catching up is hard to do.

I know I'm behind on my posts, and I'm sorry.  I've not been myself these last 6 weeks and I'm not liking that I've allowed myself to get like this. My eating habits have gotten out of control and I've been stress eating.  I've not been working out and everything has been overwhelming with everything I've been trying to do.  I've been working 7 days a week since the end of August and after only a few short weeks I began to lose my balance.  I was working to hard and my body crashed into a depressive state.  I was spending so much time working and focusing on house hunting that I forgot about everything else. 

I've gained 6 lbs, which doesn't sound like a lot, but visually it's not a picture I like to see, and my shoulders and neck are so tight.  Last week my chiropractor told me this is the worst he's seen me and I have another appointment Thursday.  I did finally restore my gym membership last week, and I've been able to go twice.  It feels so good to run and some stress has been relieved, but I have so much stored in my shoulders and neck it's going to be awhile before I'm fully recovered.  

I'm excited for the weekend as this is going to be my first weekend that I'm not working since the end of August and I'll be spending all of it with friends.  Friday I'm going to a bonfire, Saturday I may be helping a friend paint her room, in the evening I'm going to a friends for Karaoke and Sunday I'll be attending our young adult service, which I've missed the last two months.   

Things are looking up in the house hunt and right now I'm just trying to be patient, but feeling anxious to hear news from my Realtor about a house I want to buy.  It's a numbers game right now and I'm not sure if the numbers will add up in my favor for this place.  The positive is since viewing this place on Friday I've stopped looking for other places, which is a good sign that I'm not looking for a way out like I've done with the previous two that I was close to putting an offer on.  Though my dad did help in my decision of not purchasing them.  It's been helpful and a blessing to have both my parents along with me on the house I have a high interest in and even better that they are not finding reasons to argue with each other.  I really appreciate their opinions and want their blessing in the house I decide to buy and I have that with with current house.

HERE'S A SNEAK PEAK THE DINING AREA   

I know I've got to get back on track with my eats and exercise so I'll be working on a plan tongiht so I don't try to add any more excuses to why I'm out of control and getting fat.

I plan on re-starting the Sexy is Strong Challenge, which I'm excited about.  This is a great challenge and I saw so much progress in the 5 weeks I was going strong.  I also plan on writing down my eats again.  This is a way for me to really see what I'm eating and when.  I'm also going to be good and start slow.  I'm going to be working out just 3 days a week, and only cardio.  My first, this week, I'll be working out at the gym in the evening doing only cardio.  Then next week I'll resume my morning workouts at the gym and hopefully catch up with a few of my workout buddies I haven't seen since June.  I'm also going to not turn on the computer after 9pm, so I'm not up past 10pm and I can get some sleep.  Last night I was proud of myself for shutting out the lights by 10pm and getting 8 hours of sleep.

10/10/11 HOUSE UPDATE
Turns out the taxes on the house (photo shown above) were to high for me to quality to buy it, so it's back to square one on looking.   Plus, the owners aren't willing to go down any further then their current listing price, which is far to high for the amount of work that needs to be done here.

a green awakening

Strong is Sexy Fitness Challenge_visit Week6
Saturday. Seeing the positive comes easy to me

Another hum drum lazy dazy just not feeling like getting up kind of morning, but I eventually got up and put on my workout gear.  Although it was many hours later till I actually got out for my run.  We skipped morning coffee with the family so I brewed a cup of french vanilla to help wake me up as I as still struggling to find some energy to get moving.  

About an hour later I started working on the kitchen.  Today I took care of the island's main cabinet and 3 of the drawers.  I washed everything and cleaned the shelves.   I think I'm down to 3 cabinets top shelves which contain some various items that I'm not sure what to do with yet.

A few hours into the afternoon we were called for lunch with the family.  We had roast beef in sauce on a sub roll with homemade mac and cheese.  It was nice to see the crew and chat for a bit before we headed back to the house when I continued to work on the kitchen.  

A few hours later I finally made it out for my run.  I was planning on doing my bodyrock workout afterward, but had a dilemma after a phone cal from my grandmother.  Turns out a ticket I had gotten on 8/26 for a headlight that was out, which then led to a ticket and only 5 days to get that fixed, plus remove the tint of my driver and passenger windows + change my drivers license address.  If I got the verification paperwork done in 5 days I was supposed to avoid a fine, paperwork sent to me states otherwise.  I spent the next hour talking to my grandparents and my mom trying to deescalate.  I"m sure you can image how upset I was, especially with all the fines added up.  

* 2.39 mile run_visit
 

Once I was calmed down I came back in the kitchen to finish cleaning up, then headed upstairs for a shower.  I had a feeling that as soon as I got in the shower the family would call us for dinner, especially since the sun had already set and sure enough they did.  My shower was shortened and I had to do a quck blow dry and we headed over.  We chatted for a while helped clean up the dinner dishes before heading back for bed.

Once I crawled into bed I thought I would check to see if I might be able to access my phone internet and surprising I did.  I took the next hour and a half checking my email and viewing my trulia recommendations based on some of the houses I'm following.  It was slower then my home internet, but still a lot faster then dial up.  Yes, up here in Huntingdon we live in the land of dial up.  I like the email recommendations as it keeps me open to other places that I may not have found.  I found a few I'll review further once I get home if it's not to late when.

YES, THAT IS A GRASSHOPPER ON MY TOOTHBRUSH. AT 3:30AM.   

Sunday. I am amazing, inside and out

This morning was another lazy day and spent most of the day on the couch with my laptop, but I did sneak outside for a little while since I had better internet on my phone.  It was beautiful today and glad I got to enjoy it before it got cold.  My mom had given me two more listings after talking to a listing agent who was selling a house a friend of her's was interested in.  I wasn't able to find much on the listings so I'll check into them later tonight.   also was glad to catch Love Begins a Hallmark Original Movie.  I think an addition of the Love Comes Softly Series, which I very much enjoy. 

CUTE STRAY THAT'S BEEN COMING AROUND. ISN'T HE SO CUTE.   

