School starts in less than a week, I can't wait. It is going to be a very exciting year with a lot of new opportunities and things ahead. To work in education creates new and exciting on a daily basis yet this year, with a new assignment, and some new goals outside of work, it is a year full of change, possibility, and newness.

My hope for today was to spend the day working on my next book yet after sleeping in (a few hours lost to sleep gained me a refreshed spirit and less bags under my eyes), I did not accomplish nearly as much as planned.

My initial plan to spend the day writing was modified to spending time with my Dad for a couple hours. This is much needed time as our lunch dates and non-clock-watching visits are coming to an end so rather than spend time behind a computer, I made memories and enjoyed time with Dad. Life is about choices, choosing friends and family over work is a healthy choice. Don't you agree?

With the exception of today's blog and drafting next week's blogs, I think I'll finish listening to Vincent and Theo: The Van Gogh Brothers, by Deborah Heiligman.  I had the opportunity to listen to the author this summer at a conference. I'm not an artist and I still find this biography fabulous. If you are an art fan, you'd probably like it even more. I miss the illustrations she shares in the paper copy yet if it wasn't for having it on audio, I probably wouldn't have read it. 

​On this note, it's time to run...have a great weekend everyone! 

In the midst of moving our daughter into her new dorm, wrapping up summer school, family vacation, helping to get our school and classrooms ready, and my mission organization I realized something is missing. You know what it was?

I haven't baked too much. :-( 

I did try a Blueberry-Lemon Zucchini Cake Sunday but I'm feeling the need to bake some bread or donuts or...the baking thoughts are filling my head. Today's goal, carve time out this weekend to bake break and maybe some donuts for my Dad. I'm not sure which, or maybe both, but this girl needs to spend some time baking in the kitchen. (I might as well wait to vacumm until after the baking day, lol) Is there something you miss doing when you are overly focused on getting the to-do-list finished?

Happy Tuesday Everyone! I thought today's blog would start with word count victory yet this is not the case. Instead I can let you know, I haven't done much writing BUT my house is more organized than it's been since about February. Messy but getting organized.

I've filled three boxes of recyclables, 2 bags of garbage, and large box of papers to use to start the backyard fire or to shred. I downsized from two file cabinets to one. I cleaned the inside of two cabinets. A book shelf that was buried in a corner went to the side of the road because it was in such bad shape. Items for others are in my car and ready to be re-homed, returned, or dropped off to the rescue mission. To say I 'm feeling accomplished is an understatement. I still have one file cabinet drawer to organize but I need a whole day to do this.

I'm even going to go through my bookshelves. GASP! Say it isn't so! Yes it is. I have some books from college that I saved in case my daughter could use them or because they were interesting reads. Guess what, twenty plus years later...the books are no good to my daughter's college education and they aren't that interesting at nearly fifty years of age. Go figure.

Once I finish the file cabinet drawer I plan to run the vacumm, dust, clean the bathroom, and then sit for the entire next day with the task to read, write, and relax. Nothing more...

I just enjoyed two days at the Annual Oswego Writing Institute with three fabulous Key Notes. Each inspiring me in different ways. This is what I'm thankful for this morning:

• Javaka Steptoe: "The Power of Writing" inspired and motivated me to finish the next book by asking a few questions of ourselves. 1st - What is my passion and Why do I write? 2nd: What fear or fears are holding me back? http://www.javaka.com/ 

• Deborah Heiligman: "Writing to Learn" reminded me that if only one person reads my writing and is inspired and moved then the writing is a success. Her energy and enthusiasm to write and leave a legacy was powerful. http://deborahheiligman.com/

• Tim Conners: "Live Your Story", a childhood cancer survivor who lost his sight in the process encouraged a room full of adults with such hope and power that everyone left changed. http://www.mountimpossible.com/

I’m a happy writer today. Through a different writing activity, I found a place to write that won’t break the bank or require me to buy beverages or food I don’t need, is close-ish to home, is secure, and offers unlimited inspiration AND limited interruptions. I’m so excited, it has been awhile since I looked forward to packing up my writing and hitting the road.

Some authors work well at home because they have an office or room to work. Our house is just the right size for us yet isn’t big enough for an office where I can escape the to-do-lists, piles, and pets. I used to go to my parents’ house, the public library, DD, or a café. I think this is part of my struggle, to leave the house to write reminds me of my Mom and triggers those bittersweet memories. When I’m working on a book, or serious writing, I prefer minimal to no distraction so “public” doesn’t always prove beneficial. I’m easily distracted, true story.

