Saturday Smiles Trece

Friends, Family, Relationships

The Lord again blesses me each day and waking moment with the opportunity to rekindle an old friendship, spend time with family, experience the building of new relationships, or maintaining current relationships.

Twelve years ago, I graduated from college and last Saturday, I attended Homecoming activities for the 13^th consecutive year since graduation. Why do I attend year after year even though the people I know in attendance often is minimal? Because you never know who might decide to come in that year. This year was again no exception. I reconnected with some great folks and had wonderful conversations with classmates, professors, and new staff members. One connection with a development officer led to a lunch meeting on Thursday and what I foresee to be the starts of a great relationship and potential opportunities to share my talents and passions with my alma mater. If anything, it continued to send me down this new path of discernment for my life.

After attending Homecoming festivities, I drove to my hometown to spend time my family and share in the joy of my cousin’s newest child being baptized into the Catholic Church. Children are such a blessing in our lives, not only did I share in the baptism but enjoyed watching several little one’s play and have fun. A great pleasure since I have not had the opportunity to visit my other friends and their little boys in a good while.

Additionally, I spent some time with my paternal grandparents, who are not in the best of condition. This is actually something that is very hard for me to do as I want to remember them in their good days. My grandfather’s alzheimer’s is pretty bad as he has little to know recollection of who I am. My grandmother on the other hand still has great long term memory but struggles with short term memory. He recently turned 90 and my grandmother turns 89 this coming week. They have lived some good years and may they have more to come.

The Lord is also working through the young professionals ministry started at my church. We continue to bring in new folks and those in attendance seem to really be enjoying the spiritual journey with Christ and developing new relationships with one another. May God continue to bless and guide this group as we grow and seek His guidance.

In the coming weeks, I look forward to additional conversations with people whom I have recently reconnected and sharing my journey and listening to theirs since we last gathered. And building upon and deepening new friendships and relationships gained over the past year with some fantastic individuals.

How has God touched your life this week and brought a smile to your face and heart? Don’t forget to check out Journal of a Nobody’s weekly Saturday Smiles as well.

Healthier Living: Take 23

Week 23 -- 201.6 pounds
Week 22 -- 200.4 pounds
Week 21 -- 201.8 pounds
Week 20 -- 202.8 pounds (Wed)
......
Week 1 -- 211.4 pounds

Saturday is the big test!!!
5k Hoosiers Outrun Cancer in Bloomington, IN
Goal to complete under 40 minutes. I believe it is very doable as long as I don't injury myself in the next few days.

Last Week's Workouts
Monday -- 3.39 mile Jog/Walk in 47 mins 24 secs
Tuesday -- .8 mile walk as the drizzle began to fall + 3.4 mile Jog/Walk in about 50 mins
Friday -- 1.5 mile brisk walk with co-workers
Saturday -- 2.14 miles of walking and 50 to 100 meter sprints

Saturday made for an interesting night for a run and nostalgia. I was home at my parents and really needed to run. We live on a dead end street attached to a very busy and somewhat narrow street, not safe for running. Therefore, I decided to see what I could do with the not quite 1/2 mile circle of a street. Since straight running was no working, I decided to try to do a little bit of a sprint workout instead. I jog/walked the first .8 of a mile then the rest did combination of 50 to 150 meter sprints and walking. When I was in high school, I did that a lot training for both cross-country and track and field. I would do a full 400 meter sprint and then walk back and the other 400 meters and do it again.

Today, I did that same run from last Monday in 44 mins so I definitely believe an under 40 5k on Saturday is possible. Stay tuned for next weeks report.

Thanks again for all your support!

Saturday Smiles Doce

How often do you stop to give thanks and appreciation to those around you? Or do you just stop to share a thought or a hello with an old friend/acquaintance?

Over the past week plus, not once, twice, but thrice, I received a very nice personal thanks from others making me smile and almost cry once. All the thanks came from me just being me and sharing of my time, talent, or treasure for the good of others. There was nothing special about any of it besides my passion for leadership, faith, and helping guide the youth and young adults of tomorrow. Or my access to football tickets but inability to attend so sharing with others who would enjoy.

Through sharing and knowing the impact on others lives as well as my own, I already had been smiling as you have heard in previous Saturday Smiles posts. This just reminds me to continue making sure that I share with others what they mean to me. Because though unexpected knowing and feeling care from others is a wonderful feeling no matter the reason.

May your life be blessed this week with a kind gesture or hello from a friend, acquaintance, or colleague. May you reach out and touch someone's life as these people touched mine.

Thanks for reading and hearing how God blessed me this week! Enjoy Journal of Nobody's Saturday Smiles!

Healthier Living: Take 22

Week 22 -- 200.4 pounds
Week 21 -- 201.8 pounds
Week 20 -- 202.8 pounds (Wed)
......
Week 1 -- 211.4 pounds

Though briefly last week, I did see the scale register below 200 lbs a couple days. This weekend, I had a little fun but no worries. Clothes are fitting better, and people are commenting on the fact that I am getting skinner. I still have a long way to go but motivation and determination are playing a huge role in success. I do fear that something is going to derail me, but then I keep trying to spin it positively.

I have decided that my mid-life rebellion is to accomplish running the Louisville Mini-Marathon for my 35th year of life. In coming up on my 35th birthday, it is definitely good motivation to keep going and to get in shape. I am not getting any younger and life definitely does not slow down for the weary.

Officially registered for step 1 towards the mini a 5K run in Bloomington, IN next weekend. The goal is to complete in under 40 minutes, which I believe to be very doable. Today, I was thinking maybe 35 minutes but will not push it.

Last week's workouts...
Wednesday  -- 1.76 mile jog before church
Thursday -- 1.6 mile brisk walk w/co-worker
Friday -- 1.6 mile brisk walk w/co-worker & 3.55 mile jog/walk in 51 mins 45 secs (less than 45 mins for 3.1 miles)
Saturday -- 6 mile hike in Jefferson Memorial Forest

Thanks for all your continued support! 7.5 months to go :-)

Saturday Smiles Once

Thursday night as I drove home from an organization meeting, I sat at a stop light with a van to my left and was also chatting to my father handsfree through the radio. I turned my head and got distracted as the person next to me appeared to recognize me. On second glance, I realized it was one of the youth from church and his mom. It brought a nice smile to my face to be recognized and acknowledged by one of the youth. I waved, he waved and assumingly explained to his mother who I was. I waved again as she glanced over as well. Then we were off down the street.

Now to the story of my weekend of smiles.....

Last weekend, God’s natural world surrounded me, the trees, the animals, the crisp air, the stars, the sun, and the people. What a fantastic way to spend a weekend in communion with nature and the church community.

