The Awesome Mom

Kung Fu Panda And The Legends Of Awesomeness To Be Release On Dvd/Estrenara En Dvd 6.18.13

2013-05-22T22:15:00.002-04:00

Brace yourself for awesome action and legendary laughs in this fun-filled animated TV series based on the Academy Award®-Nominated hit movie Kung Fu Panda! As the chosen Dragon Warrior and sworn protector of the Valley of Peace, Po the panda is highly skilled, ever vigilant and hungry for justice...and dumplings. Together with the Furious Five—Tigress, Monkey, Mantis, Crane and Viper—Po must fend off fierce villains, including an evil version of himself (courtesy of the Mystical Mirror of Yin and Yang) and the toothy Croc Bandits!

More than two hours of adventure including:

· Good Croc Bad Croc

· The Princess and the Po

· Chain Reaction

· Bad Po

· Jailhouse Panda

· Father Crime

· Po Fans Out

Croc Crackdown Game:

The adventure continues with the interactive online game, “Croc Crackdown!” Fans will play as Po in this fast-paced and addictive arcade-style game in order to protect the Noodle Shop from the evil crocs. Each DVD set comes with a unique code allowing fans to join the action, unlock power-ups and find exclusive downloads. Do you have what it takes to be the Dragon Warrior?

#DisneyPlanes #ArribaPlanes

2013-05-22T11:22:00.000-04:00

My kids flipped and flapped out when they saw the trailer to "Disney's Planes."

From above the world of “Cars” comes “Disney’s Planes,” an action-packed 3D animated comedy adventure featuring Dusty (voice of Dane Cook), a plane with dreams of competing as a high-flying air racer. But Dusty’s not exactly built for racing—and he happens to be afraid of heights. So he turns to a seasoned naval aviator who helps Dusty qualify to take on the defending champ of the race circuit. Dusty’s courage is put to the ultimate test as he aims to reach heights he never dreamed possible, giving a spellbound world the inspiration to soar. “Disney’s Planes” takes off in theaters on Aug. 9, 2013.

For more information, check out Disney.com/Planes, like us on Facebook: facebook.com/DisneyPlanes and follow us on Twitter: twitter.com/DisneyPictures.

We are definitely looking forward to see this movie for Little Al's birthday.

I was not compensated for this blog post.

Brooklyn Half 2013

2013-05-20T22:27:00.000-04:00

The day arrived. The day where Amy had to run the Brooklyn Half.

I set my alarm to 4am. I planned on heading down to Brooklyn with Alnardo. I pulled myself out of the bed to find that he had been texting me saying that he was on his way to me. I was NOT ready. I threw EVERYTHING in a bag, put my clothes on and flew out of the door. If I didn't leave with him I would be at the mercy of the MTA gods. There's a history of that not going too well. Seriously.

I was very happy that I didn't get left behind. Because I rushed out of the apartment I had to put my tape on on the run and half asleep. I surprisingly did a great job especially since I was doing it in a moving car.

Alnardo had planned on parking near the finish line so that he and his family wouldn't have to travel back to the start when the race was over. It turns out that I wasn't the only one that was half asleep. Alnardo ended up missing the exit to get on the Belt Parkway before the Verrazano Bridge. We had the pleasure of crossing the Verrazano Bridge and seeing the sunrise over Brooklyn. It was breath taking.

When we got to Coney Island I noticed that my shoe laces were day-glow.

We quickly walked to the Q and found a plantform full of runners. I didn't take a picture. I should have.
We boarded the train and got to Eastern Parkway faster then thought we would. It's great to have a friend to go on these adventures with.

As we got to the corrals, we got to smell the wonderful smells of the port-a-potties lining the corrals. That was so gross!!! Alnardo was in the a corral with a lower number. He was kind enough to walk over to my corral with me. He is a great race buddy.

We waited for Alnardo's friend Sheldon. Eventually he showed up. He was very nervous. Alnardo was nervous too but he was amped that the same time. He was bouncing round. This made Sheldon antsy. I swear he was going to punch him.

Our start time was 7:35am but we didn't cross the start line until about 8am. My allergies was making it difficult to breathe. I was trying so hard to get pass it but I didn't want to pass out.

The guys run along side of me for the first three miles. They coached and cheered me on the whole time. I didn't want them to pace as slow as me the whole time. I told them to on without me once we made it to the third mile and I'll see them at the finish line.

Because of the guys I was able to keep a 13:25 pace for the first 5K. That set the tone for the next ten miles. Before the guys pulled away from me, Alnardo told me to stuck with the lady in the purple shirt. She was internal running and she was pacing like me. I took it to heart.

Before entering the park and lovely Caribbean lady was walking the path and cheering everyone that passed her. She wasn't apart of the race. She was there to show her support for Brooklyn. Her passionate cheering brought tears to my eyes.

As I turned into the park I noticed that my MapMyRun app was not working probably. The pull in data use at the start jacked me up. It didn't track two of the miles I ran already. My pacing was off track and felt a little lost. The app was still talking to me every five minutes but it was terrible.

When I reached the mile four mark I touched the sign. This is going to be my motivation. I touched the sign at 51 minutes. That was quicker then my 4 mile race the week before. After that Prospect Park was a blur. I took no pictures in the park.

At about the 5.5 mile mark the "last" runner approached me. When he said that I ran away from him. I didn't want to be near him. I ran as fast as my body would let me. When I reached the 6 mile maker I reached for the sign. The sign was higher then the rest of the signs. I had to jump to touch it. The last runner cheered me on when I touched it. I slowed down and ran by his side. He asked me how did it feel to jump. I said "Awesome!" of course. We paced together for a short while and I started to drift back. I was a little worry. I didn't know what to except when I left the park. Was I going to be pick up and brought to the start? I just kept going.

When I exited the park the beautiful marshell standing there told me to keep going. I wasn't going to be pick up. That gave me a little boost to run down the ramp to Ocean Parkway. While going up and down the ramp I started to get a terrible pain in my right big toe. I just knew that I broke the toe nail. It was a familiar feeling from the Manhattan Half. I just kept going.

As I kept going I was on the look out for purple shirt runner. I did not see her. I lost the person I was suppose to pace with. As I reached up and touched mile marker sign 8 I hear someone laughing behind me. I turned around and it was....

It was purple shirt Black Girls Run runner. We paced back and fourth between mile maker 8 and 9. She passed me around 8.7 miles. At that point my big toe was screaming at me to stop. The pain was radiating up my foot to my ankle. At one point I stopped and looked down at my sneakers. There was no blood bleeding out of my shoe. Tears started to flow down my face. I wanted to stop. I saw the medical tent right next to mile marker 9. I convinced myself that I needed to touch the sign and give up. Those worker in the tent were cheering. I wiped the tears away and touched the sign. I didn't walk towards the tent. I kept going. I caught up and passed purple shirt runner.

At around 9.5 miles I saw a familiar person. It was the Caribbean lady that I saw before I entered the park. I told her that I remembered her from earlier in the race. She went on to say that this was a great I was doing. She asked me what I was going to do when I got home later. I told her that I was going to give my kids the biggest hug ever. She said that I am setting a great for my children. She cheered me on as I picked up speed to touch mile marker 10.

Only 5k to go!!!

I started to see that purple shirt runner pull back. I could still hear her interval running beeping. I knew she was ok.

