Day 109 – Honey

Today was hectic but a very good day. Tonight, while at the store I had to buy some honey (I go through it like water!). Instead of my regular local brand, I decided to step outside the box and buy a German imported mountain flower honey. Heather and I are cousins through our dads. Our dads are of German descent.  I thought to myself how neat it was that this random item I was going to purchase put Heather in my mind. German honey….and there she was. I love that.

Anyhow, the honey looked very unique. I use honey on so many things: coffee, toast, oatmeal, homemade hair masks I make, etc . This honey’s color was very different, almost the color of a honey mustard. Usually the honey I buy is a dark, amber color. The glass container it came in had a “hive” like pattern around the sides and back which I thought was super neat as well.

Anyhow, two times I literally picked it up, examined it and put it back. Sometimes it’s the smallest things we just don’t want to step out of our comfort zone with. Well, I decided to pick it up and put it in my basket. I wanted this to be my intention. Although this may seem a silly or whatever, it was kind of a big deal to me cause I consume honey on a daily basis (sometimes multiple times a day).

I got home and although it was later this evening, I couldn’t wait to try it. Let me say… this is the BEST honey I have ever had! And to think – all because of this blog, because of Heather, because of our shared (½) German descent. #HGAL #honeylove

Day 108 – Zumba

All day I looked forward to today’s Zumba intention. I went to an early evening class. I love the beat, the sassy vibe, the mixture of salsa and hip hop moves and the music that make Zumba what it is. I love that there is such a wide variety of people and fitness levels in any Zumba class I’ve ever taken. It is just pure fun. I love the fact that during the class I find myself smiling constantly, actually not smiling…cheesin!! Lol

I have been participating in Zumba classes for quite a few years now but have not gone as regularly since moving here. Although I take a variety of classes, Zumba is by far my favorite and I think I will go back to doing more Zumba classes than the others.

I had a really good day today and today’s Zumba intention was an awesome addition! #HGAL

Day 107 – Reprogram

There is a lovely saying that goes like this:

“The happiness of your life depends upon the quality of your thoughts”

This is not to say that things don’t happen that make people sad, mad or whatever. Emotions are valid but it’s what we choose to do with our emotions that builds our character. Sometimes it is best to stand up for yourself. Sometimes it’s best to say nothing at all. What I feel this saying truly means is the one thing we are in complete control of is our own mind- our own thoughts.

When we have a bad day, wake up on the wrong side of the bed or have others rub us the wrong way, it is a choice how far inside we let it penetrate. I have always been a person who absolutely makes lemonade from lemons or sees the glass as half full. So when I have a bad moment, or deal with a raunchy individual or situation, I choose to “reprogram” my thoughts and emotions versus letting the negativity penetrate my soul.

Today I had one of those moments. When faced with an unpleasant situation- I went directly to the beach. As I felt the sand between my toes as I walked the beach, I called loved ones. I talked to them on the phone while breathing in the ocean air and taking in the beautiful views. After I got off the phone, I made sure to take a moment just for me. A moment to think about Heather, to think about my children, my amazing husband and those I love most and just be grateful for that exact moment.

I left refreshed. I came home, ordered take out, popped the cork on my new favorite wine and went out to the deck to just unwind and breathe. My view is beautiful and so is this day. I am blessed in so many ways and am thankful for so much.

Day 106 – Cartoon Comparison

As my family and I enjoyed our evening conversation over dinner, I came up with what my intention for the day would be. I asked them the question, “If I was a cartoon character- which one would I be and why?” Elijah immediately within seconds said “Nala and Vinny is Simba from the Lion King.” I asked him why and he said, “Because you are so nice but will stand up for yourself in a second. And Vinny because he would do anything for his family and has overcome all the challenges in his life.”

I literally just sat there quiet for a few, shocked and honored at his immediate reply to a question he had no time to contemplate. I thought that was such a great cartoon to compare us to.

