::::see ya, wisdom teeth--day one::::

four of these big chompers are gone after today....but I have plenty to spare

This morning at 8 o'clock sharp, I had all four of my wisdom teeth removed. Dr. Dootson told me that I was "the winner" for having all four out. I'm guessing most people don't get all four out??? I would love some feedback on this, because I really thought when one needed to come out--they all came out. Obviously, I'm not a dental medicine pro.

I won't lie to y'all. I was extremely nervous going into the procedure. Don't ask why, because I have NO clue. I don't know where this new found nervousness comes from, but I wish it would go right back! The office staff was nothing but first class, and I would recommend them to anyone! I don't think I've ever been at any practice where everyone is that nice and professional. I made sure to compliment them BEFORE the general anesthesia. Who knows what I would have said on my way out the door anyway!

After I pulled myself together, I don't really remember that much. I sat down on this pillow thing, they laid me back, complimented my shoes (sweet!), hooked me up to some cool electrodes, put a pulse ox on my finger, made me take my hair down (uhh...it already looked rough!), I assured those sweet girls that I would be a good nurse-patient, I apologized in advance for saying/doing something stupid, they put some oxygen over my nose, and we waited for the doc to walk in. When he arrived, he told me that he'd be putting some laughing gas through my mask while they set some things up and started the IV. Honestly, I got a little worried. I didn't feel a thing. After he placed the IV, we had a short little conversation that went something like this.

Doc: "Well, that was probably the worst part. Most people are actually more afraid of the needle than anything else."

Me: "I think my mother-in-law is scared of needle sticks, and that's why she didn't have an epidural with four children."

Doc and staff: "Whoa...."

Me: "Yeah, and when she had my SON, he weighed 11 1/2 pounds!"

Doc and staff: (laughing)

Me: "Ok, I think that laughing gas is working now, huh?"

Doc and staff: (laughing)

Me: "Are you pushing anything through my IV now?" (In times like this, I wish I wasn't a nurse)

Doc: "No, we're just getting some things set up...."

::::::::::::::::::::apparently, that was all she wrote for me. next thing--surgery's over::::::::::::::::::

When I woke up, the cool ladies were talking to me. I'm pretty sure one of them showed me her "Halloween design" nails that she did herself. She even made a disclaimer that her right hand wasn't as good, because she's not left handed. Of course, trying to sound like I was totally "with it," I approved of her awesome nails like they were coated in the newest Essie shade right out of inStyle magazine or something! Good save, Meagan. I think I was in and out, and I'm sure I said some stupid stuff--due to the laughter that I also heard...in and out. Then out of nowhere, I guess I made enough sense to leave. They put a really cool looking ice pack around my head and called Andrew to the back so that I could get the run down on post-op instructions. It's a good thing that I opted out of singing at church this Sunday, because she said no singing for a week. No singing??? No humming??? I've already discovered that this is going to be really tough.

When Andrew and I got home, he ran back out to pick up my prescriptions. I got to the lazy activity that I took part in all day: laying in front of the TV--computer, books, and magazines at my disposal as well. Shortly after Andrew got home, Mom and Dad came to help take care of me, the house, and the yard! Dad worked outside in the yard ALL DAY! Mom cooked, cleaned, and took care of her baby girl. Andrew also took care of me, but was able to get some work done in the office and later outside, thanks to mom being here. My mother-in-law, Cookie, brought me a chocolate "non-paleo" (and no, I do not care!) milkshake. I had just a little, since I'm not used to drinking milk being on paleo. Let me just say--it was the jam! I am so thankful for such wonderful family members! They are so loving and giving, and I just enjoyed them being here! Maya was in her element, since she had my Dad spoiling her all day while he did yard work. At one point, I saw her bouncing along in the truck bed as Dad gathered pine straw. She is worn out, but even Maya benefited from Mommy's surgery and her grandparents' visit. She's so rotten!

this is me just hanging out with some friends after the surgery today...see no swelling at all!!!

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Yeah right! Here's the real deal. I know...I know...I look like a dream! Hahaha.

