I went to Saturday morning's 9am Core Yoga class...man, is that hard! Good! But not easy, oh no.
Today I did a quick jog on Katy Trail because I forgot to dry my YogiToes towel (stays in place on your yoga mat- a necessity in my yoga book).
I went 2.28 miles in 25 min 33 sec at a 11:09 min/mile pace and burned 235 calories.
And I'm wheezing.
That's a good workout!
I ran to the pace of Pump It by the Black Eyed Peas, otherwise, it would have taken me longer. That song is a doozey! :)
My playlist today (and most Katy Trail days) was:
Walk Away by Kelly Clarkson
Can't Get Enough of You Baby by Smashmouth
Paper Planes by M.I.A.
Pump It by BEP
Since U Been Gone by Kelly Clarkson (this is my "I'm awesome!" song when jogging)
(part of) Womanizer by Britney Spears (you love her music too, admit it)
Lucky by Jason Mraz & Colbie Caillat, once I got back to Cole Ave
Yoga tomorrow at 6am!
Monday, September 27, 2010
Friday, September 24, 2010
Origins - Freebies with purchase!
Origins is giving away a trio of mini-facial freebies ($22.50 value or more if you opt for Dr.Weil's products) with a purchase of any skincare item. Perfect for your travel skincare stash. Plus they always add one little bitty freebie when you buy online! By little bitty, it's about a week's worth.
I bought Night-a-mins lotion (love this stuff) and went for the Brighteners set (see below) and the bitty freebie Blade Runner (shave lotion) just to try it. I also have a whole bag of recyclable containers to bring to the store. Yet another free sample!
Offer ends 10/2
And did I mention free shipping right now?! That means you get the same price as the store, plus all of the free goods!
image from Origins.com
I bought Night-a-mins lotion (love this stuff) and went for the Brighteners set (see below) and the bitty freebie Blade Runner (shave lotion) just to try it. I also have a whole bag of recyclable containers to bring to the store. Yet another free sample!
Offer ends 10/2
And did I mention free shipping right now?! That means you get the same price as the store, plus all of the free goods!
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Hello, Day!
I made it to the 6am yoga class!
You're welcome, body, for waking you up early. 2 for 2. Next one's on Thursday morning.
I also got to put a little frog sticker on the RC21 poster...it's the small things. Who doesn't like stickers?
You're welcome, body, for waking you up early. 2 for 2. Next one's on Thursday morning.
I also got to put a little frog sticker on the RC21 poster...it's the small things. Who doesn't like stickers?
Monday, September 20, 2010
Re-Commit 21
So Yogasport has begun a Re-Commit 21 Challenge. We are making a committment to ourselves to do yoga for 21 days in the next month.
I think it's really a committment to myself to show up. Not to yoga, but to LIFE. I am realllllly good at being too busy to go to yoga, which turns into being too busy to do something good for myself. One example is that I've been meaning to stop by the salon for a pedicure. I have a gift certificate and want a little "me time" so that I can unwind and relax a bit. Have I been yet? Nope. I've had plenty of time to stay late at school and work on "stuff" though. And who could pass up a free pedicure? It's little things like that...not showing up for a pedicure, not showing up to yoga, not going to weekday mass, being late for something, or forgetting something else...that cause me to participate in this self-neglect. No one is making me stay late at school but myself. No one is keeping me from yoga or the me time but myself.
So when Angela sent an email to YS members about the 21 day challenge, I was like, yes, I need to be challenged to re-commit to myself. We are all busy. We all have excuses. But what do we really need?
I need some of that goodness that comes with yoga. The physical benefits of a cardio workout, the mental benefits of restoring my body after life kicks my rear.
In fact, today is day 1!
And where was I at 6:30? Arriving at home. I can't make a 6:30 class if I get home at 6:30. They lock the door after practice begins, and I know I can get there 5 or so minutes late and still make it. But I can't get there 10 or 15 minutes late. And it's best to get there about 10 minutes early to get into the mindset of yoga and to acclimate to the temperature (not too hot, about 90 degrees). I almost declared myself a failure, when I decided that it would be the opposite of committment to do THAT. Let's not get carried away, Rina. So I did yoga in my living room. It wasn't a full committment, but I have tomorrow to get better! 6 AM, here I come! (hey, I did it last Thursday, so I am GOING tomorrow morning - I sort of told myself that I would go in the morning the next 6 times it was available. I have in my head that it takes 6 times to learn a habit?? Where is that from? And then 21 days to form the new habit. Something like that? Or maybe it's "tell kids something 6 times before they hear you...." ANYway. 6 am. It's on.)
Your re-committment can be to yourself, your family, your spiritual life, your kids, your job (hopefully it's something besides your job though), your healthy diet, your brain-- whatever it is, your heart will thank you for it! 21 days to form a good habit!
I think it's really a committment to myself to show up. Not to yoga, but to LIFE. I am realllllly good at being too busy to go to yoga, which turns into being too busy to do something good for myself. One example is that I've been meaning to stop by the salon for a pedicure. I have a gift certificate and want a little "me time" so that I can unwind and relax a bit. Have I been yet? Nope. I've had plenty of time to stay late at school and work on "stuff" though. And who could pass up a free pedicure? It's little things like that...not showing up for a pedicure, not showing up to yoga, not going to weekday mass, being late for something, or forgetting something else...that cause me to participate in this self-neglect. No one is making me stay late at school but myself. No one is keeping me from yoga or the me time but myself.
So when Angela sent an email to YS members about the 21 day challenge, I was like, yes, I need to be challenged to re-commit to myself. We are all busy. We all have excuses. But what do we really need?
I need some of that goodness that comes with yoga. The physical benefits of a cardio workout, the mental benefits of restoring my body after life kicks my rear.
In fact, today is day 1!
And where was I at 6:30? Arriving at home. I can't make a 6:30 class if I get home at 6:30. They lock the door after practice begins, and I know I can get there 5 or so minutes late and still make it. But I can't get there 10 or 15 minutes late. And it's best to get there about 10 minutes early to get into the mindset of yoga and to acclimate to the temperature (not too hot, about 90 degrees). I almost declared myself a failure, when I decided that it would be the opposite of committment to do THAT. Let's not get carried away, Rina. So I did yoga in my living room. It wasn't a full committment, but I have tomorrow to get better! 6 AM, here I come! (hey, I did it last Thursday, so I am GOING tomorrow morning - I sort of told myself that I would go in the morning the next 6 times it was available. I have in my head that it takes 6 times to learn a habit?? Where is that from? And then 21 days to form the new habit. Something like that? Or maybe it's "tell kids something 6 times before they hear you...." ANYway. 6 am. It's on.)
Your re-committment can be to yourself, your family, your spiritual life, your kids, your job (hopefully it's something besides your job though), your healthy diet, your brain-- whatever it is, your heart will thank you for it! 21 days to form a good habit!
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Sun Love and Eye Cream by Origins
Had a good dermatology appointment this morning. Just freckles and regular moles. Yea! (+ sigh of relief)
I grew up not using sunscreen much. It was more like you used a little if you were pale-skinned. My friends would put some on their shoulders, face, and tops of their legs if they were pale and we were at a pool or Wet-N-Wild. Six Flags didn't call for sunscreen. Maybe because sunscreen was for swimsuit activities? I'd just jump on my bike and ride it all day long every summer, in between jumping into our above-ground pool or our neighbors' in-ground pool (we called it the "real pool," although they came over equally to play in our 4-footer, so it was cool enough).
Then in high school we'd go out for marching band. A week in July for the July 4th parade in downtown Arlington, and three weeks in August to get ready for marching season. Did we ever wear sunscreen? We certainly did not all reapply when we bought our gatorades from the Band Moms. And we'd all have a smokin' hot farmer tan...longer shorts were in style and keds without laces...those were the days. It was like my Filipino genes gave me an exemption from sunscreen. And marching band gave us an excuse to have a farmer tan? Yes, but along with that was a work out that made us all look amazing in those band banquet dresses! (This should give you insight as to why GLEE is my favorite TV show right now. Best. Show. Ever.)
In college, I'd put on SPF 4, 6, or 8, and rarely 15 to achieve my summer tan. SPF 4 Tanning Oil. Ew, it's so gross to think about it. The grease. And if you wanted hilights, add lemon to your hair. I didn't know what "brassy" meant inrelation to hair. I just thought it was a musical term relating to the trumpet section.
Isn't it so different now? Todd and I went to a friend's pool the other weekend, and we all were slathering on the SPF 30, 55, and 70. We found a table in the shade, we all had sunglasses on, and we wore our flops to the edge of the pool before getting in. Ha! It's comical, actually. This was an Uptown apartment pool, and the young and hot were out in droves. It seemed we were the only ones putting on sunscreen, but maybe they all applied 30 minutes prior to sun exposure as the directions dictate. Yeah, right. Maybe it's not so different after all.
In Las Vegas, I wore sunglasses and a hat! BOTH! Pretty much all day! I definitely wore the sunglasses all day. The hat came off so I could go under the waterfall in the lazy river and play in the wave pool. Yet, I still have a hard time venturing beyond SPF 30. I still crave the tan potential. I read in SHAPE magazine that some of us have a small addiction to tanning or to the sun. Yikes. That's kind of why I donned the hat/glasses combo. Really, this is the first summer, ever, for me to wear sunglasses any time I'm in the sun, even in the car. Why? Because of the inevitable eye wrinkle occurrence.
