I don't know about you, but I always look at each January as a new start, a fresh beginning. I always sit down and plan my resolutions, but I'm not always the best at keeping them. In 2013, I had 5 resolutions, but none of them were really concrete. I wanted to be healthy, focus on me, set monthly goals, focus on my 101 things to do in 1001 days, and just enjoy life.
For the most part, I did okay. I didn't focus on my health, which leads me to #1 for 2014. But, instead of having resolutions, I want to put some concrete goals within them.
#1. BE HEALTHY. Switch my diet to a more paleo lifestyle. Get rid of the extras, the processed crap that isn't good for me anyways. Eliminate Diet Coke altogether. Cook at home more. Eat out less. Visit the farmer's market, or join a co-op to bring more fresh fruits/veggies into our home. Focus on the way my clothes fit, how my body changes, how much stronger I become, and don't worry about the calories or the number on the scale.
#2. Spend more time studying/reading/learning the Bible. Do a bible study a month.
#3. Focus on others. Volunteer with the Salvation Army. Pay for the person behind me in line. At least once a month.
#4. Learn patience. Or if nothing else, learn to turn to God when I'm feeling stressed or I'm feeling like life isn't happening on my terms. This is something I struggle with, a LOT. It's something that I know isn't my strong suit, and something that I know I have to focus on to prevent becoming overwhelmed.
#5. Pass the CPA exam. Have the confidence to know that I can do it, that I can pass the exam, and that I know the information. Pray to God for guidance, strength, and confidence.
Sunday, December 29, 2013
Christmas Recap
I hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas, and that each and every one of you were able to spend time with your loved ones.
We had a fantastic Christmas. On the Sunday before Christmas, A and I, along with some friends, attended Gateway's candle light service. It was honestly the most amazing Christmas service I've ever attended, and truly made me even more appreciative of the church we call home. It took me a long time to find a place where I truly feel at home, but in 2013, we found that church home, became members, and haven't looked back.
Christmas Eve led us to the St Ann's Catholic Church in Coppell. I've never been to a Catholic Mass before, and certainly never midnight mass on Christmas Eve. A was raised Catholic, and even though he's no longer a practicing Catholic, he likes to go to the Christmas Eve service to pay respects to the religion he grew up in, to remember his family, and to start Christmas off right. We didn't make it in 2012, because I fell asleep, but I was determined we'd go this year. I think it's an amazing tradition. The singing was phenomenal, and the tradition behind the service was inspirational as well. It didn't feel like home to us, but it was a great way to wish Jesus a very Happy Birthday!
On Christmas Day, we headed north to celebrate with family. I love my family. We had a wonderful meal, enjoyed opening gifts, laughing, and being silly. :o)
I was fortunate to have the entire week of Christmas off to spend time with friends, family, and A, so I'm glad that I was able to get in as much time with people as possible. I know the next month is going to be INSANITY! But, I'm looking forward to the new challenges of a new year.
We had a fantastic Christmas. On the Sunday before Christmas, A and I, along with some friends, attended Gateway's candle light service. It was honestly the most amazing Christmas service I've ever attended, and truly made me even more appreciative of the church we call home. It took me a long time to find a place where I truly feel at home, but in 2013, we found that church home, became members, and haven't looked back.
Christmas Eve led us to the St Ann's Catholic Church in Coppell. I've never been to a Catholic Mass before, and certainly never midnight mass on Christmas Eve. A was raised Catholic, and even though he's no longer a practicing Catholic, he likes to go to the Christmas Eve service to pay respects to the religion he grew up in, to remember his family, and to start Christmas off right. We didn't make it in 2012, because I fell asleep, but I was determined we'd go this year. I think it's an amazing tradition. The singing was phenomenal, and the tradition behind the service was inspirational as well. It didn't feel like home to us, but it was a great way to wish Jesus a very Happy Birthday!
On Christmas Day, we headed north to celebrate with family. I love my family. We had a wonderful meal, enjoyed opening gifts, laughing, and being silly. :o)
I was fortunate to have the entire week of Christmas off to spend time with friends, family, and A, so I'm glad that I was able to get in as much time with people as possible. I know the next month is going to be INSANITY! But, I'm looking forward to the new challenges of a new year.
Tuesday, November 26, 2013
Forgiveness
Forgiveness is such a hard thing to tackle, at least for me. I won't say that I'm the girl that holds grudges, because I normally do not, but when someone or a couple of someones make decisions that completely derail your life, it's hard not to have a bit of anger towards them.
On Sunday, at church, Pastor Morris preached about emotional healing. What a powerful message. If you are interested in listening to it, here's the link: Wounded Warriors.
Most days I'm okay. I'm not mad, I'm not sad, I'm not angry, I'm great in fact. M and I had the world's most hurtful, toxic relationship. It was bad. But I'm angry that for 10 years he did nothing but lie to me about various things, including his relationship with another woman while still married to me. I'm angry that it took me 10 years, walking away from the situation to realize just how toxic it was. I'm angry that on NYE he's asking me out on a date, all while planning a wedding with his new wife. I'm angry that God gave them a child, when he didn't even want one. And even mentioned to me in text halfway through her pregnancy that he wasn't sure how he felt about it. I'm angry that A and I are likely going to struggle with infertility and PCOS. It sucks.
However, I have the most AMAZING relationship that shows me on a daily basis what relationships are supposed to be like. Before A, I never knew what it was like to hear "I love you" daily. I never knew what it was like for someone to genuinely say "You're Beautiful!" And when I respond with "thank you," he says "no, thank you." I never knew what honest support was like. For someone to be my biggest cheerleader (behind my Mom, of course). I have someone who actually listens when I speak, and who goes out of their way to express how he feels. It's incredible. I'm not sure I would know and appreciate a love this great without the failures of my past relationship.
This has been a struggle. I won't say it's over. I'm still angry. My blood still boils anytime I have to see his name in my e-mail, receive a text or a phone call. (This is why I love iOS 7's new operating system... the "block" feature is AMAZING!) I'm working on it. I spend time in prayer asking for God to take the anger away, and to allow me to forgive him.
If God can forgive me of my trespasses, and M for his as well, then surely I can attempt to do the same. I hope and pray that he seeks a relationship with the Lord. I hope he raises his daughter to be a good person, to focus on family, to seek a relationship with God. I hope he treats this marriage as more than a game. I hope he keeps his eyes with in the confines of his marriage, and doesn't look elsewhere like he did with me.
"For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you." Matthew 6:14
This is what I'm focusing on.
On Sunday, at church, Pastor Morris preached about emotional healing. What a powerful message. If you are interested in listening to it, here's the link: Wounded Warriors.
Most days I'm okay. I'm not mad, I'm not sad, I'm not angry, I'm great in fact. M and I had the world's most hurtful, toxic relationship. It was bad. But I'm angry that for 10 years he did nothing but lie to me about various things, including his relationship with another woman while still married to me. I'm angry that it took me 10 years, walking away from the situation to realize just how toxic it was. I'm angry that on NYE he's asking me out on a date, all while planning a wedding with his new wife. I'm angry that God gave them a child, when he didn't even want one. And even mentioned to me in text halfway through her pregnancy that he wasn't sure how he felt about it. I'm angry that A and I are likely going to struggle with infertility and PCOS. It sucks.
However, I have the most AMAZING relationship that shows me on a daily basis what relationships are supposed to be like. Before A, I never knew what it was like to hear "I love you" daily. I never knew what it was like for someone to genuinely say "You're Beautiful!" And when I respond with "thank you," he says "no, thank you." I never knew what honest support was like. For someone to be my biggest cheerleader (behind my Mom, of course). I have someone who actually listens when I speak, and who goes out of their way to express how he feels. It's incredible. I'm not sure I would know and appreciate a love this great without the failures of my past relationship.
This has been a struggle. I won't say it's over. I'm still angry. My blood still boils anytime I have to see his name in my e-mail, receive a text or a phone call. (This is why I love iOS 7's new operating system... the "block" feature is AMAZING!) I'm working on it. I spend time in prayer asking for God to take the anger away, and to allow me to forgive him.
If God can forgive me of my trespasses, and M for his as well, then surely I can attempt to do the same. I hope and pray that he seeks a relationship with the Lord. I hope he raises his daughter to be a good person, to focus on family, to seek a relationship with God. I hope he treats this marriage as more than a game. I hope he keeps his eyes with in the confines of his marriage, and doesn't look elsewhere like he did with me.
"For if you forgive others their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you." Matthew 6:14
This is what I'm focusing on.
Wednesday, October 30, 2013
November Goals
I belong to an online "Get Fit & Fab" group and every month we discuss our fitness/health goals. I have been posting these monthly goals for awhile now, and a lot of them are just slightly out of reach to truly get EVERYTHING on my list done. But, month after month, I continue this, because it gives me something to strive for and work towards. I've been thinking a lot about goals this month.
Health
1. Focus on a work out routine/plan. 5 days a week. No excuses. Even if it's only for 30 minutes.
2. Continue to drink more water.
3. Start & finish the Advocare 24 Day Challenge.
Home
1. Menu plan, and stick to it.
2. Start trying more gluten free and paleo recipes.
3. Accomplish 10 things from my "home" to do list.
Personal
1. Sign up for professional pictures. Schedule a date with Shani.
2. Get caught back up in school.
3. Accomplish 3 items from my 101 things list.
4. Accomplish 10 items from my "running" to do list.
Health
1. Focus on a work out routine/plan. 5 days a week. No excuses. Even if it's only for 30 minutes.
2. Continue to drink more water.
3. Start & finish the Advocare 24 Day Challenge.
Home
1. Menu plan, and stick to it.
2. Start trying more gluten free and paleo recipes.
3. Accomplish 10 things from my "home" to do list.
Personal
1. Sign up for professional pictures. Schedule a date with Shani.
2. Get caught back up in school.
3. Accomplish 3 items from my 101 things list.
4. Accomplish 10 items from my "running" to do list.
October Goals (Recap)
Really - there isn't much of a recap.
