LESLIES537

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Not myself lately

Thursday, October 27, 2011

Wow, it's been a long time since I've blogged. Partly because when I don't comment on my friend's blogs, why should I expect them to comment on mine? That wouldn't be fair to anyone now would it? Another reason would be because I've found myself so depressed lately. I really don't know why either. It's probably a combination of things. Mostly, I think it's from my "life change" of going from working full time at a job I've been at for six years to totally changing my schedule. In a way, I'm mourning the loss of my co-workers, who were my closest friends for all those years. Plus, I miss all of our customers. That may sound odd but this was a close-knit group of people--we knew everyone by name and instead of talking business, we'd chat like it was a hair salon or something, lol. These people were the ones that were there for me when I was going through the roughest time of my life and really reached out to me. I didn't think I'd miss it like I do but I guess it's just the huge change that I'm still adjusting to. I love being in school but darnit I miss my friends!!!

I could go on to speculate that it's also from learning that my kid has a learning disability and wondering if it's somehow my fault. (I know it's not, but c'mon, that is a normal mother's 1st response.) Maybe it's from knowing that Christmas is just around the corner, which means so is the anniversary of the worst day of my life. Maybe it's my financial situation and the fact that I'm worrying how I'm going to pay for Christmas this year. Maybe it's the guilt I feel from not paying enough attention to what's going on in my sparkfriend's lives. Maybe it's because my bf has moved in and I'm still adjusting to the loss of my freedom, so to speak. Goodness, it could be a lot of things!

All I know is that I'm having a super hard time pulling myself out of it. I've gone to the doctor and have been placed on anti-depressants now. I can't WAIT for them to kick in! I really need a boost in my seratonin!

I'm going to apologize in advance if I don't personally thank you for commenting on this blog to try and save myself the guilt I will feel when I don't thank you. I'm sorry if I'm not being a good friend to you! I just really need to get out of this mental funk.

So, not my most positive blog but I just needed to get this out. I was hoping that brainstorming about the reasons could help me pinpoint something, but nope. I think it's just plain depression caused by a lack of chemicals in my brain. I'm not motivated to eat right, to exercise, and I've gained weight because of it--bringing me down some more.

I almost don't even want any comments on this blog because I don't want you feeling sorry for me. But it does help to know you care, so I guess it's "ok" if you comment. LOL Gawd, how self-absorbed am I?! Wait, don't answer that! lol

Thank you for putting up with me! I will be back to my normal self soon, don't worry. I'm just taking it a day at a time and I know it will pass sooner or later. Let's just hope it's sooner than later!

May I have some with my now, please?!

Member Comments About This Blog Post:

IUHRYTR 11/26/2011 7:46PM

I can relate. Hoping to get back on my depression medication. I hate the feeling that comes on that says that nothing is worthwhile and that drains my energy. Here's to both of us feeling better real soon. -- Lou

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LIBBYFITZ 11/26/2011 5:03AM

Finally saw your name and decided to get back to your sparkpage and your blogs. Life is hard and you are having heaps going on. Christmas is a stressfull time and you have a sad anniversary coming up. Love you heaps. I am on antidepressants and will be for the rest of my life at is a genetic thing. I can function and have a reasonably happy life. Hope your's kick in soon and you start to feel better.

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KRITKRIT 11/6/2011 5:40PM

From one

to another -- BIG HUGSSSS!!! So glad to hear your weekenda after this was super.

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PCOH051610 11/3/2011 8:56AM

Leslie - Here is a kick in the rear end.....

because you are too hard on yourself! Of course none of feel "sorry" for you but we all feel for what you are going through. As somebody who has lived with depression since childhood I can say that any changes in my life....good or bad...always cause some flucuations in my mental state.

Everything you described is stressor, again good or bad, and that kind of stuff takes its toll. Please be kind to yourself!

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KRYANPRINCESS 11/1/2011 8:20AM

I love you! And please know that what you are feeling and going through is completely normal. Major life changes cause loss and stress, you will get through this, and will come out of it just as strong as ever! The biggest step in all this...you recognizing that there is a problem and seeking help! good for you! Lots of prayers, love and hugs!

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AZURELITE 10/31/2011 5:54PM

Sorry I'm just seeing this blog today... I hope you're feeling more positive now. Life changes throw us all for a loop, so don't apologize for needing help...that's what your sparkfriends are for!
Be well, my friend.

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BOMBCHELL23 10/30/2011 8:00PM

Leslie,
We all have those feelings at some time including me. I want to blog so badly but cannot find the time. So much going on within my world and need to share but alas no time. Take care of yourself and understand we are here for you.

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WARMSPRINGDAY 10/29/2011 9:24PM

I can empathize with your situation - need I say more?

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TRUE-NESS 10/29/2011 9:55AM

You got a LOT going on, chica! I don't feel sorry for you... it's life. Life can be overwhelming sometimes UNTIL you prioritize and change your perspective. There are some things that you are concerned about that you CAN actually do something about. Do you know which things they are??

