September - the New New Year ?

 I know that New Years Eve and New Years Day are the traditional days to make a plan for fresh beginnings and resolutions.  I've always looked at September as the New, New Year.   

It seems like the perfect time to downshift a bit after the craziness of the summer.   I  love the long days, sunshine, hot weather and everything that entails.....outside patio time, flowers, nights by the firepit, gathering with family and friends, flip flops, tank tops and just everything summer.  But as happy as I am to experience everything that summer represents to me, I'm equally as happy to see Autumn arrive.

The shorter days allow me to downshift and breathe.  I'm admittedly guilty of living life to the nth degree; I'm a participant and not an observer.   As darkness and cooler weather arrive, I relish the slower pace of life.   September always holds a magical essence for me; it's been an unofficial time of renewal in my life.  Perhaps because it's the month of my birth...my beginning in life.  

When I was little, the starting of school always meant that it was time to buckle down and find more routine.   You know the typical things that parents had you do when you were little: do your homework, do your chores, eat your vegetables,  remember to brush your teeth before bed, bed time at a certain time. 

As an adult, it is of the same except on an adult scale; looking at finances and finding ways to save money or cut back on spending, investment status and goals, diet/exercise regime (either set up a plan, fine tune plan or recommit), indoor household projects to accomplish over the fall and winter months, develop  a winter book reading list, recommit to journaling/blogging, and most importantly....self reflection....what makes me tic, what I'd like to work on in my personality...overall...become better than I was yesterday.  

The self reflection one is a doozy.  What makes me tic and what can I do better; pretty heavy stuff.  It require a lot of willingness to dig down in to the soul and to see what you're made of.   I like to think that I'm made of light, but if I'm honest with myself, there is plenty of darkness there to work on.   I'd let you in on my self-improvement list, but some of it is pretty personal stuff.  You understand, I'm sure.  :)  Just know that each and every day is a new day to "get it right". 

So today, September 2nd is a day that I'm taking inventory and getting a jump start on the new New Year.   (Never too early - or late - to start self improvement!)

I'm On My Way

I'm Sick

This is day #3 of powerful antibiotics, being housebound and sick.  My body has been sick since before Christmas.  Gastrointestinal issues, cold and respiratory issues....a vicious cycle that wasn't getting better but worse. Doctor said it was a "bacterial body infection with weakened immune system"...in other words..."crud".

I'm guilty in not taking care of myself.  I go, go, go, go until I crash and burn....which I did Thursday morning.

I attempted to work.  I lasted 15 minutes and just couldn't do it.  After going home to crawl in bed for a few hours, I made the trip to the clinic where a very nice young Dr. gave me Azithromycin with orders to rest and get plenty of fluids.  He didn't need to tell me twice.

I haven't moved from the house since my appointment on Thursday at 11.  I cancelled all of my yoga classes and have been doing plenty of sleeping and watching TV programs including all day coverage of the Inauguration of our 45th President  (more on that in future posts).

I'm hoping to start feeling better soon.  Day #3 finds my body tired, gastrointestinal issues re-emerging.  I took my last dose of meds a new hour ago.  I'm keeping my fingers crossed but also learned a lesson or two 1) my 54 body doesn't bounce back like it did when it was 25 2)I need to take better care of myself and slow it down a little.  Sometimes life in the fast lane needs to take the "slower traffic to the left" lane. 3) I get bored ...quickly and easily.   This could be problematic in my later years

~Sherry

Life in the Fast Lane

It's not just an Eagles song.  I'm talking about Life.  It's already the 17th of January.  Holy Smokes!

While I'm anxiously counting down the weeks until the 1st day of Spring (9 for those interested), I don't want time to go so fast.

I have so much to do, things to get organized, projects to do, places to go and people to see.  But when?  I blink and my days are over. 

I take each day as it happens.  I try not to schedule too much ....but I'm not one to sit in my chair either.  Life is meant to be lived!

I've been helping my nephew Blaine take care of his apartment, cleaning, organizing and doing a bit of purging too.  He's so proud of his apartment and living independently, he just needs a little help.  

