Washington Redskins Health, Wellness and Fitness EXPO

I always find it interesting when someone says they will never have a heart attack or they live "healthy". I once thought that too. There are also those who admit to having heart disease then grab the most unhealthy thing on the way out the door to go smoke. I always "thought" I was healthy and while I may not dive into Twinkies, I am sure all of my food choices have not always been the best.

Yesterday was a great day as I was able to give back and share my story through the American Heart Association and Go Red at the Redskins Stadium. I was also able to share my day with Juliana McKee, Miss Teen International, whom is an amazing young lady. She is clearly passionate and knowledgeable on heart disease and stroke and honestly I was completely impressed. I am not sure I was that eloquent at 18 (ok I wasn't:) She shared her story about her cousin Erik and her own personal struggles with self image and making the right food choices. She is an amazing spokesperson for the American Heart Association and the Alliance for a Healthier Generation. Thank you Roxana Hoveyda and the American Heart Association for allowing us to be a part of such an amazing event!

While I was there I decided to walk the walk if I was sharing and had my cholesterol checked, body fat (yes, that was fun), bone density and blood pressure. Since my heart attack and stint placement in January I have kept track but it had been some time. Yes, we did take photos and my finger stick did not prove to be successful at first but try and try again...success. 

So I am going to share. More because it helps me to be accountable and make the changes I need too. My husband likes to hide his numbers but I encourage you to share and work with a family member or friend. Yes, weight is important but these numbers can also save your life.

Cholesterol total: 170
HDL (Happy cholesterol:)))) 59 (should be higher)
LDL (Lousy cholesterol) 82
Trig (much like math just painful but my numbers where good) 145
BP 128/79 (almost text book!)
Body Fat: 22.6.... yes, Miss Teen was lower.....much lower.....
Lung Capacity 350. This has always been an issue for me. Raised in Florida, allergies...etc..

I know making the time to go visit your primary care physician can be tough.  Health fairs are great for gathering information. It literally took 10 minutes. Also log on to http://www.goredforwomen.org/ and take the health quiz.

The day ended with a splurge on veggie chips...beats Twinkies...right!:)))))

Its hard to believe that tomorrow marks the 9 year anniversary of 911. I remember it all so well. I was at HSN as a buyer and we had a "Todays Special" for a brand I had at the time ALOETTE and it started at 7am. I was siting at the producers desk with him and the brand launched. We recieved a call saying that a plane had crashed into a building which is why our sales where down. It was breaking news. The original report to us was that it was a small plane which did not turn out to be the case. Soon after, we heard another plane crashed and I remember running to the dreen room to see the news. I walked in to see the horrific replay of what was going on. It was a moment of silence. As the day went on and we returned to the office everyone's life was on hold. Where we being attacked? What about our children. Should we stay on the air. Those with children left as I would have too. All I really wanted to do was to hug my family. I remember my Father had just passed away and I wondered what would he do. What would he say. I felt lost as sooooo many others did.

My future husband deployed to Iraq as many did. It was a time that no one knew what the outcome would be. All we knew was that you came to my house and killed my so many innocent people. You came to my house to create fear. To scare us....Well, we didn't lay down. Today, my sister is still deployed to Iraq and my husband went again in 2006.

Saying all that, the one thing that comes to mind to me today is my Father. He was an incredible man. The recent news of a Pastor in Florida I just find so disturbing. I am glad he backed away. So many have lost lives, fought for life and this just created such undo tension in an AMERICAN society where Muslims do and should have a free right of religion. They are American and because they live here, they have the choice to practice whatever denomination they believe in. As ALL AMERICANS do. This is what we fight for.

My Father once said to me that a church is wherever you choose to believe. God hears you no matter where you are. My God may not be your God and you may not believe in everything I believe in. The one consistant is the greater good. Please love and huge your neighbors AND REMEMBER AND PRAY FOR THOSE THAT ARE DEPLOYED AND THOSE WHOM HAVE LOST THEIR LIVES SO THAT WE CAN...be free to choose.

Did you know that September is the National Cholesterol Education Month?

My family history and heart disease is strong. My parents both passed of heart disease and many members of my family have constantly struggled with what I call the cholesterol juggle. You know the juggle. The pounds of cheerios we eat, cholesterol meds and any other food that swears to help...well, we just DO IT! The one thing we often forget to do is to get things checked. Its important to know your numbers and learn what they mean. My heart attack last January was a HUGE wakeup call for me. My total was under 200 and my LDL was 68. Everyone's body is different and mine just needed to be lower.

It may surprise you to know that cholesterol itself isn't bad. In fact, cholesterol is just one of the many substances created and used by our bodies to keep us healthy. Some of the cholesterol we need is produced naturally (and can be affected by your family health history), while some of it comes from the food we eat.




There are two types of cholesterol: "good" and "bad." It's important to understand the difference, and to know the levels of "good" and "bad" cholesterol in your blood. Too much of one type — or not enough of another — can put you at risk for coronary heart disease, heart attack or stroke.

Cholesterol comes from two sources: your body and food. Your liver and other cells in your body make about 75 percent of blood cholesterol. The other 25 percent comes from the foods you eat. Cholesterol is only found in animal products.




A cholesterol screening measures your level of HDL and LDL. HDL is the "good" cholesterol which helps keep the LDL (bad) cholesterol from getting lodged into your artery walls. A healthy level of HDL may also protect against heart attack and stroke, while low levels of HDL (less than 40 mg/dL for men and less than 50 mg/dL for women) have been shown to increase the risk of heart disease.



If you need to increase your HDL to your reach your goals, studies show that regular physical activity can help your body produce more HDLs. Reducing trans fats and eating a balanced, nutritious diet is another way to increase HDL. If these measures are not enough to increase your HDL to goal, your healthcare practitioner may prescribe a medication specifically to increase your HDLs

LDL cholesterol is the "bad" cholesterol. When too much of it circulates in the blood, it can clog arteries, increasing your risk of heart attack and stroke.




LDL cholesterol is produced naturally by the body, but many people inherit genes from their mother, father or even grandparents that cause them to make too much. Eating saturated fat, trans fats and dietary cholesterol also increases how much you have. If high blood cholesterol runs in your family, lifestyle modifications may not be enough to help lower your LDL blood cholesterol. Everyone is different, so work with your doctor to find a treatment plan that's best for you.

To learn more, log onto http://www.heart.org/ and don't ever forget to LISTEN TO YOUR HEART!

There is strong evidence that fast treatment of stroke leads to better recovery and fewer complications. Data demonstrates clearly that complications from stroke shorten life span. Wouldn't you want to ensure that your health care system has all the needed resources, specialists, and tools to provide the best standard of care in a fast and effective manner?

A strong telemedicine network can help close important gaps. Telestroke provides a mechanism for faster diagnosis, evaluating treatment options, and other critical elements of the process in the medical community. Click here to help make your legislators aware of the need!

Minimizing the barriers to fast and comprehensive stroke treatment would be a strong investment in our citizens' health. We can't afford to overlook any option to help change these outcomes.

Take a moment now and urge priority consideration for this life-saving service.

As early as today (Wednesday), the Senate will again try to pass critical Medicaid support for people with disabilities. If the Senate does not approve additional federal Medicaid funding to the states, they will be forced to cut benefits and services for people with disabilities and chronic illnesses. Every message from Easter Seals supporters like you will make a difference.

