That is a song lyric. However, it is how I feel. I'm sick without my mommy at home. I'm sick worrying about why it is taking so long for her to get better...I'm in pain thinking that there has to be something more I could have done, I'm just hurting.
I hurt because I feel like I'm neglecting my kids by going to exercise after work and then going to the hospital until visiting hours end. True they are with their dad who is a super-parent compared to my skills...but I still feel like I'm doing them a disservice.
I just can't leave until they force me. I can't stand to see her with wires coming out of every availabe spot. I'm a wuss when it comes to the people I love.
I'm forcing myself to exercise today, because Lord knows my heart isn't in it. I just want my mommy to come home so I can lay my head on her belly while she strokes my hair.
It totally sucks that she will be spending her 50th birthday layed up in the hospital. I wish I could afford to pay for her to have lap band surgery. I can't...but I can teach her my new healthy living habits...we will not get to this place again.
I spoke with the Dr. today. She has a severe ear infection along with a serious case of pneumonia. Her blood sugar is still wacky. They can't get it under control because they can't give her the amount of insulin she needs, because they have to clear up the ear infection and the pneumonia. Sigh!!!
Thanks for the well wishes. I told her everyone was praying her well.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Mommy update
My mom was admitted to the hospital around 11:45 last night. She has pneumonia, as well as DKA (acid build up in her body). They were able to stablize her blood sugar. She is resting comfortably...in between the poking and prodding.
Thanks for all your well wishes. This too shall pass.
I was so tired last night...and I hadn't eaten since lunch...so I had a late night burger from Jack n the box. Totally gross..but I needed something. I plan on sweating that burger out tonight on the dreadmill.
Hope everyone is having a great day.
Thanks for all your well wishes. This too shall pass.
I was so tired last night...and I hadn't eaten since lunch...so I had a late night burger from Jack n the box. Totally gross..but I needed something. I plan on sweating that burger out tonight on the dreadmill.
Hope everyone is having a great day.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Emergency Room Blogging
Yup...I'm hanging out in the emergency room. Let me just say some of these male nurses are super HOT!! They make me want to consider a serious career change. Especially if I can look at eyecandy all damn day.
Seriously though, I got home late today, because I did an hour Zumba class. I went to check on my mom and she wasn't doing much better. When I checked her blood sugar it was much higher than it should have been. Add that with shortness of breath and a rapid heart beat and I knew she was systematic (my grandfather whom I lived with was also diabetic.) Oh yeah and some how she had a fever too. So I got her showered and dressed...which is no easy because my mommy is short and chubby. LOL.
She is on an IV now...they are trying to get her blood sugar under control. When we got to the ER it was over 400. If they can stabilize her blood sugar she can go home. If not she will have a wonderful stay at the hospital. Not my thing. I hate hospitals.
By the way...all while I was getting my mom ready I was cleaning her room. She called me anal. She said I can't believe you are trying to clean and vacuum...when we need to leave now. LOL. I can't help it people. I clean my bathrooms every day but Sunday (I sprayed it down before I left.)
My mom is a trooper...we have been here before so I know she will be fine. Also I am a true believer is God's grace and mercy...so I'm not worried at all. But y'all are my family so I thought I would share.
BTW...I kicked ass in Zumba today. The instructor was some hungry looking woman...who worked my nerves...but I showed her this big girl has what it takes. LOL
Seriously though, I got home late today, because I did an hour Zumba class. I went to check on my mom and she wasn't doing much better. When I checked her blood sugar it was much higher than it should have been. Add that with shortness of breath and a rapid heart beat and I knew she was systematic (my grandfather whom I lived with was also diabetic.) Oh yeah and some how she had a fever too. So I got her showered and dressed...which is no easy because my mommy is short and chubby. LOL.
She is on an IV now...they are trying to get her blood sugar under control. When we got to the ER it was over 400. If they can stabilize her blood sugar she can go home. If not she will have a wonderful stay at the hospital. Not my thing. I hate hospitals.
By the way...all while I was getting my mom ready I was cleaning her room. She called me anal. She said I can't believe you are trying to clean and vacuum...when we need to leave now. LOL. I can't help it people. I clean my bathrooms every day but Sunday (I sprayed it down before I left.)
My mom is a trooper...we have been here before so I know she will be fine. Also I am a true believer is God's grace and mercy...so I'm not worried at all. But y'all are my family so I thought I would share.