When I was about 12 or 13, my mom took me to the Clinique counter and the lady taught me about facial care. We bought the 3-step pack - cleansing bar, toner, and moisturizer - and this was my daily routine through college. We loved the Clinique gift with purchase. Oh, those were special shopping days! We would go to Dillard's and pick out an item for $13.50 (this has since increased, obviously), and we would go home with a cute Clinique makeup package that included a case of some sort, lipstick, moisturizer, an eye color or blush color, and possibly eye cream. You would think that my mom and I would trade - my eye cream for one of her makeup items. But we didn't. I'd use the eye cream from my gift and so would she. I have been "sampling" eye cream since I remember wearing makeup. Now, when I ran out of the gift size, I wouldn't buy more. I'd only use it when there was some available. Looking back, I'm so glad I did this! Now that I'm looking 35 in the face, I feel the eye wrinkle fight has begun!
NOW I always have eye cream. I have since made the switch to Origins (which I think is related to Clinique in some way. It is also related to MAC Makeup - whatever...they are all related. Toyota --> Lexus, right? Old Navy --> Gap --> Banana Republic. Etc.) Here are eye creams that I have enjoyed using from Origins. (all images from origins.com)
Eye Doctor
Eye Doctor was one of the first for me to try. It's moisturizer for your eye area. If you think of your skin as paper, your knees and elbows = cardboard, your face = notebook paper, your eye area = tissue paper. Thus the different cream is needed for your eyes. I may gravitate toward this one again. The website says it de-puffs, fights crows feet and fades dark shadows!
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| $30.00 |
No Puffery is still one of my favorites, especially for the mornings. The light gel goes on to de-pouf your eye area. I just think it's a fresh wake up for my under-eye area! It feels cool and easy and is inexpensive at $21.00. The website says it lightens dark areas too!
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| $21.00 |
A Perfect World for Eyes
Here is what is on my shelf now, and I like it a lot for nighttime. I think I really like a cooler eye cream in the morning, and this one glides on for ultra-moisturization. It's very light as well, and leaves your eyes feeling relaxed. The website says it lessens wrinkles and firms. Oh-la-la!
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| $32.00 |
Youthtopia
This one is good too. It fights against stress and aging with an herb called Rhodiola. It's been a while since trying this product, so you'll have to try it yourself! It's more expensive, so if you can score a free sample, that's the way to go! The website says you will achieve visibly firmer skin around your eyes.
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| $39.50 |
GinZing
GinZing is my new, personal favorite! It feels good - great for the mornings, and it has these light reflectors that make your under eye area brighter. It's magical, and I can't get enough of it. I wandered upon a free sample when I brought my cosmetic containers to Origins for recycling. It's a winner!
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| $29.50 |
If you don't recycle your cosmetic plastics yet, please collect them and take them to your Origins store! They will take ANY BRAND, and they will reward your good deed with a free sample of your choice. (hint, hint: eye cream!)
Finally, if your Origins store has closed (ex: Parks Mall in Arlington - how sad were my mom, sister, and I!), you can buy online. They ALWAYS give you 2 or 3 free samples with your online purchase. Just consider where you'll have it shipped...it's pretty hot out here in Texas...maybe it would be ok to ship to your office? I like to buy online because of the freebies and because I LOVE opening shipped boxes!
ps- I am not getting anything from Origins for this blog post. I just love their products, and that's where my experience lies. I have no doubt that there are others in all price points that would serve you just as well! Good luck!
Wednesday, August 11, 2010
Dermatology
Well, I have a dermatologist appointment in the morning. This will be my first real, check-for-odd-shaped-spots appointment since they have said we should all get regular skin check-ups. So while I'm a little nervous, last summer the Sailing Camp owner, Mr. Hoye, who is much older than I am, said, "You'll be fine. Look at my skin. I've had things taken off, and I'm fine." Ok, last summer, I thought he had a point. This summer, the night before my appointment, I'll admit to being a little nervous. Todd says he'll ask his primary care physician for a check next time he's in for a physical.
Monday, August 9, 2010
Vegas, Baby!
We had a GREAT time in Las Vegas with our friends Laura and Robert Payne!
Here are some photos:
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| The Payne-Almarez travel buddies |
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| The view from our pool cabana on Monday |
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| Happy 2nd Anniversary to the Almarez's! |
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| The view from MIX at the top of THEhotel was so cool |
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| Todd and I saw the Beatles LOVE show...if you are a Beatles fan, this is a must-see! |
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| THEhotel was very nice. |
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| Oh, how I love the sun! I'm reading Tipping Point by Malcolm Gladwell, btw. Bought the hat at Urban Outfitters that day. |
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| Waiting in line for Beatles LOVE - my shoes were crazy tall that night! |
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| Here they are (Jessica Simpson Stone) bought at L Bartlett in West Village [photo from shoes.com]. I had a long silk maxi dress on, so they were just right, but man, I had to commit to wearing these babies! |
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| Laura and Robert at our birthday dinner at Red Square in Mandalay Bay. The food was delicious! |
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| Check out this restaurant in this wooden nest-like structure in the middle of the CityCenter shopping area |
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| We loved our Tuesday cabana spot...right by the lazy river, restrooms, and the first stop for our cabana boy server. :) |
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| One last photo before heading to the airport. What a fun vacation! |
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
Taste of West Village and My Mango Method
Todd and I had dinner at Taste of West Village. The restaurants had servings of food for $1 and the proceeds go to North Texas Food Bank. We had a taco from Taco Diner, a lamb chop from Cru, some nachos from Mi Cocina, and then from Lemmon Bar, we had (together) a grilled cheese (3 cheeses! yum!) with tomato soup, chicken fettucine alfredo, and some mud pie (whipped cream and choclolate shavings on chocolate mousse on chocolate cake-- um, hello). The two of us had a dinner's worth of food for under $15...it was great! And for a good cause. And we listened to some live music and people watched and ran into some church friends. Overall, a super way to enjoy dinner! Sometimes, food that brings you good health isn't all that healthy. Good thing I ate healthy all day long (see below).
Today's work out:
Tonight I went to Janie's yoga class. Oh my I was feelin' it in my legs from yesterday's S.E.T. class with all the stepping and such. I had two risers under my step (on each side), so there was a good distance for my average-length legs to pull myself up onto the step. Yoga is the perfect next day workout. You sweat everywhere, get a killer cardio work out, lengthen your muscles, and tone your arms pronto, and you can be good to your bones. Plus I leave feeling amazing.
New Food from my grocery store trip!
Have you tried Yogi granola crisps? Ok, they sound super healthy, but they are really yummy! (and, yes, they are super healthy - 20 grams of whole grains per serving (1/2 cup) which includes 2 g of fiber, 3 g of protein and only 5 g of sugar). If you are a calorie counter, it has 110 per serving (20 from fat) and 2.5 g of fat (0 unsaturated and 0 trans fat). YUM. I am all about the Mountain Blueberry Flax crisps. It's so crunchy and just sweet enough. It's as if someone cut off the top of a blueberry muffin and made it crispy. I had this with berries this morning for breakfast and again before yoga. Yogi also makes cereal. I bought the walnut spice something or another and had a yummy lunch with blueberries and a mango.
Rina's Method to Eating a Fresh Mango
I grew up eating fresh mangoes, and my favorite way to eat them is like this:
1. Rinse the mango and dry
2. Cut along each side of the mango seed (it's big)
3. On each "half," carefully cut a checkerboard into the peel, without cutting through the peel
4. Fold back and enjoy!
You can spoon out the fruit, cut it out, or just jump in with your teeth. You do it with a watermelon, right? Get to eating then!
ps- you can also, take the peel off of the seed and cut the flesh off or bite into it. It's the best way to have a mango! I love fresh mango above jarred, canned, or mango-flavored anything else.
Today's work out:
Tonight I went to Janie's yoga class. Oh my I was feelin' it in my legs from yesterday's S.E.T. class with all the stepping and such. I had two risers under my step (on each side), so there was a good distance for my average-length legs to pull myself up onto the step. Yoga is the perfect next day workout. You sweat everywhere, get a killer cardio work out, lengthen your muscles, and tone your arms pronto, and you can be good to your bones. Plus I leave feeling amazing.
New Food from my grocery store trip!
Have you tried Yogi granola crisps? Ok, they sound super healthy, but they are really yummy! (and, yes, they are super healthy - 20 grams of whole grains per serving (1/2 cup) which includes 2 g of fiber, 3 g of protein and only 5 g of sugar). If you are a calorie counter, it has 110 per serving (20 from fat) and 2.5 g of fat (0 unsaturated and 0 trans fat). YUM. I am all about the Mountain Blueberry Flax crisps. It's so crunchy and just sweet enough. It's as if someone cut off the top of a blueberry muffin and made it crispy. I had this with berries this morning for breakfast and again before yoga. Yogi also makes cereal. I bought the walnut spice something or another and had a yummy lunch with blueberries and a mango.
Rina's Method to Eating a Fresh Mango
I grew up eating fresh mangoes, and my favorite way to eat them is like this:
1. Rinse the mango and dry
2. Cut along each side of the mango seed (it's big)
3. On each "half," carefully cut a checkerboard into the peel, without cutting through the peel
4. Fold back and enjoy!
You can spoon out the fruit, cut it out, or just jump in with your teeth. You do it with a watermelon, right? Get to eating then!
ps- you can also, take the peel off of the seed and cut the flesh off or bite into it. It's the best way to have a mango! I love fresh mango above jarred, canned, or mango-flavored anything else.
Monday, July 26, 2010
Fridge Space
I recently reorganized our fridge front space - you know, the magnetic space upon which you adorn the refrigerator with announcements, cut-outs from magazines, invitations, and the occasional note to self. [Our note to self right now is the phone number to a karaoke cab. Oh yes. You can call this cab driver to pick up your party of friends and have full-blown karaoke entertainment while you travel to your destination. How awesome is that? It's on a sticky note on our fridge, just in case we feel a cab ride is necessary and we are itchin' to sing a little Bon Jovi or Jesse's Girl. Two birds with one stone, right?]
