Simple Joys

A Lifestyle Blog

1.02.2013

Weigh-In Wednesday

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Two posts in one day! What a treat! I am linking up with Erin and Alex for Weigh-In Wednesday. I am a bit frustrated with my weight and the shape my body is currently in. I weigh as much as I did 9 months pregnant. That's pretty darn embarrassing! I am on a mission to lose 28 lbs by my 28th birthday, which is April 12. That's just 4 months away! I can do this! I have joined Mama Laughlin's Fit Camp group on Facebook. I love it and find all these women to be so encouraging! 

So here it is, my official Wednesday Weigh-In. I told you already how ridiculous this is. I am pretty ashamed of myself, but I know that in the coming weeks and months it WILL change. I have no choice. I am done feeling so tired and lazy all of the time. 


Yep, you read that right. My current weight is 188. I was 187 lbs 9 months pregnant. So now that I have shown you what a huge embarrassment this is, I plan to start shedding many of those pounds. I always joke and say that I need to lose a kindergartner. :) I just need to get down to at least the 160's by April. 

For the month of January Jason and I have made a decision to not eat out. I think this will help me to eat a lot healthier and be able to plan out our meals for each week. And grocery shopping should be a breeze. I'm kind of excited to not have to face all those terrible food options at restaurants and fast food joints. 

My biggest issue with losing weight is exercising. I am not always full of energy and ready to sweat like a pig. Those things don't appeal to me. I know they are crucial when losing weight and becoming healthy. I wish I enjoyed working out like so many women I know. I have set a personal goal to run, jog, walk, crawl 100 miles by the end of January. I think this is pretty reasonable and may help keep me motivated. 

I could always use more motivation, what are some things you do to help keep you motivated? 

10.03.2012

Fall into Fall Swap Reveal


Who doesn't love Fall? Its one of my favorite times of the year.Texas usually doesn't show signs of Fall until mid to late October and sometimes even early November, but this year we have been blessed with some amazing weather. All week there has been a perfect cool breeze. It might be safe to say there will be no more 100 degree temps. 

Anyway, one of my favorite things about blogging is all the fun activities different blogs host. Last Christmas I participated in an ornament exchange that was a lot of fun. So when I read on Neely's blog that she was one of the hosts for the "Fall into Fall Swap" I had to participate! We are all so busy and have technology at our fingertips 24/7 so it is always nice when you get to see the mail man! I mean who doesn't love getting "snail mail"? 

I got to partner up with Carissa over at T is for Townsend. We exchanged emails with a detailed Q&A session and browsed each other's blogs getting to know one another. Carissa did an excellent job on picking out my goodies. 



She wrapped everything individually, which made it so much fun opening up! 


The contents of my package! I love those cute towels! They added the added a little something that was missing from my kitchen. There was also a bad of candy corn pumpkins and I am guilty of opening them right away and consuming half the bag. (Don't judge!) 

Thank you Carissa for my Fall Into Fall Swap goodies! 

9.06.2012

It's Okay... I'm Alive!

Its Ok Thursdays

Its been a while, but I'm a busy busy mama these days. I am linking up with Neely and Amber today for IT'S OKAY THURSDAYS. Go check out all the fun blogs that are participating. 

It's Okay...

- To have sick child home on the second week of school. How did I not expect this so soon?!?!? Dear Virus, GO AWAY!

- That NO house work has gotten done this week due to sick child. 

- That the kids had school on Labor Day so mom and dad planned a date day! This never happens! It was awesome! 

- To be super excited about the Starbucks deal on Living Social but deeply disappointed you can only buy 1. One. Seriously people! 

- That once again I am blog back-logged. Is it just me or do you get completely overwhelmed by all the posts you have drafted, but unfinished? 

- To log everything I eat into My Fitness Pal, but nothing I am eating is healthy and I have been consistently over my calorie goal.

- To be stinkin' excited about football season and fall. Is it too early to start decorating? 

- It's definitely okay that the Dallas Cowboys pulled off a win last night. Now if they could show up the rest of the season...

