A couple of links I don't want to forget...
The Painted Hive - an awesome Starburt Twig Wreath
Someday Crafts - where the writer will get to this craft someday (LOVE THE PREMISE!)
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Christmas Storage
Q & A from Ali Edwards Blog: You often write about storing your holiday-stuff all together. That means not only decoration but also albums, books and much more. I’m a little curious how your store all these things. In boxes labeled and with a list maybe? And another question came to my mind: do you toss away and sort out things when unpacking the holiday boxes? Or how do you manage keeping the amount of holiday stuff manageable?
AE & my agreements: I’m a big fan of tubs. Ali Edwards has these holiday tubs (and everything you see in the photo above) is stored in her garage. Everything else holiday goes into these tubs at the end of December: movies, ornaments, December Daily albums, Christmas books and other decorations – it all comes back out again the following December. I don’t have any lists to go along with these tubs – just a label on the outside that says “Xmas.”
In addition to putting it all away, I’m also a big fan of only having things that we really love. Over the years we’ve collected things that are just extra – extra decorations, etc that I’m not choosing to pull out of the tubs for one reason or another. This year one of my goals as I pull stuff out of the tubs is to have a box on hand for donations. I’ve attempted to do that at the end of the season before but usually by then I’m so over the stuff that I just end up putting it all away in the tubs (even the things that we might not really love and enjoy).
I would LOVE TO have these!! Ornament Storage Boxes from Amazon (one stacked on top of the other on the right side of the photo). They are pricey but they would be really nice and secure and sturdy OR something like them. My plan would be for one to be for Ian and one will be for Mark & I’s ornaments.
I really don’t want any more than this amount of tubs (4 tubs + the 2 ornament boxes).
This is really a transition year for us in terms of decorations. I’m taking it slowly as I pull out each thing and thinking more about where (and if) I want to have it here in our new place.
This is really a transition year for us in terms of decorations. I’m taking it slowly as I pull out each thing and thinking more about where (and if) I want to have it here in our new place.
Do you have a holiday storage system? Any favorite tips to share?
What I am Telling Myself Now...
* This winter I WILL stay active (active winter plan)
* This winter I WILL not schedule any un-needed or un-wanted activities
* This winter I WILL NOT be a glutton and overeat on foods that I don't have that often (i.e. tapioca pudding, pumpkin pie, pie in general, truffles, candy canes, sugar cookies, fudge, cheesecake, pumkpin anything, sweet potato anything)
Plan Ahead for an Active Winter Season
by American Running Association
Check your gear. Now is the time to inspect your shoes; don't stop at checking for wear, but prod, poke, and twist to be sure they are not becoming unstable. Shoe materials, such as heelcounters, can begin to break down before you can actually see anything wrong.
Check your clothes to make sure they will still fit when you need them.
Waistbands losing their elasticity? Any shirts that have shrunk enough to be a bit tight? Any socks that stay stiff even after laundering? Put them on the inactive list before they cause problems. Is your watchband cracking? Replace it now before it snaps and flies off during a workout.
Even though you want to be less active physically, you can still be involved with your favorite sport. Volunteer to help out at a race or on one of the committees that make your sport possible. If you have only a few hours on odd occasions, remember many events begin with something as simple as stuffing envelopes, and somebody has to do it. These activities will keep you in touch with other folks who have the same interests as you have.
Choose one or two goals for the coming year.
If you compete, now is the time to browse the coming year's race calendar. Setting valuable objectives is both science and art. There is science in planning the execution, but making your goals achievable but challenging, sustainable but fresh and interesting is an art that takes constant practice.
Make a list of experiments to try when spring comes round again. There are suggestions you've read about that could make you fitter, faster, and stronger. Have you tried carbohydrate supplements during training, or hill workouts for leg strength? How about trying bike intervals instead of track intervals to reduce wear and tear on your legs and feet? Write down your list and then set priorities to try things one at a time, because if you make more than one change and you improve, you won't know what did the trick.
How about putting a little more adventure into your life by trying something new; maybe combine something different with a vacation. Running, cycling, and weight training may be the foundation of your activities, but how would you shape up and enjoy a completely new experience, such as rock climbing, or white water canoeing? Try half a dozen tennis lessons, or golf lessons. You may have an aptitude that you haven't yet discovered. You won't know if you don't try.
Catch up on your reading.
If you have a pile of magazines and newsletters, and a few self-improvement books waiting to be read, now's the time. If you don't catch up now you never will, because when the days grow longer and the sun climbs higher you will have a choice between reading about it and going out to do it; which will you choose?
