(diva)logues

Actions > intentions

 

 

It's been quite a few months since I last blogged, but in honor of my recent birthday... here's 56 random things on my mind at 56 about health and our relationships with ourselves and others...

1. Begin each day with gratitude. It helps you see what's there, instead of what isn't.
2. Practicing gratitude is especially important when things aren't going your way.
3. Who and what you surround yourself with is your biggest influence.  If you want to start somewhere, declutter your space.  Give stuff away, sell it, throw it away.  If you haven't used it in forever, there's probably someone out there who is in need.  A decluttered space = a decluttered mind. 
4. Stop chasing a smaller body and chase a strong one instead.
5. You don't need to shrink to be more worthy.  But losing excess weight may just be the key to feeling better physically and emotionally.
6. Losing the weight of other people's opinions and expectations is even healthier for you.  
7. Go for walks. Get outside. Or hop on the treadmill if it's more convenient.  Walking is one of the best things you can do for your health.  
8. Every single organ in your body benefits from regular exercise... brain, skin, muscle, bone... you name it, exercise helps.  Want to look and feel younger?  Get moving. 
9. Our bodies weren't designed to sit at a desk for 8 hours a day.  They were designed to hunt and gather, not Netflix and chill. 
10. It's not selfish for parents to put their needs first. Our kids want us to be happy, healthy and to stick around for as long as possible.
11. Adequate sleep needs to be your best friend.  It will either help or hinder everything else in your life if you're not getting 7-8 hours regularly.
12. You can't make everyone happy and not everyone will like you no matter how much you try.  Remove the I want you to like me sticker from your forehead and put it on your mirror where it belongs.  
13. People pleasing = maximizing someone else's needs, while minimizing your own.
14. Minimizing your needs will never maximize the success of your relationships.
15. A woman staying home to raise her kids is ok.  And a woman deciding to bring home the bacon instead of staying home to raise kids is also ok. 
16. I've tended to be more old school with traditional roles and values, but judging other's choices shouldn't be ok.  
17. If you're a grown man living with your parents though, or worse yet choosing not to work at all, then I'm totally judging, bro. That's just not how a man leads in my opinion.   
18. How lean you are is the least interesting thing about you.
19. Stop hating your body and picking it apart.
20. If you don't like something about yourself, then get up and make a change.  
21. Do something, do anything... because change requires action.
22. Whatever you're not changing, you're choosing to accept though. 
23. Cardio is great for your heart health, but it's not the complete answer to weight loss.  
24. Lifting weights won't bulk you up, but you need to lift them regularly if you want to see the biggest changes in your body. 
25. Eating protein at each meal is a great way to stave off hunger and help build muscle.
26. Exercise is 20%, nutrition is 80%... and both are required with consistency if you want to achieve your health goals. 
27. In fact, what you do regularly trumps what you do occasionally.  Aim for building daily habits, not perfection.  Aim for lifestyle changes, not quick solutions.  
28. Goals require specific plans of action.
29. You can say or think all the right things, but actions supersede intentions. 
30. Failure is the path to success, but don't give up and quit when you hit it.   
31. Success doesn't happen overnight, and failure doesn't either.
32. Every fall is a chance to rise though, and there just might be something down there we're supposed to find to help us grow.  
33. Talk less, listen more.
34. We have something to learn from everyone God places in our path.  In fact, there's always a reason He placed them there.
35. Step outside your comfort zone regularly.
36. Travel, see other places, the world is bigger than your neighborhood commute to and from work every week.
37. Get off your phone and do literally anything else. 
38. And if you have to be on your phone, at least put it away when you're with others.  We don't have to be available to everyone and everything 24/7.
39. It's ok to miss a call.  It's ok to not immediately respond.  It's ok to turn off your notifications and be present.   
40. We actually used to exist without constant connection to the rest of the world.  We actually used to get from point A to point B without GPS.  We used to talk more and text less.  We used to get outside more and sit inside less.  
41. Why are little kids on phones and gadgets the second you sit down at a restaurant instead of just engaging with them?  
42. "Smart" phones have made us dumber about genuine connection with others.   
43. Our health is the most precious thing we have, yet most take it for granted until it's lost.    
44. Temporary, everything, all of it... the good days, the bad days.  Cherish the good and hang in there with the bad, because it's all ever-changing throughout your life.  Once you realize that, you're better equipped to ride the ups & downs.  
45. You have to risk possible heartache to feel immense love, but that love is worth the risk.    
46. Death is inevitable but choose to live with joy while you're still alive.  
47. Need some natural dopamine hits for a better mood?  Sunlight, lift weights, walk, dance, meaningful sex, laughter, new experiences, meditation are just a few ideas.  
48. There's nothing wrong with seeking outside mentorship or therapy.  We can all benefit from another point of view than our own.   
49. You can't build a kingdom with someone if either of you is still seeking approval from the masses.
50. There's no room for ego or pride in a relationship with others.  But having pride in the way you feel could be useful in your relationship with your own health.   
51. Healthy bodies and healthy relationships don't happen without consistent work.  
52. Keep your squats low and your head, heels and standards high.  
53. Don't adapt to the energy in the room, influence the energy in it.
54. Wake, pray, slay.  
55. Age is just a number... you are not too old and it's not too late.  
56. But aging with grace is overrated.  Age with mischief, audacity and a good story to tell.

 

XOXO

"Miss Mary Mack... all dressed in black... "

Happy last day of November... and only 25 days until Christmas Eve.  Good grief, I'm not ready yet... I've barely started my shopping.

 

Just a couple quick things to share today after a fun weekend in Myrtle Beach...

 

First time there for both of us. 

A little too chilly for swimsuits, but we did get to see the ocean and spend time outdoors.  I'm sure it would be a fun place to visit during the summer though! Kinda reminded us of Branson.  

Anyone else ever been there?  

 

 

Received a message from a friend today saying she heard a Todrick Hall song and it reminded her of me.  Love me some Todrick Hall! 

If you've attended my Cardio Dance classes over the years, you may have noticed that I've used several of his songs.

And if you're as old as I am, you probably loved Miss Mary Mack as a youngster too.  You'll get the gist of that in the song below.  LOL

But since we're on the subject, I thought I'd share one of the videos we shot recently that is coincidentally a Todrick Hall song.  

Oh how I miss dancing with all my friends!!! 

 

 

Also saw this list recently and wanted to share.  

Definitely some solid advice here... 

 

1. Compliment three people every day.
2. Watch the sunrise at least once a year.
3. Be the first to say, "hello."
4. Live beneath your means.
5. Treat everyone like you want to be treated.
6. Never give up on anybody. Miracles happen.
7. Forget the Joneses.
8. Never deprive someone of hope. It may be all he has.
9. Pray not for things, but for wisdom and courage.
10. Be tough-minded but tenderhearted.
11. Be kinder than necessary.
12. Don't forget, a person's greatest emotional need is to feel appreciated.
13. Keep your promises.
14. Learn to show cheerfulness, even when you don't feel like it.
15. Remember that overnight success usually takes about 15 years.
16. Leave everything better than you found it.
17. Remember that winners do what losers don't want to do.
18. When you arrive at your job in the morning, let the first thing you say brighten everyone's day.
19. Don't rain on other people's parades.
20. Never waste an opportunity to tell someone that you love them.

 

 

Video shot and edited by: Jim Williams/WillHe Productions

 

Hope you had a Happy Thanksgiving and happy almost December!  Bring on more holiday cheer!  

XOXO

 

 

"So mothers be good to your daughters too... "

 

A good friend recently shared this on Facebook.  Her oldest is getting ready to graduate from high school & will be off to his first year of college in the fall.  I didn't write these words, but I can relate to every single one of them. 

Still... even though Bryn is getting ready to finish up her sophomore year at Mizzou.

The quiet house is sometimes deafening. 

Childhood goes by right before your eyes.

As slow as the days & nights sometimes feel... as long as those weekends sitting in a gym watching volleyball can be... I'd give anything just to experience some of those moments again. 

And yet...  I also equally love the moments we still get with each other... like Mom's Weekend at Mizzou... or even like that time she recently came to my strength class and complained every day how sore she was.  And then 3 days later started crying in the car because she was so sore that she couldn't sleep and even Advil wasn't helping.  And then I had to try to be empathetic and not laugh... even though I was secretly proud of myself for kicking her ass.  LOL

I digress.

While I sometimes will still introduce her to people as "my little girl" (you know... the one who's way taller than me & will be 20 years old in June)... I'm more proud than I can possibly say that she doesn't need me as much anymore... that she's independent just like her parents raised her to be.

And she's just as determined to do well in school, as she is determined to have fun there too.

I mean... she is my daughter.

 

But for those of you who are getting ready to send yours out the door soon, it is possible that you'll still be close even if it's from afar and you no longer see each other in the same house every day.

I miss her like crazy, but we are still very close.

Sometimes we act more like sisters, but this stage of life is really good too. 

And no matter how old she gets or where life takes her, she'll always be my little girl.

My really cool, amazing, incredibly smart, funny, strong, beautiful little girl.

Truly blessed.

XOXO

 

 

 

 

One day they’re born.

And you feel like you have forever. Their little body fits into your lap, their hand tucked in yours, their head nestles into your shoulder. So small, so simple, so sweet. The years seem so many, the moments endless. Eighteen years feels forever.

Yet, they grow.

Time moves and ebbs and flows and things change and in it all even though time at moments seems to stand still – there it goes – moving.

They start out needing us so much. Feeding them and clothing them. Picking them up and helping with homework and dropping them off and teaching them to tie shoes or parallel park or how to multiply.

Sometimes the change is subtle and sometimes it’s crazy. A shift here, some bravery there, and in it all they don’t stay small.

We go to sleep listening for them. For a cough, the door to open, for that whisper of “mom are you awake?” when we clearly weren’t.

