The Woolf Pack

Results + Restlessness

I don’t mean to post this a few days after Mother’s Day…but test results came back “normal” according to the Dr. who administered my HSG test. I will not go into details as some of you may be eating as you read this, and quite honestly it wasn’t that bad. I even got some nifty socks to take home! I am slightly restless because I am waiting for a phone call from my OB to schedule a time to really go over the test results and what it means for going forward.

I have been thinking (imagine that) about what this all means for me, my possible role as a mother some day, or my possible role as a “mother” in the non literal sense. I can’t ignore the constant comments that are directed towards my positiveness about our “situation.” I am thankful that my parents taught me that life isn’t always what we think it’s going to be. I can’t remember a time in my life that either of my parents complained about anything and it sometimes rubs off on me. I am appreciative of everyone’s kind words, I just hope I don’t come off with a callous attitude towards the subject. Although, am I supposed to be constantly sad about it? Should I be always be feeling sorry for myself that I’m almost 32 and not a mom yet? Don’t answer that, I’m not totally positive either. Yes, sometimes I do cry about it and whine to James that it’s not fair. I’ll be honest though, when we’ve been out late on a Friday night and I look over at the clock and it says 10 a.m. and James is still sleeping, I smile.

I smile because this is our life right now. This could always be our life and I’m OK with it. We’ve still got plenty of time, and plenty of other options to figure out if I’m cut out to be a mother or not. Although we’re not totally sold on any of our options as they are just that, options.

Anyhow, that’s the 411 on that portion of our lives.

Now for random non-related happenings:

Last week I went to the jewelry store to send my ring in since one of the small diamonds fell out. I MIGHT have said sorry like 3 times after going off slightly when the unassuming associate informed me it would be $300 to get it replaced b/c someone returned my extended warranty. Good thing for him, I kindly reminded him it was never returned and my crowned jewels should be in my hands by Friday, free of charge.

James has officially ONE year of school left for his undergrad! I might be more excited than him, and for sure more proud! (he’s just a lot more humble than I am). He’s been doing fantastic at his internship and is enjoying all the programs he’s learning. We’re not focusing too much on the future just yet…you know finding a full-time job, applying for grad school etc…we’re just focusing on that expensive piece of paper! (keep an eye out in a year or so for a invitation to a killer grad party).

I might be hooked on Army Wives. Before you judge, it’s on netflix, so whenever there’s a hint of funny business coming on I fast forward. I think right now I’m watching episode 48…hey remember I don’t have kids and I don’t have cable OK!

And I can’t close a post without talking about going to grad school. It’s one of those nagging feelings I can’t get rid of, I know it’s something I need to do, I just don’t know for what or when. I have career ADD. I love hair, I love the creative world of marketing and advertising, I love helping people solve their problems and connecting them with the answers. For now I’ll be an underpaid therapist that can help you maximize your marketing dollars all the while shaping your eyebrows and making your hair color pop!

Here we go!

Tomorrow’s the day I go in for my HSG : http://bit.ly/HZyFq test. I know it’s not the longest procedure to have done, but I’m very interested to find out what they can see! I’ve been told by other friends who have had this done before, it’s not the most comfortable thing…but I’m ready to go!

Someone told me to go on you tube and watch it being done…..I think I’ll stay in suspense until tomorrow

I have what?

Methyltetrahydrofolate Reductase (MTHR) gene and Prothrombin gene. Those not-very-easy words flowed out of my OB Dr.’s mouth this afternoon when I went for my test results.

Let me back up a few weeks so you can look with a crinkled nose at those words too. (my nose has been crinkled all day). I had my 6th miscarriage about two weeks ago. Bummer. It had been over a year since my last one, so the symptoms were no surprise. We went through the drill again, got my blood work done, and done again (I think a total 15 vials to be exact). Finally the OB was like “whatchu talkin’ bout willis” (ok more like, “we need to get answers for you). I have been sans medical insurance for about 4 yrs so this was the first time we were able to even think about getting some answers. I am eternally grateful for medical assistance, and will never take it for granted. (love being a poor student family .

Today the test results came back. She had good and bad news. Good news some of the issues I was being tested for, I didn’t have. Bad news is they tests were a little inconclusive and further testing is needed. Should be a good time when this test happens. Depending on the results of that test I might need to have surgery. HELLO, I have never had surgery before!!! Good thing while she was describing this possible surgery to me she never uttered the words invasive or long recovery! I’m not stressing about the possibility though, because that’s all it is, a possibility. Just like the possibility of me becoming the next Mrs. Universe, it could happen!

