spring projects

Since I am feeling refreshed, I have started my to do list for spring. Yes, I know it is a  bit early, but I am in the mood, so go with it! I hope to get more organized this spring and summer. Since I work from home, I have a lot more time to see the "problems" in the house. I walk by them daily.

So, I have made a list, that is growing by the minute. Little things to organize and make my house "feel better".  Painting little projects, and big projects. Cleaning up the basement! Big job! Steve and I are going to do that one together. Evan needs a space.....a space to hang out with his friends. His room is too small and we don't want big, somewhat stinky boys in the living room.

I also am really going to work on the outside of the house. I know this won't happen until at least May, but I can't wait!  Love spring! If you are happy at home, you are happy in your life!

What's on your list sister??
                                                             

It's Tempting!

6 lbs is great! I have more to lose, so my 13 is like your 6. I am surrounded by good fish, and veggies while on vacation, but everything is tempting!! I can get through it ok if I taste little bites here and there. My biggest thing is, I hate feeling hungry. I don't know why, it's not like I was ever starving to death.

I too feel so much better not eating carbs. I had heartburn every night before the diet. Now, almost never. I have not started exercising yet. I love to walk, but I don't want to on the ice and snow. My injured feet are still killing me down here, so I haven't done anything here except swim. I am so excited to start Jazzercise when I get home. Now, where did I put those leg warmers!

One day at a time. That's all we can do. I seriously envy skinny people. I think, how do they do it? But I know that skinny people our age work out- probably daily. That's the only way to get in fit! I think walking is the best, but running is even better.

I will be leaving the beautiful views and fresh air of Florida in a couple days. It refreshed me! I am ready to tackle February, and take on March. If I have to get my hair dryer out there in March to melt the snow, I will do it!
K :)
                                  
                                       A perfect low carb meal!

slow and steady

I've lost 6 lbs in two weeks.  I thought it was hilarious when my horoscope in the paper this a.m. told me to exercise today!  I know you've lost more than double of that, but I am not an expert dieter...I should be, but I am not cut out for the absolute no carb ever diet.  I do think the Horoscope gods are speaking to me though....treadmill is a callin!

It's amazing, however, how much better I feel when I just focus on cutting out the sugar.  I'm also surprised at how satisfied I am with substitutes...like Udi's gluten free breads....it's just what I need with my eggs and a little cheese in the morining.  Today I had one toasted slice with laughing cow cheese spread on the top, then topped the cheese with a sliced, hard boiled egg.  YUM. 

What I really need to work on though, is the feeling of "oh screw it, I deserve this piece of cake."  What I deserve is to be healthy and comfortable in my body.  I'm still adhering to my "kindness" mantra.  We'll see where that gets me...

We were the skinny Knutson girls....and every since we became Moms, our weight has crept up....not blaming the kids, or our genes (!), but let's get a grip!  We've only got one life, Sister! 

The hardest part for me is making ME a priority.  I feel guilty, for some reason, when I am the priority...like I should be doing more work or something around the house or for the kids.  It's crazy, I know, but that is what I need to figure out. 

I know you're vacationing....lots of great seafood and produce where you are....eat it all!  You'll feel even better after this vacation if you keep losing while you're there!!!!  Great job, Sissy!

Heidi

appointments

Mammogram, dentist, internist, ob/gyn...made all of my yearly appointments today....overdue on them all!  So, by the first part of March, I should either be depressed or in great shape!  I am usually a everysixmonthsforcleaning type girl, but my dentist's receptionist said I haven't been there since 2009!  THAT is what happens when I have a campaign year...regular up keep goes to the sidelines.  Oh well, 2011 is a new year.

I need a haircut too.  Had a great haircut when I went to Kohler in November...I'm overdue for that now too.  However, I have yet to find anyone in Madison to cut my hair.  IF I find someone I like, she usually ends up moving or, like the last one, cuts it great the first time, then can't seem to do in subsequent appointments.  I loved my hair cut at Kohler, but maybe it was because it was at Kohler....I day dream about Kohler Spas...truly one of the best, MOST relaxing experiences of my life.  I actually think (almost every morning) about sending Chris and the kids off in the morining and then packing a light bag of champagne, a good book and magazines and heading east to pick up my buddy Linda and then hightailing it into the land of bliss...

Scones and high tea, appetizers, wine, a pedicure, a massage, soaking in the spa...losing track of time and real life...

All I want for my birthday this year is a return trip to Kohler Spas....I think that is the best appointment I can make for myself all year...good for my mental health too!

Heidi

hat is off!

Thank goodness the BITTER cold has left the midwest...heading out for a walk with George in just a bit...should be a balmy 25 or so today!

With January wrapping up and February (the only two bad months in Wisconsin) approaching, I am going to plan several fun events for February...not sure what they are yet, but they will include lots of girlfriend lunches, several swim meets, going to movies in the middle of the week in the middle of the afternoon,  a Valentine making lunch with a couple of friends and lots of good cooking! 

You'll soon be basking in the Florida sun...lucky girl!  Hope you all have a blast - go to the beach every, single day!

