I'm feeling a bit like Old Mother Hubbard, whose cupboards were bare... But believe me, that's a good thing.
In my zeal to Purge my house of all that is evil and past its "sell by" date, Carter and I set out on a mission to go through the kitchen cupboards and discard anything that had expired or looked like it should have.
Turns out, we had a lot of past-due dining opportunities up there. There was even one can without a label. No, I was not brave enough or curious enough about its contents to open it. We also had a challenge with a leaking can of cranberries on the top shelf (when the heck did I buy cranberries?!). I actually had to remove the shelf and soak it in hot water to get the can off!
I'm embarrassed to say how long some of those cans and boxes had been there. Apparently, we get new food and just push the existing cans toward the back until there's no more room to push -- and there's no chance they'll see the light of day (until someone comes along once every 5 years on a pre-spring cleaning binge).
When all was said and done, Carter and I filled up a very big garbage bag. Then we ran into a little problem. We couldn't move it. Couldn't lift it. Couldn't budge it. So we divided up the goods into two bags. Guess what? Still super heavy. I did manage to get them out in the garage. All I could think was what a waste. Oh those poor starving children in the world!
Yesterday, in the frigid windchills, I literally dragged those bags out to the curb. I was wearing Jim's boots and heavy winter coat and had a blaze orange ski mask on. Sort of looked like I was ready to rob a bank during deer season or was up to some other mischief. With my laborious efforts, to the passerby I must have looked like I was dragging a dead body -- or two. (Not that I would know how heavy one felt in a garbage bag.)
Later in the day, when I went to make something for supper, that's when I noticed: "We have no food!" Alas, Old Mother Hubbard's cupboards were bare. Good thing we still have some good stuff in the freezer. (Until next week, that is!)
Thursday, January 31, 2008
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Chicken Little
In the childhood story of Chicken Little, he thinks the sky is falling and tells everyone the sky is falling, but no one believes him. Now we actually have something falling out of the sky and no one is really telling us anything.
In one of those 15-second news spots, I heard this: Government officials say a large U.S. spy satellite has lost power and propulsion and could hit the Earth in late February or March. The satellite, which no longer can be controlled, could contain hazardous materials, and it is unknown where on the planet it might come down, they said. Did I mention it's the size of a bus? The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because the information is classified as secret, but they are keeping other nations apprised of the situation. Did I mention it's the size of a bus?
Last night I was freaking out when I was hearing the 45-mph winds howl in the blizzard. As I listened to the creaking and groaning of the house, I wondered what it would be like to have the roof ripped right off. Now I'm wondering what it would be like to have a bus land on my home, where thankfully we only have 3 occupants (just in case maximum seating capacity on the satellite is 71).
Funny (as in funny ironic and scary, not funny ha ha) how there's all this urgency about global warming, but not much to be said about this mammoth chunk of "Chicken Little's sky" falling. I'm feeling a bit like Chicken Little myself -- mainly the chicken part -- and I'm a little concerned ... not fretting or worrying yet. Just concerned and keeping my eye on the sky (and the news).
Hmm... I wonder if March will come in like a lion this year or lamb or perhaps a Greyhound...
In one of those 15-second news spots, I heard this: Government officials say a large U.S. spy satellite has lost power and propulsion and could hit the Earth in late February or March. The satellite, which no longer can be controlled, could contain hazardous materials, and it is unknown where on the planet it might come down, they said. Did I mention it's the size of a bus? The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because the information is classified as secret, but they are keeping other nations apprised of the situation. Did I mention it's the size of a bus?
Last night I was freaking out when I was hearing the 45-mph winds howl in the blizzard. As I listened to the creaking and groaning of the house, I wondered what it would be like to have the roof ripped right off. Now I'm wondering what it would be like to have a bus land on my home, where thankfully we only have 3 occupants (just in case maximum seating capacity on the satellite is 71).
Funny (as in funny ironic and scary, not funny ha ha) how there's all this urgency about global warming, but not much to be said about this mammoth chunk of "Chicken Little's sky" falling. I'm feeling a bit like Chicken Little myself -- mainly the chicken part -- and I'm a little concerned ... not fretting or worrying yet. Just concerned and keeping my eye on the sky (and the news).
Hmm... I wonder if March will come in like a lion this year or lamb or perhaps a Greyhound...
Tuesday, January 29, 2008
Bleepin' Blizzards!
For the record, the only kind of Blizzard I like is the Dairy Queen variety, something along the lines of Mint Oreo. I do not like the kind in the forecast tonight -- sleet, then snow, then plunging temps, then gusting winds making it feel like 40 below zero. If you are brave or stupid enough to go outside and check, that is.
As coincidence would have it, Jim took off for Florida (for work) at 4 a.m. today. He called a few minutes ago, sitting on his hotel balcony, telling us of his view of the ocean. That left me feeling warm all over. Right.
I've said before I am a chicken when it comes to winter driving. So yesterday, knowing I'd be on my own and in anticipation of the weather system, I brought home enough work so I could work from home today -- and tomorrow -- if necessary. Today I found it was necessary.
This working at home thing would be alright. I accomplished a lot without the usual interruptions. But I found myself taking 5-minute breaks every hour or so to throw in a load of laundry or check the Weather Channel. It was a good thing I had a productive morning and I was home. Schools closed at noon so I was here for Carter to come home to. (Not that we would have made him wait in a snowbank. His after-school sitter was willing to take him. It just felt good and motherly to be here when he got off the bus.)
I may have to be here for him tomorrow, too. The Winter Storm Warning (or Blizzard as the Weather Channel is calling it) is in effect until 8 a.m. Wednesday so I don't know if there'll be school.
I imagine about the time I decide to brave the outdoors and take the garbage out, Jim will be hitting his first green. Ah, but don't worry about him out there in the elements. I'm sure he packed his sunscreen or a hat!
As coincidence would have it, Jim took off for Florida (for work) at 4 a.m. today. He called a few minutes ago, sitting on his hotel balcony, telling us of his view of the ocean. That left me feeling warm all over. Right.
I've said before I am a chicken when it comes to winter driving. So yesterday, knowing I'd be on my own and in anticipation of the weather system, I brought home enough work so I could work from home today -- and tomorrow -- if necessary. Today I found it was necessary.
This working at home thing would be alright. I accomplished a lot without the usual interruptions. But I found myself taking 5-minute breaks every hour or so to throw in a load of laundry or check the Weather Channel. It was a good thing I had a productive morning and I was home. Schools closed at noon so I was here for Carter to come home to. (Not that we would have made him wait in a snowbank. His after-school sitter was willing to take him. It just felt good and motherly to be here when he got off the bus.)
I may have to be here for him tomorrow, too. The Winter Storm Warning (or Blizzard as the Weather Channel is calling it) is in effect until 8 a.m. Wednesday so I don't know if there'll be school.
I imagine about the time I decide to brave the outdoors and take the garbage out, Jim will be hitting his first green. Ah, but don't worry about him out there in the elements. I'm sure he packed his sunscreen or a hat!
Monday, January 28, 2008
Show Business
Jim and I caught some of the Screen Actors Guild Awards last night -- an obvious reminder of how far removed I am from the entertainment loop. One, I haven't seen any of the top-nominated movies and two, I didn't know who half the presenters were. But consider who I am -- I don't watch much television and 2 of the last 3 movies I saw in the theater involved talking bees and singing chipmunks!
Usually Jim and I will watch the movie award shows so we know what might be good to rent in the coming year. Otherwise, we sort of go by word of mouth. Someone says, "Hey, you should see this movie," so we give it a shot.
That's why we saw all three Bourne movies this past week and weekend: Bourne Identity, Bourne Supremacy and Bourne Ultimatum. I don't know that it is something I would have desired to see until our friends recommended it. They were pretty good -- and pretty intense in the sort of urgent way the TV show 24 is. (That's one of my favorite shows but has been striked out of existence this season.) We kind of liked seeing them all in a short time period so we could remember everything from the previous ones. Of course, by Saturday night, I was dreaming about it!
On our list of movies we want to see (in the theater for a change) is Bucket List. Jim and I hope to get to that next weekend. Some of the movies nominated last night looked interesting, too: No Country for Old Men and Into The Wild. However, since I am show business-challenged, I don't know if they are still in the theaters, out on DVD or somewhere any between.
Have you seen a good movie lately? Anything you'd recommend for a cold winter's night in Wisconsin?
Usually Jim and I will watch the movie award shows so we know what might be good to rent in the coming year. Otherwise, we sort of go by word of mouth. Someone says, "Hey, you should see this movie," so we give it a shot.
That's why we saw all three Bourne movies this past week and weekend: Bourne Identity, Bourne Supremacy and Bourne Ultimatum. I don't know that it is something I would have desired to see until our friends recommended it. They were pretty good -- and pretty intense in the sort of urgent way the TV show 24 is. (That's one of my favorite shows but has been striked out of existence this season.) We kind of liked seeing them all in a short time period so we could remember everything from the previous ones. Of course, by Saturday night, I was dreaming about it!
On our list of movies we want to see (in the theater for a change) is Bucket List. Jim and I hope to get to that next weekend. Some of the movies nominated last night looked interesting, too: No Country for Old Men and Into The Wild. However, since I am show business-challenged, I don't know if they are still in the theaters, out on DVD or somewhere any between.
Have you seen a good movie lately? Anything you'd recommend for a cold winter's night in Wisconsin?
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Purging POWER
I gave our paper shredder a good workout today as I worked on the P word in my 2008 POWER resolution. Early this month, I resolved this would be my year to find POWER through goals assigned to each letter.
P is for Purge. I will purge the excess stuff and unhealthy behaviors that are cluttering my life. Today I started with the filing cabinet.
Do you notice how there are so many shelves, storage bins and organizational tools on sale this time of year? It shouldn't surprise you that there are thousands of consumers like me with the same resolve each New Year to get organized.
I was reading recently that buying all that will not magically de-clutter your house. If you've got so much stuff it doesn't fit in your house, it's not a "house problem," it's an "occupant problem." In other words, it's not that the house isn't big enough to fit all your stuff. It's that you, the occupant, have too much stuff. Putting it in bins may keep it out of sight in neat containers but it's likely, if you don't throw anything out this year, you'll find yourself buying more pretty storage containers next January, too.
