tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-15465806179764951682024-02-19T16:45:12.426-08:00TwinspirationTwinspirationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964050623275375530noreply@blogger.comBlogger32125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1546580617976495168.post-56430871648381895532017-01-27T23:06:00.002-08:002017-01-27T23:06:31.381-08:00You Are Not Alone - A short story<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin-bottom: .0001pt; margin-bottom: 0in;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">Hi fellow followers...to
the few that may be out there! It's been a while since I've written, but I am
back as well as my twin sister, so I hope you continue following and reading
about our lives! We hope to revamp soon to include a vlog and youtube channel,
but for now...I hope you will read :)</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.5pt;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">I wanted to write about something
that I haven't been able to speak about without being cryptic or ashamed. And
while the embarrassment is still there, the experience I have had with sharing
my story publicly and the impact that it can have on just one person has given
me some courage to share in moderation with those who may need to hear they are
not alone. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.5pt;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">There was a small fire
sparked within me last night that I never saw coming. I have been on a work
trip with a fellow co-worker, male co-worker to be exact. This man is fun, and
exciting and completely chill. The kind of person that you just want to be around
all of the time because of his outlook on life and the love that he has for
all. I am not relaxed around the opposite gender and would never use those
words in the same sentence, especially if I do not know them. I am generally
always on edge, and anticipating their next move. However, with this gentleman,
I was able to be myself and share things I never expected to share. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;"><b><span style="font-size: 24pt;"> T</span></b><span style="font-size: 13.5pt;">he drive to the airport Monday morning was full
of anxiety. To the point I was in tears the whole way there. Since I was traveling
when I received the news that my sister died, I haven't been able to go
anywhere without feeling like I am going to explode into a million pieces. The
added stress of meeting up with a fellow male co-worker, whom was much larger and older, and spending the time
alone in the same hotel was enough to make me vomit. We planned to meet at the
baggage claim as our flights arrived at the same time - or so that was the
plan. I board the first flight with expectations of turbulence because of the
wind, but was not expecting the drops and jolts this flight so kindly provided.
I was white knuckled the entire flight.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.5pt;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">My second flight arrived
to our destination but his was delayed by an hour. I still waited in
anticipation for him. I walked around the baggage claim, gathered my belongings
and went on the hunt for some coffee. With my luggage dragging behind me, I
made my way up the escalators and found Caribou Coffee, but opted for an
unsweetened green iced tea since the baileys and coffee I had on the plane
added to my nausea. I was pacing up and down the airport for what felt like an
eternity. My co-worker finally arrived and after a few exchanges via text, we
were face-to-face in the baggage area. I had met him before...just once...seven
months ago in a group of people so I didn't truly know him. He greeted me and
we walked outside to head to the hotel. I did not say much. My anxiety was at
an all-time high...my stomach was doing somersaults and I was for sure about to
vomit up the spiked coffee I had for free on the plane. We pick up a taxi outside
and his first gesture was to put my bags in the trunk for me. I stood there not
knowing what to say. I often travel alone, and more than ninety-nine percent of
the time I do not require help. However much of a nice gesture this was, in the
back of my mind I couldn't help but think there was an ulterior motive for his
kindness. And then the thirty-minute taxi ride began. He struck up conversation
almost immediately as if we had been friends our entire lives. The ride flew by
and in no time we were at the hotel. We checked in at the front desk, and what
do you know? We were on the same floor, about four rooms apart. All of the
laughter and ease I had inside of the taxi immediately faded...he knew where I
was sleeping. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.5pt;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">We head to the
elevators. I have my purse strapped over my shoulder, my backpack sitting on my
back and my luggage being towed in my hand, with such a tight grip that Mike
Tyson wouldn't have been able to pry it away. As we step into the elevator we
discuss meeting up in ten minutes to go grab a bite to eat. I push the button
for the 10th floor and my stomach feels like it's falling with the movement of
the elevator. My body felt heavy and I didn't know if I would make it to my
room. We walk down the hall and I purposefully take the long way so that we
reach his room first, I watch him walk in and close the door and I sprint to my
room, key in my free hand and lock the deadbolt and chain behind me. I gather
my emotions and remind myself that I am overreacting. It's okay. I close shades
on the windows, put my luggage on the ottoman at the foot of the bed and grab
my purse to head back downstairs. I wanted to make sure I was down there before
him since I didn't have my luggage and backpack to protect me. I step off of
the elevator on the first floor and walk into the lobby. I sit by the fireplace
waiting for my co-worker. He arrives and we decide to walk a few blocks to a
quaint little pub not seen on the east coast. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.5pt;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">As we walk, I can barely
breathe, the combination of the thin, cold air piercing the inside of my nose
and lungs and my unending anxiety was getting the better of me. He starts
talking in his cool, calm, collected way and it somehow eases me. I am able to
converse back. We step inside the door and it's a dimly-lit wooden pub that had
a perfect seat near the window with a great view of 16th Street and the
Pavilion. To my delight, all of the trees were lit up with white lights. The
walkway reminded me of being in Mexico City and the flood of happiness that
coursed through my body made me forget the anxiety I was letting myself get
into. I order a cocktail, he ordered his and we started talking. Long, in-depth
talks about work, life, and our partners. This was a turning point in the short
trip for me. To be in the company of a male that genuinely cared about just
listening and talking without any inferences to sex or joking about the
possibility of taking advantage of our alone situation took me by surprise. Any
time that I have traveled, there was always such a thick layer of uncomfortability
because one of my male counterparts would feel it was acceptable to comment on
my body or joke about work affairs, or how they could get a key to my room
without me knowing. We remained in constant conversation for about two and half
hours over cocktails and soup. We paid and began our journey back to the hotel.
As we stepped outside, the cold bit our noses and hands. An audible burr came
out of our mouths that made us both start laughing. We arrived at the hotel and
headed back to our rooms taking the same route we previously did. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.5pt;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">The next day we head to
the office to meet our new hire and spend about ten hours getting everything
set up and moving about the day. We decide to do some team building and invite
the team that resides there out to dinner. We chose this restaurant where they
serve authentic Mexican food and offer happy hour all night! We order tacos and
cocktails and have such great conversation. After dinner my co-worker and I
head back to the hotel and say goodnight. The next morning we run through the
same routine, we meet up in the lobby for breakfast and coffee, chat and eat
while reading the newspaper. As we head to the office in our Uber, we discuss
what we want to do for the night. By the time we arrive at the office, we have
poured over dozens of restaurants through Google. One of the native Coloradians
recommended this local place on 16th where those gorgeous lit trees are. We
decide that this is where we will go for the night. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.5pt;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">We stayed later than
usual at the office and were the last two people to leave. Others had prior
commitments so it was just myself and my fellow traveler heading to dinner. We
arrive at the restaurant and are seated near a stage. We order this incredible Chile
Verde and some cocktails and continue our conversation that hadn't stopped
since the first night. After our second drink he looks at the tattoo on my arm
and continues to stare. He then looked at me and asked me if it is okay if he
says something about it because he wanted to when he saw it the first night of
our trip. I was uneasy about saying yes because although I intentionally got
this tattoo as a reminder to myself of how strong I am, I hadn't really
rehearsed what I would say if someone asked me what it stands for. He said, my
girlfriend has the same tattoo but hers is on her shoulder...he was very polite
and told me that he didn't want to pry but he understood the reason behind it
and is open to hear about my story and how I am able to function the way I do.
I took a sip of my tequila on the rocks, put it down on the table and looked
up. He was teary eyed. This 6-foot tall, muscle man of a human. My eyes started
to well with tears because I couldn't understand how this person could
empathize with me knowing that I had been through what his girlfriend had;
knowing that I had been taken advantage of, knowing that there was a
possibility for vulnerability. Instead of pressuring me to talk, he began
telling me how it made him feel when his girlfriend told him about what
happened to her. I sat there and listened so intently. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.5pt;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Then it happened, I just
said it. I was raped. I was sexually abused as a child and I was raped. I have
been drugged and taken advantage of. It has not been an easy recovery, but the
tattoo served as a daily reminder that I am still here. I immediately wanted to throw up. What the hell did I just say?! When I told him, the
tears in his eyes started streaming down his cheeks. Unafraid and unaware of
those who may have been looking at him. The anger that plagued him showed, not
toward me, but toward those who have hurt me. He asked for the addresses and was fighting the words coming through his teeth. He talked for a while, but I
cannot remember much after that. I had ordered another two Don Julio on the
rocks and was feeling quite numb. I was so focused on how I could tell my
co-worker the deepest secrets of my life after only spending three days with
him. I tried reasoning with myself in that he knew what the tattoo meant so I
couldn't lie and had to tell him.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.5pt;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">As I think about it now,
it frightens me. I let my guard down, I drank, a lot, and could have ended up
in a terrible situation as I have been before. But on the positive side, I
found a place within myself that BELIEVES there is a greater good in people.
While I have always believed it, I believed with skepticism. He gave me an
opportunity to see the better side of the human race, especially those who I am
so quick to place judgment based on my biased view on them because of past
experiences. This guy bared his soul and compassion for another human being
without any expectation in return. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.5pt;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">We walk back to the
hotel, and I am so numb from the amount of alcohol I consumed. I am coherent,
but well aware of the lack of strength I had. I tried as hard as I could to
appear normal, and it worked. He walked me to the end of the hall and watched
me walk to my room this time - from a distance. Though he wanted to make sure I
was safe, he made sure not to be right behind me, as if he knew that was a
trigger. I waved back to him and closed my door. I laid on the bed and the room
was spinning as fast as my mind. I couldn't help but think of how I was
supposed to face him tomorrow after he knew that I was really weak? Did he
think my outward display of being strong was a facade? I came down to the lobby
the next morning to face him and I was scared of it being awkward or him
feeling embarrassed, and me being so ashamed of just unleashing such intimate
details. How was he supposed to take me seriously now that he knew how
disgusting I was?<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.5pt;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">As I approach the table where he is sitting, I smile, he smiles, and
I walk to grab a cup of coffee and some fruit. I come back to the table and sit
down. He sparks up a conversation as if we never talked about it. I felt a bit
of relief. The days goes on, we work and then say our goodbyes. We head to the
airport, and just as he put my bags in the taxi the first day, he did the same
heading out to the airport. He opened my doors, carried my bags and was just
plain decent. We arrived at the airport a few hours early as we had conference
calls that we needed to be on. We sat down at this amazing restaurant where we
could watch the planes land and take off while working and grabbing a bite to
eat. Instead of going to his terminal, he came to mine and sat with me until it
was time for me to board. As they called my group number, he gave me the
biggest, unexpected hug. He whispered in my ear to remember how strong of a
woman I am, and that I am such an impeccable example of how to overcome. He
reminded me that I am proving that what happened doesn't define me. He gave me
a kiss on the cheek and said thank you for showing me your soul. And then I
boarded my flight back home with tears in my eyes. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.5pt;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Though this may not seem
significant to many, it impacted my soul in a way that is so difficult to
describe. It compelled me to write about it because there are so many of us
that often feel so alone and isolated because of being raped. The journey of
recovery is long, but there are facets of hope along the way. Unexpected people
can show up and remind you of the decency you once believed in within the human
race. He did just that. A kindred soul who shared themselves because they too,
believe that everyone should be loved and that everyone is good, everyone is
human. I am working on remembering that I am, too...that maybe it wasn't my
fault. That maybe I didn't ask for it. That maybe I am not weak because I
couldn't fight it...that maybe I am strong. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.5pt;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">Thank you, my friend. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-size: 13.5pt;"><span style="font-family: Times, Times New Roman, serif;">xox</span></span></div>
Twinspirationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964050623275375530noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1546580617976495168.post-23280714700943780212015-07-04T22:20:00.000-07:002015-07-04T22:32:00.185-07:00i miss youYou always see things on the news but never believe something like this could strike your own family. The night Nikkie called me to tell me you were no longer with us became the worst night of my life. You were always a rock and one of ours growing up, and sometimes you stumbled over yourself but you always got back up. I have always looked up to you in ways I can only hope you heard when I told you that. I have always been so proud to call you my big sister, our secnarf, our singing and dancing partner and our forever friend.<br />
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One of the worst things someone can say in a time of grief is: everything happens for a reason. I can't believe that is the case for my sister Fran. Fran, I miss you so much; more than anything in this world. There isn't one day that goes by that I don't think of you. Whether it's a crow flying over me in the morning on my way to work or the days I decide to take exit 20 off of the highway because it is a long road that reminds me of you and it's just coincidence that each time I subconsciously take this exit, it's at the same exact time each time...even more ironically, the same time frame I received the call that you had passed.<br />
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I was talking about you today because someone asked how I was holding up. It took me by surprise once again, that they were referring to your death. Even those words are ridiculous to me and seeing them written down tears my heart out of my chest. When I actually process the fact that you are gone, I can't breathe. I can't breathe now. I can't believe I haven't received a text message or a phone call from you in two months. Two long months, Fran. Where are you? WHY?? I can hear your laugh and see your smile - I wish I had one more chance to talk to you. I want to tell you again how proud of you I am and how much you mean to me. How you saved me when I was a child, more than once. How I looked up to you and then you looked up to me and how we helped each other. How I never, ever, ever gave up faith in you that you would come out on top.<br />
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Frannie, if you can hear me....I love you. I love you with every piece of me. Every single piece. I wear you on my heart every day in hopes that you can feel me, too. Every day that passes doesn't make it easier to process, I feel like it makes me miss you more. I am not strong enough to handle this, what closure do I have?! It wasn't supposed to end this way. We were supposed to enjoy our 30's together - celebrate our successes and how far we've come with the challenges we faced. Now I feel like I am facing the biggest challenge I've ever had to endure - losing you. Losing someone who so willingly stepped in and stopped the hurt as a child and was there when I needed you as an adult. I will never forget all of the memories we made - singing at the top of our lungs in my apt to "Impossible" by Shontelle or you choreographing a dance to " No More Rhyme" and all of us performing it together. Remember we were going to be the "Shetones?"<br />
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I can't handle this. I can't handle you being gone...I don't know how to process it or how this is real. I keep thinking I am in a nightmare and just waiting to wake up. I drive now without peace because I look at every single utility pole and try to imagine what happened and how scared you must have been and it literally tears me to pieces. I want to sob uncontrollably and lay on the floor until I've cried enough to fill every ocean on this planet - and even then it wouldn't be enough tears to make this hurt go away. You can't prepare for the loss of a sibling. I can't begin to describe the pain because whatever I write can't even compare to what it is I feel inside. I'm lost. I make it through day by day and try to enjoy the things that are supposed to make you happy and it's so hard. It's hard to be outside enjoying the beautiful weather knowing that you will never have the chance to enjoy this again or with me. How fair is that?! I'm lost.<br />
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Maybe one day I will make my way through this fog I am in. It's hard, harder than I thought it could be. I love you forever. Big sis <3<br />
<br />
Always your baby sis <3<br />
<br />
PagathaTwinspirationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964050623275375530noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1546580617976495168.post-85724941147043747842014-06-18T19:14:00.001-07:002014-06-18T19:14:37.542-07:00The Window Seat<div class="MsoNormal" style="background: white; margin-bottom: 0.0001pt;">
<span style="color: #222222; font-family: "Arial","sans-serif"; font-size: 10.0pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman";">Another post...not about food or exercise...</span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222;"><b style="font-family: Arial, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: large;">S</span></b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">ome say that the eyes
are the window to the soul. As I sit here looking out of the window on the 737,
I see a capacious world beneath me and makes me believe it. Everything is still
and it feels like we're frozen in time. I can see the horizon and it seems as
