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Four Day

I’m so excited about my four-day weekend that I can barely stand it. Work has not been the best place to be this week, so I’m looking forward to a nice, long weekend. Fortunately, I have no plans outside of watching the Stanley Cup Playoffs and the Timberwolves in the NBA playoffs. Outside of watching the playoffs, I plan on watching Netflix and chilling on the couch.

Speaking for four days, I have four days left on my four-week Apple Fitness + plan. I missed a couple of workouts yesterday and today due to a pinched nerve in my shoulder. I also had to cut my spin class short due to sharp knee pain, which was great. Outside of the last few days, the plan has been working fantastically. The yoga and Pilates are helping quite a bit. I love lighting some incense or palo santo for my practice.

The fitness plan ends on Sunday, so I’ll be starting a new one. One thing I don’t love about the plan is its lack of flexibility to change or move workouts once set. Consequently, I’ll be setting a weekly plan from here out. This way I can make sure the plan aligns with my schedule. Otherwise, managing the plan and my schedule is a bit stressful.

What personal belongings do you hold most dear?

The personal belongings I treasure most are the picture books I’ve made over the years. I made books for each of our Utah trips. When the boys are older and have their own place, I’ll make sure they each have a copy. One of my favorite Utah books is the book I made for Jake and I of our trip through the Mighty Five. It’s nice, thick, and great documentation of an epic trip across southern Utah.

Perhaps my favorite book is the cookbook I’ve made for my family. I compiled all the family recipes and put them into a beautiful book with family photos. Each of the grandkids will get one when they get married. It’s beautiful! Also, I’ve made some of the recipes so many times that the recipes are no longer legible. With the book, I can now easily read all of the recipes.

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Cleaning update

Well here’s the spring cleaning update. I have a lot of stuff and not enough places to store it. While cleaning out the closet, it struck me that I had a ton of old jerseys and concert t-shirts lying around. They’re not just lying around. Currently, I have them all organized in tubs on my closet floor. Since we’re at the end of the hockey parent journey, I think it’s time to make the boys each a quilt of their old jerseys. As for the concert T-shirts, I might make those into a quilt for myself.

The other big update from my spring cleaning is that I desperately needed a step stool. I can’t easily reach the top of my closets, cabinets, or bird feeders. Also, I don’t want to be climbing on top of the new washing machine to put things away. Consequently, I got myself a new step stool via Amazon. This way I can put things up high without putting myself in peril. Now I need to focus on improving the storage options in our closets and bedrooms. This way our space looks organized and not like a place where someone is dorming.

What is the legacy you want to leave behind?

My kids will be my legacy. I hope they approach life with kindness, love, and a sense of adventure. Moreover, I hope they make a conscious choice to make this world a better place by the way they interact with people they meet.

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Cold Weather

How do you feel about cold weather?

How do I feel about cold weather? Well, I moved to South Florida in 2005 from Minnesota and haven’t looked back. To be fair, however, I would love for the heat index to be lower than 100 today. That said, I prefer the steadiness of Florida’s heat to Minnesota’s rollercoaster weather.

Ironically, I couldn’t tolerate the cold when I lived in Minnesota. Now that I live in Florida and have been diagnosed with Graves, I can’t tolerate the heat. Thank god my kids play hockey! One of the nice things about a warmer climate is your old injuries don’t hurt as much. Those old injuries resurface as soon as I travel north into the cold.

Enough about the cold weather though, we had an awesome weekend. We played games, ate pizza, and watched the Panthers beat the Bruins with Jake, Melly, and Company on Friday night. It was an awesome hockey game and fun to share the experience with our expanded family. Saturday we headed to Fort Lauderdale for a birthday party. We had the best time. It was nice to actually leave the house.

I spent yesterday trying to shake off the sinus headache that had started Saturday. It took all day and several Aleve, but I did feel better by the end of the day. I did, however, manage to make some bread and get the laundry done. Unfortunately, I didn’t get around to making the cookies our graduate wanted. The hubby and I started watching the Timberwolves game last night. It was game 7 of the series. Sadly, it didn’t start well. Consequently, our superstitions from hockey left us to turn off the game. It was a happy surprise waking up to see the Wolves win.

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Friday Eve

I’m so glad it’s Friday eve. It’s been quite a long week at work. It’s amazing that on one hand, it feels like the year is flying by, while this week feels like it’s taking a century. The week started with my manager leaving the company, which is a bit unmooring. Up until today, the volume has been passable. Today, however, it seems to be a ghost town.

Happy Friday Eve!

Nonetheless, I am looking forward to dinner with my PanCan crew. We’re meeting up to celebrate the success of our PurpleStride event last month. We killed our goal! Also, the event had an incredible vibe and energy. I’m so glad that I could be there for the event this year. Hopefully, the stars align next year and I’ll be able to attend again. I’m also hoping to see Jake and Melly afterward since they’re still in town. Now if I could only cheat and make today Friday instead of Friday eve.

