Where were we ...

.... Friday seems so long ago.

I got my self-care check list finished (without too much stress LOL).  Today, I'll finish the PHB homework on the Burn List.  Regrets, negative thoughts, limiting beliefs -- fun stuff.

I have a quick list of my goals that I will expand on this week and I'm EXCITED about doing it!  As coincidence would have it, Brooke Castillo's latest podcast basically was a personal message to me (yep, I'm that person now hahaha).  The message was essentially do the Burn List before the Goal List.  Goals with limiting beliefs swimming in the background are set to fail.  How does one know you have limiting beliefs running in the background of the goals you want to achieve .... good question :-)  You know it because you haven't reached those goals.  Bam.  Okay, fine.  I'll do the negative stuff first.

The "workshop" with Deepak Chopra is a bust.  Not anything that resonates with me.  5 minute session followed by a downloadable book - I'm up to my eyeballs in books right now.  I found some of his meditations online though and those are really good.

I finished Byron Katie's book.  It was heavy.  Having read interpretation of her work gave me a better perspective because her message can feel extreme and kind of bat-shit crazy (to me).  But, I got it by the end.  Now to put it in practice.  That's the hard stuff.

I started The Untethered Soul.  It's more of the same that I've been exploring and I like it so far.

I've hardly read anymore of Ken Follett despite liking the book a lot.  Why?  The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel.  Good lordy it's FANTASTIC!!!  I got stuck halfway through the first episode and didn't revisit it until yesterday.  Then it got super duper good.  Watch this!  Amazon Prime.  (Yesterday I ran, walked the dog and then plopped on the sofa.  PMS is kicking butt again this month - I feel yucky. I'm 5 episodes into Season 1.)

Today is a workout (probably a run) followed by cooking for FOOTBALL - football all day long and all night long.  Oh boy.  All junk food today.  Loaded tater-tot nachos (hubby's request), soft pretzels from Trader Joe's with cinnamon and sugar and hot beef sandwiches for dinner.

Siren (Skye) got adopted by the same person who had Ellie.  She's family once removed and I'm so happy for them both!

I have a full week ahead.  More on this later - I'm have trouble saying "yes" again (or at least regretting saying yes).

Go Steelers, go Jets - later gators.

Goal Workshop

I have an overwhelming amount of SELF-CARE work today.  Somehow I don't think feeling overwhelmed is the point.

Here's what's on the agenda the next few days in the self-help, self-care area.  I need to spread it further than today.  I have a big to-do list and I don't think I can get to everything in one day.

(1)  PHB homework.  It's a BURN List.  A list of all worries, self-doubt, regrets, etc that we will eventually destroying in a ceremonial way.  Take 3 of those and imagine the worst case scenario ... play it all the way out.

(2)  Goals.  I listened to a podcast on GOALS from Brooke Castillo (my new favorite - can you tell??).  She suggested a goal list that comes from abundance and not scarcity.  Huh?!?  A list of goals (things you want) is usually a list of stuff you don't have.  She suggested making a list where every other thing on the list is something you WANT, but you already HAVE.  For example ... I want to be married, I want children, I want to be a nurse.  You must put it in writing - something magic happens when it's in writing.  They must be specific and detailed.  Finally, when you read them, chunk something you WANT, but don't HAVE between 2 things you WANT, but do HAVE -- trick the brain, come from abundance.  There's more, but that's the start to her method of goal setting.

(3)  I signed up for Oprah and Deepak Chopra's 21 day FREE meditation.  It's not currently running, but they are offering a FREE 4 part workshop.  When they do the free stuff, it's only available for a week, then it goes away.  It started yesterday.  I want to listen to this too.

(4)  The recommended book came - The Untethered Soul.  I want to get reading.

See ... too much and it has me feeling stressed.  Oh, the irony.  I'm stressed because today is a "short" day.  Hubby home early, youngest here for lunch.  Tomorrow and Sunday are full of family stuff.  I don't have a lot of ALONE time over the next 3 days to do this stuff.  I have scheduled stuff during my alone time that won't allow me to do this work - bug guy coming, phone calls for rescue group, phone call with my PHB partner.  Add dog walking before it gets too hot (yep, still hot and humid).

I don't know where this wake-up-and-feel-stressed thing is coming from today.  I need to take some breaths and CHILL OUT!!

This is more likely me feeling strangled by the weekend again.  I have so many things I want to do, but so many obligations that are taking ME away from ME.  Cook for the game on Sunday (lunch, munchies and dinner), watch hubby's tennis match (for 3 hours), do a "favor" and run some errands.  Last weekend was all NOT me too.

Anyway, I didn't see this complaining post coming.  I'll do my head work and get myself in a better space.  Rally this weekend.  Carve out some ME time by prioritizing ME.  Sounds like a plan.  Happy Friday (hopefully).  Later gators.

Workout Update and MORE :-)

(1)  Still no more information on my treadmill - probably a few more weeks.  I barely remember what a treadmill does LOL.  It will be so amazing to have it back in my life.  Hello interval training - I've missed you.

(2)  Boxing.  They ADDED classes on Monday and Wednesday taught by different instructors.  I went Monday and I still can barely lift my arms.  That's what I'm talking about!!  It's put new life into my boxing "routine."

(3)  Meditation class was a bust at the new studio.  BUT, I'm a problem solver (or so it says in my affirmations hahaha). I emailed my old yoga studio and they added a yoga and meditation class.  30 minutes yoga, 30 minutes meditation.  PERFECT.  Going on Tuesday with a friend.  And she responded with the NICEST note back to me ... CONNECTION.

Now for the MORE ... in other news...

I do affirmations every day about lots of stuff, but with a focus on CONNECTION and building a strong TRIBE.  A fellow PHB person (in phase 2) reached out to me - she lives 20 minutes away.  We're going to meet in a few weeks once her schedule calms down.  I'm telling you - affirmations work!

