So, one of my resolutions was accomplished today. Well, one and a half - actually.
Not only did I take a half day today -- but I actually went to the movies!
G & I went to see "The Fighter".
Really a good movie; but wow - the buzz surrounding Christian Bale is no joke. He was fantastic.
And for those of us who are from the Boston area and are familiar with Dicky Ecklund & Micky Ward can truly appreciate the performance. Top notch, without doubt.
And then.....
after the kids went to bed, we watched "The Book of Eli". I love Denzel anyway, so I figured it would be good, but such a thoughtful and creative movie. I really enjoyed the premise and all the analogies and comparisons to the Catholic religion, as well as our own humanity and often times - lack thereof.
Two movies in one day.
Looks like I'm off to a good start, eh?
Showing posts with label Self Improvement. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Self Improvement. Show all posts
Monday, January 03, 2011
Sunday, January 02, 2011
Keeps getting better....
Each year, of course I have resolutions -- as do most of us. And, I try really hard to stick to them - sometimes it works, and other times....well, not so much. But I think it's important to at least outline goals - and something personal to work towards, otherwise - there is no way to keep growing in life.
So, the following are my goals for the year 2011. Some, are rather superficial in the big scheme of things, but they're important for me; others are genuine improvements. So I'm just going to throw them all up in the air -- and we'll see what sticks!
1. More time for me. Whether it's reading a book (which I don't often do), going to a movie (which I never do!) or just taking a day to browse through the outlets (which I haven't done in over a year!) - I'm going to make the time -- even better, TAKE the time -- to do it. I deserve it, and truly - I'm self employed and can do it!
2. Run, Breathe, Salute. We all think about exercising the first of the year - but now is the time I actually have to try and get back in the swing of things again. Running, and definitely yoga. Now I can go back to going in the mornings and not have to feel guilty showing up at the store after 10; not that I had to feel guilty before, but I'm so flipping driven and responsible - and truth be told, I love my job. But I am going to get on a solid regiment to feel healthy and strong once again.
2a. Run a 5k - possibly a 10k.
3. Patience and better language. I am going to try really hard to be more patient at home - and try really hard to watch my words.
4. Better organization. Ah yes, this is one on my list every year - mostly because I always can stand for room to improve in this area in some aspect of my life, like laundry. I hate doing laundry, I'm not going to lie. So that's an area I could stand better organization on. I just bought myself a day planner so I'm better organized in scheduling; not that there's so much going on in life that I need one, but hey - it certainly doesn't hurt any.
5. Not be so compulsive about organization. Okay, so I can't breathe when the house isn't organized. It makes me feel suffocated when I see clutter in a drawer - especially if it's a drawer I've already organized; I am going to try to not be so frustrated when that happens because I live in a house with 3 other people who aren't the least bit organized. Or even tidy. Two of them are children, so I can let that slide - but the other one just acts like a child, and it drives me insane. I'm going to try to let that go.... I can't promise though.
And while there's probably more I can list - and there's definitely more I can improve upon, this is my first shot at the list.
What are you resolving to change this year?
So, the following are my goals for the year 2011. Some, are rather superficial in the big scheme of things, but they're important for me; others are genuine improvements. So I'm just going to throw them all up in the air -- and we'll see what sticks!
1. More time for me. Whether it's reading a book (which I don't often do), going to a movie (which I never do!) or just taking a day to browse through the outlets (which I haven't done in over a year!) - I'm going to make the time -- even better, TAKE the time -- to do it. I deserve it, and truly - I'm self employed and can do it!
2. Run, Breathe, Salute. We all think about exercising the first of the year - but now is the time I actually have to try and get back in the swing of things again. Running, and definitely yoga. Now I can go back to going in the mornings and not have to feel guilty showing up at the store after 10; not that I had to feel guilty before, but I'm so flipping driven and responsible - and truth be told, I love my job. But I am going to get on a solid regiment to feel healthy and strong once again.
2a. Run a 5k - possibly a 10k.
3. Patience and better language. I am going to try really hard to be more patient at home - and try really hard to watch my words.
4. Better organization. Ah yes, this is one on my list every year - mostly because I always can stand for room to improve in this area in some aspect of my life, like laundry. I hate doing laundry, I'm not going to lie. So that's an area I could stand better organization on. I just bought myself a day planner so I'm better organized in scheduling; not that there's so much going on in life that I need one, but hey - it certainly doesn't hurt any.
5. Not be so compulsive about organization. Okay, so I can't breathe when the house isn't organized. It makes me feel suffocated when I see clutter in a drawer - especially if it's a drawer I've already organized; I am going to try to not be so frustrated when that happens because I live in a house with 3 other people who aren't the least bit organized. Or even tidy. Two of them are children, so I can let that slide - but the other one just acts like a child, and it drives me insane. I'm going to try to let that go.... I can't promise though.
And while there's probably more I can list - and there's definitely more I can improve upon, this is my first shot at the list.
What are you resolving to change this year?
Tuesday, July 27, 2010
I care not so much what I am in the opinion of others as what I am in my own...
The only real failure in life is the failure to try.
We are all faced with a series of great opportunities brilliantly disguised as impossible situations.
If my mind can conceive it, and my heart can believe it, I know I can achieve it.
There is no swagger as danerous as over-confidence. Embrace humility.
Life is like a game of cards. Reliability is the ace, industry the king, politeness the queen, thrift the jack. Commonsense is playing to best advantage the cards you draw. And every day, as the game proceeds, you will find the ace, king, queen, jack in your hand and opportunity to use them.
Once you accept the fact that you’re not perfect, then you develop some confidence.
We are all faced with a series of great opportunities brilliantly disguised as impossible situations.
If my mind can conceive it, and my heart can believe it, I know I can achieve it.