BTW...I kicked ass in Zumba today. The instructor was some hungry looking woman...who worked my nerves...but I showed her this big girl has what it takes. LOL
Sunday, March 13, 2011
I'm tired!!
The weekend was so exhausting I'm looking forward to the work wee so that I can get some rest.
My mom is still not feeling well...which means lots of sleep for her...and no help with the kids for me.
Selfish...I know...I'm an only child so that's my excuse (today anyway). No, I hate when my mom isn't feeling well. I'm hoping she is feeling better by Tuesday, or we are going to make another trip to the Dr.
My kiddos are a hnadful to say the least. They don't usually annoy me...unfortunately this was not one of those times. I swear those monsters drove me crazy this weekend. Actually...it was more the non-stop crying of the baby. He wants to be held constantly....I can't do that. I like to keep moving. So we had a rough couple of days.
New Goals for the week.
Twice a day workouts. (I'm gonna give that morning workout thing a try.)
Turn a cartwheel (I mean a cartwheel that looks like a cartwheel. I looked like a fat girl having a seisure..not pretty).
I wish everyone a happy week.
My mom is still not feeling well...which means lots of sleep for her...and no help with the kids for me.
Selfish...I know...I'm an only child so that's my excuse (today anyway). No, I hate when my mom isn't feeling well. I'm hoping she is feeling better by Tuesday, or we are going to make another trip to the Dr.
My kiddos are a hnadful to say the least. They don't usually annoy me...unfortunately this was not one of those times. I swear those monsters drove me crazy this weekend. Actually...it was more the non-stop crying of the baby. He wants to be held constantly....I can't do that. I like to keep moving. So we had a rough couple of days.
New Goals for the week.
Twice a day workouts. (I'm gonna give that morning workout thing a try.)
Turn a cartwheel (I mean a cartwheel that looks like a cartwheel. I looked like a fat girl having a seisure..not pretty).
I wish everyone a happy week.
Friday, March 11, 2011
BYOC - Hop on the Sexy Crazy Train
BYOC – Bring Your Own Crazy - *usually* 5 harmless questions we answer to get to know each other better. (today we’re gonna get to know each other better than our own mothers do I’m afraid) Also used as a break for your blogging brain. Copy and paste if you dare.
Try to Enjoy!
1. What is your favorite position for sex?
There are too many to name. However, I will try. Reverse cowgirl is always at the top of the list...then of course there is the good ole doggy style...and my all time fav requires great stretch. Not sure what it's called, but I know your legs are damn near behind your head and he has unlimited access to all that I've been blessed with...such a lucky man.
2. How many orgasms have you had in a 24 hour period?
I have no freaking idea!! I've never counted. Are these solo orgasms or with a partner. Hell I don't know.
3. Do you like to be spanked?
It depends on the sex of the person I'm with...if I'm with a woman yes...with a man no. However, I love to give pain. I so want to be a professional Dominatrix!! How fun would that be? I can see it now...leather chaps...cute thigh high leather boots...and a whip...OMG...I'm going to do it.
4. Do you think it’s ever okay to fake an orgasm – and when/why? (for real – this is a serious ? a follower wants to know)
Damn skippy it's okay!! Some men need their ego stroked. They need to feel like they can take you to the mountaintop every time. Sorry buddy, but sometimes I can get their quicker and faster without you being in the room. LOL
5. Thank God those are done. Repeat question #5. Summarize your week in blogland and in real life.
Blogland has been good. Some of my blog family is having a rough week. I think most of us have had some battles with the crud this week. Barb got a good nights sleep..which we all have been praying for. I actually managed to post more than once this week...so I'm geeked!!
Real life...my mom has not been feeling well...so I have to go straight home and care for her and the kids...which has resulted in little to no exercise all week. My water intake has been horrible this week. Not sure why...but it has. I'm on an emotional upswing this week...which I'm really happy about. I still have not found a therapist that I feel comfortable with...I know she is out there.
1. What is your favorite position for sex?
There are too many to name. However, I will try. Reverse cowgirl is always at the top of the list...then of course there is the good ole doggy style...and my all time fav requires great stretch. Not sure what it's called, but I know your legs are damn near behind your head and he has unlimited access to all that I've been blessed with...such a lucky man.
