tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87835238265255955792024-02-18T17:37:56.788-08:00Author Jo-Anne Sieppert Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07018220644442505577noreply@blogger.comBlogger33125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8783523826525595579.post-86772018671075166182016-08-07T04:33:00.001-07:002016-08-07T06:49:47.147-07:00The Saskatoon farmWho knew that only 15 minutes away a beautiful hidden world exists. It's like driving into a fairy tale of snow white proportions. I almost expected to see the seven dwarfs show up.<div>From the deer and birds as you drive up, to the beautiful walk through of trees, this place is well worth the visit.</div><div>The berry picking season is short at best here in Alberta, but this year was especially short, 10 days, that's it!! </div><div>Our first attempt hubby and I went on Saturday July 30th, the line up of cars was far too long for my not all that patient hubby, so we turned around, thankful we were on Vacation and planned to go during the week. The hope of no line up and all the berries I could pick keeping my smile on my face.</div><div>Thursday morning we head back to the little heaven hideaway, dressed in my berry picking outfit complete with cowboys boots (ready for the farm) </div><div>We drive right up, no line up our pick of parking spots, nestalgia and excitement building in me. We smile and say good morning to the staff we see, they are friendly. That is until we go into a little store and inquire about the berry picking.</div><div>The lady behind the counter seemed a bit annoyed, wether at us for not knowing the season was already over, or for the fact that the season was in fact already over. Disappointed, but happy to know we could check out the fresh picked produce at the restaurant.</div><div>We picked up some beats, carrots, and potatoes. So not a total bust. And they were delicious!! Is there anything more tasty than carrots right out of the garden? </div><div>We hope to go back again next year, but hopefully we won't miss the season this time! </div><div>I would suggest they pay more attention to their website, maybe keeping it up to date about what's available and such would benefit not only the people looking to go there, but them also. </div><div>Overall, definitely a place for everyone in #yyc to check out! </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07018220644442505577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8783523826525595579.post-78436162765865338922015-10-23T22:18:00.001-07:002015-10-23T22:18:55.326-07:00Author Jo-Anne Sieppert : Nightmare on elm street<a href="http://authorjo-annesieppert.blogspot.com/2015/10/nightmare-on-elm-street.html?spref=bl">Author Jo-Anne Sieppert : Nightmare on elm street</a>: On my search for what's scary I watched Nightmare on elm street, a classic. Or so I am told when talking to other horror movie buffs. I...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07018220644442505577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8783523826525595579.post-74032162985362680362015-10-23T22:16:00.001-07:002015-10-23T22:16:24.255-07:00Nightmare on elm street<div>On my search for what's scary I watched <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Nightmare on elm street, a classic. Or so I am told when talking to other horror movie buffs. I remember enjoying them back in the day, I just don't remember if they were scary then. Well they aren't now.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Much like Poltergeist the effect are terrible. Granted they were great for their time, so this in my opinion makes the movie not stand the test of time. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">The premise is good. Evil guy comes into your dreams and takes you into a nightmare, brilliant! Then enter the special effects, and they over shadow the possibilities.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Now before you get mad and yell about how it was the 80's and the effects were ground breaking and all that, I get it, I really do! I just think there could have been something timeless in this story idea, something that could not just give you nightmares but your children, and your children's children.</span></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">I mean the song, oh my god, chills.</font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">But that's where they end.</font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">"One two Freddie's coming for you,</font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Three four better lock your door,</font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Five six get your crucifix..." Chills! </font></div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07018220644442505577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8783523826525595579.post-13423049550034108692015-10-22T13:25:00.001-07:002015-10-22T13:25:27.227-07:00The fear projectFear<div><br></div><div>Fear is in everyone, we fear the unknown, the consequences, the loss, the fight, and most importantly, fear it's self. </div><div><br></div><div>What makes a story truly terrifying?</div><div>What is it that makes the difference between making someone jump verses making them not be able to sleep?</div><div><br></div><div>Let's find out! </div><div><br></div><div>I'm a huge horror movie fan, but there are so many that are laughable, not at all scary! So I'm going to write my own.</div><div>But first I intend to watch as many as I can, until my brain goes numb. I want to find out what works, what doesn't, and what it is that makes them great.