There is no swagger as danerous as over-confidence. Embrace humility.
Life is like a game of cards. Reliability is the ace, industry the king, politeness the queen, thrift the jack. Commonsense is playing to best advantage the cards you draw. And every day, as the game proceeds, you will find the ace, king, queen, jack in your hand and opportunity to use them.
Once you accept the fact that you’re not perfect, then you develop some confidence.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
People are people so why should it be, you and I should get along so awfully...
Have you ever known anyone who really believes it's "all about them"?
Have you ever known people who were so insecure about themselves, they genuinely can't like anyone else?
Have you ever known people who don't like certain personality traits of their own, so they reflect them onto other people without any true rationale or basis for the accusation?
Jealousy. Resentment. Insecurity. Negativity.
All wasted emotions.
Who has time for it? And more importantly - ugh, the energy?!?!
Life is too short - and truly, if you can't be happy in your own skin then you can't be happy with anyone else.
I much prefer to subscribe to the Ghandi perspective: "Be the change you want to see in the world". I am not perfect, but I'm okay with not having to be either. And so long as I am a good person, then that's one step in the right direction. I rather like being a work in progress - there's so much to learn in life.
At the same time, I'm not easily influenced by others; I believe in who I am as a person, and so I don't need to be validated by someone else's approval; I'm usually pretty good about not judging others until they've given me a reason to make a decision about who they are as a person. I know that not everyone else is like that - and it can be a struggle sometimes.
Life isn't easy. We all won't always get along; and we all won't always like each other's points of views. But we all need to respect one another, when we're feeling good about ourselves -- and when we're having moments of insecurity.
We are in control of our own destiny - and there is no one else responsible for our own successeses or mistakes in life -- than ourselves.
Have you ever known people who were so insecure about themselves, they genuinely can't like anyone else?
Have you ever known people who don't like certain personality traits of their own, so they reflect them onto other people without any true rationale or basis for the accusation?
Jealousy. Resentment. Insecurity. Negativity.
All wasted emotions.
Who has time for it? And more importantly - ugh, the energy?!?!
Life is too short - and truly, if you can't be happy in your own skin then you can't be happy with anyone else.
I much prefer to subscribe to the Ghandi perspective: "Be the change you want to see in the world". I am not perfect, but I'm okay with not having to be either. And so long as I am a good person, then that's one step in the right direction. I rather like being a work in progress - there's so much to learn in life.
At the same time, I'm not easily influenced by others; I believe in who I am as a person, and so I don't need to be validated by someone else's approval; I'm usually pretty good about not judging others until they've given me a reason to make a decision about who they are as a person. I know that not everyone else is like that - and it can be a struggle sometimes.
Life isn't easy. We all won't always get along; and we all won't always like each other's points of views. But we all need to respect one another, when we're feeling good about ourselves -- and when we're having moments of insecurity.
We are in control of our own destiny - and there is no one else responsible for our own successeses or mistakes in life -- than ourselves.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Que Sera, Sera...whatever will be -- will be.
I wish I could take credit for the following items - but I can't. Though I've been known to paraphrase them from time to time, and always have long before this email came into my inbox. They're pretty much common sense, but sometimes - we don't all take the time to actually utilize our own common sensability; either because we choose not to, or don't take the time to.
Life is a garden. Bloom where you are planted.
And enjoy the following. (I'm bolding my personal favorites. Be aware, there may be many!)
Written By Regina Brett, 90 years old, author of The Plain Dealer, Cleveland, Ohio
"To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me. It is the most-requested column I've ever written. My odometer rolled over to 90 in August, so here is the column once more."
1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick.. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.
16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else. 20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.
21... Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.
22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.
24. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.
25. Frame every so-called disaster with these words ''In five years, will this matter?"...
26. Always choose life.
27. Forgive everyone everything.
28. What other people think of you is none of your business...
29. Time heals almost everything. Give time, time.
30. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
31. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
32. Believe in miracles.
33. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.
34. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
35. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.
36. Your children get only one childhood.
37. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
38. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
39. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.
40. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
41. The best is yet to come.
42. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
43. Yield.
44. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.
Life is a garden. Bloom where you are planted.
And enjoy the following. (I'm bolding my personal favorites. Be aware, there may be many!)
Written By Regina Brett, 90 years old, author of The Plain Dealer, Cleveland, Ohio
"To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught me. It is the most-requested column I've ever written. My odometer rolled over to 90 in August, so here is the column once more."
1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick.. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.
16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one is up to you and no one else. 20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.
21... Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.
22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.
24. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.
25. Frame every so-called disaster with these words ''In five years, will this matter?"...
26. Always choose life.
27. Forgive everyone everything.
28. What other people think of you is none of your business...
29. Time heals almost everything. Give time, time.
30. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
31. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
32. Believe in miracles.
33. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do.
34. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
35. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.
36. Your children get only one childhood.
37. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
38. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
39. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.
40. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
41. The best is yet to come.
42. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
43. Yield.
44. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Yoga is bodily gospel. ~Reaven Fields
Today is the 108 Sun Salutation Fundraiser for the Jimmy Fund.
It's an amazing practice -- three hours long -- with the presence and focus being on the cause.
Sun Salutations or Surya Namaskara is a dynamic asana sequence of 12 postures performed as one continuous flow. Sri K. Pattabhi Jois calls 108 sun salutations a yoga mala, after the garland of prayer beads. There are 108 beads on every strand. Each completed sequence becomes a bead of the mala; therefore, every mala calls for 108 sun salutations. Regardless of the meaning of 108 it is important to remember that a yoga mala is a form of meditation and like the prayer beads, each sequence should be practiced with sincerity, devotion and full attention.
(If you practice, then you'll appreciate that we do one full Surya Namaskara A and B to be one complete Sun Salutation.)
Why 108? Well....
