Happy Thursday all. BTW, we are pretending there's no snow coming tomorrow night, k?
We have a little challenge for you...
With only 20 days until Spring we want to offer you entree into a special challenge for those who read the blog (and we will announce this in class...to read the blog and check it out that is!)...
We'd like to set up a 12 week "Chelmsford Biggest Loser" type challenge:
1. You come to class at least 3x per week for the 12 weeks (starting the week of March 10)
2. We measure you (in private) at the beginning of the Challenge (anytime the first week of the Challenge and see A for the measuring please) and then mid-Challenge and again at the end of 12 weeks (We'll measure bustline, waist and hips)
3. We give you a food journal and you KEEP to that journal for all 12 weeks (reporting everything you eat). If you wish, we'll review your eating with you weekly (or you can keep it to yourself and review it alone) and help you any way we can
4. Try 1 class format you don't normally attend (if you never come to Body Sculpt, Circuit or Express) at least 1x during the 12 week period
If we have a few folks interested, we will keep a chart up (no names, simply the last 4 digits of your home phone number to identify you) of the progress.
Whomever sees the best result (in inches lost overall) will win a Polar Heart Rate monitor! (In pink!)
So, if you're reading this and want to participate, please email A or leave a comment here.
Let's work together to challenge ourselves, have fun, learn some new stuff and see some great results!
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Another day, another health fair!
Today-grey and looks like it might rain or snow. Great. NOT.
We had a booth at the Middlesex Comm. College health/wellness fair today and it was a lot of fun! There's great energy on any college campus and Middlesex is no exception. JFenn came with me and we sat there and welcomed folks, handed out our 100 calorie packs (with a free class coupon attached of course) and had fun people watching! We had the current DVD running so folks could see what we do and our new 'standing banner' was up making us look just about the most professional in the room!
We had a lot of traffic at our booth and gave away a lot of coupons and schedules. Here's hoping some folks come on over! This is the 2nd health fair we've done where we were asked to be the only fitness representation...which is great! We look forward to going back next year!
It's also potluck night at the Center so we are hoping for a nice, big turnout and lots of yummy food!
You may ask yourself-why are you having a potluck at a fitness center? Good question!
When we moved here to our larger, more palatial (ha) space I wanted to do something with the evening classes. The AM folks go out for coffee but we didn't have anything social 'to do' at the time. So, I thought "Why not ask folks to bring food for after class and we sit around and laugh and eat together after a great workout?" That first one, I didn't know who'd show up-it was packed!
Now, we get between 10-30 people (depending upon the month of the year) and so many folks bring us tasty food-it's so great! DF brings those great chicken bites, DC brings in chinese (a little is ok!) and MW always brings a tasty treat. We provide the pizza and paper products as a base and it goes from there!
So, if you're around tonight after our 6:30pm class, stop by the J and partake of some laughs and great food! You might meet some new friends and go away with a full tummy and a full heart!
We had a booth at the Middlesex Comm. College health/wellness fair today and it was a lot of fun! There's great energy on any college campus and Middlesex is no exception. JFenn came with me and we sat there and welcomed folks, handed out our 100 calorie packs (with a free class coupon attached of course) and had fun people watching! We had the current DVD running so folks could see what we do and our new 'standing banner' was up making us look just about the most professional in the room!
We had a lot of traffic at our booth and gave away a lot of coupons and schedules. Here's hoping some folks come on over! This is the 2nd health fair we've done where we were asked to be the only fitness representation...which is great! We look forward to going back next year!
It's also potluck night at the Center so we are hoping for a nice, big turnout and lots of yummy food!
You may ask yourself-why are you having a potluck at a fitness center? Good question!
When we moved here to our larger, more palatial (ha) space I wanted to do something with the evening classes. The AM folks go out for coffee but we didn't have anything social 'to do' at the time. So, I thought "Why not ask folks to bring food for after class and we sit around and laugh and eat together after a great workout?" That first one, I didn't know who'd show up-it was packed!
Now, we get between 10-30 people (depending upon the month of the year) and so many folks bring us tasty food-it's so great! DF brings those great chicken bites, DC brings in chinese (a little is ok!) and MW always brings a tasty treat. We provide the pizza and paper products as a base and it goes from there!
So, if you're around tonight after our 6:30pm class, stop by the J and partake of some laughs and great food! You might meet some new friends and go away with a full tummy and a full heart!
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Tuesday Tidbits!
Welcome to our new feature...
Tuesday Tidbits!
On Tuesdays, we'll chat about the best snacks, some recipes and little ways to stay on track! (And what to do when you fall off track!)
Today...
Some of the best snacks under 100 calories!
-Of course...the famous '100 calorie packs' (available at BJ's Wholesale club in a variety box!)
-Jello fat free pudding snacks (these can be yummy thrown in your lunch bag or after dinner!)
-1 c. strawberries with cool whip (I actually make a 'trifle' dessert using fat free cool whip, strawberries and low fat pound cake in the summer and it rocks!)
-1 apple (you could dip this in caramel dip for a sweet lowfat treat!)
-Breyer's Double Churn 100 calorie cups! (we love a snack that is already portioned!)
-100 calorie Fudgesicles! (WHAT?? AWESOME)
-Chocolate Vitatops and VitaBrownies!
-Quaker chocolately drizzle mini delights
These are just a few ideas because snacking, let's face it, is an American tradition! And, remember, the body is like a furnace...to keep that metabolism going you must 'stoke' the fire and eating small meals, throughout the day, works for many people. Just be careful...low fat does NOT mean low calorie and keeping that food journal will help you eat healthfully throughout the day and not too much!
Good luck and see you in class!
Tuesday Tidbits!
On Tuesdays, we'll chat about the best snacks, some recipes and little ways to stay on track! (And what to do when you fall off track!)
Today...
Some of the best snacks under 100 calories!
-Of course...the famous '100 calorie packs' (available at BJ's Wholesale club in a variety box!)
-Jello fat free pudding snacks (these can be yummy thrown in your lunch bag or after dinner!)
-1 c. strawberries with cool whip (I actually make a 'trifle' dessert using fat free cool whip, strawberries and low fat pound cake in the summer and it rocks!)
-1 apple (you could dip this in caramel dip for a sweet lowfat treat!)
-Breyer's Double Churn 100 calorie cups! (we love a snack that is already portioned!)
-100 calorie Fudgesicles! (WHAT?? AWESOME)
-Chocolate Vitatops and VitaBrownies!
-Quaker chocolately drizzle mini delights
These are just a few ideas because snacking, let's face it, is an American tradition! And, remember, the body is like a furnace...to keep that metabolism going you must 'stoke' the fire and eating small meals, throughout the day, works for many people. Just be careful...low fat does NOT mean low calorie and keeping that food journal will help you eat healthfully throughout the day and not too much!
Good luck and see you in class!
Monday, February 25, 2008
If you won the lottery wouldn't you be excited?
I, sadly, did not win MegaMillions last Friday. I really only play when there's a huge jackpot and, frankly, I play so I can simply dream of all the wonderful things I could do with, say, $300 million dollars! It's fun to think about!
Anyway...this morning on the Today Show, Meredith interviewed the GA couple who did win
MegaMillions last week. They were a sweet, older couple who have been struggling financially and who still work very hard at their jobs. (The husband is/was an iron worker.) I certainly do not begrudge these folks. They are hard working people who have struggled and, I'm sure, can use this money to live a better life.
However...
If you saw this interview today you might ask yourself-"Could you be a little LESS EXCITED to win all that money?"
These 2 were, in a word, flat. The wife only cracked a smile when her husband was asked, "What do you want to buy with the money?", and he said, "She wants a new Lexus." and she was ADAMANT (and finally awake apparently) enough to tell him a MERCEDES. The husband...never smiled once. If I'd had the sound off on the TV I would have thought they were being interviewed because their son-in-law had hacked up their daughter. Seriously.
Look, I know they're from a small town and aren't used to all this 'glitz' and glamour stuff but people...YOU WON OVER $100 million, show some enthusiasm. A little. Smile, laugh, be happy...anything!
Now, if you won the lottery how would *you* react during your Today show interview?
Giddy?
Thrilled?
Over the moon?
or,
Dejected?
Quiet?
Morose?
I choose the former-I could list you 20 things to buy THAT DAY. I could list you 20 PEOPLE I'd help that day. (After I visited the financial advisor and lawyer-that's a shout out to Mr. P&P by the way...he'd be at those offices, I'd be at THE MALL!)
HA!
See you in class!
Anyway...this morning on the Today Show, Meredith interviewed the GA couple who did win
MegaMillions last week. They were a sweet, older couple who have been struggling financially and who still work very hard at their jobs. (The husband is/was an iron worker.) I certainly do not begrudge these folks. They are hard working people who have struggled and, I'm sure, can use this money to live a better life.
However...
If you saw this interview today you might ask yourself-"Could you be a little LESS EXCITED to win all that money?"
These 2 were, in a word, flat. The wife only cracked a smile when her husband was asked, "What do you want to buy with the money?", and he said, "She wants a new Lexus." and she was ADAMANT (and finally awake apparently) enough to tell him a MERCEDES. The husband...never smiled once. If I'd had the sound off on the TV I would have thought they were being interviewed because their son-in-law had hacked up their daughter. Seriously.
