Do you ever feel like you're sitting on the sidelines of your own? You realize things need to change, but you continue to reluctantly wait for someone to "put you in the game?" The past two months of my life have been filled with change, God's blessings, success, failures and so much more.
Despite the chaos of the game, I'm choosing to take control. The Lord has given us freedom to make choices and starting today I'm going to:
1. Drink less coffee: I was slamming down about 8 cups a day!
2. Get more sleep: I was sliding by about about 4-5 hours per night.
3. Accomplish more at work: Put the phone down, social media aside & put on some motivating music.
4. Sit and stand taller: I really don't want a hunch back by the time I'm 50.
5. Make healthier choices all the time: Even on cheat days!
6. Listen to your body: Achy muscles, tired brain and hungry (or full) belly.
7. Make time for the important things: Journaling, prayer, naps, friends & relaxing!
8. Vitamins: I finally went to Costco, after putting it off for months, so I'm fully stocked!
It's time for me to realize that even when things seem so out of control, God has got everything in his hands. I'm excited to see what this week brings!
HAPPY MONDAY!
Monday, September 23, 2013
Friday, May 3, 2013
You Are a Force of Change
Last night I received the news that one of my dear friends and gone to be Jesus. He had been in a coma for almost a week and as his sister said, he had "an army of prayers" behind him. I won't lie and pretend we were best friends. Truly, that was not the case at all. I hadn't seen him in years. As we got older, we lost fell out of touch, but somehow I always managed to hear updates about his life. I mean really, it's hard to completely forget about your first crush that bought you flowers... :)
Most recently, M had become a father to a sweet baby boy whose life will never be the same. And while my world isn't thrown upside down, it surely has been shaken.
With age, I've realized that regardless of the interaction, be it big or small, you have the chance to shape someone's life. One decision you make may take away or add to someone else's puzzle. Be it direct or indirect, you are a force of change.
So with that, be thoughtful. It's time each of us understands our ability to impact the lives of others. Your smile, kind words, anger, brashness or sweet glance might cause some sort of alteration or affirmation.
M, you always hold a very special place in my heart. Thank you for teaching me to smile a little bigger and love even harder...
Most recently, M had become a father to a sweet baby boy whose life will never be the same. And while my world isn't thrown upside down, it surely has been shaken.
With age, I've realized that regardless of the interaction, be it big or small, you have the chance to shape someone's life. One decision you make may take away or add to someone else's puzzle. Be it direct or indirect, you are a force of change.
So with that, be thoughtful. It's time each of us understands our ability to impact the lives of others. Your smile, kind words, anger, brashness or sweet glance might cause some sort of alteration or affirmation.
M, you always hold a very special place in my heart. Thank you for teaching me to smile a little bigger and love even harder...
Thursday, April 25, 2013
Thursday, April 18, 2013
What's Your Sign?
I've never been into horoscopes. In fact, the last time I looked at mine I was probably in 8th grade reading 17 Magazine, pretending I understood what it all meant. While I'm nearly 10 years older and wiser [haha], I still can't wrap my head around where they come up with stuff. Side note: Whose job is it? I wonder what they do all day long!
One of my best friends and I like to gchat on and off throughout the day. While complaints may stream across that tiny little box now and again, I must admit we're a pretty upbeat and positive duo. Yesterday I shared with her a blog I'd come across that had things to stop doing in your 20s and she told me I should check my horoscope. After browsing Elle's zodiac section, I may or may not have been dumbfounded and captivated. Is someone following me with a hidden camera to write the daily and profile Pisces sections? But really...
What's your sign? Is your horoscope spot-on today?
I have a feeling checking this is going to become one of my repetitious daily tasks! #addictivepersonality
HAPPY THURSDAY!
One of my best friends and I like to gchat on and off throughout the day. While complaints may stream across that tiny little box now and again, I must admit we're a pretty upbeat and positive duo. Yesterday I shared with her a blog I'd come across that had things to stop doing in your 20s and she told me I should check my horoscope. After browsing Elle's zodiac section, I may or may not have been dumbfounded and captivated. Is someone following me with a hidden camera to write the daily and profile Pisces sections? But really...
