It's all CHANGED!!
First, my BFF is sick and canceled her trip to Atlanta. Sick enough to cancel her business meeting too. Feel better, my friend. I'm bummed because I was looking forward to hanging with her and having fun for a few days.
There's a flip side too. I have so much to do and this opened up my schedule to get some important things finished. (I'd rather have spent the weekend with her, but since I don't have a choice -- I'm looking at an upside.)
Today, I'm meeting with the fence company -- I'm going to have a fence FINALLY! That means no boxing. Workout schedule flipped again, but I'm able to take my favorite Saturday class now. My body is happy to have a rest day. Also, nail appointment moved to Saturday. I need SNS for all the house projects or I'll have nothing but broken nails.
Friday, hubby works from home and we are meeting with the realtor for THIS house. Fingers crossed. I feel like it's a huge unknown and this will help figure out what this side of things looks like. If we didn't do it Friday, it would have to wait for 2 weeks based on everyone's out-of-town schedule.
I had a dream that I made a HUGE mistake getting a white kitchen. Hand to God, I couldn't have told you the color of the kitchen until someone pointed it out yesterday. My mind said it was pretty and that's all I noticed. I've always wanted a light kitchen and now I'm mildly panicking. Good lord - get a grip!
Remember how I've said letting go is hard for me -- letting go of anything, pretty much. Letting go of the things I love about my current house is bothering me. This is a good lesson -- I need the practice. Change is okay. I'm NOT my house - it's just a THING.
I made LISTS yesterday -- 5, I think. Things I need to do. Things we need to remember. I feel immensely better. I have a schedule to declutter. I have a list of things to start pricing (refrigerator, closet organizer system, etc). I'll gain another list once the projects start for this house.
What I know about a To-Do list is, yes, I love scratching things off -- who doesn't?!?! More importantly though, it helps me organize, stop decision fatigue and relax that I remember what I need to remember. Even though the lists are HUGE and plentiful, it's so much more relaxing to have them down on paper. I have a plan plus 2 pretty folders to keep it all organized.
Quick note about decluttering -- this is the first time I don't need to stage a house to sell. We'll sell it empty. I want to organize and declutter before we move though. It makes good sense. Much less pressure since I don't need to stage things.
My No-Buffering check box is working solidly for me right now. I wanted to fall deep into snacks and wine last night -- stress, change, disappointment, tired, emotional. Instead, I headed to bed and read, drank tea and cuddled with my dog ... and checked that little box!
Have a great day - later gators.
Thursday, January 31, 2019
Wednesday, January 30, 2019
No Snow, No Surprise!
Only rain -- I'm gloating in all my right-ness!! This picture made me LAUGH -- wish I had been this clever :) "Joy of a SNOW DAY in Atlanta"
I signed our house contract - OMG so exciting. And still got a Trader Joe's run in -- not as exciting, but made for a yummy lunch. I got the smoked salmon (not the sliced kind, the regular hunk of salmon) which I had over riced vegetables. I tried the fresh bagged mix - broccoli, cauliflower, onions, carrots. It was tasty to eat (stinky to cook though).
The Gretchen Rubin webinar was a bit of a bust. Technical difficulties made it "full" and many (including me) couldn't watch. After about 20 minutes, we were given a number to telephone and listen. The administrator promised another live call and the webinar replay to be scheduled asap. I think the value in the program will come from the monthly materials she posts -- interviews, videos, articles. Even the Q&A I got to hear were all BIG things -- serious changes and sweeping overhauls. That's not GR-like. She kept saying that and trying to bring it to simple, fun things (directing the serious issues to other resources). It's the first run at this program, so who knows if it will be what I'm looking for -- $10/month won't break the bank.
February's topic is ENERGY. That fits well with my needs. I need to brainstorm some fun and simple things to try to increase my energy. The big ones I already know -- sleep well and exercise. I'm looking for something to handle the slump moments. She had a list of easy suggestions. I have a few videos to watch too. Stay tuned.
Since we're talking GOALS, I mentioned I needed to make my RH goal-I'm-doing-now more specific and measurable. The dream I chose to make into a goal and focus on currently is ... I am free from BUFFERING.
(Buffering is a Brooke Castillo term meaning using something to mask a feeling -- bored, sad, stressed, etc. Often food, alcohol, shopping -- the usual suspects!)
(If you want to know about RH and her daily journal I'm using, RISE podcast #72 explains it all. She reads the introduction to the book so you can do it in a regular notebook or on a piece of paper daily.)
Anyway ...
I'm "checking" off the day if I don't buffer and adding the checks at the end of the month (and calculating percentages). This way I can see improvement or not. It's working well to remind me I WANT the check mark.
Buffering is something specific. It's NOT going out to eat and having a drink -- unless I'm doing that for emotional reasons. It's not a diet. Planning to go out for the evening and having a couple of glasses of wine is DIFFERENT than getting to a party and fast-drinking a glass of wine because I'm nervous. That's buffering. BTW, my buffering is always food and alcohol.
Buffering is NOT something that deals with emotion in a positive way. A way you don't regret. Going for a walk, meditation, reading, listening to music. You get the idea. P.S. Of course, allowing the feelings too.
It's been working well. TEST TIME starting tomorrow. My BFF is in town for business and coming to me Thursday evening until lunch on Saturday. My family goes skiing leaving Saturday for 5 days (left alone with my own refrigerator!!). Oh, and the Super Bowl. This could be a catastrophic dive into WINE and CHEESE if I'm not careful. Moving stress has me primed and ready and opportunities to overindulge are EVERYWHERE.
I'm making the plan Brooke Castillo style. Pre-making the decision 24 hours in advance. Tonight I'll have 2 glasses of wine. Tonight I won't drink. Tonight I'll have up to 3 glasses of wine. I decide ahead so I'm not responding to an urge, I'm thinking clearly about my decision. The catch is you can't drink MORE than you plan - period. That's supporting an urge (continuing the habit) and BUFFERING. I'll do the same with food, but not as specific since I don't know where we're eating.
This means I need to decide TODAY, what I'll be doing tomorrow. Since I'll be driving to dinner, I'm planning ONE glass of wine. Now it's declared hahahaha! (This doesn't mean I HAVE to have wine. I can choose nothing too. Can always be less, never more.) No indulgent dinner either -- something on the healthy side (ie no splurge on pizza or pasta). I need to feel well this week and I know what gluten does to my mood and energy.
Time to get ready for the gym (man, I hate having to go everyday). I can't wait for my leg to be fit to run. I walked the dogs a bit and it still hurts. Dang and double dang. This one is a pisser.
Later gators.
 |
I signed our house contract - OMG so exciting. And still got a Trader Joe's run in -- not as exciting, but made for a yummy lunch. I got the smoked salmon (not the sliced kind, the regular hunk of salmon) which I had over riced vegetables. I tried the fresh bagged mix - broccoli, cauliflower, onions, carrots. It was tasty to eat (stinky to cook though).
The Gretchen Rubin webinar was a bit of a bust. Technical difficulties made it "full" and many (including me) couldn't watch. After about 20 minutes, we were given a number to telephone and listen. The administrator promised another live call and the webinar replay to be scheduled asap. I think the value in the program will come from the monthly materials she posts -- interviews, videos, articles. Even the Q&A I got to hear were all BIG things -- serious changes and sweeping overhauls. That's not GR-like. She kept saying that and trying to bring it to simple, fun things (directing the serious issues to other resources). It's the first run at this program, so who knows if it will be what I'm looking for -- $10/month won't break the bank.
February's topic is ENERGY. That fits well with my needs. I need to brainstorm some fun and simple things to try to increase my energy. The big ones I already know -- sleep well and exercise. I'm looking for something to handle the slump moments. She had a list of easy suggestions. I have a few videos to watch too. Stay tuned.
Since we're talking GOALS, I mentioned I needed to make my RH goal-I'm-doing-now more specific and measurable. The dream I chose to make into a goal and focus on currently is ... I am free from BUFFERING.
(Buffering is a Brooke Castillo term meaning using something to mask a feeling -- bored, sad, stressed, etc. Often food, alcohol, shopping -- the usual suspects!)
(If you want to know about RH and her daily journal I'm using, RISE podcast #72 explains it all. She reads the introduction to the book so you can do it in a regular notebook or on a piece of paper daily.)
Anyway ...
I'm "checking" off the day if I don't buffer and adding the checks at the end of the month (and calculating percentages). This way I can see improvement or not. It's working well to remind me I WANT the check mark.
Buffering is something specific. It's NOT going out to eat and having a drink -- unless I'm doing that for emotional reasons. It's not a diet. Planning to go out for the evening and having a couple of glasses of wine is DIFFERENT than getting to a party and fast-drinking a glass of wine because I'm nervous. That's buffering. BTW, my buffering is always food and alcohol.
Buffering is NOT something that deals with emotion in a positive way. A way you don't regret. Going for a walk, meditation, reading, listening to music. You get the idea. P.S. Of course, allowing the feelings too.
It's been working well. TEST TIME starting tomorrow. My BFF is in town for business and coming to me Thursday evening until lunch on Saturday. My family goes skiing leaving Saturday for 5 days (left alone with my own refrigerator!!). Oh, and the Super Bowl. This could be a catastrophic dive into WINE and CHEESE if I'm not careful. Moving stress has me primed and ready and opportunities to overindulge are EVERYWHERE.
I'm making the plan Brooke Castillo style. Pre-making the decision 24 hours in advance. Tonight I'll have 2 glasses of wine. Tonight I won't drink. Tonight I'll have up to 3 glasses of wine. I decide ahead so I'm not responding to an urge, I'm thinking clearly about my decision. The catch is you can't drink MORE than you plan - period. That's supporting an urge (continuing the habit) and BUFFERING. I'll do the same with food, but not as specific since I don't know where we're eating.
This means I need to decide TODAY, what I'll be doing tomorrow. Since I'll be driving to dinner, I'm planning ONE glass of wine. Now it's declared hahahaha! (This doesn't mean I HAVE to have wine. I can choose nothing too. Can always be less, never more.) No indulgent dinner either -- something on the healthy side (ie no splurge on pizza or pasta). I need to feel well this week and I know what gluten does to my mood and energy.
Time to get ready for the gym (man, I hate having to go everyday). I can't wait for my leg to be fit to run. I walked the dogs a bit and it still hurts. Dang and double dang. This one is a pisser.
Later gators.
Tuesday, January 29, 2019
Snow?!?!
Seriously, Atlanta? It's 42 degrees currently this morning and EVERYTHING is cancelled or closed today. If this amounts to NOTHING, I get to shake my heading in my most judgmental way and say ... oh, sweet South, bless your heart. (I'm from the northeast -- it's my god given right to make fun of winter in the south FYI.) Of course, if it's a mess and they're correct --- well, then I knew all along.
If I can somehow struggle through the 40 degree weather, I'm signing the house contract today. Yep, negotiated and everything we need to happen, will. Is that a sign?? Sure. Let's believe the Universe spoke to us and the builder.
I'm still oscillating from wildly excited to mildly panicked. So much to do, so little time. H.E.L.P. The good news is I love it more every time I visit the neighborhood. I think the mild panic is all about everything that has to happen with selling THIS house, more than the decision to move.
Also, I LOVE my house NOW too. There are a few things that I'm going to miss about the actual house. Goodbye, wine refrigerator. And I have a family antique dining room table and NO dining room (which is what I wanted, but now what to do with the table?!?!?). Yep, mild panic.
I need to MASSIVELY edit my kitchen stuff. That's also causing mild panic, but fortunately Marie Kondo is all the rage. Guess I'm joining the does-it-bring-me-joy bandwagon.
Today is the first of the Gretchen Rubin live podcasts for the year of The Happiness Project. I already did the January "work" ahead of this program (because of her podcasts) so it feels like it hasn't started yet. 19 for 2019, word of the year (SHINE), know your tendency (I'm a Questioner) and read The Happiness Project book. My small accountability group is a lot about financial goals so far -- so I'm not chiming in much. I might regret joining the small group (it was free, of course). I don't feel motivated to participate in it -- yet. Hopefully, it gets to more of the FUN stuff. Gretchen Rubin is about PRACTICAL, FUN, SIMPLE. My small group is about some big, heavy goals. Good for them, but not what I'm focusing on for My Happiness Project. We weren't "matched" -- purely a go-down-the-list and make small groups.
Boxing is closed so I'm doing a home workout today. Arms, abs and balance -- tabata style. This week's workout schedule is all messed up. My BFF is coming into town on Thursday night and staying until Saturday afternoon. I was already changing things up and the weather decided to change it up even more. I hope the gym is open for an elliptical workout tomorrow.
It's only Tuesday and I'm tired of this week. I need my boring life for a minute, my beloved CERTAINTY. I'm swimming in VARIETY. I should have written an easier DREAM list!! Later gators.
If I can somehow struggle through the 40 degree weather, I'm signing the house contract today. Yep, negotiated and everything we need to happen, will. Is that a sign?? Sure. Let's believe the Universe spoke to us and the builder.
I'm still oscillating from wildly excited to mildly panicked. So much to do, so little time. H.E.L.P. The good news is I love it more every time I visit the neighborhood. I think the mild panic is all about everything that has to happen with selling THIS house, more than the decision to move.
Also, I LOVE my house NOW too. There are a few things that I'm going to miss about the actual house. Goodbye, wine refrigerator. And I have a family antique dining room table and NO dining room (which is what I wanted, but now what to do with the table?!?!?). Yep, mild panic.
I need to MASSIVELY edit my kitchen stuff. That's also causing mild panic, but fortunately Marie Kondo is all the rage. Guess I'm joining the does-it-bring-me-joy bandwagon.
Today is the first of the Gretchen Rubin live podcasts for the year of The Happiness Project. I already did the January "work" ahead of this program (because of her podcasts) so it feels like it hasn't started yet. 19 for 2019, word of the year (SHINE), know your tendency (I'm a Questioner) and read The Happiness Project book. My small accountability group is a lot about financial goals so far -- so I'm not chiming in much. I might regret joining the small group (it was free, of course). I don't feel motivated to participate in it -- yet. Hopefully, it gets to more of the FUN stuff. Gretchen Rubin is about PRACTICAL, FUN, SIMPLE. My small group is about some big, heavy goals. Good for them, but not what I'm focusing on for My Happiness Project. We weren't "matched" -- purely a go-down-the-list and make small groups.
