5 ways to avoid boring decor

<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">Many of my clients remark  that my home must be perfectly decorated.   The answer is a resounding NO.   I actually have little interest in perfectly decorated homes because that usually means boring in my book. Besides, the reality is that there is only so much money and time that one can devote to a place to live.  You have a life, you have things you want to do, and often home projects get pushed to the bottom of the pile as you live with your decisions.  It's called setting priorities.</span></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">If you are spending your hard earned money on a place to live, how can you have the best space possible within your budget parameters?  This is a roundup of suggestions supported by  past posts that you might want to consider as you decide how to create an interesting home.</span></span><br /><div><br /></div><h4>1. Don't try to keep up with the neighbours </h4><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">  Don't go there. I've had lots of chats especially with young  professional first time homeowners who feel trapped in the friends' comparison games. You know the checks and balances  of where something was bought, the cost, the  hot style you need to have to be "successful". This is a trap for more than young homeowners.   Designing your house considering  such dictates will lead to a  very cookie cutter product (the show home look) and will possibly deplete your bank account at the same time.</span></span><br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbPhJ5ZKnAdJKsPtLXCMaTYuCGxMuOxFA6ygUvvmkokX89f6g45uNzizvGO8vipwPdQ7I47vi3Ha4gIy9WIb17h7uqiE2p2gQSEE_FNjpzFFlJFYlifaQLs5mQ9OssvExN7LciLJ0bSEH6/s1600/popular+kitchen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="white kitchen granite counter " border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbPhJ5ZKnAdJKsPtLXCMaTYuCGxMuOxFA6ygUvvmkokX89f6g45uNzizvGO8vipwPdQ7I47vi3Ha4gIy9WIb17h7uqiE2p2gQSEE_FNjpzFFlJFYlifaQLs5mQ9OssvExN7LciLJ0bSEH6/s1600/popular+kitchen.jpg" title="Designing Home: 5 ways to avoid boring decor" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Today's most popular kitchen look </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/ideabooks/2289460/list?utm_source=Houzz&utm_campaign=u96&utm_medium=email&utm"> source</a></span><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcn1Nb8HL_SrgzssCJsh5taWZf_Mmj82h8bPJxyoD_S3io8Uc4JacujNheLLGL9o3AweehNuqjdVjUHTaTvKMBivfNVFTA1Nna9nplzyf6iSyGXJdt_nGFENNYjt4kpTrSTnqhmneJTygD/s1600/teal+kitchen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="teal kitchen " border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcn1Nb8HL_SrgzssCJsh5taWZf_Mmj82h8bPJxyoD_S3io8Uc4JacujNheLLGL9o3AweehNuqjdVjUHTaTvKMBivfNVFTA1Nna9nplzyf6iSyGXJdt_nGFENNYjt4kpTrSTnqhmneJTygD/s1600/teal+kitchen.jpg" title="Designing Home: 5 ways to avoid boring decor" width="348" /></a></div><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> Rather than questioning if your home is up to par with the neighbour's, switch your thinking to how can I make my home unique. Not everyone is daring enough to have a teal kitchen, but it looks lovely and inviting and certainly isn't like ever other kitchen.  Read <a href="http://designinghome.blogspot.ca/2014/01/8-simple-ways-to-make-your-space.html">this </a>to find  ways to add interest  your space.</span></span><br /><br /><h4> 2.  Don't be a slave to trends  </h4><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> Trends come and go and adhering to them often means  changing  accessories, appliances and furniture more frequently than is warranted by normal wear and tear.  Are there trends that you should pay attention to?  I've discussed that topic <a href="http://here./">here.</a>  Would you be horrified to have white appliances,  natural oak hardwood or 80's European style cabinets?  ( I have all three)  Is granite the only countertop you would accept?  ( I have butcher block and laminate)!</span></span><br /><br /><h4><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD8cdDHzNEL1aykwUcpMCXgMoFLAVHcfFFOfmTuwxiF5iyxRAWBHt-gKbqhise4nwL_eDWcXyOwuoeOWBtYgaSU59iNgTpClaF6oYIXPYDoSZ8YXD8eJzqhoXOSOEZ8RaTPZIicQ1Wr_ke/s1600/yellow+dining+chairs.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="yellow dining chairs timeless design" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD8cdDHzNEL1aykwUcpMCXgMoFLAVHcfFFOfmTuwxiF5iyxRAWBHt-gKbqhise4nwL_eDWcXyOwuoeOWBtYgaSU59iNgTpClaF6oYIXPYDoSZ8YXD8eJzqhoXOSOEZ8RaTPZIicQ1Wr_ke/s1600/yellow+dining+chairs.jpg" title="Designing Home: 5 ways to avoid boring decor" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Timeless v.s. trendy </span></td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">  </span></div><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://yourhandwritingshouldbecomeafont.tumblr.com/post/49550303415">source</a></span></h4><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"> Right now yellow, gray,  and black and white are "on trend", but I wouldn't call this space trendy.  