Caffeine Withdrawal

Dang.  I've had too much caffeine lately.  I have an espresso maker, but it only holds one kind of bean at a time (dual chambers increased the price to crazy-town level).  With my son home, we were using caffeinated beans - but I'd sneak some decaf in the mix too.  He's been filling the machine lately so NO DECAF!  Once the beans are in the tank, you can't get them out in any reasonable way - so no exchanging between users.

With the addition of the green drink, I'm drinking less coffee in the morning.  Now I have THE headache.  I was tolerating the caffeine well - no shakes, sleeping fine, etc.  Obviously, it's effecting my system if I'm having withdraw symptoms.

I'm adding some caffeine back and choosing the long-roll reverse for a kinder, gentler withdrawal.  Just when I think I've got it all HAPPY with my drinks - curve ball.  Probably for the best - maybe it's messing with my sleep cycles.

PHB is in full swing.  Good things happening.  I'll do a post explaining - it's a long one.  All centers around their keystone question:  What would a healthy person do?  Sounds silly, sounds basic ... it almost was a reason I didn't join, but there's some really good stuff with that question.  Cliff hanger ... stay tuned (when I have the energy to put it in words!!).

Labor Day Weekend and we have plans - lots of them.  It's rare for us, but everyday is a fun day (I just wanted to make that rhyme).

Friday night : date night with hubby out to dinner
Saturday: all day with friends at their lake house
Sunday: family surprise party for my 40 year old cousin
Monday: golf

Lots of eating and drinking.  I'm not stressed about it though.  I have a lot of new tools in my box to try out and it will be a good opportunity to see what works.  Oh, did I mention, all this AND it's PMS.  Lord save me.  My goal is anything but the extremes.  No huge restriction, no huge indulgence.

It's been nice having a break from a foster dog.  Life feels so much easier.  I'm excited to get back to it soon, but a long weekend, lots of plans and no dog stuff to figure out is a beautiful thing.  If the weather would stop sucking (so hot and humid again), I'd be positively bliss.

Be safe, have fun. Later gators.

Goodies!

Here are my goodies of the month (thanks to Instagram - for the most part).  In no particular order (i.e. however they load in!!).

Smells like coconut and the beach.  I haven't had a reason to use it yet, but there are times when I wish I had a dry shampoo on hand.  The Influencer is a hair expert and this is all natural. 

Three in one photo!

The Green Drink - yummy - Vitamix 750 ROCKS!

The Hydo Flask ... I use it at night, keeps my water cold, no spill .  It's a nice size option, but I don't think I'd buy it again.  It's noisy to get the lid off so I can only use it bedside when hubby is out of town.  I have a lot of other options that work well (so this is probably redundant).  BUT, it doesn't sweat, keeps hot/cold and is a good size for ice cubes, etc.

My cute dog in the background on his chair - we both have a morning routine!

Influencer says it works like a dream!
Spray on your shirt, smooth with your hand and most of the wrinkles are gone!

No smear mascara.  Forms tubes around lashes.  
I use Blinc which does the same thing in one step, but is 3 times as expensive.
I'll give it a try after my Blinc runs out.

Necklace and bracelet organizer.
Cheap on Amazon and holds my long necklaces.

Poppy and Dot (online) - size L because M was sold out.  Could go with either size.
Love this sweater.  Light weight, cute, comfortable, pockets.

Poppy and Dot - size M and still really roomy
I hope to wear this dress this weekend, but it needs a belt - still figuring that out.
The best part is it goes below the knee (I'm 5'8")

Undershirts.  They are awesome.  So thin and light.
They cling (on purpose) but you don't even know you are wearing them.
Great for see-through shirts, sweaters, etc.

I have one more item that shipped, but not to me yet.  Some basic t-shirts that are LONG enough.  They were $7 and I ordered a few.  If I like them, I'll post with next month's finds!  I love ON-LINE shopping!  In store shopping stresses me out!!

Later gators.

Vitamix and Small Group

I am TOTALLY a green drink convert!  The Vitamix changes the smoothie from ground salad to SPECTACULAR!  Wow - so delicious!  The 750 has the pre-set programs for things like smoothies - press start and stand back.  It cleans it's self too.

My blend is ...

water
lime juice
fresh turmeric
fresh ginger
collegen peptides
a blender full of spinach

Fresh, smooth, delicious.  It's also light and something I can get behind first thing in the morning.  Open to new stuff is a good thing.  My morning drinks have changed in the last couple of months.  There's a possibility that this will replace my morning coffee - yep, it's that good!

The call was good last night.  The other 2 ladies are really nice and I think we have a good group.  There's an issue with me and the "mandatory" Fit Bit, but I messaged my coach ... stay tuned.

Being up later with the call and being stressed about the Fit Bit, left me with a horrible night's sleep and (unrelated) stiff neck.  Lordy, I hate when I sleep on my neck wrong.

I made it to boxing yesterday and it felt good.  I'm sore today (in the best way) and that means I'm absolutely cross training - yea!  Today is an active rest day which means lots of power walking - first on the treadmill with affirmations, then with my Duke dog outside.

I have an early nail appointment this morning.  Yesterday, I planned another possible round of SNS.  I changed my mind.  I'm having a break.  My nails are so long and bothersome, I want a break from the heavy feeling.

I'm finishing Gift from the Sea (somewhat reluctantly) and I started Byron Katie's book.  I'm only a couple of chapters in, but I don't get it yet ... 4 questions that change your thoughts ... but I don't see it.  Hopefully, it will become more clear as I read on - it's such a popular book!  Unlike Brooke Castillo who makes sense from sentence one, this one is keeping me saying "huh?!?!"  I need a light-hearted fiction book soon.  I need to start searching.

My neck is making it difficult to type (hold my head up) - ugh - it's going to bother me all day.  I'll end on that fun note and see you tomorrow.  I'm trying to get a post together of my fun finds (aka copies from Instagram Influencers). Later gators.

It Changes in a Heartbeat

I finished my post yesterday, laced up my shoes for my run and got a frantic call from the youngest - he'd forgotten paperwork for his big interview.  My morning of ME ended up getting postponed while I brought him the materials.  BTW - last interview I reminded him to bring things and I got my head snapped off.  Interesting fact we reviewed later ... parenting never stops!

All my "see the good, be the good" was out the window with my rush to get there and get home.  "Letting go of negative thoughts" -- not applicable either.  Oops.

Boy, I was in a crapped-up mood.  When I got home, before I could do MY care, I needed to dog-walk because of the heat.  I almost gave up on ME stuff, but I switched off the phone, did my affirmations, did my hard workout (7-6-5-4-3-2-1) and turned it around.  Whew.  It was afternoon by the time it was all finished, but I'm glad I pushed myself.

A little win, a little loss.  (BTW my youngest got the job - LAUNCH is happening!!!)

Today is the first small group phone call with PHB.  We meet the other 2 ladies in the group.  I'm curious about the dynamic of the group and the tone Holly will take compared to individual coaching.

I MIGHT box today.  Very, very last minute decision.  My ankle is feeling rough this morning after the run yesterday.  I'll see if it will work itself out, otherwise it's ARM day in the basement!

This week I'll get a post going of my latest goodies compliments of my favorite Instagram Influencers.

My reading has stalled a bit - about halfway through Gifts from the Sea - it's sweet and nice and feminine.  I think after reading so many self-help books, this one is too gentle - if that makes sense.  You read an entire chapter and by the end think - oh, that's a nice thought.  You aren't hit over the head with eye opening revelations.  Apparently, I like my self-help a little rougher LOL.

I have a nail appointment tomorrow.  IF my nails seem thin, I'll take a break.  If they are healthy, I'll give it another go.  No surprise I've become addicted.  My nails are so long right now and it's uncomfortable to type.

I need to go finish my PHB homework on meditation.  That went by the wayside yesterday after my "interruption."  It's a busy phone day today (call with Darcie, call with group and rescue phone calls).  I'm talked out already!!  Later gators.

