[Week 7: March 15th-21st]
* For those of you who are NEW to ‘Doing Things Differently™’ or NEW to reading this blog, may I suggest you click on, and read, the links provided in the first two paragraphs of this post? I think that might clear up any confusion!*
‘Once Upon A Time’ A Girl Named Meleah wanted to improve the ‘Quality Of Her Life’ so she started ‘Doing Things Differently™’. And then she noticed the ‘Little Changes’ she made every day had a huge impact on her life. And even though Meleah had a few ‘Setbacks‘ she kept on forging ‘Ahead’.
After completing the first four weeks of ‘Doing Things Differently™’ Meleah stepped up her game by taking things to the ‘Next Level.’ Meleah momentarily took a break to ‘Visit With An Old Friend’ but she continued ‘Doing Things Differently’.
Onward.
‘Day Thirty-Three’ of ‘Doing Things Differently’ or [D33/DTD] otherwise known as Monday, began at exactly 1:06 am. Because that’s precisely when the electricity in her house was finally restored. And after surviving a very ‘Difficult Three Days’ Meleah now knows that she is truly capable of handling just about anything. Even ‘In The Dark’. Meleah was so happy to have the power back ON in her household she spent half of the night doing ‘Jumping Jacks’ and ‘Cartwheels’.
She made all of her ‘Daily Internet Rounds’. She caught up with all of her ‘Favorite Blogs’. And then she finally slept, and, slept, and, slept, and slept, and slep, and slept. [And now the word ‘slept’ doesn’t even look [or sound] like a ‘Real Word’ anymore.] But, it was definitely ‘The Best Sleep’ Meleah has ever had. And by ‘The Best Sleep Ever’ she really means she was up until 4am battling ‘Insomnia’.
Tuesday, otherwise known as ‘Day Thirty-Four’ of ‘Doing Things Differently’ or [D34/DTD] began at 930am, when for the first time ‘In The History Of The World’, her mother woke Meleah up, by bringing her a cup of coffee. What? [Thanks Mom!]
The two of them put on their ‘Outfits’ and went ‘Outside’ and much to their surprise they found ‘The Sun Shining’. And after four days of nothing but rain, and more rain, and more rain, followed by even MORE rain, the warmth of the Sun seemed especially glorious. With iPods in place, and no coats, they walked around the block, five times in a row, for the first day, for the seventh week in a row.
And when Meleah came home, rather than smoking a cigarette, she did 50 ‘Stomach Crunches’ and 10 ‘Push-Ups’ for the first day, for the third week in a row. And she thinks she might be starting to see ‘Results’.
That evening Meleah’s ‘Favorite Uncle’ also known as ‘Uncle Rick’ came down to enjoy a Family Dinner. And they had an awesome time. For personal reasons she cannot disclose publicly, Meleah will now and FOREVER ‘Laugh Out Loud’ whenever she sees any kind of ‘Plastic Eggs’.
‘Day Thirty-Five’ of ‘Doing Things Differently’ or [D35/DTD] otherwise known as Wednesday, Meleah’s mom woke her up at 8am and with another cup of ‘Caffeinated Goodness’ and Meleah thinks she could really get used to that kind of ‘Coffee Service’.
Once again, the two of them put on their ‘Outfits’ and went ‘Outside’. And, they walked around the block, five times in a row, for the second day in a row, for the seventh week in a row, all the while basking in the sunlight.
And when Meleah came home, rather than smoking a cigarette, she did 50 ‘Stomach Crunches’ and 10 ‘Push-Ups’ for the second day in a row, for the third week in a row.
Later that afternoon Meleah was supposed to meet ‘Amy The Bartender’ for a round of golf. However due to flooding issues, sadly, the course was closed. So, Amy and Meleah planned on going to the driving range. Because Meleah really needs to ‘Get Her Swing On’ before she attempts to play golf again. Unfortunately, Amy forgot she already had a hair appointment booked that very day which interfered with their plans. So, Meleah ended up ‘Doing Her Laundry’ instead.
And later that night, ONCE AGAIN, Meleah tossed and tuned and begged for mercy from the ‘Sleep Gods’. Alas, she was unable to close her eyes and shut off her brain until somewhere after 430am.
Thursday, otherwise known as ‘Day Thirty-Six’ of ‘Doing Things Differently’ or [D36/DTD] started sharply at Noon. And Meleah was going to feel badly about sleeping so late. Except that she hadn’t slept for ‘Three Nights In A Row’ and her body REALLY needed the rest.