What's your sign? Is your horoscope spot-on today?
I have a feeling checking this is going to become one of my repetitious daily tasks! #addictivepersonality
HAPPY THURSDAY!
Wednesday, April 17, 2013
Inspire
Foreword: I have a little problem with blogging. Sometimes stringing letters and words together on the keyboard is just too easy. Not easy because I have so many wonderful ideas, but sometimes I feel like it's too simple to repeat a post I may have created days, weeks or months ago. But really, when ideas resurface, we should acknowledge that the occurrence reveals importance... So today, regardless of whether or not if I've posted about it 30 times or none, my focus is on inspiring others...
Life can seem monotonous, right? Maybe you pack the same lunch each day [I do] or hit the gym/workout facility at the same time Monday-Friday [guilty] or maybe you even do the same tasks over and over again at work all day long. Regardless of what may seem mundane, you are given the chance to inspire others each day, both near and far. Some may feel encouraged by a deep blog post and others might be spurred my their coworker at the cubicle next to them. Wherever and whenever it may be, YOU have the chance to influence others each day.
Maybe you choose to do so by smiling more, complimenting more frequently [with positive intentions, of course], asking questions about others' lives or calling your friend that is a thousand miles away. It might take extra strength, but maybe you do the extra push up or squat during your workout, eat a healthy meal, hold the door for someone... The possibilities are endless. Whatever it may be, I encourage you to think about how you might inspire someone today. With the same token, allow yourself to be edified by others, for I believe no interaction is an accident.
Stay tuned to see how I've been sincerely encouraged by those around me lately!
HAPPY WEDNESDAY!
Life can seem monotonous, right? Maybe you pack the same lunch each day [I do] or hit the gym/workout facility at the same time Monday-Friday [guilty] or maybe you even do the same tasks over and over again at work all day long. Regardless of what may seem mundane, you are given the chance to inspire others each day, both near and far. Some may feel encouraged by a deep blog post and others might be spurred my their coworker at the cubicle next to them. Wherever and whenever it may be, YOU have the chance to influence others each day.
Maybe you choose to do so by smiling more, complimenting more frequently [with positive intentions, of course], asking questions about others' lives or calling your friend that is a thousand miles away. It might take extra strength, but maybe you do the extra push up or squat during your workout, eat a healthy meal, hold the door for someone... The possibilities are endless. Whatever it may be, I encourage you to think about how you might inspire someone today. With the same token, allow yourself to be edified by others, for I believe no interaction is an accident.
Stay tuned to see how I've been sincerely encouraged by those around me lately!
HAPPY WEDNESDAY!
Tuesday, April 16, 2013
Just Count Them
A few weeks ago it hit me. I am blessed. Although this isn't news to me, I was reminded that at various times in our lives, we are going to count our blessings differently.
I was talking with two of my dear friends that I hadn't seen in a while. In may ways, the three of us are the same. We graduated in May from four-year institutions and have been fortunate enough to put our education to use. A has been working in a competitive internship utilizing her event planning skills, K spent the summer in the Big Apple using her business marketing background, while I've been in a new job for six weeks, putting my journalism and communications strengths to work.
In may ways though, we are very different. I'm secured in a job that I'm capable of doing each day, with room for improvement and expansion of the position. K & A are currently interviewing for new jobs with phenomenal and exciting companies - people who squeal with excitement if they heard the names of the places - I did! Although they might be frustrated when they're forced to take another job interview, as opposed to a accepting a formal offer, I'm overwhelmed with new, daunting tasks from my boss.
You see, each situation will yield varying assurance or stress. Each of us has the chance to spin a negative moment into a positive. For that reason, I believe we should count and acknowledge each blessing, regardless its size, shape or worldly value.
