Thursday, August 25, 2011

Another Year, Gratitude, and Focus on Wellness

A few days ago, it was my birthday. I don’t really like to celebrate my birthday. It goes back to my childhood and the fact that my birthday was never a big deal. No wrapped gifts. No big party. No cake. Okay. I didn’t really like cake back then. Anyway, my birthday was always disappointing, and I’ve carried the dislike for celebrating my birthday with me for a long time. And for many years, I didn’t celebrate. I figured it was better to not do anything because I wouldn’t be disappointed.

Today I realize how childish I have been for way too long. Life is a precious gift, and on my birthday it is my duty to celebrate this gift and to be thankful for it. It’s not about gifts or a fancy dinner. It’s about gratitude and appreciation for all that I have. It’s also about taking care of myself so that I am able to take care of those I love and live my best possible life. I realize that “taking care of yourself” only goes so far, and so many are less fortunate than I am at this moment and don’t have the gift of health that I enjoy right now. Yet another reason to be so very thankful…

So this year for my birthday there were flowers, cupcakes, a pie, and best of all lots of hugs and kisses! Smile


Hubby surprised me with a fantastic outing, and we went to the DISHCRAWL at the Fairmont in San Jose. We got to sample little bites from three restaurants at the Fairmont, and we got to explore the suites, which had the most amazing array of desserts. Hubby and I used to do date night quite regularly but for various reasons haven’t been out by ourselves in almost a year.  It was great to get out, and I appreciated every second. Thanks hubby for a great evening, and thanks Uncle Roy for babysitting!!!


Having another birthday also reminded me of the importance of focusing on my well being every day. For the next year (and beyond!), I want to focus on various parts of wellness (food, health, financial, relationship, work…) a little bit every day. I also want to continue to plan my meals and workouts. I have gotten several emails asking me where my meal and workout planning posts have gone… I always plan our meals and workouts on my whiteboard, but they don’t always make it on the blog. I thought that maybe a Facebook page would be a quicker and more convenient way to plan meals, workouts, and post various wellness reminders (for myself and anyone else who is interested). It’s also an easy way to start a conversation… I will still continue to post meals and workouts on this blog when time allows.

If you’d like to join the conversation on my Facebook page, head over there and “like” my page.

Questions: Do you like to celebrate your birthday? Why or why not? What is one thing you’ll do for yourself today? Let’s inspire each other! 

Be well,
Andrea