Today My Name Is....Warrior

Well.....it's been ages...far too long and long past due. Where oh where do I start...

It's December and in the festive spirit and no recent Christmas pictures I will share a Throwback of myself and my girls....this is a few years back but I love it.

Since my last update my oldest daughter graduated grade 9 and looked amazing, truly like Cinderella. She felt like it too and it was an evening to remember. With school ending, spring hockey ended too and she secured herself a job part time at Tim Hortons. Her hard work paid off as she saved all summer and recently purchased herself a Macbook Air laptop. As I told her, hard work pays off.

Summer brought more hockey, and a riding show for my youngest where she landed herself 2..yes 2 Second place ribbons. I guess she's a natural. If only we could win the lottery to buy her a horse, or ourselves land. I will dream. Aside from kids activities we got out camping more than the year before but still not quite as much as we would have liked. I love camping and our new trailer makes camping especially wonderful and comfortable and allows us the security of bringing along my parrot. As per our yearly holidays we made it out to Kelowna for a week. Part of the week I had my girlfriend and her son out and while they were visiting we had amazing weather and stayed busy. We took in the canal in Penticton, mini golf and much more however after they departed the sun went too and we had rain for the remainder of our trip. We decided that next year we would camp for a week instead.

Lots packed our days, BBQ's, weekends away, days spent crossing off to do's, a Katy Perry concert for my oldest and her 15th birthday...the girls visited with their grandparents for a week towards the end of August and did some shopping. I wish I could clearly recall every event and thing we accomplished but there was so much.

We did get the RV pad extended, the Trailer into the backyard with help of a 360 mover :), the yard level and new grass planted, the deck got a new coat of paint...My husband got a new truck because of course new toys (RV) requires a new rig right? It's a fantastic vehicle though, a one ton loaded truck, leather, dvd, sunroof, megacab...you name it. I have to admit it sure makes traveling comfortable, especially the air conditioned and heated seats.

So I guess we all managed to accomplish and enjoy things we wanted this summer.

This year summer went fast and time was just not a friend to get everything we had wanted to done. We did break ground with plumbing and the basement is framed, electrical is done however it's now December. So our intention of having our oldest in the basement by school start sadly did not happen. Now we are shooting for a spring 2015 move...oh time please be with us! Once drywall is complete I'm sure the rest will go fast, but it's just a matter of getting to that point.

Now the kids have started back to school, grade 10 and grade 7 and actually as I type this we are into December, so really they are half way through the school year.  It's hard to believe that they have grown up so much. Many new and wonderful adventures ahead for sure. Of course both are doing amazing. I'm impressed that my oldest has managed to balance a job and hockey on top of school while keeping her grades up.

Speaking of hockey, first year and she made the girls Midget A team! Div 1!! The team is doing well and has been busy! Much busier than ringette. Already they have played in numerous tournaments including one in Penticton which they just returned from and placed 3rd. Presently my daughter is unable to play having strained her MCL. Through physio she hopes to be back on ice in the early New Year. She's off crutches already and wearing a hinged brace.

Obviously life has been pretty hectic as I have been MIA. Truly and honestly when I get down on myself and in life I tend to cast things to the side. This being one. No one wants to read daily struggles of someone failing and swimming in negativity. When pain becomes a lot I find focusing on anything positive is hard. So I stopped watching what I was eating, picked up a smoke....then another...and really just quit on me. I still managed to balance life though not easy through migraines and pain BUT I made it through each day. That is an accomplishment in itself.

So where am I now? We're just days out from Christmas and I am super happy with me. I haven't lost a bunch of weight or anything huge to be honest. No big news to share. I am managing. I quit smoking, I'm eating healthy, I'm finding ways to deal with the pain without medicating and while some days are harder than others I'm making it. I find just accomplishing each day to be a huge part of my positive focus. With that accomplishment I have found strength again to focus on doing things I enjoy...managing the house, crossing off to do's, focusing on myself. I've been painting which I find very soothing. I've been reading. We painted the whole main floor and redecorated and I love it. Like our bonus room it's fresh and new and uplifting. I needed that. My husband loves that our home has more 'flow' and that it is more modern and cohesive.

Here's a sneak peak picture of the main floor....

My To Do List has shortened dramatically surprisingly in the past few months. I've been decluttering weekly and have been doing online auctions for my clutter, selling it to bidders for money. What a great deal and I do far better than having a garage sale. In fact....we have done so well that my husband and I bought ourselves a King size bed! In doing so our oldest moved into a queen size and we bought a double for our youngest. We have talked on and off for the last couple years about getting a king size bed and now having decluttered and found this amazing auction site we have in turn benefited.