Ten years from now this modern space warmed with wood and art will still look distinctive and inviting.  </span></span><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidBq6DSWfwS3_bHkpzkbn8DQo8HH6tTjW9j8rXYAINrkRCYv5V-JJ9_KNDepRAnzxfmD7RkDErAFjDo0LdEEdGExM8pzGnDMtHaKynw0rgiJFwG5c7uadzLVEp5gZDM1H75qrlMl8D-JS7/s1600/chevrons+and+antlers.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="chevrons antlers gray nursery" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEidBq6DSWfwS3_bHkpzkbn8DQo8HH6tTjW9j8rXYAINrkRCYv5V-JJ9_KNDepRAnzxfmD7RkDErAFjDo0LdEEdGExM8pzGnDMtHaKynw0rgiJFwG5c7uadzLVEp5gZDM1H75qrlMl8D-JS7/s1600/chevrons+and+antlers.jpg" title="Designing Home: 5 ways to avoid boring decor" width="400" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Chrvrons, antlers and gray </span></td></tr></tbody></table><br /><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.rosenberryrooms.com/101-zig-zag-euro-sham.html"> source</a></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> <span style="font-size: small;">If you are at a home decor store every week  looking for accessories to add to your home,  you might be  going down the trend road. If you have chevron patterns, a chalkboard wall, antlers, cute lettered signs about family, love or keeping calm, lots of  baskets, or starburst mirrors, you are an accessory  trend follower.  Pinterest tells all!</span></span><br /><br /><h4>3. Dare to have a personal style</h4><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> <span style="font-size: small;">A more creative solution to home decor is  to determine what your personal style is and stick with that, adding select pieces over time. Make choices that reflect your family lifestyle and history. What makes your home yours?  Do you like antiques; are you a painted furniture aficionado; do you collect things or have travel mementos;  are you into yoga and zen spaces;  is music important to you;  are you a painter,  a wood worker,  a stained glass artist or photographer?  Reflect your loves in your space.  Check out this <a href="http://designinghome.blogspot.ca/2013/10/what-does-your-home-say-about-you.html">post</a> for a more in depth look at what your house says about you.</span></span><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJcwAwFSzdoqJSEC-g2Pez1G7phR84nXoRXwkaVlEk9xQ6zxHm4zhtmVEH6Gwgkk0HUOWtIimJfwAsNCF73A2tkSOlbsy-7i45IETNVYBW9vYXhmsg_R3ri2kfEQ-sz6INS8lNP3y0J066/s1600/unique+vanity.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="zen bathroom " border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJcwAwFSzdoqJSEC-g2Pez1G7phR84nXoRXwkaVlEk9xQ6zxHm4zhtmVEH6Gwgkk0HUOWtIimJfwAsNCF73A2tkSOlbsy-7i45IETNVYBW9vYXhmsg_R3ri2kfEQ-sz6INS8lNP3y0J066/s1600/unique+vanity.jpg" title="Designing Home: 5 ways to avoid boring decor" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Distinctive zen bathroom </span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;"><br /></span></span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">This is not your average bathroom space nor will it be everyone's cup of tea. That's the thing about personal style.  It should not be cookie cutter.   Each element is distinctive and they are creatively combined to produce a quiet, zen like space.  </span></span><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Vw5RA_m43vwMECRFkaqkkY6g_klxSUn6X2UtawTgzq7wJpFlHqAhXWZ5WyyHA3yG4eE-uv_wLiIyTLmvdtVtRdz5ruAI_5ro4Ahspk3TJUvY9tI_FXCwxgEEeSveNPQRFQsA644Svu4r/s1600/seafoam-vanity.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="green antique cabinet bathroom storage" border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7Vw5RA_m43vwMECRFkaqkkY6g_klxSUn6X2UtawTgzq7wJpFlHqAhXWZ5WyyHA3yG4eE-uv_wLiIyTLmvdtVtRdz5ruAI_5ro4Ahspk3TJUvY9tI_FXCwxgEEeSveNPQRFQsA644Svu4r/s1600/seafoam-vanity.jpg" title="Designing Home: 5 ways to avoid boring decor" width="426" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> Antiques and interesting finds</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.fourgenerationsoneroof.com/2013/05/dreamy-spa-bathrooms-wayfair-curated-sales-event.html?