I can't force someone to acknowledge each blessing they have or have had, but I can promise to take a look into what I've overlooked in my own life. My hope is that you too will realize that each gift from above is meant to shape you into the woman or man you've been called to be. When you become overwhelmed, grab a sticky note and pen... Let your mind run wild as you recount the unfortunate moment that changed your day, or may life. Recall the little things like the happy barista that made your coffee, the chance to lay in bed for an extra give minutes, a good hug from a friend, the delicious lunch you mad... we know the list has potential to waste an entire pad of sticky notes!
Regardless of what happens today, remember that YOU are BLESSED.
HAPPY TUESDAY!
I was talking with two of my dear friends that I hadn't seen in a while. In may ways, the three of us are the same. We graduated in May from four-year institutions and have been fortunate enough to put our education to use. A has been working in a competitive internship utilizing her event planning skills, K spent the summer in the Big Apple using her business marketing background, while I've been in a new job for six weeks, putting my journalism and communications strengths to work.
In may ways though, we are very different. I'm secured in a job that I'm capable of doing each day, with room for improvement and expansion of the position. K & A are currently interviewing for new jobs with phenomenal and exciting companies - people who squeal with excitement if they heard the names of the places - I did! Although they might be frustrated when they're forced to take another job interview, as opposed to a accepting a formal offer, I'm overwhelmed with new, daunting tasks from my boss.
You see, each situation will yield varying assurance or stress. Each of us has the chance to spin a negative moment into a positive. For that reason, I believe we should count and acknowledge each blessing, regardless its size, shape or worldly value.
I can't force someone to acknowledge each blessing they have or have had, but I can promise to take a look into what I've overlooked in my own life. My hope is that you too will realize that each gift from above is meant to shape you into the woman or man you've been called to be. When you become overwhelmed, grab a sticky note and pen... Let your mind run wild as you recount the unfortunate moment that changed your day, or may life. Recall the little things like the happy barista that made your coffee, the chance to lay in bed for an extra give minutes, a good hug from a friend, the delicious lunch you mad... we know the list has potential to waste an entire pad of sticky notes!
Regardless of what happens today, remember that YOU are BLESSED.
HAPPY TUESDAY!
Monday, April 15, 2013
May You Be the Prettiest of Them All
I've had a really hard time balancing work, Pure Barre, homework and a social life so that I can find time to blog, but a few words is better than nothing. Something I've realized since starting my new job is that regardless of whether or not I love or dislike my hair, outfit or makeup for the day, the following statement is true...
Happy Monday! May you be the prettiest of them all today!
Happy Monday! May you be the prettiest of them all today!
Friday, March 22, 2013
TGIF!
I'm loving my new mug! This is my second Quoteable Mug and I love the concept! No better way to start the day than with a cup of coffee and inspiration!
Monday, March 11, 2013
New Job Monday
Today I begin a new career adventure. I'm thrilled to say that I now see new possibilities in places I never thought were possible. I cannot wait to see where this journey takes me.
Happy Monday!
Happy Monday!
Monday, March 4, 2013
Magnificent Monday
If anyone saw me right now they'd think I was nuts! For the past 30 minutes, I've been walking around my house with a huge smile on my face - you'd think I'd kissed a boy for the first time or been accepted to my dream school. While neither of those things happened, there's just something about today that has be feeling extra positive.
Maybe I'm coming off a vacation high. My boyfriend and I just got home from a four-day trip, consisting of Disneyland, California Adventure, visiting the Bay, and spending time with family and friends. Although the vacation strayed me away from my healthy eating habits and Pure Barre addiction, I had the BEST time. Mike and I needed a little getaway.
It's been about four months since I've blogged, or spent any time religiously browsing others' pages. The last time I did so, I felt that I was writing for someone else - the comments, the views, etc. - rather than myself. Today, I'm back, not to captivate an audience, but rather to document the happiness of this morning, regardless of whether it inspires anyone else, or just myself.
Today I'm grateful for the little things:
- Pure Barre
- Sweet friends
- The ability spend a little extra money on healthy groceries to fuel my body
- Grad school
- A new, full-time job (I start one week from today!)
- An amazing family
- The kindest boyfriend
... and so many other things!
HAPPY MONDAY!
