Wanting to familiarize myself with as much technology as possible, I have begun my YouTube experiment with a channel as Running2remake. I easily uploaded 2 videos! My Son's piano playing video was the test; he was happy to be a part of it.
The other video is part of my road to resourcefulness. I am attempting to get assistance in identifying the song played my a music box that I intend to offer on eBay. As yet, I have not received assistance. However, my current thought is to add a link in my listing, or to indicate that I would provide the link to interested eBayers. Now I need to find the time to list more of my collection on eBay, with which I am again having so much fun.
Trying new technology fits into my cross-marketing plan quite nicely....
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Terrific Tuesday
What fun we had skating downtown! Going out after dinner is something we don't do, but there's always a first.
Stopping at Starbucks on the way home was fun too, particularly because I had my free drink card! Now on to other things....
Stopping at Starbucks on the way home was fun too, particularly because I had my free drink card! Now on to other things....
Monday, January 23, 2012
A wonderful way to welcome the week
Today went well, and it's not over yet! Already, I have worked a full day, spent some time eBaying, sent a greeting card with the Apple cards app, went grocery shopping, cooked dinner, listened to The New York Times Audio Digest thanks to audible app on my iPhone, and thoroughly enjoyed a 1 hour run. Oh yes, and I also found the sneakers that my Son misplaced weeks ago. No one gave me credit for what I did, thanked me, or otherwise acknowledged my accomplishments one bit. No worries, though, because I will congratulate myself.
My run has shown me once again, as pretty much always is the case, that I am a much better person when I take time for a run. I feel great, which is reward enough for me!
My run has shown me once again, as pretty much always is the case, that I am a much better person when I take time for a run. I feel great, which is reward enough for me!
Sunday, January 22, 2012
Difficult day - making a sandwich generation
Today was lived in the sandwich generation. I began as the proverbial meat in the family sandwich -- my Son woke up way too early, and, therefore, joined my husband and me for a bit of a Sunday sojourn.
I then nutured my nuclear family with a hot breakfast and a weekly scheduling discussion. The Stonewall Kitchen cinnamon apple syrup was the luxury that I chose for this portion of the day.
Mom mode kicked in when I processed my Son through a special First Communion preparation mass at church, followed by CCD, and then his reward drive-through McDonald's lunch. The chosen luxury for this part of the day was time at Seven Stars Bakery with coffee and the New York Times while my Son was at CCD. I should have been grocery shopping, house cleaning, collection organizing, or working. However, I knew that I needed a chosen luxury.
After taking a bit of time with eBay, daughter mode kicked in when I took my weekly wandering to visit with my Mom. During that portion of the day there were no luxuries, only making sure that I kept my emotions under control while I processed my Mom through her afternoon. I had to take care of her, and couldn't draw from her experiences as I had done in the past. Though she is very independent overall, many details are beyond her ability (though some, like keeping track of papers, she really never mastered). I am totally appreciative of the fact that she lives alone with what in the grand scheme of things is minimal help. However, being her daughter can be challenging. After managing numerous items for my Mom, I left her eating the simple dinner that I fixed for her. Part of me wanted to sit and enjoy that meal and her company, but I had to go home to fix a simple dinner for my Son.
The next chosen luxury was a leisurely walk with my dog while listening to a few of my favorite podcasts on my iPod Nano. Even writing this post is a chosen luxury, which is helping me process the success of my day. I am content to be able to write while sitting in my living room with my husband, Son, and dog. The final chosen luxury of the day is taking time to watch Downton Abbey with complete concentration, which is a big deal given that the majority of my life is lived in multi-tasking mode.
Unfortunately, my run did not happen today, mostly as a result of knowing my limitations. Other things had to happen today, but tomorrow will be more under my control, with working and running at the top of my daily dos.
Mind murmur: At times, I don't want to be so competent; I wish someone to take care of me. I know, however, that such a wish is just that. Instead, I have to take care of myself -- and now more than ever. I need my wits about me to properly nurture my Son and my Mom, whom I call my bookends.