if each layer of the earth is visible from my view. The contrast in colors are
breathtaking and it makes you wish you were floating within these layers; the
layers within the stratosphere, the space between you and the gravity that
keeps you grounded to the earths floor. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The turbulent air
shakes me back to simple thought. I take a glance through the small rectangular
window and see such an incredible full moon. The view from the sky is unlike
any other I've seen. Its massive size makes it appear only a short distance
away. The crimson colors and reflection from the sun make the clouds
surrounding it glow like the reminiscent coals of a blazing fire. It lights up
the earth below and I just bask in the beauty of the moon.<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I notice another plane
passing below at an incredible speed. Why does it feel like we're just
suspended in air when this plane is zooming by at top notch speeds? It
disappears into the clouds and leaves a translucent white trail behind it. I am
left pondering if we are really moving...<o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As the plane banks
slightly to the right and the nauseated feeling reminds me that we are in fact,
moving, the magnificent moon disappears behind the wall of the plane. It's
playing hide and seek with me between the two windows I am fortunate to have on
this flight. My eyes fleet down to the twinkling lights below and the view
never ceases to excite me. Among the vast spread of electric filled space are
large areas of land that at night, look like a black abyss. I stare into the
darkness with hope of finding some glimmer of light. And I do. If I look hard
enough, I can see small dots of orange lights beaming up as if they're saying,
"We're here, too!" They twinkle with every surge of electricity that
is flowing through them. They remind me of the stars that shine above them and
it makes me wonder if it's really just a reflection. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: #222222;">Two hours into the flight I close my eyes and reminisce about the happy and peaceful thoughts that this view brings to me. Such a calm washes over my entire body. It's as if I am laying on the beach, the moonlight is reflecting in the water and all I can hear is the sound of the waves crashing as they come into shore and I can feel the wind softly blowing through my hair. I take a deep breath in and silently sigh. I fall asleep for a few minutes. The air gets a bit more turbulent waking me from a sleep that I am so thankful to experience undisturbed for that few moments. My eyes remain shut for a minute and I slowly open them. I look back out through the window and the sky is brighter than ever. The earth has moved along it's gravitational course so the moon appears higher and now has a white fluorescent glow. There isn't a cloud in the night sky as far as I can see. I close my eyes again and drift off to sleep to be woken up once again to the announcement that we have begun our decent into Bradley. I bring my seat back to the upright position and stare longingly out of plane wishing I could take this back with me in the car. </span><span style="color: #222222;">I generally prefer the aisle seat on a flight; however, this upgrade to first class gave me an opportunity to explore the mystery of the outside world from within. A break from the inner torment of feeling like I don't belong up here with these folks. Being able to experience such a sight let my mind focus on other things aside from what I am eating, how I am dressed, how much I need to exercise. It's tranquil.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As we descend, those small twinkling lights that were barely visible are clearly defined into city street lamps and the windows in the house that look like a dreamy picture from a Christmas book. We approach the runway and I can finally see how fast we are really going. All the different colored lights on the runway blur together creating an image of a kaleidoscope. We slow down and start taxiing back to the gate. It has rained and all that is left to remind us are the puddles and steam reflecting in that beautiful moonlight. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Maybe I will take the window seat more often :) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Love and Wellness to all!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Twinspiration</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Patti xox</span></div>
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Twinspirationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964050623275375530noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1546580617976495168.post-40347286057622004722014-05-29T20:45:00.000-07:002014-05-29T20:45:29.275-07:00Food....you are always on my miiinddd<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I think about my weight a lot. A LOT. If I could lose a pound for every time I thought about how fat I am, I would be walking among the Victoria Secret models I so desperately envision being me. Thinking about my weight so much, I obsess about food and calories and sugar and fat and salt. I want them all, but cannot have ANY of it. Zero. Zilch. And like my blog in April, it's so much easier to control when I am home. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have multiple habitual tendencies and for the past two
weeks I have developed yet another very strict way of eating and working out. Today was
difficult in sticking to this routine. It is one of those days where you don’t
want to get out of bed from pure exhaustion. I am sure you all have been
there…those times when you fall asleep an hour before your alarm goes off and
you lay there awake, eyes closed, talking yourself into crawling out of bed. I
open one eye at a time and fling one arm off of the bed followed by my leg. My
foot touches the ground and I immediately retract the pep talk I gave myself. I
look like a circus act trying to get up. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I slowly walk to the bathroom and brush my teeth; second
thought of the day that comes to my mind aside from wanting to go back to bed
is: what will I be eating today?? So early to be thinking about food, but my
mind has it planned – very carefully…as I walk to the kitchen, I think of my next
move. Every step and movement there has to be precise in order to ensure I
don’t stray from my plan and set myself on a downward spiral of a horrible
eating pattern. I have a solid routine when I am home. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I take out the scale and weigh myself – stand looking at the
number in disbelief. I put my head in my hands and just sigh. I don't move for a good five minutes. NEVER happy with
the number, I hide it away in the mini closet as if it’s hiding me.<o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I walk out of the bathroom and to the counter in the kitchen.
I open the New England Coffee French Roast (It’s sooooo good) and place the
K-Cup into the machine. I let the cup sit to cool while I put a pot of water on
the stove to boil some water for my eggs. (gross). I don’t want to eat another
egg, but they are so low in calories but high in protein and they keep me full
for a while so I don’t get that nagging hunger. And making them hard boiled means I won't add any additional calories as I would if I were to make them over easy. I measure my precut vegetables
and fruit that I am eating for the day and put them in their respective
containers. Then I put my protein – usually a shake with some mint extract and
my shaker cup in my lunch bag and run over the list:</span></div>
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<ul>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Eggs – check</span></span></li>
<li><span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;">Garlic powder – check</span><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="font-size: 7pt;"> </span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Smoked Paprika – check</span></span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Valentina Sauce</span></span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Mustard – check</span></span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Separate fruit containers – check</span></span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Shaker Cup – check</span></span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Protein powder – check</span></span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Love handles (I call them; touch me there and you die handles)– check and check</span></span></li>
<li><span style="text-indent: -0.25in;"><span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Coffee and more coffee – check, check, check</span></span></li>
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<span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I go back to the Keurig machine and remove the coffee cup. I
take the ice out of the freezer and fill my travel mug; still half asleep. I
pour the coffee over the ice, still warm enough to melt it and I add more. I
cannot put the cover on because there is now too much ice. I never learn. I
drink the coffee until it about half gone because once I start drinking it, I
cannot stop. It’s like my drug. I put the lid on and let it melt some more so I
feel like I have more coffee – which I tell myself I need for my commute in the
morning.</span></div>
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<span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Every morning for the last two weeks, this has been my exact
routine. It has paid off so far – total lbs lost = 5. In conjunction with
working out 1-2 times a day. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When I get to work in the morning, I arrive early so I can
peel my eggs and mash them up with the garlic, paprika, Valentina and mustard
and I drink about 16 ounces of water. I sip my coffee until I can eat my fruit.
Then I wait for 12:00 to arrive and have my shake. Two hours later I am eating
some more fruit and drinking more water. I get up to use the restroom at least
six times!! I feel like I have the bladder of a 5 year old dancing in the
middle of the store screaming: mommy I have to pee! I leave the office and head
home. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As soon as I walk through the door, I change into my gym clothes and
immediately put on my work out DVD. Sometimes it’s insanely difficult to get
through and sometimes I am ready to pass out from how hard I am working, but I
push through it. Determined to get skinny. When I finish with my workout, I make
some dinner and then shower. My dinner has almost been the same every night
aside from switching up the protein if I include any. In the beginning of the
week I had prepared my vegetables by chopping them into about quarter inch
pieces and put them in separate containers: carrots, asparagus, onions and bell
pepper. I measure out ¼ cup of each, ½ tsp – 1 tsp of extra virgin olive oil, ¼
cup of water, turmeric and cayenne pepper. I sauté all of the vegetables for
about 3 minutes so they are tender but still have a little bit of a crunch to
them. If I make any protein, I will have about 1.5 ounces of ground turkey or ¼
lb of salmon. All of the vegetables fill me up enough to get me through the
night. And of course I drink raspberry-lime seltzer water with my dinner. If it’s
too late by the time I get home, I will just cook my veggies and eat them with
some water. They are so delicious and I take it slow eating one piece at a
time. Lately I have been obsessed with dipping each piece in a drip of
Valentina hot sauce or Cholula! Both have zero calories and zest up your meal.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">June is right around the corner…50 more lbs to go before I will feel any sense of security and can stop wearing these scarves. I hope I
can keep this momentum! 1 week before I become Zumba certified and then I can
kick up the work outs. I am super pumped!! Doing Zumba for 60 minutes can burn
anywhere from 500-800 calories…I could do two a day! Eeeek!! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Stay tuned…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Love and Wellness to you,<o:p></o:p></div>
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Patti xox<o:p></o:p></div>
Twinspirationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964050623275375530noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1546580617976495168.post-37738245391413305022014-04-18T21:35:00.001-07:002014-04-18T21:35:34.880-07:00Eating Healthy?!<span style="color: purple; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">T</span></b>he past six months has been such a whirlwind - I don't know whether I am staying or going and it's wrecking havoc on my body because I am letting it. First blog since all of the traveling picked up pace, and it feels great to be writing again. </span><br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Traveling sure doesn't make it easy to eat healthy, but it doesn't make it impossible. The best thing you can do if you're in a hotel that doesn't have the necessary tools for you to go shopping and keep fresh food, is educating yourself. Educate yourself on the food that is available to you. If you are going out to eat, look up the menu online and prepare the questions to ask your waiter/waitress and choose what you are going to eat. You can look to see if the restaurant you are headed to has the type of menu you can order from; for example, if you need gluten free foods, or are a vegan. </span><br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Eating healthy while traveling and constantly eating out doesn't have to be a battle. While it may seem extraordinarily difficult in controlling your desire to eat whatever you want; especially when the menu doesn't offer healthy choices, you can still make the better decision by knowing what and how to order. I was recently at a restaurant in TX with a few co-workers and this restaurant did not have a single dinner option that was under 1000 calories including the salads. So I had to make a decision on what to eat that wasn't drenched in fat, salt or fried. I looked through the menu and murmured to myself: "this is why you are so fat and continually gain weight." I sat at the table and looked over page after page...the smallest portion of steak or chicken they offered was 6oz. I have the most difficult time making decisions of what I want to eat in general, never mind looking at a restaurant menu with so many options. I start getting very impatient with myself because I cannot make a decision mostly because there isn't anything I see that I can order that isn't a heart attack on a plate. Everyone else is ready and the waiter is standing at the table. While he is taking the orders, I see the salmon and then just muster up the courage to order what I want and how I want it. He looks at me and I ask for a grilled piece of salmon, not cooked in butter and without salt with a side of grilled asparagus. It felt liberating. Strong word for ordering food? Maybe to others, but it's exactly how I felt. I ordered what I wanted, no sauce, no salt, no butter, just how I wanted it. It was delicious. </span><br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I have been traveling for work for the last 6 months just about every week and it's been hard to get back on track with eating and working out. It's as if I get these small bursts of thoughts and excitement that I am going to do better that day and then hour by hour, it becomes increasingly more difficult for me to make the better decision with anything. By the time I get back to the hotel room, I am exhausted and I don't want to work out. We meet for breakfast at 6:15 a.m., working until at least 7 or 8 pm, then we go out for dinner and then I am dragging my feet at 9 or 10 night into my room. Then I open my lap top to catch up on some more emails that I was not able to get to during the day. By the time all is said and done, it's sometimes 1 o'clock in the morning and I do not feel like working out, nor getting up at 3 to work out before the day starts. This past week, I made the effort to leave the office by 630-7, and forcing myself to do an hour of cardio and some weight training before hopping back on the computer for work. Hoping that this week will be easier. </span><br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Summer is right around the corner and I am in the same place I was last 10 years, obsessing over the fact I can't lose weight and that I promise myself that I will do better. This time it seems impossible. I just keep telling myself that with the support of my twin, and a few caring people, I can do this. I can make better choices that will promote my health and well being. Starting with eating while on the road since this is a very real part of my life right now. I've blogged in the past about being prepared for when I travel to make it easier, but taking the actions and caring enough about yourself makes all the difference. Right now I feel completely defeated. The scale seems to go up and up. But I am going to take my mini victory of decision making and continue to strive for better days. </span><br />
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<span style="color: purple; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Today was a bad day, tomorrow will be better. </span><br />
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Health and Wellness to all<br />
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Love Patti xoxTwinspirationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964050623275375530noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1546580617976495168.post-2123780272748788842013-11-24T17:11:00.000-08:002013-11-24T17:11:06.151-08:00meu tio precioso ... descanse em paz doce<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This blog is dedicated to my sweet Uncle Eddie. I love you more than words will ever be able to express. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It's hard to believe you are no longer physically on this earth; though your spirit and love will remain close to me. I didn't get the chance to tell you how much you have meant to me and I am not sure you even knew. So much regret I have in taking for granted that I thought you would always be around. You were such a constant in my childhood - knowing that whenever we got the chance to be around you, you made life worth while. You ALWAYS had something to laugh about and make us laugh. Who knew Streets of Fire would be a movie that Nikkie and I would torcher you with watching over and over again the nights we stayed with you? You bought Nikkie and I our first CD, ever! You bought me Celine Dion and Nikkie Savage Garden - and they are still our favorites... You were so enthusiastic and such a free spirit; so many people learned how to just love life from you. More than you will ever know. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I will miss your intense love for life and riding. I will never, ever forget the long bike ride we took on your Harley, on rt67 from nana's house. All the way from North Brookfield through Ware and Warren...we have never felt so free. We listened to the oldies, stopped for coffee and then rode home. I am so sad. so so sad Uncle, that you were called home this soon. I can't describe the pain in my heart, but it physically hurts knowing you are gone. I will never forget your laugh. Your laugh was so contagious and whenever I imagine you, it's of you laughing and it puts a smile on my face.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I dedicate the below song to you. "Call the Man" from Celine Dion.I love you. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
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<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Close the door</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Shut the world away</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">All the fight's gone from this wounded heart</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Across the floor</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Dreams and shadows play</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Like wind blown refugees</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span><span style="background-color: white;">Call the man</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Who deals in love beyond repair</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">He can heal the world</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Of hearts in need of care</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Shine a light ahead</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">When the next step is unclear</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Call the man</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">He's needed here</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></i>
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">I close my eyes</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">I remember when</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Your sweet love filled this empty room</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">The tears I cry</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Won't bring it back again</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Unless the lonely star should fall</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span></i>