_szp=463383">source </a></span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"> <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This bath has an interesting combination of antiques and practical objects. </span></span></span><br /><h4> </h4><h4> 4. Forget about over matching  </h4><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">There is nothing that sucks the soul out of a space more  than over matching. If I went through fifty spaces in a row on Pinterest on any one day, way too many of them are so perfectly matched they are downright boring.   Every space needs an edge, you choose what that edge is.  This<a href="http://designinghome.blogspot.ca/2012/01/is-your-home-matchy-matchy.html"> post</a> discusses the matchy match look and how to avoid it.</span></span><br /><h4><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4LUpkA51SYtC2hpGxT_7K3uk_OArWYhPEcWNioUnCD1ojn7QC-2586AKT3OaPZyFYz9RppBwMpyqOmGBFEgAolTwgLv_nkEY-KJHigBVhW2bOMlD_y6-cflMaQeKLunayHAne4d2D46Y8/s1600/spa+bathroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="spa bathroom " border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4LUpkA51SYtC2hpGxT_7K3uk_OArWYhPEcWNioUnCD1ojn7QC-2586AKT3OaPZyFYz9RppBwMpyqOmGBFEgAolTwgLv_nkEY-KJHigBVhW2bOMlD_y6-cflMaQeKLunayHAne4d2D46Y8/s1600/spa+bathroom.jpg" title="Designing Home: 5 ways to avoid boring decor" width="425" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"> A well matched spa inspired bathroom</span></td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div></h4><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">There is no doubt this is a restful space reminiscent of cool ocean breezes, but I would love to see at least one thing that was "out of theme". Something unexpected... a different mirror,  shelf  or light fixtu</span>re.    </span><br /><br /><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0V80ot9imVI71B975-q0wju1ftmZzhXJbXZuI7LB9X-t0-9uRrGGX2ISel0isoqpSpWLQjLFh7ocGuH0tPBEXevnlDNMV-HgSmbG_V5AoybzdxWfSL588XXNvfeJPWbrtfOgM641jMGQZ/s1600/bath+creative+use+of+materials.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="spa bathroom " border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0V80ot9imVI71B975-q0wju1ftmZzhXJbXZuI7LB9X-t0-9uRrGGX2ISel0isoqpSpWLQjLFh7ocGuH0tPBEXevnlDNMV-HgSmbG_V5AoybzdxWfSL588XXNvfeJPWbrtfOgM641jMGQZ/s1600/bath+creative+use+of+materials.jpg" title="Designing Home: 5 ways to avoid boring decor" width="480" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Spa bathroom with interest</span></td></tr></tbody></table><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><a href="http://www.hgtv.com/bathrooms/nkba-2014-best-bathrooms-extended/pictures/page-26.html?soc=pinterest&crlt">source</a></span><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">This is still a small bathroom space but materials have been used more creatively to produce a distinctive look. </span>Imagine this space without the art work over the tub.  I would nix the plant.  I could see myself tripping over it every time I moved. </span></div><h4><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"> </span></h4><h4>5. Move around what you have</h4><span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">One of the first things I do when I begin a project with  clients who has hired me to  accessorize their space is ask them to pull out what they have stored. You would be surprised by  some of the finds that went from the basement to front and centre.   This <a href="http://designinghome.blogspot.ca/2013/11/accessories-making-it-all-work.html">post </a> will give you an idea of this type of thinking.</span></span></span><br /><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: small;">With so many ways to to create inviting, individual environments, do you have a favourite one that works in your space?  </span></span><br /><br /><br /><br />

5 ways to avoid boring decor

Many of my clients remark  that my home must be perfectly decorated.   The answer is a resounding NO.   I actually have little interest in p...

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If you visit: Race weekend!

<p>Goodness. Four more school days people! I’m not sure we’ll make it in this house! Even the dog was moody this morning. We are so looking forward to the long holiday weekend! </p> <p>I’m a proud Hoosier and this is a HUGE weekend for Indianapolis because of a little race called the Indy 500. :) I find many people visit Indy and are surprised with what we have to offer – it really is a fun city. When we hosted the Super Bowl a few years back I shared a <a href="http://thriftydecorchick.blogspot.com/2012/01/if-you-visit.html" target="_blank">few of my favorite spots</a>. Those were mostly indoor activities and restaurants, but the trees are green, the sun is shining and if you’ll be in town with kids this weekend our zoo is a great spot to visit! </p> <p>We LOVE our zoo. I’ve not been to many others so I can’t compare it much, but