Happy NYE (!!)

Short and sweet this morning.  I had coaching homework -- woo hoo!  I just spent the last hour (plus) writing lots of things and I'm pooped out.

Quarantined kids over for a celebration today -- 12 days finished and negative tests.  Grandpups too.  They are coming early afternoon and leaving well before midnight.  I have lots to do to get ready so keeping it short.

I finished The Evening and the Morning.  FANTASTIC (!!)  I started Group for bookclub -- good so far.  I also started The Fall on Prime.  Three seasons -- cat and mouse suspense.  Eek, so good.

I made a GF one bowl apple cake for today -- strange recipe, but seems good.  Chicken dish, green bean dish and salad for dinner.  Artichoke dip for the afternoon.  I also am making Bourbon Fizz drinks again since they were a hit on Christmas Eve.  No alcohol for me -- my body is desperate for inflammation recovery.

Have a wonder day -- stay safe, stay well.  Glad for January this year.  Later gators.

21 for 2021 Recap

A little background again.  This list is anything I want -- fun, easy, challenging, inspiring, etc.  I make it in December of the previous year and use it as a reminder of things I want to do this year.  It's fun and intentional and isn't that what life is ... lots of little things adding up to a good year.

I changed one (horseback riding) because I didn't want to aggravate my back.  I've been riding a few times over my life and it didn't seem worth it anymore.  I added the Peloton challenge which you need to ride live on a milestone number and "hope" you get a shoutout.  

The GOOD:

    1. Side braid hair and learn new updo -- DID BOTH

    2. Wear The Green Dress out -- TRAVEL DAY TO NY WEDDING

    3. mini-pot garden and eat something I grow -- CUCUMBERS, TOMATOES AND HERBS

    4. use 2020 yeast purchase for something yummy -- CINNAMON BREAD

    5. intentional gathering (Art of Gathering inspired) -- GIRL'S TRIPS TO ASHEVILLE

    6. stop taking zen melts for sleeping -- YEP

    7. See bff in-person -- IN ASHEVILLE

    8. See college roomie in-person -- IN NY 

    9. make black-n-white cookies -- ELDEST LOVED THEM

    10. make something to display -- crafty me -- PICTURE ON WALL

    11. log 21 hours of Spanish practice -- DAILY PRACTICE NOW

    12. do a ONE HOUR long meditation -- LONG, BUT I DID IT

    13. FIVE mile run -- TREADMILL FOR THE WIN

    14. put up outside Christmas lights on porch -- BACK PORCH SUCCESS 

    15. new RX sunglasses; check out option for Lasix -- GLASSES, NO GO FOR LASIX

    16. live shout-out on Peloton -- GOT 2 IN ONE CLASS

The Ones Not Done (COVID)

    1. visit bee and honey farm -- CLOSED

    2. take a pottery class on the wheel -- INDOORS AND DIDN'T FEEL COMFORTABLE

The One Hormone Related In-Complete

    1. more bedroom time with hubby -- DANG HORMONES 

The Ones I Missed

    1. golf -- DIDN'T EVEN TRY

    2. sub 24 min 5K -- NOT ENOUGH FOCUS ON THIS (improved but not close enough)

Not too shabby, says me.

The three I still want to accomplish (either moving to 22 list or just carry-overs) are bedroom time, golf and sub 24 run.  All are possible if I make the effort and all are things I still want to accomplish.

HARDEST:

Garden

MOST PROUD:

Spanish

EASIEST:

Stop taking zen melts

MOST FUN:

Seeing college roommate in-person

FIRST ONE:

black-n-white cookies (I think)

LAST ONE:

5 mile run

ONE THAT SURPRISED ME:

Wear The Green Dress out (didn't think I'd do it)

BIGGEST DISAPPOINTMENT:

bedroom time

22 for 2022 list coming soon.  Later gators.

5-Mile Run

I did it -- treadmill style, but that's doesn't matter.  5 mile run was the goal.  Man, I'm glad to have that checked off just under the gun for the end of 2021.  My knee was fine -- only issue was a rub spot on my foot.  No blister though.  Recap of the 21 for 2021 list coming soon.  

Spent the day clearing off the dining room table which was a catch-all after the trip.  Opened a box of goodies from my bestie -- lots of fun stuff this year.  Iced coffee pot, handmade coasters, book, homemade chocolate, handmade soup bowl holders for hot bowls, dog toy and dog ornaments.  

And I READ -- 300 pages of reading.  The book is so good.  I love this trilogy and his storytelling.  You'd think it would be boring, but it's a page turner.  Have a few books to get through before the new ones arrive.  Time to get reading.  

I opened Jen Hatmaker's bookclub pick.  Group (Christie Tate).  I thought it was another similar book that I've read, but it's not.  I need to get this going for bookclub this month.

Today is a grocery store run for NYE.  That's all.  Workout, morning routine and reading.  Chill day ahead of a foster coming soon.

Did I mention I have a honker of a fever blister from eating like crap?  Too much of all the things.  It's really uncomfortable right now.  I also have a big old burn on my forearm from Christmas that's raw and open.  I keep hitting it on things because of where it is -- bandages make it feel worse.  I'm in a bit of a messy mess state.  

Cleaning up all the things ahead of January 1 -- me and my house.  I love a fresh start and the new year.  It's cliche, but I don't care.  I also need to write out the things that I loved about 2021 -- what I'm proud of, what made me happy, what I changed.  I did this the last 2 years and it's a nice focus before looking forward.

Have a good day and stay well.  Later gators.

Lots of Updates

Lots to check-in on today so a list works best ... in random brain order.

(1)  We came home yesterday evening.  We stayed so we could meet with a blinds contractor to put up a sunshade in the kitchen.  With no leaves on the big trees, the sun is bright and intense all afternoon in the kitchen.  It was a quick appointment -- knew exactly what I wanted.  (More once it's installed in a couple of months.)  Since I had finished cleaning that morning, we decided very last minute to hit the road home.

(2)  Updated some things on my computer and now the phone and computer are compatible again.  I'll switch to the new laptop soon (Christmas gift).  I was proud I figured out how to download an update to make it work -- that's never happened in my 51 years.

(3)  Started The Evening and the Morning (Ken Follett).  Prequel to The Pillars of the Earth (one of my favorite books).  Just 900 pages!  I finished One By One (Ruth Ware) and it was a fun suspense book. Working through my purchased books because I have a few books arriving in January.

(4)  5 mile run in 2021 is in a very precarious position.  Massive rain coming this afternoon lasting until Monday.  It's windy, muggy and in the 60s this morning -- not going for it outside today.  I think I'll try a treadmill run and see what happens.  If I can't do it on the treadmill (because of my knee), I'll have to catch it next week.  I'm bummed I didn't push the last outside run.

(5)  New foster INCOMING this week.  I couldn't say no.  Found in a ditch, covered with maggots, fur matted his eyes closed and he has big wounds on his backside.  Stuck at the shelter with no significant vet care.  I named him Chip.  Shelter thinks he's a senior.  Poor baby -- vet care starting today once he's out of the shelter.  Asshole people.

(6)  Fun Christmas gift from my youngest.  Espresso pot and it works like a charm.  Easy to use, easy to clean.  Fabulous for Asheville.

(7)  Duke being dramatic waiting for his Christmas toys to appear.

(8)  Gift to hubby.  Telescoping ladder.  It's kind of amazing how small it collapses.  

(9)  Holidays are NOT OVER YET for me.  One more to go since hubby invited kids over for NYE.  Ugh.  To say I'm not in the mood is an understatement.  I'm not doing much, but even that feels like more than I wanted to do.  I feel like a schmuck doing NOTHING on NYE though.  People pleasing never totally goes away.

