DAY 39 - Feb 9
I carried my journal a few extra days. I’m feeling inspired and empowered. And most of all capable. You guys are the best - THANK YOU!
A quiet weekend with my love. It’s important to dedicate time to reenergizing your battery. Me time is perfect for this.
In addition, I’ve been busy on my new book. That and making cookies. And doing puzzles. LOL. Oh well, we all need our hobbies.
DAY 38 - Feb 8
And it’s Friday!
All my deadlines are turned in and today is a me day which means writing and talking to friends. And work! Cause I love my work. My clients and MS advocacy work is fulfilling, challenging and rewarding. Thank you all for an amazing 30 day challenge and for 10 years of saying #takeTHATms!
Here’s a trick I’ve been sharing with my clients and other MS patients. It’s called LifeCycle and is an app to keep track of my actions during the day. Check out this graph:
DAY 37 - Feb 7
And the sun is shining. Ahhhh. Feeling beautiful, energetic and inspired. Amazing what 30 days of affirmations and taking action steps can do to a person.
I made some queso and chips. So delish.
I use homemade chicken broth, cream cheese, jack cheese or pepper jack, worsecestrshire sauce, and roasted green chilis. #NomNom
DAY 36 - Feb 6
Wednesday. Back to work, Craven!
Wednesday’s have always been a favorite day of mine. Because Thursday is just too close to the weekend to get too much work done. Wednesday just seems to be a good day in general.
Today was filled with writing and it felt SO great!
I also got to puzzle a bit and wrapped up two puzzles in the last week.
DAY 35 - Feb 5
Tuesday. Year of the Boar! Oh how I love boars, smart, strong, tasty. LOL.
Another day off working, writing and getting it done. I’m a little antsy from not getting out and will attack that on another day. I have about five more days of alone time (family gone on vacation) where I can write uninterrupted.
It’s amazing what the calmness and quiet can accomplish. It’s so easy to feel sensory overload with MS.
Remember: Smile at the little things in life. Check out our rain gauge - or should I say the “bong bunny”. LOL.
DAY 34 - Feb 4
OK - you know how I love Mondays. Crazy but true. The newness, the challenge, getting back to work where I feel productive.
This morning made up some quick breakfast danishes for me and my love.
And then, back to work.
My affirmations continue. “Because I’m eating healthy, not procrastinating and taking care of myself, I am on my way to better health and I feel strong, capable and empowered.”
DAY 33 - Feb 3
Sunday! Ahhhhh... day to rest. Sort of. Play day for sure. Wrapped up the cookies and got them ready for delivery. I think the entire month should be celebrated with love! In fact the entire year.
DAY 32 - Feb 2
Rain all day, sitting by the fire and writing. My dear friend Barby is here for the weekend and the one thing on our agenda, is to chill. Ahhh...love days like this. Very few and far between, but that’s ok, keeps the appreciation going.
There might be some cookie baking...oh wait...there was...
DAY 32 - Feb 1
It’s first Friday of the month - that means DAR meeting. These meetings are so interesting - programs consist of historical or patriotic type information. This one was all about the American’s Creed. I doubt many people even know what the creed it.
“I believe in the United States of America as a government of the people, by the people, for the people; whose just powers are derived from the consent of the governed, a democracy in a republic, a sovereign Nation of many sovereign States; a perfect union, one and inseparable; established upon those principles of freedom, equality, justice, and humanity for which American patriots sacrificed their lives and fortunes.I therefore believe it is my duty to my country to love it, to support its Constitution, to obey its laws, to respect its flag, and to defend it against all enemies.”
–Written 1917, accepted by the United States House of Representatives on April 3, 1918.
DAY 31 - Jan 31This has been an amazing 30 days with you all!
My goal of improving my MS has been reached - but temporarily. I must work everyday to keep this improved health going.
Three things that have kept me motivated:
1. A friend to be accountable with for activities.
2. Time for myself with puzzles and non/work fun.
3. Slowing down and enjoying the beauty of my surroundings.
DAY 30 - Jan 30
Another work day and getting it done.
Having some hard times with my MS so keeping up with my mantra.
Another tip for me: Slow wins the race. Remember the tortoise and hare? Well, be the tortoise!
And enjoy your food! We sure had fun noshing...
DAY 29 - Jan 29
Work day! Big deadlines and important stuff to get done.
Dedication. Perseverance. Hard work.
Those are my mantras today. Including this affirmation:
Because I am dedicated to working hard and persevering through my MS, my goal of keeping on top of things and not procrastinating is in reach and I am feeling calm, capable and empowered.
