Vegmom Moments

Vegetarian Book - So Cute!

Benji Bean Sprout Doesn't Eat Meat Is a book about a boy that is called names for eating differently.  His family is Vegetarian but he decides he wants a hamburger so the kids at school will quit teasing him.

His Dad takes him to a farm to learn more about WHY he is a Vegetarian and then he can make his own decisions.  Does Benji still decide to have a hamburger, or does he realize that eating meat isn't the right decision for him???  Buy the book to see the answer!!  hee hee  *smile*

It is a great kids book and does explain the difference between factory farming and open range farms with out getting too deep in to the cruelty aspects.  And I totally agree with the Dad taking Benji to a farm and sharing the truth, then letting Benji make his decision.  For those of us who can't get to a farm, reading this book will have to do.

The best part about the whole book is the back cover... It has a picture of Benji wearing a TShirt that says "GO VEG"

Gotta love that!!

GETTING WHAT I WANT THE REDIRECTING WAY

I think today was the biggest redirecting day ever.. Veg was a little bit of a fuss bucket and I happened to be patient enough to let my redirecting kick in.....If your a Mom or a wife you must try this... Its starting to become quite enjoyable.

CASE STUDY #1-

"I don't want to brush my teeth"

<OK, so don't.  But while your not brushing your teeth, you also won't be doing anything else>

"I want something to eat"

<Yup, after you brush>

"I'm thirsty"

<I'm sure you are, but you'll still be thirsty after you brush>

"Fine, I'll brush, but your doing it, I'm not"

<OK, but can you show me how you like it done>

"Just like this Mom, let me show you"

and he brushes all his teeth!  SUCCESS #1

CASE STUDY #2 -

"I don't want any fruit for breakfast, I just want bread"

<OK> as I'm cutting apples and putting them on a plate with peanut butter

"I don't want Peanut butter either, I just want bread"

<OK> as I place the plate with both peanut butter and apples on the table in front of him.

"Fine, I'll eat the peanut butter, but only by dunking it on my bread.  I won't eat those apples"

<OK> I say again, and walk away to grab my self some apples to eat

"You can't eat those, they are my apples"

<but you don't want apples.  So I'll eat these>

"Fine but I want cookies for dessert"

<Sure, if your still hungry after eating everything on your plate, then you can have your cookies>

"Ok, but I'm only eating these apples, I'm not eating the ones you ate"

As he eats everything on his plate, gets his cookies and is happy as can be!  SUCCESS #2

CASE STUDY #3 - (the best of the whole day - a double whammy, pure Mommy genius)

I started putting the new sprinkler together this morning (the one I bought for the boys to use on my business trip that was still in the box when I got back)  I was determined to get them outside today while I was working.

"I'm not playing with that today"

<OK, I'm just putting it together>

"Well I'm not going to use it"

<Thats fine>

I put all the little pieces together and start to head outside

"Where are you going"

<Outside to attach the hose to the sprinkler>

"But I'm not playing in that today"

<OK>

Hook up the sprinkler, the little flappy things go crazy and some of them stick to the ground and don't spray right.... Insert Hubby in to the picture.  I walk back inside!

"Daddy, she's hooking up my sprinkler and I don't want to play in it"

{why are you hooking up the sprinkler if he isn't going to play in it}

<Because you and I are going to run threw it>

{No, I'm not... I'm not going in that thing}

<just pretend, go get your shoes on and come outside>

And he does... And he sees that there are parts of the sprinkler not spraying right, so he has to fix, and fiddle, and play until he is pretty much soaked... All the while, Veg is coming to the door crying, because we are playing in the sprinkler and he isn't.

<So come out side and play>

"But I need my bathing suit"

He is now dressed and ready to play.... He goes outside and I say to hubby "show him how that works"

{No, I need to get my bathing suit on first}

Before long, hubby and Veg are running like maniacs, super heroes and just down right loony birds through the sprinkler... I too got my share of wet, and then said "Since your having so much fun, I'm going in"

Hubby screams out {Wait a minute?  How did I get sucked in to this}

And Veg says "come on daddy lets play"

And I say SUCCESS #3

ha ha ha ha!!!!

ORIGAMI TOILET PAPER

Sometimes I love the days I get to work from home... If I weren't here today, I would have missed the "Project"....

"Mom, come see the project I did" 

Admittingly I was a bit nervous, knowing he'd just been in the bathroom making this project. 

"Look, in the toilet!!" he says

So I do, and only see a bunch of toilet paper!

"See, its Origami, I made that project just for you.  You can keep it if you want"

<Well thank you, It is great, but I think we'll let the Toilet keep that project"

*FLUSH*

BLACK WIDOW VISIT

We just found one of these in our mail box!!!  Note to self!!!  Next time I see spider webs on and around my mailbox... DON'T STICK MY HAND IN  !!!