Look, I know they're from a small town and aren't used to all this 'glitz' and glamour stuff but people...YOU WON OVER $100 million, show some enthusiasm. A little. Smile, laugh, be happy...anything!
Now, if you won the lottery how would *you* react during your Today show interview?
Giddy?
Thrilled?
Over the moon?
or,
Dejected?
Quiet?
Morose?
I choose the former-I could list you 20 things to buy THAT DAY. I could list you 20 PEOPLE I'd help that day. (After I visited the financial advisor and lawyer-that's a shout out to Mr. P&P by the way...he'd be at those offices, I'd be at THE MALL!)
HA!
See you in class!
Experts agree...
That exercising with a 'buddy' really works!
We agree!
At the "J", our entire business is built on the friendship between K and A and it's just built from there. I think the only thing that was ever said to set this thing in motion was "Hey, wouldn't it be cool if we had our own Center?" The million dollar question that started it all!
We've certified 18 (19 is in training now) instructors and some in 2's...great friendships (D and M) have formed from those experiences that last to this day.
We have Moms and daughters attending class together, neighbors, work friends, in laws, sisters, cousins...and folks have met in class and formed solid friendships-which are hard to form as adults! Play groups have formed among Moms of little ones and Moms of older kids have kibbitzed about empty nest syndrome, college bound kids, the dreaded middle school and 'how it feels to become a new Grandma".
When we look out at class and see all these great people dancing together, laughing, getting fit and feeling healthier, it sure is a definitive reminder of why we started this whole thing in the first place and why we keep doing it every day.
We have some really special people as our clients and seeing you attend classes every week, through thick and thin in your own lives, and knowing we can offer you a fun place to feel healthier is really a blessing.
So never forget how special and AMAZING you are-just because you're here!
We agree!
At the "J", our entire business is built on the friendship between K and A and it's just built from there. I think the only thing that was ever said to set this thing in motion was "Hey, wouldn't it be cool if we had our own Center?" The million dollar question that started it all!
We've certified 18 (19 is in training now) instructors and some in 2's...great friendships (D and M) have formed from those experiences that last to this day.
We have Moms and daughters attending class together, neighbors, work friends, in laws, sisters, cousins...and folks have met in class and formed solid friendships-which are hard to form as adults! Play groups have formed among Moms of little ones and Moms of older kids have kibbitzed about empty nest syndrome, college bound kids, the dreaded middle school and 'how it feels to become a new Grandma".
When we look out at class and see all these great people dancing together, laughing, getting fit and feeling healthier, it sure is a definitive reminder of why we started this whole thing in the first place and why we keep doing it every day.
We have some really special people as our clients and seeing you attend classes every week, through thick and thin in your own lives, and knowing we can offer you a fun place to feel healthier is really a blessing.
So never forget how special and AMAZING you are-just because you're here!
Saturday, February 23, 2008
All is right with the world...
Last night-9 inches of snow
This morning-plowed out (thankfully), great class (thanks to all who came) and NO working toilets...again! (Thank God for our wonderful plumber-and we should have this fixed permanently by next week!)
This afternoon-my new set DVD in the mail...viewed, 2 new challenging strength routines chosen for tomorrow!
Ah, life is good!
See you all tomorrow with NEW STUFF!
This morning-plowed out (thankfully), great class (thanks to all who came) and NO working toilets...again! (Thank God for our wonderful plumber-and we should have this fixed permanently by next week!)
This afternoon-my new set DVD in the mail...viewed, 2 new challenging strength routines chosen for tomorrow!
Ah, life is good!
See you all tomorrow with NEW STUFF!
An Open Letter to Mother Nature...
Dear MN,
I know you think all this snow is beautiful (and it is) but, for real, could you cut us a break? I mean, it's almost March 1 and I think we could all use some sunshine and temperatures just a wee bit warmer than lately, ok?
I'm sure there's plenty of water now for the Spring flowers and the lakes, rivers and trees so, really, do we need any MORE snow after last night? No, no we do not.
And, while we do appreciate the fact that you covered all the brown, yucky snow (and brown yucky grass) with a white blanket, we are all ready to stop wearing snow boots, stop slipping around the sidewalks and to stop being stuck inside watching all that white loveliness falling from the sky, ok? It looks so pretty but, frankly, we're all done!
Oh and we've all been working our bodies hard in class all winter and we'd like to start showing off all the results we get from "J"...with capri pants, short sleeves and maybe an open toed shoe or two! Please, please, please!
This note sent to you , with love, from all your 'kids' on the East Coast!
Think Spring!
I know you think all this snow is beautiful (and it is) but, for real, could you cut us a break? I mean, it's almost March 1 and I think we could all use some sunshine and temperatures just a wee bit warmer than lately, ok?
I'm sure there's plenty of water now for the Spring flowers and the lakes, rivers and trees so, really, do we need any MORE snow after last night? No, no we do not.
And, while we do appreciate the fact that you covered all the brown, yucky snow (and brown yucky grass) with a white blanket, we are all ready to stop wearing snow boots, stop slipping around the sidewalks and to stop being stuck inside watching all that white loveliness falling from the sky, ok? It looks so pretty but, frankly, we're all done!
Oh and we've all been working our bodies hard in class all winter and we'd like to start showing off all the results we get from "J"...with capri pants, short sleeves and maybe an open toed shoe or two! Please, please, please!
This note sent to you , with love, from all your 'kids' on the East Coast!
Think Spring!
Friday, February 22, 2008
Snow....again and, are YOU scarred by the Blizzard of 78?
Seriously people...WTF is up with our weather??!!
We may or may not be able to have afternoon/evening classes today...we decide around 3pm so if you're reading today-call or check the website for info, ok?
So, as some of you already know, I moved here in 1982 for school. Prior to that, I lived for 5 years in MT (land of WAY more snow that this...which I thought I was getting out of!) and, prior to that, was born and raised in S. CA. I was not here in 1978; however, my extended family was. (Father's side)
Anyway, when I moved here I quickly learned that any snow storm (from 1/2 an inch to a foot) causes people to run (dare I say sprint) to the nearest grocery store and buy EVERYTHING in sight. I think you had to live through the Blizzard of 78 to 'get' it.
My observations?
People are certifiably crazy when there's a storm. For days ahead of time. Case in point: I do my regular grocery shopping on Friday mornings. I decided to get up early today and go because I knew what the place was going to be like. First of all, the store I shop at is not one that a lot of people go to. It's a bit out of the way so there isn't usually any line at the checkout. Today? Slamming busy. The manager was oblivious. This store's policy is that they bag your groceries and take them out for you. Not so much today. Which is totally fine for me; however, those folks with little ones could still have used the assistance while said manager was twittling his thumbs.
Out in the parking lot? Apparently people cannot park when they can't see the lines. I don't know about you but when I park my SUV I park it SO I CAN EXIT THE VEHICLE WITHOUT CRUSHING MYSELF BY HALF MY SIZE AND SLIPPING OUT OF THE CAR!!!! I mean, could you park so I can even slightly open my door and get in the car? Hmmm? Can you?
Driving? My thought would be if you're driving a 1995 Thunderbird with REAR wheel drive and bald tires you might NOT want to run a red light and slam on your brakes, then tailgate those in front of you. I'm guessing that sweet ride also does NOT have anti-lock brakes either. My advice Mr. Old Thunderbird Driver-slow the _____ down because you ARE going to bash into the back of someone and, if it's me, you'll probably be really sorry. You won't see my 'sweet' side that's for sure.
And, you may NOT want to be TEXTING on the highway in this weather either because when you, "Ms. Minivan driver with the screaming kids in the back" are swerving out of your lane while trying to text AND discipline little Johnnie, you may just HIT someone!
Ok-27 days until Spring. I hope to God we all make it because this...is getting ridiculous!
We may or may not be able to have afternoon/evening classes today...we decide around 3pm so if you're reading today-call or check the website for info, ok?
So, as some of you already know, I moved here in 1982 for school. Prior to that, I lived for 5 years in MT (land of WAY more snow that this...which I thought I was getting out of!) and, prior to that, was born and raised in S. CA. I was not here in 1978; however, my extended family was. (Father's side)
Anyway, when I moved here I quickly learned that any snow storm (from 1/2 an inch to a foot) causes people to run (dare I say sprint) to the nearest grocery store and buy EVERYTHING in sight. I think you had to live through the Blizzard of 78 to 'get' it.
My observations?
People are certifiably crazy when there's a storm. For days ahead of time. Case in point: I do my regular grocery shopping on Friday mornings. I decided to get up early today and go because I knew what the place was going to be like. First of all, the store I shop at is not one that a lot of people go to. It's a bit out of the way so there isn't usually any line at the checkout. Today? Slamming busy. The manager was oblivious. This store's policy is that they bag your groceries and take them out for you. Not so much today. Which is totally fine for me; however, those folks with little ones could still have used the assistance while said manager was twittling his thumbs.
Out in the parking lot? Apparently people cannot park when they can't see the lines. I don't know about you but when I park my SUV I park it SO I CAN EXIT THE VEHICLE WITHOUT CRUSHING MYSELF BY HALF MY SIZE AND SLIPPING OUT OF THE CAR!!!! I mean, could you park so I can even slightly open my door and get in the car? Hmmm? Can you?