I managed to drink water, and have everything packed for the move. That's about it.
Health
1. Continue with the weekly work out routine. 3 days during the week, 1 weekend day.
2. Continue to drink more water.
Home
1. Menu plan, and stick to it.
2. Start trying more gluten free and paleo recipes.
3. Have everything packed to move. :o)
Personal
1. Sign up for professional pictures. Start researching prices.
2. Stay caught up in school. DO NOT GET BEHIND.
3. Accomplish 3 items from my 101 things list.
4. Accomplish 10 items from my "running" to do list.
I managed to drink water, and have everything packed for the move. That's about it.
Health
1. Continue with the weekly work out routine. 3 days during the week, 1 weekend day.
2. Continue to drink more water.
Home
1. Menu plan, and stick to it.
2. Start trying more gluten free and paleo recipes.
3. Have everything packed to move. :o)
Personal
1. Sign up for professional pictures. Start researching prices.
2. Stay caught up in school. DO NOT GET BEHIND.
3. Accomplish 3 items from my 101 things list.
4. Accomplish 10 items from my "running" to do list.
Friday, October 18, 2013
peaks, pit, praises, prayers (3)
So clearly this is going to be a more sporadic posting, instead of a weekly thing. I'm writing a lot of this stuff down in a notebook I keep with me.
Peaks, Pits, Praises & Prayers is basically an overview of whatever time frame you choose {typically a day, but well, I'll probably do a week}. And overall, I think it might be a fun way to remember what happened during the week.
{peaks} - highlights of the day {week}; overall positives
{pits} - low points of the day; instead of complaining, consider these blessings in disguise
{praises} - praising God for specific things through out the day {week}
{prayers} - prayer requests that arouse during the day {week} or have been lingering
{peaks}
cooler weather {and rain} - texas is still experiencing drought conditions, so the rain was a nice bonus. plus we have more chances for rain this weekend.
we're moving in less than a week! i can NOT wait.
{pits}
the government shutdown really took a toll on the emotional stress of some people. it was hard to watch. now the government is back up, but they are spouting incredible backlogs for processing things, even though they were only shut down for approx. 10 days.
{praises}
a surprised me with a trip to the pumpkin patch last weekend. i love that he takes the time to think of things that make me smile. i can't say enough about this man.
{prayers}
* LJ - Lord, please give LJ peace and wisdom as she struggles through some personal issues currently. She's a beautiful woman, inside and out. Help her see that.
* KT - Lord, please give KT the wisdom and courage to fight a battle she's facing. She knows she can't do it alone. Watch over her and her precious baby girl, S, and the court system as well.
Peaks, Pits, Praises & Prayers is basically an overview of whatever time frame you choose {typically a day, but well, I'll probably do a week}. And overall, I think it might be a fun way to remember what happened during the week.
{peaks} - highlights of the day {week}; overall positives
{pits} - low points of the day; instead of complaining, consider these blessings in disguise
{praises} - praising God for specific things through out the day {week}
{prayers} - prayer requests that arouse during the day {week} or have been lingering
{peaks}
cooler weather {and rain} - texas is still experiencing drought conditions, so the rain was a nice bonus. plus we have more chances for rain this weekend.
we're moving in less than a week! i can NOT wait.
{pits}
the government shutdown really took a toll on the emotional stress of some people. it was hard to watch. now the government is back up, but they are spouting incredible backlogs for processing things, even though they were only shut down for approx. 10 days.
{praises}
a surprised me with a trip to the pumpkin patch last weekend. i love that he takes the time to think of things that make me smile. i can't say enough about this man.
{prayers}
* LJ - Lord, please give LJ peace and wisdom as she struggles through some personal issues currently. She's a beautiful woman, inside and out. Help her see that.
* KT - Lord, please give KT the wisdom and courage to fight a battle she's facing. She knows she can't do it alone. Watch over her and her precious baby girl, S, and the court system as well.
Tuesday, October 1, 2013
October Goals
Whew! We made it to October. September was an insanely busy month, and October is shaping up to be similar. Today, with my mom's birthday, starts the birthday/holiday months. I'll be planning a surprise (he doesn't read the blog) birthday for A this month, along with moving, keeping up in school, work, etc.
Health
1. Continue with the weekly work out routine. 3 days during the week, 1 weekend day.
2. Continue to drink more water.
Home
1. Menu plan, and stick to it.
2. Start trying more gluten free and paleo recipes.
3. Have everything packed to move. :o)
Personal
1. Sign up for professional pictures. Start researching prices.
2. Stay caught up in school. DO NOT GET BEHIND.
3. Accomplish 3 items from my 101 things list.
4. Accomplish 10 items from my "running" to do list.
Health
1. Continue with the weekly work out routine. 3 days during the week, 1 weekend day.
2. Continue to drink more water.
Home
1. Menu plan, and stick to it.
2. Start trying more gluten free and paleo recipes.
3. Have everything packed to move. :o)
Personal
1. Sign up for professional pictures. Start researching prices.
2. Stay caught up in school. DO NOT GET BEHIND.
3. Accomplish 3 items from my 101 things list.
4. Accomplish 10 items from my "running" to do list.
September Goals - Recap
Starting in September, life is going to be CRAZY! Between work, school, packing to move, etc. there won't be a lot of time for extras, but I'm going to still create goals, because well, I can. And I'm going to do my best to keep going!
Health
1. Continue with the weekly work out routine. 3 days during the week, 1 weekend day. Ha! I might have worked out twice this month.
2. Continue to drink more water. I did, however, kick a$$ on the water drinking!
Home
1. Menu plan, and stick to it.
2. Start trying more gluten free and paleo recipes.
3. Pack up all the stuff in the "office" area downstairs to prepare for MOVING.
4. Pack up all glassware, etc. that is not being used.
Personal
1. Sign up for professional pictures. Start researching prices.
2. Stay caught up in school. DO NOT GET BEHIND.
3. Accomplish 3 items from my 101 things list.
4. Accomplish 10 items from my "running" to do list.
Health
1. Continue with the weekly work out routine. 3 days during the week, 1 weekend day. Ha! I might have worked out twice this month.
Home
1. Menu plan, and stick to it.
2. Start trying more gluten free and paleo recipes.
Personal
1. Sign up for professional pictures. Start researching prices.
3. Accomplish 3 items from my 101 things list.
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
peaks, pits, praises, prayers (2)
My intention is/was to post these on Friday, but I missed out on posting it on 9/20. Oh well. Better late than never!
Peaks, Pits, Praises & Prayers is basically an overview of whatever time frame you choose {typically a day, but well, I'll probably do a week}. And overall, I think it might be a fun way to remember what happened during the week.
{peaks} - highlights of the day {week}; overall positives
{pits} - low points of the day; instead of complaining, consider these blessings in disguise
{praises} - praising God for specific things through out the day {week}
{prayers} - prayer requests that arouse during the day {week} or have been lingering
{peaks}
we got an unexpected day off last week. on thursday, the water main broke in our office. the building opened up again at 1p, but instead of coming in, i decided to use a 1/2 day of vacation to just chill at home. it was a much needed break.
{pits}
other than a bit of financial stress in relation to school, i can't really think of any pits.
{praises}
a and i were able to have a fun filled weekend, and it was also much needed. dinner with friends on friday, a drive-in date on saturday, and a wonderful church service on sunday.
{prayers}
for all of the ladies dealing with issues in my hello mornings morning group.
Peaks, Pits, Praises & Prayers is basically an overview of whatever time frame you choose {typically a day, but well, I'll probably do a week}. And overall, I think it might be a fun way to remember what happened during the week.
{peaks} - highlights of the day {week}; overall positives
{pits} - low points of the day; instead of complaining, consider these blessings in disguise
{praises} - praising God for specific things through out the day {week}
{prayers} - prayer requests that arouse during the day {week} or have been lingering
{peaks}
we got an unexpected day off last week. on thursday, the water main broke in our office. the building opened up again at 1p, but instead of coming in, i decided to use a 1/2 day of vacation to just chill at home. it was a much needed break.
{pits}
other than a bit of financial stress in relation to school, i can't really think of any pits.
{praises}
a and i were able to have a fun filled weekend, and it was also much needed. dinner with friends on friday, a drive-in date on saturday, and a wonderful church service on sunday.
{prayers}
for all of the ladies dealing with issues in my hello mornings morning group.
Friday, September 13, 2013
peaks, pits, praises & prayers
Have any of you heard of this idea? I first saw it on Pinterest, but then, the picture that was posted didn't have a link. I loved the idea, and thought about just ordering a journal (which I still very well may do). I tend to write a lot of things down as the day goes, so I think this journaling idea could be a good one.
Anyways...
Peaks, Pits, Praises & Prayers is basically an overview of whatever time frame you choose {typically a day, but well, I'll probably do a week}. And overall, I think it might be a fun way to remember what happened during the week.
{peaks} - highlights of the day {week}; overall positives
{pits} - low points of the day; instead of complaining, consider these blessings in disguise
{praises} - praising God for specific things through out the day {week}
{prayers} - prayer requests that arouse during the day {week} or have been lingering
{peaks}
i'm really enjoying my tax classes this semester, which is something i never thought i'd say. i have a really awesome professors, and i feel like i might actually learn something this semester instead of walking away frustrated and overwhelmed.