So I decided to hit the filing cabinet. Logically I can't clear off the two desks in the computer room until I have space to file and store. I was feeling pretty good about shredding files we really did not need a paper record of anymore. When I got to the bottom drawer, I hit the jackpot -- dozens of really old pay stubs to shred and a lot of old insurance books to ditch.
Back in the day before all information was available online, we used to get a ton of pamphlets plus those inch-thick booklets with lists of all the preferred providers in our insurance network. With both of us working for the same company, there was two of everything!
Those books filled a garbage bag too heavy for this bad-backed babe to lift. Now that's a good purge! Now I can start with desks tomorrow. I am starting to feel the POWER... are you?
P is for Purge. I will purge the excess stuff and unhealthy behaviors that are cluttering my life. Today I started with the filing cabinet.
Do you notice how there are so many shelves, storage bins and organizational tools on sale this time of year? It shouldn't surprise you that there are thousands of consumers like me with the same resolve each New Year to get organized.
I was reading recently that buying all that will not magically de-clutter your house. If you've got so much stuff it doesn't fit in your house, it's not a "house problem," it's an "occupant problem." In other words, it's not that the house isn't big enough to fit all your stuff. It's that you, the occupant, have too much stuff. Putting it in bins may keep it out of sight in neat containers but it's likely, if you don't throw anything out this year, you'll find yourself buying more pretty storage containers next January, too.
So I decided to hit the filing cabinet. Logically I can't clear off the two desks in the computer room until I have space to file and store. I was feeling pretty good about shredding files we really did not need a paper record of anymore. When I got to the bottom drawer, I hit the jackpot -- dozens of really old pay stubs to shred and a lot of old insurance books to ditch.
Back in the day before all information was available online, we used to get a ton of pamphlets plus those inch-thick booklets with lists of all the preferred providers in our insurance network. With both of us working for the same company, there was two of everything!
Those books filled a garbage bag too heavy for this bad-backed babe to lift. Now that's a good purge! Now I can start with desks tomorrow. I am starting to feel the POWER... are you?
Saturday, January 26, 2008
Card sharks
I've always enjoyed playing cards and learning new games. I'm not saying I'm any good at it. I just like to play -- and I can shuffle pretty good.
When I was growing up we played a lot of rummy, hearts, variations of poker (including the Tripoly game), UNO, a game we called "Peanuts" and one we called "500" (which was an "adult" game because it had trump!). I learned euchre in college and we played that a ton. Thanks to computers, I've learned a bit about Texas Hold 'em, but I'm not so obsessed with it that I'd watch it on TV or anything.
I also remember playing cribbage with my dad. I don't recall if I ever beat him. My hubby is a huge cribbage fan and I do recall clearly -- no, I have never beat him. In fact, 4 out of 5 times I get skunked! I just don't have a knack for it.
Carter likes playing Slap Jack and War with me. At least I found an opponent of equal skill!
Last fall, my sister Rayna introduced us to "3 to 13" -- a new card game she learned down in Texas. I taught it to Jim and Carter over the holidays and it has become our new family game. It's not really a hard game -- you just have to pay attention.
The rules (in case you want to play): You start by getting 3 cards and the 3's are wild (Jokers are always wild). To go out, you have to get 3 of a kind or a run of 3 (all in the same suit). When someone goes out, the other players get one more chance to go out. They add up whatever cards they are left holding (face value for 9 and under; 10 points for face cards; 15 points for aces). Then we move to 4's -- 4 cards, 4's are wild, you need 4 of a kind or run of 4, and so on. From 4 on up, after someone has gone out, we are allowed on our last turn to lay down 3 of a kind or a run of 3 just to get rid of some cards. It really gets interesting (and challenging) by the time we get to 13 (kings are wild) and you have to figure out how many runs you need to equal 13 (3 runs of 3 and 1 of 4).
This is one game we've all won at least once. Daddy usually keeps score. Instead of just writing D, M and C on the pad for Daddy, Mommy and Carter, he is always D but mine and Carter's always change to initials like BT (Big Talker) or SL (Stinkin' Lucky) or just plain T if we finished third (or "turd") the game before. We can't have a game in my family without some teasing going on!
I'm OK with that. It's fun to sit at the table a few times a week and do something besides eat or homework. Carter has found it's a good stall tactic, too. "I can't go to bed. We're not at 13 yet." That doesn't work. The other night it was bedtime so I quit at the queens (12's). We actually just finished up the next night with one hand (I won, by the way. But who's counting?)
When I was growing up we played a lot of rummy, hearts, variations of poker (including the Tripoly game), UNO, a game we called "Peanuts" and one we called "500" (which was an "adult" game because it had trump!). I learned euchre in college and we played that a ton. Thanks to computers, I've learned a bit about Texas Hold 'em, but I'm not so obsessed with it that I'd watch it on TV or anything.
I also remember playing cribbage with my dad. I don't recall if I ever beat him. My hubby is a huge cribbage fan and I do recall clearly -- no, I have never beat him. In fact, 4 out of 5 times I get skunked! I just don't have a knack for it.
Carter likes playing Slap Jack and War with me. At least I found an opponent of equal skill!
Last fall, my sister Rayna introduced us to "3 to 13" -- a new card game she learned down in Texas. I taught it to Jim and Carter over the holidays and it has become our new family game. It's not really a hard game -- you just have to pay attention.
The rules (in case you want to play): You start by getting 3 cards and the 3's are wild (Jokers are always wild). To go out, you have to get 3 of a kind or a run of 3 (all in the same suit). When someone goes out, the other players get one more chance to go out. They add up whatever cards they are left holding (face value for 9 and under; 10 points for face cards; 15 points for aces). Then we move to 4's -- 4 cards, 4's are wild, you need 4 of a kind or run of 4, and so on. From 4 on up, after someone has gone out, we are allowed on our last turn to lay down 3 of a kind or a run of 3 just to get rid of some cards. It really gets interesting (and challenging) by the time we get to 13 (kings are wild) and you have to figure out how many runs you need to equal 13 (3 runs of 3 and 1 of 4).
This is one game we've all won at least once. Daddy usually keeps score. Instead of just writing D, M and C on the pad for Daddy, Mommy and Carter, he is always D but mine and Carter's always change to initials like BT (Big Talker) or SL (Stinkin' Lucky) or just plain T if we finished third (or "turd") the game before. We can't have a game in my family without some teasing going on!
I'm OK with that. It's fun to sit at the table a few times a week and do something besides eat or homework. Carter has found it's a good stall tactic, too. "I can't go to bed. We're not at 13 yet." That doesn't work. The other night it was bedtime so I quit at the queens (12's). We actually just finished up the next night with one hand (I won, by the way. But who's counting?)
Thursday, January 24, 2008
This week in Carterland
I've said before that when I have a crazy and somewhat stressful week, I just need to recall a few Carterisms and it brings a smile to my face. Hopefully, it will do the same for you.
Just the facts: Carter was so excited to bring home his new library book, Every Minute on Earth (Fun Facts that Happen Every 60 Seconds). "Did you know a car traveling 60 mph travels one mile in one minute?" Yup, we know that one. "Did you know 10 adult elephants can produce one pound of poop per minute?" Now that's the kind of facts 4th-grade boys live for!
Snow White & the 7 Dwarfs: OK, here's some logic that's hard to argue with. Carter was acting all cranky (grumpy even) for much of the day so Daddy finally asks him, "If you were one of the 7 dwarfs, which one would you be?" Without missing a beat, Carter responds, "The third one." It makes so little sense, we both just had to laugh.
Mr. Popular: When I called my parents the other day, I had Carter dial so he could talk to Grandpa and Grandma first. After 20 minutes -- and after he'd talked to both of my parents and two of my sisters who were visiting them -- he hands me the phone. There was no one there. They'd already hung up. Now I know where I stand!
Humor me: Carter said if I needed a good joke to tell my friends at work this week, I should try this one: "Why did the math book go to the psychiatrist? ... Because he had problems."
Never a dull moment in Carterland!
Just the facts: Carter was so excited to bring home his new library book, Every Minute on Earth (Fun Facts that Happen Every 60 Seconds). "Did you know a car traveling 60 mph travels one mile in one minute?" Yup, we know that one. "Did you know 10 adult elephants can produce one pound of poop per minute?" Now that's the kind of facts 4th-grade boys live for!
Snow White & the 7 Dwarfs: OK, here's some logic that's hard to argue with. Carter was acting all cranky (grumpy even) for much of the day so Daddy finally asks him, "If you were one of the 7 dwarfs, which one would you be?" Without missing a beat, Carter responds, "The third one." It makes so little sense, we both just had to laugh.
Mr. Popular: When I called my parents the other day, I had Carter dial so he could talk to Grandpa and Grandma first. After 20 minutes -- and after he'd talked to both of my parents and two of my sisters who were visiting them -- he hands me the phone. There was no one there. They'd already hung up. Now I know where I stand!
Humor me: Carter said if I needed a good joke to tell my friends at work this week, I should try this one: "Why did the math book go to the psychiatrist? ... Because he had problems."
Never a dull moment in Carterland!
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Freedom of Choice
I don't recall getting many choices when I was a child. My parents made the rules. I got what they gave me and I had to live with it. I didn't have a choice. My how times change.
Last night, I was getting Carter's snack ready for school. I asked if he wanted the Cheez-It crackers or Chicken in a Biscuit ones for today. Hubby pipes in: "I don't recall getting choices like that when I was a kid." And he's right.
We weren't asked: "What do you want for supper?" We were told: "This is what we're having. Sit down and eat it. You can't leave the table until it's gone."
If Mom said she's going to the store, we wouldn't dare say, "I don't want to go. Can I stay home?" We knew we better get our butts in the car.
If Mom or Dad said we're going out to eat, we wouldn't have thought to ask: "Where are we going? I don't want to go there. Can we go here?" Instead, it was such a rare occasion to dine out, we raced to get in the car and go.
