The End of My March Monthly Challenge -- How Did I Do?

Well here it is -- March 31st.  The end of Mandy's Monthly Challenge for March - my first attempt at adding more meaning to my life with regular goals. 

So, how did I do?  Well, I give myself a B+ rating.  I started off really motivated, did excellent at my 5k race; but then I slacked off during the last ten days of the month, as far as my fitness goes.   Then I ended it last night (and this morning) with a trip to the emergency room.  Soooo..... not exactly the way I would like to conclude my "stronger, healthier" me month.  Still, some of it was out of my hands. 

As it turns out, so far, I have a urinary tract infection and that somewhat explains why I've been having so many stomach and intestinal issues.  For now, I'm fine.  Just a little tired and weak from being up half the night.  I'm just glad they found "something" and I'm not crazy.  And that I'm not pregnant either.

But anyway, back to the month in review --

Now I didn't say I would complete the Jillian Michaels workout EVERY single day.  I said "ALMOST" every day.  And I did perform her routine for 23 days out of the 31 days of this month.  So not bad, I suppose?  But I wish I had done better.

I do recommend Jillian Michaels' 30-day shred DVD though to anyone wanting to shape up.  Her workout is tough but it's only twenty minutes and you really can fit that into your day, no matter how busy you are.  What I like best about this particular workout is that she moves around from strength to cardio to abs.  So you never get bored with one thing.  Also, Jillian looks like a real person, not an airbrushed bimbo.  Her hair is in a pony tail and you hear her panting hard from her own moves.  She's also not that flexible in the cool down / stretching part.  Neither am I so that makes me feel good.  Now I don't know if I want to continue doing this particular workout every day but I will try to keep doing it twice a week along with other DVD's I have, plus my treadmill and running routine (that is.... when and if my treadmill will EVER be fixed and the parts come in!) 


Doing anything consistently every day for a whole month takes strict dedication, work and no stomach viruses like I seem to keep having.   A more attainable goal would be to exercise in some manner 4-5 times per week: three to four times during the week and once on the weekends.  That fits better with my lifestyle as I like a lazy day to relax to do yardwork, chase a two year old, and vacuum the floors.  (Ha!)

One tip that helps me is that I keep a calendar in front of me when I'm on the computer or sitting at my desk.  Each day I write out what activity I've done.  Here's what my month of March looked like:

March 1 - No exercise.  Stomach virus.
March 2 - No exercise.  Stomach virus.
March 3 - 30 day shred
March 4 - 30 day shred
March 5 - 30 day shred and jogged two miles
March 6 - 30 day shred
March 7 - 30 day shred and jogged two miles
March 8 - 30 day shred
March 9 - 30 day shred
March 10 - Jogged 3 miles
March 11 - 30 day shred -- did it twice, levels 1 and 2
March 12 - 30 day shred and jogged two miles
March 13 - 30 day shred and jogged one mile
March 14 - 30 day shred
March 15 - 30 day shred
March 16 - 30 day shred
March 17 - 30 day shred and jogged two miles
March 18 - 30 day shred and walked for thirty minutes at the park
March 19 - Day of rest before race
March 20 - Completed the 5k race.  And did the 30-day shred that afternoon.
March 21 - 30 day shred
March 22 - 30 day shred
March 23 - No exercise.  Stayed busy (and lazy).
March 24 - No exercise.  Stayed busy (and lazy).
March 25 - 30 day shred
March 26 - 30 day shred
March 27 - 30 day shred and one-hour of step aerobics
March 28 - No exercise. Lazy.
March 29 - 30 day shred
March 30 - 30 day shred
March 31 - No exercise.  A trip to the ER and a diagnosis of a urinary tract infection.

Now I can look back and actually see what I've accomplished because I took three seconds each day to write it down.  Not bad!

The best thing about getting healthy and fit for my first monthly challenge is that I do feel stronger.  I can hold up my body weight in a plank position without breaking a sweat.   Okay, maybe a small sweat but I can do it.  My abs are a little toner and I just have more energy.  That's a good feeling.  Sure I've lost a few pounds and a few inches.  But for me, I like feeling that I can complete an activity without passing out (Well, except for last night..... but that's a story for another day.... I'm okay now).  Picking up my 32 pound toddler is a little easier and that is the coolest part.

Speaking of that 32 pound wacky toddler of mine, Vivian has also been a great workout buddy for me.  She has also performed Jillian Michaels' workout routine with me on several occasions. 

Check her out -- she's got the moves at only 2.5 years old:

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The below list is what helped me to complete the March Monthly Challenge.  It is also the advice I'd give others who decide to embark on a fitness journey --

(1) Write down your progress.  Track it on a calendar and put it where you'll see it every day.
(2) Stay motivated but allow yourself a slacker day here and again.  Your body may need a rest.
(3) Find a workout buddy (even if it's just your kid(s).  Encouragement is important.  You can't be self-motivated all the time.

So that's it.  One monthly challenge down.... Nine more to go in 2010.   My hope is that I will continue to do some form of each challenge as the months continue on.  In other words, I'll continue to incorporate fitness and running in April, May, June and beyond.  As each month passes, I plan to keep the challenges going but on a smaller scale other than the one I'm mainly focused on.

My next post will reveal my challenge for April.  Since I have completed a month's worth of physical work, I am ready to move on to something new.  I have mapped out a way to challenge my mind next.  After all, my body is telling me it needs a rest.  More details will be posted soon.

Thanks to all of you who are reading, commenting and encouraging me with these monthly challenges!  I  greatly appreciate it.  I wish you the same success and determination with the obstacles you are encountering in your lives as well.   Don't give up!  Keep working toward your dreams.  

(And as I've said before -- don't ignore the signs of your body telling you something --- like you might be trying to fight off an infection!)  All the best to you!

A Conversation So Disgusting That I Can't Help But Share...

WARNING: PROCEED READING WITH CAUTION! 

THIS MAY BE THE MOST DISGUSTING POST I'VE EVER WRITTEN. 

THAT BEING SAID, I STILL THINK IT'S FUNNY AND WORTH SHARING.

I have had some medical tests and doctors appointments recently.  After noticing that I've had a bit too many stomach viruses and cases of diarrhea over the past year, my doctor suggested I be tested for what might be an ulcer, gallstones or something else. 

So off I went last Tuesday to have an abdominal ultrasound and on Saturday morning to have a blood test, just as a precautionary measure.  Oh, and I had to give a stool sample too which is the reason for this ridiculous post.  So that I can share with you the revolting (yet funny) conversation that occurred between the nurse and me.

Without further hestitation - I present to you:

"Pooping for Science Purposes, 101"

The scene: Mandy sitting in a chair wating to have blood drawn.  Mandy noticing a collage of photos on a bulletin board of mostly dogs and cats.

Mandy to nurse: "Are any of those your pets?"
Nurse: "Yes, three of those are my dogs and I have one cat too."  She points out her animals in the laid out collage.
Mandy: "They are adorable.  I have a dog and a cat myself.  Also a two year old which is pretty much the same thing." 

The Nurse smiles.  It's nice to have a smiling nurse before she sticks your arm to draw blood, by the way.

Nurse looks closely at the paperwork submitted by my doctor. 

Nurse: "I see we need to collect a stool sample from you.  Have you ever had to do that before?"
Mandy: "Sadly, no." I say smirking.
Nurse: "Okay let me grab a kit and explain it to you."

She brings out this kit of pure pleasure (pictured below)



She then demonstrates what I need to do with each of the four collection tubes.  Yes, FOUR!   And she reveals that two of them require me putting enough of a sample to fill up the line of the red substance inside the tube.  What's next?  Measuring it by weight? 

Anyway, our conversation occurred like this....

Mandy to Nurse: "So I have to scoop out a sample four different times?"
Nurse: "Yes but it doesn't have to be from the same specimen.  You could take these three tubes from one sample and the other one from a different sample."
Mandy: "But if I have enough from one to fill all four I can do that, right?" 

In other words, if my shit is big enough to fill all four collection tubes, then I don't have to poop twice!  Okay, I get that.