Don't forget your head.
You spend time reading workout schedules, exercise routines, and all that physical stuff. This is a good time to soak up a little philosophy and psychology. Exercise, fitness, and sports and athletic competition carry over into the rest of your life, because all activities, physical and mental, take motivation, goal setting, planning, dedication, and a desire to do your best as a route to self-esteem. George Sheehan was the master of relating the thoughts of the great thinkers and writers to sports, especially running. Fitness and performance are worthwhile as far as physical health benefits are concerned, but their greatest value is in helping us to be better people, so that we develop the skills that really matter: relationships, love, family, and friends. Winter is a good time to browse good books and give your mind some workouts.
* This winter I WILL not schedule any un-needed or un-wanted activities
* This winter I WILL NOT be a glutton and overeat on foods that I don't have that often (i.e. tapioca pudding, pumpkin pie, pie in general, truffles, candy canes, sugar cookies, fudge, cheesecake, pumkpin anything, sweet potato anything)
Plan Ahead for an Active Winter Season
by American Running Association
Check your gear. Now is the time to inspect your shoes; don't stop at checking for wear, but prod, poke, and twist to be sure they are not becoming unstable. Shoe materials, such as heelcounters, can begin to break down before you can actually see anything wrong.
Check your clothes to make sure they will still fit when you need them.
Waistbands losing their elasticity? Any shirts that have shrunk enough to be a bit tight? Any socks that stay stiff even after laundering? Put them on the inactive list before they cause problems. Is your watchband cracking? Replace it now before it snaps and flies off during a workout.
Even though you want to be less active physically, you can still be involved with your favorite sport. Volunteer to help out at a race or on one of the committees that make your sport possible. If you have only a few hours on odd occasions, remember many events begin with something as simple as stuffing envelopes, and somebody has to do it. These activities will keep you in touch with other folks who have the same interests as you have.
Choose one or two goals for the coming year.
For me (Kara) I look at what directions do I want to go...marathon? triathlon? or helping someone else train?
If you compete, now is the time to browse the coming year's race calendar. Setting valuable objectives is both science and art. There is science in planning the execution, but making your goals achievable but challenging, sustainable but fresh and interesting is an art that takes constant practice.
Make a list of experiments to try when spring comes round again. There are suggestions you've read about that could make you fitter, faster, and stronger. Have you tried carbohydrate supplements during training, or hill workouts for leg strength? How about trying bike intervals instead of track intervals to reduce wear and tear on your legs and feet? Write down your list and then set priorities to try things one at a time, because if you make more than one change and you improve, you won't know what did the trick.
How about putting a little more adventure into your life by trying something new; maybe combine something different with a vacation. Running, cycling, and weight training may be the foundation of your activities, but how would you shape up and enjoy a completely new experience, such as rock climbing, or white water canoeing? Try half a dozen tennis lessons, or golf lessons. You may have an aptitude that you haven't yet discovered. You won't know if you don't try.
Catch up on your reading.
If you have a pile of magazines and newsletters, and a few self-improvement books waiting to be read, now's the time. If you don't catch up now you never will, because when the days grow longer and the sun climbs higher you will have a choice between reading about it and going out to do it; which will you choose?
Don't forget your head.
You spend time reading workout schedules, exercise routines, and all that physical stuff. This is a good time to soak up a little philosophy and psychology. Exercise, fitness, and sports and athletic competition carry over into the rest of your life, because all activities, physical and mental, take motivation, goal setting, planning, dedication, and a desire to do your best as a route to self-esteem. George Sheehan was the master of relating the thoughts of the great thinkers and writers to sports, especially running. Fitness and performance are worthwhile as far as physical health benefits are concerned, but their greatest value is in helping us to be better people, so that we develop the skills that really matter: relationships, love, family, and friends. Winter is a good time to browse good books and give your mind some workouts.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Today's Mama Holiday Wish List Meme & Giveaway
Mama’s Holiday Wish List Meme
TodaysMama and GameStop are giving away a sleighful of gifts this holiday season and to enter I’m sharing this meme with you.
1. What is your holiday wish for your family? To be safe and fell Christ most present
2. What is your Christmas morning tradition? We're still working on this one but as of now waking up as usual, fixing my Dad's famous pancakes, and then opening presents.
3. If you could ask Santa for one, completely decadent wish for yourself, what would it be?
The Canon Rebel XS digital SLR camera + Canon EF 75-300mm telephoto zoom lens - salivating...
