I'm tired tonight, but it is a good tired. I really pushed myself when I walked - I didn't want to, but I did. I would much rather be tired for working out hard than tired because I did nothing all day!
Still super busy, but will give better updates soon.
Happy Walking!
Tuesday, April 30, 2013
Monday, April 29, 2013
Day 159: Renewed drive
I am sure I have talked about this before, but it is so easyto get into slumps when walking. Yes, I have been walking every day, but I have noticed my intensity changes.
Obviously, when I am sick I am not walking as intense...but it seems so hard to get the mojo back again. Today, as I walked, I was very irritated with myself and with the children for the speed of the walk - I wanted to be walking faster, but couldn't.
That's when it hit me - I haven't been pushing myself as hard as I should have been. How long has this been going on? Who knows! I think the good thing is I noticed it and am correcting it.
I don't know if there is any way (magical or otherwise) to deal with slumps...so, I will renew my drive and hope to avoid (or at least shorten) the next slump!
Happy Walking!
Obviously, when I am sick I am not walking as intense...but it seems so hard to get the mojo back again. Today, as I walked, I was very irritated with myself and with the children for the speed of the walk - I wanted to be walking faster, but couldn't.
That's when it hit me - I haven't been pushing myself as hard as I should have been. How long has this been going on? Who knows! I think the good thing is I noticed it and am correcting it.
I don't know if there is any way (magical or otherwise) to deal with slumps...so, I will renew my drive and hope to avoid (or at least shorten) the next slump!
Happy Walking!
Sunday, April 28, 2013
Day 158: Spring time debate
So....love spring, not loving the "is it a cold or allergies" debate that comes with spring.
I never had allergies as a child. It really isn't any fun.
And then, when you do have allergies, but also get hit with a cold - what kind of medicine do you take? This has often baffled me.
Well, despite this current debate, I am determined to enjoy spring as much as possible - the winter was much too long & cold for my liking.
Happy Walking!
I never had allergies as a child. It really isn't any fun.
And then, when you do have allergies, but also get hit with a cold - what kind of medicine do you take? This has often baffled me.
Well, despite this current debate, I am determined to enjoy spring as much as possible - the winter was much too long & cold for my liking.
Happy Walking!
Saturday, April 27, 2013
Day 157: Spring
Got out and enjoyed the gorgeous weather we are currently having.
Don't you just wish spring could last forever?
Happy Walking!
Don't you just wish spring could last forever?
Happy Walking!
Friday, April 26, 2013
Day 156: 5 Gratitudes for Friday, 18
1. A wonderful husband that knows me so well. I love that.
2. Treated to new experiences...even spoiled a bit. :)
3. Parents who love us and love our children.
4. Compliments on how I look - especially in a favorite dress.
5. Catchy tunes & lots of laughter.
2. Treated to new experiences...even spoiled a bit. :)
3. Parents who love us and love our children.
4. Compliments on how I look - especially in a favorite dress.
5. Catchy tunes & lots of laughter.
Thursday, April 25, 2013
Day 155: Gorgeous Day!
It was a gorgeous day! Tons of sun...and the flowers are just popping up every where! The trees are even starting to bloom!
Happy Walking!
Happy Walking!
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
Day 154: Notice
Just wanted to give everyone the official word that I am going to be super busy the next 2 weeks with the family. I will attempt to post everyday - in fact it is my goal to walk & post everyday; however, if I have to drop something it will be posting. Not walking is Not an option!
Hope everyone is enjoying the spring weather!
Happy Walking!
Hope everyone is enjoying the spring weather!
Happy Walking!
Tuesday, April 23, 2013
Day 153: Rainbow challege
I gotta tell you I love the eat a rainbow in a week challenge I have going on with my children.
I have noticed that my fruit/veggie intake has gone up. I have noticed that my children are eating a variety (and enjoying it)!
What was really cool was today as we made out the grocery shopping list - all the children checked to see what colors we were missing & then named the fruit/veggie they would like to fill the color void.
Very, very, very cool.
Now, if I could just get my husband to join the challenge...
Happy Walking!
I have noticed that my fruit/veggie intake has gone up. I have noticed that my children are eating a variety (and enjoying it)!
What was really cool was today as we made out the grocery shopping list - all the children checked to see what colors we were missing & then named the fruit/veggie they would like to fill the color void.
Very, very, very cool.
Now, if I could just get my husband to join the challenge...
Happy Walking!
Monday, April 22, 2013
Day 152: Could I have my own script writer?
I think we all have days where we just feel blah or not as happy with our looks/body...that was my day today.
More than likely it came from being up a little to late last night and working all day - not the normal schedule, the "someone is coming to visit & I want my house to look better than it really does" schedule. Seriously, I need to get over that!
But I digress. Spent all days in my sports bra & sweats - not the best combination for feeling (or looking) my best.
What's more, for some reason, I mentally obsessed over my body & all its flaws. Not the best thing to do either. I am sure that came from the fact that I started off mentally packing for my up coming Chicago trip...which turned into a "everything is wrong with me" tirade. Trust me, this was all in my head so my children didn't have a clue...thank goodness.
I even ended up on some site that talked about which celebrities have had plastic surgery...not really sure how I got there, but there I was - shocked to learn which ones have had nose jobs.