</div><div><br></div><div>Some of the so called "classics" must have something that made them terrifying in their day, but most of them now wouldn't make the cut. Are there any timeless ones out there that can scare the hell out of generation after generation?</div><div><br></div><div>Star Wars, E.T., Jurrassic Park, all timeless, but try watching Nightmare on Elm street now, trust me I did and it was ridiculous! Why? Stay tuned and I'll tell you! </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07018220644442505577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8783523826525595579.post-74239419653686201042015-10-17T23:08:00.001-07:002015-10-17T23:08:00.324-07:00The scary project<div>After watching terrible horror movie after terrible horror movie, desperately waiting for something so frightening it never leaves the soul. Yet finding nothing but disappointment. </div><div>I have to wonder, is it even possible to frighten people anymore? Are we so bombarded with real terrible things going on in the world that the simple creak on the stairs of the empty house, moan in the darkness, or feeling that someone is watching you sleep does nothing anymore?</div><div><br></div><div>Do those writing this laughable attempt and horror even understand what it is to be afraid of something you can't see? </div><div>Making one jump is not the same as making one sleep with the light on! </div><div><br></div><div>So is it possible to write something truly terrifying? </div><div>I guess there is only one way to find out...</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07018220644442505577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8783523826525595579.post-10948085202803606712015-05-19T22:01:00.001-07:002015-05-19T22:01:26.529-07:00New me.<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg437UI-AZGFK3iV5j1uPIDf-X-iCVlWr5FV06fVO_1xFjbQJIxJFLAu6sgdF7oI55Xg6KtxoBQbY7pEncEuw1Oir0CNetMyQl2RW72A7W2BYH_E1qNlYJARY2RDnrAXDskQYKhgLTi3hhT/s640/blogger-image--399562604.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg437UI-AZGFK3iV5j1uPIDf-X-iCVlWr5FV06fVO_1xFjbQJIxJFLAu6sgdF7oI55Xg6KtxoBQbY7pEncEuw1Oir0CNetMyQl2RW72A7W2BYH_E1qNlYJARY2RDnrAXDskQYKhgLTi3hhT/s640/blogger-image--399562604.jpg"></a></div><br></div>It hasn't quite been ten months since my surgery, and I feel like a whole new me!<div>I feel like I was given a second chance at living. Now I know I wasn't dying, I didn't have a major life saving operation per say, but it did change my life. </div><div>I am in the best shape I've been in, in years, I'm happy, I actually like the way I look, which for a female who's had kids, is a big deal!! </div><div>I'm 10lbs lighter and the scale hasn't moved in well over a month, despite my working out, eating smaller portions, and aside from the occasional treat, eating healthy. But that's okay. Sure I'd like to loose another 5lbs at least, but if I don't but I still feel this good, then I'm okay with that.</div><div>The scale isn't as important as we all think. The best way to judge your progress is by how you feel, and how your clothes feel.</div><div>I have been slowly buying a whole new wardrobe, and it's filled with skirts and dresses. I haven't been able to wear them in years. Not and still feel good in them, I'm ised to covering myself up in stomach hiding sweaters and pants to start and balance out my middle.</div><div>Not any more!!! This weekend I purchased 3 dresses alone, and I can't wait to wear them all.</div><div>I have even bought bikinis for my upcoming trip to Maui. I haven't worn a bikini since I was 16 years old. </div><div>I know I still have work to do, there is much to be toned, and my cardio is always in need of help, but I hiked up a mountain, I couldn't have done that before surgery. The extra weight on my stomach slowed me down and put stress on my heart. Since surgery, my heart rate has been great and my cardio has benefited substantially.</div><div>I'm a whole new me, and I can't wait to experience more! </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07018220644442505577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8783523826525595579.post-398434592871281752015-05-07T07:24:00.001-07:002015-05-07T07:24:07.115-07:00ALS<div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392);">Please help the support ALS! $5.00 from every sale of Walk Gently Through My Mind. Tip Toe Through My Soul will be donated to the Alberta ALS Society</div><div style="color: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.701961); font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0980392);"><a href="http://ow.ly/3uCamJ" x-apple-data-detectors="true" x-apple-data-detectors-type="link" x-apple-data-detectors-result="21">http://ow.ly/3uCamJ</a></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07018220644442505577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8783523826525595579.post-43598215322858332062015-04-27T22:12:00.001-07:002015-04-27T22:12:50.247-07:00Yeah, I hiked!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCcSQ_Q8VTUjwM0rE4dv-9iDfLbKRmznDZPHgrwo6XlJm7ip_ykX96gusUaIrUydo_2DUCtOIrrEnOTHyAIjUQuvsb6xA4aX15RwNlIeB2fxG30JnUHY-rnFD1_eCeTmhiuvRKFN5Tf9YM/s640/blogger-image-135948677.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhCcSQ_Q8VTUjwM0rE4dv-9iDfLbKRmznDZPHgrwo6XlJm7ip_ykX96gusUaIrUydo_2DUCtOIrrEnOTHyAIjUQuvsb6xA4aX15RwNlIeB2fxG30JnUHY-rnFD1_eCeTmhiuvRKFN5Tf9YM/s640/blogger-image-135948677.jpg"></a></div><br></div>I leaped right out of my comfort zone on Sunday and I so glad I did!