Rebecca Elledge [dot] com

A few things have been happening in the OP. First of all, it is freaking frigid. I feel like we live in the Artic versus the middle of the country. It's been a long, cold, wet, snowy winter and I am sooo tired of it. Wish we were going somewhere warm for Spring Break. It's to the point where people are depressed (okay maybe just me) that it is just gross outside.
I started a new job the 2nd week of January. I spent a week in NY, where it is equally just as cold and snows to some extent everyday. They joke that it is Ground Hog Day there Nov - March. The office is located in Albany, along the banks of the Hudson River. Beautiful country, I am sure it is really pretty in the Spring, Summer and Fall with all the foliage. I'm told the train ride to NYC is gorgeous, may have to do that some time, when I'm up there.

Braelyn, Brody and Spencer are doing well. Brody is growing up so big. I just love the little man so much. Braelyn is such a treat. Her smile is infectious. What a wonderful personality. Spencer is doing well too. He started 2nd Semester of his Sophmore year. He's growing up way too fast. I remember when he was Brae's age, full of energy and never slowed down.

Ryan is leaving for FL in a week or so for work. Some conference that he "has" to go to...whatever. I think it is an excuse to get out of the freaking cold...take me with you honey! I'm sure it will be a week of meetings, shows, dinners at Captial Grille...oh they have the best coconut cream pie! In fact he will be there tomorrow night for a board dinner...hmmm. Maybe I need to be on the board of something. Anyone have any ideas? Anyway, he has been busy with work. He started working out a couple of weeks ago and I think he enjoys it. I think he enjoys sitting in the hot tub and sauna after his workouts even more.

I'm working out in the mornings, at the gym at 5:00 am. I ran this morning, think my legs are going to give out on me at anytime. I'm bound and determined to be swim suit ready and in the best shape of my life by the time we head South in July. I was at my skiniest and most active when I hit 30 - I can get there again, right? So, it's back to eating right, and working out 5 days a week. My motivation, looking at myself in the mirror - gross!

Ryan's parents are in or are headed to sunny LA...so jealous! Steve has a conference (what's the deal with these conferences in warm locals???) and Vickie is spending some time with Lynda and Fred, and haning out with her dad. Should be a good trip for both of them. My parents are doing great. My mom is planning a trip with her sisters this summer. Not sure where they are going, but I know they will enjoy being together. Mom and Dad are watching the little ones on Saturday night so Ryan and I can do something for Valentine's Day (yes I know that V-Day is on Sunday). I am looking forward to a night off.

Try to stay warm and be safe!

Today is Nov 30th, 2009. Today is the day that I started my "Get Skinny Plan". I figure if I blog about getting skinny, that holds me accountable. So...every Monday you can choose to read about my progress !
So, I got on the scales this morning, and thanks to my wonderful in-laws, I gained 3 lbs last week eating lots of yummy food. And since I had lost 2.9 lbs the week before Thanksgiving, I'm basically back where I started. Oh well, definitely worth it!
My plan is to work out every day, or atleast 5 days a week and start eating less sweets and snacks. AND yes, I did bypass the delicious looking fudge that Joe's wife Danielle made and brought to work today. Not very easy when you are warming up your Weight Watcher's low fat, no taste meal after working out (and when you are STARVING)! But I did it, I think I'll pat myself on the back.
Tonight, I'm making spaghetti  - hate spaghetti but the family loves it. Guess I'll eat a salad and some soup. Need to brush my teeth right after I eat so I won't be tempted to raid the pantry.

Check back next week, if you want and I'll let you know how it is going...the scale had better be going down!

Getting Skinny for "The Elledge Family Vacation" only 8 months to go!