NICE SHOT OF PUNKIN FROM THE SIDE.   

eats

Very bad this weekend.  I was a snack-a-holic.

saved by the bank

Today I came face to face with a realization that I had not fully laid down my desire for this house as my heart sunk to the floor after viewing the words

status: off market.

I was viewing new listings sent by my realtor and had opened up my trulia icon link (truila and zillow  have been very helpful, because their information is more home-buyer friendly ind typically include more photos), but it's also directly linked to "my favorite: house four" (see journey to my first place) so I stay focused on my dream and why I'm working so hard in the  next 60 days .  However, today was not one of those inspirational days as those 3 ugly words stared right at me as the page loaded, causing me to forget how to breath.

It's hard to remember sometimes, especially when your heart is so set on a dream to truly let it go, because without first laying down your desires God will be unable to fill you with His, which from experience is far better and more satisfying then anything I'd ever imagined.

IMAGE SOURCE  

Once I was able to regroup I called my Realtor to hear it straight from him.  He called me back once he spoke with the listing agent and to my relief, the listing has been temporarily removed for the next 30-60 days.  The owners have chosen to go forward with a full foreclosure now that the price has been lowered significantly.  During this time the bank will take full ownership of the property and will be setting up an appraisal and inspection before re-listing. 

I'm believing that this is God's way of showing me that this house has been reserved for me, because now no one can make an offer while the bank is performing their inspections and appraisals, which leaves plenty of time for me to have everything I need.  You can be sure that I'll still be checking up on the property on a regular basis and as soon as the status has changed I'll be calling my Realtor to write up the contract.   

p.s.

I'm also believing that the bank is going to re-list it at a lower price point.

I'm pretty confident that I'm blessed, because He is the way, the truth and the light of my life and with Him I will walk and not stumble as He leads me down the path of righteousness.

journey to my first place

My life is pretty amazing, considering where my life was just a year and a half ago.  You would never know that I was worried about my financial standing and unable to pay any of my bills.  On April 1, 2009, yep April Fool’s Day, I was let go from my job as an Interior Designer.  This was the start of my transformation journey….

I had moved back to Pennsylvania in January of 2010 after being unemployed for 9 months and finally found employed through a temp agency when I came home to visit in November of 2009.  It was not my first choice to move back here, but every step felt like I was going in the right direction.  After taking this job it became evident that even though I was working I was still unable to catch up on all of my expenses and was determined to find a part time job.  I applied for a total of 3 jobs within a weeks time and was hired for 2 of them.  Yep, after not having any job I now had 3 and even though it meant sacrificing my Saturday's and working almost 60 hours every week I knew it was a blessing and that it would give me freedom in the long run. I made several spreadsheets to track my progress and keep me focused.  Sunday's were my day to rest and re-energize.  Every time I was paid I immediately deposited it and made a check out to the next bill that was on my spreadsheet and before I knew it I had caught up on all my bills and even started paying down my debt.  By having the separate paychecks it made it easy for me to use it for my bills instead of keeping it tucked in my checking account ready for me to spend it on something that wasn't going to move me forward in my goal.  

I am so proud of where I am today and I am so close to being at zero with my debt.  I have 3 cards left all with very little balances.  

CARD ONE
was supposed to be paid off on the 5th, but I keep running into speed bumps.  It was supposed to come out again on the 19th, but it still hasn't debited.  This is my largest card left and I really want it be be ZERO so my credit score will improve so I can benefit from the higher score. 

CARD TWO
is a very tiny balance of $60, which will be paid off next week once T-Mobile finally returns the money they owe me.  

CARD THREE
is a TJ MAXX card that I used to buy a patio set that I am returning  on the 19th.  Hopefully, there will be no complications and I'll receive my full-money back refund and not a store credit.  

So by the end of this month I will have no credit card debt!!!  It's so worth every sacrifice I had to make in the last year just to have the feeling of knowing I am free of this debt and I can finally start enjoying living in today.  It's also been exciting watching my credit score increase thanks to CreditKarma, a free credit score program available for free online.    I joined in July this year and my score was 666. They send you reminder emails every few weeks to update your score and I received one last week.   When I signed on and hit  update score it INCREASED!! I know have a 671 score! It's still Fair, but it's going up and that's all that matters.

the apartment life isn't for me

I had been searching for apartments for several months and was not able to find any place that I truly wanted to call home.  There was one thing or another wrong with each apartment that was such a downer.  The apartment layout was great, but the kitchen was so tiny or the lack of parking, etc.   There wasn't one that really stood out to me, until I saw a for rent sign along Trindle and immediately I pulled over and called the number.  The lady gave me information about the place and that it would be ready for viewing in a week.  My mom was in town and I decided to take her for a drive there so she could see the grounds and location and it was pretty awesome that same night we were able to view the apartment.  The lady seemed very nice, but also very particular.  She was looking for someone who would fit into her little apartment community and was committed to stay there for the long hall as the lease terms were a minimum of 2 years.  It was a beautiful remodeled apartment on the first floor and  was so excited to find something so well laid out, minus the especially small bedrooms.   

We looked at the apartments on Friday and I had been even more excited about the apartments after seeing the interior, however, there was so much paperwork she required that it felt like I was  getting ready to buy a house.  When Sunday came around I had an easy feeling that even though the apartment was lovely, it was not where I was supposed to call home.  Especially, since there were so many uncertainties with us that seemed to unease the landlord and I knew that I would feel anxious and worried about how perfect I would need to be and that wasn't a way I wanted to live.

I fell off my chair:
A few people had mentioned that I should look into buying a house and inside I laughed, because why would someone let me buy a house with how my credit history has been the last few years.  I eventually caved to the idea and posted an inquiry about a Realtor someone recommended on my fb page.  I had a few people who respond and I took the initiative to call the Realtor who then recommended me to a broker  who could pre-qualify me.  I struggled internally when I was talking to the broker, because I so felt like looking into buying was a waste of time my and the brokers time.  However, after gathering all the information he needed to run the number I almost fell of my chair when he told me I pre-qualified for 100k.   I couldn't believe it, who would have thought that I would be allowed to even qualify for any loan amount, but God was showing me His favor.  He knew what I needed to do with me so I could be ready for where He wanted me now.  He took the time to walk me through and light a fire under me and I'm thankful for that.

house hunting:
Since being approved I've been reviewing listings online that my realitor has been sending me and sending him feedback on the one's I liked.