4. How do you make the holidays special without spending any money?
Listening to Christmas music on Pandora on my computer, and sitting around the lit Christmas tree with no other lights on in the house except for candles - very soothing + time spent playing with Ian now that he will begin to "get" Christmas.
5. What games did you play with your family growing up? We played Euchre until late at night, Agrivation with marbles and Hide'n Go Seek with cousins.
6. What holiday tradition have you carried on from your own childhood? I have carried on purchasing an ornament for my child each year...
7. Where would you go for a Christmas-away-from-home trip? I would totally go oversees to England with family to spend with a missionary couple we know...or Germany. Alas, just some place with laughs...
8. Check out GameStop and tell us, what are the three top items on your GameStop Wish List this year?
1) a Wii
2) Call of Duty (Black Ops) for Wii {for Mark}
3) Wii Sports
TodaysMama and GameStop are giving away a sleighful of gifts this holiday season and to enter I’m sharing this meme with you.
1. What is your holiday wish for your family? To be safe and fell Christ most present
2. What is your Christmas morning tradition? We're still working on this one but as of now waking up as usual, fixing my Dad's famous pancakes, and then opening presents.
3. If you could ask Santa for one, completely decadent wish for yourself, what would it be?
The Canon Rebel XS digital SLR camera + Canon EF 75-300mm telephoto zoom lens - salivating...
4. How do you make the holidays special without spending any money?
Listening to Christmas music on Pandora on my computer, and sitting around the lit Christmas tree with no other lights on in the house except for candles - very soothing + time spent playing with Ian now that he will begin to "get" Christmas.
5. What games did you play with your family growing up? We played Euchre until late at night, Agrivation with marbles and Hide'n Go Seek with cousins.
6. What holiday tradition have you carried on from your own childhood? I have carried on purchasing an ornament for my child each year...
7. Where would you go for a Christmas-away-from-home trip? I would totally go oversees to England with family to spend with a missionary couple we know...or Germany. Alas, just some place with laughs...
8. Check out GameStop and tell us, what are the three top items on your GameStop Wish List this year?
1) a Wii
2) Call of Duty (Black Ops) for Wii {for Mark}
3) Wii Sports
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Black Friday Plan
Black Friday Shopping PrePlan
We will be in northern Indiana with my folks for Black Friday so I'm forming a plan. At least some of the stores have begun to list their sales which is soooooo nice. I plan to get up really early (leave house by 5-5:30am??) and head to Warsaw &/or South Bend with my dad and probably my mom. Ian and Mark will hang at home.
Places:
Warsaw, Indiana
Mishawaka, Indiana ?
Stores:
* Walmart
* Kohls ?
* Amazon.com
* Barnes & Nobles ?
* Target ?
Items Considered (for self or others):
* Pull-over fleece or Jacket $5 (Walmart)
* Base Camp Fleece Jackets $7 Walmart)
* 2-piece pajamas, sleepwear set $4 (Walmart) toddler
* 7" Digital Picture Frame $29 (Walmart)
* Beautyrest 7-Piece Bedding Set $34.88 (Walmart)
* 10-Piece Black Frame Set $7 (Walmart)
* DVDs for CCJ Superbowl Sunday Prize Drawings $5-$7
* Ian to pick out a Toy for Toys for Tots (excited about this one)
* Farberware Bakeware (we need cookie sheets & 9x9 pans) 50% off @ KOHL'S
* HoMedics Massage Cushion $59 KOHL'S (for me? -- probably not but it's a nice thought)
* The Big 10-Pc Wooden Frame Set $14.99 @ KOHL'S (again for me but probably not)
* Marshmallow Raider (2) $9.99 @ KOHL'S or nephews (shhh...don't tell)
We will be in northern Indiana with my folks for Black Friday so I'm forming a plan. At least some of the stores have begun to list their sales which is soooooo nice. I plan to get up really early (leave house by 5-5:30am??) and head to Warsaw &/or South Bend with my dad and probably my mom. Ian and Mark will hang at home.
Places:
Warsaw, Indiana
Mishawaka, Indiana ?
Stores:
* Walmart
* Kohls ?
* Amazon.com
* Barnes & Nobles ?
* Target ?
