It is pouring rain outside. This is not a boo hoo in Phoenix, Arizona. It's more of a whoo hoo. Fortunately Neil and I got our hike in while it was only drizzling  earlier this morning. The cactus were partying out on the hill behind our house and have been growing spines like crazy. I did not know the spines bloom in red when they first come out. Or is it a side effect of all the water? They were gorgeous... in a cactus-y kind of way.

I sit on my chaise, under my blanket. The house is quiet. For now. Kyle is with Mocha, one of his respite girls and she does a good job of keeping him engaged. I am grateful for this time. Everyone should have a Mocha on a rainy Sunday. Even if just for a short time.

It is Day 27 of my 31 in 31 January yoga/sugar  challenge. All is well. In fact, all is amazing!

I have practiced yoga for 24 of the last 27 days. Practice means attend a class or do it at home. I prefer attending classes and that's what I have done for 20 of the last 27 days. The home days, I practiced using podcasts from yogadownload.com. They are first rate and a good home substitute for a class. I am usually able to drop into the yoga zone if I can escape behind a closed door. It doesn't feel as good as going to a class, but a definite shift takes place each time I practice, even at home. Yummy yoga.

I plan to double up on yoga before the end of January (COMING SOON!) for the three days I missed this month. Or I can let it spill over into February. I confess to being a little obsessive about this challenge. But in a good way.

In the sugar department, I have not eaten sweets for 27 days and it feels dang good. Just the processed stuff, fruit is ok. This was only difficult for the first 3 days. Now it is a piece of cake. Ha ha. I feel much more in control than my out of controlness of December. Hopefully, the after effect will be more mindfulness about the desserts I choose to eat. Maybe I'll wait until my birthday in mid February to indulge.

January Side Effects

A new strength. Each day I come to the yoga mat, I am stronger both mentally and physically. My resolve grows stronger. I practice no matter what. Almost. And almost is ok, good enough. Feeling good. Actually, great! Determined. It is easy to live mindlessly. Live overwhelmed. Through yoga and my resolve, my mindfulness muscles and my physical muscles have grown much stronger.

My yoga practice has expanded. More flow classes. Hot yoga: my new love. Who would have thought?! Home practice... not so bad. It is doable.

My WORD for 2013 is CHALLENGE. I've become fascinated by the idea of a monthly challenge and its power to transform. At the very least, to make life a little jucier. One day at a time. A journey. A resolve. Mindfulness. Overcoming obstacles. Staying true to intention. Creatively working through setbacks. Learning and discovery. Discipline. Strength. Challenge.

I'm a little sorry to see January come to an end. However, I have already picked a challenge for next month. Actually two. Physical and mental. Although a physical challenge is always a mental one too. It was fun to have my daughter Leah along on the yoga/sugar  challenge and my friends Kim and Laura along on the 31 in 31 yoga challenge. Camaraderie is supportive and fun.

Anyone want to play in February? I have a great idea for a challenge.  Coming soon......

Happy Sunday

"With 40 years of teaching under her belt, the Australian wonder is living proof that a lifetime’s dedication to yoga will keep you flexible as a rubber band."

She is 83 and for real. Could be me someday, ya think?