Without making a huge ordeal - I'll just let you know that today is my birthday. In years past I typically would have a running countdown going from about Halloween on. But for some reason this year I haven't had the same drive. It's probably linked to getting older -- except truthfully, most of the time I still feel like the tag-along kid in the majority of settings.
Day after tomorrow we head off on vacation -- one that is desperately needed! The past few months have been wicked exhausting! With work craziness (and crazies!), football madness, and general life happenings - it's been a challenge to keep all those plates spinning.
Everything keeps falling in place, for which I'm incredibly thankful to the Lord. And it's exciting to think about what's on the horizon in the next year. Hopefully I can make my way thru this next year with a bit more grace & tenacity. Birthday goal for this 27th year (or 28th year if you were to ask my beloved Gran...she had a unique way of counting birthdays) is to try something new or challenging each month. First on the docket is a mini-Hawaiian language course. Already signed up & ready to go once we get back from Mexico!
If I don't post again before leaving (which lets be honest, I probably won't....) - Merry Christmas friends. May you enjoy this time with the ones you love & know that our Christ was born to give us new birth!
Anna :)
Thursday, December 20, 2012
Monday, December 10, 2012
Just Keep Swimming....
This time of year always seems to take me by surprise. The craziness. The events. The Christmas cards. The food. It somehow always feels like a mack truck...in the best sense of the word of course.
Even with our upcoming vacation I feel totally overwhelmed. Probably because I'm trying to stuff 4 weeks of stuff and events in to 3 weeks. And likely also because I'm trying to force some files at work to get closed or as close to closed as possible before I leave.
But amidst the the chaos and craziness I'm reminded nearly every day what is worthy. My husband -- even when we have gnarly tiffs, that thankfully usually end in apologies and giggles. My family -- that endure my moody-ness because they know it's just a moment and I'll come around. My friends -- particularly the one or two very dear friends that I can share the ugliest of uglies with and not be fearful of it being broadcast to the universe. And the others who know the ways to hold me accountable. My job -- though incredibly challenging & frustrating a good portion of the time, it's incredibly important to remind myself that a job in and of itself is something to be grateful for. And a job that requires flexibility and creativity is pretty cool too. My extended family -- I often joke I've got a mafia sized family (and I really kind of do), but it's pretty fun to leave the local Christmas Pancake Breakfast at the local fire station & run in to about a dozen family members. A warm, comfy home -- a place to lay my head and kick up my feet at the end of each day.
So in an attempt to maintain my sanity in the upcoming 12 days I'll just keep staring at the photos of our hotel in Mexico, and repeat to myself "I can make it....I can make it...."
Merry Christmas friends. I'll try and get a few more posts written up here before leaving :)
Even with our upcoming vacation I feel totally overwhelmed. Probably because I'm trying to stuff 4 weeks of stuff and events in to 3 weeks. And likely also because I'm trying to force some files at work to get closed or as close to closed as possible before I leave.
But amidst the the chaos and craziness I'm reminded nearly every day what is worthy. My husband -- even when we have gnarly tiffs, that thankfully usually end in apologies and giggles. My family -- that endure my moody-ness because they know it's just a moment and I'll come around. My friends -- particularly the one or two very dear friends that I can share the ugliest of uglies with and not be fearful of it being broadcast to the universe. And the others who know the ways to hold me accountable. My job -- though incredibly challenging & frustrating a good portion of the time, it's incredibly important to remind myself that a job in and of itself is something to be grateful for. And a job that requires flexibility and creativity is pretty cool too. My extended family -- I often joke I've got a mafia sized family (and I really kind of do), but it's pretty fun to leave the local Christmas Pancake Breakfast at the local fire station & run in to about a dozen family members. A warm, comfy home -- a place to lay my head and kick up my feet at the end of each day.
So in an attempt to maintain my sanity in the upcoming 12 days I'll just keep staring at the photos of our hotel in Mexico, and repeat to myself "I can make it....I can make it...."
Merry Christmas friends. I'll try and get a few more posts written up here before leaving :)
Monday, November 26, 2012
Discomfort
Let's all just be honest for a second....no one enjoys being uncomfortable. Myself especially included. And for the sake of being honest -- I must confess that I did not stay on track as I was so hoping I would, when I shared about doing a month long work out challenge. And while I'm being honest, I can say that it's mildly embarrassing to admit that I couldn't stick with 30 days of working out....30 days of doing something active each & every day. Why you might be wondering (if you're not...it's ok, I'll just pretend you are)? Because it was or did get uncomfortable.
My chief response to discomfort...excuses. Where do most excuses lead to? Letheragy. Yup that was me the past 2 weeks. Barf! Talk about lame! I did however stick to my Turkey Dash sign up on Thanksgiving. First time I had ever signed up for a "race" or fun run by myself....literally with no plans to run with any one. I ran in to a few people at the start line, and thankfully caught up to another coach's wife who had encouraged me to run it (she's a crazy good, fast runner...despite what she might say to you!). So I ran the intervals with her & her daughter. I can almost guarantee you she would have blown me away if she were running on her own, and for that I am thankful her daughter was there! But how sad that the last 200yds I was dying! The time when you kick it in gear and I was hurting! Talk about discomfort! I did finish...I finished that 5k in about 37-40minutes (I'm the dummy that didn't start my watch!). I even got a mug to prove it!
So I'm trying to just lean in to the discomfort in my life -- because I'm finding that even if I avoid the short term discomfort, the long term is much worse. How do you "lean" in to the discomfort and ride it out??
My chief response to discomfort...excuses. Where do most excuses lead to? Letheragy. Yup that was me the past 2 weeks. Barf! Talk about lame! I did however stick to my Turkey Dash sign up on Thanksgiving. First time I had ever signed up for a "race" or fun run by myself....literally with no plans to run with any one. I ran in to a few people at the start line, and thankfully caught up to another coach's wife who had encouraged me to run it (she's a crazy good, fast runner...despite what she might say to you!). So I ran the intervals with her & her daughter. I can almost guarantee you she would have blown me away if she were running on her own, and for that I am thankful her daughter was there! But how sad that the last 200yds I was dying! The time when you kick it in gear and I was hurting! Talk about discomfort! I did finish...I finished that 5k in about 37-40minutes (I'm the dummy that didn't start my watch!). I even got a mug to prove it!
So I'm trying to just lean in to the discomfort in my life -- because I'm finding that even if I avoid the short term discomfort, the long term is much worse. How do you "lean" in to the discomfort and ride it out??
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Post Football Life!
Hooray!! We've survived our first season as Head Coach & Head Coach's wife! Though I was sad to see Honey Isaac's season end last week, I must admit I'm so thankful to get to some post football-season life!
We spent a good portion of the weekend together, which was nice. And on Monday we took a little time to go window shopping downtown. On the drive Isaac made a pretty poignant statement -- he mentioned that we really have been all engines a'blazing football wise for really 18 months. How is that you might be wondering? Well -- last year football started in August, went thru the normal season routine & while on our trip to Hawaii for Christmas the job opened at his current school. So wasting no time Isaac hit the ground running to prepare for application submission, interviews, etc. Then once he got the job it was planning, planning, planning. You probably get my point. As soon as he made that comment, a light bulb went off. No wonder we've been so tired -- feeling like we're running on fumes -- tempers a little more short than typical. It's been non-stop for months on end.
But here we are! Isaac home before 5. Ahhh...it'll be so nice. And we're only 37 days away from our Mexico vacation.....can not wait! Still trying for those few pounds, but you know what I'm going to try to mostly focus on doing something positive each day. And ultimately I know those positive choices will just start compounding. Mexico is one event -- but my life is far more important.
Plans for next week's Thanksgiving festivities???
Happy Thursday my friends!
We spent a good portion of the weekend together, which was nice. And on Monday we took a little time to go window shopping downtown. On the drive Isaac made a pretty poignant statement -- he mentioned that we really have been all engines a'blazing football wise for really 18 months. How is that you might be wondering? Well -- last year football started in August, went thru the normal season routine & while on our trip to Hawaii for Christmas the job opened at his current school. So wasting no time Isaac hit the ground running to prepare for application submission, interviews, etc. Then once he got the job it was planning, planning, planning. You probably get my point. As soon as he made that comment, a light bulb went off. No wonder we've been so tired -- feeling like we're running on fumes -- tempers a little more short than typical. It's been non-stop for months on end.
But here we are! Isaac home before 5. Ahhh...it'll be so nice. And we're only 37 days away from our Mexico vacation.....can not wait! Still trying for those few pounds, but you know what I'm going to try to mostly focus on doing something positive each day. And ultimately I know those positive choices will just start compounding. Mexico is one event -- but my life is far more important.
Plans for next week's Thanksgiving festivities???
Happy Thursday my friends!