They stop needing to hold your hand across the street and find friends and do daring things and read and grow up. The clothes are donated, the play food let go, the training wheels discarded, the new freedoms of growing up gained.

And they grow and grow and grow. The limits morph and you stay up late again, not pacing the floor helping them get to sleep, but pacing the floor waiting for them to come home.

Your heart has grown big and ached and been broken and been proud and has this love that was once unimaginable.

And then one day, they close the door and it is the last time. The last time home with you in it is, well, home. Tears fall – joy and sadness and celebration and “where in the world did time go?”

That little one who fit in your arms so tightly now is walking out, walking away, growing up.

On their own.

Oh don’t get me wrong – It will always be home. You are home for them. But it’s not the same. Maybe we don’t talk about that space – that growing up, letting go space – when our homes, instead of becoming noisier, become the opposite.

Quiet.

In life there is that moment, that gut-wrenching place of motherhood that is both bittersweet and joyful when that little one you raised leaves.

It is a fierce bravery to let them go. It’s where we tuck back the tears and shout, “Way to go! You can do it!” But inside, sometimes we are whispering to ourselves the same thing.

You can do it.

You can love and give and in it all let them go.

We all want it. We want them to be successful, to have a voice, to find love, to pursue their dreams. Childhood is this place of pushing them to be more and speak up and live.

Letting go is the deepest love of all.

We don’t cling so tightly because we want them to fly.

And in that flying, that letting go, we become the hero. We look back and see all the bandages placed and late nights and slammed doors and giving and loving and the courage it took to say, “fly, sweet child, fly.”

From me.

The mom always learning to let go.

Holding her once little one in her arms.

~Rachel
Finding Joy

 

"And I choose joy... let it move you... "

Just a quick post today with some positivity to start the week... a song that's been stuck in my head on repeat all weekend, and a Daily Motivator quote that relates well to the lyrics. 

Your attitude determines how your day, your week, your month, your year, your LIFE will go... regardless of what's going on in the world around us. 

YOU have the power to choose.  YOU DECIDE. 

So turn that frown upside down. 

XOXO

 

Be joyful

By Ralph Marston

Allow yourself to be joyful. It is as simple as that.

Strive and calculate, bend and then stand firm, execute your plans, hold fast to your intentions. And no matter what the outcome, let joy be a part of it.

The world often does not work the way you thought it would. Life surprises you in many directions, and would have scant appeal otherwise.

It is never as good as you wished, never as bad as you feared. And always there is room for as much joy as you care to give.

So give more, and then some. Depend not on things going a certain way, but upon you choosing to be a certain way.

Respect your deepest obligation and celebrate your highest privilege. Be joyful.

 

"So put your best face on, everybody... "

 

Bryn was home this past weekend for a couple reasons.  Mainly because she was heading to Florida to spend the week with her dad.  But she was able to attend a wedding shower for a longtime friend with me before she left.  

 

Coincidentally, it's also the one-year anniversary of lockdown and the craziness COVID has brought into all of our lives.

 

She doesn't come home that often because she has school, a job, sorority life and well... a life.  And while I miss her terribly, we stay in close touch.

But honestly, I'm not above bribing her with food & shopping, so I've been known to drive up for the day just to see her for a couple hours. 

 

When she does come home though, it's like nothing has changed.

 

Bryn:  Mom!  (me sitting on the floor of my bedroom looking for something to wear to my class) You have to taste this smoothie I just made.  I almost threw up when I tried it.

Me:  Uhhh... no.  Thanks anyway.

Bryn:  No.  Just try it!  You have to try it.

Me:  Why do I want to try something that is going to make me throw up? And what's in it anyway? 

Bryn:  That greens shake stuff, a banana, that frozen acai stuff...

Me:  Wait... wait.  Why did you mix chocolate stuff with the acai stuff? 

Bryn:  I don't know?  I didn't know it was chocolate?  Please.  Just try it!

Me:  Ok...  (takes a drink)....  Well, I kinda taste something not great, but I'm not gagging.

Bryn:  (takes one more drink in solidarity)  and then literally dry-heaves over my bed

Me:  If you puke on my bed, I'm gonna be mad.  Get out of here! Go in the bathroom!!   Also... are you sure you're not allergic to something you put in the smoothie?!!

Bryn:  No, I'm not allergic (leaves the room continuing to gag)

 

And this, folks, pretty much sums up 2 months of lockdown last year.  It's how we roll.  But we definitely keep each other laughing & entertained. 

 

She's my favorite person in the whole wide world. 

 

And as much as I'm sure we'd both agree that neither one of us would like to repeat last year's lockdown... if I had to do it all over again... she'd be right there beside me.  Doing a lot of walking outside to survive it all, I'm sure, much to her dismay. 

A little vitamin D never hurts, right? 

 

In totally unrelated news... if you're looking for ways to do more than just survive in these crazy times... and THRIVE instead... you could always hang with me at Bloom! We have a 7 classes for $77 special right now. 

Here's a tiny snippet of my strength class if you want to join me sometime!   Low weights & high repetitions... tone up, create lean muscle, and well... muscle burns calories while at rest too, so it's a win-win!

 

 

Although... have we met?  My first & true love is dance... so you could always join me for that too!  In fact, I'm doing it tonight at 5:30. 

Find us on MINDBODY & secure your spot because class sizes are still limited.

{offer is good thru Sunday, March 21st}

Your first class is FREE!

XOXO

Change nothing... and nothing changes...

photo cred: AD images

 

There are many reasons I prefer Instagram to Facebook, but one of the main reasons is that I have more control of the content I'm seeing.  Unlike Facebook where I have mostly family, friends and acquaintances that I'm connected with... and a little too much political banter... on Instagram I'm following a lot of accounts that inspire me or have content that makes me laugh or think. 

My own Instagram content is different than what I generally post on Facebook... especially on my "story" where I regularly post stuff that might inspire, motivate or make you laugh.  Although my sense of humor is somewhat twisted so if you're also into sarcasm, I'm less likely to offend you.  In my defense though... I only have about 1/4 of the number of followers that I do on Facebook... so there's less to offend.  LOL

 

Matthew Hussey is someone I follow.  I found him when he was interviewed by Ed Mylett who I was already following on Instagram.  I've shared content from both of them on here before.  And while Matthew is an author & gives content specific to dating advice... it's not why I decided to follow him.  Not that I don't need that kind of advice, because Lord knows any advice is welcome.  LOL  However, a lot of what he posts makes sense about human interaction of any kind... how our own upbringing or past experiences shape who we are as adults and all the baggage we have to unpack with that if we want healthy experiences and communication with others. 

 

Today his post was titled:  What are you doing to live YOUR life today?

and the following was in the caption...

 

- Doing 10 sit-ups is better than scrolling photos of the perfect, glistening bodies of people who workout for a living.

- A hike you do on a shitty path near your house is more nutritious than watching somebody else walk around the Italian Riviera on Instagram.

- Attempting to cook one new meal is more valuable than watching an entire season of a cooking show.

- Inviting 2 friends you don’t see too often for a catch-up is more valuable than watching videos of other people hanging out with their entourage

- Talking to one new person is more valuable than scrolling through pictures of a seemingly perfect Instagram couple #couplegoals

- Making 2 sales calls today is more valuable than 1000 #MillionaireMindset quotes with Ferraris and expensive watches in the background.

It’s fine to take moments to enjoy these things as inspiration, entertainment, or even escapism. But don’t spend so much time in escapism that you forget about your real life. These things do nothing to build you. They are hollow, empty-calorie substitutes for living our actual life.

Inhabit your own life. Make it bigger, richer, more nutritional - even if only by inches each day. Who cares if it feels like nothing in comparison to what others have, are doing, are achieving. It’s REAL.

In the end the real moments you experience in your own life will be worth far more to you than the time you spent being a spectator for the peaks of everybody else’s existence.

 

 

In my own case... I was having a bad day last week & randomly got a last minute invite for happy hour with a few girls. 

My mind went in 2 different directions... decline, stay home, likely scroll through social media, watch TV & sulk about canceled plans OR just say yes and go. 

Honestly I strongly considered declining, but made myself reply yes & go take a shower.  Not only was I glad I went though, it ended up being one of the most fun nights I've had in a long time.  It was last minute.  I was supposed to have other plans.  And had I not said yes, I would've never known I was going to miss as much fun as I had, which by the way also took me out of my own "sulking" and into experiencing life... my own good life.

 

How often do you find yourself "escaping" your real life or procrastinating getting things accomplished?  Are you Netflix & chilling more than you're actually chilling with friends or family?  Are you counting how many "likes" you have on social media more than you're concerned with being likeable and engaged with the people in your own home... the people who supposedly matter the most?  Do you have more screen time than exercise time? 

His post makes a lot of sense. 

But reading a post and actually applying it by changing habits & behaviors is two different things. 

 

If you're looking to make changes in your life... start with some of your daily habits that are "time wasters" and replace that wasted time with something that could benefit you in a more positive way.  Here's some ideas that can take between 5 minutes to 1 hour of your time...

 

Okie dokie then... close up your phone or laptop & go take a walk.  I'm getting ready to do the same.  It's a beautiful day!

XOXO

Choose grace for others and for yourself...

 

 

A longtime friend of mine recently shared this on Facebook & I love it.  Such words of wisdom, not only for my own "kid," but for ANYONE, no matter your age. 

One thing is for sure... my kid & I have always kept each other laughing. 

And for that, I am beyond grateful.

 

 

 

Ten things I want my kids to know:

 

1. Happiness is a lot of work. You can’t be lazy or entitled to achieve it.

 

2. You will make mistakes and they will only define you if you give it that kind of power. If the lesson is learned, the mistake is worth it. It’s your choice whether or not it wins. You are not a prisoner to your past and you are allowed to grow.