• A Harshad number is 108
(harshad in sanskrit means
great joy)
• 108 energy lines join to
form the heart chakra
• With 54 letters in the
sanskrit alphabet each
has masculine and
feminine equals 108
• 1 stands for higher truth
0 for emptiness
8 for infinity
Whatever you're doing today, enjoy; but take a moment to step back and thinmk about those who might be struggling or suffering today - and send some positive energy and good thoughts their way.
Namaste....
It's an amazing practice -- three hours long -- with the presence and focus being on the cause.
Sun Salutations or Surya Namaskara is a dynamic asana sequence of 12 postures performed as one continuous flow. Sri K. Pattabhi Jois calls 108 sun salutations a yoga mala, after the garland of prayer beads. There are 108 beads on every strand. Each completed sequence becomes a bead of the mala; therefore, every mala calls for 108 sun salutations. Regardless of the meaning of 108 it is important to remember that a yoga mala is a form of meditation and like the prayer beads, each sequence should be practiced with sincerity, devotion and full attention.
(If you practice, then you'll appreciate that we do one full Surya Namaskara A and B to be one complete Sun Salutation.)
Why 108? Well....
• A Harshad number is 108
(harshad in sanskrit means
great joy)
• 108 energy lines join to
form the heart chakra
• With 54 letters in the
sanskrit alphabet each
has masculine and
feminine equals 108
• 1 stands for higher truth
0 for emptiness
8 for infinity
Whatever you're doing today, enjoy; but take a moment to step back and thinmk about those who might be struggling or suffering today - and send some positive energy and good thoughts their way.
Namaste....
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Lyrically speaking....or maybe not.
Sometimes we fall down and can’t get back up
We’re hiding behind skin that’s too tough
How come we don’t say I love you enough
Till it’s to late, it’s not too late
Our hearts are hungry for a food that won’t come
We could make a feast from these crumbs
And we’re all staring down the barrel of a gun
So if your life flashed before you
What would you wish you would’ve done
Yeah… gotta start
Lookin at the hand of the time we’ve been given here
This is all we got and we gotta start pickin it
Every second counts on a clock that’s tickin’
Gotta live like we’re dying
We only got
86 400 seconds in a day to
Turn it all around or throw it all away
We gotta tell ‘em that we love ‘em
While we got the chance to say
Gotta live like we’re dying
And if your plane fell out of the skies
Who would you call with your last goodbyes
Should be so careful who we live out our lives
So when we long for absolution
There’ll be no one on the line
Yeah… gotta start
Lookin at the hand of the time we’ve been given here
This is all we got and we gotta start pickin it
Every second counts on a clock that’s tickin’
Gotta live like we’re dying
We only got
86 400 seconds in a day to
Turn it all around or throw it all away
We gotta tell ‘em that we love ‘em
While we got the chance to say
Gotta live like we’re dying
We never know a good thing till it’s gone
You never see a crash until it’s head on
All those people right when we’re dead wrong
You never know a good thing till it’s gone
Gotta live....like we're dying.
We’re hiding behind skin that’s too tough
How come we don’t say I love you enough
Till it’s to late, it’s not too late
Our hearts are hungry for a food that won’t come
We could make a feast from these crumbs
And we’re all staring down the barrel of a gun
So if your life flashed before you
What would you wish you would’ve done
Yeah… gotta start
Lookin at the hand of the time we’ve been given here
This is all we got and we gotta start pickin it
Every second counts on a clock that’s tickin’
Gotta live like we’re dying
We only got
86 400 seconds in a day to
Turn it all around or throw it all away
We gotta tell ‘em that we love ‘em
While we got the chance to say
Gotta live like we’re dying
And if your plane fell out of the skies
Who would you call with your last goodbyes
Should be so careful who we live out our lives
So when we long for absolution
There’ll be no one on the line
Yeah… gotta start
Lookin at the hand of the time we’ve been given here
This is all we got and we gotta start pickin it
Every second counts on a clock that’s tickin’
Gotta live like we’re dying
We only got
86 400 seconds in a day to
Turn it all around or throw it all away
We gotta tell ‘em that we love ‘em
While we got the chance to say
Gotta live like we’re dying
We never know a good thing till it’s gone
You never see a crash until it’s head on
All those people right when we’re dead wrong
You never know a good thing till it’s gone
Gotta live....like we're dying.
Thursday, February 04, 2010
Lyrically speaking...
Well we dig our heels in
And wonder who's gonna win...
Who is gonna win it or wear it out
I change the lock on the door
Or learn how to take a little more
I can outrun all of the devils there
But never the doubt
Try not to throw all your money into 20/20 vision
For the world won't wait on politics or indecision...
And wonder who's gonna win...
Who is gonna win it or wear it out
I change the lock on the door
Or learn how to take a little more
I can outrun all of the devils there
But never the doubt
Try not to throw all your money into 20/20 vision
For the world won't wait on politics or indecision...
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Letters of the day....
1. Dear "Concerned Citizens", it's enough already.....I've started receiving "disapproving" letters at the store..... it's so wild. The city we opened in used to be dry, and there apparently is a large community of reformed alcoholics that live there. Well, for the last three weeks I've recieved letters from "concerned" members of the community that are almost all identical in style, format and verbiage. It's interesting because I wonder what they expect from writing them. Do they think that we'd suddenly stop selling alcohol? I'm sorry but I don't think that's going to happen. I have actually written back to each one so far; nicely, and politely of course - because I think it's important that they feel they're opinion is respected - but also in a way to kindly let them know that we are responsible business owners and that we are aren't new at this. I think it's a good thing because it makes them feel their issues are addressed -- and I feel better because I'm addressing it.
