Chocolate (!!)

Up early for a big hike today -- 10 miler. I'm not sure how my neck and shoulder will hold out, so I'm a little apprehensive. It shouldn't be a hard hike though. The elevation gain is spread over 10 miles and the pace will be moderate, not fast. Bathrooms are an issue though and I have an hour drive this morning. I promised myself those wouldn't be reasons to not do a hike I'm interested in so it might be a go-in-the-woods day.

Yesterday was a nice day. Lots of fun with my aunt -- even though it poured rain the entire time. She brought us chocolate from Paris. On the way home I stopped at another Trader Joe's and found the Dubai chocolate. It's delicious. Needless to say, yesterday was some chocolate eating :)

Tastes like a fancier kind
Reeces with pistachio and
crunch.

Paris chocolate. Fancy
and amazing.

Dinner with friends was also nice and the rain FINALLY cleared for the day. We didn't walk because it was raining when we left, but happy for such a fast drive.

Today's hike has 4 creek crossings and you get wet -- bet it's extra high today with the non-stop rain.

I started this popular book and it's great so far. I'm late to the game reading it -- slipped under my radar.

That's all from here. Got to get moving and packing a hiking lunch -- one of my favorite things about longer hikes. There's something about eating a lunch in the woods that's delightful. Peeing in the woods is another story haha. 

Have a good Saturday. Later gators.

Friday Fun

Date day didn't work out completely. We had pouring rain and storms all day (I thought the rain was finished) so we took a literal raincheck. We planned to walk to the restaurant, eat outside -- not the same experience on a rainy day. There's no rush to try the new places and we had a nice morning together.

We ran errands and I came home and got into pjs and read this book. Fun, fast -- perfect for a rainy afternoon. Got this at an indie bookstore in NC on the way to Asheville.

Trader Joe's Patio Chips are back this summer after a factory fire canceled last year. These are a family favorite and you can't sleep on them. They come and go super quickly so I stocked up.

Afternoon with my aunt today and then immediately heading to friends' house with hubby for the rest of the afternoon and out to dinner. Big social day. Friday fun.

I'm in a bit of a downer mood this morning though. I think it's hormones because I woke up feeling this way and woke up to a hot flash. I expect a workout will help. 

Hope you have a good day. Later gators.

Date Day

Double workout yesterday -- run in morning, hike in evening. My shoulder is no worse for wear -- not feeling great, but improving. I'm going to keep the acupuncture and chiropractic appointment on Tuesday regardless of pain level. My neck is off and I'm getting quick bursts of virago occasionally -- he should be able to fix it.

Lunch with my casual friend was fine. She's nice, but we don't seem to flourish in a friendship or conversation. 

Today is a date day with hubby. Lots of errands together while we drop dogs at groomers and then home for a lunch date. We're trying a new local restaurant each week or so. 

I made the viral recipe for "lettuce." Have you seen it? Iceberg, lemon juice, vinegar, olive oil, salt, pepper. Mix in one bowl. It's surprisingly good and flavorful. Perfect as a base for protein mixed in or serve along side a steak.

Finished 2 Stephen King books and that completes my summer Stephen King book flight. I reread most of "The Stand" -- it was too depressing and I stopped about 3/4 of the way (it was 1200 pages).

Good, but too much King
ick in the story. If you know,
you know.

Best of the 3 -- really
enjoyed it. Clever story,
no ick.

I have a bunch of options for a next read. I'm happy to be finished with Stephen King. I don't expect to read him again anytime soon unless he writes more fantasy books. He was a favorite author growing up, but it's not holding up for me now.

Hope you have a good day. Later gators.

Coaching Update

I was able to salvage my mood by an outdoor run. The rain had a break and I took advantage -- it does wonders for a bad mood. It was overcast, cool, crisp morning and that doesn't get more perfect for a run. I super duper love my new running route. The other things and spaces for this house are a little wonky and I'm still trying to figure them out. The running route was perfect out of the gate -- no trial and error.

Hubby and I talked out the company staying a week and it went well. We both came to the table with no snark and that helped a lot. Glad to see us working together. 

Dressed for the day embracing color. Shirt is navy and added yellows, orange, and red glasses. Still a learning curve for dressing more creatively, but it's fun to play with it. I'm buying used clothes to add some interest. The yellow sweater was from the thrift store last week. I consider aqua blue my color of the year, but yellow is sneaking in for a close second. Probably not the best color for my skin, but I'm enjoying it. Trying to mix and match all things in an unexpected way. Didn't reach that level with this outfit, but I'm heading in the right direction.

Hike was rained out, but I have a similar one tonight. Same mountain, different trail head (equally as convenient), longer, and faster. I'm looking forward to it. First hike since the fainting and fall.

Lunch with a casual friend today at an okay restaurant. This is the friend that we sometimes have a good conversation and sometimes don't. It's a good opportunity to practice holding better conversations - like a little challenge. She asks a lot of questions about me but doesn't have a lot of conversation to offer from her life. She retired and hasn't found new interests yet so it feels one-sided, but in the way that isn't someone being too much like you'd normally expect with one-sided conversations. The challenge is to find things to talk about that she will join in the conversation too. Fingers crossed. Last couple of times have been good.

