Author Archives: yearoffunsarah

Mar 27 2013
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Uncategorized

Day 184: Packing Challenge

Ever since we decided to go to multiple cities in Europe for our anniversary trip, I have been talking a big talk about “traveling light.” I’m big on packing. I love to be organized. I love thinking about what I’ll wear, on what day and why. I like going over my morning routine in my head, mentally checking off the list of toiletries and beautification products I need. Usually this results in quite a lot of stuff for trips.

The packing challenge of 2013-to do 10 nights in Europe with only a carry on suitcase-requires the same level of detail with a twist. What can I go without? What can I wear (gasp) more than once (if not multiple times)?

The answer, by the way, is layers; more tanks or tees, less long-sleeve collar shirts, and very few (maybe two) sweaters. I’m also bringing one dress, one nice shirt, one extra pair of jeans and the “bare minimum” version of that morning routine. I am proud of this. I’ll be one of those travelers with just the bag they need. No excess. No mess. I’m packed. I’m ready to go. I’m thrilled!

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Mar 26 2013
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Chicago Specific Fun, Food/Drink Fun, Fun for Couples, Holiday Fun

Day 183: E B-Day

It’s Elphaba’s birthday! She is two years old. The hubs and I did not really celebrate her first birthday, so we decided to get her a special treat this year. I went to Dogaholics which is a great independent dog store on Southport. They have fresh dog food, interesting toys and a doggie bakery counter. (At their other location just down the street, they offer grooming, daycare and boarding services which is how I first heard of them).

When I told the woman at the bakery counter that it was my dog’s birthday, she excitedly told me I get a discount on raw hides (I chose a braided beef flavored one) and some free birthday cookies. They also offer cakes that are super adorable and probably better suited for a whole dog party. Instead, I bought an extra cupcake cookie.

Elphie was crazy excited getting her treats. She knew the bag was for her the minute I walked in the door. Even though she had no idea what was happening or why we were giving her such delicious treats, I’m pretty sure she knew she was (IS) loved. She may not be the best behaved, she may be a little crazy, but she is the best goofy sweet furry little companion a girl could want.

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Mar 25 2013
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Rheumatoid Arthritis

Day 182: Halfway

At day 182, I’m feeling proud, intimidated, sheepish and excited.

Proud to have gotten this far, to have consistently said, “yes I will continue this project” every time I have wanted to stop, and to have faced my challenges head on.

Intimidated by the next 183 days, by how many fun things I need to come up with, by what will happen on day 365.

Sheepish about how much I’ve revealed about myself and about those days when I did not reveal anything.

Excited about finishing such a large project. Other than relationships or school, I’m not sure I’ve spent this much effort or time on anything.

Thank you for taking this journey with me so far, for your fun ideas and, most of all, for your encouraging words. Here’s to the second half of the Year of Fun!

Mar 24 2013
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Food/Drink Fun, Friends and Family, Guilty Pleasures

Day 181: Many Guilty Pleasures Sunday

Several guilty pleasures today to make up for all the Sundays I’ve been skipping.

Trader Joe’s after water workout for groceries and sea salt brownie bites;

Reading plays all afternoon with FX movies on in the background;

BW3s brought to my home by friends for Illinois basketball (I don’t understand why Iowa is not part of the Madness. Are they terrible?);

Baby faces, screams and snuggles.

 

Mar 23 2013
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Chicago Specific Fun, Food/Drink Fun, Friends and Family, Fun for Couples, Nightlife, Rheumatoid Arthritis

Day 180: Party Invite

The hubs and I had this idea to throw a party to raise money for the Chicago Arthritis Walk. I’m still a ways away from my goal of raising $3,000 ($1,000 for every mile I will walk) so we thought the most appropriate thing would be to have a flip cup tournament where teams pay an entrance fee to compete and all the money goes towards my arthritis walk team.

Four person teams with an $80 entrance fee. That’s a $20 donation per person for unlimited food/drink/flip cup fun. OR donate $10 and get a red solo cup for unlimited food/drink/flip cup watching.

I used pingg to make the invites and am now just waiting for rsvps to roll in. All are invited to our rooftop with a view of the Chicago skyline to flip some cup!

http://event.pingg.com/yearoffun

OR if you can’t make it to the party, consider walking with us or donating to the team page.

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