I like to ride my bicycle...
Have put exercise on my weekly ‘To Do’ list,trying to be good….been for a few bike rides, the latest this morning
The joys of bike riding: (As I’m trying not dwell on the pain!)
-Going down hill…takes me back to childhood days,coasting down St John Hill to school.
-The promise of freshly made ‘Who Bread’ and butter when I get home
-Being alone with my thoughts. Although sometimes I’m puffing so loud I can’t hear myself think!
-The home stretch…LOVE the home stretch
-That satisfied feeling, knowing I’ve done something good for me today!
SIDE NOTE:
Commenting on Soule Mama's 'Who Bread' I wrote:
"Yum I've already made 2 loaves...
The first time i made it my husband called from the other room; "Immm what are you making?"
I said "Who Bread"
To which he replied; "What? Poo Bread"
"No 'Who Bread'-Wheat, honey and oat!"
Still not hearing properly his response;
"Orrr honey, so you mean Pooh Bread like in Pooh Bear!"
Your delicious 'Who Bread' probably forever renamed 'Pooh Bread' around here!"
The joys of bike riding: (As I’m trying not dwell on the pain!)
-Going down hill…takes me back to childhood days,coasting down St John Hill to school.
-The promise of freshly made ‘Who Bread’ and butter when I get home
-Being alone with my thoughts. Although sometimes I’m puffing so loud I can’t hear myself think!
-The home stretch…LOVE the home stretch
-That satisfied feeling, knowing I’ve done something good for me today!
SIDE NOTE:
Commenting on Soule Mama's 'Who Bread' I wrote:
"Yum I've already made 2 loaves...
The first time i made it my husband called from the other room; "Immm what are you making?"
I said "Who Bread"
To which he replied; "What? Poo Bread"
"No 'Who Bread'-Wheat, honey and oat!"
Still not hearing properly his response;
"Orrr honey, so you mean Pooh Bread like in Pooh Bear!"
Your delicious 'Who Bread' probably forever renamed 'Pooh Bread' around here!"
Labels: best me
Write on...
Last night I went to the 08 launch of Hillsong Women.
A few notes I scribbled as Bobbie Houston began to speak….
“2008 is ours to write…
An open canvas...
We can write a phenomenal year!”
The first words of (as always) a very inspiring message… my heart stirred. Similar really to other things I’ve jotted down and feeling more than ever the need to seize the year, not letting it slip by and blend into the rest….
A few notes I scribbled as Bobbie Houston began to speak….
“2008 is ours to write…
An open canvas...
We can write a phenomenal year!”
The first words of (as always) a very inspiring message… my heart stirred. Similar really to other things I’ve jotted down and feeling more than ever the need to seize the year, not letting it slip by and blend into the rest….
Labels: best me
A year of opportunity
"We will open the book. Its pages are blank.We are going to put words on them ourselves.The book is called Opportunity and its first chapter is New Year's Day."
-Edith Lovejoy Pierce
-Edith Lovejoy Pierce
Labels: best me
Today's the day!
Lucinda Dooley at Hillsong women this morning:
“Don’t have the attitude; ‘One day when………’
What are you doing with your NOW?”
“Don’t have the attitude; ‘One day when………’
What are you doing with your NOW?”
Labels: best me
Why not?
So awesome….hosted a group of kids and their leaders at ‘Kidsfest’; our churches big day out for kids today.
Get this they were from Coffs Harbour; 50 primary aged kids getting on a bus at 12am this morning to travel 8 hours to be with us…. Then home again this afternoon- PHEW
Thought if such a venture were up to me I would have picked all the reasons why it couldn’t be done…kids needing sleep, parents dropping and picking their kids up at unearthly hours. These leaders so amazing for making it happen… the kids enriched with an experience they’ll be talking about for weeks!
Inspired as I walked around with them today to be more ‘Can do’ than ‘No way, can’t’ when it comes to taking hold of some of the great but kinda tricky opportunities of life!
Get this they were from Coffs Harbour; 50 primary aged kids getting on a bus at 12am this morning to travel 8 hours to be with us…. Then home again this afternoon- PHEW
Thought if such a venture were up to me I would have picked all the reasons why it couldn’t be done…kids needing sleep, parents dropping and picking their kids up at unearthly hours. These leaders so amazing for making it happen… the kids enriched with an experience they’ll be talking about for weeks!
Inspired as I walked around with them today to be more ‘Can do’ than ‘No way, can’t’ when it comes to taking hold of some of the great but kinda tricky opportunities of life!
Labels: best me
On my mind to speak
Arrgghhh, very mindful that this is on NEXT WEEK…
Pondering, praying, writing down thoughts, preparing to speak 3 times, eeeek- never been a conference speaker before...I laughed when they asked me!~See the other speaker:my mum,whose brilliant.She's here in Sydney on route to NZ so have been running my notes past her
If recorded will try put up here as a podcast for anyone who may like to listen?!
Pondering, praying, writing down thoughts, preparing to speak 3 times, eeeek- never been a conference speaker before...I laughed when they asked me!~See the other speaker:my mum,whose brilliant.She's here in Sydney on route to NZ so have been running my notes past her
If recorded will try put up here as a podcast for anyone who may like to listen?!
Labels: best me
Believe it or not, you can read this..........
“I cdnuolt blveiee taht I cluod aulaclty uesdnatnrd waht I was rdgnieg.
The phaonmneal pweor of the hmuan mnid aoccdrnig to rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it deosn't mttaer in waht oredr the ltteers in a
wrod are, the olny iprmoatnt tihng is taht the frist and lsat ltteer be in the rghit pclae. The rset can be a taotl mses and you can sitll raed it wouthit a porbelm Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe.”
The phaonmneal pweor of the hmuan mnid aoccdrnig to rscheearch at Cmabrigde Uinervtisy, it deosn't mttaer in waht oredr the ltteers in a
wrod are, the olny iprmoatnt tihng is taht the frist and lsat ltteer be in the rghit pclae. The rset can be a taotl mses and you can sitll raed it wouthit a porbelm Tihs is bcuseae the huamn mnid deos not raed ervey lteter by istlef, but the wrod as a wlohe.”
Labels: best me
Carpark Laugh
Don’t know why I found this so hilarious…but it cracked me up. Just the thought of BP!
Last week seeing a Pastor we know pull into the ‘Special Needs’ car space, BP picked up the sign pointing out such holding it up to the guys window (as a joke!)
Arriving this Sunday the kids noticed the children’s pastors’ car in the same spot, suggesting BP take a photo. While snapping the shot, who drives past but the Pastor he’d hassled the week before... with real reason now to think ‘Whoooah ‘Special Needs’ obsessed car-parking guy!”
I know it’s not really THAT funny but the picture of BP being sighted again as the psyched-out parking police just has me in hysterics!!!!! He doesn’t get it either. Laughing at me laughing!
Last week seeing a Pastor we know pull into the ‘Special Needs’ car space, BP picked up the sign pointing out such holding it up to the guys window (as a joke!)
Arriving this Sunday the kids noticed the children’s pastors’ car in the same spot, suggesting BP take a photo. While snapping the shot, who drives past but the Pastor he’d hassled the week before... with real reason now to think ‘Whoooah ‘Special Needs’ obsessed car-parking guy!”
I know it’s not really THAT funny but the picture of BP being sighted again as the psyched-out parking police just has me in hysterics!!!!! He doesn’t get it either. Laughing at me laughing!
Labels: best me
Joy Break!
Sprung today with chocolate in hand when a friend popped in.
She emailed me tonight:
“Was great to see you today looking ever so cute in your casual comfy clothes tucked up in front of the TV on a cold day eating chocolate, my kinda girl! You had done your chores and were enjoying a bit of peace and quiet with your feet up. I'm glad I'm not the only one who does such things!
“Cute in my… comfy clothes” nice way of saying a scruff! A productive yet relaxing day...AND so good to see my friend!
She emailed me tonight:
“Was great to see you today looking ever so cute in your casual comfy clothes tucked up in front of the TV on a cold day eating chocolate, my kinda girl! You had done your chores and were enjoying a bit of peace and quiet with your feet up. I'm glad I'm not the only one who does such things!