The weekend provided families of my church and a neighboring church community the opportunity to get away and be with one another as a nuclear family and a church family. Though I ended up being the only single member family outside of two leaders, I never felt alone or without family. Many families adopted me into their activities and supported and encouraged me as I tried various activities. In the late evenings, all the young adults, including the leaders, hung out as our own family enjoying time together away from the youth.

I could not have asked for a better way to get to know the youth and their parents than spending a weekend out in nature praying and doing various activities together. I definitely left Sunday feeling welcomed into a new church family and having created new relationships with the parents and the youth.

Not only was it a great opportunity to build new relationships and extend the family, there were plenty of challenges and new experiences to be explored. Most of which made me smile though one was particularly frustrating, maybe next year.

Saturday Firsts
Participated in my first archery adventure with just a small bruise on the backside of my left elbow where the bow string caught my arm a couple times. Overall, my shot was not too bad once I figured it out, and I managed to hit the target.

The rock wall…..yes, this is the particularly frustrating activity, but for my first time, I am not going to be discouraged. In looking back, I see a lot of things that played havoc on this activity. I had recently done several miles of hiking and had my hiking boots on. My legs were turning to mush and even shaking underneath me. My feet are big enough that they really probably didn’t need big, heavy hiking boots to help them not stay on the climbing rocks. I did make it up the rope ladder to the wall and once had upwards movement but could not find the right handle and leg support to get any further. So after some frustrating moments, I came down not defeating the wall. There is always next year.

Sunday Firsts
One thing that I have wanted to do for many years is to go horseback riding though this was only around a small pin. Thanks to one of the mom’s sharing their tennis shoes, I did ride a horse not once but twice. The mom’s wanted to make sure there was a good picture of me riding, Bolt, and they were not happy with the first ones. Therefore, I road again. We did get into a trot on the back side of the pin for a bit. It was a lot of fun, and I definitely wouldn’t mind trying riding a horse again.

Other Weekend Smiles
Friends know that often you find me with a camera and that was definitely no different this weekend. I love capturing the random, unexpected pictures of people or the beauty of our surroundings. You catch so much feeling and personality. You see the light in their eyes, the exclamations in their smiles, and so much more. Then the opportunity to look back and remember the accomplishments, the fun, and the people you shared such an experience with. In looking back briefly at the pictures, some in particular definitely make me chuckle and laugh.

Casting the fishing line reminded me of my grandfather and going to his neighbor’s pond to fish or watching him scale the croppy for dinner. (Wishing my grandfather a very happy birthday yesterday!) Thanks to LB for reminding me how to cast my line. It was like riding a bicycle and came back pretty quickly.

Silly this may be…there was another family with the same last name as I though missing a letter. So when the leader did roll call of family’s last names, I just smiled when he hit their name knowing he was looking for them but actually feeling a part of a family though not actually mine. Though the first morning after sharing with the mom the commonality in our last names, she said something about when he called their name I too was included.

Prayer Activities
Saturday morning, we made family prayer jars to remind us to pray and to hold our prayers. Though my jar is not full of family prayers, the reminder of the jar to stop and pray for friendships, missionaries, leadership, family, love, happiness, joy, and to not fear “the Lord is my light and my salvation” Psalm 27:1 brings a smile to my face thinking of the wonderful time I had at Family Camp and all the great friends and family I have praying for me.

Sunday morning prayer, each family made two pieces of a quilt, what we were thankful for and what we are praying for. These quilt pieces are being put together to be hung in the youth space to remind us of what we are thankful for, what we are praying for, and the wonderful time we had together at family camp.

Who can argue with a weekend like this? What made you smile this week? How has God touched your life?

To read other Saturday Smiles, check out a Journal of Nobody's blog.

Healthier Living: Take 21

Week 21 -- 201.8 pounds
Week 20 -- 202.8 pounds (Wed)
......
Week 1 -- 211.4 pounds

The elusive breaking of 200 pounds is right around the corner. Thanks for all of your support and encouragement!

Thursday -- 1.5 mile walk with co-worker && a short run/walk maybe 1.25 miles. The GPS and the fitness app on my phone did not work.
Friday -- 1.5 to 2 miles run/walk with some hills around camp before a fun filled outdoorsy weekend
Saturday -- several miles of hiking/walking and other outdoor adventures
Sunday -- more walking and outdoor adventures

Though it was a slow start to the week, I finished off on a fairly good note. I am definitely loving the cooler weather that the Friday night storms brought in.

Look for more about the weekend in this Saturday's Saturday Smiles post!
 

Saturday Smiles Nueve

Wow what a week it has been! The Lord blesses us in so many ways day in and day out.

The Amazing Power of a Small Gesture
Thursday evening my phone rang and on the other end a very happy, thankful friend. The happiness and excitement in their voice all came from a small gesture of a postcard. In the mail that day, they received a postcard with some kind words of encouragement and a just thinking of you note from my trip to the National Shrine of Our Lady of Snows and the St. Louis area.

Through Mary's love and the love of the Lord, you never know how even a small gesture may change someones life. In this case, my friend called to thank me, but thanks is not what I was seeking. I just sought to share a little note and say hello, I am thinking about you, thanks for being my friend.

What other small gestures can we do to bring a smile to someones face or provide them hope? Again, I challenge you to step away from selfish temptations and touch the life of another.

Growth of the Young Professionals
Wednesday night turned out to be a successful night as well. Two individuals joined in for spiritual and social fellowship at my church. The study of the Sunday readings led to some great discussion though off tangent at times and afterwards, we all went to a neighboring pizza place for a pizza. I really enjoyed sitting back and listening to the other two talk. Both are mechanical engineers, but one is more experienced and a project manager while the other is fairly fresh out of college. The mentoring and sharing that happened Wednesday night was terrific. Everyone had a great time, and I definitely see the starts of some great friendships and group of young professionals at the church.

Please continue to pray for this group as we reach out to others. May their hearts be open to accepting God more readily into their lives and to learning more about the Catholic faith.


What has made you smile this week? For more Saturday Smiles check out the Journal of Nobody's blog.

Healthier Living: Take 20

Week 20 -- 202.8 pounds (Wed)
Week 19 -- 204.0 pounds
Week 18 -- 203.4 pounds
Week 17 -- 205.0 pounds
......
Week 1 -- 211.4 pounds

I apologize for the delay in this weeks health update but hopefully, it will be well worth the wait. I did not get my usual Monday morning weigh-in as I was out of town until late Tuesday night. I am somewhat amazed with Wednesday's weigh-in after the long weekend but happy.

