Decoration Time?

Probably.  Maybe.  I'm a bit blah this morning and for some reason I kept picturing decorating happening on the weekend (old habits).  Truth is I can decorate ANY day.  Maybe trees up today and the rest on Monday?  Not sure.  I'll see how the day goes.

I want to take a later morning trail run and that will eat up some of the day.  Kids are flying home early from Colorado because of the weather so hubby is leaving in the afternoon to pick them up.  There's something appealing to home alone and relaxing -- that's why decorating is a big fat MAYBE.

We went to the winery yesterday.  Beautiful day, good music, leftovers picnic.  It was fun.  Also a nice break from dog duty.  We went to the bigger winery and skipped the Black Friday shopping event.  I didn't get anything at all on Black Friday.  BUT ... here's a few things I got recently.  More is coming (I bought it before Black Friday).

For my treadmill.  No more disposable for me.
Fits the holder and has a good top for running.
Lots of color choices. Amazon.

The BEST thermometer -- recommended by Nom Nom Paleo
$99.  Ouch.  Black Friday deal was 25% off.
Missed it, but glad I had it  for the turkey.
Maybe Cyber Monday will have another deal.
Also comes in lots of colors.

Pier One.
Wine is the Christmas White and
Christmas Red from the winery.

Last night I finished Succession.  As expected, HUGE twist in the final moments.  New season hasn't even begun filming.  Guess that's it for me -- HBO over for us soon.  Now for The Crown -- can't wait to start this season.

I'm almost finished A Three Dog Life.  Not for me -- but I'm super close to finishing it, so why not.  It's a memoir that seems to go nowhere.  Her husband has a head injury and is in assisted living, but I don't see anything interesting in the story.  Not moving, not inspiring, not anything ... to me.  It probably was cathartic for her to write it, but it doesn't translate to some universal lesson.  Her walks down memory lane are boring stories for an outsider to hear.  I'm empathic to her situation and so on ... just not a fan of the book.

I'm on the hunt for the next book.  Stay tuned ...

Feels like a Sunday.  I'm a day off since Thanksgiving.  I'll leave with a shot of my bed last night.  No wonder my back is stiff this morning.  Love these buggers, but 4 dogs in a bed -- two of which are snarky chihuahuas, well, it's been interesting.

Next Up ... Black Friday

Thanksgiving was a success. *big sigh of relief*  I've had some good years, great years and TOTAL BOMB years (quiet a few actually).  Fingers are always crossed until the meal is on the table.  Even though I feel like I can cook it in my sleep at this point, I still have the ability to mess up -- especially in those final moments.  (Forget something in the oven, burn something on the stove, etc.)

Costco fresh, organic turkey was as good as Whole Foods and a lot less expensive.  Everything turned out perfectly (if I do say so) -- nothing overdone, burnt or underdone.  Turkey was ready early.  Am I the only one with this issue -- every year it's early?  I look it up each year to confirm approximate cooking time (size of turkey, temperature of oven).  Early by TWO HOURS.

It had a good rest while we waited for dinner around 3:30.  A little earlier than I had planned, but it worked out fine.  Five dogs need a lot of attention in the morning and at night.  This gave US some good resting before all the dog chaos began.

Parker giving me sass lip -- turkey was out and he didn't have any yet.
This boy LOVES bird day -- the smell gets him so excited.

FINALLY!
Dogs were ready for taste testing.

Waiting their turn.
Good doggies!

Not a fancy table.
Hard when it's only set for 3 people.
Looked a little better with the food on it :)

Today hubby and I are leaving all dogs and going to our local winery.  Enjoying the mountains, fresh air and a local shop Black Friday event.  A day of rest.  Black Friday is a zoo everywhere so maybe this will be a little less hectic.  My shopping is mostly online, as usual.

Tomorrow we're decorating for Christmas and Sunday is dog return day and adoption day for Rosa.  Monday will be a nice recoup day.

Enjoy leftover day, Black Friday and hopefully a little piece and quiet.  Later gators.

Happy Thanksgiving

FIVE dogs means up at 4 o'clock and hopping.  It's almost an hour later and I've been out with dogs for the hour ... but I love them :)

On arrival yesterday ...
a little chihuahua battle.

Cooking went smoothly yesterday.  Fingers crossed for another good one today.  The BIG turkey is making me a little nervous.  I got a new thermometer on recommendation from NomNomPaleo.  More on this and some other goodies once I remember to take pictures.  I have my hands full with the four-legged variety right now.

I watched Brittany Runs a Marathon on Prime last night.  I loved this sweet movie so much.  I could relate to a lot of who she is (minus the partying).  It leaves you feeling happy and inspired and cheering all the way for her.

There are a few movies in theaters that I have an eye on too.  Probably wait until I can watch them at home, but I might venture out to the theater next week if I find myself wanting some treat time. (JuJu Rabbit -- more and more good reviews;  Mr. Rogers movie -- of course.)

My mood has rollercoastered UP again -- phew.  I'm quite the drama queen lately.  Riding the wave ...  The lead up to Thanksgiving is emotional for me.  Thanksgiving was the last time I saw my dad before he died suddenly at age 53.  The visit almost didn't happen because my MIL passed away a two weeks before.  We ended up taking my hubby's family and going to see my dad anyway.  We talked a lot about loosing a parent early (his dad died young too).  He was gone two weeks later (2 parents passed in one month).  It feels like the biggest blessing that I had that Thanksgiving with him -- also makes me miss him terribly.

Good news is I always feel better by Thanksgiving.  Don't know why that is ... sad for about a week and then I'm okay for the actual day.  It's always punctuated by the fact that I shared this with my mother years ago and she now makes a point to be extra mean over this holiday.  That's her mental illness, but it's hurtful.

Ahhhhh ... FAMILY.  It's an adventure.

Hope everyone finds themselves with happy people having a happy day today.  Take a breath, wear stretchy pants and enjoy the day -- that's my plan.  Later gators.

Thanksgiving Eve

The REAL cooking begins.  Lists are written, schedule is set ... let the kitchen fun begin.  I enjoy trying to be efficient cooking the Thanksgiving meal.  It's like a little personal challenge for me.  Things will smell mighty fine for the next 2 days.  Hopefully, my bad cooking karma is gone (ie cranberry sauce).  Today is the longest day in the kitchen.

