So I'm not sure if it was a comment on my last post or something else but I was able to work around the malware warnings and delete this post so hopefully there won't be anymore problems!! So sorry for the inconvenience!!! The post minus comment or picture or whatever caused the problem is as follows!:
Over the summer, I was seriously considering whether or not I should attend Texas Tech University; not debating the university, but whether I should continue my education at all.
The more I thought about it, the more confused I became. Spencer and I both firmly believe that I need to stay at home once the children come, taking care of them and the house. However, until they come, I need to work. I felt really ... small... because of my lack of aspirations. We also feel that, once the children are either all in school, or later graduated from school, if I need to work the requirement in the future will no longer be (generally) an Associates, but a Bachelors.
Once we came to this conclusion, I was bothered because I feel like getting a Bachelors in Exercise and Sports Science (ESS) seemed unnecessary for the particular field I wanted to go in. I was feeling very discouraged and confused. We prayed about it frequently. I didn't want to pay $16,000 for a degree I might use in the future.
Then, the last few weeks of the summer, several things happened. I found out that I had received two grants, paying for over half of each semester for the next two semesters, making my tuition less than what I paid at the local community college. Money was no longer the issue, so we decided to ponder degree options.
After more praying, and self-assessment with Spencer, we decided I should go into Psychology. I'd like to be a school counselor, but a part of me would love to be some sort of therapist, (psychotherapist), counselor, or psychologist.
Now, I feel like I'm doing what the Lord wants me to do. I'm not entirely sure where I am headed yet, but I know it's in the right direction, and I'm so thankful for His help. I know I'm doing what he wants me to because of the experiences I've had in my classes. I'm taking Psychology and Religion, and nearly every day I just want to stand up and shout, "But I DO KNOW the TRUTH!!! I can share it with you ALL if you just listen!!! You don't have to wonder anymore!!!". In my Introduction to Counseling and Psychotherapy class, one of the first things we did was make a list of things needed for an effective therapist. I felt like I was making the list of my strong suits, of the gifts that the Lord has given me.
I know I've made the right decision. It such an overwhelmingly comforting feeling to finally feel like I'm where I'm supposed to be doing what I'm supposed to be doing, regarding school and possible future careers. I guess this was just my way of A) Letting family and friends know what's going on with me and B) Showing my gratitude and appreciation to the Lord for guiding me, and sharing my testimony that the Lord may not answer your prayers immediately, or even in the way you think, but that He WILL.
Saturday, March 3, 2012
Monday, December 5, 2011
Let it Snow!
So my family has a blog called Word Joust where we play word games made up by the players. It's a lot of fun! The winner of the game comes up with the next one. It was my turn to come up with a game. On occasion, a picture will be put up to help illustrate the game or to add festivity and fun to it. The one I found was too funny not to share here as well!
Maybe it's the Evans blood? :)
Maybe it's the Evans blood? :)
Happy Holidays everyone!!! Those in Lubbock, enjoy the snow!! I hope to be able to post about the Christmas season later! I have a few craft ideas in mind that I may take pictures of and post. I just need to get myself a sewing machine first! If you have any ideas or suggestions, please share! I'm still at the beginning stages of all of my Christmas Creations!!! :)
Friday, September 2, 2011
Far Too Long
It's been way too long since my last post!
I would love to take some pictures of our new apartment and put them up! Right now I plan on doing it, but I may very well get lazy and not do it. However, as of now, stay posted!!
I started my junior year at Texas Tech University. It's been crazy, crazy stressful, but I know it'll get better with time. I am going for my Bachelor's in Psychology. I also feel like I'm getting CAPITAL LETTER -happy in this post lol.
The latest news: Spencer mis-stepped going down some steep stairs at the leisure pool and broke a bone in his foot. For you medically inclined, he has a fracture in his 5th metatarsal (the small bone behind his pinky toe.) Nothing is out of place, so there was nothing they could do about it, but they gave him a boot to make walking a little easier on his ankle, which has been nice.
On my part, I was having really bad chest pains whenever I breathed too deeply or exerted myself. I went to the get it checked out, after having ruled out heart burn, and I was diagnosed with Pleurisy. Basically, the lining around my lungs and chest is inflamed. I had to have a blood test, an x-ray, and an EKG done today. I went to the Student Wellness Center at Tech. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THE STUDENT WELLNESS CENTER if you are a student at Tech!! I had the best medical service and experience I have ever had. I don't even have health insurance, which worried me, and yet I walked out only paying $65 for the visit AND all the tests/x-rays.
Both of our problems can be resolved with the right amount of ibuprofen and time, thankfully! I feel really blessed that Spencer's foot wasn't more severely injured and that my chest pains weren't more severe than they are.
I could go on longer, telling about my classes (I'm taking a Psychology and Religion class that is interesting) but I don't have a lot more time. In short, the other thing I want to share is we have both involved ourselves at Tech. Spencer was accepted into a Photography internship, and I joined the Celtic Ensemble! lol This will be an interesting semester.
I would love to take some pictures of our new apartment and put them up! Right now I plan on doing it, but I may very well get lazy and not do it. However, as of now, stay posted!!
I started my junior year at Texas Tech University. It's been crazy, crazy stressful, but I know it'll get better with time. I am going for my Bachelor's in Psychology. I also feel like I'm getting CAPITAL LETTER -happy in this post lol.
The latest news: Spencer mis-stepped going down some steep stairs at the leisure pool and broke a bone in his foot. For you medically inclined, he has a fracture in his 5th metatarsal (the small bone behind his pinky toe.) Nothing is out of place, so there was nothing they could do about it, but they gave him a boot to make walking a little easier on his ankle, which has been nice.
On my part, I was having really bad chest pains whenever I breathed too deeply or exerted myself. I went to the get it checked out, after having ruled out heart burn, and I was diagnosed with Pleurisy. Basically, the lining around my lungs and chest is inflamed. I had to have a blood test, an x-ray, and an EKG done today. I went to the Student Wellness Center at Tech. I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THE STUDENT WELLNESS CENTER if you are a student at Tech!! I had the best medical service and experience I have ever had. I don't even have health insurance, which worried me, and yet I walked out only paying $65 for the visit AND all the tests/x-rays.
Both of our problems can be resolved with the right amount of ibuprofen and time, thankfully! I feel really blessed that Spencer's foot wasn't more severely injured and that my chest pains weren't more severe than they are.
I could go on longer, telling about my classes (I'm taking a Psychology and Religion class that is interesting) but I don't have a lot more time. In short, the other thing I want to share is we have both involved ourselves at Tech. Spencer was accepted into a Photography internship, and I joined the Celtic Ensemble! lol This will be an interesting semester.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
Everything's Weirder in Utah
So Spencer and I, along with my family, left for Hatch, Utah last Thursday. We got here last Friday and jumped right into things! We had one of the family reunions on Saturday, then jumped into what we call the "Hatch Experience".
We haven't played in the 'creek' yet, but we did go down there. After hiking in the hills behind my great aunt's house, Spencer and I found some great skipping rocks and revisited the creek. We have also gone to Cedar City, Panguitch, the Red Canyon Indian Store and Bryce Canyon Visitor Center. We went to Ferryland and the Tropic Reservoir. I caught a water snake there and Spencer held a snake for the first time (outside a boa constrictor in elementary school). We went to the local store Mugwumps, full off random things. We played at the tiny park, saw some deer, caught some fish at Pine Lake (which was extremely gorgeous! Between my uncle, dad, Spencer and I, we caught twelve trout!), and hiked to Mossy Cave! Niels, Nathan, my cousin and I hiked back through the stream to the water fall and we got some great pictures! Hopefully they will turn out since we took them with Nathan's old camera. But throughout this whole trip, we have gotten some great pictures! If I remember, I'll post them on here and/or facebook.
We are having a great time! We will be heading back on Sunday, driving the full 18 hours straight! We sure miss our Tori bear! I should have written a post for each day we have been here but I didn't. Shoulda coulda woulda. I hope everyone is having a great summer themselves!
We haven't played in the 'creek' yet, but we did go down there. After hiking in the hills behind my great aunt's house, Spencer and I found some great skipping rocks and revisited the creek. We have also gone to Cedar City, Panguitch, the Red Canyon Indian Store and Bryce Canyon Visitor Center. We went to Ferryland and the Tropic Reservoir. I caught a water snake there and Spencer held a snake for the first time (outside a boa constrictor in elementary school). We went to the local store Mugwumps, full off random things. We played at the tiny park, saw some deer, caught some fish at Pine Lake (which was extremely gorgeous! Between my uncle, dad, Spencer and I, we caught twelve trout!), and hiked to Mossy Cave! Niels, Nathan, my cousin and I hiked back through the stream to the water fall and we got some great pictures! Hopefully they will turn out since we took them with Nathan's old camera. But throughout this whole trip, we have gotten some great pictures! If I remember, I'll post them on here and/or facebook.
We are having a great time! We will be heading back on Sunday, driving the full 18 hours straight! We sure miss our Tori bear! I should have written a post for each day we have been here but I didn't. Shoulda coulda woulda. I hope everyone is having a great summer themselves!
Wednesday, July 6, 2011
What a Beautiful Day!
Today was a wonderful day in our neighborhood! ;)
Spencer and I went fishing this morning. We didn't have any luck, but I did chase two fish in a small tiny little creek that ran off from a dam, and then another little tiny fish tried biting at my bait, but it was too small for the bait I was using and gave up. It was fun though! I love exploring! I heard what sounded like a tiny hammer and nails being hit into wood. I looked up, and it turned out to be a bird pecking at a tree! Nature... Then, thanks to my new water shoes!, I was able to wade through my little dam-run-off-tiny creek. :) It was a lot of fun for a little kid like me.