Maybe I'm coming off a vacation high. My boyfriend and I just got home from a four-day trip, consisting of Disneyland, California Adventure, visiting the Bay, and spending time with family and friends. Although the vacation strayed me away from my healthy eating habits and Pure Barre addiction, I had the BEST time. Mike and I needed a little getaway.
It's been about four months since I've blogged, or spent any time religiously browsing others' pages. The last time I did so, I felt that I was writing for someone else - the comments, the views, etc. - rather than myself. Today, I'm back, not to captivate an audience, but rather to document the happiness of this morning, regardless of whether it inspires anyone else, or just myself.
Today I'm grateful for the little things:
- Pure Barre
- Sweet friends
- The ability spend a little extra money on healthy groceries to fuel my body
- Grad school
- A new, full-time job (I start one week from today!)
- An amazing family
- The kindest boyfriend
... and so many other things!
HAPPY MONDAY!
The first photo from our trip - the Happiest Place on Earth!
Wednesday, November 7, 2012
I'm Coming Home Again...
I'm traveling again this weekend, but this time I feel like I'm going right back home. Thursday evening I'll be leaving for Tucson for the University of Arizona Homecoming. I do work for the UA so part of my trip is work-related, but Saturday I get to celebrate with all my friends and sorority sisters who've "come home" to our great university.
Last year, homecoming was one of the few times during the fall semester that I was able to relax and enjoy time with my friends. School, work and my commitment to the Fiesta Bowl kept me extremely busy. This year, again, I'm really looking forward to decking out in red and blue, and enjoying the precious time with my dear friends.
Here's what last year's homecoming looked like... I'm counting down the days until Saturday!
Last year, homecoming was one of the few times during the fall semester that I was able to relax and enjoy time with my friends. School, work and my commitment to the Fiesta Bowl kept me extremely busy. This year, again, I'm really looking forward to decking out in red and blue, and enjoying the precious time with my dear friends.
Here's what last year's homecoming looked like... I'm counting down the days until Saturday!
Bear Down Friday with my old roomie!
Love my Chi Omegas!
6 a.m. at Frog with one of my bests!
Stopped by my work tailgate to say hello to my co-workers.
The best tailgate with the best of friends!
HOMECOMING 2012... LET'S DO THIS!
Monday, November 5, 2012
Mindful Monday: Strive for Progress
Hi all! I don't have much time to blog this morning, but I do have some exciting posts in the workS! You can look forward to reading about my weekend at Pure Barre instructor training in Denver and my experiences and advice for those dating a medical school student.
This week I'll....
This week I'll....
Thursday, November 1, 2012
My Thursday Agenda
Happy November.... Wait, what? Even though it seems like we're still in August, we're just two months shy of the new year! I never would have thought this year would have passed so quickly. I'm not saying I dislike that the holiday season is here, but it definitely snuck up on me.
I have a quite a bit to do before I leave for Pure Barre instructor training in Denver tomorrow. But I will say, packing for a "work out" trip is so much easier than packing for any other excursion. I will be living in Lululemon and my Uggs for the weekend - I'm definitely not complaining!
I need to be productive today, so I've made a to-do list!
- Read blogs
- Pray like crazy for Mike's huge med school exam
- Work (8 a.m.- 4 p.m.)
- Jesus Calling devotional
- Practice the Pure Barre warm up (I have to show it to the instructor tomorrow morning!)
- Laundry
- Shop for snacks
- Eat healthy (Someone hold me to this - we have so much leftover Halloween candy!)
- Pack for Denver
- Paint nails
I'm sure my list with grow throughout the day! I hope you have a wonderful Nov. 1.
XO
I have a quite a bit to do before I leave for Pure Barre instructor training in Denver tomorrow. But I will say, packing for a "work out" trip is so much easier than packing for any other excursion. I will be living in Lululemon and my Uggs for the weekend - I'm definitely not complaining!
I need to be productive today, so I've made a to-do list!
- Read blogs
- Pray like crazy for Mike's huge med school exam
- Work (8 a.m.- 4 p.m.)