Then had a beautiful lunch with Tim and his daughter. Such love and appreciation - I greatly enjoyed it. I had half a hamburger. The rest of the day was juicing and clean eating.
DAY 28 - Jan 28
Monday! OK,
I love Monday’s more than most. There’s something about the freshness of the week. Being able to dive into projects and feel productive.
I had a conference call today with the folks who diatribe the movie, Sgt. Will Gardner, starring Max Martini. We are hoping to have a fundraiser for Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) and gaining more publicity for this beautiful and effective film.
And then walked for 3 miles. I felt so strong in the beginning then just faltered at the end. But persevered and made it.
Thank you to Lorraine for making me accountable. If it wasn’t for making myself accountable, I probably would have found something else important to do with my time. But walking is so important! I’m just uber lazy sometimes.
Day 27 - Jan 27
My dear friend, Lorraine, had a floral display at a local bridal show. Her work is amazing! L Flora Design (message me for her number). Amazing work and styling.
DAY 26 - Jan 26
Another beautiful day in paradise.
Farmers market and a 3 mile walk. Talk about getting it done!
DAY 25 - Jan 25
What a day!
Worked hard all morning then got spoiled with a mani/pedi. Sometimes we need extra love and care to keep ourselves happy and healthy!
Made some awesome food and worked on my action items.
And then in the evening got dolled up and went to a lovely dinner at the country club for the LCFTRA - our local float for the rose parade. Beautiful and fun!
Oh man - woke up so bright eyed and bushy. Amazing! At like 530am. No problem. Took a bath and stretched. Then hit some decaf coffee and got to work. What a beautiful morning.
Thank you all for another awesome week of self-care that makes a difference!
DAY 24 - Jan 24
Feeling much better today.
Back on track with my affirmations and action steps.
Took a gentle walk today and felt amazingly strong.
Worked and wrote and brain was working well. I greatly appreciate that!
In fact, I attended a working group meeting for the Upper Los Angeles River River Tributaries. Recently appointed by Senator Portantino, this has been an exciting project. An river lover and avid fisherman, this spot is my local retreat.
I worked all morning, met deadlines, attended the meeting, then had a friend over for puzzling, dinner and a fire. Thank you Myetin for being part of my team of wellness because you have definitely made a difference in my life!
#twoextrahours #multiplesclerois #takeTHATms!
DAY 23 - Jan 23
Well, did not sleep well last night but had sweats, chills and joint pain. Whatever it was took its toll on me and I had to lay low. MS and colds/flus do not mix. Ugh. Down for the count. I had to cancel my ride with Smokey Joe today. During the night spasms my right knee overextended. So sore... so to be ginger today is necessary for my overall health.
Oh how I dont like not being able to do it all! To do everything my heart desires. Thank you, MS!
In times like this I must focus on the positive. The gratitude and appreciation in life.
Today I am working on a puzzle inside, resting and watching cooking shows. AND, I am being appreciative of the roof over my head and the food in the refridgerator. The running water and the electricity. The little things. I’ve been without and remember those times. Today, I’ll appreciate it all without having to experience it.
DAY 22 - Jan 22
Here's how the ReNew YOU thirty day challenge is working for me:
1. I start each morning reviewing my goal: Better MS Health!
2. I repeat my affirmation for the day: Because I take action, I will reach my goal and feel a more fulfilled life.
3. Each day is filled with action items I created to reach my goal. Walk, Yoga, Horses, Green juice? What am I doing to take action?
4. Accountability with friends and other challenger takers is critical for success.
5. How am I doing? Take a serious accounting of body, mind and soul. Do I need to make adjustments in my program?
6. Each day/night make notes in my MS app as to how I'm feeling, emotionally and physically. It's been impressive to see everything trending up since the challenge started.
The beautiful thing about this challenge is that it really just starts/reinvigorates healthy habits. Once the challenge is over, my habits won't change...at least in the beginning. By the end of the year they will slip and fall a bit, but this is why I do challenges every quarter. To keep me on track and healthy.
I can't thank you enough for all of your support. And also to share your stories with me. We are working together to make living with MS better.
Together, we've got this.
#takeTHATms!
Day 21 - Jan 21
Martin Luther King Day.
A man who made a very big difference in this world and shall never be forgotten. Enjoyed a very leisurely morning with WSJ crossword and coffee. Delicious morning and beautiful sunrise.
DAY 20 - Jan 20
Got to go to the beach today! Well, sort of. Went down to pick up some furniture a friend gave us. Road trips are fun, especially when you can't drive on the freeway without a driver. Fortunately the sun was shining and laughter in the air. It was a good.
