I’ve thought long and hard for the past couple of months about what MY WORD for 2011 would be.
A million words have ran through my head depending on what struggle or triumph I was experiencing.
Hurt, Jubilation, Happiness, Trust, Risk, Sadness, Anger, Indifference, Resolve.
I moved into my new place this weekend and realized that all of this confusion and fear was over. One word struck out to me.
Courage.
Courage is my word of the year.
My life is completely different. Different people, different faces, different routines, and a new place to live.
Ya know what else is different? ME. I feel at peace. I feel like myself…and most of all, I feel HAPPY.
As Caitlin put it, I had fallen into habits…the world took me in, spit me out and my horizons were shortened and dreams were downsize. The courage it took to make changes in my life allowed me to arrive at this place. Fear of regret and fear of the unknown paralyzed me for the latter part of 2010. 2011 hit and I knew that it was time to take charge.
No Day But Today. Forget regret or life is yours to miss.
You can have it all, why settle for less?
There came a day when the risk of staying in the relationship was greater than the risk it took to face the unknown. That day will forever be a life changing moment of my life.
I’m ready to make the life I see for myself. I’m ready to do the things I’ve always wanted, see the places I’ve always wanted, and be with someone who shares that with me.
I was terrified of moving day for a long time. Scared that it would be the hardest day of my life. However, the opposite occurred. It signaled the start of a new chapter. I’m moved into my apartment..and I did it all on my own. No help, just me.
There are so many wonderful developments in my life right now. Nursing school, wonderful people, and general hope and excitement for the future. I can’t wait to share it with you.
Now, if you’ll excuse me..I have a bubble bath, candles, and Adele calling my name.
Following that, I have a date with some self tanner. These pasty legs need some color.
After that, I plan on crashing into my lovely bed.
Writing this post makes me realize how much I miss blogging. I’m happy to be back to blogging.
“Healthy living” has also fallen by the wayside the past few months. I had other things on my mind. As I feel more and more myself, I feel the need for more activity, more movement, more delicious foods…so be ready for more blogging about that.
I’ve got a 9 miler planned for tomorrow so I will see you then!
Happy Saturday night!
What’s your word for 2011?
If you do self tanning, then what’s your favorite brand?
{ 57 comments… read them below or add one }
Happiness is knowing my daugher is happy:) You go girl!!! Live Life, Love Life and be yourself!!!
Wonderful post! Just what a i need! My word for 2011 is ME! This year is about me, changing my life, changing this old me, changing into the brittany i’ve always dreamed about and have always wanted to be. This life is pretty amazing, we can be anything we want to! Let’s just do that and achieve this dream
Brittany recently posted..Photo blog
WE CAN! We can be anything we want to be. Such a great feeling to know that, isn’t it?
So ironic that I literally JUST finished watching “RENT” and then you wrote the “no day but today” line. It really is a truth that so often we forget. We get sucked in, spit out and can be too quick to fall into habits that shorten our horizons and downsize our dreams. The most amazing thing about your twenties? Getting to decide what you want, how you want it and who you want to spend your life with. Your journey, right HERE, right NOW, is a testament to that. I am so freaking proud of you, friend. You enjoy that bubble bath and sing Adele til your lungs ache. You deserve it.
Caitlin recently posted..Behind the Scenes
“Shortern our horizons and downsize our dreams”—-what a beautiful way of putting it.
I love you so much. That is the best thing about our 20′s. Making OUR decisions and choosing what we want our life to be. I’m glad we both stuck up for ourselves and what we want. We are good people.
Congrats! I’m so happy for you. It took a lot of courage to get where you are now and it all paid off. Never forget how strong you are!
I don’t use any self tanners. I’d LOVE to, but I haven’t found one that doesn’t make me stink. I can handle it ok, but husband hates me when I wear it. hehe
Congrats on getting into Nursing School…. you will love it! I’m in nursing school right now and I am so happy I chose this to be my career. I honestly think it is the job for everyone because there are so many areas to go into and so many choices about what specialty you want to work in. Patient care is so rewarding if you have the passion for helping others like i do
Nursing school is tough, but not miserable. I would actually say it’s a lot of fun, besides the homework. You have a very exciting career ahead of you! 
Patient care is one of the main reasons I chose Nursing over other medical professions. I think that nurses are so critical in being advocates for the patients and really getting to know them and understand them in their struggles. Thanks for stopping by!!
You certainly are courageous, Lisa! I can’t tell you how happy I am for you to feel this happiness and freedom! The sky is the limit for you, girl!