What’s the oldest things you’re wearing today?

Everything I’m wearing, for once, is relatively new. The oldest thing I’m probably wearing is my tank Fabletics tank top. Or maybe it’s the ankle braces I wear as a badge of my clumsiness.

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Spring Cleaning Essentials

Spring cleaning essentials: the must-have items to refresh your home. As the days grow longer and the temperature rises, it’s time to shake off the winter blues and embrace the freshness of spring. Along with the blossoming flowers, spring brings the annual tradition of cleaning and decluttering our homes. Having the right tools can make a world of difference when sprucing up your living space. Here are some essential items to consider adding to your spring cleaning arsenal:

  1. All-Purpose Cleaner: A versatile all-purpose cleaner is a must-have for tackling various surfaces throughout your home. Look for a cleaner that is effective yet gentle enough for use on countertops, appliances, and bathroom fixtures. Opt for eco-friendly options to minimize your environmental impact.
  2. Microfiber Cloths: Ditch the disposable paper towels and opt for reusable microfiber cloths instead. These cloths are highly effective at trapping dust and dirt without leaving behind streaks or lint. Use them for dusting, wiping down surfaces, and cleaning mirrors and windows.
  3. Vacuum Cleaner with Attachments: A reliable vacuum cleaner is essential for keeping floors clean. Be careful to not overlook the importance of attachments for tackling hard-to-reach areas. Look for a vacuum with a crevice tool for cleaning those areas. Finally, It should also have a brush attachment for upholstery and curtains. I love my Shark Rotator vacuum.
  4. Mop and Bucket or steam mop: Give your floors a deep clean with a mop and bucket combo. Choose a mop with a reusable microfiber or sponge head that can be easily wrung out to prevent streaks. For hardwood floors, consider using a gentle cleaning solution specifically formulated for wood surfaces.
  5. Scrub Brushes: For stubborn stains and grime, a scrub brush is your best friend. Keep a variety of brushes on hand, including a stiff-bristled brush for scrubbing tile grout and a soft-bristled brush for delicate surfaces like glass shower doors.
  6. Organizational Tools: Spring cleaning isn’t just about tidying up—it’s also an opportunity to declutter and organize your space. Invest in storage bins, baskets, and drawer organizers to corral clutter and make it easier to find what you need.
  7. Air Purifier: Improve the air quality in your home by investing in an air purifier. These devices help remove allergens, dust, and other pollutants from the air, creating a healthier indoor environment for you and your family.
  8. Squeegee: Keep your windows sparkling clean with a squeegee. This simple tool is highly effective at removing streaks and water spots, leaving your windows crystal clear and letting in more natural light.
  9. Odor Eliminator: Banish unpleasant odors from your home with an odor eliminator spray or diffuser. Choose a fresh, clean scent like lemon or lavender to impart a welcoming atmosphere throughout your space.
  10. Rubber Gloves: Last but not least, protect your hands from harsh cleaning chemicals and bacteria with a pair of rubber gloves. Opt for gloves with a textured grip to prevent slipping and ensure a secure hold on cleaning tools.

With these essential items in your cleaning arsenal, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle any spring cleaning challenge that comes your way. So roll up your sleeves, open the windows, and let the rejuvenating spirit of spring inspire you to refresh and revitalize your home. Happy cleaning!

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Mother’s Day Weekend

Mother’s Day weekend was fabulous! I had all three of my boys home, which was simply amazing. It started with a BBQ and the Panther’s game at our friend’s house Friday night. The game was incredible! Thankfully, the Panthers came away with a victory. It was a great night with great food, great company and some great hockey.

Saturday I went dress shopping with Mellie and her mom. We ventured out to Boca Town Center, which was more crowded than I’d ever seen it. The goal was to determine Terri’s preferred styles and explore color options. As the mother of the groom and mother of the bride, shopping becomes complicated. You want to compliment the wedding party but don’t want to be too close. Also, you want to be age-appropriate without being too matronly. It’s a delicate balance. Nonetheless, it was a great time.

While the girls were shopping the boys enjoyed golfing at Drive Shack in West Palm. Goalielocks impressed his brothers with his golfing skills. After shopping, I headed up to Gardens to have dinner with my fellow hockey moms. It had been way too long since I last saw them! We enjoyed a wonderful dinner at Avocado’s Cantina. I had two tacos that were out of this world. While I had dinner with the girls, the boys hung out and played video games.