Driving? My thought would be if you're driving a 1995 Thunderbird with REAR wheel drive and bald tires you might NOT want to run a red light and slam on your brakes, then tailgate those in front of you. I'm guessing that sweet ride also does NOT have anti-lock brakes either. My advice Mr. Old Thunderbird Driver-slow the _____ down because you ARE going to bash into the back of someone and, if it's me, you'll probably be really sorry. You won't see my 'sweet' side that's for sure.
And, you may NOT want to be TEXTING on the highway in this weather either because when you, "Ms. Minivan driver with the screaming kids in the back" are swerving out of your lane while trying to text AND discipline little Johnnie, you may just HIT someone!
Ok-27 days until Spring. I hope to God we all make it because this...is getting ridiculous!
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Customer service obituary??!!
People, it's freezing today. Snow due in tomorrow. Joyous. NOT.
As you all know, we work extremely hard to provide you with the highest level of customer service. Why? Because you deserve it and, well, we've seen how we are treated in other businesses (non-J) and, quite frankly, we cannot stand it!
So, though we know it's not dead HERE, is customer service dead out there in the big world?
I submit to you it is, sadly, dead.
I say this because, once again, I patronized a certain 'branded' gas station which I can currently see from my seat. I used to work for this Company and I have continued to patronize their locations. Many people do not like this Company as it is the largest Company on the planet but, I love them. Usually. And at most locations...just not the one I can SEE from my desk. I know better than to go there but, well, I was in a hurry today!
Why the frustration? Well, once again I pulled in to fill my behometh of an SUV (we balance it in our family with Mr. P&P's very economical Honda Civic coupe) with gas. A storm is coming (see first line of this post) and I like to have a full tank of gas. (It truly goes back to the living in MT days...) So, I swipe my speedpass and choose my grade of gas, the pump starts, pumps $3 and stops. (My tank was half empty so, trust me, $3 is not going to fill it!) I try it again, same thing. I lock my vehicle and go into the station...I ask the cashier if there's a problem with that pump and the grade of gas I'm buying. He says, "Well, yes, you can't pump that grade gas off those 2 pumps unless someone else is already pumping it." Uh, what? (NO signage to this affect...whateva. Apparently, 'everyone' knows this (according to him) except me! So, I move my car to another pump on the other side of the station. I swipe my speedpass and it says "Your transaction cancelled, see cashier." I do it again. Same result. I try my actual debit card. Same thing. I then go into the station again and question said cashier AGAIN. He says, "Uh, I don't know." Excuse me, it says see the cashier are YOU the cashier? "Yes." Then why isn't it working? "Uh, I don't know what to tell you. It doesn't say that in here." Really. (Insert any number of expletives here...) I go BACK out and swipe my debit card yet again and it finally works and pumps the entire amount of gas I need.
AFTER 15 MINUTES OF THIS BS. This kind of crap has happened, oh, the last 3 times I've tried to get gas there. No the exact same issue but similar ones. Will I never learn??!!!
For real.
Here's my point...(I know you were waiting for it, right?) if you're going to work somewhere and are 'the person' there to answer customer questions then FIGURE IT OUT. We tell our class managers...never tell a customer "I don't know." You can say, "I'm not sure but I'll find out." We are there to answer questions, assist or find out answers we don't yet have. In other words, we are here to SERVE our customers.
What could Mr. "I don't know" Gas attendant have done? Well, he could have said, "Try it again and see if it works." Or, "Let me come out and see what it says out there." Or, "Sorry, not sure why it's doing that, we've been having some trouble today." Or, PRACTICALLY ANYTHING other than "Duh, I dunno."
Seriously. Is it me? I think not. It seems everywhere ones goes nowadays the employees have no clue about anything. Except here, of course.
Here at the J you will have your questions answered with a smile and a "How are you?" when you come in...we'll use your ACTUAL name, not call you Ma'am and be genuinely as helpful as we can be. Thank God because, 'out there', things really s*ck!
As you all know, we work extremely hard to provide you with the highest level of customer service. Why? Because you deserve it and, well, we've seen how we are treated in other businesses (non-J) and, quite frankly, we cannot stand it!
So, though we know it's not dead HERE, is customer service dead out there in the big world?
I submit to you it is, sadly, dead.
I say this because, once again, I patronized a certain 'branded' gas station which I can currently see from my seat. I used to work for this Company and I have continued to patronize their locations. Many people do not like this Company as it is the largest Company on the planet but, I love them. Usually. And at most locations...just not the one I can SEE from my desk. I know better than to go there but, well, I was in a hurry today!
Why the frustration? Well, once again I pulled in to fill my behometh of an SUV (we balance it in our family with Mr. P&P's very economical Honda Civic coupe) with gas. A storm is coming (see first line of this post) and I like to have a full tank of gas. (It truly goes back to the living in MT days...) So, I swipe my speedpass and choose my grade of gas, the pump starts, pumps $3 and stops. (My tank was half empty so, trust me, $3 is not going to fill it!) I try it again, same thing. I lock my vehicle and go into the station...I ask the cashier if there's a problem with that pump and the grade of gas I'm buying. He says, "Well, yes, you can't pump that grade gas off those 2 pumps unless someone else is already pumping it." Uh, what? (NO signage to this affect...whateva. Apparently, 'everyone' knows this (according to him) except me! So, I move my car to another pump on the other side of the station. I swipe my speedpass and it says "Your transaction cancelled, see cashier." I do it again. Same result. I try my actual debit card. Same thing. I then go into the station again and question said cashier AGAIN. He says, "Uh, I don't know." Excuse me, it says see the cashier are YOU the cashier? "Yes." Then why isn't it working? "Uh, I don't know what to tell you. It doesn't say that in here." Really. (Insert any number of expletives here...) I go BACK out and swipe my debit card yet again and it finally works and pumps the entire amount of gas I need.
AFTER 15 MINUTES OF THIS BS. This kind of crap has happened, oh, the last 3 times I've tried to get gas there. No the exact same issue but similar ones. Will I never learn??!!!
For real.
Here's my point...(I know you were waiting for it, right?) if you're going to work somewhere and are 'the person' there to answer customer questions then FIGURE IT OUT. We tell our class managers...never tell a customer "I don't know." You can say, "I'm not sure but I'll find out." We are there to answer questions, assist or find out answers we don't yet have. In other words, we are here to SERVE our customers.
What could Mr. "I don't know" Gas attendant have done? Well, he could have said, "Try it again and see if it works." Or, "Let me come out and see what it says out there." Or, "Sorry, not sure why it's doing that, we've been having some trouble today." Or, PRACTICALLY ANYTHING other than "Duh, I dunno."
Seriously. Is it me? I think not. It seems everywhere ones goes nowadays the employees have no clue about anything. Except here, of course.
Here at the J you will have your questions answered with a smile and a "How are you?" when you come in...we'll use your ACTUAL name, not call you Ma'am and be genuinely as helpful as we can be. Thank God because, 'out there', things really s*ck!
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Are you a 'techie' (formerly known as a geek)??
As I was watching the Today show today they were talking about a class (somewhere) that is being given to adults to get them weaned 'off' the internet. You know, to stop texting during a dinner out with the spouse, to stop texting while driving (if any of you do this please, for the love of God, stop) and checking your Crackberry (I have one but am not obsessive about it-I'm obsessive about other things, just not that) at all hours of the day and/or night.
The woman profiled in the piece is a blogger and texts and updates her blog while walking her dog AND while at home where she and her husband (no kids) have 4 computers in different areas of their home so they can stop and 'check in' wherever they are. (No, it did not look like a big house/apt.) In fact, DURING the class they were filming her in she was updating her twitter from her Blackberry...remember, this is a class to wean people OFF the net. She has pledged to go all 'non tech' every Wednesday but does plan to blog about that! HA.
I found this story hilarious.
So, are you a techie?? I would have to say I am but I can also separate from it (uh, except my cell phone I mean, let's be real here). I do not usually check email once I get home at night but I do check my Crackberry once and clear messages before I go to bed. I love my car's Nav system but I can live without it if I have to and I love my ATM card (I mean people please...who even goes into the bank anymore??) and my Ipod...but, I also like going on vacation with my husband and being 'away' from all of it for awhile. (Except the cable TV because, really, I must know what's going on!) And, yes, I do call in at least 1-2x while away but...well, no excuse I guess except I own the place and I live for K to say to me "The place burnt down, don't hurry home" (which she says EVERY time I go away, BTW...HAHA)
Can *you* take a break from all the technology or do you feel tied to it?
And, if you do love your techno-toys and are finding it hard to get to class-set your Nav system with directions to the Center, download our latest music from Itunes Imix and set up your Blackberry calendar to ping when you need to be IN class-and you will be all techno'd out and get your workouts in too...so your techno-compulsion won't be all bad!
The woman profiled in the piece is a blogger and texts and updates her blog while walking her dog AND while at home where she and her husband (no kids) have 4 computers in different areas of their home so they can stop and 'check in' wherever they are. (No, it did not look like a big house/apt.) In fact, DURING the class they were filming her in she was updating her twitter from her Blackberry...remember, this is a class to wean people OFF the net. She has pledged to go all 'non tech' every Wednesday but does plan to blog about that! HA.