“Cute in my… comfy clothes” nice way of saying a scruff! A productive yet relaxing day...AND so good to see my friend!
Labels: best me
SHOUT!
Was flicking through My Space last week; starting at my sister-in-laws page, then to friends of friends of friends...Banged into heaps of familiar faces including that of Jordan... he writes:
"Hey, they said we needed a voice. For our generation. Someone or something to make enough noise that everyone would follow. Everyone would start opening the right cosmic doors.
We have a voice, but what are we SHOUTING.
Looking about you will notice there are as many good people as there are bad - if you can tell by looking. But who is shouting loudest. Let’s make some noise my peace loving, happy folk.
If your neighbour can shout abuse at his wife - can you shout 'i love you'
If people in the newspapers can shout “you’re nothing” to their kids - can you shout 'You are the best thing out, the best gift ever given to me and your mum, you are in this world for a purpose and you can do things that nobody else in the world can do – you’re awesome'
Lets SHOUT it....this is a revolution, baby."
"Hey, they said we needed a voice. For our generation. Someone or something to make enough noise that everyone would follow. Everyone would start opening the right cosmic doors.
We have a voice, but what are we SHOUTING.
Looking about you will notice there are as many good people as there are bad - if you can tell by looking. But who is shouting loudest. Let’s make some noise my peace loving, happy folk.
If your neighbour can shout abuse at his wife - can you shout 'i love you'
If people in the newspapers can shout “you’re nothing” to their kids - can you shout 'You are the best thing out, the best gift ever given to me and your mum, you are in this world for a purpose and you can do things that nobody else in the world can do – you’re awesome'
Lets SHOUT it....this is a revolution, baby."
Labels: best me
Grey Away (The joys of getting older!)
Between here and the hairdressers…grey hairs in disguise
~ On Tuesday: a head scarf-717719.jpg)
~ Wednesday: Hair Mascara…‘Cover your greys
root touch up’
~ Today, Thursday: a cap for exercise class in the park…crashing here on the couch after-795894.jpg)
(My turned-up nose in full glory… my brothers used to call me ski slope nose when we were kids!)
~ On Tuesday: a head scarf
-717722.jpg)
~ Wednesday: Hair Mascara…‘Cover your greys root touch up’~ Today, Thursday: a cap for exercise class in the park…crashing here on the couch after
-795897.jpg)
(My turned-up nose in full glory… my brothers used to call me ski slope nose when we were kids!)Labels: best me
Take care of yourself!
Taking their advise...
“Did you know that parents often give to everyone else except themselves?
Taking good care of yourself has the same importance of taking care of your family.
Good parenting comes from a parent who takes care of these areas -
• They get enough sleep
• They build quality relationships with others
• They spend time on a hobby or sport
• They consider their spiritual needs
• They have regular treats!
Don't let your tank run so low that you have nothing to give to the people who matter the most to you”Ian & Mary Grant and the Team at www.ParentsInc.org.nz
...after walking the kids to school, crawled back into bed for the morning-just what the doctor ordered. Woke up feeling very rundown this morning after a weekend fill of kids!
“Did you know that parents often give to everyone else except themselves?
Taking good care of yourself has the same importance of taking care of your family.
Good parenting comes from a parent who takes care of these areas -
• They get enough sleep
• They build quality relationships with others
• They spend time on a hobby or sport
• They consider their spiritual needs
• They have regular treats!
Don't let your tank run so low that you have nothing to give to the people who matter the most to you”Ian & Mary Grant and the Team at www.ParentsInc.org.nz
...after walking the kids to school, crawled back into bed for the morning-just what the doctor ordered. Woke up feeling very rundown this morning after a weekend fill of kids!
Labels: best me
Laziness
An excerpt by Phil Pringle which was word enough for me, to get a move on, and complete one of my unfinished projects…
“The heart of the lazy will be ruled by frustration and anger unless effort matches desire.
The thrill of the hunt and the kill is all the lazy person wants.
To gut the fish, skin the bear or butcher the beast is too much like hard work.
The lazy man lives in an unfinished world - Nothing is completed.
The excitement of starting a thing soon fades to hard work that the lazy person does not want to do.”
“The heart of the lazy will be ruled by frustration and anger unless effort matches desire.
The thrill of the hunt and the kill is all the lazy person wants.
To gut the fish, skin the bear or butcher the beast is too much like hard work.
The lazy man lives in an unfinished world - Nothing is completed.
The excitement of starting a thing soon fades to hard work that the lazy person does not want to do.”
Labels: best me
Freedom Writers
Oh my goodness, just went to see the movie ‘Freedom Writers’….after my one hour round trip walking the kids to school and preschool; my permission to blob!
‘Freedom Writers’, another movie that absolutely gripped me…based on a true life story of one idealist teacher who makes life altering difference in the lives of her students. I wept watching it
Yesterday we went to the open day of a High School we’re interested in for our daughter. Later flicking through the literature, a line from their school newsletter caught my attention:
Albert Einstein once said;
“Don’t try to become a person of importance. Try to become a person of value”
A Catholic school, the principal then speaks of their endeavour to turn out young women of value rather than those who see only themselves as important…who are grounded in, and add VALUE to society
My heart is to make a difference, sometimes I don’t know exactly how or what to do but within me a quiet hunger to live a life that counts. Starting at home, I think I’m only beginning…
Labels: best me
Full on
I know 15 parties, no exaggeration and including my kid’s birthdays. One weekend I had 5 to go to…another friend commenting “Don’t you know how to say no?” Probably. But i wouldn’t have wanted any miss, nor had the heart to! I always thoroughly enjoy myself when there, it’s more the rushed feeling in between I could do without!
I think with 4 growing kids and all the activity that entails, our social circle just keeps getting bigger And/OR most of the population was born in Feb/March??! Mentioned to a friend this morning it’s probably been the busiest two months of my life...showing how cruisy I’ve had it!
But I like slowing down the pace; stopping to smell the roses, and green spaces to relax and catch my breath in… between the fun and action of life!
Appreciated a side remark J. John (A popular speaker/lecturer?-Don’t actually know too much about him!) made at ‘Colour’. He said people often comment that he must be extremely busy, to which he responds; “Ohh NO (In his distinct voice!) I’m not busy at all, I’m enjoying life”
Victoria’s thoughts over at ‘Dear Meagan’ also captured mine;
She says:“It's just that after getting everyone fed, bathed/showered, figured out, homeworked, happied, put to bed, getting the kitchen clean, emptying the rubbish bin and organising the dog, I prefer to colapse on the couch for about half an hour, then get up and wander around doing my own thing. Without having to think about anything. I am the sort of person who gets depressed if my life gets too busy, so I work hard at keeping everything simple and usually not having any commitments outside of managing five kids and a hyper-something husband. It helps to live in a boring (boring in a good way, like you say Janet) town where not much happens. I am vigilant about not getting busy and I know this baffels and even annoys people around me, but not everyone wants their life to be hugely full.”
She’s a total mum extraordinaire with 2 little boys and THREE foster daughters!
I’m learning…
Others are happy to help. About time, but I’m getting more clued up at asking this week for example; “Do you mind dropping J home after rugby practice
Cooking double and freezing half for those action packed days
Doing stuff along the way that i find pleasure in...
Saying “No- but thanks!” when a friend asked me to go the beach today. Would have loved to, but know hot on the heels of ‘Colour’ and a lovely time with my parents here this week- need catch up and reserve my energy to spend with my kids this weekend-especially as BP is away
I think with 4 growing kids and all the activity that entails, our social circle just keeps getting bigger And/OR most of the population was born in Feb/March??! Mentioned to a friend this morning it’s probably been the busiest two months of my life...showing how cruisy I’ve had it!
But I like slowing down the pace; stopping to smell the roses, and green spaces to relax and catch my breath in… between the fun and action of life!