P.S.  I listened to Glennon Doyle yesterday and she talked about when you walk into a room, instead of thinking "here I am" chose to think "there you are."  Be curious about people, ask questions and LISTEN.  It's a good way to feel comfortable in a room of people.  I remember this as I was typing about how much talking I'm doing today ... my goal is to add some LISTENING in as well!

Vitamix

You can't liquify a salad (aka spinach leaves, veggies) without one.  They are EXPENSIVE.  I said noway.

Then ...

My BFF gave me a ton of uses for it.  Fun fact - she's been trying to convince me to get one for years.  She knows what I cook, how I cook and she told me all the ways I will love it.

You can guess the ending - it's coming this week.  I got the 750 on Amazon (Heritage color on sale).  Total with tax was just over $500.  Ouch.  My Ninja blender will go to my youngest when he moves out.  He makes smoothies all the time and will enjoy having it.

Next issue - I don't like PHB combination for a smoothie.  It's too HEAVY - fat, protein, fruit - it's too much first thing in the morning.  I talked to Darcie and she broke down and got a Vitamix (it's why I reached out to my BFF) and she's NOT putting in the fat and using a very small amount of fruit.

Here's a combination I can get behind.  WATER, lime (or maybe lemon), turmeric, fresh ginger and spinach.  I will concede that I eat lots of veggies, but am behind on the green leafy ones.  They aren't a daily addition.  If it doesn't work for breakfast, I can see this being my afternoon drink.  I love GINGER especially.  All things good for you and Darcie said the blender makes it smooth and so easy to drink.

I AM standing my ground on the Fit Bit - if for no other reason than my principle - waste of money since I have my watch.  So there!!

Lake swim was fun, picnic was fun.  Next time we need to bring a folding table and chairs and it will be great.  ALL the dogs swam (some reluctantly).  The water was warm and lower so the "beach" area was back and made for easy wading in the water.  I didn't get pictures - dang because they were all so cute!

My eating yesterday was all-day-snacking.  Not good.  Too liberal and it left me feeling blah.  Healthy foods, but I still need to stick MOSTLY with the 3 meal Whole30 way because that feels the best for me.  Constant eating doesn't work for me.  Take note, no guilt, make the change ... easy said, harder to do, but I'm working on it.  Some of the problem was trying smoothies with almond milk.  I threw the rest away - not for me.

Did I mention I have a new internal running goal?  It started when I hurt my ankle and needed slower intervals so I tried something new.  5-4-3-2-1.   Each interval is shorter and faster.  It's so much harder than I thought it would be.  Then I wondered if I could do it from 10 eventually.  The last 2 times I did it from 6-5-4-3-2-1 and thought I would die by the end - perfect.  Today I'm going to try from 7.  I might have to slow it down toward the end, but I'll see.  I warm up with a mile walk (and affirmations).  It's basically pre-fatiguing before the faster intervals.  I have no specific time frame to get to the 10, but it's a goal to work toward.  Then I'll do a dog-walk.  Tomorrow it's back to boxing (that's the plan as of now!!).  PS The hardest interval is always the 3 minute one - I have no idea why.  I guess it feels sort of "long" and it's also sort of "fast."

This week my calendar is bone dry until the weekend.  I like it!  Working on ME stuff, rescue stuff and getting the house in order.  No contractors, no lunches, no appointments.  I will add a nail appointment later in the week - clicking too much and my nails feel heavy, but nothing else on the calendar.  Time to give this workout a go - funny how I feel a little nervous before a challenging workout.  Later gators.

The GREEN Drink

Oh boy.  YUCK.  Apparently in order to turn salad into a smooth liquid, you need a Vitamix.  I half drank, half chewed my smoothy.  The taste was great, but the texture was a solid NO.

I want to use use up the ingredients I bought, so I'm having smoothies and the green is matcha only.

I tried it though!  I also learned that while lemon is acidic outside the body, it metabolizes to an alkaline substance in the body.  Also, all the ingredients of the green drink are designed to be alkaline in your system.

P.S. Pet peeve - it doesn't change the pH levels of your blood .... blood is TIGHTLY regulated (7.35-7.45).  It bugs me when people say is turns your blood acidic or alkaline -- not possible.

My guess is this will be a few days of using things up and the smoothy will go away.  Maybe I'd be convinced to try a green drink (from powder form) if Whole30 recommends one.  I did one years and years ago on recommendation of Tony Robbins - it was like eating grass clippings!  I eat tons of veggies, but probably not enough green leafy ones.

Yesterday's run was good - my legs are tired today.  The Farmer's Market was the best one in weeks.  I got some major loot - candles made by a 9 year old (fantastic scent choices), turmeric/ginger/lime juice (amazing), dog treats, cold-pressed coffee and mini-pies for the guys.  I passed on the veggies because I have a house full of them.  I wanted to get tomatoes, but they didn't have any heirloom ones.  The weather was perfect. We ended up having the kids over and doing a full grill-out on the deck.  Fun night!

Today is a lake swim with the dogs.  We're attempting a picnic lunch too.  Oh boy.  It will be interesting.  I made asparagus and turkey roll ups, deviled eggs and we're picking up sandwiches (for them, not me).  Chips, snacks, etc too.

Busy morning.  I was solidly asleep when my alarm went off!  I need to wake up and make my smoothy!!  Later gators.

Meet Darcie

We talked for over an hour and could've talked for double the time, but I had lunch plans.

We have tons in common.  Podcasts, books, running, stomach issues, goals.  She's younger by at least 10 years (probably 15) ... "in her 30s."

I enjoyed the conversation and then had a bit of a panic attack.  Lessons learned over the years about jumping into a relationship too quickly.  It felt like a BIG JUMP.  Personal super fast!  I guess that's the point.  Then lots and lots of texting all day yesterday.  Maybe this is the beginning get-to-know-you phase and it will quiet down.  Maybe it's nice if it doesn't quiet down??  I don't know.  I'm looking for CONNECTIONS and now I'm fighting against it.

Fickle ME.

She likes to ask me what I'm eating for dinner - detailed reporting.  That's already old.  But I'll be a team player.  Maybe this is what SHE needs.  And she's a super strict eater - organic, homemade everything, no alcohol, micro label reading person.  It feels like PRESSURE to have a "perfect" meal rather than accountability.  Again - this is probably just the initial phase of sizing each other up and figuring out a rhythm.  I need to remember to BE MYSELF and not pretend.  Her situation is not mine.  We can be supportive and be different.

The beginning of things is scary, a little nerve-racking and it should feel that way if it's something different, out-of-the-usual-box.

I decided to try the green drink stuff.  I got some unsweetened almond milk, non-dairy yogurt, unsweetened coconut water and I'll experiment with options.  I'm not having it for breakfast, but will with lunch.

My concerns over PHB continue to be some of the MANDATORY things.  I got a pass on weight and measurements, I got a pass on the green drink for breakfast, but I don't think I'm getting a pass on the Fit Bit.  This annoys me.  My watch is FAR, FAR more accurate than any Fit Bit I've used before.  I don't need an extra thing on my wrist that I need to charge, etc.  I don't need to spend money on something that is of NO VALUE to me at all.  I don't need "motivation" to move.  Period.  The rationale is they can't sync up the apple watches.  I don't care.  Some people have to "correct" the step count because the Fit Bit didn't register enough on their walk (they know the distance they walked).  Exactly my point!!  I'm going to ignore it and see if anyone notices.  Short of them kicking me out of the program and refunding all my money, I don't think it's possible to MAKE me.

Do I sound like a child?!?  All the woo-woo stuff, I'm all onboard with doing.  If something makes sense for ME, then, yep.  I'm happy to try something new - evaluate it's worth.  I already KNOW the Fit Bit doesn't work.  The watch shows me my steps (I AM participating) - why do I need something that shows me my steps WRONG?!?  Bio-individuality - they preach it - I'm exercising it.  (I guess this is a hot button for me - didn't realize the rant would be this loud!!)