{pits}
i got a $50 ticket from the dart police this week. for fare evasion. and really, it wasn't fare evasion more than it was my lack of reading skills. it wasn't done on purpose, but i either suck it up and pay the $50 or try to convince a judge that it was an honest mistake.
{praises}
i realize (well, every day) what an amazing support system i have in my friends and family. and more than that, the amazing boyfriend that i have. he's never without encouraging words. and it's funny when God puts you through pain and heartache only to deliver you on the other side. it teaches us to lean on Him more and on ourselves less. it's a good lesson to learn. :o)
{prayers}
i'm not sure if any of you have heard, but there was a major fire on the Jersey boardwalk yesterday. prayers for the lives affected by these fires. they had just finished rebuilding from the damage from flooding last year.
a prayer for the dart officer that was having such a bad day that he felt the need to take it out on me. i'm not talking about him writing me a ticket, i'm talking about the attitude he had when he made the comments towards me that he made. i really hope he finds peace and patience in this world.
prayers for A as he tackles some health issues with his doctor today.
Anyways...
Peaks, Pits, Praises & Prayers is basically an overview of whatever time frame you choose {typically a day, but well, I'll probably do a week}. And overall, I think it might be a fun way to remember what happened during the week.
{peaks} - highlights of the day {week}; overall positives
{pits} - low points of the day; instead of complaining, consider these blessings in disguise
{praises} - praising God for specific things through out the day {week}
{prayers} - prayer requests that arouse during the day {week} or have been lingering
{peaks}
i'm really enjoying my tax classes this semester, which is something i never thought i'd say. i have a really awesome professors, and i feel like i might actually learn something this semester instead of walking away frustrated and overwhelmed.
{pits}
i got a $50 ticket from the dart police this week. for fare evasion. and really, it wasn't fare evasion more than it was my lack of reading skills. it wasn't done on purpose, but i either suck it up and pay the $50 or try to convince a judge that it was an honest mistake.
{praises}
i realize (well, every day) what an amazing support system i have in my friends and family. and more than that, the amazing boyfriend that i have. he's never without encouraging words. and it's funny when God puts you through pain and heartache only to deliver you on the other side. it teaches us to lean on Him more and on ourselves less. it's a good lesson to learn. :o)
{prayers}
i'm not sure if any of you have heard, but there was a major fire on the Jersey boardwalk yesterday. prayers for the lives affected by these fires. they had just finished rebuilding from the damage from flooding last year.
a prayer for the dart officer that was having such a bad day that he felt the need to take it out on me. i'm not talking about him writing me a ticket, i'm talking about the attitude he had when he made the comments towards me that he made. i really hope he finds peace and patience in this world.
prayers for A as he tackles some health issues with his doctor today.
Monday, September 9, 2013
September Goals
Starting in September, life is going to be CRAZY! Between work, school, packing to move, etc. there won't be a lot of time for extras, but I'm going to still create goals, because well, I can. And I'm going to do my best to keep going!
Health
1. Continue with the weekly work out routine. 3 days during the week, 1 weekend day.
2. Continue to drink more water.
Home
1. Menu plan, and stick to it.
2. Start trying more gluten free and paleo recipes.
3. Pack up all the stuff in the "office" area downstairs to prepare for MOVING.
4. Pack up all glassware, etc. that is not being used.
Personal
1. Sign up for professional pictures. Start researching prices.
2. Stay caught up in school. DO NOT GET BEHIND.
3. Accomplish 3 items from my 101 things list.
4. Accomplish 10 items from my "running" to do list.
Health
1. Continue with the weekly work out routine. 3 days during the week, 1 weekend day.
2. Continue to drink more water.
Home
1. Menu plan, and stick to it.
2. Start trying more gluten free and paleo recipes.
3. Pack up all the stuff in the "office" area downstairs to prepare for MOVING.
4. Pack up all glassware, etc. that is not being used.
Personal
1. Sign up for professional pictures. Start researching prices.
2. Stay caught up in school. DO NOT GET BEHIND.
3. Accomplish 3 items from my 101 things list.
4. Accomplish 10 items from my "running" to do list.
August Goals - Recap
Here's the August recap...
Health
1. Start a weekly workout routine. Focus on gaining momentum. A total of 10 work outs for the month. While the end of the month fizzled due to work and school, I did pretty well through the month as a whole, and got in the 10 work outs that I had planned. I'm going to count this one as a success!
2. Continue to drink more water. I've been trying to limit my intake of Diet Coke. I usually only have one per day, during lunch. While that's more than I want to drink, sometimes I just need the caffeine boost. But... I've been drinking nothing but water at home, and through the rest of the day at work. So SUCCESS!
Home
1. Make a minimum of one new recipe per week for dinner. Healthy! FAILURE!
2. Menu plan, and stick to it. Another major fail. I think because I wasn't menu planning, I didn't cook, at all.
3. Pack up all the stuff in the "office" area downstairs to prepare for new furniture, and ORGANIZATION! I skipped this one, but on purpose. We decided instead of renewing our lease, we're going to move to a new apartment. Instead of organizing, we're packing for good.
4. Paint the curtains for the living room, take the curtains for the bedroom to the cleaners. Another one I skipped - on purpose. I'm going to wait until we get moved to figure out what I want to do in terms of decor, and we'll go from there.
Personal
I'm not even going to bother with these individually. It just didn't happen.
1. Sign up for professional pictures. Start researching prices.
2. Read five + books for fun.
3. Accomplish 3 items from my 101 things list.
4. Accomplish 10 items from my "running" to do list.
Health
1. Start a weekly workout routine. Focus on gaining momentum. A total of 10 work outs for the month. While the end of the month fizzled due to work and school, I did pretty well through the month as a whole, and got in the 10 work outs that I had planned. I'm going to count this one as a success!
Home
1. Make a minimum of one new recipe per week for dinner. Healthy! FAILURE!
2. Menu plan, and stick to it. Another major fail. I think because I wasn't menu planning, I didn't cook, at all.
3. Pack up all the stuff in the "office" area downstairs to prepare for new furniture, and ORGANIZATION! I skipped this one, but on purpose. We decided instead of renewing our lease, we're going to move to a new apartment. Instead of organizing, we're packing for good.
4. Paint the curtains for the living room, take the curtains for the bedroom to the cleaners. Another one I skipped - on purpose. I'm going to wait until we get moved to figure out what I want to do in terms of decor, and we'll go from there.
Personal
I'm not even going to bother with these individually. It just didn't happen.
1. Sign up for professional pictures. Start researching prices.
2. Read five + books for fun.
3. Accomplish 3 items from my 101 things list.
4. Accomplish 10 items from my "running" to do list.
Friday, August 9, 2013
August Goals
So we're already 1/3rd of the way through August. Where in the world has the time gone? This year is simply FLYING by. A and I are less than two months away from celebrating our one year anniversary. It seems like I just met him yesterday.
Health
1. Start a weekly workout routine. Focus on gaining momentum. A total of 10 work outs for the month.
2. Continue to drink more water.
Home
1. Make a minimum of one new recipe per week for dinner. Healthy!
2. Menu plan, and stick to it.
3. Pack up all the stuff in the "office" area downstairs to prepare for new furniture, and ORGANIZATION!
4. Paint the curtains for the living room, take the curtains for the bedroom to the cleaners.
Personal
1. Sign up for professional pictures. Start researching prices.
2. Read five + books for fun.
3. Accomplish 3 items from my 101 things list.
4. Accomplish 10 items from my "running" to do list.
Health
1. Start a weekly workout routine. Focus on gaining momentum. A total of 10 work outs for the month.
2. Continue to drink more water.
Home
1. Make a minimum of one new recipe per week for dinner. Healthy!
2. Menu plan, and stick to it.
3. Pack up all the stuff in the "office" area downstairs to prepare for new furniture, and ORGANIZATION!
4. Paint the curtains for the living room, take the curtains for the bedroom to the cleaners.
Personal
1. Sign up for professional pictures. Start researching prices.
2. Read five + books for fun.
3. Accomplish 3 items from my 101 things list.
4. Accomplish 10 items from my "running" to do list.
July Goals - Recap
July was an insanely busy month at work. I felt overwhelmed 90% of the time. We had THREE back-to-back audits without a break, and since a big part of my job duties are to assist with the audit, I didn't feel like I had much time to breath. But, thankfully, August is starting out *much* slower. I know it's already the 9th day of the month, and I'm just now getting around to this recap. Better late than never!
Here are the July goals, recapped.
Health
I'm not even going to bother with these. I didn't do anything in July.
1. Continue with my weekly workout routine. A minimum of 3 work outs per week, no matter how small.
2. Continue to drink more water.
3. Start and finish the Advocare 24 Day Challenge.
Home
1. Make a minimum of one new recipe per week for dinner. Healthy! I feel very successful with this one. I cooked more in the month of July that I've cooked in a long time. :o)
2. Menu plan, and stick to it. Because of my cooking, we were able to menu plan and stick to it!
3. Bring lunch to work a minimum of 3 days a week. This one has actually become very easy for me. I loathe leaving the office for lunch, because there's so many people all cramming into the same restuarants. Oh, and we're supposed to do it in an hour. Riiiiight.
4. Grocery shop on the weekends, or Thursday evening. This one kind of goes hand in hand in my menu planning and cooking. I can't cook without groceries.
Personal
1. Sign up for professional pictures. Start researching prices.
2. Read three + books for fun. Done. I miss reading! :o) I actually think I accomplished more than 3, but I'd have to go back to my TBR list to double check.