Items Considered (for self or others):
* Pull-over fleece or Jacket $5 (Walmart)
* Base Camp Fleece Jackets $7 Walmart)
* 2-piece pajamas, sleepwear set $4 (Walmart) toddler
* 7" Digital Picture Frame $29 (Walmart)
* Beautyrest 7-Piece Bedding Set $34.88 (Walmart)
* 10-Piece Black Frame Set $7 (Walmart)
* DVDs for CCJ Superbowl Sunday Prize Drawings $5-$7
* Ian to pick out a Toy for Toys for Tots (excited about this one)
* Farberware Bakeware (we need cookie sheets & 9x9 pans) 50% off @ KOHL'S
* HoMedics Massage Cushion $59 KOHL'S (for me? -- probably not but it's a nice thought)
* The Big 10-Pc Wooden Frame Set $14.99 @ KOHL'S (again for me but probably not)
* Marshmallow Raider (2) $9.99 @ KOHL'S or nephews (shhh...don't tell)
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Route 66 Half-Marathon
A NEW PERSONAL RECORD: 2:00:55
This was a beautiful morning 64 degrees with a bit of a wind and lots of fun! I was expecting it to be at least 50s or worst 30s. It was a slightly hilly course around neighborhoods and city streets and then branched out into the riverside area which is beautiful, over a couple of bridges where the wind kind of pummeled you and then flats. The worst part was between 10-12 for me though - it was flat (so I could really feel my legs) and there was a wind against us at all times. I lost focus and dropped to a 10:00-10:15 minute mile and that killed my attempt to break 2 hours for the race but I did finish out strong at mile 13 and did as well I could have. It was wonderful and not really painful - more of a mental thing.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
7 Happy Rituals for the Shorter Days of Winter
by Christine Kane
Each year, when we turn the clocks back, I am torn. Me too!
On the one hand, I'm elated to get some extra sleep and "gain" an hour. On the other hand, it's a little sad to know that winter is coming, and the days are getting shorter.
A few years ago, I noticed that I was rolling with the change of season much more gracefully - and without the same dread I had often felt. It was around that time I learned to create rituals in my days. Seasons, after all, show us what our lives are meant to be: dark times, light times, expansion, contraction, and of course... change!
If you are experiencing anxiety or sadness as winter approaches and the days get shorter, I invite you to try one or two of these rituals. Maybe you'll start to look forward to the earlier evenings as you see the mystery and magic of this beautiful season...
1 - Create a Glow
The great thing about darker evenings is that they allow for the perfect candle lighting ritual. Create a sacred space in your home and light candles at dusk or when you get home from work.
Some of my favorite candles are antique medicine bottles I've picked up at various antique stores over the years. I fill them with candle oil and wicks. The glass reflects the flame for even more glow! I'm always on the look out for simple candles and holders. For those that do not know me well - I'm crazy about candles - with Ian though I have cut back on lighting them.
2 - Start a Gratitude Journal
It's the season of Thanksgiving, so why not begin the habit of gratitude now, rather than waiting til the end of the month?
Get a beautiful journal and commit to completing your day with gratitude. Start with a list of five things. Write in as much detail as you can.
We live in such lavish abundance, yet it's so easy to speed through the days without noticing. A gratitude journal will change your life! This can definitely change your life - focusing on what you have rather than what you have not leads you into focusing on God more.
3 - Feed the Birds
Wake up to bird song! One of my favorite rituals is to make sure that the bird feeders are chock full of the best seed possible. Our feeders always have visitors, so we keep a guide to birds near our back door so we can grab it any time we spot a new species. We have regular visits from nuthatches, chickadees, flickers, titmouse, all kinds of woodpeckers, Carolina wrens, bluejays - we've even seen rare birds, like the hooded warbler. Spend some blissful time witnessing the pure joy of our feathered friends! (A great resource for bird-feeders is Wild Birds Unlimited.)
4 - Catch Up on Movies
Winter is a great time to catch up on those movies you missed in the theaters. I keep a list in my iPhone, and any time someone recommends a movie, I take note. That way, when I get to the video store, I have a reference. You can also get great television show season re-runs on Netflix. Mark & I definitely need to do this!
5 - Morning Work-Outs
When the clocks turn back, the mornings get lighter. Why not take advantage and wake up earlier to hit the gym? Start a fitness ritual. Exercise has been proven - over and over again! - to remedy everything from disease to depression. Hire a trainer for a month and learn some new exercises! The fitness habit will lift your mood like nothing else! Indeed I am muchbetter to work out earlier in the day.
6 - Complete a Project
Remember that idea you had for a scrapbook? Or that language learning series you've been meaning to plunge into? Well, now's the time!
Winter is a perfect time to learn a new craft, create something meaningful, and get lost in the joy of a new project. Winter is also the time to go inward and lose yourself in creating. What have you been meaning to create?
7 - Get Out!