I've been pushing the envelop with eating at night again (and having a couple glasses of wine).  Don't know why.  It's like the rebel in me is fighting (hello negative roommate).  Today, I'm cleaning up my night routine.  Enough already.

I tried Trader Joe's new cauliflower gnocchi and it almost ended my marriage.  *TMI Alert*  Gas to blow you out of the room.  Guess it was one and done for me.  Sorry, hubby and dogs.  *TMI Alert Over*

Got ANOTHER book recommendation last night.  This one from Coach Holly and when she speaks, I listen.  She hasn't steered me wrong.  The Untethered Soul  I ordered it in paperback so I can reference back more easily.  I need to finish Byron Katie first.  It's on my list with gusto now so I can move on.

My FAVORITE guru these days is Brooke Castillo.  Her last podcast, she mentioned a workshop coming up.  What?!?!  I wonder if I can make that work.  I have zero idea of cost, location or availability ... but I'm putting it out there in the universe.  I want to go!

Brooke does coaching and I wonder if I should have gone with her coaching instead of PHB.  I don't dislike PHB, but I wonder if it's too basic life coaching.  Again, 6 degrees of separation.  Wouldn't have gotten to all this without the first steps.  Need to keep away from grass-is-greener mentality.  If I want, I can do Brooke in the future and having a solid base of basics probably makes sense.

The PHB folks are going to a retreat this weekend - mostly coaches and longer term clients.  I almost decided to go, but thought I was jumping in too hard.  These peeps have been connected for a long time and I felt like I was barging in (in a way).  I'm a bit envious.  The place and weekend sounds amazing.  I can't wait to hear about it and maybe can plan to go with girlfriends at some point.  I guess I have FOMO.  (P.S. this expression annoys me - not as much as "literally" but it's getting close - I use it with an eye roll LOL.)

Dogs need walking and I need to get ready to box.  Mid-week already ... time flies.  Later gators.

PHB Update

It's been a month since PHB started.  Our call is tonight.

Here's the good, bad and the ugly so far.

(1)  I added a green drink to my day.  It's nothing but veggies, ginger and turmeric (and a lime squeeze).  Healthy.  Anti-inflammatory.  Filling.

(2)  Sometimes I add another green drink with spinach, cinnamon and organic frozen fruit pack from Costco.  Mango, few banana slices, strawberries - all measured out.  It's in the yellow bag.  It's an afternoon treat to replace snacking.  Not as healthy (sweet with fruit), but a good (and delicious) replacement.  I needed more greens in my life.

(3)  Switched from tea to warm water with lemon in the morning (with my collagen peptides).  It's acidic going down, but supposed to be alkaline once digested.  True??  Who knows, but I like it and the dentist gave it the thumbs up (worried about my enamel).

(4)  Meditation.  Most progress I've ever made.  Some would laugh at my "progress," but given it's been years to get this ball rolling, I'll take it.  I'm on the hunt for an occasional long meditation (some endurance work so to speak) but that's still a work in progress.  Haven't given up on it yet.

(5) Affirmations.  Magic.  It works.  I'm sold.

(6)  Podcasts.  This is a HUGE win.  I'm a podcast junkie now.  Get me in the car and I'm learning, growing, being a better person, laughing.  You name it.  My favorites right now are still Jen Hatmaker - For the Love series and Brooke Castillo - The Life Coach School.

(7)  Books.  Still working on Byron Katie's, Love What Is.  This weekend was busy and I missed some reading time (and I started Ken Follett too).  I have a list of some new titles too.

(8)  Negative Roommate.  I'm recognizing "her" talk and doing so much better ignoring those thoughts.

(9)  Thoughts.  I'm clearing my head of the constant negative thinking, negative loops and this is the most peaceful I've felt in a long time.

(10)  My PHB Accountability Partner.  We are less in touch as the program moves along.  It's good to have someone to talk to during the week though.  This morning is our call this week.

(11)  My Circle Group.  4 of us.  Not connecting with the other 2 very much.  Neither is active on the forum.

(12)  My Coach.  Fantastic.  I wonder if I should have had private coaching rather than group coaching.  I miss it being all about me sometimes.  I tend to get the least amount of time on the phone calls because I go last in the line up and time is pushed (we have some talkers in the group).  She goes in same order every time.

Anyway, overall review is GOOD, not great.  I'm learning a lot.  Most of my learning is 6 degrees of separation from PHB.  Someone recommended a book, which lead to another book, which lead to a podcast and something fantastic was learned.  Still, wouldn't have reached HERE without the first step with PHB.

4 months to go.  I hope we get some really inspired stuff happening.  If I reach my goals by the end (or significant progress), it will be worth it all.  This still feels like what I need to be doing, where I need to be - that's good news.

PS I was talking to a friend who did some life coaching with her paster for 6 months.  Way more expensive than this program and all phone work as well.  Maybe this price is on par with the norm.

And, as I write this, I realize I need to write out my goals.  Make them specific.  I'll hit that up this week.  You'll be the first to know :-)  Later gators.

Rain!!

Rain all week!  Temperatures in the 80s .  I'll take it.  (Only wish my treadmill was set-up - still waiting.)

We had a fun weekend.  PGA event was exciting with Tiger Woods.  I didn't take any pictures - phone in my bag, lazy present in the moment.  Here's a picture our friend took of Tiger - we were close to watch him at several points.  I'm not the biggest fan anymore, but you can't argue with a comeback like this.  I've seen him golf once before.  There is no other like him at this point.

Tiger Woods mopping the sweat.
Have to trust me it's actually him haha!!

I kept to healthy stuff and added in the non-healthy stuff.  Usually, when I am "non-healthy," I abandon all healthy so this was a change.  I made a good lunch on Friday and then we went for a hike instead of happy hour.

Don't let the long sleeves fool you - it was hot.
I'm wearing my swim top to block the sun!!

