Sunday Update

Today I'm taking the day for catching myself up on a few little things hanging out there.

(1)  Watch a spring garden video from the local gardener's club.  My girlfriend belongs and she sent it to me to help me start my little bitty garden.  I need to make the time to watch it.  Spring planting is around the corner.

(2)  Finish the pendulum class (rest on replay).  I stayed for 90 minutes, but then my son came over with the dogs.  It was time to sag out anyway -- information was moving way too slowly, but it was a fun class.

(3)  Finalize cookie order for the wedding welcome night.

(4)  Finish watching Bridgerton.  I have 1-1/2 episodes left.

(5)  Make progress to finish both current books this week.  They're clogging the works.

(6)  Prep for bookclub this afternoon.

It's a bold list, but I'm giving it a go.  Too many things piling up and that keeps my mind buzzing in a stressful way.

I'm taking a full break from coffee this week.  EEEEEKK (!!)  It's going to be a challenge, but I'm stopping because it doesn't taste as good lately.  I've been drinking way more than normal because I switched back to full decaf and it's been cold and rainy these last few weeks.  Every once in awhile I need to stop to reset my taste buds.  That usually happens on a vacation, but we know that didn't happen this year.  A week is probably longer than I need, but I set the commitment.  

Pollen has started in GA and it's set to come in force soon.  Lots of nose blowing in the morning and swollen eyes all day.  Fortunately, it doesn't last long.

That's my Sunday update.  Off to houseclean my to-do list.  Stay well.  Later gators.

Black-N-White Cookies

Another done and dusted off my 21 for 2021 list.  I made black-n-white cookies.  Hubby says they taste exactly right, but I don't think they're as cake-like as they should be.  Also, as you can tell, I wasn't very particular with the icing decorating.  It's a little off -- 55% to 45% lol.

I framed (Framebridge) a recipe from my grandmother's mother.  I'm bringing it to the Asheville house.  I'm super happy with the frame.

We're now closing on the house on March 9 -- WHAT?!?!?  This entire process from first idea to owning the house is lightening fast.  I'm trying to slow down and not panic that I have nothing for the house yet.  March is turning out to be a HUGE month for me.  I'm also trying not to panic about the sheer volume of stuff I'm ordering.  When you have nothing for kitchen or bathrooms or bedding -- it's a small fortune.  We budgeted it all, but it seems massive when you clump everything together.  

Enjoy the process.  I promised myself, but it's harder than it looks -- especially when we're still working on wedding things.  Exciting month and it will all get done, but I need to be intentional about enjoying it.

I leave with this quote -- sums up now just right.  Have a great Saturday.  Stay well. 

Old "Normal" Week

If I closed my eyes, I could believe this week was (almost) like a week before the pandemic began.  Two days trips to Asheville where we TALKED to people (yes, masks and precautions, but still) and we walked about in a town (everyone masked).

Chatted with my next-door neighbor shouting across our lawns -- this was one of the few times we've seen them in a year.  Walk with a friend (also masked, but in-person).  Grocery store TWICE this week (gasp).

Two outdoor runs.  Lots of long walks.  Busy with house and wedding prep.

And I'm beat to the bone.  Totally out of practice on how to live this life, but it feels so dang GOOD.  The pandemic either made you mountains more busy (kids home, juggling home workspace, etc) or it made you lonely and bored.  I fell in the latter group.  I think a little relief is on the horizon for both groups this year.  

Maybe this was just this week and a blast of spring weather ... but the taste of what's to come is nice.

In other updates ...

Wedding is back to under 30 people.  Yea.  Safety wins!

Hair practice MUST happen next week because I'm getting a little panicked that I can pull it off using tools and sprays.

Home inspection was fine.  Lots to fix, but we're all set.  Nothing big, but 20 small important things.  Waiting on a closing date now.

Making black-n-white cookies this weekend.  It's on my 21 for 2021 list.  

Pendulum zoom workshop this weekend that my former life coach is hosting.  I like fun and quirky things.  Sunday is bookclub and I need to remember the book -- reading it seems so long ago.

Speaking of books.  STILL reading the current ones (a political book and Migrations).  Neither is drawing me in and since I've been tired, not much reading happening.  I think they're both worthy reads, so I need to make some time to get back to them next week.

Here are some interior and garden pictures of the Asheville house.  We are buying some of the furniture to as a stop-gap until we can figure things out.  New furniture is so backordered right now, we were concerned it would be a long time before we had things to sit on.  Spring is just about here and we want to enjoy the house right away.  A year of being cooped up is long enough.

Happy Friday.  Stay well.  Later gators.

The House

Here's some scoop on our vacation home.  

It's 3 bedroom (loosely) -- 2 on the top floor and one, technically in the basement; however, it's too small.  We're going to use the carriage house as a 3rd bedroom.  It has climate control and is weather-proofed, but no bathroom.  A few steps to the house and a bathroom.  Three full baths -- one on each level.  Two bathrooms are clawfoot tubs -- love the look, we'll see how showering feels :)

The house turns 100 next year.  It was fully renovated 2 years ago with lots of the original charm.  Four fireplaces, original windows in some of the house, original woodwork in some of the house, original stone, etc.  It's a registered historical home so changes are approved by the Historical Society.  

It's in a wooded neighborhood with a number of other historical homes.  1.25 mile walk and you are in the heart of Asheville.  7 minute walk to ice cream.  8 minute walk to coffee.  10 minutes to restaurants and 15 minutes to 3 supermarkets (TJs, Whole Foods and HT).  A little over a mile to The Grove Park Inn.

Neighbors are an eclectic bunch -- lots of families and that's great.  Most of our street are medical professionals -- that's a nice thing in a pandemic.  All the medical peeps are vaccinated -- also a perk.  

Asheville is a MASK WEARING town.  During tourist season, you get out-of-towners not wearing masks, but local people are compliant.  We didn't see one non-mask wearing person.  

Now for the fun.  Here are some pictures.  I don't have many interior pictures yet -- stay tuned for those once we move in.  BTW -- yesterday was awesome, exhausting in the best way.

Stay well.  Later gators.