Overall, I'm happy with the program (even if it sounds like I'm not).  The real test is the small group calls on Tuesday.

Anyway ...

Gift From the Sea is getting better, but I'm not finding it as "beautiful" as I expected -- yet.  Darcie encouraged me to read some of Girl, Wash Your Face.  I STILL don't like it.  It doesn't resonate with me.  I hear what she's saying, heard it before, but heard it said in a much better way.  My opinion, for what it's worth.

Today is an outside run with Duke.  I'll do my walk warm-up on the treadmill so I can do my affirmations.  Trying to focus on affirmations, "handle" a dog AND run doesn't work very well.  Instead of grateful and inspired, I'm annoyed.  Not the vibe I want LOL!

The rest of the day is "work" stuff.  Pay bills, make adoption calls.  Hopefully, I'll have it all finished by mid-afternoon and can enjoy some of this low humidity weather - on the deck, reading, kombucha in hand.  Sounds like a winner to me.  Better get planning dinner too - you know that question is coming!! (Ok, I sound bitter - more of a JK than a bitchy comment - I think.)

Happy Saturday!  Later gators.

Friday Updates and more PHB

It's going to be the PHB channel for at least a little while -- sorry ahead of time!

Drum roll ... my partner is assigned AND it's the partner I was hoping to have assigned to me!  I guess it wasn't a huge stretch - we are the 2 on EST (the others are on the west coast).  But, I wanted the pairing because of the interests she listed on her profile.  We talk this morning and I'll be giving you all the scoop next post.

Yesterday, I had another marvelous massage and learned April is pregnant and heading on maternity leave in a few months.  Well, dang!  I better get using up the massages since I'll probably wait out her maternity leave.  It's her 4th - I hope she comes back!!  I didn't ask her yet because it probably would have been rude to make her happy announcement all about ME!!  And, I bet as she gets bigger, the massages will change.  Well, double dang!!  It was good while it lasted.

After my call today, I'm headed to Zoe's Kitchen for lunch with a friend.  Hitting a few days of Whole30 because I've been eating my food freedom a little too liberally.  A last hurrah before PHB?  Maybe - in a way.

I'm reading Gift From the Sea and it's kind of just okay.  It's been a general introduction and now the chapters are getting more specific and, I hope, more poignant.  It's a small book (but I haven't read a lot) and it's one of those books you need to read slowly, every word.

Poppy and Dot.  My new favorite online clothes shopping.  The prices are reasonable, the clothes are fun, the fit is great.  It's the store of one of the online Instagram people I follow - Tara Thueson. She's mormon so the clothes have that extra length in areas I need - not old lady like at all though - it's hard to describe.  Shipping is included and it arrives SUPER FAST!  She always includes a fun-sized candy too.  I'll show you my finds next week.

Our little rescue, Releash Atlanta, that a year ago kept 10 dogs in foster care, currently has over 50.  Yea, but ouch.  We are SLAMMED!  It's been sucking a lot of my time.  Also, training some help and that takes time too.  It's nice to have a break from fostering.  That said, there is an old lady who's in bad shape and needs a foster.  She's on my radar.  The issue is she might be here for a very long, long time and that's not what we want right now.  I hope someone else steps up!  She's blind, bald (skin infection), tumor (still figuring it out), and HW positive.  Bless her sweetness.

My ankle is turning the final corner.  I should be able to get back to boxing next week.  It bothers me here and there, but not all the time.  I think giving it that extra rest did the trick.

I'm officially addicted to the SNS nails.  I want to have them ONE MORE TIME before a break.  Sound familiar?  Yep.  Every time I think about a break, I have something coming up and I want nice nails.  Next week is 3 weeks and they already feel long.  I'm clicking again!!  Plus, did I mention I bit my thumb on accident ... good lord ... I put something in my mouth and my thumb was still there.  It cracked the polish all over the thumb nail.  I think I was eating a cucumber - not even something exciting,  I might wait until after Labor Day and take a break for a couple of weeks and then go again.  I hope I can last another week!

That's the Friday scoop.  Workout is lots of walking, arm lifting and then more walking-the-dogs.  It's really cool and crisp out this morning.  Could this be the start of something wonderful?  I'm cheering you on fall - I'm ready to say good-bye to summer. (Of course, I never even like saying hello to summer!)

Later gators.

First Phone Call

Okay - so here's the scoop.

The call was interesting.  Parts I really liked and connected with and some I didn't - what I expected. There's a lot for people who are new to anything healthy, so some of the stuff is very basic.  Jennifer acknowledged that though and my small group with Holly is a group that's a bit further in the healthy food and healthy movement basics (I think).

What I need is the healthy mindset stuff.  She started that conversation too in a very general way.  Everything can't happen minute one.  I'm happy she's strict on certain things - excuses, not doing the homework each week, not participating, etc.  Otherwise a big old group of women is going to run amuck in no time flat!  Tough leader is needed sometimes.

I think I'm getting my accountability partner assigned this week too.  That's the area I'm most unsure. I know I like Holly and I know a decent amount about PHB from the group chats, but I don't know the people in my group at all.  I need to trust it will be the very person I need (but I also hope we like each other, she's a good participant, etc, etc ... I'm greedy!)  There is already a partner I WANT ... but I need to trust the process and trust Holly when she pairs us.

The homework is hefty - and that's good.  I'm paying a lot for this program and I want to LEARN.

I have a few issues that are a bigger deal for me and some that I need to get over myself and participate.

 -- Weigh and measure - nope.  I gave that up long ago.
 -- Green morning drink which is a sugar-fruit bomb.  Also, nope.  Too much sweet for me.
 -- Fit bit challenges.  Ummm.  I have an apple watch which is far more accurate.  I don't want to be in the fit bit "hustles" ... I move and exercise well already.

And then there's the stuff that I need to put my big girl panties on and do what she says.

 -- Download a video to my phone "I am" affirmations.  I just started my OWN affirmations - ugh.
 -- Add Headspace meditation app on my phone.  Did it before, and it wasn't my thing AND I think I'm finally in a good meditation place.  I don't want to go backwards and I only have so much time I will dedicate to meditation, so which is more important?!?!

But, there's stuff I'm happy to do

 -- drink water with lemon and add collagen peptides
 -- do the journaling exercises
 -- breathing exercises called tactile breathing
 -- connect with our small groups
 -- be an active participant in the group chats (post, respond, share)
 -- there is another meditation class coming ... that sounds new and helpful!

I've oscillated between being honest and pretending -- especially in the beginning when I'm saying 'no' to so many things.  For example, if the task is to meditate with Headspace for 10 minutes, I can meditate MY WAY for 10 minutes, but say I used Headspace. I can say I'm drinking the green drink and maybe have it once in a while instead and EAT my greens with breakfast without the fruit component.  Pretending, but still participating.  I don't know.  I should be myself though - if not here, then where?  Maybe Holly will have a different take on some of this.

This is what I'm talking about regarding being further down the HEALTHY road.  I've passed some of these tasks already and I don't want to go backwards.  I have a long way to go in other areas though and that's where I'm ready to start at STEP ONE.

It's exciting!  Stay tuned ... later gators.

Project Healthy Body

It begins TODAY!  Project Healthy Body - 5 months of life coaching.  Lifetime of change??

Today's a big conference call with tons of people and next week starts the small groups.  I'm curious what our "homework" will be this week - we were told to take notes!  I imagine it's all about weight and measurements, food logging, etc ... all things that I'm not participating in (already discussed with Holly).  I hope we also start the mindset work too.

Either way I'm excited.  I had a dream I missed the call - guess it was on my mind.

Speaking of missed - I started writing my post yesterday and Releash stuff went crazy so I never finished it.  An unpublished masterpiece it was NOT!  So I deleted what I started and moved on.

And another miss - meditation and affirmations.  Oh boy.  It was a super busy day on the phone, out with a friend, even bedtime was hectic.  I started and got interrupted and never finished.  Back on my bike today (that's one of PHB favorite expressions - already towing the company line LOL).