When did this generation of negotiators show up? Don't they know that Mom and Dad are still the bosses? Yet they are always working a deal, trying to negotiate something better for themselves.
I admit I am guilty in part of enabling that behavior when it comes to meal time. I'm not sure how it started, but in our house we now have two kinds of meals, according to Carter: Family Meal and Free Meal.
When we have a Family Meal, that means one of us adults actually puts some effort into a real, possibly even balanced, meal like chicken or spaghetti or pork chops. During the meals, we sit at the table together and even say grace. On the nights we lack time or don't feel like putting forth an effort, it's sort of a free-for-all. You get a free choice of what you want, whether that's leftovers or a bowl of cereal (that's often a Mommy and Carter choice since we're too good for leftovers).
The other night Carter wanted a Free Meal. I had plans to make something. That didn't go over well in his world. So we're sitting there eating our delicious food and Mr. Pouty isn't talking so neither are we. All you can hear is forks scraping plates and the occasional sip of milk. When the meal was almost over, I said, "isn't this great to have quality family time together?"
At least Carter cleaned his plate and didn't have to sit there until it was gone. ...Not that I would do that, of course. That's like cruel and unusual punishment, isn't it? I'd probably find some way to bribe him like "finish this and you can do that later." Hmm... Sounds almost like a negotiation. I was wondering how that all got started....
Last night, I was getting Carter's snack ready for school. I asked if he wanted the Cheez-It crackers or Chicken in a Biscuit ones for today. Hubby pipes in: "I don't recall getting choices like that when I was a kid." And he's right.
We weren't asked: "What do you want for supper?" We were told: "This is what we're having. Sit down and eat it. You can't leave the table until it's gone."
If Mom said she's going to the store, we wouldn't dare say, "I don't want to go. Can I stay home?" We knew we better get our butts in the car.
If Mom or Dad said we're going out to eat, we wouldn't have thought to ask: "Where are we going? I don't want to go there. Can we go here?" Instead, it was such a rare occasion to dine out, we raced to get in the car and go.
When did this generation of negotiators show up? Don't they know that Mom and Dad are still the bosses? Yet they are always working a deal, trying to negotiate something better for themselves.
I admit I am guilty in part of enabling that behavior when it comes to meal time. I'm not sure how it started, but in our house we now have two kinds of meals, according to Carter: Family Meal and Free Meal.
When we have a Family Meal, that means one of us adults actually puts some effort into a real, possibly even balanced, meal like chicken or spaghetti or pork chops. During the meals, we sit at the table together and even say grace. On the nights we lack time or don't feel like putting forth an effort, it's sort of a free-for-all. You get a free choice of what you want, whether that's leftovers or a bowl of cereal (that's often a Mommy and Carter choice since we're too good for leftovers).
The other night Carter wanted a Free Meal. I had plans to make something. That didn't go over well in his world. So we're sitting there eating our delicious food and Mr. Pouty isn't talking so neither are we. All you can hear is forks scraping plates and the occasional sip of milk. When the meal was almost over, I said, "isn't this great to have quality family time together?"
At least Carter cleaned his plate and didn't have to sit there until it was gone. ...Not that I would do that, of course. That's like cruel and unusual punishment, isn't it? I'd probably find some way to bribe him like "finish this and you can do that later." Hmm... Sounds almost like a negotiation. I was wondering how that all got started....
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Great Expectations
There's something to be said about people who lower their expectations just enough that disappointment rarely sets in. They probably don't have days like I did today.
By noon, I had labeled it as one of those "days from hell." Ever have one of those? I'm guessing most people have. It wasn't that things weren't going right, it was more an increase in stress level due to various factors (beyond my control, of course). In retrospect, I can sum it up in one word: Disappointment.
Right out of the gates, I was disappointed to learn my stepson Clay (the 9th-grader) was not going to school today. He wasn't home when Jim called him last night at 9 p.m., but sometime between then and this morning, he got a sore back. Yep, he missed another day of school -- that's the 28th of the school year for those of you scoring at home.
I had another personal matter eating at me and that, again, is something out of my control but frustrating and disappointing nonetheless.
There were a few work situations going on, too, that left me feeling a bit bummed. I only have what I would consider reasonable expectations of my employees. It is disappointing when I don't see an effort to meet those.
Isn't is frustrating when you can't magically transform someone into a person who cares? I had to take a break so I could calm down and get perspective -- plus it's weigh-in and measurement day for the Biggest Loser.
I realized on the ride over to the fitness center that my parents probably had the biggest disappointment of the day. They should be enjoying the warm climes of southern Texas tonight but instead my dad is home in northern Wisconsin, recovering from a bout of the stomach flu. Hopefully he'll be OK so they can catch their rescheduled flight on Friday!
Going into my weigh-in, I did not have high expectations. I knew I had an OK week so my hope was that none of the numbers would go up. Remember, I am taking a reasonable approach to this -- accepting slow, but sure progress. Needless to say I was thrilled when I stepped on the scale and saw I lost a pound! Plus, my body fat percentage went down, too! I was thrilled -- and it motivated me to keep going. I was smiling the rest of the day.
Yes, there's something to be said for people who lower their expectations just enough that disappointment rarely sets in. They miss out on some great highs when the tough ones are met!
By noon, I had labeled it as one of those "days from hell." Ever have one of those? I'm guessing most people have. It wasn't that things weren't going right, it was more an increase in stress level due to various factors (beyond my control, of course). In retrospect, I can sum it up in one word: Disappointment.
Right out of the gates, I was disappointed to learn my stepson Clay (the 9th-grader) was not going to school today. He wasn't home when Jim called him last night at 9 p.m., but sometime between then and this morning, he got a sore back. Yep, he missed another day of school -- that's the 28th of the school year for those of you scoring at home.
I had another personal matter eating at me and that, again, is something out of my control but frustrating and disappointing nonetheless.
There were a few work situations going on, too, that left me feeling a bit bummed. I only have what I would consider reasonable expectations of my employees. It is disappointing when I don't see an effort to meet those.
Isn't is frustrating when you can't magically transform someone into a person who cares? I had to take a break so I could calm down and get perspective -- plus it's weigh-in and measurement day for the Biggest Loser.
I realized on the ride over to the fitness center that my parents probably had the biggest disappointment of the day. They should be enjoying the warm climes of southern Texas tonight but instead my dad is home in northern Wisconsin, recovering from a bout of the stomach flu. Hopefully he'll be OK so they can catch their rescheduled flight on Friday!
Going into my weigh-in, I did not have high expectations. I knew I had an OK week so my hope was that none of the numbers would go up. Remember, I am taking a reasonable approach to this -- accepting slow, but sure progress. Needless to say I was thrilled when I stepped on the scale and saw I lost a pound! Plus, my body fat percentage went down, too! I was thrilled -- and it motivated me to keep going. I was smiling the rest of the day.
Yes, there's something to be said for people who lower their expectations just enough that disappointment rarely sets in. They miss out on some great highs when the tough ones are met!
Monday, January 21, 2008
Blue Monday (as in Giants blue?)
I'm pretty sure the Austin clan is in the minority today. After last night's Packer loss in overtime, we're likely among the few going to work and school today with smiles on our faces.
We're not gloating, just happy we don't have to move. After a week full of nauseating arrogance, Jim said, "You know, if the Packers win the Superbowl, we're gonna have to move." As in out of the state. As in it would be unbearable to put up with.
It's not that we dislike all Packers fans. Half of my family belongs to that group. By default, living in central Wisconsin, most of our friends are, too. In many cases, we seem to be a bit more accepting of their character defect than they are of ours (our unwavering Purple Pride). But we don't hold it against them.
I thanked my pastors yesterday for not wearing green and gold stoles. That would have been too much. I also pointed out that I performed quite the act of Christianity while in Green Bay on Saturday. "I was stopped at the light in front of Lambeau Field and I called my sister who is a big Packer fan. I rolled down the window and, on her behalf, yelled Go Pack Go from Renell!" I pointed out I didn't even think about putting a jinx or curse on the town until I was miles and miles away and it was too late.
In the end, I guess it didn't matter. It's not good to waste curses or even prayers, for that matter, on something as trivial as football anyway. As Carter occasionally has to point out to an overwrought Mommy and Daddy: It's just a game.
Yes, just a game. But I'm betting a few of us have a little bit of blue on today. What? It's a nice color ...
We're not gloating, just happy we don't have to move. After a week full of nauseating arrogance, Jim said, "You know, if the Packers win the Superbowl, we're gonna have to move." As in out of the state. As in it would be unbearable to put up with.
It's not that we dislike all Packers fans. Half of my family belongs to that group. By default, living in central Wisconsin, most of our friends are, too. In many cases, we seem to be a bit more accepting of their character defect than they are of ours (our unwavering Purple Pride). But we don't hold it against them.
I thanked my pastors yesterday for not wearing green and gold stoles. That would have been too much. I also pointed out that I performed quite the act of Christianity while in Green Bay on Saturday. "I was stopped at the light in front of Lambeau Field and I called my sister who is a big Packer fan. I rolled down the window and, on her behalf, yelled Go Pack Go from Renell!" I pointed out I didn't even think about putting a jinx or curse on the town until I was miles and miles away and it was too late.
In the end, I guess it didn't matter. It's not good to waste curses or even prayers, for that matter, on something as trivial as football anyway. As Carter occasionally has to point out to an overwrought Mommy and Daddy: It's just a game.
Yes, just a game. But I'm betting a few of us have a little bit of blue on today. What? It's a nice color ...
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Cold hand, warm heart
The weather gods are predicting temps could plunge as low as 20 degrees below zero tonight. No doubt we are in a deep freeze here in Wisconsin. But I can tell you nothing warms a heart on a cold day than spending time with a long-lost friend.
The lunch date between my college buddy Jules and me has been more than a year in the making. I'm not kidding.
It all started the evening of Dec. 22, 2006. Carter and I were making Christmas cookies when the phone rang. I checked the caller I.D. and saw a name I hadn't seen in years (about 12 actually). I let out a whoop and answered.