Then we finished up the last of the thank you notes and attempted to mail them. We were mailing ONE to Germany, and when we asked how much postage would be, the UPS teenage boys working told us that it would be $48. We were like.... "?!?! No.... You mean the international stamps that you place directly onto the envelope to mail this letter to Germany are $48??" ... "What?? I've never heard of international stamps...." Ugh little boy, nevermind, we are out of here!! (No I didn't tell him that...). So we went to Canyon Crossing, were FINALLY able to get everything straightened out and got to see what our floor plan looks like!! (Another "finally"). We are way excited!!
We took the thank you notes elsewhere, found out the stamps are only .98 (that's more like it), and sent them off. Then we bought soap for our new dispenser :), matching toothbrush holder and trash can included! lol
Things are great! Now we are just looking for jobs and getting ready for Utah and Dallas!!!!
Which reminds me... I am now the 14-15 yr old's Sunday School teacher, and I'm going to be out of town for three weeks!! I need to find a substitute!!!!
Until next time! <3 Maybe I'll post about Girly Girl Night this Saturday. :)
Spencer and I went fishing this morning. We didn't have any luck, but I did chase two fish in a small tiny little creek that ran off from a dam, and then another little tiny fish tried biting at my bait, but it was too small for the bait I was using and gave up. It was fun though! I love exploring! I heard what sounded like a tiny hammer and nails being hit into wood. I looked up, and it turned out to be a bird pecking at a tree! Nature... Then, thanks to my new water shoes!, I was able to wade through my little dam-run-off-tiny creek. :) It was a lot of fun for a little kid like me.
Then we finished up the last of the thank you notes and attempted to mail them. We were mailing ONE to Germany, and when we asked how much postage would be, the UPS teenage boys working told us that it would be $48. We were like.... "?!?! No.... You mean the international stamps that you place directly onto the envelope to mail this letter to Germany are $48??" ... "What?? I've never heard of international stamps...." Ugh little boy, nevermind, we are out of here!! (No I didn't tell him that...). So we went to Canyon Crossing, were FINALLY able to get everything straightened out and got to see what our floor plan looks like!! (Another "finally"). We are way excited!!
We took the thank you notes elsewhere, found out the stamps are only .98 (that's more like it), and sent them off. Then we bought soap for our new dispenser :), matching toothbrush holder and trash can included! lol
Things are great! Now we are just looking for jobs and getting ready for Utah and Dallas!!!!
Which reminds me... I am now the 14-15 yr old's Sunday School teacher, and I'm going to be out of town for three weeks!! I need to find a substitute!!!!
Until next time! <3 Maybe I'll post about Girly Girl Night this Saturday. :)
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
You've Got a Friend In Me
So first, I have this new design, but I have some crazy ideas that are going to take me a while to do, so don't get too used to this one! :) Okay, now to the main event.
Shayla Crooks just left for Utah a few days ago. She reports to the MTC on June 29th for her mission in Can't-Pronounce-It, Guatemala! I'm so excited for her! But I'm going to miss her so much, so in her honor, I dedicate the rest of this post.
We met at girls camp when we were 12 years old. I don't really remember a whole lot in those early days except that I thought she was cool, and it was nice to have someone my age to hang out at camp with. She was from 2nd Ward, so I didn't really see her all that often, being in 1st Ward.
Then when we turned 14, we went to seminary together. This being at 6:30 in the morning, and Shayla being Shayla, this wasn't the greatest of times. She has a very loud personality, and that was a bit much for me that early in the morning. So I "put up" with her. lol Boy was I missing out!
Then we were sophomores. The highlight of our friendship, and Shay would agree I think. I was scrambling a bit because I didn't have that many friends at Monterey in the beginning. The main issue being where to eat lunch and who to eat it with. I tried a few groups out, but then I re-met Shayla and Hannah. They had been friends in junior high. We had several classes together, even after my crazy schedule finally settled, and we became best friends. We walked to Shayla's house for lunch nearly every day. We had great times! Crazy English projects, odd food combinations that are classics now, unforgettable walks to and from Shayla's house... the list goes on! I think this was the year that biff originated. We use it as...anything! Good, bad, noun , verb, adjective, or even just an exclamation. "Ah biff! I totally biffed that..." We use it to this day! Along with some other people in our high school who caught on lol.
Then our junior year came around... Hannah and I had a little ...okay, big... conflict, and divided our friendship. To get a little juvenile, although I was clearly the victim, Hannah seemed to be playing the pity card to me, and all of our friends hung out with her. Since I wasn't welcome where she was, I was left alone. Shayla later told me that she hung out with Hannah because she thought I would be able to land on my feet and make new friends. I'm not sure how this sounds through text, but if it sounds bad, it wasn't. It made sense to me, and was glad she explained when she did. She didn't stop being my friend either, like some might have. I'm sorry to have put Shayla in that position to where she felt like she had to choose, so it was really my own fault.
Booooooo!!! Junior year was stupid! Let's skip to the better year! SENIOR!!!! Being too forgiving in some people's eyes, Hannah and I became friends again at the beginning of the next year. I don't really remember talking anything out, I just remembered being sick of being immature adolescents. I know how much she had felt bad for what had happened, and I missed my two best friends. I remember going and sitting by them, her taking it as "apology accepted", and moving on with life. Things were never quite the same, but we still had amazing times! Especially with Shayla and I. We were never closer before than our senior year. I wish I had time and room to share every good experience I had with Shay, but it wouldn't do it justice anyway.
Then after high school, I think we grew apart a little. Not in our relationship, but we just didn't make time to see each other outside of church anymore. I started dating guys more seriously and I just didn't make time, like a fool. After a kind of nasty breakup, I decided to change that. We started scheduling girl's nights every Wednesday. We had a blast!!! We've had food fights and made music videos. We've painted our faces way too many times, but still not enough. We have had a kids night and a spy night, a murder mystery night and a modeling night (maybe two... lol). All of these pictures can be found on facebook!
Most importantly, I don't know where I would be without Shayla Crooks. She has been my lifeline so many times that I can't even count them. She has always been there for me. When I had a nasty break-up, she carried me until I was back on my feet. When I made a mistake, big or small, she was there to listen, not judge, and forgave me every time. When I got married, she was there for anything I needed, along with several other amazing friends who helped out. Even when she didn't even know I needed her, she was there. The times that I felt the most alone in this world, she was there to remind me that I wasn't, not even close.
I could go on about amazing this woman is, but I won't. This Disney loving fiend will always be remembered and welcome in the Rogers house, and I wish her the best of luck in Guatemala! I'm very excited for her, but not as excited as I am for the people of Guatemala! I'm so overwhelmingly proud of her!
Shayla Crooks just left for Utah a few days ago. She reports to the MTC on June 29th for her mission in Can't-Pronounce-It, Guatemala! I'm so excited for her! But I'm going to miss her so much, so in her honor, I dedicate the rest of this post.
We met at girls camp when we were 12 years old. I don't really remember a whole lot in those early days except that I thought she was cool, and it was nice to have someone my age to hang out at camp with. She was from 2nd Ward, so I didn't really see her all that often, being in 1st Ward.
Then when we turned 14, we went to seminary together. This being at 6:30 in the morning, and Shayla being Shayla, this wasn't the greatest of times. She has a very loud personality, and that was a bit much for me that early in the morning. So I "put up" with her. lol Boy was I missing out!
Then we were sophomores. The highlight of our friendship, and Shay would agree I think. I was scrambling a bit because I didn't have that many friends at Monterey in the beginning. The main issue being where to eat lunch and who to eat it with. I tried a few groups out, but then I re-met Shayla and Hannah. They had been friends in junior high. We had several classes together, even after my crazy schedule finally settled, and we became best friends. We walked to Shayla's house for lunch nearly every day. We had great times! Crazy English projects, odd food combinations that are classics now, unforgettable walks to and from Shayla's house... the list goes on! I think this was the year that biff originated. We use it as...anything! Good, bad, noun , verb, adjective, or even just an exclamation. "Ah biff! I totally biffed that..." We use it to this day! Along with some other people in our high school who caught on lol.
Then our junior year came around... Hannah and I had a little ...okay, big... conflict, and divided our friendship. To get a little juvenile, although I was clearly the victim, Hannah seemed to be playing the pity card to me, and all of our friends hung out with her. Since I wasn't welcome where she was, I was left alone. Shayla later told me that she hung out with Hannah because she thought I would be able to land on my feet and make new friends. I'm not sure how this sounds through text, but if it sounds bad, it wasn't. It made sense to me, and was glad she explained when she did. She didn't stop being my friend either, like some might have. I'm sorry to have put Shayla in that position to where she felt like she had to choose, so it was really my own fault.
Booooooo!!! Junior year was stupid! Let's skip to the better year! SENIOR!!!! Being too forgiving in some people's eyes, Hannah and I became friends again at the beginning of the next year. I don't really remember talking anything out, I just remembered being sick of being immature adolescents. I know how much she had felt bad for what had happened, and I missed my two best friends. I remember going and sitting by them, her taking it as "apology accepted", and moving on with life. Things were never quite the same, but we still had amazing times! Especially with Shayla and I. We were never closer before than our senior year. I wish I had time and room to share every good experience I had with Shay, but it wouldn't do it justice anyway.
Then after high school, I think we grew apart a little. Not in our relationship, but we just didn't make time to see each other outside of church anymore. I started dating guys more seriously and I just didn't make time, like a fool. After a kind of nasty breakup, I decided to change that. We started scheduling girl's nights every Wednesday. We had a blast!!! We've had food fights and made music videos. We've painted our faces way too many times, but still not enough. We have had a kids night and a spy night, a murder mystery night and a modeling night (maybe two... lol). All of these pictures can be found on facebook!
Most importantly, I don't know where I would be without Shayla Crooks. She has been my lifeline so many times that I can't even count them. She has always been there for me. When I had a nasty break-up, she carried me until I was back on my feet. When I made a mistake, big or small, she was there to listen, not judge, and forgave me every time. When I got married, she was there for anything I needed, along with several other amazing friends who helped out. Even when she didn't even know I needed her, she was there. The times that I felt the most alone in this world, she was there to remind me that I wasn't, not even close.