It's a good day to be home -- pouring rain ALL morning.   Sweat pants, no make-up, candles burning, Christmas music playing.

I was thinking about running on the trail tomorrow for Thanksgiving -- good thing I found out there's a huge race that closes the area I run on.  Half marathon, 10K and 5K ... all on the same path.  That will be a race of total patience.  Thanksgiving brings out family groups to run (ie non-runners).  The path is 12 feet across (the race info gave that stat) so each way has only 6 feet -- passing people will be crazy!  Of course, I thought about running it (why not), but the numbers have maxed out.  Next year :)

No tinsel in the hair ... YET.  I'm going mid-December for an updo (we have a party to go to and I'm trialling hair for the wedding).  Maybe some tinsel then.  If I get the tinsel with the keratin on, it tends to slip.  I might look to buy it online.  It seems simple to put in and it's pricey at the salon.

I started the book A Three Dog Life -- Abigail Thomas.  It's a memoir and, so far, very depressing.  Not the best time to be reading it, but it's short and reads fast.  I think I'll try to plow through it and move onto something light or fun fiction.

I'm almost finished with the HBO series, Succession.  It's good-ish.  Sometimes it's good drama, sometimes it's over the top and sometimes it's plain old creepy.  Only 2 seasons and I'll finish before we our HBO trial runs out.  I need something else to watch.

EDITED -- I forgot about The Crown!!  Woo hoo.  Bring it on :)

I listened to my coach Holly's podcast yesterday.  She interviewed The Holistic Psychologist.  Very good listen (long ... about 90 minutes).  Her podcast is called Mindspeak.  Worth listening to parts more than once.

Best cooking karma to all the cooks today, safe travel to all the peeps not cooking and let the holiday fun begin!  Thanksgiving, Black Friday and Christmas season all starts NOW!!  We'll be FIVE dogs deep -- it's going to be good.  Later gators.

Rollercoaster

Instead of Thanksgiving gratitude, I'm choosing to sprinkle in a little rant.  Read at your own risk ... P.S. that mood change has rollercoastered back.  Maybe a rant will help ...

We were all set for our "speed" hike yesterday.  I modified my morning, switched up the week's workouts so my leg would be okay, let hubby handle dog walks (time was limited).  About an hour before the hike, the first person backed out.  "I have so much to do before company this week, I need to take the hike time for errands."

What??  You didn't know this the night before when we all confirmed the hike and time?  You only realized this RIGHT NOW -- interesting.  This will take less than 2 hours from the morning.  When we left for the hike, she was still walking her dog and standing in a driveway chatting with another neighbor.  That felt insulting.  Guess her day wasn't THAT full.

Then the other person, after reading the text, said she'll just sit this one out too -- and wash her blinds!!  That sounds like "I can't go out because I have to wash my hair."  Hubby ran into her minutes before she texted and she said how much she was excited about the hike (great weather, perfect day, etc).

My add-on hiking friend was still up for the hike and she came over, we hiked, had a great time, etc.  I'm trying to focus on THAT -- good time, good friend, etc.

That said, I'm annoyed and hurt by the lame, last minute cancelation.  I have a schedule too.  If they canceled the night before -- no biggie.  I wouldn't have needed to change anything and my other friend and I could have flexed the time to fit us both better.

I guess the lesson is to NOT modify my morning for plans for them.  If I can do it without modification, then I can go -- otherwise no.  This is the same group with the birthday lunch fiasco.  Fool me once (or twice) ...  Also, the first person to cancel has canceled or changed up stuff a number of times.  I guess this is how she operates.  Now I know.

Next week this SAME group has a lunch and gift exchange for the "morning walkers."  I'm curious how many times this will get changed around at the last minute -- like the birthday lunch.

RANT OVER ... mild complaint ahead.

I finished Thanksgiving shopping.  As luck would have it, all the apples are rotted inside.  Dang.  Found this out because I was making cranberry sauce with an apple.  I finally found one that seemed okay and make the mistake of using it without tasting it.  Cranberry sauce in the trash -- starting over this afternoon.  It had an off taste -- mildly rotten.  Have to rebuy the apples for the pie too.  I didn't save my receipt because I didn't think there was a problem -- they seemed fine on the outside.  This isn't my first apple selection rodeo -- who knew.  And both kinds of apples.  Pisser.  Saving my receipt this time.

Now some better stuff.

I got the hat and scarf for my dog, but it doesn't fit him.
She hated it (as most dogs do), but she's so cute!

Today is hair day.  I'm thinking about getting holiday tinsel again.  It's fun and festive, although I'm not feeling that way this morning.  Act how you want to feel.  That's a thing -- so maybe tinsel will save my mood LOL.

Happy Tuesday, happy prepping.  Later gators.

Thanksgiving Week

Let it begin.

Easy cooking ... lots of it.  Tradition to the max.  My family loves the SAME when it comes to holidays so nothing gets creative.  I add a different veggie year to year (I'm usually the only one who eats it) and tweak here and there, but the big stuff is EXACTLY the same.

Any other time, experimenting is awesome ... just not on the holidays.  This works perfect for me for Thanksgiving (I'm in their camp on this one too).  Christmas -- I'm dying to change it up, but I get so much shock & awe at the mere suggestion.  Oh well.  I don't love keeping Christmas the same, but I love that they love the tradition of it so much.

I went to A Course in Miracles class and stayed for the Unity Service.  It fixed me (for now LOL).  Got my head on straight, mind in a better place.  Then the afternoon with the kids, dogs and football.  Not a bad day.

Today is a hike with 3 friends.  Mixing old and new.  We're looking to break our loop record so we need to bring it.  Should be fun.  Errands in the afternoon -- me and everyone on the planet.  Time to buy the "fresh" stuff.  It's going to be a zoo.  I have Christmas music in the car and nothing else on the calendar -- determined to be zen about the crazy.

I'm in a bit of a podcast slump.  My usual favorites have been meh to downright NOT good.  I haven't worked my way into new ones yet.  My coach does a podcast too -- I enjoy it, but need to be in a certain mood to listen (plus, I've been with her so long, it's a lot of stuff I've heard her say before).