ONE BIGGIE: Go visit your friends! I'm always amazed when folks stop working together that somehow friendships end... that is very telling about the level of the friendships. The friendships were bred out of convenience of working together everyday, but they will THRIVE from the sacrifices each friend makes to make it lasts. Now it's not convenient anymore. Somebody has got to give up a little of their free time to make a phone call or get together. The more you do it, the less time it'll take "catching up." DO IT!

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HIKETOHEIGHTS 10/28/2011 11:01PM

Leslie, I am sorry you are going through this. I know how you feel. I have not been able to participate like I would like to. I can read blogs & I enjoy them, but commenting is hard. Being happy for others come so easy to me, but writing happy thoughts when you are down is so difficult. Please don't feel bad. You can reach out any time for help because you have already given so much inspiration to all of us!!

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STEINERMOM 10/28/2011 9:34PM

Leslie, I am truly sorry that you are feeling down. I hope that you are able to be patient with yourself during this challenging time. I hope that you are able to express love towards yourself and to receive it from others. B vitamin supplementation can really help with depression (see Food Matters website), but blogging and getting to the underlying issues is also worthy. Sending good vibes and support your way.
Kymm

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JUSTDUCKY1405 10/28/2011 4:30PM

You are being far too hard on yourself hun! And, quite honestly... that list you rattled off... totally enough to send anyone into the slumps for 'awhile'.

You will get past this! I promise! :)

I feel some of your pain for my own reasons and understand!

Again... I love you! And good for you for getting it out there!

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JSPIN74 10/28/2011 11:48AM

Girl sometimes you just need to be negative...it's ok...you have every right & reason...just get it out ;)

You're overwhelmed & in new territory without your usual safety nets in place...so it's got you feel some kind of way....you're strong, awesomely resilient, smart/loving...you'll find your way & be better on the other side of it all. It doesn't help to hear this perhaps...it's not constructive "advice", BUT it just helps to KNOW it. Ya know? Anyway

(gonna listen to my advise to u because i'm so feeling the same way in many respects lately - lol)

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BOVEY63 10/28/2011 11:40AM

Lots of prayers coming your way - praying that your spirits are lifted.

Don't worry about not responding or commenting back - you need to take care of yourself right now. Just know that I am here for you (and many others too) and want you to do all that you need to in order to feel better.

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BTRTHANEVA 10/28/2011 11:40AM

You know I've always been one to offer a unique perspective on things...so here goes:

You are going through 7 major life changes:

~the loss of your job - and your *family* of coworkers and customers who were a BIG part of your support network.
~Enrolling back into school for your master's.
~Learning of your child's learning disorder.
~Difficult financial times, esp around the holidays.
~The anniversary of your fianc�s death.
~Cement head moved in!!!
And let's not forget your guilt you feel as to not being as *involved in your sparkfriends' lives*.

Do you feel like you've lost control or direction? So many things going on that you don't know where to start and you find yourself doing nothing except feeling guilt? How's that working for you? (this was asked with lots of love...)

OK, what out of that group can you deal with immediately by giving it a new perspective/attitude:

Your children's learning disorder...Feel glad that it was identified and can now come up with a plan to work with it...You will both benefit from it in the long run!

Less presents around the tree - my BEST xmas ever was one in which we all made each other's gifts as there was NO money. I can still remember what my daughter made me: a scarf, a cassette of songs she wanted me to listen to when I was feeling alone or sad, a paper picture frame with tinsel from the tree with a picture of the two of us. We cooked at a shelter that day. The gift of doing for others and giving gifts of the heart were the best presents ever. It's almost November. Get your kids ready for a different Christmas this year now. Why not make homemade Christmas cards? Or ask them to look into ways to make this your best Christmas ever without the $$$ attached to your love for each other???

Cement head moving in. This will be an adjustment - and the key to making it work is communication. Especially now - by letter each other know what you need.

Your finance's death. I don't know if you ever get *over* losing someone you love. I believe it's in the way to handle your emotions. Remember, you're setting an example for your/his children. Why not try to remember the positives and live your lives in a way in which he would have wanted you to? Celebrate him!

School - this is a challenging time, you're following your heart and moving on to a brighter future for you and your family. Keep your eyes on the prize! You are also bound to make some new friends along the way... Well, in your case - MANY new friends...

The loss of your social network from your job. Try to keep in touch with those people there that made a difference in your life. Just the sound of their voice on the phone is sure to lift your spirits. Stay connected!

Try to keep things with a positive perspective. You've got a great future ahead of you! Don't spend this moment stuck in past or in your guilt.

Leslie, your putting yourself out there was the best thing you could have done. I hope at least one of my suggestions helps you get back to your *normal* self. It's not just a matter of the drugs kicking in. It's what you can do to help put these huge changes into a manageable plan to move forward.