My word for 2011 is: REBIRTH. I spent a good deal of time today in prayer and that word actually came to me and I’ve been saying it as sort of a “mantra”, if you will, all day long. I wish I could blog about why I chose REBIRTH as my word for 2011, but unlike you, I’m not feeling very courageous to open up and do so:(
My life is SO incredibly blessed and wonderful and not much has changed on the outside since I last blogged about my competition results, yet at the same time it feels like EVERYTHING changed on the inside (my spirit and self-image) and unfortunately most of it wasn’t so giddy, empowering and uplifting…hence, the reason I haven’t been blogging:( Hubby says I *should* blog, when I’m ready, about what I call the “aftermath” of competing and reaching my goals and how it affected my self image/self worth, but I just don’t feel ready to do that yet. Again, I’m lacking what you so obviously have– COURAGE.
Anyway, here’s to courage and rebirth in 2011:) Oh, and I use St. Tropez Bronzing Mousse as a self-tanner. LOVE that stuff!
Talia @ Texas Gunslinger recently posted..Competition Day Re-cap
I had wondered where and why you left. Unfortunately, I thought it was the aftermath of competing and what it possibly did to your spirit. Just know that you aren’t alone in the aftermath and rebound of competing. Granted, I’ve never competed but I’t have “fake comp” dates in mind and dieted and worked out like I was going to…and it’s so easy to fall into that when you are done. YOU AREN’T ALONE. When you feel ready to blog again, you will have so much outpouring of support and I guarantee you it will help.
Rebirth is such a great word. And I love it as your mantra. I have been thinking a lot about personal mantras lately.
We’re so on the same page…. well maybe a few months delay but still, know what this is like and it makes me so happy to read. Good luck on your first few days on your own! I think it will be amazing!
Hey Lisa! I just stumbled upon your blog a couple of days ago.
First and foremost, congratulations on taking the brave step towards finding your own happiness. That’s something a lot of people are afraid to do.
Second, I just wanted to pop in and say hello because I am overjoyed to find another healthy living blogger in OK! I read a ton of blogs but I feel like they’re all in the northeastern part of the country. It’s exciting to have someone to relate to! I’m a newbie blogger who is graduating from OU in May so we have a lot in common. So glad to have found your blog
Diana,
Not only are you an Okie–but you are a Sooner too! I LOVE THAT! We can most definitely be friends now
Off to check your blog. There are a few Okie bloggers–check out lowandbeholdblog.com. She’s a Sooner alum as well! We actually became real life friends after finding each other’s blog!
Lisa, you have showed so much courage, inspiration, and lightness (hmm, trying to think how to describe how you seem happy, confident and bubbly). I would never have been able to pick up on some serious changes going on in your life because you showed such determination in seeing the new adventures and opportunities ahead of you, rather than the things you were leaving behind! I know you will achieve great things, and you will have someone right next to you cheering you on and holding you up high! Cannot wait to hear about all of these great new things you will experience!! PS> I so need a tan, so let me know how that stuff makes out…I am like a snowman over here!
Groff’s Girl recently posted..My First 5K!!!!
Yeah, take that courage and live it up! You are such a strong woman!!
I think my word right now is…strength. it gets me through everything that’s hard or hurts.
And I’m lucky enough to not have to use self tanner; the props of living in SoCal and working out in the field! Instant tan!
Melissa @ TryingToHeal recently posted..Crazy Hills and Family
i love your sheets/comforter set!
also, when you commented on my post i figured it out that you TOTALLY remind me in looks of january jones! so pretty!
self tanner just turns me orange and has NO EFFECT on my feet so i look entirely weird.
carin recently posted..things that happened yesterday
I self tan like a boss. I use Jergens during the summer because I’m outside a lot and don’t need much and during the winter I use this stuff that I bought from a tanning salon called Mystic Tan Sunless Spray. It’s awesome!
I love the courage word! You go!
MelissaNibbles recently posted..Its OK!
I bounce around when it comes to self-tanners, but I’m currently using Jergens.
Well, I will be in a few months. It’s still freezing cold here in New England, so I’m just white like a marshmellow right now. 
Nicole recently posted..Sunday Fixin’s- Nicole’s Week Off
Glad to hear you’re settling in and happy! Happiness truly is key
chelsey @ clean eating chelsey recently posted..when hunger strikes
That is a great word for your year! Love it.
I’m using some kind of gradual self tanning lotion but I don’t know that it’s working. My legs are pretty much transparent these days, haha.
Yay 9 miles!!
