Hi Everyone,
Well, many of you missed it (which is totally ok), but I started teaching again last Wed. night. Yes, that's right-4 weeks and 6 days after my surgery. I team taught with KT and will be phasing back into my schedule, not jumping in with both sneakers like I REALLY want to...gotta be smart about it!
I will be teaching this Saturday's Body Sculpt and, once again, team teaching the Jazz class with KT. Then, it's just doing team teaching Jazz and starting to restart teaching all the Body Sculpt classes next week. To say I am thrilled to be back is a huge understatement...huge.
I don't know how many people realize that, for me, teaching J is my calling-we all have one and this is mine. Some are called to teaching school, to be nurses or doctors...when you find the place you were meant to be, it feels right. Plus, doing this is the only talent I have! HAHA
Many may say, "It's too early for you to be back, my Mother-in-law took forever to heal."(Uh with the MIL being an 84 year old...) "My sister had a tough time, how can you be doing so well?"
First, everyone heals differently. Look at a woman with 2 pregnancies-1 very easy, natural birth, no problems and the 2nd one she was on bed rest. Same women, same body, 2 different outcomes. Your healing (or your sister's, mother's, brother's or husband's) isn't MY healing.
Second, how did I do this? Well, I didn't. I have kept my body very fit and healthy (I really believe you all have no idea how fit you are doing J...if you're coming to class 3-5x per week you are VERY fit, strong and healthy!) for over 20 years and that makes a HUGE difference. Plus, I'm only 46 years old thank you-not 86. Having a joint replaced from a birth defect is a bit different than having one replaced because you wore your good one out. I never HAD a good one-let's remember that. And, unless you have lived in constant pain 24/7, you have no idea how it feels to have it taken away in a 90 minute procedure. It's a MIRACLE. My body and it's level of health and fitness is healing me at the rate it should-what's good for me.
When I woke up from surgery (and after a couple hours of rest) I felt amazing...tired, but amazing. Plus, I had an amazing team of doctors and nurses who do this work every day, all day over 3000x per year. That too makes a huge difference.
So, you see, exercise IS medicine. If you take a day off class or a week or 2 for vacation you'll be just fine but if you takes months or years off, don't exercise and eat like crap, you will find yourself unhealthy, unfit and unprepared in the event YOU have to have a surgical procedure-be it planned or urgent.
J allowed me to wake from anesthesia with no after effects, it allowed me to get UP and use the bathroom only hours after surgery, it allowed me to eat breakfast the morning after my procedure when most patients are on liquid for a day or 2. It also allowed me to leave the hospital after 2 days and go directly home, go up my stairs after 1 night downstairs, not use ANY pain meds after my 2nd day home (and only use them 1x per day before that), drive after 5 days and get the VNA to 'fire' me after less than a week because, and I quote, "You could take care of ME!" It allows my physical therapist to work with me for a VERY short time (4 weeks, 2x per week) and send me on my way knowing my muscles are strong and ready.
So never underestimate the power of health and fitness. Do you have to be a marathon runner? No. Do you have to do an Ironman triathlon? No. All you have to do is commit to a program you love (might I suggest J) and come to class 3-5x per week. Eat well 5 out of 7 days, drink your water, get your rest and you too will hear what I hear almost every day now...
"How the hell are you better this FAST??"
It's really not a mirage or a trick folks and, no, I'm not PUSHING as hard as it might appear. I am listening carefully to my body, my heart, my doctors, my PT...and all together I know it's time, time for me to come back to the place I love, the place that makes my heart sing and my soul dance. You see, that's what I try to give you in every class-you may hear it as 'yelling' or my 'drill sargent' personality but it's passion for what I do and it's what has gotten me through. (Along with my AMAZING Mr. P&P, and Lilly, K and the kids and ALL my unbelieveable instructors.)
Find YOUR passion and your life will be everything you imagined and more.
I will SEE you in class.
Friday, August 27, 2010
Sunday, August 22, 2010
Full Circle Moment
Hi Everyone,
The family (Mr. P&P and Lilly) are taking a morning nap so I figured I'd blog...we had a nice family breakfast (and though I love being home on weekend mornings I cannot WAIT to get back to work!).
So, I always used to wonder exactly what Oprah meant about a 'full circle moment' and, this week, I think I was part of a great one...read on:
Once upon a time two friends opened a J Center and hoped it would grow. We started with just us 2 and LD (thank God for her) and looked for special folks in our classes who might become instructors on our team. We had our eye on one 20-something girl and talked in class about her going to a screening (where movement is watched for potential) and another 20-something girl asked if she could go too. M had great movement but I had honestly never seen her in anything bug a hug tee shirt-to the point I wasn't sure what figure was under there! But, I said...come on along!
