No sooner had we decided we loved the name Zoey when my Aunt Minnie pointed out that Dad surely would have wanted the pup to have a first name that started with a "K" and the middle name of "Jo." It's a tradition for the females in our family, and as you all know by now, my father loved traditions.
We threw around tons of different names at Minnie's CAbi party. (A quick digression, for those not in the know: CAbi stands for Carol Anderson by Invitation. It is a clothing line sold through house parties, and Minnie's daughter - my cousin Lynn - is a sales consultant. Check out her website - the Spring/Summer line is WAY cute! We are having a party at our house in late April, to give me as much time as possible to get down another size or two before I blow a paycheck on a new wardrobe).
Anyway, since we were at a CAbi party, we thought "Why not name her Kabi with a 'K'?" As silly as that sounds, everyone loved it and the name stuck.
So Kabi Jo it is. We just took her in to get spayed yesterday - the poor thing is not a happy camper. But even when she's miserable, she's still as sweet and cute as can be.
Thank you, Daddy!
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Meet Zoey(?)
Okay, so we haven't officially decided on a name yet, but seeing as our little Valentine's present is still around and no one else has claimed her, we're all getting very comfortable with the idea of her staying put. My sister even took her to the vet to get her shots updated and get a clean bill of health. Ladies and gentlemen, here is our 5 (or so)-year old Chihuahua mix sweetpea-of-a-dog:
With my mom and sister.
Tonight we started genuinely tossing around ideas on what to call her. We wanted something Valentine-themed, considering when we found her and in honor of the idea that Daddy had something to do with bringing her into our lives at this time. Our friend Elizabeth proposed "Corazón" (which is "heart" in Spanish) and just calling her Zoey for short. We like it.
Any other ideas, before we settle on this one?
With my mom and sister.Tonight we started genuinely tossing around ideas on what to call her. We wanted something Valentine-themed, considering when we found her and in honor of the idea that Daddy had something to do with bringing her into our lives at this time. Our friend Elizabeth proposed "Corazón" (which is "heart" in Spanish) and just calling her Zoey for short. We like it.
Any other ideas, before we settle on this one?
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Valentine From Daddy
Valentine's day was a toughie. I sent my mom flowers and we ordered sushi and just laid low for the evening. But the best part was that we have a new (but probably temporary) furry addition to the family.
Driving home from step class, we saw a little dog in the road who looked very frightened, so we pulled over to check its tags and call its owner. To our dismay, there was no collar! Although it took some coaxing, pretty soon the little sweetie was following me home and eventually allowed me to pick her up.
We called the animal shelter and they scanned her for an ID chip. Nada. So they have our contact information in case anyone calls missing their little dog. Legally the owners only have 5 days to claim her but of course we'd give her back if they tracked her down.
In the meantime, we get to keep her! It's been a joy - she is the most cuddly little dog I've ever seen. She's older, already house-trained and very obedient. People have been encouraging my mom to get a dog for months and she has always protested. But this little one is a gem so maybe, just maybe....
Our last dog Kenzie was also found wandering the streets when my dad went out for sushi. Ironically, we were headed out for sushi this time too. Not to mention the fact that we found our new little friend on February 14th. Maybe Dad managed to send us a Valentine after all...
Driving home from step class, we saw a little dog in the road who looked very frightened, so we pulled over to check its tags and call its owner. To our dismay, there was no collar! Although it took some coaxing, pretty soon the little sweetie was following me home and eventually allowed me to pick her up.
We called the animal shelter and they scanned her for an ID chip. Nada. So they have our contact information in case anyone calls missing their little dog. Legally the owners only have 5 days to claim her but of course we'd give her back if they tracked her down.
In the meantime, we get to keep her! It's been a joy - she is the most cuddly little dog I've ever seen. She's older, already house-trained and very obedient. People have been encouraging my mom to get a dog for months and she has always protested. But this little one is a gem so maybe, just maybe....
Our last dog Kenzie was also found wandering the streets when my dad went out for sushi. Ironically, we were headed out for sushi this time too. Not to mention the fact that we found our new little friend on February 14th. Maybe Dad managed to send us a Valentine after all...
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
The "D-Word"
One significant chapter of my life is coming to a close. After trying valiantly for 2.5 years, I've decided to end my marriage. The divorce process is underway and it is a bittersweet experience. Thank God I can file here in California, which does not have an antiquated law like North Carolina's about having to be physically separated for a year before even being able to petition.