As far as pain goes, I've only taken two motrin and one percocet/tylox/oxycodone (they're all the same). I'm about to head to bed, and I'll definitely be taking some percocet to help me sleep. The numbness finally wore off after about 10 hours. Yeah, it was only supposed to last for 6. What what??? My post-op diet (in order, but not at the same time) has included: water, applesauce, mashed potatoes, chocolate pudding, milkshake, scrambled eggs, and dairy free chocolate ice cream. I think I'm all "sweeted" out for the night. Although, cool/cold soft foods are what really do it for me at this point. I've kept ice on the entire time since the surgery. No swelling yet, but I did eat a lot of pineapple last night in hopes that it would cut down on post-op swelling. We shall see when we compare pictures!

Okay, that's enough blogging for me. I haven't even napped today, so it's time for bed. I'll try to update you more tomorrow, since I'm sure I'll still be laying around on the couch!

Flash from the past...

Isn't he a cutie???? Yep, that's Andrew in all his toddler glory! I love that he's still standing with his weight on one leg. Some things never change, I guess. Just came across this picture today and thought I'd share. I know...I know. It's time for another update. However, it's also after midnight, and I need sleep to be able to function tomorrow (by function...I mean, I need to be able to clean this house!) Until next time....

We cheated....[paleo recap]

So, Andrew and I cheated on our paleo diet today. It was totally planned, since we recently completed 30 days of pretty strict paleo. As mentioned in an earlier post, we have been planning this day for a while. The verdict:

Yep, we already feel the effects. Andrew is a little worse than me, but he's always had very pronounced tummy issues. Our cheat meals of choice tonight were:

Andrew-papa john's pizza (extra cheese, extra pepperoni, extra sauce, and one 1/2 with bacon)

Meagan-zaxby's chicken finger plate with extra sauce

I will say that the best part was just knowing I could eat it. Honestly, I don't miss the feeling afterwards. Robb Wolf is right....30 days of paleo just doesn't let you "go back" to your old ways.

So, I'm sure we'll stick with the gluten free aspect of paleo, but I've loved the positive aspects of true paleo as well. I am fitting into clothes that I'd taken out of the lineup a while ago. "College jeans" have been my favorite new returned wardrobe item!

*disclaimer: true paleo is eating only raw vegetables* However, for us that's just not completely feasible. So, we figure veggies are better than no veggies at all.

After reading Robb Wolf's book, The Paleo Solution, I'm convinced that we are all celiac patients...just to varying degrees. Your body's just not made to digest gluten (found in wheat, barley, and rye). I also believe that we are addicted to refined sugar and processed foods. I am speaking from personal experience. The proof's in the outcome after 30 days! I have told tons of people about this new lifestyle, and have actually had a lot willing/wanting to try it. So, the paleo "lifestyle" is spreading. I think the biggest plus is that this is more than just a diet. Once you get past the initial hurdle of detoxing your body from it's bad food habits, you feel so much better. Some cases have even shown a REVERSE in disease process. Hello? Why would you NOT just at least give it a 30 day try? I will warn you though...it's not for the weak. It will take some discipline. If you have it, go for it. If not...keep feeling like junk every time you eat junk. It's up to you! I'm not saying that you can't cheat every once and a while. I know that we will (especially around the holidays.) However, you'll really start examining what you eat and why. This is the best thing that I learned after 30 days. I'm so glad that we did it, and I can't wait to see how it impacts our health in the future!!!

The "health"-y blog post

Well, the Winburns are presently going through some health "stuff" (as I like to call it.) I guess we could break the content of this post down into 2 categories:

1. Diagnosis 2. Diet

1. :::::Diagnosis:::::

Well, it's official: My thyroid stinks at doing it's job. Actually, it's a little bit of an over-achiever (in true Meagan "Brown" fashion!) To make this waaaaay less shorter and complicated than I could, let's just say this: My thyroid actually is producing too much of the thyroid hormone. The history and road to diagnosis is a really long story, too long for blogging tonight...but I'll try to hit the hightlights.