I'm have a few chapters left in When We Believed in Mermaids and it's gotten sickeningly sweet -- tooth aching sweet.  I don't see how it can redeem itself by the end.  They have nothing but a tragic, complicated life and in a hot minute EVERYTHING works out amazingly.  It wasn't horrible though -- good airplane level read -- easy and fluffy.

Someone recommended the movie Thank You For Smoking.  I'll check it out.  He said it was funny in the way it delivered the message about industries keeping the population bamboozled.  Someone also recommended the movie out in theaters ... Jojo Rabbit.  I watched the trailer and I'm not sure it's for me.  Along the same lines as the other ... designed to show the absurdity of something bad (Nazi Germany).  I'll see ... kind of in the mood for some movie watching this week.

I'll leave with a picture of the dog feeding circle.  Everyone got along and that's a relief for this week ... another Thanksgiving Dog Party of Five.  Later gators.

Sunday Morning

You know that sound when an engine is TRYING to start, but can't quite turn over ... that's ME right now, trying to start my healthy version, but her nemesis is still in power.

I'm up this morning actively talking myself out of going to A Course in Miracles.  It's an hour drive ... the last 2 classes were a bust ...  I don't want to find something to wear.   But I got up so I'm TRYING to NOT, NOT go (it's a double negative kind of day).

Something strange happened with my mood yesterday ... the mood that was doing so well.  IT'S GONE haha.  A series of annoyances started and I did well to ACCEPT the feelings, not over-spin the situations and table the THINKING because good solutions don't often come out of bad feelings.  So I sat with feeling lousy (without thinking about the circumstances) and went to bed early.  Those feelings are lingering this morning.  I want to complain in my head, extrapolate the story to crazy town and revel in a pity party for one -- you know, the usual menu.

(Wait ... is this that time of month?  Nope, too early.  I did check because there is something oddly familiar with my desire to have a fit LOL.)

I won't get into all the random things that came up -- way too long of a story.  My logical mind knows that all the crap will get figured out and some might not even come true.  It was like a tidal wave of shitty messages yesterday.

I know the answer to this mood is to DO THE THINGS anyway.  But I'm stomping my feet, resisting, being a brat.  Why do I suck at maintaining a baseline of GOOD??  TBC ... forever and ever and ever.

Anyway ...  the day wasn't a total bust by a long shot.

Rosa is adopted!!  She'll go to her new home after Thanksgiving (they're out of town).  She'll have an adjustment, but this couple is fantastic.  I can't wait to see their condo -- newly renovated, great area, lived there for 25 years.  I bet it's fabulous and maybe I'll get decorating ideas.  They said they just finished gutting their entire unit.

Hubby and I figured out our trip for next year to celebrate #50.  Seattle, Portland and Crater Lake, OR.  I can't wait.  Mix of so many things I like -- hiking, eating, wine, Starbucks, liberals (haha) and gorgeous landscape.  Boat ride, sunrise hike, old lodge.  We're going to plan it soon.  2020 is shaping up to be a fantastic year.

Also, got a fun date on my calendar in December that pushes me out of my comfort zone.  Big chunky blanket making.  It's all the rage -- I'm not crafty, but I think this will be fun.  Taking my friend for her birthday.  We try to look for DIFFERENT when we go out.

Lots of good stuff wherever I look (as long as I don't look at my text messages LOL).

On that note, time to work out and get my butt to A Course in Miracles.  Still stomping, but doing it anyway because I'm a grown-ass-woman, not a toddler (most days).  Later gators.

Wash Out

This is a complete rainout of a Saturday.  I don't mind a cosy day at home though.  Rosa is meeting her potentials Daddies and fingers crossed for this little lady (and fingers crossed to potty outside today).

We had a great time at dinner last night.  These friends are such good conversationalist and interesting people.  Not a boring part of the conversation all night.  Dinner was delicious and dessert was incredible -- I got a slice of the pastry chef's special pumpkin pie recipe.  I've never had a better slice of pumpkin pie.

I'm signed up for the 5K and was resolved to do it on my own -- then my friend last night said she's interested in running it too.  Yea!  She's not signed up yet, but sounds promising.  I think I might have a partner for the run after all.

Monday we are doing a speed round of the 4 mile lake hike -- seeing if we can get it under an hour.  The hills are serious and the terrain is challenging for about 2/3 of the loop.  My friend from last night is coming with us.  Awesome on both fronts.

I got most of the supplies for Thanksgiving -- just in time.  It was crazy out there ALREADY.  With today being heavy rain all day -- lord help the people.  Costco came through with the organic, fresh turkey and some good wines for the night.  (I'm on a no-alcohol run until Thanksgiving -- in case you were wondering LOL.)  I'll buy the fresh stuff next week and good-to-go (!!)

I might make the cranberry sauce this weekend.  I think it keeps for about a week.  Anything I can get done ahead is a bonus.  I also decided to make mini-apple pies this year.  The last 2 years, no one was hungry for dessert and we didn't cut the pie until the next day.  This way my youngest can take a small pie home and have it when he's ready.  I don't know why little pies seem so much easier to make and bake.

I AM starting my BETTER eating today.  Practically anything will be move the bar in the right direction LOL.  But seriously, giving it a go.  Hello, vegetables -- I see you :)  (Here's an oldie, but goodie -- I'm shooting for "little" haha)

I'm pushing back into routine again tomorrow.  I plan to go to Unity for A Course in Miracles class and maybe the sermon (I'll see on timing ... if Rosa is getting adopted, etc).

Have a great Saturday.  Later gators.

Tight Pants Confessional

It's Friday.  Another week in the books.

My eating has been horrible.  Snacking, white carbs for days (although GF now), sugary treats and wine.  WHAT the WHAT?!?  I feel it in a big way this morning.  Energy tanked, face puffy, PJs TIGHT (OMG).

I'm mentally on a last crap-fest before I clean it up and diet for the wedding.  I use the term diet loosely for now -- if loosely doesn't work, DIET will mean DIET.  Dang it on all levels.

I think I'm beginning the cleanup tomorrow (how's that for a declaration LOL).  Tonight is dinner out with friends and I'll choose okay, but I will have a drink or two and this is my favorite dessert place.