Well, on that screening day we got TWO fabulous candidates-D and M. They both certified (our first set of twins) and went on to teach AMAZING classes, with M starting up our early AM classes from nothing! They grew (and have grown over the years) into nicely sized, wonderful classes with many devotees.
Years later M met Mr. F, with whom she had attended high school and admired from afar during school. Fate stepped in and we attended a wonderful wedding reception (they got married in Mexico) and happiness followed.
A hard personal journey and decision followed and M decided she needed to resign from J and focus on building her family. We understood completely, embraced her and let her go. As you know, if you really love someone you let them go when you need to. It was hard and we missed her but we supported her 1000%.
As M walked through a difficult time, we stayed in touch, shared the joys and sorrows with her and Mr. F and watched them evolve into a family of 4-one beautiful little boy and a surprise...a little girl. Frankie and Mia have made their family complete and we watched M smile and laugh again. (We will never forget Colin, William and Liliana!)
At the big J change was coming-we had 12 instructors but 2 needed to make a tough decision (like M before them to hang up their sneakers and focus on themselves and family). Again, we understood and thankfully had a new instructor coming up. Business was booming and, during this time, M checked in with us.
"How's it going? I heard there's a lot going on over there."
"Yep...hey, you wanna come back to teaching?"
"Sure, why not."
WHAT?!
I was shocked and happily surprised. I threw that line in that email in jest and boy am I glad I did.
So, we began a training unlike the one before. M went home to learn routines, we met a few times (sans pizza this time) and I had to get my bad hip replaced in the middle. She felt a little weird at first and the first time she practiced on stage I could see a TEENY bit of uneasiness. The next time I decided to put the mic on her and she was transformed back to the M I knew. It was amazing. I think I even said, "THERE'S M".
Friday was re-certification day.
M killed it. I bet she got the highest score of her workshop group.
In the next couple weeks she'll start teaching again, back on the stage and in the Center where it all started.
M got her groove back and she likes to say and I LOVE THAT.
And, it's super special for me in many ways...
First because one of my girls is BACK and that's the best compliment I could ever get.
Second because in the next couple weeks I, too, will get MY groove back and it's real special for me to do that at the same time as M.
Welcome home Mel, welcome home.
The family (Mr. P&P and Lilly) are taking a morning nap so I figured I'd blog...we had a nice family breakfast (and though I love being home on weekend mornings I cannot WAIT to get back to work!).
So, I always used to wonder exactly what Oprah meant about a 'full circle moment' and, this week, I think I was part of a great one...read on:
Once upon a time two friends opened a J Center and hoped it would grow. We started with just us 2 and LD (thank God for her) and looked for special folks in our classes who might become instructors on our team. We had our eye on one 20-something girl and talked in class about her going to a screening (where movement is watched for potential) and another 20-something girl asked if she could go too. M had great movement but I had honestly never seen her in anything bug a hug tee shirt-to the point I wasn't sure what figure was under there! But, I said...come on along!
Well, on that screening day we got TWO fabulous candidates-D and M. They both certified (our first set of twins) and went on to teach AMAZING classes, with M starting up our early AM classes from nothing! They grew (and have grown over the years) into nicely sized, wonderful classes with many devotees.
Years later M met Mr. F, with whom she had attended high school and admired from afar during school. Fate stepped in and we attended a wonderful wedding reception (they got married in Mexico) and happiness followed.
A hard personal journey and decision followed and M decided she needed to resign from J and focus on building her family. We understood completely, embraced her and let her go. As you know, if you really love someone you let them go when you need to. It was hard and we missed her but we supported her 1000%.
As M walked through a difficult time, we stayed in touch, shared the joys and sorrows with her and Mr. F and watched them evolve into a family of 4-one beautiful little boy and a surprise...a little girl. Frankie and Mia have made their family complete and we watched M smile and laugh again. (We will never forget Colin, William and Liliana!)
At the big J change was coming-we had 12 instructors but 2 needed to make a tough decision (like M before them to hang up their sneakers and focus on themselves and family). Again, we understood and thankfully had a new instructor coming up. Business was booming and, during this time, M checked in with us.
"How's it going? I heard there's a lot going on over there."
"Yep...hey, you wanna come back to teaching?"
"Sure, why not."
WHAT?!
I was shocked and happily surprised. I threw that line in that email in jest and boy am I glad I did.
So, we began a training unlike the one before. M went home to learn routines, we met a few times (sans pizza this time) and I had to get my bad hip replaced in the middle. She felt a little weird at first and the first time she practiced on stage I could see a TEENY bit of uneasiness. The next time I decided to put the mic on her and she was transformed back to the M I knew. It was amazing. I think I even said, "THERE'S M".