- Jesus Calling devotional
- Practice the Pure Barre warm up (I have to show it to the instructor tomorrow morning!)
- Laundry
- Shop for snacks
- Eat healthy (Someone hold me to this - we have so much leftover Halloween candy!)
- Pack for Denver
- Paint nails
I'm sure my list with grow throughout the day! I hope you have a wonderful Nov. 1.
XO
Monday, October 29, 2012
Mindful Monday: Stop Starting Over
I hope you had a wonderful weekend! Mine was spent with a little bit of work, dinner with Mike at Blanco, a brief appearance at a Halloween party, a UA Wildcat win (this completely made my Saturday), seeing one of my dear friends that was in town from Chicago, shopping with my best friend, homework and Pure Barre. Notice the word "run" is missing from that last sentence. Well, as soon as I saw this Pin, I had to share it with you all. This week I'm going to be mindful of the following because it's so incredibly true...
The only way for me to really get back into running is to do simply that, START RUNNING! Although I won't be able to do so tonight because of my grad class, I hope to lace up my shoes tomorrow. Not to mention, Pure Barre instructor training is this weekend. I am SO excited! This will be an intense week of fitness. HAPPY MONDAY, XO!
Thursday, October 25, 2012
"An Open Letter to Ann Coulter" - WOW!
My words cannot do this letter written to Ann Coulter by John Franklin Stephens justice. Everyone should read and reflect.
http://specialolympicsblog.wordpress.com/2012/10/23/an-open-letter-to-ann-coulter/
To me, this defines courage, intelligence and passion.
http://specialolympicsblog.wordpress.com/2012/10/23/an-open-letter-to-ann-coulter/
To me, this defines courage, intelligence and passion.
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Hitting the Pavement: Day 1
Yesterday I hit the pavement! It's been just over six months since my physician told me to take an extended break from running. If you've been reading for a while, you'll remember that I was not able to compete in the Mount Lemon Half Marathon in April because of this injury, which came about from overuse.
Although I've been sick, my cough finally subsided a few days ago. I figured yesterday was the first day to lace up my shoes and give it a try, since we had an evening work event and I didn't have to be in the office until late. I was very nervous and worried that I'd make it a mile and end up walking home. Regardless, I laced up my Mizunos, started up my Garmin, readied my iPod shuffle and was off!
While it was not easy, I was still able to keep my regular pace! Yes, I did sound like I could barely breathe, but I made it. Woohoo! And even better news, I haven't felt any pain in the side of my knee. Praise God!
As long as future runs go similiarly, I should be able to run in my fifth P.F. Chang's Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon in January. I made this mental promise to myself that I'd run this race each year, until I was no longer able to run.... So cross your fingers for me! I'm not so sure Mike will be running with me this year like last year, but I love the Chang's race experience so much! Also, another instructor from Pure Barre is planning to run it, so I'm hoping we can be race buddies! If you'll remember, I am a social runner rather than a hardcore competitor.... Although I do have some edge!
I hope I'll be able to give positive running updates within the next week or so! Each time, I'm just going to have to tell myself...
Although I've been sick, my cough finally subsided a few days ago. I figured yesterday was the first day to lace up my shoes and give it a try, since we had an evening work event and I didn't have to be in the office until late. I was very nervous and worried that I'd make it a mile and end up walking home. Regardless, I laced up my Mizunos, started up my Garmin, readied my iPod shuffle and was off!
While it was not easy, I was still able to keep my regular pace! Yes, I did sound like I could barely breathe, but I made it. Woohoo! And even better news, I haven't felt any pain in the side of my knee. Praise God!
As long as future runs go similiarly, I should be able to run in my fifth P.F. Chang's Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon in January. I made this mental promise to myself that I'd run this race each year, until I was no longer able to run.... So cross your fingers for me! I'm not so sure Mike will be running with me this year like last year, but I love the Chang's race experience so much! Also, another instructor from Pure Barre is planning to run it, so I'm hoping we can be race buddies! If you'll remember, I am a social runner rather than a hardcore competitor.... Although I do have some edge!
