Post 108-2013

Wow what a crazy and amazing year! 

I get married, my Cat Of 13 years Chance dies, next day we find out we are pregnant, a Roscoe our lab runs away. we have a sweet baby boy, George our husky passes away. A very busy year with lots of changes.  

2013 was filled with happy and sad moments but moments I will never forget nor would change.  I'm very thankful for all in my life and cannot wait until 2014 arrives though I'll be fast asleep as it comes in. 

Happy 2014!

Post 2, 2014 - What new moms need

I have recently become a new mom.  I have found there are some things we need and some we do not.  As much as we love our friends and family, all they do for us, I found that there were something's I did not need and some I did.  For me the first few weeks I was tired but was managing. Then I figured things out and it was great. Then I had to move little bit to his own room and crib. That's when the exhaustion set in.  Here's some things is have learned over the last two months!

-The first week (two) of the babies life I needed grab and go food.  Heathly grab and go, instead of the cookies and brownies that I ate to get something in me while holding a sleeping baby. 

-I only needed food brought to me the 2nd and 3rd weeks and really could have managed without.  Though some of my friends are really good cooks and we appreciated all of the food!

-when bringing food, bring in portions. Especially casseroles that way the new parents can eat the meal once and not over and over or feel bad that They had to throw some away. The best delivery was one that had enough for two for multiple nights in separate pans. So we could eat one and freeze the rest!  

-gift cards ROCK!  We used those when we wanted to get out of the house which was often.  Little bit was small enough that he just slept in the wrap while we are and it helped me to not go stir crAzy!

- a waking buddy!  I started walking immediately so anyone who came over and wanted to go with was a goddess, that way I could walk further without worrying about if something happened to me. 

- no over night guests (unless you have room) we do not. So as much as it was sweet for people offer, we just didn't have room for over night guests 

- don't over stay your welcome.  I had multiple visitors who would come at the last minute or not call before they came at times when I was about to work out, nap, shower, go to bed, whatever. Then would stay so long I never got to what I was doing.  As much as I loved seeing them. Sometimes I wish they would have called or cut the visit shorter.  I almost fell asleep on some of them :-(

- do not do the meal train for a long period of time and not every day (or weekends) once we got into a groove as sweet as it was, it became a burden.  We loved how thoughtful everyone was but after a while or sometimes on the weekend it just interrupted family time.  Make sure you work with the person setting it up to make a schedule that works best for your family!

-I loved offers to watch the little for an hour here or there.  That way I was able to run out get a haircut, eyebrow wax, go to the store alone etc.  

- take the full 3 months of FMLA if you can afford it.  It helps you get the baby into a routine before you go back to work! Plus morning cuddles are the best!! 

- excersicse! Walk as soon as you feel up to it!  I started walking the 2nd week and started walk/running once my walk was easy.  About 5 weeks I started back on my normal work out routine. When I went in for my 6 week check I was ahead of the average on everything. My dr was impressed!

- start tummy time early even if it's on your chest!  And please for the love of Pete do not let your child stay in a car seat all of the time. Invest in a wrap!  Otherwise your child will have a flat head! 

- talk and play with your child when they are awake!  Mine did everything with me from playing on his play mat while I was working out to hanging out in the wrap or his bouncy seat for cooking.  And I constantly talked to him, listened to French and Spanish CDs/channels and  more.  He started cooing early. Hoping it helps with talking too!

- find a babysitter early and try them out for a few hours at a time before day care begins.

-love your baby and tell them too!  Nothing is more sweet than seeing a happy baby!  I video mine daily! His sweet coos and now blowing rasberries makes my hearts smile!

- listen to your motherly instinct!  It won't steer you wrong.  Drown out everyone else's advice (unless you need it). And relax. Your baby can pick up on your anxiety. If you want a chill baby. Be chill. 

- be careful of internet/book advice. There are 100 different ways you can do everything from when to take the baby to the dr to how to get them go sleep.  See the above and listen to your instinct. You know your child best (at least you should) 

Have  fun!  It's your child. You get to help mold who they become!  So be the person you want them to be. Teach them, talk to them. Don't shelter them (even though it's easier to do). Let them meet people take them to restaurants, teach them to be social. Play with them, love them, spend time with them. It's up to you!   You are the parent!  

Good luck and enjoy!  

Post 107-2013 truths about pregnancy

This article is funny but completely accurate:

http://skepchick.org/2010/02/what-pregnant-women-wont-tell-you-ever/

Post 106-2013 baby snuggles

Baby snuggles are the best!  My little one curls up tight his chest against mine. He's starting to wrap his arms around me.  I love listening to him breathe and the little sounds he makes while he sleeps. He's such a sweet baby.  When he starts to stir he nestles my neck. I swear I'm going to get a hickey one of these days. My husband says it's okay at least I'm married.  I could lay here with this little guy forever.

Definitely cherishing these moments!

Post 105 - 2013 Life Changes

My life has changed.  It has changed for the better. I gave birth to a sweet 8lb 10.5oz 21.5 inches long boy.  His entrance into this world started off with a blowing a hole in his lung and having to be separated from me for 2 long days.  Since he's been back in my arms it is really hard to let him go.  I know I should put him down so he sleeps without me holding him but it's so hard to actually do.  His warmth makes my heart smile.  His little grunts. Snores and even hearing him breath makes my heart smile. Even his cries makes me happy.  It means he is healthy.  Plus he sounds like a monkey.  He's by far the best thing his daddy and I have ever done.  He's perfect to us.  He's already stubborn and independent. It's cute to watch but also let's me see our future. I can't stop kissing and smelling him.  I'm a little obsessed.  

I've gone from 2 showers a day to 1; Ralph perfume to au lait perfume; make up to none; yoga pants and tanks as an everyday style; a baby on my hip/chest/arms; cleaning while a baby naps; napping when I can; eating when I can; using the bathroom with a baby in my arms; washing hair once a week (who am I kidding that's normal).

my heart is filled with so much love, more than I ever thought was possible. I am thankful I have the opportunity to spend this time with him while he is so small. I cannot get enough of him. My life has changed (for the better) and I honestly cannot remember my life before him.

Post 104, 2013 Attitude Change

Today, I have not had the best attitude. I have let others affect me, which is silly. I let my frustration take over my mood and body. I have said things without thinking or putting my normal thought into to make sure it doesn't sound snarky or sarcastic. Today I have not cared. Today I let my frustration come through. I reacted, I did not let things roll off. I am not proud if it but it happened. Now I have to pull myself out of it. And I know I know I am 9 months preggo and hormones are flowing through., That should not be a valid excuse. I still should be able to hold my thoughts, control my actions. I just reached that threshold of stress and instead of calming myself, I allowed myself to bubble over.   Every day, hour, minute and second is another chance to start over. If I fail, it is okay I can start over again. As long as I do not stop trying.. I have not actually failed!

Post 103, 2013 Waiting.. patiently

We are waiting patiently for our sweet bundle of joy to arrive. It has been  fun watching my husband get excited when I start having contractions. Though it is odd seeing him so happy I am in pain. I do understand why, he finally gets to meet this little guy and hold him and feel him. I have been lucky I have, talked to him, loved him, kept him safe, felt him move, annoyed him with my poking and prodding. Though I am very content at the moment with just a few frustrations, I am ready to meet him. I am ready to kiss him and hold him and get no sleep with him. I am ready to watch his personality shine through, see whose features he has and will have. I am ready to help mold him into a responsible, caring, funny young man.

