Saturday, November 29, 2014
Monday, November 17, 2014
My Journey to a Better Me
What a difference a year makes. You know the saying, “A year
from now you’ll wish you’d started today”? Well, I’m thankful that, for the
first time in years, I don’t have to look back wishing. This time last year, I
was in a worried place. My step-dad was diagnosed with cancer in September, and
it opened my eyes to what my own health looked like. I had struggled for years
with migraines, gut health, and my weight. After exploratory surgery years ago
came back with no answers, I threw my hands up in defeat thinking I was doomed
to feel crummy for the rest of my life. I gave up trying. But, there was
something about seeing a family member in pain that finally gave me a sense of
urgency in getting my own health in check. I started researching what I could
do to help myself get in a better place. I started drinking a green smoothie
every day, which seemed to really help… at first. My body just didn’t seem to
want to adapt. I reached out to friends who had recently worked hard to get to
a positive place to see what changes they’d made. I can honestly say I was skeptical
anything would work for me. I was at the end of my rope with my migraines and GI
issues. Years of struggle had caused me to feel like I had no control over my
body. What I found last year is that being at the end of your rope will cause
you to take a leap of faith sometimes. After a couple of months of research and
many emails, I bit the bullet and ordered the Advocare 24-day challenge. Why
did I choose Advocare? First, the challenge was a catalyst to a lifestyle
change. I needed to make changes in my life, and I knew I couldn’t do it on my
own. I’d tried before. I needed a support system, and I needed something I
could continue long term. So, I took a chance. And, for me, it was the best
chance I could have ever taken. When I finally decided I was ready, I knew I
didn’t want to wait until the new year to make changes. The time was now, and
honestly, I was afraid I’d chicken out if I waited. So, I started the challenge
on December 7, the day after my company holiday party, and I have not looked
back since. Over the next three months, I lost 20 pounds, could get through an
entire meal without feeling sick, and very rarely got the migraines that used
to plague me. After yet another family member was struck with cancer, I decided
to do something absolutely out of my comfort zone and signed up to run the NYC
Marathon for charity. And, on November 2nd, I completed that
marathon with the biggest smile on my face. I can honestly say I could not have
gone on that journey without Advocare. After months of eating clean 80% of the
time, I was the healthiest I had been in years and in the best possible place I
could be to begin training. Adding the performance elite products to my regimen
just upped the ante. So I’m sure many of you are wondering… Why am I just
sharing my story with you now? As I approach the one-year mark of my journey
with Advocare, I am reflecting on what this past year has brought to my life.
And, I’ve come to realize that what I needed most last year was a sense of
hope. I just needed the hope that
life could be better. And I am beyond thankful that my friend, Lauren, gave me
that hope a year ago, and now I feel the need to share it with you. I couldn’t think
of a better gift to give someone this holiday season. I'd love to chat with you more about my journey this past year and what I have planned for next year. I think I just may have found my voice again. XO
Friday, January 31, 2014
Is Anyone Out There?
Hello again, friends. I genuinely thought I would keep posting, but now more than a year has passed without a single word. I've sat here in front of a blank screen numerous times just paralyzed. Tracie mentioned recently that she felt like she lost her voice. The words rang through my ears as though I was saying them myself. It's such an odd feeling knowing you want to speak but there are just no words. So much has happened over the past year that I can't put words to, which makes it hard to post anything at all. I can't promise I'll find my voice anytime soon in this space, but I am beginning a new journey on my business blog. If you'd like to follow along there, I welcome you to join me!
Friday, January 18, 2013
2013: Brought In With a Bang!
I kind of left you hanging there. Honestly, I was having too much fun helping a friend's husband plan her 40th birthday extravaganza and then attending said weekend-long bash... and I'm now in a fully depressed state. Doesn't that always happen? You get so tied up in the fun of it all that, when the big party/event/thing is over, you just don't know what else to do with yourself. That would be me to a tee. I like to get emotionally involved with events, and boy am I deflated when it's back to reality.
