Showing posts with label Life. Show all posts

Being Relatable with a Twist


They say to be successful you need to be relatable. I say be relatable with a twist. Finding your "thing" or purpose and matching it with your people is key.

Being relatable doesn't mean being duplicatible. We aren't all the same.  We can take duplicatible actions and apply them to our own unique style and make it our own.

I have really thought about my purpose during quarantine and what I really l want to be doing with my life.

I know I want to be successful but I also know I want to make an impact. I want to know that I made a positive life changing impact on those I work with.

I also know I NEVER want to be in competition with others. That has always felt icky to me. I think we all have a purpose, we just relate to different people. That has taken me a long time to realize.

A favorite quote that reminds me of this every day is "When the teacher is ready the students will appear..". It can also go the other way, "When the student is ready, the teacher will appear".

I have heard these quotes so much in the last 4 months in several different situations. When you show up, others will too. Mindset is everything.

If you read my last post, you know I've been working pretty hard on myself and where I'm heading. I have taken steps to educate myself on the next steps.

I am that much closer to revealing my new adventure, but I wanted to remind all of you that you are a beautiful unique being. Be you. Shine your own light. The right people will show up.

More on the way soon. New direction. New look. New content.

Namaste.
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When the Universe knows you need a laugh

Yesterday was the Monday-iest Monday ever! It was definitely one for the books. I even swore on my personal Facebook page, something I try not to do!

Lets just say it was one of those days where I had to really try hard to find something to be grateful for. We all have those days where we feel defeated and like nothing is going right.

For me, running on maybe 2 hours of sleep, I was able to find 2 things to be grateful for yesterday. The first was the beautiful weather we had. It was near 70 and felt oh so good. A warm pleasant day always puts me in a good mood. Hearing all the birds chirping and the laughter of kids as they play outdoors. Being able to leave the house with only a light coat and flats with no socks. Those are my kind of days.

Then I enjoy the sweet sounds of the night coming alive as all the creatures serenade us with their chirps and songs. Sleeping with my window open is soothing to me. I laid down and felt myself drifting off into a quiet place as the nature lullaby relaxed my tired body. Something I would call Heaven.

As I laid there I could hear Grace come in from outside and come running up the stairs. She greeted me with a loud meow that startled me, even though I knew she was there. She instantly came up to get some attention and when she realized I was not that interested after a few pets, she decided to find somewhere to sleep.

She struggled with getting into R's armoire and knocked over the alarm clock in the process. It fell loudly for some reason, even making a big crash noise onto the carpeted floor. Once again I was startled awake.

It was quiet again for maybe a second or 2 before Cher started belting out at the top of her lungs "If I could turn back time.."

It was clear someone was trying to cheer me up. This was some kind of sign for sure. I am not sure what kind it was, but all I could do was burst into a big laughing fit. What else can you do when you have the Monday-iest day ever? 

I was grateful for the laughter and whoever in the universe knew I needed that laugh.

Ever have one of those days?

Namaste!

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Friday Magic

Welcome to the magic. Do you feel the magic in the air? Usually this is something I reserve strictly for the Fall (My favorite time of year!), but this year something feels super magical about the Spring.

I can feel something brewing in the energy around me. Something big is about to happen. 

Maybe it is just me being super happy that it is FINALLY Friday and I need something to carry me through, but somehow I think it is more then that.

Do you ever have those feelings? You can feel the change coming, but can't quite put your finger on what it is?

It could also be that the light is finally here. We are moving out of the darkness of the winter and moving to warmer and brighter times. I don't know about you, but the warmth and the bright sun always makes me feel better.

Over the next few weeks you will probably see a little bit more of me as I prepare for the big move (EEEK!) and my mind wants to just spew all the things about it.

I am also slowly getting back to reading blogs again. I have missed all of your daily knowledge and stories. I literally would come home everyday from work and scroll the internet looking for houses for sale and things I can do to make all kinds of changes around me.

But here I am.. I've moved through all of the darkness of winter and all of the hurdles of getting my family into a bigger space that suits our needs better. The first quarter of this year is already almost over and I feel like I did a lot of work in it. Work that can't exactly be seen by everyone, but work that made important strides in my life.

I truly hope you all have a wonderful and magical start to your weekend. Spring is here and the light is coming. To everyone who has struggled through the darkness of Winter, know things are getting better. Look to the light and even if only for a moment, you can see the glimmer of hope to better days to come.

Namaste my friends.


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A Fun Little Questionnaire About Me

Today I thought it would be fun to re-acquaint myself to all of you. I picked out some fun questions from a "getting to know you" questionnaire in hopes that it will be fun and not boring... We shall see..

What job would you be terrible at? I would be terrible at anything that requires me to have upper body strength. So things like waitressing or body builder.. lol. I have the worst upper body strength. Even when I was my fittest and was working out I would never seem to gain much strength. I have a hard time carrying my son now that he's 18 pounds. 

