This past Saturday I turned 40, it passed quietly since I don’t get into celebrations that much. I love doing things for others though. I would have escaped the bulk of well-wishes if I weren’t a member of Facebook, family, friends (past and present) and even two lovely ladies from the blogging community Megan and Kaozz popped by my page to wish me a Happy Birthday, thanks you two! It was nice receiving from people I’ve met throughout the years. A few days later, I was finally able to respond to the individual notes left on my page. In a few instances, the contact spurred an additional email or phone call to catch up with one another.
With friends like these…
My oldest friend, naturally gave me a supportive comment. Hey old bag, it’s all downhill from here. Ahh, the lady has jokes! I did point out to her that she’s an older bag than I, since she’s older than I by a few months. We haven’t seen each other in a while, but we’re planning to meet up within the next few months to hang out, reconnect, and move forward with our friendship.
Renewing my membership
Initially, I was going to purchase an iPad for my birthday instead I renewed my gym membership by an additional three years. My membership was coming up for renewal soon. Since my daughter has gone back to school, my workouts begin within hours after I drop her off in the morning. Initially, I’d make the mistake of coming home and completing a few client projects before beginning my workout. Of course, there were many times I didn’t get into the gym since I became wrapped up in my projects so I’d work out at home. Monday, I decided to do something different and go directly to the gym, after dropping her off at school. I get an amazing workout at home, but as a business owner who works at home I do enjoy getting out of the house too.
Just do It!
Physically going to the gym turns the “I need to get out of the house and do something!” into a reality. If you’ve worked from home, you might have had that feeling a few times also. My initial concern was establishing a set gym time might throw me off with my work, and although it’s still too early I am happy to say that I am able to complete my assignments even with two hours knocked out of my morning schedule. I’ve always worked better after a morning workout. As I’ve mentioned before, I’ve been physically active since I was a child. Making smart food choices, feeding my emotions with things that are nurturing, and staying physically healthy by incorporating exercise into my daily lifestyle had kept me fairly sane even when I’ve encountered major obstacles within my life.
It’s ok to do things for yourself…
This time of year is extremely hectic, however, I do realize that I still have to deal with the busy aspects of my life. It’s not going away, so I have to handle whatever challenges I might face. I’m doing that. Part of that means taking time for myself too. At times, I feel guilty doing things for me. I tend to put others first, and myself last. However, I realize I need to put myself in the equation too. Even though I work out at home, scheduling workout time at the gym (even though minor) is an excellent way to take care of me.
Caron Wheeler: Wonder
Good on you for treating yourself Opal. Glad you did what you wanted on your special day. I remember turning 40, a long time ago and I received lots of bouquets of flowers. I love flowers so that was a lovely surprise when they all kept arriving.
However, I couldn’t work out why I was especially being made a fuss of on that particular birthday.
I was completely unaware that people made a big deal of it! I still felt the same and don’t think I suddenly looked any older.
May your coming year be all you hope for.
Patricia Perth Australia
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Hey @Patricia,
Perhaps that’s it, I had no idea 40 was special either, lol. Too me it is just another day. 😉
[…] This post was mentioned on Twitter by Famous Bloggers, Will McCulloch. Will McCulloch said: @HealthyOpal Turned 40 and loving it… http://ow.ly/19jtwO […]
[…] Celebrate Life! celebrated in quietude as Opal Turned 40 and loving it… I am inspired by Opal’s follow through on her life goals and her focus on health, for mental well being. And the need to put oneself first to be able to be there for others. Luv luv the soul-funk beats of the tune included in the post~ Wheeler’s voice is indeed a Wonder! […]
Hi Opal, belated happy birthday! I totally agree that many moms tend to take care of others first and take care of themselves last. That’s what my mom does too. I hope you’re enjoying your gym time, it’s definitely good for you.
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Hi @Felicia @ No Deposit Poker,
Thanks so much, yes I’m enjoying the gym time. I always have. Although I do the same workouts at home it’s nice being around others. Since I work at home, I try to make sure I take time to interact too. That’s not always easy. My old workout buddy is happy. since we are working out again.
Hi Opal,
Happy belated birthday! You are an older bag than I… 🙂 I just had to say that!
Enjoy your workouts at the gym! Continue taking care of yourself. You are truly an inspiration!!
Take care,
Evelyn
Evelyn recently posted..Six Ways to Keep Your Blog Hot and Fresh
@Evelyn,
LOL, always have to be one to say that, eh? 😉
Thanks, I’m really enjoying working out regularly at the gym. I do love working out at home too, but I don’t have a sauna at home. 🙂
Happy Belated Birthday Opal!
Taking care of yourself is the best gift you can ever give to yourself. You will only get one you… 🙂
Dee recently posted..Method Behind my Madness …
Hi @Dee,
Thanks for the bday wishes. I agree, you only get one you. It’s important to take care of ourselves, in doing so we can better take care of others.
Happy 40th! What a great attitude you have! I’m not a gym person (open space and trees, please!), but I definitely admire your commitment to taking great care of your body every day.
Jennifer recently posted..Cats- Vegetarian Diets- and Paying the Price of Admission
Heu @Jennifer,
Yep I like the wide open spaces too, one thing I hate about cardio in the gym is that I’m restricted as to what I can do. I much prefer running outdoors. I try not to think about that on my cardio days. 😉 I am enjoying my sauna time. It is the main thing I missed, well besides working out with my friend/buddy.
[…] happy to report that exercising outside of the home is going very well. Exercise has always been a part of my life the only major change I’m […]
Man, I remember turning 40 for two reasons. One, I developed strep throat a day beforehand and still went to work like a moron. Two, because the day after I got a surprise party that I never saw coming, and if I’d been feeling better days earlier and not involved in a brand new computer system being installed where I was I think I might have figured out it was coming. But it was a wonderful day and it helped me get past the horror of turning 40, which it was at the time. Congrats!
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