Went to my first training class to learn how to be a volunteer tax preparer last night. We quickly moved from one site to another so we could use computers. We got signed on to the training sites and created our personal accounts and passwords. Played with the site a bit. Seems pretty intuitive to use.
Found out there are two additional classes next week. I am going to be gone so will have to make other arrangements. Luckily those two classes seem pretty simple. I looked at one of the two tests today and feel really confident I can pass it. I will be doing homework while I am in OK next week.
The following week we have three classes that teach us the heart of preparing the returns. I am glad I will be here for those three classes. Just wish they would have told us about the additional five classes when they told us about the first one.
I told them I would work lots of hours when I am in town as I will be gone some during the two and one-half months we will be preparing returns. Not sure when I will get my schedule. I was unclear if they do the schedule a month at a time or a week at a time. They seem pretty flexible and welcome us to work only when it is convenient.
It was nice seeing my Marine and his wife last night. Her daughter was also with them so I got to meet her. We had a good conversation after they got here. They had planned on staying until tomorrow but had truck troubles and needed to get home by early afternoon. The weather was also a bit dicey as snow is predicted both in KS and MO for tonight and tomorrow.
I have sheets washing and trash done. Will get the beds made and the floors and bathrooms cleaned this afternoon. Don’t have any other guests scheduled at this point until April. That can always change quickly though and I like to keep the rooms ready just in case someone books.
Today marks eleven months of being on the Bright Lines Eating Plan. I lost 50 pounds during that time and have completely changed how I eat. It gets easier everyday to stick to the plan. My main two bright lines above all else is to avoid any type of flour or sugar. I do cheat occasionally and eat a snack, although that is rare. I no longer weigh and measure my food like I did at the beginning. As long as my weight remains stable I am good to go. I have set an upper weight limit for myself and if I hit that I have to go back to being much stricter with what and when I eat. So far I haven’t gotten there. It has been almost five months since I hit my goal weight and I actually am 9 pounds below that goal today. I haven’t lost any more weight for over a month now so thinking I have hit my bottom weight.
Someone at the meeting last night that I knew and hadn’t seen since I lost the weight commented on how thin I am. That still feels weird when someone says something as I still don’t see myself as thin. I have read that it can take up to two years to change your own self-image after a major weight loss and see yourself as others see you.
I am staying tucked inside today. The rain makes the prairie feel very quiet today. The Pioneer Bluffs Board Meeting scheduled for tomorrow may get postponed depending on weather. Some of the board members live in KC and it may be difficult for them to get there. We are supposed to get up to five inches of snow overnight. Snow seems to be hard to predict though so I will believe it when I see it.
I finally slept really good last night. Got two good sleeps in – each about four hours. As usual though when I get extra sleep I feel extra tired today. May take a nap on this cold and wet day. Perfect napping weather!
Sitting in my peaceful valley today. Feeling a deep sense of contentment today and feeling all is well. The rain is giving the earth a winter drink, the house is quiet, the critters are all tucked inside and content, and nothing needs to be done. Nice to have a day like this. I’m looking forward to seeing my Match guy Monday evening.
Grateful for the visit from my Marine and his family, grateful for a volunteer opportunity that feels like it will be rewarding and meaningful, and grateful for the rain on the prairie today.
Lovely to hear how you are and how things are!