Boxing is closed so I'm doing a home workout today. Arms, abs and balance -- tabata style. This week's workout schedule is all messed up. My BFF is coming into town on Thursday night and staying until Saturday afternoon. I was already changing things up and the weather decided to change it up even more. I hope the gym is open for an elliptical workout tomorrow.
It's only Tuesday and I'm tired of this week. I need my boring life for a minute, my beloved CERTAINTY. I'm swimming in VARIETY. I should have written an easier DREAM list!! Later gators.
Monday, January 28, 2019
BIG Stuff Happening (Pictures)
I thought crossing off my first 19 for 2019 was big. (Finished Seat of the Soul)
This is bigger. This MIGHT cross off one of my 10 DREAMS from the Rachel Hollis list.
"I live in my DREAM house."
We spent Sunday looking at houses and found a house we LOVE. We love everything about it except the timing. We're going for it and seeing if we can make it work. The money is fine -- it's the logistics of getting our house sale-ready while simultaneously finishing the unfinished parts of the new construction house. Not sure if it can be done in a timing that makes sense, but we are checking it out.
What do all the gurus of personal growth say ... a big enough goal should both excite you and terrify you. Yep, it's doing both.
The excitement for obvious reasons. The terrifying because we've never moved unless we HAD to -- never just because we wanted to move. We always did the best we could with the circumstances and relocation. The decision was ours, but we didn't really have to own ALL of it. This time we own the whole damn thing. If it's awesome -- whew. If we regret it -- crap.
Eyes will be on us and some will find our decision WRONG or think we made a mistake. Judgements will be passed -- it's a given. I need to stand out of my ego and OWN the decision proudly. That's hard since I don't know if we are making a misstep.
Will we like the neighbors?
Will we fit in?
Is it too far out in the countryside?
Will we like the new area enough to justify a move?
Is the neighborhood fun?
We THINK we know the answers, but it's an unknown until it actually happens. Terrifying for a girl who loves CERTAINTY.
P.S. One of my other RH DREAMS is, "I live a life of abundance and variety." This fits that goal too. Maybe I should've made a safer list.
I don't know what to wish for more ... it's possible or impossible. I'll have "feelings" about both scenarios. Scared if it's a go -- disappointed if it's a no (I had to go for the rhyme!!).
Fair warning -- if we go ahead with this, it's the Bob Villa channel here for 2019 LOL.
This is a good test for all my "learning."
Accept what IS; love what IS.
Worrying serves no purpose as it changes nothing.
Trust my instincts.
Decisions made out of acceptance flow more freely.
The Universe works for me, not against me.
I'm visiting the neighborhood (and house) again today to see it on a weekday. Do you want to see a few pictures?
Before the visit, heading for a workout and meditation. Guess what today's meditation theme is!?!? Big week ahead. I need some good vibes. Later gators.
This is bigger. This MIGHT cross off one of my 10 DREAMS from the Rachel Hollis list.
"I live in my DREAM house."
We spent Sunday looking at houses and found a house we LOVE. We love everything about it except the timing. We're going for it and seeing if we can make it work. The money is fine -- it's the logistics of getting our house sale-ready while simultaneously finishing the unfinished parts of the new construction house. Not sure if it can be done in a timing that makes sense, but we are checking it out.
What do all the gurus of personal growth say ... a big enough goal should both excite you and terrify you. Yep, it's doing both.
The excitement for obvious reasons. The terrifying because we've never moved unless we HAD to -- never just because we wanted to move. We always did the best we could with the circumstances and relocation. The decision was ours, but we didn't really have to own ALL of it. This time we own the whole damn thing. If it's awesome -- whew. If we regret it -- crap.
Eyes will be on us and some will find our decision WRONG or think we made a mistake. Judgements will be passed -- it's a given. I need to stand out of my ego and OWN the decision proudly. That's hard since I don't know if we are making a misstep.
Will we like the neighbors?
Will we fit in?
Is it too far out in the countryside?
Will we like the new area enough to justify a move?
Is the neighborhood fun?
We THINK we know the answers, but it's an unknown until it actually happens. Terrifying for a girl who loves CERTAINTY.
P.S. One of my other RH DREAMS is, "I live a life of abundance and variety." This fits that goal too. Maybe I should've made a safer list.
I don't know what to wish for more ... it's possible or impossible. I'll have "feelings" about both scenarios. Scared if it's a go -- disappointed if it's a no (I had to go for the rhyme!!).
Fair warning -- if we go ahead with this, it's the Bob Villa channel here for 2019 LOL.
This is a good test for all my "learning."
Accept what IS; love what IS.
Worrying serves no purpose as it changes nothing.
Trust my instincts.
Decisions made out of acceptance flow more freely.
The Universe works for me, not against me.
I'm visiting the neighborhood (and house) again today to see it on a weekday. Do you want to see a few pictures?
Before the visit, heading for a workout and meditation. Guess what today's meditation theme is!?!? Big week ahead. I need some good vibes. Later gators.
Friday, January 25, 2019
Hello, Weekend and More Goodies (pictures)
I DRAGGED myself to GNI last night -- I wanted nothing more than sweatpants and a book in bed. It was a better night than I predicted though. The dinner was good (she owns a restaurant and caters from there). We played a game that's similar to BINGO ... Pokeno. Easy and pure luck. I lost my $5, but it was nice to all sit together with one big conversation.
A couple of things I realized. I was majorly PMSing and that was probably 90% of my mood yesterday. Also, I had a couple of glasses of red wine and I'm starting to think red wine makes me stuffy and sneezy. Sulfites, I guess. I need to pay more attention to that connection. I drank to wake myself up -- I was dragging. Probably a mistake. I wasn't in the mood for the wine and wish I chose differently.
I didn't get home until 11 o'clock and between wine, PMS (now my monthly) and less sleep, I'm hurting this morning.
While I was gone another FUN package was delivered and it's just what I needed today. Poppy and Dot. Super soft fuzzy quarter-zip and joggers ... house lounging and dog walking. They don't really "go" together, but I don't care -- they match because they are both COMFORTABLE!
UPDATE on the diffuser:
I added a lot more oil and STILL can barely smell it. Maybe I need different oils? I can smell it when I'm right next to it, but it doesn't scent the room. Dang. The oil pack has 5 choices, so I'm upping it again today.
I read more of The Seat of the Soul. I don't love it; I don't even like it. So much talk of karma and karma that affects lifetimes. Not sure I believe that's entirely true. It feels like a kind of Catholic guilt thing ... every bad thing you do will mean a bad thing coming back to you -- during some lifetime. It feels like a scare tactic, not an uplifting message. Also, you can be paying the price (so to speak) from other lifetimes of your soul. I want to finish it and move on. AND, I want to finish the book because it'll be my first 19 of 2019 goals completed. The message has similarities to Byron Katie and Eckhart Tolle, but it's feels harsh and sends ME the message that perfection is the only answer. I bet that's why I gave the book away -- I probably didn't like it the first time either!!
Today is a quiet day. A couple of errands, paperwork and a phone call with Darcie (my PHB accountability partner). We decided to talk twice a month -- hope it continues.
Happy Friday -- later gators.
A couple of things I realized. I was majorly PMSing and that was probably 90% of my mood yesterday. Also, I had a couple of glasses of red wine and I'm starting to think red wine makes me stuffy and sneezy. Sulfites, I guess. I need to pay more attention to that connection. I drank to wake myself up -- I was dragging. Probably a mistake. I wasn't in the mood for the wine and wish I chose differently.
I didn't get home until 11 o'clock and between wine, PMS (now my monthly) and less sleep, I'm hurting this morning.
While I was gone another FUN package was delivered and it's just what I needed today. Poppy and Dot. Super soft fuzzy quarter-zip and joggers ... house lounging and dog walking. They don't really "go" together, but I don't care -- they match because they are both COMFORTABLE!
UPDATE on the diffuser:
I added a lot more oil and STILL can barely smell it. Maybe I need different oils? I can smell it when I'm right next to it, but it doesn't scent the room. Dang. The oil pack has 5 choices, so I'm upping it again today.
I read more of The Seat of the Soul. I don't love it; I don't even like it. So much talk of karma and karma that affects lifetimes. Not sure I believe that's entirely true. It feels like a kind of Catholic guilt thing ... every bad thing you do will mean a bad thing coming back to you -- during some lifetime. It feels like a scare tactic, not an uplifting message. Also, you can be paying the price (so to speak) from other lifetimes of your soul. I want to finish it and move on. AND, I want to finish the book because it'll be my first 19 of 2019 goals completed. The message has similarities to Byron Katie and Eckhart Tolle, but it's feels harsh and sends ME the message that perfection is the only answer. I bet that's why I gave the book away -- I probably didn't like it the first time either!!
Today is a quiet day. A couple of errands, paperwork and a phone call with Darcie (my PHB accountability partner). We decided to talk twice a month -- hope it continues.
Happy Friday -- later gators.
Thursday, January 24, 2019
Junebug and Goodies (pictures)
Yesterday was up and down and up and down. My grand-dog was set for spaying and ended up needed sinus fistula surgery, teeth pulled and turns out she's not a young dog as the original vet assessed (8 not 2). The OTHER vet missed EVERYTHING. Releash fired them. It was that bad.
To add insult to injury, little miss has a false pregnancy --- producing milk and her body thinks she's carrying puppies. Poor little lady.
It was a hard day -- waiting for a long, late surgery. Wondering if anything else was going to happen. All seems well and we're picking her up this morning (her mama is going with me -- no podcasts this trip). She needed to be kept overnight, as it turned out. Unfortunately, the rain came later than expected and I'm STILL driving in the pouring rain. At least it's daylight.
Otherwise, it was a nice day. Lunch with youngest, errands and reading. I ended up pulling A New Earth from the bookshelf. Yep, I read it. Lots of notes and marks -- I guess it was so long ago. Dang, memory! I started re-reading it and I like it a lot (more than The Seat of the Soul). I think I'll listen to the podcasts and read the book. It reads very easily (for some reason I thought it was a hard read).
I'll finish both books -- they work well together and relate well to Byron Katie's work too. After they're finished, I'm hitting my fun read!
Speaking of fun, my packages are trickling in -- here are the 2 that arrived yesterday.
This is an essential oil, cool air humidifier. Atlanta DOESN'T need extra humidity (hahaha), but I keep SMELLING these in stores and loving it. It's a safer alternative to candles. It has a colored light option. Pretty and nice mood lighting. I used it quickly yesterday but didn't notice the scent. I probably need to add more oil. I'll experiment with it.
Another cheap, vintage clutch. From 1950's shipped from Paris. It's really pretty in person. I probably have enough clutches for the time being -- this might be the last unless something super unique jumps out. Looks like a slice of watermelon :)
Carpets getting measured this afternoon and GNI ladies group tonight. It's a long day. I'm already craving bed and wishing I could stay home tonight instead and read. Party pooper urge is STRONG! In the name of connection and variety, I'll force myself to go and maybe even enjoy the night. I'm going to turn up my best attitude and see where that gets me.
I'm on the fence about continuing with the group. It's not fun -- most months. It's still stand around and eat and have boring conversation most of the time. The ladies who were switching things up, dropped out of the group (they used work schedule as the reason). That said, it's only once a month and I don't have to go every month. Decisions, decisions!! I'll probably hang on until I host in May and then decide either way.
I switched the carpet measuring time so I could workout this morning at the gym. With the weather change (pouring rain with high wind) -- traffic will be a mess and Junebug's mama is coming so I need to add-on time to pick her up too. It's too tight to make it to the gym. Dang. I did an easy arm workout yesterday so I'm going to do arms again, abs, plank and modified burpies ... all tabata style ... for a quick home workout. That will get me back on my "normal" injury schedule for the rest of the week.
This week is lightening fast - anyone else feel this way?!?! Have a great Thursday -- later gators.
To add insult to injury, little miss has a false pregnancy --- producing milk and her body thinks she's carrying puppies. Poor little lady.
 |
| Over Thanksgiving, in heat. Look at that face!! |
It was a hard day -- waiting for a long, late surgery. Wondering if anything else was going to happen. All seems well and we're picking her up this morning (her mama is going with me -- no podcasts this trip). She needed to be kept overnight, as it turned out. Unfortunately, the rain came later than expected and I'm STILL driving in the pouring rain. At least it's daylight.
Otherwise, it was a nice day. Lunch with youngest, errands and reading. I ended up pulling A New Earth from the bookshelf. Yep, I read it. Lots of notes and marks -- I guess it was so long ago. Dang, memory! I started re-reading it and I like it a lot (more than The Seat of the Soul). I think I'll listen to the podcasts and read the book. It reads very easily (for some reason I thought it was a hard read).
I'll finish both books -- they work well together and relate well to Byron Katie's work too. After they're finished, I'm hitting my fun read!
Speaking of fun, my packages are trickling in -- here are the 2 that arrived yesterday.
This is an essential oil, cool air humidifier. Atlanta DOESN'T need extra humidity (hahaha), but I keep SMELLING these in stores and loving it. It's a safer alternative to candles. It has a colored light option. Pretty and nice mood lighting. I used it quickly yesterday but didn't notice the scent. I probably need to add more oil. I'll experiment with it.
Another cheap, vintage clutch. From 1950's shipped from Paris. It's really pretty in person. I probably have enough clutches for the time being -- this might be the last unless something super unique jumps out. Looks like a slice of watermelon :)
Carpets getting measured this afternoon and GNI ladies group tonight. It's a long day. I'm already craving bed and wishing I could stay home tonight instead and read. Party pooper urge is STRONG! In the name of connection and variety, I'll force myself to go and maybe even enjoy the night. I'm going to turn up my best attitude and see where that gets me.
I'm on the fence about continuing with the group. It's not fun -- most months. It's still stand around and eat and have boring conversation most of the time. The ladies who were switching things up, dropped out of the group (they used work schedule as the reason). That said, it's only once a month and I don't have to go every month. Decisions, decisions!! I'll probably hang on until I host in May and then decide either way.
I switched the carpet measuring time so I could workout this morning at the gym. With the weather change (pouring rain with high wind) -- traffic will be a mess and Junebug's mama is coming so I need to add-on time to pick her up too. It's too tight to make it to the gym. Dang. I did an easy arm workout yesterday so I'm going to do arms again, abs, plank and modified burpies ... all tabata style ... for a quick home workout. That will get me back on my "normal" injury schedule for the rest of the week.