Asheville Again

This trip should be loads easier on my back.  No dogs to contend with and herd into the backseat every 10 minutes.  They took turns on my lap (which isn't the safest for them).  That took a big toll on my comfort.  We have other plans for their next ride up.

Youngest is coming over to watch the dogs for us.  We haven't seen him for about 6 weeks -- that's what happens when you have a new love :)  

Duke and I ran outside yesterday.  My legs are a little sore, but I'm doing a Peloton ride this morning.  Bike and running compliment each other well enough that I shouldn't have a problem.

Food is packed.  Bathroom safety is planned.  We're all set and super excited to go back and really explore the house.  We aren't concerned with the home inspection.  Everything has been newly renovated in the last 2 years.  Can't imagine there will be anything major.  

I'll take pictures and share this week.

Have a happy day and stay well.  Later gators.

Calendar

It's strange to have LIFE on my calendar.  

Wedding coming up (even though it's nothing like it was imagined).  It's still a SOMETHING on my calendar filling up with things to plan and things to do (like practice my updo!!).

Vacation home adventure.  Lots of planning and dreaming of fun days ahead.  Lots to do to get it set up (back to never-ending online shopping).  

Warm weather on the horizon.  Starting to get sneak peaks of spring (hello, Yellow Pollen).  Thoughts of picnics, outside runs, family hikes.  A few little outdoor fun things on the calendar.  Gibbs Gardens set to open for their daffodil explosion.  Talk of finally meeting our youngest's girlfriend (outside, masks, socially distant, etc), but STILL (!!)

I need to get my "social" chomps dusted off.  AND, I need to remember what I learned this year.  Slow down.  What IS important to me.  Boundaries.  What I allow on my island (thanks, Glennon Doyle).  How I show up.  What GIVES me energy.  What DRAINS my energy.  What feels GOOD and what doesn't.  Problem solving (advanced class LOL).  

My focus on life as we move forward ... for myself, for my relationships ... laughter, curiosity and kindness.  If I can find those things and be those things, life is better for me.

As I imagine coming out of the pandemic, I want to imagine things different than the before times.  This takes intention.  Even a year later, it's easy to go back to old routines, old patterns.  Intention takes me to different places and I'm well ready for different.  

I'll leave with a picture from our vacation home.  The owner sent us a sunset picture -- oh, it's so pretty :)

Stay well.  Later gators.

Huge News

Good lord, we bought a house.  

We verbally agreed to an offer after we got home on Saturday and an hour later there was another offer.  We super duper feel like we had a little help from the house-buying gods.

Contract is signed.  Home inspection is Wednesday.  Closing is either mid-March or beginning of April depending on getting the closing attorney's availability and our blackout dates from the wedding.

I'll take a bunch of pictures on Wednesday and do a post all about the house.  It's has a story and it's been a feel-good experience all around.

In other news ... wedding drama.  As though there wasn't enough stress for everyone, now there's a bit of drama.  My DIL's mother wants 12 of her siblings (large family) to be invited.  Most of them have had COVID because they don't take the precautions seriously.  Even though most had it, it's been longer than 3 months and who knows if they can re-infect, etc.  It's an uncomfortable position.  Kids are not comfortable with it, but feel pressured.  We are NOT inviting them to the Welcome Event on Saturday -- no way.  We'll keep our distance at the wedding (which will be relatively easy) and her mom will be tasked to keep them masked and socially distant.  They also talked about requiring a negative test right before driving down.

It's especially dramatic because it's so last minute.  (And kind of convenient that her mom will be vaccinated before the wedding because she works in a school.)  This leaves us with ZERO guests at the wedding and her parents with almost 20 (bridesmaids from the family).  Hubby and I will be socially distant wall flowers -- dang, this sucks.  The wedding is about the kids, but still, it's frustrating and feels lonely.  

And, we are the people to take everything home.  Yard games, leftover bar alcohol, decorations, etc.  It suppose to be taken home the same night but they will ask for an extension to the next morning.  Can you imagine.  We stand alone all night and then after everyone has taken the shuttles to the hotel, we load the car.  This is reminiscent of their college graduation where we sat second fiddle to everything.  Monday we get their dogs for the week too.  Feels a little like hired help all of a sudden.

I'll get over it and it's not a done deal.  It feels selfish on the part of her mom.  She's super nice, but this isn't the first time we've seen this kind of thing and probably won't be the last.  Our focus is the kids and we'll help them in whatever way we can.  We'll find our own way to have fun and we absolutely will love to watch them enjoy their special day.

As for today -- RAIN.  I'm going to try and clean most of the house today.  Wish my back luck :)

Stay well.  Later gators.

Road Tripping

Asheville this morning.  FIRST road trip since the pandemic started.  Only "worry" is bathrooms.  I plan to be relatively dehydrated all day for fewer bathroom needs (!!)  Today feels exciting and a little scary.  Guess that's what adventure feels like -- I swear it's been so long that I'm out of practice for existing in the outside world.

I packed lunch and dinner.  Fancy for a road trip, but I wanted to make the new recipes while everything was fresh.  Lunch is chilean sea bass with a citrus and olive salsa and green beans with a walnut and cilantro pesto.  Dinner is the sea bass again with a spinach, blueberry and feta salad.  I didn't want to add eating to the list of safety concerns.  

The live Peloton ride isn't my thing.  The instructor is early to class and chats before the ride starts -- that was fun.  I didn't like that the reminder parameters on the screen aren't active for live rides.  Makes sense -- they backfill the ranges after the live ride.  I like the reminder and the feedback that I'm in range.  It was also a bother to time the start exactly -- too much effort when I like the replays better.  I can see why it's good for certain styles of riding though.  I might do a live ride here and there if I need a change up, but probably not :)

This was a PRODUCTIVE week and I needed a little boost of forward direction.  Hour meditation, stopped zen sleeping melts, live Peloton ride and a bunch of new recipes.  Start building my "doing" endurance again.

Fingers crossed for today.  It's the biggest day I've had in a year.  Dang, I'm nervous -- some good nerves, some scared nerves.  

Stay well.  Later gators.

Fun Twist and Turn

I mentioned (I think) that hubby and I are looking for a second home in Asheville, NC.  He's wanted a "vacation" home for years and I said 'no' because there wasn't a location that interested us both that fit a HUGE list of criteria.  Easily drivable, not on a lake, not at the ocean, something different than we have now, fun destination, sleep our kids comfortably, dog friendly, etc.