2. How many orgasms have you had in a 24 hour period?
I have no freaking idea!! I've never counted. Are these solo orgasms or with a partner. Hell I don't know.
3. Do you like to be spanked?
It depends on the sex of the person I'm with...if I'm with a woman yes...with a man no. However, I love to give pain. I so want to be a professional Dominatrix!! How fun would that be? I can see it now...leather chaps...cute thigh high leather boots...and a whip...OMG...I'm going to do it.
4. Do you think it’s ever okay to fake an orgasm – and when/why? (for real – this is a serious ? a follower wants to know)
Damn skippy it's okay!! Some men need their ego stroked. They need to feel like they can take you to the mountaintop every time. Sorry buddy, but sometimes I can get their quicker and faster without you being in the room. LOL
5. Thank God those are done. Repeat question #5. Summarize your week in blogland and in real life.
Blogland has been good. Some of my blog family is having a rough week. I think most of us have had some battles with the crud this week. Barb got a good nights sleep..which we all have been praying for. I actually managed to post more than once this week...so I'm geeked!!
Real life...my mom has not been feeling well...so I have to go straight home and care for her and the kids...which has resulted in little to no exercise all week. My water intake has been horrible this week. Not sure why...but it has. I'm on an emotional upswing this week...which I'm really happy about. I still have not found a therapist that I feel comfortable with...I know she is out there.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
The Curvy Girl's Workout
This is a workout I do several times a week. I enjoy it. I'm sharing it with you all just in case you want to change it up a bit. This is a low impact workout for me, as I still have some knew pain. I know many of you are pass this but it's a great workout none the less. I found it in the November issue of Essence magazine.
1. Chair Squat - stand in front of a char with feet shoulder width apart and toes facing straight ahead. Clasp your hands in front of your chest. With your weight in your heels, bend your knees and lower your body until your butt touches the chair. then press through your heels to return to standing. Looking at the ceiling helps keep your weight in your heels to protect your knees. Targets: Glutes and thighs.
2. Triceps Dip - Sit on the edge of a chair with your hands gripping the sides. Keep legs bent and shoulder width apart. Extend your arms straight and move your hips forward and off the chair. now bend your arms to 90 degrees with elbows pointing back and lower your body. Squeeze the back of the arms and return to start. Targets: Triceps and core
3. Leg Lift - Get into push-up position, holding the sides of a chair's seat and keeping your elbows straight but not locked. Bend your left knee and bring it toward your chest. Then extend it behind you, keeping your helps flat, and lift until the side of your glutes contract. Do all reps on one leg, then switch. Targets: buttocks, lower back and lower abs.
4. Chair push-up - an inclines makes this move easier than floor push-ups. Place your hands on the sides of a chair's seat. Keeping your arms straight, walk your legs back behind you until your weight is on the balls of your feet. Now bend your elbows, lowering your chest toward the seat. Then push back up. Targets: arms, chest, back and core
5. Toe touch - wrap up this workout by taking the moves to the floor. Lie on your back with your legs extended straight up toward the ceiling and your feet flexed. Extend your arms toward your legs. now lift your shoulders off the mat and reach your right hand toward your right foot ten times and your left hand toward your left foot ten times. You can use your non reaching hand to cradle your neck for support. Concentrate on working your stomach muscles to move upward. Targets: upper abs and obliques
6. Butterfly crunch - lie on your back with the soles of your feet touching and your knees pointing out to the sides. Place your palms together in a prayer position or ponting your fingers toward your toes. Now focus on using just your abs to lift your head and shoulders off the floor as you perform a crunch. If your having trouble or find this move too hard, hook your feet under a couch or chair to give you a bit of leverage. Targets: Lower abs
1. Chair Squat - stand in front of a char with feet shoulder width apart and toes facing straight ahead. Clasp your hands in front of your chest. With your weight in your heels, bend your knees and lower your body until your butt touches the chair. then press through your heels to return to standing. Looking at the ceiling helps keep your weight in your heels to protect your knees. Targets: Glutes and thighs.