So the fridge space is now organized. In general, the top half of the fridge is for announcements, while the bottom half is for invitations. At this moment we have 9 baby announcements, 2 save the dates for weddings, a Valentine's Day postcard, an baby shower invitation, a wedding shower invitation, and a one year old birthday party invitation. And we have a page from my recent Shape magazine about "healthy cheeses." We got 2 baby announcements today, so I had to bump one that is a year old already, as well as a wedding invitation that has passed. There IS a save the date up past their wedding day (different couple) because their photo is so cute. I decided that if there's a photo of our friends on it, it gets more fridge time. Their wedding invite has already been moved to make room for something else. Does anyone else do this, or is it just me? We love the photos of family events! I especially love how it's one piece of real mail that does not seem to have given in to the digital announcement options that we have. Thank you for not announcing on Facebook or through email or an e-card. I mean, not that I don't like the pics and posts on FB, but I love opening mail to see a new little baby and his or her measurements, or a photo of friends who are engaged, or a family photo on a Valentine's card. Plus it's kind of an honor to have made that mail-out list! The least we can do is magnetize it to the fridge for a year.
Today's work out:
Ok, I went to a S.E.T. class at 24 Hour Fitness today. I'm trying to mix in a little strength training with the yoga. I think S.E.T. stands for Strength Endurance Training. For this class, you need a step, a barbell with weights (enough for squats, lunges, and then adjustable for triceps, biceps, & back), light hand weights, heavy hand weights, and a mat for crunches or push-ups. It's a total body sculpting class with cardio. It was 60 minutes and oh, so challenging! I'm glad I went. I can already feel it in my glutes and triceps. Yow.
I also went to Central Market to grocery shop. Todd and I are not the best...ok, we are terrible... grocery shoppers. I don't know what it is...we just don't enjoy it. I usually go, especially in the summers because I don't have that work thing getting even more in the way of something like buying food for us to eat. Jeez, you'd think our priorities would get us to the store. Since shopping at Central Market is somewhat fun, although it is more expensive than some places, it is still LESS expensive for us than eating out. I know. It's a little embarrassing. Bonus today was getting our Fourth Course coupons for Restaurant Week! Yea! I also added a dinner menu to our Google Calendar to help me with groceries and to (maybe) coax us into staying in for dinner rather than eating out. After today's jaunt we now have food for the week, at about the same price as a late night at Abacus for their half-price sushi in the bar. (SO good - 1/2 price after 9 pm, Mon-Fri)
We had meatloaf, potatoes, green beans, guacamole, and bread with olive oil for dinner. We are stuffed! We also have leftover mini-bundt cakes from Marna's bday dinner Saturday night. (Nothing Bundt Cakes - $16.95 for a dozen perfect little treats). Stuffed, I say! We are blessed.
By the way, I bought the boots :)
So the fridge space is now organized. In general, the top half of the fridge is for announcements, while the bottom half is for invitations. At this moment we have 9 baby announcements, 2 save the dates for weddings, a Valentine's Day postcard, an baby shower invitation, a wedding shower invitation, and a one year old birthday party invitation. And we have a page from my recent Shape magazine about "healthy cheeses." We got 2 baby announcements today, so I had to bump one that is a year old already, as well as a wedding invitation that has passed. There IS a save the date up past their wedding day (different couple) because their photo is so cute. I decided that if there's a photo of our friends on it, it gets more fridge time. Their wedding invite has already been moved to make room for something else. Does anyone else do this, or is it just me? We love the photos of family events! I especially love how it's one piece of real mail that does not seem to have given in to the digital announcement options that we have. Thank you for not announcing on Facebook or through email or an e-card. I mean, not that I don't like the pics and posts on FB, but I love opening mail to see a new little baby and his or her measurements, or a photo of friends who are engaged, or a family photo on a Valentine's card. Plus it's kind of an honor to have made that mail-out list! The least we can do is magnetize it to the fridge for a year.
Today's work out:
Ok, I went to a S.E.T. class at 24 Hour Fitness today. I'm trying to mix in a little strength training with the yoga. I think S.E.T. stands for Strength Endurance Training. For this class, you need a step, a barbell with weights (enough for squats, lunges, and then adjustable for triceps, biceps, & back), light hand weights, heavy hand weights, and a mat for crunches or push-ups. It's a total body sculpting class with cardio. It was 60 minutes and oh, so challenging! I'm glad I went. I can already feel it in my glutes and triceps. Yow.
I also went to Central Market to grocery shop. Todd and I are not the best...ok, we are terrible... grocery shoppers. I don't know what it is...we just don't enjoy it. I usually go, especially in the summers because I don't have that work thing getting even more in the way of something like buying food for us to eat. Jeez, you'd think our priorities would get us to the store. Since shopping at Central Market is somewhat fun, although it is more expensive than some places, it is still LESS expensive for us than eating out. I know. It's a little embarrassing. Bonus today was getting our Fourth Course coupons for Restaurant Week! Yea! I also added a dinner menu to our Google Calendar to help me with groceries and to (maybe) coax us into staying in for dinner rather than eating out. After today's jaunt we now have food for the week, at about the same price as a late night at Abacus for their half-price sushi in the bar. (SO good - 1/2 price after 9 pm, Mon-Fri)
We had meatloaf, potatoes, green beans, guacamole, and bread with olive oil for dinner. We are stuffed! We also have leftover mini-bundt cakes from Marna's bday dinner Saturday night. (Nothing Bundt Cakes - $16.95 for a dozen perfect little treats). Stuffed, I say! We are blessed.
By the way, I bought the boots :)
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Katy Trail & a little bit about shoes
I went for a great quick jog on Katy Trail this morning. It was nice! I'd forgotten how much I enjoy the Katy Trail. Thank you, Uptown, for the Katy Trail. It can be stinking hot out and the trail has a considerable amount of shade available for us. Love you, KT!
I jogged the entire time - broken down, that's a walk/easy stretching to the sidewalk, and then jogging to the trail, up to Knox, then a short stop for water, and then jogging until I can see the sidewalk where I started. From there I walk home and wind down, stretch my arms, etc. You know.
I have the Nike ipod shoe system, so my workout results today were:
Distance: 1.91 mi
Time: 21:31
Pace: 11:11 min/mi
Calories 198
My playlist:
Walk Away - Kelly Clarkson (light jog)
Somebody to Love - Glee Cast Version (keep warming up)
Can't Get Enough of You Baby - Smashmouth (increase intensity)
Paper Planes - M.I.A. (from Slumdog Millionaire) (continue the jog)
Pump It - Black Eyed Peas (increase speed)
Since You Been Gone - Kelly Clarkson (great one to push myself with - she's a great singer to run to)
I like to wind down to My Love - Justin Timberlake or even Candyman by Christina Aguilera
I was planning on doing yoga at noon, but after my shower, I felt that food was more important. I'll make an evening class instead. Yep! Double duty today, since I skipped yesterday. Normally I don't do that, but Vegas pool time is in my near future, so it's crunch time, people.
So, I'm trying to figure out how I'm going to buy a new pair of boots.
WHY do I love shoes so much?
I think there's something in the Filipino gene that, when compounded with the XX chromosome pair, causes our brains to believe that shoes are necessary to life. Not just a pair to protect your feet with, but multiple pairs, some of which actually hurt your feet and offer little in the way of cushion...the whole protection thing is then outweighed with the discomfort in order to wear some hot shoes. This is when I say "you just have to commit." Yes, when I come downstairs wearing a high set of heels, Todd says, "So, you're gonna commit tonight, huh?" And I answer, "Yep, sure am." There's a little non-verbal contract that runs through my head: "I understand the effort I am using to wear these heels. I have done what I can in the way of adding extra comfort with Foot Petals or Dr. Scholl's inserts. I know the approximate time frame for which I will be sitting down and have calculated the sit-down/stand up ratio for the evening. There is no going back. These shoes look awesome, and I look great in them. Time to commit."
Anyway, I have a reasonable balance of heel heights in my closet. Many shoes are perfect shoes for work. I have tile in my room, and tile is no friend to heels when I like to walk around my classroom during the day. In fact, training and workshop days are almost reserved for heels, when I know I'll get to sit down most of the day. As much as I'd love to wear heels to school, some days I know it's not worth the pain. Other days, I "commit" until I can't handle it (about 4th period), and I will change into my backup pair of flats.
So, I'd like to buy a pair of boots for the fall. The question is, where will they go? I have a limited amount of space for my shoes, and boots take up like, 3 or 4 times the space as regular shoes, especially flops or flats. I have said that I won't buy a pair of shoes unless I give away a pair. Wait! I just gave 2 pairs away this past weekend! That still doesn't make room for boots. Boots go in a certain spot in my closet and all boot spots are filled. I will have to rearrange.
Speaking of my closet...we are in a 2 BR condo with decent-sized closets. Todd and I do not share closet space, and his is definitely less packed in than mine. It's no secret that most guys have fewer shoes than girls, so I won't go there. However, when I was getting ready to move in a few years ago, I went through all of my stuff, picking out things to give to Catholic Charities and Goodwill and Salvation Army and the donation box at Albertson's. Todd was joking with me and asked how many pairs of shoes I had. Well, I'd never counted. Who needs to count when you always find yourself telling yourself "yes, I need these shoes" when your at Dillard's, or worse (really, BEST) Nordstrom! I counted. 76. No lie. I'll have to count again, since that is (I'm SURE) not accurate today.
So these boots are at Nordstrom, who is having their best ever sale right now. The Anniversary sale. These are items in for the Fall (this coming Fall) season that are on sale BEFORE the season starts. Once August 2 hits, the prices go back up. I love this sale! And! Nordstrom is the best place to buy shoes! Their customer service is unbeatable. Seriously, they will help you until you have a pair that you're happy with. Not like, Hi, I'm here to help you with shoes, but I mean, really. Helpful. For example, I bought a pair of black wedge espadrille-ish shoes a few years ago that I loved. They had a sling back style with a little button that popped off. I took them to a cobbler who was not helpful at all. They looked at it an flat out said they couldn't do anything for me. Really? For a BUTTON? So I took them to Nordstrom, where they happily gave me a new pair, no questions. Happy me walked out to wear them immediately, when a few weeks later, the button (same one) popped off again. So I took them to Nordstrom where they helped me find another pair very similar to them, that was about $15 more. I didn't want to pay the $15, but they were so cute and so button-free and a little more fancy, and the guy/girl helping was so friendly, that I happily paid $15 for my new cuter, button-free shoes. They are my go-to pair for summer.