This week is lightening fast - anyone else feel this way?!?! Have a great Thursday -- later gators.
Wednesday, January 23, 2019
Want Some Podcast Learning?
Here's the scoop:
I listened to Gretchen Rubin's podcasts most of the 3 hour drive yesterday.
Podcast #180 Travel Hacks was the one that stood out. Most of the hacks I use to some extent already, but there was a listener suggestion for traveling with a pet. When it's too hot to leave the pet in the car, she searches the route for PetSmart and Petco stores. Both have human restrooms and, of course, you can take the pets inside. What a great idea!
GR's assistant talked about a book series she saved for travel: The Neapolitan Series by Elena Ferrante. Great stories, easy read. I downloaded the first book (only $6 on kindle). Why .... drum roll ... because I finally FINISHED that dark, dark book. A Little Life (I noticed I've been calling it The Little Life incorrectly -- oops). When you think it couldn't get worse, it does! Depressing from page 1 to page 820. I need something happy and fun next.
Back to podcasts .... I got a little burned out from GR podcasts yesterday so I switched to Oprah's series on A New Earth. I think it's going to be a great alternative to reading the book. The only problem is Eckhart Tolle is soft spoken, so much so, I could barely hear him in the car. I play the podcast through my phone and with highway noise, I was straining to hear him. I'll have to save it for house listening only. Or I wonder if there's a way to play it though the car?? I'll check that out.
I'm picking my grand-dog up tomorrow morning instead of rainy rush hour tonight. I asked for a SOLUTION. It's odd how often I don't ask and equally interesting how often the "problem" is easily fixable. I'm calling the carpet guys to change my appointment tomorrow so I can workout before I go ... be a FIXER. Simple, yet I used to NEVER think to ASK.
My day opened up today since I'm not taking the long drive. My youngest has a flex afternoon, so we're headed on a lunch date. A nice surprise for today.
I woke up feeling HAPPY this morning. It may sound crazy, but GLUTEN makes me sad. I've been liberal and quite daring with gluten considering my cold sore potential. Dodged the cold sore, but it was changing my mood again and I didn't notice. I can tolerate gluten, until I don't tolerate it. I've kicked it out ... again. When will I learn?? Maybe, never (based on my history LOL). Since I'm not snacking, the gluten naturally left and now I'm making the connection AGAIN.
That said, I'm heading into PMS and I can feel THE grumpy starting. Different than sad though. Sad affects me; grumpy affects the world!!
Last little updates. I deleted the PHB network from my computer. I have the membership through June and if I absolutely needed to get on, I could, but I'd have to work for it. It felt like a grown up, healthy decision to make -- goodbye, Jennifer. I also cleaned up my Instagram. If the account doesn't make me feel GREAT -- goodbye.
Oh, one last thing I forgot. GR mentioned she sends a daily email with a great quote. I need to find the sign up for it. I love a good one-liner for inspiration.
Have a great day - later gators.
I listened to Gretchen Rubin's podcasts most of the 3 hour drive yesterday.
Podcast #180 Travel Hacks was the one that stood out. Most of the hacks I use to some extent already, but there was a listener suggestion for traveling with a pet. When it's too hot to leave the pet in the car, she searches the route for PetSmart and Petco stores. Both have human restrooms and, of course, you can take the pets inside. What a great idea!
GR's assistant talked about a book series she saved for travel: The Neapolitan Series by Elena Ferrante. Great stories, easy read. I downloaded the first book (only $6 on kindle). Why .... drum roll ... because I finally FINISHED that dark, dark book. A Little Life (I noticed I've been calling it The Little Life incorrectly -- oops). When you think it couldn't get worse, it does! Depressing from page 1 to page 820. I need something happy and fun next.
Back to podcasts .... I got a little burned out from GR podcasts yesterday so I switched to Oprah's series on A New Earth. I think it's going to be a great alternative to reading the book. The only problem is Eckhart Tolle is soft spoken, so much so, I could barely hear him in the car. I play the podcast through my phone and with highway noise, I was straining to hear him. I'll have to save it for house listening only. Or I wonder if there's a way to play it though the car?? I'll check that out.
I'm picking my grand-dog up tomorrow morning instead of rainy rush hour tonight. I asked for a SOLUTION. It's odd how often I don't ask and equally interesting how often the "problem" is easily fixable. I'm calling the carpet guys to change my appointment tomorrow so I can workout before I go ... be a FIXER. Simple, yet I used to NEVER think to ASK.
My day opened up today since I'm not taking the long drive. My youngest has a flex afternoon, so we're headed on a lunch date. A nice surprise for today.
I woke up feeling HAPPY this morning. It may sound crazy, but GLUTEN makes me sad. I've been liberal and quite daring with gluten considering my cold sore potential. Dodged the cold sore, but it was changing my mood again and I didn't notice. I can tolerate gluten, until I don't tolerate it. I've kicked it out ... again. When will I learn?? Maybe, never (based on my history LOL). Since I'm not snacking, the gluten naturally left and now I'm making the connection AGAIN.
That said, I'm heading into PMS and I can feel THE grumpy starting. Different than sad though. Sad affects me; grumpy affects the world!!
Last little updates. I deleted the PHB network from my computer. I have the membership through June and if I absolutely needed to get on, I could, but I'd have to work for it. It felt like a grown up, healthy decision to make -- goodbye, Jennifer. I also cleaned up my Instagram. If the account doesn't make me feel GREAT -- goodbye.
Oh, one last thing I forgot. GR mentioned she sends a daily email with a great quote. I need to find the sign up for it. I love a good one-liner for inspiration.
Have a great day - later gators.
Tuesday, January 22, 2019
Less Fun Day
Less fun, but I'm making the best of it.
I have to transport my little grand-dog to the far, far away vet for spaying (90 minutes each way if no traffic). Releash's new intake vet messed up and she was not spayed (went into heat over Thanksgiving - what a mess). This is a great vet and I don't trust the other on my grand-doggie!!
Podcasts to the rescue! I loaded a bunch of Gretchen Rubin and Rachel Hollis for the 3 plus hours in the car. I have to repeat this for pickup and possibly pickup during rush hour either Wednesday or Thursday. God help me get through Atlanta in rush hour! -- with rain tomorrow!
Before the drive, I'm grabbing an elliptical workout at the gym. It's such a nuisance to have to go there for EVERY workout, but at least I can do something. I'm reminded why I LOVE my home gym.
I did a little "treat" shopping for myself the last few days. I'll post pictures and info once everything comes (just a few things, but fun!!). The first treat was new underwear. No one needs to "see" new underwear though so here's the scoop:
New underwear because underwear is important -- it's like the mattress of the clothing world. I spend more of my day in underwear than any other piece of clothing (my bed is the most used furniture - in case the analogy wasn't obvious lol). I've been waiting for a GAP sale. My little Duke chewed up a few of my favorite pairs for working out and I was having to do wash too frequently. I need seamless because of sweating and chaffing (TMI - sorry).
I hesitate to type this because I might jinx myself - yes, the jinx is REAL!! I'm doing well with my return to healthy (#10 zillion). I'm filling up the "allow urges" book and sticking with no snacking in the afternoon/evening. It looks like I'm over the big hurdle this time (fingers crossed, wood knocked, etc).
My afternoon routine is feeling like a ROUTINE more each day. I'm crediting it for the swing forward this time. I'm using Rachel Hollis' goal journal ... 5 things I'm grateful for, 10 goals and the goal that's front and center today. She mentioned working that forward goal "like your life depends on it." Of course, I know my life doesn't actually depend on it, but that phrase keeps sticking with me in a good way. Thanks, Rachel Hollis. Lord, it takes a village to keep me on track.
Treats and fun in my day also help to keep my mind from thinking FOOD is the only answer for pleasure. It's usually only those few witching hours that get me -- I'm not "thinking" about food the rest of the time. Yet, those few hours feels like a lifetime some days.
I'm making headway with the books I'm reading. The Little Life - 200 pages left, 600 read. It's "good" if you want a dark, depressing read. I can't wait to move onto something happy and stupid hahaha!!
Seat of the Soul is back to being a mystery to me. I'm doing a chapter a night. It makes some interesting points, but, overall, I don't get it. Maybe it's more that I'm not sure I actually believe it. It's so specific about the soul and how it all works. I'm not sold either way -- true or not true. Who is he to say? That said, it has some nice messages and I'll reserve total judgement until I'm at the end (again).
Oprah is doing her podcast on the chapters of The New Earth. That's another book I didn't "get" (but it's not on my re-read list this year, thank God). I'm not sure if I actually read the entire book -- I think maybe I gave up early on. I'm going to try some of the podcasts to see if I like it and if I'm inspired to read it (again??). What did I do before PODCASTS???
Best get things moving. I need to get to the gym on the early side because I have competition for the elliptical. One of the ladies uses it before class as her warm up. I feel it's only polite to be finished by the time she needs it since her timing is specific to class starting.
Later gators.
I have to transport my little grand-dog to the far, far away vet for spaying (90 minutes each way if no traffic). Releash's new intake vet messed up and she was not spayed (went into heat over Thanksgiving - what a mess). This is a great vet and I don't trust the other on my grand-doggie!!
Podcasts to the rescue! I loaded a bunch of Gretchen Rubin and Rachel Hollis for the 3 plus hours in the car. I have to repeat this for pickup and possibly pickup during rush hour either Wednesday or Thursday. God help me get through Atlanta in rush hour! -- with rain tomorrow!
Before the drive, I'm grabbing an elliptical workout at the gym. It's such a nuisance to have to go there for EVERY workout, but at least I can do something. I'm reminded why I LOVE my home gym.
I did a little "treat" shopping for myself the last few days. I'll post pictures and info once everything comes (just a few things, but fun!!). The first treat was new underwear. No one needs to "see" new underwear though so here's the scoop:
New underwear because underwear is important -- it's like the mattress of the clothing world. I spend more of my day in underwear than any other piece of clothing (my bed is the most used furniture - in case the analogy wasn't obvious lol). I've been waiting for a GAP sale. My little Duke chewed up a few of my favorite pairs for working out and I was having to do wash too frequently. I need seamless because of sweating and chaffing (TMI - sorry).
I hesitate to type this because I might jinx myself - yes, the jinx is REAL!! I'm doing well with my return to healthy (#10 zillion). I'm filling up the "allow urges" book and sticking with no snacking in the afternoon/evening. It looks like I'm over the big hurdle this time (fingers crossed, wood knocked, etc).
My afternoon routine is feeling like a ROUTINE more each day. I'm crediting it for the swing forward this time. I'm using Rachel Hollis' goal journal ... 5 things I'm grateful for, 10 goals and the goal that's front and center today. She mentioned working that forward goal "like your life depends on it." Of course, I know my life doesn't actually depend on it, but that phrase keeps sticking with me in a good way. Thanks, Rachel Hollis. Lord, it takes a village to keep me on track.
 |
| Like your life depends on it :-) |
Treats and fun in my day also help to keep my mind from thinking FOOD is the only answer for pleasure. It's usually only those few witching hours that get me -- I'm not "thinking" about food the rest of the time. Yet, those few hours feels like a lifetime some days.
I'm making headway with the books I'm reading. The Little Life - 200 pages left, 600 read. It's "good" if you want a dark, depressing read. I can't wait to move onto something happy and stupid hahaha!!
Seat of the Soul is back to being a mystery to me. I'm doing a chapter a night. It makes some interesting points, but, overall, I don't get it. Maybe it's more that I'm not sure I actually believe it. It's so specific about the soul and how it all works. I'm not sold either way -- true or not true. Who is he to say? That said, it has some nice messages and I'll reserve total judgement until I'm at the end (again).
Oprah is doing her podcast on the chapters of The New Earth. That's another book I didn't "get" (but it's not on my re-read list this year, thank God). I'm not sure if I actually read the entire book -- I think maybe I gave up early on. I'm going to try some of the podcasts to see if I like it and if I'm inspired to read it (again??). What did I do before PODCASTS???
Best get things moving. I need to get to the gym on the early side because I have competition for the elliptical. One of the ladies uses it before class as her warm up. I feel it's only polite to be finished by the time she needs it since her timing is specific to class starting.
Later gators.
Monday, January 21, 2019
Hello, Monday.
I was MIA this weekend because hubby was up with me every morning and no quiet time to post.
Here's a recap ... life's been happening!!
The White Elephant party was surprisingly fun. The last time we went it was so hard to join conversations and we felt a bit like losers in the corner. No problem this year - at all. Fewer people made it easier to maneuver around and new faces made it easier to find conversations. So many conversations in fact, I was talked out. Go figure. Our gift was a hit and part of an overall theme of toilet gifts this year.
The best gift?? Someone bought a gold toned plunger and attached a string of scratch-off tickets. A golden plunger with a golden ticket. It was a great idea. Let's be honest, everyone could use a new plunger and, maybe win some $$$$. I'm totally copying it if I ever get invited to another one. (I had hubby pick and we got a "world's greatest grandpa mug" and Starbucks cookie straws. We laughed that apparently grandpa didn't live up to the role as the world's greatest so it had to go - everything had to be new, so someone gave it to him hahaha.)
______________________________________________________________________
Other big weekend news ...
After a long conversation at dinner on Friday, we decided to start the process of moving locally. Our neighborhood is too big for us now, taxes too high and HOA too much with the manned gates. It served our purpose and we have no regrets living here, but the time has come for something different.
We planned to do this in about 3 years based on hubby's job situation, but after talking about it, we decided that was flawed reasoning.
We're not in a rush. Moving forward on house projects pretty quickly though -- hubby finally agreed. Carpets are picked and should be in soon; calling painter after carpet date is set. We started looking for houses. Drove around to open houses and neighborhoods. We're not at a stage ask for house showings, but we want to be ready when we find a great choice. We can be picky and we don't have to worry about school district for the first time EVER!
Thought is might be worth mentioning ... our painter wants to do carpets first which is the opposite what I thought. The reasoning is solid. He said they always cover carpets regardless of "planning to replace" and the dust from removal of old carpet/pad is a problem on freshly cured walls. Also, there's usually some base board scuff or height difference. Good advice.
______________________________________________________________________
Less big news ...
The Saturday boxing class did not disappoint. Man, it's FUN and high energy and a great workout. Why did I wait so long to try it? I was chicken and that's never a good reason (unless I'm scared of actually dying, i.e. sky diving, duh).