2. Dear Mariah Carey, I do believe that G and I are going to see you on Saturday! Very exciting... There are a few people that I think are worth paying crazy money to go sit front row-ish to see, and she is one of them. Of course, my girl Christina Aguilera is another....if only she would tour!
3. Dear Celebrities, what the flip are you thinking? So, I'm watching Celebrity Rehab and just blown away by it. I mean, I love this show - and it's not the first time I've seen it -- but truly, it's so disturbing to see people who had the world in the palm of their hands and just blew it..... ugh. I mean, it's one thing when it's a sad scenario to be a drug addict because maybe you had a horrible life and had no little or chances in life; but when you're a freaking celebrity?!? And you fall into drug addiction because you could....??? C'mon.
4. Dear Mr. President, you are such the eloquent speaker. However, I couldn't help but feel like calling you "President Santa Claus" during your speech. Money for everyone!!! Listen, I'm all about making life easier, but truly - let's be realistic about it. I did however, enjoy portions of it - your charisma is fabulous -- but sometimes the beauty of how you say things overshadows what you're actually saying. It's sort of like the art of telling someone to go to hell in such a way that they actually thank you - and then ask for the directions.
5. Dear Friends, Family & Anyone who knows me, I am not a perfect person. I've never professed to be -- I am and will forever be a work in progress. And I'm proud to say that. I am who I am, and though I know that I always have things about me I can work on - we still shouldn't lose the core of who we are. I've tried very hard over the years to choose my battles, and that has a lot to do with realizing the things I can and can not change. This includes how other people live their lives. Embracing that makes life so much easier.
2. Dear Mariah Carey, I do believe that G and I are going to see you on Saturday! Very exciting... There are a few people that I think are worth paying crazy money to go sit front row-ish to see, and she is one of them. Of course, my girl Christina Aguilera is another....if only she would tour!
3. Dear Celebrities, what the flip are you thinking? So, I'm watching Celebrity Rehab and just blown away by it. I mean, I love this show - and it's not the first time I've seen it -- but truly, it's so disturbing to see people who had the world in the palm of their hands and just blew it..... ugh. I mean, it's one thing when it's a sad scenario to be a drug addict because maybe you had a horrible life and had no little or chances in life; but when you're a freaking celebrity?!? And you fall into drug addiction because you could....??? C'mon.
4. Dear Mr. President, you are such the eloquent speaker. However, I couldn't help but feel like calling you "President Santa Claus" during your speech. Money for everyone!!! Listen, I'm all about making life easier, but truly - let's be realistic about it. I did however, enjoy portions of it - your charisma is fabulous -- but sometimes the beauty of how you say things overshadows what you're actually saying. It's sort of like the art of telling someone to go to hell in such a way that they actually thank you - and then ask for the directions.
5. Dear Friends, Family & Anyone who knows me, I am not a perfect person. I've never professed to be -- I am and will forever be a work in progress. And I'm proud to say that. I am who I am, and though I know that I always have things about me I can work on - we still shouldn't lose the core of who we are. I've tried very hard over the years to choose my battles, and that has a lot to do with realizing the things I can and can not change. This includes how other people live their lives. Embracing that makes life so much easier.
Friday, January 08, 2010
Things I'm looking forward to in the very near future....
A massage. Hot power yoga (Namaste). Shopping for fun things, like mascara and lip gloss and boots. Going to a grown up movie. Having time to catch lunch with some of my friends of whom I miss dearly. Going to a Red Sox game. Running a 5k. Going to NYC and seeing a play.
What are you looking forward to?
What are you looking forward to?
Friday, January 01, 2010
Feeling ambitious -- setting goals.
The beginning of the year is when I really try to get organized. Sometimes, especially in a year such as the one that just left -- when life is very hectic towards the end, it's hard to clean house so to speak, and reorganize. I can't function when things aren't organized; and the funny thing is that I'm not nearly as organized as I need to be/want to be but I've learned that sometimes you just have to step back. It's okay.... though I still cringe when the "junk drawer" in the kitchen is a disaster just a day after I've organized it. My cabinets aren't nearly as organized as I want them to be -- I have the overwhelming want to have my house look like something out of "Real Simple". But the reality of it is that -- well, it can't. I have two children who are anything but organized, a husband who has no concept of tidiness though he's exceptionally organized -- and we actually live in this house. We use it, eat/play/live in it -- it's not staged for a magazine.
These are the things I grapple with.
Anyway, so I've given a little thought to my resolutions for this year; they're always very manageable, attainable goals. I've always felt it unrealistic to set exorbitant goals on things that may not get done in a probable manner. So I set a few, short and realistic goals and if I keep them (which I typically do....sometimes) then that's great. If not -- well, they're not earthshattering so that's okay as well.
So I now present to you this girl's list of resolutions for 2010:
1. Go to the doctor. Yes, I'm overdue for a general physical and with the recent turn of events with my mother and the big C -- her prognosis while better than the day before Christmas Eve is still not as good as we'd hoped it would be; and there's always the possibility for genetic and hereditary passing of it so...for my own piece of mind, it's probably best to be proactive on the medical curve.
2. Back to yoga and running. That needs no explanation.
3. Get back to reading. G got for Christmas a book that's piquing my interest and so I think I'm going to start it. It's Tim Donaghy's Blowing the Whistle. I don't know what I'll read after that one, but at least I'm interested in reading it. I'd even like to get back into a book club if I can find the time.
That might be it -- for now anyway. I'm always working on improving myself -- and I will forever be a work in progress. But for now, in the short term - these are the goals I'm setting for myself for this year, and I think I should be able to keep them.
What are your goals for this upcoming year?
These are the things I grapple with.
Anyway, so I've given a little thought to my resolutions for this year; they're always very manageable, attainable goals. I've always felt it unrealistic to set exorbitant goals on things that may not get done in a probable manner. So I set a few, short and realistic goals and if I keep them (which I typically do....sometimes) then that's great. If not -- well, they're not earthshattering so that's okay as well.
