Over my years, I have learned you cannot change people. You can hope and wish and hint at change, but really it is a futile endeavour. You can choose to get down in the pit with a person or be the person with a rope and wait with patience for them to grab hold. You can be the help and you can be the support but you cannot be the change in anyone but yourself.
You can, however, change how react. You can change how you move forward. You can choose where to put forth your energy. You can have faith that your positive choices will eventually have a positive effect on those around you. But change doesn't happen overnight. You can't hope for change before bed and wake up to find everything as you hope. Just like you can't plant a garden one day and wake up expecting a full harvest the next day.
The garden metaphor is a good one for me. Years ago, when we moved out here, I started my first garden with a very green thumb. I made plenty of mistakes. Knowing I wanted better results I reached out to experienced gardeners. I read gardening books and websites. Each spring, I implemented changes and each year I saw improvements. Had I not made any changes over the years, I would still be dealing with the same frustrating results.
Find a recurring event in your life and evaluate how you react to it. It will be different for everyone. Food, children, spouses...? Is your reaction the same every time? If you react the same every time, why are different results expected? How will you change your reaction to get different results?
Just some food for thought.
Wednesday, February 22, 2012
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Christmas Day
Christmas Day was spent at home. We opened up our family gifts and then hosted Adam's family for Christmas dinner.
Thursday, January 05, 2012
Today
Today, Ashley, Tyson and I headed into the city. The main reason was for Ashley as she had a doctor appointment to check her hearing. Over Christmas, I noticed a lot of "turn it up" and "what?" and "what did you say." My inlaws noticed it during her short visit over Christmas and the EA's (educational assitant) in her classroom have also noticed troubles when seated in the back. So we are trying an approach for a month at which time she will go back and be retested. If the problem still persists she will go for further testing.
Heading to Edmonton also allowed me to visit United Cycle during their January clearance. I went there last year and bought myself 2 pairs of shoes at 50-60% which lasted me through 2011. This year I got myself another pair of running shoes (50% off), my first pair of cycling shoes (30% off) and new bike pedals (10% off). The only thing I paid full price for was a pair of socks that say "I ♥ Tri" and I'll admit it was more impulse than actual need :-/
I then found my way to MEC and bought myself a pair of Vibram shoes. They are for barefoot running. I am hoping some barefoot running will make me more efficient and stronger. I will still use traditional running shoes but this should be a positive addition to my training :-)
And that was our day. We rushed (safely back) to get Natasha from school and then home to make supper. Everyone is playing, though not quietly, and I am looking forward to my night of run, Grey's Anatomy, Private Practice and maybe a glass of red wine.
Heading to Edmonton also allowed me to visit United Cycle during their January clearance. I went there last year and bought myself 2 pairs of shoes at 50-60% which lasted me through 2011. This year I got myself another pair of running shoes (50% off), my first pair of cycling shoes (30% off) and new bike pedals (10% off). The only thing I paid full price for was a pair of socks that say "I ♥ Tri" and I'll admit it was more impulse than actual need :-/
I then found my way to MEC and bought myself a pair of Vibram shoes. They are for barefoot running. I am hoping some barefoot running will make me more efficient and stronger. I will still use traditional running shoes but this should be a positive addition to my training :-)
And that was our day. We rushed (safely back) to get Natasha from school and then home to make supper. Everyone is playing, though not quietly, and I am looking forward to my night of run, Grey's Anatomy, Private Practice and maybe a glass of red wine.
Tuesday, January 03, 2012
2012 Things to Do
Sometimes it is easy to get lost in the day to day of life. Going here, cleaning this, folding that and one day blends into the next.
So I decided to make a list of things to do in 2012.
1) Take the kids to a u-pick farm.
2) Ride my horse more.
3) Go hiking in the mountians.
4) Go to the Calgary zoo.
5) Go to the trapline.
6) Visit Alix monthly.
7) Go camping in the mountains.
