It seems that every person I know...both in my professional and personal life..is incredily stressed, super busy, exhausted, and pushed to the limit. While all the magazines and professionals tell us to slow down, relax, and take care of ourselves, we continue to forge ahead at break-neck speed and with break-back loads. But what's a person to do when life is coming at them from every direction? An economic crisis hangs over our heads. Work and family responsibilities increase. Stresses mount. And there simply aren't enough hours in the day any more. Well I've recently joined a program via my employer's Health and Well-Being (HWB) initiative titled "Infinite Ways to Wellness" which encourages participants to focus on improving six key areas of personal wellness: Intellectual, Emotional, Physical, Spiritual, Occupational and Social. I've just started the program, and thus my weekly log of activities.
It's interesting (and quite an eye opener) to realize just how much (or how little) I do for my own wellness in some of those areas. The program asks us to list what we do each week for our emotional wellness? physical wellness? social or intellectual wellness? As a part-time student, my coursework each week helps me to work on my intellectual health . And I'm also (through the same group) training to run/walk a 5K marathon in April so that motivates me to work on my physical health. But what about the others? The HWB group has provided lots of examples of things we can do under each category and they've encouraged us to come up with our own. The ultimate goal at the end of the12-week program, of course, is a more well-balanced, healthy (and happy) life. And I'm all for that. Aren't we all? I'll keep you posted as to how it goes. But for now, let's just say that I need to work on my emotional, occupational, social, and spiritual wellness.
So, take time to think about what you can do each day this week for your own personal wellness. How about a 10-minute stroll, or perhaps it's 10 minutes to yourself for quiet reflection, or maybe it's 10 minutes listening to your favorite blues songs? Whatever it is, try to shoot for 10 minutes each day...ok maybe just 5 minutes to start out...of your own personal wellness time. And fill that time with something you really enjoy. Good luck!
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Super Bowl Sunday round up....
Go Big Ben and the Steelers!! The hubby and I just returned a few hours ago from an anniversary weekend away, it's half-time and the Steelers are winning. Life is good. Real good. It would be better if my Bengals were playing the Cardinals instead, but alas, they are not. And sadly, it looks like it may be a while before we make the Superbowl. So...Go Steelers!
And here's the round up for this week...
1. Last year's Tom Petty performance was infinitely better than this year's Bruce Springsteen. Tom rocked! Bruce sounds like he is just barely going to make it through the current song. Someone get that man some oxygen...STAT! He probably should have skipped trying to climb atop that piano.
2. I laughed out loud at the commercial where the office worker suggests eliminating BudLight at meetings to cut costs and his colleagues promptly throw him out the window..chair and all! Now that's funny stuff.
3. Jennifer Hudson looked and sounded amazing singing the National Anthem. She nailed it beautifully...her voice is just glorious.
4. Being married five years feels good. It doesn't hurt that my hubby is a sweetheart of a guy, and the years are flying by. It certainly doesn't seem like five years. Did I mention this already? Life is good.
5. The older I get and the more winters I spend in Ohio, the more I understand having a seasonal home in Florida. I really do.
6. And finally, just a bit about this mind-boggling $900 billion stimulus package that's working it's way through our government. I'm worried. Really worried. I'm concerned that these bail-out and stimulus packages are going to help but a scant few. It's sure to create bigger government and loads of "projects" but it will do very little to fix the actual problems. Bail-outs and stimulus packages cannot do what should be one....and that's to make absolutely certain that people at all levels of the economic puzzle learn their lessons. Save more, spend less. Don't bite off more than you can chew (or pay back). Reform loaning practices. If you loan to people who can't pay you back, then you must suffer the consequences. If you bought more house than you can afford, you deserve to lose it. If you have amassed large credit card debt, well guess what, you are responsible for paying it back. If that means you have to scale back your lifestyle, then do it. I think the economy, businesses, and our individual lifestyles need to suffer the consequences of our actions and then our economy will then rebuild strength on its own. Without government interference and "stimulus." Strong companies will survive, weak companies will not. As it should be. If we don't do it that way, if instead we are all rescued, bailed out, and stimulated, then none of us will learn anything. None of us and nothing will really change. And that's not going to help us. At all.
And on that note, I'm headed off to work on my taxes. :) Happy February everyone!
And here's the round up for this week...
1. Last year's Tom Petty performance was infinitely better than this year's Bruce Springsteen. Tom rocked! Bruce sounds like he is just barely going to make it through the current song. Someone get that man some oxygen...STAT! He probably should have skipped trying to climb atop that piano.
