In January, I met the gentleman/owner/founder of the Conscious Planet at a sports syposium I attended. Listening to him talk was fascinating and it questioned everything I believed in regards to health and fitness at that time. I could have listened to him talk all day, but as it was, we only had about an hour. The basic message behind his talk was that he had a cure for cancer (or at least most) and all the studies were there, but the government was "hiding" the info as healthy people don't make the government money.
(does make sense)
Basically his talk was about the body's PH levels and how certain foods (whether acidic or alkaline) can change the body's overall PH levels, and once it gets to a certain acidic point, that's when health starts to deteriorate. Continue on that path, and cancer cells will eventually form. So how do you cure cancer? Keep your body in the proper PH level (on the more alkaline side) and avoid the acidic foods.
I admit, I didn't really understand what he was saying at the time, but it really, really intruiged me! And considering how young he and his wife looked- they're obviously doing something right!!!
A few months later, when I started working at GNC, I was able to go and do some online learning courses that one of our suppliers has available. It was there, when it was talking about it again, that I really, actually understood what Charles had been saying the few months prior.
I'd always considered myself a healthy person. I eat well most of the time- limit processed foods, NO fast food, deep fried, high in saturated foods, no white flour/sugar products. Any dairy, which is minimal, is low fat. I exercise on a regular basis with both strength training and cardiovascular exercise.
So in regards to what Charles was saying, I felt I was doing pretty good as the bad, acidic foods that lower your body's PH are foods that are processed, deep fried, and generally what we know are bad for us!
But this morning, my beliefs were questioned again. Friday I applied for a job at a local "cafe" at a raw food/juice bar in a martial arts facility. I had heard about "raw food diets" and have been curious about them, but really know nothing about them. Figured they were similar to vegan... close, but, really, more extreme! ONLY raw fruits and veggies. And seeds and nuts. Some dried fruits. But nothing heated over a certain temperature- so pretty much meat is out unless it's sashimi, but if it's "dead" (as in the fish) then it's off the menu. Of course, that's the extreme ones.
But in one Q&A article that I read, that's where everything I thought I knew was questioned. What was questioned to these people who wrote a book on raw diets was "what about protein?"... fair question! If you're only eating fruits and veggies... what about protein? And their response made me stop and go "Hmmm....." and really think! Really, REALLY think! Look at cows. What do they eat? Grass? Alfalfa? Wheat? And yet look at their size and composition. Mostly meat (muscle), right? And, as they said, it's not the PROTEIN that is required to build lean tissue, but the amino acids- which are found in fruits and veggies.
Well... right... so I'm consuming large amounts of protein powder and meat because......?
Now I know that going on a raw food diet would be impossible for us. We like our meat. We like certain veggies that need to be cooked. Not to mention bread... however, we can certainly adopt some of the principles- and it does fall under keeping the PH levels more correct.
But today I also decided to put my health into question again. About a month ago at work, we sold a man some multi vitamins. Later that day (or the next) he called and I spoke with him. He was questioning the ingredient listing as there was "also contains" with a bunch of things that didn't sound appealing at all! He wanted me to find out the safetiness of them (yeah, like there's anything I can do about it!) As it is, they were all binders, fillers, and emulsifiers. Safe. Harmless. So I called him back, but he continued to challenge me, so my response was "Well, if it wasn't safe, it wouldn't be on our shelves"... which he promptly challenged me on again!!! (he was a chemist and obviously too smart for his own good!) His response was "Safe or not, is it NECESSARY?" ... (well, gee, like there's anything I can do about it?)... So I decided to look at the multi's I'm currently taking, made a list of the "also contains" and looked them up. (there were 9 items, though one was a coloring) I'm not going to list them out or get into the nitty-gritty. They are fillers, emulsifiers, adhesives, thickener.... HOWEVER, out of the 8, there was only 1 I would considered consuming with a clear conscious. The rest are also used in glass, concrete, production of tires, adhesives, in glues, ceramic glazings... to list a few uses of these various additives. Are they necessary? Well, I know I looked at another popular multi at work and it didn't contain ANY additional ingredients! So, I'd have to say no!
So once again... I'm healthy, right?
I have been getting so conscious as to what I put in my body- and even ON my body! I've been treating my body better. And yet, here I think I'm being healthy, taking a multi vitamin, and yet it contains all these other things that I don't think I want to be putting in my body!
So... my advice: Just because it comes from a health food store, doesn't mean it's healthy! Look at the ingredient listing on everything- it's amazing what gets put into products even if the finished product is supposed to be "healthy" (SEVERAL protein bars at work contain "high fructose corn syrup"... VERY bad!)
- Mood:
contemplative
We're so lucky living where we do! Took 130+ photos in the 25 minutes I was watching him... from the comfort of our spare bedroom!
VERY cool!!!
