Hello there,
It's August here, and the humidity is back. Summertime has never been one of my favorite seasons - I much prefer the cool, crispness of fall to the heat and humidity of summer. However, in this season of life - preparing for our little one to arrive, the summer hasn't been so bad. It's been full of little getaways, showers with lots of fun things for our sweet baby girl, and laughter!
In the Mulkey household these days, we're spending lots of time preparing for Little Miss's arrival. And we know that this single act of her being born will change our lives forever! On the weekends, we savor sleeping in together, the cuddles, slowly waking up with french press coffee, pancakes, and my husband's famous egg scramble. These type of Saturdays will drift away only to return...well, maybe never, but there's a slight chance when our kids are teens, we might be able to have these type of Saturdays again.
We're in organizing overload mode. For once in my life, I'm good with getting rid of stuff - it's to make room for her sweet things, and I want a simpler house to bring her into. We're awaiting her dresser's arrival, and my husband needs to re-jig our closet so it'll slide in there, but soon enough, her nursery will be complete! I eagerly await that day.
In this last stage of pregnancy, I'm feeling all the feels! I am ever so excited to welcome our sweet little girl into the world, into our sweet family, and into the Lord's family, too! However, there's another mix of emotions. Will I be a good Mom? Will I know how to give her what she needs? To always love her and shower her with goodness, prayers, and hugs? Will my efforts be enough? How will her arrival shift our marriage? How will it shift my walk with Jesus? I have to say, in these months leading up to her birth, I have come to a deeper understanding of my King Jesus as my loving, caring Father. It's a sweet thing to encounter the Lord as a parent. He LOVES us soo incredibly much. And I know there's nothing I could ever do to change the height and depth of His great love for me. This truth is so comforting, dear friends!
I am sure that in this new season of motherhood, life will look a lot different. But I am also sure that there will be a sweetness to it. It'll be pretty amazing to see her first smile, to feel her cuddles, and learn all her adorable little cry's. Along with all those sweet little miracles will be exhaustion, tears, and many more things. For those of you out there who are already Mom's and Dad's, what little tid bits of wisdom do you have to share? Please leave a comment and enlighten me. I'm sure I'll be ever so eager to read these words once she arrives.
And I am praying for a good labor and delivery. These things always have surprises built into them, but I'm hoping and praying for a smooth process - as much as possible. And pleading with the Lord not to have a C-section. That's the one thing I desperately don't want, but ultimately we want baby and I to be okay.
Ah, yes - great changes are ahead, and great joys! And I for one am ready to embrace this new season that's right around the corner. Before we know it, Little Miss will be here in our arms. And our lives will never be the same. Yes, I do believe I am "ready" for this enormous change in our lives, and can't wait to be the best mother I possibly can, with the Lord's help, to this sweet little babe. My next post will be "after baby" - so until then - enjoy the dog days of summer, my friends! And take some time for you - to take a breath, and bask in the sunshine.
Ciao!
Friday, August 4, 2017
Tuesday, April 18, 2017
New adventures
Happy Spring, dear friends!
It's been over a year since I've written on here. 2016 was a rough year, what can I say? There are numerous reasons, none of which I will get into here. If you really want to know, ask me to coffee. :)
We've had many "new" things in the past year or so. For one, we are now in a house! Horray. It's a lovely ranch style home with four bedrooms, and two and a half baths. We're making it home day by day. My husband loves the big yard, and we started a raised bed garden last summer, which was fun. I think we'll continue it this year.
I started a new job working for a non-profit. I don't miss the corporate world, but I do miss the better pay. Ah - such is life. I'm also an independent consultant for Arbonne. Last year, my husband & I did their 30 days to healthy living program, and we both lost an immense amount of weight. I lost over 50 pounds, and my husband did another round recently, and is down 65 pounds!! Amazing. :) If you're interested in learning more - let me know! I'm passionate about helping people live healthier and happier lives.
What else? We went to Italy on a cruise, which was an adventure! For my first trip to Europe, I'd say not too shabby. We definitely want to go back and explore more. This was just a taste. So far, Venice was my favorite city. I don't know if it will be after more trips to Italy, but for now it definitely is. My husband started a new job working as a Labor Relations Attorney for an Association downtown. He loves it and the job has excellent benefits.
In the fall, we welcomed a "fellow" to live with us. It has been a good experience, but stretching. He lives in our basement and helps out a few days a week at our church with the International program, the Youth, and Sunday school for little ones. He also works a part time job downtown and attends some seminars. He's with us until the end of May.
And this next bit of news, I'm so pleased to share. After a while of trying, we are finally pregnant! :) I'm so thrilled - we both are! We are eager to welcome baby into our home at the end of September. We've enjoyed reading baby books, creating our baby registry, and we recently started painting baby's sweet nursery. It's such an exciting time, and it's been great to start many new adventures. I'm not sure what the Lord has in store for the rest of 2017, but so far it's been a pretty great year.
In the midst of it all, I think I have become a more patient person. More patient with myself, others, God, and my dreams. If you would've asked me if I would be where I am professionally five to seven years ago, I would've scoffed. I had much higher ambitions, but this is where I am for now. It is where the Lord has me in this season, and I am learning a lot. It is good to be in a slower pace. That pace will surely increase when baby comes. Our God is good, friends. He is ever near us in every season and phase of our lives, lovingly calling us unto Himself. I am so grateful for his mercy, patience, and loving-kindness. His promises are true.
Until next time...
-Tina Lou
It's been over a year since I've written on here. 2016 was a rough year, what can I say? There are numerous reasons, none of which I will get into here. If you really want to know, ask me to coffee. :)
We've had many "new" things in the past year or so. For one, we are now in a house! Horray. It's a lovely ranch style home with four bedrooms, and two and a half baths. We're making it home day by day. My husband loves the big yard, and we started a raised bed garden last summer, which was fun. I think we'll continue it this year.
