January Success: 30 days of no alcohol for this 30-something!

- Mel

I cannot wait to kick back and drink a beer with my teammates after practice Thursday — my 30 days without alcohol challenge is complete (yes, that 31st day is a “freebie”). And I earned it!

On tap since 12/28/12: still haven’t been able to drink it.

This month has been nothing short of stressful: tryouts for derby and adjusting to subsequent practice schedule, medical issues and weird doctor appointments, planning and executing a friend’s bridal shower… I can’t tell you how many times I wanted a drink. And, considering that we never drank our bottle of champagne on New Year’s Eve (we didn’t drink at ALL, so technically speaking, I’ve already accomplished 30 days off the sauce), I’ve had to look at that tasty bottle of Rose for THIRTY DAYS. Down the hatch for brunch on Sunday.

The challenge was to get my head in the right place for the beginning of my season. I also need to find alternative ways to deal with my stress. If I had drowned my feelings in vodka then I likely would have been hungover or generally feeling pretty crappy and unmotivated to do HALF of these things. But I’ve had a clear mind and my body feels pretty good. It wasn’t life changing, but it was definitely a test.

More about my 30-days-for-2013 resolutions challenge.
Up next: waking up before 8 am every day in February. Yeah, it’s not 30 days, but we do what we can with the short month (I’m drawing in the 31st from January to make it at least 29)! This is going to be harder than not drinking.

Home Decorating: A kitchen inspired by Pinterest

- Mel

I was so excited to see this Pin of a coffee station that I recreated it for my own. I’m not usually that much of a copycat, but it was just TOO perfect for the empty space in my kitchen.

And the result finally gave me the ideas on how to decorate the rest of the kitchen! MORE WIRE CAGES! {bonus points if you used your Mommy Dearest voice}

The small buffet is from an online store that shall not be named because, well… they sold me a piece of shit. The cabinet was on sale for $160 and ended being REALLY cheaply made and cannot be moved, for fear of falling apart. In the past, I’ve purchased VERY well-built furniture from stores like West Elm for the same price range and those pieces have really held up – I’ll stick to what I know in the future. Thankfully, the boyfriend could reinforce the structure, making it a bit stronger (can you believe they didn’t even include screws that were the proper depth? I suppose you can…). I won’t make the same mistake in purchasing a sideboard for the dining room.

Shelf Unit is from Hobby Lobby (make sure you use the online coupon to save 40% on one item!)
I love you, blogs & coffee print is from etsy {I won from another blogger last year}
We received the Polish soup mugs from the boyfriend’s aunt for Christmas. They were just too beautiful to be hiding in the cupboards!

This set-up has already changed at least 6 times since we’ve put it together (as far as decorating goes). But it’s such a cozy, intimate little space that is helping me love our kitchen. Even if I think the floor still needs to GO.

{From the Vintage Wren – source of some awesome DIY and decorating ideas}

Weekly Therapy: when the boyfriend’s away, the derby will play

- Mel

the week:
practice. practice. practice. repeat weekly. I’m learning to adapt to the late nights of practices and added responsibilities (and soon, travel) that come with the beginning of the derby season. We had tryouts for our incoming meat class on Sunday, which is exciting (I’m a Mentee to two newbies); and hosting out-of-league skaters for a training camp this weekend. I slept surprisingly well for the boyfriend being out of town… likely because I. am. exhausted.

I’m also on 26 days without a drop of alcohol, so I’m all kinds of cranky. (FOUR MORE DAYS to meet my January goal!)

And that’s why Friendly’s makes ice cream.

Oh, and that incident last night with cops responding to an intruder alarm at my neighbor’s house. When I was home overnight alone. o_O

weekend:
It’s the quarterly Gallery Crawl tonight in downtown Pittsburgh! One of my favorite nights to explore the city and new exhibits (yes, even in 20 degree temps and a few inches of snow). New event this year: there’s a pop-up night market and curling session with Yelp and the Pittsburgh Curling Club.

Sunday is BOUT DAY!