Appreciated a side remark J. John (A popular speaker/lecturer?-Don’t actually know too much about him!) made at ‘Colour’. He said people often comment that he must be extremely busy, to which he responds; “Ohh NO (In his distinct voice!) I’m not busy at all, I’m enjoying life”
Victoria’s thoughts over at ‘Dear Meagan’ also captured mine;
She says:“It's just that after getting everyone fed, bathed/showered, figured out, homeworked, happied, put to bed, getting the kitchen clean, emptying the rubbish bin and organising the dog, I prefer to colapse on the couch for about half an hour, then get up and wander around doing my own thing. Without having to think about anything. I am the sort of person who gets depressed if my life gets too busy, so I work hard at keeping everything simple and usually not having any commitments outside of managing five kids and a hyper-something husband. It helps to live in a boring (boring in a good way, like you say Janet) town where not much happens. I am vigilant about not getting busy and I know this baffels and even annoys people around me, but not everyone wants their life to be hugely full.”
She’s a total mum extraordinaire with 2 little boys and THREE foster daughters!
I’m learning…
Others are happy to help. About time, but I’m getting more clued up at asking this week for example; “Do you mind dropping J home after rugby practice
Cooking double and freezing half for those action packed days
Doing stuff along the way that i find pleasure in...
Saying “No- but thanks!” when a friend asked me to go the beach today. Would have loved to, but know hot on the heels of ‘Colour’ and a lovely time with my parents here this week- need catch up and reserve my energy to spend with my kids this weekend-especially as BP is away
Labels: best me
Yay…
‘Colour’ starts tonight…16,000+ women in Sydney’s Acer Arena
And
The latest issue of ‘Parenting’ has arrived...this quote on it’s final page:
“I’ve learnt that you can tell a lot about a person by the way they handle these 3 thing: a rainy day, lost luggage and tangled tree lights” (Maya Angelou)
How do you handle these things??? Me:
~A Rainy Day: Stay in my PJs that bit longer and enjoy a cosy indoor day…if it went on too long though…
~Lost Luggage: Never happened, but would probably moan and groan if it involved waiting around
~Tangled tree lights: Give it a quick go before passing them BP’s way!
And
The latest issue of ‘Parenting’ has arrived...this quote on it’s final page:
“I’ve learnt that you can tell a lot about a person by the way they handle these 3 thing: a rainy day, lost luggage and tangled tree lights” (Maya Angelou)
How do you handle these things??? Me:
~A Rainy Day: Stay in my PJs that bit longer and enjoy a cosy indoor day…if it went on too long though…
~Lost Luggage: Never happened, but would probably moan and groan if it involved waiting around
~Tangled tree lights: Give it a quick go before passing them BP’s way!
Labels: best me
'Make your now wow!'
Notes taken as Brian Houston spoke on TIME…
All your time is a memory except for RIGHT NOW
Finding the value in the moment…
You can’t get time back
Time is in our hands…
We choose whether we maximize or waste it away
Seasons come and go; they change and have a purpose…
What is the purpose in the season you’re in now?
All your time is a memory except for RIGHT NOW
Finding the value in the moment…
You can’t get time back
Time is in our hands…
We choose whether we maximize or waste it away
Seasons come and go; they change and have a purpose…
What is the purpose in the season you’re in now?
Labels: best me
2 words: Overcome Obstacles
As said I’ve just experienced my first couple of days minus any kids at all, with my littlie now attending preschool Monday and Tuesdays…weird feeling, which I’m sure I’ll get used to and enjoy really fast!
Yesterday I went to my usual exercise class in the park and then kind of pottered around home tying up loose ends and attempting to make sense of the weekend mess and washing
TODAY though!!! marched myself off to the movies and then wandered at leisure around the shops getting bits and pieces the kids need for school
Went to see ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’ which impacts in so many ways…
One being… NOT QUITTING, but doing whatever it takes to beat the odds
The main character Chris Gardner’s hunger drove him on.
Reminds me of our first year of marriage when BP took a risk and we started a business on straight commission. Come Christmas time we sat down with his final pay cheque, calculating that it was only enough to cover survival costs and not much more.
I was one month off having our first child, but as i desperately wanted enough to get us through comfortably and to buy presents…went to a wholesaler and bought roses which I then walked around cafes and sold for the next three nights
When I arrived home after seeing this movie, two words spoken by some refugees on Oprah: '1.overcome 2.obstacles' had me too
The movie and words grabbing my attention for the rest of that day…
A needed fight and persistence to go for it in life, no matter what!
I guess you could say I'm inspired! ! A great day off
Yesterday I went to my usual exercise class in the park and then kind of pottered around home tying up loose ends and attempting to make sense of the weekend mess and washing
TODAY though!!! marched myself off to the movies and then wandered at leisure around the shops getting bits and pieces the kids need for school
Went to see ‘The Pursuit of Happyness’ which impacts in so many ways…
One being… NOT QUITTING, but doing whatever it takes to beat the odds
The main character Chris Gardner’s hunger drove him on.
Reminds me of our first year of marriage when BP took a risk and we started a business on straight commission. Come Christmas time we sat down with his final pay cheque, calculating that it was only enough to cover survival costs and not much more.
I was one month off having our first child, but as i desperately wanted enough to get us through comfortably and to buy presents…went to a wholesaler and bought roses which I then walked around cafes and sold for the next three nights
When I arrived home after seeing this movie, two words spoken by some refugees on Oprah: '1.overcome 2.obstacles' had me too
The movie and words grabbing my attention for the rest of that day…
A needed fight and persistence to go for it in life, no matter what!
I guess you could say I'm inspired! ! A great day off
Labels: best me
Colour Your World 07
Just got organised and registered for 'Colour Conference'
Probably my 4th year going now... totally amazing, life changing, inspirational, stuff!!!
Can't reccommend it enough
Women from all walks, talks,denominations, young and old gathered together under one roof for a truly spectacular couple of days
Colour 07 trailer:
Probably my 4th year going now... totally amazing, life changing, inspirational, stuff!!!
Can't reccommend it enough
Women from all walks, talks,denominations, young and old gathered together under one roof for a truly spectacular couple of days
Colour 07 trailer:
Labels: best me
My Flipp'n brothers...
at it again!!!
WHEN we were kids we all used to back-flip like crazy on the trampoline...probably near 20 or so years ago!!!!!
Well Christmas day fun and games on the cousins new tramp, my brothers started impressing with their flips...spurring me on do to do the same
"AHHhhhh, i might break my neck, I'm 35 now, Nahhhhh"
All which fell on deaf ears
So I'm up ...jumping
1 2 3 stop,
1 2 3 stop
over and over again, unable to quite pluck up the courage
SO what do any loving brothers do?????????
O well of course...
zip close the cage, point the hose at me,and jeer that if i don't go over I'm getting wet (takes me back to the days when they used to throw me in the pool for dancing in front of the TV when they were watching sport!)
Feeling like a trapped rabbit, and with the final threat that this was the last time or else...
I DID IT!!!!!
Oh the joy...flippin over and over, happy I STILL CAN!!!!!!!
WHEN we were kids we all used to back-flip like crazy on the trampoline...probably near 20 or so years ago!!!!!
Well Christmas day fun and games on the cousins new tramp, my brothers started impressing with their flips...spurring me on do to do the same
"AHHhhhh, i might break my neck, I'm 35 now, Nahhhhh"
All which fell on deaf ears
So I'm up ...jumping
1 2 3 stop,
1 2 3 stop
over and over again, unable to quite pluck up the courage
SO what do any loving brothers do?????????
O well of course...
zip close the cage, point the hose at me,and jeer that if i don't go over I'm getting wet (takes me back to the days when they used to throw me in the pool for dancing in front of the TV when they were watching sport!)
Feeling like a trapped rabbit, and with the final threat that this was the last time or else...
I DID IT!!!!!
Oh the joy...flippin over and over, happy I STILL CAN!!!!!!!
Labels: best me
Who are you not to be!
The invite for “Colour” arrived today and as usual even that’s amazing…Flicked through it...landing at this quote:
“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.
Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond imagination.
It is our light, more than our darkness which scares us
We ask ourselves-Who am I to be brilliant, beautiful, talented and fabulous.
Actually, who are you not to be!
You playing small does not serve the world…
It’s not just in some of us, its in all of us. And when we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give others permission to do the same…”
(Marianne Williamson)
“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.
Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond imagination.