OK, here are the shoes. The are over the knee boots, which would be an adventure in boot-wearing for me. I'm not going for the Pretty Woman thigh high boot look. More power to you if you can rock that. These boots look very classy and super fun on p. 4 of the catalog. Not sure if I'd wear them to school, but I'd certainly wear them out! If they don't fit over my huge calves (seriously, I have this problem every fall with tall boots), then I will be sad and will not buy them. Here's to hoping!
I jogged the entire time - broken down, that's a walk/easy stretching to the sidewalk, and then jogging to the trail, up to Knox, then a short stop for water, and then jogging until I can see the sidewalk where I started. From there I walk home and wind down, stretch my arms, etc. You know.
I have the Nike ipod shoe system, so my workout results today were:
Distance: 1.91 mi
Time: 21:31
Pace: 11:11 min/mi
Calories 198
My playlist:
Walk Away - Kelly Clarkson (light jog)
Somebody to Love - Glee Cast Version (keep warming up)
Can't Get Enough of You Baby - Smashmouth (increase intensity)
Paper Planes - M.I.A. (from Slumdog Millionaire) (continue the jog)
Pump It - Black Eyed Peas (increase speed)
Since You Been Gone - Kelly Clarkson (great one to push myself with - she's a great singer to run to)
I like to wind down to My Love - Justin Timberlake or even Candyman by Christina Aguilera
I was planning on doing yoga at noon, but after my shower, I felt that food was more important. I'll make an evening class instead. Yep! Double duty today, since I skipped yesterday. Normally I don't do that, but Vegas pool time is in my near future, so it's crunch time, people.
So, I'm trying to figure out how I'm going to buy a new pair of boots.
WHY do I love shoes so much?
I think there's something in the Filipino gene that, when compounded with the XX chromosome pair, causes our brains to believe that shoes are necessary to life. Not just a pair to protect your feet with, but multiple pairs, some of which actually hurt your feet and offer little in the way of cushion...the whole protection thing is then outweighed with the discomfort in order to wear some hot shoes. This is when I say "you just have to commit." Yes, when I come downstairs wearing a high set of heels, Todd says, "So, you're gonna commit tonight, huh?" And I answer, "Yep, sure am." There's a little non-verbal contract that runs through my head: "I understand the effort I am using to wear these heels. I have done what I can in the way of adding extra comfort with Foot Petals or Dr. Scholl's inserts. I know the approximate time frame for which I will be sitting down and have calculated the sit-down/stand up ratio for the evening. There is no going back. These shoes look awesome, and I look great in them. Time to commit."
Anyway, I have a reasonable balance of heel heights in my closet. Many shoes are perfect shoes for work. I have tile in my room, and tile is no friend to heels when I like to walk around my classroom during the day. In fact, training and workshop days are almost reserved for heels, when I know I'll get to sit down most of the day. As much as I'd love to wear heels to school, some days I know it's not worth the pain. Other days, I "commit" until I can't handle it (about 4th period), and I will change into my backup pair of flats.
So, I'd like to buy a pair of boots for the fall. The question is, where will they go? I have a limited amount of space for my shoes, and boots take up like, 3 or 4 times the space as regular shoes, especially flops or flats. I have said that I won't buy a pair of shoes unless I give away a pair. Wait! I just gave 2 pairs away this past weekend! That still doesn't make room for boots. Boots go in a certain spot in my closet and all boot spots are filled. I will have to rearrange.
Speaking of my closet...we are in a 2 BR condo with decent-sized closets. Todd and I do not share closet space, and his is definitely less packed in than mine. It's no secret that most guys have fewer shoes than girls, so I won't go there. However, when I was getting ready to move in a few years ago, I went through all of my stuff, picking out things to give to Catholic Charities and Goodwill and Salvation Army and the donation box at Albertson's. Todd was joking with me and asked how many pairs of shoes I had. Well, I'd never counted. Who needs to count when you always find yourself telling yourself "yes, I need these shoes" when your at Dillard's, or worse (really, BEST) Nordstrom! I counted. 76. No lie. I'll have to count again, since that is (I'm SURE) not accurate today.
So these boots are at Nordstrom, who is having their best ever sale right now. The Anniversary sale. These are items in for the Fall (this coming Fall) season that are on sale BEFORE the season starts. Once August 2 hits, the prices go back up. I love this sale! And! Nordstrom is the best place to buy shoes! Their customer service is unbeatable. Seriously, they will help you until you have a pair that you're happy with. Not like, Hi, I'm here to help you with shoes, but I mean, really. Helpful. For example, I bought a pair of black wedge espadrille-ish shoes a few years ago that I loved. They had a sling back style with a little button that popped off. I took them to a cobbler who was not helpful at all. They looked at it an flat out said they couldn't do anything for me. Really? For a BUTTON? So I took them to Nordstrom, where they happily gave me a new pair, no questions. Happy me walked out to wear them immediately, when a few weeks later, the button (same one) popped off again. So I took them to Nordstrom where they helped me find another pair very similar to them, that was about $15 more. I didn't want to pay the $15, but they were so cute and so button-free and a little more fancy, and the guy/girl helping was so friendly, that I happily paid $15 for my new cuter, button-free shoes. They are my go-to pair for summer.
OK, here are the shoes. The are over the knee boots, which would be an adventure in boot-wearing for me. I'm not going for the Pretty Woman thigh high boot look. More power to you if you can rock that. These boots look very classy and super fun on p. 4 of the catalog. Not sure if I'd wear them to school, but I'd certainly wear them out! If they don't fit over my huge calves (seriously, I have this problem every fall with tall boots), then I will be sad and will not buy them. Here's to hoping!
 |
| Sam Edelman "Sutton" Over the Knee Boot |
Thursday, July 15, 2010
Eye Glasses by Warby Parker
Check out this website!
Warby Parker is a company started by four guys who are providing a no-nonsense way to buy prescription glasses without breaking the bank. I saw this on Daily Candy months ago and just spent 10 minutes looking for it so that I could work on a new pair before the next school year starts in August. (Mine are about, ohhhhh, 6 years old.)
Here are some highlights: (so exciting! thus the exclamation marks!)
Many frames are $95!
Lenses are FREE!
Shipping is FREE!
You can "try on" frames on the website by uploading your own smiling face! Look--here I am! :)
You can try on frames at home for FREE! Five styles! Shipping them to you and back to them - FREE!
If you don't know your prescription, they will call your doc to find it.
It only takes 10 days or so to get your order.
If you don't like them when you get them, returns are FREE!
And the BONUS: For every pair you buy, they give a pair to someone!
Here's an excerpt from their website about it:
"Every time you buy a pair of Warby Parker glasses, we make a donation to a renowned non-profit such as Restoring Vision, which enables them to give a pair of glasses away to someone who otherwise would not have access to glasses and therefore the ability to see and work. In doing so, we help you to give someone the gift of sight."
Yea for the non-20/20 population! We have a place to find some cute, hip, inexpensive eyeglasses. I'm excited for us! I'll put a photo up once I get mine...should be late August/September.
Very cool, Warby Parker!
Warby Parker is a company started by four guys who are providing a no-nonsense way to buy prescription glasses without breaking the bank. I saw this on Daily Candy months ago and just spent 10 minutes looking for it so that I could work on a new pair before the next school year starts in August. (Mine are about, ohhhhh, 6 years old.)
Here are some highlights: (so exciting! thus the exclamation marks!)
Many frames are $95!
Lenses are FREE!
Shipping is FREE!
You can "try on" frames on the website by uploading your own smiling face! Look--here I am! :)
If you don't know your prescription, they will call your doc to find it.
It only takes 10 days or so to get your order.
If you don't like them when you get them, returns are FREE!
And the BONUS: For every pair you buy, they give a pair to someone!
Here's an excerpt from their website about it:
"Every time you buy a pair of Warby Parker glasses, we make a donation to a renowned non-profit such as Restoring Vision, which enables them to give a pair of glasses away to someone who otherwise would not have access to glasses and therefore the ability to see and work. In doing so, we help you to give someone the gift of sight."
Yea for the non-20/20 population! We have a place to find some cute, hip, inexpensive eyeglasses. I'm excited for us! I'll put a photo up once I get mine...should be late August/September.
Very cool, Warby Parker!
Friday, July 9, 2010
Vegan?
So we're going to Las Vegas in early August to celebrate birthdays (mine and one of my best friend, Laura's) and an anniversary (our 2 year). We are meeting the Paynes (Laura, Robert, and their sweet baby girl, Avery). Laura's in-laws are meeting them there to help take care of Avery. Anyway, we and the Paynes love Vegas - Laura and I celebrated our 30th birthdays there, so now we're going back for 35. We also love to travel with the Paynes! Traveling is so fun with friends!