Let's start with the activity for last week.
Tuesday & Wednesday -- 1.5 mile walk w/co-workers
Tuesday -- 1.82 mile run/walk in 28:19 mins
Wednesday -- 3.12 mile run/walk in 46:34 mins
Thursday -- 3.23 mile run/walk in 50:14 mins (didn't turn the watch off for as much of the stops to stretch)
Sunday -- 2.5 plus miles of walking around the National Shrine of Our Lady of Snows
Monday -- 3 plus miles of walking around downtown St. Louis and Busch Stadium

Just over 3 weeks left until the big test and first 5k in a very, very long time. It definitely is motivation to keep on trying and pushing. I really hope that the cooler weather coming in tomorrow is here to stay. This hot and humid weather has been a bear for sure.

Otherwise, some other interesting things have been happening in the last couple of days with my body, which is good and bad depending on how you look at it. It is definitely potentially a turning point back to being more regular, but we will really have to wait and see.

Thanks again for coming along on this journey towards healthier living! Next week may not be as exciting, but some other posts to come definitely should be.

Saturday Smiles Ocho

The smiles for this week come from seeing the happiness, joy, and appreciation in others from small to larger gestures made by me and others and from the reminder about the importance of reaching out and not being selfish in our own lives. The reminder was a very important one for me as I recently have contemplated whether one can be too kind and friendly.

For those who know me well, you know that I constantly reach out to others to offer a kind word, share some delicious food, provide a helping hand, or just an ear to listen. Reaching out to others brings happiness, joy, and meaning to my life. It is a struggle for me when people do not appreciate kindness from others because they are too self-centered or concerned with their own progress over the success of the entire organization, country, and world. But thank God for the wonderful individuals He has put into this world to teach our youth and others about the importance of service, caring for others, and making change in today's global community.

How have you touched someone's life this week and brought a smile to their life? What has made you smile this week?

Enjoy Journal of a Nobody's Saturday Smiles as well!

Healthier Living: Take 19

Week 19 -- 204.0 pounds
Week 18 -- 203.4 pounds
Week 17 -- 205.0 pounds
......
Week 1 -- 211.4 pounds

Not 1, Not 2, but 3 nights of about a mile jog plus a mile of walking accompanied with two days of 1/2 hour walks with my co-worker, Saturday apartment cleaning, and Sunday's autocross adventures, I believe it was a fairly productive week on the exercise front especially since the end of the week got a bit too warm again.

Though not scientific or based on tested facts, I do believe that the vitamin regimen is helping from just visible signs with this menstruation though a medicine induced menstruation period since it had been almost 4 months since the last one. Hopefully, this will be the last little kick start my body needs to become regular again.

In addition, I am trying to remember to start taking my waking temperatures and charting my cycles again. I have noticed my temperatures are starting higher than they were a couple years ago. I might be able to actually use the chart temps instead of changing them to lower temps. I will let you know how this goes.

Vitamin Update Plus
I decided to change things up a little bit and add some more dosages of things based on the suggestions. I tried to condense/minimize the number of pills but do not believe it was successful. I looked at B-Complex vitamins for example but their was not one that seemed to provide all that was needed. Here is the new regimen starting today:

Morning
Complete Prenatal (w/lots of vitamins & minerals)
B-1 500 mg
B-6 200 mg
B-12 500 mcg
Vitamin C 500 mg
Vitamin E 200 IU
Fish Oil: Omega-3 600 mg; EPA 324 mg; DHA 216 MG
   or Flax Oil: Omega-3 7700 mg; Omega-6 2240 mg; Omega-9 2520 mg
Metformin 500 mg
Spironolactone 100 mg

Evening
Complete Prenatal (w/lots of vitamins & minerals)
B-6 200 mg
B-12 1000 mg
Vitamin C 1000 IU
Vitamin D3 2000 IU
Magnesium Citrate 400 mg
Vanadyl Sulfate 20mg

Before Bed
Melatonin 6 mg

During the Day
Attempt to drink at least one if not 2 glasses of hot green tea.

Saturday Smiles Siete

What has made you smile this past week or touched your life in a remarkable way? Not one but three things make me smile this week and know that God has a purpose for my life. (Challenges/Patiences in Understanding God's Purpose...a possible future post)

Youth, Leadership, & Christ
Last Saturday, I spent my day (12 hours plus) at church with the youth leadership team. Though a tiring day, one could not have asked for a better experience and beginning to a new year of youth leadership. As I continue to hear feedback from my sessions and how the youth are using their True Colors, it makes me smile. Additionally, the opportunity to share my passion and love for leadership and Christ with youth and adults alike makes me smile.

Just today, I received an email that the youth are talking about the concepts and how it applies to them leading a group and interacting with others. I pray that we can maintain this momentum and continue to provide them opportunities to improve and use their skills throughout the coming year.

Casual Conversations & Unknown Impacts
Two Saturday's ago while visiting my friend and enjoying a walk with the twins, our discussion lead me to talk about the distractions of our lives and how we do not take the time out to remove ourselves from these distractions and recenter our lives. Then on Sunday night, I began to read her post on Catholic Sistas totally oblivious to the fact she was speaking about me as that friend. Then later that night, she shared with me that her blog post was picked up by Big Pulpit whose purpose is to "...deliver the very best in punditry on the Catholic Church." (from their website). Wow, who knew a little conversation would touch so many lives. I wish my writing was as prolific as hers to share more about this and related topics.

Young Professionals
Not sure if it has been mentioned here before or not, but a couple months back, I started a young professionals group at my church. The take-off has been extremely slow, but we are starting to pick-up momentum which is very exciting. If you have ever been part of a similar group, you know the impact it can have on your life and others. Though only two of us this past week, the enthusiasm of the other young lady and excitement to come back next week brings a smile to my face. Not only is preparing for the weekly spiritual fellowships touching my life, I pray that it touches her life and many others to come.

Remember no matter where you are or what you are doing, you are making an impact on someone's life. Think about how you can make that a positive impact for others and yourself. Wishing you all the best in the week ahead.

Please share your Saturday Smiles and read Journal of  Nobody's latest Saturday Smiles!

Healthier Living: Take 18

Week 18 -- 203.4 pounds
Week 17 -- 205.0 pounds
......
Week 1 -- 211.4 pounds

The thought of being back under 200 pounds is so in site. I would love to reach it by next week, but that will take some dedication. The feeling of clothes being loose again is great. I can tell the pounds are coming off ever how slowly.