One of the focuses of my affirmations is BETTER CONNECTIONS, better experiences.  Out of the blue yesterday, I got invited to a wreath making party from work friend - all the girls from work are going.  Yea!!  CONNECTION!! (It's not until October, but still.)

Crazy Rich Asians - finished the book AND saw the movie. The movie changed some things and I actually liked it better than the book (shocking, I know).  Of course, the book had more detail and subplots that the movie had no time to explore, but the ending was MUCH better in the movie.  It was cheesy and predictable, but a quick vacation from regular life.  We went to the $8 matinee and I wouldn't think it's worth the full price ticket at night.  Best for a fun rental. (And not a comedy as implied by the movie press - a few lighthearted moments, but not laugh-out-loud.)  The cast is a good one though!

It's been a while since I've been out to the movies.  Here's a side complaint observation.  30 minutes of previews!  That's way too long.  The first few previews were good and directed to the audience of THIS movie, then 20 minutes of dumb preview after dumb preview.  No wonder people arrive late.

Time to start a new book tonight - Gift From the Sea.

Workout today is a RUN.  I need it.  I ended up taking another day off yesterday to try to heal my ankle.  I need to get back to boxing, but it's stuck at this point and still too unstable to bounce around.  I'm sure it's from too much running and walking on it.

Remember Sugar - little old gal looking for a place to stay last weekend?  She got accepted to a dog retirement home.  The entire house is converted for old dogs.  The property is amazing.  Volunteers spend 24/7 with the dogs.  Those who can, travel to nursing homes and hospice places as therapy dogs.  It's a slice of heaven for these senior dogs with nowhere to go.  She was happy the moment she arrived.  Restores faith in good people.  It's called Frankie and Andy's Place.

Okay - I'm already getting phone calls this morning.  Who calls this early?!?   Nothing before my workout though - that's the rule. Gearing up for a busy day, best get to it.  Later gators.

Monday with a Capitol 'M'

Dang - Monday is hitting hard!

Waking up is a herculean effort.  My body is TIRED!  Rest day for sure.  I pushed back the rest day from this weekend to today (AC repair so have to be ready early) and I feel it this morning.  My affirmations with have to be still today - I can't even muster a power walk.

Yesterday was fun but I was spent by the time dinner happened.  The menu was casual and easy so I thought nothing of it.  Easy - yes, quick - no.  Each part had lots of steps and I was over it by the time dinner happened.  Plus, I couldn't eat the main dish, so I had to cook for me too.

The spreads turned out fabulously!  I sent a box home with the kids and a box into work with hubby and still tons left.  When I was making the cookie base, the dough was hard to resist AND when I was chopping the chocolate candy for the toppings, it was hard to resist too.  I used Brooke's method and noticed the urges but didn't fight with them.  I'll have to watch - Christmas cookies will be a tough bake this year.  I love me some cookie dough!!

Looks like the movies are happening on Tuesday instead of Friday.  That means Crazy Rich Asians finished tonight! That's going to be a push - I'm just over halfway.  I need to do some day reading today!!

As I mentioned, AC repair today so an all day event at home.  That's okay though.  Tons of Releash work and READING to do!

I really need to rally some energy this morning.  I'm a pile of mental and physical mush.  On that note, I'm calling this post extra boring and saying c-ya.  Later gators.

Whoosh ... and the weekend is almost over.

This was a super quick weekend.  I keep checking that it's really Sunday.

The Farmers Market was fun, but a bust on the veggies - got there too late and it was picked through.  But ... we found some new coffee, gluten-free dog treats and an APPLE PIE.  It's a local pie company that is delicious - known for their crust.  My youngest gave me the thumbs up to buy instead of bake.  Since my eldest's girlfriend doesn't like fruit (texture thing), I'm making Pioneer Woman spreads this afternoon too.  Basically cookie dough with chocolate melted on top and chopped candies.  Easy and delicious.  Pie and cookies - none for me though (continuing the no desserts trial).

I'm having my first go at the new coffee.  It's a bean from Nicaragua - like a blonde espresso.  It's okay, has a bitter finish, but a nice flavor (fruity).  Yep - you can really tell when you drink espresso black.  Costco Kona Blend is my favorite.  I absolutely love it (and it's cheap - go figure).

I ended up running Duke later in the morning yesterday.  With the overcast skies, the temperature stayed descent even though the humidity was killer.  I figured the coyotes would be hiding that late. Today is a long dog-walk and arm lift.

I turned my mood around pretty quickly after the meditation and I held it strong the whole day.  It helped to have a good workout out - a healthy win and a help in the mental department.

I almost forgot to think about (aka plan) my drinking options for today.  After a little thought, I decided NOT to drink.  I need to be on my game with the new foster in the morning and I still feel like I might be getting sick (probably allergies), so I don't think it's worth it.  Plus, every time you "practice" not drinking, you are working on those neural pathways.  Double win!

Here are a few more of the family photos.

This is my favorite.  I love this dog!

Feeling uncomfortable and it shows on my face!

Steelers!!

My boys.

Helping Duke with his outfit change.  Love this one too!

Walking the dogs "candid."

The kids didn't know they were in the photo :-)

I'm happy with the photos.  Of course, I'm looking with critical eyes on my dress and I look wider than I wanted, should have turned more to the side, blah, blah, blah.  Don't want to be a critic, but it's hard.  I'm glad we took the time to do these.  It's important and I love my sweet family.

This week is aiming to be a good one.  A/C repair, massage, movie with a friend, first PHB call, foster delivery.  I thought we were heading into the last week in August, so this feels like a bonus week to me.

P.S. I should be on track to finish Crazy Rich Asians - did some good reading last night.  It's a total junk, easy read and absolutely what I want to read right now - fun and fantasy!

Until Monday ... later gators.

Up and Down and Up and Down

Continuing the rollercoaster that is life (my life).

My doing something FUN yesterday switched to doing something GOOD.  A very old lady foster needed a place to sleep for 5 days.  Her owner died ... shelter... adopted and then RETURNED.  Poor little lady.  She's been at the vet getting checked out, stuck in a small cage, upset and nervous.  How could I say no?  She's heading to a senior rescue group on Tuesday that keeps older dogs until the end.  They visit nursing homes and hospice as therapy dogs.  How amazing!!!

Anyway, she's not as easy as I expected.  We have broken sleep, poop on the rug and my dogs are edgy.  She doesn't bark but cries a lot.  She's also a bit thick in the middle which makes her quite hard to pick up (coincidently her name is Sugar - kind of fitting).  Her legs are super sort and she has a lot of problems with her back legs - NO STAIRS.  But she wants to climb up them.  Oh boy.  It's a little rough so far.

She looks little here - a well angled photo takes years and pounds off LOL - you're welcome, Sugar!
But how sweet is that face?!?

Hubby agreed to this temporary situation (probably because he's out of town - LOL).  And then we take our break.

Some EXCELLENT news ... Jack's trial is over and he's adopted.  Fantastic!!  Way to go Jackie-boy!

My "equation" work (reframing - Brooke Castillo) is being put to the test.  Some rescue work stuff has me feeling something - annoyed, judged - something not fun.  Went to bed with it last night, woke up to more this morning.  Here's the thing - it's not actually about me, but I'm taking it personally.  So I reframed it.  Plugged the equation.

Today is feeling HARD - mentally, emotionally, physically - and I'm bummed I have to WORK at it again today, right from minute one - no flow of the perfect kind of day.  So I'm reframing THIS too.  Practice is good.  Doing the work when it's hard is the test - the real deal.  Thank you for the opportunity to PRACTICE this work.  Reframed.

Here's some more good news -- drive to the vet yesterday was accompanied by another podcast.  It's the best way to kill time - OMG!!  I actually appreciated the traffic and red lights - ha ha perspective.  Jen Hatmaker again!