I started a new job working for a non-profit. I don't miss the corporate world, but I do miss the better pay. Ah - such is life. I'm also an independent consultant for Arbonne. Last year, my husband & I did their 30 days to healthy living program, and we both lost an immense amount of weight. I lost over 50 pounds, and my husband did another round recently, and is down 65 pounds!! Amazing. :) If you're interested in learning more - let me know! I'm passionate about helping people live healthier and happier lives.
What else? We went to Italy on a cruise, which was an adventure! For my first trip to Europe, I'd say not too shabby. We definitely want to go back and explore more. This was just a taste. So far, Venice was my favorite city. I don't know if it will be after more trips to Italy, but for now it definitely is. My husband started a new job working as a Labor Relations Attorney for an Association downtown. He loves it and the job has excellent benefits.
In the fall, we welcomed a "fellow" to live with us. It has been a good experience, but stretching. He lives in our basement and helps out a few days a week at our church with the International program, the Youth, and Sunday school for little ones. He also works a part time job downtown and attends some seminars. He's with us until the end of May.
And this next bit of news, I'm so pleased to share. After a while of trying, we are finally pregnant! :) I'm so thrilled - we both are! We are eager to welcome baby into our home at the end of September. We've enjoyed reading baby books, creating our baby registry, and we recently started painting baby's sweet nursery. It's such an exciting time, and it's been great to start many new adventures. I'm not sure what the Lord has in store for the rest of 2017, but so far it's been a pretty great year.
In the midst of it all, I think I have become a more patient person. More patient with myself, others, God, and my dreams. If you would've asked me if I would be where I am professionally five to seven years ago, I would've scoffed. I had much higher ambitions, but this is where I am for now. It is where the Lord has me in this season, and I am learning a lot. It is good to be in a slower pace. That pace will surely increase when baby comes. Our God is good, friends. He is ever near us in every season and phase of our lives, lovingly calling us unto Himself. I am so grateful for his mercy, patience, and loving-kindness. His promises are true.
Until next time...
-Tina Lou
Tuesday, December 29, 2015
End of the year musings...
Ah, it's December and the end of the month at that. We made it through all the holiday buzz, the Christmas present buying, Christmas photo card ordering, addressing, stamping, and mailing...and the holiday travel.
Don't get me wrong, I do LOVE this time of year, but it IS full. Quite full. A few times my family joked that sometime in the future, we'll all cruise to some warm place and enjoy Christmas there. Forget the presents and just enjoy the time and relaxation away from all this commotion and hype.
So, 2015 is almost over. Wow. Another year wrapping up, and what to make of it? Well, a lot has happened this year. My hubs found a job that he mostly enjoys. My job started to deteriorate and so I gave my notice and left. Making this decision was one of the best of the year. My stress decreased, eventually my body became healthier, and overall I am a much happier person. After some soul-searching and praying, I feel led to pursue my next job in the non-profit sphere and I am quite ecstatic about this change.
What else? We are loving our church community and the ways that we are plugged in with folks there. We enjoy our alone, married time, we're having fun with friends, and went on so many trips this year. I like flying Southwest, and I received a notice from them that I took 15 flights throughout the year. That is quite a lot. A highlight of my travels this past year was the "sister trip" that my older sis and I took to Chicago, where we saw U2 in concert. It was a lot of fun and a trip that I'll remember and cherish for years to come. Oh, another first happened this year. My folks finally made the trip to visit us out in DC. We had such a lovely time. I hope that they can come back every couple of years for good times and more sight-seeing. It was truly a good time.
Well, after 2016 commences, I will soon turn 29. What a strange year. It marks the beginning of the last year of my 20's. I can hardly believe that before I know it, I'll be 30. For some reason that year sounds so daunting...like the fun times, laid back schedules, selfish plans, traveling whenever and to wherever days will soon be over. And to replace those care-free 20's will be responsibility filled, big-life adult-like decisions that will tie us down, less travel, more bills, and a tighter schedule. Maybe that won't end up being true, but for some reason when folks turn 30, I think - "Wow, you are really an adult now...have fun with all that lovely responsibility." Eek...
My 20's have been full of adventure, to say the least. And I know it's hard to believe, but I've lived in the DC area for 5 and half years now! Wow - that's the longest I've lived anywhere as an adult. After college, I lived in Kansas for a year before I moved out here. Marriage became part of life in my 20's and it's been full of it's joys and challenges. I think if one wants to grow a lot, then marriage is a good fit. Being married to my hubby has given me a mirror of who I really am unlike any other relationship prior. It's full of it's good, fun, and deep times - and also full of sacrifice, hard times, and bumps along the way....but it's SO worth it.
I also became an Aunt in my 20's and it's a sweet and special deal. These cuties are adorbs and I love them with every ounce of my being. It's a joy to see them grow and change and develop into the little people that God is creating them to be. What an incredible journey they have in front of them! Oh, Lord - protect them from the bad, and help them embrace the journey and the learning that comes from experiencing life. It's definitely full of surprises!
What else? This year I went to a college reunion of my close girlfriends in KC and we had a good time hanging out, talking about babies and pregnancy and births, motherhood, wifehood, and all the challenges of life after college in the "real world". I'm thankful for those ladies. It is good to have people who we do life with and who really know the heart of me and I them. Those are precious friendships that I hope and pray last for the rest of my life. Love them dearly! Also, this year I started reading a book (Christian inspiration/study/encouragement) with a dear friend and discussing it weekly. After we concluded our first book - Simply Tuesday (highly recommend it!), we decided to continue this trend. I am excited to see what we learn and how we continue to grow through this process in 2016.
I feel like every time a new year rolls around that stating and trying (but usually failing miserably) to "new year resolutions" is the trendy thing to do. So, I guess I will jump on this silly bandwagon - and hey, maybe - just maybe I will follow through.
Here are a few 2016 goals/resolutions:
1. Exercise more (2-4 times weekly)
2. Eat less sweets (we're going to try to not buy them but only consume them at social gatherings or when I make sweet things that are gluten/dairy free).