It is that time of the year where we all usually reflect on our lives, realize how lucky we are and thank God that we have been able to live another year. This week marks my Grandpa Bradshaw's 10h year death anniversary. He died on 11/16/99. It seems just like yesterday, the time has gone by so quickly. I really wish Ryan, Braelyn and Brody had a chance to meet him. He was a wonderful man. Strong, quiet (a lot like my dad) and very caring. He always was widdling things out of wood and giving it to his grandkids. My Grandma Bradshaw celebrated her 90th Birthday with a party on Saturday (11/14) with her entire family. I think it was the first time all of us have been together since my grandpa's funeral. It was nice to see everyone, and enjoy being together.
I am very lucky to have my health, my amazing husband and three wonderful kids. I also have been blessed with Ryan's family. In fact we leave on Sunday for our trip to Casper (I pray that Brody and Brae do okay on the plane), we will be there through the following Saturday. My parents are headed to Chris and Sandy's house to celebrate Turkey Day.
On Monday, Nov 30, I head back to work after being able to spend 10 weeks off with Brody. He is an awesome little boy who is going to grow up to be a left handed pitcher for a MLB team (or so Ryan hopes). Braelyn is a blast too, I love that little girl. She is our princess, and can only do wrong when she's climbing on things. It's been nice to be home when Spencer gets here too. I know he is staying out of trouble. In fact, he is doing great in school this year. All A's and B's and a C in Desktop Publishing. Not bad - huge change from last year.
We'll see how things change when I go back to work. It's been nice being able to make decent dinners, instead of those out of a box or something that has been in the freezer.
In December, Ryan and I are going to Vegas with Eli and Heather Bowman. I am very excited as it turns out we will be out there over my b-day. Super excited about that. Dave Matthews and Tim Reynolds is playing at PH, and we have tickets for two nights. I think we are going to try to see a show one night too. Should be a blast.
Well, the little man is waking up and I need to get back to getting things accomplished here.

Hope everyone has a Happy Thanksgiving, and is able to spend time with your loved ones!

So the last time I was on here to "blog" was 3 1/2 months ago (a long time ago). A lot of things have changed in 3 months. I am bigger, more pregnant and definitely have more frequent (ask my poor husband and son). I feel like I am on an emotional roller coaster some days. Keeping up with the Braelyn, Spencer, house, work and other things tends to drain me. But, less than two weeks I'll be bringing home a new bundle of a joy, a brother for Spencer and Braelyn. I do hope that they both adjust well, I know that Spencer will, I'm worried about Brae. She has adjusted well to her new bed (she's fallen out once, I hope that is it).
School has started back up (going on our 4th full week). Spencer is busy with soccer practice, games and so far is doing really well in school. I'm proud of him. Ryan has been busy with work. The sold off a portion of Aplus.Net, and rebranded the existing company. In fact I think he goes to FL here in a couple of weeks to promote the new company on FOX or CNN. Pretty exciting stuff. He was supposed to go to Washington to the Gorge for his annual DMB concert. He decided not to go this year due to the baby. I know it wasn't because of my melt down on Thursday night. I was scared that he would be gone and miss the birth of his son. I'd be all alone, and not know what to do. He's an amazing husband to give up time with his pals (some are from England), his friend from Vegas and of coure DMB for me and little Brody. As it turns out, Brody hasn't arrived all though I feel like he could make his entrance into the world at anytime.
Went to the doctor on Friday. I'm dialated to a 3 and am 50% effaced. I guess I could have the little man at anytime. I was a 4 when I was admitted into the hospital with Brae. I know I am ready, but in a way not ready. I still have so much to do with his room, like bedding, a light, getting things a little more organized, and a bassinet for him to sleep in. When I had Brae I was so prepared, this time I am not at all. I still have a lot of things to finish up at work. I need to get things finished this week. My plan is take the 17th off, and then have the little man on the 18th.
I'll be ready to get my body back in shape, and to get into a routine again. You can say I've been slacking the last 7 months. I have eaten whatever I want and have enjoyed it. Unfortunately my butt shows it. I'm bound and determined to lose the 30 lbs I have gained and then lose 5 more than where I started. Fingers crossed by the end of the year (or earlier I'll have met my goal). There are a new pair of jeans that I have my eyes on!

Well, I'm done blogging for the night. Going to go relax and finish my lemonade.

As the title states, WANTED...helpers to clean out the garage this weekend. I'll provide beer, broom, power washer and a 16.8 month old little helper, that is as cute as can be.