When we arrived to Bensonhurst purple shirt runner and I were approached by "cheering" little Jewish boys. I don't know what they said to purple shirt runner but they were trying to get me to run faster. I heard one of the boys say quietly, "That ass." Really? I turned off my mommy sensor. I really wanted to turn around and correct him. I wasn't out there for that. I kept going. Then I heard, "I give you a dollar if you touch her butt." I laughed it off. Those little boys have great taste. lol

In a flash I saw...

That meant I have only 0.7 miles to go!!! You could hear the loud cheering in the distance. Purple skirt runner was having a hard time running. She was have terrible thigh cramps. I could have gone off without her but I wanted to stick by her side. We climbed the ramp together. When we reached the boardwalk I ran as fast as my body would let me. I saw Levonda on the side line. I gave her a high five. I headed to the finish line. I heard the MC was cheering my name for everyone to hear.

Once I made it I waited for purple skirt runner just to hear the MC cheer her on too. I waited to high five Jackie as she crossed the finish line. She joined her follow Black Girls Run members and I kept walking down the boardwalk to get my medal. As I approached the medal volunteers I saw my supervisor when I was a medal volunteer that the NYC Half. I told the girl that was in the front of the medals line to give my medal to him. I want him to give me my medal. I reminded him who I was and he remembered me because we stomped on my name tag together at the NYC Half. He proudly gave me my medal and gave me a giant hug. He told me he was proud of me.

As I walked away from him, a rush of emotions overcame me. I bursted into tears. I did it! I finished what I trained so hard for. I pushed myself over the last four month. I made training for this half my third job. I stopped crying for just a moment to take my finisher picture.

I walked around to find someone I knew. I walked around slowly because I am terrible at picking people out of a crowd. I found Alnardo and Sheldon limbing away from the boardwalk. It was so awesome to see them. They were so happy that I finished. After playing some phone tag I found Levonda. It was so awesome to be spend time with my BBB.

This experience has definity made me a stronger person. I overcame my self doubt. I focused on my goal and completed the task. I didn't come in at the time that I set for myself but I was VERY close.

Here's my half marathon break down:

5K- Time: 0:41:41 Pace:13:24

10K - Time: 1:27:52 Pace: 14:09

15K - Time: 2:16:08 Pace: 14:36

20K - Time: 3:04:11 Pace: 14:49

Finish - Time: 3:14:29 Pace: 14:51

My pace for my first half was 15:47. I reduced my pace by 56 seconds and overall time by 21 minutes! Amazing!

I can't wait for my next half.

2 Days Away....

2013-05-16T14:37:00.000-04:00

Why does my feet hurt?

My heels spurs are bugging me.

During Salsa my knee started to hurt.

Am I getting a cold?

Can I really do this?

When I ran the Manhattan Half in January I was not prepared. I didn't do enough of the right training. After learning my lesson the hard way, I have prepared myself for this half. 13 weeks of training. 13 weeks of running at least three times a week.

I want finish. I want to get my bling.

My Bestie and BBB are going to be at the finish line waiting for me. I can't wait to see them and give them both smelly, sweaty hugs. I know I am going to cry.

I am so nervous.

I want Saturday to get here.

Japan Day

2013-05-13T20:17:00.000-04:00

Mother's Day weekend was great. I celebrated with a family run. Months ago I had decided that I want the kids to run a Kids' Race. My tweenager, Big Bea, was on the fence about doing it because she is all about books and the arts instead of sports or getting sweaty. I let her think about it and she decided that she wanted to run with Big and Little Al. Unfortunately, she got sick this weekend and could not make it.

We all usually pack into the car and head down to NYRR HQ the Friday before a race to pick up my bib. Because she was feeling under the weather she stood home with Daddy and Little Al while I travelled to get the family bibs with Big Al. Oh man was he excited. He loves one on one time with Mommy. We traveled down and we had many conversation the whole way down there. When we go in the car the kids never go in with me. They outside with Daddy and I quickly run in and out. Going in was an amazing experience for him. See all the people rushing around up and down. He was excited when it was his turn to get his bib. He really didn't understand what the bib was for but he loved it anyway. He got his tee-shirt and counted out 12 safety pins for him and his sisters. A few people were annoyed that we were going "slow." Screw them we were having our moment. The tee-shirt guy was kind enough to take our picture.

He totally get his smile from me.

The game plan for the family race was Daddy was going to take the kids down to Central Park before the Kids' Race and I was going to head out two hours before them for my race. In order for that to happen I had to:

1-Getting EVERYTHING ready for myself and the kids Saturday night

2-Made sure that all of Daddy's questions were answered

3-Deliver sick Big Bea to her grandmother

4-Pray that it all goes well without me there

All the excitement and worried left me sleepless. I only got 3 hours worth of sleep. I knew that this was going to affect my pace. My goal was to set a 12:45 pace. After studying my splits for the last three races, I noticed that my first two miles I can pull a 12:30 pace without a problem. On my third mile I slow down. The hills on this part of the course aide with the slower pace. I have only notice that this happens on my training runs. I tried to keep my motivation going by writing my goal on my arm. The words were almost all gone by the time I got to the corrals.

I had everything ready for myself and the kids in record time. I was proud of myself. I usually wait until before bedtime to get ready and end up pushing back my bedtime because I take too long. I am really getting good at prepping my kinesiology tape. I cut my tape the day before which is a big morning time saver. I was able to get my taping time down to 5 minutes.

Look at those sexy legs....nah just look at the tape. I tape for Plantar Fasclities, Heels Spurs, Iliotibial Band Syndrome (ITBS) and Knee Support. My husband calls me a poorly wrap Christmas present. This tape job is a 100 times better than my first job.

Dear Left Foot,

I love that I don't have to tape you. Keep up the good work.

Love, The Awesome Mom

I thought I wasn't have to make it down to Central Park early thanks to the MTA gods I made it in time. Before the race started it started to rain on and off. This led me to debate if I should run with my hoodie. When I got to the baggage area I decided to leave it. It's better to be cold than hot.

I quickly met with my race buddy, Alnardo and his peeps.

He really wanted it to rain. He wanted to run in the rain at Saturday's 10k. The sun came out just for him. (at both races) He had to take his rain gear off and wrap it around his waist.

I was ready to go. I kept reminding myself that I couldn't slow down after I saw the 3rd mile maker. I was pacing very will the first 10 minutes. A lady in heather gray and purple was pacing back and fourth with me. Then some where around the 1.5 mark (I think) my racing buddy, Alexie found me. He started to pace with me. That was great. He is a little faster then me but he was right there with me. We walked and jogged at the same pace for the rest of the race. We didn't talk much because I was using all my energy to run. Nonetheless, it was still great running with someone instead of by myself.

When I got to the third mile maker I had no idea what my pace was. My headphones cut out. I can't hear my stats. Of course I slowed down because of all those darn hills. Alexie and I have some great photos of us taken by the course photographers.

When the race was done I quickly went to baggage and started my search for my Bestie and my husband with the kids. Before I found them I found him.

I don't know his name but he runs ALL of the NYRR races. I even gave him his medal at the NYC Half. I want to be like him when I grow up. We had a quick chat. I asked him if he remembered me giving him his medal and he entertained me and he said yes. I can't wait to see him at the Brooklyn Half.

