moving Archives - My Inner Shakti

A Week’s Worth of Happenings

Well hello there! While I can’t say that my blogging break was unintentional, I missed this space and am glad to be back!

It’s been quite a week for sure. We moved (!), we went to a Cubs game, and we attended a newborn CPR class. That’s just the stuff we did. Then there’s all the stuff that happened.

Let me tell you allll about it!

The biggest thing…WE MOVED! And it’s done and over with <– the BEST part! I will say that it was the easiest move we’ve experienced (and we’ve experienced four in the last five years), as all we had to do was take our stuff about 30-40 feet across the hall. Thank goodness for awesome friends who willingly gave up their Saturday morning/afternoon to help us out!

While the move was logistically easy, it was not so easy on this almost 33 week preggo body. My body ached like its never ached before! In fact, I took two 2.5 hour naps on both Saturday and Sunday. Like I said, thankfully it’s done and over with! Now, it’s time to nest and really prepare for our baby boy!

The next biggest thing…we went to a Cubs game with my sister and BIL and had a blast! The weather, while warm, definitely left all of us with itchy eyes and noses. The pollen count combined with the wind made for an interesting outing. My poor sister must’ve sneezed a thousand times! Regardless, it was fun cheering the team on, high-fiving everyone around us, and singing ‘Take Me Out to the Ball Game.”

This particular game was also special because our nickname for the baby is Kubs/Kubbie (with a K because of our last name). We found out we were pregnant when the Cubs were in the World Series, so it only felt fitting! Essentially, this was Kubs’ first Cubs game! 🙂

Vishnu and I also attended a newborn/child CPR class last week. While Vishnu’s already certified in all of this stuff, I definitely learned a lot of useful information. I just pray we never have to use it.

So that’s the stuff that we did. In terms of stuff that happened to me/us…

My feet/ankles were super swollen on Friday. Like the biggest I’ve seen them! Naturally, I grabbed a pair of compression socks to help with the issue. I thought I grabbed a black pair, as I was wearing black leggings. But nope. I definitely grabbed and wore a navy pair that totally clashed with my OOTD (outfit of the day). I wouldn’t have minded at all except for the fact that I had a doctor’s appointment, and of course, that’s where I realized my mistake. My excuse (for everything) –> #impregnant.

I inadvertently ended up scaring the AT&T technician that came by on Wednesday to set everything up for us. I made my way over to the new apartment a little before when he was expected to arrive. When I walked into the unit, I saw that our bedroom door was closed and literally shaking. I freaked out, grabbed my keys, and ran out, ultimately running into technician as I opened the door. Of course, I screamed…which made him scream. HOT MESS EXPRESS I tell you! I apologized for my crazy, told him I thought someone/thing was in my bedroom, and asked if he would take a look. Bless this man because he did exactly what I asked and even checked our closets and bathroom for me…you know, just in case! #impregnant…? No, I’m just Par!

I’m pretty sure I’m forgetting a pretty funny [to me] Vishnu story! We had quite a few moments this past week that ranged from “aww I love you” to “aww I can’t help but roll my eyes.” Moving stress, and in general the third trimester (for both the mom and dad-to-be), will do that to you!

Anyways, have a great Tuesday!

Apartment Drama + 25 Week Update

written by Parita 4 Comments

Sooo…we’re moving…yet again! The apartment drama I alluded to earlier? That was it.

BUT, things turned out a-ok because we’re staying in the same building on the same floor AND getting a slightly bigger place with more closet space. The best kind of move if you ask me.

The only down side to all of this is that I’ll be more pregnant than ever. Thank goodness for good friends and [potentially even] Task Rabbit.

I won’t get into the details as to why we have to move, but let’s just say it was a rough couple of weeks because we thought we were signing a three year lease on our current place. Also, we have a pretty big life change coming up in a few short months. Thankfully, it had nothing to do with us. In fact, our current landlord actually helped us find this new place.

BIG LESSON LEARNED: Staying as positive as possible really is the best way to face tough situations. As I said to Vishnu quite a few times, “What’s the alternative?”

All’s well that ends well I suppose!

25 Week Update (fair warning…random thoughts ahead)

Whenever someone asks me how I’m feeling, my response is almost always the same. “The baby is great. I’m feeling great…just getting bigger!”