It is our light, more than our darkness which scares us
We ask ourselves-Who am I to be brilliant, beautiful, talented and fabulous.
Actually, who are you not to be!
You playing small does not serve the world…
It’s not just in some of us, its in all of us. And when we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give others permission to do the same…”
(Marianne Williamson)
Labels: best me
Reading the ingredients
Although no where near getting right, this year have been attempting to purchase ‘whole’ foods when grocery shopping for our family
Have heard and read countless times about reading labels and selecting foods WITHOUT: numbers, preservatives, colours, flavours or any kind of additives.
Too many times to ignore it!
As I said we’re definitely not all there, and still knock back a fair share of junk (see cupcakes below) but thankfully ARE making improvements!
It’s now taking a bit longer shopping reading through the ingredient panels... starting though to suss out the good products
Today’s loaf of bread’s ingredients reading; “Whole- wheat flour, water, yeast, vegetable oil and salt…verses loaves of the past laden with additives, numbers and ingredients I can’t even pronounce. My oldest two kids once saw a news bulletin on such bread and how it has enough chemical rubbish in it to keep it feeling fresh on the shelves for days and days, which disgusted them greatly
It’s really back to basics isn’t it…whole, pure, fresh foods… with natural origins as opposed to those with ingredients direct from a laboratory! Maybe why I love baking these days too knowing exactly what I’m putting into something…
and am also on a mission to find the chocolate with the best looking, whole, delicious ingredients!!!
Any other thoughts OR chocolate reccomendations???
Have heard and read countless times about reading labels and selecting foods WITHOUT: numbers, preservatives, colours, flavours or any kind of additives.
Too many times to ignore it!
As I said we’re definitely not all there, and still knock back a fair share of junk (see cupcakes below) but thankfully ARE making improvements!
It’s now taking a bit longer shopping reading through the ingredient panels... starting though to suss out the good products
Today’s loaf of bread’s ingredients reading; “Whole- wheat flour, water, yeast, vegetable oil and salt…verses loaves of the past laden with additives, numbers and ingredients I can’t even pronounce. My oldest two kids once saw a news bulletin on such bread and how it has enough chemical rubbish in it to keep it feeling fresh on the shelves for days and days, which disgusted them greatly
It’s really back to basics isn’t it…whole, pure, fresh foods… with natural origins as opposed to those with ingredients direct from a laboratory! Maybe why I love baking these days too knowing exactly what I’m putting into something…
and am also on a mission to find the chocolate with the best looking, whole, delicious ingredients!!!
Any other thoughts OR chocolate reccomendations???
Labels: best me
Enter in to your rest...
I’m good at this one!
As a teenager a mum once asked my mother where I get all my energy from.
Mum replying “She knows how to sleep!”
BP reckons it’s in our genes as all my family love an afternoon nap whenever we can!
Now as a mother of four, with lots of projects on the go others often inquire how I do it all; Again putting it down to knowing how to rest as the opportunity presents itself!
Just today taking a long hot bath in the middle of the day as my 2 year old napped!
At first being so indulgent in the middle of the day may seem lazy … but when considering the waking hours we as women put into our home, work and families is actually well deserved!
Who knows we might have work tirelessly right on through into the night…
Any shift worker knows they need rest during the day!
With the demands and unpredictability of children, we need take a rest when we can … I napped in the afternoon for years when my babies did.
Can’t find any window of opportunity to rest?
You might have to plan for it…
-A couple I know who both work outside the home, each have an allocated weekend day which is there’s for a sleep-in!
-When in high-school a mum hired me for a couple of hours/week to amuse her daughter while she took some time out
-Last week another mum mentioned that when they’ve had a late Saturday night she’ll set the cereal on the table and milk in little juice popper bottles ready for the kids in the fridge, allowing hubby and herself an hours extra sleep in
-My mother said when feeling rundown with four under 4, she would shut us all (Including her!) into the lounge, and knowing we’re safe and playing in one place, lie and rest on the couch
-Just today I bumped into a mum from school, gathering supplies at the shop, and ready in her bikini underneath to hit the beach. A mother of three with her own cleaning business who said she’s designated Tuesdays as her day to do whatever!
Any other thoughts and ideas???
As a teenager a mum once asked my mother where I get all my energy from.
Mum replying “She knows how to sleep!”
BP reckons it’s in our genes as all my family love an afternoon nap whenever we can!
Now as a mother of four, with lots of projects on the go others often inquire how I do it all; Again putting it down to knowing how to rest as the opportunity presents itself!
Just today taking a long hot bath in the middle of the day as my 2 year old napped!
At first being so indulgent in the middle of the day may seem lazy … but when considering the waking hours we as women put into our home, work and families is actually well deserved!
Who knows we might have work tirelessly right on through into the night…
Any shift worker knows they need rest during the day!
With the demands and unpredictability of children, we need take a rest when we can … I napped in the afternoon for years when my babies did.
Can’t find any window of opportunity to rest?
You might have to plan for it…
-A couple I know who both work outside the home, each have an allocated weekend day which is there’s for a sleep-in!
-When in high-school a mum hired me for a couple of hours/week to amuse her daughter while she took some time out
-Last week another mum mentioned that when they’ve had a late Saturday night she’ll set the cereal on the table and milk in little juice popper bottles ready for the kids in the fridge, allowing hubby and herself an hours extra sleep in
-My mother said when feeling rundown with four under 4, she would shut us all (Including her!) into the lounge, and knowing we’re safe and playing in one place, lie and rest on the couch
-Just today I bumped into a mum from school, gathering supplies at the shop, and ready in her bikini underneath to hit the beach. A mother of three with her own cleaning business who said she’s designated Tuesdays as her day to do whatever!
Any other thoughts and ideas???
Labels: best me
On an ordinary day...
“DON’T WASTE YOU ORDINARY DAYS, PREPARE FOR YOUR SPECTACULAR DAYS”
Life is mostly made up of ordinary ‘every-days’, with a few that are simply spectacular thrown in here and there.
What’s an ordinary day for you??
In this ordinary day though!!! I’ve been pondering the above quote and attempting not to waste such a day but prepare within them for the spectacular!
What spectacular day do you envisage and would love to see come to pass?
How do you waste ordinary days?
What can you do instead to move closer to those desired moments?!
And apply by regularly DOING something (Even if small),to move towards your dreams.
Life is mostly made up of ordinary ‘every-days’, with a few that are simply spectacular thrown in here and there.
What’s an ordinary day for you??
In this ordinary day though!!! I’ve been pondering the above quote and attempting not to waste such a day but prepare within them for the spectacular!
What spectacular day do you envisage and would love to see come to pass?
How do you waste ordinary days?
What can you do instead to move closer to those desired moments?!
And apply by regularly DOING something (Even if small),to move towards your dreams.
Labels: best me
Am NOW 35!
Had a great day and night away with BP at Lillianfels (Beautiful!) in the Blue Mountains…
The 3 sisters here:
Came home to a delicious lunch mum and the kids had prepared:
And mum took us all out to a Restaurant for dinner that night
= heaps of feasting! Probably a couple of kilos heavier but not brave enough to weigh myself…already been to a mums exercise class in the park this morning!
35~yikes I was saying to BP when we were away…Wow people 50 years old are only 15 years older than us (He’s the same age)…
It dawned on me too that this woman I thought was looking good for her age at 40 is actually only 5 years older than us!
Definitely NOW wayyyy closer to 40 than 20!
Not that I mind!
I reminded BP of a comment he made years ago (That stuck in my memory!)
An observation that he thought women really started aging once they hit 35! I joked with him that he therefore better get me a few shots of botox for my birthday
“No way” he said. Preferring I age gracefully and probably more to the point cost effectively!
Although I’m not rejoicing over my emerging creases (And folds) and, who knows (???) may be tempted to consider help one day...
Want to endeavour above the external to pay more attention to beautifying the hidden place of my heart…. True beauty flowing from a heart at rest
Stasi Elderedge writes, “Contrary to what the world claims, beauty does not diminish with time; Beauty deepens and increases. True beauty comes from a depth of soul that can only be attained through living many years well.”