Last week as I spent a few hours helping other people write their stories I found a writing get-away. I look forward to hearing the tap, tap, tap, on the keyboard more often and see the chapters start building. At our annual Bishop Cunningham/Oswego Catholic Reunion I had a woman join us at our table. She shared how she attended the Where’s Heidi? One Sister’s Journey book release and followed my writing. She asked about the next book and when could she expect the next book. This encouraged me more than she realized, then God highlighted this great writing environment the following week. I love it when things work out like this, don’t you? Some people call they God Stops, but my friend Shari introduced me to the notion of “Shoulder Taps” from God. I love that.

To follow through with God’s tapping on my shoulder, I’m adding “Book writing” onto the schedule for now on once I can coordinate usage at my new-found writer’s getaway. 

If you are a regular reader or listener then you’ll recognize this, “So goes Monday, so goes the week.”, right? This past Monday was a productive, yet relaxing day and I prayed the week would continue in the same manner. We survived our last week of Summer School. I must say the heat and humidity was tolerable for most of the three weeks and the AC units the district placed in our classrooms kept the “high heat index days” manageable so the kiddos and teacher didn’t melt.

To wear a Kindergarten teacher’s hat was an honor and I hope the kids learned, had fun, and looked forward to coming each day. I know this past week they were exhausted and ready for a break, I could relate. When I found myself counting down the days I reminded myself there are many districts who don’t have funding for summer school. This helped keep me grounded. Our school district is one of the lower socio-economic districts for our state, so summer school offers an opportunity for our students to not only continue their education, but they also received two meals a day, at not cost to their families. These are great blessings to count.

I organized some drawers and piles this week too. This gives such a sense of accomplishment but of course no one else notices because it was a hidden mess, BUT I know they’re clean now. As I baked during the week I decided my kitchen drawers need a good organizing, so they are on my August to-do-list, unless I forget. This is a good possibility. Out of sight, out of mind, right?!
​
I did pretty good this week with achieving my blogging, podcasting, and exercise goals. I’m proud of myself. The area I struggled the most with was my exercise, so it will be my priority looking ahead. I did better about get enough sleep and eating healthier, but I didn’t get all my core and cardio workouts in that I wanted. I walked but I don’t count those, walking is a bonus.

Monday, July 23rd @ The Muffin
Author Interview and Giveaway!
http://muffin.wow-womenonwriting.com/2018/07/rose-colored-glasses-by-jo-ann-simon.html

Tuesday, July 24th @ JoAnn Simon
Crystal Casavant-Otto reviews Rose Colored Glasses by Jo Ann Simon - don't miss this opportunity to learn more about Jo Ann's touching memoir.
https://forgetmenotjosi.wordpress.com/

Wednesday, July 25th @ Bring on Lemons with Michelle DelPonte
Wisconsin mother, wife, and autism advocate Michelle DelPonte reviews Rose Colored Glasses by Jo Ann Simon and shares her thoughts with readers at Bring on Lemons. This is an unforgettable memoir!
http://bringonlemons.blogspot.com/

Thursday, July 26th @ Beverley Baird
Beverley Baird reviews Rose Colored Glasses by Jo Ann Simon. This touching memoir is one readers won't soon forget! You'll want to add this one to your #TBRPile today!
https://beverleyabaird.wordpress.com/

Friday, July 27th @ Choices
The readers at Madeline Sharples blog, Choices, are in for a special treat today as Jo Ann Simon pens the guest post "Seeing Art Through the Artist's Eye". Readers can enjoy this post while also learning about Simon's memoir Rose Colored Glasses recently published by WiDO Publishing.
http://madelinesharples.com/

Monday, July 30th @ Selling Books with Cathy Stucker
Cathy Stucker interview Jo Ann Simon about her recently published memoir Rose Colored Glasses
https://www.sellingbooks.com/

Tuesday, July 31st @ World of My Imagination
Nicole Pyles reviews Rose Colored Glasses by JoAnn Simon and shares her thoughts with readers at World of My Imagination. Don't miss a chance to learn about this memoir of love and loss.
https://theworldofmyimagination.blogspot.com/

Thursday, August 2nd @ Memoir Writer's Journey
Today's post at Memoir Writer's Journey includes a guest post titled "Simplicity in Life" written by Jo Ann Simon. There is also a link to Kathleen Pooler's review of Simon's recently published memoir Rose Colored Glasses. Readers won't want to miss this opportunity to learn more about Simon and her lovely memoir.
https://krpooler.com/

