As you may have read in my previous posts, I am doing the Early to Rise March Challenge with Money Saving Mom. Today is Day Five of the challenge and here's my recap.

Yesterday was a success! I woke up at 6 am and was out of bed by 6:04 am. I settled into my comfy spot and was able to read my ETR and 40 Day Prayer Challenge Daily Readings. I was able to cook and eat breakfast at home (a feat that rarely happens), and spend time praying. What Andy says in the book is true. I felt like a success before I even left my apartment! That feeling of accomplishment allowed me to enter my day feeling positive and confident that I could tackle my day.

Today was two steps back. I snoozed until 6:50 am. I didn't prep lunch or breakfast last night, which meant I had to do both this morning. If Monday's challenge was such a success, why couldn't I duplicate the effect today? Well, I did not go to bed on time. Just as he mentions in the book, going to bed on time is key to waking up early. I was up late for a good cause (helping my mom buy her plane ticket to DC!) but I could have handled it earlier in the day so as not to affect my sleep pattern. I was using the internet and doing everything but trying to sleep while in bed. I will say that I had a pretty emotional evening so I slacked off on my night time ritual. I've learned that doing that is a no-no! One thing that is helpful is installing an alarm on your phone that tells you when it's time to go to bed. I have one. And it is sounding off! On that note (yawn), it's time for me to start preparing for bed. Tomorrow, I will win!!! Now, pray it snows so I can get the day off :) Good night y'al

What do you do when loved ones want to text/talk/etc. during the time you are preparing for bed or in bed?
 
For the past three days I have been following the Early to Rise (ETR) Challange. Here's a recap of how it's been going.

Day One - I rolled (literally) out of bed at 6:37 am. Later than my goal (6 am) but earlier than usual. I still saw it as a sign of progress! I was able to snuggle up on the couch and listen to the Early to Rise Introduction. This took longer than I expected so I had to jump up and get ready for work. I read the Day One Challenge on my way to work. I was behind 3 days in my 40 Day Prayer Challenge readings, so I completed those as well. When I got to work, I prayed for my day to be productive and encouraging to the youth I encountered. Great way to begin the day.

Day Two - I was awaken by a phone call at 7:45 am and could not get back to sleep. So I definitely met my 8 am wake up time! I was able to read in both my devotional and Day Two of ETR.

Day Three - Getting out of bed today was a struggle. I have been using this sleep tracker phone app and I snoozed until about 8:40 am. Once I got out of bed, I was able to cook, eat, read ETR and pray. This is the most productive I've been before church in a long time, maybe the first time ever I am lookin forward to keeping up the momentum this week!

On that note, it's my bedtime. Night y'all!
 
Early to bed, early to rise. Makes a (wo)man healthy, wealthy, and wise.
We have all heard the adage "early to bed, early to rise, makes a man healthy, wealthy, and wise."...but how many of us live it on a daly basis? I for one can say, not me! As I mentioned in my previous post, I have never been an early riser (unless you count nghtly unplanned awakenings at 3 am). That being said, there is something about the early morning hours that is attractive to me. I would love to be awake to watch the sunrise, have time for meditation, prayer, and yoga to get myself centered before the hustle and bustle of the day. A few years ago, I was the coffee gal at my previous church. I had to arrive early to get everything set up so that my fellow church goers could enjoy a cup of joe before the service. Thankfully, I lived in walking distance to the church, which was helpful. Though it was a constant struggle to peel myself from the bed, I enjoyed the serenity of an early Sunday mornng walk. Most times, it felt like the world was all mine. The streets were so quiet and I could be alone with my thoughts on the walk to church. I think this is how my love of walking started.


 

The Sordid Tales of Obstructive
Sleep Apnea (OSA)

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I'm sure the picture to the left doesn't look very glamorous, and I am aware that talking about and showing pictures reflecting obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) just isn't sexy. Marketing people have figured out that sex can sell just about anything - except for this. Well, if they have, I haven't seen it done. Real talk about health is never deemed sexy, but it could save someone's life. I am a pretty private person but I want to share my story. Maybe it will help someone else on their journey with OSA, or prompt them to talk with their doctor.

In November 2011, I went to my doctor for what I thought was a cold or a sinus infection. I figured she would give me some antibiotics and send me on my way. But she didn't. And because of that, I am confident that she saved my life (or at the very least helped improve the quality of my life). She told me that she didn't think I needed a prescription, and "as long as you are sleeping well at night, you should be fine." What she didn't know is that I have rarely slept well my entire life. I go through periods of insomnia, periods of frequent nightmares, and on rare occasion, periods of restful sleep. I knew this wasn't "normal," but I just figured it was something I would have to learn to live with. I usually take it where I can get it. I told her about my history of poor sleep patterns, and she referred me to a sleep center for an overnight sleep study.