P.S. This picture reminded me - hubby and I "celebrated" 31 years since our first date.  September 23.  And it was a wild celebration - grocery store sandwiches, football and PGA on TV.  We almost forgot the day.  Love this guy (even if he drives me mad sometimes - he'd say the same about me LOL).

The ladies (no guys) went to an hour long meditation class in a new yoga studio Sunday morning.  It wasn't good.  It was suppose to be guided mediation - visualization, etc.  All she did was talk and talk and talk about ignoring thoughts that came up.  Repeating it so much there was no space to actually meditate.  The first 15 minutes was information on your body.  The total class time was less than 45 minutes.  Dang.  I had high hopes, but it's a no-go.  I can't find a meditation class locally.  I like group meditation.  The yoga studio was beautiful though.

Boxing last week was a surprise - different instructor and I LOVED it.  I hope the instructors start to change up a little.  And they added new classes on Monday and Wednesday.  This is going to be a boxing week with the thunderstorm weather (probably - unless we get some dry mornings).

Today was suppose to be a yoga class with a friend (at that new studio), but she changed it to lunch.  I had a feeling that would happen.  Oh well.  Trying out a new place that's fresh, healthy Mediterranean - so it says.  That leaves me open for a workout today or not.  I could use another rest day on my legs.  Maybe an arm lifting day with abs??  Or that new boxing class?  I don't know because I didn't have an alternate plan.    If I workout hard today, it leaves the rest of the week mixed up.  Decisions, decisions.

I'm glad to be back to my "normal" routine today.  I have time this morning to "list" out my week.  Company always has work on the front and back end of the visit.  Lots to catch up in the house.  I like people, but I like space.  I had the people, now time for the space.

Happy Monday.  Later gators!

It's MY Friday - Company on the Horizon

Company tomorrow MORNING - dang.  Probably a posting black-out until Monday.

We are going to the PGA East Lake event on Saturday.  It's a fun day, but it's going to be north of 90 AGAIN.  You feel melted by the end of the day.  The rest of the weekend is hanging out and going out to eat - over and over.

I have no idea what this will look like for me.  I plan to use my new arsenal of tools to navigate a lot of trouble spots.  Keep out of my head, keep relaxed and keep true to what-a-healthy-person-would-do.

A Little Favor was a fun movie.  Suspense, yes.  But lots of funny too.  Not a serious movie at all.  Meant to be a fun time.  Worth seeing (rental is fine though).  Won't give it away.  I LOVED the actors in the movie!

Part of my homework for PHB is a podcast by Rich Roll (second one - last week was on dairy).  His guest is Biggest Loser creator, JD Roth.  I'm not a fan of Rich Roll and not a fan of his guests (the 2 I've listened to at least).  They are condescending and egotistical.  The stories they give as examples to support their healthy vision are sensationalized.  Why is the opposite of eating a healthy, plant based diet going to McDonalds and Pizza Hut to stuff your face?  I'm only halfway through listening to it - it's almost 2 hours long.  The information on vegan or plant based diets is not horrible, but the delivery is asshole-like.  I'm surprised this group of PHB women like Rich Roll so much.  I'm not a woman's libber, but this feels like boys' club stuff.  It also feels like people who pretend to have empathy for those of us who struggle with weight/eating issues, but it's actually a disguise for judgment.  My 2 cents - my very opinionated 2 cents!!  Rant over.

Boxing today for the later class (9:30).  I'm in a force-myself-to-go mode.  I wish it was a different instructor.  I loved those workouts - this instructor is too complicated for me.  I'm still thinking about boxing long-term.  A new yoga studio opened and a friend wants to try it.  If that fits the bill, boxing is out.  If not, I think I'll go all-in and take a private lesson.

I'm phasing in a saying 'no' place again.  I don't know if it's a natural up-and-down or it's my unhealthy habits sneaking in to sabotage me.  I feel unmotivated to say 'yes' to things.  I'm going to work on this - saying YES gives me VARIETY which is an effort for me.  My default setting is CERTAINTY which gets boring.  Sometimes I say YES, but am choosing the boring, predictable option.  Try a new yoga class or go for coffee - coffee.  Make out of town plans for a hike or go for a local hike - local hike.  Is noticing the problem half the battle??  Ha - hope so!

I threw out the RX bars.  Yep - you guessed it, ate them last night again.  Goodbye RX.  We can't be friends (at least not in the Costco sized box form).  I don't trust myself today (or any day) so I took care of the problem.  Wasteful, but necessary.  No one else in the family will eat them and I know they will sit there until I finish them off.  Took charge.

I need to hit up some good attitude today.  I feel myself slipping into a bad mood.  Company is fun, but it will mess with my routine that is fragile right now.  I need the routine to hold steady for the weekend, but I won't be able to do most of the routine -- yes, a problem.  I have to get in a headspace to turn this around.  Look at it like a challenge.  Universe offering a practice session, free of charge.  An opportunity to LEARN and GROW.  Monday I will be victorious or I will slither back to confess my sins.  Ha - not exactly PHB speak!  But seriously, I'm giving it a good hard effort to get this right.

I might be able to have a quick hello before Monday.  If not, Happy Weekend - later, my friends.

In Other Wednesday News ...

I made NoCrumbsLeft TOMATO SOUP yesterday.  Lordy, it was an adventure.  So many steps, so many dishes and a HUGE kitchen mess later.

Results??  The soup is just okay (I sort of don't like it actually).  My super easy Tomato Soup is way, way, way better.  Dang!!  And I have quarts of this soup.  I'll try it again today and maybe the flavors will meld better.  I also have extra chicken stock - I guess that's good.

I bought the double organic whole chicken from Costco.  I used the other chicken for the InstantPot Chicken and Gravy from Nom Nom Paleo.  I usually do the crock pot version which is the most tender, fantastic chicken.  The InstantPot version was kind of tough and the gravy wasn't as good.

Hours in the kitchen.  Everything from scratch and it was just OKAY.  I was spent!!  Youngest liked the chicken though.