 

3. The world owes you nothing. It does not care who you are, where you come from or what you think you deserve. Everything you achieve will have to come from your own dedication to what you love. It will not be handed to you easily.

 

4. People do not get to tell you who you are. Make peace with your own soul and give no one the power to tell you that you’re something you’re not. Know who you are and be okay when others do not understand you.

 

5. Work hard. Never go into anything with half your heart. Respect is earned by how you did the job and not the title by your name.

 

6. Show up for your people. No matter what has happened, show up. That’s what people will remember about you in the end of all of this.

 

7. Choose grace for others and for yourself. No one gets it right. You won’t either. Bitterness is the anchor to the soul but grace sets you free.

 

8. Have fun. Be adventurous. None of us are getting out of this alive so make the time you have count with the people who actually matter.

 

9. Laugh in the good times and the bad. Your sense of humor and your ability to take a punch will set a strong foundation of stability.

 

10. Love God! He’s the most consistent thing you’ll ever have!

 

 

 

 

 

And speaking of my kid... I finally just got to see her yesterday after almost 2 months.

So yep... it was a pretty great day.

 

 

 

Enjoy the rest of your Sunday & have a great week! 

XOXO

I like big bags and I cannot lie...

 

I mentioned in my last post that watching YouTube videos has caused me to sell some clothing, shoes & handbags via online consignment sites.  I've purchased some handbags/accessories as well.  

Has anyone else done this yet? 

 

Of course buying/selling online isn't a new thing, but doing it with porch pickup or other typical local social media routes isn't the safest alternative for a single woman doing that by herself.  And quite frankly, I haven't been impressed with the amount of money they're willing to give you for your stuff at places like Hut 8... although maybe areas outside of O'Fallon pay more... who knows. 

 

According to VOGUE magazine though, the luxury resale market is booming & apparently causing a shift in the way consumers make expensive purchases. 

And in my opinion... why not?!  Bags/accessories are usually in great condition & a fraction of the price if you purchased it brand new.   AND these companies are inspecting the items to make sure it's not fake. 

 

I've tried a few sites lately and have been VERY happy with buying AND selling! 

 

The bug all started with a Fendi handbag I've had for probably almost 15 years and literally used maybe once.  I bought it online and wasn't crazy about the size of it, but kept it thinking maybe I'd change my mind or find the perfect outfit for it.  Never happened. 

However, I kept thinking... it's Fendi so it has value.  And it was cute just hanging there on the chest in my closet too.  What can I say... my mom collects bells & I collect handbags.  LOL

 

However... even if I did consider selling it all these years, I had no idea what it's current value was.  

One thing I was fairly sure of though... Hut 8 was likely not going to give me a fair price & I figured random strangers on Facebook Marketplace weren't either.  LOL

 

So I took a chance & sent it to the Real Real because I'd seen them advertise on Bravo... during the Housewives of course. 

I did email & ask questions... like... what if my bag doesn't sell, then what?  They said items typically sell within 30 days, but if it's been 90 days & you don't have luck, you can request to have it returned to you. 

Anyway... my bag sold in less than 2 weeks.  Would I have pocketed more cash had I sold it on my own?  Absolutely.   But I'm still happy with the fact that I didn't have to photograph it, post it & deal with selling it to strangers...

And that started the ball rolling on selling more stuff! 

 

I have since found a couple more sites I LOVE... Thred Up & Rebag:

 

• THRED UP is a great resource for getting rid of brand name clothing, shoes, handbags, jewelry & accessories.   Click on this link for $10 off your first purchase. 

I love that they'll either send you a big bag with the free shipping label already adhered OR you can print out a free shipping label & just use your own boxes.  Either can be filled up to 30lbs.  I went the box route because it takes longer to wait for them to ship you a bag.

I sent 2 boxes of stuff and I love that they photograph & then give you an itemized list of what they kept to sell.  So far I've sold a Coach handbag, an Express cardigan & blouse, Victoria's Secret leggings, Sam Edelman pumps, a Nike shirt and a couple coats since I took this screenshot.  Once each item sells, you get a percentage of the sale...

 

 

 

• REBAG is slightly different for selling.  You send them a photo of your handbag & if they accept it... you send it in using a free prepaid shipping label and then they pay you within 2 days of receiving it.  So... no waiting to see if it sold before you're paid on this website!
• Get 15% OFF ALL PURCHASES ON THE ENTIRE SITE through Sunday, December 1st: Rebag

 

But again... I'm really digging using these resources for BUYING... especially after I've sold stuff.  Out with the old & in with the NEW. 

Or rather used, I suppose... but it's new to me.  LOL

 

I've snagged a bag, a belt & a wallet in recent months... all used... all at a steal... and so far I haven't been disappointed with any of my purchases OR my sales! 

 

Have you ever tried this & if so... let me know what your experience has been!

XOXO

"Rhythm is a dancer... it's a source companion... "

Sometimes... or well I should probably say MANY times... when I sit down to choreograph routines for my classes and look to YouTube for inspiration, I'll get sidetracked and watch something completely unrelated. 

In fact, I've kind of got into watching a lot of videos lately... which has also lead to selling old clothing, handbags & shoes... and well, even buying a couple designer bags from consignment... but that's a fun story for another day. 

 

Today, a preview for an Ellen episode grabbed my attention because it mentioned dancing in the title. 

Makes sense, right.  I mean... I should be doing my own dancing, but whatever. 

 

If you watch her show, which I don't... and not because I don't think she's incredibly talented & hilarious, I just don't watch much TV especially during the day... you've probably seen the games she plays.  This particular game had Ellen & Twitch guessing whether the audience member could dance based simply on their appearance &/or body language while talking to them. 

All dancing aside, or rather the lack thereof, I was literally laughing out loud at Twitch & Ellen's reactions & responses.  Seriously.  Literally laughing out loud.  And since I live in a townhouse I often wonder if my neighbor can hear me. 

This can happen while group texting with my family as well, because they're ridiculously funny. 

And I'm a loud laugher sometimes, what can I say.

 

Anyway...  being the very focused instructor that I am... I watched another video after that with  the same game... again laughing out loud.  I mean... sometimes a girl needs a good laugh.  So what if I don't have any new material for class?

 

And well... suffice it to say I thought... what the hell, as long as I've strayed this far off course, why not just go to Ellen's entire YouTube page and see if there's anything else good I've been missing. 

Don't judge.  Sometimes I'm just not inspired to dance.  Shocking, I know.

 

Why this video captured my attention next, I don't know.  The name of the movie, I guess... although I haven't heard about it yet or seen any previews.  So I clicked on it. 

And let's just say my out loud laughing went straight to crying in 2 minutes flat. 

Hi, I'm Deana.  I laugh easily AND cry easily as well...

 

This looks good.  And pretty realistic.  Divorce or not, marriage is work.  Not sure if I'll watch it when it comes out in December if I managed to cry just watching the dang trailer, but it is apparently being released on Netflix too.  So maybe I'll just do that in the privacy of my own home rather than embarrass myself in public.  LOL

I watched a couple more related videos to the movie because my curiosity was now piqued.   Apparently Scarlett was going through her own divorce when she was asked to play the role.  The director had no idea that she was & she had no idea what the movie was about when he asked to meet with her.  But in hindsight she said it was cathartic to be part of the movie. 

And here's a little more about what went into it as well...

 

 

In related news, the house that I built with Bob just went on the market a couple days ago.  It's the house Bryn was born & raised in.  And while I haven't lived there for almost 4 years now, and Bryn has of course been with me the majority of that time, I'd be lying if I didn't say it's kind of sad.  I imagine she feels the same way about it's impending sale, but she has a lot of good friends and fun stuff going on at Mizzou right now so it's a great distraction.  She really is enjoying her time there.  I'm so grateful. And if you'll allow me a little more bragging... she received notice of Academic Excellence from the university because her grades are so awesome. 

So yeah... no complaints here even if I do think she burns the candle at both ends & needs to get more sleep.

And man do I miss her.  This empty nest thing is real, yo. 

 

But if you haven't already figured out after years of reading this silly blog... writing is cathartic for me. 

And even better than that... I've got a lot of cool friends, a very funny family and of course much dancing to keep me distracted. 

Even if I don't have any new choreography today.

 

 

But speaking of TV and how I don't watch much of it... the Housewives are on.  So yeah... I need to tune in.  It's a level of crazy I just don't want to miss...  LOL

Between that show & 2 fun classes at Bloom beforehand... Tuesday might be my fav night of the week, I'm just sayin...

XOXO

"If you liked it then you should have put a ring on it..."

I always find it interesting & also very creepy when I've been shopping for a pair of shoes or something online & then that same pair of shoes shows up in my Facebook feed just taunting me.  Like... remember me... the pair you wanted to put in your cart? 

 

To my knowledge I don't have Facebook linked to anything else.

My Instagram posts are usually totally different content & don't feed into Facebook.   

I don't sign in with Google or do any kind of crossover sign-ins like that.

I have the option of feeding my blog content through Facebook, but it doesn't automatically happen.

 

Aside from that... I don't understand how "Big Brother" watches my shopping habits or reading content.  But it does seem that if I click on a link to read it on Facebook.... they just assume I must REALLY be interested in that topic & then it shows up tenfold. 

 

So perhaps the fact that I mentioned my divorce in my last blog post, Facebook thinks I'm interested in all topics concerning divorce now.  Which literally just made me laugh out loud. 

Let's get one thing straight, Facebook, I'm not.  Assuming you're listening, that is, & apparently you are.

 

However, since Facebook thinks divorce is of major concern to me... this particular link showed up in my feed & I'd love some opinions from people who are or have been divorced because I have to admit, it did get me thinking...

 

By Liza Caldwell, Cofounder, SAS for Women.
 

As Beyonce Says, “Ring Off!”
 

