Healthy Living

Since I see myself on a daily basis I don't realize the progress I've made. The first photo was taken in 2010 and I was probably about 155 lbs. The 2nd photo was taken a couple weeks ago and that morning I was at 131. The last photo of my back was taken yesterday at 132 lbs. Even when I'm trying on clothes I'm still surprised by the sizes I'm fitting into. I've been on this Beachbody journey for over 80 days. I think after the first couple of months I realized I craved the healthy life style. I enjoy the meals I eat and I feel like I'm truly fueling my body with what it needs. I love my morning workouts. I'm still putting my workout clothes out the night before so when I wake up it's the first thing I see. I'm not sure when I changed and really became addicted to healthy foods and exercise. Not in an obsessive way but I love the way I feel. I'm not tired, I have energy, I feel great, and I love how I fit in my new smaller clothes. Beach body now has an app called the Body Board app for people who are also doing these workouts and drinking shakeology. I truly enjoy it because I can post my daily workout selfies and I get to see other people doing the same. It is so encouraging to see so many people striving to live this heathy lifestyle as well.
Last weekend we went out of town and I enjoyed some beer, wine, pizza, pretzels, and desserts. However I also worked out and continued to drink my water. I thought for sure when I got home I'd be 5 lbs heavier, well I was actually 1 lb lighter!!! I was very pleasantly surprised. I started a new program that focuses more on lifting weights and she always says muscles burns fat as well as speeds up my metabolism. I think I finally found my balance. If I really want an ice cream, I have one but I'm conscious of the calories and try not to go crazy. I've noticed when I do indulge I feel really sick afterwards. I'm guessing thats a good and bad thing. It makes me indulge less and less for sure.
Thats my update for now!! Happy and healthy mama signing out :-)

Missing the Moment

So the lady being pointed out is the one individual without a cell phone who is enjoying the moment rather than recording it. I felt a little bit like this when we went to our first Luau in Maui. I just wanted to enjoy the show. However as I looked around 95% of the audience had their selfie sticks, iPads, and cameras out. A person at our table had an iPad and didn't bother to turn the flash off, so every time they took a photo the entire table lit up! Are we ruining our own entertainment? Don't get me wrong I like to take pictures too but this seemed a bit too much. And lets be real are you really going to print these photos from this show? I noticed one of the many photos people were taking were terrible, dark & fuzzy. Another guy took a bad photo then spent 5 minutes trying to fix it by editing. Hey guy you just missed the last incredible dance the performers did, but hope you fix that crappy photo you can look at next week!
We had an amazing vacation and I decided to try something new. I didn't post on Facebook the whole week, because I know how I am. I'll want to see what people said and how many people liked my photo. So instead I decided to do a shared photo album. At the end of the week I posted the album so everyone could see all the photos I had taken. It really helped me enjoy the moments I was in. I snorkeled with my son and pilot and didn't take any photos. We held hands while swimming around, my heart was so full being together with my family and doing something incredible together. We zip lined and I didn't take any photos. I left my phone in the car. Our guides were hilarious and my stomach definitely hurt by the end because I was laughing almost the whole time. The smiles on my family's face was something I didn't want to miss. The best part is the zip lining company took photos for us and I was able to purchase them before we left on a CD. Spending a week together and being disconnected was wonderful. My son is 9 and I'm not sure how much longer we are going to be the cool parents. So now is the time to enjoy each smile, each hug, each moment he tells us we are the best.
Next time you pick up the phone to record or take a picture, is it something you'd enjoy more without that photo or recording?

Quick Results

I'd say I'm like most Americans and when I start something I want to have results right away. After my first 3 weeks I was ready to give up because I didn't see the results I was looking for, but what I failed to realize is it takes time to get the body you want. I read online that it takes 4 weeks to see change, 8 weeks for your friends and family to notice, and 12 weeks for the world to see. It may seem like a long time but honestly I just take it one day at a time. This morning I weighed in at 132 and I've lost 2 inches off my hips. 7 pound weight loss may not seem like a lot but when I started I was wearing a size 8. All of my jeans and shorts are falling off of me. I had to buy size 4 shorts the other day. I'm in between a 4 & 6 right now!! Which honestly just seems crazy to me. Especially since I'm only doing 30 minute workouts a day and I don't feel like I'm depriving myself when it comes to food. This is the smallest I've been in over 10 years.

My cousin came to visit last weekend, we mostly ate meals at the house but we did go out for one lunch. I had wine, beer, and some treats over the weekend. It didn't derail my plan and we worked out together while she was here. Did I mention I feel amazing?!
My Facebook group really inspires me to be a role model but to also be honest with my daily food intake. I'm starting to see results in my group as well. People are working out and being mindful of what they are eating. I have to say I hate dieting because I really do. This isn't about a diet, this is about being healthy and sustaining a healthy lifestyle. I know I'm not going to give up wine for the rest of my life but I can have it in moderation. I LOVE food and the foods I'm eating now are clean. The treats my cousin made were from scratch with real ingredients and they are AMAZING!! But I am pacing myself and I use one of my daily carbs for my treat.