Mrs.  Black Widow is now shmushed in the road thanks to Hubby... But not to sure about her eggs/babies that may still be trying to read my mail?  EEK!

VINEGAR - MY CLEANING FRIEND

I've posted about Vinegar before and how much I like it for cleaning everything from windows to stove tops, showers to floors.  But I had never tried it on Carpet stains (thinking it would fade the carpet)

Until a really great Mom told me to try it on the left over critter Blood stain from my dog...  Not only did it work, but you can't tell anything ever happened. 

We had washed, soaked, shampooed, and used even my trusty Nature's Miracle.  But nothing worked on this one single part of the carpet.  All the other cleaned up fine, but not this giant circle... Until I wet a washcloth and poured some vinegar on it.  Then rubbed in to the carpet.  Let me tell you, it STUNK.. not just the vinegar smell, but the vinegar smell doing its job on that nasty stuff.  A few minutes later the stain and stink were gone!

Thank You, Great Mom - you know who you are!  *SMILE*

THE CEREAL TOY

It finally happened, my Lil'Veg noticed there are toys and characters on the boxes in the Cereal Isle.  Up till now, I would explain those cereals with the flashy colors don't have healthy ingredients.  Or they have things that can upset his tummy.  We've even gone so far to explain what that fake stuff can do. 

He understands that the cereals we buy are packed full of nutrients and healthy ingredients.  He also knows that they taste good, so we have no problems.

But... Then he noticed a spiderman toy on the front of a cereal Box as we were walking by.  "Hey Mom, that cereal box has a toy in it, can we buy it?"  I then explain that we don't buy food for toys.  We buy food to eat and we buy toys to play with.  "Hmm?  OK, well what if I eat the food then play with the toy"  Again I explain about the ingredients and chemicals and blah blah blah so he agrees, that is NOT the cereal for him. 

Then Hubby walks down the same isle and I hear him say "WOW COOL, A SPIDERMAN SQUIRT TOY IN THAT CEREAL BOX, HEY, CHECK IT OUT"

<insert very dirty look from me>

Yes, he buys the cereal, Yes he brings it home....  He tells Veg "I'll eat the icky cereal so it doesn't go to waste and you can have the toy"

Ugh, Why do I bother???

By the way, you can tell its been a long time since I've purchased those boxes because we realized, you don't have to dig through the cereal box any more, they stick the toy in a bag on the side of the cereal bag.  That was half the fun, if I remember correctly... 

THE VENTI EXCUSE

While I'm still sucked in to the Starbucks Frap I'm still doing good to only get Talls.  Anything bigger seems to not agree with me now.  While Hubby on the other hand has been getting Venti's with an Extra Shot.  So not only is he getting the Extra Caffeine but also the extra sugar.  And it doesn't matter what time of day.  Could be 10pm he'd still get a Venti.

I made a statement yesterday about this being one of the culprits for his headaches (not to mention other things that I didn't say)...  So he comes home today bringing us both Talls.

He says "Did you notice I got a Tall this time?"

<Yes, I did>

"I was thinking you were right about the headaches and such so I'm just going to get Tall's for now on"

He goes on to say...

"The only reason I was getting Venti's was to save us money?"

<Umm?  And how do you suppose that works>

"Well the Venti's are only a few cents more then the Talls, and you get double the Frap.  So I'm saving money by getting the bigger one"

<OK Dear>

ATTEMPT AT MAKING APPLE JUICE

Our Lil'Veg was wanting apple juice today, and we have none.

"But we have apples, lets just make our own apple juice"

OK, that sounds very logical, lets give it a try!!!  However, I am no Betty Crocker so I had no idea how to do this....

Logically, if you cut up some apples and throw them in a processor, drain out the pulp and you should have juice.  Heck this works for Oranges in an Orange Juice Machine, right?

So we each get a cutting mat, each get a knife, and we chop up apples.  Throw all the little pieces in to the Magic Bullet and then we turn it on.  hmm?  A little too thick, Add some water... and then we taste it!  Lets just say, it DIDn't taste like apple Juice!  So we add some Agave Nector and some cinnamon for flavor.  And it STILL did Not taste like apple juice.

Our Plan Failed!  *sigh*  It was a logical option, a good effort, but not a perfect outcome!

Good thing is, I drank mine, so I ended up with the equivalent of two apples in one setting! 

An Apple A Day keeps the Doctor away, Ya no?

MOM or GRANDMA

Veg said last night:

"When I grow up and have my own kids, will you be their Mom?"

<No, I'd be their Grandma>

"But, I want you to be their Mom, your such a great Mom"

<Well thank you, But I'll be their Grandma and whom ever you marry will be their Mom> (Hopefully)

.....then quiet......  the subject was dropped.... until he woke up this morning.  He walks in my room and the first thing out of his mouth at 7am was this:

"When I have my own kids some day, can NeeNee be there Mom... I'll tell her next time we see her that she will be their Mom, OK"

<That is very sweet, but Nee Nee will be their Great Grandma not their Mom>

....then tears and sobbing  "But I don't want to be all alone with kids, I need one of you to be their Mom"

....then hugs and cuddles and more explaining.....  I tell ya, they don't put this stuff in the parenting handbook.  Who new that I would be comforting a 4 year old, worrying about the mother of his children.

