Day 267: Back to the Basics

I'm all for change and trying new things. When I noticed the traffic to AOW was increasing so much, I decided to take a gamble and put some ads on the site. But, in the last couple of months I've felt like the feel of the site has changed and it just wasn't me. The flow from day to day was broken up with ads after the posts and the nuance of daily thankfulness seemed to get lost in Full Sail University or Papa John's latest deal.

So I'm done. There's an ad on the sidebar but no more in between posts. Change is good, but sometimes, keeping it simple is the best solution. I'm glad I tried and I'm thankful I reflected.

And for this, I am thankful.

Day 266: The Old College Try

It's impossible to grow up in the midwest and not love college football. Going to a Big Ten university and having a seat in the student section for 3 years only solidified this love. 10 years later (yikes!),  I guess what keeps me still interested in the game year after year is how much I continue to learn with each game I watch.

Chris and I watch most games together and he always helps me to understand the game in a way I never would have on my own. I always have so many questions and he is so good about helping me understand and view plays as a player or coach would. It's pretty cool.

Saturday's are a bonding day for us. And for this, I am thankful.

Go State!


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Day 265: Perfect Timing

Today I am thankful for perfect timing. Last night, as I was getting ready to go to sleep, I heard a weird noise coming from the kids' room. I opened up their door to find Sofia moaning and in tears because she had thrown up. Everywhere.

It was gross.

BUT thankfully, because I am on fall break, I was able to keep her (and Nico, just in case) home from school and not miss any work or scramble to figure out subs or daycare. That was a nice feeling.

Today I got to be a full-time caretaker. It wasn't what I had anticipated for my last day of vacation but any unexpected days with the kids is always special. And for this, I am thankful.

Day 264: CrossFit

Today I completed my first CrossFit fitness class. I have made a commitment to get in shape and be healthy. Taking this class is my first step...and it kicked my butt hard core. It is intense, powerful and empowering. Even better, several of my co-workers are taking the classes too! The built in support and accountability is priceless.

I'm really excited to get back into shape again. While I lost all of my baby weight from my two kids, I just haven't felt like myself in a long time. I'm squishy. I don't like squishy.

Working out for me has so many benefits beyond just getting in shape. It is good for my mind, heart and soul. I'm glad to be getting back on this path and taking care of the ones I love by taking care of myself.

And for this, I am thankful.

BTW -- I am supposed to be able to see results in 2 weeks. While they won't be dramatic, they will be noticeable if I am consistent with the workout. I would appreciate any and all encouragement as I navigate the most difficult time frame of getting (and committing!) back into shape. 2 weeks. I can do this! A better, healthy life awaits!!!

Day 263: Not So Snow Day

I love the snow. Thus, each October as bets are made by the local meteorologists on when the first snowfall will be, I'll be honest and say I get pretty excited. There's something about running to the window the morning of the first time it snows. Everything looks so cleans and fresh and soft. I just love it.

Today we had our first snow. And it was a REAL snow. None of this light dusting stuff that melts by 10 a.m. We got a solid 6" at our house. Perfect for snow angels and catching flakes on the tongue of a certain 5 year old. :)

There were flurries all day and into the evening. I was thankful that we got this storm while we are off of school but more thankful that I had some time to revel in the giddiness that comes with the year's first snowfall.

...and drink some hot chocolate too!




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Day 262: The Art of Doing Nothing

This week marks one of my favorite times of the year as a teacher: Fall Break. It is one week of pure, unadulterated relaxation. So today, in between a lunch with one friend and a walk with two others, I did nothing. Literally nothing.

And I loved every second of it.

I know that spending days like this is a rarity and not the highest on the productivity scale. But it's ok. It's all the more reason to be thankful.

A Lesson From Peter Pan

Miss last week's GlassHeel Post? How we find balance in our lives is important. This week, I focused on a few of the things I do. Check it out here. :)

Enjoy!

Day 261: A Simple Evening

We had such a wonderful weekend. :) And now, our house is quiet. The kids went to bed without an issue, toys are picked up, pumpkin seeds are roasting with cinnamon in the oven and my cute hubby is sitting cozily on the couch. These are nice nights. Simple and nice.

And for this, I am thankful.

Day 260: New Paths

We had the most unbelievable day! We took advantage of the amazing trails that Colorado has to offer and made our way into the foothills to give Lindsey and Jaffer a real mountain experience. 

The weather was absolutely picturesque and perfect for exploring. Above all else, Jaffer was able to do his first ever mountain hike and we felt so honored to be able to share the beauty and exhilaration that is our backyard.

 

It was an awe-inspiring day and one that brought a new meaning to the word determination to me. 

And for this, I am thankful.

Day 259: The Perfect Day

Beautiful weather, a trip to Boulder, happy kids, hilarious conversation, a Spartan VICTORY and a night out with Lindsey and Jaffer = the perfect day.

And for this I am thankful.