So Meleah put on her ‘Outfit’ and went ‘Outside’. And, she walked around the block, five times in a row, for the third day in a row, for the seventh week in a row, while the sun gleamed brightly.
It was so warm and so nice outside, after the second lap around the block, Meleah realized she probably shouldn’t have worn a sweatshirt because this chick was sweating like pig. And even though she was exhausted, when Meleah came home, rather than smoking a cigarette, she did 50 ‘Stomach Crunches’ and 10 ‘Push-Ups’ for the third day in a row, for the third week in a row.
After a much-needed shower Meleah’s was surprised to discover she ALMOST fit in her ‘Favorite Jeans’ again. And by ‘Almost’ she really means as long as she tried zipping them up with a pair of pliers.
Friday, otherwise known as ‘Day Thirty-Seven’ of ‘Doing Things Differently’ or [D37/DTD] didn’t start off very well, considering Meleah thought she had a terrible head cold. But as it turned out, she was now suffering from a ‘Severe Case Of Allergies’.
Meleah spent the ‘Rest Of The Day’ in search of the proper ‘Medication Combination’ to cure the incessant sneezing, sniffling, stuffiness that made her head feel as if it was going to explode. Sadly, the medications she took made her incredibly groggy and coupled with a ‘Four Night Stretch of Insomnia’ Meleah simply didn’t have the strength to put on her ‘Outfit’ or go ‘Outside.’
But thankfully, later that evening, she managed to get her allergies somewhat under control long enough for her to enjoy a ‘Girls Night Out.’
‘Day Thirty-Eight’ of ‘Doing Things Differently’ or [D38/DTD] otherwise known as Saturday, began at 10am. Meleah felt much better than she did the day before and she couldn’t resist the temptation of going outside to soak up the ‘Ridiculously Amazing Weather Conditions.’
So she put on a NEW ‘Outfit’ and one that included a t-shirt as opposed to a sweatshirt, and she went ‘Outside.’ And she walked around the block, five times in a row, for the fourth day, for the seventh week in a row. And when she came home, rather than smoking a cigarette, she did 50 ‘Stomach Crunches’ and 10 ‘Push-Ups’ for the fourth day, for the third week in a row.
That evening her brother Abercrombie came down for another ‘Family-Fun-Filled-Weekend’. And this time, they had electricity! So Meleah, JCH, and Abercrombie spent the night watching back-to-back movies, and laughing hysterically until 2 in the morning.
Sunday, which is normally the day Meleah sits around and ‘Does Nothing’ – suddenly became ‘Day Thirty-Nine’ of ‘Doing Things Differently’ otherwise known as [D39/DTD] at 1030 am when she happily sprung out of bed.
And even though Meleah did not put on her ‘Outfit’ and go ‘Outside’ to take her morning walk, she was VERY much ‘Doing Things Differently’ when she rummaged through her entire closet in search of ‘Appropriate Golf Attire’.
And by ‘Appropriate Golf Attire’ Meleah really means the only ‘Athletic Clothes’ that remotely fit her.
And by ‘Athletic Clothes’ she really means a ‘Socially Acceptable Sweatsuit’ she bought last year from Target.
And by ‘Socially Acceptable Sweatsuit’ Meleah really means ‘Pajamas That Just Look Like A Sweatsuit’.
But then Meleah realized that everyone who goes to her Country Club/Golf Course has already seen her in that very ‘Outfit’ [several times] and they are all fully aware that ‘Outfit’ is in fact ‘Pajamas’.
So Meleah finally settled on wearing ‘Gray Cargo Pants’ and a ‘Navy Blue Polo’.
Eventually, Meleah is SERIOUSLY going to need to invest in some ACTUAL Golf Clothes. And by Eventually, Meleah really means IMMEDIATLEY.
Meleah and ‘Amy The Bartender’ met up at KHCC to play the very ‘Game Of Golf’ they had been trying to play since Wednesday. To round out the Foursome: Meleah’s brother Abercrombie happily joined, as did a mutual friend Suzy. And they all had a GREAT time! Even if it took FOUR AND A HALF HOURS to play Nine Holes. And by Nine Holes, Meleah REALLY MEANS Six.
[See all of the Golfing photos HERE!]
And that’s a wrap!
🙂 I heart you Melz 🙂
I love YOU back!
xoxo
Dear Meleah,
It really is amazing how one change brings on another. I am enjoying this, and using it to fuel my own.
Up to 20 sit-ups and a bike ride almost every day . . . or a walk, longer every time.