3. Accomplish 3 items from my 101 things list. I'm not going to mark this one off, but I did complete 2 things. I finished Carie's embroidered towels. Um - it was part of her Christmas present. And, I made homemade brownies from scratch.
4. Accomplish 10 items from my "running" to do list.
Here are the July goals, recapped.
Health
I'm not even going to bother with these. I didn't do anything in July.
1. Continue with my weekly workout routine. A minimum of 3 work outs per week, no matter how small.
2. Continue to drink more water.
3. Start and finish the Advocare 24 Day Challenge.
Home
Personal
1. Sign up for professional pictures. Start researching prices.
3. Accomplish 3 items from my 101 things list. I'm not going to mark this one off, but I did complete 2 things. I finished Carie's embroidered towels. Um - it was part of her Christmas present. And, I made homemade brownies from scratch.
4. Accomplish 10 items from my "running" to do list.
Monday, August 5, 2013
Hello Mornings
Do any of you ever feel like you could utilize your mornings better? You know - the hours before the rest of the world gets up. I feel like that's the only time I have left in the day that isn't already occupied by work, school, preparing for the next day, etc.
A couple of weeks ago, I found a website online called HelloMornings.org. If you haven't heard of it, you should check it out. I've been feeling lately like waking up a bit earlier and focusing on reading my Bible and studying the Lord's word is something I should really do. Finding this group of women couldn't have come at a better time.
Starting August 19th, that's exactly what I'm going to be doing. An online Bible study about the book of Ephesians.
Anyone care to join me?
A couple of weeks ago, I found a website online called HelloMornings.org. If you haven't heard of it, you should check it out. I've been feeling lately like waking up a bit earlier and focusing on reading my Bible and studying the Lord's word is something I should really do. Finding this group of women couldn't have come at a better time.
Starting August 19th, that's exactly what I'm going to be doing. An online Bible study about the book of Ephesians.
Anyone care to join me?
Monday, July 15, 2013
Weekend Recap
I don't always post a weekend recap, but then, exciting things don't always happen during our weekends off.
This weekend, on Saturday, A and I went to our church "Catch The Vision" class, and officially became members. For the first time as an adult, I'm officially a member of a church, and I love it. It truly feels like home. (The only downside is that when we do officially decide to move away from DFW - we'll definitely miss that place. I'm not sure there will ever be another church like it.)
Afterwards - I headed north to my parent's house, while A stayed at home. He hasn't been sleeping well and was dealing with major allergies so I told him to stay home. Hanging with my mom is always fun. And... my stepdad smoked chicken on his new smoker, so that was nice too.
Sunday was full of the typical weekend chores, straightening up the house, laundry, etc.
This weekend, on Saturday, A and I went to our church "Catch The Vision" class, and officially became members. For the first time as an adult, I'm officially a member of a church, and I love it. It truly feels like home. (The only downside is that when we do officially decide to move away from DFW - we'll definitely miss that place. I'm not sure there will ever be another church like it.)
Afterwards - I headed north to my parent's house, while A stayed at home. He hasn't been sleeping well and was dealing with major allergies so I told him to stay home. Hanging with my mom is always fun. And... my stepdad smoked chicken on his new smoker, so that was nice too.
Sunday was full of the typical weekend chores, straightening up the house, laundry, etc.
Monday, July 8, 2013
Trying
Do you ever feel like sometimes you just need a break? Just for a little while, you just need things to sort of go your way? Not 100%, but not 10% either. I'm having one of those days.
Friday, July 5, 2013
Passing
The last couple of weeks have been um, emotionally trying, at best. If you'll remember back a couple of weeks ago, I posted about my grandma's health. And then posted an "update" of sorts that the doctors said she was doing better. However, on June 22nd, 2013, my grandma went to be with the Lord. She was met in heaven by her parents, her grandparents, her oldest born son, and the man she never stopped loving. They had the most amazing welcome party.
For those of us left behind, we were able to celebrate the memories we have of her. Last week, A, my brother M, and I went to KS to be with family. The viewing was on Thursday, and after the viewing, the pastor doing the service, had the entire family sit down and tell our memories of my grandma. Some were sad, many were funny. I learned more about the woman who loved her kids and grandkids unconditionally. And in doing so, we all began to heal as best as you can when you lose a loved one.
As my brother and I were talking - we realized that our cousins, T and E, are the same age as we were when my grandpa passed away. It's kind of weird looking back and remembering how we felt when that happened compared to now when we understand life and death. I was able to be a support system for the boys while their mom dealt with losing her mom. I'm just thankful that I had that opportunity.
For me, I had prayed several weeks before, for healing and peace for my family as I knew this time was coming. I prayed that God would end my grandma's pain and suffering, and that she'd be much happier in Heaven shining down on us each day than laying in a nursing home bed where she didn't know any of us. I'm thankful that he finally took her home.
RIP my sweet grandma Betty! We'll always have the memories. And now, we have another guardian angel.
For those of us left behind, we were able to celebrate the memories we have of her. Last week, A, my brother M, and I went to KS to be with family. The viewing was on Thursday, and after the viewing, the pastor doing the service, had the entire family sit down and tell our memories of my grandma. Some were sad, many were funny. I learned more about the woman who loved her kids and grandkids unconditionally. And in doing so, we all began to heal as best as you can when you lose a loved one.
As my brother and I were talking - we realized that our cousins, T and E, are the same age as we were when my grandpa passed away. It's kind of weird looking back and remembering how we felt when that happened compared to now when we understand life and death. I was able to be a support system for the boys while their mom dealt with losing her mom. I'm just thankful that I had that opportunity.
For me, I had prayed several weeks before, for healing and peace for my family as I knew this time was coming. I prayed that God would end my grandma's pain and suffering, and that she'd be much happier in Heaven shining down on us each day than laying in a nursing home bed where she didn't know any of us. I'm thankful that he finally took her home.
RIP my sweet grandma Betty! We'll always have the memories. And now, we have another guardian angel.
Monday, July 1, 2013
July Goals
I had a pretty good June, considering. My grandmother passed away on June 22nd, so the last week of the month was spent with family, celebrating her life, and laying her to rest. I'm not at all disappointed in my achievements. :-)
Here are July's goals.
Health
1. Continue with my weekly workout routine. A minimum of 3 work outs per week, no matter how small.
2. Continue to drink more water.
3. Start and finish the Advocare 24 Day Challenge.
Home
1. Make a minimum of one new recipe per week for dinner. Healthy!
2. Menu plan, and stick to it.
3. Bring lunch to work a minimum of 3 days a week.
4. Grocery shop on the weekends, or Thursday evening.
Personal
1. Sign up for professional pictures. Start researching prices.
2. Read three + books for fun.
3. Accomplish 3 items from my 101 things list.
4. Accomplish 10 items from my "running" to do list.
Here are July's goals.
Health
1. Continue with my weekly workout routine. A minimum of 3 work outs per week, no matter how small.
2. Continue to drink more water.
3. Start and finish the Advocare 24 Day Challenge.
Home
1. Make a minimum of one new recipe per week for dinner. Healthy!
2. Menu plan, and stick to it.
3. Bring lunch to work a minimum of 3 days a week.
4. Grocery shop on the weekends, or Thursday evening.
Personal
1. Sign up for professional pictures. Start researching prices.
2. Read three + books for fun.
3. Accomplish 3 items from my 101 things list.
4. Accomplish 10 items from my "running" to do list.
June Goals - Recap
Health
1. Continue with my weekly workout routine. A minimum of 3 work outs per week, no matter how small. I have to say, I'm kind of proud of this one! It wasn't always easy with work and school, but I managed.
2. DRINK MORE WATER! Another *must* do goal! Another one I'm proud of! Drinking water is tough for me, but I was successful.
3. Start and finish the Advocare 24 Day Challenge.
Home
1. Make a minimum of one new recipe per week for dinner. Healthy!
2. Menu plan, and stick to it.
3. Bring lunch to work a minimum of 3 days a week. Done! Yay!
4. Grocery shop on the weekends, or Thursday evening. Done! Yay!
Personal
1. Sign up for professional pictures. Pick a date with Shani.
2. Read two + books for fun.
3. Accomplish 3 items from my 101 things list. I only managed to accomplish 1. But that's okay, it's better than nothing.
4. Accomplish 10 items from my "running" to do list.
3. Start and finish the Advocare 24 Day Challenge.
Home
1. Make a minimum of one new recipe per week for dinner. Healthy!
2. Menu plan, and stick to it.
Personal
1. Sign up for professional pictures. Pick a date with Shani.
3. Accomplish 3 items from my 101 things list. I only managed to accomplish 1. But that's okay, it's better than nothing.
Friday, June 21, 2013
Fitness Friday (2)
Here's the recap to week 2.
It wasn't as great as week 1. It's been a whirlwind of a week, with so much to accomplish in the evenings. Last Saturday, Alex got a flat tire on the bike so we had to take the bike to the shop and drop it off Saturday afternoon. Our gym at the apartment has a remote to get into it. The remote was on the keys to the bike, which we didn't get back until Tuesday evening.
Sunday & Monday - I did a kettle bell workout. For those of you that have never used a kettle bell, I recommend going out and getting one, PRONTO! Not only do they do amazing things with just a 10 lb weight, but the various exercises you can do with them are incredible. I don't know, I'm weird I suppose, but I do enjoy the kettle bell exercises I've found. And since A has really helped me learn how to do squats accurately, I feel like I'm getting an incredible workout in my apartment. (And it's free!)
Tuesday - We had to go get the bike and pick up a baby shower gift for a baby shower we're going to this weekend, so no work out was had that day.