The writing has been on the wall for a long time, even before my father got sick last year. Through a combination of tragic experiences, culture clashes and financial stress, we found ourselves drifting apart. And the harder we both tried to fix things, the worse it got because our methods of trying to mend fences were completely opposite. When I moved here last summer, I knew that the months apart would be the final straw.
My friend pointed out to me the other day that we got married somewhat under duress because it was either get hitched or don't be together, thanks to immigration policies that required us to say our vows within 90 days of his arrival with a K-1 fiance visa. Under "normal" circumstances, we would have lived together and realized that it just wasn't working long before I walked down that aisle.
I married him because I genuinely believed I would spend my life with him (and have ADORABLE children). I loved him then, and always will. The problems were never about disliking each other or fighting all the time. There is just a fundamental incompatibility (not only due to cultural differences) that cannot be bridged no matter how hard we have tried. Our fondness for one another is not enough to make a marriage work. But we like and respect each other enough that I hope we have laid the foundation for a lasting and fond friendship.
So what's next for Teeny Jo? I take back my maiden name (never to be legally changed again, thankyouverymuch). I focus on healing from a hell of a 2007. I keep up the healthy choices and focus on how to make sure I never again let others control my emotions and self-perception. I resume my pursuit of my vocation in nursing. I dip my toe back into the dating pool, but only ever so gingerly. That's the worst part of divorce, in my opinion. You automatically have your guard up against every new guy that comes along. I am willing to give it another go but "Caution" signs abound.
But still, 2008 continues to be the year of the Teeny. I am thankful for that.
The writing has been on the wall for a long time, even before my father got sick last year. Through a combination of tragic experiences, culture clashes and financial stress, we found ourselves drifting apart. And the harder we both tried to fix things, the worse it got because our methods of trying to mend fences were completely opposite. When I moved here last summer, I knew that the months apart would be the final straw.
My friend pointed out to me the other day that we got married somewhat under duress because it was either get hitched or don't be together, thanks to immigration policies that required us to say our vows within 90 days of his arrival with a K-1 fiance visa. Under "normal" circumstances, we would have lived together and realized that it just wasn't working long before I walked down that aisle.
I married him because I genuinely believed I would spend my life with him (and have ADORABLE children). I loved him then, and always will. The problems were never about disliking each other or fighting all the time. There is just a fundamental incompatibility (not only due to cultural differences) that cannot be bridged no matter how hard we have tried. Our fondness for one another is not enough to make a marriage work. But we like and respect each other enough that I hope we have laid the foundation for a lasting and fond friendship.
So what's next for Teeny Jo? I take back my maiden name (never to be legally changed again, thankyouverymuch). I focus on healing from a hell of a 2007. I keep up the healthy choices and focus on how to make sure I never again let others control my emotions and self-perception. I resume my pursuit of my vocation in nursing. I dip my toe back into the dating pool, but only ever so gingerly. That's the worst part of divorce, in my opinion. You automatically have your guard up against every new guy that comes along. I am willing to give it another go but "Caution" signs abound.
But still, 2008 continues to be the year of the Teeny. I am thankful for that.
Sunday, February 10, 2008
Family Wedding
Saturday was a GREAT day! Not only did Obama sweep Nebraska, Louisiana, Washington, AND the U.S. Virgin Islands, but I got to attend my cousin Ashley's wedding.
It was a lovely ceremony, the bride and groom were blissfully happy (we all LOVE the groom and his family!), and there was much dancing, eating, and drinking to be had. The band was fabulous. What a party!
The fam.
Cousins!
Mr. and Mrs. "Chalmerington".
I just realized that of the many weddings I attended in Durham, most of them were as an assistant wedding director. It was great fun to be a guest for a change! I did recognize the wedding coordinators right off the bat by the frazzled looks on their faces.
The insane part is, I actually really miss that job! I'm excited to have a dear friend getting married at Duke Chapel in June, and I get to help. Just like the good ol' days!
It was a lovely ceremony, the bride and groom were blissfully happy (we all LOVE the groom and his family!), and there was much dancing, eating, and drinking to be had. The band was fabulous. What a party!
The fam.
Cousins!