I didn't have any chicken (just a taste).  Why?  RX Bars.  Dang those things (that I bought for my son and he doesn't like them).  Guess who LOVES them?  Peanut butter and the salted chocolate.  I had one of each at 5 o'clock.  He wants to switch to Cliff Bars (yea - those give me the runs so I won't even be tempted - sorry TMI).  I probably need to let them go if I don't stop eating them.  There are 5 left (but who's counting).  The good news is I asked, "what would a healthy person do" and the answer was STOP eating them.  I stopped and didn't ruin the rest of the night pigging out.  But that was dinner - not exactly a balanced meal.

We had our PHB call last night.  Nothing earth shattering.  A lot of Brooke Castillo stuff re-worded.  Still, worth hearing and connecting with the group.

The massage yesterday was phenomenal!  She hit my glutes hard and my legs feel so much better today -- even after a run (I chose today for my rest day).  Thank you Miss April and your magic hands!

I'm a nail hypocrite.  My nails look like crap and I don't have time to keep painting them and drying them (dogs always need something while I'm drying).  I'm planning an appointment for SNS this week.  It covers me for this weekend and something coming up in October.  I hope she has an appointment available.

Today is a movie and lunch with a friend.  A Simple Favor - should be good.  I love going to the movies.  No workout today, but a few dog walks this morning.

Happy Hump Day.  Later gators.

Fun Stuff Pictures

I took some pics.  Here are my latest goodies (in order that they uploaded).

Huge metal turkey.  He doesn't photograph well, but he's cute.  Thanksgiving here I come!

Poppy and Dot.  Maybe I should have gone with the darker color.
I like t-shrits with words on them! Since I live in GA - Peachy works.

Simply can not have too many totes.  This one is fantastic!
Pockets inside too.  It's huge and fits comfortably on my shoulder.

Costco deals of the month.  $15 and $7 respectively.
Red blend that is apparently the BEST and an un-oaked Chardonnay.
The red is Opera 2015 (hard to read on this picture).

Recommended on Instagram.  Adding to a possible read list.

CHEAP aprons at Marshalls. $6 each.
Fantastic for the holiday cooking coming up.

Craft Fair find.  Vintage books repurposed for notebooks.
A kindergarten teacher makes them (of course).
One is for my BFF and one is for me ... my new quote book.

Muscle Fatigue

I've been taking a TON of dog walks lately.  Duke is "training" and needs to walk alone - Sky is building up her mileage - then repeat 2-3 times a day.  Adds anywhere from 7-10 miles (that doesn't count my workout).  Serious walking - up hills, down hills, fast paced.

My legs are TOAST.  Even after an active rest day for my legs (shorter walk and arm lifting only), I'm beat.  Should I push forward and run today?  Should I take a total rest day?

I can't tell if this is fatigue from building up or fatigue that needs rest.  I'm inclined to take a total rest day today and get back at it tomorrow with fresher legs.  My normal rest day is tomorrow so I would switch it up.  It's a hard call.  I have an hour to decide before the weather (hot) comes into play and the decision gets made for me.

Tonight is my PHB call and a rest day (slower morning) tomorrow would be awesome.  Dang - this is a tough one!

Speaking of PHB, this is the first week I have no idea what the topic is - kind of exciting.  I knew the first month's agenda from Holly, but have no idea what the last 4 months have in store.

Here's some fantastic news - adding some ME time and some FUN to the week (ahead of company), I was able to get a last minute massage for today.  90 minutes.  OMG.  My legs can't wait.  I am so in the mood for a massage today.  I have to be careful not to fall asleep.  I'd hate to miss the enjoyment!

I did some more reading at my hair appointment yesterday.  Byron Katie is making a lot more sense now.  I'm about halfway through.  Brooke Castillo based her "Model" after Katie's "Work" and I like it better.  It's simpler and more practical.  Still, it's good to read about "The Work" from the source (and more clarity as I read further).

Since my brain is stuck on workout talk today, I'll share that I'm considering dropping boxing.  Here's the deal.  The classes that work for my schedule are all taught by the same instructor now.  She's a boxer (not a fitness instructor who boxes - see the difference).  Her boxing routines are so complicated, I can't get it done.  Do I take a private lesson to figure this out?  Spend more money?  Or do I look for something else?  I could go either way.  I like boxing a lot, but I need the other instructors (they teach at night now).  The workouts were hard, but not as complicated so I stood a chance.  There is a lot of value to boxing.  Agility, brain-body connection - super important as we age.  Maybe I should take this as a challenge and go all in to learn how to box.  Honestly, my dilemma is wasting money.  I don't want to invest more only to give it up in a couple of months.  Stay tuned ... it's a cliff hanger for me too.

Off to figure out my day.  I'm really wishy-washy lately.  I'm leaning toward a run today, rest tomorrow and a massage that makes the push all okay.  See - talking it out helps LOL.  Also, today is SOUP day!!  I love tomato soup.  And I'm taking pictures of my fun finds!  Later gators.

Rainbows and Pictures!

I figured out the picture upload (like a smart person - oops, I missed the obvious!).  This week I'll take some pictures of my "finds" to share.

Meanwhile, THIS rainbow on my evening dog walk.  I almost missed it because I was doing my affirmations LOL.  I turned my head and it blew me away.  Full spectrum, full arch and so bright.  I've only ever seen one other one as beautiful.  Pictures don't do it justice, but here you go.

I posted my Sunday post this morning.  I planned to write more and continue, but I didn't and promptly forgot about it.  Since it was already written - why not.

Yesterday was another good day.  Family over for football (all the teams lost - bummer).  I got a bunch of STUFF off my to-do list for the week.  I lose Friday to company so lots to get finished before they arrive.

I ate well and then I had cheese with dinner.  Not tons, but not a sprinkle either.  I woke up this morning with CHEESE FACE.  Swollen eyes, darker circles.  It's the cheese.  Every time.  Might decide to move the cheese (ha ha) to a smaller portion.  Sprinkles, not handfuls - my new cheese mantra!!

