead and then having him stitched back together. Seems he took a "bit of a tumble" at school. Ya think?

Made it home before the crazy storms hit the area. Then spent the better part of the rest of the evening in our bathroom wearing bicycle helmets trying to convince a hopped-up-on-adreneline-bear cub that we weren't going to die.

And then I ate chocolate.

Would you expect anything less?

"Rest" Time

2011-05-24T08:53:00.002-05:00

This is what I found when I went to retrieve Sugar Bear from ~~solitary confinement~~ rest time yesterday:

That's her laundry basket. It seems she was somehow able, while still in the crib, get the laundry basket up off the floor and into her crib. She then proceeded to have a party with said laundry basket whilst she was supposed to be resting.

Sigh. Rest time is wasted on young cubs.

Bear cub see,

2011-05-23T12:47:00.003-05:00

Bear cub do:

I just wish I could say she's only picking up on his GOOD habits!

Fashionist-ahhh Friday!

2011-05-20T08:49:00.003-05:00

End of Times Edition

The World is supposed to end tomorrow and I still have so much to do.

In honor of The End of Times, Sugar Bear really put it all on the table this week. Just one last outfit before the end. One. Single. Outfit. The Outfit To End All Outfits:

Need I say more?

Job well done, Sugar Bear. Job well done.

(Apparently this outfit is also an attempt to honor another fabulous Fashionist-ahhh: Charo)

Hope to see you all back next week for more Fashionist-ahhh Fun.

In case of rapture, however, this blog will be unmanned.

Terrible Twos

2011-05-19T17:42:00.000-05:00

Today on Facebook, I'm learning lessons about Terrible Twos and Toddler Tantrums. Titillated? Click here to read more.

Math Facts

2011-05-19T06:42:00.001-05:00

(could likely)

Wild, Wild, Wild Kratts!

2011-05-18T07:38:00.003-05:00

Dear PBS and the Creators of Wild Kratts:

Hello. My name is Mama Bear and I am the mother of two young cubs, Brother Bear and Sugar Bear. They love your new show, Wild Kratts. And by "love it" I mean that you have successfully created the equivalent of crack cocaine for the under 10 sector of my den.

Thank you.

At this juncture, I would like to point out something important that may not yet be on your radar screen - being that you guys are like, rock stars and all. I just thought you guys might want to know that summer officially starts in a mere eleven more days. (Wow! Who knew writing that sentence could actually cause my body to instantaneously break out in a sweat?) Again, I know you guys are busy and all, what with your animals and, oh, getting Congress to fund your network and such. But I think it's important to know that we are ~~girding our loins~~ anxiously preparing for the ~~onslaught~~ joy of summer.

As we make these preparations, "we" are a bit concerned about your show. It seems, dear sirs, that in your haste to create The Show That Will Revive Public Television you forgot one simple thing: making more shows. According to our DVR, you boys have made approximately 6 episodes of Bear Cub Crack. And, while we love those six episodes, I'm afraid that repeating said six episodes for a mere 12 weeks straight might possibly be too much for our family (read: me).

Again, I hate to impose as I know you are busy corporate zoologists. But, if you have a chance in the next - say - eleven days, it would be great if you could create a few more episodes. We're only looking for about sixty or so more. A mere trifle in broadcasting terms, I'm sure.

If you could do so, we would be eternally grateful and would commit to watching only PBS shows for the next 50 years (or until PBS becomes defunct...whichever comes first) and maybe even throwing a few extra bucks your way (only if we get a free coffee mug or Wild Kratts t-shirt out of the deal of course).

Yours Truly,

Mama Bear

P.S. While you are at it, can you do something about that theme song?

A decorator's touch

2011-05-17T07:10:00.001-05:00

After the Great Poo Debacle of 2011 (also known as "The Time When The Family Pet Used One of His Lives"), we were forced to dispose of our area rug.

Being that I am not the decorating type, I called in a professional. That's right, Cyberbears, I hired me a decorator (cue "Jefferson's theme song).

I told her that we needed a new area rug (duh). I said it needed to:

go with our decor
fit our lifestyle
be easy to clean (lest the devil unleash himself in my dog's bowels again)
be cheap

Ummm.

Maybe I should revise my list.

Two can play...

2011-05-16T07:52:00.001-05:00

OH YES I DID.