We landed on Asheville -- love it each time we visit.  We have a trip planned in June to do some scouting with eyes out for vacation living.

Of course, we found the "perfect" house.  Tomorrow we're heading up for a day trip to see it.  Not sure if it will actually be The One, but a day trip will be fun.  It checks every box on paper except TIMING -- we thought fall of 2021 or 2022.  Of course, pictures tell a different story so who knows.  Dogs are coming with us.

This feels fun, a little wild (for us) and the start of an adventure.  I want a little more adventure in my life.

In other news, I made eggplant soup from the new Mediterranean cookbook.  Wow.  Delicious.  It's another partially blended soup.  Dark roasted eggplant, raisins, lemon, cilantro and some interesting spices.  Soup base with veggies (onion and tomato).  Top with roasted almond slivers.  

Today is sea bass with a citrus salad -- mix of oranges and grapefruit.

Today is also my first LIVE Peloton ride.  I'm curious if that offers anything more interesting than a replay ride.  I know people like to "ride the leaderboard" and ride with groups, but since I don't do either right now, I'm not sure live makes any difference.  I qualified for the free Century shirt -- 100 rides.  I need to order it today.  

The rest of today is getting ready for the road trip tomorrow.  Food prep, dog prep, car prep, etc.  Fingers crossed for a fun day.

Stay well.  Later gators.

Hump Day Updates

Slept beautifully again last night.  STILL could be monthly tired at work, but I hope it means no adjustment to stopping the zen sleeping melts.

Yesterday felt FULL -- full enough to bump a few things to today (cookies and dress).  I got all my stuff checked off.  Pictures ordered, napkins ordered, errands, etc.

Now some FUN STUFF (!!)

The new cookbook I ordered is exactly what I was looking for -- I have 4 recipes on the plan for next week.  Two for me and 2 for a family dinner on Sunday.  Stay tuned.  Also, a few of the IG accounts I follow added some interesting plant based recipes recently.  Looks like my cooking is back in business.

I tried a different brand of tea bags this month (Pukka) and I like them a lot -- organic, herbal.  The supermarket is hit or miss with carrying them though.  Amazon to the rescue.  I bought a sampler box -- they have a few choices and also got an Advent Calendar of teas.  A little late (or early) for Christmas, but it's 24 flavors.  Every night I'm trying a new one.  I love it.

Hubby's tie came for the wedding.  The Tie Bar.  If you ever need something specific in ties, this is the place to order.  Pairing with a white shirt and blue suit.  Color picked by our DIL so the men's ties coordinate.

I started a non-fiction book, but I'm going to add a fiction to the mix too.  I think this will be a slow, chapter-at-a-time read.  

My former life coach is offering a workshop on pendulums and I signed up.  It's a fun thing, like tarot cards.  Tapping into intuition and energy, etc.  I like learning about these kind of things.  The class is at the end of February so I'll share more soon.

I'm also signed up for a Supreme Court Masterclass by Sharon McMahon.  She's a history teacher turned adult educator on IG.  She has a big following teaching non-partisan government facts.  This is a class on 5 Supreme Court cases in the last 20 years.  It was $10 so I thought, why not.  She does classes every month.  The only "problem" is I can't actually find the date (only that it's for February).  It's offered live and replay so I'm not too worried.  I planned to watch on replay anyway.

Learning, being curious -- big driver of happiness.  Still thinking outside-the-box until in-person can happen again.  

Stay warm.  Stay well.  Later gators.

Being Productive

Relatively speaking -- and that's all I need, BTW, a little bit of something.  I don't need to set the world on fire, just do something that makes me quietly proud.

Done and dusted on TWO of my 21 for 2021 list.  Can you guess?  Hour long meditation AND stopped the zen sleeping melts.

The hour meditation felt long about halfway through and then I got back into the "zone."  I don't think I'll do THAT long anytime soon, but the 30 minute mark is a good stretch meditation time.

How do I stop the habit of using zen melts to sleep?  STOP BUYING THEM.  Well, duh.  That was easy. I finished the last of them and didn't buy anymore.  I slept fine last night (of course, I was tired from the night before and my monthly, but still).  It's not a heavy sleep supplement but I took it too regularly for my liking.  It's also way easier to fall asleep and stay asleep since switching to decaf again.  It was probably a circle habit with caffeine and zen melts.

Next up on the list ... not sure.  I have my eyes on 5 mile run, but that will take a bit of a buildup to not get injured.  Maybe one of the cooking "goals" like using up the yeast I bought during the craze in 2020.   I also want to start the goal of 21 hours "studying" Spanish.  I have a workbook that's been sitting on my desk for a couple of months.

Not on my official list, but I want to do a LIVE Peloton class to see if it feels different.  Today my favorite instructor has a live morning class and I switched my workout schedule to be able to ride.  Last night I got a call from Monti's groomer confirming his appointment TODAY.  I had it on the calendar for Friday.  Dang.  Mixup and I can't ride the live class.  Turns out, my second favorite instructor has a live class on Friday morning.  Problem solved.  

I finished The Four Winds (Kristin Hannah).  I'm a READING MACHINE lol (!!)  It was good -- she has a way of building characters that pulls you into the story.  I think a non-fiction next.  Those tend to stack up on my shelf and are usually slower reading.

When I clean the house, specifically mop the floors, I have a problem stepping back into my damp mopped area with my shoes.  I used to wear socks, but with the heel problem, no barefoot (or no walking without support).  I randomly saw these and they seem perfect.  Fun, cheap, but a little slick to walk.  I'll try them next week.  Pack of 6 pairs for $10 -- reusable and washable.

I'm on an Anthropologie kick lately.  I ordered a purse for spring (and for the rehearsal) and I LOVE it.  It's so cute.  I probably won't use the shoulder strap often (but it's a nice length and thickness) -- looks cuter without it on.  The hand handles are so comfortable to carry.  There's a zip inner bag that sits inside the bigger (see-through) bag. 

