As I've been continually saying that Facebook is boring these days, I do have to say that I have a few friends, and I mean a few, who post funny, even hilarious things that I always check out. Whether it be a comic, article, blog or whatever, they are the people worth staying on Facebook for.
One person in particular, whom I've never met, is Chantel. I won't go into how I "know" her, but she is a person on my list who I wish to meet in person. I find her intriguing and an amazing human being. So much to say about her, but I will just keep it at that.
She posted this today.. no idea how she found it, but it made me laugh out loud. And since I owed a blog post today, I thought.. this is it :)
I also found it ironic, as I was preparing/creating our holiday cards last night on Shutterfly, I was agonizing over some fonts. I love the fact that this particular card gave me so many options, but I could NOT find the right three to look "right." I did find what I needed and placed the order.. but this just came at the most apporpriate time.
For those who LOVE fonts, and I mean LOVE them.. or are writers/bloggers, this one is for you!
Enjoy!
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
Friday, November 11, 2011
Still bored
Decided to write here again today as I don't have a kid related post.
I continue to be bored with Facebook. Anyone else? I keep trying to figure it out. I've been generally happy with the changes (although not many others are), but I just can't get excited about many of my friend's statuses. I even deleted a bunch of people to help with this issue, but it's only helped a tiny bit.
I guess it's time for round 3 of the deleting process. You have been warned :)
In other news, today is 11/11/11 which I'm declaring as my lucky day :) Elevens have been showing up in my world for a few years now. I decided to look up what 11 actually meant and in short, it means that you're "ready for the next best thing." Basically being totally open to what's ahead. I always find that amazing as I'm usually not that type of person, but there's times I start to tell myself "maybe you don't know yourself as well as you think."
Leading up to my lucky day, yesterday was one of the best days with my daughter in weeks. She's finally well enough that her nose isn't running all day, her appetite is back and she's happy. As I stated in my Mom Blog, we're having slight sleep issues, but nothing major. I have some tricks up my sleeve that I hope will work :)
Today was a pretty chill day (literally and figuratively) as we went to a playdate, had lunch and I got a bunch of things done I hadn't done all week due to me being sick.
It's time to ramp up for a semi-busy weekend, but all great stuff. Open House for a local pre-school, Holiday photo shoot and some me time on Sunday.
I guess.. life is good? :)
I continue to be bored with Facebook. Anyone else? I keep trying to figure it out. I've been generally happy with the changes (although not many others are), but I just can't get excited about many of my friend's statuses. I even deleted a bunch of people to help with this issue, but it's only helped a tiny bit.
I guess it's time for round 3 of the deleting process. You have been warned :)
In other news, today is 11/11/11 which I'm declaring as my lucky day :) Elevens have been showing up in my world for a few years now. I decided to look up what 11 actually meant and in short, it means that you're "ready for the next best thing." Basically being totally open to what's ahead. I always find that amazing as I'm usually not that type of person, but there's times I start to tell myself "maybe you don't know yourself as well as you think."
Leading up to my lucky day, yesterday was one of the best days with my daughter in weeks. She's finally well enough that her nose isn't running all day, her appetite is back and she's happy. As I stated in my Mom Blog, we're having slight sleep issues, but nothing major. I have some tricks up my sleeve that I hope will work :)
Today was a pretty chill day (literally and figuratively) as we went to a playdate, had lunch and I got a bunch of things done I hadn't done all week due to me being sick.
It's time to ramp up for a semi-busy weekend, but all great stuff. Open House for a local pre-school, Holiday photo shoot and some me time on Sunday.
I guess.. life is good? :)
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Writing Block
Forgive me readers for I have sinned. It's been six months since my last blog...
As I always say, it's hard to believe it has been that long since I have written, but I tend to write less as the Spring and Summer arises due to the sun showing it's face and with so much more to do outside.
I got an alert today from Blogger about upgrading my "other blogs" to my Google account. Other blogs? I thought it might be spam, but I clicked on one of the links anyway to check. I didn't even remember the titles of these blogs. One was a test so I at least had an excuse there, but the other one I had written three entries back in 2002. I vaguely remember doing that, but when I read the last entry, I did start to remember. One of my friends had a blog and sent me over to Blogger to start mine. I wanted to have a diary of sorts but had given up on acutal writing (now writing more than a Thank You Note cramps my hand). I had started that one but only made three entries. It's too bad as I was blogging about my adjusstment to Massachussets, or Worcester in general, and it would have been great to go back and see how much I've grown here. Oh well.. live and learn.
I've been thinking about wring for a few weeks now. Lots have happened to me personally, with my family and with the world in general. I once again wish I had been writing something, but I really have no excuse. I spend several hours a day watching TV. Sometimes I'm doing something else while watching and other times not. It really comes down to my commitment and what I want to "remember." Writing this today is a good start.
I do recall, however, why I stopped writing though. I had gotten a HUGE energy spike earlier this year from finding other local bloggers and mom bloggers. I went to a few events, as I wanted to see if I could actually have a "job" writing blogs. Although the events were OK, I wasn't blown away. I met some really great people, but unfortunately, none of those people were really using their blogs for monetary use. Most had just started (a lot like me) and didn't have the monetary part as an end goal.
As with many things I've done in my life, I got very frustrated after putting a lot of energy into something and when it didn't work as quickly as I'd like, I give up or pull away. I could probably go back into my calendar and look at when the last meeting was and when I stopped writing to find the correlation.
It's no one's fault other than mine and I guess that needed to happen. I have other things I like to put energy into and places where things (or people) take my time. This is a choice, but I always think I can take on a lot for a small amount of time. Usually that is not the case.
So for now, I'll be back just writing about my life and what's going on, my opinions and thoughts on things that pass along my Facebook feed or news stories I hear from friends or family. I do love to write, but when I lose the context of why I started, the frustration happens and I "quit."
Luckily, I received that email from Blogger and it got me to this page at least.
Something like this blog only takes me about 15-20 minutes to write. I actually could write daily.. even if it were a line or two to keep things going, but that's not me. If I write, I have a lot to say and I usually takes a bit.
For the 10th time, maybe I will take on a game to write daily, either here or on my mom blog, to see what shows up. It's worth a shot :)
As I always say, it's hard to believe it has been that long since I have written, but I tend to write less as the Spring and Summer arises due to the sun showing it's face and with so much more to do outside.
I got an alert today from Blogger about upgrading my "other blogs" to my Google account. Other blogs? I thought it might be spam, but I clicked on one of the links anyway to check. I didn't even remember the titles of these blogs. One was a test so I at least had an excuse there, but the other one I had written three entries back in 2002. I vaguely remember doing that, but when I read the last entry, I did start to remember. One of my friends had a blog and sent me over to Blogger to start mine. I wanted to have a diary of sorts but had given up on acutal writing (now writing more than a Thank You Note cramps my hand). I had started that one but only made three entries. It's too bad as I was blogging about my adjusstment to Massachussets, or Worcester in general, and it would have been great to go back and see how much I've grown here. Oh well.. live and learn.
I've been thinking about wring for a few weeks now. Lots have happened to me personally, with my family and with the world in general. I once again wish I had been writing something, but I really have no excuse. I spend several hours a day watching TV. Sometimes I'm doing something else while watching and other times not. It really comes down to my commitment and what I want to "remember." Writing this today is a good start.
I do recall, however, why I stopped writing though. I had gotten a HUGE energy spike earlier this year from finding other local bloggers and mom bloggers. I went to a few events, as I wanted to see if I could actually have a "job" writing blogs. Although the events were OK, I wasn't blown away. I met some really great people, but unfortunately, none of those people were really using their blogs for monetary use. Most had just started (a lot like me) and didn't have the monetary part as an end goal.
As with many things I've done in my life, I got very frustrated after putting a lot of energy into something and when it didn't work as quickly as I'd like, I give up or pull away. I could probably go back into my calendar and look at when the last meeting was and when I stopped writing to find the correlation.
It's no one's fault other than mine and I guess that needed to happen. I have other things I like to put energy into and places where things (or people) take my time. This is a choice, but I always think I can take on a lot for a small amount of time. Usually that is not the case.
So for now, I'll be back just writing about my life and what's going on, my opinions and thoughts on things that pass along my Facebook feed or news stories I hear from friends or family. I do love to write, but when I lose the context of why I started, the frustration happens and I "quit."
Luckily, I received that email from Blogger and it got me to this page at least.
Something like this blog only takes me about 15-20 minutes to write. I actually could write daily.. even if it were a line or two to keep things going, but that's not me. If I write, I have a lot to say and I usually takes a bit.
For the 10th time, maybe I will take on a game to write daily, either here or on my mom blog, to see what shows up. It's worth a shot :)
Friday, April 8, 2011
American Idol, Pia and the Buzz
I knew there would be a lot of buzz today about Pia getting voted off Idol last night.. well, more than a lot.
I just read a few blogs on this, but this one made me head over here to blog.. and fast.
A voting problem? Well, I can't say there isn't, but in my opinion, America may have gotten it right again last night. At this point in the game, the weaker contestants will be gone 1-2-3. That's what happened to Thia and Naima last week. America got it right. Thia was just getting eaten up by the show and the competition. In her case, her age got her and Naima just wasn't a "fit" for the show and I think a lot of the viewing population didn't "get her." I did, but 40 somethings are not a large population of viewers. Would I have loved to see her win or get farther? Sure. But was she one of the best singers, no.
I do have to say that last night was a surprise for me, as Pia was destined to win the thing. I mean, look at her. Perfect body, perfect voice, singing since she was four, comfortable on stage, articulate and great fashion sense. Here's what I think happened.. and it's what the judges always say.. song choice, song choice, song choice.
Last week's theme was "Rock and Roll Hall of Fame." She had hundreds of songs to choose from. But what does she choose? A Tina Turner song that even I wasn't familiar with, "River Deep - Mountain High." She sounded great, but it was boring. She didn't do anything with it, not many people knew the song (except maybe Randy) and I knew she'd be in the bottom three the next day. Was I the only one?
Here's Tina's version:
Fast forward to last night, it wasn't a huge surprise to me that she was in the bottom three with that song. The deal with this season is at least they found really talented singers, but now they are stuck with ALL of them being amazing. There are some that stick out as "better," but it's all about the song choice and if they end up having a good night that night, or if they're not sick, or "_______." At this point, unfortunately, it will be a popularity contest. We've already been warned (as we are every season, every week) to be sure to vote for your favorite as no one is safe--no one.
I now feel like I'm getting a small glimpse into Simon Cowell's mind and really seeing his reasoning on choosing some people over others during try outs and in Hollywood Week. In past seasons, it's been obvious that there were amazing singers that didn't get picked and we all wondered why.. well.. we now have the answer, or at least one.
I think Simon was always looking at the show, numbers and what would have people continue to tune in. He was looking at the big picture. We may not like that context, but in the end, this is a TV show. With the new judges, minus Simon, their context was finding the best singer. Was this wrong? No. But their view was smaller. I don't think they were looking at the show.. they were focusing on the kids and getting them a record contract.
Good or bad, we are now "stuck" with 8 extraordinary singers. I love hearing each of them sing and finding out what they will bring to the table with arrangements, but as we move farther along in the show, I think they all may be a bit tentative in bringing uniqueness to their performances. Why? They'll want to play it safe. All of them know any of them could win this. If Pia got voted off, anyone can. Especially since deep down inside, I think each of them knew that Pia would win it all.
I was waiting last night for someone to give up their spot. It's never happened before. But in this case, one of them should have. You can't tell me that Jacob or Paul, for example, think they can win this on vocal ability. Don't get me wrong, their voices are unique, but they are not American Idol winners (sorry to those that are huge fans). I'm a huge Casey fan, but he would be the one I could see giving up his spot. He already almost left the show, he was feeling guilty that the save was used on him, it would have been perfect TV.
In the end, he was going on tour anyway, he'll have a record contract either way and he would have left as a name that no one would forget as he gave up his spot for the better hopeful. Just perfect.
But that didn't happen.
I'm wondering what the producers are saying right now. Ironically, I just went to the American Idol website and they don't have the banner on Pia's picture that says "voted off." Makes a girl wonder.
Many have said there's a major issue with the voting process on the show including the blog link I shared above. You can vote a number of ways and as many times as you want pretty much. There's people who are haters of the show who have a contest where they vote for the WORST singer to see if they can stay on the show. Although there will always be those people, if there was a limit on how many times you could vote (other shows have that rule in place) I think it would end up a bit more fair and accurate.
But for now, there's no way they will change any voting structure until next season. It wouldn't be fair to the past contestants and it would show some sort of "failure" with the Idol voting process in general. And we wouldn't want to show the reality of this on a REALITY SHOW would we?? Wow, do I smell lawsuit on that one.
