Making Changes: Friday

Happy Friday! I am currently relaxing at home for the afternoon until I go into work this evening. I'm snuggled up in my bed reflecting on my week and thinking of the things I need to accomplish for today, next week, and even next year. I'm remembering where I was a year ago. It's hard for me to believe where I am now as opposed to where I thought I would be. I thought I would be graduating college along with the rest of my senior class this year, but that was not in the cards for me. Today, I signed up to attend school in the Spring. I'm quite nervous to go back, but I know it's a good move for me. I am trying to figure things out so I can meet and/or surpass my own expectations of who I want to become as a person. I feel like I'm shedding my old skin and growing a new and tougher one. I am feeling at peace with myself and my choices. One thing I know I can rely on through this process is the love of my life, my soul mate, coffee (Just kidding friends and family). In all honesty though, it's going to be the only thing keeping me up in class. Thanks for reading, love bugs! -xoxo

Currently listening to:

Candle & mug from Anthroplogie.
*Photo by me

Making changes: Bye bye, dark hair.

That is right! I ditched my always dark brown hair and went mega light! My hair stylist didn't really match my hair to the photo that I wanted, but I like how it turned out. I was really nervous on the way to get my hair done. I've never gone lighter before. I had hear horror stories of people's hair turning orange or their hair falling out. I was beginning to feel petrified. I showed up at the salon and my hair lady, Amanda, did a test piece to see how my hair would react to the bleach. I had already died my hair auburn recently and there was still remains of the color in my hair. Surprisingly, the test piece was coming out great! So we went for it.

Three hours, dozens of foils, a deep conditioning, and a trim later, we got this:

I am beyond happy with the results. The photo doesn't even show how light my hair actually is. I'll try and get some better quality ones soon. I hope you all like it!

Making Changes: Goals Update!

A little over two months ago, I decided to make a list of goals that I wanted to complete by the end of summer. I didn't realize how much progress I had already made with three months til my deadline! Here are the updates:

>>Stop drinking soda: I have actually stuck with this one. I had one vodka and Sprite while in Vegas, but I've been soda free otherwise.

>>Lose fifteen pounds (or more): I have currently lost twelve pounds! I am so excited. It's crazy how much cutting portions and counting callories can help you! I've also been going to yoga more frequently than I have before (but still not as much as I'd like to). I feel more energetic and flexible than ever!

>>Plant something and keep it alive: I made a succulent terrarium about a month ago and that sucker is still alive and kickin'. I'm surprised at how much it's grown! I bought a macrame hanger for it, but I'm waiting until I move out to hang it anywhere. I'm not trying to put any more holes in my parents' walls and ceiling.   

>>Get a full time job: I got promoted at my second job from cashier to shift lead which includes a significant pay raise and increase in hours. I will be making enough money to be able to move out and live in a studio apartment on my own! I've done lots of research and have found a few places I'm interested in.

>>Have a garage sale: My parents had a garage sale a few weeks ago and I sold a bunch of clothes. I am now $17 richer. 

>>Save some money each paycheck to treat myself to something nice: I am the worst saver ever. So I'm still working on this one. 

>>Run a mile in under eight minutes (My fastest mile time was 7:12): I ran once and remembered how much I hate it. Yoga forever.

Here's a visual of my weight loss progress:

My face has thinned out significantly, my legs are looking slimmer (and paler), my tummy is a lot flatter, and boobs are shrinking (I don't mind that actually). I'm feeling good. I shrank a pant size in the last two months which means I'm back to the size I was my senior year of high school! I'm currently a size 10 and I'm hoping to get down to a size 8 by July. I'm feeling so much better about myself. The progress is making me more motivated to keep up with my diet. I'll try and update you guys again soon! 

Thanks for reading!

Making Changes/Moving Out

As I had mentioned in previous posts, I have gotten promoted. I finally sat down with my parents this evening to discuss me moving out and what options I have. I am in search of a studio apartment that isn't too far from where I live now. I'm not looking to commute to work. The less gas money, the better. I did some researching and with my expected pay (after taxes), it looks like I may be able to afford a place on my own. I never realized how much cheaper studios were compared to one bedroom apartments. I really don't need that much space. I also do not want a roommate. I am totally comfortable living on my own even if that means money will be tight.

My parents and I also discussed me getting my own phone plan. I am currently paying for my data and insurance on my phone each month (I also paid for my phone on my own) and I may switch to a different and much cheaper carrier. Virgin Mobile, I'm coming for you.

I keep dreaming of being able to hang things on my walls, find an old, Goodwill couch, and having so much more space to store all of my coffee mugs. It's going to be wonderful. 

Pinterest is helping me with potential home decor and DIY ideas.

Currently listening to:

All photos can be found on my Pinterest**

I just can't wait to have my own place. It's going to take awhile and a lot of money, but I want to do this so badly. And if it doesn't work out, I got the okay from my parents to move back in when I can't afford rent. Thanks Mom and Dad!

Making Changes/Getting Fit

In a previous post, I discussed my goal of losing some weight by the end of summer. I have wasted no time in beginning that process. I am cutting down my portions, counting my calories, and staying away from junk food and soda. In one week, I managed to lose 3.6 pounds without exercise. This week I am adding yoga (and potentially running) into my daily regimen. I am feeling really good about myself and I am already seeing a slight difference in my body. I have more energy. I am making smarter choices. I am also seeing a slight physical difference (getting that flatter tummy).

I have this next week off of work (for one of my jobs) and Madison and I are going to try to do yoga every day. I wasn't able to do it with her today, but I did an at home session with a Youtube video as my instructor. I can already feel it in my legs. I am so rejuvenated and excited to get back into shape. 

I am also excited about how good my lunch was today!

Spinach salad with hard boiled egg, cheese, dried cranberries, sliced almonds, and scrumptious vinaigrette dressing. Mmmmm!

Also, I want to be able to get up to this level of yoga:

I'm not going to lie. My main goal in to be able to do a handstand. I need to learn to balance. I am also looking to tone my arms. Let me know if you have any suggestions!

Original photos: (x)

Currently jamming:

I'll be sharing my fitness story as time progresses. Let me know if you have any meal plans or exercise tips for me! I am down for any and all ideas.

Happy Saturday!