Substitutes

Walking and exercise. How am I going to stay motivated? I’m sure I will, but I enjoy adding up my minutes on Spark, getting those scarlet shields, and doing Nicole Nichols’ exercise videos. I’ve been looking around MFP for a replacement way to do it, but I haven’t worked anything out yet. I could make my own chart, and I may have to if I can’t find another way.

A few years ago, a caregiving site I was on meant an enormous amount to me. It kind of fizzled out and went over to Facebook, but there were many features that disappeared - a humor section, a section just to chat. Now it’s still a valuable resource in difficult times, but I still miss the deep connections and the opportunities for fun on the old site.

While searching for replacements for the great features on Spark, I thought, “Why don’t I expand my world into the 3D realm and make new connections there?” Then that five-letter word popped into my mind - Covid. So not quite yet. 

Losses! Well, there are gains in life too. In the last half year, my 37-year-old daughter has moved back in with us. I’m getting to know her all over again and I’m loving it. I feel it’s working well for all of us. Our lives feel richer.

Comments

  1. 4A-HEALTHY-BMIAugust 10, 2021 at 9:41 AM

    I hear you on the motivation from seeing steps and walking sessions pile up. I'm letting my Garmin app give me the little "push," and that seems to be helping... Hope you find something that works for you! (hug(

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Desiree672August 11, 2021 at 6:38 AM

      I’ve started a chart on Excel. I hope that works to keep me motivated.

      Delete
    2. 4A-HEALTHY-BMIAugust 11, 2021 at 9:18 AM

      Ooh spreadsheets and charts!

      I do those too šŸ˜

      Delete
  2. OneKidsMomAugust 10, 2021 at 1:58 PM

    No place will ever be the same as Spark... and I rather suspect its reputation will grow in our minds to legendary levels, as we try out other places. Good luck finding those substitutes... I'm relying on raw Fitbit daily numbers now, and they do have badges as the steps grow, but I'm good (for now) with just getting my "health maintenance" steps in.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Desiree672August 11, 2021 at 6:37 AM

      You’re so right! Absence makes the heart grow fonder! :-)

      Delete
  3. sparkdoveseyesAugust 11, 2021 at 4:15 AM

    Well said ... we will move on and take joy in the time we did have together :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Desiree672August 11, 2021 at 6:40 AM

      I agree. I think it’s a lesson in resilience.

      Delete
  4. AnonymousAugust 12, 2021 at 8:35 AM

    There have been surprising connections made during COVID that have softened the blow of the continuing epidemic. It was so nice to hear you have reconnected with your daughter -- a real bright spot.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Desiree672August 13, 2021 at 3:47 AM

      We always had a good relationship, but it has felt like the first time to live together as adult an adult rather than parent and child, so in a way I am seeing her through new eyes - less responsibility and more clarity.

      Delete
  5. KENDRACARROLLAugust 13, 2021 at 11:36 PM

    Walking and exercise - I've been slacking - it's been hot. My company is starting a new walking challenge on September 1, I'll be taking this 10,000 steps a day thing more seriously again then.
    Best wishes.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Desiree672August 14, 2021 at 7:58 AM

      The walking challenge sounds great. I’ve always found 10,000 steps is quite a lot. A great way to keep healthy.
      I hope you have cooler days soon.

      Delete
  6. AnonymousAugust 15, 2021 at 6:34 PM

    It's heart warming to hear that your daughter being back in the house is enriching your lives. Good luck finding new ways to support your efforts. I'm a spread sheet gal. ;-) When I had the exercise capacity, I found those scarlet badges motivating as well. Funny how those little virtual awards can motivate one in building healthy habits. ~ JEANKNEE

    ReplyDelete
  7. Desiree672August 17, 2021 at 8:58 PM

    Yes, it is funny how motivating the badges are. I hope I can motivate myself without them! Second to all the wonderful friends, I’m going to miss them.

    ReplyDelete
  8. BarbAugust 20, 2021 at 3:17 PM

    Yes, Covid does modify the choices we can make, but eventually we'll find other things that will motivate us. It's not easy. I loved the litle 'trinkets" from Sparks but now, time to change my reward currency.

    Good luck!

    ReplyDelete

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