52 books in 52 weeks:
I’m falling behind! I’m stuck on this book that is overly repetitive and extremely slow to read… and I should just QUIT already.
8. “I Want it Now! A Memoir of Life on the Set of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory” by Julie Dawn Cole

seven things, seven days:
1. Interviewing two “hot” jewelry designers for a client – so exciting!
2. Refreshed, new hair color. *ahhh*
3. Brunch at Verde is my new fave. We checked it out as part of Pittsburgh Restaurant Week specials.
4. Found TWO different unused gift cards: Sephora and Old Navy (woo-hoo!)
5. Shopped two sports bras, a yoga tank and a BRIGHT track jacket with balance on Old Navy card.
6. Was nominated for league’s rookie award at our banquet a couple weekends ago. I didn’t win, but so proud and honored. I love my leaguemates.
7. Two weeks until California! (Can you believe it’s been over 20 years since I’ve last visited?)

I had an ultrasound. And now I’m depressed.

- Mel

At some point in a woman’s life, she will have an ultrasound. This is a common practice for pregnant women, but also to determine medical reasons why someone cannot conceive. But, as a non-child bearing (or desire to have them) lady, I never imagined that I’d be in that exam room… with a physician-assisted dildo up my birth canal.

Sure, I can make light of it now, given that there’s seemingly NOTHING WRONG WITH ME. But last week, when I (the doctor) was looking for answers. And I had NO idea what I was in for. Thankfully, a friend enlightened me to the words TRANSVAGINAL on my script. It means exactly what you think it means.

I had a series of tests: pelvic, hormonal blood work, pregnancy testing, and aforementioned ultrasound (two ways!) with no real answer. My “problem” is scanty or non-existing menstruation (My period has been irregular since fall 2011; only having one REAL period in August of this past year). Birth control could be to blame… inconclusive (until I decide if I want to “try” going off it to see if it is, in fact, a happy side effect.) I’ve been on some form of pill since I was 17 — this particular brand for almost 4 years — but then I started experiencing severe pain and pressure in my abdomen. Cramping with no bleeding. Really severe mood swings. I was scared… and after the appointment, depressed.

I can’t explain the depression, but was told from several people that it’s normal when anticipating test results. I’ve been in a certain funk and mood that still remains a week later. I’m talking it out with my significant other, which helps to have someone listen to me vent and ramble (oh, I’m sure he appreciates hearing ALL about the random ways my body hates me… not). But I’m still struggling to understand WHY or WHAT I’m feeling.

We don’t talk enough about the difficulties and emotions associated with infertility and menstruation disruption or possible early menopause that all sadly occur to many 30-somethings. WHY DON’T WE?! I’d really appreciate some of your thoughts and feelings in the comments, so we all can commiserate about our experiences and emotions in one place.

My first shower: planning awesomeness for a bride

- Mel

A good friend of mine is getting married in May — a destination wedding in Charlotte that I cannot attend. She asked me to be her Pittsburgh Bridesmaid, however, so that she could have a shower for local friends and family (and in the future, a bachelorette party).

I was tasked with planning my first shower (oh, the stress and time that went into it, which is why I had to step away from regular blogging for a minute), and I think it went really well. Thankfully, I had the help of her mom with location and catering, so that I could concentrate on all the “fun” stuff… and some of the not-so-fun stuff. Like stressing over whether I “forgot” something or whether my friend would like everything and if all the guests were having a good time. Phew.

I planned three games:
The purse hunt (this ended up being such a perfect ice breaker!), via Blue Moon Designs on etsy
Bride Bingo (I made the chalkboard bingo cards and keys — this was a huge task! And, of course, something I left for the last minute)
He Said – She Said, via Sassy Graphics (also on etsy)

And all the fun decorations to follow the wedding colors (gray & yellow), centering around chevron print, chalkboard and Ball jars.

Finding two of the games on etsy was a HUGE timesaver. I had other creative (and labor-intensive) ideas… but realized it was too late to create THREE games from scratch.

My mom made all the cloth napkins, which doubled as place settings for guests and favors (my mom’s etsy shop is Spun Designs — mostly knit, but I’m trying to talk her into making these special order for others). Each guest received a set: one yellow and one gray. The Ball jars were perfect for simple centerpieces (chevron-printed paper straws for all that Southern Sweet Tea!) and for the “wish” containers on the gift container.

I had so much fun “pinning” great ideas and using my creativity to make the theme even bigger. Thankfully, at just the right time of the planning stages, Pinterest allowed private boards.

Have you ever planned a bridal shower? Tell me about it in the comments! And share your links to these shower-hosting posts.

Weekly Therapy: crushing goals… and the stupid flu again.