Friday, November 9, 2012
Jillian Michaels is a B...
That's right I said it.... I've been tackling her 30 Day Shred DVD the past couple weeks (and only seriously in the last week), but let me just tell you... She is a B.
Oh sure you think 20 minutes won't kill you. You can do anything for 20 minutes. But let's get real my friends. It's a non stop 20 minutes (that statement alone makes me feel like a lazy fatty....) that honestly has left me pouring sweat after each segment. And I hate sweating. As in I really, truly, painfully dislike sweating. But I digress -- mostly, it's just uber challenging. The biggest pain I have are my calves. It's shocking how much pain I'm in after only 2 minutes of alternating jumping jacks and "jump rope." The first 2 or 3 days I had trouble walking up & down my stairs! Let alone the impact on my running.
All this aside, I can say that I can see a little change in myself. Miniscule change -- but hell, I'll take it!
I even wrote out a pre-planned calendar of workouts for the month. Each day I get a sticker if I did my work out...yes, I realize how juvenile that sounds but you'd be surprised how flippin' motivating a tiny little sticker can be! I want that sticker each day and I'll push myself thru a brutal 20min Jillian Michaels DVD, a run, Zumba, or anything else just to get that sticker!
How you do approach work outs? Pre-plan? Go with the flow? Do you plan out any rewards for yourself? Like a pedicure or massage?
Happy Friday!
Oh sure you think 20 minutes won't kill you. You can do anything for 20 minutes. But let's get real my friends. It's a non stop 20 minutes (that statement alone makes me feel like a lazy fatty....) that honestly has left me pouring sweat after each segment. And I hate sweating. As in I really, truly, painfully dislike sweating. But I digress -- mostly, it's just uber challenging. The biggest pain I have are my calves. It's shocking how much pain I'm in after only 2 minutes of alternating jumping jacks and "jump rope." The first 2 or 3 days I had trouble walking up & down my stairs! Let alone the impact on my running.
All this aside, I can say that I can see a little change in myself. Miniscule change -- but hell, I'll take it!
I even wrote out a pre-planned calendar of workouts for the month. Each day I get a sticker if I did my work out...yes, I realize how juvenile that sounds but you'd be surprised how flippin' motivating a tiny little sticker can be! I want that sticker each day and I'll push myself thru a brutal 20min Jillian Michaels DVD, a run, Zumba, or anything else just to get that sticker!
How you do approach work outs? Pre-plan? Go with the flow? Do you plan out any rewards for yourself? Like a pedicure or massage?
Happy Friday!
Thursday, November 8, 2012
I Will Until....
Real talk....marriage is tough, it's challenging, it's not always glamorous. Sure I wouldn't change or trade anything about being married to the man I love. But it would be disingenuous to posture as if life were flowers & rainbows every single day.
That being said - as of let a few of our couple friends have been working their way through some pretty tough struggles. Situations and conversations that aren't always comfortable, that don't have a nicely wrapped up resolution. Situations and conversations that sometimes lead to more questions than anything. But only for a period of time. And truthfully the only thing that keeps popping in to my head is a saying my mom shared with me once (during a period of time when it life in the Parker household was challenging)...."I will until..." This concept didn't make much sense to me at the time. But each & every time Honey Isaac & I have come to a conversation or season when life seemed particularly hard this has popped up in my head. I will do everything, I will try anything & everything, I will share, I will confess, I will surrender, I will apologize.... I will. A choice. An action. An active participation.
My heart aches for our sweet friends and those around us when these seasons rear their ugly heads. My heart breaks when people give up or surrender too easily or quickly because it doesn't "feel good." Feelings are so fickle - I'm always shocked how we, myself absolutely 100% included, make so many life changing/altering decisions based on feelings.
Remember my friends.... I will until....
Stepping of my marriage soap box now
That being said - as of let a few of our couple friends have been working their way through some pretty tough struggles. Situations and conversations that aren't always comfortable, that don't have a nicely wrapped up resolution. Situations and conversations that sometimes lead to more questions than anything. But only for a period of time. And truthfully the only thing that keeps popping in to my head is a saying my mom shared with me once (during a period of time when it life in the Parker household was challenging)...."I will until..." This concept didn't make much sense to me at the time. But each & every time Honey Isaac & I have come to a conversation or season when life seemed particularly hard this has popped up in my head. I will do everything, I will try anything & everything, I will share, I will confess, I will surrender, I will apologize.... I will. A choice. An action. An active participation.
My heart aches for our sweet friends and those around us when these seasons rear their ugly heads. My heart breaks when people give up or surrender too easily or quickly because it doesn't "feel good." Feelings are so fickle - I'm always shocked how we, myself absolutely 100% included, make so many life changing/altering decisions based on feelings.
Remember my friends.... I will until....
Stepping of my marriage soap box now
Tuesday, November 6, 2012
Small Changes
That's what I'm trying to focus on these days....small, baby-step, changes. Watching my portions. Doing something active each & every day. Hugging my husband, even when he's annoying me. Slowing down to mind my tone at work. But let's just be honest - even these "little" changes are incredibly challenging! And while we're being honest - let me also state that I am not a big fan of patience. If I'm doing something, I'd much rather see the end result in short order.....none of this keep doing it til you see it nonsense. Alas, that's pretty much how it works out in life though.
So I suppose I'll keep at my small changes. And tonight's small change - getting my work out in, finishing dinner, & finally folding the mountain of clothes in my living room. I've only about about 46 days left til Mexican vacation, so I've got zero time to waste....
How do you hang on to the end goal? Or find your motivation when things get tough? Send me your tips & tricks!
So I suppose I'll keep at my small changes. And tonight's small change - getting my work out in, finishing dinner, & finally folding the mountain of clothes in my living room. I've only about about 46 days left til Mexican vacation, so I've got zero time to waste....
How do you hang on to the end goal? Or find your motivation when things get tough? Send me your tips & tricks!
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Random Thursday
I mean really - how is this year already practically over?! I'm really being thrown for a loop - especially considering how in 61 days I'll be flying to Mexico and I've come no where near my goal that I had set...yikes
But that aside I'm trying to get myself out of that ugly funk I mentioned last week...proving to be a bit more challenging. So because I have no content for today (do I ever have real "content?") I'll share some photos from a few weeks ago when Honey Isaac's Mom & Grandma visited us for a few days. It was quite the whirlwind week for me - they came to visit & then I left for a conference in Austin, TX. But always fun to have them with us.
But that aside I'm trying to get myself out of that ugly funk I mentioned last week...proving to be a bit more challenging. So because I have no content for today (do I ever have real "content?") I'll share some photos from a few weeks ago when Honey Isaac's Mom & Grandma visited us for a few days. It was quite the whirlwind week for me - they came to visit & then I left for a conference in Austin, TX. But always fun to have them with us.
My Friend Morgan & Grandma Chiko at Isaac's game. Grandma is 90yrs old & sat thru the entire game! She's a gem! And has a pretty quick sense of humor!
3 Generations - Proud Momma & Grandma!
Honey Isaac & myself with his mom - she made an around the world trip that October, traveling from HI, to CO, back to HI, then back to OR.
Silly Goose Isaac with Grandma -- all proper!
Imitating Grandma -- jokester
It's hard I know for Isaac to be so far away from his family, so we always treasure any time we get to be together. We ate like kings - that's for sure! Tried out the new Korean restaurant in our town (used to be a Korean restaurant that Grandma Chiko really liked, but had since changed owners) - definitely more traditional than the previous owner, but DELISH! And then of course made our traditional trip to the casino for some slots & buffet. Naturally Grandma was the big winner of the day - she's so gutsy playing the $1 slots! But I tried my hand a little bit at Blackjack & made Ike $100 - which was fun. Considering I usually just kill time on the penny slots.
Trips like those remind how thankful I am, need to be, for these women who played such a huge role is Isaac's life. I definitely would not have the husband I do if it weren't for these women. Sure there are days I would like to throttle Isaac...but all in all I've managed to meet & hold on to a gem of a man. For most people, to know Isaac is to love him. I definitely feel that way (but like I said, I'm human...and there are days...) and probably need to remind myself of that more often.
It seems so easy to lose sight of the small, but most important, things in our lives - these past few months that has certainly been the case. But it's those small things that are what hold us together, give us the courage to keep going, remind us to slow down, and force us to be thankful.
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Sunday, October 28, 2012
Fail
Man I've been so lame as of late - on so many levels. I'm trying to lose weight...fail. I'm trying to increase my stamina running...fail. I was trying to keep up on my blogging...fail. Staying up on laundry/cleaning...fail. One word comes to mind for these past few weeks...UGH.
Battling a funk is so hard. Why does it have to be so hard? Why does staying motivated have to be so hard? Why does keeping it all together have to be so hard?