- Mood:
enthralled
It's been a little difficult over the last few days. One of my friends on FB just competed in a figure competition- not only did she place first in her category, but first overall, earning her pro card. Part of me is extremely jealous of her... of doing it and achieving it (though I still have to question how she's "supplimenting" her body... ) and I feel the pang of wanting to compete myself in November... but I had decided NOT to... so I just have to stand firm! With the amount of money I would need to invest into competing, I could get certified as a yoga instructor!
And I contacted them in Nanaimo... I'm very excited. Though there's an instructor course in October, I figured I'd wait until January. I can take Part 1 in January, Part 2 in March, and Part 3 in April... so I could be certified as a Yoga Fitness Instructor by this time next year!!! Obviously, there's all sorts of other courses I can take, but this would give me the basics I need! (and all for the cost of competing- and I'd probably be saving money and it would be a HELL of a lot more rewarding!!!)
Mac's getting SUPER excited about the Tai Chi- we still have 2 months, but he's really chomping at the bit to start!!! He's even expressed an interest in teaching! It's really cool- it's been a long time since I've seen him this excited about something! Even I am looking forward to it!
It was also the one year anniversary of Mac's Gramma dying... sad...
I started working on the outfit I'm going to wear to the toga party in August. The whole idea of the party is getting a fabric for the toga in something that reflects your personality. Mac's dad is going to get some material in Hawaiian print. Very appropriate of him since when he's not working, I believe all his casual shirts are Hawaiian print! Mac decided to get a fabric in a pin-strip and he's going to put the laurel wreath on his fadora and wear his spats over sandles. Very cute! However, I was having problems with mine. Originally I was thinking leopard or tiger print. Cant find a print I like in a material I want... so then it was just the matter of looking. This morning while looking up toga tying instructions, I found pictures (within a toga party album) of what looked like a saree... as soon as I saw that, I knew that's what I wanted to do! So off to the fabric store! I found a beautiful silk material- an irridescent fabric- gold on one side, and raspberry pink on the other. And then I picked up some under-stated brocade in a gold color with the same raspberry pink that I'm going to make a choli for under the sash part. I started making the choli and I'm hand beading the brocade.
I guess my whole thing with wearing this to the toga party is that it's supposed to reflect my personality. I really don't care for togas, but I love sarees. I've always been amazed of the intricate designs and amount of workmanship that goes into the beading and embroidery. I can't afford a proper saree, but this will look close enough. I've always hated going with everyone else, so this will make me stand out with my individuality. I want the richness of the fabric on the outside be a contrast to the soft elegance on the inside. I want it to be soft and feminine, but a commanding presence. The beading is to reflect my intensity- attention to detail and willingness to go above and beyond. At first glance it'll be pretty, but it'll take 2-3 times to see the depth.
Kinda corny... but there was a method to my madness! Not to mention, I have all the jewelry and everything!
Um... what else is there?
I sent my girlfriend an email advising her I couldn't perform at her fund raiser. I am just feeling too rusty and out of practise to commit to something a month away when I still have everything from costume to choreography to figure out! I don't want or need any of that stress!
Anyhow, I guess that's a good update!
CIAO!
- Mood:
tired
(of course the extra hormones in my system again are NOT helping!!!)
However, I'm going to re-adjust my workouts. I'm going to train with weights in the HIIT fashion 3 times a week and have a 3 day split. I've written up my workouts and they'll be good! Intense, but good! I'm GOING to start them tomorrow!!!! So do that Mon, Wed, Fri and then on the Tues, Thurs mornings, do both yoga and get some Bellydance technique- not to mention I still have a choreography I need to work on!!! At least I've narrowed down the music! That's always the hard part!
I want to start incorporating other methods of exercise- especially if I'm wanting to do more dance teaching and/or start taking the yoga teachers courses in January... I need to at least have a grasp of what I'm doing!!!
And I also need to get a better grasp on my diet. I've been sloppy ever since Angel was here. I'm not using her as an excuse as it's my choice, however, it's the time frame I can identify with! So the combination of lack of exercise and diet is making me sluggish and blah!
Like I said, this has got to come to an end! NOW!!!
Still working out in the back yard. That's some good exercise! But I want that to be extra. I don't want it as an excuse not to get my proper workouts in! Same with riding my bike to and from work! Of course, with the HIIT program, there's minimal cardio before and after as the entire workout's practically cardio!!!
I just need to get focused again! Now that I've decided not to compete... all focus is gone! I need to refocus my energy to what really matters instead of going away because the competition's gone! Stupid, really!
Oh, well... I believe it's under control now!!! CIAO!
- Mood:
irritated
So onward we went.
