Happy Monday, Friends. We had ourselves quite the weekend over here. I’m still suffering through the time change, and if I’m being honest, I don’t love that it gets dark out earlier. So, I’m starting my Monday off a bit tired. I’ll do a whole blog on my first trimester at some point this week, but I’ve been relatively okay for the most part. One of the hardest challenges I’ve faced is to slow down. That can be easier said than done, but I’m really trying to listen to my body, while fulfilling work and social obligations at the same time. We had ourselves with fun commitments last Thursday, Friday and Saturday. So, by the time Saturday afternoon rolled around – I was flat out exhausted. So, I gave myself some grace, and made myself real comfortable on the couch. The two hour nap that followed was nothing short of glorious and everything I needed. I thought it would be fun to recap our weekend, but also do a day in the life of a work event.
A Day in the Life
I should note that the Boot Walk is an event that my team works on throughout the course of the year. While I don’t touch the event logistics, it’s an event that has been near and dear to my heart. I always choose to personally participate and raise money (you can read about past years here), but it’s also really professionally fulfilling to see everything come together on event day. By the time event day rolls around, my part of work on the event is finished, so I have the pleasure of enjoying as a participant, which is exactly what I did this year.
Saturday morning started off bright and early. We were trying to make it out of the house by 7:15, but it was more like 7:30 if I’m being honest.
Coffee was the first item on my agenda that morning. I’ve had a bit of a coffee aversion during my pregnancy, which is sad, so I’m good for about half a cup. But, it helps me avoid a caffeine headache and gives me the extra kick I need in the mornings.
I filled out my Boot Walk bib. It isn’t really a race – it’s a 1.2 mile walk to make it accessible for everyone. And, I love to read everyone’s bib when I’m out on the route. I have had several family members touched by cancer, and many friends who have been affected – that I really walk in honor of those in my life who have been affected by cancer.
I got my outfit ready! You are encouraged to wear boots, but I went with tennis shoes this time around.
I got a small breakfast ready for Aaron and I. He’s a trooper and was down to wake up early to do the walk with me! We had plans for Chick-fil-a after the walk was over.
We parked and made it over to the Top Fundraisers section. I saw my beautiful friend out taking photos!
I met up with some of my team!
I hopped into a team photo with MD Anderson’s president! Love that he was supporting the Astros (Go ‘Stros!)
And got to walking. This event is one that really reminds me about my why. I am lucky enough to have a job that I enjoy – and part of that is because I feel like I can make a tangible difference with the work that I do. This is sort of a full circle event each year. It is really a fantastic reminder about why I do what I do. It’s a perspective refiner for me.
After the event, Aaron and I grabbed some breakfast, and I sat outside to enjoy the beautiful weather with the dogs.
After my breakfast, I planted myself on the couch because I was completely exhausted. And, I just love my puppies because they love to snuggle me. They have been the real MVPs of the house (In addition to my husband) and keeping me moving and active when energy has been low this first trimester. They know something is up, and they have just been extra sweet to me.
We kicked off Boot Walk day with an Astros World Series WIN!!!!!!! Because I took a nap, I was wide awake to watch the big win. It never gets old to see the ‘Stros get to work. Proud of our home team!
Friday Fun
Our weekend wasn’t just about the Boot Walk. Aaron and I attended the Ronald McDonald House gala on Friday evening. It was their 40-year celebration of such a worthy cause. I had rented some outfits from Rent the Runway, but I opted for this staple that’s been in my closet for a couple of years. We had a great time meeting some new people and hearing more stories about the Ronald McDonald House and everything it means to those who come to Houston’s Texas Medical Center to treat their sick children!
So, even though our weekend was jam packed, it was the shot of energy that I needed to reset my perspective for the end of the year. As I’ve gotten older, I realize the importance of supporting causes through my time – my work – or sometimes our treasure – that can make an impact. What are some of the causes that motivate you? As we head into the holiday season – I’ll try to identify causes that I plan to support in one way or another, and I’ll share them. I hope it inspires you!
Thanks for reading along today. I hope you have a fabulous week. Friday is one of my favorite days in November: Nutcracker Market Day!!!!!!
