Happy Easter, everyone!
Hope you had a wonderful day spent with those you love.
Happy Walking!
Sunday, March 31, 2013
Saturday, March 30, 2013
Day 129: A Day with my daughter
Today, my oldest daughter and I spent the day crafting with some new friends (K is a natural), then we spent the evening at church watching the Young Women's General Conference.
It was a wonderful day. I loved being with my daughter all day.
Happy Walking!
It was a wonderful day. I loved being with my daughter all day.
Happy Walking!
Friday, March 29, 2013
Day 128: 5 Gratitudes for Friday, 14
I have been at odds with my son lately. He is almost 10, very smart, very determined and I am very ready to wring his neck (in the nicest, most loving way possible). So, today's gratitude's is all about my son because I need to see him as God sees him.
1. Z's creative mind. No sooner than I am done reading or explaining a history lesson & Z will already have a great idea for a re-enactment or something to create out of LEGOs that perfectly fits the lesson. He does a great job of grasping the central idea & then making it real for all of us.
2. Z is a builder at heart. Every 6 weeks he gets a woodworking kit in the mail (thanks to my mom). He loves these kits & zips right through them. In the beginning I would tell him to read the directions and take his time. He didn't listen, but he doesn't need to either. Sure he could be a little more percise with his measuring, but he is great at figuring out how to build things. He has made some pretty cool things with LEGOs and with these woodworking kits. He even likes to help me figure out how to hang pictures or build a shelf.
3. He takes after Steve when it comes to video games, board games & strategy. He loves playing video games & he always figures the tips & tricks out first. He loves to share his knowledge with everyone. Steve & I have to stifle our smiles when Z imparts his wisdom to Steve. Z also enjoys playing chess or Axis & Allies or Magic with Steve - he learns the basic strategy & does a good job of building on it.
4. Z has a very tender heart. He hates to see anyone get hurt or get into trouble. He is the first one to bring you a comfort item - especially if you are sick or hurt. He tries his best to help people choose the right to avoid getting into trouble as well.
5. Z can be pretty silly which can make me laugh (when I am not tired or exasperated). He will do his own sound effects & theme music while playing. He has all sorts of crazy voices & personalities for his stuff animals. And he can write fan fic on the fly. When the children want to do a round robin or just play a game it is usually based on a movie, book or video game - Z comes up with some of the craziest & silliest scenes, but always manages to keep true to the spirit of the movie, book or video game.
Love ya, Z!
1. Z's creative mind. No sooner than I am done reading or explaining a history lesson & Z will already have a great idea for a re-enactment or something to create out of LEGOs that perfectly fits the lesson. He does a great job of grasping the central idea & then making it real for all of us.
2. Z is a builder at heart. Every 6 weeks he gets a woodworking kit in the mail (thanks to my mom). He loves these kits & zips right through them. In the beginning I would tell him to read the directions and take his time. He didn't listen, but he doesn't need to either. Sure he could be a little more percise with his measuring, but he is great at figuring out how to build things. He has made some pretty cool things with LEGOs and with these woodworking kits. He even likes to help me figure out how to hang pictures or build a shelf.
3. He takes after Steve when it comes to video games, board games & strategy. He loves playing video games & he always figures the tips & tricks out first. He loves to share his knowledge with everyone. Steve & I have to stifle our smiles when Z imparts his wisdom to Steve. Z also enjoys playing chess or Axis & Allies or Magic with Steve - he learns the basic strategy & does a good job of building on it.
4. Z has a very tender heart. He hates to see anyone get hurt or get into trouble. He is the first one to bring you a comfort item - especially if you are sick or hurt. He tries his best to help people choose the right to avoid getting into trouble as well.
5. Z can be pretty silly which can make me laugh (when I am not tired or exasperated). He will do his own sound effects & theme music while playing. He has all sorts of crazy voices & personalities for his stuff animals. And he can write fan fic on the fly. When the children want to do a round robin or just play a game it is usually based on a movie, book or video game - Z comes up with some of the craziest & silliest scenes, but always manages to keep true to the spirit of the movie, book or video game.
Love ya, Z!
Thursday, March 28, 2013
Day 127: Slipped my mind...
I had a really great idea for today's post....sadly at 9pm as I write the post the idea has completely slipped my mind. Next time I am going to have to jot the idea down somewhere!
Just know that I love writing this blog. I love walking, I love writing and I love that I can share all of this random thoughts & side journeys with you - my friends and family!
Happy Walking!
Just know that I love writing this blog. I love walking, I love writing and I love that I can share all of this random thoughts & side journeys with you - my friends and family!
Happy Walking!
Wednesday, March 27, 2013
Day 126: Walking with twisting on the side
Since the weather is having a tough time choosing to be spring like instead of winter like, I decided that I needed an alternate plan to walking at home.
And no, I am still not spending the money on a treadmill.
When I first started this journey, walking at home - be it marching in place or do laps in living room - was a hard work out. It is sad to admit I was that out of shape. I really was. 30 minutes of marching in place wore me out.
Yet it doesn't cut it anymore. I noticed this last week when I was marching in place while the children watched a cartoon. I was bored. I couldn't get my heart pounding for any length of time. I kept checking the timer hoping the "walk" was over. Yeah, it isn't usually like that.
This week, when once again the roads were too icy for me to drive, I pulled out my old Zumba Wii game. I love Zumba. I love to dance. The music is catchy...the rhythms practically pull you out of your chair. And I get an awesome work out in - hardly can talk, breathing hard, heart pounding. yeah, good stuff. The bonus is that my kids like Zumba too.
I didn't start my journey off using Zumba because my children like to mess with me. If I can Zumba without them it is fun. If they are anywhere near me than...watch out! They will try to stand in front of the t.v., they will try to crawl between my legs, they will try to cut across my path...all kinds of crazy stuff. They do the same kind of crazy stuff when I have regular music on & want to just dance. I never stopped them because I didn't want my exercise time to be a memory of mom being frustrated with them. When we lived with my in-laws it was super easy to Zumba without the children...not so much here. Anyway, long story still too long - I did walking so we could all exercise & I wouldn't get frustrated or be messed with.
I am rather proud of myself because on Monday, I told the children they needed to exercise even on the days we didn't go to the mall to walk. I told them we would Zumba. I also told them the "rules" - I would march behind the couch and they could not mess with me! They had to move the entire 30 minutes but they did not have to follow the Zumba dance. They had to be respectful of everyone in the room.
It is working out so well, the children are requesting to Zumba in the morning when I tuck them into bed.
But I do have to confess...I can't just march in place. The music is too good. I end up doing little dance steps & shaking my hips. I do make myself do all the arms movements while I half dance, half march in place. But I don't think this "change" in the journey is a bad one. I am getting a really good workout in, my children are exercising too & we are all laughing & having fun. Seems to me like it is a win-win - the kind of thing to look for in a journey!
Happy Walking!
And no, I am still not spending the money on a treadmill.
When I first started this journey, walking at home - be it marching in place or do laps in living room - was a hard work out. It is sad to admit I was that out of shape. I really was. 30 minutes of marching in place wore me out.
Yet it doesn't cut it anymore. I noticed this last week when I was marching in place while the children watched a cartoon. I was bored. I couldn't get my heart pounding for any length of time. I kept checking the timer hoping the "walk" was over. Yeah, it isn't usually like that.
This week, when once again the roads were too icy for me to drive, I pulled out my old Zumba Wii game. I love Zumba. I love to dance. The music is catchy...the rhythms practically pull you out of your chair. And I get an awesome work out in - hardly can talk, breathing hard, heart pounding. yeah, good stuff. The bonus is that my kids like Zumba too.