Last Saturday he took me to view a few of my favorite listings.
Adams St: house one

I liked the exterior, kitchen and living area of this house, but the backyard, bedrooms and attack left me thinking how much money needed to go into this place.

Green St: house two

This house was nothing less than exquisite, until you walked outside.  The neighborhood was very dirty and my adjoining neighbors were just o close.  The yard needed a lot of work, which I was fine with that, but the house lacked central air and open parkingand it was already at the top of my budget.

N. 5th St: house three

This house was so adorable and just enough space for two, but after seeing the other larger homes I was leaning more towards a 3 or 4 bedroom.  Though the neighborhood was nicer, it was not enough to make living across from a school with the basketball court and child playground was facing my house.  

my favorite: house four

I will refrain from posting any photos right now, as this is the one I want to make an offer on, but am financially unable to for at least 30 days when I can secure half of my down-payment.  I am very excited about this house as it has a large country kitchen, laminate wood floors in the living and dining room, 4 bedrooms and 1.5 baths.  As a bonus it has a back yard that wont overwhelm me, a large deck to do yoga and have amazing bbq's on, a shed and central air.  This house is at the top of my budget, but it's pretty much move in ready and their aren't any changes I would make, well other than putting in a garage.

At this point I just have to wait and hope that if this house is for me that it will still be available in 30 days and possibly a few thousand less then it is now. 

a medjool morning

workout
Week 1 Saturday

Strong is Sexy Fitness Challenge  
Aw, thank God it's Saturday.  It's been a challenging week and I'm so glad to almost be done with my first week of this challenge.  If you don't count the modifications I needed for some of the exercises I've done an excellent job.  The positive is that I got up and actually completed my workouts even when I wanted to just sleep in.

This morning I was able to take my time & enjoy my morning cup of coffee before starting my workout since I didn't have to be anywhere until noon. I  decided against the Yoga video and opted instead  for an run outdoors.  I did spend sometime before hand filing some of my fitness papers, which needed to be done.  I'm very glad to not have a pile of papers sitting on my floor.

I chose not to eat any breakfast before my run only because I thought I wouldn't have sufficient time for it to digest, but later wished I would have eaten since it was an hour and a half later when I finally got outside.  I felt really nauseous with nothing in my stomach other than a medjool date and could have gone for a pb and banana for breakfast for fuel.  I managed even on an empty stomach to successfully complete 3 miles in only 35.14 and then finished with a 10-minute Power Scult for Women + 5-minute cool down workout by the Biggest Loser 2 dvd.  It was actually pretty intense and my legs were hating me during and after this workout and I felt amazingly proud of myself after finishing.  

IMAGE SOURCE  

Once I hit the showers I realized it was just after 11am and that I needed to put a rush on my primping  if I was going to be in enola by noon.  I was embarking on my first official day of house hunting today (more on that in another post) and we had several places to check out so I didn't want to be late.  

* Yoga Class or download a free 20 minute Vinyasa Yoga session.

Alternatively,
* 20 minutes of sun salutations + favorite yoga or stretching poses.
* 10 minute jumping session on a mini trampoline or a 10 minute min fast walk.

view daily workout

daily affirmation
With each passing day, I am stronger, fitter and sexier!

daily review:
* read Scale Down ch. 0 pg 00-00 (00 minutes)
* Tomorrow's Workout: Active Rest Day
* in bed by 10pm and lights out by 10:30pm
* repeated the daily affirmations throughout the day
* noted my workouts and meals in my journal
* eats were on target until meal #4.

eats:
View Daily Eats

running around town

This week has been pretty long and crazy once Tuesday night hit. I had dropped my phone and spent 4 hours at Best Buy trying to get a temporary phone until my replacement arrives. I'm not looking forward to being without my phone for over a week, especially since it's more than just my phone. It's my portal to so many things and life was far simpler when I didn't have a droid phone.

I was pretty much home late every night this week, except Thursday so I didn't have much time or energy to put anything away so my room was looking pretty disastrous. Though I did have a fun night out with the girls and even made it out hiking with one of my meet-up groups and made some new friends.

My 2nd job is now back up and running with extra hours and so I worked this weekend and have several days next week already on the calendar. This is going to be a huge help in saving for my future house.

I still feel like I'm flying on a cloud when I think about being approved to buy a house. This week it's become more of a realization after my Realtor sent me several listings to review. I'm getting a little closer to owning my own house.   Though I am trying to remember that their is far more responsibility in owning a house then renting and keep praying that I'm moving in the right direction. 

planned weekly eats
breakfast: bagel w pb + chia seeds + strawberries
snacks: cereal + soy milk
lunch:   Cucumber & Sprouted Sandwich w tomato soup

snack: Chia Pudding

dinner: Quinoa Summer Salad

workout
 I did not workout today, but will be posting a new routine Monday I'll be working on.

weekend adventure

It seems like it was only a few hours ago that I rolled out of bed, but it’s almost 8:30 in the evening,  How did a day that started out so slow end so fast?

My alarm went off at 7:30 this morning, but I refused to get up and hit the alarm several times before finally rolling out of bed shortly after 8.  Once I had my morning coffee I was awake enough to begin my laundry.  It made things easier since all my laundry fit into one load.  After breakfast, English muffin with plain Greek yogurt, honey and sliced strawberries, I hung a few things on the cloths line and put the rest in the dryer. 