Coaching update. It was so good. I coached on Spanish and why I resist continuing and resist starting back, etc. She asked interesting questions and it landed that it was probably about food issues. What!?!? Exactly. The pattern, the mind talk, the desire, the work, etc all felt similar to food issues and yo-yo dieting that took me decades to figure out. It was mentally exhausting and I'm conflating the two things because it FEELS so similar because I was having such similar THOUGHTS about it. 

It's impossible. It'll never happen. I'll do okay for a bit, then not. I can't do this. --- you get the idea. 

I kept saying it felt exhausting to think about Spanish, but Spanish isn't exhausting so why such a strong reaction. The exhausting part was remembering decades of feelings from the battle with food thoughts and it felt like too much.

This isn't an instant fix, but when I feel dread about starting or worry about continuing, I can remind myself this isn't that. It IS already helping.

Lots of chatting this morning and I best get my day started. Hope you have a good day. Later gators.

Rain, Rain, and More Rain

Geez -- another FULL day of rain. Looks like a morning run and evening hike are out. This is a long rain pattern. More rain expected tomorrow morning too. 

This week has a bunch of hikes and a bunch of meals out. We'll see how many happen. I'm not super excited about the meals out. Restaurants picked by others and not my cup-of-tea -- just happened that they lined up this week. Lots of non-veggie foods await (think burger and fries kind of places). 

I have the coaching session this afternoon that I won this month. I purposely didn't lament on "problems" to figure out what I want coaching on and decided to decide today. Of course, now I have no idea what to talk to her about. I don't have a pressing issue and other things are things I'm working on and not sure need any more direction (right now). I'll think of something, of course. 

Still trying to figure out the decor in my office. I need to keep wall art to a minimum because the hallway is picture busy and the office doors are glass. I want to use the mid-century modern pictures I have, but the colors don't exactly work. I'm adding some mustard and gold to the room to see if I can make it work. I might also buy a neutral rug to take the red out of the room. All that will still be a lot less money than buying large artwork. 

Didn't hang pictures yet.
Trying them out first.

I'm in a bit of a mood this morning. Hubby wants his newly retired friend to come stay for an entire week in July. He's away later in the month with this same friend for 5 days. It feels like a lot to me. I'll have to modify my days significantly. They'll golf all day and then dinner so I'm on dog duty. Not a huge issue, but dog duty AND a house guest mean worst of both worlds. I'm a bit grumpy about it and concerned this is going to be a regular thing. 

I guess it's upsetting because my plans don't infringe on him (i.e. I don't have a friend stay for a week). This house isn't conducive or convenient to have someone stay this long. Things like parking in the driveway blocks my garage. Noise travels in my bedroom and I can hear people in kitchen or in basement (vents carry noise). My office has glass doors with zero privacy. If I could leave all week to go to Asheville, I would, but he needs me to watch the dogs. 

We haven't talked this through yet. He texted me last night. He's going to be grumpy when we talk this out too. Not bringing this to coaching because I know how to speak up and work this out. And I know how to process out all the feelings around it (annoyed, guilty, dread).

That's all from here -- my mood is building haha so I'll end it before a next rant begins. Have a good day. Later gators.

The Beauty is in the Walking

More rain today and humidity is oppressive. I think this front will pull it out because tomorrow is supposed to be in the 60s. 

I ran yesterday morning. It hurt a lot until the endorphins took away the pain. I wanted to see if it helped, hurt, or the same. I don't want to NOT do anything for weeks. Explored the town on a cool-down walk. Found this mosaic wall made by local artists, students, and parents. It's beautiful, but on a deserted street. I like exploring on foot. "Walk until the day becomes interesting."

Never made it to the grocery store, but we got a lot worked on in the house. Still hanging things. Picked out porch furniture. Watched the fountain of youth movie -- is that what it's called?!? It was okay at best, but it was a good, quiet night hanging out.

Babysitting got canceled today -- baby has a cold. 

Looks like a lot of house stuff today and that's okay. I need to figure out a workout and finally get to the grocery store too.

The week goes back to full strength starting tomorrow (fingers crossed). Today is a good day to get organized and ready.

Hope you have a happy holiday Monday. Later gators.

Update

I'm still having troubles. The big thing is my neck, shoulder, arm. Something like this happened a number of years ago. My neck and shoulder are out of alignment and causing a lot of radiating pain. It's hard to sit at a computer or sit and rock paint. I can't run outside or stand on the Peloton. Very positional -- always hurts, but especially doing certain movements.

I have an appointment to see my acupuncturist and chiropractor. First available is beginning of June which is a bummer. This is reminiscent of my back troubles -- constant, limiting pain.