So, who was this dear friend? Well. I can't wait to tell you the story. I've known Cyndi for about 4 years, I think. She is the sweetest girl you could imagine... always sending me the best notes (on blue and green cards, of course!) and surprise packages that just happen to come when I'm feeling a little blue and need a virtual hug. When I noticed she was planning a party on Pinterest, I immediately said, "What is this party for? And, I hope I'm invited!" She just happened to be stowing away inspiration for her upcoming 40th birthday. Naturally, I said, "Give your husband my info. Seriously. This is my thing." Soon after, I found myself on the phone with Cyndi's husband... stealing quick chats while she was in the shower, texting and emailing while she was distracted. Everything started to seem a little clandestine. Ha! I was very top secret and only reached out when absolutely necessary-- like when it came to attire. "Your husband said jeans and sweaters. Are you really on board with that?" All the while, I was telling her that I was so sad and disappointed I couldn't make it to the actual festivities. Little did she know that her husband and I schemed to have me there to surprise her... so we could meet for the very first time. That's right, folks. Cyndi was my "internet friend". I'm sure you have one, too. And, if your husband is anything like mine (or hers), then he probably shakes his head in confusion at the thought. Her husband and I had many a laugh at how much time he and I spent on the phone planning a party for someone I'd never actually spoken to in real life. Again... never talked to. In four years. We'd texted, emailed, sent gifts, but never did we actually speak. (For the record, I offered, but she was too chicken!) Let's say there were a few dropped jaws when we explained how we knew each other at the party. The best comment of the night was, "But your married. And heterosexual." I nearly died. Funniest thing ever.
I'm not going to say there weren't a few bumps along the way... canceled flights and rebooked tickets for three days later/the night before I was supposed to fly back, packages that arrived after I actually took off, a suitcase full of pink Izze-soaked clothes thanks to TSA, washing clothes at a stranger's house, superglue-stuck fingers, insomnia... but the good memories far outweigh the bad. I had an absolute blast, gained ten pounds eating all of the fabulous food that was lined up, found a pair of amazing pants for $2.44, got the best manicure ever, stayed at the Ritz, laughed, laughed, laughed and realized that this long-awaited meeting was too long in the making. Our friendship was sealed with this trip, and I am SO thankful I was able to be a part of such a special weekend for Cyndi. We realized that we just might be the same person. (It was getting kind of scary, actually.) By the end, I felt like I was a part of their family. It was truly an amazing experience. (I don't want to forget to mention that I met another fabulous girl on the trip-- Sarah of Cake for Breakfast! It was a good hour and a half into the party Friday night before I realized who she was... and she is a doll!)
Now that I've shared all of this with you, I am sure you'd like to see a few pics. I apologize for the iPhone pic quality. I left my nice camera at home at the last minute.
Pop, fizz, clink. Happy birthday, Cyndi Lou! I'm ecstatic to call you my friend. And, I'm so thankful for the internet.
So, who was this dear friend? Well. I can't wait to tell you the story. I've known Cyndi for about 4 years, I think. She is the sweetest girl you could imagine... always sending me the best notes (on blue and green cards, of course!) and surprise packages that just happen to come when I'm feeling a little blue and need a virtual hug. When I noticed she was planning a party on Pinterest, I immediately said, "What is this party for? And, I hope I'm invited!" She just happened to be stowing away inspiration for her upcoming 40th birthday. Naturally, I said, "Give your husband my info. Seriously. This is my thing." Soon after, I found myself on the phone with Cyndi's husband... stealing quick chats while she was in the shower, texting and emailing while she was distracted. Everything started to seem a little clandestine. Ha! I was very top secret and only reached out when absolutely necessary-- like when it came to attire. "Your husband said jeans and sweaters. Are you really on board with that?" All the while, I was telling her that I was so sad and disappointed I couldn't make it to the actual festivities. Little did she know that her husband and I schemed to have me there to surprise her... so we could meet for the very first time. That's right, folks. Cyndi was my "internet friend". I'm sure you have one, too. And, if your husband is anything like mine (or hers), then he probably shakes his head in confusion at the thought. Her husband and I had many a laugh at how much time he and I spent on the phone planning a party for someone I'd never actually spoken to in real life. Again... never talked to. In four years. We'd texted, emailed, sent gifts, but never did we actually speak. (For the record, I offered, but she was too chicken!) Let's say there were a few dropped jaws when we explained how we knew each other at the party. The best comment of the night was, "But your married. And heterosexual." I nearly died. Funniest thing ever.