As far as productive for today ... I have a few things to get off my plate for the rehearsal.  Ordering picture standup cutouts and specialized cocktail napkins, figuring out cookie ideas and calling about my dress to see if I can restock it.  Monti has grooming and that's an out-of-the-house times 2 so I'll run a couple of errands (get gas, mail an Amazon return).  Add in reading and/or a Netflix movie and it should be a good day.  COLD here in GA and that makes for a snuggly evening with the pups.

That's all from here.  Hope you have a happy day and stay well.

Surprisingly Good Sunday

Usually transition days are dumpy days, but yesterday was surprisingly good.

I had a good Peloton ride with a new cool down that's an instant favorite.  Hard workouts elevate my mood like nothing else.  I did a longer meditation too.  That set me up for HAPPY all day.

My girlfriend and I ended up walking which felt great too.  It was chilly and blustery -- just the kind of walk that feels good to move to stay warm.  We chatted about a lot of feel good topics and I finished feeling filled with friendship (corny, but true).

She loaned me The Four Winds (Kristin Hannah) and I started it last night.  It's going to be a good one.

I watched (sort of between dog stuff and text messages) ... the Brittany Spears documentary on Hulu.  It was eye-opening how many people treated her poorly for so many ridiculous reasons.  Not surprised she had a breakdown or two.  Who knows what her current situation is, but it seems like certain things should change.

I'm feeling pretty crappy from my monthly.  I was awake at 11 o'clock and didn't go back to sleep until after 1 o'clock.  Not the best night, but I have NOTHING today so I guess it doesn't matter.  Still hurting this morning.  I wanted an outside run, but the weather has other thoughts.  Rainy, windy all day.  Tomorrow is a high in the 30s so my toes say nope for tomorrow.  Might do some swapping so I can run outside on Wednesday (looks like the only morning warm enough this week).  

I have some goodies to chat about, but as usual, I didn't take pictures.  The lighting is extra bad without outside light, so stay tuned.

I need to fill my week in some way to be productive.  Empty days feel nice on paper, but the reality is I get bored and start snacking by late afternoon if I have NOTHING all day.  Given the workout situation, I think I'm going to rework my schedule to give me some better options.  I'll see what I can figure out.

Let's make this week a happy one -- stay well.  Later gators.

Valentine's Day

I'll start with a little **TMI ALERT** ... monthly came 10 days EARLY.  Surprise, but that explains so many hormone issues (cravings, sweats, bloat, headache).  All I wish is NO MONTHLY for the wedding ... pretty, pretty please.  **TMI OVER **

Palm Springs was a little comedy with a little heart.  It was worth a free watch.  We had a nice date night last night.

I finished In An Instant (Suzanne Redfearn) and it was good.  Super fast read, kept you curious the entire time AND the author's note at the end about why she wrote the story was interesting too (no spoilers).  This makes FOUR books read this week (I'll finish Share Your Stuff this morning).  Wow -- I'm back to fighting shape.  Two were short and sweet, but still -- that's a lot for me.  

A walk with my girlfriend for today has been on and off a dozen times because of the changing weather forecast.  Woke up this morning to back to a chance of rain and she hates rain.  We'll see if it happens.  My guess is nope.  Tomorrow is another full rain day so not a lot of outside recently. 

This week should be a cleaning week, but I'm bumping it to next week when hubby is home to help (b/c of my back).  I'm going to do a little hair practice for the wedding.  Fingers crossed.  I'd also like to do the HOUR MEDITATION from the 21 for 2021 list.  That got bumped and I haven't done one thing on the list yet.  That seems like the most doable right now.  The Mediterranean cookbook came and it looks like what I was looking for in new recipes.  Veggie forward, with a little cheese sometimes.  I'm picking a couple of recipes to try after the next grocery store run.  

Looks like a fun, easy, low stress, low hormone week -- can it be?!?  I've been running high on stress levels for too long and a break would be welcome.  

We booked our dog trip to Asheville, NC late June.  It's refundable.  I have every single finger crossed we can take this trip.  Our plans are outdoor stuff with our dogs so we should be okay.

Happy Valentine's Day.  Candy hearts love to everyone.  Stay well.  Later gators.

Rainy Saturday Updates

Good morning.  Another rainy morning in a stretch of several.  Temps are warm and muggy, but the rain means STILL inside.

I finished the extremely quick read for Jen Hatmaker's bookclub.  It's the kind of book you can easily finish in one sitting.  Red at the Bone (Jacqueline Woodson).  It's an impeccable story.  Makes you think about family connections, life choices and how they impact those around you.  Beautiful mix of happy and sad -- like life.  Loved it.

I started In an Instant (Suzanne Redfearn) and it's going to be another quick read.  First person and already pulling me to find out more.  

I have very little else to chat about.  Hubby and I did some daydream planning on places we might want to retire to or possibly have a second home.  Asheville, NC was our daydream last night.  We're planning a trip with our dogs for late summer.  I feel reasonably confident we can enjoy outdoor Asheville by then (we'll book if there's a cancelation option).  This feels exciting -- going on a trip?!?!?  Wow.  I can't wait.

Tonight is date night and our plans are to watch Palm Springs on Hulu.  Groundhog Day with a twist.  It's recommended by the PopCast and it gets good reviews.  Silly and easy watching.  If we can't manage Hulu on our setup, plan B is more serious.  One Night in Miami or Herself.  I want to see both, but we thought a funny movie sounded good this rainy weekend.

Hubby leaves for VA on Sunday so it's a solo Valentine's Day for me (not that we do anything anyway).  As usual, a few nights to myself will feel good, but I'll miss him too.  It's set up to be a very "me" few days -- that's a good balance after having him home for a couple of weeks.

I debated making Valentine's Day shortbread cookies, but we don't need them. Boo.  I WANT them, but I've been loose with eating and the wedding is around the corner.  Flour, butter and sugar are not my best feel-good choices.  

This is all the random update today.  A bit extra boring slice of nothing-to-do-in-a-pandemic addition of my life.  Stay well.  Be happy.  Hang on.  Later gators.

Books -- I Have a Problem

I can't stop buying books.  Good news is I'm on a reading streak.  I finished The House in the Gerulean Sea (TJ Klune) -- it was sweet and silly and heartwarming.  Perfect for a rainy day.