Duke and I ran in the rain yesterday.  No wind, no thunderstorms, cool rain.  It was great.  We were soaked and Duke hated it, but too bad - I loved it.  Tons of steps walking dogs too.  My legs are tired this morning.  Dog walk and arm lifting only today.

I'm in this pattern of great days followed by less great (feeling) days.  Practice opportunities.  Yes, but dang.  I'd like a streak for more than a day or two.  Today, I need to focus hard on my meditation, affirmation and THINKING.  The morning is rough and I want something better today.  And rough for no reason.  I woke up on edge - missing my HAPPY morning feeling.

Either today or tomorrow (depends on how my day goes) I'm making nocrumbsleft.net recipe for tomato soup starting with a quick stock.  I follow her on Instagram, but grab her recipes from her website.  I have a tomato soup recipe I love (made it last week), but hers looks so good too.  Stay tuned.  My mouth is watering already!

Hubby leaves for out-of-town tomorrow.  Just me, the dogs and the kid until Thursday.  Good and bad.  More me time, but more dog duty too.  Kind of a washout.

This morning everything about ME is craving some RECOVERY.  Mental, emotional and physical.  I'm going to listen.  Add some me stuff to a busy week.  More on this later.  Some of the me-time is journaling here more.  I've been quick posting and not taking time with all my new learning and whatnot.

Showing off my picture download skill ... here's a picture of sweet Sky.  Did I post one yet?  She looks so much like Ellie.  Love this little muffin.  She fits our family so well.  If I had a fenced in yard, she'd be mine!

New week.  Working on my attitude today (it already feels a little better).  Make it a good one.  Later gators.

Football Sunday!

I'm up early (hello dogs), but I have a rushed morning so this works out well.  Football starts at 1 o'clock and I don't have any food purchased or cooked - oops.  Taco bar and dessert - easy, whew!  Kids are bringing a dip to start us out.

On the BEST note, the high temperature today is 78!  YEA!!  Tomorrow heats right back up, but the storm passing near is keeping us in football weather.  Of course, the temperature is already near the high this morning, but I'll take what I can get.

If the rain holds, Duke and I will have our outdoor run.  No sun, light rain.  The best kind of run.

Yesterday was a fun day - from start to finish.  Farmer's Market and Craft Market -first with a friend, then the kids and dogs met me there.  I got awesome tomatoes and some fun goodies.  I need to figure out the picture upload.  I actually think I'm going to need to call Apple Care - I'm stumped.

The afternoon was with the youngest clothes shopping for his job.  I haven't been to TJ Max and Marshalls in forever and I was impressed with how organized the stores were this visit.  I found some dog toys at a super great deal price (Parker's b-day is Friday and Christmas is coming folks!!).

The evening was with great friends at a farm-to-table restaurant in an old farm house - ha. I had the best drinks and dinner.  Steak, salad and veggies - but so well flavored.  The carrots were honey glazed with smoked jalapeño.  I had a vodka martini with blue cheese olives at the bar while we waited and a super good glass of cab for dinner.

I ate without guilt, normal thoughts, just enough (doggie bag) and it was a good night.

On another note, I listened to Brooke Castillo's podcast on what she learned from Byron Katie.  It helped me understand Katie's teachings and book in a way that feels less woo-woo and more practical.

Best get moving.  Happy Sunday!

Random Stuff and Happy Friday

First, a complaint.  It's SEPTEMBER and it's going to be 93 in Atlanta today.  What the what?!?!  Good lord, where is FALL?!?

This leads me to my next thought.  Workout today.  Today SHOULD be a rest day and I can feel my muscle fatigue.  The problem is tomorrow I'm meeting a girlfriend early morning for a Market Fair.  Trying to get up, exercised and to the market is pushing it - it'll need to be an early rise and shine.  I'd rather rest tomorrow.  If I choose to exercise today, I have to be ready soon because HOT!  A couple of hours to warm up the old muscles and then a workout would be more appealing.  I miss you treadmill!!

In happier news, the Universe was glad I took a good attitude yesterday and rewarded me with confirmation that both situations were actually the POSITIVE take.  All is well (as it always was) and I didn't dwell in a fantasy of negativity all day.  A win - I'll take it!

I'm meeting a friend for lunch today - high school buddy.  We meet for lunch about twice a year.  It's a good conversation and I'm looking forward to it again.

My nails are done and looking fine!  I wanted a deep purple on my toes, but it looks black after the second coat.  It's okay, not my favorite, but I needed a pedicure so anything is an improvement.  It even looks black in the sunlight.  I had a polish change on my fingers - neutral taupe.  You can see the striations from the SNS applications - like growth lines on a tree.  I think I'll keep to the regular stuff for a little while.

I started a book yesterday - sort of - if you count a couple of pages in a MASSIVE book.  Sequel to Pillars of the Earth ... World Without End (Ken Follett).  Pillars of the Earth is one of my favorite books.  I bought the sequel years and years ago in hardback. It's served as a decoration book stack since then.  Runs For Cookies blogger mentioned she's reading it and it sparked my interest again.  I barely scratched the surface - it's a long one! I have to decide if I want to read it in hardback (or pay to download it to kindle).  Book-form means to doesn't come with me anywhere (it's so BIG).  It also means that other fiction will be on the back burner for a LONG time since I'm reading through all the self-help books at the same time.  Decisions, decisions.

Sun is up.  Time to get outside (blah and ugh).  Later gators.

Thursday (aka No Title Inspiration)

The week continues to be busy - in a good way.

Half my "busy" is dog walking.  All 3 dogs need to be walked separately.  Duke is in training on his walk, Parker walks ever so slowly (poor baby) and Sky is afraid and needs attention.  THIS and hubby is out of town.  All me, all day.  Got some good steps in though.

I'm up early to hit the 7:15 boxing class so I still have acceptable weather to walk the dogs this morning.  If I reverse it, I'll never go to class.  Have to do the HARD first.