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Call the man</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Who deals in love beyond repair</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">He can heal the world</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Of hearts in need of care</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Shine a light ahead</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">When the next step is unclear</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;">Call the man</span></span></i><br />
<i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">He is needed here</span></i><br />
<br />
<br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">meu tio precioso ... descanse em paz doce</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">-Twinspiration</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Love and Wellness to all</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Patti xox</span>Twinspirationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964050623275375530noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1546580617976495168.post-81205235743772438382013-10-28T19:42:00.002-07:002013-10-28T19:45:01.910-07:00Getting "Comfortable"<span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">H</span></b>ere I am again...sitting in another hotel room craving the familiar place called my home. I close my eyes and as I type, I inhale deeply and let the scent of <i>past tense</i> fill my nose and infiltrate my entire being. I can feel myself physically let down...</span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It's difficult going away for vacation - although vacations are typically relaxing, unless you are some kind of thrill seeking adventurous human and not really into the turquoise water and palm trees thing (HA! You're not fooling me); you aren't near your familiar surroundings, but the greatest thing about vacation? You get to go back home at the end of it and at least spend another year or two planning the next one. So what do you do if you're traveling for business and you won't return home long enough to go even go grocery shopping before turning around and getting back on a plane? You plan. A very intelligent woman reminded me that there is always a way to make sure you're making yourself a priority and taking it seriously, you're health and well being. (Thank you from the bottom of my heart). </span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As mentioned in my previous blog, my company is going through what I would call a merger. That may be a 1990's term, but it's best described that way as it's not technically an acquisition since it was a different company that purchased us and the company's platform that we are integrating into, is considered our "sister" company. I will be traveling back and forth from Hartford to Baltimore for the next three months just about every week and staying through some of the Holidays. In order to make sure that I am serving myself the best way possible within the means that I am given, planning is essential. What do I mean, I am sure you are asking. I am talking about what I plan on eating and drinking and what I can to do make it possible for me to "sleep" while I am away. Being able to "let down" both physically and mentally when you are living out of a hotel room is SO essential and having the resources to do so will make it a little more possible. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">So before leaving for Baltimore this morning, I wrote out a plan for myself on Sunday afternoon when I got home from Nikkie's house. Here is the literal list I made:</span><br />
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<ul>
<li><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Search for local grocery stores or stores that are familiar to me within a safe distance</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Go to WF and pick up some non-perishables that you can eat as snacks and substitute as needed</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pack Teddy</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bring Past Tense (THANK YOU, SHERRY)!</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pack light this time, only what is needed</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Pack only flats so you don't get the urge to wear heels and then regret it</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bring Zyflammend</span></li>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">There were a few more things on the list, but you can pretty much gauge what I am expressing here. Writing it down and having the information in front you helps to ensure that you're not forgetting anything. After I finished packing - and writing down what to pack truly helps, I sat down on my bed and typed in "Whole Foods near Linthicum, MD." And low and behold....there is one about 20 minutes away from my hotel!! A Trader Joe's that is even closer. It truly puts me at ease knowing that they aren't too far away. And as soon as I can work up the courage to travel the roads of MD alone, then I will go. The great thing about technology, there is a GPS on both of my phones, so it's really mustering up the confidence to go. Once I get sick of eating the granola bars and gluten free pre-packaged cereal, I will go :) And I will need to for the times when I am down here for the whole week. How can one eat out everyday, twice a day?! I just cannot trust the restaurants around me enough for that. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">As far as packing goes...I like to have options. I am such an indecisive dresser and need options. Options, options, options. But having options and making traveling less stressful truly do not go hand in hand. I learned this today. Unfortunately flying Southwest you aren't given the option - there is that word again - for seating. You are boarded by your class. I was fortunate enough to receive C-class. (that sentence is dripping with sarcasm). Which means that I was in the last boarding group. By the time it was my turn to board the plane, there wasn't any room for my carry-on. So they had to check it. Initially I was very unhappy about this because I don't bring a bag that I need to check, as I try to keep my travel as light as possible and not have to deal with picking up my baggage. So, I take my ticket that has my new baggage claim number on it and step into the plane....with LESS STRESS. Who knew? See for those who do not know, I am almost 5 feet, taking a carry on bag in addition to my stuffed-to-the-gills lap top bag makes it extremely difficult for someone of my height to comfortably stow my carry on in the overhead compartment without severely invading the personal bubble of the innocent bystander and almost rendering them unconscious when it slips from my hand. Oye! Not having that stress of finding a space for my bag to fit with the worry of pulling a rocky on another passenger and then finding a seat really lifted some unnecessary stress that I put on myself. </span></div>
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I will plan meticulously for the next trip down here...possibly bringing a bag that is intended to be checked and making the effort to drive out to Whole Foods or Trader Joe's so I can nourish my body the way it needs. Right now I am going to take some Zyflammend, drink some water and snuggle in bed with Mr. Teddy. (he remains nameless, so I call him Teddy...it fits). </span></div>
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-Twinspiration</div>
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Love and Wellness to All</div>
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Patti xox</div>
Twinspirationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964050623275375530noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1546580617976495168.post-14483001897625379912013-10-21T20:57:00.002-07:002013-10-21T20:57:54.248-07:00Eleventh Hour...<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">...the phone rings... "FM, this is Patti." "Hey Patti, it's Karen. We need you to go to Baltimore soon." - That conversation (which was much longer than that, but I'll spare you the details), was Friday. It's the following Monday and here I am sitting in my hotel room in Linthicum, MD. My travel companion sitting on the bed with the cookie :) He can keep the 310 calorie cookie...</span><br />
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<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Talk about last minute travel - it doesn't give you much time to plan, what to pack, what to eat, where to go when I get there! It's a good thing I am secretly superwoman, otherwise I would feel completely defeated right about now. Multiple things couldn't have all happened at once to make me so thrilled to be away from home at this moment. For instance, the pharmacy not filling my prescription in time, so I am sitting in the chair in my hotel room with cramps so painful it makes it difficult to breathe - and did I mention I look wicked fat?! I am so bloated you would think I was pregnant. To those curious minds out there: NEGATIVE. Oh, also zero transportation unless I want to take a taxi, and I am all alone. Cool. I want coffee. Okay, okay...there are worse things in life to be upset about. I am happy that my company thinks highly enough of me to send me here. We were recently purchased by another company who's technology platform is much more simple than the one that we are currently using. (Boring, yes). So I am here to learn what they do, how they do it, why their process runs smoother and more efficient than the platform that we use. Go me.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My instructions were clear, take a taxi to the office and Mike will drive you to your hotel at the end of the day. Awesome. So the first thing I do when we land, aside from texting my twinnie, Pickle Juice; I call Mike. I've never met Mike, and I don't even know what he looks like. Looks aren't everything, but to me they can be extremely intimidating. I tell him I have landed and I will be on my way to the office shortly...change of plans. He offers to pick me up from the airport and then we can go to lunch to talk about what the next few days will be like and what is expected. No pressure there! I am standing on the sidewalk outside of the airport waiting for the grey 4-door sedan to pick me up. I am not sure what is worse, trusting your being in the backseat of a taxi cab or trusting your being with a man you've never met before. Trust me, the anticipation sucks either way. The Grey Lexus pulls up to where I am standing...two gentlemen are sitting in the front of the car. TWO? Who is this other guy?? The man in the passenger seat opens the door and introduces himself. And then Mike gets out of the drivers side and introduces himself to me. He knew what I looked like because he looked me up on Linkedin. Technology these days....it's a bit creepy to say the least. He takes my carry-on and places it in the trunk, glad I wasn't going in there, too. But unfortunately the thought crosses my mind. Who thinks like that!? I sit in the back seat and we are now lunch bound. Small talk ensues inside the car. He pulls into Chili's and the three of us head in for lunch. (P.S. Chili's is not very picky-eater friendly). We talk business but all I can think about is how in the world did I get here?! On one hand I am feeling so incredibly insecure in so many ways, but on the other hand, these two men consider me to be the brains of my client and truly counting on me to bring new ideas to the table tomorrow on how to implement our current system to their system with such a demanding client. Ahhhhhhh. All I have are questions, not ideas. Mike drives me back to the hotel and leaves me with my mind writhing.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This business trip is so unlike the others I have been on, or so it seems to me. I just feel much more inadequate and inferior to the people around me. They are all older than me, and how am I coming here to teach them about what we do? How can they look at me and think I have enough experience to tell them what they need to know in order to make this implementation successful?? In their eyes, I am only 28. It's too much to think about. And it's making my cramps worse. hahaha! There isn't anything around me to help soothe my stressed and painful body.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am sitting in front of the heater because I am so cold, and my nose, feet and hands are as cold as a reindeer's in the middle of winter in the north pole. My eye lids are so heavy but I know the sooner I go to bed, the sooner I have to get up and present the non-existent ideas in my head to my boss, my boss's boss, my boss's boss's boss - no exaggeration there, and the two men that picked me up from the airport this afternoon. No big deal.</span><br />
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<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Sweet dreams fellow bloggers and readers. Wish me luck! All of this happened so quickly...so last minute....so in the eleventh hour!</span><br />
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-Twinspiration<br />
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Health and Wellness to All<br />
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Patti xox<br />
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<br />Twinspirationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964050623275375530noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1546580617976495168.post-52221920689020338982013-07-15T20:03:00.001-07:002013-07-15T20:03:33.437-07:00WoRk after VaCaTiOn<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b> "Work hard, play harder..." One of the worst cliches that I hear, merely because, to me, it's untrue. Most of the time, you play hard and then when you come back to work; you have to work SO much harder to try and catch up - mentally and physically!</b></span><div>
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<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b> My sister, her husband and myself just recently went on vacation to the beautiful, sunny state of Florida. What an amazing, relaxing, much needed break away from everything these past ten months. Laying on the soft sand, under the rays of the sun and hearing the waves crash over one another is one of the most tranquil feelings I have ever felt.It's almost dream-like. Not until you're driving in your old rickety car back to CT, in the rain after spending six straight days with your twin sister, that you realize you're heading straight back to reality. A reality that comes with stress, and work, and responsibility, and really thinking about how to care for yourself. </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b> During our time away, we threw caution to the wind when it came to eating and drinking and such. While making a slight attempt to at least eat breakfast in the morning, (which we did, thanks to Dave getting up in the morning and cooking), we filled our bellies with alcohol and not-so-good-for-you eats. When we weren't eating, we were drinking and smoking and really feeling like Anthony Bourdain on No Reservations; except we were paying for everything. At the time, you don't think of the repercussions to come from this behavior. But why would you when everything we were doing made us feel amazing? Laying in the sun; not thinking of the responsibilities that await for you back home and at work. Drinking, numbing any bad feelings away, and of course, the classic smoke with a cold Yuengling. Sounds relaxing, and it is at the time. But coming back to that reality is a tough wake up call, as I so found this morning.</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b> My alarm went off at 4:00am, and Tom-cat was laying on my pillow to the right of me; a familiar experience since Tommy became part of my world. I stare at the ceiling listening to my alarm and literally drag myself out of bed. I shut off the alarm and stand at the foot of my bed in the dim light from the the window contemplating laying back down for just a minute. I decide against it as I know I will not want to get back up if I do. I take a shower, and then get my food ready and my work clothes packed in my gym bag. All of this happens within forty-five minutes, but it feels like two hours have gone by. Routine? What routine?? Three days ago I was sleeping! I was sleeping and then getting up making coffee for my twin sister and her husband and we were taking our time getting ready to hit the sunny streets...I get to the gym and meet my gym partner; both of us taking slow strides into the building of Miami bodies; knowing that what is lurking behind those glass doors are the bodies we can only dream of having. Another hard reality of being back in CT. You look at yourself the same way you did before you had the glow of FL on your skin. At least I have a healthy breakfast and lunch to look forward to. Lots of vegetables and fruit and fish. Renewing food to fuel a very deprived body. With the food we were eating, I was beginning to become extremely lethargic. I drive to work, and as if this morning wasn't already a bucket of ice water over my head, I hit traffic. Not traffic that was bringing me to the Sunny Isles side of the A1A, but traffic that was bringing me back to work.</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b> I walk up the eight flights of stairs to the 4th floor and through the door that I was so incredibly happy to avoid for the past week. As I am walking, I hear the chatter of the agents taking the calls, the tapping of the keyboards and I can smell the faint aroma of coffee that is all so familiar to me. A wave of nausea overcomes me while I am nearing the back of the office where my desk is. I know this is from the anxiety that I have from what I can only expect to be a horrible day of catching up. Sure enough, I dock my lap top and open my email....no exaggeration when I say I had (I should say STILL have) over two thousand emails to go through. Over forty invoices to review, voice mails to listen to and respond, not to mention all the new emails I will receive today and questions among the agents.I sit for a minute - or five and ponder how in the world I am supposed to get through this. One email at a time. Leaving work at 730 tonight is definitely not how I wanted my first day back at work to end; however, I would be lying if I said I thought it would be any different. I definitely played hard and and am working a LOT harder catching up!!</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b> Now I am sitting on my couch, my cat running wild - literally, writing this blog. My eyes feel so heavy; a heaviness that when I look up from the computer, the room spins. Blogging seemed like a good idea to get the first day's stress from being back from vacation out. Eleven at night seems like a good time to end this and say sweet dreams fellow blog readers. </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b> Moral of this blog - You shouldn't have to work harder just to play a little hard. There is a balance somewhere in there. I've yet to find it...when you do, please share :-)</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000;"><b> </b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000;"><b>-Twinspiration</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000;"><b>Love and wellness to all</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: #660000;"><b>Patti xox</b></span></div>
Twinspirationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964050623275375530noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1546580617976495168.post-67113860174003568172013-05-25T21:54:00.000-07:002013-05-25T21:54:02.713-07:00Untitled....<span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Untitled; perfect name for the weekend that I am having. Mixed emotions on just relaxing and the incessant nagging feeling of needing to be out doing something instead of sitting on my lazy rear watching movies and reading all day. Physical exhaustion seems to win me over so far. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Started Friday morning, I got up early and went to the gym, which has been my routine now for the last two weeks - most mornings I am up and out by 430 or 445, depending on my cat and whether or not he is snuggled up next to me...meow. I give myself plenty of time to get to the gym, get in a decent work out, shower and get ready for work. Friday I didn't have to go to work, but I still decided to go to the gym at the crack a** of early instead of lying in bed trying to force myself back to sleep. On my way home from my morning plans, I stopped at Dunkin' Donuts for some coffee for the boyfriend and myself. It was raining and cloudy as it has been for the past few days. My plans of having a beautiful beach day for my PTO were completely ruined by Mother Nature - thanks for that; so I figured, why not fill the void of the hot sun on my body with the hot sensation of the other thing in life that I still feel pleasure for.....a hot cup of java. Yum! Plans for the rest of the day? To relax and watch movies, read, or whatever I could think of to be relaxing - Sleep is not one of those relaxing things that generally crosses my mind, as it's not usually relaxing. The thought of having to sleep or trying to force myself to sleep is anxiety ridden for many reasons that I will not disclose here :-) It was discussed earlier in the day that this was a possible option, but not to the extent I am about to describble. Yes, I said describble - not painting a clear picture for you below, more of a Picaso painting...all over the place and no real point to it. </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">So I get home and bring Eric his coffee and donuts in bed...spoiled man he is. Kidding! (although I do give in to his sweet tooth - have to keep him happy!) I go back out to the living room and park myself on the couch with my coffee and settle in with two comfy blankets and throw pillows. I turn the television on and put on a movie. It's about 1230 in the afternoon and the next thing I know, it's 130. I slept for an hour! I shrug it off and the next thing I know, it's 213. Once again, I make an excuse that I am just so tired from going to the gym. Again, I open my eyes and it's a little past 4. My thoughts: "UGH! WHY!!! You stupid. lazy person! GET UP!" This cycle continued until 6pm. I decided to sit up because this was the only way that I was going to stay awake. I stumble to the coffee maker and made some more coffee...no more excuses to sleep the day away! Eric gets up with me...he slept too. We decide to go to his house for dinner, on the way there, I fall asleep again. We eat dinner and then I go lay on the couch and once again, I find myself being woken up because we are going back to my place. I fall asleep on my way home, and I am so angry at this point. Not because I have slept on and off all day and wasted time, but because someone woke me up. And I mean like a leave-me-the-"eff"-alone-or-we-will-have-a-problem-on-our-hands, angry. We walk in not saying a word and I feed Tommy (cat, meow) and grab some water. Now? I can't fall asleep. Now? I want to go to bed. DOUBLE UGH! My eyes feel like each of them has a 5lb lead weight hanging on the lid. Buuuuuttt, like the crazy soup man from Seinfeld, my brain tells me: "No sleep for you!" </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">It was around three in the morning and my silly man is on the couch snoring - which he doesn't often do, or if he does, I nudge him and he stops. (THANK GOODNESS!) So I wake him to go to bed. I lie awake for about an hour and finally drift off to sleep. I wake around 630 this morning and am just so sleepy! Why?? I slept almost the whole day away. I lay in bed until about 7 and decide to get up. I shower, make some more coffee and the day is history dealing with the insanity of work, battling more exhaustion...not even knowing how that is possible after the extremely productive day I had yesterday. :-D </span></span><br />
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<span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">So eager to see what tomorrow brings. Untitled, very fitting. </span></span><br />
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-Twinspiration<br />
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Health and Wellness to all<br />
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Patti xox Twinspirationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964050623275375530noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1546580617976495168.post-10351223248096310482013-01-27T22:22:00.000-08:002013-01-27T22:22:51.125-08:00Patti Soup for the Soul<h5 class="uiStreamMessage userContentWrapper" data-ft="{"type":1,"tn":"K"}">
<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><span class="userContent"><i>“True
hope dwells on the possible, even when life seems to be a plot written
by someone who wants to see how much adversity we can overcome. True
hope responds to the real world, to real life; it is an active effort.” –
Walter Anderson</i> - I saw this quote today and it rang so deep. So many things happening all at the same time definitely try the patience and positive spirit of someone. But there is always hope - and hope comes in different ways; even if it's not what you're expecting. So there is always a reason to stay positive, right?</span></span></h5>
<h5 class="uiStreamMessage userContentWrapper" data-ft="{"type":1,"tn":"K"}">
<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><span class="userContent">These days are proving to be difficult in doing so. </span></span></h5>
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><span class="userContent">It was about 3:17 a.m. this morning that I finally went to sleep with so many things running through my mind. I could no longer lay in bed - it felt like hours that I was tossing and turning; when I look at the clock, it is only a little past six. So I decide to get up. I walk groggily to the coffee maker and make a cup of coffee as caffeine has become such an inevitable staple in my life again. And to be quite honest, the taste has some level of comfort for me. I sit down on the couch and light up a cigarette and sip my coffee, pondering every thought that crosses my mind. I feel like I cannot sit still, yet I don't have any desire to do anything - not even taking out the trash. I pull up the blinds and let the sun spill over me and I stare at the window with my face in my palm. My mind feels so tortured and confused. </span></span></h5>
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><span class="userContent">I decided to take a nap this afternoon because I am just so tired and I found it much easier to just lay there and feel comfort in my bed because it was daylight. - I always wonder why I love owls so much, and I am beginning to think that it's because we are both nocturnal creatures. - I was so warm, it's like the sun followed me. I close my eyes and I feel like I am basking in the warm rays emitting from my bedroom window. The heat on my face keeps me calm; it feels like a blanket engulfing me, keeping me sedated and comforted. I am startled awake about twenty minutes later not realizing where I am. Now I am left feeling uneasy and shaking inside because I woke up so fast...I get up and find the spot on my couch in the corner of my living room as I had this morning and light up another cigarette. My hunger just fleeting. As bad as I know they are for me, I continue to puff on it as it keeps my hunger at bay. All the while feeling completely guilty for feeling so sorry for myself with other things that are going on right now. Knowing there are people in my life that are so close to me who are struggling with what is going on in their lives and here I am destroying my health because I am feeling sorry for myself. I have wasted an entire weekend, when some people would give anything to have one more day. </span></span></h5>
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><span class="userContent">I need my Nana in my life right now to make me some tea and tell me that everything that is going badly in my life will all sort itself out - between my internal struggles and the struggles of those so dear to me. Especially my significant other. All I want to be able to do is take their pain and their hurt and turn it into my own because as sorry as I feel for myself, I know I can manage. The quote that I found this morning really nails it - Some words of encouragement that will ring true for them and maybe myself. </span></span></h5>
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><span class="userContent">So why name my blog Patti Soup for the soul? Because writing is soup for my soul. It helps me release what I cannot verbalize. I wish there really was a soup with all the ingredients you could mix together that would make all the bad feelings disappear instantaneously. As the quote said, it is an active effort - it's an active effort to keep strong and positive in the face of adversity. It's an active effort to remain positive when you see those who are such angels fall at the hand of a disease that you cannot control. It's an active effort trying to handle your internal demons when you keep getting knocked off of the horse that you've just mounted again and again. It's a collective effort, internally and externally. </span></span></h5>
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><span class="userContent">It's
now 1:11 a.m. and I've going on about three and a half hours of sleep -
and although I am exhausted, I cannot find the comfort to fall asleep. I
have hunger pangs that are nauseating, but I won't eat, 1. because it is one in the morning and 2. because it's part of a coping mechanism I fall into when I feel overwhelmed with stress. I smoke, don't eat or I binge eat and drink. It's a great combination, don't you think? It's obviously not the smart option, but I can't seem to control any other aspect of my life. The worst part is that I am enabling my partners behavior in doing the same thing. It's a somewhat toxic environment for us both. I get upset with him for his behavior, but I am doing the same thing. It's like once you start, it's so hard to stop. So different from one year ago when my sister and I started this blog. Things happen. Just have to keep believing that "true hope responds to the real world."</span></span></h5>
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><span class="userContent">Next blog will be more positive. Thanks for reading.</span></span></h5>
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><span class="userContent"><br />Twinspiration</span></span></h5>
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><span class="userContent"> Health and Wellness to all,</span></span></h5>
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><span class="userContent"> Patti xox </span></span></h5>
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<span class="messageBody" data-ft="{"type":3}"><span class="userContent"> </span></span></h5>
Twinspirationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964050623275375530noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1546580617976495168.post-61790920561035403332012-10-25T20:01:00.002-07:002012-10-25T20:03:05.692-07:00Being you...IS good enough.<span style="color: #4c1130;"><i><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">My feet are in the sand on the beach in Cancun; living up the moments with my sister. The warm Caribbean sun is beating down on us and tiny beads of sweat trickle down our face. I stand up to take a dip in the pool and I notice I am wearing a bikini! But wait...my stomach is flat and I have this intense feeling of self confidence!! I climb into the pool and then as quickly as the cool water hits my face, I am awake....</span></i></span><br />
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<span style="color: #741b47;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Several months ago I wrote a blog about someone using not so kind words to describe what they thought I looked like. They said I was short and chunky. And I know, as I had said before, that it was not meant with ill intent, it still hurt. I find myself, once again, in the same situation at work. One of the guys at work went to the doctor and had a physical. He came in and told everyone how his cholesterol level is 785 - which is insanely high. This man is in no way fat, he is just short. So they got on the topic of how his cholesterol could be so high and he said that his doctor considers him obese. I was standing next to his desk discussing possible natural options because I work in a supplement shop, and one of the guys that ALWAYS makes fun of me states: "Well, look at Patti; she's fat! If she were six feet tall, she would be skinny; but her cholesterol is fine." Now, it's one thing if I ask - "Do you think I look fat?" And how do you know my cholesterol?? I know the truth, I look in the mirror every day. I don't need you to tell me that I am fat. The girls around him and the guy that sits next to him just turn and glare. I understand that he was just saying what he thought was truthful, but I was so incredibly embarrassed. Three times this week he had made some comment toward my weight - One of the girls asked if he thought his wife was fat; his response: "She's not skinny, but Patti is fatter." I mean, what the hell?! Why am I the target of his ridicule? I'm not pleasing to the eye? Then keep it to yourself. It's such a cliched saying; but if you don't have anything nice to say, then don't say anything at all. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #741b47;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">The next day it became the thing to talk about - how can someone eat healthy like me, but stay fat? I am facing my computer screens when they start talking about what I ate for breakfast and what I brought in for lunch; I slowly turn around to them and shake my head. I just couldn't believe it. There is so much work to be done and some people are more worried about the affect of the good food I am putting in my body is having on me than doing their job. I just want to scream out: WHO THE HELL CARES?! I should be the only one concerned with me, and you should be the only one concerned with you. Yes, I eat healthy. No, I am not skinny. But, please, tell me...why does the entire world need to know my insecurity about being fat?! Why do you feel it necessary to tell the people with in a six-foot radius that you think I am fat? I have a bad enough complex about myself, and you feel the need to add to it. And they sit there and laugh because to them, it's a big joke. It's not funny - it hurts.</span></span></span> <br />
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<span style="color: #741b47;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Today I wore black slacks with a fitted sweater and black flats; normally I will wear a scarf over my sweater so it sweeps over my stomach and hips or I will wear a flowing dress or some other fabric with many layers; but I didn't today. The girl that sits next to me tells me that I should wear things like this every day because I look 10lbs lighter. Maybe it was a compliment; but it still angers me. If I wanted to discuss my weight with my co-workers then I would. But I don't! I obsess over my weight enough in my head and with my twin. I tell her every day in an email what I am eating, what I have planned to eat and what I bought at the grocery store. I write my food in a daily journal, and count calories every single day of my life. If you ask me how many calories are in a piece of chicken, I can tell you. Skin on? I can tell you that. Cooked in olive oil and served with rice? I can tell you that too. So the last thing I want to do is come into work and have to discuss with people who don't care, things that are so detrimental to my well being. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #741b47;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">This brings me to my title that being you is good enough. I was made fun of so much when I was a child and through middle school that I don't need to endure this as an adult. I am not that far away from being 30 years old and the last thing I need is for some 30-something-year-old man to tell me almost every day that I am FAT. I strive to live a healthy lifestyle and I eat as healthy as possible. It doesn't mean that I will be a size 0. It means that I will be as healthy as I can be on the inside. You cannot listen to the negative things others may be saying to you. You are good enough. Being you is good enough. You don't have to be something that others think you should be. Keep that in mind the next time someone says anything negative to you. Exuding positivity from within will make you a happier and healthier person. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #741b47;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Thank you for listening to another rant of mine. I think it's important to share things such as this because I know that there are others who go through this, too. I can't be the only one who struggles every day with their self image. Who feels like the mirror is going to break in disgust whenever you step in front of it. One day it will get better. You just have to remind yourself that there is no one else in the world that can be a better you. So you have to be your best you. And your best you starts with, none other than YOU.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Twinspiration</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Health and Wellness to all</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #4c1130;"><span style="font-family: "Helvetica Neue",Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;">Patti xox</span></span>Twinspirationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964050623275375530noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1546580617976495168.post-32425379573061928702012-10-21T20:56:00.002-07:002012-10-21T20:56:26.749-07:00Busy working girl getting back on track...<b>Hello my friends! It feels great to be back! I have been stretched thiiin. haha! I still have about 12,000 more photos to go through and edit, but believe it or not, I have made a dent. Which brings me to the topic I am about to discuss. Weddings. During the week I have a pretty set regimen of my food intake for the day. I have a banana and plain oats for breakfast, a mid morning snack, a salad with protein for lunch or a sandwich on sprouted grain bread, then an afternoon snack (usually raw almonds and a piece of fruit and last but not least, a protein and vegetable for dinner. Sometimes I will have a sweet potato if my fat kid is really screaming. </b><br />
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<b>Now... that's during the week. The weekends are a bit harder. I am usually photographing a wedding or on a shoot so I am not able to eat at the correct times or always eat the right thing. Recently I completed a 24 day challenge and I had to eat super clean AND cut out coffee. Ouch. I don't think I could have picked a more challenging time to do the challenge. In that 24 day period I had 4 weddings and a few portrait, and engagement sessions and with that, came the wedding food. The food usually consists of mac-n-cheese, mashed potatoes, pasta, stuffed chicken breast, and a salad... but it's caesar salad. I had to come up with a plan to make sure I wasn't going to slip up at the weddings! Remember:</b><br />
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<b> It <i>IS</i> possible to be healthy and eat right when you are constantly on the go. I decided that I could either take on the challenge or not. It was that simple. I continued my new way of eating for my monotonous M-F work schedule, and when it came time for the back to back weddings, I felt prepared and found myself excited to see what the weekend was going to bring. I also knew that this would set the tone for the rest of the 24 days. The night before, I acted like it was going to be another work day. I packed a lunch and tried to get plenty of sleep. (Yeah right.) I woke up and had an Orgain organic protein shake and a banana for breakfast. I got ready with Patti and then made sure that I had packed enough food for us. For the rest of the day we had a snack bag of grapes, raw almonds and a few clementines. I made two salads that had grilled chicken, fresh vegetables, spicy peppers and crushed red pepper. For dinner we had a piece of chicken, sweet potatoes and green beans. </b><br />
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<b>By the time the weekend was over I had made it! I proved to myself and every other busy working person that you can be healthy. You just have to plan ahead and remember that sleep is a big factor as well. Even though I can't pack my food for the wedding we have in December in Mexico, I know that I will be prepared for whatever is placed in front of me!</b><br />
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<b>I hope you enjoyed my blog today! I will blog some of my new recipes soon!</b><br />
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<b>Twinspiration-</b><br />
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<b>love and health to all</b><br />