So this got me thinking - no, not about a nose job. Heck, I am to chicken to get laser eye surgery (even though I would love to not wear glasses) - no way I am getting a nose job or any other form of plastic surgery! But what did get me thinking is how incredibly hard it is as a person to accept ourselves.
I mean, this is why Carol Tuttle's Dress Your Truth and Stacy London & Clinton Kelly's What Not To Wear are so dang popular. So many of us relate to the women who are featured in before & after photos or in the t.v. show - all of us, regardless of age, money and dress standards (as in how fashionable we are) - want to look our best, we want to look beautiful, be beautiful, feel beautiful.
Even before the dawn of television & movies, women beat themselves up. Yeah, we like to think there was a golden age where times were simple and people accepted themselves for who they were...not true. I am not going to attempt to do a history lesson, but women (and men) through out the ages have tried beauty treatments (& who knows what else) all in the vain attempt to be young & beautiful.
I mean this is not a modern day problem, it is just a problem. It would be nice to just shout "Stop It"! I don't it would work, because it doesn't always work on me.
Do I start wearing make up? Do I do extreme dieting and/or exercise? Do I follow every new fad to help me be my best?
Well, obviously, the answer is no.
The answer is what I have said all along - true beauty comes from within. We must love ourselves and accept ourselves for who we are and where we are at - and that comes from within. We must spend time every day with God & be reminded that we are His children.
So much easier to write that sentence than to actually do it.
So much easier to stare in the mirror & wonder why I still break out, why my breasts sag & why I can't lose weight as fast as I want (as in lose all 20 lbs by tomorrow morning)...and why I can't get a hair cut or put on a new outfit and look like someone else?!?!!!!
Don't get me wrong. I do love myself...just sometimes I wish I had a make up artist, and a photo shop artist, and the proper lighting on me at all times. I wish I knew what my best side was so I only showed that to the world. Heck, if we are dreaming, I wish I had a script writer so I always had the best answer & the day always ended on a perfect note.
But life doesn't work that way...so I will keep walking. I will keep trying on outfits & ask for feedback (the feed back helps soooo much!). I will keep finding ways to improve my eating habits. I will even find a way to go to bed on time & turn off the dang television...maybe even learn to limit my internet use. Hmmm.....that might be a good thing since I wasted too much time learning which stars had their nose done....
Happy Walking!
More than likely it came from being up a little to late last night and working all day - not the normal schedule, the "someone is coming to visit & I want my house to look better than it really does" schedule. Seriously, I need to get over that!
But I digress. Spent all days in my sports bra & sweats - not the best combination for feeling (or looking) my best.
What's more, for some reason, I mentally obsessed over my body & all its flaws. Not the best thing to do either. I am sure that came from the fact that I started off mentally packing for my up coming Chicago trip...which turned into a "everything is wrong with me" tirade. Trust me, this was all in my head so my children didn't have a clue...thank goodness.
I even ended up on some site that talked about which celebrities have had plastic surgery...not really sure how I got there, but there I was - shocked to learn which ones have had nose jobs.
So this got me thinking - no, not about a nose job. Heck, I am to chicken to get laser eye surgery (even though I would love to not wear glasses) - no way I am getting a nose job or any other form of plastic surgery! But what did get me thinking is how incredibly hard it is as a person to accept ourselves.
I mean, this is why Carol Tuttle's Dress Your Truth and Stacy London & Clinton Kelly's What Not To Wear are so dang popular. So many of us relate to the women who are featured in before & after photos or in the t.v. show - all of us, regardless of age, money and dress standards (as in how fashionable we are) - want to look our best, we want to look beautiful, be beautiful, feel beautiful.
Even before the dawn of television & movies, women beat themselves up. Yeah, we like to think there was a golden age where times were simple and people accepted themselves for who they were...not true. I am not going to attempt to do a history lesson, but women (and men) through out the ages have tried beauty treatments (& who knows what else) all in the vain attempt to be young & beautiful.
I mean this is not a modern day problem, it is just a problem. It would be nice to just shout "Stop It"! I don't it would work, because it doesn't always work on me.
Do I start wearing make up? Do I do extreme dieting and/or exercise? Do I follow every new fad to help me be my best?
Well, obviously, the answer is no.
The answer is what I have said all along - true beauty comes from within. We must love ourselves and accept ourselves for who we are and where we are at - and that comes from within. We must spend time every day with God & be reminded that we are His children.
So much easier to write that sentence than to actually do it.
So much easier to stare in the mirror & wonder why I still break out, why my breasts sag & why I can't lose weight as fast as I want (as in lose all 20 lbs by tomorrow morning)...and why I can't get a hair cut or put on a new outfit and look like someone else?!?!!!!
Don't get me wrong. I do love myself...just sometimes I wish I had a make up artist, and a photo shop artist, and the proper lighting on me at all times. I wish I knew what my best side was so I only showed that to the world. Heck, if we are dreaming, I wish I had a script writer so I always had the best answer & the day always ended on a perfect note.
But life doesn't work that way...so I will keep walking. I will keep trying on outfits & ask for feedback (the feed back helps soooo much!). I will keep finding ways to improve my eating habits. I will even find a way to go to bed on time & turn off the dang television...maybe even learn to limit my internet use. Hmmm.....that might be a good thing since I wasted too much time learning which stars had their nose done....
Happy Walking!
Sunday, April 21, 2013
Day 151: Enduring to the end....