Fashionist-ahhh Friday!

2011-05-13T12:26:00.009-05:00

Boy, a week goes by really fast, doesn't it? Our resident Fashionist-ahhh, Sugar Bear, is ready to show you a thing or two again this week.

The question is: are you ready?

Let's get rolling...

Dancer Chic - why wear one tutu when you can wear two?

She insisted that her shoes were "her old tap shoes (?)." In reality? They are her "Sunday Shoes" that she will wear EVERY OTHER DAY but Sunday.

This is the look I saw when I picked her up from Sunday School. Because, you know, nothing says "Happy Mother's Day" quite like a 2 year old cub dressed as a ladybug.

Long sleeve shirt, short-shorts, and winter boots.

Be careful Cyberbears - this is a look not many could pull off.

Please notice the hair bow. It seems that our little Fashionist-ahhh has: 1) figured out how to reach her bows and 2) "match" her bows to her outfit.

Sigh.

Well now. This outfit just leaves me speechless.

You too?

It's like the color wheel threw up all over her.

And, yet, she can pull it off.

Amazing.

For yet another week, Sugar Bear really outdid herself. I hope you leave here inspired to try something new. Who knows, you might be the next Fashionist-ahhh?

See you back next week for more fun!

Don't let the bed bugs bite!

2011-05-11T08:32:00.001-05:00

Brother Bear and I have an ongoing game of sorts. It all started with a gag about 2 years ago on my Brother Bear. You see, my Brother Bear hates snakes. And my parents had found a real live snake in the bedroom (specifically, under the hide-away bed) that he and his wife would be residing in during Christmas. Needless to say, my Brother Bear was less than pleased about his impending sleeping arrangements.

So, I did what any good little sister bear would do. No, I did not offer to trade sleeping quarters. Instead, I bought a package of fake snakes at the Dollar Store and hid 'em all over the house. Focusing a significant portion of my hiding efforts in or around the bed.

May I insert here that I recognize the fact that I've been living on borrowed time ever since?

Anyhoo. Brother Bear got in on the action and it was lots of fun. For us at least.

Somehow, a few of the fake snakes made it home with us. And since that time, Brother Bear and I have delighted in placing these fake rubber snakes in hidden spots for the other one to find. He's especially good at it. I crawled into the bed one evening and my foot touched something and I screamed bloody murder and threw back the covers to find a fake snake staring back at me. Brother Bear considers this his crowning glory.

But now it seems the cub has decided to up his game. I headed to bed the other night and lost one year of my life when I discovered this:

(Yes, I do make up my bed everysinglemorningjustlikemymotherbeartaughtme. Why do you ask? And, no, I don't think that bed looks recently napped in. Why? Ahem.)

That little bugger.

I deserve a medal

2011-05-10T11:53:00.006-05:00

On our return trip from Spring Break, I offered to carry some "cargo" that my Sister and Brother-in-Law Bear needed to get to my Mother and Daddy Bear.

Easy enough, right?

Except said "cargo" just happened to include this:

That's right Cyberbears. Six beautiful boxes of Girl Scout Cookies lovingly sold to my Parent Bears by my fabulous niece-cub. All I had to do was survive the 2 day drive back with the boxes intact and then get them to my Parent Bears.

Easy enough, right?

Except, when I returned, I couldn't get my schedule coordinated with my Parent Bears before they left for their spring visit to The Land of The Bears. So I had to keep the cookies until they returned.

I'm on day 54 with those cookies sitting on my hutch, with at least 12 more to go. I actually think they are starting to speak to me. I don't really understand the Samoans, but the Tagalongs and Do Si Dos translate pretty well. I'm pretty sure they are going to miraculously unwrap themselves from the packaging and start dancing on my kitchen table soon.

Oh, the restraint, Cyberbears. It's killing me.

Like I said, I deserve a medal.

Or, at least a merit badge?

Update: HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE NEWEST ADDITION TO THE EXTENDED FOUR BEARS' FAMILY! WE HAVE A NEW BABY BEAR COUSIN AS OF 1:03 P.M. TODAY! She's beautiful! We can't wait to meet the little chubby cub!

Fashionist-ahhh Friday!