Although the legal dust has settled and you are officially “divorced,” you probably realize that your process is not quite complete. Things are still messy and unclear; that’s because you’ve not yet arrived at your final destination, your stabilized AFTERWARD. You are recovering from this life altering event, reassessing and rebuilding yourself as an independent person, and you realize you actually have limited resources. You have limited time, strength, mental space, and even material things. Often, this is the time you are looking for ways to free up your life even more, to rid yourself of unneeded baggage, to streamline. And so inevitably there comes this question. The one we ask you now: why are you holding on to all that stuff anyway?

 

Why are you holding onto all that stuff anyway?

Yes, there’s the emotional toil, the grief, the anger, the loss that must be contended with… but what about the symbols? Certainly ask yourself this question about your engagement ring or other things your ex may have given you. Why are you holding onto them? Pause for a moment before you answer. I encourage you to write down your answers so you can consider them. I know, because I myself had some very good answers that genuinely (well, sort of) held water:

• Maybe my daughters would like the ring (but really, why would I send out that karmic message?)

• It was kinda pretty (it wasn’t what I would have chosen, to be frank)

• It was my “You Never Know” (I hadn’t hit that point yet where I’d have to hock my jewelry. Until I did.)

I have heard better reasons: “It was his grandmother’s, and she would want me to have it,” or “It was custom made, I love it.” Admittedly, that last one is rare.

 

 

It’s okay. Throughout history, jewelry has done this for us, for women. We’ve been given it, we’ve adored it, we’ve cherished it, it’s helped us cross borders. It’s a currency when we can’t access cash. It has literally saved our lives, liberated us, as we sewed it into our hems, kept it next to our hearts, swallowed it with hope.

If you don’t keep it, what could it do for you instead?

• Wipe clean a credit card debt?

• Be on a gondola float in Venice?

• Buy a flight to see your oldest girlfriend?

Are you not sure?

Why not find out the real value of the stuff under the bed? By all means, hang onto it if you like, but do make that decision from an informed place, not one of mythology. Know the real value and cost of hanging onto something. With your jewelry, you can do it with Worthy, or with any GIA or IGI-certified jeweler for that matter. (But make sure s/he is certified.) I myself like the easy method of sending things off to the universe, to have them valued, a la Wor-thee, then I can decide what to do with it, and perhaps it circles back to me in the form of a check!

 

 

Here’s something I learned the hard way

While I am here, allow me to share the biggest thing I learned (— I did in fact sell my engagement ring and other trinkets for a worthy cause, the final semester of education of my daughter.) Here’s the deal. The truth is we tend to romanticize the value of these trinkets. We expect we’re going to get as much out of them as they cost in the first place. You won’t, I am sorry to say. The price you pay originally includes the design time and artistry that went into the piece. When you go to sell, they really only look at the value of the stones and metal themselves. The point is, you are probably not going to get what you think you are going to get for it. I just want you to mentally prepare yourself.

 

SEND

So if you find it difficult to give up, ask yourself what’s really going on.

Finding it hard to part with it? Think about it for a moment and you may realize it’s not just about the ring.

It’s about the loss. You are here in this place, reading this post for a reason. Forgive yourself. Love yourself! What we find working with women who struggle through this stuff is that you are probably hanging onto certain things, vestiges of another time, because you are in mourning.  You are mourning the real loss of another lifetime or story you told yourself. Who you used to be. You have likely deferred dealing with these kinds of issues for good reasons, but now you are starting to lighten. You are starting to declutter, you want to live cleanly. You are choosing and purging. You are deciding how you will live going forth.

You are starting to believe there is real possibility for your life, you are operating now out of this place of inspired thinking. You realize carrying around hardware from an old chapter sounds heavy, when really it could be letting you move and groove and fly.

Get scrappy. Go creative. Not just with jewelry, but with papers, files, events, recyclables, and the questionable people in your life; start choosing only what is worth keeping. I have never heard a woman say she regretted offloading the things that were weighing her down.

 

||source||

 

So I guess that's my question.  If you're divorced, have you sold your ring(s)?  And why or why not? 

I don't need the money to pay bills.  But doing something to make me happy like taking a trip is probably what made me think otherwise.  Or maybe even doing something to my house, like building another dressing room closet since well... that did make me pretty happy at one time. 

A girl does need a place to put all those online shoe purchases, Mr Facebook stalker. 

 

And what would I ever do with the ring it if I kept it?  It's gorgeous & I still love it, and yes there's sentimental value, but I obviously can't wear it anymore & haven't worn it in over 3 years... so what purpose does it serve now?

Hit me with your opinions on this. 

And side-note... no, I'm not actually contemplating sending my ring "off to the universe" to get valued... I'd use my own jeweler thankyouverymuch.

 

I mean... I'm an idiot sometimes, but not quite to THAT level. 

"You were only waiting for this moment to arise..."

 

Music is so powerful... the feelings it creates... the memories it brings back... it's always been such a huge part of my life.  Music was always playing in our home growing up.  Even had my own Donny & Marie 45-record player in my room before I could afford to buy a decent stereo.  Columbia House addict anyone??  Why yes, I do have a penny.  If that doesn't show my age, I don't know what does.

It's still very important in the job that I do.  Music can make or break an experience for someone, especially in a fitness class.

 

But I felt compelled to quickly write & share this video I saw on Facebook.  

Funny how a 20-minute video can literally make you smile the entire time, laugh out loud & even cry not once but TWICE while you're watching it.  First... because they sang Blackbird, which we played at my sister's funeral, and then again toward the end when they sang Hey Jude... because that song always reminds me of an entire house full of people who had gathered after my best friend's mom's funeral years ago, all singing that song together in honor of her mom, Judy.   

 

If the Beatles didn't play some role in your life with memories... well... you must just be young.  Although just like they mention in the video... their songs are still relevant today. 

If you need a good smile today, watch this...

 

.

 

XOXO

Happy Gal-entine's Day...

 

 

Ok so I know I've posted this photo on here before, but it's probably one of my fav photos of us ever.  It was taken of us in a hotel room in London and we were laughing our guts out as usual.  Who knows why. 

I laugh a lot, that's no secret.  However, there's only a few who can make me obnoxiously laugh to the point of tears & no sound coming out of my mouth... & she's one of them.  My dad is another.  Actually my entire immediate family.  They're crazy.  I don't even know how it gets to this point with us, but it happens quite a bit & usually over something really stupid. 

So last night I said goodnight to Bryn, told her to please turn off her phone & give her eyes & her brain a break... and then went into my room & got in bed.  A few minutes later, I get a text from her (yes, from across the hall) of the following video she apparently took a couple months ago & probably put on her Snapchat story for all I know.  I transferred it to Youtube so I could share it on here & I'm sure no one really cares about the stupidity of this except for me, but I want to remember it & I'm so glad she took it.  It's SO us.

Neither one of us can even remember why we were laughing.  And if anyone else was in the room with us during these episodes, they could surely never understand a word of the unintelligible stuff that comes out of our mouths while we're gasping for air... only for some reason, we can understand each other in the midst of it.  And it just carries on & on until I'm yelling, stop... my stomach hurts! 

Needless to say, I ended up laughing my guts out at bedtime last night & so was she... each in our own bedrooms across the hall.  

 

 

And this is why she's my favorite person in the whole world.  Truly blessed. 

Whether you celebrate Valentine's or not, hope your day is full of happiness & some laughter too! 

"Darkness cannot drive out darkness.. only light can do that... "

 

Well... here we go 2018.  New year... new "resolutions."  

 

I have to say... I've struggled with getting back to writing for awhile now... something I was so regular about at one time... something that's always been a creative outlet for me & my most comfortable way of communicating.  The lack of writing is of no surprise here, as most of my blog posts in the last year or so usually began with something like... "well, it's been awhile..."

Considering I've had this blog for about 10 years, that's frustrating. 

Part of my recent hesitation to resume writing on a public platform is that I'm going through a divorce.  And because of that I have to be aware of & careful about what's on social media.  So please refrain from commenting with regard to that topic right now... and thank you.  ♥♥♥ I suppose I felt that I could at least post fitness-related stuff though... or family trips & holidays... but then, I never really got back to blogging even with regard to those topics.   

Not sure exactly what I was doing during this time of not writing, but I gotta be honest... I guess I did occasionally keep up with the Kardashians.  And their fondness for a tossed salad in a clear plastic container in like every episode reminded me I should start making more of those... even though I'm kind of lazy & it takes time to chop all that stuff up.  It is a healthier alternative to popcorn & wine though, so I call that a win for some of the senseless time they've sucked from me. 

Anyway... enough of my disappearance into reality TV.  Let's give this blogging thing a whirl instead. 

One thing I can speak of with regard to the past year are endings & new beginnings...

