Three Ways to Avoid Burnout: August Running Report

August is over and weeks 7-11 of training are complete. 173.2 miles for August, an all time high mileage month for me, a number I never dreamed was possible to run in one month. Time is flying, race day will be here before I know it. This month I dug in deep as the miles increased, experienced things I've never experienced in all my years of running, persevered on hard days, and grown so much in the process. Running 18-20 miles in one run is not for the faint of heart. But, when you complete such a task, it's a huge milestone. When you realize that you are capable of much more than you ever thought possible, it is confidence building.

I've been asked by several people if I regret my decision to run a full marathon, or if I'm tired of running yet.  Now twelve weeks into my seventeen week training, I can honestly say that I'm not burned out, I still love running, and I'm still happy with my decision to run a full marathon. Here's three ways, I've found this training cycle, to avoid burnout.

1. Be Fully Engaged. A podcast I listened to recently mentioned burnout usually occurs because you have become disengaged from what you are doing. I think the reason I haven't experienced burnout is that I fully invested myself in my goal. I picked a training plan, and have been following/working the plan closely (still haven't missed a training run yet). I'm starting to see the payoff of "putting in the work" with gains such as faster pace, feeling stronger each week as distances increase, and the satisfaction of hitting the pace times in a hard workout. I'm excited and looking forward to race day to see the results of what happens when you invest yourself fully. If you are feeling burnout set in, try to reengage with your goal. Does the goal you set still make you excited? Maybe you have been working too hard and need to pull back and set small, attainable wins to make you love doing that activity or working toward that goal again.

2. Revisit Your Why. I think it's also important to revisit your "why." Why did you set this goal in the first place? For me it is multifaceted. One, to challenge myself and do something hard. Less than 1% of the US population has run a marathon. What a feeling of accomplishment on race day to cross the finish line, completing something hard that most people have not done. Two, for the physical, mental, and emotional health benefits. I can tell a huge difference in how I feel physically and my mood, when I exercise and move my body. It's a non negotiable for me. I always want to start my day doing some form of exercise. Three, to be an example/role model to my kids. I want them to see that you can challenge yourself, do hard things, work hard, and follow through in life! I hope that my example will inspire them to set their own goals and go after them. Lastly, I'm curious to see what I can do. I've never run a marathon before, will I love running 26.2 miles? What will my time be? Will I want to do another marathon, or is this a one and done thing? So many unknowns but I'm excited to see how this training cycle will wrap up and what it will lead to in the future. When training gets hard, and it will, remind yourself why you are working toward your goal to keep you excited and motivated to keep working.

3. Set Manageable Goals. I set out this training cycle with a time goal in mind, but I also have several different goal levels. I think it's important to have a multi tiered approach to goal setting, to not be so laser focused on a set goal time that you put too much pressure on yourself. Pressure to perform leads to burnout. I actually have five different goal levels that I've set for myself this training cycle. Level one, to cross the finish line. A huge feat in and of itself. Level two, a sub 4:00 marathon. All the way to my level five goal. I think it's good, healthy, and will set yourself up for success and not disappointment, by having many different level goals. 

I have a set time goal that I'm using as an infrastructure, that I've built my training around, to set myself up the best I can to see what I can do. Some runners set such a specific goal, or one too far out of reach right now, that when they see any inkling that the end result may not match their expectation, they become disengaged and start to lose interest. Enjoyment for me has come from the long term satisfaction of putting in the time, running each training workout, and putting in the hard work necessary to push myself. Whether I hit my ultimate top tier goal, or just level one, I've won! I'm excited to see what I can accomplish after putting in the time, and hard work. Set manageable multi level goals to avoid the pressure to perform and avoid burnout.

Another milestone ahead this week as I go into my first of three 20+ mile long runs before race day. Three hard weeks left, and then it time to taper. Unbelievable! Keep pushing ahead, putting in the time and work, in whatever goal you are working toward. You can do hard things. Don't give up.

Three Things I've Learned From Marathon Training-July Running Log

Training for a FULL marathon (26.2 miles) has always been a goal that seemed a little out of reach. Not that I thought I couldn't do it, but I knew I had to have the desire and drive to make training for all those miles and weeks happen. Now it's time to make that lofty, out of reach goal, a reality.

I have been pleased with my training cycle so far. I've really challenged myself with my training plan and am proud that I've made every run happen (that's huge)! I haven't missed one yet. These first weeks of training have already taught me three things.  