we think it’s pretty awesome. There are two sections to the Indy Zoo – the White River Gardens and the animal exhibits. White River Gardens is one of my favorite spots in all of Indianapolis: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFJfq3NJreeb5VElSHuwD5HfWkWtJX6kb_RD2Tb_MPRBZf9Ss1jxRBNT8k-YQpiO636uqMBtUDFumVrDRmLPGid5n598n1TTIUUFRz0eqtZW5MAg-06cvUjOOb0wzCGAoSHQBjQpT0_BM/s1600-h/unnamed%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="white river gardens Indy" border="0" height="667" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhoZ02EYXqi3etqoLaYDGaUp1h9ruOb5ancp-m8jUzI8-EHXatFu-O3yxciocsfje13N3kfiCC2e8njDp1Hd8zJ1YnSimrJvQllcD2X1XfdksUkSW_QPBBuZR-I9FlSJNP72az7xYcDXlM/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="white river gardens Indy" width="500" /></a></p> <p>Throughout the spring and summer you can see the butterflies at the Hilbert Conservatory, along with hundreds of tropical plants. </p> <p>That building itself is pretty awesome, but then you walk out to the gardens – my favorite: <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZ98OKK2WGDJwR00IJiAC5DRm5ejA0kj49p4obJpLG_4u3UEhW59-TOZSd3GqaipK7ONyLG3WOtm4Y_Va8DkalejvIR-GlnMwV9SRox2U65VekJuC7Sk5RVelZH-NkwklZZYQv4UoGnbo/s1600-h/18%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="white river gardens Indy" border="0" height="667" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjlHkhZmnI6B7aEfMXIayO2TnSJsDPCO4VqqPnA93ATksti3xBP_CNNFnEXonN6jgRlhRC9VoCBSLSI42Lf649_a82ScmeD63GHFWZb_Y9Px0YkAYXBRkQv2MgO_sHJ3PbZXDOSFnAZsAc/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="white river gardens Indy" width="500" /></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6br1rMUMLGjXpSH2Z9AylKuRIAN56qnCxnmMmtw0Wm8LEC4kjtBowvdJqIIwTHDUnYLHIHnv0kRvy6oz2wiJjcwHHpBPDqdpsmwdOjqOYMUZS6U8dlMUg3dncjtcWIH56S6hN5PeQQ7g/s1600-h/17%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font color="#4c4c4c"></font><img alt="white river gardens Indianapolis" border="0" height="659" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7mx89f7LDkxtT4ay_7-Ea_KWMwGPIKwdcXgelH6rsy_sEXTm36sP404UFEVvwVyEyjzYt2P8-SBNDBXe1xtt-B8og8iIVA7Empz4SaNntFCDcpcuvwytTmE0Hxy2ukc9VuiaW2ZBYmOI/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="white river gardens Indianapolis" width="500" /></a></p> <p>It’s three acres of some of the prettiest gardens. There are fountains, shade gardens, gazebos, beautiful stonework, a lily pad pond, (yes, complete with frogs), and flowers! So many flowers! </p> <p>It’s just gorgeous:</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvL_VYeUSUelPNOJC7G-GT1J4O7ll08NaJ2zWsfYPdsUk0k1MX-d9qiDIpW3Rf0ccr73WCJFgBvcGdydE3g1tHSFyIg43aFnoiNSrJEt3yW2JDjCAbzi80i9NP5J3WhG3KQsxfglXRa_c/s1600-h/1%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="white river gardens Indianapolis" border="0" height="667" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixkzaj9U0k-JyM4kC64kEYoNYs9UOnHlRX3wvSFIFr5qzFux3F18ClENO2-q8dI-V2NFxj9SB05BzaesSSe0FzwoqlLjZJumFLGGgshvtpl6sGPNq4pVTTTzE6BSDURSp2YBJUvr67z7s/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="white river gardens Indianapolis" width="500" /></a></p> <p>It’s a large space but they break it down into little “secret” gardens – all so beautiful. You just want to bring a book and sit on a bench all day:</p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEga4imeyQlxoAUQzOH395QaqZA6oJbmf6RgyaS8gpEQt8hLwD4JBUkidMizbM47l1ry2lwZARQlA5NfOJOhTekqvcUME-6r_GG9DuAlPbh1TRJEqK2pmBthtO0dCkTeCFc2jK9TSTAtpro/s1600-h/3%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="white river gardens Indy" border="0" height="667" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwheoSDleb5K0d_iqVVj1U_usF3blDI7zjiEtt7bfaJ4BgDST67tALPsUaH6W1BjKJuCZ3U-lxmTDvZPvf6Xk4czufVtLrlsKpe1Bf1vxpRnXeyPlPdZEBhSczaTaeb-zBgKguOKelo7g/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="white river gardens Indy" width="500" /></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEho6fIc9marf4f7uXHx_vtrEYMCJ8G7cikFN-m_ZFPW42J0OalI1l-QiMxwr69sgAzXaEIoo5KzkmrA_umPSKxxvfyysF8FFQUxIrcJzczyDebkhpDWiNNtVO5T1pvzfprgAGzeYTXs14o/s1600-h/4%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="white river gardens Indianapolis" border="0" height="667" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilqRmMQGW02i0paLE58KlyODSeHWsPyugt1zMRO_VOhyphenhyphenPBCa4QcubV_IjxX_oQbcWgealdimuXId48OUvp5CvTsIeGXwbv3xtX9gEJ_mPej1Udk9XPSJ6vag5Wd-cXZ5RB5BZ0WOs_D8A/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="white river gardens Indianapolis" width="500" /></a></p> <p>There are a ton of little statues throughout – our favorites are the spitting