Friday was re-certification day.
M killed it. I bet she got the highest score of her workshop group.
In the next couple weeks she'll start teaching again, back on the stage and in the Center where it all started.
M got her groove back and she likes to say and I LOVE THAT.
And, it's super special for me in many ways...
First because one of my girls is BACK and that's the best compliment I could ever get.
Second because in the next couple weeks I, too, will get MY groove back and it's real special for me to do that at the same time as M.
Welcome home Mel, welcome home.
Friday, August 20, 2010
Random Thoughts for a Friday
Hi All,
Happy Friday!
Random, totally random:
-I have a unnatural annoyance with the Light and Fit and Activia yoghurt commercials. I find them DEEPLY annoying. Why? Light and Fit-I do not appreciate hearing/seeing someone SLURP anything, especially with a microphone amplifying it. Gross. Activia-here again, the current commercial with the couple in the park...the 'husband' is talking with his mouth full! AGAIN GROSS!
-Our local weather person on channel 7 needs a stylist. While I am no fashionplate I definitely would pull it together if I were on TV every day.
-If you work for the Chelms. Driving School please STOP driving around town with your students and have them go 20mph in areas where the speed limit is 30 or even 40. You will cause more accidents than you avoid and you make the students look like dorks and, BTW, so do you.
-If you are not feeling good about yourself, please do not passive-aggressively make comments during what should be a polite conversation, tearing me down. Green is not a good color on YOU it washes you out. If you see yourself in this statement cut it the F out. Work on YOURSELF and feel better about you. You have a great life so tearing people down 'with a smile' doesn't work-you're transparent and I see right through you so check yourself Boo.
-Little K is one of THE smartest people I know and she's not even 14 yet. We had some nice chats this week on the way to camp and all I have to say is WOW. She has insight and balance I would have paid to have at 23, much less 13. You go little K!
Happy Friday!
Random, totally random:
-I have a unnatural annoyance with the Light and Fit and Activia yoghurt commercials. I find them DEEPLY annoying. Why? Light and Fit-I do not appreciate hearing/seeing someone SLURP anything, especially with a microphone amplifying it. Gross. Activia-here again, the current commercial with the couple in the park...the 'husband' is talking with his mouth full! AGAIN GROSS!
-Our local weather person on channel 7 needs a stylist. While I am no fashionplate I definitely would pull it together if I were on TV every day.
-If you work for the Chelms. Driving School please STOP driving around town with your students and have them go 20mph in areas where the speed limit is 30 or even 40. You will cause more accidents than you avoid and you make the students look like dorks and, BTW, so do you.
-If you are not feeling good about yourself, please do not passive-aggressively make comments during what should be a polite conversation, tearing me down. Green is not a good color on YOU it washes you out. If you see yourself in this statement cut it the F out. Work on YOURSELF and feel better about you. You have a great life so tearing people down 'with a smile' doesn't work-you're transparent and I see right through you so check yourself Boo.
-Little K is one of THE smartest people I know and she's not even 14 yet. We had some nice chats this week on the way to camp and all I have to say is WOW. She has insight and balance I would have paid to have at 23, much less 13. You go little K!
Sunday, August 15, 2010
How it's going...
HI Everyone,
We hope you're all doing well and I personally want you all to know how much I miss seeing you in every class and dancing with you! It was 3 weeks since my procedure last Thursday, so we are now working on week 4...which means a doctor visit on Wednesday and, hopefully, clearance to go back to teaching Body Sculpt. Please cross your fingers, toes and anything else!
Physically I am doing very well. Yesterday was MWF's workshop practice and I did dance a good bit of it. I did about 1/2 of 6 routines and was able to skip longer than last week, step hop, scoot, traveling plie and heel hop. While that might not sound too exciting to you, it is to me. When you literally have a new body part it's a bit 'odd' because you don't know what it can do. I am assured by my doctors that it is built for impact but still...I had ZERO pain and literally almost cried for the fact that nothing hurt while I was moving. (My pain teaching before was, oh, a 15 out of 10-seriously, I'm not kidding.) Physical therapy ramps up this week where I'll be doing more on the ellipitical (boring) and leg presses, balance work and stretching. I'm also told there will be some serious massage of my incision, once the steri-strips come off (again, hopefully Wednesday). This will keep the muscles in that area limber and make sure they heal properly.