• Fall 2008: My Dr. felt a thyroid nodule during a routine exam
• After a series of tests, the ENT suggested that they aspirate (draw the fluid off) my thyroid cyst. Tests showed it non-cancerous!
• Winter 08-Summer 2010: Thought I was back to normal.
• Summer 2010-Summer 2011: I started seeing a slow progression of developing symptoms including: fatigue, body aches, hair loss, weight gain, stomach upset, skin issues, irritability, and the worst of all: Anxiety! Yes, even in normal places, around normal people, and especially before singing or anything where my adrenaline would rush.

So, this past June--I had enough. I went to the Doctor, and he really dismissed most of my symptoms. However, he did feel another nodule, so he ordered another thyroid ultrasound and bloodwork that day (which was normal.....normal!) After having my ultrasound, another (bigger) cyst was found in the same spot as the last one. This time, they found calcifications in it--which isn't always an issue. Not wanting to routinely follow it anymore, the doctor referred me to a surgeon, endocrinologist, and ordered a radioactive iodine thyroid uptake scan. The uptake scan showed that I had hyperthyroidism (actually, fairly bad!) He immediately put me on medication as well.

Unfortunately, endocrinologists (especially good ones) are hard to find in Columbia, so would you believe that I'm still waiting on my October 4th appointment!???!!! I did have a surgical consult with an awesome, helpful and informative doctor. He, although very knowledgeable seemed very puzzled by my case, seeing as how not all of my symptoms or even my lab work matches with hyperthyroidism. Other ideas he has are a toxic adenoma or even a pituitary tumor. Yep, my brain. So, we will know more once I see the endo. in a few weeks.

Until then, I think I'm handling the waiting and wondering fairly well. Sometimes, I get frustrated with "normal" people who take their health for granted. I get angry when I see those who are lazy, when I'd give anything for just one ounce of their energy. I get frustrated than Andrew and I can't even begin to think about starting our family, because I could be faced with radioactive treatment or brain surgery. Not to mention that the meds I'm on would be detrimental to a baby's growth and development. It's easy to foster these thoughts and feelings, but then, I'm totally stopped by God's overwhelming peace and His desire for me to completely trust in Him. God never said that this life would be easy, but He has promised to never leave us alone. That promise alone is what helps me stay centered. He is teaching me through this, and for that--I'm humbled and thankful.

So, that's that. I'll keep you all posted as we know more.

2. ::::Die-t::::

Yes, you read correctly. I spelled it like "die" with a "t," because that's simply what I felt like when Andrew and I started the paleo diet a few weeks ago. I have been begging Andrew for the longest time to try going gluten-free. I believe that he has celiac disease (an intolerance to gluten, which is found in wheat, barley, and rye...or just about anything you eat. His stomach stinks...literally. I mean, he has a horrible stomach, is lactose intolerant, and has acid reflux. Apparently, my nursing knowledge doesn't extend outside newborn babies, because he has refused my advice (and begging) for some time now. About a month ago, I put out an ultimatum:

Me: "Andrew, if you don't go get blood work done to test you for celiac disease then we're going to try a gluten free diet to see if you feel better!"

Andrew:"Well, if you call the doctor....(and then a line of excuses)"

Me:"Ok, Andrew...it's like this: Either we do something to try to fix this, or you have to stop complaining about it!"

Now, don't get me wrong. I'm not a horrible and mean wife. I genuinely understand that he complains because his stomach is awful, but I just want him healthy and well. That's the reason for the ultimatums. ;-) Let me also add that Andrew is not a chronic complainer. It's just at times, and I'll stress: it's warranted.

So, after some influence from our friend and workout guru, Bo, Andrew and I decided to try the paleo diet based on Robb Wolf's book. Let me tell. This is certainly a change for us. The foods you can't have would take another couple of hours to list, so I'll just let you know what we eat now....

1. meat

2. vegetables

3. fruit (although you should go easy on this if wanting to lose weight)

4. nuts (but of course, not most people's fave: peanuts)

5. fats (oils and nuts are included in this)

6. beverages consist of water, black coffee or tea....not sweet tea (closet fact: I am southern born and bred, and I don't drink sweet tea. Yes, it's true.)

So, that means: No processed foods, no bread (since you eliminate gluten on this diet), no starchy carbs (potatoes), no beans (legumes), no dairy, no sugar, and no to most of the things you might find in your pantry/frig.