I'm doing some things here and there. I walked to our town's market. It was nice, but typical of this area. Not as farmer or as local as you'd like -- I got some veggies and chai concentrate without sugar. Lots of items for sale, but nothing unusual. That said, it was an easy walk. It's at a park with seating and lots of kid friendly things.

Our grandson came over in the afternoon after his first hair cut -- he looks so grownup. We went to the park, played toys at the house, and colored at his craft table (mostly adults colored, he dumped the crayons hah). I use the brown paper packing from Amazon packages for coloring paper. 

Going to hang his artwork
over the little table.

We hung more pictures and Monti watched from his blanky. Sweet boy.

Another full rain day. We're hitting the sales to get porch furniture and the grocery store -- all out of food. 

That's all from here. Hope you're enjoying the long weekend. Later gators.

A Little Closer

I'm getting closer to being myself again. The problem area is my neck and upper back. It kept me awake a lot last night aching with no relief. I might need to go to the acupuncturist. It's worse this morning -- heading the wrong direction. My nose will take more time, but it's improving. I'm getting better at remembering it's broken (careful with my glasses and blowing my nose).

Yesterday was a pretty good day, considering.

I picked up TWO toddler table and chair sets. Long story, but a delayed response from the seller sort of left me on the hook for both. They were $20 and very different. The white one is hand painted with alphabet drawings -- 20 years old. I offered one to the kids. I love buying used.

I stopped at a thrift clothing store. It benefits a women's shelter where I used to volunteer. I got a pair of denim jean shorts and a yellow cardigan (year of color) -- both for $20. I'm working on an evolution of my summer dressing style. I don't have it quite right yet, but I'm trying a lot of things and combinations and, of course, color.

My birthday is coming up next month and that's when I change my yearly mantra (motto). Last few years I've switched it up about 3/4 the way through the year. Last year was "the beauty is in the walking" and I changed it to "how can I live this now."

It's meant to be a reminder of how I want to show up, make decisions, etc. Some older ones ... Choose the bigger life. Walk until the day becomes interesting. Little by little. 

I'm considering something with "pebbles or pebbling." It's a new phrase people use to say little moments of joy or connection or fun. Sending a funny meme to a friend is pebbling. I'm thinking of you and think you'd like this. 

This can relate to how I connect with others and also how I connect with myself. It's a start on this think-train. What do I want from this year? That's the question I'm pondering as I look for ideas and begin planning an intentional year. Coming up with the mantra helps develop a plan for the year, a direction to head. It's easy to get caught up in "life" and forget what I want from that life. This helps.

More on all this later. 

I don't have anything on the calendar today. I'm going to take my dog for a long walk on the belly leash so it's shouldn't bother my neck. Then more work on the to-do list. I actually got a lot finished yesterday. I keep pushing back some things because my neck is uncomfortable, but there's plenty left to do.

Hope you're having a good week. Later gators.

Not Grooving Yet

Well, I didn't quite get in the groove. I'm still hurting -- my shoulder and neck are very uncomfortable and it's making it hard to focus. Wearing glasses hurts too so I'm limiting that as well. I'm going to take Advil today and see if it helps.

I putzed around the house, did a few chores, planned more picture hanging (with paper cutouts on the wall), watched some Last of Us. 

I did get over the loneliness. Catch up phone call with a good friend and a few more touching points from people. I'm going to cancel the hike tomorrow so it'll be a very solo week. I'm not healed enough to hike, but I'll try a Peloton ride this morning. I also declined a neighborhood party tonight. Not the moment to meet neighbors. 

I will get out of the house today though. I'm out of fresh food and I have a marketplace pickup for a toddler table and chair (for crafting). Maybe I can find a little pebbley bit of fun too if I'm feeling up to it. 

My to-do list is long and I'd like to get a bunch of little things knocked out today. Not sure how much I'll accomplish, but I'll give it a go.

BTW, the new office paint is great -- totally fixed the issue with glare and doom-n-gloom vibes. 

Short and sweet today. Hope you have a good one. Later gators.

Looking for a Groove

Yesterday was okay. I did a number of things to test the waters on how I feel (aka can I be by myself for the week). The underlying issue (food poisoning or virus) is gone and I'm totally recovered from it. The rest of the situation is from passing out, but that's not a concern.

That said, my body HURTS. It's hard to wear glasses because my nose is probably broken. My shoulder and neck ache and I can't get comfortable. My lip and mouth are cut and sore. My hand is wonky still.

All in all, improving and, again, so grateful it wasn't worse. Given this is the second day, I'm healing rapidly.

I didn't sleep well last night and I'm not feeling myself this morning. I want to rally and get at this solo week. I have so many little ME things on a list and I want to find that excitement about it again. 

Instead, I'm feeling a little blue and nervous about being alone and a little lonely. This is odd for me. It's funny because I was so excited about a solo week that also included many of "my people" out of pocket so I'd really get have time to myself. Now I wish I had people around this week and social stuff on my calendar. It's actually a bit crazy how many people are out of town this week. Every friend except one (and I'm planning to hike with her on Thursday if I feel up to it). 