Some of the tricks I do to help me stay on track with exercise include, laying out my workout clothes at night so when I wake up its the first thing I see. I exercise in the morning before my mind & body realize what I'm doing. I take daily selfies which help me see the progress I've made.

Their are so many websites online that have 21 day fix meals as well as the tools to help you get started. I'm all about sharing the information for free because their are just too many tools out there that are available to you. Including free workouts on youtube. Here is a great link I found last week that has all the information in one place.
http://formerchubbyguy.com/21-day-fix-the-ultimate-meal-guide

If you have any questions, please feel free to ask me, I'm happy to share!!!

Week 1 (Again)

I took this picture yesterday. The big smile on my face is because I realized that my muscles are actually getting shredded. Not sure when that happened but I was pretty happy about it. That morning I weighed myself and I was at 133.8. I checked my phone and on March 2nd I weighed 139, so in exactly one month I had lost 5.2 lbs. Just when I was thinking that dialing in my nutrition and working out wasn't really doing much, I figured out that it was. I feel amazing, eating healthy and exercising makes me happy and why would I stop something that makes me happy? I also couldn't work out for a week because of my back and having a cold so I just concentrated on my nutrition. I've worked out the last 3 days and I was so glad to be able to get back on track. Another decision I made today was to start my own private group on Facebook. If I could get motivated by mostly strangers on a daily basis, wouldn't it be even more fun to do this with people I knew? This past week I continued to write down a daily food log, not for anyone in particular, just for myself. I used the 21 day fix app on my phone to record my daily food intake. I did have a planned splurge meal last night, pizza, wine, & salad. I only had one medium slice and a big salad. Where I kind of lost it was with the garlic knots, I can't remember how many I had and I only had 2 glasses of wine.  But I knew that would be my one splurge meal for the week. This morning I was back on track with my 30 minute workout and planned nutrition for the day.

I invited several of my friends and family to join my private Facebook. I'm excited to inspire others on this plan. Using the information I've learned and free tools online. I believe the Vega One all-in- one nutritional shake works just as good as the Shakeology did for me. I mix it with a banana, unsweetened vanilla almond milk, PB2, and ice. I've also made it with mixed strawberries & blueberries. I haven't had any sugar cravings so I'm attributing that to the daily shake I drink. I wouldn't categorize it as a meal replacement, I have it after a workout or for a snack.

We leave for Maui in 15 days, I'm excited this week to do a little clothes shopping, and maybe even buy a new bikini. What I love is that because I feel so good about myself it makes me a better mom and wife. I share my healthy lifestyle with my family every day. The pilot loves the meals I've been making and no more dreaded "What's for dinner?" conversations. I'm sure you guys know what i'm talking about. I'll continue to keep you posted on this journey of mine and if you're interested in joining my free group, just let me know. Keep in mind though I do ask you to dedicate 30 minutes a day to exercise 5 days a week and healthy eating. But if your ready to do that, then I'm ready to help!

What's Next

On Easter Sunday I had a great meal. After a while though, I felt like I was getting a little bit out of control, lots of candy, apple pie, ice cream and a little bit of cake. This isn't a bad thing but I felt like I was eating just to eat. I realized I do like the discipline of keeping track of what I eat. The 21 day fix plan has veggies, fruits, carbs, protein, fat, dressings, and nut butters. So Monday morning I decided to go back on the plan. I had several packs of Shakeology left and once those are done I'll use my Vega One. Although I haven't been able to exercise in a week because now I have a cold, it feels good to at least plan my meals. Of course a new incentive for me is our vacation to Maui in 3 weeks, which just happens to be 21 days. I'm fortunate that my family enjoys healthy eating and I don't have to make separate meals for each of us. We can all sit down together as a family to a healthy, delicious meal. I do have some planned splurges but during the week its easy for me to follow this plan. I think that is where I'll find the balance I need. 

I wanted to share some tools I've used during this process. If you own an apple device the 21 day fix plan app is free. My calorie target is 1200 - 1499 which gives me a certain amount of containers. If you look at the app, that is 3 green (veggies), 2 purple (fruit), 4 red (protein), 2 yellow (carbs) 1 blue (healthy fat), 1 orange (seeds & dressings), 2 teaspoons for Oils & Nut Butters. Amazon sells these containers for $24.80 or you can research on Pinterest or Google what the equivalent size is for each color. During the day I have breakfast, snack, lunch, snack #2, & dinner. I usually have the shake for breakfast or my first snack after a workout. In my shake I'll use one of my fruits and unsweetened vanilla almond milk. I've only tried one Vega One shake so I can't truly say if I like it better or if it works as well as Shakeology. Its pretty easy to get online though and do some research on shakes that compare to Shakeology. You can try Beach body on demand for free for at least a week I think. If you want to try some free 30 minute workouts, the BeFit channel on Youtube is great. The BeFit workouts with Scott Herman are my favorite. Another great place to find 21 day fix meals is on Pinterest and their are lots of bloggers out there with their weekly meal plans.

Their are so many free tools online and I know sometimes it can be overwhelming. You don't have to wait till Monday to start a diet. I don't really believe in dieting, you truly need to find a way to eat healthy that works for you. Maybe that just means focusing on your calories 5 to 6 days a week and take one day off. Baby steps, cut out chips this week, and maybe soda the next. 