To break it down: You eat like a hunter-gatherer would...like a man who lived hundreds of years ago. They ate from land and from sea. It's really simple if you look at it that way. Now, we are actually modifying the diet just a bit in that we cook most of our veggies. True paleo suggests raw, but hey....something's gotta give. I'd love to totally attempt to explain the in's and out's of this diet, but you really should just research it or read the book if you want more. It's more than just gluten free. Even gluten free diets can consist of stuff that at the root is still bad for you: gluten free desserts still have sugar, gluten free pasta is still an empty carb, and just because something says organic doesn't mean it's good for you. "Naturally" bad is still bad. So, we're taking it a step up and being much more disciplined than just your average gluten free diet.

I will admit that I've cheated a couple of times, and let me tell you: I felt the effects hardcore afterwards. We actually feel much better on this diet, and are trying to stay committed for 30 days. Then, we're modifying this baby. I'm serious. Before modifying though, we're giving ourselves a "cheat" day. Yep, a whole day of cheating. Andrew's already planned out his menu, although Bo thinks that Andrew won't make it til 3pm because he'll be so sick from having gluten again. Here's Andrew's menu:

B'fast: dunkin' donuts and coffee (probably with cream and sugar)

Lunch: Jersey Mike's (italian sub) helllllllloooooooo gluten

Dinner (if he makes it): Papa John's pizza

People ask why we're doing this. Well, I explained to you about Andrew, but I have my reasons as well.

1. It makes more sense financially for us to eat the same thing. That, or else I become like a short order cook....one meal for Andrew & one for me. No way!

2. This diet is proven to help with many health issues, such as autoimmune disorders, like celiac. It can even help with thyroid issues. So, I thought I'd give it a shot for this reason as well. Hey, I must say....I do feel better.

Well, that's enough rambling for tonight. We'll keep you posted on the diet as well. 13 days until we get to cheat...officially!

quick trip to Florida

A couple of weekends ago, Andrew and I were surprised with the opportunity to take an overnight trip to Florida. We went to check out a church plant that Andrew's in a coaching network with. Coincidentally, we were right down the road from long-time friend, Rachael and her husband, David! We left on a Saturday night, and we flew back on Sunday night. While we were there, we were upgraded to an SUV, and you just know what I had to choose, right??? Yes, you're right---a jeep wrangler (my dream car.) I think after this trip, Andrew is convinced that he loves the car almost as much as I do! We had a great time!!!!!!!! I was so great to catch up with Rachael and David. We got to see their cute condo and meet Parker and Jackson, their dogs! I just wish we could have stayed longer!!!!!!!!

my usual jump shot on the beach

Andrew grooming himself driving down the interstate in our JEEP....

dream car!!!!!!!!!!

It's been WAY too long, Rachey!

Old school Show Choir pic from high school....Yep, that's the year at the bottom right (2000!!!!)

summer stuff...

We celebrated Manning and Ellie's birthdays this past weekend with the family. I can't believe that they're four and five, respectively! We had a lot of spider man and disney princess gifts...even a spider man cake. Caroline slept through the whole thing, although Wyatt attempted to wake her up a few times by pouncing on her and trying to show her how to use a sword. You have to be on your toes around him, especially. Manning and Philip also share a birthday, so we let Philip help with the birthday candles!

Happy 4th Birthday, Manning!

Happy 5th Birthday, Ellie!

sweet Wyatt

Ellie was very excited about her perfume bottle

these swords were a pretty big hit

little Caroline finally woke up at the end of the party

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Maya has found her freedom around the backyard now. Amazingly, she was better when we first got her than she's been the past week or so. Yesterday: she tore our basil and cilantro plants to shreds. Today: she found aluminum foil and newspaper (who knows from where), and tore them to shreds. Later tonight: she pulled an entire squash plant out of the garden. That was it for Andrew. Needless to say, we know who the "dog-disciplinarian" is in this family. I try to make her mind, but that face--it gets me every time! Don't you worry though, Andrew did NOT let this one slide. It was pitiful then, but funny now to think back on Andrew throwing the squash plant at her.

TOMS called. They want her as their spokes-person, well spokes-dog. Haha.

Don't I wish that were true???

How can you say "no" to that little face???