I head to the kids area and found my Bestie first. I am terrible at picking people out of a crowd. Like I've said many times I can only pick my kids out of a crowd. I found my husband because I spotted Little Al first. I saw her hair ties.

We split up into the age "corrals." Myself and Little Al and Daddy, Bestie and Big Al. The little guys and gals in Little Al's age group run with their parent. I ran right along with her. It was so exciting to see her run. I didn't have to drag her. She saw all the other girls running and she did the same.

We collected her ribbon and ran to get a stop to watch Big Al run. We got a great spot and Bestie got some great shots. lol

When I looked up I saw that Big Al was having an overwhelming moment. Daddy wiped away the tears and he looked focused. Then they were off!!!

Big Al was not the fastest and he didn't care. He ran! He ran just like the other boys his age. He was happy. I am so proud that he was out there. GO BIG AL GO!! I was not nervous that he was going to be lost in the crowd of little people. I taught him to stay in one place if you can not find Mommy or Daddy. Remind him of last before and after ballet class. When he got his ribbon he looked up and didn't see anything he knew. He stood right there until I got to him.

I didn't reach the goal that I set for myself but my time was awesome anyway. I paced at 13:30. That was the pace goal that I set for my last 4 mile race.

We came home and relaxed the rest of the day. I am so proud that my kids were able to handle the crowd and the excitement. Their ribbons mean a lot more then just completing a race. It represents that my kids can do anything. Autism or Sensory Integration Disorder is not going to hold them back....I am not going to either.

This was a great Mother's Day.

The Brooklyn Half is almost here!

2013-05-12T19:39:00.002-04:00

Only 6 days until the Brooklyn Half.

I am can see my goal. I am feel my goal. I am feel the course. I am listening to my body. I hear that is it really for the 13.1 miles.

Here's the plan:

Miles: 1 - 6.2 (10K)

Pace: 13:08 minutes per mile Time: 1 hour 21minutes

Miles 6.3-12.4 (10K)

Pace: 13:30 minutes per mile Time: 1 hour 23 minutes

Miles 12.4 - 13.1

JUST RUN!

Total time: + 2 hour and 45 minutes

I figure I would make it over the finish line in about 3 hours.

I plan on carrying my hydration belt with 10oz of Gatorate and 10oz of Water.

Let's do this!

Maybe She Is Not Ready To Be In The Big Show

2013-05-07T09:26:00.001-04:00

Everything I drop Little Al off to Creative Moment I always ask myself, "Is she ready to handle the big show?" A lot happens during the big show. There is a lot of waiting for your time to shine. There is a lot of girls and boys back stage. There is tons of excitement. More waiting to get on stage for your number. Loud music, bright lights, flashing lights and cheering from the crowd. Big Bea and Big Al were both able to handle their time in the spotlight. Will Little Al follow suit?

A few weeks back I asked her dance teacher if she was able to do it. She said yes. Little Al needs a strong led and she will do it. A huge weight was lifted off my shoulders when she said that.

During day to day play time Big Bea is her strong led. She is able to follow along without a problem...well very little problem.

Mom needs to stop worrying...

She is going to do fine.

TD Five Boro Bike Tour 2013

2013-05-06T21:57:00.000-04:00

I am pleased to announce that I successful completed the TD Five Boro Bike Tour for the 2nd time. OH YEAH!!!

I am so happy that I have another Five Boro under my belt. This year I wasn't as nervous as last year. I know what was coming and I wasn't afraid of anything. The only thing that worried me was the bag restrictions due to the events that happened at the Boston Marathon. I was all ready to go with my Basil Saddlebags when I got the email stating that it wasn't allowed. I made a Target run the night before and got a tiny handlebar bag and water bottle cage.

For the third Sunday in a row I woke up at 5am. It seemed easier this week. I guess my body is getting used to getting up that early on my day off. I get dressed very quickly and headed out the door with Lenny in less than 10 minutes I was at the closest train station.

Not too long after being at the station another tour rider bumped into. It was nice to bump into something in the Bronx going to the event as me. I usually ride alone. The gentleman I bumped into was Rueben. (Hi, Rueben!)He was apart of the entertainment and marketing of the tour. He was nervous about getting dressed up for this event and especially nervous that he was going to be late. I thought it was awesome that he was spreading joy dress up like a bunny. ;-) Rueben left the train before I did. He figured that he can mash down to where he needed to be faster than the train.

I made it down to the start line just about 7:25-ish. I was very happy to be apart of the first wave. I didn't have to worry too much about bottle-necking and traffic stops. You could really feel the energy of the crowd as the time got closer to start time.

Of course as soon as I found a nice spot to wait I was on the look out for Sheryl. I didn't find her but I was determined to search for her in the crowd as we began to move. I think Sheryl is the only non family member that I can pick out of a crowd. Plus its easy to find her since she is riding a pink Hello Kitty. (AWESOME!)

As we started to roll I wasn't nervous to ride close to other rider like I use to be. I wasn't wobbly. Once I got passed the start I high tailed uptown. I was able to keep my speed between 12 & 15 mph. It was an awesome feeling to know that I was able to do this. I made it the top of Manhattan in 25 minutes! YAY!

Just before I got to the Third Avenue, I noticed something pink at the corner of my eye. It was Sheryl! It rode passed me. There was about 10 people in between us so I know she didn't see me. I felt like I was playing a cat and mouse game. Chasing Sheryl into the Bronx. As soon as we reached the Bronx rolled right up to her. It was funny because she said when she thinks of the Bronx she thinks of me. We pulled over to the Bronx water stop and chatted for a little bit. We were freezing. I hurried off because I didn't want the crowds to start building up. She stood behind for water.

I kept Lenny going and didn't take my official break until the FDR rest stop. There I refilled my water, grabbed a banana and a bagel and kept it going.

The next thing I knew I was at the Queensboro Bridge. I knew I wasn't going to be able to do the incline. I was hoping that I could. I tried my best but my knee wouldn't let me.

Once over the bridge the next rest stop seemed to come quickly. Every rider was force to go to the Astoria rest stop. Security was very tight. I grabbed a sip of water and kept going.

The miles seem to go by quickly because I felt I got to the Con Ed rest stop super fast. I grabbed a Red Bull and found a good spot to take another picture of Lenny. As I was getting ready to take a shot someone from behind said that I had an awesome bike. I turned around to find Dan. (Hi Danny.) It turns out that we are Facebook friends. I didn't recognize him. This was a funny way to real life met. Good job Danny. Dan does Social Cycling NYC every Thursday. I said hello to his peeps and I went on my way.

When we were heading to Brooklyn Danny and his peeps were cheering me on. That was very awesome! Thanks guys.

The ride to Brooklyn Bridge Park was an easy one. It's an awesome feeling to think that any part of this tour was easy.

I didn't stay too long hard either. Time to get moving to Staten Island! Staten Island was 9 miles away. Those 9 miles were very long. I stopped for a moment to relax my legs and feet. I noticed that I better at listening to my body. I am able to stop, rest and not push my body to a point where I am potentially injury myself.