 

1. I had big changes with regard to my job this past year.  2017 began with another studio closing, just a couple weeks prior.  After over 2 years of teaching there, it was safe to say there was a lot of disappointment & shock as far as emotions go...  and I think I speak for all of us... both instructors and members.  And while I still see a lot of the faces I was blessed to see on a regular basis, there's many faces I no longer see & wonder how people are doing.  A lot of friendships are formed at the gym.  We have FUN while we're there & connections are made because of how much time is spent there with each other.  In addition to that job, my time with another gym came to an end in April, which was totally unplanned & extremely disappointing to say the least.  It's where it all started for me... and I could go on & on for days about how much my class peeps impacted & changed my life like I could've never imagined...  but I made the decision it was time to move on once my eyes were finally opened.
2. When one, or rather two, doors close though... another opens WIDE.  You have to have faith in this, whether you realize it during your crying & kicking time or not.  Positive things have continued to happen & goodness is ALWAYS in the horizon if you stay present & trust God in your life journey.  
3. Besties, friends, comrades and acquaintances... for a reason, for a season, for a lesson.  At a few months shy of 50, I'm still trying to figure this one out.  Clearly age doesn't always equate with maturity.  And I'm not talking about acting stupid, as I'm totally down with that.  I'm talking about wondering if some people ever really leave high school in the way they navigate through life.  It perplexes me.  Although the majority of my friendships, in the last 10 years anyway, were formed because of Zumba.  And I've said many many times... Zumba brings out the CRAZY like no other fitness format... mostly in a good way that I freakin' LOVE, but occasionally in a might-need-meds kind of way so maybe that's the problem?  LOL  I'm also trying to get better with my verbal communication skills.  Yes.... you CAN teach an old dog new tricks.   I lost a longtime friend this past year because I was friends with someone, who in her mind, had done something she didn't agree with.  Batshit crazy, if you ask me, & she who lives in glass houses shouldn't throw rocks.  I was subsequently "unfriended" on Facebook AND in real life due to association... along with Bob at the time.  We both just kinda went... huh???  She's one of my few non-gym friends & now in retrospect, I think she may have needed meds AND Zumba, just sayin'.  We keep it real.  To be honest, I'm still looking for the lessons in why friendships can fizzle, how other "friends" can take advantage of your trust, while also continuing to speak my own truth in the most gracious way possible.  However... I also find that God works in ways that truly have meaning if we just stay open to finding the lessons in all of it.  And I try to relate what can go on in mid-life with my teenage daughter because friendship woes clearly don't end in high school.  But my begging days did end at 19 with my boyfriend who broke up with me.  Made an ass out of myself then, so... what can I say except I'm probably not going to be begging for anyone else to keep me around since that didn't fare so well either.  LOL 
4. Speaking of my teenage daughter... we're planning a trip to Los Angeles this summer.  Just a few days ago she said, "We should get matching tattoos while we're in California."  I have to say it made me go... hmmm.  Neither of us have tats, nor does anyone in my immediate family... although my sister, mom & I have talked in the past about getting them with regard to my sister Kaysy.  She promptly went on to say that "there's this one place in LA, but the guy is famous & charges a minimum of $250 no matter how small it is."  I said, "yeah, I don't think so."  I'm intrigued though & think it's sweet she's been thinking about doing something like that with me. 
5. Also speaking of my daughter... she got her drivers license last summer.  So... uh yeah... new beginnings there for sure, as well as trusting & praying while she becomes more & more independent.  Hard to believe that in only a year & a half she'll be headed to college.  I'm planning on stalking her though, so don't worry, I'll be just fine.  But let's keep that on the down-low so she doesn't get suspicious.
6. Speaking of which, we toured Mizzou a few months ago since she's pretty sure that's where she wants to go.  Did I ever mention I went to Mizzou my freshman year?  Then I followed that boyfriend from above home at the end of the year & we broke up that summer.  Add it to my list of dumb moves I've made in my life, but it did mean I'd end up getting my degree at Missouri State University & I loved that school so much.  So... all's well that ends well.  Or ends with senseless begging, I mean.  Although actually, we're still friends to this day!
7. Read a thought-provoking & great self-help book in a recent book club... The Emotionally Healthy Woman.  Highly recommend it for anyone seeking to continually grow through life, not just go through life.  It's good stuff & I've been working hard to apply what I've learned to my everyday life.  Even better than the book were the conversations during book club.  Thankful for being lead to that room, that group of women & that book.  Nothing happens by accident.  Saying what I mean, meaning what I say & doing so without over-thinking everything... THIS is taking me into the new year.  And happily, the year has already started off with a bang.  Granted that was a champagne cork, but I'm hopeful for much light, love & grace ahead surrounded by my tribe of good vibes.  And a LOT of crazy Zumba people, of course!

 Hope your year is off to an amazing start as well!  Happy 2018!

"Get the vibe... it's gonna be lit tonight... no lie... "

 

It's been awhile since I've posted... I feel like I start every blog post that way in the last couple years... but I ran across this video by accident when it looped right after another video I saw on Facebook.  I found it to be very thought-provoking.  Ordinarily I would've clicked off the next video & scrolled on, but something about the title made me stop & watch...

 

 

Thoughts? 

I think there's a whole lot of truth to it.  People tend to show what they want you to see.  Maybe it's real... & maybe it's Maybelline.

Maybe their life really IS happy... & maybe it's an illusion created by the right shot & a cute smile.

Maybe they are out having great convo & memorable moments with others...& maybe they're together, but more engaged with people on the screen of their phone. 

 

Maybe some of life's best moments aren't even captured in photos... and no one ever sees them on social media. 

No check-ins, no status updates, no likes... just your own real life. 

 

And some of life's worst may have happened after a photo was posted.  Who knows?

 

 

I just returned from an amazing trip with my family.  My sister posted some highlights from each day, but there's probably 100 more photos that were taken, along with so many stories & memories.  And that doesn't even include the 70 professional shots we have as a gift for my parent's 50th wedding anniversary & my mom's 70th birthday.... which was the whole reason for the trip. 

Just my parents, my sister, my daughter & my niece... so much love.

I've had a lot of people ask about our vacation & tell me they enjoyed the photos... said it looked like we had fun.  And we did.  We really really did.  It was one of those trips where you don't want to leave because you're having so much fun & so many laughs together.  And well... the location wasn't half bad either!

 

But I've been on a lot of trips in my lifetime.  And while the opportunity to travel can be amazing... it really is WHO you're with that can make or break a trip.  And not all vacations leave you feeling such a deep sense of happiness & gratitude.  

So very thankful for the opportunity my parents gave us.  Maybe I'll eventually post more about it, since Bryn also captured quite a bit of video with her Go Pro camera & I'm still patiently waiting bugging her to edit & create something.  LOL 

 

 

And then there's this.  It came up in my Timehop the other day because I posted it a few years ago, but it speaks so much truth about what really is MOST important...

 

And with that... it's almost time for ZUMBA... my favorite time of day... 

Keepin' it REAL, yo...

 

 

Whyyyy has it taken me so long to jump on this hot mess express band wagon?  Glass of wine, some popcorn & I'm hooked for hours.  Just in the past few weeks I've caught a marathon of the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills.  I know... it's been on forever.  And sad but true, I admit to this new guilty pleasure.  I really don't watch TV & actually feel like I'm just wasting my money by paying for cable, but this show truly entertains me.  I've said many times in the past that there should be a Real Housewives of O'Fallon.  Doesn't matter how much or how little money you have... put a bunch of women together & it's either hilarious or downright dirty.  And I find it all highly amusing.

Here's just some of the epic quotes that are worth remembering & repeating.  And oh yes... I'll do my best to throw some of these into a conversation at some point... LOL

 

 

 

The first time I saw Yolanda she was rocking a side ponytail and pumps. I thought this bitch is fierce.

 

You're a slut pig.

 

I'm happy to see Adrienne. She's running around with a little bush between her legs. That little bush being Jacob Busch her new boyfriend.

 

Who cares whether Erika is wearing underwear or not?

 Who gives a shit? I'm not wearing panties.

 

My mom says as long as people are talking about you don't care what they're saying.

 

I have given my husband a lot of gifts.  But the greatest gift I've ever given him is our children.  Oh and a blow job in the car... I suppose we can say that.

 

Can we get a bottle of rosé out here? And a funnel.

 

I'm gonna give you a little piece of advice in front of everyone.  The more you talk about shit, the worse it gets.

 

I'm like a cockroach.  You can't get rid of me.

 

If you've got no undies on and you've got a short dress... cross your legs. 

 

Ken would have to give me a hall pass for George Clooney. It’s George bloody Clooney for God’s sake and he’s got a sense of humor which he would probably need when I took my clothes off.

 

We started off on the right foot and I'm happy about that, but my other foot will kick you in the ass if you come after my girl, Kyle, again.

 

It's expensive to be me, looking this good don't come for free... that's definitely true.

 

I went to put her (Dorit) name in my phone and it came out Doritos.

 

It's the Crotch Chronicles.

No it's Snatch Chat. 

 

This bitch is easy to deal with unlike some of the others in my life

 

How about a little Neosporin? Get a grip.

 

My hair is iconic, and don't you fucking forget it.

 

Where is my husband?

Oh I just saw him over there in the corner with his head up some woman's skirt.

 

Her closet... it could eat my closet for breakfast.

 

I don't throw wine glasses, I throw wine.

 

 You’re not wanted.
 Excuse me, neither are you. Ask your husband.

 

Now may be a good time to keep those big lips closed.

 

Dutch boys don't kiss and tell.
This one will. He'll squeal like a little piglet.

 

It's like I've walked into an insane asylum with these women in really nice shoes and purses.

 

You need to change your Depends because you're so full of shit.

 

Do you think you'd want to go to lunch tomorrow?
Why would I want to do that?

 

If anything goes wrong at the party, my plan is to be completed wasted so that I don't know what's happening because if you don't hear it and you don't see it then it didn't happen…like blackout sex.

 

She's had a few drinks and now she's going to the dark side.

 

I'll take pampering any way can get it. I'm a pamper whore.

 

Not only get in line with all the ladies... get in line with all the men.  Everyone wants Harry Hamlin.

 

When sisters collide I don't know what the fuck to do.

 

I just can not sit back and watch the bullshit train go by.

 

I don't know what the ladies are doing but I'm pretty sure it's not Andre.

 

I am sorry. I am not putting my mouth on a straw where Brandi's mouth has been. Would you?

 

I cannot have a breakdown right now.  I have too much to do. 

 

To loyalty and not talking shit behind each other's backs.

 

And cheers to that...

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"Some people try but they can't find the magic... others get down on their knees and they pray..."

 

It's been forever & a day since I last blogged.  And to be perfectly honest, I'd decided that one of my goals for 2017 was to be more consistent with it once again, along with more scrapbooking.  Both are therapeutic & feed my soul in a way that only Zumba equals in comparison.

Although thank goodness for Zumba, because scrapbooking is a totally sedentary activity & I would bust out of my pants if all I did was sit around with paper & glue all day. 

