Becoming an "adult," I have found, kind of sneaks up on you...or at least it has snuck up on me. There are certainly times and situations where I definitely still feel like the kid, the inexperienced one, the naiive one in the group, the childish one. And then there are times when I am somewhat shocked that I'm the mature one in the situation. Heck -- I have even made my bed every single day (weekends as the exception) for nearly 3 weeks! Crazy I know!
In fact, I'm not entirely sure how this whole adult-hood thing works or how it's supposed to end. Like, will there be a definitive moment that I'll be able to stop & say...ahh, I've made it! Logically I know that won't happen - but a girl can dream right?
Lately life has been a total mix of boring normal routine, and fun moments of dreaming of what could be. What would our lives be in these circumstances. And then moments of being totally thankful for exactly where we are in our life & for the people/circumstances that make up the details. Maybe that's the biggest hallmark of adult-hood....having the ability to stop, and be grateful & content in any setting.
How have you or are you coping friends??
Showing posts with label Random. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Random. Show all posts
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Saturday, January 19, 2013
Addicted or Just Flushing The System??
Don't worry -- this post won't and isn't as ominous as that title might imply. It's actually a statement Honey Isaac just made.
See, we're currently in San Diego for a good friend's wedding - and we're here for a long weekend. Initially we were going to just lay low in our hotel room, rest up, let Isaac get some quality snooze time to get better. But as soon as we woke up this morning, Isaac has been talking about all these different things we could do tomorrow with our full day of freedom.
And in walking back to our room we pass the standard hotel brochure bar -- with all the local and not so local attractions. Of course there's one in particular that naturally caught our eye. So now it's that struggle of being logical or giving in to spontaneity and just going.
Well given our last week's sponaneity - Isaac posed the question of whether we're getting all this spontaneity out of our system before we seriously start talking/trying for kids, or are we becoming addicted to the spontaneity & risking more than is necessary? I mean we don't have so many responsibilities that we're putting off, we don't have children at home that would be in want of necessities, our house & dog are currently already being taken care of. The question definitely made me stop to ponder -- selfishly I'd like to say we're just getting it out of our system (and let's just be honest, in that my type A personality doesn't do spontaneity very often or well, so it's kind of fun for me), but when I really look at it, the decision doesn't seem that "smart."
So what should we do? How do you balance this kind of struggle? Generally speaking, Honey Isaac & I are pretty freaking financially responsible & very rarely do things like this without having it completed backed up from the get go. So a part of me immaturely wants to say "Screw it! Let's go!" But I also don't want to put undue pressure/stress on him or our little family of 2. Throw your suggestions my way friends!!
Happy Saturday! We're off to our buddy's wedding today -- Samoan style! :)
See, we're currently in San Diego for a good friend's wedding - and we're here for a long weekend. Initially we were going to just lay low in our hotel room, rest up, let Isaac get some quality snooze time to get better. But as soon as we woke up this morning, Isaac has been talking about all these different things we could do tomorrow with our full day of freedom.
And in walking back to our room we pass the standard hotel brochure bar -- with all the local and not so local attractions. Of course there's one in particular that naturally caught our eye. So now it's that struggle of being logical or giving in to spontaneity and just going.
Well given our last week's sponaneity - Isaac posed the question of whether we're getting all this spontaneity out of our system before we seriously start talking/trying for kids, or are we becoming addicted to the spontaneity & risking more than is necessary? I mean we don't have so many responsibilities that we're putting off, we don't have children at home that would be in want of necessities, our house & dog are currently already being taken care of. The question definitely made me stop to ponder -- selfishly I'd like to say we're just getting it out of our system (and let's just be honest, in that my type A personality doesn't do spontaneity very often or well, so it's kind of fun for me), but when I really look at it, the decision doesn't seem that "smart."