I'm not going to say there weren't a few bumps along the way... canceled flights and rebooked tickets for three days later/the night before I was supposed to fly back, packages that arrived after I actually took off, a suitcase full of pink Izze-soaked clothes thanks to TSA, washing clothes at a stranger's house, superglue-stuck fingers, insomnia... but the good memories far outweigh the bad. I had an absolute blast, gained ten pounds eating all of the fabulous food that was lined up, found a pair of amazing pants for $2.44, got the best manicure ever, stayed at the Ritz, laughed, laughed, laughed and realized that this long-awaited meeting was too long in the making. Our friendship was sealed with this trip, and I am SO thankful I was able to be a part of such a special weekend for Cyndi. We realized that we just might be the same person. (It was getting kind of scary, actually.) By the end, I felt like I was a part of their family. It was truly an amazing experience. (I don't want to forget to mention that I met another fabulous girl on the trip-- Sarah of Cake for Breakfast! It was a good hour and a half into the party Friday night before I realized who she was... and she is a doll!)
Now that I've shared all of this with you, I am sure you'd like to see a few pics. I apologize for the iPhone pic quality. I left my nice camera at home at the last minute.
Pop, fizz, clink. Happy birthday, Cyndi Lou! I'm ecstatic to call you my friend. And, I'm so thankful for the internet.
Sunday, November 25, 2012
A Time of Reflection
As many of you are, I've been spending the past few days reflecting. It's so easy to get caught up in the day to day worries and happenings. While I'd like to say I'm a thankful person, sometimes we all need a reminder. The past couple months have been hard. I must admit, I've been telling myself, "It could be worse!" A pin that I kept seeing crop up mentioned, "That thing you're taking for granted, someone else is praying for." How true it is!
I am thankful...
... that my doggie's cancer has not compromised her quality of life and that she's still with us.
... that, while Finley's specialist visit wasn't a success, you would never guess he is struggling.
... that, while family is far away, we were able to host Thanksgiving for wonderful friends.
... for a glimpse into what life would be like with three kids. Whoa. That is all.
... Finley is such a caring little boy.
... for a husband who is an amazing father.
... for my dysfunctional family.
... for the ability to cut down our own Christmas tree every year.
... my husband was in agreement about downsizing said tree this year! No more 13+ foot trees!
... for conversations with my grandparents, despite the grip Alzheimer's has taken.
... I am loved for who I am, despite my flaws, mistakes and insecurities.
... for second chances.
... for the opportunity to build memories and family traditions.
... for laughter and heart-to-hearts.
... for reminders that it's okay if not everyone likes you.
... for reminders that it's okay to say no.
... for the opportunity to be a mentor and share these reminders with a boy who needs them.
... for phone calls with new friends.
... for parties and birthdays!
... for the generosity of people I've yet to meet.
... for the friendships I continue to make through this blog.
... for the forgiveness when I leave this blog dormant for a while.
I hope you all had a wonderful holiday and a little time to reflect. As we drove home from cutting our tree today, we listened to Christmas carols, and I was filled with such peace. It's amazing how recharging it is to thank the Lord for the things you do have, rather than reflecting on what you don't. Enjoy the rest of your weekend!
I am thankful...
... that my doggie's cancer has not compromised her quality of life and that she's still with us.
... that, while Finley's specialist visit wasn't a success, you would never guess he is struggling.
... that, while family is far away, we were able to host Thanksgiving for wonderful friends.
... for a glimpse into what life would be like with three kids. Whoa. That is all.
... Finley is such a caring little boy.
... for a husband who is an amazing father.
... for my dysfunctional family.
... for the ability to cut down our own Christmas tree every year.
... my husband was in agreement about downsizing said tree this year! No more 13+ foot trees!
... for conversations with my grandparents, despite the grip Alzheimer's has taken.
... I am loved for who I am, despite my flaws, mistakes and insecurities.
... for second chances.
... for the opportunity to build memories and family traditions.
... for laughter and heart-to-hearts.
... for reminders that it's okay if not everyone likes you.
... for reminders that it's okay to say no.
... for the opportunity to be a mentor and share these reminders with a boy who needs them.
... for phone calls with new friends.
... for parties and birthdays!
... for the generosity of people I've yet to meet.
... for the friendships I continue to make through this blog.