Nurse: (Laughing) "Yes, that's correct.  You can get it all in one sometimes." 
Mandy: (Laughing) "Well what time do you close today?  Maybe I can drive up the road to McDonalds, have a greasy breakfast and a cup of coffee and soon I'll be back here with my sample."
Nurse: "We close at 11:00 a.m."
Mandy looks at her watch.  The time says 9:52 a.m. 
Mandy: "Oh darn, I don't think I can get the job done that fast.  I'll try for Monday then since you're closed tomorrow." 
Nurse: "Well, just remember that you need to bring it in on the same day you collect it.  But you can refrigerate for a few hours if you need to."
Mandy smiling because she's imagining putting her poop specimen next to the milk, butter and orange juice in the fridge. 

Mandy: "Okay, good to know.  I can just drop it off back here, right?"
Nurse: "Yes, and you can make an appointment too."
Mandy: "Really, an appointment just to drop off your samples?"
Nurse: (laughing) "Yes."

Nurse: "Oh and be sure to label your samples too."
Mandy: "You mean the collection tube for the specimens right?  Because I really don't think I could (or want to) label my actual specimens."

We both laugh at this point.

This conversation occurred while she was taking my blood and we concluded right as she finished and placed a band-aid on my arm.

Nurse: "Okay, You're done."
Mandy: "Alright then.  Well have yourself a good weekend."
Nurse: "Thanks, you too."

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I'm happy to report that earlier this morning, I was able to provide that specimen just as the nurse indicated.  Thankfully, I was able to take just the ONE sample then scoop it out carefully into the FOUR different collection tubes. 

I wish I could say that the experience was funny or interesting.  But it wasn't.  It was absolutely horrifying. 

I change diapers, clean up cat litter and pick up dog poop every day but still.... nothing quite compared me for having to be so up close and personal with my own bowel movement.  I really was close to vomitting during the scooping out process.  I guess it's one thing to turn around and flush it away but something altogether different when you're measuring it out, up to a red line.

However, in the name of science, my doctor's orders and all of my remaining humility, I peformed the act.  I leave in an hour to drop off the poop at the lab like I was told to do.   Please, oh please don't let me get into a car accident on the way there.....  "Coming through people.... fresh poop in the car..... move out of my way!!!"

The results will take a few days to come in.  But I think I know what they're going to say....

"Your body is normal but your mind (and sense of humor) is completely and utterly SICK...."  And I will wholeheartedly concur with those results. 

So, are any of you hungry after reading this post?  I know I'm not.  Aren't you glad I share the fun details of my life with you?  :-)


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P.S. -- On a serious note, if you are having any medical problems that may be cause for concern, I hope you will seek attention from a doctor or trained medical professional.  Don't ignore the signs when your body is trying to tell you something.  Even if you have to do disgusting and humiliating things like I did, a peace of mind, your health and your happiness is priceless and not something to take lightly! 

Serendipitous Sunday II

Two Sundays ago I had the idea of just jotting down a few things about my week that are good, worth remembering, fortunate or wonderful accidents that occurred. By doing this, I'll be even more appreciative of where I've been and where I'm headed in my path. This is my second edition of "Serendipitous Sunday."  If you missed the first installment, click here.

Well, I have MUCH to be thankful for this week.  In fact, I feel rather guilty since many of my friends and relatives had a very tough week. 

• I'm thankful for my health.  A very good friend of mine, JP, recently had surgery and she's been having a very tough time since then.  She even developed an infection and had to return to the hospital.  She's my age and she ignored some signs from her body for over a year.  I'm thankful that JP seems to be doing better now and that she didn't wait any longer to have her system repaired.  Please don't ignore your body when it's trying to tell you that something is wrong.

• I'm thankful that my husband has a stable job and we have a steady income right now.  This is so important in these trying times.  Two of my friends' husbands were recently laid off from their jobs.  I have been thinking about them the past few days.  (KG and JC, you've been on my mind!!!)  I pray that their families can find financial security again soon.

• I'm thankful for my marriage.  Someone I know and love is having marital problems and it really puts my own loving, wonderful situation into perspective.  Kirk and I aren't perfect.  We argue and disagree at times but so far, we always make it work.  I think it's because we are committed to communicate to each other and made a promise that sometimes we have to put each other's needs first, before our own and compromise when it's for the greater good of the family.  Plus, he's awesome and he makes me laugh.  I'm so lucky.  And I won't forget that.

• I'm thankful for my determination and end results of my 5k race (which you can read about right here).  I exceeded my expectations in a good, positive way.  I am so blessed to have a supportive family who encouraged me all the way through it too. 

• I'm thankful that March is ending and that April is near.  I'm ready to move on to a new challenge in my life.  I can't wait to tell you about what I intend to do for the next month!  That post will be coming very soon!

• I'm thankful for good friends who tell it like it is and who make me laugh.  I'm glad that they call me and count on me because I'd do anything for them.  I especially enjoyed my conversations with J, B and JP this week.

• I'm thankful for the hilarious discussion that occurred when I was having blood drawn on Saturday morning.  I did NOT feel like spending my weekend in a doctors office, skipping my coffee/tea and Kirk's scrambled eggs.  But the nurse and I laughed and laughed over what lab test I have to do next.  Don't worry -- I'm writing about that exact conversation right now, trying to remember it word for word.  Stay tuned because it will be my next post!  :-) 

• I'm thankful that the fence in our backyard is complete.  Now we have complete privacy and a great setup for barbecues and gatherings.  Also, I can just push the dog out the door whenenver he needs to do his business and not worry about him.  That goes for Vivian too, when she starts annoying me... off she will go into the backyard.  I'm kidding, well sort of....

• I'm thankful for kind neighbors who make us feel welcome and answer our questions about the community.  BR and JR are so nice and thoughtful for offering us baked goods and plants from their garden.

• I'm thankful that I am leading a proactive life and am taking control of my happiness now, more than ever.  I feel good that I'm an active person, and not someone who is helpless and waits for others to lead the way.  If you want to know more about my thoughts on that, click here. 

• I'm thankful that one of Vivian's teachers has offered to babysit for us in the future.  She seems like a very nice and trustworthy individual.  Kirk and I may actually be able to go on a real date soon! 

• I'm thankful for all the laughs that my daughter provided for me this past.  It began with her dancing with birds (see video of it by clicking here).  She is being so bossy lately, telling me to "sit down," "come here," or "no, you do it."  But it makes me smile. Sometimes I comply and sometimes I tell her she is the one that needs to do those things. 

• I'm thankful that I have lost another 1.5 pounds after being at the same weight for almost three weeks now.  I've moved past that plateau that I hit.  Just when I was becoming discouraged, the scale revealed my hard work.  And when I put on my old "fat" jeans a few days ago and they were hanging off of me, I felt like a rock star for a few minutes.  (More on that will be revealed in a future blog post.)

• I'm thankful for all this lovely spring weather we're having.  Big thanks to Kirk for his hard labor in rebuilding our lawn to make it look beautiful again. (We have a lot of holes in our grass and dead spots).  I am grateful to be outside while others are still dealing with snow and cold temperatures.

• I'm thankful that my friend just birthed a beautiful, healthy baby boy yesterday without any troubles or complications.  Way to go Dani!  I can't wait to "meet" Hudson Michael and hear more about your new adventures!  :-)

What are you grateful for today? What accidents, fortunate or not, have made your week special?  

Talent Vs. Determination / Lazy Vs. Proactive

I've been thinking about the concepts of natural talent versus those who work hard to develop a skill since I completed my 5k race.   I thought of this notion because I recently trained for about three months to jog the 3.1 mile route without keeling over. 

Now, three miles may seem like a walk in the park for some folks but I promise you, it's not easy for me!   It wasn't cushy for me even on the day of the race either. 

Nope, I actually had to (gasp!) practice running and walking for weeks in order to feel strong enough to complete the race.  My biggest problem is my breathing.  I struggle with the consistent breathing that is needed to go the distance.  I have spent most of my life doing short intervals of physical activities -- dancing routines, aerobic workouts, etc.  When I performed as a synchronized swimmer for four years as a child, I was taught to hold my breath in fact.  Therefore, just breathing regularly in the same manner for over five minutes proves to be the biggest challenge for me. 