Plus the more I await the more I have time to think about the delivery. I have in my head the way things may go, but i really have no idea. For someone who likes to know and plan, this thought is a little scary. I trust my doctors and I know that we will get through this, no matter what. I have let my husband know if anything goes wrong, save our son before me.  I just want him safe!  So I await patiently   not so patiently at times.. but am trying to be patient. I am remembering my coping techinques and talk to him constantly.

Soon very soon we get to meet our little man! I could not be more thrilled and he could not be more loved

Post 102, 2013 The Sweetest Thing

I turn on the tv and The Sweetest Thing is on. It is one of my ALL time fave movies. Cameron Diaz and Christina Applegate and amazing together. They keep me laughing the entire movie and I really get into the characters.  Probably because I was one of them years ago. The girl with the roommates and the best friends who would do anything to support the other, make each other laugh, dance the night away, help each other make bad but fun decisions. Some days I miss those care free days. No worries, responsibilities, just lived life to the fullest and had fun. It was all about fun.  I over committed, got little sleep, was a horrible employee, looked for love in all the wrong palaces, but I had fun.  

As I was watching the movie I looked back at my former younger self and smile. Smile that even though I did not realize it at the time, while I was having fun, I became friends with my now husband. That, the fun times we had, and the memories we shared, stayed with us both, as life took us in different directions. We both wanted the same thing all those years ago, but were too stubborn to admit it, so we let the other go. I am so thankful that we had those memories and all that fun, so that when we came back into each others life, we were ready for the other. We learned from our former selves and knew what we wanted in the other. What was meant to be happened, when we let go of the reins and let life happen. In some ways the movie depicts our life (minus he was getting married when I met him) though the turning point for us, was at a friends wedding, but we dated, then went on to find others, then made our way back to each other.  That movie not only makes me smile for past memories of my former self and hubby, but of the future ones I have with my husband.   I love that we still have fun and laugh. We have been through many stages of life together and apart but the one thing we kept through it all, is our laughter, love for each other and the wanting to have fun.  Even though our fun is wayyyyy different than it used to be!

Remember to smile and laugh a lot. Life is wayy more fun that way!

Post 101 - Thank you goes far

Lately I have been really amazed that simple manners have seem to have gone out the window. From "Thank you", to "Please" to showing up on time and not on a phone. It is crazy how good manners have become non-existent. A simple thank you may not mean that much to you, but it goes a long ways. It shows you took the time to say or write it, that you appreciate whatever the person did for you and really it makes you seem like a nice person. I recently read an article on this, so I know I am not the only one that gets annoyed with the lack of manners that seem to be happening in this day and age.

So remember the next time someone does something even if it is as small as opening a door or your server bringing you a refill on water, say thank you. It will mean a lot to the person.

Post 100, 2013 Corn Maze Fun

Today B and I took the B girls to the corn maze.  We had so much fun today and made some amazing memories. We played in corn, slid down slides, rode the cow train and went on hayrides (which at 9 months pregnant was probably not my brightest idea) made it through the corn maze, fed goats and pigs, petted bunnies and a horse, and laughed a lot.  The girls were worn out and filthy.  As soon as we got home S showered and we watched movies.  The girls were so thankful and so good.  

I love how much they love me, B and tr baby. It makes my heart smile watching B and S interact.  She cuddles with him while watching tv, they rough house and she adores him.  They both do. I love that they love him!  I am so thankful I got this time with them before the baby comes.  They are growing up so fast and no longer need me the way they used too.  E will now be my babysitter instead of me being hers. It's crazy to think we have come full circle! 

It was a good day filled with amazing memories! 

Post 99, 2013 Walking away

"Feeling bad vibes from a situation or person? Give yourself permission to walk away. No explanation is needed, just trust yourself and what you are feeling. 9 times out of ten (and usually 10 out of 10) you will not be wrong and might just save yourself some heartache or something worse!"  Moi

I have written on something similar to this before but, if you get a bad vibe, walk away. It doesn't matter if it is a party, an interview, or a person, walk away. If you get a bad vibe every time you hang out with someone, do not hang out with them anymore, no explanation is needed, just "sorry I cannot I am busy". They will eventually move on.  If it is a situation, get out of it as soon as there is a way too. You never know what could happen and you are better safe then sorry by walking away. I remember once going in for an interview and I saw a very familiar Rhino head, which is the logo for a pyramid scheme I fell for once. I went up to the receptionist and said, " I am sorry, I am not going to be able to interview, I am sorry for wasting your bosses time, have a great day," and left. I should have trusted my bad vibe before every going in there, but once I saw that I knew I needed to leave, they have a way of sucking you in and I did not want to be apart of that again. I have gone to parties or clubs before where I just got a bad feeling, I left without saying anything, and sure enough every time, after I find out something bad went down. I could have been caught up in that and luckily i was not.   My ex, there was something always off but I just attributed that to me being scared, as I am always scared. I was wrong and should have trusted that feeling as he turned out to be a bad bad person. He put on a great front and I think wanted to be a good person, but he just does not know how not to be a bad selfish person. I would have saved myself a lot of heartache and a lot of money had I just walked away when i had the chance. 

So the moral today is walk away. Doesn't matter what the situation is, if you have a bad feeling, walk away. It really will save you in the long run!  

Post 98, 2013 You cannot fix stupid

This week there has been an overabundance of not so smart things either said to me or done by others that just leaves my head shaking. Now I am not the smartest girl around, I do okay. I do try to think things through before talking or asking a question, or even see if I can use my old trusty friend Mr. Google and find the answer. I really try not to take some of these people and their actions personally, as I think it is just their personality. But some seem to just have started acting like this, which leads me to believe it is personal, as others saw this in their behavior a long time ago and I am just seeing it. Either it is personal or I am just blind.. naive.. whatever.  I do like to see the best in people.  I have tried for weeks even months at this point to be very nice, answer questions and not let them get to me. Today I hit my breaking point and realized I cannot fix stupid or rude people. It is their issue not mine. I need to not take it personally and realize whatever they have going on seems to over take their ability to think for themselves and not be rude to others. I kind of feel bad for them. I never want to be a rude person or a person who cannot think for myself. I want to see my faults so I can work on them. I am not perfect nor will I ever be but at least I know that and can work on being a better person. If you think that you are perfect then you are very wrong and go under the "stupid" category.

Always seek to improve yourself and if multiple people have the same issue with you, let me give you a hint.. it is not them.. it is YOU!

Post 97, 2013 Grudges

I read a blog post the other day about mean girls.  You know the type, they were mean to you in school, called you names, picked on you because you were not like them etc. The blog talked about how some of them grew up and still were mean girls, that are now mean moms teaching their girls to be mean girls. The cycle never breaks. I really loved that post because it is so true. Not all mean girls grow up to be mean moms, but there are a few that do. Or the few that cannot get over high school. For whatever reason they are still holding a grudge on something that you may or may not remember even happening. You may not even know you upset them or made them feel a certain way. I know back in high school I always tried to be nice to people but if I felt threatened or uncomfortable I just didn't talk to that person. I wasn't mean but I wasn't nice either. It wasn't until I was comfortable in my own skin that I did not let how I perceived them effect me. If you do not smile at me, I am still going to smile at you. If you do not say hello, that is okay I am still going to say hello. I like to believe that everyone has changed for the better, and that we grow out of our pettiness. I have learned that is not true, but I still hope it is and still believe that it may happen. I do not get holding grudges, especially for something that may or may not have happened 20 plus years ago. Why not give the person a benefit of the doubt and see if they have changed into a better person. Or maybe that person just was shy or like me didn't know how to act, so they did nothing at all, yet you perceived it as them being mean or whatever. Maybe you listened to a rumor that was untrue and that person has no idea why you are mad. And really you are still mad?  Let go of the past and look to the future. Teach your kids to let go and move forward. Holding grudges does nothing but bring you down and make YOU miserable. It does not effect the other person at all. I can tell you if you hold a grudge against me, I probably have no idea, nor woudl I care. I will still treat you nicely. Your attitude or perception does not effect me in the least!