So I decided to make a list of things to do in 2012.
1) Take the kids to a u-pick farm.
2) Ride my horse more.
3) Go hiking in the mountians.
4) Go to the Calgary zoo.
5) Go to the trapline.
6) Visit Alix monthly.
7) Go camping in the mountains.
Sunday, January 01, 2012
2011 Reflection
I saw these questions on Escaping the City's blog and thought I would reflect and answer the questions.
Did you try anything new in 2011?
Nope, not really. I did run my first half marathon.
What was the most memorable gathering you attended (or held) in 2011?
The most memorable gathering this year was, by far, Amanda & Chris's wedding. The whole time in Saskatchewan was fun. Stupid things happened. Laughs happened. Ripped shirts happened.
Did you discover a favourite song or musical artist in 2011?
Adele. I seriously love her :-)
Five things you do not want to forget from 2011?
My 1/2 marathon.
Beating Daylan at the Banff Olympic Triathlon.
Amanda & Chris's Wedding.
Holding Gido's Hand.
Our trip to see Adam in Fort McMurray.
What was your favourite gift given and/or received in 2011?
A repeating theme here but I think the greatest gift given to me was the honour of writing and delivery Gido's eulogy.
What was your funniest story from 2011?
OMG. It would probably be when my Mom sounded as though she was speaking in Native tongue and Candace and I spent a couple hours listening to a 1 min video and laughing ourselves into hysterics. I had several gut busting episodes with Candace this year.
Was there anything you were feeling nostalgic for in 2011?
There was a lot of nostalgia when Gido passed away and I am always nostalgic when I think of my grandma.
10 things you were thankful for in 2011?
In no particular order:
1. Family
2. My heating pad
3. Laughter
4. Games
5. My bike and treadmill
6. My health
7. Renewed friendships
8. Fruitful garden
9. A break from Chickens
10. My new car
Did you form any new, or strengthen any existing, relationships in 2011?
I think my relationship with my cousin Candace was strengthened. We spent a lot of time together this year. We can talk about anything, laugh over the silliest things and we both enjoy red wine.
What was something you planned to do in 2011 but didn't?
I had planned to do a 1/2 ironman race but it never happened. Really though, it is ok. A race like that needs adequate training and I just wasn't prepared enough.
What was your biggest indulgence in 2011?
I think my biggest indulgence, for myself, was my new camera lens.
What was the best meal you enjoyed in 2011?
The best meal of 2011 would have to be our lobster dinner on New Years Eve. All of us around the table, each wearing Happy New Year hats, tearing into our own lobster.
What was your favourite photo taken OF you and/or the photo you loved best that you took in 2011?
My favorite photo taken of me is probably the one with all my kids down by the tressel in Camrose. I am usually the one behind the camera and it was nice to have a picture with my darlings.
My favorite photo taken this year is harder to nail down as I take some many pictures. However, I love the picture I took of Amanda and Chris on the pier as part of their wedding day.
What was your most memorable moment with family in 2011?
I think I would have to say Gido's funeral. Some will say, FUNERAL, most memorable? But yes! Our family grieves but we also reflect and remember in a way that is not sober or depressing. We really hold each other up :-)
What was the bravest thing you did in 2011?
The bravest thing I did this year was writing and delivering Gido's euolgy. It was such an honour but also a huge responsibility.
Did you visit any place that holds special meaning to you in 2011?
Going back to the "Church on the Hill" to bury Gido. The "Church on the Hill" was a place we visited many times with Baba & Gido and is now the place they rest together.
What was your most surprising revelation in 2011?
Empathy can be as powerful as forgiveness.
Do you remember any of your goals and resolutions from 2011?
Ummm not really. One of them was probably lose weight, which I did.
What was your most memorable trip in 2011?
Mexico with Adam in December.
What was your most saddest moment in 2011?
I have two. The first one, was visiting my grandma after a lengthy absence. It was absolutely heartbreaking to see her with advancing Alzheimers. The second, was losing Gido. It was a very final goodbye for the Wizniuk family.
