WEEKLY BLOG: CALM AND STILLNESS

The last two weeks my focus and intention has been calm and stillness. I knew and felt like there was so much going on in the world that I didn’t want it to suck me in. After a busy ending of January it was time for me to pause. Taking an occasional pause is very important.

Sunday: Was a reset day for me. I didn’t want to have the day filled with ”stuff” to do. My intentions were to let the day come naturally. I woke up by asking ”God what is it you want me to do today?” And I let Him guide me. It turned out to be a very chilled day. We enjoyed breakfast and coffee at our favorite coffee shop and lounged the rest of the day. One of our rule of thumbs, is to use Sundays as a mental health rest day. We know the importance of keeping a clear mind before our routine busy week with a family of five.

Monday: It’s always busy and back to business. Really had to drag myself to the office because we have been very slow and I would prefer to work from home and get more things done. I always have to quickly remind myself how fortunate and blessed I am to be able to manage my own schedule. Because my ultimate goal is to work for myself full time , any moment I may feel I can be working towards that gets me frustrated when I can’t. Monday evenings are always chill and light because we’re settling into our routine.

Tuesday: Was very busy as I finish up a contract and submit more proposals. Had a learning experience on what to look for when submitting proposals. This freelancer journey is teaching me a lot about business and people in a different way than corporate America. But I’m enjoying it. I had to finish things up at the office because we are expecting a snow storm and everything is going to shut down. After work I made sure we had everything we needed to be snowed in for a couple of days. Of course, my anxiety is up because no matter how much snow and ice we get, my husband has to go to work.

Wednesday: As expected we are snowed in, there’s no school, and my office is closed. I’m happy because I get to spend the day at home, with my kids, and have a mental break. WEEKLY BLOG: BALANCING EVERYDAY LIFE I enjoy waking up, still early, working on the things that make me happy, cooking breakfast, and of course baking a cake. I was able to maintain my midweek clean, relax, and make it a fun successful snow day. While still having my moments of calm and stillness.

Thursday: Another snow day. You better believe I’m loving it. I took advantage of these last two days by setting goals and intentions on how I plan to eventually be able to work for myself full time. Still loving being a mom, cooking, baking, and making sure we soak up every moment we have together. My kids usually love going to school being with their friends, but to my surprise, they are loving the snow days. Even as a mom, I am learning from my kids about life.

Friday: We weren’t sure, but they cancelled school again. I decided to stay home with the kids and work from home. Later on in the afternoon, we decided it was time to go out and play in the snow, shovel ourselves out, and get some fresh air. Although it was still brutally cold, we had fun. Finally the snow has stopped and everyone was ready to get out and breathe some fresh air. In the evening, we enjoyed the beginning event of the Winter Olympics. Just as the Summer Olympics, we love to hear the inspiring stories about the athletes and attempt to learn something from them.

Saturday: Was a much better day. The temps are up and the sun is shining bright. So that helps much of the snow and ice to melt. The kids were having cabin fever. Therefore we decided to go have lunch at Panera. It was a great, quiet, calm afternoon lunch. My husband and I were absolutely excited because the kids chose Panera. The rest of the day and evening enjoying each other, watching the Winter Olympics, and doing nothing. My husband and I use to always think on the weekends we had to go go go. We are more happy binging watching an old tv show from our childhood and drinking coffee.

When I was younger I wish the importance of peace, calm, and stillness was highlighted. Yeah, they tell you to rest, but at the time I was growing up, it was all about grinding and working yourself to exhaustion. If you work yourself into exhaustion, no one is going to benefit from you being in the hospital or having a nervous breakdown. Part of self care is finding that balance of work and stillness.

Be well on your journey.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

WEEKLY BLOG: RECIPES, REST,& ROUTINE

Just like everyone else I had plans to get back into routine and start the new year off ”right.” So I thought I’d start doing a weekly blog roundup to track my progress to hold myself accountable. One of the things I wanted to begin doing is expressing or verbalizing the positive. After a conversation this week, I wanted to challenge myself.

