Finally had the chance to plant new plants in the garden.  It's amazing how much work it takes to maintain a decent garden.  Factoring in all of the time and effort, it is definitely cheaper and easier to buy groceries at the store.  Somehow, the joy of getting the first fruits from a garden is soo much greater than store bought fruit. "No pain, no gain."  Try planting something of your own.  


If you don't have the outdoor space, buy a potted indoor plant.  I remember when I was in the "corporate" world, all of the sweet snacks in the world could not help me deal with the stress.   However, when I entered my office and saw my bamboo plant blooming (I know, I know, bamboo plants are low maintenance and grows like weeds), it made me feel infinitely better.  I had a co-worker with a pint size zen garden sitting on his desk, fully equipped with a rake/sand/stones.  It was like a mini-bonsai, very zen.  He was always a happy soul.

I decided to reorganize my closet.  I am usually tempted by sales/discounts.  It is amazing how many items I discovered that I have (sometimes I buy sale items and forget to wear them).  I must admit that I also found some t shirts from my college days (although I might be able to fit them, they are so worn out, I plan to use them as cleaning scraps).    I cleaned out the kids' closets as well.  I have a pile for donation/clothing swap and another pile for toys to wear (the ones that have extremely shrunk and have multiple stains).  Any additional suggestions on how to reuse/recycle old clothes?

Whenever I go to the supermarket, I usually leave unused coupons by the respective items (I feel like a coupon fairy helping someone out).  I've been giving unused coupons to random strangers behind me on the checkout aisle.  They are usually very grateful.  Just a thought for you to try and do.  It doesn't take a lot to help someone out.

I am trying to eat more organic food and have recently tried Stonyfield Farm's OIKOS greek yogurt.  It's pretty yummy!!  I added some blueberries and cereal.  It makes a pretty good breakfast.  Let me know if you've tried any new organic foods.

Ever since I got used to driving around, I enjoyed the freedom and convenience of hopping into a car and going where ever I needed to go.  However, I tried carpooling to the grocery store and it isn't that bad.  Saved on gas and had some company in selecting bargains.  I don't know how often I will do it again but I like the idea of saving gas money and being eco-friendly as well.

However, somehow the trip takes longer (maybe because of the added conversations, etc.).  Nevertheless, it was a cool experience.

I have always had a strong aversion to Latin music.  Most probably because I grew up in a "transitional" neighborhood where a lot of neighbors resorted to blasting Latin music outside their apartment building steps to distract themselves from the lack of air conditioning in their apartments.  However, I've been converted.  I love ZUMBA.  It is almost like Simon says with lotsa of dancing movements.  It just goes to show you that nothing (not even strong opinions) last forever.  I feel great even though I am not elegant nor coordinated.  It is just fun to get exercise in!  Perhaps, I've found my exercise niche (at least for now).  Three cheers for ZUMBA!!!

Of course it rained all day so I didn't get a chance to weed the garden.  Hope to do this tomorrow if it stops raining.  I decided to donate some clothes/toys instead (complete some early labor day cleaning).  Am looking forward to a nice long weekend.  


Weather permitting, we hope to do another family run/walk.

I couldn't give up meat.  I caved in during dinnertime yesterday.  I don't know if it's because of the long day or my body was craving it, but the chicken was really delicious.  I realized that giving up meat entirely even for a day is too much for me at this point and perhaps I should just limit it to one meal a day.  I usually don't eat any meat during breakfast so I just need to focus on my lunch plans.   Eating healthier is a lifelong goal so I am not beating myself up too much. 


Tomorrow I plan to weed the garden so I can have some vegetables/herbs.   Am not being too ambitious, just one or two types of plants will do.