So getting back to the said mutations of my genes I can’t really expand on them, but I do know they’re not that serious. Still, left unattended to could lead to other things. My OB told me a little about them, so if you really want to know, you can call/email me and we have a mutational good time talking about it!

I’m totally bummed out because let’s be honest, I’d be a super mom. I can’t decide if I’m holding back my emotions or if I really am kleenex’d out from being emotional about this whole process. The only time I almost shed a tear was when my OB said they have a program that will help me be able to afford the tests that need to be done. If it weren’t for my support system that includes but is not limited to: Husband, Family, Friends, Co-workers, Jesus Christ, Heavenly Father – there is no doubt I would be a blubbering mess. I am thankful for the strength I have found in myself during this and my vulnerability as well. For all my friends who are experiencing the same thing as myself in a different way, chin up, you are loved. It’s ok to be sad, but it’s even more ok to be happy too. That’s what I am, a happily sad woman. Everything’s going to workout whether it’s the way I envision it is a different story. I’ll admit I’m finally starting to learn my lesson – patience is a virtue.

P.s. if you can say “Methyltetrahydrofolate Reductase” 10 times fast, I’ll give you a $1.

Last one

Seeing as how we have 11 days left in 2010 and I haven’t blogged in about 8 months, this will probably be my last post for the year. Don’t cry, it’ll be ok.

Our camera decided to go into hibernation about 5 months ago, and still haven’t made it to a repair shop to see if it can be awoken..so there won’t be any exciting pictures sorry!

While driving to church today we picked up a friend from our ward and she was telling us how journaling is something that keeps her going everyday. She has a journal and a pen at her bedside everyday. It got me thinking about how important it is to capture life, while insignificant as I may feel it is.

Looking back on what’s happened in the last 8 months it can be summarized as follows:

I turned 31
James got more gray hairs
James got employee of the month…2x
I switched salons and received my Manager’s license
A new sweet baby girl was born on the Woolf side
I get a cute new baby girl cousin ANY day now!
My dad was called as the Cleveland Stake Patriarch (he is amazing)
My mom & I went to Mexico for my cousin’s wedding, it was caliente in every sense of the word!
I was the matron of honor in a friend’s wedding – the first time I ever had to give a speech!
James & I celebrated 4 years of wedding bliss (I truly feel like the luckiest girl)
James was offered an internship that he’s been enjoying for the last couple of weeks (and it’s paid!!)
We have watched almost every documentary on nextflix…aside from the ones about dogs
My friend Margo and i did a “Favorites Party” it was probably one of the funnest party’s I’ve been to!
I have seriously been thinking about going back to school to get my MBA (James says I think too much!)
I started weight watchers again only to give up again….2011 is a new year
I sent away to get information on becoming foster parents…haven’t heard anything back yet, but just want to be informed in case we aren’t able to have children (not giving up hope though!)
And lastly I’m kind of freaking out that Christmas is this week!!!!!!! In a good way, like “Oh my gosh I am going to eat so many cookies in less than a week” kind of freaking out.

{random thought}
Have you ever started randomly crying because you’re happy? Ok, so I always randomly start crying for no reason. My most recent “episode” was about 11 p.m. this past Friday when we were driving to Pittsburgh for a friend’s graduation. Obviously it was dark outside and I think we were listening to Linkin Park (so soothing). Out of nowhere I just started crying after looking over at James. I cannot comprehend the love that Heavenly Father has for me (and you). He loves me so much to give me an amazing husband to mostly put up with me, but to laugh with me and have a wonderful life together. Amidst all of the trials we go through we are able to recognize the strength we are getting from them as a couple. I continue to be in awe of both of our parents. While they are both so different, they have supported us and helped us in anyway they can!

Well, here’s to my last post of the year. If 2010 can handle me…I’m sure I’ll get along with 2011 just fine.

And for good measure, here’s a photo I found on facebook from my cousin’s pictures. See, I told you I really am mexican!

Picture this

I’ve finally cleaned out my camera and realized it’d been a long time since I’ve posted any pictures. Here’s what we’ve been up to.

In late February we went to Kalahari for an overnight staycation with my family. It was so fun and exactly what we all needed.

