Gratuity: The creativity of so many folks that bring me entertainment of movies, tv, plays, and music.
Goal Work: "Opportunities to find deeper powers within ourselves come when life seem most challenging" - Joeseph Cambell
No goal work today but just a thought that occurred to me as I watched the movie 127 hours. It was an engrossing movie about a person that overcame amazing odds. He actually cuts his stuck arm off with a dull knife when he realized it was the only thing that would allow him to survive the situation. Would I have the creativity and guts to have done the same thing? I am not sure......and I guess that bothers me a bit.
Awaken: 08:30AM
Yesterday MIT and Goal Work: Exercise was great running at a 1 incline for 30 mintues. I also did my Sunday Yoga on Saturday because I was so sore from yesterday's run. It really helped. I made the ButterNut Risotta but did not get to the other things on my MIT list. I was good about everything else though.
Today's MIT: Make ButterNut Squash Soup, clean kitchen, straighten den.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Sunday, January 30, 2011
yes they call him The Streak - fastest thing on two feet
Gratuity: High School Graduation and yes we had our own streaker.
Weekly Weigh-in: 209 (lost 1 pound) Yeah me!
Goals Work: How use doth breed a habit in a man! - William Shakespeare
My sister asked me if I wanted to go streaking! Our Nephew promptly excused himself from the conversation; the image of his Mom and Auntie's streaking was just too much for him to handle. Now you and he should not worry as it is not what you think. This is not some 70's fad we are talking about. This is about charity, discipline, and camaraderie. As my sister explained the idea of a streak is to do (or not do) something every day for a month. I think that might be the definition of a habit. The more days in a row you streak, the more you donate to a charity. If you mess up then the streak ends and your commitment to the charity of choice will be small. If you go the entire month then you can have the satisfaction of successfully creating a habit as well as donating a nice sum to a charity.
We have chosen two groups to donate to. One fund will allow my sister Deb to purchase a mile marker in honor of a cancer survivor friend of hers for the Miles of Hope April Run. The other fund will go to the Binghamton Crew Scholarship fund headed up by my son Derek.
Remember this song from the 70's
Today's MIT: Cook Butternut Squash Risotta, Butternut Squash Soup, More cleaning Den
Yesterday's MIT: I am quite sore as I did my first speed run and tried to apply some Chi running. I would run .25 mile at 6.0 and then .25 mile at 3.5. I am not sure if I am so sore because of the speed or the Chi. I was also pleasantly surprised that the 10K at Oak Island is really going to happen so there was no need for me to research alternatives. I am nervous about the 10K but quite excited by it.
Weekly Weigh-in: 209 (lost 1 pound) Yeah me!
Goals Work: How use doth breed a habit in a man! - William Shakespeare
My sister asked me if I wanted to go streaking! Our Nephew promptly excused himself from the conversation; the image of his Mom and Auntie's streaking was just too much for him to handle. Now you and he should not worry as it is not what you think. This is not some 70's fad we are talking about. This is about charity, discipline, and camaraderie. As my sister explained the idea of a streak is to do (or not do) something every day for a month. I think that might be the definition of a habit. The more days in a row you streak, the more you donate to a charity. If you mess up then the streak ends and your commitment to the charity of choice will be small. If you go the entire month then you can have the satisfaction of successfully creating a habit as well as donating a nice sum to a charity.
We have chosen two groups to donate to. One fund will allow my sister Deb to purchase a mile marker in honor of a cancer survivor friend of hers for the Miles of Hope April Run. The other fund will go to the Binghamton Crew Scholarship fund headed up by my son Derek.
Remember this song from the 70's
Today's MIT: Cook Butternut Squash Risotta, Butternut Squash Soup, More cleaning Den
Yesterday's MIT: I am quite sore as I did my first speed run and tried to apply some Chi running. I would run .25 mile at 6.0 and then .25 mile at 3.5. I am not sure if I am so sore because of the speed or the Chi. I was also pleasantly surprised that the 10K at Oak Island is really going to happen so there was no need for me to research alternatives. I am nervous about the 10K but quite excited by it.
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Free days
Gratuity: My dependable predictable Hubbie
Goal Work: A sense of the value of time--that is, of the best way to divide one's time into one's various activities--is an essential preliminary to efficient work; it is the only method of avoiding hurry -- Arnold Bennett.
Not "Free days" as in days that I can forget about my goals or eat anything I want but time saved because of efficiency. Saved time when added together really can be like getting the gift of additional hours, days, or weeks to live and accomplish my dreams.
The other day I rearranged my kitchen condiments and spices. I moved the non-refrigerator condiments to where I keep my spices near the stove and moved my spices to the cabinet next to it. I use my oils, vinegars, agave etc. as well as my spices extensively when I cook. Now I don't have to walk clear across the kitchen to grab them but rather just reach a bit for them. I bet I have saved about 5 minutes a day with this new arrangement. 5 * 365 = 30 hours = 1+ days. Martha Stewart has some additional tips on home efficiencies. Now what shall I do with this newly found day!
Awaken: 07:58AM
Today's MIT: Bring Treasury Bill Refund check to the bank, look into 10K races, Make Gypsy Pot
Yesterday's MIT and Goals: No comment
Goal Work: A sense of the value of time--that is, of the best way to divide one's time into one's various activities--is an essential preliminary to efficient work; it is the only method of avoiding hurry -- Arnold Bennett.
Not "Free days" as in days that I can forget about my goals or eat anything I want but time saved because of efficiency. Saved time when added together really can be like getting the gift of additional hours, days, or weeks to live and accomplish my dreams.
The other day I rearranged my kitchen condiments and spices. I moved the non-refrigerator condiments to where I keep my spices near the stove and moved my spices to the cabinet next to it. I use my oils, vinegars, agave etc. as well as my spices extensively when I cook. Now I don't have to walk clear across the kitchen to grab them but rather just reach a bit for them. I bet I have saved about 5 minutes a day with this new arrangement. 5 * 365 = 30 hours = 1+ days. Martha Stewart has some additional tips on home efficiencies. Now what shall I do with this newly found day!
Awaken: 07:58AM
Today's MIT: Bring Treasury Bill Refund check to the bank, look into 10K races, Make Gypsy Pot
Yesterday's MIT and Goals: No comment
Friday, January 28, 2011
Your mistakes do not define you now
Gratuity: My time and it is a terrible thing to waste.
