yes, this is the real me. usually with my kids and 75% of the time, with a messy pony tail on the top of my head.

this week has been an interesting week for me, one of realizing that every now and then i have to have a little 'me' time. lately, i feel like i've really let myself go. of course, over the past years, the focus has been more on the kids than me (that's the way it should be) but when i added the business to the mix, well...i left no time for me. for example, the only time i would get my hair done was when i just couldn't stand it anymore. then i'd go to my regular salon and basically beg someone--anyone--to cut my hair. well, i don't know what got into me but the other day i decided to have some 'me' time. i actually sat down for a cut and highlights (it's been over a year since i had highlights). what a treat that was. and amazing what a few highlights can do for a person. instantly i felt better and thought, wow, i need to take care of myself more often.

well...today...
i went for another treat--a pedicure, something i've only done two other times in my life. i also signed our family up for a membership at the YMCA. most people look at me and say, "you don't need to lose weight" and while i disagree and say, "i need to lose the five pounds that i've recently gained" (probably from sitting at the computer way too much), it's much more than that. it's about getting in shape. and i'm the kind of person that believes that working out is so much more than getting your body in shape; it's therapeutic for the mind and the soul. so, i guess i'm writing this post to remind myself and others--don't forget your 'me time'. don't forget to take care of yourself!

i also wanted to take a minute to thank dina for allowing me to use this photo in my blog. who's dina? she's a wonderful friend, photographer, wife and mother. she's talented, kind, intelligent and beautiful (inside and out). dina is truly one of the most amazing inspirational people i know. so thank you dina...thank you for allowing me to use this photo (and for all the other photos) and for being such an awesome friend.