The plan was to be at my friend Andrew's by 9:15, which gave me enough time to stop by city island to make sure no one was waiting there to carpool for the hike, but it ended up being the time I left the house causing a bit of delay to the schedule.  I arrived at 10:35 and was greeted by one of his roommates who said neither Andrew nor Dave were there.  I called Andrew to find out where he was at, especially since I talked to them just two days ago and said I would be here at 10:30 to pick him and Dave up.  He vaguely remembered me saying that a few minutes later and apologized for not calling to tell me they had decided to go kayaking.  He did say they were thinking about going hiking tomorrow and if I as up for it I could join them.  It hurt knowing that he forgot and also because it meant he wasn't looking forward to hanging out with me as I was with him.   He's one of my only healthy lifestyle guys who actually enjoys doing things outside with me and it's been a month if not longer since our schedules have worked out for some hang time.

I decided even though I was going to be late to make a pit stop at city island.  I didn't want anyone there waiting and I was relieved to see non one so I followed the sign to hw22, but it felt like I was being led int the wrong direction, which then only frustrated me.  I finally arrived to the hiking location apologizing because I was 30 minutes late.   At least the girls were there and we ended up having a really great time.  Jen is a new member of my Fit Foodies Group and and Janean has been a regular since we started in May.  It’s nice to finally have some of the new members come to the events and seeing how the group is starting to bloom.  Jen was really cool and I’m glad I had an opportunity to get to know her today.  It was a very fun and challenging hike and we ended  up missing a few blue marker and found our way onto the white, and pink trails.  The bugs were out in high numbers today and it felt like they all had their eyes on us.   I even had a big spider land on my hand; yes I jumped and screamed like a girl trying to fling it off.  I'm sure it was a funny scene. 

We had several conversations of topic we discussed during our hiking adventure from Yoga, work and the group.  Jen talked about some ideas for group events and it made me smile to hear the same ideas that drew me to start the group.

After the hike I headed home and began packing for my house sitting adventure.  A friend is heading out of town for a few days and I’m watching her dog for her.  If you don’t count her eating my bagel out of my grocery bag the dog has been very well behaved.  I’ve already started settling in and even cooked tonight surprise-surprise, especially since I just haven’t been in the cooking mood.   I made 3 batches of Oatterific Banana Scramble,which I’ll have for breakfast on an English muffin with plain Greek yogurt and strawberries.  Yes, I actually put together a meal plan for the week and I’m pretty excited about it.  Hopefully, some time tomorrow I’ll make the Tenley Salad.

It’s now closer to 10 and I made sure to take the dog out one more time and came back to finish the post and now my eyes are telling me it’s time for bed.

What type of adventure did you guys have this weekend?  Did you try any fun or delicious recipes?

upcoming fit foodies events:

1) Panera Bread gathering.  I’ll be offering 3 dates, most likely the week of August 8th.  A Monday, Wednesday and Sunday to see what date is better for everyone so we can get together and discuss ideas and give suggestions for events and to see what people feel about the option below.

2) We are hoping to have an ongoing meet-up either weekly, bi-weekly or monthly depending on the availability and want for those who are interested.  The purpose as Jen put it would be like a Weight Watchers meeting without the public weighing.  A place where we can encourage each other on staying fit and healthy.  Hopefully, others will like the idea and we can host it at a different person's house each meet-up.  We would also bring ingredients for a meal that we will prepare and share that night.  I suggested using Toneitups.com Tenley Salad which also has a side of Asparagus.  There are enough equally priced items in the recipe that everyone could bring them and not be overwhelmed with the cost of the meal and its home cooked and qualifies as a love me recipe.

planned weekly eats
breakfast: Oatterific Banana Scramble w english muffin

snacks: chobani plain yogurt w granola + blueberries
lunch:  Tenley Salad w asparagus
snack: pita chips and mango salsa
dinner: can't remember, will add later

strong and sexy challenge
I also came across a 4-week workout challenge called Strong and Sexy by Casey Lorraine.  I'm going to look more into to it and maybe join for a week or two just for something new.  She has a mantra for you to say everyday of each week during the challenge and assigns a bodyrock workout or a rest day (or other workout) for you to complete for the day. 

ready, set, goal

It still seems unreal how things are unfolding in my life. It was only last week I was wondering if buying a house was even an option for me and now I'm super excited to say IT IS! Just Tuesday a friend recommended a real estate agent, who then referred me to a broker who worked his magic. I almost fell off my seat when he told me I was pre-qualified for a 100k.  I know it's not much, but it's all I need for what I'm looking for.  I'm not looking for a family home, just a 2 bedroom with all the modern features. and it's more then I thought I would qualify for.  I  don't much a year, especially working for a non-profit then tack on my student loans and credit card debt and I thought for sure I wouldn't be able to qualify for anything especially on my own. Luckily, I've been paying down my debt, which in turn has been creating a better credit report/score (now 666), which has definitely been a huge benefit. God knows your path even when you don't. I would never have qualified if I hadn't paid off as I did this last year.

The broker gave me 2 requirements before I can actually buy a home.
1) pay down all my credit cards to $0 and DO NOT close them.
2) have 3% in cash, whether by gift or savings

After paying a few bills and zeroing out 2 credit cards with my tax return I still had some left over, which I decided to use as a buffer, since my evening job wasn't producing any hours.  When we began searching for an apartment I knew it would come in handy for a security deposit.  Then when my mom and I started talking about buying she felt it would be best used for part of the down payment.  I had in mind what I wanted to do, but wanted to see what my broker felt would be the best way to use my savings.  He advised me to zero out my cards now that way while I'm saving for my down payment my credit report/score can be repairing itself.  He strongly advised me NOT TO CLOSE my cards, as it would hurt my score.  I took his advise and used the $800 I had left over to pay off  my larger and older cards and what I had left over I used to make a payment on my newer ones (see table below).  Once our hours begin up again in August I'll be  working extra hard to raise enough money in the next few months for my down payment and selling a few things to help add up the balance. 