I started the bookclub book which is not a secret title, but the book is in my bedroom and for the life of me I can never remember the title.  

I listened to a podcast and got suckered moved to buy a book, When Things Fall Apart (Pema Chodron) and it was one of the buy 3 for price of 2 books.  So ... welcome these 2 books to the family.

Anxious People, A Novel (Fredrik Backman)

The Complete Mediterranean Cookbook (America's Test Kitchen)

I've read a book by Backman and enjoyed it.  I'm STILL hunting for good veggie forward recipes.  You could only choose from selected books, but there were good titles.  A lot I had read so I had to look through the entire list. 

I also got a free prime read for kindle -- In an Instant (Suzanne Redfearn) -- a recommendation from RunsForCookies.  AND, I have another cheap kindle purchase, The Most Beautiful Thing (Arshay Cooper).  

I MUST stop buying books until I've read at least 5 titles -- can I do it?!?  Not sure lol.  Not a bad problem to have.  I'm super happy to be getting my reading stamina back.

Have a happy day and stay well.  

Blank Page Day

Yesterday was full.  Today is EMPTY.  

That's good and bad.  I love a "nothing" day, but I tend to get bored and start snacking by late afternoon.  Guess what my promise is today?  NO SNACKING.  

Even though it's a blank calendar page, I need to find some stuff to occupy myself.  Yesterday felt good to get outside.  Today is heavy rain all day so I'm limited.

Duke and I ran yesterday -- that dog can RUN (!!)  Three miles like it was nothing.  Multiple pee breaks, one poop break, 2 dog water breaks and we finished in 26 minutes.  Dang.  This park is a no-go on the weekends because of sports games (super crowded), but it's our new running route during the week.  I can't run when hubby is in VA because Monti has such separation anxiety without Duke so our next run is a week away.  We're back in the swing though.

Yesterday was a tiny slice of "normal."  Multiple things out of the house, change in scenery.  It felt good.  I can not wait until this is over. 

I hit a "pandemic wall" last summer -- super low, life in the crapper and that's when I started my GOOD LIST and started turning things around.  I've hit another wall, but it's different.  More excited, impatient anticipation.  GIVE ME THE VACCINE lol.  I'm starting a new list for this pandemic wall.  Things I can do safely as the weather warms up to get out of the house, see people, feel connected.  I think it's only a few weeks away in GA.  Hikes, picnics, outdoor happy hours, Gibbs Gardens, runs with Duke, horseback riding.

I'm also gearing up for a new round of recipes.  I enjoy eating plant based, but I'm bummed about the tofu intolerance.  This limits me a lot with vegan cooking.  I'm going to look for other options -- I can't be the only one.  I might venture out to Whole Foods next week.  They have a big selection of frozen items.  Last time (and the only pandemic time) I went, they were stocking shelves and I couldn't have a good look.

I got a hair flower from Etsy to wear to the rehearsal event.  It is orange and burnt red (color of the dress).  I love it.  Last things to arrive are 2 vintage bracelets -- one red, one orange.  

I also got a Valentine's Day shirt because why not.  Cheap tee from an online store. 

Have a happy day and stay well.  Later gators.

Books, Promises and Coffee

Here's the latest on my book reading.  I'm STILL bumping the bookclub book for a minute -- I have a feeling I'll be in a similar last minute boat again, although it's a much shorter read.

I finished Open (Andre Agassi) and I give it a thumbs up.  A podcast (I can't remember which one) talked about it being one of the more interesting autobiographies so I bought it -- I had no idea the trajectory of his life and it's a good story.  Hubby plans to read it at some point too.

Share Your Stuff.  I'll Go First. (Laura Tremaine).  Laura is a friend of a number of celebrities and this is making the podcast and Instagram circuit.  It's a book of 10 questions to get to know yourself and your friends.  It's good-ish -- I'm only through the intro and the first question.  I'm on this quest for connection -- how could I resist checking it out.

The House in the Gerulean Sea (TJ Klune).  Total magic fantasy with a heart and social messages.  Recommended by Jaime Golden who hasn't steered me wrong with a book.  I started it last night instead of the heavier bookclub book.  I want something fun.  P.S.  Jaime also recommenced the Share Your Stuff book, so I have hopes of enjoying it (!!)

I need to get into a mental and emotional groove again so I visited my feel-good list.  One BIG feel-good is keeping a daily promise to myself.  The whole is more than the sum of the parts.  Yesterday's promise -- no snacking.  Today's promise -- take Duke for an outdoor run.  I hit a number of things on the list yesterday -- sunshine walk, reading (vs TV), full meditation, HARD workout, COOKING meals (instead of snacking), connecting with positive people.  It felt better.  Now, rinse and repeat.

I have a full morning.  I'm giving an insulin shot to my neighbor's cat (she's having GI surgery), taking Duke to the park for a run, picking up Lysol from a foster friend (she was nice enough to buy it for me since I got her TP back in the shortage) and picking up my dresses for the wedding weekend.  For a "pandemic" day, it's FULL.  That's also a good thing for feeling good -- being productive.

On the note of snacking, I had a LOT of corn products this week.  I mentioned that is doesn't always agree with my stomach, well, turns out it activates my rosacea too.  Dang.  The list is growing.  The older I get, the less my body is tolerating certain foods.  Goodbye, popcorn.  

Update on the decaf coffee situation -- I'm fully switched to decaf with an occasional regular tea in the morning and my "anxiety" hum is gone.  So many times, how I feel is directly related to what I ingest.  It's crazy.

I've tried 3 DECAF brands and I like them all, but I have a ranking order.

Kicking Horse (mild and smooth -- cocoa notes)

No Fun Jo Decaf (stronger with fruity notes)

Volcanica House (bitter with strong fruit notes)

When you drink espresso black, you can taste and smell the subtle differences.  I think I'll keep the first 2 in rotation, but the 3rd is a little bitter for my everyday taste (or for more than one in a morning).  It's fun to smell them too.  TOTALLY different beans.  

That's all from here.  Hope you have a good and happy day.  It's our last morning without big rain for the week so I'm looking forward to getting outside.  Stay well.  Later gators.

Yesterday was a MONDAY

The day that I was set to feel better, felt yucky.