If we think about it, it is easier to point out what we don’t like about ourselves. But if someone asked you what are three things you like about yourself, you’d have to think. So instead of saying what’s bad for mental health lets talk about and do what’s best for mental health.

Starting the week off Sunday into Monday I was under the weather, really bad. No I don’t have C****. But my throat was raspy and I began to lose my voice. Thank God I was off on Monday to recoup. So I began drinking tea and kind of relaxing. I knew I’d be able to relax because the kids started school back Monday.

On Sunday I did my weekly weekend routine SELF CARE HABITS: 6 WEEKEND HABITS FOR A GOOD WEEK and cleanup. Also I began working out again, because over the holiday I didn’t get to workout as much. In my mind, I was thinking I could workout and sweat this mucus out.

On to Monday, I took the kids to school and literally laid down until it was time to pick them up. I had all these plans on what I wanted to get done but my throat and sinuses had other plans. It ended up being a good thing because I laid down the entire time. Normally I would be up cleaning and working from home on my own projects. But I’m proud of myself for doing nothing.

Tuesday I made plans to perfect my baked sweet potatoes and mashed sweet potatoes. I accomplished my goal. They turned out really well. I was still feeling under the weather but pushing through. Had a really good day at the office after being off a couple of days.

Wednesday I did my midweek cleanup. As a family of 5, laundry, dishes, and clutter happens fast with everyone going to school and work everyday. I’m still a little hoarse and coughing but nothing to severe. All this time I haven’t had any other symptoms. The working out hard and sweating seems to help greatly. Also accomplished some goals on some other work I’ve been trying to do.

On to Thursday I had to refresh my manicure for some reason my polish began to chip. Usually when I do my manicure on Sunday it will last for about 10 days. I took another day of rest. After working out for several days I like to give my body a break. Also going everyday it’s good to just sit and be. I made a pasta dish that didn’t take long and relaxed the rest of the evening.

The weekend finally arrived and Friday was much better for me. I felt much better but not quite 100% yet. My work week wrapped up quietly by surprise. After the holiday season and being off, I was expecting a busy week. But it turned out to be the complete opposite. I really don’t have much plans for the rest of the weekend. Rest and relaxing will be the priority.

Saturday was a bitterly cold day. We all slept in as there wasn’t much going on. I had a couple of errands to run but nothing too major. I’m not quite a 100% but close to it. Still have a little congestion but its taking its course. My husband and I didn’t get to do our weekly date night because he had to handle some business for work. I don’t know maybe we’ll do it tomorrow. Either way I am happy with this week.

**My goals were to begin taking breaks. I have so much I want to do that any free time I get, I feel like I have to be doing something. I’m proud of myself for doing that.

**Also at the first of the year I made a decision to give my hair a break from heat styling. So I’ve been wearing my curls and been loving it again. I want to take this break and focus on health instead of aesthetic. My hair isn’t damaged, right now it’s the best thing to do for my lifestyle. I’m proud of myself for doing that.

**Lastly I love my manicure. I have perfected it to the point some think I go to the salon. It’s a great time for me to do something for me and have time to myself.

P.S. Another moment I’m proud of is I had a very rude and demanding client that took up an hour of my time and not once did I let them change my mood.

What are three things you did great this week? What are three things that made you proud of yourself this week?

Be well on your journey.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

HOLIDAY 2021 MOTIVATION: TAKE A MOMENT FOR YOURSELF

It’s the week of Christmas and everyone is running around frantic. This is a fun, exciting, and emotional week leading up to the big day. However, you, I, and everyone else must take a moment for ourselves. Don’t get so overwhelmed with what’s going on that you forget to breathe, look at yourself in the mirror, and just be. HOLIDAY 2021: 3 SIMPLE SELF CARE TIPS

Even if this moment is only five minutes. Take it with pleasure. A long bath or shower is always a good way to recoup and be in the moment. If going out window shopping is something you can do for yourself then do that. Go to your local coffee shop, and have a moment to think or not think about anything at all. A good way to be uninterrupted, is to go in the bathroom and close the door. People may thing you’re doing number 2, 🤷🏾‍♀️ but that’s ok. Thats the point.