2011-05-06T14:13:00.005-05:00

We're baack! It's time again for Fashionist-ahhh Friday! Sorry for the tardy post. Internet has been spotty (read: on for 30 seconds, out for 3 hours) around the den today.

Grrr.

Anyhoo, It was another banner week in the fashion world of Sugar Bear. Let's take a look:

Some might find this outfit rather bland. Until you add the sparkle, that is.

SPARKLES!

Ahhhh! My eyes!

I believe my retinas were burned this day. A vision in hot pink, indeed. Also note Sugar Bear is starting a trend of bringing sleepwear to daytime.

Strawberry Shortcake eat your heart out.

Ah. The coveted Ariel dress (and magic wand).

Earned for doing something very important in the right place. Subsequently back on the hanger now waiting for a repeat performance. But the day she wore it, she was fantabulous. Oh, and, Fashion Tip: Did you know that glitter on these dresses DOES NOT STAY on the dress and instead sticks to every piece of furniture in your house?

Neither did I.

Now I do.

My favorite look for the week!

Contrary to the picture, it was not "Dress Your Toddler Cub Like An Exotic Dancer Day."

Instead, it was our first day of swim lessons and we were so very excited we HAD to wear the suit all morning.

Even to the local family library (seen above).

Even though our lessons were in the afternoon.

Sigh.

(Am I the only one that wants to pinch that tushie?)

That's it from our Fashionist-ahhh Bear this week. Looking forward to bringing you more Fashion Tips next week!

Sending the very best

2011-05-05T10:07:00.003-05:00

Have you sent your Mother's Day card yet? I just did, and it got me to thinking. Read more about it here on Facebook.

Picking yourself up...

2011-05-04T09:02:00.000-05:00

Saw this video last night and was particularly moved by it. Maybe it's because I'm a runner. But then again...

You ever have those days where you find yourself flat on your face and you just want to quit? As a Stay At Home Mama Bear, I have 'em more than I would like to admit.

Take a moment to watch. You'll be glad you did.

What would Walt think?

2011-05-03T08:01:00.000-05:00

On a recent shopping spree to "Bullseye" (a.k.a. "The Store Where I Go To Spend All Our Hard Earned Money), I happened upon the Disney Dishes aisle (A mistake I'll never make again as it ended up costing me $5 for a Princess Fork & Spoon. Sigh.). And that's when I saw this:

Seriously. SO. DISTURBING. I don't even have words.

Please, someone, tell me WHAT they were thinking? Because I'm guessing that right about now, Mr. Walt is rolling over in his grave.

A Peek....

2011-05-02T08:01:00.000-05:00

at our morning breakfast routine:

What? This isn't normal?

Fashionist-ahhh Friday!

2011-04-29T09:50:00.002-05:00

Another banner week in the Four Bear's Den with little miss Sugar Bear the Fashionista. Let's get right down to it!

Easter Edition. The key to keeping the peace on Easter? Compromise. Mama Bear chose the dress, Sugar Bear chose the shoes. Win-win.

Sort of.

Her first field trip with Brother Bear and the "big cubs." Clearly, she's made some strides in the matching department. I like how she went for cute and comfortable. Genius.

Great outfit, horrible photo. Kind of a pixie/hippie look going on here. I think this look will be the rage this summer. Sparkly shoes give it just the right punch.

Clearly her mood goes with the outfit. Apparently the paparazzi was on Sugar Bear's last nerve this day. I could pretty much say the same thing about that outfit...

She out did herself here, Cyberbears. Yes, that's a bathing suit and sweat pants, why do you ask? Yes, we are at the mall. Problem? Nope. Papa Bear and I held our heads high. Especially when she said she needed to "do her exercises" and began doing jumping jacks in the middle of the mall.

Jane Fonda, eat your heart out.

That's all for Fashionist-ahhh Friday. Happy Dressing until we meet again!

Easter People

2011-04-28T17:34:00.000-05:00

So, I've decided to be an Easter Person. Intrigued? Read more about it on Facebook. Just click here.

A Conversation in two parts

2011-04-27T09:37:00.001-05:00

One WITH filter. One WITHOUT.

Personal Bear Trainer: Okay. Now we're going to do this exercise. (Imagine an incredibly fit, barely twenty something, cub demonstrating an exercise that involves a significant amount of jumping). If this exercise makes you need to use the bathroom too bad, we'll quit.