I knew there was a rest stop waiting for me right before the Verrazano Bridge. I stopped near the rest stop. I didn't actually go into it because it looked like there was a lot of people there. I kind of pulled off to the side to shake off some pain I was feeling in my knees. I was complimented on my bike again and when I looked up I saw Dame aka @damerous from Instagram. (Hi, Dame) I did not recognize him at first but it click after chatting for a little bit. He was going faster than his group and he was waiting for them to catch up.

Not it was game time....Verrazano Bridge time! I wanted to.....I really really wanted to ride the incline. My knee did not want any part of that incline. So this Awesome Mom walked the incline. Yes I did. As I walked good old Lenny I heard my name. I had no idea who was cheering me one. She went right back me and kept it moving. Whom ever she was she was rocking and rolling up that inclined. It turns out that it was @B3lla87 from Instagram. (Hi, Bella!) She is @damerous's girlfriend. We didn't take a picture together but it was great having a drive by meeting.

I walked the inclined as fast as I could. I wanted to finish. BOOM POW! Finished!

I didn't stay long at the festival especially not after last year's three hour wait to get off of Staten Island.

I felt a little sea sick on the Ferry. I was just so happy to be on my way home. I took a nap during the Ferry to prevent any vomiting. It really did the trick. When we got on dry land you don't know how excited I was to see a sign with my favorite location on it....The Bronx.

By the time I made it home I biked 43.3 miles over 5hr hours.

This bike tour was hands down the best yet. I can't wait to do the next one.

Run As One

2013-05-02T23:00:00.001-04:00

Today's race kind of creeped up on me. I've been so busy and stress at work I couldn't "see" this race. I wasn't hyped. I was still kind of disappointed of my pace from last week's race. I didn't want to be "late" to this race again. All the rushing and the worrying before the race takes away from my focus.

I got myself ready to the day before just like I always did except I cut all the tape that I needed for the race. I noticed that the tape cutting in the morning was not working out for me. I needed the tape cutting out of the way. I could have taped up that night but I can't sleep well with all that tape on my legs. So the taping has to be left for the morning. (I will dedicate a post on what is it that I am actually taping.)

While cutting the tape I set a pacing goal for myself. My goal was to do a 13:30 minute per mile pace. My best race pace was 13:35. This was at my first race. I need to shave some time off my pace. I have done a lot of training and I needed to make this happen.

I set my alarm to 5am. If someone would have told myself six or seven years ago I would be waking up at 5am to go to a race on a Sunday, I would have laughed in their face. I've been doing these Sunday races for just a few months and it's been difficult to get up each and every time. This Sunday I managed to peel myself out of the bed without hitting the snooze. I stumbled into the living room, grabbed my race day pile on the sofa and headed to the bathroom with one eye open. I successfully taped and geared up by 5:45am.

I was still very sleepy when I was done but I did not stop. I knew if I sat on my sofa I was going to fall back to sleep and I would be late. I avoided my sofa at all cost! I successfully left my apartment at 6:05am. I walked to the closet train station. I was not depending on a bus to get me there. I got to the station at 6:40am. I whole 20 mins sooner than I did the weekend before.

The MTA Gods were on my side. The train that I had to take was running express in the Bronx. I love it when things go my way. I made it to Central Park at 7:35am. This made me very happy. That meant no rushing, no running like a chicken and no craziness.

I got to my corral and met up with my race buddy, Al. The corral was empty. It stay empty for a while and sudden it started to get full and we were pushed up to the 7,000's corral. I was happy about that. That mean I would be running with a crowd and not "by myself."

As the corrals started to move across the start line I spotted Sheryl. I am happy I spotted her I would have never caught up to her once she started her pace. I think we have our picture pose down pack. (Looks familiar? Manhattan Half)

Photo taken by Sheryl Yvette

Once Al and I hit the starting line we were off. I was able to stick with him at his pace for about 0.5 miles. When we hit the first slight hill on the course I started to draft back and he went off a head of me. I was happy that I was able to keep up with him even if it was for just a short distance.

As I slowed down I keep telling myself that I needed to have a 13:30. I programmed my MapMyRun app to tell me my distance, current pace and splits pace every five minutes. I was doing great at each alert for the first two miles. During the third mile my pace slowed down. As soon as I hear that my pace was slower than my goal I picked up the pace. I wasn't feeling any pains on my body. Which was AWESOME!

I felt very strong crossing the finish line! When I stopped and save my app it recorded my pace to be 12:53. I knew this was off because I started and ended my app before the start and after the finish. I didn't think that I ran that fast anyway. I always wait for NYRR to post the results before I get excited.

I met up with my race buddy and met a few new friends. Al and I took a week-niversary picture of our running friendship. (His words not mine.)

We stood around for the raffle. There I saw Alexie, around race budding. We waited for the raffle to be drawn and parted ways.

I like to wait until 10:30am to check if NYRR posted the results of the race. It just so happens that I was in the train station at that time. I check the website....the results were up....I scroll over to my pace and see 13:08!!!!!! I start laughed and jumping on the train platform like a crazy person. No only to I make my goal (in the words of Sheryl) I SLAUGHTERED my goal! I achieved my personal record!

I am so proud of myself. I still can't believe that I did it. All the training and dragging myself to the gym when I was tired paid off. This has made me mentally prepared for the Brooklyn Half. LET'S DO THIS!

Run for the Parks

2013-04-22T22:54:00.000-04:00

Sunday's race was the first NYRR race since the Boston Marathon. The days leading up to the race it felt like I got 100 e-mails from NYRR about the major changes with baggage and course securities. I wasn't worried about the changes. I knew that I just needed to get my bunz to Central Park as early as possible. I was more concern about my health then any thing else.

For the last two weeks I have been VERY stressed out at work. So much stressed that it has effect my health. The stress brought on side effects of my anemia. I have had documented iron deficiency anemia since I was about 12. The on set of my menstrual cycle was the cause of the noticeable change in iron levels. My anemia has also been linked to the lead-poisoning which happened when I was a about two years old. The stress and the cycle pushed my anemia to the limit. I was very weak the weekend prior to the race. I was dizzy and cold, not a good sign at all. I was able to sleep it off along with some vitmans. As the week continued my stress did not go away. (Thank you NYS testing!)

The night before the race I was restless. I only got about four hours sleep. I wasn't nervous or worried about the race I was just up. The stress from work just kept floating around in my brain. Of course because I didn't get enough sleep....I over slept. I got up 30 minutes later than what I was suppose to in order to adjust to the NYRR changes. This wasn't going to be good I tell ya.

I rashed the best way that I could but you can't rush taping up body parts. It comes out all wrong if you rush. I got out of the door at 6:45am. I didn't to be out the door at 6:25am. I was in the downtown 2 train at 7am. My IG running buddy, Alnardo was kiking me to hurry up and get down to the park at 7:15am. I was still in the Bronx! OH NO!

When I got to the park I had no idea where anything was. Everything was moved around for security and traffic control. I was running around like a chicken with no head! I missed the moment of silent for Boston and the national anthem. I hear the gun go off of the elite runners yet again. This was not good. Why did I do this to myself AGAIN?! I made it to my corral..which is the end of course. I did my best to focus on the task a head of me. 4 miles.

My first goal for this race was to run the first 2-miles without walking. After which I could walk for two minutes and run the rest. Nice plan huh? Too bad my body didn't want to go along with the plan. My ankle was singing to me the moment I picked up speed. My stomach started to become upset at about 2.5 miles. I kept slowing down and walking. Right when I hit the three mile mark I hit a great big wall! All these thoughts of giving up and quitting running all together rushed through my mind. I convinced myself, at that very moment, that I could not an will not do the Brooklyn Half.