Mentally I am going stir crazy. I love being at the desk and seeing you all but I hate that I cannot just jump on the floor or stage and dance with you. And, I can tell you from current experience that taking a few weeks off STINKS so do not do it. Vacation is one thing (and so is medical leave of course) but just taking time off 'because'...uh, no. I have been out a little over 3 weeks and my stamina already needs work so I'm working on it day by day. Please realize that if you want to keep yourself healthy and fit you need to workout for your entire life. Again, vacations? Cool. Medical leave/family emergencies? Completely understandable. Just lazy? Uh, no, not cool for YOU. Even though mine is medical (and forced by the way), I feel it in my digestion, skin, mood...but I'm almost there and I keep that in mind.
I have practiced my whole set, put together a new Body Sculpt and Jazz class and I'm using weights for my upper body at home, as well as my ball for core work. The first time I got back on the ball and did 3 ab routines I could TELL how long I'd been idle. UGH. Now? It's better because I'm at it 5 days a week.
Crazy? No. I'm laser focused on getting back to dancing with you, pushing you, challenging you and doing what I love-teaching. It will sound hokey I'm sure but this is what I was called to do. So many things in my life brought me to this job and I do not take it lightly. It's a huge responsibility to run the Center, make sure it's perfect for you all and get up on stage and push the crap out of you to get a great workout. I love it. It's the best thing I ever chose to do in my life. I left a corporate career, a secretary, office, expense account...for the big J and I do not regret it for one second. So my 401k isn't as fat as it could be but who the hell cares! I get to do a job everyday that I love and I get to see how much it changes YOUR lives and there's nothing better than that. Between you all and my family I am truly happy and I thank you all for that.
Now I'd like to take moment of this blog and thank the following amazing individuals:
-K. You being my business partner and best friend made it possible for me to consider having this procedure and getting my life back. Knowing you were there gave me peace, thank you. And, it was great to have you a little K visit me in hospital!
-Mr. P&P. What can I say about Hubs? He pushed me to do this even though he knew I was scared and encouraged me every step of the way. I know he researched the whole thing (and didn't tell me, which I APPRECIATE because I don't want to know!) He has helped me shower, get dressed, has fed me and put up with my, uh, multiple meltdowns. He has patience I certainly do not have. He's the best.
-Lilly. She has been gentle when I was first home and now sticks by me, understanding I can't play with her as normal because of the crutches and restrictions. I get many snuggles and she is in full blown watch dog mode-anyone who comes near this house gets a loud bark! Momma loves you Lilly!
-KT,JF and JL. These 3 girls have had to change their own lives to cover all my classes and they all have done it (and are doing it) with grace, skill and energy. I know you're all busy with your full time jobs and lives and I cannot tell you how much I appreciate you all. Thank you SO much. I hope it won't be much longer and we can get back to our regular programming!
-LD,TD,LH,TM,KA,MB. I know though you aren't covering my classes that you have all also taken on more (especially LH) because of the shift in class coverage. Thank you for covering for each other, switching classes when needed and just being there to support us all. You are deeply appreciated.
-Class managers-thank you for stepping up to the plate, doing a bit extra while I've been out and also being so supportive and caring! You have made it possible to make sure the clients don't see much difference...and that is key.
To all of you clients who come to class, left cards in the box, brought me a gift....thank you. Every single one meant a lot to me and has helped me through!
So, please standby. The plan for my return to teaching is in place so don't miss a class, you never know what's going to happen!
We hope you're all doing well and I personally want you all to know how much I miss seeing you in every class and dancing with you! It was 3 weeks since my procedure last Thursday, so we are now working on week 4...which means a doctor visit on Wednesday and, hopefully, clearance to go back to teaching Body Sculpt. Please cross your fingers, toes and anything else!
Physically I am doing very well. Yesterday was MWF's workshop practice and I did dance a good bit of it. I did about 1/2 of 6 routines and was able to skip longer than last week, step hop, scoot, traveling plie and heel hop. While that might not sound too exciting to you, it is to me. When you literally have a new body part it's a bit 'odd' because you don't know what it can do. I am assured by my doctors that it is built for impact but still...I had ZERO pain and literally almost cried for the fact that nothing hurt while I was moving. (My pain teaching before was, oh, a 15 out of 10-seriously, I'm not kidding.) Physical therapy ramps up this week where I'll be doing more on the ellipitical (boring) and leg presses, balance work and stretching. I'm also told there will be some serious massage of my incision, once the steri-strips come off (again, hopefully Wednesday). This will keep the muscles in that area limber and make sure they heal properly.
