My Life

What a great weekend!

2011-10-17T05:34:00.000-07:00

I came home to NJ late on Thursday and was warmly welcomed by a still awake dad and Dina. We ate a super late supper and went off to bed.

Friday, we all did a little 2 mile jog to see Mom at the cemetery. After that, Daddy made steamed clams and we headed to AC for the expo and to pick up our race packets. The expo was not impressive at all, not compared to the PF Changs Rock and Roll one. But we walked around a bit and headed to Sports Authority so that Dad and Dina could have matching lime green shirts. Dad went to work and Carol and Tracy came over for din din. Dina cooked - yum!

I stayed up late reading this YA book called Beautiful Disaster. What a mess those characters were!

Saturday was Group Power (where I snuck into the gym), walking around Smithville and buying ground coffee, and figuring out our Halloween costumes. Dina and I are both going to be Minnie Mouse! We rested a bit at the house before heading out to Valenzano winery. Another great place with great wine! Dad came home and made dinner and then off to bed to gear up for the race.

Race day was perfect! We got there early enough and got settled. The weather was beautiful. I took a nose dive around mile 8 and needed to do some walk/running. I came in a bit over 3 hours. Dad even beat me! Dina did great on her 10K and ran the entire thing. It was a fun race. We came back to the house to nap and then went to Olive Garden for dinner.

Now I am here at the kitchen table with my gradebook, ready to work on report cards for a bit. Dad is in the Deer Woods feeding them corn. We'll do lunch, take a nature walk at Estelle Manor, and then head to the airport.

What a whirlwind weekend!

Red

2011-09-18T19:34:00.000-07:00

That is the color I see when I look into the mirror. Red. Lots of it. I ran about 10 miles today. And though I considered my musical selections, outfits, and hydration plans - I neglected to think of that big bright AZ sun. Sigh

Ran 10 miles

Rode bikes with Michelle and Nicole

Ate Chipotle

Rode bikes back with Michelle and Nicole

Sat by pool

It is 7:30 and I am going to sleep.

$ spent: $4.00 on a beer at Chipotle

Pretty frugal, with just a little treat.

2011-09-16T23:17:00.000-07:00

2011-09-16T23:06:00.000-07:00

Bit the bullet...

2011-09-12T07:06:00.001-07:00

Before boot camp this morning, I got on the scale. I expected it to be higher than it was. I still need to lose 30 lbs, but I can do it. I'll tell you all the number - 180. Back this summer, running everyday, I got to 176. I need to keep working on this and my goals.

I went to bootcamp this morning. I plan on running this afternoon and using the workout room here at school. Then, tonight at 6:30, I plan on taking yoga.

Shower, sleep, repeat. Sounds good, right?!

The run last night left my ankle a bit achy this morning. I am planning on icing it now, because as I sit here typing, it is throbbing a bit.

Time to make copies and grab some ice!

Working, working, working!

2011-09-11T13:22:00.001-07:00

Friday: bootcamp, school, work yoga, took class, 0 sodas, $0.00 spent, Michelle's house

Saturday: work at yoga, home to read and sleep, 0 sodas, $0.00 spent

Sunday: work at yoga, grocery shopping - $30.14 at Walmart, 0 sodas, plans to run tonight

I went over my $25 because I am making brownies for a friend's birthday dinner and I bought - brownie mix, strawberry extract, and eggs. But now I have eggs for the rest of the week and strawberry extract to flavor future baked goods.

Super Frugal Yays for the week:

Michelle cooked dinner on Thursday - free dinner!

Payday treats on Friday - free breakfast!

Leftovers from Payday treats on Saturday - free breakfast!

A travel mug and Starbuck's Gift Card from a friend at yoga!

Family dinner at my friend's house tonight - free dinner! (leftover salad to take home = veggies with lunch and dinner!)

SCORE!!!! I still need to pay a few bills this week - Car Insurance and Student Loan. Boo!

Went running, but not the planned 10 miles - only 4.65 miles in 1 hour - so slow!

I haven't posted in a few days...busy, I guess.

2011-09-08T07:43:00.001-07:00

School is in full force and after a full day, I just want to crawl into bed and sleep. But I am sure you all feel like that too.

I haven't spent any money this week - Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, and now Thursday. I have been craving caffeine, mostly soda and coffee, but haven't had any of that either.

I went to yoga on Tuesday and Wednesday - a big achievement for me.

Today, after work, I have my laser hair removal appt and then I am going for a 30 minute jog and then to yoga for the 3rd day in a row! I missed bootcamp this morning, but you aren't supposed to raise your core body temperature at least 12 hours before your appointment. You also are no to have any caffeine or wear lotion or deodorant. Yuck.

Have a great Thursday out there!

I spent $$$ today

2011-09-05T20:10:00.000-07:00

It was inevitable; I had to put down the down-payment on my car. Good bye giant chunk of money that made my checking account look SO GOOD. I also needed gas.

I went to caddy for Alane today on the course. It was pretty nice for a while and then it got HOT. We got back around 10:30 and I drove right on over to Enterprise to hand over the big bucks!

I had a huge headache and took a nap for several hours. Yay to days off of school!

I made 2 dishes for the week ahead - rice and beans with tomatoes and taco seasoning and a chilled quinoa salad with veggies.

I worked out for a bit and, even though it is only 8:15, I am contemplating getting ready for bed.

$ spent: $3,030.00

Sodas drank: 0

Tomorrow: bootcamp, school, yoga, gym, sleep

Day 7!

2011-09-04T18:29:00.001-07:00

It was a great day. I slept off and on until 10:30. Then I went to pick up a prescription that was covered by my insurance. I got 3 months for $0!

I worked at the yoga studio to make some ka-ching, but stopped on the way to use my last $3.00 from my $25 from last week. I bought a lunch of a banana, carrots, an apple, and an orange for the low low price of $2.16.

After work, I went grocery shopping. I spent $24.79 and stayed within my $25 budget. I had to put back a few things - veggie stock, a container of tomatoes, coffee creamer, and a small bag of chocolate covered raisins as a treat.

I got everything else - edamame, couscous, beans, rice, quinoa, peanuts, raisins, almonds, lentils, carrots, pears, tangerines, green peppers, red peppers, corn, lettuce, apples, turnips, onions, and bananas.

I also saved $0.05 because I used my own bag!

I had no soda and am glugging my water. I am settling in for some TV time and reading my kindle - the 3rd book from Game of Thrones.

Day 6

2011-09-03T22:32:00.000-07:00

I left home at 6:30 AM and finally walked in a little after 10:00 PM. What a day! I am heading to bed in a few minutes. But first:

I spent $0 today.

I drank no soda for the 3rd day straight.

I worked at the yoga studio from 6:45 am-2:30 pm.

I spent the afternoon with Michelle and we rode beach cruisers over to Alane's for drinks.

Michelle treated to Chipotle and we watched 3 episodes of Hoarders.

I didn't eat terribly well and went massively over my calories. Oh well, tomorrow I have lots to do and I better get some sleep.

Aaargh!

2011-09-02T18:55:00.000-07:00

So, I went to Bootcamp this morning, then school. Bootcamp was a series of cardio workouts in intervals. I was a sweaty mess, but it was way more fun than our normal sprint workout on Friday. Later in the afternoon, I got a massive headache, probably from not having enough water and from no caffeine. Then I came on over to the yoga studio to work a few classes. It is 7:00 and my stomach is eating itself because I last had lunch at 11:20 AM. I brought a few oranges to snack on, so I will have that.

I really should go grocery shopping after work tonight, or I can make a chicken stir-fry with veggies and chicken from the freezer.

Tomorrow is a long day at the studio, as is Sunday. But then, glory be! I have all of Monday to relax. The only thing I need to do is run my big car check over to Enterprise at some point.

I hope you all have a great weekend out there!

Spent $0

Day 4

2011-09-01T22:18:00.000-07:00

I officially spent $0 today. Yay!

I went to Bootcamp this morning, school, then home for a bit. Chelly came over and I drove to Abby Bella for a Bootcamp/Dance Fusion class in Scottsdale. It was hard, but fun.

I came home, starved for food and ended up eating green beans with tomato sauce - not very exciting. Oh well - Chelly is heading out of town tomorrow for over a week and is bringing me some stuff that might go bad if not eaten - Yay to free food and NO grocery shopping. I used my budget this week to buy David, Jacquie's husband, a thank you present for all his car help. Here's to cleaning out the cupboard and keeping it frugal!

Day 3

2011-08-31T20:13:00.000-07:00

I bought a car today - but didn't ACTUALLY spend any money, sooooo...that was a good time!

I did buy a thank you gift for the man who was giving me advice and made my own card for him for $20.00.

I got my big check from the Insurance Company and also got paid at the yoga studio. I put the small bodily injury settlement in the bank as well - that will cover my first car payment in October.

Because I was feeling SUPERB (and mighty hungry), I splurged and bought dinner at Jimmy John's - a Beach Club and chips with a soda - my last soda for a month.