Anyway, I am working out a little extra to be ready for our pool cabana at Mandalay Bay Beach. Don't get me wrong. I'm not a work out-aholic or a scale monster (we don't even own a scale- my clothing is my "scale") but I like to read about being healthy. I love Shape magazine because it talks about real women being healthy. It's motivating, and they have great playlist suggestions and product suggestions. So, I picked up the book Skinny Bitch by Rory Freedman and Kim Barnouin. Maybe I saw it in my Shape magazine...I can't remember. With yoga, you are supposed to incorporate healthy eating, and this book is a no-nonsense guide to eating really healthy. Within the catchy title are pages that talk about cutting out caffeine. And cutting out sugar. And cutting out alcohol. And how we need carbs. And what amino acids are. And it's pretty funny. So here I am reading it, letting it lead my brain towards knowing a type of healthy. I say "a type" because I know there are many types of healthy out there. Only it led me to a Vegan-type of healthy. Am I ready for this? I'll answer that. I'm not ready for this! So, ok. I know like 1 vegan friend, and I grew up on fish, chicken, beef, ox tail...ox tail! How much more meaty do you get? By the way, Central Market, I need some ox tail for my next Filipino dish, so please order some for me. And if you've never had it, it's like succulent prime rib, and I am not kidding. At least that's what it tastes like at my parents' house.
I was able to finish the book and say, "That was a good perspective to learn about." I did start incorporating a few things from the book already. Buying more organic produce, for example. When I read about all of the toxic stuff that goes into our foods, it's worth it to me to spend a few more cents on organic. Yuk. Seriously. I haven't even seen Food, Inc. yet. I won't even go into the meat industry. I start my day with fruit. I eat more whole grains. Yea! Carbs! I've always eaten them...just saying yea for kicks! :) I drink decaf green tea (iced...it's way too hot for hot beverages) and less coffee. I don't miss coffee yet. We'll see what happens when school starts up again. And I try to pay attention to how foods make me feel. (that's hard...how long do I wait?)
I am not going to preach about this because, really, I don't even know where I stand yet. I'm in a food limbo of sorts. My friend Aleisha is writing about her family's journey to find wholeness. Including foods. I need to read your blog more, Aleisha!
I will say that I'm now OK with being lactose intolerant. I've never said that before. It's pulling at me...just the idea that there is more written and filmed out there that I could explore if I'm ready for it. I've never noticed how much I just didn't WANT to know before. Oh dear, filet steak. I have a new-found appreciation for vegans now. HOW do you do it? I hereby salute you and your will power!
Anyway, I am working out a little extra to be ready for our pool cabana at Mandalay Bay Beach. Don't get me wrong. I'm not a work out-aholic or a scale monster (we don't even own a scale- my clothing is my "scale") but I like to read about being healthy. I love Shape magazine because it talks about real women being healthy. It's motivating, and they have great playlist suggestions and product suggestions. So, I picked up the book Skinny Bitch by Rory Freedman and Kim Barnouin. Maybe I saw it in my Shape magazine...I can't remember. With yoga, you are supposed to incorporate healthy eating, and this book is a no-nonsense guide to eating really healthy. Within the catchy title are pages that talk about cutting out caffeine. And cutting out sugar. And cutting out alcohol. And how we need carbs. And what amino acids are. And it's pretty funny. So here I am reading it, letting it lead my brain towards knowing a type of healthy. I say "a type" because I know there are many types of healthy out there. Only it led me to a Vegan-type of healthy. Am I ready for this? I'll answer that. I'm not ready for this! So, ok. I know like 1 vegan friend, and I grew up on fish, chicken, beef, ox tail...ox tail! How much more meaty do you get? By the way, Central Market, I need some ox tail for my next Filipino dish, so please order some for me. And if you've never had it, it's like succulent prime rib, and I am not kidding. At least that's what it tastes like at my parents' house.
I was able to finish the book and say, "That was a good perspective to learn about." I did start incorporating a few things from the book already. Buying more organic produce, for example. When I read about all of the toxic stuff that goes into our foods, it's worth it to me to spend a few more cents on organic. Yuk. Seriously. I haven't even seen Food, Inc. yet. I won't even go into the meat industry. I start my day with fruit. I eat more whole grains. Yea! Carbs! I've always eaten them...just saying yea for kicks! :) I drink decaf green tea (iced...it's way too hot for hot beverages) and less coffee. I don't miss coffee yet. We'll see what happens when school starts up again. And I try to pay attention to how foods make me feel. (that's hard...how long do I wait?)
I am not going to preach about this because, really, I don't even know where I stand yet. I'm in a food limbo of sorts. My friend Aleisha is writing about her family's journey to find wholeness. Including foods. I need to read your blog more, Aleisha!
I will say that I'm now OK with being lactose intolerant. I've never said that before. It's pulling at me...just the idea that there is more written and filmed out there that I could explore if I'm ready for it. I've never noticed how much I just didn't WANT to know before. Oh dear, filet steak. I have a new-found appreciation for vegans now. HOW do you do it? I hereby salute you and your will power!
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Chicken Adobo
Last night's dinner
I made Chicken Adobo last night. It was my 3rd or 4th time to make it, but this was definitely the best batch so far. It's so easy, and it's delicious. We grew up having "adobo" approximately once a week. It's equivalent to any other chicken dish that you may have had once a week. Mmmm...it is YUMMY. Even my cookbook says, "This Philippine classic has been called the best chicken dish in the world by a number of friends of mine." (How to Cook Everything by Mark Bittman, 1998) Great book, by the way - we received this as a wedding gift from one of my students. AND, there is a new edition out, plus a vegetarian book, and others that look good.
Here's the recipe from page 377 with some of my own adjustments:
1 cup soy sauce
1/2 cup white vinegar
1 cup water
3 tsp minced garlic (can be chopped)
2 bay leaves
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
10 or so chicken drumsticks (you can use thighs or the whole chicken; I grew up with the legs)
*It was raining yesterday, so I just sauteed it on the stove. I actually do not remember my parents grilling or broiling after boiling, but here's the rest of the recipe from my book:
While it is boiling...
Now that I think about it, Dad did sometimes grill it. It was called "barbeque." The prep work was just the same as making Adobo. Isn't it funny how we grow up with different ideas about things?
Another note: you can make a smaller batch. Just use less chicken. The 10 drumsticks is enough for dinner for Todd and me, plus leftovers for tonight. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave!
Also, you may have noticed that this has zero vegetables. We were going to make corn on the cob but didn't because we were pretty full on the guacamole I'd whipped up. Growing up, adobo wasn't ever the only thing served that night. We'd have sinegang (fish stew- so yummy - haven't learned that recipe yet), or some other form of fish that probably included bok choy at the very least, plus 2-3 mangoes peeled and sliced. Make it your own!
I made Chicken Adobo last night. It was my 3rd or 4th time to make it, but this was definitely the best batch so far. It's so easy, and it's delicious. We grew up having "adobo" approximately once a week. It's equivalent to any other chicken dish that you may have had once a week. Mmmm...it is YUMMY. Even my cookbook says, "This Philippine classic has been called the best chicken dish in the world by a number of friends of mine." (How to Cook Everything by Mark Bittman, 1998) Great book, by the way - we received this as a wedding gift from one of my students. AND, there is a new edition out, plus a vegetarian book, and others that look good.
Here's the recipe from page 377 with some of my own adjustments:
1 cup soy sauce
1/2 cup white vinegar
1 cup water
3 tsp minced garlic (can be chopped)
2 bay leaves
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
10 or so chicken drumsticks (you can use thighs or the whole chicken; I grew up with the legs)
- Trim the chicken legs.
- Combine the first six ingredients in a covered pot. Bring to boil over high heat. Add the chicken; reduce the heat to medium-low and cook, covered, for about 30 minutes. Turn once or twice. Make sure all of the chicken is MOSTLY under water. Add water if you need to. I added a full cup of water.
- Prepare a small pan on the stove*, and quickly saute the chicken, about 1 minute per side. Return the chicken to the broth until ready to serve. Serve over steamed rice, and make sure to use the sauce!
*It was raining yesterday, so I just sauteed it on the stove. I actually do not remember my parents grilling or broiling after boiling, but here's the rest of the recipe from my book:
While it is boiling...
- Start a charcoal or wood fire or preheat a gas grill or broiler. The fire need not be too hot, but place the rack just 3 or 4 inches from the heat source.
- Remove the chicken and dry it gently with paper towels. Boil the sauce over high heat until it is reduced to about 1 cup; discard the bay leaves and keep the sauce warm. Meanwhile, grill or broil the chicken until brown and crisp, about 5 minutes per side. Serve the chicken with the sauce and white rice.
Now that I think about it, Dad did sometimes grill it. It was called "barbeque." The prep work was just the same as making Adobo. Isn't it funny how we grow up with different ideas about things?
Another note: you can make a smaller batch. Just use less chicken. The 10 drumsticks is enough for dinner for Todd and me, plus leftovers for tonight. Just reheat on the stove or in the microwave!
Also, you may have noticed that this has zero vegetables. We were going to make corn on the cob but didn't because we were pretty full on the guacamole I'd whipped up. Growing up, adobo wasn't ever the only thing served that night. We'd have sinegang (fish stew- so yummy - haven't learned that recipe yet), or some other form of fish that probably included bok choy at the very least, plus 2-3 mangoes peeled and sliced. Make it your own!
Rafting Trip 2010
Rafting Trip 2010
Ok, there it is! I had to try that out. So Animoto can be posted directly onto your blog, to Facebook, and a slew of other social networks. You can create a free account at Animoto.com
It will let you make free 30-second videos. If you want to create longer videos, it's about $30/year. If you are an educator you can create a free educator account, which includes an account for each student that you teach, as well as the ability to create videos up to 10 minutes long (called an All-Access Pass). Let me know if you want to know more!
Ok, there it is! I had to try that out. So Animoto can be posted directly onto your blog, to Facebook, and a slew of other social networks. You can create a free account at Animoto.com
It will let you make free 30-second videos. If you want to create longer videos, it's about $30/year. If you are an educator you can create a free educator account, which includes an account for each student that you teach, as well as the ability to create videos up to 10 minutes long (called an All-Access Pass). Let me know if you want to know more!
More paper!
Check these out! Daily Candy sent this info this morning.
Satsuma Press - one woman who makes letterpress. I'd LOVE to learn how to do that!