Goal Work: Regret for wasted time is more wasted time - Mason Cooley
I allowed work to get me off track. An emergency that I pulled all the stops out for. Problem solved but it got me off track. I ended up eating way too much (4 eggs, 1 piece of toast, an entire can of clam chowder soup, 2 Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, 1 Chunky candy bar, 20Fl ounces of Diet Coke, 1 tomato sandwich with vegainaise, 1 plate of salad with vinegar, A couple handfuls of wasabi nuts, 1 order of shrimp with Chinese vegetables and rice (I did order the Healthy option choice)). That is way more food then I normally eat in a day.
I did not clean out the litter box, or do 15 minute cleanup, or go running. I watched some stupid TV shows. I somehow left the kitchen a mess although I did not make dinner but ordered out instead.
Oh well - I should not beat myself up but rather be kind and forgive.
Your mistakes do not define you now / They tell you who you're not / You've got to live this life you're given / Like it's the only one you've got
Today's MIT: I didn't even make goals today.
Yesterday's MIT and Goal work: No Karate because of the snow and I ate a few more wasabi nuts then I should have but pretty good otherwise. Special day as I found all of our old kid's videos while cleaning the den. Great watching some of them. The money from the old treasury bills my Dad bought when I was 10 but I had lost but then found on the Internet came in today. Thank you Internet.
Goal Work: Regret for wasted time is more wasted time - Mason Cooley
I allowed work to get me off track. An emergency that I pulled all the stops out for. Problem solved but it got me off track. I ended up eating way too much (4 eggs, 1 piece of toast, an entire can of clam chowder soup, 2 Reese's Peanut Butter Cups, 1 Chunky candy bar, 20Fl ounces of Diet Coke, 1 tomato sandwich with vegainaise, 1 plate of salad with vinegar, A couple handfuls of wasabi nuts, 1 order of shrimp with Chinese vegetables and rice (I did order the Healthy option choice)). That is way more food then I normally eat in a day.
I did not clean out the litter box, or do 15 minute cleanup, or go running. I watched some stupid TV shows. I somehow left the kitchen a mess although I did not make dinner but ordered out instead.
Oh well - I should not beat myself up but rather be kind and forgive.
Your mistakes do not define you now / They tell you who you're not / You've got to live this life you're given / Like it's the only one you've got
Today's MIT: I didn't even make goals today.
Yesterday's MIT and Goal work: No Karate because of the snow and I ate a few more wasabi nuts then I should have but pretty good otherwise. Special day as I found all of our old kid's videos while cleaning the den. Great watching some of them. The money from the old treasury bills my Dad bought when I was 10 but I had lost but then found on the Internet came in today. Thank you Internet.
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Vinegar
Gratuity: Brussels Sprouts and Asparagus - I hated them as a kid; I love them now. Fits a bit with the second chance theme :-)
Goal Work: “The group that got the vinegar lost several pounds on average and that was significant compared to the placebo group that had no change in their weight.” - Carol Johnston
A big salad topped with a delicious vinegar and a sprinkle of black pepper has been so helpful for my diet goals. The salad is low calorie and gives me the nutrients that my body is craving. It also fills me up so I don't eat too much of the meal. The key to the low calories has been the vinegar. The vinegar is low calorie but gives the salad a kick that satisfies. I tried lemon but that was not to my taste . I've used all different types of vinegars. One of my favorites is Tavern on the Green Blackberry Ginger Balsamic vinegar. I also love all flavors of the Nakano Rice Vinegar. Stables also include a generic balsamic as well as a red wine vinegar and a champagne vinegar. A white wine and a apple cider are also options. The vinegar possibilities are unlimited so you are never bored.
A interesting anecdote on apple cider vinegar for weight loss.
More evidence on the benefits of vinegar for weight loss.
and some more here.
I did not realize that others had luck with vinegar until I was doing research for this blog. Must be something to it!
Yesterday's MIT and Goals: Nice job Laura
Today's MIT: Bring refund check to the bank, Organize Den, Organize Den
Goal Work: “The group that got the vinegar lost several pounds on average and that was significant compared to the placebo group that had no change in their weight.” - Carol Johnston
A big salad topped with a delicious vinegar and a sprinkle of black pepper has been so helpful for my diet goals. The salad is low calorie and gives me the nutrients that my body is craving. It also fills me up so I don't eat too much of the meal. The key to the low calories has been the vinegar. The vinegar is low calorie but gives the salad a kick that satisfies. I tried lemon but that was not to my taste . I've used all different types of vinegars. One of my favorites is Tavern on the Green Blackberry Ginger Balsamic vinegar. I also love all flavors of the Nakano Rice Vinegar. Stables also include a generic balsamic as well as a red wine vinegar and a champagne vinegar. A white wine and a apple cider are also options. The vinegar possibilities are unlimited so you are never bored.
A interesting anecdote on apple cider vinegar for weight loss.
More evidence on the benefits of vinegar for weight loss.
and some more here.
I did not realize that others had luck with vinegar until I was doing research for this blog. Must be something to it!
Yesterday's MIT and Goals: Nice job Laura
Today's MIT: Bring refund check to the bank, Organize Den, Organize Den
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Extreme Gratuity for my Health
Gratuity: My health
Goal Work: Life is too short, so kiss slowly, laugh insanely, love truly, and forgive quickly - author unknown.
When Allen came home from work today, he brought up the computer and told me to take a look at something on it. Allen usually doesn't request much. It was the story of an acquaintance of his, a person with kids just a few years older than ours, a person he shared many kid's sports stories with, a person who was now an empty-nester ready to do the things he has long been putting off. The news was sad. The person had brain cancer. It was operated on and this person, James Kyle, is making the best of his situation. He is participating in a cycling fundraiser. Allen wanted to help. I, of course, thought that was a great idea and we plan to donate at this spot that tells James Kyle's story. We wish him the best of luck.
It made me think about how lucky I am that I am healthy. It made me think about the watching of my wedding video and my realization of all those no longer with us. It made me remember that I must embrace life while I can!
Awaken: 08:03AM
Yesterday's MIT and Goals: Pretty good although I forgot my 15 minute cleanup. Ate some very delicious salads. Feeling a bit sore in my shoulder. I am not sure if it was from the new exercise in TaeKwonDo or from the new exercise in ChiRunning.