Sometimes you write a post at 11pm because you need to keep the habit, and sometimes you need to keep the habit because you are scared that missing one day will snowball into missing more than just writing a post....like missing something really important like walking.
I'm still walking, but with so much going on, I am once again being reminded how important it is to stay strong, stay committed, stay determined.
Huh, I guess that's what endure to the end means...never thought of it that way before, but really, how can I stay strong in my personal convictions - be it spiritual, ethical or moral if those convictions are not constantly tested? Kind of like testing a frozen river to ensure there is no thin ice.
Huh, and here I was all kinds of "down on me" for once again struggling with something so simple as the desire to walk & post about it.
Maybe, just maybe, I passed this test for enduring to the end...who knows how many more will come my way, but I suppose that is part of the journey too.
Happy Walking!
I'm still walking, but with so much going on, I am once again being reminded how important it is to stay strong, stay committed, stay determined.
Huh, I guess that's what endure to the end means...never thought of it that way before, but really, how can I stay strong in my personal convictions - be it spiritual, ethical or moral if those convictions are not constantly tested? Kind of like testing a frozen river to ensure there is no thin ice.
Huh, and here I was all kinds of "down on me" for once again struggling with something so simple as the desire to walk & post about it.
Maybe, just maybe, I passed this test for enduring to the end...who knows how many more will come my way, but I suppose that is part of the journey too.
Happy Walking!
Saturday, April 20, 2013
Day 150: More Gratitude?
So, I woke up this morning ready to conquer the world...or at least my house, my habits & anything else I could think of.
I did pretty good too - I got the majority of the house picked up & straightened (so much so that Steve and my son exclaimed at the difference when they got home from running errands). I got several loads of laundry done. I even managed to cook a pretty good dinner. Between Steve and I we have a pretty good portion of the basement carpet dried out and cleaned (and boy did it need it!).
Then, just when I thought it was safe to sigh in relief...Steve noticed water running down the wall in our first floor bathroom; which happens to be directly under the 2nd floor bathroom. I happened to be taking a shower at the time. Sigh.
So, a part of me wants to scream in frustration - my mother-in-law is coming for a visit & I am not sure we will have the problem fixed in time. Another part of me is so thankful for a flooded basement. Why? Well, Steve is not usually on the first floor bathroom while I am showering, but tonight because he is working in the basement he was running up & down the stairs a lot which caused him to go past the 1st floor bathroom and thus seeing the mess my shower was creating.
So yeah, thankful for a flooded basement. Thankful my husband was in the right place at the right time. Thankful that every time something busts in the basement our friend, Chris, is away on a trip - makes it so much easier to fix the problems when he is not living down there.
But I would really be more thankful if the problems would kind of stop & just go away. :) I guess with a house that was built in 1925, that is not going to happen - I mean we are like, what, 12 years away from this house being a 100 years old? I have also lost all "romantic" notions about living in an old house instead of a new build. :)
Ah well, just another day in the journey of life!
Happy Walking!
I did pretty good too - I got the majority of the house picked up & straightened (so much so that Steve and my son exclaimed at the difference when they got home from running errands). I got several loads of laundry done. I even managed to cook a pretty good dinner. Between Steve and I we have a pretty good portion of the basement carpet dried out and cleaned (and boy did it need it!).
Then, just when I thought it was safe to sigh in relief...Steve noticed water running down the wall in our first floor bathroom; which happens to be directly under the 2nd floor bathroom. I happened to be taking a shower at the time. Sigh.
So, a part of me wants to scream in frustration - my mother-in-law is coming for a visit & I am not sure we will have the problem fixed in time. Another part of me is so thankful for a flooded basement. Why? Well, Steve is not usually on the first floor bathroom while I am showering, but tonight because he is working in the basement he was running up & down the stairs a lot which caused him to go past the 1st floor bathroom and thus seeing the mess my shower was creating.
So yeah, thankful for a flooded basement. Thankful my husband was in the right place at the right time. Thankful that every time something busts in the basement our friend, Chris, is away on a trip - makes it so much easier to fix the problems when he is not living down there.
But I would really be more thankful if the problems would kind of stop & just go away. :) I guess with a house that was built in 1925, that is not going to happen - I mean we are like, what, 12 years away from this house being a 100 years old? I have also lost all "romantic" notions about living in an old house instead of a new build. :)
Ah well, just another day in the journey of life!
Happy Walking!
Friday, April 19, 2013
Day 149: 5 Gratitudes for Friday, 17
1. My husband noticed my current computer is slowly dying the death that all computers must eventually die - so he bought me a new one. I am cautiously excited (I don't enjoy change); however, I am so grateful that my husband was thinking of me & "slaying my dragon". He is good guy.
2. A week of intense reading with my children. We had 2 books that were due at the library today, but still had halfway to go in both of them. So, we did marathon reading every day this week. It is not something we do very often but I really enjoy it. It is easy, comfortable and my preferred way to read a story!
3. We had a lot of rain this week. Since spending time in Arizona and seeing what a dry spring/summer did to the local farmers last summer, I appreciate a good rain. Actually, since I was a little girl living in Bellevue, Washington, I have always loved the rain. I have passed this love on to my children - they frequently go outside to play in the rain. So, mainly I am happy for the rain, but I am also grateful that when our basement flooded due to the rain that it was a small rain & nothing important was damaged. We have a lot of wet carpet - we have small heaters blowing on them, but nothing major damaged. I suppose I will have to worry about mold & mildew, but not sure what to do about it. Any ideas?