Forgive, let go and move forward.. you will be happier because of it and a weight will be lifted!!!!

Post 96, 2013 There you are girl

I received a huge compliment today.. at least I took it as a huge compliment.

I was sent this article: http://www.thehouseofhendrix.com/2013/09/24/2-types-of-women-here-i-am-or-there-you-are/ with a note that said: "You are definitely a there you are girl! I saw this and immediately thought of you. I love you bunches."

I had never really thought about it before. I just do what comes naturally but I love love love that this girl wrote this article and that one of my friends thought of me and sent it to me. It made my day. 

Here is the image out of here but you should really read the blog post. it really breaks down the differences.

I am so thankful that I am a "There you are" girl without even realizing that I was one! Being a There you are girl makes me happy, as I love making others happy. I love making others smile with a smile. I do try to greet people, as it makes them feel good, no one likes to be ignored!  I love love love giving compliments!  There is never a reason not too (i will also tell you if you need to brush your hair but it is really done out of love).  Eye contact is important!  Otherwise how do you know I am talking to you!  Everyone should feel important! And you and your family are important especially to me. I want to know if they made the sports team and how they are doing in school. Those things matter just like when we were kids how your new boyfriend, what  college you were going too  or you were doing on a sports team mattered. I am all about letting you know I made a fool out of myself or how I devoured the salted caramel ice cream (yum)!  Oh and how my husband is like most husbands and has to be told to do something multiple times, for me to do it myself and he get mad because I didn't let him do it. I love to make others laugh!  Laughter is good for the soul and well makes me happy! If it makes me happy then it has to make you happy too right?

I am so thankful for my friends and am very thankful for being a "There you are girl" I would not trade it for the world!  

Here is too all the "There you are girls" out there and all you do to make others happy as well!

Post 95, 2013 Great first baby shower

We had our first baby shower this weekend and my sister, our moms and my moms friends out did themselves. It was great, the food the decor and just the people I would have wanted to see!  We got tons of gifts a lot of them homemade, which makes my heart smile!  This boy is so lucky and loved already!  Cannot wait for round 2!

Post 94, 2013 - Optimism

"I am an optimist. It does not seem too much use being anything else." Winston Churchill

This particularly rings true this weekend. We had an almost stolen bike off our front porch. We live in a downtown area, lots of foot traffic and a bus stop two houses down. We have had a dog that barks for the past 4 years so no one has attempted to steal anything off the front porch and we got a little used to that. Well Saturday morning they tried and apparently me waking up early to work out thwarted the robbery, so they left it standing with the door open. I looked at it as, well they bikes should have been locked up and they obviously needed it more than us. My hubby not so much. It really made his blood boil. To give him credit it was his bike. This isn't the first theft from the porch, 6 years ago I had my lawn mower stolen. People would rather steal than work for something. It is sad, but I am not going to let their lack of morals effect my attitude. They are sucky people who have a sucky life. We at least can afford a new mower, bike etc. We have a good life, a roof over our heads, cars that work, a loving marriage, awesome pets, and a baby on the way. Life is good. I choose to see the glass half full. It makes me happy to see the glass half full. It is not worth my time or energy to get angry and see the glass as half empty.   I choose happiness.  What would you choose?

Post 93 - 2013 carpet

Yay our carpet is almost completely done   Our room and the dining room look normal. The rest of the house not so much.  Our cat is super happy. The dog not so much. Though the cat is so sweet and goes to lay with the dog in the kitchen/laundry area where he's being kept (away from the carpet).

It's like we moved into a new house.  It makes me so happy. I've been able to clean out lots of old things which is freeing up more room. Plus the colors we picked and so calming   I'm a very happy girl! 

Hope everyone has a great day!  Thanks for reading!!!

Post 92 - 2013 Hospital Tour

Last night, B and I were able to go tour the hospital where our son will be born. I am glad we were able to see where to go and have some sort of direction. I think it will help us the day we go into labor. Apparently Tuesdays are the most common days for labor to begin, let's hope ours is a Friday so B will be able to get off work easily.   We learned that the rooms were much smaller than I thought they were.
For Labor and Delivery, there is a bench, a chair (no place for B to sleep if labor drags on) and only room for 2 people max for the delivery portion. There is a waiting room, in the maternity ward and one right outside of it for guests to wait if they so choose too.

Once the baby is born, the hospital would like that all family and friends wait in the waiting room for an hour to give the mom, dad and baby a chance to bond, as the baby is most alert at this time and it confuses the baby to have lots of people holding him during that time. They said that guests could come back in once the  mom is settled into the  postpartum room.

The postpartum room is super super small. I mean super small. A bed for me, and a chair that folds out to a bed for B, but nothing else. Not really sure how visitors are supposed to visit. I will be pushing to go home within 36 hours. They said we could go home between 24-48 hours after delivery so i will be pushing to do that quickly, as that room made me claustrophobic. Hopefully by the time we deliver again, we will be near a different hospital that has better facilities. The rooms have been renovated, but I feel like they renovated them to be smaller. Which is a little disappointing, but will motivate me to get home sooner.

At least the hospital is 3 mins from the house, so that is nice!

Looking forward to meeting this little guy!

Post 91 - 2013 Productive weekend

Wow what a productive weekend.  I finished the painting in what will be newly floored areas of the house and my husband fixed a clogged sink, by having to take all of the pipes off and re-pipping the sink (which was not an easy feat) We both worked out butts off and were completely exhausted yesterday but it all was done and we were able to relax. The house looks so pretty but I did learn one thing, I am not a painter. I do well, but definitely could never get paid to do it. straight lines are not my thing. Though i think my husband could be a  plumber. He did a fabulous job fixing the sink after a few cussing spells and trips to Lowes.   we treated ourselves to an stay in date night with pizza, cinastix and a movie!  Perfect end to a very productive two day!!!

Post 90 - 2013 Husband is home!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

YIPEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!  My hubby is home after working out of town all week. Now while I did miss him terribly, I did not miss having to share the bed at night.   While he is in trouble for working through the night and driving home on no sleep, I am thankful he is home safe and I get to see him in a few hours! WHOO HOO HOO!!!

Post 89 - 2013 Love

Lately I have been feeling this overwhelming love for my husband. I am not sure if it is because of the ever growing fetus or if this just happens in marriage.  Either way it is very overwhelming at times. I feel like my heart is just going to explode.  Even when I am picking up after him, I still feel that love for him and am thankful I have him to pick up after.   This week he has to work out of town. Usually I am the one who like like "go!!!"  When he called to tell me, he was very upset with having to leave me. I told him I and the baby would be fine it was just a week.   By Sunday I was feeling completely different. I had a complete meltdown, hysterically crying, all because he was leaving earlier than I thought he was going to leave. He placated me but taking me to breakfast but as we kissed and hugged goodbye the tears flowed. Feeling of emptiness and fear ran through me. Fear that something would happen and I would not be able to get to him. Never fear over me, just him. Emptiness of a house that did not have him moving in it, a bed that now had a cat sprawled out in his place, no one there for morning cuddles.