So then it was Vinny’s turn. He said I was Wilma Flintstone because of my constant love and patience, that I keep the house running smoothly and keep him in line the way Wilma did Fred. Elijah and I just started laughing at that one- it was a good one and totally dead on.

I called my oldest son Brian and he immediately said “Betty Boop”- he said he didn’t know why but that he instantly thought of her for me, which I took as a true compliment cause she’s a cute, sassy diva! Love that!! We talked for a while more, than I called my middle son Micah.

Micah and I had a great conversation. Then I asked him the same question. He thought for a minute and said “Cinderella”. I started laughing and said why? He said “No matter what happened to you all the years, you always have a positive attitude and always do good in your life, plus you’re always cleaning. Then you got blessed with us 3 boys and Vinny.” I was laughing at how precious that was and told him how much that fills my heart and how awesome that was in every way.

I must admit- this was a fun and random intention that has left me feeling proud and happy. I know my family adores me but it’s the times like this that I truly treasure and enjoy. #HGAL #proudmomma #cartoonme

 

Day 105 – Flea Market Finds

Today we decided to go to a flea market that we heard about yesterday- to see if we could find a couple of pieces to refinish and sell at my booth since recent sales have left it quite depleted (yay). Normally I would go to yard sales, CL, consignment or antique shops to find pieces but for today’s intention I decided to give this a whirl.

Of course, Vinny and I had so much fun boppin around looking at all the random items and antiques that were offered in this large area. We had conversations with some folks and just had a really good time hanging out and searching around. It kind of feels like a treasure hunt and when we finally get that perfect item, it is instantly rewarding. I start planning out exactly what will be done to it to change it and make it pretty and Vinny figures out how to fit it in the car- hahaha.

Well, I am happy to report that it worked out perfectly because we found 2 tables, both with good bones, which is so important. The "before" pictures are below. I plan to refinish them to give them a shabby chic/French provincial appearance and they should both sell quickly. I am glad someone I know advised me of this flea market because we weren’t even there long and found some real diamonds in the rough! I love the business I am so lucky to be a part of and am so happy that my pieces seem to be so well received in my new area!! #HGAL #loveSundays

 

 

Day 104 – Vineyard Pop In

I can’t believe this is the last weekend of April. This year is already going so fast! Thinking of how much time really does “fly” makes me all the more so appreciative of this blog and each day’s treasured intention.

Today we were up and at ‘em nice and early. I made a nice breakfast for the fam, the sun was out and although there was still a bit of chill in the air- I was so very grateful for the abundant sunshine. Vinny and I went out to run some mid-morning errands. While we were out, we noticed a ton of cars in the parking lot for the vineyard not far from our home. I said to Vinny, “Hey, for my intention we should just pop in to whatever that is.” So in we pulled.

There is normally a Saturday afternoon farmers market there but today there were so many cars I just knew it had to be more- and it was! The vineyard was having a Spring event that was pretty massive. There were people everywhere, an outside BBQ out back and tons of local booths set up with everything from herbs and plants to eggs and breads for sale, not to mention the wine tastings. The atmosphere was light, everyone was laughing and carrying on, music was in the background and happiness in the air.

After we were done there, we wandered into a nearby bakery. I wanted a cannoli but decided to try something that I have actually never had….a Bon Bon. I know, it’s probably a little odd that I’ve never had one but I really haven’t. It was heavenly!!! Vinny got a Tiramisu that was wrapped in ladyfingers which we have never seen made like that before and that too was unbelievably divine. Eating those treats and drinking our hot coffee - we were just loving our Saturday. But it wasn’t even half over.

With my intention complete, we then stopped at home to pick up Elijah and headed into a town just outside of Providence. We went to the mall, out to an early dinner at Buffalo Wild Wings (my pick- yummy) and then to the movies. Yes, yes, yes…this was a great day!

