Hi All,
It's a cool, gray out and, honestly, I still have this damn cold but I am also realizing there are so many good things happening that I just can't be sad about the weather or the fact that if I blow my nose again it may fall OFF!
I guess I've never done things the 'conventional' way-you know those people who grow up in normal families, both parents stay married forever, 2 sets of grandparents who are still alive when you graduate college, childhood friends around...find a nice guy, get married, satisfying career, buy a house, have kids...
I, however, like to do things the unconventional way...
My family? Not so normal, although I do have some wonderful people in my family whom I love and wish I could see more. I had 4 sets of grandparents (from divorces), no childhood friends (although thanks to FB, I'm finding them!) and I got married way too young the first time, got divorced, couldn't have kids, got laid off many times in the 80's and lived in a nice, but tiny apartment. Only in my 30's have I found the happiness and contentment most others find a bit sooner-a happy marriage, a wonderful home and a career that is perfect for me...oh and kids.
Kids you say? I thought you said you couldn't have kids? I can't...
When I was in my 20's I went to a fortune telling party at a friend's home. I've always been interested in things like that (no, I don't live by my horoscope, don't worry!) and it was a fun night with friends...
The fortune teller told everyone when they'd have kids, how many, what kind of guy they'd marry...
When she got to me (I was married at the time-first time around) she was more, shall we say, less than positive?
She told me one day I'd live near water, that I would be married 2x and that I would be surrounded by kids I love but never have any of my own.
I felt bad for my friends since I had to tell them that stuff and I could see their faces where they were all telling happy stories and laughing about the future, I'm not sure they knew how to deal with what the lady told me but we all moved on from there.
So, fast forward a decade or so from THAT crystal ball and I am divorced, living in my cute little apartment in Westford (overlooking my landlord's pool) and I am single, teaching J and loving it. K is about to have little K (kid I love but not my own). A year or two later I meet Mr. P&P, we buy a condo (which overlooks the POOL) and we have 2 canine kids (Ally now is heaven). But wait, am I surrounded by kids? Hmmmm....
Yes, yes, I am. I am surrounded by the 23 (almost 24 as one just started in the screening process this weekend and one just certified this weekend) women I have mentored through J certification. Yes, some of them are older than I am or my same age and some are just a few years younger, but to me, they are my daughters. There are a few I am not in contact with any longer and that saddens me but I hope they are happy and healthy...you know, disfunction, like any normal family!
The ones that surround me every day: LD, LH, JF, JL, KT, KA, MB, MF, TD and TM...along with a few I NOW get to be around that are 'new to our family'-EFP, SH, LL, MO, TD2-well, they're all my daughters. Is it the same? Of course not. Is it just as special? To me it is.
When someone (EFP) tells you that you inspired them to do something special for themselves it's amazing.
When someone hugs you and tells you that your listening kept them sane through a crazy time it's gratifying. (JF)
When someone tells you that they want to be like you-it's unbelievably humbling.
This is especially true for me, someone who can't have kids and just figured my legacy would go with me when I am gone one day (knock on wood after I turn 100).
When I look around I realize my legacy is all the women that I have helped and mentored so they can go out and touch the lives of the folks in their classes...and the two canine daughters Mr. P&P love and who also touch people.
And that, hopefully, what I gave will continue to be given through them and everyone they touch, mentor or help in the future.
I guess it's always when I'm feeling the LEAST lucky that someone or something shows me how lucky I truly AM and I deeply appreciate that!
Monday, November 22, 2010
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Do you love pocketbooks (handbags)?
Hi All,
If so, here are the pics of handbags of mine that have been lovingly cared for and I would like to find them a good home(s). Please email me or comment here for price info. They are Coach, BCBG, Kate Spade and D&B and I will let each go for LESS THAN $100!
Great gifts for you or someone you love!
Pics are below!
If so, here are the pics of handbags of mine that have been lovingly cared for and I would like to find them a good home(s). Please email me or comment here for price info. They are Coach, BCBG, Kate Spade and D&B and I will let each go for LESS THAN $100!
Great gifts for you or someone you love!
Pics are below!
Monday, November 8, 2010
Promises, promises...excuses, excuses
Hi Everyone,
Red alert: winter is here! UGH. (Do you think they named Uggs 'uggs' after UGH for winter? Probably not...)