<div>I seem to have become quite shy over the last thirteen years of working from home, meeting new people isn't easy and when I do I'm so nervous I usually end up babbling like a fool. But seen as I have started a bucket list consisting of numerous things hubby is not interested in and most are not ideal to do alone, I have no choice but to meet new people.</div><div>So Sunday I went hiking with 3 new friends, and I think it went pretty good. </div><div>Especially considering me and the great outdoors are not always compatible, the bugs, the uneven ground, the weather, all make it challenging for an introvert, writer such as myself.</div><div>But I took myself to outdoor store and bought the fancy hiking pack and the not skiing poles, which generated quite the laugh from the sales guy when I asked for them. And I packed my bag with enough stuff I could have lasted a few days out there, and I headed to Fullerton Loop in Bragg creak. </div><div>It was amazing, the veiw was beautiful, the air was fresh and the sense of accomplishment gave me a high I still haven't come down from. I can't wait to go again!</div><div>Now don't get me wrong, I don't plan on doing and mountain climbing, tied to a rock and scaling a cliff, no thank you! But I definitely will be trying more trails and challenging myself a bit more. </div><div>And who knows, maybe I will meet more friends along the way. <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjF0CFXqQHQNJtK18CHqUCotOC44Nmog3ChHKE09-A_p9k1qFB6cCNqgv72G5xgGNeayIYb1AJs8ZJodnP-uOB-HrE34Wr-4cp_EIDUsOdjcq-lIyBKhd7V6I0_U28XnH0QknmjLkObTrC/s640/blogger-image-896983114.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjF0CFXqQHQNJtK18CHqUCotOC44Nmog3ChHKE09-A_p9k1qFB6cCNqgv72G5xgGNeayIYb1AJs8ZJodnP-uOB-HrE34Wr-4cp_EIDUsOdjcq-lIyBKhd7V6I0_U28XnH0QknmjLkObTrC/s640/blogger-image-896983114.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07018220644442505577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8783523826525595579.post-81102200438548915552015-04-06T02:28:00.001-07:002015-04-06T02:28:19.156-07:00Coming to an endIt's been ten years since I started writing my Nytstars series and I am finally writing the ending of the fourth and final book.<div>Sure I've written another 8 book series in between, a book about raising a child with ADHD, a poetry book and a children's book. But finishing the very first series I started feels even more significant. I feel like I am letting go of a piece of me. It's similar to a child moving out. I've nurtured and cared for it, helped it to grow into the series it is today and now I'm letting out of the nest and hoping it fly's! </div><div><br></div><div>It's a hard thing to do, let go. All the hours and hours we as writers put into each book, our heart and soul all squished in, with our deepest emotions, our fears exposed, our hopes put out there for the squashing. Every book we write is filled with our soul, and we just share it with everyone. Sure we hide behind fictitious names and places, throwing in prices of those we love and hate, all in a feeble attempt to throw my oh off the scent of what pieces of us is what.</div><div><br></div><div>Someone recently asked me how it feels to be a writer. I wondered if they had ever read a book in their life! How does it feel? Terrifying, thrilling, frightening, amazing, horrific, all at the same time. But I suppose a reader wouldn't know that, j know when I read a book I don't think about the author, I think about the characters and if I don't know the author and their friends and family parsonally then I don't know the characters any more than as the characters in the books. </div><div>I know that each character represents someone in the authors life. That events could actually be a representation of an actual event in their life, but I don't know exactly who the character represents. </div><div>I don't know that the guys that gets his head hopped off by an angry elf is actually their uncle who fights with a cousin over grandmas cake knife.</div><div>I finally answers the person who had asked me how it feels to be a writer and told them it feels like being beautifully<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">, lonely, while in a crowd.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">You know no one understands that part of you, they don't know how it feels to have people read your words, how painful it is when people don't. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">How vulnerable you are, people have the ability to break you quite easily and not even know or care that they did it.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">But I wouldn't change it for the world! </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">And now my first series is coming to an end I have learned so much!</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I've learned that the only ones who truly know you are the ones who have read your books!!! </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">That anyone can listen to you talk, but to read what you write, that's how you know they care.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I've learned that I can write, and I am supposed to write!</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I've learned that spelling is important, even though I'm not good at it.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">And above all I've learned that when fans quote your work back you, you better remember you wrote that!!