Any dog will tell you: Winter is a fabulous time to hike! It's cold. It's crisp. You bundle up in layers of polar fleece. And you get to experience the hidden treasures of a season that most people avoid.
Make it a point to find some trails or paths near your home. Then, commit to bundling up and spending time outdoors each weekend. There's rarely anyone else out - so you get to have acres and acres to yourself. (Though you might bump into me and my dog! It's our favorite hiking season!)
Note: Here's a link to an article I wrote about one more of my favorite winter rituals.
Click below to read it -->
http://www.christinekane.com/blog/banish-sugar-cravings-with-a-new-ritual
Each year, when we turn the clocks back, I am torn. Me too!
On the one hand, I'm elated to get some extra sleep and "gain" an hour. On the other hand, it's a little sad to know that winter is coming, and the days are getting shorter.
A few years ago, I noticed that I was rolling with the change of season much more gracefully - and without the same dread I had often felt. It was around that time I learned to create rituals in my days. Seasons, after all, show us what our lives are meant to be: dark times, light times, expansion, contraction, and of course... change!
If you are experiencing anxiety or sadness as winter approaches and the days get shorter, I invite you to try one or two of these rituals. Maybe you'll start to look forward to the earlier evenings as you see the mystery and magic of this beautiful season...
1 - Create a Glow
The great thing about darker evenings is that they allow for the perfect candle lighting ritual. Create a sacred space in your home and light candles at dusk or when you get home from work.
Some of my favorite candles are antique medicine bottles I've picked up at various antique stores over the years. I fill them with candle oil and wicks. The glass reflects the flame for even more glow! I'm always on the look out for simple candles and holders. For those that do not know me well - I'm crazy about candles - with Ian though I have cut back on lighting them.
2 - Start a Gratitude Journal
It's the season of Thanksgiving, so why not begin the habit of gratitude now, rather than waiting til the end of the month?
Get a beautiful journal and commit to completing your day with gratitude. Start with a list of five things. Write in as much detail as you can.
We live in such lavish abundance, yet it's so easy to speed through the days without noticing. A gratitude journal will change your life! This can definitely change your life - focusing on what you have rather than what you have not leads you into focusing on God more.
3 - Feed the Birds
Wake up to bird song! One of my favorite rituals is to make sure that the bird feeders are chock full of the best seed possible. Our feeders always have visitors, so we keep a guide to birds near our back door so we can grab it any time we spot a new species. We have regular visits from nuthatches, chickadees, flickers, titmouse, all kinds of woodpeckers, Carolina wrens, bluejays - we've even seen rare birds, like the hooded warbler. Spend some blissful time witnessing the pure joy of our feathered friends! (A great resource for bird-feeders is Wild Birds Unlimited.)
4 - Catch Up on Movies
Winter is a great time to catch up on those movies you missed in the theaters. I keep a list in my iPhone, and any time someone recommends a movie, I take note. That way, when I get to the video store, I have a reference. You can also get great television show season re-runs on Netflix. Mark & I definitely need to do this!
5 - Morning Work-Outs
When the clocks turn back, the mornings get lighter. Why not take advantage and wake up earlier to hit the gym? Start a fitness ritual. Exercise has been proven - over and over again! - to remedy everything from disease to depression. Hire a trainer for a month and learn some new exercises! The fitness habit will lift your mood like nothing else! Indeed I am muchbetter to work out earlier in the day.
6 - Complete a Project
Remember that idea you had for a scrapbook? Or that language learning series you've been meaning to plunge into? Well, now's the time!
Winter is a perfect time to learn a new craft, create something meaningful, and get lost in the joy of a new project. Winter is also the time to go inward and lose yourself in creating. What have you been meaning to create?
7 - Get Out!
Any dog will tell you: Winter is a fabulous time to hike! It's cold. It's crisp. You bundle up in layers of polar fleece. And you get to experience the hidden treasures of a season that most people avoid.
Make it a point to find some trails or paths near your home. Then, commit to bundling up and spending time outdoors each weekend. There's rarely anyone else out - so you get to have acres and acres to yourself. (Though you might bump into me and my dog! It's our favorite hiking season!)
Note: Here's a link to an article I wrote about one more of my favorite winter rituals.
Click below to read it -->
http://www.christinekane.com/blog/banish-sugar-cravings-with-a-new-ritual
This is what I do...
“Possibilities”The rock that is an obstacle in the path of one person becomes a stepping stone in the path of another.