I am super thrilled with the car and I bought it from Enterprise! So exciting!

Day 2

2011-08-30T22:00:00.000-07:00

Today was better for me. My kids were awesome today and we finished everything on the agenda for the day and had time for a little extra story time!

Car stuff is still a huge headache. Yuck.

Money-wise - I spent $2.13 at Starbuck's meeting with a friend's husband who is a fleet manager. I am proud I only spent that today and nothing else.

I am craving soda like nothing else, but pulled through on my second day of no soda. I promised Michelle I would give it up for the month of September. Now that I am on an uber-budget, it is probably good to cut it out a few days early.

I went to bootcamp this morning and I tried to jog on my ankle. It wasn't so bad, a little twinge here or there, but good to go!

Day 1

2011-08-29T08:28:00.001-07:00

Wow! Today is day one of being a cheapskate. So far so good. I am feeling very sickish this morning, so the idea of food doesn't even sound so good. I will not buy a soda or a coffee. I will drink my water. Other than bills, my plan is to not spend ANY money today.

I am paying my 2 credit card bills today, but that can't be helped:

1. Card 1 - 350.00

2. Card 2 - 350.00

I need to go to the bank and have my release papers on the car notarized. Then I need to go to Fed Ex and have them send it out PRONTO. I also need to call the fleet manager for showcase honda. Sigh. So much to do today and I don't feel well.

In Vegan news, I am still finishing up food in the cupboard before launching into this new phase. So, I am eating up soup and tuna, cheese, and popcorn. This is also helping me with my $25 a week budget. Let the good times roll!

Lazy

2011-07-28T22:42:00.000-07:00

I was lazy today.

I skipped Bootcamp and slept in.

I got to school at 7 and stayed until 3. The kids were wonderful today and I had fun with the Whole Brain Teaching I've been practicing.

I came home and napped.

I made dinner.

I watched tv and worked on school stuff.

Now it is 10:45 and I should go to bed, huh?

I am going to make tomorrow a better day - exercise, friends, good food!

Cupcakes

2011-05-20T20:33:00.000-07:00

This week, I made chocolate-banana cupcakes with marshmallow frosting. I added a banana chip and piped some chocolate suns, stars, and letters. I need to work on my melted chocolate skills, there was nothing dainty about it. The recipe was from What's New, Cupcake.

I haven't made my own frosting in forever, but used the marshmallow frosting from What's New, Cupcake. It was 3 sticks of butter, 16 oz of fluff, 1 1/2 c confectioner sugar, and 1 t vanilla. People seemed to really enjoy them today.

A few weeks ago I made mashed potato cupcakes from Hello Cupcake. White cake, white frosting from a can, caramel sauce, and a lemon starburst. It was fun and quirky.

It's been forever and a day!

2011-05-06T07:17:00.000-07:00

I haven't posted here in ages. I am, however, back.

This weekend will be a hard one. It's Mother's Day on Sunday and the death of my mom in December is still so fresh to me. But I have good friends with plans to keep me busy.

Tonight: tennis and drink/dinner with friends

Saturday: working at the yoga studio, maybe a long run, possibly dinner out

Sunday: working at the yoga studio, lunch and shopping with a friend, calling the family

I've been making some changes in other areas of my life. For mom, for myself, for the future I want to have. Eating well and tracking my food on MyFitnessPal, exercising, working a lot, saying NO when I feel overwhelmed...

Those are just a few of the changes.

Fun things abound this week ahead, and I plan on taking pics. ciao!

Fall pictures

2010-12-03T07:48:00.001-08:00

Dina, see? I love the colors - thanks again, very belatedly for the beautiful card!

5:30 AM - Why????

2010-12-03T07:31:00.000-08:00

Getting up at 4:32 in the morning to get ready for yoga at 5:30 is not my cup of tea. It goes against everything I believe in to be out the door before the sun can even peek out over the horizon. But, for the past four days, I have fought against it all and gone to 5:30 AM.
On Tuesday, I "volunteered" to open the studio and check in students, as we had a new teacher just back from TT. That let her focus on the temperature in the room and getting ready to teach. Class was hard for me. I haven't taken class in some time that early. Backbends were painful, forward bends were painful. I was uncomfortable and it showed in my practice. I popped out of poses early, fidgeted, etc. And though our newest teacher, on her second class, did a truly commendable job, I slacked - knowing that she wouldn't call out corrections, etc.
But, I did like being done for the day and having had the chance to sweat it all out. So, I asked a few people to call me and give me an early morning wake-up call for Wednesday.
I got 2 calls and a text on Wednesday, Thursday, and today. But I came to them all and didn't crawl back under the covers for a few more hours of sleep.
On Wednesday, Niki was serious and determined to make us all work hard. She called my name out again and again, giving corrections and alignment tips. She wouldn't let any of us slack and so I worked very hard for her. After class, I got a little teary, over something very silly. But with all the horrible stuff going on at home, the emotions just tumble out of me when they can.
Thursday was a class with Alison - I love how she reminds us that just by being on the mat, we've done something. She tells us to honor ourselves and take care of ourselves, that our practice is a new thing everyday. I need to hear that, especially when I feel like I should be better and do more.
Today was alright. Poor Tawnya and Gita, 2 of my "yoga elves" that call and make me come, both were thinking of not coming in. But because they knew they'd called me, they showed up so I would see them there. It was nice. The best part of it all is that it is pajama day and I knew that after yoga, I was putting my PJs back on for my 2nd graders at school. Awesome, huh?

I am 7 days down on my holiday season challenge, which is to take 20 out of 30 classes between Thanksgiving and Christmas. I have 23 days left, technically, but really only 15, because I am heading to NJ for break. So, I have 2 classes I can miss and that is it!

It has been a while...

2010-11-15T10:16:00.000-08:00

It's been a hard few months. I am glad they are over. I hope things improve.

Work has been exhausting. I am never quite caught up. I am doing all these after school programs and don't get the basics covered in advance. I scramble to get it all done at the last minute. I hate feeling unprepared. I need to input grades, make copies, call parents, prep materials for projects, etc. I get here at 7 AM and leave 5 usually. And still...no reprieve from the lengthy to-do list.

I have a longer workday and can't make it to 4:30 yoga. My practice has suffered. Mentally, physically, emotionally - I am off. It is frustrating. I try getting up for the 5:30 AM class, but wake feeling tired and unhappy. So, I curl up for another 2 hours of sleep instead.

I've got things in my family life that make me angry, sad, and helpless all at the same time. I wonder if I should be home more, if there was something more I could do. I feel too far away out here in Arizona.

On the weekends, I have been channeling my inner Martha Stewart. I do small, manageable projects that give me some measure of completion:

1.knitting 2. painting class 3. glitter by number 4. button earrings

I also painted plates for Christmas gifts, am embossing my own Christmas cards, am learning to do paper quilling, and am making satin elastic hair ties like they sell at my yoga studio. Christmas presents are all bought or in the works. It will be nice to have it all done by Thanksgiving. Most of my gifts are handmade this year!

Crafty!

2010-06-19T22:02:00.000-07:00

I've been busy with the move and family stuff. No knitting has been accomplished, but I have done some art projects. I go to a painting class once a month and paint something. It's fun to do the projects, but I don't want ANY of them, so I try to find a recipient! The crayons were an end of the year gift to my students. I melted down our crayon stubs from the year into different shapes.

Crazy

2010-06-15T11:01:00.000-07:00

I have been inconsistently going to yoga. I tend to go when I am scheduled to work the desk. Otherwise, problems in my life have been cropping up and giving me the feeling of justification that it is okay to not go. I know that I need to go. It would probably help me control my feelings better. Crying, not crying, crying, not crying.

On top of a huge, scary issue in the family, I am moving. It is about time. I have held onto this apartment for too long. SO much junk has accumulated and I have felt stagnant, doing the same thing day in and day out.

I've sold things, boxed others, sent items to Goodwill, and put other things in the trash. It is a very freeing and cathartic process. I feel lighter. I still have more "stuff" to let go of. I am starting to bring things to my new place this week, though I won't officially move in until the end of July.

It's a true win-win. I will have my own bedroom and my own "living room", as well as my own bathroom. I'll be around people and hopefully can work to improve upon my hermit-like tendencies! The couple I am moving in with are really great. Nowhere else would I be paying so little and getting so much space and support.

This is a step - to what? I don't know. But I feel like it IS a move forward, making a conscious choice to change.

I have 2 more weeks of summer school and then I am on to NJ where I will be spending some much needed time with my family. I plan on doing the CD a bunch, down in the basement. There are NO Bikram studios near the family.

I will be hitting the yoga hard tonight at 6:30 class!

Day 24!