2. Triceps Dip - Sit on the edge of a chair with your hands gripping the sides. Keep legs bent and shoulder width apart. Extend your arms straight and move your hips forward and off the chair. now bend your arms to 90 degrees with elbows pointing back and lower your body. Squeeze the back of the arms and return to start. Targets: Triceps and core
3. Leg Lift - Get into push-up position, holding the sides of a chair's seat and keeping your elbows straight but not locked. Bend your left knee and bring it toward your chest. Then extend it behind you, keeping your helps flat, and lift until the side of your glutes contract. Do all reps on one leg, then switch. Targets: buttocks, lower back and lower abs.
4. Chair push-up - an inclines makes this move easier than floor push-ups. Place your hands on the sides of a chair's seat. Keeping your arms straight, walk your legs back behind you until your weight is on the balls of your feet. Now bend your elbows, lowering your chest toward the seat. Then push back up. Targets: arms, chest, back and core
5. Toe touch - wrap up this workout by taking the moves to the floor. Lie on your back with your legs extended straight up toward the ceiling and your feet flexed. Extend your arms toward your legs. now lift your shoulders off the mat and reach your right hand toward your right foot ten times and your left hand toward your left foot ten times. You can use your non reaching hand to cradle your neck for support. Concentrate on working your stomach muscles to move upward. Targets: upper abs and obliques
6. Butterfly crunch - lie on your back with the soles of your feet touching and your knees pointing out to the sides. Place your palms together in a prayer position or ponting your fingers toward your toes. Now focus on using just your abs to lift your head and shoulders off the floor as you perform a crunch. If your having trouble or find this move too hard, hook your feet under a couch or chair to give you a bit of leverage. Targets: Lower abs
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
NSV
I work in a prison. I usually wear business attire to work...and a long jacket, because I get so tired of officers and convicts alike staring at my ass. I know it's big I don't need you watching it move. At any rate the last two weeks have been dressed down weeks...which means jeans. Well I thought I would pull out some of the lane bryant size 4 (22/24) jeans I owned and hadn't worn in sometime, because I enjoy breathing and hate the pain of to tight jeans. I mean really...to tight jeans are bound to result in a yeast infection...and I don't know about you...but I am not a fan of being yeasty.
Any who...the damn jeans fit!! Not only did they fit but I got saggy ass! You should have seen me enjoying my saggy ass jeans. So now I plan on wearing them until they literally fall off.
Just thought I would share with my family.
Any who...the damn jeans fit!! Not only did they fit but I got saggy ass! You should have seen me enjoying my saggy ass jeans. So now I plan on wearing them until they literally fall off.
Just thought I would share with my family.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
I want to be a stripper...again!!!
Okay..I don't really want to be a stripper. However, I wouldn't mind getting down to the size I was when I was a stripper. I was totally fucking HAWT!!
Don't freak out...I only did it for 3 weeks. I wanted a car...my mother said no...so I made it happen. The pay was great! LOL
Anyway...in my "glory" days of stripping I was shaped like a big butt coca-cola bottle. I had it going on. I mean I think I can still be a stripper on the big girl circuit...but that is not the goal.
I know I will need to lose close to 150 lbs to be back at that shape.
So I'm brushing up on my skills...dropping it like its hot all over the house....it's so freeing...I wonder if I could still climb a pole...just a thought.
Don't freak out...I only did it for 3 weeks. I wanted a car...my mother said no...so I made it happen. The pay was great! LOL
Anyway...in my "glory" days of stripping I was shaped like a big butt coca-cola bottle. I had it going on. I mean I think I can still be a stripper on the big girl circuit...but that is not the goal.
I know I will need to lose close to 150 lbs to be back at that shape.
So I'm brushing up on my skills...dropping it like its hot all over the house....it's so freeing...I wonder if I could still climb a pole...just a thought.
Breakfast is NOT the most important meal of the day!!
This is only my opinion. Seriously, I ate breakfast today for the first time in awhile. Let me just say, since that meal I have been starving. Everything I bought to hold me over throughout the day (which usually does) is gone. My yogurt...gone...orange...gone, granola...gone....chicken....gone and on and on. It's crazy I don't usually get hungry until 11:00 a.m. However, today...once that time rolled around all my food was gone. LOL
I will not eat breakfast again anytime soon. It's not even head hunger...it is stomach growling hunger. Crazy!!
I'm feeling good about my life right now. I'm loving the changes in me. My smile is even brighter. I'm so excited about the Suddenly Spring Challenge.
I've decided to step up my work outs in an effort to meet a six month weight loss goal of 50 lbs lost. I need more high energy aerobics. I'm so excited about the summer this year. I WILL wear a bathing suit.