Act now! Urge your Senators to protect people with disabilities by voting to extend this enhanced federal Medicaid funding!

Medicaid is a lifeline for children and adults with disabilities. Because of the health care they get through the program, they are able to be successful in school, keep a job and live independent lives.

Thanks to Medicaid, a child with autism can get the speech therapy he needs, a teenager with spina bifida can get the wheelchair she needs to use to get around school, and an older person living with a chronic illness can see his doctor. Medicaid exists to help people who can't otherwise afford it, pay for critical services like these.

But state budgets have been squeezed by this recession. With less tax revenue coming in, they're facing the prospect of devastating cutbacks. They need help filling the gaps and keeping important programs afloat. They're counting on support from Washington.

The federal government has always shared the financial responsibility for Medicaid. With so many people in need and the states so strapped for cash, this is the moment for the Senate to step up with additional funding.

When enough of their constituents weigh in, elected officials listen. That's why we can't let Senators cast their vote again without hearing our voices. But it has to happen fast. Write your Senators and let your opinion be heard before it's too late.

Write your Senators and let your opinion be heard before it's too late.

I really appreciate your help on this critically important issue. Dedicated Easter Seals supporters like you are the difference between winning and losing these legislative battles.

The USO community has always impressed and inspired me with their dedication to our troops and their families. But I have never been so amazed by the impact that dedication can have. My sister is currently deployed and my husband has been deployed multiple times. You...WE...can make a difference!

A week ago we set an ambitious goal of providing 100,000 calls home for our troops by July 31. USO supporters like you have stepped up in a major way. We've surpassed our original goal and are now looking to enable 250,000 connections between troops and their loved ones.

This outpouring of support has been truly inspirational and will mean so much to our brave men and women. We've still got 85,000 more calls to go and only a few days to make it happen. Your gift now could be the one that puts us over the top.

Donate now to put us over the top and connect our troops with their loved ones.

The success of this campaign so far shows just how much we can do for our troops when we all come together.

Our troops put so much on the line when they make the decision to serve and defend our country. So when there's an opportunity to make even a small positive difference in their lives, we've got to be there.

Providing troops with a free way to get in touch with home and family is such a simple but effective way to do that. And because every dollar equals two calls back home, we can make a big impact.

With just 85,000 calls to go, we're almost there.

Make a donation now and put us over the top for our troops.

Thanks,

There is a saying that the true character of someone is only seen by those who arent't looking. I am always shocked at the way a situation unfolds and the true character of someone when they have something to gain. It leaves me speechless as it is not in my character to look for fault but to learn and grow as a person with every situation. I guess God left the "perfect" jean out of my DNA so I don't ever judge anyone for anything except how they are in situations I have seen them in and ther reactions when things are tough. Humility is a wonderful trait but a hard one to swallow for some.

Never forget where you came from, never loose track of who you are....God has the ultimate power and the only one that should ever hold someone in judgement is him.

Always live to be the person you say you are, even when viewing others. The only shoes that you walked in are your own. Forgiveness, love, life and the glory to God are what this life is about.

One of my greatest memories growing up is Christmas with my family. My family always had a way of making everything bright and beautiful. The year of the skates from my parents will always me monumental for me but the Christmas with my sister was one of the best. Growing up we shared a room for a while. I remember the yellow room in Georgia, the pink room....sleeping back to back to protect us from all the ghost and goblin's but mostly Christmas. I remember laying under the tree and looking up at the lights. We always wished upon each light and she always inspired me and made me feel safe. We went through a lot in life and unfortunately through the passing of our parents in death also. She is beautiful, inside and out. I was always so jealous of her beautiful cat eyes and raven hair.

My sister joined the US NAVY at 17 years of age. I was younger and didn't really understand at the time  why she wanted to join so young but she seemed happy. This did not stop me from missing my big sis.

My sis, Denice, left the NAVY and went Army. She deploys this week for Iraq.

I love the USO, I love being a military spouse, sister, niece, daughter and Grand daughter of the United States Armed Services. I don't like the worry....Denice is a hero for me...she walks the walk and dances to her own song.

Denice~

May the lights shine on your face daily sis...I love you...be strong because that is just who you are. My coca cola smuggling sis. You are why I drink at least a 2 liter a day:)))) Love you sis....thank you for sharing the lights and the dreams with me. We will dance a million dances when you come back. Don't you dare ever forget that! We also still have that shopping trip. Imagine that!!!!! Shoes, cocktails and dreams...everything just fits even on a bad day.

I love you, we love you...be safe and come home.

Lil sis....scooter

Its hard to believe one year ago yesterday, we brought Carter home from the NICU after 165 days. Ironically, yesterday was the NICU reunion from National Naval and it was great to catch up with some of the medical staff and nurses who helped Carter through many long days and nights. As Carter was the "Mayor" of the NICU I did tell Carter the picnic was just for him :)))) Its amazing how much and how quickly babies change and grow. There were so many beautiful children at the reunion. Great blessings to us all.

Its been a year of growth, learning as new parents and also self reflection. A baby does change everything. What a blessing children are. As I look at him smile and laugh this morning while pulling his socks off of his feet with great vigor...I just wanted to say thank you. Thank you to the doctors, nurses, friends, family and mostly God for giving us the blessing of Carter Thomas Linz. Born at 23.4 weeks and 1 pound 8oz and 12 inches long. Today...22lbs and 34 inches long! Yes, like his Daddy, he is tall.

I was sitting outside the other day just thinking. I was thinking about life, the songs that the birds sing, how the wind felt so sweet as it warmly swept across my cheeks and how the grass always looks greener when freshly mowed. The sky seemed so blue and I felt a peaceful moment. Its a rare passing I think in most any one's life and one that often passes without notice. I was reminded of the last time I felt this way and it was when I was sitting on the beach. The ocean has a way of talking to you like it is singing a lullaby just for you. It is the most amazing gift of God and nature and one we use often without thanks.

I am greatly saddened by the oil spill. The gulf of Mexico has been my sanctuary for a great deal of my life having grown up on the West Coast of Florida. The fact that this has happened without seemingly a lot of recourse to BP and with such little regard to nature and all if its gifts makes me sick.

What guidelines are in place to prevent this sort of drilling in the future? When will this be fixed?

I typically do not step into politics but I am sorry, Obama said he was down there a month ago and that we are resilient. That the sea life can bounce back in the next three years. Three years...tell that to those who live by the economy that tourism brings in. Tell that to Louisiana and neighboring states that have already been economically devastated.

And the wildlife thirsting for nourishment, covered in oil and dying.

Maybe if the oil spill was washing up on the Potomac...three years would be too long.

Anyone who knows me, knows I love makeup. Lets face it, I just love being a girl. Makeup, shoes, hair product, shoes, clothes, shoes...did I mention shoes? The best thing is that even when I am bloated, they still fit!

Ok, so I have been on a bit of a revamping journey. It is spring/summer and that is always a good excuse to update a few things, right? (insert my husbands sigh here) This to me is the greatest aspect about being a women! We can change, change again and change back if we so deem appropriate! Gotta love it!

