Tag: Happy

Day 1: The 21-Day No Complaint Challenge

Subtitle:  Missus, Quit Yer Bitchin’

Full disclosure: I had to switch my bracelet over half a dozen times yesterday, so…today is my new Day 1!  We’re off to an auspicious start! (That wasn’t a complaint, I swear!)

Actually, this is completely ok and somewhat expected.  Proponents of this challenge, including Will Bowen himself insist that there is no shame in Day 1.  Here’s a video of him doing/struggling with the challenge. (It’s only 3 minutes long!)

But still, having to switch it like, 6 times?  Even I was a little surprised. I did notice that the complaints that surfaced were these bitchy little throw-away thoughts.  They were grumpy impulse vocalizations about little things around the house, for the most part. So, at the very least, I would say that I am already becoming a little more aware. We will see if that awareness pays off today!

On a totally different note, Jason brought home a foldable craft table yesterday!  I am very happy about this, because it gives me a space to set up my candle-making supplies in the basement!  Candles are fun to make, but a they are a bit time-consuming (they must be left untouched for many hours while drying) and always a little messy.  Up until now, my candle-making operations have been very limited. NOW I can definitely get a few going at once. Look at me, not taking over any kitchen counter space!

20180720_101516
Got an outlet right above the table. BTW, those tights you see are handy for rubbing away slight flaws/ seams left from the candle molds.

 

20180720_101555
Most people’s partners/parents/roommates do NOT want this to happen to their stovetop.  Candles require dedicated materials!

I am currently making a “Goddess” candle for myself.  It contains scrap wax from the last one I had, and I think it’s turning out to be a bit of a smokey blue.  I have zero complaints about that! (I use God and Goddess representation candles in my spiritual practice.)  

20180720_101542.jpg
This is normal.  The first wax pour typically sinks quite a bit.  A second pour is required. It will look like a regular candle soon enough, I promise!

Anyway, having a little time right now to do things like make candles and putter around the house should put me in a very positive frame of mind.  Hopefully making it easier to cut out any and all complaints?

Either way, I am anxious to get the hot plate heated up and to get that second pour on the go!  I can’t wait to get this one out of the mold and onto the altar.

In light and love,

Jennnq

Hitting the Week Running

I ran 6 miles yesterday, and I am definitely feeling it.  I am getting back to running!  Although it is hard to come to terms with my current limits, (did I really used to be able to run 18 miles at a stretch?) just being out and being well enough to pound pavement is such a gift.

Running and I go way back.  I was never fast, and I was far from being “athletic” as a kid.  I guess I always admired runners, and was fascinated by the sport. Once I finally got to know long slow distance, I kinda fell in love.

Like with weightlifting or the theater, I think once you pass a certain point you’re an addict. I love it, but it comes with a bundle of nerves every time.  That feeling lasts at least until I manage to get going, although I sometimes even get butterflies about running while I’m running.  It’s a strange feeling; like I am not sure if I can do it, even though I have done it plenty of times before.  But the nerves are bundled up with joyful excitement too. There’s this primitive part of my brain that is always ecstatic about running.  That’s enough for me to keep returning to it.

Even if the road was tough, you can’t help but feel better after a run.  I struggled a bit yesterday to find my pace.  Still, around mile 3 I finally figured it out, and I felt pretty great from there.  It is nice to be happily recovering on Monday morning.  

I feel like I’m ready, more or less, to start another week.  I am hoping to be all-round “better” this week; more productive, more active, and more in line with my own ideals.  I am trying to do more of what matters to me, and still working on that work-life balance thing.  Running seems like a good start for that.