So....
-basement plumbing done, framing done, electrical done, drywall started
-house decluttered and going through boxes to declutter more
-new beds
-main floor painted & redecorated

That's doing quite well I think based on the fact my oldest has hockey 5-6 days a week. Not all on ice but either dry land or yoga. Plus my youngest and her riding. Then add school work, errands, house work.....we've done well the past few months.

I have NO set goals at this point. While I am totally a list developer I am taking everything one day at a time and doing things when I see time. I jump at the opportunity and use time wisely. I know everyone generally sets New Years Resolutions but I am not so sure I will. I'm hoping to live healthier over all and focus more on overall life enjoyment. No stressing the small stuff. Camp a little more, get my oldest into the basement but aside from that....if I can live healthier this next year I will be happy.

I know that a big part of my unhappiness stems from frustration with how I feel day to day. I know based on that I am an emotional eater. I've been trying hard to learn how to just get through days and manage pain but focus on positives. It's a daily struggle and a learning curve with so many bends but it's my life. I know stones will fall into the path and try to derail....like recently I went to urgent care with pain in my neck and shoulder. I was rushed in and the doctors were concerned based on symptoms that it could have been a heart attack. Thankfully it wasn't but I was diagnosed with Thoracic Outlet Syndrome which very well could be related to the accident just as my TMJ is. We are looking at routes to go at this time but it is what it is. It was actually this diagnosis that kicked me in the ass as I woke up realizing that I can sit around depressed that I have pain or I can fight through it and try to live. Negative was breaking me. Positive is a much happier place. In this moment I can honestly say that I am happy. I have no space to rent for shit. I have no desire to deal with drama, no care to deal with stress which can be avoided. I am cleaning my home, ridding my life of negatives and pushing stones out of the way with a stronger voice and it feels great!

I hope to keep up with this more often. Maybe not daily as I now see how hard it is to be realistic about fitting everything in and some days I can hardly sit up to do anything let alone blog, but it's my hope to keep my blog more up to date.

I'm thankful to be back.

Today My Name Is...Warrior

Today My Name is...Scrambling

So since we've been back we've been busy! Seriously never a dull moment...or a moment. We've been out once for groceries aside from quick stops for food for camping.

I have not done my workouts, nor did I manage to get back on track. After Florida and indulging and putting weight back on I ended up sick May long and have a nagging cough. It seems as though it will never end! Perhaps instead of trying to fix my body image I should fix how I feel about myself and see myself and from there everything will work out..

Upon returning we had the vet trip. Kiedis was on meds for 2 weeks and a cone. Then to top it ended up with an ear infection...as did my youngest daughter. Oh the joy. Kiedis started Urinary food as well. We hope it keeps him from piddling on the floor...if it's a medical issue like crystals he should stop...unless it's behavioral. Never ever a dull moment with pets either.

Our return meant back to the grind...back to insanity...hockey Tuesday/Thursday, horse lessons Monday...trying to fit in running around in between. Oh and getting ready for grade 9 grad, horse shows and hockey show cases...did I mention it's playoffs and we've been trying to catch the games on TV too...trying is the best we can.

We've been out twice camping. I LOVE OUR TRAILER!!! The weather both weekends as well as the company was fantastic! A little rain on the May long weekend but it never kept us inside or under the awning for long. Lots of wild life or rather signs...scratches on the trees from bears, cougar prints just feet from our trailer, a skunk crossing paths with my hubby on his return from the shower house...thankfully he made it back still fresh and not skunky lol. It sure is an upgrade from our tent trailer. I loved the tent trailer but it's really nice to be able to bring Viggo with us and have the kids bring friends and not have our pups crawl all over us. Each time we've gone out I am still so happy with our decision and the model we went with. We have so much storage and have only used maybe 1/4! Many fun weekends ahead for sure in our future. Hockey is over as of June 15th and life will settle some then too so we can get away more.

We've also had to replace our deep freeze....we went with an upright this time. While there was nothing wrong with our old one...well...there was nothing wrong until my oldest daughter rammed the Journey into it...I was just thankful she was ok. My husband had allowed her to drive home from hockey...so pretty much Cochrane to SE Calgary a good 45 minute drive. She did exceptional he said. No issues merging onto Glenmore or Deerfoot. She's a new driver so it always makes me nervous with her driving, thus why nothing was said until I saw her pull up at home. She had told her dad that she didn't want to park in the garage but he said he had done so well that she should. While trying to focus on not hitting her dad while pulling into the garage she accidentally hit the wrong pedal and slammed into the deep freeze. Vehicle was fine, can't say the same for the freezer. I was just happy that she made it home in one piece!