One. You can do hard things. When I decided I wanted to run a marathon I didn't just put a goal of finishing it, but finishing it with a certain time. Some in the running world would say that's a little crazy for a first time marathoner, but I love a good challenge! I started researching plans and when I decided on one I began to pencil each days training workout in my planner. As I sat back and looked at the months and miles I would be running pile up, my initial thoughts were, "NO WAY!" It was unbelievable to look at the plan as a whole, see all the mileage planned out, and think I could do it. However, I remember having those same thoughts all those years ago when I saw my first half marathon training plan in a SHAPE Magazine and got the crazy idea I would try to run a half marathon. Now, thirteen half marathon races under my belt, I can't believe I ever thought it seemed out of reach. You can do hard things!  

As the weeks went by before training began, I even thought about changing to a less ambitious plan, but the start day on the calendar quickly arrived, and training began. Of course when I saw Day 1 was scheduled on the day we were on vacation in Death Valley National Park, California (known as the hottest place in North America 😅🌡), I laughed but wasn't deterred. I started.  Plain and simple, I put one foot in front of the other and focused on the first days run, got it done, and have been doing that every day since! You can do hard things!

Two. You have to want it. You won't be successful if you don't have the desire and drive to make it happen.  You can't set a goal and forget about it. It's the day in and day out commitment that will get you to the finish line. Never have I been so dedicated to a training cycle more than this one. Maybe it's the fact that I've never run a marathon before. Or possibly, that at the half marathon races that I've run I'm so ready to be done at 13.1 miles and had the thought, "I can't believe those full marathoners have to do what I just did twice!" 😜 

I know I need to be trained up and prepared to not feel like I'm dying come race day. I've not skipped a workout yet, running while out of town and on vacation (in two different states), moved long runs to mid week when I knew I would be gone on a Saturday, and persevered in hot and humid temperatures. July is not an easy running month, but summer miles equals a fast fall! If you want it, you can make it happen.

Three. The only one standing in your way is you. The last long run of July was 14 miles and the training plan had me set to complete it in 2 hours and 15 minutes (9:39 min/mile pace). It's easy to be intimidated when seeing numbers that you need to hit during a workout. In the past, I've not followed training plans so closely, or I've only followed plans to give me a distance guideline, not a pace goal. At first I thought that pace seemed overzealous to hold over 14 miles this early in training (6 weeks in). However, I didn't let my thoughts discourage me, I decided to trust my training and see what I could do. I finished in 2 hours and 14 minutes (9:34 min/mile pace)! Coming in 5 seconds per mile faster, and one minute to spare. If I would have given in to the fear of failure and not tried, I would have missed out on seeing that I could do it! The only one standing in your way is you. Hard work pays!

144.5 miles for July, an all time high mileage running month for me, which is only the beginning! Onward and upward, in miles that is 😂! You can make your goals happen. Just simply start. Put one foot in front of the other, one day at a time. This applies not only to running, but any goal you have set for yourself. What goals are you currently working toward? I would love to hear.

My thoughts on baby #6...It's a GIRL!"

I have always wanted to have a daughter, and finding out that was going to happen after 13+ years of motherhood, has definitely been a highlight and bright spot this year, after 2020 being the year of challenges, let downs, and cancellations. We found out in July that baby #6 was a girl and I told Chris that was probably the most exciting conversation I have ever had with someone I didn't know. When the nurse asked if I had any inkling what this baby might be I said, "Well, I have five boys..." 

She then jumped in before I could say anything else and exclaimed in complete amazement, "You have FIVE BOYS?!?" 

I said, "So, is it a boy?" My heart pounding as I waited to hear.

She repeated again as if to try to make sure she had heard me correctly, "YOU HAVE FIVE BOYS?!?" 

I said with eager anticipation and excitement, "It's another boy isn't it?" Curious if my boy mom status I had held for over thirteen years was still intact. 

She then said, "Your five boys are going to have a little SISTER!" I heard the words, but couldn't comprehend. I was stunned. I said, "Really!?!" in amazement not thinking that was even possible.

We both started to cheer and then I asked her what any mom with all one gender would ask, "Can you tell me that one more time?" She laughed and told me that we were indeed going to have a baby girl!