I woke up did my normal routine and honestly slept much better, as I had no one in bed waking me up.  Then my phone rang, I heard his voice and started to tear up just like the first time I had heard his voice after many years apart. That sweet, strong, southern voice, that touches my heart on so many levels. I was happy he called to talk to me before he went to sleep and I went to work. I loved hearing his voice and being able to tell him I love him.

This week will go by faster than I will realize it will, but one thing for sure is that absence does make the heart grow fonder. I cannot wait for him to be back in my arms.  (wow who knew I would ever say that about anyone!)

Love to All.

Post 88, 2013 Parents weekend

As we were painting last night, my husband laughs and says, "I feel like we are in college getting ready for parents weekend."  I laughed and said, "well we are"  Granted, we needed to paint anyway, but we are doing a deep clean, as lately we have not been cleaning like we should due to all of the projects we have going on with renovations.  For one week and weekend, our house will be put back and will look normal. I cannot tell you how elated I am about this. Our room may not get the cleaning I really want it to get depending on time and how much I get done tonight and tomorrow night, but to have the house looking and smelling pretty will make me a very happy girl. Especially the baby's room that I worked so hard at, that is now filled with my husbands smelly dirty laundry. Plus all my giveaways will go to some of my Junior league girls for Whale of a Sale quota and that makes me super happy!

So even though we have been through months of renovations, and a house that can never seem to stay cleaned, this weekend for one weekend, my house will be in order! I am super excited about that! WHOO HOO HOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Post 87, 2013 Fun times

This weekend was filled with fun times. Friday night, my husband surprised me with a sushi date, though I am sure it was his way to unmotivate me to paint :D   It still was a fun night of yummy food and good talks.

Saturday I woke up, worked out and met my bestie and her daughter for breakfast then a beach day. We had lots of laughs and the girl time was amazingly needed.  The plan was to get home and help the hubby paint, but by the time I made it home he was starving so he took me out for date # 2 this weekend to get me some caramel cake that I have been craving.  Nicely played again!.

So Sunday rolled around and it was paint day. We have a LARGE living room with lots of trim.  My loving husband had managed to get half the rooms trim done and as he kept working on the trim I did the walls. After 2 trips to Sherman Williams for more paint, we managed to get almost the entire room done. We have one little corner left, as well as some trim touch up, as I am the messiest painter alive. We laughed A LOT  and both realized we are not painters but it was definitely more fun doing it together. Plus he got to laugh as I sang and danced to some Black Eyed Peas and Ke$ha (don't judge). At one point he asked me, when we were quitting and I said you really do not want to ask me I take after my dad, we go until we are finished painting the room.  But about 5:30 I ran out of paint and instead of opening a new can we called it quits, cleaned up, cleaned ourselves off and headed to a much deserved dinner. I will say thick crust pizza and wine (for me, don't judge) and a beer for him was exactly what we needed.  We got home and were able to move part of the room back into its place, and hopefully I will be able to finish the rest tonight!.

It was definitely an exhausting day, but would not have wanted to do that with anyone else. We had a really good time laughing and painting. Glad I married my best friend!  He makes even the most tedious tasks fun!

Post 86, 2013. A letter to my former drama queen self

Dear Past Drama Queen,

Sometimes I look back on you and am very thankful for how far I have come.  Everyone once in awhile you seep out at the most inopportune times.  I do not miss always needing to be the center of attention, being  the constant gossip queen to ensure everyone knew I knew all, the one upping people, interrupting people as they talked, not liking or respecting myself and being a terrible friend.  I love that I now love myself even on my bad days, that I walk away from idle gossip as I really do not want to carry the burden of others secrets, that I truly want to help others for them, with nothing in return, that I can sit back and listen to a conversation and learn about others, that I shy away from things that make me the center of attention, that I love with a open heart, that I work hard for things and do not expect others to do it for me.

I do not miss the trouble you got me in, the people I hurt, the reputation I received, the so called fun times that I had, the not being able to stop, even when I knew I was doing the wrong thing. I am thankful for the person I am today and glad I learned how to break free from you. I no longer need the things you needed. I am no longer selfish nor a drunk. I do not miss thinking I was "sharing" when I was really gossiping and well gossip hurts that person and me. I do not miss venting to others, as venting only makes me angry and I have learned anger hurts. I do not miss being jealous over silly things like others getting more attention than me, as I no longer need that attention. My attention comes from within. I have learned to be at peace with what I have in life and to let things go. Purging material things is good for my soul. I no longer need them as a status symbol.

I am thankful that I learned from you and now can see your traits in others. When I see those traits, it makes me shy away from those people. I know I should help them and I do want to scream at them what I have learned, but no it is no use. People tried with me for years and it took me waking up and pushing you away before I learned from you and changed myself. Whenever those people try to bring me back into your fold, it makes me sad. I never want to me one with you again. I love feeling at peace. I am thankful for my life and love those who talk about things rather than people. So i try to point out positive things to them, and hope they do not rub off on me.  You come out too easily and that scares me. Most people do not see you in their personality. I never want to look in the mirror and see your face.

So thank you for giving me a lifetime of lessons, and thank you for going away. I wish I could say you are missed, but you are not. Please have fun in your new host, and leave me alone!

Sincerely,

J

Post 85, 2013 Taking things personally

Lately, I have been around people who take a lot of thing personally, that should not. Some of them make things up in their heads, some think people are out to get them, some just do not like to work or are not comfortable when they do not know the answer and some just cannot have an argument about something non personal without taking it personal. For me if I disagree with your opinion or we have a spat, it is over the moment we are done, I do not dwell on it. No reason too, the moment has past.  The only thing that happens with dwelling on things is you get angry, and hostile.

I personally want neither of those things in my life. You do not want to say good morning back, that is okay that is your issue. You do not want to say goodbye back, or thank you, again that is your issue.  We all go through things in life that others have no clue about and frankly most of us do not really want to know of others woes. All we want is for people to be respectful to us. I love my husband so much because we have those days where we have a disagreement or mis-communication that ends in a tift, once it is over it is over, we do not bring it up again, we are back to normal, we were able to say our peace and be done with it. One of the guys at the office is like that too, we get in some knock down drag outs, but once it is over, it is over. It was about something work related and has nothing to do with us personally. We will be joking around 30 mins later (sometimes earlier).   You will never agree with someone 100% of the time, so as long as they are not personally attacking you, then do not take it personally. We all have things to learn,we all have things we do not understand, we all see things in a different way. So to get mad at someone for that is silly, to get mad at them because you had a heated moment is silly.  To get mad at them for something you have not even told them they did or said, is silly.  Mis-communications happen all the time. Just because you think something, doesn't mean the other person does. Brush it off, smile and just enjoy your day. Letting others effect you is again silly!  No one should effect you but you!  If you feel a surge of anger, push it back down. When someone apologizes, accept it and move on, if something thanks you, say you are welcome and move on, when someone says hello or good bye even if you cannot stand the sight of them, say it back ad move on. You not liking them is your issue, not theirs. And if you find yourself not liking a lot of people, you might want to look internally, as usually the issue is you.

So smile, brush off things, do not take things personally and just be happy!