</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Sl every time you pick up a book remember you are reading into a writers soul. It's not easy to write a book, so remember to appreciate those who write your escapes, your fantasies, and your lessons. </font></div><div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07018220644442505577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8783523826525595579.post-2550126894374132212015-03-25T07:42:00.001-07:002015-03-25T07:42:22.847-07:00Competitive, me?So I'm still loving my FitBit! It reay is the best way to make sure I keep moving.<div>I join weekly challenges and daily ones too. I find myself checking in all day long to make sure I'm still on top. Nothing makes me more mad than seeing that message saying someone snuck past me!</div><div>I instantly start pacing the room while thinking of ways to increase my step count.</div><div>I'm going for walks, running on the treadmill and on occasion running on the spot in my closet because someone suck past me while I wasn't paying attention. </div><div>Sure I may be a little "obsessed" I may be "taking it too far" or even acting "crazy" but I'm actually making the steps. I'm actually moving and that can't be bad, right? </div><div>If it's a little competition that gets you moving, that's okay.</div><div>I'm sure my FitBit nemesis, the one who magically makes 10'000 steps in 30 mins and always seems to walk further than I do, no matter how many steps I make. I'm sure she is making the steps, as much as sometimes I think she's sharing it with someone else because she seems to walk 24/7, or she's sitting and tapping the FitBit while watching movies, but either way it makes me move more.</div><div>Now if I could just find a way to be just as competitive with eating healthier, everything would be great! </div><div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07018220644442505577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8783523826525595579.post-67733583701799276852015-01-18T23:24:00.001-08:002015-01-18T23:24:50.355-08:00My journey continuesIt's been a while since I posted. Life gets in the way as it so often does.<div>Trying to take care of me on top of work and family and friends and cooking and cleaning and laundry and and and is almost impossible.</div><div>I want to go to the gym but here's not enough time. I want to go for a walk but it's too cold. I want to eat right but it takes thing to make and no one else will eat it. OMG! Life doesn't make taking care of me easy at all.</div><div>My new favorite accessory is my FitBit. It's cute, pink, and tracking my steps. I need 10'000 a day to reach my goal. If I don't hit it I find myself walking around my kitchen counter or up and down stairs just to see the steps add up. It's a win win really, it feeds my competitive nature while working my ass at the same time. Love it!</div><div> </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07018220644442505577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8783523826525595579.post-61109383286403353842014-08-17T17:01:00.001-07:002014-08-17T17:01:37.717-07:00Juice<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis2tqsGjvK1bS6JgnwPFiYl7ZwrguTE0qmlj_ilhSJRbLexpCnE0c3uL9OyF-IdzgnKm_-lpVtWw4_fBamkuuOK2AMnB7vygtO0vFV4O9KuzYYkdoqSwhcsvHoL2U9Ym2085nNMx17sXs0/s640/blogger-image-129156280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis2tqsGjvK1bS6JgnwPFiYl7ZwrguTE0qmlj_ilhSJRbLexpCnE0c3uL9OyF-IdzgnKm_-lpVtWw4_fBamkuuOK2AMnB7vygtO0vFV4O9KuzYYkdoqSwhcsvHoL2U9Ym2085nNMx17sXs0/s640/blogger-image-129156280.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgivb3Cm5zpiP_HRCHoWuGMRFUe8u_Y5eSfSoscYen_VVSOBsKh-nuwfVnnPc6QPaa3MmM3qx80ervp08Ez00AWq5hlHOhgMcy0OYO4GFcxLKrOVJas7QuGQQC_N9sMQE-ey9oyRC3GGOUL/s640/blogger-image--1016566331.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgivb3Cm5zpiP_HRCHoWuGMRFUe8u_Y5eSfSoscYen_VVSOBsKh-nuwfVnnPc6QPaa3MmM3qx80ervp08Ez00AWq5hlHOhgMcy0OYO4GFcxLKrOVJas7QuGQQC_N9sMQE-ey9oyRC3GGOUL/s640/blogger-image--1016566331.jpg"></a></div><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEis2tqsGjvK1bS6JgnwPFiYl7ZwrguTE0qmlj_ilhSJRbLexpCnE0c3uL9OyF-IdzgnKm_-lpVtWw4_fBamkuuOK2AMnB7vygtO0vFV4O9KuzYYkdoqSwhcsvHoL2U9Ym2085nNMx17sXs0/s640/blogger-image-129156280.jpg"></div>My favorite thing to do lately is make juice!<div>It's silly I know, but it's so tasty, healthy, easy, and I enjoy doing it.</div><div>I bought the NutriBullet and all you need aside from that is a bowl, empty bottles or jug, a strainer (if you don't like pulp) and spoon.</div><div>I strain the pulp and bake muffins with it, they turn out moist and delicious. </div><div>Orange juice is my favorite. But you can make pretty much anything. I don't follow the recipes that came with the NutriBullet because I never have all the stuff needed. It would be crazy expensive to make them and have a veriety of flavours to choose from.</div><div>So this is my recipe for Orange juice.</div><div>4 oranges </div><div>1 Lemmon </div><div>Water to the max line on the NutriBullet cups.</div><div><br></div><div>This makes 1L of juice, minus the pulp.</div><div>It's delicious and good for you! If you don't like orange juice, try whatever fruit you like! <div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuH6AFZSY11T8KzvnlrZWRhecD6Dmkoils8vlAMn7DT1Fv4p4IjYnSt8GFVehPd9_-tY87BdASEqvDrtX7XsRTjiCL8dzgkFy17impyclnWF_lCETqMDPXDNtLXqt7jwt568xLLF90spxf/s640/blogger-image--1083750473.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuH6AFZSY11T8KzvnlrZWRhecD6Dmkoils8vlAMn7DT1Fv4p4IjYnSt8GFVehPd9_-tY87BdASEqvDrtX7XsRTjiCL8dzgkFy17impyclnWF_lCETqMDPXDNtLXqt7jwt568xLLF90spxf/s640/blogger-image--1083750473.jpg"></a></div></div><div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07018220644442505577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8783523826525595579.post-32042669803853190082014-08-12T21:44:00.001-07:002014-08-12T21:44:44.346-07:0012 days laterIt has now been 12 days since my surgery and I'm feeling good. Sometimes even great! As long as I don't over do it.