Here is Daily Candy's write-up:
MAIL
Satsuma Press
What: One-woman operation pumps out delectable letterpressed paper goods ($5-$50). Botanicals (maple seeds, water lilies) and whimsicals (banner flags, tandem bikes) pop on pure cotton paper.
Why: We’re amazed when one person can do so much so well. (It took a team of fifteen to write this sentence.)
Where: Online at shop.satsumapress.com.
Satsuma Press
What: One-woman operation pumps out delectable letterpressed paper goods ($5-$50). Botanicals (maple seeds, water lilies) and whimsicals (banner flags, tandem bikes) pop on pure cotton paper.
Why: We’re amazed when one person can do so much so well. (It took a team of fifteen to write this sentence.)
Where: Online at shop.satsumapress.com.
And another cute one:
CORRESPOND
Dear Blank Please Blank
What: A highly addictive forum of short, user-generated letters and quippy salutations addressed to life’s problems.
Why: Prime example, “Dear Twilight fans, thank you for making us look sane and well adjusted. Sincerely, Trekkies.”
Where: Online at dearblankpleaseblank.com.
Dear Blank Please Blank
What: A highly addictive forum of short, user-generated letters and quippy salutations addressed to life’s problems.
Why: Prime example, “Dear Twilight fans, thank you for making us look sane and well adjusted. Sincerely, Trekkies.”
Where: Online at dearblankpleaseblank.com.
Thanks, Daily Candy!
On another, completely different note, watch this video I made from our Denver, CO rafting photos. Animoto is a website we use at school. Our students like using it to create video slideshows. The great thing is that Animoto does all of the transitions for you, to the beat of whatever music you choose! Plus it's viewable by a web link (rather than sending a huge file that may or may not get to its destination).
Enjoy!
Friday, July 2, 2010
It's July!
First of all, this is cute: Set Editions
Get 25% off with DCDEALS (Daily Candy, a fun online newsletter with things to do, see, buy, eat, etc)
I LOVE paper. I have always loved stationery, and I've always loved writing to people -- sending cards, sending letters. My cousins and grandmother were my main pen pals. I think it's sad that we send fewer real cards via the real mail. I don't care if it uses more paper. The feeling I get when I open a personal piece of mail is just so great. And I like to send them just as much. I mailed 6 pieces out this morning, as a matter of fact. Send a card to a friend who lives far away! Do it!
Speaking of stationery, here are my two FAVORITE companies. I based my home-made wedding invitations on them.
WileyValentine
Mr. Boddington's Studio
Are they not gorgeous? I haven't used them yet, but one day....
Now...can you BELIEVE it's July?!
Every June I get so excited because the summer is finally here! Since I'm a teacher, this is a time that is much-needed and much-appreciated. It's time to sleep in, work out, stay up late, work another job, travel if you have it in your budget, and really, just take life one day at a time. Usually I teach a couple of weeks of Junior Sailing Camp. This year, I am trying to just BE. I have plenty keeping me busy. Curriculum writing, my Masters. But, oh to have a summer where I get to READ! Prior to June, I hadn't read anything besides textbooks for my Masters. I am happy to announce that I have read several books! In one month! This is fast for me, so I'm excited.
Here's what I've read so far:
A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L'Engle
Were you like me and read it in gradeschool and really didn't get it, fully? Yeah, so I re-read it and I'm now going to reference it when I teach my students about Einstein. It was cute. You know, it's a good gradeschool science fiction book. And it's a classic.
The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins (image from Google Books)
If you want a book that you cannot put down, here it is. You're welcome. If you are one of my friends who I got to read the Twilight series (you know who you are), here is another series that you just might love and then hate in the morning after you stayed up until 1 or 2 or 3 am reading until you fell asleep. Seriously good.
In fact, my yoga group is reading it for our new book club! I am hosting our first meeting this month!
Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins (image from Google Books)
I couldn't resist. I snuck into the school library to get this off of the shelf and returned it a couple of DAYS later. Yes, it reads so fast because you can't put it down. And I am just BE-ing this summer, so I have the luxury of reading all morning if I want, and I finished it in a couple of days. Teaching is grand sometimes...*happy sigh.* The final installment of this series comes out in August.
Code Orange by Caroline Cooney (image from Amazon.com.)
One of my students gave this book to me during the Book Fair three (yes, 3) years ago after I read selections from The Hot Zone by Richard Preston. What a cool thing that the student was so interested in the topic of a) science fiction, b) infectious disease, and c) reading, that he bought Code Orange for me! I have enough books now to start a personal library of books that the students can borrow. This one I've seen in the hands of many 6th graders, and they love it. I even read reviews by teens online who love it. I didn't love it, but it gets to go on my list of books I've read this summer. Check!
Now, The Hot Zone is a great book! It's very gross. If you like books like Jurassic Park by Michael Crighton, then dig into this one. It's about Ebola and it's sister virus, Marburg. And it's a true story, which makes it even more eerie. Way cool, gross stuff for 6th graders, and they love it when I *beep* out the profanity. I love the innocence of my kids!
So what to read now? Well, since you're asking:
The Adoration of Jenna Fox by Mary E. Pearson (image from Amazon.com)
This is good so far! We'll see how it turns out.
You may have noticed that these are all Young Adult fiction, except for The Hot Zone. I'm trying to read what the students are reading, and I will say that The Hunger Games series doesn't feel so "young" when I was reading it. And hey, you made it through the Harry Potter series and the Twilight series, right? (If you haven't read those, go get them...they are fantastic!) After the Jenna Fox book, I'll venture into something not found on the Teen Shelf.
Enjoy the rain, DFW!
Get 25% off with DCDEALS (Daily Candy, a fun online newsletter with things to do, see, buy, eat, etc)
I LOVE paper. I have always loved stationery, and I've always loved writing to people -- sending cards, sending letters. My cousins and grandmother were my main pen pals. I think it's sad that we send fewer real cards via the real mail. I don't care if it uses more paper. The feeling I get when I open a personal piece of mail is just so great. And I like to send them just as much. I mailed 6 pieces out this morning, as a matter of fact. Send a card to a friend who lives far away! Do it!
Speaking of stationery, here are my two FAVORITE companies. I based my home-made wedding invitations on them.
WileyValentine
Mr. Boddington's Studio
Are they not gorgeous? I haven't used them yet, but one day....
Now...can you BELIEVE it's July?!
Every June I get so excited because the summer is finally here! Since I'm a teacher, this is a time that is much-needed and much-appreciated. It's time to sleep in, work out, stay up late, work another job, travel if you have it in your budget, and really, just take life one day at a time. Usually I teach a couple of weeks of Junior Sailing Camp. This year, I am trying to just BE. I have plenty keeping me busy. Curriculum writing, my Masters. But, oh to have a summer where I get to READ! Prior to June, I hadn't read anything besides textbooks for my Masters. I am happy to announce that I have read several books! In one month! This is fast for me, so I'm excited.
Here's what I've read so far:
Were you like me and read it in gradeschool and really didn't get it, fully? Yeah, so I re-read it and I'm now going to reference it when I teach my students about Einstein. It was cute. You know, it's a good gradeschool science fiction book. And it's a classic.
If you want a book that you cannot put down, here it is. You're welcome. If you are one of my friends who I got to read the Twilight series (you know who you are), here is another series that you just might love and then hate in the morning after you stayed up until 1 or 2 or 3 am reading until you fell asleep. Seriously good.
In fact, my yoga group is reading it for our new book club! I am hosting our first meeting this month!
I couldn't resist. I snuck into the school library to get this off of the shelf and returned it a couple of DAYS later. Yes, it reads so fast because you can't put it down. And I am just BE-ing this summer, so I have the luxury of reading all morning if I want, and I finished it in a couple of days. Teaching is grand sometimes...*happy sigh.* The final installment of this series comes out in August.
One of my students gave this book to me during the Book Fair three (yes, 3) years ago after I read selections from The Hot Zone by Richard Preston. What a cool thing that the student was so interested in the topic of a) science fiction, b) infectious disease, and c) reading, that he bought Code Orange for me! I have enough books now to start a personal library of books that the students can borrow. This one I've seen in the hands of many 6th graders, and they love it. I even read reviews by teens online who love it. I didn't love it, but it gets to go on my list of books I've read this summer. Check!
Now, The Hot Zone is a great book! It's very gross. If you like books like Jurassic Park by Michael Crighton, then dig into this one. It's about Ebola and it's sister virus, Marburg. And it's a true story, which makes it even more eerie. Way cool, gross stuff for 6th graders, and they love it when I *beep* out the profanity. I love the innocence of my kids!
So what to read now? Well, since you're asking:
This is good so far! We'll see how it turns out.
You may have noticed that these are all Young Adult fiction, except for The Hot Zone. I'm trying to read what the students are reading, and I will say that The Hunger Games series doesn't feel so "young" when I was reading it. And hey, you made it through the Harry Potter series and the Twilight series, right? (If you haven't read those, go get them...they are fantastic!) After the Jenna Fox book, I'll venture into something not found on the Teen Shelf.
Enjoy the rain, DFW!
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Project 21 ends and 40 Days Level II begins
So I did 11 days of Project 21. I pulled my neck last Monday and had to stay home from work. Todd stayed home to help me move around (yes, it was pretty bad...I could not move my neck in any direction. Just holding it up hurt.) Thanks to some muscle relaxers, I was back at work on Tuesday. I have taken an entire week to rest, and I made it back to yoga today!
So Level II started last Thursday. The first meeting was on Wednesday, and it was great to see old friends from the Level I group and meet some new people. Yea! OK, let me introduce you to the Level II challenges. :)
6 days of yoga per week
Meditation twice per day
Healthy foods and a journal to keep track
Reference the 40 Days book from level I
Read A Complaint Free World
Read Three Minute Meditations
Journal about different topics each week
So tomorrow will be the end of week 1 (the theme is PRESENCE). Here's how I did:
1 day of yoga (due to neck issues)
1 meditation (5 minutes) - well...this is a real challenge for me. I will work on it during week 2.