Honestly, I hate it. Sorry. The getting dark early, the wind, the rain, the snow...I can do without it all. But, I live in New England so I tolerate....barely.
The big J allows me to keep my sanity during this season and to (hopefully) bring light, fun and fitness to folks when it's tough to get outside!
So...the title of this blog post?
We all promise ourselves we're going to eat better and exercise each January 1. Even if you do not make 'resolutions', you silently hope that this will be THE YEAR that you commit to regular exercise and keeping an eye on what you eat. Then, invariably, the excuses begin...
I was reminded of this rollercoaster by the latest Tufts Health Plan ads on TV-I love them. There's a couple who ask each other, "Did you workout today?" Their answers include:
1. I missed the cat
2. I forgot my ponytail holder
3. My Mom called
4. I don't think I need it today
5. I forgot my sneakers
What excuses do YOU make for not coming to class? I used to make ALL sorts of excuses (the 5 years I took off the big J to gain 89lbs!) so I want you to challenge yourselves NOT to make excuses this season....like these:
1. I'm tired (regular exercise GIVES you energy and while we all need to rest now and again, if you are 'tired' for a whole week it's time to get your a** back to class)
2. I'm busy (uh, who's NOT busy?). Are you too busy to shower or brush your teeth? I certainly hope to hell not. Taking care of yourself MUST be a priority and if you're doing THAT much holiday shopping and partying, we need to talk!
3. It's so dark out so early I just want to go home and get in my PJ's. Really? Well those PJ's are NOT going to fit as you sit there, butt expanding, missing class after class. Pack your workout clothes, take them to work and come directly to class-or do an errand if you're a bit early for class (maybe stop at any of the wonderful shops near our Center and knock ONE item off your holiday shopping list) and then come on over.
4. I'm so depressed, I don't feel like moving! You may have (and this is serious) SADD. This is a disorder wherein you are affected by the lack of light, potentially making you feel sad, depressed, tired, agitated...ask the ones you love and if you feel this is you-GET HELP. Mr. P&P has it (really) so I got him one of this sunlight lamps for his desk at work. It puts it on about 15 minutes per day and it really makes a huge difference in his mood. Please check out Amazon's site and search 'sun lamp'. The desktop model I got for Mr. P&P was less than $40, comes with a travel case. You could have it on your kitchen counter while doing dishes, on your vanity while getting ready for work (especially if you have to leave the house in the dark) or even when you're getting ready for bed. It only takes 10-15 minutes of having the light on you (you do not stare at it, it has to be aimed at your face) to help you feel better. You could even have it on the side table while you're watching TV.
5. Oh screw it, the holidays are here, I'll work on better eating and exercising NEXT year. I want to enjoy the holidays. You CAN enjoy the holidays and STILL re-focus on your exercise and eating routines! Do not give up! Make SMALL changes and you'll see big results by January. Come to class at least 2x per week. Check out our 6am classes on Tuesday,Wednesday, Thursday or Friday. It's light now at that time, 30 minute class and you're set for the day! Already at work that early? How about 7:30pm Tuesday or Thursday? You've got 31 classes a week to choose from-NO excuses!
Uh, listen, I can come to class no problem but FORGET watching what I eat! I want to indulge and I deserve it! Ok, fine. But when you're not partying it up with family, friends or co-workers, how about eating breakfast? (And NOT the latest holiday donut from DD!) How about swapping soda for water while at work? How about remembering alcoholic drinks HAVE CALORIES AND FAT? Can you still HAVE them? Of course you can. Stop making it 'all or nothing'. And, the old reminder to NOT go to a party starving is true. Yes, eat the canapes, appetizers, desserts...just have a healthy snack before you leave so you're not shoveling those bacon wrapped scallops into your mouth like a Dyson vacuum!
So there. Just have a quick, healthy snack before a party (an apple with peanut butter, a handful of granola...a yoghurt) and drink a bottle of water in the car on the way. You'll get there and be able to VISIT with your friends/family without focusing on the chocolate fountain and you'll also be hydrated well for any drinks you have.
So, as you can see, you CAN keep your promises to yourself and reduce the excuses without feeling like you're denying yourself fun and treats.
Pat yourself on the back for every workout and every good choice (no matter how small) you make.
The only promise that matters is the one you make to yourself!
Red alert: winter is here! UGH. (Do you think they named Uggs 'uggs' after UGH for winter? Probably not...)