I could go on about amazing this woman is, but I won't. This Disney loving fiend will always be remembered and welcome in the Rogers house, and I wish her the best of luck in Guatemala! I'm very excited for her, but not as excited as I am for the people of Guatemala! I'm so overwhelmingly proud of her!
 |
| Food Fight!! |
 |
| Jumping on the bed in NYC! |
 |
| Detective Murder Mystery Night |
 |
| Rock n Roll Girls Camp |
 |
| Guys Night |
 |
| "Sprite" Party! |
 |
| "Last" Girls Night |
 |
| Valentine's Dance |
 |
| Wonder Woman Shayla Crooks! |
Monday, June 13, 2011
Attempted
Well, my first public attempt at a banner. I'm not very good with this sort of thing. The only "picture editing" software I use is Paint. Yeah, Paint. I took a class on photoshop and graphic design but it was dumb and I feel like I didn't learn anything.
I wish I had more to say about that. It's been a really long, really odd day. Spencer and I aren't fighting, but there are a few things that I have been less than happy about today. I'm just wallowing in it until I can decide whether I am overreacting or not.
I am babysitting my neice, Tamra, this week. And next week, if this week goes well. She is spunky and very feisty. She is an extremely smart girl, but this can mean she can be a handful at times! lol
I made Spencer Angry Birds cupcakes last night. Baking the cupcakes only took 30 mins to prepare and bake, another little while to cool, maybe 30-45 minutes to frost them, then another 2 hours, roughly, to decorate them. I used to work at Mrs. Fields, but I was too young to be made any kind of shift manager, so I never got the chance to decorate the big cookies, even though I have the know-how and the just. I just lack the experience. Here's a picture of them.
That's all I have for you today. Time to keep on keepin' on!
I wish I had more to say about that. It's been a really long, really odd day. Spencer and I aren't fighting, but there are a few things that I have been less than happy about today. I'm just wallowing in it until I can decide whether I am overreacting or not.
I am babysitting my neice, Tamra, this week. And next week, if this week goes well. She is spunky and very feisty. She is an extremely smart girl, but this can mean she can be a handful at times! lol
I made Spencer Angry Birds cupcakes last night. Baking the cupcakes only took 30 mins to prepare and bake, another little while to cool, maybe 30-45 minutes to frost them, then another 2 hours, roughly, to decorate them. I used to work at Mrs. Fields, but I was too young to be made any kind of shift manager, so I never got the chance to decorate the big cookies, even though I have the know-how and the just. I just lack the experience. Here's a picture of them.
That's all I have for you today. Time to keep on keepin' on!
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
New Beginnings
I am married! My name is Samantha Rogers and I am starting over. I've decided to take all labels off. This time, anything goes, which is how it should be. This is not a journal, this will not include any marathons, just me and whatever I care to share. Caring is sharing and sharing is caring. :)
I'm excited to start my life as a wife! So welcome to my neighborhood! Won't you be my neighbor?
Always remember, "Kindness is love with its workboots on."
I really enjoyed this morning. I took my book to the apartment pool, took a short dip, then laid out while reading Redeeming Love. I'm not very far, but it's a good book so far! Sad, but getting happier. It was a beautiful morning! I am so blessed to be able to happily partake of the sun and have cool, fresh, and clean water available for my pleasure and leisure! How are you blessed today?
♥
I'm excited to start my life as a wife! So welcome to my neighborhood! Won't you be my neighbor?
Always remember, "Kindness is love with its workboots on."
I really enjoyed this morning. I took my book to the apartment pool, took a short dip, then laid out while reading Redeeming Love. I'm not very far, but it's a good book so far! Sad, but getting happier. It was a beautiful morning! I am so blessed to be able to happily partake of the sun and have cool, fresh, and clean water available for my pleasure and leisure! How are you blessed today?
♥
Monday, May 2, 2011
Fail Blog
Well, I guess I know where they get the term "Fail Blog".
I didn't keep up with my marathon, I've missed two or three weeks now. I'm fine with that. I'm going to actually practice what I tell others to and start exercising every day. I'd much rather ACTUALLY exercise than just tell about.
So I've decided to quit my little marathon and use my spare time to exercise.
Not that I won't write in this blog, I just want to be able to write about whatever I want. Several times over the past few weeks I have wanted to write in my blog but thought "Wait, that has nothing to do with exercising!". I didn't like the constraints.
Lesson learned: Exercise is important, and a ton of fun, but there are a billion other joys in life. I'm making it my profession, but not my life.
On that note, 26 days until the wedding!!!!!
I didn't keep up with my marathon, I've missed two or three weeks now. I'm fine with that. I'm going to actually practice what I tell others to and start exercising every day. I'd much rather ACTUALLY exercise than just tell about.
So I've decided to quit my little marathon and use my spare time to exercise.
Not that I won't write in this blog, I just want to be able to write about whatever I want. Several times over the past few weeks I have wanted to write in my blog but thought "Wait, that has nothing to do with exercising!". I didn't like the constraints.
Lesson learned: Exercise is important, and a ton of fun, but there are a billion other joys in life. I'm making it my profession, but not my life.
On that note, 26 days until the wedding!!!!!
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Week 7: Don't you mean 8?
Okay cool cats, sorry for the missed week!
It's been crazy crazy and I don't know why in the world I thought I could do some blogging marathon in the midst of wedding planning and the hardest semester of school so far. I'll complete what I can, but this gal's taken too big of a bite!
Be back later!
It's been crazy crazy and I don't know why in the world I thought I could do some blogging marathon in the midst of wedding planning and the hardest semester of school so far. I'll complete what I can, but this gal's taken too big of a bite!
Be back later!
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Week 6: Go Big or Go Home
This is the half-way point. I said twelve weeks and this is week six.
I'm not going to lie, with the wedding also being six-seven weeks away, keeping up with this blog every week has been tough. I set the standard in my mind too high for myself. I want to give detailed workouts, but truth be told, this kind of thing is too personal for generalities. Also, physical things are best learned in 'person'. Kind of makes sense. ;)
So this week is just a tip. Much like how I want to just quit this blog, you are going to want to quit working out. It's going to seem too hard. You are going to get lazy and want to go back to what's "easy". That's not ever going to cut it! No matter what you do!
Science By Samm fact, the truth of the matter is, the work you do AFTER you want to give up is the most rewarding. Whenever you are doing pushups and you tell yourself "I can't do one more. I'm done. This is it, this is my limit, *crash*", that is when I know you have more in you to do! And that is when you build your muscles and get the most out of doing pushups. This applies to each individual exercise, stretch, or even entire workout. Feel like you are going to faceplant on the treadmill if you run one more second? Run another minute! You can! I know you can! Our bodies and minds are connected. You think you know your limits because maybe you aren't used to pushing yourself. So your mind says "Oh no! Stop! This is as far as you can go, I remember!" Well, that was last time, and you've grown since then! Push those thoughts away and push yourself foward and get the most out of Your workout!
Enjoy!
I'm not going to lie, with the wedding also being six-seven weeks away, keeping up with this blog every week has been tough. I set the standard in my mind too high for myself. I want to give detailed workouts, but truth be told, this kind of thing is too personal for generalities. Also, physical things are best learned in 'person'. Kind of makes sense. ;)
So this week is just a tip. Much like how I want to just quit this blog, you are going to want to quit working out. It's going to seem too hard. You are going to get lazy and want to go back to what's "easy". That's not ever going to cut it! No matter what you do!
Science By Samm fact, the truth of the matter is, the work you do AFTER you want to give up is the most rewarding. Whenever you are doing pushups and you tell yourself "I can't do one more. I'm done. This is it, this is my limit, *crash*", that is when I know you have more in you to do! And that is when you build your muscles and get the most out of doing pushups. This applies to each individual exercise, stretch, or even entire workout. Feel like you are going to faceplant on the treadmill if you run one more second? Run another minute! You can! I know you can! Our bodies and minds are connected. You think you know your limits because maybe you aren't used to pushing yourself. So your mind says "Oh no! Stop! This is as far as you can go, I remember!" Well, that was last time, and you've grown since then! Push those thoughts away and push yourself foward and get the most out of Your workout!
Enjoy!
Friday, April 1, 2011
Week 5: Yoga!
I adore yoga!! It's peaceful, it's relaxing, but at the same time, it'll make you pant, grunt, and sweat!
For those of you who may have tried P90X, you know exactly what I'm talking about!
Now the computer I'm on today is being temperamental, and I don't want to do a whole post and then lose it because of technical problems.
Which is why I chose yoga this week! It's so personal, only you know You! And yoga is all about union, whether it be with you and You, with you and Him, or you and nature. Whatever you care to unionize with.
There's no greater tool for this, in my opinion, than making your own Yoga Journal. I love this thing! You design your own workouts according to You! You can design multiple workouts and title them! "Monday", "Wednesday", and "Friday; "Morning" and "Night", or maybe even by mood of "I'm Feeling Strong Today" and "Gimme a Break". This is how I use it, anyway. You just build "sequences", and you can name them for what the positions look like or even what part of the body you work.
Yes, it's about union, but it's also about staying flexible and toned (the general "use" of yoga in America). You know where your weaknesses and your strengths are. Do you have weak knees? Do you have strong arms? Work on your weaknesses, but keep up your strong points. "Balance" is very punny in yoga, meaning you use it in more than one way.
Go make your own personalized Yoga Journal ! It has a ton of poses and ideas to make the best of your yoga experience! It has pictures and detailed descriptions on how to do it. Go make the best You!
Enjoy!
For those of you who may have tried P90X, you know exactly what I'm talking about!
Now the computer I'm on today is being temperamental, and I don't want to do a whole post and then lose it because of technical problems.