Memorial weekend was a good one for us. We traveled a bit, saw family and friends and said thank you to those that have served our country. This, of course, included my husband so I did give him a great big hug but don't push it honey..., "can you go put the clothes in the dryer." I did thank him for doing that also.

I have heard, although not personally lived it, that there was a time in life that you could borrow a cup of sugar from your neighbor. This seems to be a reality on the "Real Housewives"...that is the real Real Housewives and not the varying reality shows which I feel pretty confident would be more likely to throw sugar or just lie about having any:) Saying that, do we really know our neighbors?

My husband grew up on a road in PA where many of the families still live and his friends have been friends for life. Most of the children have moved on but the parents and Grandparents have remained. This does seem to be a dying thing. Literally, once the older generation moves on the newer generation moves in. Doors locked, curtains drawn and the once social gathering around a neighborhood bonfire is gone.

My husband and I figured out yesterday that we do know our neighbors.....

We have Murreys Dad, Mysfa's Mom, Blankets Dad, Brownies Parents and Sugars parents.

 So I guess I may not be able to borrow sugar but I can borrow something from my neighbors...puppy chow!

Its hard to believe that the year is almost half way over! Is it really almost Memorial Day? I do love the summer. Something about white, sunshine and a pina colada just makes a day better. Throw in a childs laughter, a few waves and a good bikini wax and its pretty darn perfect. I'm not saying I am bikini ready yet but it is always good to be prepared:)

Every Memorial Day, Andy and I like to reflect on the story behind it. Certainly since living in DC we have embraced the opportunity to visit the history of this holiday in our nations capital with all of the monuments and museums. It is hard to believe that there are people who have forgotten what the history of Memorial Day is and only see it as a day off work or just the beginning of summer. So while brushing up on a bit of history today...I thought I would share....

(coutesy of http://www.usmemorialday.org/)

 Memorial Day, originally called Decoration Day, is a day of remembrance for those who have died in our nation's service. There are many stories as to its actual beginnings, with over two dozen cities and towns laying claim to being the birthplace of Memorial Day. There is also evidence that organized women's groups in the South were decorating graves before the end of the Civil War: a hymn published in 1867, "Kneel Where Our Loves are Sleeping" by Nella L. Sweet carried the dedication "To The Ladies of the South who are Decorating the Graves of the Confederate Dead" (Source: Duke University's Historic American Sheet Music, 1850-1920). While Waterloo N.Y. was officially declared the birthplace of Memorial Day by President Lyndon Johnson in May 1966, it's difficult to prove conclusively the origins of the day. It is more likely that it had many separate beginnings; each of those towns and every planned or spontaneous gathering of people to honor the war dead in the 1860's tapped into the general human need to honor our dead, each contributed honorably to the growing movement that culminated in Gen Logan giving his official proclamation in 1868. It is not important who was the very first, what is important is that Memorial Day was established. Memorial Day is not about division. It is about reconciliation; it is about coming together to honor those who gave their all.

General John A. Logan


Library of Congress, Prints & Photographs Division, [LC-B8172- 6403 DLC (b&w film neg.)]






Memorial Day was officially proclaimed on 5 May 1868 by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, in his General Order No. 11, and was first observed on 30 May 1868, when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery. The first state to officially recognize the holiday was New York in 1873. By 1890 it was recognized by all of the northern states. The South refused to acknowledge the day, honoring their dead on separate days until after World War I (when the holiday changed from honoring just those who died fighting in the Civil War to honoring Americans who died fighting in any war). It is now celebrated in almost every State on the last Monday in May (passed by Congress with the National Holiday Act of 1971 (P.L. 90 - 363) to ensure a three day weekend for Federal holidays), though several southern states have an additional separate day for honoring the Confederate war dead: January 19 in Texas, April 26 in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, and Mississippi; May 10 in South Carolina; and June 3 (Jefferson Davis' birthday) in Louisiana and Tennessee.






In 1915, inspired by the poem "In Flanders Fields," Moina Michael replied with her own poem:














We cherish too, the Poppy red


That grows on fields where valor led,


It seems to signal to the skies


That blood of heroes never dies.










She then conceived of an idea to wear red poppies on Memorial day in honor of those who died serving the nation during war. She was the first to wear one, and sold poppies to her friends and co-workers with the money going to benefit servicemen in need. Later a Madam Guerin from France was visiting the United States and learned of this new custom started by Ms.Michael and when she returned to France, made artificial red poppies to raise money for war orphaned children and widowed women. This tradition spread to other countries. In 1921, the Franco-American Children's League sold poppies nationally to benefit war orphans of France and Belgium. The League disbanded a year later and Madam Guerin approached the VFW for help. Shortly before Memorial Day in 1922 the VFW became the first veterans' organization to nationally sell poppies. Two years later their "Buddy" Poppy program was selling artificial poppies made by disabled veterans. In 1948 the US Post Office honored Ms Michael for her role in founding the National Poppy movement by issuing a red 3 cent postage stamp with her likeness on it.


Traditional observance of Memorial day has diminished over the years. Many Americans nowadays have forgotten the meaning and traditions of Memorial Day. At many cemeteries, the graves of the fallen are increasingly ignored, neglected. Most people no longer remember the proper flag etiquette for the day. While there are towns and cities that still hold Memorial Day parades, many have not held a parade in decades. Some people think the day is for honoring any and all dead, and not just those fallen in service to our country.






There are a few notable exceptions. Since the late 50's on the Thursday before Memorial Day, the 1,200 soldiers of the 3d U.S. Infantry place small American flags at each of the more than 260,000 gravestones at Arlington National Cemetery. They then patrol 24 hours a day during the weekend to ensure that each flag remains standing. In 1951, the Boy Scouts and Cub Scouts of St. Louis began placing flags on the 150,000 graves at Jefferson Barracks National Cemetery as an annual Good Turn, a practice that continues to this day. More recently, beginning in 1998, on the Saturday before the observed day for Memorial Day, the Boys Scouts and Girl Scouts place a candle at each of approximately 15,300 grave sites of soldiers buried at Fredericksburg and Spotsylvania National Military Park on Marye's Heights (the Luminaria Program). And in 2004, Washington D.C. held its first Memorial Day parade in over 60 years.






To help re-educate and remind Americans of the true meaning of Memorial Day, the "National Moment of Remembrance" resolution was passed on Dec 2000 which asks that at 3 p.m. local time, for all Americans "To voluntarily and informally observe in their own way a Moment of remembrance and respect, pausing from whatever they are doing for a moment of silence or listening to 'Taps."






The Moment of Remembrance is a step in the right direction to returning the meaning back to the day. What is needed is a full return to the original day of observance. Set aside one day out of the year for the nation to get together to remember, reflect and honor those who have given their all in service to their country.






But what may be needed to return the solemn, and even sacred, spirit back to Memorial Day is for a return to its traditional day of observance. Many feel that when Congress made the day into a three-day weekend in with the National Holiday Act of 1971, it made it all the easier for people to be distracted from the spirit and meaning of the day. As the VFW stated in its 2002 Memorial Day address: "Changing the date merely to create three-day weekends has undermined the very meaning of the day. No doubt, this has contributed greatly to the general public's nonchalant observance of Memorial Day."