I expect this will pass. 

On another note, I took my recovery time and watched Ludwik on BBC. Absolutely loved it. Cute, funny, predictable-ish and mindless fun. Sad I finished it already. 

I'll end here for today. Time to figure out a rally plan that includes some fun. I imagine that will perk me up and I'll be back in a good groove. Hope you're having a good week. Later gators.

In A Flash

Things changed very quickly for my plans this weekend. 

First, the bookclub event was fantastic and we are already moving forward on the next idea. One of the ladies brought a friend and she's so nice -- we hit it off immediately. Great coffee, teas, and treats. I brought the food home to hubby since it was all gluten sweets. As wonky and unstable as this group is feels (barely holding together), it's still ticking and now it's building back. Proud of my efforts.

Came home to my office painted. It's so much better. I haven't done anything yet -- paint needed to dry and then came the twist for the weekend.

I hadn't eaten much of anything all day (just a lot of drinks) so I souped up my leftovers from dinner with more veggies for a late lunch. Not long after, I didn't feel great. Dead to the world -- like didn't want to get up from the sofa, dead. No energy. Bone tired. I thought it was just the long day. 

Went to bed super early and got chills, nauseous, tossing and turning until about 1 o'clock. Got up to pee, feeling crappy. Sitting on the toilet, I got dizzy and was worried about passing out. I needed to get up and get down on the floor -- remembering the last time I passed out in a bathroom. That was the last thought I remembered.

Woke up having face planted on the rug in the bathroom. Results -- double black eyes, swollen/cut nose, cut eye, cut lip, hurt both hands (left is bad). Thankfully, my teeth are fine. Hubby helped me. Then I got sick like I've never been sick. I don't think I've ever barfed that much in my life. 

Slept on and off and felt better in the morning. Hubby insisted on walking me to the bathroom where I promptly passed out again. This time he was there to help so I didn't hurt myself.

I was so sick. 

He postponed his trip until tomorrow (assuming I'm okay which I think I will be). He took amazing care of me. 

I'm improved this morning. Not hungry, but my stomach feels better. My face looks like crap, but doesn't hurt as much. My left hand is the worst of it right now. I must have stunned a nerve. It's all nerve pain, tingles, painful itching. It's looks totally normal. I think I landed on the hand (my oura ring cut my eye, but my hand saved my teeth). Almost like a crush issue. I'm sore too -- neck, upper back, but doesn't feel injured. 

Since I had my oura ring on, I have some stats when it happened. Looks like I had blood pressure drop and my heart responded well (went from 50 beats to 140 to compensate). 

Didn't have this on my bingo card. Guess I wished for rest a little too hard hah. In a flash things change. 

I'm grateful it wasn't worse. It could've been a lot, lot, lot worse with the fainting. Luckily hubby hadn't left for out of town. So many close calls. Where I fell had a tub and tile and countertops. I missed it all and landed on the padded large rug. I think I was actively getting down and that probably helped. 

I could actually cry at how grateful I am that this wasn't worse. I don't know what I would have done if hubby wasn't here. I would've passed out a second time or maybe more with no help. The fall was in the best place it could've been. Lucky beyond measure.

I'll be taking it mostly easy today. I have a meeting for volunteering that'll be hard to postpone. Hubby will drive me and wait. We'll go over to the other house to do some yard work (hubby) and pick up a package. Then, rest for me. 

Starting a quiet week to recover. Hope you have a good one. Later gators.

Go, Go, Go

I'm ready for a slow-down day. Full life is great AND I need a quiet day. I'm finger crossing for a day next week where I can relax and spend the day ONLY doing me things solo, not rushed, etc. I think most of the week will be paced better and that will help.

Babysitting was a lot of fun. He's an absolute joy and this age is adorable. Three days left me behind on my life though, but it was totally worth it. 

We had friends over to see the house and joined another couple for dinner last night. Both were great. The friends parked at our house and we walked to dinner (hot, sunny, but so easy). They came in for a drink after and I'm tired -- late night, early morning. I was glad for the conversation, but didn't expect the stop over after too.

Painters coming to do the office today. I need to clear most of the room today (planned to do that after dinner, but friends stayed late). I'm excited to see the change.

Bookclub event coordinated by me again. Back to the city to support the refugee community. Weather changed and it looks bad for the event. Dang -- rain and thunderstorms. I hope the storms hold off. I feel like this might be a bit of a bust today.

I've been going from one thing to another and that's what's feeling like "too much." I haven't had pockets of downtime between things to catch my breath. I don't like this rushed of a week (and month) even though I'm having fun.

I want to move forward on a few things -- Spanish being a priority. Organizing my bookshelves another "me" project. Rock painting for PRIDE month. Stocking the freezer with some cook-ups. These require some stretches of time in my day. It's not that I need to be less busy, but I need to allocate time differently. If I don't give myself this, I know I start to unravel (so to speak). Quiet, personal things for me are important. 