Growing up I was surrounded by boys (I have two younger brothers, I was the only girl trombone player in band, and teachers often sat me with the wild and rambunctious boys to help neutralize the situation 😂), boys are what I knew. So, as a young girl, when friends and I would imagine what our future families might look like I would always respond, "I want all boys and 1 girl (not knowing how many boys that would be 😂)." Fast forward many, many years later, to have the Lord answer my hearts desire to have a daughter, I'm filled with awe, gratitude, wonder, and excitement. Over the years, I began to think that one desire would go unmet. I love all my boys, and the special calling the Lord gave me of being a boy mom these last almost 14 years. But, I often wondered why I couldn't also get to experience having a daughter. Some thoughts that went through my head....Did the Lord think I wouldn't be a good mom to a girl? Maybe it was just my calling to raise a few good, godly men. After 5 sweet boys we thought our days of expanding our family were complete. I am honored and blessed to be the mom to five handsome boys.

To be given such a gift, at 40 years old nonetheless, when I wasn't even sure another baby would be possible, is a huge blessing from the Lord. When I sit in awe and wonder of this sweet blessing, I can't help but be reminded God knew this plan for our family all along; that this sweet girl, would be the youngest of six, with five older brothers. He knows everything about her, things that we do not yet know; what she looks like, her personality, her gifts and talents, how she will handle all these brothers 😂,  her future occupation, and the list goes on and on. The one thing I do know is He has a great plan and purpose for her life and I'm thankful that plan includes her being in our family. Now, I'm praying and trusting God will equip me with what I need to be a good mom to a girl.

👉🏻Something to encourage your heart and mine today. When you think the story is already written, or a door has been closed, or you are in a season of waiting; know God is the One who knows the plan and purpose for  your life.  Trust Him and His timing. He has a good and perfect plan and purpose for you.

Five Things Friday-October 2

 It's October! I can't even began to tell you how much I love fall, my favorite season hands down. I downloaded this cute free print by KaylaAimee.com, you can find it here to celebrate my favorite season and one of my favorite books of all time, Anne of Green Gables. I am definitely glad we live in a world where there are Octobers!

{one} Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Loaf

While we are on the topic of fall I have to share my favorite fall pumpkin bread recipe. My friend Libby posted a pic of the yummy pumpkin bread she made the other day, and the moment I saw it I knew I had to make some. It looked delicious. And wouldn't you know, I had just got home from the grocery store 😂, so I craved pumpkin bread until my next trip to the store. She sent me the recipe and it is a Copycat Starbucks Pumpkin Loaf, by CopyKat. If you love pumpkin you have to make this recipe. I left out the cardamom and pumpkin seeds and it was still delicious! With the amount of boys I have in my house one loaf didn't last long and I had to make another batch. Just FYI one can of pumpkin puree will make two loaves so next time I will just make two at once! 

{two} Johnson Farms Mums

Each fall one of my favorite things to do is drive over to Johnson Farms and get mums! They have the best  mums around. They are big 3 gallon mums for $12.99. I love that they catch my eye each time I pull into my driveway. If you are in or near Kansas City, Johnson Farms is a must stop for fall mums. It's a working farm with a Pumpkin Patch too, and don't forget to grab some Pumpkin Donuts when you are there.

{three} Lottie Lemon bows. 

Most of you know I'm a mom to five boys and until recently did not have one stitch of pink or bows in my house! Shortly after finding out baby #6 was a girl I vividly remember the moment I realized that I would get to buy girly things, and I was so excited! When it comes to little girl hair accessories there is a huge selection out there, so I began the search for what I envisioned on our baby girl (or my style, I guess you would say...that's the fun part when they are little you get to dress them how you want, right! 🙌🏻). I found a lot of cute, amazing bow companies, but many were monthly based subscription and I wanted to find a shop where I could order what I wanted (I needed some good basic colors that would go with a lot) and not be tied to a subscription. I found Lottie Lemon on etsy and I loved that she such a large selection of colors, prints, and that you even pick the style you want each bow. She has a fun chart to help you make your selection. 

She has sets she has put together that you can purchase or you can do a custom set, which is what I did. I know I will be back to order more! My first set arrived and I was over the moon.

The quality is amazing, and I may have let out a squeal over the simple fact that I now have hair bows in my house! Definitely check her out on ETSY.