My food journal is actually showing me that I will ALWAYS indulge if sweet are available (ie- today's cakeball and LARGE Celebrity Bakery cookie (shaped like a wedding dress...super cute), along with student birthday m&m cookie from JD's Chippery (I ate 1/2...I always save some for Todd, although clearly, I didn't need the 1/2). I do consciously choose healthier options most of the time. It's a good challenge to have to write it all down. I don't want to write burger and fries, and I feel good writing sushi or salad or fish.
I read all of A Complaint Free World this weekend...it is pretty inspiring! It challenges us to go 21 days without complaining or gossiping. As you know, I'm a teacher. Gossiping is hard to escape. So I put on a bracelet (my nephew Nathan made one for me for Christmas - it says "See light in the darkness. Love, Nathan" - perfect!) and every time I complain out loud, I move it to the other wrist. Join me and try it out!
The book is a very fast read, and I really like the message it sends. There are stories to read about others who have been successful with the challenge. Anyway, I highly recommend this to everyone.
We wrote in our journal about:
5 things that have changed in my life since I started yoga.
What I complain about.
I'll post about those later.
I like the meditation book, but I am not done with it yet. It's good so far though...and I am determined to bring meditation into my life!
The presence theme...being present for others does take some effort. I spent the weekend in Austin with some girls at a friend's bachelorette party, and we had a great time! I think I was present for the girl of honor. :) Todd took me on a date last night. We had a nice dinner at Avanti on McKinney and were present for one another there. I try to be present for my students at school. Although, it's really easy to want to ignore half of what 12 year olds say...I won't lie. Not that it's all dumb stuff...but lots of silly stuff, for sure. :)
Man, an ant just bit my arm. (as I move my bracelet because typing is basically saying something out loud- you can "hear" me)
OK, goodnight!
So Level II started last Thursday. The first meeting was on Wednesday, and it was great to see old friends from the Level I group and meet some new people. Yea! OK, let me introduce you to the Level II challenges. :)
6 days of yoga per week
Meditation twice per day
Healthy foods and a journal to keep track
Reference the 40 Days book from level I
Read A Complaint Free World
Read Three Minute Meditations
Journal about different topics each week
So tomorrow will be the end of week 1 (the theme is PRESENCE). Here's how I did:
1 day of yoga (due to neck issues)
1 meditation (5 minutes) - well...this is a real challenge for me. I will work on it during week 2.
My food journal is actually showing me that I will ALWAYS indulge if sweet are available (ie- today's cakeball and LARGE Celebrity Bakery cookie (shaped like a wedding dress...super cute), along with student birthday m&m cookie from JD's Chippery (I ate 1/2...I always save some for Todd, although clearly, I didn't need the 1/2). I do consciously choose healthier options most of the time. It's a good challenge to have to write it all down. I don't want to write burger and fries, and I feel good writing sushi or salad or fish.
I read all of A Complaint Free World this weekend...it is pretty inspiring! It challenges us to go 21 days without complaining or gossiping. As you know, I'm a teacher. Gossiping is hard to escape. So I put on a bracelet (my nephew Nathan made one for me for Christmas - it says "See light in the darkness. Love, Nathan" - perfect!) and every time I complain out loud, I move it to the other wrist. Join me and try it out!
The book is a very fast read, and I really like the message it sends. There are stories to read about others who have been successful with the challenge. Anyway, I highly recommend this to everyone.
We wrote in our journal about:
5 things that have changed in my life since I started yoga.
What I complain about.
I'll post about those later.
I like the meditation book, but I am not done with it yet. It's good so far though...and I am determined to bring meditation into my life!
The presence theme...being present for others does take some effort. I spent the weekend in Austin with some girls at a friend's bachelorette party, and we had a great time! I think I was present for the girl of honor. :) Todd took me on a date last night. We had a nice dinner at Avanti on McKinney and were present for one another there. I try to be present for my students at school. Although, it's really easy to want to ignore half of what 12 year olds say...I won't lie. Not that it's all dumb stuff...but lots of silly stuff, for sure. :)
Man, an ant just bit my arm. (as I move my bracelet because typing is basically saying something out loud- you can "hear" me)
OK, goodnight!
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Project 21 Days 7, 8, 9
Despite my slower week of yoga, I managed to get onto my mat on Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday. I fell into the "I can catch up later" idea-- when really, if I'm going to do 21 days of yoga, I need to just do it. Not plan on doing it. You know? If only I could apply this thinking to doing my Masters assignments. Another whole weekend working on it.
I did spend some time shopping today! It was so fun to go to Anthropologie in Highland Park Village and peruse the shelves and see what was in. I ended up buying a super cute apron for myself, a button down shirt for myself, and a very cute skirt for myself. :) Hey, remember that I gave up Anthropologie for Lent! Today was my first day back...ahhhh, it was like a breath of fresh shopping air. I just love that store!
OK, gotta get some sleep before tomorrow's 9am class and all day of reading and finishing my week 2 assignment. Night, friends!
I did spend some time shopping today! It was so fun to go to Anthropologie in Highland Park Village and peruse the shelves and see what was in. I ended up buying a super cute apron for myself, a button down shirt for myself, and a very cute skirt for myself. :) Hey, remember that I gave up Anthropologie for Lent! Today was my first day back...ahhhh, it was like a breath of fresh shopping air. I just love that store!
OK, gotta get some sleep before tomorrow's 9am class and all day of reading and finishing my week 2 assignment. Night, friends!
Sunday, April 18, 2010
Project 21 - Days 4, 5, and 6
No lie, my friends! I have done 6 days of yoga thus far! SIX!
Oh, yes. I made it to yoga on Thursday, Friday for the Hour of Power, and this morning at 9 am with Janie...my left hip was talking to me all through church today.
OK, so my computer is on the fritz. I was working on my masters assignment, and I had to redo it about 5 times (no exaggeration- seriously, I was in tears, it sucked so badly). I downloaded a free security program (Google's! I LOVE all things Google, so I am not going to comment on whether or not it is Google's fault. Because Google can do no wrong. It (Google) is amazing and so are all of their awesome products and applications. But that's another post. My hubby is going to fix this machine. So have a great week, and I'll see you on the flip side! (Wha? Seriously, I don't know where that came from...I've never used that phrase; even when it was cool, I wasn't saying it. What EVS.
Yep, I don't ever say that one either. ANYWAY....)
Oh, yes. I made it to yoga on Thursday, Friday for the Hour of Power, and this morning at 9 am with Janie...my left hip was talking to me all through church today.
OK, so my computer is on the fritz. I was working on my masters assignment, and I had to redo it about 5 times (no exaggeration- seriously, I was in tears, it sucked so badly). I downloaded a free security program (Google's! I LOVE all things Google, so I am not going to comment on whether or not it is Google's fault. Because Google can do no wrong. It (Google) is amazing and so are all of their awesome products and applications. But that's another post. My hubby is going to fix this machine. So have a great week, and I'll see you on the flip side! (Wha? Seriously, I don't know where that came from...I've never used that phrase; even when it was cool, I wasn't saying it. What EVS.
Yep, I don't ever say that one either. ANYWAY....)
Wednesday, April 14, 2010
No downward facing dog today
I had a 7:15 meeting this morning and a late day at work. Yoga tomorrow, my friends. Sleep tight!
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
Project 21 - Day 3
I made it to the 5:00 class! It was great. Hard, but really, I wish the whole day felt like I felt after that class. Happy and amazed that I could push myself into a triangle twist with both arms lifted and my heart shining up.
OK, so I decided to tackle a new recipe tonight. I got a Williams-Sonoma Salad cookbook from a friend at work (thank you!) and found a chicken and orzo salad. It's actually the first recipe for me to try from this book (as well as the first recipe listed IN the book), and I've had it a while (I won't say how long). Anyway, it calls for cherry tomatoes and baby spinach, so I thought it sounded tasty and healthy. Yum! Plus cherry tomatoes (the super sized ones) were on sale at Newflower Farmers Market. Look at them! Don't they look so good? I put a cutie orange next to them to show some scale. (And yes, I took these photos...with my phone...and uploaded them to my laptop via Bluetooth. Call me a techie!) I ate two of them while I was cooking and saved a few for lunch tomorrow. I also used Organic Girl's Baby Spinach, which boasts being "washed three times so you don't have to." OK. I guess we'll find out how Todd and I feel tomorrow because I didn't wash them, and it seemed to turn out alright, even though everything in my head about fresh spinach said, "Just wash them! Remember the e-coli outbreak?" (Was it even e-coli? I'd have to look that up. I just remember something about spinach and another thing about peanut butter. Back to the recipe. All you have to do is cook the orzo, add a pesto vinaigrette dressing that is super easy to whisk together, and then toss the ingredients together, and voila! An orzo and chicken salad adorns your dinner table.
It was delicious! We both liked it. The pesto was even just pesto in a jar, which is not my first choice, however, it was also on sale and was quite YUM. (W-S recommends pesto in plastic containers on the shelf, which are homemade [and I'm sure very obviously more fresh and tasty than the jar we bought (really?). OK, maybe more fresh, but our jar was again, quite tasty! I'm all for fresh food; don't get me wrong.])
I will be bringing leftovers for lunch tomorrow.
Now, while I'm on an uploading kick, check out this photo of me in our nephew's new go-cart. Yes, they get all kinds of cool toys. And here's one of Todd. We had fun riding in it!