I then nutured my nuclear family with a hot breakfast and a weekly scheduling discussion. The Stonewall Kitchen cinnamon apple syrup was the luxury that I chose for this portion of the day.
Mom mode kicked in when I processed my Son through a special First Communion preparation mass at church, followed by CCD, and then his reward drive-through McDonald's lunch. The chosen luxury for this part of the day was time at Seven Stars Bakery with coffee and the New York Times while my Son was at CCD. I should have been grocery shopping, house cleaning, collection organizing, or working. However, I knew that I needed a chosen luxury.
After taking a bit of time with eBay, daughter mode kicked in when I took my weekly wandering to visit with my Mom. During that portion of the day there were no luxuries, only making sure that I kept my emotions under control while I processed my Mom through her afternoon. I had to take care of her, and couldn't draw from her experiences as I had done in the past. Though she is very independent overall, many details are beyond her ability (though some, like keeping track of papers, she really never mastered). I am totally appreciative of the fact that she lives alone with what in the grand scheme of things is minimal help. However, being her daughter can be challenging. After managing numerous items for my Mom, I left her eating the simple dinner that I fixed for her. Part of me wanted to sit and enjoy that meal and her company, but I had to go home to fix a simple dinner for my Son.
The next chosen luxury was a leisurely walk with my dog while listening to a few of my favorite podcasts on my iPod Nano. Even writing this post is a chosen luxury, which is helping me process the success of my day. I am content to be able to write while sitting in my living room with my husband, Son, and dog. The final chosen luxury of the day is taking time to watch Downton Abbey with complete concentration, which is a big deal given that the majority of my life is lived in multi-tasking mode.
Unfortunately, my run did not happen today, mostly as a result of knowing my limitations. Other things had to happen today, but tomorrow will be more under my control, with working and running at the top of my daily dos.
Mind murmur: At times, I don't want to be so competent; I wish someone to take care of me. I know, however, that such a wish is just that. Instead, I have to take care of myself -- and now more than ever. I need my wits about me to properly nurture my Son and my Mom, whom I call my bookends.
Thursday, January 19, 2012
mood mending - motion
Nature nurtures by mending my mood. This photograph makes me think that motion is motivating. The water is moving, which moves me.... Wherever I wander, I try to remember to take time to appreciate the awesomeness of all that awaits. Slow and steady works, as long as I am moving. Stagnation is what stalls me. I am meant to move....
Friday, January 13, 2012
Blog benefit
I can't begin to describe the many benefits I have taken from this blog. Journaling, thought recording, list making, and note taking always have been part of me to greater and lesser extents depending upon where I am at. Though my blogging has been much too sporadic, as life gets in the way my posts don't happen, I am glad that I have it as an ultimate constant.
Today, one of my blog benefits is primary. In the mail, I received a lovely book that is my 2011 blog. One week ago, after about 5 minutes of my time, I ordered that book from Blog2Print. What a fabulous and simple site that easily transforms by mind murmurs and more into a wonderful written product. I now have these books for 2010 and 2011. The substance of both is invaluable to me, but overall is better in the latter than the former. For example, I added just a few pictures to my blog in 2011. They have translated terrifically to print. Perhaps, therefore, a 2012 goal will be to post more pictures. After all, it ends up being another way to preserve them.
My mind is racing with blog ideas and more. What a wonderful year this will be! Its remaking promises to be among my most magical. Now I have to turn back to the realities of work, but I do so with renewed excitement and energy!
Today, one of my blog benefits is primary. In the mail, I received a lovely book that is my 2011 blog. One week ago, after about 5 minutes of my time, I ordered that book from Blog2Print. What a fabulous and simple site that easily transforms by mind murmurs and more into a wonderful written product. I now have these books for 2010 and 2011. The substance of both is invaluable to me, but overall is better in the latter than the former. For example, I added just a few pictures to my blog in 2011. They have translated terrifically to print. Perhaps, therefore, a 2012 goal will be to post more pictures. After all, it ends up being another way to preserve them.