- That next Friday is parent's night out at church and it can't get here fast enough. 

- That it has taken me over 4 hours to write this post because I am constantly being sidetracked. My brain is on overdrive and my body can't keep up! HELP. Please. 

What's OKAY with you today? 

7.29.2012

Sunday Social: Life/Work

Sunday Social



It's been a while since I linked up to the Sunday Social with Neely and Ashley. I am trying to get back into the blogging mode since I have taken such a long break. Bear with me! I have lots of posts to catch up on.

1. What is your dream job?
I pretty much have it. Staying home and raising my kids is all I ever wanted to do. I am so blessed and thankful I get to do just that. Being able to bring in income while doing so, would sweeten the deal. :)

2. If you had just won the lottery and didn't need to work for money, what would you do with your time?
I dream of the day I win the lottery! Who hasn't? My day to day life probably wouldn't change much. I might spend a little more time shopping, but that would probably get old quick. I would love to do more for others, so I would volunteer my time to work in the areas that are close to my heart and when I am not doing that I would travel and show my kids the world.

3. When you were a kid, what did you want to be when you grew up?
This is a pretty embarrassing question for me, but I will share for your entertainment. :) As a little girl my mom and sisters would tease me because I wanted to drive the ice cream truck. I had huge ambitions in life huh? Who wouldn't want to drive around blaring cheesy music while eating and selling ice cream? There is no way the ice cream guy/gal could spend that much time around ice cream without indulging in a little themselves! As I got older I wanted to be a teacher, go into business management, and be a mom!

4. What piece career advice would you give to someone just starting out in your field?
I'm a mom and so blessed that this is my "field". I would just say that there is no greater love than what you feel for your child. There really isn't enough advice to prepare you for this adventure. Each day is different which makes this job so much fun! Not all days are great, but we all have bad days and our kids aren't exempt from having them either.

5. Biggest Pet Peeves either in life or in blogging or at work?
-The way my towels are folded. Such a mom answer!
-People who text and drive! It's not that important to put your life nor mine and my families lives at risk!
-Hypochondriacs! OMG! Just because someone has an illness, does not mean you have it too!
-Rude and inconsiderate people.
-Walmart! I despise going there! Explain to me how you are so large and can only keep 2 checkout lanes open in the entire store?
-Bad Customer Service! I can't tell you how much it irks me to go somewhere and be treated like they are doing me this huge favor by waiting on me/ checking me out.

6. Biggest Fears?
Not to be a downer, but my number one biggest fear is losing one of my children. I never want to experience that kind of pain. My fear of heights is next. Its bad enough that I get sweaty palms, my heart races, my face loses its color and before I know it I'm in a full blown panic attack. I am terrified of heights, which is weird because I am a thrill seeker. I love roller coasters and enjoy zip lining! I even have sky diving on my bucket list! And not to forget June Bugs! Yes they scare me! Call me crazy! Really! Most people do. :)

Thanks for stopping by! Can't wait to catch up on my reading and check out your Sunday Social answers! Hope you had a great weekend and have a great week!

6.28.2012

It's Okay...

Its Ok Thursdays


Howdy! It's that time again, It's okay Thursday with Neely and Amber. Welcome to our little blog! I love reading your comments and always love new followers! :)

It's Okay...

-That we haven't left the house all week! Not only because Addyson has been sick, but because it's too dang hot to leave!

-To have no energy to do anything, yet we are moving this weekend and very little is packed. Sigh.

-That I don't get the crazy hype over Magic Mike. Don't get me wrong there are some hotties casted in this movie, like Matthew McConahottie! I am just not drooling over this movie like most women.

I am more excited about seeing People Like Us! I guess I'm just in more of a mood for a feel good movie than a sex hype movie.

-To have both Netflix and Hulu Plus, but can't decide which one to keep. They are cheap enough, I could keep both, but I am liking Netflix better so far. The navigation seems easiest. If you have any pointers I would love your feed back.

