40 by 40

Well.  I did it.  And I did it 5 weeks earlier that I expected.  I feel pretty good about that, truth be told.  Chris Powell is still in my head.  Thank goodness for that because if I have to keep walking out of the pool in the morning in 27 degrees or colder, I might just stay in bed!  Its been a good thing for me, as I think it would be for anyone.  There's been so much going on my world lately that I was worried that I'd lose my motivation to get up or just get sidetracked and too busy to exercise.  But I've stayed strong with my 4:30 in the morning workout.  It has been a good stress reliever. 
I have a friend at the pool in the morning named Ruby.  She's a doll of a thing, and its usually just the two of us in the morning for about a half hour before the other ladies start coming. We've both commented on how nice it is that we don't know each other outside the pool because we feel like we're able to come and talk to each other without the biases or prejudices or other factors that cloud our judgements with others.  We've shared tough things about our lives and its just been nice to have a confidant in the mornings to look forward to! lol silly, I know. I'm having mixed emotions for her right now, as she might be moving far away.  They desperately need for husband to get a job, but dang, I'd miss her! haha
Its the end of the goal.  I've set another one (20 by Spring Break), but I feel its also a good time to bring an end to my blog for awhile.  I'll leave it live, but won't be posting.  I'm toying with an idea that a friends of mine has done so maybe you'll see me again.  But for now, its been lovely :)

Its December

I know I'm stating the obvious by saying that, but "Its December" has more or less become the excuse I'm using for my life, as of late.  "Its December", as though that should explain everything. "Its December" in order to excuse my forgetfulness.  "Its December," to explain my bowing out of social events in favor of going to bed at 10 p.m. when I get the chance.  "Its December", in my world,  has just become a sign I should hang around my neck, a new license plate frame people can look at as I'm driving away from their house before the party is done, a decal I should have ironed onto my pajamas when I answer the door at 8:00 p.m.in them. 

Since "Its December," my life has consisted of hosting parties, both at work and at church.  So far they've all been relatively successful, and I hope, enjoyed by all!  I have one more today and another one on Saturday.  Cross your fingers for the best.  I've also been doing welfare for RS and Sub for Santa at school.  Doesn't sound like it would take that much time, but the needs this year are so many and just keep coming.  Every night seems filled with phone calls, texts, visits and meetings.  Its kept me on my toes most nights.  Since "Its December", I've also tried to do my Christmas shopping, wrapping and delivering.  I also tried my hand at cards for friends and family and wanted to tear my hair out by the time I was done with those.  (if you didn't get one this year... so sorry.  I'm thinking about you.) Since "Its December," I'm also fighting that pesky cold that likes to spend time with me during this time of year.  I'm praying I don't get laryngitis for the fourth year running.  True story!  Since "Its December", I'm also into my second month of being RS president.  That, in turn, has meant that I've been trying to get a grip on visiting teaching.  Wow.  There are no words, but  I think for the moment I can let the dust settle on that and see where we end up in a couple weeks.

Don't get me wrong.  I know I'm whining and complaining and acting like I'm so busy and no one else is.  Everyone has their stuff to do since "Its December".  There really are some highlights I look forward to.  Here's what else I get to do since "Its December."  I get to stay at the Hotel Familia Spa and Resort for Christmas Eve.  Since "Its December." I get to deliver presents to deserving families who cry and make me cry.  Since "Its December," I can sit in my living room with a cup of hot peppermint cocoa while staring at my little tree and listening to some favorite holiday tunes quietly playing in the background as I try to unwind from my long day.  Since "Its December" I pull out my favorite black and white Herringbone seat belt bag and enjoy carrying it around.  I also get to compliment it with my white, down filled, coat that is so warm and snuggly.  Since "Its December," I can watch cheesy holiday movies on Lifetime and the Hallmark channel and no one says a word about it.  I can watch White Christmas all I want.  Since "Its December", I get to go to sleep every night with my warm beenie bag on my tummy.

Mostly, since "Its December", I get to have an excuse to spoil those I love with dinners and presents and Christmas cheer.  It takes a boat load of time and effort, but hey "Its December."