2010-05-03T21:02:00.000-07:00

I vacillate between looking forward to going to yoga and not going. I am always glad that I went. Today was an example of that. I ran errands and then went to yoga, with 10 minutes to spare. Usually I get there earlier, as I don't like to feel rushed. I wasn't overjoyed. But it was yoga or the gym and yoga won out today.

Once I walked in, it all turned around. I was glad that the studio owner was teaching. She is a merciless task master that sees all. And just went you want to throw something at her or give up, she cracks some cheesy joke or tells a really good story. I hardly ever get to take her class, but it is always just what I need.

She kept saying my name and making sure I was working hard today! I appreciated all the tips. Damn that tricky triangle!

Anyway - early morning class tomorrow, then a hike at 8 with the school peeps, 1/2 day of work, gym time with Brandy, then Glee and Idol. Busy, busy...

Bikram!!!

2010-04-26T18:30:00.001-07:00

Woo hoo! Here we are with a pic from the surprise visit. I've been contemplating going to TT in a few years. Maybe get out of some debt. Sell some of my things. Send the rest on home. Go to training.

The idea of it makes me smile. And phase 1 is in the works; I will be moving in with a couple in order to halve my rent/bills!

Day something or other!

2010-04-24T21:37:00.001-07:00

I am still plugging along! We had a seminar today with Craig Villani. It was great! He was funny and articulate. I normally can't sit for long - no matter who is talking, but today I had no problem!

We started with seminar and stopped around 4 to get ready for class. The logistics of tons of people changing and peeing at the same time took a bit to work out, but finally, it seemed we were ready to get going.

People starting hurrying out of the room, and so that meant something exciting must be happening. And it was something (or someone, rather) exciting. Bikram was in town for something or other and stopped in to say hi.

He came in and talked for a bit. Then there were autographs and pictures. I can't wait to post my picture with the Boss himself.

Class started after that and spirits were super high. By the time we finished awkward pose, I wanted to die. It was INTENSE and HARD. I sat out - I got so dizzy. It was hard to figure out the food and drinking business today. And it was HARD. HARD. Once on the floor, I lay there in savasana and the chin trembling started. I didn't cry but it was close.

It was a roller coaster day. Ups and downs. I loved it all though and can't wait to apply some of what I learned today in tomorrow's class!

A Good Day

2010-04-18T20:00:00.000-07:00

I am well in on the challenge and 1 day ahead. I was incredibly sore after advanced yesterday. This morning I went hiking for an hour. I went to Bikram at 3:30. I went for a walk/jog with a friend. Now I am watching Life and getting ready for another work week.

I am thinking of all those at TT and those trying to get to TT. I am wishing I could be there, too. Maybe one day there will be a summer training and I can go!

Yoga Day

2010-04-17T22:36:00.000-07:00

Woke

Yoga at 9:30

Advanced class at 11:30

Home to shower

Worked at yoga studio 2:30-6:30

Dinner with a friend

2 glasses of wine

Exhausted

Thursday

2010-04-15T08:42:00.000-07:00

How did it get to be Thursday already??!!

I have gone to yoga 5 days straight, 3 of them at 5:30 in the AM. Today I slept in (LOL!). I am heading to the studio at 4:30 this afternoon - then home for Survivor.

Testing will be over today for my little 2nd graders - yeah! And we will have about 1 month left of school - crazy!

Today is still a work in progress...

2010-04-13T15:28:00.000-07:00

I went to yoga this morning at 5:30. It sucks getting up at 4:32 in the morning, but feels awesome to be done before my work day has even started!

I woke up, fiddled with my facebook status, took my turn on some scrabble games, checked my email, ordered the athleta catalogue, changed, gathered my stuff, and left the apt for yoga with time to spare.

Unfortunately, it was a mad dash because I forgot I needed gas in the car! Yikes!! I called the studio and the owner was there - she said she'd leave the door open. I frantically ran in, locked the door, and proceeded to get WORKED!

It was hot and steamy. I was a little frenzied from being late. Nicole had her eye on ME. Lots of corrections and tips.

Working today and heading out in a few minutes. Am going to yoga but not feeling too spritely. Damn these diets and no soda. I think my withdrawal from no soda is going to be the death of me! At least I have Idol and Glee to look forward to!!

started a 60 day challenge

2010-04-11T19:41:00.001-07:00

I failed to finish the 101. But I am ready for a 60 day. I need to get back in the practice, you know?

I went to class yesterday and it was a sort of okay thing. Today was infinitely better. 2 newbies behind me, so I tried to be a good bikram role model. i got a new haircut, so it was hard not to fidget a little with the hair... oh well.

i have a 4:32 AM wake up call to ensure that I show up for yoga tomorrow. i get to teach a little at work again - yay. then at 4:30 i've got the gym with brandy.

now is the time to start getting in shape for my brother's wedding in october. i've seen the bridesmaid dress and i want to look GOOD!

Bikram Rockville

2010-04-03T21:06:00.000-07:00

...didn't really rock. I went only once to yoga during my brief sojourn to MD. I was so excited to take class somewhere new and it was an experience!

1. The place was bigger than ours! The room to the studio had 2 entrances. There was a vestibule area, the sign in area with all the merchandise, changing rooms with multiple stalls, etc. They had a water cooler! I wish they had lockers though, as I am super paranoid about my things. After I asked about that, I was told to bring it all in. It was strange seeing all these bags lined up in the back of the room. I had to let go of the feeling that my ipod, DS, blackberry, and camera were going to melt, malfunction, or go kaput on me!

2. The teacher was friendly and made a point to know my name. There was another out of towner from New Orleans. I got some compliments and a lot of attention, especially during standing bow. The teacher wandered the room, making adjustments, working with individuals specifically. It was disconcerting to be practicing and know that the instructor was right next to me. She adjusted my form a few times, which was nice to see what she wanted me to do, but a little jarring to be sure. I'm not used to being touched during class and like my space.

3. She strayed from the dialogue big time. At my studio, teachers might share tips or tidbits, but the dialogue is ALWAYS there. I depend on it. It was hard to focus.

4. Then there was bound lotus and dancing shiva and a few other stretches and twists thrown in for good measure. I like trying new things. I do other yoga classes here and there. I just don't really want/need any changes to my Bikram.

All in all?

I am glad I went. It makes me happy and grateful that I belong to such a great studio here in Phx. I am thankful for the consistency and discipline of my teachers. I am excited to head to class tomorrow!

Congrats to all the people finishing up the Bikram 101! I admire you all and can't wait to catch up on the blogs now that I am back and have internet access!

Here are some pics from MD, just to spice up the post!

Lotion

2010-03-22T22:06:00.000-07:00

Arrgh! I forgot I about all the lotion I put on last night. Class today was a bit of a trial. Get a grip and then slip. Otherwise, it was alright. I sat out of triangle. Things got a little spotty - I thought I'd had enough water and food today, but maybe not.

I worked out on the treadmill for 45 minutes before class. So, maybe that was something that had me not at full force. But here is the disgusting thing - at the gym, I was on the treadmill for maybe 5 minutes and I started sweating buckets, like I was at yoga. I felt a little out of place next to the other people who were jogging and walking and barely breaking a sweat.

Have any of you had this kind of sweating doing other physical stuff?

Back in Business, sort of...

2010-03-21T21:30:00.000-07:00

I took class yesterday and it was intense. I was a mess after a few weeks of only practicing a few times. I saw spots. I felt hot and cold, simultaneously. I spent most of the class talking myself into poses, only to drop to the floor and use my willpower to stay in the room. How humbling...

I didn't go to class today. I went to a fun wedding and drank a little too much last nice. I love those gin and tonics, glasses of wine, and strawberry vodkas with sprite. I spent this morning sleeping it off. I spent this afternoon trying to get my house to look like an after shot of "hoarders".

Tomorrow - big plans for the day!

1. Finish inputting grades for the report card.

2. Head to the gym for an hour of working out with Brandy.

3. 6:30 yoga.

I gave it up...

2010-03-16T22:09:00.000-07:00

The past few weeks have been crazy. I finished my 60 day in grand style, with a million doubles. From that point, I was determined to go everyday, without fail. But things (excuses) came up and it got to the point where I had missed a bunch of days again. My back hurt. I needed to finish things at work. I had an early morning meeting. I didn't drink enough water.

Whatever. Whatever. Whatever.

I went to yoga just a few times last week. Same so far this week. I am going on Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. But I didn't go yesterday, today, and won't go tomorrow.

I will be on the blog a bunch still. I waffled about sharing and so didn't post for so many days. Having a confessional here feels good. At least I let it out.

I feel a little disappointed to be giving it up and not seeing it through. I am also a little relieved that I don't HAVE to make up a day if I miss. I feel guilty for making a promise I didn't keep. I feel glad that I am not doing laundry every day. It's a mishmosh of emotions to be sure.

One of those days

2010-03-09T14:54:00.001-08:00

I have had one of those days where it seems as though it will never end.