Garden is growing, but it needs attention. Fertilize, thin seeds, and research shading the plants. I'm worried I had to plant too late.

Best get unloading the office. Hope you have a good weekend. Later gators.

Babysitting

Change of plans. GI canceled hubby's colonoscopy and rescheduled. What a bother. Fortunately, he hadn't started the prep.

Another all day babysitting my grandson. He's such a sweetheart and I had a great time yesterday, but it's a LONG day. Lots of carrying, sitting on the floor, chasing thrown balls, reading books on repeat, etc. And, at times, boring (while he naps). Hubby plans to come over for a little while this afternoon. I'm sitting on Friday too. 

Rushed home yesterday, changed clothes, and walked to dinner with 2 girlfriends. It's the furthest restaurant from my house that I would walk to at the other end of the downtown area -- not a hard walk, but it was warm. Walk home was beautiful -- sun low so all shade, downhill, easy breeze. Lovely.

Last year I planted a fig tree I ordered online. It promptly died. I never took out the root ball and planned to plant something else this year. Don't you know it came back -- apparently, that's common. I had no idea. Lucky mistake.

Grow little one.

Seeds have all sprouted from the garden. I need to figure out how to manage a FULL SUN garden -- from dawn to dusk. Big experiment this year, especially since I planted later in the season. The plants are still very young and will have trouble with hotter temps (I think). I need to take some time to research some of this.

This week feels a little on hold since I'm babysitting. Still looking for some regular days to do regular things. My life is getting a bit behind again. I can't seem to get to a balance. My things are rushed (morning routine, garden, etc) and I haven't had time to reflect and plan -- the sort of thing that makes a difference in my days.

I'm counting on next week to help with this. Hubby leaves for 5 days, my 2 most social friends are away for the week too. This should leave me, myself, and I (plus dogs) to have that time I need. Fingers crossed. I need to use this time for good and not sofa slugging (!!)

That's all from here. Got to get going -- early morning babysitting. Later gators.

Finally a Regular Day

I had a nice "regular" day on Tuesday. No moving, no settling. Calm before 2 (or maybe 3) days of babysitting.

Found this pretty leaf on a cooldown walk with the dogs. There are so many nice options for walking -- just like in Asheville. Our new town and neighborhood are just what we wanted.

Vintage buttons from Asheville for my hiking bag.

Hike and lunch was good. We saw a lot of wildlife -- probably after days of rain and few people on the trails. No pictures because my phone was tucked in my bag.

Came home and sat with hubby on the front porch watching the houses get built. Someone came and to look at the houses and offered to buy our house (the other houses didn't fit their needs). Gave us his information and everything. Hah. Can't give away the other house and got a drive-by offer on this one.

I'm babysitting my grandson all day today. He's feeling better so I hope it goes smoothly. 9-4 and we can't go anywhere. Geez. It's going to be a long day. And I'll love spending time with him. Doing the same tomorrow after a 7 am colonoscopy for hubby. Possibly on Friday too, but I should be able to take him out by Friday.

Wish me and my back luck today. Later gators.

Bunch of Updates

Interesting day yesterday.

My grandson has hand-foot-mouth virus. Very contagious. I'm might be babysitting Wed-Friday ... with mixed feelings. I don't want to catch this. I don't want 3 days tied to their house. I don't want to try and console and entertain little guy who feels so sick. That said, I'm here to help and I'm taking a very, very big one for the family. My DIL took off today and she may end up taking off tomorrow too because he's really feeling miserable. Poor little guy. We were exposed on Sunday -- 3-6 day incubation period. More exposure to come.

Went to midtown yesterday to pickup my wedding band after it dropped a stone AGAIN. Ended up in a heated conversation with the owner. It's a long story. I asked how we can prevent this from continuing to happen since it didn't happen for years and now it's happening regularly. I wasn't asking for a discount or making demands -- nothing. She went from 0-60 accusing me of not being honest about when I wear the ring, etc. I stood up for myself in an extremely direct and assertive way. She made comments under her breath and I called her out. What did I hear you say? 

It's funny about this kind of thing. I don't feel good about a confrontation, but I feel good about being direct back. I was really direct. I wasn't snarky and didn't raise my voice. She walked away (left me with her assistant), but came back with a better attitude. The ring is getting a modification and I have to pick it up another day. No apology, of course. 

Funny how deciding to not be walked over, not be a wall flower, etc feels like confrontation. I fight gaslighting myself into thinking it's me. Was I too direct? Should I have let the comments go? Does it matter what she says to me? 

Right now speaking up does matter to me. Maybe someday it won't as I continue to grow. It feels like this is a necessary path. I somehow need to show it out loud first (nicely as I can). Maybe there will be a point that knowing it to myself is enough.

I think there is a difference between "taking it" by saying nothing and "having my back" while saying nothing. I'm not there yet. "Having my back" needs to be out loud right now and I'm not sorry for it. 

That was quite a ramble. On other notes ... here's a list. 