3. Spend more conservatively - start to use cash again soley.
4. Spend more time in prayer and track my prayers in my prayer journal.
5. Read "Jesus Calling" more consistently.
6. Finish my children's book that I started this past year.
7. Create more artistic pieces. I am taking another watercolor class at the start of next year.
8. Walk outside more often.
9. Write 8-10 handwritten letters.
10. Cook and bake more at home; eat out less.
Well, that's all folks! There are my thoughts and musings over the past year and the past decade and a few of my hopes for next year. I pray that it is a bright year, full of goodness and lots of loving. :-)
Enjoy your last few days of 2015, dear readers. It is almost over...so cherish it.
-Tina Lou
Don't get me wrong, I do LOVE this time of year, but it IS full. Quite full. A few times my family joked that sometime in the future, we'll all cruise to some warm place and enjoy Christmas there. Forget the presents and just enjoy the time and relaxation away from all this commotion and hype.
So, 2015 is almost over. Wow. Another year wrapping up, and what to make of it? Well, a lot has happened this year. My hubs found a job that he mostly enjoys. My job started to deteriorate and so I gave my notice and left. Making this decision was one of the best of the year. My stress decreased, eventually my body became healthier, and overall I am a much happier person. After some soul-searching and praying, I feel led to pursue my next job in the non-profit sphere and I am quite ecstatic about this change.
What else? We are loving our church community and the ways that we are plugged in with folks there. We enjoy our alone, married time, we're having fun with friends, and went on so many trips this year. I like flying Southwest, and I received a notice from them that I took 15 flights throughout the year. That is quite a lot. A highlight of my travels this past year was the "sister trip" that my older sis and I took to Chicago, where we saw U2 in concert. It was a lot of fun and a trip that I'll remember and cherish for years to come. Oh, another first happened this year. My folks finally made the trip to visit us out in DC. We had such a lovely time. I hope that they can come back every couple of years for good times and more sight-seeing. It was truly a good time.
Well, after 2016 commences, I will soon turn 29. What a strange year. It marks the beginning of the last year of my 20's. I can hardly believe that before I know it, I'll be 30. For some reason that year sounds so daunting...like the fun times, laid back schedules, selfish plans, traveling whenever and to wherever days will soon be over. And to replace those care-free 20's will be responsibility filled, big-life adult-like decisions that will tie us down, less travel, more bills, and a tighter schedule. Maybe that won't end up being true, but for some reason when folks turn 30, I think - "Wow, you are really an adult now...have fun with all that lovely responsibility." Eek...
My 20's have been full of adventure, to say the least. And I know it's hard to believe, but I've lived in the DC area for 5 and half years now! Wow - that's the longest I've lived anywhere as an adult. After college, I lived in Kansas for a year before I moved out here. Marriage became part of life in my 20's and it's been full of it's joys and challenges. I think if one wants to grow a lot, then marriage is a good fit. Being married to my hubby has given me a mirror of who I really am unlike any other relationship prior. It's full of it's good, fun, and deep times - and also full of sacrifice, hard times, and bumps along the way....but it's SO worth it.
I also became an Aunt in my 20's and it's a sweet and special deal. These cuties are adorbs and I love them with every ounce of my being. It's a joy to see them grow and change and develop into the little people that God is creating them to be. What an incredible journey they have in front of them! Oh, Lord - protect them from the bad, and help them embrace the journey and the learning that comes from experiencing life. It's definitely full of surprises!
What else? This year I went to a college reunion of my close girlfriends in KC and we had a good time hanging out, talking about babies and pregnancy and births, motherhood, wifehood, and all the challenges of life after college in the "real world". I'm thankful for those ladies. It is good to have people who we do life with and who really know the heart of me and I them. Those are precious friendships that I hope and pray last for the rest of my life. Love them dearly! Also, this year I started reading a book (Christian inspiration/study/encouragement) with a dear friend and discussing it weekly. After we concluded our first book - Simply Tuesday (highly recommend it!), we decided to continue this trend. I am excited to see what we learn and how we continue to grow through this process in 2016.
I feel like every time a new year rolls around that stating and trying (but usually failing miserably) to "new year resolutions" is the trendy thing to do. So, I guess I will jump on this silly bandwagon - and hey, maybe - just maybe I will follow through.
Here are a few 2016 goals/resolutions:
1. Exercise more (2-4 times weekly)
2. Eat less sweets (we're going to try to not buy them but only consume them at social gatherings or when I make sweet things that are gluten/dairy free).
3. Spend more conservatively - start to use cash again soley.
4. Spend more time in prayer and track my prayers in my prayer journal.
5. Read "Jesus Calling" more consistently.
6. Finish my children's book that I started this past year.
7. Create more artistic pieces. I am taking another watercolor class at the start of next year.
8. Walk outside more often.
9. Write 8-10 handwritten letters.
10. Cook and bake more at home; eat out less.
Well, that's all folks! There are my thoughts and musings over the past year and the past decade and a few of my hopes for next year. I pray that it is a bright year, full of goodness and lots of loving. :-)
Enjoy your last few days of 2015, dear readers. It is almost over...so cherish it.
-Tina Lou
Saturday, November 7, 2015
Fall time pondering and new seasons
Ah, fall. It is definitely my favorite season of the year. All the beautiful colors, usually crisp, cool weather that accompanies lovely layers of scarves, sweaters, hats, boots, and the like. This year it has been unusually warm. I know a lot of folks have welcomed the warmer weather, but for myself, I miss the cool weather. It just feels wrong for it to be 70 - 80 degrees outside with all the beautiful leaves changing into yellow, red, orange, and brown. Such is life sometimes.
This is a new season for me. I am exploring the beauty of having time. It has truly been a gift. These past few weeks, I have realized my great desire to help others and the joy that comes from this type of work. About five years ago, I worked at a non profit as an advocate for domestic violence and sexual assault victims. It brought great joy and was definitely a rewarding job, but it required a lot of energy and as you can imagine was stressful. It taught me a lot about time management, priorities, and compassion. After that job, I moved here - to the DC Metro area, and my life took a turn.