I need to get reading Crazy Rich Asians because I want to see the movie next week, but last night was hectic and no reading at all!

My goal this weekend is to continue my plans and not hibernate because I have a new foster.  A couple of times hanging in a massive crate isn't the end of the world and she'll be fine.  I'm still planning to hit the Farmers Market (unless the rain comes - and it might!) and the grocery store so I can get baking the apple pie for tomorrow.

I'm completely perplexed about a workout.  I need a rest day, but I need a workout today.  I'd try for a run outside with Duke, but that coyote is still around (the big one who attacked the small dog with the owner standing there).  It's a real concern.  The attack last weekend was at 8 am in the morning.  I don't know if I can muster a treadmill run and a long dog-walk too.  Duke needs an outlet this morning as well.  Of course, RAIN can change all of my plans anyway.

Family pictures have arrived! (I just got an email!)  I'll share some more soon! I like most of them.  The ones with hubby and me trying to be loving are strange and awkward.  We don't do PDA very well!  But the rest are great!

This is US!
Duke, Parker, JuneBug, Zoey and their people!

It's getting late so I need to figure out this morning.  The only thing I know for sure is I MUST do my meditation/affirmations or this day will turn to a mushy, pig-out, catastrophe of a day!  Later gators.

What's Up for the Weekend

First, let me say I had a great day yesterday (one of the wash, rinse, repeat days).

Massage - oh so good.  I booked another for next week.  I still have 10 in the "bank."
Closet - finished!!  Looks good, feels even better.
Book post - finished and posted :-)
Chores - yep, list is complete.

And ...

... Exciting news about PODCASTS.  Apparently, that app on my phone that says Podcasts is exactly how you find and listen to podcasts.  Well, duh.  No wonder so many people listen to them - it's EASY!  That's how I got my closet cleaning finished - Jen Hatmaker For The Love podcast with Glennon Doyle.  Good one BTW.  Now I'm hooked.  Now I never want anyone to drive with me in the car.  Podcasts all the way!  Makes me want to go get stuck in traffic!

I wonder if they're all free?  I need to check into that, but I have enough now to get me started.

As far as this weekend, here's the scoop:

I have no idea what to do today.  Hubby is gone for the weekend and I have the bed to myself - yea!  I want to add something fun to my day, but with my dang ankle, I'm not sure what's an option.

Saturday is the Farmers Market.  I think I'm going with no dogs.  Just relaxing, walking, cold brew coffee and some fresh produce.  Then I need to hit the kitchen to bake.  Probably an at-home movie or starting a new series on Netflix.  Have you heard of Insatiable?  I hadn't, but someone recommended it.  I don't know what it's about, but heard it's wildly inappropriate and funny - right up my alley.

Kids are coming over Sunday for dinner and apple pie and dog visits - triple fun.  I need to decide by Saturday if I'm planning to drink (Brooke Castillo's podcast #116-118).  I'm leaning to no, but I want another day to think about it.  I want to think about it, but I'm not anxious about it or obsessing over it -- this is such a great tool for me.  That's actually why I haven't taken a minute to think about it - I'm totally relaxed that either decision will be okay.

All is subject to change if Jack needs to be picked up from mid-town.  Fingers crossed - you got this little man!

I'm continuing my work and my faith that I can build a stronger tribe, deeper connections, better experiences.  Faith in the universe coming through is the biggest challenge for me, but I'm feeling good about it.  It's new to me and I'm still learning how to manifest it without forcing it or feeling anxious about it - faith that I'll figure it out.  See ... that FAITH thing is a big deal.

Yesterday, I ended up running a couple of miles on the treadmill in a progressively faster push until the end was fast (my version of fast!).  Then abs - yuck, but necessary.  Warm-up walk before and a dog-walk after.  Back to the unknown today.  Probably a leg lift day with a long dog-walk.  I'm trying to give it rest, but I really, really, really want (and need) to workout.  It's ever-so-slowly improving.  It hurts when I walk or run, but it doesn't seem worse after as long as I limit myself a bit.

I have a couple of new shopping finds (thanks to me and thanks to, you guessed it, Instagram influencers).  Once it's all arrived, I'll do some pictures.  Fun stuff!

Happy Weekend!  Later gators.

Book Reviews and Recommendations

Let's chat books - in no particular order:


Self Coaching 101 - Brooke Castillo

I've talked a ton about this before.  Short, simple and so thought provoking.  I'm using her technique regularly and it makes a difference.  It basically an equation that sorts out thoughts, feelings, actions and results.  You can plug in any part and back-fill the rest to what you want.   When you're stuck, running negative loops, feeling a feeling you want to change, wanting different results - bam.


You are a Badass - Jennifer Sincero

I've also mentioned this gem too.  Another book filled with interesting ideas.  Lots are repeats and that's okay.  Hearing something again with a different voice is a good thing.  I don't think there was anything new in the book, but I liked the repetition.  Her reference section in the back is great.  I bought the hardcopy just so I could use that section (without losing it in my electronic reader world). Quick, easy to read chapters.  It's a good one!


Girl, Wash Your Face - Rachel Hollis

This was a non-starter for me.  From the intro and chapter one, I kept hearing her say - I'm not as wonderful and perfect as you think I am.  I have no idea who she is and I definitely didn't think that about her.  It hit a self-serving note to me - humble brag of sorts.  It comes recommended and I might give it another try at some point.  I judged it early and, to be fair, I was probably ready for a self-help book break.


Love What Is: Four Questions That Can Change Your Life - Byron Katie

I keep hearing about this book over and over so I finally listened and bought it.  It's on my COMING SOON list.  I'd never heard of her and now I can't stop hearing about her.  Looking forward to this read.


Think and Grow Rich - Napoleon Hill

This book too!  EVERYONE and I mean EVERYONE references it.  I have a feeling it's a more complicated read, but I'm now a proud owner of the book.  Also COMING SOON.  I'm more curious than anything about why it's so amazing and stands the test of decades of time.


Gift From the Sea - Anne Morrow Lindbergh

Also COMING SOON.  Also a book that stands the test of time.  I'm hitting this one next!


Crazy Rich Asians - Kevin Kwan

My current read and I'm loving it!  Funny, easy fiction.  It's become popular again because of the movie (which I heard about after I bought the book - dang).  I want to see the movie, so I'm hitting the book hard.  I know, seeing a movie so close to reading the book isn't a great idea, but I want to read this book AND I love the cast of the movie.  Some funny folks.  I could use a good laugh!  I'll get it both ways, I guess!


The 100 Year-Old Man who Climbed Out the Window and Disappeared - Jonas Jonasson
AND
Eleanor Oliphant is Completely Fine -- Gail Honeyman

Two "different" kinds of read that I finished recently.  I enjoyed both and if you are looking for something that hits a different note, give these a try.  The 100 Year-Old Man is a bit like a Forrest Gump.  Eleanor Oliphant looks depressing on the surface, but is funny and up-lifting.


The Amazing Adventures of Cavalier Clay - Michael Chabon
AND
Small Great Things - Jodi Picoult
AND
All We Ever Wanted - Emily Giffin

All recommended.  All on my list of COMING AT SOME POINT.  I have them as samples in my kindle so I don't forget.  When the mood strikes, I'm ready!


Lisa Genova

My favorite author.  You'll recognize her books.  The earliest are the best, but I've liked every single one.


I can't wait read something - books make it better!

The Jeans

Drum roll ...

THE jeans finally fit.  At least, they fit in the morning (cauliflower dinner later - probably not!!).  I was beginning to wonder if somehow they magically shrank in my closet.  I'm a couple of weeks away from wearing them.  I still need some wiggle room since BLOAT happens a lot for me and I could potentially bloat my way out of them eating an apple LOL!

I was perfect on the Whole30.  I've been far from perfect after Whole30.  Still -- progress.  Keep going, keep moving forward.  Learning how to live somewhere other than the extremes.  Black-white-gray.  I want to live in the middle.  Dang, it's so hard.  That's my work lately.  PHB should help (pretty please).

