I totally get doing things yourself, but I like my stuff put together already.  I don't mind paying a little extra.  With the current pandemic, I find that with many companies, assembly service is not available.  They just want to leave it on the curb! Sometimes they won't even ring the doorbell to let you know your package was delivered.   I had to pull out the tools and with a little help from my dog, we did it. Ok, I may have also had a few glasses of wine too. LOL 

So what did I buy?
I love working out.  I walk almost every day but some times the weather does not cooperate.  I know that my leg strength is important for keeping my knees strong to carry my curvy figure. Squats is one way to help build and protect my leg muscles, but I find doing them challenging - the whole no-leaning thing.  Well, I feel like I cannot master doing a squat correctly no matter how hard I try.  But wait... this tiny machine is perfect. It guides you down for the perfect squat.  All you do is push with the legs.  You can make it a full body workout to by pulling with the arms. There are also resistance bands to allow you to build your strength gradually. I am in love with the range of motion of this machine!

Two Month Update
This post was long overdue. I purchased my squat machine in July and I have to say that it has been an awesome experience. I feel stronger, more confident, and motivated to get on it.  I use it about 3-4 times per week combined with a simple cardio dance routine.
When you find something that works, embrace it and share it.  I no longer feel like squats are difficult.  The guided assistance of this machine makes doing squats literally as easy as pie! 
Comment below if you are interested in getting one.  And remember... Keep your chin up, show yourself love, and do those squats correctly. Hugs, Carla

Be Aware Of Your Internal Signs
We all lead stressful lives. At some point, you have to slow down and take a step back.  Whether you are worried about your kids or a little short on a bill or maybe your friend said something you did not like, there is always something to fret about in the daily life of a woman.  Despite what is going on in our lives, we are expected to still meet our responsibilities and step up to our roles as mom, leader, confidant, guider, and coordinator.  But what happens when you realize there is overload?  How does a woman cope when the pressure is on max?  One indicator of meeting my breaking point is a noticeable increase in anxiety.  When I get nervous or start to become short tempered with those around me, those are my internal signs that I need to take a break - I need to step away.  There are so many factors that happen beyond your control.  I have lost my Father, then Mother, then Brother-in-law, then Sister, then another Sister.  I know what being on the verge of mental breakdown feels like. Grief is no joke. 

1.  Talk to someone. Do not let negativity or what you are worrying about brew.  It is so much easier to talk with a family member or close friend about your problem, than to let it snowball. If you are in a disagreement with a spouse or significant other - talk to them about it. 
2. Pray! Rely on your Faith during your time of need. Some things you may not want to talk about with a person.  Always take your worries to God for He alone is all powerful and can resolve it.
3. Spend time with yourself.  Take a break when you need to. Go get your nails done or have some ice cream.  You can also go on an overnight trip. Plan a mini vacation where you can relax and recover. 
4. Seek professional help.  There seems to be a stereotype that goes along with therapy, but you have to ignore it. Talking with a non-biased person confidentially can go a long way. Keep in mind, that most healthcare plans cover counseling services.

I hope this blog post helps you with whatever you are going through.  Know that we all have good days and bad days - it's how you work through them that matters.  Comment below with how you cope with life's punches. I would love to see what you do. 
Be Blessed today and always, Carla