(10)  Really, really can't wait for January and time to get my routine back in order.  December kind of took a nose dive for me.  Ready to level off again.

Stay well -- so many new cases.  Later gators.

Day After

I have a few pictures, but my phone and old computer are aren't connecting.  I think it might be the cable I'm using.  I'll figure it out.

Christmas was nice too.

We took a mountain walk with both dogs (Monti did well) -- 3 miles of hills.  Going down is the hardest because it's so steep and your thighs BURN.  Brunch was simple -- breakfast sammies and cinnamon rolls from the can.  We opened gifts and watched the new Matrix movie (it was pretty good -- a little confusing at times, of course).  FaceTimed family for a Christmas chat.  Dinner was also simple -- hot beef sammies and french fries.  Bed and a book for me -- football for the guys.

The weather was 70+ degrees -- crazy for December in Asheville.  BTW, weather for ATL the rest of the week is warm, muggy and wet ... bummer.

Today I start weaning desserts off my plate again.  So many cookies, so much Slush Cake.  I'm ready, but I'll probably need a transition day because I bet my body has a fit (!!)

Short and sweet today until I can get pictures to load.  

Hope you had a happy holiday.  Later gators.  

Merry Christmas (!!)

We had a really nice day yesterday.

Dinner was delicious -- we ate really late because we were too full from the afternoon snacks.  A couple of neighbors brought over goodies and left them at the door.  So sweet.  We watched No Sudden Move (HBO).  I sagged out about halfway in a sugar coma.  I'll have to find out if it ended well.

Played a couple of easy games.  

Bourbon Fizz drink from Half Baked Harvest was the hit of the night.  Wow -- I had a couple of sips, so unique with winter flavors.  It's all about good maple syrup that gets infused with a bunch of spices.  The Champagne Cocktail was a bomb -- horrible flavor.  I stuck with a few glasses of wine (hence the sugar coma).

Walk up the Asheville mountain outside our door this morning.  Brunch, gifts, games and the Matrix movie tonight.  Fun day ahead.  Dinner is sliced beef sammies and french fries -- easy peasy.  

Merry Christmas (!!)

Merry Christmas Eve

Trying to make a Slush Cake in a different kitchen -- omg, not my best idea.  

First, I forgot the recipe.  Online ones vary, but I found one that seemed the most similar.

Then I forgot the powdered sugar -- BACK to the crazy busy grocery store in Asheville.

Oven seems to be having trouble on regular setting.  I baked the base for twice as long and it was still raw.  Finally convection bake seemed to get the job done.  (Might be grilling the meat today.)

The hand mixer is no stand mixer and I made a hell-of-a mess blending the cream cheese layer.

Finally, it's all finished and hopefully yummy.  Good lord -- I should've stuck with a make ahead cake and frozen it.  My "easiest dessert" was a big old pain in the butt.  I'm glad I made it last night instead of this morning.  Still learning what works for the Asheville kitchen.  BTW -- the freezer is a lifesaver.  Best decision to get a big one.

Today is the BIG cooking day.  I have it under control, but it still ends up a full kitchen day.

Youngest arrives this afternoon and I'm excited to see him.  Let Christmas fun begin (!!)

I'm still processing some stuff around my eldest not coming though.  I feel sad for them (even though I was upset at his decisions).  Separated in quarantine on their first married Christmas is a huge bummer.  He's feeling okay, still sick but a lot improved.

And I'm processing a comment my sister made that she was glad my son felt horrible (on the 3rd day) because he deserves it.  Her words were "good, I'm glad."  I said I didn't want him to feel horrible at all and she said that she did -- what?!?!?  I told her I absolutely didn't agree and she doubled-down again saying she was glad and he deserved it (because he was late getting a booster and decided to go to the work party).  Ouch.  We talk multiple times a day and haven't spoken since that exchange on Tuesday.  When her 2 sons had COVID, I checked in on how they were feeling, etc.  Radio silence from her.  I texted a couple of random things and got a couple word reply -- very cold shoulder in our chatty world.  Guess this is her play -- ignore the situation until it's over?!?!  I don't know how I feel about the entire situation.  I'll see what the next week brings.  Christmas is a big old shitty rollercoaster this year.  

I'm trying to focus on the good stuff -- and there's lots of it.  I'm ready for the other half of the 50-50 though. 

Merry Christmas.  (Is it January yet??)

Let it begin ...

It's kind of shocking that TOMORROW is Christmas Eve.  That's our big dinner celebration and I can't wrap my head around the fact that it's NOW.

Three more days of holiday push and a few days of holiday cleanup (first in Asheville, then in GA) -- then 2022. 

Yesterday was a good day.  Duke and I ended up going the full 4 miles (yea, Duke) and walking one for a cool down.  That little dog is a runner.  I won't take him on the 5 mile run -- that's pushing it for the little guy.  Did the cooking prep, mostly packed the car and ready for the trip today.

I made the infused maple syrup for the bourbon drink -- omg it smells so good.  Cardamon pods, cinnamon sticks, ginger and star anise (which looks like a spider - yuck).  I started with fancy bourbon barreled syrup that already had a hint of extra flavor.  Bourbon doesn't agree with me, but I'm going to try a sip or two just for the syrup.

I need to pack clothes this morning and the coolers.  When we get to Asheville, I'll do the final grocery store run for salad greens and veggies.

Friday is a big, long day which starts with making the Slush Cake.  Layers of yum -- super easy, but takes a minute to do.  Then it's appetizers and the fancy meal.  I need some luck cooking the beef in a new oven. 

Weather is going to be unseasonable warm in Asheville.  Good and bad.  Not as cozy, but lends to outside time better.  Christmas will be in the 70s (!!)  We plan to stay until Tuesday morning.  I'll check in as I can and remember to take some pictures.  New phone with a great camera and I haven't taken one picture yet.

My eldest is feeling better (for now -- hope it stays that way) and my DIL has no symptoms.  They are continuing quarantine and she'll test today (as an extra precaution).  They'll both test again after the 10 day mark.

Wishes for the best holiday possible this year -- hang in there.  This latest wave feels really hard.  Stay well.  Later gators.

Christmas Spirit??

I had the coaching call yesterday.  It was okay.  Nothing earth shattering.  (I need to figure out how to use the call a little better -- so far it's not the AWESOME I expected.)  Anyway ... the only real take-away was to not judge myself for having feelings about people not keeping their word.  Be disappointed.  Be angry.  Be frustrated.  Allow it, don't judge it and that then I can work through it.  Once the big emotion is over, I can figure out how to handle things going forward (do I need a boundary, do I need to accept this is how this person does things, etc).

I finished Americanah and it was very good.  Well worth the read, but it was an intense story.  I'm looking for something lighter over Christmas.  I'll pick today.

Outside run with Duke this morning and that always gives me a mood boost.  Last week I ran 4 miles, this week is 3 (+ a bit if he can handle it) -- preparation for the (hopeful) 5 mile run next week.  Last thing I'm able to get off my 21 for 2021 list.  Almost time for year in review and finalizing the 22 for 2022 list.  That's kind of fun.

Grocery shopping was a madhouse yesterday.  It ended up raining heavily all day (not in the forecast) and that was a mess doing the shopping, but it's finished.  It felt way more crowded than Thanksgiving.  One last shop in Asheville for salad fixings (that doesn't travel well in the cooler -- too cold or too warm).