Really just trying to find the groove again - to find my peace - to find my routine.
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Battling a funk is so hard. Why does it have to be so hard? Why does staying motivated have to be so hard? Why does keeping it all together have to be so hard?
Really just trying to find the groove again - to find my peace - to find my routine.
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Friday, October 12, 2012
Fill in the Blank Friday
It's that time again...Friday! And thankfully for me today, it's a short one! Mother-in-law & Honey Isaac's grandma are in town for the weekend. So we're going to spend the afternoon together, probably shopping, maybe hitting up the casino...who knows :) Just happy to see how happy Honey Isaac is with his momma & grandma around. These two ladies are the primary reasons why I am blessed with such an incredible & respectful husband!
But on to the blanks! Courtesy, as always, of Lauren at the little things we do
1. My favorite flower is... Probably dahlias or jasmine (or pikake as they're referred to in Hawaii). Yeah I'd go with pikake...it is incredibly delicate and smell amazing!
2. You should never talk about... How much money you make. It always puts people in an awkward mood. I'm not opposed to talking about finances generally, because I think SO many people get incredibly confused about finances/budgeting. But talking about how much you make is weird.
3. My favorite discovery as of late is... LOFT. Seriously love everything in their store. It helps that one of their main staples is a cardigan...and I'm developing a serious addiction to cardigans!
4. This fall you will probably find me wearing... boots, skinny jeans, sweaters, cardigans (refer to question #3), and sweatshirts.
5. I wish I were... on vacation, in Maui, at the Westin Maui Resort....aka heaven on earth
6. My favorite TV show currently is... man toughy! I have a few....Grey's Anatomy, Private Practice, REVOLUTION, Parenthood, Guiliana & Bill
7. This weekend I want to... nap...but it'll probably be filled with shopping, doing laundry & packing for Austin!
Headed to Texas this week my friends -- my first trip to the Lone Star state for any real amount of time. Sadly though I'll primarily be in a conference all day, so not much time for exploring. :(
Happy Friday friends!
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But on to the blanks! Courtesy, as always, of Lauren at the little things we do
2. You should never talk about... How much money you make. It always puts people in an awkward mood. I'm not opposed to talking about finances generally, because I think SO many people get incredibly confused about finances/budgeting. But talking about how much you make is weird.
3. My favorite discovery as of late is... LOFT. Seriously love everything in their store. It helps that one of their main staples is a cardigan...and I'm developing a serious addiction to cardigans!
4. This fall you will probably find me wearing... boots, skinny jeans, sweaters, cardigans (refer to question #3), and sweatshirts.
5. I wish I were... on vacation, in Maui, at the Westin Maui Resort....aka heaven on earth
6. My favorite TV show currently is... man toughy! I have a few....Grey's Anatomy, Private Practice, REVOLUTION, Parenthood, Guiliana & Bill
7. This weekend I want to... nap...but it'll probably be filled with shopping, doing laundry & packing for Austin!
Headed to Texas this week my friends -- my first trip to the Lone Star state for any real amount of time. Sadly though I'll primarily be in a conference all day, so not much time for exploring. :(
Happy Friday friends!
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Monday, October 8, 2012
It never ends
That's right my friends....life, it never ends. Which in the big picture is quite ideal. But in the day to day mundane...gets tiring. Let's just be honest, most of last week & leading in to this week I feel as though I could sleep for days & days. Honey Isaac confirmed this same feeling this morning.
It's hard to stay focused, to stay on task, to stay motivated when you feel like there's a brick wall around every corner. To put it lightly, I'm not enjoying slamming in to those walls at each turn. Sure does get exhausting. So exhausting sometimes that it makes me wonder about other employment, other details of my life that could change...and what would life look like at that point.
That aside I am reminded many times over that there are LOTS of things to be thankful for and mindful of.
Short & sweet today...
It's hard to stay focused, to stay on task, to stay motivated when you feel like there's a brick wall around every corner. To put it lightly, I'm not enjoying slamming in to those walls at each turn. Sure does get exhausting. So exhausting sometimes that it makes me wonder about other employment, other details of my life that could change...and what would life look like at that point.
That aside I am reminded many times over that there are LOTS of things to be thankful for and mindful of.
Short & sweet today...
Monday, October 1, 2012
Excuses, Excuses
Yup - that phrase has been running on repeat in my head allllll day. I've got excuses, excuses for just about everything. Why it's easier to just run thru the drive-thru. Why I just don't have the energy to get to the gym (be it in the am or pm). Why I just shouldn't cook because I'm not as good as Isaac. And the list goes on.
About a month ago....yes I said a month....my buddy Monique & I had made a pact to lose 15-20lbs before we each took off on our respective Christmas trips (me to Mexico, her to Disneyland). Welp, it's been 30 days...and I've lost a grand total of.....0lbs! Hooray - go me! (please read that last statement with an extremely high does of sarcasm). So no more excuses....no more whining if I won't/don't put in the work!
Goals:
1. Lose 15-20lbs
2. Run 5 miles...straight thru, no walk breaks
3. Wear size 6-8 pants
4. ROCK a sweet swimsuit in Mexico!
Alright, here it goes!
About a month ago....yes I said a month....my buddy Monique & I had made a pact to lose 15-20lbs before we each took off on our respective Christmas trips (me to Mexico, her to Disneyland). Welp, it's been 30 days...and I've lost a grand total of.....0lbs! Hooray - go me! (please read that last statement with an extremely high does of sarcasm). So no more excuses....no more whining if I won't/don't put in the work!
Goals:
1. Lose 15-20lbs
2. Run 5 miles...straight thru, no walk breaks
3. Wear size 6-8 pants
4. ROCK a sweet swimsuit in Mexico!
Alright, here it goes!
Monday, September 24, 2012
Weekend Recap
Well another weekend whizzed by -- sadly.... I'm always reminded how quickly my weekends seem to dissipate. But thankfully, this week I remembered to document at least some of it! That being said, I'd still like my weekends to be a bit longer.
My solo dinners have been improving as of late.
Thursday menu: Mini turkey meatloaf & garlic green beans. Oh and not to mention one
of my new favorite drinks: Angry Orchard Hard Cider. Let's all say in unison..."yum!"
Post game get together. Tough loss this week, it was close for sure
but each week the kids & coaches look better & more comfortable.
This next week is homecoming! EEK! Cross your fingers for us!
Homecoming game at Honey Isaac's alma mater.
Smashed the visitor -- 51-10. But Honey Isaac's little cousin plays for
them, and a few good friends coach for them. So it's always nice to
see people you know & love, regardless of the mascot on their jersey.
Pre-reunion dinner walk thru Honey Isaac's college campus.
It really is a pretty campus in town -- oldest university this side of the Mississippi!
And finally, my wife fail for the weekend. There's about 3 loads of laundry
there that needed to be folded. But a nap & dinner seemed so much more important.
C'est la vie!
Trying to rally at work while being sick today...not the easiest or most enjoyable thing ever. But I'll survive....right?? My couch, tomato soup, and sleep are beckoning me!
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Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Shopping + Girlfriends
I've been here before...and I'll likely be here again... But I've got some pretty great girl friends. This past Saturday, I found myself sulking a bit and bumming it on the couch. Honey Isaac & our Celtics have a tough game the night before.
But rather than be left to my own devices(I had absolutely no intention of doing anything til date night began.) - two of my sweet friends texted to see about going shopping for a girls day!
Well thankfully this month, Honey Isaac and I set up our budget and had allotted some funds for me for some new clothing (hallelujah!). And who passes up on an opportunity for girl time & shopping. Even though I'm not super great at shopping for myself, I happily agreed! We made our way to the nearest outlet mall to do some damage...except by damage, I really mean make our way thru the stores while trying not to be too stingy. However, it was awesome to not be the only one who wanted/needed to stop in the store and do some quick math. Talk about good, like minded friends!
First stop was Banana Republic outlet...found myself a cute pair of eggplant pants (apparently dark colored jeans are still "in" for the fall) and a navy light cardigan. Nearly ate about half my budget -- which had my stingy meter on full alert. So we all promptly made our way to LOFT for some better deals. To which I ended up getting two cardigans, two v-neck sweaters, and a blouse. Morale of the story ladies & gents...go shopping with good friends, they see things MUCH differently than you, can be great encouragers, help you stay on budget track, and it's simply more fun!
My own personal lessons for the day.....I need to expand my wardrobe a bit more. I confided to my friends that I have a problem with only purchase v-neck t-shirts, and I have a serious problem purchase cardigans! They're seriously an addiction of mine. Lots of colors in short, 3/4, and full sleeve. The other lesson: find pattern that's versatile & be sure to get multiple kinds of pieces to make full outfits. This most recent trip I ended up with only one pair of pants and the rest tops...which is totally fine, but I need to remember to incorporate shoes, accessories, etc.
