Week in Review

 I was feeling fantastic participating in the six-month aryuvedic program.  I had eaten the one pot meals around the same time, daily.  I had minimized my water intake while eating and instead tried to focus on digestion and removing toxins from my body.  That is, until last Wednesday.  

What happened on Wednesday you ask?  Well, there is a gas leak in my building which I found out about at 1:45 pm.  (Of course, I had a catering in an hour and fifteen minutes to consider).  My landlord informed me that they would have to shut off the gas and hot water until the gas leak was fixed.  She suggested that I shower if I needed to shower.  That gas would be off for a minimum of two days.  

Sounds terrific, right?  Keep in mind the temperatures were hovering around twenty and on Thursday decreased to eight degrees.  No heat.  No opportunity to shower or cook food.  I asked her if she would be rehousing us since the current situation was inhabitable.   Her response--if you make me.  She is unaffected since she has a separate gas line to her apartment.  The rest of us tenants would have to freeze while the gas leak continued.  

In addition, she told one of my neighbors that he could go to good will to purchase a space heater if he wanted to.  He had requested some sort of relief to the cold.  He told her that it was her responsibility to provide space heaters or some sort of relief.  Think about that.... buy a used space heater.  What could possibly go wrong?  Instead of freezing in the apartment, electrical fires could burn the entire place down?  Smart idea?!?!  

Since Wednesday, I have been staying with a friend.  I need to be able to function as an adult. I need access to showers and eating.  And it is incredibly cold in my apartment.   My landlord offered her place as a remedy to the cold.  We could use a sleeping bag to sleep on the floor, use her shower and have some hot tea.  It is incredulous that she suggests this as a solution.  I feel like I am being treated like I am squatting when, in fact, I am paying rent.  Rent to her which qualifies me to certain protections.  Having access to heat, water, feeling safe/secure.

Due to that disruption of my routine and mental health, I have veered from the aryvdic program.  I drank some wine with my friend, Brie.  I have managed to heat healthy--some modifications.  But, for the most part, I have followed the program.  I have not drunk coffee in nine days which is huge in my world.  I love coffee.  Especially while working early morning events which happened on Thursday.  

I participated in a group call which is another benefit of this program.  Connecting with other women who are also attempting to reset their hormones with this program.  They offer daily calls hosted by former participants.  I was able to pop in but felt distracted.  I didn't realize how much being uprooted from my apartment would affect me.  I am fortunate to be at my friend's home, but I still lack the comfort of my routine or safety of the space I have created.  

I know there will be days and weeks that will go well and other times when I will struggle.  I am trying to be hopeful and realistic.  Feeling grounded will help.  I am hopeful that the gas leak gets fixed early next week.  On Friday, the inspection failed which extended my stay at my friend's home.  I wish I could do more for one of my neighbors.  However, I do not feel comfortable asking my friend to allow him to shower at her house.  And I don't agree with using the shower at my landlord's place.  That is not a solution.  She should be offering to put us up in housing until the gas leak is cleared.  We pay her rent to live in a safe place with heating, access to water and other basic rights.  This week proved challenging.  Yet, I made a few modifications and feel decent about where I am at within the program.  Sure, I could be doing more of the homework and eliminating wine.  I need to improve on that, lol.  

Day 5 reflections

I am still not sleeping great.  That is not due to the aryuvedic lifestyle.  Instead, it is stress.  Stress of what is currently happening in my world.  I know that I am not the only one suffering but sometimes I feel that I am alone in this.  That I am overreacting.  

Surprisingly, the no caffeine was less of an issue than I thought it would be.  I have drunk coffee since I was a wee child, lol.  My grandma Rita drank coffee every day.  I remember staying at her house during summers.  Typically, we would be dropped off at her house in Iowa for two weeks every summer.  She was strict, church going, loving and consistent.  Always drinking coffee out of the blue cups.  I remember her telling me that drinking coffee would stunt my growth.  Somehow that never deterred me.  I have been a lifelong coffee drinker.  

Most of the catering folk drink energy drinks.  Multiple times I have been offered an energy drink which I always refuse.  Now they know I solely drink coffee or hot tea.  

So, to give up coffee seemed unimaginable.  Yet, so far, I have done it.  Hot tea is a great alternative.  I have an assortment of teas to choose from or I have been curating my own.  I have cinnamon sticks, ginger, bay leaves, cloves, etc.  

The lack of alcohol has been manageable.  I know there will be breaks from that.  I will not give up wine for six months (which is required of the program).  There is a trip to celebrate Brian's 19th anniversary, a trip to the Willamette Valley with Tom and possibly other days of celebration.  Tonight, for example, I am hosting a yoga happy hour.  I had been on the fence about whether or not I would be imbibing with my clientele.  I decided yesterday that I would.  I believe in solidarity and community.  As above noted, I have not been sleeping and feel that I am all alone in this, at times.  I want to participate with my community.  Plus, I am making frito pie (which I love) and gougeres--both of which are not on my approved foods list.  