Truly the best part of when you buy a starter pack with Beachbody is you have a coach and a group of women who are also trying to eat healthy and exercise. And you have a group that inspires you to stick with this daily. If you are interested in trying that out, I'm happy to share my coach with you. Here is the link if you are curious http://www.beachbodycoach.com/esuite/home/riw818

Week 3 - Life Happens

Last Saturday while I was doing a 30 minute workout I sprained my SI joint. I've done this before and I knew immediately when it happened. During a one legged dead lift with an upright row. Of course the pilot asked me if I stopped when I felt it. Lets just say I finished the workout. Not sure why he asked when he knew the answer to the question. Anyway after that I realized I wouldn't be able to exercise the last week of this challenge. I enjoy exercising and I usually workout out 5 to 6 days a week so not being able to is kind of hard for me. 

We went to the mountains for a couple days and I brought healthy food with us to our condo. However, the very first night we went out to eat, I had 3 fish tacos, green chili fries, and a margarita. Now I could say my back really hurt so I had the margarita to help but the truth is I just really like fish tacos & margaritas. The next day I stuck with the plan and only had one treat, a small serving of gelato. By Wednesday I was able to do yoga and put some time in on the elliptical when we got home.  I stayed with the diet and I've made it to day 20 out of 21. I weighed in at 135 this morning, so it seems my splurges didn't necessarily hurt me. Again I'll point out the good and the not so good.

Good: I have to say this month I've saved a lot of money not going out to eat. I also decided I didn't need to purchase any more workout clothes. This is a big decision for me since that is truly my wardrobe right now but I have enough. Having healthy food in the fridge and several options for dinner to make at home has been great. The convenience of the beach body on demand is wonderful, I can work out at home and its only 30 minutes a day. That has probably been my favorite part. The shakes are tasty and truly curve my cravings. I've enjoyed getting to know new people in the Facebook challenge group. They have helped me stay accountable on this journey.

Not so good: I only lost 3 lbs and that happened the first couple days of the challenge. I haven't taken measurements but it doesn't seem like much has changed. Feeling guilty for one splurge meal. I guess in the past I wouldn't have thought twice about that but being part of a group made it worse. The price of the shakes. Feeling bad because I couldn't work out, I know I shouldn't but it felt like I was quitting. 

Going forward I've decided to continue the subscription to Beachbody on demand, it's only $12 a month. Totally affordable and a lot less than any gym membership I've ever had. I love that I have access to workouts from my phone and my iPad. I cancelled my next order of shakeology, the bargain shopper part of me just can't justify the price. I've done some research and found Vega One has almost all the same ingredients at a fraction of the price. I ordered some on Amazon to try it out and see if it can curve my cravings. 

About 4 years ago I would've loved to find a group that was doing this challenge because I know I would've lost the excess weight that was bothering me. I haven't always been happy with my weight but at this point in my life I feel like I'm at a maintenance phase. As long as I eat healthy 90% of the time I can afford those splurges or treats 10% of the time. I love the new tools I have but going forward I feel like I can do this on my own. Shakeology is a great product and the people I've meet who are part of this are great. However, its just not for me. I'm searching for a balance in my life, I want to be healthy but my plan is to not give up the foods I enjoy for the rest of my life. I'm talking about you Mr. Avocado and Mr. Cheese!!! Feel free to ask me any questions about my experience, I'm happy to share.

Week 2

I feel fit and smaller but the scale doesn't reflect that, I'm still a solid 135. I'm not unhappy with that number however after cutting out alcohol, most of my carbs, & fat I thought that number would've changed this week. I thought I had lost an inch off of each thigh, turns out I just didn't measure them in the right place. My mind is still clear and I have so much energy. The pilot even told me he was a little jealous of my energy and wanted to steal one of my shake packets! Just like last week I'll start with the good and then the not so good.

Good: I'm consistently working out and eating healthy. Before I use to struggle with what to make for dinner and now I have a plan. Makes my life a lot easier. I always have healthy options available for me and the family. The pilot eats healthy as well so I don't have to worry about making separate meals for each of us. I believe writing down what I eat daily is probably the best way to keep me accountable. I average at least 80 to 100 oz of water a day. I have 3 flavors of the shakeology, chocolate, vanilla, & cafe latte. I've got lots of recipes and variations I can make with these 3 flavors. A couple of my favorites are vanilla berry (vanilla shake, frozen berries & almond milk), vanilla latte (vanilla shake, almond milk, coffee, & ice), chocolate with PB2, banana, almond milk & ice. Cafe latte was good with a banana, almond milk, ice, & dash of cinnamon. I usually have a shake after a workout or for breakfast.