After working on the hill, I worked at a small business, a government contractor, did door to door sales and marketing, and then worked for a corporation. What a ride it has been! This next season will turn over a different leaf. Ones work must have meaning. I have observed that I NEED to be challenged in my work, to grow, expand or I become frustrated. Knowing that I am making a difference is key. Whether it be increasing the profit margin, creating a better working environment, establishing vibrant relationships that allow for teamwork, creative expression, efficient problem solving, and good project management or whether it simply be working hard and delivering a good product - it has to help in some form or fashion. Otherwise, the work falls flat - and frankly, so do I.
Relationships are important - I believe they are more vital to the work environment than a lot of people consider. Most folks I know show up to work, do their job, and go home. Some consider the value of getting to know their coworkers a little bit, and some do not. I have found in my short professional career of six years that those that go the extra step to know the person behind the work excel, grow, and rise to the top faster than those who do not.
Do you know what the strangest lesson I have learned since college? If one works fast, hard, grows, expands, and wants to move up the ladder it is not praised. Those who like where they are and want to stay there despise the hard worker who finishes their work quickly, efficiently, and with high quality. Why? It makes them look bad. Bizarre, right? I think so. Why wouldn't a person want to grow and improve themselves - work as hard as they can to produce the highest quality product, design, project in the least amount of time? It saves the company money. I haven't figure this one out yet.
I have seen a lot of busy work that amounts to a pile of beans. A lot of excuses about why it takes almost twice as long for some to complete a project than others, and justifications for staying in the same, comfortable place. I guess change is uncomfortable - I get that. But how can folks be content to stay in the same place? And believe you me - a lot of the workforce is perfectly content with the status quo. Maybe my discontentment with it - always wanting to see how I can improve a process or streamline a project or improve the big picture sets me apart. Or maybe it makes me a frustrating employee to have. Because I DO have a lot of ideas, and they do need vetting. The most irritating response to a great idea I have is this. "No, I don't think that is going to work. I mean, it's a great idea. I could see it happening, but you know, it's just a lot of work. I am not sure we have time for it. Let's go this route. I know it may not produce the same results, but it takes less time, so it's a good one. Thanks for your input!"
I mean, really? Do you know what I hear when someone tells me this? Lazy. Or that they aren't willing to put in the time or let me work a little extra to do it myself - which I am happy to do. Anyways, I have rambled and vented too much about my observations in the workforce.
All that to say, I am supremely excited for the possibilities this next season holds. I am sure there will be challenges, workplace drama (can't escape that!), frustrations, but I am hopeful that there will also be great joy. For in meaningful work, one can find great satisfaction, motivation, and endurance to press forward with vigor and a great work ethic and attitude. This is what I desire.
Having the ability to express myself creatively is key. The possibilities are endless. Let's dream in our workplaces, collaborate, produce high quality products, projects, and work. And let's not be fearful of the naysayer or the lazy coworker who pushes back. Let's dream greatness. It may just change the small corner of your workplace or mine. We have an opportunity in our short lifetime to make a real difference in other people's lives. Let that not just be in our personal lives, but also in our professional ones. For it is in that space - the workplace, that we spend the majority of our time. Make it count. Be the person you want others to be blessed and encouraged by. Let's learn to look outside of ourselves, take the extra minute to listen, and just see where it takes us.
New seasons are beautiful. I love that the new season I am walking into just happens to coincide with my favorite time of year - fall. I hope to fall deeply into the season with joy, hope, vigor, and a vision to help others and work hard.
What is your ambition in this season of your life? Seasons come and go. It is how we treat them that matters - with care, with a ho hum attitude that coasts, with disdain, with energy - these are the options, dear friends. I hope you walk into the next phase of your season with eyes wide open, ready to offer your best and see the results.
Enjoy the rest of this lovely season. May it bring joy to your hearts.
Until next time,
Tina Lou
This is a new season for me. I am exploring the beauty of having time. It has truly been a gift. These past few weeks, I have realized my great desire to help others and the joy that comes from this type of work. About five years ago, I worked at a non profit as an advocate for domestic violence and sexual assault victims. It brought great joy and was definitely a rewarding job, but it required a lot of energy and as you can imagine was stressful. It taught me a lot about time management, priorities, and compassion. After that job, I moved here - to the DC Metro area, and my life took a turn.
After working on the hill, I worked at a small business, a government contractor, did door to door sales and marketing, and then worked for a corporation. What a ride it has been! This next season will turn over a different leaf. Ones work must have meaning. I have observed that I NEED to be challenged in my work, to grow, expand or I become frustrated. Knowing that I am making a difference is key. Whether it be increasing the profit margin, creating a better working environment, establishing vibrant relationships that allow for teamwork, creative expression, efficient problem solving, and good project management or whether it simply be working hard and delivering a good product - it has to help in some form or fashion. Otherwise, the work falls flat - and frankly, so do I.
Relationships are important - I believe they are more vital to the work environment than a lot of people consider. Most folks I know show up to work, do their job, and go home. Some consider the value of getting to know their coworkers a little bit, and some do not. I have found in my short professional career of six years that those that go the extra step to know the person behind the work excel, grow, and rise to the top faster than those who do not.
Do you know what the strangest lesson I have learned since college? If one works fast, hard, grows, expands, and wants to move up the ladder it is not praised. Those who like where they are and want to stay there despise the hard worker who finishes their work quickly, efficiently, and with high quality. Why? It makes them look bad. Bizarre, right? I think so. Why wouldn't a person want to grow and improve themselves - work as hard as they can to produce the highest quality product, design, project in the least amount of time? It saves the company money. I haven't figure this one out yet.
I have seen a lot of busy work that amounts to a pile of beans. A lot of excuses about why it takes almost twice as long for some to complete a project than others, and justifications for staying in the same, comfortable place. I guess change is uncomfortable - I get that. But how can folks be content to stay in the same place? And believe you me - a lot of the workforce is perfectly content with the status quo. Maybe my discontentment with it - always wanting to see how I can improve a process or streamline a project or improve the big picture sets me apart. Or maybe it makes me a frustrating employee to have. Because I DO have a lot of ideas, and they do need vetting. The most irritating response to a great idea I have is this. "No, I don't think that is going to work. I mean, it's a great idea. I could see it happening, but you know, it's just a lot of work. I am not sure we have time for it. Let's go this route. I know it may not produce the same results, but it takes less time, so it's a good one. Thanks for your input!"