I had to shake off that feeling. I focused back on my surrounding and the people running around me. Then I saw her. A runner that I have seen in the last three races. I call her Mrs. Puffy Pants. She is a heavy set women that wears black running shorts with biking shorts under. The wind makes her running short puff up. I found her again....and I had to pass her and beat her to the finish line. I think she is very awesome. She kicks all the races in the bunz. If I see her at the next race I am going to stop her and tell her how awesome she really is. I passed her and I kept going.

I finally heard the MC at the finish line. I knew I was close. I had my eyes on the fences to the finish line. The two ladies that were ahead of me jetted to the finish line. Their energy and excitement transferred on to me. I kicked it into high gears and made a run for that finish line. I can't wait to see the professional pictures of that finish. I bet it's going to be awesome.

I found a few people at the finish line. I found:

Alnardo, IG followers and New Running Buddy

Angela, Easter Seals Bronx CDC Director

I also found someone I met at the NYC Half, we didn't take a picture. Next time we will.

Because of the wall I hit at mile three my pace of the race was a 14:01. I am not happy with that. I will fix that for the next race.

You Have A Long Life Ahead Of You..

2013-04-20T07:42:00.000-04:00

An interaction I had with Little A's dance teacher a few days ago keeps rolling around in my head.

Her dance teacher is really trying to connect with her she asked me how do I get her out of her little happy world and get her to play along. She physically takes her in to play. (She is not hurting her course.) I told her that I do the same at home to get her to do anything. She is nervous about getting her to play along on stage during the big show.

Our conversation continued...

She had mention something along the lines of being healthy because I have a long life ahead of me. This conversation did not offend me one bit.

Our dreams as parents (most parents) is our children are more successful then we are. We want the best for our children. I realized many moons ago that Little Al will have a difficult life ahead of her. She will not understand a lot that happens in her world. There are things out there I can not protect from teacher.

When you look in on Little's Al's Creative Moment class you see that she is different. she not physically different. She is not the tallest girl. She is socially different. She shows no interest in having a friend or partner in class. Every one kind of partnered or has a trio of friends. She is the lone girl. Playing by herself and making faces at the mirror. No one knows what she is thinking. Everyone see that she enjoying herself, in her little world. Her little world, her bubble, is a pleasant one. I don't want to bubble to a bad place for to be in. Pulling her out of that bubble usually causes her to be upset. This is necessary so that she can experience new things and learn. When I pull her out I want those experience to be memorable. Even if I am just teaching her to zip up her coat or putting her shoe on the right foot.

Everyday I wish that the switch in her brain would just turn on. Until that happens (if it happens) I will do my best to be by her side. I will guide her to the happiness big and small. I will guide her during the ups and downs.

Yes I have a long life ahead of me....nothing that I am not ready for.

Run. Pray. Run.

2013-04-15T20:28:00.003-04:00

This morning start just like any other day for me in the Bronx. I checked my social media feeds to check up on my favorite bloggers and Instagramers. I was so excited for Dani, blogger of Weight Off My Shoulders, was set to run the Boston Marathon. I wished her well on IG. My day way on as normal.

When I got and check on my social media feeds again I saw this: "Pls tell me that ur not in Boston today" My old childhood friend posted that to my last IG picture.

I had no idea what was going now. I replied with a silly answer. "lol...No I am not in Boston...lol" I checked the new right away because it seemed odd that she would send me a message like that.

I changed the TV immediately to NY1. I immediately dropped onto my sofa in shock. I couldn't think for a moment.

I thought about my experience during the NYC Half. Finishing a long distance race is a mentally and physically demanding task. I shared in the happiness and joy while giving amazing runners their medals. I saw blood, sweat and tears while standing at the finish line. I did not feel that I was standing in cold, in the shade for hours. I felt happiness.

All of that was taken away from those runners. The happiness was replaced with fear.

I still don't know what "why." Why would anyone do this? Who would do this?

After getting passed the shock I social network stalked Dani. She had already crossed the finish when the explosion happened. Thank god.

Soon after I got a rush of text, comments and messages. Many of my friends, family and followers had me in their thought when they heard of the news. I am humbled and honor that so many people thought about me. I am honored that many thought I am awesome enough to run the Boston Marathon.

After social media overdrive I determine that I need a break of the images.

I have had enough.

I have to look away but Boston is still in my heart and in my shoes.

I took it in and I am going to let it out during my next NYRR race Run for Parks.

Pray for Boston.

Week 92

2013-04-08T22:09:00.000-04:00

Yesterday, I wake up and I was magically a size 14!!! So awesome!

Over the last couple of month every time I buy a new outfit or piece of clothing I bought it in a size 16 and then I would pick up something cute in a size 14. I have been slowly building my size 14 wardrobe. Something told me yesterday to go a head and try the last pair of jeans that I picked up. BOOM! POW! The fit with no fighting.

What did I do next? I took picture of course. Then I did a before and current picture.

Amazing! I look at that before picture of me and I can't even recognize that person. That picture was taken a few weeks before I actually became serious about Weight Watchers and fitness.

I created another side by side with another picture I found on my Facebook profile picture album.

The before picture was taken after losing 10lbs with Weight Watchers. I can't wait tell that I lost anything but I did. I am happy I didn't stop at just those 10lbs. It trying me a long time to drop all this weight but I am find with that. I am living life and I know better now.

Numbers and Goals Weight:
Start weight: 268.5 lbs BMI 40.3 kg/m^2
This week's weight is: 226.2 lbs BMI 34.5 kg/m^2
Change since last week:  -0.8 lbs
Change from start: -42.3 lbs 15.75% lost
Next WW goal: 220 lbs (6.2 lbs to lose)
Change from highest record weight: -63.8 lbs 22% lost

Measurements:
Arms: 13.5in: -3.0 in  from start: -0.5 in from last week
Hips: 42.0in: -7.5 infrom start: -1.0 in from last week
Bust: 42.0in: -6.0 in from start: 0.0in from last week
Waist: 35in: -5.0 in  from start: +1.0in from last week
Thigh: 23in: -5.5 in from start: -1.0in from last week

My goal this week is to run at least 13 miles and lose 1 pound.

33, The Year of Awesomeness.

2013-04-08T21:43:00.000-04:00

After running the Manhattan Half I decided that I wanted to run on my birthday. That was the most awesomest decision that I have this year. (so far) I run the Scotland Run 10K on Saturday and I wasn't disappointed. The excited and joy of being in a crowd of runners, all abilities, always gets me hyper and motivated. I am starting to recognize runners that are in the same corral as me from the different races.

My day didn't start off to awesome. The MTA gods decided that the trains in my area weren't going to cross over to Manhattan. I was forced to take a shuttle bus no matter which side of Manhattan I needed to be. This was also poor planning on my end. Dealing with the shuttle bus elevated my stress level. I didn't need this just before the race. I tried my best to focus and not let the annoying straphangers get to me. Just get on the damn bus and stop asking questions. The shuttle bus dropped me off at West 135th Street at 7:45am. I needed to be at West 63rd Street at 8am!! I got myself together on the train. The passengers near me were looking at me like I was crazy. I had to do it because I didn't have time to get myself together at baguage and make it in to met my new running buddy, T. I run from the train station to the baguage and then run to my corral. That took a lot of my energy. I actually saw the elite runner take off. That was pretty awesome.