Mr. and Mrs. "Chalmerington".I just realized that of the many weddings I attended in Durham, most of them were as an assistant wedding director. It was great fun to be a guest for a change! I did recognize the wedding coordinators right off the bat by the frazzled looks on their faces.
The insane part is, I actually really miss that job! I'm excited to have a dear friend getting married at Duke Chapel in June, and I get to help. Just like the good ol' days!
Wednesday, February 06, 2008
Let's Go Devils!
Round 1 goes to Duke!!
I watched the game with my good friends Brent and Emily. We've known them forever - their son and I grew up together, and their daughter and my sister are still best friends.
Papa Brent 'n me...
Because they're like family, I'll forgive the fact that Em went to Carolina. :) They invited me to join them at a local sports bar, where we amicably shook hands and agreed that whoever won, neither of us would gloat. When we arrived, I realized it was a UNC alumni event!!! Needless to say, I was the only one with a smile on my face as the final minutes wound down. I'm sure I drew some ire and will probably not be invited back. But it felt so good to (quietly) cheer in a room filled with Carolina blue!
In one month and two days, the rivalry will move up Highway 15-501 to Cameron Indoor Stadium for the last game of the regular season. Oooh, will it be a doozy!!!
I watched the game with my good friends Brent and Emily. We've known them forever - their son and I grew up together, and their daughter and my sister are still best friends.
Papa Brent 'n me...Because they're like family, I'll forgive the fact that Em went to Carolina. :) They invited me to join them at a local sports bar, where we amicably shook hands and agreed that whoever won, neither of us would gloat. When we arrived, I realized it was a UNC alumni event!!! Needless to say, I was the only one with a smile on my face as the final minutes wound down. I'm sure I drew some ire and will probably not be invited back. But it felt so good to (quietly) cheer in a room filled with Carolina blue!
In one month and two days, the rivalry will move up Highway 15-501 to Cameron Indoor Stadium for the last game of the regular season. Oooh, will it be a doozy!!!
Tuesday, February 05, 2008
Go To Hell, Carolina!
I may have moved back to the West Coast, but I will be a Cameron Crazie 'til the day I die!!
Tomorrow is round 1 of the Duke-Carolina rivalry. I'll be at the local sports bar with my friends (Tar Heels, horror of horrors).
It's going to be a great game!
Super Tuesday!
Waking up this morning, I was like a kid at Christmas. What a momentous day to be an American! We get to make history today.
I'll be voting for Barack Obama. For anyone who is still undecided, I encourage you to watch this video and think about who will be the best person to lead and heal our country.
But whoever you choose, GET OUT THERE AND VOTE!!
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
The Suitcase of Hope
In honor of surpassing my 30-pounds lost milestone (go me!), I thought it was time to share about my suitcase of hope...
Over the past couple of years, as I steadily gained weight thanks to the combined forces of emotional eating, depression and a complete lack of physical activity, I began stashing away some of my favorite outfits that just didn't fit anymore. When I decided to move home to California, I donated some of these clothes, threw away the ones that were old/ripped and of no use to anyone, and packed the rest of them into a suitcase that I then stored in my mother's closet. I resolved that before I moved again, I would fit back into those clothes.
I don't think I'm quite there yet. But I'm thinking perhaps it's time I start taking out one item a week and hanging it in my closet. There's nothing like wanting to fit back into a super cute outfit for a little extra motivation!
Over the past couple of years, as I steadily gained weight thanks to the combined forces of emotional eating, depression and a complete lack of physical activity, I began stashing away some of my favorite outfits that just didn't fit anymore. When I decided to move home to California, I donated some of these clothes, threw away the ones that were old/ripped and of no use to anyone, and packed the rest of them into a suitcase that I then stored in my mother's closet. I resolved that before I moved again, I would fit back into those clothes.
I don't think I'm quite there yet. But I'm thinking perhaps it's time I start taking out one item a week and hanging it in my closet. There's nothing like wanting to fit back into a super cute outfit for a little extra motivation!
Sunday, January 27, 2008
The Year of the Doctor
Someday, when I'm all grown up and have a better sense of humor about life's trials and tribulations, I will look back on these moments with a fond smile and an amused shake of my head.