MIT and Goals: Start Cleaning Den, Cook Squash and Chestnut, Brussel Sprouts, Cranberry Dish, Continue to look into sneaker recycling.
Goal Work: Life is too short, so kiss slowly, laugh insanely, love truly, and forgive quickly - author unknown.
When Allen came home from work today, he brought up the computer and told me to take a look at something on it. Allen usually doesn't request much. It was the story of an acquaintance of his, a person with kids just a few years older than ours, a person he shared many kid's sports stories with, a person who was now an empty-nester ready to do the things he has long been putting off. The news was sad. The person had brain cancer. It was operated on and this person, James Kyle, is making the best of his situation. He is participating in a cycling fundraiser. Allen wanted to help. I, of course, thought that was a great idea and we plan to donate at this spot that tells James Kyle's story. We wish him the best of luck.
It made me think about how lucky I am that I am healthy. It made me think about the watching of my wedding video and my realization of all those no longer with us. It made me remember that I must embrace life while I can!
Awaken: 08:03AM
Yesterday's MIT and Goals: Pretty good although I forgot my 15 minute cleanup. Ate some very delicious salads. Feeling a bit sore in my shoulder. I am not sure if it was from the new exercise in TaeKwonDo or from the new exercise in ChiRunning.
MIT and Goals: Start Cleaning Den, Cook Squash and Chestnut, Brussel Sprouts, Cranberry Dish, Continue to look into sneaker recycling.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Adding another run
Gratuity: My dog groomer asked me if I had lost weight. Yeah me!
Goal Work:
"Knowing others is intelligence,
knowing yourself is true wisdom.
Mastering others is strength,
Mastering yourself is true power"
by Lao-Tzu
In order to help achieve my 10K run I know I need to run more than twice a week. I am going to add a choice of Friday or Sunday to the mix. On Thursday I will run for speed, hoping to do 6.0 intervals. On Saturday I will run on an incline and on Sunday. I will run longer hoping to eventually run one hour. I am going to use the following program to get me running for an a hour in 7 weeks. I willl also consider this plan or this plan to train for a 10K.
Awaken: 07:55AM
Yesterday's MIT and Goals: Nice job + added an extra run of 35 minutes + 10 minute warmup/down. I did eat a few chips that Heather bought for football watching but it was not in excess.
MIT: Remind Allen of Mortage change verification, cook mushroom and squash dinner, research sneaker recycle.
Goal Work:
"Knowing others is intelligence,
knowing yourself is true wisdom.
Mastering others is strength,
Mastering yourself is true power"
by Lao-Tzu
In order to help achieve my 10K run I know I need to run more than twice a week. I am going to add a choice of Friday or Sunday to the mix. On Thursday I will run for speed, hoping to do 6.0 intervals. On Saturday I will run on an incline and on Sunday. I will run longer hoping to eventually run one hour. I am going to use the following program to get me running for an a hour in 7 weeks. I willl also consider this plan or this plan to train for a 10K.
Awaken: 07:55AM
Yesterday's MIT and Goals: Nice job + added an extra run of 35 minutes + 10 minute warmup/down. I did eat a few chips that Heather bought for football watching but it was not in excess.
MIT: Remind Allen of Mortage change verification, cook mushroom and squash dinner, research sneaker recycle.
Monday, January 24, 2011
Chi Running
Gratuity: My sisters. They all turned out to be such terrific people. I so appreciated their encouragement, and our sense of history. I am glad I can accept the love again. By the way Happy Birthday Deb!
Goal Work: It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop -- Confucius
I am a really slow runner and I am trying to find a magic bullet to run faster. Chi Running is the rage these days so I am thinking of giving it a try. I am currently reading a book on Chi Running. It promises injury free running. So I figure if it does not make me faster then maybe it will allow me to continue the practice into my old age. Then when I am like 81 I can finally win a race in my age category (as long as Diane does not enter also)!
Tried the Martial Art of Hapkido with two TKD Buddies Debbie and Becky and then went to lunch. I definitely prefer TaeKwonDo.
Weeky Weigh-in: 210 (lost two pounds; Yeah me!)
Awaken: 08:20AM
Yesterday MIT: Perfect.
Today's MIT: Clean Spice Rack and draw, look into chi running class, grocery shopping.
Goal Work: It does not matter how slowly you go as long as you do not stop -- Confucius
I am a really slow runner and I am trying to find a magic bullet to run faster. Chi Running is the rage these days so I am thinking of giving it a try. I am currently reading a book on Chi Running. It promises injury free running. So I figure if it does not make me faster then maybe it will allow me to continue the practice into my old age. Then when I am like 81 I can finally win a race in my age category (as long as Diane does not enter also)!
Tried the Martial Art of Hapkido with two TKD Buddies Debbie and Becky and then went to lunch. I definitely prefer TaeKwonDo.
Weeky Weigh-in: 210 (lost two pounds; Yeah me!)
Awaken: 08:20AM
Yesterday MIT: Perfect.
Today's MIT: Clean Spice Rack and draw, look into chi running class, grocery shopping.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Shut up Sugar
Goal Work: At that time Jesus said, "I praise you, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, because you have hidden these things from the wise and learned, and revealed them to little children. -- Matthew 11:25
Chatting with my sister she gave me a great idea to help me remind myself of some of the things I need to do each day that I keep forgetting. I guess she is addicted to sugar so she has signs around the house that say things like "Sugar hates you" and "Sugar killed your Grandma and now it is after you". The cutest thing is that she found a sign her 6 year old son created that said "Shut up Sugar". How cute! Out of the mouths of babes.
So I have created two signs. One to remind my daughter to shut the lights off in the garage. The other to remind me to do my 15 minute cleanup each day before I go to bed. Thanks Ginny and Jonathan for the great tip.
Awaken: 08:03AM
Yesterday MIT and Goal: Pretty good, finnally a nice yoga recovery. Cat boxes getting cleaned everyday which I am really proud of. In the past they would sometimes go a week when I was in a funk. Forgot 15 minute cleanup Again. Need to figure out how to do that.
Today's MIT: Give Cody a bath, start new finance review, create reminder signs.