I'm so proud of the progress I've made only in the span of 1 day and it's so beautiful to finally see my lasik balance zero'd out and eliminate the $40 a month I was paying the consolidation company that I can now put in my own pocket.   Here is my current progress and the pay down date I have scheduled.

card	balance	payment	new balance	date of payment
best buy	$181.44	$181.44	$0	08/01/11
bill me later	$120.36	$60	$60.36	07/28/11
TJ Maxx	$133.53	$0	$133.53	-
lasik	$715.21	$715.21	$0	08/02/11
totals	$1150.54	$956.65	$193.89

My TJ Maxx card I sadly just got.  I saw a patio set there that I sooo wanted and it would have been perfect for the apartment we were looking at off Trindle, but now that I'm looking at buying I'm most likely going to just return it.  Though depending on how many hours I can get I may just pay if off and keep it.  Still undecided on that one.  I'll try to post a pick soon so you can understand why.

a plan not my own

I feel disheartened, but I know that things are lining up with God.  Today I found out that an apartment that made me feel alive, like I knew there was no other place for me was rented out before I was able to turn in my application.  

(the apartment via googlemaps w the cars blacked out)

I had the opportunity to view the apartment on Friday with my mom, and I was even more excited when I saw the interior and how beautiful and perfect it was.  I was even  more delighted when she gave me an application, but there were so many papers to fill out and requirements that I felt like I was buying a house.  I understand and respect her desire to fill the occupancy with a tenant who fits in with her current tenants., but I felt like the expectation level on me would have been unattainable and I would constantly be on my guard not to mess up and I knew that was no way to live.   

After taking a few days to think about the commitment and gathering all the paperwork I felt at peace knowing that this was not a direction I was going to be taking.  I love how God slowly changes your heart  to accept plans that are not your own even when only a few days have past.  He's amazing that way.  He has  directed me in a slightly different direction that I'm loving and  truly feel at peace with and I can't wait to see what else  He opens my heart to in this adventure called my life. 

(the cute little cottage in camp hill)

Last week I saw a yellow cottage in Camp Hill that I thought was adorable and since hen I've seen 2 other places that I would consider buying and are even less than the cottage and include hardwood floors..  I'm not sure with my income bracket and my credit history (even thought it's improved) that  buying a house would  be a viable option, but at least I'm taking a chance to find out.  I've never been so at peace then I do now about buying a place.

yoga brain

This weekend has been so crazy and I spent most of yesterday running around, then once I finished made it to church and Texas Road House afterward with some friends.  Today I slept in, which was so nice, and once I was ready I headed to the shed to clean out.  I really needed to go through everything and make a new list of items I have in the shed so today was the day I took the bull by the horns and cleaned house.  I was surprised at how much I actaully was able to take out and get cleaned up for our yardsale.  I even managed to pick a few things from my room to add to the pile.

It took longer than it should, but it was super hot outside and once I came inside to clean up my things and price everything I turned on the TV, which slowed me down a bit and I stopped while drop dead diva came on at 9pm.  My room is still in a small chaotic mess, but hopefully it will look better shortly.

After my show ended I worked on my meal plan for the week.  I wont be able to do much for tomorrow, but I'll have to head for groceries tomorrow.  I'm trying to keep from having to cook to much, just because it's been so hot and I really haven't felt like cooking. 

planned weekly eats
breakfast: banana + honey smoothie 
snacks: peanut butter & banana
lunch:  Turkey, Pear Sandwich w cherry tomatoes
post workout: tone it up protein pancakes
snack: protein bar + carrots
dinner: tbd

yoga brain

I've been wanting to do Yoga lately, but just haven't had the funds to enjoy the studio I prefer and after reading a post from Heather Eats Almond Butter I was reminded to do a google search for other options in my area; as well as some other short workouts to add to my running workout.  One of the studios offers a free class Sunday's at 11am {tips}, so I hope to be able to attend that class soon.

20 minute level 1-2 Yoga Class Podcast
Drop and Give me 10
Konkura
Just Plain yoga
be fit yoga

week 4 basic schedule
Monday: Tuesday: Wednesday: Thursday: Friday: Saturday: Sunday:	Evening Walk 2.25 mile Run 30-60 minute walk/run or rest 1.5mile run Rest 2.25 mile Run 45-60 min walk

the slug bug

The last few day's my energy level has reached a low point and I really don't like it.  I have added so many things onto my plate and then I have a few things coming up with family that I need to reschedule other events.  It's just going to be a crazy month of figuring things out and really seeing what I want to do.  I'll be doing a lot of processing, and none of it is going to be easy.  I know I already feel like my head is ready to explode.  I'll be happy once these things are done and I've had some time to make the right decision.

Working on this now was to allow enough time to make an informed and educated decision and not be forced to make a pressured decision I will regret.  Though I think because I'm already feeling a little pressure I'm going to need to step back, because I'm in no hurry and I shouldn't feel like I have to be.

My family is having a yard sale next weekend, which I'm so not ready for and then my dad is having gull stone surgary on the 14th and he and his wife and her kids will be moving to their new place, which I offered to help out since my dad wont be able to help out.

I was excited yesterday when I was out and about and found a really cute 3-drawer shabby chic dresser with art nouveau style mirror and all for FREE.  The base and structure are in good condition, but the paint needs to be refinished.  I'm really not a crafty person, nor have I ever stripped paint, but I'm looking forward to turning this into a really cute dressing table.  I'll use the bottom two drawers for my unmentionables and then the top drawer will contain my makeup, flat iron and other primping items that I don't really have room for in the bathroom.

the week +next weeks plan
* downsize
* go through shed and purge
* purge files
* clear out items in my bedroom that I'm not using
* create a sale sign for my dresser and IKEA couch
* post dresser and IKEA couch on craigslist.
* buy paint remover
* take photo of new/used dresser
* buy pretty yellow paint + a paint brush
* plan a better meal plan

sunny side down

I've just had such a crazy week and yesterday didn't slow down either and with an unhappy tummy from all the crap I ate yesterday is adding to my sluggish feeling today and the lack of desire to do anything.  I do plan on kicking my butt out the door and running at least 2 miles today so I can get some fresh air.  Part of me wants to hit city island, but I'm not sure I want to drive all the way over there since I'm in a hidden part of Harrisburg this week.  I still have access to the gym until the 11th, so I could head there and shower afterward, but not sure if I want to drag all my showering and primping gear with me either. 