Makes me wish one of my favorite fashion bloggers lived closer...I'd call on her in a second!
All in all an agreement was made to make a monthly shopping trip together & help one another purge our closets quarterly! Huzzah for great friends!
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But rather than be left to my own devices(I had absolutely no intention of doing anything til date night began.) - two of my sweet friends texted to see about going shopping for a girls day!
Well thankfully this month, Honey Isaac and I set up our budget and had allotted some funds for me for some new clothing (hallelujah!). And who passes up on an opportunity for girl time & shopping. Even though I'm not super great at shopping for myself, I happily agreed! We made our way to the nearest outlet mall to do some damage...except by damage, I really mean make our way thru the stores while trying not to be too stingy. However, it was awesome to not be the only one who wanted/needed to stop in the store and do some quick math. Talk about good, like minded friends!
First stop was Banana Republic outlet...found myself a cute pair of eggplant pants (apparently dark colored jeans are still "in" for the fall) and a navy light cardigan. Nearly ate about half my budget -- which had my stingy meter on full alert. So we all promptly made our way to LOFT for some better deals. To which I ended up getting two cardigans, two v-neck sweaters, and a blouse. Morale of the story ladies & gents...go shopping with good friends, they see things MUCH differently than you, can be great encouragers, help you stay on budget track, and it's simply more fun!
My own personal lessons for the day.....I need to expand my wardrobe a bit more. I confided to my friends that I have a problem with only purchase v-neck t-shirts, and I have a serious problem purchase cardigans! They're seriously an addiction of mine. Lots of colors in short, 3/4, and full sleeve. The other lesson: find pattern that's versatile & be sure to get multiple kinds of pieces to make full outfits. This most recent trip I ended up with only one pair of pants and the rest tops...which is totally fine, but I need to remember to incorporate shoes, accessories, etc.
Makes me wish one of my favorite fashion bloggers lived closer...I'd call on her in a second!
All in all an agreement was made to make a monthly shopping trip together & help one another purge our closets quarterly! Huzzah for great friends!
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Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Afternoon Thoughts
Finally made it through my massive mountain of paperwork...finally making some progress on a couple of short sale files...and finally in the groove of football wife-dom. Taking tonight off to do some random clean up, cook dinner (eating solo isn't terrible...at least I can watch whatever trashy TV I'd like!), and laundry (a never ending cycle when sports are involved...can I get an amen?!).
In other news -- Honey Isaac & the Celtics pulled out a WIN on Friday! Hooray! Let's just say that I was one proud wifey! Besides the fact that it was sweltering hot, that game was so fun! My MIL flew in for the first home game & brought her dear friend from Portland. Definitely nice to spend some quality time together & jointly being overwhelmed with pride over Isaac. She even brought Isaac a maile lei & a lei for me too! So sweet. The stands were packed & the band played loud -- all cheering the boys on. I tried my very best not to be the crazy cuckoo wife...but with MIL in town, at least I had company being the crazy cheering fan! :) My only regret of the night: not taking a picture with Honey Isaac after the game...gah, sucky wife here! Must remember this at next game! Must remember to document our life! ha!
But highlight was the story Isaac shared with me after the game - he had told the guys his mom had flown in from Hawaii for the game, and in response the kids told him they were going to win for his mom! Stories keep coming up sharing how kind & polite all these kids are. It's such a joy to be able to hear & see the ripple effects of Isaac's hard work & goals for this program!
How's your week going? We're gearing up for week 3 of games, Isaac's in full swing at school and I'm already counting down to our Mexico trip! Note to self...MUST get new passport photo pronto! Eek! Will try and come up & some better material for future posts...I'm sure all are tired of the endless football wife posts! ;)
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In other news -- Honey Isaac & the Celtics pulled out a WIN on Friday! Hooray! Let's just say that I was one proud wifey! Besides the fact that it was sweltering hot, that game was so fun! My MIL flew in for the first home game & brought her dear friend from Portland. Definitely nice to spend some quality time together & jointly being overwhelmed with pride over Isaac. She even brought Isaac a maile lei & a lei for me too! So sweet. The stands were packed & the band played loud -- all cheering the boys on. I tried my very best not to be the crazy cuckoo wife...but with MIL in town, at least I had company being the crazy cheering fan! :) My only regret of the night: not taking a picture with Honey Isaac after the game...gah, sucky wife here! Must remember this at next game! Must remember to document our life! ha!
But highlight was the story Isaac shared with me after the game - he had told the guys his mom had flown in from Hawaii for the game, and in response the kids told him they were going to win for his mom! Stories keep coming up sharing how kind & polite all these kids are. It's such a joy to be able to hear & see the ripple effects of Isaac's hard work & goals for this program!
How's your week going? We're gearing up for week 3 of games, Isaac's in full swing at school and I'm already counting down to our Mexico trip! Note to self...MUST get new passport photo pronto! Eek! Will try and come up & some better material for future posts...I'm sure all are tired of the endless football wife posts! ;)
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Wednesday, September 5, 2012
These Days...
Well my friends we have survived the first week of real football practice, survived our first game (a whopping 4 1/2hrs south from us, and ended in a bitter loss...sad day), and survived our first weekend of meetings. Needless to say, it feels good to actually be back in to what is the Parker's "normal" routine. I always feel a little jolt as we move in to this season....a small shock to the system as it all comes together. But once in the swing of it, it feels right. Sure there are nights when I'd like my honey home early to eat at a "normal" time & it'd be awesome to snuggle on the couch the entire Sunday afternoon....but truth be told, Isaac is doing what he loves & what he is meant to do. How can I be mad about that??
And these days....have already brought a few instances where my husband's incredible patience has needed to shine through. For which I am amazed - can't say I would be as gracious, as cool under pressure, or as clear minded. Can we say rockstar or what?!
But most importantly these days - I've been reminded (even though that ugly little voice is trying with all its might to distract me with lies) that I am loved and supported by some pretty wonderful family & friends. Ever have one of those days when just everything seems to be falling apart at the seams? Yup, that was my Tuesday....or what I'm calling Monday on steroids. Rather than crumbling to that ugly voice (which would and sometimes still is my norm) - I thrust out my hand to my sweet friends; who without hesitation offered prayer, encouragement, and love. Let's just get this clear - for a girl who never thought of herself as a "girls girl" - I am BEYOND grateful for this group of women who I am growing to know, trust, & love. What a blessing to know I can turn to these women even with the smallest, or ugliest things and know that I'm not alone. Weight lifted! Which in turn obviously makes me want to return the favor - to them, to the other football wives/girlfriends, to my other dear friends, to family...catch the drift? Ya know, pay it forward??
Just for good measure - here's a photo from Honey Isaac's first football game... I was a smidge late, and missed the kick off (insert wife guilt here....) but by & by could not be more proud of him.
That's him in the center w/ the black hat & blue shirt. Thankfully we're on to the next game & everyone is ready to take on the new challenge. Will try to keep my cool at the game this week...don't want to be the cooky wife!
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And these days....have already brought a few instances where my husband's incredible patience has needed to shine through. For which I am amazed - can't say I would be as gracious, as cool under pressure, or as clear minded. Can we say rockstar or what?!
But most importantly these days - I've been reminded (even though that ugly little voice is trying with all its might to distract me with lies) that I am loved and supported by some pretty wonderful family & friends. Ever have one of those days when just everything seems to be falling apart at the seams? Yup, that was my Tuesday....or what I'm calling Monday on steroids. Rather than crumbling to that ugly voice (which would and sometimes still is my norm) - I thrust out my hand to my sweet friends; who without hesitation offered prayer, encouragement, and love. Let's just get this clear - for a girl who never thought of herself as a "girls girl" - I am BEYOND grateful for this group of women who I am growing to know, trust, & love. What a blessing to know I can turn to these women even with the smallest, or ugliest things and know that I'm not alone. Weight lifted! Which in turn obviously makes me want to return the favor - to them, to the other football wives/girlfriends, to my other dear friends, to family...catch the drift? Ya know, pay it forward??
Just for good measure - here's a photo from Honey Isaac's first football game... I was a smidge late, and missed the kick off (insert wife guilt here....) but by & by could not be more proud of him.
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Tuesday, August 28, 2012
Proud Wifey, Good Friends, & Blue Day
I first must apologize for my MIA status....life, as expected, has gone complete nutty with the start of football. But like me, I'm sure you all have craziness of your own.