I found this story hilarious.
So, are you a techie?? I would have to say I am but I can also separate from it (uh, except my cell phone I mean, let's be real here). I do not usually check email once I get home at night but I do check my Crackberry once and clear messages before I go to bed. I love my car's Nav system but I can live without it if I have to and I love my ATM card (I mean people please...who even goes into the bank anymore??) and my Ipod...but, I also like going on vacation with my husband and being 'away' from all of it for awhile. (Except the cable TV because, really, I must know what's going on!) And, yes, I do call in at least 1-2x while away but...well, no excuse I guess except I own the place and I live for K to say to me "The place burnt down, don't hurry home" (which she says EVERY time I go away, BTW...HAHA)
Can *you* take a break from all the technology or do you feel tied to it?
And, if you do love your techno-toys and are finding it hard to get to class-set your Nav system with directions to the Center, download our latest music from Itunes Imix and set up your Blackberry calendar to ping when you need to be IN class-and you will be all techno'd out and get your workouts in too...so your techno-compulsion won't be all bad!
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Spring Cleaning
Well, it's not 60 degrees out today but it's over 40 (barely) so that's something! I changed to a more 'springy' pocketbook today and started my spring cleaning at home...
Speaking of 'spring cleaning'...if you're in the 'losing weight' mode (or have lost a good amount already) will you (or did you) keep your, ahem, larger sized clothes? Should you?
In my mind, the answer is NO. Do not keep them and, if you have, purge them!
Why?
Well, when I lost my 80lbs. years ago I did hold onto those (ok let's just call them what they are) 'fat clothes' in my closet for awhile. That was until I met K and she told me it was ridiculous (she was right but shhh don't tell her!) to keep them. "You're never going back there, she told me and you're not that size anymore." (I'll never forget getting into a smaller sized jean and almost crying in the fitting room...because I'd picked up a size 3x bigger initially!)
So, I purged those clothes and you know what? It felt great! I felt like it was the first step to totally embracing the healthier me. Plus, I was able to give those clothes (and they were all very nice business clothes) to someone who needed them-since I was going to be living in workout wear henceforth!
So, maybe this is a good week to go through your closet and purge not only things you haven't worn in a year but also any clothes you're holding onto that no longer fit you. OOh, and that goes for things that are WAY too small for you too! It's not about the size (Do you watch What Not to Wear too?), it's about what fits you and makes YOU look and feel good.
Because, you know, it's OK if you were X small, tiny size before you had kids or when you were a 20-something and you're not now. So what! Do you workout regularly and eat healthfully as much as you can? Well, then you're fine. Wanting to lose a little weight is totally ok-but be realistic. Will you even want to wear those things in your closet when you lose those X pounds? I say NO. You'll want to buy new things like every girl in America!
And, if you've lost pounds and inches already why keep those larger things? "Just in case???" If you love yourself (and you should), you'll never go back to those unhealthy habits of eating huge portions and never exercising. You feel too good being healthy-so get rid of those things! It'll free up room in your closet, make you feel good giving those clothes to folks in need and leave you with things to wear that you LOVE and that look great on you!
Now...off you go! Into that closet to purge any 'crap' lurking there-big or small!
See you in class!
Speaking of 'spring cleaning'...if you're in the 'losing weight' mode (or have lost a good amount already) will you (or did you) keep your, ahem, larger sized clothes? Should you?
In my mind, the answer is NO. Do not keep them and, if you have, purge them!
Why?
Well, when I lost my 80lbs. years ago I did hold onto those (ok let's just call them what they are) 'fat clothes' in my closet for awhile. That was until I met K and she told me it was ridiculous (she was right but shhh don't tell her!) to keep them. "You're never going back there, she told me and you're not that size anymore." (I'll never forget getting into a smaller sized jean and almost crying in the fitting room...because I'd picked up a size 3x bigger initially!)
So, I purged those clothes and you know what? It felt great! I felt like it was the first step to totally embracing the healthier me. Plus, I was able to give those clothes (and they were all very nice business clothes) to someone who needed them-since I was going to be living in workout wear henceforth!
So, maybe this is a good week to go through your closet and purge not only things you haven't worn in a year but also any clothes you're holding onto that no longer fit you. OOh, and that goes for things that are WAY too small for you too! It's not about the size (Do you watch What Not to Wear too?), it's about what fits you and makes YOU look and feel good.
Because, you know, it's OK if you were X small, tiny size before you had kids or when you were a 20-something and you're not now. So what! Do you workout regularly and eat healthfully as much as you can? Well, then you're fine. Wanting to lose a little weight is totally ok-but be realistic. Will you even want to wear those things in your closet when you lose those X pounds? I say NO. You'll want to buy new things like every girl in America!
And, if you've lost pounds and inches already why keep those larger things? "Just in case???" If you love yourself (and you should), you'll never go back to those unhealthy habits of eating huge portions and never exercising. You feel too good being healthy-so get rid of those things! It'll free up room in your closet, make you feel good giving those clothes to folks in need and leave you with things to wear that you LOVE and that look great on you!
Now...off you go! Into that closet to purge any 'crap' lurking there-big or small!
See you in class!
Monday, February 18, 2008
Manic Monday...
Happy Monday all. It's rainy but almost 60 degrees! YIPPEE. I'll take the rain (especially since, so far, the roof is doing ok here at the Center)....
We talked about 'baby steps' in an earlier post but I'd like to expound on that a bit if I could.
I mean, with 60 degree temps today Spring is in our sights and that means Summer isn't far behind. We all want to feel and look good for those summer dresses, shorts and bathing suits but let's remember the focus should also be on being fit. Remember not everyone can be 'skinny' nor should be! The key is looking good in YOUR body shape!
Exercise:
When you're in class, we talk about 'pushing' yourself at the top of the aerobic curve. What does that really mean? Simply work as hard as you can, but certainly not if you're out of breathe. Remember the talk or 'woo hoo' test...if you can 'woo' or say "YES" to questions...you're ok. (or if you can laugh...) If you are out of breathe or having trouble breathing, you're working too hard and should back off a bit-do some low impact.
At the top of the curve, try and keep moving between routines, and start the next routine with the instructor right away. This will keep your heart rate up and keep that fat burn going! (If you'd like, check out a heart rate monitor-they can really help you keep your heart rate up and SAFE! Ask at the desk!)
Think about adding 1 class per week to your schedule. Try Circuit or Body Sculpt if you haven't yet. These will 'shake' up the body and keep things interesting for you. Additionally, building muscle is what we want to keep that metabolism going strong!
Don't be afraid of using the tube or ball...we're here to help and show you how. And, if you'd like, ask your instructor before or after class for a quick 'private' lesson in the equipment and you'll feel even more confident!
Food:
I wish I could tell you there's a magic formula-but there isn't. Less calories in and more calories out = weight loss. Equal calories in and out = maintenance. More calories in than out = weight gain. It's really that simple. Should you count calories though? No...it's not reality. Most folks can do it for awhile but, let's face it...it gets old!
I've said this before but it DOES work...keep a food journal for 1 week. (We can even give you one that tracks it all...just email me and ask and I'll get one ready for you!) Then, look at your food journal (you have to write EVERYTHING you put in your mouth-even that handful of M&M's...) and you'll see what you can change. If you drink soda (diet or otherwise) cut that out. If you are having chips with your sandwich every day, skip the chips 3x per week. You still get them 2x per week and it'll cut a good amount of calories out! Are you eating enough veggies and fruit? I know it's hard...if you're a sandwich eater, try adding tomatoes, lettuce, onion, green peppers or avocado (I know, my CA is showing!) to your sandwich every day. Eat a bowl of soup too, that adds even more veggies!
Try a new fruit each week...you'll find some you love and can easily add to your weekly menu! Make it fun...share with friends at work too! And, you might even get your family eating better too!
Choose after either lunch or dinner to have dessert. That way, you get your sweet treats and don't feel like you're deprived. When you feel like you 'can't' have a certain food or food group-you won't stick to healthier eating. Don't think of it as a DIET, think of it as eating more healthfully. Don't ever say "I'm never eating 'that' again"...if you love pizza and are used to eating 3 slices, eat 2. If you are used to eating an entire sleeve of Girl Scout cookies, eat 1/2 a sleeve. You really can have everything you like if you watch your portion sizes and the frequency with which you eat certain high fat things.
So, maybe it really is simple...but we all know how tough it is. Just take every day at a time. If you don't eat as well as you wanted to today, do better tomorrow. It's never too late to improve your life-just do your best and you'll be ok!
We talked about 'baby steps' in an earlier post but I'd like to expound on that a bit if I could.
I mean, with 60 degree temps today Spring is in our sights and that means Summer isn't far behind. We all want to feel and look good for those summer dresses, shorts and bathing suits but let's remember the focus should also be on being fit. Remember not everyone can be 'skinny' nor should be! The key is looking good in YOUR body shape!
Exercise:
When you're in class, we talk about 'pushing' yourself at the top of the aerobic curve. What does that really mean? Simply work as hard as you can, but certainly not if you're out of breathe. Remember the talk or 'woo hoo' test...if you can 'woo' or say "YES" to questions...you're ok. (or if you can laugh...) If you are out of breathe or having trouble breathing, you're working too hard and should back off a bit-do some low impact.