Take a moment and call a friend to see how they are holding up during this time. We never know what people are going through. Sometimes helping others and being an ear for others, helps us as well. You get through things together.

Worry about what you can control and leave rest. Don’t stress yourself over anything. No matter what happens you can have a great holiday if you choose to. Furthermore, it will all work out how it suppose to.

Either way you are suppose to enjoy yourself as well. Yes, we are supposed to give and make others feel special, but you have permission to make yourself feel good as well. As you prepare to enjoy your holiday don’t forget to take a moment for yourself. You deserve it. You have the right to. Don’t let this holiday go by without you enjoying yourself.

Be Well!!!!!

Happy Holidays!!!!!! Merry Christmas!!!!!!

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

HEALTHY LIFESTYLE: 5 SIMPLE AND QUICK BREAKFAST IDEAS

The one thing I know as I’ve grown is that I can’t skip breakfast. My body tells me, you need to eat. Here are some simple and quick breakfast ideas I alternate to ensure I start my day off right.

Disclaimer: I am not a nutritionist, scientist, or doctor. I simply do what my body tells me to do. Seek professional advice from a professional if you are having any health or diet issues.

2 Slices of Turkey Bacon and 2 Fried Eggs
Simply place two pieces of bacon on baking sheet and place in the oven. I usually cook the bacon for about 10-15 minutes to get them a little crispy. While the bacon is cooking in the oven, I fry my eggs. To do so I spray a little non stick spray, crack the eggs in the pan, and sprinkle a little Miss Dash Salt Free Seasoning. Cook on each side for about 3-4 minutes. Usually the bacon and eggs are done around the same time.
**Sometimes I would add a little shredded cheese on top of the eggs when I’m finish.
2 Fried Eggs
Sometimes I don’t want any bacon. So I’ll fry me two eggs and top it with cheese and bacon bits. Either way I’m getting a quick breakfast that’s healthy and filled with protein.
**When I’m feeling fancy, I’ll spread avocado on top of the eggs. Then add the shredded cheese, bacon bits, and a little pico de gallo.
Bowl of Protein Oatmeal
I always keep a box of Quaker Protein Cranberry Almond oatmeal handy. One packet is 10g of protein. Depending on preference and time I mix it with hot water or sugar free almond milk. To add flavor I’ll mix in some fruit. Sliced apples, strawberries, or blueberries most of the time. This packet of oatmeal always keeps me full until lunch time.
Breakfast Smoothie.
If I’m really in a rush, I’ll make me a quick smoothie. Usually a hand full of spinach or 1 cup, blended with mixed frozen fruit, banana, 1 scoop of vanilla protiein powder, and a liquid of my choice. Sometimes I use coconut water or sugar free vanilla almond milk. I take this smoothie with me out the door and literally sip on it for hours at my desk. This keeps me full and at the same time getting in some good vitamins.
**A great substitue I use for added thickness is an avocado.
Two Good Healthy Snack. HEALTHY SNACK WITH “TWO GOOD”
Two good yogurt with a drizzle of honey and dried cranberries takes 2 minutes to prepare. You can have a protein filled quick breakfast in less than 5 minutes. Or, of course a full healthy snack with two good. HEALTHY SNACK WITH “TWO GOOD”

The above is just a couple of realistic breakfast ideas that are quick and simple to get your day started. With each option I always have my DIY NON DAIRY ICED COFFEE. I like to keep my breakfast light, protein filled, and quick. Again I’m not a specialist. I only specialize in me.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

3 NON FOOD REASONS YOUR DIET ISN’T WORKING

Trying to lose weight and going on a diet is probably one of the biggest challenges many of us face. It seems like we’re on a roller coaster. We’ve all probably tried every diet and exercise program there is. But truth be told, the reasons our diet and weight lost goals doesn’t stick is because of non food reasons.

How many times have we set out on January 1 to get in shape and we don’t even make it a month. We would even spend money on workout clothes, shoes, and even gym memberships. After that, in our minds, or some, we think the weight is going to start shedding off.