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Cats - The Good The Bad and The Ugly
Gratuity: A long hot bubble bath in the Jacuzzi
Goal Work: No amount of time can erase the memory of a good cat, and no amount of masking tape can ever totally remove his fur from your couch. - Leo Dworken
The Good - I've had cats all my life and I remember them all fondly (Trouble, Pumkin, FatCat, Oscar, Misty, Cory, Morgan, Topanga). Presently I have 3 cats and I love them dearly. They are facinating to watch, fairly easy to take care of on a day to day basis, and are the ultimate snuggle machines.
The Bad - I may have mispoke when I said fairly easy to take care of. I should have said "compared to dogs" fairly easy to take care of. There is a litter box to be cleaned up on a daily basis, the occasional puke to clean up and they do need to be fed and given water every day. You also need to be sure to wipe their hair off of your clothes and you have to worry about friends with allergies.
The Ugly - Unfortunately my cats will urinate/spray/mark (not sure what it really is called) in unwanted places. This would give them a one way ticket to the ASPCA by a less crazy owner but I feel a commitment to them. I am struggling with how to control it. Thanks goodness for enzymatic cleansers such as dumb cat. I also just started to use ScatMats (I really am not cruel). The ScatMat works to the effect the cats no longer pee in that same spot. Hopefully they will not choose to pee in a new place. Since the cats tend to inappropriately pee when they are under stress and when the house is a bit messy, I am going to try putting a "calming collar" on them to see if that will also help. Unless I get this problem under control the ghost of my grandmother will never be proud of me.
Awaken: 07:48AM
Yesterday's MIT and Goals: Overall pretty good although I did not spend as much time at the office as I normally would. Ran out of time and was unable to do my Yoga MIT but I had a great run and circuit workout that had me feeling a good sore.
Today's MIT: Call Dog Groomer, Stategically place Scat Matts, Yoga (hopefully 3rd time will be the charm)
Goal Work: No amount of time can erase the memory of a good cat, and no amount of masking tape can ever totally remove his fur from your couch. - Leo Dworken
The Good - I've had cats all my life and I remember them all fondly (Trouble, Pumkin, FatCat, Oscar, Misty, Cory, Morgan, Topanga). Presently I have 3 cats and I love them dearly. They are facinating to watch, fairly easy to take care of on a day to day basis, and are the ultimate snuggle machines.
The Bad - I may have mispoke when I said fairly easy to take care of. I should have said "compared to dogs" fairly easy to take care of. There is a litter box to be cleaned up on a daily basis, the occasional puke to clean up and they do need to be fed and given water every day. You also need to be sure to wipe their hair off of your clothes and you have to worry about friends with allergies.
The Ugly - Unfortunately my cats will urinate/spray/mark (not sure what it really is called) in unwanted places. This would give them a one way ticket to the ASPCA by a less crazy owner but I feel a commitment to them. I am struggling with how to control it. Thanks goodness for enzymatic cleansers such as dumb cat. I also just started to use ScatMats (I really am not cruel). The ScatMat works to the effect the cats no longer pee in that same spot. Hopefully they will not choose to pee in a new place. Since the cats tend to inappropriately pee when they are under stress and when the house is a bit messy, I am going to try putting a "calming collar" on them to see if that will also help. Unless I get this problem under control the ghost of my grandmother will never be proud of me.
Awaken: 07:48AM
Yesterday's MIT and Goals: Overall pretty good although I did not spend as much time at the office as I normally would. Ran out of time and was unable to do my Yoga MIT but I had a great run and circuit workout that had me feeling a good sore.
Today's MIT: Call Dog Groomer, Stategically place Scat Matts, Yoga (hopefully 3rd time will be the charm)
Friday, January 21, 2011
Blogging
Gratuity: A new day
Goal Work: “A blog is merely a tool that lets you do anything from change the world to share your shopping list.” – Author Unknown
For me this blog is a friend, an counselor, a way to make me accountable. I don't expect anyone except myself to really read it but I do hope it inspires me and keep me accountable. A virtual pep talk to myself. Check out others that used blogging to help them lose weight . From those blogs I saw this inspiring video:
Awaken: 09:00AM
MIT and Goals: Since I overslept from too much caffeine the day before I ended up running out of time and not doing my yoga but I stayed on track for everything else.
MIT: Yoga, Cooking Squash soup, looking into weight blogs
Goal Work: “A blog is merely a tool that lets you do anything from change the world to share your shopping list.” – Author Unknown
For me this blog is a friend, an counselor, a way to make me accountable. I don't expect anyone except myself to really read it but I do hope it inspires me and keep me accountable. A virtual pep talk to myself. Check out others that used blogging to help them lose weight . From those blogs I saw this inspiring video:
Awaken: 09:00AM
MIT and Goals: Since I overslept from too much caffeine the day before I ended up running out of time and not doing my yoga but I stayed on track for everything else.
MIT: Yoga, Cooking Squash soup, looking into weight blogs
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Remember Fluid - Not Rigid
Gratuity: 26 years of a fulfilling flexible job that pays well.
Goal Work: Water is fluid, soft, and yielding. But water will wear away rock, which is rigid and cannot yield. As a rule, whatever is fluid, soft, and yielding will overcome whatever is rigid and hard. This is another paradox: what is soft is strong. -- Lao-Tzu (600 B.C.)
Yesterday was an interesting day for my MIT and Goal Work.
I ended up deciding that it did not make sense to buy the $500 dollar Rosetta Stone program. I needed to do some more research. I ended up finding out today that I can use an online version of Rosetta Stone when my department's budget frees up later in the quarter or early second quarter. So I had to be flexible and decide to wait to start my language learning.
My chess game with Derek ended up taking four hours. We were two equally match opponents who ended up in a hard played draw. Problem was that I ended up missing Yoga and making a major mess in the kitchen as I rushed to make home fries. I also ended up drinking tons of DIET COKE while playing and hence was up all night because I could not sleep. I am really trying to stay away from DIET COKE. DIET COKE and CHINESE FOOD will be my downfall. Guess what. You guessed it. My husband brought home the DIET COKE even thought I told him to pretty please not bring it home. I have to have more will power even when I am spending all my energy on high demanding things like kicking my son's butt in chess. The interesting thing about the chess game is that I am so glad I did it. We had the greatest time. It has been so many years since we played. So the game was the impetus that messed up by routine but I loved it and would do it again!!