-That I am completely scatter-brained these days. What's new right! Haha!

-Lastly, It's okay to participate in as many link-ups as you wish! It's your blog, your masterpiece and you get to make it what you want!


Thankful For:

-My husband and children, they make my world turn each and every day!
-Our new home! 
-Each day I get to wake up! 

Hope you all have a happy Thursday and enjoy your weekend!

6.23.2012

Sunday Social: Music

Sunday Social



Hey guys! Thanks for stopping by our little blog for the third week of the Sunday Social Link-Up with Neely and Ashley!

I am a Texas native and am country through and through! So fore warning all my answers are country music based! I do love me some 80's Rock N' Roll though! ;)

What is your all-time favorite song?

I would have to say Neon Moon by Brooks & Dunn. There is nothing like listening to that song play in an old dance hall dancing a slow two-step with your man!

What is your favorite singer/band?

This is so hard! I will always have loyalty to my man George! That's George Strait if your not a big country fan. That man ages like fine wine! I also love Luke Bryan, Miranda Lambert, Blake Shelton, Gary Allen, Sara Evans, Reba, Clay Walker... the list goes on!

What is your theme song/song that best describes your life?

No doubt, Blue Clear Sky. This goes two ways; everything I have been through in my life has come out of the Blue Clear Sky, all the tragedy and even finding love again. I wasn't prepared to date or even fall in love again, it just happened, but I have this amazing man and family that I wouldn't trade for the world. :) Also, everything that comes out of my mouth comes out of no where! You never know what your going to get with me! Ha!

What songs put you in a good mood?

I love music! I don't need a tv for entertainment, just turn on the radio and I am easily put in a good mood!

What is your favorite road-trip music?

Anything up beat. I enjoy my 80's rock on the road, but compromise with my hubby with some Zac Brown.

What song are you embarrassed to admit you love?

I am not embarrassed by it, but my hubby is when I put on some of my 80's music. Jesse's Girl, Eye of the Tiger (Who's not in a good mood and ready to box after listening to that?) and Jungle Love get him everytime! I happen to LOVE them! :)

6.17.2012

Sunday Social: Movies

Sunday Social

Welcome! I am linking up with Ashley and Neely again for the Sunday Social. Hope you join us! 


Favorite movie of all time?

This is so hard for me to answer. I LOVE so many movies! If I had to pick and absolute favorite it would be Double Jeopardy. No matter how many times I watch it, it never gets old. My runner up movie is Something to Talk About. 

Favorite movie quote?

"Are you addressing me?... Well lick it, put a stamp on it and mail it to someone who give a shit!" I love that quote from Something to Talk About. Its how I feel a lot of times. 

Best movie to watch for a girls night in?

I would probably pick a comedy like Bridesmaids or something along those lines. Girls nights for me are usually full of lots of laughter and some adult beverages. 

Best breakup movie?

Umm... The Breakup? I don't know, I am past that point in my life. 

Favorite celeb eye candy?

Most definitely Matthew McConaugheyHEY! 

Which movie stars closet would you want to raid?

I am so far from being up with fashion. I honestly think that a lot of what people wear in Hollywood is unrealistic for an everyday mom. A lot of times I'm not even sure what they are wearing. I am usually a t-shirt and jean or yoga pants kind of girl. : )

6.14.2012

It's Okay

Its Ok Thursdays

Happy Thursday Folks! I hope you all have had a wonderful week. We're so close to the weekend! Yahoo!  I am linking up with Neely and Amber again for It's Okay Thursday!

It's Okay...

-We will be moving soon and I haven't packed a single box. I could use some motivation or someone to come do it for me. Any takers?

-That I have been so overwhelmed by picking paint colors for our house. There are way too many colors to choose from. Anyone that knows me, knows that I can't make a decision to save my life.


-To be addicted to having a coconut frapp every morning! I found the recipe on Pinterest and it is SO easy to make! I will share it soon!