So I now present to you this girl's list of resolutions for 2010:
1. Go to the doctor. Yes, I'm overdue for a general physical and with the recent turn of events with my mother and the big C -- her prognosis while better than the day before Christmas Eve is still not as good as we'd hoped it would be; and there's always the possibility for genetic and hereditary passing of it so...for my own piece of mind, it's probably best to be proactive on the medical curve.
2. Back to yoga and running. That needs no explanation.
3. Get back to reading. G got for Christmas a book that's piquing my interest and so I think I'm going to start it. It's Tim Donaghy's Blowing the Whistle. I don't know what I'll read after that one, but at least I'm interested in reading it. I'd even like to get back into a book club if I can find the time.
That might be it -- for now anyway. I'm always working on improving myself -- and I will forever be a work in progress. But for now, in the short term - these are the goals I'm setting for myself for this year, and I think I should be able to keep them.
What are your goals for this upcoming year?
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Charlie Brown: We've got ANOTHER holiday to worry about. It seems Thanksgiving Day is upon us.
(Poor Charlie Brown. Always feeling on the downside of up...)
I'm thankful that I'm not cooking on Thanksgiving. Though truthfully, I enjoy cooking so much that despite the fact that I'm going to be working morning, noon and night tomorrow -- part of me still wishes I was making dinner.
That being said, I don't know that I'll get to post prior to the big day; so I'm presenting my list of what I'm thankful for at the present. Outside of the first one -- they're in no particular order of meaning.
1. Always thankful for the health of my family and friends. That above all means more than anything else.
2. For the fact that despite this economy, business is doing well. Opening a new business is always such a gamble, and so I'm thankful that we're able to pay the bills. Leaving my job was a big decision, and I'm very pleased that right now anyway -- it was a risk worth taking.
3. My children are constant souces of inspiration - and frustration. I mean that in the best possible way, because I'm thankful that they challenge me. In some ways, it allows me to think out of the box in my parenting, and enables me to continually try to be a better parent. While it may be a dictatorship in my house, I've learned that there is more than one way to skin (insert you favorite hunting creature HERE.) And for that, I'm very, very thankful.
4. I'm thankful that my mother's health seems to be settled down. That one's sort of separate from the first one. It wasn't a good year.
5. I've got a fantastic support system of friends. For that, I'm beyond thankful.
6. I'm thankful for my husband and children. So many people go through this life alone; and that's okay - sometimes that's out of a person's control; but I'm thankful that I have a family to enjoy life with.
7. I'm thankful that Jason Varitek will once again wear a Red Sox uniform. (C'mon...you know I had to squeeze a Jason reference in somewhere!!)
I hope that however you celebrate Thanksgiving - and with whomever - your day is filled with laughter, friendship and love.
I'm thankful that I'm not cooking on Thanksgiving. Though truthfully, I enjoy cooking so much that despite the fact that I'm going to be working morning, noon and night tomorrow -- part of me still wishes I was making dinner.
That being said, I don't know that I'll get to post prior to the big day; so I'm presenting my list of what I'm thankful for at the present. Outside of the first one -- they're in no particular order of meaning.
1. Always thankful for the health of my family and friends. That above all means more than anything else.
2. For the fact that despite this economy, business is doing well. Opening a new business is always such a gamble, and so I'm thankful that we're able to pay the bills. Leaving my job was a big decision, and I'm very pleased that right now anyway -- it was a risk worth taking.
3. My children are constant souces of inspiration - and frustration. I mean that in the best possible way, because I'm thankful that they challenge me. In some ways, it allows me to think out of the box in my parenting, and enables me to continually try to be a better parent. While it may be a dictatorship in my house, I've learned that there is more than one way to skin (insert you favorite hunting creature HERE.) And for that, I'm very, very thankful.
4. I'm thankful that my mother's health seems to be settled down. That one's sort of separate from the first one. It wasn't a good year.
5. I've got a fantastic support system of friends. For that, I'm beyond thankful.
6. I'm thankful for my husband and children. So many people go through this life alone; and that's okay - sometimes that's out of a person's control; but I'm thankful that I have a family to enjoy life with.
7. I'm thankful that Jason Varitek will once again wear a Red Sox uniform. (C'mon...you know I had to squeeze a Jason reference in somewhere!!)
I hope that however you celebrate Thanksgiving - and with whomever - your day is filled with laughter, friendship and love.
Monday, November 09, 2009
Whistle while you work....
Can I just tell you -- even when I know I have a long day ahead of me (though, I just found out that tomorrow is not nearly the day I envisioned it to be...) I don't mind.
Customer service is something I love..... and to have the immediate gratification of seeing people's faces light up when they walk in the door, is invalueable. To be able to give advice and suggestions - and have people come back and say they loved what I suggested -- is beyond exciting.
And they physical labor of it isn't so terrible either; it's like going to the gym without actually having the time to do so. Is the result the same? No, of couse not - but it sure beats sitting down all day.
I have job satisfaction now.
And I love that.
Customer service is something I love..... and to have the immediate gratification of seeing people's faces light up when they walk in the door, is invalueable. To be able to give advice and suggestions - and have people come back and say they loved what I suggested -- is beyond exciting.
And they physical labor of it isn't so terrible either; it's like going to the gym without actually having the time to do so. Is the result the same? No, of couse not - but it sure beats sitting down all day.
I have job satisfaction now.
And I love that.
Wednesday, November 04, 2009
It takes 32 muscles to frown, and 27 muscles to smile....