{four} Trustworthy Bible Study by Lysa TerKeurst

As I was studying in 1 Kings this week in my Bible study I was reminded that God already holds control and the ultimate victory, therefore, we can trust Him. 2020 has been quite a year, hasn't it? It's thrown us all some curve balls and challenges we didn't see coming. Tension is running high, as an important election is quickly approaching and social media is quickly becoming a place of division. I'm not one to get heated about political issues, I've always voted for the candidate that will support the issues that line up with my convictions. But social media has given people an accessible platform to quickly and easily say whatever they want, and I will say, I have found myself getting worked up over something someone has posted. It's easy to feel discouraged but the reminder this week that "God is good at being God, so I can trust Him," (a statement that Lysa TerKeurst made in our video session) brought so much comfort. I'm so thankful for God's Word. It is living and active and I shouldn't be surprised that the timing of what I was reading and studying in 1 Kings would align so timely with what I'm going through today.

{five} Fudge Filled Bars 

I've been making these bars since I was in high school. Back before the internet was the go to place for recipes, my mom would get a monthly magazine called, Taste of Home. I always looked forward to browsing the recipes each month. She made Fudge Filled Bars, after seeing them in an issue, and they were an immediate hit. I would make them for tailgate parties in college, and friends would always ask for the recipe. I'm telling you this is a must add to your list! I made some on Monday night for the Chiefs game, and my boys always devour them. I will say, don't forget the salt! I've done that once or twice (on accident) and they still taste amazing, but the salt adds the perfect balance to the sweetness in this recipe! You can find the recipe HERE.

 Happy Friday Friends! Enjoy the beautiful October weather! What are your favorite things from this week?

In case you missed it this week:

Pregnancy Fitness 

Pregnancy Fitness

 Today, I'm 24 weeks with baby #6!

Let's talk fitness during pregnancy. Did you know that researchers at Duke did a study and found that pregnant women reach the same peak levels of endurance as those competing in Ironman--so the physical intensity of pregnancy is like running a 40-week marathon? WOW...and that's without even getting up from the couch!

I've stayed active my entire pregnancy and it's made a huge difference, in my physical and emotional health. **Also, before we go any further, please talk with your doctor to make sure it is safe and you are cleared to workout during pregnancy. Most of the time if you aren't experiencing any complications and are not high risk they will clear you to keep doing what you were doing pre-pregnancy.

I've been doing 3-5 days of group training at my gym and running. I'll be honest, as a runner who hit a PR last year, it was discouraging to see my times begin to increase and workouts begin to get hard. But, I kept showing up. And do you know what? It didn't take long for the disappointment to wear off, and for my mindset to shift to feeling success in the fact that I showed up, got it done, and didn't give up. It's paying off. I've not had any round ligament pain this pregnancy, or any aches and pains! And I'm 40 years old! I would say the only thing I've done differently this pregnancy is consistent weight training. I can't recommend it enough.

Tips for Pregnant Mommas

1. Find an activity that you enjoy, it will help you stay motivated. And don't judge your workout based on time or amount of weight you can lift, etc. This also isn't the time to be setting out to smash any personal records or hard to reach goals. I find it's better to be cautious than overzealous.

2. Listen to your body. Know when to slow down or take a break. Some days you just don't feel like working out, and that's okay.

3. Don't give up (unless you are told to suspend exercise by a healthcare professional). The benefits are so good for you and baby.

4. Drink lots of water! It's important to stay hydrated. Don't walk out the door without it!

5. Be proud of yourself for any amount of activity you accomplish. You are after all, already running a 40-week marathon!

Five Things Friday

It's May! Here are five things from me on this Fabulous Friday!

{one} 

Garden. Last Saturday, I spent time tilling my small garden and getting it ready to plant my new crop of vegetables and fruit 🍅😉. I was so excited that we stopped by my favorite small business plant/garden pop up shop and picked up some plants and flowers. I came straight home and got them planted, and woke up the next morning to unexpected rain💦. There was two inches of water standing in my garden! I must say I was a little bummed, if I had known I would have held off in planting. However, I think all is well. I planted tomatoes (4), green peppers(4), red peppers (1), macarroni peppers (4), jalapeños (4), zucchini (1), and basil (1). I would like to find cilantro (I've stopped at two stores and still no cilantro). I've never had much luck with my bell peppers or zucchini but maybe this will be my year. What are your favorite things to plant?

{two}

Get Out of Your Head: Stopping the Spiral of Toxic Thoughts by Jennie Allen
I can't wait for this book to arrive on my doorstep so I can start reading. Would you like to join me?