My mind is racing with blog ideas and more. What a wonderful year this will be! Its remaking promises to be among my most magical. Now I have to turn back to the realities of work, but I do so with renewed excitement and energy!
Thursday, January 12, 2012
New news source
I am loving the new CBS morning news show. I was so done with NBC and ABC, relying only on NPR. Now I have two sources again. How could you not love Charlie Rose?
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
mind murmur - touched by another's thoughtfulness
Today, I was given a very thoughtful gift by someone I hardly know, and I was touched tremendously. The man who knocked on my door presented to me a lovely little teapot. The teapot belonged to my neighbor who died quite unexpectedly after being taken away by ambulance three weeks ago tonight. Since then, I have been so disturbed by my neighbor's death. I can't really define or express my feelings, which have been quite diverse. I often pause when I walk past his house, think that I will see him backing out his driveway, and wonder when our next walking encounter will occur.
We weren't close, but we were neighbors for over 9 years. His death leaves a void. I have no right to grieve, but I do. I will cherish my teapot as a remembrance of my neighbor, as well as the thoughtfulness of his friend.
Life often is about the little things. Today, a little thing was a big deal, and for that I am grateful.
We weren't close, but we were neighbors for over 9 years. His death leaves a void. I have no right to grieve, but I do. I will cherish my teapot as a remembrance of my neighbor, as well as the thoughtfulness of his friend.
Life often is about the little things. Today, a little thing was a big deal, and for that I am grateful.
Saturday, January 7, 2012
Letter G - going with gratitude
Today was a long day during which I mostly was a Mom. I am grateful to have that role, but getting through without being too grumpy was at times like playing a game for which all of the rules are unknown. In the end, I kept going with gratitude, knowing that what I have got is good.
I told my Son that I was playing a game of letters, without more specifics. I told him that today was words that begin with the letter "g." He offered, gorilla, grape, gather, go, get, and grandfather. It is interesting that he came up with the last word, as it was 15 years ago today that my Daddy, his grandfather, died. We knew the day was coming, but it was still difficult. On that Tuesday afternoon, I sat at my desk in an office that I had begun to work just over 1 month earlier, when my Sister called to tell me that Daddy died. That night, all by myself, was surreal. The next day, I made the 2 1/2 hour drive home, where my ex-husband met me with a hug. It was the end of an era. My Son and I said an extra prayer tonight for my Dad, and I thought quietly for a bit about my DIM memories.
Though not always with grace, I have gained so much since then. I have gathered and grovelled, at times with giant steps and at times with hardly any movement. I know that my life is filled with so many gifts....
I told my Son that I was playing a game of letters, without more specifics. I told him that today was words that begin with the letter "g." He offered, gorilla, grape, gather, go, get, and grandfather. It is interesting that he came up with the last word, as it was 15 years ago today that my Daddy, his grandfather, died. We knew the day was coming, but it was still difficult. On that Tuesday afternoon, I sat at my desk in an office that I had begun to work just over 1 month earlier, when my Sister called to tell me that Daddy died. That night, all by myself, was surreal. The next day, I made the 2 1/2 hour drive home, where my ex-husband met me with a hug. It was the end of an era. My Son and I said an extra prayer tonight for my Dad, and I thought quietly for a bit about my DIM memories.
Though not always with grace, I have gained so much since then. I have gathered and grovelled, at times with giant steps and at times with hardly any movement. I know that my life is filled with so many gifts....
Friday, January 6, 2012
Letter F - Focus Factors
This letter already was finished before today, and even this new mantra, began. Last year, I developed my five focus factors, rather than make resolutions. Those factors -- fun, finance, fit, food, and family -- are fine for me to feel fulfilled.
Today, not one, but all of the factors were in the foreground. It was such a busy day. On the work front, today was challenging, which made my 1 hour run even more fabulous. Taking time for that outside run totally landed me in a better place!