A positive attitude may not solve all your problems, but it will annoy enough people to make it worth the effort. ~Herm Albright, quoted in Reader's Digest, June 1995
Attitudes are contagious. Are yours worth catching? ~Dennis and Wendy Mannering
Wherever you go, no matter what the weather, always bring your own sunshine. ~Anthony J. D'Angelo, The College Blue Book
If you don't get everything you want, think of the things you don't get that you don't want. ~Oscar Wilde
I had the blues because I had no shoes until upon the street, I met a man who had no feet. ~Ancient Persian Saying
If you don't think every day is a good day, just try missing one. ~Cavett Robert
Don't henpeck everyone all the time. Not everyone may be as good at what you do, but you may not be as good at what everyone else does either. Life is a balance and patience, tolerance and understanding are the keys to a successful life. -- Rebecca, I'm just a Girl
Attitudes are contagious. Are yours worth catching? ~Dennis and Wendy Mannering
Wherever you go, no matter what the weather, always bring your own sunshine. ~Anthony J. D'Angelo, The College Blue Book
If you don't get everything you want, think of the things you don't get that you don't want. ~Oscar Wilde
I had the blues because I had no shoes until upon the street, I met a man who had no feet. ~Ancient Persian Saying
If you don't think every day is a good day, just try missing one. ~Cavett Robert
Don't henpeck everyone all the time. Not everyone may be as good at what you do, but you may not be as good at what everyone else does either. Life is a balance and patience, tolerance and understanding are the keys to a successful life. -- Rebecca, I'm just a Girl
Saturday, October 24, 2009
Cream coloured ponies and crisp apple strudel, Door bells and sleigh bells and schnitzel with noodles...
Key Lime Tea Cookies. "To Die For" dips - any variety. A very good and emollient hand cream, just lightly scented. Really good chinese food, like the kind I grew up on. Cinnamon Toast scented candles. A fabulously delicious Zinfandel, say "Sin Zin". The feeling of my floors when they've just been washed. The smell of my daughter's hair after a day outdoors. Seeing, touching, feeling when I shop. A perfectly made Spicy Tuna roll. Feeling proud and accomplished. Anything pumpkin. A dinner made by anyone else but me - for me. Watching home videos of my children. Spending time with my friends who are working with me. Missing yoga and running, but knowing I'll get back to it. A strong, deep tissue massage. Living life, laughing and loving every moment of it -- the good, the bad and everything in between.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
Every day is another day to have a good day....
And unfortunately, while the day before yesterday -- or yesterday -- wasn't one of them -- today is a far better day.
I got some of my Italian specialty items and cured meats and panini rolls -- my pastas and such. As well as the fun cheese mixes, and spreads/salsas and other fabulous goods. What was even better than that - was the reaction I got from two people today when I loaded the frozen pasta. I have pumpkin ravioli which they both expressed that a local specialty shop sells for more than double mine. Love to hear that kind of thing.
Friday, the cheese is coming!! I'm beside myself over that. And of course, the fresh olives and stuffed cherry peppers that I can't wait to display. How to keep myself from snacking all the time is the issue....
Displaying everything is going to be the most challenging aspect - and the most argued thus far -- but it will all come together beautifully. I'm sure of it. My mother in law is an amazingly talented designer and so for her to stage the store with me and some of the people who are helping out and retail oriented -- is really going to be fun.
But in the meantime, onwards and upwards and hopefully in very short order - this stressful time will be behind me. It didn't have to be so stressful, and I wish it wasn't....but hey - it is, what it is.
Time to move on.....
I got some of my Italian specialty items and cured meats and panini rolls -- my pastas and such. As well as the fun cheese mixes, and spreads/salsas and other fabulous goods. What was even better than that - was the reaction I got from two people today when I loaded the frozen pasta. I have pumpkin ravioli which they both expressed that a local specialty shop sells for more than double mine. Love to hear that kind of thing.
Friday, the cheese is coming!! I'm beside myself over that. And of course, the fresh olives and stuffed cherry peppers that I can't wait to display. How to keep myself from snacking all the time is the issue....
Displaying everything is going to be the most challenging aspect - and the most argued thus far -- but it will all come together beautifully. I'm sure of it. My mother in law is an amazingly talented designer and so for her to stage the store with me and some of the people who are helping out and retail oriented -- is really going to be fun.
But in the meantime, onwards and upwards and hopefully in very short order - this stressful time will be behind me. It didn't have to be so stressful, and I wish it wasn't....but hey - it is, what it is.
Time to move on.....
Wednesday, July 22, 2009
Words and thoughts for Wednesday.....
1. I love, love, love Giada & Ina. I know I've said this many times before, but seriously - everything that they make just is so simple and yet so decadent and seemingly delicious. I wish I had the creativity to come up with the menus and recipes that they do, but I suppose that is what makes them "chefs" and myself - not. I do try though. As a matter of fact, I saw some old friends from elementary and high school today at a wake I attended, and my girlfriend said that she loved seeing my dinner ideas that I would post online; I thanked her, but told her sometimes I think they probably sound better than they taste. I am my own harshest critic, for sure. (Although I am thinking of coming up with a recipe blog, or maybe a recipe Twitter site.)
2. Speaking of said friends and the wake.... I am not typically the type of person to ask for help with anything. I don't know why; I'd be the first person to help anyone with anything - but yet I stifle myself on the smallest things. Anyway, one of the girls is an oncology nurse and so my aforementioned girlfriend insisted I ask her questions about my Mom. I'm glad that she did though, because she's more than willing to help out and get information - even a doctor's appointment if need be -- and I mentioned it to my mother who surprised me and said she'd take that offer up. So, I feel a little better now knowing that she might actually get a second opinion from someplace other than the Sunshine State. (No offense, my Floridian friends but truly Boston is where it's at for medicine - though as Nichole pointed out, there are other areas as well, but I'm a bit biased.)