I should really find time to fit in meal planning and grocery shopping haha. We've only grabbed necessities since returning from Florida. Thank goodness for a well stocked pantry.

We're loading our plates through until the end of June. Lots of To Do's, mostly outside work but also getting started on the basement. We're past our wishful start date already. I hope to have the backyard looking mighty fine by next weekend...or the weekend after... The hubs hopes to extend the back pad and fit the new trailer in the backyard. I think it's possible. It would save us a big yearly storage payment and the convenience would be ideal. I have managed to get the initial top coat of paint on the deck floor. It's got a gritty sand in it which makes the boards look like composite and keep it slip free and sliver free. I must say it looks good.

I know things all take time, I'm a dreamer with no patience though so I want it all done now! Now is hard when a lot of the wishes I have require man power of which I cannot assist with due to my right arm. With my hubby working lots and our crazy schedule that amounts to lack of time...so I dream. These posts sure help me to see though that in time, the To Do list does end up with checks and things do get done...in time.

Speaking of which...the bonus room! We had gotten the pictures hung in the freshly painted bonus room...curtains too. I neglected to post a picture but I have no issue sharing now. I love it..so fresh, so clean...so renewed! I have future plans for the main level...but they will have to wait until at least fall...after basement renos, yard work, hockey registration...Winter is a good time to get indoor stuff done though. Perhaps I should change my big To Do lists to a Winter, Spring & Summer lists instead.

 

My youngest daughter competed in her first Brave show. We had to register her with American Equestrian Federation and get her an AEF number. Being a show circuit that also meant proper show apparel, so shopping had to be done. She's cute as a button and looks so professional. She did exceptionally well placing second in two of three classes. The one class that she did not place in was due to a slip and falling forward onto PK's neck. She's learning though. Her biggest fault is that she leans so far forward that she's been doing this a fair bit. Once she figures it out I'm sure she'll be claiming firsts left right and centre.

I myself loved riding as a child. After Christopher Reeves fall my parents didn't want me hurt which I can understand. I worry too, there is a real risk behind this sport. Often I dream of buying my daughter a horse. I just don't see her passion like the one I had. She lacks the ambition to muck stalls, clean up after her horse now and even do a lot of the tacking up ect. She leans quite heavily on her daddy for help. She also doesn't have the desire to ride daily, or even a few times a week. She loves horses, enjoys riding but knowing her past of losing interest I'm not ready to invest. In the years ahead if she continues perhaps she will become further involved and we may end up with a horse but for now, my pocket book thanks her lack of passion. We'll do another year of showing and growing and see what might come.

I'm assuming a lot will change in the year ahead with one daughter heading into high school. These years have passed way too fast. I often wish I could go back and simply sit and take in those moments again and enjoy them just a tad more. It hit me that my oldest will be 15 so very soon and I sat thinking about this just a tad too long at a 4 way stop until my daughter told me it was my turn...I got a few looks. LOL I'm very proud of the ladies they are...even though they have their moments. Just the changes like my oldest getting her learners and driving is tough to swallow. Grade 10 chokes me up. I'm glad boys haven't been a huge issue as that just adds a page of drama that we don't want to be reading in addition to everything else.

As it's still spring and trying to make room for changes I joined a few auction groups. I've made two purchases and decided that I will try my hand at this in clearing space at home and gaining some money while doing so. Generally I have garage sales or donate but this is super easy. It also saves time and the stress of setting up a garage sale. Most do what is called a bin system. It's an honor system where items won are placed along with a box to put the money in when winners pick up. Provided people are honest this is pretty easy. So I have gone through some clothing and household items that are in very good condition, washed, photographed and will post the items and see how it all goes. It will be interesting to see how they do and it will be nice to make a little money to help with everything going on right now. I'm sure the update on this will be a full entry itself!

It's been busy, hopefully I can fit in time to update more often.

Today My Name Is....Florida

 

We're home! What a fantastic time we had in Florida! Despite a little rain, a day of wearing poncho's at Magic Kingdom and two very long days of travel it was awesome!

Now having said that next trip we book will have direct flights. Basically we lost 2 days of vacation to travel and lay overs and it amounted to long exhausting days. Especially the initial day.

We left on Monday April 28th, up at 6am to get ready, pack our vehicle and be across the city at my hubby's parents for an 8am cab pick up. We checked in and plane left at about 10:30am. There was a 30 minute delay. Once in Toronto there was yet another delay so the 5hr lay over turned into more of a 6hr lay over. By the time we arrived in Florida, got our rental van, bags and made it to the resort and checked in it was 2am Florida time. We were all bagged.