We did stop a couple times for food and drinks, but for the most part were going from 11am-5pm or so. 3 trips to the dump. And still more to go. But there's still more work for me to do, so figured we'd stop when we did as it was hot and we were all tired and thirsty (and Chik was bored from the second she stepped into the house so she was eager to go)
But there's plans we have. Going to continue cleaning out the "flower boxes" that line the yard. Will probably put down some cloth and bark mulch for cleanliness, then get big pots for planters. The box that lines the old run down shed I want to plant with a wild flower mix. The one side that has all the trees is the side I still have to weed- that'll just get the cloth and mulch.
Shan weed-eated one area that was all over grown, but I didn't realize it actually had a garden box for (I'm assuming) veggies and it gets a lot of sun, so that's where I'll plant the garden. The place where I was going to is all shade. Will have to find something to go there. The forest of blackberry bushes is still there, but that's fine with me. They're bearing fruit, but still green, so I'd at least like ONE harvest before they get ripped out!!! Not too much longer, I think!
But it's exciting! I'm REALLY looking forward to a garden!
Anyhow, dinner time!
Happy Canada Day!
July 01 2009. Another month sitting before us with the hope of summer, bbq's, and sunshine.
So what's your hopes for July? Trying a new sport? Do more kayaking? Hiking? Camping? Fishing? What's your GOAL for the summer?
Mine is to find balance. Rediscover who I am. Remember the past, look at the present, and dream of the future.
Looking into the past, I realize how far away from who I was, what was important to me, and how far away from my dreams I have moved. Life is about growing, evolving, changing. But some things will be with you forever.
What was important to you when you were young? I think back to when I was 15 years old. I never wanted kids, but adopt- why bring another life into a world that's so overpopulated to begin with and where theres so many children without a family? I wanted to be an artist for Disney. I wanted to be a photographer for National Geographic and travel to 3rd world countries and bring human strife to the modern world. I was concerned about the environment and clear cutting and pollution. Animal abuse infuriated with me.
I remember my dad commenting once about how "hard" I've become. I was SO sensitive when I was younger. Growing up will make you harder, but it doesn't need to make you bitter...
Looking at my present (and my recent self-evaluation) I realize I am contributing to the problems I was concerned about in my youth and why I have started making the changes I need to to find balance in my life. I'm riding my bike to cut down on pollution. I'm wanting to start a compost to cut down on waste thrown out. I'm trying to take photos on a weekly basis. And I'm having an urge to pick up a pencil and paper again.
My goal this month (and for my LIFE) is balance...
what's yours?
- Mood: contemplative
Today I colored my hair. Nothing shocking there; but it was the color. When my husband walked through the door, his initial reaction when he saw me was a little disappointing, but not surprising. I've been coloring my hair for almost as long as I haven't- which would be most of our 16 1/2 years together. And of that time, I've spent a good 90% of it as a red head.
And now I'm back at my roots.
There is absolutely no denying I've loved being a red head. It suited me and my personality. But over the months, a change has taken place and last weekend I realized I didn't want- and more importantly NEED- the attention being that color got me. I got to be known as "the red head". It was my trade mark. When people first see and meet me, it's the red hair they notice and remember...
... but at least I'm remembered...
I truely believe that I needed to create something on the outside that people take notice of. Remember me by. As though nothing else about me is worth remembering. My red hair was my security blanket. I believe I was afraid that I would become unremarkable without it and therefor become unnoticed.
I now realize how untrue all of it is. How I don't NEED people to notice me. And even want! I want people to remember me by my aura and actions rather than my red hair.
So I decided to shed it. I stripped the red out of my hair as best I could and colored it as close to my natural color as possible. Though I'm certain I will eventually miss the red hair, I feel more connected to the person looking back at me in the mirror...
- Mood:
content
The equivalent of external silence is inner stillness.
Whenever there is some silence around you~ listen to it.
That means just notice it. Pay attention to it.
Listening to the silence awakens the dimension of stillness within yourself,
because it is only through stillness that you can be aware of silence.
See that the moment of noticing the silence around you, you are not thinking.
You are aware, but not thinking."
It is now mid week after my ladies weekend getaway. Though there was some trepidation leading up to the weekend (mostly not knowing what to expect; timing, itinerary, and lack of information ahead of time) I came out of it a changed person. In the silence of the outside, I found the silence on the inside. Once free from the constant bombardment of preceived needs and wants; colorful packaging, tantalizing smells, pretty patterns on skinny mannequines. Away from technowledgy; away from all phones, no cell phone coverage, no computer, no tv... I finally found myself.
The silence at first was deaffening. I felt anxious and nervous. I felt like I should be doing something; not sitting around doing nothing! But then I realized sitting and doing nothing was doing something... and that's when the change happened.
I became aware of everything... both inside and out. I found true peace and harmony inside myself. I let the silence envelope my being; the sound of the ocean waves the harmony of breath; the gentle sway of the docks the pulse of life.