Thanks for the inspiration!
Ann T.
That is AWESOME. I'm so happy for YOU!
And, I'm glad to be an inspiration!
Sounds like you are doing some pretty good things with the continued change in your lifestyle. You seem to be feeling better, and you look great.
“So Meleah finally settled on wearing ‘Gray Cargo Pants’ and a ‘Navy Blue Polo’.”
Actually, your butt (if I may be so forward) looks good in those pants. Just my opinion.
Bob G:
Thanks for the motivation! Maybe my butt looks like that from ALL THE WALKING I've been doing for seven weeks!
🙂
Ah yes the pair of pliers!!!! That only works for me if I'm laying down too……
You are seriously kicking DTD's a$$!! Keep it up girl and you better get your golf swing on, 'cause when I find my way back to Jersey we just may have to get a round or two in!! How was that for a run on sentence?? lol Keep it up your doing great!!
I weighed in at work today for our Rock Your Body and I lost 6lbs last week. Yay me! AND thats even though I screwed up and had Olive Garden for lunch one day and drank my face off yesterday. Miracles never cease. 😉
oh and thats the Rock Your Body “Contest”.
Ok, not only am I empressed with your doing things differently, your 50 stomach crunches and 10 pushups, but now I hear you PLAY GOLF too???
Go, girl!
Btw, I clicked over to your photos on flickr and thoroughly enjoyed them. When I was kid, my family belonged to a country club and my favorite thing to do, was go golfing with my dad. Now mind you, I sucked at golf, but I was excellent at driving the golf cart!!!
Wheeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee! What fun!
So glad to hear you're still doing things differently and enjoying it!
OMG! I would LOVE to play golf with you!
Holy Congrats on losing 6 pounds!
Ahahahahhaha!
🙂
'Driving The Cart' [and taking photos] is my favorite part too! Thankfully playing golf with my brother is almost like having FREE LESSONS. He rules!
Wohoo!! Way to go!! So excited that you are into golf – when you come to California we will hit the links for sure!! Keep ip the inspirational and wonderful work!!
Oh heck yes! I will be in CA for a week in July. We can/will hook up and play a round!
I wish the coffee fairy would deliver coffee to me. can I borrow your mom for a few days?
Your mom brought you coffee in bed!? You know that time I asked if I could come over and you said yes? Could I move in?
BTW, you look like a total pro on the golf course!
c'mon over!
Yes! You CAN borrow her.
But please return her quickly!
I need her to bring me coffee!
Keep going, Mel! Question: can coming here be part of your DTD plan? :p
It looks as though you're mind is starting to follow you're body. Sometimes we just need to show up whether we want to or not and eventually change will take place. You're doing great! Not many people have what it takes to make an active, positive change. It looks like you do.
Hey! If ever need or want any extra exercise you can come over and pick up dog poop with me. You can wear whatever shoes you want. 😉
You must have rock hard abs & calfs by now. Send us pics!!
I can totally relate to what you said. After 2 weeks without power due to hurricane Ike and fending for myself (hubby was in Germany) and my two kids, I learned I am a lot stronger and more capable than I ever imagined. I also appreciate air conditioning, lights, and coffee pots a lot more now!
Be the change you want to see in the world … that change in Meleah is certainly affecting her mother; who decided to start doing things differently too by waking Meleah in the morning with a cup of coffee. 🙂
I just love the way how Meleah is forgoing the cigarette after each walk with crunches and push ups.
I'm sorry about your insomnia. I experience that from time to time. Too much on my plate. Well last night it was me fretting about my physical appt. today and my the upcoming baseball season for my kids.
Golf: I'm terrible. I have a great swing, so I've been told, but the ball never does what I want it to. Damn! I go twice a year, and I just wear whatever I can find that has a collar. Like my dogs!! Kidding….
But I understand about the outfit thing. I started teaching tennis on the side and my wife said, “Are you seriously going to teach looking like that?” I looked in the mirror and I kind of agreed with her. Old sweats, ripped, stained, etc. I finally broke down and bought a tennis outfit. I still feel slightly funny wearing it, but at least I look the part.
You're on our Blogroll! Thanks. We love coming here.
Sure! You can also join ‘The Doing Things Differently™ Facebook Group Page’.
I am very excited about it. I love all the support everyone has been getting and giving. I am looking forward to welcoming New Members.