If you couldn't guess, Ryan and I will be doing some "spring cleaning" around the Elledge casa this weekend. The garage is #1 on our priority list, followed by the laundry room (on my list) and possibly Ryan's office (on his list????). Our garage hasn't been cleaned in well, I don't know how long. At least a year and maybe longer. It is a huge disaster. One would think you could get 4 cars into a four car garage, but I'm amazed that we can get two cars in there currently.

Tonight its laundry and cleaning...not too exciting for a Friday night.

It's going to be a beautiful weekend here in OP. In the mid 80's and sunny. A great weekend to be at the lake, but we opted to stay back and clean...we are crazy! I'm going to take Brae to our neighborhood pool Saturday or Sunday for her to splash around a bit. It's been a short, but long week. Work is crazy, and I don't see that changing anytime soon.

Spencer is headed to his dad's tonight and then to Grandma Linda and Grandpa Bill's on Saturday night, after the Royals game. He is then leaving for Florida for a week's vacation beginning Thursday - wish I were going!  Ryan's parents set (I think I used that word correctly) out on a week long road trip, I think they left today. I think there stops include Denver, OKC, Memphis, Branson (yee-haw) and OP for a night. It'll be nice to see them, if only for a day or so.  They will be back this direction towards the end of the month, but next time they will be bringing Stephanie, Ashley and Stephen with them. Mike has to work (bummer, I know he needs a vacation too)! I hope the weather is nice and not too hot while they are here. Should have a lot of fun things to do for them....maybe we should hold off cleaning the garage until then...hmmmm.

School is now out (as of Wednesday, 5/27) - I think I am happier than Spencer is. Braelyn can sleep in about 30 minutes later in the morning, and I don't have to leave the house at 7:10 am and do my normal 30 minute drop-off routine. It's to Deb's and then to work. Crazy to think that next school year I'll have another little one to tote around.

Well, I am finishing up my day early. Need to get Spencer and take him to his dad's girlfriend's office tonight. I'm not sure how I got suckered into that. Anyway, need to find my way around the Sprint campus...not going to be fun at 5:00!

Enjoy the weekend! 

First of all...TGIF! It has been a long week, long month and long year - and it's only May! I am blessed that I have a job in this crazy economy, just wish it were a little more how I say enjoyable (at least somedays).

Ryan is headed to the lake with some guys for the weekend. I'm sure they will make a pit stop at Party Cove for several hours and enjoy the "natural environment". I hope that he has a good time, he needs the break from his stressful job. Which leaves Spencer, Braelyn and me. Spencer is going to a SOLD OUT Royals game tonight and then spending the weekend with Kevin. Now that leaves just Braelyn and me, we are going to veg tonight, while doing laundry and cleaning. Tomorrow we are going to plant flowers and enjoy being outside. Sunday - we have Jacob's b-day party to attend and that is it. It should be a nice weekend.

School is out in less than two weeks. I know I'm ready for it to be out, and I think Spencer is too. He is going on vacation in June for a week with Grandpa Bill and Grandma Linda. I think they will have a ton of fun. I can't think of a better way to spend a week but lounging by the pool and basking in the sun...so jealous!

We are going to attempt to drive to CO next weeknd for Nate's graduation. We are driving, but I say attempt because it is our first "road trip" with Princess. It may very well be our last road trip...!

We have several big events this summer/fall. #3 will be born at the end of June, that's right Spencer is going to be another Big Brother, and Brae will be a big sis. We are due around 9/20 and are very excited. I can't wait to get started on the little boy's room. My oldest baby, is turning 16 in August!!! Both of my grandma's (Brownsberber and Bradshaw) turn the big 9-0 this year. I have a cousin getting married on 9/19 (i hope to be there) and a good friend of mine is getting married at the end of August. Kind of a crazy summer for us.