Wednesday & Thursday - YAY FOR CARDIO! I finally was able to get in some cardio. I discovered something else this week too. I can take my iPad to the gym, open the Kindle app, increase the font size (I'm blind without glasses - but I don't wear them in the gym) and get some reading in too! It's like I'm being productive AND working out at the same time. Plus, it makes working out not seem so... chore like.
I'll do one more day of cardio tonight, just to get in my 5 days for the week.
Eating - now that's a differnet story. It's definitely been somewhat of a struggle this week. School has been overwhelming, so I haven't eaten perfectly. It hasn't been terrible, but not nearly as awesome as it was week 1. My plan is to completely change that for week 3.
Oh! And weight loss so far - 0.8 lbs. I was hoping for a much greater weight loss, but anything is better than nothing. So yay!
It wasn't as great as week 1. It's been a whirlwind of a week, with so much to accomplish in the evenings. Last Saturday, Alex got a flat tire on the bike so we had to take the bike to the shop and drop it off Saturday afternoon. Our gym at the apartment has a remote to get into it. The remote was on the keys to the bike, which we didn't get back until Tuesday evening.
Sunday & Monday - I did a kettle bell workout. For those of you that have never used a kettle bell, I recommend going out and getting one, PRONTO! Not only do they do amazing things with just a 10 lb weight, but the various exercises you can do with them are incredible. I don't know, I'm weird I suppose, but I do enjoy the kettle bell exercises I've found. And since A has really helped me learn how to do squats accurately, I feel like I'm getting an incredible workout in my apartment. (And it's free!)
Tuesday - We had to go get the bike and pick up a baby shower gift for a baby shower we're going to this weekend, so no work out was had that day.
Wednesday & Thursday - YAY FOR CARDIO! I finally was able to get in some cardio. I discovered something else this week too. I can take my iPad to the gym, open the Kindle app, increase the font size (I'm blind without glasses - but I don't wear them in the gym) and get some reading in too! It's like I'm being productive AND working out at the same time. Plus, it makes working out not seem so... chore like.
I'll do one more day of cardio tonight, just to get in my 5 days for the week.
Eating - now that's a differnet story. It's definitely been somewhat of a struggle this week. School has been overwhelming, so I haven't eaten perfectly. It hasn't been terrible, but not nearly as awesome as it was week 1. My plan is to completely change that for week 3.
Oh! And weight loss so far - 0.8 lbs. I was hoping for a much greater weight loss, but anything is better than nothing. So yay!
Monday, June 17, 2013
Randoms...
Today, I'm feeling very random. I have 1,000,000 thoughts swirling through my head, and not near enough time to put those random thoughts down on paper. For the most part, I'm okay. I'm better than okay. I have a life I love, a boyfriend (although we're just "hanging out") that I love and adore, an amazing family, friends that I can't even begin to say enough about. And yet - I feel like I'm back in a holding pattern for life. A and I have talked about this, so it's not like I'm springing things upon him. I don't know. It's a weird feeling. I'm not a patient person, but I constantly pray for patience. Ironic? Maybe.
On Friday, my mom called and let me know that my grandma has gone into renal failure. What that means at this point, we don't know. We're waiting on blood work and the doctor's input this morning. My parents are in Kansas now. But I would imagine that I'll be making an impromptu trip to Kansas with A and my baby brother, M, sometime in the very near future. It'll be nice to be around family, but it'll be hard to bury one more grandparent. I pray for peace and understanding. Peace for my family, that all of us will find comfort in knowing that my grandma is with the Lord, her husband, and her parents. I pray for understanding as to why her life for the past 5 years has been so unfulfilled for her. She doesn't know who her kids or grand kids are when we visit. I pray for wisdom that all of us will know how to handle the drama and issues that are bound to follow her passing, and that we'll all know how to deal with the issues at hand. Yesterday, at church, we sang Amazing Grace. We've haven't sang Amazing Grace in the past 6 months, but yesterday, that was our closing worship song. Then J. John (our visiting speaker) prayed for health, for us, for our loved ones. I cried. Hard, ugly, emotionally releasing tears. I prayed for God to just take my grandma home. After church was over, A led me to the front. He's never done that, but he knew what I needed. A seems to always know what I need. It's the most surreal connection I've ever had with another person.
So here's a most random twist of events. I posted this blog this morning around 9 am. Here it is now, 4p. My parents are coming home. Apparently, the nurse who told my mom and my aunt that my grandma was in renal failure was wrong. VERY, VERY, VERY WRONG! Today was the first day that my parents were able to talk to the doctor. They got to Kansas on Saturday, so the doctor wasn't in again until today. The blood work that came back from the lab shows elevated levels meaning that her kidneys aren't working at optimal level, but she's physically no different this week than she was a month ago. Ahhhh!! I'm so frustrated for my parents and my aunt and uncle who dropped everything to make the trip to Kansas to be with my grandma. I'm glad they were able to be there, to see her again, and I'm thankful that they are all able to do that with their careers. But man.
So here's a most random twist of events. I posted this blog this morning around 9 am. Here it is now, 4p. My parents are coming home. Apparently, the nurse who told my mom and my aunt that my grandma was in renal failure was wrong. VERY, VERY, VERY WRONG! Today was the first day that my parents were able to talk to the doctor. They got to Kansas on Saturday, so the doctor wasn't in again until today. The blood work that came back from the lab shows elevated levels meaning that her kidneys aren't working at optimal level, but she's physically no different this week than she was a month ago. Ahhhh!! I'm so frustrated for my parents and my aunt and uncle who dropped everything to make the trip to Kansas to be with my grandma. I'm glad they were able to be there, to see her again, and I'm thankful that they are all able to do that with their careers. But man.
Father's Day was hard. On us both. I called my step-dad and wished him a Happy Father's Day. I called my dad too, but his phone went to voice mail. He hasn't called me back. I really hope everything is okay.
It kills me to watch A struggle with his own relationship with his son, and the pain he feels in missing his dad, his grandfather and his uncle who were both such amazing father figures in his life. I struggle with the idea that we may never be able to have kids, and I may never see the love in his eyes for our children. I don't know that for sure. My body is capable of amazing things. I'm trying to be patient.
I struggle that my ex-husband got to cheat on me, completely IGNORE his vows to me, married his new wife (the same woman he moved in while I was still living there) 30 days after our divorce was final, and his new wife is pregnant with a son already. As miserable as I was, and as unhappy as I was, I never once went outside our relationship for emotional or physical fulfillment. He did. I struggle with the idea that THEIR relationship started out as a lie, and yet - he will get the joys of being a father. He didn't even want kids. I struggle with his physical and emotional belittlement, and how I still feel like I can't do things because for 10 years I was told I couldn't. I struggle with anger towards him. Oh! And to know that the only reason I know about his child is because he thought that was the last thing he had to hurt me with. Ha! And, figuring out that he'd spent the last 10 years maintaining yet another LIE, led me to thank God for protecting ME. Let's not even take into consideration the number of times he asked me to work things out (while maintaining a relationship with his current wife... the power of social media is a powerful thing), even so far as to ask me on a date for New Year's Eve, three months before their wedding date. I have the text messages. A has read them as well.
But, I also know that he has to be the one to handle his demons. He has to be the one to answer for his actions to the Lord. I'm not the final judgement day, nor do I want to be. In some weird way - I know I have to figure out how to forgive him. In my heart, I know that God won't bless A and I with a child, once we're ready, until I find forgiveness in my heart. Forgiveness isn't easy. But I'm trying. Not for him, but for me.
I'm also incredibly thankful that God blessed me with A. He's the most patient, kind, loving, caring, God fearing man, I've ever encountered. He's gentle, compassionate, inspiring, simply amazing. I love his heart for the people he loves, and more so, for the complete strangers. I'm awed by his desire to want a real relationship with me, based on trust, honesty, and love. I'm just humbled, every single day.
Patience isn't my virtue. And I told you these thoughts were random.
Friday, June 14, 2013
Fitness Friday (1)
Here's my first accountability post. And I have to say, I'm beyond proud of myself this week. :o)
After having a pity party for one, I woke up Saturday morning and got a workout in. It wasn't the best, I didn't meet any PR or anything, but I did it. Sunday - the same thing. I skipped Monday as a rest day, which was totally planned. Did the elliptical on Tuesday, lifted weights on Wednesday, rested on Thursday, will get a quick run in tonight, and plan on doing some weight training and running on Saturday. My weeks are going to go from Sunday - Saturday, so I will have achieved my goal of 5 work outs this week! Yay!
Food - for the most part I did pretty well. I went over calories on Monday, but that was due to poor planning on my part due to a work function for a new employee. Other than that - I stayed within calories each day. I won't say that my eating will always be perfect, or that I won't have some slip up days, but I will do my best to stay on track.
It's amazing how just one week can make a difference. I'm already feeling better, although the scale hasn't moved even .1 lb. That's okay. I'm hoping for a big loss next week!
Alex is trying to convince me to start doing the P90X workouts with him. I think I'm going to try it. I just have to remember (which I'm still struggling with) that I've never been the athletic type, and I have to work for it. I wasn't blessed with a high metabolism. I won't ever shape up as quickly as he will. Partly because I'm a female, and partly because he's always been insane physically. If he's willing to do this with me and for me, I'm on board.
For the start of this journey, I'd have to say that week 1 was a success.
After having a pity party for one, I woke up Saturday morning and got a workout in. It wasn't the best, I didn't meet any PR or anything, but I did it. Sunday - the same thing. I skipped Monday as a rest day, which was totally planned. Did the elliptical on Tuesday, lifted weights on Wednesday, rested on Thursday, will get a quick run in tonight, and plan on doing some weight training and running on Saturday. My weeks are going to go from Sunday - Saturday, so I will have achieved my goal of 5 work outs this week! Yay!