However, there are some non food related points that we must tackle before thinking about “getting into shape.” Here are a couple of non food reasons why your diet and exercise goals aren’t sustainable.

YOUR MENTAL APPROACH IS MISGUIDED

First, we go in thinking about dieting. That instantly put negative thoughts into our subconscious. We have to give up all the foods we enjoy. Our life is going to be dreadful while on a diet. Most often the “date” to start is pushed back many times because you want to enjoy certain holidays or meals. On the other hand, because we’re are saying “diet” it sounds as if it’s temporary. When you lose the 30lbs you are done and it supposed to magically stay off.

In actuality, we should prepare our mental for a lifestyle change. This is the most important non food reason to focus on. We must get clear about why we are wanting or needing to lose some weight. Then be completely honest as to how we got to where we are. After that, we can make a plan on how to get better going forward. With understanding the how, what, and why’s, we know what not to do to get back to this point. We then, can create a lifestyle that fits around our daily schedule.
LACK OF PREPARATION

The next non food reason our diet doesn’t workout, is because we haven’t properly prepared. When I say prepare, I mean looking at your schedule and strategically planning out your meals. Also knowing when you are going to workout and on what days. Before we begin we must know what our weaknesses are and what we have good will power in. Self Care Mental Health Tips

From there, knowing what you’re going to eat before and after workouts is essential. Having a time of when you’re going to workout is also a must. Because you need to be able to have time to let your food settle and digest a bit before working out. Looking at your schedule daily or weekly will give you a good indication. For example, if I know my son has a meet on Thursday, then that will be my day off. However, I would plan to workout days prior. Next, I spend sometime on the weekend making sure I have what I need for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Also any ingredients needed for smoothies. Once again, it has to become a lifestyle and a part of who you are.
LISTENING TO EVERYONE ELSE

Lastly, the non food reason we don’t reach our goals is because we are listening and doing what everyone else is doing or think we should be doing. What works for your friend or coworker might not work for your body. Remember your body, lifestyle, schedule, habits, and goals are different. We can listen to get inspiration. Along with listening to our friends, believing that some of these gimmicks and fad diets will get us to our goal in a week. If they do, its very unhealthy. Maintaining and sustaining your diet and weight loss goals is specific to you.

Along the way you may have to add or delete something from your diet. The workouts you used to be able to do, you no longer can do. Also switching up workouts to shock your body to have continuous results is something you’ll have to tweak.

Focusing on the non food aspects of dieting and losing weight will help you better sustain whatever goals you’re trying to achieve. Gaining as much knowledge and education as possible will allow you to make the best informed decision for yourself. Take things slow, listen to your body, and of course seek professional assistance if necessary.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

Create Plans, Systems, and Habits For The New Year

It’s that time of year where people are talking about their new year’s resolutions. Instead of resolutions create plans, systems, and habits for the new year. I’ve never like this idea or really been able to answer the question “what’s your New Years resolution?”

Instead of a New Years resolution I think its more important and/or effective to create a lifestyle with systems and daily habits. Have a plan for your life in year. Break that plan down into half year goals, seasonal or quarterly goals, and then monthly goals. If needed you can even break it down into weekly goals until it has become habit. Setting goals, making plans, and listing somethings you’d like to accomplish in a year is more realistic and obtainable.

So often when we set resolutions they barely last a month or even a week sometimes. That’s because it hasn’t been thoroughly thought out, made with intention, and done at the spare of the moment.

Before creating a system or change you must ask yourself what is my end goal here? How long will it take me to reach my end game? What do I need in the process? If I have to make a detour what is my course of action to get back on track? What do I need to put into place to begin? What are the steps of this goal?

To make anything sustainable we have to be patient, persistent, and consistent. Yes there will be road blocks but we will overcome them. The systems set by our daily habits will allow us to get back into to gear when something happens. Life is going to continue but its how we push through that makes us strong.When we push through obstacles that gives us the confidence and motivation to continue on with our goals. Now we won’t give up or lose sight on what we sought out to achieve.

