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 2^nd, 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

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. 

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!

Source: fabulousk.com via Abbie | Girl Friday Events + Design on Pinterest

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. 

From surfer...

to rocker! 

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.  

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. 

A Year of Recovery

A year ago today, my hometown was rocked by the deadliest tornado in US history.  While a lot has been done in the past year, the road to recovery will be a long one.  I still tear up when I hear and think about the devastation.  I saw it in person six months after that tragic day, and the images are forever seared into my brain.

I watched bits and pieces of the President's speech during last night's high school commencement.  Whether you are a Democrat or a Republican, you would benefit from listening.  A few of his remarks struck a particular chord with me and had me in tears.  He quoted the senior class president when he commented on how the tragedy has brought the community together.  The community is now family with a renewed sense of pride.  When he said that some people may leave Joplin but Joplin will never leave them, I couldn't have agreed more.  No matter where I live Joplin will always be my hometown and will always be close to my heart.  What happened that fateful day a year ago is a reminder to me that life is too short, and the small stuff isn't worth fretting over.

Please take a moment today to remember the 161 community members that lost their lives that tragic day. 

Learning to Kick Butt While Taking Names Part 1: Alt Summit

Thursday morning kicked off a two-day panel/roundtable intensive at Alt.  I wasn't sure what to expect, but I was armed with my Minted journal and was prepared for some serious note-taking.  And, that's exactly what I did.

The way Alt works is they offer several different panels at the same time, and you pick which one to go to.  People pick panels for different reasons.  They make pick to attend a certain panel because it relates to their business, or they may pick another one because it's offering something new that they'd love to learn about.  I chose a healthy mix.

The first panel I attended was Site Design: Dos and Don'ts.  (The other panels at that time slot were Successful Collaborations and The Business of Blogging-- both of which I would to have attended.) The panel was made up of Alyssa Yuhas, Arianne Foulks, Christine Castro Hughes & Laurie Southwick.  I picked this panel to attend because I'm shoulder-deep in my biz site design right now.  It was reassuring to know I was moving in the right direction.  Here are a few takeaways:
-Make your site easy to understand
-Stick to only a few fonts to convey the right mood.
-Be intentional, clear and deliberate
-Use color to express yourself, but choose carefully and wisely
-White space is your friend.  It gives your site room to breathe. (And doesn't have to be white!)
-Off-the-shelf themes can make web design easy, but make it your own.
-Live by the rules!
-If you're feeling overwhelmed, hire it out!
The next panel I attended was Work/Life Balance.  I think we all could benefit from this topic!  The other two panels during this session were Building Relationships with Ad Networks & Sponsors and Best Tools for Managing Your Online Life.  I would have loved to sit in on the tools panel, but I don't deal with ads and sponsors much.  My panel was made up of Brooke Reynolds, Chrysula Winegar, Kathryn Storke Grady and Sarah Jane.   Here are few takeaways:
-What does work/life balance mean to you?  It's different for everyone and constantly changes.
-Focus: Stay on one page at a time.  In life and on the internet!
-Boundaries: Set what those are for you.
-Truth: It's okay to say no when you're honest with yourself.
-Luxuries: Celebrate the details in life that are outside the internet world.
-Addiction: Break up with the "go, go, go"
-Attitude: Lighten up!
-Communicate: Expectations, calendars, dreams.  With your friends, your significant other.  Anyone.
-You Time: Essential maintenance and renewal.  Make time for yourself.

The third panel I attended on Thursday was From Blog to Book.  The other two during this session were Runway + Streetstyle: Fashion Blogging 101 and What Small Sites Can Learn from Big Online Communities.  Honestly, I picked this panel because of the fabulous ladies who were on it.  It was made up of Amy Butler, Grace Bonney, Julia Rothman, Kate Woodrow and Lia Ronnen.  This was a very interesting session.  Obviously, I'm far from working out a book deal, but it was kind of cool to hear how it all plays out.  These are the topics that were discussed:
-The pitch
-Picking an agent and publisher
-Advances and contracts
-The creation
-Getting the word out

The last panel of the day for me was The Ins & Outs of Interior Design Blogging.  The other two panels during this session were Kickstarting Your Next Project and Blogging Ethics & Etiquette.  I would have loved to have attended all three. All of these panels had awesome presenters, so I was torn right up until I walked in the room.  This panel consisted of Emily Henderson, Jenny Komenda, Kirsten Grove, and Morgan Satterfield.  This panel was so much fun to listen to.  Morgan had me rolling.  She was hil-ar-ious.  This panel was all about how to get your interior designs out there, tips and tricks to make them better and keeping your style front and center.  It was a great way to end the day.

I apologize for the lack of pics.  The post refused to save when I added them in.

{Stay tuned for recaps on panels from Friday, keynote speakers, my tweets throughout the conference, glorious chandeliers and ... the parties!}

The Journey: Alt Summit

I've been nursing my Alt hangover for a few days now, but I feel like I'm finally ready to start my Alt Summit recaps.  I say start because, honestly, there's just too much goodness to share.  I mean, the chandeliers alone are enough to fill one post (don't worry-- I took pics)!  I plan to post all of my #altsummit tweets, as well, because I think the takeaways are perfect.  Short, sweet and to the point.