I

U!
(see I can keep it simple.. hehehehehe)

Comment edited on: 10/28/2011 11:44:49 AM

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CRAZYDOGLADYBO 10/28/2011 10:42AM

One day at a time! Take a moment for yourself, be it in the bathroom behind a locked door or just sit in your car with the music on all by yourself.

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REDRUNNERMOM713 10/28/2011 10:24AM

Good for you for blogging about how you are feeling. It's good to get things out of your head. And please don't ever feel like you are obligated to thank everyone or to feel guilty if you can't! We all know how crazy life gets. I'm sorry you are struggling with so much right now. I wish there was something I could do to help! I'm ALWAYS here for you! Maybe we need to get in a walk at the trail for some girl gossip time. Hang in there sweetie and just keep taking it day to day. Lots of (((HUGS)))

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SURLYGIRL 10/28/2011 9:30AM

Big life changes (like the ones you are going through) are at the top of the list of depression triggers. You've done a great job identifying your issues and seeking medical help for them - Good for You - many people don't get that far.

Blogging usually provides a bit of clarity for me so I totally get how you want to write about stuff, but don't want people to feel obligated to respond. I feel that same way, but SP friends just rally behind us and are there b/c we want to be, not b/c we have to be.

You do whatever you need to take care of you -

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BYEFATNANNY 10/28/2011 9:09AM

You have a lot on your plate these days, that can bring anyone down, even high energy Leslie. You also have people that depend on you and some days, its hard to take care of ourselves, let alone others. It's always darkest before the dawn. Take care of you top priorities and the rest will fall into place. The positives...you are doing great at school, you have two GREAT kids (& its Halloween, bet they'll be adorable) Don't let the new lable get in the way that has been placed on your child. (I think kids are over diagnosed these days) Give him/her some study help is all. And hey you have a bf, (albeit a little less freedom) to share things with.
I find getting my self into nature brings me out of these slumps, in fact there was a Spark article the other day about how being outdoors is good for you. Go for a picnic or long walk in the woods this weekend (with one of your old work friends maybe),to get away. Most importantly, your real life is MUCH more important to take care of than a bunch of ol' bloggers like me. You are number 1, ALWAYS. Take care spark buddy.

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THETURTLEBEAR 10/28/2011 8:39AM

No pity party from me, don't worry! You are a formidable woman but like the rest of us, you're human. I think the reaction is totally understandable, but it's time to start faking it til you make it. Start telling yourself you are moving in the right direction with your mood, even if it initially feels like a load of crap. You will win yourself over...I know you will.

Meanwhile, guilt over Spark friend abuse? Puleeze! Let me get out my wet noodle to whack you. Anybody who is your friend should know enough about your new schedule to cut you some slack. Absolutely no apologies necessary. FYI right now I have my Friend Feed turned off except for blogs and weight loss feed because sometimes I feel it's too much and this is how I take a break...and I don't feel one bit guilty. Take care of me first is my new motto!!

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ASHLEYKAT 10/28/2011 7:47AM

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WISLNDR 10/28/2011 6:43AM

You took an important step in putting your feelings into words. It's been my experience that once you move those feelings into print, you've got room in your brain for better things.

When I'm at my best, I know to focus only on what I can control. This very moment in time is about all I can control (and that's enough!!)

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DUSTYGIRL25 10/28/2011 4:18AM

Awwww...It's gonna be all right. Sounds to me like you're doing all the right things including letting a Dr. know how you feel. And you know? I think it's also the time of the year that's tough on all of us. The holidays are so much fun when we're kids but as adults and as parents we have so much responsibility that it just begins to stress us out, big time.
I'm so happy to hear that your BF is moving in, it's always an adjustment at first, learning to share spaces & drawers. But in the long run I'm sure it will be very helpful for you to have him close by. He'll be someone you can lean on and he'll be there for you.
You have the most adorable and loving children and you know they make you laugh especially when you need it the most.
I'd say if you have any spare time at all, try and set something up so you can invite your past work friends over and I'm sure everyone will be so happy to see you.
Most of all don't forget, we've all been there, where you are now. Soooo....don't forget we are all you're SparkFriends and we won't judge you. We will just be there for you.

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QUILTINGB52 10/28/2011 3:27AM

Congratulations for being aware of your depression and for seeking medical assistance!! Not everyone is even aware of what's happening, but you've been able to pinpoint several stressors that would cause anyone to be down.

I've got a picture of my anti-depressants on the fridge. It's an old Tide bottle that reads "Prozac extra strength". lol

Just stay focused on YOUR needs....soon you'll be back to yourself!!

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HICKOK-HALEY 10/28/2011 2:42AM

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_LINDA 10/28/2011 2:25AM

So sorry you are going through all these things. You have really made a huge life change and its disrupting you out of your normal routine on all fronts. To lose all those wonderful friends and co workers -and possibly some of your self esteem not working is really a huge blow, so don't go beating on yourself for being blue. And the dreaded anniversary coming up s enough to put anyone under :(
I am so glad you re sharing this with us. I would far rather you drop in and tell us how things are going then worry about getting around to everyone's blogs. Honestly, true friends don't care about that, only about what is happening with you and worry when we hear nothing for a while. Do let it go and vent all you like.
We are here for you,

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CELLISTA1 10/28/2011 1:52AM

Leslie, that's the genius of Spark - you get to say what you feel. People understand. You are not required to a)thank everybody all the time or b)feel guilty if you don't. You don't want anyone to feel sorry for you? Okay. We know you are going to come out of the depression and get back to being yourself. You will!