DOGGY ANTIDEPRESSANTS

The Vet called this morning and he said the blood work was actually really good for an Old Dog.  So there is no explanation for her Seizure like episodes and change in behavior except that she is OLD! 

They have found that giving them antidepressants can help with the nervousness and anxiety and cognitive behavior changes.  Basically she hasn't "Turned Aggressive" where she just wants to attack everything in site.   But she gets in to a room and may not know where she is, so she'll get nervous, scared, start shaking.  At that point there is a chance of aggressive behavior because she is scared.  And he said some of the breeds that make up this Mutt, are naturally anxious anyway.  Those meds can help her during those scared times to not be so wound up.

So theres the update!  I have an Old Dog that's lost her mind.  Maybe that is what she was digging for last night?

THE DOG HAS FLIPPED

Not only did this sweet face eat an entire animal yesterday, but she also bit Hubby last night... Today she's been acting sleepy and more normal, until about an hour ago.  She started trying to dig a Hole in the carpet.  She jumped up from a dead sleep and just started digging.  I'm not sure what or where she thought she was digging, but she was getting very angry at the floor for not moving....

I almost wish I had that one on video.  Out of all this madness, that part was kind of funny!

PEOPLE AND PET WATCHING

While at the vet today I noticed so many people had a resemblance to their dogs.  My Chelsea is short with long fluffy hair (kinda like me)  A lady dressed all fancy with jewelry and snooty nose had a teeny Barky Dog with long snout and wearing a jeweled collar.  A sweet little girl with hair covering eyes walks in with a Shitzu that has hair in its eyes. 

I was laughing to my self while passing the time.  Big Tall man had a Great Dane.  Then an older man with balding white hair and scabby liver spot skin walks in holding a dog with part white fluffy hair, and part bald.  Her skin had liver spots and scabs all over just like her owner. 

The more I saw, the more it was true... until a big burley man walks in holding a little pekingese... He broke the compatibility meter, until I noticed that his hands were crippled from arthritis and he couldn't use his fingers well.  As he set the dog down, I saw the dog had crippled paws.  He was actually there for reconstructive surgery.

So the more it made me go hmmm?  I started thinking of others I know with pets and began comparing.  Except for my friend in Michigan (can't figure out her match at all) the rest seem to match perfectly.

Here is your challenge for today if you own a pet?  Think of something you have in common?  It's actually pretty fun!  *smile*  If you have several pets, then which is like you and which is like someone else in your house.  Looks?  Personality?  Emotions? 

DOG IS NOT VEG FRIENDLY

Although I know that my dogs eat animal products in their dry dog food.  And they have had many other things that prove they are certainly not Vegetarian.....  That all comes along with being a Pet Owner and I have no problems with any of it. 

How ever, what my dog did last night is something I DID NOT sign up for when making her a part of our family.  She apparently found a critter in my yard last night... Ate the Critter (tore it a part and swallowed everything but a few strands of fur) and then came inside to Puke up the Critter on my carpet.

Most pets, when they find an animal or bird, they will trot happily and bring it to their owners as a trophy.  But not MY DOG... She decided to leave me a different type of trophy  A three Foot long blood stain to be exact, along with everything else that once made up a live animal.

She is certainly not her self these days and the Old Gal may be reaching the end of her time with us.  We went to the vet today and they ran blood for Kidney and Liver function. If they come back normal, then they are going to treat her for being Senile.  Not sure what they can do for that?

But if something like that ever happens again, I think I'll have to be treated with Medication.

JELLY FISH

Random Thought -

Did you know that JellyFish, Eat, Poop, And Reproduce via the same spot on their body?  Good thing they don't have brains, or they may have some conflict of interest issues.

Why do I know way too much about jellyfish on this day!  Because Veg's questions that began the research-  Are Jellyfish really made of jelly?

DOGS - EXPLAIN THAT

My 4 year old knows that if my dogs eat people food that they get sick (physically throw up)... He also knows that toilet water is Gross and would make him sick if he touches it (I taught this very young after hearing stories of other tots) 

So How do I now explain, when he sees my female dog drinking out of the toilet bowl?  Yes, this happened today... I will now say, EWWWW!!!!!

Then there is the Dipstick!  Not the thing thats in a car, but the the little pokey thing that lives inside a boy dogs privates.  It only pops out once in a while so its rarely ever seen in our house.  To the point that I have forgotten it even existed....  Today my Sweet Sweet Caring Veg comes running up to me saying "Spunky needs aloe on his booboo" he goes on to tell me that the dog was scratching and made his privates break open and bleed.  I look over, thinking the worse, because my dog scratches when his allergies act up and has been known to make his belly bleed. 