OK, so I decided to tackle a new recipe tonight. I got a Williams-Sonoma Salad cookbook from a friend at work (thank you!) and found a chicken and orzo salad. It's actually the first recipe for me to try from this book (as well as the first recipe listed IN the book), and I've had it a while (I won't say how long). Anyway, it calls for cherry tomatoes and baby spinach, so I thought it sounded tasty and healthy. Yum! Plus cherry tomatoes (the super sized ones) were on sale at Newflower Farmers Market. Look at them! Don't they look so good? I put a cutie orange next to them to show some scale. (And yes, I took these photos...with my phone...and uploaded them to my laptop via Bluetooth. Call me a techie!) I ate two of them while I was cooking and saved a few for lunch tomorrow. I also used Organic Girl's Baby Spinach, which boasts being "washed three times so you don't have to." OK. I guess we'll find out how Todd and I feel tomorrow because I didn't wash them, and it seemed to turn out alright, even though everything in my head about fresh spinach said, "Just wash them! Remember the e-coli outbreak?" (Was it even e-coli? I'd have to look that up. I just remember something about spinach and another thing about peanut butter. Back to the recipe. All you have to do is cook the orzo, add a pesto vinaigrette dressing that is super easy to whisk together, and then toss the ingredients together, and voila! An orzo and chicken salad adorns your dinner table.
It was delicious! We both liked it. The pesto was even just pesto in a jar, which is not my first choice, however, it was also on sale and was quite YUM. (W-S recommends pesto in plastic containers on the shelf, which are homemade [and I'm sure very obviously more fresh and tasty than the jar we bought (really?). OK, maybe more fresh, but our jar was again, quite tasty! I'm all for fresh food; don't get me wrong.])
I will be bringing leftovers for lunch tomorrow.
Monday, April 12, 2010
Project 21 - Days 1 and 2
OK!
I started Project 21 on Saturday with a killer class by Karen. Man! I could not get up on Sunday. So I slept in. :) And I went today at 6:30 and had a great class. So if I do all 21 days in this 30-day period, that means I need to go 5 days a week, and 6 days one of the weeks. I'm going to try to go every day this week (minus yesterday). Yow.
The idea behind Project 21 is that it takes 21 days to start a habit. I like that. Usually people talk about quitting bad habits, rather than starting good habits. What good habit do you want to start? Join me on my 21 day journey!
All proceeds from Project 21 go to Eagle Rock School in Colorado. We sent in charity ideas and drew one out of the hat on Saturday to kick off the program. Yea!
Now for some sleep. We are making NASA Mars Landers in class tomorrow, so I need some good rest. (Getting a full night's rest would be another good habit to start.) Have a great week!
I started Project 21 on Saturday with a killer class by Karen. Man! I could not get up on Sunday. So I slept in. :) And I went today at 6:30 and had a great class. So if I do all 21 days in this 30-day period, that means I need to go 5 days a week, and 6 days one of the weeks. I'm going to try to go every day this week (minus yesterday). Yow.
The idea behind Project 21 is that it takes 21 days to start a habit. I like that. Usually people talk about quitting bad habits, rather than starting good habits. What good habit do you want to start? Join me on my 21 day journey!
All proceeds from Project 21 go to Eagle Rock School in Colorado. We sent in charity ideas and drew one out of the hat on Saturday to kick off the program. Yea!
Now for some sleep. We are making NASA Mars Landers in class tomorrow, so I need some good rest. (Getting a full night's rest would be another good habit to start.) Have a great week!
Thursday, March 25, 2010
40 Days Victorious
CELEBRATION!
The 40 Days of Yoga ended pretty well. (It actually ended a couple of weeks ago. I'm just posting late.) Our last meeting ended with us talking about what we took away from the process. Here were my thoughts:
1.) Physical improvements
I'm WAY stronger in my arms than I've ever been, even more so than the barbell class I used to take at the gym. Who's ready for Spring? My arms are! (I would totally post a cute top from Anthropologie here, but I gave it up for Lent. Not joking. I was slightly obsessed.)
2.) Exercise as a priority
My thighs are tighter (another physical improvement). I have pretty strong legs, but I've never called them "tight." When I was a kid, I did ballet and jazz, and they were probably tight then, but who cares or notices when you're 12? No one does, and it's so great! Then you turn 15 and you...kind of...care. Marching band (yep, I said it) kept my legs lean in high school, only I really didn't appreciate my slammin' body then because I only KIND OF cared. Then you go to college and care a little more, but you're not even into your twenties enough to feel the need (or appear to need) to work out yet. After that, you graduate and decide to join a gym. So you start working out a couple times a week to keep the weekend beverages off of your thighs and midsection, but you can still do Taco Cabana or pizza late night after dancing (which counts as a work out...maybe even two if you go out twice in a weekend...highly likely in my case). THEN you turn 30. And you think, "What HAPPENED?" I found myself upping my work out schedule to 3 days a week for maintenance...maintenance of sanity and to keep my body healthy.
Now I'm 34 and I dance less. I go to Taco Cabana late at night less because I go dancing/out less (don't judge the fact that dancing is so closely linked to TC). And ok, I still eat pizza. I want to care about my health. And my husband. And my job. And my masters. We don't even have a dog, so kids would clearly rattle our schedule. Todd and I believe that making exercise part of our lives now is so important to the health of our future family. Both of us chose to make exercise a part of our lives after college, so it has become something that we love to do after 10 (ok, more than 10) years. We both spend a portion of our budgets on it. (Yep, separate "fun budgets." It's the best thing ever when I buy shoes and he says how awesome they are!) We talk every day after work about who is working out, what type of exercise we are doing, and then what we want to do for dinner. I know that having kids is going to change EVERYTHING, so for now, we are concentrating on our lives NOW. And right now, we can keep our exercise schedules a high priority.
3) Being non-reactive
The 40 day program taught me to control how much I react in life. Think about how reactive you are during the day. I spilled my coffee!! Crap!! Anger sets in, and I'm shorter with my students in the morning. That's a small example. I have been hit with some really cruddy days lately in my personal life, and if I were to react to them like I used to, I'd be a basket case. We all have our hardships in life, and my beliefs tell me that there is something good in store! Yoga practice has helped me to take things in, allow them to sit for a while, and then react less or differently or not at all. I ought to measure my blood pressure, actually. It runs in the family. Here's how yoga helped me: For 75 minutes, I push my body into postures, some of which are enjoyable, and some of which are down right HARD. It doesn't really matter if I'm "good at yoga"...there is no real measure of good or bad when it comes to yoga. The mere fact that I CAN do yoga with my body is something we celebrate at practice! The mirrors are covered so I can concentrate on my own body. I take from practice what I need for that day. Some days I need child's pose. On really powerful days, I can actually get into crow. (YES! FINALLY!) With the poses, I used to find myself wanting to quit or make it easier on myself. My legs would shake, I'd sweat like crazy, breathe uncontrollably, and think the teacher was so hard. (In kickboxing, I'd actually verbalize this--"OH MY GOD I'M DYING" -- a little dramatic, yes? Todd helped me turn that phrase into "THIS IS WHERE CHAMPIONS ARE MADE! He's so positive, it's sick, isn't it? :) I love it!) But the teachers at Yoga Sport are so GREAT. They guide you in the difficulty of a pose and tell you to just let that leg shake and just breathe through it. I concentrated on breathing long, full breaths, and after the shaking ended (ie-after the pose ended...for sure, I will shake the WHOLE time I'm in a pose some days), I'd tell myself how cool I was that I not only survived, but that I held it out! Letting myself not react on my mat transferred to parts of my life. Taking things in stride. That is one big victory.
3.) Perfectionism denied
I was in a meeting with some teachers yesterday, and the counselor described some students as "paralyzed perfectionists." I tend to be a perfectionist. I think I show this "paralyzed" characteristic sometimes. I went into the 40 Days thinking I could do all parts so well. Practice 6 days a week, eat healthy foods at every meal, meditate twice a day.... Well, my high standards were setting me up for disappointment really fast. At the beginning, I'd get down on myself for not going to the studio or for snacking on Valentine's candy. I'd miss entire days of yoga...all parts - practice, nutrition, and meditation. But I always made it to those weekly meetings. I would go when I could and told myself to be happy with that. Toward the end of the program, I learned to be OK with whatever I COULD do. I don't have to do it all. But what I can do, I'll do well.
Besides that, my nutrition portion could have been much better. Todd and I eat out A LOT. And we love it! We do try to cook more, but we do not say we eat out too much. We just enjoy that we CAN. Anyway, it's something I'll work on more next time. Meditation. What meditation? Yeah, that was the hardest part for me, even though I imagine it to be the most restorative part. Again, I'll work on it. What I did get out of the program was enough to keep me coming back for more! I'm already ready for the next time!
We celebrated by practicing together in our new cute pink tank tops that say "If you can, you must," and then changed into dry clothes to visit the wine bar downstairs, Winetastic. We had a great time getting to know one another more closely and of course, drinking yummy wine!
I am ready for the next 40 days. In fact, Angela is doing a Level Two class in May. I am going to sign up tonight! In the mean time, I've signed up for this:
Project 21: The New Challenge Returns
- April 10th – May 9th
- Attend 21 classes in 30 days
- Vote for your favorite charity
SAT FLASHBACK:The number 21 refers to
a) The age when you can legally drink
b) A card game
c) The name of a television show from the 1980s starring Johnny Depp and Richard Greico
d) none of the above
This spring at YogaSport we want you to choose “d) none of the above,” and redefine the number 21! Research shows that it takes 21 days to develop a habit. By creating a yoga habit, you’ll not only impact your own life but also the lives of those on the other side of the globe. Starting on Saturday, April 10th, commit to taking a total of 21 yoga classes in 30 days. Challenge yourself, reach out to others, and be in awe of what flourishes. The proceeds go to a charity that will be drawn from a raffle on the first day.
Last year, after my 1 week for $15 trial period, I started with the 21 Day Project with proceeds going towards Africa Yoga and to help spread the teaching of yoga in Africa. Really cool.
I've come full circle. Yea!
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