frogs: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo7H-18YKDTSlgx_RzJE45HM3nQ9yQzD6vFB80YgKeOs4_ltyAit1_QziklETXxQ4M6JuL7T8IqYc4ukJerkwLrxtAiQQYjJHjhOFPwlu87IsDBakcRnYFydwRE-IKOeOHBdDQHZyxt4U/s1600-h/IMG_1774%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="spitting frogs white river gardens" border="0" height="667" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifa3J1FsxeinEKTzbL0VeY-5LZktnBmzmXG60KLFTewFmREUNYwymBdpVLhVp6Wc-3HECjgQgumbUTeAVkkllo9ISBg94No8RN6c8JO6znpXgRll0Dq50aMJv6rkRPHE0w7DbZUBFAH1U/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="spitting frogs white river gardens" width="500" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhqc21R5E4_8hWOb3Iy3MvnM9qx-SRHZL6rWMcUPRLcPU8xmwzbiZb5t7-93kRV295p2NTMkfBCkfMzvtI6gzBz6xwayWzChBWXnluRTw6H2ztTLaOLOrK8Ef023dZoLhOkw95zLZq86hk/s1600-h/7%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="667" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXxb_YPIBeTMDHgtHbvaKIMRORMoPjQhrvhh8FRopOvx2XJlMMViRaFhX04N4oToiy4HRRPPMRfbLrHPpmRUpoKv8130-19wK9TPfa63n12lABF9Z5UL5kpYrY3IpkmZpV38igZLONWjc/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="" width="500" /></a></p> <p>I took most of these pics a couple weeks ago when things were still growing in. It’s even more stunning now. There are flowering vines throughout that grow thick and cover everything so beautifully: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC71SNwBbxFX6ayt5C1ze3JGCo4T5kUuc5UVqyJwjECmxJBaNcdIGA1GlnZT-25OFlBV80trDJd21I720ExNzYkCh_9cCAT1KwjyP5fE8P6uQV3cSsTVDcZ8pvYUvKHhfvOU8kiU03x9k/s1600-h/8%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="white river gardens Indianapolis" border="0" height="689" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgA86Yx8PqdxtIX6NycGihCCIJhKUiINB3IptBJOxM4QgYEP0I3RvHBIOM1jUqp6ZEpz0R1ganVe4XXBOALW9fEreJfa7T6ztqfKcn4AGOIX7loBUbpaOKSmZY_fkVbnomVpe17Y3a781A/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="white river gardens Indianapolis" width="500" /></a></p> <p>We were there to catch the tail end of the tulips in bloom: <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDpjJI-MACKj8wDuC9In4ahwOT4qs_DZRyBrn6hvHOrzHD15_UzuShyphenhyphenQJse_28uVGzNyz0GVdr7_XXB10xPsyTw99qT-jhkf5HsIVAbKD5Mj3IrLY3oVIFxyd2X6VAHNwmcLSgPl_IVV4/s1600-h/19%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="white river gardens Indianapolis" border="0" height="667" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS6xySeuVchUDTg_gXuDHboo9ajc0LAaG834OofSX3Wv8tuOca4YwrR7Forp4QtemVZ0qiQ6uXnu541SS21LYGpM1WN4QObArQD308wYtHghXa_OLYDspxUrklveS1iljaDk6piOHIkmk/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="white river gardens Indianapolis" width="500" /></a></p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikuMYXzeVfvrmiZtpqOwMIXzeGb1auFPJXDix9aPVmCALkw6wOQr7bJiZ_bKtqAW4n86MoHtWgxqPh8iIhtry9szVspBkWlxAz0vKYT64AXYt24eeL0I2Nde4D4K8rqBqyNjC3tM8Zpig/s1600-h/9%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="white river gardens Indianapolis" border="0" height="667" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9yNQNcUVG1qWgxX8SheMsvaxqR4amdmJONlcOZm7vjDYaniq986ElLoMWTDTya9iXhcr3o36L65KJ1-JYXyXwESTphzyMg4zdNg4rODURybAKDKnfOE5pIkYnLPNH20o0TNBZ309NONI/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="white river gardens Indianapolis" width="500" /></a></p> <p>At the end of the gardens is a huge lawn where weddings are held: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLdczPQQxaOmlkwdzElhaWWWOkdpBCBmqPfhDNWTSF3PqZbAWoKRz8NA07QuSgnWNVPHauOB7vvPovuTd1rQYch8rQks_os3ZtPuJDpjQ4Cw1Y-vq4SkdP3Delf6XoO5Dng-dWcjRVCi0/s1600-h/10%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="white river gardens Indianapolis" border="0" height="667" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsY1pr1jIG_D72kl7lq4BGg7ggtfHb6r4OAH4dlC-Jn04gFHpvg_xiK13bKpy7NZCmFNGDme-58pOnjjlVJ9YBHQHp_0dwc1NJW-B53nfXOQdJCjEZ-1eqMUXCB7xqWSVhgWNsTVqQYxo/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="white river gardens Indianapolis" width="500" /></a></p> <p>The pergola wraps around and is covered in vines in the summer – it’s one of my favorite areas in the gardens! I have a lot of favorite spots in there, if you can’t tell. :) </p> <p>The zoo itself is full of fun stuff as well, but the big event this weekend is the opening of the new <a href="http://www.indianapoliszoo.com/plan-your-visit/animals-exhibits/international-orangutan-center" target="_blank">orangutan exhibit</a> – we’ve been watching it go up and were so excited to finally get inside: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzhq7JRNdf0iZCHOC5Fp4TgSiR-Myc6rTOQvpHQsRZQGsatVoqYPvcCP9I5s9Eywcam4ihyphenhyphendT72wK-6LZvdUEckNT_mAEEPuVPKjLjoWzAaRj792pLMeFmNi75zEG6BeYnL1i5SYpJmuQ/s1600-h/16%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="orangutan exhibit indy