Post 84, 2013 Moving forward

Lately I have seen a few friends and acquaintances stuck in the past. Something happened in their lives, either recently or years ago and they just keep reliving this over and over again.  It makes them miserable to be around. I have tried ignoring it, offering comfort, just being normal to give them normalcy. In return I get nasty looks, back handed compliments or just plain ignored. This makes it really hard for me to deal with because I wish they could see they are the only ones with the power to make things better. What happened in the past sucks.  For some of them it sucks really really bad. Unfortunately you cannot go back and change the past. Trust me, there are some things I wish I could erase for good, but I cannot. I can either choose to dwell on it or move forward. I chose to move forward and have NEVER regretted that decision. I wish I could help these people but I know only they can help themselves. It does make me a little sad that I cannot help them, then I get irritated, and have to remind myself I was them at one time in my life. I was once miserable to be around. I am very thankful for my friends who stuck by me, and thankful I was strong enough to pull myself out of it.

Remember when hard times hit, that they can be overcome. Keep a positive attitude (even if it seems like it is hard to do), try to look on the bright side, do not dwell on the past, think of ways to move forward, find your happy place as often as you need too and remember people love you and want you to be happy! Push past the pain to the future!!!  Only you can pull yourself out of a funk!  I know you can do it!

Post 83, 2013 Golden Rules for Living

I have no idea where I got this from, but this list is hanging on my desk and today I thought I would share it with you.  As they seem simple, but most people do not think about doing these things. If everyone followed these rules, life would be a much happier peaceful place.

1. If you open it, close it.

2. If you turn it on, turn it off.

3. If you unlock it, lock it up.

4. If you break it, admit it.

5. If you can't fix it, call in someone who can.

6. If you borrow it, return it.

7. If you value it, take care of it.

8. If you make a mess, clean it up. (there are some in my house that need to learn this one, I am not mentioning names)

9. If you move it, put it back.

10.  If it belongs to someone else, get permission to use it.

11. If you do no know how to operate it, leave it alone.

12. If it is none of your business, don't ask questions.

Easy right?  I think so, once I started making sure I followed these, I became more organized and a much better roommate!!

Post 82, 2013 What I want

What do I want? I want world peace, people to not be judgmental of others lifestyles or color of their skin, to laugh daily, to have no debt, to have a healthy baby boy, to not have to work full time, to fly under the radar, to make a difference.  Those are a few of the things I want.   When it comes to a baby shower, I do not care. I am not one who likes to be center of attention. I do not like to ask for things. It makes me uncomfortable. Can I speak in front of a crowd?  Yes, but it is not my favorite thing to do. If I really want something I will speak up. Otherwise It does not matter to me. It does not matter if I have 5 baby showers or none. I will be happy regardless. I do my best to try to not worry about what others want. If I see a need, I do it or ask if I can do it. If it is important to me then you will know. People worry too much about hurting others feelings and what they want or do not want to the point where they hurt themselves.  If something is important to you speak up. Do something about it. You will never find a room of people who want the same things. So if it is important, do something about it. Most of what I want will never happen, but I can do what is in my power to strive to help make it happen or at least make it known that those are my wants. If I do nothing I will not be happy. My husband laughs at me and calls me a recluse, but it is because sometimes the best company I can think of is right in my house. He and my animals make me happy, I do not have to talk if I do not want too, I can do what i please without judgement, I can stay in my happy place. They annoy me sometimes but they always make me happy when they are around. If I really want to go somewhere I will speak up, otherwise I am happy to just hang out and not worry about what other want and just take care of me.  If he really wants me to go somewhere he will speak up and I will go because it makes him happy and he spoke up about it.  The world would be a better place if people took care of themselves first and figured out what makes them happy and spoke up when things were important and let the other things, slow by.  Do not sweat the small stuff, enjoy what you can and speak up when it is important. That sums up what I want!

Post 81, 2013. Newest masterpiece

My bestie S and I went to Yes You Canvas last night.  It is one of my favorite places. Usually I go by myself but this time we went for her birthday.  You go in and get taught how to paint a particular painting and walk out with a masterpiece you painted and the feeling you could paint anything.  The instructor David is amazing. Loads of experience and is very patient and helps guide you through the painting with grace, ease and suggestions for when things go array. 

My masterpiece! 

  

Post 80, 2013. Awkward

This morning was that awkward moment where you are having breakfast with your love and you see someone that you really don't ever want to see that person who dated when you knew they were wrong for you.  You dated because a they stalked you until you conceded.  You broke up because you never should have been together and when you see them you hope they never see you so you don't have to say hi and be pleasant.  It's the person you should have blocked on Facebook years ago and never wanted to be that mean. I saw that person this morning. I avoided the situation thankfully just to have my husband tease me mercifully. As he found it hilarious.  We he saw this person he laughed and laughed as he said ' I was looking at the wrong person. I never would have thought you would have dated that person'. Thanks babe. Love you too, should we discuss some of your past choices??  

One thing for sure when your past shows up, it may be awkward but you sure do realize how much you love and appreciate your future!  I love how non jealous, loving and even teasing my husband is. I love that he loves me despite my past and despite me making him wait so long for me to settle down with him.  I love that he doesn't try to tame me but rather he holds on and tries to enjoy the ride.  He lets me be me and loves me even more for it!  It's a good feeling!  

So sometimes awkward moments lead to cherishing others!

Post 79, 2013 Laughter and letting go!

I love that pic and that quote.  Laughter is good for you. It soothes the soul, it makes you happy instantly, good endorphins flow through you and it makes others smile too.  I get teased that I have a big loud laugh from my hubby. I ignore this.  I understand some may not like my laugh, but it is who i am and for everyone who doesn't like it, there are 2 more who love it! I get complimented on my laugh wayyyy more than I get told to use my inside laugh. I cannot help it. The laugh comes from the belly and has a mind of its own. I am okay with that. I will not apologize for being a happy girl. I will apologize when i have done something wrong, or hut someone even unintentionally. Unintentional hurt is the worst. It was never meant, something was taken the wrong way, or I acted in a way that was taken badly and that makes me sad. I am quick to apologize as i never ever want to hurt anyone. I have done enough of that in my lifetime. I have also let go of the past and look towards the future. Sometimes the past creeps up and makes you remember things you thought were gone, you thought you let go of and the feeling us worthlessness and hurt flood in to the present. It takes work to stop those thoughts and remember that I am not that person anymore. That person that was insecure, a drunk, selfish, that person is who made me the caring, selfless, sober person I am today. I cannot change who I was, but I can learn from her and let go of her. I can remember that I am a different better person who is constantly looking to be better and do more for others to make up for past mistakes and hurts. I cannot change what happened in my past, but I can learn from it and let go of it to make room for a new future.  

So laugh when you can, apologize when you should and let go of things you cannot change!  Your life will be better for it!

Post 71 - Peeing in your pants is cool

So funny story. We were walking home from dinner friday night and of course I have to pee and pretty badly, par for the course lately.  We get home and I see the babygate to the bedrooms is open.  We keep it closed because one of our dogs loves to lay on the bed and eat the cats food.  I say "oh no" so B heads back there and so do I to see Roscoe had,  had some fun in our bed.. the bed is completely unmade on his side (it was made before dinner) and he had just rolled around in it like someone had had sex in it. Well i am laughing and laughing and laughing,  so much bc B is livid and calling Roscoe in there to say bad dog that I peed my pants :)  not much but enough to say I did.. true story  Luagh it up, just remember peeing in your pants is cool!

Post 70, 2013 - Expectations

Today has made me laugh.  Most holidays, the day before our CEO let's us off.  MOST, not all.  I laugh at the people who bank on this, when it does not always happen and they know it does not always happen.  The plans are made, and then the expected email doesn't arrive.  I am literally sitting here giggling at those who are complaining that we have not gotten the email. It is 2 hours of work, and the ones that are complaining, are probably not going to work anyway, so really is it that big of deal?  If it is, then take a half day.  That is what I do.. Sure it sucks that i am charged two hours on the off chance we do get off early but I would rather do that then be annoyed.