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

These pictures of Miss Maya were from last weekend when we let her float around with Andrew in the pool. You can tell how she got so spoiled by looking at these!

:::::::::::::::::::::::::::;

In other news:

1. I went to the oral surgeon today, and it's official. My wisdom teeth are crazy, and they need to come out. Good news for today is, I get to be passed out during the surgery. Bad news for today is, I'm really short on PTO and need to figure out how I'm going to take off for this little ordeal. One of our friends told me a secret to cut out swelling...pineapple! He said he ate tons of fresh cut pineapple before his surgery and had ZERO swelling! I hope to repeat this! However, if I do swell up like a balloon face, then I will certainly take pictures. You just have to have documentation of that.

2. Krispy Kreme AND Dunkin' Donuts just opened up within a mile or so from our house....seriously, I could walk there in a short period of time. I can't deal with it. It's like I smell it in the air when I drive past it! Help me, Lord. It is not normal to be this attracted to sugar dough.

3. We are (in this very moment) watching what will hopefully be the last baseball game for Carolina this year. Yes, that's right!!!!!! We made it to the college world series again, and I am home for what could be the the final game! Honestly, it's exciting, but not quite as much as last year. Go Gamecocks!!!!!!!!!

4. In work news: I have the luxury of changing about a billion diapers a year at my job. However, I rarely have anything happen such as what transpired one night a few weeks ago. I had just done vitals on a baby in mom's labor and delivery room, and I was about to slap him on the scale for a quick weight. Sometimes, (especially with little boys), throwing their naked little selves on a scale really makes them "tinkle." Well, this kid tinkled...all over himself...THREE times! I am happy to announce that with two years of practice, I avoided every squirt. I kid you not though, he filled up the entire bottom of the scale! I have never seen anything like it in my life. At least he didn't get any in his mouth, at least I hope he didn't. Sadly, I have seen that before!

5. I'm still couponing when I have the time. Last week, I hit the motherload at CVS. I got two things of scotch tape, two pantene shampoos/conditioners, toothpaste, a bag of hershey's chocolate, diapers and wipes....all for $9 out of pocket. Don't get any big ideas....the diapers weren't for us. We gave them to Lara Beth for Caroline! I was so proud of my couponing that day. So worth it....

::::::::::::::::::::::::::::::

Ok, that's all I can think of for now. Aren't you glad I updated the blog twice in a month????? I am!

New niece!

Jay, Lara Beth, Mollie, and Ellie welcomed little Caroline Robbins Hardwick into the world this past Wednesday! She was 7 pounds, 15 ounces and 19 inches long. She has the cutest little head of red hair, too! Personally, I think she looks like big sister, Ellie! Andrew and I visited Lara Beth and Caroline on Wednesday night before my shift started. It was so fun working that night while they were in the hospital. I will admit-- I snuck down to the nursery a few times to hold her during the night. I felt so special to have held her during her first night in this world. I know she'll never remember it, but I always will! Welcome, Caroline!

Just like Ellie...

I snapped this shot while Caroline and I were rocking in the nursery. I sent it to Uncle Andrew so that he could she her pretty eyes open

Miss Caroline and me in the nursery. Don't you just love her little hat?

I am...

...officially the worst blogger ever. It's so true. What a double standard that I have. In previous posts, I've complained that our life is pretty normal and boring without anything to blog about. Now, we're so crazy busy with all life's changes that I hardly make time to blog anymore. Oh, the irony!

Anyway, since I've been such a horrible blogger over the past little bit (yes, I know it's been three months at least), I thought I'd post some pictures with the updates to at least make up for how slack I've been.

1. In mid-February (this is a big one)....


We bought a house!!!!!!!!!!!






We are loving being new home owners, and feel blessed with the perfect house for us...although I'm not saying that it's perfect. We've done a ton of yard work, and the pool has transformed from a "swamp" to the wonderful place the we enjoyed just today after church. It's so nice having some room to spread out, but the more space...the more you need to fill up that space. We're trying to take it slow and do a little bit at a time, but my most commonly used phrase is currently, "Well, if I had a million dollars we could...!" Anyway, we love the new house and are having a lot of fun with it! I'll post some before and after pictures soon, although we haven't changed all too much (except for a pepto pink room or two!)