... for the forgiveness when I leave this blog dormant for a while.
I hope you all had a wonderful holiday and a little time to reflect. As we drove home from cutting our tree today, we listened to Christmas carols, and I was filled with such peace. It's amazing how recharging it is to thank the Lord for the things you do have, rather than reflecting on what you don't. Enjoy the rest of your weekend!
Sunday, October 28, 2012
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
It's eBay Time!
It's that time again... I'm starting a listing spree on eBay. I just relisted a couple pairs of boots and drastically lowered the price... practically brand new!! Check them out.
More to be listed this weekend... West Elm pillows, Garnet Hill queen duvet, purses, more shoes. I'm feeling the urge to purge.
Monday, October 22, 2012
The Results Are In...
Well. My doggie has had her surgery, and little man has seen the specialists. Unfortunately, neither visit had groundbreaking results. We found out Jill's mass was indeed cancer, and it will come back... at some point, who knows when. Until then, we wait and enjoy the time we have.
At Fin's appointment, we found out that the allergist was never scheduled, but the pulmonologist talked him into seeing us anyway. But, Fin was only tested for food allergies, not airborne ones, so we still have questions. Some things we did find out-- he's not allergic to peanuts, eggs, soy or shellfish. And, he doesn't have cystic fibrosis. After four and a half hours at the hospital, missing lunch and naptime, we had our highlight of the day-- eating at ChickfilA. If you know me at all, you know I cannot go to Denver without hitting up ChickfilA. So, while Fin slept, we got it to go and stuffed our faces in the parking lot. And, you better believe I got enough to have it for lunch the next day. I'm addicted, folks. Addicted.
In other news, we're having family pictures taken in a couple of weeks. Do you ever notice how your wardrobe suddenly seems completely boring and empty when you realize you're going to be documented for eternity in an outfit? And, none of Fin's pants fit. I bought him five new pair, and they're all huge. It's the story of his life. I'm scouring my Pinterest boards for ideas, but it's reminding me how stylish some moms are out there... and that my bank account does not need me to go on a spree.
And in even better news... I just heard that my friend, Steph, had her baby. The gender wait is finally over. But, I'll wait for her to end the suspense.
Monday, October 1, 2012
Ch- Ch- Changes
Whoa. Where did September go? Is anyone else feeling shocked and amazed that we're in the fourth quarter of 2012? It seems like it was just summer. Boo. This time of year always signals change for me. The falling leaves scream "winter is coming!!!" And, I am so not ready. In fact, last Monday, I wore flip flops despite the chilly weather. It was an act of defiance, for sure.
We had such a wild September. Fin had his last free flight when we went to visit my brother in Houston (or should I say, last 6 free flights?). We picked out furniture and slept on air mattresses. Sadly, we did not get a family pic... but Fin did get quite a haircut from my mom.
We celebrated Fin's second birthday. It was awesome having 11 two year-olds running around screaming... and even better it wasn't at my house. No clean up! Holla. The infamous polka-dot cake was a fail. If you follow me on Instagram, then you are well aware. I took pics along the way and was super excited until it fell with three minutes left. You can imagine my vocabulary at 1 in the morning when the replacement cupcakes were a disaster, too. Don't be fooled-- I love to bake. It's the dairy-free thing that's throwing me a curve-ball. The same thing happened last year. I'm bound and determined to have it mastered by birthday #3.
I ran the Denver Rock and Roll 1/2 marathon. I originally signed up for the full, but I came back down to reality during the summer and switched. Let me tell you... I am so thankful I chickened out. I wasn't even close to ready, my foot was acting up, and it was hot. After six miles, I was wishing it was a 10k. BUT-- I finished. Not only did I finish, but my time was faster than my last 1/2 in Steamboat (which isn't really saying much). This race was my first half marathon NOT in Steamboat and the first for me to run completely on pavement. I'm claiming it as a small victory. I would definitely recommend running a Rock and Roll race. They have the races down to a science, and there are so many people cheering you along the whole course. Lots of great signs... Worst parade ever was a good one. One of my faves was "I admire your endurance... call me!" with a real phone number listed. Priceless. Marathonfoto took loads of pictures, and I was smiling in every single one. You know something was right.