I visited my girlfriend's new store -- NO MASKS.  Ugh.  I waited until the store was empty, grabbed a few things, stood way back from the counter and left.  I won't go back until COVID is over.  WTF?!?  Seriously??  The store is ADORABLE and they've done such a great job with everything.  Why no masks?  I really don't understand what people are thinking.  This left me all undone -- disappointed in them, disappointed that I can't shop there yet.

I texted my other girlfriend about the walk and she forgot.  Not able to do it yesterday which I was pleased about, but then bummed I didn't get friend time.  We ended up chatting on the phone for a quick call and made walking plans for Sunday.

I'm in a mood about PEOPLE right now.  Everyone feels prickly.  

Today SHOULD be a better day.  Cardio workout (always makes me feel better), dogs for a nature walk (sunny and in 60s today) and picking up my dresses from the dry cleaners (nice to have that checked off the list).

I did a get in a little productivity.  I changed my purse and wallet.  Both were a disgrace.  The tote bag was so old and I used it during the pandemic because I don't want to take a good bag with me.  It was time though.  I have a similar bag I used for work so I switched to that one.  The wallet was old (but awesome) and it was ripping with lots of worn spots.  Good excuse to clean out the contents too.  Felt good for a little spring cleanup.  

I changed up decor for the rehearsal event.  No balloons.  I couldn't find ones I liked and I felt like it was going to be a big bother to transport.  Who remembers balloons anyway?  Instead, I ordered a 6 foot cut out from the kids' engagement photos.  I'm going to order smaller cutouts for the tables.  Fun (!!)

I started looking for cookie ideas too.  Still mulling that over.  Go with all wedding theme like "love" and hearts and date.  Or go with things ABOUT the kids -- their dogs, beach volleyball.  I could do a mix too.  The rehearsal is a a golf party place -- seems "about" works better, but it's hard to come up with ones that are obviously THEM.  I'll keep thinking.

Here are my pups playing with their new toys -- the store is great if they'd only be safe.

Have a good day.  Stay well.  Later gators.

Cheese Hangover

Too. Much. Cheese.  

I feel like a slug and am puffy and bloated.  Good cheese choices last night LOL.  I also had a lot of corn stuff.  The kids make a street corn dip with corn chips -- super good and I ate a lot of it.  I made real popcorn for snacking during the game -- butter, salt, YUM.  Corn doesn't love me much either.

So this might be a BIG **TMI Alert** but you need to know if you need to know -- so you're welcome for this heads up.

I got influenced at Christmas for kind of a joke stocking stuffer gift.  It's called Sneak-A-Squeek.  They're herbal capsules you take a couple of hours before you might eat something that makes you gassy.  They last 8 - 12 hours and neutralize SMELL in your intestines.  They don't stop gas, but it'll have no odor. 

I knew there were a few culprits on the menu last night (corn is a big one) and I've been a bit active in that department lately. Perfect opportunity to try them (I bought for myself too).

THEY WORK (!!)  I can't believe it.  And they worked under big conditions -- big, silent conditions.  Need I say more??  Wow.  It wouldn't be something I'd want to take everyday, but on a big occasion, a girl's weekend sleepover, an evening party.  Especially when it's the kind that's even embarrassing in the bathroom because it's so potent.  I'm sold.

**TMI Over**

The Super Bowl was fun.  I stayed up until just before halftime when the kids left.  I heard the halftime show got mixed reviews (doesn't it always).  I loved the pregame performers (Amanda Gorman especially), but the National Anthem singing wasn't my favorite.  I thought it was one of the worst I've heard in a long time actually. 

Today is a reset day for diet and RELAXING.  I'm going to my friend's new dog boutique store that opened on Saturday.  I didn't go to her private opening party (not safe enough), but I will stop in a see the store, buy some stuff and check out the grooming facilities for my pups.

I'm also suppose to go and walk with my girlfriend and her baby granddaughter -- outside, with masks, etc.  Not sure if that's happening.  It's been weather postponed 3 times.  As I sit here this morning in my cheese coma, I wouldn't mind another postponement.

Last night was a good reminder that how I eat REALLY impacts how I feel.  Not worth doing on the regular.

New week -- let's find the good and make it the best it can be.  Stay well.  Later gators.

Super Bowl Sunday

I'm all set for the game.  

I made a scratch recipe for cheesecake brownies.  They are extra fudge brownies with a cheesecake top.  I'm not a fan (I made them GF).  Hubby and I tried them last night -- he loved them, me not at all.  The brownie recipe is complicated for a brownie.  Bloom cocoa, make a ganache, add brewed coffee and practically no flour.  It's almost like a flourless chocolate cake on the bottom.  Too rich for my taste.  I had cream cheese from Christmas to use up.

Today is easy -- make your own Naan pizzas.  I need to finish up some of the toppings, but nothing major. I saved some prep for today because the brownies were a lot of work (and cleanup mess).  My back said enough after cleaning the bathrooms earlier in the day.

I don't have much to say this morning.  A bad dream woke me up early so I got up.  I think I'll read -- I'm ready to be finished with the latest book.  Way, way too many backstories of EVERYONE he talks about.  Mention a neighbor and get their life history.  I'm interested to know the story, but the book should be half as long.  The House on Hidden Valley Road.

Short and sweet this morning.  Have a happy football day.  Stay well.  Later gators.

Wedding Luck

I'm a good streak with wedding purchases -- yea (!!)  Here's some scoop -- pictures aren't the best (as usual).

The rehearsal dress came and I LOVE it.  I took it to the dry cleaners to be pressed so here's the online picture.  It's a maxi dress in a faded deep red.  Super pretty color.  Not bridal, not at all like my dress for the wedding.  I'll take pictures when it comes back and I "style" it with accessories.  I got a belt to add some structure.

I ordered this vintage bag from Poshmark.  I didn't realize how the system works (i.e. I didn't "accept" the purchase and needed to be emailed -- oops).  It was $10 and cute as a button.  Some of the flowers on my black dress are orange.  This is perfect for the wedding.  The metal looks tarnished in the picture, but it is a shiny silver finish.  The fabric is silk.

The bracelet for the wedding came too.  It's just enough and goes well with the dress.  The picture doesn't do the sparkle justice.  It's made from vintage clip earrings.  It's really pretty on my wrist.  Another color in the dress is a pale blue.