 


We stayed at Tiki Liki resort. It was nice enough but wasn't as nice as our previous accommodations at Calypso Cay Resort. We found Calypso much better stocked, bright, clean and very close to everything. Tiki Liki was a bit further though still in close proximity to everything. We ended up with a 2 bedroom condo. Hubby's parents stayed in the master room and our girls had the other room and my hubs and I took the hide-a-bed. Initially they put us in a condo that faced the parking lot despite the fact the resort was empty. That was very disappointing. At 2am we just wanted sleep but the next morning we went to inquire about a condo facing the pool. They moved us...with a charge of $65 for cleaning since we stayed the night in the initial condo. The condo's were not upgraded as some of the rooms had been that we saw on trip advisor. They were old and tired looking and we had issues with the toilets and sink faucets. Our condo faced the pool that was open until midnight. With teens we wanted to face the pool in the event we were making dinner so we could still see the girls. Due to evening weather we never used the pool at the end of the day. Bummer.

Our first day, Tuesday started off beautiful, slightly over cast, warm...we were loving it. We slept in a bit, got up and then headed for more of a brunch/lunch stopping at Cracker Barrel. We had never been there before. It wasn't bad. Interesting place. After lunch we went to Walmart to grab food for packing lunches for the park and our first few meals. I cannot get over how cheap things are down there in comparison. Stocked up and having gotten our park tickets there as well being cheaper than many places we were headed back to the resort. We unpacked...and it started raining...pouring...lightening...so we relaxed. Our intention of BBQing went out the door so we decided to head out and about and check out an Outlet mall. I love the outlet malls down there. Great deals! The mall is open to the outdoors so we had to run between stores in the rain but the cool rain felt nice. After some great buys, we grabbed a bite to eat at the food court and headed back to pack lunch and hit the hay....

Wednesday morning was yet again beautiful, slightly overcast but nice and warm. We all felt like we were likely adjusting to the difference in temperatures. We were up at 7am to get ready and be out the door early to be at the park just before opening at 9am. Our initial park we decided to hit based on crowd calender was Island of Adventures and Universal Studios. We got a 1 day park hopper pass since we'd been at Universal before and saw most of that park. Before even paying for parking and while waiting in the line up of cars a lady ran over to our van, knocked on the window and passed us a paid parking pass. Talk about wow....we were all dumbfounded...thanked her and wondered why us. What a feel good and what a wonderful woman! Made our day, special act of kindness.

 

Island of Adventures was really cool. The Harry Potter area was amazing and very well done. My girls loved it. I'd say we were all in awe and really took it in. My youngest got herself a wand and my oldest got a Butter Beer which she just had to have. Butter Beer is yummy...I stole a sip or two. We did most of the rides in Island of Adventures loving the roller coasters...especially the Dueling Dragons and Hulk! At Universal we of course did the Mummy ride which we all loved the time before. We also did the Minion ride and Transformers. Awesome!!! They are must. It was sad to see that Jaws is no more. My youngest did pose beside the hanging Jaws this time, but alas...no Jaws ride. Boo!!! I heard they also closed King Kong and are going to be closing ET! Say it ain't so!! We bailed at about 6pm from the parks. The skies were dark and threatening and it was good that we did when we did as they opened up and poured. Good timing.

The downpour prevented us from once again doing our BBQ so we fried burgers in a pan and then went out to check out a gift shop for deals on Disney stuff and TJ Max. Much like Winners and found ourselves a few more great deals, but nadda at the first gift shop. We called it a night around midnight. I cannot believe how late stores stay open! Again a good thing for those trying to pack lots in, in a short time.

 

Thursday we were once again up bright and early and off to Epcot. It was a beautiful morning, blue skies, a few clouds. Great start! We got parking right up close with no need to jump a tram to the front. Lines moved smooth and we were in right off the hop. I was sad that the pavilions were closed until 11am. Our plan was to hit them first while it was still cool and before our afternoon Fast Passes. Instead we turned back, purchased Magic bands and grabbed a star bucks drink. Magic bands are so much easier than pulling out the cards. I highly recommend them and they are good for 2yrs I believe...so we can reload them if we return within 2yrs, no need to purchase more. While killing time we jumped in line for Soarin which was a hit again. It's amazing what they can do with technology now. I really felt as though we were soaring through the skies. Last time we were at Epcot we went in the evening and did dinner with the princesses in Norway and watched the fireworks. We didn't get further than China in the Pavilion and only went on Soarin, Mission to Mars and the boat in Norway. This time we did Test Track...(<--a must!) Living off the Land (informative), visited with Crush for a few laughs. We walked the pavillion later in the day. My hubs and I tried beers in Germany, I had a Grapefruit beer and he had a Pilsner I believe. I enjoyed mine... we also purchased a Cow Bell in Germany and a blown glass mickey ornament for our tree. We always buy ornaments on our trips. The day ended around 5pm once again and before rain...again! Unreal this time that we had so much. Thankfully we were able to BBQ our steaks. The BBQ's...were few and far between and not close in proximity to our condo...which was a bit of a let down. It didn't pour like nights before but was a constant drizzle. We still managed a quick walk around to check out the sites at the resort, stop at the arcade and chase frogs.