On the food front, I ate well, and once again was reminded that I love most foods. I enjoy flavorful food. I can be just as satisfied with healthy and unhealthy food, so why not choose healthy. The unhealthy choice most often results when time is limited. That situation is not a good one; I must put myself on better footing.
Today, not one, but all of the factors were in the foreground. It was such a busy day. On the work front, today was challenging, which made my 1 hour run even more fabulous. Taking time for that outside run totally landed me in a better place!
On the food front, I ate well, and once again was reminded that I love most foods. I enjoy flavorful food. I can be just as satisfied with healthy and unhealthy food, so why not choose healthy. The unhealthy choice most often results when time is limited. That situation is not a good one; I must put myself on better footing.
Thursday, January 5, 2012
Letter E - energetically engaging
On this 5th day of the new year, I energetically engaged in what needed to be done. Everything certainly did not get done as earlier expected, but enough was done so that at day's end I am entitled to be elated.
This entitlement was earned in part by tackling a difficult project, moving forward with effective resolve.
Though neither a run nor a work out was to be had, I did enjoy several easy walks with my dog. In exchange for that minimal exercise, I watched my eating just a bit so that on balance the day was a success in this regard. Eventually, I will fit in more of the desired one hour sessions, but not before additional evaluation.
For now, I am excited about eluding erratic behavior. I am easing into my new approach; I can't erase prior behavior, but I can open my eyes to better behavior.
I need to figure out how to elicit what I need to elucidate my needs. Following that process, I will educate myself and my loved ones to effectuate this year's remaking.
This entitlement was earned in part by tackling a difficult project, moving forward with effective resolve.
Though neither a run nor a work out was to be had, I did enjoy several easy walks with my dog. In exchange for that minimal exercise, I watched my eating just a bit so that on balance the day was a success in this regard. Eventually, I will fit in more of the desired one hour sessions, but not before additional evaluation.
For now, I am excited about eluding erratic behavior. I am easing into my new approach; I can't erase prior behavior, but I can open my eyes to better behavior.
I need to figure out how to elicit what I need to elucidate my needs. Following that process, I will educate myself and my loved ones to effectuate this year's remaking.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Letter D - developing the drive
This day was devoted to developing the drive -- the drive to focus on my work, and to get it done efficiently. Also, the drive to work out at some point during each day. Finally, the drive to fit in at least one extra activity each day. These three directions were driven today.
My schedule did not allow for the desired work out. Nonetheless, I did run on the treadmill at the gym. The speed and distance were not ideal, but, overall, the run was a success. Done is good, and sometimes good is just right.
I spent so much of my life striving to diet (finding the trick to drop the pounds), but now I simply want to focus on a healthy diet. At times, it's difficult to make sure that my Son eats well. Also, family dinners are extremely important to me. I will not diet, but I will watch my diet.
Often, I proclaim that I am done. How perfect is this statement? It applies to so much with which I am/can be done: complaining; maintaining my weight; coveting; and dozens more thoughts that are devoid of delight and direction.
This year, I am definitely dedicated to a daily dose of delightful declarations.
My schedule did not allow for the desired work out. Nonetheless, I did run on the treadmill at the gym. The speed and distance were not ideal, but, overall, the run was a success. Done is good, and sometimes good is just right.
I spent so much of my life striving to diet (finding the trick to drop the pounds), but now I simply want to focus on a healthy diet. At times, it's difficult to make sure that my Son eats well. Also, family dinners are extremely important to me. I will not diet, but I will watch my diet.
Often, I proclaim that I am done. How perfect is this statement? It applies to so much with which I am/can be done: complaining; maintaining my weight; coveting; and dozens more thoughts that are devoid of delight and direction.
This year, I am definitely dedicated to a daily dose of delightful declarations.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
Letter C - creating the course
Interesting that today should be the letter "c" with the Iowa Caucuses happening. They make me glad that I am not a registered republican; the antics are at times not to be believed. What is the saying about it being real because you couldn't make this stuff up?
