Today I’m sharing some fun ’80s nostalgia pics, thanks to a few creative designers and DIY bloggers who’ve put a new spin on retro style. These photos are a backdrop for a different kind of post. I tend not to write too much about life behind the scenes, but this winter has been particularly challenging. Ever felt stuck and kind of frozen when it comes to moving forward? If so, there may be something you can relate to here. If not, at least you’ll enjoy the photos and projects featured today! [keychain above designed by Studio DIY]
On a positive note, 2017 was one of the best years of my life. After many years of hoping to become a mom, my husband and I welcomed a daughter. It has been a life-affirming, life-changing experience. And an eye-opening one at that. Parenthood definitely shines the spotlight on every aspect of your life. Not the best at eating three healthy meals a day? Yeah, that’s not a good plan for the sleep-deprived months of being a new mom. Tend to wallow when things don’t go your way? Even a young child will notice the change in you. The biggest realization that has come to the forefront this year has been my lack of balance. [flamingo floppy sun hat from Aww Sam]
I’m an extroverted introvert. I love people, but I seriously have to follow up each social event with a few hours of time alone in order to recharge. I also tend to have more of an artist’s temperament. I’m at my best when I’m able to create something each day (even something small). I put this drive to create before things like cooking, cleaning the house, getting in touch with people, and more. My family comes first, then work, and that leaves just a little bit of time to work on creative projects…and keep up with life. Lately I haven’t been sleeping nearly as much as I should, the house is a mess, I’ve been a not-so-good friend to the people around me, and I can truly see how easy it is give up on certain things in life. Not life itself, but things like fitness, nutrition, keeping up with meaningful relationships. You know, the stuff that helps you to thrive. [photo above from Mirror80]
The older I get, the more I can see myself in people like that lady down the street who takes her trashcan to the curb at 4pm because she doesn’t want to have to go outside again after she showers at 5pm and stays in for the night. Or that guy who assumes he’s never going to get in really good shape because it would have happened by now and this is just how life is going to be. It’s so, so easy to get into your comfort zone and stay there, especially when you’re really busy during the other 23 hours a day. For me, something needs to change. I think it’s going to take a lot of effort and the results are going to take awhile to notice. I’m not talking about physical appearance here–I’m talking about a lifestyle change. Taking charge. [enamel pin by Lazer Kitten]
Since I definitely need time to recharge each day, I’m going to have to make sure I keep that up. It may not be as much as I had when I was single and in my 20s, but it has to happen. Or I become a not-so-nice version of myself. I’m also going to have to make sure I sleep more. And eat better. This is actually getting easier as my daughter is eating more table food. I know I’ll prepare the fresh produce for her. So why not wash a little bit more and join her for a healthy lunch? [chill pill-ow by Aww Sam, unicorn sticker below from Laser Kitten]
I’m really good at taking daily walks with my daughter, and pushing a stroller up the hill is great exercise. But there are other things I need to step up (hello hand weights). As of now, here are a few things I’ve committed to doing each day:
reaching out to one friend, even if it’s a short message
tackling one small organizational project, such as cleaning 1/3 of my closet (no pressure to finish it all in one day)
exercising and toning
eating 3 servings of fresh fruit and/or veggies
taking the vitamin supplement I’m supposed to take every night but never remember to
spending less time on the couch and more time on the creative projects I say I never have time to finish
listening to music–it seriously motivates me
I’ll revisit this post in a few months and share a quick update. Thanks for reading! XOXO, Kate
Honey, I’m so proud of you for posting this! And you can do it – these are great steps to making your quality of life better, and I love that you’re working on taking better care of yourself – love you!!! Steph
Stephanie! Thank you for your support and encouragement. I love you, and your words are just what I needed to hear today. <3
P.S. – You inspire me more than you know!
Aw, sweetie, you’re the one who constantly inspires me!
Excellent! I used to write these things on index cards and pick one from the pack. Then I had to do the thing. Lovely that you have a daughter! I wish you all the best and as many pink flamingos as you desire.
Thank you so much, Lucy!!! I really appreciate your encouragement, and I love your index car idea. I hope your spring has been a lovely one so far. Thank you again for reaching out.
Haven’t been here for a few years, Kate, but often think of your projects and hope the best for you, and just had to comment on this. I know exactly what you mean and that pin has reminded me of something that always works when I’m going through similar situations… Watch your fav feelgood/inspiring 80s movies again. For me that would be Desperately Seeking Susan and (thanks, pin!) Don’t Tell Mom The Babysitter’s Dead. If Sue Ellen could do it, we all can!