Which is why I chose yoga this week! It's so personal, only you know You! And yoga is all about union, whether it be with you and You, with you and Him, or you and nature. Whatever you care to unionize with.
There's no greater tool for this, in my opinion, than making your own Yoga Journal. I love this thing! You design your own workouts according to You! You can design multiple workouts and title them! "Monday", "Wednesday", and "Friday; "Morning" and "Night", or maybe even by mood of "I'm Feeling Strong Today" and "Gimme a Break". This is how I use it, anyway. You just build "sequences", and you can name them for what the positions look like or even what part of the body you work.
Yes, it's about union, but it's also about staying flexible and toned (the general "use" of yoga in America). You know where your weaknesses and your strengths are. Do you have weak knees? Do you have strong arms? Work on your weaknesses, but keep up your strong points. "Balance" is very punny in yoga, meaning you use it in more than one way.
Go make your own personalized Yoga Journal ! It has a ton of poses and ideas to make the best of your yoga experience! It has pictures and detailed descriptions on how to do it. Go make the best You!
Enjoy!
Friday, March 25, 2011
Week 4: In-A-Pinch!
So, I have this amazing app on my iTouch called In-A-Pinch. This app tells you what exercises you need to do for a certain area of the body if you are stiff or sore!
USE THESE IN YOUR WARMUPS AND COOL DOWNS!!! :)
For those that don't use smartphones, iPods, or any other app-friendly device, and do not know what an app is ... I'm not going to explain myself.
For those that don't use smartphones, iPods, or any other app-friendly device, but you know what an app is, this is for you!
And finally, for those with smartphones, you stopped reading this two sentences ago and have already bought the Free version of In-A-Pinch.
Which brings me to my next point. In-A-Pinch has a free version! This is why I feel comfortable sharing it's secrets to the blogging world. I wouldn't be sharing any of this information if it wasn't the free version.
But I understand that smartphones are expensive, apps can be difficult, and if you don't know what you are doing, very confusing! So I will be sharing some information from one of my favorite apps ever. Remember, it's free! And this post will not include everything, so if you do have a smartphone, go snatch this app!
It starts out telling you to tell them "where it hurts". This will be my non-interactive, 2D version.
Each section has several different things you can do in order to make it feel better. I will only give one exercise per area to conserve room and, do remember, this is the free free version. Also, these are nearly all stretches. Hold each for 15 seconds, or sets of 15 seconds, for best results.
FRONT
Head-(light blue): Stressed: Breathe!!! Take slow, deep rhythmic breaths.
Neck-(red): Head tilts and turns. Straight back, and just tilt the head slowly front, back, left, right.
Chest-(light green):Seated Wings. Sit crossed legged and have someone grab your wrists behind you and gently pull.
Abs-(blue): Fish Pose. Lay flat on your back with hands palm down by hips. Press elbows into the ground as you left your ribs to the sky. Tuck your head under and rest.
Shoulders-(yellow): Yoga Mudra behind back. Stand with tall spine, clasp hands behind your back, lift up trying to squeeze the shoulder blades together, keep spine straight.
Upper arms- (dark blue)- Tricept Stretch: Reach your arm all the way up then bend the right elbow and reach down your spine. Use left arm to grab the outside of right elbow. Keep your neck relaxed.
Forearms-(orange)- Flexion: Extend your arm out, palm forward, bend wrist and use other hand to increase the stretch.
Wrists-(red): Wrist Roll: Clech your fist, the tighter, the deeper the stretch, and roll it in a circle one way, then the other.
Hands- (fuschia): Gorilla Hands: Start on hands and knees. With hands under the shoulders and knees under the hips, curl the tips of your fingers under. *Deep stretch!*
Hips -(pink): Come to hands and knees and spread knees as wide as you can. Lower forearms under your shoulders. Take your heels as wide as your knees and start to press your hips back. Keep relaxed! Using padding under knees and elbows as necessary.
Thighs-(brown): Standing squad stretch: While standing, grab your foot behind you and hold it to your rear. If you need something to help you balance, no need to feel ashamed! Grab a hold of the sucker! It can be a wall, workout buddy, table, chair, child in time-out forced to be your prop, whatever you need. ;)
Knees-(purple): Lower Leg Lateral-rotation: Sit on a chair and lift one foot off the ground. Rotate the leg so the foot points out, then rotate it so it points in. Don't forget to switch to the other side!
Ankles-(green): Flutter Foot: Sitting in chair, extend one leg. Point the foot and toe, then draw it back.Repeat several times. Sidenote: When the toe is pointed, it's called Plantarflexion, and when the toes are pulled back, it's called Dorsiflextion. A little Anatomy and Physiology for ya!
Feet-(yellow): Arch massage. Sit and use your thumbs to press into the arch of your foot. Feel for tight or sore spots. Squeeze heels or bottom of foot, whatever feels good!
BACK
Head-(light blue): Same as FRONT.
Upper back-(purple): Protract/Retract: Sit nice and tall, hands on knees, taking deep breaths. Exhale, tuck chin under and round spine. Inhald, lift chin and chest,pull with hands. Repeat!!
Shoulders-(blue): Same as FRONT.
Upper arms-(light green): Same as FRONT
Elbows-(orange): Supination and Pronation:This is basically just rotating your arm/forearm one way, then the other, as much as you can. (Twisting).
Forearms-(red): Same as FRONT
Wrists-(fuschia) and Hands-(yellow): Same as Front
Mid-back-(pink): CatDog: This is also now as Cat and Cow in yoga. Kneel on all fours, knees under hips, hands under shoulders. Press tailbone to the sky, bellybutton into the ground and hold. Then press your hips forward, your spine stretching to the sky. (one of my absolutely favorite stretches).
Lower back-(green): Pigeon: Another favorite yoga move. Start with hands on knees on floor. Move your knee forward and your ankle under your hip. Lean into this stretch. This is kind of hard to describe so please click here to see what it looks like. Then lean over your front knee for a deeper stretch.
Hips-(light blue): Same as Front.
Hamstrings-(light green): I don't agree with In-A-Pinch here, not comletely, so bear with me. I just like throwing my leg up onto a table or chair, and leaning forward to (try to) grab the toe. The V-sit stretch does this too. (So many good hamstring stretches in the world!)
Calves-(purple): Dog Down Runners Stretch: Another yoga pose, also known as Downward Dog. Place your hands and knees on the floor. Tuck your toes under and straighten your legs. Try to place your heels on the ground. You should look like an upside down V. Then spread your legs shoulder width apart, straighten one so the heel is on the ground and bend the other knee. Keep as relaxed as you can.
Ankles-(brown): Same as FRONT.
And that's all I have for you today!
Enjoy!
USE THESE IN YOUR WARMUPS AND COOL DOWNS!!! :)
For those that don't use smartphones, iPods, or any other app-friendly device, and do not know what an app is ... I'm not going to explain myself.
For those that don't use smartphones, iPods, or any other app-friendly device, but you know what an app is, this is for you!
And finally, for those with smartphones, you stopped reading this two sentences ago and have already bought the Free version of In-A-Pinch.
Which brings me to my next point. In-A-Pinch has a free version! This is why I feel comfortable sharing it's secrets to the blogging world. I wouldn't be sharing any of this information if it wasn't the free version.
But I understand that smartphones are expensive, apps can be difficult, and if you don't know what you are doing, very confusing! So I will be sharing some information from one of my favorite apps ever. Remember, it's free! And this post will not include everything, so if you do have a smartphone, go snatch this app!
It starts out telling you to tell them "where it hurts". This will be my non-interactive, 2D version.
FRONT
Head-(light blue): Stressed: Breathe!!! Take slow, deep rhythmic breaths.
Neck-(red): Head tilts and turns. Straight back, and just tilt the head slowly front, back, left, right.
Chest-(light green):Seated Wings. Sit crossed legged and have someone grab your wrists behind you and gently pull.
Abs-(blue): Fish Pose. Lay flat on your back with hands palm down by hips. Press elbows into the ground as you left your ribs to the sky. Tuck your head under and rest.
.jpg){kind=link}
Shoulders-(yellow): Yoga Mudra behind back. Stand with tall spine, clasp hands behind your back, lift up trying to squeeze the shoulder blades together, keep spine straight.
Upper arms- (dark blue)- Tricept Stretch: Reach your arm all the way up then bend the right elbow and reach down your spine. Use left arm to grab the outside of right elbow. Keep your neck relaxed.
Forearms-(orange)- Flexion: Extend your arm out, palm forward, bend wrist and use other hand to increase the stretch.
Wrists-(red): Wrist Roll: Clech your fist, the tighter, the deeper the stretch, and roll it in a circle one way, then the other.
Hands- (fuschia): Gorilla Hands: Start on hands and knees. With hands under the shoulders and knees under the hips, curl the tips of your fingers under. *Deep stretch!*
Hips -(pink): Come to hands and knees and spread knees as wide as you can. Lower forearms under your shoulders. Take your heels as wide as your knees and start to press your hips back. Keep relaxed! Using padding under knees and elbows as necessary.
Thighs-(brown): Standing squad stretch: While standing, grab your foot behind you and hold it to your rear. If you need something to help you balance, no need to feel ashamed! Grab a hold of the sucker! It can be a wall, workout buddy, table, chair, child in time-out forced to be your prop, whatever you need. ;)
Knees-(purple): Lower Leg Lateral-rotation: Sit on a chair and lift one foot off the ground. Rotate the leg so the foot points out, then rotate it so it points in. Don't forget to switch to the other side!
Ankles-(green): Flutter Foot: Sitting in chair, extend one leg. Point the foot and toe, then draw it back.Repeat several times. Sidenote: When the toe is pointed, it's called Plantarflexion, and when the toes are pulled back, it's called Dorsiflextion. A little Anatomy and Physiology for ya!
Feet-(yellow): Arch massage. Sit and use your thumbs to press into the arch of your foot. Feel for tight or sore spots. Squeeze heels or bottom of foot, whatever feels good!
