Summer

A few more days of sun will be nice :)

Another Day

"Afresh I seek thee, Lead me-once more I pray-
Even should it be against my will, thy way.
Let me not feel thee [Lord] foreign any hour.
Or shrink from thee as an estranged power.
Through doubt, through faith, through bliss, through stark dismay,
Through sunshine, wind, or snow, or fog or shower,
Draw me to thee who art my only day."
George MacDonald
Diary Of An Old Soul
I don't want to be so selfish as to make my friends death about me. I have, however, realized that his passing has made me examine-naturally-my life. He had everything...he lived. I see that I have failed to step out in trusting my God. I live for Him but not wholly by Him. I will start.

Loss

Thinking of a dear friend who passed away last night.
"God, help me, dull of heart, to trust in thee.
Thou art the Father of me-not any mood
Can part me from the One, the verily Good.
When fog and failure o'er my being  brood,
When life looks but a glimmering marshy clod,
No fire out flashing from the living God-
Then, then, to rest in faith were worthy victory!"
George MacDonald
Diary of an Old Soul

Slowing down

Things are just starting to slow down; finally. I have purchased at least 6 new (used) books in hopes of getting quiet time. I have purged my house of junk-which was actually very cleansing emotionally :) I have been able to sleep-in at least twice. I had a one night camping experience with some family members, first time in at least 20 yrs. And, I plan on taking a week off in August...I hope to paint more, make a dent in those books I picked up, accomplish more organizing and get to the ocean.

Keeping Busy

Things to do- Spring Cleaning
Things to look forward to-Summer Vacation
Things to complete-Reading Several unfinished books
Things to enjoy-Painting, Walking, Relaxing

Eagles

I went for a walk Saturday and noticed some high-flying birds. They were Eagles; usually only one is seen at a time, but I saw at least five.  
On Sunday I went for a walk along a trail I had been wanting to explore for some time. I went with a girl friend of mine and discovered a great painting spot. Now I will finally get to use my new easel.

Spring

Just a neat image that makes me think of Spring.

Interests

I have a number of George MacDonald's books one of which I purchased years ago but just recently made the time to read it. So far it has been an intriguing fantasy both beautiful and wholesome. I'm only on chapter four so I'll update more later.

Wedding

Dress shopping was quick and painless, at least for my sis. Have yet to purchase mine; her wedding is in a few weeks so I'll be cutting it short. Aside from the new eating plan, which I have been faithful to adhere to, I am back to painting. I just had a birthday and requested a new easel & canvas which I got but had a bonus of new paints as well. 

Update

To myself...
Good job. Down 25 pounds and one pant size in 2 months to the day! You are awesome!
: D

Can't Complain

My healthy eating plan is going strong. I haven't given up on my resolution despite some challenges. There was a week when a huge snow storm blew through and come snow, ice, power outage (6 days) and basically being transient; as I was in survival mode, I did not cheat. In addition we have had a few gatherings including a very deliciously-snacked-out Superbowl party and I still stayed the course.
My inspiration has been the long-term goal. I really want a life-style change and I am determined to do well. My support has defiantly been friends and family and though I have had to be vulnerable,  it's benefited me.
Now I just need to figure out how to schedule in some time to exercise. Must get a routine...

'think I got it

a) so I'm gonna get healthy & fit- I said it- I am committed. I think my challenge is being motivated to exercise. My support system is going to be Atkins.
b) keep it up-I want to maintain all the progress I made in 2011 (especially in my finances)
c)stay open-I have to keep my eyes open- I feel like there's something else for me to work out/ work on...

Resolutions?

Had a great Christmas break!
Now...thinking about how to get 2012 started off on the right foot.
I've been grilling friends and relatives about their goals so I can get some ideas as to my own. My problem isn't what to work-on its where to focus my attention. I have no shortage of improvements to be made.
I'm thinking maybe a top-10-list though as I'm thinking I'm already shortening it to top-5-list.
That's sad, (but do-able).
To Be Continued~