2. I laughed out loud at the commercial where the office worker suggests eliminating BudLight at meetings to cut costs and his colleagues promptly throw him out the window..chair and all! Now that's funny stuff.
3. Jennifer Hudson looked and sounded amazing singing the National Anthem. She nailed it beautifully...her voice is just glorious.
4. Being married five years feels good. It doesn't hurt that my hubby is a sweetheart of a guy, and the years are flying by. It certainly doesn't seem like five years. Did I mention this already? Life is good.
5. The older I get and the more winters I spend in Ohio, the more I understand having a seasonal home in Florida. I really do.
6. And finally, just a bit about this mind-boggling $900 billion stimulus package that's working it's way through our government. I'm worried. Really worried. I'm concerned that these bail-out and stimulus packages are going to help but a scant few. It's sure to create bigger government and loads of "projects" but it will do very little to fix the actual problems. Bail-outs and stimulus packages cannot do what should be one....and that's to make absolutely certain that people at all levels of the economic puzzle learn their lessons. Save more, spend less. Don't bite off more than you can chew (or pay back). Reform loaning practices. If you loan to people who can't pay you back, then you must suffer the consequences. If you bought more house than you can afford, you deserve to lose it. If you have amassed large credit card debt, well guess what, you are responsible for paying it back. If that means you have to scale back your lifestyle, then do it. I think the economy, businesses, and our individual lifestyles need to suffer the consequences of our actions and then our economy will then rebuild strength on its own. Without government interference and "stimulus." Strong companies will survive, weak companies will not. As it should be. If we don't do it that way, if instead we are all rescued, bailed out, and stimulated, then none of us will learn anything. None of us and nothing will really change. And that's not going to help us. At all.
And on that note, I'm headed off to work on my taxes. :) Happy February everyone!
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Sunday morning round up...on Tuesday
Here's the Sunday morning round up....a bit late, but still insightful. Or maybe not.
1. The Inauguration - what can I say? It was a monumental day for America...one to be proud of and to reflect on. I wish our new president well and hope he can accomplish all the things he has promised and the goals he has set for himself and our country. President Obama and his family are heartwarming in their love and devotion to each other. I like that. He's also incredibly articulate and a joy to listen to. I like that too.
2. The Inauguration - what can I also say? It was embarrassingly, astronomically, uncomfortably expensive. At a time when the country is toppling ever deeper into a recession, good folks are losing their homes and their jobs, and families are struggling to afford groceries, heat, and basic living expenses, spending $175 million on a "ceremony" seems self-serving and irresponsible at best, and incredibly selfish and short-sighted at worst. While the reason for the event is inspiring and heartening, the resulting budget for it is not. It leaves a bad taste in my mouth.
3. The Inauguration - what else can I say? I hope our new president is able to live up to the adulation, hero-worship, and incredibly high expectations being thrust upon him. He's only a man. A man whose biggest, perhaps only, noteworthy accomplishment so far was simply winning the election. Not a large and distinguished resume for the most important job in the country. And the thought of him learning the ropes on the job leaves me with yet another bad taste in my mouth. But I'm optimistic and hopeful.
That's it for today. Since it seems the inauguration and our new president is the only topic the media seems capable of discussing these days, I'm going to ride their coattails and write about nothing else as well.
So there.
1. The Inauguration - what can I say? It was a monumental day for America...one to be proud of and to reflect on. I wish our new president well and hope he can accomplish all the things he has promised and the goals he has set for himself and our country. President Obama and his family are heartwarming in their love and devotion to each other. I like that. He's also incredibly articulate and a joy to listen to. I like that too.
2. The Inauguration - what can I also say? It was embarrassingly, astronomically, uncomfortably expensive. At a time when the country is toppling ever deeper into a recession, good folks are losing their homes and their jobs, and families are struggling to afford groceries, heat, and basic living expenses, spending $175 million on a "ceremony" seems self-serving and irresponsible at best, and incredibly selfish and short-sighted at worst. While the reason for the event is inspiring and heartening, the resulting budget for it is not. It leaves a bad taste in my mouth.
3. The Inauguration - what else can I say? I hope our new president is able to live up to the adulation, hero-worship, and incredibly high expectations being thrust upon him. He's only a man. A man whose biggest, perhaps only, noteworthy accomplishment so far was simply winning the election. Not a large and distinguished resume for the most important job in the country. And the thought of him learning the ropes on the job leaves me with yet another bad taste in my mouth. But I'm optimistic and hopeful.