So while they are disappointed I will go get a pedicure for my lunch.. that sounds like a perfect idea!

Make sure the expectations you have for something are reasonable, otherwise you are in for disappointment and well no one likes to be disappointed.

Post 78, 2013 So much hate

There is so much hate in this world. It amazes me every day, the things the media  and people focus on.  Things that really shouldn't matter.  People's pasts being brought up to the future, and in return ruining lives. Two things lately have been driving me crazy.

#1 Paula Dean. Oh my goodness, she is from the south, at one point in time the word she said was a very prominent word.  She even tells of the last time she can remember saying it and she was robbed at gunpoint, and that was the ENTIRE reason she used that word.  Had it been a white person, she probably would have called them a cracker or white trash. Get over it!  Everyone makes a mistake or says something they regret. Hers just happens to be YEARS ago. The poor woman has apologized over and over and over again. Have you never said something out of fear or anger?    Get a freaking life people and move on. This has gotten completely out of hand and is completely ridiculous!!

#2, Gay marriage. For the love of Pete, why do you care if someone else gets married or not?  I am really really really sick of hearing about this and the hate that is coming out of the people who are so called Christians. Does God not tell you to love everyone and not to judge?  That is his job not yours. You are to love every sinner regardless of their sin. If you feel like gay marriage is a sin that is your prerogative, however, you are still to love and support them. I have a few people who are very close to me who really really really do not like gay marriage or the idea that someone is gay at all. I find this completely fascinating, as they are good people, it seems as if they almost are afraid of what they do not know.   As if being gay makes you an alien or something. For me, why do I care what someone else does? If you love someone I do not care who it is, just treat them good.   Do not throw the bible at me, because I will throw it right back at you, and say " you should love thy neighbor" no matter what or who they are. It is not the churches fight to keep people from getting married, nor is it yours.   You should focus on things that you can change, like homeless people or poverty. Go volunteer at a homeless shelter or a foster kid camp. Do good in the world and stop being so hateful to those who are different from you.  Different is not always bad.  You need different to round you out. You need different to come up with new ideas. Embrace others, instead of pushing them away. Love everyone the same.  So why is it so hard for Christians to do the same?

I red a good blog the other day, and this may help you open your mind a little more. http://momastery.com/blog/2013/06/24/i-love-gay-people-and-i-love-christians-i-choose-all/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=i-love-gay-people-and-i-love-christians-i-choose-all

Stop hating, and just love others.  Mind your businesses and stop worrying about others.  Remember gossiping is a sin!  Let God worry about the sins and you just focus on you and what you can do to make the world a better place.  Focusing on hate, and changing others will do you no good. Make a difference in this world by shining your light, not by putting others lights out.

Post 77, 2013 - Lucky lucky girl

I will say I am feeling like a very lucky girl. I have a great job that I love, I have an amazing husband who works hard and is very supportive of all my crazy adventures. Friends who go up and beyond time and time again.  I have the ability to make extra income while spending time with kids who are like family to me. I have multiple "families" in Jax which makes it feel like the perfect place to be. I love love love my families here.  From the B family, to the D family to the O family. They love me and have taken me in as one of their own and I could not feel more blessed or honored. I love spending time with the B and D children and I love that their parents love me so much!  I love my O family and the brothers and sister I have gained with them. Sometimes I sit back and am just in awe of the love that I feel for them and I feel from them all!  No day ends better then when I see one of these families!!

So not only do I have two awesome families back home (plus amazing life long friends) but I have many in my current city and I am feeling like a pretty lucky girl at the moment!

Post 76, 2013 - Obesity a disease?

So I found this article today: http://www.nytimes.com/2013/06/19/business/ama-recognizes-obesity-as-a-disease.html?hpw&_r=2& and it is talking about the, A.M.A. Recognizes Obesity as a Disease.   I am not sure what to think about this. 

I am not sure it is so much a disease rather than lifestyle choices. Yes some poeple have underlying issues like thyroid disease that attribute to their obseity, but even with that, medicine is available to help keep that under control.  If your back is hurt and you cannot work out, there is still your diet that you can control. I really have a hard time swallowing that obesity is a disease.  Even with children  that are overweight, their lifestyle and their parents lifestyle directly effects that.   This article really makes me think. I almost feel like we are telling people it is okay to be obese, that even though being obese hurts them and drives up costs of Insurance for those of us who are not obese.   Why not just help them get back to a good place and weight? Why condone this lifestyle, when it has been proven over and over that you can change things, but finding out the underlying cause of the obesity?

Interesting none the less!

Post 75, 2013 25 phrases you wish you could say at work

So I am not sure where I got this from but it is my IM status at work and made me giggle so I thought I would share:

 25 phrases you wish you could say at work more often
1. Ahhh...I see the f-up fairy has visited us again...
2. I don't know what your problem is, but I'll bet it's hard to pronounce.
3. How about never? Is never good for you?
4. I see you've set aside this special time to humiliate yourself in public.
5. I'm really easy to get along with once you people learn to worship me.
6. I'll try being nicer if you'll try being smarter.
7. I'm out of my mind, but feel free to leave a message...
8. I don't work here. I'm a consultant.
9. It sounds like English, but I can't understand a word you're saying.
10. I can see your point, but I still think you're full of sh*t.
11. I like you. You remind me of me when I was young and stupid.
12. You are validating my inherent mistrust of strangers.
13. I have plenty of talent and vision. I just don't give a darn.  
14. I'm already visualizing the duct tape over your mouth.
15. I will always cherish the initial misconceptions I had about you.
16. Thank you. We're all refreshed and challenged by your unique point of view.
17. The fact that no one understands you doesn't mean you're an artist.
18. Any connection between your reality and mine is purely coincidental.
19. What am I? Flypaper for freaks!?
20. I'm not being rude. You're just insignificant.  
21. It's a thankless job, but I've got a lot of Karma to burn off.  
22. Yes, I am an agent of Satan, but my duties are largely ceremonial.
23. No, my powers can only be used for good.
 24. You sound reasonable... Time to up the medication.
25. Who me? I just wander from room to room.

Post 74, 2013 Exciting news!

Yesterday was Father's Day and though my wonderful husband did nothing more than say 'next year you will be a mom on mothers day'. Which by the way was also my birthday.  I decided to show him what he should be doing for special days like that so, I bought an ultrasound frame and scheduled an ultrasound to find out the gender of our little fetus so we could find out what the gender was together. 

I am excited to announce that we will be having a little boy!  First boy on my side since my dad (well except for cousins).  And he has long legs and arms so he will have some height on him. Though already seems to be throwing tantrums (great).  The little guy was sucking his thumb and trying to sleep and was not so thrilled with being woken up (sounds like me).  He started pounding his fists and kicking his feet.  It was neat to see as I felt them.  Regardless of his tantrum,  it was good to see him and for B to be able to see him!

Post 73, 2013 Negativity

Negative
1.
a. Expressing, containing, or consisting of a negation, refusal, or denial:
b. Indicating opposition or resistance:
2. Lacking positive or constructive features, especially:
a. Unpleasant; disagreeable:
b. Gloomy; pessimistic:
c. Unfavorable or detrimental: a negative review;
d. Hostile or disparaging; malicious

People with these qualities rarely realize they have these qualities.  Sometimes they get a glimpse at the negative things in their life, some of them can even change their outlook, but most, just wallow in their negative thoughts, they vent about things over and over again, which only makes them re-live the negative moment,  they talk about people (not in a good way), they just are not fun to be around.  We all know someone like this, we ourselves may even by like this or were like this (me....I was totally a negative person at one point in my life).  We do not have to stay that way. With some hard work, it is really rather easy to step out of that negative personality, and lift yourself up to a positive one. If I can do it anyone can!