Saw a great email address the other day..."ifmommaainthappy@..." - loved it!  Love that Momma's attitude!

Heidi

Embrace Winter.....

I keep my house warm this time of year. My thermostat stays at 70 during the day and up to 73 at night. It costs a lot, but it is worth it to us. I HATE BEING COLD! If we had it below 70 we would get too cold! How can you stand it? You in a hat, Miss Hot Head, it really must be cold!!!! Remember, we don't have central air, so I think we save in the summer. It all evens out!


When I was enjoying the outdoors with Lily at Girl Scout camp last weekend, I realized how little I do with her outside. We go sledding, but that is about it. That is pathetic! She went cross country skiing and loved it! I am going to make it a mission in the next month or so to take her. Embrace Winter!
Did I tell you, I hate to be cold....
Big shout out to Chris! Happy day Brother!
K:)

C O L D

...I am wearing one of Peter's wool caps in my house right now.  I wore it to bed last night.  I've been wearing a sock or a mitten on my right hand at night because my wrist hurts when it's cold.  In this old, cold house, I need to "defrost" the dinner plates in the microwave before I put food on them (not kidding!  Dad and I like to refer to that cupboard is the plate chiller).  Took George on a walk today and when we got to the end of the block, instead of crossing the street, he turned around and we trotted back home.

 We might not make it above zero tomorrow.  Wind chill factor might be -25.

This is damn cold, but we come from hearty Norwegian stock...we can handle it, right?!
Heidi

Nothing ever stresses her out

I think the word absolutely is fine, if used sincerely. But, I know what you are talking about. Any word can be overused. Such as besides, really and no way!


Do you know of anyone who seems to be in la la land. People will say, nothing ever seems to bother her, she never gets stressed out. How about she seems like she is on drugs! It drives me crazy! These same people get away with being late for everything, getting lost, and forgetting how to carry on a conversation. I find it to be annoying.


I am going to go see the movie! It looks really, absolutely fabulous! Ha!
K:)

"absolutely"

...I say this with kindness, and it's not directed at anyone, but "absolutely" is so over used....seems to be everyone's go to phrase lately.  I hear it in meetings constantly.  Also, people who say it, can't seem to stop saying it.  "Yes" or "I agree" are just fine and less annoying.  Whaddya think Sissy?

Heidi

King George

We just saw The King's Speech last night.  By far one of the best performances EVER by ANYONE... by Colin Firth.  Makes me (and I am sure thousands of others) want to run out and get my hands on any book about the wonderful King George.  I know very little about him except that I have read over and over that Queen Elizabeth and Princess Margaret adored their father.  The Queen Mum's portrayal by crazy Helena Bonham Carter lived up to her beloved reputation as well.

It was a bittersweet, lovely story of friendship and I loved it.  I have a soft spot for men and dogs named George.

sums it up perfectly

I love the Zac Brown band.  Their song "Hwy 20 Ride" just came on.  I think it's the perfect love song from a parent to a child.  It's about a Dad who is divorced and isn't with his son all of the time.  But, the line that gets me every time is "so when you drive and the years go flying by, I hope you"ll smile if I ever cross your mind, it was the pleasure of my life and I cherished every time and my whole world, it begins and ends with you..."

Heidi

white and nate

White appliances or disguised appliances is the way to go....stainless is ugh.  The only exception is a stainless oven/stove, but the rest, no. 

Nate, nope, never watch him.  I don't really watch shows during the day...if I'm home, I have on CMT or the food network or just listening to music....really into Allison Krause right now and as always, my dear Tim McGraw and my bad boy Kid Rock.

Ta ta for now!  Heidi

Love Nate!

Have you watched the Nate Berkus show?? I love that show. Yes, he is a former Oprah prodigy, but I look past that, because he is so great!  I usually get to watch it on Monday's if I am home, its on in the morning.

He is a interior designer. He has great tips and cheap fixes! He also does a lot of NICE stories on makeovers, sad stories and cool places to go. He is kind of modern with a bit of Pottery Barn and Restoration Hardware. Give him an hour....you will like it!

Speaking of Restoration Hardware...I really used to love going in that store. I still do on occassion. But it is so expensive, it's crazy! The whole store right now is all linen.  Light linen chairs, couches, pillows, walls etc. I love that, but in MN it is not practical unless you can change everything-every season. I really am beginning to love going into little shops....like the "shop around the corner". Gypsy Moon is so fun, Patina and of course Bibelot.   I like seeing things noone else has...what's your take sis
:)K

If not stainless, then what?

I know, I hear that all the time, stainless, gotta have it, gotta love it! I do really like the look of it, probably because mostly I don't have it, but I also have heard the same thing from people. Fingerprints, spotting, etc... I think I could live with it!

But if not stainless, then what?? Are you saying that enough people are going to stop buying it and go back to white....perfect...I will be styling! I am sorry to say, I hate my white. I would buy stainless next. I am not a fan of black. It is too manly, boyish for me.