Turns out turning 40 instills some thoughts of reaching out to those we were once close to. Jules had also gotten in touch with a few of our mutual friends -- we were all RA's (resident assistants) together at UW-La Crosse. Throughout 2007 we'd e-mail and try to arrange a weekend the four of us could get together. We came pretty close in September, but it just didn't happen.
Jules is originally from Green Bay. I knew I had a meeting there today so earlier this week I let her know and said, hey, if you're in town visiting your parents or whatever, maybe we can get together! As luck would have it, she was going to a birthday party so she was going to be in town. We made plans to meet for lunch and I couldn't wait.
When I walked into the restaurant, my first thought was, wow, she hasn't changed a bit! She looked great! Then as we visited, caught up, shared family pictures, scrapbooks, etc., over our 90-minute lunch, I realized we'd both actually changed quite a bit. Mainly we've been through a lot of life's experiences that ultimately have changed us into content, strong women. How wonderful to see we are both at such a good place in life.
On the way out of the restaurant, we asked the hostess: "Could you please take our picture? We haven't seen each other in more than 12 years!" I can tell you we certainly won't wait that long again. I want this warm, fuzzy feeling to last!
The lunch date between my college buddy Jules and me has been more than a year in the making. I'm not kidding.
It all started the evening of Dec. 22, 2006. Carter and I were making Christmas cookies when the phone rang. I checked the caller I.D. and saw a name I hadn't seen in years (about 12 actually). I let out a whoop and answered.
Turns out turning 40 instills some thoughts of reaching out to those we were once close to. Jules had also gotten in touch with a few of our mutual friends -- we were all RA's (resident assistants) together at UW-La Crosse. Throughout 2007 we'd e-mail and try to arrange a weekend the four of us could get together. We came pretty close in September, but it just didn't happen.
Jules is originally from Green Bay. I knew I had a meeting there today so earlier this week I let her know and said, hey, if you're in town visiting your parents or whatever, maybe we can get together! As luck would have it, she was going to a birthday party so she was going to be in town. We made plans to meet for lunch and I couldn't wait.When I walked into the restaurant, my first thought was, wow, she hasn't changed a bit! She looked great! Then as we visited, caught up, shared family pictures, scrapbooks, etc., over our 90-minute lunch, I realized we'd both actually changed quite a bit. Mainly we've been through a lot of life's experiences that ultimately have changed us into content, strong women. How wonderful to see we are both at such a good place in life.
On the way out of the restaurant, we asked the hostess: "Could you please take our picture? We haven't seen each other in more than 12 years!" I can tell you we certainly won't wait that long again. I want this warm, fuzzy feeling to last!
Friday, January 18, 2008
T.G.I.F.F.
Thank god it's finally Friday! For some reason, I was under this false perception that yesterday was Friday. How disappointing at the end of the day when I realized I had to come back to work in the morning!
I think part of the reason for my confusion was that there were so many people missing or leaving early -- like a typical tumbleweed Friday -- but this time due to the weather. I told my employees not to be heroes about driving in dangerous conditions just for work. Probably good advice since by day's end, we got a dumping of snow -- somewhere between 3-6 inches.
So far this winter, all our major snows have coincidentally fallen on weekends and, therefore, haven't disturbed our work patterns. It usually doesn't impact us anyway. Jim is a brave and careful driver so we always make it to work. If I had to drive our commute, I probably would have played it safe and worked from home. That has happened before when he is gone on one of his winter work trips to somewhere that requires golf clubs. (Seriously, they do a lot of work there. I'm just jealous.) Despite my lead foot of summer, I am totally the chicken about winter driving.
Just the other day when I was the one driving home from work, two cars ahead of me braked quickly so I had to do the same. Turns out we were on an icy patch. The person (not saying lady or guy) in front of me was fish-tailing a bit and I was, too. Since we were going somewhat slow (in town) to begin with, I felt like I was in a slow-motion movie with my car gliding toward the rear of the car in front of me, my hands gripping and turning the wheel to avoid a spin out, and a school bus in the oncoming lane. Thankfully, I managed to stop short of the car in front of me. But I was pretty shaken up.
What did I learn from that?
1) Use caution: Really, really take it slow in the winter.
2) A person can say "Sh*t!" approximately 15 times in only 3 seconds.
Be careful out there.
I think part of the reason for my confusion was that there were so many people missing or leaving early -- like a typical tumbleweed Friday -- but this time due to the weather. I told my employees not to be heroes about driving in dangerous conditions just for work. Probably good advice since by day's end, we got a dumping of snow -- somewhere between 3-6 inches.
So far this winter, all our major snows have coincidentally fallen on weekends and, therefore, haven't disturbed our work patterns. It usually doesn't impact us anyway. Jim is a brave and careful driver so we always make it to work. If I had to drive our commute, I probably would have played it safe and worked from home. That has happened before when he is gone on one of his winter work trips to somewhere that requires golf clubs. (Seriously, they do a lot of work there. I'm just jealous.) Despite my lead foot of summer, I am totally the chicken about winter driving.
Just the other day when I was the one driving home from work, two cars ahead of me braked quickly so I had to do the same. Turns out we were on an icy patch. The person (not saying lady or guy) in front of me was fish-tailing a bit and I was, too. Since we were going somewhat slow (in town) to begin with, I felt like I was in a slow-motion movie with my car gliding toward the rear of the car in front of me, my hands gripping and turning the wheel to avoid a spin out, and a school bus in the oncoming lane. Thankfully, I managed to stop short of the car in front of me. But I was pretty shaken up.
What did I learn from that?
1) Use caution: Really, really take it slow in the winter.
2) A person can say "Sh*t!" approximately 15 times in only 3 seconds.
Be careful out there.
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Lordy, lordy, look who's...
I had to do something this week I have dreaded for a long time. I had to buy my childhood best friend a 40th birthday card.
You know what that means ... The "I'm 40" snowball has started rolling down hill, picking up speed and picking up classmates along the way and heading straight for me! I wonder if it will melt by June... Fat chance.
Thanks for getting that started, Julie! Seriously, it's a privilege to send birthday wishes to someone I celebrated the other milestone birthdays with: 13 (We're teens!); 16 (Let's drive!); 18 (Oh boy, here comes college!); 21 (We can legally drink the beer we've been consuming in college!); and 30 (which seemed old until today).
The first time I met Julie I was 8 years old. All the third-graders in the Luck School District were taking a field trip to the Shrine Circus. This meant us kids out in the country elementary school (Oak Hill) got to go with the town kids and the East Luck school third-graders. Julie recalls seeing my twin sister and me sitting on the bus together. I don't recall meeting Julie that day, but for some reason remember buying a laser-gun shaped flashlight at the circus.
Two years later, when a school fire prompted a much-needed expansion of the main school in town, the "country schools" closed and all the students were in one building. That was when I really met her, our friendship began and, I'm blessed to say, has not faded in 3 decades. (Oh gosh. Now we do sound old!)
Well somebody had to go first -- and I'm glad it wasn't me. (Except she'll be laughing at me in 10 years when she can get the AARP discounts before me!) I'm sure in 6 months, Julie will have much wisdom to impart to us young whipper-snappers.
In the meantime, Julie, a sincere happy birthday! May you receive as many wonderful blessings as your friendship has brought to me!
You know what that means ... The "I'm 40" snowball has started rolling down hill, picking up speed and picking up classmates along the way and heading straight for me! I wonder if it will melt by June... Fat chance.
Thanks for getting that started, Julie! Seriously, it's a privilege to send birthday wishes to someone I celebrated the other milestone birthdays with: 13 (We're teens!); 16 (Let's drive!); 18 (Oh boy, here comes college!); 21 (We can legally drink the beer we've been consuming in college!); and 30 (which seemed old until today).
The first time I met Julie I was 8 years old. All the third-graders in the Luck School District were taking a field trip to the Shrine Circus. This meant us kids out in the country elementary school (Oak Hill) got to go with the town kids and the East Luck school third-graders. Julie recalls seeing my twin sister and me sitting on the bus together. I don't recall meeting Julie that day, but for some reason remember buying a laser-gun shaped flashlight at the circus.
Two years later, when a school fire prompted a much-needed expansion of the main school in town, the "country schools" closed and all the students were in one building. That was when I really met her, our friendship began and, I'm blessed to say, has not faded in 3 decades. (Oh gosh. Now we do sound old!)
Well somebody had to go first -- and I'm glad it wasn't me. (Except she'll be laughing at me in 10 years when she can get the AARP discounts before me!) I'm sure in 6 months, Julie will have much wisdom to impart to us young whipper-snappers.
In the meantime, Julie, a sincere happy birthday! May you receive as many wonderful blessings as your friendship has brought to me!
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Biggest Loser :: Take 1
A year ago around this time, 3 friends and I embarked on a fitness journey when we joined the Biggest Loser competition at the health club in Iola. The problem with our journey is that we took so many detours -- eating what we wanted, blowing off exercise -- that we came to a dead end. Needless to say, we pretty much finished in last place.
Now it's that time of year again. I've decided I am going to give this another try. The problem is that I lost my team. One teammate is pregnant and the other two are doing their own things. In my quest to find a new team, I became paranoid that our reputation preceded us. No one wanted me. Did they know I was a loser last year -- but not in the successful weight-loss sense? Do they think I am a slacker?
The deadline for sign up was last week but yesterday I emailed the fitness center director to see if there were any lonesome losers like me who needed an extra body to complete their team. Turns out, there were.
So now I have a team. I considered calling us the Lonesome Losers but instead went with the Dedicated Divas -- we are willing to do what it takes to get this done, even if it means teaming up with strangers.
The program officially launched today. We had our weigh-in and body fat measured. The aspect of this program that I like is that it is not completely weight-loss driven. Our goal is to decrease the percentage of our body fat. Obviously, that does involve some weight loss to accomplish, but it shouldn't set us off on a complete scale obsession.
I think the trainer set reasonable goals for me that will go a long way toward my previously mentioned birthday deadline. I can and will reach my goals and help my team. I am ready to kick butt!