But for now, I am PISSED! I woke up this morning with a roaring headache - too much wine last night, perhaps? So I took a Motrin and got on with my day. By the time I was sitting at the movies with my friend, I couldn't stop coughing. By the time I got home, I was ready to be horizontal on the couch. My entire body ached and I was burning up. Why? Because apparently I have 102-degree fever!!!!
This is the second time in my young adult life I actually got the flu vaccine, and the second year in the same time span that I have had the flu this bad. Guess when I got sick the last time? The last time I got vaccinated! That mother took almost three weeks to get over. And thus far, this one is worse.
Not that I would use my bad luck to discourage the flu vaccine. As a future health care worker, I know how important it is and I know that statistically, I was bound to get sick at some point anyway.
But I'll be damned.
But for now, I am PISSED! I woke up this morning with a roaring headache - too much wine last night, perhaps? So I took a Motrin and got on with my day. By the time I was sitting at the movies with my friend, I couldn't stop coughing. By the time I got home, I was ready to be horizontal on the couch. My entire body ached and I was burning up. Why? Because apparently I have 102-degree fever!!!!
This is the second time in my young adult life I actually got the flu vaccine, and the second year in the same time span that I have had the flu this bad. Guess when I got sick the last time? The last time I got vaccinated! That mother took almost three weeks to get over. And thus far, this one is worse.
Not that I would use my bad luck to discourage the flu vaccine. As a future health care worker, I know how important it is and I know that statistically, I was bound to get sick at some point anyway.
But I'll be damned.
Friday, January 25, 2008
Precious Angel
My cousin and his amazing wife welcomed their second daughter Madison into the world last November. She had a lot of breathing problems from the beginning and was ultimately diagnosed with campomelic dysplasia, a rare genetic disorder that is usually fatal before age 1.
Madison had been home for a while before she was readmitted to the hospital about a week ago and was then moved to a beautiful pediatric hospice facility called George Mark Children's House. It's the kind of place I'd like to work at some day when I become a nurse.
Here is a video of her and her older sister Makayla right before she went back in the hospital...
After 2 1/2 months of cherishing every moment and pouring their hearts into their family, they said farewell to precious little Madison this morning. She passed away in her mother's arms, surrounded by her father and brave big sister.
As the second major tragedy to affect my father's side of the family in less than a year, this one hit everyone hard.
But the love and strength of my family take my breath away. We are truly blessed to have each other...
Madison had been home for a while before she was readmitted to the hospital about a week ago and was then moved to a beautiful pediatric hospice facility called George Mark Children's House. It's the kind of place I'd like to work at some day when I become a nurse.
Here is a video of her and her older sister Makayla right before she went back in the hospital...
After 2 1/2 months of cherishing every moment and pouring their hearts into their family, they said farewell to precious little Madison this morning. She passed away in her mother's arms, surrounded by her father and brave big sister.
As the second major tragedy to affect my father's side of the family in less than a year, this one hit everyone hard.
But the love and strength of my family take my breath away. We are truly blessed to have each other...
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Creaky Knees
So I decided today that since I've been working so hard and seeing good results, I was ready for the infamous "Step and Sculpt with Nancy" class at the gym. My mom and sister, who are regulars, as well as Nancy herself, have all been encouraging me to come for the last couple weeks. So my boss and I decided we would try it together.
Well, it kicked my a**!!! I'm going to hurt in entirely new places tomorrow. She dumbed it down for us and I still missed a bunch of steps.
But boy am I addicted to the endorphin rush that follows a good workout! And I am sure as hell going back Thursday for the next class. The combination of fitness, coordination and balance is a fantastic challenge, especially considering that she also throws in a good 20 minutes of strength training and ab work at the end. What I loved is that when she could see we were getting tired, she exclaimed "Yes you can!" and it gave us that extra bit of motivation to finish a sequence or keep doing those impossible arm lifts.
Tomorrow morning Ari and I begin our twice-weekly morning walk routine. Gotta keep it up - spring is just around the corner. And nursing school soon after, which will take a lot of physical strength and endurance!
Coming soon: a blog about my "suitcase of hope".
Well, it kicked my a**!!! I'm going to hurt in entirely new places tomorrow. She dumbed it down for us and I still missed a bunch of steps.