The one word I like to use to describe this stage of the pregnancy is big. Vishnu says I feel bigger than I look, but that’s just it. I absolutely love my round pregnant belly…I just feel big. I feel big when I roll out of bed or switch sides while sleeping. I feel big when I have to squat down and pick something up. I feel big when I have to put my shoes on. I feel big after climbing the stairs at the train station. Honestly, it has nothing to do with my actual size. It’s just that my new size takes some getting used to, especially when it comes to daily life!

Other than the big factor, I randomly find myself lost in a sea of thoughts. None of which have to do with the baby himself. More so the logistics of having a baby. It’s weird because I’ve never once been worried or anxious about actually having a baby and all the changes that come with that. My thoughts tend to gravitate to things like how am I going to juggle being a full-time mommy with a full-time career while being married to a very much full-time resident physician. Or how am I going to get food on the table every night. Or will I be able to make time for exercise at some point. Or how is it going to work when Vishnu’s on nights.

Look, I obviously know it’s all going to work out. Millions and millions of people make it work every single day, and I have no doubt that we’ll figure out our own rhythm and all that jazz. It’s just funny to me that I’m thinking about the logistical elements right now versus thinking about keeping our little human alive. The latter part is something I’m excited about. I’m lucky to have 16 weeks at home with our little guy, and I can’t wait to get to know him. By no means am I saying those 16 weeks are going to be easy, especially the first few, but that’s not something I dwell on. Every new mom (and mom in general) goes through the hard stuff. It’s the juggling piece that makes me scratch my head. But like I said, Vishnu and I are a strong (and fun, if I do say so myself!) team, and I know we’ll be just fine.

Other thoughts that come and go…

We’re only going to be a little family of two for a few months now. I selfishly want all the Vishnu time I can get!
This pregnancy is flying by. The other day my sister mentioned how I only have 3/8 of the way to go, and it really stopped me in my tracks. How is that possible?
Who is our baby going to look like? I hope he’s a mix of both of us!
I wonder what the people at the gym think when I walk in and hoist myself up on the EFX machine. I’m hoping it’s “what a badass!”
I CAN’T WAIT TO HOLD OUR BABY!!!

Well, that’s week 25. So far so good!

Happy Friday, all! Make it a great one.

Weekend Recap – Cleaning and Purging

written by Parita 4 Comments

I feel like all I ever talk about is our move to Chicago and everything we’re doing to prepare for it. Trust me, I can’t wait until it’s all over either!

Unsurprisingly, this weekend was all about cleaning and purging. Well most of it anyways…

FRIDAY

If Friday evening could be summed up in three words, they would be run, pasta, [long] nap.

I went out for a run after work because by the time 5 pm rolled around I had only taken 1,500 steps. Ridiculous.
I came home, showered, and made a veggie pasta dinner (pasta, sauteed veggies, pesto, sauce, cheese). Delicious.
And then I literally sat down on the couch, asked Vishnu to wake me up in 15 minutes, and ended up sleeping for almost two hours. Ridiculous. I guess I was a little tired!

And that was Friday.

SATURDAY

If Saturday could be summed up in two words, they would be cleaning and purging. Because that is pretty much what we did from 10 am to 5 pm.

The best part was how reluctant Vishnu was to partake in this big pre-Chicago purge. I don’t know if I’ve mentioned it on the blog before, but my husband is a pack rat. He’s one of those “just in case” people where I’m a “if you can’t remember the last time you used said item, get rid of it” kind of person. I will say, however, that Vishnu did a great job because we ended up with six large completely full trash bags (four full of actual trash and two full of clothes to donate) and a fairly sizable pile of books (to donate and sell).

We also had to reorganize some of our stuff since all of our large furniture, including the two night stands, are being picked up later today. The next six weeks will be interesting to say the least. No bed and no sofa/chair…

I took a break in between all of the chaos to make Running to the Kitchen‘s paleo chocolate chip cookies. This recipe is one of my favorites because it’s a one bowl recipe that’s simple, healthy, and delicious!

Because cooking was the last thing I wanted to do at the end of the day, Vishnu suggested trying a local pizza place that recently opened up.

We ordered a veggie pizza, and while it wasn’t the best pie I’ve ever had, it wasn’t half bad! Definitely hit the spot.