"In Get Out of Your Head, Jennie inspires and equips us to transform our emotions, our outlook, and even our circumstances by taking control of our thoughts. Our enemy is determined to get in our heads to make us feel helpless, overwhelmed, and incapable of making a difference for the kingdom of God. But when we submit our minds to Christ, the promises and goodness of God flood our lives in remarkable ways. It starts in your head. And from there, the possibilities are endless."

Jennie Allen also has a Bible study on this topic that I will be starting with a group of women via Zoom, in a few weeks, a 6-week study in the book of Philippians. If you would like to get involved in a women's Bible study, I would love for you to join us.

{three}

Whole 30 Comfort Food. If you are looking for a "clean eating" meal that tastes great give these Lazy Meatloaf Muffins a try. The recipe calls for Whole 30 approved ketchup, My favorite is Primal Kitchen Ketchup Organic Unsweetened you can find it at Walmart, Target, and your local grocery store. I've made my own ketchup, but it just doesn't come close to Primal Kitchen's Ketchup! 

{four}

Next Tuesday, we are going to run a virtual 5K as a family, the Fiesta Frenzy5K, on Cinco De Mayo! It's been fun to have the boys get out and "train." It's a great way to for them to some physical activity, and to get out of the house. We have been taking daily 5K walks, where they either ride their bikes or walk. I hope that maybe we are developing little runners, and maybe one day some of my boys will want to do some distance running with me, a mom can dream 😉! But no matter what, it's great to get out and move your body and get some exercise. What have you been doing to get out and move?

{five} 

The Chosen. Have you heard of the new series on the life of Jesus? My family and I have thoroughly enjoyed this portrayal of Jesus. Check it out https://studios.vidangel.com/the-chosen. The Bible study I'm currently in "Finding I Am," by Lysa TerKeurst, looks at the "I Am" statements of Jesus. In the last episode of season one, two of those statements were covered and it's fun to see what you are studying in the Bible be acted out on the big screen.

Have a great weekend!

In case you missed it this week:

Healthy Chicken and Veggies

Healthy Chicken and Veggies

If you are looking for a healthy meal that the entire family will love, look no further. This easy chicken and veggie recipe is sure to be a crowd pleaser. It is a family favorite at our house! It even gets rave reviews from the picky teenager. Actually, the last time I made this meal my 13 year old said, "Mom, can you make this meal again soon?" My jaw about hit the floor. He's hard to please unless you are serving take out or anything that fits in the unhealthy category 😂. I felt like I had just won an Academy Award or 1st Place on Top Chef! 

The beauty of this recipe is you can use any combination of veggies you have on hand, and you can change it up each time you make it. It is a great meal for busy nights because you can prep the veggies ahead of time and simply line the pan and pop it right in the oven! If you serve it over cauliflower rice it is a clean eating recipe!

Healthy Chicken and Veggies

Ingredients:

• ●2 medium boneless chicken breasts, cut into pieces
• ●1 medium red onion, chopped
• ●1 medium zucchini chopped
• ●1 medium yellow squash
• ●broccoli florets (2 cups)
• ●bell peppers (any variety you would like. I used red, green, and orange bell peppers), chopped
• ●any other veggies you would like to use (mushroom and grape tomatoes are also delicious in this recipe)
• ●2 cloves garlic minced
• ●1 T Italian seasoning
• ●1 tsp salt
• ●1/2 tsp pepper
• ●1/2 tsp paprika
• ●2 T olive oil (avocado oil for clean eating recipe)
• ●Brown, Wild, or Cauliflower Rice, cooked (optional)

Instructions:

1. Pre-heat oven to 450 degrees. Line a cooking sheet/pan with aluminum foil, spray with cooking   spray.
2. Cut all veggies and chicken and line on cooking pan.
3. Drizzle chicken and veggies with olive oil.
4. Prepare seasoning in a small bowl, stir to combine and sprinkle evenly over chicken and veggies.
5. Bake 15-20 minutes until chicken is tender and veggies roasted.
6. Prepare rice, and place portion in bowl. Spoon chicken and veggies on top of rice.

Enjoy! This meal is delicious and is great for left overs!

Three Ways to Wait Well

You will be restless in your waiting, until you surrender your will to God.

Are you in a season of waiting? Maybe you are waiting on:

• *A child (positive pregnancy test or adoption)
• *A new job
• *Healing (illness, restoration of a relationship, or marriage)
• *A spouse
• *A loved one to come to Christ, or a wayward child to return home.

As humans we don't do waiting well. Why is that? Because we want what we want when we want it!