#hastalavistaApril #bringitonMay #HGAL365

 

 

 

Day 103 – Crossword Fun

This week although good was so busy. After dinner tonight I found myself just wanting to rest and relax. We sat down and Vinny, Elijah and I were planning out our weekend and talking and thinking of watching a movie or whatever for tonight. I said "I have an idea- let’s do a crossword puzzle together". I bought the book of puzzles a couple years ago and have only done a few here and there and it was put away in a drawer.

So we did the crossword together and it was actually pretty fun. The three of us trying to put our heads together to come up with answers and even calling out some silly answers just to have a little laugh. Although it was a fairly quick intention – it was fun to do something different together. Happy Friday! #HGAL

 

Day 102 – Living Room Picnic

In honor of today being National Picnic Day, we had our dinner tonight living room picnic style. I covered our coffee table with a pretty blanket, lit some candles and put a little ceramic birdie on the spread for an added touch. I neatly arranged our food and drinks. We had salad, Cape Cod pizza (my FAVE!!) and some French bread and butter. I stopped for the carrot cake I am still obsessed with and that was our dessert.

Have I mentioned how much I am totally loving all of these specialized National Days? Lol- Seriously I never knew there were so many- it’s nuts!!

I mentioned to Vinny that this was for my blogs daily intention and as usual he was immediately on board. He mentioned that the setup was very pretty and he thought it was a great idea. I so appreciate his willingness and assistance in all these random things I have been incorporating into our lives, in honor of Heather.

Now as my day winds down, we are getting ready to relax and enjoy a movie. Today was a great day and this intention was a pleasant and enjoyable way to wrap it up. #HGAL

Day 101- Planting Project

Happy Earth Day! I am happy to report that my family does recycle. I use canvas bags for some of my grocery trips, we are conscious of turning off the water while brushing our teeth and try to stay aware of our choices where we can- in helping to preserve and improve the health of this lovely earth. I buy local produce, meat and eggs and enjoy shopping at local farmers markets as well.

Today was very busy for me and I was not able to attend the Earth Day Soiree here in Newport. I got everything done that I needed to and made time to attend my Zumba class which was so much fun! It really was a good day through and through.

Meanwhile, my son has had a project he needed to complete for his Biology Honors class. For my intention (how fitting that today of all days) I offered to assist him with a project that involved the planting of multiple seeds. He will be comparing the growth of these seedlings between those planted in natural surroundings and those planted in a plastic egg container. There is more to the project but this is the gist of it.

I talked to him a bit while we were working about this day being Earth Day and what that means. Truly every day should be Earth Day to each of us, in hopes that all choices we make today create a better world for tomorrow. #HGAL #lovethisbeautifulplanet

Day 100 – Footprints in the Sand

What a milestone! 100 days of this blog has already gone so fast. So much healing… so much growth… so much love… so much emotion. I think Heather would be so very proud of what I’m doing in her honor. I think she would get a kick out of it actually. As for me, I am proud of this past 100 days and wholeheartedly look forward to the next 265.

I went to the beach today. I actually went there to enjoy and breathe in the balmy, moist air and feel the breeze and soak in the ocean vibe and vibrant sunshine. I was actually trying to come up with something clever to do for the 100^th day of this blog. But as I was walking barefoot in the sand and looking at all the other footprints along the way it got me thinking. Life is so bizarre…here one minute- gone the next just as these footprints awaiting the inevitable high tide. I am not spending my time wrapped in sadness that Heather has passed (although I have and do allow myself to grieve). I choose to spend my time, and this 365 days celebrating her life- remembering and honoring our memories and who she was and intentionally appreciating the life I am blessed with.

Today, she is here with me because she is on my mind. This is the perfect intention actually. So in the sand, above my footprints I wrote in her initials to intentionally bring her directly into my moment. As I walked on, I saw an untouched patch of sand and wrote another one. As I was walking, I found myself smiling. I was thinking of all the people this blog has touched that never got to meet Heather’s precious soul that know all about her because of this blog. Her memory will live on for a long, long time with the people that were lucky enough to have known her as well as those that are learning about her now. That warms my heart today and always. #HGAL