I mean, really? Do you know what I hear when someone tells me this? Lazy. Or that they aren't willing to put in the time or let me work a little extra to do it myself - which I am happy to do. Anyways, I have rambled and vented too much about my observations in the workforce.
All that to say, I am supremely excited for the possibilities this next season holds. I am sure there will be challenges, workplace drama (can't escape that!), frustrations, but I am hopeful that there will also be great joy. For in meaningful work, one can find great satisfaction, motivation, and endurance to press forward with vigor and a great work ethic and attitude. This is what I desire.
Having the ability to express myself creatively is key. The possibilities are endless. Let's dream in our workplaces, collaborate, produce high quality products, projects, and work. And let's not be fearful of the naysayer or the lazy coworker who pushes back. Let's dream greatness. It may just change the small corner of your workplace or mine. We have an opportunity in our short lifetime to make a real difference in other people's lives. Let that not just be in our personal lives, but also in our professional ones. For it is in that space - the workplace, that we spend the majority of our time. Make it count. Be the person you want others to be blessed and encouraged by. Let's learn to look outside of ourselves, take the extra minute to listen, and just see where it takes us.
New seasons are beautiful. I love that the new season I am walking into just happens to coincide with my favorite time of year - fall. I hope to fall deeply into the season with joy, hope, vigor, and a vision to help others and work hard.
What is your ambition in this season of your life? Seasons come and go. It is how we treat them that matters - with care, with a ho hum attitude that coasts, with disdain, with energy - these are the options, dear friends. I hope you walk into the next phase of your season with eyes wide open, ready to offer your best and see the results.
Enjoy the rest of this lovely season. May it bring joy to your hearts.
Until next time,
Tina Lou
Tuesday, July 14, 2015
Summertime
Hello dear readers...
Since my health is a fiasco right now, I don't think I am going to write about it anymore. Maybe someday in the future I will be healthy again, but I need a break from focusing on it for now. So, instead I will just give some thoughts and updates from summertime thus far.
First of all, I can hardly believe that summer is already halfway over! What happened? Where did all the time go? :) At the end of May, we made a trip with folks from our church to the Chesapeake Bay and it was a lovely time. I highly recommend going if you have a chance - it's beautiful. June came and went - I was sick for most of it, so there wasn't a lot of exciting happenings. At the end of June I met my older sister in Chicago for a sister weekend and we had a blast!
We ate delicious food - deep dish Chicago pizza, a yummy brunch at Bakin' & Eggs, good Greek food, and the Art Institute's cafeteria salad, which was surprisingly delicious. The first night we went and explored Millennium Park and enjoyed an outdoor concert, where they played Mendelson's Reformation and it was absolutely lovely. For a little while, I was in another world enjoying the melody and stunning images that came to mind as the music wafted throughout the park. The next day, we went to the beach - it was grand. I wish my city had a beach at the end of it - what a glorious thing! That evening we went to the top of the old Sears tower - now known as the Willis tower. There were fabulous views at the top of it - but the whole experience took about 3 hours, which was a lonnng time.
On our last full day there, we spent the day at the Art Institute and it was fabulous. There's so much to see - we didn't even see all of it. Someday, I definitely want to go back! In the evening, we made our way to the United Center and saw U2 in concert. Wow! What an experience. It was incredible, dear friends. If you ever have a chance, spend the money and go see them - so grand.
For the 4th of July, we spent time with both families, which was great. I always enjoy celebrating the 4th with G's family. It amounts to pedi's and mani's, a big group lunch out, hanging in the afternoon, a yummy dinner with homemade ice cream, and then the cousins put on a nice nighttime show. Good times, indeed! This year, there were a few little ones in the mix, which was a blast.
New this summer is the fact that my husband finally found a job - and he loves it! He works a lot these days, but they are quite busy and it helps that he enjoys it greatly. My job is another story...
My mother-in-law is planning a visit at the end of the month and I think we plan to go to the Building Museum, which should be great fun. I see they have a cool beach exhibit there right now. I'm excited!
In other news, I started a watercolor art class this week through the art league. I'm excited to learn and create with watercolor. Previously, I have done oil painting and charcoal. Both are great, but a lot more time consuming than watercolor. The supplies almost broke the bank, but I keep reminding myself that they will last for a while.
And here are a few hopes for the rest of the year...
- To see my college girlfriends all in one place for an extended weekend.
- For my folks to finally come visit us here in DC.
- To have some breathing room.
- Go see NYC with my babe (the hubs).
- Finally write that children's book I've been planning to write for years...
That's about it for now. Hope your summers are going splendidly. Be sure to make time for the beach or the pool. Hanging in the sun is good for the soul.
Cheers,
Tina Lou
Since my health is a fiasco right now, I don't think I am going to write about it anymore. Maybe someday in the future I will be healthy again, but I need a break from focusing on it for now. So, instead I will just give some thoughts and updates from summertime thus far.
First of all, I can hardly believe that summer is already halfway over! What happened? Where did all the time go? :) At the end of May, we made a trip with folks from our church to the Chesapeake Bay and it was a lovely time. I highly recommend going if you have a chance - it's beautiful. June came and went - I was sick for most of it, so there wasn't a lot of exciting happenings. At the end of June I met my older sister in Chicago for a sister weekend and we had a blast!
We ate delicious food - deep dish Chicago pizza, a yummy brunch at Bakin' & Eggs, good Greek food, and the Art Institute's cafeteria salad, which was surprisingly delicious. The first night we went and explored Millennium Park and enjoyed an outdoor concert, where they played Mendelson's Reformation and it was absolutely lovely. For a little while, I was in another world enjoying the melody and stunning images that came to mind as the music wafted throughout the park. The next day, we went to the beach - it was grand. I wish my city had a beach at the end of it - what a glorious thing! That evening we went to the top of the old Sears tower - now known as the Willis tower. There were fabulous views at the top of it - but the whole experience took about 3 hours, which was a lonnng time.