 
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Today I took some time to get some much needed rest. After church and brunch with a good friend, I posted up on the couch with my blanket, pillow, and laptop for sleep and a movie! With as much as I need to do around the house and with crafting, it was great to have some down time. While browsing one of my favorite blogs, www.moneysavingmom.com, I came across a post featuring the ebook Early to Rise. I recently completed the ebook What the Most Successful People Do Before Breakfast (book review coming soon), and I wondered how this book would compare.

I was excited to learn that this ebook is a bit longer and "meatier." The purpose of the book, from what I can tell, is to learn how to wake up earlier in the day to lead a more productive, enjoyable life. In addition,
www.moneysavingmom.com author Crystal is hosting a challenge for the month of March. The objective is to take thirty-one days to work at waking up earlier (and going to bed earlier!). I have never professed to be a morning person, but I know that I am not as productive with my days as I would like. I am single wth no children -- I should have tons of free time right? Um, well, it doesn't really play out like that. One of my goals is to be a better steward of my time and I think this challenge will be very beneficial. Crystal will post daily updates on her blog during the month of March to discuss her progress/challenges, and others can share their progress as well. I know that it will be a challenge for me, as I already have a sleep issue that leaves me sleep and energy deprived, but I plan to put my best foot forward and give it a shot! If you're interested in joining me, sign up for daily emails at www.moneysavingmom.com.

My biggest challenge will be to consistently keep my PM routine in order to get up early. There always seems to be a phone call, text message, movie/tv show, or something I just have to get online for that keeps me from being consistent. In my research on creating healthful rest, I've learned that it is best to put away computers, television, and other electronics at least one hour before bedtime. Having a smartphone and frequently sleeping with my computer in the bed pose a huge issue to restful sleep. It will be difficult to break these long-standing poor bedtime habits, but I remind myself that the return will be great -- a night of restful sleep, arising in the morning ready for the day, and a productive and energy filled day. All of these things work together so that I can fulfill my purpose and goals each day!


    What do you think your biggest challenge will be with rising earlier? Are you a night owl that is now a morning person? I'd love to hear about your experience!! Any advice for those of us who struggle getting up in the mornings? Leave your comments and tips below!!

 
Hey y'all! So I realize I have been a bit MIA lately, but it's with good cause. I am excited to say that I officially launched my side hustle of Sunshine Cards and Coasters last weekend! Thanks to some supportive friends and colleagues, I have finally taken the next step after talking about it and dreaming about it for such a long time! I am so excited, did I mention that yet?! :)

I make handmade, custom coasters with felt/cork backing using festive scrapbook paper or beautiful color/black and white images. You can send me specific images you'd like to use or I can find some for you. The most recent ones I made featured Marvel, Cape Town, South Africa, Butterflies, and Lions. I've even made coasters representing a fraternity.  Message or email me for more information on materials and pricing.

In addition to coasters, I continue to make specialty handmade cards and envelopes. I do standard cards (thank you, birthday, sympathy, cards for expectant parents, etc.). If you have any special requests please let me know.

In the coming weeks, I plan to add pictures to my online website for purchase through the use of PayPal, and I plan to create an Etsy account as well. If you're looking for that special gift for yourself or a loved one, something that's unique and can't be found in a store, then you're in the right place! Not local? No worries - I will ship your items to you! Want to commemorate that special occasion, and have a useful item too? I'm your woman!

I will be posting more pics and such in the next few days so stay tuned!!!



 
A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies, said Jojen. The man who never reads lives only one. - George R.R. Martin, A Dance with Dragons
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One of my favorite pasttimes is reading. But I confess I have been slacking over the past year. I have started several books but I have not completed any of them. My goal for 2013 is to read a minimum of twelve books. To encourage myself towards this goal, I am creating a book list. Originally, I set specific books to read each month. However I realize that was a bit too scheduled for me, so instead here is a list of books I'd like to read at some point this year. Chances are I may find something not on this list and decide it's a must read - and for me, that has to be okay. I tried to create a mix of genres (fiction, non-fiction, biography,..) so that I have a more well-rounded reading experience. With the exception of 2 books, I own all the books on this list. This goal will not only increase my reading, but I will meet my goal of reading all the books I own! I'll post reviews of each book after I've read them, including any books I review for Tyndale (titles listed as soon as I get them). Looking forward to reading more in 2013! Any must reads for me to add to my list? What are you reading in 2013?


 
Time is certainly flying by now that I am back to work. Here's a quick recap of what I've been up to...