That's it for today. Since it seems the inauguration and our new president is the only topic the media seems capable of discussing these days, I'm going to ride their coattails and write about nothing else as well.
So there.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Sunday morning round up...
Well I'm back to Sunday morning round ups--where I comment on things happening this week in my own life or also outside of it. Just because I can.
1. Hubby and I are considering the purchase of another home--a place I have loved for years that has just come onto the market. We're undecided as the new house would be a larger mortgage (although completely within our limits) and we will not have sold our house before purchasing it. Scary...especially in today's housing market. It's made me realize, though, how lucky we are to be secure in our jobs right now...to even be considering having two mortgages at one time while others are worried about paying the one they have. We are very lucky indeed.
2. What in the heck is up with the Illinois Governor? I have to admit that it appears he was doing some unethical, unsavory finagling to fill the state's open Senate seat, but he's not actually been convicted of anything yet. How can he be impeached? And, I would bet this wheeling and dealing for seats, support, earmarks, and perks in the world of politics is a lot more widespread than we know or would like. Ever hear about glass houses or throwing the first stone?
3. I offer my deepest sympathy and prayers to the John Travolta family. I can't imagine the loss of a child. I simply can't. And please, media, leave the family alone. Just leave them alone.
4. There's always, always, someone that is worse off than you are. So stop feeling sorry for yourself and whining about it. Pick yourself up by your bootstraps, be determined to improve your situation, do what needs to be done, and make yourself and your life better. Or shut up about it!
That's it for now. Happy Jan 11 everyone!
1. Hubby and I are considering the purchase of another home--a place I have loved for years that has just come onto the market. We're undecided as the new house would be a larger mortgage (although completely within our limits) and we will not have sold our house before purchasing it. Scary...especially in today's housing market. It's made me realize, though, how lucky we are to be secure in our jobs right now...to even be considering having two mortgages at one time while others are worried about paying the one they have. We are very lucky indeed.
2. What in the heck is up with the Illinois Governor? I have to admit that it appears he was doing some unethical, unsavory finagling to fill the state's open Senate seat, but he's not actually been convicted of anything yet. How can he be impeached? And, I would bet this wheeling and dealing for seats, support, earmarks, and perks in the world of politics is a lot more widespread than we know or would like. Ever hear about glass houses or throwing the first stone?
3. I offer my deepest sympathy and prayers to the John Travolta family. I can't imagine the loss of a child. I simply can't. And please, media, leave the family alone. Just leave them alone.
4. There's always, always, someone that is worse off than you are. So stop feeling sorry for yourself and whining about it. Pick yourself up by your bootstraps, be determined to improve your situation, do what needs to be done, and make yourself and your life better. Or shut up about it!
That's it for now. Happy Jan 11 everyone!
Friday, January 2, 2009
A new year...the same me
Well, I've committed to a couple of resolutions for the New Year and yes, I do realize the odds are against me. But like millions of Americans, today I am optimistic and determined. I am committed and enthusiastic. I am woman, by golly! OK, perhaps I'll succeed at only a couple and completely change my mind on a couple more. Today, I refuse to allow naysayers and skeptics to dissuade me or convince me that I'm going to fail before I even start. So there!Take that!
Now that I have that off my chest, here are a few of my resolutions, actually goals, for 2009:
1. Get healthy. Yes this will mean losing a few pounds and eating right, but more importantly it means getting back to a regular exercise routine. (Actually I cheated and started part of this goal in Nov, so I'm already on my way to accomplishing this one!)
2. Write more. Here and elsewhere. This will mean, hopefully, submitting some of my best work, but more importantly it means developing a regular habit of writing. Period.
3. Develop a family financial plan. The national economy is in the tank and though we are doing just fine, we do need to aggressively plan for the future...for our retirement. This will mean saving more and making smart investments. Sounds fun, huh?
4. Complete my Associates degree by December. This is a tough one, and it may be the one that doesn't make it. Right now, though, that's the plan. I won't be stopping at an Associate's, of course, but it'll feel really good to get to that milestone.
5. Organize, organize, organize. Here and at work. Organize. 'Nuff said.
OK that's enough, don't you think? So, if you're reading this and you're still considering a resolution or two, go for it! What do you have to lose? Happy New Year!!
Now that I have that off my chest, here are a few of my resolutions, actually goals, for 2009:
1. Get healthy. Yes this will mean losing a few pounds and eating right, but more importantly it means getting back to a regular exercise routine. (Actually I cheated and started part of this goal in Nov, so I'm already on my way to accomplishing this one!)