She describes the most beautiful woman she’d ever met, explaining how something just clicked for her when encountering this gorgeous 75year old:
“I finally understood” she says “It takes THAT LONG to become THAT BEAUTIFUL!”
P.S. BP is expecting to be harassed for his comments...Go on!
The 3 sisters here:
Came home to a delicious lunch mum and the kids had prepared:
And mum took us all out to a Restaurant for dinner that night= heaps of feasting! Probably a couple of kilos heavier but not brave enough to weigh myself…already been to a mums exercise class in the park this morning!
35~yikes I was saying to BP when we were away…Wow people 50 years old are only 15 years older than us (He’s the same age)…
It dawned on me too that this woman I thought was looking good for her age at 40 is actually only 5 years older than us!
Definitely NOW wayyyy closer to 40 than 20!
Not that I mind!
I reminded BP of a comment he made years ago (That stuck in my memory!)
An observation that he thought women really started aging once they hit 35! I joked with him that he therefore better get me a few shots of botox for my birthday
“No way” he said. Preferring I age gracefully and probably more to the point cost effectively!
Although I’m not rejoicing over my emerging creases (And folds) and, who knows (???) may be tempted to consider help one day...
Want to endeavour above the external to pay more attention to beautifying the hidden place of my heart…. True beauty flowing from a heart at rest
Stasi Elderedge
writes, “Contrary to what the world claims, beauty does not diminish with time; Beauty deepens and increases. True beauty comes from a depth of soul that can only be attained through living many years well.”She describes the most beautiful woman she’d ever met, explaining how something just clicked for her when encountering this gorgeous 75year old:
“I finally understood” she says “It takes THAT LONG to become THAT BEAUTIFUL!”
P.S. BP is expecting to be harassed for his comments...Go on!
Labels: best me
Breaking it down
Our first real life, face to face Bestlife happened last night…went really well!
After supper, chit-chat and a good laugh…our topic for discussion was “Living Your Best Life Today” breaking it down into 3 parts: ‘Living’, ‘Your Best life’, ‘today’, brain-storming under each heading:
LIVING: Not dead! Active, not just going through the motions, but in the moment: present…
YOUR BEST LIFE: discussing “What does that look like for you?” Realizing it has a lot to do with contentment whatever circumstance life finds us in
TODAY: Now! In it, not postponed, or delayed…happening as we speak…Not waiting for perfect conditions to do something or respond a certain way, asking of ourselves “Why do we at times put off real living?"
Then pulling all three together…..Motivated! Knowing we’re not going to always get it right and will have bad days. But determining all the same to enjoy the season of life we’re in now… TODAY; present in the moment!
Remembering too the amazing passion of Steve Irwin; ‘The Crocodile Hunter’ who passed away on Monday. His said motto: “Live life, love life, LIVE IN IT”, and enthusiasm inspiring!
After supper, chit-chat and a good laugh…our topic for discussion was “Living Your Best Life Today” breaking it down into 3 parts: ‘Living’, ‘Your Best life’, ‘today’, brain-storming under each heading:
LIVING: Not dead! Active, not just going through the motions, but in the moment: present…
YOUR BEST LIFE: discussing “What does that look like for you?” Realizing it has a lot to do with contentment whatever circumstance life finds us in
TODAY: Now! In it, not postponed, or delayed…happening as we speak…Not waiting for perfect conditions to do something or respond a certain way, asking of ourselves “Why do we at times put off real living?"
Then pulling all three together…..Motivated! Knowing we’re not going to always get it right and will have bad days. But determining all the same to enjoy the season of life we’re in now… TODAY; present in the moment!
Remembering too the amazing passion of Steve Irwin; ‘The Crocodile Hunter’ who passed away on Monday. His said motto: “Live life, love life, LIVE IN IT”, and enthusiasm inspiring!Labels: best me
We need each other
‘The Best Me’ lives in community!
Was talking with another mum the other night (At the banquet our table won for the Trivia night!) and we both mentioned how we love the community feel of the areas we live.
Love having a local shopping village you can walk to, know the shopkeepers and always bang into a familiar face.
Love the school and sporting community that develop… Cheering on our kids on together, being a team
Love having a church family…feels like I could go any where in the world and still find ‘home’
Love close family and life long friends. Even though we haven’t seen each other for a while we just seem pick-up where we left off
Love the laughter, conversation and LIFE that erupts when friends get together …
Was talking with another mum the other night (At the banquet our table won for the Trivia night!) and we both mentioned how we love the community feel of the areas we live.
Love having a local shopping village you can walk to, know the shopkeepers and always bang into a familiar face.
Love the school and sporting community that develop… Cheering on our kids on together, being a team
Love having a church family…feels like I could go any where in the world and still find ‘home’
Love close family and life long friends. Even though we haven’t seen each other for a while we just seem pick-up where we left off
Love the laughter, conversation and LIFE that erupts when friends get together …
Labels: best me
CHECK-UP OVER-HAUL
August 1st 2006
Complemented at the dentist,no strength at the doctors:
Stunned, and was told off by both the doctor and dentist;
Dentist: “Our records show you were scheduled to be back here 4 years ago”
Doctor:” Your last smear was what? 7 years ago!”
Last week got the check up ball rolling with blood tests as haven’t been able to beat a nagging tired feeling…And NEED my energy!
Then onto the dentists chair…which confirmed that their aren’t many teeth left to fill (!!) and the lil tooth with a dull ache as expected in need of further X-rays and treatment
And a compliment mid check-ups!!!
Leaving the dental x-ray room the lady called me back explaining she just noted a mistake on their records; asking when I was born…
After telling her, she replied “OH you don’t look that old” …The room very dimly lit
Feeling it though explaining to my doctor today that I’m still tired….perhaps part and parcel of having four children?!
Blood tests results however showed that although all else is well I have anemia and a low iron count…Doctor putting it down to the nature of the beast (monthly one) which is unreasonably heavy, suggesting an indefinite supply of iron tablets
If you have gaps like mine between dental and doctor check-ups...take this as YOUR cue TODAY! Go on I'm getting nervous that the little tooth I've left aching too long might have to be pulled out Noooooo! Quick make that appointment NOW!
Complemented at the dentist,no strength at the doctors:
Stunned, and was told off by both the doctor and dentist;
Dentist: “Our records show you were scheduled to be back here 4 years ago”
Doctor:” Your last smear was what? 7 years ago!”
Last week got the check up ball rolling with blood tests as haven’t been able to beat a nagging tired feeling…And NEED my energy!
Then onto the dentists chair…which confirmed that their aren’t many teeth left to fill (!!) and the lil tooth with a dull ache as expected in need of further X-rays and treatment
And a compliment mid check-ups!!!
Leaving the dental x-ray room the lady called me back explaining she just noted a mistake on their records; asking when I was born…
After telling her, she replied “OH you don’t look that old” …The room very dimly lit
Feeling it though explaining to my doctor today that I’m still tired….perhaps part and parcel of having four children?!
Blood tests results however showed that although all else is well I have anemia and a low iron count…Doctor putting it down to the nature of the beast (monthly one) which is unreasonably heavy, suggesting an indefinite supply of iron tablets
If you have gaps like mine between dental and doctor check-ups...take this as YOUR cue TODAY! Go on I'm getting nervous that the little tooth I've left aching too long might have to be pulled out Noooooo! Quick make that appointment NOW!
Labels: best me
SLOW DOWN, STOP!
July 31st 2006
Great advise from Dr Phil Pringle:
Quote - 'He that can take rest is greater than he that can take cities' - Benjamin Franklin
The most creative times you’ll have are when you’ve stopped and you’re resting
Walk slower and keep creativity flowing.
Walk slower amongst people.
Don’t rush.
Don’t appear as though you’ve got something more important to do and must be on your way
Take extra time with the job at hand.”
Great advise from Dr Phil Pringle:
Quote - 'He that can take rest is greater than he that can take cities' - Benjamin Franklin
The most creative times you’ll have are when you’ve stopped and you’re resting
Walk slower and keep creativity flowing.
Walk slower amongst people.
Don’t rush.
Don’t appear as though you’ve got something more important to do and must be on your way
Take extra time with the job at hand.”