I have to remember that I am trying to be more disciplined to bring more joy into my life so if a joyful undisciplined moment occurs I should continue to embrace it. It is the undisciplined unjoyful things that I need to manage. Maybe someday I can have the joyful moments and still not drink the DIET COKE and still clean the kitchen while I cook but until that time I will take the joyful moment, the DIET COKE and the Dirty Kitchen.
MIT and Goal Work: Missed Yoga and completed in a haphazard way. Keep forgetting my 15 minute cleanup.
MIT: Clean Kitchen; Cook Squash; Yesterday's Yoga
Goal Work: Water is fluid, soft, and yielding. But water will wear away rock, which is rigid and cannot yield. As a rule, whatever is fluid, soft, and yielding will overcome whatever is rigid and hard. This is another paradox: what is soft is strong. -- Lao-Tzu (600 B.C.)
Yesterday was an interesting day for my MIT and Goal Work.
I ended up deciding that it did not make sense to buy the $500 dollar Rosetta Stone program. I needed to do some more research. I ended up finding out today that I can use an online version of Rosetta Stone when my department's budget frees up later in the quarter or early second quarter. So I had to be flexible and decide to wait to start my language learning.
My chess game with Derek ended up taking four hours. We were two equally match opponents who ended up in a hard played draw. Problem was that I ended up missing Yoga and making a major mess in the kitchen as I rushed to make home fries. I also ended up drinking tons of DIET COKE while playing and hence was up all night because I could not sleep. I am really trying to stay away from DIET COKE. DIET COKE and CHINESE FOOD will be my downfall. Guess what. You guessed it. My husband brought home the DIET COKE even thought I told him to pretty please not bring it home. I have to have more will power even when I am spending all my energy on high demanding things like kicking my son's butt in chess. The interesting thing about the chess game is that I am so glad I did it. We had the greatest time. It has been so many years since we played. So the game was the impetus that messed up by routine but I loved it and would do it again!!
I have to remember that I am trying to be more disciplined to bring more joy into my life so if a joyful undisciplined moment occurs I should continue to embrace it. It is the undisciplined unjoyful things that I need to manage. Maybe someday I can have the joyful moments and still not drink the DIET COKE and still clean the kitchen while I cook but until that time I will take the joyful moment, the DIET COKE and the Dirty Kitchen.
MIT and Goal Work: Missed Yoga and completed in a haphazard way. Keep forgetting my 15 minute cleanup.
MIT: Clean Kitchen; Cook Squash; Yesterday's Yoga
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Water Water Everywhere -
Gratuity - Drinking a glass of ice cold water to satisfy a strong thirst; jumping into a gorgeous river to satisfy a connection to nature; Scuba Diving over a school of colorful fish to satisfy my soul.
Goal Work: I believe that water is the only drink for a wise man. ~Henry David Thoreau
8 glass of water a day is a motto I have heard all of my life. It makes sense to me. Human beings are made up of a very large percentage of water. When I think my body is calling out for food a glass of water will often be what it really needs. With water being such a wonderful substance I don't know why I bother with anything else. Conditioning I think. As a kid I remember knowing I preferred water when we went out to dinner (often McDonald's) but only having soda as a choice. I think having soda as the main choice when I was growing up conditioned me to think that was the only choice. I eventually became addicted to Diet Coke and I think I still have that addiction. Thankfully today's society has changed and now water is a popular choice. When I embrace that choice I feel good trying to limit my diet coke to only times when I have a major need for caffeine. Sometimes I think soda is the devil himself. Does that imply water is next to godliness. Today's lesson is to remember to drink at least 8 glasses of water (tea and carbonated water included) a day. Here are 20 Tips for getting enough water a day.
Awaken: 07:53AM
MIT and Goal work: Complete
MIT: Make home fries, buy Rosetta Stone Software, play a game of chess with Derek.
Goal Work: I believe that water is the only drink for a wise man. ~Henry David Thoreau
8 glass of water a day is a motto I have heard all of my life. It makes sense to me. Human beings are made up of a very large percentage of water. When I think my body is calling out for food a glass of water will often be what it really needs. With water being such a wonderful substance I don't know why I bother with anything else. Conditioning I think. As a kid I remember knowing I preferred water when we went out to dinner (often McDonald's) but only having soda as a choice. I think having soda as the main choice when I was growing up conditioned me to think that was the only choice. I eventually became addicted to Diet Coke and I think I still have that addiction. Thankfully today's society has changed and now water is a popular choice. When I embrace that choice I feel good trying to limit my diet coke to only times when I have a major need for caffeine. Sometimes I think soda is the devil himself. Does that imply water is next to godliness. Today's lesson is to remember to drink at least 8 glasses of water (tea and carbonated water included) a day. Here are 20 Tips for getting enough water a day.
Awaken: 07:53AM
MIT and Goal work: Complete
MIT: Make home fries, buy Rosetta Stone Software, play a game of chess with Derek.
Tuesday, January 18, 2011
Learning a new Language
Gratuity: Listening to my mom tell her interesting and hilarious stories.
Goal Work: If you can speak three languages you're trilingual. If you can speak two languages you're bilingual. If you can speak only one language you're an American. ~Author Unknown
So I want to learn a new language. There are lots of reason to do so. I am not sure which is the real compelling reason.
Awaken: 07:53AM
MIT and Goals: Complete
MIT: Look into Language Learning Software, Water Plants, Clean out 1 kitchen draw.
Goal Work: If you can speak three languages you're trilingual. If you can speak two languages you're bilingual. If you can speak only one language you're an American. ~Author Unknown
So I want to learn a new language. There are lots of reason to do so. I am not sure which is the real compelling reason.
- It is suppose to be great exercise for the older mind.
- Learning a different language forces you to think in that language. It pushes your mind to make new connections between ideas, phrases, and thought patterns that never would have been pushed. (taken from Jonathan Mead's Post in Zen Habits.)
- Folks are always complaining that immigrants should learn English. My reaction is don't complain about others but decide what you can do for yourself. If folks won't learn English then we can learn Spanish.
- Maybe someday it will help me with employment.
- Maybe someday I can use it to help those less fortunate then me.