Not so good: I miss cheese. You have to understand my full on love for cheese. When we took a trip to Seattle we went to a cheese shop that make 4000 lbs of cheese a day, I was in heaven!! I think I spent about $50 on cheese. I would choose cheese over dessert any day. My options each day are a small amount of cheese for my fat or avocado. WHAT??? And the avocado portion is only 1/4 of an avocado. Normally I would eat one whole avocado a day, every day of the week. So I have a daily battle, do I choose cheese or avocado. Next I miss carbs, I can have 2 servings a day. Just a small list I can choose from for carbs: beans, bread, cereal, brown rice, quinoa, oatmeal, pasta, sweet potato, 2 corn tortillas, 1 waffle. So my dilemma is if I have oatmeal for breakfast and 1/2 a sandwich for lunch, that leaves no carbs for dinner. I'm struggling a bit to balance what I want to eat more.

Here is a sample of what I ate yesterday: Breakfast - scrambled eggs w/mushrooms, Snack - Vanilla berry shake, Lunch - Turkey wrap & baby carrots, Snack - Apple & peanut butter, Dinner - Taco Bowl.

I think I've become addicted to peanut butter since its the one indulgence I feel I get on a daily basis. I buy the honey roasted grounded peanut butter at Whole Foods, it is AMAZING!! Freshly ground and I look forward to that little piece of heaven daily. And I lost the creamer battle, I decided for about 20 calories a day I could afford one teaspoon of my sweet cream. And my pilot thanks me for that because one day I thought I was going to bite several heads off if I didn't get my creamer.

Next week is spring break and we are headed out of town. I plan on doing my workouts and staying on track with my food. I have a plan. I'm on day 14 of 21 days. I can do this!!!

Week 1

I have to say I was a bit skeptical using shakeology and following this plan. I tried this some time last year and I didn't really 100% commit. I was only making shakes with 1/2 the packet of powder and I hadn't given up on my creamer. So now that I'm all in, let's talk about the good and the not so good.

Good: I weigh 135, believe me I was shocked to see that number after only a couple days. I got on and off the scale 4 times to make sure it was right.  I feel amazing! My mind is clear, I have lots of energy after my workouts, and my sugar cravings in the evening are gone. I won't bore you with all the ingredients but if you'd like to see what is in these shakes visit this website, she breaks down each ingredient http://sweetlifefitness.net/shakeology/shakeology-ingredients/
I'm part of a Facebook group where I post a sweaty selfie daily as well as what I've eaten for the day. Trust me this group keeps me accountable. Its difficult to cheat when I know I'm going to share what I've eaten. This also keeps me motivated to workout. I enjoy the workouts that came with the program, they are very efficient and only take 30 mins. I am going to Orange Theory once a week and I use that to replace my cardio day. I also go to Core Power once a week which replaces my Pilates day. I mindfully choose my meals and don't eat randomly. I believe the added fruits and veggies in my diet are also contributing to how I feel.

Not so good: The coffee situation, the don't list includes: cream, half & half, sugar, honey, other sweeteners, non-dairy creamer, artificial sweeteners, flavored syrups, & chocolate syrup. The do list: lemon, cinnamon, nutmeg, pumpkin spice, 1 tbsp low or nonfat milk, stevia. I've been trying several different ways to prepare my coffee that doesn't include my creamer and so far nothing has worked yet. I'm going though creamer withdrawal. Today I tried cold coffee with my vanilla shakeology, it was actually pretty good but not the same as my creamer. My right butt check has been sore for 3 days, ever since I did the lower fix extreme workout. I guess it means its working but I sat on our hot tub jets last night and I've been stretching like crazy to work it out. Okay, not the worst problem to have but its uncomfortable.

I haven't updated any of my measurements but I think I'll save that for day 21.  Only 2 more weeks to go, I'll keep you posted......

Beachbody starts today

I have to start this by saying I am not unhappy with my body or my weight. This morning when I got on the scale the number was 138.1, my ultimate goal was 135 but honestly 138 is just fine. Lately I've been feeling lazy and unmotivated. I feel like each day I'm just doing the same things over and over, I don't really have a plan or goal that I'm working towards. My girlfriend started this about a month ago and I decided this was something I could do. I want to challenge myself and see if I dial everything in, my workouts and my nutrition what could happen. I signed up for Orange Theory in December but after a couple months I just wasn't getting out of it what I thought I would. I go once a week because that is what I'm willing to pay for, their rates are pricey. I was hoping I'd get new ideas for my sculpt classes I teach but I only maybe get one exercise I can use. Plus its not something I really look forward to and that is when I know its time to change. If you can't find an exercise you enjoy or feel you have accomplished something its gets harder and harder to get into. I received my package last night. Although I have been watching my diet this last week today was truly my first day. I've done a couple of the workouts already and what I loved is they are only 30 minutes and really target each muscle group. As a bonus, lots of great ideas for me to use in my classes.

Day 1 I started the day with the Yoga Extreme workout, not sure I'd call it extreme but it wasn't terrible. It's hard to do this workout when I've been practicing and teaching at core power yoga but I have to say 30 minutes was perfect. Its 3:30 pm and I'm not starving so the food so far has been good. Their are containers involved and after a simple equation to figure out my caloric intake I know how many of each I get. Today I've had a shakeology for breakfast, hard boiled egg & 1/2 banana, tuna & avocado salad, peanut butter & berries oatmeal, and tonight I'll make a broccoli slaw with ground beef. My caloric intake is roughly 1500 calories a day. This is totally doable for me and I hope by the end of the week I'll notice some changes. The commitment is only 21 days, I can do that.
Today I'm washing fruit, cleaning lettuce, boiling eggs, prepping for the week. This is something I never do so already its making a difference.
I'll keep you posted and hopefully I'll see some inches off and some weight lost!