Authoring Stories of Resilience: Guidelines from Practice
Description:
Systemic counselors are moving toward collaborative and narrative models of therapy. Clients tell us when we are helpful—if we will listen. Counseling becomes a circular process involving “dialogue” between the counselor and the client, as opposed to “pathologizing monologues.” A counselor stance of “curiosity,” where multiple perspectives are entertained, is replacing explanation and attempts to discover an objective reality apart from the input of the client. Counselors more clearly see themselves as part of the treatment system, and examine their part in constructing the “problem story.” Counselor “use-of-self” becomes important, and distinctions are made between counselor “intentionality” and “willfulness.” How do these ideas look in counseling situations? The distinctions between assessment and treatment become blurred as a circular dance evolves between counselor and client. The treatment context is expanded to include the interactions between members of the “languaged system.” Treatment is conducted as a “conversation.” The counselor gives up the “expert position” and becomes a partner with the client in retrieving resources to construct solutions. Questions gather information, introduce “differences,” and facilitate change. Externalizing of the problem generates space for alternative stories in the present. The client’s presentation tells a story. The story is told and retold so that the client becomes his/her own author-ity, or more involved in the construction of his/her story. Client resources are retrieved and the re-authored story includes elements of resilience: competence, courage, hope, forgiveness, humor, etc.
Authoring Stories of Resilience: Guidelines from Practice
Description:
Systemic counselors are moving toward collaborative and narrative models of therapy. Clients tell us when we are helpful—if we will listen. Counseling becomes a circular process involving “dialogue” between the counselor and the client, as opposed to “pathologizing monologues.” A counselor stance of “curiosity,” where multiple perspectives are entertained, is replacing explanation and attempts to discover an objective reality apart from the input of the client. Counselors more clearly see themselves as part of the treatment system, and examine their part in constructing the “problem story.” Counselor “use-of-self” becomes important, and distinctions are made between counselor “intentionality” and “willfulness.” How do these ideas look in counseling situations? The distinctions between assessment and treatment become blurred as a circular dance evolves between counselor and client. The treatment context is expanded to include the interactions between members of the “languaged system.” Treatment is conducted as a “conversation.” The counselor gives up the “expert position” and becomes a partner with the client in retrieving resources to construct solutions. Questions gather information, introduce “differences,” and facilitate change. Externalizing of the problem generates space for alternative stories in the present. The client’s presentation tells a story. The story is told and retold so that the client becomes his/her own author-ity, or more involved in the construction of his/her story. Client resources are retrieved and the re-authored story includes elements of resilience: competence, courage, hope, forgiveness, humor, etc.
Friday, November 12, 2010
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
kelly rae: learning to be new - another wise letter from jen ...
Since becoming a mama - a whole new world has opened for me although a lot of that world has scared me and I have frankly "bucked" it trying so hard to keep the old identity.
I have realized that, that very action was something that I had needed to do in order to live into this new identity. And now I have found a blog and a person who is speaking what I experienced and even better --- she is having her dear friends guest post for her with words of wisdom and encouragement. NOW THAT IS AWESOME!! Here is one of her friends' posts.
kelly rae: learning to be new - another wise letter from jen ...: "(baby true, five weeks, 10 pounds!) i can barely get on the phone these days, or email for that matter, but i'm learning that quick 5 or ..."
You have Everything You Need Print
I have realized that, that very action was something that I had needed to do in order to live into this new identity. And now I have found a blog and a person who is speaking what I experienced and even better --- she is having her dear friends guest post for her with words of wisdom and encouragement. NOW THAT IS AWESOME!! Here is one of her friends' posts.
kelly rae: learning to be new - another wise letter from jen ...: "(baby true, five weeks, 10 pounds!) i can barely get on the phone these days, or email for that matter, but i'm learning that quick 5 or ..."
You have Everything You Need Print
Monday, November 8, 2010
Inspiration: A FREE Class
This is the FREE class I do every year with Jessica Sprague - not that I finish it but at least it opens my eyes more to creativity and the possibilities! Click here to go there!
Friday, November 5, 2010
Weekend Creative | Advent Action Cards
Weekend Creative Advent Action Cards
Oh I am "all-about" these!! Coming to friends near me :) Well that is if I make the time to do them...
Oh I am "all-about" these!! Coming to friends near me :) Well that is if I make the time to do them...
Thursday, November 4, 2010
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Wednesday, November 3, 2010
A Little Disoriented
Life is disoriented for me...a huge situation involving multiple dilemmas in my counseling world, unending tasks with Social Work jobs, kitties that might still have fleas, arranging my schedule to get 6, 8, 12 miles runs in each week at some point, and figuring out "how is this suppose to work while following God's plan?" How does the cleaning, the playing, the cherishing and the love live in this space?