Sunday night meditation class. It was also a surprise win. I thought it would be okay and something to try, but it was more than okay - it was GOOD. We did 2 meditations, one breathing and one guided visualization. Journaled. Shared. Did "listening" exercises with different partners. Next week we'll do 2 other styles of meditation with this same group.
The group was a good mix. One other instructor, a married couple, lots of newbies to meditation and one lady who described everything as "delicious" -- it made me hungry every time she talked :)
______________________________________________________________________
This was a weekend of YES - hibernation is officially over.
Monday is here - start to a fresh week. It feels good (I know, Mondays are different when you're working - I remember all too well ... *cue guilt*). It's a full calendar week - some fun, some less fun. More on it all later. Make it a "delicious" week -- later gators. (P.S. "Delicious" lady was a bit over-the-top, but I tried to be a better person and not judge -- I give myself a C+ LOL)
Here's a recap ... life's been happening!!
The White Elephant party was surprisingly fun. The last time we went it was so hard to join conversations and we felt a bit like losers in the corner. No problem this year - at all. Fewer people made it easier to maneuver around and new faces made it easier to find conversations. So many conversations in fact, I was talked out. Go figure. Our gift was a hit and part of an overall theme of toilet gifts this year.
The best gift?? Someone bought a gold toned plunger and attached a string of scratch-off tickets. A golden plunger with a golden ticket. It was a great idea. Let's be honest, everyone could use a new plunger and, maybe win some $$$$. I'm totally copying it if I ever get invited to another one. (I had hubby pick and we got a "world's greatest grandpa mug" and Starbucks cookie straws. We laughed that apparently grandpa didn't live up to the role as the world's greatest so it had to go - everything had to be new, so someone gave it to him hahaha.)
______________________________________________________________________
Other big weekend news ...
After a long conversation at dinner on Friday, we decided to start the process of moving locally. Our neighborhood is too big for us now, taxes too high and HOA too much with the manned gates. It served our purpose and we have no regrets living here, but the time has come for something different.
We planned to do this in about 3 years based on hubby's job situation, but after talking about it, we decided that was flawed reasoning.
We're not in a rush. Moving forward on house projects pretty quickly though -- hubby finally agreed. Carpets are picked and should be in soon; calling painter after carpet date is set. We started looking for houses. Drove around to open houses and neighborhoods. We're not at a stage ask for house showings, but we want to be ready when we find a great choice. We can be picky and we don't have to worry about school district for the first time EVER!
Thought is might be worth mentioning ... our painter wants to do carpets first which is the opposite what I thought. The reasoning is solid. He said they always cover carpets regardless of "planning to replace" and the dust from removal of old carpet/pad is a problem on freshly cured walls. Also, there's usually some base board scuff or height difference. Good advice.
______________________________________________________________________
Less big news ...
The Saturday boxing class did not disappoint. Man, it's FUN and high energy and a great workout. Why did I wait so long to try it? I was chicken and that's never a good reason (unless I'm scared of actually dying, i.e. sky diving, duh).
Sunday night meditation class. It was also a surprise win. I thought it would be okay and something to try, but it was more than okay - it was GOOD. We did 2 meditations, one breathing and one guided visualization. Journaled. Shared. Did "listening" exercises with different partners. Next week we'll do 2 other styles of meditation with this same group.
The group was a good mix. One other instructor, a married couple, lots of newbies to meditation and one lady who described everything as "delicious" -- it made me hungry every time she talked :)
______________________________________________________________________
This was a weekend of YES - hibernation is officially over.
Monday is here - start to a fresh week. It feels good (I know, Mondays are different when you're working - I remember all too well ... *cue guilt*). It's a full calendar week - some fun, some less fun. More on it all later. Make it a "delicious" week -- later gators. (P.S. "Delicious" lady was a bit over-the-top, but I tried to be a better person and not judge -- I give myself a C+ LOL)
Friday, January 18, 2019
Weather Report
Seems big storm front is moving through this weekend. Rain, WIND, dropping temperatures. All things of winter in the south and I'm not complaining about the WEATHER. I'm complaining that the weather is leaving everyone else's plans canceled and me to entertain bored men. Ugh.
I need to finish up my post-Christmas hibernation. I've been spending too much time in the house, too little time in the world. Time to put some "yeses" on the calendar. (I had no idea if that was an actual word - yeses - spell check assures me it is - thanks big guy!)
Good news, bad news. Good news: my yoga studio had a meditation class on its schedule. Awesome - Tuesday at noon. The entire month of December, Tuesdays didn't allow me to go, but I was excited to start back at it in January. Bad news: class cancelled (and I have 8 classes left in a class bundle I bought - I can take any class and it's good for a year though). Good news: they are offering free Friday meditations for 8 weeks. Bad news: it's full - I'm waitlisted for a couple.
Then I see they are offering 2 Sunday nights of a meditation clinic (90 minutes each) for $30. Okay. I'm in - why not. End my hibernation. Learn something new. Have a life of VARIETY. Where have I heard that - oh, my daily goal list - yep, need to keep on that one. First one is this Sunday. Yea me for pushing outside my comfort zone (it's at NIGHT!!) and I'm going alone. Being "brave" is a good muscle to use.
Boxing yesterday. You know how all of a sudden your brain remembers something ... it's a quick passing thought and then you panic? That happened with boxing. I was waiting around - killing time to go and my brain nudged me. "It's strange you never noticed this noon class - why is that?!?!" Ut oh. I remembered some of the noon classes were Parkinson's classes and the other's were only 30 minutes. Yep - it was a lunch quickie class. Dang. I rushed to the gym so I could do some elliptical ahead of class. Got 15 minutes by the skin of my teeth and then the class. Turns out that combination is a good balance of a workout. I really like this instructor so I might do it again (with a little less rush).
I came home and felt crappy. A cold that won't make up its mind. Guess what I did? After a quick shower and my afternoon "routine," I finished watching Netflix's YOU. It was good. Pure entertainment, not winning any acting awards, but it was fun. I'm glad I finished it so life can continue LOL.
I also read the first chapter of Seat of the Soul and I understood it!! Woo hoo. Off to a good start. That book seemed so mystical the first time I read it. The first chapter was on evolution - ha, maybe I'm more evolved now.
I'm having lunch with my favorite aunt today. It's always a great conversation - laughing, family scoop and family connection! It's a good way to come out of hibernation LOL!
Saturday is the White Elephant party. Can I whine a bit about this? This is the "friend" who I keep trying to become friends with and it never goes to the next level. I like her a lot; she's super interesting and loves to do different things. Every year she invites me to this party. We've gone once or twice ... can't remember. It's not that the party is horrible, it's that we don't know ANYONE else. BUT, everyone else knows each other. Hubby and I spend a lot of time trying to join conversations and it's awkward and strange. I come out of the party feeling a little like a friendless loser.
Why go? I want to be friends with the host - is that pathetic? I'll put a smile on my face, act friendly and try to have a good time. I have the gift exchange ready and I need to come up with some food to bring. I'm trying not to complain, but one last complaint ... by the time I buy the gift, bring food, bring wine - it feels like too much for an evening of feeling awkward. I need to do a turn around with my attitude. I'll work on that before Saturday. Wish me luck. I need it!
Okay, I need to get moving to go workout on the elliptical. Did I mention Google and I think my leg injury is a pulled muscle? Up to 6 weeks to recover. Dang. Later gators.
I need to finish up my post-Christmas hibernation. I've been spending too much time in the house, too little time in the world. Time to put some "yeses" on the calendar. (I had no idea if that was an actual word - yeses - spell check assures me it is - thanks big guy!)
Good news, bad news. Good news: my yoga studio had a meditation class on its schedule. Awesome - Tuesday at noon. The entire month of December, Tuesdays didn't allow me to go, but I was excited to start back at it in January. Bad news: class cancelled (and I have 8 classes left in a class bundle I bought - I can take any class and it's good for a year though). Good news: they are offering free Friday meditations for 8 weeks. Bad news: it's full - I'm waitlisted for a couple.
Then I see they are offering 2 Sunday nights of a meditation clinic (90 minutes each) for $30. Okay. I'm in - why not. End my hibernation. Learn something new. Have a life of VARIETY. Where have I heard that - oh, my daily goal list - yep, need to keep on that one. First one is this Sunday. Yea me for pushing outside my comfort zone (it's at NIGHT!!) and I'm going alone. Being "brave" is a good muscle to use.
Boxing yesterday. You know how all of a sudden your brain remembers something ... it's a quick passing thought and then you panic? That happened with boxing. I was waiting around - killing time to go and my brain nudged me. "It's strange you never noticed this noon class - why is that?!?!" Ut oh. I remembered some of the noon classes were Parkinson's classes and the other's were only 30 minutes. Yep - it was a lunch quickie class. Dang. I rushed to the gym so I could do some elliptical ahead of class. Got 15 minutes by the skin of my teeth and then the class. Turns out that combination is a good balance of a workout. I really like this instructor so I might do it again (with a little less rush).
I came home and felt crappy. A cold that won't make up its mind. Guess what I did? After a quick shower and my afternoon "routine," I finished watching Netflix's YOU. It was good. Pure entertainment, not winning any acting awards, but it was fun. I'm glad I finished it so life can continue LOL.
I also read the first chapter of Seat of the Soul and I understood it!! Woo hoo. Off to a good start. That book seemed so mystical the first time I read it. The first chapter was on evolution - ha, maybe I'm more evolved now.
I'm having lunch with my favorite aunt today. It's always a great conversation - laughing, family scoop and family connection! It's a good way to come out of hibernation LOL!
Saturday is the White Elephant party. Can I whine a bit about this? This is the "friend" who I keep trying to become friends with and it never goes to the next level. I like her a lot; she's super interesting and loves to do different things. Every year she invites me to this party. We've gone once or twice ... can't remember. It's not that the party is horrible, it's that we don't know ANYONE else. BUT, everyone else knows each other. Hubby and I spend a lot of time trying to join conversations and it's awkward and strange. I come out of the party feeling a little like a friendless loser.
Why go? I want to be friends with the host - is that pathetic? I'll put a smile on my face, act friendly and try to have a good time. I have the gift exchange ready and I need to come up with some food to bring. I'm trying not to complain, but one last complaint ... by the time I buy the gift, bring food, bring wine - it feels like too much for an evening of feeling awkward. I need to do a turn around with my attitude. I'll work on that before Saturday. Wish me luck. I need it!
 |
| Should be something "funny" per the invite. I went with a theme. |
Okay, I need to get moving to go workout on the elliptical. Did I mention Google and I think my leg injury is a pulled muscle? Up to 6 weeks to recover. Dang. Later gators.
Thursday, January 17, 2019
What's next?
Life after PHB.
From the beginning I was concerned the program would finish and I'd take a deep dive into my refrigerator. (Turns out, I did a lot of refrigerator swimming on the program anyway.)
I'm ready for the NEXT stuff. Even without the "Jennifer-factor," I'm ready to do something different. There are times I've thought that I've become a cliche and a personal growth junkie. The kind of junkie that spends time "learning and growing" but is actually not DOING anything but listening to others.
Like a person who has a goal to start running ... buys running shoes, buys running clothes, researches running routes, reads about injury prevention, researches running groups BUT NEVER ACTUALLY RUNS.
Then I remember I'm also DOING too. I have to focus on that because I could see myself falling into the former category at times. I listen to podcasts with net-zero time -- I'm driving, cooking dinner, cleaning, dog walking. It's a fun adjunct to those times, not an excuse to avoid DOING.
I have some fun and inexpensive monthly accountability "programs" in place. Gretchen Rubin's Happiness Project with a one hour live monthly call ($10/month) and Rachel Hollis' monthly 2 hour coaching ($31/month if you join for the year). That's worth it to me. Maybe someday I'll try Brooke Castillo, but not now.
IN RADICALLY DIFFERENT NEWS ... (because I've totally over-talked personal growth) ...
I was a sofa-surfer total couch-slug yesterday. Why?? I started watching Netflix's YOU. It's crazy good so far - Gone Girl style of suspense with thought dialogue running constantly. The dude is nuts, but somehow likable too. Seems like everyone has SOMETHING that's a bit off. I have no idea if it ends well (you know that's my hallmark for a good movie, TV show, book), but I'm hooked.
It's funny because Tuesday was a day of ALL THE HEALTHY THINGS. RH 2 hour live coaching, PHB call, meditation, workout, outside walk, time with my kids (I was unstoppable). Yesterday was, well, NOT that!! I'd say it was BALANCE, but it feels like it was an unexpected CRASH. I thought I'd just check out one episode to see what the fuss was about and suddenly it was 10 o'clock. Oops. Netflix for the win.
I chose my next non-fiction book. Seat of the Soul -- I've read it years and years ago, but never understood it. It's on my 19 for 2019 list and I was ready for a break from habit/goal books. I nailed the introduction LOL. I'm curious if it will make more sense now.
My leg is a mess from the walk with my friend - still. UGH. It's a bother that every workout involves going to the gym right now. Guess I should be grateful that's an option.
Today, I'm heading to the noon boxing class. A few weeks ago, an instructor subbed and I loved her class. She subbed on Tuesday, but I had just finished my elliptical workout. I asked if she taught regularly and it's Thursday at noon. At first, I thought: no way, too late. Then, I thought: why not. I used to go to lifting classes at noon -- how is this different. Can't hurt to try.
The rest of the day is rescue calls and, let's be honest, a couple more episodes of YOU!! I'm limiting it to two and can't start until after dinner or the day will be a repeat of yesterday. Fool me once, Netflix ...
Thursday already - and that means a new podcast from Brooke Castillo. Awesome - she's my favorite! Hope it's a good one. Later gators.
From the beginning I was concerned the program would finish and I'd take a deep dive into my refrigerator. (Turns out, I did a lot of refrigerator swimming on the program anyway.)
I'm ready for the NEXT stuff. Even without the "Jennifer-factor," I'm ready to do something different. There are times I've thought that I've become a cliche and a personal growth junkie. The kind of junkie that spends time "learning and growing" but is actually not DOING anything but listening to others.
Like a person who has a goal to start running ... buys running shoes, buys running clothes, researches running routes, reads about injury prevention, researches running groups BUT NEVER ACTUALLY RUNS.