After dinner, we came straight home, changed into some comfy clothes, made popcorn, and watched Cloverfield. It’s been a long time since I’ve watched a suspenseful movie! In Vishnu’s words, I’m a very animated person when I watch these kinds of movies. This means I start screaming and tightly holding his hand when the music gets intense. I like to think I make things that much more fun!

SUNDAY

Sunday was a good mix of work and relaxation. I completed a quick strength workout at the gym before heading out for a long walk with Vishnu. We also ran some errands, grocery shopped, and prepped for the movers (vacuumed the sofa/chair and dusted everything else).

And that was our weekend in a three part snapshot! Have a great Monday!

If you had to sum up your weekend in three words, what would they be?

See You Later, Miami!

written by Parita 7 Comments

After two amazing years of Miami living, Vishnu and I are saying “see you later!” (I refuse to say goodbye because I know we’ll be back sooner than later.) And while we’re embarking on a fun new adventure, I’m really going to miss this city and all the memories it holds.

More specifically, I’m going to miss…

…all the wonderful friends we’ve made. It’s crazy how close and connected you can feel to people you haven’t known all that long. Although it’s been hard saying bye to everyone, I know our Miami peeps are lifelong friends, so it’s more like “see you soon.”
…our apartment. We really lucked out with our place here. It was the perfect size, in the perfect location, with the perfect view.
…Miami weather. More so the warmth and not the crazy humidity. And because we’ll still be in sunny Florida for a year, it probably won’t hit me until we move to Chicago.
…being able to walk EVERYWHERE – the grocery store, the post office, the nail salon, bars, restaurants, and most importantly, my office. For two years, I had the BEST commute in the world!
…my runs along Brickell Key. If you follow me on Instagram and have seen my beautiful sunrise pictures, then you’ve seen a part of Brickell Key. It’s a small key located directly behind our condo building, and the perimeter is lined with the most perfect path for running/walking.
…my hair stylist. For the past two years, I’ve gone to the same lady for my haircuts and most recently my color. She is amazing. And we all know how hard it is to find a hair person. Crossing my fingers that I can find someone like Jessica in both St. Pete and Chicago! For anyone living in the Miami area, check out Philip Francis Hair Salon and book with Jessica.
…Giardino’s salads. I know what you’re probably thinking but hear me out. This place makes the BEST salads in the world. They are loaded with fresh ingredients and topped with the tastiest dressings. Most everyone who’s visited us in Miami had tried Giardino’s and loved it!

I’ll be the first to admit that I wasn’t a huge fan of the idea of living in Miami. In fact, when I first moved down here, I was already counting down the days until our move out of here. But now? Let’s just say I’m going to miss this wonderful, chaotic, magical city with all my heart.

See you later, Miami! And thank you for everything! We’re sure going to miss you, but we’ll be back soon!

Three Things Thursday (13)

written by Parita 15 Comments

I don’t have an introduction for today’s post. I guess I’m still tired from the weekend and have a lot on my mind in terms of our move, so let’s get right to my Three Things Thursday.1. The state of our apartment

Our apartment is one big hot mess right now. We ordered boxes and packing supplies last week, and they all came in on Tuesday. As much as I hate this messy state, I’m hoping it motivates us to pack faster. At least packed boxes can be stacked on top of each other!

2. Essentialism by Greg McKeown

I’m not going to say too much about this book today because I have a post dedicated to it coming up tomorrow. However, I will say this much – it’s a powerful read for people who want to make their best contribution and stay sane while doing it. And the concept of achieving more by doing less falls in line nicely with one of my other recent reads (7 Habits of Highly Effective People) and my quest to make more time.

3. Brahmakumari Shivani

Recently, my mom has been listening to YouTube videos of someone named Brahmakumari Shivani. BK Shivani is an Indian spiritual teacher and inspirational speaker. Her talks are all about how to be a good human but from a very commonsense and normal place. While there are some religious references, she doesn’t use Hinduism to make her point, making her views more universal in nature.

Anyway, ever since hearing about what a positive impact BK Shivani’s videos have had on my mom, I’ve wanted to listen as well. I started out by listening to the Hindi versions, but I felt like I wasn’t getting the full effect of what she was saying, so I gave up. A few weeks later, my mom told me to search “BK Shivani English” in YouTube, and lo and behold, there were tons of videos in English.