But with continual practice, focus and determination, I did it.  I can do it.  I'm not talented when it comes to jogging or running.  I'm quite sure that my form and my feet aren't even in the correct position.  Yet I keep trying and I keep going.   I bet I could do a 10k or a half-marathon if I wanted to as well.  I'm not saying I will!  But if I put my mind to it, I know I could do it.

Some people, like former Olympic gold medalist Jesse Owens, are just born with that natural gift of being a fast runner and talented athlete.  Although they practice, they don't have to work as hard or push themselves the way that normal folks like me do.  I always wondered what it must be like to have that kind of natural ability that some are blessed to have.

I don't think I have a "natural" talent for anything except for maybe being a goofball or seeing the humor in daily life.  Writing comes easily to me but I still practice it.  And when I go days, weeks, or months without doing it, I can tell that I'm rusty.  Some people have called me a good dancer back in my younger days.  But I practiced that too.  If I had to freestyle it today, I'm sure I'd look like a huge dork since I'm used to more of a routine or structured type of movement.

But that makes me wonder.... if we really want to do something, be it running a race, climbing Mt. Everest or whatever?  If we really challenge ourselves and practice a skill over and over again, will we get better at it?  I say "Yes."  If you have true determination and will power, you will see improvements in your skills (and more importantly, in your attitude) toward a particular thing. 

A few years ago, I wouldn't call myself a very good cook or baker.  I did okay.  I managed.  But now I'm pretty damn good.  Every time we host events at the house, I receive compliments on a dish or dessert I create.  Even my dad, who is a picky eater, was asking me for the recipe of my spaghetti pie over the weekend.  Then he remarked how he doesn't normally eat mac-n-cheese but that he liked my version of it.  Guess what? I've been practicing.  I've been cooking a lot lately.  I've had some great success with it but I still fail from time to time (or choose a bad recipe, I should say...)  But I believe the more you practice, generally speaking, the better you become at something.

That can be the biggest challenge too - the practicing.  The repetition.  Over and over.  Day in and day out.  It can drive you crazy!  So it better be something you really want to do or achieve.  Or something you don't have a choice over (like working for a living).

I just finished reading my friend Crystal's wonderful blog post regarding standing at attention.  She has wonderful stories and insights.  I loved her most recent comments regarding taking a stand -- stop making excuses and do something with your life.  She was speaking toward all facets: jobs, relationships, goals, etc.   Crystal, you are so right!  I've been thinking about this a lot recently.

Could everyone do it? I say "No." Because many humans are just lazy and will always find a reason why they can't make it happen.  I hear a lot of folks complain about a dead end job, being overweight, being stuck in a loveless relationship or whatever the case may be.  Then I hear these same folks tell their same vent stories again a few weeks or months later.  What have they done to change their situation?  Nothing!  Sure we all have bad days and it's healthy to gripe about the grind.  But after awhile, it gets old.  I grow tired of hearing myself complain so I certainly don't feel like listening to others vent all the time. 

What makes some folks lazy and others proactive?  Are you born with the desire to do more?  Is it genetic?  Do some people just want to help themselves while others wait for fellow mankind to help them or tell them what to do? 

My friend B and I just had a discussion days ago regarding doer type folks versus helpless people.  We have both seen first hand that some people only work under direction while a handful of others lead the pack.  In society, I know you need both groups.  I mean, not everyone can be a leader?  But what is it about certain humans that have an innate capability to go above and beyond the idle way of life? 

A simple example of this is two women asking for directions.  I witnessed this recently while out running errands.  One lady asked how to get to a destination, needing lots of details and assistance.  The other gal said she just needed the address and could look up directions on her own using her GPS and the internet.   One person needed someone to guide her and the other person took the lead on her own.  Neither person is right or wrong in how they operate.

I never considered myself a leader but in recent years and months, I think I've stepped it up a notch.  I'm no longer on the sidelines waiting for things to happen.  I'm determining what I want to do and achieve and finding a way to do it.  I'm being self-motivated when it comes to my happiness and leading a more productive life.  Since doing this, I've felt more fulfilled and had more energy than I've had in years! 

Why do I do it?  Why do I challenge myself?  Honestly, it's hard to explain. I just feel compelled to be this way.  Why did Rudy want to play for the Notre Dame Fighting Irish football team so badly?  Something deep within us both pushes us to go above and beyond.

For me, one of the worst qualities to have is being stagnant.  I don't ever want to be complacent.  I've settled before and I don't like going down that path.  I want more.  I will do more and work harder.  I may not have the natural talent but I have the drive to develop myself into a talented individual.  I will be proactive and not lazy.

How would you describe your personality and drive?  Do you settle or do you strive for more? 

Buzzing Around and Dancing With Birds

I've been a busy, little bee for the past several days.  I haven't slowed down much since my 5k race on Saturday.  Just picture me buzzing around, trying to pollinate those around me with tips on making the most out of life.  I'm on a motivational high already thinking of how I can work through future challenges.

I have another reflective post that I intend to write about the race.  In fact, I have about ten drafts of started posts for this blog.... lots of ideas and incomplete thoughts that I haven't finished.... haven't made the time to sit down long enough to write yet.  I plan to do that soon though. 

After spending time with family visitors in town over the weekend, I then moved straight forward to a few gatherings, several doctors appointments, and babysitting and cooking for a friend in need.  It's been one thing after another, I tell you! 

But that is life!  And when spring hits and the days grow longer, somehow I try to squeeze in even more activities and chores than I did before.  Go figure!

Still despite all the buzzing around and hectic scheduling, I still find time to dance around and laugh.  But my Vivian is the true champion at having fun.  I have much to learn from her.  So until I pull myself together and tie my butt to a chair to write down complete sentences, please enjoy this short video clip of a real professional player at the crazy game of life! 

Take it away Vivian.... or as she's known around the house now -- "Dances With Birds!"  :-)

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Even on your busiest, most stressful days, I hope you can find a few minutes or even seconds to dance around and laugh!  It's good for the soul! 

I Completed The Race (And exceeded my expectations)!

Today was the day.  My first ever 5k race and the main challenge for my March Monthly goal.  And.... 

I did it!  I finished the race. 



Even better, I actually jogged the entire time with my dad.  I never stopped to walk.

And get this?  I finished FOURTH PLACE in my age category (30 - 34 years old).  Photo of my placement is pictured below:



Can you believe that?  I can't!  I mean, all I wanted to do was cross the finish line without being on a stretcher.  Then I was able to actually do the entire 3.1 miles without walking.  And to find out I received fourth place for my age group?  Well, that was like icing on the cake for me.  A real treat for all my hard work and training.

I couldn't have done it without the support and encouragement from family and friends, especially my parents and my husband.  My dad was like my coach the entire time pushing me to do better.  My husband opted not to run in the race and stood at the finish line to capture my moments on film.  My mom stayed at home to watch Vivian so we didn't have to worry about her during the chaos. 

When I arrived at home, my mom and Vivian had this sign taped to the door for me (see below).  Isn't that sweet?



I'm so lucky to have such wonderful family and loved ones in my life!

I'll admit, I was very nervous the whole way to the race.  I had the butterflies in my stomach the whole car ride there.  Then as we stood among the crowd, I felt very out of place.  Some of the participants were athletes, real athletes with toned, trim bodies and sporty running shoes.  I'm just your average person.  I began to doubt myself, I'm not going to lie.....



When the gun/siren went off, there were a lot of people -- like sardines in a can all trying to push their way out.  I really didn't like that part at all.... feeling like I was stuck in an elevator or an actor in an old Dial commercial.  But after a minute or two, the fast runners sprinted way ahead and the walkers/slower runners fell behind.  We were somewhere in the middle of them all, with a slow, steady pace the entire time.



The race actually went by quickly for me.  My dad talked and sang to me periodically.  I mostly stayed quiet and tried to remain focused on my breathing.  I wore my Zune player but kept my music on low so I could hear and take in my surroundings.  It was a gorgeous morning, sunny, clear and about 55 degrees.