At the top of the curve, try and keep moving between routines, and start the next routine with the instructor right away. This will keep your heart rate up and keep that fat burn going! (If you'd like, check out a heart rate monitor-they can really help you keep your heart rate up and SAFE! Ask at the desk!)
Think about adding 1 class per week to your schedule. Try Circuit or Body Sculpt if you haven't yet. These will 'shake' up the body and keep things interesting for you. Additionally, building muscle is what we want to keep that metabolism going strong!
Don't be afraid of using the tube or ball...we're here to help and show you how. And, if you'd like, ask your instructor before or after class for a quick 'private' lesson in the equipment and you'll feel even more confident!
Food:
I wish I could tell you there's a magic formula-but there isn't. Less calories in and more calories out = weight loss. Equal calories in and out = maintenance. More calories in than out = weight gain. It's really that simple. Should you count calories though? No...it's not reality. Most folks can do it for awhile but, let's face it...it gets old!
I've said this before but it DOES work...keep a food journal for 1 week. (We can even give you one that tracks it all...just email me and ask and I'll get one ready for you!) Then, look at your food journal (you have to write EVERYTHING you put in your mouth-even that handful of M&M's...) and you'll see what you can change. If you drink soda (diet or otherwise) cut that out. If you are having chips with your sandwich every day, skip the chips 3x per week. You still get them 2x per week and it'll cut a good amount of calories out! Are you eating enough veggies and fruit? I know it's hard...if you're a sandwich eater, try adding tomatoes, lettuce, onion, green peppers or avocado (I know, my CA is showing!) to your sandwich every day. Eat a bowl of soup too, that adds even more veggies!
Try a new fruit each week...you'll find some you love and can easily add to your weekly menu! Make it fun...share with friends at work too! And, you might even get your family eating better too!
Choose after either lunch or dinner to have dessert. That way, you get your sweet treats and don't feel like you're deprived. When you feel like you 'can't' have a certain food or food group-you won't stick to healthier eating. Don't think of it as a DIET, think of it as eating more healthfully. Don't ever say "I'm never eating 'that' again"...if you love pizza and are used to eating 3 slices, eat 2. If you are used to eating an entire sleeve of Girl Scout cookies, eat 1/2 a sleeve. You really can have everything you like if you watch your portion sizes and the frequency with which you eat certain high fat things.
So, maybe it really is simple...but we all know how tough it is. Just take every day at a time. If you don't eat as well as you wanted to today, do better tomorrow. It's never too late to improve your life-just do your best and you'll be ok!
Sunday, February 17, 2008
One thing leads to another...yeah yeah yeah
Thank God this week is over!
Yesterday was the AHA Health Fair at the Tsongas Arena and it was fun...but probably won't lead to many new customers. (Thanks to T and J for coming by to help me!)
When we first book these health fairs, we do hope for some newbies. After all, we're exposing folks to our program and, well, that's part of good marketing!
So, I was sitting there at the booth (While K was teaching for me-thanks!), I was thinking "Oh brother, this is going to be a long day with no possible newbies..." (Frankly, I was thinking it was almost a waste of time. Though we did meet a few folks who work at the Arena and someone who works for the L Devils who might actually come to class!)
Then, a gentleman came up to the desk and seemed to want to talk. I asked him if he was having a good day (He was probably in his 60's or 70's) and he told me he was at the Health Fair because he'd just had a heart attack. He said he was there to learn and was starting cardiac rehab this week. He almost started crying talking about it, as he told me how he had chest pain, thought it was indigestion and waited awhile to call the ambulance. Luckily, he *did* call and he was ok-though he did have a heart attack. He said it felt so weird to say "I had a heart attack." I can totally relate-it was weird for me to say my Dad had one.
I told him about my Dad and he got even more emotional (he was probably about my Dad's age-at least the age he would be now). He said he had to walk on a treadmill for the first time and almost collapsed-he'd never worked out before. This man was scared about rehab, but I reminded him (multiple times) he was STILL HERE and that was surely something!
I told him that he could do it, to just take one day at a time and that he would get stronger every day and that, with all the advances in Heart research, he was here, alive and able to hug his family and THAT is an accomplishment.
I tried to allay his fears about exercise, tell him it could be fun and remind him that, maybe he only walked on the treadmill that first time for 1 minute but tomorrow, it'll be 2 minutes and so on and so on...
He seemed to feel better and thanked me, gave me a quick hug and walked away.
I guess I'm still thinking about him because, well, as I said, he was about the age my Dad would be now if he'd lived through his heart attack 28 years ago. And then I realized that I might have gone there for a health fair, to promote our business and try and gain new customers, but I guess that's not really why I was there yesterday. Maybe I was there for a totally different reason. Maybe I was there to talk to this man and help him through his fears a little bit.
I hope I did because you know what? That totally made my day. After that, I could have cared less (really) if anyone would really come to class. It reminded me that, sometimes, one thing does lead to another!
Yesterday was the AHA Health Fair at the Tsongas Arena and it was fun...but probably won't lead to many new customers. (Thanks to T and J for coming by to help me!)
When we first book these health fairs, we do hope for some newbies. After all, we're exposing folks to our program and, well, that's part of good marketing!
So, I was sitting there at the booth (While K was teaching for me-thanks!), I was thinking "Oh brother, this is going to be a long day with no possible newbies..." (Frankly, I was thinking it was almost a waste of time. Though we did meet a few folks who work at the Arena and someone who works for the L Devils who might actually come to class!)
Then, a gentleman came up to the desk and seemed to want to talk. I asked him if he was having a good day (He was probably in his 60's or 70's) and he told me he was at the Health Fair because he'd just had a heart attack. He said he was there to learn and was starting cardiac rehab this week. He almost started crying talking about it, as he told me how he had chest pain, thought it was indigestion and waited awhile to call the ambulance. Luckily, he *did* call and he was ok-though he did have a heart attack. He said it felt so weird to say "I had a heart attack." I can totally relate-it was weird for me to say my Dad had one.
I told him about my Dad and he got even more emotional (he was probably about my Dad's age-at least the age he would be now). He said he had to walk on a treadmill for the first time and almost collapsed-he'd never worked out before. This man was scared about rehab, but I reminded him (multiple times) he was STILL HERE and that was surely something!
I told him that he could do it, to just take one day at a time and that he would get stronger every day and that, with all the advances in Heart research, he was here, alive and able to hug his family and THAT is an accomplishment.
I tried to allay his fears about exercise, tell him it could be fun and remind him that, maybe he only walked on the treadmill that first time for 1 minute but tomorrow, it'll be 2 minutes and so on and so on...
He seemed to feel better and thanked me, gave me a quick hug and walked away.
I guess I'm still thinking about him because, well, as I said, he was about the age my Dad would be now if he'd lived through his heart attack 28 years ago. And then I realized that I might have gone there for a health fair, to promote our business and try and gain new customers, but I guess that's not really why I was there yesterday. Maybe I was there for a totally different reason. Maybe I was there to talk to this man and help him through his fears a little bit.
I hope I did because you know what? That totally made my day. After that, I could have cared less (really) if anyone would really come to class. It reminded me that, sometimes, one thing does lead to another!
Thursday, February 14, 2008
Both toilets now clogged...
And now, in addition to the fun roof stuff, sick instructors and sick instructors children, both our toilets are clogged and the plumber is here 'on the case'.
Send fudge.
Or Cadbury mini eggs.
Or help.
Send fudge.
Or Cadbury mini eggs.
Or help.
Happy Periods?
Today is a bright, beautiful day and all I have to say is "Thank God" because yesterday...was a nightmare. All I'm going to say is "major leak in roof at studio, Owner almost loses mind... film at 11". Our roofer is due in first thing tomorrow. Please God.
Anyway, onto the subject at hand.
Ladies-what exactly is a "happy period"?
Last night in class we really needed to be silly (see the first paragraph of this post) and so someone said something about those TV ads touting the "Happy Period". (No worries, this is *not* a graphic post...) I picked that right up and I think we all agreed there is no such thing, unless your 11 or 12 years old and it's your first one. Then it's all about you 'becoming a woman' and all that crap.
Now, I am glad I'm a girl-believe me. I have no wishes to be a man (not that there's anything wrong with that...). Mr. P and P complains about having to shave his face (uh, we have to wax, laser or shave EVERYthing else buster...) and having to wear a tie. We, on the other hand have, well, 'periods' and, quite frankly, there's nothing 'happy' about it.
I do understand the marketing ploy-comfort, cleanliness...yada yada but, for real? Happy Periods?
N O.
What the hell is happy about cramps that cut you in half, back pain, emotional outbursts that come OUT OF NO WHERE and that feeling that every thing in the world is against you? MMMM? What is happy about it? Tell me...now!
I realize it's what allows women to have babies and, for that, I am grateful but still...happy? Nein.
For those of you who have never experienced a cramp nor pain of any kind surrounding your "ladies days" then...good for you. For the rest of us-I think I can safely say there's isn't a GD thing that's 'happy' about it...except the day it's over for the month!
Anyway, onto the subject at hand.
Ladies-what exactly is a "happy period"?