- It will make me less of an obnoxious American.
Awaken: 07:53AM
MIT and Goals: Complete
MIT: Look into Language Learning Software, Water Plants, Clean out 1 kitchen draw.
Monday, January 17, 2011
Start of the year Weigh-in
Gratuity: Playing board games with family and friends
Goal Work: People are so worried about what they eat between Christmas and the New Year, but they really should be worried about what they eat between the New Year and Christmas. ~Author Unknown
I am obese but I have lost between 30 and 50 pounds over the last two years. My immediate goal is to get under 200 pounds and no longer be considered officially obese. Amazing that the thought of just being fat feels like a major achievement. Until Thanksgiving I had been having many small successes and had reached 202. Then the holidays came and I ate more than I should. Today I stepped on the scale for the first time. Drum roll....The damage is 212 pounds. I gained 10 pounds over the holidays but I remembered today's quote and realize that what is important is that I get back on track. Every Sunday I am going to weigh and record my official weight. I am hoping by spring or sooner I will have achieved my goal weight. My best bet will be to accomplish this by eating lots of salads and raw food, drinking lots of water, eating just a small amount of cooked food, and staying on track with my exercise. I think Joel Furhman's diet using foods that are nutritionally dense is the closest I have found to a diet that speaks to and works for me.
Awaken: 7:59AM
MIT and Goals: Completed. I did not finish putting away Christmas decorations but I did enough to feel accomplishment.
MIT: FINISH putting away Christmas decorations, review last years finances, call mom
Goal Work: People are so worried about what they eat between Christmas and the New Year, but they really should be worried about what they eat between the New Year and Christmas. ~Author Unknown
I am obese but I have lost between 30 and 50 pounds over the last two years. My immediate goal is to get under 200 pounds and no longer be considered officially obese. Amazing that the thought of just being fat feels like a major achievement. Until Thanksgiving I had been having many small successes and had reached 202. Then the holidays came and I ate more than I should. Today I stepped on the scale for the first time. Drum roll....The damage is 212 pounds. I gained 10 pounds over the holidays but I remembered today's quote and realize that what is important is that I get back on track. Every Sunday I am going to weigh and record my official weight. I am hoping by spring or sooner I will have achieved my goal weight. My best bet will be to accomplish this by eating lots of salads and raw food, drinking lots of water, eating just a small amount of cooked food, and staying on track with my exercise. I think Joel Furhman's diet using foods that are nutritionally dense is the closest I have found to a diet that speaks to and works for me.
Awaken: 7:59AM
MIT and Goals: Completed. I did not finish putting away Christmas decorations but I did enough to feel accomplishment.
MIT: FINISH putting away Christmas decorations, review last years finances, call mom
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Shrimp Toast dancing in my head
Gratuity: Baking with those you love. Pretzels anyone?
Awaken: 07:59AM
Goals and MIT: Messed up with my food. No evening salad; chinese food instead. I was really proud of myself that I started my MIT putting Christmas stuff away later in the evening and got a lot accomplished as Allen and Derek also pitched in.
MIT: Return Sweater, put the rest of the Christmas stuff away. Buy vaccume recommended by the cleaning lady, buy some apples and more veggies/salad stuff.
Goal Work: Perhaps "All things in moderation" should be replaced by "Enjoy anything, including excess, as long as there is no addiction." --Tim Ferriss
I sit here feeling like shit with a ball of greasy chinese food sitting in my bloated stomach. My husband came in last night asking if I wanted chinese food. My immediate reply was no way. As he left the room, visions of spring rolls, noodles, and shrimp toast danced in my head. I visioned the smell that would envelope the house when he came back. I could not stand it. I ran after him figuring an appetizer would quench the desire. Get me some Crab Rangoons I called out. Then another voice said "and also some Shrimp Toast". An hour later I finished off the Crab Rangoons, Shrimp Toast, a mystery Shrimp appetizer and a lot of my son's Flat Noodles. I HATE MYSELF. I am addicted.
I sit here feeling like shit with a ball of greasy chinese food sitting in my bloated stomach. My husband came in last night asking if I wanted chinese food. My immediate reply was no way. As he left the room, visions of spring rolls, noodles, and shrimp toast danced in my head. I visioned the smell that would envelope the house when he came back. I could not stand it. I ran after him figuring an appetizer would quench the desire. Get me some Crab Rangoons I called out. Then another voice said "and also some Shrimp Toast". An hour later I finished off the Crab Rangoons, Shrimp Toast, a mystery Shrimp appetizer and a lot of my son's Flat Noodles. I HATE MYSELF. I am addicted.
So I have decided that I must go cold turkey err I mean cold chinese food (I'm a vegetarian) until I am no longer obese. I will also ask my husband to do his Chinese Food excursions on the sly. Either eat out or bring it in very quietly.
I also found an easy technique called EFT that is suppose to help with food craving. This is something I am going to look into.
Awaken: 07:59AM
Goals and MIT: Messed up with my food. No evening salad; chinese food instead. I was really proud of myself that I started my MIT putting Christmas stuff away later in the evening and got a lot accomplished as Allen and Derek also pitched in.
MIT: Return Sweater, put the rest of the Christmas stuff away. Buy vaccume recommended by the cleaning lady, buy some apples and more veggies/salad stuff.
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Running
Gratuity: Endorphins
Goal Work:
This is your moment and every single minute you spend trying to hold on to it
cause you may never get it again
So while you're in it try to get as much shit as you can
and when your run is over just admit when its as its end -- Eminem
I am not built for running. I would call myself a big girl; tall and quite overweight; obese actually but hopefully not for much longer. I am not sure why I run as my chosen exercise, but I do. I guess because it is so simple. Simple but not easy. I will never be any good at it but that is not the point. The point is the endorphins that running gives me. Yes it is called the runners high and yes I do experience it. I have always looked with envy at my neighbors and son as they raced in 5K events. Eventually my family goated me into running my first 5K in 2009. I have slowly (as in Penguin) run 6 more 5K events. My time has improved from 42+ to 36+ minutes. I dream of doing a 10 minute mile and a 30+ minute 5K. The dream is quite far away but the endorphins keep me plugging away. I also know if I could drop 40 more pounds I would get much faster. There are a number of idea in this article entitled 63 Ways to shake up your running routine that I plan to try out during the year.