I've just been chilling solo today, which is nice, but have to gather supplies from the house so I can make no-knead bread, oatmeal bars and  protein pancakes this week.  It will be nice to use the stove and oven without feeling like my every move is being watched.  I love my roommates, but I don't have much freedom or privacy there.  We are getting along right now, but I've also not been home a lot for us to find things to fight about.  I'm really hoping that by next summer I'll be in a better financial place to be on my own.

todays plan
* stop by house for baking supplies
* run 2 miles
* shower
* finish caparison chart
* drop off rent
* pick up Sunday paper for coupons
* process everything from yesterday {though that could take another week}

Just thinking about my finances right now makes me feel like I'm stuck in a black hole, even thought I've made significant strides since moving back to Pennsylvania a year and a half ago.  I just wish I didn't have so much college debt ahead of me; that's really the part that makes me feel like I'm in a black hole.  I know it's only going to get worse as the years pass and my minimum payment increases, yes my yearly incomes will still be the same.   It's hard only making 25k gross a year, but I love my job so I don't want to leave, but I really do need to make more money so I can pay off my student loans.  I just have to keep pushing forward and working hard and I know God will continue to bless the way.  He knew things would be better for me out here, and even though I didn't want to admit that coming back home would be a benefit for me....He was right.  I would never have made such progress in my finances without coming back home.

running around town

It's been such a crazy week for me and I'm enjoying just being able to relax tonight.  I've been running around trying to get so much done and organized so I can make more informed decisions.  It's really nice having things laid out on paper and you can really determine the better option.  I'm also enjoying being able to play on my laptop now that it's fixed!  I can't believe how long I let it go, but I'm glad my friend was able to fix it and at a happy price.

I still have so much still to do; here's a few things I can think of:
* plan meals for the week
* ingredients for oatmeal bar and no-knead bread
* plan out running schedule for next week
* figure out what to do with all the kiwi I have
* cut up the half a watermelon sitting in my fridge
* go through my coupons from last Sunday's paper and file them
* coordinate coupons with stores sales
* read: running world mag (july); muscle and fitness her's (july/aug) & eating clean mag (april/may)
* post about two magazine's I read last month, but didn't buy, but wanted to share a few things I saw.
* get some sleep

I did stop at the store tonight and picked up some eggs (coupon), milk (coupon) and kashi cereal.  I wanted to just pick up some basics since I'm not at home for the next week.  I'm trying not to move everything I use in the kitchen while I'm house-sitting, but I really want to.  It's only 10 days, I can live without some things for that long, especially since I'll be roommate free.  Though I need to stop by the apartment and grab some pillow, the watermelon and my flour to make the bread + Sunday's coupons from the paper.

fit n' the summer (m1-d11)

Wednesday  eats
breakfast: coffee + (2) Ezkiel toast, pb, strawberries+ soy milk
snack #1: frosted fiber one mini wheats + soy milk + cashews + blueberries
lunch: pb&j on ezkiel bread, flaxseed + soy milk + 1/2 pear
snack #2: blueberry bagel, pb, chia seeds, flaxseed
dinner:1 tbd

workout

rest day

tomorrow I will need to get up early so I can workout in the morning and then Friday I will run after my 5:30 appointment in Camp Hill.  

I should have gone for a walk this morning since my evening is completely booked, but I still needed to pack for my week away.  My roomies will have the run of the house and I'll be off to the east shore (Harrisburg) for the next 10 days house sitting for a friend.  It's going to be nice to have my own kitchen!!!  I'm planning on making oatmeal squares and homemade bread....so excited!!

The plan tonight is to finally...finally pick up my shoes at the Inside Track in Mechanicsburg right after an appointment in Camp Hill.  Then I'll be off to a friends 31 party.  They have the cutest purses and I can't wait to see what the new collection.

I'm also super excited that my laptop is finally fixed.  A friend of mine who works in the computer industry took it and figured out the problem and he said the error messages are gone and the programs I couldn't are running smooth.  I can't pick it up until Thursday, but I so can't wait.  It will be so nice to be able to use it after it being down and out for the last 2ish months after getting a nasty virus in it.

fit n' the summer (m1-d9+d10)

Monday  eats
breakfast: coffee +
snack #1: chocolate protein shake + apple
lunch: chicken, black beans, red leaf lettuce, walnuts, salsa, cucumber, wrap + grapes + 4 cherries
snack #2: frosted fiber one mini wheats + soy milk + sliced almonds + 1/2 apple
dinner:1 slice cheese pizza
snack #3: Soy milk + pb fudge

workout

rest day

Nothing to crazy today just a basic visit to my chiropractor after work and then headed to a friends.  I was getting tired and made my way home around 8pm.  I was hoping to stop at the Inside Track before they closed at 8pm, but I'll have to try later on this week.  Hopefully, they will still have my shoes as they've been there for about two weeks now.  I feel really bad, but I just haven't been able to get there.

When I pulled in the driveway I realized I was missing the Bachelorette (Ashley).  Not my usual show, but I'll watch it with my grandmother and we talk about what's going on as this is one of her favorite shows.  She typically gets really into them and even jots down every name and a little bio and then crosses them off when they're eliminated.  I'm more of a Pushing Daisies and Drop Dead Diva kind of gal.  I've seen most of the shows this season, but missed the last two.  Mainly, because I forgot about the show and was having to much fun hanging with my friends.  As each episode unfolds you can really see how fragile Ashley is and so how not ready she is for this show.  She's so emotionally unstable and flips so easily.  Plus, I really dislike how easily she fell for Bentley.  He's such a ...., and he never should have been on the show.  I'm sure she feels really stupid now that the show's airing and she can see how he really felt about her.  This season William caught my eye so I was more interested in seeing how he played the game.  I also liked Mickey, the cook from NY and was glad to see him take the initiative to leave on episode 6.  If she was that invested in Bentley, and that's truly what she was looking for then Mickey is not for her.  He seems like a really great guy and she is so far out of his league and I hope he finds someone who is stable and will appreciate all he has to offer.