What have you only recently formed an opinion about? Politics. I have never really cared either way. I just stayed out of it all. Now I have some strong opinions about a few things that I'd love to change. Still not something I am going to strike up a conversation with a random stranger about, but it is definitely something new for me. 

What is something you think everyone should do at least once in their lives? Travel, hands down. Seriously if you have never gotten on a plane and just explored, do it. If only once, go somewhere and see the world you live in. It is something I did quite a bit of and wish I had gone more at this point. I have more responsibility now, but I am just now realizing that doesn't mean my life is on hold. 

How different was your life one year ago? Well for starters, I was getting more sleep, sort of. I was pretty close to giving birth to baby bloob, but I still had my own sleeping patterns. 

Music break! What are you listening to? Green Day- When I Come Around

What are you addicted to? Right now I am addicted to learning more about everything it seems. I can't stop reading how to's and just anything to give me more knowledge in my life. 

What is your spirit animal and why? Cat. I don't care what anyone says, cats are resilient animals. Grace has a sense like nothing I have ever seen. She knows when I am sad. She knows when I am sick. She knows when something isn't right in the house. She is my savior and love all in one. 

Do you believe in magic? Explain. I believe in the magic within the world we live. I believe in the magic we can unleash in ourselves when we really let ourselves live. Magic happens when we let it. 

What is something that fires you up and really shows your personality? I am a music fanatic. I love, love, love it all. I remember my life in song. I can tell you exactly where I was in life with the lyrics of a song. I live for a good concert and won't accept seats outside of the front 10 rows. 

What is something your coworkers don't know about you? I am very insecure and have a hard time taking compliments when I do a good job. I have a Marketing degree, but never intended to use it for traditional marketing. I wanted to be a band manager of a famous musician. I graduated and went out to Los Angeles where I worked at an entertainment marketing company owned by the original managers of the band The Offspring. While working there, I was able to have lunch with The Offspring and then immediately after attended their set where I lost my shoe in the mosh pit. Good times right?

Tell me something fun about you!


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A Valentine For Yourself


 
On this day of love, let’s celebrate the love we have for ourselves! This is one of the healthiest things you can do for yourself. Do this by making a list of things that you have accomplished that at one point you thought were hard.

Thinking about this I have a lot of accomplishments I never consider on a day to day basis. We are a pretty amazing species when we stop and look at what we can do.

Here is my list:

I became a mom: This is something I was so scared of. The whole time I carried Ben I prayed every night I would be a good mom. I prayed I would be able to handle a little human. I prayed I wouldn’t mess my kid up because I had no idea what I was doing. Well that kid is 10 months old and he’s loving and happy and an all-around great kid.

Becoming a certified Yoga teacher: There are days I still can’t believe I accomplished this. I am that person who is terrified of speaking in front of a room of people and would never raise my hand to volunteer as a demonstrator at an event, yet I signed on to not only talk to a room of people, but teach them how to move their bodies in a way that will enhance their lives. This is HUGE for me.

Becoming a leader: This one can be taken differently by different people, but to me, it is an accomplishment. I always felt like the follower in life with a million ideas. I never seem to know what to do to implement my own ideas, so I would just do what others do. Now I understand how to be a leader and to follow my own lead and dreams. I know my own worth. This makes me feel so very accomplished.

Getting up every day: This may sound silly, but when dealing with depression and all the things, this can be hard. You want so hard to get up and be a happy person, but you don’t feel that way and staying in bed sounds like a better idea. It is an accomplishment to me every day when I choose to live my life verses sleep it away. When winter is over, those feelings die down and it’s easier, but when full on winter is here, this is an everyday struggle.

There are so many other things I can list here. Our accomplishments are all around us. We just need to recognize them. I hope you take a moment today to check in with yourself. Pat yourself on the back and keep on keeping on my friend! You are loved when you love yourself.

Namaste <3


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A cute little rambling about stress



It's Tuesday night and we have gotten some weather today... ya know the white stuff with some ice mixed in? Yeah that weather. I am sitting here after putting the baby to bed drinking a glass of wine and eating popcorn. Dinner of champions right there!

It was a long day for a Tuesday. Snow and ice always stresses me out. You just never know how the roads are going to be. Driving with a baby is also a new stressor in my life. I now have to watch everyone around me and mentally tell them to "stay back" and "slow down!" and all the things that you internally (or maybe externally) yell at other cars.

The point of all that complaining is I need to get back to regularly doing yoga and other things that tackle stress and my well-being. This popcorn and wine ain't doing it! I work at a gym, per se, but I don't get much time to actually use it. Since giving birth to Ben my whole body is out of wack, and I just last week got the magical idea of going to the chiropractor. It's been WAY too long!