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<br />Twinspirationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964050623275375530noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1546580617976495168.post-12173127689968102942012-10-07T21:18:00.000-07:002012-10-07T21:20:17.949-07:00Staying busy on an unproductive day...<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">...Well that's kind of a contradictory statement, now isn't it. But is it? Most of us work hard, and work a lot; so when it comes down to a day where you don't have to do anything you might not know what to do with yourself or your time...</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">I found that I was lost today. I woke up early and realized that I didn't have to do anything. Nothing. I walked out to my living room and stood there for a minute;. Looked around and then went to the kitchen. I made myself some ginger pear tea and filled my 34oz mug with water and plopped on my couch. I sat there and pondered for a few minutes what I would do today to ensure that I am not sitting on my butt being useless. Nothing came to mind that seemed to fit how I was feeling. So I opened my kindle and just started reading my latest purchase. Today was a day that I could have to myself - mostly, as my job demands a majority of my time; that I didn't have to feel the pressure of answering to anyone or being around people. Everyone deals with their emotions on different levels, and I really love the time that I have to myself. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">As an hour passed and I was still in my pajamas, I started getting this nagging feeling of guilt. I was just sitting there, reading when I could be doing something productive with my time away from work. What do I do? I pull out my lap top and start making corrections to this big project we have going at work. This absorbs about a good 4 hours of my time. Awesome. Let's spend the day working when you're supposed to be OFF work. (We have a running joke in the office: (PTO is not "Paid Time Off," it's "Pretend Time Off"). Such conflicting feelings! I feel like I should be working, but then I get angry for working when I am supposed to be enjoying the one day off that I have! Geesh! I know what can settle this argument in my head..."COFFEE BREAK!" YEAH!!! And then I realize...I gave up coffee one week ago today. Grrrr, okay so now what, I think to myself. Oh - tea! Wait, no...Lunch, lunch would be good since I skipped breakfast; shhhh, don't tell Nikkie. It's not part of the cleansing routine. You have to have eaten at least two servings of fruit by now. Oops. I stumble into the kitchen as my legs are half weakened from sitting for the last 5 hours (that is just terrible). And I make a turkey burger with some steamed zucchini and eggplant. YUM! I go back to the warm spot on my couch and enjoy my delicious lunch - I flip on the T.V. and watch the X-Files movie on Netflix. (I found that I can hook my computer up to my television and watch movies on T.V. while streaming from online)! </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Now what? I am trying to stay busy on such an unproductive day...Do I take a nap? No...that's just being really lazy; I hadn't even been up for 10 hours. So, I make another cup of tea. Sooo good! So calming, I think and so worth sitting on the couch once more - still in my pajamas. Should I go to the gym? No, every excuse in the book comes flooding to my mind. I don't hate exercising; I just don't want to be around people today. Decision made; I get up and start doing push-ups on my floor. What? Yes, random push-ups, which turn into squats and then calf raises. I'm done. I sit back down and sip my tea again. Ahhhh! I am starting to get really antsy. I should be doing more! I should be outside enjoying this beautiful day - I hear rain and then I feel a little better. I tell myself that's it's okay to be home right now. It's raining outside and you don't like to drive in the rain - it will just make you miserable and have outbursts of hatred-filled road rage. The less rational side of my subconscious wins and I stay in. Just to sit back down on the couch and shop online. I need new things for my place as I am moving in December. OH CRAP! I am moving, which means I need to pack. I don't even know where to start. There is just so much stuff!!! So much to pack. Will it all fit? Will my bed fit in the bedroom?? Will I have to purchase a new bed?! It's a house - with a basement, how am I going to lock the door to the cellar?? Do I need new curtains? I need to call my leasing department and tell them I am not re-signing. Too much to think about. Geez, this isn't working. I close the computer and just shut my eyes for a minute to bring me back to a non-panic state. I decide to just put on another movie and lay down. I put on Georgia Rule and just sink into the couch with my blanket wrapped around me, the shades all drawn, my 3rd hot tea and my pillow tucked under my right side. I feel my body start to physically relax. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">I am telling you my crazy day because it's not really a crazy day. It's a non-productive day physically, but a mentally hectic day in my mind. I feel like I should have done so much more like search for answers for things I need answers to, or planted a pumpkin garden, something that would have physically told my body that, yes, you did good today, now you can rest. Instead, my mind is still completely active because I feel like I was under accomplished today. I am sure you are asking yourself how this has anything to do with health and wellness. It has everything to do with it. When your body is stressed it releases hormones into your body that can cause internal damage. You have to find ways for your mind and your body to relax and not be in a constant state of anxiety. Once I find them, I will blog about them each time one comes to me that truly works.</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">It is 12:18am and I STILL don't know what I could have done differently today. And I think that's okay. Sometimes you just have to figure it out. </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Twinspiration</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Love and Wellness to all</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-family: Arial,Helvetica,sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #cc0000;">Patti xox</span></span></span>Twinspirationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964050623275375530noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1546580617976495168.post-42009006771823153472012-10-06T20:32:00.000-07:002012-10-06T20:33:17.698-07:00Back to the basics...<span style="color: #741b47;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Hello to all my blog followers!! Many apologies - as it has been over 2 months since my sister or myself have written. :'( So our promise to you is to ensure that we are keeping up to date with our latest shenanigans!</span></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #741b47;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></span>
<span style="color: #741b47;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">About 1 week ago I decided that my body and my mind needed a complete overhaul from the stress induced environment I have been in lately. My sister started it a week prior and she is feeling incredible. What we started was a cleanse - not a detox as you would think. It is a complete cleanse of anything that promotes inflammation within the body. So yes, this means I have given up coffee! (Everyone beware). Just kidding ;) The cleanse also prohibits sugar, salt, processed foods and dairy. It's very much like the Paleo diet - vegetables, lean protein, complex carbs (meaning legumes and brown rice). My water intake has increased to just about a gallon a day, sounds easy enough to drink that much, right? Well, let's put it this way; 1 gallon of water is equal to 128ounces. That's tough, but a mix of herbal teas, water in between meals and some energy mixes has made it easier. In doing this cleanse, I have been introducing myself to new ways of cooking my food and new recipes. I just may even have a cook book by the time I am through with this. And so I am writing to not only share that so far I am feeling better, but also one of my favorite things I have cooked thus far. </span></b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #741b47;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><u>It is baked sweet potato with onions and sauteed chicken in garlic infused extra virgin olive oil</u>:</span></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #741b47;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><img alt="" class="spotlight" height="400" src="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-snc7/311217_4512782413175_197105332_n.jpg" width="400" /> </span></b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #741b47;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Here is what you will need:</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #741b47;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">1 Organic large sweet potato</span></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #741b47;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">1 Organic sweet onion</span></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #741b47;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">1 Package of boneless, skinless chicken breast (Trader Joes has a good selection of hormone free, free range, no antibiotics chicken). </span></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #741b47;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">2 Tablespoons of garlic infused extra virgin olive oil </span></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #741b47;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">1 Tablespoon of Oregano</span></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #741b47;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">1 Teaspoon of garlic powder (not garlic salt) </span></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #741b47;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">1 Teaspoons red pepper flakes</span></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #741b47;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">1 clove garlic </span></b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #741b47;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">1-gallon ziploc bag </span></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #741b47;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Baking sheet</span></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #741b47;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Small frying pan or wak</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #741b47;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">How to make it:</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #741b47;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Preheat your oven to 350 degrees. Wash your sweet potato as you will leave the skin on. It is so thin and there are many added health benefits to eating it. Cut the potato in thin, round slices. Then take those slices and cut them into quarter pieces and empty into the ziploc bag. Chop your onion and add to the potatoes. Add 1 tablespoon of the garlic EVOO, and the rest of the spices to the mix. Shake up the bag. Line your baking sheet with either parchment paper or aluminum foil and empty the contents of the ziploc onto the baking sheet. Spread evenly so the potatoes and onions are covering the entire surface. Place in the oven on the middle rack for about 25-30 minutes. (I have found that baking them for 28 minutes in a gas stove is the best - it gives them the perfect texture and takes that raw crunch out). While this is baking; add the remaining EVOO to your frying pan or wak, and place burner on medium heat. Cut up the chicken into thin slices; it cooks faster this way - but you can cook as desired. (Be sure to wash your hands and the counter where you just cut the raw chicken; safety first). Add the cut up chicken to the frying pan and season to taste. Add the minced garlic cloves. I added more oregano to the chicken. You want to cook the chicken after the potato and onion mix are in the oven as it does not take as long to cook. The chicken should be thoroughly cooked within 18-20 minutes; but timing may vary depending on your stove. The best way to check is to cut one of your bigger pieces in half and make sure there is no sign of pink. The juices need to run clear - and a cooking thermometer is also very useful. Once cooked, serve :)</span></b></span><br />
<span style="color: #741b47;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span></b></span>
<span style="color: #741b47;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">This yields between 2 and 3 servings. </span></b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #741b47;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">This recipe is packed with many nutritional benefits and is also very tasty. I hope you all get a chance to try this. There are many alternative foods that you can substitute if you're not able to eat sweet potatoes or are vegan! You could use butternut squash and/or zucchini as an alternative to the sweet potato and firm tofu for the chicken. All just as delicious and something I just may have to make tomorrow!</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="color: #741b47;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Thank you all for reading...off to tend to the chicken drumsticks I currently have simmering in the crock pot...</span></b></span><br />
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<span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Twinspiration</span></span><br />
<span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Love and Wellness to all</span></span><br />
<span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: purple;"><span style="font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">Patti xox</span></span>Twinspirationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964050623275375530noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1546580617976495168.post-25800916295275948772012-07-26T00:06:00.000-07:002012-07-26T00:06:23.393-07:00<div style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;">
<strong><em><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Esto no es un adios; sino hasta luego! Translated to English: <span style="color: #4c1130;">This</span> is not goodbye, but see you later...</span></span></em></strong></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">While I am excited to get back to my comfortable bed, little old car and the normal life I live at home; I am also muy triste about leaving such a wonderful place. I have experienced so much in the last six weeks that I feel as if I am a part of this beautiful culture. The people treat me as if I am as well - and they are such beautiful people inside and out. I just cannot get over the things I see every day, and what is even more mind boggling is that this is the "normal" day for them! </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This morning I woke up and just laid in bed for twenty minutes looking out of the window at the city that was eye level with the bottom pane. The sun was shining through the sheer curtains and it made the room glow like a soft touched photo. I struggle to get out of bed; the warm beams of sun laying across my body is so comforting I feel like I could stay in bed all day. I finally get up and shuffle to the coffee pot and make some coffee. I get ready and meet my team outside of the hotel to head to work. While we are walking, there are construction workers on our left that are re-doing the sidewalks to expand them; which will accommodate a city this large with so much foot traffic. - You would think that seeing construction workers is a normal every day expectation; but it's not how it is in the USA. What I am seeing are men very hard at work, so dedicated and such quality going into what they are doing. There is almost an assembly line happening. They have the area blocked off with fluorescent orange netting held up by steel poles, and the only way for the workers to get in is by walking all the way around to the other side. There are two men inside the area with flat metal tools that I can only describe as looking like a pie serving knife. There are three other men on the outside of this net that are mixing the cement by hand. Yes, by hand...they have a mini cement mixer, which has a wheel on the other side that looks like a steering wheel and they crank it by hand. There are two other men that use wheel barrels to wheel back and forth the cement mixture to the men inside the netting using the pie servers. Each man will dump the mixture and the other ones will work quickly to smooth out the area that was just dumped. This repeats and repeats, and all I do is stare in awe. True hard labor. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoC7Uek2-Fj3YJsqPYRM6aAnrVQH3TpVZXW2l6tM1X2CgPa1i43n0_DWqpD7VbwTDPb-fPEGYyk3OEX6skwl5x8Rj6VLeUimuAoJTauaJSIdYvJnF8tGwR5KzmENg9-uLrSib208sW0hel/s1600/Cuauht%25C3%25A9moc-taco+stand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; cssfloat: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><img border="0" height="240" sda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoC7Uek2-Fj3YJsqPYRM6aAnrVQH3TpVZXW2l6tM1X2CgPa1i43n0_DWqpD7VbwTDPb-fPEGYyk3OEX6skwl5x8Rj6VLeUimuAoJTauaJSIdYvJnF8tGwR5KzmENg9-uLrSib208sW0hel/s320/Cuauht%25C3%25A9moc-taco+stand.jpg" width="320" /></span></a><span style="background-color: white; color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We arrive at the office and I go through my normal routine of saying hello to all the agents that are already there and setting up my mobile office for the day. As I am sipping on my coffee and reviewing the cases from the night before, an agent comes to me and asks if I enjoyed my time in Mexico. I literally grinned from ear to ear and tears started to well in my eyes. I answered and told her that yes, I have enjoyed my time, and reason being because of people like her. She vows that the next time I come - because there just has to be a next time, she is going to take me to get the most amazing hot chocolate and churro I've ever had. I am definitely looking forward to that :) Lunch time arrives and generally the Hartford team and I go out together, but let me tell you that if I had to look at the inside of another McDonald's someone was going to get a french fry to the nostril! So three of the agents invited myself and whom I will call Uncle Sam out to a local place to eat. We ended up at this small taco stand about a block from the office. The last trip I was on in Mexico City, I walked by this little quaint stand every day. It smelled divine every time, but said I would NEVER eat there. Well, well, well...look where I ended up! So as we approach you can smell the meat cooking; the aroma that spills over the glass counter fills your entire nose. It's mixed with the sweet stinging smell of chopped raw onions, ripened tomatoes and fresh cut parsley. The cook is standing behind this glass counter patting down what look like mini pitas; but it's made from corn. The little puffed taco shells are then cut in half and the mix of skillet fried pork and the onion, tomato, parsley mixture is stuffed in. They are served on this pink plastic plate. The agents advise Uncle Sam and I that we need to put on the verde sauce that was sitting in front of me. Although very wary, I put it on. I take a bite: SO DELICIOUS. It has to be at the top of the best foods I have ever eaten. This is the culture, this is what they wanted us to experience all along. This is them. We all huddle in the little taco stand, some of us standing at the mini metal bar, some sitting on the large red, plastic stool all enjoying the gordita carnitas. I couldn't get over how much flavor these had to them; the best part of it all? It was about twelve pesos for two of these...that is about $1.20. Quality food for less than you could imagine...why? Because they believe in preserving their culture. I had only wished that I was brave enough to try these before. </span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We head back to the office, ride out the rest of day - and then it's time to say goodbye. I received many many many hugs and kisses and "Can you just stay another week," "We are going to kidnap you," and other little things that wear just so endearing. Two agents drew me pictures to hang at my desk at home and another gave me an apple covered with chili and tamarind. I felt like a teacher on the last day of school. So appreciated. It was very difficult for me to say see you later, to these agents. They are incredibly receptive, and so willing to learn. They want to learn, and it makes me want to teach. As I am going around, saying bye, I can't help but start to get teary eyed. I have grown to love some of these people and I don't know if or when I will see them again. I start to get really sad and my body feels so heavy. I find it hard to walk. Uncle Sam - who has been such a savior on this trip understands exactly how I feel and tries to cheer me up. We start to walk out of the call center, and one of the agents calls out my name. I turn and they are all standing giving me the peace sign and hand hearts. I almost lost it! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #4c1130;"><img height="72" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvBkrDduYEAEvri1QmpbqkaaOZKIbRy1MI4Sn1iq-tEZ8L2e_2QylOKasEN8oWV4fuX8ySVX9Mr96hX4kL9eSSPyt28c-xmC1h6SXfnovdG2chyphenhyphene0VzU0Dy5Ca0rkrC2s1wSu4b7n7VZ9T/s320/Cuauht%25C3%25A9moc-20120723-00738.jpg" style="filter: alpha(opacity=30); left: 422px; mozopacity: 0.3; opacity: 0.3; position: absolute; top: 1160px; visibility: hidden;" width="96" />Intent on making the most out of my last night in Mexico, I really absorb what is going on around me. We walk out of the large building that houses our office, and standing at the door is a man with a machine gun, cocked and ready to use. I make it a point to walk out of the other door, just to look directly in front of me and see another armed security guard. This is not something you see everyday; at least not in the USA. Whenever it comes to money in this country, you know you will see at least three men staring you down with machine guns in hand, old in style, but very much efficient. You can tell just by looking at them that they have been used. I literally shudder at the thought. We turn the corner near the magazine stand and I get that sad empty feeling again, like I am leaving something precious behind. I am. Such mixed emotions as we continue forward. We head to Cafe Tecuba for our last dinner in Mexico before heading home. I ordered <span a="undefined" class="short_text" closure_uid_xmzk9g="89" f="4" id="result_box" lang="es"><span class="hps" closure_uid_xmzk9g="238">de caldo de pollo</span> <span class="hps" closure_uid_xmzk9g="239">con arroz - which is chicken broth with rice and I added some freshly squeezed lime juice and a teaspoon of chipotle sauce. </span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span a="undefined" class="short_text" closure_uid_xmzk9g="89" f="4" lang="es"><span class="hps" closure_uid_xmzk9g="239"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #4c1130;">We set out taking a different path to the hotel. We have driven this path in the tour bus, but on foot it is a completely different experience. We walk by the <strong><em>I</em></strong><span a="undefined" class="short_text" closure_uid_xmzk9g="89" f="4" id="result_box" lang="es" sc="null"><strong><em><span class="hps" closure_uid_xmzk9g="336" sc="null">ngeniería de</span> E</em></strong><span class="hps alt-edited" closure_uid_xmzk9g="337" sc="null"><strong><em>dificio</em></strong>. This is one of the first Engineering schools built in Mexico. The building is gigantic and the architecture is absolutely breathtaking. There is a steel structure on the opposite side of the road of a man riding a horse. It's beautiful! There is a building that is just off slightly to the right. This building is so unique. There is a noticeable crack right in the middle of it and you can see that the side of the building is detaching from the other building it is connected to. What a lot of people don't know is that Mexico City was built in a valley on top of a lake. It is literally sinking. And you can see it in these old buildings - which give this city so much character. Instead of walking forward, we decide to cut through traffic and walk down an alley that I would never give a second glance if it were two hours later. Walking through you see tables and tables of books. There are new books and old books and very very old books. If any of it were in English, the group would have been hard pressed to pull me out of there. It was just so amazing. The smell of the leather bindings and old paper reminded me of my Nana. I could have stayed there. We end up on the infamous Madero pedestrian road and Uncle Sam and I wonder into one of the Cathedrals. There aren't any words that I can say to describe the beauty. We walk inside and I shiver. Every single hair on my body stands up. There is silence except for the faint ceremonious mass going on in the room in front of us. We take a step up into the room and it's just awe inspiring. The alter where the priest is sitting is made up of all brass; every detail. The stained glass on the windows is so incredibly beautiful, and the carved statues look so realistic. The feeling I have standing inside in indescribable. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span a="undefined" class="short_text" closure_uid_xmzk9g="89" f="4" lang="es"><span class="hps" closure_uid_xmzk9g="239"><span a="undefined" class="short_text" closure_uid_xmzk9g="89" f="4" lang="es" sc="null"><span class="hps alt-edited" closure_uid_xmzk9g="337" sc="null"><span style="background-color: white; color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">We head back down the road toward the hotel. The light turns red for the pedestrians and is still red for the automobile traffic. We decide to make a run for it! We cross the main road and Uncle Sam and I talk and walk. We get closer to the hotel and those construction men are still so hard at work. They have accomplished so much in the short time that we were gone. I can only imagine how this sidewalk is going to look once it's finished. Uncle Sam stops to get his shoes shined on the side of the street and the rest of us continue on for one sweet indulgent goody before we close in for the night. Again, we walk and can smell the fried dough of the decadent churro. I order one for me and one for my buddy. I take a bite; the outside is sweet from the sugar and crispy from being fried, while the inside is so chewy and warm from the leche. The combination makes your taste buds dance and it just makes you happy. </span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span a="undefined" class="short_text" closure_uid_xmzk9g="89" f="4" lang="es"><span class="hps" closure_uid_xmzk9g="239"><span a="undefined" class="short_text" closure_uid_xmzk9g="89" f="4" lang="es" sc="null"><span class="hps alt-edited" closure_uid_xmzk9g="337" sc="null"><span style="background-color: white; color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Getting off each floor at the hotel, we all say our goodbyes. It's a bittersweet time - Uncle Sam has a special place in my heart just like the agents here. I will miss them both so dearly. Esto no es un adios; sino hasta luego.</span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span a="undefined" class="short_text" closure_uid_xmzk9g="89" f="4" lang="es"><span class="hps" closure_uid_xmzk9g="239"><span a="undefined" class="short_text" closure_uid_xmzk9g="89" f="4" lang="es" sc="null"><span class="hps alt-edited" closure_uid_xmzk9g="337" sc="null">-Twinspiration</span></span></span></span><br />
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<span a="undefined" class="short_text" closure_uid_xmzk9g="89" f="4" lang="es"><span class="hps" closure_uid_xmzk9g="239"><span a="undefined" class="short_text" closure_uid_xmzk9g="89" f="4" lang="es" sc="null"><span class="hps alt-edited" closure_uid_xmzk9g="337" sc="null">Love and Wellness to all</span></span></span></span><br />
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<span a="undefined" class="short_text" closure_uid_xmzk9g="89" f="4" lang="es"><span class="hps" closure_uid_xmzk9g="239"><span a="undefined" class="short_text" closure_uid_xmzk9g="89" f="4" lang="es" sc="null"><span class="hps alt-edited" closure_uid_xmzk9g="337" sc="null">Patti xox</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #4c1130; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span></div>Twinspirationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964050623275375530noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1546580617976495168.post-72434198947428665192012-07-22T00:27:00.002-07:002012-07-22T00:33:07.302-07:00The Market<div style="color: black; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
<b><span style="font-size: large;">I</span>n a city with a population of twenty-two million people, you think that you would feel very small, very insignificant; but walking around Mexico City, you feel just the opposite. There are people pulling at you from all directions trying to get YOUR attention. From street performers and vendors to little children holding out empty pink plastic cups begging for pesos - they are all looking to you to pay attention to them. There is something new around every corner you turn, and it captivates every being in your body. I want to take you on another little journey, and my hope is that you can experience through my words what I see and physically feel. </b></div>
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<b>There are five of us down here from my office that are helping out our partners here in Mexico.We went into the office today for a few hours to make sure operations are running smoothly for a hot summer Saturday. The five of us gather in a small circle and discuss what has been our plan from the beginning of the week, and that was to go to Coyoacon. Coyoacon is a market within Mexico City that is equivalent to any large Flea market in the United States, except this one runs all year. Then someone breaks the news to us that the scheduled transportation is no longer available due to mechanical issues. I have to admit that I was briefly disappointed because I had been so excited to go and experience this all over again. However, this was not going to stop us from enjoying such a gorgeous day. So we set back out to the hotel and once we arrive, agree to meet in the lobby in one half hour. </b></div>
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<b>We decide to walk across the street to the park which is directly in front of our hotel. Every day families come in and set up shop for a few hours to sell what they've made or bought themselves. As we approach, the park looks like it just unfolds before our eyes, almost like a magic scarf a magician uses to pull out of his bottomless hat. It's filled with so many people and street vendors and I am reveling in the culture. I walk along the tables and there is just so much to take in that I find my eyes bouncing back and forth between the shiny beaded necklaces and knitted bags. I walk on marveling in the beauty that each family has to offer. Then we stop at this one table. It's laden in leather wallets and coin purses. The air is filled with the smell of genuine leather and it takes me down memory lane. I pick up this adorable little coin purse that is made of three different color leathers; brown, dark brown and black and it has a band around it so colorful it looks mosaic. I ask how much it is, and the gentleman tells me it's "diez pesos." Which is equivalent to about eighty-five cents.You know that I now own that little beauty! We walk on an fall upon this table just dazzled with shiny jewelry. There are silver bracelets with colorful rocks set on top, beaded necklaces that have details so intricate, you wonder how long it must have taken to make. My eyes are then drawn to these uniquely colored stone bracelets; the stone is shiny, but has a deep color - almost black, but not Onyx. They are so beautiful that one of the guys I am with purchases three of them for his daughter. </b></div>
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<b>We walk and walk "window" shopping at every table there is to offer. There isn't enough time in a day to stop and really appreciate all the merchandise and things happening around; but we try as hard as we can to soak it all up. We walk our way around the perimeter of the park and then tackle the middle. As we are walking, we can hear salsa music blaring not so distant from us. When we approach the area, there are couples dancing to the rhythm. Everyone moves in fluid motion with one another. It's as if they've practiced these moves day in and out. Hundreds of people are gathered around watching in complete happiness and basking in the serenity that the dance radiates towards them. I stop and admire these brave individuals. </b></div>
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<b>Walking on, all three of us cannot help but stare at this one booth. It's covered in different sized bags, headbands and jewelry all covered with cultural print. We step closer and sitting behind all of this are two young girls - seemingly quite accomplished entrepreneurs for their age ;) The older girl, who couldn't be older than twelve or thirteen was able to communicate with us; her English being very little and our Spanish vocabulary even more lacking. She helped one of my co-workers pick out four beautifully crafted bags for his granddaughters. So impressed by their dedication (and admittedly cuteness), we all purchased merchandise from these lovely little ladies. I am excited to sport my new purple, black and white back-pack! While we are making our final purchases, stomach somersaults are at their peak - we are all starving. Diagonal from this booth, there is a stand that is cooking hot dogs and hamburgers, across from them, there is guy frying bananas and freshly cut potatoes. We don't give in....just yet. </b></div>
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<b>We decide to walk the back area of the market and discover more dancing. There is a different flow of music sounding in the air and more people are lined along the wall sitting and enjoying the glow of the afternoon sun and the joy of the people around them. I am completely enthralled with what is going on about five feet up; there are gentlemen playing chess and drinking coke on the side of the street. The seemingly silent camaraderie that these individuals share with one another is so precious it makes me feel proud that I get to witness this. It's beautiful.</b></div>
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<b>I want to stand there and watch them play, but the hollow feeling inside of my stomach is enough to keep me moving. We stumble through a very crowded area in the back with merchandise much different from that of what we have been rummaging through all day. Lined in almost perfect order on blankets spread out on the ground are original Nintendo and it's games, individual action figures, not wrapped and other items that looked as if they could be collectors items. It was action figure, super-hero glory! Making sure we didn't leave any path uncovered, we started to make our way back. We stopped at the most American restaurant there is: Chili's and finally fed our hungry stomachs - where the other two joined us. </b></div>
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<b>The five of us headed down Avendio Juarez toward the Zocalo (where the President's Palace resides). There are literally thousands of people walking to and from their own destinations. We are hoping to visit more market places; which, to no surprise were already packed up for the evening. However, that did not damper the mood in the least. On our way we saw some pretty exciting characters. There was Woody and Buzz Lightyear hanging out on the corner of Modero and another adjacent street; children huddled around hoping to get a picture with them. On another street there was a life size dancing Elmo with Cat in the Hat. I couldn't help but laugh! Up on the stairs to the right of me was Predator (shamefully, I took a picture for my boyfriend), and with him some other character that was so elaborately put together. I am just so impressed with the effort put into these costumes, and the excitement these people have to perform. </b></div>
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<b>The day is turning to night and I happen to look up and witness one of the most beautiful skies I have seen in a long time. The mix of the uniquely shaped storm clouds and the sun setting created this picturesque scene. I stopped to take a picture. The sun reflection off of the tall building is so perfect.</b></div>
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<b>Last stop before we rest our heads for the night is this little quaint churro stand a block down from our hotel. I have never had a churro before; something everyone tells me I need to try. As we get closer, the smell is so intoxicating it makes me take another breath. There is a line for this little churro stand, and I can't understand why. Until I get my churro. It's called "Churro Rellanos" meaning a filled churro. Mine was filled with this decadent melted chocolate and covered in cinnamon and sugar. (So not healthy, but completely worth it). This was honestly the perfect ending for such an incredible day. You don't have to go somewhere special to experience something special. </b></div>
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Thank you for reading :)<br />
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-Twinspiration<br />
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Love and wellness to all!<br />
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Patti xox<br />
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<br />Twinspirationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964050623275375530noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1546580617976495168.post-81510260400643824762012-07-12T23:57:00.002-07:002012-07-12T23:58:14.909-07:00Not Your Ordinary Post :)<div style="color: purple; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">
<b><span style="font-size: x-large;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">F</span></span>lying over Mexico City in the middle of the night is one of the most beautiful sights I have ever seen. With its vast array of illuminated lights radiating into the night sky, it reminds me of a childhood fascination with Lite-Brite. There is something so mysterious about the incredible depth of the black sky at night and the twinkling fire balls so seemingly put in perfect places. It swallows me whole, and for a moment I forget that I am flying. The thud of the tires hitting the pavement as we land on the runway is enough to jolt me back to reality. I walk in to the airport groggy from the six hour plane ride, with other passengers zooming by me and I feel like I am in a whirlwind; it's a race to get through customs, and I finally make it through. </b></div>
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<b>Greeted at the airport by a familiar face; I screech. "Hola, Nacho!!! Buenos noches!!" and he gives me a quick, strong hug. The expression on his face makes me believe he is as equally surprised to see me again as I am that he remembers me. The ride to the hotel is full of welcomed silence. I sit in the back of the van and once again, am fascinated by the world my eyes see around me. Mexico City is like a tiny world in itself. When you are here, everything about it captivates you; the sights, the smell, the sounds. We arrive at the hotel and I go up to my room on the 18th floor at the Hilton Reforma. I settle in and the first thing I notice is the size of the window. I get a panoramic view of the city from the large window that spreads from wall to wall. The view is just spectacular. I feel like I am on one hundred foot stilts, just more stable! I lay on the bed, in the cool air and stare out the window through the sheer curtains letting the city lights twinkle and dance among themselves as I drift off to sleep. </b></div>
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<b>I wake the next morning, open the curtains to let the sunlight fill my room with a beautiful glow and get ready for work. I meet up with a few of my co-workers and we set out on foot towards the office. What an experience this is. The scent of fresh coffee and warm baked Mexican pastries fill the air along the sidewalks we are walking. There is much hustle and bustle of the people around us also on their way to make a peso. Cars and buses are honking, people are walking fast going past one another, but all the while smiling and saying hello. We cross the large intersection and start on Madero. Madero is a long road only built for pedestrian traffic. As we walk on, all the businesses lined up next to one another are just opening for business. You see them with the gate rolled half way, soapy water spilling out onto the side walk as they clean their stores and again, that incredible aroma of freshly made food. I could possibly consider trying the meat on a stick that even the locals advise to steer clear of. Street vendors are firing up their make-shift stoves and start cooking away. Breakfast is one of the largest meals here in Mexico. so it's no surprise when I see tamales being made at eight o' clock in the morning. They smell divine - I inhale deeply and take in the smells that are so unfamiliar to me. What a strange sensation this gives me. There is so much contained excitement, nervousness, and awe that surge through my body all at once. </b></div>
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<b>On our way back to the hotel from work, it feels like I am experiencing the city all over again in a new light. New characters come out from all walks of life and it's hard not to appreciate whatever it is they are doing. People gather around street performers and encourage them, clapping and chanting. On one side of me there is a man dressed as robo-cop moving his limbs like he is an actual robot. To the right of me, there is another man standing on a stool covered in silver paint an wearing a mask that looks like a skeleton; which is also painted silver. I witness him take a boy's hat off in a playful manner and hand it back to him by holding it against the boy's chest. He then grabs the boy's hair and they pose for a picture. He looks like a statue, and I just have to giggle. In the background there is a steady techno beat seeping from the bar three stories up and I fall into the moment and do a small wiggle to the beat as I walk.</b></div>
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<b>As we continue walking and the music fades, you can't help but notice the large divide in the socioeconomic status of the people around you. On the stairs just a few feet ahead, there is a homeless woman cradling her child, holding an empty cup hoping someone will be kind enough to spare some money. I walk over and drop in some pesos. I walk on holding back tears and I feel for her. I look back and stare at the woman as more people just walk past her like she doesn't exist and it makes my heart ache. I want to run back and give her and her child what they need. It truly makes me appreciate every single thing that I have. We take for granted the every day luxuries that we so casually enjoy and complain about when we don't have them.</b></div>