Awaken: 07:57
MIT and Goals: Completed in a way. I just realized that I have forgotten to do my 15minute cleanup before I go to bed. I will have to get on it.
MIT: Put away Christmas items, Remind Heather to call the dentist, bake pretzels with Derek
Goal Work:
This is your moment and every single minute you spend trying to hold on to it
cause you may never get it again
So while you're in it try to get as much shit as you can
and when your run is over just admit when its as its end -- Eminem
I am not built for running. I would call myself a big girl; tall and quite overweight; obese actually but hopefully not for much longer. I am not sure why I run as my chosen exercise, but I do. I guess because it is so simple. Simple but not easy. I will never be any good at it but that is not the point. The point is the endorphins that running gives me. Yes it is called the runners high and yes I do experience it. I have always looked with envy at my neighbors and son as they raced in 5K events. Eventually my family goated me into running my first 5K in 2009. I have slowly (as in Penguin) run 6 more 5K events. My time has improved from 42+ to 36+ minutes. I dream of doing a 10 minute mile and a 30+ minute 5K. The dream is quite far away but the endorphins keep me plugging away. I also know if I could drop 40 more pounds I would get much faster. There are a number of idea in this article entitled 63 Ways to shake up your running routine that I plan to try out during the year.
Awaken: 07:57
MIT and Goals: Completed in a way. I just realized that I have forgotten to do my 15minute cleanup before I go to bed. I will have to get on it.
MIT: Put away Christmas items, Remind Heather to call the dentist, bake pretzels with Derek
Friday, January 14, 2011
A Clean House
Gratuity: Childhood Memories
Goals: It is important to ask for help when you need it. Never think that you have to carry your burdens by yourself. The strongest people are the ones who are humble enough to realize that they cannot do it all on their own, and they need support and advice from others - Unknown
A clean house was next to godliness for my dad and my grandmother but my mom was an abysmal house cleaner and I have followed in her footsteps. The shame of a dirty house was instilled in me by my dad and grandmother and I have always hated the fact that I suck at housecleaning. It has detrimentally effected my life. It seems that because I don't clean as I go, I spend every weekend cleaning instead of doing things to improve my life. I would love to entertain but never do because I am afraid my house will gross out my guests. Last year I told myself I was going to make having a clean house a priority but it just did not happen. This year I have decided to get help and plan to hire a house cleaner to come once a week for three hours. I hope it will be the kick start that I need.
I also know I need to change my mind set. When I set out to accomplish a task I never think of the cleanup as part of the task. For example I would never make Thanksgiving dinner and not finish the mashed potatoes or put out the olives and pickles but often it is literally days before everything is cleaned up from the Thanksgiving meal. I need to conjure up the strength to finish the cleaning the same way I complete the meal. I also remember my mom mentioned that my Grandmother was incapable of stepping over something out of place on the floor and I remember my sister talking about the horrible haunting feeling she had during the day when she had forgotten to make her bed. If I could figure out how to embrace these thought processes, I think I could be successful.
Hopefully next year I will be able to invite the ghost of my Grandmother to my house and she will be proud of my housekeeping abilities.
Awaken: 07:51AM
Goals and MIT: Completed except I did forget to put my boots back in their place.
MIT: Call about House Cleaner, Call about Derek PF Bill, Order Cat ScatMats
Goals: It is important to ask for help when you need it. Never think that you have to carry your burdens by yourself. The strongest people are the ones who are humble enough to realize that they cannot do it all on their own, and they need support and advice from others - Unknown
A clean house was next to godliness for my dad and my grandmother but my mom was an abysmal house cleaner and I have followed in her footsteps. The shame of a dirty house was instilled in me by my dad and grandmother and I have always hated the fact that I suck at housecleaning. It has detrimentally effected my life. It seems that because I don't clean as I go, I spend every weekend cleaning instead of doing things to improve my life. I would love to entertain but never do because I am afraid my house will gross out my guests. Last year I told myself I was going to make having a clean house a priority but it just did not happen. This year I have decided to get help and plan to hire a house cleaner to come once a week for three hours. I hope it will be the kick start that I need.
I also know I need to change my mind set. When I set out to accomplish a task I never think of the cleanup as part of the task. For example I would never make Thanksgiving dinner and not finish the mashed potatoes or put out the olives and pickles but often it is literally days before everything is cleaned up from the Thanksgiving meal. I need to conjure up the strength to finish the cleaning the same way I complete the meal. I also remember my mom mentioned that my Grandmother was incapable of stepping over something out of place on the floor and I remember my sister talking about the horrible haunting feeling she had during the day when she had forgotten to make her bed. If I could figure out how to embrace these thought processes, I think I could be successful.
Hopefully next year I will be able to invite the ghost of my Grandmother to my house and she will be proud of my housekeeping abilities.
Awaken: 07:51AM
Goals and MIT: Completed except I did forget to put my boots back in their place.
MIT: Call about House Cleaner, Call about Derek PF Bill, Order Cat ScatMats
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Yoga
Gratuity: A simple stretch
Goals:
Yoga was not an activity that I was intrinsically drawn to. It seemed too slow and obtuse for me, but a voice inside of me (or maybe it was just main stream media) told me it was something that would be valuable to me. Sort of a Yin to my TaeKwonDo Yang. I signed up and hated it. It was slow, it was actually very hard, the people in the studio seemed so cold compared to the friendly folks at TaeKwonDo. I quit but then started again. I told myself the stretching really would be valuable to me. Now months later Yoga has really grown on me. Some of the poses that seemed impossible at first are now easy. I am not sure how it happened but I find in times of stress that I am breathing differently. When I am stressed or tired a simple Yoga pose will help to alleviate the stress or wake me up. It has helped my concentration a bit. I just read an article in TIME magazine that said Meditation (which is part of Yoga) is really good for improving mind function. It has been a journey but I am now a Yoga enthusiast and can identify with these 108 reasons to practice Yoga.
Awaken: 07:55AM
MIT and Goals: Complete. Yoga Instructors were on vacation but I did Yoga by DVD instead.