Well between them cancelling me last week and the weather today, I am now scheduled for NEXT week to get in. I keep telling myself that once I go and get aligned everything else will fall into place. Maybe it's just an excuse, but I am quite set on that excuse to do nothing about my fitness and stress relief until then.

I am honestly holding myself to the promise that once I have seen the chiropractor and get myself put back together, I will start moving my body again. It's pretty frightening. To imagine a year ago how much more I was working out and moving my body and I was 6 months pregnant with Ben! Now he is 10 months old. He will be a year in 2 months (My math isn't wrong here, Ben was 5 weeks early).

It's time to get myself in working order and lower my stress. Next week will be the week I do something for me.

Do you like to exercise to release stress? If not what is your stress relief?

Namaste




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How a week can change your life

This post has been a long one coming. Blogging has really taken a backseat in my life while I sort through the remains of the the person I was even 6 months ago. Sounds a little dramatic, I know, but I am definitely not the same person I was 6 months ago.

One week back in September really changed my outlook on life and shaped me into a different mindset. I am not sure yet if that can be categorized as a good thing or a bad thing yet, but I want to believe it was mostly good. and

The week of September 10th 2018, 3 major things happened. First, I went into work on Monday and quit my job. It was something that I needed for my own sanity and self care. 2nd I quit pumping/breastfeeding Ben. It was not bringing me any kind of joy and Ben was frustrated so I just stopped. And the last thing that happened, the one thing that is still laying heavy on my heart is the disappearance of my cat Rick.

A lot of change happened at once and it made me feel relief and major stress. I wasn't sure what to do next. I anticipated I would spend more time with Ben and bond with him. I did do those things, but I knew something was missing. I still needed that purpose in life outside of being a mom. I wanted a job. I wanted something to do with my time other then just be a mom.

Some people may call that selfish, and I am sorry if you feel that way, but this was the best choice for me. I didn't really have a plan, but I just started applying for jobs. After about a month of being without a job I was hired. I had no child care plan or anything for Ben. I just prayed that if it was meant to be, it would be.

I have been with my new company for almost 4 months. It has been a learning experience. Ben goes to a home daycare 5 days a week and it is great for him. He interacts with 3 other kids in his age bracket and it has been so rewarding.

I have finally given myself the credit I deserve with my skills. I applied for a job I wouldn't have even considered a year ago. I am the marketing director for my local YMCA and it is amazing. I deserved this job years ago when I doubted myself and only applied for admin positions.

At some point through all of the change, I also felt a little closer to my spiritual self. I was able to meditate and clear my head and feel a little more put together. I completed my Reiki 1 certification and currently am working on Reiki 2. I have found some wonderful teachers to help me on this spiritual journey I'm on.

Ben is a few days away from being 10 months old and he is thriving. He is a happy, spunky little boy. He loves to laugh and blow raspberries and is know for making all the kids at his daycare growl with him. He is saying momma, dadda, and baba. He is just about crawling, but has a mean army crawl. He and Grace have come to a truce and will spend time together without a fight.

This is the year me and R will buy our first home together. We have rented our home the whole time we have lived together and with the expanding of our family when Ben came, it is time for a bigger space.

We plan to take our first family vacation this year. All the kids and grandparents if they want to join us.

2019 is going to be a year of big growth and love. Both for myself as an individual and as a family unit.

I can't wait to share it with you!

So tell me, what big changes have you had in your life recently?


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The Power of Bravery



Oh Hey. Long time no talk. I am sitting here trying to process the past 2 weeks and even I haven't been able to comprehend it yet.

So here's what happened. I quit my job. Let me say that again, mostly for me.. I. Quit. My. Job.

Guys, this has been one of the scariest things I have ever done for myself.

I say for myself because I was sick. My health was failing due to the amounts of stress that was overcoming me on a daily basis. I was caring for my infant son while working 40 hours a week. Think about that for a moment. You bring your 4 month old to work with you. You have to tend to his needs PLUS tend to work needs.

Yeah. Not a pretty picture. It's not easy. Don't ever let someone who works from home and takes care of their kids let you believe it is easy. They may put up a good front, but let me tell you, it is so hard. Make sure you praise those people often and offer help whenever you can. I promise you they will be grateful.

Now I am not a quitter. I don't believe in quitting when it gets hard. But this time it was different. Not only was it hard, but my heart was not in it anymore. That is when I knew it was time to go. My heart was going in another direction.

I wanted to bond with my son, but couldn't because I was tired after tending to his needs and working. When I was done working and R got home, I handed bloob over to him and needed a break. This was not how I pictured raising my son.

I took a leap of faith and invested in me. I followed my heart on this one. And even after ending my job, the weight wasn't instantly gone like I had hoped it would be. Nope. There were are still many things I need to address within myself and my home to make that weight completely lift.