Little by little I'm getting some Christmas spirit back.  I'm trying to feel the feelings, but not intensify them by playing crappy thoughts in my head all day.  I want to enjoy this next week or so and that includes the prep and cooking.  And, we all know, the mama leads her group.  If I'm crapping out, it spreads ... if I'm happy, things are so much nicer for everyone.

Short and sweet again today.  Stay well.  Later gators.

New Phone

I have a new phone.  So far, so good.  It's a little bigger and a little heavier, but I like it.  Learning the swipe up instead of the home button isn't bad (my phone was OLD and still had the button).

Apple Store was efficient and required everyone to be masked -- they even enforced it.  Well done, Apple. This was different from the visit to order the phone.  Employees were masked, but otherwise optional.  Had to set up face recognition at home because masks had to stay on.

Atlanta is leading the GA surge in cases which is different from previous waves -- mask mandate was lifted a few months ago.  That's where eldest contracted COVID (positive test results).  Store mandates are coming back.  GA will never have a state mandate (unfortunately) but it can happen on lower levels.

QuaranTina is back in full force.  Let the pseudo hibernation begin.  

I have the chat with my coach today and take a wild guess what we're talking about??  Yep, people not keeping their word and it creates shit for me.  Not just with Christmas.  It seems to be a "thing" in my life right now.  

Lots to do today and feeling like doing nothing.  I'm happy for Christmas, but I've lost spark for the preparation.  Feels heavy and lackluster.  Maybe the coaching call will help with some perspective.

I'm really, really ready for January.  Anyone else?!?

Debbie Downer (a bit)

December was heading toward such a fun month and it's been way more of a challenge than fun.

I know, that's life and in the scheme of things, not a big deal.  But, I'm over it and ready for January.

The internet in Asheville is down AGAIN.  We aren't able to trouble-shoot so far.  Let's take MORE away from Christmas fun options -- no TV, no music, no computer.  Signal isn't strong enough to create a hotspot.

Ugh.  I'm a Debbie Downer today.

On a better front -- Christmas baking is finished.  Since the eldest and DIL aren't coming (they were bringing cookies and dessert) I added some more cookie baking.  I'm trying to make this feel like a Christmas celebration still.

I'm not looking forward to doing all the cooking again.  Son and DIL takes the lead on brunch, but now it's back to me.  Two big dinners and brunch.

I'm going to google games to play with only 3 people.  I bought a new game for Christmas, but you need more than 3 people -- of course.

Lots of feelings still.  I hope I can work through them by Christmas.  I really want to have a nice weekend with hubby and my youngest.  Monthly isn't helping, but I am thankful it came this week and not on Christmas.

Am I being a jerk for not doing a second Christmas?  I don't think so, but that's what people are suggesting.  Why don't you postpone?  Why don't you have a second celebration?  Why -- because that's not fair to our youngest and who knows if the postponement date will work AND I don't want to do all that work again.  

BTW, so far eldest is feeling okay.  I'm not overly concerned that he's going to be seriously sick.  That could change, of course, but I think it's a nuisance more than anything.  I'll do everything to help him on that front.

I took a live sing-a-long Peloton ride yesterday.  I've taken old ones and they are great rides.  This year it wasn't a live group in the studio and all she talked about was how much better it is in a group.  Ugh.  It fit the mood.  Not a very up-lifting.

Okay, I'm depressing myself more.  Until tomorrow ... stay safe.  Later gators.

Bummer News

Yesterday was a poop of a day. 

RAIN and fog like crazy for the drive.  

Call from my eldest on the way home.  He had a COVID exposure at a work holiday party on Thursday.  He JUST got his booster on Monday, no masks at the party and spent the afternoon and evening around the mystery co-worker. 

Lovely.  I asked the kids to be boostered by Christmas.  (I've been asking since early November.)  He and his wife just got theirs (hers was on Thursday as he was getting exposed).  My youngest hasn't gotten the booster because "appointments were booking weeks out."  So book one -- duh.  

Grown people.  Nothing I can do, but I'm super annoyed with them all.  No one boostered as they're eating inside, going to the gym, socializing with people they don't know well.

Eldest has his first PCR test today and another on Tuesday.  He's not symptomatic.  Obviously, if either test is positive or he develops symptoms, no go for Christmas.  

And I won't postpone.  It's a lot of work moving things to Asheville -- their idea.  I won't go through that work a second time because they (he) made stupid choices and were lackadaisical about getting the booster.  

I hope this is a non-issue (and a lesson for them all).  I'll be super disappointed to have Christmas be a dud.

UPDATE:  He's sick.  Getting tested today, but it's COVID.  Dang.

Last night was actual agony from my monthly.  Cramps like I've never had before.  That part is over now.  Makes sense it was bad given how the last couple months have gone.  Man, I'm ready for it to be over.  I'm drained this morning.

Today is the switch to all-things-Christmas-meals.  A bit more baking, grocery shopping (once here and once when I get to Asheville) and prep/cooking Thursday though Saturday.  It's the last minute push and the busiest week.

Then 2021 holidays are a wrap.  I'm ready for a "nothing" January.

Stay well.  Later gators.

Heading Home

I bagged the party.  I follow a few science sources for COVID and numbers are climbing (I've been out of the loop for a little bit).  I looked at recommendations and I was fine as long as I was OUTSIDE.

I have a bird's eye view of the house and party setup and things were setting up heavily for inside too.  I realized it was very possible ladies would gather in the kitchen and men outside by the fire.  I texted the host and explained I got nervous right ahead of Christmas and needed to take a pass.  I apologized for the last minute change.

As I mentioned, even in daylight, I can see inside her house.  At dark, it's practically like I'm there lol.  The ENTIRE PARTY was inside all evening.

And, as it turns out, my mood, etc was my monthly -- coming 3 weeks late.  Or probably, more accurately, coming whenever it feels like it now.  December timing isn't horrible (although one more day would've been better).  Drive home in the rain and I'll need to make some pitstops.

I'm crazy happy I changed my mind on the party.  I was getting more and more nervous about being around people ahead of next week.  I'd rather not go then go and leave super fast because it was indoors.

Here are a few more decoration pictures.

Added a little star tree topper 
from a local shop.

Garland courtesy of Amazon.

Star by day.

New Christmas mug
from Anthropology

It's POURING RAIN.  This isn't going to be my best drive today.  Dang and dang.  My only regret is not leaving yesterday.  Oh well.  I'm in no rush.  Slow driving and as many bathroom breaks as I need.

Happy Saturday -- have a great day.  Later gators.

Having a Plan!

Yesterday was WAY BETTER ... desperately needed a plan to make the day work.  Love my friend, but she's all over the map with decisions.  Whiplash queen.

Even with a plan, she kept trying to change up timing (e.g. driving vs walking, where we parked, what time we left, dinner reservations, etc).  I kept firm to the plan WE decided and we actually got to do things instead of spinning in circles.

She's leaving today early afternoon, at noon, by 10 o'clock, at 8 o'clock, latest 10 o'clock as soon as she gets up.  Seriously, no exaggeration.  Guess our plans for breakfast and a walk are out the window this morning. 

That said, I had a great day.  Accepting how she shows up helped a lot.  This is her -- she spins and expecting different is fighting reality.  There's TONS to love about her and I try to focus on those qualities -- the wishy washy is just an annoyance for me.  I'm okay that I'm annoyed about it (probably will always annoy me), but it doesn't change how I feel about her.  

Massages were amazing.  Weather was great.  Good conversation.  Ate at two nice restaurants.  Shopping was on the mark (finished Christmas).  Enjoyed a tea house.  Very nice time.