<div>The surgery itself went great. The day of I showed up, full of excitement, ready to leave my pain, discomfort, and unhappiness behinde.</div><div>The years of waiting and longing was finally over. There was no room for nerves, no time for doubt. I was on the operating table less than thirty minutes after getting to the surgical center.</div><div>I don't remember much after that. I don't remember my friend driving me home, I don't remember the conversation I had with my neighbor I have never formally introduced myself to. I only hope I didn't embarrass myself too bad.</div><div>I also don't remember being changed into the nightgown I woke up in, or the having the pictures taken I found in my phone a few days later.</div><div>I spent the next few days and nights on the recliner in the family room. Thankfully my youngest son was a trouper and slept on the couch each night with me. We watched movies, tv shows, and hanging out. It was a great way to recover.</div><div>The pain sucks, the itch sucks worse. The binder is uncomfortable and the numbing feeling gives me the willies. But OMG is it worth it!!</div><div>I can see the results already, I know they will only get better from here. The health issues are fixed and I am going to look great because of it. I couldn't ask for anything more!</div><div>The picture I posted are of before and after, then week ones results.</div><div>I'm happy so far, and surprisingly excited to get back to the gym. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioao9KusGLxYlaygHTYx3WNCzvyhjdqIcs06l0O5BIIz71uA-yEntrJFkcQUIcc4tK0FbwlDPOzw_sF5g00h4joKawK5ku4KmUdPk3QjnPlknfQkVq_fU4PNIec7Q-rDjKkEiEx47hyphenhyphenF3U/s640/blogger-image-2110703818.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEioao9KusGLxYlaygHTYx3WNCzvyhjdqIcs06l0O5BIIz71uA-yEntrJFkcQUIcc4tK0FbwlDPOzw_sF5g00h4joKawK5ku4KmUdPk3QjnPlknfQkVq_fU4PNIec7Q-rDjKkEiEx47hyphenhyphenF3U/s640/blogger-image-2110703818.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07018220644442505577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8783523826525595579.post-48772647067909511272014-07-26T21:21:00.001-07:002014-07-26T21:21:07.362-07:00An evening out.My new favorite pastime is sitting outside on my deck in the evening.<div>Wrapped in a blanket when the sun starts to descend. The chill is welcomed after the heat of a summers day.</div><div>The breeze teasing the pages of my book as I am lost in the story. It's euphoric and peaceful.</div><div>As the light slowly fades and the dim shimmer of the candles fail to light the pages of my book, I simply sit and listen to teenagers enjoying their summer evenings of freedom.</div><div>It's so easy to forget to slow down, take time to yourself, and enjoy the simple pleasures that life offers.</div><div>An evenings out, has taken on a whole new meaning for me, and I couldn't be happier. </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07018220644442505577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8783523826525595579.post-24112009399150707052014-07-25T21:50:00.001-07:002014-07-25T21:50:24.964-07:00One weekThere is only one week to go until my surgery. In fact, this time next week I will already be recovering! <div>No nerves yet, just excitement. I'm eager to feel better and look better. </div><div>I can't wait to be able to use my core strength, well actually to have some core strength to use.</div><div>I'm looking forward to not having back pain, or an uncomfortable hanging weight I'm lugging around all day. The discomfort and irritation around my scars will be gone, and tenderness and swelling also gone. Not to mention, my stomach will look amazing! </div><div>I know there is going to be a lot of pain and discomfort from the surgery, but it is more than worth it! </div><div>I'm ready! This week will not go fast enough!</div><div><br></div><div>I had my preop appointment a few days ago and had the dreaded before pictures.</div><div>It was like the dreaded 360 mirror on What not to wear. Only a 100 times worse because it was just me in my underwear being photographed. I will not be posting those pictures lol</div><div>But the day of my surgery I will post before pics. </div><div>I think my only concern now, is how will I keep my puppy from laying on my stomach, it's his favorite place to nap. </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07018220644442505577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8783523826525595579.post-61156143967361263152014-07-16T22:34:00.001-07:002014-07-16T22:34:59.153-07:0015 days to go!Fifteen days to go until my surgery!! I am beyond excited!<div>I know I should be a little nervous, but I'm not. I can't wait to feel normal again. To be able to just get dressed in the morning without all the stress clothes give me now! To not have pain and discomfort from my scars and the lack of core strength. No sore back from lifting, no discomfort from running. I can't wait! </div><div>I've been doing what I like to call, pre surgery nesting. I shaved my dogs, a task I don't want to worry about while recovering. I went shopping for all gifts I will need during recovery time, just in case I'm not up to going to the mall after.