So anyway, with my good intentions for the start of the year, I had even started typing up a post recapping my 2016... with everything that happened with my job, all the places I was fortunate enough to travel to, etc. 

But there the half-typed post sits, unfinished.  And let's don't even mention that not one one scrapbook page has even been started. 

I did, however, just buy a new scrapbooking collection kit titled "She Blooms" because I was like.... "Are you kitten me right meow?  Perfection!"

And then Bryn shot the wind right out of my sails & said, "Face it, Mom.  You're not going to do any scrapbooking & you know it." 

That kid.  

And NOW I have to prove her wrong. 

 

 

 

But anyway, just like with exercise & goals for better health... I say start where you are, not where you want to be.  And today I read something in the Daily Motivator email that I thought was worth sharing. 

 

 

The person you become, the life you live, the results you get are a direct result of the way you spend your time. How do you intend to spend your time today?

Every person alive will have the same number of hours in this day. Yet the value obtained in those hours will vary remarkably.

You have time, and with it, opportunity. Decide right now to put it to its highest use.

As you travel through the day, remind yourself that each moment makes a difference. The way you live it determines what that difference will be.

You know that the difference between speeding forward and standing still is made in each moment. As the moments arrive, keep reminding yourself of their opportunity.

A little extra effort, each time you get the chance, leads to a lot of extra richness in your life. The day has arrived, and you know what to do.

 

-Ralph Marston

 

So there you have it. 

 

How are you spending your time so far this year? 

Have you already fallen back into old comfort zones & habits? 

Are you keeping up with new goals?

Are you doing things that feed your soul?

Are you allowing people or situations to deplete you in mind & body? 

Are you waiting for the right time to get started? 

Are you allowing the weather to make choices for you? 

Are you "shining" in your best light possible? 

 

I hope this year is full of amazing things for you.  I hope you remember that whether you're a mom, you work outside the house, you're a student, or retired... we all have the same number of hours in each day.  Simply taking 30 minutes out of 24 hours for yourself, is not selfish.  We all have much more to give, when we start with our own self-care.

Like the old saying goes... if mama ain't happy, ain't nobody happy. 

 

So shine on, beautiful girls, shine on...  ♥

 

 

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Yo ho... yo HO...

 

 

At the ripe old age of 48 and with my 30th high school reunion occurring recently... I have a few thoughts on age & maturity. 

 

I've had moments of looking around wondering if perhaps I've just been swimming in a fish bowl like Dory ("just keep swimming") and maybe I'm really still IN high school?

 

But then I remember... no... I gave birth 15 years ago & now I have a high school student daughter, so I can't possibly still be in high school.

 

With age doesn't necessarily mean maturity.  Or less senseless drama.  With age, DOES mean your cheer skirt no longer fits.  Ahem.

I tell this to Bryn often... because I don't want her to think that when she leaves high school, the drama magically ends with it.   You just have to try not to associate yourself with it as much as possible.

 

Personally I choose to ignore senselessness.  And I think silence speaks much louder than words ever can.  

I got along with everyone in high school... & hung out with all "groups" of people.   I was one of those dorks who was involved with as much as possible... a cheerleader, involved in clubs, playing the flute in marching band, a couple tight lifelong friends... annnnnd my boyfriend was the lead singer in a band & would eventually have longer hair than me.  We probably didn't look like we matched up together, but that's how I typically roll... even still.  Oh.... you don't think I should hang with this person? Let me hang with them even MORE then!

I think I still get along with everyone.  And still have a lot of good friends, with a small circle of tight ones.  Still a dork as well... what can I say?

 

I've often said I have the sense of humor of a 12-yr old boy.  If we've met, you've probably already figured this out. 

For years, my mom would wonder why we all had to talk about farts or something inappropriate at the dinner table.  By this point she's basically just caved & laughs because it really never ends no matter how old we all get.

 

But I figure if some can act as if they're still in high school, I should certainly be able to act like I'm still in middle school even if I am pushing 50.  I honestly don't remember any drama in those years so I'm takin' it all the way back to the old skool. 

 

 

One of the many things in life that can leave me laughing for days... is making stupid videos or photos... especially if props or costumes are involved. 

 

Bryn has made many videos & done many stupid things with me in the past, but the other night told me she'd rather clean her room and her bathroom AND make her bed than make a Dubsmash video with me.  

SO RUDE.

And coincidentally, none of the above happened either.  Hmmm...

 

So if your friend, who totally gets this about you & not only encourages it but enables it by saying... hey, we should dress up like pirates & make a video for a mutual friend's birthday... you run with it AND have all the apps to make it work.  I mean... it just so happens that I can get creative, yo.

I mean... arrrrrrr.

And there is a back story to the pirate theme because it had come up in convo after a Fiesta-themed impromptu shindig after class we had a few months earlier.  I mean who doesn't love an impromptu theme when you've just finished sweating your ass off in class? 

Or wait, that was just me as usual.  The other 3 looked nice. 

I totally prefer to rock a sombrero with a Zumba shirt.  Give me chips + guacamole and I'm up for anything.

 

 

Anyway... I'm usually pretty good at keeping a straight face to do this kind of stuff, but my mustache kept falling off so it was a rocky start but then we got our act together.

Cheap Dollar Store mustache.  What did I expect anyway? 

 

 

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And that kind of got me on a Dubsmash roll, so then there's this. 

And I'd just like to forewarn you that if you're easily offended, you shouldn't watch.  Just go right back to your Facebook feed & tune into political posts. 

 

This one is heavy on Kardashian madness. 

I mean that show is like a trainwreck that you can't seem to pull away from watching. 

Not that I watch them regularly but I have found myself laying in bed, doing a marathon of shows I can't seem to turn off. 

 

But again... it's not me.  It's them.  Their words. 

I only choose to possibly offend people on my blog.  Not on Facebook. 

And we all know I'm easily amused.

 

 

Ok then... speaking of costumes, props & all things stupid... it's almost Halloween so you should probably dress up for my classes if you're local!

Friday will be especially FUN... with Zumba in the morning & then even more fun that evening!  Details to follow soon!

 

And well.... we should probably do something fun on Sunday & Monday as well!   YAY!!

 

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"While I was feeling such a wreck, I thought of losing my mind... "

 

Wellll.... hellloooo there.  Long time, no post.

 

Question:  Do you have writer's block, Deana? 

Me:  Oh no, I have plenty to say.  I probably just shouldn't say all of it.  

 

In other news though... much has been going on, as always, since I last blogged. 

• Much Zumba & Body Pump.  Even a road-trip with a bestie to do more Zumba.  Because can one ever really do too much Zumba?  I think not.
• Bryn is still rockin' it in volleyball.  I LOVE to watch that girl play. 
• I went to Cabo with my parents & my sister last month... just the 4 of us.  It was amazing.  I should blog about that too.  Sheesh, I'm behind.
• Threw an 80's party for a good friend who turned 50.  Oh and 50 is the new 30, by the way, since I'm inching closer to it. 
• And lots more... like lunches & good times after classes with friends.  Thank you God for friends.  They are such a huge blessing in my life & what keeps me sane & laughing.  

 

I came across this list the other day about things we can control & thought I'd share.  There really is very little in life we actually CAN control.  Like the following, for instance...

 

1. Your beliefs
2. Your attitude
3. Your thoughts
4. Your perspective
5. How honest you are
6. Who your friends are
7. What books you read
8. How often you exercise
9. The type of food you eat
10. How many risks you take
11. How you interpret situations
12. How kind you are to others
13. How kind you are to yourself
14. How often you say "I love you"
15. How often you say "thank you"
16. How you express your feelings
17. Whether or not you ask for help
18. How often you practice gratitude
19. How many times you smile today
20. The amount of effort you put forth
21. How you spend/invest your money
22. How much time you spend worrying
23. How often you think about your past
24. Whether or not you judge other people
25. Whether or not you try again after a setback
26. How much you appreciate the things you have

 

And then there's THIS.  These talented young girls with voices who gave me goose bumps.  And the sweetest song ever about friends.  And mine really are the BEST...

 

Happy Hump Day, or as I like to call it... PUMP DAY since I'm off to teach Body Pump this morning & then Zumba tonight!  Good times...

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"Rumors are usually nothing more than what jealous people wished were true of you... "

 

Looking forward to a fun weekend ahead involving the opportunity to dance on stage along with some of my awesome fellow Zumba instructors & Francesca Maria leading the way!

 

It will be a fun 90-minute Zumba Master Class like no other & a great workout too!! 

I hope to see lots of friends there dancing with us!  Please join us if you can!!

 

If you'd like to see the choreography we'll be doing while Francesca Maria is performing, you can check out her youtube videos below!

Some of the videos even have a break-down of the choreography at the beginning before they put the whole routine to music. 

 

I've been doing Popee in class for the last several weeks & also did Dale Dale a few weeks ago with another instructor friend who will be dancing that day alongside me!  Good times!

 

Hope to see you on Saturday at The Fitness Fuzion, where I teach Zumba & BodyPump several days a week!

Huge dance floor, disco lights & loud music... it's a pretty amazing place to get yo' dance on!  I LOVE IT!!

 

 

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"I can feel your eyes on me... keep on watchin'... "

 

Saw this image the other day & thought... EXACTLY.  We all walk around thinking everyone else has their lives together & that we're the only one who hasn't figured it all out... and the truth is NO ONE really has their life perfectly "TOGETHER."

And if they say everything is perfect, they're likely not telling the whole truth. 

 

In fact I think we'd all probably be surprised on any given day to be a fly on the wall in someone's everyday life behind closed doors. 

Who they are outside of the public eye... outside of other's judgements & opinions of who they are. 

 

Maybe parts of our lives are perfectly together.  Maybe our job is great?  But it's likely that while one area of life flourishes... another area is likely lacking attention & isn't quite "perfect."