In the Bible (Genesis 15-18) we see Abraham and Sarah waited 25 years for the child the Lord had promised. The answer did not come until Abraham was 100 years old and Sarah, 99. By the world's standards, all hope seemed lost for them. During the waiting, Sarah let fear and doubt take hold and she took matters into her own hands by giving Abraham her maidservant, Hagar, so that Hagar might bear a child for them. Most of us are thinking, "HOLD ON! Stop! This is a bad idea." Yes, it was a bad idea, but how often do we try to step ahead of God and take control in situations in our life? We all may be a little more like Sarah than we thought.

God had promised Abraham that Sarah would be the "mother of nations." Genesis 17:16 tells us she would conceive and bear a son, but Sarah did not believe, so much so, that in Chapter 18 when she overheard the promise, she laughed. And the Lord responded,

"Why did Sarah laugh and say, 'will I really have a child, now that I am old' Is anything too hard for the Lord?" Genesis 18:13-14

Think about that for a moment. Is your situation too hard for the Lord? Is my situation too difficult for Jesus? No. Nothing is too hard for Him. Let that encourage you in your wait today.

Waiting is hard. Especially in our microwave mentality culture. Waiting can feel like a passive activity. That we have no part other than sitting and twiddling our thumbs, while time slowly ticks by, wallowing in our circumstances. Waiting is not a passive activity. God wants us to actively participate in the waiting, to seek Him. We do this by filling our mind with truth about God's character.

"Set your minds on what is above, not on what is on the earth." Colossians 3:2

Waiting reveals where we are putting our trust, in ourselves or in Christ? Let me give you three ways to wait well while putting your faith in Jesus, not self.

Three Ways to Wait Well

1. Seek Him Through His Word

To wait well, we need to seek Him through His Word. There we can find wisdom and patience for purposeful living. The Bible is full of God's promises, which bring hope in our waiting.

"For God has not given us a spirit of fearfulness, but one of power, love, and sound judgement." 2 Timothy 1:7

"Wait for the Lord; be strong and courageous. Wait for the Lord." Psalm 27:14

I love how the psalmist starts and ends the verse with the same phrase. By repeating it at the beginning and the end we see waiting was being emphasized. It was as if the psalmist knew would need to hear it twice for it to really sink in.

"Wait for the Lord." 

2. Seek Him Through Prayer

The second way to wait well is to seek Him through prayer. When we engage our Savior through prayer, the automatic response is we are no longer focusing on our fears, our troubles, our issues, or even our circumstances. We are fully present in our relationship with our Creator.

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus." Philippians 4:6-7

3. Seek Him Through His People

The third way to wait well is to seek Him through His people. We can find encouragement through fellowship of others. The primary purpose of the gathering is encouragement. Encouragement to live a faith-filled life, not a fear-filled life.

"And let us be concerned about one another in order to promote love and good works, not staying away from our worship meetings, as some habitually do, but encourage each other, all the more as you see the day drawing near." Hebrews 10:24-25

Peace will come in your waiting when you realize you exist for Him. As a believer in Christ, our life is a beautiful testimony to the saving grace of Jesus. When you focus on this fact, you realize that no matter the outcome of your waiting, your life will bring Him glory. No matter the outcome, whether it is what you hoped for or something less, your life will bring Him honor, if you are surrendering your will to His. When we have the right perspective on Christ and our circumstances, there is peace and purpose in the waiting.

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not rely on your own understanding; think about Him in all your ways, and He will guide you on the right paths." Proverbs 3:5-6

Valentine's Day Scavenger Hunt

One of my favorite childhood memories involved the Valentine's Day scavenger hunt that my mom would create for my brothers and I each year. She would create clues and my brothers and I would work together to figure out where the clue was taking us and at the end was always a fun surprise. What a fun way to make Valentine's Day special. I love that this activity encourages siblings to work together to read and figure out each clue, it is a fun way to promote team work and strengthen sibling bonds. Fun memories are sure to be made that will stand the test of time. 

This activity is quick and easy to put together. You just need a little prep work, paper or note cards to write the clues on, and a writing utensil! To make it easy, I sit down with a notebook and plan out the places I want to send the boys for each clue. After listing out fun locations in and around the house, I decide the order of the clue locations to send the boys the farthest distance between clues, so the entire hunt can last as long as possible! Now that you know the locations you are sending your kids, the last step is to write the clues. You can be as simple or creative as you like. You can make it festive by adding stickers or using Valentine cards to write the clues on.