Friday we again woke bright and early to head to the Magic Kingdom. Skies were not blue and we wondered how the day would go. Our hopes upon leaving the resort were that many would put off visiting this park due to the possibility of rain...GPS had been good to us up until this trip...we ended up detouring through back country roads and got more of a scenic tour. In the end it worked out and we got to see some really nice family communities...hmmm got us thinking...how wonderful would it be to live in Florida? Le Sigh... We still made it to Magic Kingdom around 9am. Instead of taking the ferry across as we had our previous trip 4 years ago we opted for the tram. We piled into it like cows onto a slotter truck. I was amazed again with how well set up the parks are. So efficient. We really didn't have any waits...for parking, or tram or to get into parks.... very well thought out! Perhaps it's because of when we went. In any case it was a smooth process. Once inside the park we ventured towards the Haunted Mansion. This is a favorite for my girls. On pinterest we had seen Disney Secrets to look for, ask for ect...it must be either outdated OR for California as they do not hand out maps at the Safari ride or death certificates at the Haunted Mansion. The girls were a bit choked. As we left the Haunted Mansion it began to sprinkle to we headed for cover and went on the Safari ride. We were dry until we got off...then it poured! Hint... pre purchase ponchos in advance of parks!! They are $$$ at the park. We found this out but now have cool Disney Ponchos. We ended up wearing them all day as it rained all day. I guess it was a good thing though as we made it from open to close at the park. If it had been hot we may have left early. We got in a lot and tried Splash Mountain and Thunder Mountain this time. The rain did not dampen our parade but did cancel the Disney parades. :( We also didn't see any characters which was too bad because my youngest bought an autograph book.

2 hours before the firework display we took cover at the train Station with an amazing view of the castle...and it was covered. While waiting we witnessed the most beautiful proposal... as the lights turned on the surrounding buildings and night came, the rain was drizzling a young man got down in the middle of the square and proposed. She said yes and everyone cheered. So super romantic! Then not long after while in the confectionery shop with my hubby an employee asked for everyones attention, then introduced a little girl and asked that everyone sing Happy Birthday to her. There was at least 100 people packed into the shop and everyone stopped to sing. The little girl and her mother were blown away. It was a moment I was happy to be a part of, a moment I will remember. The little girls day was made. Magic Kingdom really is a place of happy. Thankfully the rain lightened up so we still got to see the Electric parade and then the fantastic show on the castle and fireworks. I think we all teared up...happy tears. It was breath taking and magical! I am so glad we stayed despite the rain. We saw the fireworks at Epcot 4yrs before but they are nothing compared to Magic Kingdom.

After Magic Kingdom we headed home...and being midnight..there was little sitting up to visit. We were all bagged...3 days of parks, walking and long day of travel...we planned nadda for the following day.

Saturday we slept in, sat in PJ's on the deck, enjoyed some sun...it was a day of a lot of nothing. The girls went to the Arcade but aside from that we did some laundry, sat around enjoying drinks and then hit Chuy's for dinner. If you haven't been there...GO!! NOM NOM NOM their creamy jalapeno dip is to die for...seriously amazing. We all loved it and bought some to bring home to enjoy for the following days. They added 2 bags of their thing tortilla chips at no charge. The dip doubles as a super salad dressing. I immediately pinned Chuy's jalapeno dressing on Pinterest when we got back and will be attempting to make it...fingers crossed that it tastes the same or we will be returning on another trip just for Chuy's in the near future.



Sunday was another lax day...we took it easy and did a bit more Outlet shopping. I love outlets! I think I already said that. Haha. This shopping mall wasn't as busy and much larger. The hit for me was Forever 21 where I got a few really nice shirts and a dress. I'm not typically a dress person but really liked this one. Great get! We did Sonic for dinner. My oldest daughter had asked all week to go to Sonic since we didn't find one last visit. Luckily this time it was right by the mall. We all enjoyed the shakes but could and would pass on the meal next time. I had Coconut Cream Pie...I'd have it again!