We capped off the month with some hard news to hear and some decisions to make. Just before our trip to Houston, we found out that one of our dogs needs surgery. Jill is 12 1/2 years old and my girlfriend. She came with me from Arkansas to Colorado, and I can't imagine her growing old. She still looks like a puppy. Unfortunately, a tumor on her leg has grown quite large after already being drained once. We went through a round of antibiotics to get rid of an infection, and now we're looking at round two. The vet won't do surgery to remove the tumor until the infection is gone, which means as soon as it's gone, she has to go in to avoid getting another one. They're afraid that they may have to amputate her leg. I know that if any dog can handle this it's my girl, Jill. For those of you that have been reading this blog for eons, you may remember she's already missing an eye. The vet warned us that the surgery may not get rid of the problem, but we've decided to move forward.
The other rough news is that we have to take Fin in to see specialists in Denver. His two year well-check appointment showed little weight gain, and with all of his ailments, we need to figure out what we need to do to turn this thing around. I started to get down about it, but then I decided that maybe this is exactly what he needs to be a rock star. One small victory-- he is finally on the charts for height. Yay! We'll take it.
One positive that is coming out of September-- all of the ups and downs have really made happy. It's kind of odd how going through rough patches makes you cherish the little things. I'm taking better care of me and enjoying every little moment.
We had such a wild September. Fin had his last free flight when we went to visit my brother in Houston (or should I say, last 6 free flights?). We picked out furniture and slept on air mattresses. Sadly, we did not get a family pic... but Fin did get quite a haircut from my mom.
 |
| From surfer... |
 |
| to rocker! |
 |
| Ignore the hideous provided decor behind our heads. |
I ran the Denver Rock and Roll 1/2 marathon. I originally signed up for the full, but I came back down to reality during the summer and switched. Let me tell you... I am so thankful I chickened out. I wasn't even close to ready, my foot was acting up, and it was hot. After six miles, I was wishing it was a 10k. BUT-- I finished. Not only did I finish, but my time was faster than my last 1/2 in Steamboat (which isn't really saying much). This race was my first half marathon NOT in Steamboat and the first for me to run completely on pavement. I'm claiming it as a small victory. I would definitely recommend running a Rock and Roll race. They have the races down to a science, and there are so many people cheering you along the whole course. Lots of great signs... Worst parade ever was a good one. One of my faves was "I admire your endurance... call me!" with a real phone number listed. Priceless. Marathonfoto took loads of pictures, and I was smiling in every single one. You know something was right.
We capped off the month with some hard news to hear and some decisions to make. Just before our trip to Houston, we found out that one of our dogs needs surgery. Jill is 12 1/2 years old and my girlfriend. She came with me from Arkansas to Colorado, and I can't imagine her growing old. She still looks like a puppy. Unfortunately, a tumor on her leg has grown quite large after already being drained once. We went through a round of antibiotics to get rid of an infection, and now we're looking at round two. The vet won't do surgery to remove the tumor until the infection is gone, which means as soon as it's gone, she has to go in to avoid getting another one. They're afraid that they may have to amputate her leg. I know that if any dog can handle this it's my girl, Jill. For those of you that have been reading this blog for eons, you may remember she's already missing an eye. The vet warned us that the surgery may not get rid of the problem, but we've decided to move forward.
The other rough news is that we have to take Fin in to see specialists in Denver. His two year well-check appointment showed little weight gain, and with all of his ailments, we need to figure out what we need to do to turn this thing around. I started to get down about it, but then I decided that maybe this is exactly what he needs to be a rock star. One small victory-- he is finally on the charts for height. Yay! We'll take it.
One positive that is coming out of September-- all of the ups and downs have really made happy. It's kind of odd how going through rough patches makes you cherish the little things. I'm taking better care of me and enjoying every little moment.
Wednesday, September 5, 2012
Mind on the Run
It's 20 past two... in the morning. I can't sleep. My mind just keeps running and running. Does that ever happen to you? I've been dealing with this a lot lately.
Today, my little guy had his first day of class in the two year old room. I suddenly realized that his birthday party is next weekend, and I have done very little in the way of planning... considering we just decided to have a party two weeks ago. I've reserved space and sent out invites, but that is it. Oh... and we leave Thursday for Houston. Yikes. Time to get on it. The "theme" of his party is loosely based on the fact that it is being held at a bounce house.