On the road of life

Things have changed throughout my life and with each passing year I feel like I gain more wisdom and continue to learn new things about myself. This past weekend we drove to the mountains. I enjoyed each moment, the drive, the dogs in the back trying to figure out how to get comfortable, my son commenting on how he was going to spend his recently earned allowance and my husband constantly touching his growing facial hair. Sometimes when time goes by so quickly each day, its nice to take a moment to just appreciate the life we have here and now. I used to stress about what other people thought of me and now, in the nicest way possible, I just don't care anymore. I want to smile and share my positive energy with those around me so they can feel and know how much I love this life. But if that's not their thing, I'm okay with that. Yesterday I taught a yoga sculpt class and I can truly say I appreciated each person who came. When I teach I have so much fun and I can feel the energy in the room with the smiles all around me. I'm hoping this energy is contagious.
Several years back I realized that I'm not responsible for others people's happiness, only my own. That is a hard lesson to learn when you want your family and those around you to be happy. But the truth is the choice is their's not mine. Finding my true calling in life and discovering how to become a stronger and happier me helps my family. It's contagious, I promise. The energy you give and shine helps those around you. They want a little piece of what you have and they want to spend more time with you.
I used to be surrounded by some toxic individuals and when you have to work to pay the bills their isn't much choice to just leave. This was my daily life and I looked forward to the end of each day and the end of each week. I wish I could've told myself back then that I didn't need to let those individuals bother me so much. To just be me and let go of the petty things that didn't matter. To  not waste my precious time with my family complaining about my day. But with everything in life hindsight is 20/20. I no longer let those negative thoughts or feelings fill my days. I lead a life of gratitude. Even in the moments I want to complain about my frustrations, I remind myself to look at the things in my life that I'm thankful for and it turns my mind around.
In this moment and in this life, what are you thankful for and how can you appreciate the moments that truly matter?

Social Media: The Good, The Bad, & The Ugly

Yesterday I read this great blog about how a woman got off her social media 2 years ago. No more Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook. She recently reactivated her Facebook just for her wedding to share pictures with people who aren't able to attend, but she said she'll be off it as soon as the wedding is over. I have to say I remember over 8 years ago when I was first introduced to Facebook, I told my friend I wouldn't need it because I had Myspace! Does anyone still use Myspace??
First lets start with The Good. I have less than 100 friends on mine and 80% of that number is family. I enjoy sharing photos of my son and our family, since many of the people on my list don't live in the same state. I don't get political, religious, or outrageous on my page. I want it to be a positive and fun place to share the good things in our life. Not every moment is rainbows and unicorns but I choose to share whats good.
The Bad, the very first thing I do when I wake up is look at my phone. I check on Facebook, did anyone like my posts from the day or night before? What did other people post? Instagram, I check on all the pugs we are following and see if anyone has liked my latest Mugsy photo. Email, how many emails do I have? I need to delete the advertisements, spam the junk, and read anything that is essential. Throughout the day if I have a spare moment I'm looking on my phone. When I get in my car after a yoga class or just leaving a store, I do this routine all over again! How many minutes of my day am I spending on my phone?? I've heard so many times I should start enjoying the moments in my life instead of looking at my phone.
The Ugly, now my son is noticing. I can hear his frustration when he is trying to tell me something and I'm looking at my phone. The other day he told me he was thinking it wasn't fair how much I get to be on my phone and he isn't allowed to use his tablet during the week. The truth is he truly just wants me to pay attention to him more than my phone.
Yesterday we went out to breakfast in a beautiful mountain town and we went to a museum. I tried my best to stay off my phone and not document my entire day on Facebook. I'm not saying that is a bad thing to do but for me not reaching for my phone for a day was a struggle. Today I'm trying the same thing and making progress by still failing.
Please keep in mind I'm not saying social media is bad but at this point I feel like I need to prioritize what is important in my life today. I want to enjoy my moments with my family instead of focusing on taking that perfect photo. I want to use my time more wisely and get my eyes off my phone. I want to have real conversations when I go out with my husband, instead of us both looking at our phones. I know I existed just fine before these amazing phones that do everything for us. I looked at people, I got in my car and just drove. I didn't need my phone every where I went. So for now, its baby steps but I'm committed to try something new and maybe break up with my phone for a bit.
What in your life do you feel might be keeping you from enjoying people, moments, and life around you?

Who am I?