4. That I found a truly clever way to motivate my son in the reading area. I don't want to jinx myself because we will be starting this weekend, but Steve is 100% on board, Z is ecstatic to get going and I am happy because it helps put the responsibility squarely on Z's shoulders (where it belongs!).
5. For slowly making changes & improvements to organization of our home. About once a week, I pick an area that needs work - I still get a thrill seeing what I have already accomplished.
2. A week of intense reading with my children. We had 2 books that were due at the library today, but still had halfway to go in both of them. So, we did marathon reading every day this week. It is not something we do very often but I really enjoy it. It is easy, comfortable and my preferred way to read a story!
3. We had a lot of rain this week. Since spending time in Arizona and seeing what a dry spring/summer did to the local farmers last summer, I appreciate a good rain. Actually, since I was a little girl living in Bellevue, Washington, I have always loved the rain. I have passed this love on to my children - they frequently go outside to play in the rain. So, mainly I am happy for the rain, but I am also grateful that when our basement flooded due to the rain that it was a small rain & nothing important was damaged. We have a lot of wet carpet - we have small heaters blowing on them, but nothing major damaged. I suppose I will have to worry about mold & mildew, but not sure what to do about it. Any ideas?
4. That I found a truly clever way to motivate my son in the reading area. I don't want to jinx myself because we will be starting this weekend, but Steve is 100% on board, Z is ecstatic to get going and I am happy because it helps put the responsibility squarely on Z's shoulders (where it belongs!).
5. For slowly making changes & improvements to organization of our home. About once a week, I pick an area that needs work - I still get a thrill seeing what I have already accomplished.
Thursday, April 18, 2013
Day 148: Tired, but happy
Quick post tonight.
Just got home.
Spent the evening helping some friends put together copies of my Christmas and Easter book. It was a much bigger project than I realized. But spending time with friends was wonderful - always so good to laugh & chat.
Happy Walking!
Just got home.
Spent the evening helping some friends put together copies of my Christmas and Easter book. It was a much bigger project than I realized. But spending time with friends was wonderful - always so good to laugh & chat.
Happy Walking!
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
Day 147: Enlisting the children again
I always struggle to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables. I very easily can get into a food rut.
Breakfast is either oatmeal or cheerios with peaches or pears.
Snack is either yogurt & raisin bran or string cheese & an apple.
Lunch & dinner varies, but lunch is usually leftovers of dinner, which isn't a big deal except I usually pick carrots, peas or corn for the vegetable.
I do try to eat a salad, but I am not always consistent with that either.
I know the "experts" say to eat a rainbow - pick a different fruit or vegetable from every color, every day. I decided that the children and I should start a little smaller - we would attempt to eat a rainbow in a week.
The children were very excited about this idea. My son even made a chart so we can keep track which colors we have eaten. We have also decided that juice does not count toward our rainbow count.
I think it will be fun to see how I eat a rainbow each week...and hopefully the happy side benefit will be everyone in the family will start eating more fruits & veggies!
Happy Walking!
Breakfast is either oatmeal or cheerios with peaches or pears.
Snack is either yogurt & raisin bran or string cheese & an apple.
Lunch & dinner varies, but lunch is usually leftovers of dinner, which isn't a big deal except I usually pick carrots, peas or corn for the vegetable.
I do try to eat a salad, but I am not always consistent with that either.
I know the "experts" say to eat a rainbow - pick a different fruit or vegetable from every color, every day. I decided that the children and I should start a little smaller - we would attempt to eat a rainbow in a week.
The children were very excited about this idea. My son even made a chart so we can keep track which colors we have eaten. We have also decided that juice does not count toward our rainbow count.
I think it will be fun to see how I eat a rainbow each week...and hopefully the happy side benefit will be everyone in the family will start eating more fruits & veggies!
Happy Walking!
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
Day 146: Black = curvy?
 |
| photo taken by S |
I can't remember, but I think I wrote a post about wearing a black top that brought me "down" by the end of the day...I should really find that post & put a link, but I am feeling lazy. Sorry.
Anyway, awhile back I was in a mood to feel curvy. Usually I want to feel pretty, but this day I wanted to feel curvy...sexy.
This is what I came up with. I don't remember how I felt at the end of the day - it was a crazy day where we ended up with a freak snow storm, so I actually wished I had worn something warmer!
Anyway, looking at this picture, I realize that I might have felt curvy, but that might not be what I was actually "looking like" - if that makes sense.
I am also starting to "see" that black is not the best color to help me "look" curvy. I actually this outfit did it better:
I don't know...what do you think?
Happy Walking!
Monday, April 15, 2013
Day 145: Jumbled Mess
My mind is a jumbled mess - thoughts going in so many different directions.
I have the happy/excited thoughts of my up coming trip to Chicago.
I have the satisfied thoughts of a job well done today - the children & I went outside to walk, run & ride bikes (everyone chose their mode of exercise).
I have the "a-ha" thoughts from my Kung Fu class where the logic of a certain step finally got through my thick skull.
I have the "working overtime/hope it all comes together" thoughts for a project that I am in charge of & which is due this Thursday.