I will not eat breakfast again anytime soon. It's not even head hunger...it is stomach growling hunger. Crazy!!
I'm feeling good about my life right now. I'm loving the changes in me. My smile is even brighter. I'm so excited about the Suddenly Spring Challenge.
I've decided to step up my work outs in an effort to meet a six month weight loss goal of 50 lbs lost. I need more high energy aerobics. I'm so excited about the summer this year. I WILL wear a bathing suit.
Sunday, March 6, 2011
New Week, New Goals
My goals for this week are pretty much the same as last week. I did not meet my goals last week, because I couldn't breathe through my damn nose. I'm back on track. Not 100% ...but I'm going in hard. The Suddenly Spring Challenge started today...I'm all about a good challenge. I just wish I new how to add the logo onto my blog.
Here are the goals
Exercise a minimum of 5 days for a minimum of 1 hour.
Prepared food for lunch and dinner for the work week.
Blog at least 5 days.
Turn a cartwheel!
Here are the goals
Exercise a minimum of 5 days for a minimum of 1 hour.
Prepared food for lunch and dinner for the work week.
Blog at least 5 days.
Turn a cartwheel!
Friday, March 4, 2011
BYOC ~ All Aboard the Crazy Train
BYOC - for any newbies here - is 5 little questions you can copy and paste to your blog and answer in an effort to give your blog brain a break and to get to know each other better! Enjoy!
1. If you could be a weather forecast, what would you be and why?
* Sunshine with possiblity of a thunderstorm. I'm usually happy and in a great mood. I will give you the shirt off my back until you piss me off. I love life...but...I'm a meany at heart. I do not give second chances. Nope...1 strike and you out. My thunderstorm starts to roar when you lie on me or try to use me...then I'm ready to beat you down.
2. Would you break the law to save a loved one?
* Been there done that send that movie a few times. That way my past life. Who I am now...a mother and a wife...HELL NO!! They are on their own. now if someone messes with my kids...I'm going to jail.
3. If Happiness was the national currency, what would make you filthy rich?
* Reading and taking pictures. Okay...having my photographs featured in a gallery or a magazine.
4. Can you sum up your life in a six word sentence? (Example: My heart continuously expands in joy.)
Fuck 'em, and feed 'em catfish!! LOL
No I can't...my life is way to complicated right now!
5. Repeat question. Summarize your week in blogland and in real life.
Blogland is always great. I've been reading...not much commenting...and only 2 post this week. I'm glad to see my blogfamily doing well.
In real life I feel like I got into a fist fight wiht Mike Tyson and lost. I can't breathe through my nose...and I'm confident I have coughed up a lung. Two of the three kids are sick....they gave me cooties!!! I only got two workouts in this week because I can't exercise if I can't breathe. LOL My eating sucks, because I can't taste food and I don't want to eat any. And I didn't get to do my cartwheel! Real life sucks right now.
1. If you could be a weather forecast, what would you be and why?
* Sunshine with possiblity of a thunderstorm. I'm usually happy and in a great mood. I will give you the shirt off my back until you piss me off. I love life...but...I'm a meany at heart. I do not give second chances. Nope...1 strike and you out. My thunderstorm starts to roar when you lie on me or try to use me...then I'm ready to beat you down.
2. Would you break the law to save a loved one?
* Been there done that send that movie a few times. That way my past life. Who I am now...a mother and a wife...HELL NO!! They are on their own. now if someone messes with my kids...I'm going to jail.
3. If Happiness was the national currency, what would make you filthy rich?
* Reading and taking pictures. Okay...having my photographs featured in a gallery or a magazine.
4. Can you sum up your life in a six word sentence? (Example: My heart continuously expands in joy.)
Fuck 'em, and feed 'em catfish!! LOL
No I can't...my life is way to complicated right now!
5. Repeat question. Summarize your week in blogland and in real life.
Blogland is always great. I've been reading...not much commenting...and only 2 post this week. I'm glad to see my blogfamily doing well.
In real life I feel like I got into a fist fight wiht Mike Tyson and lost. I can't breathe through my nose...and I'm confident I have coughed up a lung. Two of the three kids are sick....they gave me cooties!!! I only got two workouts in this week because I can't exercise if I can't breathe. LOL My eating sucks, because I can't taste food and I don't want to eat any. And I didn't get to do my cartwheel! Real life sucks right now.