I'm thinking about running a 5K the first weekend in December.  That will get my butt in a better place.  Hubby is out of town and I'm trying to find someone to go with me.  It's at one of the northern wineries -- mountains, trail and elevation changes.  I'll do it myself, but it won't be as much fun after the run if I don't have a pal.  There's music, lunch, wine tasting, etc.  Hanging out with just me will be a little boring.  Problem is NONE of my friends run.  I messaged a neighbor who sometimes runs and asked her.  She replied, "who is this?"  Ummm ... we text all the time for hiking group.  I said who I was and no further response.  Probably not a good sign hahaha.

I'm also scheduling some dress shopping -- most places need an appointment.  That WILL keep me on a better track and maybe scare me out of the GF cookies.

Even though I'm tanking the crap out of my eating, I'm in an okay head space (considering) -- gluten be gone!!  I'm actually looking forward to some healthier eating and goodbye to the junk.  That's good news, but usually a sign of a pretty big dive into junk-land.

Today is all sorts of errands and lots of Releash foster calls.  Full day -- but I'm in the mood for both.  Dinner with fun friends.  Always interesting conversation and anything goes.  I like interesting people -- never a dull part to the conversation.

That is all from here.  Tight pants confessional finished.  Later gators.

One Week Until TURKEY Day

I like my new primary practice.  Nice group, well run (on-time) and took a complete physical.  I have my referral for a mammogram and a colonoscopy (if my insurance will cover it early -- new age parameters on first colonoscopy).  They drew non-fasting labs so I don't need to go back.

I was in the neighborhood of Trader Joe's -- got some pantry shopping done.  I realized I need to get a turkey soon too.  Thanksgiving is coming fast.  I usually order a fresh organic turkey from Whole Foods.  Last year, I swear Costco had the same for a lot less.  I'll run over and check it out today.

P.S.  Hubby said the aquarium night was a bust.  The regular economic advisor retired and the new guy was dry and boring.  Also, the food and such wasn't good.  Even the aquarium was strange.  There was a loud yoga class going on in the area and it was distracting to the evening.  Turns out I didn't miss much.

Foot massage and lunch with my favorite aunt today.  We always have a fun time and lots of laughs.  I'm still bagging on the GNI group tonight.  My response was already a 'no' (we were expected to be out of town) and I'm keeping it.  I'm enjoying nights at home -- nesting in the dark, cold evenings.  It's my favorite time of year.

The other BIG picture came for over the family room sofa.  Still waiting on the sunburst little mirrors (only 1 of the 3 is here).  It definitely out-of-my-box and I'm a bit on the fence about it.  The square is a lot more textured than it looks in this picture.  It's like linen fabric pieces.

They coordinate nicely, but not my typical style.
I wanted something different than my usual though.
Guess I achieved that goal LOL.

Rosa is getting more and more comfortable.  She's suddenly sitting on laps and sleeping on our bed.  She's so sweet -- what a good little lady.  She LOVES my hubby.

She doesn't love the phone camera pointed at her LOL.

I'm back to some podcast listening and some motivational stuff.  This was on Instagram yesterday.  Good message for me to remember and, honestly, some peeps in my life could benefit from this too.  Holidays bring out the best and the worst -- in people, in feelings, in families.  Why run the worst on a loop -- it just amplifies the yuck.

I'm heading for a week of a lot less stuff -- even with Thanksgiving.  My usual playmates are out of town or have company for the full week.  This feels like a nice break and might also feel a bit off.  It's funny how things feast and famine for me socially.  When one peep is busy, they all seem to be busy (of course, this is obviously Thanksgiving, but it happens on non-holidays too).  I think this will be more of a welcomed break than a lonely week.  I plan to use the quiet time for THINGS.  Christmas decorating and lots of time for reading, podcasts, etc.

I'm reading When We Believed in Mermaids -- Barbara O'Neal.  About halfway and it's GOOD so far.  I'm on a nice reading streak right now.  Coming behind this book is a recommendation from Elizabeth Gilbert.

That's my update on this Thursday.  Have a great day -- later gators.

Physical

Quick update -- I bagged on the aquarium yesterday.  I couldn't do another late night.  Hubby went, I stayed home with the dogs.  Seeing the aquarium at night will have to wait for me.

Today is PHYSICAL day.

I'm dreading it with all my might.  #1 reason -- being weighed.  I'll ask to not know, but that's no guarantee.  I go because I need my mammogram referral.  It's probably time to get labs drawn too -- otherwise the rest of the exam is worthless.  If I have no complaints, the exam is light touch here, deep breath there and it's over.  Most docs are all about treating the sick -- not prevention for the healthy.  It's a non-fasting physical, so I'll need to go separately for my labs.  Dang.

Rant over -- for now.  I'm seeing a new practice and maybe I'll have a better experience or maybe I can complain another day LOL.

Here's a better subject -- TV.  I started watching Succession on HBO (we have a trial until February).  It's a spicy drama.  Rich, crazy family and lots of selfish power moves -- makes for a good show.  Two seasons are out and I hear it stays good.

Rosa is already off the market.  She meets her dream family on Saturday -- 2 daddies.  This girl loves the boys.  Fingers crossed.  They sound perfect for her.  Their 15 year old little girl dog died a couple of months ago.  They love little, female and rescue -- she'll be pampered and spoiled like crazy.  Hopefully, they love her despite her being super shy at first.

I had gluten over the weekend and I never give it enough credit for a lousy mood -- it's like a wave of gray.  Low level depression -- sad, low energy ... the works.  I need to stop eating it.  Yet, I eat it sometimes.  I think that contributed to staying home last night.  Bread isn't worth missing out on fun. Maybe saying it AGAIN will help it stick.

That's all I have for this morning.  Working toward actually ACHIEVING my normal again.  Goodbye gluten :(

Later gators.

Regular Old Tuesday

Good morning.  Transition day over ... regular life again.  I slept for 12 hours with not an smidge of guilt.  Normal eating, normal sleeping, normal life -- here I come.

I want a t-shirt that says "I survived all the fun crap I put on my calendar."  LOL.

Back to normal, but still a social calendar this week -- a manageable one.  P.S.  I consider myself social if I have to look people in the eye hahaha.  Probably most people wouldn't consider my calendar full AT ALL, but my baseline is a bit skewed.