I'm ready for cooler weather, less busy week and less solo dog walking.  I'm not holding my breath on any of those yet.

I need to focus my self-confidence today.  Assuming (imagining) what someone else's actions mean is pure fantasy.  We were asked in PHB to comment on everyone's Negative Roommate assignment (there are 4 of us).  One of the ladies commented on everyone's but mine.  She also responded to everyone's comments, but mine (she "liked" it).  I'm taking it personally.  I need to stop it.  It might not be what I'm thinking (she doesn't like me) and if that is the case, it's okay.  Giving me the cold shoulder reflects more on her than me.

We also have a new member on our rescue team helping with applications.  She started training with me and had to take a break because her mom was ill.  She started back up, over my head and is training with someone else.  What?  No reach out to me - nothing.  Again, I'm assuming.  It's as possible that this person reached out to HER and offered training.  She knows I've been really busy with applications and this might be an effort to help ME.

I'm quick to assume people's actions are about me in a negative way.  It IS a fantasy.  It IS imagination.  It's equally probable that it's not about me or it's bent in a kind way.  Choosing to believe the latter thoughts makes me feel better.  It also prevents me from taking action (ignoring the person, not being as openly friendly) that actually LEAD to the first assumption.

Self-help lesson of the day!  Ha ha ha - just kidding.  But, it is something I've read in a couple of books lately and I'm going to put it into practice today.  Not only am I assuming GOOD intention, I'm going to act on it too.  Reach out to them again.  Put myself out "there" a little more with NO expectations.

If I think about the negative fantasy, it will ruin my day.  I'll play that loop in my head, over and over.

In other news, I'm going to figure out that picture thing this weekend and get back to some lighter posts with more FUN stuff.

Off to box - later gators.

Hump Day Stuff :-)

Good morning.

Wednesdays are becoming tough-ish mornings.  The PHB calls Tuesday night ends at 8 o'clock, then I text with my accountability partner, then walk dogs, then TRY to fall asleep when my brain is spinning.  Late night = harder morning.

Up anyway.  Why?  (1) Little dogs need to go out. (2) This stinky weather and no treadmill means I MUST exercise early.

The call last night was good.  We read our Negative Roommate assignments (same as the Big Snooze in the book, You are a BadAss).  Lots of honest stuff, brutally honest.  It's odd to be so intimate with strangers.  Two of the ladies I've never even spoken to directly and they are sharing heavy, heavy stuff.  My share was a little more general (I kept the specifics to myself).  Not because I didn't want to share - more that it was way too long of a story.

I'm the oldest in the group and it's interesting that a bunch of what they shared were things I dealt with at their age.  Is this all universal stuff?  Judging, bingeing, envy.

This health-life coaching is the real deal.

Today is a blah kind of day, but I'm treating it as a means to something more fun. I have a lot of Releash work to do, cleaning crew (so I'm on dog duty) and cooking dinner.  Nothing special.  Nothing fun.  I want to knock out a lot of work today, so tomorrow I can play.  Boxing (fingers crossed), nail appointment and some ME time.

I wanted to add some pictures, but it's totally different now that my computer was updated.  It doesn't give me an option to import from my phone.  Heaven help me.  WHY does technology hate me?!?!  I'll add it to my list of roadblocks learning the Universe is asking of me lately.  This might be a job for my new besties at Apple Care - help me ladies of Apple!!

One last comment for this morning.  I'm working HARD to stop my all-or-nothing thinking.  Yesterday, I had a successful moment.  I ended up eating a late afternoon snack - all healthy, but too much food - absolutely snacking-mode.  That would have given me the option to quit for the day.  Eat more, move less.  I stopped.  Just stopped.  Didn't continue, didn't beat myself up or restrict.  I simple moved on with my healthy self.

Okay, sun is up, need to get outside before I die from HEAT and HUMIDITY!  Later gators.

Whew ... My Computer is ALIVE!

I was on-and-off with Apple Care until early afternoon.  They do a fantastic job!  Something attached to my computer, created havoc and hid in so many corners that it was difficult to delete.  I had to climb the tech ladder before it could be figured out.  AND, my software updates had some sort of error and downloaded, but never installed.  That's why I had the OTHER issues.

Fun Fact:  I spoke to 4 tech people yesterday.  My computer would run an install and they'd set me up for another call to see if it worked (one install took an hour so they don't stay on the phone with you). Every single person was a WOMAN!  Go ladies in the tech field AND they were awesome!

PS They don't fix your computer in the Apple Store anymore.  They have you call tech support while you sit there.  Glad I called first.

I feel so good to have that chore off my plate!  Me and tech problems.  Not pretty.

Yesterday was a super duper productive day.  Outside run (changed things up), computer fix, errands, chores, dog training, made dinner, walked all dogs separately (training, speed and my patience dictate 3 walks).  I was TIRED last night.

My dogs have an early grooming appointment.  I debated on boxing (the 7:15 class which I always forget about).  My body needs an active rest day.  Everything is sore and my neck is not totally healed.  Best to not push so I can get back to 100% soon.  I'm going to do some abs and long dog walks.

Now that I'm feeling better, I need to get back to some FUN.  Lots of productive stuff, lots of self-help learning, etc., but I'm missing good old-fashioned FUN.  I have a nail appointment on Thursday.  Polish change on my fingers and a pedicure.  Both are sorely needed.  I postponed lunch with a high school friend last week, so this Friday is lunch - CONNECTION.  Making some plans for this weekend too.

I'm making a new recipe for dinner - not a recipe so much as cooking.  Since I have a Vitamix, I'm trying cauliflower mash.  Cooking some beef tips with gravy.  Fingers crossed it's good!  After watching Hungry for Change, I'm on a mission to get my family to eat more health inspired - not go crazy, but improvement is needed.  Add those veggies!