And I have the "what the heck is wrong with this world thoughts" as I vainly attempt to NOT think about the Boston explosions.
My heart aches for the victims and their families. But my temper also boils at the person/people who could have done something so awful...but as I wonder why, I also wonder if this is the end or the beginning to a very bloody summer.
Doesn't it seem as if there has steadily been an increase to violent acts lately? or at least an increase to the media's coverage of violent acts - specifically ones committed by guns?
I don't want to turn this into a political post.
I just have a jumbled mind and I am trying to unjumble it.
Everything I have typed (and erased) for the last 5 minutes has sounded like I am either preaching, bragging or whining! Jumbled thoughts in deed.
I hope everyone is safe tonight and feel loved.
Happy Walking!
I have the happy/excited thoughts of my up coming trip to Chicago.
I have the satisfied thoughts of a job well done today - the children & I went outside to walk, run & ride bikes (everyone chose their mode of exercise).
I have the "a-ha" thoughts from my Kung Fu class where the logic of a certain step finally got through my thick skull.
I have the "working overtime/hope it all comes together" thoughts for a project that I am in charge of & which is due this Thursday.
And I have the "what the heck is wrong with this world thoughts" as I vainly attempt to NOT think about the Boston explosions.
My heart aches for the victims and their families. But my temper also boils at the person/people who could have done something so awful...but as I wonder why, I also wonder if this is the end or the beginning to a very bloody summer.
Doesn't it seem as if there has steadily been an increase to violent acts lately? or at least an increase to the media's coverage of violent acts - specifically ones committed by guns?
I don't want to turn this into a political post.
I just have a jumbled mind and I am trying to unjumble it.
Everything I have typed (and erased) for the last 5 minutes has sounded like I am either preaching, bragging or whining! Jumbled thoughts in deed.
I hope everyone is safe tonight and feel loved.
Happy Walking!
Sunday, April 14, 2013
Day 144: All kinds of bummed
Even though I have walked everyday that I have had this nasty cold, I feel like my enthusiasm is waning. I feel as if my walking efforts are slipping...like I am walking a bit slower and just not caring.
It bothers me that I have these feelings. I mean just a couple of weeks ago I was all gung ho about walking, stretching, getting in shape....and now? nothing.
I honestly thought that once I got past my normal 3 month slacking that I wouldn't have any problems for the rest of the year. I guess I was wrong.
But I also wonder if that is normal in a journey - be it a fitness journey or a learning journey or a parenting journey or just the journey of life. Many people speak of the ups & downs of their lives - I heard one girl use the roller coaster as an analogy for life. I really think that I have been a bit naive in this area. Incorrectly thinking that if I could just make something a routine it would always be a routine that I loved & was excited about...except I have never had that happen...once.
I am actually laughing at myself now. Is marriage a constant up? Um, no!!!! Neither is parenting, neither is home schooling, neither is attending church or anything spiritual for that matter....so why in the world do I have that as my ideal? Why in the world do I expect that to be the norm and then get all kinds of bummed when it doesn't happen? why????
I love writing because it really forces me to look at myself.
When I started this post I was all bummed because I am not excited about walking. And now? Now, I get it. I am on a down. No big deal. I will walk anyway...and sooner or later I will get excited about it again. I like this realization. This is good.
Happy Walking!
It bothers me that I have these feelings. I mean just a couple of weeks ago I was all gung ho about walking, stretching, getting in shape....and now? nothing.
I honestly thought that once I got past my normal 3 month slacking that I wouldn't have any problems for the rest of the year. I guess I was wrong.
But I also wonder if that is normal in a journey - be it a fitness journey or a learning journey or a parenting journey or just the journey of life. Many people speak of the ups & downs of their lives - I heard one girl use the roller coaster as an analogy for life. I really think that I have been a bit naive in this area. Incorrectly thinking that if I could just make something a routine it would always be a routine that I loved & was excited about...except I have never had that happen...once.
I am actually laughing at myself now. Is marriage a constant up? Um, no!!!! Neither is parenting, neither is home schooling, neither is attending church or anything spiritual for that matter....so why in the world do I have that as my ideal? Why in the world do I expect that to be the norm and then get all kinds of bummed when it doesn't happen? why????
I love writing because it really forces me to look at myself.
When I started this post I was all bummed because I am not excited about walking. And now? Now, I get it. I am on a down. No big deal. I will walk anyway...and sooner or later I will get excited about it again. I like this realization. This is good.
Happy Walking!
Saturday, April 13, 2013
Day 143: Grown up girl time
Nothing new today - took my oldest daughter out for a fancy dinner date. We went to Olive Garden wearing our Sunday best. Olive Garden is one of my favorite restaurants, but not Steve's...so this was a special treat for both K and I!
Amazing how my daughter can seem so grown up some days...and then still a child on other days. And despite how long ago I was that same age...I remember the desperate desire to no longer be a child, but still wanting to be a child. Such a tough transition.
I am really thankful we had our dinner date tonight - where we could play at being grown up, but still be a little bit silly with our voices & the things we chatted about. I hope these good times can last for a really long time...
Happy Walking!
Amazing how my daughter can seem so grown up some days...and then still a child on other days. And despite how long ago I was that same age...I remember the desperate desire to no longer be a child, but still wanting to be a child. Such a tough transition.