Tonight we're going to a bank event at the aquarium in Atlanta.  I added this on last week because it's FREE and I want to check out the aquarium night events.  Hubby is driving.  Dinner, economics talk (surprisingly interesting -- also dummied down for peeps like me) and aquarium time.   It's another "late" night, but I thought it would be worth it.

We were suppose to be in Asheville, NC this week so I declined a GNI monthly night.  I was going to put it back on the calendar, but instead I'm doing the aquarium.  GNI is Thursday, but I don't want to be out that late both nights.  Balance and choosing the more interesting life (more interesting TO ME, that is).

I have some new goodies arriving (and arrived) -- mostly from suggestions of influencers.  I used to roll my eyes at the term and the profession, but not anymore.  I get some good ideas for gifts and such.  I need to take pictures and get the info together.  Maybe wait until everything arrives.  New book title ideas too.

I think by the end of the weekend, I'll be in the holiday mood.  I'm decorating early this year (Thanksgiving weekend -- after Thursday).  Still can't bring myself to be decorated for Christmas BEFORE Thanksgiving, but Christmas music will be playing.  I have no judgment on decorating early -- Christmas joy should be as long as you want, although by February, I'll look at you funny if your tree is still up :)

Later gators.

Crash and Burn

I'm calling this day Crash and Burn.  I want to bury my head under the covers and sleep ALONE all day long.

Overall, I handled the visit well.  There were some fun times and I was able to not get crazy about the less fun stuff.  It took ALL my newly found learning to get through it.  Good practice though.

I'm tired and cranky.

Today is a transition day (i.e. DO NOTHING day.)  Other than a quick hike with my neighborhood friend, I'm unavailable to the world today.

We went to the local, hip coffee shop after the hike yesterday.  I got a cold brew with sparkle.  Fun -- no taste, just a little crunch by the end.





That's all I have today.   I'll be hanging out the rest of the day counting the hours until bedtime LOL.  Later gators.

Winery Visit

I think my new "thing" is visiting a winery on the weekend and listening to music.  Bring your own food so it's whatever YOU fancy.  Lots of choices for wine, tastings, etc ... all very reasonably priced.  We got 6 wine tastings that end with a double tasting in a chocolate cup ($15).

We sat outside with the food and listened to an awesome young man sing cover songs -- not a song you didn't know.  Then we went inside for the real wood burning fireplace -- smelled so good.  Finally back outside in the covered area to listen to the musician again -- warmer with plastic walls.

Home in time for a quick change and out for dinner to the rehearsal dinner restaurant -- food and service were great (phew).  The town was decorated for the holidays with lights.  Festive night.

Here are a few pictures ...

Filled with wine

The"petals" melted a little as you drank the wine.
Really good sweet finish -- didn't think I'd like it.

Me  -- I cropped the picture
because -- you know.

Outside with our food.

Everyone is so friendly.

Today we're heading to our hip, local coffee shop.  It has an artist, liberal vibe and that's unusual in the south.  After -- lake loop hike.  I'm making dinner and football (hopefully, I can read a little during the games).

I'm dreaming of a quiet day tomorrow.  Hiking with my usual hiking buddy and NOTHING else on the calendar that requires me to talk LOL.

Rosa is coming out of her shell.  FINALLY little tail wags and one poop.  Progress.

I'm hibernating in my office again, but I hear everyone up downstairs.  My drinks are empty so, dang, probably my quiet time is over this morning.  20 minutes ... as a tear runs down my cheek LOL.

One more day.  Fingers crossed, shields up and all that.  Later gators.

Good and Less Good

Let's lead with the GOOD.

Weekend is 1/3 over.  Dang.  Yep.  It's as difficult as it was before ... maybe more so.  Lordy love us, it's going to be a long day.

Other good news ... she sleeps late so I get a little morning time.

Here's the BAD.

We were up until almost midnight.  I am ALREADY under slept.

The weekend is barely over ... 2 long days lingering in front of me.  I need to "behave" but this new found ME is having a hard time faking interested.

Winery today (although I'm driving so I won't do the tasting ... just a glass over the afternoon).  Music and nature to CENTER and BREATHE.  That's my focus.

I won't go into the nitty gritty details, but believe me, I will deserve a metal by Monday LOL.

I finished Major Pettigrew's Last Stand and it was good.  The ending doesn't hold as much weight when it's not a suspense/mystery, but this end was FABULOUS.  The story was well thought out and I appreciate the unpredictable ending that totally fit the story.  Well done.

On to the next ... more on that later.  I'm getting called to make coffee (my machine is complicated).  Later gators.

Gretchen Rubin

Another great night from one of my favorites.  Gretchen and her sister were funny, smart and kept things moving along (both are fast talkers and I love it).  There was no time filler to make the evening longer ... get in, do the thing and get out.  Bam -- perfect.

Our seats were not bad, after all.  It's another small theater so I guess what I thought was nose-bleed (cheap tickets) was actually close to the stage.

Selfie, per hubby's insistence.

The night was in podcast format (but I don't think it was an ACTUAL podcast recording).  Some audience participation which is usually not my thing, but the "Happiness Hacks" were good and the questions were interesting.  Only a couple people were mic hogs and rambled ... otherwise, quick and to the point.

Since I've been eating out too much, I ended up skipping dinner.  I wasn't hungry the entire night -- that says how much my poor body needs a break from digesting LOL.  Today can be another light day of eating before a weekend of A LOT.  Feels good to be out of a food coma.  (P.S. I had a big lunch AND dessert -- shouldn't be THAT surprised I could skip a meal.)

I get some quiet time today.  Nail appointment for both fingers and toes.  I asked to have them done separately so I can sit and enjoy the pedicure.  Grocery shopping after -- need a lot for the weekend.  I'll get my favorite salad out for a late lunch and order the lemon chicken soup to have for dinner.  Rainy day and I'm staying in comfortable clothes all day - it's the small things :)

Company arrives late, but not late enough that I can go to bed before they come.  That's a total bummer.  Staying up for no reason.  I mentioned I'd be in bed and hubby was undone about it -- guess I'm staying up.

I'm feeling more prepared to get through the weekend.  Yesterday, my head space was off -- today, I'm better.  A little bit of alone time went a long way to making me feel myself again.  Looking for even more of that today.