But boy am I addicted to the endorphin rush that follows a good workout! And I am sure as hell going back Thursday for the next class. The combination of fitness, coordination and balance is a fantastic challenge, especially considering that she also throws in a good 20 minutes of strength training and ab work at the end. What I loved is that when she could see we were getting tired, she exclaimed "Yes you can!" and it gave us that extra bit of motivation to finish a sequence or keep doing those impossible arm lifts.
Tomorrow morning Ari and I begin our twice-weekly morning walk routine. Gotta keep it up - spring is just around the corner. And nursing school soon after, which will take a lot of physical strength and endurance!
Coming soon: a blog about my "suitcase of hope".
Sunday, January 20, 2008
Paradise Found
Photos from our adventures - actually, lazy days - on Lana'i...
Hula performance in the Kailani Terrace.
Family moment to match one of our favorite pictures of Daddy...Shaka!
Hula performance in the Kailani Terrace.
Sunset view from our hotel room...
Beautiful Mommy
Headed home :( This plane was awfully small and it was awfully windy that day!
Hyfrydol
Something amazing happened this morning when I went back to church, as I had resolved to do.
After stopping by the cemetery to wish my father a good morning, I headed over to my aunt's Presbyterian church nearby. Our own neighborhood church, where I attended Vacation Bible School and "Preparing for Adolescence" classes, is a little (okay, a lot) on the conservative side and I have wanted for a long time to try something different. I certainly found it.
A progressive, "green" church in a beautiful new building, it is headed by a justice-minded minister whose sermon content reminded me of the pastor back at my beloved church during my college days. The music was gorgeous, the people were welcoming, and it just felt so good to be back.
But by far the most profound moment of the day was the processional hymn: "Love Divine, All Loves Excelling". In the Hyfrydol tune by Rowland H. Pritchard. The exact tune to which I walked down the aisle arm-in-arm with my father on my wedding day. Just as I did when we sang "Joy To the World" at Christmas Eve, I teared up and knew Dad was there.
Out of the hundreds of possible hymns to sing my first day back in church, the appointed song was perfect. The morning was perfect. Daddy would have loved it. I sure did.
After stopping by the cemetery to wish my father a good morning, I headed over to my aunt's Presbyterian church nearby. Our own neighborhood church, where I attended Vacation Bible School and "Preparing for Adolescence" classes, is a little (okay, a lot) on the conservative side and I have wanted for a long time to try something different. I certainly found it.
A progressive, "green" church in a beautiful new building, it is headed by a justice-minded minister whose sermon content reminded me of the pastor back at my beloved church during my college days. The music was gorgeous, the people were welcoming, and it just felt so good to be back.
But by far the most profound moment of the day was the processional hymn: "Love Divine, All Loves Excelling". In the Hyfrydol tune by Rowland H. Pritchard. The exact tune to which I walked down the aisle arm-in-arm with my father on my wedding day. Just as I did when we sang "Joy To the World" at Christmas Eve, I teared up and knew Dad was there.
Out of the hundreds of possible hymns to sing my first day back in church, the appointed song was perfect. The morning was perfect. Daddy would have loved it. I sure did.
Saturday, January 19, 2008
Porque, Queso?
Well I may be against the concept of "blowing it" as far as healthy eating is concerned, but that doesn't mean I can't kick myself when I forget/overlook the fact that I no longer have a gallbladder.
Tonight we dined with my aunt and uncle at our favorite hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant. The best margaritas in town! For some reason I was all over the free chips. Then my uncle ordered a big plate of extremely cheesy nachos with guacamole. Yum! I gobbled those puppies down like there was no tomorrow. As did everyone else. By the time our actual dinner came (which I smartly shared with my mom), we were all stuffed.
And then my body rebelled. "Teenyjo, how the hell can I digest this stuff without a gallbladder?" it scolded. We had to cut the festivities short because my stomach couldn't take it anymore.
The way I see it, my gallbladder removal was like an insurance policy against making unhealthy food decisions. And tonight, my premiums went up. But I'll drink some water and take a long walk in the morning, and all will be well.
Next time, just say no to nachos! Feeling this crappy is enough of a deterrent!!
Tonight we dined with my aunt and uncle at our favorite hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant. The best margaritas in town! For some reason I was all over the free chips. Then my uncle ordered a big plate of extremely cheesy nachos with guacamole. Yum! I gobbled those puppies down like there was no tomorrow. As did everyone else. By the time our actual dinner came (which I smartly shared with my mom), we were all stuffed.