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TEMPEST272002 10/28/2011 12:00AM

1st off, don't you dare thank me for my blog posts! Respond if I say something that moves you, but I'll be annoyed if you just thank me for thanking me's sake.

That is one seriously long list of possible reasons. Hugs to you. I suspect it's more a case of each of those things contributing to your stress level & the cumulative effects pushing you over the edge with the seratonin levels. I'm glad to hear that you've taken care of yourself by going to the doctor. Some things can't be fixed by will alone.

Don't worry about being a "bad friend". True friendship means that each person is allowed to need support at some times and provide it at others. You've already given so much of yourself to me and to many others. This is your time to need. That's ok. You're entitled.

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SMARGED 10/27/2011 11:55PM

Hi, Leslie! I dropped by your page to say hello, and saw your blog! You know, I think it's good you decided to blog, and let it all out!! Just venting can help you clarify and understand your feelings and that's the first step toward bouncing back!!

You are going through a lot right now!! Just want to remind you that we, your friends, love and accept you just as you are!! And I'll be praying for you for interior peace!

Marge

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ERIKO1908 10/27/2011 11:41PM

Leslie...Leslie...Leslie...sounds like life & humanity & we will love you through it!!! (((HUGS & PRAYERS)))

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RUNJEWELRUN 10/27/2011 11:14PM

LOL Hugs! You will get through it :)

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Spark Circle of Friends

Thursday, October 13, 2011

I received this from a treasured friend. I printed it off over a year ago and saved it. Just yesterday I was feeling like I needed to express to all of my Spark friends how grateful I was for them. Then I found this and thought, "Perfect!" Hope you like it as much as I did!

Two Boxes

God's Boxes

I have in my hands two boxes,
Which God gave me to hold.
He said, 'Put all your sorrows in the black box,
And all your joys in the gold.'

I heeded His words, and in the two boxes,
Both my joys and sorrows I stored,
But though the gold becomes heavier each day,
The black was as light as before.

With curiosity, I opened the black,
I wanted to find out why,
And I saw, in the base of the box, a hole,
Which my sorrows had fallen out by.

I showed the hole to God, and mused,
'I wonder where my sorrows could be!'
He smiled a gentle smile and said,
'My child, they're all here with me..'

I asked God, why He gave me the boxes,
Why the gold and the black with the hole?
'My child, the gold is for you to count your blessings,
The black is for you to let go.'

We should consider all of our Spark friends a blessing. Share this with a Spark friend today just to let them know you are thinking of them and that they are a joy in your life. I just did!

A ball is a circle, no beginning, no end.
It keeps us together like our Spark Circle of Friends.
But the treasure inside for you to see,
Is the treasure of friendship you've granted to me!

Member Comments About This Blog Post:

GHOSTGRL21 10/19/2011 4:01PM

Very touching! I love that!

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JSPIN74 10/17/2011 12:18PM

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KARBIE18 10/17/2011 11:26AM

That's beautiful! I love it!! Thanks so much for sharing.

Hugs,
Karen

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BELLALUCIA 10/14/2011 5:10PM

Lovely!

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BOVEY63 10/14/2011 3:40PM

You are a blessing!

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AZURELITE 10/14/2011 11:05AM

Lovely! Thank you, Spark friend! Have a great weekend!

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_LINDA 10/14/2011 11:00AM

I am so glad we crossed paths, what a wonderful way to express it. Thank you for being a great friend!!

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BTRTHANEVA 10/14/2011 7:55AM

Accentuate the positives in our lives! 1st on that list would be my friends - the people that I choose to share myself with - that support me, love me for who I am, and make my world a wonderful place in which to live!

THANK YOU, MY FRIEND...

Blessings!

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ABB698 10/14/2011 5:01AM

Nice! We are blessed that our paths have crossed and that we get to share such a special friendship. Have a fab weekend beautiful, love u!!!

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IUHRYTR 10/13/2011 11:41PM

Sadly, we often neglect telling those close to us or who have helped us or influenced us that we appreciate knowing them and are grateful for their help. Wouldn't it be a shame if we failed to do so and then lost those people? How depressing that would be to keep thinking, "If I had only told them how I feel." So, Leslie, here is my message to you:

-- Lou

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HOLLYS_NEW_LIFE 10/13/2011 8:12PM

That's beautiful Leslie! Thank you my friend : )

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ELLFIN3 10/13/2011 4:43PM

Yes!!!! I have always told people who I add as Friends I am adding them to My Circle of Friends! I very happy and glad I can count You as one of My Circle of Friends!!!