</div><div>I have also bought things to make my recovery better. Such as comfy clothing, cheap bedding, just in case. A blanket to wrap up it when sitting on the deck at night. All things that seem like they maybe important, but may not be. I still have things on my list, like Popsicles I may want while I can't eat much, and favorite foods for when I can eat. </div><div>It's just not coming fast enough lol </div><div>Tomorrow is my pre op appointment, and I will be doing before pictures. So hopefully I will be brave enough to post them! </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07018220644442505577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8783523826525595579.post-47527173789092245142014-07-06T01:15:00.001-07:002014-07-06T01:15:36.946-07:00The ERI have been to the ER twice in the last week, my poor friend has been I'll.<div>Like any friend would do when they get a call saying their BFF is off to the ER, I packed my "all night wait in an ER bag" and headed there to meet her.</div><div>Now I will point out that we live at opposite ends if the city, and heading to the north for someone who lives in the south is like going to another city. The culture shock can be alarming. And as most from the south end would tell you, going to some parts of the north is going to the hood.</div><div>The hospital is smack dab in the middle of said hood! </div><div>On my second visit, I locked my car securely in the paid parking area, hoping I would see it one piece when I left. And headed to the doors. Now after the first visit I thought maybe I am snobby, or sheltered, or a princess? But my second visit confirmed that is not the case. Or at least not 100% of the case at least.</div><div>While heading to the doors, alone at night. I see a couple having sex in the bushes, who actual asked if I had any change, however not stopping to do so. </div><div>A man asked me if I had any chickens for sale. A woman asked if I would watch her baby while she got high. Yet had no baby. (I alerted security) Two kids were a sleep on a bench, with pillows and blankets. (Security alerted again) and finally a man peeing in the bush by the doors. All this before I even made it into the doors! </div><div>I could write a novel about all the different characters in the waiting room. And some probably will make it into a book here and there.</div><div>Now I don't mean to sound snobby and judgmental, but I have never seen anything like this at the south hospitals. I'm not saying it doesn't happen, I have just never seen it.</div><div>I would like to think that I am accepting of all humans and treat them all the same. I do try my best to. But sometimes humans make it hard!</div><div>Especially when drinking alcohol in the ER waiting room, or running out to "smoke a fatty" because you have been waiting so long you're mellow was harshed.</div><div>And to the guy who insisted on telling everyone you didn't pay the hooker because she gave you a rash. And the family who brought their kids in because you smoked pot and they now look a funny colour to you. And the man who drove his car over his own foot (not sure how one does that), you are not helping me to not be not so snobby...</div><div>Thankfully my car was in one piece when I returned. And the kids on the bench were no longer there. Nor where the couple in the bushes.</div><div>And I made it back to the south safe and sound.</div><div>I guess I am just a princess lol </div><div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07018220644442505577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8783523826525595579.post-63800567533194479082014-06-18T23:24:00.001-07:002014-06-18T23:24:39.982-07:00Don't judge me<div>Don't judge me because of where I'm from</div><div>It's where I'm going that matters </div><div>Don't judge me because of my religion </div><div>It's having faith in myself that's imperative </div><div>Don't judge me about my political stand point </div><div>It's standing with my head held high, self respect, and self confidence that's important</div><div>Don't judge me about who I love </div><div>It only matters that I am able to love and worthy of being loved</div><div>Don't judge who I am</div><div>I'm human just like you</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07018220644442505577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8783523826525595579.post-64766373062405368142014-06-12T22:48:00.001-07:002014-06-12T22:48:01.496-07:00Super Hero<div>I know a super hero</div><div>Who does not wear a cape</div><div>But he often fixes toys</div><div>With his super powerful tape</div><div>He does not leap over buildings</div><div>Or spin a fancy web</div><div>But can chase away all monsters from underneath my bed</div><div>He doesn't double in size </div><div>Or turn the colour green</div><div>But when he builds a fort with me</div><div>It's the best I've ever seen</div><div>He doesn't wear a suit that fires guns</div><div>Or laser beams </div><div>But when I wake at night crying </div><div>He always fixes my bad dreams</div><div>He can not turn invisible </div><div>Or out run a speeding train</div><div>But when I fall off my bike</div><div>He can take away the pain</div><div>My super hero is special </div><div>The best I've ever had </div><div>You may know him by a code name </div><div>But his hero name is Dad </div><div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07018220644442505577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8783523826525595579.post-75333123809271885932014-06-09T22:44:00.001-07:002014-06-09T22:44:18.983-07:00The politician<div>The devil cries out through the wind</div><div>To the mighty who have blatantly sinned</div><div>Who take from the ones who are already poor</div><div>And gave to the greedy always needing