1. Rug came for the basement and it works well. It was a lot cheaper to bind a remanent. 

2. Hung a bunch of pictures in the bedroom. Might need a little more, but I'm sitting with it for a bit first. I like it -- don't love, love it, but that's okay. 

3. Office is getting painted on Saturday. 

4. Gave up on "The Stand" after 700 pages. This was the unabridged version with 1200 pages -- couldn't do it. It wasn't as interesting as I remember and it was more disturbing than I remember, so I let it go. Maybe it was because it was a reread that it didn't hold for me. Next up ... "Mr. Mercedes." I haven't read this one. Trying a little Stephen King book flight of 3 books. Finishing with his dragon book (can't remember title just now -- coming used in a couple of weeks). 

5. Watching You on Netflix. This season is great so far. I think it's as good as the first season with a twist I didn't see coming.

6. Nada on the house selling front. Ghosted for the last 2 showings. Nothing this weekend. It's shocking to me that we aren't getting any traffic. It's a beautiful house, in great shape, priced well, nice neighborhood, etc. 

7. Wedding pictures are in -- I won't share many because of bots, but here's a dancing picture. Apparently, I like to conduct.

Hope you have a good day. Rain pulled out so going for an early run and a muddy hike with my Tuesday group. Later gators.

Rainy Monday

It's like I forgot how to host a dinner yesterday. I was unorganized, unprepared, had no idea where my serving things were, didn't set the oven correctly ... geez. Had a nice dinner, but it wasn't my normal flow. Roasted balsamic veggies were served for dessert (since oven mishap). We had to get eating because our grandson was tired and not feeling well (headed to pediatrician today for a bad rash).

Pretty flowers from my DIL. 

I painted a wooden block and started PRIDE rocks too. June is around the corner.

It is STILL raining today with thunderstorms all day. We're in a big rain pattern. No hiking or outside run and hike tomorrow might be in jeopardy too.

We *should* get a painting quote for the office today. Fingers crossed they show up. Hung the rest of pictures in my craft room. It's a lot of busy, but I like the look. Bound remnant coming for the basement today too. Step by step getting settled.

Hope you're set for a good week. Later gators.

Happy Mother's Day

We thought the rain was ending last night, but it'll rain most of today too. Oh well. It's an indoor cookout now. We'll get some use out of the covered porches.

I got my monthly today and that explains a lot lol. Menopause clock starts over again. 

I'm slowly focusing on "regular" life as the move list tapers down. It feels good and fun -- we start a very different type of living in this area. The things I want to do, person I want to be, etc is much easier from this vantage point. It was a big leap for us. We were already finding ways to live parts of it, but now we can settle into exploring this new way more fully.

Even so, it takes effort to make a change. It's too easy to fall back on old ways. I've gotten much better at not starting/stopping and starting over. I keep moving forward even if life derails a bit. Remembering who I want to be and what that looks like. It's always a series of little things and that's why it's so easy to NOT do the things. Does it really matter? Yet, it does. 

I'm not talking about pushing in an extreme way. Just making the little efforts to be who I want to be. Walking to the coffee shop. Taking my reusable cup. Picking flowers for the counter. Painting the rocks for PRIDE month. Reading the poetry. Doing the meditation. Making the meal. Sending the text. Organizing the bookclub. Going to the class. Registering for the hike. 

Walked over.
Took my reusable cup.
Plant forward meal.
Read a book.
Supported an inclusive business. 

All adds up to a day that feels good. Feels like ME. 

"How do you plan to use your one wild and precious life." Mary Oliver. Yep, I love to plan my day, week, etc. with intention. It's been the biggest life changer habit for me. Not just a to-do list for chores. It's a life list intentionally focused on what makes me feel my best. 

Hope you have a great day. Later gators.

Rainy Saturday

I have no more driving stamina -- totally pooped. We did it though. A HUGE van and car load to the house. It's all storage stuff that'll need to be organized a bit better, but it's okay for now. Mostly Christmas decorations to be consolidated since I purged a lot over the last few years. 

We hung more pictures which helps get stuff out of the corner of the rooms. Still haven't worked on the smaller decor stuff -- piled on dressers, etc. 

The HVAC guy finally showed up and vented the workout room. The painter pushed to Monday for the quote on my office. 50% happened -- not horrible. 

I picked from the garden yesterday (at my old house) and filled this 1960s aluminum cup rack I got in Asheville. Did I show you this yet? It's really cool.

Picked greens and herbs. I didn't have a jar for the herbs (brought one to transport the flowers in water) so I wrapped them in a collard green leaf. Look at the size. I don't like collards though. The spring garden is almost finished -- things are bolting because I'm not there to pick often. 

Regular life stuff today. Prepping for Mother's Day cookout, watering indoor plants (such a long process), and taking my old dog for his physical appointment. Settling on hold until Monday. It feels good to have a break. 

