The streak is complete!

Did you think I gave up that close to the end?  Think not!  With family in town I didn't have the chance to update the blog the last few days of May - but I did it!  And I plan to continue this active streak for the rest of the year. 

So, what have I learned?

• I need to accept limitations.  Everyone has them - I do (as in - don't run EVERY DAY) and Evie does too.  It's not a sign of weakness or something that needs to be fixed - it is what it is.

• BELIEVE.  I know I said everyone has limitations, but you can get a lot more done than you could ever imagine if you believe it.  The power of positive thinking....

• Alone time makes you stronger.  My mind felt clear and I felt empowered with just that thirty minutes of "me" time.  I will not feel guilty about it any more.

• Love is the most powerful thing in the world.  I love my daughters with all of my heart - in a way I couldn't have explained to you four years ago, and I will do anything in my power for them. 

• God chose me to be Evie's mom.  I don't know why, but I am so, so glad he did. 

• And, finally, Evie is going to do big things.  I know every parent says things like that - as they should - but I have seen big things already.  She loves a challenge....

Butterfly on her shoulder...

Thanks for following me on this journey and I think I might just continue this little blog to talk about my experiences raising Evie.  This has been therapeutic in a way.

If you feel inclined, share the story of Evie and pediatric stroke with someone today.  And... who wants to streak with me next May?!?

~Jana

Day 26

What a day!!!  Work was... well.... it wasn't fun - I'll say that. 

I got my sit ups in after Delaney went down for the night - couldn't do many push-ups - the arms are burning, which is a good thing.  Is it just me or is the instant side effect to having a child getting fat arms?!?  Why the arms?  I find myself avoiding anything sleeveless with these chubby arms I have right now... argh!

We have been having trouble with Evie and headaches lately.  She has complained at least one day a week for the past month.  Are they real?  How do you tell?  For right now we are keeping track of the days and times and making her lay down immediately when she complains (sometimes that will cure them instantly :)), but it does concern me quite a bit.  We probably need to get a referral to a new neurologist - one that specializes in kids like her.... 

I hope you all have a fabulous weekend.  Only four more days left in the streak!!

~Jana

Day 25...

My streak is suffering due to a crazy work schedule.  Didn't get home until 11 pm tonight so there was no running for me - and I had to rush to even get my sit-ups and push-ups in before the clock hit midnight!! 

I actually feel awesome right now it is merely the work schedule that is keeping me from getting out there.  I can't seem to drag myself out of bed in time to run in the morning when I am up half the night working...  If I can just get to Saturday it should all settle down... at least for awhile...

The struggles of being a working mom are crazy and I am feeling it even more right now.  The only reason why I saw Delaney tonight was because she woke up for a bottle - I didn't see Evie at all...  I feel robbed after nights like that - but I will make up for it in the morning with some quiet snuggle time with both of them - I can't wait for this weekend!!!

How is everyone else's streak going?!?  We are in the home strech - less than week left. 

~Jana

Day 24

Had a work function that kept me out late so I had to settle for some sit-ups and push ups.  Man! I am weak!  You would think lugging a little on around all the time (and I mean ALL the time these days - she won't let me put her down) I would be a little stronger...  I have to get this body back into shape!

We got a note in the mail today from Evie's preschool teacher and I wanted to share what she had to say about Evie:  "It has been such a privilege getting to know you these last few months.  Your love of life and determination have been an inspiration to all of us..."

That pretty much describes her - despite her challenges and struggles she really does truly love life. 

This morning we went through everyone coming to town this weekend and she concluded by saying "I want all of these characters to watch me ride my bike."  She was right - they are a bunch of characters, but we are so glad they will be on their way shortly. 

~Jana

Day 23

I'm back!!! Slowly but surely I jogged for thirty minutes tonight!  I am very pleased to be back out there and I hope to continue for the next eight days.

I am trying to get a lot done at work this week as we are having LOTS of family in this weekend for Delaney's baptism.  It will be so nice to see family.  It is difficult to be so far away from everyone and there are days I feel like we should pack up and head closer...

Have a great Tuesday everyone!

~Jana

Day 22...

We did a lot of yard work today - planting flowers and hanging planters.  I also did 20 push ups and 20 sit ups.  Thought I might get to run today, but I really don't want to push it.  One more day of rest on the joints I think.

Evie pointed with her right hand today to show me something without being promtped!  Sounds small, but its a big deal to us!!!

~Jana

Day 21...

It was actually a beautiful day today! Nice change from all the rain - although I hear more is coming.  Evie and I went out for a long bike ride/walk.  We are working on learning to pedal her bike.  I have to get her going with my hands, but she can do it pretty well! 

Running may happen tomorrow... the knees are feeling almost normal! :)

~Jana