As mentioned, football is in full swing (even though I've said this before, now it's real & true). Two weekends ago we had our coaches BBQ, which was the first sign. Then we moved straight in to doubles week...aka, don't see your husband week. Thankfully enough I have some pretty wonderful friends who invite me to share in their evening routines. Thursday night of last week was spent with some dear friends having dinner, watching flag football, and observing a very rowdy baby boy getting a hair cut...let's just say there was hair everywhere. And again super blessed by good friends on Friday night when a sweet friend tagged along with me to make some Head Coach's Wife errands & deliveries. Followed up by a good dinner & conversation. A reminder, yet again, that friends are the family that you get to pick!
Which brings me to McNary High School's first ever "Blue Day" extravaganza held on Saturday. Honey Isaac & a Rotarian in town have been working on hammering out details for this even for months. Our local Rotary club sponsored the event & offered to host/cook for McNary's Football team & parents, the Pop Warner teams in our area, McNary's marching band, as well as our cheerleaders. The booster club made it's presence known by having NEW McNary merchandise to outfit fans. It was an absolutely wonderful day. I showed up about 9:30 and there were already about 50 people putting things together, getting grills warmed up, setting up shirts and yard signs to sell. So I spent my time in the Booster Club tent selling sweatshirts & t-shirts & more. It was so fun! Honey Isaac asked if I caught any of the scrimmage...to which I sheepishly answered no, I was too busy selling the new duds! Our friends from the Rotary club shared that they fed nearly 1,000 people! Amazing! Blue Day was an incredible success - but the best part of all was seeing how our community banded together in support & how that day really has built some excitement for what's to come! For this coach's wife I was more than honored to be able to field so many compliments from our new friends about what a wonderful job Isaac is doing (duh!), and how happy they are to have someone at the helm who is genuinely excited about growing a strong, successful, and well rounded program & community! *insert puffed up chest here* Talk about extreme pride & joy spilling out from my heart. Plus it was just plain cool to really get my first glimpse of Isaac in his role as the Head Coach of the program!
Here are two photos from the day taken by the gentleman who helped organize the whole event...
As mentioned, football is in full swing (even though I've said this before, now it's real & true). Two weekends ago we had our coaches BBQ, which was the first sign. Then we moved straight in to doubles week...aka, don't see your husband week. Thankfully enough I have some pretty wonderful friends who invite me to share in their evening routines. Thursday night of last week was spent with some dear friends having dinner, watching flag football, and observing a very rowdy baby boy getting a hair cut...let's just say there was hair everywhere. And again super blessed by good friends on Friday night when a sweet friend tagged along with me to make some Head Coach's Wife errands & deliveries. Followed up by a good dinner & conversation. A reminder, yet again, that friends are the family that you get to pick!
Which brings me to McNary High School's first ever "Blue Day" extravaganza held on Saturday. Honey Isaac & a Rotarian in town have been working on hammering out details for this even for months. Our local Rotary club sponsored the event & offered to host/cook for McNary's Football team & parents, the Pop Warner teams in our area, McNary's marching band, as well as our cheerleaders. The booster club made it's presence known by having NEW McNary merchandise to outfit fans. It was an absolutely wonderful day. I showed up about 9:30 and there were already about 50 people putting things together, getting grills warmed up, setting up shirts and yard signs to sell. So I spent my time in the Booster Club tent selling sweatshirts & t-shirts & more. It was so fun! Honey Isaac asked if I caught any of the scrimmage...to which I sheepishly answered no, I was too busy selling the new duds! Our friends from the Rotary club shared that they fed nearly 1,000 people! Amazing! Blue Day was an incredible success - but the best part of all was seeing how our community banded together in support & how that day really has built some excitement for what's to come! For this coach's wife I was more than honored to be able to field so many compliments from our new friends about what a wonderful job Isaac is doing (duh!), and how happy they are to have someone at the helm who is genuinely excited about growing a strong, successful, and well rounded program & community! *insert puffed up chest here* Talk about extreme pride & joy spilling out from my heart. Plus it was just plain cool to really get my first glimpse of Isaac in his role as the Head Coach of the program!
Here are two photos from the day taken by the gentleman who helped organize the whole event...
Honey Isaac & our mayor Lore Christopher...she was our MC for the day
Myself & the booster club presidents youngest daughter...selling our little hearts out!
It was, again, such a fun day...and made me so thankful & happy to be starting this new journey with so many wonderful, new friends. Blessings, blessings, blessings!
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Tuesday, August 14, 2012
morning workouts are a mother
Let's not play games...getting to and completing morning workouts are a beast. Pre-vacation I was on a pretty good routine. Post-vacation....sucks-ville. Can't seem to get my rear end out of bed when I intend to & get myself to the gym! Or heck, even my living room for a little Jillian Michaels session!
My sweet friend Monique is such an encourager -- I sent her a text this morning (our morning ritual) bemoaning my lack of discipline to get to the gym, and her simple reply was to go at night & do what I can! Yah...do what I can, when I can! Sounds so good, so easy. And yet, in the evenings it's so challenging (note I did not say impossible....). The two of us are on a journey this fall -- we've got a larger goal, and are determined to celebrate small milestones too. But I've got to do the work!
I suppose the best & only thing to do is to just keep doing what I can, when I can....and be disciplined to actually take advantage of the time that I have. Frankly, with football here (our non-stop weekends kick off this weekend) now I've got plenty of time on my hands! Time to pull out the mini-Marine my parents instilled in me and get to work!
How do you muster up the energy/determination/discipline to get up for morning workouts?
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My sweet friend Monique is such an encourager -- I sent her a text this morning (our morning ritual) bemoaning my lack of discipline to get to the gym, and her simple reply was to go at night & do what I can! Yah...do what I can, when I can! Sounds so good, so easy. And yet, in the evenings it's so challenging (note I did not say impossible....). The two of us are on a journey this fall -- we've got a larger goal, and are determined to celebrate small milestones too. But I've got to do the work!
I suppose the best & only thing to do is to just keep doing what I can, when I can....and be disciplined to actually take advantage of the time that I have. Frankly, with football here (our non-stop weekends kick off this weekend) now I've got plenty of time on my hands! Time to pull out the mini-Marine my parents instilled in me and get to work!
How do you muster up the energy/determination/discipline to get up for morning workouts?
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Friday, August 10, 2012
Fill In The Blank Friday
Man it's been a while since I've done this...but with such a quiet office this morning, might as well!
Linking up with Lauren at the little things we do
1. The age I will be on my upcoming birthday is 27...crazy to think about, but it doesn't really bother me.
2. The best birthday present ever would be a new complete, wonderful, beautiful wardrobe that fit me perfectly! Oh, and a trip to Fiji :)
3. My favorite birthday to date was My 21st birthday by far! Mom & I took a girls only trip to New York City...My birthday is 5 days before Christmas, so NYC was all decked out in its Christmas regalia, and it was awesome! We went to shows, shopped, had great meals, saw the city, & mastered the subway! It was fantastic!
4. Birthdays make me feel special & loved. Simple as that
5. The worst birthday I ever had was Um, I can't really think of one -- maybe the only bad one was the year we were traveling on my actual birthday, but we were going to Hawaii so it wasn't too terrible. I try not to make a huge deal about doing things on or for my birthday....a couple presents & cards, but most importantly dinner with my family.
6. When I was born... apparently my dad took the most round about way to the hospital, my sweet mom was in labor with me for 22 hours, my darling grandparents waited patiently & my dad rubbed my moms back for hours while playing the sound track to the move "Somewhere in Time." I was born at 10:05pm, 7lbs 40z & 19in long. Was a little tuckered out & didn't quite want to breathe on my own so I spent a little time in the NICU. But what that ultimately meant was that my parents brought me home on Christmas Eve in a giant red stocking...the best Christmas present they've ever gotten ;) But my dad spent that night on the couch with me sleeping on his chest until Christmas morning.
7. So far my favorite age has been I think maybe 22 -- I graduated from college, got engaged (a HUGE surprise planned by honey Isaac) in Palm Springs, had my first Christmas in Hawaii, spent Spring Break in Palm Springs with family, and got married! That was such a whirlwind & fun year!
*Side note on when I was born...that sound track to that movie is big in our family. My parents watch it every year on Valentine's Day & have since they were married. The music was playing when I was born. And the theme song is the song my Dad walked me down the aisle to. It is by far some of the most beautiful music - if you're so inclined, look it up on iTunes. So pretty.
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1. The age I will be on my upcoming birthday is 27...crazy to think about, but it doesn't really bother me.
2. The best birthday present ever would be a new complete, wonderful, beautiful wardrobe that fit me perfectly! Oh, and a trip to Fiji :)
3. My favorite birthday to date was My 21st birthday by far! Mom & I took a girls only trip to New York City...My birthday is 5 days before Christmas, so NYC was all decked out in its Christmas regalia, and it was awesome! We went to shows, shopped, had great meals, saw the city, & mastered the subway! It was fantastic!