Then I remember I'm also DOING too. I have to focus on that because I could see myself falling into the former category at times. I listen to podcasts with net-zero time -- I'm driving, cooking dinner, cleaning, dog walking. It's a fun adjunct to those times, not an excuse to avoid DOING.
I have some fun and inexpensive monthly accountability "programs" in place. Gretchen Rubin's Happiness Project with a one hour live monthly call ($10/month) and Rachel Hollis' monthly 2 hour coaching ($31/month if you join for the year). That's worth it to me. Maybe someday I'll try Brooke Castillo, but not now.
IN RADICALLY DIFFERENT NEWS ... (because I've totally over-talked personal growth) ...
I was a sofa-surfer total couch-slug yesterday. Why?? I started watching Netflix's YOU. It's crazy good so far - Gone Girl style of suspense with thought dialogue running constantly. The dude is nuts, but somehow likable too. Seems like everyone has SOMETHING that's a bit off. I have no idea if it ends well (you know that's my hallmark for a good movie, TV show, book), but I'm hooked.
It's funny because Tuesday was a day of ALL THE HEALTHY THINGS. RH 2 hour live coaching, PHB call, meditation, workout, outside walk, time with my kids (I was unstoppable). Yesterday was, well, NOT that!! I'd say it was BALANCE, but it feels like it was an unexpected CRASH. I thought I'd just check out one episode to see what the fuss was about and suddenly it was 10 o'clock. Oops. Netflix for the win.
I chose my next non-fiction book. Seat of the Soul -- I've read it years and years ago, but never understood it. It's on my 19 for 2019 list and I was ready for a break from habit/goal books. I nailed the introduction LOL. I'm curious if it will make more sense now.
My leg is a mess from the walk with my friend - still. UGH. It's a bother that every workout involves going to the gym right now. Guess I should be grateful that's an option.
Today, I'm heading to the noon boxing class. A few weeks ago, an instructor subbed and I loved her class. She subbed on Tuesday, but I had just finished my elliptical workout. I asked if she taught regularly and it's Thursday at noon. At first, I thought: no way, too late. Then, I thought: why not. I used to go to lifting classes at noon -- how is this different. Can't hurt to try.
The rest of the day is rescue calls and, let's be honest, a couple more episodes of YOU!! I'm limiting it to two and can't start until after dinner or the day will be a repeat of yesterday. Fool me once, Netflix ...
Thursday already - and that means a new podcast from Brooke Castillo. Awesome - she's my favorite! Hope it's a good one. Later gators.
Wednesday, January 16, 2019
Goodbye, PHB
Project Healthy Body (PHB) -- 5 months, lots of homework, weekly phone conversations, great coach, new connections and one ape-shit crazy founder.
Here we go ...
Sitting on this side -- knowing what it's all about, I can't say I'd do it again (if I had that choice). It was a boat ton of money once you "see" the entire program and assess it's value. If you see prices of other programs, it's a bit of sticker shock. That said, the other programs I've priced don't give you as much personal time, feedback and accountability, but these "bigger" programs have better content. Jennifer's program is a little garage start-up like with the content. Nothing is really original (ideas from the big names slightly reworded and claimed as her brainchild), but she "finds" sources that I wouldn't have necessarily noticed myself.
Most of the actual learning came from the stuff I did outside of the program or from extra sources from Holly. I credit PHB with a six-degrees of separation though. I wouldn't have found that path without a starting point from somewhere within the program itself (i.e. someone mentioned a good podcast which led me to a good book which led me to a good lesson -- that kind of thing).
My coach, Holly is fantastic and I wouldn't hesitate to hire her again or recommend her. My accountability partner, Darcie is also great and a lot of the program's value came from our conversations and connection (others weren't so lucky - so that's a bonus, not a given).
Hands down the best part of PHB is the ACCOUNTABILITY. It forced me to stay the course, do the work -- even if I didn't feel like it -- even if I didn't feel I needed it. Lots of my OWN work, but still the stuff I needed to do and couldn't seem to get any traction.
Most of the content was TED talks on YouTube, articles and some podcasts. Homework was lots of journaling on the week's topic. There's value in writing stuff down, reading it out loud and getting feedback. Some of the journal assignments were helpful (some didn't resonate with me) and that's true of most personal growth coaching.
What I learned during these 5 months:
Feel my feelings (even the ugly ones are okay)
Keep doing the work. Little things done daily add up to a changed life.
Ability to direct my thoughts - stop negative thought-loops (Brooke Castillo)
Accept what IS (Byron Katie)
The Universe works for me, not against me
Problem solve - even the littlest of "problems" -- be a FIXER
Podcast junkie!!
Reminder to ALWAYS think for yourself.
"Hearing" other people's inner dialog is eye-opening. Personal struggles are universal.
Now the downside. I've talked about the founder, Jennifer before in another post and my personal interaction with her was shocking, given her profession especially. She's done a number of things that didn't sit well with me, but I thought it WAS me. She's a personal coach and no way she'd act with malice over simple things -- but she did and does. LESSON - follow your gut and never follow blindly! It pinged me from very early on and turns out, it was right (and I'm not the only one with shocking experiences or pinging guts).
Her latest drama involved "bringing down Melissa Hartwig Urban" (of W30 fame). Melissa wrote an Instagram post about how people should find other things to compliment women on rather than only weight loss. Her intention was to say -- we are all more than our weight. A few of PHB coaches (and some other people) took offensive to the suggestion and interrupted this to mean weight loss isn't worthy of a compliment. There was a respectful conversation, including Jennifer, and it seemed like it smoothed out.
BUT, Jennifer posted on our private network that "she took Melissa down" and needed to unfollow her on social media. Jennifer is a Whole30 certified coach and is currently offering a Whole30 (for a fee) through PHB. No reason to post that to her PHB clients (and BTW, too chicken to post that on Instagram publicly). And, if you remember, the big issue Jennifer had with me was unfollowing her on Instagram. Wow. She be crazy as shit!! And unprofessional and not a person I want to know.
This leaves me with a bad taste for the program, the branding, etc. I wouldn't have recommended the program regardless (specifically because it's too expense for what it is), but I certainly won't now. I need to decide if I should delete the network from my computer. I had to stick with it until the program was over -- and now it's finished! I might lose some connection with my small circle group, but it's probably necessary. I only want to look at it to hate on Jennifer. Not exactly higher level intentions by me. I'll probably stay on it for a little bit to see if there are updates, etc and then sever the final bit from Jennifer.
The bottom line ... I'm glad I went through the program. I think it was a good start on a better path and I credit this experience for starting that process. Holly is a rockstar coach and a great person. I learned a lot about myself -- in ways I never expected -- from the coaching and from the experience with Jennifer. You can learn a lot from an ANTI-HERO too.
Later gators.
Here we go ...
Sitting on this side -- knowing what it's all about, I can't say I'd do it again (if I had that choice). It was a boat ton of money once you "see" the entire program and assess it's value. If you see prices of other programs, it's a bit of sticker shock. That said, the other programs I've priced don't give you as much personal time, feedback and accountability, but these "bigger" programs have better content. Jennifer's program is a little garage start-up like with the content. Nothing is really original (ideas from the big names slightly reworded and claimed as her brainchild), but she "finds" sources that I wouldn't have necessarily noticed myself.
Most of the actual learning came from the stuff I did outside of the program or from extra sources from Holly. I credit PHB with a six-degrees of separation though. I wouldn't have found that path without a starting point from somewhere within the program itself (i.e. someone mentioned a good podcast which led me to a good book which led me to a good lesson -- that kind of thing).
My coach, Holly is fantastic and I wouldn't hesitate to hire her again or recommend her. My accountability partner, Darcie is also great and a lot of the program's value came from our conversations and connection (others weren't so lucky - so that's a bonus, not a given).
Hands down the best part of PHB is the ACCOUNTABILITY. It forced me to stay the course, do the work -- even if I didn't feel like it -- even if I didn't feel I needed it. Lots of my OWN work, but still the stuff I needed to do and couldn't seem to get any traction.
Most of the content was TED talks on YouTube, articles and some podcasts. Homework was lots of journaling on the week's topic. There's value in writing stuff down, reading it out loud and getting feedback. Some of the journal assignments were helpful (some didn't resonate with me) and that's true of most personal growth coaching.
What I learned during these 5 months:
Feel my feelings (even the ugly ones are okay)
Keep doing the work. Little things done daily add up to a changed life.
Ability to direct my thoughts - stop negative thought-loops (Brooke Castillo)
Accept what IS (Byron Katie)
The Universe works for me, not against me
Problem solve - even the littlest of "problems" -- be a FIXER
Podcast junkie!!
Reminder to ALWAYS think for yourself.
"Hearing" other people's inner dialog is eye-opening. Personal struggles are universal.
Now the downside. I've talked about the founder, Jennifer before in another post and my personal interaction with her was shocking, given her profession especially. She's done a number of things that didn't sit well with me, but I thought it WAS me. She's a personal coach and no way she'd act with malice over simple things -- but she did and does. LESSON - follow your gut and never follow blindly! It pinged me from very early on and turns out, it was right (and I'm not the only one with shocking experiences or pinging guts).
Her latest drama involved "bringing down Melissa Hartwig Urban" (of W30 fame). Melissa wrote an Instagram post about how people should find other things to compliment women on rather than only weight loss. Her intention was to say -- we are all more than our weight. A few of PHB coaches (and some other people) took offensive to the suggestion and interrupted this to mean weight loss isn't worthy of a compliment. There was a respectful conversation, including Jennifer, and it seemed like it smoothed out.
BUT, Jennifer posted on our private network that "she took Melissa down" and needed to unfollow her on social media. Jennifer is a Whole30 certified coach and is currently offering a Whole30 (for a fee) through PHB. No reason to post that to her PHB clients (and BTW, too chicken to post that on Instagram publicly). And, if you remember, the big issue Jennifer had with me was unfollowing her on Instagram. Wow. She be crazy as shit!! And unprofessional and not a person I want to know.
This leaves me with a bad taste for the program, the branding, etc. I wouldn't have recommended the program regardless (specifically because it's too expense for what it is), but I certainly won't now. I need to decide if I should delete the network from my computer. I had to stick with it until the program was over -- and now it's finished! I might lose some connection with my small circle group, but it's probably necessary. I only want to look at it to hate on Jennifer. Not exactly higher level intentions by me. I'll probably stay on it for a little bit to see if there are updates, etc and then sever the final bit from Jennifer.
The bottom line ... I'm glad I went through the program. I think it was a good start on a better path and I credit this experience for starting that process. Holly is a rockstar coach and a great person. I learned a lot about myself -- in ways I never expected -- from the coaching and from the experience with Jennifer. You can learn a lot from an ANTI-HERO too.
Later gators.
Tuesday, January 15, 2019
Thank you, Apple Ladies
Amazon Prime came through with an excellent delivery time; knock-off charger works. I decided to quit goofing around and call Apple Support to fix the other problems.
Another Apple Support Lady and my computer is back in business. I mentioned I always get a female tech support and it makes me happy - go ladies. She said most of the phone support are women because the men are too antsy to talk on the phone LOL.
It takes a VILLAGE to manage my tech insufficiencies. It's NOT my superpower.
Deep breath. Problem-s solved and I feel good!
I was riding the HIGH of something off my pain-in-the-ass list so I continued and handled some other things on that list too. Once a month (or so) I need to spend an afternoon working down the CRAPPY to-do list.
Onward ...
Today is a ME day -- hitting all the facets.
First, heading to the gym for an elliptical workout. It's a push for me because the machine is making sounds of a dying animal -- with every stride. No quietly doing my thang. It draws attention from everyone and I feel like a fish out of water. I'm actually a bit concerned it's going to have an out-of-order sign today. BUT, I'm still doing going for SOME workout.
Then, home to the computer (now happily working). Rachel Hollis has her first life coach live video training - 2 hours long. The first month is included with RISE tickets. Each month is $37 for the life coaching (more for business coaching). I might try some of the other months if it's good - she has a list of the topics for each month.
PHB FINAL call tonight. Bitter sweet. Probably equal parts bitter and sweet at this point. Jennifer struck again -- not to me personally this time, but man, she's a wacko. I'll do a recap of my experience and give the 4-1-1 on her latest.
In-between is a walk and catch up with a good girlfriend. She's into personal growth right now too, so I know we'll be chatting some interesting stuff. The walk immediately followed by helping eldest proofread his revised resume. Both kids are looking for new jobs. Full day.
Other updates ... finished Why You Are Fat and my recommendation is DON'T read it. It seemed to get better for a hot minute and then dove back to crappy land. Boring (nothing but study after study), self-serving (look at how smart I am over all the "experts"), condescending (stop eating carbs and being fat is solved - it's simple; shut up dude) and I don't trust his rationales (even if I sort of agree with SOME of his conclusions). I'm super duper surprised this had such an impact on Gretchen Rubin. Always okay to disagree and always necessary to think for yourself. That's my takeaway.
I have a line of NEXT books to read, but I want to get a little further along in A Little Life. It's not bad, just sad (had to go for the rhyme). Actually more dark than sad. You read it and feel disturbed. I see how the story and details would get critical acclaim though. I'm not in the mood for 800 pages of gloom. (Normally, I'd stop reading, but since my bff bought it for me, I'm going to finish it.)
Best get started on my day. Make it an awesome one - later gators.
Another Apple Support Lady and my computer is back in business. I mentioned I always get a female tech support and it makes me happy - go ladies. She said most of the phone support are women because the men are too antsy to talk on the phone LOL.
It takes a VILLAGE to manage my tech insufficiencies. It's NOT my superpower.
Deep breath. Problem-s solved and I feel good!
I was riding the HIGH of something off my pain-in-the-ass list so I continued and handled some other things on that list too. Once a month (or so) I need to spend an afternoon working down the CRAPPY to-do list.
Onward ...
Today is a ME day -- hitting all the facets.
First, heading to the gym for an elliptical workout. It's a push for me because the machine is making sounds of a dying animal -- with every stride. No quietly doing my thang. It draws attention from everyone and I feel like a fish out of water. I'm actually a bit concerned it's going to have an out-of-order sign today. BUT, I'm still doing going for SOME workout.
Then, home to the computer (now happily working). Rachel Hollis has her first life coach live video training - 2 hours long. The first month is included with RISE tickets. Each month is $37 for the life coaching (more for business coaching). I might try some of the other months if it's good - she has a list of the topics for each month.