more</div><div>He sees you hiding so cowardly by</div><div>I am innocent you shamefully cry</div><div>My job I was doing you try to explain</div><div>Begging forgiveness when judgment day came</div><div>The devil calls out to you his friend </div><div>To live together in your fiery end </div><div>I did the best that I could do </div><div>You shout to the devil who's waiting for you </div><div>Your best you say with all your might</div><div>But that doesn't really sound quite right </div><div>Your best would clearly have been far more </div><div>If you were half the man you were before</div><div>If you were still the man looking to lead</div><div>Instead of the politician driven be greed</div><div>If you were the man that promised to please</div><div>Instead of the lier now begging on his knees</div><div>Forgiveness your people can give for your sins</div><div>But not I for I am the hell your torture within </div><div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07018220644442505577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8783523826525595579.post-40226589310182228852014-06-08T23:17:00.001-07:002014-06-08T23:17:44.687-07:00Woman to WomanLately I have noticed that more and more women struggle with supporting other women. (Especially in a certain women's support group)<div>This baffles me. Granted it is not all women, but a good majority.</div><div>They seem to have very little tollerence for anyone's support or advice that is being offered, if said advice isn't exactly what they want to hear. Which leads me to the question, why were they even asking for advice in the first place then?</div><div>I understand that some women have strong views and opinions, but I don't see the need to make others feel bad about there views if they differ.</div><div>And the amount of bashing eachother and belittling is rediculous!</div><div>There is definitely one or two that seem to have nothing better to do than to try and make others feel bad about themselves.</div><div>Now I'm well aware that the mature thing to do is to leave the group, forget about it, I don't need that in my life.</div><div>But there is a part of me that hopes that they will get better, that these women will grow up, learn to treat others as they would have others treat them. And be classy, intelligent women and build each other up, instead of knocking each other down.</div><div>Then I hate to admit that there is another small, tiny, minuscule even, part of me that can't turn away. The group is a train wreck, you know you shouldn't, but you have to look.</div><div>Occasionally you can get good advice and answers to questions, but the few bad apples seem to be taking over the whole bunch.</div><div>As women we need eachother. We need a good girls night every now and then. We need to giggle about silly things while eating junk. Cry at a sad movie and jump and scream at the scary ones together. We need eachother to tell us if our jeans make us look fat, and to share clothes and secrets with.</div><div>Our girl fiends, best friends, sisters, mothers, auntes, and grandmothers are our alies, they are the only ones who have any idea what we are going through. Girls need eachother, we are a team, all of us! And a team is only as strong as their weakest player. So it's time we make them all strong! </div><div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07018220644442505577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8783523826525595579.post-3271395659697558922014-06-06T20:35:00.001-07:002014-06-06T20:35:48.920-07:00Balance<div>After trying so many different diets and failing, I have come to the conclusion that you have to make diet choices that are realistic. Cutting out carbs and going fad, I mean gluten free completely. Is not realistic!</div><div>You may do it for a while, but it won't last. It can't, life will get in the way. So my theory is, cut down, not out!</div><div>I only cut out the things I will not miss/don't really like all that much anyway. Like spaghetti, or MacDonald's. </div><div>Lowering carb intake is okay. Cutting it out completely will leave you tiered, hungry, constipated, and miserable. You will eventually give that up and gain more weight than you lost in the first place. </div><div>Making a healthy lifestyle choice is far better than dieting!</div><div>Lower your salt intake drastically!</div><div>Use a measuring cup to monitor carbs.</div><div>And have one treat day a week instead of one treat a day. </div><div>Use smaller plates and drink more water. Lemmon water is great. And if you struggle drinking water (like I do) use a cup with a straw it's easier.</div><div>Try making your own juices. I use the nutribullet, I don't like pulp so I strain it and make muffins or Popsicles with the pulp.</div><div>All the changes you make are going to make difference, how much of a difference depends on how committed you are. I was working out for well over a year and frankly wasn't getting anywhere. I would loose a pound then gain two. Loose four and gain back three. It was totally frustrating.</div><div>I haven't been able to work out for almost six months now due to a foot injury. I have been watching what I eat like crazy, lowering portions and eliminating foods I didn't care about eating. I've been impressed at how much that makes a difference. Considering I've barley been able to walk around the house, let alone go for a walk or run on the treadmill I should have gained weight, at least a few pounds and surprisingly I haven't. I have actually lost two pounds.</div><div>I think what you eat has a huge impact on your weight, far more than I ever realized.