A few fun places to send them include the mailbox, microwave, somewhere outside, shower or bath tub, closet, toy box, the sky is the limit. I like to get creative and have a few more challenging clues. You can use a line from a favorite book on their bookshelf and hide the clue in the book. I've hidden a clue inside a board game before, and they had to go get if off the shelf and open the box to find the next clue. I have as much fun creating the clues as the boys do figuring each one out and running to the next place.

Don't forget to write the clue number on each card so you don't forget the order. It makes it easy to hide. You will hand them clue #1 when it is time for the scavenger hunt to begin, so keep it out, and hide the rest of the clues. To ensure they don't see where you are hiding the clues, have them go to a room that you are not using during the hunt. Excitement will build as you are hiding the clues. 

At the last clue spot have a fun small treat or surprise waiting for each child, or a group treat. A few ideas would be a fun item from the dollar store or Target dollar spot, a small box of chocolates, book, favorite sweet treat, hair accessory, etc.

Another fun idea would be to create a family scavenger hunt and the last clue take you to your favorite ice cream shop for an ice cream treat.

Most years my boys want me to hide the clues all over again, even though they know where to go the second time around. They think it is so much fun, and watching the smiles and joy on their face is priceless! Each year they ask if we are going to do a scavenger hunt again, it has turned into a fun family tradition at our house. Enjoy making memories with your family this Valentine's Day!

Here are some more fun Valentine's Day ideas:

Valentine's Day Canvas Art for Kids

Hand Stirred Milkshakes

Special Valentine's Day Breakfast

How do you like to celebrate Valentine's Day with your family?

39 Things I've Learned About Myself

Yesterday, I turned 39! I thought it would be fun to share 39 things I have learned about myself over the years!

1. I'm an early riser.

2. I prefer the beach to the mountains (but I love the mountains too)!

3. I love having a big family.

4. I'm very goal oriented. I love to set a goal, plan how I'm going to reach it, and go after it!

5. I'm not a naturally organized person, but once I get a system or plan in place for a certain area, I can stay organized.

6. I work well under pressure.

7. Chris is my favorite person, and I love spending time with him.

8. I love to laugh. I love to be around people who make me laugh.

9. When I feel stressed, I like quiet.

10. Reading God's Word not only draws me closer to Him, but takes the focus off me and places it on Him, lessening anxiety and worry in my life.

11. I feel the best when I eat clean.

12. If I could go back and pick a college major today, I would pick something completely different.

13. My life as mom, has brought me more joy than I ever knew was possible. It's a hard job, but also rewarding.

14. I have more time than I think I do, I've been finding this by staying off my phone.

15. Being creative brings me joy.

16. I love to read, but would pick doing something with my hands/being creative to fill my free time nine times out of ten.

17. I like to mow the grass. Random. I don't mind it at all. Maybe it's the instant gratification of the nice neat rows of a manicured lawn as you go up and down each row. Now that I have boys that are old enough to help with this chore, I make sure I allow them enough mowing time 😂.

18. Chipolte is one of my favorite places to eat.

19. I love a classic, tailored style of clothing.

20. I love to learn new things.

21. I love to run. I found this completely on my own. I would take off from my house with my walkman back in junior high and high school. I never come home from a run disappointed that I went. I love to run long distances. Short races don't do it for me, half marathon (13.1 miles) is where it's at (about to run my 12th in October). I would love to run at least one full marathon, maybe before I turn 40!

22. When something is bothering me, I tend to hold it in. Chris has to often pull it out of me.

23. My favorite quick snack is hummus. Thankfully, two of my boys love it too!

24. I love all the seasons. There is something amazing about experiencing 4 seasons. You never get tired of any one season.

25. Jesus has to be the one I turn to.

26. I'm destined to be surrounded by boys. I have two brothers (who are both great by the way), and always wanted a sister. I now have five boys! We got a puppy last Christmas, and I was sure we would pick a girl dog, but picked a male goldendoodle puppy. See always surround by boys 💙💙💙💙💙💙💙!

27. I don't like change. The older I get, the more I see that change is hard for me.

28. I love Hallmark movies ❤️.

29. I would pick a pedicure over a manicure any day. They last longer.

30. I don't like waste. If the boys get an apple out to eat, I hate finding an apple with one bite out of it.

31. I'm old school in many ways. I still love to write with pen and paper. I have a paper planner. In a day and age where most people text. I still enjoy a good phone call with a friend, especially if we need to catch up on life.