And then my body rebelled. "Teenyjo, how the hell can I digest this stuff without a gallbladder?" it scolded. We had to cut the festivities short because my stomach couldn't take it anymore.
The way I see it, my gallbladder removal was like an insurance policy against making unhealthy food decisions. And tonight, my premiums went up. But I'll drink some water and take a long walk in the morning, and all will be well.
Next time, just say no to nachos! Feeling this crappy is enough of a deterrent!!
Friday, January 18, 2008
Metabolic Miracle
So I knew I was going to gain weight in Hawaii - all those alcohol calories have to go somewhere (see below). But thanks to a commitment to exercise daily on my vacation, the scale only tipped a few extra pounds the day I came home.
And to my delight and surprise, as of this morning, I'm already back to where I started before Hawaii. This working out regularly and eating healthy thing has done wonders for my metabolism and I can just feel the energy!
One thing I learned last year...never let someone else dictate your happiness. Since I know I'm an emotional eater, I have to be hyper-aware of how I let situations and people affect me.
And if you're in a crappy mood, go for a walk instead of reaching for a cookie!
And to my delight and surprise, as of this morning, I'm already back to where I started before Hawaii. This working out regularly and eating healthy thing has done wonders for my metabolism and I can just feel the energy!
One thing I learned last year...never let someone else dictate your happiness. Since I know I'm an emotional eater, I have to be hyper-aware of how I let situations and people affect me.
And if you're in a crappy mood, go for a walk instead of reaching for a cookie!
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
Kicking and Screaming
That was my state of mind as I packed and prepared to return home from my new favorite Hawaiian island: Lana'i! Goodbye tropical air, hello marine layer. Alas, real life is not wasting any time, as I have to be back at work tomorrow morning.
Our trip consisted of hikes, great snorkeling in Hulopo'e Bay, a visit to the fabulous spa for an afternoon, venturing to Lana'i "City" (Population: 3,000), lots of fantastic seafood (and the discovery of how many things taste amazing with truffle oil - YUM), and lots of sitting by the pool and soaking in the tropical breezes and bright sunlight. Just what the doctor ordered!
I had two goals for the vacation and I am proud to say I met both of them. The first was to exercise daily. I even did this morning before we checked out! My original thought was that I would love not to gain any weight while away, but I quickly realized how unrealistic that would be given the combination of regular restaurant food and gazillions of calories consumed via alcohol.
Which brings me to my next goal: from the time we checked in to the time we were homeward bound, I was determined not to have the same beverage more than once. Although the mantra "When in Hawai'i, drink mai tais" certainly makes sense, I thought it would make me more adventurous and bring me home with some new concoctions to try when I'm out with friends. I don't normally drink much, but it was certainly fun to have a taste of what turned out to be a DELICIOUS array...
Pictures to come, I promise...
Our trip consisted of hikes, great snorkeling in Hulopo'e Bay, a visit to the fabulous spa for an afternoon, venturing to Lana'i "City" (Population: 3,000), lots of fantastic seafood (and the discovery of how many things taste amazing with truffle oil - YUM), and lots of sitting by the pool and soaking in the tropical breezes and bright sunlight. Just what the doctor ordered!
I had two goals for the vacation and I am proud to say I met both of them. The first was to exercise daily. I even did this morning before we checked out! My original thought was that I would love not to gain any weight while away, but I quickly realized how unrealistic that would be given the combination of regular restaurant food and gazillions of calories consumed via alcohol.
Which brings me to my next goal: from the time we checked in to the time we were homeward bound, I was determined not to have the same beverage more than once. Although the mantra "When in Hawai'i, drink mai tais" certainly makes sense, I thought it would make me more adventurous and bring me home with some new concoctions to try when I'm out with friends. I don't normally drink much, but it was certainly fun to have a taste of what turned out to be a DELICIOUS array...
- Ocean Blue
- Mango-Ginger Mojito
- Hulapo'e Punch
- Orange Passion Mimosa
- Lava Flow
- Chocolate Martini
- Mai Tai
- Pinot Grigio
- Whiskey Sour
- Extra dirty gin martini
- Pinot Noir
- Lemon Twist
- Pineapple Margarita
- Kona Cappucino Freeze
- Cosmopolitan
- Bikini Bellini
- Champagne
- Bloody Mary
Pictures to come, I promise...