On January 19, 1999 Senator Inouye introduced bill S 189 to the Senate which proposes to restore the traditional day of observance of Memorial Day back to May 30th instead of "the last Monday in May". On April 19, 1999 Representative Gibbons introduced the bill to the House (H.R. 1474). The bills were referred the Committee on the Judiciary and the Committee on Government Reform

So with all that being said...if you have a moment this weekend please visit http://www.uso.org/ or if you see a service member, say thank you. As a military spouse, I can tell you it makes a difference.
 
Have a great holiday and God Bless America!

Please click above to watch.

Its hard to believe it is May 11th already!!!! Seriously, time flies! I have also heard season's change but I am just not feeling it. Well I am, then I am not, then I am....This has been the basic weather pattern in DC. Monday, 40 degrees, Tuesday, 85 degrees, Wed 59 degrees....come on GIVE ME SPRING and not a cold! This is where it becomes painfully clear that I am a Florida gal. I enjoy hanging Christmas lights on my palm tree while wearing flip flops and a Santa hat.

My second favorite home is Tennessee. I lived there for many years while working at Shop at Home TV and Jewelry Television. As many know , I also am a country music artist/writer and my heart is breaking for so much of amazing history that found itself under water recently. The Ryman (the original Grand Ole Opry) was under water and the damage lost there and on 2nd and Broadway is huge to Nashville. Please keep everyone in Tennessee and Oklahoma in your prayers. My best friend, Amy Gregorio was there recently supporting the beautiful Michele in Mrs Tennessee America and said that it was pretty devastating.

Much love and be blessed today to be who you are and love the one's your with.

Childhood obesity is one of the most serious epidemics in the U.S., yet the unhealthy foods available to our kids and the lack of physical activity provided during the school day hinder their ability to make healthy choices to fight it.

We know this problem is urgent. But as the Senate continues to delay voting on the Child Nutrition Act, we need to make sure they know, too.

Take a moment to send a letter to your Senators to tell them how important it is that we improve the school environment for healthier kids.

The more people our Senators hear from, the likelier they are to feel pressure to push for a vote on this crucial act. By writing to them now, you can ask them to sign on to a letter going to the Senate leadership that calls for an immediate debate on this bipartisan bill.

With the growing threat of childhood obesity and related problems, we are long overdue for a re-vamp of our school nutrition programs. The Child Nutrition Act would provide much-needed support to strengthen the ways in which our schools help promote healthy lifestyle habits, such as proper nutrition and adequate daily physical activity. But we need to act now: the deadline for Senators to sign on to this letter to Senate leadership is May 19.

Tell your Senators to take this first step toward ensuring a healthy future for our kids today.

Thank you for your time---together we can make sure this important act gets passed.

The weather fairy was with us for the picnic on Saturday. The Quantico Rod and Gun Club hosted the third annual Wounded Veterans picnic on 8 may 2010 from 11 to 5PM. The turnout was wonderful and it was great to meet so many incredible people. The Armed Forces Foundation was present along with many grass roots organizations to show support for our wounded veteran's and active duty personal.

I think it is so easy to forget all the sacrifices that are made daily by our United States military. I am often humbled and saddened when someone questions the relevance of showing support. We currently have over 1.6 million active duty personnel serving worldwide. Showing support is so vital not only for morale but also to help provide assistance to our soldiers, sailors, marines, airmen and guardsmen and their families.

The war in Afghanistan continues and my sister is deploying soon in what we hope to be the last set of troops going into Iraq.

                                                                                                               

I was able to meet Congressman Rob Wittman and many others on Saturday. He truly was a nice man and it was great to see the support he was providing to our military. I also met this young many name Timothy. He was 7 and such an inspiration and a true hero also.

Thank you to all who attended and thank you to the Armed Forces Foundation and the Quantico Gun and Rod club for making it a truly spectacular event.

Anyone who knows me, knows I am like a book. Over sensitive and broken at the binder but a good read if you like slightly broken:) Its been one of those weeks and it is only Wednesday! My weekend was my Mother in law and Father in law. My Father in law is a saint. My Mother in law...well there is a reason why there are stigmas. Monster in law ring a bell? Yes, she can read this and hate me more but I doubt that. She has FULLY shared her feelings with me. I will just say this, for someone who actually said to me...and I quote, "I don't want to know anything about your family" and they are deceased...she could not fill their shoes on their worst day. Now I must stop....but I am upset. This weekend more drama.....

So this brings me to my aggression. Spring cleaning. I have torn through things, planted flowers, folded, thrown out and not slept. This is all due to my new vegan diet. Ugh...the clarity! I was cleaning Carters room and found numerous dead flies behind furniture. These are the annoying creatures that live only 24 hours yet we strive to kill them upon initial greeting. I have never seen a baby fly....I realize I should have paid more attention in class to all of the annoyances in life but failed in this aspect of my educational development.

My week....Mother in law and dead flies....I have had better weeks. Isn't this Cinco de Mayo?

Cheers!

The Quantico Rod and Gun Club will host the third annual Wounded Veterans picnic on 8 may 2010 from 11 to 5PM.


Congressman Wittman will attend along with several other dignitaries.

Several Beauty Queens a live band and plenty of food to go around.

Fishing lounging and good old fashioned fun.
 
There will be over 300 military present.
 
We hope to see you there!

Dear Friend --




You and I have the chance to be part of something really special. It's for our troops and their moms -- and it's for our troops who are moms.

With Mother's Day fast approaching, the USO is making sure this year there are More Minutes for Mom.

http://www.uso.org/

Through this great effort, we can help our troops who are separated from their families make more phone calls home. We can make sure that no matter the distance, all our brave service men and women can connect with their families this Mother's Day.

So please donate now to support the More Minutes for Mom campaign. Your $15 donation can provide 300 minutes of talk time from Afghanistan.

I can only imagine how hard it is knowing your son or daughter is in harm's way halfway around the world.

And just think what it's like for a young mother serving with her unit in Afghanistan or Iraq and knowing that Mother's Day hug from her child will have to wait until next year.

We've got to do everything we can to help troops and their families connect on and around Mother's Day.

Donate now to support the More Minutes for Mom campaign. Your $15 donation can provide 300 minutes of talk time from Afghanistan.

I'm so proud to be a part of this special USO effort. I know you'll do everything you can to help.


http://www.uso.org/

This morning was a good morning. I was a little concerned when I woke up as the clouds looked like they just might rain on our walk. It didn't matter though, we were going..., "come rain or come shine".


The walk for the March of Dimes had a great turnout, Especially since it was just for Rockville, MD and this same walk is/was going on all over the country. The "Linz" team aka...TEAM ROCKY:)) was able to raise $1650.00. I am very excited for that and we well exceeded our goal from last year.


Its been a journey over the last year and a half and April was Carter's due date although he came in January at 23.4 weeks. He is 20 lbs this week and although he just bounced back from a hospital stay and pneumonia last week, had a good time at the walk and made it through while taking a few short cat naps along the way. Smiles included, of course.


This week also brought with it some concern. First, I just want to say that as a Mom and this is my non-medical opinion, I think Carter will continue to prove everyone wrong. Carter was assessed this week in the High Risk Clinic. Now this is a group of 5-6 therapist and doctors. This setting does not involve blood test, xrays or any other invasive type of assessment but is purely done on a physical ability assessment with toys, cognitive development and physical strength. (rolling, sitting, talking...etc) They came to the conclusion that Carter "may" have Cerebral Palsy. In my mind, heart and soul, I think Carter just got over pneumonia, does things in Carter time and its too early to tell. Technically he is only 12 months corrected and really it is not until 18-24 months that a CP diagnosis can be made with any certainty. CP is also VERY broad.