It doesn't make all that much sense to me - deception, seduction, lying and manipulation besides our humanness coming out which jeopardizes relationships, friendships and families. I realize I have a hard time with people lying to me although I realize that in reality, they are simply telling me one piece of the story or puzzle and choose to leave out the rest for whatever reason. I know that we all do it at some point in time in our lives but it is so hurtful and even possibly harmful if we do it with our closest people.
Those intimate, spirit-filled friendships we have where we are given emotional fuel to battle the day to day stuff in life are so important to me. I could not imagine not having those nor even worse pushing those away or abusing them for my benefit. It is apparent that godly people really can do ungodly things and that none of us are immune. It is just what path or direction we choose that makes all the difference.
I pray to choose the narrow path, to choose the path less travelled and to choose Christ and His direction. I need not be judgmental of others or look down upon them for choosing another path but simply to see them in grace knowing that God has given me grace. I choose to work through healing, forgiving and moving toward joy and seeing the best in others.
It doesn't make all that much sense to me - deception, seduction, lying and manipulation besides our humanness coming out which jeopardizes relationships, friendships and families. I realize I have a hard time with people lying to me although I realize that in reality, they are simply telling me one piece of the story or puzzle and choose to leave out the rest for whatever reason. I know that we all do it at some point in time in our lives but it is so hurtful and even possibly harmful if we do it with our closest people.
Those intimate, spirit-filled friendships we have where we are given emotional fuel to battle the day to day stuff in life are so important to me. I could not imagine not having those nor even worse pushing those away or abusing them for my benefit. It is apparent that godly people really can do ungodly things and that none of us are immune. It is just what path or direction we choose that makes all the difference.
I pray to choose the narrow path, to choose the path less travelled and to choose Christ and His direction. I need not be judgmental of others or look down upon them for choosing another path but simply to see them in grace knowing that God has given me grace. I choose to work through healing, forgiving and moving toward joy and seeing the best in others.
Monday, November 1, 2010
Run Like a Mother (book review) & Rewind that Tape
I'm in a blogging mood -- a couple of articles from IronGirl newsletter stuck out to me. And yes someday...I desire to run an IronMan (2.4 miles swimming, 125 miles biking & 26.2 miles running)...it is a dream. The 3 marathons on my belt were seasons & accomplishments but I want to go the distance - at least once in my life.
Run Like a Mother: How to get Moving and Not Lose Your Family, Job, or Sanity
Is the new book Run Like a Mother: How to Get Moving and Not Lose Your Family, Job, or Sanity on your nightstand (or Kindle) yet? It should be. Unlike clinical, workout-heavy running books, the essays in Run Like a Mother mimic the lively conversations good friends have when they're out on a run: a mix of personal stories; hard-won, helpful advice; and crack-you-up anecdotes that cement a connection that goes well beyond the miles logged that day. Sprinkled throughout the book is advice garnered from more than 150 running moms across the country.
With 26 chapters covering everything from conquering hills to summoning motivation after a sleepless night, from managing cranky husbands to finding the shortest port-a-pottie line before a race, this book enlightens and inspires newbie runners, veteran marathoners, and everyone in between. The book has been getting rave reviews everywhere from Redbook ("Their funny, frank stories and tips convince you that lacing up is one of the best things to do,") to mom-blogs ("This book. These women. How do I even say it? I feel like they stole the words right out of my brain."). The co-authors, Dimity McDowell and Sarah Bowen Shea, both contributing writers at Runner's World, have been-or will be-at our Seattle and Tempe races to sell and sign copies.
In addition, Run Like a Mother is for sale at Amazon.com, bn.com, Borders.com, and bookstores nationwide. To tap into the tribe-vibe, join the chat at www.runlikeamotherbook.com or on Facebook at Run Like a Mother: The Book. And meet Dimity at the Tempe Iron Girl race.
Rewind That Tape
By Amanda Loudin
Before you begin planning next year's season, take a look back.
By this time of year, you have probably marked a period on the end of your season and are taking a well-earned break from any type of hard training (well actually I'm towards the middle/end of my mini-marathon training -- Nov. 13th is my "middle of the season"). Your body and mind are taking some necessary downtime after fighting the rigors of a tough season, but there is no doubt that you have already begun to think ahead to next season. As you begin to plan your goals for 2011, start with a look back at this year.
1. Consider all of the races you did:
Were you more successful at some distances than others? Why?
Which was your favorite race? Which was your least favorite?