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PCOH051610 10/13/2011 4:35PM

This is beautiful! Thank you for thinking about me, my friend!

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BYEFATNANNY 10/13/2011 3:22PM

Glad we are here for each other. Spark friends are truely great to have. You are

Comment edited on: 10/13/2011 3:22:47 PM

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TEMPEST272002 10/13/2011 3:13PM

Hugs right back to you!

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DUSTYGIRL25 10/13/2011 2:42PM

That is so Beautiful!

Thank you for sharing such a wonderful words.

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JUSTDUCKY1405 10/13/2011 2:21PM

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THETURTLEBEAR 10/13/2011 2:18PM

Awesome!

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LALASLAND 10/13/2011 2:15PM

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RUNNERRACHEL 10/13/2011 2:13PM

Thank you for sharing!

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LIVIN2LOVE1 10/13/2011 2:06PM

Very nice. I LOVE it.

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Proud Mom--must brag!

Sunday, October 09, 2011

I'm finally figuring out how to balance Spark, my Fabulous Fitness group on Facebook, school and life...I think! ha! I use my phone a lot to make comments when I'm on break at class or waiting at my kid's baseball practice. It really helps with my busy schedule...gotta love technology!

I'm not keeping up with my fitness as I should, but I'm at least being active every day and eating clean most of the time. I've struggled a little with stress eating but think I've pretty much got that under control now. The scale is staying the same with no significant gain or loss, so I'm happy with that. I still can't believe I've been able to maintain my weight loss for about a year now! I'm going to look back at my blogs and see when I actually hit my goal weight...it's gotta be close to a year. Hmmm...a one year sparkversary of maintaining my goal weight (well, within 5 lbs of it)--there's my next blog, I think!

The kids are doing great and are loving baseball right now. My daughter joined my son's team and is actually pretty good! I kinda like having them on the same team because that means I'm running them both to the same place and don't have to juggle schedules. They sure do keep me on the go but I wouldn't have it any other way! I love being a mom!

Which brings me to a little bragging. A mom's gotta brag, right?! :) The kids were doing some drawing the other day and my son made me the cutest picture, EVARR! You've gotta see this! At the bottom of the page is a picture of him and I praying, daddy is an angel in the sky and at the top is a manger scene with baby Jesus! Isn't this the most precious thing you've ever seen?!! I'm just in awe of my little artist! Gosh, I love him!

Member Comments About This Blog Post:

TRANSFORMWE 10/15/2011 11:37PM

Congratulations to both of you!
Great success maintaining over a year and what a talented artist you have!

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THETURTLEBEAR 10/11/2011 10:56PM

That is totally adorable!

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_LINDA 10/10/2011 10:33PM

Well done for maintenance!! Its great you can keep in touch with your busy life! Wonderful drawing! How awesome is that?? Brag away!

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RAINBOWFALLS 10/10/2011 7:57PM

That is one for framing!

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KANSASROSE67 10/10/2011 4:03PM

Love the picture...thanks for sharing it!

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LIVIN2LOVE1 10/10/2011 3:38PM

I love his picture. That is the sweetest thing!

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BOVEY63 10/10/2011 12:45PM

I love your son's picture! I'll bet there's an angel smiling over it too.

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DUSTYGIRL25 10/9/2011 10:54PM

So adorable, I love the picture. Sounds like you sure do have a lot on your plate but some how still managing. You're doing fantastic!
Yay for You!!!

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REDRUNNERMOM713 10/9/2011 10:37PM

What a sweet picture that is!!! Happy to hear you are finding balance. I'm still struggling with that and I don't have nearly as much going on as you!! Maybe we can squeeze in another walk at the trail in the next couple weeks!

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HOLLYS_NEW_LIFE 10/9/2011 8:15PM

That's a great picture! I'm glad you're finding balance in your hectic life : )

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IAMWINNING 10/9/2011 7:15PM

Awww. He's so talented.

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IUHRYTR 10/9/2011 7:07PM

Good going with the weight loss and for being the kind of mother who passes along to her children a sense of appreciation of life. -- Lou

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BYEFATNANNY 10/9/2011 4:24PM

Just wanna eat that little kid up! Your kids are so darn cute and sweet!
Glad your life is in balance, busy lady!

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MARTHASPARKS 10/9/2011 2:17PM

Sweet picture!

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RUNNERRACHEL 10/9/2011 2:11PM

Wonderful! Happy you're balancing everything. Your son is so sweet!

Love it!

Great job maintaining and everything you're doing!

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ABB698 10/9/2011 1:21PM

What a sweet picture, which is a perfect portrayal of your beautiful family! Give Lil Picasso a hug for me! Love you!

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LALASLAND 10/9/2011 1:21PM

Leslie, everything in this blog is great, but that picture takes the cake!

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SUPER3800 10/9/2011 12:52PM

Excellent picture! Keep up the good work with finding balance, that is not easy, but you seem to have a good handle on it!

