Today, I am off from the gym, but not from my nutritional plan. I decided to substitute my sweet potatoes for oats because I just wanted that "still on vacation feeling". Sitting on the couch, under a blanket,   eating a bowl of oatmeal, to me, screams relaxation. 

My two weeks off is, officially, over. School begins bright and early in the morning. And, the final quarter of my credentialing program begins the following Monday. Quite honestly, I am not ready to go back. I definitely could have used these last few days of the week. (Who made the decision to start on a Thursday?)  I feel like I was just making a dent in my 'to do' list. But, I was somewhat productive.

I have been able to make progress with the reorganizing and purging that I wanted to do around the apartment. I am one of the those people who begins to fill bogged down when things are too cluttered. It actually affects my mood. At first it is just a few items that are out of place. Then, I find myself bogged down in the day-to-day routine and adding to the problem. Next, I ignore the problem. Finally, I find myself annoyed that I allowed myself to let things accumulate. 

It has been a goal, for a while, to pare down some of the things that we have and reclaim some living space and some head space. I finally have one more room to go--the bedroom. My daughter's room is being saved for last. For her birthday she was given the option of a "room makeover". Something that reflects her likes and her tastes (which is currently hot pink and zebra prints. 

Paring down other things has, predictably, made it easier to stick to my plan. I can find gym clothes easier; food is organized. There are not any "surprises" waiting for me in the back of the refrigerator. I feel more focused when everything has a place. So, if you find yourself struggling to stick to a plan; and you are wondering what could be holding you back. Consider taking inventory of your space. Some items on my on reorganzation/purging list included: 

• Cleaning out the refrigerator: I found some items that I forget I purchased, like a whole bag of frozen blueberries. A clean refridgerator just looks appetizing--like the ones on commercials. 
  
• Tossing old gym clothes: If there there were holes, or they were too tight, worn in the crotch, they did not make the cut. 
  
• Organizing and sorting the junk drawer: I discovered plenty of batteries for my food scale!
  
• Disposing of old tupperware: Why do we even bother buying the no name plastic wear when we know the tops NEVER fit, properly. I am sticking to Rubbermaid. 
  
• Categorizing the food cabinet:  I have oatmeal coming out of my ears--and I like that. My carbs are easily accessible. And, now I have quick answers when my daughter asks, "What's for dinner?"
  
• Tossing old spices: You get on an adventurous kick and there are always spices that you are NEVER going to revisit--in life. Get rid of them (or you can share with someone).
  
• Cleaning out the closet: I will probably be doing this for the next few weeks. But, it is nice to have a functioning closet; meaning: the close fit and I wear them, regularly. Anything else will be donated. 
  
  
  

  If your environment impacts you, let me know!