Labels: best me
HARD TIMES
July 28th 2006
Life can be interesting can’t it! The older I get the more I’m contemplating the issues of life…so deep of me! I don’t think I thought much when I was younger, was so carefree!!!
Am not despising though the difficult times knowing “The hard times make me stronger” and when worked through properly have evidenced actually add something of value to my life and learning!
Once heard it said that the tests of life can actually become testimonies that help and give hope to others.
Why is someone called an overcomer, victor, ground-breaker,survivor etc, other than they’ve had issues to overcome, ground to break, battles to win or came out of it still alive!!!
Life is seasonal and know today this note will find some in cold, desperate of places and others dancing on mountain tops
For those facing challenging times, my compassion is stirred and prayers go out… please know no matter what “There IS HOPE for your final outcome!” and a God who cares…
Life can be interesting can’t it! The older I get the more I’m contemplating the issues of life…so deep of me! I don’t think I thought much when I was younger, was so carefree!!!
Am not despising though the difficult times knowing “The hard times make me stronger” and when worked through properly have evidenced actually add something of value to my life and learning!
Once heard it said that the tests of life can actually become testimonies that help and give hope to others.
Why is someone called an overcomer, victor, ground-breaker,survivor etc, other than they’ve had issues to overcome, ground to break, battles to win or came out of it still alive!!!
Life is seasonal and know today this note will find some in cold, desperate of places and others dancing on mountain tops
For those facing challenging times, my compassion is stirred and prayers go out… please know no matter what “There IS HOPE for your final outcome!” and a God who cares…
Labels: best me
FIRST THINGS FIRST
July 21st 2006
BP sent me through an article by Brian Tracy that I have snipped and shortened, recording the main gist of here:
"There is never enough time to do everything, but there is always enough time to do the most important thing."
When you run out of time and the consequences for non-completion of a task or project are really serious: YOU ALWAYS FIND THE TIME to get it done, often at the very last minute. (Anyone remember those Uni assignments finished in the early hours of the morning!)
The fact is you are often ALREADY OVERWHELMED:
Apparently the average person today is working at 110% to 130% of capacity…and the jobs and responsibilities just keep piling up. What this means is that you will never be caught up. All you can hope for is to be on top of your most important responsibilities.The others will just have to wait!
The Question to ASK:
"What is the most valuable use of my time, RIGHT NOW?"
Do first things first;“The things that matter most must never be at the mercy of the things that matter least” (Goethe)
Set clear priorities and get started on that which represents the most valuable use of your time!
BP sent me through an article by Brian Tracy that I have snipped and shortened, recording the main gist of here:
"There is never enough time to do everything, but there is always enough time to do the most important thing."
When you run out of time and the consequences for non-completion of a task or project are really serious: YOU ALWAYS FIND THE TIME to get it done, often at the very last minute. (Anyone remember those Uni assignments finished in the early hours of the morning!)
The fact is you are often ALREADY OVERWHELMED:
Apparently the average person today is working at 110% to 130% of capacity…and the jobs and responsibilities just keep piling up. What this means is that you will never be caught up. All you can hope for is to be on top of your most important responsibilities.The others will just have to wait!
The Question to ASK:
"What is the most valuable use of my time, RIGHT NOW?"
Do first things first;“The things that matter most must never be at the mercy of the things that matter least” (Goethe)
Set clear priorities and get started on that which represents the most valuable use of your time!
Labels: best me
RE-READING BEST LIFE
July 11th 2006
It’s doing me good!
When dad was here a few trips back he bought me this book because of the apt title: Live your best life now by Joel Osteen, Pastor of Lakewood Church in Houston
I’ve never read a book twice, but am now on my second time through, underlining as I go.
Although I’ve heard a lot of it before… find flicking through the pages positively charges me!
As i began rereading the other night, felt encouraged again to lift my level of expectancy….
Remember a while back; “The smallness you feel comes from within you” (The Message)
Am continually challenged at present to reprogram my mind, break self-imposed limits and expect more!
Page 25: “Don’t travel the road for the next 50 years and end up at the same place you’re at today”
Go further...
It’s doing me good!
When dad was here a few trips back he bought me this book because of the apt title: Live your best life now by Joel Osteen, Pastor of Lakewood Church in Houston
I’ve never read a book twice, but am now on my second time through, underlining as I go.
Although I’ve heard a lot of it before… find flicking through the pages positively charges me!
As i began rereading the other night, felt encouraged again to lift my level of expectancy….
Remember a while back; “The smallness you feel comes from within you” (The Message)
Am continually challenged at present to reprogram my mind, break self-imposed limits and expect more!
Page 25: “Don’t travel the road for the next 50 years and end up at the same place you’re at today”
Go further...
Labels: best me
"YOU GOTTA HAVE FRIENDS"
Heard Donna Crouch read out this quote on Thursday (Yep I’m full of quotes at the moment!)
“You will make more friends in two years by being interested in others, than in 2 years of trying to get others to be interested in you”
...didn’t catch who originally said it?!
“You will make more friends in two years by being interested in others, than in 2 years of trying to get others to be interested in you”
...didn’t catch who originally said it?!
Labels: best me
ONE OF A KIND
June 8th 2006
Heard a great illustration once (I think from my mum) about Ikea furniture vs. designer originals
We love Ikea for the inexpensive bits and pieces we can pick up. Going into each others homes we can spot out the Ikea products and think “I know where you got that from”…
At the sight though of a beautifully crafted designer original we may gasp; “WOW where did you get that from?”
Well GET THIS we too are not mass produced replicas but one of a kind designer originals!
Heard a great illustration once (I think from my mum) about Ikea furniture vs. designer originals
We love Ikea for the inexpensive bits and pieces we can pick up. Going into each others homes we can spot out the Ikea products and think “I know where you got that from”…
At the sight though of a beautifully crafted designer original we may gasp; “WOW where did you get that from?”
Well GET THIS we too are not mass produced replicas but one of a kind designer originals!
Labels: best me
THE BEST ME ...SAYS SORRY!
When I was in my late teens I got so fired up with one of my brothers that I threw a hot potato at him
Anyway I felt so bad for my fit throwing potato incidence that I went out and bought Sam a new shirt to say sorry…He said I could throw a potato at him anytime!
For the first time this year (WOW we’re getting better!) BP and I exchanged a few OVER- heated words last week. Not wanting to let the sun go down on my anger, but unsure if I could get a sincere sorry out face to face, I left an apology note by the jug ( knew he’d find it there!)
He did...later apologising himself.
Yesterday morning getting ready for school I was a total grumpapotamus;overly frustrated at the kids and mess at hand…AND they all knew it!
I regained my composure after dropping them at school (Maybe that was the key!) but almost felt compelled to go get them out of their classrooms to say “I’m sorry”
I waited! After school walking them around to a cafe instead for an ‘I’m sorry’ gelato.
Anyway I felt so bad for my fit throwing potato incidence that I went out and bought Sam a new shirt to say sorry…He said I could throw a potato at him anytime!
For the first time this year (WOW we’re getting better!) BP and I exchanged a few OVER- heated words last week. Not wanting to let the sun go down on my anger, but unsure if I could get a sincere sorry out face to face, I left an apology note by the jug ( knew he’d find it there!)
He did...later apologising himself.
Yesterday morning getting ready for school I was a total grumpapotamus;overly frustrated at the kids and mess at hand…AND they all knew it!
I regained my composure after dropping them at school (Maybe that was the key!) but almost felt compelled to go get them out of their classrooms to say “I’m sorry”
I waited! After school walking them around to a cafe instead for an ‘I’m sorry’ gelato.
Labels: best me
YOU NEVER KNOW TILL YOU HAVE A GO
Yesterday BP and I cheered our kids (And any other’s we knew) on at the school cross-country…
Miss E telling us after “I nearly stopped breathing…
BP replying ‘That’s called being puffed Honey”
J saying it hurt inside my kidney…
BP again; “And that sounds like the stitch”
Its amazing Miss E actually got to the starting line in good spirits… much coaxing and encouragement required!
For a month now she has been plotting ways to avoid the race…the day before the dramatics’ beginning with the sudden onset of a mystery illness!