I didn't start my journey off using Zumba because my children like to mess with me. If I can Zumba without them it is fun. If they are anywhere near me than...watch out! They will try to stand in front of the t.v., they will try to crawl between my legs, they will try to cut across my path...all kinds of crazy stuff. They do the same kind of crazy stuff when I have regular music on & want to just dance. I never stopped them because I didn't want my exercise time to be a memory of mom being frustrated with them. When we lived with my in-laws it was super easy to Zumba without the children...not so much here. Anyway, long story still too long - I did walking so we could all exercise & I wouldn't get frustrated or be messed with.
I am rather proud of myself because on Monday, I told the children they needed to exercise even on the days we didn't go to the mall to walk. I told them we would Zumba. I also told them the "rules" - I would march behind the couch and they could not mess with me! They had to move the entire 30 minutes but they did not have to follow the Zumba dance. They had to be respectful of everyone in the room.
It is working out so well, the children are requesting to Zumba in the morning when I tuck them into bed.
But I do have to confess...I can't just march in place. The music is too good. I end up doing little dance steps & shaking my hips. I do make myself do all the arms movements while I half dance, half march in place. But I don't think this "change" in the journey is a bad one. I am getting a really good workout in, my children are exercising too & we are all laughing & having fun. Seems to me like it is a win-win - the kind of thing to look for in a journey!
Happy Walking!
Tuesday, March 26, 2013
Day 125: Happiness
Have you ever thought of what makes you super happy?
I'm not talking about outside happiness - like when your husband surprises you with roses.
I'm talking about the end of the day, sigh of happiness, because it was a good day.
"Today was a good day"
What makes me happy is a clean & organized house. It doesn't have to be decorated. I lived for a number of years in a home without ever putting a picture up - but I loved that home. I was happy a lot in that home. That home was clean & organized. Probably the most organized I've ever had a home.
I started noticing the last few months that my current home is not organized. Nor is it as clean as I would like it to be. I feel as if I live in chaos. I don't like it.
I find it interesting that as I feel better about myself - a direct result of my daily walks - the more I desire to get my house clean & organized.
Just like I had to look at myself & accept my body the way it is now (the idea of "yes...and?"), I have to do the same with my house.
My house is old. The house has cosmetic problems - grout needing to be fixed, walls cracked, etc.
My walls are gray. My curtains are brown. I have tiles, wood & carpet floors.
These are things that I have to accept. I can't change the age of the house. I am not going to spend the money on painting walls or changing curtains or flooring - the house is a rental & the money isn't worth it.
I can do something about some of the simple cosmetic problems, plus it would be good for me to learn how to fix things! (I even have a friend who offered to help me.)
I think as I accept the house for what it is and also accept what I am willing to spend my time & money on...then I will find the desire to clean & organize my home...and find my happiness.
Here is a picture of my first attempt & making my house a little more clean & organized. Honestly? I love it! It has been over a year that this area has been complete chaos of shoes & coats every where. The area is not done...but done enough that I can move on to the next big problem area. :)
I'm not talking about outside happiness - like when your husband surprises you with roses.
I'm talking about the end of the day, sigh of happiness, because it was a good day.
"Today was a good day"
What makes me happy is a clean & organized house. It doesn't have to be decorated. I lived for a number of years in a home without ever putting a picture up - but I loved that home. I was happy a lot in that home. That home was clean & organized. Probably the most organized I've ever had a home.
I started noticing the last few months that my current home is not organized. Nor is it as clean as I would like it to be. I feel as if I live in chaos. I don't like it.
I find it interesting that as I feel better about myself - a direct result of my daily walks - the more I desire to get my house clean & organized.
Just like I had to look at myself & accept my body the way it is now (the idea of "yes...and?"), I have to do the same with my house.
My house is old. The house has cosmetic problems - grout needing to be fixed, walls cracked, etc.
My walls are gray. My curtains are brown. I have tiles, wood & carpet floors.
These are things that I have to accept. I can't change the age of the house. I am not going to spend the money on painting walls or changing curtains or flooring - the house is a rental & the money isn't worth it.
I can do something about some of the simple cosmetic problems, plus it would be good for me to learn how to fix things! (I even have a friend who offered to help me.)
I think as I accept the house for what it is and also accept what I am willing to spend my time & money on...then I will find the desire to clean & organize my home...and find my happiness.
Here is a picture of my first attempt & making my house a little more clean & organized. Honestly? I love it! It has been over a year that this area has been complete chaos of shoes & coats every where. The area is not done...but done enough that I can move on to the next big problem area. :)
Monday, March 25, 2013
Day 124: Liking myself in Pictures
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| Picture by S |
Yep, another top for my favorite skirt...again, it looks okay. I like this sweater better than some of the other tops, but it is not as good as the purple one.
As fun as it is trying to find the "best" top for this skirt & making a real "outfit". What I find I enjoy the most is my pictures. For a long time I have disliked pictures of myself, but since doing this wardrobe project...I find...I don't mind myself in pictures. I can still see my flaws, but I also can see my assets. I no longer cringe over my flaws - I have just accepted them & chosen to move on. Pretty good feeling.
Happy Walking!
Sunday, March 24, 2013
Day 123: The Weather Journey
What can I say about today? It snowed...again! I think the weather is the perfect way to learn how to enjoy the journey of our life.
I mean, I can not control the weather - only my attitude about the weather. Does snow in March drive me crazy? A little bit, but only because yesterday I saw the beginnings of flowers popping out of the ground. But I can still appreciate the snow - it is doing a great job of killing insects. That is always a plus. Perhaps an extra long winter will help with the rains & crops this summer? Which is always needed. I know, that I am personally grateful for all the extra cold because that means all the bagged items in my sun room (which is not insulated) will stay cold a little longer as I slowly reclean all the children's items...(yes, the bed bug war of 2013 appears to be over, but I must be ever vigilant!)
Not sure how to relate this to our lives...other than we will have times when it feels like a certain "season" will never end, but it will...and in the mean time, our attitude will make all the difference in the world on how we handle it.
Happy Walking!
I mean, I can not control the weather - only my attitude about the weather. Does snow in March drive me crazy? A little bit, but only because yesterday I saw the beginnings of flowers popping out of the ground. But I can still appreciate the snow - it is doing a great job of killing insects. That is always a plus. Perhaps an extra long winter will help with the rains & crops this summer? Which is always needed. I know, that I am personally grateful for all the extra cold because that means all the bagged items in my sun room (which is not insulated) will stay cold a little longer as I slowly reclean all the children's items...(yes, the bed bug war of 2013 appears to be over, but I must be ever vigilant!)
Not sure how to relate this to our lives...other than we will have times when it feels like a certain "season" will never end, but it will...and in the mean time, our attitude will make all the difference in the world on how we handle it.
Happy Walking!
Saturday, March 23, 2013
Day 122: Goal #1...done!
Quick post...well, quick post for me. :)
I forced myself to get up on time this morning (despite my love for sleeping in on Saturday), in the hopes that 1 - I would be more productive today & 2 - It will slowly get easier waking up on time during the week.
I think it worked for #1 goal, as for the other goal...well, only time will tell.
Hope everyone is enjoying their weekend!
Happy Walking!
I forced myself to get up on time this morning (despite my love for sleeping in on Saturday), in the hopes that 1 - I would be more productive today & 2 - It will slowly get easier waking up on time during the week.
I think it worked for #1 goal, as for the other goal...well, only time will tell.
Hope everyone is enjoying their weekend!
Happy Walking!
Friday, March 22, 2013
Day 121: 5 Gratitudes for Friday, 13
1. Organizing books. I love organizing books. I have loved them since I was a kid. My mom had an organizing book on the shelf that I read for fun one day...yeah, for fun. Ever since I can remember I have had an overwhelming desire to clean & organize. I remember a time when we were moving from Kentucky to Saipan (a small island near Guam). It was my job to go next door to our neighbors & wash our clothes - our washer & dryer were already on a truck headed for Saipan. This neighbor had a small delicate tea set that was covered in dust. I cleaned it. I was so nervous I would get caught & get in trouble for touching her stuff...but I had to clean it. I mean, it was really dusty. So yeah, I love having a clean house, I love cleaning and I love organizing. But even I sometimes get into a funk or find a challenge that kind of just baffles me.