In other news - LOVE me some PODCASTS!  They made the car ride and the crazy evening rush hour drive doable yesterday. Jen Hatmaker is my favorite right now.  I love, love her.  All FREE ... For the Love.

I need to stop scheduling my appointments in the morning.  It rushes everything (especially since my youngest is up for work early).  Have to get moving to get those pup hair day!  Later gators!

My Computer is SCREWED Up!!

If you never hear from me again, I've lost all computer stuff!  I'm calling Apple today, but probably need to take it in the shop which means I'll probably lose all my saved passwords, links, etc.

I THINK I can get back into my blog, but I don't know for sure and I'm not about to "try" it.

Dang- it's when I downloaded the free watch for Hunger for Change (which is available on Amazon and apparently just became Prime-free too).  I figured it was safe because I trusted the source.  Now, it's a mess.

I'm not plugging in my phone to download pictures until I know it's safe.

Happy Monday LOL!!

Youngest starts his new job today.  Yea!  Excited for him.  Another step to launch!  Hubby left for out of town for the week.  Duke has his first training session today.  Lots happening.

I was re-reading some bits in You are a Badass -- particularly the parts about the Big Snooze which is her version of the Negative Roommate.  She talked about as you are getting realigned, doing the work, changing -- often the Universe seems to crap all over you, emotionally and physically -- in an attempt to get you to stay where you are.  All fear driven.  Fear of the unknown.  Fear of change.

I have most definitely been crapped on.  Treadmill, computer, son's accident, back/neck, intractable headache, grumpy husband.  All this happened when I started my Negative Roommate (NR) thinking leading up to the homework.  Interesting.

I take that as a sign I'm changing.  You can believe it's all woo woo and I wouldn't blame you because I could think that too.  Except I'm living it.  It's crazy.  The same thing happened when I was doing Whole30 coaching and realized I need to stand up for myself, say no, etc.  That week was a total crap fest - over and over.

I'm plugging along with Byron Katie's book.  It's a slow read.  I need time to take in her examples.  Sometimes I think it makes sense, but mostly I'm like HUH?!?!

Today is a power walk-the-dogs, arm lift and errands ahead of the training.  Training is an hour away (isn't everything in ATL) and about 2 hours.  It's going to take up the afternoon.  On that note, I need to get moving before the HOT (still) starts this morning.  Later gators.

Football Sunday

Instead of posting yesterday, I did my homework for PHB and wrote about my negative roommate.  It was a strange and hard exercise.  Strange because I'm talking about part of me as though it's someone else.  Strange because it felt like therapy.  Hard for the same reason - seemed like therapy and reminded me of lots of things I don't want to remember.

I guess this is the point of DOING the head work.  I actually cried when I was writing it - that SHOCKED me.  I didn't think my feelings were that strong.  I wasn't upset when I started writing.  It wasn't a sobbing cry, but quietly crying for about an hour.

The other homework was to watch the documentary, Hungry for Change.  It was interesting.  Worth the watch.  Amazon rental for $2.99.  I especially liked the end.

Update on my old body:
My back is better, my neck is still a mess.  The neck pain has traveled up my left side and all the way to my eye.  I can feel it when I blink - really weird.  I'm going to call the acupuncturist this week.  He's always booked, so I'll get an appointment in the next couple of week, just in case.  It's so issue to cancel it.  By noon, I have an intractable headache from it.  Not fun.

Steelers football starts today.  Family and dogs over for an afternoon of football watching.  This will be interesting.  Youngest doesn't "handle" watching football well and last year he was banned from the house during football game - I kid you not!!  This year, he's living at home.  I gave strict warnings to everyone.  This could go either way!

I'm not cooking any big spread for today.  My head is not up for it.  Ordering pizza and putting a few things out.  I'll eat my freezer stash.

My workouts continue to be all over the map.  No treadmill, hot weather, neck-back issues, headache.  I workout, but I do whatever.  There's no intention to my workout other than sweat!  Once my neck is better, I'll be back at my regularly scheduled workouts.  It kind of sucks.

Dogs need my attention.  More on our new foster soon.  I need to upload my pictures of her.  My computer is acting up a lot.  I need to get it fixed (either hubby or Apple Store).

Go Steelers - later gators.

I Declare a Day of (Almost) ME

This was quite a week and I'm glad it's over (hopefully).

I need ME time in a big way.  I'm not even talking about special ME time, I'm talking about my ROUTINE.  It's been fragmented and rushed all week.  It's been a week where everyone NEEDS something from me - little to big.

When I want to take time for myself (no matter how small), it's met with eye rolling and criticism.  I want to watch TV for a few minutes ... what??? this stupid show?!?!  Then everyone talks over it, giving me no consideration.  That kind of thing.  I worked hard this week for everyone else.  I'm not asking for work back, not even asking for appreciation ... I'm asking for RESPECT.

And this week I've felt yucky.  My neck and back are struggling.  I had a lousy monthly time.  I've had a headache all week from my neck and monthly.  No one wants to give me a break.  Do this for me, do that for me, do this better, be better, etc.

My workouts are stressful.  No treadmill.  Hurt back/neck.  Working out is the foundation for my day and it's not going smoothly.

Hubby is out of town for the weekend visiting his brother who lives in a group home.  I need this time to regroup and recharge.

Me, me, me, me!!!  (And dogs and Releash stuff - but mostly ME!!)

PHB is cruising along and I'll write about it this weekend.  We have our first BIG assignment about our negative roommate (NR).  I'll tackle it tomorrow.  Hopefully, I feel better and be ready to think more clearly.

I have pictures to post too, but I'm not feeling well this morning.  I might even think about going back to bed (shocker!!).  I might need to go to the acupuncture doctor about my neck.  It's really messing things up.  The idea of back-to-bed is so appealing - I think I'll give it a go.  Later gators.