I debated leaving this morning instead of tomorrow (raining all day) since she's getting on the road early.  I don't think I can swing it though.  Too much to do and I'd be rushed and tired making it happen.  Best to pace the day.  Now I have ALL DAY and need to rework what I'll do today.  I expected to have just the afternoon to myself doing cleanup chores.  It's kind of fun though.

I'm also not looking forward to the backyard gathering tonight because I'm a bit over-chatted and not interested in the introduction conversation on repeat.  Means to an end though.  If I want to get to know this couple (and our neighbors) this is an unavoidable step.  And I'm going alone which is extra pressure.  Smile on my face and give it a go -- taking one for the team.  AND, come on, it's a holiday gathering and we made the small invite list -- that feels good.

Have a great day.  Later gators. 

Little "Off" Day

Yesterday was a little "meh" on my part.  

I didn't have a lot of sleep the night before (hubby snoring, me having trouble falling back to sleep).

By the time I got to Asheville, unloaded a car-full for Christmas prep, readied things up and greeted my girlfriend ... I was EXHAUSTED.  We drove downtown because it gets dark so early, but my energy was still tanked.

The walk around downtown was a bit of a bust.  I think it was an energy thing.  Hopefully this afternoon's shopping is better.

I left a lot of choices up to my friend (her birthday and she knows Asheville well).  That was a mistake.  We were all over the map with decisions.  Today is PLANNED and that will work MUCH BETTER.  

We ate munchies at home instead of dinner (good and bad).  It was nice to be home and in jammies, but dinner was all things cheese (basically).  I had some of the wine she brought me -- very good red.  I'm NOT drinking tonight though.  One and done on that -- I feel it this morning.

We rented a The Holiday (movie) on my friend's suggestion.  I'd seen it already -- turns out she did too.  We watched about 5 minutes and talked our way through the rest of it.  Oh well.  

Hopefully, today takes better shape.  Yesterday wasn't didn't run smoothly.  Noon 90 minutes massages should help make the day feel loads better!!

Until tomorrow ... later gators.

Wednesday Updates

Travel day again.  This time alone -- Christmas music and podcasts.  Not a bad way to start a trip.

I got everything finished yesterday.  Cheese balls made (the recipe makes TONS --- I'm freezing some to see if I can use it for Christmas).  Stuffed mushrooms -- also freezing as an experiment for Christmas.  Both a cheese ball and stuffed mushrooms are tricky to freeze, but worth a little wonky if I can make ahead.

I ran 4 miles.  It was an effort and my back is off a bit this morning.  Not sure if that's more from kitchen and wrapping then the run though.  Getting closer to the 5 mile run to end the year.

Coaching call was good.  We talked about what to talk about -- weekly calls seem like a lot.  I feel more relaxed about not need to come with a "problem."  We chatted about people pleasing as it relates to social eating and drinking.  That was weighing on me for this trip in particular.  My GF likes to drink with a partner and can get a little pushy (questioning, offering many times).  I'll probably drink a bit, but I don't want to drink every night.  We talked about standing for myself before others in this kind of situation.  Why I feel the need to conform.  The dynamics of our friendship.  Keeping in my lane.  

My coach is a pediatrician and she likes to take things back to childhood.  At first, I didn't love that questioning -- my childhood is over, but I'm actually finding it insightful.  Oh, that's why I think this way and I can let that thinking go now.  I need to keep a more open mind.  I think I know it best lol -- yet, I want help from coaching.

I'm reading Americanah and it's different than I expected.  I knew it was an acclaimed novel, but I thought it would be less enjoyable of a story and more of an important read.  But the story is so good (and important too).  It's the kind of book you want to keep reading.  It's very long though and I'm only 250 pages into a 600 page book.  Not sure if I will finish it by Sunday's bookclub.

That's a quick update from here.  Have a great day (feels like a weekend to me -- I'll be mixed up all week).  Later gators.

Coaching Day

Coaching call day -- update tomorrow.  I'm having those thoughts again that WHAT DID I DO ... is this actually worth it?  Do I have things she can actually help me with more than I can help myself?

I'm listening to a big list of coaching calls from Brooke Castillo under VIP status (member for 6 months).  They are SO GOOD.  (And contributing to why-do-I-need-private-coaching thoughts when this is helping on many levels.)

This morning was a reminder that overwhelm is caused by thoughts.  Yesterday I felt massively overwhelmed and woke up ready for another day of "too much to do."  Only my thoughts.  Listening to Brooke coach someone on this issue was helpful.  Brooke's point is that indulging in the thoughts that make you feel overwhelmed doesn't help to get anything done and makes you feel like crap in the process.  Choose another thought (nothing else changes), but you have a much more enjoyable experience doing all the things.

Truth.

Back to yesterday -- I did what I needed to do plus wrapped all the Christmas gifts and made the sausage balls ahead.  Busy day that left me feeling like I have no downtime ahead of this trip.  Not true.  I'll manage today with better thoughts.

Remember how I wanted to enjoy this couple of weeks instead of getting lost in to-dos?  I didn't do that yesterday and a good day felt kind of crappy.

Outdoor run this morning once the temperature goes up.  I'm STILL wanting to get in the 5 mile run before 2022.  My hope today is to add a bit to the 3 mile usual run.  I'll see how my back feels though.  I don't want to have back pain ahead of this trip.  Kitchen time gives me back troubles so I have to pace things.

Two quick recipes on the list.  Cheese ball and stuffed mushrooms.  I'm making the mushrooms again to see how they freeze so maybe it can be a make-ahead for Christmas.  I'm making a small batch to test.  

Last for today is packing for the trip -- picking outfits for the fun few days.  That's the challenge of packing -- what to wear.  I'm still playing around with colder weather options.  And, the afternoons are going to be warmer so I need to accommodate for that too.  Fun "problem" to have -- I guess.  It feels a bit overwhelming so I need to clean up thoughts on that too.  Overwhelm is a traditional holiday theme for me :)

Have a great day.  That's my intention for today too.  Later gators. 

Two Day Turn-Over

We made it home yesterday, but not without a hiccup.

Nail in our tire.  My car alerts to pressure issues and it alerted to a drop, but then held steady.  We thought it might be the temperature change but it wouldn't hold air.  

Zippy quick drive to Costco Tire Center before their service cutoff time and $11 later, all fixed.  Costco WINS so many times.

I got my Costco shopping done too -- wine, beef, cheese (the holiday triad).  Changed up my plans for yesterday, but I'm grateful it was an easy fix and nothing complicated.

Now I have 2 days to turn around a lot of things to get ready to go back to Asheville.  Some for the birthday celebration, some for Christmas plans.  AND, I got invited to an outdoor, vaccinated holiday open house Friday evening -- hostess gift and clothes for an outdoor event added to the list (choosing the bigger life so I'm going).

Our trip next week will have another packed car if I don't take stuff up this week.  That means wrapping some of the gifts, bringing some of the freezer food, etc.  I'll do what I can to get ready.  

Best laid plans and then something comes up (nail in tire).  I relax when I'm prepared and that means being a little ahead of schedule.  Best news is I have these 2 days to myself (hubby left on a business trip).  I can spread out, leave stuff all over the counter, leave gifts out, do all my things in full space.  He would be fine if I spread into all the areas because I'm on a tight timeline, but I feel bad taking over the house with my projects.

On a random side note -- saw a baker I follow on IG say type into your search engine, "I need more" and see the first option.  Hers was COOKIES.  Mine was SPACE.  Wow.

And here's the freezer.  Big, clunky in the space but it WORKS ... amen.  Sets for either freezer or refrigerator and has lots of space.