Thursday, March 3, 2011
The Happiness Quest
I found the article in a magazine and I thought I would share it with my beautiful blog family. I know we all have days...when happiness is an elusive dream that we may never find. I know I do. They article shared 25 to get your happy back. I will share a few (not all) with you. It will be a lengthy post.
Inhale, exhale
It quiet your champion level worry brain learn to meditate. It forces you to be still for at least 15 minutes a day. Researchers at the University of California Davis Center for Mind and Brain found that daily meditation has been linked to higher levels of telomerase-the enzyme that combats feelings of stress and promotes a sense of well-being. another boon: Telomerase retards the cellular breakdown that least to aging preserving energy and vitality. So get cozy in a comfortable chair, close your eyes, and breathe in through your nose for five seconds, then slowly exhale through your mouth. Can't spare the full 15 minutes? Just five minutes of intentional breathing is enough to release tension from our bodies and lower blood pressure.
Turn off the small screen
Your television is one of the biggest joy stealers: A 2008 University of Maryland study showed that the unhappiest people watch six or more hours of television each day. Not only does the barrage of advertising leave you yearning for things you don't have, but the time spent cradling the remote robs you of simple everyday experiences that can tip your happy meter. Instead of sitting on the sofa watching other folks having fun, go out and find you own. Even an activity as simple as putting on your shoes and going for an afternoon stroll is a step in the right direction. Even better, take a class in something you love or join a group that will force you to engage in an enjoyable activity outside your home consistently.
Forget the gym, head for the outdoors
A good mood may be only minutes away, but your going to have to the leave the house to get it. According to researchers at England's University of Essex, light exercise done in a natural environment - such as a park, outside by a lake or even in the backyard - elevated both mood and self-esteem in participants. The best news? You don't need to work out for hours to reap the rewards. The most significant happiness spike was felt after only five minutes. And here's another reason to lace up those sneakers: We all know that regular exercise is good medicine, but did you know that it can work as well as some of the most effective antidepressants?
Retreat
Stepping away from your everyday can help you gain perspective by giving you the me time you need to relax and refocus. Think quiet countrysides or serene beaches, not clubs and bars. The idea is to be in a place that allows you to tune in to yourself. Can't manage to swing the next flight to Jamaica? Take a day off from work for a home retreat. "Carve out a period to do absolutely nothing," suggest life coach Vaorie Burton. "It might be 20 minutes to an hour. Sit or lie somewhere comfortable and pleasant and just be.
Star in your own music video
Go ahead and pump up the volume, preferably while using your hairbrush as a mic or belting out your best shower solo. Better yet-get up and dance. Whether you choose to do Zumba or simply to bust a move in your living room, you'll experience an immediate lift. It's really hard to stay somber when you're grooving to an up-tempo tune, especially one that calls back on a happy memory. That's because activities like singing and dancing power up your mood by boosting the level of the feel-good hormone serotonin in your brain.
Get yours in bed - freely and frequently
In other words, plan to pay attention to your sweet spot just as often as you can. Research conducted at Duke University showed that you can reduce your physiological age by as much as six years just by having an orgasm 200 times a year-that's nearly four times per week. Who wouldn't want to cheer about that? But there are more immediate benefits as well: When you orgasm, you also release oxytocin, a chemical that can put you in a euphoric state for hours.
Pack your own happiness kit
"You know that you're going to have a down day at some point," says Bonnie St. John, author of How Strong Women Pray and Live Your Joy. "Why not prepare a first aid kit for your emotions? Fill a box or a bag with things that you know will cheer you up." Whats in St. John's kit? "I have a picture of my teenage daughter when she was 5. I have a note my late mother wrote to me that says, 'Cherish yourself.' And chocolate is an essential." What might be the staples in your happiness kit?
Forgive
Not because the other person deserves it, but simply because you need to put down the weight of that grudge you've been nursing. And while you're at it, forgive yourself for what you think was your biggest mistake. Just let it go. FOREVER!!
Choose joy
Joy is not dependent on everything that's going on around you. You can be the source of the joy in your own life. You take action to create the life you want. "When talking about joy, I'm not talking about flipping a switch so you can experience a constant 'ha ha ha!' But choosing to be joyful for on e hour a day will give you the energy to make something good happen in your life" says St. John.