But instead I see the "Dipstick".....

I will now say EWWWW!!!  Again, and then ask,  HOW IN THE WORLD DO I EXPLAIN THAT ONE???  Luckily Veg was busy trying to find the aloe and by the time he came back the "booboo" was gone.  So all was well.

SICK BUT THINKING DIFFERENT

First let me say that I came back from this trip feeling like crud.  Stuffy head, chest, sore throat, and exhausted.  But I didn't look at it as being sick.  I remembered from reading the book mentioned below that my Body was trying to rid itself of all that yuck.  Being around the Cats, Smoke and Allergen filled houses, along with foods that I wouldn't normally eat and chemical cleaners that I'm not used to using. 

I realized, when on our way home, I had to pee every 20 minutes, my nose was running like a faucet, sinuses were draining, ears itching and even a bit of a fever.  It was all signs of my body saying "What is this stuff and get it out of me"  Unfortunately, although I new this to be true, I still felt like crap.  And had left all my remedies at home.  So it got worse before getting better that day and when I arrived home I raided my cupboards.

In comes the BOOK (I may have mentioned some of this before so I apologize for anything duplicate):

I recently read the ABC Herbal Book for tips on Natural remedies for kids.  Its quick and easy to read but like some of the Amazon reviews stated, it doesn't do good to explain whats next.  So for example it tells you a lot of things that make sense now that I read them, and it tells you what you need to do to fix those things based on their family experiences.  But then you get to the end of the book and your kind of left with "Now What?"  I know I want to do this, but how?  I didn't plan to really go in to the mountains and pick the herbs like he did, and I don't have the time, supplies or knowledge to create my own remedies....  However, what I did learn has been invaluable and I'm so glad I purchased it.  More for me and Hubby then Veg, since much of it has applied to us more then him at this point.

Some of the stuff in the book seemed off the wall to me, like garlic oil enemas and healing through touch.  But even those don't seem so off the wall now.  I can tell you when I had a  stress headache while on our trip, I used my hand to apply pressure at the base of my neck.  Sounds silly but after a few minutes my head ache went away.  The concept is this... If the headache is caused by a blockage in the neck due to stress or swollen muscles etc.  Then simply help clear the blockage by applying pressure to that spot.  The heat from my hand, helped to get the blood flowing to that area and my headache was gone.  Maybe its all a bunch of hog wash and maybe its mind over matter, but heck, if it works then who cares.  Same goes for Bruises, Kids Lumps and Bumps, etc.

There were lots of brand names in the back of the book, along with a list of herbs that do different things.  So I took this book to the health food store one weekend, and just walked around for what seemed like hours.  Trying to decide what I would purchase and what I should stay away from.  Then I had a long chat with a lady at the counter, that helped me make even more decisions. 

Because of that I have learned sooo much in a short time.  Here is what I have found to work for us...

I have learned that drinking aloe juice internally has helped my skin and does lots of other things.  Now when I don't take it (like on my vacations), there is a huge difference....  Putting a couple drops of oregano oil under the tongue, swallowing a capsule, or rubbing the oil on our lymph nodes, can take away sore muscles, headaches, clear sinuses and stop hubby from snoring.  (supposed to do other things but I can't confirm or deny)... I also learned that putting a few drops of Oregano oil in the bathtub while the shower is running will pick the odor up in the steam and cleared my head.

Drinking Lemon water with a couple drops of Goldenseal and Echinacea took away my sore throat almost instantly the other day.  And the same thing dropped Veg's fever almost over night last week and made him well enough to travel, clearing his ears and throat.  Lemon water with a tad of honey takes away a cough too (thanks to a tip on our local Mom's site) This really worked.

Rubbing Garlic oil on certain neck and face parts and chest (lymphnodes), did seep in to my skin and help with my congestion.  (it wasn't a long term fix so I had to do this often and ended up smelling like a salad)  Good thing is, garlic also keeps the mosquitoes away.

A couple drops of Tea Tree Oil on a cool wet wash cloth laid on my forehead made my sinuses clear enough to sleep and took my headache away.

Lots of steamy showers cleared my head and being wrapped in a cotton sheet, helped my body to cool itself.

A few things to get the poop flowing and lots and lots of drinking water, going to bed early and waking in the middle of the night unable to sleep, only to start all over again.  With the goal being to help my body get rid of all the stuff that invaded while on the trip.   And by this evening (approx. 48 hours later)  I feel great!  Still tired and warn down a bit.  But I can tell you, with out doing all that stuff, I would have been sickly for a couple weeks at least and inevitably gotten a sinus infection, like every other time I've come back from that place.