This was a start. This was me finally being brave. That brave moment lead me to another moment of heartache and stress. My cat went missing on my third day not working. My baby boy as I call him. Today is day 13 that he has been missing. I have been all over this neighborhood. I have called him. I have put up flyers. I have set traps. I am at an absolute loss on where he is.

My heart is broken and is trying to find the silver lining. Today I found the strength to write about this mess I have been in. I'm hoping for a better tomorrow. I am praying for the strength to be positive that things will finally work out.

Today is hard. Yesterday was hard. Hoping for an easier tomorrow.

Namaste my friends.

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One Day Can Change the World - September 11th- 17 Years Later



Today I feel like that same college freshman standing in front of my TV in shock. Confused is an understatement. What in the world just happened? What now?

17 years ago on a Tuesday life changed forever. We all woke up same as always. I thought about how much I disliked my history class. Seems ironic now. We all went to bed a different person.

 A war of hatred was brought to life here on US soil. In 17 years I've seen things change so drastically it makes me wonder how it could get any worse. And then it does.

September 11th, 2001 was like something you would see in a movie. Not real life. Not in your own backyard. This is an event that our children learn about in their history classes today.

Children who weren't here to experience it, yet have a large crowd of people at their finger tips who were here that day. Their parents. Their siblings. Their grandparents. Their aunts and uncles. Their teachers.

We can all give them our version of this horrific day.  They are all unique to it's storyteller but the feeling is always the same. Shock.

So today, as I write every year on this day is a reminder. One decision can change the world. In this case, it was a bad decision. One that had major consequences. But it was a decision a group of people thought up and made happen.

It is a reminder that our actions have consequences and outcomes. Some of these things we can never take back once they are done. Some of these things can change everything you ever thought you knew about life.

Make the right choice. Do the right thing. Love one another even if you don't have the same beliefs. See a different perspective. If possible agree to disagree. But don't fight with someone just because they are different. And don't fight with yourself just because you don't think the same as the next person.

Just be kind.

One day you may be in their shoes. You may have thought you'd never be doing what you are, but things changed. That's what happened to me yesterday.

Things changed.

Today I woke up in a new chapter of my life. I made a life changing choice yesterday and today at age 35 I woke up a bit in shock and a little confused just like that 18 year old girl did 17 years ago.The same question stands,

What now?



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What's New With You - September Edition

I needed something a little lighter today,  so why not link up with Kristen over at See You in a Porridge for What's New With You? It's been a while since I have done one of these updates.

First off.. Welcome September! The start of the most magical time of the year in my opinion. I love fall. I surrender to it's beauty and crisp air. We had are never getting out of this hot and humid summer, so I am praying the fall weather comes soon!

Now to be a little contradicting to my last statement, I am already dreaming of a vacation for next summer when Baby Bloob is older and I can feel more at ease about traveling a longer distance. (He currently doesn't do well in the car). I keep scrolling through Facebook looking at all of the photos my friends have posted of their annual summer trips with their kids, wondering if this will be me soon.


September is the month of my wedding anniversary. I will be celebrating 2 years on the 24th. I am working on trying to find a quick overnight getaway for me and the hubs, but not sure if that will come together as easily as I'd like.




I am working on a couple of projects here on the blog. One which is my 3 month Get Movin' challenge. This kicks off on the 10th! There is still time to sign up if you were thinking about joining us!

I have mostly given up breastfeeding. This is a topic that still toys with my emotions, but I had to take care of me. Little Bloob is still getting breast milk every day, just not as every meal. The important part is he is happy and fed and I am happier with this arrangement. It was about balance for me and this is what felt right.

I have a couple of life changes coming up and I am gearing up for them. They are all positive, but as in all change, it makes me nervous. I will talk more about this soon.

So that's what's new with me. What's new with you?

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Fridays and Fried Computers



Hey! Happy Friday!

Just wanted to drop by to give a quick update..

We had some severe storms roll through the area here over the past couple of days and unfortunately my computer was a casualty to this. One of the electrical surges killed my hard drive. Sad face. I am currently crossing all my fingers and toes hoping the nice gentlemen who are working on it can at least retrieve my files.

In the meantime, it will  be a little quiet around here. I think this was the universes way of reminding me that I need to take a breather from time to time. This week was super stressful for lots of different reasons, but mostly because I am trying to do about a million things in my day lately which is leading to some burn out.

This mamma has to remind herself from time to time that she cannot be super woman every day. I can't help it. I'm a Capricorn. This is what we do. We work our little hearts out to be successful or to be helpful and then we realize we are neglecting ourselves.

Anywho, as we go into this 3 day weekend I am going to take the hint and get in some R&R and stay off my phone. Hoping to be back up and running sometime early next week.