My corral was the last one so I was worried about making there on time. I was happy I made it to T in time. She gave me a tiara that said Happy Birthday. Now everyone would know that it was my birthday. All the extra running around made me hot before the race even started for me. After the first mile I saw my BBB on the side line. I was so happy that she was there to cheer me on on my birthday. I was even happier that she was there to take my sweater. I was over heating in the worst way. I was really about to just drop the sweater on the ground. For realz. It slowed my first mile time down by one entire minute. I wasn't able to steady my pace. I was breathing too heavy too soon. I was getting upset. Around that time I caught up with T, she vanished after that.

Then it happened. I started to approach the Harlem Hills at the 2.5 miles mark. I wasn't going to let these darn things take me DOWN!! These evil hills destroyed my body during the Manhattan Half. I wasn't going to let them do that to me again! I focused....I found my pace song....I attacked! I run up that first effin' hill!!!! I shouted when I made it to the top of it. YEAH! I approached each hill like that. After those hills I slowed down a lot! My 4th mile took me 14:58 minutes to finish. After listening to my MapMyRun app tell me my pace had slowed down so much, I picked it back up. I did a lot less walking on the 5th mile. I kicked things into high gear when I could hear the MC. My BBB was at mile 5 and finish line take pictures. I grabbed the MC's attention so that he can tell me happy birthday over the PA. When I made it to the other side of the finish line I ran into one of my IG followers and now friend, Alexie. After the race I couldn't remember his name to save my life. It was so nice to run into another IG follower with the same running goal as me. He is also running the Brooklyn Half and a bunch of the same races I am doing. We took a picture together. Yay to a new running buddy!

After our picture I doubled back to see T crossed the finish line but I would about to cheer for her and gave her a giant hug. I am so proud for you T. You rock!

I was very proud of myself too. I finished the race in 1:29:13 at a 14:24 min/mi pace. The night before I was worried that I wasn't going to be able to finish the race faster then 1:40. I had a dream that the race wasn't going to count like the Manhattan Half. I may have only came in 47 seconds over 90 mins but it's still under 90mins.

Later in the evening I went out with the hubby for a birthday dinner at the Bronx Havana Cafe. One word: YUM!

I got all dolled up for my special dinner. My feet were very mad at me for wear four inch heels after running a 10K. I don't care I looked amazing!

My birthday was amazing and have set the tone for my 33rd year on this Earth. I feel younger then ever and I am loving it. I love the choice that I have made to be more active. My kids are enjoying it too. 33 is going to be the year of the awesomeness for sure.

Putting In The Miles.

2013-04-03T23:10:00.000-04:00

After running the Manhattan Half, not having it count and destroying my body you'd think that I would stop running. Apparently, I have not stop running. I have spent the months following that half marathon training for the next half marathon in the 5-Borough Series.

The Brooklyn Half has been set for Saturday, May 18, 2013.

After fully recovering from all my injuries, I started training. Training was very difficult. I had to do most of my training at the gym. After a while running on the treadmill got VERY boring. I keeping moving forward because I kept telling myself that I next to finish the Brooklyn Half. The only way to be awesome during that race is to push pass the tiredness, excuses, more excuses and put in my miles. Now that if I can put in the miles anyone can.

Here are the miles I put since the Manhattan Half
2/3: 4.18mi (Gridiron Classic)
2/12: 2.02mi
2/14: 4.00mi
2/16: 2.00mi
2/17: 5.00mi
2/19: 2.00mi
2/21: 4.00mi
2/23: 2.00mi
2/26: 2.00mi
February Total: 23.02 miles

3/3: 3.28mi (Coogan's)
3/9: 2.01mi
3/10: 5:39mi
3/19: 2.00mi
3/20: 2.00mi
3/23: 1.49mi
3/26: 5.00mi
2/28: 3.50mi
3/30: 6.65mi
3/31: 3.00mi
March Total: 36.32 miles

I can't believe I run so much. I say that's pretty good for a newbie runner.

Week 91

2013-04-02T20:46:00.000-04:00

It's been six weeks since I have blogged about my weekly Weight Watchers weight in and such. I actually have been so busy and tired from mom life and Brooklyn Half training that I find myself half asleep in front of the computer when I try to start my post.

I have been religiously posting my training on Instagram (@TheAwesomeMom). Some training days are better then others but I am not discouraged. I have been taking advantage of being on spring break for the last 11 days. I added a few training days in for the Five Boro Bike Tour. I so miss riding my bicycles. The winter has not been in my favor to ride the way I want to. Usually on fair weather days I go for a long run.

This month is crunch time for both the Brooklyn Half and Five Boro. No slacking!

I have many races schedule to keep my motivation going. I will be doing the following NYRR races:

Saturday, April 6th: Scotland Run 10k
Sunday, April 21th: Run For Park 4m
Sunday, April 28th: Run As One 4m

These races are going to be awesome. I hope to meet many of the people that I am e-met over on Instagram.

Numbers & Goals Weight:
Start weight: 268.5 lbs BMI 40.3 kg/m^2 This week's weight is: 227 lbs BMI 34.5 kg/m^2 Change since last week: -1.6 lbs Change from start: -41.5 lbs 15.49% lost
Next WW goal: 220 lbs (7.0 lbs to lose)

Measurements: Arms: 14 in from start: -2.5 in Hips: 43.5 in from start: -6.0 in Bust: 42in from start: -6.0 in Waist: 34in from start: -8.5in Thigh: 24 in from start: -4.5in

Sometimes You Need A Reminder

2013-03-28T23:19:00.000-04:00

With so much that goes on in my home on a daily basis I find myself forgetting sometimes how awesome life really is. Life with two kids on the spectrum isn't always Rainbows and Lollipops. There's a lot of crying, a lot of repeat and the always fun echolalia. Our schedule is so set in stone, I ride on auto all the time, almost zombie-like at time.

This pass weekend we had the pleasure of breaking from schedules and such and take a Cool Culture trip to the NY Hall of Science. Big Bea wanted to go there as part of her birthday present. I love the nerd in her. She totally get that from both her mom and dad. She never had a chance to be nothing but that. Big and Little Al remember this museum very well. The kids were the tour guides for this visit.

Since we went to the musuem on a Sunday it was very full. I don't like going to museums when I know they are going to be full. Little Al has a difficult time dealing with large crowds and tends to have meltdowns.

We spent over 2 hours at the Hall of Science. We had no meltdowns, no walking away and no unacceptable behaviors what as ever from my trio. AWESOME! We did see these behaviors in other kids. At one point there were two little kids fight in the middle of the exhibits on the two floor and my kids looked at them like they were crazy. At that moment I was very happy my kids are my kids.

I couldn't have ask for a better trip.

The Infinite Scarf

2013-03-28T22:54:00.000-04:00

This Awesome is really into Scarves. I am not addicted to them like my bestie is but I do have a small collection. I have proudly added two more to my collection. I have added the Infinite Scarf. The web site claims that you are able to do twenty different styles with just one scarf. I put the scarf to the test. Being a top heavy plus sized mommy I never get too excited about things that are might of the upper part of my body. I have plenty going on up top, I didn't need more. I tried a few of the suggested.