BACK
Head-(light blue): Same as FRONT.
Upper back-(purple): Protract/Retract: Sit nice and tall, hands on knees, taking deep breaths. Exhale, tuck chin under and round spine. Inhald, lift chin and chest,pull with hands. Repeat!!
Shoulders-(blue): Same as FRONT.
Upper arms-(light green): Same as FRONT
Elbows-(orange): Supination and Pronation:This is basically just rotating your arm/forearm one way, then the other, as much as you can. (Twisting).
Forearms-(red): Same as FRONT
Wrists-(fuschia) and Hands-(yellow): Same as Front
Mid-back-(pink): CatDog: This is also now as Cat and Cow in yoga. Kneel on all fours, knees under hips, hands under shoulders. Press tailbone to the sky, bellybutton into the ground and hold. Then press your hips forward, your spine stretching to the sky. (one of my absolutely favorite stretches).
Lower back-(green): Pigeon: Another favorite yoga move. Start with hands on knees on floor. Move your knee forward and your ankle under your hip. Lean into this stretch. This is kind of hard to describe so please click here to see what it looks like. Then lean over your front knee for a deeper stretch.
Hips-(light blue): Same as Front.
Hamstrings-(light green): I don't agree with In-A-Pinch here, not comletely, so bear with me. I just like throwing my leg up onto a table or chair, and leaning forward to (try to) grab the toe. The V-sit stretch does this too. (So many good hamstring stretches in the world!)
Calves-(purple): Dog Down Runners Stretch: Another yoga pose, also known as Downward Dog. Place your hands and knees on the floor. Tuck your toes under and straighten your legs. Try to place your heels on the ground. You should look like an upside down V. Then spread your legs shoulder width apart, straighten one so the heel is on the ground and bend the other knee. Keep as relaxed as you can.
Ankles-(brown): Same as FRONT.
And that's all I have for you today!
Enjoy!
Saturday, March 19, 2011
Week 3: Spring Break
So this week was super busy!!
Short and sweet:
It's important not to over-work yourself!! There IS such a thing as exercising too much!! Train smart and don't forget to take well earned breaks!!!
Enjoy!!!
Short and sweet:
It's important not to over-work yourself!! There IS such a thing as exercising too much!! Train smart and don't forget to take well earned breaks!!!
Enjoy!!!
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Week 2: Meditation
Meditation? What does that have to do with being fit and healthy?
Pretty much everything!
This is Samm Speculation, so don't quote me, but your body and mind work together in perfect unison. If you're mind is not healthy, if you are not happy, your mind translates into your body, and your body won't work right for you! Not just in the normal ways of "Oh I'm happy, so I don't have tension in my shoulders", but in others ways. For example, if you are working out, not because you want to or are motivated to, but as a chore "Oh, I have to work out today, but I don't have time! *stress stress stress*", then chances are, you won't gain your goal! You won't lose any weight, in fact chances are, you may gain weight. If your mind isn't happy and healthy, your body won't respond in a happy or healthy way and all you're miles and hard work will not pay off nearly as much as the alternative.
Now the Science of it all. I have a list! (Those that know me on a personal level know I live for lists!) We'll make it a lovely Tens List. This information is about the benefits of meditation:
1. It increases the blood flow and slows the heart rate. In this fast paced world, we could all use some of that!
2. Reduces PMS. Yep! Ladies, who knew that meditation would help with PMS? Relaxation and meditation will make these 'symptoms' less severe! (Also, pickle juice *wink*)
3. Leads to a deeper level of relaxation. Those who have meditated before know what I mean by this. It's such a blissful place between conscious and subconscious, between being close to sleep, but fully awake.
4. It builds self confidence! (Most exercises do!)
5. Reduces activity of viruses and emotional distress.
6. It increases serotonin production which influences mood and behaviour. Low levels of serotonin are associated with depression, obesity, insomnia and headaches.
7. It can restore blood pressure to normal for those with high blood pressure.
8. Enhances the immune system. Research has revealed that meditation increases activity of 'natural-killer cells', which kill bacteria and cancer cells.
9. Helps in post-operative healing.
10. Reduces anxiety attacks by lowering the levels of blood lactate.
For more, visit healthandyoga.
We are constantly worrying about exercising to help the outside of our body, but what about the inside? Meditation is one of the ways to achieve a "toned" inside. Here's what I like to do:
I like to Passively Meditate
Step One: Find a quiet place where You are comfortable. No physically, but a place where you feel at home or at peace. Bedroom's are a great place.
Step Two: Be alone! Kick the hubby out for a while, or invest in a "Do Not Disturb" sign on the door. Or maybe you can find time by taking a bubble bath. We all know that's our Me time.
Step Three: Set the mood. When you study, you turn the lights on, the lamp on, maybe throw ear plugs in to block out extra noise. It's the same with meditation, set the tone. I like to turn all the lights off, light some candles, and play some very relaxing music on in the background a at a low volume.
Step Four: Get comfy! Generally, I like to sit on the floor. You can sit on a couch or a chair, but remember you are moving into a state of relaxation and what I'm going to call sublaxation. It's okay if you fall asleep, but save the sleeping for bedtime! Maybe set a blanket down, or a couple of pillows.
Step Five: Meditate! There are many ways you can meditate, so if you don't like the way I do it, maybe these will be more beneficial to you! Remember, this is about You! I'm no teacher, just a suggester! Listen to your body, pay attention to it! It'll tell you what it needs and what it likes! If your body likes to lay down while meditation, listen to it! If you fall asleep that way, maybe you just need to reclin against a pile of pillows. When your mind and body work together is when you yield the best benefits and results!
I like to go on what I call Yoga-cations! First, I'll completely clear my mind and relax. If I'm laying down, I will relax one body part at a time starting with my big toe until I reach my eyes. Sitting up, I will concentrate on my breathing in and out. Once all stresses and cares of my everyday life leave, my subconscious will kick on and send me where I want to go. It's usually on the beach somewhere. I will lividly try to imagine the sand between my toes, the wind on my face, the water around my ankles. This helps me relax and feel like I'm getting a much needed vacation in my very own bedroom.
Another thing you can do is 'soul searching'. You can learn a lot about yourself through meditation! For example, after completely clearing your mind and reaching Your sublaxation level, you can think "fear" and find out what is scaring you at this moment in time. Or you can think the word "happy" and find out what, in the real world, can give you the most happiness. It's almost an out of body experience when you are living solely in your mind. It's almost like getting an outsider's perspective from your innermost Inside.
Now yes, I am what the world calls Mormon. There are amazing ways to meditate through religion. Instead of reaching the Innermost You, try to reach the connection between You and Him. Instead of you communicating with yourself, doing self-reflections, communicate in prayer with Him. Instead of relaxing to sublaxation, use that time to clear your pride and humble yourself in order to truly listen. The communication of prayer is limitless and priceless.
I hope this helps you become the best You! Enjoy!
Pretty much everything!
This is Samm Speculation, so don't quote me, but your body and mind work together in perfect unison. If you're mind is not healthy, if you are not happy, your mind translates into your body, and your body won't work right for you! Not just in the normal ways of "Oh I'm happy, so I don't have tension in my shoulders", but in others ways. For example, if you are working out, not because you want to or are motivated to, but as a chore "Oh, I have to work out today, but I don't have time! *stress stress stress*", then chances are, you won't gain your goal! You won't lose any weight, in fact chances are, you may gain weight. If your mind isn't happy and healthy, your body won't respond in a happy or healthy way and all you're miles and hard work will not pay off nearly as much as the alternative.
Now the Science of it all. I have a list! (Those that know me on a personal level know I live for lists!) We'll make it a lovely Tens List. This information is about the benefits of meditation:
1. It increases the blood flow and slows the heart rate. In this fast paced world, we could all use some of that!
2. Reduces PMS. Yep! Ladies, who knew that meditation would help with PMS? Relaxation and meditation will make these 'symptoms' less severe! (Also, pickle juice *wink*)
3. Leads to a deeper level of relaxation. Those who have meditated before know what I mean by this. It's such a blissful place between conscious and subconscious, between being close to sleep, but fully awake.
4. It builds self confidence! (Most exercises do!)
5. Reduces activity of viruses and emotional distress.
6. It increases serotonin production which influences mood and behaviour. Low levels of serotonin are associated with depression, obesity, insomnia and headaches.
7. It can restore blood pressure to normal for those with high blood pressure.
8. Enhances the immune system. Research has revealed that meditation increases activity of 'natural-killer cells', which kill bacteria and cancer cells.
9. Helps in post-operative healing.
10. Reduces anxiety attacks by lowering the levels of blood lactate.
For more, visit healthandyoga.
We are constantly worrying about exercising to help the outside of our body, but what about the inside? Meditation is one of the ways to achieve a "toned" inside. Here's what I like to do:
I like to Passively Meditate
Step One: Find a quiet place where You are comfortable. No physically, but a place where you feel at home or at peace. Bedroom's are a great place.
Step Two: Be alone! Kick the hubby out for a while, or invest in a "Do Not Disturb" sign on the door. Or maybe you can find time by taking a bubble bath. We all know that's our Me time.
Step Three: Set the mood. When you study, you turn the lights on, the lamp on, maybe throw ear plugs in to block out extra noise. It's the same with meditation, set the tone. I like to turn all the lights off, light some candles, and play some very relaxing music on in the background a at a low volume.
Step Four: Get comfy! Generally, I like to sit on the floor. You can sit on a couch or a chair, but remember you are moving into a state of relaxation and what I'm going to call sublaxation. It's okay if you fall asleep, but save the sleeping for bedtime! Maybe set a blanket down, or a couple of pillows.