Today I have 3 "big" must-dos and a few optional hope-to-do.  Grocery shop for the appetizers, make the 7 day cookie dough balls, make the pinwheels.  Optional is wrapping some gifts, house chores and start packing.  Tuesday is FULL and I'm trying to offload some things.

Welcome to the holiday scramble.  Two week for me this year.  I need to remember to enjoy it.  Have a good start to the week.  Later gators.

Looking Like Christmas in Asheville

I did a little decorating in Asheville -- looks like Christmas.  I only decorated half the downstairs, but it feels decorated enough for us to enjoy.  Maybe a bit more next year to include the family room.  

I ABSOLUTELY need better wreaths -- they are cheap and look it.  I used one laying flat in my office and that looks fine.  Hanging the others makes it's obvious how sparse and chintzy.  By next year we should have a picture over the fireplace too.  

Freezer made it fine.  I'll take a picture later today.  We'll turn it on this morning with crossed fingers the move didn't damage it.  It needed to sit upright after moving it before it's turned on.  It's an odd place for a freezer, but our only choice.

Spent the evening with pizza takeout watching The Morning Show.  Not a bad way to spend the evening.

House cleaning today.  It looks nice and tidy, but it's DIRTY.  Dust everywhere, sheets need to be washed.  Time for the monthly deep clean -- cue the backache.  

First a quiet morning, Peloton ride and a walk to coffee (break in the rain until this afternoon).

Happy Saturday.  Later gators.

Road Trip in the Rain

Wish us luck.

Luck with the freezer -- we were dumb to have it delivered here.  What were we thinking?  Can we lift it? Will it fit in the car?  Unloading in the pouring rain.  Dang, I'd take a do-over on this decision.

Luck with fitting in one car.  Luck with an ugly, rainy drive.

I'm looking forward to being there though.  It's been a solid month for me and I miss it.  I think we'll stay until Sunday morning.  Driving and cleaning on the same day is hard on my back.  I'm excited to get it set for Christmas.  I'm glad we brought up the tree early -- just need to add a few ornaments and that's set.

Then I hit the baking and cooking ground running ahead of the next 2 weeks.  It's going to be a fun whirlwind.  Two weeks of holiday RUSH I can handle and actually enjoy (followed by doing nothing for a hot minute, of course).

I ate lunch at a new place yesterday -- pizza place with individual outdoor heated pods.  My friend noticed the pods and it worked well.  We kept the door flap open, but it was so much warmer than open air.  It ended up being about 40 degrees, overcast and windy.  That's a bit much for even me.  Nice that we know an option for the winter.  I had an apple and blue cheese salad -- really tasty.  Dressing had a bit of nutmeg so it tasted like the holidays.  The pizza looked great and they have a GF option (I think).  I'll have to give that a try.  Hubby and I are getting pizza takeout this weekend, so I passed this time.

Whole Foods was a success.  I only got fresh veggies for yesterday and frozen will carry me until the next store run.  They have a super good selection of vegan, vegetable frozen meals.  I'm using them this weekend so I don't need to go to the store in Asheville. 

Christmas gifts continue to arrive.  I'll take pictures at some point.  A few fun things.

Check-in this weekend is unlikely (unless hubby sleeps late).  Have a great weekend (!!)  Later gators.

Hello, Thursday (just figuring this out)

Got in the outside run yesterday and I'm relieved.  It's been a few weeks since I've run outside (treadmill instead) and outside is simply better -- better mentally, better physically.  Duke NEEDED that run.  We did a decent clip for 3 miles and then walked 2 miles.  Lots of miles for Duke (!!)  

I want to get in the 5 mile run before 2022 and it's cutting VERY close.  I'll say, I can't imagine running the extra 2 miles yesterday.  I was beat after 3.  My plan is 4 next week and 5 Christmas week.  Fingers crossed all the elements behave (weather, legs, etc).  Why did I put this on the list?!!? Hah!

New phone is ordered and shipping sometime in December.  I got the 13 Pro Max in white.  My phone having lots of trouble -- it's an 8.  The appointment worked well and we were in-n-out in 20 minutes.  I'll bring the phone and my wonky working watch to the store when it arrives and have them do all the setup.  I'm THAT person, but I don't care.  I'm paranoid that I'll do something that erases all my stuff -- and, I know, the cloud is a backup ... but, still.

Today is lunch with my foster friend.  It's going to be chilly (!!)  45 degrees, but we'll survive.  Hopefully, outdoor seating is open or we'll have to have a plan B -- neither of us eats inside.

I'll make a stop at Whole Foods on the way home.  It's right around the corner and I'm out of fresh stuff again.

I finished both books yesterday and started Jen Hatmaker's bookclub selection.  Americanah (Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie).  It's LONG -- over 500 pages of careful reading.  I finished the first chapter and it's really good.  That said, I hear it helps to have a character chart as you read.  Oh boy.  Glad I started it next.  I don't know if I can make bookclub this month, but I don't want to sit on this book or I may never be up for the challenge.

The Friendship List (Susan Mallery) was a total trash read, but sort of entertaining.  LOTS of graphic sex chat and ending with the perfectly sweet wrap-up -- can't read too much of that kind of book, but fun for a quick add-in.  Remember (Lisa Genova) was very interesting.  Explanation of memory and forgetting in layman's descriptions.  Good tips (especially for learning Spanish), thoughtful and interesting.  

I can't forget I'm leaving for Asheville tomorrow morning.  It JUST dawned on me -- guess not a lot of Whole Foods shopping today.  I'm so mixed up this week since hubby was on a vacation trip over the weekend.  

We have to load a HUGE stand up freezer into the car tomorrow.  Wish my back luck.  Sizing was tough -- either way too small or this is the next size.  It's like an apartment refrigerator size.  We're going to try and take one car, but I don't think it's possible.  We'll see tomorrow.

Okay, best get moving.  Have a great day and stay well.  Later gators. 

Busy Day?

I thought I had nothing on the calendar today ... I need to write things down.

Cleaning crew this morning -- the new day of the week isn't set into my memory yet.  That kind of messed up my plans for the morning.

Taking Duke on an outside run today (his energy is off the charts) -- or so is the plan, but the rain hasn't moved out as expected.  I need to commit early because the cleaning crew will be here this morning.  Peloton EARLY or something outside (even in the rain).  Frustrating because the week is basically empty, yet things converge at the same time.  Hurry up, rush, rush ... only to have nothing to do the rest of the day.

That said, hubby and I are going to try the Apple Store this afternoon to get me (and maybe him) a new phone.  I bet we arrive and turn around and leave.  They don't take appointments anymore and it's ALWAYS a zoo.  I can only imagine it now.  I'm not in a huge rush.  After Christmas is fine too.

I baked cookies yesterday which I'll freeze for Christmas.  Oatmeal raisin for the youngest and sour cream softies for me.  Two more kinds to make.  The 7 day chocolate chips cookies that I'll start on Sunday and last minute magic cookie bars that hubby likes for Christmas.  

I wore one of my new blazers from Social Threads.  I love that blazers are popular again.  It's a nice option for winter in GA -- layers work better than a sweater.  Sharp and tailored look that's so easy to pull together.  I wore it with white sneakers which massively comfortable.  This is the first time I can remember being on trend at the beginning of a trend.  My feet hope the sneakers trend stays FOREVER.

My energy is low this week.  I should've had my monthly a few days ago, but since I had it on and off for all of November who knows when it'll be back.  But I feel the hormone wonkiness -- background headache, stomach is off, energy is off.

That's all from here.  I need to get the house in order for the cleaning crew.  I have stuff spread all over getting ready to go to Asheville because I totally forgot they were coming today.  My bad.  It'll feel nice to have a clean house though -- no complaints from me.