Our last day in Florida we were up again Monday for our last park, Hollywood Studios. We never got to this park the last trip and were curious. It was awesome! I cannot get over how amazing everything was. We did the Aerosmith Rock'n Roller Coaster. I wasn't overly impressed. The take off was awesome but after the intense speed it was a let down. Even the Tower of Terror wasn't as insane as West Ed's drop. Both were enjoyable though, I just really like thrill. A must at Hollywood Studio's is the Star Wars ride! We all loved it. We also checked out Backlot which was neat. The stunt show is a must with cars doing awesome stunts. The Pirates show is super cool and the graphics make it seem like Johnny Depp is right there. It was insane warm on Monday and we all got sun...a little red too. We didn't get everything at the park in and left early. The heat was just draining us. So after a bite of lunch, a margarita and huge pickle we pretty much packed it in and decided to head back. It was a great end to a fantastic trip.

Tuesday we were up at 3am to head to the airport. We had about a 40 minute drive and had to return the rental so we left the condo at 4am and made it to the airport and returned the car in perfect time to check in for 5am. After grabbing breakfast we took it easy and thankfully our plane was on time this time around. The first plane to Toronto was fairly smooth, however there was a bit of a scare when a young man sitting near an exit door went a little nuts. I'm pretty sure he had some form of a mental disorder as he was screaming, thrashing around and trying to bite his father. His parents and the flight crew moved him to the back and calmed him but it sure sent a bit of an adrenaline rush through the plane, especially when he reached for the exit door while in flight. I've never experienced anything like it and I hope to never again. We had a quick lay over and then boarded to return to Calgary.

It was sad to be home. Such a difference in weather. I missed our pets and right away our sitter let us know our poodle hurt his foot. He wasn't sure if it was a nail he might have stepped on after having had our roof redone or just what. Turned out he broke a toe nail clear off to the quick. His toe was a bit swollen and he was running a fever so it was off to the vet. We did urine test at the time too since he's been peeing. Meds, a cone, and urine test/culture and we were home...exhausted too.

I'm already thinking of our next trip and where it might take us...so many places we'd like to go. Perhaps we'll go check out Disneyland...or Hawaii...who knows. All I know is...I cannot wait to travel again!

Today My Name Is...Giddy

Coke would be nice...fizzy...sweet...

I cheated...Nachos and cheese....I felt horrible...guilty but it was good. If you fall off...fall hard...

That's always been my motto...I must break it! Food driven, emotional eater...this blog should be called 'Life of an Emotional Eater...' Why is there no quick fix?!?

Oh but there is...it's called Healthy eating in appropriate portion size helpings...and in a few months the pounds are gone...but it's staying on track and getting there that sucks...it's a struggle...

What's worse is the working out....I feel great after doing it...pumped, good, stronger, more able and as though I could conquer anything. Those are awesome feelings. It's fighting the inner monster that tells me no, don't do it that is the worst. If I just do it I am always glad I did. If I don't...well the guilt is there...I quit, failed...

No one ever said, "I'm glad I didn't work out" Well maybe someone but few I am sure...

Healthy eating helps our over all health, organs, function, hair, nails, skin...I write about the importance of feeding my Eclectus parrot a strict diet to give him the best health possible and it took time, and it took dedication and it took patience and habit...but he's in superb health. If only I could do the same...damn advertising, damn markets with good looking boxes and packaging that screams 'Eat Me!' Damn Nachos....oooooh I want a slurpee...

Welcome to my daily struggle. How the heck do I find inner strength to fight the inner food demon that wants junk...why am I so weak? Food is addictive! I need to do another cleanse! Pronto! Hmmm...maybe when I return from Florida, that in combination with the 21 Day Fix...following it to a T!

Countdown is on...two sleeps and we're out of here....leaving the basement until we return but when we do it's getting 100% attention. We need to get it ready to move plumbing, frame and electrical....then drywall, hire mudding and taping plus ceiling spray...from there it's all downhill. I look forward to checking off a long over due To Do list home reno...

So house is clean, bags are pretty much packed. Had a minor set back when the dryer made a loud terrible screeching sound...figured for sure we were without a dryer when we needed one most. Thankfully I have a handy hubby and wonderful father in law! Laundry check! YAY!! Talk about moment of stress. We did get the pictures in the Bonus room hung...that was a highlight.

Today was a shopping day. I dislike shopping. I love clothes, love new things but not so much the shopping aspect. I spent my Christmas gift card at La Senza...sharing it with my girls. New comfortable and appropriate PJ's as well for the trip and books for all of us for the trip. My girls are huge book worms. Especially our oldest who goes through books in a day or two...I made the deal with her in grade one that for every book she read we would buy her one. That turned into an expensive deal. She has a huge bookcase in her room filled with books. Figuring that she would over run the bookcase we got her a kobo ereader but alas...she likes books and couldn't transition well to the ereader. She reads quite a few more than once which helps with cost. Could be worse right?