I am really thankful we had our dinner date tonight - where we could play at being grown up, but still be a little bit silly with our voices & the things we chatted about. I hope these good times can last for a really long time...
Happy Walking!
Friday, April 12, 2013
Day 142: 5 Gratitudes for Friday, 16
1. A husband who encourages me to spend money on myself - I always feel so spoiled! In all honesty, if I was a person who was constantly spending money then Steve would probably feel differently, but I can be a bit of a Scrooge when it comes to spending money on myself. I bought 4 pairs of pants, 2 shoes and a new top this week. Steve's response? cool, but that was it? wonderful!
2. My children. They are pretty wonderful people. So many times they amaze me with what they know or remember. I love how they make connections. Each personality is unique and yet they can be so similar. Just amazing.
3. A year that seems to be flying by instead of dragging. I know this feeling is 100% related to my outlook on life, but wow! I can't believe it already April! 2013 feels bigger, brighter and better than last year.
4. The wonders of modern medicine. Too many days & nights this past week that I needed NyQuil or Aspirin or a cough drop. Seriously, what did people do before all this stuff was invented?
5. The simple pleasure of a slumber party. Monday night Z and I had a slumber party for his birthday. We watched t.v. and ate ice cream, it was fun. Tonight I am having a slumber party with S - part of her Christmas present from me: a monthly slumber party. Every time I get the privilege of having a slumber party I am thankful my children still want to do these silly things with me - I am well aware there will come a day that it just won't happen. That will be a sad day.
2. My children. They are pretty wonderful people. So many times they amaze me with what they know or remember. I love how they make connections. Each personality is unique and yet they can be so similar. Just amazing.
3. A year that seems to be flying by instead of dragging. I know this feeling is 100% related to my outlook on life, but wow! I can't believe it already April! 2013 feels bigger, brighter and better than last year.
4. The wonders of modern medicine. Too many days & nights this past week that I needed NyQuil or Aspirin or a cough drop. Seriously, what did people do before all this stuff was invented?
5. The simple pleasure of a slumber party. Monday night Z and I had a slumber party for his birthday. We watched t.v. and ate ice cream, it was fun. Tonight I am having a slumber party with S - part of her Christmas present from me: a monthly slumber party. Every time I get the privilege of having a slumber party I am thankful my children still want to do these silly things with me - I am well aware there will come a day that it just won't happen. That will be a sad day.
Thursday, April 11, 2013
Day 141: So Cool!
So...I need to take some more pictures - especially since I bought a cute outfit last night.
I only bought one outfit last night, but did some more shopping tonight...yes, I did more shopping tonight!
When I was younger, single and a whole lot thinner, I loved shopping. Sometimes I would try stuff on just for fun - without buying anything. I just loved trying on clothes.
After the children were born, I stopped taking the time...it became hard to take that kind of time for myself.
The few times I did go shopping for myself it was because I was in desperate need of something - shirts, pants, shoes...whatever. Shopping was not fun. It was a chore that I felt I needed to get through as fast possible. And then there was the horrible dressing room mirrors - showing all the fat I gained, all the stretch marks, and every other flaw. Just like avoiding having my picture taken, I avoided shopping.
Last night & tonight was different. Shopping was fun. I really like shopping with a friend, but I still had a lot of fun shopping by myself. I tried on a huge amount of capris (my preferred summer wear), a few tops and a few shoes.
Most of the capris did not fit. They were either too tight or had huge gaps in the back (I hate that!). But I did not get bummed.
Maybe it is the walking. Maybe it is all the books I have been reading about style. Maybe it is all the pictures I have been taking of myself. Maybe it is the time I have spent in front of a mirror being honest about my body at 40 something. Maybe I am finally learning to love myself.
Whatever the reason (or reasons) - I had fun shopping. I was thrilled the capris were not fitting perfectly - just proves that I have a normal body & that I am slowly getting into shape. So cool.
I will take some pics this weekend & post them soon.
Happy Walking!
I only bought one outfit last night, but did some more shopping tonight...yes, I did more shopping tonight!
When I was younger, single and a whole lot thinner, I loved shopping. Sometimes I would try stuff on just for fun - without buying anything. I just loved trying on clothes.
After the children were born, I stopped taking the time...it became hard to take that kind of time for myself.
The few times I did go shopping for myself it was because I was in desperate need of something - shirts, pants, shoes...whatever. Shopping was not fun. It was a chore that I felt I needed to get through as fast possible. And then there was the horrible dressing room mirrors - showing all the fat I gained, all the stretch marks, and every other flaw. Just like avoiding having my picture taken, I avoided shopping.
Last night & tonight was different. Shopping was fun. I really like shopping with a friend, but I still had a lot of fun shopping by myself. I tried on a huge amount of capris (my preferred summer wear), a few tops and a few shoes.
Most of the capris did not fit. They were either too tight or had huge gaps in the back (I hate that!). But I did not get bummed.
Maybe it is the walking. Maybe it is all the books I have been reading about style. Maybe it is all the pictures I have been taking of myself. Maybe it is the time I have spent in front of a mirror being honest about my body at 40 something. Maybe I am finally learning to love myself.
Whatever the reason (or reasons) - I had fun shopping. I was thrilled the capris were not fitting perfectly - just proves that I have a normal body & that I am slowly getting into shape. So cool.
I will take some pics this weekend & post them soon.
Happy Walking!