Filter Switches to ON.

Mama Bear: Oh. Okay. (Then does said exercises)

-------------------------------

Filter Switched in OFF position.

Mama Bear: Huh? Just HOW old do you think I am? Do I look like someone that pees herself? Huh, do I? Look around the room, buddy. I'm younger than most of the people around here by a GOOD decade or two. No tinkle problems here buddy. No-sir-ee. I have FULL bladder control thankyouverymuch. In fact, I'm going to do twenty more of these just to prove to you how continent I am. Ask me if I pee my pants, nuh-uh. What has this world gone to. Do I really look that old? Huh? Seriously, I'm making that appointment with the plastic surgeon sooner versus later. Humph. The nerve. (Then does said exercises)

Lucky for EVERYONE it was one of those very rare moments where the filter was actually ON.

An Inconvenient Truth

2011-04-26T08:02:00.000-05:00

Every morning when I'm turning out lights and heading out, I discover this in the cubs' bathroom:

(I know, I know. But you really did need a visual. I promise.)

It seems that Brother Bear's school is teaching them all sorts of ways to "Be Green" and save the environment. Number one being, "If it's yellow - let it mellow. If it's brown, flush it down."

He INSITS that he's saving the earth. Which, I'm sure he is. But this isn't about the earth, now, is it? It's about me. And my sense of cleanliness. And my desire NOT to look at a toilet full o' pee every time I walk into a bathroom. Ick.

So, being the good, earthly, mother that I am, I let it mellow.....

And as soon as he's gone, I race back to the bathroom and flush that sucker just as fast as my furry paws will let me.

I'll save the earth another way thankyouverymuch.

Marital Harmony

2011-04-25T07:32:00.000-05:00

Some couples fight over this:

Papa Bear and I? We fight over this:

That's right. Runner's World Magazine is a hot commodity in this Den. Wen currently hold one subscription to this magazine. (and by "we" I really mean ME. I DO. IT HAS MY NAME ON IT.) As soon as the new copy hits our mailbox, it's all out war. I try to get through it during the day while Papa Bear is at work, but somehow I get distracted (I don't know how).

When Papa bear spies it? Fahgettaboutit. That thing disappears faster than Pretzel M&Ms. I cannot figure out where he's hiding it, but it drives me crazy. CA-RAY-ZEE.

Most of you probably think he's scouring up on the latest and greatest running tips. Me? I know better. He's looking to see if this miracle happens again:

(Papa Bear - ain't he handsome? - in a November 2009 Runner's World Magazine add for The Natural State)

Don't let him fool you.

He is risen!

2011-04-24T15:42:00.002-05:00

The angel said to the women, "Do not be afraid, for I know that you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He is not here; he has risen, just as he said."

Matthew 28: 5-6

He is risen indeed!

Fashionist-ahhh Friday!

2011-04-22T07:39:00.000-05:00

Back for more fashion fun. Let's see what our ~~diva~~ fashionista has been up to this week:

There's a saying about snakes in this territory:

"Red & Yellow, kill a fellow"

For this outfit, we say

"Red & Yellow & Hello Kitty, Runway City"

Backwards was another big trend this week.

Notice the unique, yet powerful, mix of colors and patterns.

Nothing goes better with capris than an nice, utilitarian boot.

Emphasizing the single color scheme again with pink on pink. Notice choice of backward shirt. I think we'll see this during Fashion Week. Just remember, it all started here.

These two are just to prove to you that, "NO! I DO NOT NEED YOUR HELP!!!"

"REALLY! I DON'T NEED IT!!"

(Also note the perfect cure-all for a tummy ache used by fashionistas 'round the world: band aid)

I'm posting this one simply for the socks. First they lovingly remind me of My Daddy Bear (whose dressing skillz are worthy of their own blog). But most important, the selection of these socks ~~sucked the life out of~~ took 1 whole hour of my day and drained pretty much all of my patience for said day.

Well, that's it for this week's edition of Fashionist-ahhh Friday. See you next week! Until then, Happy Dressing!

Maundy Thursday

2011-04-21T08:28:00.005-05:00

Today is Maundy Thursday and I'm trying to pause and ponder. Click here to take a moment with me.

Please don't tell my trainer...