So I'm not sure if this stuff is gone for good, or if I'm just in a calming phase tonight, but I'm glad to be feeling better.  And I'm even more glad that I've decided to start trying some of this natural stuff.  I can't believe the difference it has made in such a short time of sticking with it.  I used all things that I knew we weren't allergic to.  And test everything on myself before Veg.  I also used everything in smaller doses then recommended since I tend to react quickly to things.

As for Veg, I'm not sure if his fix's are long term, but I can tell you the garlic, oregano, echinacea and goldenseal each did wonders in there own way during his last bout with the ears.  And I'm hoping they will continue to provide comfort.

Let me know If you'd like any more info on brands we used or how we used them (for example the oregano and garlic was rubbed on his feet instead of taken internally)

Hope your all feeling well, and that your week is a Great one!!!  I'll try to post a little each day till I'm caught up again.  I'm sure I have funnies that need to be told.

WHERE DID I GO?

It seems I have a quite a few people looking at this site these days and some of you are probably wondering why I haven't been posting!  So I'm back.. And have lots to tell as always, however I don't have the time!  *sigh* here is a quick run down, and I'll try to post again later with more details!

After getting back from my business trip and going non stop for several days, we packed the car back up and drove to visit family.  I think in 4 days we saw over 60 people. 

We saw cousins that we didn't know we had and steps and halves and wholes...  Can you say "DYSFUNCTIONAL"? 

We saw Many of whom don't realize yet that smoking is bad for your health, and others who think that eating oatmeal after a Steak dinner topped with ice cream, will lower your cholesterol.  And those with high blood pressure putting salt on their Fillet and not sure why their blood pressure is high? 

There were cats of which I'm allergic to, dogs with emotional issues, perfumes, candles and potpourri that could burn your nose out of a village.. There was a little exercise and a lot of visiting.

Swing sets, slides and indoor play structures, a Veg with lots of cuts and scrapes tripping over his own feet... Looonnnngggg Drives, not a lot of sleep and one very special Birthday Party.

Think that about sums up the long weekend!  I can say officially that I've never come back from a trip and been soooo glad to be back in my old, musty, dog smelling, natural living house... I'm still recouping, as my body is trying to reject all that icky stuff it consumed through air, skin, and mouth.  My nose is running practically non-stop and head is about to explode.  I've taken at least 6 showers since yesterday to try to steam out the madness and used every natural remedy in my home which has worked tremendously.  (can't wait to post those)

For now, it is back to work I go, and stay tuned for more fun information!!!

BETTER THEN MUSIC

Got out for a little run this evening and realized my battery was dead on my iPod.  So that means no music.  I was a tad bummed until about 20 minutes in to it, my brother called my cell phone...

Now let me explain, He and I are complete lunar opposites!  If we didn't look a tad alike you would have thought one of us was adopted..  Of course HE would be the adopted one since I'm virtually a twin to my Mom.  But since his facial features also fit that description, he too seems to be pure blood. 

And although we are opposites in every way, shape and form.... Everything from where we live to how we live!  The one thing we do have in common is that we can both TALK on a phone....

So, set up the cell phone on my ear and continue running, it was like having talk radio running through my phone.  Luckily I didn't have to talk to much because I was totally out of breath.  I think I made it at least a mile and 1/2 with him talking.  It was Great!  ha ha

Off the phone and ready to give up, tired and hot, I remembered there are three people I work with, much older then me training to run 1/2 and whole marathons.  And I decided if they could do it, then by golly, I could make it further today.  And so I did! 

Some day I'm going to make the whole trail and back with out falling apart... That is my mission!  Maybe I need to get one of those fancy ear piece phones and just let my brother talk about business.  I'll make the whole 1/2 marathon before he's done!  ha ha!!  (good thing he doesn't read this)  shhh!  don't tell !

HE'S EXERCISING

Sorry to keep talking about the trip, but so much happened.  Including a person that made me feel a tad uncomfortable.  And another really great person that saved the day.  Since I've been home, I've told Hubby about both these people.... You could tell his brain was trying to process all information.. 

To my HUGE Surprise, I just caught him on the treadmill.  I don't think he's been on that machine in years!

Go Hubby, Go Hubby!  ha ha!!!

SO SICK - POOR KID

As mentioned our little man is running a fever again, and I'm pretty sure its the ears.  So were trying the natural stuff before resorting to the Doc, I'll keep you posted as to what works...

Let me add, that he was showing signs last week but we did preventative and he was fine.... Prevantative did not continue while I was gone, and hence we are now in a sad prediciment.

However... The reason for this post is this... I did get out for a short run this morning, but around 2pm was itching to get out again.   So I jumped on my bike and went for a ride... Up to Starbucks of Course!  hee hee.. Figured a 6 mile ride mostly up hill deserved a Java Chip Frap at the end.  Hubby calls to tell me that Veg was going balistic and wanted me home, so I told them to come get me.

When I got in the car - we had this conversation:

"Why were you crying?"

<because I needed you home>

"Daddy was there, you were fine"

<No I wasn't, I'm soo sick>

"I would have been home in a few minutes"

<But I had to tell you something>

"What did you need to tell me?"