3. I definitely need to go back to running, yoga and acupuncture. I'm feeling a bit stressed with the buildout, though I think I've gotten the bulk of the running around done and now I can focus on other things. But truly, not running or going to yoga sort of makes me feel blah. The endorphins from exercise are invalueable, never mind the fact that it makes me feel better overall. Yoga is as I always say -- a workout, and therapy -- all in one. So, I see my studio has added morning classes so I think next week I'm definitely capitalizing on those. And yes, I will be running next week as well. I don't care if I just run the lake first thing in the a.m. -- I am all set with not doing for me. The acupuncture, well - I think I'm just in need of an adjustment. The weather spiked a bit today and I think it sent me into borderline migraine territory; I've warded it off, but looking back it's been 7 months since my last treatment. It seems that I can go 6 months at a time before needing a tweaking - and when you don't have headaches any longer after a while even a minor one seems major because you aren't used to them anymore. So, it's a good thing not having headaches - but then also, a not so good thing.
4. Life is like a box of chocolates. Well if that wasn't a true statement from a fictional character, then I don't know what is! We never know what's in store, and in a blink of an eye - life can change. So laugh loudly, love fiercely, and live life to the fullest. Make lemonade from life's lemons, because you can always find the upside of down if you look. Embrace the unexpected because sometimes - the greatest surprises can be found in the least likely of places.
2. Speaking of said friends and the wake.... I am not typically the type of person to ask for help with anything. I don't know why; I'd be the first person to help anyone with anything - but yet I stifle myself on the smallest things. Anyway, one of the girls is an oncology nurse and so my aforementioned girlfriend insisted I ask her questions about my Mom. I'm glad that she did though, because she's more than willing to help out and get information - even a doctor's appointment if need be -- and I mentioned it to my mother who surprised me and said she'd take that offer up. So, I feel a little better now knowing that she might actually get a second opinion from someplace other than the Sunshine State. (No offense, my Floridian friends but truly Boston is where it's at for medicine - though as Nichole pointed out, there are other areas as well, but I'm a bit biased.)
3. I definitely need to go back to running, yoga and acupuncture. I'm feeling a bit stressed with the buildout, though I think I've gotten the bulk of the running around done and now I can focus on other things. But truly, not running or going to yoga sort of makes me feel blah. The endorphins from exercise are invalueable, never mind the fact that it makes me feel better overall. Yoga is as I always say -- a workout, and therapy -- all in one. So, I see my studio has added morning classes so I think next week I'm definitely capitalizing on those. And yes, I will be running next week as well. I don't care if I just run the lake first thing in the a.m. -- I am all set with not doing for me. The acupuncture, well - I think I'm just in need of an adjustment. The weather spiked a bit today and I think it sent me into borderline migraine territory; I've warded it off, but looking back it's been 7 months since my last treatment. It seems that I can go 6 months at a time before needing a tweaking - and when you don't have headaches any longer after a while even a minor one seems major because you aren't used to them anymore. So, it's a good thing not having headaches - but then also, a not so good thing.
4. Life is like a box of chocolates. Well if that wasn't a true statement from a fictional character, then I don't know what is! We never know what's in store, and in a blink of an eye - life can change. So laugh loudly, love fiercely, and live life to the fullest. Make lemonade from life's lemons, because you can always find the upside of down if you look. Embrace the unexpected because sometimes - the greatest surprises can be found in the least likely of places.
Wednesday, March 04, 2009
Wednesday's potpourri...
1. I am back to the yoga mat today. After many months of being inactive and void of any type of physical activity, I am going to yoga today. I am beyond excited. Next week, I'll also do another week of my vegan detox to jump start my metabolism because while I can't run just yet - doing yoga is absolutely going to get me back into the swing of things, as well as strengthen me up so that running will be a possibility sooner - rather than later. At Whole Foods this afternoon to celebrate - I bought myself some Metromint Peppermint water (my very favorite!) -- and I caved (literally!) and indulged in a good chunk of cave aged Gruyere. (See, pun clearly intended.) I tasted a small sliver at the cheese counter and loved it. So while I roast my veggies & rice for dinner tonight (no, I'm not detoxing today just going to eat lighter tonight. Of course, the half of a chocolate chip cookie I just ate doesn't qualify....) I will indulge in this amazing cheese. Ommmm...yummmm.
2. I am still riveted to the Caylee Anthony case. I'm not exactly sure why the state isn't going forward with the death penalty for Casey Anthony; the only explanation I can come up with is that there would be a higher chance of conviction without the prospect of death; she's an attractive young girl and possibly they're thinking that people would be more forgiving of her based upon outward appearances, and it's reprehensible to think that a mother would do this to a child. (Let's be honest, people are more forgiving to attractive people than to those who aren't so easy on the eyes...that's partly why celebrities get away with such poor behaviour. But I digress....)It's inexcusable to me that she has shown little to no remorse over this; even Susan Smith who to me was previously one of the most heinous criminals in a crime of this kind -- showed emotion, remorse and regret. Hyperventilation, if truly her reaction - equals fear. It does not equate to grief.
3. I can't believe how quickly my kids are growing up. This week I have to register my daughter for kindergarten. She's going to be 5 - my son is going to be 8. Where does the time go? The days of my being the center of their universes....are slowly going to leave me. Those are the times that I'm not looking forward to, at all. Well, let me rephrase that; they'll never leave me....I just won't be the most important part of their lives. They'll have their friends, and other interests. Which is normal, and natural....and what we want for them to be -- happy and well rounded and adjusted. That doesn't mean I can't feel a little sad about it....
4. Stimulus plan, shimulus scam....My latest effort in the business startup is still moving right along, which is a good thing. A great thing, actually! I just wonder how President Santa Claus plans on helping good people, with excellent credit with their small businesses? Because I haven't heard much about that in the "stimulus" plan.