Food - for the most part I did pretty well. I went over calories on Monday, but that was due to poor planning on my part due to a work function for a new employee. Other than that - I stayed within calories each day. I won't say that my eating will always be perfect, or that I won't have some slip up days, but I will do my best to stay on track.
It's amazing how just one week can make a difference. I'm already feeling better, although the scale hasn't moved even .1 lb. That's okay. I'm hoping for a big loss next week!
Alex is trying to convince me to start doing the P90X workouts with him. I think I'm going to try it. I just have to remember (which I'm still struggling with) that I've never been the athletic type, and I have to work for it. I wasn't blessed with a high metabolism. I won't ever shape up as quickly as he will. Partly because I'm a female, and partly because he's always been insane physically. If he's willing to do this with me and for me, I'm on board.
For the start of this journey, I'd have to say that week 1 was a success.
Friday, June 7, 2013
Those feelings...
This is a hard subject for me to blog about - but here goes nothing...
As women, I think we constantly strive to "feel good about ourselves." We want to look in the mirror and feel beautiful. It doesn't matter if our spouses tell us daily we're beautiful. If our friends tell us that we're amazing. It simply doesn't matter, because all that matters to us is how we feel about ourselves. That's hard.
Any who knows me, knows that for the majority of my life, I've struggled with my weight. I was "skinny" in high school - but I still wasn't confident in my body. I've never been athletic or toned. But I've always been me. Fast forward several years to an unstable relationship full of stress and drama, and a diagnosis with PCOS, and the weight piled on. For a girl with a 5'4" frame - pushing 200 lbs is unhealthy. I went to see my primary doctor, and she told me at 27 years old, that if I didn't do something to get the weight OFF, I'd be a pre-diabetic by the time I was 28. Ouch. I did really well for a couple of years, and managed to lose 25 lbs. That's not terrible, I guess, and in my heart, I know I have to be proud of *that* accomplishment.
However - today, I went shopping on my lunch break, and as I stood in the mirror of TJ Maxx with tears streaming down my face, I realized that I had another change to make. I've allowed life to get in the way of ME, and my health.
Last week in church, Pastor Robert Morris preached on "Taking Care of the Temple." You can listen to his sermon here... Taking Care of the Temple. However, something he said really hit home for me. If I don't take care of the body that God created for me, and take care of God's temple, then this body may shut down before I've achieved the plan that God has set for me. What would that leave me with then? I have an amazing set of friends and family that I know will be supportive in this journey to lose the next 25 lbs. I know that if I want to have children in the next few years, getting this weight off is imperative to allowing me to have a natural birth like I want. More than that, I want to look in the mirror every day and be proud of the body standing before me. I don't want to look in the mirror and see a woman with tears in her eyes looking back at me, but a woman who is proud of the work she's achieved.
So after stealing an idea from Mandy over at Music and Baseball, I've decided that each Friday, starting with NEXT week (hold me to this followers!) I will post a Fitness Friday post with a recap of where I'm at, what progress I made for the week, what my progress will be *hopefully* for the next week, etc. I'm holding myself accountable, and I hope you'll help hold me accountable too. Call me out if I don't post. I can handle it.
So after stealing an idea from Mandy over at Music and Baseball, I've decided that each Friday, starting with NEXT week (hold me to this followers!) I will post a Fitness Friday post with a recap of where I'm at, what progress I made for the week, what my progress will be *hopefully* for the next week, etc. I'm holding myself accountable, and I hope you'll help hold me accountable too. Call me out if I don't post. I can handle it.
Saturday, June 1, 2013
June Goals
Who needs an introduction... I mean, who reads these things any way besides me?! Goals are such a touchy subject for me, because I feel ridiculously vulnerable if I don't get them accomplished. Either I'm setting myself up for failure each and every month, or I'm going into this knowing that the likelihood of accomplishing each of these is slim. Luckily, June is *so far* a pretty light month in terms of plans. We'll see.
Health
1. Continue with my weekly workout routine. A minimum of 3 work outs per week, no matter how small.
2. DRINK MORE WATER! Another *must* do goal!
3. Start and finish the Advocare 24 Day Challenge.
Home
1. Make a minimum of one new recipe per week for dinner. Healthy!
2. Menu plan, and stick to it.
3. Bring lunch to work a minimum of 3 days a week.
4. Grocery shop on the weekends, or Thursday evening.
Personal
1. Sign up for professional pictures. Pick a date with Shani.
2. Read two + books for fun.
3. Accomplish 3 items from my 101 things list.
4. Accomplish 10 items from my "running" to do list.
Health
1. Continue with my weekly workout routine. A minimum of 3 work outs per week, no matter how small.
2. DRINK MORE WATER! Another *must* do goal!
3. Start and finish the Advocare 24 Day Challenge.
Home
1. Make a minimum of one new recipe per week for dinner. Healthy!
2. Menu plan, and stick to it.
3. Bring lunch to work a minimum of 3 days a week.
4. Grocery shop on the weekends, or Thursday evening.
Personal
1. Sign up for professional pictures. Pick a date with Shani.
2. Read two + books for fun.
3. Accomplish 3 items from my 101 things list.
4. Accomplish 10 items from my "running" to do list.
May Goals - Recap
May has been the most insane month EVER! With turning 30, finals, a charity event, two races, Mother's Day, etc. I have been lucky to sleep. Needless to say, my May "accomplished" goals reflect that.
Health
1. Continue with my weekly workout routine. A minimum of 5 work outs per week, no matter how small.
2. DRINK MORE WATER! Another *must* do goal!
3. Start and finish the Advocare 24 Day Challenge.
Home
1. Make a minimum of one new recipe per week for dinner. Healthy!
2. Menu plan, and stick to it.
3. Bring lunch to work a minimum of 3 days a week.
4. Grocery shop on the weekends, or Thursday evening.
Personal
1. Sign up for professional pictures. Pick a date with Shani. I did send Shani an e-mail about pricing. I haven't heard back from her, and her website isn't working. Still waiting on this one.
2. Read two + books for fun. Yay for finishing this one! Look for book reviews. :o) I read A Girl, A Guy, and A Ghost by Patricia Mason and Gifted: A Donovan Circus Novel by Liz Long.
3. Accomplish 3 items from my 101 things list. I accomplished TWO things from my 101 things list, but that wasn't the goal. So I'm making this one as incomplete as well.
4. Accomplish 10 items from my "running" to do list. I did actually manage to accomplish this one! Yay!
Health
1. Continue with my weekly workout routine. A minimum of 5 work outs per week, no matter how small.
2. DRINK MORE WATER! Another *must* do goal!
3. Start and finish the Advocare 24 Day Challenge.
Home
1. Make a minimum of one new recipe per week for dinner. Healthy!
2. Menu plan, and stick to it.
3. Bring lunch to work a minimum of 3 days a week.
4. Grocery shop on the weekends, or Thursday evening.
Personal
1. Sign up for professional pictures. Pick a date with Shani. I did send Shani an e-mail about pricing. I haven't heard back from her, and her website isn't working. Still waiting on this one.
3. Accomplish 3 items from my 101 things list. I accomplished TWO things from my 101 things list, but that wasn't the goal. So I'm making this one as incomplete as well.
Tuesday, May 28, 2013
Memorial Day Weekend Recap
I always feel such a sense of peace after a relaxing weekend, and this one was just what the doctor (had I seen one) ordered. Every single weekend so far in May has been jammed packed full of activities, and we were always GO, GO, GO! So with Memorial Day and a three day weekend on the horizon, I vowed to make no plans. And it was glorious.
Friday morning started out with news that my dear cousin Jessica and her husband Daniel welcomed their 2nd son, Jonah Grey, into the world.
Friday night - Alex and I wanted to go to Grapevine and watch their Friday night fireworks. We're on a mission to do more "cheap" and "free" activities around the metroplex and save our pennies for a major cross country move in the next two years. We ventured towards Grapevine to have dinner before the show. God had other plans, and decided that rain was more urgent, so the fireworks show was rained out. We ended up grabbing a bite to eat at Anamia's in Southlake, and headed home to enjoy the rain.
Saturday - I actually got to sleep in! Happy day! :o) Saturday was spent cleaning and straightening up the apartment. We did make a quick run to Urban Acres to pick up some fresh organic produce, some homemade bread, and some ice cream.
Sunday - church. Can I just say how much I looooooooooooove our church? I'm so happy and thankful that I finally found a church home. It's just incredible. After church, we went home, changed clothes, I ran out to get a few groceries, then Alex & I went to the Army Navy Store and to get a sno cone! That man sure knows the way to my heart on a hot day.
Monday - where do I begin?! I'm embarrassed to tell this part of the story, but it's one that needs to be told. I had never in 30 years been to a Memorial Day ceremony at the DFW National Cemetery. I was able to change that yesterday. I vow to make it an annual tradition to start Memorial Day by remembering the reason we have the day off work. I've always said a prayer for the fallen heroes and try to remember them every day, but the opportunity to hear a 21 cannon salute and to hear the trumpets play taps was just incredible. I'm thankful that Alex is one of those people who holds his fallen brothers and sisters dear to his heart. It's just the kind of person he is. And more than that - I'm thankful that he chooses on a daily basis to share this part of his life with me. I'm forever in awe and inspired by his heart.
After the ceremony, we came home, and took a short nap. When we woke up, we packed up the dog and headed to Rockledge Park on Lake Grapevine for a quick hike. That's another post for another day, because it's a rant.
Needless to say - the weekend was a great one.