2. We also are pleased to announce the newest member of the Winburn family:

Miss Maya Edisto Winburn

here's Miss Priss with one of her sisters on the day we got her

passed out on the tile kitchen floor

Andrew spoiling her in the den. She is not an inside dog, by the way,

although all of these pictures might suggest otherwise.

asleep on Andrew's bow...precious!

This was the day that we got her...and she's grown so much since a little over four weeks ago!

3. My best friend got married!


We were so excited to be able to share Chris and Camille's wedding with them in on May 6th! Her wedding was so beautiful, the food was amazing, the band was great, and we had a wonderful time! Of course, Camille was just gorgeous. Chris--glowing at the sight of her. Ahh, love! I need to post some pictures, but my blogger decided to start acting up!

4. I turned 27. Yuck! That's all I'm going to say about that!



More news:


Our third niece will be here next Wednesday, and we cannot wait to meet Baby Hardwick #3. We also learned a couple of weeks ago that Baby Turner #3 (our 6th niece/nephew) will be here sometime around the new year. So, things are busy with babies in our family. It's exciting!

Our church (generation church) just moved into a new location. We are no longer a portable church! For those of you who have never un-packed and re-packed your church each week, you may not know how truly exciting this is for us! Our new location is 1051 Sparkleberry Ext (right in the middle of northeast Columbia!) We LOVE it, and are truly thankful to God for providing all good things!

We're heading to Louisiana tomorrow for a friend of Andrew's wedding. This should be a very interesting trip, and I'm looking forward to spending time with Andrew! Yay! Sadly, we'll have to leave Miss Maya behind, but she'll be in the capable care of my brother and parents over the weekend. We're so thankful for them and know she'll have a fun vacation from her parents. :-)

Randomness:


Favorite website right now: zulily.com


Most exciting thing right now: New house, new dog, supportive husband, growing church, working with babies, and enjoying it (even if I am a little sleep deprived most of the time)


Most irritating thing right now: passive aggressive behavior (If you want to be ugly, just do it. Don't try to be sneaky and pretend you don't know what you're doing. Of course, you "meant it that way...") Disclaimer: I fully accept the reality of my imperfections, but this kind of behavior is just childlike, and I'm coming across it a lot lately. Which brings me to my next point...


Most irritating thing about myself lately: Trying to deal with the actions of others that bother me completely on my own and not being honest with the person about it. God is teaching me a lot about this.


Most overused phrases in the Winburn household right now:


"That's a hot mess..." (meagan)

"Mother of pearl..." (andrew)

"Hey Maya-girl!" (andrew)

"Maya-----no!" (both)


Best coupon deal recently: free Pedigree dentastix for Maya last month! She loved them. Too bad they're all gone now!

Favorite artist right now: Adele

Person who should have won American Idol this year: Pia (unreal talent!)

Pool temperature today when I checked it: 84 degrees....yes ma'am!!!! Summer is here!

Ok, I think that's about all for now. I promise, I will try to start blogging more often. However, I've said that before!

The Big Three-One!!!!!!

Last week, Andrew turned 31! I'd kept him in suspense over his birthday surprise during his birthday week, and it almost killed us both! Finally, on Friday (his birthday), I was able to let it out!

We went to...

We stayed at...

We ate at...

(except we were in Charlotte, of course!)

Andrew normally HATES his birthday. He doesn't really care to make a big deal about himself, which is exactly why I wanted to do something special for him. Morton's was amazing. My cousin, Jan recommended it to us. I think it's safe to say that it's the best steak I've ever had. The asparagus was the size of cigars, and we had an amazing piece of key lime pie for dessert (complete with a candle for Andrew's birthday). The servers were so sweet, and they took a picture of us when we sat down. Later, they put the picture in a card signed by the staff. Overall, it was a great experience, and I'd definitely recommend it to anyone!