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JSPIN74 10/9/2011 12:21PM

that picture is really the sweetest...so beautiful :)

sp glad to hear you're finding some balance with so much going on...you're a real super woman/mom/student/& much much more ;)

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My first Spark Meet-up with demanded pics ;)

Sunday, October 02, 2011

So much to say, where do I begin and how do I make it short enough that I don't bore ya?! hehe I made it through my tests and my research paper with flying colors!! I ACED first graduate level exam! Any self-doubt I had went out the door with that grade. I also received an A on my paper and am STILL excited about that one!

My son turned 7 this week and was so stoked about his party this weekend. I ended up sending out almost 25 invitations!! He gave 10 out at school originally, and 2 days before the party I still hadn't gotten a single RSVP. So out of desperation, I handed out more invitations to his baseball team at his practice Thursday. I still didn't get ANY rsvp's and was really worried that he wasn't going to have anyone show up. He ended up having 3 boys come and the neighbor came at the last minute so that made a total of 4. My son had an absolute blast though and I was so relieved that all went well. Thank God those boys showed up! They didn't RSVP, but they showed! Phew! People just don't RSVP anymore and personally I think it's pretty rude, but what can ya do. I'm just so glad my son had a great time and he loved his party. He told me that it was "The best day ever." That made everything worth it.

Here's a few pics from his big day. :)

They just loved bobbing for apples! You can tell by the first picture that they really got into it! My daughter was the first to put her entire head in the water, of course!

I also had my first Spark meet-up!! My friend Kelly and I got to talking and figured out that we both run on the same trail not far from my home! It wasn't a week later that we had a time set to finally meet each other. I was STOKED!!! It was so exciting to meet her! I was all nervous excited like it was a first date or something, LOL, but it went great! My son came along and we just took a stroll, having to go at a slow pace so that he would keep up. He was busy snapping pictures. I had given him my camera so he would have something to keep him occupied and so that Kelly and I could have some chatting time. It worked out perfect b/c I was able to get a picture of us! I saw that some of you demanded pics, haha, and I didn't even read that until after. I'm sooo glad I thought of giving him a camera to play with or else I wouldn't have gotten this pic!

It was soooo awesome meeting you, Kelly! I can't wait to hang out again sometime! It's so cool being friends with you in "real life", too!

Here's a couple more pics my son took on the trail. He actually got some pretty good ones. The last one is priceless....I told you Kelly that this picture would probably turn out really good!! lol ;) He's such a ham!

^^LOL

Member Comments About This Blog Post:

ABB698 10/6/2011 11:57PM

So happy you finally had a real life Spark meet! YAY!! Sparkfriends are the best! Hope you and yours are well! Miss you girlie!

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GOGOMAMA 10/6/2011 10:13AM

How fun and a beautiful trail!! Love that you met up with a sparkfriend!! Your son is adorable!!

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GOGOMAMA 10/6/2011 10:13AM

How fun and a beautiful trail!! Love that you met up with a sparkfriend!! Your son is adorable!!

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GOGOMAMA 10/6/2011 10:13AM

How fun and a beautiful trail!! Love that you met up with a sparkfriend!! Your son is adorable!!

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BOMBCHELL23 10/6/2011 5:41AM

Loving your great attitude! I miss you but am swamped with grad school myself.

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RUSSELLORAMA 10/6/2011 1:10AM

That trail looks amazing! Where is it?

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TEENY_BIKINI 10/5/2011 9:47PM

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LIVIN2LOVE1 10/5/2011 10:30AM

Awesome job on your school work, smartypants!

You had the perfect number at your son's party. Relaxed and fun. He's such a cutie!

That's pretty cool you got to meet your SP friend in person. I really laughed out loud at your nervous and excited comment... like you were going on your first date. I can so relate to that!

Excellent photos! Thanks for sharing!

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IUHRYTR 10/3/2011 7:33PM

So sad that more kids didn't go to the party. I agree that not RSVPing is rude and inconsiderate. On a positive note, we're 1 for 1 getting As on "our" papers.

-- Lou

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JENN03275 10/3/2011 4:32PM

What a bunch of great news! ACING the tests and papers, your son's party and meeting Kelly!!

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CAALAN23 10/3/2011 4:23PM

All of y'all are just too cute!

congrats on the A score! That is

Tina

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ELLFIN3 10/3/2011 3:17PM

Great pics of the Party and the walk! Your Son does take great pics! Give Him a Birthday Hug from me!!!!!

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DUSTYGIRL25 10/3/2011 1:09PM

Perfect! So glad all went so well for his B-day party. Probably good that all 25 didn't show up. Looks like he had lots of fun.
Looks like you had fun also at your first Sparkfriend meet up.
Thanks for sharing your beautiful pictures.