zoo" border="0" height="667" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJQU0SjCzJkC7Pm5rulk8Kh5EakpSPxEgFYujChlnCUhcrbDwrW_3xg2w0M5DiNtjekevWQrqmgwuQnBvfVHUDubnjS5Uvd5Aj_XyK6SG3Pe1eNcHWafWUayT8BLb_cfJuatjIElOal8s/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="orangutan exhibit indy zoo" width="500" /></a></p> <p>It opens to the public tomorrow but members got to see it a little early. I’ve never seen anything like it! The orangutans are able to go outside and climb up onto poles that go around the whole exhibit – they go across the wires right above you. There’s also a gondola ride that you can take around the whole thing – I’m sure it will offer some awesome views of the city! (And you’ll go right by the orangutans!) </p> <p>This guy was going back down into the exhibit: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFAskYgt_Y1B0a549d2xdMsDK4X1QKe7on1uDz53RC8FfXTTw_ZY39p6yxr8E8yRgO-CQP6YkUE7IMqLWXU3BfJiYozwjtaJOH-PCS1xgvDtjgeMQB9jRvwk8tTU3KsseWvK4bAxMHtxM/s1600-h/11%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="orangutans indy zoo" border="0" height="667" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwoKDaylBDoCPgFjMp9PstsDvnYk10ZI0zniXCpKSadWyVO9qEehWar69XqCL7T8HLgxcK-KY9ztJDNn9ZYFr60Nk2rEYwfFjZiZI2CYcMH-psQUmfjKDCNVywqgSrmCUxg5GIqEEyKUo/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="orangutans indy zoo" width="500" /></a></p> <p>It is seriously SO cool to see them just hanging (literally) right over your heads! It’s fascinating to watch. </p> <p>Inside you can get up close and personal with them: </p> <p><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbS6L5cIHu3CopwyVE8aiFyPc8GI2-FPrG1JbFEWhOiS3YUHarb5E7QGw60v2_GKRZtXRkm80_YU9SdhJXmRD12SmjMiwEzifzNUOC6PnRCEDt_C3tGym8H_7RsFgY45d4fWxt0h3HXqw/s1600-h/12%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="orangutans indy zoo" border="0" height="780" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiP8Pb_RB3uPE3-hxVbKXE6a6Lh-1bhrNP_k82MS5j7i57issb_MNyGlNnrFDlLO-WxMsVLVanRC6XYIu-071Vtw-QG8aIgJmWebtUMFFqnEvw_Zuq30kpl1bOyZbt-Y_zuIX85ObGtqQE/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="orangutans indy zoo" width="493" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGr17tcRB_9sfJpotSSDPAqSahuYK_nSv5W7WpQJKccyhrteOXjom21QpumvxHnzNI2iQd8FLMnWbbKQKGgcj5gKDxkq4Cq4UyVDXgQ4pcgeoUvPy-RcpcHSXpIsEtS5fyEhiZEWplyoc/s1600-h/13%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="orangutans indy zoo" border="0" height="667" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcfU6D6aElBTEmZEEck830uj8_pe3x3_s1UbeVZMGdd_wd_j56-jXhQRQycGAia2rvDk1k3teM5RVZGjUa7ImK8Tb5MuxW6JZrna0tOpfYtKt9g3Qv9xU9SRlaMXiWk1XEsNEhcgP7SPs/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="orangutans indy zoo" width="500" /></a> <a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQtMyYxFhjiPDQwxhqANUdNGxbvyUUW66HfCy6FhsqYHlYd9K3eJPNUs4uriSjX3cJDVBC0HKPaQ1bkNMfP4L30zX5CcVVWca0suHXGlhVvrDn7yvNrn6lQY-r4b49OudDmy247azT3Ic/s1600-h/14%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="orangutans indy zoo" border="0" height="667" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRGCLokyeYrAH7Ex1CLBFtNTH-aWEFeiNT1jAv2HEprcrzcYAZfQacJLiWLtpfJUtaN6X8H29QVNVYrkeNg21sAzrJuhPKhjywdbaP5Hk0NaCYLWBolwUMuU75_SEjx5tT-VSshMuk5Hw/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="orangutans indy zoo" width="500" /></a></p> <p>It was so cool to get that close to them! I don’t know their temperament but from where we were standing they seemed like very calm, sweet souls. </p> <p>There are so many spots outside to see them too – windows everywhere:<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD4_d0Tof0uaSfndpoIq6d3s5JucJfdVGfLKebJ5lTFAM6RE74Z4u_9Aaq67WLd-EoHiwkC9blqwUv9ccoU_ZVm5pLv6u-PE8vBQb_U8KzvkgJsP0ceef3qrNCZNOMyMbLibVYZmJk9WE/s1600-h/15%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="orangutan exhibit indy zoo" border="0" height="667" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihpdThMUHfTJHXGz1HAGyZo6lBmPhDmnl-G9_KqpYr7MRFXVOXh88O8kxLO7thPaZZosGOe_ojbOsg9-W0XjW_xHw6LIFTu-jZY_Zi8SzjbZV-O_CNPxCz1gzfLzVT-grU77lOgx9y3RE/?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom: 0px; border-left: 0px; display: block; float: none; margin-left: auto; border-top: 0px; margin-right: auto; border-right: 0px" title="orangutan exhibit indy zoo" width="500" /></a>If you’re in our lovely city for the race this weekend or live nearby and want to do a quick trip, don’t miss the zoo! It’s fun with the family or not. :) </p> <p>I’m so proud of our city – there’s so much to do in Indy! Are you visiting for the race? Have you ever been? If you are coming into town be safe and have a blast! </p>

If you visit: Race weekend!

Goodness. Four more school days people! I’m not sure we’ll make it in this house! Even the dog was moody this morning. We are so looking for...

