Thanksgiving 5k

For the past couple of years, I've participated in a Turkey Strut 5k sponsored by our local Fleet Feet store.  It's always a super fun time; supports a local food bank; and takes an hour or two away from food.  

This year, I'll be participating in a virtual 5k sponsored by  A Journey to Thin.  Click over to her website for details! 

What's been "pinned"?

I've talked about Pinterest many times on my blog - y'all (all 2 of my dedicated readers) are probably tired of hearing about it.  :)    However, it's my go-to for all sorts of things:  recipes, decorating ideas, healthy living inspiration, how-to!   While I have 1000s of pins,  I thought it would be great to start a board of Pins I've Completed!   I have a list a mile long of home projects to complete, but the next up will be our spare bathroom and found lots of design & inspiration ideas!

Do you ever try any of your pins?

PS - Remember when chevron was called zig-zag!  :)

Excuses, excuses!

As you may remember, I'm a huge fan of early morning exercise.  When super-son was in elementary school, I was up at 515am for boot camp three times a week.  Last year, he started middle school & our middle school starts at 7:25am!  There was no way to get to boot camp, home & shower, (oh & get him up too!) and make it to school on time.  

I came up with plan b & it consisted of walking/running after I dropped him off and showering at the work fitness center.  In December, I changed jobs & it wasn't feasible to do that anymore.  What's a girl to do?  Nothing - I've pretty much had zero exercise routine since earlier this year. 

Super husband works evenings, so it's difficult to do after work.  I feel guilty leaving super son at home any longer than I have to after school. The reality there is no reason I can't take advantage of Saturday & Sunday - yes, both days are super busy but it comes down to making excuses or getting it done.  

Yesterday, I got it done. Moved at a snails pace, but it was better than sitting on the couch!  What's your excuse?

Hello Sunshine!

It is a gorgeous day here in the south - slightly cooler temperatures, partly sunny, and on the verge of a long weekend.  What's not to love?  

Every now and again, I run into someone who is having a bad day or sad time.  I pondered across this idea on Pinterest a while back & it's amazing how such a small token of kindness can touch someone. 

-grab a box or bag

-fill with all things yellow

-add a note to cheer them

Viola!  You have your very own sunshine box!

Here is a picture of a few items I picked up this week for one.

How cheery - you have to smile!

Summer is Slipping Away!

How quickly time flies when you are having fun!  Five weeks from today school resumes - it seems like school just released for the summer. 

While I don't get any extra time off, I do enjoy the relaxed pace. No ridiculous early wake-up -- whose idea was it to start middle school at 7:20a!  The bus stops are scheduled as early as 6:20.  I hang-up my hat as homework police - it's not a job I enjoy but it's necessary to monitor at our house. 

Summer has been a bit different this year.  My in-laws have been forced to downsize due to health reasons.  While we had hoped they would move into assisted type living, they chose a small 2 bedroom condo. It was necessary & past time to make a move. Unfortunately, we've been blessed with the task of trying to empty their house of contents. We've spent 5 Saturdays in the garage alone. It's overwhelming to say the least.  I pray they will find a buyer who would like a true fixer-upper, so they don't have to worry with it anymore. 

How's your summer? 

Beach on a Budget

For the past few years, vacation funds have been very tight.  Last year, we opted for a "staycation".  It was great, but we really wanted to get back to the beach this year.  I know these options will not work for everyone, but I wanted to share what has worked for us. 

Accommodations: This will most likely be the most expensive part of your vacation.  If you know someone who has a timeshare, ask them if they have weeks they would like to sell.  You may not get your first choice destination, but if they have weeks they may lose - they will most likely take a reasonable offer from you.  Also, check craigslist vacation rentals in the area you would like to visit. If you find one, ask for references. 

Food:  We always look for a condo/hotel room with a kitchenette. We arrived last Sunday evening & left today. We ate dinner out once (the night we arrived) & breakfast out once (this AM). I realize the thought of cooking on vacation is appalling to some people, so do what works for you. It's worth it for us to save money!   

Breakfast ideas: bagels, cinnamon rolls, cereal, sausage biscuits

Lunch: always sandwich & chips for us

Dinner: BBQ, chicken pie, pasta bake, spaghetti, chicken legs, leftovers!

Attractions: We like the beach & we like to enjoy it. Between the ocean & the pool, we are content. I know some folks like to go-go-go!  Look for local attraction books, early bird specials, state parks, military discounts. 

Planning: Start a vacation savings club for next year. Contributing as little as $10 a week will give you over $500 next year!

Again, these are my opinions & what works for my family. I realize they may not work for all. 

Hello Arthur!

If you haven't heard the coast of NC & SC had a visitor today, Hurricane Arthur. The picture was taken early this AM before the winds were gusty & the rain was pouring. You can tell by the white caps that the ocean was getting rough. Fortunately, the storm has moved further up the coast & we are expecting sunny skies tomorrow.  We are sending prayers to those on the OBX where the eye is expected to make landfall tonight.