Wednesday, January 09, 2008
Aloha!
And we're off, folks! I promise to post pictures when I get back from the beautiful island of Lana'i.
Have a safe and happy weekend and don't do anything I wouldn't do....
Have a safe and happy weekend and don't do anything I wouldn't do....
Tuesday, January 08, 2008
Say Wha'?
Not quite sure where this Hillary win in New Hampshire came from, but I'm determined not to let it get me down. There is a long way to go... :) And it was a super narrow margin so that's a good sign.
Not to mention that I only have one more day of work before I fly off to do the hula, swim with dolphins and sip mai tais on the beach. Nice!
Not to mention that I only have one more day of work before I fly off to do the hula, swim with dolphins and sip mai tais on the beach. Nice!
Monday, January 07, 2008
Vacation, All I Ever Wanted
All I have to do is get through the next three days! Then Thursday morning, the fam heads to the airport and jets off to HAWAII!! I have been awaiting this vacation eagerly since we booked our tickets last fall. We chose to stay on Lana'i because it's a small island with not a whole lot to do, which is exactly the point. This is an escape as well as an adventure; we haven't gotten out of town since Catalina in August and it's time...
My goals for the trip include visiting the gym at least once a day for a good solid workout, reading a lot, eating fresh fruit and seafood morning, noon and night, and finding all of the beverages the hotel serves with little umbrellas. And taking pictures, which I will make sure to post here (at least a few).
In the spirit of vacation indulgence, here's a little ditty from Fit for Life that I found appropriate. And timely - it used to be that if I was naughty and ate something bad for me, I gave up on being healthy for the next several weeks, if not months. But now I'm noticing a new philosophy emerge. For example, I stayed over at a friend's house Saturday night and she ordered a pizza at midnight because she had a craving. Did I eat some of the pizza? Yes. Did I hate myself afterward? No. I went home the next morning, took a long walk with my mom and aunt, and was back to my normal habits. I might have gained a pound with the "slip" but I'll lose it quickly and I don't feel like giving up this time. That's a huge victory in and of itself.
So without further ado, Victoria Moran:
The scenario is, "I ate a [cookie, potato chip, candy bar]. I blew it. So now I have to eat for three days and be really miserable." Remember: there is nothing to blow. You are not on a diet. You had a cookie. Fine. I hope it tasted good. ... The blowing it concept is a setup. It's a mind game overeaters play to give themselves permission to eat for a fix. If you blow it, you have to throw in the towel. Give up. Wallow in remorse. Then you have to face the daunting prospect of starting over: a new diet, another exercise regiment, another monumental undertaking.
My intent for this vacation is not to "blow it." But if I do reach for that dessert plate one night, life is not over. And it feels really good to know that.
My goals for the trip include visiting the gym at least once a day for a good solid workout, reading a lot, eating fresh fruit and seafood morning, noon and night, and finding all of the beverages the hotel serves with little umbrellas. And taking pictures, which I will make sure to post here (at least a few).
In the spirit of vacation indulgence, here's a little ditty from Fit for Life that I found appropriate. And timely - it used to be that if I was naughty and ate something bad for me, I gave up on being healthy for the next several weeks, if not months. But now I'm noticing a new philosophy emerge. For example, I stayed over at a friend's house Saturday night and she ordered a pizza at midnight because she had a craving. Did I eat some of the pizza? Yes. Did I hate myself afterward? No. I went home the next morning, took a long walk with my mom and aunt, and was back to my normal habits. I might have gained a pound with the "slip" but I'll lose it quickly and I don't feel like giving up this time. That's a huge victory in and of itself.
So without further ado, Victoria Moran:
The scenario is, "I ate a [cookie, potato chip, candy bar]. I blew it. So now I have to eat for three days and be really miserable." Remember: there is nothing to blow. You are not on a diet. You had a cookie. Fine. I hope it tasted good. ... The blowing it concept is a setup. It's a mind game overeaters play to give themselves permission to eat for a fix. If you blow it, you have to throw in the towel. Give up. Wallow in remorse. Then you have to face the daunting prospect of starting over: a new diet, another exercise regiment, another monumental undertaking.
My intent for this vacation is not to "blow it." But if I do reach for that dessert plate one night, life is not over. And it feels really good to know that.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