Back to work, back to the daily grind. It's F.A.F.S.A. time in the school! It's also the time of year when everyone says "FASFA" which is a HUGE pet peeve of mine...LOL I'm not 100% back to health yet but I am MUCH better than I was at the end of last year. Those two weeks of winter break were really restorative for me. I am excited about the new semester and working with the students. OAN, I just received an email from a student I worked with last year. I am so happy to hear that she is doing well, and it feels great to know I helped her along the way. Shine bright hon, shine bright! :)

Other than working, I have been laying low and catching up on rest and all my favorite television shows, which feels amazing. Who knew I would like not having a jam-packed schedule?! It feels GOOD to take care of myself, as it should. A good friend (also known as the pastor I'm receiving grief counseling from) had some wise words for me on Monday after I mentioned feeling guilty about my empty schedule. She reminded me that I do have a "ministry," which consists of taking care of myself and my mother right now during our time of grief. She admonished me to not make any huge, life-changing decisions during the first year of grieving. Before committing to any decisions, I am to ask myself if is energy draining or energy giving. So far, I have worked on vision boarding, improving my health, monitoring my finances, and attending church (all of which were energy giving). Sticking to my goal of having less commitments. Go, me!

I am making a concerted effot to get in bed earlier, so that I can sleep earlier. Tonight I bought a humidifier to help with my sinus problems before I meet with the allergist next week. I'll do an update at the end of the month as to how I'm progressing towards myother goals for the year.

Finally...drumroll please....I am super excited to announce that I am now an approved book reviewer for Tyndale Blog Network! I will receive free Christian books to read and review on my blog. I learned about this fantastic opportunity from the blog
www.monesavingmom.com.. The reviews will be posted where the book is advertised. And to put my urge to over commit at bay, I can only review one book at a time. How serendipitous. I can't wait to start reading and reviewing books! Stay tuned :)

So that's what I've been up to since returning to DC. On that note, Night ya'll!
 
As some of you may know, I have become increasingly more frugal over the past year. I am excited to say that I have found some awesome deals in the New Year! Wanted to pass along the info in case you wanted to get some great items for less. I spent less than $10 in Target (which is a huge feat!). I don't plan to do many posts on couponing and such, but these deals are too good to pass up!

Target has had some awesome deals the past week. Up to 90% off of all Christmas items, including:
  • Hot Cocoa Goldfish for 19 cents (current goldfish varieties sell for $1.89)
  • Angry Birds Stocking for $1.30 (regularly $13.99)
  • Earbuds for $1.39 (regularly $14)
  • Various Christmas Decorations as low as 20 cents, to include bags, gift wrap, stationery, and gift tags
  • TONKA mini trucks are going for 39 cents (these are with the regular price toys)
  • Also, if you can find any, there are mini bath sponges for 9 cents made by Bathery!


In addition, I found a pair of black ankle boots at New York and Company for only $15 (regularly $60)!! Granted they were the only pair at that location, but who's to know if you can't find a good deal of your own :) They also had several racks where all items were $10 each.Be prepared for limited sizes though.

Happy Shopping and please comment if you find any other awesome deals!.
 
Here are my goals for the new year - my 31st year!! I have already set a reminder to review my goals on the 28th of each month, to make sure that I stay on track, measure my success, and make adjustments as necessary. I have chosen to create goals in several different areas: financial, spiritual, educational, fitness/health, and emotional/mental health. These areas are my priorities for living my best life in 2013.

Financial: This is an area I have been improving since Fall 2012. As I mentioned in my "Reflections on 2012" post, I paid off my credit card debt and set a budget. My finances took a hit when I had to fly home unexpectedly, so this year I will make an even greater effort to stick to my budget and make sure I have emergency funds.
  • Tithe 10% of my income for 12 consecutive months.
  • Continue my ExodusCry Partnership for 12 consecutive months.
  • Save for 3 months of my emergency fund by December 2013. (specific amount is recorded on my personal budget sheet).
  • Increase my credit by paying off my PLOC by March 2013.
  • Monitor my accounts and budget on a daily basis. Prior to making a splurge purchase, make sure that I have met all of my other financial goals.

Spiritual: an area that I have not remained consistent in due to being overcommitted in the past.
  • Attend church regularly (at least 3 Sundays per month) for worship and fellowship. 
  • Wake up at 5:30 am to read my Bible, pray, and exercise on weekdays.
  • Complete the 40 Day Prayer Challenge w/Journal and 40 Days of Solidarity with the Poor w/DVD.
  • Regularly participate in SE neighborhood outreach with Small Group on Saturdays (at least 3 per month). One small group per semester. Do not over-commit!

Educational: I love learning! I don't want this area to lag just because I am no longer a formal student.
  • Read one book each month (minimum). Select from a variety of books (fiction, non-fiction, spiritual, biographies, etc.).