Update on Hoover and Sophie. Hoover made it through his surgery with flying colors. If we can just get him to relax now (I think a tranqulizer might be needed). He can't relax, he wants to be where everyone else is, and around everyone. I can't blame him - I know that being stuck in a room is no fun. Only 6 more weeks pup. We had a scare with Sophie earlier in the week. She was not doing well at all. I took her to the vet, they gave her meds and know more blood in either her stools or vomit.

This is long enough, and I'm tired of typing. Enjoy all and we will see everyone soon!

I’m so glad that America voted Obama and his gang of dems to “save” the country (pause) NOT! I don’t see anywhere in “his” stimulus plan where this will help the unemployed NOW...like today and tomorrow now. Where is the help for the small to medium size companies that are feeling the pinch because the banks and auto makers can’t manage their money correctly?  Who is going to help the families that are barely making ends meet?  Will they run out and buy a new car in 2009 so they can write off the tax???
You can read about the winners and losers of the “stimulus” package. As guessed the LOSERS are the military, Veterans and FBI…let’s not help those who have fought for our freedom, continue to fight for our freedom and help keep us safe from idiots!
Only 1,436 days left until we have the right to vote for a new Prez…will we have a country left?

Come on!

Here we are, another cold day in Kansas City.  I think it is a whopping 7 degrees outside right now.  At least it is clear and sunny, that's the silver lining there.  Now that we have officially had 3 weeks of winter, I am ready for spring.  No more cold morning or windy afternoons. No more snow and ice, just warm sunshine please.  I guess I'd have to move somewhere other than the midwest for warm sunshine in January...maybe someday.  Till then I'll deal with the weather here.
Braelyn turned one last Friday.  I can't believe my precious little princess is 1, it seems like yesterday (I know that is overally used but, its true) that she came into this world and we were bringing her home from the hospital.  I'm enjoying every minute with her, because they grow up way too fast.  Spencer will be 16 this year, and I swear I don't know where the time has gone.
We have another busy weekend ahead of us.  Ryan is having a poker and UFC Fight party at the house on Saturday night.  I'm going out with the girls to celebrate Stephanie's birthday.  Sunday is Cayse's birthday party.  Today he turns 6 - Happy Birthday Cayse!
Will we ever have a weekend where we get do nothing and just enjoy being at home...I hope so!  I don't think we have any plans the next weekend!
Well enough rambling...I really didn't have much to say!

I am not a fan of the snow.  I have been running around to client meetings all day and have decided that I don't like snow.  I don't mind it when I don't have to get out in it, and I can just watch it come down.
Here we are two weeks away from Christmas and I don't have any of my shopping done.  I am planning on knocking it out this weekend.  So, get your lists to me now if you want anything...just kidding, but I do need ideas!

Brae will be a year old in a month.  I have already started looking at invitations and cake ideas.  Planning birthday parties for little Brae will be so much fun.  Spencer's parties were fun too, but boys are easy.  It's the girls that pay attention to detail, okay well maybe just the mom's. 

Well...need to run, just wanted to mention that I hate snow and that my Christmas shopping was not done.

It's snowing outside.  Our first snow of the year, althoug it's not sticking, not quite cold enough for that yet.  Ryan is at the Murphy's taking pics of the kids for a Christmas card.  Braelyn is crawling on Hoover trying to get to the table in the living room...oh wait, he moved.  Braelyn has reached the table and is now opening the drawers. I am watching the MU - KU game.  GO MIZZOU!  MU just scored, are down 10-7 with 11 minutes left in the 2nd quarter.  I want MU to stomp KU again.  I realize that I live in Kansas, and just 40 minutes from Lawrence, but I grew up in Missouri - I'm loyal.
'
Ryan and I are going to dinner and a movie with Gabe and Stephanie tonight.  We are going to meet them for a movie, "Four Christmases" and then to Capital Grille for dinner.  I am craving some cocunut cream pie, but I won't eat it.  Ryan don't let me! 

This will be another short week for work.  I leave on Thursday morning at 6 am for Naples, FL with Stephanie and four other friends for a girls weekend.  I can't wait.  Four days setting at the pool and hanging out at the beach.  Can't wait...I need the break.  My friend Holly is coming over on Thursday night to help Ryan with Braelyn and then Ryan will take Brae to mom and dad's on Friday afternoon and will pick her up sometime on Sunday.  Spencer will be at his dad's next weekend.  Ryan will have a nice quiet weekend at home with Hoover and Sophie.