2011-04-20T10:01:00.000-05:00

...I'm in love with a bag of potato chips. Seriously. The other day the store was having a BOGO on Kettle Chips**, plus I had a coupon which made the chips virtually free. And, since I like virtually free almost as much as I like for real free, I decided to buy me some Kettle Chips.

Upon reaching the chip aisle, I was forced to make a serious, life changing selection: which flavor to buy. Perhaps I was feeling wild and crazy or maybe it was one of those days (Girls, you get my drift. Boys, keep moving...), but Jalapeno chips just sounded good.

I'm here to tell you that they did not disappoint. Mmm, mmm! Delicious! Just the right amount of salty, spicy, and fried-y. If they weren't so dang spicy, I probably would have eaten the whole bag in one sitting. I do not jest. The spice is best followed up with a good, healthy serving of these.

Here's hoping my Bear Trainer doesn't get a whiff of these on Monday.

But it might just be worth it...

** THIS IS NOT A PAID ENDORSEMENT. I JUST LOVE FOOD ALMOST AS MUCH AS I LOVE BREATHING.

Precious moments

2011-04-19T08:03:00.000-05:00

Sugar Bear and I had a "nail painting" party the other day:

When she looked at her fingers, literally gasped and said, "Oh, Mama Bear! Dey are bootie-full!" I almost died.

Who knew this tom-boy Mama Bear would have so much fun raising a girly-girl bear cub?

What's on your windowsill?

2011-04-18T08:32:00.002-05:00

Does your kitchen windowsill look like this?

Mine always ends up being a menagerie of random things. I try to keep it organized, but it seems that this is the place-where-all-things-I-don't-know-where-they-should-go-at-the-moment go. Sigh.

Currently, you see:

Herbes de Provence (decorative) - this is one of the few things that is actually supposed to be there.
Ring holder - my Big Brother Bear and Sister-In-Law-Bear got that for me. I take my rings off when I'm in the kitchen. They just about stroked out when they saw me setting them on the windowsill. The elephant also serves as a reminder to pray for the orphans in Kenya.
Lotion. Where else should I put it?
Candle. Attempt to mitigate horrific smell permeating through house.
Nail polish. Just had a nail painting party with Sugar Bear. Apparently, I didn't get around to putting it away.
Two original "masterpieces" in clay by Brother Bear. They'll stay.
Glass milk jug. Had flowers in it. Now they don't. Need to put in more flowers or put it away. Will likely stay there (empty) for months.
Candle. Another attempt at removing smell (see above).
Handprint of Brother Bear when he was TWO. I really need to find a place for that.
Cross and prayer beads. One of the other things that is always supposed to be there. A reminder to pray for specific things.

Please tell me I'm not the only one that has a kitchen windowsill (or some other spot) in their den that serves as a collection point for all things random?

So, what about you? What's on your windowsill?

Fashionist-ahhh Friday!

2011-04-15T07:45:00.001-05:00

Has it been a week already? Then it's time for more fun with

Fashionist-ahh Friday!

Straight from the runways in Paris, this is what Sugar Bear has been up to (fashion wise) this week:

No white shoes before Easter? That is so last season, Cyberbears! And whoever said a girl cub can't wear short skirts to church is just wrong. Healthcare worker's hosiery with sandals? Genius.

Monochromatic was a real theme this day. It was pink-on-pink-on-pink. But every fashionista knows to add a touch of color and sparkle. Thus, the purple socks and sparkly shoes.

Taking yard work style to a new level with the Hello Kitty house shoes.

"Sigh. Jeggings bore me, Mother Bear. Let's try something different. Like, say, wearing them backwards!" Only toddler behinds can pull this off, folks.

(Can we all take a moment in this picture and mourn the loss of that gorgeous rug? Sniff, sniff)

They may not admit it, but every Fashionista has an inner princess. Sugar Bear isn't afraid to flaunt it.

This may not look like fashion genius at first. But look a little closer....

That's right. FIVE layers in one outfit. Also known as the "hobo" look. So chic!

And finally, the piece de resistance for this week. We call it, "High Fashion meets a Prison Cell." Have you ever seen stripes look so good? Of course, the shirt on backwards and the red shoes? Lady Gaga, watch out!

That just about wraps up this week in Fashion News. Look forward to seeing you all next week. Who knows what is in store!

