Happy Monday friends! I hope everyone had a nice weekend. Mine was very enjoyable. I met my friend for our monthly breakfast where we hash through the current woes of our country (and the list seems neverending) but still try to be encouraging to each other…all while ignoring those pesky calorie counts that are now included on all menus. We just enjoy all the breakfast goodness. My husband and I also did some antique browsing and then turned another blind eye to nutrition facts and had a lovely lunch. Today, it is back to right eating and I am hoping to increase the distance on my morning walks. We will see how that goes.
But I thought I would start the week, here on the blog, with a monthly daybook entry. I noticed that I did not get one posted in July. Not sure what happened and here it is the middle of August. Not need to procrastinate or I’ll miss another month. So, let me jump right in…
The Weather – has been absolutely splendid! Especially in the mornings. The sun is low in the sky, the humidity is next to nothing and I am in my happy zone! The rain has been very infrequent but, when it does come, it is so scattered. And random. I can be at the store and the sky will open (for about ten minutes) but when I get the two miles home, it is dry as a bone. One evening, I was walking and thought I was going to get caught in a storm. I did get a few drops but actually missed the storm – by two houses! In this photo, I am standing on my porch and that haziness down the street is literally a downpour. My yard did not get a drop. So weird and so cool, all at the same time!
As I look outside my window – I seek my sad crape mrytle (or crepe mrytle, whichever you prefer) tree. This is the same tree that I mentioned in June’s daybook. I was waiting and waiting for it to bloom. And we are still waiting. Actually, we have finally admitted defeat. She is not going to burst out in pink color this year…and we have no idea why?? It has maybe three blooms on the top but basically is just a huge green non-bloomer. Sigh. My husband and I have been so disappointed. I will say, many in the neighborhood did not bloom this year; however, there are enough that are covered in color to make us feel cheated.
This morning, I am – not joining my husband for his monthly men’s breakfast. Yes, for the men but the wives usually tag along and have their own, separate little chat over eggs. But I decided to sit this one out. I am looking forward to a morning at home – a reset, of sorts – and I plan to enjoy a slow morning. An extra long walk. Extra time in His word. And just some time with the house to myself:)
Lately, I have been thinking about – my brother. He recently moved to California…after having lived here on the East Coast for several years. I loved having him close by. Loved it. I was really upset when I found out he was moving and I have really been missing him. But he seems very happy. I am thrilled for him. His situation there is….well, unique. I still have some reservations (quite a few of them, truthfully) but things seem to be going well. His birthday was on Wednesday. I pray it was the beginning of a great year ahead for him.
On the menu this week – I am looking for a yummy dessert. This Sunday will be our monthly church fellowship and I usually take a dessert. I would like to take something “new” this week. Something different or a bit unique. Not necessarily looking for wow factor but just something I have not made before and that will be really yummy. What will it be??
What I’m wearing – a few things that have did not fit a few months ago. I have not lost much weight but apparently walking every day does make a difference. Who could have imagined??:)
I’m looking around the house – and my kitchen cabinets are looking so nice. They are painted cabinets and, although we try hard to only use the knobs, etc., they do get knicks and little scratches. Honestly, these are really only noticeable to us. For the most part. However, we (read that, my hubbie) got around to touching them all up last week. And giving them a good wipe down. He also touched up the doors (their wear and tear bothers me as well) and now everything looks clean. And fresh:) We also picked up some paint samples to repaint our bathroom cabinets. We are changing the paint color on these cabinets (not just touch-ups) and it will take at least three more trips to the store for paint sample extravaganza before that project begins.
My To-Do List – is to walk three miles every morning this week. Yes, three miles. Which for non-exercising me is the eqivalent of running a marathon. I, honestly, cannot believe that I have been walking 2 1/2 miles each morning. And (almost) enjoying it. The additional half mile does not sound like much but I was noticing the difference in distance when we drove home from church this evening and, well, it looks far! And, if you are laughing…that’s okay. I know it sounds a bit dramatic but, for me, it is a big deal. Wish me luck.
And, from my camera. Here is a picture of my brother celebrating his birthday. Not a fancy shot…but he looks very happy there. He had dinner at the Walnut Creek Yacht Club. If you are ever in that area of California, he highly recommends it:) Well, friends…thanks again for stopping by today. I look forward to getting around to your blogs and catching up – hopefully during this quiet Monday at home:) I hope everyone has a wonderful week ahead.
Good morning Jennifer. I enjoyed reading your post. Good for you on your walking. I need to get back to walking more often and definitely probably a longer distance. I’m usually only doing a mile at most. Your post is inspiring me to add some more distance to my walks. I think 2 1/2 to 3 miles is a lot and something you can be really proud of. I hope all goes well with your brother. Have you ever tried, Paula Deen’s “Not Yo’ Mama’s Banana Pudding? It’s really good and looks pretty and it’s pretty simple to make. You can find the recipe on the internet. I hope you are enjoying your morning at home.
I do not think I have tried Paula Deen’s recipe – but I DO love banana pudding!! I think that might be a great idea…thanks, Cathy!!
Nice catch up post! Glad to hear that you are out and about spending time with friends, your hubby and exercising so much. I am not shocked that the latter is growing on you (figuratively, as you are shrinking, lol). Studies have shown that those who exercise regularly are generally healthier mentally and physically than those who don´t. It´s a win-win even though I know that sometimes, many times, sitting at home sounds more appealing than making yourself get and move. I am sorry to hear that your brother moved so far away. It seems like you guys are close; I know how hard it is to have siblings live far away. Have a great Monday!
My brother and I are close. Well, not literally anymore. Of all the places to move, he goes to the other side of the country!! It has been sad for me but I am glad he is so happy!! Thanks for the good reminder to keep walking!!
The morning you have planned sounds so lovely, Jennifer.
I’m glad that you had those wonderful years with your brother close by when he lived on the east coast. But I also understand how you miss him now that he’s moved. Great picture of him.
Congratulations on increasing your walk by half a mile! That’s awesome!
Thanks Dianna! I really liked that candid snapshot of my brother:)
I can really understand how much longer 3 miles can seem against 2 1/2 – but soon 3 miles will just seem your normal distance! Well done, that’s an impressive morning walk.
I can imagine how much you must be missing your brother after having him close to hand for years, I hope he’s good at keeping in touch!
I hope your morning was as good as you had planned – a good start to the week!
Glad you stopped by, Deb! Thanks for your comment..and, yes, my brother is pretty good with keeping in touch. I am grateful for that!!