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REDRUNNERMOM713 10/3/2011 12:28PM

It was SOOOO great finally getting to meet you in person!!! It's funny you said you were nervous/excited because so was I! Ha ha!! And Kyler is such a sweetie! He took some REALLY good pictures!! Maybe he has a career ahead of him. So happy his party turned out well!! That really IS rude for people to not RSVP. Manners seem to be disappearing more and more these days. WTG on your tests and paper!!! Shows all your hard studying paid off. Can't wait to meet up with you again and maybe get the boys together so they can play!!! You are SUCH a great friend and I feel so blessed to have met you!!!

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JUSTDUCKY1405 10/3/2011 12:11PM

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BOVEY63 10/3/2011 12:10PM

Awesome pics - and how wonderful that you were able to spend time with a spark friend! Also, congrats on the amazing job you are doing with your classes!

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JSPIN74 10/3/2011 12:04PM

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AZURELITE 10/3/2011 9:09AM

Great photos! Congrats on the scholarly accomplishments - what a great positive lift they've given you! Nice that you and Kelly could meet up too!
Have an awesome week!

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_LINDA 10/3/2011 12:52AM

Well done you Ace you!!! Rocking your school work with all you have going on is just amazing!!!
So glad your son had a good time, and what awesome photos!!! He should think about a career!! Imagine having a Spark buddy so close in real life! May you have many more get togethers and some fun!
Such a pretty area you live in -just gorgeous!
Keep on being amazing!!

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TEMPEST272002 10/2/2011 11:19PM

Congrats on acing your exam & paper! Woot! Kicked butt on the first two big hurdles. So glad the birthday party went well. We just ache for our kids when things like this happen & I'm glad he had a good birthday. Four is actually about perfect for numbers. If 25 had shown up... eeek!

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KANSASROSE67 10/2/2011 11:09PM

Great blog! My dream is a huge Spark party where we all get to meet for real!

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BYEFATNANNY 10/2/2011 10:15PM

Glad your son had a great time. 4 boys is manageable. I agree, what's up the the not RSVPing anymore????!! That was exciting meeting a "real" spark friend. Hope you two have a fun lasting friendship.

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THETURTLEBEAR 10/2/2011 9:44PM

Awesome pics and great that you met Kelly! Bizarre about the RSVPs though. People can sure be RUDE.

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LALASLAND 10/2/2011 9:14PM

Oh, Leslie, I LOVED this blog! Thanks for sharing it! I am SO GLAD your son had some friends show up! I always worried so much about this and sometimes, I even called the parents to see if their kids were planning to come since they hadn't RSVP'd. That was over 10 years ago, too, so it was bad then, too, I guess. People just get busy and think their one kid won't make a difference, but when they all do that, it's a disaster!

So glad to see you and my sweet friend, Kelly together! I'm glad your son took the picture! He is quite great at taking photos! I think maybe you should look for an inexpensive digital camera to get for him so he can snap to his heart's content! You never know what it might spark for him!

Oh! There's that word, SPARK! I love it!

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KJ4444 10/2/2011 8:37PM

Nice pictures! So exciting to meet a Spark friend! Wouldn't it be great if we could all meet in person?

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CRAZYDOGLADYBO 10/2/2011 8:26PM

Great pictures! I am so glad you two got to meet.

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EMOTEEN44 10/2/2011 8:26PM

Wow!! It's cool you two got to meet up!! Glad you had fun and gave your son something to do. That could be good in case he ever asks to go again. Happy 7 to him!!

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ERIKO1908 10/2/2011 8:23PM

Great pictures!! Isn't meeting Spark friends in real life awesome???? So happy for you!!

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Getting caught up!

Friday, September 23, 2011

I've got 2 of my 3 stressors of the week out of the way, thankfully! I turned in my paper yesterday, just took 1 of my exams and will be completing the 2nd one online this weekend. The prof extended the deadline a couple of days so that helped ease my stress. This school thing isn't so bad after all! I feel like I'm in my element.

I've missed being away from here and have started catching up on my blogs, slowly but surely. I've been hearing a lot of my friends talk about training or participating in 5k's lately and I think that's just awesome! I've been starting to train for one myself and have been researching events in my area. I found the perfect one but haven't signed up yet. I'm a little discouraged b/c the last time I ran it aggravated the pain in my hip and has been tender ever since. I mentioned this pain to you a couple months ago but it wasn't that bad then. I thought it was just sore from where I got a shot in my hip and possibly thought I had some nerve damage. I don't know what it is but it doesn't bother me too bad, but now that I want to train for a 5k I think I better get it checked out. It just feels like a bruise on my hip, but there's no bruise. It's so weird. Hopefully it's nothing and I can sign up for that race!

This weekend is packed full of sports for the kids and next week my son turns 7! He wants a slumber party like his sister had and I think I've lost my mind because I agreed to it! Lol! 10 little boys are invited so we'll see how many show up! I really hope the party goes off without a hitch and he enjoys his special day! Please pray for my sanity! LOL

One more thing I have to add.....the number 563727th reason I love my sparkfriends: My good friend Lou, (IUHRYTR), was kind enough to offer his expertise and edit/proofread my research paper due this week! It was sooooo nice of him to help me out like that and my paper sounded great! Thanks again Lou! Aren't Sparkfriends just the BEST?!! You've helped inspire me to go back to school AND are even helping me to succeed!! Y'all just plain ROCK!!