I woke up feeling all good and fresh and then I came into school, where it just wasn't that much fun. My kids needed a lot of attention. We were on rainy day schedule for the 2nd day in a row. I had parents coming in and calling, 2 kids going home sick, and one who did not Make His Day and needed a note home.

Sigh.

Then I had my after school club. Now I am ready to fall into bed, read a little, and call it a day.

I love my yoga, but today just need a break from it all. I am heading home, to my nice, cozy apartment for some R and R.

Til tomorrow!

60 day lunch

2010-03-07T19:46:00.000-08:00

Today after checking in the morning yoga people, we all headed out for the 60 day yoga finishers to the Herb Box, up in DC Ranch, in Scottsdale. I think there were about 25-30 ppl there and more that couldn't make it. That's a pretty strong showing for our studio - Yay BYPV!

It was nice to see people away from the studio and hear about non yoga related things, like family and jobs. Everyone looked so nice in their regular/nice clothes.

I think there should be a trio shot of people - their dress up look, their coming in to yoga look, and their after yoga look. It would be crazy to see the differences.

I know when I come, I am already bare minimum - hair, makeup, clothes,etc. By the time I leave, I am a mess!

Today was a gloomy, rainy day. I would've been happy to stay home and read. But I took 3:30, since I was there to work the desk. And after - I never regret taking a class.

I do have to put a sticker up on the chart, tho! I forgot.

No news is good news?

2010-03-06T09:05:00.000-08:00

I haven't had much to share this week. I took a few days off of Bikram after the week of doubles. I am trying to go to bed earlier and to get up in the morning and DO something. Yesterday, I ran/waled 2 miles before yoga. Today I slept in, but am cleaning and straightening up the house. I will go to 5:30 PM class since I will be working the desk. It will be a fantastic day, full of "I want to" and no "I have to".

Hope everyone is well.

60 days and I am wiped!

2010-03-01T18:33:00.000-08:00

I did 8 doubles and a single in 9 days. My lower back on the left side is protesting. It pulls right when I think I've got it all together again. It will be lovely to go to one class tomorrow.

I am super hungry, but working right now. Food in 45 more minutes. I can hardly wait.

Class this morning was a trial in patience. My back isn't bendy on the best of days at 5:30, but today I couldn't bend down to pick up my foot in standing head to knee. Ouch.

4:30 class with Terri was infinitely better, but I still had to roll over to my side to get up from floor postures. It was hot. I was in an uncomfortable spot, by the podium in the front row. I wanted to give in and lay there on the floor, but I couldn't! It was my 60th class! It was announced and repeated a few times in class. Everyone clapped twice for me. It was nice to feel so much support. Both Sandi and Tawnya came to spend the big 60 with me. Thanks girls! It means a lot to me!

For doing this - I get some swanky prizes - a free pedicure and eyebrow wax at a salon, $50 credit with the studio for drinks or clothing, and lunch at the Herb Box in DC Ranch. Yum!

An Accounting

2010-02-28T14:11:00.000-08:00

February is a short month and has fairly flown by, looking back at it. I filled my days with yoga, work, and more yoga. I have left very little time for the drudgery of cleaning and shopping and keeping house. Now that my marathon of doubles is at it's end (1 more tomorrow), it's time to get back on track with the little things.

For the month of February:

I did 34 classes in 28 days.

I did 11 doubles this month.

I took 5 days off this month.

Classes with instructors:

Alison 4

Heidi 4

Anthony 5

Jon 8

Stacy 2

Stella 2

Terri 2

Nicole 0

Marsha 3

Niki 0

Erin 1

Jess 1

Lisa 2

Whew!

2010-02-27T15:50:00.000-08:00

This has been a long day!

7:30 class with Anthony

orange

9:30 class with Alison

pineapple, vitamin water 10 cal, handful almonds

Trunk show - where I spent too much money!

checked in 3:30 class

vegan eggplant muffuleta from whole foods

coconut juice

checking in 5:30 next

Plan on finishing Doomsday Key by James Rollins (love his books!)

2 more doubles (Sun and Mon) to finish the 60 day and be on track with the 101!

Okay

2010-02-26T20:00:00.000-08:00

I woke up at a decent time: 6:30 AM.

I showered, put in contacts, put on makeup, and made my way to work.

Worked 9-3. Was evaluated by the principal and got rave reviews!

Drove to the studio for 4:30 with Heidi. I went up front today. Strong class.

Drank some water and changed outfits.

Took 6:30 with Stella. Felt a little more fatigued than usual, but tried every pose. I am really getting happy with my thigh in triangle. It is looking good, at least to my eyes. It needs a tan, but is almost parallel!

Tomorrow is a yoga day:

7:30, 9:30, trunk show at the studio (I get to buy more Poppi Wear stuff!), and then I work the desk for 3:30 and 5:30. I might take the 5:30. I think 3:30 will be busy because it is a Karma class.

Hamster on a wheel...

2010-02-25T20:13:00.000-08:00

Yoga, work, yoga, falling into bed.

Went to 5:30 this morning. I was working hard, especially since yesterday was not too impressive. It was a strong class for me. I don't love the stiffness so early, but this didn't seem so bad once I got to standing bow.

Stayed late at work to finish up a project. I left around 5:30 and that gave me time to ponder and decide whether I should go to yoga or go home and watch Survivor. I called my mom and chatted as I dropped books at the library and drove on. My auto-pilot led me to the studio. I was still really early. In my head, I said, "No one has seen me. I could go home." Three things stopped me:

1. I had left all my stuff in a locker in the studio.

2. I had told a bunch of people about my doubles this week.

3. I don't want to have to do another triple.

Class ended up being GREAT! Heidi was silly with yee-haws during sit-ups, British accents, and her Locust Alliance...Unite! I stood in the front which is a once in a blue moon event. I worked as hard as I could and was really pleased with how strong I was!

This makes 8 doubles this month; 4 this week alone. I have 3 more doubles and 1 triple to do before Tuesday. I am getting there.

Craptastic

2010-02-24T19:13:00.000-08:00

This morning I trekked in to the studio for the oh-so-early 5:30 class. I was feeling tired and a little achy. Not as good as my yesterday double. I made it through, but with very little in the way of good. Much of my practice today could be defined as lackluster. It was a class to put under my belt and to let go of.

Tomorrow will be better. 5:30 AM with Tawnya and 4:30 or 6:30. I want to get in for the 4:30, so I can head home and watch Survivor! I have been addicted for years.

Double yesterday, double today.

2010-02-23T19:33:00.000-08:00

Gosh, I really put myself in a difficult situation. My studio's 60 day challenge is wrapping up. I want in for the party! Unfortunately, I was more than a week behind. After doing a double Sunday, a double yesterday, and a double today, I am 5 behind. I will finish this- I have no choice. Unfortunately, that means I have no life at all - not like I was super social before!

I can't really remember much from yesterday. Morning class was full of sleepiness. 4:30 with Terri is always an uplifting experience. She is a believer in positive reinforcement. All her "nice job front rows", "good effort right sides", "good job so and sos". It leaves me feeling good inside and like I would do anything to not disappoint her. I rarely will sit out of a pose in her class.

Today was a double with Jon. I thought I would feel like a wet noodle in the second class. Doing a double, I try not to do a back to back. Today I did and was so glad. Class 2 was pretty good, not as nice as class 1, but way better than I expected.

I figured something out tonight. In both classes, I matter-of-factly went into locust with NO HATEFUL THOUGHTS. Have I truly gotten to the point where I just do locust and don't attach anything bad to it? I think so. Yay.

One class tomorrow at 5:30 AM.

DOUBLE!

2010-02-21T20:36:00.000-08:00

I drove to yoga with my check engine light glaring at me from the dashboard. I resolved to ignore it - maybe it would go away (and not interfere with my yoga).

Noon class was pretty crowded. I worked hard and didn't let up in my effort, even though I knew I was doing a double. There was someone familiar behind me. It took me awhile to figure it out. It was some guy I had gone out with a few times. It's been a few years. He looked a little different. It made me think back to that time. But I worked hard; I do like to impress.

In between classes, I ran out to the Dollar Tree and Safeway. And yay! My check engine light didn't light up! All my fervent prayers and hopes - come to life!

I went back for 3:30 with Jon - always a good time. He tells good stories. I told myself I could take it easy, but once I started a pose, I couldn't not do them. I finally got fatigued around floor bow. I went up and came back down. Jon called me out on it. So, I went back up and finished the rest of class.

Right after, I had some chilled grapefruit slices - it was the best thing I ever ate!

Okay

2010-02-20T15:16:00.001-08:00

Today I went to 7:30 before a bridal shower. I would've liked to have done a double, but couldn't. I am at the desk now and am getting ready here for a masquerade bachelorette party. It is raining, has been all day. Yuck.

Class was meh. I am okay with that. It was mostly me!

The last thing I wanted...