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I work out

<p>Some of you are all, well that’s a random title. And the rest of you are singing “Girl look at that body…”</p> <p>:) </p> <p>It will be in your head all day now. You’re welcome. </p> <p>Today I’m going off course as I do sometimes to talk about life stuff. I’ve had a bit of an epiphany over the past four months or so and I wanted to share a bit of the journey with you today. </p> <p>I know too many people right now who are dealing with the scary, nasty, despicable disease that is cancer. It’s hit especially close and it woke me up to the fact that I have one body and I want to take better care of it. Simple as that. (And in no way am I suggesting those with cancer do not. I just want to do better by mine.) I’ve never treated my body horribly, but I haven’t treated like the temple that it is. Laugh at that if you want, but it truly is!  </p> <p>So earlier this year I was on a mission. I don’t do resolutions but this mission started suspiciously close to the beginning of the year. ;) But that’s what I do every year just because it feels like new start to me. Thing is, usually by March I’m kind of done and I go back to old habits. </p> <p>Last summer I got in decent shape and had lost quite a bit of weight – and I don’t know what in the heck happened but by Christmas I was inching up to dangerous territory for me again. It happened SO fast. I was still working out, just not as much. And I was obviously eating anything and everything. </p> <p>I was tired of it. Tired of doing well and going backward and tired of not treating myself better overall. And I had that epiphany -- I have a healthy, working body and I’m going to take care of it and take advantage of it. How lucky am I? </p> <p>This time I’m sticking with it. It’s my life now – this is a totally different outlook than I’ve had before. I’m SO thrilled with my progress so I wanted to share little things that have helped me along the way. </p> <p>First up is tracking what I eat. I’ve had the My Fitness Pal app on my phone for <em>years</em> and never really used it till a few months ago: </p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ltNPhtNYIkk/U34kzAaOhnI/AAAAAAAAn1U/xdRQeOd1ZFc/s1600-h/Screen%252520Shot%2525202014-05-22%252520at%25252011.20.18%252520AM%25255B3%25255D.png"><img alt="My Fitness Pal" border="0" height="205" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Oyn_dFplmmU/U34k0JwfymI/AAAAAAAAn1c/tDuKNwTJTAA/Screen%252520Shot%2525202014-05-22%252520at%25252011.20.18%252520AM_thumb%25255B4%25255D.png?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="My Fitness Pal" width="476" /></a></p> <p>So here’s the thing. I still eat. I don’t eat great all the time either. We go out to eat a lot. I like margaritas. And tortilla chips. :) I’m still not eating as well as I should but I have made changes that have helped. </p> <p>I say that to be honest but I also say that because so often I think we feel like we can’t lose weight unless we eat like birds and eat nothing but lettuce. I eat bread, (real) sugar, meat, ice cream and even fried chicken occasionally – but I don’t eat a lot of it. I know myself and if I restricted everything I love completely I’d be back to my old habits in no time. It’s not always about willpower for me – it’s about enjoying life. I enjoy food and refuse to give up all the stuff I love 100 percent. </p> <p>I was hard core with My Fitness Pal for months but I’m starting to log in less and less. Partly because I know what many of the foods are as far as calories so I can keep it going in my head all day, but partly because I’m determined to just move more so the calories don’t matter quite as much. </p> <p>Here’s another thing – don’t eat too little calories! I think anything below 1,400 a day is too low. I’ve lost weight just fine at 1600 to 1800 a day – but that’s based on my weight and some calculations. You need to figure out the calories it takes to sustain your current weight and then from there figure out how many to cut to lose weight. (That’s a post for another day.)</p> <p>Speaking of moving – you need to find a workout that you enjoy. I’ve tried to become a runner so many times in my adult life and I’m just not one. Although I’m realizing how it works my body in different ways so I’m trying to incorporate it more. </p> <p>But group fitness I’ve always enjoyed -- in college I did kickboxing and loved it. When I was at my lowest weight about 14 years ago (low weight because all I did was work out because it was how I dealt with a sad time in my life) I started it up again. </p> <p>But for years after that I rarely worked out at all. A couple years ago a friend had mentioned taking Zumba and it sounded fun…but it had been a long time since I had been in a fitness class. I was intimidated. So instead I got the Zumba fitness “game” for Xbox and starting doing it at home: </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fxBcNV2-mU0/U34k1FscSPI/AAAAAAAAn1k/S277CTT9HWk/s1600-h/81bFzUNi-SL._SL1500_%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="zumba rush xbox" border="0" height="568" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-_JWr9_f1tsc/U34k2evm8LI/AAAAAAAAn1s/KIQKcllx4Es/81bFzUNi-SL._SL1500__thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="zumba rush xbox" width="400" /></a></p> <p>Being overweight, walking into a group class you are clueless about, not knowing a soul – it’s not something many people can just do. And if you don’t know what you’re doing and feel uncomfortable, you’re not going to go back. </p> <p>So this was my way of easing into it – and I LOVED it. After about six months of doing it at home (and seeing some results) I started going to the class. And once you find a class that you love, there’s no going back. It becomes almost an addiction – you WANT to be there. I <em>hate</em> missing class – what??  </p> <p>My instructor is now a friend and her classes are intense – almost like a Zumba boot camp. But I love that I feel like I’m dancing the whole time, not working out. The music is big for me – she incorporates some hip hop and top 40 that we know so it makes it <em>so</em> much more fun. Like I’m in da club. But not. :)</p> <p>I started out with a little Fit Bit to track my steps every day: </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-B4NPoJzwcNA/U34k3LuRyFI/AAAAAAAAn10/rl-yiTBUd9o/s1600-h/fit-bit%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="fit-bit" border="0" height="191" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-tdS9JjJFXoM/U34k4DbGGkI/AAAAAAAAn18/-cLBQ1BGe-0/fit-bit_thumb%25255B6%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="fit-bit" width="500" /></a></p> <p>It’s great – I wear it all day long now and it syncs to my phone. You’d be surprised how many calories you burn cleaning your house or walking up and down the stairs doing laundry. :) </p> <p>The Fit Bit doesn’t track things like riding a bike or floor exercises (we do the latter in class a lot) so I ended up getting the Polar Fit as well: </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-uMR_y8Ej1e0/U34k44XhRJI/AAAAAAAAn2E/chlyLNVjYVw/s1600-h/6a00e5500c772188330154364f972d970c%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="polar fit" border="0" height="382" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-HlTZsfouQ5c/U34k5ij4c7I/AAAAAAAAn2M/IkwE9FFuahY/6a00e5500c772188330154364f972d970c_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="polar fit" width="264" /></a></p> <p>This one is more expensive but tracks the exact calories burned (you have to wear the strap around your chest). Most times you’re burning more than the Fit Bit tells you so I like having both. </p> <p>I think the biggest part of this journey is having support. You know the whole it takes a village to raise a child mantra? Well, I think it takes a village to lose weight. I really do. My husband is SO supportive of me running off to class each week. And I’ve made some wonderful friends throughout the process. About 25 of us did the Dirty Girl Mud Run this past weekend: </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-L90oompAUV0/U34k6lD9GjI/AAAAAAAAn2U/-9rRe9F-RfU/s1600-h/race_307_photo_2714066%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><font color="#4c4c4c"></font><img alt="dirty girl mud run" border="0" height="333" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-EOY5FUJOQE8/U34k8V8KDcI/AAAAAAAAn2c/5vksVKXpxSM/race_307_photo_2714066_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="dirty girl mud run" width="500" /></a></p> <p>It was TOUGH (with five days of rain before) but we had<strong> so much fun</strong>. And now I seriously can’t wait for the next 5K. We even signed up to do the Indy mini next year – not sure where my head was on that one. It’s peer pressure – but the best kind. :) </p> <p>Here’s another biggie for me – I have no idea how much weight I’ve lost. I don’t weigh myself anymore. It gets me down. Last time I checked I had lost about five pounds but what was months ago. But overall I’ve lost more than 18 inches in four months –<em> that’s</em> pretty amazing. That is encouraging to me – the scale is not. </p> <p>Last night I remembered that I had taken some before shots of myself back in January. I never do that but I knew this time was different so I wanted to track the difference. Four months later (this morning) I took progress pics and when I put them side by side I almost cried. I couldn’t believe the difference! It doesn’t feel like much when you’re going through it but the pics made me realize I’ve really started to change my body: </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-kvGITUIkdsU/U34k9c-MweI/AAAAAAAAn2k/V0b10YmyTFU/s1600-h/wl1%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="462" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ZKY3foBoo3Y/U34k-PMFVGI/AAAAAAAAn2o/iUeWfYpd1cs/wl1_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="" width="500" /></a></p> <p>I wore the same pants in the photos – I noticed the other day that they are starting to fall off when I wear them. WHOOT! I don’t really have a goal in mind – I’m just going to keep going and see where I land. Now I’m focusing hard on my arms and that middle pooch. I loathe that middle pooch. </p> <p>My goal is not to be skinny. I want to fit and athletic and strong: </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Gd-L4j_ThH4/U34k_T6aE5I/AAAAAAAAn20/g1fKujF780k/s1600-h/wl2%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="497" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-4Ht-ioCQ7CE/U34lAf1CyxI/AAAAAAAAn28/hn7-FoSQ0ts/wl2_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="" width="500" /></a></p> <p>I do weight training with a friend once a week as well but want to try to start adding a day – weight training does wonders for your metabolism! It won’t make you bulky – it tightens you up and completely changes the way you look. </p> <p>Even though I have more weight to lose I am in the best shape of my life at 38 years old. Seeing muscles develop is almost as exciting as fitting in my old jeans again. :) </p> <p>One of the biggest areas I’ve noticed is the “back fat” – I am starting to get a little bit of definition in my back and I love it. And the side rolls are getting smaller and smaller: </p> <p align="center"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7jEi6zOpPZA/U34lBTs2X_I/AAAAAAAAn3E/U5m7DO83JmQ/s1600-h/wl4%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="368" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-uNIVFDEiqgY/U34lCJIDMMI/AAAAAAAAn3I/GqSECoJUwqI/wl4_thumb.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: inline; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px" title="" width="500" /></a> </p> <p>I hate taking photos of myself but it’s actually really encouraging to see the progress! </p> <p>But first, let me take a selfie: </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-kKg9XjTC2Go/U34lCxGsCwI/AAAAAAAAn3U/lSjzj7cgfKk/s1600-h/after7%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="" border="0" height="698" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Fd4qPkNl-oI/U34lD6g_oAI/AAAAAAAAn3c/Tv0hHd5kASY/after7_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-right-width: 0px; display: block; float: none; border-top-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; margin-left: auto; border-left-width: 0px; margin-right: auto" title="" width="400" /></a></p> <p>Now THAT song will be in your head all day. Sorry. ;) </p> <p>Just with DIY and decor I don’t think there’s rules to getting fit – you just have to figure out the way that works best for you. If you still want to eat your favorite foods I believe you can – you’ll just have to cut down and your progress may be slower. I think that’s just fine. I’m sharing my thoughts to encourage but take what works for others with a grain of salt – you need to figure out what will keep you going. </p> <p>Do you struggle with weight and working out? Do you have a routine that you love to do? Do you run? If so teach me your secrets. :) </p>

I work out

Some of you are all, well that’s a random title. And the rest of you are singing “Girl look at that body…” :) It will be in your head al...

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