moving forward

Goals and self resetting

Movin' it with Michelle

So I am realizing blogging on a regular basis without a laptop/computer is tough. That coupled with a few hiccups in life have led me to a lack of posting since January. WHA?! Yikes, I sure fell off the writing wagon, and quick.

With that, I’ll say I really want to start making more time for doing the things I love. Writing, cooking, running, and creating things in general. The book I am listening to, during my commute said that we need to write our goals down to help make them real. So there it is, in writing.

Ive committed to losing my post turning 45 weight (ok, it started at the age of 40 but who’s counting…) and am down 6-7 lbs give or take. While that doesn’t sound like a lot, I can feel a difference in inches which makes me happy. How am I doing it? A combo of intermittent fasting (fasting 18 hours with a 6 hour eating window), carb cycling, running/exercising 3 times per week has seemed to finally done the trick. While my weight loss has plateaued, my body fat and inches are steadily decreasing. #winning

We’re six months into our new Florida life, and I figure since I am making some big life changes, I might as well work on myself, too.

How do you balance your “things you love” and things you are required to do, you know…job, house, kids, hubby etc.?

Cheers!

Michelle

real life adventures

The bond between parents and their kids…

Movin' it with Michelle

Growing up I remember how badly I wanted to be on my own, living independently and being able to come and go as I please. I remember how I couldn’t wait to get out from under my parent’s wings and be on my own. And for the first few years, I’ll admit, it was pretty great…even though I missed them, I truly enjoyed growing up on my own and having the pride of wearing the uniform every day.

But as I got older, I realize how very much I miss being close to my parents. While we are quite close emotionally, physically we are thousands of miles apart. This past weekend they came to visit, and I was reminded of the emotional closeness as my Mom hugged me tightly once she walked in to the door way of our new home. The endless hugs made my eyes swell up with tears and suddenly this almost 45 year old woman, started to cry. My parents have been my constant in my life. Lost loves, failed friendships, moving half way across the country and then back again and the one thing that remained tried and true? My parent’s love.

So if you are anything like me, and geographically distanced from your parents, make sure you make the time to reach out and let them know you love them. Being apart from my oldest daughter now, I can say what a huge difference it makes to hear that you are loved and appreciated. Save the “too busy” excuse and pick up the phone! 🙂

When was the last time you saw your parents? Do you live close/far from your folks?

Cheers!

Michelle

moving forward, real life adventures

Two things…

Movin' it with Michelle

So while most enjoy extended holiday breaks there was no rest for this weary chick. The alarm went off at O’dark 30 and I headed out to work. I was half asleep (as per usual) so didn’t notice the temps until I pulled into the parking lot and noticed the lady next to me getting all bundled up. What the heck was she doing!? This is Florida…it can’t be that cold, can it?

Yes. It can. It was 41 degrees as I stepped out of my Jeep. Brrrrrr. I had to dig out my winter coat from Alaska as my Chicago coat has gone MIA. Temps are going to continue to drop as the week goes on.

I’ve got the hubby on board with working out, at least for now. Since my toe is still extremely tender we did a modified circuit training workout.

I’ve also recommitted to watching my calorie intact and stayed on point until my daughter made white chocolate peppermint cookies. In my defense they were small and I only had two…I’m attempting intermittent fasting again, where I only eat in an 8 hour eating window. The cookie happened during that time so I’ll call it a win.

What are your goals for 2018? Does your spouse workout with you?

Happy Tuesday! Bear with me while I get back into this blogging thing. My goal is to share, inspire, motivate and have a place for me to share a little bit of my adventures with the world!

Cheers!

Michelle

moving forward

Happy New Year’s Eve!!!

Movin' it with Michelle

As we celebrate the last day of 2017 I have to smile from the inside out.

My family spent the evening at our (my) very first NFL game, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers didn’t disappoint. They pulled off a win with just seconds to go.

As I look back on this year one word comes to mind. Growth.

I let go of many fair weather friends, I stopped settling for less than what I deserved, andI chased my dreams of living near the beach.

So after surviving hurricane Irma, moving half way across the country, buying a new house, celebrating my 4 year anniversary on WordPress and starting a new career, I say this…Happy New Year!!! May all your dreams come true!!

Cheers,

Michelle

moving forward

2018 goals

Movin' it with Michelle

It’s been a while since I’ve posted. We’ve been so busy getting acclimated to our new home and I’ve got so much to learn at my new job. I no longer have a computer, either, so posting from my iPad mini can be a challenge.

That being said, I really want to commit to some solid goals this year. Here’s my list, in no particular order:

1. Start writing again…maybe even start the book I’ve been talking about for years. 3 days a week I want to commit to at least 30 minutes of writing, but hopefully more often than that. I also want to post 2x per week on the blog.