So in the end, I'm shocked, but not floored about the Pia departure. The song wasn't the best choice, she veered away from what she does best (ballads) and got sucked into what the judges kept telling her. What she should have listened to was America and their fast fingers. All those other weeks she was in the game, then she changes it up and she's gone.
To the other contestants, I say this: "Follow your heart and gut. You know what's right."
Needless to say, the show has an interesting twist starting next week and for that alone, people will continue to watch. Oh the drama! American Idol, how I love you!
Monday, February 28, 2011
Back to life
Illness for the past couple months has kept me from writing. So many changes have been going on, but just no energy to write. I think I am back on the horse and ready to get back.
I did create new business cards for my mom blog and went to a Boston Parent Bloggers event, which was very helpful and fun. I really want to be more consistent in my blogging.. I so wish I had a "brain to computer" app.. would make life so much easier :)
I did create new business cards for my mom blog and went to a Boston Parent Bloggers event, which was very helpful and fun. I really want to be more consistent in my blogging.. I so wish I had a "brain to computer" app.. would make life so much easier :)
Monday, January 24, 2011
20 Questions That Could Change Your Life
I rarely repost magazine articles, but I found this fairly poignant now that it's the first month of the year and also things I think of quite often.
20 Questions That Could Change Your Life
Finding the answers starts with posing the right questions—and Martha Beck has 20 to get you started.
By Martha Beck
O, The Oprah Magazine | January 18, 2011
1. What questions should I be asking myself?
At first I thought asking yourself what you should be asking yourself was redundant. It isn't. Without this question, you wouldn't ask any others, so it gets top billing. It creates an alert, thoughtful mind state, ideal for ferreting out the information you most need in every situation. Ask it frequently.
2. Is this what I want to be doing?
This very moment is, always, the only moment in which you can make changes. Knowing which changes are best for you comes, always, from assessing what you feel. Ask yourself many times every day if you like what you're doing. If the answer is no, start noticing what you'd prefer. Thus begins the revolution.
3. Why worry?
These two words, considered sincerely, can radically reconfigure the landscape of your mind. Worry rarely leads to positive action; it's just painful, useless fear about hypothetical events, which scuttles happiness rather than ensuring it. Some psychologists say that by focusing on gratitude, we can shut down the part of the brain that worries. It actually works!
4. Why do I like {cupcakes} more than I like {people}?
Feel free to switch out the words in brackets: You may like TV more than exercise, or bad boys more than nice guys, or burglary more than reading. Whatever the particulars, every woman has something she likes more than the somethings she's supposed to like. But forcing "virtues"—trying to like people more than cupcakes—drives us to vices that offer false freedom from oppression. Stop trying to like the things you don't like, and many vices will disappear on their own.
5. How do I want the world to be different because I lived in it?
Your existence is already a factor in world history—now, what sort of factor do you want it to be? Maybe you know you're here to create worldwide prosperity, a beautiful family, or one really excellent bagel. If your impressions are more vague, keep asking this question. Eventually you'll glimpse clearer outlines of your destiny. Live by design, not by accident.
6. How do I want to be different because I lived in this world?
In small ways or large, your life will change the world—and in small ways or large, the world will change you. What experiences do you want to have during your brief sojourn here? Make a list. Make a vision board. Make a promise. This won't control your future, but it will shape it.
7. Are {vegans} better people?
Again, it doesn't have to be vegans; the brackets are for you to fill in. Substitute the virtue squad that makes you feel worst about yourself, the one you'll never have the discipline to join, whether it's ultra-marathoners or mothers who never raise their voices. Whatever group you're asking about, the answer to this question is no.
8. What is my body telling me?
As I often say, my mind is a two-bit whore—by which I mean that my self-justifying brain, like any self-justifying brain, will happily absorb beliefs based on biases, ego gratification, magical thinking, or just plain error. The body knows better. It's a wise, capable creature. It recoils from what's bad for us, and leans into what's good. Let it.
9. How much junk could a chic chick chuck if a chic chick could chuck junk?
I believe this question was originally posed by Lao Tzu, who also wrote, "To become learned, each day add something. To become enlightened, each day drop something." Face it: You'd be better off without some of your relationships, many of your possessions, and most of your thoughts. Chuck your chic-chick junk, chic chick. Enlightenment awaits.
10. What's so funny?
Adults tend to put this question to children in a homicidal-sounding snarl, which is probably why as you grew up, your laughter rate dropped from 400 times a day (for toddlers) to the grown-up daily average of 15. Regain your youth by laughing at every possible situation. Then, please, tell us what's funny—about everyday life, about human nature, even about pain and fear. We'll pay you anything.
11. Where am I wrong?
This might well be the most powerful question on our list—as Socrates believed, we gain our first measure of intelligence when we first admit our own ignorance. Your ego wants you to avoid noticing where you may have bad information or unworkable ideas. But you'll gain far more capability and respect by asking where you're wrong than by insisting you're right.
12. What potential memories am I bartering, and is the profit worth the price?
I once read a story about a world where people sold memories the way we can sell plasma. The protagonist was an addict who'd pawned many memories for drugs but had sworn never to sell his memory of falling in love. His addiction won. Afterward he was unaware of his loss, lacking the memory he'd sold. But for the reader, the trade-off was ghastly to contemplate. Every time you choose social acceptance over your heart's desires, or financial gain over ethics, or your comfort zone over the adventure you were born to experience, you're making a similar deal. Don't.
13. Am I the only one struggling not to {fart} during {yoga}?
I felt profoundly liberated when this issue was raised on Saturday Night Live's "Weekend Update." Not everyone does yoga, but SNL reminded me that everyone dreads committing some sort of gaffe. Substitute your greatest shame-fear: crying at work, belching in church, throwing up on the prime minister of Japan. Then know you aren't alone. Everyone worries about such faux pas, and many have committed them (well, maybe not the throwing up on PMs). Accepting this is a bold step toward mental health and a just society.
14. What do I love to practice?
Some psychologists believe that no one is born with any particular talent and that all skill is gained through practice. Studies have shown that masters are simply people who've practiced a skill intensely for 10,000 hours or more. That requires loving—not liking, loving—what you do. If you really want to excel, go where you're passionate enough to practice.
15. Where could I work less and achieve more?
To maximize time spent practicing your passions, minimize everything else. These days you can find machines or human helpers to assist with almost anything. Author Timothy Ferriss "batches" job tasks into his famous "four-hour workweek." My client Cindy has an e-mail ghostwriter. Another client, Angela, hired an assistant in the Philippines who flawlessly tracks her schedule and her investments. Get creative with available resources to find more time in your life and life in your time.
16. How can I keep myself absolutely safe?
Ask this question just to remind yourself of the answer: You can't. Life is inherently uncertain. The way to cope with that reality is not to control and avoid your way into a rigid little demi-life, but to develop courage. Doing what you long to do, despite fear, will accomplish this.
17. Where should I break the rules?
If everyone kept all the rules, we'd still be practicing cherished traditions like child marriage, slavery, and public hangings. The way humans become humane is by assessing from the heart, rather than the rule book, where the justice of a situation lies. Sometimes you have to break the rules around you to keep the rules within you.
18. So say I lived in that fabulous house in Tuscany, with untold wealth, a gorgeous, adoring mate, and a full staff of servants...then what?
We can get so obsessed with acquiring fabulous lives that we forget to live. When my clients ask themselves this question, they almost always discover that their "perfect life" pastimes are already available. Sharing joy with loved ones, spending time in nature, finding inner peace, writing your novel, plotting revenge—you can do all these things right now. Begin!
19. Are my thoughts hurting or healing?
Your situation may endanger your life and limbs, but only your thoughts can endanger your happiness. Telling yourself a miserable mental story about your circumstances creates suffering. Telling yourself a more positive and grateful story, studies show, increases happiness. Wherever you are, whatever you're doing, choose thoughts that knit your heart together, rather than tear it apart.
20. Really truly: Is this what I want to be doing?
It's been several seconds since you asked this. Ask it again. Not to make yourself petulant or frustrated—just to see if it's possible to choose anything, and I mean any little thing, that would make your present experience more delightful. Thus continues the revolution.
20 Questions That Could Change Your Life
Finding the answers starts with posing the right questions—and Martha Beck has 20 to get you started.
By Martha Beck
O, The Oprah Magazine | January 18, 2011
1. What questions should I be asking myself?
At first I thought asking yourself what you should be asking yourself was redundant. It isn't. Without this question, you wouldn't ask any others, so it gets top billing. It creates an alert, thoughtful mind state, ideal for ferreting out the information you most need in every situation. Ask it frequently.
2. Is this what I want to be doing?
This very moment is, always, the only moment in which you can make changes. Knowing which changes are best for you comes, always, from assessing what you feel. Ask yourself many times every day if you like what you're doing. If the answer is no, start noticing what you'd prefer. Thus begins the revolution.
3. Why worry?
These two words, considered sincerely, can radically reconfigure the landscape of your mind. Worry rarely leads to positive action; it's just painful, useless fear about hypothetical events, which scuttles happiness rather than ensuring it. Some psychologists say that by focusing on gratitude, we can shut down the part of the brain that worries. It actually works!
4. Why do I like {cupcakes} more than I like {people}?
Feel free to switch out the words in brackets: You may like TV more than exercise, or bad boys more than nice guys, or burglary more than reading. Whatever the particulars, every woman has something she likes more than the somethings she's supposed to like. But forcing "virtues"—trying to like people more than cupcakes—drives us to vices that offer false freedom from oppression. Stop trying to like the things you don't like, and many vices will disappear on their own.
5. How do I want the world to be different because I lived in it?
Your existence is already a factor in world history—now, what sort of factor do you want it to be? Maybe you know you're here to create worldwide prosperity, a beautiful family, or one really excellent bagel. If your impressions are more vague, keep asking this question. Eventually you'll glimpse clearer outlines of your destiny. Live by design, not by accident.
6. How do I want to be different because I lived in this world?
In small ways or large, your life will change the world—and in small ways or large, the world will change you. What experiences do you want to have during your brief sojourn here? Make a list. Make a vision board. Make a promise. This won't control your future, but it will shape it.
7. Are {vegans} better people?
Again, it doesn't have to be vegans; the brackets are for you to fill in. Substitute the virtue squad that makes you feel worst about yourself, the one you'll never have the discipline to join, whether it's ultra-marathoners or mothers who never raise their voices. Whatever group you're asking about, the answer to this question is no.
8. What is my body telling me?
As I often say, my mind is a two-bit whore—by which I mean that my self-justifying brain, like any self-justifying brain, will happily absorb beliefs based on biases, ego gratification, magical thinking, or just plain error. The body knows better. It's a wise, capable creature. It recoils from what's bad for us, and leans into what's good. Let it.
9. How much junk could a chic chick chuck if a chic chick could chuck junk?
I believe this question was originally posed by Lao Tzu, who also wrote, "To become learned, each day add something. To become enlightened, each day drop something." Face it: You'd be better off without some of your relationships, many of your possessions, and most of your thoughts. Chuck your chic-chick junk, chic chick. Enlightenment awaits.
10. What's so funny?
Adults tend to put this question to children in a homicidal-sounding snarl, which is probably why as you grew up, your laughter rate dropped from 400 times a day (for toddlers) to the grown-up daily average of 15. Regain your youth by laughing at every possible situation. Then, please, tell us what's funny—about everyday life, about human nature, even about pain and fear. We'll pay you anything.
11. Where am I wrong?
This might well be the most powerful question on our list—as Socrates believed, we gain our first measure of intelligence when we first admit our own ignorance. Your ego wants you to avoid noticing where you may have bad information or unworkable ideas. But you'll gain far more capability and respect by asking where you're wrong than by insisting you're right.
12. What potential memories am I bartering, and is the profit worth the price?
I once read a story about a world where people sold memories the way we can sell plasma. The protagonist was an addict who'd pawned many memories for drugs but had sworn never to sell his memory of falling in love. His addiction won. Afterward he was unaware of his loss, lacking the memory he'd sold. But for the reader, the trade-off was ghastly to contemplate. Every time you choose social acceptance over your heart's desires, or financial gain over ethics, or your comfort zone over the adventure you were born to experience, you're making a similar deal. Don't.
13. Am I the only one struggling not to {fart} during {yoga}?
I felt profoundly liberated when this issue was raised on Saturday Night Live's "Weekend Update." Not everyone does yoga, but SNL reminded me that everyone dreads committing some sort of gaffe. Substitute your greatest shame-fear: crying at work, belching in church, throwing up on the prime minister of Japan. Then know you aren't alone. Everyone worries about such faux pas, and many have committed them (well, maybe not the throwing up on PMs). Accepting this is a bold step toward mental health and a just society.