The "Warmer" look is one of my favorites.

The "Vest" is a NO!

The "Cape" keeps my shoulders warm.

Little Al wanted to try too. She loves the way the fabric feels.

The "Snood" is awesome. I've used it in the snow and it didn't mess my hair up.

The "Evening Wear" looks.....hmmm...not for me.

You can get Two Infinite Scarves for the special, One-Time Only Price of $19.95 when you use the Coupon Code "CODE132" on the site.

I like this scarf and I am totally rocking them this spring.

Getting It Right.

2013-03-20T14:34:00.001-04:00

I have learned my lesson about proper training after running the Manhattan Half. Running, jogging and walking those 13.1 miles was the hardest physical challenge I ever did in my entire life and that's including child birth.

My BBB, Levonda, give me what I call now the bible of running. She give me The Runner's World Big Book of Marathon and Half Marathon Training just before the Manhattan Half. Of course I didn't have enough time to train like details in the book. I waited until after the race to start reading it. When I started to read it was like a light bulb went off in my head. That book flippin' makes sense. Of course it would make sense! They have proven results in the dang book.

Over the course of the last month and a half I have been focused on training for Brooklyn Half. I don't want a repeat of the Manhattan Half. I want to finish when an awesome time. I want to feel that Brooklyn Half medal in my hands. Everyone that I have done the Brooklyn Half said that it's a fun and exciting race. That makes me want to run it even more!

I have been running on the beginners training schedule that is detailed in the bible. According to the schedule I have to run four days a week over a 13 week period. Since I started training well over 13 week before the big race, I have been able to adjust my runs for my busy mommy life. I do my best to get 4 runs a week. If I can't I do at least 2 runs. Some days I just don't want to run but I do anyway. I have been post pictures of my run days on Instagram and my followers have been awesome with encouragement.

The push came after volunteering for the NYC Half. The joy and accomplish of all the runners that day helped with refocusing on my goal of awesomeness.

Volunteering for the NYC Half

2013-03-18T11:45:00.000-04:00

When I signed up to be a member for NYRR that was the moment I decided that I was going to run the 2014 NYC Marathon using the 9+1 method. That means I have to run 9 qualifying races and volunteer for one. On Sunday I completed my +1!

When I planned out all the races I wanted to run I never decided when I was going to do my +1. After e-meeting a bunch of runners and Weight Watchers members over on Instagram and learned that they all were going to run the NYC Half. I looked into that being my +1. When I started looking I figured that all the spots were going to be filled or I was going to get a boring job or the spots available would be when I was working or in dance mom mode. After a little bit of clicking, I found that medals distribution still had openings. HOW AWESOME!?! Not only did I get to cheer I got to give out the best thing given at this event.

I was very excited to announce that I was going to be giving out medals during the half. I really didn't know what to except since I never volunteer for a road race event before. When I got my email confirming my post I was even more excited.

I knew that volunteering wasn't going to be an easy task for me. I had to travel from the Bronx to South Seaport (Fulton and Water) uber early in the morning on a Sunday. Because the event was so early and I had to travel some distance, I had to take public transportation. When my alarm went off at 5am I hit snooze and proclaimed that I didn't want to go. I wanted stay in the warm bed next to my hubby. I prepared for that....I set a second alarm at 5:45am. When that went off I peeled myself out of the bed, grabbed my pile of clothes I set out on the sofa the night before and bumped into everything on the way to the bathroom. As I got myself ready I was thinking to myself, "Thank God I am not running this one...I am so sleepy." I left my apartment a little 6am. I was suppose to left at 6am on the dot to make it to my post at 7am. I sprinted to the bus stop hoping that the bus driver will skip stops to that I can make it to the train station quickly. I was very lucky because that is what he did. I waited just a few minutes for the 2 train... Which was pretty awesome. I was making great time until the train was stopped in the tunnel for 20 mins. When I finally got to my stop it turned out that there was an apartment fire near where I needed to be. I smelled the smoke when I exited the train. When I got to the surface I saw the smoke. I thought to myself, "Oh great someone set the half on fire." Silly me.

I quickly travelled to the volunteer booth to get my gear. I was late but I wasn't too late. I was escorted to the medals area by a sweet older man. He was joking around and he helped me tied my vest down. I was having major vest issues. My supervisor was very funny and serious at the same time. I can't remember his name one bit. He lost my printed name tag so he especially created one for me. I felt so special (NOT!)

It was time to get down to business and unpack over 15,000 medal with amount 40 volunteers. We all were focus and we had a great rhythm going. As soon as we unpacked everything we pooled together and was told that the front runners were 15 minutes away from the finish line. How exciting! When the front runner came through there was little excitement for me. Many of these runners killed themselves running 13.1 miles in about one hour. My mommy mode was kicking in and I wanted to help them feel better. That was not my job. I had to tell my mommy mode to be quiet and chill.

After the 2 hour mark was when the crowds started coming in. Crowds of physically and emotionally exhausted runners. Old, young and in all shapes and sizes. I did my best to smile for them. I told everyone that they were awesome. I got many many MANY hugs from strangers happy that they finish. I took pictures with many runners. I was also picked out by many of the male runners to give them their medals. I didn't really understand that. Maybe they didn't want a man giving them their medals. A few older men bowed down to one knee so that I can "crown" them with their medals. Many times tears came to my eyes because the pride of the runners. The everyday men and women who do this for themselves not for prize money or sponsorship.

I got to meet two very special ladies that I e-met on Instagram, Kathy and Lucinda. Both of these ladies walked to me. I am so happy that they did. I am terrible at picking people out of a crowd that aren't my children. I screamed and gave them both a giant hugs. I am very proud of these ladies. I am so happy to have been apart of their finish line moment. I can't wait to see you at the Brooklyn Half Kathy. I can't wait to see you when you return to NYC, Lucinda.

Picture taken by Sheryl

As time ticked on I was looking for my inspiration Sheryl. I hadn't seen her yet and the official time clock was well pass three hours. I check the NYC Half app to see her last check point. She had passed the 15k mark. I was looking for her pink compression sock. There were very few runner left coming in. It was going to be easy to spot her. Suddenly!!! I see pink socks! I started screaming and jumping around like a crazy woman! I saw her use her last bit of energy to run across the finish line. I hear the announcer say her name and I screamed even louder. I stood in the middle of the road waiting for her to come to me. She didn't realize it was me! We took our picture. I am so proud of you Sheryl.

After 5 hours of standing and screaming in the cold, I walked away from this experience motivated. I want to have an amazing run for the Brooklyn Half. This is the push that I needed to get my brain re-focused on my goal.

Turning Five with Little Al

2013-03-12T21:53:00.001-04:00

The Turning Five IEP meeting has been completed. The meeting happened about two weeks ago. Our IEP team wanted Little Al's current teacher to has some voice so the meeting was held at Little Al's school.

The meeting went very smoothly. I got everything that Little Al needed including the Autism classification that I have been fight for. The last two years had been nothing. Be a battle with CPSE and I am so glad that the battle is over. I have to last until August without blowing my top with CPSE.