That had taken up some free time of mine, but I'd do it a hundred times over if it meant Blaine would be happy.

As of February,  I will no longer be doing yoga on my Fridays.   I'm doing That for me.  I need some quality ME time to unwind, go for bike rides, pampering, helping Blaine if need be.  It'll be nice to have the free time...I just have to remember to not put any more obligations in that time. 

I'll continue to live life in the fast lane, but I'll set the speed.  I'll be in control. Hopefully

Treasured Sunday Conversations

My brother's wife, Ron/Pearl, passed away before Thanksgiving.   I have made it a weekly date on Sundays to call him and check in....see how he is doing.

We don't get to deep in conversation.  We talk about weather, his kids and grandchildren, what he did to occupy his time.  Occasionally he mentions his late wife, Pearl, and going out to the cemetery to visit her. They were "in love"....inseparable.

We don't go too deep in conversation but tonight he said, "it's starting to set in that no one is here, she isn't coming back"

I could only respond with, "when it gets too quiet, you're always welcome here. A temporary diversion, I know."

I've come to treasure these weekly conversations with my oldest brother (and Godfather).   He reminds me so much of my father....mannerisms and look.  He has incredible insight  and yet is a man of few words.  These weekly talks are quickly becoming the highlight of my weekend. It's my connection to my brother that warms my heart. 

Sometimes something good does, I deed, come out of tragedy.   While I'd give anything to have Pearl back, I do treasure our very  special time together.  Love you, Ron!

Thursday Musings

It's cold. Dang cold. -9 without windchill.  I'd like nothing more than to hibernate the rest of winter, but that's a bit unrealistic.

I have started counting down the weeks until the first day of Spring....11 weeks!  I hope I last that long.  My seasonal depression always hits me hard in January and February.   I'm trying hard to fight it, but the weather and being "under the weather" are taking a toll.  I know going to the gym more often is integral to my well-being so I have already scheduled in more workouts in to my weeks.  It's all about planning.

I've also started looking at cutting back on some yoga classes.  Taking a look at what I want to do in 2017.  I'm not going to lie....I'm getting a bit burnt out.  My first night back after a two week break was brutal.  I enjoyed my down time from teaching...which is an indication that I need to make some changes.  I feel bad, but my health needs to come first....without that, I'm no good to anyone.
~Sherry♡

Thoughts

  Thoughts...here goes.
1).I'm a positive person, really...I am.  But I'm a little fed up with how winter is sucking the life out of my dunny disposition.  Now, being Ms Positive....it's only 11 weeks until the first day of spring.

2) Some people should be held to a higher standard

3)my winter cold will probably last 11 weeks at the rate it's going

4)time...I need more of it

5)I don't have a new years resolution, but I'm trying to make each day a good one (despite my whining)

6)tomorrow is already Wednesday and I get to teach yoga to amazing peeps!

7)I bought new tunes on Itunes...can't wait to listen to the new Playlist

8)messages from friends make me smile

9)my family is my heart

10) I have amazing friends!

All Staff

Today our facility held it's All Staff meetings, or Warden's meeting.  There was a lot of energy around, and certainly a lot of people in my office as well.  We're also going through a PREA audit, so there's the added energy of that as well.

 

The food service department provided a meal of chicken tortilla soup and walking tacos for the staff.  It was yummilicious!  I'm trying to keep a handle on my weight and not see any more lbs. hit the scale, but I couldn't help having a little extra soup. 

 

One of my best friends, Vickie, received her 25 year award.  I'm so happy for her.  She's a dedicated lady and takes her work very seriously;  many people can take lessons from her.   She has hit her Rule of 85 (years of service + age), so I suspect that she'll be retiring in the near future.  When she does, they will be hard pressed to find someone to fill her shoes.  

 

Several other staff received their 15 year awards.  I'm on my 18th year, so I remember when they all started.  It's nice to see them advance in their careers, or anyone for that matter.  It takes a strong individual to work where we work.  Many staff don't make it past 1 year, 3 or 5....so when you hit the 10 or 15 mark, you're a "lifer."  (A little prison humor for you).