Have a great day.  Later gators.

Tuesday Things

Good morning.  

It feels good to have my nails back in order.  I got a clear shimmer on my fingers.  It's probably more like a fine glitter.  My pointer finger nail is still super wonky from the knife cut so this was a good choice to not draw attention to it.  I got a similar one last time, but it had a light gray color base.

Toes are back to a gray/blue.  One of my go-to colors.  I had a deep red and for some reason I love a red at first but get really sick of it before long.  I say I'm not going to do a red over the holidays, but usually get romanticized into getting it.  Holiday spirit takes over.  That was one and done for this year.

Finished the puzzle -- very enjoyable.  Not an all-the-time thing, but it's fun for a rainy day.  Technically, it's my first one (solo one).  

I'm making slow progress on 2 books.  Remember (Lisa Genova) -- non-fiction about the science of memory and The Friendship List (?) about a bucket list between friends needed to get unstuck in their lives.  Neither is wowing me (although okay enough), but I think it's me, not the books.  I was thinking about doing an audible for the upcoming drives to Asheville for the bookclub selection.  I've never done an audible so I need to figure it out.  Also, not sure I'd be able to pay attention enough to listen to a book AND drive.  Seems like I'd zone out and miss sections.

Looks like the next couple of drives are solo rides for me.  We're leaving Friday to take up the freezer and big mirror so I think we'll need 2 cars to bring everything.  Trip with my girlfriend was going to be a ride together, then not, then yes and now not again.  Head spinning.  It's what she does ... who she is ... and I need to expect it about EVERYTHING.  This wasn't the only head spinning changes recently.

Speaking of that ... I've been listening to lots of coaching calls with Brooke Castillo now that I'm VIP status (opens a bunch of content).  Super helpful with friend stuff.  A few calls that really hit home about my feelings toward friendship frustrations.  And you guessed it, ME, not THEM.  Choice of what I do (accept) is always mine, but beating my head in frustration isn't the answer.  

Boys are heading to the groomers this morning.  I'm doing a Total Wines pickup this afternoon.  Getting stuff for both festive trips to Asheville.  One of the Costcos in our area has a Costco liquor store (the other has a privately owned one attached).  Prices are great and they'd have everything I need, but the CROWDS are crazy right now.  I drove by and kept driving.  Not worth the craziness.  Total Wines has good prices too and more reasonably sized bottles.

I still need to redo a to-do list for all things Christmas prep.  I can't seem to get my brain around any organization this week.  Guess I'll randomly pick some things to do and at least start thinning the list.  (Like picking up the liquor and making youngest's cookie selection.)

Have a great day and stay well.  Later gators.

Ready for a New Week

What a wonky week living in my brain -- I'm ready and glad to have a start-over.  Phew.  

I decided to do the puzzle in my office.  It completely takes over my desk, but I can set my computer and drinks on top of it when I'm using the desk.  I'm already about halfway.  Sorting edge pieces and flipping everything over counts toward the halfway mark :)  I also have some groups put together in the puzzle box ready for their fit.

It's fun to do this myself.  It totally stole my experience having hubby working the puzzles too.  I'd stop for the evening with plans to do a certain section the next day, only to find he did it later that night.  AND, he FINISHED every puzzle.  Of course, he left the set up and flipping pieces for me to do each time.  Rude.  I offered him his own side of the table and his own puzzle, but he wouldn't do it.  "I'm just helping, not really doing a puzzle."  Nope.  Now I'm squirreling away puzzles in my office -- it's come to that (!!)

I saw a cooking segment on the Today Show and bought the cookbook.  Vegan recipes for the occasional vegan which means less "strange" things for substitutions that non-vegans don't usually have on-hand.  A lot of the recipes are pasta or bread based, but there are enough to experiment with that are veggie forward.  I'll check out some recipes in January.

Nails this morning and I'm ready for both -- hot mess on my fingers.  Did I mention I cut a second nail with my kitchen knife.  This one hit the skin too.  What the heck?  My toes are ready too -- long and scuffed looking.  I also need to start taking care of my heels for the winter.  It's amazing how quickly they get dry and cracked with a little drop in temperature (and humidity).  I'll feel way more together once both are shaped and pretty again.  Having nails a mess is such a big deal to me -- I never feel put together.  The one nail bed has a long way to grow back though.  At least it doesn't hurt anymore.

Hope you have a good week and are feeling in the holiday spirit.  I'm working on both too.  Stay well.  Later gators.

Sunday Things

I'm slow rolling into a productive week.  A few chores yesterday, a few more today.  Get back at it.  Next week has some social stuff pending weather and that'll be nice.  Once again, I'm back to wanted to get my shit together to enjoy what December has to offer.  Time to make that happen.

I finally made the sweet potato and mushroom soap.  It's okay.  Flavor is missing.  If I make it again, I'll add some more spices.  It calls for paprika and garlic only -- not enough for me.  Maybe ginger to go with the coconut milk?  It's edible so I'll freeze some and have another bowl for dinner tonight.

Cooking a few pounds of bacon today too.  Probably overkill since I didn't need it for Thanksgiving, but you can always use cooked bacon in the freezer.  Possibly making a batch of cookies too -- oatmeal raisin for the youngest.  He gets a lot of crap for his cookie choice haha!  I enjoy oatmeal, but not the raisins.  

I bought a holiday puzzle to work on in the afternoons.  I need something to do late afternoon for a little bit.  Not TV.  Reading would be okay, but books aren't wowing me lately.  Shipping was delayed so I didn't get to do it early enough to finish this weekend.  Hubby like to take over my puzzling so I'm not sure what I'm going to do.  It bugs the crap out of me that he takes it over (married couple problems).  It'll overpower my desk (I think) so I can't leave it in the office ... or maybe I can.  I'll check it out.  That would totally solve my issue.

UPDATE:  Just looked at the box.  It will totally take over my desk, but maybe it's worth it to have it somewhere for me.  BTW -- he NEVER wants to do a puzzle unless I'm doing a puzzle.  Hmmmm, I'll think on this.

Not a whole lot to chat about this morning.  I caught up to current on Succession (HBO Max).  It's really good.  Next episode is tonight.  

Have a great Sunday.  Last of my homebound days before a regular week starts.  I'm ready to get out in the world a little bit again.  This last week was a slippery mental slope.  Later gators. 

That's Out of My System

I chose the sofa-slug day and I'm not sorry.  The "want" to doing nothing was ridiculously strong yesterday so I went with it.

Reading, dog cuddles (and a walk because nothing isn't really NOTHING), next season of Succession (5 episodes so far), snacked for meals -- the whole shebang.  

It felt really good to not even try -- just do nothing (new Nike slogan for "those" days?!?)  No brain discussion, no negotiations, no guilt.  

I'm over it today.  Woke up wanting the usual day -- workout, vegetables, morning routine, etc.  

I don't know what that was, but it was a total flatline kind of day.  I didn't even shower which is super unusual for me.  Almost like a sick day without being sick.  It felt like that.  If this is an isolated thing, I'll just wave goodbye and move on, but if I start feeling it again, I'll need to figure out what's going on.

Of course, I'm not feeling my best physically (although not as bad as I would've thought), but I feel revived mentally.

Probably goes without saying, my to-do list is totally off for the week.  I planned cookies this weekend, but now I'm not sure.  I need to re-group and figure out what makes the most sense.  I'd like to enjoy some outside time this weekend (next week is a lot of rain).  Sunshine will help and I need it (the dogs will be happy too).  And kitchen time feels better COOKING rather than baking after 2 days of junk eating.

Have a great weekend.  This time I'm confident I can pull off a good day too.  Later gators.