Part of me is motivated, too, by the fact that I don't want to let strangers down. Isn't that weird? We are OK with letting our friends down? Maybe it's because we know our friends will understand. And with strangers, at least I know they won't be saying, "Hey, let's go get pizza! (or chocolate or cheesecake or a Shamrock Shake)."
I mean, c'mon. I may be a Dedicated Diva, but I don't have abs, buns, arms or willpower of steel! ... Yet.
Now it's that time of year again. I've decided I am going to give this another try. The problem is that I lost my team. One teammate is pregnant and the other two are doing their own things. In my quest to find a new team, I became paranoid that our reputation preceded us. No one wanted me. Did they know I was a loser last year -- but not in the successful weight-loss sense? Do they think I am a slacker?
The deadline for sign up was last week but yesterday I emailed the fitness center director to see if there were any lonesome losers like me who needed an extra body to complete their team. Turns out, there were.
So now I have a team. I considered calling us the Lonesome Losers but instead went with the Dedicated Divas -- we are willing to do what it takes to get this done, even if it means teaming up with strangers.
The program officially launched today. We had our weigh-in and body fat measured. The aspect of this program that I like is that it is not completely weight-loss driven. Our goal is to decrease the percentage of our body fat. Obviously, that does involve some weight loss to accomplish, but it shouldn't set us off on a complete scale obsession.
I think the trainer set reasonable goals for me that will go a long way toward my previously mentioned birthday deadline. I can and will reach my goals and help my team. I am ready to kick butt!
Part of me is motivated, too, by the fact that I don't want to let strangers down. Isn't that weird? We are OK with letting our friends down? Maybe it's because we know our friends will understand. And with strangers, at least I know they won't be saying, "Hey, let's go get pizza! (or chocolate or cheesecake or a Shamrock Shake)."
I mean, c'mon. I may be a Dedicated Diva, but I don't have abs, buns, arms or willpower of steel! ... Yet.
Monday, January 14, 2008
Reach out and touch someone
Years ago, a phone company had the slogan: "Reach out and touch someone." I can tell you it's still a good suggestion today. Short of a personal visit, nothing beats a phone call with an old friend. The highlight of my day was getting to chat tonight with my buddy T-Dawg. Undoubtedly it will be the high point of Carter's entire week, maybe month.
My friend Tamara (a.k.a. T-Dawg on the volleyball court) moved away in the late summer. She was another one those girl friends (two words) that Carter lost to marriage. We hadn't talked to her in ages, mainly been in touch via email.
On Sunday, we were watching football playoffs. For some reason, Carter was really cheering for the Indianapolis Colts. When we asked why, he said, "Well Tamara lives there now so she's probably cheering for them."
We suggested he call her and find out. Unfortunately, that didn't turn out as planned. He got her voicemail and then literally held onto the phone for about a half hour, expecting her to call back any minute. We explained that it might take her awhile to call back. She might be working or have the phone turned off, etc. He was pretty crushed when we didn't hear from her before he went to bed.
She emailed me later that she just didn't get the message early enough to call him but that she'd call him Monday night. She did call. And while I did get to catch up for a few minutes, I had to turn over the phone to an anxious 9-year-old.
He took the call in our "office" with the door mostly closed. I don't know what they had to talk about for a half hour but Carter never seems to be at a loss for words. The one time I walked by the room, I heard him giving Tamara what sounded like a play by play of the end of the Colts game.
Poor T-Dawg. I appreciate the sacrifices for the sake of friendship! I don't think she minded, though. Take it from me, it would be pretty lonely in a Carter-less world. And for Carter and me, we know one phone call can sure fill a lonely spot in our hearts.
Shut the computer off and call a friend. The sound of your voice may just put a smile on their face all week.
My friend Tamara (a.k.a. T-Dawg on the volleyball court) moved away in the late summer. She was another one those girl friends (two words) that Carter lost to marriage. We hadn't talked to her in ages, mainly been in touch via email.
On Sunday, we were watching football playoffs. For some reason, Carter was really cheering for the Indianapolis Colts. When we asked why, he said, "Well Tamara lives there now so she's probably cheering for them."
We suggested he call her and find out. Unfortunately, that didn't turn out as planned. He got her voicemail and then literally held onto the phone for about a half hour, expecting her to call back any minute. We explained that it might take her awhile to call back. She might be working or have the phone turned off, etc. He was pretty crushed when we didn't hear from her before he went to bed.
She emailed me later that she just didn't get the message early enough to call him but that she'd call him Monday night. She did call. And while I did get to catch up for a few minutes, I had to turn over the phone to an anxious 9-year-old.
He took the call in our "office" with the door mostly closed. I don't know what they had to talk about for a half hour but Carter never seems to be at a loss for words. The one time I walked by the room, I heard him giving Tamara what sounded like a play by play of the end of the Colts game.
Poor T-Dawg. I appreciate the sacrifices for the sake of friendship! I don't think she minded, though. Take it from me, it would be pretty lonely in a Carter-less world. And for Carter and me, we know one phone call can sure fill a lonely spot in our hearts.
Shut the computer off and call a friend. The sound of your voice may just put a smile on their face all week.
Sunday, January 13, 2008
Season ender
Christmas -- as marked by lights hanging everywhere, cookies always on hand and a tree taking up a good portion of the living room -- is officially over in the Austin household.
We took down the tree and all the decorations in the house today. It is always a sad moment for me because I love all the lights and the festive feeling. It feels pretty good to reclaim the living room, though!
Unfortunately, these season-ending steps in no way single the end of winter. In fact, Jim and Carter had to shovel last night's snowfall this afternoon. Is there no end in sight?
To put ourselves in a "warmer" mood, we called my sister and brother-in-law in southern Texas. It was 81 glorious degrees down there! My parents will be excited to hear that. They're headed down there later this month for a four-week stint (this is how my brother-in-law Paul has earned the title Saint Paul!)
A few weeks after their return to the Arctic Tundra, it will be our turn! I realize it will be 2 months and 4 days until our flight leaves, but there's no harm in thinking sunny thoughts while scraping off ice or trying to store Christmas lights without getting them in a knot.
So long, Christmas. Hello, South Padre!
We took down the tree and all the decorations in the house today. It is always a sad moment for me because I love all the lights and the festive feeling. It feels pretty good to reclaim the living room, though!
Unfortunately, these season-ending steps in no way single the end of winter. In fact, Jim and Carter had to shovel last night's snowfall this afternoon. Is there no end in sight?
To put ourselves in a "warmer" mood, we called my sister and brother-in-law in southern Texas. It was 81 glorious degrees down there! My parents will be excited to hear that. They're headed down there later this month for a four-week stint (this is how my brother-in-law Paul has earned the title Saint Paul!)
A few weeks after their return to the Arctic Tundra, it will be our turn! I realize it will be 2 months and 4 days until our flight leaves, but there's no harm in thinking sunny thoughts while scraping off ice or trying to store Christmas lights without getting them in a knot.
So long, Christmas. Hello, South Padre!
Saturday, January 12, 2008
Play time
Carter is having a friend stay over tonight. He's been very, very, very excited about it all week! (Did I mention he's excited?)
For whatever reason, he's only had one other sleepover and it was with the same boy. He happens be in Carter's class, plus goes to Sunday School with him so this should work out well. He's a good kid so I have no worries.
They have a full schedule planned: Sledding (did that, may do it some more); homework (which, if you can believe, they are actually doing right now); movie (probably "Underdog"); playing PS2; pizza; and maybe playing PS2. Sounds like a fun time to me.
Can you believe I only had two "friends from school" sleepovers in my childhood and both were not until my senior year? One was New Year's Eve and the other "camping" in the yard Memorial Day weekend. And I wouldn't dare divulge details from those!
We did have one special guest sleep over many times when we were kids -- and that was my cousin Lonna. She was just a bit younger than us twins so the three of us found lots of interesting things to do. Many times we'd roll about in the yard, practically folded up inside those huge inflated tractor tire inner tubes. One time Lonna fell off a pile of those and broke her collar bone so that was the end of that.
Mostly we played what we might just call role-playing games. When we were younger, not knowing anything about being politically correct, we'd play Indians. In this photo taken in the summer of 1977, Lonna (at right) and I were posing in our vegetable garden. One of my older sisters took the picture and wrote the caption: The Great Warrior "Augusta" and Chief "Swanta" stalking the enemy! Pretty intimidating, eh?
When we got a little bit older, then there was no question, we were playing Charlie's Angels! You recall (if you are anything close to being hip) that the three original "angels" were Sabrina Duncan (Kate Jackson), Jill Munroe (Farrah Fawcett-Majors) and Kelly Garrett (Jaclyn Smith). You'd think we'd all fight to be Jill, but I usually picked Sabrina. I think I thought of her as more of a tomboy like me. So naturally I was perfect for the part!
I don't know when we outgrew all that (or maybe I haven't), but it's a shame that we don't see a lot kids playing that way any more. We say "go out and play" and their response is "play what?" What happened to imagination?
I'm glad the boys are at least spending some time outside today. So far the TV hasn't come on but I'm sure it won't be long. I'm actually looking forward to telling them to "calm down" or "be quiet" tonight when they're supposed to be sleeping. Because that means they're talking and laughing ... not pressing buttons on controllers to fight monsters and save our planet.
I doubt they'll remember those PlayStation battles like I remember stalking the enemy in the cornfield or fighting bad guys with the other angels!
For whatever reason, he's only had one other sleepover and it was with the same boy. He happens be in Carter's class, plus goes to Sunday School with him so this should work out well. He's a good kid so I have no worries.
They have a full schedule planned: Sledding (did that, may do it some more); homework (which, if you can believe, they are actually doing right now); movie (probably "Underdog"); playing PS2; pizza; and maybe playing PS2. Sounds like a fun time to me.
Can you believe I only had two "friends from school" sleepovers in my childhood and both were not until my senior year? One was New Year's Eve and the other "camping" in the yard Memorial Day weekend. And I wouldn't dare divulge details from those!
We did have one special guest sleep over many times when we were kids -- and that was my cousin Lonna. She was just a bit younger than us twins so the three of us found lots of interesting things to do. Many times we'd roll about in the yard, practically folded up inside those huge inflated tractor tire inner tubes. One time Lonna fell off a pile of those and broke her collar bone so that was the end of that.