Another Quickie

Long story short, eldest was in a fender bender yesterday (with his car, thankfully).  I have to drop it EARLY for repairs.  The body shop can't "store" the cars ahead of the work because of insurance reasons.  My youngest and I are managing the appointment so he can go to work.  UGH.  No boxing.  Rushed morning.  Moms are the best (am I right?!?!).

Dentist over - mic drop!  No cavities.  Lemon water pushing coffee out of my cup in the morning = less staining.  It's a win!  We talked about the acidity of lemon water (about the same as coffee BTW).  She said drink it relatively quickly and don't brush teeth for an hour and my enamel should be fine.

I'm so glad I changed up my schedule this week.  Dang, things got busy unexpectedly.  It's the theme of the week.  Running eldest around (two auto shops, dropping car at my house, to work, home from work, letting dogs out) ... took up my entire day.

After the car crazy, I picked up Siren (stupidest name ever - we're calling her Sky).  She's lovely and sweet and easy-as-pie.

Today is a shit-load of errands followed by more errands.  Another quickie today, but hopefully back at some regular posts soon.  Later gators.

Mornings

Hubby has decided to go into work later in the morning.  He still gets up at the same time though.  End result -- I have very little time some mornings to write my post, do my quiet work.  Not only NOT quiet, but conversation ... conversation about bills and house chores.

This morning is the dentist so I'm on a time crunch.  He JUST left and it leaves me 15 minutes before I need to run outside.  Ugh.  This won't be a problem on days I have nothing scheduled in the morning, but it messes up days like today.

Treadmill update - found one I like, decent price, great running deck ... on back order.  Maybe a month.  Crap.  Worth the wait though.  That's why I'm timing an outside run today.  Needs to be light (coyotes), needs to be early (dentist) and I'm going without the dog.  I'll come home and walk him.  It's horribly humid (that storm is passing west of us) and I don't think he can do the run this morning.  Don't know if I can do the run either LOL. Another caveat is I seem to be stuck in and out of the bathroom this morning - so there is a chance of no outside run. (Sorry TMI without warning.)

PHB phone call was good - more on that later.

More on everything later (tomorrow probably).  Clock says go now or don't go at all.  Later gators.

Tuesday is the new Monday

Good morning!

So much to say, so little time.  Here are the cliff notes:


1)  The lake trip was so much fun!  CONNECTIONS!  Laughs and fun and conversation.  I rallied and had a great time.  Boat ride was so perfect - music, waves, wind.

Lake Lanier - beautiful.

2)  Birthday surprise party was also great.  Family!!!  Another type of CONNECTION and it felt good.  Birthday boy wasn't surprised (bummer) but we had the best time.  This group of family is FUNNY and I laughed until my sides hurt.

Me and hubby (the others are friends of my cousin). 

3)  I'm still pushing that new treadmill interval run 10-1 ... I'm at 7-6-5-4-3-2-1.  I did it hard, fast and burned out the treadmill motor.  Time for an upgrade.  Going this week (hopefully today) to find a new one.



4)  My monthly came yesterday as expected, but she came with a vengeance.  I bagged on golf and sofa sat the entire afternoon watching Ozark (season 2).  Wow - it's great!!



5)  No boxing today because of said monthly friend.  Too crampy, too heavy.  It's my worst day today, but I'm so glad to have it moving along.



6)  RELEASH:  We're getting a foster dog tomorrow.  More on her later.  My aunt drew a bunch of cards for a Releash fundraiser - here are my 2 favorite.  She's so talented!

7)  PHB phone call this evening.  Starting the negative roommate (NR) conversation.


That's the down and dirty.  I have a jammed-up week.  I'm actually moving stuff off the calendar because I need to open more time.  I have to take the youngest shopping for work clothes, buy a new treadmill, pick up a foster dog from the city,  go to the dentist (I want to move that so badly!!), errands ... the list goes on.  I think it's Monday so I'm feeling extra behind and the week is just starting.  I feel yucky and want to go back to the sofa and Ozark - no time today though.  Happy Tuesday.  Later gators.

Lake Day

Well, our first "fun" night wasn't as fun as I expected.

My mother's husband was diagnosed with stage-3 aggressive prostate cancer (he ignored elevated PSA levels and chose no follow-up for 3 years because he was too embarrassed about the exam).  It's upsetting and that set the stage for me feeling worried and sad, etc.  We found out as we were leaving for dinner.

Then the service at the restaurant was really bad.  I've been there many times and we usually have great service.  We were there early and the servers weren't busy, so they were goofing around and NOT serving the tables.  I agree that it was annoying - overly busy is one thing, playing around is another.  They were so loud that it made it hard to talk.  That continued the tone of a not-fun night.

I had a couple of beers on tap - bad idea.  It upset my stomach so I didn't eat my dinner (I ate it when we got home later).  That made hubby even more agitated about the evening.

I emotionally ate and drank (and PMS ate).  NOT a win at all.  We didn't have a great time.  Hubby couldn't shake the grumpy mood, so everything was an annoyance (drivers, people on the street, cars parked, radio). He wasn't nasty, just grumbling about everything.  That made me even more upset and more in a I-don't-care-mode.  UGH.

Today is a new day (funny how that happens).

Green drink is happening, warm water with lemon.  Today is a rest day for working out, but I'll walk Duke and get some movement in.  Based on my mood and the calendar, my monthly can come any day this weekend.  Day swimming in a lake and who knows about my period.  Not good.

I need to rally, but most of my mood is PMS (it's a doozie this month) and I don't think much will change until IT happens.

Dang.  This fun weekend has taken a turn.  I'm going to try to turn it around to fun again.  I feel yucky - my stupid stiff neck STILL, headache from caffeine and monthly, tummy rumblings from last night, PMS sweats.  I want to stay in my pjs and watch Netflix all day (Ozark new season released yesterday).  That's not in the cards though.

Last little complaint.  It's just us and another couple which is normally perfect.  Given how I feel, the thought of carrying conversation, acting bubbly and energized ... it's daunting.  If only it would rain!! LOL.

Okay, off to rally something better.  Later gators.