So what should we do? How do you balance this kind of struggle? Generally speaking, Honey Isaac & I are pretty freaking financially responsible & very rarely do things like this without having it completed backed up from the get go. So a part of me immaturely wants to say "Screw it! Let's go!" But I also don't want to put undue pressure/stress on him or our little family of 2. Throw your suggestions my way friends!!
Happy Saturday! We're off to our buddy's wedding today -- Samoan style! :)
Monday, January 14, 2013
Jet Set
Welp this past weekend we took a little jet set trip to Hawaii...yup for a 24hour period. Crazy I know. But sometimes it's necessary to do those crazy things for your family.
Honey Isaac's family was having a small reunion, and his dad called like every day to see if we were free to come. So we made a decision to throw caution....and frankly, logic....to the wind and woke up at the butt crack of dawn on Saturday and made our way to the airport to take a 6 hour flight to Honolulu. Despite a salty gate agent (flying standby is a delicate endeavor let me tell you) we both made the flight no problem. Man I'll tell ya -- it was rough goings as the night got late, that 2 hour time difference was brutal. But all in all, it was awesome - it was nutty - it was good for Honey Isaac's soul. During 2012, we took a break from traveling to Hawaii...so I could tell how quickly it rejuvenated him. Good food, family, spending time with our nieces & one of our nephews, visiting his grandma, and mostly just soaking in good weather (it was a balmy 24 degrees when we left Portland).
It was so funny how the entire drive to the airport, Isaac kept saying "This is so stupid," "I can't believe we're doing this," "I can't believe we're only going for 1 day" etc. My response...SO WHAT?! We didn't have plans. We don't have kids to worry about. We were responsible and asked my little brother to watch our dog. And we had the money to pay for our tickets and snacks with no problem. It's totally necessary to do crazy things every once in a while. To do things that make no sense. To keep things interesting! Plus it's fun & important for me to show Isaac how much I love him and be flexible for things like this and spur of the moment trips to Denver to see his brother & his family.
So our little travel loving butts are headed off yet again this weekend for a wedding in San Diego. I seriously can not wait for this trip -- it'll be my very first Samoan wedding! So fun! Hopefully I'll have lots of fun stories to share when we get back!
Honey Isaac's family was having a small reunion, and his dad called like every day to see if we were free to come. So we made a decision to throw caution....and frankly, logic....to the wind and woke up at the butt crack of dawn on Saturday and made our way to the airport to take a 6 hour flight to Honolulu. Despite a salty gate agent (flying standby is a delicate endeavor let me tell you) we both made the flight no problem. Man I'll tell ya -- it was rough goings as the night got late, that 2 hour time difference was brutal. But all in all, it was awesome - it was nutty - it was good for Honey Isaac's soul. During 2012, we took a break from traveling to Hawaii...so I could tell how quickly it rejuvenated him. Good food, family, spending time with our nieces & one of our nephews, visiting his grandma, and mostly just soaking in good weather (it was a balmy 24 degrees when we left Portland).
It was so funny how the entire drive to the airport, Isaac kept saying "This is so stupid," "I can't believe we're doing this," "I can't believe we're only going for 1 day" etc. My response...SO WHAT?! We didn't have plans. We don't have kids to worry about. We were responsible and asked my little brother to watch our dog. And we had the money to pay for our tickets and snacks with no problem. It's totally necessary to do crazy things every once in a while. To do things that make no sense. To keep things interesting! Plus it's fun & important for me to show Isaac how much I love him and be flexible for things like this and spur of the moment trips to Denver to see his brother & his family.
So our little travel loving butts are headed off yet again this weekend for a wedding in San Diego. I seriously can not wait for this trip -- it'll be my very first Samoan wedding! So fun! Hopefully I'll have lots of fun stories to share when we get back!
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!
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!
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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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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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
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
Monday, May 21, 2012
Patience
I love getting the opportunity to spend time at one of my most favorite spots in the world. Washington Family Ranch (previously Wildhorse Canyon) has been, and hopefully always will be, one of the few places I have ever felt completely & totally comfortable. It's a place of peace & clarity. And I am guaranteed each time I go to see someone who I love, respect, and admire.