Last night in class we really needed to be silly (see the first paragraph of this post) and so someone said something about those TV ads touting the "Happy Period". (No worries, this is *not* a graphic post...) I picked that right up and I think we all agreed there is no such thing, unless your 11 or 12 years old and it's your first one. Then it's all about you 'becoming a woman' and all that crap.
Now, I am glad I'm a girl-believe me. I have no wishes to be a man (not that there's anything wrong with that...). Mr. P and P complains about having to shave his face (uh, we have to wax, laser or shave EVERYthing else buster...) and having to wear a tie. We, on the other hand have, well, 'periods' and, quite frankly, there's nothing 'happy' about it.
I do understand the marketing ploy-comfort, cleanliness...yada yada but, for real? Happy Periods?
N O.
What the hell is happy about cramps that cut you in half, back pain, emotional outbursts that come OUT OF NO WHERE and that feeling that every thing in the world is against you? MMMM? What is happy about it? Tell me...now!
I realize it's what allows women to have babies and, for that, I am grateful but still...happy? Nein.
For those of you who have never experienced a cramp nor pain of any kind surrounding your "ladies days" then...good for you. For the rest of us-I think I can safely say there's isn't a GD thing that's 'happy' about it...except the day it's over for the month!
Monday, February 11, 2008
Blinkers (aka turn signals)
Happy Monday everyone.
We're freezing our 'you know whats' off here in New England and it's beyond cold.
Let me ask you all something...do *you* use the turn signals on your car? I do. I'm sure you all do too but don't you find it aggravating how many people do not???!!!!
I swear to all that is holy that there is an inordinate number of people in this world who do not use their turn signals AT ALL!!!! Are they trying to 'be green' and not use that bulb up? Is the lever frozen? (It could be today) Do they think the rest of us our psychic? Is this some kind of universal 'punk'????
I think my favorite example of this is the person in front of you who slows down at every street but uses no turn signal. They pass the first side street, slow down, then speed up...next side street, slow down, then speed up...and on and on for about 4 streets until they finally come to a complete stop...and then turn. (Yet, no signal) Now, I do understand they may be lost but for goodness sake-USE YOUR SIGNAL!
Wasn't the use of the turn signal one of the first things you learnt in driver's ed?? Hmmm? Now, I did get my driver's license at the tender age of 13.5 years (yes, that's right...my parents had dragged us to MT so that's how I got it that early as that was (and still is) the age there; however, I distinctly remembering being told to SIGNAL when making a turn.
Oh and what about all those people who seem oblivious that there are even other PEOPLE driving on this planet? Hello...you're not ALONE here! When you stop in the middle of the road as if at a stop sign and we honk at you, please do not flip US off...dude, you were the one who stopped MID ROAD for NO apparent reason!
So, to all of you who do not use your signal...Please for the love of God use it. The bulb costs pennies to replace and, well, don't blame us for almost bashing into you when you do not use it. Oh and please, stop only when there's a stop SIGN...because, again, if we don't see a stop sign we're going to assume you will keep moving forward!
We're freezing our 'you know whats' off here in New England and it's beyond cold.
Let me ask you all something...do *you* use the turn signals on your car? I do. I'm sure you all do too but don't you find it aggravating how many people do not???!!!!
I swear to all that is holy that there is an inordinate number of people in this world who do not use their turn signals AT ALL!!!! Are they trying to 'be green' and not use that bulb up? Is the lever frozen? (It could be today) Do they think the rest of us our psychic? Is this some kind of universal 'punk'????
I think my favorite example of this is the person in front of you who slows down at every street but uses no turn signal. They pass the first side street, slow down, then speed up...next side street, slow down, then speed up...and on and on for about 4 streets until they finally come to a complete stop...and then turn. (Yet, no signal) Now, I do understand they may be lost but for goodness sake-USE YOUR SIGNAL!
Wasn't the use of the turn signal one of the first things you learnt in driver's ed?? Hmmm? Now, I did get my driver's license at the tender age of 13.5 years (yes, that's right...my parents had dragged us to MT so that's how I got it that early as that was (and still is) the age there; however, I distinctly remembering being told to SIGNAL when making a turn.
Oh and what about all those people who seem oblivious that there are even other PEOPLE driving on this planet? Hello...you're not ALONE here! When you stop in the middle of the road as if at a stop sign and we honk at you, please do not flip US off...dude, you were the one who stopped MID ROAD for NO apparent reason!
So, to all of you who do not use your signal...Please for the love of God use it. The bulb costs pennies to replace and, well, don't blame us for almost bashing into you when you do not use it. Oh and please, stop only when there's a stop SIGN...because, again, if we don't see a stop sign we're going to assume you will keep moving forward!
Friday, February 8, 2008
Meme-just have fun with it!
1. WERE YOU NAMED AFTER ANYONE? Yes...my Great Grandma.
2. WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED? Tuesday. I was frustrated. Big time.
3.DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? I suppose. Everyone says it's nice.
4. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT? NONE
5. DO YOU HAVE KIDS? Yes, 1 four legged 7 year old yellow lab I love!
6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? Yes, because I like people who shoot straight.
7. DO YOU USE SARCASM A LOT? HA HA No. ( of course I do sarcasm is my life)
8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? Yep.
9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? N O.
10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? Kashi Strawberry fields
11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? N O
12. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG? Oh yeah.
13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM? Chocolate peanut butter at Kimball's.
14. WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE? TEETH
15. RED OR PINK? Either one
16. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? My lack of patience.
17. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? My Dad. Hands down. If I had one wish it would be for him to be alive again. Money? No. Fame? No. Just Dad.
18. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO SEND THIS BACK TO YOU? If they want to.
19. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING? Blue jeans and socks, Dansk clogs are off by now!
20. WHAT WAS THE LAST THING YOU ATE? a few caramel hershey kisses
21. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? M&J on WTKK
22. IF YOU WHERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? Uh, royal blue?
23. FAVORITE SMELLS? Roses, Ocean Water candle by Yankee
24. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? My friend Dawn.
25. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO SENT THIS TO YOU? I got this from another blog and I do like the writer!
26. FAVORITE SPORTS TO WATCH? Uh, people we live in Boston so, football, baseball, basketball and hockey (ok, I prefer football).
27. HAIR COLOR? The every so lovely 'dirty' blond
28. EYE COLOR? Blue
27. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? Yes
30. FAVORITE FOOD? Homemade guacamole-preferrably made, at home, in Santa Barbara
31. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS? Happy endings, absolutely.
32. LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED? I have no idea.
33. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING? Black sweater, blue tank to layer
34. SUMMER OR WINTER? SUMMER.
35. HUGS OR KISSES? Hugs.
36. FAVORITE DESSERT? Molten lava chocolate cake
37. MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND? Uh, it's a blog-so I'm not sure how many are even reading this yet!
38. LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND? See above.
39. WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING NOW? Right now it's boring research on the Bosu ball and core training...
40. WHAT IS ON YOUR MOUSE PAD? Nothing
41. WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON T.V. LAST NIGHT? Tivo'd "O" and Dr. Phil
42. FAVORITE SOUND? My dog's 'purring' sound ( we call her Kitty pup) and my students woo hooing in class!
43. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES? Uh, too young so neither!
44. WHAT IS THE FARTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME? Austria
45. DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT? I'd say no.
46. WHERE WERE YOU BORN? Santa Barbara CA
47. WHOSE ANSWERS ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO GETTING BACK? Refer to #37.
48. WHAT TIME IS IT NOW? 2:02pm
2. WHEN WAS THE LAST TIME YOU CRIED? Tuesday. I was frustrated. Big time.
3.DO YOU LIKE YOUR HANDWRITING? I suppose. Everyone says it's nice.
4. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE LUNCH MEAT? NONE
5. DO YOU HAVE KIDS? Yes, 1 four legged 7 year old yellow lab I love!
6. IF YOU WERE ANOTHER PERSON WOULD YOU BE FRIENDS WITH YOU? Yes, because I like people who shoot straight.
7. DO YOU USE SARCASM A LOT? HA HA No. ( of course I do sarcasm is my life)
8. DO YOU STILL HAVE YOUR TONSILS? Yep.
9. WOULD YOU BUNGEE JUMP? N O.
10. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE CEREAL? Kashi Strawberry fields
11. DO YOU UNTIE YOUR SHOES WHEN YOU TAKE THEM OFF? N O
12. DO YOU THINK YOU ARE STRONG? Oh yeah.
13. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE ICE CREAM? Chocolate peanut butter at Kimball's.
14. WHAT IS THE FIRST THING YOU NOTICE ABOUT PEOPLE? TEETH
15. RED OR PINK? Either one
16. WHAT IS THE LEAST FAVORITE THING ABOUT YOURSELF? My lack of patience.
17. WHO DO YOU MISS THE MOST? My Dad. Hands down. If I had one wish it would be for him to be alive again. Money? No. Fame? No. Just Dad.