Currently, I am creating my course with curious creativity. What will work for this remaking? Time will tell. This remaking must cause change, mostly in the care with which I treat myself. At times, I am too capable, which can result in my doing too much for others and not enough for me. It doesn't have to be too complex; I simply need to make me a priority.
Today was a full day back on schedule for the first time in weeks. I loved the hectic nature of December, but I am looking forward to the routine nature of January.
I successfully fit in my food and fitness focus factors. I ate well, using what I have on hand (which advanced the finance focus factor). Lately, I have been running outside, but this was a day for the gym. The 1 hour of a mixed workout was welcomed and wonderful. It was difficult to break away to get to the gym, but once I did, I was so much better for it! Satisfying my cravings for physical activity caters to my character like a charm!
Currently, I am creating my course with curious creativity. What will work for this remaking? Time will tell. This remaking must cause change, mostly in the care with which I treat myself. At times, I am too capable, which can result in my doing too much for others and not enough for me. It doesn't have to be too complex; I simply need to make me a priority.
Today was a full day back on schedule for the first time in weeks. I loved the hectic nature of December, but I am looking forward to the routine nature of January.
I successfully fit in my food and fitness focus factors. I ate well, using what I have on hand (which advanced the finance focus factor). Lately, I have been running outside, but this was a day for the gym. The 1 hour of a mixed workout was welcomed and wonderful. It was difficult to break away to get to the gym, but once I did, I was so much better for it! Satisfying my cravings for physical activity caters to my character like a charm!
Monday, January 2, 2012
Living the Letters: B -- back to basics
What better place to start? Today's focus primarily was on work, and secondarily on my Son. Beginning the new exercise schedule did not happen, but.... Instead, I ate rather well to make up for the lack of exercise. Beating myself up about what didn't get done will not happen; doing so is not worth the required negative energy.
The Runner's World quote of the day was perfect -- something about finding time for what's important. That will be my secret to this year's success!
Breathing deeply, balancing needs and wants, and believing in my ability to break through barriers provided today's beautiful and brilliant buoyancy.
I am ready, willing, and able to bring it.
The Runner's World quote of the day was perfect -- something about finding time for what's important. That will be my secret to this year's success!
Breathing deeply, balancing needs and wants, and believing in my ability to break through barriers provided today's beautiful and brilliant buoyancy.
I am ready, willing, and able to bring it.
Sunday, January 1, 2012
New Year / new approach -- Letter A
It's January 1st! I am collecting my thoughts for this new year.
Each day is a gift, which I will give to myself and others. There's plenty of time to do what matters. I will be selective and proactive. This is my life and I will live it to my advantage, rather than to the advantage of others., which too often happens.
My weekly wanderings will be welcomed. In doing so, the days will be detailed as necessary.
Today was a treasure.
This is the first day of another remaking. Overall, my focus factors remain the same. How I implement them will differ somewhat.
I will live the alphabet of this year's wonders
Letter A -- I am anxiously anticipating
Today, I acted. I accomplished activities at home. I spent quality time with my Mom. I enjoyed coffee with one of my sisters. I played a game with my Son. I didn't do everything I set out to do, but I did enough.
Each day is a gift, which I will give to myself and others. There's plenty of time to do what matters. I will be selective and proactive. This is my life and I will live it to my advantage, rather than to the advantage of others., which too often happens.
My weekly wanderings will be welcomed. In doing so, the days will be detailed as necessary.
Today was a treasure.
This is the first day of another remaking. Overall, my focus factors remain the same. How I implement them will differ somewhat.
I will live the alphabet of this year's wonders
Letter A -- I am anxiously anticipating
Today, I acted. I accomplished activities at home. I spent quality time with my Mom. I enjoyed coffee with one of my sisters. I played a game with my Son. I didn't do everything I set out to do, but I did enough.
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