Family Heirloom

2011-04-13T15:55:00.004-05:00

Today on Facebook I'm talking about my dining room table. Click here to read more.

Endangered Species

2011-04-13T07:04:00.000-05:00

Does this look like an animal on the Endangered Species list? Does he look repentant at all? Does he look like he feels bad? Maybe a little guilty for having a diarrhea-fest all over our living room - not once, not twice, but on THREE DIFFERENT occasions (months & weeks apart)? Do you think he's remorseful at all over the fact that we are forced to get a new area rug? Do you think he's a little embarrassed that after a $150 vet visit all the vet could diagnose was, "I think he just ate something bad..." Huh? Does he?

I didn't think so either.

This dog doesn't know how good he's got it.

Conversations you never thought you'd have...

2011-04-12T11:32:00.000-05:00

Those of us that are Mama and Papa Bears know it when it happens. That moment when something comes out of your mouth and then you think one of two things:

1. "Oh my God, I just became my Mother (Papa) Bear!!"

2. "Did I just actually have this conversation???"

You know you've been there.

(Warning, the rest of this post involves toilet talk. Feel free to walk away now. I warned you.)

Recently, I was dealing with Brother Bear's laundry. Did you know that this kid is big enough to have his own load of laundry now? There's another whole post where I weep about that. But for now, let's get back to laundry.

As I'm sorting the laundry, I notice a pair of skivvies that, well, have some remnants. (I WARNED YOU... LOOK AWAY NOW IF YOU DIDN'T BELIEVE ME BEFORE!) I'm not talking about your garden variety skid marks Cyberbears. I'm talking leftovers. I'm talking throw-them-in-the-trash-not-enough-oxi-clean-in-this-world kinda leftovers.

Now, I may or may not have been going on week 2 of Papa Bear traveling for work. And I may, or may not have been in a mood. But this is the conversation that followed my discovery:

Mama Bear: BROTHER BEAR!! THIS IS DISGUSTING!!! DID YOU EVEN TRY TO WIPE?

Brother Bear: {begins whistling and rolling his eyes like he doesn't know what I'm talking about - it's his new shtick. grrrr.}

Mama Bear: Seriously, Brother Bear, did you wipe your bottom when you finished? Because, from what I'm seeing, it certainly doesn't look like it!

Brother Bear: Well, the class was going to leave me, Mama Bear!

Mama Bear: What?

Brother Bear: The class was all finished, and they were going to go back to class....without me!

Mama Bear: Brother Bear, they were headed back to the classroom. And your classroom is 20 feet from the bathroom. Would it really have been that bad to take the extra 30 seconds to wipe?

Brother Bear: Well, no... But I was afraid I was going to clog up the toilet!!

Mama Bear: Brother Bear, if my options are: you are going to clog the toilet, OR you are going to come home with another pair of skivvies looking like this, know that my preferred option is for you to CLOG THE TOILET. No matter WHAT it takes, clean your derriere cub!

And, that, my Cyberbears, is a perfect example of conversations you never thought you'd have.

You are welcome.

Values

2011-04-11T09:01:00.002-05:00

I shall overlook the fact that basic sustenance was at the BOTTOM of the list. Why?

Because, according to Brother Bear, his family is more valuable that the Wii. That's right, Cyberbears, MAMA BEAR TRUMPS THE Wii! Uh uh! Oh yeah! I'm the winner! Uh huh! (imagine me doing the victory dance)

Clearly we are teaching this cub well. Expect my parenting book sometime in Summer of 2012.

Fashionist-ahhh Friday!

2011-04-08T08:30:00.000-05:00

A new - perhaps, regular? (gulp) - installment here at the Den (part of my Spring Cleaning attempt):

Fashionist-ahhh Friday!

This all stems from Sugar Bears newest obsession. You see, Sugar Bear is 2.5 going on 15. She wants to do everything herself, including selecting her wardrobe and dressing herself. This is new to me (for this age). Brother Bear didn't give a lick what went on his body. Come to think of it, he generally preferred to just be nekkid. All the time. And when he was forced to be clothed, he didn't have an opinion about it until about a year ago. Sigh. Those were the days.