Tuesday  eats
pre-run: 1 medjool date + tb pb +
post-run: vanilla protein shake + coffee + apple
snack #1: frosted fiber one mini wheats + soy milk + cashews + raisins
lunch: red leaf lettuce, black beans, walnuts, salsa, cucumber, onion, wrap + steamed asparagus
snack #2:coffee, soy milk, sweet n low + activia blueberry yogurt + 7 baby carrots
dinner:1 tbd
snack #3:

workout

Morning Run: go
1.45 miles {10:01 avg pace} + 186 calories burned {14.30 minutes}

I was so tempted to consider today another rest day, especially since I will be working from 8:30am - 9pm.  ugh!  but I need the hours so I'm going to suck it up and work.  It would be great to only need to work 40 hours a week, but when you work for a non-profit that's just not possible if you want to keep a float when you have student loans.  Once I finally talked myself out of bed it seemed to take forever to finally get run ready and begin my run.  I didn't feel like running around the track today so I made a detour through the retirement apartments and around the HS parking lot.  I was surprised to make it to work on time, especially since I didn't hit the showers until ten after seven and I even had time to straighten my hair and paint my face.  I love days like that.   

I was excited to see Portland Oregon as the 4th healthiest city in the US according to SHAPE.COM.  Portland is one of the cities I want to move to in the next 5 years.  It even beat out Denver, (5) Virginia (9) and California (6).  Minneapolis took first, then Washington DC and Boston 3rd.    I'm alittle surprised to have seen Minneapolis take first.

Here's what they have to say:

Portland has experienced double-digit population growth for the past few decades, in no small part because of its bucolic surroundings and laid-back attitude. A high ratio of parks to residents, as well as easy access to both mountains and coast, make the area a hub for outdoor fun, from windsurfing to snowboarding (even in the summer!). 

Fit Stop: Cyclocross
A growing number of local women are trying cyclocross—a mix of cycling, running, and a whole lot of mud. Hotspots to practice your skills are Pier Park in N

fit n' the summer (m1-d7+d8)

Saturday  eats
breakfast: coffee + oatmeal with water, soy milk, 1/2 banana mashed, 4 strawberries
snack #1: banana + almond butter
lunch: 1/2 Mediterranean veggie sandwich from Panera + an apple + 1/2 pink Gatorade
snack #2: apple
dinner:2 slice veggie pizza + green Gatorade
snack #3: Soy milk + pb fudge

After my crazy workout Friday I decided that sleeping in and taking a rest day would be a good idea for Saturday.  I'm really glad I did, because I don't think I would have made it otherwise with all the running around I did on Saturday.  I was up by 7am, finished two loads of laundry and was out the door by 9:45am and didn't get home until close to 11pm.  There was so much to do and still more to work on next Saturday.  Though at some point very soon I need to go through my things in the shed and see what I can add to our yardsale.

workout

rest day

Sunday  eats 

breakfast: coffee + oatmeal with water, 4 strawberries + 2 egg whites & 1 egg scrambled 

snack #1: trail mix snack bar
lunch/pre-run: trail mix (pecans+raisin+almonds) + medjool date + apple
post run: chocolate protein shake + 1/2 banana
dinner: 2 waffles (van's omega 3 + flax) + pear + strawberries + sugar free syrup
snack #3: Soy milk + pb fudge

I woke up Sunday morning and made a yummy breakfast, well tried to at least.  Our microwave stopped working about a minute into my oatmeal so I had to postpone breakfast for about an hour until we could figure out the problem.  Turns out the wires connected to the A/C receptacle burned out causing the other receptacles connected to that circuit to stop working.  With all the drama it added extra time to get ready and I arrived at church a little late, but lately that's just normal for me so I wasn't to worried about that.  At least I was there.

After church I chatted with some friends and then closer to 1pm changed into my hiking outfit.  I had 3 other RSVP's for the hike, but only one showed up and I didn't hear from the rest.  I did hear from one of the girls, but not until Sunday when I got an email from her wondering why no one was there.  I felt bad, but I did send out an email Friday before I left work telling everyone the meet up point and included my cell.  

The hike was a lot of fun.  We headed to Boyd Big Tree Reserves in Harrisburg.  It has 4 trails, Green (super easy 1 mile), pink (which turned into green), white (going to try next time) and red (hardest - up hill).  We kept good conversation and ended up laughing so hard that we cried on the way home.  We started and it was really hard to stop.  I think passing cars were wondering if we were high.  Let me reassure we were not, but man it felt like we were; though I've never been so I can't be 100% sure on that.

We completed a 2.7 mile hike and afterward I decided to go for a run so I made my way to city island.  I began at the bridge and ran all the way to Kelker and back to the split at the Garden  where I began the fitbook bootcamp {minus the resistance bands and the wall sits.  Then I walked back to my car and then headed to the gym for some sauna time and a shower.



workout

Hike: 2.7 miles + 341 calories burned go
Run: 1.96 miles {10:08 avg pace} + 273 calories burned go
Walk: 1.00 mile {19:42 avg pace} + 100 calories burned go

weigh in:
150LBs {150LB block}

life smells good

Things have been coming up Roses for me this last week and I’m loving every minute of it.  It’s a combination of the new (gently used) cloths I bought last week from the thrifty store, the financial goodness, less stress, great hair days and staying true to my clean eating.  This is a very happy combination for me and it’s sparked a super confidence in me.  I feel super amazing, like I’m a model on the cover of Vogue Magazine.   That’s right I feel pretty & Strong!  You should have seen my arms this morning while I was doing my upper body workout.  They looked pretty ripped while I was doing my Triceps Kickbacks and Alternate Hammer Curls and I’m pretty sure a few of the guys were checking me out.  My outfit helped to, felt super confident in that.  It’s a new combination that I put together with a yellow a-tee that I used for another shirt that I added to a black sleeveless top so I had some color to my all black outfit.  I need color in my outfits.  I can’t stand wearing all back-so not me.   