So...Happy Birthday, Andrew! You are a wonderful husband and my very best friend. I am thrilled to be sharing this life with you and can't wait to live all the great times in years to come! Love you! ;-)

26 = the age of forgetfulness

This week hasn't been good in one particular way. It's safe to say that I'm either losing my mind, extremely fatigued or going into a state of pre-mature alzheimer's. This is not a joke. Today, I managed to buy a loaf of bread...just like I did on Monday! Seriously, two loaves of bread within a few days of each other??? Just when I thought my brain couldn't get any sharper, I arrived home and my sweet hubby helped me unload groceries. As I popped the trunk open, I totally failed to remember that I had one of Andrew's birthday gifts "hidden" there! At least I got to see the expression on his face when he saw it. He was surprised!!!! It's just unfortunate that it had to be today instead of February 4th. I think I did something else forgetful today, but if you'll believe this...I've forgotten. Andrew is giving me a bed time curfew of 9:30 tonight.

Fortunately, I was able to use all remaining brain power to "coupon" today. I did extremely well between Publix and Bi-Lo. 15cent sour cream, free mustard, free pizza (aka dinner) and Blue Bell ice cream were some of the highlight buys. The ice cream wasn't free, but it's Blue Bell ice cream, so it's normally $7. Any time I can get Blue Bell for less than 1/2 the price, it's a win!

In other news (and very random news at that), Andrew had a great experience at the gym on Monday. I probably shouldn't get into all of the details, but here we go. Andrew was doing more sets of reps on a workout machine than normal. A sweet little older man came up to him to ask if the exercise put strain on the abdomen. When Andrew said "no," the man told Andrew that he was glad because he'd just had hernia surgery. Andrew politely said, "Oh, yeah. I know that's not fun, because I've had hernia surgery before." Out of nowhere, the man leaned down closer to Andrew and asked, "Does your OTHER testicle hurt??" Now, I was not there to witness this interaction, but knowing Andrew as I do, I think it's safe to say that his face got a little red as he made the jaw-dropping reaction to this question. Andrew quickly responded that his hernia surgery was not in "that location," and the man let Andrew know that his "other testicle" was indeed hurting. After telling the man that he ought to have that looked at, the conversation sort of died from there. Thank goodness! I knew I shouldn't let Andrew go to the gym by himself. It's not the girls in short shorts that I'm worried about. It's Andrew getting involved in a testicle conversation. That, I don't think he can handle again! Ok, I can't believe that I just typed this. To be honest with you, Andrew made me. In fact, he is sitting here beside me crying laughing! It is a funny story though, and I'm sorry if anyone feels that this was inappropriate.

Well, it's after 9:30 now. We're watching American Idol, and Andrew has given me permission to stay up until 10. Ok, time for bed.

Because Andrew said so...

So, here I am...blogging. Andrew suggested that I start getting on here every other day just to update people on the randomness of our lives. Well, on a random note, I don't know if any of you remember, but I used to have a cute little signature at the conclusion of each blog--"Meagan" (of course), since I'm the only one who actually writes on this blog. However, Andrew got a little jealous of the signature. So, the signature is no more. I am going to suggest that he contribute to this blog occasionally, because he's very funny and...it would just be awesome!

Today after church, Andrew and I joined some people for Mexican. We drove about 15 minutes to this hole in the wall place. I probably couldn't tell you how to make it back there, but oh my goodness. The food was great! A few of our friends who went are full-blooded Mexicans, and Andrew scored the "quote of the day" saying, "I just love going to eat Mexican food with Mexicans!" Classy, babe. I do see where he was coming from, though. Mark and Teresa knew exactly how to order for everyone there based on what their tastes were. I, the boring and predictable one, got my usual combo (cheese dip and chicken quesadilla). It was one good plate of boring and predictable though! The best part of eating today was probably the conversation. We were there with a few couples who've been married for 20+ years and at some point, the conversation turned to marriage. It was interesting to hear how "all women are the same," and "how difficult it is to buy women gifts." I guess married men of all ages share the same struggles involving women. And...without taking this any further, I would think the same thing is true for women!

This week, we received our year end giving statements from the church. I am not bringing this up to brag in any way, but prioritizing giving to church is extremely important. We gave much more than I ever expected we would/could. It is just great to see how God allows us to put our money where our mouth is...literally. Andrew and I both agreed that we hoped to give even more next year. Personally, I don't feel that giving stops with monetary contributions. I feel that we can all give more, especially in the areas of our time, energy and talents. God is faithful, and he will use our contributions far better and for far greater things than we could ever imagine or do ourselves!!