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend. If you are lucky to have the 3 day weekend, I hope you stay safe and enjoy celebrating end of summer!

Namaste my loves!




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When Faith and Postpartum Depression Collide


Faith. The belief that your life will unfold as it was meant to, even when it unfolds into something painful and difficult to navigate. I read that sentence in chapter 10 of Girl, Wash Your Face by Rachel Hollis. This line saved me from myself this weekend.

My Future With Yoga



I have sort of been putting off this post. It has been sitting in my drafts with a bare bone summary with no real direction for a few weeks. Why is that I wonder. So here are my thoughts.

Last summer I completed my 200 hour yoga teaching certification. I even had a job lined up to teach one month before I completed my classes. I was so excited, yet terrified to start on this journey.

A little back history. I started going to yoga a few years ago when I was feeling really lost in life and felt like I needed a hobby. I chose yoga because it was a gentle gathering and I am an introvert, so going out to do a full on contact hobby wasn't going to be the right fit for me.

I wanted something to take my mind off life around me, plus get me out of my house. I spend soooo much time at home those days when I wasn't at work. I walked into a new studio that was offering a free class and I fell in love. The space is literally on a farm in the country only 15 minutes from my house.

I attended a few more free classes when they offered a beginners course of 8 weeks for a flat rate paid up front. I decided at that point this was the easiest way for me to stay committed. I went through this class and many more. I slacked at times in between but always managed to make my way back.

When I heard they were offering a yoga teacher training I got really excited, but also didn't think I could do it. I didn't think they would accept me because I had no real experience in yoga. I was still considered a beginner at this point.

I remember when I had my application interview, I met our teacher. She was magnificent to me. I remember looking at her and saying, "do you think I can do this?" She had never met me before in her life and somehow her response to me made me believe I could. I took that same story to my graduation speech that I didn't know I would be making that day. (Jeannie if you're reading this.. thanks!)

I had to look within myself to complete this long journey. I did it. I was so damn proud of myself. I felt strong and empowered in my own body.

 I started teaching almost immediately. I had a regular couple who came and it was great. Small and gave me room to experiment without too much of an audience. It was the perfect equation. I taught 2 times a week and I really loved it.

Fast forward to September when I found out I was pregnant. I continued to teach until the end of November and then I felt too tired to make the drive every day (I was teaching 45 minutes away from my house) and I put my class on hiatus. I also quit doing yoga at home. I went to one class early on and felt so sick through it, I just stopped all together.

Now here I am today. A year past my certification and I am not doing yoga at all. I didn't do it through my pregnancy, which was a big mistake on my part. Now I need to get myself back to it. I need to keep on pushing forward to get back to where I was a year ago.

I want to teach again, and if nothing else I want to have a practice of my own again. Get myself back to a place where I feel comfortable on the mat.

Right now I am in no position to teach as I am not practicing myself, so I would have to say I will not be teaching this year again, but in the future, I am saying yes, I will be teaching again. Anyone want to be my guinea pig?

The passion is still there and there is no secret that this body of mine needs some stretching, exercise, and a little peace in my mind.

Did a life change ever put a passion of yours on hold? How did you handle it?  Would love to hear your opinions on this!



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Wellness Wednesday: Selfie a day to keep the negative away


Quick post today. I mentioned I had some self love projects coming up in August and September and then forgot to tell you all what I was planning to do. If you wanted to follow along, I think it will be a fun (but also can be difficult) project.

August is also Happiness Happens Month. What a great month to focus on some self love!

Starting today, I am going to take a selfie of myself and then write about what I see that I love about myself. I am not planning to share all 31 photos here on the blog, but I may share some of them throughout the month on my Instagram (Are we friends here?) and on my Friday posts.

At the end of the month I am going to compile what I found out about myself from this project. I think it is important to see the good in yourself even on the hard days. Every day isn't beautiful and sometimes that's okay. Finding something positive to say can be difficult, but that is why this is such a great thing to do. It pushes me out of my comfort zone.

I am excited to start this and hope I see some of your beautiful selfies along the way!



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The Postpartum Diaries: 16 Weeks



I started writing the intro to this post a few weeks ago. It was starting to feel boring to me, as I had nothing really great to say that everyone else hasn't already said. I even debated writing this post. Then this happened. I wrote a post about body image postpartum... sort of. I had a really bad day and really fought with myself about my image and how I was feeling. It was rough. I shed a lot of tears and got a lot of great support.

But as always, with support there will always be criticism. You will always have someone who will either misunderstand you or just really want to fight with you. I get it. It happens. It is SO hard to put myself out there on the internet on a regular day, but I do it because I love sharing stories with all of you. It was SUPER hard to talk about my weight postpartum.