We sent out these invites from Brightside Prints. There are super adorable and not at all cheesy (unlike most bounce house themed invitations, thankfully).
I ordered this cute shirt for him to wear and had only his name added, no age. Again... on theme, but not too cheesy.
I'm thinking about serving foods that have a circular theme... like grapes, blueberries, watermelon balls, Ritz, other kid-friendly fare, etc. While I love this cake, I don't think it's practical for a bunch of two-year olds.
Instead, I'm thinking of doing something like this...
... possibly with this inside. How fun would that be?
We'll see how ambitious I get when I come down to a time crunch next week. I'll be sure to share pictures of the final product.
And here I told myself we weren't even going to throw a party... funny how that always seems to happen.
Today, my little guy had his first day of class in the two year old room. I suddenly realized that his birthday party is next weekend, and I have done very little in the way of planning... considering we just decided to have a party two weeks ago. I've reserved space and sent out invites, but that is it. Oh... and we leave Thursday for Houston. Yikes. Time to get on it. The "theme" of his party is loosely based on the fact that it is being held at a bounce house.
We sent out these invites from Brightside Prints. There are super adorable and not at all cheesy (unlike most bounce house themed invitations, thankfully).
Instead, I'm thinking of doing something like this...
... possibly with this inside. How fun would that be?
We'll see how ambitious I get when I come down to a time crunch next week. I'll be sure to share pictures of the final product.
And here I told myself we weren't even going to throw a party... funny how that always seems to happen.
Saturday, September 1, 2012
Catching Up
I figured now was as good a time as any to squeeze a post in... considering I've been lying awake for the past 3 1/2 hours. Funny how you can be exhausted and still not able to sleep.
Things have been quite busy around our house. With J working crazy hours, I haven't had much time to jump on the computer... and I crash and burn as soon as Finley does lately. One exciting tidbit-- J and I went on a date night last Saturday! Okay, so maybe that's just exciting for us. Seriously. It was huge. We got a sitter for the third time ever and went out to celebrate my birthday. It's been eons since we've really celebrated any birthdays, and since it fell on a weekend this year, I was not passing up the opportunity! I can see why we don't do it often (as in 3 times in 2 years often!). The sitter alone cost us $75. We've decided that we need to make an effort to do it at least once a quarter in order to keep our sanity... or maybe I decided that. Either way, I'm going to make it happen.
I didn't ask for much for my birthday. Actually, I only asked for a date night and a new iPod. I blaze through iPods like they're candy. After running my last half marathon with my iPhone, I knew it was time to break down and buy something smaller. Today, my brand new Nano arrived. I can't wait to start using it. I had planned to get a Shuffle because it clips on, but I couldn't pass up the (three times as expensive) Nano when I realized it clips on, too, and has radio capability. Plus, I like being able to have multiple playlists that I can choose from. If you order from Apple, you can have it engraved. My first choice was deemed inappropriate. Oops. (For inquiring minds, it was the blunt message, "Get off your ***.") I settled for "Shake your booty". Which leads me to...
Y'all... I have been to the gym four times this week. I mean, sweating so hard my vision is blurry. This is a miracle. Why am I telling you this? Because I think that hearing someone else is doing something to get in shape is motivating. My friend, Cyndi, set a walking goal for August. She posted pics on Instagram and updates on Facebook. Every time I saw her posts, I thought, "Why am I not doing something too?" Goals are good! So, if you think it's weird that I posted a view of me doing crunches on Instagram, too bad. It motivates me, and who knows, maybe it motivates someone else, too. Having someone to be accountable to makes me want to keep it up. Anyone want to join me in a shape up challenge? I'm not talking The Biggest Loser-- I'm talking accountability partners. Who's in? If you want, check out my workout board on Pinterest. I also have one for healthy eating. (Don't confuse it with the yum, cake, cookie and dessert boards. Those are deadly.) Do any of you have Pinterest boards related to healthy living? I'd love to know about them! Do you have songs you love to hear while working out? I need some new ones and am not up on all of the new stuff. Leave a comment with your favorites!