The only thing left is two vintage bracelets for the rehearsal dress (Etsy). 

I'm super into vintage stuff lately.  I think it's so comforting to remember earlier times.  I love the idea that the item had an entire other "life" before it came to me -- somehow feels like a mysterious connection.  And it was one of my green priorities a couple of years back -- reuse, not new, not in a trash dump.  It adds a little bit of interest to things.  

Today is a bit of a boring day.  Cleaning bathrooms, making cheesecake brownies for tomorrow and that's about it.  Rain canceled the walk with my girlfriend.

We had a date night and watched Promising Young Woman.  It's dark, but it was good.  Hubby said it reminded him of You (Netflix).  I started the show Happy Valley and it's another good one.  The first episode was slow, but once it established the storyline and characters it took off running (I'm only on episode 3).  

Reading is going okay.  Choosing a book on mental illness probably wasn't the best choice right now (it's depressing to read), but it's interesting.  I want to plug through it so I can get onto other things -- including  the bookclub pick which I said I wasn't going to leave until the end of the month.

Have a happy Saturday.  Stay well.  Later gators.

Finally Friday

I don't have my picture game on point today, but so many good wedding things arrived yesterday.  Pictures soon.  Looks like I'm styled and ready for the wedding weekend festivities.  Now, hair practice in about a week (need my keratin to relax a little first).  What a relief :)

Little Blue is all set for transfer to our rescue and to a foster home.  Another HUGE relief (!!)

I bought cuticle cream from Olive and June because my cuticles are dry no matter what lotion I use -- one day later, they already are less cracked.  Need the right tools for the job.  My nails look pretty decent considering I do them myself.

That begs the question -- what will I return to doing once the pandemic is over?

Manicure -- probably rarely.

Pedicure -- a lot less and maybe rarely.  

Massage -- not regularly.

Cleaning crew -- probably not.

Restaurants -- yes, but not nearly as often.

Starbucks -- rarely.

Big group social gatherings -- rarely.

Grocery shopping -- YES, later in the day and more variety.

Small group social gatherings -- YES and I can't wait (!!)

Travel -- HUGE YES (!!)

It's interesting to think about.  I don't want my days on autopilot going from spending to spending to spending.  I want to keep a creative outlook for doing different things, spending time outside, new hobbies, important friendships.

That time is coming.  Slowly, but it's coming.  I think those of us who have stayed isolated in the pandemic are getting more stir-crazy the closer the relief gets -- it's exciting and it's frustrating.

This week was a long, stressful one.  My plans for next week are a mental re-group again.  Focusing on getting outside, focusing on reading, focusing on noticing the good stuff.  Slowing down, getting out of my head and finding the happy little things again.  Since I have nothing on the calendar, I get to control my own schedule and that feels good to me.

Trying to re-group this week didn't work.  Too much jumble, too much worry.  

That's all from here.  Picture post coming with all the wedding goodies.  I LOVE everything -- my lord, what a relief.  Have a happy day and stay well.  Later gators. 

Switch-A-Roo

I'm switching some of my week around.  I've been craving a break from the same routine -- I'm in some kind of slump.  Not even sure what kind.  The only thing I know is I don't want to COOK, CLEAN, GROCERY SHOP -- none of it.  If this were an "alone" week, I'd do none of it.

I want to do NOTHING.  But not in a depressed kind of way -- more in a "I need something different" kind of way.

I need to hang on for a few weeks.  Gibbs Gardens is opening in late February.  Spring is around the corner for GA and for that, I'm grateful.  I need to get out of the house into nature in some capacity of normal.  

I'm postponing grocery store until tomorrow and doing bare minimum cleaning until next week.  Letting myself have a little space of the same old thing.  Not sure this will even help.

The walk with my friend was postponed for nicer weather.  Bummer.

I'm having a moment where I feel like my time is not my own, yet I have nothing but time on my hands.  This week feels like a compromise to accommodate EVERYONE but me.  Not sure why this feeling is so strong, but it feels that way.  The thing is -- I don't know what to do about it.

I start to read and I get interrupted over and over (hubby, dogs, phone, doorbell).  I make myself a cup of tea and hubby asks to save some hot water for him.  I turn on the TV and hubby starts throwing a ball for the dogs down the hall.  I start meditation and hubby brings dogs in basement to play and it's loud and distracting.  I set a schedule for the week and it gets changed multiple times which means my things get messed up.  

Maybe this is hormones again??  Maybe some of this ... it's a good list.

I need to dig a little deeper.  I need to find space.  I'm feeling frustrated.  I'm feeling depleted. 

Switch up SOMETHING.  I just don't know what yet, but I know it will be me, myself and I.

Off to find some good and some happy stuff today.  Wish you the same.  Stay well.  Later gators.

A Couple More Fun Things

I was looking for vintage graphic t-shirt looks for a black pleated skirt and jean jacket I've never worn -- too much Pinterest scrolling.  Couldn't find what I was looking for, but found a t-shirt for working out.  Remember this??

The hair comb for the wedding came (Etsy).  It's so much more sparkly in-person and it's exactly what I wanted.  A little sparkle without looking like I'm in the bridal party.  It's nicely balanced so it sits in my hair well.  The only thing left is the rehearsal dress -- that comes next week.  Woo hoo (!!)  Of course, I need to figure out my hair and makeup, but all the elements will be ready to dress this old gal.  

Hair appointment today and I'll be chatting up some hair questions.  In a couple of weeks, I'm going to be practicing on the regular until I feel confident that it looks nice and it will hold all day.  Prepare for lots of pictures hahaha.

Did I mention the wedding is now 4 o'clock again?  They felt it fills the day better without rushing to get ready.  Makes sense.

I finished the young adult classic that I bought on a whim.  Jen Hatmaker bookclub asked about favorite childhood reads and so many people named this book -- so many that I got sidetracked (suckered lol) into reading it.  It was written in the 1950s and you can tell -- "son, woman are different, they cry."  "A classic about a boy and his dogs."  True.  But also a story about hunting -- his dogs are hunting hounds.  Not my cup of tea, but I finished it.  Where the Red Fern Grows (Wilson Rawls).  I can see why it's a classic and very forward for it's time, but the "adventure" was all about the hunting kill.  Onto something new ...