MU just sacked KU's quarterback.  Too bad he got up, not that I want him hurt too bad, just out for the game.  Braelyn is tearing up what was my Pottery Barn catalog.  I guess that is one way to keep me from buying something. 

Spencer has spent the weekend with his dad. He's been over there since Wednesday, I miss him.  I know Brae misses him too, she crawls around babbling Bub, Bub, Bub.  Ryan misses his Guitar Hero partner too.

Miss Brae is tired, I think its time for a nap and she's eating paper...nice!

Enjoy the rest of the long weekend!
R.

Braelyn has mastered stairs...need I say more!

Braelyn Grace Elledge, Brae, Brae-Brae, BGE...our almost 10 month old who is now pulling herself up, crawling everywhere, loves to shut and open any kind of drawer, cabinet and door has made several huge milestones in the last month.  She will be taking her first step by the first of December, or so I think.  Where does the time go.  I remember last time this year we were preparing for her arrival.  Crazy how time flies.  One other thing that she has almost mastered is the word da-da.  Ryan has really been working with her (and I have too) trying to get her to say da-da and figure out who da-da really is.  After that it is one to ma-ma!

I think it is about time Hoover and da-da get another BGE moment documented!  What do ya think?!?!

I can't believe the time has flown by this fast...its amazing the changes that she has gone through over the last 9 months.  She is crawling, has two teeth and is the sweetest thing you will ever see.  Soon she will be walking...YIKES!

Ryan and I are down to less than two weeks left until we leave KC for sunny, warm, relaxing Maui.  I am very much looking forward to this trip.  We both need the break, Ryan more so than me.  We both need to unwind, relax and just chill for a week.  I started looking at another island to visit, Kauai and Kona look pretty cool.  Airfare is pretty cheap to either location, under $300 for both of us roundtrip.  So we'll see...if anyone has any suggestions, let me know.

So, back to the "It is so on!"...now that we have less than two weeks to go, I really need to buckle down and get the last 5 lbs off.  I'm down 10, but my goal was and is 15.  I kind of screwed up this weekend, I tend to do that.  I got up at 4:30 this morning and went to the gym, I ran a couple of miles at lunch and hope to do the same tomorrow...although I have a lunch meeting.  BUT, I will get up at 4:30 and head to the gym tomorrow morning...note to self, set the alarm.

Okay, speaking of alarms our two alarms (Hoover and Sophie) are ready to come in from outside.

"It's so on"...Rebecca

A lot of things have changed since my last blog report.  Spencer made the soccer team and is goalie for BVNW.  Their record is 2-1, they lost last night to a very tough Blue Valley North team.  Braelyn is officially crawling, is able to go from lying down to sitting up and has a tooth!  It's amazing what a weekend will do to a 8 1/2 month old.
Ryan is busy at work.  He has a board meeting on Wednesday, so he will be working late tonight on his presentation.  We are getting ready for two big events.  Our 3rd Annual Elledge Spook-tacular Halloween Bash and a trip to Maui.  I can't wait for either one of them, but I am truly ready for our vacation.  It will be nice to get away from work for a week.  I will miss the kids a lot, but I know they will enjoy spending time with the grandparents.  Braelyn is going to Grandma Vickie and Grandpa Steve's while Spencer is spending time with my mom and dad.  I know both kids will be, what do you call it...oh yeah, SPOILED.  But it will be worth it, the kids don't get to spend a lot of time with the grandparents.
I am trying very hard to get in shape before the trip.  I've lost 6 pounds, just need to lose 6 more.  I'm hitting the gym at least once, but sometimes twice a day.  I am going running with the girls here at work over lunch.  I need to cut down on eating too, didn't do so great this weekend.  Ryan and I drove through Backyard Burger on Saturday...I love Backyard Burger...they have waffle fries .
Well need to go...till later!

R.