Inhale, exhale
It quiet your champion level worry brain learn to meditate. It forces you to be still for at least 15 minutes a day. Researchers at the University of California Davis Center for Mind and Brain found that daily meditation has been linked to higher levels of telomerase-the enzyme that combats feelings of stress and promotes a sense of well-being. another boon: Telomerase retards the cellular breakdown that least to aging preserving energy and vitality. So get cozy in a comfortable chair, close your eyes, and breathe in through your nose for five seconds, then slowly exhale through your mouth. Can't spare the full 15 minutes? Just five minutes of intentional breathing is enough to release tension from our bodies and lower blood pressure.
Turn off the small screen
Your television is one of the biggest joy stealers: A 2008 University of Maryland study showed that the unhappiest people watch six or more hours of television each day. Not only does the barrage of advertising leave you yearning for things you don't have, but the time spent cradling the remote robs you of simple everyday experiences that can tip your happy meter. Instead of sitting on the sofa watching other folks having fun, go out and find you own. Even an activity as simple as putting on your shoes and going for an afternoon stroll is a step in the right direction. Even better, take a class in something you love or join a group that will force you to engage in an enjoyable activity outside your home consistently.
Forget the gym, head for the outdoors
A good mood may be only minutes away, but your going to have to the leave the house to get it. According to researchers at England's University of Essex, light exercise done in a natural environment - such as a park, outside by a lake or even in the backyard - elevated both mood and self-esteem in participants. The best news? You don't need to work out for hours to reap the rewards. The most significant happiness spike was felt after only five minutes. And here's another reason to lace up those sneakers: We all know that regular exercise is good medicine, but did you know that it can work as well as some of the most effective antidepressants?
Retreat
Stepping away from your everyday can help you gain perspective by giving you the me time you need to relax and refocus. Think quiet countrysides or serene beaches, not clubs and bars. The idea is to be in a place that allows you to tune in to yourself. Can't manage to swing the next flight to Jamaica? Take a day off from work for a home retreat. "Carve out a period to do absolutely nothing," suggest life coach Vaorie Burton. "It might be 20 minutes to an hour. Sit or lie somewhere comfortable and pleasant and just be.
Star in your own music video
Go ahead and pump up the volume, preferably while using your hairbrush as a mic or belting out your best shower solo. Better yet-get up and dance. Whether you choose to do Zumba or simply to bust a move in your living room, you'll experience an immediate lift. It's really hard to stay somber when you're grooving to an up-tempo tune, especially one that calls back on a happy memory. That's because activities like singing and dancing power up your mood by boosting the level of the feel-good hormone serotonin in your brain.
Get yours in bed - freely and frequently
In other words, plan to pay attention to your sweet spot just as often as you can. Research conducted at Duke University showed that you can reduce your physiological age by as much as six years just by having an orgasm 200 times a year-that's nearly four times per week. Who wouldn't want to cheer about that? But there are more immediate benefits as well: When you orgasm, you also release oxytocin, a chemical that can put you in a euphoric state for hours.
Pack your own happiness kit
"You know that you're going to have a down day at some point," says Bonnie St. John, author of How Strong Women Pray and Live Your Joy. "Why not prepare a first aid kit for your emotions? Fill a box or a bag with things that you know will cheer you up." Whats in St. John's kit? "I have a picture of my teenage daughter when she was 5. I have a note my late mother wrote to me that says, 'Cherish yourself.' And chocolate is an essential." What might be the staples in your happiness kit?
Forgive
Not because the other person deserves it, but simply because you need to put down the weight of that grudge you've been nursing. And while you're at it, forgive yourself for what you think was your biggest mistake. Just let it go. FOREVER!!
Choose joy
Joy is not dependent on everything that's going on around you. You can be the source of the joy in your own life. You take action to create the life you want. "When talking about joy, I'm not talking about flipping a switch so you can experience a constant 'ha ha ha!' But choosing to be joyful for on e hour a day will give you the energy to make something good happen in your life" says St. John.
Turkey Scramble with Spinach and Feta
This recipe is delicious!! I used flavored feta cheese.