I need to realign my day again.  I've drifted back into the habit of rushing to get everything finished early -- then NOTHING all afternoon.  It doesn't make sense.  Pace it out, slow down.  This week has a number of chores and longer to-do lists and I'm racing through each day like it's a timed competition.  

This Friday we are doing a date night and watching Promising Young Woman on Prime.  It's getting tons of buzz and making the rounds on podcasts, etc.  A revenge thriller with lots to love.  It's expensive -- $19 for 48 hours of watching.  I told the kids and maybe they'll watch it Saturday.  Treating this like a night out at the movies.  We need a little fun.

Hope you find a happy bit in your day.  Stay well.  Later gators.

On a Lighter Note ...

I watched a video about placing hair combs.  I bought a vintage french hair comb and wanted to style it.  The hairstyle was super easy and the comb isn't too bad (it was $5).  It's fun to play with my hairstyles.

The dress I ordered for the rehearsal came -- ModCloth and I don't like it.  It looks nice from the back, but from the front it looks like I'm in "modesty" clothing or something.  The sleeves are large in a strange way.  It's going back and I'm struggling to find something for that night.  I have a dress ordered from Anthropologie and that's my last attempt.  If it doesn't work, I'm "shopping my closet" and wearing an oldie, but goodie.  I'm the only one who'll notice.  It's also complicated by unknown weather for end of March.  The Green Dress is too summery for that evening or I'd be all over that goal (!!)

I also did a BIG thing.  Ordered furniture for my office conversion and I went all out.  West Elm.  Two chairs upholstered in pink velvet -- yep, I went there.  Something totally DIFFERENT, totally girly.  The way my apartment would look if I were a single lady.  I'm TOTALLY having a midlife crisis LOL.  The chairs are different styles.  I got a vegan white ottoman, new swivel desk chair, desk and a sideboard.  Delivery for April is now AUGUST (!!)  Oh well, glad I got it started.  Here's the main chair -- anytime I see someone with velvet furniture, I think, oh ... I wish.  Got my wish.  It's worth the wait.

My Tela-Derm appointment went well.  RX on order from the online pharmacy they use -- in the mail already.  Glad to have that off the list without any in-person contact at all.

My hair appointment got moved to tomorrow.  She needs to help her dad who has dementia.  No big deal, but it does mess up my workouts a bit.  That means I need to ride today, instead of arms.  My legs are pooped from cardio this week.

I THINK the caffeine lowering is helping.  I don't feel anxious anymore.  I'm still very upset about Blue, but that's a different emotion.  I like the decaf beans and I ordered 2 other similar ones to test out.  The only reason I was drinking caffeinated was because I didn't have a decaf I liked -- should've problem solved that long ago.

This week is a house chore week and AGAIN, my back is wonky.  Funny how that coordinates -- probably subconsciously not wanting to do it.  I'm working my way through the easy stuff (sheets, plants, bills, dusting), but need to hit the heavy hitters later in the week (bathrooms, floors, kitchen).

It's also a prep for the Super Bowl week.  I decided on naan make-your-own pizzas.  I'll do lots of yummy toppings that hubby is helping prepare.  Kids are making a dip and I'm buying munchies and dessert from Trader Joe's.  No takeout for us still -- too unsafe here in GA.  I'm not using the air fryer on the big game day either because I don't want to be a short order cook.  I'll use GF tortillas for my pizzas.  

Hubby and I chatted about it yesterday.  I reiterated that I need a break from cooking for everyone -- always a different menu than what I can eat and he agreed.  Let's see how that goes.  Fingers crossed.  I need a break, not forever, just a moment to recharge.  A moment to focus on me instead.  Chickpeas won't kill them, but they won't even try anything.

Have a happy day and stay well.  Later gators.

Boundaries are HARD

This is a "mood" post so hang on to your hats LOL.

Caffeine is nosediving so I'm expecting to feel less anxiety as the week unfolds.  Only decaf coffee again (which has small amounts) and one caffeinated tea in the morning.  Somedays, a kombucha in the afternoon, but I'm switching to Kefir that's caffeine-free.

Blue is getting returned and that has me with all the horrible feels.  I turned that worry over to the universe (or I'm trying) and doing what I can while holding a FIRM BOUNDARY that I can't take him back right now.  I'm also taking a pause before I respond to an email from the adopter wanting absolution from her responsibility.  That's progress for me.  My paused response is to simply say that our rescue will find him a forever home.  Nothing more to discuss -- I won't reprimand her, but I won't "let her off the hook" either.  There was a lot more to her story and she gave up on him without trying anything of value.  It's her business, not mine, and I don't need to engage with her.

I didn't get to join bookclub because of the timing of everything yesterday.  It's not that it was such a horrible miss, but it was an example of not being heard when I said any day or any time other than Sunday afternoon.  I need a firmer BOUNDARY which is on the one Sunday a month that I have bookclub, NO COMPANY.  They "planned" for me to go to bookclub, but there was no way it could work with the timing.  I got run over because I didn't set a hard boundary.

Super Bowl.  Hubby was suppose to be in VA, but now is home.  I'm glad about that, but I don't want to host the game here.  Guess what?!?  We are doing the game here.  Ugh.  Whenever I don't HOLD a boundary it feels horrible and resentful.  I'm making the family do most of the food -- and I'm only staying up until halftime.  This boundary is holding.

Boundary setting and, more importantly, boundary holding is taking on a new importance again because hubby is leaving his job in May.  He'll be home while he looks for a local job.  Shared space + nothing for him to do = problems for me.  The thought of more work, more emotional work ... it feels overwhelming.  How many times do I need to stand up for myself because I'm otherwise unheard?  Sometimes it feels endless.

All the more reason to get my diet in feel good shape for FEELING GOOD.  GF is a must.  Low alcohol (still not drinking now).  Watch sugar.  Low caffeine.  Plant based focus.  All these things make me feel physically and emotionally the best I can and I need to be operating at the top of my game for what's ahead.

There is good to be found and I'll save that post for tomorrow. 

Here's for all of us ...  I know I could use a lot of these.