Friday, August 3rd @ One Sister's Journey
Lisa takes shares how Jo Ann Simon's book is a perfect "come back" book for having books tour on her blog.
https://www.lisambuske.com/blog.html

Tuesday, August 7th @ Bring on Lemons
Today's author spotlight at Bring on Lemons is Jo Ann Simon featuring her recently published memoir Rose Colored Glasses. Don't miss a chance to learn about Simon and check out Crystal's review of this touching memoir.
http://bringonlemons.blogspot.com/

Wednesday, August 8th @ Lisa Haselton
Lisa Haselton interviews JoAnn Simon about her memoir Rose Colored Glasses (and more)!
http://lisahaseltonsreviewsandinterviews.blogspot.com/

Wednesday, August 8th @ Margo Dill
Today's guest author is Jo Ann Simon of Rose Colored Glasses - and today's topic is "A Positive Attitude". Don't miss this blog stop!
http://margodill.com/blog/

Monday, August 13th @ Write Happy
Catherine Brown reviews Rose Colored Glasses a touching memoir by JoAnn Simon.
https://www.writehappy.net/blog

Monday, August 13th @ Coffee with Lacey
Lacey reviews Rose Colored Glasses by Jo Ann Simon. Don't miss the opportunity to learn more about this inspirational memoir about love, loss, and hope!
https://coffeewithlacey.wordpress.com/

Thursday, August 16th @ Ellen Valladares
Fellow author Ellen Valladares reviews Rose Colored Glasses by Jo Ann Simon.
https://ellenvalladares.com/

Wednesday, August 22nd @ Linda Appleman Shapiro
Fellow memoirist Linda Appleman Shapiro shares her thoughts after reading Rose Colored Glasses by Jo Ann Simon.
http://applemanshapiro.com/category/book-reviews/

Thursday, August 23rd @ Bring on Lemons with Cathy Hansen
Wisconsin educator, mother, and business owner Cathy Hansen reviews the memoir Rose Colored Glasses by Jo Ann Simon.
http://bringonlemons.blogspot.com/

Last week on the podcast we revisited the goals we set back in May and June. It is always a good idea to revisit your goals to celebrate successes and modify areas of weakness. As I posted this new calendar, aka, chart on the bathroom door I realized I NEED to see my exercise goals too. 

It's important to remember when setting goals, set reasonable and achievable goals and have your plan and monitoring chart visible. About the only place in our house I find help is on the outside of the bathroom door. It's an area I see often as it's in the center of the house an I can stare at it when I'm having my coffee in the morning, a daily reminder and motivation to stay the course.

Rather than having a second chart and finding a second location, I adapted the social media goals to include my exercise. It is working, I started this Monday and so far it's working pretty good. Our daughter was home on Tuesday for her birthday dinner and to chillax but never commented, she's so used to me and my visual aids that she probably didn't even notice. 

I haven't done a cardio workout, except walking, but my hope is to start an actual workout tape a few times a week but for now, as long as summer school is in session, the morning walks will have to count. The goal is to establish routines I can maintain regardless of my schedule, hours worked, or life's happenings...healthy and balanced life is a must. I'm not giving up and when I need to make modifications, I will.

Hello everyone! How are you doing? I've missed sharing with you via the blog yet I'm trying to find a healthy balance between being a good wife, mom, and daughter; work (that pays the bills); work (to write the next book); blogging; podcasting; writing to write; reading; preparing for our next ladies' Bible Study, volunteering, and the little things I've probably forgotten, or the things I'm avoiding (like cleaning my house, lol).

To keep it real, in the summer, it's easy to manage and get it all the done yet when the two weeks before school starts I struggle to juggle it all. With my A-type, first-born, mentality, I want to do it all and do it to the best of my ability so rather than let someone else down (a strength and weakness), I'll neglect sleep, eating properly, and doing the things I enjoy and bring me relaxation in order to get-r-done. 

I share this with you and ask your patience as I find a healthy spiritual, physical, and mental balance. Everything on my plate is a choice and something I enjoy so it's hard to choose. Rather than choose, I'm working to establish a balance that can be maintained from the end of August through June, not just for a few short weeks. You understanding and patience is appreciated. 

