Lately, I’ve been struggling to get excited about working out. My workouts have lost their zest, I’ve only been making it to the gym about 4 times per week, and each time I go, I have to force myself to go.
These ebbs and flows in any relationship and/or interest/activity are normal for me and I suspect for everyone. I go through periods where I can’t wait until my next workout and then there are other times where I dread each workout over a span of several days or weeks.
I think a lot of it – for me – has to do with the weather. We enjoyed some fabulous 70-80 degree days earlier this week and month and I was able to take my running outside (which I love). Now, we’re back in winter weather mode (including snow!) and I think that threw me into a bit of a workout slump.
Today, though, I ran harder than I have in awhile and squeezed in a quick lifting session after that run, and I felt great. I always feel great after workouts, but I haven’t had a hard workout quite like this one in awhile. Hopefully it will be enough to pull me out of this workout funk and back into the game!
On to the links!
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Tips for Saving Money on Your Energy Bills
“If you’ve ever tried to save money on energy bills, you’re probably familiar with donning 17 layers of clothing in the winter months and next-to-nothing in the summer months. This may be an effective technique, but it’s not exactly fun or comfortable. Luckily, there are other ways you can save money while wearing a normal amount of clothing.” – by me at the Lending Tree Blog
5 Steps To Get Out Of A Funk, Fast
“Do 30 wild jumping jacks. The trick is to raise your heartbeat, which is scientifically proven to trigger a positive feeling in the body. (Bonus happy points if you do this at work. Next to your cubicle. Right now.)” – by Melissa at Peace and Projects
(Amber’s note: I LOVE this list of 5 quick things to do to brighten your mood any day of the week.)
Why, Yes, I Do Accept Credit Card!
“…this little piece of technology is incredible – totally changes the game. Having this in your pocket means you can literally accept money ANYWHERE and ANYTIME. You no longer need one of those clunky small business credit card machines – or even have to BE a small business!” – by J. Money at Budgets Are Sexy
(Amber’s Note: I actually used one of these gadgets this week! I paid the freelance hairstylist that is doing my hair for the wedding over her phone. Very cool!)
It’s Not You, Vegetables – It’s Me
“…when I started this blog, I would openly say, “I hate vegetables." But over time, I learned that it’s not the vegetables’ fault – it was just how I was preparing them. I was selecting the ‘usual suspects’ – broccoli and green beans – and preparing them in the blandest way possible. If you shudder at the thought of veg, never fear! Here are easy ways that I’ve learned to make your veggies yummy. And it’s true – your taste buds really do mature and change, so if you hated something before, try again.” – by Caitlin at Healthy Tipping Point
(Amber’s Note: A great list of 10 ways to prepare veggies!)






Honestly, getting to the gym four times a week is a lot more than I get to the gym
I’d say that if you get decent workouts in then, you wouldn’t even need to go more times!