PHB FINAL call tonight. Bitter sweet. Probably equal parts bitter and sweet at this point. Jennifer struck again -- not to me personally this time, but man, she's a wacko. I'll do a recap of my experience and give the 4-1-1 on her latest.
In-between is a walk and catch up with a good girlfriend. She's into personal growth right now too, so I know we'll be chatting some interesting stuff. The walk immediately followed by helping eldest proofread his revised resume. Both kids are looking for new jobs. Full day.
Other updates ... finished Why You Are Fat and my recommendation is DON'T read it. It seemed to get better for a hot minute and then dove back to crappy land. Boring (nothing but study after study), self-serving (look at how smart I am over all the "experts"), condescending (stop eating carbs and being fat is solved - it's simple; shut up dude) and I don't trust his rationales (even if I sort of agree with SOME of his conclusions). I'm super duper surprised this had such an impact on Gretchen Rubin. Always okay to disagree and always necessary to think for yourself. That's my takeaway.
I have a line of NEXT books to read, but I want to get a little further along in A Little Life. It's not bad, just sad (had to go for the rhyme). Actually more dark than sad. You read it and feel disturbed. I see how the story and details would get critical acclaim though. I'm not in the mood for 800 pages of gloom. (Normally, I'd stop reading, but since my bff bought it for me, I'm going to finish it.)
Best get started on my day. Make it an awesome one - later gators.
Monday, January 14, 2019
I'm Alive, Just Computer Woes
In the latest of many computer issues, my charger broke. I have no way to charge the computer until Amazon Prime comes to the rescue; therefore, conserving all remaining 57% battery.
Hope to be back at it Tuesday (Wednesday at the latest).
Rather than getting an Apple charger for $80, we went with a knock-off for $20. Wish me luck.
P.S. Hopefully it's the mangled looking charger and not my computer.
Hope to be back at it Tuesday (Wednesday at the latest).
Rather than getting an Apple charger for $80, we went with a knock-off for $20. Wish me luck.
P.S. Hopefully it's the mangled looking charger and not my computer.
Friday, January 11, 2019
Podcast Learning
I had lots of podcast time yesterday and I hit on a super good one.
Many of Rachel Hollis' podcasts aren't for me - lots of small business talk and how she does her branding. Great for those who need that advice, but not applicable for me. I still like to check in every once in a while and see if PERSONAL GROWTH hits the podcast.
#69 Rachel Hollis interviewed by Ed Mylett (November 6, 2018)
I think it's totally worth listening to and these snippets won't do it justice without all the talk behind it, but here are the notes I took (yep - so good, I took notes!!).
(1) That TUG you feel about doing something, the tug that won't go away ...
.... that's your HEART begging your MIND to get out of the way. (I've had this so many times - run a marathon, go to nursing school, etc. Always took me time to get my brain on board with what my heart already knew.)
(2) Every life has major influencers: a HERO or an ANTI-HERO. YES!! Anti-hero. We can be blessed by the difficult relationships - they're our anti-heroes and can affect incredible growth, change, motivation. We can be thankful for the role our anti-heroes played in shaping us (different than excusing the behavior).
(3) Girls are often taught their value is in how valuable they are to others: good wife, good mother, good friend, good sister, good employee. It's up to us to believe we are good for who we are to ourselves.
(4) You'll find a way or an excuse (she mentioned this great quote - worth repeating).
(5) In this age of FREE information (internet), ignorance is a choice. (I think she was quoting someone else on this too.)
(5) You will know my faith (or religion or that I'm Christian) by the way I live my life and that's what matters. Not the details of my religion.
(6) Be a FIXER. (I might change my word for 2019 to FIXER!). Solving "problems" has been one of the top changes I made in 2018. I still need to be reminded of it. Having a bad mood? It's usually something I need to fix - often something small and easy. I might do a post on this - it's been that significant. Too hard to explain in a quick paragraph.
I also did some reading. The 2 books I'm currently reading are clogging the works. Neither is amazing to me, but I want to finish both. I want to HAVE READ, but I don't actually WANT to READ! The Little Life because my bff gave me the book. Why We Get Fat because Gretchen Rubin was so pumped about it. Both are getting a little better so fingers crossed.
Time to start the crockpot pork recipe from the Whole30 cookbook -- it has 10 hours of cooking time (if it's good, I'll give the details). I'm using the Instant Pot to do another pork recipe from Nom Nom Paleo. First of the cooking beginning today. Full day today, but nothing hard. Happy Friday! Later gators.
Many of Rachel Hollis' podcasts aren't for me - lots of small business talk and how she does her branding. Great for those who need that advice, but not applicable for me. I still like to check in every once in a while and see if PERSONAL GROWTH hits the podcast.
#69 Rachel Hollis interviewed by Ed Mylett (November 6, 2018)
I think it's totally worth listening to and these snippets won't do it justice without all the talk behind it, but here are the notes I took (yep - so good, I took notes!!).
(1) That TUG you feel about doing something, the tug that won't go away ...
.... that's your HEART begging your MIND to get out of the way. (I've had this so many times - run a marathon, go to nursing school, etc. Always took me time to get my brain on board with what my heart already knew.)
(2) Every life has major influencers: a HERO or an ANTI-HERO. YES!! Anti-hero. We can be blessed by the difficult relationships - they're our anti-heroes and can affect incredible growth, change, motivation. We can be thankful for the role our anti-heroes played in shaping us (different than excusing the behavior).
(3) Girls are often taught their value is in how valuable they are to others: good wife, good mother, good friend, good sister, good employee. It's up to us to believe we are good for who we are to ourselves.
(4) You'll find a way or an excuse (she mentioned this great quote - worth repeating).
(5) In this age of FREE information (internet), ignorance is a choice. (I think she was quoting someone else on this too.)
(5) You will know my faith (or religion or that I'm Christian) by the way I live my life and that's what matters. Not the details of my religion.
(6) Be a FIXER. (I might change my word for 2019 to FIXER!). Solving "problems" has been one of the top changes I made in 2018. I still need to be reminded of it. Having a bad mood? It's usually something I need to fix - often something small and easy. I might do a post on this - it's been that significant. Too hard to explain in a quick paragraph.
I also did some reading. The 2 books I'm currently reading are clogging the works. Neither is amazing to me, but I want to finish both. I want to HAVE READ, but I don't actually WANT to READ! The Little Life because my bff gave me the book. Why We Get Fat because Gretchen Rubin was so pumped about it. Both are getting a little better so fingers crossed.
Time to start the crockpot pork recipe from the Whole30 cookbook -- it has 10 hours of cooking time (if it's good, I'll give the details). I'm using the Instant Pot to do another pork recipe from Nom Nom Paleo. First of the cooking beginning today. Full day today, but nothing hard. Happy Friday! Later gators.
Thursday, January 10, 2019
Made for More - RISE Movie
Boy, I dislike staying up late -- even for something terrific. I've become THAT person. Home and jammies by 8 o'clock 7 o'clock and I'm a happy camper. Unless I'm already out and oblivious to the actual time, it's painful to wait around to leave the house.
BUT, it was really good! I think I officially have a girl crush. Rachel Hollis -- entertaining, funny, motivating, real. I'm so excited to see her live in June.
I still can't figure out why I don't like her book: Girl Wash Your Face. I'm going to read it again before the conference with my girl crush eyes and see if that changes anything. She has a new book out in March too.
She's an odd bird in the best way - someone you'd want to be friends with and know in real life. I'm thankful Darcie encouraged me to "see" her beyond the book.
________________________________________________________________________
Let's talk boxing.
I decided to go 2 days in a row for boxing because of the instructor schedule (avoiding my injury guy) and my dentist appointment this morning. Guess what the Universe decided??
It was THE instructor and his constant right leg kicks and I was the ONLY one there! Thanks a lot, Universe. After the warm-up, another lady came - super fit, pretty and totally took attention off me - yea. We ended up hitting pads in the sparring ring. It was fun, but not what I was looking for and I was super annoyed.
But then ...
I eye-spied an elliptical machine in the corner. I used it for 12 minutes during the core part of the workout and my leg felt the same (no pain using it at all). Oh, cardio how I missed you my sweet friend!! Bam! Going to use it at the boxing gym until I can run again.
I'm issuing a heartfelt apology to the Universe for being pissy -- turns out you were working for me all along. I never would have found the elliptical if not for the "special" class today. Love, ME.
________________________________________________________________________
Today, I'm doing a quick elliptical workout before the dentist. Tomorrow the morning is too tight and so I'll go for it again today. I have a Trader Joe's run so I can get at the cook-up from all the Costco meat. I finished my using up my freezer stash and it's time to stock up for the winter.
Everyone is up this morning and going into work late - got to run. Have a fantastic day. Later gators.
P.S. I'll leave you with a video of Aspen. She's finally showing some interest in people. When I came home last night, she jumped and danced for me!! Don't know how well this video will load, but I'll give it a try. It needs to play on MUTE because my dog-voice is annoying LOL!
BUT, it was really good! I think I officially have a girl crush. Rachel Hollis -- entertaining, funny, motivating, real. I'm so excited to see her live in June.
I still can't figure out why I don't like her book: Girl Wash Your Face. I'm going to read it again before the conference with my girl crush eyes and see if that changes anything. She has a new book out in March too.
She's an odd bird in the best way - someone you'd want to be friends with and know in real life. I'm thankful Darcie encouraged me to "see" her beyond the book.
________________________________________________________________________
Let's talk boxing.
I decided to go 2 days in a row for boxing because of the instructor schedule (avoiding my injury guy) and my dentist appointment this morning. Guess what the Universe decided??
It was THE instructor and his constant right leg kicks and I was the ONLY one there! Thanks a lot, Universe. After the warm-up, another lady came - super fit, pretty and totally took attention off me - yea. We ended up hitting pads in the sparring ring. It was fun, but not what I was looking for and I was super annoyed.
But then ...
I eye-spied an elliptical machine in the corner. I used it for 12 minutes during the core part of the workout and my leg felt the same (no pain using it at all). Oh, cardio how I missed you my sweet friend!! Bam! Going to use it at the boxing gym until I can run again.
I'm issuing a heartfelt apology to the Universe for being pissy -- turns out you were working for me all along. I never would have found the elliptical if not for the "special" class today. Love, ME.
________________________________________________________________________
Today, I'm doing a quick elliptical workout before the dentist. Tomorrow the morning is too tight and so I'll go for it again today. I have a Trader Joe's run so I can get at the cook-up from all the Costco meat. I finished my using up my freezer stash and it's time to stock up for the winter.
Everyone is up this morning and going into work late - got to run. Have a fantastic day. Later gators.
P.S. I'll leave you with a video of Aspen. She's finally showing some interest in people. When I came home last night, she jumped and danced for me!! Don't know how well this video will load, but I'll give it a try. It needs to play on MUTE because my dog-voice is annoying LOL!
Wednesday, January 9, 2019
Movie Night!
Made for More -- Rachel Hollis. It's the documentary of the RISE conference. Darcie recommended I see it before going in June. She saw it last year and loved it. Two days in the theaters (because Netflix wouldn't pick it up). I learned on RH Instagram that following the movie is a 30 minute coaching session on the big screen. It's going to be a late night!
We had our second to last PHB call last night and it was good. I'm going to miss the connection with these ladies. 2 are continuing on and Darcie and I are leaving the program. I'm sure I'll do a wrap up post after the big good-bye. Warts and joys.
I did better with my eating yesterday. Better, not great. I had some crackers to "round-out" dinner and my joints are still in a gluten-hates-me moment. Somehow, I thought it was a good idea. P.S. I ate the crackers standing at the counter. Good lord. P.P.S. They're gone now.
That said, I'm feeling some strong motivation today. Friday, we have letters we wrote to ourselves in the first half of the program emailing to us (Future Me). While I don't remember the specifics of the letter (now I need memory coaching LOL), I know it DOESN'T say struggling to get back on track, feeling low energy, breaking daily promises. Tuesday is a focus day - be back to myself and read the letter proudly!!
And, of course, the documentary tonight should be a big shot-in-the-arm MOTIVATION too. I need all I can get.
I have a Groundhog Day repeat today. Boxing with the same instructor and lunch at the same place (with a different friend). Boxing because tomorrow is the instructor I blame for my injury (he does so many right-legged kicks even in the boxing classes) and I'd have to go to the early class because I have a dentist appointment. Lunch was suggested by my friend and I want to go somewhere different, but she was excited for this place (I love it too, so no big deal).
Here's a quote to end today. It's not specifically relevant in this exact moment, but it's struck a chord when I read it.
Movie review coming tomorrow! Later gators.
We had our second to last PHB call last night and it was good. I'm going to miss the connection with these ladies. 2 are continuing on and Darcie and I are leaving the program. I'm sure I'll do a wrap up post after the big good-bye. Warts and joys.
I did better with my eating yesterday. Better, not great. I had some crackers to "round-out" dinner and my joints are still in a gluten-hates-me moment. Somehow, I thought it was a good idea. P.S. I ate the crackers standing at the counter. Good lord. P.P.S. They're gone now.
That said, I'm feeling some strong motivation today. Friday, we have letters we wrote to ourselves in the first half of the program emailing to us (Future Me). While I don't remember the specifics of the letter (now I need memory coaching LOL), I know it DOESN'T say struggling to get back on track, feeling low energy, breaking daily promises. Tuesday is a focus day - be back to myself and read the letter proudly!!
And, of course, the documentary tonight should be a big shot-in-the-arm MOTIVATION too. I need all I can get.
I have a Groundhog Day repeat today. Boxing with the same instructor and lunch at the same place (with a different friend). Boxing because tomorrow is the instructor I blame for my injury (he does so many right-legged kicks even in the boxing classes) and I'd have to go to the early class because I have a dentist appointment. Lunch was suggested by my friend and I want to go somewhere different, but she was excited for this place (I love it too, so no big deal).
Here's a quote to end today. It's not specifically relevant in this exact moment, but it's struck a chord when I read it.
Movie review coming tomorrow! Later gators.
Tuesday, January 8, 2019
Inspirational Meme to the Rescue
Thank you Inspirational Meme -- I love a good one-liner with the power to change everything.
It's that simple and that hard. I'm working The HARD, hard. It's time (and overdue).
And, because I report both sides ....
... keeping Inspirational Memes balanced and fair. This is an oldie, but goodie.
