You Can't Reread a Phone Call.

When's the last time you put a stamp on something that was not a bill?

When's the last time you received a letter in the mail that wasn't a bill?

I have always been fascinated with letter writing and handwritten notes. I attribute this to my late grandmother who no matter what sent a handwritten card or letter for every holiday or occasion. She had the most ornate, beautiful handwriting.When I was younger, every letter I received I would sit and practice tracing the letters hoping my writing would be as gorgeous one day. I remember thinking about how I would never receive another handwritten card from her, and it really broke my heart.

That same year after she passed, I headed to the mail box to grab what I thought would be sales papers and mostly bills. The corner of a mauve colored envelop caught my eye, and I was excited to receive a card in the mail. While standing at the mailbox, I flipped it over to see who was the sender. That same ornate handwriting I had tried to perfect for so long was beautifully spread across the front of the envelope. I dropped to my knees an cried tears of loss but also joy. To this day, I have this card framed and in my office to admire. 

I truly believe we have lost the true value and art of letter writing. There are so few people who actually take the time to practice such an art. When did "Thnx" become more preferred than "Sincerely Yours"? I've made it a personal mission to recapture the art of letter writing and share the joy with those closest in my life. I keep a huge box of blank cards an thank you notes to send whenever needed.

But why you ask? Think about it.
Someone took the time to sit down and put a pen to paper expressing their personal thoughts to you. It's incredibly personal. It is probably one of the most inexpensive ways to brighten someone's day ($0.49!) They can be reread and kept forever.

My goal this year is to send as many handwritten cards and notes as I can! So far, I am 2 for 2 with birthdays on my calendar! Want to be added to my handwritten mail list?! Know someone who would enjoy a handwritten note? Please contact me for details!

I challenge you to take the time and send a handwritten letter to just one person. I promise the joy and return is worth the $0.49!

The Beginning with No End

I am not one to post insanely personal things, but for some reason, I just have an inkling to share this story. Weight loss and body image are something I have struggled with in my adulthood. Weird, right? These are things you usually face in your teen years, but.. not me. Nineteen and honestly feeling quite crappy.

I also don't post about my journey usually because I get accused of using my health condition as a crutch. In all actuality, I KNOW it's not to blame. Poor food decisions and lack of exercise are the culprit.

Now, this post is about weight loss and 21 Day Fix. If you've not heard of it... check it out. It's literally my favorite program, EVER! That topic is a whole different discussion. I just finished cycle two, and I dropped 10.8 pounds and a total of 15.25 inches. I think it is important to remember why you started and your end goal. I don't have a certain weight or a dress I want to fit into, but simply, to be healthier. When I go to the doctor I don't want to be scolded (as much).

The doctor you ask... PCOS and endometriosis. I'm also on a blood pressure pill, which I hate!! The last doctor visit I was diagnosed prediabetic. Most of these can be alleviated with simple weight loss and exercise. My goal is to do this for myself. To better myself. To not be dependent upon medicines to help me function. My follow-up appointment is in February, so I am curious to see what the doctor will say about my progress.

My fuel to keep going? Let me clarify this blog is not to out the person who said these things, but to let you know what lingers in my head when I think about my weight and body.

I met my husband about 7ish years ago. We both had just got out of some pretty ugly relationships. I just knew Joe was the one. I gained weight like crazy- totally blaming it on being happy. Long story short, his ex was not happy. (I mean I could totally see why. Joe is awesome!)

"Joe doesn't like fat girls." Uhhh what. For the first time in my life, I was called fat. Can I tell you how damaging that is? It's bad. I will never forget these words for the rest of my life.

Fast forward a few years, I still remember that comment, and I remember how I felt. Now... it's a little more fuel to reach my goals. I actually smile and shake my head when I think about it. I know I am not in this to be a swimsit model. I am doing this for me. For my family. Most of all, for my health.

I recommend you jump on my band wagon as well. I promise you won't regret it, and I will be cheering you on the whole way!