I have a list for my book post, but I've been totally lazy about starting it.  It's happening slowly, but it's happening.  Cleaning out my books got me all excited to talk about BOOKS.  I miss my bookclub.

No work on the closet yesterday.  The day was busy, I felt yucky, but I'm tackling shoes today.  I did a big Goodwill run yesterday - that felt cleansing LOL!  I'm almost finished and it looks (and feels) so much better already.

Today is MASSAGE day.  Sadly, my ankle is still wonky so maybe no massage for my left leg or maybe she can "work" it to help the healing ... as long as I still get my long, wonderful back massage!!

I have no plan for a workout which is unusual for me.  My ankle hurts and I need to rest it, but I still want to work out.  Yesterday was a power walk on the treadmill, dog-walk outside and arm lifting.  That doesn't leave much of a choice for today.  I need to think about it.  I feel better than I did yesterday, but still run-down feeling so intervals are probably the wrong choice for my ankle and my body.

The good news is my mood has lifted.  Ovulation finished?  Meditation/affirmations? Self Coaching 101 equations?  Take your pick, but I'm glad it's gone for now.

Our ladies gathering at the lake this weekend has been cancelled.  Weather, host is overwhelmed, some people couldn't come.  Bummer.  I was looking forward to doing something BETTER ... better experience, better connection.  It's been moved to a weeknight gathering around a kitchen island.  I'm exaggerating a little, but that's basically the night.  I said NO (politely with an excuse).  Not worth it.

I'm in the process of letting go of some of those experiences and some of those acquaintances to open up for BETTER experiences and BETTER connections.  It's hard to trust that I can let something go when there is nothing there to fill it ... YET.  Faith that the better experiences will come is a leap for me.  I'm believing in the process and having faith it will happen.  Maybe not on the timeline I want, but it WILL happen.

Later gators.

Ready for some Woo-Woo?

After my meditation-affirmations and a workout, I decided no-go on the Market, I'll stick to organizing my closet and I headed on my long dog walk.

During the walk, I was trying to figure out what else to add to my day to make it feel good since I had hit a mood wall the night before.  Nothing was a great option because of my ankle (no foot massage, no pedicure, no hike, no dog park) so I decided to focus on making a CONNECTION somehow, someway during the day yesterday.  I walked and did affirmations and focused on adding PEOPLE CONNECTION to my day.

Sorry this is so long BTW ...

When it was time to turn around on the walk, another person came up on us and if we turned around we would've been walking together.  That annoys me (when people do that to me).  I didn't want to do it to her, so we continued on down a new path (new golf course hole).

When we got on the path, I could see a person through the trees and she waved.  I was annoyed because I was doing my affirmations on CONNECTION and this was the second interruption.  Turns out, it was a friend I've tried to get to know better a number of times and her dog.  We stopped and talked for 20 minutes and the conversation instantly went DEEP.  Talking about her miscarriage 10 years ago, etc.  We ended up walking the dogs together until we got to her house.  PS the dogs got along great.

When we left, I started my affirmations and then it SMACKED me -- that was a CONNECTION.  Good lord, I almost missed it and almost focused on annoyance instead of opportunity.

See the woo-woo?  Dang.

In other news ...

Closet is coming along.  I'm not enjoying doing it at all, but progress.  I have 2 (maybe 3) more organizational chunks to finish this week and then see-ya until next year!

I've been in a mood about doing rescue work because we have 9 people on the team and only 3 of us are doing any work.  It's leaving far too much for the 3 of us.  I decided to work 2 hours a day on the applications and then I'm finished.  I let the team know that's my limit and I'm going in with a better attitude.  I shut myself in the office and focus on the task instead of downstairs where so many distractions interrupt (especially now that youngest is home).  I used Self Coaching 101 equations technique to figure out how to make it mentally manageable -- it worked (so far!!).

Today is cleaning crew, youngest has a phone interview and my rescue stuff.  It's an arm lift day - my ankle is at a standstill on feeling better.  I need to give it some rest days.

I'm up super early because I feel like I'm getting a cold.  I'm blowing like crazy, sneezing, etc and I didn't want to wake hubby.  I hope it's just an allergy spell, but I'm feeling pretty crappy.

A bit more woo-woo for you ... I'm focusing hard on building-my-tribe.  Leveling up on my friend situation.  Don't get me wrong, I have great friends, but I want to add more friendships that are aligned with the focus I'm working hard to figure out.  This is a foundation of Project Healthy Body and a big revelation in the work from Brooke Castillo (on drinking less -- the night isn't boring because you aren't drinking, it's actually boring -- get better experiences and people).

I plan to continue the affirmations toward this goal, but I've worked on this before without much success.  That was part of My Happiness Project year.  I pick one of Brooke's podcasts to read each day.  Today's was on giving up and acceptance ... one of her examples was making new friends.  Another SMACK in the face.  Yep - I'll keep pushing on -- spelled out in black-and-white, all for my benefit.  Thanks :-)

Later gators.

When the Going Gets Tough ...

Yesterday evening was kind of a crappy one.  My mood took a dive, I ate more than I needed to (not horrible, but not my best) and my stress level climbed.

I used the new techniques (true test when life gets hard-er) and it helped.  I noticed what was happening, stopped the eating, took a dog-walk and put myself to bed (to meditate before reading - you know, feel the feelings).

Another point from all my learning is to figure out what happened when things weren't the best.  So my analysis of yesterday is this ...

Ovulation (it's like a mini-PMS for me these last few years)
Jack (not adjusting well YET and my heart is breaking for him)
Rescue work (frustrations all over the map lately)
Tired (yesterday I was bone tired all day - I didn't need to eat, I needed to rest and sleep)
Disappointed (I decided to put myself out there and it didn't work out - friend was busy)
Disappointed (my ankle still hurts too much to box)
Nervous (youngest has 2 interviews this week and I'm nervous for him)

All of this came to a head in the early evening and I let it get to me - lesson noted.

Otherwise, it was a good day.  HVAC came EARLY!  Yep, the allusive and rare FIRST appointment.  It was a majestic thing to witness!  Unfortunately, we have a broken unit and need to wait for the fan replacement to come in - hopeful it was caught before more damage.  It's the basement unit so my treadmill run is going to be a sloppy, sweat fest!!  Even basements get hot and humid in GA in the summer!

I cooked yummy food (love the InstantPot) and we had a good lunch and dinner.

I organized my books (see last post pictures).  That felt fantastic.  I'm a pretty organized person, but about once a year, things feel messy and I do a clean-up.  We are at messy and the clean-up is going well.  Closet starts today - in stages because it's overwhelming otherwise.

I'm thinking of doing an occasional book post - a review of what I've read (if I'm reading enough to post about it).  I back-burnered the next self help book and started a fun read.  I'll work on that post this week and get to my reviews.  I have a list now, so it makes sense to post about it.  I'd like to see it in list form so when people ask me what I've been reading I can actually remember.  I might include recommendations I have to reference later too when I can't find anything to read!

There are a couple of movies coming out and I want to see them in the theater.  It's been FOREVER since I've been to the movies.  More on that later.  I'm going to wait for the initial reviews before I decide if it's worth it.  And, I go by myself (often) because why not.  I'm not brave enough to go Friday/Saturday night, but an early matinee mid-week is a fun escape.  IF Jack stays, it's such a nice break to have freedom to be out of the house more.  My dogs are fine being home for longer stretches and I don't need to worry about them getting too rough with each other.

I was thinking about going to a big indoor market today (because of my new found freedom with no foster dog).  It has every produce imaginable, cheap bulk spices, fun food you don't see everywhere, amazing seafood, meats, cheeses, etc.  It's about an hour away though (isn't everything in ATL??).  I asked a friend if she wanted to go (creating more connections - part of my learning!) but she's away this week.  I was kind of deflated.  She responded late and it felt strange to ask someone else that last minute so my "connection" plan went out the window.  I don't know about going today now.  I slept later this morning and have stuff to do. It will depend on my mood after my meditation and workout.  If I feel the blahs, I'm going (need to push through) or if I feel excited about going, I'll go.  If I feel more in the mood to tackle my closet and do my housework, I'll postpone it.