Thank-fully however we managed to somehow wave her off to school, rearing to run no matter what…AND she did well coming in middle of the pack...elated at making the distance
Got me thinking on the way home that Miss E would never have known what she was capable of and the joy of finishing if she had not had a go.
...And as adults too!!!!!!!!!! we STILL need to keep having a go!
We might just find theres more in us than we realised!
..At church on Sunday the guy quoted: (Don't know where from?)
"Many die at 23... and are buried at 70"
and titled his message 'Don't die wondering'...
Asking 'What if I...?'
Have a shot!
Miss E telling us after “I nearly stopped breathing…
BP replying ‘That’s called being puffed Honey”
J saying it hurt inside my kidney…
BP again; “And that sounds like the stitch”
Its amazing Miss E actually got to the starting line in good spirits… much coaxing and encouragement required!
For a month now she has been plotting ways to avoid the race…the day before the dramatics’ beginning with the sudden onset of a mystery illness!
Thank-fully however we managed to somehow wave her off to school, rearing to run no matter what…AND she did well coming in middle of the pack...elated at making the distance
Got me thinking on the way home that Miss E would never have known what she was capable of and the joy of finishing if she had not had a go.
...And as adults too!!!!!!!!!! we STILL need to keep having a go!
We might just find theres more in us than we realised!
..At church on Sunday the guy quoted: (Don't know where from?)
"Many die at 23... and are buried at 70"
and titled his message 'Don't die wondering'...
Asking 'What if I...?'
Have a shot!
Labels: best me
SWITCH OFF TO TURN ON!
March 22nd 2006
Sent in by a reader:
“Tube got you down??
You might tune into a brighter mood if you turn off the tube for a bit.
Watching too much television was associated with higher rates of depression in women in a recent study…….spending less time engaging in sedentary behaviors such as TV viewing and more time engaging in physical activity is a great prescription for boosting your mood.”
Remembering we’ve got to give energy to get it...
From experience when feeling sluggish a healthy dose of getting this ole body up and going is the best medicine.
As the article says lets ‘turn off the Tube'…there’s so much more to do!
When we first shifted to Oz and our TV was yet to arrive it was GREAT; we read more, played with the kids, talked, walked and dreamed and schemed all that much MORE!
How sad is it when TV intrudes on real living; relationships, fun and creativity …
Live louder
Sent in by a reader:
“Tube got you down??
You might tune into a brighter mood if you turn off the tube for a bit.
Watching too much television was associated with higher rates of depression in women in a recent study…….spending less time engaging in sedentary behaviors such as TV viewing and more time engaging in physical activity is a great prescription for boosting your mood.”
Remembering we’ve got to give energy to get it...
From experience when feeling sluggish a healthy dose of getting this ole body up and going is the best medicine.
As the article says lets ‘turn off the Tube'…there’s so much more to do!
When we first shifted to Oz and our TV was yet to arrive it was GREAT; we read more, played with the kids, talked, walked and dreamed and schemed all that much MORE!
How sad is it when TV intrudes on real living; relationships, fun and creativity …
Live louder
Labels: best me
TODAY MATTERS
February 23rd 2006
Sent in by my mum from "The word for TODAY":
“Take a moment and ask yourself, ‘Is this how I live?’ If not, make some changes!
Just for today, I will enjoy each moment to the fullest and try not to tackle my whole life’s problems at once.
Just for today, I will try to improve my mind by learning more than I know…
Just for today, I will be agreeable, try to look my best and make sure my words are ‘seasoned with grace.’
Just for today, I will not find fault or try to change or improve anyone – except myself.
Just for today, I will have a plan and a goal. I might not follow them exactly but I will have them nonetheless. By doing that I will save myself from two enemies – hurry and indecision!
Just for today, I will develop my character. I will do someone a good turn and keep it secret; if anyone finds out it will not count.
Just for today, I will do something I don’t naturally want to do, thereby train my spirit to rule my flesh and my will to rule my emotions.
Just for today, I will not be afraid to love or to risk; I will take steps of faith that stretch me beyond my present comfort level, try to enjoy all God’s blessings, and believe that every seed I sow… will be multiplied back to me many times over.
This is how I will live – just for today!!”
Sent in by my mum from "The word for TODAY":
“Take a moment and ask yourself, ‘Is this how I live?’ If not, make some changes!
Just for today, I will enjoy each moment to the fullest and try not to tackle my whole life’s problems at once.
Just for today, I will try to improve my mind by learning more than I know…
Just for today, I will be agreeable, try to look my best and make sure my words are ‘seasoned with grace.’
Just for today, I will not find fault or try to change or improve anyone – except myself.
Just for today, I will have a plan and a goal. I might not follow them exactly but I will have them nonetheless. By doing that I will save myself from two enemies – hurry and indecision!
Just for today, I will develop my character. I will do someone a good turn and keep it secret; if anyone finds out it will not count.
Just for today, I will do something I don’t naturally want to do, thereby train my spirit to rule my flesh and my will to rule my emotions.
Just for today, I will not be afraid to love or to risk; I will take steps of faith that stretch me beyond my present comfort level, try to enjoy all God’s blessings, and believe that every seed I sow… will be multiplied back to me many times over.
This is how I will live – just for today!!”
Labels: best me
FRIGHT IN THE MIRROR
After living in a pretty much mirror-less house, our new place has these huge mirrors on the wardrobe doors; oh what a shock!!!!...I’m bending down picking up the toys in the boy’s bedroom when I catch a glimpse of myself in the mirror… and to my horror the belly that smiles (See “My tummy smiles) now runneth over!
Now I know being ‘the best me’ is NOT all external and to NOT get depressed about it rah,rah,rah but I just happen to feel a whole lot better when I’m not so heavy. Thighs that rub together when I walk are not a good thing and getting dressed in the morning a mission when my clothes are too tight and clinging in all the wrong places.
I need some simple action steps NOW
Step 1: suck it in! The fright in the mirror inspired me immediately and every time since to suck it in… and although NOWHERE near flat and toned,my stomach muscles DO seem to be holding it all in slightly better?!
Step 2: Off the scales…stepping on them all the time is getting me no where and is depressing-“I am not what I weigh!” Focus on health not weight...scale reading limited to once a fortnight ONLY (BP wouldn’t let me throw them away)
Step 3: “Eat less and exercise more”; only 5 words but the hardest!
Move it:We live walking distance from school now which is great in-built exercise,… today however (Confession) it was so hot I buckled myself into the car and was backing out the drive WHEN I saw ‘fit school mum” (Hi Katrina!) at the edge of my driveway pushing 2 babies and tutting; “You lazy beep” … out of the car I hopped and sweated it out!
As for eat less??????! I'll try the other things first!
Now I know being ‘the best me’ is NOT all external and to NOT get depressed about it rah,rah,rah but I just happen to feel a whole lot better when I’m not so heavy. Thighs that rub together when I walk are not a good thing and getting dressed in the morning a mission when my clothes are too tight and clinging in all the wrong places.
I need some simple action steps NOW
Step 1: suck it in! The fright in the mirror inspired me immediately and every time since to suck it in… and although NOWHERE near flat and toned,my stomach muscles DO seem to be holding it all in slightly better?!
Step 2: Off the scales…stepping on them all the time is getting me no where and is depressing-“I am not what I weigh!” Focus on health not weight...scale reading limited to once a fortnight ONLY (BP wouldn’t let me throw them away)
Step 3: “Eat less and exercise more”; only 5 words but the hardest!
Move it:We live walking distance from school now which is great in-built exercise,… today however (Confession) it was so hot I buckled myself into the car and was backing out the drive WHEN I saw ‘fit school mum” (Hi Katrina!) at the edge of my driveway pushing 2 babies and tutting; “You lazy beep” … out of the car I hopped and sweated it out!
As for eat less??????! I'll try the other things first!
Labels: best me
PUMPED ON EXERCISE
August 2005
We’ve read the articles…
exercise reduces stress and your chances of becoming depressed, helps you sleep better, gives you more energy, lowers blood pressure, strengthens your heart, bones and muscles, makes you feel better about yourself …etc, etc!