I finally made the library switch and reserved a couple of books. I also searched classes and there are Spanish classes at some of the locations. Awesome -- can't wait to try them starting this summer (all free). I miss Spanish study and (once again) want to get back to it. My old library didn't have any -- more diversity in this county. Spanish is on my goal list again.

Rain all day today. It's a nice day to putter at home. Hope you have a good one. Later gators.

It's Friday

I had a much better day yesterday than I expected. 

Lots of activity. 3 mile run. 6 mile hike (we got turned around so longer than my friend wanted). 2 mile walk. 

Iced chai AND an iced americano on a shaded patio with friends and friendly people. 

Walked to lunch with hubby. 

Carpet store to order a bound remnant for the basement. Checked that off the list. 

Garden stuff. House chores. Bed early to read.

Complaining about the prospect of the day worked lol. Just kidding. You never know -- things can turn lots of ways. I'm glad I spoke up and did the day on my terms too instead of letting everyone else have a voice while I stayed quiet.

Guess what I'm doing today? Yep, taking ANOTHER load from the old house. Hubby is renting a box van. I'm driving a TV in my car. This will get us closer. The lawn mower, cleaning supplies, and vacuum will need to come once the house sells. 

Two contractors are scheduled to come later today -- I'm not holding my breath. The one has postponed 3 times. I'm also going to work on decor. I didn't get to that yesterday. 

Short and sweet this morning. Hope you are set for a good weekend. Later gators.

Group Dynamics

Story of my life ... packed car. Another day, another trip. We had to go to the house so we brought back another carload. That said, each trip we check off a few things. This one was productive and the lavender + fig tree got a ride over. It's a finite list that feels infinite, but the law of finite says someday we will actually be finished (!!)

This morning I'm running a couple of miles, hiking a few more, walking to the local coffee shop. The run is solo. The hike is with a friend. The coffee adds her friend too. This was easy plans then my friend changed things over and over -- way too complicated. I texted her and wished her well, but said I was sticking to THIS version of the plans. Guess it's happening. All the changes so this friend can meet us for coffee at a designated time. She was never part of the original plans, but everything is changing so she can join us for a quick coffee?!?

This is why group dynamics give me problems. I KNOW I need to be a little more flexible, and I am in the beginning. Once plans are firmed up though, I plan around those plans. Change after change messes me up. Different timing, different mountain, different mileage -- geez. Mileage changed, trail changed so it's no longer a workout. So I added the run because no time to hike extra (it'll be dark). I accommodated the changes and then said enough. Probably should have stuck to our original plans and let her change up the time with the friend or the friend could join us a different day. BTW, this friend has backed out of every other time she planned to join us. 

I complain a lot about this kind of thing and I'm trying to work out where the line is for me. It's a balance I don't have figured out yet. Am I making a mountain out of a mole hill? But there are often too many mole hills. These add up to a week where "my stuff" gets pushed out. But isn't it important to be with people and isn't this just part of what people do? See ... questions without answers. 

Okay, enough of that this morning. The rest of the day is gardening and decorating. It feels good to be home this week and not prepping for a trip this weekend.

This is also a sad morning as my son and DIL are saying goodbye to one of their sweet dogs. It's heartbreaking. Godspeed sweet June. 

Later gators.

Full Day, Good Sleep

Big, full day AND a good night's sleep again. Phew. I'm starting to feel back to myself.

I hiked a total of 10 miles -- but an easy 10. As expected, the group hiked short so I got my full hike mileage to keep my legs ready for harder club hikes. It was cool and empty and so nice.

We tried the new pizza place for lunch. One of the best GF I've ever had and they have an easy takeout. The disappointment was the drinks. Nothing but cans (no iced tea) and served in plastic cups. Seriously?!?! In this day and age? Low marks for me on the plastic, but, man the pizza was fantastic.

GF margarita.
Star pizza in back -- the
specialty of the place.

Home to plant the garden. This is a big experiment. FULL SUN and lots of critters so not sure what will survive. I'm sure I'll need some things to protect the plants. Not expecting a lot of success this year, but using this to learn what I need to do for the big garden next year.

I figured out a paint color for the office and have a painter coming to quote on Friday. Fingers crossed. 

New tires today so I won't have a car most of the day. This'll give me time to work on organizing and decor. One area at a time. Working on my bedroom right now. Big mirror hung so I can start the picture wall.

Hope you have a good day. Later gators. 

Sleep

I slept well for the first time in a long time. It feels good. I've been exhausted in a way that felt dangerous to walk the world lol. Stepping out in front of cars, zoning out, etc. Not tired from busy, but tired from not sleeping. Total sleep around 4 or 5 hours a night and it wasn't quality sleep. 

Finally -- over 8 hours and good restorative sleep. My temperature is up and I don't know if that means I'm fighting something or my hormones are leveling off again. I had a headache yesterday which can be either. Hoping for another good night tonight. 

Hiking with my friend group today for our usual Tuesday hike+lunch. Trying a new "hot" pizza place my kids recommended -- Michelin starred in their Miami location. I'll go a little early and hike a few miles solo. I'd like a little extra mileage and some solo time. 