- Mel

the week:
Completed my first week of no alcohol, which was difficult, considering tryouts nerves! BUT I found out last night that I made the team! WOO! And also means I’M GOING TO CALIFORNIA! More on that later…

This “12 cognitive biases that prevent you from being rational” story is all the more important when getting a pang of flight anxiety again.

My life right now.

weekend:
After three days of minimal sleep (by no means my own fault; I was in bed… but just no sleep happened), I woke up this morning feeling sick. I’m trying to relax and push through, so that I can see Spank! (a parody of 50 Shades of Gray) tonight with a friend. Sober. I’m expecting it to be hilarious, especially given that I’ve never read the book and only the Tumblr making fun of it.

Saturday night, we have our annual derby awards banquet. This event calls for a date with my sequin pants!

For my Pittsburghers: check out Saturday’s Mascot Skate at Schenley Park.

52 books in 52 weeks:
The Perks of Being a Wallflower (#7) – I read this entire book in less than 4 hours (across 2 days). I was bored at first and really didn’t want to go further (you know, stop before I get too attached to the story). But the character development was quick, and I was hooked. But I’m still confused by a few parts — one, especially an integral part of the story that I seemed to miss (I don’t want to spoiler!)… so I probably need to re-read it. On sale for $3.99 for Kindle at Amazon!

seven things, seven days:
1. Received all my transfer info from another school choice. This admission process requires a personal essay. And my ACT test results (from 18 years ago). Yikes.
2. I think we might have finally found an antique black slate mantel for the living room fireplace (via Craigslist)! Going to look at it this weekend. Cross your fingers!
3. This weekend I’ll be crafting some decorations for my friends bridal shower next weekend. I can’t wait to see my ideas all pulled together.
4. Check this out: HomeEC e-courses! I’m definitely signing up for a refresher “learn to sew” program. Remember those days when HomeEC was a required class in high school?! Just me then?
5. I’m totally in Decorating Mode. And super psyched to see HomeGoods boards on Pinterest.
6. Finding a “behind-the-neck” bra for a sleeveless, high-neck shirt is impossible. Bra shopping is my biggest nightmare, but there has to be SOMETHING. The shirt is white, I cannot go braless… unless I find a tank that’s cut the same way.
7. Author Hugo Schwyzer says empathy can be learned. Thoughts?

Photo credit: HelloFresh via Tumblr

Every 30-something needs… some resolutions.

- Mel

I hate the word “resolutions” just as much as the next 30-something (I mean, it’s like settings up for failure, right?), but I do set some goals for myself for the year. We need goals — something to live for, strive for and accomplish. This is what makes our life worth a damn: purpose.

Resolutions. Or at least some intentions.
To be a better person (in more ways than one).
To be healthier.
More motivated. More generous.

The following for 2013:
Financial: Pay off my credit card debt before starting school next Fall. Pay off old school debt to get my transcripts released.
Education: Apply to an additional college (not one I was originally anticipating attending, but would be proud to “get in”.) Finish all application and registration requirements. GO BACK TO SCHOOL! (yay!)
Diet & Exercise: Make A-level travel team. Train for my relay leg in the marathon. Get stronger. Lift more. Find easy, healthy meals that I can make on my own.
Work: Better business tracking: time spent on projects, job app-to-hire percentage, all business expenses. Continue to look for work that is new and challenging. Pitch more.
Relaxation: Shut down the phone and read once per day. If I’m on my phone every day, I can have my nose in a book everyday. Even if it’s just for 20 minutes.
Home: Finish house projects. Complete paint remodel of the first level. Decorate my master bathroom.
Love: Love and support the boyfriend in all aspects of his life (including his high-stress job and travel). Stop being so bitchy and expecting to suddenly live with a mind reader (ie: tell him what’s on my mind instead of being defensive upfront). More date nights.
Friendships: Send one handwritten letter to a long-distance friend or family per month. Make the time to visit and reconnect with long-time friends in Ohio. Connect and hang out more with my team/leaguemates.
Do Good: Continue to volunteer and donate time and money to my favorite charities and causes. Be emotionally available for friends and family in need.

But then I took this whole Resolutions thing one step further. I made a list of promises for each month of the new year. Because I’m mostly crazy, but also because I really like to challenge myself. Each directly relates to my resolutions — and are tied bad habits that I’d like to break or motivation that I’d like to gain.

