Breakfast at Target's Lenten Offerings

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"Super Star" - SNL Studios (1999)

Growing up a Catholic gal, I've come to actually love the season of Lent. I've always preferred the more formal, liturgical traditions at Mass - I'm not really a kumbaya kind of girl. Lent provides a time of quiet, a time of reflection, a time to be conscious of the things that aren't REALLY adding any depth to one's life. While I've tried the whole behavioral approach (no cussing, less negativity, more gratitude, yadda yadda...), I've discovered I need to give up tangible things to really make a connection -- guess I am a material girl even in the spiritual world.

My Lenten offerings are largely tied to food/spending. At first, I felt a little shallow about it, like I was using Lent as a religious diet plan. But the simple truth is that 1) I come into contact with food every day and therefore have to make choices, 2) it's easy to frivolously spend money on wasteful things, and 3) I usually resort to food and/or "retail therapy" for emotional reasons: anxiety, stress, over-excitement, whatever. But in a way, Lent kind of is a spiritual detox - and at the end of the forty days, I'm a little lighter, less cranky, and able to find different ways to approach my underlying issues. (Then of course I blow it on Easter when I scarf every sugar-laden goodie in sight... but that's another story.) 

Either way, if I turn down an opportunity to go to lunch or an afternoon out on the town, now you'll know why. The next several weeks will hopefully get me a little closer to the Big Guy - and I'll put in a good word for all of you along the way. 

Breakfast at Target's Giving Up:

1. Chocolate

I've given this up EVERY year since I was little. I have stashes in every corner of my life (my office, my purse, the apartment - no joke), and I have a horrible habit of eating it whether I want it or not. Addicted is kind of a strong word... but I can honestly say I don't remember a day recently where I didn't eat a piece. Excuse my shakes and sweats as I enter withdrawal in the coming days...

2. Fast food

Via Washington Post

While this does mean chain fast food joints, which I typically don't frequent anyways, it's more the concept of "fast food" - relying on quick, cheap eats to get through the day; being too flat out lazy to prepare anything; or using "bad food" as reward or to cope with a bad day. It not only racks up heavy on the wallet, but my thighs and tush really don't need any extra padding. Not to mention, the guilt of stuffing my face with tasteless, fat-saturated food brings about more shame then any Catholic guilt trip.

3. Red meat

Via Redbook Mag

Again, something that doesn't really have a significant impact on my day-to-day, but it's usually associated with gluttonous occasions: BBQ's, BBQ buffets, steak dinners, supreme pizza Friday nights, and so on. While I always observe no meat at all on Fridays, giving red meat makes me far more conscious of food choices in general. Plus, it kind ties back to the whole biblical "no eating pork" thing, and who doesn't love a little religious flair?

4. Target

Without a doubt, I always get the jaw-dropping reaction the most from this one. I started this a couple of years ago, and it doesn't get any easier. It sounds weird (c'mon, my blog's namesake is for Target), but I've wasted an embarrassing amount of time, money, and dignity from my Target shopping trips. Worst part is I have no buyers remorse and no problem justifying my stupid purchases and turn Gollum ("Myyyy precioussss!") when John tries to take things out of the cart or make me return them. It's a terrible habit, but one I desperately need to tame. So, Lent, this one's for you.

So, what are you giving up?

I always like to know what others are giving up, doing more of, or trying out out in the name of pre-Easter penance. For those who were a little late in making their Lenten choices, you might find yourself inspired by other readers' choices!

Happy Lent!

**Update: John has made the very serious decision to give up alcohol for Lent... which means *I* give up alcohol for Lent, because I'm not the 20-something gal who can drink wine from a coffee cup on her lonesome anymore. And now I'm discovering what this "until death do us part" nonsense is all about... LONGEST 40 DAYS EVAR.

"The Thing That Matters Most in the Pursuit of Happiness is Choosing the Right Companion."

Oh, 2012. 

What a saucy little brat you turned out to be. While I experienced some of the most incredible life-changing moments of my, well, life, I couldn't help but feel 2012 tried to make it all about itself... stealing my small joys, leaving me to fend for myself, and consuming any time I thought I had to actually invest in the new chapters of my life. 

But then 2013 came, and what a delight it has been so far. Welcoming, really, and also reassuring that the events of 2012 and all the years leading up to my plunge into adulthood are now shifting to a fulfilling new world -- one that's not defined by hectic class schedules, stressful assignments, and confusing work projects, but one that waits for me to lead this time. 

And it.is.TERRIFYING.

Though I have NEVER been more excited.

Because I'm not doing it alone. 

I have an amazing family, one that became even stronger that morning I exchanged those holy words with my better-half on that warm, early morning on the beach.

Insanely wonderful friends who are incredibly generous, thoughtful, supportive, and hilarious.

Fat chihuahuas who daily exhibit the simple and understated value of hugs, kisses, and being REALLY excited about going to play outside.

A handsome husband who selflessly puts my needs before his, but isn't afraid to grab my hand and pull me into his arms when I spiral into a furry over the latest thing I'm excited, frustrated, or nervous about.

No matter how crazy I feel like I am, 

I know you all are just a little bit crazier. 

{Via Laura Serra on Society6}

Because you're still here.

I will never forget it. 

I will always be grateful.

And I'm taking you all with me - into 2013, 

into this promising new world, this leap of faith.

My photography ("photographie!") endeavors are ramping-up, and I'm excited to have a new, strategic plan. If you want to be a part, I love collaborations, celebrations, new beginnings, accomplishments, favorite hobbies, and anniversaries. Or just because.

There's even a new CGP Pinterest profile for photo shoot inspiration, photography tips & tutorials, and general creative finds.

(*Now accepting clients for senior/graduation photos - need to schedule soon so you'll have images back in time for Spring graduation announcements.)

"Breakfast at Target," too, is tired of being the red-headed step-child of my creative life. To help keep the B@T love more frequently updated, easily accessible, and because all the blog gurus say I should do it, there's now a Facebook fan page to keep you all more connected. 

In other words,

Thank you.

Thank you for sticking around until I got off my fat lard and decided being tired and frustrated and anxious is no way to go through life.

That bourbon tastes MUCH better when paired with triumphs and positive vibes.

I've got a long ways to go, but I've taken off the training wheels; and I'm ready to soar down the driveway, and this time I'm not afraid of crashing face-first into the neighbor's trashcan.

There's a smell of awesome in the air, and I will follow it. Because it smells like waffles, and I don't even have to tell you the magic that happens when waffles get involved.

I hope you'll join me.

Hugs & high fives,