On our last full day there, we spent the day at the Art Institute and it was fabulous. There's so much to see - we didn't even see all of it. Someday, I definitely want to go back! In the evening, we made our way to the United Center and saw U2 in concert. Wow! What an experience. It was incredible, dear friends. If you ever have a chance, spend the money and go see them - so grand.
For the 4th of July, we spent time with both families, which was great. I always enjoy celebrating the 4th with G's family. It amounts to pedi's and mani's, a big group lunch out, hanging in the afternoon, a yummy dinner with homemade ice cream, and then the cousins put on a nice nighttime show. Good times, indeed! This year, there were a few little ones in the mix, which was a blast.
New this summer is the fact that my husband finally found a job - and he loves it! He works a lot these days, but they are quite busy and it helps that he enjoys it greatly. My job is another story...
My mother-in-law is planning a visit at the end of the month and I think we plan to go to the Building Museum, which should be great fun. I see they have a cool beach exhibit there right now. I'm excited!
In other news, I started a watercolor art class this week through the art league. I'm excited to learn and create with watercolor. Previously, I have done oil painting and charcoal. Both are great, but a lot more time consuming than watercolor. The supplies almost broke the bank, but I keep reminding myself that they will last for a while.
And here are a few hopes for the rest of the year...
- To see my college girlfriends all in one place for an extended weekend.
- For my folks to finally come visit us here in DC.
- To have some breathing room.
- Go see NYC with my babe (the hubs).
- Finally write that children's book I've been planning to write for years...
That's about it for now. Hope your summers are going splendidly. Be sure to make time for the beach or the pool. Hanging in the sun is good for the soul.
Cheers,
Tina Lou
Sunday, May 17, 2015
Back from my hiatus away...
Good morning readers -
And welcome to May. I know - we're already
halfway through it and seeing signs of Summer before it feels like Spring had
its chance to fully bloom.
This past month or so since I have not
been updating the blog has been a rough season. Not only with multiple health
issues that I was not sure how to highlight here without going into too much
detail, but in my career as well.
So - after talking to doctors, my dentist,
etc., I realized drinking the lemon (acidic) and honey first thing in the
morning was not doing me any favors. That one is nixed from my goals. Here are
my revised goals for the rest of the year...
1. Exercise - take a 15-30 minute walk
three times a week (probably around my office, in the District), and one long
walk on the weekends.
2. SLEEP - Make it a priority to have at least 7 hours of sleep
a night. This one has been bad lately. My almost consistent hour is 6 of sleep
and half the time it's less. This one needs work for sure!
3. Less sugar - This one is going better.
My GI doc said to cut down/out the chocolate (because of the caffeine in it),
so despite this being hard because I LOVE dark chocolate, I have decreased this
intake drastically in the last month.
4. Take Acidophilus once a day - This one
is less consistent, but I do take it a few times a week. I need to go purchase
more at Mom's Organic Market this week. Here's what I'm talking about: http://www.vitacost.com/american-health-probiotic-acidophilus-blueberry-20-billion-16-fl-oz .
I personally like the strawberry one.
5. Slow down. This goal is incredibly hard
for me. For some reason, my whole life I have been driven to have an active (probably overactive) social calendar and this does not provide balance and
time/space in my week and life to rest and just be. How do I quantify
this?
*One night a week (the same one, b/c
choosing a different night each week didn't really work for us), G and I are
home together. Keep a YA one, but maybe every other week.
I'm choosing to stay home on Wednesday nights, and leave Friday night for a
possible date night out with friends or my husband. On Sat/Sunday I am keeping
my social calendar to 10am - 7/8pm. The ultimate goal is to appreciate the "white space" on my calendar, and embrace resting and stillness...allowing my body to heal.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
Readers, #7 will be a real struggle! And
in the month of May it is not reasonable. So - in June, I'm really going to try
and clear my calendar now (except for G's birthday celebration), so I can focus
on resting and healing my body.
Something I haven't shared on here (at
least I don't think so), is that I have adrenal
fatigue. I've known about it for three years now, and I haven't really
taken the steps to allow my body to rest, heal, and for my adrenal glands to
start functioning again the way that God created them to be inside my body. The
one thing I do every night is
put on this awesome crème called, Adrenal Calm that my natural chiropractor
gave me. It is awesome stuff...it relaxes me, calms me, and off to dreamland I
go. Also, I sometimes use a spoonk before bed. It's like an acupuncture mat
that you lay on for 35 minutes and then take it out from your back (ever so
carefully) and then fall asleep. Here's the link for it. And believe you me, it
works! A girlfriend of mine who also has adrenal issues told me about it, and
we both love it. http://www.spoonkspace.com/ I
bought mine on Amazon - or rather, my husband purchased it for me for a
birthday present and included the travel size (which is great - since I travel
close to once a month).
So - I'm back. My usual Sunday morning time
to blog was eaten up by helping with an outreach / asks any questions in a safe
place / group called Alpha that G & I help out with from 10-11am at our
community. I will make it a priority to come and share my journey again. Thanks
for your patience and understanding. Life has peaks and valleys, and well - I
feel like I'm riding in the middle of both at present time.
A few tips to relax. Start appreciating
the small moments of life (learned this from "One Thousand Gifts" by
Ann Voskamp) and thanking Jesus for them. This small practice has help change
my attitude. The other one is to breathe deeply when really stressed,
frustrated, or annoyed. It calms me and I can think logically again without all
the emotions swirling to the top. Thirdly, the practice of shutting the door at
work or somehow being ALONE (not in traffic...doesn't count, sorry) at home and
just focusing on beauty - nature, a lovely painting, etc and drinking it in
while praying. This last small practice refocuses me on what is important in
life, and helps me remember that all "this crap" is just
circumstances trying to distract me, remove my focus from my King, and pull me
into the swirl of busyness, work chaos, home disasters, relationship woes, etc.