2010-02-19T20:27:00.001-08:00

to do was go to yoga today. I am involved in a project at work. I can get a little single minded on things sometimes. I didn't want to go in the morning to yoga. I wanted to be at work. I didn't go to 4:30 class. I was still at work. I dragged myself to 6:30 and it was fine. The second I was there, it was like, "oh, yeah - i like yoga!" But, boy, it was hard getting there.

It was a rough week:

lots going on with my students (fist fights, weapons, leaving campus) - man, they're only 7 and 8!

a conference about an hours drive away with freeway traffic

people not committing to the kids and my tutoring program and kids not showing up

not being home until late

I'm glad another week is down on the school year.

In other, scary news:

I need to do 18 classes in 10 days to make my 60 day challenge with the studio (and to catch up for the 101). EEEP!

Really?!

2010-02-15T14:23:00.000-08:00

I went in for noon class today. Since I had the day off, I slept in until 8 - that felt amazing! I cleaned up a bit at Chelly's, played with the dog for a bit, and headed home to get dressed for noon. I had eaten a pb and honey sandwich when I got up, but was still feeling full for some reason when I got to class.

All the conditions were ideal - heat, space around me, position in room, Terri teaching, friends were there. I made it through standing series - but I was feeling like lead and then nausea came to say hi. I sat out part of balancing stick and part of triangle. When it was time for the 2 minute savasana, my mind was begging me to leave.

There was a new gal in class, who was having a really hard time. The teacher was there every step of the way, encouraging her to rest and stay in the room and take it easy. I felt like, no matter what was going on in me, I couldn't just get up and leave. What message would that give to the new girl and Terri's effort?

So, I stayed in the room. I can't say that I did anything well on the floor - I did the damned locust pose! I did one camel, no rabbits, and totally half-assed stretching poses and spine twists. I almost started crying. The chin tremble started. What was I about to cry for?

I still don't know.

I had some OJ, tons of water, came home, and slept for an hour. Tomorrow will be better - I know. I just haven't been hit by the yoga bus, really, this challenge. And to me, this felt like the yoga freight train!

Busy, Busy

2010-02-13T07:22:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was LONG. I woke up at 6:30, was at work by 7. Mtg from 8-9. Lots of assessments and then the Valentine's Day bash with the kids. Raced off to man the desk at BYPV. Checked in 4:30. Took 6:30 with a visiting teacher from DC area. Drove to friend's house to let the dog out. Ate some pasta, played with the dog, showered, and collapsed into bed.

Got up at 5:30. Drove to my house to pick up clothes, chargers, etc. Picked up visiting yoga teacher. Opened studio at 6:45. Checked in 7:30 class. Filed oodles of registration cards. Ready for 9:30 class and then a luxurious day at my friend's house with the dog. I love her house so much - it's like a vacation when I dog/house sit.

I can't wait to get back into my jammies, watch movies, and enter grades into the new gradebook system. It'll take me forever, but at least I won't need to worry about it on Sunday or Monday!

36/40

2010-02-09T19:21:00.000-08:00

I was a full 8 days behind in my challenge and I am slowly whittling that number down. I'm four behind.

tomorrow - 1 class

Thursday - 1 class

Friday - double

Saturday - double

Sunday - 1 class

Monday - 1 class

Slowly, but surely I will get there....

Battleship

2010-02-08T20:13:00.001-08:00

I compared yoga today to the game Battleship. I walked in, looking for a spot to set my mat down. Which places would sink my battleship? The hottest ones with no circulation? The spot next to the strange chick who does a lot of moving and strange stretches? The spot right in front of the teacher or the door?

I finally settled on a spot, feeling pretty good. But, boy-oh-boy, was I in for it!! The guy just diagonally in front of me kept blowing his nose into his hand and then WIPING it on the floor and the towel. GAG ME!

4:30 class was hard work. I did some pretty strong and steady poses, though the balancing series still thwarts me. I thought about going home after, but I still have some days to make up. I decided to suck it up and stay for 6:30.

I moved to the right, middle row, under the fan. My favorite spot next to the podium will be forever tainted by snot-rocket man. I can't go back there until that floor is disinfected and deeeeep cleaned! I was loosey goosey in the 2nd class. My strength was pretty much depleted, but I plugged along and felt better by the floor series. I was glad to do it. I am even more glad to be done.

Now I am eating my Wendy's baked potato with some vegan margarine and salt. I've got some broccoli soup and veggies to chow on and then it is off to bed.

Double tomorrow - 5:30 AM and 4:30 PM. I was sad to miss the Bachelor. I refuse to sacrifice 2 nights of tv!

3 Questions For You

2010-02-07T07:26:00.000-08:00

I am doing a scavenger hunt with the studio and I need help with the last 2 questions:

1. When Bikram travels, what piece of clothing or accessory is he very particular about packing correctly? Is it hats?

2. When Bikram is up late watching those Bollywood movies at TT, what 2 drinks does he typically drink? Is one of them milk?

The last question involves food. I have been practicing for over a year, pretty consistently. I haven't changed much about the way I have been eating and the quantity. I feel stronger, but am definitely not lighter. But now that I have my practice going strong, I'd like to make some changes. I am in a wedding in October, plus I would just like to fit better into my clothes. I am a vegan, but am wondering about the quantity of food you all eat in the course of the day, in addition to what you eat.

So, what do you eat and how much?

Thanks for any and all help!

Wow!

2010-02-06T13:24:00.000-08:00

Today was great! I woke up and went to 9:30 class with a visiting teacher. It was Lisa from San Antonio and boy, she was fantastic! From the get-go, she was there to shake us up. She challenged us to really get that L in Linda - we didn't even move our arms! In fixed firm, she had us hold off on water, just to see if we'd be okay. I like my water, and I thought about it, but it wasn't so bad.

After class, we got to watch 4 of our champions run their routines for championships in LA. Instead of advanced class, we got a mini-clinic with lots of tips and pointers. I loved it, being a part of today's spontaneous class.

By the time I left, it was almost 1:45. I was going to go back at 3:30 for class. But my brain was too full and I smelled way to raunchy as it was.

I'm watching Freaks and Geeks and then heading to Pita Jungle for dinner with friends!

Lovely Class

2010-02-05T19:28:00.000-08:00

I went to 4:30 after a LONG day at work. I wasn't super thrilled to head over. But the class was great! I worked hard in the standing series. My locust was more than decent. I pushed hard. After class, I didn't have anywhere to be and just lay there until the room cleared out. It was pretty nice, feeling that post-yoga vibe, with no pressing errands or meetings or plans.

I have a plan tomorrow to do 3 classes, but may only do 2. We'll see what happens:

7:30 AM

9:30 AM

11:00 Advanced

Let's put that behind me...

2010-02-03T06:48:00.000-08:00

Whoa - class was scary bad. I couldn't summon up the energy to do ANYTHING much beyond breathe. Outside factors were working in my favor - decent heat, good spot, decent space around me, clothing that I didn't fuss with much...But boy, it was not my finest hour and a half. But whatever - 5:30 AM is done and I don't go back to the studio today. I'll let it go!

Double tomorrow.

Did a double

2010-02-02T18:20:00.000-08:00

I posted the other day my make-up plan for all those days I missed. Double yesterday. Double today. Done and done!

Went to 5:30 with Anthony. It was a fun time. Someone squashed a bug with their bare hand. People got the giggles. It was hot and steamy. I was sore from yesterday, but tried my best because of the eye candy near me. I work hard for myself, but work even harder to impress. Lame, but it gets the job done!

After a seemingly LONG 6 hours at work, I went back for 4:30. I picked a different spot than usual, under the fan. After this morning, I was hoping for some circulating air! I felt much stronger this afternoon. There were some really aggravating people in front of me - flopping around, making weird noises, drinking at the wrong time. But Jon teaches a great class. He talks a lot and I know it all makes sense on the floor. But after yoga, like my dreams, so much just slips away.

The plan for tomorrow is 1 class, because I can make the 5:30 AM and though I could go to 8:15 PM, I know I won't be happy on Thursday morning.

February already?

2010-02-01T19:04:00.000-08:00

Today I did what I set out to do:

1. paid rent

2. went to 5:30 AM yoga

3. taught my great class of kiddos

4. taught my after school game club

5. went to 4:30 PM yoga

6. went to the gym and did 30 minutes on the bike

7. am watching the Bachelor

5:30 AM class was decent. i am part of the locust alliance, so even when I wanted to, I did my best. I took up a different spot, right in front of the mirror. I get a close up view of all that junk on my body. 90 minutes spent thinking, ewww.

4:30 PM I chose to step AWAY from the mirror, and went to my happy place in the second row. Triumph came in standing head to knee, where I held onto my foot the whole time. On both sides. In both sets. I was plugging along quite nicely, feeling motivated by that pose. But once I got to the floor, ZAP - my energy did a disappearing act on me. I fought through locust. It was a hard floor series. I got sloppy. My stomach was paining me. All in all - it was good to be done.

Minus the bachelor and paying of the rent, tomorrow should be the same! Congrats everyone for being almost a third through this challenge!

catch up...