14. What do I love to practice?
Some psychologists believe that no one is born with any particular talent and that all skill is gained through practice. Studies have shown that masters are simply people who've practiced a skill intensely for 10,000 hours or more. That requires loving—not liking, loving—what you do. If you really want to excel, go where you're passionate enough to practice.
15. Where could I work less and achieve more?
To maximize time spent practicing your passions, minimize everything else. These days you can find machines or human helpers to assist with almost anything. Author Timothy Ferriss "batches" job tasks into his famous "four-hour workweek." My client Cindy has an e-mail ghostwriter. Another client, Angela, hired an assistant in the Philippines who flawlessly tracks her schedule and her investments. Get creative with available resources to find more time in your life and life in your time.
16. How can I keep myself absolutely safe?
Ask this question just to remind yourself of the answer: You can't. Life is inherently uncertain. The way to cope with that reality is not to control and avoid your way into a rigid little demi-life, but to develop courage. Doing what you long to do, despite fear, will accomplish this.
17. Where should I break the rules?
If everyone kept all the rules, we'd still be practicing cherished traditions like child marriage, slavery, and public hangings. The way humans become humane is by assessing from the heart, rather than the rule book, where the justice of a situation lies. Sometimes you have to break the rules around you to keep the rules within you.
18. So say I lived in that fabulous house in Tuscany, with untold wealth, a gorgeous, adoring mate, and a full staff of servants...then what?
We can get so obsessed with acquiring fabulous lives that we forget to live. When my clients ask themselves this question, they almost always discover that their "perfect life" pastimes are already available. Sharing joy with loved ones, spending time in nature, finding inner peace, writing your novel, plotting revenge—you can do all these things right now. Begin!
19. Are my thoughts hurting or healing?
Your situation may endanger your life and limbs, but only your thoughts can endanger your happiness. Telling yourself a miserable mental story about your circumstances creates suffering. Telling yourself a more positive and grateful story, studies show, increases happiness. Wherever you are, whatever you're doing, choose thoughts that knit your heart together, rather than tear it apart.
20. Really truly: Is this what I want to be doing?
It's been several seconds since you asked this. Ask it again. Not to make yourself petulant or frustrated—just to see if it's possible to choose anything, and I mean any little thing, that would make your present experience more delightful. Thus continues the revolution.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
My Name Is Prince.. And I Am More Than Funky!
I just got my Rolling Stone online in my email box and I was almost in tears. The "cover" story includes highlights of the first Prince show from the "Welcome 2 America" tour. That set list had my heart a-flutter.. literally. I just said to a friend, if I had a time machine and could go back.. beg my husband to let me go (that would mean him with the kiddo for a day or so), get tickets and go by myself if I had to.. meet friends I haven't met yet and have the time of my life. I swear I could die happy after seeing this show. I cannot get over it.
Every now and then, Prince decides to try being a normal rock star. You know, the kind who does a professional arena tour where he plays the hits. But part of what makes him such an eternally fascinating star is that he lives in his own private purple world, even when he sets out to make the house quake. He never surrenders his fundamental weirdness. Like his Minnesota homie Bob Dylan, he knows in his heart that nobody wants a standard greatest-hits revue — the mystique is that on any given night, he might bust out anything.
"Anything" is exactly what he delivered last night, on the opening gig of his rabidly anticipated Welcome 2 America tour, at New Jersey's Izod Center. He had the crowd panting as soon as he hit the stage, rocking a seriously cool black leather trench coat and glitter in his hair. He blazed away on guitar to his new theme song, "Laydown," featuring the immortal words, "From the heart of Minnesota / Here comes the purple Yoda!" At that point, all the crowd wanted was more Prince. So naturally, he fled the stage to make his three backup singers handle the next song by themselves. (They failed.) He's a weird guy, all right.
His voice, guitar, and dance moves kept astonishing. He wailed "The Beautiful Ones" at the piano, as a ballerina in a feathery tutu came onstage to piroutte all around him. "U Got the Look" was an ass-flattening funk jam, featuring a Chuck Berry-style guitar break. He came out in red pajamas to kick off the encore with "Kiss," playing with the lyrics to sing, "You don't have to watch 'The L Word' to have an attitude!" The night ended with a master jam mixing snippets of cult-fave deep cuts — "Controversy," "Sexy Dancer," "Housequake" — along with Chic's "Le Freak." His Purple Majesty was in a remarkably outgoing mood. During "If I Was Your Girlfriend," he even asked the audience to wave their cellphones in the air — and this from the high-strung artist who famously used to ban cellphones at his concerts. But he did all the crowd-pleasing gestures — asking fans to sing along, calling for hands in the air — while shying away from his crowd-pleasing songs. It didn't always work. After saying he wanted to kick it "old school," he abandoned "Uptown" after one verse, then did the same thing to "Raspberry Beret." But a little later, he left the stage again as his backup singers did an interminable version of Sarah McLachlan's "Angel." (As a Lilith Fair nostalgia move, this couldn't hold a candle to his 1996 cover of Joan Osborne's "One of Us.")
The undeniable highlight came at the end of the main set when he torched up "Adore," the slow-burning seven-minute climax from Sign O' the Times. Not only did he do the song all the way through, he did it to death. He let the audience carry the whole first verse, then stepped to the piano, visibly blinking back tears (in the spotlight, of course). He was writhing on top of the piano by the second verse, inviting his girl to burn up his clothes and "smash up my Bentley," then seguing into an extended guitar rumination on "Purple Rain." It was unbelievably great. Do you go to a Prince show for predictable consistency? Ah, no. You go for moments of divinely inspired madness — and last night, he delivered as many of those as a fan could expect.
Set List
"Laydown"
"Black Muse"
"The Beautiful Ones"
Medley: "Uptown" / "Raspberry Beret" / "Cream" Medley: "Cool" / "Let's Work" "U Got The Look"
"Shhh" "Angel" (Sarah McLachlan cover)
"Nothing Compares 2 U"
"She's Always In My Hair"
"If I Was Your Girlfriend"
"Insatiable"
"Scandalous"
"Adore"
"Purple Rain"
Encore
"Kiss"
"Sometimes It Snows In April"
"Diamonds And Pearls"
Medley: "All The Critics Love U In New York" / "Controversy" / "Sexy Dancer" / "Le Freak" (Chic cover) / "Housequake"
POSTED: December 16, 9:09 AM EDT | By Rob Sheffield
Prince's Night of Divinely Inspired Madness
Every now and then, Prince decides to try being a normal rock star. You know, the kind who does a professional arena tour where he plays the hits. But part of what makes him such an eternally fascinating star is that he lives in his own private purple world, even when he sets out to make the house quake. He never surrenders his fundamental weirdness. Like his Minnesota homie Bob Dylan, he knows in his heart that nobody wants a standard greatest-hits revue — the mystique is that on any given night, he might bust out anything."Anything" is exactly what he delivered last night, on the opening gig of his rabidly anticipated Welcome 2 America tour, at New Jersey's Izod Center. He had the crowd panting as soon as he hit the stage, rocking a seriously cool black leather trench coat and glitter in his hair. He blazed away on guitar to his new theme song, "Laydown," featuring the immortal words, "From the heart of Minnesota / Here comes the purple Yoda!" At that point, all the crowd wanted was more Prince. So naturally, he fled the stage to make his three backup singers handle the next song by themselves. (They failed.) He's a weird guy, all right.
His voice, guitar, and dance moves kept astonishing. He wailed "The Beautiful Ones" at the piano, as a ballerina in a feathery tutu came onstage to piroutte all around him. "U Got the Look" was an ass-flattening funk jam, featuring a Chuck Berry-style guitar break. He came out in red pajamas to kick off the encore with "Kiss," playing with the lyrics to sing, "You don't have to watch 'The L Word' to have an attitude!" The night ended with a master jam mixing snippets of cult-fave deep cuts — "Controversy," "Sexy Dancer," "Housequake" — along with Chic's "Le Freak." His Purple Majesty was in a remarkably outgoing mood. During "If I Was Your Girlfriend," he even asked the audience to wave their cellphones in the air — and this from the high-strung artist who famously used to ban cellphones at his concerts. But he did all the crowd-pleasing gestures — asking fans to sing along, calling for hands in the air — while shying away from his crowd-pleasing songs. It didn't always work. After saying he wanted to kick it "old school," he abandoned "Uptown" after one verse, then did the same thing to "Raspberry Beret." But a little later, he left the stage again as his backup singers did an interminable version of Sarah McLachlan's "Angel." (As a Lilith Fair nostalgia move, this couldn't hold a candle to his 1996 cover of Joan Osborne's "One of Us.")
The undeniable highlight came at the end of the main set when he torched up "Adore," the slow-burning seven-minute climax from Sign O' the Times. Not only did he do the song all the way through, he did it to death. He let the audience carry the whole first verse, then stepped to the piano, visibly blinking back tears (in the spotlight, of course). He was writhing on top of the piano by the second verse, inviting his girl to burn up his clothes and "smash up my Bentley," then seguing into an extended guitar rumination on "Purple Rain." It was unbelievably great. Do you go to a Prince show for predictable consistency? Ah, no. You go for moments of divinely inspired madness — and last night, he delivered as many of those as a fan could expect.
Set List
"Laydown"
"Black Muse"
"The Beautiful Ones"
Medley: "Uptown" / "Raspberry Beret" / "Cream" Medley: "Cool" / "Let's Work" "U Got The Look"
"Shhh" "Angel" (Sarah McLachlan cover)
"Nothing Compares 2 U"
"She's Always In My Hair"
"If I Was Your Girlfriend"
"Insatiable"
"Scandalous"
"Adore"
"Purple Rain"
Encore
"Kiss"
"Sometimes It Snows In April"
"Diamonds And Pearls"
Medley: "All The Critics Love U In New York" / "Controversy" / "Sexy Dancer" / "Le Freak" (Chic cover) / "Housequake"
Sunday, November 14, 2010
NaBloPoMo?
Did I mention how hard it is to write every day?
This weekend was crazy. Started out awesome.. great Friday, beautiful weather, etc., etc. Things were going my way. The universe seemed to like me. I was looking ahead to a scheduled, but not so busy weekend. I should have recognized the trap.
I scheduled our Holiday picture photo shoot early this year, like this weekend. I was very proud of myself, calling to get the appointment at the time close to what I wanted at one of the studios close to where we live (versus the 25 minute drive to the mall in the 'burbs). It was all set. I knew what we were all wearing, told the husband, everything was a go.
Saturday morning comes. We are all tired, but in good spirits. Got dressed as if we're going to a Christmas ball and head over to the studio. "We have a breakdown," my husband tells me as I step out of the elevator (we took separate cars due to more of my brilliant planning to get Jackie home for her nap on time). I was perplexed. A breakdown? What could have happened?
"We have you down for tomorrow morning," the manager says. TOMORROW? WHAT? The Universe had turned its back on me.
Come to find out either someone told me the wrong day or my mind played a trick on me once again and I THOUGHT she said Saturday, but it was indeed Sunday. There was no place to fit us in, no cancellations. Oh, one while we were standing there, but at noon. No can do.
Both mornings of my weekend were basically screwed now. I would miss running one of those days due to this craziness not to mention attempting to sleep in. Plus, we were risking Jackie being in a bad mood the next day. I wish I hadn't thought it.
We get thru Saturday, have a good date night (but not such a good movie) and do it all over again Sunday morning--same outfits and all.
I was ready for a good shoot; tried to put things in perspective that we were doing this WAY early so we'd have December to relax, or at least not rush.. or at least not have something else to do.
Ended up the photographer that I was promised wasn't that great. This "manager-type person" supposedly got promoted from the other studio because she was so great. Really? I know it's early on a Sunday and I know your other manager gave me a $50 credit for the problems yesterday, but can you have some personality for my daughter? How about not making me do all the work to get her to smile. I thought we were paying YOU to do that job. Oh, and how about having props that weren't damaged so the pictures would look somewhat professional?
Thankfully we got a few good shots so we could make our Holiday cards elsewhere, but they basically lost over $100 from us due to all these issues. Look, I take responsibility that I may have, probably, made the mistake about the day, but there's no excuse for a child photographer to not have a personality and to make our session not-so-fun.
Luckily that was our last session of our membership so we really made out well on the package, along with the credit I received, but this is why I did NOT want to go to this studio. I should have gone with my gut.