DAY 19 - Jan 19
It’s Saturday! What are you all doing to say #takeTHATms?!
Today I’m heading to farmers market, spending time with my love, journaling, going to the movies and enjoying the day. Some work involved but keeping the stress down by doing what is needed and not letting things pile up.
More to come....
DAY 18 - Jan 18
Today was a rocking day. Only six hours of sleep but solid and rested. wow.
Filled with work and house chores, I made some time for myself and spent it with some friends. Smiling is necessary for a good life and my friends make me smile.
Regarding my actions steps - started juicing again at home. So easy, inexpensive and healthy. This is one of my favorite juices: spinach, celery, cucumber, lemon, cilantro, ginger, apple, dandelion greens, parsley and whatever else is in the kitchen. Apple too. Delicious and nutritious.
DAY 17 - Jan 17
Well - what a day of cooking and having fun. After getting some work done I puzzled a bit by the fire and watched some True Detective TV show. Then made some homemade chicken pot pie for my sweetie. A romantic and lovely night was had by all.
I practiced yoga at home today by the fire place. The video from it is having problems uploading but I will get it here one way or another!
Not a bad day at all: Work, me time, yoga, and healthy food. I’ll take that any day.
DAY 16 - Jan 16
Today is a NEW day! And I’m feeling psyched. Last night my friend came over and we puzzled and watched TV, had a fire and chatted. It was so wonderful. MS is such a lonely disease at times. Its crucial that we spend time with people that make us happy.
Hitting yoga in a bit, then appointments and work/writing. OH, and I did my taxes already. Talk about not procrastinating. Well, they’re almost done. I’m waiting for 1099s etc. But yay me!
Day 15 - Jan 15
Today wasn’t my best but got it done. Hit several of my action items — thank you for making me accountable!
And I slept great, which is always a bonus.
Have you guys tried Life Cycle app?
I’m not great at writing everything down so this is a great way to track my health and activities:
DAY 14 - Jan 14
Two weeks into it and realize that I am making a difference in my life. Small steps lead to positive change and its happening.
Highlights from yesterday - brrrr, it was a cold morning:
But man, did my tremors get BAD!
Check out this video — I really am trying to hold my hand still.
SO, I light of this video, definitely upping my self care.
I can feel my body getting inflamed. Literally feel it getting hot and burning inside. Some items it’s necessary to take action against the heat. I’m upping my Protandim to two a day to help the oxidative stress that seems to be happening. I also must change my diet and lifestyle - not major changes but some small improvements.
Today: Juicing, Stretching, Calming teas, CBD oil and THC roller on the neck/spasms.
“Because I am taking care of myself and soothing my nerves, my MS symptoms will soften and I will feel strong, happy and healthy again!. I will feel empowered!”
DAY 13 - Jan 13
Well, I sure had fun yesterday! we went wine tasting - haven’t been in forever. Love a good local wine. And this one is right across the street. Woot woot.
Maybe a little too much fun. After a cup of coffee chose the Chamomile tea to soothe the nerves. And boy do they need soothing.
Nothing like a day in the country to help calm and inspire. I will never tire of this view.
But tomorrow, Monday we kick back into gear. Action items for this week -
1. Setting up walks this week with friend for accountability.
2. Yoga on Wednesday
3. Shopping for juicing ingredients.
4. Plan for incorporating neck/back therapy: Core roller, stretches, CBD ointment for pain.
5. Journal writing
6. Plan to incorporate book writing time.
7. More - I know I can handle more!
8. No procrastinating - get it done.
9. Reach out to friends
10. Take time for family
Time to up this game!
DAY 12 - Jan 12
My first week has been challenging but good. My efforts have paid off to date. But now I want to up my game. SO, I’m upping my challenge and action steps.
My goal is to improve my MS health. That is happening. The cog fog is waning, and my energies are returning. So what next?
As I keep up my action items of walking, eating healthier, and living a more fulfilled life, I am feeling more capable and happy, more empowered.
In order to keep this feeling going I must maintain my efforts as well as add new ones.
As many of you know, I have several books in process. Its time to bump these up and get them done! Especially the first book. Everyone with MS can learn something from it and I’m psyched to get it going. By adding book writing to my action steps, my game is pumping up.
JAN 11
WOW. Ok, still having problems in some areas but totally making a difference in my life. Today included a road trip with friends to see friends. The highway was beautiful, cruising along highway 1 in California. Gorgeous!