3 years ago I quit my desk job. I have to say it was one of the most rewarding and scariest things I've ever done. Who was I? How was I going to fill my days? What was my purpose in life? I was very lost for a couple months until I had a conversation with my husband. He told me that I had taken care of him while he was sick & not working and this was his gift to me. That completely changed my perspective. Being able to not work and be home with my son & husband was a gift. The days the pilot is home we can actually spend time together. We run errands, eat lunch out, and pick up our son after school. Its the simple moments I have with my family that make me the happiest. At this point in my life I am the most grounded I've ever been. I love our home and the life that we've made together. Our pastor a while back said you will always be happy if you are happy with what you have and not unhappy with what you don't. That is exactly how I feel. I watch my son do incredibly thoughtful things for his friends, family, and teachers and I'm so proud. I believe he has learned this from us.
I'm currently in yoga sculpt teacher training. I'm excited to enter into a profession where I can share this happiness and positive energy with my students. I know when I go to any yoga class that I feel refreshed and renewed after class. The only thing I have to worry about in that class is to be in the moment. Not to look back or forward but to just be. This isn't always easy but over the last couple years I've gotten so much better at it. It's a great time to dedicate for yourself. I'm a better person for it. If you've never taken a yoga class, try it out. Many people think its about stretching but its so much more. The yoga community is very welcoming and non-judgmental. If its a little scary, you tube is a great place to start. You can try it in the comfort of your own home.
I would like to end this by thanking each one of you for reading my blog. I'm not as consistent as I used to be but I truly appreciate each one of you. Namaste..

Easing into 40

For my 40th birthday the pilot planned a trip of a lifetime for us. All 3 of us went to Paris, France. It was incredible 99% of the time. Turning 40 in a foreign country and being on a trip of a lifetime made it really easy not to feel old. Everything in the city we saw was absolutely beautiful. But for fun I'll focus on the 1% that wasn't so great. When we arrived I had not slept in 24 hours, I couldn't sleep on the flight because I was so excited. I booked a super shuttle and lets just say they were less than super. Once the driver picked us up he told us he had 2 more people to pick up. 30 minutes later he found them and he kept receiving text messages about picking up more people to fill the shuttle. After 1 hour of driving in circles around the same terminal I thought I was going to lose it! He picked up one last person and finally left the airport. Had I not just flown for 11 hours and been up 24 I might've been less annoyed.
We booked the Eiffel Tower at 10:30 pm the first night. When we were standing in line a french woman slapped her husband in the face very hard! (we actually laughed about this later) At first we were all kind of stunned, he walked away for a moment and then went right back to her. I guess Parisians are passionate! Once we got to the 2nd level their were quite a few couples making out in the corners. I guess that's what happens in Paris in the spring time!
Before we left we put the global plan on the pilot's phone, we didn't think it made sense to spend $80 to have both our phones on the plan for 4 days. Looking back I probably would've splurged on that extra $40 to be able to call the pilot. We lost each other at the Mona Lisa in the Louvre. Worst place to lose somebody. The first hour I wasn't worried but then I really couldn't find him or my son. A museum worker let me use his phone but as soon I spoke with the pilot I had a feeling we were going in opposite directions. I didn't realize you could walk behind the painting of the Mona Lisa. So I finally just went to the exit. I couldn't call him again and 45 minutes later they both finally walked out of the exit. My son was in tears, he thought he lost his mommy. And the pilot didn't look too happy either. So we left the Louvre and decided to have lunch and restart. Every meal we had there was amazing so that really helped our moods. Then we went to Musee D'Orsay which had so many paintings we recognized. And it was a much smaller museum.
I do have to mention the macarons, they are the most amazing cookies I've tasted in my life. I bought them and ate them every day!!! On the very last day the pilot went on a morning run, he returned with 20 macarons. I love him!! We had only 5 to take home before he bought those. I was happy to carry them on the flights home. We shared them with friends and family, they only lasted a day and a half.
I truly enjoyed this amazing vacation and other than the very minor moments that things didn't go exactly planned it was easy just to restart and move on.
Turning 40 isn't so bad, I'd highly recommend doing it on vacation!

Wednesday Night Wine Tasting

Several weeks ago I received an invite from a friend about a wine tasting party. The invite contained many of my favorite things; wine yes, chocolate yes, cheese absolutely! and dinner served afterwards, yes and double yes. My first obstacle was that the pilot was not going to be home so I would have to find someone to watch our son. I decided not to take any chances and hired a real babysitter. He is 8 now and never really had a babysitter since I'm usually home or have friends he can stay with. He was very excited about having a babysitter. Next step, dress to impress. Now you have to understand I wear yoga clothes everyday and my fanciest outfit is usually jeans and a sweater. I don't even think I dress up this much for the pilot. But it's wine tasting with women, it sounded fancy and I wanted to look nicer than usual. I put on my dark jeans, black top, cute banana republic jacket, and new jewelry. I did my make up and made sure the curls were looking extra curly.  Now I'm thinking to myself I don't get out very much. Anyway, the party did not disappoint, I learned some new things about wine and had a great time. Did you know if you lick a lemon before you drink wine it completely changes the taste of the wine?? Crazy, I know. Although I think if you were to lick a lemon before eating anything it would change the taste, right?? Also if you pair the wine with the right foods it taste even better! I have to admit that I had a grudge against red wine since a Fray concert in 2012 but after trying several tonight I may be able to drink it again. Oh Hello red wine its been so long, maybe we can be friends again. But I must take baby steps because as I learned at the concert, too much of a good thing isn't such a good thing.
To be honest I was having such a good time I didn't want to leave but the babysitter had to be paid and it was a school night. When I got home she told me for the first hour and half I was gone they just talked. My son asked her at one point "So, do you live around here". Then he told her he believed in Santa and the Tooth Fairy but wasn't so sure about the easter bunny. His argument was how did his parents know where the eggs were if the easter bunny hid them. He has a pretty good argument.
If you ever find yourself invited to a home wine tasting party, just say yes! And I did sign up for the wine club but I am truly looking forward to getting 2 bottles of wine a month in the mail. What a nice surprise that will be.....