I hope I'll be able to give positive running updates within the next week or so! Each time, I'm just going to have to tell myself...
Monday, October 22, 2012
Mindful Monday: Actions Speak Louder Than Words
Before I jump into "Mindful Monday," I have to bring up something I think about frequently. Do you ever feel like you're writing the same post twice? Often, I find myself jotting down ideas on my iPhone, and then wonder if I've already written about the same theme before. Does this happen to anyone else? Sometimes I still feel called to write about the subject, like today, and disregard the fact that a similar message may be tucked away on by blog in a post a few months back...
---
Actions speak louder than words. Simple enough, right? My mom started telling me this phrase at such a young age, I feel like it has always been in my repertoire. But just as different items, words and feelings have different meanings with age, so does this important five-word sentence.
As women, many of us struggle to live a healthy lifestyle. As we are commonly compared to the models on TV and in the magazines, we try to eat less, workout more and find motivation to be thin. Am I right?
After many years of body image issues, I'm finally at a place where I feel more confident and happy with who I am. But, I personally believe making goals is positive, so I do have something that I'm working toward. Since starting Pure Barre in July, I truly feel more toned and lean, although I still have my "problem area." Unlike many of my friends, I've never had had a flat (or semi-flat) stomach. Call it my weakness for sweets, pizza and Mexican food, but that little pooch just won't go away.
Although I tell my co-workers, family and closest friends that I'm working so hard to eat healthy, I still continue to overindulge and have far too many "cheat days." Of course I believe in treating yourself every once in a while, but that word has become overused in my diet vocabulary. It's time for me to step up and really pursue my goal.
So consider this my last use of words, as inspiration to make healthy actions my norm.
This week I commit to think about food as fuel rather than a luxury, focusing on the energy it will provide me to get through each day!
HAPPY MONDAY, XO!
Thursday, October 18, 2012
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
Insta-Updates
As I work may way back into the blogging world, I figure there's no better way than to update you on what's been happening in my life. In a nut shell, I started graduate school, my boyfriend started medical school, I've been juggling two part-time jobs for Arizona universities and have moved into a house with my twin brothers. And I can't forget the fact that my best friend is now a married woman. In between those monumental moments there's been joy, tears, laughter and more!
So here are a few Instagram photos to show you exactly what I've been up to!
So here are a few Instagram photos to show you exactly what I've been up to!
My very best friend's wedding!
Mike's White Coat Ceremony - love my future physician!
My life in computers: Two jobs & a personal life [sort of]!
I've been striving to live in the moment, instead of planning too far in advance!
And I'm also working to improve my decision-making skills. I'm very indecisive!
I hope you have a beautiful Wednesday! We're half way through the work week! :) That's something to smile about! XO
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
Back Again!
It's been a long time since I've posted or signed into Blogger, since August 5 to be exact. I know that I won't be able to catch you up on everything that's happened since then, but I do want to get back into the swing of blogging.
There's something so wonderful about giving yourself twenty minutes a day to express exactly what's on your mind. Working two jobs (I'm adding a third) and going to school leaves me following the demands of others, rather than marching to the beat of my own drum.
I'm not going to promise myself that I'll blog every day, but I'm going to make an effort to spend more time writing and reading everyone's blogs that I love so much.
Speaking of love... Here's something I have to look forward to in 19 days! A better explanation to come soon!
I'm going to Denver for Pure Barre instructor training! I cannot wait!
HAPPY TUESDAY, XO!
There's something so wonderful about giving yourself twenty minutes a day to express exactly what's on your mind. Working two jobs (I'm adding a third) and going to school leaves me following the demands of others, rather than marching to the beat of my own drum.
I'm not going to promise myself that I'll blog every day, but I'm going to make an effort to spend more time writing and reading everyone's blogs that I love so much.
Speaking of love... Here's something I have to look forward to in 19 days! A better explanation to come soon!
I'm going to Denver for Pure Barre instructor training! I cannot wait!
HAPPY TUESDAY, XO!
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