 

So while yes, I do have this blog that's been around for over 8 years... and I have shared a lot of myself personally on here, I really don't put my whole self & life out there.   I figure if there's ever a Real Housewives of O'Fallon reality show & I'm on it getting paid to make an ass of myself... then yes, I'll put my whole life out there. 

Until then, it's just bits & pieces. 

Mostly Zumba pieces... which is crazy enough.  LOL

 

But probably my most "real" self blog post was posted several months ago and I barely typed one word.  It was almost all images that depict some of the craziness in my brain... things I found funny, sarcastic, in bad taste, etc... but that's ME on any given day.  Those that know me well can vouch for that.  That post can be found here & it's amusing enough to me that I'm repeating it.  

And I had a horrendous migraine that day I posted it, so it made me feel better in a twisted kind of way. 

Strangely enough I had included a quote from Prince lyrics on there & shortly after that passed away & everyone was quoting him.  Sad.

 

And speaking of my brain on any given day... most days it's filled with music & choreography. 

And I just added 2 new songs in Zumba this week but I'm getting ready to add one more tomorrow.    

3 is a little much, but what the heck.

I did have some weeks in the past couple months where I didn't add anything new at all though, so I guess I'm making up for lost time. 

Or maybe it was lost brain cells. 

Or lack of inspiration.

Or time. 

Or let's face it, other things in life took precedence over Zumba lately.

I know, right.  Who knew it was possible??

 

Anywayyyyyy... I am OBSESSED with this song.  Just heard it yesterday & it's going on the playlist tomorrow.  Although I'm still reworking a couple moves that seemed awesome in my head while car-dancing, but in reality... not so much. 

 Just need to figure out what I'm removing now... LOL

 

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Pure, authentic life & love are what matter...

 

Saw this first thing in my email this morning & it really spoke to my heart today so I thought I'd share. 

Enjoy your weekend.  Make some fun memories that will leave you smiling by Monday... XOXO

 

 

Quiet your thoughts now, take a slow, deep breath and feel life itself.

Just feel, without the need to label, the essence that is you.

Allow yourself to feel love for all you love.

Allow your vision of life at its best to fill your awareness.

Stay here a moment, and remind yourself, this is what's important.

Pure, authentic life and love are what matter.

Nothing can take the best of you away from you. Through pain, loss, achievement, joy, ups and downs, you still can love all that you love.

In any situation, you can give of yourself to life.

You can always make a difference, you can always matter, you can always love.

Remind yourself of the good, unique power that is your own life.

Remind yourself now to point that power in a worthy, meaningful direction.

 

-Ralph Marston

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"When you are fishing for yourself in the ocean...but you don't know that it's a cage that you're locked in... "

 

Many thoughts on my mind right now.

 

Life is a continuous process of getting to where we want to be... but trying to keep in mind that we are exactly where we need to be.  With age comes wisdom, but I sure wish age brought more patience too.  Or at least a neck brace because I sure do shake my head a lot lately.  LOL

I had someone recently ask me what I do for fun outside my job. 

I mean duh?  Working out isn't fun?  LOL

But is it weird that sometimes I like to just do nothing at all... like all by myself?  

Because after thinking about that question for a second, my response was that my job is so much fun that I feel like I get to go to a party with my friends every time I teach... especially in Zumba.  So when I'm not teaching, I'm almost happy to just have quiet time. 

Which could explain why if you're my friend & don't see me much, it's likely because I spend the most time & energy with the people who are in my classes.  

And then I need down-time.

And time with my daughter. 

And her crazy schedule.

And time to work on my classes.  Because let's face it.  I spend more time working outside of class than I actually spend in class. 

And basically I just need time to sit on my ass & not move a muscle.  Or say a word.  The mic is off my head.  LOL

I also decided this would be a good time to do another 10-day cleanse with all the summertime madness. On day #3 so far.  Care to join me?  Doesn't take much effort, but the result is usually more energy, clearer skin & likely shedding some weight/bloat.... for me anyway.  Win-win. 

 

I'm also looking SO forward to a trip to Cabo with just my sister, my mom & my dad next month.  I don't even know the last time it was just us.  I would say it was definitely when my other sister Kaysy was still alive... pre-kids & spouses.  I'd say 25 years ago probably. 

It will be nothing but laughs with those 3 though.  Cannot wait. 

Bryn is lucky enough to be with them & her cousin right now.  They just left Denver, where my sister lives, and arrived in Park City, UT last night, where my parents have a condo.  I've been following along on their adventures with pictures posted on Facebook, pictures she's Snapchatted or texted me & LOVED that Bryn tweeted the other day...

"I laugh more with my family than anyone else I know." 

It is so true.  Thank God for a funny family.  We put the FUN in dysFUNctional I assure you. 

And look at them.  They are all laughing, in spite of how cold the water was & how cool the weather outside was.  Not sure who the other couple stuck in the boat is, but I'm sure they're laughing at my family! 

 

Oh & did I mention I recently found out I have an Epigastric Hernia?  This annoying cyst-looking bump I've developed on my abdomen over the past 1-2 years isn't a cyst at all.  And according to the Google definition, it usually develops due to obesity or pregnancy.  Since neither applies... I guess I'm just the odd duck.  With the frickin luck.  And even though I'm vain & hate seeing it, I'm not getting it removed until it causes pain... because I'm not taking 2 weeks off work to let it heal after surgery until I absolutely have to.  Priorities! 

Gotta love looking up definitions on Google.  Very enlightening & entertaining! 

One of my friends will get what that means anyway.

 

 

Other thoughts on my mind have nothing to do with health/fitness... just people & life.

Like my ability to trust easily.  Probably too easily.

Never too old to learn lessons.

This also involves being out a lot of money from someone who never finished work at my house.

Generally speaking, I pretty much assume people are all just as cool & trustworthy as I am. 

And they just aren't.

Lying REALLLLLY irritates me.  Grow some balls.  Male or female.  Seriously.

Their karma though.  Not mine.

 

But here's another thought on my mind. 

Kindred spirits. 

Like-minded souls.

 

This industry I've been lucky enough to be part of over the years has taught me many things. 

Some good.   

Some... learning experiences.  Refer back to the above...  never too old to learn lessons.

 

I will forever remember the cheerleaders though.  The true strong women of this world. 

The women who aren't in-it-to-win-it... but who use their life & gifts to encourage, strengthen, uplift.

 

I will forever remember the stories I hear from the people this industry continues to bring into my life day after day.

We ALL have a story.  A story we continue to write every day.

I'm very proud to be part of an industry geared to helping others achieve a healthier & happier life.

I do not take that role lightly.

In fact, I'm honored to be part of anyone's journey, ESPECIALLY if it involves fitness or changing their life for the better.

 

This is not a job I do just for the money.  And while I do have bills to pay, I don't take on just any opportunity that comes my way.  I've graciously declined several over the years that didn't feel right at the time. 

In fact.... that reminds me of someone talking me out of taking a job.  A story for another day, I suppose.

Always listen to your gut, not someone else's voice. 

 

Like anyone else who teaches for a living though... school or otherwise... you do it because you LOVE it.  Not because you're going to get rich doing it.  In fact, it probably won't pay all your bills, no matter how many classes you beat your body up for.

If it's what you're meant to do... it's just under your skin though.  You can't help it.

It's where you feel the most YOU.

Where you can make a difference in someone else's life, not just your own. 

 

In fact, that just gave me an idea on a post about what to expect if you decide to become an instructor because I have quite a few friends heading down that path soon!

 

Every once in awhile I see a photo that gives me goose bumps.   

And this one screams JOY.  It was a special night I'll never forget. 

These are just some of the people I know, that you want in your corner.

Total cheerleaders.  True strength & LOVE for what they do. 

And they are good at it.  REALLY good at it. 

They are some of the people you want in your journey. 

 

And I am so very thankful that are part of my journey and my story. 

My story that continues to be written every single day.

 

I am, in fact, the author of my story.

As are YOU the author of your story.   So go ahead... make it a page-turner...

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Hey soul sister...

 

I love my 2 God-given sisters so much.  So incredibly blessed at the closeness we share(d)... since just being sisters by blood doesn't guarantee you're actually friends who really love being in each others company.  

I may have had a couple "soul sisters" prior to my own sister passing away... and she was definitely a best friend.... but it wasn't until after she passed that I truly believed she was bringing more "sisters" into my life. 

 

Yes... open hearts & similar interests attract like-minded awesome people. 

And it takes being a good friend, to have good friends. 

But I have to wonder if there's not some other force involved... like my sister's guidance for what I need.  For WHO I need.  

Some soul sisters play a role in a chapter of your life.  

Some are there calling, texting & inviting when they really don't have to, but they're just cool like that.  And you haven't even known them that long.  It's just that there's an instant connection.  So thankful.

 

We all have points in our life where we go through big changes or traumatic events... whether in careers, marriage, death, children... it's a turning point. 

It means a lot to be able to be there for a friend going through what life brings them.  To help someone mend a broken spirit or to be the encouragement they need to take a leap of faith. 

 And it means just as much to have that support returned.      

 

Thankful every single day for all my sisters. 

 

Having a lot of friends in my life is an incredible blessing.  And I have my job to thank for so many of them. 

But having a few I know I can count on, no matter what, means the world to me...

 

 

 

 

 

 

Say cheese...

 

 

Offer the world a smile from your heart today. It's a simple, easy act that upgrades whatever situation you're in.

You look better when you smile, because you are better. A genuine smile pushes away negativity and supercharges your attitude.

Say what you say with a smile on your face, and you exude confidence, enthusiasm and credibility. Spread that smile into the core of your being, and a world of new possibilities suddenly appears in front of you.

Smile when there's a reason, and smile when there's no reason. Smile, and let your smile create its own reasons.

