Last Day: Day 31

It's the last day to slice for March and my last day of spring break. One of my slices early on in my break was a list of things I hoped to accomplish. I looked back at the list today and was disappointed that I had only done about half the things I expected. However, I did many things that should have been added to the list. That's the upside. 

As usual, a break never feels like a long enough time to do everything I want to do. I hope to keep chipping away at the list and enjoy the photos I hung on the wall, the organized closet, and the meal-prepping. Tomorrow, I will get caught up on lesson planning and clean a cabinet. What I really hope to do this week and every week in April is walk more. Whether it's outside or on my walking pad, I need to make it a priority during this stressful part of the school year. 

Thanks to all the slicers who participated this month. You make the month truly special for so many people with your commitment and encouragement. 

Posture Poses: Day 30

As I get older, I find my posture suffers more and more. While I was getting physical therapy for my shoulder recently, I was also given a few posture exercises to try. Being more aware has helped a lot, but over break, I haven't been as good about keeping up with exercise. Today, I tried finding additional exercises for my posture that would help me feel renewed. It was seriously helpful. 

I started with some basic warmups for my neck. I realized many of my muscles were tighter than I thought. Loosening and warming them up felt really good. Next up was a really odd-looking chin tuck that did a lot more stretching than the one I had been doing. It felt amazing. Using a towel, I did an extension strengthening exercise. This one was good, too, but the last stretch was by far the most challenging. 

If you need a solid 5-10 minute posture routine, I really like this one. 

Chicago: Day 28

We had one of those long days that means everyone will sleep well tonight. We left at six this morning for Chicago. Arie turned 17 today, and we planned to celebrate by spending a day at the aquarium, downtown, and on the train. Though it was chilly, the sun was shining, and it was gorgeous. We did just enough of everything we wanted and made it home by nine tonight.

One stop we made was at a fantastic bakery. We all picked out some tasty treats that will make the morning a continuation of a great day. 

Sister Visit: Day 26

I've been working through my list of things to accomplish over spring break. So far, I am making good headway. Today, I went to visit my sister.

My sister just had a procedure done yesterday and was going to be recovering at home. It seemed like a perfect day to visit and take some goodies. I got some cooling eye gel patches, hand lotion, cocoa-covered almonds, and dry shampoo. I love a tiny gift bag, and everything fit perfectly inside. My sister was appreciative and even shared the almonds with me while we sat and watched a movie. It was nice to just sit and relax together. It seems like we often see each other with lots of other family around and rarely just each other. I hope we can do it more often. 

Tired Pups: Day 25

In and out all day long. The puppies soaked up as much outside time as we’d allow. By 9pm tonight they were both exhausted. 

They’re already adorable puppies but sleepy puppies have a cuteness that’s unparalleled. Their floppiness and flexibility along with fluttering eyes meant an early bedtime. 

And now, it’s my turn. 

Laundry Haiku: Day 24

Textures and fibers

Layer upon layer, up

I climb to the top.

Dress: Day 23

Appointment time? Ten. 

Six dresses were tried on. 

Eyebrow questions remained. 

One more sweep of the racks. 

Exchanged looks.  

Just for fun?

No way it’s the one. 

But it was 

Still in shock

Said yes

To this dress.