Holy crap on a log, yesterday was a struggle and it started before 10am. Witching hours all day?!?!? With a day of NOTHING on the calendar (even my to-do list was simple), I can use that freedom for good or evil. I knew what had potential so I proactively clear-out some junk food munchies in the cabinet and forced myself to stay clear of the grocery stores with my evil mindset of SNACKS!
I had a great meditation. 15 minutes and it went by so fast - I probably could have done 20. Intention for the mediation - H E L P!! I'm sick of saying I'll do better and then falling short. Time to do better ... period.
The struggle started early with CRAVINGS out the wazoo. I didn't even want my green drink (but I had it anyway). This is by my own hand and I know it. Fool me 10,000 times and maybe I'll catch on LOL. I'm sick of telling this same story, sick of reading it on my posts and sick of living it. Yet, here I am again. Yep, crap on a log.
I'd give myself a solid 'B' for the day. Not bad considering I'd been hovering in failing territory.
Why not an 'A' ... well, I remembered the Vitamin has a frozen mode. I took a pre-measured pack of Costco frozen fruit designed for smoothies (it's nice, if you happen to need it - organic strawberries, mango and banana) and 1/2 can of coconut milk that was set to expire in February and made "ice cream." OMG! It was insanely good. Creamy, not sweet and delicious. It was my last can of coconut milk and that's a good thing. It was a SNACK when I wasn't hungry - that's why the grade-level deduction hahaha! (All in the name of not wasting the can of coconut milk - yea, sure that's the reason.)
But, let's talk other things.
RISE movie tomorrow night and it's SOLD OUT!! Wow - that's crazy. I guess Rachel Hollis is the next big thing. I can thank Darcie for getting me in early for the RH craze. I'm so excited to see it. I haven't been to a sold out theater in years. There's going to be some energy happening! I go back-and-forth on whether I'm pleased to be going by myself or not. Don't have a choice so no point in giving it thought. I'm glad I'm by myself, but I kind of feel like a loser without a friend along.
I'm all over the map with my READING. The book my bestie sent me (over 700 pages) is dark - The Little Life. I feel obligated to read it, but it wouldn't be my choice right now. I tabled GR Happier at Home -- I'll wait until her program starts later this month. I decided to read the book she says is the reason she gave up sugar -- I thought some validation on my dessert thing sounded good.
So far, I DON'T like the book (about a 1/3 finished). Why We Get Fat -- Gary Taubes. The reviews are above average, but many say it's the second half of the book that's good. I'll give it a bit more time, then moving on. GR said it's a book about insulin and the body. So far, study after study that I feel have a strong bias and focus on isolated exceptions that he interprets for the general population. And, I agree with the insulin-sugar situation -- still don't like it. Do better, Gary.
Last little fun thing. I'm into VINTAGE clutches (and small) bags on ETSY. I search for cheap ones - under 10 bucks and it's fun to use them. I got a new one that's really pretty and in great shape. I'm going to use it for an interior bag when I use a smaller purse (travel or a night out). It's perfect for ID, lip gloss and powder. Too small to fit my big phone, so I can't use it as a stand alone.
 |
| 1970's - the fabric embroidery is so pretty |
It's part of my "TREAT Program" (not to be confused with REWARDS). If I have some fun treats in my day, I'm so much less inclined to turn to food. (Rewards would be conditional on "good" behavior, treats are not.) Program is still in development LOL. I don't know why I'm dragging my feet getting this going full force. It's FUN! I think I'm still looking at it a little bit like a reward, not a treat. (P.S. in this case, the treat is the search for the bag - I usually don't find one, but the hunt is fun.)
I've rambled a lot this morning. Boxing class (with a my favorite substitute -yea) and an early lunch with a friend and my PHB call today. I'm not a fan of an early lunch, but going with the flow. It's going to be a great conversation - always is with her.
Happy Normal-Not-A-Holiday Tuesday. Hope it's regular and fabulous. Later gators.
Monday, January 7, 2019
Fickle as a Pickle
Posting hit a little speed bump this weekend.
First:
I posted on Saturday a long post about changing up how I do my afternoon goals -- 5 days after I started it. I was SURE of the change (the meditation gods had spoken), but then I tried it and didn't like it at all. (Well played Universe ... laugh away ...)
Yep, fickle as a pickle. So I edited the post and deleted the stuff about changing up the goals because it seemed useless. I thought I wanted to switch to writing goals about that day, not goals about years. I was wrong - I think. Guess this is a learning process?!?!?
Second:
I started a post yesterday after hubby left for golf and, wham, youngest came downstairs and asked me to help him with an update on his resume so he could apply for a new job. Ugh. That was painful and derailed my post.
So here we are ... MONDAY. Posting back to normal. Family at work. Me with my coffee and lemon water.
I might have been fickle about the goal changes, but I did a 5-4-3-2-1 and went to the boxing class on Saturday. Every bag was used. Some people doubled up on a bag. 4 instructors. 75 minute class. It was amazing! The energy, fun, laughing ... got to punch with the pads (hand and chest pads). I can't tell you how glad I am that I tried it. I decided that while my leg is a problem, I could always modify so my reasoning for NOT wanting to go was really about feeling out of my element. Huge gold star win for me on Saturday. I can't wait for next Saturday's class!
My leg is still a problem and I can only box a few days a week without it hurting my arms (in a bad way). I'm delicate, apparently. That's leaving me high and dry the other days for a workout. I want so much to try a run, but my leg still hurts when I walk quickly. I'm really at a loss. I think one more week of leg rest to see where that gets me. The next option is a temporary gym membership so I can use the elliptical. I can't do arms in-between boxing days - it's too much on my arms. Ugh and double ugh.
I don't feel like I have my shit together yet. (I think the workout situation is a big part of it.) I'm continuing to plug along with some wins and some losses (hello evening - I'm looking at YOU).
This is a GOOD week to turn the tide the entire way. PHB call (only 2 left), RH RISE movie (Wednesday), tons of time for self-care (including dentist - bummer on this one). No excuses and lots of motivation and inspiration for the taking.
Can she do it? Will she do it? Lord knows I hope so and I am trying. Guess I need to DO, not try. DECIDE, not hope. Why does it sound so simple, yet it's hard as $@#%?????
Happy Monday folks ... sunshine, warm day, nothing on the calendar ... this could go either way (let's be honest). My choice. (Which is half the problem LOL) Later gators.
First:
I posted on Saturday a long post about changing up how I do my afternoon goals -- 5 days after I started it. I was SURE of the change (the meditation gods had spoken), but then I tried it and didn't like it at all. (Well played Universe ... laugh away ...)
Yep, fickle as a pickle. So I edited the post and deleted the stuff about changing up the goals because it seemed useless. I thought I wanted to switch to writing goals about that day, not goals about years. I was wrong - I think. Guess this is a learning process?!?!?
Second:
I started a post yesterday after hubby left for golf and, wham, youngest came downstairs and asked me to help him with an update on his resume so he could apply for a new job. Ugh. That was painful and derailed my post.
So here we are ... MONDAY. Posting back to normal. Family at work. Me with my coffee and lemon water.
I might have been fickle about the goal changes, but I did a 5-4-3-2-1 and went to the boxing class on Saturday. Every bag was used. Some people doubled up on a bag. 4 instructors. 75 minute class. It was amazing! The energy, fun, laughing ... got to punch with the pads (hand and chest pads). I can't tell you how glad I am that I tried it. I decided that while my leg is a problem, I could always modify so my reasoning for NOT wanting to go was really about feeling out of my element. Huge gold star win for me on Saturday. I can't wait for next Saturday's class!
My leg is still a problem and I can only box a few days a week without it hurting my arms (in a bad way). I'm delicate, apparently. That's leaving me high and dry the other days for a workout. I want so much to try a run, but my leg still hurts when I walk quickly. I'm really at a loss. I think one more week of leg rest to see where that gets me. The next option is a temporary gym membership so I can use the elliptical. I can't do arms in-between boxing days - it's too much on my arms. Ugh and double ugh.
I don't feel like I have my shit together yet. (I think the workout situation is a big part of it.) I'm continuing to plug along with some wins and some losses (hello evening - I'm looking at YOU).
This is a GOOD week to turn the tide the entire way. PHB call (only 2 left), RH RISE movie (Wednesday), tons of time for self-care (including dentist - bummer on this one). No excuses and lots of motivation and inspiration for the taking.
Can she do it? Will she do it? Lord knows I hope so and I am trying. Guess I need to DO, not try. DECIDE, not hope. Why does it sound so simple, yet it's hard as $@#%?????
Happy Monday folks ... sunshine, warm day, nothing on the calendar ... this could go either way (let's be honest). My choice. (Which is half the problem LOL) Later gators.
Saturday, January 5, 2019
Happy Saturday! Quick hello ...
I forced myself up this morning. It stays dark in Atlanta in the mornings and I was sleeping an extra hour or so this week. Didn't have long workouts to do, so why not. Not a habit I want to hold -- so alarm today at 6 am. Back to regular hours.
No workout yesterday and it was painful to say NO. A walk wasn't a good idea. I need to completely rest my leg or I'll keep heading backwards. Today is arms and abs. MAYBE at boxing. The trouble with Saturday is the class is 75 minutes. That's long for me and I'm worried it's too much -- it's a legitimate worry.
BUT ...
I'm also chicken-shit too -- and I'm trying to figure out if that's the hesitation. Saturday brings out the fit, younger men who are a little crazy on the bags. It's crowded with complicated routines (so the owner told me). When there're men in class it's hard to hear the instructor because they are hitting the bags loud and hard. So loud it makes me jump sometimes hahahaha!! And that's with a couple of men - I can't imagine a roomful!
I'm leaning to 5-4-3-2-1 and JUST GO! I can always sag out it it's too hard and if I go early enough, I can probably get "my bag" on the end. The one thing I know for sure is NO ONE will be watching ME! These guys are so focused on the bag and the mirror LOL.
The rest of weekend is regular and boring -- just what I want. Rescue calls, cooking, Costco. Rumor has it, the sun will make its first appearance this year too.
Have (and make it) a great weekend! Later gators.
No workout yesterday and it was painful to say NO. A walk wasn't a good idea. I need to completely rest my leg or I'll keep heading backwards. Today is arms and abs. MAYBE at boxing. The trouble with Saturday is the class is 75 minutes. That's long for me and I'm worried it's too much -- it's a legitimate worry.
BUT ...
I'm also chicken-shit too -- and I'm trying to figure out if that's the hesitation. Saturday brings out the fit, younger men who are a little crazy on the bags. It's crowded with complicated routines (so the owner told me). When there're men in class it's hard to hear the instructor because they are hitting the bags loud and hard. So loud it makes me jump sometimes hahahaha!! And that's with a couple of men - I can't imagine a roomful!
I'm leaning to 5-4-3-2-1 and JUST GO! I can always sag out it it's too hard and if I go early enough, I can probably get "my bag" on the end. The one thing I know for sure is NO ONE will be watching ME! These guys are so focused on the bag and the mirror LOL.
The rest of weekend is regular and boring -- just what I want. Rescue calls, cooking, Costco. Rumor has it, the sun will make its first appearance this year too.
Have (and make it) a great weekend! Later gators.
Friday, January 4, 2019
Friday????
I'm so confused still - it feels like another day. I don't know what day, but not Friday. Also, we might need to build The Ark. I enjoy a rainy day, but this rain MUST be getting ready to flood us somewhere, somehow. And don't get me started on little dogs who don't poop outside when it's pouring - oh joys.
Okay, enough ranting.
I have a new podcast to chat about. Homecoming. It's also a Netflix series (developed from the successful podcast). It's FICTION! I didn't know podcasts could be fiction. (Suddenly having deja vu that I already talked about this?!?!? Did I??) Anyway, they're short, suspenseful and not for me to listen to in the car. I got totally too absorbed and felt like I magically arrived at the store. That's not good. I've only listened to one so far, but it's good - like a good government suspense novel good. I had the Netflix series on my short list, but Gretchen Rubin and her sister recommended the podcast so podcast for the win.
Speaking of GR, I bought her book, Happier at Home. I figured I've read everything else, why not this one. So far, I'm struggling to get into it. Strange. I think some has to do with the page feel and the typeface - I don't like either. (I buy self-help books as a book usually, not kindle.) Hopefully, once I get reading, the material will take over and I won't notice the "feel." I'm waiting for her year class to start too.
I think I need to call my Apple ladies for my computer again. Some applications say I need to update my browser (PHB and GR sites - and class is starting soon) and I'm having quirks on my computer again. Dang. It was easy last time, but took up all afternoon. I need my computer today for rescue work. Boo hoo to me.
I'm slowly coming around to being back to "normal" but I'm still having a disappointing evening eating routine. That's my last hurrah -- I'm hitting that goal today. My energy is better, not great (hence the I-don't-want-to-call-the-Apple-hotline-because-I-feel-lazy complaint). Got to do better to feel better.
I boxed yesterday and it felt fantastic. It was my favorite instructor and all boxing. I didn't have to modify much for my leg. Today is kickboxing and the instructor who I secretly blame for my leg injury (3000 right leg roundhouse kicks later) - so no boxing today. I don't think my leg is okay for running yet. My arms and abs are tired from boxing. What's left?? I don't know. I might try a treadmill walk and see how that feels. I don't want to set my leg back for a peewee walk though.
Ending a post is sometimes as hard as coming up with a title. It feels so harsh to end without a good-bye, hence the "later gator." My ramblings came to a screeching halt just now and so this post needs to end. I don't even have a fun picture - sorry. So here's the end ... later gators.
Okay, enough ranting.
I have a new podcast to chat about. Homecoming. It's also a Netflix series (developed from the successful podcast). It's FICTION! I didn't know podcasts could be fiction. (Suddenly having deja vu that I already talked about this?!?!? Did I??) Anyway, they're short, suspenseful and not for me to listen to in the car. I got totally too absorbed and felt like I magically arrived at the store. That's not good. I've only listened to one so far, but it's good - like a good government suspense novel good. I had the Netflix series on my short list, but Gretchen Rubin and her sister recommended the podcast so podcast for the win.
Speaking of GR, I bought her book, Happier at Home. I figured I've read everything else, why not this one. So far, I'm struggling to get into it. Strange. I think some has to do with the page feel and the typeface - I don't like either. (I buy self-help books as a book usually, not kindle.) Hopefully, once I get reading, the material will take over and I won't notice the "feel." I'm waiting for her year class to start too.