So now we are pretty much ready to go...just playing the waiting game. Tomorrow we will enjoy one last visit with my sister and her family before we leave. My sister is in town at the moment to have her third child. This one will be a surprise...I suspect it will be a girl by the way she is carrying, although I did see clothes for a boy today...Hmmm does she know the gender and isn't sharing? She's due May 2 but the doctors are inducing her the day we leave and then she and her husband and two daughters need to be back home by May 3rd to relieve their dog sitter. Alas we will not get to see the new baby until later. It's always hard to plan around things, we had to do what worked best for all of our schedules. I'm sure we will see them all soon enough, it just won't be an itty bitty new baby we get to meet. I'll be waiting for updates.

At this point I don't know who is more excited in the house...the kids or my husband and I. We love travel, love adventure, and love Florida. Be ready for an awesome update...more than likely when we return.

Until then...

Today My Name is...Giddy!

Today My Name Is...Lacking

Where to start....sheesh wish it could be as positive as my last post. Frustration I tell you! I am lacking will power...lacking motivation...lacking drive...lacking everything. :(

So I went from being pumped, uplifted, sore....down 10lbs...but then with working out weight started going up. Which having read an article about how the body retains water to help heal muscles I knew would happen so there was the reason but being me and liking to see instant results I stumbled...fell...tripped...it was all over Easter weekend. I was showing almost a 5lb increase. Not happy but knew it was likely water retention...my muscles hurt. The number though was what got me so I fell off the amazing eating I was doing and enjoyed beer and wings with friends Friday...then Saturday ham, potatoes, rice and broccoli and two slices of coconut cream pie. I cooked a turkey Sunday which turned out fabulous if I don't say. We had mashed potatoes, spinach salad, buns, veggies, gravy (<- from scratch and again turned out heavenly) plus stuffing and then a three layer chocolate bar cake....plus beer. Feeling super crappy about everything I ate I had a couple beer on Monday too. :( Plus a chocolate Bunny. FAK! Seriously...when I stumble I do it well and leave marks...GRRR. I did do my work outs though all through with the exception of Monday. I had a poor me day and felt like what was the point. Tuesday I worked out and still hate Cardio though happy that I made it through the whole workout without a pause or quitting and my legs hurt less. I guess that's a good thing. Here it's Tuesday and I cannot find the motivation to do upper body workout. I'll have to do a double workout this week to make up for lack of Monday. I do see inches off...without a doubt toning...but it's the stupid number on the scale that kills me.

What's the saying? One bad meal won't hurt you, but many will? Something like that...I guess for the most part it was healthy, minus the cake, pie and beer....and bunny.

So having now vented and realizing all of the above when I return from Florida the scale is out the door until I do a full 21 day fix. NO Stumbles!

I will do the work out....I will do the work out....Motivation please find me!

My daughter returned from her trip having had an amazing time. I was so happy to hear all about it and see the pictures and listen to her share with family. She bought gifts for everyone and even returned with money in her pocket! She said she could easily see herself living in Montreal, or going to school there and cannot wait to return again one day. She is now looking forward to the day she graduates high school as we promised her a trip to France. I am sure her love will change directions when she steps foot there. I fell head over for France, specifically southern France. Oh lala!

It's been a good few days still despite my stumbles. I am happy to report that the high school came back with acceptance into all classes she requested. The first evening at hockey went great. My daughter said she was the newbie having missed the first week because she was in Quebec so the girls didn't really talk to her. She enjoyed the dryland workout and said she loved the intensity of the on ice session. From the videos I saw she looked good...and she was up against AA and AAA girls. The players skills were amazing to say the least, very impressive and the other goalie will teach my daughter a thing or two. She's always played ringette with hockey goalie school so it's not super foreign but she's new out there. Being competitive she will catch on quick and will no doubt go into tryouts strong! The goaltending coaches are super too! Did I mention a Calgary Flame's daughter is on ice with her? Pretty cool!

My youngest is gaining strides in her riding finally after being pitched a few months back. After the dismount (we'll call it that) she regressed being nervous but thankfully is once again gaining confidence and we look forward to competition and shows come May after our return. She also had a teacher in tears happy over her school audition and set the bar high.