MIT: Cook Butternut Squash Soup, Rolls, and Empanadas
Goals:
The beauty is that people often come here for the stretch, and leave with a lot more. --Liza Ciano
Yoga was not an activity that I was intrinsically drawn to. It seemed too slow and obtuse for me, but a voice inside of me (or maybe it was just main stream media) told me it was something that would be valuable to me. Sort of a Yin to my TaeKwonDo Yang. I signed up and hated it. It was slow, it was actually very hard, the people in the studio seemed so cold compared to the friendly folks at TaeKwonDo. I quit but then started again. I told myself the stretching really would be valuable to me. Now months later Yoga has really grown on me. Some of the poses that seemed impossible at first are now easy. I am not sure how it happened but I find in times of stress that I am breathing differently. When I am stressed or tired a simple Yoga pose will help to alleviate the stress or wake me up. It has helped my concentration a bit. I just read an article in TIME magazine that said Meditation (which is part of Yoga) is really good for improving mind function. It has been a journey but I am now a Yoga enthusiast and can identify with these 108 reasons to practice Yoga.
Awaken: 07:55AM
MIT and Goals: Complete. Yoga Instructors were on vacation but I did Yoga by DVD instead.
MIT: Cook Butternut Squash Soup, Rolls, and Empanadas
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
TaeKwonDo
Gratuity: The ability to get excited.
Goals: "It is not the accumulation of extraneous knowledge, but the realization of the self within, that constitutes true progress." - Okakura Kakuzo
I practiced TaeKwonDo for 1 month when I was fifteen but then I stopped because there was no money. 33 years later I have taken the practice up again and I am loving it. I am not sure why it pulls me but it does. I love the precision of the forms. I love going from totally perplexed to mastery of the form. I love the fear of missing a class. I love the nervousness before I am tested. I love the diversity of ages and abilities in the class. I love the friendly encouragement by others in the class. I love the competency of the head instructor. I love the pride of the young apprentice instructors. I love the successful breaking of boards. I love the situps, pushups, and other training activities. I love that the class is only a few minutes away. I love the concept that is intrinsic in TaeKwondo of naturally breaking down a major goal into minor goals. As you can see TaeKwonDo fits my personality and I think this fit helps it to support me in other goals I also wish to attain. Finding activities and interests that fit your true self help to support everything in your life. By the way I am currently a Purple Belt decided practicing at Robinson's TaeKown Do and in approximately one year I should be testing for my first degree blackbelt. Yeah me!!
Awaken: 07:51AM
Goals and MIT: Completed; Nice to be back to my routine
MIT: Put together TaeKwonDo belt display, buy cat food, fill out medical reimbursement form
Goals: "It is not the accumulation of extraneous knowledge, but the realization of the self within, that constitutes true progress." - Okakura Kakuzo
I practiced TaeKwonDo for 1 month when I was fifteen but then I stopped because there was no money. 33 years later I have taken the practice up again and I am loving it. I am not sure why it pulls me but it does. I love the precision of the forms. I love going from totally perplexed to mastery of the form. I love the fear of missing a class. I love the nervousness before I am tested. I love the diversity of ages and abilities in the class. I love the friendly encouragement by others in the class. I love the competency of the head instructor. I love the pride of the young apprentice instructors. I love the successful breaking of boards. I love the situps, pushups, and other training activities. I love that the class is only a few minutes away. I love the concept that is intrinsic in TaeKwondo of naturally breaking down a major goal into minor goals. As you can see TaeKwonDo fits my personality and I think this fit helps it to support me in other goals I also wish to attain. Finding activities and interests that fit your true self help to support everything in your life. By the way I am currently a Purple Belt decided practicing at Robinson's TaeKown Do and in approximately one year I should be testing for my first degree blackbelt. Yeah me!!
Awaken: 07:51AM
Goals and MIT: Completed; Nice to be back to my routine
MIT: Put together TaeKwonDo belt display, buy cat food, fill out medical reimbursement form
Monday, January 10, 2011
Fail -- what happens in Las Vegas stays in Las Vegas.
Gratuity: Second Chances
Goal Work: "Success consists of getting up just one more time than you fall" - Oliver Goldsmith
I just got back from an awesome trip to Las Vegas to celebrate Heather's and Derek's 21st Birthday. Unfortunately the awesomeness of the trip was matched by my inability to follow through on my goals. I ate way too much food and spent way too much money. Thanks goodness for second chances!
Highlights of the trip
3 Cirque du soleil shows (Love (the best), Mystere, KA)
Learning to play craps and winning (and losing) with Heather.
Learning how little I knew about BlackJack and turning that around to play some decent games.
5 Buffets in one day with Derek.
Penn and Teller Magic show.
Watching Allen light up as he talked about his Roulette winnings!
Shopping with Heather.
Eating (Sea Blue, RM Seafood, Jiulian Serrano, Border Grill) at gourmet restaurants.
Signature Hotel.
Pawn Stars.
View from Hotel and all the exquisite hotel architectures and ambiances (especially the fountains at the Bellagio).
Swimming outside and meeting crazy folks from Australia.
Conversation with those I met in the airplane, at craps, and at numerous restaurants.
Awaken: 7:53AM
MIT: Unpack, straighten house, buy salad items
Books Completed: Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson
Goal Work: "Success consists of getting up just one more time than you fall" - Oliver Goldsmith
I just got back from an awesome trip to Las Vegas to celebrate Heather's and Derek's 21st Birthday. Unfortunately the awesomeness of the trip was matched by my inability to follow through on my goals. I ate way too much food and spent way too much money. Thanks goodness for second chances!
Highlights of the trip
3 Cirque du soleil shows (Love (the best), Mystere, KA)
Learning to play craps and winning (and losing) with Heather.
Learning how little I knew about BlackJack and turning that around to play some decent games.
5 Buffets in one day with Derek.
Penn and Teller Magic show.
Watching Allen light up as he talked about his Roulette winnings!
Shopping with Heather.
Eating (Sea Blue, RM Seafood, Jiulian Serrano, Border Grill) at gourmet restaurants.
Signature Hotel.
Pawn Stars.
View from Hotel and all the exquisite hotel architectures and ambiances (especially the fountains at the Bellagio).
Swimming outside and meeting crazy folks from Australia.
Conversation with those I met in the airplane, at craps, and at numerous restaurants.
Awaken: 7:53AM
MIT: Unpack, straighten house, buy salad items
Books Completed: Three Cups of Tea by Greg Mortenson
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