The good news? Our holiday cards are ordered and should be here in a week. I wonder if I'll beat my record of getting our cards out before December 1?
Either way, is that a good excuse on why I didn't write over the past couple days? It should be :)
This weekend was crazy. Started out awesome.. great Friday, beautiful weather, etc., etc. Things were going my way. The universe seemed to like me. I was looking ahead to a scheduled, but not so busy weekend. I should have recognized the trap.
I scheduled our Holiday picture photo shoot early this year, like this weekend. I was very proud of myself, calling to get the appointment at the time close to what I wanted at one of the studios close to where we live (versus the 25 minute drive to the mall in the 'burbs). It was all set. I knew what we were all wearing, told the husband, everything was a go.
Saturday morning comes. We are all tired, but in good spirits. Got dressed as if we're going to a Christmas ball and head over to the studio. "We have a breakdown," my husband tells me as I step out of the elevator (we took separate cars due to more of my brilliant planning to get Jackie home for her nap on time). I was perplexed. A breakdown? What could have happened?
"We have you down for tomorrow morning," the manager says. TOMORROW? WHAT? The Universe had turned its back on me.
Come to find out either someone told me the wrong day or my mind played a trick on me once again and I THOUGHT she said Saturday, but it was indeed Sunday. There was no place to fit us in, no cancellations. Oh, one while we were standing there, but at noon. No can do.
Both mornings of my weekend were basically screwed now. I would miss running one of those days due to this craziness not to mention attempting to sleep in. Plus, we were risking Jackie being in a bad mood the next day. I wish I hadn't thought it.
We get thru Saturday, have a good date night (but not such a good movie) and do it all over again Sunday morning--same outfits and all.
I was ready for a good shoot; tried to put things in perspective that we were doing this WAY early so we'd have December to relax, or at least not rush.. or at least not have something else to do.
Ended up the photographer that I was promised wasn't that great. This "manager-type person" supposedly got promoted from the other studio because she was so great. Really? I know it's early on a Sunday and I know your other manager gave me a $50 credit for the problems yesterday, but can you have some personality for my daughter? How about not making me do all the work to get her to smile. I thought we were paying YOU to do that job. Oh, and how about having props that weren't damaged so the pictures would look somewhat professional?
Thankfully we got a few good shots so we could make our Holiday cards elsewhere, but they basically lost over $100 from us due to all these issues. Look, I take responsibility that I may have, probably, made the mistake about the day, but there's no excuse for a child photographer to not have a personality and to make our session not-so-fun.
Luckily that was our last session of our membership so we really made out well on the package, along with the credit I received, but this is why I did NOT want to go to this studio. I should have gone with my gut.
The good news? Our holiday cards are ordered and should be here in a week. I wonder if I'll beat my record of getting our cards out before December 1?
Either way, is that a good excuse on why I didn't write over the past couple days? It should be :)
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Roller Coaster
Wow. I was just in the best mood! Finally got outside, sun was shining (now it's pitch black 1 hour later), and I was about to get a ton of stuff done.. then.. the dreaded text that DH has to stay late and I have a commitment before he's expected home.
I was going to post this for how I'm feeling.
Now it's this.
HAHA! Have fun!!
I was going to post this for how I'm feeling.
Now it's this.
HAHA! Have fun!!
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Shoulda, Coulda, Woulda
Written by who knows but this is great!
"Too many people put off something that brings them joy just because they
haven't thought about it, don't have it on their schedule, didn't know it
was coming or are too rigid to depart from their routine.
I got to thinking one day about all those people on the Titanic who
passed up dessert at dinner that fateful night in an effort to cut back.
From then on, I've tried to be a little more flexible.
How many women out there will eat at home because their husband didn't
suggest going out to dinner until after something had been thawed? Does
the word 'refrigeration' mean nothing to you?
How often have your kids dropped in to talk and sat in silence while you
watched 'Jeopardy' on television?
I cannot count the times I called my sister and said , 'How about going
to lunch in a half hour?' She would gas up and stammer, 'I can't. I have
clothes on the line. My hair is dirty. I wish I had known yesterday, I
had a late breakfast, It looks like rain' And my personal favorite: 'It's
Monday.' She died a few years ago. We never did have lunch together.
Because Americans cram so much into their lives, we tend to schedule our
headaches. We live on a sparse diet of promises we make to ourselves
when all the conditions are perfect!
We'll go back and visit the grandparents when we get Steve
toilet-trained. We'll entertain when we replace the living-room carpet.
We'll go on a second honeymoon when we get two more kids out of college.
Life has a way of accelerating as we get older. The days get shorter, and
the list of promises to ourselves gets longer. One morning, we awaken,
and all we have to show for our lives is a litany of 'I'm going to,' 'I
plan on,' and 'Someday’ when things are settled down a bit.'
When anyone calls my 'seize the moment' friend, she is open to adventure
and available for trips. She keeps an open mind on new ideas. Her
enthusiasm for life is contagious. You talk with her for five minutes,
and you're ready to trade your bad feet for a pair of Rollerblades and
skip an elevator for a bungee cord.
My lips have not touched ice cream in 10 years. I love ice cream. It's
just that I might as well apply it directly to my stomach with a spatula
and eliminate the digestive process. The other day, I stopped the car and
bought a triple-dip. If my car had hit an iceberg on the way home, I
would have died happy.
Now...go on and have a nice day. Do something you WANT to...not something
on your SHOULD DO list. If you were going to die soon and had only one
phone call you could make, who would you call and what would you say? And
why are you waiting?
Have you ever watched kids playing on a merry go round or listened to the
rain lapping on the ground? Ever followed a butterfly's erratic flight or
gazed at the sun into the fading night? Do you run through each day on
the fly? When you ask 'How are you?' Do you hear the reply?
When the day is done, do you lie in your bed with the next hundred chores
running through your head? Ever told your child, 'We'll do it tomorrow.'
And in your haste, not see his sorrow? Ever lost touch? Let a good
friendship die? Just call to say 'Hi'?
When you worry and hurry through your day, it is like an unopened
gift....Thrown away.... Life is not a race. Take it slower. Hear the
music before the song is over."
To those who are reading this, I cherish our connection and appreciate
all you do. We have some history together.
'Life may not be the party we hoped for... but while we are here we might
as well dance!'
"Too many people put off something that brings them joy just because they
haven't thought about it, don't have it on their schedule, didn't know it
was coming or are too rigid to depart from their routine.
I got to thinking one day about all those people on the Titanic who
passed up dessert at dinner that fateful night in an effort to cut back.
From then on, I've tried to be a little more flexible.
How many women out there will eat at home because their husband didn't
suggest going out to dinner until after something had been thawed? Does
the word 'refrigeration' mean nothing to you?
How often have your kids dropped in to talk and sat in silence while you
watched 'Jeopardy' on television?
I cannot count the times I called my sister and said , 'How about going
to lunch in a half hour?' She would gas up and stammer, 'I can't. I have
clothes on the line. My hair is dirty. I wish I had known yesterday, I
had a late breakfast, It looks like rain' And my personal favorite: 'It's
Monday.' She died a few years ago. We never did have lunch together.
Because Americans cram so much into their lives, we tend to schedule our
headaches. We live on a sparse diet of promises we make to ourselves
when all the conditions are perfect!
We'll go back and visit the grandparents when we get Steve
toilet-trained. We'll entertain when we replace the living-room carpet.
We'll go on a second honeymoon when we get two more kids out of college.
Life has a way of accelerating as we get older. The days get shorter, and
the list of promises to ourselves gets longer. One morning, we awaken,
and all we have to show for our lives is a litany of 'I'm going to,' 'I
plan on,' and 'Someday’ when things are settled down a bit.'
When anyone calls my 'seize the moment' friend, she is open to adventure
and available for trips. She keeps an open mind on new ideas. Her
enthusiasm for life is contagious. You talk with her for five minutes,
and you're ready to trade your bad feet for a pair of Rollerblades and
skip an elevator for a bungee cord.
My lips have not touched ice cream in 10 years. I love ice cream. It's
just that I might as well apply it directly to my stomach with a spatula
and eliminate the digestive process. The other day, I stopped the car and
bought a triple-dip. If my car had hit an iceberg on the way home, I
would have died happy.
Now...go on and have a nice day. Do something you WANT to...not something
on your SHOULD DO list. If you were going to die soon and had only one
phone call you could make, who would you call and what would you say? And
why are you waiting?
Have you ever watched kids playing on a merry go round or listened to the
rain lapping on the ground? Ever followed a butterfly's erratic flight or
gazed at the sun into the fading night? Do you run through each day on
the fly? When you ask 'How are you?' Do you hear the reply?
When the day is done, do you lie in your bed with the next hundred chores
running through your head? Ever told your child, 'We'll do it tomorrow.'
And in your haste, not see his sorrow? Ever lost touch? Let a good
friendship die? Just call to say 'Hi'?
When you worry and hurry through your day, it is like an unopened
gift....Thrown away.... Life is not a race. Take it slower. Hear the
music before the song is over."
To those who are reading this, I cherish our connection and appreciate
all you do. We have some history together.
'Life may not be the party we hoped for... but while we are here we might
as well dance!'
Monday, November 8, 2010
An Open Letter to...
Me and Dane Cook, November 6, 2010
I considered posting my letter/email that I wrote to Dane Cook early this morning, but within the next moment I decided not to. It's a personal letter and one that he only should read. I will post my thoughts on why I wrote the letter below.. enjoy :)
****
I find it amazing how shows and people (artists, comedians) affect me. I've seen Dane six times over the years and met him three. Each performance I take away something different. This past weekend the show we enjoyed at Mohegan Sun in CT was one of the best I'd seen. As I wrote to him, I still can't put my finger on why it was that way, but whatever it was, he killed, the crowd loved it and I was back in love with his comedy again.
It didn't hurt that I got to chat with him afterward and give him my personal congrats. He's a great guy, that Dane Cook. He gets a lot of flack about his comedy. I am never sure why. Many people literally hate it--and him. I think a lot of people think he sold out or just uses his looks to rake in fans and fill seats, but in all honesty, if he wasn't good, no one would show up. I know many good looking and charismatic musicians.. you don't see all of them filling arenas every night due to their good looks.
His comedy is different, I guess you could say. He's a storyteller. I happen to like that. I love a lot of different types of comedy from the snip-its of Mitch Hedburg or Steven Wright, to the storytelling of Bill Cosby and Dane Cook. Either way, I give him a lot of props.
The guy works hard. You can't take that away from him and he's humble. I think that's why I love him so much. Not only for his comedy and how he tells it, but for who he is as a person. There's not many people in this world who I consider inspiring--he is one of them. As I was reflecting last night on the handful of people that do inspire me, all of them are quite different. Different ways of being, different careers, but all have many of the same qualities. They are authentic, risk takers and never give up. Most are humble in their ways, passionate about what they do, and in turn, tend to inspire so many other people by who they are. These are people you just want to be around all the time. I'm actually having "withdrawals" two days after the fact as I'm just "hungry" for that energy. That feeling of being totally accepted by a person, loved, listened to.. being in the presence of someone who is present. It's so awesome.
Being with him and some of the other folks the other night reminded me that I want to be that type of person. I'm always fairly hard on myself so who knows? I may be that for some now, but I feel I have a ways to go. I'm definitely feeling the urge to start something new, to find my calling and to re-find the things that truly light me up. Many of those things have been gone, missing, for some time and it's time to get them back.
I will say publicly that I still have a dream to work with Dane on a professional basis. There was a point a few years ago where I was actively pursuing this. I was working with some folks regarding my resume and writing a letter to him to introduce myself not as a fan, but as a person he'd be interested in working with. Nothing ever happened with all that (as in a job), but after I spoke with him Saturday night, all that came flooding back. One small issue is that he's in LA and I'm in Boston with a family, but odder things have happened.
***
2010 has been some year. I was thinking about that in the car just a few minutes ago and realized, although some of it was rough, my husband, my daughter and I really had an amazing 2010. I wouldn't have guessed that I'd start the year dancing in negative temps on a rooftop in Minneapolis. I also wouldn't have guessed that my husband and I would spend a three day weekend without our daughter at a music festival in Austin, and I definitely wouldn't have guessed I'd be seeing Dane and Al backstage last Saturday, all with huge hugs and fun conversations. I WANT more of that type of stuff. Surprises that come out of no where and hug you.. not the one's that knock you down, but a quick surprise and hug is nice.
I still have a month and a half to create what I want, not only for 2011, but for the rest of this year! I can dream all I want, but action is what will make it happen.. onward and upward, as they say.. here we go.