I want to be clear. I feel bad about my weight because I don't feel good. Like literally feel sick in my body. My body aches because of the weight. This isn't a "oh my, I am ugly now because I can't wear super tiny clothes in the middle of summer and show off my assets" kid of feeling. Also..no where did I ever post that my weight and image was more important than my child.

Yes. Someone actually attacked me for caring more about my weight then my child. *crickets chirping*

When did I say that? 

And to be honest. The ones who attacked me the most were the people I know outside of blog land. They are people who I know personally. Family members. Friends. Acquaintances. People I know who have gone through this themselves.

Why must we be so ugly to one another, even when we know how it feels?

But honestly, that's all another post for another time. Today is about an update on everything else going on, not just the weight or the pity party I threw myself.

Here's what's going on since my last postpartum update. It has been 10 weeks. Little Bloob is 16 weeks old today. Where in the world has time gone? Little man is doing great. Chattering away and rolling over. He got his big boy seat, AKA the high chair. He enjoys sitting in it watching us cook meals throughout the day. He has also starting teething, so that has been fun.

The last time I updated I was having some trouble with breastfeeding. The good news is, it got better, just like everyone said it would. I still don't produce enough for him to eat full time breast milk, but he is getting it. That is all that matters to me. He is healthy and thriving and that is most important.

I have returned back to work full-time. It's been 8 weeks already. For those of you who don't know I work from home. I am not my own boss, so I actually have a 9-5 schedule to keep. Many people think it's the best thing ever to work from home when you have a baby. Spoiler alert. It's not.

I didn't have to deal with daycare of separation anxiety, but I do have the stress of taking care of my infant while trying to get my job done. More info coming on that next week. Stay tuned.

We all know I struggled with weight gain over the past 10 weeks, so we won't get back into that. I will say I have really taken a look at my diet and have been making better choices for about a full month now. I am measuring out my portions and it really makes the difference on how I see food.

I'm learning a lot about nutrition and how to safely change my lifestyle while still providing nourishment for my son. I have watched my milk supply soar and I have watched it come to a screeching halt. My whole body is counting on the food I put in my body. I am slowly learning to accept that.

At 16 weeks I am starting to get a real handle on being a new mom. I know my kids signals and little quirks. I know when he's hungry or when he just wants to snuggle. I know that he doesn't like to eat when he's working on a poop. I get it little dude. I don't either.

I have come a long way in the last 16 weeks. I have learned so much about myself and about little human beings. I have learned to have patience and when to put everything down, including the baby and walk away for a few minutes to catch my sanity.

I am a new person everyday when I wake up. I never know what challenges will be thrown at me in this new world of parenthood.

So tell me.. How am I doing? How did your first few months of parenthood go? I'd love to hear your stories!





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Is Writing My "Thing"?


I have to admit, I didn't plan a post for today. I sat here last night staring at the screen, wondering what it was that needed to be said. What was on my mind? What did the interwebs need to hear from me today?

Some days it's like the universe speaks to me clearly. An idea pops up and I run with it. Other days the universe makes me work for it. Today is clearly one of those days.

It's been raining here for 3 days. The sky is gloomy and the air is thick. Needless to say it is pretty miserable outside.

I've been thinking a lot about what I want to be doing with my life in the upcoming months. I feel like I say that often, but if we aren't thinking about it, what else would we be doing? Now maybe your answer to that question is just "Going with the flow"

I'm not gonna lie, I love living life as it comes at me, but I also need to be a little smarter with my adventure attitude as I have a child to think of these days. I can't do something too rash that I leave myself in a bad situation if my plan backfires on me.

I often daydream of becoming a freelancer. Writing while the baby naps. I never considered myself a writer before starting this blog. I do enjoy writing as well as doing research. I also love reviewing products, events, and life in general.

My favorite part is interacting with everyone who comes in contact with my writing. I love to have conversation about the topics I write, even if they are challenging at times. People are my thing. I love meeting and helping people as much as I can.

Each time I have my tarot cards read by my friend, I always get cards that reference writing. Maybe it was meant to be? Maybe it is what my future holds?

I'm not really sure right now, but it sure does sound interesting. Now maybe someone will read this and will think, "Man, that Trish sure knows what she's doing in life" and will offer me a weekly writing opportunity.

I can dream right? I mean I am all about the dreams these days..

Namaste my friends.



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Coffee Chat Vol 1



Most days I'm an introvert to a T. Today I'm coming out of my shell a bit and inviting you to coffee. For me, I'll be having a cold brew, which is my new obsession to beat this summer heat.

You, I'd hope would order something interesting so I would have something to start the conversation with. I find that less awkward then asking about the weather.

Once we get passed the small talk I'd admit how I've been feeling in my everyday life. A bit overwhelmed and still feeling like I'm not enough.