So I am asking for continued prayer for Carter. He is so amazing and lifts me daily. I know in my heart, God has special plans for Carter and maybe his biggest lesson is that we should all believe. Even if all of his test confirmed this, it will not change the fact that Carter is so special and a miracle.


Please keep Carter in your daily prayers!

I remember when I was a little girl, I loved the wind. I used to stand on our picnic table in the back yard in Georgia and jump off. I thought I was "Wonderwomen". Little did I know that those bangles would become such a fashion statement in time...ha! I thought they just stopped bullets:)

Well I am not super, wonder or any adjective but I am me. With that comes a whole set of what am I? I think this is something we all search for everyday of our lives. I love shoes, this I am certain of. Number one reason...regardless of what time of month or if I have eaten two much of anything...they always fit and are faithful.They get me places, makes me feel special and allow me to never feel bloated. Gosh, I REALLY do love shoes!!!!

So this brings me back to my great search. Who am I? This is a question as parents we often ask ourselves as we should always lead by example. I hope I do for Carter daily.

As stated in the country music world last year, "I got lost in this big ole world and forgot who I am".

Country and shoes, they both just fit. Gotta love that~

Everyday I am amazed at people. I have learned that if you smile at a stranger, 99% of them will smile back. I have also learned that if you smile at someone who dislikes you, they will smile back too. It is unfortunate that under some smiles are thoughts. Not all good and not with good intention.

I find myself in a place today that I am once again stunned. I am stunned how someone can say something to a group of teens about someone that they really shouldn't. I am extremely protective when it comes to children and teens and I just don't get it. As adults and parents, we have an obligation to lead by example.

As parents, we are not rockstars, beauty queens, award winning authors or superstars...we are parents and that is and should be our first priority. Saying that, if someone has an issue with someone...as a parent or about their body parts...one should talk to the adult/parent and not a group of teens.

Bullying happens at all ages. Lead by example. No one is better than anyone in life. God is the higher power and not the individual.

Are we all living with Angela Landsbury?

One of our favorite shows is "Castle". As I was watching with my husband I was reminded that we all have a little bit of our Grandparents or parents in us with , "Murder, She wrote". There is nothing better than a who done it! I was in a murder mystery dinner theater for a show called, "Let's Kill the Boss". It ran for about a year. I was the choreographer also but I have to admit there weren't great dance numbers in it but pretty good one's:))) I was "Una"...the mistress. Not sure why but I was always typecast as the mystress, prostitute or soap type actress. I once had an agent tell me that I would never do well in commercials because I didn't look like I would feed my dog. Nice, huh!!!!! This is why you need to smile and smile big always!

So I think we all have a little Landsbury in us. We love mystery, we love to solve and most of all we love the fear of the unknown without any great "real" drama behind it. Danielle Steele, Star Wars, James Patterson...all great authors/sequels and well read in our family...oh and Murder She Wrote! Perhaps its because we always get to figure out good from evil. Pulitzer prize no, fun yes...read on.

Do you ever feel like you just aged 20 years in two? Today is one of those days that the only word that comes to mind is exhaustion. Andy has been gone on military duty for a while so I was managing the house, appointments and furries. This I am good at. The "list". Wake up...check....walk dogs...check...Carters appts check.....shower...check minus:) I function with the internal and external list. Then the hubby comes back and bamm...the list explodes!!!! Todays list....wake up, get Carter up and dressed, make Andy breakfast (yes I do that:), get taxes done, run errands...etc...etc...etc....so I am just tired which is ok. In fact it is great.

In a life that we function I think sometimes we forget to live, to love, to explore and most of all to forgive. A dear friend/family member of mine lost his Father. So today when I was feeling sorry for myself for my "list", I sat back and realized how amazing life is and the people in it. I thought to myself how short life is and how mad at myself I was for no reaching out more to those I love to let them know they are never alone and how special they are.

To Joey, I know today and tomorrow will be tough. Your Father knew you were an incredible son. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. Big hug to your Mom....we love you!

To the angels from above
Guard us with your special love
As we walk to unknown paths
knowing it will never last
Find a way, to let us see
For the love you see in me....

This is why, God gives us wings...to fly

Life is interesting. It definitely keeps you on your toes. It is hard to believe that tomorrow is my Birthday. Really, another one???? Time flies. I know we all hear that but it really does. One day 18 with the world in front of you then suddenly poof…30ish with the wonder of what you left behind.


I have had a good couple of weeks. I visited the American Heart Association office in DC and have been working on an educational program with the a Adventist Hospital chain in hopes of educating women on the signs, symptoms and realization that heart disease effects women of all ages and all weights. Through AHA my spot aired on our local ABC affiliate and I received a positive response. Many had no idea that I had had a heart attack and stent placed. We all hear life is short but until the realization that it really is hits you I think we all think, “naw, it will never happen to me.” In a land of super Moms, Teens and women in general we are all trying to prove something. The unfortunate thing is we can and often do loose ourselves in the process.

Andy, Carter and I also attended the PA International pageants. Scott and Jodi Cessna are amazing people and put on a great pageant. Thank you to the Competitive Image for providing me with the perfect dress for the event. They have the most amazing clothes and always make me feel like a queen or DIVA ))) I spend my life staring at monitors so it felt really good to shower and feel pretty! My hubby appreciated it also! We had a great time in Altoona, PA with the family and a wonderful and inspiring friend. It was also great to see so many visiting “queens” or as I like to call many of them, friends. Go Heidi Scheer for Ohio…sorry just had to put in a plug))))

I love the International system and that it promotes community service and platform (as a Mrs, that is 50% of your score). Congratulations to all the new queens in the Teen/Miss/Mrs PA International program. You will love nationals and the family it gives you and the amazing lesson you learn that if you walk in someone elses shoes, you will learn and grow. This is why I feel platform is so important. Everyone has a story. Imagine if our Grandparent wrote a book. This is where history begins!

This weekend, well, it is my Birthday. Without going into too much detail. This week was hard but Carter is doing well and I survived. My pending b-day….I will be sharing it with great friends and Carter. Andy is on Military duty((((

My walk for the March of Dimes is April 24th and I am so close to my goal. If you can provide support, thank you!!!! As a Mother of a former 23 weeker, I can attest that the March of Dimes makes a difference…everyday. It is a child’s life, so lets start it the right way.

Off to hit the treadmill AGAIN!!! Seriously, it may be gravity, it may be age, it may just be exhaustion but what is up with that dang treadmill. Its always trying to kick my butt!

I will always think that the greatest episode of survivor would be a season of pageant gals in the amazon. Lipstick, check....razor, check....padded bikini,,,,check.....competitive spirit...PRICELESS. Just lets not narrow it down to heros and villians!!!!! Wait that is what voy is for!