Step Five: Meditate! There are many ways you can meditate, so if you don't like the way I do it, maybe these will be more beneficial to you! Remember, this is about You! I'm no teacher, just a suggester! Listen to your body, pay attention to it! It'll tell you what it needs and what it likes! If your body likes to lay down while meditation, listen to it! If you fall asleep that way, maybe you just need to reclin against a pile of pillows. When your mind and body work together is when you yield the best benefits and results!
I like to go on what I call Yoga-cations! First, I'll completely clear my mind and relax. If I'm laying down, I will relax one body part at a time starting with my big toe until I reach my eyes. Sitting up, I will concentrate on my breathing in and out. Once all stresses and cares of my everyday life leave, my subconscious will kick on and send me where I want to go. It's usually on the beach somewhere. I will lividly try to imagine the sand between my toes, the wind on my face, the water around my ankles. This helps me relax and feel like I'm getting a much needed vacation in my very own bedroom.
Another thing you can do is 'soul searching'. You can learn a lot about yourself through meditation! For example, after completely clearing your mind and reaching Your sublaxation level, you can think "fear" and find out what is scaring you at this moment in time. Or you can think the word "happy" and find out what, in the real world, can give you the most happiness. It's almost an out of body experience when you are living solely in your mind. It's almost like getting an outsider's perspective from your innermost Inside.
Now yes, I am what the world calls Mormon. There are amazing ways to meditate through religion. Instead of reaching the Innermost You, try to reach the connection between You and Him. Instead of you communicating with yourself, doing self-reflections, communicate in prayer with Him. Instead of relaxing to sublaxation, use that time to clear your pride and humble yourself in order to truly listen. The communication of prayer is limitless and priceless.
I hope this helps you become the best You! Enjoy!
Wednesday, March 2, 2011
Week 1: Kickboxing
Kickboxing!!!
What a great way to officially start this marathon!! This is such a great workout in every aspect; you get your cardio in, your all-around strength training, coordination, and even self defense! Now ladies of the blogging world, tell me that doesn't sound amazing! It's also a lot of fun and boosts your self esteem, not only because you are whipping that butt-er cream into shape, but you'll feel more confident and get to feeling sorry for any loser who would dare mess with you!
My shameless plug of the day, my two teachers of this subject were 1) Silk Manning, and his '80s/$6 DVD that I got off of ebay, and 2) Vanessa Moffett who teaches at South Plains College, and who I really do want to be when I grow up! So this beginner's guide I've come up with comes from both of these people and thank you for your time and instruction!
IMPORTANT: 1) It's always important to warm up and cool-down in any exercise regimen. I will either devote a week to warm-ups and cool-downs or they may come up as a Bonus Post! 2) 90% of kickboxing is kicking and punching, so make sure you take care of, not only your arms and legs, but the power behind them! 3) Have fun! Exercise is always more productive and beneficial when you have fun doing it! A good way to ensure this is to set each workout to music!
WARM UP: Make sure you do an even amount on the left and the right side, and do about 3 or 4 sets of each!
Since I will have a warm-up post, I won't take the room here. Just make sure you focus on stretching out your arms and your legs, and loosening up those shoulders before kickboxing! Since this is a cardio workout, try to do standing stretches, and get moving! Jog in place or jumprope, you're body will thank you later for it.
WORKOUT: I will just give you the basic moves. You can do them in this order, or you can take this and combine them into a You-Specialized workout!! The punches will work your arms, the kicks will work the legs, but for those out for ab crunchers, I'd recommend the Side push kick, Kneestrike, and the Roundhouse kick for your obliques!
For self defense practice, keep your arms up in a guard! This just means your arms are bent and in a guard position, protecting your face, and ready to move into any block/attack you need.
Get that heart rate up! This is a cardio exercise, so make sure you are moving. I like to do the boxer's shuffle throughout a lot of this exercise. This just means you are bouncing on the balls of your feet, shifting your weight from one foot to the other. Use this when you mix your punches together, or transitioning into your next move.
Punches: With doing just one kind of punch, make sure one foot is always slightly forward. Use your hips to drive your punch!
*Jab: With your left foot forward, punch in front of you with your left arm. This one is hard to use your hips, but lean slightly into the punch for a greater effect. Switch to the right, right foot forward, punch with right.
*Cross: Left foot foward, punch forward with your right arm. You will be crossing your body. Rotate the back foot so that you use your hips to energize this punch! Right foot foward, punch with right.
*Hook: Left foot foward, bring your left arm around as if you are punching someone in the side of the face. Rotate your front leg to power this punch with your hips. Right foot foward, punch with right.
*Uppercut: Left foot forward, bring your right arm up, as if punching the attacker in the chin. Rotate the back foot slightly to bring power with your hips. Right foot foward, punch with left.
Kicks: Do your best and forget the rest! Don't worry if your kick isn't as high or as straight as you want. Don't worry if you keep falling out of form! It's not a big deal, just make sure you keep going with your head held high and have fun with it! With any kick, it helps your balance to lean the opposite way you are kicking! (lean back with a front push, lean to the right when side pushing to the left)
*Front push: This is basically a front kick. Act as if you are kicking them in the stomach or chest, or maybe kicking down a door. Knee up, push out foward with your foot, back in, knee down. Keep your foot flexed. (Toes are pulled back/Flat foot)
*Back push: This is the same as the front only instead of kicking foward, you're kicking back, kind of like a mule kick. Foot is flexed.
*Side push: Just as it sounds. Bring your knee up, push out to the side, back in, knee down. Foot is flexed
*Roundhouse: No, you will not be doing a full roundhouse like Chuck Norris if you are a beginner! So this is the modified roundhouse. The foot is not flexed! Point your toes! Bring your foot behind you, and whip your leg around to the side. Your leg will look a lot like you are doing the side push, but your toes will be pointed and your shoelaces should be pointing to the front. Ideally, that is where your attacker would be when using this move.
*Kneestrike: Plant your left foot and bring your right knee across your body, and use your arms to meet your knee. Pretend like you are grabbing your attacker's head and bringing it to your knee. Do the same on the other side.
COOL-DOWN Don't forget it! It's just as important as the warm-up!
Just stretch everything that you used!
Remember, this is a very simple, beginner's guide! To describe a complete workout and routine would be entirely too long for a blog. I hope to eventually get to the point where I can teach kickboxing, along with personal training and other exercises! I wish I had time and space to go into more detail and come up with a routine! But you know You better than anyone, so anything I came up with would still just be a guide.
Until next week, Enjoy!
What a great way to officially start this marathon!! This is such a great workout in every aspect; you get your cardio in, your all-around strength training, coordination, and even self defense! Now ladies of the blogging world, tell me that doesn't sound amazing! It's also a lot of fun and boosts your self esteem, not only because you are whipping that butt-er cream into shape, but you'll feel more confident and get to feeling sorry for any loser who would dare mess with you!
My shameless plug of the day, my two teachers of this subject were 1) Silk Manning, and his '80s/$6 DVD that I got off of ebay, and 2) Vanessa Moffett who teaches at South Plains College, and who I really do want to be when I grow up! So this beginner's guide I've come up with comes from both of these people and thank you for your time and instruction!
IMPORTANT: 1) It's always important to warm up and cool-down in any exercise regimen. I will either devote a week to warm-ups and cool-downs or they may come up as a Bonus Post! 2) 90% of kickboxing is kicking and punching, so make sure you take care of, not only your arms and legs, but the power behind them! 3) Have fun! Exercise is always more productive and beneficial when you have fun doing it! A good way to ensure this is to set each workout to music!
WARM UP: Make sure you do an even amount on the left and the right side, and do about 3 or 4 sets of each!
Since I will have a warm-up post, I won't take the room here. Just make sure you focus on stretching out your arms and your legs, and loosening up those shoulders before kickboxing! Since this is a cardio workout, try to do standing stretches, and get moving! Jog in place or jumprope, you're body will thank you later for it.
WORKOUT: I will just give you the basic moves. You can do them in this order, or you can take this and combine them into a You-Specialized workout!! The punches will work your arms, the kicks will work the legs, but for those out for ab crunchers, I'd recommend the Side push kick, Kneestrike, and the Roundhouse kick for your obliques!
For self defense practice, keep your arms up in a guard! This just means your arms are bent and in a guard position, protecting your face, and ready to move into any block/attack you need.
Get that heart rate up! This is a cardio exercise, so make sure you are moving. I like to do the boxer's shuffle throughout a lot of this exercise. This just means you are bouncing on the balls of your feet, shifting your weight from one foot to the other. Use this when you mix your punches together, or transitioning into your next move.
Punches: With doing just one kind of punch, make sure one foot is always slightly forward. Use your hips to drive your punch!
*Jab: With your left foot forward, punch in front of you with your left arm. This one is hard to use your hips, but lean slightly into the punch for a greater effect. Switch to the right, right foot forward, punch with right.
*Cross: Left foot foward, punch forward with your right arm. You will be crossing your body. Rotate the back foot so that you use your hips to energize this punch! Right foot foward, punch with right.
*Hook: Left foot foward, bring your left arm around as if you are punching someone in the side of the face. Rotate your front leg to power this punch with your hips. Right foot foward, punch with right.
*Uppercut: Left foot forward, bring your right arm up, as if punching the attacker in the chin. Rotate the back foot slightly to bring power with your hips. Right foot foward, punch with left.
Kicks: Do your best and forget the rest! Don't worry if your kick isn't as high or as straight as you want. Don't worry if you keep falling out of form! It's not a big deal, just make sure you keep going with your head held high and have fun with it! With any kick, it helps your balance to lean the opposite way you are kicking! (lean back with a front push, lean to the right when side pushing to the left)
*Front push: This is basically a front kick. Act as if you are kicking them in the stomach or chest, or maybe kicking down a door. Knee up, push out foward with your foot, back in, knee down. Keep your foot flexed. (Toes are pulled back/Flat foot)
*Back push: This is the same as the front only instead of kicking foward, you're kicking back, kind of like a mule kick. Foot is flexed.