For those following the podcast, thank you for your encouragement and inspiration. I continue to be amazed at the way God uses technology for His good. I didn't podcast today as I'm balancing teaching, getting my exercise, sleep, and absorbing as much "free" reading as I can. As I ease into the latter part of my forties, it's time to set healthier priorities and possibly, quite possibly, starting saying no a little more so we (my family & friends) can have more relaxing time together. I hope this make sense.

In a nutshell,
THANK YOU FOR LISTENING AND READING!!
Thank you for encouraging and inspiring me!

Happy Fourth of July everyone!

It is beautiful, sunny, and a perfect day for a picnic. Remember your sunscreen, drink a lot of water,
and make memories.

I plan to spend most of the day at home reading a good book catching up on things to do,
and enjoying time with our daughter
who is home for 24 hours from college.

​I shared of the following poem, Jesus on the Fourth of July, written by Marilyn Ferguson, on this morning’s podcast, click here to listen,
​
I encourage you to read this beautiful poem and let her know how great it is.
I included her email and if you click on the title of the poem, there is a direct link to her page.

Thank you Marilyn for sharing your gift of writing with all of us and reminding us that the Fourth of July is about so many freedoms, even greater than those we can see today.

wrapped up the afte Noon.Day two in Florida and Day One of summer vacation, a fun and memorable day. We walked the “Lake Tradition Loop” with Ed’s brother and his nephews two boys. It was great! In addition to getting some exercise, God showered us and even offered wind and sideways rain as if we were on a water ride. The boys laughed, we laughed, and enjoyed the puddle jumping. We postponed the rest of the day’s plans so we could go back to the house and change in to dry clothes.

After drying off, eating lunch, and letting the baby nap a bit...we went for ice cream. Yes, again! Hubby’s sugar was higher than it’s been in a month so we scheduled ice cream for earlier in the day. A trip to Target to spoil the nephews wrapped up the afternoon.

We enjoyed the central air, kid’s songs and dancing, and wore the kiddos out. Our nephews beautiful and fabulous wife finally took a nap and let us take care of their oldest boy. While she napped, I made dinner. It felt good to “earn my keep”, lol, seriously they are spoiling us and it was a joy to do something to show our appreciation.

the perfect ending to the day...baseball!!

This trip has been a "discussion" for years and last fall became more of a focused thought. We started saving money, just in case. A few months ago, this became a reality and the planning, saving, and anticipation were in full swing. It was the first graduation I've missed in years and worth it. 

Hubby and I have fun stories to tell about the journey from New York to Florida and have made so many memories in just a couple days, we are ever so grateful and blessed. We will enjoy time with family in Florida until the wee hours of Wednesday morning and then we start our trek to Indiana to visit more family. We decided this was the perfect way to celebrate twenty-five years of marriage (not until the end of August but with our calendars, this was the only time we could go together, lol). 

Without family we wouldn't be the couple we are. We are grateful for the hospitality, love, and laughter we are enjoying while away from home. The only thing missing is our girl but times are a changing and she's growing up. We are grateful for her drive and determination to work and take summer classes, we are hoping to plan a get-away with her this summer, even if only for a day or two.

I just wanted to say Hi and let you know we are okay, just taking some much needed time to recharge. While I might not be blogging everyday, you can catch me on the airwaves, via my podcast. Hubby and I made one together Friday night/early Saturday morning when we couldn't find a hotel room. Too funny. See you soon!

I know some of you are shaking your heads at me and think I have finally lost it, for real this time BUT I haven't. It must be a good idea because Pastor Brandon did an entire series on how we are each "perfectly imperfect". I simply borrowed his phrase and tied it into the messages I've shared this week on my podcast and here on the blog. 

Typically people think about setting goals and making plans at the end of December and early in January but this has never worked for me, especially becoming an educator. I do much better when I set goals in June so I have the summer to create new habits, meet with my accountability buddies, and focus on improving, educating, and rejuvenating myself. This isn't in a selfish way, it's one with health and wellness in mind.

Educators spend 80 - 90% of their year giving back to educate and inspire their students. Regardless of what some think, the teachers touching a child's heart and making a difference are working at least this much, if not more. It's worth every minute! On the flip side, our own self care is often set aside so we can care for our families when we aren't taking care of our students. 

Summer is a time of refreshment, recharging, and rejuvenation for me! I still wear my teacher hat, as I'll always be a teacher BUT the priority isn't others so much in the summer, it's more about sharpening my saw and returning to school in September relaxed and ready for the new year's adventure in New York State education and the positive impact I hope to make on the students I work with.

I'm perfectly imperfect and proud of it! I have goals set and a plan to meet them. What about you?