Had a great stop in SB at lazy acres then on to Los Alamos to Bobs well bread bakery. All i can say is Canelli and Macaroon. Nomnom.
Yesterday was epic. 4 mile walk along our beautiful trails and then roasted a chicken from @autonomyfarms. The BEST chicken available now that B and B Country Chicken is no longer in business.
Day 10 of my ReNew YOU Challenge
Have you checked out my ReNew YOU challenge? Interesting stuff here to help you live a better life.
Click here for ReNew YOU
Click here for my daily journal 2019.
An excerpt from today - Jan 10
WOW. I cant believe I am here. And would not be here if it weren’t for all of your well wishes and support.
I walked 4 miles today! Wahooo!!
My work is paying off but still having some issues.
I was having a hard time committing to walking/exercise so my friend joins me - it makes me accountable and I need that!
But because I’m persevering, I am on my way to achieving my goal of improving my MS health by taking self-care steps of wellness.
1. Walking: Heading out for my third walk this week: builds strength and heart health.
2. Stop and smell the roses: builds appreciation and gratitude.
3. Do not procrastinate - even the dullest of chores to be done now. And it’s helping a lot. They need to be done so just do it!
4. Eating healthy. Wish I got a photo of the Sushi Burrito from Bristol Farms. Delicious! And Uber healthy. I split it with my friend.
5. Time with friends. Today with my friend on a walk. Several friends on the phone.
6. Compartmentalize my day for work. I divided up the day and two hours a day, first thing are spent on GWMS. then, writing and other gigs come into the picture. When there is ton to do, it’s important to divide and conquer.
7. Smile. Smile and pass it on. The cheapest form of joy we can spread.
8. Having moments of doubt? Repeat your affirmation. Today, my affirmation is this:
“Because I am walking, working hard and taking care of myself, I am on my way to reaching my goal of improved health and I am feeling strong, capable and empowered.”
And remember... #takeTHATms!
CLICK HERE TO read the journey...
JAN 9
Boy did I do it yesterday! Made myself accountable with a friend and walked over 3 miles. THEN went to another friends movie premiere in Hollywood. A doozy of a day but I did it because of your support and my efforts. I couldn’t have done this a month ago, or even a couple of weeks ago.
So grateful for my affirmations and action items.
I walked 3.2 miles with my friend along our beautiful trails system.
Then ate tacos at Trejos Tacos in Hollywood.
Followed by my friend, Max Martini’s movie premier of Sgt. Will Gardner.
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| Max Martini, Caroline Craven & Tim Flynn |
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| WOW! 4.7 miles total today. No wonder I’m beat. |
And, woke up with energy to work, write, journal and prepare for an easy stroll in the garden.
JAN 8
One week completed and feeling the change. But man, sometimes I just dont want to take my action steps. I mean I want the results but its amazing what excuses I can find at times to put them off. Being aware of this is just the start of making a change.
Accountability - when you finds yourself waffling over decisions and commitments to better health, get a friend involved. Set a time to meet and exercise. That’s what I’m doing today. I need a bit of a kick in my rear this week so a friend and I are going walking.
My legs feel strong and ready. The weather is cool after the rain. And now I have a friend to walk with. No excuses. Get it done, Craven, get it done!
My actions for the day:
Walk
Journal
Work
GWMS
Stroll the garden
If I see something that needs doing - do it. Get it done!
My affirmation for the day:
“Because I’m walking, not procrastinating and getting my work done, I will feel empowered, strong and capable.”
Enjoyed my stroll through the Garden and found citrus of beautiful colors: orange, lemon and lime! Hmmm...there must be some recipe I can make with all of these beauties.
ACCOUNTABILITY WORKS!
I knew this but had forgotten how powerful it can be. I grabbed a friend and we met for a walk. Went further than imagineer. 3.2 miles!
JAN 1
This is a new year and I’m ready to kick start it with a bang. So, I’m doing the challenge, as you know. This is my diary of activities and inspirations.
GOAL: Upgrade my MS health.
Action Items:
- Eating healthier: cleaner, greens, less process, low sodium, low sugar.
- Being more active/exercising over 20 minutes 3X week. Working up to 5X/week.
- Life skills: record activities, do not procrastinate, create affirmation, be accountable.
- Pay attention to the little things in life. Stop and smell the roses.
I’m already making healthier food choices. After allowing a couple of cups of decaf coffee, I switch to herbal teas. The warmth feels good this time of year. The sodium has been reduced as well as the processed foods. My body is craving green, healthy, soups, vegetables, clean eating. The holidays were glutinous but today is different. Today I’m making better choices and on my way to reach my goal of enter MS health.