Mentally I am going stir crazy. I love being at the desk and seeing you all but I hate that I cannot just jump on the floor or stage and dance with you. And, I can tell you from current experience that taking a few weeks off STINKS so do not do it. Vacation is one thing (and so is medical leave of course) but just taking time off 'because'...uh, no. I have been out a little over 3 weeks and my stamina already needs work so I'm working on it day by day. Please realize that if you want to keep yourself healthy and fit you need to workout for your entire life. Again, vacations? Cool. Medical leave/family emergencies? Completely understandable. Just lazy? Uh, no, not cool for YOU. Even though mine is medical (and forced by the way), I feel it in my digestion, skin, mood...but I'm almost there and I keep that in mind.
I have practiced my whole set, put together a new Body Sculpt and Jazz class and I'm using weights for my upper body at home, as well as my ball for core work. The first time I got back on the ball and did 3 ab routines I could TELL how long I'd been idle. UGH. Now? It's better because I'm at it 5 days a week.
Crazy? No. I'm laser focused on getting back to dancing with you, pushing you, challenging you and doing what I love-teaching. It will sound hokey I'm sure but this is what I was called to do. So many things in my life brought me to this job and I do not take it lightly. It's a huge responsibility to run the Center, make sure it's perfect for you all and get up on stage and push the crap out of you to get a great workout. I love it. It's the best thing I ever chose to do in my life. I left a corporate career, a secretary, office, expense account...for the big J and I do not regret it for one second. So my 401k isn't as fat as it could be but who the hell cares! I get to do a job everyday that I love and I get to see how much it changes YOUR lives and there's nothing better than that. Between you all and my family I am truly happy and I thank you all for that.
Now I'd like to take moment of this blog and thank the following amazing individuals:
-K. You being my business partner and best friend made it possible for me to consider having this procedure and getting my life back. Knowing you were there gave me peace, thank you. And, it was great to have you a little K visit me in hospital!
-Mr. P&P. What can I say about Hubs? He pushed me to do this even though he knew I was scared and encouraged me every step of the way. I know he researched the whole thing (and didn't tell me, which I APPRECIATE because I don't want to know!) He has helped me shower, get dressed, has fed me and put up with my, uh, multiple meltdowns. He has patience I certainly do not have. He's the best.
-Lilly. She has been gentle when I was first home and now sticks by me, understanding I can't play with her as normal because of the crutches and restrictions. I get many snuggles and she is in full blown watch dog mode-anyone who comes near this house gets a loud bark! Momma loves you Lilly!
-KT,JF and JL. These 3 girls have had to change their own lives to cover all my classes and they all have done it (and are doing it) with grace, skill and energy. I know you're all busy with your full time jobs and lives and I cannot tell you how much I appreciate you all. Thank you SO much. I hope it won't be much longer and we can get back to our regular programming!
-LD,TD,LH,TM,KA,MB. I know though you aren't covering my classes that you have all also taken on more (especially LH) because of the shift in class coverage. Thank you for covering for each other, switching classes when needed and just being there to support us all. You are deeply appreciated.
-Class managers-thank you for stepping up to the plate, doing a bit extra while I've been out and also being so supportive and caring! You have made it possible to make sure the clients don't see much difference...and that is key.
To all of you clients who come to class, left cards in the box, brought me a gift....thank you. Every single one meant a lot to me and has helped me through!
So, please standby. The plan for my return to teaching is in place so don't miss a class, you never know what's going to happen!
Thursday, August 12, 2010
And we wonder why...
Most people in the US are overweight?
Hi All,
I was driving to my first real PT appointment today (sidebar: it was SOOOO awesome to really move and exercise. I truly hate sitting still.) and I saw a lady on her riding lawn mower, mowing her postage stamp sized front lawn in Lowell. Honestly, the front yard was no bigger than a king sized bed and she was on a RIDING mower!
All reports say that 80% of America is overweight. Now, that sounds like a high number and, really, it could be a smaller number. I found out that researchers call people and ask their height and weight which is clearly NOT the most accurate measurement! If you look around at any mall you'll see that there are many, many folks who are leading unhealthy lives.
This has to change.
Folks need to STOP using riding lawnmowers for such a small yard. They need to stop spending 20 minutes driving around the parking lot looking for a 'close' spot when walking from across the lot will do just fine. Folks need to look at what food they eat and just cut down a little bit...you don't have to change the world of your diet, just cut down and think about it now and again. Folks need to move more...walk around the block, bike with the kids, walk at lunch with your co-workers for even 15 minutes.
The reality of the situation is that, for a lot of people, being lazy is just easier. I hate to say it that way but it's true. Oh and I could be lazy right now myself but it's not my style and I know it's important for me to move, not only to get back to work, but to keep MY body healthy and fit for my own life too. I challenge myself so that I can feel good, fit into my clothes and live a long, healthy life and, more importantly, take care of all of you!