8 ounces ground turkey breakfast sausage (remove casing if using links)
4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
1 1/2 cups egg whites
3 whole grain pita pockets cut in half
1/2 cup feta cheese
freshly ground black pepper, to taste
In a large skillet, brown the sausage over medium heat, drain oil, and return the sausage to the skillet on medium heat. Add the spinach, stirring until it wilts and any liquid in the pan has evaporated. Add the egg whites and stir into the mixture until they're cooked through. Remove the pan from the heat and allow to coll. Meanwhile, toast the pita pockets and set aside. Add the feta cheese (blue cheese and smoked Gouda are also delicious) and freshly ground pepper to the sausage, spinach and egg mixture. Divide into sixths, and spoon the mixture into the pocket of the toasted whole grain pita.
To reheat: Make the sausage and spinach mixture ahead of time and store in an airtight container. Scramble you egg whites when your ready to eat, add them to the microwaved mixture, and place inside a toasted pita pocket.
Per Serving: 185 calories, 14 grams carbohydrate, 39 milligrams cholesterol, 6 grams fat, 18 grams protein
Makes 6 servings
8 ounces ground turkey breakfast sausage (remove casing if using links)
4 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
1 1/2 cups egg whites
3 whole grain pita pockets cut in half
1/2 cup feta cheese
freshly ground black pepper, to taste
In a large skillet, brown the sausage over medium heat, drain oil, and return the sausage to the skillet on medium heat. Add the spinach, stirring until it wilts and any liquid in the pan has evaporated. Add the egg whites and stir into the mixture until they're cooked through. Remove the pan from the heat and allow to coll. Meanwhile, toast the pita pockets and set aside. Add the feta cheese (blue cheese and smoked Gouda are also delicious) and freshly ground pepper to the sausage, spinach and egg mixture. Divide into sixths, and spoon the mixture into the pocket of the toasted whole grain pita.
To reheat: Make the sausage and spinach mixture ahead of time and store in an airtight container. Scramble you egg whites when your ready to eat, add them to the microwaved mixture, and place inside a toasted pita pocket.
Per Serving: 185 calories, 14 grams carbohydrate, 39 milligrams cholesterol, 6 grams fat, 18 grams protein
Makes 6 servings
Sunday, February 27, 2011
New Week…New Goals
As the new week begins I am setting my weekly goals. Here we go…
Exercise a minimum of 5 days for a minimum of 1 hour.
Prepared food for lunch and dinner for the work week.
Learn how to calculate the nutritional value of all prepared foods (like soups and casseroles).
Turn a cartwheel!
Exercise a minimum of 5 days for a minimum of 1 hour.
Prepared food for lunch and dinner for the work week.
Learn how to calculate the nutritional value of all prepared foods (like soups and casseroles).
Turn a cartwheel!
Eating and Exercise
Hey my lovelies!! The weekend has been pretty uneventful. Charles and I attended a behavior modification class (required for foster parents) on Saturday. That freaking class is 8 hours long. I absolutely hate it.
For lunch we went to Hooters!!! I have always loved their wings. So my husband orders fried pickles. Seriously...why do people fry pickles. They taste just fine without the added layer of clogged arteries. Anyway...I skipped the fried pickles. Then we ordered wings. I love anything spicy...it just makes me really happy. LOL I am actually proud of my restraint. I drank 2 glasses of water before the wings ever arrived. I had 2 wings. I swear it took me dang near 20 minutes just to eat them. This slow chewing is not the easiest for me.
Last night...I jump on the dreadmill. I am happy to report I completed 60 full minutes....15 of which were ran. Whew...this body is so not built for running...not yet anyway. It was a good workout.
Today was a Zumba day...but I didn't make it to class. Which meant Wii Zumba...just as fun.
For lunch we went to Hooters!!! I have always loved their wings. So my husband orders fried pickles. Seriously...why do people fry pickles. They taste just fine without the added layer of clogged arteries. Anyway...I skipped the fried pickles. Then we ordered wings. I love anything spicy...it just makes me really happy. LOL I am actually proud of my restraint. I drank 2 glasses of water before the wings ever arrived. I had 2 wings. I swear it took me dang near 20 minutes just to eat them. This slow chewing is not the easiest for me.
Last night...I jump on the dreadmill. I am happy to report I completed 60 full minutes....15 of which were ran. Whew...this body is so not built for running...not yet anyway. It was a good workout.
Today was a Zumba day...but I didn't make it to class. Which meant Wii Zumba...just as fun.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)