A Year of Promises
January: 30 days of no alcohol.
February: 30 days of WAKING UP BEFORE 8am. (I’m going on vacation this month; will be interesting)
March: 30 days of no sweets
April: 30 days of “something new”
May: 30 days of yoga
June: 30 days spending freeze
July: 30 days of NO PANTS (dresses and skirts only; save for working out)
August: 30 days of volunteering
September: 30 days without social media (this is when I intend to return to school; will be taking a month-long hiatus from both social media and blogging because I WILL NEED IT)
October: 30 days of dates!
November: 30 days of blog posts
December: 30 days of relaxing (sit back and listen to Christmas music; you’ll need it!)
*if there are 31 days in a month, consider Day 31 a “freebie”; 28 days, an “easy” goal, which… not really.

More: 5 Questions You Need to Ask Before Making Your New Year Resolutions {from Psych Central}
10-step Guide for Making Your New Year Resolutions {from PsyBlog}

Image credit: FrameAngel

Teeccino: drinks for my non-caffeinated 30-somethings!

- Mel

I was so excited to get a package on a Sunday afternoon (who knew the USPS delivered on Sundays?!), to look inside to find a box FULL of Teeccino products (and TeeChia, which I haven’t yet tried). While I don’t have a resolution to stop drinking caffeine, I do have reasons for not drinking it throughout the day. That said, because I AM an insomniac — having caffeine in the afternoon is a big no-no — this lends itself to an afternoon slump like no other. I don’t always have the luxury of napping either.

Teeccino is a non-caffeine herbal coffee, perfect for those of you looking to taper off regular coffee or, like me, seeking a mid-afternoon “pick me up.” Mocha and Vanilla Nut are my favorites. Their coffee alternative products contains no caffeine, no preservatives or GMOs or synthetic additives. I prefer the single-serve tee-bags, but Teeccino also makes an all-purpose grind (brews just like coffee).

Why Teeccino products are good for 30-somethings:

  • helps you taper off caffeine
  • prevents insomnia effects that are directly related to drinking too much caffeine
  • no more upset digestion from acidic coffee
  • none of those harmful caffeine effects on fertility and/or pregnant or nursing mothers
  • bye-bye anxiety/stress/high blood pressure/migraines/insomnia/heartburn (oh, the time of your life when your body basically rejects all things you love)
  • extra treat for dessert-loving coffee drinkers

More about Teeccino:
Teeccino has a number of health benefits, including being naturally caffeine free, non-acidic, heart-healthy and good for digestive health. Teeccino provides a natural energy boost, making the non-caf drink perfect for an afternoon pick-up or after-dinner dessert beverage. Also good for morning-only coffee drinkers or people wanting to reduce/eliminate caffeine as part of their daily habits.

Have you heard or tried Teeccino products? Which is your favorite?

Disclaimer: I received complimentary products from Teecino, courtesy of Naturally Savvy, to sample FREE with no compensation in exchange for trying or review. All thoughts and opinions contained herein are my own. See more information on my disclosure page.

Weekly Therapy: the travels and tribulations of a 30-something

- Mel

the week:
Driving. Snowstorms. Missing family plans. Paying an extra night for hotel because it was booked for December 25 and not December 26. (seriously). Hangovers.

HANGOVERS.

Just another holiday trip back to Ohio. While we were “snowed in” during our stay at the lovely Renaissance Hotel in Cleveland, we checked out the new casino, and ate and drank our way down East 4th Street (a must-visit street on any visit to the Midwestern city).

By the time we arrived back home, I was tired and cranky and… sick. Ugh. So sick. Don’t mind me, I’ll just be that Old Lady recovering in her bed on New Year’s Eve.

weekend:
Sunday, Browns vs. Steelers at Heinz Field!

52 books in 52 weeks:
6. Cleveland is Your Best Friend: 67 Things I Miss About Home (gifted from the boyfriend on Christmas). Finished it in one sitting.

seven things, seven days:
1. Hot yoga on christmas eve — what a way to start the week!
2. AND a new yoga mat and bag to continue my practice in style.
3. Yes, I got my watch. (I know!!!)
4. 30-day No Alcohol rule in effect for January (this is not a resolution, but a “cleanse” if you will).
5. Derby practices start again next week!
6. So happy to connect with TWO new clients this week for my freelance business!
7. In light of the upcoming holiday, Making Habits/Breaking Habits: How to Make Changes That Stick (adding to my read list!)

Happy New Year, 30-somethings!