So, please don't take that 'lazy' word wrong. I think we all have to face things head on in our lives-I was lazy once too (and 80lbs heavier) and I did just take the easy way out. But, if I hadn't gotten fit and made sure to live a healthier life each day, I never would have been THIS successful with my surgery. (And my surgery was always in my future, due to the birth defect.) I would have had a really tough time rehabbing my hip and probably ended up being even heavier in the end. The big J saved my life then, it saved me by keeping me mobile and healthy and it saving me again by helping me rehab so quickly now.
Keep this in mind if, day after day after day, you don't want to exercise. (And I don't mean a day off here or there or a vacation...so get your thong out of a knot.) 3-5x per week for life...that's what you need...so I hope to see you in class1
Hi All,
I was driving to my first real PT appointment today (sidebar: it was SOOOO awesome to really move and exercise. I truly hate sitting still.) and I saw a lady on her riding lawn mower, mowing her postage stamp sized front lawn in Lowell. Honestly, the front yard was no bigger than a king sized bed and she was on a RIDING mower!
All reports say that 80% of America is overweight. Now, that sounds like a high number and, really, it could be a smaller number. I found out that researchers call people and ask their height and weight which is clearly NOT the most accurate measurement! If you look around at any mall you'll see that there are many, many folks who are leading unhealthy lives.
This has to change.
Folks need to STOP using riding lawnmowers for such a small yard. They need to stop spending 20 minutes driving around the parking lot looking for a 'close' spot when walking from across the lot will do just fine. Folks need to look at what food they eat and just cut down a little bit...you don't have to change the world of your diet, just cut down and think about it now and again. Folks need to move more...walk around the block, bike with the kids, walk at lunch with your co-workers for even 15 minutes.
The reality of the situation is that, for a lot of people, being lazy is just easier. I hate to say it that way but it's true. Oh and I could be lazy right now myself but it's not my style and I know it's important for me to move, not only to get back to work, but to keep MY body healthy and fit for my own life too. I challenge myself so that I can feel good, fit into my clothes and live a long, healthy life and, more importantly, take care of all of you!
So, please don't take that 'lazy' word wrong. I think we all have to face things head on in our lives-I was lazy once too (and 80lbs heavier) and I did just take the easy way out. But, if I hadn't gotten fit and made sure to live a healthier life each day, I never would have been THIS successful with my surgery. (And my surgery was always in my future, due to the birth defect.) I would have had a really tough time rehabbing my hip and probably ended up being even heavier in the end. The big J saved my life then, it saved me by keeping me mobile and healthy and it saving me again by helping me rehab so quickly now.
Keep this in mind if, day after day after day, you don't want to exercise. (And I don't mean a day off here or there or a vacation...so get your thong out of a knot.) 3-5x per week for life...that's what you need...so I hope to see you in class1
Monday, August 9, 2010
Exercise is medicine...
HI Everyone,
I hope you enjoyed the weekend! Since I'm about 70% mobile at this point, our weekends are pretty quiet here at Camp P&P...thankfully we do have a pool and we enjoyed opening up the house and letting the NON-humid air in all weekend!
We are preparing to do some more updating to the Center, so Mr. P&P and I (along with Lilly so she could play in the big room) went to the Center and looked at the new carpet tiles we'll be installing in the foyer (I needed to order more) and did a few errands...nothing exciting! This coming weekend we may go out for dinner, crutches and all! UGH.
It's been great being at the desk again and I look forward to seeing more of you each day! Thank you for all the kind wishes, encouragement and class attendance!
You know how I'm always telling you that you lose what you've done in class in a short 6 weeks? Well, it's true and it starts within 2 weeks-how do I know? Well, as you know, I'm recuperating from hip replacement surgery, due to a birth defect. The Big J (according to my surgeons) has kept me fit, healthy and moving even though I should technically have been handicapped most of my life! EXERCISE has kept me fully functioning (and doing it well) and you cannot beat that.
In the last 2 weeks, it's been frustrating for me because I can only walk (although I'll be increasing that this week and adding in outpatient PT) and workout with weights/tube for my upper body. I eat well (all organic meats, fruits and veggies) and get my rest. But you know what? Without the workouts I'm seeing a difference in my skin, mood, 'water works' and generally how I feel.
Now, this is a forced time out (definitely NOT MY IDEA) and I know I need to rest to heal properly and I am doing that but it just goes to show you-when we tell you that you need to exercise 3-5x per week to maintain your good health we are not kidding!
Both K and I have now had to be out due to health issues...she had a tough pregnancy with Little Mista and could not work for the bulk of the 9 months (doesn't mean she's unhealthy-she was protecting her baby and herself) and I, of course, had this birth defect (again-very healthy person here with a condition NOT caused by my profession). We both know the benefit of exercise in both mind and body, especially because of our forced time out.