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Glee
No I'm not talking about the show, I'm talking about what I'm filled with :)
I missed writing again yesterday. I was proud of myself on many levels, but totally forgot to write. I was able to get a bit of sleep as my little one is still recouping a bit from her MMR shot. Poor kid. I think I will call her doc tomorrow just to check to see if this excessive sleeping is normal. Or I could just enjoy it and move on :)
I got a 4 mile run in (training for a 10K now) yesterday morning and then got ready to head to CT. Why CT? Well, one of my favorite comics, or two of them, were playing at Mohegan Sun arena last night, Dane Cook and Al Del Bene. I've followed these guys since 2001 and it's been a blast watching them evolve. It also doesn't hurt that I get the VIP treatment just about every time I see them and it's even better when Al is on tour with Dane :) Because I know Al from the small venue level, he's really good to me. I can honestly say that I'm his #1 fan. He will attest to that. Over the years, I've gotten people to listen to his stuff, started fan pages and all that stuff. He's very appreciative. Due to all that, he was able to get my friend and I back stage and it was a blast. I love seeing him and Dane also now knows me by name and it's such an honor. We got to hug, chat, laugh.. just an amazing night.
I will post pics later as I didn't get to upload them yet, but wanted to get this note in before I left.. heading to an in-store performance of a past-local-Boston-musician-now-turned-LA-musician, Bleu. I love knowing these guys for years.. makes me feel oh so important :)
I missed writing again yesterday. I was proud of myself on many levels, but totally forgot to write. I was able to get a bit of sleep as my little one is still recouping a bit from her MMR shot. Poor kid. I think I will call her doc tomorrow just to check to see if this excessive sleeping is normal. Or I could just enjoy it and move on :)
I got a 4 mile run in (training for a 10K now) yesterday morning and then got ready to head to CT. Why CT? Well, one of my favorite comics, or two of them, were playing at Mohegan Sun arena last night, Dane Cook and Al Del Bene. I've followed these guys since 2001 and it's been a blast watching them evolve. It also doesn't hurt that I get the VIP treatment just about every time I see them and it's even better when Al is on tour with Dane :) Because I know Al from the small venue level, he's really good to me. I can honestly say that I'm his #1 fan. He will attest to that. Over the years, I've gotten people to listen to his stuff, started fan pages and all that stuff. He's very appreciative. Due to all that, he was able to get my friend and I back stage and it was a blast. I love seeing him and Dane also now knows me by name and it's such an honor. We got to hug, chat, laugh.. just an amazing night.
I will post pics later as I didn't get to upload them yet, but wanted to get this note in before I left.. heading to an in-store performance of a past-local-Boston-musician-now-turned-LA-musician, Bleu. I love knowing these guys for years.. makes me feel oh so important :)
Thursday, November 4, 2010
GAH!
That seems to be the word of the day most days the past few weeks. I've avoided writing, or really put it off, because I've had so much to say and wanted to have the time to write. But as it always happens, I'm either not in the mood, don't have time, am tired, or something comes up. Today seemed like a good day. It's raining, I have some time at home with the little one and I'm feeling energized. Could be that me and that kid slept thru my alarm for this morning's nap so we got 2.5 hours rest. Feels like old times :)
Not sure how much I'm going to write, but there have been a few things on my mind. Mostly, I'm still feeling regrets about Halloween 2010. The weekend itself was fairly busy. I had a nice pasta dinner Friday night at "Bab's" house as I was running my first 5K on Saturday. The run happened in the morning, then went to brunch and just had some downtime at home on Saturday. We were planning on going to something Halloween-y that night, but I was so exhausted from all the training and the actual run that we put it off. Sunday, Halloween, came.. and went. My DH went to the Vikings/Patriots game and was gone all day. I had already said that we weren't going to dress Jackie up that day and trick or treat as she's still too small and I didn't want to end up eating all the candy. In the end, Jackie and I spent time with our wonderful friends (who just happen to be neighbors) and handed out candy to the kids. That night, I had remorse and was really bummed out, mostly because I realized we didn't do much for my favorite holiday or showed Jackie some cool stuff.
Halloween 2009 was great. I was in a few groups with Jackie so I had three outfits for her over that week. It was a blast and I thought that was the start of some fun Halloweens with her over the years. Why this year turned out the way it did, I'm really not sure. I know there were several times I chose not to do things (carve a pumpkin, paint pumpkins, go see the lit pumpkin exhibit in RI, watch the movie "Halloween," etc.), but I didn't think about the repercussions on me emotionally. In all honesty, I had been focused on my race on the 30th and seeing that there was a costume contest scheduled on that day, I thought that would do it. Little did I know, we weren't able to find out much about it, even when we got to the Y (where the race was held) and so nothing really happened there (other than dressing her up and taking some pictures).
With all that being said, I did reflect and realized something. Now that I'm getting older, but mostly now that I have a kid, most things only happen once. Although I can look ahead and assume there would be another Halloween, why wouldn't I just take what is in front of me now and enjoy it?
I've also been thinking a lot about my age and not putting things off. It's actually good as it's forced us (my family) to do things we may put off "for a better day." I also realized that my husband and I had a habit of putting fun things off a lot even before Jackie was born. We've dated for 10 years (married 7) and we never did the type traveling I wanted to do, didn't go skiing outside of the East Coast like I wanted to do, and a number of other things. As with most couples, we were focused on the next day, month or year.. we were trying to have a baby for about 4 of those years, but it still would have been great if we took on those things so there were no regrets.
Although we can do those things now, obviously it's a bit more complicated and expensive. The best I can do currently is learn from all this and move on. The biggest thing, though, is to be responsible with my sleep, as I know when I get enough I can plow thru anything and actually enjoy it :)
I guess it's time to accept what's so, move on from Halloween 2010 and enjoy the days ahead. For example, we have Thanksgiving plans at one of my best buds house and that should be a lot of fun. We've spent a number of Thanksgiving's with just us so this will be a nice change.
Moving on also means finding (or re-finding) things that I enjoy. It's been put off for way too long. I tend to get reminded of a "talk" from a very powerful leader when I have issues with relationships and regrets. He said to us: "How many of you have relationship issues?" For those in the room it was about 75% of us. He just smiled and said: "Then you don't have big enough problems."
I think it's time to create some big "problems" and find the joy in those for a while. The rest of 2010 and 2011 will be about finding joy and fulfillment in the things that I miss dearly: playing music, dancing, laughing and sun! :) And who knows, there may be some politics thrown in there too :)
Here's to no regrets!!
Not sure how much I'm going to write, but there have been a few things on my mind. Mostly, I'm still feeling regrets about Halloween 2010. The weekend itself was fairly busy. I had a nice pasta dinner Friday night at "Bab's" house as I was running my first 5K on Saturday. The run happened in the morning, then went to brunch and just had some downtime at home on Saturday. We were planning on going to something Halloween-y that night, but I was so exhausted from all the training and the actual run that we put it off. Sunday, Halloween, came.. and went. My DH went to the Vikings/Patriots game and was gone all day. I had already said that we weren't going to dress Jackie up that day and trick or treat as she's still too small and I didn't want to end up eating all the candy. In the end, Jackie and I spent time with our wonderful friends (who just happen to be neighbors) and handed out candy to the kids. That night, I had remorse and was really bummed out, mostly because I realized we didn't do much for my favorite holiday or showed Jackie some cool stuff.
Halloween 2009 was great. I was in a few groups with Jackie so I had three outfits for her over that week. It was a blast and I thought that was the start of some fun Halloweens with her over the years. Why this year turned out the way it did, I'm really not sure. I know there were several times I chose not to do things (carve a pumpkin, paint pumpkins, go see the lit pumpkin exhibit in RI, watch the movie "Halloween," etc.), but I didn't think about the repercussions on me emotionally. In all honesty, I had been focused on my race on the 30th and seeing that there was a costume contest scheduled on that day, I thought that would do it. Little did I know, we weren't able to find out much about it, even when we got to the Y (where the race was held) and so nothing really happened there (other than dressing her up and taking some pictures).
With all that being said, I did reflect and realized something. Now that I'm getting older, but mostly now that I have a kid, most things only happen once. Although I can look ahead and assume there would be another Halloween, why wouldn't I just take what is in front of me now and enjoy it?
I've also been thinking a lot about my age and not putting things off. It's actually good as it's forced us (my family) to do things we may put off "for a better day." I also realized that my husband and I had a habit of putting fun things off a lot even before Jackie was born. We've dated for 10 years (married 7) and we never did the type traveling I wanted to do, didn't go skiing outside of the East Coast like I wanted to do, and a number of other things. As with most couples, we were focused on the next day, month or year.. we were trying to have a baby for about 4 of those years, but it still would have been great if we took on those things so there were no regrets.
Although we can do those things now, obviously it's a bit more complicated and expensive. The best I can do currently is learn from all this and move on. The biggest thing, though, is to be responsible with my sleep, as I know when I get enough I can plow thru anything and actually enjoy it :)
I guess it's time to accept what's so, move on from Halloween 2010 and enjoy the days ahead. For example, we have Thanksgiving plans at one of my best buds house and that should be a lot of fun. We've spent a number of Thanksgiving's with just us so this will be a nice change.
Moving on also means finding (or re-finding) things that I enjoy. It's been put off for way too long. I tend to get reminded of a "talk" from a very powerful leader when I have issues with relationships and regrets. He said to us: "How many of you have relationship issues?" For those in the room it was about 75% of us. He just smiled and said: "Then you don't have big enough problems."
I think it's time to create some big "problems" and find the joy in those for a while. The rest of 2010 and 2011 will be about finding joy and fulfillment in the things that I miss dearly: playing music, dancing, laughing and sun! :) And who knows, there may be some politics thrown in there too :)
Here's to no regrets!!
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
If I Had A Million Dollars...
I received my TwitterMoms newsletter today that included a commenting contest. Seeing that I've thought about this question a lot, I thought I would answer it AND post it here :) It was fun to think about and who knows? I may win a $100 gift card to Amazon.com!
Q: What would you do if you suddenly woke up and had $1 Million?
First, I'd stop myself from fainting. Second, I would check my bank account to make sure the money was actually mine :) After all that, I'd celebrate and do the following!
*Plan an amazing evening and surprise my husband with a limo picking him up from work and bringing us to a great meal (with our new nanny watching our daughter of course :)
*Pay off our mortgage so we could live where we really want to live. Dream big, but live humbly.
*Plan a family and friend reunion and pay for all to attend. Preferably somewhere warm.
*Get myself into law school.
*Meet all the celebrities I've ever wanted to meet and let them know how much they have influenced and inspired my life.
*Open a music school for kids that includes lessons, day care, music therapy.
*Give a large chunk to Save the Music Foundation and other notable charities.
*Literally travel the world (and finally get to participate in the African Safari I've wanted to do for 15 years!).
*Most of all, enjoy life the way I dream life to be.. relax, love and laugh.. a lot :)
Q: What would you do if you suddenly woke up and had $1 Million?
First, I'd stop myself from fainting. Second, I would check my bank account to make sure the money was actually mine :) After all that, I'd celebrate and do the following!
*Plan an amazing evening and surprise my husband with a limo picking him up from work and bringing us to a great meal (with our new nanny watching our daughter of course :)
*Pay off our mortgage so we could live where we really want to live. Dream big, but live humbly.
*Plan a family and friend reunion and pay for all to attend. Preferably somewhere warm.
*Get myself into law school.
*Meet all the celebrities I've ever wanted to meet and let them know how much they have influenced and inspired my life.
*Open a music school for kids that includes lessons, day care, music therapy.
*Give a large chunk to Save the Music Foundation and other notable charities.
*Literally travel the world (and finally get to participate in the African Safari I've wanted to do for 15 years!).
*Most of all, enjoy life the way I dream life to be.. relax, love and laugh.. a lot :)
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Are You Ready for Some Football?!?!
Ahhh Football Season. How I love thee.. let's not count the ways.
Every year at this time, my husband has that gleam in his eye, huge smile about his face.. and the jerseys come out to play. That's how I know it's Football Season. Well, actually, I know a bit earlier as he watches the draft in the Summer and runs a Fantasy Football League that starts in August, but I mostly know when there's the first Thursday game and he's counting down the days (or minutes) till kick off.
It's always been a mixed blessing for me. I definitely like my "me" time and this extra time has allowed me to do things I wouldn't normally do, or basically I don't have to "ask" to go do whatever it was because he was in front of the TV all day on Sunday watching games. But now, things have changed a bit due to Jax.