<That I'm sooo sick>

"So you got dressed and drove all the way up here, to tell me that?"

<YES, You needed to know>

Aww!  Poor Kid!  (He's such a guy)

THEY SAY THE FUNNIEST THINGS

I haven't posted any silly words from Veg in a while and thought this was a good one to tell...

"Mom, if you were a boy like me then you wouldn't have to wear those things under your shirt..  Because boys only wear underpants"

<yes your right>

"But if I were a girl then I don't think I'd need one of those things either because my Nibbles aren't big enough"

*smile*

MORNING EXERCISE

I've always said that if I could exercise in the morning before everyone gets up that I'd probably be better off.  But I can't ever get my hiney out of bed that early.  I say I'll goto bed early, but even if that happens I can't get my hiney out of bed.  While chatting with some Mom's last night on a local board, they seem to be having the same struggle.  But While on the trip I was able to get up early each day, and thought possibly I could train my body in to continuing that routine.

Yesterday I did get up, but couldn't go because Hubby wasn't up... Then this morning, I was sure would be "The Day"  until 3am, 4am, 4:30am and 5:00am I was awakened by a crying tot with a fever!  *sigh*  I quickly remembered why waking up early for exercising doesn't really work out for me that well.

As hubby strolls out of bed at 8am (and not being up all night) he says "Man that was the worse night sleep ever!" 

Yeah, ya think?  But before blowing a gasket, I redirected my self in to my jogging shoes and went for a quick run.  And was back before Hubby had to leave. 

Motivate Motivate......  *smile*

ARE YOU A REAL VEGETARIAN?

One really nice guy on my first night at the conference said "Are you a real Vegetarian?"  I replied by saying jokingly  "No, I'm a fake one"...  So he says "No, I mean can you eat fish?  Some of those people eat fish"  I did explain that I wasn't Strict Vegan but was Really Vegetarian.

I explained that I can eat anything, but I choose not to.  But I didn't understand the question.  Are you a real Vegetarian?  I just figured you are, or your not...

While at dinner, I met a new person for the first time and he says "Hey, I'm a vegetarian too, but not really"

So I quickly asked "What does that mean"  He explained that they have certain "House Rules" as to what can be eaten but while at a restaurant he will eat what ever.  And he did!   So I understood now about that early questions.  I guess its not that cut and dry. Through out the conference I had tons of people ask "will you eat fish, or chicken"  including wait staff and even some people that I'd known for a while.   

What really surprised me, was when I got home and explained to hubby about a few places that I ended up not eating, he said "Well why didn't you just eat fish?"

OK... Now surely HE of all people should know the answer to that question. 

GUILT or NOT?

Stating the honest truth here, because I feel that I can't be the only Mom that faces these mind struggles! 

I've never wanted to travel for work and the last two times I did, I was miserable.  There was a time when I didn't want to be away from Hubby at all, and I've never wanted to be away from Veg.  I could be a Stay at Home Mom in a heart beat.  But somehow, someway something changed this time.

The "Me" that was around this past week:

Smiling, Laughing, all the time! Could get ready in 15 minutes or less with nothing else to worry about.  Could stay up late and get up early, or go to bed early if I wanted.  Slept straight through with no interruptions.  Didn't have to get in my car all week, everything was within walking distance.  Didn't have to carry a bag where ever I went if I didn't want to.  Could go to the gym with out worrying about someone watching Veg.  Could eat with out interruption.  Able to Work or Visit without worrying about time.  Could get lost driving and go in circles, but not be stressed with upset passengers.  Go where ever I needed, when ever I needed with just me and no cargo.  Could sit in a conference room for 12 hours and still feel like I was on vacation!  (as long as I got a Frappucino at some point, I was good)

The "Me" that is here today:

Up late with a Feverish Veg, house chores GALORE, Awakened 3 times by the dogs.  Up Early and wanting to go for a run, but I can't because Hubby is still sleeping and I need to be here for Veg.  Trying to catch up on Work last night and early this morning so I don't have to worry about cutting in to Veg and Hubby time.  Take turns using the shower and bathrooms.  Will need to drive where ever I go and take an hour or more to get out of the house.  Deal with attitude of differing opinions, and annoyances of things being done differently.

So WHY did I enjoy the "other" me so much?

Does that make me horrible?  Does it say that I don't like the "real" me or my life?  Someone asked me on Friday if it was hard being away for 5 days and with a guilty voice I actually said "It's strange, but Not Really"....  When I got home, Hubby asked if I was glad to be home?  and I had to think of that answer.  Another Mom told me that it was exciting to be around so many people we never get to see, and she made the observation that I haven't been out just to hang out with people in a whole lot of years. 