Letter to Jimmy Kimmel

Dear Jimmy,
Several weeks ago I watched the best episode of The Bachelor I've ever seen. What made it the best was you. You planned the perfect date for this couple, sending them to Costco with your grocery list was brilliant. Everybody needs enough ketchup to fill up a hot tub, you nailed it. I appreciated the "amazing" jar you presented to all the girls. I thought for sure it would be the "journey" jar, since I'm positive that word is said at least a dozen times if not more per episode. By the way what did you do with all those dollars the girls put in the jar? During the date you dared to ask the tough questions. Really every date on this show needs you, no one wants to ask tough questions. Like "Hey how do you like making out with 20 girls? or Does anybody really want to live on a farm in Iowa with no outside contacts?" I wanted to mention I have a hot tub in my backyard. You are welcome to eat wings in my hot tub anytime. Speaking of which the hubby and I would love to have you as a third wheel on a date anytime. After 20 years of marriage I'm sure you'd have some tough questions we could answer. Thank you for making a ridiculous show more entertaining to watch. I had a permanent  smile/laugh on my face when you were on screen.

Sincerely,

Jody

January mini goals

Last year we sat down as a family and made goals for each month for the entire year. It was fun but the way I work is I like to figure out what I'm going to do on a daily basis. So this year we decided to set goals for each month. If something doesn't work we can make new ones for the next month. Here is what we have so far:

1. 2 meals a week from a cookbook we own (1 made by me, 1 made by the pilot)
2. Game night with music (no phones or distractions)
3. Yoga together one night
4. Daddy and son time
5. Wahoo's Fish Taco on Thursdays (kids eat free on this night)

My son was very excited about planning this with us. Especially the going out to eat on Thursdays. We were successful this week. Sunday night we played Skipbo and Jenga. I did a yoga flow for my son on Wednesday, last night we ate at Wahoo's, and tonight Daddy & son are working on a truck model together.
I wanted to share this to possibly inspire something new you'd like to to do. Either alone or with your family. Mini-goals are easy and attainable. You could also make financial, health, or exercise goals one month at a time. Even easier, make them one week at a time.
These are fun goals for us and I look forward to the new ones we will set in February.

Looking back and looking forward

I have to say 2014 was a wonderful year for our family. We had fun adventures and enjoyed doing new things together. As a family we zip lined for the very first time in San Juan Puerto Rico. We drove 500 miles on the Pacific Coast Highway in California. We hiked at The Dupont State Forest park in North Carolina. I ran my first 10k in August. My son did his first triathlon. The pilot did his annual 100 mile bike ride as well as a sprint triathlon. The pilot and I just celebrated our 20th wedding anniversary. I'm incredibly thankful for this life of ours. I have to say our happiness is not just luck. We have been blessed and I thank God every day for this life we have.
This morning my son went to kids yoga. Before we left he had me try on a bracelet he made and told me he was giving it to his yoga teacher! Anytime he does something thoughtful he really makes my heart swell. I truly love that he is learning how to think of others before himself.
Even with all the adventures, my favorite moments are simple ones. A couple weeks ago the 3 of us were cuddling together watching a movie. Our little pug Mugsy was also laying on us, it felt like paradise.
Going into 2015 I'm excited to see what the New Year will bring. I finally feel grounded and have a sense of who I really am. Leaving work several years ago was the best decision I ever made. My environment was toxic and I was becoming somebody I didn't really like. Now I'm focused on my family and the life we have together. Encouraging my son to try new things and not to worry about failing but just trying. So in that same spirit I'm going to try something new as well. It doesn't start till May but I'm hoping this is a new career change for myself. I'll share more details when the time comes. The pilot has always wanted me to find something to do in life that I love and I think it has finally happened.
Just like last year we plan on sitting down together and making family goals. In March the pilot is running the New York 1/2 marathon and the plan is for my son and I to go to support the pilot. In April, when I turn 40, we are going out of the country to a place we've never been. In May I will start training for this new career.  Lots of positive things and if their are bumps along the way I know I have God and my family & friends for support.
Happy New Year friends and family, Hope its a great one!!!!!!!