2010-01-31T18:04:00.000-08:00

I have a plan. I went out of town. I slacked. I made excuses. But, I have a plan:

Monday: 5:30 AM, 4:30 PM

Tuesday: 5:30 AM, 4:30 PM

Wednesday:5:30 AM

Thursday: 5:30 AM, 4:30 PM

Friday: 5:30 AM, 4:30 PM

Saturday: 9:30 AM, advanced????

Sunday: noon

I am laying out yoga clothes and towels, work clothes, and gym clothes. Good thing I have 2 couches, since one is full of clothing!

When I do all these classes, I will still be 1 day behind - but only 1.

Okay - back to organizing and watching the Grammy's.

what happened?

2010-01-27T18:02:00.000-08:00

Today was rough - I missed yesterday and probably wasn't as hydrated. I think I am 3 days behind still. I need to consult my sticker chart.

Niki teaches a nice strong class. I like her explanations about savasana and not using towels, etc. I did a respectable enough job on standing series. I sat out of 2nd set of triangle, when I started to feel light headed and see some black spots. It was a short rest, but all I needed.

In floor series, I felt like yakking in tortoise, which I have never felt before. I continued to rest in savasana during the first camel. I planned on staying of out 2nd set, but Niki was calling my name and I can't refuse that. I really like when people are noticing what I am doing right (or wrong) and push me to work harder. Sometimes, it's easier for me to fail myself than others in the hot room. One day, it'll be the other way. I finished up and went outside to enjoy my passionfruit zico and BREATHE. Now I am home, cozy under the covers, getting ready for the President to talk.

I hope you all did yourselves proud today!

EWWWWWWWW

2010-01-25T18:18:00.000-08:00

Gag me big time! I took 4:30 class because I couldn't make the AM. I got there at 4:10 and it was already packed. I set up in the back row, near the door. I don't love that spot because people race out of class and I don't like all those sweaty people stepping over me. ::shudders::

Anyway - what a gross, nasty nightmare. Class was really full, with more than 50 people in the room. The guy on my right was a regular. He was very conscientious, keeping himself to his own space, not flinging sweaty limbs all about. The guy on my left - whoa!

He kept moving about. He flung his arms up and down, with sweat flying out (and on me). He kept pouring water from his bottle onto his back. His towel went squish, squish! He touched me. He had his feet on my mat and towel. Sweating on it - drip, drip, drip. ::cringe::

And then the guy in front of me had his feet on my mat.

It was all disgusting. I am all good with "Let no one steal your peace." But it was hard to focus on my savasanas.

Posture-wise, I did pretty well. The more EVERYONE around me fidgeted and squirmed, the more I worked to stay in the poses and stay still. I am trying to roll up onto my belly in floor bow - I can't figure that out! Maybe my belly is too big?

Another Double!

2010-01-24T16:01:00.000-08:00

First class at 9:30 - I could feel all the stiffness in my body. I think I was sore from yesterday's double. I spent the class trying to get out of my own head. It was one of those classes where I couldn't stop the monkey in my mind from chattering away about everything.

Class #2 - 12:00. What a difference! I held onto my foot for standing head to knee the whole time in both sets. I held standing bow on both sides, both sets. Even in balancing stick, I managed to hold on to both sets. It was an amazing thing!

Camel felt good - I love that pose so much. When I first started, I couldn't stand that one. The light show was scary. So, right after tortoise, I started chanting stupid things to myself about the upcoming camel - Camel, Camel, Rah, Rah, Rah! Camel, Camel, Blah, Blah, Blah! Stuff like that. I also made myself smile just before. Now I need to bring that kind of cheerleading to locust and rabbit. In both classes I killed rabbit and locust with tons of kindness, though I know I could have done better in my rabbits.

DOUBLE!

2010-01-23T22:05:00.000-08:00

Whew! I have not taken a back to back double in a long time! If I do a double, I try to spread out the fun with an AM and a PM class. However, since I am so many days behind, I have to get things done!

I felt strong in 7:30 class. There was a good energy in the room and I wasn't dying from the heat! I tried to focus on each pose and not think about the next one. I also refused to let myself cop out of doing a pose the best I could because of the double. I kept going.

In the 2nd class, we were towel to towel in some places. It was a packed class. My arms were shaking after standing deep breathing. Yikes! I was hotter, less hydrated, and tired. I could have quit on some of the poses, but stayed in most of the times I wanted to stop because of something Alison said. She told all the 60 day challengers that it wasn't enough just to show up for 60 days. In order to change your mind, your life, and your body, we would have to work hard on each and every pose in every class. No coasting on cruise control!

After class I came home, showered, and slept until it was time to go to the restaurant.

Tonight was my last shift! Someone asked me if I was sad. I definitely am not sad. I will have to budget a whole lot more, but right now, having Fridays and Saturdays back sounds nice.

Long Day - Yawn!

2010-01-22T22:24:00.000-08:00

I didn't go to yoga today. I went in to school and got ready for the day. The poor kids! You can tell what 3 days of rainy day schedule has done to them. It was like ants had crawled into their pants.

Then, it was off to my part time job. I went into CPK and was aggravated to find out that I was in a closing section. Could the long day get any longer?! It has been building for some time, but tonight I put in my two week's notice. Freedom for Fridays and Saturdays again. I won't have to request days off anymore or worry about packing yet another outfit for my day on Friday.

I will miss the cash and the luxury it has afforded me. But otherwise, sayonara!

I am planning on doubling it up tomorrow with a back to back class! 7:30 and 9:30. I won't be crazy enough to stay for advanced:

1. I don't have a strong enough practice right now.

2. I need to fit some chores in somewhere.

Night world!

Getting it done!

2010-01-19T18:26:00.000-08:00

It is pouring rain. I LOVE LOVE LOVE it. I used to live in NJ, but 9 years in Phoenix has made me fall head over heels in love with gloomy, rainy, stormy weather.

I meant to go to 5:30, but went to work early instead. I zipped on over for 4:30 class. It was taught by Jon who says at least one funny thing every class. It's nice to laugh and smile just before a really tough pose.

The back of my legs had loosened up considerably after yesterday's class. It was almost back to normal doing all those forward bends. The balls of my feet are still tender and sore. I had a hard time in the 2nd and third sets of utkatasana.

Biggest loser, dinner, knitting, and lesson plans are on the agenda tonight.

Well, ....

2010-01-18T16:49:00.001-08:00

I was going to wait and post about my 5:30 AM class after my massage that I treated myself to. Instead, here I am now! I must've been in LaLa land yesterday during the 1/2 marathon. At mile 10, the ladies I walked with called Massage Envy to book a massage for today. I got an hour massage for 39 bucks and an extra, complimentary half hour for running the 1/2 marathon. I was stoked.

All day today I kept thinking about it: at yoga this morning where I was stiff as a board, at breakfast with friends, at True Food for lunch, this afternoon when I felt oh so tired...

I got there at 5:15 only to be told that my massage had been booked for yesterday at 5:30 and that they had nothing else available. Where is my brain??? And I could have really used that massage. My legs and feet are sore from yesterday. I am going to console myself with a magazine, a kombucha, and some rice milk chocolate (no dairy!), and the Bachelor.

Yoga was fine this morning. I sort of knew that it would be a little painful during certain poses: the forward bend in 1/2 moon, standing head to knee, standing separate leg stretching, etc. I definitely felt better after, though I am still stiff right now. At least the ache in the balls of my feet has subsided. Tomorrow's class will make it feel even better.

I'm off to knit and relax!

1/2 marathon

2010-01-17T15:57:00.000-08:00

Well, folks - I did it! It wasn't pretty. It WAS pretty humbling, in fact. Results aren't in yet, but basically it took me FOREVER to reach the finish line. I know I didn't train to walk or run it. Maybe I kinda thought my Bikram practice could carry me through. I think the yoga helped, but ultimately I failed in my preparation and paid the price.
I walked the 13.1 miles with a friend's mom and her friend. I think I should've run sooner than I did. I thought it would hurt more to run. After 12 miles of slow and steady, my lower back ached and the balls of my feet were developing some pretty good blisters. I ran the last mile in to the finish. My feet hurt, but I felt better. I felt like I was going SOMEWHERE, at least.
I crossed the finish line and got my medal. It's over. I've gone some wine by my side and some knitting on the needles.

I've got a couple of pics to share - me and my friend Karla before the race (she did it in 2.18.00), my medal (number 6 for my collection of PF Chang's 1/2 marathon medals!), and my very fun tissues (without which I'd have had some horrendous porta potty incidents!)

I'm behind 2 classes now. And at this exact second, I am so pooped, I could care less! I will make up one this week and maybe one on Saturday if I go to Advanced. All I know is that tomorrow at 5:30 AM, I've got a date on my mat!