It was in that moment I realized I had been turning my back on my true self. My true desires in life.
As sad as it is, I find peace in knowing the truth.
The past couple of months I had been focused on the upcoming competition. As thrilled as I was competing again, something didn't feel right... I don't know how to explain it. I know that I want to have a life and career in the fitness industry, but up until this weekend, I didn't realize how far away competing is taking me. So I've decided I won't be competing. I know I CAN, and I believe that alone will give me the satisfaction of stepping on stage. And I'll continue training as hard as I have been. But I want to ENJOY life! I want to practise what I preach- balance with ones self, diet, and life. I want to be able to sit down with a glass of wine, dessert... whatever! If I don't feel like working out, I don't want to feel obligated. I want to look at additional/alternative means of staying healthy...
(hence buying the bike and getting rid of the car)
... I want to become more active in my bellydance. I want to start my yoga instructor training in 2010. And I want the plans with my husband of buying me a motorcycle and touring.
I want to do things that bring me joy. Bring me peace and harmony like at the lodge.
At one point at the lodge, I remember sitting at the end of the dock looking out across the bay, watching the clowds change color as the sun set. It was so calm and peaceful, I wished I was sitting there with an easel, paintbrush, and watercolors. I haven't painted in YEARS (like 12-15) but it inspired me so much I wanted the expess it through me (but I had to settle with through the lens)
I wish I could explain better the profound change that happened to me this past weekend. All I can say is find your inner peace and find yourself!
- Mood: contemplative
It's BEAUTIFUL here. I can't discribe how insanely beautiful it is. So peaceful and serene. So far I've seen a martin, a family of sea otters, some bald eagles, a hawk, a seal, and a mouse. I've taken 200+ photos. I've taught 1 fitness class, have bellydance tonight and a bootcamp in the morning. I've gone crabbing and fishing, to a white marble quarry (have a souvenier) and used a paddle boat around the bay. It's currently sunny, but rainy and the ladies are chatting while we're getting ready for dinner.
The only way it could be any more perfect was if Mac was with me.
I love it here. I can't believe it's taken me 20 years to visit this pristine coast line!
I want to come back!
- Mood: peaceful
A few weeks ago I cancelled cable.
This morning I cancelled our (land) telephone line.
These 3 changes alone should save us about $350-400/month! Working part time doesn't seem so bad now that those expenses aren't there! ...or won't be there!
(now if only I can figure out a way not to eat, then life would be good! :D )
It's amazing how much people don't want to let go of a service! What a pain to cancel phone! Trying to convince me we needed it- well, shit! It's just a direct line for telemarketers! How stupid is that? 90% of ALL phone calls we get on our land line are calls we don't even answer!!! Yeah, let me think about that! ....CANCEL!!!!!! And even then, the calls we do get that we actually speak to a person, it's usually family and it's usually a "what are you doing?" and arranging a day/time for a visit!!! Most everything else is said/done througth internet! Most people probably won't even notice our phone has been discontinued!
Anyhow....
So I've had a bit more contact about this weekend and one of my classes doesn't appear will happen. There's not too many women signed up, so I don't know what'll happen. Seems that the dance will still happen- great- the one that I haven't done in YEARS and I'm doing! LOL! Yeah, not planned at all!!! Hahaha... we'll see!
- Mood: optimistic
I also went and spent my parents gift certificate I got for my birthday- Canadian Tire as they had a bicycle I wanted. Ended up not getting that one, as I decided I wanted to start riding my bike to work- decided to get something that'll be more functional. My insurance on my car comes up for renewal next month and if I just let it expire, we'd be saving about $200/month on gas and insurance! We've been discussing downsizing to one vehicle (again) so I figured this would be a good way to see IF we can! Summer will be easier- it'll be fall and winter that'll cause problems! We'll have to see!
I rode into town in the afternoon (it rained- lucky me!) and it took about 25 minutes there and back. Pretty good!
But with Angel gone, my habits *grudgingly* are starting to get back to normal. While she was here, my diet was richer, carb loaded, and a hell of a lot more alcohol. Less protein. Less working out. Not as good. I'm not using her has a scape goat- I could have easily worked out and limited my food- I just didn't want to! I know- bad me! I figured that my physique was progressing too quickly, so the 5 days (or so) of poor diet wouldn't hurt.
However, my gawd, did my body rebel!!! I can always tell how my diet is doing when it comes to my ring. It's usually on, but loose. A couple days, I couldn't get it off! I was so bloated, my fingers were swollen and my ring was stuck! I didn't like it!
However, with today and working out, diet back on- my ring is already loose again. It's amazing how quickly it bounces back!
I was counting on riding my bike to work tomorrow, but the sign place already got the change of phone number re-done for the car. SHIT! They were too fast! So I take the car in for 2pm and I work at 3pm. I'm STILL not ready for the weekend retreat coming up- I'm trying not to freak about that! I'm *hopefully* going to have a quiet evening so I can work out the various routines for the 2 classes... shouldn't be that difficult!