What phrase or saying did you pick up in 2011?
From the mouth of Tyson "No Bad Words"
What do you believe in?
This is a hard question to answer and I think it might be worth it's own blog post.
How did you celebrate your birthday in 2011?
I celebrated my birthday this year at Big Valley Jamboree.
What could you have done without in 2011?
Not really. Everything happens for a reason and is an opporunity for knowledge and growth.
What did you regret not getting to or not doing in 2011?
See above.
When did you feel your most authentic in 2011?
I felt my most authentic when I was racing. Whether it was my 1/2 marathon or triathlon, competing is in my blood.
What was the most important, or potent, lesson you learned in 2011?
You are stronger than you think.
What is your greatest wish for 2012?
My greatest wish for myself is to remain injury free during my training endevours. I wish health and happiness to everyone I love, whatever that may mean to them.
Did you try anything new in 2011?
Nope, not really. I did run my first half marathon.
What was the most memorable gathering you attended (or held) in 2011?
The most memorable gathering this year was, by far, Amanda & Chris's wedding. The whole time in Saskatchewan was fun. Stupid things happened. Laughs happened. Ripped shirts happened.
Did you discover a favourite song or musical artist in 2011?
Adele. I seriously love her :-)
Five things you do not want to forget from 2011?
My 1/2 marathon.
Beating Daylan at the Banff Olympic Triathlon.
Amanda & Chris's Wedding.
Holding Gido's Hand.
Our trip to see Adam in Fort McMurray.
What was your favourite gift given and/or received in 2011?
A repeating theme here but I think the greatest gift given to me was the honour of writing and delivery Gido's eulogy.
What was your funniest story from 2011?
OMG. It would probably be when my Mom sounded as though she was speaking in Native tongue and Candace and I spent a couple hours listening to a 1 min video and laughing ourselves into hysterics. I had several gut busting episodes with Candace this year.
Was there anything you were feeling nostalgic for in 2011?
There was a lot of nostalgia when Gido passed away and I am always nostalgic when I think of my grandma.
10 things you were thankful for in 2011?
In no particular order:
1. Family
2. My heating pad
3. Laughter
4. Games
5. My bike and treadmill
6. My health
7. Renewed friendships
8. Fruitful garden
9. A break from Chickens
10. My new car
Did you form any new, or strengthen any existing, relationships in 2011?
I think my relationship with my cousin Candace was strengthened. We spent a lot of time together this year. We can talk about anything, laugh over the silliest things and we both enjoy red wine.
What was something you planned to do in 2011 but didn't?
I had planned to do a 1/2 ironman race but it never happened. Really though, it is ok. A race like that needs adequate training and I just wasn't prepared enough.
What was your biggest indulgence in 2011?
I think my biggest indulgence, for myself, was my new camera lens.
What was the best meal you enjoyed in 2011?
The best meal of 2011 would have to be our lobster dinner on New Years Eve. All of us around the table, each wearing Happy New Year hats, tearing into our own lobster.
What was your favourite photo taken OF you and/or the photo you loved best that you took in 2011?
My favorite photo taken of me is probably the one with all my kids down by the tressel in Camrose. I am usually the one behind the camera and it was nice to have a picture with my darlings.
My favorite photo taken this year is harder to nail down as I take some many pictures. However, I love the picture I took of Amanda and Chris on the pier as part of their wedding day.
What was your most memorable moment with family in 2011?
I think I would have to say Gido's funeral. Some will say, FUNERAL, most memorable? But yes! Our family grieves but we also reflect and remember in a way that is not sober or depressing. We really hold each other up :-)
What was the bravest thing you did in 2011?
The bravest thing I did this year was writing and delivering Gido's euolgy. It was such an honour but also a huge responsibility.
Did you visit any place that holds special meaning to you in 2011?