We hope to hear some news this week with the house. We are waiting specifically for the seller to give us a response that could potentially make or break the sale. I guess that the gravity of all the unknown stuff could be stressful, but honestly Andrew and I are comfortable with whatever happens at this point. Hopefully, we'll be sharing some good news about the house in one of our future posts!!!

My friend since high school, Jennifer "Young" Peace is pregnant with Baby #2, and we are so thrilled for the Peace family! I can't imagine a happier or more precious baby than Bradford, but I'm sure he or she will be just as adorable. Bradford just turned one year old this week, so they are surely in for a treat this year. I can't wait!!!!!!!! Congratulations, Eliot, Jennifer, and Big Brother Bradford!

Ok, I think that's all for now. Until next time...

We're still here...

I'm not quite sure if anyone even reads this blog anymore, since I've become pretty lazy about updating it. Call me crazy, but I just haven't thought that our lives have anything worth blogging about. Well, the other day I started thinking about how busy we've been. So, I decided to bring you up to speed--that is for anyone still reading!

Work: I've taken a new position in the newborn nursery. I absolutely love working with babies and their parents. I don't think that I'll ever be able to work with another age group. Babies are just better! Think about it-- wouldn't you rather change a diaper on a baby than an adult? The best part of the job change for me is the fact that I no longer work the weekend!!!!!!!! Ahhhh!!!!!!!!!

Church: Church is still going well, and we're in the middle of contemplating another move...to a better location. We have added some new families and things are really starting to fall into place. We sent a great offering to the Oliver Gospel Mission in downtown Columbia for Christmas, and it was so great contributing to such a wonderful organization! I am still singing every Sunday and Gavin even plays drums for us occasionally. Andrew is continuing as the main teaching/preaching pastor, and I must say that he's doing a wonderful job. He tells partially un-true stories involving me (the innocent wife) at times, but it's okay. I know he's just trying to make a point.

House!!!!: We have put and had an offer accepted on a house. Nothing's final yet, since we are in the process of inspections and all that jazz. We are hopeful...more to come on this later! I don't want to say too much at this point.

Random:

1. We just bought a new camera, and we love it!!! No more waiting for 5 seconds from the time you hit the button til the camera actually takes the picture!!!!! Andrew and I both got some money for Christmas, so we chose to combine it for an even better gift. Thanks to all who contributed the funds!!!!!! Hopefully, you'll see a lot of pics on here now...since picture taking will be fun, new and exciting!

2. We are becoming faithful members of the gym. You know you're going regularly when the people at the desk know you by name...before they scan your ID card! ;-) I can feel myself getting healthy again...and I like it. Now, if I could only give up the sweets. Cannot.do.it. :-(

3. I am currently killing my husband in Wii basketball. Yes!

4. I am currently killing my husband in Wii frisbee, table tennis, and most other Wii sports.

5. Andrew is barely beating me in Wii bowling and archery.

6. I accidentally was playing with Darcy (Sara Lynn's new dog) and not balancing correctly on the Wii fit board recently. Now, my Wii fit age is........drumroll...........39 years old. Wow, didn't see that one coming.

7. Olive Garden's unlimited soup and salad on Sunday for lunch has currently been one of our #1's. The chicken gnocchi rocks. Please, go try it!

8. Andrew got Mike Holmes' "Holmes Magazine" subscription for Christmas. He's so excited...you should see his face right now! I really hope we get this house. It seems as if he may have some projects to tackle right away! ;-)

9. This Christmas, we were able to spend time with both sides of my extended family. We spent Christmas afternoon with Andrew's family.

10. I hope this doesn't sound like a rant, but if I hear one more teacher (or anyone for that matter) complain about going back to work tomorrow (after being out of school for the past six school days)...I will scream. Well, not really scream...but I would like to say "Come on, people!" Yes, South Carolina did just have the Blizzard of '11 which crippled our state. However, some of us having been working every day through the whole thing. I love my job, but some of us don't even get national holidays...or three month summer breaks. That's all I have to say ;-)

On that note...I think I should go to bed!!!