Maybe its because I did the treasure hunt thing with Veg so he was happy every time I talked to him, looking forward to his next clue.  Maybe it's because he's older now, and I didn't feel like I was missing out on so much.  Maybe its because I'd built up a lot of stress and was just in a different frame of mind by the time this trip occurred.  Or maybe I got some time to learn about myself.  Not the Mom or Wife or Daughter, but just "ME"..

So should I feel guilty for enjoying the Other Me?  Is it OK for Moms or Wives to just be people some times?  Jury is still out on this one!

Veg asked for a "Great big hug" this morning and it put my world back in to perspective.  I wouldn't have it any other way, I'm blessed to have a wonderful family and wonderful Job...  But Maybe its OK that I find that other "ME" once in a while??? 

MADE IT HOME

Well I'm back.. Got a little turned around in Georgia (this is to be expected since I'm completely directionally challenged)  But once on the interstate, I was good to go.  Made it back quickly actually.  Even had time for a Starbucks beverage.

The security guy finally came to rescue my purse this morning from the un-lockable safe.  And the hotel agreed to a late check out.  So everything worked perfectly.

I decided before leaving that I should stop at each table and say goodbye and thank you to those that I work with.  Good thing about doing this, was I ended up being introduced to the few I hadn't met up till that point.  Not sure if I looked like a fool wandering around and I probably did, but it was worth it to answer questions that people had,  so it was a good thing.  And I even picked up a few more suggestions during my roaming act, so I'm adding them to my list.

In the end, I was very glad I went... Even the drive home was pleasant... Not sure things will go this smooth ever again, or that the same group of people will ever be in the same place at the same time again, but I did enjoy it... Shhhhh, don't tell Hubby that I enjoyed myself.

As for Hubby and Veg, they were so excited about their treasures while on the phone, but after arriving home, I noticed the Sprinkler (water set) wasn't taken out of the box... The Yellow Picnic never happened (everything still in bags)  My dogs were exiled from the bedroom, and Veg took up residents in my Bed, along with food wrappers and buckets of snacks.  Hubby left the house within 10 minutes of me entering and  after this post, its back to work for me.  I'll probably be playing catch up all weekend, not to mention everything else that needs to be done around here.

How does that old song go?  Back to life, Back to Reality???  *smile*

TODAY'S UPDATE

Today was another great day!  But of course there are events to share!

As mentioned earlier I got up early and went to get my purse out of the room safe from last night... The safe won't open? 

So I had to go visit the treadmill with out my headphones.. I only had time for 20 minutes but I got the bugger up to 5.3 speed.  Get back to room, and check the safe, still won't open.  Turns out, I have to call security to open it!

The conference had some pretty heavy content today, and I did manage to sneak out for a much needed starbucks at lunch time.  Sat next to some different people at Breakfast and through out the day, also had a few people come up to where I was sitting to chat and ask questions.  So I think I've met just about all of them.  Not that I will remember all, but at least I met them... *smile*

And of course there is a food story... Went for Veg Sushi tonight (Yum Yum) well, I was the only one that had "Veg" sushi.  One of the guys got Lobster!  ha ha... only this time the critter was brought out on a platter already chopped open.. guess what else it had???  A Head and two eyeballs, that were watching us eat.!  Curious?  What is the point in chopping the head off and then putting it on the plate?  You don't eat that part and its certainly not a pretty garnish??

Then the after dinner entertainment:   We decided to wait in the lobby and see who else would join.  The conversation was good, the people were great again, but yet again, I was the only person drinking water.  And I can tell you, I haven't laughed so hard in a very long time.  My stomach is still recouping and my eyes still tearing.  Not only were these wonderful people I work with in a rare state of mind, but some one also brought out a guitar... (Travel Guitar, that is)  and played everything from Jonny Cash to Led Zeplin.  I've heard rumors of this activity occurring in the past, but this was my first on site viewing of the phenomenon.  There was singing, and people toe tapping that I didn't even know were capable of toe tapping.  The one man show, contained skits, imitations, and music. 

Now I feel like I could fall asleep standing up... so laying down in my nice comfy bed is sounding pretty good.

Good Night!

ANOTHER MORNING

In the gym and the fancy treadmills were taken. But I got an old fashion one that works just fine.

Sad thing is I don't have iPod with me. Because its locked in the safe along with my purse. And guess what? The safe won't open! My stuff has been eatin up!

What is up with me and locks this week?

THIS WEEK'S UPDATE

I actually went to a drinking establishment (otherwise known as a bar) two nights in a row.  Sitting in smoke free areas and drinking water, watching all those around me get toasty was quite entertaining.

But the best part was the company.  I think I forgot how to have fun with just people?  Not kids or spouse, or family.. But co-workers, friends, and meeting new people.  I have laughed a lot the past couple days, to the point of my cheeks hurting.  I don't have a desire to go to places like that in any way shape or form, but this group of people and topics of conversation, made it all worth while. 