Kacy recently posted..Runfessions
Courage is just an amazing word. You are so strong, girl! You can do anything!
So happy to hear life is going so well for you now
. Haven’t figured my word out yet, but I’m going to give it some thought!
Heather recently posted..Crunchy Brownies
Courage is an awesome word.
I don’t have one yet…but you’ve got me thinkin’ about it now!
I also don’t use self-tanner, but I need to… I used it way back in 7th grade, when it was kinda new and totally made my legs look orange (my friend at track practice told me I had raw hot dog legs). I know it’s been totally improved since then!
Lisa recently posted..A Bigger Pie and Different Grass
Strength
Your recent posts have been so great–I can definitely relate…
I love this post, Lisa! It’s so great to read that you’re in such a genuinely happy place
It’s such an awesome feeling to know that the world is at your fingertips and you can do ANYTHING you can dream of. Life’s too short to not be happy 
Colleen @ The Lunchbox Diaries recently posted..Home-Cooked Heaven
Love this!
What a great word!
I think my word of the year is perseverance. Perseverance through injuries, my upcoming marathon training, and getting through the remaining semester and a half of undergrad in a major that I am really not passionate about anymore.
Katy (The Singing Runner) recently posted..Back to Reality and Looking to the Future
It takes A LOT of courage to risk everything for happiness. You are awesome.
My favorite tanning lotion is by far Jergens Natural Glow, it works really well. I buy the firming one, no idea if that part works but it’s the same price so I figure it might!
Katie @ peacebeme recently posted..Scouting-trip update
I have no idea what my word for 2011 would be. SO many choices, but maybe if I had to choose one it would be CHANGE. I just moved to a new city and I’m changing a lot in my life. I’m glad you are back to blogging!
When I self tanned I used Sublime, and I loved it! I also used the jergens gradual self-tanning lotions
Salah (My Healthiest Lifestyle) recently posted..Vegeliscious
I self tan in the summer time with a gradual tanner and love Aveeno brand. Wayyy better than burning my skin in the sun.
kristi (sweet cheeks) recently posted..Gettin’ big with the meatheads
I love your word for 2011! It’s clear you have a lot of courage, and it sounds like 2011 will be an exciting year for you
I think my word for 2011 would be strength… I’m running distances that I never thought were possible for me and I feel strong. Good luck on your 9 miler!
Jessica recently posted..Friday Night Fun 10 Miles
I love your new word!!!
It has taken you courage to end a relationship, start nursing school, and move!
And Im sure we only know the 1/2 of it!
I am sure you are very proud of yourself! you are doing great
Damn straight your courageous! I think its also beyond the things you’ve mentioned too. Its pretty courageous of you to be so open and honest about your struggles on your blog.
As far as “healthy living” is concerned, I think the term “healthy” is so vague. What’s healthy for one person might be dangerous for another. As I said once in my blog, I’m hydra “living” blogger.
Oh right, my word! I think mine is acceptance.
Eden recently posted..The “Disney” Disorder
I think my word is going to be strength:)
I like your word- you seem to be doing well and are full of courage!
Jess@atasteofconfidence recently posted..ABCs of me
This is my first time commenting, but I’ve been reading for awhile now. I love the tone of this post – so positive, upbeat, confident, and yes, courageous. What you’re doing right now is not easy but you’re DOING it and that’s all that matters. I’m proud of you!
Jess recently posted..Facing “fear-” boot camp-style
I’ve seen you around EVERYWHERE on all of my faovorite blogs, so I’m glad that you said hi
Hope you had a good run. I love the word “courage.” It has such incredible impact. I definitely think that’s the perfect word for you!
Heather (Where’s the Beach) recently posted..Half Marthon Eve Dinner & Race Day Recap
Great Post! I’m so happy you are feeling good about all of this. I think you are going to inspire many people. Courage is the perfect word for you…I’m excited for you and this new journey!
Lindsey @ Cardio Pizza recently posted..Total Body Workout- Giant Sets
what a great post!
i’m so glad you’re loving your new apartment and new life!
i think my word for 2011 is change – there are a lot of changes happening this year – all changes that i’m so so so excited about! i think this is going to be one of the best years of my life!
One of my favorite quotes: The only thing certain in life is change.
My word for 2011 is FAITH.
I love that you choose, courage. That is a good one
Caitlin recently posted..Love & Other Drugs
Faith is a great one as well. I know that I had to have faith–faith that everything will work out like it should.
I am so incredibly happy for you. And PROUD! Your life is just BEGINNING!