Monday, May 20, 2013
Saying Goodbye to my 20s...
Well, it's about that time. In less than 24 hours, I will officially be 30. It's relatively bittersweet. I mean, who wants to get older? But, I guess having a birthday is much better than the alternative of leaving this world behind. So I'll embrace it, celebrate another milestone, and look forward to my 30s. I mean, after all, 30s are the new 20s, right?!
In the meantime, I have to reflect on what my 20s brought me, what I've managed to accomplish, and where I'm going from here.
Let's see...
4 degrees... well, almost. I'm 6 months away from degree #4.
1 marriage and 1 divorce. Yay!
1 amazing man met
1 fantastic relationship as a result
1 beautiful little dog
1 Mercedes purchased (it was my dream car, after all)
2 states lived in, countless moves
3 trips to Colorado
1 trip to Vegas to hang with some amazing women
An amazing relationship with God
Countless friendships
Confidence that I've never had before
A sense of direction
The ability to see the good in almost all situations
In the meantime, I have to reflect on what my 20s brought me, what I've managed to accomplish, and where I'm going from here.
Let's see...
4 degrees... well, almost. I'm 6 months away from degree #4.
1 marriage and 1 divorce. Yay!
1 amazing man met
1 fantastic relationship as a result
1 beautiful little dog
1 Mercedes purchased (it was my dream car, after all)
2 states lived in, countless moves
3 trips to Colorado
1 trip to Vegas to hang with some amazing women
An amazing relationship with God
Countless friendships
Confidence that I've never had before
A sense of direction
The ability to see the good in almost all situations
Monday, May 6, 2013
Weekend Recap
All I can say is man, I'm exhausted. But... it was one of the most fun-filled, jam packed weekends I've had in a REALLY long time, and I loved every single minute of it.
After working a pretty stressful week with Sky Chefs and experiencing my first close with them, I was thankful for a weekend of FUN.
On Friday night, Alex and I went to Mattito's for some BOB ARMSTRONG dip (think queso on steroids) and then off to AMC to see Iron Man 3. Since I haven't seen Iron Man 1 or 2, I really didn't have much to compare the movie to, but I really liked it. Alex said it was the worst of the three, so now I need to find time to watch the first two! :o)
Saturday morning involved sleeping late (woo hoo!!), having dinner at Twisted Root, and heading to see game #2 of the Rangers vs. the Boston Red Sox. Of which the Rangers swept the series, I might add! I bought us tickets because I know how much Alex loves baseball, and how much he likes the Red Sox. It just made sense.
Sunday was an amazing day. I woke up early and went to do the Heels n Hills 10K with my bestie, Carie. Came home, jumped in the shower real quick, headed off to church to hear a message about worry and anxiety. Um, hello God, I know I needed that message! Came home, relaxed for a couple of hours, then headed to Music Hall at Fair Park to watch WICKED! :o) Alex surprised me with tickets for my birthday. We had a blast. It was amazing watching the musical that close, seeing all the pieces of the costumes and the stage, and just being close to the action.
I have to say this - I have an amazing man in my life. I mentioned one time a couple of months ago about seeing Wicked while it was in Dallas, and then honestly, forgot all about it. He's amazing to me, and I couldn't be more proud to be his girl. In all of my life, I never thought a love like this could exist. I never thought being this in sync with another person was possible, but I'm grateful and beyond thankful that it is, and more than that, that God brought us together in the most unexpected way.
After working a pretty stressful week with Sky Chefs and experiencing my first close with them, I was thankful for a weekend of FUN.
On Friday night, Alex and I went to Mattito's for some BOB ARMSTRONG dip (think queso on steroids) and then off to AMC to see Iron Man 3. Since I haven't seen Iron Man 1 or 2, I really didn't have much to compare the movie to, but I really liked it. Alex said it was the worst of the three, so now I need to find time to watch the first two! :o)
Saturday morning involved sleeping late (woo hoo!!), having dinner at Twisted Root, and heading to see game #2 of the Rangers vs. the Boston Red Sox. Of which the Rangers swept the series, I might add! I bought us tickets because I know how much Alex loves baseball, and how much he likes the Red Sox. It just made sense.
Sunday was an amazing day. I woke up early and went to do the Heels n Hills 10K with my bestie, Carie. Came home, jumped in the shower real quick, headed off to church to hear a message about worry and anxiety. Um, hello God, I know I needed that message! Came home, relaxed for a couple of hours, then headed to Music Hall at Fair Park to watch WICKED! :o) Alex surprised me with tickets for my birthday. We had a blast. It was amazing watching the musical that close, seeing all the pieces of the costumes and the stage, and just being close to the action.
I have to say this - I have an amazing man in my life. I mentioned one time a couple of months ago about seeing Wicked while it was in Dallas, and then honestly, forgot all about it. He's amazing to me, and I couldn't be more proud to be his girl. In all of my life, I never thought a love like this could exist. I never thought being this in sync with another person was possible, but I'm grateful and beyond thankful that it is, and more than that, that God brought us together in the most unexpected way.
Monday, April 29, 2013
Women at War
Today is an exceptional day. Today starts the group bible study of Women at War by Jan Greenwood over at The Beautiful Deep. I had the privilege of hearing Jan speak during the 2013 Pink Impact Conference, and I couldn't be more excited to embark in this journey of self discovery and forgiveness of those negative relationships with other women.
I think as women, we are constantly in competition with one another. So much so, that in the progress, we're tearing each other down too. I'd like to invite anyone and everyone who is interested in joining this study to hop on over to The Beautiful Deep to sign up. It's all online, so there are no excuses of not being to show up somewhere to participate.
Amazon has the Kindle edition for $9.99. Make the investment, and let's start a revolution together!
I think as women, we are constantly in competition with one another. So much so, that in the progress, we're tearing each other down too. I'd like to invite anyone and everyone who is interested in joining this study to hop on over to The Beautiful Deep to sign up. It's all online, so there are no excuses of not being to show up somewhere to participate.
Amazon has the Kindle edition for $9.99. Make the investment, and let's start a revolution together!
Friday, April 26, 2013
The difference a year can make...
It's funny how someone who was just a stranger last year, can mean so much to you now. It's terrible that someone who meant so much to you last year, can be just a stranger now. It's amazing what a year can do.
I've thought about taking this blog down numerous times over the past 10 months, but I kept coming back to the fact that this blog is mine, and I don't care who reads it. I don't care who knows how wonderful things have become, what amazing things have happened to me since the separation and divorce, how much I've bounced back and became the girl I always was inside. You see, when a person is unhappy with their life and their marriage, they become a bitter shell. It's a miserable way to live, but it was my life for the past several years.
As I quickly, and I mean quickly, approach the anniversary of my birth almost 30 years ago, I'm reminded how lucky I am, how much love and support I have in my life, how the smile of one man can change my day, how amazing I am at the blessings I've been handed by God, and how powerful His work is in my life.
Every day is a precious. Every day, every single moment, is a moment to be cherished. In the past year, I've really learned what kind of person I am, and more than that, the kind of person I want to become. In honor of my approaching 30th birthday, I wanted to do several lists of "30." This list of 30 is a "tribute" to the amazing changes and growth personally over the last year.
1. God, church, and my ever changing relationship with both. I made a promise to God standing in the court room fighting with Marcus over Chloe that if he'd just let me get through this and keep Chloe, I'd find my way back to church. It took me a couple of months after all said and done, but I have been faithfully attending church at Gateway and studying the Bible. I'm thankful for God's many blessings in my life.
2. Alex. About 7 months ago, I met my "hottie neighbor guy" (HNG to all of my friends). He is, without a doubt, the man of my dreams. So much so, that sometimes I swear we share a brain. I always joke with him that "my half of the brain" would like to do this, or think this, separately from his side. I've never met another person who knows what I'm thinking even before I do, who finishes my thoughts, who thinks the same as me most of the time. I don't know if I believed in soul mates before him, but I most certainly do now. I've never loved another person the way I love him. I can remember telling Mom very early on, but not knowing if he felt the same way. But... he most certainly does, and it's been an amazing journey. I can't wait for many more minutes, hours, days, months, and years with him.
4. Carie. When times get tough, you find out who your real friends are. She's a real friend, a trooper, my shoulder to cry on, the friend I laugh with, the sister I never had. "She's my person. If I murdered someone, she's the person I'd call to help me drag the corpse across the living room floor. She's my person." ~ Grey's Anatomy
5. Our new car! It's a beauty. I mean, come on, it's a 2013 Mercedes Benz C250 in bright red. WITH RED SEAT BELTS! It was always my dream car. We signed the papers on it 1/29/2013.
6. The fact that I'm one step closer, one semester closer, to finishing my second Master's degree. And, I have an amazing support system that has yet to stop cheering for me, every single step of the way.
7. A new career, with a new company. I never thought I'd be in this role, pursuing this dream. But I love it.
8. My silly pup. I don't know what I'd do without her. But more than that, I love the relationship that she has with Alex. They are pretty much inseparable. It's the sweetest thing, EVER!
9. Building a closer relationship with Matt. He lives close now. Even though we're scheduled to move in 4 months, it's nice knowing he's there. And we are there for him.
10. A re-connection with a dear old friend. Meridith, I'm talking about you. I can't wait to be a huge part of Morgan & Mercer's lives, and watch those sweet baby boys grow up. I'm just sorry it took me so long.
11. Me. I'm thankful for me. For my outlook on life, for my appreciation of those around me, for being able to say I love you, I appreciate you, I cherish you to the people who deserve to hear it the most.