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Sunday started with strawberries and waffles, which is always a great way to start the day. Before heading to Melody’s, I completed a nice run and yoga session. The kids, my boys, Melody and her cousins, cooked the Moms a special Mother’s Day dinner. The kids did such a great job decorating and cooking the meal. They decorated the table with photos and frames they had made for us. Additionally, they arranged to have photos taken of each family, which you know is Moms love. The best part was the video they created about mothers. It was the sweetest, funniest thing I’ve ever watched. They did such a good job! Another Panthers ‘ win was the cherry on top of a phenomenal Mother’s Day.

What’s one small improvement you can make in your life?

Financial freedom and the ability to pick up and go whenever I want would be amazing. Perhaps this is a bit offbeat, but I’d also like for health insurance to not suck.

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It’s Hot

It’s hot in here. The lack of working AC downstairs is killing me. Our room has been a balmy 83 degrees since the AC died Monday morning. Ironically, I became heat intolerant after moving to Florida. Consequently, I ended up sleeping on the couch as it was significantly cooler than our room. Both puppies kept me company and miraculously I slept pretty well. Nevertheless, it’s miserable in here.

My office is in my room, so I’ve been working in the heat all day. Did I mention it’s hot? It’s quite uncomfortable. Amazon just delivered the part that needs to be replaced, at least the one we think needs replacement. The Hubby is going to tackle that one as soon as he gets home. Hopefully, we’ll have working AC units both upstairs and downstairs. Otherwise, it will be another night on the couch for me and the puppies.

Do you have a quote you live your life by or think of often?

There are several quotes or idioms I hold near and dear. Carpe Diem is one of them as it’s a reminder to live every day to its fullest. The other one is from Victor Hugo. “Even the darkest will end and the sun will rise.” It’s a poignant reminder that even when things are bleak, things will always get better.

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Blah

Blah is exactly how I’m feeling now that I’m back to work after a spectacular week in Mexico. There’s something about coming back from vacation that makes work extra miserable. Of course, my AC stopped working last night, which makes it even worse. I just hate not being busy and being hot. It’s not a great combination for me. Fortunately, I’ve been able to get some work down in our room during my downtime.

While everything is feeling blah, I’m pretty excited about my new bird feeder. It’s got a camera! I set it up with the hubby’s help on Sunday afternoon. It’s so cool! The video quality is higher than our ring. Also, it’s really fun to see the birds and critters up close. We’ve consistently had the grackles, blue jays, and squirrels at the new feeder. I’m pretty sure the squirrel is a hoarder. He likes to fill up his cheeks, disappear, and then come back. The close-up view gives you a chance to appreciate the beautiful colors and patterns on the birds.

What is your favorite holiday? Why is it your favorite?

My favorite is Christmas! I love all the baking, family time, and laughing. It’s always fun to host brunch. Later in the day, we usually play games. It’s a great time.

Apparently, it’s” long list of ex-lovers” not star-crossed or Starbucks lovers
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My Tribe

I’ve spent the last week in paradise with what has become my tribe. This group of incredible women that I’ve come to know over the last six years is amazing. We came together from all walks of life and locations, yet our understanding, love and support of each others as mothers and women is unmatched. I’m so blessed to have not only met these women, but to have come friends with them.

Paradise, Tulum, was absolutely incredible. It’s a not a place a soon forget. And one that I hope I will be able to return to soon. I’ll write more about that later. I made it home late last night and right in time for PurpleStride. While I didn’t love the 4:30 am wake up, the chance to be with my PanCan people, my tribe was another blessing. As I got to the event I was filled with a sense of contentment. How lucky am I that I spent a week with My tribe in Mexico and came home to spend my morning with my PanCan family. I’m blessed to have found my people.

PurpleStride is PanCan’s marquis event and our largest fundraiser of the year. Today it’s happening all across the country, less Colorado where the event was cancelled due to protestors and the inability to ensure our participants safety. Our event was amazing. The vibe was positive and the turnout was incredible. We could have done with less wind, but alas we can’t control the weather. Nevertheless, it was another successful event! If only I didn’t have to go back to work on Monday…

What are your favorite emojis?

My favorite emojis to use when crafting any text or social media post are the face with tears of joy and loudly crying face.

By the way, you can still contribute to PurpleStride, by donating here.

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Excited!!!

Jot down the first thing that comes to your mind.

Excited!!! In less than 24 hours, I’ll be well on my way to paradise. I cannot wait to unplug and chill with some of my favorite people. I’ve finally started to pack. My goal for this trip is to use only a carry-on for the trip. This is a big step for me as I’m a consummate over-packer. As I type this, I’m sitting on my packing cube to try and flatten it. I’m choosing to be an optimist in this endeavor.

One thing I’m not excited about is that a raccoon found Bella the duck’s nest. When I took Anakin out this morning Bella was uncharacteristically sitting in the road. Our neighbor Mark picked her up and Carrie has been nursing her back to health. Meanwhile, I found some broken eggs around the tree. A few eggs were remaining, which are now with Bella at our neighbor’s house. Anyway, I better get back to packing!