This past weekend was the 4th annual Women's Weekend - and my first time going. What a joyful, fulfilling time spent with family, new & old friends, and many YL friends also. BUt mostly what I especially love about being there is that I almost always have a moment (or two) of extreme clarity/direction to take back home with me.
Some may not know, but when I was graduating college I nearly went on full time Young Life staff. For a variety of reasons I decided against it -- but this weekend, in particular, was a time when I really caught myself wondering had I made the right choice. Young Life was something I thought I'd always be good at it, I could have done a really good job, and I simply have a deep love for the program and its mission. So during our all camp quiet (30 whole minutes of solitude) I prayed. I prayed & asked the Lord to give me a vision of what I'm supposed to be doing, where I'm supposed to be going. And then I sat....and waited... The moment I sat back up in preparation to head back to the club room, it was like a wave of came over me and the only clear spot was the word "patience." Now I'm not entirely sure what that means right now. Or what that even looks like. But it was so clear, that even the next morning I found myself trying to keep hashing it out, to make sense of it.
Any one who knows me, knows I'm not exactly what you would call a patient person. Heck, I un-wrap & re-wrap my birthday presents.... But I'm willing to submit to this and wait to see what is on the horizon.
<3
This past weekend was the 4th annual Women's Weekend - and my first time going. What a joyful, fulfilling time spent with family, new & old friends, and many YL friends also. BUt mostly what I especially love about being there is that I almost always have a moment (or two) of extreme clarity/direction to take back home with me.
Some may not know, but when I was graduating college I nearly went on full time Young Life staff. For a variety of reasons I decided against it -- but this weekend, in particular, was a time when I really caught myself wondering had I made the right choice. Young Life was something I thought I'd always be good at it, I could have done a really good job, and I simply have a deep love for the program and its mission. So during our all camp quiet (30 whole minutes of solitude) I prayed. I prayed & asked the Lord to give me a vision of what I'm supposed to be doing, where I'm supposed to be going. And then I sat....and waited... The moment I sat back up in preparation to head back to the club room, it was like a wave of came over me and the only clear spot was the word "patience." Now I'm not entirely sure what that means right now. Or what that even looks like. But it was so clear, that even the next morning I found myself trying to keep hashing it out, to make sense of it.
Any one who knows me, knows I'm not exactly what you would call a patient person. Heck, I un-wrap & re-wrap my birthday presents.... But I'm willing to submit to this and wait to see what is on the horizon.
<3
Tuesday, May 8, 2012
random
This past weekend was full of good friends, good conversation, and rest.
Talk about wonderful weekend!
Random thought -- I finally drug my butt back to the gym last night. Let's just say I've been on a long hiatus from the gym. And I've found that I go in swings, crazy intense amount of time spent at the gym to virtually none. So I'm trying to find a good balance of my time and going to the gym. Finding things that I enjoy and challenge me -- but don't cause me to loathe going. Last night's event: yoga. Man, I haven't done yoga in FOREVER & I definitely wish I hadn't taken such a long break. My legs were SHAKING nearly the entire class...and is it ever hard to hold 3 legged dog when your leg is shaking like a leaf! All in all, I'm glad I went. I felt great after wards, felt calm & collected. Woke up this morning feeling rested.
Tonight's agenda: walking with my running buddies. I'm slowly finding things that are life giving rather than life taking/exhausting. The goal is to be happy, healthy, & confident. Definitely not looking to be a body builder or compete. I want to simply be happy in my own skin & most importantly be thankful that I have a working body to be able to do things!
But the biggest highlight of our weekend......