Did you race too often, not enough or just the right amount?
Could you have gone harder in some races? Did you blow up in others?
2. Review your training routines:
Did you spend more time on one sport than another?
Did you give yourself enough rest between hard efforts?
Did you strength train? Did you stretch?
Did you neglect any particular area of training?
3. Evaluate your reviews:
With all this information in hand, take a look at your strengths and weaknesses. How can you alter your training next season to focus on the weaker areas? If you didn't enjoy certain races or distances, consider scratching them from next season's agenda. After all, we do this for fun, right?
Figure out the right mix of races for your lifestyle - if you felt overwhelmed by training last season, maybe you need to put fewer races on the schedule in 2011. If you think you can stretch yourself and step up to a longer distance or more racing, play with the calendar and see if you can make it happen.
By keying in on what worked and what didn't, you can develop the right combination of training and racing for your coming year. With the right approach, you can not only become a stronger athlete, but a more satisfied one, too.
Amanda Loudin is a Maryland-based freelance writer, runner, triathlete and certified RRCA running coach. She's completed seven marathons, including Boston, and countless triathlons ranging from sprints to Ironman distance. You can follow her adventures at www.misszippy1.blogspot.com.
Run Like a Mother: How to get Moving and Not Lose Your Family, Job, or Sanity
Is the new book Run Like a Mother: How to Get Moving and Not Lose Your Family, Job, or Sanity on your nightstand (or Kindle) yet? It should be. Unlike clinical, workout-heavy running books, the essays in Run Like a Mother mimic the lively conversations good friends have when they're out on a run: a mix of personal stories; hard-won, helpful advice; and crack-you-up anecdotes that cement a connection that goes well beyond the miles logged that day. Sprinkled throughout the book is advice garnered from more than 150 running moms across the country.
With 26 chapters covering everything from conquering hills to summoning motivation after a sleepless night, from managing cranky husbands to finding the shortest port-a-pottie line before a race, this book enlightens and inspires newbie runners, veteran marathoners, and everyone in between. The book has been getting rave reviews everywhere from Redbook ("Their funny, frank stories and tips convince you that lacing up is one of the best things to do,") to mom-blogs ("This book. These women. How do I even say it? I feel like they stole the words right out of my brain."). The co-authors, Dimity McDowell and Sarah Bowen Shea, both contributing writers at Runner's World, have been-or will be-at our Seattle and Tempe races to sell and sign copies.
In addition, Run Like a Mother is for sale at Amazon.com, bn.com, Borders.com, and bookstores nationwide. To tap into the tribe-vibe, join the chat at www.runlikeamotherbook.com or on Facebook at Run Like a Mother: The Book. And meet Dimity at the Tempe Iron Girl race.
Rewind That Tape
By Amanda Loudin
Before you begin planning next year's season, take a look back.
By this time of year, you have probably marked a period on the end of your season and are taking a well-earned break from any type of hard training (well actually I'm towards the middle/end of my mini-marathon training -- Nov. 13th is my "middle of the season"). Your body and mind are taking some necessary downtime after fighting the rigors of a tough season, but there is no doubt that you have already begun to think ahead to next season. As you begin to plan your goals for 2011, start with a look back at this year.
1. Consider all of the races you did:
Were you more successful at some distances than others? Why?
Which was your favorite race? Which was your least favorite?
Did you race too often, not enough or just the right amount?
Could you have gone harder in some races? Did you blow up in others?
2. Review your training routines:
Did you spend more time on one sport than another?
Did you give yourself enough rest between hard efforts?
Did you strength train? Did you stretch?
Did you neglect any particular area of training?
3. Evaluate your reviews:
With all this information in hand, take a look at your strengths and weaknesses. How can you alter your training next season to focus on the weaker areas? If you didn't enjoy certain races or distances, consider scratching them from next season's agenda. After all, we do this for fun, right?
Figure out the right mix of races for your lifestyle - if you felt overwhelmed by training last season, maybe you need to put fewer races on the schedule in 2011. If you think you can stretch yourself and step up to a longer distance or more racing, play with the calendar and see if you can make it happen.
By keying in on what worked and what didn't, you can develop the right combination of training and racing for your coming year. With the right approach, you can not only become a stronger athlete, but a more satisfied one, too.
Amanda Loudin is a Maryland-based freelance writer, runner, triathlete and certified RRCA running coach. She's completed seven marathons, including Boston, and countless triathlons ranging from sprints to Ironman distance. You can follow her adventures at www.misszippy1.blogspot.com.
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