Wednesday, April 10, 2013
Day 140: Shopping Trip!
For a long time I have not been excited about shopping, but I am way excited about going out tonight. I am hoping to find a cute outfit to wear during the sight seeing portion of my up coming Chicago trip. Something that says "chic" instead of "tired mom". :)
Wish me luck! I am sooooo excited!
Happy Walking!
Wish me luck! I am sooooo excited!
Happy Walking!
Tuesday, April 9, 2013
Day 139: Outside
Wow! The weather here is crazy, but I don't care....we walked outside today. It was wonderfully hot!
Not sure if we are going to get any true "spring" weather, but we went from bitter cold to humid hot over night (or at least it seemed that way).
The children were so excited to be outside and running. I walked, they ran...it was all good.
Hope everyone is enjoying there weather!
Happy Walking!
Not sure if we are going to get any true "spring" weather, but we went from bitter cold to humid hot over night (or at least it seemed that way).
The children were so excited to be outside and running. I walked, they ran...it was all good.
Hope everyone is enjoying there weather!
Happy Walking!
Monday, April 8, 2013
Sunday, April 7, 2013
Day 137: Holding Steady
Not much change for me, but I am tired of whining. So...holding steady. Hopefully have more to write tomorrow.
Happy Walking!
Happy Walking!
Saturday, April 6, 2013
Day 136: Thank goodness for the weekend
I normally bristle at my husband's desire for Saturday's to be laid back and no work. Today I was grateful. I gave myself permission to be sick. Steve and the children fended for themselves and I played the bum.
I did make myself walk & stretch - only because I have made it a goal not to miss a day. I am looking forward to tomorrow where I only have to stretch. Steve thinks I am nuts for walking when I am sick, but I am happy that I am sticking to my goal. Who knows, maybe it will make a difference later on...
Happy Walking!
I did make myself walk & stretch - only because I have made it a goal not to miss a day. I am looking forward to tomorrow where I only have to stretch. Steve thinks I am nuts for walking when I am sick, but I am happy that I am sticking to my goal. Who knows, maybe it will make a difference later on...
Happy Walking!
Friday, April 5, 2013
Day 135: 5 Gratitudes for Friday, 15
1. Children who can work & play independently so I can take a nap. I napped a lot this week - I guess I needed it. I am also well aware that if they were younger it would have been a very different household this week - lots of movies in the desperate attempt to get some sleep. Man, I do not miss those days! While I napped, the children did art projects, worked on math & handwriting, played outside and even did chores. Normally I would feel guilty for them working hard & me being a bum, but not this time. It felt good to get the sleep my body needed knowing the children were old enough to continue on without me.
2. Husbands who don't mind doing the shopping. Steve is always willing to pick up any items I might have forgotten, but rarely does he do the weeks shopping & take the children with him. He did today so, again, I could get the rest I needed. He came home withe more "goodies" than I would have bought, but he bought all the things on the list and he did it to help me out...so no complaints! Just a whole lot of gratitude!
3. Library days. There was a time where it was like pulling teeth to get my younger two children interested in the library. Not sure why it changed or even when, but they love the library. This afternoon was suppose to be a children's museum day, but I just wasn't up for the loud noise & chaos. Thankfully, all 3 children happily wanted to go to the library for a much quieter & calmer outing.
4. Modern medicine. I am not a medicine junkie. I am happy to do home remedies, but it sure is nice that someone was smart enough to invent pain medicine like ibuprofen, cough medicine like NyQuil and even put Vick's vapor rub in a plug in....all of the above has helped me sleep through the night a little better.
5. Signs of spring - we have green shoots pushing up through the dirt in our flower beds. Just amazing. The weather is still to cool for my liking...I guess all those years in Arizona ruined me. Today it was in the 60s and I still wanted a light jacket...or maybe that has more to do with being sick? Doesn't matter. The signs that spring is coming with the promise of a warm summer is finally here! Thank goodness!!!
2. Husbands who don't mind doing the shopping. Steve is always willing to pick up any items I might have forgotten, but rarely does he do the weeks shopping & take the children with him. He did today so, again, I could get the rest I needed. He came home withe more "goodies" than I would have bought, but he bought all the things on the list and he did it to help me out...so no complaints! Just a whole lot of gratitude!
3. Library days. There was a time where it was like pulling teeth to get my younger two children interested in the library. Not sure why it changed or even when, but they love the library. This afternoon was suppose to be a children's museum day, but I just wasn't up for the loud noise & chaos. Thankfully, all 3 children happily wanted to go to the library for a much quieter & calmer outing.
4. Modern medicine. I am not a medicine junkie. I am happy to do home remedies, but it sure is nice that someone was smart enough to invent pain medicine like ibuprofen, cough medicine like NyQuil and even put Vick's vapor rub in a plug in....all of the above has helped me sleep through the night a little better.
5. Signs of spring - we have green shoots pushing up through the dirt in our flower beds. Just amazing. The weather is still to cool for my liking...I guess all those years in Arizona ruined me. Today it was in the 60s and I still wanted a light jacket...or maybe that has more to do with being sick? Doesn't matter. The signs that spring is coming with the promise of a warm summer is finally here! Thank goodness!!!
Thursday, April 4, 2013
Day 134: Hanging in there
Just a quick post.
I feel like crud, but still walking...just a lot of naps & breaks through out the day. I guess that is the perk of working within the home. :)
Happy Walking everyone!