When you have an outline of your goal you’re able to track progress. You can adjust the goal if necessary. Increase or decrease your course of action, add or delete some steps in the process, and have a visual.

For example, if you have a weight loss goal, make a plan to lose 5lbs in the first month or two. Because you have a goal you know you have to eat a balanced diet and exercise to achieve that goal. Look at your work week, schedule of things to do with the kids or family in the week, and figure when it will be best to work out for at least 30 minutes 4 times a week. Anyone can say “I want to get fit” but what does that mean without a plan and goals behind it.

Along with setting goals and creating an action plan, having a system in place will assist you in achieving the goals you want. Having systems in place with daily habits that are pushing you toward your goal allows you to remain present in the moment. The systems of daily habits become the lifestyle change you are striving for. You can’t have one without the other. Create plans, systems, and habits to set you up for success this year.

Back to the weight loss example, you will need a system of when and how often I need to go to the grocery store to ensure I have what I need before, during, and after workout. Along with what will my daily meals and snacks look like. Waking up to making sure you don’t skip breakfast is a great daily habit to begin with. What am I going to have for lunch, what is my snack for the day, or what is the plan for dinner.

No matter what it is, you want to accomplish, create a plan for it. Vacation, remodeling the home, purchasing a new car, or whatever make an intentional plan. I know it may seem like a lot or it can be overwhelming in the beginning but once it becomes habit and who you are it won’t phase you one bit. Living the life you envisioned, deserve, and sought for is the best reward.

We have to make it a lifestyle and part of who we are. It has to be about us, for us, and by us otherwise it’s just empty words of hopes of what we’d like to do and accomplish.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

Things To Do To Lift Your Spirits This Week

Yes, Christmas 🎄 is Friday and not everyone is happy and in a joyful mood. So my goal is to get as many people inspired as possible. Here are a couple things you can do this week to lift your spirits.

First, my favorite thing to do is drive around in the evening and view the amazing lighting and decorations people have done to their homes. Nothing makes you smile more than seeing the creativity that our neighbors have to make their home bright with cheer.

Just seeing all the lights and decorations lifts the heaviness, makes you smile, and feel good. Even something as simple as people decorating their homes to make others feel good is enough to be grateful for.

Next, along with driving around to view lights and decor, watch some holiday movies that makes you laugh. One of my favorite holiday movies is Home Alone. Because of the kind of year we’re having, there has been an endless amount of movies and marathons on television.

Focus on you for a day. Take a long bath or shower. Do your hair. Do your makeup. Get all dolled up and take selfies in your favorite Christmas pajamas. So when you send out that mass text on Christmas morning, you can personalize it.

Expect to have a great week and holiday. Stop thinking about what you didn’t get to do this holiday season, the presents you couldn’t afford, and what you don’t have. “Things” aren’t important. It’s the intangibles that mean more. Be grateful to be alive to see another Christmas and to just be around loved ones.

Clean your home and make room for new energy, new vibes, and new beginnings. Donate some old stuff you haven’t used in a while. Many of us are off work and have kids on break to help. This makes for great family time while getting things done.

Prepare a meal or dish for family or friends to enjoy. That is a gift in itself.
Volunteer or help someone who is less fortunate than you.

Make ornaments and give them away to your most precious loved ones.

There are so many things you can do this week as we approach Christmas Day to boost your spirits and others in the process. Focus on the good, choose happiness, and stay positive.

Merry Christmas 🎁🎄 Everyone!!!!!!

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

10 Things I’m Thankful For In 2020

-Waking up to the sun shining in my window
-The fact that I get to say I have a job and get to go to work
-After falling ill, my health is in good condition
-We have been without lack of food and water
-I have family and friends that love me
-I get to enjoy going for a walk, blogging, listening to music, and playing in makeup
-Basic necessities; home, car, insurance, working arms and legs, fingers and toes
-Those veggie fajitas I had for dinner
-Kindness of the stranger who paid for our dinner at Applebees and then McDonalds
-Access to the Internet

This year has been EXTRA. As we approach the holiday season, the best time of the year, it is a constant reminder that we’re still in the year of 2020. How we used to gather and celebrate some of us aren’t able to.