 

As for me, well, I guess I'm a lifer as well.  I'm in my 18th year,  I'm sure I'll be around to collect my 25 year award (that's 7 years away), and perhaps even my 30 year.  Who knows...if I win the lottery, all bets are off!

 

So to all my blog stalkers out there that are fellow co-workers, here's my message to you:   You are ALL amazing people with caring hearts.  The work you do each and every day is amazing, and you do not get the credit that you all deserve.  

 

Namaste'

 

 

Words.

People do not realize their words can be 20 times sharper than surgical steel. More so to an individual with intellectual disabilities.  A few kind words or gesture can go a long way towards making them feel appreciated  and understood.

But when a carelessly placed or misguided word thrown out to these individuals in jest (or is it?) wounds their soul, the results can be irreparable.

It takes a very, very small person to slice someone down with words or even tone of voice. 

Respect you because of your authority?  I think not. 

Shame. On. You.

Sunday Evening

I'm encased in my wooly socks and comfy sweatpants and chillin out.  This coming week is a going to be a cold one with single digits for highs and breezy conditions, which will contribute to the wind chills. !  The older I get, (not that I'm old!) the more difficult time I have assimilating myself to the cold.  Dressing in layers will be a necessity - and hugging up to heaters as often as possible.  

I have a dentist appointment Wednesday to place a temporary crown on a tooth I broke a week ago.  I'm not thrilled that it'll be $500 out of my pocket at Christmas time, but it could worse.  I could have been a root canal and a crown.  (Twisting negative in to a positive, right?)

 

Tonight's writing is short and sweet.   My focus isn't on anything in particular and everything in general.  So rather than ramble on about nothing - or everything - I'm going to close it down for tonight. 

 

May all the blog stalkers have a great evening. 

Stuff

This is what's on my mind now:

1. Tomorrow is Monday.
2. The weekend wasn't long enough...never is.
3. I did a good job decorating the house for Christmas (simple).
4. I called my brother Ron to check in with him.  It was 3 weeks ago today that Pearl passed.  Seems like forever - and yet just like yesterday.  He's lost still, but coping.
5. Had a great time with friends on Saturday night at The Arts Center play "Love Thy Neighbor".
6. I didn't go outside today, not even to walk.  Shame on me.
7. I fixed a good supper - too much food though.  We'll be eating meatballs and mashed potatoes for a few days.
8. Just talked with Blaine - he's always a bright spot.
9. I need to finish my Christmas shopping next weekend.
10. I inadvertently upset a friend this morning by posting something to my Facebook page about parents needing to teach their children respect, through discipline.  I deleted the post.  Note to self: Keep my opinions to myself.
11. I need to get back on track with my eating program.
12. I want a glass of wine, I don't need a glass of wine, but I still want one.  I'm not going to have one though.  Restraint.
13. I'm tired.

 

Good Night

Soul Therapy

I'm not a Church attender.  I've always had this ebb and flow relationship with the Church throughout my life.  It draws me in for a period of time, and then the gypsy spirit in me needs to leave.  I'll go back at some point; I always do. 

Normally I'm out on my bike on Sunday mornings.   It's where I find time for myself to think, to laugh, cry, shout, smile, dream, hope and Believe.  Today I felt the need to walk.  I bundled up and hit the pavement to the park.

It was a brisk 27 degrees, overcast and frosty; absolutely beautiful.  I walked three miles (or 3 times around the park).  It didn't seem like I had gone that far because my mind was so busy thinking through things on the first time around.  The second time around I got outside my head and noticed the beauty around me.  I recited my "I Am Sherry" mantra and slowed down.   The third time through was purely for the sheer joy and love of being outdoors in nature....my Church.   It's  been a place where I feel the closest to God and the Universe's energy.   

I did some soul therapy this morning.