This race had several hills and moderate inclines.  It was not flat but it was not real difficult either.  For my first route, I think I chose a good one when I picked the "Bayou Hills Run" of Pensacola.



As I knew we were about to cross the finish line, my dad and I sped up.  I could see Kirk smiling and taking my photo on the sidelines.

I did it!  I completed my first race and I actually exceeded my expectations by not walking and finishing in the top half for my age group.  Not bad Mandy~  Not bad at all! 

I'm proud of myself.  I trained and worked hard for this day. 

Now, I never did hit a runner's high like some talk about.  And I'm not signing up for another race.  (Not yet anyway.)   No, for me, it's about setting a goal for myself and meeting that goal.

I did what I said I would do.  And that is the best feeling of all. 

Now I have another week and three days of Jillian Michaels and my mission for March will be complete.

Bring it baby!  I'm ready! 

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Before the race began:



After we completed the race:




Let the beer drinking and dessert eating begin!~  :-)

The Mirror Effect

Remember how when you were a little girl (or boy), you loved looking in the mirror at yourself?  Do you recall spending minutes, or even hours, in front of your reflection thinking that person on the other end was so beautiful, so much fun and so entertaining to watch?  

As I watch my daughter fascinated with herself in the mirror, it got me thinking about reflection, fun and self image.  I was lucky to capture this short video of Vivian looking at herself in the mirror last night before bedtime....  A wonderful moment in time like this where she loves what she sees and who she is.  This video is something I hope we'll both remember in the years to come....

Make photo slide shows at www.OneTrueMedia.com

That is how my daughter Vivian sees herself at present day-- pretty, smiling, happy and full of life.  She never grows tired of that girl in the reflection. If I want to take a peaceful, ten minute shower, I simply put her in front of a mirror and I know she will be just fine. 

Me on the other hand, I usually try to avoid mirrors whenever possible.  I don't particularly like looking at my reflection for minutes, especially hours, at a time in the same way that my two year old does. 

When do the effects of a mirror begin to change?  When do you begin to dislike looking at yourself and seeing the fun in your reflection?

For me, I think it started around age 12, when I hit the middle school years.  Those awkward teenage years making me self conscious about everything and everyone around me.  That is when I went from a joyful kid singing and dancing to early Madonna tunes in the mirror to scrutinizing my thighs, my freckles and my crooked teeth.  The reflection had changed.  I had changed.  I wasn't sure I liked what I saw anymore. 

I suppose this is a battle that all women deal with though.  Even beautiful super models like Heidi Klum have self image issues, I am sure.  We put so much pressure on ourselves to look, be and feel a certain way. 

Now that I have a daughter though, I'm more aware of my dwindling self image as I watch her confident, care-free attitude blossom each day.  I want her to stay like this -- loving who she is and not fretting over every little detail the way I sometimes do.  But if I'm not practicing what I preach, then will she listen to me when I say she's pretty in ten years? How will she see herself at age twelve and beyond? 

Beauty isn't just on the outside.  In my opinion, it's mostly about your attitude.  One of the reasons I began my monthly challenge with a physical goal is that I did want to improve the way I look.  But I mainly wanted to improve my attitude. Sometimes with beauty and strength, you do have to start with the outside and work your way in. 

What I've noticed since training for my 5k race and since completing Jillian Michaels' 30 day shred each day this month (so far) is that I do feel stronger.  Both physically in my appearance and mentally in my attitude.   My husband and a few friends have been paying me more compliments about how I look and about how I act around them.  I really like feeling this way.  That, 'Yes, I can do anything I set my mind to' kind of feeling. 

Now I wouldn't say that I LOVE to see myself in the mirror currently, certainly not the way that Vivian does.  But I'm not running from it either.   I'm not avoiding it for two years the way I did when I was pregnant and after Vivian was born.   Sometimes I jump right in there in along with Vivian to have a little fun, just like I did when I was her age. 

And every so often, when I am alone and I catch a random glimpse at my reflection, I might even crack a tiny smile.  Then I tell myself, "Not bad, kiddo.  You're on the right track.  Look at you now compared to where you've been." 

That's the kind of mirror effects that I hope will continue in my life, from this point forward.  And the kind of self image lessons that I want to instill intoVivian-- Look at you now!  You're on the right track.  See where you've been and how far you've come.  And I love you my beautiful girl!  

Now, if you don't mind, I'd like to pause to reflect just where Vivian has been and where she is now:

Vivian, at age 2 months




Vivian, at age 2 years and five months



Yes! That's my girl!  :-)

Domestic Disease And My Freezer Addiction

My test results are in.  The doctors tell me that there is no turning back now.  This post is a cry for help.  Someone please save me from this latest addiction.

Back in mid-January, I revealed to you that I had a new obsession -- meal planning.  Well this obsession is almost a full-time hobby now at two months later.  I just took inventory of my deep freezer.  Frosty (that's my freezer chest's name) is begging me to stop placing food items in him.  He is threatening to melt my pureed vegetables and my sausage links if I don't put an end to this madness. 

Here's why he is upset with me -- and what I have stocked in my freezer at this very moment:

• 13.5 pounds of ground turkey (bought on an unbelieveable sale at Wal-Mart)
• 6 bags of boneless, skinless chicken breasts (a deal I couldn't pass up at Publix)
• 9 pounds of turkey sausage links (less than $2 per package.  I couldn't resist!)
• 1 sirloin pot roast
• 13 homemade granola bars
• About two dozen homemade pancakes in various varieties - blueberry, chocolate chip and banana
• Blueberry muffins
• 3 cups of frozen strawberries
• 6 cups of frozen blueberries
• Over twenty 1/2 cup portions of various pureed vegetables - spinach, broccoli, yellow squash, carrots, and much more
• 3 cups of mashed avocados
• 3 pounds of diced ham
• 3 loaves of wheat bread
• 2 loaves of corn bread
• 2 packages of whole wheat tortillas
• 10 bags of shredded cheese in various types - cheddar, mozzarella, etc.
• Sloppy Joes - servings for 8
• Pizza Pasta - servings for 10
• Hummus dip - servings for 10
• Meatloaf - servings for 3
• Chicken Coconut Soup - servings for 4
• Turkey chili - servings for 4
• And there is more in there too -- but I'm too lazy to list out any more. 

Whew!  So you see, I'm either completely insane or completely brilliant.  I could eat from my freezer and not have to cook a fresh meal for a month if I wanted to. 

But gawd help me if we lose electricity and all my precious stocked items become ruined.  You'll hear me cussing and stomping my feet from wherever you are. 

The crazy thing is that I have NEVER been like this in my life.  I was not one to freeze leftovers or make double the recipe amounts to save for later.  Since I have been married, (and even before that), I would cook fresh meals.  But I never bothered to plan ahead.  I didn't realize the headaches and the money I would save by doing some simple preparation and planning. 

It began in November 2009 when I was stuck in a rut, eating the same meals I've cooked forever for my family.  I wanted something new....  I wanted something healthier that I could prepare for my husband and daughter. 

Several friends recommended the cookbook, "Deceptively Delicious" by Jessica Seinfeld.  A few days later, I purchased a copy.  That was the first step that got me thinking about preparing vegetables and making purees to include in my meals.  This served two goals of mine -- planning ahead and including a vegetable in my dinners.

Then I met a friend here in Florida - her whole eating lifestyle revolved around her freezer.  Plus, she had compiled a whole document full of tasty, freezer-inspired recipes that she was willing to share with me.  She encouraged me to take the next step.  She regularly eats from her freezer for a week at a time if she doesn't feel like cooking.  Did I mention she has two young boys under the age of three, eats no processed foods and uses cloth diapers?  Thanks Briony, you're amazing (and a bit insane yourself)!  :-) 

I also contacted my pals Jess from Pennsylvania and Jen from Wisconsin for their regular meal planning recipes.  They both use Excel spreadsheets to track what they prepare for their families.  I simply copied their hard work and made it my own style, to fit my needs. 