Coming back into His arms and letting it all go (this takes time) and learning
to trust Him more - well, it speaks life and refreshment to my soul.
Enjoy the rest of your Sunday and have a
fabulous start to the fourth week of May, dear friends. May peace like a river
fill your minds and souls as you embark into your spheres, and may the King of
the universe speak life and love into your hearts.
Until next time,
Tina Lou
Tuesday, March 31, 2015
Week 4 - Health Challenge
Good morning and welcome to Holy week!
Wow. What a whirlwind this past week was for me. Starting on Monday, I worked an incredible amount at my job. By the time I left around 2:20pm on Thursday, I had already worked 55 hours. Go figure. My company's department hosted a FLC Fly-in to DC, the second annual one, and it was twice as big as last year. My responsibility leading up to it was sending out Hill meeting requests to all our targeted Senate offices, and I feel like I did pretty well with this. There were only two offices that we did not end up getting meetings with, and I think 2-3 of them came through because of relationships our lobbyists have. Another key and time consuming responsibility was coordinating all the logistics for the week. Fancy dinners on Monday & Tuesday, a more casual dinner on Wednesday, plus cupcakes for birthdays (from my fav cupcakery in DC - Baked & Wired) on Thursday and boxed lunches for them as they headed home. Oh - and coordinating the logistics for our training day at MWE and then the food and such at our home base - CHC for the Hill day. All in all it went pretty well, and the FLC members said they had a great time and enjoyed going to more Hill visits than last year. For me, it was a tad stressful with some things being left to the last minute that weren't in my area, but another colleague and I pulled together and made it happen to give them the list of who was in their groups. At the end of the week, one of the FLC members told me that this piece of paper of who was in what groups was the most helpful piece of paper to him in the packet! It felt all worth it when I heard that comment.
Anyways, health wise was not good this week. This shows the data from Sun, March 22nd - Sunday morning, March 29th. Since this is a public forum, I will not go into the details on here, but suffice it to say the stress, lack of sleep, and my struggle to stay hydrated (even though I carry a reusable water bottle with me everywhere) all contributed.
1. Drink honey-lemon water every morning. Check! Yes, I have done this every morning, and really enjoy this step. It tastes delicious and is a good way to wake up in the morning. I think the missing piece for me with this is GINGER. I tend to have a lot of uncomfortable stomach pain most every day, and at least every week - so if I add ginger to my morning routine with the honey & lemon, it might help. I will try it this week.
2. Exercise - Well, I did do a lot of walking on Wednesday (Hill Day). So much so, that my left ankle was killing me and my right knee for the next few days. I need to stretch my calves more, which will help my tendons not pull on my body in the wrong way causing pain. And on Friday, I did some walking (10 minutes) outside, which was refreshing. So, it's not "organized" exercise, but it's a small step for me.
3. Sleep: I track my sleep on an app on my iPhone called "Sleep Bot", so let me look at my logs for the week and see if I got 7 hours each night or not.
This week was dismal with sleep. It's almost too embarrassing to share, but I will.
1 night - 8 hours ; 2 nights - 7+ hours; 1 night - 5.5; 1 night 4.5; 2 night - 6+ with a Sat nap (so Fri night into Sat all day - I'd say - 7 hrs). I told you it was sad...
4. Less sugar - I believe I was more successful in this category. Each day, I did have sugar, but it was only 1-2 items, not miniature sized candies throughout the day. I am making progress here. Next week, we are doing a different kind of eating plan with our YA group at our community. We are eating foods like the rest of the country - no meat, dairy, or refined sugar. It's mainly beans, rice, lentils, local in-season veggies (or frozen veggies for us), spices, bananas and plantains (yum!).So - we'll see if I make it all week with no refined sugars. I am still taking my daily honey potion in the morning.
5. Take high powered probiotic every day.
So, this one has been controversial for me. I went to the doctor on Thursday, and he advised that I STOP taking the Ultra Probiotics (which I had already done) and resume taking Acidophilius - see previous post for link. I took my probiotic in the liquid form 3 times this week...so half fail, half success.
Overall health: Not great this week. I had stomach pain, little sleep, increased heart rate, etc. Suffice it to say, after all the working part was complete, I went to the doctor on Thursday afternoon. He said I have a sinus infection in both nasal cavities, so I'm on a penicillin version of an antibiotic that is doing a number to my stomach and other end. :-/ But hopefully it's killing all the bad bacteria. I'm also doing flonase when I remember - usually after irrigating in the morning or after a shower. I still sneeze an awful lot! The doc wants me to see their in house allergist this coming week on Friday.
Back in the fall of 2009 when I was still in Kansas, my allergies were giving me a run for my money. I was sick the entire month of July and so in October that year, I went to see one. They found I am allergic to ragweed, pollen, mold, and pine trees. Since it's been 5 years and I'm in a new environment (part of the country), it does make sense. Well, like the rest of us with the change of ACA in the last few years, my health insurance is not great. There are no more copays. Boo. Instead I have to meet my deductible of $2,600 - 100% and can pay for it through my HSA. I'm seriously not a fan, but that doesn't matter, because it is what we have. That said, Kia called me (the allergist) and said that it will cost between $200 - $500 to take. So - we'll see if I keep my appointment or not. Of course since it's the beginning of the year, I have only put a small dent into my deductible. Time will tell on that one. I have a follow-up with my family care physician on Wednesday this week. I am hoping for better sleep. Although, last night I was up in the middle of the night after using the restroom and my stomach was cramping and in all kind of knots. After drinking almost a glass of water and #2, I was able to feel slightly better. I will be glad when I'm done with this round of antibiotics and have my intestines back to "normal".
Well, that's all for now. I will say - I am loving the cusp of Spring we experienced last week here. There were some beautiful days of warm weather, some light Spring showers, and just the promise that it is coming soon! This past weekend was cold, but this week it is supposed to be warmer. I am hoping the Cherry Blossoms peak when they are projected to arrive - around April 9th.