This house is challenge and it baffles me. Three stories is more than I have ever had before. I feel like I am constantly playing catch up. All of my old tips & tricks were just not getting it done.
My friend, Karen, is an organizing junkie like me...in fact, she does it sooo much better than I do. So, I asked for some help & she let me borrow some of her organizing/cleaning books. Wow! Light bulbs have been going off in my head like crazy! I am not completely changing my routine, in fact, all I am doing is tweaking my routine...but more importantly I am tweaking my attitude. Literally, I have had a bit of a paradigm shift. Yoohoo! There is hope for me yet!
2. Les Mis out on DVD!!!!! Steve & I bought it today. We had other plans today, so we will be watching it tomorrow with the kiddos. We own the CD & the children have the music memorized. It is their favorite thing to listen to when we are in the car. They are just as excited as I am about watching the movie!
3. A daughter old enough to babysit...wow, what freedom! I do not use this privilege very often, but it sure is nice when I can. Today, I was able to join Steve, some of his work friends & their wives for lunch. I even made a new friend. Pretty darn cool considering a year ago I would have had to find someone to watch the children! Although, you know, that is how I found one of my best friends!
4. The opportunity to serve with my children. We had a great time babysitting yesterday. I love that the children are getting older and can be a part of the service - even a big help!
5. A wonderful day - a mixture of work & play, but the perfect mix. I wasn't harried or hurried or stressed. Just calmly, joyfully, happily went from thing to thing to thing. I know this wonderful day is a mixture of a lot of hard work coming to fruition (is that the right use of that word?)...and it was worth every bit it of it!
Happy Walking!
This house is challenge and it baffles me. Three stories is more than I have ever had before. I feel like I am constantly playing catch up. All of my old tips & tricks were just not getting it done.
My friend, Karen, is an organizing junkie like me...in fact, she does it sooo much better than I do. So, I asked for some help & she let me borrow some of her organizing/cleaning books. Wow! Light bulbs have been going off in my head like crazy! I am not completely changing my routine, in fact, all I am doing is tweaking my routine...but more importantly I am tweaking my attitude. Literally, I have had a bit of a paradigm shift. Yoohoo! There is hope for me yet!
2. Les Mis out on DVD!!!!! Steve & I bought it today. We had other plans today, so we will be watching it tomorrow with the kiddos. We own the CD & the children have the music memorized. It is their favorite thing to listen to when we are in the car. They are just as excited as I am about watching the movie!
3. A daughter old enough to babysit...wow, what freedom! I do not use this privilege very often, but it sure is nice when I can. Today, I was able to join Steve, some of his work friends & their wives for lunch. I even made a new friend. Pretty darn cool considering a year ago I would have had to find someone to watch the children! Although, you know, that is how I found one of my best friends!
4. The opportunity to serve with my children. We had a great time babysitting yesterday. I love that the children are getting older and can be a part of the service - even a big help!
5. A wonderful day - a mixture of work & play, but the perfect mix. I wasn't harried or hurried or stressed. Just calmly, joyfully, happily went from thing to thing to thing. I know this wonderful day is a mixture of a lot of hard work coming to fruition (is that the right use of that word?)...and it was worth every bit it of it!
Happy Walking!
Thursday, March 21, 2013
Day 120: Glimpse of a dream
Today, the children and I babysat for a friend - we had her 2 yr. old son all day & then at 3pm we picked her girls up from school.
The school is close enough to walk, so S & I did (the other 2 stayed home with Steve and the 2 yr old).
I mention this for 2 reasons.
1 - Because at the start of this journey, over 3 months ago, I never would have tried the 10 minute walk. 10 minutes isn't long or hard, but back then it would have exhausted me. Today? It was a piece of cake...and quite fun.
2 - Because I got a little taste of the dream I had to let go. My dream, was always to live in a quaint little town in a quiet little neighborhood and walk my children to school...or when they got older meet them halfway...or when they were old enough greet them when they got home. Home schooling was never a part of my dream. Don't misunderstand me, I love home schooling. It just wasn't the original dream.
Today, as I walked home with 3 little girls in tow - all laughing, talking & sometimes running - it reminded me of that long ago dream. Might seem silly, but I am thankful I got this little taste, this little glimpse into a different life and a different dream.
I guess that is part of the journey, too. We all have plans & dreams, but we also need to go with the twists & turns that come up in our personal journey.
Happy Walking!
The school is close enough to walk, so S & I did (the other 2 stayed home with Steve and the 2 yr old).
I mention this for 2 reasons.
1 - Because at the start of this journey, over 3 months ago, I never would have tried the 10 minute walk. 10 minutes isn't long or hard, but back then it would have exhausted me. Today? It was a piece of cake...and quite fun.
2 - Because I got a little taste of the dream I had to let go. My dream, was always to live in a quaint little town in a quiet little neighborhood and walk my children to school...or when they got older meet them halfway...or when they were old enough greet them when they got home. Home schooling was never a part of my dream. Don't misunderstand me, I love home schooling. It just wasn't the original dream.
Today, as I walked home with 3 little girls in tow - all laughing, talking & sometimes running - it reminded me of that long ago dream. Might seem silly, but I am thankful I got this little taste, this little glimpse into a different life and a different dream.
I guess that is part of the journey, too. We all have plans & dreams, but we also need to go with the twists & turns that come up in our personal journey.
Happy Walking!
Wednesday, March 20, 2013
Day 119: Dissing the Black
In every color analysis/style/clothes book I read, it was stated that black is not the color for everyone.
Some books said only certain types should wear black - anything black, even accent pieces. Other books said well placed black items would be okay - like shoes, purses, skirts, etc., but absolutely not against the face. All of the books said the "little black dress" every woman should own does not have to be black - the statement just means a cocktail/party dress that looks stunning on you & you can wear to just about any function (my dress is in navy blue).
With that said, I have several black pieces in my closet. I don't think black is really my color, but I have shoes, pants, skirts, jackets & shirts in black. I never really thought about it until today...
Maybe because of yesterday's post?
Doesn't really matter. Today I threw on my "uniform" - jeans & a t-shirt. I have been attempting to dress up my uniform - wear more necklaces, wear cute shoes instead of tennis shoes, do some layering, etc.
Today's outfit was a long-sleeved t-shirt. It is a modest v-neck comes in slightly at my waist & is super comfortable. This is usually a win-win for me! In fact, I wore this same t-shirt (in a different color on Monday). Monday, I felt pretty decent. Not down, not blah, but not super energized either...just a moderate happy. Yesterday, I wore a long sleeve white t-shirt (different style though - this one hugs the curves and is a high round collar). Yesterday I was full of energy, just raring to go!
Not today. Today I was blah. I felt like I was dragging all day. It was easy for me to get side tracked into doing nothing.
Yes, I was wearing the correct bras on all three days. Yes, I was wearing a necklace & cute shoes. No luck. At one point, I wished I had something bright to throw around my neck. I don't normally do scarves, but I was wanting one today.
Maybe black really isn't my color. Something for me to ponder...
Happy Walking!
Some books said only certain types should wear black - anything black, even accent pieces. Other books said well placed black items would be okay - like shoes, purses, skirts, etc., but absolutely not against the face. All of the books said the "little black dress" every woman should own does not have to be black - the statement just means a cocktail/party dress that looks stunning on you & you can wear to just about any function (my dress is in navy blue).
With that said, I have several black pieces in my closet. I don't think black is really my color, but I have shoes, pants, skirts, jackets & shirts in black. I never really thought about it until today...
Maybe because of yesterday's post?
Doesn't really matter. Today I threw on my "uniform" - jeans & a t-shirt. I have been attempting to dress up my uniform - wear more necklaces, wear cute shoes instead of tennis shoes, do some layering, etc.