Good luck on the 9-miler, I have no doubt you’ll rock it
Fav self tanner is Nivea or Jergens (but jergens has that funk tanning scent, haha)
Courage is definitely your word this year, lady! You’ve had to make some big decisions and bold choices that I don’t necessarily envy, but am incredibly proud of you for making.
Never commented, but been following your site for a few weeks after finding it through Peanut Butter Fingers–but this post really resonated with me. I actually have the word “courage” tattooed on my inner left wrist. My dad always taught and lectured me about being courageous through all adversity, and after battling sexual abuse and a subsequent eating disorder my freshman year of college, it was the word that was repeated in my head over and over again to get through the tough times. An awesome, awesome word…congrats on getting into nursing school as well- I’m waiting to hear back from my OT interviews so I understand the stress!
Wow, that’s pretty powerful. Sounds like the word courage is your personal mantra of sorts. That’s amazing you’ve had the power, strength, and COURAGE to overcome what you have.
Is OT occupational therapy??
It’s definitely my power word.. I love my tattoo and have been able to share my story with many people so it’s a win win
And yes, OT=Occupational Therapy. I’m at Texas Tech right now, and we’ll see where I end up once I finish my undergrad in May!
I love this post! My word is BALANCE – to help me remember to balance fun, studying, health, indulging, etc. As for self tanning, I LOVE the Loreal sublime bronze tanning wipes! Seems kinda weird but they are so easy to use, and they give you a really natural-looking tan. Plus they last almost 2 weeks!
Hope you’re having a good sunday!
Jamie @ getalivingsense recently posted..Austin <3
You, my dear, are INCREDIBLE! I am sooo proud of you and so excited for this brand new journey you are embarking on. You have your *entire* life ahead of you and at your fingertips… and you get to direct how it goes! Courage is a great word for you, and I think *empowered* is as well!
Allison @ Happy Tales recently posted..New Mileage Territory–The Big 1 7
HEY LOVE!!
wowow- I can tell you have grown soo much as a person over the past months! It is SO BEAUTIFUL. you are so awesome girl, ive always had so much respect for you. your comment meant so much to me. gah, i love that you are learning so much about life right now (cause i am too!) keep shining. you really have SO much to offer this world
katie recently posted..What I have been up to in pictures!
Can’t wait for more blogging from you Lisa! This is your year!!
Laura recently posted..Best-ever Birthday Dinner
my word for 2011 is EXCITEMENT!
i’m excited for you too 
love your bed!
christina recently posted..The Ugly and The Pretty – Photo Day 13
Courage is a great word for you…and for anyone who genuinely opens up on a public space like a blog. Keep it up! My word for this year…wow. I’m going to be hiking the Pacific Crest Trail starting in April, and finishing in September…Mexico to Canada…so maybe my word would be “insane?” hahaha…Honestly, maybe “belief.” So many things have come together to make the hike a reality, and I had to really believe…in myself, in God, in others, in ‘the dream’…and also when I’m on the trail, there will be some discouraging moments. Belief is my word.
Dug
http://thf2.wordpress.com
Dug recently posted..Of Preparations and Possibilities
Wow what a journey! I clicked over at your blog. I plan on looking at it a little more indepth–I’d love to hear about that!
Congratulations, Lisa! You are an amazing woman!
I love this. My word of the year is FEARLESS. I’m not worrying about the what ifs. If something inspires me, I’m doing it. If I want to go on 3 vacations this year, I’m doing it (1 down, 1 is in planning process, & 3rd to come…).
Um, yeah. Candles, bubble bath & ADELE?! That’s a fantastic night!!!!! WOW!
xo
Mindy
Mindy@FindingSilverLinings recently posted..Curtain Call
I think “courage” could easily be my word for the year, too! Lots of new things happening that would have scared the crap out of me a year or two ago.
As for self-tanner, I think I’ve tried EVERY single kind out there, and my favorite so far is L’OREAL Sublime Bronze One Day Tinted Gel. Slap on some gloves, squirt two pumps of gel and one pump of regular lotion into your palm, mix together and apply! It looks really natural, and you can layer it to reach your desired color. Plus, it washes off in the shower. It’s great for a quick fix for a night out.
Carly recently posted..A Soupy Day Recipe- Broccoli and Asparagus Soup and Whole Wheat Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cookies
You know I love this since I had this image on my blog! It’s a great quote and one that really spoke to me. My word of the year is motion. It’s a great way for me to focus on moving forward and accomplishing goals.
Dorry recently posted..Life’s a…