So, Sugar Bear has started choosing her outfits herself. ALL. BY. HERSELF. I am not allowed near the vicinity unless my help is required and (more importantly) requested. It seems Sugar Bear is a bit of a Fashionista. She loves her some clothes. And accessories. And shoes. And hats. Literally, anything she can put on her body, she does. The control freak in me is fighting desperately with the hippie in me. The hippie is winning. Seriously, I would prefer the cub be able to fully dress herself before the age of 3 than have a well coordinated outfit every day. (Remember, I dressed the other cub until he was almost 6. Been there, done that!)

I began taking pictures recently and sending them to my parents. I decided it my be fun to let you Cyberbears in on the action. Thus, the birth of "Fashionist-ahhh Fridays." I'm hoping to post the pictures of Sugar Bear's outfits for the week each Friday.

Who knows, she might even start a trend in the under five crowd that makes me her a millionaire! (silly bandz anyone?).

Hope you enjoy!

Accessories are the key here. Notice unique use of "bracelet" as arm accessory. Necklace is handmade, one of kind. And, of course, a girl cub can't go anywhere without a good pair of sparkly shoes.

Who knew pink, red, and orange went together so well. What a fashion trailblazer! (Note, the turtleneck was NOT her choice. It was Mama Bear's weather related demand.)

This one shows real fashion skills (and yes, we did leave the house this day!). The layering is unique and the mixing of sumer and winter is, well, breathtaking. The Hello Kitty house shoes and plaid hat? Just plain genius.

Again, note the layering and mixing of seasons. I see a real trend coming with this look.

Come back next week for more fun and fabulous fashion!

Money, Money, Money!

2011-04-07T11:59:00.000-05:00

Do you sometimes feel like a slave to money? Today on Facebook, I'm talking about money, and debt. Interested in what I have to say? Just click here to read more.

Oh, and if you're interested in back Facebook Blogs I didn't post here on the Den. I'll fill you in:

February 17th - Instrumental

February 24th - Succeeding to Fail

March 17th - Coasting

March 24th - Villagers

Happy Reading!

April Showers bring, uh, blogging?

2011-04-06T15:10:00.004-05:00

April? It's April? What the heck happened to March? And, most of February too?!

I recently received several emails questioning my whereabouts on the blog. They might have gone something like this:

"Did you forget how to turn on your computer?"

"Did you move your blog?"

"Blog much?"

Ahem.

Might I suggest some alternate options:

A. Head injury from sledding accident with Brother Bear

B. Hibernation (I am a bear, after all)

C. I gave up blogging for Lent (just because I'm Baptist, doesn't mean I don't participate)

D. I lost my mo-jo for a while, then got sucked away by real life. Then I became completely overwhelmed with the constant, nagging monster in my life named "Failure" (who, by the way, hovers over me ready to pounce at any sign of weakness). Apparently "Failure" told me several things which I believed. Then I kicked "Failure" in his sensitive places and had the courage to sign in again.

Which is more believable to you? Feel free to postulate in the comments section.

Glad to be back. I think. I'm going to do a little "spring cleaning" around the den. Maybe mix it up a bit. I hope those of you who are still around will join me. Because, although I admit to a major crush on Neil Patrick Harris way back when (no judging, please), this isn't a Doogie Howser type journal. I'm looking for interaction here, conversation, opinions, thoughts, feelings.

Suggestions welcome as I go.

Failure not invited.

Finding Time

2011-02-10T08:27:00.004-06:00

Today on Facebook, I am talking about finding time to be still. Do you struggle with this too? I would love your thoughts and suggestions. Click here to read more.

A picture says a thousand words

2011-02-07T07:17:00.003-06:00

I would love to say that this picture comes from one of those hilarious websites. But, alas, this is a picture of yours truly seconds before she landed ON TOP OF Brother Bear. He was not amused. I, on the other hand, almost wet my pants laughing.

It seems as if I have a few things to learn about physics. Because Mama Bear's law of "if you get enough momentum in your shove, they'll go faster" is more like the law of "if you get too much shove in your shove, you'll push the cub right off the sled."

Sigh.

So, like the title of this post says, "A picture says a thousand words." If you were to put a caption on this picture - what would it say? Put your answers in the comments section. (Feel free to be anonymous!)

Work Ethic

2011-02-04T12:35:00.000-06:00

It doesn't break any Child Labor Laws if they ask to do it

RIGHT?