Back in the Groove (& current loves)

 

 

…only to pick up and leave again! It’s been a short week after the unexpected time off from the flood, but I thought I’d update the blog with what’s been going on since last week as we’ve had Canada Day (a long weekend! Like the 4th of July but in Canada, says my American self ;), a weekend on the Milk River paddle boarding and work back in the gym. [Speaking of which, HAPPY 4th of JULY, American friends and family! Watch some fireworks, swim and eat a hot dog for me today!] I hope it’s been a good week for you guys and you’ve been in the groove of eating well and moving consistently!

As I mentioned, we spent the long weekend paddling on a river for a few days and met up with a group of friends from another church and their families for some good camping time. Mikey and I were able to rent the boards for 2 days, so we put on the river Sunday and took off Monday with the rest of the group. It was so tough to take pictures, so we don’t have much in the way of documentation, but it was an awesome experience! HOT hot hot in Alberta – 100 degrees where we were! – beautiful sunshine and great water to learn on (this was my first time paddle boarding).

The weekend was amazing…it was so wonderful to get away from the city and enjoy some beautiful weather after such a rainy June. Moreover, being on the water again was super fun and I loved the paddle boarding experience. Mikey and I put in 7.5 hrs paddling the first day (it was a long push!) and joined the group at a site called Poverty Rock on Sunday evening. We haven’t seen this group of people in a full year (it’s our new Canada Day weekend tradition and they have been doing it for years!) and we loved reconnecting with everyone (here’s last year’s video to get a quick glimpse at the river, area and people). As soon as we paddled up we were greeted with shouts of “Hey Mikey and Bonnie!” and were accepted right away by everyone, which was super encouraging. This group is awesome. There are kids of every age running free everywhere, parents helping out in the group, adults taking kids on adventures climbing rocks and exploring snake holes (sounds scary but don’t worry, he’s a professional! An incredible man who loves for kids to get outside and experience life!) and a spirit of encouragement and love even amidst the discipline that has to take place from time to time. 😉

In the evening, after we all cooked our meals (much of which was offered to us before we even made our own dinner!), we broke out the s’mores stuff and sat around the fire. As the kids slowly made their way to bed, the adults went around and shared their high and low point of the day (something we do on every trip) and reflected on how blessed we were to get the chance to be outside and share life together. Suddenly, we were all singing worship songs as one person started them and sat together as the sun set, praising God.

I didn’t realize how much I was lacking this community and element of worship until I felt it and participated in it on Sunday evening! What a blessing and sweet gift from God.

Getting back to Calgary and then back to work was tough, to be honest. I felt like I should have worked last week and not this week – it was tough to get back in the groove. However, after a few clients I was glad to be back, teaching class and getting people excited about burning fat and working hard and getting back into relationships that I value so much here.

We are about to take off for the Owyhee River after two good friends’ wedding Friday night and Saturday and fly out for what is always a highlight of our year on Sunday. Any prayers for the trip are greatly appreciated!

In other news, here are a few things I’m loving (a la Janetha) lately:

It’s true! I’m not afraid of carbs…I just keep an eye on how much I’m eating. 😉 Loved this little image from Spoonful of Fit!

Another thing? Burpees. All day, every day, baby! …and this article by Neil at GPP Fitness about them!

My in-laws. They have helped us with so much by providing their home, helping us get ready for our Owyhee trip, encouraging and praying for us and just being a source of genuine hospitality and grace. We love you guys! 😀

This article about how important it is (or isn’t?) to be lean by Molly Galbraith. Check it out and let me know what you think – definitely some great food for thought.

Target in Canada! Yes, it’s true. I’m loving it and this cheap and cute and long tank I got to workout in and wear for the summer below. That along with some leftover birthday Starbucks cards – so fun to not have to pay for your own coffee.

My husband. He’s a hard worker, a focused man and does so much to make things happen in our lives. I am thankful he leans on God and finds strength in God’s strength above all. Just a shout out to him because he’s wonderful and I appreciate him so much.

Any 4th of July plans to share? Or any Canada Day fun over the last weekend? Let me know about it! Cheers to my fellow Americans today and have a great rest of the week to everyone. Live well & be well,

Bonnie