Meet our new little nephew Kapono!! Such a sweet heart already. Isaac's younger brother & his wife made their way in to the hospital early on Friday, and baby Kapono made his appearance late Friday night. Isaac has lovingly nicknamed the kiddo "Jar Jar" in honor of Star Wars Appreciation Day (think "May the 4th/force be with you!"). Not sure my sister-in-law is totally on board with that, nor am I....but the brothers seem to think it's hilarious. We've already got a trip in the works in mid-June to meet the little guy. But we can already tell he's gonna be a heart breaker.
This month is gonna be nutty -- so hopefully I can stay on top of my blogging, I've been slacking as of late...but it's worth it, so I'll do my best! :)
<3
Talk about wonderful weekend!
Random thought -- I finally drug my butt back to the gym last night. Let's just say I've been on a long hiatus from the gym. And I've found that I go in swings, crazy intense amount of time spent at the gym to virtually none. So I'm trying to find a good balance of my time and going to the gym. Finding things that I enjoy and challenge me -- but don't cause me to loathe going. Last night's event: yoga. Man, I haven't done yoga in FOREVER & I definitely wish I hadn't taken such a long break. My legs were SHAKING nearly the entire class...and is it ever hard to hold 3 legged dog when your leg is shaking like a leaf! All in all, I'm glad I went. I felt great after wards, felt calm & collected. Woke up this morning feeling rested.
Tonight's agenda: walking with my running buddies. I'm slowly finding things that are life giving rather than life taking/exhausting. The goal is to be happy, healthy, & confident. Definitely not looking to be a body builder or compete. I want to simply be happy in my own skin & most importantly be thankful that I have a working body to be able to do things!
But the biggest highlight of our weekend......
This month is gonna be nutty -- so hopefully I can stay on top of my blogging, I've been slacking as of late...but it's worth it, so I'll do my best! :)
<3
Friday, April 27, 2012
I have found the Holy Grail....
Not to burst any one's Biblical bubble -- but I don't mean the actual Holy Grail. But my very own personal hair Holy Grail.
You are looking at the perfect specimen of a hair dumb girl. My entire life has been spent finding 2-3 ways of doing my hair & sticking with it. My sisters are so much older than me that we were always in two very different stages of life - so I never really had any girl/sister lessons on how to do different things with your hair. You're also looking at a girl who doesn't even really know how to curl her own hair well...shocking, I know. Thankfully my hair doesn't hold curl that well any way, so it's not too catastrophic.
And to add insult to injury - one of my older cousins is a super fabulous stylist. We're talking super wonderful/talented, does the hair for the Portland Trailblazer's wives, many of the TV anchors, politicians, etc. So I finally went up to see her for my cut & color -- mind you, the last time I think she did my hair was when I was about 6 years old & she had recently graduated from Vidal Sassoon in the early 90's. Let's just say there was a perm & tears involved (but this isn't the reason why I haven't been back to her).
I love my cousin - she, like I mentioned, is super fabulous. To say I was nervous to see her would be a gross under statement. And as I expected, she was none too happy with my routine. She quickly suggested I ween myself off my straightener...remember, I find one technique that works & stick with it...and teach myself to blow dry my hair straight with the use of useful tools.
Ok...I've gotten a bit off topic. So let's get to the point. I have spent the last week trying to get to know my new hair (not too different of a cut I've had previously but more on how I handle my hair). In an attempt to give my hair a break, and start to let it repair a bit I have found a few products that I'm already deeply in love with.
Insert fashion/beauty/lifestyle inspiration ala Sydney at the daybook & more specifically THIS post that led me to one of the best things I've ever encountered...i.e. my "Holy Grail" reference.
Ladies & Gents - allow me to introduce you to Suave Keratin Infusion Dry Shampoo (a chorus of angels are singing....can you hear them?!). I've tried a number of dry shampoo options; all of which ultimately left my hair flat, greasy, and not "clean" feeling. This baby however -- amazing! Let's just say it smells AWESOME, gave me great volume, and has yet to leave any kind of nasty, greasy residue - even at days end!