If I can escape to my office in the morning, I'll check in over the weekend.  Fingers crossed because that means a minute of ALONE time.  Being ME ... as Gretchen Rubin taught me.  Later gators. 

Thursday Things ...

I have a little bit of my morning routine intact today.  Dogs are settled and I am upstairs ALONE in my office.  Key word: ALONE!!

I had another good coaching call yesterday.  We spent some time talking strategies about this full week leading into a weekend of challenging company.  The timing is the biggest issue -- this week was already scheduled for me (tickets to events and my youngest's b-day) so I couldn't change to give myself social downtime before I need to be "on" for company.   I'm still a bit bitter about selective memory when it came to my boundaries about this visit.  I was ignored and I'm still upset about it.

Every night I'm up way later than normal this week and it's messing with my sleep.  Add in a lots of social stuff and very little alone time -- recipe for a mini breakdown LOL.  I fantasize about hiding in my closet for the day.

My goals for this time are to ENJOY the fun things I get to do, grab alone time when I can and plan a BIG recovery next week.  It took a long time to acknowledge my introverted-ness (because I like to be social too) and even longer to understand it's okay to NEED space and recovery.

The rest of the coaching call was about forward goals and winks from the Universe about being on the right path.  Interesting and fun conversation.  Still working a lot out in my head and sharing would sound like a storm of crazy confusion -- because it still is nothing but confusion.

Dinner with the family was a lot of fun yesterday.  We celebrated and laughed and ATE -- my pants hate me.

Today was supposed to be a hike (too icy with the wet leaves), then it was morning coffee (changed because she has a contractor coming) and now it's lunch.  Prepare yourself, Pants ... more eating (we tried for a hike -- does that count?)

Tonight, hubby and I go to see Gretchen Rubin.  We have the nose-bleed seats -- no VIP tonight.  Should be fun, but I need to get out of my head about being out late AGAIN tonight.  I won't have an early night until Monday (and Tuesday is another late night).  Then it's smooth sailing and my complaining will stop (or switch to something else LOL).  I don't want to wish away this week (but you know I kind of am wishing it away).

Rosa is NOT adjusting yet.  Poor girl.  She's super scared and shy.  I spoke too soon about her loving her crate -- not so much anymore.  We'll keep loving her and hope she brightens up.

Cute as a button though.

It's 8 o'clock.  I've been up for two hours and I want to go back to bed in the worst way.  Not a great sign.  I wish I could effectively nap -- not in my DNA, I guess.

I forgot to take pictures of my holiday pillows.  Coming soon when I remember :)

Not much reading happening this week -- maybe a little when I get my nails done tomorrow.  A friend recommended the show "I'm Sorry" on Netflix.  I know nothing about it, but will check it out next week.  I'm totally dreaming of next week ...

Have a great day -- later gators.

Jen Hatmaker

The BEST night!  VIP tickets were totally worth it (even though I had a screamer next to me -- whooping at every comment).

I went early and did some shopping at Trader Joe's and Pier One (Christmas stuff -- more on that later) ... and was still EARLY to the show.  I valet parked because it was only $5 more and the regular parking was a long walk (dangerous at night).  I got in and sat at the venue bar, had a glass of wine and a fun time people watching.  Fancy ME.

The event was Jen Hatmaker recording her podcast, "For the Love."  Her guests were Knox and Jamie from "The Popcast" -- OMG, some of the funniest people on stage.  I laughed all night long.  Check them out -- totally a fan now and can't wait to listen to their podcast. Their motto is "we take a deep dive in the shallow end of the pool."  It's about lighthearted, nothing important, have some fun and chat about pop culture.  They're polar opposites and met in the online community years ago (not a couple).  Perfect match-up.

Meet and greet with pictures.  Jen Hatmaker is awesome -- I'm a super fan (but I'll never "scream" like that gal beside me).

Have to run -- foster dog duty this morning.  Another full day today -- coaching call and birthday celebration for the youngest.  Later gators.

Official Archenemy

The "Mayor" of our town strikes again (!!)

Lunch plans was a cluster-f*$K of changes for 24 hours.  Two hours before lunch all was confirmed and I met my friend for coffee.  My phone was going off like crazy about an hour later, but I felt it was rude to look at it -- so I ignored it (figured it was FB dog stuff).

The neighbor who initiated the plans and picked the restaurant wasn't able to come so The Mayor decided to change the time and restaurant to HER pick.  I was screwed -- it was too far away.  One of the other ladies called me because I hadn't responded to the texts and by then, it was too late to make it -- I'd be 45 minutes late.  Really, ANOTHER change was necessary?

I declared an Official Archenemy.  Sort of kidding, sort of not.  What a crazy old bag of a busybody.  EVERYTHING she puts her mitts on gets ugly, messy and annoying.  Unfortunately, she's involved in everything and is only happy if she's in charge of all decisions.  I don't know why people put up with her bossing and controlling.  I don't.

Coffee was nice and I'm super glad I didn't choose the rude option of looking at my phone or leaving early.   I went home, picked up hubby and we went to the original restaurant for lunch.

Rosa is in the house and scared out of her mind.  Of course, rain all night and morning so she's peeing and pooping in the house.  Slept like a dream in the crate though.  When she's awake, all she does is pace the floor.  I think she'll settle in a couple of days (hopefully).

Poor baby, but those EARS!!

Don't come any closer

I'm not ready to play, Duke.

Today is lunch with a friend and then Jen Hatmaker event.  I splurged and got VIP ticket because I'm going by myself.  Meet and greet was suppose to be before the event, now it's after - dang ... super late night.  The rain will be over (thankfully) but it will be COLD ... not that I'm complaining.

It's hard to be excited about going tonight.  Still recovering (although progress!!) and I'm going by myself and I'm suddenly unsure about that (I'll be fine once I'm there).

Good news is that a workout and meditation should "fix" my mood this morning.  Waiting for hubby to get up so I can leave Rosa (or crate her in the bedroom) while I go do my boxing.  My bff "scheduled" a time to talk this morning and I'm curious if it actually happens.  I adjusted my morning to be able to chat -- it's about a 50/50 chance of happening.

Later gators.