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<b>Closer to the hotel, the sidewalk widens and off to the side roller skaters have set up mini obstacles. They glide in and out of the made up course like they are Olympian ice skaters. They can move with such precision and it makes me wonder how they make this look so easy. Immediately I am distracted by the giant half Colosseum across the street. I turn my attention to it and just gawk. The architecture of this place is breath taking! I stop and take a picture and vow to myself that this time, I really am going to make that scrap book. Up in the distance is the faint drum of a jackhammer gutting up the damaged concrete sidewalk. We walk past them, so hard at work, all the while we are heading back to the hotel. I ponder for a brief moment if they have a warm bed to sleep in. </b></div>
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<b><span style="color: purple; font-family: Verdana,sans-serif;">I come back up to my hotel room, kick off my shoes, change into comfortable clothes and lie down on the bed. Once again, I am basking in the cool air and staring out the window watching the lights beam back at me. Off in the distance you can see the mountains that surround this beautiful city. Tonight is different. My view on the city is unchanged from the last visit, but my heart is forever changed. </span></b><br />
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<b>-Twinspiration</b></div>
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<b>Love and Wellness to all!</b></div>
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<b style="color: #a64d79;"><span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS",sans-serif;">Patti xox </span></b><br />
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<i> </i>Twinspirationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964050623275375530noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1546580617976495168.post-45866161866615950542012-07-08T00:15:00.000-07:002012-07-08T00:15:42.957-07:00When you're feeling blue...<b><span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">"When I'm feeling blue, all I have to do, is take a look at you....then I'm not so blue."</span></b><br />
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<b><span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And I love this little excerpt from Phil Collins' song; because it is so true for many people. There doesn't always have to be someone you have known your entire life - it could be someone that you just met; that can literally take you out of "blue" place. This was so true for me today; so I wanted to write about it. </span></b></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b><span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I don't have much self confidence in terms of how pretty I think I am, or how fat, too short, but I know that I am a hard and dedicated worker. Whatever it is I am doing, I try to do my absolute best at it. So lately I have been feeling as though I am failing at that and it's making me feel extremely inferior to those around me. There was a particular incident that happened today that I will not completely disclose here, but this is a brief synopsis of what happened. One of the gentlemen I work with has the idea that he knows best and whatever solution he chooses is the right one because he is in the position he is in and I am below him - which seems to be an unforgiving pattern I fall in. There was this problem that was called into me today and I spoke with the person who called it in multiple times ensuring that the problem was being handled and protocol was followed. About an hour after the first phone call; I received another call from my "boss." (He is not really my boss, but being in the hierarchy of the corporate world, he feels he can tell me what to do). The reason for his call was to have me call someone else to find out who was working in the office today as the supervisor because he needed to discuss a few things. One of those things was regarding the issue that I was already handling with the other person. Because he did not feel the choices I made were sufficient, instead of asking me why and telling me directly how he felt this should have been handled, he went around me to "fix" the issue the way he felt it should have been done. Talk about making me feel like I am an idiot and don't know how to solve problems. I felt like I was a 10-year-old all over again. It's like saying; "I think you screwed up, but you are too dumb for me to explain to you that you screwed up, so I am going to tell an adult." In reality, he screwed up! Because he decided to go through hoops and not follow the proper process, duplicate issues were created, more money was spent than necessary and the route that he chose caused a delay in service. And this is just one of the many things he does that gets me feeling blue. It is everyday; asking me to do things that he should be able to do, but feels above having to do it; so it adds to my daily workload. </span></b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b><span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Today it made me feel terrible and I think it dug deeper in my gut because I know that he was saying how terrible he thinks the team is, and that I "suck" and he can't depend on anyone but himself. It's so hurtful to feel like you let someone down or that someone who you think respects you does not; you are just beneath them: an ant that can be squashed with the slightest pressure. </span></b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;"><b><span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">And then...there is that person that really knows how to brighten your day. Like I said in the beginning, it could be a life long friend, or it could be someone that you just met. This just happens to be a person I met about six weeks ago and I confided in this person today after the incident happened - as I wanted another point of view on how the situation could have been handled. And this person gave me some sage advice. I cannot recall every detail, but I do remember them saying that the one thing that they admired about me was the respect that I had for everyone around me and the care that I put into the work and helping the individuals understand what they are doing instead of reprimanding them for making a mistake. This was HUGE to me. Huge. It really helped me feel a bit less blue about disappointing someone who doesn't respect me. </span></b></span></div>
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<b><span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This blog isn't about losing weight or giving you a healthy recipe; I wanted to share with you another point of view that has an affect on living a healthy and productive lifestyle and that is balancing your feelings of self worth - there are people in the world that do respect you. Feeling respected is essential to having a positive self image. When you feel like there is someone who doesn't respect who you are or what you do, especially in an environment that you are in every day, it chips away at that self worth you have built up over the years. So it's important to let those types of people dwell on themselves and seek out and surround yourself with the positive values of those who do appreciate you and what you do. And although this is not the obvious permanent solution, having someone there who tells you that they care, you are intelligent and a hard worker can help you feel a little bit more pink and less blue. And there's always a blog :)</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Thanks for listening! You all help me feel more validated.</span></b></div>
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>-Twinspiration</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Love and Wellness to all,</b></span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><b>Patti xox</b></span></div>Twinspirationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964050623275375530noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1546580617976495168.post-54528235473390601722012-06-06T23:38:00.000-07:002012-06-06T23:38:34.093-07:00No es lo que piensas! (It's not what you think)!<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: magenta;">Hola mis amigos! Como estas? Yo soy bien!</span></span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">It has been a little over a week since I have been in Mexico City for work and what an experience it has been so far. Upon the many challenges of being here, there are just as many incredible triumphs. I had so many reservations about making such a long trip and being away from the confines of my comfortable every day life; that I didn't look at the bigger picture and realize what an amazing experience this truly is.</span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">One of the biggest challenges of being in a foreign country is the language barrier; I do have to give a big "thank you" to my sixth grade Spanish teacher as the basics have helped more than I realized they ever would! I am mistaken a lot down here for knowing the language - must be the dark hair and eyes; the agents in my office that I am just meeting for the first time as well as everyone else I try to communicate with automatically start speaking Spanish to me. It's quite amusing :) So, even though knowing the basics have helped, it is very difficult trying to read and speak the native tongue - although I am able to order an Espresso Americano from Starbucks, haha. This morning I ordered <em>juevos con jamon sin queso y jugo de naranja</em> all on my own; eggs with ham, no cheese and orange juice (which was not on the menu; I had to piece it together from what I am learning and compensate the words I don't know with hand gestures; I am still laughing because I was imitating whisking eggs in the air to the waitress for her to understand "scrambled eggs." At least she laughed too). For me, it has been important to really embrace the culture because it is makes it easier to navigate and feel more comfortable being so far away from home.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: magenta;">My second challenge? That would be eating what I think is "normal." The first day we got here, we went to this cute, little authentic Mexican restaurant. I ordered what my co-worker ordered as he has been down here before and knows what is good and what isn't. The food seemed pretty ordinary for what Americans typically classify as authentic Mexican food, so I wasn't hesitant to eat it. We got back to the hotel and I felt fine. The next morning on our way into work, we stopped and I grabbed a coffee. I have cut my coffee habit dramatically in the states, but being in Mexico, and not knowing what is safe to explore, I chose to stick with what I thought I knew. <span a="undefined" class="short_text" closure_uid_jz7scb="84" f="4" id="result_box" lang="es" sc="null"><strong><em><span class="hps" closure_uid_jz7scb="808" sc="null">No es</span> </em></strong><span class="hps" closure_uid_jz7scb="809" sc="null"><strong><em>lo que piensas! </em></strong>I drank about three sips until I realized that it tasted like they reused the coffee grinds about nine times before they brewed this coffee, AND it was non-filtered water. First mistake. Later that morning, a few co-workers and I stepped out and went to this amazing little fruit stand that makes fresh fruit juice cocktails and cut up mixed fruit. This time I decided on cut up strawberries and mangoes. Muy delicioso!! It's fruit...a common food among many cultures, so I convinced myself it was fine. And it was...that day. Because I am a creature of habit, the next day, I coerced my colleagues into getting fruit for lunch as I was in no hurry to dive right into the unknown culinary world of Mexico City. We strolled our way up the city street to the fruit stand and I got the same thing, only later in the day. In this culture, refrigeration is more of a commodity than a necessity - and my body is not used to such. Mayonnaise is not even refrigerated! So, it was mid afternoon by the time we went and it didn't even dawn on me that this cut up fruit had been sitting out since 7am in the morning. As the day progressed, my stomach grew increasingly upset and it felt like someone was repeatedly stabbing my intestinal tract with knives. (Sorry for the graphics). I was completely under the weather for 2 days. I felt like I had the flu and only drank water and ate saltines! My stomach has not been right since. You have to be mindful of the way things are prepared no matter where you are. You cannot assume that because you eat or drink a particular food at home, means that you can where ever you go. Things are prepared and grown differently in other cultures from your own. The positive thing about this, is that I was thinking proactively and brought some probiotics down here with me :) - I will definitely be more prepared for the next trip I take out of the country. Here's a tip: if a co-worker advises you to go see the doctor downstairs because you are not feeling well....don't do it. They will offer you a shot for any ailment you see them for. Be prepared.</span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My third, but not last challenge thus far? Greeting people. Every day you walk in the office here, they all hug and kiss you, some kiss on the cheek, some kiss on the lips. I was mortified. Plain and simply mortified. WHY ARE YOU KISSING MY LIPS?! I do not know you!!! It is their way of saying hello and goodbye every day. This is completely uncomfortable for me and have not gotten used to it. However, I have identified the people who like to kiss on the lips and I politely turn my cheek when saying hello. It may make me feel bad, but I would rather feel bad than be kissed on the lips! Talk about culture shock! </span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I have another nine days here, and going to make the best of it. Although these challenges have presented themselves, I have found ways to cope with them and turn them into a learning experience. It is just another way to help me grow. Mexico City is a beautiful place. And although I was sent here for work, I am privileged to have been given this opportunity to come and work here for a few weeks.</span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Aside from the challenges of eating, speaking and saying hello, I must say that this is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been. The architecture here is unlike anything I have seen. The buildings are so large, and original stuctures have been here since the 1700's. I mean, c'mon...you HAVE to be able to appreciate such architecture. The cathedral has been my favorite place to visit, and across the "street" there is what is left of the pyramid that they built the Cathedral from. This Cathedral is the largest in Mexico and the third largest in the entire world. When I walked inside, I literally stopped and gasped. I was in such awe. I also visted the House of Tiles...which survived the earthquake of 1985 - when you walk inside, everything leans slightly to the left - the entire place is made of tiles. Explaining this in writing does not do it any justice; but I just am so lucky to see this. If I were to write about everything, this blog would be too long! So I will write again before I leave this place :)</span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">OH! One more thing I want to share with you all....my amazing co-workers took us to this market called Coyacon, where they sell everything from flowers to whole dead chickens. And when I say everything, I am talking everything...right down to grass hoppers! We have this running joke between us down here that I speak the culture, but Jeremy lives the culture. Well, let me tell you how much I lived the culture at this market. I ate a dried grasshopper! It was lime and chili flavored. The best way to describe it? It was like eating the earth - which, in some way, makes it more enjoyable. Will I do it again? Absolutely not. But the people around me really appreciated the fact that I didn't shun their every day culture. </span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If there is one thing that I have learned, while I am here is: <strong><em>No es lo que piensas!!!</em></strong> Everything is not what it seems. While being careful and making mindful choices, also live up the experience that has been given to you.</span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">-Twinspiration</span><br />
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<span a="undefined" class="short_text" closure_uid_jz7scb="84" f="4" id="result_box" lang="es" sc="null"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="color: magenta;"><span class="hps" closure_uid_jz7scb="854">El amor</span> <span class="hps" closure_uid_jz7scb="855">y el bienestar</span> <span class="hps" closure_uid_jz7scb="856">a todos los,</span></span></span></span><br />
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<span a="undefined" class="short_text" closure_uid_jz7scb="84" f="4" lang="es" sc="null"><span class="hps" closure_uid_jz7scb="856"><span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Patti xox</span></span></span><br />
<br />Twinspirationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964050623275375530noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1546580617976495168.post-16517591382081919712012-05-15T21:06:00.003-07:002012-05-15T21:06:43.180-07:00Stress Eating or Not?<span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Before I get started; just want to sincerely apologize for not blogging the past few weeks. Although things have been crazy and stressful, there isn't any reason that I cannot blog. The positive note is that it gave be the inspiration to write this one ;o) </span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">So I know I use my office as an example for just about every blog, but I am there for most of my day. I am sitting there every day and it never fails I hear someone saying: "I am so stressed out, can someone PLEASE get me some CHOCOLATE." Or "I can't take it anymore, let's order some fried food." There is also the opposite such as myself, that turn away food when they are stressed, and just skip it altogether. Neither is a good choice and you are doing more harm to your body than you know. </span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">The past few weeks have been extremely stressful between both jobs and home. I have found myself feeling very fatigued, easily agitated, and not hungry. You might be thinking that I am lucky that I don't "stress eat," but I'm not. Not at all. See I skip meals when I am feeling stressed and then when I am feeling better, I eat. Not only does it slow my metabolism, but it is also slowing my digestion process making me feel incredibly bloated and uncomfortable when I do decide to eat. I am thinking about how I am feeling right now...and I am miserable. I didn't each much all day because of the amount of stress my body felt like it was under. Everytime I felt a hunger pang and wanted to eat, I would immediately become nauseated and decide I couldn't eat. Thinking back on the day, and feeling as bloated and cranky as I do, I am wishing I could have pulled myself out of this slump. In the end, if I ever want to truly be healthy and be at a healthy weight, I need to ensure that I am doing whatever I can to make my body happy.</span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">Whether it is stress eating or not eating when you are stressed, you need to find some way to ease your mind and body. If you are over eating, it's time to take a step back and ask yourself if you are truly hungry or if you're just trying to comfort yourself. Instead of reaching for the fried, greasy or sugary substances; try going for a quick walk. Take five minutes away and call your twin :) Or if you don't have a twin (as I usually assume everyone does), drink some water. Do anything that will take your mind off of food. This will be in the moment, but just say no. You're body will surely thank you for it. Now if you are on the opposite end of the spectrum, and you don't eat when you are stressed, you have to remember that you need to eat. Eat something small and something that will energize you, not bloat you and that you know agrees with your body. For me, I try to eat something like a handful of almonds, maybe a granola bar or a protein shake. It gives me the nutritional sustinance my body needs while also satisfying my hunger pangs without making me feel like I just ate a Thanksgiving meal. </span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">Like I said, it's definitely in the moment. You have to stop and think; yes I need to eat something or no, I am not going to reach for that chocolate cookie. Today I did not stop and think in the moment which is why I am now writing this blog. I did not give myself time to react in the stressful environment and I made the wrong decision. And when I left work, I allowed myself to eat - and I ate what didn't agree with me. There isn't any way for me to undo what I did to myself today, but knowing what decisions I made today, I can look back tomorrow and make sure that I am making the decisions that I know my body will be thankful for. I have prepared my food for tomorrow so that I cannot come up with any excuses not to eat or not eating the right thing.</span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">If there is anything that you can take away from this short post it is to make sure that you are thinking about your body first. If you are stressed and you can take the time to really notice what is going on - that you are not eating or you are eating too much - stop, take a breath and just think about what you are doing. Stress can take a big toll on your mind, body and spirit. You need to make yourself a priority and do whatever YOU can to make your body at ease. </span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">-Twinspiration</span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">Love and Wellness to all</span><br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">Patti xox</span><br />