*crosses fingers*
But I AM looking forward to the retreat! It's a beautiful location and I should be able to get lots of good pictures!
Anyhow... I guess that's it for now! CIAO!!!
- Mood:
okay
The weather outside reflect my heart. Grey cold and wet. When you left- when we walked away- my sunshine stayed behind. The previous days had been so perfect. And now I feel so empty. Holding each other as we cried. Waiting for you. Watching from through the glass. Wanting to reach through the glass and wipe away your tears. Needing all my strength not to try and run through security to give you one last hug and tell you I love you... but using it to turn my back and walk away. Trying to be strong for you, but not wanting you to see my tears.
I miss you. More than words can say, I miss you. I miss the smell of your hair. The smallness of your hands in mine. How your smile lights up a room. Your smile makes me smile. Your laugh makes me laugh. Your tears make me sad.
I know they say it's not "goodbye" but "until we meet again"...
Nothing hurt more than walking away. Knowing there was a consoling arm around my shoulders but not feeling it. Only feeling the emptiness inside me. The hole in my heart. Knowing that he feels the same. My last image is your hands pressed against the glass; tears running down your cheeks.
We love you, our Angel....
- Mood: melancholy
It was purely accidental I found out. Angel commented on FB and I picked up on it. I pressured Mac about the meaning behind it. I was fairly insistant that she was visiting. I just knew. I don't know how, I just did. Granted, had she not said anything, I would not have known... but I now know.
I'm thankful I found out only 1 1/2 days before she arrives. Less time to get excited and time to clean up. Not that I'm not SUPER excited! Words can't discribe how utterly ecstatic I am, but I still have SO much to do! Plus I work, so even less time to do it in! I'll probably be very thankful I'm working, though I'll certainly be distracted!
It's been 2 years since I last saw Angel- my last birthday in Calgary. I'm really looking forward to the visit. I'm sure it'll be so completely, totally different than any other visit. No big city. No shopping. No clubs. It'll be about relaxing, beaches, farmers markets. Indoor rock climbing, and kayaking. Weather's been beautiful, and it sounds like this weekend, though not as hot, more comfortable. 4/5 days... I can't wait!
I'm still looking around here thinking of everything I still need to do. It's not TOO bad... but I'm feeling a little lost. Like I'm moving piles of stuff around trying to pass the time, but not accomplishing anything.
I can't wait to get in the studio and get some better pictures of us together. Last time I felt so... fat.
Hahaha.... I forgot about this! LOL!...
I'm sure we'll have our moments...
Now the important question.... what am I going to wear to the airport???
LOL....
...gotta get ready for work! CIAO!!!
(30 1/2 hours and counting!!!)
And then there were the guys. Not ALL guys, but mostly. And the only reason I say not all guys is because I had some woman hitting on me this morning! But the guys- about 80% of them- hit on me one way or another. I won't get into it as I'm too exhausted, but the message from one guy this morning "you're a firey red head who needs a spanking" was the one that made me say FUCK YOU and cancel my membership!
I've NEVER had so many problems with a site! Every now and then I get idiots on FB, but very few! And NEVER on here! But, my gawd! There was horrible! I had a profile a couple years ago and cancelled it- now I remember why!
Stupid boys!
So, I'll probably be posting on here more... I'm sure this'll be the first of many!
But right now I'm too exhausted to be pissed off (any more, that is!) I REALLY hope I get some sleep tonight!!!
- Mood: exhausted
MOVE FOR HEALTH DAY, HERE I COME!!!
Had a bit of a shock gtting to the facility yesterday to discover wires were crossed and the one room was booked wrong and we didn’t have it!!! WHAT??!?! However, we had access to 2 other rooms- another gym and the "nursery". We decided Tai Chi and Yoga should be the smaller, more cozy room…
So we went through all the gifts that had been donated- they were nice! But at the end, I decided I would rather take them home and package them myself… *dumbass*… however, got home, layed out the gifts, chased the cats away, and opened a bottle of wine and put on a movie!
Now THAT’S the way to do it!
After my husband got home, I had him look at the brochure and he made one minor adjustment, then I took off again- also because I had run out of the clear "basket" wrap! *grr*… got copies, a few other things I needed, then home.
It was a busy evening. I don’t think I got DONE until about 9pm… but shortly after 9, I took the rest of my sleeping pills- I had them cut in half as I usually only need that- and I took 3 halves… the last of them. HOWEVER! I slept like a log and, granted, up early, had a SOLID 8 hours sleep!
Now… whatever happens, happens!
…. I think I should start packing the car…
MOVE FOR HEALTH DAY, EVERYONE! GO BC!!!