Yes some days are harder than others, every day you have to work at it. I have realized, that being positive is so much easier than being negative.  Though it is super easy to fall into a negative trap. You know when you are having a casual conversation and someone starts talking about someone else, and not in a good way.  The conversation could be entirely true, but still you are talking about someone and talking about someone usually ends in a negative light. It doesn't speak well of you for gossiping about others and doesn't help that person who needs love and support to help them be a better person.

One thing I have learned, which is hard for someone who has an empathetic personality like I do, is to not take the negativity personally. I know this is hard, it is easy to get wrapped up in the negativity of others, it is easy to feel like it is directly effecting you. Remember most negative people act that way to EVERYONE and only they can pull themselves out of it. All you can do is be there and shine positive outlooks on their negative outlook. Sometimes, you can break through to them like a sun on a rainy day.

Focus on solutions!  I like to offer a solution to those who complain constantly about the same thing. or try to spin things around to the positive light. This took a lot for me to speak up to those who constantly complained about everything, but it makes me smile, and makes me feel like I helped just a tiny bit show them another way of looking at things. My motto is do not complain unless you can come up with a solution to fix your complaint. Even at work, I do not complain to my boss, unless I have a solution I can offer to fix the issue. I think this was one of the last things I had to learn.  It was hard, as complaining is easy to do!

Practicing acts of kindness, always pulls me out of a negative mood. It never fails, I can be feeling grumpy and I do something as simple as smiling at someone else or opening a door for someone, and their smile or gratitude back immediately pulls me out of my mood.  Try doing something for someone else with no expectation of anything in return, it will make you feel like you won the lotto!

Focus on today, not the huge to do list you may have. Break things down into what you can do today.  Sometimes life gets overwhelming and just focusing on the day at hand can shed new light onto things and keep negativity at bay.

Life is a roller coaster ride. Life has its ups and downs, realize that!  Life is not always going to be filled with sunshine and rainbows.  I like to think that the downs, make me appreciate the ups so much more. I do not mind the down times, I can always find a way to laugh through the pain, and look forward to the up times. So your spouse broke up with you or you lost your job, well maybe they were not the right person to begin with or it was not the right job for you.  Someone better and an amazing job are out there waiting on you, so focus on being the best version of you, and good things will come.  Enjoy that ride, as we only get one!

Change the way you think!  If I have a negative thought come up or out of my mouth, I immediately put a positive one with it. I know that sounds crazy, but it helps me realize that what I just thought or said was negative, and makes me look at the thing or person in a better light, which only helps me.  So if I think, "her voice is so annoying", I immediately think of something nice, like "but she is really pretty". Silly yes, but it makes me accountable for my thoughts, and has helped me live a more positive life.

Surround yourself with positive people. This is really a no-brainer.  If you hang out with losers, you become a loser.  If you hang out with negative people you become negative.  If you hang out with people who challenge you to be a better person, you become that better person. If you hang out with positive people, you cannot help but become a positive person. Plus positive people are so much better to be around, they are healthier, they have great conversations, they laugh a lot and they lift you up!  It was hard for me to slowly cut out people who had been in my life for a long time, but were just bringing me down. I tried helping them be more positive; I tried being a positive example; I tried spinning things so they could see that things could be better than the way they saw them.  Sadly, some of them just wanted to wallow in their own negativity, and did not even realize i was no longer in their lives, as they found others who would listen to their complaints and commiserate with them. Cut the ties and let them go, it is sad yes, but sometimes that is exactly what you need to do to save yourself.  I know I felt as if a weight had been lifted.

Be the person you want as a friend. If you want to be around positive people, then be one yourself. Be the person you want to hang around, if you do not like you, then why would others? Be the example not the problem!

Let go! This one is hard for people, they want to dwell on things, re-live them over and over again, which only keep the negativity in your life. Let it go. Just like a bad day at the office, let it go. I do not think bringing up a past event after it has been put to rest does any good for anyone.  I try to forgive,  forget, and let go as soon as I have spoken my mind. If I relive that moment or that bad day at the office, then it is like it is happening all over again, which puts me in a bad mood, when that moment is over.  Try to let it go after the moment happens, and do not bring it up again. It may take some time to do this, but eventually it will be habit and you will be a much happier positive person.

Laugh!  Laughter is the best medicine to a bad day, or an ugly argument, really it is good for almost anything. A good belly laugh will make you forget your trouble and will release good endorphins that will make you smile. Positive people laugh a lot. So try not to take life too seriously and laugh when you can!  Your life will be better for it.

Whether you are negative or you are just around negative people, try using some of the above to overcome it!  Your life will more enriched and much more full, with positivity surrounding you! Don't be a negative Nelly and do not let a negative Nelly effect you! Shine through the negativity and show others your positive light!

Post 72, 2013 simple pleasures

Simple pleasures in life make me smile bigger than grand things do.  Today's simple pleasures were:

Laying with my husband as my back rest and having my cat use me as her blanket and pillow by backing herself under my leg and laying her head on my foot. 

Making dinner and dessert with my B girls. We made pigs in a blanket and had fresh strawberries then made Nutella croissants yum!

Their  giggles and hugs made my night! 

Take time to enjoy the simple pleasures as they are the best memories!

Post 71, 2013 - 30 Day Challenge

Ok I love love love this idea!  It came from TED.    Do a 30 day challenge!

It takes 21 days to form a habit, if you do it for 30, it will probably stick.  Whether it is working out, kicking a bad habit or doing something nice for others. Pick one or more challenges and stick with them! Challenge your friends to help you stay inspired! Keep a journal of your progress (this also holds you accountable to you) Do not pick too many challenges at the same time, you can always pick more in 30 days. Remember to have fun with it!

#1 Write a nice note each day to someone 
       I try to do this one daily.  This is the perfect way to let someone else know you care. Say thank you or I love this about you. You always will make someones day by doing this. Read this post for more on this!

#2 Replace your work chair with an exercise ball!
      Your core will improve, so will your posture and you burn extra calories while working!

#3  Meditate
There is nothing better than spending 20 mins to meditate and think about life, goals, and just breath!

#4 Talk to one stranger each day 
This one may be easy or hard depending on your personality. But try to stay something to someone that you do not know each day.  Especailly if they are older, they will love the attention and you will smile as well!


#5 Take a 30 minute walk/run each day 
     Go for a walk or run each day.  Take your dog, walk to dinner, enjoy the sights and being outside!

#6 Smile
Smile each day even to strangers, a smile is contagious and you not only will feel good but others will as well!

#7 Start a blog
You do not have to publish it, but start one. Find new things to talk about each day or have one dedicated to something you love. Inspire others and you inspire yourself!

#8 Take a moment each day to practice self-love 
Stop comparing yourself to others and learn to love you for who you are.  Look in the mirror and tell yourself all the reasons why you are awesome!


#9 Refrain from alcohol and other drugs for 30 days in a row! 
      I did this for a year. Was it hard? yes!  Did I get lots of ridicule from friends? Yes Did it make me a better person? Yes!  Do it!

#10 Learn how to draw
Use YouTube, take a class, it doesn't have to be a masterpiece but learn to draw, hey there is even Drawsomething and Drawsomething 2 that you can play with friends and learn!