Grease and More Grease

Today starts my week of LOTS and LOTS to do.  Fun stuff and less fun stuff.  I need to manage myself well or this will get ugly (at least it's not my monthly).  Next week is virtually nothing though since we were planning to be in Asheville -- phew!

Quick update ...

I cooked bacon until I was blue in the face.  I used a different brand of thick center cut bacon and I'm not a fan.  It was too thick and I don't love the flavor.  It'll be fine for the holidays, but back to Kirkland brand next time.  (If I'm not prepping bacon for the freezer, I use the "good" stuff from Trader Joe's -- Whole30 approved -- and cook only one little package.)

The other chicken was better prepped -- no plucking needed.  Gravy is finished.  Since you need to take off the fat from the drippings, making this gravy makes a mess of greasy dishes.  I was up to my eye balls in greasy from bacon and chicken.  I wanted to get it all finished both the cleaning crew this week.  This is the BEST prep I do for the holidays (gravy and bacon) -- makes such a difference.

I drove to the wineries and checked out the music setup -- it's perfect and beautiful.  All set for this weekend.  I bought a bottle of the Christmas red -- it's the label that makes it Christmas.  I thought it would be nice to use on Christmas or give as a gift.  Pictures coming after this weekend -- it's beautiful.

This week, I'll be near another Trader Joe's so I can piggyback that errand tomorrow.

Today's agenda is coffee with a friend, lunch with neighborhood ladies and pickup our foster.  Full day.  Lots of social time with some ladies who can be trying -- energy shielding practice today.  First day with a foster is usually the roughest.  Fingers crossed for a good night's sleep and no peeing in the house (for either of us).

Workouts are INDOORS this week.  Cold front coming for Atlanta and it'll take morning temperatures below freezing.  I'm chicken about running with the possibility of ice.  Run off from yards can give some black ice and I've slipped before -- fool me once.  No options for a later run so inside for the win.  This weekend will be tricky with workouts and company.  I planned to run outside, but I don't think I'll be able to ... problem is workout room is next to their bedroom.  They tend to get up kind of last minute and I'll need to workout before they get up.  Oh well.  Workouts are a priority.

Happy Monday.  I'm as ready as I can be ... later gators.

Happy Sunday

I'm still under-the-weather.  Sick??  Yes, but not horribly sick.  I get hurting come afternoon.  My sinuses and head feel like they will explode.  Energy tanked, eyes swollen.

Sinus infection that I'm trying to fight without antibiotics.  Should be fine to do that -- most can resolve on their own and this isn't a horrible one.  That said, my body is rundown from fighting it.

I'm not going to Unity today.  I'm working on energy conservation and I have a full day today.  Unity hasn't been uplifting the last two times -- more of an exercise in APPLYING all the things I learned (energy shielding, patience, acceptance, etc).  I decided my energy is better spent with a workout rather than a morning of mental exercise.

I started my holiday prep yesterday -- gravy for the turkey.  I use NomNom Paleo's recipe for slow cooker chicken with gravy and freeze the gravy.  I bought the Costco 2-pack of organic chickens and cooked the first yesterday.  It was horribly prepped and I spent 15 minutes plucking feathers.  That was enough to totally gross me out.  I'm not naive that this is a chicken, but I like to PRETEND otherwise.  Hope this one is a little better.

I also bought 4 lbs of bacon to prep for ALL the holidays.  I cook it to about 90-95% done and food saver it for all my holiday needs.  It's the BEST time saver.  That said, cooking day is a greasy mess.  I do reasonably well containing the mess, but it's never totally contained.  That's on the agenda for today too.

I need a Trader Joe's run and possibly a dry run to the winery (no pun intended).  I don't think I can fit all of this in today.  I need to decide -- Trader Joe's or winery.  I want to check out the winery to see if it's an option for next weekend.  I could wing it, but I like to be prepared.  I need Trader Joe's for the dog treats (was going to grab it after Unity, but that's not happening).  I'll give it some thought.  (Also a possibility I bag both since I'm trying to recover.)

This week ahead is my TOTALLY FULL week.  All day, 4 evenings.  Dang, I need my energy up.  And we have a foster coming on Monday.  Maybe hubby can do the Trader Joe's run for me?!?!  The more I can get done before the foster comes, the better the week will go.  Pushing it today.

Later gators.

Serenbe Recap

Beautiful town -- well worth a stop if you find yourself in Atlanta.  It's only about 30 minutes from the airport.  Lives up to its name and reputation.

It was COLD, but I'm not complaining.  It's finally fall (although people in Atlanta are calling it winter LOL).

The event is all weekend and Friday's lineup was a bit of an ugly step sister day.  Only a half day of events and the volunteers were confused about everything (but super nice).  It was more of an introduction to what's coming for the weekend.  More than double the people today and tomorrow.  Also, there is a heavy focus on people who are staying at the event (of course).  That seemed to flow really well -- the day people stuff, not so much.

We found our way just fine though.  Ended up with the gift bag for the full weekend people (didn't realize that until the end), ended up parking in the vendor lot (so much easier parking) and got to spend time in the town.

Dinner was amazing.  All organic, veggie centered, delicious food.  Everything was gluten-free and dairy-free.  The staff did a great job (I should have taken pictures - dang).  Sit down meal for a few hundred people.  SIX COURSES!!

The property is incredible.  Animals, nature trails, fit pits.  We heard from the founder of Serenbe and it's an interesting story of how it came to be -- check it out online if you are interested (it's a long story).

Gaby Bernstein is a self proclaimed spiritual teacher who is can be a diva -- her words.  You can see that from her speech.  People like her style because she's "relatable" -- I might find it a bit too much if I had to be around her.  Her books don't match what you see in person.  The message is a good one though.

Here are the pictures.

Muse Tent where headliners speak

Girlfriend and her daughter

Gabby in the background eating at the next table

The town

Animal path

Trails to town via the animals

Goats!!

Stopped at the town coffee house.

My pictures don't do it justice.  I had my phone packed away most of the time so I missed the really beautiful stuff.  I had on gloves so too lazy to dig out the phone and de-glove -- but it sounds better to say I was being "present" without my phone LOL.

Tons of errands today.  Slept in because I was out so late.  Best get at it.  Later gators.