Need to Engage Filter

Ever opened up your mouth and said something and instantly regretted it?   Said what's on your mind and in your heart only to see the look on the other person's face and know that they didn't appreciate your candor; it was one of those moments when you should have shut your mouth and kept your words to yourself?

 

Ya, me too.  Big Time!

 

I hurt someone deeply by opening my mouth - and vomiting words that should have been best kept unsaid.   And I regret it, so very very much.   I'm afraid that I've done irreparable damage to a relationship  and no amount of apologizing will help the situation.  More than likely it'll hurt it more because of my big mouth. 

 

Honesty is not the best policy in some cases.  

 

 

Sick Day

Yes, that nasty cold that had me in a funk yesterday took a turn for the worst last night during yoga classes.  I was so doped up on cold medicine yesterday tha I was almost comatose.  Why I thought I could effectively teach two yoga classes is beyond me.   I did teach, albeit not very effectively.  (Well, I shouldn't say that.  I did a lot more guided relaxation than I normally do and the students seemed to have enjoyed that).  

I went home and straight to bed after downing some Nyquil.  That stuff does some funky things to me.  It's like I was asleep but not really asleep...know what I mean?  And the dreams I had?!  Oh my gosh!   Needless to say, when the alarm went off at 4:45 this morning, there was no way in H#$% that I was going in to work.   So I took only my second sick day in a 12 month period.  The first was for a migraine headache last fall. 

Between naps and being bored out of my mind (yes, I said "Bored"), I cleaned up my business emails, deleted old emails and categorized my in box.  I updated my yoga blog with a cute story and now I'm sitting here typing out some thoughts about being sick.  For the record....it sucks!

Ut oh!

I managed to stay illness free all winter long.  I thought I was on the home stretch and no longer had to worry.

Ya, not so much!

The damp, cold, cloudy weather of the last few days is doing a number on me.  My throat feels like it's on fire, my chest feels like it's in a vice grip, and body feels like its sitting in an igloo!

I'm not happy about this at all.

Am I whining?  You bet your sweet patootie I am!

Dont Judge Me

Don't judge me until you know me. Don't underestimate me until you challenge me. And don't talk about me until you talk to me! -- Will Smith

Salads

They're good for you.  Right?

Until you add on the good stuff: cheese, meat, boiled egg, chow mein noodles, salad dressing. 

And I always eat the good stuff first and leave the lettuce ....which is the better stuff, healthier at least.

I need to rethink my salad strategy.

Sunshine.

Ok, if someone isn't out enjoying this sunshine, I'm going to be highly disappointed!  It's freaking beautiful outside!

Fishing, riding the Harley or just sitting in the sun soaking up the rays with s good book and an adult beverage. It makes no difference!   Just enjoy it!  (For me too please!)

Bring on the rain!

I don't necessarily mind cold, wet, rainy days.

The wind is howling at 40+ mph, we've had over an inch of rain, and the temp is only around 50 (feels colder with the wind). 

I mean, it kinda forces us indoors to do "indoor things" like read a book, watch a movie, take a nap, chat with a friend on the phone, paint my nails, update blogs, daydream and NOT feel guilty cuz we're indoors.  

Seems that life gets fast paced so much of the time that we need these rainy days to slow us down so we can enjoy the good stuff.... relaxation.

So go ahead and enjoy the rainy day.  They don't get me down so much cuz I find ways to enjoy them! 

I have a festish!

Made ya look didn't I?! 

Yes, I've crossed over to the dark side.  I have a pen fetish!

I get absolutely giddy with anticipation at the prospect of buying a new pen.  There are soooo many choices.  Colors, microball, gel, ball point, Bic, Marquis (my personal favorite!).

  I mean...Really!   How do you choose??

I can lose myself for hours doodling away on those little "try me" pieces of paper they so thoughtfully provide. 

It is rather like trying out a new car.  The pen if desire HAS to drive smooth with minimal effort to the handler.  A smooth drive wins me over every time.

So...wanna make me happy?   Its simple...buy me a smooth driving pen...then leave me alone.  Lol