*inhale*.....*exhale*...
- Mood: worried
So.... the difference between bodybuilding and figure??? Guess who's who??? Granted, these are top competitors.... but COMMON!!! If I can't win unless I take roids, I won't compete in bodybuilding!!!
Figure=muscular, but still feminine
Wow... has it been a week since I last posted? Wow... amazing how little I have to talk about when I'm not complaining about work! LOL!
But I'm still enjoying my job. There's good days and bad days as we get paid wage plus commission. Monday I think I made an EXTRA $11/hour from commissions!!! But... Tuesday I think it was $0.75/hour extra... yeah! BOO!!! I've been learning how to close. My boss showed me on Monday, then Tuesday and Wednesday I did it with someone with me. Tonight I work the late shift by myself. It's not rocket science and it seems odd that people seem to have SO much trouble with things! I see my boss again today, so we'll see what she has to say. I think she thinks I'm the best thing since sliced bread!!!
Don't really care about working the evening shift... but it's supposed to be when the good commissions are, so we'll see!
But the BigWigs might be in today. Don't know where they're coming from. Vancouver most likely. That'll be interesting as I've aparently caught their attention!
My foot seems to be getting better. Monday it REALLY started hurting. So bad I thought it might be broken!!! But I noticed a plantar wart on the underside of where it was hurting, so the last 3 days I've had a medicated pad and duct tape on it. I also bought new shoes and it seems to be helping. Still hurts, but no limping, so that's good!
My training has been kicked up in intensity. I've been noticed at work as it appears most GNC employees don't work out. I guess an employee is an employee... but if I'm trying to get in shape, I'd want to take suppliment advice from someone who's in shape- just as hiring a personal trainer! Have to look the part! But I've also decided to compete again. Mac had suggested it a few weeks ago- maybe a month ago. Give me a goal. Something tangible. I thought I'd have to wait until 2010 as most of the competitions are in June/July (or March/April, so WAY late!) but I found one in November. I'm going to do Figure, though- not Bodybuilding. Still need to gain some muscle, but I won't have to lean out so bad! I'm actually very excited, so we'll see how things go! Here's a photo Mac took last week:
We'll probably do more photos not this weekend, but the following weekend. My workouts have been SUPER intense, so I'm very excited!!! I just really need to add some mass to my shoulders! I just have very long shoulder muscles, so they're hard to add mass! Mac knows all about that as ALL his muscles are long! But I think he's been doing pretty good- I can see him adding muscle. He's been slacking a bit this week because of my schedule, but he's had a rough few days, so I hate hounding him.
Anyhow, I have to be at work shortly, so I should go!
CIAO!!!
- Mood: chipper
I am SO glad I left! From what I understand, things are HELL and I feel so bad for the other FSA who was left there- I don't even know if they hired anyone else yet! But it's SO nice that I know now that I did the right thing! It sounds like everything is falling apart... so at least I'm no longer there!
Sunday I worked with the manager- which is always nice. Since she's on salary, she lets whoever's working with her take the sales so I got all the commissions that shift! But she is SO glad to have me!! She said I'm the best thing that's happened to that store in a LONG time. I guess the other girls love working with me and she feels so lucky to have me! She had 5 days off for holidays and didn't get a single phonecall from us and after reviewing the paperwork, there were NO errors!
It's nice to feel appreciated! It's been so long! Yeah, the pay is crap, but it's retail- what do I expect (plus on Sunday I doubled my hourly wage because of commissions, so come on!) but I actually LIKE going to work now! I've been there a week and I already feel like the other girls are more of my friends than anyone at the bank after being there for 1 1/2 years!!! We're already talking about going out for a girls night!
It's nice having a job I like!
- Mood: cheerful
So the rest of the afternoon my bro and I hung out- he showed me a bunch of you tube videos he likes, various cartoons, and got me addicted to a new game. My mom made dinner (scallopped potatoes- one of my faves, but the last time I made it, it SUCKED!!!) Shortly after Grace got off we ate and it was SO yummy!!!
That evening the 4 of us went to Watchman, but it was a reminder as to why we don't go to movies in the theatre. Firstly there were technical difficulties. We decided to wait, but a good portion of the other people left (which, really, was nice!) and it started about 45 minutes late. The other thing... considering the rating was 18A, there was a HUGE number of under-18's... and I can understand the virtually R rating. It was VERY graffic and there was a shockingly large amount of nudity and sex- more than usual. It made me blush and I am NOT a prude! But it was irritating all the giggling and tee-heeing.... I wanted to tell everyone to shut up! AND the couple girls (probably only about 16 and there with their boyfriends) who obviously had NO interest in the movie were texting on their cels the whole thing! I felt like reaching over (as they were in the row in front of us) and grabbing their phones and telling them they'll get them at the end of the movie.