*Side push: Just as it sounds. Bring your knee up, push out to the side, back in, knee down. Foot is flexed
*Roundhouse: No, you will not be doing a full roundhouse like Chuck Norris if you are a beginner! So this is the modified roundhouse. The foot is not flexed! Point your toes! Bring your foot behind you, and whip your leg around to the side. Your leg will look a lot like you are doing the side push, but your toes will be pointed and your shoelaces should be pointing to the front. Ideally, that is where your attacker would be when using this move.
*Kneestrike: Plant your left foot and bring your right knee across your body, and use your arms to meet your knee. Pretend like you are grabbing your attacker's head and bringing it to your knee. Do the same on the other side.
COOL-DOWN Don't forget it! It's just as important as the warm-up!
Just stretch everything that you used!
Remember, this is a very simple, beginner's guide! To describe a complete workout and routine would be entirely too long for a blog. I hope to eventually get to the point where I can teach kickboxing, along with personal training and other exercises! I wish I had time and space to go into more detail and come up with a routine! But you know You better than anyone, so anything I came up with would still just be a guide.
Until next week, Enjoy!
Monday, February 28, 2011
Bonus Post! - Babe
It's the last day of February! I've decided to officially start this marathon in March, so consider this my warm-up!
For those of you who haven't heard of "Babe" Didrikson Zaharias , she has been said to be the greatest female athlete in the past 100 years; some even say of all time. But more importantly, she is my hero. If I would have known about her 15 years ago, I would have said I want to be her when I grow up.
Her real name was Mildred but her friends called her Babe. She was real handy with a slugger, and was living around the same time as Babe Ruth. Now, this isn't a research post, so if you want to know birth dates and death dates and facts like that, click on her name and read her biography. This is basically a gush post.
"But Samm," you may say, "why is she so awesome?" And that's something I am going to blog about.
If I listed everything she ever did, this would be a ridiculously long post SO, once again, click her link! Also, wikipedia.org is wiki-great!
Golf
She played professionally and won 13 tournaments in a row. Even though this was one of her last sports to pick up, while playing in the men's league, PGA (Professional Golf Association), she teamed up with George Zaharias, whom she later married.
I can't root and toot about her when it comes to golf because I'm not pro at golf, not much of a fan, so the only reason why this makes her awesome is because she was awesome at it.
Basketball
She played in a men's league because there wasn't a women's league back then. She averaged about 20 points in a game. (wow!) She won an All-American status in this sport.
Track and Field
I'm sure in her beginning track stages, she could do every track and field event they had available. However, the ones that made her world-wide famous were the 80 meter hurdles, the javelin throw, and the high jump. She won Olympic gold medals in the first two events, and a silver in the high jump. Now here is where Samm goes off record a bit and speculates: According to corbisimages.com, "Babe was disqualified for what she is doing here--"diving." In those days, regulations specified that a high jumper's feet had to go over the bar first. The rule has since been rescinded. Babe had to settle for a silver medal. Under a special rule for women, Babe was permitted to enter only three events, and he would have won all three if it had not been for the "diving" incident" She was jumping against Jean Smiley. Both jumpers had beat the world record at the time of 5'5". I firmly believe, because I'm highly biased, that had they continued on, Babe would have won the gold medal in that as well. She has been on record of saying that she had "always jumped that way" and no one had ever told her it was wrong or corrected her on it. Note: These are no longer the rules in the high jump. She also broke countless word records in the other events she competed in. (eight out of the ten events).
Football
Notice this one has no picture linked to it. She was the best punter on her football team (Yes, once again playing on a men's team) But she never saw one down because she was a woman. She played for SMU.
Baseball
In this picture, she is pitching (middle pic). She was handy with a bat as well. She played with the all-men, bearded House of David team. Once again, not exactly a baseball guru, so I can't rave here either.
Miscellaneous
She grew up in Beaumont, TEXAS! She was an excellent seamstress and won at the South Texas State Fair with one of her dresses she made. She also made most of the clothes she wore. She typed about 80 words per minute. She was a singer and played the harmonica, and even had a record label. She also performed on the vaudeville circuit. Other sports she played were billiards, and although I haven't found any information on it, I'm sure she skated. Her mother Hannah was an accomplished skater in Norway. She was also an expert diver, and bowler, once bowling a 268. Last but not least, she also played tennis.
WHEW! Time for a breather, what a warm up! Enjoy some quotes from Babe that I thoroughly enjoy:
"I expect to play golf until I am 90--even longer if anybody figures out a way to swing a club from a rocking chair." (She died of colon cancer at 42)
"I was determined to play the game well or not at all."
"You can't win them all -- but you can try."
"That little ball won't move until you hit it, and there's nothing you can do for it after it has gone."
"It's not just enough to swing at the ball. You've got to loosen your girdle and really let the ball have it."
(Babe's when asked how she hits 250 yard drives.)
As Larry Schwartz noted in ESPN.com, when a reporter asked Zaharias if there was anything she didn't play, she answered dryly, "Yeah. Dolls."
And finally, my personal favorite:
"The Babe is here. Who's coming in second?"
More
For those of you who haven't heard of "Babe" Didrikson Zaharias , she has been said to be the greatest female athlete in the past 100 years; some even say of all time. But more importantly, she is my hero. If I would have known about her 15 years ago, I would have said I want to be her when I grow up.
Her real name was Mildred but her friends called her Babe. She was real handy with a slugger, and was living around the same time as Babe Ruth. Now, this isn't a research post, so if you want to know birth dates and death dates and facts like that, click on her name and read her biography. This is basically a gush post.
"But Samm," you may say, "why is she so awesome?" And that's something I am going to blog about.
If I listed everything she ever did, this would be a ridiculously long post SO, once again, click her link! Also, wikipedia.org is wiki-great!
Golf
She played professionally and won 13 tournaments in a row. Even though this was one of her last sports to pick up, while playing in the men's league, PGA (Professional Golf Association), she teamed up with George Zaharias, whom she later married.
I can't root and toot about her when it comes to golf because I'm not pro at golf, not much of a fan, so the only reason why this makes her awesome is because she was awesome at it.
Basketball
She played in a men's league because there wasn't a women's league back then. She averaged about 20 points in a game. (wow!) She won an All-American status in this sport.
Track and Field
I'm sure in her beginning track stages, she could do every track and field event they had available. However, the ones that made her world-wide famous were the 80 meter hurdles, the javelin throw, and the high jump. She won Olympic gold medals in the first two events, and a silver in the high jump. Now here is where Samm goes off record a bit and speculates: According to corbisimages.com, "Babe was disqualified for what she is doing here--"diving." In those days, regulations specified that a high jumper's feet had to go over the bar first. The rule has since been rescinded. Babe had to settle for a silver medal. Under a special rule for women, Babe was permitted to enter only three events, and he would have won all three if it had not been for the "diving" incident" She was jumping against Jean Smiley. Both jumpers had beat the world record at the time of 5'5". I firmly believe, because I'm highly biased, that had they continued on, Babe would have won the gold medal in that as well. She has been on record of saying that she had "always jumped that way" and no one had ever told her it was wrong or corrected her on it. Note: These are no longer the rules in the high jump. She also broke countless word records in the other events she competed in. (eight out of the ten events).
Football
Notice this one has no picture linked to it. She was the best punter on her football team (Yes, once again playing on a men's team) But she never saw one down because she was a woman. She played for SMU.
Baseball
In this picture, she is pitching (middle pic). She was handy with a bat as well. She played with the all-men, bearded House of David team. Once again, not exactly a baseball guru, so I can't rave here either.
Miscellaneous
She grew up in Beaumont, TEXAS! She was an excellent seamstress and won at the South Texas State Fair with one of her dresses she made. She also made most of the clothes she wore. She typed about 80 words per minute. She was a singer and played the harmonica, and even had a record label. She also performed on the vaudeville circuit. Other sports she played were billiards, and although I haven't found any information on it, I'm sure she skated. Her mother Hannah was an accomplished skater in Norway. She was also an expert diver, and bowler, once bowling a 268. Last but not least, she also played tennis.
WHEW! Time for a breather, what a warm up! Enjoy some quotes from Babe that I thoroughly enjoy:
"I expect to play golf until I am 90--even longer if anybody figures out a way to swing a club from a rocking chair." (She died of colon cancer at 42)
"I was determined to play the game well or not at all."
"You can't win them all -- but you can try."
"That little ball won't move until you hit it, and there's nothing you can do for it after it has gone."
"It's not just enough to swing at the ball. You've got to loosen your girdle and really let the ball have it."
(Babe's when asked how she hits 250 yard drives.)
As Larry Schwartz noted in ESPN.com, when a reporter asked Zaharias if there was anything she didn't play, she answered dryly, "Yeah. Dolls."
And finally, my personal favorite:
"The Babe is here. Who's coming in second?"
More
Friday, February 25, 2011
Blogger Marathon!!
This thing is dusty and full of chirping crickets!!
My life is full of phases. When I was a kid, it was hot pink and purple matching sweatpants. When I was in junior high, baggy pants and refusing to wear makeup. High school was decent clothes to look neither flashy nor bland, and never go out the door without makeup on.
I feel like this blog has done that too. "Write everyday!" "Write when something important happens." "Have I not written this month?" "I should probably write.....tomorrow."
So! To get me back in the blogging spirit, I'm starting a project! If there is never a deadline, I eventually fall off that wagon. But if there is an end in sight, I will diligently do things as needs be.
I'm calling it my Blogger Marathon. Once a week, I will be posting information and tips on eating healthy and exercising right! I plan on coming up with easy, short routines that you can do daily; healthy, easy recipes that will make you the best You-version; and some scientific fitness facts that you may not have known!
I'm going to start out by doing this for 3 months (roughly 12 weeks). My first post will be next week, and my last will be the last week of May. (No, this does not accidentally coincide with my wedding week).