2. Write more. Here and elsewhere. This will mean, hopefully, submitting some of my best work, but more importantly it means developing a regular habit of writing. Period.
3. Develop a family financial plan. The national economy is in the tank and though we are doing just fine, we do need to aggressively plan for the future...for our retirement. This will mean saving more and making smart investments. Sounds fun, huh?
4. Complete my Associates degree by December. This is a tough one, and it may be the one that doesn't make it. Right now, though, that's the plan. I won't be stopping at an Associate's, of course, but it'll feel really good to get to that milestone.
5. Organize, organize, organize. Here and at work. Organize. 'Nuff said.
OK that's enough, don't you think? So, if you're reading this and you're still considering a resolution or two, go for it! What do you have to lose? Happy New Year!!
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Happy Holidays!
Well, it's Christmas Eve eve, or something like that....and I just remembered I have one more present to buy for the hubby. I was waiting until the last minute because I was running out of places to hide things and didn't want him to happen upon the gift by mistake. But of course, out of sight, out of mind, and as I slid home on icy roads this evening and cruised into the driveway, I suddenly remembered the missing gift. And it's his main gift. The most important one. The one that will make him the happiest. Dang it! After a few minutes of panic, I found out that the particular store where I can purchase the item is open tomorrow so hopefully the ice will be melted and I can make a quick trip to get it tomorrow morning.
But who in the heck wants to be shopping for presents on Christmas Eve?!?!? Not me, I tell ya!!! Honestly, I had firmly planned to be finished shopping by Thanksgiving weekend (after Black Friday shopping!) I was determined to be done. I planned, I plotted, I started early!! What happened to that plan anyway? How did it get so drastically screwed up that I have been doing Christmas shopping every single week since then...and will be going out again tomorrow?!?!?
Well these past few months have been a blur that it's no wonder that I'm a bit behind. Ok...more than a "bit." But tomorrow, by golly, come hell or high water, I'll finally finish up my Christmas shopping! Really.
I'm behind in my blogging also, but now I'm back with an innocent hope and good intentions to create some kind of order to my life and that in doing so, I will also develop a regular blogging (and writing) routine.
Keep your fingers crossed. In the meantime, here's wishing you a wonderful holiday and new year with family and friends. May your life be filled with happiness and a calm peace.
Debbie
But who in the heck wants to be shopping for presents on Christmas Eve?!?!? Not me, I tell ya!!! Honestly, I had firmly planned to be finished shopping by Thanksgiving weekend (after Black Friday shopping!) I was determined to be done. I planned, I plotted, I started early!! What happened to that plan anyway? How did it get so drastically screwed up that I have been doing Christmas shopping every single week since then...and will be going out again tomorrow?!?!?
Well these past few months have been a blur that it's no wonder that I'm a bit behind. Ok...more than a "bit." But tomorrow, by golly, come hell or high water, I'll finally finish up my Christmas shopping! Really.
I'm behind in my blogging also, but now I'm back with an innocent hope and good intentions to create some kind of order to my life and that in doing so, I will also develop a regular blogging (and writing) routine.
Keep your fingers crossed. In the meantime, here's wishing you a wonderful holiday and new year with family and friends. May your life be filled with happiness and a calm peace.
Debbie
Sunday, August 17, 2008
Another Sunday morning...
...round up where I briefly comment on a few items that caught my attention this week. And here goes:
1. Michael Phelps is an incredible athlete, arguably one of the greatest athletes of all time. His breathtaking, record setting, and sometimes by-a-hair finishes are inspiring and a pure pleasure to behold. His excitement and dedication is contagious. But...after seeing an interview yesterday morning the news station did with his mom, I understand where he gets it. This is a family with its feet firmly planted into what's important and what really matters. Mrs. Phelps has done a great job, and Michael's closeness to her, the special bond that they obviously share is heartwarming and makes me like him (and her) even more. Way to go Michael (and Mom!)!!
2. All the USA Olympic athletes are inspiring. Those who win medals and also those who do not. All of them deserve our support, awe, and pride. What an impressive bunch they are!
3. Taking my little grandson out in the Sky convertible is a blast. He loves it!! He's only 2 so sat in a car seat as we cruised around this morning like two cool cats. Both of us in our sunglasses and with our hair flying. He glanced at me while we were stopped at a traffic light and said, "This is fun, Nana." And I said, yep it sure is.