Here's a consignment store find. London Fog rain coat. I used it on Saturday -- perfect weight and size. Only $30.

My aunt gave me a little gift for the new house. I trimmed some lavender sprigs and it smells nice.

Hubby was a saint and filled my mini garden. I'll plant today. Pictures to come. 

Yesterday was productive and I got a few things off my organization plate. Changing address for a lot of things, canceling services, making appointments, etc. I had so many little things needing attention that I was anxious about it. This feels a bit better this morning. More to go, but I got a big chunk finished. 

I hope that I can settle a lot of things this week and feel like life can pace closers to normal. 

Hope you have a good day. Later gators.

Monday Complaints :(

Back home and feeling all Monday-ish this morning. It's unusual for me since I enjoy Mondays, but today feels off.

Contractor changed up day and I now need to be up and ready by 8 o'clock this morning. Once again, rushed, abbreviated morning. Then I need to go pick up a load from the old house -- things that I can't lift myself and hubby needs to help move. Didn't I JUST say how happy I am to take a break from loading my car, driving, etc? 

This week is filling up in a way that I didn't want and I feel like I have little choice about it. 

I need space -- quiet reflection time. Alone!! 

I'm also "off" because my spaces aren't settled. Garden -- landscapers ghosted moving soil last week. Office -- the dark paint isn't working AT ALL. Workout room -- needs ventilation so the space is a mess until that gets fixed. Bedroom -- I hate the carpet and it's throwing off how the room feels. 

I wish I wasn't so responsive or sensitive to aesthetics and environment, but I am -- especially when all the spaces aren't comfortable yet so I have no comfort-space to retreat.

Add that I'm overstimulated from back-to-back weekends of heavy socialization and driving and I'm out of sorts. 

My tank filled in Asheville with family, but I guess I have other tanks that need attention. 

Dogs and hubby want attention too. I've been gone a lot over the last 2 weeks. 

Lordy, I hope I can regroup. I need to put some firm space for me on the calendar coming up. This means holding boundaries and saying no to some "asks." And I need to look for other ways to find the quiet moments. 

Enough Monday complaining. Hope you're off to a good start to the week. Later gators.

Filled Up

Long, lovely, tiring, amazing day with FAMILY celebrating my niece. I'm filled to the brim with goodness and also a bit worn out. 

We shopped the farmer's market -- haven't been since September. It's a shell of its former self, but it's coming back. Local farmers and vendors are still recovering.

Incredible GF brunch at my sister's house. 

Downtown for shopping, chai (of course), and bracelet making. We each made 3 -- one was with my grandson in mind and the other 2 are vintage beads from Europe.

Another incredible meal at a certified GF restaurant. It's downtown and I had no idea it was GF. My sister said they don't advertise it because it turns off some customers. Alcohol-free wine, GF breads like I've never had before -- I ate my weight in bread between brunch and dinner. I brought most of my dinner home. I can't remember the last time I "filled up on the bread basket" and couldn't eat my dinner lol. It was totally worth it (!!)

I'm trying to manage my mind around  "being tired." Am I overtired or am I dreading all the things I need to do? Probably the latter. I keep telling myself I need a minute to catch my breath and organize my week. Truth is I probably have plenty of time to do that, but in a different way than I normally do. I want to stay in the moment of today though. Fun still ahead and I can't get a case of the SMondays already this morning. 

Washing sheets, cleaning up ... and sitting with the windows open, listening to the wildly loud robins (I downloaded a bird app just to figure out who had such a loud song). Work and peace can go hand in hand -- I want to remember this. And, I guess, I've read ahead in the mid-life manual to the chapter on birds. Steadily becoming "that" person now.

On that note, must get on to other things. We're headed to my niece's house to see the nursery before we head home. Have a good Sunday. Later gators. 

Fun Continues

Started the day with 3 bears lingering around the house -- never gets old. Mama and her 2 growing adolescents. They've grown a lot since I've seen them. Bears tend to stay in the same area for a season. This family came back again after denning. 

Delayed my run for a bit until they moved up the mountain. Run was nice in the cool morning. Always little pockets of delight in Asheville.

Flowers in bloom everywhere. Asheville finally got its usual rain and everything is green and lush -- no more fires and smoke.

We shopped all day. I have a few goodies to share once I unpack and take pictures. Lunch al fresco on a perfect weather day.

Good GF pizza

Then a family cookout at my sister's house. MY BIL doesn't drink and he found this cocktail after searching for years for something "realistic." I swear it tastes like the real thing. I ordered some for home -- available on Amazon and direct from the company. They have a lot of other options too.

My DILs arrive this morning and we're spending the day celebrating my niece and her babies, but first and stop at the farmer's market. I haven't been since last fall before the storm. It should be another good day. I feel really lucky to have such a posse of women in my family. We laughed so much already -- something I need to do more. This trip is filling up my very depleted tank.

Hope you have a good day too. Later gators.