I would tell you my mind rushes a mile a minute, but I think I've found a way to slow it down. Walking along the lake. Early morning walks in the nice breeze before the hot temps sneak up.

It's been on these walks that I've had some new ideas about my blog. Things that will be good for me, and may spark interest with some of you. I know we are all struggling with something at some point.

I'd tell you that it brings me complete joy knowing that some of my stories have helped someone else, even if I never hear about it. Sometimes the universe just lets me know. It's magical like that.

Circling back to being overwhelmed and not feeling like enough, I'd tell you about a self love project in the works for August and September. More details to come.

I'd also tell you how much I love my son more and more everyday. It's a struggle some days learning to be a mom, but I wouldn't change it for anything. This is why self love is so important.

I'd tell you I am sad that my 100 dreams project will be coming to an end in just 2 short weeks. It is because of this that I am going to do a follow up series called "Living the Dream". You can't just make lists and not expect to follow through right?

Lastly, I'd tell you I finally did the one thing I said I'd never do. I dropped my cellphone in a parking lot and shattered the screen in the upper corner. Yep. It happened. Good way to confirm that, yes indeed your phone screen is made of glass.

I'd then remember one more thing before we parted ways. Something that brought me pure joy this weekend. While cleaning out some old boxes I came across my old iPod. Like really old. The original iPod Mini. I got it for Christmas in 2005. At that moment I was glad I never parted with my iHome. Also an original, because I had no cords for the iPod. I hooked it all up and was instantly brought back to my early 20's.

Man what a feeling.

Happy Monday friends. Thanks for that chat!

Namaste.


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Stitch Fix July 2018 + Body Image

Another week, another fix. This fix in particular was to pick out a dress for a wedding I am going to in August. I asked for dresses and possibly some cute shoes. I am still so self conscious over my body these days, but I am doing this for motivation.

*Edit*
I want to be honest about how these photos made me feel. These photos inflicted a chain of events that I never thought would happen. They made me address a demon that I have been avoiding since long before I had little Bloob.

I am overweight.

I know this. I have known this. This isn't something that is new to me. I went through a lot of body changes over the years. Between being happy, being depressed, moving to new places, and family drama. You name it, it probably effected my weight.

While I was pregnant with my little man I got asked about 10 times in one visit if I had gestational diabetes. This was based on them looking at me and assuming I had it because I am overweight.

I did not gain much while pregnant. In fact, I was mostly baby. I was so pleased with how well I did through the pregnancy. I was healthy, the baby was healthy, and all went well for the most part.

I am struggling more now then I have ever struggled in my life with my body image. I reached out to my personal Facebook page for help. I have received the most amazing outpour of support it brought tears to my eyes.

I forgot what it was like to ask for help. It made the difference. I posted one of the photos I took during this photo shoot I did for this post. My son was in the photo. I got such beautiful words of encouragement. I was wearing the red Evalynn brushed knit dress.

I looked again and I saw the promise in my eyes.,  the love I had for my son, and how beautiful the red looked on me.

I want to thank Stitch Fix for pulling me out of my comfort zone. For making me want to try harder. I put on these clothes and post photos of myself on the internet. That is VERY hard for me right now. I did it. I not only posted here for strangers I have never met, but in a space where all my friends, family, acquaintances, and lurkers can see me.

Thank you all for the support and kindness you have shown me. Much love.


Now onto the Fix...


For those of you unfamiliar with Stitch Fix, it is a monthly clothing subscription where you get a personal stylist to send you 5 pieces according to your profile. You have the opportunity to write your stylist a note each month further customizing your fix. You pay a $20 styling fee each month to receive the fix, which is then deducted from the cost of anything you keep from your fix. If you keep all 5 items you also receive a 25% discount. Pretty great right? If you have interest in trying out the fix, I would appreciate it greatly if you used my affiliate link. 



French Grey Evalynn Brushed Knit Dress

This dress has grown on me since I first tried it on. I don't think I own anything red, but I also don't think it's fancy enough for the wedding I am going to next month. I unfortunately sent it back. Sort of regret it now!

Kaileigh Lennox Tie Waist Detail Dress and Report Penley Textured Mule


 I really liked this dress while not on me. It was too clingy in places I am not ready to show off. I really liked the color and the patterns, but this time I had to say no, and send it back. The heels were also sent. I thought they were really cute, but they did not fit my feet well. I have wide feet and these were just a bit too tight. They went back.


Wisp Calla Knit Maxi Dress and Bancroft Milla Circle Layer Bracelet


Oh my heart. I really love this dress, but again, don't love it on me. This postpartum body of mine is just not making me love any of these outfits on me. This one is also washing me out more than I realized. I asked for another size in this to see how it goes, but now that I see how much it washes me out I will probably return this one was well. I was also sent the bracelet. I do not really wear bracelets. It was pretty, but not for me.