The cooler weather is starting to help my motivation to get out again and enjoy the fresh, cool air. There is a 5K in Bloomington on September 29th that I am going to shoot for being in shape and running. It is a possibility, if I just set my mind to it and the weather stays cool.

Exercise for the past week included two 30 min walks at work and Sunday's autocross 2 plus miles of walking around and running back and forth for rides/instruction during the second heat.

Look forward to some exciting news next week!

Saturday Day Smiles Seis

Children and youth....Is there really a whole lot more to say about how they bring smiles to our lives?

It has been a week plus filled with children and youth having fun, laughing, and being their adorable selves. Yes, they are not always cute and charming, especially when you walk in the door and they start screaming.

Last weekend, I spent with friends and their twin 1-year plus boys. Who still like to scream and cry when I first walk in for the weekend, but this time thankfully they started warming up to me. On Saturday evening, P actually crawled over to me and allowed me to pick him up for dinner. They are adorable things that I have enjoyed watching grow and develop over the past year. Thanks to my friends for allowing me this joy and Saturday Smile!

Sunday evening, youth ministry kicked off the new school year and weekly high school drop-ins with a cookout and Super Sloppy Sunday games! The smiles on their faces, the fun they enjoyed, the fellowship that transpired made every moment priceless. Looking forward to digging into some spiritual and life discussions and having fun at future drop-ins and retreats this coming year.

Tuesday afternoon, I sat on my patio catching up on news feeds, emails, and working on retreat materials as the children in the complex played. Their innocence, carefree demeanor, and playfulness just brought a smile to my face.

What brought a smile to your face this week? Please share and also check out the Journal of Nobody's Saturday Smiles post.

Healthier Living: Take 17

Week 17 -- 205.0 pounds
Week 16 -- 206.4 pounds
Week 15 -- 207.6 pounds
Week 14 -- 206.2 pounds
......
Week 1 -- 211.4 pounds

Though a slow moving loss of weight, the pounds are coming off one by one. Soon hopefully, I can rejoice at being back under 200 pounds. To accomplish that, I will definitely need to get moving and not sitting all the time.

This past week was fairly successful with 4 1.5+ mile walks.
Tuesday and Wednesday, my coworker and I went for morning walks.
Saturday, I enjoyed a lovely walk with my friend and her adorable 1-year+ twin boys. She pushed the stroller.
Sunday was another day of auto racing and walking the course plus a lot of standing working the waiver gate.

Sunday's autocross ended with a victory in my class though barely. I have some new competition after some old competition left this week. I also have a new toy, a GoPro camera, to video tape my runs. Now I just need to learn how to read the video and improve my skills.

Hopefully, this cooler weather is here to stay, and I can get caught up and motivated to start walking/jogging again in the evenings.

Thanks for all the support and encouragement!

Saturday Smiles Cinco

In writing this post every Saturday, I have begun to appreciate more and more what God provides for me and where He is taking me in life. Over the past few weeks, I have started to regain a sense of peace about God's plan for my future. I still do not understand what that plan is, but I feel comfortable about where I am headed and that something significant is in the works.

In the meantime, what has really made me smile this week: the opportunity to spend time developing some leadership sessions for an upcoming youth leadership team retreat. It is a carryover from last week, where I met with the youth minister and we planned out the day long retreat. Then this week, I was able to spend two evenings putting together two sessions.

The first is to help the youth and the adult leadership team members learn a little bit about their personal leadership styles through colors. Showing Our True Colors: A Fun, Easy Guide for Understanding and Appreciating Yourself and Others by Mary Miscisin is the basis of the session. After completing a short form, you learn your dominate color(s) (Gold, Blue, Green, and Orange). With a review of each color, you really begin to understand the dynamics of the group and why some people are the life of the party and others work to keep you on track and focused.

Since this is working with a church youth group, I also looked at the incorporation of some bible verses. The focus of both sessions will be from 1 Corinthians 12. The True Colors session will look at how each of us are part of the body of Christ and help in our own unique ways.

The second session leads us into understanding who the team is and the development of our plans for the year. It is based on a session from the International Leadership Conference of 2010 called House of Leadership. To make it pertinent, we are going to build our Church of Leadership with the similar components of building one's personal House of Leadership. The session builds up from the foundation and first impression to the team's vision and yearly plan. Here I am pulling in the first portion of 1 Corinthians 12 speaking about the unity of gifts.

Working on these sessions has brought a huge smile and peace to my life. I pray that God will continue to provide me the wisdom and words to share with the youth and adult leaders this coming Saturday and months and years to come. I ask for his guidance in my life as I share and provide support for the youth of tomorrow.

Thanks for reading. How have you seen God's presence in your life this week? What has brought a smile to your face? If interested in more information on these sessions, please feel free to ask.

For another Saturday Smiles, check out the Journal of Nobody's weekly post, Saturday Smiles, no. 6.

What are we living for?

Why do we work and work and work even more? What is the purpose behind all of this work? What are we trying to achieve or not achieve? Are we truly satisfied and living a fulfilling life? What is a fulfilling life look like? Who are we trying to impress? Are our actions supporting the better good or just ourselves? Do others allow us to help the better good or are they only interested in their own? What is accomplishment and where does society's view of accomplishment really get us?

I could probably go on and on with questions. Where is the happiness, the love, the joy, the feeling of helping in all of this? To me today's society and ways of life are more frustrating than fulfilling. As I listened to the homily on Sunday and read my daily reflection, I again was reminded to focus on eternity and life with our Creator. A feeling of relief came over me as I realized that I am not crazy for wanting to live a simple life, to help others, and enjoy every moment that I have.

The priest talked about wants versus needs. We have key things that we need in life, but we do not have to have the top of the line or everything for that need. His example was that a member of the church needs a car to get to Mass, but one does not need a brand new fancy car with all the bells and whistles, just reliable transportation.

Living Faith: Daily Catholic Devotional for August 5th, 2012 had this question for reflection, "We work so much of each day to sustain our mortal life, but eventually it will end. Wouldn't it make sense to spend a bit more time today on the things of eternity?"

Yes, there are things that we must do in order to survive our mortal life but not all things are necessary. Just as there are needs and wants, there are musts and extras. After having worked several jobs that consumed my life and again stripped my joy, I vowed to not let work run my life. Though often it is apparent that I still care too much about my job and trying to help others and make their lives easier,  I continue to put my best foot forward and help others in anyway I can. Generosity is not always accepted or welcomed, but it is who I am and will never go away. Thanks to those who appreciate and accept me and my generosity for what it is.

I want to live life not have life run me. Today's society is so much about being ran by the extras and wants and losing focus on the true picture of eternity and fulfilling our needs.