Hopefully having this as an option will further allow me to let my hair breathe from the flat iron without fear of having nasty "dirty" hair that really looks dirty. Double bonus of this glory product -- PRICE! I think it was like $2.48 at my local Target. Hellllllo greatness!
And a follow up product also by the geniuses over at Suave:
This lightweight hair spray. For someone who doesn't/can't do much with a style most hairsprays are too heavy for me. So this little gem has me doing a little happy dance. It's an "ultra fine mist" and boy is it ever! Double bonus: smells awesome! Triple bonus: ALSO only about $2.50!
I'm starting to get the groove of round brush/blow drying my hair (shocking, I know....) and these little tools are helping the cause.
Random post from me I know -- but I just had to share! Happy Hair to you!
<3
You are looking at the perfect specimen of a hair dumb girl. My entire life has been spent finding 2-3 ways of doing my hair & sticking with it. My sisters are so much older than me that we were always in two very different stages of life - so I never really had any girl/sister lessons on how to do different things with your hair. You're also looking at a girl who doesn't even really know how to curl her own hair well...shocking, I know. Thankfully my hair doesn't hold curl that well any way, so it's not too catastrophic.
And to add insult to injury - one of my older cousins is a super fabulous stylist. We're talking super wonderful/talented, does the hair for the Portland Trailblazer's wives, many of the TV anchors, politicians, etc. So I finally went up to see her for my cut & color -- mind you, the last time I think she did my hair was when I was about 6 years old & she had recently graduated from Vidal Sassoon in the early 90's. Let's just say there was a perm & tears involved (but this isn't the reason why I haven't been back to her).
I love my cousin - she, like I mentioned, is super fabulous. To say I was nervous to see her would be a gross under statement. And as I expected, she was none too happy with my routine. She quickly suggested I ween myself off my straightener...remember, I find one technique that works & stick with it...and teach myself to blow dry my hair straight with the use of useful tools.
Ok...I've gotten a bit off topic. So let's get to the point. I have spent the last week trying to get to know my new hair (not too different of a cut I've had previously but more on how I handle my hair). In an attempt to give my hair a break, and start to let it repair a bit I have found a few products that I'm already deeply in love with.
Insert fashion/beauty/lifestyle inspiration ala Sydney at the daybook & more specifically THIS post that led me to one of the best things I've ever encountered...i.e. my "Holy Grail" reference.
Hopefully having this as an option will further allow me to let my hair breathe from the flat iron without fear of having nasty "dirty" hair that really looks dirty. Double bonus of this glory product -- PRICE! I think it was like $2.48 at my local Target. Hellllllo greatness!
And a follow up product also by the geniuses over at Suave:
I'm starting to get the groove of round brush/blow drying my hair (shocking, I know....) and these little tools are helping the cause.
Random post from me I know -- but I just had to share! Happy Hair to you!
<3
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Small Changes
Ever had one of those days where you just think to yourself...."this right here, this what I'm doing, just isn't working." From the moment I woke up that's what was running thru my head -- in some form or fashion.
My daily devotional was focused on finding & living in your true identity, found in Christ. On my drive to work, a dear friend called & I am so thankful for the blessing of true, honest friendship. And my work day began with a true, much needed & over due mom/daughter hug.
Let's just say I tried to be aware of myself, my choices, & what not.... But mostly what I tried to do was be aware that I don't want to fight against where I am presently just to fight. Realizing how much energy is spent fighting or being "right."
There are better, more worthy things to be focusing on & putting my energy towards.
<3
My daily devotional was focused on finding & living in your true identity, found in Christ. On my drive to work, a dear friend called & I am so thankful for the blessing of true, honest friendship. And my work day began with a true, much needed & over due mom/daughter hug.
Let's just say I tried to be aware of myself, my choices, & what not.... But mostly what I tried to do was be aware that I don't want to fight against where I am presently just to fight. Realizing how much energy is spent fighting or being "right."