4. Why is it that when a man drives around in a convertible sports car with his son or grandson sitting in a car seat by his side, it only magnifies his attractiveness. I mean, truly, what is sexier than a wonderfully sweet, handsome guy playing and hanging out with a baby. On his own!!! Without help!! But when a woman does the same, it only drags her sexiness down a notch (or three!). Oh it's still cute and sweet, but it really just serves as an alert that 1) she has a child (big red flag!) or 2) that she's old enough to be a grandma (bigger red flag!!).
Have a wonderful week!!
1. Michael Phelps is an incredible athlete, arguably one of the greatest athletes of all time. His breathtaking, record setting, and sometimes by-a-hair finishes are inspiring and a pure pleasure to behold. His excitement and dedication is contagious. But...after seeing an interview yesterday morning the news station did with his mom, I understand where he gets it. This is a family with its feet firmly planted into what's important and what really matters. Mrs. Phelps has done a great job, and Michael's closeness to her, the special bond that they obviously share is heartwarming and makes me like him (and her) even more. Way to go Michael (and Mom!)!!
2. All the USA Olympic athletes are inspiring. Those who win medals and also those who do not. All of them deserve our support, awe, and pride. What an impressive bunch they are!
3. Taking my little grandson out in the Sky convertible is a blast. He loves it!! He's only 2 so sat in a car seat as we cruised around this morning like two cool cats. Both of us in our sunglasses and with our hair flying. He glanced at me while we were stopped at a traffic light and said, "This is fun, Nana." And I said, yep it sure is.
4. Why is it that when a man drives around in a convertible sports car with his son or grandson sitting in a car seat by his side, it only magnifies his attractiveness. I mean, truly, what is sexier than a wonderfully sweet, handsome guy playing and hanging out with a baby. On his own!!! Without help!! But when a woman does the same, it only drags her sexiness down a notch (or three!). Oh it's still cute and sweet, but it really just serves as an alert that 1) she has a child (big red flag!) or 2) that she's old enough to be a grandma (bigger red flag!!).
Have a wonderful week!!
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Sunday morning round up...
On Sundays, I will be writing briefly about just a few things that caught my attention during the previous week. Some topics will be about me (are you surprised?), but most will be about the world around me. Some will be political, some news specific. Some will be about local events, some global. So, in no particular order and with no rhyme or reason, here are today's round up thoughts:
1. The Olympic competitions are a very special time. It's the one occasion, aside from national catastrophes, when every American comes together to root on their fellow countrymen and women. When we are all on one side. It's a feel-good time, a patriotic time, and time of pride and wonder. The USA athletes are glorious examples of mind-boggling strength and endurance, and of all-inspiring dedication and determination. So, to all the USA athletes who are competing, good luck to you....and win or lose, you make us proud.
2. My husband is Canadian, and I'm awfully danged fond of the place myself, so I must add.... To all the Canadian athletes who are competing....good luck to you as well and if we don't win, I hope you do! :)
3. John Edwards is an embarassment and a disappointment. And I don't believe a word he is now saying regarding when his wife and family knew about the affair, when the affair ended, and about not being the father of the mistress's baby. After he lied about the affair itself for months while thousands contributed money, time, energy, and heart to his fruitless, now precarious and doomed presidential campaign, why in the world would anybody believe anything he says at this point. He is a rotten liar...it's as simple as that.
4. Birthdays are great!! So a very warm and happy thank you to my family, friends and co-workers who helped me celebrate my own birthday this week.
Enjoy the coming week!
1. The Olympic competitions are a very special time. It's the one occasion, aside from national catastrophes, when every American comes together to root on their fellow countrymen and women. When we are all on one side. It's a feel-good time, a patriotic time, and time of pride and wonder. The USA athletes are glorious examples of mind-boggling strength and endurance, and of all-inspiring dedication and determination. So, to all the USA athletes who are competing, good luck to you....and win or lose, you make us proud.
2. My husband is Canadian, and I'm awfully danged fond of the place myself, so I must add.... To all the Canadian athletes who are competing....good luck to you as well and if we don't win, I hope you do! :)
3. John Edwards is an embarassment and a disappointment. And I don't believe a word he is now saying regarding when his wife and family knew about the affair, when the affair ended, and about not being the father of the mistress's baby. After he lied about the affair itself for months while thousands contributed money, time, energy, and heart to his fruitless, now precarious and doomed presidential campaign, why in the world would anybody believe anything he says at this point. He is a rotten liar...it's as simple as that.
4. Birthdays are great!! So a very warm and happy thank you to my family, friends and co-workers who helped me celebrate my own birthday this week.
Enjoy the coming week!
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