The Lord is blessing me with a great opportunity to share my love for Him, helping others, and leadership. I pray that God will continue to bless me in my endeavors against the grain of society and that I can act and be a positive witness to all those lives I touch each and everyday. Sometimes it is a struggle to remain positive and upbeat when things keep shooting you down and causing frustrations.

May your life be full of fulfillment, joy, and happiness!

Healthier Living: Take 16

Week 16 -- 206.4 pounds
Week 15 -- 207.6 pounds
Week 14 -- 206.2 pounds
......
Week 1 -- 211.4 pounds

As the weather begins to cool and travel slows (maybe), I am trying to be a bit more active.

Monday & Tuesday, a co-worked and I took a 1/2 hour walk in the neighborhood. Then end of month closing happened and we got derailed for the rest of the week. Hopefully, we will pick it back up tomorrow. I definitely am going to need it after enjoying some more delicious homemade banana ice cream.

I burned several calories on Friday & Saturday as I cleaned and cooked.

Working on the motivation not to only lose weight by mid-September so I can fit in a nice formal dress, but also working up the courage to finally pursue my dream of running a mini-Marathon come April. I have until October 31st to make that decision so both my friend and I can register to run at a less cost than come November 1st.

Saturday Smiles Cuatro

A twist on my usual Saturday Smiles as I was thinking the other day that my writing is probably sub-par and over time my readers will run away because they obtain little from my writings. Reasons abound but that can be another post.

As I thought about writing a more in depth Saturday Smiles, multiple things have made me smile again this week, but we are going to share about the previous 2 hours of my Saturday. Those who know me know I love to cook, share, and entertain in a casual way. Earlier this afternoon, I shared a lovely afternoon lunch/dinner with 2 lovely couples and one little one. (Another Saturday Smiles) Par normal, there are plenty of leftovers hanging out in my kitchen that I cannot possibly eat all of nor should I eat all. The question was who to share all the yummy food with, whose day could I make better.

My evening turned out to be full of smiles for so many. My diagonal neighbors were out sitting at a table so I stopped by to say hello and see if they would enjoy some homemade banana ice cream, brownies, and/or zucchini cake. They said yes but we continued to talk and chat for about 2 hours. While sitting outside, the neighbor above me came home and stopped by to chat as well. I offered him too some homemade banana ice cream. He has a huge like for bananas often heading to the neighboring yogurt shop for some banana yogurt. (I learned after asking.) The smile and excitement on his face after mentioning that was priceless.

So we all returned to our respective apartments, I went and gathered goodies for my neighbors and then delivered. The smiles on their faces was worth every hour after cooking and cleaning. I just hope the food is as good as the expectations has it. The couple across the ways son was a bit jealous when he called to speak to them and heard all the great food that I had brought over.

I thank the Lord for great neighbors and the opportunity to share my bounty with them and so many others today.

How have you been blessed this past week? What has brought smiles to your face or how have you brought a smile to someone elses? Please share or post on your own site.

Here is a link to my friend, who got me started posting Saturday Smiles:  Journal of a Nobody, Saturday Smiles

Enjoy!

Healthier Living: Take 15

Week 15 -- 207.6 pounds
Week 14 -- 206.2 pounds
......
Week 1 -- 211.4 pounds

A rough week in many ways plus a bit of late night Wedding celebrations on Saturday night lead to a slight gain this week.

Saturday was spent cleaning the inside and outside of the car. Amazing how shiny the car is when it is not covered in months of dirt. Sunday & Monday, my arms definitely felt the car cleaning.

Sunday was another day out autocrossing and a couple miles of walking the course.

Exciting things to come this week.

Saturday Smiles, Tres

What has made you smile this week, made you think differently, inspired you, motivated you, .....?

Welcome to edition tres of Saturday Smiles....Thanks again to my friend, Journal of a Nobody, for challenging me and others to think about God's presence each week in our lives and how it makes us smile and more.

#1
The youth minister and a few of the youth spent 12 days in Guatemala serving God and others. The pictures and smiles on their faces mean so much. Also, my thoughts run wild on the experiences these young folks had and how it has changed their lives forever. I cannot wait to hear their stories and experiences. I pray for God's continued guidance and spirit in their lives as they transition back to the US society. More to come on serving and missions and the impact it has on so many.

#2
The opportunity to catch up with a long time friend on the phone and looking forward to additional time to spend with one another and enjoying what life has to offer.

#3
Receipt of a postcard from a great friend who took me under her wings in my many moves of recent. The beautiful picture and the heartfelt love she has shared with me is priceless.

#4
Though I need very little, my friend is purging her collection of African artifacts and I just could not help myself but snap up a few pieces. They will be a great addition to my collection of international artifacts plus the money goes towards a good cause for them. Restraint though hard was accomplished on an item or two.

#5
Stepping away from all of life to listen and watch the thunderstorm roll by and the rain come down. As I was, my upstairs neighbors son came out stuck his hand over the balcony. He returned into the apartment to tell his father that its raining but still 100 degrees outside. All so very true. It made me chuckle.


Please share you Saturday Smiles and Blessings...

Healthier Living: Take 14

Week 14 -- 206.2 pounds
Week 13 -- 208.4 pounds
Week 12 -- 208.0 pounds
Week 11 -- 207.4 pounds
Week 10 -- 208.4 pounds
......
Week 1 -- 211.4 pounds

Monday morning was an exciting day as I was down 2+ pounds from last week. Not sure that after today, I will still be down come Monday, but it is definitely progress.

The exercise regime still is on the lax. Saturday, I did a lot of house cleaning which does take work and sweat. Sunday was another day of racing and 3+ miles of walking around the course plus more.

There is new motivation as I am going to a Black Tie event come mid-September. I actually know what I would love to be able to wear, but I really doubt that will happen. The last time I wore that dress I was a good 70 pounds lighter. But maybe, it will motivate me to try a bit harder to lose some weight and get in shape. I will start again once I return from another bit of traveling this week and weekend.

Saturday Smiles

What has made you smile this week, Brought you closer to God, Made you step back and appreciate the wanders around you?

To follow up on my post from Wednesday, here is an actual Saturday posting of Saturday smiles. Enjoy, post your Saturday Smiles reflection, or link to your own Saturday Smiles blog post!

#1
The thought of the youth and others from my church over in Guatemala serving others and spreading God's love and care to so many. Looking forward to hearing about the journey and transitions that occurred in each and everyone of their lives. Praying for their safe return this weekend.