4. Birthdays make me feel special & loved. Simple as that
5. The worst birthday I ever had was Um, I can't really think of one -- maybe the only bad one was the year we were traveling on my actual birthday, but we were going to Hawaii so it wasn't too terrible. I try not to make a huge deal about doing things on or for my birthday....a couple presents & cards, but most importantly dinner with my family.
6. When I was born... apparently my dad took the most round about way to the hospital, my sweet mom was in labor with me for 22 hours, my darling grandparents waited patiently & my dad rubbed my moms back for hours while playing the sound track to the move "Somewhere in Time." I was born at 10:05pm, 7lbs 40z & 19in long. Was a little tuckered out & didn't quite want to breathe on my own so I spent a little time in the NICU. But what that ultimately meant was that my parents brought me home on Christmas Eve in a giant red stocking...the best Christmas present they've ever gotten ;) But my dad spent that night on the couch with me sleeping on his chest until Christmas morning.
7. So far my favorite age has been I think maybe 22 -- I graduated from college, got engaged (a HUGE surprise planned by honey Isaac) in Palm Springs, had my first Christmas in Hawaii, spent Spring Break in Palm Springs with family, and got married! That was such a whirlwind & fun year!
*Side note on when I was born...that sound track to that movie is big in our family. My parents watch it every year on Valentine's Day & have since they were married. The music was playing when I was born. And the theme song is the song my Dad walked me down the aisle to. It is by far some of the most beautiful music - if you're so inclined, look it up on iTunes. So pretty.
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Wednesday, August 8, 2012
Football Widow No More
Before you get all worked up...don't worry...Isaac is still coaching football. ;)
I have a few friends who are coach's wives, follow a few ladies on Blogger/Twitter who know the perils of the season, and am pretty familiar with the struggles that the fall can bring. And of course I've seen images like this floating around Pinterest
There is definitely a common theme amongst football wives/girlfriends -- a common identifier of being a "football widow" once fall camp kicks off. Sometimes, truthfully, that indentifier has been used a guilt trip tool on my behalf. I've used it to bemoan my situation. I've used it to justify bratty behavior, or simply to not do the dishes. How silly & selfish of me. Here my husband is being used by the Lord in a way that he is able to be excellent, in a way that allows him unprecedented access to kids & their hearts, and in a way that offers opportunities for him to coach up, encourage, and in specific ways share his faith. How awesome is that? And yet, there I am...at home...one of his few places of peace/safety...acting selfishly because I am a football widow. Hello kick to the gut!
Rather this fall I want to encourage Isaac, cover him, the coaches, & players in prayer, & free Isaac from the burden of having to dance to all my little demands(though sometimes they're not little, in all honesty). I am casting off that identifier -- and instead replacing it with something like "football encourager," or even just....football wife! Remove the negative & replace with positive! If you're of the praying sort, would you be interested in joining me pray for the McNary football team & coaches? Just shoot me a message/comment & once I have the list I'll share it with you.
And just for good measure...I did find a few photos from the trusty ol' iPhone from vacation!
Where I spent most of my days...Eagle Crest Resort Pool...aka heaven!
I have a few friends who are coach's wives, follow a few ladies on Blogger/Twitter who know the perils of the season, and am pretty familiar with the struggles that the fall can bring. And of course I've seen images like this floating around Pinterest
There is definitely a common theme amongst football wives/girlfriends -- a common identifier of being a "football widow" once fall camp kicks off. Sometimes, truthfully, that indentifier has been used a guilt trip tool on my behalf. I've used it to bemoan my situation. I've used it to justify bratty behavior, or simply to not do the dishes. How silly & selfish of me. Here my husband is being used by the Lord in a way that he is able to be excellent, in a way that allows him unprecedented access to kids & their hearts, and in a way that offers opportunities for him to coach up, encourage, and in specific ways share his faith. How awesome is that? And yet, there I am...at home...one of his few places of peace/safety...acting selfishly because I am a football widow. Hello kick to the gut!
Rather this fall I want to encourage Isaac, cover him, the coaches, & players in prayer, & free Isaac from the burden of having to dance to all my little demands(though sometimes they're not little, in all honesty). I am casting off that identifier -- and instead replacing it with something like "football encourager," or even just....football wife! Remove the negative & replace with positive! If you're of the praying sort, would you be interested in joining me pray for the McNary football team & coaches? Just shoot me a message/comment & once I have the list I'll share it with you.
And just for good measure...I did find a few photos from the trusty ol' iPhone from vacation!
At the awesome Cascade Lakes Brewing Co. during our Ale Trail!
Where I spent most of my days...Eagle Crest Resort Pool...aka heaven!
And just for fun & reminiscing purposes...
Hard to believe it's already been 3 years!
Many more to come....now if only I could get back in to pre-wedding shape! FALL GOAL! ;)
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Tuesday, August 7, 2012
The Hunger Games, Sunburns, & the Ale Trail
We have returned from our long awaited, and long over due, vacation. Sadly...to be honest. I always hate leaving Eagle Crest. It's definitely one of my most favorite, sacred places.
The first moment I stepped out of our car last week Saturday and caught my first sniff of those lovely juniper trees I was in heaven! The first weekend we spent time with my folks & boy did I kick the weekend off like a rookie! Mom & I spent a few hours at the pool while the guys golfed -- and dope that I am entirely forgot to have sunscreen be put on my back! Well...except for the parts I could reach with my own hands, rubbing in my spray sunscreen! A mere 3-4hours later in the Central OR sun and I was pretty toasty! So toasty in fact that mom & I had to spend the next day in sweet Sisters, OR just to avoid the pool. How lame, the thing I love to do the most at Eagle Crest & I botched it for myself for like 2 days!
A nice weekend with my parents led straight in to a few days just Isaac & I -- which let me tell you....this time was much needed! We haven't had quiet, alone time with no work or football distractions in some time. Sure he took care of a few items but for the most part it was just us relaxing, watching the Olympics, and hanging out! Let's just say it was awesome :)
Highlight of my week was finishing about 5 books - and primarily the entire Hunger Games Trilogy. I'm not one who jumps on band wagons much. In fact, I tend to steer clear of all the "popular" things for a while. So with all the craziness dying down I tracked down a set & happily read thru them in 4 days. It was great! Not as intense as I was expecting, but the 3rd book definitely was the best of all 3. There were a few moments of "oh my goodness!" But it definitely makes me want to see the movie now & anticipate the upcoming movies!
And finally ended our week with wonderful friends joining us for the last few days. Time filled with my best girl friend at the pool while the boys went on adventures (let me tell you friends...this is the BEST set up for traveling with friends!). We'd laze around in the morning, make our way to the pool about 11am and stay there til mid afternoon. Ahhh...it was awesome! Highlight of this time was doing the Bend Ale Trail. The Bend, OR visitors center has a designated a route to take to visit some of the best known & newer breweries in the area. You go & taste, purchase some drinks & food and get a stamp! Once you've visited all the breweries you take your little pamphlet back to the visitors center for a prize! It's definitely a fun way to spend some time with good friends. It can be as cheap or as expensive as you want -- we spent some extra purchasing some beer pints at each spot & some yummy food. Definitely something to check in to!
Though I promised photos....I can not deliver. I get too focused on who I'm with and what we're doing to stop & document (silly me...). I think that's going to be one of my goals this fall while Isaac is off being a big time head coach & all. I'll start documenting what happens so we can look back & enjoy.
SUUUUUUUPER side note....Honey Isaac & I bought a new small vacuum cleaner (our hardwood one bit the dust after 3 years...) & it's a lovely Elextrolux. And sweetie Isaac said I could be just like Kelly Ripa now... Yah, not so sure about that. ;)
Happy to be home as always, but football is now in FULL swing with lineman camp this week, team camp next week, doubles the following week, & then practice before the first game. Jealous yet?? I'm trying to squeeze out my last few projects from Isaac and then it'll be all hands on deck for me with the house/cleaning/cooking/etc. Such is life!
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The first moment I stepped out of our car last week Saturday and caught my first sniff of those lovely juniper trees I was in heaven! The first weekend we spent time with my folks & boy did I kick the weekend off like a rookie! Mom & I spent a few hours at the pool while the guys golfed -- and dope that I am entirely forgot to have sunscreen be put on my back! Well...except for the parts I could reach with my own hands, rubbing in my spray sunscreen! A mere 3-4hours later in the Central OR sun and I was pretty toasty! So toasty in fact that mom & I had to spend the next day in sweet Sisters, OR just to avoid the pool. How lame, the thing I love to do the most at Eagle Crest & I botched it for myself for like 2 days!
