Be Better 52

To start the year off right and keep my motivation going all year I joined the "Be Better 52" challenge

It's really an ingenious idea.  Each participant pays $52 for the year.  Every week a new 'challenge' is given by way of an email.  If you complete the challenge $1 is given to charity.  If you complete the challenge and post about it on social media, the donation doubles. A simple way to 'be better' and be generous!

The first week's challenge was to drink lemon water each morning.  That was easy!

The next week that challenge was to get up 15 minutes earlier than normal and develop a morning routine.  I kind of fudged on this one since I already get up early and I have a set routine that works well for me. I did TRY to go to bed 15 minutes earlier.  A couple of nights I succeeded! 

One of the best parts of my morning routine is walking with these good friends!  In Oregon it is often cold and wet, not damp - WET - but we love the time to talk!  Good for the body and the soul!

This is week #3 and the challenge is to enjoy healthy smoothies!  That is something I have wanted to try so this week I have done it!  Healthy green smoothies!  So far I have enjoyed them.

48 more weeks ahead with fun challenges to improve my physical and mental health and to donate to one of my favorite causes - Kenya Keys.  http://kenyakeys.org

How soon can I travel?

Ok, so I had an appendectomy on August 8 but that didn't stop me from going to Vancouver, British Columbia with this handsome guy

To hear a Loreena McKennitt concert!

Her music is hard to define; sort of new age, Irish with a middle eastern flavor.  Very beautiful!  We totally enjoyed the concert and the whole trip. Perfect hotel, delicious food and Vancouver is a great city!

A short hike took us to this very, very long suspension bridge.  It was so long that there was quite a bit of sway.  I forgot that you use your stomach muscles to keep your balance.  That was the only part of the trip where I was reminded that I did have surgery a few days before.

Interesting 'cliff walk path' that didn't make George too nervous!

I think the first thoughts I had after surgery were "How long until I can travel?"  The doctor did nix the kayaking trip for 2 days after surgery but he said ok for Vancouver. I decided on my own that Education Week would be too much for me.  Today when classes started at BYU, I felt sad. I probably could have gone but I guess I do need to take it semi easy for awhile.  George says that I am back to my normal fast walking so I am on the mend!  

And I am not planning on anymore surgery for a a LONG TIME!!!!!