This past week I’ve been doing well with my diet and even lost 2” in the last month.  After logging in a few meals, I realized how much I was really eating, about 1800 calories and that’s too much to lose anything.   This week I adjusted my meals so I’m eating differently on my weight training days and cardio-rest days so I’m not over eating on my lower intensity days.

I had an unspoken goal last week of walking every night along Riverside Park and I was glad when a friend of mine wanted to walk with me.  It gave us some time to hang out and catch up, plus he’s super close to the park so we can just walk from his place.  I really love having friends who want to get out and be active and I really hope at least during the summer they continue with that desire.  This week were getting together to workout outside twice a week.  He has a book he’s used before with some body strength workouts and then we’ll cool down with a walk.   I’m also going to keep my ears open to see if anyone wants to join us or workout with him on days when I’m not able.  I’m looking forward to it and it will be a nice change from my current workout.  Plus, I feel that I get better results working out at night so I should see a little more definition change.

I'm even excited about my new bathing suit.  I found a totally cute bikini halter top, but needed a bottom and when I was at TJ MAXX yesterday hoping to find bottoms to match I found a super cute green Roxxy Bikini that I can't wait to wear. 

The Suit from TJ MAXX is similar to this style, except mine is all green, instead of MEXICO on the butt it says ROXY and the Top also has a Roxy logo on it.  The bikini to the right is the one I bought trying to find a bottom to.  I'm much happier and feel far cuter in the ROXY suit. 

Project: Food Budget - Week Five

Actual: $19.86 (Giant)
Actual: $8.77 (Target)

Actual: $8.24 (Weis)

I've been more diligent on going through my coupons this week and trying to make sure I plan for foods that I can use the coupon for.  I still need work better on using items in my pantry.  I used a few things, but I really just don't have a lot in their to use to plan the majority of my meals from.  I was also thankful that my mom came into town and brought me all kinds of goodies (food + cloths).  I was still way under my budget, but was hoping to spend even less then I did since my mom having a ton of food that was already on my shopping list.

Meal Plan:  (will add later)
* Breakfast


* Post-Workout

* 10am Post-Workout Meal

* 1pm Snack
  
* 4pm Snack

* 7pm Dinner


Staples Purchased: (will add later)

Project: Food Budget
Read about Project: Food Budget challenge.

Please check out these wonderful blogs, and give them support as they take on this challenge.
Participating blogs:
    

Veggie Converter

Dairy-Free Cooking

Veggie Burgher

The Happy Cactus

Test Kitchen Tuesday

Newly Vegan

Veggie on the Cheap

MeloMeals: Vegan For $3.33 A Day

The Veggie Life

Caroline Cain Holistic Health

Going Veggie

Under The Apple Tree

Be the Change

super coupon

image source

I started watching the extreme couponing show and I've really been inspired to try and begin to use them.  I never used them in the past, because they never had anything that I bought, but I've come to the conclusion that I can't be picky on everything if I want to save money.   Especially, with things being so tight and not having any hours in my evening job right now.

So far I've collected a few papers and have began the process of cutting and sorting my coupons and have a few adjustments to the binder I am temporary using.  I'm keeping my eye out for a pretty+functional zipper binder that I can store everything in. Last week I was able to use 2 coupons for some yogurt so hopefully as I learn more about this I will be able to save more and elimate a few stores with my price comparison guide.  Yep, I've started going to the grocers and pricing just about everything i buy and comparing the base price to each store so I know NOT where to buy the product.  This is like the invisible coupon, because by buying it at a store I will already be near or heading to makes more sense, especially if I'm saving anywhere from $.20 to $2.00 each item.  I have a pretty hefty list and so far I've priced out Target, Wegmans and Weis and am working on Giant.  once I get those figured out I'll be checking out Walgreens and Rite Aid to see how they price on toiletries and beauty products.  I'm only adding those, because a few people say they have better luck there with those products and they typically have lots of sales and coupons to use.

so far I've learned:
* Weis has better pricing on their produce and pb and eggs
* Weis is not good with , Organic-Whole Foods, espeically Silk Milk
* Target is the lowest at $3.09 for Silk Milk.
* Weis carries sugar free syrup at a good price.
* Target is lower then Weis on Toiletries

Since sales come and go about every 3-4 months I'm looking at only buying 1 or 2 of each item since I'm only needing these for me, unless it's free and it's a product I really like and then I'll try to get more.  I don't really have space to store things, so I don't want to have tons of papers or extra things lying around my small space.

smells like a healthy choice

I had an itch to go running today, especially with it being such a beautiful day that I couldn't help even at the evening hour of 7:30 driving to city island so I could run along riverfront Park.  I couldn't help but smile when I came across the entry sign that greeted me with "Free Parking Today! Have a Great Day!."  There were so many people there, so I hoped that this was a good sign that the weather would hold up.

I didn't want to go to far, especially since I had already gone to the gym this morning, so I set my run keeper and decided that I would only do 2 miles as I made my way toward the bridge. 

I surprisingly followed my plan in which turned out to be a great way to see some of my friends as on my way back to the park I was surprised to see a friend of mine walking toward me.  He and his roomie were just heading out for a nice evening walk. We chatted for a few and then went on our way.

image source

I ran for most of the trail, but did take some time to just walk and catch my breath.  I'm really trying to get myself outside to run so I can work up my endurance, because it's just not the same when your running on the treadmill.  I would love to work up to my 10 mile goal this year and know I've really worked for it, but challenging myself with running outside.

I was glad to see the bridge and knew that I was almost to my 2 mile mark.  I stopped at the bottom of the stairs to stretch my calves, especially since they were feeling a little tight and then headed toward my car where I finished my stretches.  Halfway through my stretches a runner passes by and it was someone I knew.  I love the fact that I decided to go out running late and still managed to see my friends also making the decision to make healthy choices.  It really does make my heart happy.  Once my friend stopped at his car to grab his post-workout drink he made his way over where we chatted for a good while about running and our other social actives.

It was a very fantastic night and I'm super dupper glad that I decided to run tonight and I even ran into two more friends when I stopped at the gym to clean up.