It took some initial work - about three weekends in a row, two hours each weekend of steaming, chopping and pureeing veggies.  But the dedication paid off.  And now I'm stocked and hooked on this new lifestyle. 

And because I love to blog and enjoy reading blogs, I mostly turn to other bloggers for wonderful, healthy recipe ideas.  I don't go for fancy, elegant dinners with tons of ingredients.  I rarely even look at The Food Network or sites like that for inspiration.  Nope.  I just locate other moms, other wives like me, who are also out there cooking for their families, trying to provide a well-balanced meal.  Those have been the best recipes I've made to date.

I don't coupon very often.  But I do look for bargains in the grocery.  I scan the BOGO baskets (buy one, get one free).  I pay attention to the prices of meat and produce so I can spot a good deal when it comes along.  But I choose what recipes I want to make a week to a month in advance, depending on my mood.  Then I only grocery shop for the ingredients I need to make the recipe, unless I come across a really great deal in the store.  I make a list and I stick to it.

No one has tutored me along the way.  I just figure it out as I go along.  I can tell you that my family rarely eats out now and we're saving a lot more money, even without much couponing efforts by me.  Also, most things don't require a lot of defrost time either.  Most soups and stews can be microwaved or reheated over the stove.   Most breads, pancakes and muffins can be nuked straight from the freezer.   Thawing out doesn't take as long as you may think for most items.

It's funny how this domestic disease soaks into your body though, after you get started.  I almost peed in my pants when I walked through a farmers' market recently and saw pints of blueberries for 99 cents.  Immediately I thought of all the blueberry muffins and pancakes I can make with them.  How sick is that! I tell you~

But for me, it's been a strangely, creative outlet.  Cooking?  Yes, cooking.  Meal planning and freezing items for later?  Yes!  For what I know now is that a carefully planned, delicous meal can be a work of art.  When you're having a rough day and nothing seems to go as you hoped, you at least know that your tacos and guacamole dip are going to taste fantastic.  Also, all this cooking and staring at food recipes all the time has strangely led me to weight loss too.  Since I've meal planned, I have lost fourteen pounds.  Again, because I make the time to plan for healthier meals with better ingredients.

Food is something everyone loves and enjoys talking about too, I find.  Eating is a common ground that all humans share.  I rather enjoy talking about what I eat and the steps I've taken to plan my meals and track them.   In fact, I have shared my meal planning spreadsheet that I've created with over twenty different people now.  If you want a copy of it, post your desire for it in the comments section and I'll share it with you as well.  Or send me an email at littlebit.mandy@gmail.com and I'll hit reply with the attachment so you can catch my domestic disease too.

My spreadsheet is updated every week.  I'm always adding new things to it -- I am constantly finding unique food blogs or making a new list of healthier snacks I want to whip up.  That is one of my favorite things to do here lately - make a delicious dessert that is lower in calories and fat.  So far, I've discovered chocolate bran muffins and whole wheat banana bread that are out of this world! 

I'm definitely on a muffin kick lately too.  I wonder if I should start my own shop -- "Mandy's Muffins - Eat More And Weigh Less!"  As long as it's not just muffin tops.  Hahaha!  We all know that idea was taken and ridiculed in the Seinfeld series.

Perhaps I should open up a bed and breakfast.  I've gotten pretty good at making several egg casseroles and I always have pancakes stocked in the freezer now too.  After nearly drowning my coffee pot a week ago, I finally mastered the art of making a decent cup of joe too.

So perhaps this domestic ailment of mine can be salvaged into something for the greater good.  If I can share my ideas, help others or feed the hungry guests in my home, then I'm not just an insane, former working Donna Reed type. 

What do you think?  Do I need an intervention?  Or do you secretly envy me and want me to send you my spreadsheet so you'll be infected by this cooking and freezing disease too?


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Editor's Added Note:  If you plan to undertake this kind of meal planning and freezing, you will need a deep freezer or chest.  It will make storing much easier.  We found one during a Labor Day sale almost three years ago.  Check your local listings for sales or even Craigslist.  Also, I have my freezers organized with plastic baskets.  For instance, I have all my ground meat in one basket.  Stacked below that is a basket with my pureed veggies and so on and so on.  Having a file system so to speak for your meals and ingredients makes it so much easier to find things when you need them.  That is another trick I learned from my friend Briony. 

Serendipitous Sunday

On Sundays, I typically feel relaxed and humbled from the week.  Sunday is a day where although I don't attend church or practice religion regularly at this point in my life, I still take the time to offer my own thanks. 

I express gratitude toward the earth and my family.  Reflection is a huge part of me.  I like to look back and determine what went well in my life that put me where I am today.  I grow so tired of others complaining all the time when there is so much to be thankful for these days.

This morning I had the idea of just jotting down a few things about my week that are good, worth remembering, fortunate or wonderful accidents that occurred.  By doing this, I'll be even more appreciative of where I've been and where I'm headed in my path.  I would like to make this a regular part of my blog, if not every week then at least a few times per month. 

Also, Simone at Chocolate Covered Daydreams, a wonderful blog mentor of mine does a regular "Things I've Learned Thursday" which I always enjoy reading.  So she was partly my inspiration too for this Sunday segment.

So here goes, what I'm grateful for from the week March 8 - 14, 2010:

•   I'm grateful for the wonderful time that resulted from visiting with Kirk's mom Debbie (who had stayed with us last weekend through Tuesday).  She entertained Vivian endlessly and now the Diva won't stop asking about her.

• I'm grateful for that Tuesday shopping excursion and the scrumptious sushi lunch I had when I haven't eaten rolls in a long time!

• I'm grateful for my beautiful, funny daughter who made me laugh a lot this week.  She is my workout partner and will often do Jillian Michaels with me.  In between my laughter at her trying to perform the moves, I grunt at the ab exercises Jillian makes me do.  Then as I'm panting and sweating, Viv will offer me hugs and kisses.

• I'm grateful that Kirk is finally over his sinus infection and feeling well again.  I am so very lucky to have a wonderful, loving and comical husband who still makes me laugh after seven years of marriage.  Like yesterday when we played badminton in our yard....  I teased him over getting too close to the net; then he threw me a line from the movie Zoolander that had me roaring hysterically for several minutes. 

• I'm grateful for the beautiful spring weather we had and the family time we spent on Saturday.  Our failed attempts at flying a kite were still fun.  Pushing Vivian in the swing and seeing her happy face was a joy.  Watching Kirk,Vivian and our dogo Bon play and imitate each other is more entertaining than old episodes of The Three Stooges.

• I'm grateful that I have kept up my challenge for March.  I've been doing my workout routine every day and I've gotten in various jog this week.  Although my treadmill is still broken, I've been able to jog outside in warm, sunny weather four times.

• I'm grateful that the new, healthier recipe I made for Rice Krispie Treats came out so yummy.  And that Kirk liked the new ham, potato and corn chowder I cooked too.

• I'm grateful for all the terrific conversations I've had with friends and family members over this past week, even some of my blogging buddies.  They really made my days special.  Dad, thanks for your encouragement and advice as the day of the 5k race nears.

• I'm grateful for everything in my life and to be able to have the abilities to share my life through writing with others.

What are you grateful for today?  What accidents, fortunate or not, have made your week special? 

Rebel Without A Clue (Or Stupid Things I've Done Over The Years)

I'm in a funny, light-hearted kind of mood right now.  Motivational, self-help Mandy has the day off today.  Jillian Michaels has her in a headlock for slacking off this week.  So it's just goofy Mandy here now.  :-)

And why am I talking and typing about myself in the third person?  Don't you hate it when people do that?  Anyway....

A day ago, I was speaking to a friend I've known my entire life.  I'm talking since we were in diapers together.  JP and I were babysat by the same lady while our mothers taught at the same school.  That's how way back she and I go.

This friend, JP,  has all the good dirt on me.  Every time we talk, she reminds me of something silly or outrageous I have done in the past. 

Well today I thought.... Why not share some of those things?  They are the kind of stories I'll reveal to Vivian someday anyway.