#2
The skyline Thursday night as I drove from Lexington to Louisville. The magnificence of nature is astounding. There was a large partial rainbow at Midway. The sun was setting to the west and just shown above all the way, scattered through the clouds, and chaos of the sky. The sideways lightning through the sky was just mesmerizing and beautiful at the same time. (Might try to post some pics.)

#3
Spending time with car club folks, even though few, and the protection received to not end up in any of the bad weather on Thursday night driving.

#4
The delight in the messages and posts of a couple who have been apart due to jobs being temporarily reunited. Their faith and love is inspiring to so many :-) May they have a joyful and relaxing time with one another.

Look forward to hearing about your weekly smiles.

Check out a Journal of a Nobody, Saturday Smiles no. 3.

Saturday Smiles Of Yesteryear

A few weeks ago a friend posted on her blog (Journal of a Nobody) about being more aware focused on how one feels close to God within a week. She then started a weekly blog post called Saturday Smiles and asked her followers to share their Saturday Smiles with others. Here is my Saturday Smiles of Yesteryear, since I have been thinking about it for 2.5 weeks. I will post from the previous 2 weeks saving this week hopefully for a post this coming Saturday.

Where have I seen and felt God the previous couple of weeks? How has He made me smile and brightened my day?

#1
After writing Listening to God's Plan, I contacted some of my closest friends and asked them specifically to help me on the future journey. God's love shined through them as they responded and touched my heart so deeply. One or two almost brought me to tears. The love my friends have for God is so amazing and their support of me and my life's journey is amazing.

#2
Friends make me smile though at times I get frustrated in their lack of response or feel that maybe I have pushed them away. But then an email arrives in my inbox and I seem to forget about the frustrations or worries of possibly driving them away. A smile fills my heart and I again know why I care.

#3
Spending a morning on the beach in the gulf. Though I really don't know what people see about spending a whole week at the beach, I will admit that I enjoyed spending Friday morning on the beach. We walked from our hotel room to the state park across the street. The walk, the laying on the beach briefly, watching the crab come out of his little hole in the sand, just laying in the water or trying to catch the wave made for an enjoyable relaxing morning. It was time for quietness and reflection on life, family, future, and more.

#4
Watching one of my youngest cousin's get married on the beach. Definitely a different experience but amazing to see his smile and witness a wonderful occasion though I missed the dolphins swimming by in the background. The bride's father provided a blessing to start the wedding off which was really sweet. (My memory is bad so this is not a great rendition but my best attempt.) He talked about how there is Christ and helping others, the couple, and then self. It was very nice.

#5
Experiencing things and conversations with family. Another cousin and I had more conversation Thursday and Friday than I believe we have had combined in the past 5 years and not because we have not seen one another. There seems to be very little conversation at family gatherings and it is not that we do not have things in common. We are only 4 months apart and both work in the same field, currently. But again it was nice to talk and share with him. And we get to do all of this again in a couple weeks.

Please share your Saturday Smiles here or like me post a comment and link to your own Saturday Smiles post. Thanks for making me smile!

Healthier Living: Take 12 & 13 Plus Vitamin Update

Week 13 -- 208.4 pounds
Week 12 -- 208.0 pounds
Week 11 -- 207.4 pounds
Week 10 -- 208.4 pounds
......
Week 1 -- 211.4 pounds

I apologize for the delay in any recent posts. I did not get last week's post done before leaving for a very brief vacation the end of the week and weekend.

As you see, things have not been moving in the downward direction but that is okay. The lack of exercise and not so hot eating habits have contributed.

Week 12 - Thursday evening was nice for a short walk to take the trash out and around a portion of the neighborhood. Sunday was another day of autocross and some course walking. It was also an extremely hot day that zapped you of all of your energy.

Week 13 - Friday spent about 4 hours in the gulf or on the beach. Saturday spend the day shopping at the outlet malls. Both being some nice exercise.

Vitamin Regimen Changes
Finally found some vanadium at the Vitamin Shoppe to go with the Magnesium and Chromium.
The multi-vitamin has a respective amount of Chromium already in it. The 250 morning Magnesium was moved to the evening to take with the 25 mg of vanadium and the other 250 Magnesium.

Also bought some B1 and added 250 mg to the morning regimen. Still patiently waiting to see how the vitamins overall effect my body. I really need to get back into the routine of taking my morning basal temps to see if I am actually ovulating or not. And to also see if there is any changes on a regular pattern as it has been since early April, since I cycled and that was medicine induced.

Anyone have suggestions on getting the necessary Flax Oil/Omega 3? I have liquid but some mornings, I just don't feel like stomaching it. It doesn't taste bad but just different enough. Flax capsules, you have to take a zillion to get what is in one tablespoon of liquid.

Healthier Living: Take 11

Week 11 -- 207.4 pounds
Week 10 -- 208.4 pounds
......
Week 1 -- 211.4 pounds

Wow, it is hard to believe that I started tracking this over 11 weeks ago and though I have lost some weight, I have not done great. The lack of exercise the past several weeks and the extra food is probably causing most of that.

A co-worker and I did walk two days last week before the scorching heat set in here in the midwest. That exercise constituted all the exercise for the week.

The extreme heat is definitely not going to help motivate me to get out anytime soon.

For many reasons, I will not be running a 5K on the 4th of July as initially hoping. Instead, I plan to go to the drive-in Tuesday night to watch 'The Amazing Spiderman' and 'Abraham Lincoln: Vampire Hunter'. I might try to figure out how to watch Madagascar instead for the second movie, but we will see what happens.

Listening to God’s Plan

Listening to God’s plan does not come easily for any part of our life, especially when we grow up having dreams and expectations for our future. How many times are we asked: what do you want to be when you grow up; where do you plan to be in 5 years, 10 years from now; when are you getting married;  when are you having kids; and the list does not stop there, but you hopefully get the picture.

Life brings with it challenges, joys, sufferings, and peace. When we listen to His word, we are able to face those challenges and sufferings with hope, faith, and positivity. We rejoice and celebrate the joys and peaceful feelings. The Lord has touched me in so many ways over the years when I truly stop and listen. He has shown me the direction and provided a peace in my heart and soul to know that whatever happened or is to happen comes from Him.

As mentioned in an earlier post His Way is Best, I have lost that connection and spiritual awareness that once was so strong in my life. I will not discuss reasons why lost but want to look forward at ways to regain that spiritual connection.