-My sister sent me this photo, saying it reminded her of me. Ummm... It's true. I can't lie. There is no filter between my brain and mouth. : )


-To have a margarita with your tres leche. Chuy's has the BEST tres leche I have ever eaten! I could go for a piece now! Doesn't it look amazing?!?!?


As I always say... At the end of the day, everything is okay! What's okay with you this week? Be sure to link up at either Amber or Neely's. : )

6.10.2012

Sunday Social: Blog

Howdy! Thanks for stopping by At Home With The Galow's. I couldn't pass up on this new Sunday Social link-up party. You should join in if you haven't already.  


Sunday Social


 How did you come up with your blog name?

Well, we are the Galow's and this blog is about our family and home life so the name just stemmed from there. I would like to rename my blog, but can't think of one I love. So if you have any ideas, leave me a comment. You can read what I am looking for here

What is your favorite thing about blogging?

I enjoy blogging about my family and the happenings in our life. I plan on printing this blog for my kids to have a memory book. I also enjoy using this blog as an outlet for myself. 

What is one thing you have discovered because of blogging and now cant live without?

Definitely my Eric Condren Life Planner! I have told so many friends how much I love this planner. If you like to be organized and keep good records of your day, this is THE planner for you! It is worth every single penny and I will never own another type of planner! 

Facebook or Twitter? and why?

Twitter! I use to spend a lot of time on Facebook, but it has become full of titty babies and too much drama. Yes, I just said titty babies. Haha! Twitter just seems a bit more grown up and sophisticated. lol!

If one celeb read your blog who would you want it to be?

I would have to say The Pioneer Woman. I love her sarcastic humor and she has some pretty awesome recipes! 

What is something you want people to know about your blog?

This blog is just a hodgepodge of me and the happenings of my family. It's a constant work in progress. I love to see new followers, especially since I had to start my blog over recently. (Explanation here.) You can find out more about me and my family by clicking about me at the top of the page. 

6.07.2012

It's Okay

Its Ok Thursdays

It's that time of the week again! I am linking up with Amber and Neely for It's Okay Thursday! I hope your week has been a great one! 

It's okay...

-That I bought 10 yards of fabric for a few throw pillows and a set of curtains. In my defense, the fabric was on sale. :)

-To be super anxious to move into our new house! Eeeekk!!!

-That I have been letting my kids have ice cream for breakfast. Don't judge.

-That I thought I had a lot planned for my kids this summer and have done 3 activities so far only consuming a couple of hours each day.

-That it is summer and everything is okay during the summer!

What's okay with you?

5.31.2012

It's Okay

Its Ok Thursdays

Hello there! I am linking up with Neely and Amber again this week. Its been a crazy busy week, especially with today being the last day of school. Bring it on SUMMER! Bring it on!

Its Okay...

-That today is the last day of school! I officially have a 1st grader and a Kindergartner on my hands! (Addy's kindergarten graduation was adorable!)

-That it is raining today and we can't kick off the summer at the pool! (We will definitely be there tomorrow!)

-That I am planning to take a super long nap today.

-To be super excited for summer time! I LOVE summer! For the record, I have already been working on my tan and my skin is looking beautifully. I love chlorine and how it helps to clear my face up!

-That we are closing on our house tomorrow, but won't actually move until the end of July.

-To be craving a snow cone right now. If only banana-colada came with a little bit of malibu rum in it.

What's okay with you?

5.24.2012

It's Okay

Its Ok Thursdays


It's Okay...

-That I am way behind on blogging! I have at least 4 posts waiting to be finished and all I can get out are my "It's Okay Thursday" posts.

-To become the Queen of Back Blogging. There is never enough time for much these days. Except sleep, there is always time for sleep!

-It's okay that I call myself a "crazy person" multiple times a day and now my daughter has started referring to herself as a "crazy person". Is anyone really normal? I think not!

-That I just answered my own question above. Maybe I really am a "crazy person"!

-That my kids NEVER listen to me! I'm just not good at making them do things. Sometimes it's just easier to do it yourself than to have those meltdowns.