So here goes....  The rebellious things I've done in my younger days..... a time where I didn't use my head and usually got caught red-handed by my shenanigans:

• 
  
  In second grade, I remember mocking the teacher behind her back.  Except I was way over-doing it.  While Mrs. Arceneaux was writing simple math equations on the chalk board, I decided to show off to my classmate by flinging my arms wilding and uncontrollably.  I also made lots of "nanny-nanny-boo-boo" facial expressions.  Well, wouldn't you know it?  The teacher turns around and catches me in the act.  I spent the next half hour in the hallway on my knees while all the other classes went by on recess and laughed at me.  I cried and hung my head in shame.

• 
  
  Also, while I was in elementary school, probably around third or fourth grade, I had my hand slapped by the lunch lady in the cafeteria.  That's what I got for trying to take two extra chicken nuggets from the hot plate.  Oh yes!  I'm serious.  The three or four strips weren't good enough for me.  I wanted more and took matters into my own hands, only to have those hands slapped by a woman with a hairnet.  My firend JP says I later became sick and threw up over the whole ordeal.  I don't remember that part but I won't deny it either. 

• 
  
  Sometime around age 11, when New Kids On The Block was all the musical rage, I attempted my first crime -- theft.  I had posters of Joey and Jordan all over my walls but I wanted more.  So while in the local K&B pharmacy/drug store, I gathered up my Bop magazine where I had inserted torn out poster pages from the Seventeen magazine that I wasn't purchasing of my favorite five guys.  I must've looked awkward or guilty because the checkout clerk decided to flip through the magazine I was purchasing only to discover the extra pages in there.  "How did that get in there?" I tried to play off and said I'd return it to the shelf for another copy.  Then I sprinted down the aisle and slipped out the back entrace with a red face and a sad heart.  I haven't tried to steal anything since then.

• 
  
  In high school, (don't remember which grade), three of us girls planned to have a sleepover at another girl friend's house.  As it turned out, that friend didn't get permission from her mother and we had already arrived at her doorstep with bags in hand.  Since none of us wanted to go home and were too lazy to call our parents, we found an alternative just a few blocks away - at a BOY's house that we knew.  This boy was one of our classmates who was dating our other friend.  His parents weren't home so he and his older brother didn't mind.  Before you go thinking the worst, NOTHING happened.  I swear.  All three of us girls slept on the floor in a guest room.  It was not comfortable and it was not fun.  But somehow, my parents did find out a few days later.  And let's just say I was grounded for a month.  Maybe even longer.  My mom even drove me to that boy's house to confront him and his parents about the incident.  Also NOT fun.   To this day, I still do NOT know how my folks found out what we did.  (Mom and Dad, if you're reading this blog entry.... I'm over 30 years old now... how did you know?  Who told you? )

• 
  
  My senior year of high school proved to be my most rebellious year (without a clue) to date.  I kicked things off by going to a classmate's house without my parent's permission -- one of those girls who had a party where lots of alcohol was involved, and on a school night too.  Well, I was trying to be a big shot.  I started off with a few beers, moved onto a few shots of various hard liquors, threw in a few daquiris, and then gawd only knows what else after that.  I never went to sleep that night and I wasn't completely sober the next morning when I drove to school.  I ended the drinking fest with some greasy breakfast from McDonald's.  Yes, you heard me correctly.  Nothing like hash browns, fake eggs and bacon to wash down that peppermint schnapps.  So by the time my second class in school had come along, my stomach had more than it could take!  I threw up.  But get this!?  I threw up sitting at my own desk and in my own shirt.  Ya know, so I wouldn't disturb anyone (except my own sick mind, I suppose??)  I don't know what the hell I was thinking???  That hiding it at my desk trick didn't last long though, as the day went on.  During each additional class, I felt worse and worse.  And I really shouldn't have forced myself to do the dance team performance during lunchtime pep rally either.  Because that probably led to me spewing in classes 4 and 5 by the afternoon.  In fact, it was TWO days later before I finally felt like me again.  I missed the football game on Friday night and had to surrender my duties as dance team captain.  I was too hungover.  But hey, at least I proved a point..... the point that alcohol and Mandy on a school night combined with greasy breakfast foods do NOT mix!  

• 
  
  A few months after the school hangover incident, I became cocky once again.  Not over alcohol this time.  I didn't touch that stuff for awhile after that.  But I thought I was untouchable and that I could leave school early if I wanted to, without anyone finding out.  My boyfriend at the time was on his spring break from college.  What's the harm in missing the last two school periods of the day? Especially since one of them was my "free" period of the time where I volunteered in the guidance office.  Well the problem with that is.... that if the guidance counselor (you gotta love Mrs. G) expects you to be there and you're not, she becomes worried.  And then she checks in with your last class of the day to discover that you're not there either BUT you were in classes 1 through 4.  So she becomes more worried.  You're a good kid, after all.  You don't get into trouble.  She calls your parents at work.  They become worried too.  Worried enough to start making calls looking for you. Until they catch you.... at your boyfriend's house......not at school.  They are no longer worried.  They are very angry now.  I'm grounded.  Again.  Insert lots of yelling.  All because I was a rebel without a clue.
  
  

• 
  
  I had one more incident of stupidity during my first semester of college that I haven't told many people to this day.   I was still paired with the goofy high school boyfriend.  He was going to a college about four hours away from mine, in a small hick Mississippi town.   I drove by myself to see him.  After getting lost, being scared and thinking I'd never find him, I arrive at his doorstep only for him to tell me me to go back home.  No girls were allowed on his campus.  But he did manage to sneak away with me for a half-hour, to a disgusting diner about fifteen minutes away.  This was the ONLY place to eat food within an hour's radius.  That is how small and hick this place was where he stayed.  Stupid, stupid me orders a three course meal at this diner before I kiss my boyfriend good bye.   Our relationship went downhill shortly after that evening (thank gawd).  But oh the memories of that visit and that diner stayed with me for the entire four hour drive back to my Louisiana college dorm room.   At one point, I had to pull over on the side of the road to relieve my bubbling stomach pains.  Yep, you guessed it.  I did number two on the side of the road.  In the middle of nowhere, Mississippi.  Pitch black.   Cue music from "Deliverance" and someone jumping out to make me squeal like a pig.  Thankfully though, it was just me in my humiliating moment.  And after I wiped my butt with my socks, since I had no tissue or toilet paper handy, I vowed not to do anything like that again. THIS IS IT I said to myself.   I'M DONE with this side of me.

Shortly, after my road adventures, I came to my senses.   That boyfriend quickly became history and I ditched my rebellious ways. 

After all, it just wasn't me.  I felt bad.  I'd either get caught Or Karma would hand me a silver platter filled with truth and consequences that I didn't need.  

Since those crazy days, I've been a mostly good girl.  Yes, I can honestly say that. 

But oh, what fun it is to look back at how incredibly stupid I was!  

I hope you enjoyed my stories.  I hope I made you laugh.  I hope I even shocked you! 

We all do dumb things from time to time.  I'm no exception. 

At least I've lived to tell about my tales and I'm not afraid to reveal my goofy antics.  They are a part of who I am today, poop-filled sock and all.  (Just kidding!  I left that sock on the roadside, of course!  A family of flies had a great meal that night!)

I look forward to laughing and sharing these stories over drinks with my daughter someday......  

There Is No Secret Ingredient.

Recently we watched the adorable animated film, "Kung Fu Panda."  What a precious movie this was! 

I adore the overall message in this film.  It really had me thinking deeply for several days.  Yes, a cartoon!  What's wrong with that? 

At the end of the movie, Po (the Kung Fu panda)'s father tells him that there is no secret ingredient in his famous selling noodle soup.  In other words, people (like his restaurant customers) just have to believe that there is something special in there in order for it to be special. 

Po's Father: “The secret ingredient to my secret noodle soup is.... There is no secret ingredient.”

And this is just the key that Po the Panda needs to realize his true powers. His father's concept is confirmed when Po opens the famous Dragon scroll (which is supposed to hold all the Kung Fun moves and special skills needed to rule the kingdom).  For he sees nothing inside of it, except for his reflection.

