An Acoustic Spa

I rely on music to get me through my work day. After clinic, I typically head back to the office to catch up on dictations and a never ending stack of paperwork. Between my office mate and I, we have quite an eclectic array of acoustic entertainment. Depending on the vibe of the work day, musical artists and genres can range from Lauryn Hill (a popular favorite) to Celtic traditional. I found a new favorite that has us on a roll today (despite this brief informative diversion). So with that, I leave you with Mr. Jim Brickman, an incredibly talented solo pianist who will blow you away!

Smiling because...

...the Bachelorette comes on tonight. I swore that I wouldn't watch this season, but somehow I got sucked in!! Drama, drama, drama. I mean, seriously "tattoo man" ?

...I'm playing raquetball after work. I havn't been on the court in several months and can't wait to attempt some kill shots. J always mutilates me, but I'll get him back when we hit the treadmills ;)

..it's raining. There's just something so cozy about it.

... we have our first premarital counseling session this week!! Can't wait to go to the Lord and see how He'll bless our marriage. We love our Pastor and are mighty glad to call St. Timothy's our home church.

... I love Google reader. So many idea, so much inspiration, such a good way to keep in touch!

... dinner tonight is Island Pork tenderloin with a sweet potato, red onion, and pineapple medley. Frozen yogurt for dessert!

...life is good :)

Pick-me-ups

It's been a long, stressful week. I try my best to keep a good attitude, but sometimes the going gets tough. The past couple weeks at work have been especially challenging and I was so thrilled for a much needed and impromptu pick-me-up. In true fashion J knew exactly how to turn the day around. A brisk walk with spurts of jogging would unveil some much needed endorphins. An empty water bottle later we were in search of a more exciting beverage. This just so happened to come in the form of a dollar fifty Budweiser at a venue featuring live music to the tune of Jamie Carroll. We were lucky enough to score this talented musician to play at our wedding reception. Hearing his voice and watching him perform is truly a treat. It was so wonderful to be scooped up and rescued from a funk. Even in the simplest form, finding a little bit of T.L.C. can make a a huge difference.

Balance

There was a time when I would practice yoga 3 times a week. I would work myself into challenging poses and sustain position with focus and grace. The combination of the hundred degree room and my all out effort to reach my limit would leave me begging for more. The sense of accomplishment and astonishment of what my body could do was nothing short of fulfilling.

There was a time when I could run and run to no end. After 6 or 7 miles I'd be through with my warm-up, ready to settle into my stride and set myself on auto-pilot. I'd wrap up a 15 mile run, chug some water, and head back outside to play. There was no limit to my energy, no stop to this passion, and only the rare, petty resistance.

There was a time when I would lift heavy weights 3 times a week with my personal trainer. Our 90 minute sessions offered the perfect ratio of lactic-acid producing moves interspersed with burpees, sprints, and other ominous cardiovascular tasks. The end of these workouts would literally leave me shaking. I would then treat my deserving muscles to a protein shake and a warm bath. My strength was at its peak.

I feel nostalgic when I think about what by body could do. The last several months have been overbooked with 2 jobs, "extracurricular obligations," planning for the future and more. My busy schedule in conjunction with the summer heat has provided way too many excuses and diversions from my normal routine. I hate that I can only run 3 or 4 miles before giving in to boredom. I hate that my favorite yoga studio closed and regret not jumping right back into practice. I hate that my lifting is not quite as consistent and I've peaked at one unassisted pull-up.

The easiest thing to do would be to throw in the towel and settle for my newer, more sedentary routine. Let's be clear, I still work out several times a week, but not to the extent of panting for air. My love for exercise is part of who I am. I crave that hard-core feeling, my inner-athlete conditioning for more. I know it will take work and patience to build back my endurance, but I will embrace this challenge head on!

God bless the U.S.A.

Williamsburg is an incredible place to be for the 4th of July. Jarrett and I stole away for a weekend getaway to soak up the colonial atmosphere and patriotic vibe. We enjoyed the Kingsmill cookout with the kiddos and their two Cavalier King Charles Spaniel puppies, Ginger and Rugby. The fun didn't stop there, with a neighborhood parade and a trip to Busch Gardens rivaling in close competition. Cookouts and Bananagram, outlets and stores, there was plenty to do and more. My favorite moment was pitching an oversized blanket on the middle of D.O.G. street to watch a spectacular firework show. I am so thankful to be an American and truly grateful for those that sacrificed to make this country grand.