Today's outfit was a long-sleeved t-shirt. It is a modest v-neck comes in slightly at my waist & is super comfortable. This is usually a win-win for me! In fact, I wore this same t-shirt (in a different color on Monday). Monday, I felt pretty decent. Not down, not blah, but not super energized either...just a moderate happy. Yesterday, I wore a long sleeve white t-shirt (different style though - this one hugs the curves and is a high round collar). Yesterday I was full of energy, just raring to go!
Not today. Today I was blah. I felt like I was dragging all day. It was easy for me to get side tracked into doing nothing.
Yes, I was wearing the correct bras on all three days. Yes, I was wearing a necklace & cute shoes. No luck. At one point, I wished I had something bright to throw around my neck. I don't normally do scarves, but I was wanting one today.
Maybe black really isn't my color. Something for me to ponder...
Happy Walking!
Tuesday, March 19, 2013
Day 118: Learning from books
As I have been trying to dress better these last few weeks, my mind has been recalling scenes from some of my most beloved books.
In Anne of Green Gables, Anne yearns for puffy sleeves. For a very long time she is unable to get the coveted puffy sleeves so she uses her imagination - she imagines she has puffy sleeves when all she has is plain ol' boring ones. Anne finally gets her puffy sleeves (thanks to Matthew Cuthbert's kindness) and Anne slowly evolves into a very stylish young woman. Although she uses her bosom friend, Diana (who is known to have the best taste of all the young ladies), to help her dress on special occasions.
Like Anne, I have started to use my brain. My normal way of doing things is to stand in my closet, grab a pair of jeans, a bra, pick a top based on the color & style of my bra & be done. That works really great if you are not trying to build your "style muscles".
I am not going to start wearing business wear at home, but I can put a little more thought into my Sunday outfits, my date outfits and the things I wear during the week & on the weekend.
Now, sometime during the day (or right before I fall asleep), I try to think of my clothes, my necklaces & wonder how to put it all together.
It is actually something I do with the house. When I have a problem area (like too many coats & not an adequate area for them), I use my imagination to rearrange, redesign and reorganize an area long before I actually make my move. Steve thinks I decide to rearrange on a whim, but I actually have put a lot of brain power on the problem for several weeks or more.
Doing my outfits this way is a lot harder - mostly because I have never done it before. But I like the exercise & I feel like I am using my inner "Anne" - and who doesn't want to be Anne of Green Gables?
My other inspiration is the March Girls from Little Women & the sequels. All of the girls, but especially Meg, were great at turning old items into new items. In one of the sequels (Jo's Boys maybe?), Meg would do a sewing circle with some of the young ladies that attended their college. She would teach them how to make their items look "high end" by either adding touches, taking away touches, dying the articles of clothing and of course by sewing & mending.
In the past, if I had the problem of a skirt I loved, but didn't think I had anything to wear with it, I would usually just give it away...oh, how many items have I wasted! Thankfully most of my clothes are hand-me-downs, so I have not lost a ton of money! :)
Now, I am trying to channel my inner Meg & recycle some of these items - find a piece of jewelry that makes it look more modern, repair items or try every shirt I own with a skirt (heheheh - you have already seen that result!) and even, take the item to the store & see if I can turn it into a complete outfit - shoes, jewelry and all.
This is a really fun side journey & I love how thoughts of my favorite characters come to mind...makes me want to reread the books!
Happy Walking!
In Anne of Green Gables, Anne yearns for puffy sleeves. For a very long time she is unable to get the coveted puffy sleeves so she uses her imagination - she imagines she has puffy sleeves when all she has is plain ol' boring ones. Anne finally gets her puffy sleeves (thanks to Matthew Cuthbert's kindness) and Anne slowly evolves into a very stylish young woman. Although she uses her bosom friend, Diana (who is known to have the best taste of all the young ladies), to help her dress on special occasions.
Like Anne, I have started to use my brain. My normal way of doing things is to stand in my closet, grab a pair of jeans, a bra, pick a top based on the color & style of my bra & be done. That works really great if you are not trying to build your "style muscles".
I am not going to start wearing business wear at home, but I can put a little more thought into my Sunday outfits, my date outfits and the things I wear during the week & on the weekend.
Now, sometime during the day (or right before I fall asleep), I try to think of my clothes, my necklaces & wonder how to put it all together.
It is actually something I do with the house. When I have a problem area (like too many coats & not an adequate area for them), I use my imagination to rearrange, redesign and reorganize an area long before I actually make my move. Steve thinks I decide to rearrange on a whim, but I actually have put a lot of brain power on the problem for several weeks or more.
Doing my outfits this way is a lot harder - mostly because I have never done it before. But I like the exercise & I feel like I am using my inner "Anne" - and who doesn't want to be Anne of Green Gables?
My other inspiration is the March Girls from Little Women & the sequels. All of the girls, but especially Meg, were great at turning old items into new items. In one of the sequels (Jo's Boys maybe?), Meg would do a sewing circle with some of the young ladies that attended their college. She would teach them how to make their items look "high end" by either adding touches, taking away touches, dying the articles of clothing and of course by sewing & mending.
In the past, if I had the problem of a skirt I loved, but didn't think I had anything to wear with it, I would usually just give it away...oh, how many items have I wasted! Thankfully most of my clothes are hand-me-downs, so I have not lost a ton of money! :)
Now, I am trying to channel my inner Meg & recycle some of these items - find a piece of jewelry that makes it look more modern, repair items or try every shirt I own with a skirt (heheheh - you have already seen that result!) and even, take the item to the store & see if I can turn it into a complete outfit - shoes, jewelry and all.
This is a really fun side journey & I love how thoughts of my favorite characters come to mind...makes me want to reread the books!
Happy Walking!
Monday, March 18, 2013
Day 117: Odd Ah-ha moment
Tonight's post is a little odd...and a little personal.
As everyone knows I have been doing a little side journey of discovering my personal style. I have all the advice from all the books floating around in my head and an odd ah-ha moment came up.
One of the books (I think it was the Beginners Guide to Color) stated that as you dress & try other colors/clothes you should pay attention to how you feel by the end of the day. If you wear black and feel energized & ready to go at the end of the day (despite a really busy day) than black is probably a good color for you and your personality. On the other hand, if you feel drained, exhausted, etc. then black isn't good for you. (I know in Dressing Your Truth, Carol Tuttle states that only Type 4s can & should wear black).
Well, I have been keeping track of when I feel "blah" and when I feel "up".
The thing is, I haven't noticed it with any of the colors I have been wearing (does that mean I have a good sense of what colors work for me?), but I have noticed it with what bra I wear.
Weird, huh?
I walk every morning and I wear a sports bra. It is a good sports bra - it is the correct size and it is does a great job of supporting me while I walk. That is what a sports bra is for; however, if I choose to wear the sports bra all day then by the end of the day I am feeling "blah". Seriously. All I want to do is crawl into bed early & zone on t.v.
On the days I choose to switch into one of my normal bras I feel great! I am happier by the end of the day & am more willing to leave the t.v. off and do something else - even if all I do is read a book.
I am also noticing that not all of my normal bras are equal - some I feel my best in and others are more of a...neutral feeling.
What does this mean? Well, I am investing in more bras that help me feel my best that is for sure! It also means that I am on the right track - finding what helps me be the best me. Kind of cool.
Happy Walking!
As everyone knows I have been doing a little side journey of discovering my personal style. I have all the advice from all the books floating around in my head and an odd ah-ha moment came up.
One of the books (I think it was the Beginners Guide to Color) stated that as you dress & try other colors/clothes you should pay attention to how you feel by the end of the day. If you wear black and feel energized & ready to go at the end of the day (despite a really busy day) than black is probably a good color for you and your personality. On the other hand, if you feel drained, exhausted, etc. then black isn't good for you. (I know in Dressing Your Truth, Carol Tuttle states that only Type 4s can & should wear black).