Day 16/Class 15

2010-01-16T16:42:00.000-08:00

Not quite caught up yet! I am working on it. I got to class a few minutes too late to get my favorite spot. I ended up in the back row right behind a man with a really hairy back. It was not my favorite view at all! It was being behind him or the farter. Class was strong.
I went to the race expo to get my packet. 13 miles, here I come! The weather is pretty nice, so I've got that going for me! Kyle and Paula are here for the race, too!
That's it for now!

Day 15/Class 14

2010-01-15T21:32:00.000-08:00

I am one behind! I know I will make it up, so all is good!

I went to 4:30 class. I don't think I have ever been to 4:30 class on Friday. Usually I am working at the restaurant right after school lets out. I took the weekend off to rest and prepare for the PF Chang's 1/2 marathon.
Back at school, I was a powerhouse after school let out, getting ready for the 4 day week next week. I have a student teacher starting and I wanted everything to look tidy and be ready. I was so caught up in the frenetic organizing of my classroom that I nearly bailed on yoga. But that would've made 2 days in a row. I couldn't stand seeing 2 empty spots on my sticker chart!

Once I arrived, I was happy, happy, happy. Work worries faded fast as I met up with some of the yoga regulars (Hi Tawnya and Wendy!) and put my mat down in the room. Class was great. I worked hard in every posture, except towards the very end. My stomach was all grumbly and rumbly. I HATE to leave the room, so I opted to practice what I like to call "Yoga Light".
Anyways, I'm moving on - 2 weeks down!

Raring to go! (not really)

2010-01-13T15:06:00.000-08:00

I got up - MADE myself get up. I dressed for yoga. I made breakfast for later. I packed my lunch. I made a list of things I need to do or buy. I put clothes away. I checked my farm on FB. And then I pushed myself out the door!

Class was solid this morning. Lots of people have been coming to the 5:30 AM, which always surprises me. I guess it's not all that surprising. I just know I wouldn't be there if I knew I would come later. But I am a flake, so I had better get it done first thing!

In the room, I am trying to not always pick a spot next to the podium. I would've gone on the right side, but the farter was there. So I opted for the left of my usual spot. I had a good view in front of the mirror. I worked hard and didn't sit out of any poses. I had a few perilous moments where I thought I'd skip out on locust and take a bonus savasana, but Heidi is still in my head telling me that if I do it every day, then she will as well. I can't be the one to drop the ball on this! So, I did it. They weren't beautiful and I didn't go as high as I usually do, but they got done!

LOL!

2010-01-12T19:44:00.000-08:00

Good thing I did a double yesterday!

I used it up today. I slept in and got a little R and R.

I actually washed, dried, and STYLED my hair. I put in contacts, put on eye shadow, liner, and mascara. Crazy, huh?! I even put on jewelry.

Yoga challenges make me lazy when it comes to extraneous things like accessorizing and make-up!

I worked a 1/2 day at school, attended an interesting in-service, and met with my new student teacher for 2 hours after school.

The plan was to then go to yoga. I forgot, however, about a PTSA mtg that required a good showing of teachers. So, I went to that instead of yoga. Today my day was devoted to my career. And, I have to be ready for moments like that. Good thing for those doubles!

I will still need to make up for Sunday's day off, but I've got Monday off for MLK day, so maybe I'll do a dub then!

For now, I will go grade papers!

Day 11 and a future day!

2010-01-11T20:52:00.000-08:00

I got today's class and Sunday's class out of the way. 5:30 AM class was good enough - I was just happy I woke up for it.

long day at work, blah blah blah

Back to the studio for 4:30 PM with Terri! That was a class that sped by in a blink of an eye.

I am proud that I continue to push through Locust. My rabbit was pretty good (by my own standards!). I am feeling pretty good!

In other news, I booked airline tickets to Maryland during the 2nd to last week of the challenge. What studios are near to Gaithersburg?

1/10

2010-01-10T18:48:00.000-08:00

I am one tenth of the way through this, already. April 11th seems so very far, but if the last 10 days are any example, it'll be here soon!

I worked the desk at the studio today and it was busy, but steady. An utterly enjoyable flow of happy, smiling faces! I love my studio at BYPV!

I took 12:00 class with Anthony. I love his hard hitting, energetic approach. Class always seems to fly by! I let myself relax a little into the yoga. I struggled to do locust - why do I struggle with that one? But I did it!

Back at home, I have been a roasting powerhouse - potatoes, veggies, portobella mushrooms. I was going to make kale chips for a snack - but that'll have to wait until tomorrow. I will have some slightly defrosted cherries - mmmmm.

Tomorrow I am going to double it up - 5:30 AM and 4:30 PM. I have my 1/2 marathon (that I haven't trained for) on Sunday, so I want to make sure I am covered to take the day off of yoga. I would rather just BE at yoga, but oh, well. I can mentally take myself through class as I jog/walk 13 miles. I did that during my last 10K. I would think - oh, right now in yoga, I'd be doing eagle pose, wind removing pose, etc. I guess I love my yoga!

9 already!

2010-01-09T18:39:00.000-08:00

I feel like these first few days have flown by! It'll be April 11th before I know it!

I planned on sleeping in today and heading to 9:30AM. I did sleep in, but decided to go grocery shopping and visit the bank and get it over with.

I read a book - one of those who did it? murder mystery books. Quick read.

I went in to 3:30 expecting it to be not so busy. It was plenty full - lots of familiar faces. Some basketball player was being filmed by Fox Sports News, so I was working super hard in the standing series. I wouldn't be surprised if my abs are sore tomorrow, from trying to suck it in the whole time! It was a welcome distraction, because it actually helped me focus on my form more! I also can't wait to see the clip!

Now I am roasting veggies and potatoes to put in tupperware for the week!

Day 8 - Who Knew?

2010-01-08T07:23:00.000-08:00

I did a lot of self talking this morning. I started bargaining with myself. If I slept in today, I could do a double on Saturday. But no, that wouldn't work. Hmmm...I could do a double on Sunday. But that wouldn't work either. Finally, I just had to get up and go - get out of my brain and just go.

Since I was so reluctant to head in, I thought that class would be terrible. It was great! I held onto my foot the whole time in both sets of standing head to knee! I haven't done that in ages. I did every pose. I wasn't dying or anything! Woo! Who knew the 5:30 class would be so fun?!

Ready to rock the day out!

Day 7 in the bag!

2010-01-07T18:57:00.000-08:00

Class was pretty good! One week down, about a million more to go! Heidi taught 4:30 and kept me going with an honest effort! I knew I had to push it in locust, because she was watching. She promised she'd do every locust for 60 days if I would. I am going to hold her to it. Maybe by the end of this I will actually LIKE this pose. I pushed through both sets of Triangle without feeling like complete shit!

I was tired today - I think I did too much yesterday:

AM yoga, teaching all day, after school club, tutoring at night, and then 8:15 yoga. Yuck.

Now I am playing catch up - laundry for yoga, eating noodles in browned butter (vegan) and sage, lesson planning, and dishes.

Day 5 and 6 rolled into one!

2010-01-06T16:34:00.000-08:00

I didn't get to see the mechanic on Monday. They said to bring it in Tuesday morning with NO UNNECESSARY driving. I guess he meant yoga in the AM? Maybe it wouldn't have mattered if I had gone to yoga before dropping the car off, but I am good girl - a rule follower. So, I missed. Only a few days in and I am already missing a class. This wouldn't be so bad, but I am known for the missed class pileup. It can get ugly pretty quick. So...

Today, I went to 5:30 class. I got up at 4:30 no problem! I think the key is to drink copious amounts of water before going to bed. I've figured out that 2 full glasses will have me up at 4:30, with or without the alarm.

Class was all well and good. I got lightheaded a bit in triangle and came out early first set. I sat out second set, too. Then I was putting in my good effort when along came LOCUST. I am not a fan. I try self talk, positive thinking, bribery, etc. And every chance I get, I avoid the 3rd part with both legs up in the air.

I didn't go up in the first set or the second. But after the second set, during savasana, I totally got called on it (thanks, Heidi :) ). She had me do it during savasana. She said that she's been reading my blog and I wasn't going to slide on this one! Ha! Well, maybe during the next 90whatever days I will learn to love it.

Class 6 has yet to happen. I need to finish up here at school. I run a tutoring program until 7:30, so I will be going to the 8:15 class. I've never been, so we'll see how it goes...

Monday - Hooray!

2010-01-04T10:45:00.000-08:00

Ha, not really!

My check engine light came on last night driving home from dinner. So, I drove to yoga for 5:30 AM class, feeling more than nervous that my car was going to break down in the square somewhere. I got there and walked in without my mat. I went back to the car and it wasn't there. But then I had an Ah Ha! moment and realized I had left it at the studio yesterday.

I felt strong in some poses and weak in others. I would say class was average. There was a lady who kept farting and farting. Gross! I understand a toot here and there, but when it's deliberate, it seems rude. At least set your mat up in the back, so you aren't blowing wind onto someone behind you!