<br />Twinspirationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964050623275375530noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1546580617976495168.post-86991961282396552692012-04-05T20:41:00.001-07:002012-04-05T20:41:56.078-07:00Garlic Parmesan Asparagus<b>I would be lying if I said that I have always liked asparagus. In fact, I DESPISED it. I never gave that green stalky vegetable a chance. That is until recently.... I bought fresh asparagus about 7 months ago and fell in love. I figured I would share with you a recipe that I put together for a quick, healthy and delicious meal. </b><br />
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<b><u><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Garlic Parmesan Asparagus</span></u></b></div>
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<b><u>What you need:</u></b></div>
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<li><b>1 lb of thin asparagus</b></li>
<li><b>3 tbsp of minced garlic</b></li>
<li><b>1/2 tsp garlic powder</b></li>
<li><b>1 tbsp of parmesan cheese</b></li>
<li><b>1/8 cup water </b></li>
<li><b>butter spray (optional)</b></li>
<li><b>salt and pepper</b></li>
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<b><u>What to do:</u></b></div>
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<b>In a frying pan, add the minced garlic. Wash the asparagus thoroughly and cut off about an inch from the bottom. That part tends to be very chewy and stringy... Add the asparagus to the pan. Turn on to a medium heat and cook for about 3-4 minutes. Once the garlic starts to bubble, add the water. Sprinkle on the garlic powder and then spray about 10-15 pumps of butter spray. Add the parmesan cheese and mix until all of the asparagus is coated. Add more or less seasoning and parmesan to taste as well as the salt and pepper. Cover the pan and let simmer for another 5 minutes. The asparagus will be hot and still have a light "crunch." You can cook longer if you prefer your vegetables to not have a crunch to them.</b></div>
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<b>I like to pair this with garlic tilapia or swordfish and wasabi.</b></div>
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<b>I hope you will try this recipe and like it!</b></div>
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<b>Twinspiration-</b></div>
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<b>Love and Health to all</b></div>
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<b>-Nikkie</b></div>
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<br /></div>Twinspirationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964050623275375530noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1546580617976495168.post-43811209089472682982012-03-28T22:13:00.000-07:002012-03-29T20:54:28.288-07:00But I want it!<span style="background-color: white; color: magenta; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Do you have a favorite food? I know you do, because I do. That favorite food of yours, is it bad for you? Or a better question: do you know if it's bad for you? It could be a food that by normal standards is considered good for the general population, but it could be doing damage to your body if you're not aware that you shouldn't be eating it.</b></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: magenta; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>I have many favorite foods...from potatoes to asparagus to coffee (Okay, coffee is not a food), but one of my all time favorite food groups is dairy (and coffee). I know...dairy, it's weird. I DO NOT DRINK MILK. That is gross. But I do love cottage cheese, yogurt, sour cream and cheese. I could eat cottage cheese until it's coming out of my ears, haha. And poached eggs...oh my goodness, how I love poached eggs on a plain English muffin with a cup of coffee and an orange. For years I have been eating these things and for years my stomach has been rebelling on me. I didn't know it was rebelling, I thought it was just the natural progression of digestion, but it wasn't. Whenever I eat these foods I feel bloated, I get indigestion and sometimes even get a headache. I never paid any attention to these symptoms and just brushed it off, until one day I ended up with an ulcer and gastroesophageal reflux disease. This was from years of eating food that I thought was healthy. I was ignoring the other signs that it actually wasn't healthy for MY body because I loved the taste of them; and I was informed that they were good for me to eat. This is when you have to ask yourself if your favorite food is bad for you, even if it's "good" for you. </b></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: magenta; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>It's not easy giving up your favorite foods, I still struggle with it all the time! I love coffee...some would even say that I am addicted to it. I used to drink two pots of coffee a day. Yes, two pots. I am not in any way exaggerating when I tell you this. I love the taste, the smell, the emotional connection I feel when I drink it, but it's one of those things in my life that is "bad" for me. And it's not bad in a way that you might be thinking. I drink it black - it is bad in the way that it gives me terrible reflux whenever I drink it; yet it is the toughest thing for me to give up. So I have to ask myself if it is worth it. Is it worth the discomfort it gives me after I drink it? Is it worth the internal damage it does to my esophagus? No. There is always an alternative. And you might think you're depriving yourself of the amazing sensation this particular food gives to you, but you need to also think about the deprivation you are putting your body through.When you are consuming something that your body cannot process, you are putting unnecessary stress on your organs and over all well being. </b></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: magenta; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>You might ask then -"Well how do I know if the food I am eating is affecting me in a negative way?" I will answer that I am not sure! Only you and your doctor will know for sure. Start small. Start by logging what you are eating and how you feel after you eat or drink a particular food in a diary. Write everything down. EVERYTHING - even if it gave you diarrhea. These are important things to tell your doc or natural path when/if you decide to go. If the food you are eating is giving you indigestion or a stomach ache, it's a possibility that you may have a sensitivity to it. That is how I came to the realization that I cannot eat pasta or eggs or yogurt or drink my beloved coffee. Whenever I eat pasta, I immediately get a stomach ache that feels like spikes are shooting out from all sides of my torso. Whenever I eat eggs, they constantly repeat on me...and yogurt gives me indigestion. I have been trying for the last year or so to test different foods and see what my body will allow me to eat and what it won't. Even tonight, I am sitting here writing and I have TERRIBLE indigestion. I can't think of what I had today that would have given it to me. I ate soup for lunch from Panera Bread - the problem with eating out is that you don't truly know the ingredients, and I can almost guarantee that there was something in that soup that didn't agree with my body. It's tough, but eventually you can eat what is right for you. We can learn together. </b></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: magenta; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>I can't wait for that day when I can say that I ate my favorite food and it was delicious and not: I ate my favorite food and now I am paying for it. - the excuse "But I wanted it" cannot be a phrase you settle for anymore. Remember that eating your favorite food goes more than skin deep.</b></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: magenta; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Thanks for reading!</b></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: magenta; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>-Twinspiration</b></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: magenta; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Health and Wellness to all,</b></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: magenta; font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Patti xox</b></span>Twinspirationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964050623275375530noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1546580617976495168.post-75436956504615648752012-03-07T22:01:00.003-08:002012-03-07T22:01:44.443-08:00I took the stairs this morning<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">That's right, I took the stairs this morning...8 flights up. Significant? If you're claustrophobic and cannot take the elevator, yes...but this is not the meaning I am going for ;) See, I like to emanate optimism and positivity; almost two in the same and what I am talking about here is the difference it made to me by taking the stairs at work rather than the elevator. (Although, if you're a Steven Tyler fan such a myself; you might think you'll find love in an elevator). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "Trebuchet MS", sans-serif;">Every day is a new opportunity to make better choices than you did the day before. This can be anything; as small as taking the stairs in the morning or as grand as helping a person in need. Making that "right" choice for you is important. Taking the stairs at work for me, was a right choice. It put me in such a great mood, and this just set off a domino effect for the rest of the day. I felt like I made a decision that was a "step" in the right direction. You can get such an adrenaline rush from making a choice that makes you happy, and this was one for me. </span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Similar to the stairs at my office ;)</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Since I was in such positive spirits, I felt like not only was I more productive at work, but I also had more clarity and this made me feel like I had all the answers - well...maybe not all the answers, haha. I mean, I am still blogging from my one bedroom apartment and not a three story condo sitting on a Miami water way with Manatee right at my fingertips. But the clarity I had was more than just answering questions of my co-workers, it was also answering questions from myself. Like, should I drink this protein shake instead of eating all of these gluten, processed, fatty laden girl scout cookies that every one is so proudly eating; or do I go a step beyond what I feel comfortable with and offer to take on a more challenging task than normal so others can catch a break today or just complete my own tasks at hand. You'll be happy to know that I did not give into the cookie monster that has so happily taken over my office. Although I do love to support children and their local fundraisers, I gladly gave away the ones I purchased. I was going to put a picture of cookie monster on here to show you I caught him in action, but He was just too fast. I was able to make the decision of not putting the processed junk in my body and also help out a co-worker who was feeling overwhelmed. In this instance, the choice I made this morning impacted another person in a positive way. I was happy to help, and this person was able to feel less stressed about the rest of their day. The rest of the day I made smarter choices. I ate a lot better, I was happier, I didn't feel as agitated and I stayed optimistic about the challenges that day brought on.</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"> These are very small examples of making what you think is the right choice that can promote a positive well being with you. When I am talking about making a choice of taking the stairs, I am also speaking metaphorically.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">I want to share with you something that impacted me with an overwhelming sense of compassion. I hope that when you read these next few sentences that you can feel the deep emotion that has impacted the way I think tremendously. It was a few weeks ago at work - I worked in a different department in my company for about 6 months last year and became very close with one of my co-workers because of the way were able to work together -we worked side by side - and he actually respected my work and work ethic. He made me feel a lot smarter than I am. About six months ago, I was asked to join another part of my company, which I accepted, however, it meant that I would no longer be working with him or seeing one another on a regular basis. This was a lot more difficult than anticipated. Now even though I say we were close, it's not the "huggable" friendship you would imagine. Since I have been on the "other side" we are able to only occasionally say hello in passing and exchange a quick IM as we are both so incredibly busy. So a few weeks ago, I decided to stop by his desk to say hello and chat for a quick moment. I gave him a hug, we chatted for about 5 minutes and then I went back to my desk. A week passed and I didn't think anything of our brief encounter; but then he came to my desk and said: I just wanted to tell you that I really needed that hug you gave to me the other day...you don't know how much that meant and it was so significant that I went home and told Emily about it. He went on to tell me that him and his fiance just lost someone and about other heart wrenching things - The hug that I gave him to say hello really moved him and uplifted his spirits that much because of the tumultuous time he had been having at home; this really moved me. It moved me to tears. Something that I did helped another human being without even questioning my motives. He was so thankful and just couldn't believe out of all the days, I chose that day to come and say hello. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">A small or grand gesture that lends a positive light is always good for the soul. It's amazing what one choice that makes you happy can do for others and for yourself. When you are walking by someone, smile. You never know if they are moments away from hurting themselves. When you are walking through a door, hold it for the person behind you. You don't know how many doors have been shut in thier lives. When you see someone crying, don't just brush it off like they are looking for attention, hand them a tissue and smile. Just this simple gesture can let them know they are not alone. If someone is speeding behind you, let them go and just think - it could be someone they are trying to get to. So the next time life offers you to take the stairs or ride the elevator, make the better choice, for you - and for me. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">I took the stairs this morning and will take them again tomorrow and the day after and the day after that. What about you?</span><span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">-Twinspiration</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Love and Wellness to all</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Trebuchet MS;">Patti xox</span></div>Twinspirationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964050623275375530noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1546580617976495168.post-9657086860641583482012-03-01T20:34:00.000-08:002012-03-01T20:34:00.013-08:00Why Be Glum?<div>
<b>Why was I having such a hard day with staying focused and on track? I thought about it all morning and couldn't think of a reason. No excuses, right?! If I couldn't think of an answer, I knew who could. So, I did the best thing I could think of... I called my sister for some Twinspiration. She said, "Blog it... and remember that you're allowed to have days like this." She was right. I <i>AM </i>allowed to have an "off" day. </b></div>
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<b>Here is how it started........ and how it ended.......</b></div>
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<b>It was Tuesday, February 26, 2012... I woke up at 6:00 and got ready for work. I was in a very mellow and weird mood. I didn't like it. Maybe coffee would do the trick. Nope. I didn't want a coffee. I left for work and decided to stop for coffee anyway. I went to Starbucks and ordered a triple espresso over ice with soy milk and cinnamon. My favorite. That still didn't make me feel better. Well, at least I ate a good breakfast and everyone is back from vacation so it will be a normal day at work, right? Wrong again, sister. A co-worker called out sick and I am 10 minutes late - Wow... am I feeling sorry for myself. So, the day passes......... </b></div>
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<b>..........and it was time for lunch. I went to the kitchenette in my office and took my lunch out of the fridge. Veggies and a protein patty... AGAIN. About 99% of the time I love eating my fruits and vegetables. However, that day, I just didn't want to eat my veggies. I placed my dish in the microwave and watched it as it went around.... and around... and around.... I figured, the more I watched, the better it would look. On a normal day that bowl of veggies and protein patty would look delicious and I would eat it and be satisfied. For some reason, the more it cooked, the less I wanted it. I went back to my desk and ate it. Very Slowly. </b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8WnuGq-lqZPdH7neEF0mcTPhg7AXUksmW81dkaXZq0qoVXxk2fdo_QcnYZ_r89rvuTxEoi44ttLnJTwTPv6uZUGGigir1uEcCM0Rhn_eFuiHj1G-sZpCPUyQcjVi2naaNArTucBkvFfPG/s1600/photo-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><b><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8WnuGq-lqZPdH7neEF0mcTPhg7AXUksmW81dkaXZq0qoVXxk2fdo_QcnYZ_r89rvuTxEoi44ttLnJTwTPv6uZUGGigir1uEcCM0Rhn_eFuiHj1G-sZpCPUyQcjVi2naaNArTucBkvFfPG/s320/photo-7.jpg" width="239" /></b></a></div>
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<b>I finished my lunch and at that point I thought to myself "seriously, Nikkie? snap out of it. you're pathetic." I talked to Patti on the phone and via email... She was oddly enough, having the same type of day. WEIRD. We figured it out, together. I was exhausted - mentally, physically and emotionally with my diet, my exercise and life. Well, that's pretty easy you think - everyone gets like that! Well, maybe they do. But that day, I felt like I was the only one going through it. When I talked to Patti I realized how selfish I was acting. I am not the only one struggling to reach my goal, or stay at my goal... or stressing at work... or fighting off everyday temptations that other people don't have to resist. It's my life. It's how I have to live it. It's the decision that I made, so why be so upset about it? Everything will pay off. It really will! </b></div>
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<b>Soon after my conversation with Patti, I got over whatever I was feeling. I texted a friend to go to Zumba with me. After all, exercise is the best medicine! I finished work and left to head to The Dance Factory to shake off the bad energy I had. On my way to Plymouth I saw the best license plate. All it said was Y B GLUM - get it? Why be glum? so simple but so powerful to me at that moment.</b></div>
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<b>My day started out weird, but with a little twinspiration from an amazing heart and a simple saying from a license plate, it ended with so much more greatness than I could have expected. </b></div>
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<b>So next time you're having an "off" day... think of this, and I guarantee you will laugh a little or hopefully, a lot!</b></div>
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<b>"I wish I were a glow worm, a glow worm is never glum. 'cause how can you be grumpy, when the sun shines out your bum?"</b></div>
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<b>Twinspiration-</b></div>
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<b>Love and health to all</b></div>
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<b>-Nikkie</b></div>Twinspirationhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05964050623275375530noreply@blogger.com2