-To withhold information from your children and use it later to make them listen to you. (Yes I am one of those moms who bribe their children with anything so they will listen to me.) If your kids do as they are told all the time and always listen to you, you deserve a medal of honor!

-That on Tuesday I had a snow cone and the new Red Velvet Blue Bell ice cream within an hour. Must try the new red velvet! It is delish!

That everyday I tell myself "today you will eat good an exercise". Umm... I love to eat good food, just not the stuff that is healthy. Damn you calories; damn you!

-That last night I had a conversation with my sister about exercising with P90X and 5 minutes later decided it would be too hard and that I don't have enough life insurance coverage to start it. I hear it's brutal and will kill you!

At the end of the day, my world is still turning, so it's all okay! What's okay with you today?

5.17.2012

It's Okay

Its Ok Thursdays


It's Okay...

-That I am sad tonight is the season finale of Grey's Anatomy. Well, most shows really. Why can't they be year round?

-That my house is a mess and I have no motivation to clean it.

-That said house is a mess and I have family coming in for Addy's recital, Saturday. Hello family, welcome to my messy house!

-That I completely thought today was Wednesday and I am now in complete panic mode!

-That because of my forgetfulness, Addy has dance this afternoon which means I have to actually get dressed today. I just don't wanna!

-That I want to try "vlogging" but I am totally scared. Maybe its because of my strong country accent? Or that I hate the sound of my voice? I need courage!

-That we bought a carpet shampooer vac and that I am totally in love with it, but have no motivation to use it! (Jason did half of the living room last night and it works amazingly!)

-That this post in mainly about my laziness this week. Hey! Don't judge!

-That I am completely random with my posts, so if you read this blog, welcome to my crazy, all over the place, can't make a decision to save my life, life! :) (That being said in my most overly cheerful voice!)

5.10.2012

It's Okay

Its Ok Thursdays

Howdy! I am linking up with Amber and Neely again this week. Hope you have had a fabulous week and have a fabulous weekend!

It's Okay...


-That I am still in my pajamas and have no plans to get out of them today.

-That Addyson is home sick this week. Seriously, why didn't I expect this?

-Not to have a birthday party for Addyson this year. (Her birthday and dance recital are in two consecutive weekends, so we will celebrate with family after her dance recital.)

To have NO summer plans except for spending everyday possible at the pool. (Summer passes have been purchased!)

-That my butt muscles hurt from going up and down the stairs at my BIL & SIL's house just a hand full of times last Saturday. Its sad and am ashamed to admit it. :/

-To make a final decision while overriding my husbands previous decision without consulting with him.

-That I haven't exercised in weeks. Its been impossible with sick kids the last week, but the real reason is that the Texas humidity heat wave has hit and you sweat like a pig just getting the kids and yourself into the car.

-That it's damn near impossible for me to make a final decision. We are currently in the 10 day option period of buying a house and you all know how that ended last time...

-That I have finally decided what I want to be when I grow up! Yea me!! (More info on that later.)

5.03.2012

It's Okay!

Its Ok Thursdays

Happy Thursday! 

I have linked up with Amber and Neely before and am excited to do it again today. Its been a while since I have done a link-up. 

This weekend is crazy busy! So I will have some new stuff to post next week! :)

Its Okay...

-That Oscar was sick this week with a stomach bug. I enjoyed the extra snuggle time! :)

-That I have more things written down in my planner for this weekend than I have time for.

-That May is completely booked and we don't have a single weekend "free".

-That my house had been a complete disaster for the last week and a half because I have been too engrossed in the Fifty Shades of Grey Trilogy. I have finished and now feel like my life is over. :( But this trilogy needs a post of its own. 

-Its okay to stop trying to care for those who don't show they care for you.

-To be completely nervous about Addyson's dance recital. I am most worried about all the make-up. 

-Its okay that I poured a glass of orange juice this morning and looked at the Malibu Rum bottle and seriously  thought about it. 

-That I had to completely start my blog over and I have NO followers. :(