32. I love photography.

33. I don't like conflict. I avoid it at all cost.

34. I prefer deep cleaning to surface cleaning (weird, I know).

35. I enjoy a good game of badminton or whiffle ball in the backyard.

36. I love a good deal!

37. I run on spark water! I haven't had soda pop in almost 2 years!

38. I don't like my calendar to be jam packed with activity. I like to have margin built in. I love nights at home. A slow weekend is my favorite!

39.  Growing old hasn't been as hard as I thought it would be. 10 years ago, I thought I was the perfect age, 29. Old enough people start to take you seriously, but still young. I'm 39 and I don't feel a day older than I did back then. The difference however comes that I feel more comfortable in my skin. I'm not as worried about what other people think of me. I want to look at each new year as a blessing!

I'm praying year 39 will be as great as the last 38. Here's to another great year of growth, happiness, and growing closer to Christ as I serve Him.

Five Things Friday-September 6

It's Friday! Yay! This week was a short and quick one. I hope you enjoyed an extra day off from your regular schedule.  Let's jump right into five things from me on this Friday.

{one}

Serving at City Union Mission on Labor Day. We took the boys down to City Union Mission and served lunch. It's great to live to bless, and good to help instill that from an early age in our kids. It's important to get outside of the four walls of your home and get your kids serving those in need. It helps them develop compassion and kindness toward others.  I'll be honest a couple of my kids weren't too pleased at the thought of giving up part of their day off school. But, I think they would all tell you that they enjoyed serving and I was proud of each one of them for jumping in serve. If you are looking for a way to serve as a family, give City Union Mission a call!

{two}

A Very Brady Renovation. I could not be more excited for this new HGTV show. HGTV is renovating the Brady house. You know the one, the front of the house they always showed from the outside, but it wasn't really the actually inside. Well, HGTV bought the home and is turning it into the actual Brady house, down to the very last detail. The actors who played the Brady kids are each helping renovate a different room in the house on each episode. I LOVE this concept! I told Chris the other day that I grew up watching all the reruns of this show and could not love it more. I would be surprised if I haven't seen every episode. We decided we need to start watching The Brady Bunch with the boys, it is such a good, clean show. First episode airs Monday, September 9 at 8:00 pm central time.

{three}

Birthday Weekend! My birthday is Sunday! I've always been a birthday person. My birthday falls on a very busy Sunday this year, so it might feel a bit different. None the less, I'm thankful for the blessing of another year of life. I used to not enjoy turning another year older, until I finally realized age is just a number. I feel just as good, if not better, at almost 39 as I did at 29, so just live every day to the fullest. Take good care of yourself, eat well and exercise, and then age really is just a number. There is something great about the mid to upper 30's, you start to feel comfortable in your own skin. A natural confidence begins to exude from you, because you've lived life and have some wisdom. I'm coming at you with open arms 39, it's going to be a great year, I just know it!

{four}

Loaded Bacon Burger Bowl-Paleo Running Momma does it again! Chris and I are on a little Whole 30 reset, no big deal, we eat clean a lot of the time, so it's not a very drastic change. However, over the summer, with vacation, and the boys home, and all the fun summer treats, a few old habits slipped back in. September is the perfect time for a little reset! I've said it before, Paleo Running Momma is one of my go to Whole 30 recipe sources and all my kids ate their entire dinner when I made this meal this week. So, I had to share it with you, find it HERE. Healthy and kid approved! Make it this weekend!

{five} 

Grout Cleaning Solution. I've received feedback that several of you tried the trick I shared a few weeks ago about my dishwasher revelation. I'm so glad that it is working for so many of you! Well, I'm back to share a new cleaning solution I discovered this week. I have some light colored grout in my bathroom. I've tried a few different products to clean the grout and have not had any success. I came across the simplest cleaning recipe for grout the other day, 1 part vinegar to 1 part water. I had nothing to lose so I mixed it up, not really thinking it would work, it seemed too easy 😂. I applied it to the grout, let it soak for a few minutes, and then used a scrub brush, and I was amazed at the finished product. I could actually see the difference as I was scrubbing. It doesn't smell the best while you are cleaning (hello, vinegar), but for clean grout I can take one for the team!

In case you missed it this week:

Lunch Box Ideas for Kids-Part 2

Do you have any life hack or cleaning tips and tricks to share? I would love to hear yours in the comments section. Have a wonderful Friday and enjoy your weekend!