November

“I tell you about my Dad to tell you that the reality that there are tens of millions of people who do not find character and integrity and truth telling to be basic requirements for elected public service is absolutely insane to me.” Rob Bell

It has been a rough month since the election. I have focused on taking really good care of myself. I want to have a calm nervous system. I signed up for an online Illustrative Figures course, and started drawing with colored pencils. Art therapy is a real thing. It has been helpful to spend quiet time drawing. I search for a quote that goes with the sketch. It has been fun and I will keep on practicing.

I am also plunging twice a week with the Plungettes. The ocean is 53 degrees. The water has been calm and beautiful. Our goal is 11 minutes a week. Plunging is a challenge and always makes me feel better.

I am back drinking my coffee with butter, MCT oil, plus a scoop of collagen. I am focusing on getting enough protein. I am working on cutting down on my alcohol intake which is never easy. I am tired of thinking about it. I know it is not good for me, but it is such a nice way to end the day. I do feel better with less.

I had a mammogram, a CT scan for my Calcium score and my eye lasered. All is well. I am happy to check all of that off my list!

Now, on to peace and joy for the Holidays. Enjoy it, focus on feeling your best!

Love,

Mary

"To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow." -Audrey Hepburn

“To plant a garden is to believe in tomorrow.” Audrey Hepburn

September

REFINISHED FLOORS: I have been wanting to refinish our floors for years. We have been living in our house for 41 years, and the floors needed to be refinished. Most of the floors were golden oak, but the stairs and one bedroom were dark . I wanted everything to match. I went with Natural to go with the shades of white on the walls. It is very pretty and soothing.

CLEANED OUT THE GARAGE AND CLOSETS: We had to put our furniture in the garage and basement in order to refinish the floors. I am being very mindful as to what is coming back in. I love a minimal look and it is so much easier to keep clean. I bought a Norwek Mop to keep the floors clean. I am mopping the kitchen and den area every night before bed. I love our lighter house, keeping it clean and less cluttered. Is puttering a pastime?

70TH BIRTHDAY: I had a steak dinner and carrot cake with my family. My brothers took me out to Drew’s Bistro for beer, pork chops, bacon sauerkraut, and smashed potatoes. The OutdoorFit ladies took me out for eggs benedict and French toast. It was a delicious birthday week!

RUNNING AND OUTDOORFIT: I am running twice a week in Huber woods. Three times a week, I am doing a 60 rep OutdoorFit weight training workout. My arms and shoulders feel strong when I am running. It is all quite amazing. I am at a weight that I was when I was 30.

TAP CLASS: I started tapping! I joined a beginner’s class through the park system. It is very humbling. I am not Gene Kelly yet but I am working on it!

BOOKS: I read Allison Pataki’s The Magnificent Lives Of Marjorie Post, Diane Keaton’s Fashion First and Marie Benedicts’ The First Ladies.

How was your September? What have you been working on? I would love to hear.

Love,

Mary

Small Details

Every morning, I like to get up, make a cup of coffee, sit down in my corner of the couch and write in my journal. Part of me thinks this is silly and why do I bother taking the time. I noticed when I skip a day or two I miss it. It helps ground me and gives focus to my day.

Yesterday, I finished writing and I randomly opened up to March 6th. This is what I wrote. “I want to write short daily blog posts, short videos, daily habits, events, enjoying simplicity.” I have not posted in 2 months.

I love the small details in people’s lives. Perhaps, my details might inspire you.

Do you like to journal in the morning with a cup of coffee?

Mary

Integrity-Love-Simplicity