For example, last year was interesting. Jax was a newborn and I basically thought I'd be imprisoned here in the condo, forced to watch football on the only TV we have, while waiting to see when she wanted to be fed. It turned out that my DH was more than willing to share time, and in fact, she was with him upstairs at our neighbors much of the season. (So, yes, people that are anti-TV, my little, baby daughter logged over 100 hours of prime time sacks, but at least Mom got some time to chill out!) Granted she slept a lot of the time, but overall, it was good for everyone.
Fast forward to this year, we now have a full-blown Toddler (yes, the capital T is intentional). She's still awesome as ever, but now, really doesn't sleep 20 hours a day. She's got her naps, but this year will be challenging. Luckily, my DH's best football buddy is also our upstairs neighbor, so that means she's there, or she's sleeping here in our place while he has the monitor upstairs (yup, we have a small place).
In the end, it really says a lot about our partnership and marriage. Rarely do either of us say no to requests and when a "no" does come up, it's discussed. It still may be a mixed blessing and I'll continue to get some of my "me" time, such as tonight. Baby is sleeping, DH is upstairs--I get to write a blog. Not that it wouldn't have happened anyway, but hearing the crickets outside our window on this almost Fall night vs. hearing screaming fans on TV and watching my husband be Jr. Field Ref makes it a much easier environment to write in.
Part of me feels badly by writing all this.. I don't mean to make my husband look horrible in any way. Football is his passion and I'm glad he has one. I've got my own passions (or heavy likes) and 99% of the time I get to do them, even during football season. I am very lucky that I have a man that respects my time and space (seeing that we live in such a small one), so I really can't complain.
Luckily for him though, the Red Sox season is basically over (don't even talk to me about that) so sharing the TV after a couple weeks won't be much of a problem and we won't have to throw down to determine who will watch what at what time. But like I said: "mixed blessing." I'll continue to create "being surprised" at what may come up this season and maybe I'll have that gleam in my eye and smile on my face sometime this Fall, but unfortunately for my DH, it won't be about football :) Sorry, honey!
Every year at this time, my husband has that gleam in his eye, huge smile about his face.. and the jerseys come out to play. That's how I know it's Football Season. Well, actually, I know a bit earlier as he watches the draft in the Summer and runs a Fantasy Football League that starts in August, but I mostly know when there's the first Thursday game and he's counting down the days (or minutes) till kick off.
It's always been a mixed blessing for me. I definitely like my "me" time and this extra time has allowed me to do things I wouldn't normally do, or basically I don't have to "ask" to go do whatever it was because he was in front of the TV all day on Sunday watching games. But now, things have changed a bit due to Jax.
For example, last year was interesting. Jax was a newborn and I basically thought I'd be imprisoned here in the condo, forced to watch football on the only TV we have, while waiting to see when she wanted to be fed. It turned out that my DH was more than willing to share time, and in fact, she was with him upstairs at our neighbors much of the season. (So, yes, people that are anti-TV, my little, baby daughter logged over 100 hours of prime time sacks, but at least Mom got some time to chill out!) Granted she slept a lot of the time, but overall, it was good for everyone.
Fast forward to this year, we now have a full-blown Toddler (yes, the capital T is intentional). She's still awesome as ever, but now, really doesn't sleep 20 hours a day. She's got her naps, but this year will be challenging. Luckily, my DH's best football buddy is also our upstairs neighbor, so that means she's there, or she's sleeping here in our place while he has the monitor upstairs (yup, we have a small place).
In the end, it really says a lot about our partnership and marriage. Rarely do either of us say no to requests and when a "no" does come up, it's discussed. It still may be a mixed blessing and I'll continue to get some of my "me" time, such as tonight. Baby is sleeping, DH is upstairs--I get to write a blog. Not that it wouldn't have happened anyway, but hearing the crickets outside our window on this almost Fall night vs. hearing screaming fans on TV and watching my husband be Jr. Field Ref makes it a much easier environment to write in.
Part of me feels badly by writing all this.. I don't mean to make my husband look horrible in any way. Football is his passion and I'm glad he has one. I've got my own passions (or heavy likes) and 99% of the time I get to do them, even during football season. I am very lucky that I have a man that respects my time and space (seeing that we live in such a small one), so I really can't complain.
Luckily for him though, the Red Sox season is basically over (don't even talk to me about that) so sharing the TV after a couple weeks won't be much of a problem and we won't have to throw down to determine who will watch what at what time. But like I said: "mixed blessing." I'll continue to create "being surprised" at what may come up this season and maybe I'll have that gleam in my eye and smile on my face sometime this Fall, but unfortunately for my DH, it won't be about football :) Sorry, honey!
My Happy and Healthy Contract III
I wrote this August 20 and totally forgot to post it here!
*****
Since July flew by with trips, birthday parties, live shows and just enjoying summer, I realized earlier this month that the fitness goal date I declared was July 1. Not that anyone was keeping track or wondering what happened, but here's the skinny, as it were :)
Main point: I did not meet my goal.
This doesn't "mean" anything, but I do need to declare this. At the time, the goal was doable but aggressive. I know myself well enough to create a more aggressive goal so I at least work at my best to meet it. With all the being said, I'm happy with my results thus far and I've been surprised at myself regarding keeping the goal present and just continuing with the plan—especially running!
I've also found that the Y's "Big Board" of results that Ispoke about before really works for me. Last month, July, was "bad," as I just didn't keep up with the plan. Crazy enough, I still made the board but in the top 40 rather than in the top 5 that I declared back in May.
Here are some of the results (mostly for me, so humor me here). Unfortunately the website can only give me last month's stats and the current month (or this year), so I'll start with July stats. I'll work on getting the other months when I go to the Y next time.
(Fitpoints = combo of activity and cals burned, Fitlinxx awards points)
(Standing = females at my facility only, top 50 listed on board)
JULY
Fitpoints = 3863 (Standing = 44 / 84th percentile)
Calories = 4365 (Standing = 39 / 86th percentile)
AUGUST (current as of 8/20)
Fitpoints = 4329 (Standing 18 / 93rd percentile)
Calories = 4908 (Standing = 23 / 91st percentile)
As you can see, I've already done more work this month than I did all last month. After logging all my info, I saw that I've only missed 2-3 days this month doing no activity. This actually works out if I was to do something at least 6 times a week. YEA!
Below are the updates on my plan.
March 25, 2010 GOAL:
Lose 12 pounds by July 1. Feel good to be in a bikini again:)
AS OF 8.20.10:
Lost 7
This did not change unfortunately since my last posting in June. YIKES! Luckily I haven't gained. I HAVE officially gone down a dress size though and am toning like crazy due to running. This is one of the first times in my life I actually like my thighs :)
NEW GOAL:
Lose 5 pounds by October 1
1. Workout at least 5X per week (min 45 minutes)--work to 6x per week or more. Find times I can actually schedule in calendar.
I have not scheduled everything into my calendar, but have found the initiative to go to the Y, yoga, walk, run outside on my own. This in itself a major win and the same as my last posting. I ran twice while on vacation and did my best to walk places, but we also ate a lot (kudos to the Nook burger in MN :). August has been a better month all around.
2. 50 situps a day minimum.
This has not happened. I have implemented a "star program" where I put a star on the calendar each day I do this. It does encourage me, but I may need to get more in the mode of "situps when I think about it" and see how that goes. April I did extremely well with this. Once I got sick in May, it fell off my radar unless I was at the Y or yoga.
This, too, is the same as the last entry. It's not like I don't have the time to do this so I think I have to schedule it or just do it when I think about it. Probably in the afternoon when Jackie takes her nap.
3. When out walking, etc. do not buy food (drinks are OK if tea or low fat).
Drinks are great here, food not. To make my walks worth it, I need to cut out any sweets here.. tough but doable.
4. Reduce sugar in diet slowly.
This I feel I have done. I don't have much of a craving forsugar, but still need to keep an eye on this and keep track a bit more.
5. Take out sugary breakfasts 2X per week, each week. Allowed one sugary breakfast a week in the end.
Took this out completely and had no issues. Still on track with this.
6. Meet with fitness director at YMCA to go over fit program at gym within next 2 weeks (3 free).
I did this in April and found a great trainer there that I connected with. Went twice and still have the last free one to use. I realized the other day at the gym that I still have my third session to use! Will schedule this ASAP at the Y.. hope to go this weekend.
7. When walking, increase rate of walking. Add additional loop when possible (around neighborhood or walk farther into town).
I don't think I have upped the rate of my walking, but have found alternate routes where I do at least 2 miles on any given walk. Many of the 3-4 mile walks include hills.
8. Look to set up a mom/baby walk once a week to walk with a group.
This has not happened, but it hasn't been an issue as far as not having me walk. This summer has also been very hot and long walks are not so doable. My hope is in the fall I'll get together with more folks to do this.
9. Make sure I have greens at lunch and dinner.
Have not had greens/salads for lunch and dinner. Tends to happen once a day.
10. Focus on healthy meals, even if they need to be quick.
This has been tougher as we tend to eat dinner late. "Healthy" to start would be "make at home." Even mac n' cheese at home (we use organic brands) is better than picking up McDonalds. Continually want to make a food calendar but not inspired to do it. Need suggestions on quick, healthy meals. Please post in comments with ideas.
11. Snack wisely (go for fruits and veggies instead of sugar or processed snacks).
Definitely have been focusing on grabbing fruit, granola bars. Making fruit salad more often. Have been focused on low fat/healthier snacks when needed.
12. Record daily food and activity on the iPhone app I paid for :)
I have not been doing this. I think I have felt OK about food and honestly have been eating much less since I was sick. Bad thing is that I'm not eating if I don't find anything good. Need to have some sort of healthy snack list to go by even if I do have to skip a meal.
Things to add:
* Signup for first 5K!! One listed at Y for October 30!
* Additional weekly yoga
* Additional weekly runs
* Complete my Couch to 5K program on time (doing the program as designed)
* Consider 5K training program included with registration for Y's 5K
Other things I have added and continued:
* Tracking on calendar up in kitchen
* Added "I Just Ran/Walked" app to toolbox
* Stars for ab workouts
* Took on volunteering at yoga studio again so have once a week yoga scheduled
*****
Since July flew by with trips, birthday parties, live shows and just enjoying summer, I realized earlier this month that the fitness goal date I declared was July 1. Not that anyone was keeping track or wondering what happened, but here's the skinny, as it were :)
Main point: I did not meet my goal.
This doesn't "mean" anything, but I do need to declare this. At the time, the goal was doable but aggressive. I know myself well enough to create a more aggressive goal so I at least work at my best to meet it. With all the being said, I'm happy with my results thus far and I've been surprised at myself regarding keeping the goal present and just continuing with the plan—especially running!
I've also found that the Y's "Big Board" of results that Ispoke about before really works for me. Last month, July, was "bad," as I just didn't keep up with the plan. Crazy enough, I still made the board but in the top 40 rather than in the top 5 that I declared back in May.
Here are some of the results (mostly for me, so humor me here). Unfortunately the website can only give me last month's stats and the current month (or this year), so I'll start with July stats. I'll work on getting the other months when I go to the Y next time.
(Fitpoints = combo of activity and cals burned, Fitlinxx awards points)
(Standing = females at my facility only, top 50 listed on board)
JULY
Fitpoints = 3863 (Standing = 44 / 84th percentile)
Calories = 4365 (Standing = 39 / 86th percentile)
AUGUST (current as of 8/20)
Fitpoints = 4329 (Standing 18 / 93rd percentile)
Calories = 4908 (Standing = 23 / 91st percentile)
As you can see, I've already done more work this month than I did all last month. After logging all my info, I saw that I've only missed 2-3 days this month doing no activity. This actually works out if I was to do something at least 6 times a week. YEA!
Below are the updates on my plan.
March 25, 2010 GOAL:
Lose 12 pounds by July 1. Feel good to be in a bikini again:)
AS OF 8.20.10:
Lost 7
This did not change unfortunately since my last posting in June. YIKES! Luckily I haven't gained. I HAVE officially gone down a dress size though and am toning like crazy due to running. This is one of the first times in my life I actually like my thighs :)
NEW GOAL:
Lose 5 pounds by October 1
1. Workout at least 5X per week (min 45 minutes)--work to 6x per week or more. Find times I can actually schedule in calendar.
I have not scheduled everything into my calendar, but have found the initiative to go to the Y, yoga, walk, run outside on my own. This in itself a major win and the same as my last posting. I ran twice while on vacation and did my best to walk places, but we also ate a lot (kudos to the Nook burger in MN :). August has been a better month all around.
2. 50 situps a day minimum.
This has not happened. I have implemented a "star program" where I put a star on the calendar each day I do this. It does encourage me, but I may need to get more in the mode of "situps when I think about it" and see how that goes. April I did extremely well with this. Once I got sick in May, it fell off my radar unless I was at the Y or yoga.