Honestly, I hate it. Sorry. The getting dark early, the wind, the rain, the snow...I can do without it all. But, I live in New England so I tolerate....barely.
The big J allows me to keep my sanity during this season and to (hopefully) bring light, fun and fitness to folks when it's tough to get outside!
So...the title of this blog post?
We all promise ourselves we're going to eat better and exercise each January 1. Even if you do not make 'resolutions', you silently hope that this will be THE YEAR that you commit to regular exercise and keeping an eye on what you eat. Then, invariably, the excuses begin...
I was reminded of this rollercoaster by the latest Tufts Health Plan ads on TV-I love them. There's a couple who ask each other, "Did you workout today?" Their answers include:
1. I missed the cat
2. I forgot my ponytail holder
3. My Mom called
4. I don't think I need it today
5. I forgot my sneakers
What excuses do YOU make for not coming to class? I used to make ALL sorts of excuses (the 5 years I took off the big J to gain 89lbs!) so I want you to challenge yourselves NOT to make excuses this season....like these:
1. I'm tired (regular exercise GIVES you energy and while we all need to rest now and again, if you are 'tired' for a whole week it's time to get your a** back to class)
2. I'm busy (uh, who's NOT busy?). Are you too busy to shower or brush your teeth? I certainly hope to hell not. Taking care of yourself MUST be a priority and if you're doing THAT much holiday shopping and partying, we need to talk!
3. It's so dark out so early I just want to go home and get in my PJ's. Really? Well those PJ's are NOT going to fit as you sit there, butt expanding, missing class after class. Pack your workout clothes, take them to work and come directly to class-or do an errand if you're a bit early for class (maybe stop at any of the wonderful shops near our Center and knock ONE item off your holiday shopping list) and then come on over.
4. I'm so depressed, I don't feel like moving! You may have (and this is serious) SADD. This is a disorder wherein you are affected by the lack of light, potentially making you feel sad, depressed, tired, agitated...ask the ones you love and if you feel this is you-GET HELP. Mr. P&P has it (really) so I got him one of this sunlight lamps for his desk at work. It puts it on about 15 minutes per day and it really makes a huge difference in his mood. Please check out Amazon's site and search 'sun lamp'. The desktop model I got for Mr. P&P was less than $40, comes with a travel case. You could have it on your kitchen counter while doing dishes, on your vanity while getting ready for work (especially if you have to leave the house in the dark) or even when you're getting ready for bed. It only takes 10-15 minutes of having the light on you (you do not stare at it, it has to be aimed at your face) to help you feel better. You could even have it on the side table while you're watching TV.
5. Oh screw it, the holidays are here, I'll work on better eating and exercising NEXT year. I want to enjoy the holidays. You CAN enjoy the holidays and STILL re-focus on your exercise and eating routines! Do not give up! Make SMALL changes and you'll see big results by January. Come to class at least 2x per week. Check out our 6am classes on Tuesday,Wednesday, Thursday or Friday. It's light now at that time, 30 minute class and you're set for the day! Already at work that early? How about 7:30pm Tuesday or Thursday? You've got 31 classes a week to choose from-NO excuses!
Uh, listen, I can come to class no problem but FORGET watching what I eat! I want to indulge and I deserve it! Ok, fine. But when you're not partying it up with family, friends or co-workers, how about eating breakfast? (And NOT the latest holiday donut from DD!) How about swapping soda for water while at work? How about remembering alcoholic drinks HAVE CALORIES AND FAT? Can you still HAVE them? Of course you can. Stop making it 'all or nothing'. And, the old reminder to NOT go to a party starving is true. Yes, eat the canapes, appetizers, desserts...just have a healthy snack before you leave so you're not shoveling those bacon wrapped scallops into your mouth like a Dyson vacuum!
So there. Just have a quick, healthy snack before a party (an apple with peanut butter, a handful of granola...a yoghurt) and drink a bottle of water in the car on the way. You'll get there and be able to VISIT with your friends/family without focusing on the chocolate fountain and you'll also be hydrated well for any drinks you have.
So, as you can see, you CAN keep your promises to yourself and reduce the excuses without feeling like you're denying yourself fun and treats.
Pat yourself on the back for every workout and every good choice (no matter how small) you make.
The only promise that matters is the one you make to yourself!
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