On the VERY first day I decided to get more active and got moving 3 weeks ago I honestly felt untold better. I’m definitely NO scientist but since then I’ve read that exercise stimulates the production of the natural painkillers in the body called endorphins (Chemicals produced in the brain) which is why we feel so good afterwards! An increase in the body’s endorphin levels is said to reduce anxiety, and have anti-depressive effects.
You’ve seen the gym ads about exercise: “You will look and feel better” I love it, instant results: you can feel better TODAY!!!… It’s as simple as putting on your runners and going for a walk! Today I couldn’t get out for a walk so put on a kids music DVD and danced around in the lounge with my little boy… fun!
We’ve read the articles…
exercise reduces stress and your chances of becoming depressed, helps you sleep better, gives you more energy, lowers blood pressure, strengthens your heart, bones and muscles, makes you feel better about yourself …etc, etc!
On the VERY first day I decided to get more active and got moving 3 weeks ago I honestly felt untold better. I’m definitely NO scientist but since then I’ve read that exercise stimulates the production of the natural painkillers in the body called endorphins (Chemicals produced in the brain) which is why we feel so good afterwards! An increase in the body’s endorphin levels is said to reduce anxiety, and have anti-depressive effects.
You’ve seen the gym ads about exercise: “You will look and feel better” I love it, instant results: you can feel better TODAY!!!… It’s as simple as putting on your runners and going for a walk! Today I couldn’t get out for a walk so put on a kids music DVD and danced around in the lounge with my little boy… fun!
Labels: best me
MY TUMMY SMILES:
October 2005
Funny moment: I’m leaning over getting dressed when my 3 year old walks in my room and says: “Mummy what’s that? (Pointing at my bare belly) “Your tummy has a smile!” What a nice way of looking at it!!!!....
Speaking of tummies:
-A nursing friend found a putridly rotten sandwich in the tummy fold of an extremely overweight patient who said she’d been quizzing herself as to what smell was!
- Another friend refers to the many stretch marks decorating her stomach as “Love tattoos”
I love too the picture of the wrinkled Granny pointing out the lines on her creased face to her granddaughter explaining that each has a wonderful story to tell! As a baby, Ella loved singing along to the ad “Always look on the bright side of life!”
Come on, whistle to that tune TODAY!
Funny moment: I’m leaning over getting dressed when my 3 year old walks in my room and says: “Mummy what’s that? (Pointing at my bare belly) “Your tummy has a smile!” What a nice way of looking at it!!!!....
Speaking of tummies:
-A nursing friend found a putridly rotten sandwich in the tummy fold of an extremely overweight patient who said she’d been quizzing herself as to what smell was!
- Another friend refers to the many stretch marks decorating her stomach as “Love tattoos”
I love too the picture of the wrinkled Granny pointing out the lines on her creased face to her granddaughter explaining that each has a wonderful story to tell! As a baby, Ella loved singing along to the ad “Always look on the bright side of life!”
Come on, whistle to that tune TODAY!
Labels: best me
MAKING WRONGS RIGHT:
September 2005
Maybe I’ve just got my finger in too many pies??? But of late, I’ve forgotten: …A morning-tea at my 6 year olds friends’ place, a 4 year olds birthday party, and an engagement afternoon tea for the preschool teacher I said I’d be at.... too shocking for words!
One week slacking off, diligently transferring dates to the calendar and writing a weekly “To do list was all it took! It’s not only my engagements my brain now needs to compute but also those of 4 other lil people… and I have enough trouble keeping up with myself! But to be “The best me” and not be plagued with the guilt of letting others down I needed to make my wrongs right!
Not allowing myself to procrastinate, I made calls, bought gifts, wrote cards and rectified my mistakes. Phew! My conscience is clear and my “To do” list back in action!
Maybe I’ve just got my finger in too many pies??? But of late, I’ve forgotten: …A morning-tea at my 6 year olds friends’ place, a 4 year olds birthday party, and an engagement afternoon tea for the preschool teacher I said I’d be at.... too shocking for words!
One week slacking off, diligently transferring dates to the calendar and writing a weekly “To do list was all it took! It’s not only my engagements my brain now needs to compute but also those of 4 other lil people… and I have enough trouble keeping up with myself! But to be “The best me” and not be plagued with the guilt of letting others down I needed to make my wrongs right!
Not allowing myself to procrastinate, I made calls, bought gifts, wrote cards and rectified my mistakes. Phew! My conscience is clear and my “To do” list back in action!
Labels: best me
REMEMBERING ME
September 2005
Read in the latest edition of Madison an article on Kate Hudson; movie-star, wife, mum who is quoted saying: “Mothers become so immersed in their children’s lives that they forget about themselves, they forget about their husbands. It happens all the time”… so now how about YOU?!
My friends laugh at me: while at the shops recently I caught a glimpse of myself in a mirror and realized I had total bed-hair, fully sticking up like a rooster! (I currently have a short-ish hair style) I did the grossest thing and quickly licked my fingers and tried to flatten it, before giving my son a rally car ride in his pram to the nearest restrooms. I’d been so focused on getting the kids out the door that I’d completely bypassed the mirror myself!
As a women and mum a considerable percentage of our lives is giving out, which we love to do, but can become draining if we’re not continually replenishing our stores. TODAY try to indulge in something you find enjoyable that has nothing to do with work, kids or housework…. buts just for you!
…some things I’ve done lately that have nothing to do with kids, work or cleaning!!
*Long baths with a great book
*An 8 week painting course one night a week
*Strolls along the beach
*Hinted for a facial for my birthday present recently
*Snuck off to the movies once the kids were in bed and the hubby home
*Early morning walks
*A second Honey moon!
*Scuba diving the” Great Barrier reef”
*Dinners out with my husband and/or friends
*Set up an easel and paints on the kitchen bench
*Put on music I love
Your turn now…do something YOU love!
Read in the latest edition of Madison an article on Kate Hudson; movie-star, wife, mum who is quoted saying: “Mothers become so immersed in their children’s lives that they forget about themselves, they forget about their husbands. It happens all the time”… so now how about YOU?!
My friends laugh at me: while at the shops recently I caught a glimpse of myself in a mirror and realized I had total bed-hair, fully sticking up like a rooster! (I currently have a short-ish hair style) I did the grossest thing and quickly licked my fingers and tried to flatten it, before giving my son a rally car ride in his pram to the nearest restrooms. I’d been so focused on getting the kids out the door that I’d completely bypassed the mirror myself!
As a women and mum a considerable percentage of our lives is giving out, which we love to do, but can become draining if we’re not continually replenishing our stores. TODAY try to indulge in something you find enjoyable that has nothing to do with work, kids or housework…. buts just for you!
…some things I’ve done lately that have nothing to do with kids, work or cleaning!!
*Long baths with a great book
*An 8 week painting course one night a week
*Strolls along the beach
*Hinted for a facial for my birthday present recently
*Snuck off to the movies once the kids were in bed and the hubby home
*Early morning walks
*A second Honey moon!
*Scuba diving the” Great Barrier reef”
*Dinners out with my husband and/or friends
*Set up an easel and paints on the kitchen bench
*Put on music I love
Your turn now…do something YOU love!
Labels: best me
GIVE IT TO GET IT
August 2005
“The energy you give out is the energy you get back”
This has proved so true for me recently! In July I went to New Zealand by myself, no kids in tow for: 5 days-wow! I didn’t realize how tired I was though until I actually stopped… I had 2 sleeps in the plane on my way over, an afternoon sleep later in the day, and that night I went to the movies with my sister in law and fell asleep half way through it! I couldn’t believe it…I never fall asleep in movies!
Since then I’ve struggled with this continual tired feeling…waking every morning, wanting to go straight back to sl
“The energy you give out is the energy you get back”
This has proved so true for me recently! In July I went to New Zealand by myself, no kids in tow for: 5 days-wow! I didn’t realize how tired I was though until I actually stopped… I had 2 sleeps in the plane on my way over, an afternoon sleep later in the day, and that night I went to the movies with my sister in law and fell asleep half way through it! I couldn’t believe it…I never fall asleep in movies!
Since then I’ve struggled with this continual tired feeling…waking every morning, wanting to go straight back to sl