This, too, is the same as the last entry. It's not like I don't have the time to do this so I think I have to schedule it or just do it when I think about it. Probably in the afternoon when Jackie takes her nap.
3. When out walking, etc. do not buy food (drinks are OK if tea or low fat).
Drinks are great here, food not. To make my walks worth it, I need to cut out any sweets here.. tough but doable.
4. Reduce sugar in diet slowly.
This I feel I have done. I don't have much of a craving forsugar, but still need to keep an eye on this and keep track a bit more.
5. Take out sugary breakfasts 2X per week, each week. Allowed one sugary breakfast a week in the end.
Took this out completely and had no issues. Still on track with this.
6. Meet with fitness director at YMCA to go over fit program at gym within next 2 weeks (3 free).
I did this in April and found a great trainer there that I connected with. Went twice and still have the last free one to use. I realized the other day at the gym that I still have my third session to use! Will schedule this ASAP at the Y.. hope to go this weekend.
7. When walking, increase rate of walking. Add additional loop when possible (around neighborhood or walk farther into town).
I don't think I have upped the rate of my walking, but have found alternate routes where I do at least 2 miles on any given walk. Many of the 3-4 mile walks include hills.
8. Look to set up a mom/baby walk once a week to walk with a group.
This has not happened, but it hasn't been an issue as far as not having me walk. This summer has also been very hot and long walks are not so doable. My hope is in the fall I'll get together with more folks to do this.
9. Make sure I have greens at lunch and dinner.
Have not had greens/salads for lunch and dinner. Tends to happen once a day.
10. Focus on healthy meals, even if they need to be quick.
This has been tougher as we tend to eat dinner late. "Healthy" to start would be "make at home." Even mac n' cheese at home (we use organic brands) is better than picking up McDonalds. Continually want to make a food calendar but not inspired to do it. Need suggestions on quick, healthy meals. Please post in comments with ideas.
11. Snack wisely (go for fruits and veggies instead of sugar or processed snacks).
Definitely have been focusing on grabbing fruit, granola bars. Making fruit salad more often. Have been focused on low fat/healthier snacks when needed.
12. Record daily food and activity on the iPhone app I paid for :)
I have not been doing this. I think I have felt OK about food and honestly have been eating much less since I was sick. Bad thing is that I'm not eating if I don't find anything good. Need to have some sort of healthy snack list to go by even if I do have to skip a meal.
Things to add:
* Signup for first 5K!! One listed at Y for October 30!
* Additional weekly yoga
* Additional weekly runs
* Complete my Couch to 5K program on time (doing the program as designed)
* Consider 5K training program included with registration for Y's 5K
Other things I have added and continued:
* Tracking on calendar up in kitchen
* Added "I Just Ran/Walked" app to toolbox
* Stars for ab workouts
* Took on volunteering at yoga studio again so have once a week yoga scheduled
Monday, August 16, 2010
Music Alert
I know I haven't posted here in a while.. which basically that posting today means it's a big deal. As most of you know, music is my best friend and keeps me going most days.
Here's my buddy Bleu's new album to listen to.. if you like pop this is for you, if you don't, listen to it anyway :)
Bleu "Four" by Bleutopia
Here's my buddy Bleu's new album to listen to.. if you like pop this is for you, if you don't, listen to it anyway :)
Bleu "Four" by Bleutopia
Sunday, June 6, 2010
My Happy and Healthy Contract II
**UPDATE**
For once in my life, I feel I am doing extremely well with my plan! I haven’t struggled much at all with my eating and working out, and due to the FitLinxx program at the Y where I can track my workouts, I am finding it fun and energizing!
I’m not sure if I mentioned this in my other note/blog, but the Y has a “Top 25” list in different areas where it’s tracked by FitLinxx. The areas are: CV time, weight lifted, FitPoints and days worked out. I first started tracking in April and although I made the list, I found that I was only burning about 200-300 calories each day by walking (e.g., no lost weight). I’m SO happy that I had the FitLinxx program, as an email mapped it all out and I saw it in black and white. If I didn’t have that info, I would have thought my body was just too old or didn’t have the capacity to lose weight! Can you imagine where I’d be now?? When I saw that, it was obvious, I had to work up my CV to get the weight off. Walking was helpful, but it was only keeping me stable.
What did I decide to do? A running program: Couch to 5K. May not sound too crazy, but for me, it surely was. LONG DISTANCE RUNNING? I’ve always told myself I wasn’t a long distance runner.. I figured out this weekend that I did this due to a coach in Middle School telling me that I was more of a sprinter.. there you go. I never even tried any long distance running as I became good at short distance running and relay. Fast-forward 25+ years later, here I am with a bunch of new moms and babies on a 6 mile walk that ended up 8!! I thought I’d be in rough shape the next day, but all I was, was energized! That one walk totally transformed my way of thinking about my body and what it could do (thanks Shari!). Add in getting new running shoes and a new stroller that is designed for more long distance walks and you have a plan for success!
After reviewing a bunch of the 5K programs out there, it was recommended to me by Sue R. to look at the Couch to 5K program. I decided to download the app for my iPhone and found it a lot of fun! I’m on week 3 (out of 5) right now and I’m not having any issues running. I have done 99% of my training on the treadmill, but even my one run outside didn’t cause me any problems. I’m on my way!
I decided to add the 2010 Turkey Trot on my radar as it’s a 5K and I can definitely get trained for November. It would be nice to find something a bit earlier as it can be really COLD in November in Boston, but I’ll do it if nothing else comes up.
FYI, in April, I made 3 out of 4 categories on the Y’s Big Board.. and all in the top 5! I was floored and very proud. In May, I did the same, but all in the top 20 due to my week of illness and doing nothing for 5-6 days. Either way, I’m extremely proud and am learning very quickly what motivates me (not that I didn’t know), but these include:
• Technology
• Tracking/Stats
• Simple entering of data
• Ease of tracking
• Music (for runs)
• A bit of competition (i.e., Y’s Big Board)
• Clear goals
• Accountability (this blog)
Below are the updates on my plan and possible changes.
March 25, 2010 GOAL:
Lose 12 pounds by July 1. Feel good to be in a bikini again :)
AS OF 6.6.10:
Lost 7
1. Workout at least 5X per week (min 45 minutes)--work to 6x per week or more. Find times I can actually schedule in calendar.
(Workouts include: Wii Fit, Wii FitPlus, Golds Gym Wii game, Let's Dance game, gym cardio workout-machines, gym workout-aerobics, walk with Jackie/others, power yoga)
I have not scheduled everything into my calendar, but have found the initiative to go to the Y, yoga, walk, run outside on my own. This in itself a major win.
-In April, I went out on a walk almost daily. Realized I was not burning the calories I needed to via FitLinxx tracking. Decided to start a running program in May.
-In May I averaged 4X a week, but was out of commission 5-6 days due to illness.
2. 50 situps a day minimum.
This has not happened. I have implemented a “star program” where I put a star on the calendar each day I do this. It does encourage me, but I may need to get more in the mode of “situps when I think about it” and see how that goes. April I did extremely well with this. Once I got sick in May, it fell off my radar unless I was at the Y or yoga.
3. When out walking, etc. do not buy food (drinks are OK if tea or low fat).
I have been up and down with this. April was great. May not so much, but I did research the calorie, fat, etc. chart with Starbucks and I know the cals for my favorite foods and if I do get something, stick with the low cal/low sugar options.
4. Reduce sugar in diet slowly.
This I feel I have done. I don’t have much of a craving for sugar, but still need to keep an eye on this and keep track a bit more.
5. Take out sugary breakfasts 2X per week, each week. Allowed one sugary breakfast a week in the end.
Took this out completely and had no issues.
6. Meet with fitness director at YMCA to go over fit program at gym within next 2 weeks (3 free).
I did this in April and found a great trainer there that I connected with. Went twice and still have the last free one to use. I got set up on the FitLinxx system and use the machines I would normally use for workouts and circuit. Still have to set up other machines I’m not used to using. Will be setting up my last session with Todd to see if I can get any other pointers. Have considered taking on the training sessions if I stabilize at some point, possibly in the Fall.
7. When walking, increase rate of walking. Add additional loop when possible (around neighborhood or walk farther into town).
I don’t think I have upped the rate of my walking, but have found alternate routes where I do at least 2 miles on any given walk. Many of the 3-4 mile walks include hills.
8. Look to set up a mom/baby walk once a week to walk with a group.
This has not happened. It has been quite difficult hooking up with other moms due to various things. I did have a playdate setup with a friend weekly, but due to other circumstances we did not walk each week. Will ask her again to see if she wants to take on a weekly walk or at least twice a month. Will seek out others as weather is continuing to get better.
9. Make sure I have greens at lunch and dinner.
Have not had greens/salads for lunch and dinner. Tends to happen once a day.
10. Focus on healthy meals, even if they need to be quick.
This has been tougher as we tend to eat dinner late. “Healthy” to start would be “make at home.” Even mac n’ cheese at home (we use organic brands) is better than picking up McDonalds. Continually want to make a food calendar but not inspired to do it. Need suggestions on quick, healthy meals. Please post in comments with ideas.
11. Snack wisely (go for fruits and veggies instead of sugar or processed snacks).
Definitely have been focusing on grabbing fruit, granola bars. Making fruit salad more often. Have been focused on low fat/healthier snacks when needed.
12. Record daily food and activity on the iPhone app I paid for :)
I have not been doing this. I think I have felt OK about food and honestly have been eating much less since I was sick. Bad thing is that I’m not eating if I don’t find anything good. Need to have some sort of healthy snack list to go by even if I do have to skip a meal.
Other things to think about:
1. Buy Sketcher Shape-ups
Bought new running shoes instead.
2. Buy pedometer
Did this with suggestion on model from Mary C.. I love it!
3. Consider personal training sessions (discount happening at Y)
I did consider this and decided to use the 3 free I have first, work on my own and then check back in with myself on goal date.
Other things I have added:
• Tracking on calendar; up in kitchen
• Added “I Just Ran/Walked” app to toolbox
• Stars for ab workouts
• Took on volunteering at yoga studio again so have once a week yoga scheduled (easy 500 cals burned)
For once in my life, I feel I am doing extremely well with my plan! I haven’t struggled much at all with my eating and working out, and due to the FitLinxx program at the Y where I can track my workouts, I am finding it fun and energizing!
I’m not sure if I mentioned this in my other note/blog, but the Y has a “Top 25” list in different areas where it’s tracked by FitLinxx. The areas are: CV time, weight lifted, FitPoints and days worked out. I first started tracking in April and although I made the list, I found that I was only burning about 200-300 calories each day by walking (e.g., no lost weight). I’m SO happy that I had the FitLinxx program, as an email mapped it all out and I saw it in black and white. If I didn’t have that info, I would have thought my body was just too old or didn’t have the capacity to lose weight! Can you imagine where I’d be now?? When I saw that, it was obvious, I had to work up my CV to get the weight off. Walking was helpful, but it was only keeping me stable.
What did I decide to do? A running program: Couch to 5K. May not sound too crazy, but for me, it surely was. LONG DISTANCE RUNNING? I’ve always told myself I wasn’t a long distance runner.. I figured out this weekend that I did this due to a coach in Middle School telling me that I was more of a sprinter.. there you go. I never even tried any long distance running as I became good at short distance running and relay. Fast-forward 25+ years later, here I am with a bunch of new moms and babies on a 6 mile walk that ended up 8!! I thought I’d be in rough shape the next day, but all I was, was energized! That one walk totally transformed my way of thinking about my body and what it could do (thanks Shari!). Add in getting new running shoes and a new stroller that is designed for more long distance walks and you have a plan for success!
After reviewing a bunch of the 5K programs out there, it was recommended to me by Sue R. to look at the Couch to 5K program. I decided to download the app for my iPhone and found it a lot of fun! I’m on week 3 (out of 5) right now and I’m not having any issues running. I have done 99% of my training on the treadmill, but even my one run outside didn’t cause me any problems. I’m on my way!
I decided to add the 2010 Turkey Trot on my radar as it’s a 5K and I can definitely get trained for November. It would be nice to find something a bit earlier as it can be really COLD in November in Boston, but I’ll do it if nothing else comes up.
FYI, in April, I made 3 out of 4 categories on the Y’s Big Board.. and all in the top 5! I was floored and very proud. In May, I did the same, but all in the top 20 due to my week of illness and doing nothing for 5-6 days. Either way, I’m extremely proud and am learning very quickly what motivates me (not that I didn’t know), but these include:
• Technology
• Tracking/Stats
• Simple entering of data
• Ease of tracking
• Music (for runs)
• A bit of competition (i.e., Y’s Big Board)
• Clear goals
• Accountability (this blog)
Below are the updates on my plan and possible changes.