2. Run at least 3 races, but more would be great. No time goals, just more running. Lift weights 3x per week.

3. Lose 10 lbs and keep it off. Menopause has reared her ugly head, and my body isn’t responding well at all. Once we get settled I plan on seeking healthcare, but for now its eat less and move more…

4. Get back in the kitchen. Once each week work to create and/or learn a new recipe or technique.

5. Continue to explore Florida and all the beautiful things it has to offer. So far we’ve visited Disney and Epcot several times, attended the food and wine festival, been to Siesta Key beach, St. Pete beach, Clearwater, Tarpon Springs and Anna Maria Island. Anna Maria is by far our favorite but for a quick trip to a more local beach we’ve been going to Pass-a-Grille beach in St. Petersburg. Here’s a few pics from the past year!!

Highlights from 2017 are:

1. Hubby returning from deployment

2. Disney world family vacation

3. Getting a job at the VA in FLORIDA

4. Moving to Florida (obv!!!)

5. Exploring Florida with my family…

6. Being able to go to Florida in December-sure don’t miss the snow!!

How was your 2017? Have you set goals for 2018?

I hope you all had a great year, and are enjoying the holiday season!!

Cheers!!

Michelle

moving forward

Just over a month.

Movin' it with Michelle

Well it’s been over a month since I’ve moved to Florida. Close to 6 weeks if my memory serves me right. In that time I’ve encountered a new job, dealt with an Air Bnb flood, hurricane Irma and my Jeep having a near death experience.

So today I share the news that we closed on our new home and I couldn’t be happier. We can’t move in until next weekend but will use that time to clean and prep the house. I’ve been working out again and have been enjoying the beach life immensely. While my blogging has new sparse without a computer, I’m excited to check in. I promise to get back to everyone’s blogs soon! Here’s some pics!

How are you? What happened new for you this month?

Cheers!

Michelle

moving forward

Crazy it’s been a week and a half since I arrived in Florida.

Movin' it with Michelle

It's been a crazy week and a half. Getting acclimated. Fining a house. Starting a new job. It's been hard and exciting and crazy all in one. But I can honestly say having a friend here has made such a difference. Today Kandice took me site seeing to Ybor city, MacDill AFB and we even explored the new area I'll be living. We of course had to visit my new house, too. Look at the gorgeous hibiscus. We ended the day eating dinner near where I'm staying at the Rooster and the Till and it was amazing. With the crazy storms coming it looks like we won't hit the beach this weekend but we made the most of this crazy weather.
My take away from the week is my new job will be challenging but amazing and that I love living in Florida. Lastly I'm in awe of life long friendships. Feeling so blessed.
Here are some pics from the week.

How was your day? Have your explored any new areas where you live lately?
Cheers!!
Michelle

real life adventures

Five days and counting.

Movin' it with Michelle

Well, I've been here for a total of 5 full days and it's been amazing. The diverse community, beautiful weather, and just being adventurous exploring new areas has been great. In just five short days I've reconnected with an old Air Force sister, been to two different beaches, and have toured almost a dozen homes to purchase. I'm excited to say we got the house we put a bid on!!!

But the best part so far was my first day of work today. I arrived at the VA early, and was greeted by Veterans and employees all around. When orientation started, the Director of HR had everyone introduce themselves and tell where they'd be working. Their last question was, "Are you a Veteran?" And if you said yes, an HR staff member came over and shook your hand and thanked you for your service. They then asked your branch of service and handed you a corresponding badge and pin for you to proudly wear. Mine looked like this:

I was so floored. My military service hasn't been understood by the civilian sector fully, which is totally understandable.
We then filled out some paperwork and it was time to give our oath. I hadn't done this since my last reenlistment back in 2007 and I immediately choked up. Such emotions went through me. The day continued on, and with each briefing we were asked the question, "Are you a Veteran?" and each time I raised my hand, I found myself sitting up a little straighter. For I've always felt my purpose was to serve, and now here I am…serving the Veteran community and in my favorite state.

Let the adventures continue!!!!

Cheers!
Michelle

moving forward

Florida bound

Movin' it with Michelle

Today I drove over 650 miles through five states. Thanks for your support with all my posts. To say this is the hardest thing I've done knowing my fear of driving is an understatement but in my eyes not taking this chance would be even harder. Here's to "onward and upward!!" Y'all rock!! #floridabound

moving forward

My final weekend.

Movin' it with Michelle

It's my final weekend here in Illinois and my coworker's and friends have sent me off in style. My bags are packed and I'm ready to hit the road on Tuesday. While I'm sad, I can honestly say I'm beyond proud of the fact that I'm taking this leap of faith. Here's some pics that capture my last weekend!

I'll be journaling my journey so stay tuned!! I've even got my running gear packed!

Cheers!
Michelle