Well, I have been keeping track of when I feel "blah" and when I feel "up".
The thing is, I haven't noticed it with any of the colors I have been wearing (does that mean I have a good sense of what colors work for me?), but I have noticed it with what bra I wear.
Weird, huh?
I walk every morning and I wear a sports bra. It is a good sports bra - it is the correct size and it is does a great job of supporting me while I walk. That is what a sports bra is for; however, if I choose to wear the sports bra all day then by the end of the day I am feeling "blah". Seriously. All I want to do is crawl into bed early & zone on t.v.
On the days I choose to switch into one of my normal bras I feel great! I am happier by the end of the day & am more willing to leave the t.v. off and do something else - even if all I do is read a book.
I am also noticing that not all of my normal bras are equal - some I feel my best in and others are more of a...neutral feeling.
What does this mean? Well, I am investing in more bras that help me feel my best that is for sure! It also means that I am on the right track - finding what helps me be the best me. Kind of cool.
Happy Walking!
Sunday, March 17, 2013
Day 116: Happy St. Patrick's Day!
Happy St. Patrick's Day to everyone!
I love low key holidays. :)
Today was all about stretching, drinking water & getting ready for the coming week.
I am learning that the better I plan, the better the week goes.
I am tired of feeling like I am constantly running behind or not living up to my full potential (or a fuller potential than I am currently living).
I am also learning that when I wake up on time (6am), then the rest of the day runs smoother. Is that amazing?
Hope everyone enjoyed their day & avoided being pinched!
Happy Walking!
I love low key holidays. :)
Today was all about stretching, drinking water & getting ready for the coming week.
I am learning that the better I plan, the better the week goes.
I am tired of feeling like I am constantly running behind or not living up to my full potential (or a fuller potential than I am currently living).
I am also learning that when I wake up on time (6am), then the rest of the day runs smoother. Is that amazing?
Hope everyone enjoyed their day & avoided being pinched!
Happy Walking!
Saturday, March 16, 2013
Day 115: Picture I owe you
Here are two pictures of what I feel is the "perfect" look for me & for a favorite skirt. You can see other attempts here and here.
Both pictures were taken by my oldest. The first shot is how I prefer to wear the outfit, but on super cold days I throw and extra sweater on (the 2nd pic). Enjoy!
I don't have any jewelry on for either picture - I really don't think I need it for the 2nd picture, the lighter buttons I think is enough. In the first picture, I am happy without a necklace, but I wonder if one would tie the outfit together better. Any thoughts?
I gotta say, I don't think I take good pictures, but maybe that is because I am still getting use to how I look? I don't know. Anyway...got a ton of compliments at church on Sunday (I wore the outfit in the 2nd picture). I also felt very pretty. :)
Happy Walking!
Both pictures were taken by my oldest. The first shot is how I prefer to wear the outfit, but on super cold days I throw and extra sweater on (the 2nd pic). Enjoy!
I don't have any jewelry on for either picture - I really don't think I need it for the 2nd picture, the lighter buttons I think is enough. In the first picture, I am happy without a necklace, but I wonder if one would tie the outfit together better. Any thoughts?
I gotta say, I don't think I take good pictures, but maybe that is because I am still getting use to how I look? I don't know. Anyway...got a ton of compliments at church on Sunday (I wore the outfit in the 2nd picture). I also felt very pretty. :)
Happy Walking!
Friday, March 15, 2013
Day 114: 5 Gratitudes for Friday, 12
1. A basement & a family room completely free of bagged items - all the clothes, all the linens and all the stuff animals are cleaned & returned to their homes. Thank goodness. Now comes the not so easy part - books, papers & children's toys. Thankfully it does not have to be done over night!
2. Warmer weather. Not enough to get rid of the coats & gloves, but enough that the children could play outside for a bit, the cat is spending long stretches warming himself outside in the sun and I don't feel quite so bone cold. It is nice to know spring will come again this year!
3. The willingness of our landlady and her dad to fix the big & little things around the house for us. This week it was plumbing problems in the basement. I really wish I had the know how to fix things myself, but I am so grateful for the people who do have that knowledge & our willing to help me out! BTW, everything is fixed & the basement is dry. :)
4. Slumber parties with my youngest daughter. She loves slumber parties and this year for Christmas I gave her the gift of a monthly slumber party with mom. She loves it and I have a lot of fun.
5. The opportunity to list my gratitudes every week. The few times I have missed, my week just hasn't gone as well. I really don't think this is coincidence. Saying "thank you" seems like such a little thing to do, but somehow it has a huge impact.
Happy Walking!
2. Warmer weather. Not enough to get rid of the coats & gloves, but enough that the children could play outside for a bit, the cat is spending long stretches warming himself outside in the sun and I don't feel quite so bone cold. It is nice to know spring will come again this year!
3. The willingness of our landlady and her dad to fix the big & little things around the house for us. This week it was plumbing problems in the basement. I really wish I had the know how to fix things myself, but I am so grateful for the people who do have that knowledge & our willing to help me out! BTW, everything is fixed & the basement is dry. :)
4. Slumber parties with my youngest daughter. She loves slumber parties and this year for Christmas I gave her the gift of a monthly slumber party with mom. She loves it and I have a lot of fun.
5. The opportunity to list my gratitudes every week. The few times I have missed, my week just hasn't gone as well. I really don't think this is coincidence. Saying "thank you" seems like such a little thing to do, but somehow it has a huge impact.
Happy Walking!
Thursday, March 14, 2013
Day 113: Busy Week
This is such a busy week!
It is a good thing I force myself to get my stretches & walking in first thing in the morning because the rest of the day is just go, go, go!
I made myself take the time this week to clean all the bags of clothes, stuff animals & odds & ends down in our basement that were leftover from the bed bug war. Sadly, I still have a sun room full of stuff...but that is for another week!
I was also finally able to put Christmas away. All the bags of stuff were blocking the shelf that held the Christmas boxes. Amazing how everything interconnects!
I am so happy that the house is slowly turning back into a an inviting home instead of a prolonged garage sale.
Hopefully things will calm down this weekend to update the blog with pictures or at least a better post than "I am still busy!"
But what is really important is that my habit of walking is staying with me. Yoohoo!
Happy Walking!
It is a good thing I force myself to get my stretches & walking in first thing in the morning because the rest of the day is just go, go, go!
I made myself take the time this week to clean all the bags of clothes, stuff animals & odds & ends down in our basement that were leftover from the bed bug war. Sadly, I still have a sun room full of stuff...but that is for another week!
I was also finally able to put Christmas away. All the bags of stuff were blocking the shelf that held the Christmas boxes. Amazing how everything interconnects!
I am so happy that the house is slowly turning back into a an inviting home instead of a prolonged garage sale.
Hopefully things will calm down this weekend to update the blog with pictures or at least a better post than "I am still busy!"
But what is really important is that my habit of walking is staying with me. Yoohoo!
Happy Walking!
Wednesday, March 13, 2013
Day 112: Descriptive words
I am kind of in a grumpy mood today...not because of what is going on in my life (or my family's life), but because of the media and the world.
I don't read a lot of news or on-line articles because I can get grumpy & frustrated, but I had a few minutes to kill today...yeah, made the mistake of surfing the Internet...when am I ever going to learn?
An article I saw was talking about how certain actresses do not like being referred to as curvy or full figured because it is just another way of saying "fat". They continued to say that "curvy" and "full figured" and other descriptive words may sound like a compliment, but are really disguised insults. They also said we should be able to read & write about women without using those descriptive terms.
And now I am grumpy.
I guess I shouldn't describe myself as petite because what I am really saying is short & short is an insult. I should describe myself as small boned because what I am really saying is skinny & skinny is an insult...yeah, I know most people don't consider skinny as an insult, but I disagree.