Have a great weekend!!

Member Comments About This Blog Post:

PCOH051610 9/27/2011 6:27PM

Wow, 10 little boys at a sleep over! Can't wait to hear how that turned out and your son will remember it forever and be thankful his mom is the best!

Glad to hear school is going so well for you. I tend to get really stressed about papers so I can imagine the stress you have been under.

Good idea about getting that hip checked out because you don't want to do any further damage. Hopefully it is "nothing" and you can do your race as planned!

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BOVEY63 9/26/2011 11:37AM

Best of luck with the paper, the 5k training and with 10 boys!

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RAINBOWFALLS 9/26/2011 12:18AM

Keep up the great work! And

for Spark friends!

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LA_MARY 9/25/2011 11:33PM

Hi Leslie!
I feel your school pain! For some reason I thought it would be great to take two classes this trimester and I don't know why I thought that...

I'm super glad for you, though, you can see this as a whole set of goals that you are accomplishing.

So proud of you and happy for you!

~ Mary

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RUNNERRACHEL 9/24/2011 3:21PM

Sounds like you're doing great! All your are doing is wonderful! I'm happy for you that you're doing what you love.

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TRUE-NESS 9/24/2011 8:37AM

Have a great weekend with the family!

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AZURELITE 9/24/2011 7:00AM

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ABB698 9/24/2011 12:02AM

Good to hear from you and glad all is well! Miss you!

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TEMPEST272002 9/23/2011 11:25PM

10 little boys... what fun! I used to love to do big theme parties for our boys. Course they can be annoying as all get out, but it's only 1 night.

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KARBIE18 9/23/2011 8:25PM

Glad to hear you're enjoying school, and doing a pretty darn good at keeping things balanced. Yep, Sparkfriends ARE the best, and I'm glad your friend was able to help. That was very kind of him. Sorry to hear about your hip - hope you're able to do the event you want to do.

Keep on moving! You rock!!
Karen

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CRAZYDOGLADYBO 9/23/2011 8:04PM

You are keeping up very well! Glad that you are enjoying school

Enjoy your weekend!

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AARONSGIRL420 9/23/2011 6:33PM

Multi-little-boy sleep over sounds terrifying...lol. I hope he has a great time. You are doing great and we are all so very proud of you!

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BYEFATNANNY 9/23/2011 3:40PM

Congrats on all your acheviements of late. You are doing fantastic. We're all proud of you and you should be too. Can't believe you can find time to squeeze in running, but it's good for stress. Hope that hip pain settles down. As for the boys, throw them outside and let them run themselves ragged. (ok I'm joking, well kinda)

Keep doin' what you're doin' you are

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_LINDA 9/23/2011 3:34PM

You are some kind of amazing going to school and trying to raise kids at the same time (where do you find the time for it all???)
I sure hope you weren't injured with that shot :( A acquaintance of mine got a shot, and they hit her sciata nerve, and she got a haematoma and horrible pain for over a year :(
Great Spark buddy you have! Don't you just love the power of the internet??
All the best with the training! I hope your hip doesn't bother you!!
Keep up the great work!!

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LALASLAND 9/23/2011 3:20PM

I only have time today to tell you that I'm super proud of you!

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DUSTYGIRL25 9/23/2011 2:58PM

So happy that your enjoying and doing so well with school. It's a tough thing going back as an adult with a family so Yay for You. And Yay for your wonderful SparkFriend helping you out.

Don't worry about 10 boys at your son's b-day party. Just lock yourself in your bedroom and study while they remodel your place! JK!

Hope you get an opportunity to run the 5k.

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IUHRYTR 9/23/2011 1:51PM

Thanks for the shout out. Happy to help. If anyone wants to learn a bit of history, they should do an Internet search for Sojouner Truth, the subject of your paper. Interesting woman. -- Lou

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JUSTDUCKY1405 9/23/2011 1:37PM

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CAALAN23 9/23/2011 12:30PM

It's so funny when people do such amazing things like 5ks, 10ks, marathon, WHILE going to school and working and then fear the multi-kid sleepover...as they should. LOL!

Glad to hear things are well, hope the hip is just a blip!

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THETURTLEBEAR 9/23/2011 11:56AM

Wow - that is awesome!! And you are AWESOMER!!!!

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CIVIAV 9/23/2011 11:44AM

Woohoo Les and Lou!

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HIKETOHEIGHTS 9/23/2011 11:41AM

You are so brave to do this & we are all pulling for you!!!

I get hip pain too & I do some great hip moves for it. If you want me to send it to you I can. I find that exercise & stretching are great ways to deal with pain.

Lou is my buddy too. He is a sweetie & we are lucky to have him. Who would have guessed we could all find such comfort in people we have never even met?

Leslie this is your time!

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