As always I am a very proud mom. :)

Even with my days of falling off the super healthy wagon, I didn't totally fail in accomplishing my to do's for the weekend. In fact we got the tent trailer set up, new hardware put on, cleaned out, all our stuff moved to the new trailer. I got the back yard tidied and poop scooped. House cleaned, visited with family and friends each day, did Ukrainian eggs and managed to paint two HUGE paintings that I am quite impressed with. I may have found my new outlet for art. It doesn't bother my arm like cross stitch or drawing does. Perhaps that is because I lay my canvases flat vs upright which adds less tension on my arm. In any case I now have two pieces to hang...of which one goes up tonight.  I also got my parrot Viggo out in his new travel cage to enjoy some vitamin D and fresh air. He was thrilled and was completely ok being in the cage.

Lots to do before we leave so really I should be doing that vs blogging but I needed the down time...

From my list of things still to do I've:
-sold the old small set of goalie pads
-plus sold old goalie chest protector
- Truck got an oil change.
-Obviously got a storage lot for the trailer

 So I am getting closer to being ready for a new spring list. ;) Of things I want to accomplish this spring....

Spring To Do:
-power rake & aerate the lawn
-add more dirt to bring up the lawn level & seed heavily
-add flower bed by deck
-close in deck & re stain
-add flower bed in front yard
-finish garage clean

As for this coming weekend....seriously finish cleaning the basement and take a load to the dump! That way we can get going on the basement.

Until next time...be it before or on our return....

Today My Name Is...Lacking

Today My Name Is...Energized

 

 

It's been an interesting year as I reflect back. Since my grandmother passed away I have repeatedly seen the number 11. On clocks, the time of emails, the gondola, we picked up our trailer on the 11th, my hospital appointment was on the 11th....all good has come in hand with that number. It's been like a signal that I am on the right path and I've felt the presence of my grandmother right there along the way. Additionally it's been interesting....I've seen Canadian Geese, but after our dear old Thunder left us I see them constantly now in two's. Maybe that's always been how they are but life just comes to my attention now. Stop and smell the roses right? New appreciation.

 

My week has been all in all great. It started with Monday night out with my mother, her friend and my aunt for an evening of painting. FUN! I love to paint, but what was better was the company and atmosphere. It's something I could do more often in the company of my mother, friends or anyone for that matter.

I'm on day 3 now of the 21 Day Fit program. Eating has been simple. I am still following the cleanse diet as that agreed with me exceptionally well. The only thing I have really added into the diet has been a small amount of fruit...1/2 a banana and a couple strawberries. They are not unhealthy choices so I do not feel badly. Now...the eating has been a slice...again no cravings....well I shouldn't say that, I actually crave vegetables. Interesting eh? The work outs...haha...well the cardio kicked my butt something fierce and my legs have felt like crap. Yesterday was upper body which wasn't too bad, mainly core and arms. I had to modify a bit for my right arm and I did not use the suggested weights. I did it all with 3lb. I will get 5lb but I do not want to push my arms too much and cause anything that could trigger a migraine or issues with my TMJ or nerve issues that would bring on loss of use. I know my limits and what I can and cannot do, anything past and I pay dearly. Today is lower body...yup...more legs. They haven't even recovered yet....so this should be fun!

               

Above are a few of the yummy lunches and dinners I have had. The amount of energy I have had in these last few weeks is huge. I am so driven, motivated...energized. I am seeing more done, feeling much more capeable to conquer anything. It's good. Especially good because I have lots of to do's planned for the weekend.

This weekend is Easter and it will be my first ever time cooking a Turkey and making Easter Dinner. I know it will be good. Don't ask me how I just know. I've turned into quite the little Betty Crocker. I love to cook...bake...Dinner will be healthy, that way I can eat a bit of all of it. Dessert on the other hand I can't say I will touch but that's only because I am being so careful about what I eat. I'll be sure to post a picture of my first Easter Supper.

Tomorrow my oldest returns from out East. Time has flown by...we've filled each day up with lots! She has had a blast...and I am anxiously awaiting her return and hearing about everything. It's been a year now since my Grandmother left us and I thought it was especially touching that my daughter lit a candle for her in Notre Dame. The count down for me is on until she returns... One more work day and after work we pick her up!!!! Then thankfully she has the following day off...we all do, so it will be spent doing family stuff, like the traditional Ukrainian eggs.

                              

We've done Ukrainian eggs every year since I was bitty and now since my girls were able. The eggs always look amazing and each year holds a new look or story to the pictures that make their way onto the eggs. I miss the Easter egg hunts and chicks and bunnies at Police Point in Medicine Hat and fun games and walks and adventures but we just don't have time to get down this year between my oldest daughter's trip and leaving for Florida. Too much to do, and not enough time.

The count down is also on until we leave for our trip....we leave in 12 days!!! Whoop whoop!

Lots on the go lately and hopefully the weather once again warms up. I think Mother Nature needs to change her meds...her mind sure isn't made up. Loving life in the moment...living presently...

Today My Name Is...Energized.