It's 8:30 already - I slept until 7:15 (the no-foster pattern LOL).  Time to get the old bottom up and moving.  Time to get my head in a better space too.  Later gators.

Shopping Goodies!

Here's a few pictures of the goodies from my shopping days.  Some days the shopping gods are smiling on me.

Poppy and Dot.
It's a wrinkled mess since I slept in it LOL, but super comfy and relaxed fit.

Poppy and Dot.
Looks really cute on!  It's a kind of slinky material, but not clingy.

New necklaces.  I love both.
I wore the one on the left for pictures.  The one on the right was a back-up.

Perfect summer bag.  I've wanted a straw bag for years and I love a round bag too.
It has a shoulder strap, but I like the small handles.

_____________________________________________________________________________



Making room for my book shopping!  My books were a hot mess, even though most of the books I buy are electronic.  The clean up felt great.  Tackling the closet in stages next.

These books are from my nightstand drawers.  I have a problem!

Messy shelves.  I tackled them and they are organized and wonderful now. I forgot an AFTER picture though.
I moved 2 shelves worth to another bookshelf and added the scattered books I collected from all over the house.

Meditation and More

Let's start with Jack.  He's out on a trial - not a home run, but there is hope!  The dogs weren't loving each other, but the peeps sure love Jack (maybe now Peanut!).

I stayed for Jack's visit about an hour and for some unimaginable reason, they had no air conditioning on - hello, we live in Atlanta and it's August!!  Ceiling fan and doors/windows open.  I was a sweaty, melted mess by the time I left and mentally exhausted.  Hubby and I passed on dinner so no big test for my new Brooke Castillo method.

However, I did have a moment of wanting to go home and open wine (stressed, tired, melted), so I used the method for that moment.  I observed the DESIRE from the outside, noticed it and then ignored it.  I came home to a bottle of cava as a thank-you from the kids for the festival tickets.  No urge to open it.  Whoop whoop!

Can I dare say I'm starting to get the hang of this meditation thing?  I meditated an additional 2 times yesterday because I was stressed and needed to quiet myself.  I actually WANTED to do it.  Just a quick thing - some breaths and some focus, but still!  I'll take it.  This is ME who could barely manage 2 minutes a few weeks ago.

I finished You are a Badass and promptly ordered it in paperback.  I like her reference section a lot and wanted to be able to reference it easily.  I think I'm going to do a post on some books this week.  I  want to chat about it, but time is pressed this morning.

Why pressed?  HVAC service starting anywhere between 8-12.  Don't get me started on the 4 hour window only to have them show up at 2 o'clock.  I need to walk Duke and get showered so I can wait around all day.

We have a warning in the neighborhood about walking little dogs.  A coyote attacked a small dog yesterday with the owner present and also killed a deer with no fear of the humans trying to stop it.  Animal control is involved and plans to trap and re-home him (not kill).  We have coyotes but they usually are afraid of people and quite small.  This one is big and bold.  Duke and I are modifying our run/walks until this is over.

Today is a REST day.  I planned it because of the HVAC service and now I need it because I overdid my treadmill run yesterday.  My ankle is hurting this morning.  I have a new workout goal I'll tell you about soon.  It was born out of the need to modify with my ankle injury and I realized it could be a fun challenge.  Stay tuned ...

This week is organize week - or prep to organize for this weekend.  Jewelry, books and my closet are all out of hand and I want to clean up, clean out and get things pretty again.

Time is up (and I have so much to say!!).  Some of my fun stuff arrived and I need to take pictures of it.  That will also be an upcoming post - SHOPPING SUCCESS!

Later gators.

What an EXCELLENT Day!

Yesterday was one of those days I'd love to put on wash-rinse-repeat.

First pictures.  Hectic, crazy but I held my shit together.  Didn't let the moment get ruined by I-told-you-so, etc.  I could have gone there - I almost went there.  Did we leave on time? Nope.  Did everyone take care of their own stuff?  Nope.  Was I the one having to run around because of both of those things? Yep.  Did dogs on my lap wrinkle my dress?  Yep.  But I didn't let it get to me.  I actually asked the photographer to take some candids of the chaos because that is our life - 5 dogs, 5 people later.  It was exhausting - the dogs were dead-to-the-world on the way home!

It was worth it!  I controlled my mood when I couldn't control the situation and the result was a fun time and a crazy memory of a day.  REMEMBER this FUTURE ME when I'm in full spazz-mode over something I tried to contain and control, but couldn't.

Then an afternoon of being productive.  Grocery store, some cooking, some chores, rescue phone calls.

Here's the second great part of yesterday.  I put Brooke Castillo's method in play and IT WORKED!  Again, honeymoon phase, but I'm excited and a believer.  I decided I could have 3 drinks (we were going to my son's for a drink ahead of dinner, then out to dinner).  I had ALMOST one glass of wine at his home (we had to leave and I hadn't finished it - it tasted great and I enjoyed it a lot) and then had no interest in any more.  What?!?!  Not pretending I had no interest either, the real deal no interest - I actually planned to have a glass with dinner, but I forgot.

For dinner, I substituted a salad for the rice.  A good salad with dressing and dates and nuts (not boring at all) - lots of fat, but not that feeling of carb-coma after eating.  I had hummus with veggies, olives and some feta to start.  Stayed clear of the pita because of gluten.  I was full so I got a doggie bag for 1/2 my chicken.

I didn't think about it or stress about it ... just easy and relaxing.  You have no idea how good that feels - I'm ALWAYS stressed about it.  Either stressed about not eating or guilty because of what I did eat.

I have a lake day with girlfriends coming up next weekend and had a moment of wine-panic (what am I going to do - should I be the driver so I don't drink, should I use the dogs as an excuse, should I leave early) and then I remembered the new method and I'm FINE.  Again, ACTUALLY fine, not pretending I'm fine but underneath I'm stressed about it - honest to goodness fine!

Another test tonight.  We are going out to dinner (assuming Jack stays the night) and I decided ahead (24 hours) that I won't be drinking tonight at all.  This is the other side of the method.  How to not drink when I don't want to drink.  Stay tuned ...

Later gators.

Say Cheese ...

Up at 4:30 this morning, hitting the morning routine so I can manage 5 adults and 5 dogs and STILL look presentable.

Picture day is here!

Here's some quick scoop.

Jack's meeting was FANTASTIC.  He's meeting the other dog Sunday night.  We had such conflicting schedules this week (between the 3 of us), so I gave my Spanish Wine/Food tickets to my eldest and his girlfriend and hubby and I are taking Jack for his overnight with a possible new family Sunday.  I'm a bit bummed to miss it, but this is important.  As long as someone is enjoying the tickets (and they aren't being wasted, it's okay).

I listened (i.e. read the transcript) for crazy interesting podcasts.  Remember The Life Coach School  ... check out #116-#118.  It's about how to manage DRINKING LESS.  Not giving up drinking.  Not a 12 step program.  It's for someone who has a desire to drink less and finds that difficult.  It's totally fascinating.  I read all 3 podcasts again this morning (you can scroll down the page and the transcript is there for reading).

Sometimes I want to drink less.  It's not that I'm drunk and going crazy drinking.  It's more that I drink for reasons that I don't like ... I want to relax; I need to be more fun; people will think I'm boring; I NEED a drink; this night is boring.  You get the idea.  That doesn't sit right with me.

Brooke Castillo's method regarding lessening-the-desire is something I've NEVER heard before and it's incredibly interesting.  Of course, I'm trying it immediately.  P.S.  It's the same method she uses for sugar overeating.  Anything that you do or consume that has a undesired over-desire or craving.  It's about managing those cravings, not giving up the action.