18. DO YOU WANT EVERYONE TO SEND THIS BACK TO YOU? If they want to.
19. WHAT COLOR PANTS AND SHOES ARE YOU WEARING? Blue jeans and socks, Dansk clogs are off by now!
20. WHAT WAS THE LAST THING YOU ATE? a few caramel hershey kisses
21. WHAT ARE YOU LISTENING TO RIGHT NOW? M&J on WTKK
22. IF YOU WHERE A CRAYON, WHAT COLOR WOULD YOU BE? Uh, royal blue?
23. FAVORITE SMELLS? Roses, Ocean Water candle by Yankee
24. WHO WAS THE LAST PERSON YOU TALKED TO ON THE PHONE? My friend Dawn.
25. DO YOU LIKE THE PERSON WHO SENT THIS TO YOU? I got this from another blog and I do like the writer!
26. FAVORITE SPORTS TO WATCH? Uh, people we live in Boston so, football, baseball, basketball and hockey (ok, I prefer football).
27. HAIR COLOR? The every so lovely 'dirty' blond
28. EYE COLOR? Blue
27. DO YOU WEAR CONTACTS? Yes
30. FAVORITE FOOD? Homemade guacamole-preferrably made, at home, in Santa Barbara
31. SCARY MOVIES OR HAPPY ENDINGS? Happy endings, absolutely.
32. LAST MOVIE YOU WATCHED? I have no idea.
33. WHAT COLOR SHIRT ARE YOU WEARING? Black sweater, blue tank to layer
34. SUMMER OR WINTER? SUMMER.
35. HUGS OR KISSES? Hugs.
36. FAVORITE DESSERT? Molten lava chocolate cake
37. MOST LIKELY TO RESPOND? Uh, it's a blog-so I'm not sure how many are even reading this yet!
38. LEAST LIKELY TO RESPOND? See above.
39. WHAT BOOK ARE YOU READING NOW? Right now it's boring research on the Bosu ball and core training...
40. WHAT IS ON YOUR MOUSE PAD? Nothing
41. WHAT DID YOU WATCH ON T.V. LAST NIGHT? Tivo'd "O" and Dr. Phil
42. FAVORITE SOUND? My dog's 'purring' sound ( we call her Kitty pup) and my students woo hooing in class!
43. ROLLING STONES OR BEATLES? Uh, too young so neither!
44. WHAT IS THE FARTHEST YOU HAVE BEEN FROM HOME? Austria
45. DO YOU HAVE A SPECIAL TALENT? I'd say no.
46. WHERE WERE YOU BORN? Santa Barbara CA
47. WHOSE ANSWERS ARE YOU LOOKING FORWARD TO GETTING BACK? Refer to #37.
48. WHAT TIME IS IT NOW? 2:02pm
Real Food and baby steps
TGIF! Well, except for the weather which is, uh, snowing/sleeting/raining...again. Or still, it's hard to tell.
Recently, I've noticed some ads on TV for a certain national brand of mayo and they talk about 'real food' or, more precisely, getting back to eating 'real food'. I very much agree with this sentiment.
When I work with clients privately (and in my own weight loss long ago), I tell them that, while they must exercise regularly and commit to that for life, they also have to watch their nutrition and do that...for life. No one can be fit and healthy for life by going on a 'diet' or exercising for a few months and then simply going back to old habits like not exercising and eating, well, everything!
The importance of eating 'real food' comes in because, frankly, we all live in the 'real world' and, in that world, there are cheeseburgers and chocolate chip cookies and chips. Now, while I'm sure there are some 'superior' beings that can abstain from all those things for life, I cannot and, well, I don't believe most of us can! Nor should we...having those special treats you love enhances your life. You simply need to watch what you eat and, make it real food.
I have always told our clients that the bane of a woman's existence is soda (tonic, pop, whatever you call it) and salad dressing. We eat these two things way too much for our own good. When you put dressing on your salad, keep it close to 2 tablespoons. If you choose a lowfat dressing...caution! We all tend to put more of it on the salad since, well, it's lowfat, right? (Lowfat can still up your calories, especially if you end up eating more of it!) So far as tonic (soda, pop...) goes, stop drinking it. Just stop. Yes, you can do it. When I was a kid my mother used to say I was addicted to Coca Cola...I drank it A LOT. As an adult, I kept on drinking full sugar soda and that is one reason I arrived at 219lbs. by age 22. (Actually between age 18-22) One of the first things I stopped drinking was all kinds of tonic. (I am allergic to artificial sweetener and have almost been sent to the hospital because of it...so no diet tonic for me.) What do I drink? Water, milk (yes, you need to drink your milk too), orange juice and, sometimes, a Polar Seltzer. (Oh and coffee...of course)
I know it's hard to stop drinking tonic (soda-we're in New England people and I grew up saying tonic, even in S. CA where I grew up with my Boston father), but you can do it. I mean, do you really know what all that artificial sweetener is doing to you? Wouldn't you rather save that 'sugar' for dessert??
Now that we've tackled salad dressing and tonic, what about other 'real foods'? How about butter? (I can almost hear you screaming behind that screen...but wait!) I also believe in using REAL butter and not margarine...use less butter, that's all. Why? Have you ever seen Dr. Oz on the "O" show talking about what margarine does at room temperature? No? Just trust me, use butter and less of it. That margarine stuff will clog your arteries much faster!
And, we mentioned milk...and you say, "I hate milk, do I have to drink it?" Well, you could take that calcium supplement that tastes like chocolate candy but, again, we're talking REAL food here, right? How about having a glass of chocolate milk after dinner as 'dessert'? Can't drink milk because your lactose intolerant? Soy milk. I drink so much milk it's kind of obscene but, well, I like it and I don't need any supplements and I have strong bones that I'm very proud of!
Now, of course, there are many other 'real foods' we could talk about but then this entry would be 1 million words long! So, how about trying this-keep a food journal for one week. Don't show it to anyone, just keep it and read it for yourself. Start Monday and write every, single thing you put into your mouth (even that one Hershey kiss) in that journal (buy a little notebook at CVS-nothing fancy). Then, on Sunday take a look at it. Did you eats lots of veggies or fruits? Or, did you substitute cheese puffs for your dairy products and french fries for your veggies? How many times did you visit a fast food place? Eat out? Cook for yourself? Are you eating standing up? In front of the TV? In the car?
Then during the following week, try to learn from the first week's journaling and try and make healthier choices-just a couple heathier choices, nothing major. Drink 4 sodas a day? Try drinking 2. Having dessert after lunch AND dinner? Trying having it just after dinner. Working out 1x per week-try working out 2x per week. Make baby steps and you'll see a big difference in your energy and health!
One step at a time+real food=real results!
Because...it's only 42 days until Spring!
See you in class!
Recently, I've noticed some ads on TV for a certain national brand of mayo and they talk about 'real food' or, more precisely, getting back to eating 'real food'. I very much agree with this sentiment.
When I work with clients privately (and in my own weight loss long ago), I tell them that, while they must exercise regularly and commit to that for life, they also have to watch their nutrition and do that...for life. No one can be fit and healthy for life by going on a 'diet' or exercising for a few months and then simply going back to old habits like not exercising and eating, well, everything!
The importance of eating 'real food' comes in because, frankly, we all live in the 'real world' and, in that world, there are cheeseburgers and chocolate chip cookies and chips. Now, while I'm sure there are some 'superior' beings that can abstain from all those things for life, I cannot and, well, I don't believe most of us can! Nor should we...having those special treats you love enhances your life. You simply need to watch what you eat and, make it real food.
I have always told our clients that the bane of a woman's existence is soda (tonic, pop, whatever you call it) and salad dressing. We eat these two things way too much for our own good. When you put dressing on your salad, keep it close to 2 tablespoons. If you choose a lowfat dressing...caution! We all tend to put more of it on the salad since, well, it's lowfat, right? (Lowfat can still up your calories, especially if you end up eating more of it!) So far as tonic (soda, pop...) goes, stop drinking it. Just stop. Yes, you can do it. When I was a kid my mother used to say I was addicted to Coca Cola...I drank it A LOT. As an adult, I kept on drinking full sugar soda and that is one reason I arrived at 219lbs. by age 22. (Actually between age 18-22) One of the first things I stopped drinking was all kinds of tonic. (I am allergic to artificial sweetener and have almost been sent to the hospital because of it...so no diet tonic for me.) What do I drink? Water, milk (yes, you need to drink your milk too), orange juice and, sometimes, a Polar Seltzer. (Oh and coffee...of course)
I know it's hard to stop drinking tonic (soda-we're in New England people and I grew up saying tonic, even in S. CA where I grew up with my Boston father), but you can do it. I mean, do you really know what all that artificial sweetener is doing to you? Wouldn't you rather save that 'sugar' for dessert??
Now that we've tackled salad dressing and tonic, what about other 'real foods'? How about butter? (I can almost hear you screaming behind that screen...but wait!) I also believe in using REAL butter and not margarine...use less butter, that's all. Why? Have you ever seen Dr. Oz on the "O" show talking about what margarine does at room temperature? No? Just trust me, use butter and less of it. That margarine stuff will clog your arteries much faster!
And, we mentioned milk...and you say, "I hate milk, do I have to drink it?" Well, you could take that calcium supplement that tastes like chocolate candy but, again, we're talking REAL food here, right? How about having a glass of chocolate milk after dinner as 'dessert'? Can't drink milk because your lactose intolerant? Soy milk. I drink so much milk it's kind of obscene but, well, I like it and I don't need any supplements and I have strong bones that I'm very proud of!