So, while you're trying to eat well, going to the doctor, taking any meds you need...remember that you need to MOVE YOUR BODY and get your cardio, strength and stretch in and WE do that for you!
We know the summer is waning and everyone wants to get those last weeks of sun and fun-but you won't be able to enjoy the time if you're not feeling your best so mark those calendars to fit in your workouts-you will be SOOOOOOOOO glad you did!
See you in class!
I hope you enjoyed the weekend! Since I'm about 70% mobile at this point, our weekends are pretty quiet here at Camp P&P...thankfully we do have a pool and we enjoyed opening up the house and letting the NON-humid air in all weekend!
We are preparing to do some more updating to the Center, so Mr. P&P and I (along with Lilly so she could play in the big room) went to the Center and looked at the new carpet tiles we'll be installing in the foyer (I needed to order more) and did a few errands...nothing exciting! This coming weekend we may go out for dinner, crutches and all! UGH.
It's been great being at the desk again and I look forward to seeing more of you each day! Thank you for all the kind wishes, encouragement and class attendance!
You know how I'm always telling you that you lose what you've done in class in a short 6 weeks? Well, it's true and it starts within 2 weeks-how do I know? Well, as you know, I'm recuperating from hip replacement surgery, due to a birth defect. The Big J (according to my surgeons) has kept me fit, healthy and moving even though I should technically have been handicapped most of my life! EXERCISE has kept me fully functioning (and doing it well) and you cannot beat that.
In the last 2 weeks, it's been frustrating for me because I can only walk (although I'll be increasing that this week and adding in outpatient PT) and workout with weights/tube for my upper body. I eat well (all organic meats, fruits and veggies) and get my rest. But you know what? Without the workouts I'm seeing a difference in my skin, mood, 'water works' and generally how I feel.
Now, this is a forced time out (definitely NOT MY IDEA) and I know I need to rest to heal properly and I am doing that but it just goes to show you-when we tell you that you need to exercise 3-5x per week to maintain your good health we are not kidding!
Both K and I have now had to be out due to health issues...she had a tough pregnancy with Little Mista and could not work for the bulk of the 9 months (doesn't mean she's unhealthy-she was protecting her baby and herself) and I, of course, had this birth defect (again-very healthy person here with a condition NOT caused by my profession). We both know the benefit of exercise in both mind and body, especially because of our forced time out.
So, while you're trying to eat well, going to the doctor, taking any meds you need...remember that you need to MOVE YOUR BODY and get your cardio, strength and stretch in and WE do that for you!
We know the summer is waning and everyone wants to get those last weeks of sun and fun-but you won't be able to enjoy the time if you're not feeling your best so mark those calendars to fit in your workouts-you will be SOOOOOOOOO glad you did!
See you in class!
Thursday, August 5, 2010
Something good!
HI Everyone,
During my recuperation, boredom does set in at times but I'm definitely getting better and keeping myself busy while still getting the rest I'm told I need to get. I certainly do not want to compromise my recovery because I want to get back to seeing all of YOU and teaching soon!
Anyway, today I was watching the Today Show (I've watched it since I was a kid) and there was a segment that I thought was really neat. (Do people say 'really neat' anymore?)
It was about Operation Beautiful. You can find their website at www.operationbeautiful.com. This woman decided that woman get too many negative messages in the world (sound familiar? I think I say this every class I teach...) and she just decided to start leaving post-it notes, say, on public bathroom mirrors, or in other places women congregate, saying things like:
"You're beautiful"
"Not a size 2? Who cares, you're awesome!"
Any uplifting message basically...
I think this is the best idea I've ever heard. (She also wrote a book of the same name if you need some reading material this summer.) I mean...I know how I'd feel if I visited a public restroom and found a post-it on the mirror (or back of the stall door) with an uplifting message...it would make my day.
It's such a simple idea, yet can have so much impact.
Honestly, that's why we have our instructors at the desk as you arrive and our staff greets you and asks how you are, etc? We CARE about you and we want you to feel special every single time you come into our Center. It comes from when WE were clients and we would go to certain Centers and no one would say HI or talk to us or anything...we decided we wanted our clients to feel special, cared for...right from the moment you come in. It's like we stick a post-it on the door saying, "HI! How was your day...so glad you're here!"
And we hope you feel that from us!
Anyway, here's a challenge for you all...
Take a post-it note with you and put some short, uplifting message on it-then leave it somewhere...how about on the drive-thru speaker at DD? Or stick it to an apple at the grocery store? Or on the window of a car as you pass it on your way into the mall?