9:30 am Church Service

I may have mentioned in the past I have an issue with parking and parking lots. Especially our church, any time I've tried to go at 9:30 am there is no parking. You have to park at the rec. center or school and they shuttle you to the church. Or you can park in the residential area near the church but its a good 5 minute walk. Since I know this about myself I like to go at 11 am, because I'd rather not go into church in a bad mood before I even get in the building. Why am I bringing this up you ask?? Well, the pilot told me last week he'd like to go to the 9:30 service. I thought I was prepared, I was ready at 9:15 and my son was ready as well. However the pilot was getting into the shower at 9:15 am, not the best way to start. We get in the car at 9:28, when we get there he drops us off. I try to take my son to class but they only have a special discipleship class for his age group, which of course he is not signed up. I have several different adults try to direct me but no one is able to find the right class. I'm agitated that we're late, I'm irritated they don't have a class for my son, so I grab his hand and walk quickly upstairs. I text the pilot and tell him I want to go home! Yes I'm crazy, but you have to understand I knew this was going to happen and the pilot wanted to go anyway. So he meets us and gives me his keys and says I can go home but he is staying. WHAT??? First of all I have my own set of keys so why give me yours and second of all, What? I couldn't leave with my son watching so we all went into the service. The pilot held my hand, and that made it a little better. I finally calmed down and ended up really enjoying the service. I'm very happy the pilot didn't listen to me and glad he can deal with my crazy side.
Fast forward to yesterday, I told the pilot I wanted to leave the house at 9:15 am for church. Guess what? We left at 9:12 am, got a parking spot, and all was right with the world. Their are grocery stores I won't go to because of there parking lots. This is an issue for me and I really wish I could get over it but I'm crazy. Do you have any irrational things that drive you crazy? I hope so, because I'd hate to think I was the only one....

Research and Yoga pants

Its been a while since I've written a blog, but this morning after an incident I had to write. I signed up for ingather research and was selected to join a discussion on Woolite. I truly enjoy these experiences because I get first insight on what the next campaign that these companies are pursuing. I also get paid for 2 hours of my time which really is the best part. And I will probably use my hard earned research money to buy yoga clothing.
At the beginning of the discussion I did mention that I wash all of my workout gear in Woolite and I stated I'm a stay at home mom. So the group knew I did yoga and therefore wear yoga clothing. One participant stated she HATED that women wear yoga pants at Target or in public. Her question was "Did these women just workout or are they going to workout?" When she was done yammering I mentioned that I go to Target wearing my yoga pants. And I wanted to ask her why does she care?? I will say I mentioned pajamas in public was a little frustrating but I don't believe I used the word hate. That is a pretty strong word to use, its just yoga pants. I know our society as a whole has gone more casual but what somebody else is wearing is their choice. I wasn't aware that Target had a dress code. Next time I'll wear my heels & tiara.
I have my own opinions and the lines I try to not cross but I'm not hurting anyone. I also got the feeling that the same woman did not have much respect for stay at home moms. She mentioned she didn't want to see a mom in the ad because they just throw everything in the wash and don't care about what happens to their clothes. REALLY? Did you not just hear me say I'm a stay at home mom.  Wouldn't you think that stay at home moms care more about their clothes because they might be on a budget? Yes I'm sarcastic and I admit to that but there is a difference between being sarcastic and just being mean. No matter what you choose to do in life at least respect those around you and the choices they've made for their own life. It may not be what you would do but thats the great thing about America we have the freedom to choose.
In the end I got my check, cashed it, and I will never have to see this woman again. But I'm sure I will see someone like her again who is thinking the same thing. And you know what, Yes I did just workout and yes my butt looks great in my yoga pants!!!

What are my Spiritual Gifts???

Apparently waking up in time to make a 9:15 class at church is not one of my gifts. Last Sunday our church had a one time class that would answer what our spiritual gifts are and I really wanted to go. Until I woke up at 8:53 am and decided we'd stay home. Luckily my son doesn't judge me and say things like "So why aren't we going to church today?" Maybe he should. Later in the week he told me that his friend goes every week unlike us. Ouch. I explained to him that even though we don't go every week, it doesn't mean that we don't still have our faith or that we don't love Jesus. Save myself that time but will see how long that lasts.
The first thing that comes to mind for me is that I love to give. If I have something that I'm no longer using or that can be helpful to somebody else I give it away. I've given my clothes, jewelry, shoes, my son's clothes & shoes away. And no matter what God always provides for us. This is truly something I enjoy. The second is encouragement, I know I can be sarcastic but truth be told I've cut back on that. I've noticed the people I enjoy most are positive and encouraging people. Of course when they have a twist of sarcasm that also makes me happy.
Now how do I use those two things giving & encouraging? I don't know. I know how to do them in my day to day life but I feel like God wants to use me in a larger way. I really want him to just tell me what my gifts are and how to use them so I'm not wasting them. I had lunch with a friend yesterday and she said "I have a God given talent that I don't want to waste". Which really made me start thinking, what I'm I doing with what God gave me?
If only there was a class or book or something that would guide me? OH wait, there was last Sunday. I forgot to mention sometimes I'm lazy and I like to stay home. I'm working on that, last week I did a lot of things I wouldn't normally do. We went hiking several times and I rode on the back of my husband's motorcycle (even knowing that my hair would be crazy because of the helmet). If you know me I have hair issues. If not, just know wearing a helmet for me is a big deal. I'm trying to say yes and enjoy the place where we live. We are in a beautiful state and sometimes I forget how many places we can go that are just in our backyard.
Its time to hang out in the sun with D-boy and for now I'll just continue to ask God to show me how I can use my gifts for others.....