The key is stepping back and providing myself personal time to reflect on the word and God’s teachings. This reflection and time can be achieved in so many aspects of life. Here are a few that I have been engaging in recently:

• Reflecting and writing posts/journal entries 
• Involvement with church activities
• Attending Monday night Mass and praying the Rosary prior to Mass
• Assisting with the Youth Ministry program
• Starting a weekly Young Professionals group and reflecting on the upcoming Sunday readings
• Attending Sunday mass and trying to stay more focused on the Mass instead of letting the mind run wild
• Providing support for the College Ministry program
• Reading Christian based and other books
• Recently finished…When God Writes Your Love Story by Eric & Leslie Ludy
• Currently reading…Smart Women Know When to Say No by Kevin Leman
• Helping and supporting others
• Surrounding myself around strong Christians
• Improving my health as seen here through other posts
• Enjoying God’s nature and beauty
• Limiting time in front of the television

These things are definitely changing my outlook on life, my actions towards things, and my overall demeanor. Things are not easy that’s for sure but in trying to be positive and seeking a new spiritual grounding things are encouraging.

When God Writes Your Love Story by Eric & Leslie Ludy

A book that really makes me:

• think about my actions today and how they will impact my future;
• stop to reflect on the motivations behind my actions or reluctance/fear to be myself;
• seek to be more pure and honest with myself;

How do I stop, listen, and let God prepare my love story? How will I know what that love story is all about?

Is it a love story with Him providing support, guidance, and direction for the youth, young adults, and others in the communities that I belong and reach out too?

Is it a love story with Him and a strong Christian mate with or without children?

Is it a love story with everything combined together?

If I knew the answers to these questions, I would not be sitting here typing today and seeking the grace to be patient and listen to God’s calling. One chapter in the book talked about creating a team for success: people who know you, who can help you discern what is of God and what is not through prayer, questioning, and support; who provide accountability; and who bring a refreshing perspective on the ups and downs of the journey.

If you are willing to be part of that team for success, I welcome you to the team in whatever capacity you would like. For those just reading this blog and offering silent prayers and support, I think you. For those reading and sharing comments or thoughts, I think you. For those who are more involved in my life and sharing, I think you. Everybody makes a difference one way or another, and that is much appreciated.

Healthier Living: Take 10 Plus

Week 10 -- 208.4 pounds
Week 9 -- 207.4 pounds
Week 8 -- 207.8 pounds
......
Week 1 -- 211.4 pounds

Not a good weekend but hopefully, it is just a temporary upward fluctuation. I was down again Tuesday morning to 207.4. We will just have to see where all the homemade banana ice cream in my freezer goes over the next week.

Homemade Ice Cream
Over a month ago, I bought an old time motorized wooden ice cream freezer. Homemade ice cream is delicious but eating 4 quarts is a bit difficult for one person. Therefore this weekend while my aunt, cousin, and cousin's child was in plus another cousin coming over to visit, I decided to try it out. Though not the best homemade banana ice cream, it is pretty darn tasty and enjoyable. Thankfully, I have a few co-workers that deserve a little treat so I have and will share with them.

Physical Activity
The physical activity again was not on the positive this past week as the only true exercise was Sunday at the autocross event again. This week does not look promising with temperatures in the 100s the end of the week, but we will see.

Co-worker walking again...today, a co-worker and I went for a late morning walk, which was enjoyable. Hopefully, this partner and I can get into a fairly consistent routine minus the very hot days to come the end of this week.

Due to the lack of walking/jogging, I currently do not plan on running in the Buffalo Trace 5K on July 4th. Instead, I look forward to sleeping in and getting a day of rest.

Vitamins & Minerals
Three weeks into the new vitamins & minerals regimen and seeing/feeling some changes in my body. I don't seem to be as worn out and tired. The sleeping is still not great. There have been some other signs that my body may be reacting positively to the regimen. Nothing of concrete origin has surfaced yet, but I have to keep reminding myself it has only been 3 weeks.

Due to the number of vitamins, I broke down just over a week ago and purchased a daily am/pm pill container. It nicely separates the morning meds and vitamins from the evening ones. Except it actually was not large enough to put the prenatal vitamins in as well. Therefore, that bottle is sitting out along with the melatonin, since you take it 30 mins before bedtime.

Healthier Living: Take 9

Week 9 -- 207.4 pounds
Week 8 -- 207.8 pounds
Week 7 -- 210.6 pounds
Week 6 -- 208.2 pounds
......
Week 1 -- 211.4 pounds

Actually, I am amazed that I slightly lost/maintained this past week. The week proved to be rough and very inactive. Sunday was the only day of activity with another Sunday of racing and walking over 3 miles over the course of the day.

Hopefully, I can get out towards the end of this week. Tonight has been a lazy night and the next couple of nights are busy.

Vitamins & Minerals: Part II

Wednesday, June 6th - The start of a new vitamin regimen. Thanks for those who shared on my last post regarding vitamins & minerals.

Prenatal Vitamin for base went with Rainbow Light Complete Prenatal System. No specific reason. It seemed fairly balanced.

Then I am supplementing it with the following:
Morning
500 mg of B12
1 Tbsp of Flax Oil
250 mg of Magnesium
1000 IU D3
250 mg of Vitamin C
200 IU of Vitamin E
200 mg of B6

Evening
250 mg of Magnesium
1000 IU D3
250 mg of Vitamin C

Before Bed -- 3 mg of Melatonin to help me sleep.  

We will see how things progress.

Healthier Living: Take 8

Week 8 -- 207.8 pounds
Week 7 -- 210.6 pounds
Week 6 -- 208.2 pounds
......
Week 1 -- 211.4 pounds

Successfully down this week and looking forward to maintaining this lower weight.

The past week was rather stressful, which was good and bad. Activity type changed this week. On Tuesday and Friday, I went jogging/walking for 2.5 miles finishing both days just under 39 minutes.

The weekend was full of autocrossing. Saturday was a driving school and Sunday was an actual event. I recorded about 2 miles of walking Saturday morning and 2.5 miles of walking Sunday morning. There was definitely more time up on my feet and walking around in addition to the recorded times.

The biggest thing was on Friday when I went for a jog my muscles were extremely tight. Then I have proceeded to be sore and tight all weekend. Part of the issue is flipping my bed to the firm side, which does not work. Any suggestions on how to get stretched out and limber again?

I also started a new vitamin regimen this past week to be detailed in another post.

Healthier Living: Take 7

Week 7 -- 210.6 pounds
Week 6 -- 208.2 pounds
Week 5 -- 210.4 pounds (Tuesday)
......
Week 1 -- 211.4 pounds

Apparently this past weekend was not a good weekend because I was up though I was significantly down Wednesday and Thursday morning below 208.

Motivation and discipline are slowly coming together on the exercise front. The nice evening weather has also been a help.