There are better, more worthy things to be focusing on & putting my energy towards.
<3
Tuesday, March 20, 2012
Vacation on the Brain
Wow I have been totally MIA -- haven't been reading, haven't been blogging, barely staying on top of my instagram feed. The only things I have been able to do are work, sleep, work, laundry, work, and a very few work outs. In fact I've been trying to get creative about how I put together some short, effective work outs. I'm finding that I get bored easily...so it's becoming my challenge.
So with that....I apologize for the radio silence. Hopefully while we're on vacation next week I can get some time to really sit down and do some real life reflection. But let me just tell you -- I have been needing this vacation in the worst kind of way. This month at work has been exhausting and exhilarating all at the same time. There have been moments of joy at beating a collections company. But boy have there been moments(especially in the past few days) where it takes all I have within me to keep it together & stay focused. Today for example it was non stop work from 8am til 6pm with about a 20min lunch that was more completing tasks for my mom or Isaac. Which is totally fine to a degree, because I certainly know that everything has to be in line before we leave. Man it takes it out of you though! I'm ready for quiet, rest, laughter, good food and yes....even a few work outs!
<3
So with that....I apologize for the radio silence. Hopefully while we're on vacation next week I can get some time to really sit down and do some real life reflection. But let me just tell you -- I have been needing this vacation in the worst kind of way. This month at work has been exhausting and exhilarating all at the same time. There have been moments of joy at beating a collections company. But boy have there been moments(especially in the past few days) where it takes all I have within me to keep it together & stay focused. Today for example it was non stop work from 8am til 6pm with about a 20min lunch that was more completing tasks for my mom or Isaac. Which is totally fine to a degree, because I certainly know that everything has to be in line before we leave. Man it takes it out of you though! I'm ready for quiet, rest, laughter, good food and yes....even a few work outs!
<3
Friday, March 9, 2012
Eleven??
Welp -- it's been a few days since I last got on here to blog. But as luck would have it, right when I feel as though I have nothing interesting to say, the wonderful Mary Gene tagged me in this post & now I have something to write! Huzzah for all! Here we go....
The Rules:
1. Post these rules
2. Post a photo of yourself & 11 random facts about you.
3. Answer the questions given to you in the tagger's post.
4. Create 11 new questions & tag people to answer them.
5. Go to their blog/twitter & let them know they've been tagged!
Husband + me at my best friend's wedding...
as you can see I married a real goof ball :)
11 Random Facts About Me:
1. I am the 4th generation of "Anna" in my mom's family & I'm trying to convince my little brother to name his first daughter after me to keep it going.
2. I folded 1,001 paper cranes before Isaac & I got married....it took me about 4 months.
3. Both my parents were in the Marine Corps...& no I never wanted to go in to the military.
4. I am a reality TV junkie
5. I never liked football before I married my husband -- it's grown on me now.
6. Even the thought of mayonnaise and/or mustard on a sandwich (or anything) makes me gag.
7. I have an allergy to sulfites -- drinking red wine makes me get REAL red & REAL hot REAL quick...it's annoying
8. My grandma gave two children up for adoption when they were born, and both children found & reconnected with our family...it's always crazy to see my "new" cousins & see so many similar family features.
9. My Grandma Jewell's 2nd cousin is Beverly Cleary -- they grew up together in Yamhill.
10. I really want to learn the native Hawaiian language.
11. I'm great at starting books....not so great at finishing them.
Questions (I'm gonna do the same ones MG did...)
1. Best childhood memory? Summers spent at Eagle Crest with my family...it's the best place around here to just relax and be a kid!
2. Your favorite/go to movie. The one you could watch a million times? Probably When Harry Met Sally, The Glenn Miller Story, or South Pacific.
3. If you were driving right now, what music/song would you be singing along to? Definitely anything on the oldies rock station 92.3...it's my sunny weather music!
4. .......I'm gonna skip this question MG...I don't have a camera...whoops!