First, I'd like to say a big thanks to Minted.  My personal journal and business cards were uber handy for the conference.  My business logo was not yet ready, so I was in a pinch on what to do about cards.  Cue Minted!  They have some amazing designs.  If you're on the lookout, you should give them a try.  {Sidenote: my logo is now ready (of course, a week afterward!), and I'll share it soon.} I absolutely love, LOVE, my journal.  I was furiously jotting down notes during each panel and had to remind myself to be present.   {Don't head to my biz site listed on my card just yet!  What a bummer that it's another thing that wasn't quite done before Alt, and I spent half my time explaining it as I handed out my cards. I'll be sure to give you a heads up when it's ready for you to have a look-see.}

I left in the wee hours last Wednesday morning, aka 4:30, aka over three hours before daylight. 

It seemed like I was in SLC in no time.  All it took was six and a half hours, passing 20 oversize load semis and their pilot cars and learning the only radio station available in Utah at 7am was a morning show called Mosh Pit.  Easy peasy.

The first event: Dinner With... Wednesday night.  I selected Frida's Bistro.  The dinner was "with" Cargoh.  {Have you heard of it?  Think Etsy, but more curated and with none of the clutter to sift through.}  Cariann & Paul were super friendly and chatted with me several times throughout the rest of the week.  My special takeaway from dinner?  A fabulous print from Zoe Pawlak and a full belly.  I had the Pollo Poblano.   All pics are from iPhone-- many apologies for the quality!

After dinner, I headed over to the Blog Brunch meet-up at Squatters.  I quickly realized how long my day had gotten and headed back to the hotel, so I could get some much needed shut eye.

I'm saving the content from Thursday, Friday & Saturday for another post-- because it surely deserves a post of its own-- and am skipping ahead to the end of my stay.  I knew I would be let down when the last design camp was over on Saturday, but I didn't have time to even think about it.  As soon as the clock hit 5:30, I was running through the streets to meet my fabulous friend, Steph, her husband and six of their friends.  Let's just say my memory had deceived me on how far the Energy Solutions Arena was from the Grand America Hotel... and it was dumping huge, wet snowflakes.  By the time I showed up for drinks, I looked like a drowned rat.  What a memory that made.  I laughed it off and was thankful I decided to wear boots that day.  We headed across the street to watch the Utah Jazz play the Minnesota Timberwolves. It was a lot of fun, and the time flew by.  {This picture is deceiving because the players seemed so much bigger in person.}

After the game, we headed back to Steph's house and chatted for a bit until she finally admitted she was exhausted.  I think this is becoming a pattern with my visits-- I'm constantly talking her ear off.  I am so thankful that I was able to let myself down easy with a relaxing visit with an old friend.

The next morning, I reluctantly got up to start the long drive home.  Somehow, that drive home always seems to be longer than it is on the way there.  Heading back to reality, perhaps?  735 miles later, my drive ended much the way it started... in the dark and on snow.

I arrived home just in time to put the little one to bed after the sweetest hug a mom could hope for.  I swear he grew as much as I did during those five days.

{Stay tuned for more Alt recaps... I won't leave you hanging!}

A Quick Rundown

Friends, it has been too long.  I haven't read a post in a month and haven't posted in weeks.  I've been doing my very best to be present.  I remind myself that the dishes can sit, and the laundry can wait.  It's been a wonderful few weeks.  Here's a bit of what's gone on...
-Fin decided walking was going to be his main mode of transportation on Oct. 8th and hasn't looked back since.
-We somewhat unsuccessfully added milk into Fin's diet.  His allergy is still hanging on, although not as bad as before.
-I visited with five fabulous females in J's family who were staying on the Front Range before bringing his mother back for a visit.
-We painted our kitchen and kitchen ceiling.  What a fun event!
-We replaced our kitchen ceiling fan after J taught Fin how to pull the cord and subsequently got it lodged around the spindle.  Oops!
-Our little family survived a nasal catastrophe, two stomach viruses, and a double ear infection, and a sore throat is looming.
-J persevered during a weeklong MIA me during our global sales meeting at work.
-Rachel sent me a lovely note detailing her "winnings" from the Stella & Dot giveaway.
-Our little boy was a courageous lion for Halloween.  He was the cutest thing ever, but I may be biased.
-I finished my first ever knitting projects after 3 class sessions-- a hat and fingerless mitts!  Next time, I will actually measure my husband's head before attempting the hat.  He could have had dreadlocks under there as big as it was!
-I'm doing something else for ME-- I started a six week training class that is already over this week and plan to re-up.  I cannot express how good it has been for me.
-I took a sewing class.  I must be on a roll.  Don't stop me now.
-In less than two weeks' time, this little family will be in Texas and Arkansas visiting my side of the family.  We're taking a day trip up to Joplin, as well, exactly six months after the tragic tornado.  I am nervous to see my hometown, but I am absolutely overjoyed at seeing my family.  It has been far too long.

What have you been doing for the past month?  Do you have any travel plans for the holidays?  It's one of my favorite times of the year.  There is just so much joy to be spread!

The True Measure of a Person...

I've been drawn to a lot of quotes in the past few months, and this one just sticks with me.