I HATE public theatres!!! I think next time I'll just stay at home and visit with my mom.
I slept pretty well that night (dispite Mac sleep talking- new trick for him!) and woke up to one hell of a storm!!! Mom and I went out after breakfast to Walmart. Didn't have what I wanted, but had some other stuff- and I could use my mall gift certificate. Due to the weather, Mac and I decided to leave early. G&G were supposed to come over as my bro had the day off again (unusual for him) but because of the weather decided not to- thank goodness we had decided to take the truck!!! BUT... we decided to stop off at Best Buy. Yeah..... Mac decided to get his Macbook.... $2500 lighter, we had to stick around for the tech guys to do their thing. We eventually ended up back at my parents for an hour, but that meant a free lunch! But shortly after, we were on our way and dispite the CRAPPY weather, were home in good time. As usual, the crap weather stopped about Parksville and by the time we got home.
When we got home, there were 2 messages. I expected it to be a call from Best Buy about the computer being ready- we provided the home number on the work order, but gave them a business card for Mac's cel number. But as it turned out, it was Julie from GNC offering me the job! Both messages were from her! So I immediately called and accepted. She said I could start on Monday or the following Sunday as those were the only days she was working as she was taking some holiday-days. I opted for the Monday. Why wait???
Needless to say, I was VERY excited and happy. Mac had the wine opened and handing me a glass before I was even off the phone!
Weather turned real bad in the evening. Slept pretty well, though had to get up and shut the window at one point. Awoke well rested and ready to go! Even worked out this morning!!! I only did an hour because, dispite the amount of clothes in my wardrobe, I didn't have black pants and a white dress top!!! I think I always thought it made me look too waitress-y. So I went to Walmart on my way to work.
I ended spending $60 I think... one pair of pants, a cream tank (really pretty with applique at the chest, but it gave me a rash, so I'll just remove it) a white cardigan sweater, and a white blazer, so I have at least a couple things to wear! I can pick up more later... Ricki's is RIGHT across the hall!
But my first day at work was AWESOME! I have to admit, I really liked it! In reality, I was MADE for this job!!! Because of my past experience, I caught onto the computer system quick and using the POS machine was a snap. My customer experience was exceptional and I didn't have a problem remembering things. I could talk to the customers about the various things and the sports nutrition was a cinch and had no problem switching to the "sell our product first" mentality. I think my boss figures I was a god-send! I was supposed to be working the Monday and Sunday, but I'm now ALSO working Tues, Fri, and Sat. Partially because she's going to fire the one guy. Originally she said she couldn't because she needed him to work the Friday & Saturday shifts, but I told her I could work them. And as it turned out? He didn't even show up for his shift today!!!!?!!!
The worst part of the job? I don't remember the last time I had to stand for work! Well, I do... it's been about 3 1/2 years!!! Going to take some time for my body to get used to and some trial-and error finding good shoes! That and eating. She doesn't mind discretion when eating on the floor, but by the time it was 2, it occurred to me to go for lunch! Time just flew! And it was a slow day! At the end of my shift, she pulled the record to look at my sales and show me my commissions, and it's pretty good!! Though I only get paid $8/hour, because of my commissions, I got $12/hour! On a SLOW day!! Still not the best pay, but better than making nothing! And the potential with promoting myself is HUGE!
Anyhow, I guess I should go! Kicking back with a Cosmo, watching a movie and watching Mac ooh and ahh over his new laptop!
CIAO!
- Mood: ecstatic
I figured since sleeplessness has struck me once again, I would actually post my life's events over the past week as that's been about how long it's been since I last posted!
Last Thursday I was supposed to have met with the CV Rec Centre Rep, but she called and postponed. DANG! No biggie. Mac's been sick a lot, so we bundled up and lounged in front of the TV.
The Friday I managed to find a "date" for the Jonny Lang tickets we managed to snag. I went with my sister-in-law's husband. She was at a rehersal that evening and he was actually home- a little unusual for him. So I hopped on the ferry and it took 1 1/2 HOURS to get from the terminal to downtown!!! I know it's rush hour, but COMMON!!!! As soon as I picked J up, I had him drive. The ironic thing about the whole event was he's the booking agent for the casino the concert was at and he booked Jonny Lang to perform!!! So... I took someone who could have gotten in for free to begin with, but also had all the connections to get me back stage and meet him!
The next morning I was up and out of the house at 530am... not happy as I got to bed after midnight and I woke up to snow! Just a little... slushy. No biggie! But they lived quite a ways away from the ferry and the ferry I had to catch was 7am! YUK! My friends dress rehersal was at 1130 and the ferry one later would be cutting it too close. As Shannon wasn't with me, I needed to be organized for it. Dress rehersal was fine EXCEPT I discovered I left the flash card in the computer at home!!!! NNNNNNNNOOOOOOOOOOOOOOooooooooo
But that night we hung out, she made dinner, and we drank a bottle of wine and we watched bellydance performances before going to bed... GAWD how I miss dance!!! *slept like crap*
The next morning we were at the hall about noonish helping out where we needed I hung out as I wasn't too comfortable leaving my equipment there unattended. No biggie. Was pretty tired, so just zoned out! Shortly after 3 the makeup artists showed up and started, so I did as well with photographing everything.