</div><div>If I go out for dinner I still try to eat somewhat healthy. But I occasionally splurge on dessert and I don't really guilty at all. I tend to share the dessert at least, but truthfully I couldn't eat a whole meal and dessert in one sitting anyway. </div><div>It's all about balance, at the end of the day, you do want to be thin and miserable. </div><div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07018220644442505577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8783523826525595579.post-82496991207768882992014-05-28T22:50:00.001-07:002014-05-28T22:50:52.527-07:00Too fastIn one week my oldest son will walk across the stage at his high school graduation. Oh my god! That came way too fast!<div>It seems like only yesterday I held him in my arms for the first time, this morning that I took him to his first day of school. And dive minutes ago that he started high school. Where did the time go?</div><div>People always say they grow up too quick, but at the time when they don't sleep through the night or have temper tantrums for silly reasons, it seems to take forever.</div><div>You don't get long to do your job as a parent. To raise a boy into a man or a girl into a woman. So you better make sure every moment counts, every lesson is tought well, and every I love you is said loud and clear.</div><div>You won't agree with every choice they make or path they choose to walk. But if you have done your job, you know they will do whatever they choose to do, the best they can.</div><div>It's the hardest part of parenting, letting them do it on their own. I remember when he was learning to walk and I held my breath as I let go of his tiny fingers so he could take his wobbly steps. My heart stopped every time his dad let go of the bike seat when he was learning to ride a two wheeler. But each time he did it. He took the next step and made me so proud as he did.</div><div>This step may be his biggest step yet, but I have never been more proud of him. </div><div>I know a parents job is never really done, but seeing him grow into the man he has become, makes me happy to know, I did a good job. </div><div>He will walk across the stage next week in the last pair of boots we will buy him. He sure has grown since his first pair! </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin3E4oGd-ET719iXrpTD3GZPCGTRxsnScpeqKu89L9T8i84F9qXHWJJFHBn1deMcJDz3XqSugw_StvF9uZHf-Z2XEppc1MBC_ZzBVBAqYj-Es8XB9MnIvLt-Ih3cNSEH2fp2he1brm9q0H/s640/blogger-image--249386887.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEin3E4oGd-ET719iXrpTD3GZPCGTRxsnScpeqKu89L9T8i84F9qXHWJJFHBn1deMcJDz3XqSugw_StvF9uZHf-Z2XEppc1MBC_ZzBVBAqYj-Es8XB9MnIvLt-Ih3cNSEH2fp2he1brm9q0H/s640/blogger-image--249386887.jpg"></a></div><br></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07018220644442505577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8783523826525595579.post-71168294336898712402014-05-25T10:04:00.001-07:002014-05-25T10:15:13.873-07:00My books<div>
If you like my blog check out my books! </div>
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Aberrant. Delilah was bullied to death. then she came back for revenge. <a href="http://t.co/zcK52WSL">http://t.co/zcK52WSL</a></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">The second book in my Aberrant series! Brother by Jo-Anne Sieppert <a href="https://t.co/B5EeCQejcn" target="_blank"> https://t.co/B5EeCQejcn</a></span></div>
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Nytstars. If you like Harry Potter you will love this! <a href="http://t.co/5muzZHzJ" target="_blank"> http://t.co/5muzZHzJ</a></div>
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Distracting the Distractions. Raising a child with ADD, a parents decision to medicate.</div>
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If you have a child with ADHD you need to read this! <a href="http://t.co/CIewbBr4qO" target="_blank"> http://t.co/CIewbBr4qO</a></div>
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Little Tyler. <a href="http://t.co/ZmQ6HE08">http://t.co/ZmQ6HE08</a> </div>
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Walk Gently Through My Mind, Tip Toe Through My Soul. <a href="http://t.co/yzKvR9uNRn">http://t.co/yzKvR9uNRn</a></div>
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My second poetry book. Words Of My Soul. <a href="http://t.co/SunHyL1MSN">http://t.co/SunHyL1MSN</a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07018220644442505577noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8783523826525595579.post-90888531210827465402014-05-22T20:18:00.001-07:002014-05-22T20:18:42.749-07:00Your gift<div>Your gift</div><div>You gave us all a gift today</div><div>Though it cost your life to give</div><div>There is no greater price for you to pay</div><div>For the one we love to live</div><div>You didn't even know her name</div><div>Or the precious role she plays </div><div>It was your time</div><div>The angels came </div><div>And you made sure she stays</div><div>She can now watch her grand kids </div><div>As they learn and laugh and grow</div><div>And she can plant her spring time flowers </div><div>And welcome the winter snow </div><div>She can see the babies first Christmas </div><div>And the oldest graduate from school</div><div>She can see the middle ones handy work</div><div>And have a game of pool</div><div>And all of this is possible because you chose to give</div><div>The last gift you ever gave</div><div>Was for someone else to live</div><div>Thank you</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07018220644442505577noreply@blogger.com0