Not the Best Day

I FORCED the feel-goods.  Workout, took dogs to the park, ran errands.  Then I mentally crashed -- which means "hit the fridge" for all the comfort foods.  Comfort foods that don't really comfort, but felt good in the moment.

Frozen GF pizza, cheese and crackers, chocolate.  No good for feeling good.  

Not sure what's up.  This could be all hormones again.  I STILL feel like crashing today (no wonder with all the junk).  My brain woke up saying "one more day of doing NOTHING sounds really nice."

I don't feel like fighting or allowing or processing anything for it to be different.  Stay tuned.  I have no idea what I'll choose today.  

Anyway ...

I finished The Gunkle.  It was sweet, predictable and an okay read.  New pick today -- although I might not be in the best place for a pick.  I have 3 in mind.  

(1)  Bookclub pick (Americanah).  This is a hard, careful read.  Lots to pay attention to and lots of unfamiliar names/language, but I want to get it finished for an early bookclub this month.

(2)  Prequel to one of my favorite books (The Evening and the Morning), but reviews are mixed from people who read and loved the other two books.  And it's extremely long.  The other two took a bit to get into before I couldn't put them down.

(3)  A beach read from the stack my girlfriend sent for the LFL.  None that I have left get great reviews, but often, beach reads don't (like suspense books).  The rating bar seems lower since they get rated up against epic novels.  A beach read by definition is easy, predictable (mostly) and ends with something sweet and happy.  Can't fault it for being what it's meant to be, but that shows up in the ratings.

Hearing my argument and knowing my mood, maybe a beach read is best.  Finish it quickly and then decide on the others.

I also watched Under the Tuscan Sun on Prime.  I was in the mood for that kind of predictable story.  I never saw the movie, but read the book a long time ago.

Podcasts galore yesterday too as Brene Brown is making the rounds.  Incredibly good interviews.  

Jen Hatmaker had her virtual bookclub holiday party last night.  It was really awful.  I checked in on it a few times and it missed the mark in every way.  She and a comedian friend chatting.  Sound was bad (too far from her phone), picture and lighting were off (same reason) and the conversation was boring.  Nothing about books when I checked in.  I didn't plan to watch it, but I got a notification and I was in bed reading so I thought I'd give it a try.  Swing and a miss.  To me, the issue was how hard they promoted this live chat -- like it was big and exciting and a don't-miss kind of night with so many laughs from her special guest.  Dress in your best ugly sweater, bring your favorite cocktail, gather with your girlfriends and prepare to wet your pants laughing.  I saw some beginning, middle and end and it was never any of that.  Bummer for people excited for the night.

That's all from here.  I'm hoping for some semblance of good day (life coaching would have field day with this wording and attitude!!).  I know it's TOTALLY up to me, but ME isn't showing up well in this moment -- eek.  What's a gal to do??  Hah.  Hope YOU have a great day.  Later gators.

Hubby Back, Hubby Gone

Hubby came home for 10 hours and is back out the door for a golf vacation.  My little respite is back after a teeny tiny interruption.  

Yesterday ended up being a little different.  I got an early morning call from a good friend (who I just chatted with the day before) and we ended up talking for 3 hours.  Nothing was wrong, but it was a really nice conversation spanning all things.  Since it was an arm day, I postponed my workout until afternoon and spend the morning chatting.

I took this picture for hubby (and to show off my new workout hair style -- a little braid).  I sat like this for a long time (!!)  Monti enjoyed the different morning a lot.

Since I didn't finish my "morning" until mid-afternoon, nothing else got done.  Grocery store pushed until today or tomorrow -- who knows.  I need to regroup my to-do list and figure out what's what.

We all started our advent calendars with yummy success.  The first day for us was dark chocolate (not my favorite), but it was actually very good.  My complaint with dark chocolate is usually how hard it is -- this was creamy and melt-in-your-mouth good.

Dogs got to split their cookie for the day.

Checking it out.

Duke sits for his treats
and Monti dances.

I feel a bit off my game this morning.  I didn't sleep well (hubby snored) and I think hormones are swinging again this week.  I need a big re-group today to add things that will make me feel better.  Sunshine is one of them -- outdoors today is a must.  Maybe a run.  Maybe a long dog walk.  Maybe just me walk.  A good meditation too -- something to center again.

I'm oddly having mixed feelings about being totally alone this weekend.  Strange since I LOVE alone, but everyone is gone or tied up.  There is actually NO possibility to see anyone and that feels lonely in an unexpected way.  Kids and hubby are all separately out of town.  My GF turns 60 tomorrow so her weekend is totally taken (I would've asked her to go for a walk).  My aunt is busy with a holiday party.  Everyone else isn't "weekend" material for something little, last minute -- weekends being prime time in December.

I'm an odd cookie.  I can't wait to be alone and now I'm lonely.  See?  I'm off my game today.  I bet this is just a passing feeling and a little sunshine and nature will put me back on track.

Anyway ...

Two new blazers came in the mail and I love them.  Robin's egg blue and classic navy.  I was so bored with my style and it's been a lot of fun to change things up.  The weather is going to be in the 70s this weekend so wearing them will have to wait.  Pictures coming though.

I have the blahs with reading right now.  Nothing seems super entertaining.  The Gunkle is okay, but heading to what seems like a predictable conclusion.  I started a non-fiction by one of my favorite fiction writers, Lisa Genova.  Remember (The Science of Memory and the Art of Forgetting).  Not far enough read to have a much of an opinion, but it's dry so far.  The reviews say it's scientific but told with her storytelling talent.  I'm waiting for the storytelling bit (!!)

Brene Brown's new book came.  Atlas of the Heart.  It's not what I expected, but I haven't read any of it yet -- just randomly looked at a few pages.  Feels like a dictionary from a quick glance -- not a read cover-to-cover.  I hope I'm wrong.  It's my next non-fiction.

I'm craving a book you start and can't put down.  Maybe it's me and not the books though.  I'm considering an audible book for the bookclub selection.  A number of people are "reading" it that way because of the difficult language (lots of hard names and many characters).  I'll give it a try first.  I should hit this one sooner than later.  

Have a great day.  My intention today is to find my mojo -- can't be too far away.  Later gators.

Coaching Review

It wasn't exactly what I expected, but I don't know what I actually expected.  Maybe more of an "intake" interview -- get to know me better.

I'm trying to remember how coaching started with my last life coach.  I think we started slow-rolling with Whole30 coaching, group coaching program and THEN individual.  By the time individual started, she knew a lot about me.  

This felt a bit odd.

We started and she asked what I wanted to be coached on and that was that.  Right at it.  Very little background.  

I chose to talk about goal setting and dabbling vs high pressure and how I was having trouble living between those two extremes.  We ended up talking about my childhood (surprising to me) and she had a number of good insights of how I formed some deep held beliefs.  

Goals that are worth pursuing must be high pressure and hard.

Results must be outstanding (perfect).

Head down, get it done or you're not working hard enough.

I have to feel out of my league or under water as I push into the goal -- that's how you achieve.

She also gave me a question to do a thought download on.  What's wrong with dabbling?  (Which doesn't feel like "real" goals setting to me.)

She's on vacation next week so I have 2 weeks before the next call.  That's good.  I need a bit of time to process and get my bearings.

Asking better (quality) questions.  I need to learn what to ask and learn how to get straight to the point.  That's often a difference between therapy and life coaching.  

I'm excited about this but I still have reservations about the cost vs value of the coaching.  Out of the gate, I have a lot to think about and I TOTALLY didn't make those connections until she asked me some first memory questions about growing up.  Guess that's a good start.