I am doing chores and the tasks that usually get put off. By not procrastinating, my goals is in reach.
Taking down Christmas - that’s my activity for the day. May not get out on a walk today but tomorrow is near.
Thank you all for helping be accountable. Just knowing that I’m on my way and youre supporting me, as I am you, life is feeling manageable once again.
Driving has become a challenge with my MS. No freeways or busy streets. Sometimes even the most neighborly streets seem daunting. Today I felt different. More confident. I was taking control of my MS symptoms by making positive change. And I feel it already!
My afternoon cravings for sugar have waned. Healthy and clean eating is what my body wants. Home made split pea soup and some left over Chinese - rice and green beans.
Energy is already returning. I am making a difference because I’m taking control and making a conscious effort to change. Write it down, repeat it.
Because of my commitment to eating healthy, I am on my way to reaching my goal of better MS health. Awesome!
JAN 3
Day three - which action item am I going to focus on today? ALL of them! Well sort of.
I am not feeling like walking today. Brrrr..its cold outside. SO, I’m going to do Yoga. I like a gentle yoga class and will do this one at home using a guided instruction. Its important to have choices. My exercise choices are walking/yoga and horse back riding. Today is yoga. Maybe a walk too but lets not over commit yet. Time to keep it easy but still stay committed.
Action items for TODAY:
1. Yoga
2. CBD oil - added it this month
3. Green juice
4. Vitamins/supplements
Well, I ended up walking instead of yoga.
And made some healthy chili verde in the crock pot. Not exactly green juice but wholesome and clean.
JAN 4
Another good night of sleep. Whew!
Yesterday I walked, took care. Of business and did not procrastinate my chores. Feeling accomplished and capable. Love this feeling!
Today: Green juicing, walking and work. PLUS time to mind wander and putter in garden. Spending time in the beauty of nature provides so much enjoyment and peace.
JAN 5
Ahhhh.... Its Saturday! I was going to walk today but have not yet. Focusing my energy on housework and chores. Cleaned the refrigerator and roasting up some veggies.
Paying attention to what we eat is a key part to staying healthy and reaching our goals. Color and variety help so much with keeping food fun.
I stayed up pretty late last night - later than usual. When I woke the MS crept in and my body felt wrecked. I took a warm bath and stretched it out. Felt tons better afterward.
Looking forward to spending a couple of days with Tim. I also have some great projects to putter on for GwMS so that’s exciting.
My action steps today:
Eat healthy
Do chores
Write in journal
Take CBD oil
Take Supplements
Update symptoms in MS app.
Drink herbal tea after decaf coffee.
Stretch/Yoga
Remind myself how healthy, capable and empowered I am.
Affirmation for the day:
“Because I am going to write in my journal, do my chores and not procrastinate and becasue I am preparing and eating healthy food, I am on my way to reaching my goal of improved health!
Didn’t sleep the greatest last night until I took charge. Committee in the brain got going after a bit and kept me awake. BUT I started repeating my affirmation for the day and fell asleep in peace. It felt so great to wake up with the affirmation imprinted on my mind. I’ve got this!
I Cooked up a storm yesterday. Roasted tons of veggies which I mixed up with some pasta, calamari olives and artichoke hearts for an awesome salad.
Then I made some cheesey hearts. YUM! They dont look the prettiest but they sure are good.
Today is Sunday. One of my favorite action steps for Sunday is to be aware of the little things in life. To stop and smell the roses. To watch a bird take a batch. To capture the beauty of nature and love.
JAN 7
Beauty abounds! The moments i took yesterday to stop and smell the roses paid off. Feelin gratitude all night. And when the committee woke me up at 3:30AM, I repeated my affirmation for the night:
“Because I took the time to stop and smell the roses my anxiety lessened and I am now feeling gratitude and appreciation toward life”.
I know, these seem so small, but repeated these fafirmations make such a difference!
Today wraps up my first week and I can definitely feel a difference. BUT, I know I can do better. SO I’m going to up my action steps.
I’m going to start integrating new steps into my regime:
1. Write thank you notes and correspondence to further enhance feelings of appreciation and gratitude.
2. Call friends and reach out to people I haven’t talked to in awhile.
3. Make sure I am taking care oof myself in all areas: Phyical, mental, spiritual. Take weekly inventory.
4. Write down my daily activities in calendar - keep track of tasks in to do list.
THis is FUN! The more I can do the more capable I am feeling, despite my bad days.
1 comment:
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