This is the minimum. If I feel so inclined to do more in a week, I might, so look for special Bonus Posts!!
My life is full of phases. When I was a kid, it was hot pink and purple matching sweatpants. When I was in junior high, baggy pants and refusing to wear makeup. High school was decent clothes to look neither flashy nor bland, and never go out the door without makeup on.
I feel like this blog has done that too. "Write everyday!" "Write when something important happens." "Have I not written this month?" "I should probably write.....tomorrow."
So! To get me back in the blogging spirit, I'm starting a project! If there is never a deadline, I eventually fall off that wagon. But if there is an end in sight, I will diligently do things as needs be.
I'm calling it my Blogger Marathon. Once a week, I will be posting information and tips on eating healthy and exercising right! I plan on coming up with easy, short routines that you can do daily; healthy, easy recipes that will make you the best You-version; and some scientific fitness facts that you may not have known!
I'm going to start out by doing this for 3 months (roughly 12 weeks). My first post will be next week, and my last will be the last week of May. (No, this does not accidentally coincide with my wedding week).
This is the minimum. If I feel so inclined to do more in a week, I might, so look for special Bonus Posts!!
Monday, January 10, 2011
Mrs. Rogers
I have engagement-itis. I'm ready to be married already. I was ready in December, but the wedding wasn't, and neither was his family, seeing as how they were attending another family member's wedding. There were many contributing factors to why we changed the date of the wedding, and we are glad we did in almost every sense. We are just ready to start our lives together. I'm sick of having to go home at night, when I'd rather already be home. Right now, we spend all of our freetime together, but when I have to leave, it feels like I'm going to stay at Nana's house. Still family! But not really home, anymore. Spencer is my home. But not yet!, why? Because we aren't married yet. I don't know. It's not that far away now, but we're just ready.
Anyway, I got a new email address and a Twitter account. I know, I never wanted to but here I am. Both under the name of Samantha Rogers, or missesrogers. (That's my Twitter, follow me! ;) )
Anyway, there is the BCS National Championship game tonight. Oregon vs Auburn and I am way excited! Not only for the game, but also because I am throwing my first of many football parties. I know Spencer won't initiate it because he doesn't know what I want, and that boy nearly always does what I want. It's not really fair. So, in order to make up for it, I do things like throw a Bowl watching party. I'm homemaking buffalo wings, he's making queso, and we both already made salsa (which is currently in the fridge, marinating into a spicy frenzy that would clear anyone's sinuses.) For Christmas, I got him a Texas Tech football helmet serving dish that we are both psyched to use. It's going to be great!
Anyway, I got a new email address and a Twitter account. I know, I never wanted to but here I am. Both under the name of Samantha Rogers, or missesrogers. (That's my Twitter, follow me! ;) )
Anyway, there is the BCS National Championship game tonight. Oregon vs Auburn and I am way excited! Not only for the game, but also because I am throwing my first of many football parties. I know Spencer won't initiate it because he doesn't know what I want, and that boy nearly always does what I want. It's not really fair. So, in order to make up for it, I do things like throw a Bowl watching party. I'm homemaking buffalo wings, he's making queso, and we both already made salsa (which is currently in the fridge, marinating into a spicy frenzy that would clear anyone's sinuses.) For Christmas, I got him a Texas Tech football helmet serving dish that we are both psyched to use. It's going to be great!
Friday, January 7, 2011
Mind Jogging
So I've been thinking. My brain needs exercise. I know that probably sounds really weird, but it just feels like 'jogging', so for this absolutely random post, I'm going to indulge in that desire. I know this sounds extremely odd and corny, and that this entire post may sound like a starving artist, but sometimes, ya just need to -run- with it.
Peace. Hope. Joy. Ire. Sadness. Irony. Love.
Umbrella. This makes me think of rain. I love it when it rains, especially on a warm summer day, when it's extremely hot, even though the sun is behind the clouds. Then the rain starts falling, and even though you are hot, it cools you down to perfection. In that moment, there is nothing that you want more than to sit there all day and feel the rain on your face. The smell of rain clears your head and helps you think clearly. The lightning sparks your sense and makes you feel as though you are small, yet important all at the same time. The rainbow afterwards is pleasing to the soul and lets you know that this life is worth living. There is good in the world and nothing can take that away from you.
Butterfly. This makes me think of their wings. The intricate designs on each delicate wing make you know that this world, this life, was not an accident. There is a Creator. Watching them flutter by is so peaceful. They are flying, which to us makes us think they are defying gravity, but it's the opposite; it's natural and exactly the way it should be. They fly from flower to flower without a care in the world except to carry with them the necessity to make this world a more beautiful place. Innocence. One tiny touch can ruin their design, and one more could ruin their flight forever. Tenderness.
Play-doh. This makes me think of children. A lot of people think of children as snot-nosed brats that get in the way. This is not true. In fact, I think that about some adults sometimes. Often, those people, and that thought of mine, coincide. To play of a fair field, my children. I haven't been blessed with children yet, but it is a desire that I long for in the future. Nine months of labor to bond with my child, carrying it around at all times. Feeling the nudges would be like getting a baby message, "Mommy, I'm still here. I'll be there soon. In the meantime, I'm enjoying this time with you. Thank you for sharing your body with me", which may sound creepy to some people, but only due to the media. After successfully bringing them into the world, seeing their face for the first time is the most rewarding. The second most rewarding would be seeing the father's face when he sees is baby for the first time. There's no greater joy than an eternal family.
Pig. I think of my coworker. That thought alone makes me fume at the ears.
Headache. This makes me think of excruciating pain. A thousand hammers pounding on the wall on your day off from work. You are at home in your PJs watching your favorite show and eating comfort food, and all you can hear are the thousand of hammers pounding in your eardrums. The noise, the pain. The spoiling factor of what should have been a perfect day. Perfect. Like the Savior. Hammer. Nails. Nailed to the cross. The cruelty of those the crucified our Savior. Our Redeemer. Who did the most good for this world of anyone who walked it. Imagine watching your best friend tormented and sent to die. Your brother. After giving you the only thing that could help you return to live with your Father.
I find it ironic that I can have two such opposite thoughts in the same brain. The first going against everything that the second stands for. I'm about at the point where my brain has had it's workout. Time for a cool down.
Spencer. All I can think is how happy I have been for the past 11 months. The timing was nothing short of perfect. He always says I'm perfect, and I always have to correct him by saying "Perfect for you". Well he is perfect for me as well. If I could, I would have married him six months ago. I grow to love him more everyday, and right when I think that I can't love him more, I find that I can the very next day. Happy 11th monthiversary Spencer. ;) Here's more irony. He was the one that remembered. lol
Alright, I'm done. This was my lazy exercise, wanting to work out my brain but not having any specific topic to write about. Forgive my corniness. I'll have a more sensible post soon!
Peace. Hope. Joy. Ire. Sadness. Irony. Love.
Umbrella. This makes me think of rain. I love it when it rains, especially on a warm summer day, when it's extremely hot, even though the sun is behind the clouds. Then the rain starts falling, and even though you are hot, it cools you down to perfection. In that moment, there is nothing that you want more than to sit there all day and feel the rain on your face. The smell of rain clears your head and helps you think clearly. The lightning sparks your sense and makes you feel as though you are small, yet important all at the same time. The rainbow afterwards is pleasing to the soul and lets you know that this life is worth living. There is good in the world and nothing can take that away from you.
Butterfly. This makes me think of their wings. The intricate designs on each delicate wing make you know that this world, this life, was not an accident. There is a Creator. Watching them flutter by is so peaceful. They are flying, which to us makes us think they are defying gravity, but it's the opposite; it's natural and exactly the way it should be. They fly from flower to flower without a care in the world except to carry with them the necessity to make this world a more beautiful place. Innocence. One tiny touch can ruin their design, and one more could ruin their flight forever. Tenderness.
Play-doh. This makes me think of children. A lot of people think of children as snot-nosed brats that get in the way. This is not true. In fact, I think that about some adults sometimes. Often, those people, and that thought of mine, coincide. To play of a fair field, my children. I haven't been blessed with children yet, but it is a desire that I long for in the future. Nine months of labor to bond with my child, carrying it around at all times. Feeling the nudges would be like getting a baby message, "Mommy, I'm still here. I'll be there soon. In the meantime, I'm enjoying this time with you. Thank you for sharing your body with me", which may sound creepy to some people, but only due to the media. After successfully bringing them into the world, seeing their face for the first time is the most rewarding. The second most rewarding would be seeing the father's face when he sees is baby for the first time. There's no greater joy than an eternal family.
Pig. I think of my coworker. That thought alone makes me fume at the ears.
Headache. This makes me think of excruciating pain. A thousand hammers pounding on the wall on your day off from work. You are at home in your PJs watching your favorite show and eating comfort food, and all you can hear are the thousand of hammers pounding in your eardrums. The noise, the pain. The spoiling factor of what should have been a perfect day. Perfect. Like the Savior. Hammer. Nails. Nailed to the cross. The cruelty of those the crucified our Savior. Our Redeemer. Who did the most good for this world of anyone who walked it. Imagine watching your best friend tormented and sent to die. Your brother. After giving you the only thing that could help you return to live with your Father.
I find it ironic that I can have two such opposite thoughts in the same brain. The first going against everything that the second stands for. I'm about at the point where my brain has had it's workout. Time for a cool down.
Spencer. All I can think is how happy I have been for the past 11 months. The timing was nothing short of perfect. He always says I'm perfect, and I always have to correct him by saying "Perfect for you". Well he is perfect for me as well. If I could, I would have married him six months ago. I grow to love him more everyday, and right when I think that I can't love him more, I find that I can the very next day. Happy 11th monthiversary Spencer. ;) Here's more irony. He was the one that remembered. lol
Alright, I'm done. This was my lazy exercise, wanting to work out my brain but not having any specific topic to write about. Forgive my corniness. I'll have a more sensible post soon!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)