Thursday, December 31, 2009

Thursday Thirteen

Things I have changed in the last decade or so (hopefully for the better) and some things I will continue to work on in the upcoming decade.

1. I exercise. I grew up on a farm and "exercise" was unheard of. We did chores. We hauled hay and fed the chickens and fetched firewood. I hated the "exercise" part of school, too; I have a thing about sweat (not necessarily sweating, but sweat). But now I exercise by walking on the treadmill almost every day.

2. I eat better. My meals once consisted of breakfast of baloney and catsup sandwiches. Now I eat a fairly healthy, balanced diet, with chocolate my big weakness. I have my greens and my protein and my fruits.

3. I am a more cautious driver. I suspect this comes with age, but in my youth I was pretty much hell on wheels. While I was never caught, I was a speed demon. Not so much anymore.

4. I am slightly better organized. This still remains an issue but it is getting better.

5. I know I procrastinate. This is not yet something I've overcome but at least I am aware of it!

6. I stopped biting my nails. This was a bad habit and while I still occasionally might rip a nail off mostly I just keep them clipped very very short so that I don't gnaw on them.

7. I've learned to take better pictures. While I still don't consider myself a photographer, I think my shots have gotten a little prettier and better established.

8. I bought my first new car as a married woman. My first truly new car some kind of hatchback thing I bought when I was 19. After that we bought used vehicles. In 1999 we purchased a new Ford Taurus which I was extremely relieved to be rid of when I bought a new Toyota Camry in 2003. I had hoped to drive the Taurus a lot longer but I really disliked that car. Prior to that all of my vehicles had been used cars.

9. I stopped drinking caffeine. I drink only decaf tea and I have never drank coffee.

10. I stopped drinking colas. Every now and then I might have a root beer but that is very infrequent these days. I might have a cola about twice a month, maybe not that.

11. I don't rush. I used to be worried that there wouldn't be enough time; now I know there isn't enough time so I just try to plod along and do the best I can.

12. I sleep better. I used to have insomnia and spent as much time trying to sleep as sleeping. I don't do that anymore. While I might wake up once or twice in the night I go right back to sleep, usually, and I feel rested.

13. I believe in alternative health care. I used to think the doctor knew everything but I don't believe that any more. I have had great success with acupuncture, reiki, massage and chiropractic care. I recommend alternative health care to everyone.

Thursday Thirteen is a way to get to know a bunch of folks. You can learn more about it here. This my 120th week of participating!

12 comments:

  1. I enjoy your Thursday Thirteen, Anita. I also am a believer in alternative medicine---I've gotten more help out of herbal medicines I've taken than prescription drugs. With fewer side effects.

    And about #8: I really, really love my 2000 Camry.

    Happy New Year to you and your husband!

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  2. You've made great changes. I'm working on many of these -- but have already joined you in the cola/rootbeer/coffee/caffeine movement.

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  3. Lately I've been swinging wood from the woodpile like weights before I throw it in the stove.

    I don't think of myself as a photographer either but I have gotten paid for pictures, so maybe I am.

    I think everyone is better off quitting soda.

    I saw a Charlie Rose show last night with some guy knocking alternative health products, saying that we just won't look at the science. I wanted to shout, we use it because we have seen it work! At least some of it really does even if you can't prove it in double blind.

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  4. I'm no longer a speed demon either, but not from prudence regarding accidents or the law. I slowed down because it helps my cars limp along a little longer.

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  5. I wish you...

    love and luck and so much more on the auspicious occasion of NEW YEAR'S EVE and 2010.

    May all your resolutions and dreams come true!

    hugs!

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  6. Great. A list of what you have accomplished instead of what you resolve to do! Congratulations.

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  7. Wonderful reflections ... a few are true of me as well (#3, 4, 5, 7, 10). I still love my morning coffee but I brew it as 'half-caf' rather than full-strength. I'm also with you on slowing down and checking out alternative health care. I've shared 13 Random Reflections this week. Wishing you and yours a Joyous New Year ;-)
    Hugs and blessings,

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  8. Good list. It's helpful to take the time to write down some of the things that we've done and changed over the years, otherwise time slips by without our acknowledgment. Good luck on your future goals and may 2010 be a wonderful one for you and yours.

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  9. It's amazing how much we can change in one decade.

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  10. Isn't getting older just better in some ways?! I always wish I could get my youth back and keep what I've learned.

    Happy New Year! Here is to more wonderful changes for the better.

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  11. I love your list. I think we should all stop and acknowledge the things we have accomplished.

    I'm wishing you a 2010 full of happiness and peace!

    Mary

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