The day is starting to show the signs of spring. The remaining snow is cooling down the air as it melts but at least the temperature is in the 60's. Cloudy though in preparation of the rainy days to follow. At least we did have a full day of sunshine. Maybe it is the clouds or the pending rain but I starting thinking about everything. For me, this is not always a good thing:) I remember last year when I competed in Maryland for Mrs Maryland International and again over the summer at Mrs International. There were so many eyes and frank statements made in judgement on how I could do that when my son had been in the hospital for 165 days and still was struggling with many health issues. Carter was by my side but that didn't matter to some.There is something to the statement that if you sit down for too long you may not be able to get up. For me, it was a respite in a time of great struggle and how I survived outside of the tears I shed daily.

There was a child that passed when Carter was in the NICU that was tracking as Carter was and born as early. I was pretty horrified when the nurse commented that maybe it was for the best. I can't ever imagine that was the best for anyone and certainly not his parents. What this year and the 9 and 6 years prior since loosing my Mother and Father have taught me is that strength is found in God, in love and most importantly your family. I think my heart attack in January and surgery just made me realize that life is so very precious and it is important to always fight for those you love and advocate for them and their causes. When I look back I guess I could feel sorry for myself and I do at times, because I am human...but that can't be the state of which I live daily. Carter needs me and I need him. Last week after his surgery I think what hurt the most was that it took two days to get a smile from him. He gives LOTS of smiles daily so I was really in need of one. When he smiled I knew everything would be just fine.

Its important to not sit down for too long. This life waits for no one. Time moves ahead as I write but doesn't it always? It never stops. It is already two seconds past my last word. Time flies....ehhhhh....

Last night I met the most amazing young man in the PEDS ward. He just came up from the PICU and turned 15.His name is Ashton Ebert and has a blog on Caring Bridge. I found him so inspiring. I remember earlier in the day I saw him walking with his Mother. These are the true heros to me. Our children. All children.

Carter was discharged today from the hospital. It is so good to be home. The best part is all of the giggles I have gotten. That and I actually get a real shower and bed. Carter is such a trooper and I am certain will miss his daily flirts with the hospital staff. However, there is no better feeling than when the whole family is back together.

How does anyone ever get better in the hospital? You can never sleep?

Ahh...good to be home....early to bed for me!

I am sitting in the surgical waiting room at Walter Reed with so many thoughts that are going through my mind. We have been here almost a week and at some point it all just becomes a blur. I am happy that Carter seems to be ok with the change of scenary although I am sure he would like to once again feel the comfort of a full tummy. They stopped his feeds last Saturday in preparation for surgery and unfortunately due to complications, his surgery was moved until today. This gave his lungs time to be in the best shape possible and for that reason alone I am ok with it. He was smiling this morning but of course this was before they came in to attempt to draw blood and put drops in his eyes. (While Carter is sedated they are also going to take a look at his eyes.) The Nissen I have been told takes about 3 1/2 hours. Oh yeah...so I am sitting here worried and waiting.


I am carrying around Carters glow worm which is randomly going off no doubt making others wonder if I don't belong on another floor. We went to get coffee and a guy saw me kiss it and he winked at me. Yes, I looked a bit odd but I do find comfort in having it close to me as it is always close to Carter. Keep in mind I also travel with Halo, my first born pups (my favorite but don't tell Jack:), favorite doggie toy. Maybe I do need therapy. My husband often kids me that I probably shouldn't take her "favorite" toy.  What we Mothers do because we love our little one's so much!


I do have to wonder why waiting rooms are always so cold! The temperature gauge is of course guarded by the locked box so I have no chance of warming up what is a very chilly situation. There are a lot of people "waiting" so the room is filled with an awkward silence and the anticipation of a phone call or visit from a doctor carrying really good news. Its an odd feeling. Reminds me of flying. Once you are up in the air, you have no control. It is all in the hands of God.


So I am praying. Praying for our little plane to soar and land safely back home. May God watch over Carter, protect him and make him feel safe during the surgery. Mommy prays for a safe landing with no turbulance.

The weather report had us getting MORE SNOW today. I am so glad that after 10 feet of snow we got a break and they were wrong. I think the panic has set in locally as we are all afraid of what havoc Mother nature will once again bring upon us. I don't even think the ever so infamous groundhog could have predicted all of the weather we have recieved and certainly could have prepared the DC region in how to handle it all. Thus why many side streets are still not plowed.

Today I was reminded of this as I headed to Walter Reed Army Medical Center for an upper GI for Carter. I am always amazed on how Carter handles everything. He was so good. No tears, just smiles....

This of course was all fine and good until we headed to NNMC for his monthly synagist shots. This unfortunately did include tears but they were short lived and the smiles prevailed.

So I am sitting here tonight with the treadmill in front of me and my son by my side...functioning. That is probably the best way to describe it. I am so worried but if I allow myself to go there,,,seriously what good is that? My in laws are coming in Saturday so they will be here for Carters surgery. For this reason alone, I am ok with being at the hospital 24/7:))) Ok, kidding...kind of. I just don't think my Mother in law cares for me too much. Well, I know she doesn't but she is a great Mom to Andy and Grandmother to Carter and Carters only one. I feel very lucky for that. My Father in law is a jewel. Reminds me of Andy but shorter.

I recieved a flyer in teh mail today for Childrens Hospital to join theor marathon team. Many of Carters doctors also work at Childrens and also John Hopkins. I think I am going to do it. Carter inspires me and I mean that with all sincerity. I remember when Andy was deployed and I was alone in Germany. My puppy Halo made me get up and out everyday. The option was cleaning it up on the inside. I cried and she licked my tears. I needed a spoon...she was/is there. Carter gives me hope, faith and so many smiles. He makes me get out of myself and fight for what matters. For him, for us...

If you are able to give to the March of Dimes, American Heart Association, Childrens Hospital, Avons Walk for the cure or whatever is your passion, I hope you do. Give/donate in the name of someone in you life that inspires you. Sometimes its the smallest inspirations that make the biggest impact.

It is hard sometimes to understand why things happen in life. I know God only gives you what you can handle but I have to say I think he has more faith in me than I do in myself.


Last Friday Carter had a sedated CT scan of his lungs and head. His head showed that his ventricles have stabilized which is VERY good news. Unfortunately, his lungs appear to have worsened. This is his first CT as in the past it was all based on xrays and how he was doing clinically. We new he had "pulmonary blebs". The CT revealed a total of 6 of them. Believe it or not but this is not the cause of the recent lung issues. Carter has chronic aspiration which has resulted in significant damage to his lungs. We were told that they really have not seen a baby with lungs this bad before and this was an assessment of three pulmonologist. We have been given similiar information in the past when he was in the NICU but this was also when Carter clinically was showing signs of respiratory distress. Currently except for his increased need of oxygen, he is a VERY happy baby and looks good.


The overall assessment is that Carter is currently functioning on about 25% of his lung capacity. We have to stop the apiration of Carter or he has very strong possibilty of going into respiratory failure. They are doing a Nissen Fundoplication on Monday to hopefully stop the constant reflux . He will be admitted on Friday.


I pray he is quick to come off the vent as this is our biggest concern. I know in my heart he will. He is so amazing and you don't get much better than Carter. He has 6 teeth and the best smile ever. My

Rocky

.


I understand people have it worse and we feel so blessed for all the love and support we continue to receive. Nobody lives a life free of ailments either in themselves or a loved one. I am reminded of that everyday.

If I may ask, please include Carter in your prayers because praying does work! God is great and I believe that. I know he has the inside track and all will be fine.