When I was in college I weighed a mere 115lbs. Was I dieting? no. Was I working out like crazy? no. Was I starving myself? no. I ate anything and everything and I ate a ton of it. My only exercise was walking the campus for classes. My metabolism was high & I stayed skinny. Skinny enough that I had people accuse me of being anorexic and/or bulimic. I had people let me know that I had chicken legs & arms. I was told my hips were too bony. So hearing, "your so skinny" felt more like an insult than a compliment. But it was also an accurate description.
During that same time period I could have also been described as "curvy" or "full figured"...how is that possible you ask? Because I have been blessed with hips. I have hips. The hips may be currently hiding or not as pronounced because of the extra weight I carry, but those hips were there when I was 115 lbs and they will be there at whatever weight I happen to be at. I also have a large chest. It was there when I was 115lbs it will be there at whatever weight I happen to be at. And no, pregnancy & nursing did not affect my chest at all...I know it does for some women, but it doesn't for me.
Lets face it. We are all mishmash of body parts. No one has the perfect body or the perfect measurements. I will use me as an example.
I am only 5'1". I am small boned. I have a short neck. I have narrow shoulders. I have a large chest. I have a short torso (short waisted). I have hips. I have long legs. I have small feet. I have a hard time finding pants, shirts, dresses, skirts and shorts that fit me. I can never in a million years look good in the flapper look of the 20's (or any updated type styles). I look great in the 50s sweater sets (and any of its updated looks). I may admire Uma Thurman - she is tall, thin & graceful. I am built more like Salma Hayek - she is petite (short), curvy & graceful. (I don't know if I am graceful, but I do try).
Since reading the books on color & style, I have stopped using the ideal of tall & thin. I use to say I wanted to look tall & thin in the clothes that I wore. Guess what? That isn't possible. Now I say I want to look my best in my clothes. I want to be happy with all of my attributes, not just a few of them.
Have an outfit I wore Sunday that I think fits the bill, but haven't had a chance to download it yet - will do it tomorrow. Sorry! In the mean time, stop worrying about descriptive words and just love yourself & all of your attributes.
Happy Walking!
I don't read a lot of news or on-line articles because I can get grumpy & frustrated, but I had a few minutes to kill today...yeah, made the mistake of surfing the Internet...when am I ever going to learn?
An article I saw was talking about how certain actresses do not like being referred to as curvy or full figured because it is just another way of saying "fat". They continued to say that "curvy" and "full figured" and other descriptive words may sound like a compliment, but are really disguised insults. They also said we should be able to read & write about women without using those descriptive terms.
And now I am grumpy.
I guess I shouldn't describe myself as petite because what I am really saying is short & short is an insult. I should describe myself as small boned because what I am really saying is skinny & skinny is an insult...yeah, I know most people don't consider skinny as an insult, but I disagree.
When I was in college I weighed a mere 115lbs. Was I dieting? no. Was I working out like crazy? no. Was I starving myself? no. I ate anything and everything and I ate a ton of it. My only exercise was walking the campus for classes. My metabolism was high & I stayed skinny. Skinny enough that I had people accuse me of being anorexic and/or bulimic. I had people let me know that I had chicken legs & arms. I was told my hips were too bony. So hearing, "your so skinny" felt more like an insult than a compliment. But it was also an accurate description.
During that same time period I could have also been described as "curvy" or "full figured"...how is that possible you ask? Because I have been blessed with hips. I have hips. The hips may be currently hiding or not as pronounced because of the extra weight I carry, but those hips were there when I was 115 lbs and they will be there at whatever weight I happen to be at. I also have a large chest. It was there when I was 115lbs it will be there at whatever weight I happen to be at. And no, pregnancy & nursing did not affect my chest at all...I know it does for some women, but it doesn't for me.
Lets face it. We are all mishmash of body parts. No one has the perfect body or the perfect measurements. I will use me as an example.
I am only 5'1". I am small boned. I have a short neck. I have narrow shoulders. I have a large chest. I have a short torso (short waisted). I have hips. I have long legs. I have small feet. I have a hard time finding pants, shirts, dresses, skirts and shorts that fit me. I can never in a million years look good in the flapper look of the 20's (or any updated type styles). I look great in the 50s sweater sets (and any of its updated looks). I may admire Uma Thurman - she is tall, thin & graceful. I am built more like Salma Hayek - she is petite (short), curvy & graceful. (I don't know if I am graceful, but I do try).
Since reading the books on color & style, I have stopped using the ideal of tall & thin. I use to say I wanted to look tall & thin in the clothes that I wore. Guess what? That isn't possible. Now I say I want to look my best in my clothes. I want to be happy with all of my attributes, not just a few of them.
Have an outfit I wore Sunday that I think fits the bill, but haven't had a chance to download it yet - will do it tomorrow. Sorry! In the mean time, stop worrying about descriptive words and just love yourself & all of your attributes.
Happy Walking!
Tuesday, March 12, 2013
Day 111: Happily Satisfied
Sorry for another quick post...been a crazy day! I love crazy days that are also productive.
Suffice to say - I walked, I stretched, I drank water, I ate healthy & I said "I don't eat that" to the pizza, fries, cookies & ice cream that came my way (I was at a church youth activity). It felt good to say, "No thank you, I don't eat that." I didn't feel the need to elaborate nor did I feel deprived. Happily satisfied.
Happy Walking!
Suffice to say - I walked, I stretched, I drank water, I ate healthy & I said "I don't eat that" to the pizza, fries, cookies & ice cream that came my way (I was at a church youth activity). It felt good to say, "No thank you, I don't eat that." I didn't feel the need to elaborate nor did I feel deprived. Happily satisfied.
Happy Walking!
Monday, March 11, 2013
Day 110: I've got nothing..
I've got nothing tonight. No grand words, no deep insights, no stirring words.
I have a lot of sore muscles - week 2 of our family Kung Fu class...man, even practicing during the week does not help. But I know in time I will get use to use muscles I didn't even know existed. :)
I have tiredness. I really dislike daylight savings. It doesn't matter if I am falling back or springing forward...the time change just messes me up. It takes me a good 2 weeks to feel like I have adjusted.
I have a feeling of being overly full. I have felt overly full all weekend. Which is kind of weird because I am slowly dropping the "not so good for me" and adding in the "better for me". Maybe this feeling is normal?
I just don't know...and that is why I've got nothing. Well, maybe nothing - I have walked and I have stretched. I have drank lots of water and I am eating better. So, I got that...
Happy Walking!
I have a lot of sore muscles - week 2 of our family Kung Fu class...man, even practicing during the week does not help. But I know in time I will get use to use muscles I didn't even know existed. :)
I have tiredness. I really dislike daylight savings. It doesn't matter if I am falling back or springing forward...the time change just messes me up. It takes me a good 2 weeks to feel like I have adjusted.
I have a feeling of being overly full. I have felt overly full all weekend. Which is kind of weird because I am slowly dropping the "not so good for me" and adding in the "better for me". Maybe this feeling is normal?
I just don't know...and that is why I've got nothing. Well, maybe nothing - I have walked and I have stretched. I have drank lots of water and I am eating better. So, I got that...
Happy Walking!
Sunday, March 10, 2013
Day 109: Another attempt...
Here is a different outfit - same skirt, but different top. This outfit is nice because it is simple & comfortable - all over comfort. It probably needed a better necklace, the one I chose is too delicate (I think). But even so...I am not sure the top is the perfect fit for the skirt. The color is, I don't know, off? Not badly, it looks okay...I just don't think it is a "wow" kind of match.
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| Picture by S. |
Saturday, March 9, 2013
Day 108: Can't or Don't
There are many ways to think of things, specifically changes, but I want to focus on "can't" and "don't".
I am normally in the "can't" camp. I can't stay up late because I am just to grouchy the next morning. I can't eat pizza because my body gets to gassy (don't you just love full disclosure blogs?), I can't watch horror movies because they scare me so badly I have nightmares for weeks (just love being a scardy cat!)...well, you get the idea.