I think in these times of economic hardship and stress, performing a small act of kindness and enhancing the life of someone else can help us ALL feel better!
Have a great day!
During my recuperation, boredom does set in at times but I'm definitely getting better and keeping myself busy while still getting the rest I'm told I need to get. I certainly do not want to compromise my recovery because I want to get back to seeing all of YOU and teaching soon!
Anyway, today I was watching the Today Show (I've watched it since I was a kid) and there was a segment that I thought was really neat. (Do people say 'really neat' anymore?)
It was about Operation Beautiful. You can find their website at www.operationbeautiful.com. This woman decided that woman get too many negative messages in the world (sound familiar? I think I say this every class I teach...) and she just decided to start leaving post-it notes, say, on public bathroom mirrors, or in other places women congregate, saying things like:
"You're beautiful"
"Not a size 2? Who cares, you're awesome!"
Any uplifting message basically...
I think this is the best idea I've ever heard. (She also wrote a book of the same name if you need some reading material this summer.) I mean...I know how I'd feel if I visited a public restroom and found a post-it on the mirror (or back of the stall door) with an uplifting message...it would make my day.
It's such a simple idea, yet can have so much impact.
Honestly, that's why we have our instructors at the desk as you arrive and our staff greets you and asks how you are, etc? We CARE about you and we want you to feel special every single time you come into our Center. It comes from when WE were clients and we would go to certain Centers and no one would say HI or talk to us or anything...we decided we wanted our clients to feel special, cared for...right from the moment you come in. It's like we stick a post-it on the door saying, "HI! How was your day...so glad you're here!"
And we hope you feel that from us!
Anyway, here's a challenge for you all...
Take a post-it note with you and put some short, uplifting message on it-then leave it somewhere...how about on the drive-thru speaker at DD? Or stick it to an apple at the grocery store? Or on the window of a car as you pass it on your way into the mall?
I think in these times of economic hardship and stress, performing a small act of kindness and enhancing the life of someone else can help us ALL feel better!
Have a great day!
Tuesday, August 3, 2010
And now, back at the Center!
HI Everyone,
I hope you're enjoying this weather-we've had many days now with low humidity and nice temps. Summer is flying by and it's already August-hard to believe!
I did pop into the Center on Saturday to see folks and get monthend done but Monday was my first day back, working at the desk. I am enjoying seeing folks, hearing the girls teaching the new routines (and deciding what I want to learn while I'm recuperating) and getting things organized behind the desk once again.
I do have to say it's really hard not teaching. I've taught, practically every day, for the last 15 years with no more than 5 days off. (This could be why I completely wore my displaced hip socket flat...) I love it, it's like breathing to me and I miss it terribly. I know I need to rest, especially with the bone graft and I will-I certainly DO NOT want to mess up my recovery but it's tough folks, really tough.
I want to thank you all for being so complimentary and supportive of the girls as they cover my classes. I know they all appreciate it and working really hard putting together those wonderful classes for you!
So far as 'the hip' goes...doing well. I have no pain and am excited to start real PT this week. Really I need to get my quad stretched properly so that I can continue re-learning to walk. Using the crutches is a huge PITA but I know I need to. I practice walking, doing my exercises and stretching at home and get some rest in too. I have a doctor appointment mid-August and I hope to be cleared to go back to teaching Body Sculpt at the time...I'll keep you posted!
Have a great day and I hope to see you all in class!
I hope you're enjoying this weather-we've had many days now with low humidity and nice temps. Summer is flying by and it's already August-hard to believe!
I did pop into the Center on Saturday to see folks and get monthend done but Monday was my first day back, working at the desk. I am enjoying seeing folks, hearing the girls teaching the new routines (and deciding what I want to learn while I'm recuperating) and getting things organized behind the desk once again.
I do have to say it's really hard not teaching. I've taught, practically every day, for the last 15 years with no more than 5 days off. (This could be why I completely wore my displaced hip socket flat...) I love it, it's like breathing to me and I miss it terribly. I know I need to rest, especially with the bone graft and I will-I certainly DO NOT want to mess up my recovery but it's tough folks, really tough.
I want to thank you all for being so complimentary and supportive of the girls as they cover my classes. I know they all appreciate it and working really hard putting together those wonderful classes for you!
So far as 'the hip' goes...doing well. I have no pain and am excited to start real PT this week. Really I need to get my quad stretched properly so that I can continue re-learning to walk. Using the crutches is a huge PITA but I know I need to. I practice walking, doing my exercises and stretching at home and get some rest in too. I have a doctor appointment mid-August and I hope to be cleared to go back to teaching Body Sculpt at the time...I'll keep you posted!
Have a great day and I hope to see you all in class!
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