Now, of course, there are many other 'real foods' we could talk about but then this entry would be 1 million words long! So, how about trying this-keep a food journal for one week. Don't show it to anyone, just keep it and read it for yourself. Start Monday and write every, single thing you put into your mouth (even that one Hershey kiss) in that journal (buy a little notebook at CVS-nothing fancy). Then, on Sunday take a look at it. Did you eats lots of veggies or fruits? Or, did you substitute cheese puffs for your dairy products and french fries for your veggies? How many times did you visit a fast food place? Eat out? Cook for yourself? Are you eating standing up? In front of the TV? In the car?
Then during the following week, try to learn from the first week's journaling and try and make healthier choices-just a couple heathier choices, nothing major. Drink 4 sodas a day? Try drinking 2. Having dessert after lunch AND dinner? Trying having it just after dinner. Working out 1x per week-try working out 2x per week. Make baby steps and you'll see a big difference in your energy and health!
One step at a time+real food=real results!
Because...it's only 42 days until Spring!
See you in class!
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Valentine's Day-love it or hate it?
So, Valentine's day is one week away-love it or hate it?
I've gone back and forth about this holiday over the years and I think I've landed on 'don't love it or hate it'...I'm somewhere in the middle.
I think it's nice to get some nice token (flowers, card, candy...) from your sweetie but I also realize, if you're single, that it can be (ahem) kind of a downer of a day.
I say, if you are single, than treat yourself on Valentine's Day-be your own Valentine! After all, who better than YOU to treat you the way you want and should be treated!!?? (Massage, bauble, day out with friends...)
Or maybe for Valentine's day you can treat yourself to an awesome week of workouts, which will make you feel and look better so you can be the best YOU for your sweetie on Valentine's day! (Sort of your gift to them-the gift that keeps on giving-good health!)
So, chime in...love V day or hate it?
I've gone back and forth about this holiday over the years and I think I've landed on 'don't love it or hate it'...I'm somewhere in the middle.
I think it's nice to get some nice token (flowers, card, candy...) from your sweetie but I also realize, if you're single, that it can be (ahem) kind of a downer of a day.
I say, if you are single, than treat yourself on Valentine's Day-be your own Valentine! After all, who better than YOU to treat you the way you want and should be treated!!?? (Massage, bauble, day out with friends...)
Or maybe for Valentine's day you can treat yourself to an awesome week of workouts, which will make you feel and look better so you can be the best YOU for your sweetie on Valentine's day! (Sort of your gift to them-the gift that keeps on giving-good health!)
So, chime in...love V day or hate it?
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Boomerangs...
Well, it's a wet (rainy) Wednesday! Ugh. More snow/ice due tonight into tomorrow morning but I guess that's New England for you!
I'm sure the title of this entry seems odd...
Boomerangs are things (Australian things) that you toss into the air and they come back to you. My topic is on those folks who leave "J" for some reason and then return. "Boomerangs" if you will...
In the last week, we have had 3 people return to class after many years (4 in 2 cases) away. It was *so* good to see them all and have them back in class, smiling and enjoying our program. All three, in fact, started in K's morning classes and have transitioned back to working full time (or part time) now that their kids are grown and now will attend nights and weekends. Clearly, they formed a love for our Center and staff in those morning classes, remembered it and decided to return.
This means the world to K and me. Why? Well, while we love having newbies come in the door (folks who've never done "J" before), having folks return after an absence is even better. Again you may ask, why?
When people are here we try and make them feel special and important because, frankly, they are! The customers make the classes and, obviously, we wouldn't be here 14 years later without each and every one! When someone leaves class it's kind of a big downer. But, we do understand things happen. Financial things, life things, medical things, moves...or even a need for something new. When they let us know they have to go, we do our level best to let them go graciously, get any feedback we can to better our business, and tell them (because it's true) they are always welcome here and that we hope to see them again.
2 of the ladies who returned this week are friends and returned together in my class over the weekend. D and T are always smiling and I remember them from K's classes...they are fun, funny ladies and, when I saw them, I was so happy! They danced in my class with their smiles and laughter and after class they gave us one of our greatest compliments "We were back there today wondering why we ever left?!" That hit me right in the heart...AWESOME! I just silently thanked God and told them "Well, we're glad to have you back now and that's all that matters!"
The 3rd person has always been special to me. J danced in classes with all our instructors (but primarily in the AM with K) for years-5-6x per week. Then, we didn't see her for a week. Then a month, then a year. She was dedicated and then...nothing. I was stumped. When her CC came up for expiration and I called her she gave me the new date and said "Keep my account going". When locker payments were due-she sent hers in with a note "Please don't throw me out of my locker." I tacked that up on the board and left it there. Another year went by...next locker payment due and I called this time. We chatted...she was happy and fine and I was so glad to chat with her...it was great. She told me it was finally time to return and I'd see her that week. True to her word (as always-that's what I love about her) she was in K's class 2x that week and showed up in mine last night. How did I feel? J O Y! I was about to start class but jumped down to hug her.
During class she told me I was still 'on my game' with my cueing and tips (And, you know...that was so good to hear. It's always good to know you still 'got it' from someone who hasn't seen you in a long while.) and after class she told me she was already starting to feel muscles coming back! (She looks great by the way...) Having her special 'light' in class was so awesome for me. Every one of our customers has a special 'light' and hers had been missing...
I guess, overall, it's just nice to know that we are doing what we set out to do when we started this thing. We wanted a place where folks felt welcomed and happy and where they could also get a kick butt workout. K and I travelled around to so many locations when I was in training and saw things both good and not so good that we wanted to emulate or eliminate from our own Center...such good lessons learned and we reap the benefits now.
And, you know...that was all K's idea. I just followed along. The whole time we were travelling around and taking class (or her teaching class), she was teaching and showing me what *to* and what *not* to do. So my hat's off to her for having that foresight I didn't even know we needed!
So, even though it's rainy and yucky today...I feel like the sun shines in here-thanks to all our customers: new ones, veteran ones and our 'boomerangs'!
I'm sure the title of this entry seems odd...
Boomerangs are things (Australian things) that you toss into the air and they come back to you. My topic is on those folks who leave "J" for some reason and then return. "Boomerangs" if you will...
In the last week, we have had 3 people return to class after many years (4 in 2 cases) away. It was *so* good to see them all and have them back in class, smiling and enjoying our program. All three, in fact, started in K's morning classes and have transitioned back to working full time (or part time) now that their kids are grown and now will attend nights and weekends. Clearly, they formed a love for our Center and staff in those morning classes, remembered it and decided to return.
This means the world to K and me. Why? Well, while we love having newbies come in the door (folks who've never done "J" before), having folks return after an absence is even better. Again you may ask, why?
When people are here we try and make them feel special and important because, frankly, they are! The customers make the classes and, obviously, we wouldn't be here 14 years later without each and every one! When someone leaves class it's kind of a big downer. But, we do understand things happen. Financial things, life things, medical things, moves...or even a need for something new. When they let us know they have to go, we do our level best to let them go graciously, get any feedback we can to better our business, and tell them (because it's true) they are always welcome here and that we hope to see them again.
2 of the ladies who returned this week are friends and returned together in my class over the weekend. D and T are always smiling and I remember them from K's classes...they are fun, funny ladies and, when I saw them, I was so happy! They danced in my class with their smiles and laughter and after class they gave us one of our greatest compliments "We were back there today wondering why we ever left?!" That hit me right in the heart...AWESOME! I just silently thanked God and told them "Well, we're glad to have you back now and that's all that matters!"
The 3rd person has always been special to me. J danced in classes with all our instructors (but primarily in the AM with K) for years-5-6x per week. Then, we didn't see her for a week. Then a month, then a year. She was dedicated and then...nothing. I was stumped. When her CC came up for expiration and I called her she gave me the new date and said "Keep my account going". When locker payments were due-she sent hers in with a note "Please don't throw me out of my locker." I tacked that up on the board and left it there. Another year went by...next locker payment due and I called this time. We chatted...she was happy and fine and I was so glad to chat with her...it was great. She told me it was finally time to return and I'd see her that week. True to her word (as always-that's what I love about her) she was in K's class 2x that week and showed up in mine last night. How did I feel? J O Y! I was about to start class but jumped down to hug her.
During class she told me I was still 'on my game' with my cueing and tips (And, you know...that was so good to hear. It's always good to know you still 'got it' from someone who hasn't seen you in a long while.) and after class she told me she was already starting to feel muscles coming back! (She looks great by the way...) Having her special 'light' in class was so awesome for me. Every one of our customers has a special 'light' and hers had been missing...
I guess, overall, it's just nice to know that we are doing what we set out to do when we started this thing. We wanted a place where folks felt welcomed and happy and where they could also get a kick butt workout. K and I travelled around to so many locations when I was in training and saw things both good and not so good that we wanted to emulate or eliminate from our own Center...such good lessons learned and we reap the benefits now.
And, you know...that was all K's idea. I just followed along. The whole time we were travelling around and taking class (or her teaching class), she was teaching and showing me what *to* and what *not* to do. So my hat's off to her for having that foresight I didn't even know we needed!
So, even though it's rainy and yucky today...I feel like the sun shines in here-thanks to all our customers: new ones, veteran ones and our 'boomerangs'!
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
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