Between working from, to the kids doing virtual learning, and the stress of worrying about my husband whose an essential worker its been trying. But I must say we have been BLESSED beyond measure this year.

As I think back when this all started in February and March, we were scared, confused, and trying to process it. For me I have a 14 year old who’s on the spectum and I couldn’t imagine how I was going to get him through virtual learning along with two other children and working from home. But of course with the GRACE of God we did, and everything worked out just fine.

Just me having the ability to work from home was a blessing. But then at the end of March we experienced a terrible hail storm that totaled both of our vehicles. We were on lockdown for real after that. We couldn’t do anything because at the time appraisers weren’t coming out and body shops were closed. I remember going outside everyday looking at my vehicles sweeping up glass in the driveway.

When it happened my husband and I made the decision we weren’t going to panic, stress, or make any spur of the moment decisions. We literally looked at each other and said “well I guess God said we need to sit at home”. We did and enjoyed every minute of it. If this was even a year ago, I would have panicked and stressed myself out so much. But there were circumstances that were out of my control and I just had to let go.

We’ve all been stressed this year, up and down, and waiting on a moment to just breathe a sigh of relief. But even in the midst, there is so much to be thankful and grateful for. I challenge you to look around and point out the countless things you’re grateful for.

It doesn’t have to be huge. It can be that gallon of milk in the fridge, the fact you got to watch your favorite tv show, or you got to clean the garage.

Use this time to express and share gratitude. Instead of worrying about what it used to be, look at how good it is now.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

Handle Your Business…Go To The Doctor

How does going to the doctor relate to self care? Well it has everything to do with self care.

Knowledge is power. Getting regular checkups and examinations allows us to detect any early signs of disease or infections. We’ll know if we are borderline and need to watch something more closely. With regular visits to the doctor we learn important information on how and why our bodies are changing and reacting in a certain manner.

The earlier we know about a diagnosis the better equipped we are with options of treatments and cures. The more options available the better we’ll be able to maintain a good bill of health.

Even though its a pain and we really don’t like going to the doctor it gives us a peace of mind and a sense of relief. Therefore providing less stress on our mental health.

Just because we feel fine or doesn’t see any physical signs of worry, doens’t mean we don’t need to see a physician. Routine blood work and examinations are needed to let us know what’s going on with risks we may not be aware of.

Keeping regular doctor and dentist appointments are an act of self care and self love. You are showing interest in your physical health and investing in prolonging your life. It shows we want to be here to live a fulfilling, healthy, and productive life. In result increasing our mind, spirits, and confidence.

Exercising preventative care saves us money, time, and pain. Giving us the freedom to use those resources in other areas of our life. Handle Your Business…Get Your Finances Together

You’re worth it. Invest in your physical health to help promote your mental and emotional health.

When you’re healthy you’re wealthy.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.

Self Care: Hobbies and Activities

We all have that one thing that makes us smile, calms us when we are angry, and won’t get tired doing. It could be collecting something, sewing or knitting, or having a hobby like drawing or gardening.

Well for me my “thing” is makeup. I can sit and watch video after video on makeup tutorials. I can wonder the aisles of the store for hours examining the shade range, packaging, scent, names of products, and anything in between.

For me though it isn’t about the makeup itself, it’s about the action of purchasing it, taking it home, and trying it out in many different ways to see how I look. The look or outcome of the makeup is always beautiful but thats when I lose my enjoyment. I enjoy the application process of it. It’s something about me blending foundation, applying mascara, and putting on lipstick that makes me feel good. The thought that I’m taking the time to enhance my beauty or see how different I would look with certain products is liberating, fulfilling, and makes me smile on the inside.

What’s your thing? Don’t ever be afraid to tell someone what your pass time is. That is what makes you unique. That is your gift. Something you are great at, constantly find ways to get better , educate yourself on, and never get tired doing that is you.

Most of the time we don’t realize our “thing” is what we need to tap into to fulfill ourselves.

RosalynLynn

Be you so you can be free.