Recently I read an article (I think it was in Prevention) that when we are dieting we should say "don't" instead of "can't". The article stated that when we use the word "can't" it sets us up for failure because from the very beginning we feel deprived. The article suggests that if we use the word don't...as in "I don't eat chocolate" then we do not feel deprived, but empowered. We are simply making a statement about a choice.
I think I agree with this. When I say I can't eat pizza (which I have been saying for the last few years) I find I really have a hard time leaving the pizza alone. Normally when I can't control an impulse (like eating way to many chips) I simply ban the offending food from the house. This works pretty good. Not so good with pizza because that is every one's favorite food for our Friday night family movies.
This week I said all day long to myself & to anyone who would listen, "I don't eat pizza". I happily was able to avoid the pizza and had a sandwich instead. I am going to use the "don't" trick more and see if that doesn't help me with some of my food choices.
Now to convince myself that I don't stay up late!
I am normally in the "can't" camp. I can't stay up late because I am just to grouchy the next morning. I can't eat pizza because my body gets to gassy (don't you just love full disclosure blogs?), I can't watch horror movies because they scare me so badly I have nightmares for weeks (just love being a scardy cat!)...well, you get the idea.
Recently I read an article (I think it was in Prevention) that when we are dieting we should say "don't" instead of "can't". The article stated that when we use the word "can't" it sets us up for failure because from the very beginning we feel deprived. The article suggests that if we use the word don't...as in "I don't eat chocolate" then we do not feel deprived, but empowered. We are simply making a statement about a choice.
I think I agree with this. When I say I can't eat pizza (which I have been saying for the last few years) I find I really have a hard time leaving the pizza alone. Normally when I can't control an impulse (like eating way to many chips) I simply ban the offending food from the house. This works pretty good. Not so good with pizza because that is every one's favorite food for our Friday night family movies.
This week I said all day long to myself & to anyone who would listen, "I don't eat pizza". I happily was able to avoid the pizza and had a sandwich instead. I am going to use the "don't" trick more and see if that doesn't help me with some of my food choices.
Now to convince myself that I don't stay up late!
Friday, March 8, 2013
Day 107: 5 Gratitudes for Friday, 11
1 - Play Dates! I just love it when the children can get together with their friends and spend an afternoon playing. It just doesn't happen often enough, but it sure is wonderful when it does. The children run off energy, their creative juices start flowing...it is like a little shot of "yoohoo" - I mean, the children can be feeling sick, bored, lonely, tired, frustrated...and then the play date happens & they are rejuvenated. Maybe that is the secret elixir I should attempt to bottle to make millions...hmmmm...
2 - Grown up conversations. Do you know how much I miss grown up conversations? Sometimes I think I have forgotten how to carry on a conversation. When the children were super little it was hard because have the time I couldn't understand them. Now it is hard because I never get a word in edge wise...and, as much as I love my children, their ideas, etc... they can talk and talk and talk and talk and talk and talk and talk...I miss grown up conversations. One of the perks of visiting friends is the opportunity to have grown up conversations. I love it when I can take advantage of that opportunity. Let's see, today, I have discussed the ups & downs to boys, oldest children, 12 year olds, the lack of modest dresses for young girls, an app called "the closet" (I so can't wait to try it out!), learning a little bit more about what makes mid-westerners tick, the ups & downs of being a mom, realizing that everyone has to rediscover who they are...well, you get the idea...it was good grown up conversation.
3 - Warmer weather...no, not in the 60s or 70s, I am talking in the 40s! The sun was shining, I could wear my winter coat & gloves & be warm (normally I am still shivering from the cold), the children could actually play for an hour outside before getting too cold. Ah, the hope of spring was in the air today!
4 - The pleasant surprise of a good movie. We have family movie night every Friday night. Tonight we took a chance on "John Carter" for two reasons. 1 - because someone (I can't remember who) said it was really well done & I should see it. 2 - because my friend, Ashlee, did a post about the John Carter book series. The movie was so much better than the previews looked - it was a lot a fun. The children and I are going to look for the book series as well.
5 - Being happy, joyful and at peace the majority of my days. When I started this journey back in November, I was still struggling with the lingering effects of depression. I knew I was better, but not back to being myself. Today, I can honestly say, that I feel like myself. I still have my moments of frustration, sadness or what have you, but it is within "normal" ranges. I don't know, I can feel a difference and I like it. I like the direction I am headed and I am not so worried about getting to the end...and that is a good thing.
2 - Grown up conversations. Do you know how much I miss grown up conversations? Sometimes I think I have forgotten how to carry on a conversation. When the children were super little it was hard because have the time I couldn't understand them. Now it is hard because I never get a word in edge wise...and, as much as I love my children, their ideas, etc... they can talk and talk and talk and talk and talk and talk and talk...I miss grown up conversations. One of the perks of visiting friends is the opportunity to have grown up conversations. I love it when I can take advantage of that opportunity. Let's see, today, I have discussed the ups & downs to boys, oldest children, 12 year olds, the lack of modest dresses for young girls, an app called "the closet" (I so can't wait to try it out!), learning a little bit more about what makes mid-westerners tick, the ups & downs of being a mom, realizing that everyone has to rediscover who they are...well, you get the idea...it was good grown up conversation.
3 - Warmer weather...no, not in the 60s or 70s, I am talking in the 40s! The sun was shining, I could wear my winter coat & gloves & be warm (normally I am still shivering from the cold), the children could actually play for an hour outside before getting too cold. Ah, the hope of spring was in the air today!
4 - The pleasant surprise of a good movie. We have family movie night every Friday night. Tonight we took a chance on "John Carter" for two reasons. 1 - because someone (I can't remember who) said it was really well done & I should see it. 2 - because my friend, Ashlee, did a post about the John Carter book series. The movie was so much better than the previews looked - it was a lot a fun. The children and I are going to look for the book series as well.
5 - Being happy, joyful and at peace the majority of my days. When I started this journey back in November, I was still struggling with the lingering effects of depression. I knew I was better, but not back to being myself. Today, I can honestly say, that I feel like myself. I still have my moments of frustration, sadness or what have you, but it is within "normal" ranges. I don't know, I can feel a difference and I like it. I like the direction I am headed and I am not so worried about getting to the end...and that is a good thing.
Thursday, March 7, 2013
Day 106: Woohoo!
Just a quick update tonight.
Thanks to all the advice on the dress issue.
I chose to try the dress on - it fit perfect! Such a relief that I don't have to lose weight to wear it.
On a side note...I took K out Easter dress shopping tonight (her request). She looked so grown up trying on all the different dresses. I had a moment of missing my "baby girl", but at the same time I really enjoyed shopping with my daughter. Funny how that works!
Happy Walking!
Thanks to all the advice on the dress issue.
I chose to try the dress on - it fit perfect! Such a relief that I don't have to lose weight to wear it.
On a side note...I took K out Easter dress shopping tonight (her request). She looked so grown up trying on all the different dresses. I had a moment of missing my "baby girl", but at the same time I really enjoyed shopping with my daughter. Funny how that works!
Happy Walking!
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
Day 105: Dangerous Curves?
Steve and I had our 15 year anniversary recently, but we will not be celebrating it until the end of April when Jackie, my mother-in-law, comes out to visit. Her present to us this year is her visit & giving us a couple of days free of children.
We have some plans to spend a couple of days in Chicago - go to a play, eat out, check out the sites. It should be a really nice way to celebrate our 15 years together.
The problem? Well, none really, except I find myself wondering how much weight I can lose between now and the end of April. Up to this point my entire goal was just to walk & enjoy the journey. Now? I want to try on one of my favorite dresses (that I haven't worn in years) & figure out if I need to lose weight to wear it comfortably for the play.
Ugh! I am really kind of frustrated with myself.
Is this a good turn for the journey? Is this a possible derailment? And how does trying to get "skinny" go with the new found knowledge that I need to accept me as me?