I talked about the hair show I was going to the end of March. It was a blast! My friend Amber & I were only in Chicago for 48 hrs so we didn’t go anywhere but the show and our hotel – but it was so worth it! I got pretty close to Nick Arrojo and got to see Tabitha Coffey in person! I learned some cool new tricks got some great stuff and felt “renewed” as a new hairstylist. Oh let’s not forget to mention I met Jessica Simpson’s BFF and Hairstylilst Ken Paves – he was so sweet!

This April we stayed home for Easter and were lucky enough to have James’ parents come down! It was probably the quietest Easter I’ve ever had, since we’re usually surrounded by all of our family, but I really enjoyed it this year! I had fun dressing up our table. I know I’m always talking about how I’m not crafty and I don’t like to cook – I guess I should rephrase it that usually I just don’t have time. When we have company it always gets me excited!

And lastly that brings us to May…

My dear friend Celeste has put together a workout plan for me so I can finally get my butt in gear.

Oh and I bought some “magic” shoes….these will make my butt, abs, thighs look AMAZING just by wearing them (well, I think I’ll probably have to actually walk in them too)

A funny thing happened on the way to heaven

I wish I had fun things to share or cool pics to post.

I cannot believe it’s the end of April. What do I have to show for 2010 so far? I’ve gained all but 1 of the 10lbs I lost during my bootcamp. I am on my 3rd sinus infection that seriously won’t go away! I recently got a review from my salon boss that I am a “model employee” (I just really wish that would reflect on my paycheck!). We got to see our newest niece Eveyln Woolf be blessed at church, I love her cheeks!!!

We completely organized our basement and got rid of so much randomness it was such a stress reliever that we moved on to our closets and drawers! Oh the things I do to de-stress. I have also reclaimed my housekeeping duties. Not that our house was ever messy, but I had become a lazy housekeeper that included laundry shoved in the basement until I started wondering where all my clothes were…as we speak there is less than a load of laundry to do! I let the dishes sit in the dishwasher (clean) for a few days b/c we rarely ate together or at home really due to our schedules. I now make sure everything is put away the same day. I make our bed now AND use our fancy decorative pillows. We used to “fix” our bed right before we were about to go to sleepy land. I feel like my motivation is back, I like that! OCD here I come!

It’s been a year since our last miscarriage and 7 months from my appointment with the endocrinologist that basically told me (my interpretation of course)
DR: “I’m really sorry you don’t have insurance, but we do offer a discount – so after your discount it will be about
$2500 for all the testing we need to do on you, when should we start?”
ME: “I’ll get back to you on that”

June will be our 3 year mark on our journey to become parents. I cannot tell you the peace I’ve felt from my Heavenly Father that everything is going to workout. Faith without works is dead, right? Praying for strength is a daily occurrence! I will say, I amaze myself sometimes at how well I have calmed down about this subject. James is happy about it too! HA!

We have had over $800 in car repairs that have included a trip to Kmart at 8 a.m. so I could take the kids to the pool (please ask if you are unsure of what that entails) The hood anymore

I had a not so pleasant confrontation with a friend – I have to say I am proud of myself that I stood my ground and didn’t just shrug my shoulders about it. Although I am over it now and we are still friends.

I went to the dr. to get my sugars checked out (I have the beginning stages of type 2 diabetes) and considering I am supposed to go every year to make sure i’m A-OK…and I hadn’t gone for over 3 years I am happy to report things are good. Obviously my voluptuous stature was talked about. As usual I AM going to lose the weight and have started working out again and writing down what I eat.

I have added occasionally going dancing with friends to my list of social activities. If you know me, this is not uncommon. I love to shake my groove thang while people watch at the same time. It is funny.

So that’s what I’ve got to show for 2010 so far! Life is definitely “A funny thing happened on the way to heaven”

Links & Whatnots

Ok first, how is it the middle of March already? I fear I may be saying “Oh well there’s always next year” – in regards to new years resolutions…but I’m not giving up yet This will be a random post about wishes, happenings and life in my crazy head.

Another quarter is coming to an end for James (YES!) He’s downstairs studying CHEM as we speak. Don’t be surprised, but he didn’t ask me for help – go figure. He also just started working a few hours a week sort of like an internship HERE . He is still the most wonderful, paitent, loving, funniest man that I adore.

I am REALLY hoping my roomie from college and her fam end up back here in C-bus… Celeste are you listening??

In a few weeks myself and a few of my cos girls are going HERE to ooohhh and ahhh at the latest and greatest in the beauty industry. Best part? We will be taught by the best!

I have scrimped for a long time to be able to go to this for a few days! I am so excited!

My friend started a swank for less blog a super cute idea, where she sells her fabulous finds to others…I might consider doing that too….would you be interested in seeing what I got?