WHEN DEANNA LINZ had a heart attack last month, no one believed what was happening — not even her. But the Rockville resident knew something was wrong that morning. "I felt pressure in my chest like a pill was stuck in my throat," she remembers. Then she had trouble lifting her 1-year-old son and grew increasingly anxious. So, Linz dialed 911 and went to the hospital.




"I thought I was being silly, and they thought so, too," she says. One ER nurse assured her it was just a pulled muscle. But since both of her parents died in their 50s of heart disease, the doctor ordered extra tests to be careful, and sure enough, it was a heart attack. She had a 70 percent blockage, which required immediate surgery.



"People don't realize that you don't have to be overweight or diabetic," she says. "There's this preconceived notion that there's a look to heart disease." And that look is nothing like Linz, an avid exerciser and non-smoker who "lives on chicken breasts and Boca Burgers."





She's such a model of healthy living that she's a star in the beauty queen world, and even competed to be Mrs. International 2009 (hence, the photo above). That pageant just happens to have an alliance with the American Heart Association's Go Red for Women campaign, which raises awareness about the fact that heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women in the U.S.



Linz was already well aware due to her family history. Her mother, who was just a size 6 when she passed away, also had trouble getting people to take her medical problems seriously. "They tried to put her on antidepressants," Linz says. Her father was "the healthy one" until he dropped dead after ignoring the signs of a heart attack.



There were lessons in those experiences for Linz. She's developed behaviors very different from that of her mother — a smoker from the South who ate her food deep-fried — and kept on top of her numbers with frequent doctor visits.



It wasn't enough to keep her immune to heart disease, but her vigilance promises to keep her ticker going despite it. Moving forward, she's happy to skip the hamburgers, walk as much as possible and take a handful of drugs every morning if it means she can spend more time with her husband and son.



And if Linz ever thinks something is amiss, she's not going to feel silly asking for help. "This has made me aware that life is short and precious, and you need to be an advocate for yourself," she says. "Nobody knows you better than you."



» Ticker Time: Valentine's Day is over, but it's still American Heart Month. And the American Heart Association is hoping you mark the occasion by visiting Heart.org/mylifecheck. The site walks you through a series of questions organized around "the simple seven," the factors that affect heart health: get active, control cholesterol, eat better, manage blood pressure, lose weight, reduce blood sugar and stop smoking. There's another online checkup available at Goredforwomen.com.



Photo courtesy Deanna Linz

Posted By Vicky Hallett at 12:00 AM on February 23, 2010 Tagged in Fit , Fit Newsletter , Maryland

http://www.virginiainternationalpageants.com/

Pageantry in perspective

Lets face it, most whom have competed have never won an Oscar, Emmy or Grammy. Yes, there are the Sharon Stones and Hally Berry's of the world but in all reality a pageant is just that, a moment in time. I believe in pageantry and love it. In a life where we live day by day a pageant affords you the opportunity to feel special for 5 minutes and hopefully it encourages you to get out there and give back everyday. It offers a wonderful platform for that.

This past weekend Andy and I attended the MD/VA pageants. I was able to perform and truly loved not having the pressure of competing!!!!! You have to love a sport where you ask 4 or 5 strangers to judge you in 5 minutes are less and yet we call it fun! Deshawn did a wonderful job and the pageant ran smoothly. Congrats to all of the winners. What an amazing group of ladies!!!!

If I may ask, please continue to support all of the ladies that competed. They really all did such a wonderful job and I would have been hard pressed to pick a winner myself.

So this brings me to this week. I am happy to say the snow has slowed down. YEAH!!!!! We are hoping to have a CT scan done of Carter's lungs to see how his pulmonary blebs are structured. We are hoping for good news. Please also say a prayer for our cousin who just found out she has a malignant tumor on her spine.

Much love to all and again congrats to all of the new International title holders from this past weekend. Alabama is next weekend. Hard to believe!!!!

For a complete listing of VA and MD Internationals newest title holders, please log on to:http://www.virginiainternationalpageants.com/

It is yet another snowy day here in the DC area. Snow in DC/MD/VA pretty much shuts down the world. The newscasts are covered with the scrolling graphics of school and government office closings. One of the funniest “notifications” I read today stated that a certain office was closed BUT “essential employees” must report to work. Now how would you read this? Do you just know if you are essential? If you are not essential is it a blow to your job confidence? Should you worry about job security? On the other hand, if you are essential exactly how essential can you be if you MUST drive into work and risk your life doing it? Is the company just trying to cut cost?
So today my non essential self will sit with my very essential brilliant child and enjoy the day. Inside…..well I do have to let the dogs out.

The sun is out today in Maryland and I am thrilled. Yesterday we were greeting by what Lois Lane called a blizzard. We are Florida gals so anything that sticks, is a blizzard! We attempted to head to Delaware were we we greeted by so much snow that we were crawling at about 20 miles an hour for the majority of the trip until we finally had to turn around. I did manage to do my first 180 on the highway. The angels were with us because no one hit us and we did not hit anyone. God is Great. Congrats o the new Mrs Delaware America. I am sorry I was unable to make it to judge but from what I had read, each lady deserved the crown and would have been a great representative so in a way it was a relief that I did not have to choose!

This past week has been a busy one. Lois Lane flew in on Tuesday to help me out while Andy was off with the military. I think everyone worries to much but I am feeling great and the idea of having a heart attack or that I did have a heart attack just does not seem real.

Carter had many appointments this week and overall, they were good. There are always ups and downs but as I have always said Carter does things in Carter time. As long as he gets there, he can take as long as he wants. We went to National Naval for visits with his pulmonologist, primary and high risk early intervention team. We are so lucky to have such an amazing group of doctors that follow Carter on his journey. We also travelled to Baltimore to visit with a Neuro surgeon for a consult on Carters hydrocephalus and the possible need for a shunt. Right now he does not. YEAH! Unfortunately, his pulmonary bleb has progressed a bit but we will push forward with his team and continue to be his biggest advocate. It is hard not to feel like there is something I am doing wrong but I know I can't go there. I am a Mom though and that is just what we do. We worry. All the time and then when there is nothing to worry about we worry why!

I also had the opportunity to share my heart story with WJLA, News Channel 8 in DC that will air on Friday the 5th. (NATIONAL WEAR RED DAY!)After working with AHA and Go Red for many years, they asked me if I would share my story. Not to be repetitious but I still am in shock. Hopefully by me sharing my story it will remind others that Heart Disease does not hold prejudice. It is important to know your numbers, live a healthy lifestyle, make the necessary changes and most of all...BE YOUR OWN ADVOCATE. Listen to yourself and listen to your heart. If not for yourself, but for your family.

On a funny or not so funny side note, I also developed a rash all over my body from one of my new meds. Oh yeah...nothing like a rash ALL OVER. Yes, that means EVERYWHERE:)

Off to visit with friends and Andy is going to see AVATAR. I look forward to the day when Carter can see a movie and love it. Have I mentioned yet today that he has the best smile!!!!!

Finding strength in Mondays~

It was a week ago that I found myself in the ER about this time. It still seems like it all was a bad dream. The realization is that life is short, I am blessed and really trusting your own instincts is key to early heart detection. My Father had a heart attack starting about 9 am in the morning but refused to go to the hospital until "after work". He passed away two weeks later after double valve replacement. I think perhaps this was in my mind during the event. I can't help but think my parents were there guiding me along the way. I have to be healthy and be HERE for my son. He fought for me, I will ALWAYS fight for him.