Mostly we played what we might just call role-playing games. When we were younger, not knowing anything about being politically correct, we'd play Indians. In this photo taken in the summer of 1977, Lonna (at right) and I were posing in our vegetable garden. One of my older sisters took the picture and wrote the caption: The Great Warrior "Augusta" and Chief "Swanta" stalking the enemy! Pretty intimidating, eh?When we got a little bit older, then there was no question, we were playing Charlie's Angels! You recall (if you are anything close to being hip) that the three original "angels" were Sabrina Duncan (Kate Jackson), Jill Munroe (Farrah Fawcett-Majors) and Kelly Garrett (Jaclyn Smith). You'd think we'd all fight to be Jill, but I usually picked Sabrina. I think I thought of her as more of a tomboy like me. So naturally I was perfect for the part!
I don't know when we outgrew all that (or maybe I haven't), but it's a shame that we don't see a lot kids playing that way any more. We say "go out and play" and their response is "play what?" What happened to imagination?
I'm glad the boys are at least spending some time outside today. So far the TV hasn't come on but I'm sure it won't be long. I'm actually looking forward to telling them to "calm down" or "be quiet" tonight when they're supposed to be sleeping. Because that means they're talking and laughing ... not pressing buttons on controllers to fight monsters and save our planet.
I doubt they'll remember those PlayStation battles like I remember stalking the enemy in the cornfield or fighting bad guys with the other angels!
Thursday, January 10, 2008
A touch of Grey
Thanks to the ongoing Hollywood writers' strike, Grey's Anatomy fans have been in withdrawal, waiting for a new episode since Thanksgiving.
Finally tonight we got one. Those of us at work who live for these McMoments were pretty jazzed all week. Last fall, when the producers realized they had only one pre-strike episode left, they reworked this one so it would seem like a season finale, complete with cliffhangers and all that. So we knew it was going to be good.
I made sure the dishes were put away, the laundry was going and Carter's homework was done so I'd be totally free at 8 o'clock. I even told Carter, "No interruptions -- this is my hour for the month!" I was all set with my small stack of tissues handy, when the doorbell rings right at 8! What now? Who would dare interrupt Grey's?
Darn Schwan's man was at the door. I didn't really need anything but I quickly bought a few items so we could skip the sales pitch and get him the heck out of my house. When I finally reclaimed my spot on the couch, I had thankfully only missed a few minutes. It was good to be back in Grey's land again.
This episode had its emotional and intense moments, but in the end I was kind of ticked about the direction some of the story lines are going. Why can't they just let Meredyth and McDreamy be together?!
I'm really hoping we don't have to wait until next fall to see a new episode. I may be upset about it, but certainly not enough to give up on it. What kind of fan would I would be? I have to have some priorities!
Finally tonight we got one. Those of us at work who live for these McMoments were pretty jazzed all week. Last fall, when the producers realized they had only one pre-strike episode left, they reworked this one so it would seem like a season finale, complete with cliffhangers and all that. So we knew it was going to be good.
I made sure the dishes were put away, the laundry was going and Carter's homework was done so I'd be totally free at 8 o'clock. I even told Carter, "No interruptions -- this is my hour for the month!" I was all set with my small stack of tissues handy, when the doorbell rings right at 8! What now? Who would dare interrupt Grey's?
Darn Schwan's man was at the door. I didn't really need anything but I quickly bought a few items so we could skip the sales pitch and get him the heck out of my house. When I finally reclaimed my spot on the couch, I had thankfully only missed a few minutes. It was good to be back in Grey's land again.
This episode had its emotional and intense moments, but in the end I was kind of ticked about the direction some of the story lines are going. Why can't they just let Meredyth and McDreamy be together?!
I'm really hoping we don't have to wait until next fall to see a new episode. I may be upset about it, but certainly not enough to give up on it. What kind of fan would I would be? I have to have some priorities!
Wednesday, January 9, 2008
Oh, those silly hypocorisms
If you've ever cringed when you hear adults using baby talk to call each other terms of endearment like "Pookie" and "Sweetums," then you are not a fan of hypocorisms. (And you thought you'd be spared a little longer from my new "word" calendar!)
Although hypocorism (pronounced high-paw-ker-izm) looks and sounds like some serious medical term, it actually just means "a pet name" or "the use of pet names." For example, my calendar says, pet names can be diminutives like "Johnny" for "John," endearing terms such as "Honeybunch," or yes, names from baby talk like "Nana" for "Grandma."
Let's start with the diminutives. You'd think I wouldn't have a problem with my hubby being called "Jimmy," but I do. He's a grown man, for crying out loud. It seems everyone who's known him a lifetime still calls him that. I never have and probably never will. But that's my issue. It just doesn't feel right to me. Not quite as natural as calling him "Honey" or "Babe" or, well, I guess I won't mention any others here. Some things are private.
Admittedly, my hypocorisms probably aren't any better. I've been called "Rob" and "Robby" by friends, and "Robynski," "Bynski" or "Byn" by family since I was a child. I guess that doesn't sound very grown up either. When I was young, I always thought it would be cool to get a nickname some day. (Be careful what you wish for.) Ask anyone I went to college with, and they'll tell you my special name was "Hedcheese" (or just "Hed") -- a variation of my last name Hedberg, nothing to do with the mysterious loaf of pig meat!
Carter has chosen his own alias. Somewhere along the line, he fashioned himself to be a gang member and chose the name "Snipe." He even has it engraved on a pair of dog tags -- Snipe Austin! Before he was born, I just called him "Angel," not knowing if he was going to be a boy or a girl. I still use that once in awhile, along with "Sweetheart" and "Honey" and all kinds of mushy mommy stuff that would forever embarrass him if I revealed them on the Internet.
In fact, Jim has even called me Angel! Yep, he says, "She's just like an angel, always up in the air, harping about something." Ooooh. Unfortunately, I've actually earned that one. Hip, hip, hooray for hypocorisms, eh?
Although hypocorism (pronounced high-paw-ker-izm) looks and sounds like some serious medical term, it actually just means "a pet name" or "the use of pet names." For example, my calendar says, pet names can be diminutives like "Johnny" for "John," endearing terms such as "Honeybunch," or yes, names from baby talk like "Nana" for "Grandma."
Let's start with the diminutives. You'd think I wouldn't have a problem with my hubby being called "Jimmy," but I do. He's a grown man, for crying out loud. It seems everyone who's known him a lifetime still calls him that. I never have and probably never will. But that's my issue. It just doesn't feel right to me. Not quite as natural as calling him "Honey" or "Babe" or, well, I guess I won't mention any others here. Some things are private.
Admittedly, my hypocorisms probably aren't any better. I've been called "Rob" and "Robby" by friends, and "Robynski," "Bynski" or "Byn" by family since I was a child. I guess that doesn't sound very grown up either. When I was young, I always thought it would be cool to get a nickname some day. (Be careful what you wish for.) Ask anyone I went to college with, and they'll tell you my special name was "Hedcheese" (or just "Hed") -- a variation of my last name Hedberg, nothing to do with the mysterious loaf of pig meat!
Carter has chosen his own alias. Somewhere along the line, he fashioned himself to be a gang member and chose the name "Snipe." He even has it engraved on a pair of dog tags -- Snipe Austin! Before he was born, I just called him "Angel," not knowing if he was going to be a boy or a girl. I still use that once in awhile, along with "Sweetheart" and "Honey" and all kinds of mushy mommy stuff that would forever embarrass him if I revealed them on the Internet.
In fact, Jim has even called me Angel! Yep, he says, "She's just like an angel, always up in the air, harping about something." Ooooh. Unfortunately, I've actually earned that one. Hip, hip, hooray for hypocorisms, eh?
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Deal or no deal?
What would you be willing to do if you could eat whatever you want, never exercise and still be svelte? It seems some people are willing to sell their soul (practically) to be at the ideal weight. I heard a story on Headline News this morning that captured my attention.
A new poll asked: What are you willing to do to magically be at your ideal weight? You might be surprised at some of the answers, but I certainly wasn't.
Nearly 21 percent of women surveyed would trade 10 years of their life (one male viewer emailed in that he'd be willing to give up 20!). Nearly 23 percent said they would spend a week in jail. Most (85 percent) would rather have an extra toe than have 50 extra pounds!
It sounds like madness but for those of us who would love to hop off the merry-go-round or stop the hellish dieting yo-yo, it sounds almost reasonable... a tempting exchange for our soul.
Why is it so tempting? One reason is that it's long term. Most of us who have tried any of the myriad of diets out there, know they can work. For awhile. As soon as we go back to "normal" living, the weight shoots up again and we have to start all over again. That's where dieting deja vu comes into play. Haven't I lost these same 10 pounds before?!
The second reason it is such an attractive "deal" is that it is easy. Do you know how hard it is to exercise and eat right? Every day? We'd love to have an easier, softer way, but it is not meant to be. Like everything else in life, success is the result of hard work (and on rare occasions, luck). Since I am not lucky enough to have a speedy metabolism or stand 4 inches taller (at my same weight), then I only have one option left -- and it certainly isn't a magical deal with the diet devil.
What am I willing to do to get to my ideal weight? Whatever I have to. Work. Work out. Drink water. Walk. Lift weights. Just be willing. How about you?
A new poll asked: What are you willing to do to magically be at your ideal weight? You might be surprised at some of the answers, but I certainly wasn't.
Nearly 21 percent of women surveyed would trade 10 years of their life (one male viewer emailed in that he'd be willing to give up 20!). Nearly 23 percent said they would spend a week in jail. Most (85 percent) would rather have an extra toe than have 50 extra pounds!
It sounds like madness but for those of us who would love to hop off the merry-go-round or stop the hellish dieting yo-yo, it sounds almost reasonable... a tempting exchange for our soul.
Why is it so tempting? One reason is that it's long term. Most of us who have tried any of the myriad of diets out there, know they can work. For awhile. As soon as we go back to "normal" living, the weight shoots up again and we have to start all over again. That's where dieting deja vu comes into play. Haven't I lost these same 10 pounds before?!