5. Favorite saying or inspirational quote? "Hurt people hurt people" "Beauty fades...dumb is forever."
6. Who do you look up to the most? Cliche as it may be...probably my parents more than anyone. Both had incredibly challenging childhoods, for different reasons, but both decided not to let that hold them back. They went on to live excellent lives and excel at everything they did.
7. Favorite TV show? Biggest Loser, House Hunters, Big Brother, NCIS, Law & Order...and a few others.... Isaac says I'm a "reality TV" junkie...and I've confessed to it as well.
8. Which store would you choose to max your credit card out at? If I allowed myself to do such a thing it'd probably be at like JCrew or Banana Republic or something. Of Z Gallerie and totally make over my entire casa.
9. Coffee or tea? COFFEE NO QUESTION!
10. If you could go anywhere in the world, with anyone in the world....where & who? Bali, Tahiti, OR Norway (crazy I know)....and obviously Isaac & my family.
11. The last sweet/funny/crazy/cute thing your kiddon/grand-babe said or did? Well, considering I don't have either of those...I'll share what my niece recently told me. She's 13, almost 14 & will be a freshman next year. Recently accepted the Lord, and Wednesday shared with me that she had a revelation that she shouldn't be judging friends of her friends, because God loves them as much as He loves her. And she is in no position to judge like that given that she needs Jesus as much as everyone else. Uhh....WOW insightful 13yr old. Love that kid.
11 NEW Questions for you!
1. Least favorite subject in high school
2. Who was your childhood hero?
3. What major US city could you see yourself living in?
4. Biggest fear?
5. If you could go back to college, what would you study?
6. Have you ever wanted to learn another language? Which one?
7. Coca-Cola or Pepsi?
8. What is your favorite way to relax?
9. Favorite current obsession?
10. Who is your favorite sporting team?
11. How would you spend $10million?
Who I'm Tagging:
1. Natalie Adventures As Mrs. Janey
2. Mandee [the bear naked truth]
3. Leesh The Blarkness Chronicles
4. Monica homemade by monica
5. Kayla Kayla Danelle
I realize this is a silly posting....but honestly, the only other things running thru my brain are all football related. And well, I'm stopping myself from posting anything else about football right now. Yeesh it sure can take over quickly!
<3
Monday, February 20, 2012
Here's the deal...
Sometimes there are just days when nothing seems to go right, feel right, or be right. Today was that day. Everything felt off. And so the only remedy for this type of day is to come straight home, put on the most comfortable clothing, eat a delicious dinner, drink an adult beverage (if you so choose), and watch some trashy TV.
Yup that's right, trashy TV is a must on days like these. What are you go to trashy TV shows?? Some of mine include the following: Basketball Wives, Real Housewives of...., The Bachelor, Teen Mom, Jerseylicious, Diners/Driveins/Dives, etc. I will say I DEFINITELY steer clear of shows like Hoarders, Intervention & the like. Those types of shows give me such an anxiety...yeesh.
Friends I hope to have some more news to share on the home front, but the last few weeks our attention & focus have been on one topic -- one I can't share quite yet in its entirety. But I'm hoping to roll it all out here soon. But if you could, please keep sending those good thoughts our way!
Here's to being thankful tomorrow is a new day!
<3
Yup that's right, trashy TV is a must on days like these. What are you go to trashy TV shows?? Some of mine include the following: Basketball Wives, Real Housewives of...., The Bachelor, Teen Mom, Jerseylicious, Diners/Driveins/Dives, etc. I will say I DEFINITELY steer clear of shows like Hoarders, Intervention & the like. Those types of shows give me such an anxiety...yeesh.
Friends I hope to have some more news to share on the home front, but the last few weeks our attention & focus have been on one topic -- one I can't share quite yet in its entirety. But I'm hoping to roll it all out here soon. But if you could, please keep sending those good thoughts our way!
Here's to being thankful tomorrow is a new day!
<3
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