So today is a holiday at our house because my husband is in the military. Unfortunately this also means that we get to get things done that we usually don't have time for like taking the car into the dealership. $1000 later....ugh....and many hours of him waiting....the car should be fixed. Always something, right?

I also want to address what today is. It is Martin Luther King Jr's Birthday.

(source wikipedia)

Martin Luther King, Jr. (January 15, 1929 – April 4, 1968) was an American clergyman, activist and prominent leader in the American civil rights movement. His main legacy was to secure progress on civil rights in the United States, and he has become a human rights icon: King is recognized as a martyr by two Christian churches.[1] A Baptist minister,[2] King became a civil rights activist early in his career. He led the 1955 Montgomery Bus Boycott and helped found the Southern Christian Leadership Conference in 1957, serving as its first president. King's efforts led to the 1963 March on Washington, where King delivered his "I Have a Dream" speech. There, he raised public consciousness of the civil rights movement and established himself as one of the greatest orators in U.S. history.

In 1964, King became the youngest person to receive the Nobel Peace Prize for his work to end racial segregation and racial discrimination through civil disobedience and other non-violent means. By the time of his death in 1968, he had refocused his efforts on ending poverty and opposing the Vietnam War, both from a religious perspective. King was assassinated on April 4, 1968, in Memphis, Tennessee. He was posthumously awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 1977 and Congressional Gold Medal in 2004; Martin Luther King, Jr. Day was established as a U.S. national holiday in 1986.

I encourage everyone today to honor his legacy. Make a difference. Today is a day of service, prayer and thanks.

Love to all~

Deanna

I cried today and not because I am sad. It was a release for me and it felt good and scary. I just let myself go. It is hard when things come your way not to feel sorry for yourself. I have always said that it is wrong to judge someone unless you walk personally in someones shoes. For me today, I cried alone. As a Mom and wife that is what we usually do and that is ok. Because we are never alone as we are surrounded by love, God, Family and friends.

I am doing well. Home...healthy and happy.I have a stent in my heart and my groin is sore and not from anything good:) but I am good. I feel so blessed but it is ok if every once in a while I say or hope for enough! Here is to health, happiness and just a great 2010. I fear saying this as I did just 16 days ago also. I dare not challenge!

I would like to reiterate that I feel so blessed for my son Carter, my hero....my husband, Lois Lane, Amy Gregorio....Clay, Joey, Jules (both of you:) Jervaun and all the love that has come our way.

Both of my parents passed away in their 50's from heart disease. My story has begun over 25 years earlier. Trust your body, your instincts and NEVER let anyone make you feel stupid.

Life is precious

It is hard to say sometimes when the sun rises, just how your day will end up. Me, I personally like to start each day a little better and a little bit happier than the previous day. Some days, however somethings are just out of your control. First comes my disclaimer on any writing or grammar issues as I am on percocet. Don't worry, it has been prescribed:)I am in the hospital and it is 5am.

I woke up yesterday and started my day as the norm. Husband breakfast...check. Son up....check. My last antibiotic from my prescription...check. This in itself was an accomplishment considering I am not a fan of taking anything (even percocet:) but sometimes when feeling sick, you have too. I had been battling a cold/flu.

After swallowing the horse pill, I started to feel some discomfort in my chest. In my mind I went through the analogies. The pill is stuck in my throat, maybe it is anxiety or maybe it was all in my head. About 10 minutes later the pain had worsened and I found myself unable to pick up Carter.

911 and a million apologies for feeling stupid for requiring attention I found myself in the ER being told my cardiac enzymes where elevated and I in all likelihood had had a heart attack. So I had an angiographm and found out I had a blockage. Angioplasty was performed and a stent was placed. I had in fact had a heart attack.

Looking back on the past few days, a few things stand out. For one, when I came into the ER I was greeted by a rather rude nurse who assumed I probably just had a pulled muscle. I am young, healthy, not over weight, don't smoke and not diabetic. Why would I be having a heart attack? The doctors were great though and I can attribute much of that to having a lady doctor who took me seriously and did not make assumptions. Due to my family history alone, she decided to do a work up and not just send me home. They all were shocked. I was/am shocked. I still cannot believe I had a heart attack.

It is because of my family history and volunteering with Go Red and AHA that I was aware of "my" norm and when I should be concerned. That and my son. I remember just thinking I had to be there for him so I need to get this checked out. I felt stupid, silly, in pain and scared. Some initial assumptions made me feel stupid, silly and scared. Bottom line is I had a heart attack. I no longer feel stupid or silly but yes, I still feel scared. I am glad I listened to my body.

You know it is funny. The holidays come and go yet the lights and tree remain. Some are due diligent in getting everything down,labeled and carefully stored for next year, complete with an inventory list, no later that January 2. Myself, this is not the case. I did feel better as I arrived home last evening to find my neighbors with lights still up and a manager scene that looked like Santa personally landed on it; however, I realized that enough is enough. I am, keep in mind, the one who cries at all the demised trees along the side of the road. What did they do but give us joy for a month. Look what we did for them. Cast away like an old girlfriend or boyfriend to the side. No calls, no answers and even amongst all the fits of drinking and dialing we still ignore. Sad really. Which is why we do fake.

I grew up in Georgia then Florida so we switched from pine to palm and just planted them in the yard at New Years. What happened to those days?

Today my journey is to finish packing the ornaments. The tree remains lit in our bedroom and living but makes such a beautiful night light. My husband ran the lights so I can't be blamed if those aren't down yet, yet?

Anyone know what I can do with my un-carved pumpkin from Halloween that still is sitting on my porch? I think I have a problem. I love the holidays!

I may not fit into the redneck women song because I love Champagne and Victoria Secret but I will happily sit on my porch next to my pumpkin and lights darning both. While drinking champagne of course.....

I cannot believe 2010 has arrived. It is hard to believe that one year ago I was still in the hospital and Carter's journey had just begun after being born at 23.4 weeks gestation. I am filled with so many emotions of the past but perhaps the biggest thing I should learn is to move forward, learn, grow and let the bad just go.

We had a great Carter birthday week with Carter experiencing his first cake and taste of the frosting with that amazing little smile on his face. I am sure he was thinking, "hey Mom, this isn't green beans!" Ahhh, life begins and so does the journey that will one day lead me into a McDonalds where I can order a milkshake for my son and really mean it was/is for my son:)

Today I had the pleasure of facing my New Years resolution one on one. See, I vowed to cleanse and be healthy. Working out, no alcohol (maybe a glass on Friday:)and a general cleanse. I did so under the premise of MY SCALE. It all seemed so easy and then BAM...I got the flu. Now this can be good for weight loss although I don't recommend it; however, I had to face the scale at the doctors office. You know, the REAL ONE. So I faced my demon and promptly came home and started a weight loss/food tracker. I guess I should not have eaten that pizza over New Years or the bottle of champagne. Hooohum....the journey begins.

All this time I just thought the dry cleaners was shrinking my pants.

Starting weight: cough...hack...spit
Goal Weight: 90% of my wardrobe in my closet minus those really comfy sweats!