Sunday, July 30, 2017

On the Daily

"Hmmm, what'll it be today? I don't think the words 'cranky, exhausted or stressed' are strong starters," I say to the Mister, a thin black Sharpie poised above my palm.

It was Monday morning. The kids hadn't slept in weeks, deadlines were looming and the grind of long commutes, sports practices and everyday life were upon us. And although it had been a mostly enjoyable weekend that included hugs, long bedtime stories, laughter and time outdoors, it was already almost as if they hadn't happened at all.

Many work weeks started like that, and ended with me having zero energy for my beloved family. Something needed to change, and quick.

The best place to start? The ol' noggin.

I began to ask myself and others: How do I set positive intent for the day? What can I do to revisit it when fatigue or challenges try to get in the way of it? Why is it so damn hard to live this utopic life others dream of and just be grateful for it? Where's the perspective?

As usual, A had the answer. Earthy, experienced and Zen, she shared her trick of writing one word on her palm in the morning that sets her attitude and intent for the day. Frequently she shared she wrote, "fierce, calm, productive" or "joyful." Between her tough boss, teenagers and needy clients, she found this subtle reminder she can visit in as simple as grabbing a sip of water a motivating way to stay in the positive zone.

If something like that is helpful for the already cool-as-a-cucumber A, it could work for me too.

Week one I had trouble committing to just one word (I'm a marketer - we're women of much fluff). So I scribbled a small acronym that highlighted where I'd like my mind and heart to settle in for the day. Several weeks later, I was down to one or switching it to two, depending on what the soul needed in the moment. Words on my palm frequently include things like chill, authentic, love hard or energy. And while it isn't so much about the act of placing ink to skin, it's a nice way to trick your body into taking a meditative moment to set positive intent for the day. And to revisit it when things got off track.

So while this isn't the holistic good eating, drink enough water, sleep more than four hours per night and get time to yourself kind of self care, it's an attainable, inspiring one that keeps me going.

What about you? What inspires or sets your intent for the day? Or, what is your word, for today?

The Skinny on the Anni

"That's right - opening day, right at noon. I'll be there!" I shared excitedly to my gal pal on the phone, fully knowing that as a non-card holder, the situation would already be dire.

Luckily a few bloggers and friends had gone before me, reporting a less thrilling Nordy's Anni Sale than years past, which was both a beautiful and sad thing. Nice in that some dough can be saved and bummer in that the thrill of that fall fashion find was probably not going to be a reality this year. My husband and stack of mounting healthcare bills probably lean toward a mini celebration.

With a pen and paper in one hand and laptop balanced on a soft pillow, I studied Nordstrom.com with the kind of ferocity one does months before the Bar exam. Skipping the clothes almost altogether (hello, carrying around an extra 55 pounds and accessories always fit), I created my wish list between post-its and Pinterest. And when that Friday came around, I went in for the kill. With one hour to invest, it went purses, jewels, shoes, kids and home goods. Here's what I left with:
A pretty little something to add a touch of sparkle for day or night
Vince Camuto cross body that's just the right size and a unique,
gray brown to pair with any fall/winter ensemble

Ugg sneaks in a perfect neutral for fall that scream comfort and style
Teeny CZ studs that sparkle and are sized as if they were real

Copper mug, for those evenings that call for  a Moscow Mule

A cozy throw for the days I spend typing away in the home office

In these boxes were also a few Under Armor pieces for the boys. The scented candle, Zella leggings, plum jacket and a few other favs were left behind thanks to budgeting reasons.

So overall, not too shabby. Because come Anni sale or any time in between, Nordy's is top notch.

What did you bring home in your lovely, yellow-box themed sacks?