Today was the first day back at work for the new year. I keep telling the kids - It's a new year and a new you! They seem to be enjoying that, especially since I told them that after 2 weeks of vacation they are starting to look like 3rd graders.

Next up - a trip to the mechanic's place. Wish me luck!

Day 3

2010-01-03T16:04:00.000-08:00

In class today, I must've been in a zone of sorts. I got told by my instructor that I had a zombie look going on. Eeep!

Something's Different and I Like It

2010-01-02T11:22:00.000-08:00

In years past, I would recommit to good habits for the new year, one of those being the gym. During the first few months of January, the place would be totally packed. I would wait for machines and dislike the crowds so intensely (even though I'm sure my presence added to someone else's general annoyance). It was hard and challenging to go into the gym and put in my time on the machines.

But with this yoga, I don't feel that way at all. I like the crowds; I welcome the crowds.

Today, I got to yoga and it was a pretty full class. Unlike the whole gym drama with sweaty strangers, I was excited to see so many of these faces - sweat and all.

It was a pretty solid class! Go day 2!

Happy New Year!

2010-01-01T20:38:00.000-08:00

No class today - day 1 was yesterday! Here are my resolutions:

1. Finish the 101 day challenge!

2. Take a multivitamin DAILY.

3. Resolve to eat pasta only 1 day a week.

I'm as prepared as possible for yoga. I have a basket of clothes for yoga. Clean tanks and shorts just get tossed in there, so I can grab and go. I've got bottles of water in the freezer.

I put my multivitamins in a baggie to carry around with me, since I don't eat breakfast at home and my excuse has been that I forget! No more forgetting.

As for the pasta deal, I had to find an alternative. So, I've roasted veggies for the week, gotten some spaghetti squash, and sweet potatoes. Shopping cost a bit more this week than usual, but I will figure it out and get the price down. Actual groceries cost way more than boxes of pasta!

I am planned and ready to go! Can't wait for Day 2 @ 7:30 AM.

Day 1

2009-12-31T21:21:00.000-08:00

100 Days Left!

I wanted to go tomorrow and start on the first. My studio, however, is closed as they are installing a new heating system. Because I've already starred April 11th on every calendar I own, I opted to start my challenge today.

I took 4:30 class with Alison. I was short on fuel and water today and really felt it this afternoon. I sat out 1 triangle. I stood out 1 balancing stick.

Alison noticed that I pull my knee to the side when I pick up my foot for standing head to knee. She said it was my 2010 mission to pick up my foot straight up in front of me. Aargh!

Went to church after with my mom and Melissa. They had a burning bowl ceremony. It was lovely. Then we went to Pei Wei. Yum. I do love me some Pad Thai!

Happy New Year!

Gearing Up!

2009-12-28T14:56:00.000-08:00

I am getting ready for the 101 day challenge. I just got back from NJ and have already set up a pile of towels, tanks, and shorts. I will still need to buy some water gallons to fill my empty Smartwater bottles.

Today I grabbed my gear and went to 5:30 AM class. Jon was teaching and it was pretty crowded for so early in the morning. He was telling a new student that she should sign up for a 60 day challenge. Then he told another guy he should be doing a 60 day challenge. Then Jon pointed at me and said that I was going to be doing a 101 day challenge. Whoa! Someone other than me is spreading the word. And now - thirty some people know that I am gearing up for 101 straight days of Bikram.

Class felt good this morning - although I felt short of breath during the standing series. I will have to get used to getting up early for class. It will mean a lot of planning and packing. I have to figure in some doubles b/c I may go away for a week in March.

101, here I come!

What's a slacker?

2009-12-17T14:15:00.000-08:00

In the dictionary, for the word slacker, you would see a picture of me.

Nicole, the studio owner, taught AM class. She teaches such a fantastic class - there's humor and light-heartedness, but she's got this steel in her dialogue and presentation that doesn't allow for anything less than your best.

I worked hard, but was really feeling the fact that I hadn't been in since Sunday. I sat out of triangle, both sets. I didn't go down all the way into toe stand - things were a little spotty at that point. Floor series was decent - I even did both sets of my nemesis - locust.

At some point, Nicole was talking about our body and our mind. She said that our bodies will crave the yoga, even as our minds can come up with ANY reason to avoid class. How true for me! My neck and back has been creaking and stiff. I've eaten some junky food and then felt pretty crappy without yoga to wipe it all out of my body. But as much as I need the yoga - my mind shouts things like BUSY!, TIRED!, LAUNDRY!, SLEEP!, ERRANDS!

Well - I am grateful for today's class. I plan on AM tomorrow. Saturday, I have a 5 K run in the morning - so no yoga. Sunday and Monday for sure and then HOME for the holidays. yay

Blah

2009-12-12T17:56:00.001-08:00

blah blah blah

Slacker

2009-12-10T14:57:00.001-08:00

I set my alarm for 4:36 AM. Tawnya even texted me to wake me up. Instead, I rolled over and had a few more hours of blissful sleep. No 5:30 AM yoga for me.

Do I feel guilty? Yes. Is there another time I could have gone today? Absolutely not.

I know I am not going tomorrow, so I will have to suck it up now and wait for Saturday, 7:30 AM class. A better hour for sure.

two 5:30 AM classes!

2009-12-09T10:52:00.000-08:00

Hey all,

I've done two early, early classes in a row. After a five day hiatus from yoga (though not from the studio), I returned to my old time at 5:30 AM. Yesterday, class was expertly led by Terri, with those soothing southern tones. It was a good class. I was so in the moment that I didn't realize she had led me into locust until savasana. It's fair to say that locust is my nemesis and I normally have to do lots of self-talk to get into the pose.

Today I got to stare at my Christmas plaid toes during class. Yipee for a pedicure! (Thanks, Tawnya) Niki led class today and I was sore and tired and blah blah blah. I couldn't get my grip because I forgot my legs were all lotiony from my pedicure. I couldn't get my mind to stay in the room

Tomorrow is yet another 5:30 to see Anthony teach his 2nd class since Teacher Training! I can't wait for that!

This is hard!

2009-12-05T06:43:00.000-08:00

I cannot seem to get to Bikram regularly! I missed Thursday because I stayed at work until 6:30 and then went home, exhausted. Yesterday I had an AM mtg, work, and then CPK til 8.

Today I am working the desk at yoga and COULD take class, but I have a billion errands to run. I have to make a decision...

Ouch!

2009-12-02T06:50:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I had a rockin' class! Alison taught and I was really in a zone. I did both sets of triangle, both sets of toe stand, and both sets of locust. Normally, if I flake, those are the poses I flake on.

But boy, oh boy! This morning, 5:30 AM class was rough. I did the full standing series and really pushed myself. There were new people behind me and that always gets me working hard. But after I lay down for my 2 min savasana, I started to get stomach pains. It was hard to focus beyond that and so I took it really easy. I haven't opted out of so many poses in a long, long time.

I guess the positives are:

1. I even made it there.

2. I had a great standing series.

3. I took care of myself.

4. The Jamba Juice I am currently drinking has helped dispel the pain.

Long day ahead. I have a mtg with a parent, school til 3, game club until 4, a trip to the bank and subway, tutoring until 7:30, and then home to clean and watch Glee.

Who doesn't need a challenge?

2009-12-01T20:55:00.000-08:00

I've been on autopilot for the past few months: teaching, tutoring, waiting tables, sleeping, yoga. I don't get to yoga as much as I should lately. I make excuses. I am also supposed to be training for a 1/2 marathon. I could make more time, but I get home and just want to do nothing!

I've done a few 60 challenges. I know people at my studio who have gone everyday for over a year!

Anyway - this brings me to this announcement. Starting January 1st, I am going to do 101 classes in 101 days.

Doubles, triples, advanced class, etc all count.

I can skip a day if I want.

I can finish earlier.

There. I said it.

Monday...

2009-11-23T19:00:00.000-08:00

Today was pretty nice. I woke up early and fiddled around on the computer before work.

I went in and we conquered everything today. The kids were great today. Thanksgiving week is good times for sure.

Bikram at 4:30 with Heidi. Maybe it was just me, but I thought it was so humid. I know I didn't hydrate well before and that I ate pretty crappily during the day, but still. I worked hard on grabbing my foot in standing head to knee and kept popping out of it. My knee wasn't locking! I came out of triangle early both sets, but I did them (when I definitely didn't want to). Heidi complimented me on my toe stand on my left leg - yeah! I seem to be stronger with everything on that side. Savasana was glorious. I avoided locust - why do I hate that one so much? But whatever - I felt so good afterward. Now I just need to go tomorrow!

Food:
Breakfast: banana, pretzels with PB
Lunch: Orange soda, pretzels with mustard, clementine
Snack: Juice box, fruity cheerios
Yoga (lg bottle water, 10 cal smartwater)
Dinner: veggie burger, fries, root beer

Am I the least healthy vegan you've ever met?