I have already mentioned this in another post, but I have been struggling with my postpartum body. I know it produced life and that is something really special. I am trying to come to terms with it, but I am having a hard time with the fact that I have put on a lot of weight in the past 3 months since giving birth.

It was hard for me to post these photos. I feel like I am going in reverse with these posts. I was a bit skinnier in the last photos and to see these have really made me sad. I know I should love my body as it is, and I am sincerely trying.

I am grateful for all of the support I receive here, and I know putting myself out there like this will once again bring support, and it's for that reason I do it.

Which dress did you like the most?


Exciting News!





Did you hear? Stitch Fix just launched their new service for kids! This excites me beyond words because I love the service for me. The sizes start at 2T and go up to size 14. Baby Bloob is still a few years away from those size points, but he will definitely be getting a fix when he's in those sizes! I mean, just look at that cute dinosaur outfit!

 Each fix comes with 8-12 personalized items and has a price range between $10 and $35 an item. At launch brands included are: Kate Spade, Under Armor, Nike, Toms, Hannah Andersson,

Get started today by clicking on the banner below! Just think about how much time you will save not having go to the store with your little


I can't wait to see all the littles in their Stitch Fix outfits!


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When you read between the lines: A rambling

You ever have one of those weeks that kind of takes you for a loop and it throws off your whole schedule? Well that's been this week for sure. Lots of unexpected curveballs that have kept me away from my computer other then for work.

I promised myself a few months ago that I would not apologize anymore for my absences here on the blog. It is hard, but I am learning to let it happen. Life happened. What matters is that this space still brings me joy.

And it does.

Tonight I wanted to write. I wanted to just put some positive into the world. We need that from time to time. We need it from others and we need it from ourselves.

On nights like this, I sit here in silence reminding myself that even when things get tough, I am grateful. I have my beautiful little family. I have people who love me in all areas of my life. I have a roof over my head and a bountiful garden.

I am grateful.

This week on top of all of the crazy, I also decided to start eating better. Start tracking what I am eating and really putting my foot down. It has been 13 weeks since baby bloob was born. I have no excuse anymore to think I am "eating for two".

Comfort food is okay when I need comfort, but I think I have been eating like every meal will be my last. It has started to become very unhealthy for me and my small frame. The weight that I put on before the pregnancy plus the lingering weight from the pregnancy is really doing a number on my knees.

I am human.

You will be reading this on Thursday and I will be counting down the days until Friday. I'm always in a hurry these days. Trying to get to the next thing. I need to remind myself that I not only need to live the length of my life, I also need to live the width.

I need to expand myself so I don't live for the weekend every single day. That makes for a very anxious and tedious life. There's got to be more to life then just living from week to week. Sort of life living paycheck to paycheck. Never saving. Never moving forward.

I will evolve.

On nights like these I need to look at my 100 dreams list. I need to remind myself that those dreams are attainable if I would just think outside the box. Things will change once I reset my thoughts.

Tonight I am full of wonder and anxiety. I want everything to happen now. I am tired of waiting. But then I remind myself that waiting isn't the answer. I need to react and get myself in motion. Keep the mind positive. Then things will happen.

I need patience.

What has been lingering on your mind these days?





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BLT Pasta Salad for 4th of July



I don't know about you, but when I think of Fourth of July I don't just think red, white, and blue. I think fireworks and pasta salad. I feel like everyone wants to show off their new pasta salads like it's a new car or something.

"OMG did you see Susan's pasta salad? It had some kind of seeds in it. Yes SEEDS!"

Oh Susan. Always trying to one up the next salad. I'm pretty sure I'm Susan in this story so I'm gonna share my pasta salad recipe that is currently packed and ready to roll.

BLT Pasta Salad

What you need:
1 lb of elbow pasta
1lb of bacon
1 container of cherry or grape tomatoes
2 to 3 green onions
1 cup mayonnaise 
1-2 tbsp of white vinegar

Prepare your elbows to al dente. It should look like this when done:


While your elbows are boiling, fry your bacon. Once bacon is complete chop into small pieces. Follow with chopping up your green onions. Stems only. Then cut your mini tomatoes in half. I use kitchen scissors to cut the onions and tomatoes.


Mix together your pasta, bacon, tomatoes, and onions. Once they are tossed together add your mayo and vinegar. 


Voila! You have a pretty impressive salad that takes under an hour to prep. You can save time by cooking your bacon the night before. Just put it in a pretty red or blue bowl and it's all festive for the 4th!


Presentation is everything guys.. Look at that mayo all over the side of the bowl. So pretty.. Oh and that water bottle in the background is super sexy.. yeah. woops!



Take that Susan! I may have also made a fruit salad....

So tell me. Are you a Susan?

I hope you have a wonderful 4th! Stay safe out there kids!



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