I love that!

There is no secret ingredient.  You just have to believe that there is one, in order to believe in yourself.

Isn't that philosophy true about so much in life?  You could apply that to so many things in the world around you.

It's true that Olympic athletes may have been born with natural talent (and hopefully not gotten ahead from using performance enhancement drugs) and skills in the particular sport they do.  Yet, somewhere along the way, they began to believe that they could be the best at their sport.  Then they worked hard and climbed their way to the top.  They may not have done it alone but they believed within that they could reach the Olympics.

It's true that recipes have ingredients that could make or break a flavorful dish. But someone, somewhere first came up with the idea of what should go into a meal because they believed it would be good.  The cook believed it was worth writing down and sharing with others.  And now the rest of us can modify it to our specific needs and likes.

Designer labels may have cost the original seamstress less than twenty bucks to make.  But someone, somewhere decided to place a $200 price tag on it because it is "worth" that much. And people buy into into, literally, because they believe it is special.

We do things because we believe we can.  We want certain things because they hold some special place within our hearts.  And if we want something bad enough, we find a way to make it a reality.  There is always a resource out there that we can use in terms of support and education to reach our goals and our potential. 

On the flip side, if we don't make things happen, it is probably because we lack faith and determination (and perhaps we're just lazy).  I should know, I've been there before....  Sitting back making excuses on why things were so bad in my life, instead of taking action to resolve my frustrations. 

Getting the most out of life takes work.  Sure I realize that some people fall into the right opportunity at the right time.  And sometimes mother nature throws a national disaster in your direction too.  There are some fortunate (and very unfortunate) accidents. 

Still, despite all that, we have choices.  We choose how to live each day and we choose the kind of person we want to be.  Personally, I think that is really friggin' great! 

Now, think about the ingredients you want to put into your life.  Take a look at your own reflection.... Are you living up to your full potential?  I really believe that you have powers to further enrich your life and the lives of others as well.  You just have to want it bad enough and perform the work it takes to get there.  The stars and the sun's alignment cannot compare to the decisive mind of a determinded individual. 

I hope you can find that something special within you.  Just like Po the Panda. 

An Ode To Jillian Michaels

"The toughest trainer out there"
That's what you said
I hear it every damn day
As I complete your 30-day shred.

You're so annoying to me
With your horse-shaped face
Always barking orders
Telling me to pick up the pace.

Guess what, you don't scare me
Even though you sound like a man
I'll pull out your long pony tail
In your eyes, I'll throw Florida sand.

By the way, my boobs are bigger than yours
Your abs aren't even that tone
But mine look like a worn out tire
So I guess that's why I groan.

Still every day this March
I will get through your workout routine
To prove to myself that I can be stronger
And do, not just say, what I mean.

So instead, let me reply, "Thank you"
For helping me work toward my goals
Now if only I could have Gwen Stefani's midriff?
And the booty of Beyonce Knowles?

Dear Minor Setbacks,

Dear Minor Setbacks,

You don't scare me.  You will not make me fold under pressure.  I have a monthly challenge for March and I'm going to complete it, no matter what.

First you gave me a stomach virus on March 1 and 2.  In your sick mind, you may be trying to teach me a valuable lesson.  But that is a cruel, very un-Mr. Miyagi kind of philosophy.  And I will catch the fly with my chopsticks without your help, thank you very much. 

Next, you somehow managed to jam the console on my treadmill making it impossible for me to use for perhaps the next two weeks. That was low, by the way.  Who did that inside job for you?  Was it the dog, the cat or even my own sweet Vivian? 

You even managed to get the Nordic Track technician to lie for you, saying I have (a) a problelm with my console, (b) a problem with the controller, or (c) a problem with the wiring that connects the two together.  Hmmmm, and it worked just FINE for the past three and a half years and FINE just days ago when I last used it before you poisoned me with the stomach plague.  Again, I will repeat....  This is a really, really low and a dirty stunt to pull with me just fourteen days away from my race.

Then you caused me to stub my toe!  Don't deny it.  I know you forced that table to jump right out in front of me with full-on hockey goalie gear.  What's next?  Me in a body cast?  But I am prepared to become Wayne Gretzky and slip by you in the next table rounds!

I will not give up.  I will not quit.  Do your worst.  I'm ready for you. 

Setbacks may put me behind.  They may cause me to throw up for 24+ hours.  They may cause me to run outdoors in the cold, windy weather.  They may even cause me to say endless profanity in front of my two year old as I bump into pieces of furniture around my house. 

But they won't cause me to quit.  I'm still a contender.

And guess what?  My gloves are about to come off!  The March Monthly Challenge is still on!

Mandy's Monthly: March 2010 Challenge - A Stronger, Healthier Me

I've had to rewrite and retitle this post several times.  More on that in a minute......

First, thanks to all of you who sent me one-year blog anniversary wishes from my last post!  And thank you to those of you who were brave enough to send me your numbers so I can call you.  I've had the pleasure of hearing some of your charming voices.  Others, I've had to leave messages.  And some I have yet to call.  It may take me up to a week to get everyone as I just remembered I have a guest coming into town tomorrow (and I have a guest room to clean and laundry to do)!  So if I don't catch you this week, I'll be dialing your digits soon enough! 

And now....Welcome to Mandy's Monthly, a new segment that I'm introducing on this blog.   My plan is to create a challenge for myself every month and then talk about it here. 

My challenge for March 2010 is to be A Stronger, Healthier Mandy. So, how will I achieve that?

Honestly, I'm not off to a very good start at being healthy since I spent the greater part of March 1 and the first half of March 2 dealing with a stomach virus.  Yes, the first two days of March were extremely fun times that included me hugging the porcelain goddess for hours on end with leakage coming out of all holes. 

Then just after midnight on March 2, I stumbled into the bathroom for a third time with the sensation to blow chunks.  Somehow I blacked out, ran into the wall, tripped over our floor heater and hit my head on the cabinets.  The end result was my body sprawled out across the floor.  I don't remember quite how it happened.  I just recall Kirk standing over me with great concern, asking me if I was okay and trying to lift my arms.  (Reminds me of my drunken college days, except the booze made me more limber back then.....)  I'm still feeling soreness in my body two days later from this incident.  Kind of like someone kicked the crap out of me but I don't remember how exactly it happened.

So, originally, my goal was to be A Stronger, "Slimmer" Mandy in March.  However, throwing up, falling down and losing all water in my body is not what I had in mind to reach that achievement.  Therefore, I reserve the right to change my challenge and my title.  I now intend to be A Stronger, "Healthier" Mandy instead. 

But enough about my ailment which is on the mend now, thankfully.  Back to my challenge...

Well, while basketball fans are gearing up for the March Madness games, I intend to be training for my first, ever 5k race. I'm nervous and excited over thoughts of completeing 3.1 miles in front of other people and not the privacy of my treadmill with me singing along to Billy Idol's "Dancing With Myself" and "White Wedding" tunes.

Running (or walking/jogging) a race is something I've considered doing for awhile now. I just finally put my dream into effect by actually signing up for a race. The race begins on March 20th at 7:30 a.m.  My dad is going to do the race with me.  And probably Kirk too.

Since that still leaves me with a week and a half of nothing to train for at the end of the month, I'm making this a two-for challenge. Because I've let myself become chubby during and after my daughter Vivian's birth over two years ago, I've been working hard to slim down since October 2009.   I've lost thirteen pounds so far and I'd like to lose about another seven pounds by the end of April. (But not via any more stomach viruses, please!!)

Therefore, when I'm not jogging or preparing for the race, I intend to do the Jillian Michael's 30-day Shred almost every day for the month of March.  I have to say "almost" since I skipped it on March 1 and 2 due to my intestinal issues.  Funny, I feel like I did complete her workout on those days,  after all the aches and bruises I have after my nasty fall a night ago.  Oh, if only a video camera had captured those magical moments....  But seriously, going forward, I will be my own personal trainer and not allow myself to miss a workout..... unless another serious virus arises or my death bed is upon me.