A nice weekend with my parents led straight in to a few days just Isaac & I -- which let me tell you....this time was much needed! We haven't had quiet, alone time with no work or football distractions in some time. Sure he took care of a few items but for the most part it was just us relaxing, watching the Olympics, and hanging out! Let's just say it was awesome :)
Highlight of my week was finishing about 5 books - and primarily the entire Hunger Games Trilogy. I'm not one who jumps on band wagons much. In fact, I tend to steer clear of all the "popular" things for a while. So with all the craziness dying down I tracked down a set & happily read thru them in 4 days. It was great! Not as intense as I was expecting, but the 3rd book definitely was the best of all 3. There were a few moments of "oh my goodness!" But it definitely makes me want to see the movie now & anticipate the upcoming movies!
And finally ended our week with wonderful friends joining us for the last few days. Time filled with my best girl friend at the pool while the boys went on adventures (let me tell you friends...this is the BEST set up for traveling with friends!). We'd laze around in the morning, make our way to the pool about 11am and stay there til mid afternoon. Ahhh...it was awesome! Highlight of this time was doing the Bend Ale Trail. The Bend, OR visitors center has a designated a route to take to visit some of the best known & newer breweries in the area. You go & taste, purchase some drinks & food and get a stamp! Once you've visited all the breweries you take your little pamphlet back to the visitors center for a prize! It's definitely a fun way to spend some time with good friends. It can be as cheap or as expensive as you want -- we spent some extra purchasing some beer pints at each spot & some yummy food. Definitely something to check in to!
Though I promised photos....I can not deliver. I get too focused on who I'm with and what we're doing to stop & document (silly me...). I think that's going to be one of my goals this fall while Isaac is off being a big time head coach & all. I'll start documenting what happens so we can look back & enjoy.
SUUUUUUUPER side note....Honey Isaac & I bought a new small vacuum cleaner (our hardwood one bit the dust after 3 years...) & it's a lovely Elextrolux. And sweetie Isaac said I could be just like Kelly Ripa now... Yah, not so sure about that. ;)
Happy to be home as always, but football is now in FULL swing with lineman camp this week, team camp next week, doubles the following week, & then practice before the first game. Jealous yet?? I'm trying to squeeze out my last few projects from Isaac and then it'll be all hands on deck for me with the house/cleaning/cooking/etc. Such is life!
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Friday, July 27, 2012
oh yes...vacation!
I'm just under the 24hour mark for the beginning of my week long vacation for "dead week." Nothing spectacular planned. Just time away with my husband, my folks for a few days, & some of our very dear friends. I am beyond ready for some quiet, lazy mornings, afternoons by the pool, nights filled with games & laughter, and lots of quality time with Isaac.
Small frustration slightly related to vacation (for next year that is....) - the place we are going & were hoping to go next year changed their reservation process (one that has been in place my entire life) and so we aren't able to get reserved for next year! Bah-humbug! So we'll try and figure something else out...perhaps book a week & trade for something over spring break. Meh - we shall see.
Back to the good, right?! So I'm going to focus on beautiful weather that's expected. Quiet mornings. And most of all gearing up for this football season. Prepping my heart & mind for all that will come with being the head coach's wife....whatever that means! ;)
As always, I'll try and snap some photos -- but I'll fore warn you, they'll probably all be iPhone or instagram. Sue me for being lazy! ha
Enjoy your week friends!
<3
Small frustration slightly related to vacation (for next year that is....) - the place we are going & were hoping to go next year changed their reservation process (one that has been in place my entire life) and so we aren't able to get reserved for next year! Bah-humbug! So we'll try and figure something else out...perhaps book a week & trade for something over spring break. Meh - we shall see.
Back to the good, right?! So I'm going to focus on beautiful weather that's expected. Quiet mornings. And most of all gearing up for this football season. Prepping my heart & mind for all that will come with being the head coach's wife....whatever that means! ;)
As always, I'll try and snap some photos -- but I'll fore warn you, they'll probably all be iPhone or instagram. Sue me for being lazy! ha
Enjoy your week friends!
<3
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
meh
Let me just put this out there -- I am not the girl that gets excited to go to the gym. I am not the girl who is able to or wants to plan/prepare a weeks worth of meals or snacks. I am definitely not the girl who can do a ton & go to the gym and lose 1-2lbs after all that work.
Want to know how I know this? Because today this has sort of slapped me in the face. Granted I'm trying to just drag my butt to the gym and do something. But boy oh boy is it challenging when you have to face the fact that everything is just going to be a little bit harder. And it's not so stellar to have to come to terms that what I see as a ton of work will not warrant the kind of results I would want or hope for. Blah kind of sad & frustrating all at the same time.
And so I have found myself in a little bit of a funk tonight - trying not to let it overwhelm me. So tomorrow morning, I'll get up early like I have been and take myself to the gym. Small choices piled on top of one another will make a difference later down the road...right?? I sure hope so.
<3
Want to know how I know this? Because today this has sort of slapped me in the face. Granted I'm trying to just drag my butt to the gym and do something. But boy oh boy is it challenging when you have to face the fact that everything is just going to be a little bit harder. And it's not so stellar to have to come to terms that what I see as a ton of work will not warrant the kind of results I would want or hope for. Blah kind of sad & frustrating all at the same time.
And so I have found myself in a little bit of a funk tonight - trying not to let it overwhelm me. So tomorrow morning, I'll get up early like I have been and take myself to the gym. Small choices piled on top of one another will make a difference later down the road...right?? I sure hope so.
<3
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
Small Goals
I'm reminded again to set small goals -- rather than focusing on the huge, imposing end result I would like. Often I just lose myself in the mess of things "to do" trying to get to the end. So...with the encouragement of my buddy Mo I'm staying tightly focused on one goal. 5lbs between now & when I leave for vacation....that's a grand total of 17 days from now. Now sure if it's do-able, but dang it I'm going to try!
Goals & gym routines aside, life is good. Sure there are challenges still with figuring out this whole new football life. Sure Isaac & I still have our mis-communications. And sure, work is still beyond challenging at times. But all in all, things are good. Things are better than what they could be. And it's about time I start praising, even the smallest things, my life & the goodness of the Lord in my life. Good ol' Joyce Meyer has been speaking some truth the last few days and it's incredibly challenging to me & the way I've been "doing" my life the last few years. Why waste the opportunity to be blessed or be a blessing to spend time griping or being a pain? It won't and never is easy to re-train your brain or behaviors....and I have a pretty good feeling this will be incredibly difficult, but necessary.
We talked last evening in our girls group about the wide path vs the narrow path. And what does that actually, functionally look like in each of our lives? Is the narrow path the same for everyone or does it vary? How can we walk the narrow path in our thoughts, in our speech, with our family, in our places of work, etc. Thoughts to ponder....
Have a great day friends
<3
Goals & gym routines aside, life is good. Sure there are challenges still with figuring out this whole new football life. Sure Isaac & I still have our mis-communications. And sure, work is still beyond challenging at times. But all in all, things are good. Things are better than what they could be. And it's about time I start praising, even the smallest things, my life & the goodness of the Lord in my life. Good ol' Joyce Meyer has been speaking some truth the last few days and it's incredibly challenging to me & the way I've been "doing" my life the last few years. Why waste the opportunity to be blessed or be a blessing to spend time griping or being a pain? It won't and never is easy to re-train your brain or behaviors....and I have a pretty good feeling this will be incredibly difficult, but necessary.
We talked last evening in our girls group about the wide path vs the narrow path. And what does that actually, functionally look like in each of our lives? Is the narrow path the same for everyone or does it vary? How can we walk the narrow path in our thoughts, in our speech, with our family, in our places of work, etc. Thoughts to ponder....
Have a great day friends
<3
Thursday, July 5, 2012
my oh my
Where has the time gone?! Honestly - how is it already July 5th?! Crikey! So many things seem to be whizzing by.
Which means that in no time I'll be sitting at football games. In no time I'll be cooking/cleaning/organizing on my own. In no time I'll be doing the majority of grocery shopping. In no time I'll be eating Thanksgiving dinner. And in no time, it'll be my birthday & Christmas all over again! Now that is just nutty.
But the other thing that's stopping me in my tracks is the need to slow it down & really appreciate the small moments. To relish in the sweet conversations with good friends. To reach out to people as they come to my mind. And most of all to not settle for living in a mediocre state -- and this is definitely hitting hard in all areas of my life.
I recently tried to do a daily chore list & started off GREAT. But got off track....so as my dear friend Monique says, "Try again tomorrow & be mindful to do it better!" So that's exactly what I intend to do.
How are you handling how quickly this year is going?
<3
Which means that in no time I'll be sitting at football games. In no time I'll be cooking/cleaning/organizing on my own. In no time I'll be doing the majority of grocery shopping. In no time I'll be eating Thanksgiving dinner. And in no time, it'll be my birthday & Christmas all over again! Now that is just nutty.
