During nap time yesterday I found myself daydreaming up my ideal day. It would go something like this…

I would wake up on my own time – without any alarm or kids coming to get me. I would get the chance to linger in bed for a few extra minutes and slowly make my way out of the covers to face the day. And would you look at that? I woke up at the beach! How nice!

 source

After my leisurely rising, I would throw on my workout clothes and head out the door for a workout. Call me crazy that I would still have exercise in my ideal world. Besides, I know you want to jump on the crazy train with me. I would have an amazing run where I experience an awe-inspiring conversation with God and then accomplish a new goal in my strength training – like unassisted pull-ups. Woo!

What better way to follow up a great workout than with a solid pampering session? A manicure. A pedicure. A two-hour massage. That sounds about right.

 source

I would then head down to the beach and spend the afternoon playing with my family. Watching my children laugh. Snuggling up next to my wonderful husband.

Then, I would have a little more down time whilst the chillins took perfect naps. I could read, relax, take my own nap, and do whatever my little heart desired for those couple of hours. Pure bliss.

The fabulous day would continue into the night. After kissing my wee ones and tucking them into bed, I would slip into a stunning outfit – not coincidentally in my “happy place” size. I could then venture out for a night with the love of my life.

We could dine on fine food, that would not even dare think about migrating to my caboose, and chat about all of our dreams, which we know will happen. It would all end going to bed at peace, knowing a similar day awaits.

Sounds pretty flipping fantastic, huh? Although, after awhile, I wonder if that type of existence would feel boring. In reality, life does not even come close to perfect. I know that I can only focus on making the best of each day. Recently, Lindsay @ Cotter Crunch wrote a post that I could really relate to about goals.

Like Lindsay, I don’t have very specific goals written out for each month or year. I simply strive to do my best each day. It works well for me and actually helps me to stay more focused. So, each day, in no particular order, I try my hardest…

• to show patience, compassion, and gentleness with my children so they can know my love for them and grow up feeling secure in that love
• to trust God and reflect that in my life
• to take time to pursue my passions so I can be the best version of myself
• to put in effort for the fitness/body goals I hope to achieve, while still keeping perspective on what matters most (my health)
• to show love to my husband
• to take time for other important relationships such as family and friends

If I can achieve those things, i must say it creates a pretty ideal day. I truly think we have the chance each and every day – no…each and every MOMENT – to create an ideal version of our lives. It doesn’t come in pretty postcards and a lack of problems. It comes in making the most of life. Going after dreams. Relishing our blessings. Loving others. Yea, I’ll admit a two hour massage sure could help, but why not do what it takes to create an ideal version of your day today. And then let’s start one of these…

 source

• What would be a part of your ideal day?
• What is something you strive for each day?

Downfall: Running late. It doesn’t bother me much when others run late to things, but for some reason it drives me batty when I personally am late. Even by just a few minutes, like I was for my lunch date with Lee.

Bright Side: I was late because I plowed through a productive morning with a 7 mile run, getting grocery shopping finished, and taking care of little ones.

Downfall: A mad sunburn. On one arm. Oh, the attractiveness.

Bright Side: Sitting outside for a fabulous lunch to celebrate Lee’s birthday.

I couldn’t make her birthday party last weekend since my parents were staying overnight and it was the only night Peter & I could have our date. I knew I wanted to spend some time with her for her birthday though, so we planned a lunch get together. We met at the World Peace Cafe – a vegetarian cafe with great food based off organic, locally grown products.

I ordered a grilled veggie sandwich with the sun salad on the side.

And an unsweetened raspberry iced tea to drink.

So, so, so good! The sandwich was light tasting but filling and the salad had all the necessary items (fat, fruit, nuts) with avocado, dried cranberries, and sunflower seeds. The food and, most importantly, time with a good friend certainly justify my lobster arm.

Downfall: Black Swan.

Peter & I watched Black Swan on Saturday night. I kind of hated it. I understood the underlying messages in the movie, but it all bored me and just seemed too weird. Plus, I would get the chills seeing all the ribcage action. I know that is part of the ballerina thing, but it still bothered me.

Bright Side: Having a simple, relaxing night with my husband. This little treat we picked up didn’t hurt either…

Downfall: The weekend is now over.

Bright Side: I have a busy, but good, week ahead and feel refreshed going in to it after some yoga and quality discussion yesterday in church. God showed me, for the umpteenth millionth time, that His understanding and wisdom far exceeds our own. That great things are possible when trusting in Him. That following Him always leads to a bigger, brighter side of life. Now, hopefully, that refreshed feeling will last me. For at least a day or two. 😉

• Have you seen Black Swan?
• What bright side have you encountered recently?