I encourage everyone to post to the wall just how THEY are DTD in their lives. This way everyone can share ideas. AND, I encourage people to comment on each other’s posts. [Even if you are not 'Facebook Friends] I am hoping the interaction between members will serve as inspiration!
Please don’t forget to ‘follow the rules’ and by ‘Rules’ I mean all Two Of Them.
1.) You MUST post on the ‘Doing Things Differently™ Group Wall’ as if you are speaking in the 3rd person.
** [However that rule DOES NOT APPLY when COMMENTING on other people's wall posts!] ***
2.) You should try to incorporate the use of the initials D.T.D. when sharing/posting on the ‘Doing Things Differently™ Group Wall’.
*Oh. And by the way, ‘ATB’ [also known as ‘Amy The Bartender’] will be fulfilling the role of ‘Chief Of Police’ with respects to ‘Doing Things Differently™’. I think that makes her new initials: ATB.COP.DTD. After all, she is the one who invented Rule #1 and Rule #2.
Remember: Dream Big, But Start Small! And most importantly, HAVE FUN ‘Doing Things Differently™‘.
Oh G! I would LOVE to pick up poop with you! Ahahahahahahaha
xoxoxoxo
yeah, my abs are looking / feeling good! And apparently [according to the comments on my golf photos on facebook] my tuchas is looking alright these days!
Beth:
TWO WEEKS? OMFG! I doubt I would have been able to handle THAT!
You're a ROCK STAR!
One of these days Meleah MIGHT end up quitting!
I do think my DTD is affecting those around me – AND – in a positive way. And that is REALLY cool!
🙂
OFTG:
YAY! I'm psyched to be on your blogroll!
I'm not very good at golf, but, I am going to stick with it, because I do have a TON of fun playing. Maybe one day I will actually be good at it.
Insomnia is killing me! But I think Ive figured out how to put that affliction to GOOD USE this week!
Maleah –
I haven't been reading you long enough (or read far enough back in your DTD … yet) to suggest. But I'm sixty-five and a curmudgeon and we do it anyway. From your comment on my retreat and the frenetic pace of your life, it seems you could build some mini-retreats (not hitting golf balls) into your DTD to rebuild your spirit (in whatever sense works for you). Maybe you already are, in which case,ignore me … I'm old.
Enjoy reading you either way … Bud aka Older Eyes
Congrats on your motivation after the crippling power outage. I would have wanted to sit around and watch TV all day.
Sounds like a great week. I'm dying to know about the plastic eggs! Will you please blog about that?
Yes, it's fun. I wish I had the time AND money to play more. And wish I was better. Oh well. Enjoy!
FYI: I may have already mentioned this to you. Sorry if I already have. My brain is fried these days and have to start writing more things down. Our blog is entitled: “The Guy's Perspective” I think I saw you had “One of The Guys” up on your sidebar. No biggie. We appreciate any sort of props, especially from YOU!! Thanks. If this is a repeat, I promise to dunk myself in very cold water!!
Good luck with your insomnia. And keep being productive!!!
Aw. Thanks Bud!
I do take personal retreats once in a while, but NOT as often as I should!
Oh I had to fight off THAT urge!
Im not too sure my uncle would appreciate that!
But, Ill find out if I'm 'allowed'.
Oh! Okay, I will change your link name in my blogroll!
My bad!
🙂
I really need to know about the plastic eggs.
Well I have finally spoken the words that will make me start to 'do things differently'. Starting tonight I will be going to bed a little earlier so I can start the day a little earlier. You see, 4:30 am is usually my bedtime – One step at a time 😉
I'm an upside-down person too! Good on ya for DTD I'm having to DTD this week coz I'm having replacemtnt windows fitted and the men start at 8.30 a.m. Aaaarrrrgghhh!
Or even “replacement”, lol!
Ahahahahhahahaah
I mean it. I really need to know. You can whisper it to me, I won't tell
anyone.
Baby Steps Babs!
After all the DTD MOTTO is: Dream Big, but Start Small!
I been trying for SEVEN weeks now to convert to daytime. But, since I can't
seem to stop having this insomnia, and since I am up all night, I end up
dragging ass all day long. And then I just feel unproductive.
So…. I think I am going DTD and stop arguing with my body. Instead I am
going to LISTEN to my body. And I am going to use those hours productively.
Starting Tonight!
Ugh. Good Luck!
ahahahahahah
I realize it will take a little while to get back to some sort of normality. As I don't work I can usually get about 7 hours sleep. I want to see more of the sunshine this summer, so I may make it by then. You are my inspiration to do this 🙂