I want to say so many things about what happened in that meeting. I think it is best not to make that public.I will sure that I am very happy that I have a great IEP /Turning Five team on my side. They see what I see. They see what is and is not going on with my Little Al without sugar coating.

The "final" IEP was sent home in Big Al's back bag today. I was very happy to see the true identity if my child written correctly in the IEP. As I read on I couldn't help but to get sad and worried. My baby is functioning almost like a baby. She is functioning almost like 2 year old. She is 4.5 years old. She is considered non-verbal.

I wish I could rewind time and demanded more services. Turned that 3 hour meeting years ago into 5 hour meeting. Stomp my feet and got more for her. I have to remember that I have done a lot for her and I can't beat my self up for what life has handed her.

I have to keep fighting for the best for her, celebrate all her achievements big and small and remind her that Mommy will always protect her.

Choices

2013-02-21T09:18:00.000-05:00

The choices we make effect our world. Big or small these choices effect everything. Yesterday, I made my choice. I made the choice to place Little Al in a District 75 school. A "District 75 provides appropriate standards-based educational programming with related service supports, including interventions and direct service delivery to students with severe challenges."

What I want was for her to be in the same school as her brother, Big Al. I want her to be in that school with a setting of 12:1:1 with a 1:1 para. Just because I want doesn't mean it is what is best for her. The little things that we take for granted in a Community School effect Little Al in a huge way. Just imagine... how overwhelming the lunch room would be to a child with severe sensory integration disorder? Having to seat in an environment that is controlled chaos 5 days a week for 50 minutes. All I see it a complete meltdown. No eating and lots of crying and sweating. You can be the best 1:1 paraprofessional in the world but would you know what to do on the very first that the meltdown happens...and the 2nd and the 100th?

I can see Little Alyson trying to make her way out of the building to go home. I don't even want to imagine how I would feel if a school called me to tall me that she is lost.

Safety is a big factor in my decision.

Now I have to hunt for the right school for our family.

Wordless Wednesday: The Bronx

2013-02-13T13:59:00.001-05:00

Turning Five: District 75 or Community School

2013-02-12T17:37:00.000-05:00

I really haven't blogged much about Little Al's IEP progresses. I am having a very difficult time with the entire ordeal. This entire school year seems to have become a train wreck. I can say with confidence that I know myself when it comes to Special Education in NYC and the politics that surround it. Not just letting "them" hand over an IEP and signing it is not my style. I need to pick apart what is handed over to me. I have trained my eyes to see those "common mistakes" that stereotypes almost all of special needs students. To some this just means I am a bitch.....I don't think so. After the entire progress of Little Al last CPSE IEP I have been turned off from sharing my journey. That progress became a scream-fest! The person on the other end seems to think that she is right and knows what's best for every student that walks into Easter Seals. That doesn't work for me. I am the one person in this world that know what my child needs.

I have been apart of the Easter Seals CDC family for 5 years. I have met some amazing people at work in that little building on East Tremont. I just don't feel that same love this year. I am used to the teacher being very open to me but this teacher never really contacts me. I need know what is going on...I am not an attack dog.(all the time) I feel very closed off from the classroom.

The Turning Five progress is very stressful but I am happy that it is happening. Little Al gets to move forward into the next step in life. It's my job to make sure that those steps have the right ones for her.

The progress for Big Al was easy as pie. I didn't worry much and I was just a little nervous The team that did his progress is doing hers. They remember me and remember my drive. This team is the kind of team every one should have working on their side. I don't think dedication is a strong enough word to use for their awesomeness. This is how awesome they are: I asked to have Little Al's Turning Five IEP meeting and Big Al's annual IEP meeting on the same at different times so that I won't have to take two days off from work. BOOM! It was done. The team is the guiding light this un-friendly place known as special education hell.

As of Friday, Little Al's meeting has been set. I have already had many conversations with the school psychologist over placement. It boils down to this...district 75 setting pending or community school (the same awesome school Big Al is in.) 12:1:1 with a 1:1 crisis management para. The school psychologist is leaning towards the D75 placement. She think that more structured and larger staff will be a better fit for Little Al. However, she doesn't want to close off the option of given her a sit in Big Al's school with a para.

There is a lot of bad karma that surrounds a D75 placement. You right away think of kids in wheel chairs with helmets. I don't see it has a bad thing. Kids with disabilities have the right to be who they are where ever they are placed. My consider is Little Al's safety. In a community school there is not a person in the lunch room making sure that she is eating. If she wants to go the bathroom she is going to walk right out of the classroom. That will give any staff member a heart attack.

So much more stuff is rolling around my head. I can't even straighten it all to write it down. Talking to the current teacher this afternoon didn't help.

I am going to have to go with my gut.....

Week 84

2013-02-10T19:44:00.000-05:00

I made this pass week my rest and recovery week from the Manhattan Half and Gridiron Classic. I did get in at least a 30 minute work out each day except on Monday. I did simple things like walking at a quicker pace and walking up and down the stairs at work instead of sending a student on the errand.

Tomorrow starts week 4 of my Even Better in 2013 Challenge. The ladies that have sign up for the challenge are an awesome bunch. We have been very supportive of each other. It's great to have great support for this healthy living challenge. For those who are involved and want to see the current standing ask to join our Facebook Group.

This pass week I started dance classes. I am taking beginner Salsa at Mambo 101 in the Bronx. I got a Groupon for lessons back in December and never used it. I got in on the deal before my Groupon expired. I am very happy that I did. When I got there I didn't know what to except The studio is on the basement level of a multi store front building. It looked like I was going to get kidnapped or something. After seeing many students there ready to learn I knew I wasn't going to be taken away. The two hour low impact lesson was a lot of fun. I felt I learned a lot for my first day. The instructor was very lively and awesome. The one thing BIG thing I learned was I don't need to wear my sneakers to class. I need me some slippery-ish heeled-type shoes. (That's my fancy Dance Mom talk...lol) I also learned I REALLY need to work on my posture. I am really looking forward to the rest of my sessions. Depending on how successful the next few weeks are I may remain a student after my Groupon is over. If I keep going I would love to do this class was a bunch of friends....hint hint!

This week I will be starting my Brooklyn Half Marathon training. The Brooklyn Half will be held in May. After much reading from the book my BBB gave me, I need to get started like yesterday. I learned how to address my foot issues with stretch, icing and the right running shoes. I am even considering taking running classes with NYRR. I want to get it right. If anyone is offering free to low-cost running classes please let me know. I will NOT be training in the freezing temps. I am so over that after my last two races. I will be training at the gym and when the weather allowed I will train outside.

Another event I am training for is the Five Boro Bike Tour. 40 miles of car-free cycling in the five boro. Last year I did fairly well and this year I want to be even more awesome. I don't want to get off my bike and walk the bridges this year. I want to tackle them! I plan on using Lenny (the cruiser) and not Sheldon (the fixie). I have enough time to get use to riding a fixed gear (not free wheeling) for that distance but I think Lenny is going to be my go to bike.

I have found that these events and training has helped with all the stress with the Turning Five progress with Little Al. I am so worried about where is going to be place in September. She is on the border of the placement of Community School and District 75. I hear many opinions on what to do but it all boils down to what is good for my girl.

Just in case you were wondering what is going on here. I have transferred my weight loss blog post over to my mom blog. It's all awesome so might as well keep it in the same spot.