Dare yourself to visualize this day in the most positive, empowering light. Smile with your face, your words, your actions and your attitude.

Give life permission to shower you and all those around you today with goodness and value. Smile, and turn up the brightness in this world.

By Ralph Marston

 

And here's another reason to smile!  You'll receive a FREE White Chocolate Peppermint Meal Replacement Shake sample with EVERY online order right now!  I just received mine this week!  Yum!!  So if there's something you've been thinking about, now is a great time to place any order & you'll receive one too!  Gotta love freebies!  

 

Okie dokie then.... off to teach Zumba!  And I'll be smiling for sure!  TGIF! 

 

No one wants to see a naked mall rat...

 

Yesterday when Bryn left the house at the butt crack of dawn, I was looking out the front door window & watching her walk down the street to the bus stop as I do every morning.  All of a sudden from out of the bushes walks what initially appeared to be a cat (we have one in the neighborhood that likes our yard for some reason)... only at closer glance it was definitely NOT a cat & it was slowly moving toward the front porch.

It was disgusting.  So I started kicking the front door in attempt to make it run far far away.  Not only did it ignore me, it walked into this stupid opening below the front porch step that somehow formed over the years as the foundation settled. 

Like for all I know this disgusting rodent picked our house to hibernate under this winter. 

 

So I was telling Bryn that #1... I'm never going out the frickin front door again.  And #2 it was either a possum, a large mole, a rat or a naked mole rat (a description she loves to use lately & frankly I've never heard of a naked mole rat so I'm not sure where she learned it). 

This lead to her asking Siri to find images of these disgusting animals so I could determine what it was that I saw.

Why does she even need to ask Siri to find this?

Are her fingers broke & unable to type from too much texting? 

 

Anyway... she kept asking Siri for a naked mole rat.  Only her pronunciation of it sounded more like MALL RAT.

 

Siri was not amused. 

Siri apparently doesn't want to look up anything naked, especially a mall rat.

Thank goodness she didn't.   I can't imagine what images we might see... ummm just no. 

 

I was getting aggravated that she couldn't just type it into google after saying it no less than a half dozen times without luck, so I said to her (not realizing Siri was listening to me) "Say mole rat NOT naked!"

 

 

 

OMG.  Seriously?  We were both laughing so hard I had tears in my eyes!

And yes, I agree Siri.  She does need to get a life.  Or at least get off her phone once in awhile.

 

And nope it wasn't a naked mole rat after all, although she did point out that the hair on her legs looks like the hair on it's face. 

Uh... shave much?  

 

 

And by the way... I believe it was a possum. 

 

Disgusting. 

The end. 

 

Oooooo watch me, watch me....

 

 

 

Hadn't planned to post this Dubsmash video Bryn asked me to tie together a few weeks ago (probably so she could send it to her friends & make fun of me), but since I was tagged in a post on Facebook yesterday involving this song I thought I'd go ahead & once again make an ass of myself. 

I may not be good at doing the Whip, but I am good at making an ass of myself!

According to a few responses on that post, I'm apparently NOT the only mom who gets schooled on the proper way to punch your arm & wave.  And also NOT the only mom who gets told not to sing or say certain things. 

Epic fail!

That's another thing I've been told to not say.  So of course I say it a LOT. 

Think I finally got the punch right though after only about 7 tries.  Can't say I'm not a quick learner.  LOL

 

 

Dumb song.  Dumb dance moves. 

I'm sticking with Zumba.

The end. 

"Little mama wanna turn it up... little mama wanna burn it up..."

 

Typical convo... this time after leaving the dentist office...

 

Bryn:  Can we go to the outlet mall?

Me:  The outlet mall??  What?  No.  We're just going to Target.

Bryn:  Can we go to the regular mall then? 

Me:  No.  Just Target today.

Bryn:  Can we go to The Meadows?

Me:  Ummm starts with N, ends with O.

 

Bryn starts changing the radio station.

 

Me: Oh... not that song again.  They play that song all the time, I'm sick of it. 

Bryn changes the station.

Me:  Hey can you just plug my phone in please so I can listen to that Pitbull song again?  I think I came up with some moves that might work.

Bryn:  No.  I finally got that song out of my head, I'm not listening to it again. 

Me:  Seriously.  Just one more time while I'm thinking about it.  I just want to hear if it will work with these moves I'm thinking of.

Bryn:  No.  I had that song stuck in my head all night long.  I could barely fall asleep.

I start laughing hysterically.

Me:  Just one more time.  That's all, I promise.

Bryn:  Ok.  You can play your Pitbull song if I can go to the mall.

Me:  Nevermind.

 

And that is how we roll.  ALL.  THE.  TIME.   

 

Maybe we should go back to car dancing instead.  If only she weren't away at camp AGAIN...

 

 

Does Barry Manilow know that you raid his wardrobe?

 

 

Just kicked up my stupid video skillz a few notches with a free Pick of the Week app from Starbucks.  Been wondering how I could tie a bunch of Dubsmash videos together & was finally able to do it.

What can I say except I'm easily entertained.  And thankfully Bryn is too.

Don't recall why we downloaded the Dubsmash app a few weeks ago on the night of her birthday after I got home from teaching class, but it did provide a few laughs.  Bet we played on that stupid thing for at least an hour.  In fact the last clip of this entire video "Go girlfriend, it's your birthday" was the very first one we recorded that night & then it spiraled out of control the next few nights after that... which explains why I look like a sweaty mess in most of the clips.

Because, well, I teach most nights of the week.  And it makes perfect sense to come home from class & make videos... or ummm not.  

It would probably be more shocking if I didn't look like a sweaty mess, since I feel like I look like that all the time.  It always makes me laugh when people are amazed to see me with hair & makeup. 

Yes... sometimes I actually take off my hat & take a shower...

 

 

 

Okie dokie then.  It's Monday morning & I'm off to dance.

One of these days I need to post some scrapbook pages.  I have quite a few...

 

 

"But in the long run... there's still time to change the road you're on... and it makes me wonder..."

 

The past 30 days since I last posted can be summed up with more dumb hashtags...

• When one door closes, another door opens. #veryblessed
• Snow blows.  #nostoppingazumbathonthough
• Bangs. #stillverydifferent
• Job offers.  #willworkforshoes
• Migraines.  #savethedramaforyomama
• A peel... with another scheduled in 2 weeks. #spendingallmyshoemoneyatthespa
• Group private messages on Facebook that kept me sane.  #peemypantslaughing #iheartmemes
• LOTS of volleyball. #netforce
• LOTS of Zumba.  #evenmorehappeningnextmonth
• And BODYPUMP too.  #wegotguns
• Road trip to Nashville for volleyball. #hoursofdrivinginafrickinicestorm #stillveryfunthough
• Some scrapbooking.  #sometimesihideinmycraftroom
• A movie, airline bottles & obnoxious friends.  #fiftyshadesbaby
• Lucky to have besties since childhood. #yearsdomatter
• Not all massages are created equal.  #stillinmuchneedofdeeptissue #wheresmyboyaaron
• Excuses are so last year. #theydontburncalorieseither
• Spring Break staycations can be fun. #wevetraveledtheworldenoughfornow
• Drive-thru carwashes are very different now than when I grew up.  The attendants run for cover when they see me coming.  #thankgoodnessforbackseatdrivers
• Shopping with Bryn #whydoionlyfindmoreworkoutclothes
• A kidnapping in my neighborhood & thank GOD they found her.  #sicksadverydisturbing
• My sister is one of the coolest people I know.  BOTH of my sisters.  #wemissher #thirteenyears
• And heard the best cover of Stairway To Heaven ever in spin class.  #evenrobertplantcried #heartrocks #thanksfrances

 

Have an awesome almost-first-day-of-Spring week, everyone!  Let's hope this weather sticks around...

"TRUST is a fragile thing. Easy to break... easy to lose... & hard to ever get back..."

 

February is a memorable month for a few reasons. 

 

 Yesterday marked 7 years since my first post on this silly blog.  7 YEARS... 

 

 

Why I started it I don't know.  I think because it was a standard thing in the scrapbooking world & if you wanted to be a bigger part of that world, you had to have a blog.

And here's my 2nd post (the next day)... you can see how much younger Bryn was.  She was 5 years old to be exact...

 

 Especially compared to how tall she is now.... as I posted in my last blog post a few days ago... 

 

 

And although I don't post as much these days as I used to (& have questioned if I should even still have it)... a lot transpired in the last 7 years because of this blog.

• I did design work for 2 manufacturers...

• My cards & scrapbook pages have been in major publications & books...

 

• A memorable trip to Chicago for the Craft & Hobby Association trade show in 2010 where I got to meet some of the cool people I designed for & with... and also see some of my work on display...

 

• My work has been pinned by others on Pinterest....

 

 

And no, I don't know why that guy with the abs comes up under a search for my name. But if Pinterest thinks he should be associated with me, who am I to argue?

It's all kind of crazy.  But it's a hobby I adore, so it's been a labor of LOVE. 

And NOW well... I'm a Zumba & BODYPUMP instructor that's a bit distracted when it comes to the whole paper crafting world.

 

Although I have finished about 10 new pages recently.  I've just been too lazy to photograph & post them...

 

 

Which brings up another reason why February is memorable.  Today (President's Day) marks exactly 3 years since my first Monday Zumba class (now Cardio Dance Funk) at the YMCA... AND exactly 2 years since my awesome friend asked me to be her 2-3 month sub at Brickhouse Cardio, while she was on the mend with her broken foot.  And what I thought was going to be just a couple months there, turned into a couple years... a huge blessing in my life. 

So yep.... I kinda LOVE President's Day.  It's been the start of some AMAZING memories & friendships for me...

 

 

Gotta love all the crazy Brickhouse fun memories.  Could not possibly love these people more than I do...

Happy President's Day & happy first big snow day of the year!