The second reason it is such an attractive "deal" is that it is easy. Do you know how hard it is to exercise and eat right? Every day? We'd love to have an easier, softer way, but it is not meant to be. Like everything else in life, success is the result of hard work (and on rare occasions, luck). Since I am not lucky enough to have a speedy metabolism or stand 4 inches taller (at my same weight), then I only have one option left -- and it certainly isn't a magical deal with the diet devil.
What am I willing to do to get to my ideal weight? Whatever I have to. Work. Work out. Drink water. Walk. Lift weights. Just be willing. How about you?
Monday, January 7, 2008
Don't fight Monday
We saw a television commercial Sunday that made me laugh out loud.
It took me awhile to figure out what was going on. The commercial opens with shots of people waking from their beds in the early morning dark before sunrise. They leave their homes carrying things like mattresses and satellite dishes and join a group of people all headed in the same direction. They eventually gather atop a hill and use their "weapons" to unsuccessfully battle the rising sun.
When their efforts to hold back the morning fail, they grudgingly head back to their homes to get ready for work. The spot ends with a voice saying, "Don't fight Monday," and tells us to go to Monster to find a job worth waking up for.
I guess the concept for the commercial was based on research that showed Sunday night was the worst night of sleep for most people as they worried about the beginning of the workweek the next day. I don't doubt that at all. This is often true for me -- even when I'm not thinking about work! Last night, for example, I set the alarm so I could get up early and exercise. Wouldn't you know it, I was worried about getting up early and got a terrible night's sleep.
I'm proud to say that I did get up and exercised. Carter was a big lump to get going, though. He sits up in bed and the first words out of his mouth indicated the commercial's message got through. He says, "Mom, you can't fight Mondays."
Oh son, you gotta whole lotta Monday alarms to get through. I'm guessing I still have about 1,500 myself. Wow. Maybe next time I will hit the snooze!
It took me awhile to figure out what was going on. The commercial opens with shots of people waking from their beds in the early morning dark before sunrise. They leave their homes carrying things like mattresses and satellite dishes and join a group of people all headed in the same direction. They eventually gather atop a hill and use their "weapons" to unsuccessfully battle the rising sun.
When their efforts to hold back the morning fail, they grudgingly head back to their homes to get ready for work. The spot ends with a voice saying, "Don't fight Monday," and tells us to go to Monster to find a job worth waking up for.
I guess the concept for the commercial was based on research that showed Sunday night was the worst night of sleep for most people as they worried about the beginning of the workweek the next day. I don't doubt that at all. This is often true for me -- even when I'm not thinking about work! Last night, for example, I set the alarm so I could get up early and exercise. Wouldn't you know it, I was worried about getting up early and got a terrible night's sleep.
I'm proud to say that I did get up and exercised. Carter was a big lump to get going, though. He sits up in bed and the first words out of his mouth indicated the commercial's message got through. He says, "Mom, you can't fight Mondays."
Oh son, you gotta whole lotta Monday alarms to get through. I'm guessing I still have about 1,500 myself. Wow. Maybe next time I will hit the snooze!
Saturday, January 5, 2008
Target practice
If you've ever played darts, gone hunting or even golfed for that matter, you know it takes some serious concentration sometimes to hit the target. You must clear your mind. Walk through the mechanics of reaching the goal in your head. Focus, focus, focus on the target. Then throw, shoot, swing. Bulls eye! (Sometimes.)
We took Carter to the archery range down the road this morning. The club that owns it is sponsoring a youth league for the next two months so kids like Carter, who have never even touched a bow, can experiment and see if that's their thing. For 2 bucks, you can use their equipment, shoot for 2 hours (if you are up for that) and you are rewarded with a soda when you're done.
A gentleman who knew what he was doing helped Carter get set up with a bow that was appropriate for his size, gave him 5 arrows and a quick tutorial on how to hold the bow, shoot it and the proper etiquette for the shooting range.
He probably shot those 10-15 times tops. He hit the target somewhere each time but 3 maybe. After a girl from his class started shooting next to him, he even had one land in the bulls eye circle. Must have been trying to impress someone! He did have a good time so we will likely take advantage of this for the next several weeks when we can.
The archery experience got me thinking about goals and resolutions. If we didn't set them, how would we know what to aim for? We need a bulls eye. We can't go anywhere unless we know the destination, right?
I have already shared that I will garner my POWER this year with some positive alterations to my daily activities. In order to get into shape, I am making a concerted effort to exercise, drink water and eat proper portions. There is a number, too, on my scale that I would like to reach before I turn 40 this summer. I WILL make some significant progress by the first mini-goal set (in ink!) on my calendar, where it now says on March 17: Leave for Spring Break in Texas!
So I got extremely brave today and had Jim take a photo of me in my two-piece swimsuit. This will be my "before" picture. My motivator. He asked if I was going to put this on my blog and I said, "Hell no!"
... I guess it depends on how the "after" picture looks. That's my bulls eye. I am clearing my mind, focusing, taking aim and ready to fire!
We took Carter to the archery range down the road this morning. The club that owns it is sponsoring a youth league for the next two months so kids like Carter, who have never even touched a bow, can experiment and see if that's their thing. For 2 bucks, you can use their equipment, shoot for 2 hours (if you are up for that) and you are rewarded with a soda when you're done.
A gentleman who knew what he was doing helped Carter get set up with a bow that was appropriate for his size, gave him 5 arrows and a quick tutorial on how to hold the bow, shoot it and the proper etiquette for the shooting range.
He probably shot those 10-15 times tops. He hit the target somewhere each time but 3 maybe. After a girl from his class started shooting next to him, he even had one land in the bulls eye circle. Must have been trying to impress someone! He did have a good time so we will likely take advantage of this for the next several weeks when we can.
The archery experience got me thinking about goals and resolutions. If we didn't set them, how would we know what to aim for? We need a bulls eye. We can't go anywhere unless we know the destination, right?
I have already shared that I will garner my POWER this year with some positive alterations to my daily activities. In order to get into shape, I am making a concerted effort to exercise, drink water and eat proper portions. There is a number, too, on my scale that I would like to reach before I turn 40 this summer. I WILL make some significant progress by the first mini-goal set (in ink!) on my calendar, where it now says on March 17: Leave for Spring Break in Texas!
So I got extremely brave today and had Jim take a photo of me in my two-piece swimsuit. This will be my "before" picture. My motivator. He asked if I was going to put this on my blog and I said, "Hell no!"
... I guess it depends on how the "after" picture looks. That's my bulls eye. I am clearing my mind, focusing, taking aim and ready to fire!
Friday, January 4, 2008
The naked truth
During my Christmas movie marathon, I couldn't help but see commercials on the Lifetime channel for a new show called, "How to Look Good Naked." I had no intention of watching it, but it happened anyway.
Still not sure why Jim was checking out the Lifetime listings, but at 10 minutes to 10, he calls me out into the living room and says there's a show he wants me to watch. Turns out, that was the show.
Now why would he want me to watch that? Hmm... Could have something to do with my low self-esteem or the fact I am never pleased with my body/image. I mean that might have something to do with it.
In the show, the overweight woman in focus for the episode tells of her lifelong struggle with diets and her creation of a wardrobe that strategically hides her body. (We're getting warmer...)
The host spends 5 days with her, trying to get her to turn her attitude around, accept her body as is and actually love it ... enough to pose for a naked photo shoot in the end.
The premise of the show is good. I mean it would be great if women (me included) could for once be satisfied with how we are and concentrate our energies on enjoying life. Believe me, I think it can happen. I just don't think the short span of 5 days -- even with full-time attention -- can erase a lifetime of self-loathing. It certainly is worth a try, though.
Will I watch the show again? Maybe. It offered some sound advice. I just need to act on it. In the meantime, Jim will stand by with the camera...
Still not sure why Jim was checking out the Lifetime listings, but at 10 minutes to 10, he calls me out into the living room and says there's a show he wants me to watch. Turns out, that was the show.
Now why would he want me to watch that? Hmm... Could have something to do with my low self-esteem or the fact I am never pleased with my body/image. I mean that might have something to do with it.
In the show, the overweight woman in focus for the episode tells of her lifelong struggle with diets and her creation of a wardrobe that strategically hides her body. (We're getting warmer...)
The host spends 5 days with her, trying to get her to turn her attitude around, accept her body as is and actually love it ... enough to pose for a naked photo shoot in the end.
The premise of the show is good. I mean it would be great if women (me included) could for once be satisfied with how we are and concentrate our energies on enjoying life. Believe me, I think it can happen. I just don't think the short span of 5 days -- even with full-time attention -- can erase a lifetime of self-loathing. It certainly is worth a try, though.
Will I watch the show again? Maybe. It offered some sound advice. I just need to act on it. In the meantime, Jim will stand by with the camera...
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Mark your calendar
What New Year's ritual wouldn't be complete without the hangin' o' the new calendar? They have so many to choose from these days -- it's really kind of fun to hunt down something that reflects your personal interests or sense of humor.
At home, I've stood by my lighthouse theme for the kitchen calendar. For something new, I was excited to get a Grey's Anatomy calendar for work. Unfortunately, I learned yesterday, that it is too big for the wall by my desk. I have stupid lights hanging in the way and a stinkin' shelf that is just a few inches too low. I was crushed.
Fortunately, I found a good home for it. Unfortunately, I am now stuck using my Mills Fleet Farm calendar we picked up while Christmas shopping. Trust me, with ads for paint and animal health products, there'll be no day McDreaming over this one. Perhaps it will be the best thing for my productivity at work.
There is one spot of good news, though. You'll be happy to know you'll be educated this year -- thanks to my "word a day" desk calendar (read: blog material!). I might just have to tear off the sheet each day, too, and take it home so Carter will be well prepared for the Spelling Bee this year!
My other calendar on my desk is my Sisters calendar, which flips up a new inspirational quote each day. Since there are no year dates tied to it, I have re-used it for the several years since I got it from one of my sisters (naturally).