But the other thing that's stopping me in my tracks is the need to slow it down & really appreciate the small moments. To relish in the sweet conversations with good friends. To reach out to people as they come to my mind. And most of all to not settle for living in a mediocre state -- and this is definitely hitting hard in all areas of my life.
I recently tried to do a daily chore list & started off GREAT. But got off track....so as my dear friend Monique says, "Try again tomorrow & be mindful to do it better!" So that's exactly what I intend to do.
How are you handling how quickly this year is going?
<3
Friday, June 29, 2012
finally some peace
This may sound odd and/or confusing to some. But the past few months have been frustrating, confusing, un-nerving, etc for me. Most of the time I've been feeling unsettled, uncertain, uncomfortable....a lot of "un" whatever. And somewhere in the most recent weeks that is seemingly melting away in general. Sure there are parts of my life/body that still have me in that "un" place -- but for the most part I'm finding a sense a peace. A sense of creating my routine, my general demeanor towards life & being OK with what is.
And in all honesty - I've been needing that peace with all the changes going on around me. Thank you Lord for your peace that passes all understanding & for leaving your peace with me!
Now...bring on the weekend! Hope you enjoy yours friends!
<3
And in all honesty - I've been needing that peace with all the changes going on around me. Thank you Lord for your peace that passes all understanding & for leaving your peace with me!
Now...bring on the weekend! Hope you enjoy yours friends!
<3
Friday, June 22, 2012
a trip, some photos, & a thought
This past weekend, Isaac & I made our way to Denver. The objective in traveling to the Mile High City: visit with Isaac's brother, wife, & meet our new nephew Kapono. Definitely a trip we were looking forward to - and were happy to add it in to our typical 3 trip/year agenda. I mean who doesn't love holding a cooing baby?! Plus, it was really nice to have some quality time with my brother-in-law & sister-in-law. Time to rest, time to visit, time to just stare at the little guy & chuckle together at his pouty lip (that he is very quickly mastering). Parker man & I decided to stay at a hotel about 15/20 minutes from our family - mostly because I really didn't want to put pressure on them about having to "entertain" us, or worry about waking us or vice versa. It actually worked out really well....because one day my SIL Crystal had some errands to run & the boys wanted to shoot guns. So I dropped Parker man off at their house & made my way back to our hotel to rest, do some work, and putz around. Everyone did what they needed/wanted to do & were happy. Most of all it was just great to build some memories together and visit. Definitely my favorite thing to do. We even cooked up a quick Hawaiian dinner for Matt for his first Father's Day -- and I know being there for that made Isaac super proud of his brother. I can tell how proud he is of Matt & how well/fast he's taken to being a dad. A reminder of all the blessings in our families!
Here are a few photos snapped over the long weekend....sorry for the poor quality, I forgot our camera & only had the trusty iPhone available!
Here are a few photos snapped over the long weekend....sorry for the poor quality, I forgot our camera & only had the trusty iPhone available!
Kapono boy himself -- such a sweet heart! And with reddish/brown hair & light eyes, so cute!
Parker & Kapono visiting -- Pono was a fan of Uncle's tummy!
Big man put the little man in his jammies
On our last morning sitting in Pono's favorite spot -- the front porch.
Sad to leave the little guy but excited to see how he grows!
Parker man found a new "use" for the Boppy...haha
Kapono in love with his "My Little Lamb" swing. He was happy as a clam watching the mobile go round & round.
Isaac & I were reminded of how many blessings there are all around us. Though there are challenges, nothing really outshines or should out weigh the goodness that surrounds. Maybe it's babies that bring things back to center - their needs are simple. Their love pure. A reminder to care for & love one another in that same manner....to only expect people to be exactly who they are & respect them for that.
<3
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Random Thoughts & Photos
Random thoughts for this Wednesday:
1. I love friends who are encouraging, especially in the area of healthy living. I so appreciate encouragement, kind reminders, & grace!
2. It's time to get my hair cut again - but I'm afraid my hair dresser cousin is still going to be disappointed in my "damaged" hair...it's much better than it was previously, but now I'm all anxious about it. Silly I know.
3. Hoping the Ft. Collins, CO fires won't disrupt our travel plans to see family this weekend...must call hotel.
4. Exactly 45 days til our Eagle Crest vacation! HUZZAH! Top 5 favorite places on earth.
5. Can someone please teach me how to be a wash & go kind of girl...I want healthy happy hair, but mine always seems to be a frizzy mess if I leave it to its own devices. Ready go!
Welp, that's all I've got for today friends....
<3
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
do not be afraid
There's been a stirring in my over the last 6-9months. A stirring I've been thoroughly confused by. A stirring that has taken me from one emotion to the next - mostly because I was & still am quite uncertain of what the stirring means.
As a self-proclaimed control "freak" these kinds of stirrings - you know, the ones with no clear direction or meaning - tend to throw me off my game. Truth be told I've mostly been stuffing or ignoring this stirring. Probably because it seemed easier to do that than sit & dig in to what might be behind that stirring (sorry for the extreme use of the word stirring... can't think of a better term).
Last evening I was blessed to be in fellowship with some of the kindest, warmest women I have met. Women who inspire me to be authentic, women who's beauty is far deeper than just what is seen, women who, even if its just in that moment, are not afraid to live from their most confident place. In our study time last evening I had a bit a revelation...that often times I make my own plans and develop entire scenarios/experiences in my own head & completely miss what the Lord is doing or is trying to teach me. Looking back I think of all the things that I have missed -- how sad.
And I'm noticing in the past few days that God is clearly saying to me (the only clear thing I have right now) is to not be afraid. In my weekly memory verse, in my morning study, in the quiet wisdom from trusted friends.
Who knows what that stirring is or what it means. But what I do know is that I will not be afraid. I will trust & I will praise -- because there is nothing that the Lord is doing that will bring harm.
<3
"When I am afraid, I will put my trust in You. In God, whose word I praise, In God I have put my trust; I shall not be afraid. What can mere man do to me?" Psalm 56:3-4
As a self-proclaimed control "freak" these kinds of stirrings - you know, the ones with no clear direction or meaning - tend to throw me off my game. Truth be told I've mostly been stuffing or ignoring this stirring. Probably because it seemed easier to do that than sit & dig in to what might be behind that stirring (sorry for the extreme use of the word stirring... can't think of a better term).
Last evening I was blessed to be in fellowship with some of the kindest, warmest women I have met. Women who inspire me to be authentic, women who's beauty is far deeper than just what is seen, women who, even if its just in that moment, are not afraid to live from their most confident place. In our study time last evening I had a bit a revelation...that often times I make my own plans and develop entire scenarios/experiences in my own head & completely miss what the Lord is doing or is trying to teach me. Looking back I think of all the things that I have missed -- how sad.
And I'm noticing in the past few days that God is clearly saying to me (the only clear thing I have right now) is to not be afraid. In my weekly memory verse, in my morning study, in the quiet wisdom from trusted friends.
Who knows what that stirring is or what it means. But what I do know is that I will not be afraid. I will trust & I will praise -- because there is nothing that the Lord is doing that will bring harm.
<3
"When I am afraid, I will put my trust in You. In God, whose word I praise, In God I have put my trust; I shall not be afraid. What can mere man do to me?" Psalm 56:3-4
Thursday, May 31, 2012
apparently...
so apparently falling off the face of the earth is kind of my thing... i've been totally MIA from here, pretty quiet in the "twitterverse" (please don't judge me for using that term...), and pretty non-existent from instagram. there have been countless times i've logged in, hoping to find some gem ready in my brain to share or to have some creative thing to display. alas i did not...and thus i disappeared.
and in all brutal honesty - i mostly haven't had anything super "worthy" of sharing. there are times that i wonder what the hell i'm even doing. where the hell i'm going. who the hell i'm even becoming....don't you just freakin' love your mid-20's?! talk about inconsistency! compound that with still trying to find my place in this whole football world - it's so much different than the last go around & it's terribly challenging to find my footing.
amidst all of this there has been one thing that has made its self known to me a number of times...and very clearly...
so in the midst of all the confusion, in the dark times of my day or night....i'm trying to remember and hold true to these words. there is a purpose, though it may not be clear right now. it may not be clear for some time. but regardless - i am not here on accident. and my circumstances are not an accident either. in time i'll understand - and for now all i need to know is this.
<3
and in all brutal honesty - i mostly haven't had anything super "worthy" of sharing. there are times that i wonder what the hell i'm even doing. where the hell i'm going. who the hell i'm even becoming....don't you just freakin' love your mid-20's?! talk about inconsistency! compound that with still trying to find my place in this whole football world - it's so much different than the last go around & it's terribly challenging to find my footing.
amidst all of this there has been one thing that has made its self known to me a number of times...and very clearly...
<3
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