About 6ish the "professional photographer" showed up. Don't get me started, but it was NOT a good first impression. Actually, I was pretty pissed off and was ready to pack up and leave. Oh, well. Didn't. Chilled out. And enjoyed myself. After it was over, I socialized, snapped more pics and had a drink or two. Ended up taking 1200 photos that day!!!! Granted most were probably junk, but I KNEW I got some REALLY nice pics! Me, Shell, and the other two were the last ones. They were drinking, but I was SO tired, I might as well have been drunk! I was on stage, dancing- apparently there's some great pics of me dancing to "you can leave your hat on" wearing a stuffed, primary colored felt "viking" hat from the comic act! Hopefully will get them one of these days! After, we went to the organizers place for more drinks.... or Shell to drink more. I played with the dog (a rotti, border collie cross and VERY sweet!) we didn't get home until about 130.
Went to bed... slept a bit better. Woke to snow. Not only snow on the ground, but snow falling! This was about 830am, so I figured I should hit the road before it got worse- who knows what the Malahat is like! It was crappy (counted 6 cars in the ditch or in accidents) but as long as you took your time, didn't go too fast, make sudden movements, or travel too close to the person in front of you, you were fine! Made it over without a problem- dispite being very tense and having one hell of a hip-ache!
Passing through Duncan, I thought the worst was over. The roads were wet, but clear. No snow from what I could see. But once I approached Ladysmith, it went from bad to worse. Within about 3 car lengths, the highway was covered in packed snow and ice and it was blinding snowing/freezing rain. It came so sudden, I didn't have an opportunity to slow down and as it was on a corner, I knew I was toast. Too fast to make the corner, but can't slow down fast enough to an appropriate speed.
I lost it. I tried desperately to recover, and for a sec I thought I had succeeded.... but recovering on a straight stretch is one thing... on a corner? Completely unprepared and I lost out to a cement barrier. I got whipped around and ended up pointing in the wrong direction. After the cars passed (I guess I should be lucky I didn't hit anyone) I got pointed in the right direction and found the first parkinglot I could find. Conditions were too bad I didn't want to stop and assess the damage on the side of the highway! Unfortunately, the parkinglot I pulled into also made me stuck due to the amount of snow. I spoke with Mac and he drove down to get me- he took the car and I took the truck. Though in the 1 1/2 hours it took for him to get to me, I probably could have gotten out myself. Maybe. It was still nice to have the extra weight!
But when I got home, I understood why Mac didn't seem to believe me... BEAUTIFUL clear blue skies and dry! But I started the massive download of pics. Over 1400 in total!!! Wow! And that's when my weekend went from bad to worse! The card seperates the photos in files of 100 (1-100 will be the image number, so I may have deleted pictures 2-99, but those 2 pics will still have their own photos) So I should have about 12 files. I only got 4 before it "broke"... camera won't read it. Computer won't read it! NOT happy! I won't get into it, but I still haven't given up and accept losing them!
(All I will say is if a recovery program is FREE, it should be free!!! Not free to download, then have to pay to USE it!!! WTF???)
Tuesday I had the meeting with the CV Rec gal and things are a-go! YEAH! We're getting Active CV involved as well, so we'll all be partnering with it. We have another meeting with the 3 of us next week. I'm very excited! After that meeting I took the car in to the autobody (I did the dial-a-claim the Tuesday) and he figured it would be $1500-2000 to fix.... thank gawd for insurance!!!
Today I was supposed to be going to a hiring fair, but discovered it's for Campbell River, so I was SO frustrated! I REALLY need a job and there doesn't seem to be anything out there! So, once again, on the computer, looking at the adds and GUESS WHAT? I found my new job! I applied today at GNC which would be a PERFECT compliment to my personal training, PLUS she said I can promote myself and hand out my business cards to clients!!! Mac was blown away by that!!! But we were chatting and did an interview for 1 1/2 hours!!! SO long! But I think I impressed the pants off her! I'm trying not to get my hopes up, but even Mac has a good feeling about this one! He said his horoscope the other day was something like "In order to take a step forwards, you sometimes have to take a step back"...
*crosses fingers*...
but this weekend we're heading to Nanaimo for dinner with my family- my parents, brother and his wife. I think we're going to go see the new Watchman movie, but we'll see!
Anyhow, enough typing. Let me try sleep (again)
CIAO!
- Mood: optimistic
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