Just sayin'....
2. I am still riveted to the Caylee Anthony case. I'm not exactly sure why the state isn't going forward with the death penalty for Casey Anthony; the only explanation I can come up with is that there would be a higher chance of conviction without the prospect of death; she's an attractive young girl and possibly they're thinking that people would be more forgiving of her based upon outward appearances, and it's reprehensible to think that a mother would do this to a child. (Let's be honest, people are more forgiving to attractive people than to those who aren't so easy on the eyes...that's partly why celebrities get away with such poor behaviour. But I digress....)It's inexcusable to me that she has shown little to no remorse over this; even Susan Smith who to me was previously one of the most heinous criminals in a crime of this kind -- showed emotion, remorse and regret. Hyperventilation, if truly her reaction - equals fear. It does not equate to grief.
3. I can't believe how quickly my kids are growing up. This week I have to register my daughter for kindergarten. She's going to be 5 - my son is going to be 8. Where does the time go? The days of my being the center of their universes....are slowly going to leave me. Those are the times that I'm not looking forward to, at all. Well, let me rephrase that; they'll never leave me....I just won't be the most important part of their lives. They'll have their friends, and other interests. Which is normal, and natural....and what we want for them to be -- happy and well rounded and adjusted. That doesn't mean I can't feel a little sad about it....
4. Stimulus plan, shimulus scam....My latest effort in the business startup is still moving right along, which is a good thing. A great thing, actually! I just wonder how President Santa Claus plans on helping good people, with excellent credit with their small businesses? Because I haven't heard much about that in the "stimulus" plan.
Just sayin'....
Thursday, January 08, 2009
Namaste....
Wisdom tells me I am nothing.
Love tells me I am everything.
And between the two, my life flows.....
If fifty million people say a foolish thing,
It is still a foolish thing.
Surrendering does not involve preparing for a soft landing.
It means landing on hard, ordinary ground on rocky, wild countryside.
Once we open ourselves, then we land on what is.
Whatever you do may seem insignificant, but it is most important that you do it.
To build character, do something for no other reason than it's difficulty.
Stop seeking....where is there to go?
Everything you seek is already inside you.
Love tells me I am everything.
And between the two, my life flows.....
If fifty million people say a foolish thing,
It is still a foolish thing.
Surrendering does not involve preparing for a soft landing.
It means landing on hard, ordinary ground on rocky, wild countryside.
Once we open ourselves, then we land on what is.
Whatever you do may seem insignificant, but it is most important that you do it.
To build character, do something for no other reason than it's difficulty.
Stop seeking....where is there to go?
Everything you seek is already inside you.
Monday, January 05, 2009
She's off and running.....
I'm starting my re-energizing detox today. It's not a drastic, or terribly restrictive one; just all the fruits, vegetables, and clear soups that I want during the day, and then at night I add brown rice to the mix. It's fabulous because you lose all that extra salt and water weight that brings you down, and I don't feel as if I'm being restricted by limiting my food intake or having to only drink liquids. In my opinion, those strict detoxification plans are just as much of an extreme diet as Atkins or anything else. They just trick your body, which isn't really what you want to do. The plan I'm following is for 5 days only, and it really is quite good. I've done it a few times, and not only do you feel better, but your metabolism is given a jump start. Think of it as going Vegan, and Caffeine/ Sugar free for 5 days.
I think because I'm hampered so much by my knee, my energy level is down. In turn, I'm far less motivated to do things in general. I'm not exercising at all, which is making me really sluggish -- and I'm finding that it's harder to get up in the morning, which rather irritates me. But that will all change today!
I am also planning on rearranging my bedroom today. I've got an idea of how I want it to be -- complete with losing the big ol' armoire that's in our room and instead, hanging a flat screen television to free up space and make the room more open and flowing. I know I'm crazy to do it with the above mentioned knee issue, but hey - a girl's got to do what a girl's got to do. I am also planning a trip to pick out a new comforter set which we really need. I'm so ridiculously picky though -- it's a painful process for me to commit. I will do it though....
This week, there will be brainstorming going on about the rooms for each of the kids -- I don't know that there's much that can happen for Princess Petunia's room, it's rather small - but we'll see what we can come up with. I think with a little creativity and thinking "out of the box" miracles can happen! My son's room should be easier -- his room is much larger.
And finally....I will get my lazy butt downstairs into my gym, where I will lift once again. I will embrace the burn of crunches which I should be able to do some form of, given my lack of being able to completely bend or straighten my leg - but I will find a way.
It's Monday. It's the new year....and I am ready to take on the world once again.
I think because I'm hampered so much by my knee, my energy level is down. In turn, I'm far less motivated to do things in general. I'm not exercising at all, which is making me really sluggish -- and I'm finding that it's harder to get up in the morning, which rather irritates me. But that will all change today!
I am also planning on rearranging my bedroom today. I've got an idea of how I want it to be -- complete with losing the big ol' armoire that's in our room and instead, hanging a flat screen television to free up space and make the room more open and flowing. I know I'm crazy to do it with the above mentioned knee issue, but hey - a girl's got to do what a girl's got to do. I am also planning a trip to pick out a new comforter set which we really need. I'm so ridiculously picky though -- it's a painful process for me to commit. I will do it though....
This week, there will be brainstorming going on about the rooms for each of the kids -- I don't know that there's much that can happen for Princess Petunia's room, it's rather small - but we'll see what we can come up with. I think with a little creativity and thinking "out of the box" miracles can happen! My son's room should be easier -- his room is much larger.
And finally....I will get my lazy butt downstairs into my gym, where I will lift once again. I will embrace the burn of crunches which I should be able to do some form of, given my lack of being able to completely bend or straighten my leg - but I will find a way.
It's Monday. It's the new year....and I am ready to take on the world once again.
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