Have a great week, all! Be well, look for the bright side (there's always one...we just have to look hard for it sometimes), and remember to communicate the heart with others - intention matters a lot. I am learning this.
Hugs & love,
Tina Lou
Wow. What a whirlwind this past week was for me. Starting on Monday, I worked an incredible amount at my job. By the time I left around 2:20pm on Thursday, I had already worked 55 hours. Go figure. My company's department hosted a FLC Fly-in to DC, the second annual one, and it was twice as big as last year. My responsibility leading up to it was sending out Hill meeting requests to all our targeted Senate offices, and I feel like I did pretty well with this. There were only two offices that we did not end up getting meetings with, and I think 2-3 of them came through because of relationships our lobbyists have. Another key and time consuming responsibility was coordinating all the logistics for the week. Fancy dinners on Monday & Tuesday, a more casual dinner on Wednesday, plus cupcakes for birthdays (from my fav cupcakery in DC - Baked & Wired) on Thursday and boxed lunches for them as they headed home. Oh - and coordinating the logistics for our training day at MWE and then the food and such at our home base - CHC for the Hill day. All in all it went pretty well, and the FLC members said they had a great time and enjoyed going to more Hill visits than last year. For me, it was a tad stressful with some things being left to the last minute that weren't in my area, but another colleague and I pulled together and made it happen to give them the list of who was in their groups. At the end of the week, one of the FLC members told me that this piece of paper of who was in what groups was the most helpful piece of paper to him in the packet! It felt all worth it when I heard that comment.
Anyways, health wise was not good this week. This shows the data from Sun, March 22nd - Sunday morning, March 29th. Since this is a public forum, I will not go into the details on here, but suffice it to say the stress, lack of sleep, and my struggle to stay hydrated (even though I carry a reusable water bottle with me everywhere) all contributed.
1. Drink honey-lemon water every morning. Check! Yes, I have done this every morning, and really enjoy this step. It tastes delicious and is a good way to wake up in the morning. I think the missing piece for me with this is GINGER. I tend to have a lot of uncomfortable stomach pain most every day, and at least every week - so if I add ginger to my morning routine with the honey & lemon, it might help. I will try it this week.
2. Exercise - Well, I did do a lot of walking on Wednesday (Hill Day). So much so, that my left ankle was killing me and my right knee for the next few days. I need to stretch my calves more, which will help my tendons not pull on my body in the wrong way causing pain. And on Friday, I did some walking (10 minutes) outside, which was refreshing. So, it's not "organized" exercise, but it's a small step for me.
3. Sleep: I track my sleep on an app on my iPhone called "Sleep Bot", so let me look at my logs for the week and see if I got 7 hours each night or not.
This week was dismal with sleep. It's almost too embarrassing to share, but I will.
1 night - 8 hours ; 2 nights - 7+ hours; 1 night - 5.5; 1 night 4.5; 2 night - 6+ with a Sat nap (so Fri night into Sat all day - I'd say - 7 hrs). I told you it was sad...
4. Less sugar - I believe I was more successful in this category. Each day, I did have sugar, but it was only 1-2 items, not miniature sized candies throughout the day. I am making progress here. Next week, we are doing a different kind of eating plan with our YA group at our community. We are eating foods like the rest of the country - no meat, dairy, or refined sugar. It's mainly beans, rice, lentils, local in-season veggies (or frozen veggies for us), spices, bananas and plantains (yum!).So - we'll see if I make it all week with no refined sugars. I am still taking my daily honey potion in the morning.
5. Take high powered probiotic every day.
So, this one has been controversial for me. I went to the doctor on Thursday, and he advised that I STOP taking the Ultra Probiotics (which I had already done) and resume taking Acidophilius - see previous post for link. I took my probiotic in the liquid form 3 times this week...so half fail, half success.
Overall health: Not great this week. I had stomach pain, little sleep, increased heart rate, etc. Suffice it to say, after all the working part was complete, I went to the doctor on Thursday afternoon. He said I have a sinus infection in both nasal cavities, so I'm on a penicillin version of an antibiotic that is doing a number to my stomach and other end. :-/ But hopefully it's killing all the bad bacteria. I'm also doing flonase when I remember - usually after irrigating in the morning or after a shower. I still sneeze an awful lot! The doc wants me to see their in house allergist this coming week on Friday.
Back in the fall of 2009 when I was still in Kansas, my allergies were giving me a run for my money. I was sick the entire month of July and so in October that year, I went to see one. They found I am allergic to ragweed, pollen, mold, and pine trees. Since it's been 5 years and I'm in a new environment (part of the country), it does make sense. Well, like the rest of us with the change of ACA in the last few years, my health insurance is not great. There are no more copays. Boo. Instead I have to meet my deductible of $2,600 - 100% and can pay for it through my HSA. I'm seriously not a fan, but that doesn't matter, because it is what we have. That said, Kia called me (the allergist) and said that it will cost between $200 - $500 to take. So - we'll see if I keep my appointment or not. Of course since it's the beginning of the year, I have only put a small dent into my deductible. Time will tell on that one. I have a follow-up with my family care physician on Wednesday this week. I am hoping for better sleep. Although, last night I was up in the middle of the night after using the restroom and my stomach was cramping and in all kind of knots. After drinking almost a glass of water and #2, I was able to feel slightly better. I will be glad when I'm done with this round of antibiotics and have my intestines back to "normal".
Well, that's all for now. I will say - I am loving the cusp of Spring we experienced last week here. There were some beautiful days of warm weather, some light Spring showers, and just the promise that it is coming soon! This past weekend was cold, but this week it is supposed to be warmer. I am hoping the Cherry Blossoms peak when they are projected to arrive - around April 9th.
Have a great week, all! Be well, look for the bright side (there's always one...we just have to look hard for it sometimes), and remember to communicate the heart with others - intention matters a lot. I am learning this.
Hugs & love,
Tina Lou
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