Going back to the "Church on the Hill" to bury Gido. The "Church on the Hill" was a place we visited many times with Baba & Gido and is now the place they rest together.
What was your most surprising revelation in 2011?
Empathy can be as powerful as forgiveness.
Do you remember any of your goals and resolutions from 2011?
Ummm not really. One of them was probably lose weight, which I did.
What was your most memorable trip in 2011?
Mexico with Adam in December.
What was your most saddest moment in 2011?
I have two. The first one, was visiting my grandma after a lengthy absence. It was absolutely heartbreaking to see her with advancing Alzheimers. The second, was losing Gido. It was a very final goodbye for the Wizniuk family.
What phrase or saying did you pick up in 2011?
From the mouth of Tyson "No Bad Words"
What do you believe in?
This is a hard question to answer and I think it might be worth it's own blog post.
How did you celebrate your birthday in 2011?
I celebrated my birthday this year at Big Valley Jamboree.
What could you have done without in 2011?
Not really. Everything happens for a reason and is an opporunity for knowledge and growth.
What did you regret not getting to or not doing in 2011?
See above.
When did you feel your most authentic in 2011?
I felt my most authentic when I was racing. Whether it was my 1/2 marathon or triathlon, competing is in my blood.
What was the most important, or potent, lesson you learned in 2011?
You are stronger than you think.
What is your greatest wish for 2012?
My greatest wish for myself is to remain injury free during my training endevours. I wish health and happiness to everyone I love, whatever that may mean to them.
New Years Resolution vs Personal Plan
I'm back and not just because it is January 1, 2012 ;-)
Instead of New Year Resolutions I decided I am going to have a personal plan instead. Resolutions seem to have two outcomes; succeed or fail. A personal plan allows for changes, reflection and redirection if needed.
So you ask, what is my personal plan?
1) Continue on the athletic journey I am currently on and see it through all the seasons. The more and more I train, the more I am reminded of the athlete within. I am reminded of my dedication and determination. I am reminded of my drive and committment. I need to remember these feelings in the summer months when the garden, warm weather and beer are calling me. I need to find a balance in the summer that involves both fitness and fun.
2) Consistency with my kids. Consistency and routine are very different. I am great at keeping to routine. Following through with parenting plans, not so much. I have great ideas but none seem to make it further than a week. This does not help anyone. Kids end up confused and frustrated. I end up frustrated because things don't change. So, develop a plan, be the example and follow through.
3) Expand my mind. I want to read a couple of classic books, take a language class or maybe a distance learning course. There will be a time, sooner than later, when I will not be a stay at home mom. What will my life look like then? I am not entirely sure but it is not too early to start challenging my mind.
What will I carry from 2011-2012? I will continue to let go of things I cannot control and I will not stew over things I cannot change.
Instead of New Year Resolutions I decided I am going to have a personal plan instead. Resolutions seem to have two outcomes; succeed or fail. A personal plan allows for changes, reflection and redirection if needed.
So you ask, what is my personal plan?
1) Continue on the athletic journey I am currently on and see it through all the seasons. The more and more I train, the more I am reminded of the athlete within. I am reminded of my dedication and determination. I am reminded of my drive and committment. I need to remember these feelings in the summer months when the garden, warm weather and beer are calling me. I need to find a balance in the summer that involves both fitness and fun.
2) Consistency with my kids. Consistency and routine are very different. I am great at keeping to routine. Following through with parenting plans, not so much. I have great ideas but none seem to make it further than a week. This does not help anyone. Kids end up confused and frustrated. I end up frustrated because things don't change. So, develop a plan, be the example and follow through.
3) Expand my mind. I want to read a couple of classic books, take a language class or maybe a distance learning course. There will be a time, sooner than later, when I will not be a stay at home mom. What will my life look like then? I am not entirely sure but it is not too early to start challenging my mind.
What will I carry from 2011-2012? I will continue to let go of things I cannot control and I will not stew over things I cannot change.
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