If you have some time, I highly recommend you watch out a video or two. If you listen with your whole heart, you’ll be hooked and 110% inspired…I promise!

Your turn to share – what are three things you’ve been thinking about/doing this week! If you’re a blogger, write a post and link back to one or all of the hostesses: Raj from Pink Chai Living, Nisha from Love Laugh Mirch, or Salma from The Write Balance. Then share a link to your post (not your blog’s home page).

Thanks for reading!

Bittersweet Times

written by Parita 18 Comments

Saying goodbye is not easy for me. In fact, for me, farewells usually involve tears. It’s been that way ever since I was a little girl. I remember crying when my cousins moved to North Carolina (I was five years old). I cried a lot when my best friend Megan moved away. There were lots and lots of tears when we made our move from RI to GA. And it’s pretty much the same story with every other goodbye since.

What can I say, I’m an emotional person!

Times may be changing though because I didn’t shed a single tear at my goodbye lunch today at Olive Garden. That’s not to say I wasn’t on the brink of tears.

Before I go on about my emotional self, can we just talk about how much Olive Garden has improved over the years?! My friends and I used to go a lot in high school, but since then, I‘ve only been a handful of times. The quality of the food has vastly improved over the past 10 years. I was impressed by the Minestrone soup, fresh salad (four bowls worth), and warm breadstick that was my lunch. And everyone else’s meals looked equally as delicious. Next time, I definitely want to try one of the desserts.

YUM.

Ok, so back to me. I’ve been with my current company for almost two years. And because of the leadership program I’m a part of, I’ve had the opportunity to live and work in three different geographic locations (AZ –> MA –> and now FL). I’ve learned a lot along the way, but honestly, the people I’ve met and gotten to know are what have made the past two years so special.

I remember my last team meeting in Tucson. I was an emotional wreck. As soon as I started tearing up, about 2/3 of the team joined me. And right before I left Marlborough, I hugged one of my coworkers for two minutes (while crying).

So as you can imagine, I was super impressed by my sense of composure today. The team in Florida has been awesome to work with. I seriously have had the best luck with coworkers. It’s just that there are so many fun things happening in the next two months…I’m honestly just too excited to cry. Also, I know that I can always visit since St. Pete is only 3.5 hours from Fort Lauderdale.

I like to call these bittersweet times. I’m leaving a company that has provided me with some amazing opportunities over the past couple of years and coworkers that have made the journey worthwhile. However, I know that keeping in touch with everyone will be easy with all the technology that’s available.

And anyway, there’s no reason to get sappy just yet…I still have 1.5 weeks left. They can’t get rid of me that easily! We’ll see how I fare next Friday (my last official day). Will Parita’s tears make an appearance?? Only time will tell!

Are you an emotional person? Do you cry easily? If not, how do you show your sadness?

Moving Day aka Snow Day

written by Parita Leave a Comment

I am officially all moved in! But really, all this means is that my stuff is in my apartment. There is a ton of organizing and cleaning that still needs to happen…bleh.

Mother Nature did not want to cooperate yesterday, hence this is what I woke up to…

I saw this and wanted to cry...

No worries, I didn’t cry – I think I actually laughed. 🙂 Before I tackled the weather, I wanted to get in a filling, yummy breakfast, so I ate this…

Breakfast cookie (bowl)

I was catching up on a few blogs Thursday night, and when I got to Amanda’s, I was super excited because I had everything I needed to make her Breakfast Cookie recipe! Thank you, Amanda, because this was absolutely delicious – creamy, pudding/mousse-like, and so filling! I can see myself making this all.the.time.

I’m glad I had a good breakfast because lunch didn’t happen until 2 pm in the form of Papa John’s pizza. I hadn’t had chain pizza in a really long time, and after yesterday’s lunch, I made the decision to avoid it as much as possible from now on. It wasn’t very good. Oh well, it filled me up, and that’s what counted yesterday.

Well, after a long chain of events, including lugging my stuff from the hotel to my car in six inches of snow, realizing that I have way too much kitchen stuff and that my new kitchen is actually kind of small, staying up past my bedtime sifting through my stuff, I have a home! There’s still a lot of work that needs to be done, but I hope to be finished by tonight.

Here’s what I’m most proud of…