On another note ...

I didn't make the soup yesterday because I had filet to cook (checked the date and it was time).  I bought it forgetting hubby was on a business trip the first part of this week.  Guess I could've frozen them, but I decided to do a "fancy" dinner for me.  Steak, cauliflower mash, roasted baby broccoli and leftover cranberry sauce.  I set the table and had a delicious dinner.

Grocery store today so soup tomorrow.  Leftover steak tonight.  

I took a couple of lights pictures with the porch lights on and you can sort of make out the colored lights.  Next year upping my game to the front porch too.  I didn't do the front porch because the lights don't go with the wreaths.  I need to change the wreaths or use different lights.  Maybe getting different lights is the less expensive option.

Christmas gifts are arriving and Christmas gifts are delayed.  It seems either they ship immediately or I get a notification a few days after ordering that there's an "unexpected" delay in my order.  Fingers crossed things arrive by Christmas.  I still need to get gifts for my eldest who gave me the vaguest list yesterday.  Athletic wear, watch strap.  DETAILS!!  I need details!  He's a picky, picky clothes guy.  No way I'm blindly selecting.  This isn't my first rodeo with him. Hah!

Anyway, that's all from here for now (I have other stuff to chat about tomorrow).  Have a great day (this week is moving quickly).  Later gators.

Coaching Day

The one and only face-forward interactive thing on my calendar this week, COACHING -- I'm excited.  My guess is this will be more of an introduction call on the specifics of what I want to work on.  The consult call was more general discussions.  I don't expect much "insight" and "improvement" from this first session, but who knows.  Update tomorrow.

I was able to find a good day in the forest of nothing yesterday.  A couple of good catch up conversations, a hard workout, podcasts, etc.  My girlfriend introduced me to the TED talk from Adam Grant so I fell down that rabbit hole for a bit.  Held well on sitting with the afternoon blahs instead of eating through them.  BTW, the Adam Grant talk kind of sums up my afternoon issues.  Worth a 15 minute listen (on high speed).

I tried to get a nail appointment this week, but my technician is on a break.  Next week for the win.  Guess this week is REALLY low interaction.

I also read a bit in Glennon Doyle's Get Untamed, The Journal (the blah zoom call event book).  More reading and thinking than writing.  It takes parts from the book with followup questions.  Since I'm starting coaching today, I didn't need to flood the field with too much stuff.  I don't want it to go unlooked at though.  There are some good questions to ponder.

I found a vegan mushroom soup recipe on IG.  I'll make it today (after a quick run to the market).  Soup sounds nice for dinner.  Once again, I'm bored with dinners and need to make an effort to add variety.  This should work for a couple of nights.

I did a try-on in my closet yesterday.  I have 2 outfits that really are outside my box -- even my Future Self box, but I like them.  I played around with styling so I'll wear them (for the right moment -- they both need a MOMENT).  My rule -- buy it and you MUST be BRAVE enough to wear it.  It's not that I don't like either, it's that I feel self-conscious wearing them.  That's not a good reason.  (I should've taken pictures -- I will when I wear them!)  

One is a wild print (black and white cheetahs) wide legged jumper.  Needs a shirt under and a jacket over. The other is a short, puffy sleeved dress to wear with jean leggings and sneakers.  Both are fun and cute, but VERY trendy outfits.  I had to find a way to calm down the trendy with a little basic to make it feel wearable for me.  That said, I like both a lot.  Fun outfits to go out with girlfriends -- if that ever happens this winter.  I might need to make my own moment.

That's all the scoop from here.  Coaching recap tomorrow.  Have a good day.  Later gators.

Fun Bookclub

Bookclub was just the mix I like -- some talk about the book which led to social issue discussions, fun personal stories from the ladies and some personal sharing (hard kind).  It felt like a connection and that's what I want from the group.

Just 4 of us (until the very end when another person joined).  Easy to talk with zoom instead of Facebook rooms.  Less book questions and more personal discussions -- serious and thoughtful, not "how's the weather" kind of talk.  

I hope this direction continues.  I think meeting in-person helped me a lot to feel like part of the group.  Also, the group size is smaller month-to-month since lives got busier again.  That lends to a deeper conversation too.

Hubby left for NYC for 2 nights -- home for one and then off for a week long golf trip.  As I mentioned, I'm glad for this time ahead of the business of December.  I'm also glad my first coaching call tomorrow is completely private too.  I like to have quiet time ahead of the calls and that isn't guaranteed when he's home.  I'll also want time after the call to sit with what we discuss.  

I made this for hubby last night to trial it for holiday options.  I think I'd use less butter, but it's a good option -- even for serving with a salad for lunch.  Couldn't be easier.  I tried a piece and it was surprisingly tasty.   

Today is a self-care, self-exploration day ahead of the coaching call.  Listening to some stuff, filling out the questions.  Quiet thinking.  No chores set for today.  Actually, only thing on my to-do list for a few days is making the bacon for Christmas (ahead of trash day on Wednesday).  I got everything else finished.  

That said, I need to be mindful.  Having ALL the time to myself AHEAD of feeling busy or feeling too social or feeling stressed, makes me crave a sofa slug day, eating too many sweets, wine at night -- buffering BEFORE -- head in the sand style.  Nope and nope and nope.  I need to practice other ways to fill my cup that actually fill my cup (not leave me feeling like crap for the next few days).  Funny how hard this can feel -- PRACTICE is how to change it.  I'll report back tomorrow.

Let's start this transition week well.  End November on a high note and a welcome December feeling good.  Stay well.  Later gators.

All Finished

All finished decorating AND all finished with my weekend chore list.  I decided to speed up yesterday and get it all done.  Christmas-lite and I like it this year.  It looks festive, but was much easier.  

I love the tree.  It's so much nicer than the ones we had (both bit-the-dust the same year -- lights out, leaning, dropping needles).  The white and multicolored lights look really nice on the back porch.  I'm inspired to do the front next year.

Now for each week planning for food prep in December for the trips to Asheville (girlfriend trip and Christmas).  I need to make the cookies on the early side and that's tricky for me.  Wish I felt confident I wouldn't dive face first into frozen cookies (I love them frozen), but I know me and Christmas cookies.  If I eat too many or too regularly, my energy will be tanked.  Can't afford that this December.  I want to feel the best I can and enjoy all-the-things.  I'll plan them for as late as I can.  This half week of December is MAKE THE BACON.  Freeze ahead and it's the biggest time/mess saver.

Bookclub this afternoon (I say to remind myself).  It's a zoom call and that works so much better now.  Plus, I'm getting to know some of the ladies in-person and that makes it more connected too.

Chose The Gunkle (Steven Rowley) for my next read.  Sarcastic humor with a difficult storyline (mother died and father in rehab).  A couple chapters in and I've already laughed out loud a few times.

I read the coaching questions (printed them to fill out tomorrow).  Thoughtful questions.  I'm ALL IN for ALL THE THINGS during this time.  I'm super curious to explore everything and see if it makes a difference in my life.  Maybe Christmas cookie coaching lol (!!)

I finished burning the new candle I love.  Word of warning -- it burns completely and at the very end it cracked the glass.  I heard it crack -- kind of freaky.  Guess that's why most candles leave a wax layer.  Still, great scent range on this candle -- you know you're burning it.  I have 2 more to use this season.

This week ahead is one of the few times I have to myself in December -- eek.  Lots and lots of time together coming up so I'll take complete advantage of this week.  NOTHING social on my calendar and time to plan for 2022 and reflect 2021.  Good stuff.

Have a great Sunday.  Stay well -- getting yucky out there again.  Later gators.