I am also wishing I could be as talented as another old roomie Jenn her skills are amazing (thanks Celeste for the idea of posting the link!) If you’re like (actually most of my readers are super crafty) me, she can even make something for you! Check her out!

I finally went to my first ZUMBA class and am addicted, I’ve only been once…but am contemplating going again soon!

I am starting to build up my clientele at the salon, I am seeing repeats and referrals! Slowly but surely my marketing efforts are working out! Woot Woot for guerrilla tactics!

I will be a Tia again, anyday now! My SIL Jamie is expecting #2 YAY for little girls!

James and I have been together for 4 years this month! If he only knew…..

I had a good laugh today on the phone with my BFF Kerrie – it’s the little things that make life awesome

I got a $3 refund today from a car wash..what can I say, I’m a sucker for a rebate! Every little bit helps!

I currently LOVE Groupon – you should totally sign up if you haven’t already, they send you deals in your area! Just today I got a pedicure for $9!!!

Ok, I may have overloaded you with links, but that is what’s happening in my crazy head!

Retail FAIL

So I have two rants to talk about. The first was a recent trip to Target.

I love me some target, but after my last visit left me disgruntled I will think twice about going there again. (I’m sure I’ll be there next weeK).

I received a 10% off coupon to use towards a total purchase. We bought maybe $12 worth of stuff, so $1.20 wasn’t that much off, but to me, it was enough! The young cashier scans the coupon and her computer makes this HUGE noise with a big red X on the screen. She says: “I”m sorry this isn’t valid.” And I rebuked, “Yes it is, it doesn’t expire until March 23rd and I haven’t used it yet.” So she flips on her “help me” light and a useless manager comes over and says “I”m sorry, all I can do is give you an 800# to find out why it won’t work.” I ask, “You can’t override for TEN percent? I just received this in the mail last Thursday.”

As I walked away with my purchase in hand (sadly it was stuff we needed.) I said audibly for the manager to hear “So much for customer service.”

Secondly, we haven’t had cable in over a year. It’s not because I think TV is a waste of time or anything like that, it’s simply for the $$ factor. That said we probably haven’t saved any money b/c we just end up renting a lot more movies b/c there’s never anything on the 3 channels we do get. However, we usually had coupons for free movies, or did Blockbuster’s .99 or 1.99 rentals. With that mind we went last night to rent two movies, one of which was supposed to be only $1.99. When the total came to $11 for two movies, we were like, “huh?”

I found this article to sum it up:

Beginning this week, the largest U.S. movie rental chain started charging $5 for five-day, instead of full-week, rentals.

If the customer is late returning a movie, a $1-a-day late fee is tacked on for up to 10 days. On the 15th day, the customer is charged for the DVD, which could be $4.99 if it’s a sale bin title or $29.99 for a new release Blu-ray.

If the late DVD is returned within the next 30 days, the customer gets a store credit for the price of the movie minus $10 in late fees. So if the late DVD was a $29.99 Blu-ray movie, the customer gets a $19.99 store credit.

“We think this is very forgiving. You have 45 days to bring it back. It’s similar to what Redbox does,” said Michelle Metzger, Blockbuster spokeswoman.

All I can say is Blockbuster is now a BUST.

And that my friends is what you’d call a Retail FAIL.

What do you need?

Ok, go to google, type in “{type your first name} needs” and write down the first 10 things that comes up. It’s funny…

Here’s what I need:

1. Stephanie needs help
2. Stephanie needs Facebook
3. Stephanie needs to pay attention
4. Stephanie needs to be in a family where there are no other children or animals
5. Stephanie needs a training bra
6. Stephanie needs to get her facts straight
7. Stephanie needs to listen to her heart!
8. Stephanie needs work
9. Stephanie needs career opportunities
10. Stephanie needs a new dress

Ok, so I didn’t post the first 10 b/c some of them were really weird….so what do you need?

Giveaways and I’m back!

Ok, so I didn’t take that long of a break…I guess I should let family know that James is doing ok (go, ahead Kerrie, “poor James”) – and other tidbits of our lives I guess aren’t that boring!

In other news, one of my BESTEST Friends from Ricks College is an amazing crafter and really, really almost makes me want to be crafty too…almost.

But, if you’re reading this and it’s still Monday before 9 p.m. PST

you could be entered in her giveaway!

http://makeitmyown.blogspot.com/

If not, check her out, she’s amazing and maybe will inspire you!