I think I need to call my Apple ladies for my computer again. Some applications say I need to update my browser (PHB and GR sites - and class is starting soon) and I'm having quirks on my computer again. Dang. It was easy last time, but took up all afternoon. I need my computer today for rescue work. Boo hoo to me.
I'm slowly coming around to being back to "normal" but I'm still having a disappointing evening eating routine. That's my last hurrah -- I'm hitting that goal today. My energy is better, not great (hence the I-don't-want-to-call-the-Apple-hotline-because-I-feel-lazy complaint). Got to do better to feel better.
I boxed yesterday and it felt fantastic. It was my favorite instructor and all boxing. I didn't have to modify much for my leg. Today is kickboxing and the instructor who I secretly blame for my leg injury (3000 right leg roundhouse kicks later) - so no boxing today. I don't think my leg is okay for running yet. My arms and abs are tired from boxing. What's left?? I don't know. I might try a treadmill walk and see how that feels. I don't want to set my leg back for a peewee walk though.
Ending a post is sometimes as hard as coming up with a title. It feels so harsh to end without a good-bye, hence the "later gator." My ramblings came to a screeching halt just now and so this post needs to end. I don't even have a fun picture - sorry. So here's the end ... later gators.
Thursday, January 3, 2019
Let's Talk GOALS
I know there are multiple camps on New Year's Resolutions. I like January as a time to reset and this year I'm hitting GOALS and future focus heavy too. Heavier than I ever have ... but I don't think of them as NYR. It's a good as time as ever to plan the year ahead and plan my life ahead (for that matter).
The more I read and learn, the more I'm interested in making a plan going forward. I had a plan in life ... lots of the big things. Get married, raise kids, live in a house, save money, become a nurse, run a marathon, travel. You get the idea. Now, I'm finished with most of my "life" plans (or at least active in those plans) and it's time to focus on other things.
Without the distraction of little kids to raise and a career (jury is still out on retirement), I have much more downtime in my brain and turns out my brain likes to be negative, complain-y and mean to me. Who knew??? I didn't notice how bad it had become until I had so much brain downtime.
That's where all this woo-woo stuff comes in -- train my brain in a different way. Time to enjoy the accomplished goals, set new goals and work forward (and be nice to myself along the way).
Here's what I did ...
Gretchen Rubin
I took her suggestions and made a list of 19 things for 2019. Some fun. Some easy. Some necessary to-do list stuff. Things I need and want to get finished in 2019. It's eclectic and specific. Some resemble New Year's Resolutions.
I also gave 2019 a word. SHINE. Everyone is doing a word this year hahahaha. Guess I'm finally on-trend instead of behind. I wrote about it last week and it's on my vision board.
Brooke Castillo and Rachel Hollis
Using RH daily goal planner, I wrote 10 goals. RH suggests focusing on one per year. My goals don't fit that format right now. 10 years ago they did - when we were younger and still in the building season of our life. I never wrote them down, but I had a list in my head (P.S. that worked too). I have some future goals, but I don't need to wait so many years for the rest of them. Does that make sense?
I used Brooke's idea of adding goals I've already achieved in the list too. This helps your mind see abundance and success. I am a nurse.
Some of the goals are more reminders. Be a better friend. That kind of thing.
I am free from desserts. That's GR helping to phrase the goal in the positive. Her sister did this -- free from french fries. If the goal is, "I won't eat dessert," it's received differently in the mind.
Coach Holly and PHB
We did a personal motto for PHB and I included mine in the RH book. It's the most woo-woo of it all, but I wrote it so why not "see" it too. Reminders to be better.
Goals are my afternoon routine addition. I review the lists, think about them, write them down again (in the daily planner). I added the 19 goals to the front of the book and my motto to the back.
At times, this seems dumb. Weirdly trendy and so I-have-nothing-else-to-do-that's-actually-important. Then I listen to successful people (not just life coaches) and THEY do this stuff (like even my neighbor!!!!). Goals, planning, reviewing, routines, self-care, personal growth. Guess it's not dumb. It's at least worth a good honest effort to see how it works for me.
Later gators.
The more I read and learn, the more I'm interested in making a plan going forward. I had a plan in life ... lots of the big things. Get married, raise kids, live in a house, save money, become a nurse, run a marathon, travel. You get the idea. Now, I'm finished with most of my "life" plans (or at least active in those plans) and it's time to focus on other things.
Without the distraction of little kids to raise and a career (jury is still out on retirement), I have much more downtime in my brain and turns out my brain likes to be negative, complain-y and mean to me. Who knew??? I didn't notice how bad it had become until I had so much brain downtime.
That's where all this woo-woo stuff comes in -- train my brain in a different way. Time to enjoy the accomplished goals, set new goals and work forward (and be nice to myself along the way).
Here's what I did ...
Gretchen Rubin
I took her suggestions and made a list of 19 things for 2019. Some fun. Some easy. Some necessary to-do list stuff. Things I need and want to get finished in 2019. It's eclectic and specific. Some resemble New Year's Resolutions.
I also gave 2019 a word. SHINE. Everyone is doing a word this year hahahaha. Guess I'm finally on-trend instead of behind. I wrote about it last week and it's on my vision board.
Brooke Castillo and Rachel Hollis
Using RH daily goal planner, I wrote 10 goals. RH suggests focusing on one per year. My goals don't fit that format right now. 10 years ago they did - when we were younger and still in the building season of our life. I never wrote them down, but I had a list in my head (P.S. that worked too). I have some future goals, but I don't need to wait so many years for the rest of them. Does that make sense?
I used Brooke's idea of adding goals I've already achieved in the list too. This helps your mind see abundance and success. I am a nurse.
Some of the goals are more reminders. Be a better friend. That kind of thing.
I am free from desserts. That's GR helping to phrase the goal in the positive. Her sister did this -- free from french fries. If the goal is, "I won't eat dessert," it's received differently in the mind.
Coach Holly and PHB
We did a personal motto for PHB and I included mine in the RH book. It's the most woo-woo of it all, but I wrote it so why not "see" it too. Reminders to be better.
Goals are my afternoon routine addition. I review the lists, think about them, write them down again (in the daily planner). I added the 19 goals to the front of the book and my motto to the back.
At times, this seems dumb. Weirdly trendy and so I-have-nothing-else-to-do-that's-actually-important. Then I listen to successful people (not just life coaches) and THEY do this stuff (like even my neighbor!!!!). Goals, planning, reviewing, routines, self-care, personal growth. Guess it's not dumb. It's at least worth a good honest effort to see how it works for me.
Later gators.
Wednesday, January 2, 2019
WE MADE IT ...
The big WE ... all of us ... holidays are OVER. Whether good, bad, fun, boring, awful, beautiful ... it's all FINISHED.
Regular life begins again.
I had to force "regular" life things yesterday, but I did it. Today should be "regular" without forcing. Just one day can start the ball moving back in a good direction.
Decorations are completely down (minus outside lights and a wreath - those stay until mid-January at least). Cleaning crew comes today so my house will smell good and every last holiday crumb will be off the floor.
Regular life things include grocery shopping for DAYS, not just one meal. Big cook-ups and stocking up the freezer again. Some personal maintenance - nails, eyebrows. Some house maintenance - bills, sheets, towels. Going to bed at my "regular" time and getting up early.
This November-December knocked us to our knees -- in lots of good ways, but we are TIRED. So tired, we decided to defer our May trip to Italy. We need to pull back on spending, big travel and over all indulgences. We think Germany in the fall. Hubby has 2 ski trips in February. I have a family ladies' trip in April. That's more than enough. A big trip in May felt overwhelming. We had everything out to book it yesterday and both of us had not an ounce of excitement - it felt like a chore. If it's not a HELL YES, then it's a NO. (I think that's from Jen Hatmaker - but she might be quoting someone else.)
I'll talk about my goals in a few days. Lots to write and I don't have the brain function yet this morning.
I miss my WORKOUTS!! I want to run or box today, but my dang leg is still messed up. Back to an arm and ab workout which is totally unsatisfactory without the balance of some good cardio. I need a cardio push for my mental function too. I notice a difference when it's not there.
Did I mention I decided to do a DRY JANUARY? Yep, still living my cliches. So many of my peeps are doing a January Whole 30 and that's not for me. I want to get back to my normal post W30 eating, but not a strict W30. I need to stop the regular wine though. Dry January for the win. I've never done one outside of a W30. Shouldn't be hard - I'm ready for a break. You're welcome, Liver.
Does today feel like a Monday to everyone too? Wow, I just realized it's Wednesday. Yep, brain function on low.
Off to wake-up and get my bills sorted. Sounds like a drag, but it's perfect for today - nothing but REGULAR life on the books. Later gators.
Regular life begins again.
I had to force "regular" life things yesterday, but I did it. Today should be "regular" without forcing. Just one day can start the ball moving back in a good direction.
Decorations are completely down (minus outside lights and a wreath - those stay until mid-January at least). Cleaning crew comes today so my house will smell good and every last holiday crumb will be off the floor.
Regular life things include grocery shopping for DAYS, not just one meal. Big cook-ups and stocking up the freezer again. Some personal maintenance - nails, eyebrows. Some house maintenance - bills, sheets, towels. Going to bed at my "regular" time and getting up early.
This November-December knocked us to our knees -- in lots of good ways, but we are TIRED. So tired, we decided to defer our May trip to Italy. We need to pull back on spending, big travel and over all indulgences. We think Germany in the fall. Hubby has 2 ski trips in February. I have a family ladies' trip in April. That's more than enough. A big trip in May felt overwhelming. We had everything out to book it yesterday and both of us had not an ounce of excitement - it felt like a chore. If it's not a HELL YES, then it's a NO. (I think that's from Jen Hatmaker - but she might be quoting someone else.)
I'll talk about my goals in a few days. Lots to write and I don't have the brain function yet this morning.
I miss my WORKOUTS!! I want to run or box today, but my dang leg is still messed up. Back to an arm and ab workout which is totally unsatisfactory without the balance of some good cardio. I need a cardio push for my mental function too. I notice a difference when it's not there.
Did I mention I decided to do a DRY JANUARY? Yep, still living my cliches. So many of my peeps are doing a January Whole 30 and that's not for me. I want to get back to my normal post W30 eating, but not a strict W30. I need to stop the regular wine though. Dry January for the win. I've never done one outside of a W30. Shouldn't be hard - I'm ready for a break. You're welcome, Liver.
Does today feel like a Monday to everyone too? Wow, I just realized it's Wednesday. Yep, brain function on low.
Off to wake-up and get my bills sorted. Sounds like a drag, but it's perfect for today - nothing but REGULAR life on the books. Later gators.
Tuesday, January 1, 2019
Helloooo 2019!
As expected we did NOTHING. It was raining, humid, far too warm and generally a nasty night. Hubby was my son's ride to-from a party to avoid Uber up-charges. I stayed home and watched more of Call the Midwife (still excellent - 2nd season).
Oh, and confession because I'm an idiot (not really, but kind of really). Let's begin at the beginning of my stupid.
I drove to Whole Foods to get a healthy dinner for NYE from the food bar. I took down most of the decorations and was ready to relax. I've eaten the Whole30 chili for the last billion meals (since Friday - true story) and needed something different. I NEVER expected it to be crowded - 5 o'clock on a rainy Monday?!?! I really wasn't thinking NYE. Silly me!! Whole Foods parking lot was a MESS. I almost didn't go inside, but I drove all the way in the rain. Why not go in ... stupid continues.
The food bar was picked over, mostly empty (hand to God, the only plentiful thing was the romaine lettuce). Not even sushi at the sushi station! I walked the store wondering aimlessly. I actually laughed at myself because I looked the part of a sad cliche on NYE. Sweat pants, no makeup, hair a mess from the rain, nothing in my cart. Looking around with a sad face (where's my sushi??).
The lines everywhere - check-out, cake counter, meat counter. Wow. I left and drove to Publix.
My sweet, never-crowded Publix was hopping too. OMG! Really?!?! I guess I never actually go out ANYWHERE NYE. Unlike Whole Foods, there was a definite "type" at Publix. Some sort of appetizer (shrimp or chips & dip), some sort of alcohol (wine, beer), no cart and a rush to get in line.
Here's the confession. I was tired, deflated, out of ideas and annoyed. I bought GF crackers, cheese and ice cream for hubby. Went home, opened wine and that was dinner. So much for my HEALTH is BACK declaration. Hello buffering and all things not healthy.
The only good news is hubby finished the chili. Onward and upward today. I hope, I will, I must.
Happy New Year!! Welcome 2019. I'm ready for you ... later gators.
Oh, and confession because I'm an idiot (not really, but kind of really). Let's begin at the beginning of my stupid.
I drove to Whole Foods to get a healthy dinner for NYE from the food bar. I took down most of the decorations and was ready to relax. I've eaten the Whole30 chili for the last billion meals (since Friday - true story) and needed something different. I NEVER expected it to be crowded - 5 o'clock on a rainy Monday?!?! I really wasn't thinking NYE. Silly me!! Whole Foods parking lot was a MESS. I almost didn't go inside, but I drove all the way in the rain. Why not go in ... stupid continues.
The food bar was picked over, mostly empty (hand to God, the only plentiful thing was the romaine lettuce). Not even sushi at the sushi station! I walked the store wondering aimlessly. I actually laughed at myself because I looked the part of a sad cliche on NYE. Sweat pants, no makeup, hair a mess from the rain, nothing in my cart. Looking around with a sad face (where's my sushi??).
The lines everywhere - check-out, cake counter, meat counter. Wow. I left and drove to Publix.
My sweet, never-crowded Publix was hopping too. OMG! Really?!?! I guess I never actually go out ANYWHERE NYE. Unlike Whole Foods, there was a definite "type" at Publix. Some sort of appetizer (shrimp or chips & dip), some sort of alcohol (wine, beer), no cart and a rush to get in line.
Here's the confession. I was tired, deflated, out of ideas and annoyed. I bought GF crackers, cheese and ice cream for hubby. Went home, opened wine and that was dinner. So much for my HEALTH is BACK declaration. Hello buffering and all things not healthy.
The only good news is hubby finished the chili. Onward and upward today. I hope, I will, I must.
Happy New Year!! Welcome 2019. I'm ready for you ... later gators.
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