Next week, little man and I are traveling to visit my little brother in his new town-- Houston. Any readers from that area? I'm very excited for the trip. Since he graduated, he scored an engineering job there (making more than me straight out of gate!) and just made the move from AR last week. He asked me to come down to help him pick out furniture. Decorating with someone else's money-- how could I pass that up? My mom and step-dad are going to drive down for the visit, as well. I miss my family so much and cannot wait for this trip!
A couple of days ago, I finally made the effort to start listing some things on Ebay. This task has been on my list for a year now! I don't have everything up, but it's a good start. I have a few West Elm pillows to list still, my huge rubber stamp collection and more shoes. You'll notice the theme is never worn/used or used once or twice. Sad, but I'm finally letting go! I'm even parting ways with three pair of cowboy boots in awesome shape. If you're a reader and you bid on something, let me know! I'd love to hear from you. As I post more items, I'll drop a note here to give you a heads up first.
Now that the sun is up, I'm going to sign off. I hope all of you have a wonderful holiday weekend!
Things have been quite busy around our house. With J working crazy hours, I haven't had much time to jump on the computer... and I crash and burn as soon as Finley does lately. One exciting tidbit-- J and I went on a date night last Saturday! Okay, so maybe that's just exciting for us. Seriously. It was huge. We got a sitter for the third time ever and went out to celebrate my birthday. It's been eons since we've really celebrated any birthdays, and since it fell on a weekend this year, I was not passing up the opportunity! I can see why we don't do it often (as in 3 times in 2 years often!). The sitter alone cost us $75. We've decided that we need to make an effort to do it at least once a quarter in order to keep our sanity... or maybe I decided that. Either way, I'm going to make it happen.
I didn't ask for much for my birthday. Actually, I only asked for a date night and a new iPod. I blaze through iPods like they're candy. After running my last half marathon with my iPhone, I knew it was time to break down and buy something smaller. Today, my brand new Nano arrived. I can't wait to start using it. I had planned to get a Shuffle because it clips on, but I couldn't pass up the (three times as expensive) Nano when I realized it clips on, too, and has radio capability. Plus, I like being able to have multiple playlists that I can choose from. If you order from Apple, you can have it engraved. My first choice was deemed inappropriate. Oops. (For inquiring minds, it was the blunt message, "Get off your ***.") I settled for "Shake your booty". Which leads me to...
Y'all... I have been to the gym four times this week. I mean, sweating so hard my vision is blurry. This is a miracle. Why am I telling you this? Because I think that hearing someone else is doing something to get in shape is motivating. My friend, Cyndi, set a walking goal for August. She posted pics on Instagram and updates on Facebook. Every time I saw her posts, I thought, "Why am I not doing something too?" Goals are good! So, if you think it's weird that I posted a view of me doing crunches on Instagram, too bad. It motivates me, and who knows, maybe it motivates someone else, too. Having someone to be accountable to makes me want to keep it up. Anyone want to join me in a shape up challenge? I'm not talking The Biggest Loser-- I'm talking accountability partners. Who's in? If you want, check out my workout board on Pinterest. I also have one for healthy eating. (Don't confuse it with the yum, cake, cookie and dessert boards. Those are deadly.) Do any of you have Pinterest boards related to healthy living? I'd love to know about them! Do you have songs you love to hear while working out? I need some new ones and am not up on all of the new stuff. Leave a comment with your favorites!
Next week, little man and I are traveling to visit my little brother in his new town-- Houston. Any readers from that area? I'm very excited for the trip. Since he graduated, he scored an engineering job there (making more than me straight out of gate!) and just made the move from AR last week. He asked me to come down to help him pick out furniture. Decorating with someone else's money-- how could I pass that up? My mom and step-dad are going to drive down for the visit, as well. I miss my family so much and cannot wait for this trip!
A couple of days ago, I finally made the effort to start listing some things on Ebay. This task has been on my list for a year now! I don't have everything up, but it's a good start. I have a few West Elm pillows to list still, my huge rubber stamp collection and more shoes. You'll notice the theme is never worn/used or used once or twice. Sad, but I'm finally letting go! I'm even parting ways with three pair of cowboy boots in awesome shape. If you're a reader and you bid on something, let me know! I'd love to hear from you. As I post more items, I'll drop a note here to give you a heads up first.
Now that the sun is up, I'm going to sign off. I hope all of you have a wonderful holiday weekend!
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