Maybe I should just go buy a new outfit...but I really hate spending money on something as I see as silly....is wanting to look nice for my anniversary weekend being silly?
Chime in - I need the feed back on this one!
So far, I am resisting the urge to weigh myself or try on the dress.
I do have a great pair of shoes that I bought a couple of years ago & have only worn once - those are going with me!!!
Happy Walking!
We have some plans to spend a couple of days in Chicago - go to a play, eat out, check out the sites. It should be a really nice way to celebrate our 15 years together.
The problem? Well, none really, except I find myself wondering how much weight I can lose between now and the end of April. Up to this point my entire goal was just to walk & enjoy the journey. Now? I want to try on one of my favorite dresses (that I haven't worn in years) & figure out if I need to lose weight to wear it comfortably for the play.
Ugh! I am really kind of frustrated with myself.
Is this a good turn for the journey? Is this a possible derailment? And how does trying to get "skinny" go with the new found knowledge that I need to accept me as me?
Maybe I should just go buy a new outfit...but I really hate spending money on something as I see as silly....is wanting to look nice for my anniversary weekend being silly?
Chime in - I need the feed back on this one!
So far, I am resisting the urge to weigh myself or try on the dress.
I do have a great pair of shoes that I bought a couple of years ago & have only worn once - those are going with me!!!
Happy Walking!
Tuesday, March 5, 2013
Day 104: The three S's
Sleep! Sore! Snow!
I slept so good last night - too good actually, I slept in. I try not to beat myself up too much for sleeping in - I don't do it very often.
I also woke up a little sore, but as the day has wore on I have become extremely sore - in my shoulders. The first stance in our Kung Fu class was a punching stance. We were told we should practice our punches every day - in the beginning try to get in 200-300 gradually increasing to 500-1,000. Yeah, I am sore!
It is snowing again!
Here is a picture of my son shoveling snow. The picture was not taken today, but it was fairly recent. We have had a lot of snow these last few weeks...makes me wonder if the groundhog was perhaps wrong this year. :)
I slept so good last night - too good actually, I slept in. I try not to beat myself up too much for sleeping in - I don't do it very often.
I also woke up a little sore, but as the day has wore on I have become extremely sore - in my shoulders. The first stance in our Kung Fu class was a punching stance. We were told we should practice our punches every day - in the beginning try to get in 200-300 gradually increasing to 500-1,000. Yeah, I am sore!
It is snowing again!
Here is a picture of my son shoveling snow. The picture was not taken today, but it was fairly recent. We have had a lot of snow these last few weeks...makes me wonder if the groundhog was perhaps wrong this year. :)
Monday, March 4, 2013
Day 103: A New Twist
Life's journey is never a straight path, it is always full of twists and turns.
My new twist is a martial arts class. Steve thought it would be fun if the entire family took a martial arts class together - tonight was our first class.
I am soooo sore and all we did was learn how to stand & punch!
Everyone seemed to enjoy it. I am actually excited to learn how to punch correctly!
Here is the classes website.
Happy Walking!
My new twist is a martial arts class. Steve thought it would be fun if the entire family took a martial arts class together - tonight was our first class.
I am soooo sore and all we did was learn how to stand & punch!
Everyone seemed to enjoy it. I am actually excited to learn how to punch correctly!
Here is the classes website.
Happy Walking!
Sunday, March 3, 2013
Day 102: Welcomed Service
My children recently learned at church that service and love go hand in hand. The teacher taught them that when we love someone we want to serve them and when we serve someone we grow to love them.
I have been pondering this...
Do I love the area (church, neighborhood, etc.) I am at because I instantly make friends or do I love the area because I have served in some capacity?
I think it is a little bit of both. And in many cases, the love and service have happened very close together.
I also think service is a state of mind/heart. Do I do something begrudgingly or do I help out willingly and happily?
I am very thankful for the times others have helped me. And I am thankful the times I can help others.
I am also very aware that I can only perform a service when my children are either helping me out or my husband is holding down the fort.
Service is like a chain....it takes a lot of links of help to get the actual job done.
I have been pondering this...
Do I love the area (church, neighborhood, etc.) I am at because I instantly make friends or do I love the area because I have served in some capacity?
I think it is a little bit of both. And in many cases, the love and service have happened very close together.
I also think service is a state of mind/heart. Do I do something begrudgingly or do I help out willingly and happily?
I am very thankful for the times others have helped me. And I am thankful the times I can help others.
I am also very aware that I can only perform a service when my children are either helping me out or my husband is holding down the fort.
Service is like a chain....it takes a lot of links of help to get the actual job done.
Saturday, March 2, 2013
Day 101: A night out
Steve & I had one of our rare outings - we had dinner with friends. It was so very nice eating at a "grown up" restaurant & participating in adult conversation.
I got the stamp of approval from my oldest on what I chose to wore. She said it was a good mix between church & every day.
I thought I looked good, but more importantly I felt good @ how I looked!
I got the stamp of approval from my oldest on what I chose to wore. She said it was a good mix between church & every day.
I thought I looked good, but more importantly I felt good @ how I looked!
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| Picture by K |
Friday, March 1, 2013
Day 100: 5 Gratitudes for Friday, 10
Sorry, I forgot last week!
1 - Snow...yes, it is cold & wet. yes, it is a pain to shovel. yes, it is sometimes even hard (& dangerous) to drive in/on. Yet, there is something magical about a landscape covered with newly fallen snow. We recently had a snow storm & the trees looked as if they had grown white leaves...it was so beautiful. When we drove to a cub scout activity the other night, the town still awashed in fresh snow looked like Normal Rockwell scene....amazing.
Here is my humble attempt at capturing it:
2 - Walking with friends. I love walking with my children, but it is equally wonderful walking with friends. It actually makes for a good mix throughout the week and I find myself not getting bored or frustrated.
3 - Discovering friends with similar interests! This past week I have talked about my little adventure into learning about myself and choosing to do more with my personal style. I discovered recently that a friend from church underwent a similar journey last year and has offered to help/support me during my journey.
4 - Library reading day. I love this day! The children and I spend a couple of hours reading books. What is even more amazing (and I am so happy about) is that my son is the one who requests this day the most. He may not be reading very much yet, but he loves the library, finding books to read/look at and our library reading days. It is one of the best days out of the week.
5 - The local dry cleaners remembering my name. I know that may seem silly, but it really pleases me that I am remembered. I sometimes feel that I am a very good wall flower & somewhat forgettable - probably my insecurities speaking more than anything....so when a place of business remembers me, it always makes my day.
1 - Snow...yes, it is cold & wet. yes, it is a pain to shovel. yes, it is sometimes even hard (& dangerous) to drive in/on. Yet, there is something magical about a landscape covered with newly fallen snow. We recently had a snow storm & the trees looked as if they had grown white leaves...it was so beautiful. When we drove to a cub scout activity the other night, the town still awashed in fresh snow looked like Normal Rockwell scene....amazing.
Here is my humble attempt at capturing it:
2 - Walking with friends. I love walking with my children, but it is equally wonderful walking with friends. It actually makes for a good mix throughout the week and I find myself not getting bored or frustrated.
3 - Discovering friends with similar interests! This past week I have talked about my little adventure into learning about myself and choosing to do more with my personal style. I discovered recently that a friend from church underwent a similar journey last year and has offered to help/support me during my journey.
4 - Library reading day. I love this day! The children and I spend a couple of hours reading books. What is even more amazing (and I am so happy about) is that my son is the one who requests this day the most. He may not be reading very much yet, but he loves the library, finding books to read/look at and our library reading days. It is one of the best days out of the week.
5 - The local dry cleaners remembering my name. I know that may seem silly, but it really pleases me that I am remembered. I sometimes feel that I am a very good wall flower & somewhat forgettable - probably my insecurities speaking more than anything....so when a place of business remembers me, it always makes my day.
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