I like your idea of being nice! Nice is good....everyone likes nice! I really try to be nice, but sometimes something just takes over me. But, I am going to try this year. 2011, is going to be good. You make it good or else...oops sorry, nice, right.

Good luck finding an intern.  It's a NICE thing....see you are already on your way of niceness!!!
:) K

HGTV and stainless steel

This may be a bit snarky, but oh well.  Like you, I am an HGTV/Food Network addict....while cooking, cleaning up, I've got one of them on.  I have to say, if I hear the comment "oh, I like the stainless steel" (as in appliances) one more time.....ugh!  Everyone I know that owns it, regrets it...fingerprints everywhere!!!  Not sure how this craze started, but get over it!!! 

On another note, more kind note, my Blessings in Tanzania Foundation is getting an intern from the UW-Madison...I start interviewing next week!  Yahooooooooo!

hmmmmm....

First of all, love your vignette...very cute, although I'm not sure I see a picture of Auntie Heidi ;)...I'm getting to the Christmas tear-down tonight.

Other resolutions?  I think my resolution of kindness is all I need...I think it will be just the thing for a good year.  More kindness given - that includes to my husband, children, family, friends, strangers and myself.  I think it will encompass exercising, eating well and cooking well, taking TIME for the little things....listening, "being there" and relaxing. 

I remember growing up that people used to comment all the time that I was always smiling/always happy...I was!   Smiling and kindness are limitless so I'm going for it!

By the end of the year, when people think of me, I hope they would say "she is so nice." 

p.s. my gumbo was not a hit tonight...Emma said it looked like barf.  Chris said "I like it but I like your chicken chili better."  Peter won't touch it.  I loved it.  Oh well....making Swedish meatballs for dinner tomorrow night. 

A NEW YEAR- A FRESH START!

Ok, I know everyone says, this is going to be a great year! I will accomplish so much! I hope to, I plan to ......etc.  But, I really want it to be a great year. Why can't it be? It's up to me!  I know we have talked a lot about what we need in life, what are expectations are, and how to be better. But, I think I am ready to take it on! I like what you said about being nicer. I love that.  I think that is a great way to start. Be positive. Don't dwell. We only have one life, let's live it!
Here are some of my steps to a great 2011

Step 1 -
Stick to the BL11 (Biggest Loser) contest!  Be accountable, and lose weight..for me.

Step 2 -
Be better.  Now be better at whatever .....could be, be a better wife, mom, sister, child. Or it could be, be better at knitting, working out, dieting, eating.

Step 3 -
Try something new!  I was surrounded by beautiful, cute and very sellable items at Bibelot. I thought, I could do that. I am going to try to use my creative side this year to actually make something, that I could possible sell. 

Step 4-
Live!  Just enjoy life!  Enjoy everyday with my family.  Hug and kiss more. 

So sister..I am happy for you, that you are happy in your new job.  You know what makes you happy, no one else. I love working from home. I am a home body! But, I love to get out too.  Date night with Steve or family night with the kids. Love it. 

Spent the day on Monday, my day off, cleaning up and putting away Christmas.  I had a great time, rearranging, and actually taking the time to put things away the correct way. Labeled the bins, boxed everything up, the right way. 

I rearranged the living room, and created a really cute "display" on top of my shelf unit.  Adding picture in a minute, after I find some darn batteries for the camera!!! 

So I say to you sister, what is your short list for 2011---besides being nicer?
-K :)

happy is worth it

Being a "consultant" has it's ups and downs.  Luckily, my husband has great benefits so we don't need me for health insurance, etc., but I also don't have a personal pension/retirement.  We've opened an IRA for me, but we need to contribute to it more often.  I also have usually a few months in between campaigns/jobs, but never more than a couple.

After this landslide of GOP love in Wisconsin, I was offered some "real" jobs...at the Capitol...back in the legislature where I started out in college.  I was flattered.  I thought I was excited.  Two weeks before Christmas I said yes to a job in a high ranking Senator's office.  They gave me a bit of flexibility and it was a great job.

It was also like a black cloud hanging over my holiday...didn't know just how black until I came to my senses/talked to Chris on December 26 (in some loud voices on our way home from his parents' home).  He didn't know how much I did NOT want to return to the world of 8 hour-dress up every day-30 min. lunch break-10 days of vacation/year-rush out the door-scramble to make dinner nightmare.  As Emma said "our family doesn't work like that."   My Mom said she could tell I wasn't happy about it...said I made a funny noise whenever the subject came up.  That's not to say I am "better" than a "normal" job, but my kids are used to me being home.  I love working from home.  I can put in crazy, 50+ hour weeks during a campaign, but I'm doing it from home.  My breaks include walks with George, doing the laundry, making dinner, making the beds, arranging flowers, picking them up and driving them any where and at any time, blogging (!), not worrying about days "off".  It is a good life.

And, I've already got a new client.  A Supreme Court Justice's re-election campaign...three short months until election day and I couldn't be happier at 9:15 a.m....blogging, laundry going, Charlie on my lap, waiting to hear from the campaign manager about our plan, walking George after lunch, picking up Emma at 2:30 (early release day) and coming home to make gumbo for dinner.