Serenbe or Bust

I'm trying to not make it a bust.

I'm STILL sick.  Good to go in the morning and then really down-n-out by afternoon.  I took meds and went to bed around 6 o'clock yesterday --- AGAIN.  Today is a LATE event ending at 10pm.  Then a 2 hour drive home and another 45 minutes drive for me from my girlfriend's house.

That's TOMORROW -- as the kids used to say.  Technically home Saturday morning.

I have cold meds on the list to pack and tummy meds -- problems all over this body right now.  I think one thing is giving way to another thing.  Immune system needs a boost.

Maybe we'll end up leaving a little early -- who knows.  This friend likes to bust out of things before they end.  I'm looking forward to this so much and I hope my body cooperates so I get the most out of the experience.

I finished TWO of the books I'm reading.  Active Hope and a book on being sensitive to other's energy (can't remember the name -- reading recommendation from my coach).  Active Hope was good -- thought provoking and a bit woo woo.  Other book was interesting in the beginning, but filled with tons of repetition and not much going on after about the first third.  Working on my fiction read still and it's good (Major Pettigew's Last Stand).  Lots of reading yesterday.

Hike was fun too.  We sort of found the right path -- missed a little section, but found our way back.  We think we know where we went wrong.  4 miles instead of 4.3 miles.  Missed the prettiest views, but the weather was PERFECT.  Can't complain :)

I ran a bunch of errands and then crashed.  That was the day in a nutshell.

I'm not leaving until later this morning so I might try for a trail run this morning.  Going to gauge my energy -- maybe that's too much before this long day.  Good news is this day is all about healing and wellness.  Bring it on ... maybe this is my cure LOL.

Later gators.

Happy Anniversary to Us

27 years.  Seems like just yesterday.  Seems like an eternity.

Isn't that what everyone says?

I'd pick him every time (even when he's a pain in the bum) and I think he feels the same - hah.  It's a good life with this man.  This is what most pictures of us look like -- selfies galore, although usually, he's holding the camera.

We went on our "celebration" hike yesterday afternoon.  It's shaded and secluded -- nice to go together (too secluded to go alone).  I ended up taking a late run on the trail.  It was good to get outside. My legs are sore today -- no surprise.

I have a couple of books to share.  Active Hope was recommended by the Unity group and I'm about halfway finished.  Interesting concept on how individuals can do their part to help Earth without feeling overwhelmed -- written by a nun and doctor.  The other is fiction recommendation by Melissa Urban -- it's my next fiction read after my current book (the book was half the price of the kindle version).  Gets great reviews.  (Also, remember how I wasn't going to share book titles until after I read them?  Guess that's over LOL.)

Influencers are starting holiday recommendations.  I have a few that haven't steered me wrong.  This was recommended -- watching it for Black Friday deals to get for hubby.  She has back and neck issues and says this is the bomb.  It's $50.

Want a preview of my out-of-the-box wall decor??  Hubby can't believe I paid to have carpet framed LOL.  The sunburst next to it is 1 of 3 in different sizes and shapes with center mirrors.  There's also another picture with a similar color look, but it's a print.  This is all that's come so far.  Still crossing those fingers ...

I started Brooke Castillo's new book too.  So far, nothing great.  I might sideline it for a minute.  I have 3 other books going right now and maybe best to finish up with a couple of those first.  Feast or famine.  All of a sudden, I have a book line again (makes me happy though).

Easy arm workout today and then the power hike with my neighbor.  This is the first time she and I will be directing ourselves -- it's not a well marked hike.  Our other neighbor used to live near the lake and that was her regular running route -- she usually leads the way.  We won't get lost, but the question is, can we find the loop we want to take.  Good practice because I want to take some other friends on this hike and I need to "learn" it.

Have a great Thursday - later gators.

13 hours

That's how long I slept last night.  Around 5 o'clock, I felt puny and decided to go to bed to read.  Lights out before 6 o'clock and I didn't set an alarm.  Figured I'd be wide awake EARLY.  Woke up just before 7 o'clock.

WOW!

I guess I needed it.  Between the virus, travel and my monthly ... my body is RUNDOWN.  I did a harder workout yesterday and that zapped a lot of my energy.

Update on my horrible Tuesday -- NOT horrible.  Dentist went well (see you in 3 months, suckers), delivery was a professional crew (not like the last few times) and the first wall hanging looks like it will work (still crossing my fingers waiting for the rest).

Rosa might not be coming until Monday, which is not the worse thing in the world.  Either way, she's at a northern vet so not a long drive for me.

So here's the scoop on the rest of my week ...

Hubby and I forgot about our anniversary on Thursday -- we both made plans.  Usually, we remember LOL.  We planned an anniversary trip in 2 weeks, but we canceled because our schedule is busy in November.  Our focus was on that trip as a celebration.  Oh well.  So plan B -- we are "celebrating" a day early with an afternoon hike, i.e. not celebrating.

Tomorrow I'm hiking with a friend (hubby's golfing with a friend).

Friday is the Wellness Retreat in Serenbe, GA.  Serenbe is a planned town with wellness in mind.  Trails, shops, housing, food -- all with wellness in mind.  I've wanted to check it out and Living Wholly is holding a 3 day event there.  We're only going with a Friday day pass to see keynote speaker, Gabby Bernstein.  The event is nature walks, yoga, dinner and speakers.  I love an event you can wear yoga pants.

If my foster doesn't come on Saturday, I might check out the winery I want to take company to the following weekend.  I have no idea what "music on the lawn" looks like and I want to see what I need to bring.  Blanket, chairs, etc ... or do they have that set up.  I also want to get the directions down -- GPS doesn't love the mountains and tries to direct me on dirt roads OVER the mountain.  I'll be driving her myself, so I like to be prepared (if I can).  Hubby is golfing, so just me going.

That's my week in a nutshell.  I need to feel well for the physical stuff!!  I was going to run on the trail today, but I might stick to the treadmill since my stomach is not happy this morning.  This is PERECT running weather and I'm missing it.  I'll see how the morning goes.

Off to walk the dogs -- it's fantastic to have all day options on walking.  It's never too hot during the day.  This makes potty training fosters so much easier too (although Rosa should be housebroken ... or close to it).  Have a great day.  Later gators.