Tuesday (Week Prior)
3.68 mile walk in 1:00:17 hours
16:00 min/mile pace and 217 calories burned

Wednesday (Week Prior)
3.47 mile walk in 1:00:03 hours
17:00 min/mile pace and 216 calories burned
Definitely was moving a bit slower after the Monday hike and the intense walking on Tuesday.

Saturday
Went to Taylorsville Lake and hiked about 2.5 to 3 miles. The first 2 miles was pretty muddy and also on combo hiking/horse trails. The last .5 miles is about the only non-horse trail and was rather enjoyable. I saw a deer as I came out from the first trail and into the latter trail. It ran off before I could see much of it though.

The app on my phone said I burned 0 calories and then refused to save properly so I am not sure how long the hike was either. It was good though not sure I would do a lot of hiking here but we will see. It was only one of many trails but as I said they are all horseback trails as well.

Sunday
Autocross day again so walked about 1.5 miles in the morning checking out the course and then again another .5 mile at lunch time to check the course out again, along with all the other days activities and movements. But apparently, I was not all that good for the weekend because was on the heavy side Monday morning.

So definitely had the motivation last week, this week has been a slightly different story for many reasons. I will report more on that next week and try not to be so tardy in my update. 

Vitamins & Minerals: Part I

Where do you start in trying for results? As mentioned previously, I have been reading two books: “Fertility, Cycles, and Nutrition” (FCN) by Marilyn M. Shannon and “The Fertility Diet”  (FD) by Jorge E. Chavarro and Walter C. Willett. Both books have good advice and sensible information regarding diet and nutrition. They are also acutely aware that one cannot do everything so they suggest finding what you can handle and starting there.

Therefore, my first focus is on vitamins and mineral supplements. Why…because I am almost out of my current daily vitamins and figure it is rather easy once you figure it out. It does not require continued thought and work like determining a diet and proper eating habits.

PCOS – Polycystic Ovary Syndrome has multiple related health issues encompassing various nutrients. FCN breaks down some of the key vitamins and minerals to extra supplement from the general recommendations for fertility in the beginning of the book.

First suggestion is starting with a multivitamin/multimineral prenatal as it has a larger quantity of many of the necessary vitamins and minerals. In my shopping Friday night, I took a look at what was at Target and Kroger but nothing appeared to have a good amount of many of the general recommendations. Granted when I reviewed the book and its suggested multivitamin/multiminerals, I realized it had quantities for 4 or more capsules.

I will not bore you with all the details but just the extra’s that it recommends for PCOS and other fertility.

B Vitamins especially Folic Acid

-          B-group vitamin: B1 (500 mg), B6 (500 mg), B12 (2000 mcg) or Folic Acid (348 mcg) in conjunction with Metformin

-          Reduce the amino acid homocysteine which is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease and insulin resistance.

-          Another study actually showed the administration of B vitamins (unknown dosage) had a more positive effect on pregnancy than metformin in PCOS women.

-          Side note: This brings me hopes of getting off metformin. I definitely am not going to currently increase dosage in hopes that I can counter the need for extra dosages with vitamins and weight loss.

Vitamin D

-          Another vitamin that correlates to insulin resistance and high body weight.

-          Interesting find is that this vitamin may currently be set at a very, very low daily value intake.

-          2,000 IU per day has now been accepted as safe and beneficial.

-          It is also found to possibly have an anti-cancer effect as well.

-          Of course the natural way to get Vitamin D is through sun exposure but that in itself brings about a whole list of concerns and depending on where you live and time of year may be harder to obtain.

-          Side note: Being light skinned as I am with melanoma running in the family, it is definitely something I need to watch.

-          Itchy Skin: Still not sure the cause but after spending several hours out in the sun no matter how much sunscreen, I seem to itching for the next 3 to 4 days. Sometimes, I feel like I am just going to scratch all the skin off my legs and arms it is so bad. I have tried various lotions, aloe, etc to no avail. I am going to try a different sunscreen next time to see if that helps.

Magnesium, Chromium, Vanadium

-          Help increase insulin sensitivity… “natural ‘hearing aids’”

-          Recommendation: Magnesium (1000 mg), Chromium (200-400 mcg), Vanadium (30 mg)

-          Helps with overweight insulin resistance

-          ****Chromium picolinate effectiveness for those with diabetes is so strong that you might have to readjust diabetic medicines.

Essential Fatty Acids especially Omega-3 fatty acids

-          Improves sensitivity to insulin (a large contributor to PCOS individuals gaining weight)

-          Alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3 essential fatty acid)

-          Best source is Flax Oil (5 to 10 1 g capsules a day or 1-2 teaspoons per day (5-10 grams))

-          Cod liver oil (1-2 teaspoons daily) – contains omega-3 fatty acids, Vitamin A, and Vitamin D may also be helpful.

-          ** Vitamin E also should be supplemented if you supplement the essential fatty acids. It prevents oxygen damage to the molecules.

-          For more info, Dr Atkins’ New Diet Revolution, Chapter 23 has more info. (Going to see about checking it out of the local library this week.)

Those are the elements from the PCOS chapter of FCN and a lot to digest. Look for a follow-up discussion on broader minerals and vitamins from the FD and also more info from Dr Atkins books once reviewed.

Does anyone have a prenatal vitamin/mineral supplement that they suggest?

Do you know of a good place to go find vitamin/mineral supplements?

Do you have any experience, knowledge, or suggestions of your own?

Healthier Living: Take 6

Week 6 -- 208.2 pounds
Week 5 -- 210.4 pounds (Tuesday)
......
Week 1 -- 211.4 pounds

Motivation is slowly starting to come about even during this extremely hot weather.

Today, my friend, SH, and I went for a very lovely though warm hike at Jefferson Memorial Forest. We hiked about 6 miles in 3 hours, which is about normal for my hiking adventures. According the MapMyFitness app, we burned 1503 calories. It is short on mileage as the GPS did not register until we had probably gone about a quarter of a mile.

It was quite the adventurous hike. We crossed paths with two snakes of unknown identity. One appears to be a black racer while the other one still alludes us.

Though that was the only technical physical activity minus the walk on Tuesday night, I was fairly active grocery shopping on Friday night and organizing my spare bedroom/cleaning the apartment on Sunday. Probably the reason for the loss of a couple pounds this week. We will see if I can keep those pounds off and start trimming the waistline.

Now that I have been out for a good hike, I am more motivated to try to get out in the evening at least once a week and go for a nice hike. Maybe, I will shoot for Wednesday night this week and see how that goes. I just hope it cools off because at 7 pm tonight it was still a bit toasty and sunny for a hike. Thankfully daylight is lasting longer and longer so that helps finding some more cool air.