The two calendars are not necessarily compatible for blog material, however. Today, for example, the word "canker" does not tie into the quote: "Love doesn't try to see through others, but to see others through."
We'll try it again another day ... there's still a bunch of them left in 2008!
At home, I've stood by my lighthouse theme for the kitchen calendar. For something new, I was excited to get a Grey's Anatomy calendar for work. Unfortunately, I learned yesterday, that it is too big for the wall by my desk. I have stupid lights hanging in the way and a stinkin' shelf that is just a few inches too low. I was crushed.
Fortunately, I found a good home for it. Unfortunately, I am now stuck using my Mills Fleet Farm calendar we picked up while Christmas shopping. Trust me, with ads for paint and animal health products, there'll be no day McDreaming over this one. Perhaps it will be the best thing for my productivity at work.
There is one spot of good news, though. You'll be happy to know you'll be educated this year -- thanks to my "word a day" desk calendar (read: blog material!). I might just have to tear off the sheet each day, too, and take it home so Carter will be well prepared for the Spelling Bee this year!
My other calendar on my desk is my Sisters calendar, which flips up a new inspirational quote each day. Since there are no year dates tied to it, I have re-used it for the several years since I got it from one of my sisters (naturally).
The two calendars are not necessarily compatible for blog material, however. Today, for example, the word "canker" does not tie into the quote: "Love doesn't try to see through others, but to see others through."
We'll try it again another day ... there's still a bunch of them left in 2008!
Wednesday, January 2, 2008
Back to reality
I didn't realize what sloths Carter and I turned into over Christmas vacation but it was quite evident this morning. The sound of the alarm clock was such a rude awakening. Back to reality!
Carter was excited to wear his new favorite "Tough Guys Wear Pink" shirt he got for Christmas (see photo). Jim figures he'll get beat up today -- or at least have his feelings hurt. Some people just aren't open minded when it comes to gender-free color schemes.
I guess I should say I'm excited to be back at work. It's good to see my friends. And it does feel good to engage some of my brain cells again. But I wonder what's happening on Days of Our Lives. (I'm so joking. I did not watch it once while I was on break. I swear.)
My challenge today, besides the obvious, is sitting at my desk, trapped near the candy dish again. A bunch of us must have had the same idea about getting chocolate on sale the day after Christmas because it seems we have a lifetime supply (or at least a week's worth). I have to be mindful that the only way I get my POWER this year is to at least demonstrate some semblance of WILLpower.
The good news is that I am already on my fifth glass of water today and I have taken a 15-minute walk with my buddy Karen. She read my blog so she is determined we both keep our resolutions this year. I may end up using some of her willpower to supplement mine, but that's what friends are for, right?
Now, I just need someone to will me to concentrate and get back to this thing called work...
Carter was excited to wear his new favorite "Tough Guys Wear Pink" shirt he got for Christmas (see photo). Jim figures he'll get beat up today -- or at least have his feelings hurt. Some people just aren't open minded when it comes to gender-free color schemes.I guess I should say I'm excited to be back at work. It's good to see my friends. And it does feel good to engage some of my brain cells again. But I wonder what's happening on Days of Our Lives. (I'm so joking. I did not watch it once while I was on break. I swear.)
My challenge today, besides the obvious, is sitting at my desk, trapped near the candy dish again. A bunch of us must have had the same idea about getting chocolate on sale the day after Christmas because it seems we have a lifetime supply (or at least a week's worth). I have to be mindful that the only way I get my POWER this year is to at least demonstrate some semblance of WILLpower.
The good news is that I am already on my fifth glass of water today and I have taken a 15-minute walk with my buddy Karen. She read my blog so she is determined we both keep our resolutions this year. I may end up using some of her willpower to supplement mine, but that's what friends are for, right?
Now, I just need someone to will me to concentrate and get back to this thing called work...
Tuesday, January 1, 2008
This is my year
Despite the fact we were only two minutes into the new year when my hubby proclaims, "Carter, this is the year Momma turns 40," I feel good about it. Before we went to sleep last night/this morning, Jim did ask if I had any resolutions. Not yet. There is so much to do, I wasn't sure where to start!
It seems each January 1st we use the new year as an opportunity to examine our lives and determine what steps we should take to make them better. This turns into a list, often a lengthy, overzealous one, called resolutions. I wholeheartedly support the notion, but know the reality for many of us is a lack of follow-through and lasting commitment beyond 30, 60 or 90 days.
Maybe the easy route for me this year is to lower my expectations -- not resolve to change anything. Trust me, that is a very appealing option. I think what scares me is the word "change." I deal with so much change the way it is, personally and professionally, do I want to facilitate even more? Instead I think I'll stick with the word "improve" ... as in make a better effort to accomplish.
While paging through my Women's Health magazine today, the bold headline stated, "2008: This is YOUR year!" Of course, it was referring to better health ... as in this is the year I finally quit blogging about getting in shape and actually get off my butt and do it.
Could I do that? I have to believe I have the power to do that. This is how I will get my POWER in 2008:
P is for Purge. I need to purge the clutter. In my house and at my desk: What can I throw away? What can I give away? If I'm keeping it, then let's get it organized. On my calendar: Why do I feel overbooked some days? Must I always volunteer because no one else will? I need to learn to say "no" sometimes. In my soul: What am I hanging onto that I should let go? Do I hold resentments? Why do I still cut myself down and beat myself up when I know I am a good person?
O is for Observe. I do need to observe more time for myself and my family. It's been great during break to have quality time with the guys -- whether that's been in the form of a meal together or playing a game. It shouldn't be so hard to make time for this. As for myself, I enjoy getting a little time to read at night before bed, but realize beyond that, I haven't scrapbooked a page for 3 months. That almost qualifies as an emergency!
W is for Water. I must drink more water. They suggest a minimum of 8 glasses a day. That should honestly be so easy to do when I am sitting at a desk most of the time. They (as in those healthy types) also suggesting cutting out soda altogether and just drinking water. This is what I mean by making drastic New Year's resolutions. There's no way I am going to quit Diet Coke cold turkey, but I certainly can start slugging more H2O. Plus the extra trips to the bathroom will count as exercise ... which brings us to ...
E is for Exercise. Across the country, gyms and fitness centers will be jam-packed for the next month while people act on their resolution to exercise and lose weight! Much of that has to do with the post-holiday guilt, which I am suffering from just like everyone else. The reality is that I am not going to be able to "work out" every day. I already know this. If I resolved to do that and wasn't able to, my history is that I would give up and quit altogether. I need to take baby steps and be content with losing a little weight at a time. Therefore, I am merely resolving to exercise ... doing what I can, when I can. Some is better than none.
R is for Recover. The dictionary says to recover is "to regain a normal or usual condition, as in health." Admittedly, I probably wouldn't know normal if it hit me in the face. I do know, though, that I would like to recover some of the stress-free serenity of days gone by. How will I do that? Giving. Sharing my experience, strength and hope to help others. Sometimes you can't gain anything until you give something away.
If this is going to be my year. It really can't be just about me. I'm just looking for the POWER to make me a better person for those who love me and those who need me (and may not even know it). Let's make 2008 your year, too!
It seems each January 1st we use the new year as an opportunity to examine our lives and determine what steps we should take to make them better. This turns into a list, often a lengthy, overzealous one, called resolutions. I wholeheartedly support the notion, but know the reality for many of us is a lack of follow-through and lasting commitment beyond 30, 60 or 90 days.
Maybe the easy route for me this year is to lower my expectations -- not resolve to change anything. Trust me, that is a very appealing option. I think what scares me is the word "change." I deal with so much change the way it is, personally and professionally, do I want to facilitate even more? Instead I think I'll stick with the word "improve" ... as in make a better effort to accomplish.
While paging through my Women's Health magazine today, the bold headline stated, "2008: This is YOUR year!" Of course, it was referring to better health ... as in this is the year I finally quit blogging about getting in shape and actually get off my butt and do it.
Could I do that? I have to believe I have the power to do that. This is how I will get my POWER in 2008:
P is for Purge. I need to purge the clutter. In my house and at my desk: What can I throw away? What can I give away? If I'm keeping it, then let's get it organized. On my calendar: Why do I feel overbooked some days? Must I always volunteer because no one else will? I need to learn to say "no" sometimes. In my soul: What am I hanging onto that I should let go? Do I hold resentments? Why do I still cut myself down and beat myself up when I know I am a good person?
O is for Observe. I do need to observe more time for myself and my family. It's been great during break to have quality time with the guys -- whether that's been in the form of a meal together or playing a game. It shouldn't be so hard to make time for this. As for myself, I enjoy getting a little time to read at night before bed, but realize beyond that, I haven't scrapbooked a page for 3 months. That almost qualifies as an emergency!
W is for Water. I must drink more water. They suggest a minimum of 8 glasses a day. That should honestly be so easy to do when I am sitting at a desk most of the time. They (as in those healthy types) also suggesting cutting out soda altogether and just drinking water. This is what I mean by making drastic New Year's resolutions. There's no way I am going to quit Diet Coke cold turkey, but I certainly can start slugging more H2O. Plus the extra trips to the bathroom will count as exercise ... which brings us to ...
E is for Exercise. Across the country, gyms and fitness centers will be jam-packed for the next month while people act on their resolution to exercise and lose weight! Much of that has to do with the post-holiday guilt, which I am suffering from just like everyone else. The reality is that I am not going to be able to "work out" every day. I already know this. If I resolved to do that and wasn't able to, my history is that I would give up and quit altogether. I need to take baby steps and be content with losing a little weight at a time. Therefore, I am merely resolving to exercise ... doing what I can, when I can. Some is better than none.
R is for Recover. The dictionary says to recover is "to regain a normal or usual condition, as in health." Admittedly, I probably wouldn't know normal if it hit me in the face. I do know, though, that I would like to recover some of the stress-free serenity of days gone by. How will I do that? Giving. Sharing my experience, strength and hope to help others. Sometimes you can't gain anything until you give something away.
If this is going to be my year. It really can't be just about me. I'm just looking for the POWER to make me a better person for those who love me and those who need me (and may not even know it). Let's make 2008 your year, too!
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