I will say that it beats against the philosophy of Whole30 a little.  When you think about it, there are similarities between her ideas and Whole30 (don't feed the craving), but the method of doing it is different.  Whole30 says you decide in the MOMENT if it's worth it.  Brooke says you decide AHEAD of time if and what you are drinking (very specifically) and she makes a compelling argument.  Whole30 deciding-in-the-MOMENT is great for things that don't hold such a big DESIRE ... do I want some rice, do I want the cheese, do I want salad or the steak, do I need to eat the entire plate of food, etc.  Alcohol and sugar are the things that are harder during the moment to regulate for ME.

I'm implementing Brooke's ideas for the alcohol (since it's meant for the BIG DESIRE things) and keeping Whole30's for everything else. (I'm still on my dessert experiment until January - so I'm not including sugar.)  I'm really curious if this will help.  She says it best and over 3 podcasts so I won't delve into the details ... way too much to thoroughly explain.

Time to get moving this morning (bummer - I could talk about this a lot more - can you tell I'm excited?!?!)  Later gators!

Ooops ...

I didn't plan to post the MANTRA.  I made a change and hit the wrong button.  I guess that's one way to get over the hesitation - thanks Universe (or my rogue mouse scroll).  I started to deleted, but, then what the heck.  It's not THAT personal!!  It feels good to repeat it during the day - especially in the morning.  I can't name a guru who doesn't recommend affirmations or incantations or prayer or whatever you call it.  Time to see if it works.

What did work was calling the Shopping Universe to help me yesterday.  First store, second dress and FINISHED.  (And the first dress was a serious contender.)  I forgot to ask the Pricing Universe to go easy - it was a whopper of a bill, but, oh well.  Pictures to follow in a couple of weeks.  I hope it photographs well.  Peach/pink print, v-neck, high waste and shin length.  The other dress was navy blue with lace, beautiful sleeves, below the knee.  It fit EXACTLY what I wanted but the part by the hips was wide.  I'd need a thick belt for it and I had no intention of having to search for something else.  It was so pretty though, I'm still thinking about it this morning.

I'm convinced that in order to find dresses that cover (i.e. below the knee, shoulders) you need to pay significantly more.  If it covers the knee, it has spaghetti straps.  If it has longer sleeves, it's a mini-dress.  Think royal family.  Those dresses are pretty and flattering.  I'm not dressing for modesty, I'm dressing because that looks best on me.  A little leg, a little arm, a little chest.  It's so hard to find!

I also picked up a few other "treats" for me since I was having such good shopping karma.  I'll take some pictures today and post them this weekend.  CUTE accessories!

Today is all about Jack.  Grooming appointment (he's going to hate it if his nail trim was any indication LOL).  Then he meets another couple this afternoon.  Come on little guy - let's do this!!

Our big guy fell down the stairs 2 days ago and now won't come DOWN the stairs.  He freaks out, shakes, flattens on the floor frog-style.  The problem is he loves to go UP the stairs.  It's not fun trying to get a hundred pounds of crazy dog down the stairs.  It took me and my son 30 minutes this morning.  This happened a couple of years ago too.  He needs to get over his fear and he'll be fine.  I bought him booties for traction - we'll see if that helps.  He is my baby and it breaks my heart he's so scared.

I'm almost finished with You are a Badass.  Review to come.  I have ANOTHER self-help book in the cue.  Again, I'm taking a page from Tony Robbins and Jim Rohn - keep reading!  Also, none of my fiction books are pulling me in at this moment so I'm sticking with the self-help until I want a break.

My ankle continues to get better each day.  I'm still respecting the pain and going easy, but the end is in sight.  It's been a week today.  I think Tuesday boxing will be fine. Yea!

Pictures tomorrow are a relatively big event to coordinate 5 people and 5 dogs (Jack is going and we'll have her take some pictures of him alone for his new family).  It's about 90 minutes away and we all need to stay 'pretty' during the car ride and dog walk, etc.  It's a challenge, but as long as I look okay - I don't care.  Kidding, but not kidding.  My idea - my work - it's all about my hair LOL.  I'm glad we are doing it again.  It's worth the work.  The morning will be busy though.  Glad all hands on deck to help out.

My eating was healthy yesterday.  Pretty effort-less again too.  PHB focuses a lot on getting off the all-or-nothing train (I have a lifetime riding pass).  If I can get kicked off that train, I'll be a happy camper and this program will be worth every stinking penny.  PS prepare yourself for lots of PBH posting when this first starts.  I'll share and overshare and over-think --- as I do.  It starts in a couple of weeks.

Workout today will be a combo cardio-lift-dog.  I don't need another rest day since my workouts have been reasonably light.  My legs are nicely rested (a little stiff from lifting still, but rested).

HAPPY WEEKEND folks - let's have a good one!

Mantra

I am open to this day.
I am open to learning and growing.
I am open to seeing the good and being the good.
I am grateful.
Help me SEE my path and walk through the fear
I CAN fly
I chose healthy
I chose to honor my body
I chose to feel well
I chose happy
Thank you for this day

Shopping Day

Dang.

StitchFix was an utter fail.  I asked for dresses and got all casual shirts - really?!?  So today has become the dreaded SHOPPING DAY.  I'm not a fan of shopping when I need something.  I need to figure out where to head ... mall, shopping plazas, etc.  I  might make the switch from dress to jeans and a blouse.  Maybe - so confusing.  Shopping for clothes in a store is NOT my superpower.

Speaking of jeans, I tried on THE jeans last night because why not.  I got them up, buttoned and gun-to-my-head could wear them in public with a long shirt.  But, probably not a good idea.  The muffin top was the real-deal and I might be afraid of splitting them if I bent over LOL.  Progress though.  Surprisingly since the last 2 weeks happened.  I know I've been off-the-wagon, but it wasn't a total wash.  Healthy foods (mostly), too much food though, add some alcohol, repeat that too many days ... but still my body responds.

Yesterday was a total healthy day - without any effort - yes, I said that and said it in BOLD.  You read correctly. The kind of day I wish for every single day (if only).  Was it my new MANTRA?  That would be amazing.  Probably a little -- the honeymoon phase of my new MANTRA.  AND ... I went to Total Wines to stock up.  Kid in a candy store.  Got some new interesting wines in fun bottles.  Nothing triggered.  I thought it will be fun when I get to try some of it.  Well done, ME.  This is the kind of day worth repeating.

Speaking of my MANTRA, I tweaked it a little more yesterday.  I will share it, but it feels oddly super personal.  I'm embarrassed to share it even thought I share most everything here.  It's still in the tweaking phase so I'm buying myself a little more time.

Project Healthy Body is winding up for the start.  I'm liking it more and more.  Thank goodness - it wasn't cheap.  One of the early projects is to name your Negative Roommate who lives in your head and says crappy stuff about you all the time.  I had a few name choices I was trying out - I can't remember the entire list though. "Mallory" won.  She has been named.

I also named the Super ME.  I don't think that's part of the project, but it's a Beyonce thing - Sasha Fierce.  When I run a hill and start to tire out (for example), I cheer myself with "go Chrissy-girl."  Part of my name (which I don't think I ever mentioned before).  I pep talk myself with the Chrissy-girl name for lots of things.  Anyway, I tell Mallory to shut up and cheer on Chrissy-girl for making healthy choices.

It's funny because this boarders on silly, yet I share it and I'm doing it.  But the MANTRA feels embarrassing.  I'm a strange complicated girl.

Workout today is some easy cardio.  I'm still nursing my ankle.  Some treadmill walking, light jogging and then dog walking outside.  I'm stiff from a heavy lift session yesterday.  I hope to be back to boxing next week - I miss it.

I am praying to the Shopping Gods for some quick success.  Lord help me.  I need to find my girl-card and be a shopper today.  Online shopping is my thang, but no time for that before Saturday.  Is this a call for Chrissy-girl?!?!  Just kidding, but still wish me luck.  Later gators.