March 25, 2010 GOAL:
Lose 12 pounds by July 1. Feel good to be in a bikini again :)
AS OF 6.6.10:
Lost 7
1. Workout at least 5X per week (min 45 minutes)--work to 6x per week or more. Find times I can actually schedule in calendar.
(Workouts include: Wii Fit, Wii FitPlus, Golds Gym Wii game, Let's Dance game, gym cardio workout-machines, gym workout-aerobics, walk with Jackie/others, power yoga)
I have not scheduled everything into my calendar, but have found the initiative to go to the Y, yoga, walk, run outside on my own. This in itself a major win.
-In April, I went out on a walk almost daily. Realized I was not burning the calories I needed to via FitLinxx tracking. Decided to start a running program in May.
-In May I averaged 4X a week, but was out of commission 5-6 days due to illness.
2. 50 situps a day minimum.
This has not happened. I have implemented a “star program” where I put a star on the calendar each day I do this. It does encourage me, but I may need to get more in the mode of “situps when I think about it” and see how that goes. April I did extremely well with this. Once I got sick in May, it fell off my radar unless I was at the Y or yoga.
3. When out walking, etc. do not buy food (drinks are OK if tea or low fat).
I have been up and down with this. April was great. May not so much, but I did research the calorie, fat, etc. chart with Starbucks and I know the cals for my favorite foods and if I do get something, stick with the low cal/low sugar options.
4. Reduce sugar in diet slowly.
This I feel I have done. I don’t have much of a craving for sugar, but still need to keep an eye on this and keep track a bit more.
5. Take out sugary breakfasts 2X per week, each week. Allowed one sugary breakfast a week in the end.
Took this out completely and had no issues.
6. Meet with fitness director at YMCA to go over fit program at gym within next 2 weeks (3 free).
I did this in April and found a great trainer there that I connected with. Went twice and still have the last free one to use. I got set up on the FitLinxx system and use the machines I would normally use for workouts and circuit. Still have to set up other machines I’m not used to using. Will be setting up my last session with Todd to see if I can get any other pointers. Have considered taking on the training sessions if I stabilize at some point, possibly in the Fall.
7. When walking, increase rate of walking. Add additional loop when possible (around neighborhood or walk farther into town).
I don’t think I have upped the rate of my walking, but have found alternate routes where I do at least 2 miles on any given walk. Many of the 3-4 mile walks include hills.
8. Look to set up a mom/baby walk once a week to walk with a group.
This has not happened. It has been quite difficult hooking up with other moms due to various things. I did have a playdate setup with a friend weekly, but due to other circumstances we did not walk each week. Will ask her again to see if she wants to take on a weekly walk or at least twice a month. Will seek out others as weather is continuing to get better.
9. Make sure I have greens at lunch and dinner.
Have not had greens/salads for lunch and dinner. Tends to happen once a day.
10. Focus on healthy meals, even if they need to be quick.
This has been tougher as we tend to eat dinner late. “Healthy” to start would be “make at home.” Even mac n’ cheese at home (we use organic brands) is better than picking up McDonalds. Continually want to make a food calendar but not inspired to do it. Need suggestions on quick, healthy meals. Please post in comments with ideas.
11. Snack wisely (go for fruits and veggies instead of sugar or processed snacks).
Definitely have been focusing on grabbing fruit, granola bars. Making fruit salad more often. Have been focused on low fat/healthier snacks when needed.
12. Record daily food and activity on the iPhone app I paid for :)
I have not been doing this. I think I have felt OK about food and honestly have been eating much less since I was sick. Bad thing is that I’m not eating if I don’t find anything good. Need to have some sort of healthy snack list to go by even if I do have to skip a meal.
Other things to think about:
1. Buy Sketcher Shape-ups
Bought new running shoes instead.
2. Buy pedometer
Did this with suggestion on model from Mary C.. I love it!
3. Consider personal training sessions (discount happening at Y)
I did consider this and decided to use the 3 free I have first, work on my own and then check back in with myself on goal date.
Other things I have added:
• Tracking on calendar; up in kitchen
• Added “I Just Ran/Walked” app to toolbox
• Stars for ab workouts
• Took on volunteering at yoga studio again so have once a week yoga scheduled (easy 500 cals burned)
Catching up
March. Wow. It's been a while. I've got the bug to at least write something on a bunch of social media outlets, so here you go. My husband is out and it seems that when either I'm out or he's out, the other party gets a lot more done. I find that odd as we are usually doing our own projects from time to time, but there must be something mentally different about being in the house alone (well, and with a baby :).
I've been meaning to write anyway as I just turned 40 on May 11. Most of the time I don't even notice or "feel" any different, but there are times I am reminded, like at the gym or at a live show or if I'm with a younger friend of a friend, etc. I do have to say though, I'm cool with it. I feel good, I'm relatively healthy, and I kinda did my mourning over getting older when I turned 36 and 37. It really was more about where I was in life, and I guess I have come to some sort of acceptance of where I am. Not settling, but acceptance and choice.
I enjoy being a mom. I know it's not my end all be all, but I enjoy it. We have a cool and wonderful daughter and I couldn't ask for more from her. I know she will be successful, awesome, cool and happy. It's my job initially to get her there, but I already see her chill and happy attitude in life.. it's nice and refreshing.
I'm also starting to finally go out and do the things I used to do. As I always do, I castrophized and created that my life would "never be the same" *drama*. Well, I guess it's not, but is it ever really? We just have to plan more and put more energy into going out and doing things. Come to find out, if we really want to do something, it happens. If not, it's doesn't. Saves us some money that way :)
It's been great the past few weeks going to live shows and comedy. The live shows, specifically local ones, really dropped off, but I went a couple weeks ago and it was amazing to be back where I feel I belong. It was fun, even though I was by myself. Pretty amazing.
Last night we saw Bobby Kelly as we always do when he comes thru. He always gives us the VIP treatment and I feel so special :) I will end here with a quick photo. Lots more to say about everything, but I'll be back :)
Me and Bobby Kelly, 6.5.10, Boston
I've been meaning to write anyway as I just turned 40 on May 11. Most of the time I don't even notice or "feel" any different, but there are times I am reminded, like at the gym or at a live show or if I'm with a younger friend of a friend, etc. I do have to say though, I'm cool with it. I feel good, I'm relatively healthy, and I kinda did my mourning over getting older when I turned 36 and 37. It really was more about where I was in life, and I guess I have come to some sort of acceptance of where I am. Not settling, but acceptance and choice.
I enjoy being a mom. I know it's not my end all be all, but I enjoy it. We have a cool and wonderful daughter and I couldn't ask for more from her. I know she will be successful, awesome, cool and happy. It's my job initially to get her there, but I already see her chill and happy attitude in life.. it's nice and refreshing.
I'm also starting to finally go out and do the things I used to do. As I always do, I castrophized and created that my life would "never be the same" *drama*. Well, I guess it's not, but is it ever really? We just have to plan more and put more energy into going out and doing things. Come to find out, if we really want to do something, it happens. If not, it's doesn't. Saves us some money that way :)
It's been great the past few weeks going to live shows and comedy. The live shows, specifically local ones, really dropped off, but I went a couple weeks ago and it was amazing to be back where I feel I belong. It was fun, even though I was by myself. Pretty amazing.
Last night we saw Bobby Kelly as we always do when he comes thru. He always gives us the VIP treatment and I feel so special :) I will end here with a quick photo. Lots more to say about everything, but I'll be back :)
Me and Bobby Kelly, 6.5.10, Boston
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
My Happy and Healthy Contract
I decided to write this "note", blog, etc. to put something in writing about my current dilemma of "trying" to lose my baby weight (and more). I've had great ideas, we've joined the Y that is basically walking distance from my house, but nothing really has worked. I took on doing my yoga classes once a week and that has sustained itself, but nothing more. I also had the plan to lose the 10 pounds I wanted to by May 11, my 40th b-day, but I still stand 12 pounds over.
I lost about 5-6 pounds (after the initial 20 lost from the pregnancy), but leveled off at 170. It's aggravating and I even swore off getting new clothes, as I thought I'd be back in my old clothes in no time, but I learned quickly that "getting the old body back" will not be the same body. Not in a bad way, but my body is holding "fat" and weight in places it hadn't before.
Nevertheless, I bought a few interchangeable pieces of clothes as the warmer weather is coming upon us, but held off on getting an entire new wardrobe. I am not giving up on my quest as I have seen results in other ways.. I have lost inches and some weight, but again, not where I want to be.
I realized I needed to be held accountable, even if it was just writing this note on a social outlet, and decided to put out there what I'm planning on doing and my options.
If you've gotten this far, thank you. I do ask, if you have read this and support me in my quest, please write a comment at the bottom of this blog. It helps me to know that people are behind me. To hold myself accountable, I'll be writing a status at some point during the day on Facebook when I complete some sort of activity. This usually creates encouragement for me. Here's the plan and what I need to do:
GOAL: Lose 12 pounds by July 1. Feel good to be in a bikini again :)
1. Workout at least 5X per week (min 45 minutes)--work to 6x per week or more. Find times I can actually schedule in calendar.
(Workouts include: Wii Fit, Wii FitPlus, Golds Gym Wii game, Let's Dance game, gym cardio workout-machines, gym workout-aerobics, walk with Jackie/others, power yoga)
2. 50 situps a day minimum.
3. When out walking, etc. do not buy food (drinks are OK if tea or low fat).
4. Reduce sugar in diet slowly.
5. Take out sugary breakfasts 2X per week, each week. Allowed one sugary breakfast a week in the end.
6. Meet with fitness director at YMCA to go over fit program at gym within next 2 weeks (3 free).
7. When walking, increase rate of walking. Add additional loop when possible (around neighborhood or walk farther into town).
8. Look to set up a mom/baby walk once a week to walk with a group.
9. Make sure I have greens at lunch and dinner.
10. Focus on healthy meals, even if they need to be quick.
11. Snack wisely (go for fruits and veggies instead of sugar or processed snacks).
12. Record daily food and activity on the iPhone app I paid for :)
Other things to think about:
1. Buy Sketcher Shape-ups
2. Buy pedometer
3. Consider personal training sessions (discount happening at Y)
I lost about 5-6 pounds (after the initial 20 lost from the pregnancy), but leveled off at 170. It's aggravating and I even swore off getting new clothes, as I thought I'd be back in my old clothes in no time, but I learned quickly that "getting the old body back" will not be the same body. Not in a bad way, but my body is holding "fat" and weight in places it hadn't before.
Nevertheless, I bought a few interchangeable pieces of clothes as the warmer weather is coming upon us, but held off on getting an entire new wardrobe. I am not giving up on my quest as I have seen results in other ways.. I have lost inches and some weight, but again, not where I want to be.
I realized I needed to be held accountable, even if it was just writing this note on a social outlet, and decided to put out there what I'm planning on doing and my options.
If you've gotten this far, thank you. I do ask, if you have read this and support me in my quest, please write a comment at the bottom of this blog. It helps me to know that people are behind me. To hold myself accountable, I'll be writing a status at some point during the day on Facebook when I complete some sort of activity. This usually creates encouragement for me. Here's the plan and what I need to do:
GOAL: Lose 12 pounds by July 1. Feel good to be in a bikini again :)
1. Workout at least 5X per week (min 45 minutes)--work to 6x per week or more. Find times I can actually schedule in calendar.
(Workouts include: Wii Fit, Wii FitPlus, Golds Gym Wii game, Let's Dance game, gym cardio workout-machines, gym workout-aerobics, walk with Jackie/others, power yoga)
2. 50 situps a day minimum.
3. When out walking, etc. do not buy food (drinks are OK if tea or low fat).
4. Reduce sugar in diet slowly.
5. Take out sugary breakfasts 2X per week, each week. Allowed one sugary breakfast a week in the end.
6. Meet with fitness director at YMCA to go over fit program at gym within next 2 weeks (3 free).
7. When walking, increase rate of walking. Add additional loop when possible (around neighborhood or walk farther into town).
8. Look to set up a mom/baby walk once a week to walk with a group.
9. Make sure I have greens at lunch and dinner.
10. Focus on healthy meals, even if they need to be quick.
11. Snack wisely (go for fruits and veggies instead of sugar or processed snacks).
12. Record daily food and activity on the iPhone app I paid for :)
Other things to think about:
1. Buy Sketcher Shape-ups
2. Buy pedometer
3. Consider personal training sessions (discount happening at Y)
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