I feel like crud, but still walking...just a lot of naps & breaks through out the day. I guess that is the perk of working within the home. :)
Happy Walking everyone!
Wednesday, April 3, 2013
Day 133: Seeds of Dedication
I love being dedicated.
As I went to bed last night feeling terrible (and yeah, it must be a cold because now I have a cough...), I knew in my heart & head that I was going to walk today. I walked slower, but I walked for the full 30 minutes.
What I love about dedication isn't the fact that I walked today, but that I can apply the lesson to other areas in my life.
Normally when I am sick, I let everything slide...house, school, myself...but today was different.
First, I walked, stretched & practiced my Kung Fu all because I had made a decision to be dedicated in those areas.
I also cooked, cleaned for 30 minutes, and did 1 load of laundry because I also made the decision to be dedicated in those areas.
And finally, I did a full day of school. I love home schooling, but sometimes it is easy to push it aside and say "oh, I will do more next week." Sadly, if you are not careful than a whole year can go by & you are not really sure what anybody learned.
Last week, I made the decision to be dedicated to home schooling for 180 days (legally required number of days in the state of Illinois). It was hard, my natural inclination was to take a nap or watch a movie, but we did a full day of school. I moved slower. I talked less and/or quieter. But we covered everything I had plan. The children learned and we had fun together.
I love dedication. Pick one area, focus on it and like nuts buried in the winter...all sorts of trees to start to grow. So very cool.
Happy Walking!
As I went to bed last night feeling terrible (and yeah, it must be a cold because now I have a cough...), I knew in my heart & head that I was going to walk today. I walked slower, but I walked for the full 30 minutes.
What I love about dedication isn't the fact that I walked today, but that I can apply the lesson to other areas in my life.
Normally when I am sick, I let everything slide...house, school, myself...but today was different.
First, I walked, stretched & practiced my Kung Fu all because I had made a decision to be dedicated in those areas.
I also cooked, cleaned for 30 minutes, and did 1 load of laundry because I also made the decision to be dedicated in those areas.
And finally, I did a full day of school. I love home schooling, but sometimes it is easy to push it aside and say "oh, I will do more next week." Sadly, if you are not careful than a whole year can go by & you are not really sure what anybody learned.
Last week, I made the decision to be dedicated to home schooling for 180 days (legally required number of days in the state of Illinois). It was hard, my natural inclination was to take a nap or watch a movie, but we did a full day of school. I moved slower. I talked less and/or quieter. But we covered everything I had plan. The children learned and we had fun together.
I love dedication. Pick one area, focus on it and like nuts buried in the winter...all sorts of trees to start to grow. So very cool.
Happy Walking!
Tuesday, April 2, 2013
Day 132: Sleep tight...
Perhaps it isn't cabin fever creeping in...sigh....massive headache today.
It could be a cold, but it doesn't feel like a cold. It is probably sinuses or allergies...either way, I feel terrible.
Yet, despite how I feel, I walked & I stretched. I drank a ton of water & I even took a nap.
I feel pretty strongly that I need to be as consistent with my bedtime as I am with my children's. If I need to be getting enough sleep each night. I can tell that this is the next part of this walking journey.
I walk because of the challenge from my doctor. I stretch so I can walk. I drink water because as I walk & stretch I have become more aware of my dehydration. Now, I need to get enough sleep. The more I walk, stretch & drink water the more I am aware that I am running on to low of sleep - which is never good for me. I am one of those 8 hours or more kind of girls. Always have been.
Here is too a good night's sleep! Happy Walking!
It could be a cold, but it doesn't feel like a cold. It is probably sinuses or allergies...either way, I feel terrible.
Yet, despite how I feel, I walked & I stretched. I drank a ton of water & I even took a nap.
I feel pretty strongly that I need to be as consistent with my bedtime as I am with my children's. If I need to be getting enough sleep each night. I can tell that this is the next part of this walking journey.
I walk because of the challenge from my doctor. I stretch so I can walk. I drink water because as I walk & stretch I have become more aware of my dehydration. Now, I need to get enough sleep. The more I walk, stretch & drink water the more I am aware that I am running on to low of sleep - which is never good for me. I am one of those 8 hours or more kind of girls. Always have been.
Here is too a good night's sleep! Happy Walking!
Monday, April 1, 2013
Day 131: Cabin Fever
I wish I had something witty or clever to say. After all, it is April Fool's Day...but no such luck.
Just another day of walking, stretching, attempting to drink enough water and just trying to enjoy the journey.
It is hard to believe that it is already April. The weather is very un- Spring like, but the sun is shining.
The eternal hope of warmer days and the feelings of cabin fever is certainly creeping in...we all want to walk outside instead of at the mall....but I guess that is part of the journey as well. Learning to look forward to something, but at the same time being content with where you are at.
It may take me a lifetime to learn.
Happy Walking!
Just another day of walking, stretching, attempting to drink enough water and just trying to enjoy the journey.
It is hard to believe that it is already April. The weather is very un- Spring like, but the sun is shining.
The eternal hope of warmer days and the feelings of cabin fever is certainly creeping in...we all want to walk outside instead of at the mall....but I guess that is part of the journey as well. Learning to look forward to something, but at the same time being content with where you are at.
It may take me a lifetime to learn.
Happy Walking!
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