#11 Write a 50,000 word novel in 30 days 
        Ever wanted to write a book? Do it. Do it in 30 days. My friend did and is on her 4th book all because of this website http://www.nanowrimo.org/


#12 Watch a documentary each day
There are some really cool things to learn about find some that you are interested in.. Super size me anyone?

#13 Learn a new language
In 30 days you can master a new language or at least be able to ask where the restroom is :D

#14 Walk/Drive/Run a new route to work/school each day 
        You will no longer be heading to your destination on autopilot and you may see some pretty cool things, and even learn something new.

#15 Read a chapter each day 
In a month you will be done with at least 1 book if not more!  Plus it is fun!

#16 Unplug
       Log out of Facebook, Twitter Google+ etc, do not watch tv, or play video games for 30 days.  You will be amazed at how much more time you have and what else you can accomplish!

#17 Ditch a bad habit for 30 days 
       Are you a negative person?  Do you smoke? Do you do drugs? Do you drink heavily? are you a couch potato?  Do you eat crappy?  Quit whatever for 30 days, and pick another good habit instead!

#18 Motivate/Inspire yourself each day 
       People who can motivate themselves are happier people.  Find things that motivate and inspire you every day!  Write them down so when you are having a bad day you can look at it and help lift yourself up!

#19 Try a new recipe each day 
This is the best way to learn to cook, after awhile you will be making up your own recipes

#20 Set goals
       Look ahead in your life and set a goal for you to do for the next 15-30 years! Set one each day!

#21 Take one picture each day
Make a picture diary of your month.  You will be amazed at some of the pics you take!

#22 Keep a journal 
        Write down what happens each day.  Remember the joys and the let downs. Write about the challenges you have taken this month. It is a great practice to get in and you can read it to your kids one day!

#23 Doing something that scares you every day 
      The only way to overcome your fear is to well, face it head on!

#24 Take the stairs every chance you get 
      Did you know it is quicker to walk stairs than to take an elevator or escalator?  Try it, not only will you save time but you will help your health!  Win win!

#25 Don’t lie for 30 days 
Not even little white lies.  Tell the truth every time you speak, and even to yourself!

#26 Work out daily
Your mood will improve, your health will improve and it will become a habit!

#27 Wake up earlier than you normally do each day 
You will be amazed at how much more you can accomplish even waking up 30 mins earlier a day! After 30 days you may even be a morning person... MAYYYYY

#28 Don’t complain for the entire 24 hours, for 30 days
      This is a hard one, and you may fail from time to time, even positive people have an issue not saying ANYTHING negative.  Sometimes it just slips out, if it does, follow it with something positive until you have this one down.. after 30 days you will be a pro!

#29 Learn something new
Each day find something you do not know how to do and try it out.  You may find a new hobby!

#30 Do (at least) one completely selfless act each day 
       Pay things forward, go out of your way to help someone else out. Do something that takes real effort on your part while making the day of the receiver.

Now pick one or more and start your 30 day challenge to be a better version of you!!

Post 70, 2013 A little note goes a long way

I love getting little notes in the mail and I love love love sending them as well. I am really good about sending thank you notes for simple things.  I do this, because it makes me smile to let someone else know they touched my life in some way. I am not so good at the birthday cards.  I have 2 friends who are AMAZING at them.  They send birthday cards, mothers day cards, thank you notes etc. They do not just send the stock cards either, they send personalized nice cards. It always makes me smile to get these in the mail, because they are always unexpected but such a sweet gesture. It always puts a nice end to my day to get the mail and find one of these unexpected surprises.

Even at the office I have these little "free compliments" that I passed out for Christmas. It is a sheet of compliments you can pass out over the year, things like " I am glad I work with you", "I like to hear you laugh" "You have a beautiful soul"  "You have a gorgeous smile". "Thank you for all you do"  Simple right? Yet they go so far. I love coming in to my desk and seeing one of these sitting on my computer. It starts my day off so well!.

I even love when a message pops up on facebook, "Thanks for motivating me"  You are so welcome :D Those notes motivate me as well!.

So even though it takes a few minutes, try writing a note for someone. It doesn't have to be much, just a simple, "thank you for being my friend!" or "You amaze me thanks for being you"  Little notes go a long way, makes you smile and certainly will make them smile as well! So get started today!

ps thanks for reading my blog!!!

Post 69, 2013 Mantrums

I have been talking to friends lately, and all but one has a husband who throws temper tantrums on a regular basis. I find this comical. Are they raised that it is okay for them to act like this, or is this just how they are. I know some women do the same, but it seems like way more men do. In fact they seem to do it over the smallest things, that you are like whoaaaa, if you just had said something instead of throwing a tantrum, you could have avoided an argument.   Mine likes to do this and then he thinks he is punishing me, when he just punishes himself. Which makes me giggle.. after I get over wanting to beat him. (I refrain from the beating.. i swear!)
One person said, "My husband throws tantrums about hair in the sink, food not completely washed off the dishes or recycling, the children complaining, nobody listening to him, having to recheck the lights after he has locked up for the night and someone needed something downstairs and the cat getting under his feet.  This is just to name a few of the things that will start him to ranting and stomping about the house like an overgrown three year old."

Someone else, "My husband throw a big fit last week because I embarrassed him while he was on the phone with his friend. I mean WTH Really I embarrassed you. He went all out yelling at me, breaking stuff and some very hurtful things were said to be. All because I embarrassed him . And by the way, he was asking me questions while he was on the phone, and apparently my "tone" made his friend laugh. GRRR "

Another, "This is sooo great. My bf just kicked and broke our baby gate bc he was mad I step over it rather than unhooking it and I messed it up somehow. So now he kicked it and stripped it out of the wall in our brand new house."

There are tons of stories from women about this. I know I know women are guilty too, but we seem to be able to snap and get over it, and when we snap it seems to be because we are at the end of our rope, not over his laundry being on the bed and the wife not putting it up before she went to sleep, or the dog barking loud, or peeing on the floor, or the kid that talks to loud.  It is funny how different men and women are and how they deal with stress.  Definitely true that men would never make it through carrying a child and giving birth!

So when your man has a mantrum, if you can, ignore him, he will get over it.  If he is not talking to you, ignore him, he will eventually talk again. Try to keep a positive outlook and smile through his mantrum and know that just like with a child, it will end soon!

Post 68, 2013 Best Choice - when you wake up a few hours early

A lot of my friends have insomnia.. I feel bad for them. like really bad. One friend just cannot sleep. She spends hours watching infomercials, playing the Wii, reading, exercising, anything she can to keep herself occupied. I feel horrible for her. Sleep meds do not work. I have had two friends lately tell me they woke up at 5 and could not go back to sleep. Friend one decided to just go to the gym and work out a little longer than usual. Friend two decided to make breakfast for the office. I would have worked out too. To me if my mind is already awake, then the best thing I can do is work out and try to tire it a bit. Plus extra work out for me YAY! Neither persons choice was bad. One choice is definitely a healthier choice than the other. They both got up and did something they loved. Whatever your reason is for not sleeping, try to figure out why you are not sleeping, it is your mind is racing, you have to pee (that is me) your environment, etc. Then do some research on the best ways to go back to sleep. Now if you want up an hour early, do not fight it, get up, do some jumping jacks or your fave work out, then make some breakfast for others if that is your niche.. and then go to work. But definitely do something active. The more active you are during the day, the better you were sleep and the less likely you are to wake up without a full nights rest!