The dinners hadn't been that great till tonight, (more to follow) so last night I ordered fries from the bar to curb my hunger.  They were actually really good, and I was just munching as the night went on.  Suddenly I pay my bill, look down and the fries were gone.  The waiter had taken them even though I wasn't done.  One of the guys (the protector of the bunch) at our table, got up and told the Waiter that he needed to bring me more fries.  And the waiter did!  Ha!  Not only did he bring me more fries but he apologized 10 times for taking my other ones.  I just thought it was so nice (even though I really didn't need more fries, and told him so)

The funniest part, was I lost the key to my room (or so I thought) I've never lost a hotel key.. You would have thought I was the drunk one, but I seriously have only had water.  Back down to the lobby for a new key... get in my room, and theres my key sitting on the counter INside the room.  Is that smart or what?  Geesh!

My conference portion went great yesterday.  The food was good, the people were interactive and participating.   It was probably one of the most productive events I've done.  I was so excited at the end of the day, with the positive feedback, and huge lists of new things we can do... I even had the guy setting up our room from the hotel ask me questions about why I had certain things in there.  It was pretty funny actually.

Then there is the Dinners... The first night I was told by one of the guys that he would surely offend me by the end of the night about eating meat.  I explained to him that I don't easily get offended on the subject because I've already heard all the jokes.  But have to say... He was right!!! 

Two guys (one sitting on either side of me) split a giant lobster.  The waiter and waitress came to our table and put the lobster tails in napkins, then began cracking them.  Little pieces of meat flew all over me from both directions and I realized I had "Lobster Butt" in my hair!  This would be the part where I got offended!  EWWW!!!!  Of course we all laughed, and no harm done.

As for my food...  We went to two very nice places with fancy chefs and everything.  One of them even being  a TV Chef, and yet, they had NOTHING Vegetarian on the menu!  I was shocked.... I expect this at most places, but not the fancy ones??  So I got Veggie plates with nasty spices and came out very disappointed. 

Then tonight, I was served a piece of salmon and chicken... I politely asked for Vegetarian dish, and they brought me some really yummy lasagna roll up things stuffed with tons of veggies and a great tomato sauce.  It was sooo good, I could have eaten two plates full.  They also had a great soup and salad.  So tonight's meal was by far the best this week.

As for my boys?  They seem to be having great fun back home!  Going out to eat, to movies, the dentist, and of course finding all their hidden treasures.  Hubby has been good and not called a million times, so that is good.  But its hard when Veg calls and I can't talk.  He's been such a trooper though.. "4 wake ups is Not a long time" he said!   And he just keeps looking forward to his next clue!  *smile*

The Conference today was great!  Still a long day, but that is to be expected.  Many of the presenters were hilarious, and I tried to step out of my shell to meet as many people as possible on the breaks..  These are people we send emails to all the time but never get to meet in person.  I even got a few more ideas to try after we get back.

Needless to say, I'm glad I came.  It's been an interesting experience to say the least!  Hope the next two days will be equally eventful... 

HOTEL GYM PART 2

I got up early again this morning and went down to the gym as noted in earlier post.. But I wasn't early enough because all the treadmills were taken.  So I decide to try a bike.  . 

I managed 6 miles in 30 minutes on the bike :-)  and then a treadmill opened up, so I did 15 minutes at a speed of 5.

When all done, I get up to my room, the key doesn't t work...  So dripping sweat and beet red from my little exercising.. I have to carry my happy hiney back downstairs to get my key working.  But its almost time for our conference to start.  And of course I run in to at least 5 important people, while still in my gym clothes.  One of the guys was really nice and said "Oh that happens to me all the time" another admitted he should have been at the gym too.  So it made me not feel so bad while smelly and sweaty in the elevator.  Talk about nice first impressions!  Ugh!

Get back to the room and realize the meeting is starting in 20 minutes not 45 minutes like I thought... so I get showered, dressed and down stairs in exactly 20 minutes... I even had time to eat some fruit and drink of water before sitting down in the meeting!  Now that is for sure record timing!

GYM DAY TWO

While sitting on a fancy shmancy bike in the fancy shmancy Gym (because the treadmills are taken) I decided to type this post. Talk about multi-tasking! Exercise and typing at the same time... Isn't technology grand... so far I've gone 4 miles according to the little screen.. The TV doesn't work on this machine but it is supposedly giving me a "custom" work out because it "knows me". Yes I am one with the machine, we had a talk and it said "Veg I know exactly what you need"! It even shows me love. Oh yes, inbetween adding inclines and declines, it flashes a big red heart. I will assume it is saying "I love you" but it is probably really saying "lady you may want to put your hands on those silver things and so I can see if your heart is still working.

And what is up with the mirrors in these places.. I tell you only a guy could have decided that was a good idea. Because this girl has no desire to see what the bod looks like while doing things that it shouldn't be doing while it should be sleeping. Even a stranger in the elevator said "you shouldn't be going to the gym this early". And yet here I am.