Jillian's workout is only twenty minutes and there are three different levels -- beginner, intermediate and advanced. So if I'm feeling a bit sluggish or need rest, then I'll do her beginner's workout at a moderate speed.   And NO, I get nothing for mentioning Jillian Michaels or that show she's on...what is it? The Biggest Loser? I've never even watched an entire episode of that reality series. I really don't watch much television at all. I have only heard of her through friends. Then I spotted her workout DVD for just nine bucks during a shopping trip recently. That's how she was chosen.

Anyway, not only do I hope that her concept works-- that I really do shred myself in 30 days-- but I also want to commit to doing something daily like that. It's a great way to kick off this "Mandy's Monthly" segment -- by actually doing something nearly every day for a whole month.

Overall though, this monthly segment is going to be about what I have achieved at the end of every month. In addition, I will talk about what I've learned (if anything) and any obstacles I encounter along the way.  We all have our bad days (ahem, vomitting on March 1 and 2) or our bad weeks. Life gets crazy. But in a month's time, I believe you can do amazing things with focus, determination and hard work.  And by laughing at yourself too.

I'm going to prove that to you (and to my own often cynical, skeptical self). Stay tuned for my progress report later this month. 



"Keep on beginning and failing. Each time you fail, start all over again and you will grow stronger until you have accomplished a purpose - not the one you began with perhaps, but one you'll be glad to remember." --Anne Sullivan (teacher of Helen Keller)

My Blogiversary, My First Post, A New Segment, And A Unique Giveaway

Happy Blogiversary To Me!

Exactly one year ago (on March 2, 2009), I began this blog.  Today is my Blogiversary as it's known to other fellow bloggers. 

I'm not quite sure what made me type my very first post one year ago.  I had friends who had been blogging for awhile and they raved about it.  I'm typically always behind on the trendy stuff though.  I resist until I find a reason to do it.  I suppose one year ago I found a reason.

Early last year, I was very frustrated with things in my life.  I was having a hard time being a mother.  I felt like a failure.  Vivian wasn't walking yet and she was fourteen months old.  Developmentally, she seemed behind the curve.   Plus, I wasn't truly happy in my career.  I wasn't making time to exercise or take care of myself.  This site actually began out of my need to escape from reality.
 

My Very First Blog Post
This was my very first post a year ago.  Here, I'll paste it below:

"March 2, 2009:  Figuring It All Out

Maybe one day I should be on a Jeopardy show. Not that I know a damn thing about obscure knowledge or history or literature. But I'm always asking questions. I could invent a game about questions.



I'm the one that can always come up with something to ask about. Have I always been this way? I'm not sure. I don't remember. My memory stinks and it has gotten worse ever since I had my daughter (October 29, 2007). I'm always analyzing this or that about myself, my life, my choices, the fruit in the grocery aisle, my socks with the holes in them, and so on and so on.


I wonder if I'll ever be truly satisfied or find a place where I can just be and relax. At age 30, I had hoped I would have had more things figured out by now. Nope! I'm more confused now than ever. I struggle with being a good mom, a good wife, a good friend, a good person. Do I believe in God? Do I really need that piece of chocolate? Why didn't I remember to pick up that liquid dish detergent on my way home? It's always something....


Maybe writing this blog will help me figure things out. Or maybe it will just be fun or a journey that I can share with my daughter Vivian someday. We'll find out. Let the fun (and lots of questioning) begin...."

--------------------------------------

That's it.   My first post, unedited.  Nothing special.  But it is honest.  And I was still trying to find my voice after being quiet for way too many years. 

I think back to my mental state last March. I felt so differently back then.  I wasn't very happy.  I stayed up a lot of nights worrying and questioning.  Don't get me wrong, I still do that sometimes now, but not as often.  And I'm always working toward ultimate happiness, but I'm many steps closer to it today than I was one year ago.

I actually gained the courage to start this blog after I won an essay contest through a local newspaper and online site.  The essay was about being a frustrated mom.  Here is the post about that essay and the fun spa day I had because of it.  Winning that contest, even though it was a small event, gave me the courage to start this site as well.  Each day I gained a little more confidence in myself as a writer.  And that was me, one year ago.

Today, a year later, well.....I'm still me.  But I feel like I'm in a much better place, mentally and physically.  I have a better attitude and I'm taking control of my happiness in a whole new way.   And I am reassuring myself that it's okay not to have the answers to all your questions.  Sometimes the unknown is where you're supposed to be.  The fact that I am questioning means that I'm on the right path. 

Since last year, I've changed the priorities in my life.  I'm not very focused on writing for a newspaper or magazine, or even beginning a novel, play, short story or poem these days.  In fact, besides this blog, I'm not even doing a whole lot of writing.  Sometimes I feel down about that but on most days, I'm okay with that.  After all, I'm really enjoying being a mom these days.  That's SO DIFFERENT than how I felt last year.  I'm also reinventing myself by creating new challenges, which brings me to my next topic....

A New Blog Segment Is Coming Soon

Right now I am very interested in making positive changes in my life, my attitude and those skeptics around me.  So true to my stagnant nature, I've decided to start a new segment on this blog.  It will be called "Mandy's Monthly" and it will include my monthly goals and my progress with each achievement.   I already have a few drafts in the works now and they will be posted very soon. 

This new segment will be a great addition to this site.  And also an ideal way for me to stay motivated and keep focused on my personal goals.  It's where my head and my heart lies at the moment, so I'm going with it.  Maybe it will lead me to write more frequently and passionately.  I relish in knowing that I'm moving past my sense of humor to attempt something more meaningful.  I'm sure they'll be some laughs along the way though.

But back to my one year status....  It really is amazing when you think about it, that I have committed to doing something for a whole year like blogging.  How many other things can you say that about, well, besides eating and taking breaths? 

A Unique Giveaway For You!

I wish I had something fun or cool to giveaway in honor of my one year blog anniversary.  But I don't have any spare change these days.  And let's face it, giveaways aren't really my style either.  I almost never enter them, even on my friends' sites.

Still, I'd like to offer you something.  You are worth it, after all.  How about a real-life conversation with me?  How about a chance to hear my southern accent and hear Viva the Diva count up to thirteen?  She does it very well, by the way. 

If that is something you'd be interested in -- a phone call from me, and I promise to make you laugh at some point during our conversation too, then please leave a comment telling me that you'd like for me to call you.  And I will.  Or you can call me, if you'd prefer me not to have your phone number. 

Come'on!  Let's take our virtual relationship to the next level.  Can you handle it?  :-) 

Or if you're not a phone talker....  Truthfully, I'm not much of one either but I'm making an exception here.... Then perhaps I can write a poem for you, or one for a friend or spouse of yours.   We can come up with something.  Tell me what you'd want, within reason, and I'll try to offer it to you.  Leave your suggestion in the comments section.

Oh, and this goes for all my faithful readers, friends and followers.  You know who you are.....  This is open to EACH of you, NOT just one.  Because I think the more, the merrier!  Let's have a party!  You're all invited.  Let's chat live, like a couple of old friends over beers and cocktails would.  Post a comment and email me at littlebit.mandy@gmail.com with your telephone number or your interest in calling me. 

Seriously, I want to thank you for being with me on this journey.  Thank you for your comments and for your words of encouragement.  I love my blog and its readers.  I'd still be wrting even if no one commented.  But the comments do add something special to the site.  

Surprisingly, I'm very happy with the number of followers I have.  In fact-- Shhh, don't tell your friends about me!  I like being able to keep up with the people on here and not get lost in numbers, visitors or who I'm networked with.  I like our intimate conversations.  I like not having to apologize for whenever I don't post.  I like writing and sharing things with you.  And even if you decide to go away someday OR if your life gets busy and you don't comment or read that often in the future....Well.... I would understand.....  In fact, I already do, since that is how my life has been lately too.   You don't have to apologize to me either.  I won't feel sorry for living my life.  But for now, please know that you being here is special and my blog is even more meaningful because you are a part of it.

So thanks!  And Happy Anniversary, Bloggy-Style, To Me!  Here's to another great year to come~