12. I'm over the moon excited for all the engagements, weddings, pregnancy announcements, and BIRTHS that show up on my Facebook page on a daily basis. It's miraculous that so many wonderful things are happening to so many amazing people.
13. To live in a state that surrounded West, Texas after their MASSIVE fertilizer plant explosion with an outpouring of love, life, funds, blood, tears, support, etc. It's an inspiring thing when Carter Blood Care announces that they have too many blood donations and would like for individuals to wait until summer months when they need it most. Or, when the Mayor of West announces that they simply can't hold anymore physical donations. That, my friends, is awesome.
14. For the opportunity to attend Pink Impact 2013. Inspiring. Empowering. Amazing. Can't wait for 2014. I can't say enough about this experience. Expect another blog post on that one. :-)
15. To be excited for the future. To look forward to tomorrow. To just be in awe of His blessings.
16. To be able to get out of the house and go places, to be able to travel, experience new things. THREE TRIPS IN THREE MONTHS! Now, that's what I'm talking about. :-)
17. For the opportunity to finally meet some of Alex's family in June. I can't wait.
18. For being down to one car right now. It means that we're sharing a car, and Alex is taking me to work most mornings. It's a logistical nightmare, but I love having that extra time with him before work.
19. To have been able to distinguish the "friends" who were there for the drama from the "FRIENDS" that are there through thick and thin. It's awesome to really know who your friends are.
20. To know that I can make it on my own.
21. To finally feel confidence in myself, my skin, my appearance, my abilities. I've never had this before, but it's good. Confidence is an amazing thing that can take you through so much.
22. To have experienced a shift in my priorities. It used to be that I hated coming home, I'd rather put my heart and soul into being the best I could be at work. That meant I put a lot of stress on myself professionally. And while I'm still very professionally minded, my priorities have changed. My relationships are way more important, and I dare say that I love coming home at night.
23. I'm content with where I am in life. This quote says it best... "To be content doesn't mean you don't desire more, it means you're thankful for what you have and patient for what's to come." ~ Tony Gaskins
24. For my ability to smile more, find the goodness in the little things, and to look at the stars more at night.
25. To be making progress on my 101 things to do in 1001 days! It's silly, but this is the second time I've started it. I don't think I accomplished more than 10 items on the first list.
26. To be excited about doing 30 "kind" things for others in the next 14 days. I got this idea from Rachel (yay Rachel!) and she did the same as she approached her 30th. I'm hoping to start this weekend. Let the brainstorming begin.
27. To finally be happy. Happiness is the greatest thing in the world.
28. Struggling with the possibility of infertility has always been next to impossible for me. But it doesn't seem so big anymore. If it happens, GREAT. If not, I'm not any less loved, and I don't feel broken anymore. It's strange, but it's awesome too.
29. That I'm starting to find forgiveness in my heart for the past. Not being able to forgive doesn't hurt the person who needs forgiveness, it hinders my development as a person. So I'm learning...
30. To finally be able to start embracing 30. I mean, I can't change the inevitable and I'd much rather turn 30 than the alternative. 29 was the most amazing year, and I can only believe that 30 and beyond will be that much better. Here's to enjoying the next two weeks in my 20s, and bringing in 30 with a bang!
I've thought about taking this blog down numerous times over the past 10 months, but I kept coming back to the fact that this blog is mine, and I don't care who reads it. I don't care who knows how wonderful things have become, what amazing things have happened to me since the separation and divorce, how much I've bounced back and became the girl I always was inside. You see, when a person is unhappy with their life and their marriage, they become a bitter shell. It's a miserable way to live, but it was my life for the past several years.
As I quickly, and I mean quickly, approach the anniversary of my birth almost 30 years ago, I'm reminded how lucky I am, how much love and support I have in my life, how the smile of one man can change my day, how amazing I am at the blessings I've been handed by God, and how powerful His work is in my life.
Every day is a precious. Every day, every single moment, is a moment to be cherished. In the past year, I've really learned what kind of person I am, and more than that, the kind of person I want to become. In honor of my approaching 30th birthday, I wanted to do several lists of "30." This list of 30 is a "tribute" to the amazing changes and growth personally over the last year.
1. God, church, and my ever changing relationship with both. I made a promise to God standing in the court room fighting with Marcus over Chloe that if he'd just let me get through this and keep Chloe, I'd find my way back to church. It took me a couple of months after all said and done, but I have been faithfully attending church at Gateway and studying the Bible. I'm thankful for God's many blessings in my life.
2. Alex. About 7 months ago, I met my "hottie neighbor guy" (HNG to all of my friends). He is, without a doubt, the man of my dreams. So much so, that sometimes I swear we share a brain. I always joke with him that "my half of the brain" would like to do this, or think this, separately from his side. I've never met another person who knows what I'm thinking even before I do, who finishes my thoughts, who thinks the same as me most of the time. I don't know if I believed in soul mates before him, but I most certainly do now. I've never loved another person the way I love him. I can remember telling Mom very early on, but not knowing if he felt the same way. But... he most certainly does, and it's been an amazing journey. I can't wait for many more minutes, hours, days, months, and years with him.
3. My Mom. This woman has always been my rock. The cheers I heard when I told her about the divorce could be heard around the world. I am thankful for my changing relationship with her. I've learned to see her differently, to reach out to her when I needed her, and to not be afraid to ask for help. "The more I grow, the more I realize that my mom is the best best friend that I ever had."
4. Carie. When times get tough, you find out who your real friends are. She's a real friend, a trooper, my shoulder to cry on, the friend I laugh with, the sister I never had. "She's my person. If I murdered someone, she's the person I'd call to help me drag the corpse across the living room floor. She's my person." ~ Grey's Anatomy
5. Our new car! It's a beauty. I mean, come on, it's a 2013 Mercedes Benz C250 in bright red. WITH RED SEAT BELTS! It was always my dream car. We signed the papers on it 1/29/2013.
6. The fact that I'm one step closer, one semester closer, to finishing my second Master's degree. And, I have an amazing support system that has yet to stop cheering for me, every single step of the way.
7. A new career, with a new company. I never thought I'd be in this role, pursuing this dream. But I love it.
8. My silly pup. I don't know what I'd do without her. But more than that, I love the relationship that she has with Alex. They are pretty much inseparable. It's the sweetest thing, EVER!
9. Building a closer relationship with Matt. He lives close now. Even though we're scheduled to move in 4 months, it's nice knowing he's there. And we are there for him.
10. A re-connection with a dear old friend. Meridith, I'm talking about you. I can't wait to be a huge part of Morgan & Mercer's lives, and watch those sweet baby boys grow up. I'm just sorry it took me so long.
11. Me. I'm thankful for me. For my outlook on life, for my appreciation of those around me, for being able to say I love you, I appreciate you, I cherish you to the people who deserve to hear it the most.
12. I'm over the moon excited for all the engagements, weddings, pregnancy announcements, and BIRTHS that show up on my Facebook page on a daily basis. It's miraculous that so many wonderful things are happening to so many amazing people.
13. To live in a state that surrounded West, Texas after their MASSIVE fertilizer plant explosion with an outpouring of love, life, funds, blood, tears, support, etc. It's an inspiring thing when Carter Blood Care announces that they have too many blood donations and would like for individuals to wait until summer months when they need it most. Or, when the Mayor of West announces that they simply can't hold anymore physical donations. That, my friends, is awesome.
14. For the opportunity to attend Pink Impact 2013. Inspiring. Empowering. Amazing. Can't wait for 2014. I can't say enough about this experience. Expect another blog post on that one. :-)
15. To be excited for the future. To look forward to tomorrow. To just be in awe of His blessings.
16. To be able to get out of the house and go places, to be able to travel, experience new things. THREE TRIPS IN THREE MONTHS! Now, that's what I'm talking about. :-)
17. For the opportunity to finally meet some of Alex's family in June. I can't wait.
18. For being down to one car right now. It means that we're sharing a car, and Alex is taking me to work most mornings. It's a logistical nightmare, but I love having that extra time with him before work.
19. To have been able to distinguish the "friends" who were there for the drama from the "FRIENDS" that are there through thick and thin. It's awesome to really know who your friends are.
20. To know that I can make it on my own.
21. To finally feel confidence in myself, my skin, my appearance, my abilities. I've never had this before, but it's good. Confidence is an amazing thing that can take you through so much.
22. To have experienced a shift in my priorities. It used to be that I hated coming home, I'd rather put my heart and soul into being the best I could be at work. That meant I put a lot of stress on myself professionally. And while I'm still very professionally minded, my priorities have changed. My relationships are way more important, and I dare say that I love coming home at night.
23. I'm content with where I am in life. This quote says it best... "To be content doesn't mean you don't desire more, it means you're thankful for what you have and patient for what's to come." ~ Tony Gaskins
24. For my ability to smile more, find the goodness in the little things, and to look at the stars more at night.
25. To be making progress on my 101 things to do in 1001 days! It's silly, but this is the second time I've started it. I don't think I accomplished more than 10 items on the first list.
26. To be excited about doing 30 "kind" things for others in the next 14 days. I got this idea from Rachel (yay Rachel!) and she did the same as she approached her 30th. I'm hoping to start this weekend. Let the brainstorming begin.
27. To finally be happy. Happiness is the greatest thing in the world.
29. That I'm starting to find forgiveness in my heart for the past. Not being able to forgive doesn't hurt the person who needs forgiveness, it hinders my development as a person. So I'm learning...
30. To finally be able to start embracing 30. I mean, I can't change the inevitable and I'd much rather turn 30 than the alternative. 29 was the most amazing year, and I can only believe that 30 and beyond will be that much better. Here's to enjoying the next two weeks in my 20s, and bringing in 30 with a bang!
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