We will see how that food affects my body and how I am feeling.  I know that the alcohol and spicy foods will inflame my body.  

I have been waking up and feeling energized.  Productive and capable.  That is something that I can build on and see flourish.  In addition, aryuveda focuses on digestive health.  Meaning, it is suggested to stop drinking any liquids thirty minutes before the meal, no drinking during the meal and for sixty to ninety minutes afterwards.  Seems like a long time to not drinking water, but it makes sense for gut health.  I believe long term that will truly make a difference in how I am feeling.  

I feel that it will be more of a no buy six months focusing on creating meals at home.  Only buying what is necessary to craft meals that I can eat.  It will be interesting and something that I have never done.  I have worked in the restaurant industry forever.  I am very adept at getting takeout or dining out.  I love the social aspect.  There is about five places in my rotation.  I have cultivated relationships with some of the bartenders.  I love dining out.  I will miss that aspect of my life.  However, it's only six months.  I can make it work.

More reflections as I progress.  Make it a beautiful day.

Day 1 completed and thoughts

As noted yesterday, I am embarking on a reset of my hormones and metabolism (realistically).  For too long, I tried to handle the situation believing I could do it on my own.  I would do okay for a few days and then revert to the normal routine.  I was drinking lemon water, a hot tea tincture, juicing and coffee to start my day.  

The program suggests beginning your day with hot water and sipping it.  Four to five quick sips to activate the toxins start to release.  It will be weird to not juice since I have been juicing for the last three years and maybe I will reincorporate that to make up for the no caffeine rule that I am embarking on.  Still undecided on how that is going to work out.  Alcohol, of course, will be challenging to some degree.  I am a social being.  I enjoy having wine with friends.  I know that I can do it.  I have in the past taken months off.  It has never been attractive to me to feel reliant on a substance.  Any substance.

Aryuveda teaches a holistic approach to healing the body.  Meaning, no substances.  When you break it down like that, it does make sense.  I woke up, clear headed and with a productive vibe.  Hence this early morning post as opposed to when I typically get around to writing my thoughts down.  It is something about getting a good night of sleep and not waking up feeling foggy, heavy or sluggish.  

I bought a few books and a pair of body gloves to activate the lymphatic system.  I think they arrive on Tuesday (if not before).  The gloves will be added to the regime with the body scrub.  I love the service at Havana Spa in Aurora.  It is one of the best ways to embrace self-care.  Utilize the saunas, tubs and purchase a service.  They offer a variety.  I tend to enjoy the body scrub/massage combination the most.  It takes an hour.  About thirty minutes of body scrub, quick rinse, and then return for a full body massage.  Sometimes they wash your hair.  I don't know if they are offering that since it seemed to not be offered during the pandemic.  

At any rate, I am feeling rested.  I am feeling hopeful in spite of the chaos that wants to bring me down.  It is stunning what they are attempting to do and just see how people respond/react.  And, still, there are people not paying attention.  Ignorance is bliss.  

Try to find joy and peace.  My intention is to be informed and active.  There are ways to get involved and push back on the majority of what is trying to be jammed down our throats.  It is overwhelming and challenging.  I have struggled, immensely, trying to stay positive.  I think one of my sisters' fears talking to me since she knows that I am listening to podcasts and I have projected on her multiple times about the necessity of securing plan b's for her daughter, her daughter's friends, any other woman that might need it.  I can't help it.  I am passionate about protecting women's rights.  I am concerned about the endgame of where this is heading.  Women not being able to make any choice for themselves or their healthcare.

Still, I need moments to take a break.  I need to dance and remember that there is joy in life.  I have support.  I have access to clean water, shelter and the opportunity to cook for myself.  I am thankful for that.  

Testing out new recipes will occur as well.  That will be fun.  Not using garlic or onions will be difficult.  Not going to lie.  I love garlic but it is too inflammatory for me currently.

I will continue to reflect on the changes I am going through and how the program is affecting me.  Thank you for listening & Happy Saturday!

The beauty of aging

Approaching the dreaded menopause and seeing how my body is changing.  It is not for the weak, lol.  I have been trying to manage it with some moderation of drinking wine, exercising and have looked at a few schools of thought when it comes to dealing with this.  There are many people bringing forth pills or tinctures.  In moments of desperation, I have considered checking one of them out.

Recently, I found an aryuvedic practitioner on social media.  Her reel made sense and offered solutions.  Over the course of a few days, I seemed to come across Jennifer frequently.  I attended a virtual masterclass and decided to follow up with her on a zoom call to learn more details about her program.  Six months of resetting hormones, naturally.  Healing the body by removing substances.  I drink wine and other spirits, dairy, caffeine, chocolate.  In addition, there is my love of spicy foods, garlic and onions that seem to inflame my body.  This will be an interesting six months.  

Thankfully, she is realistic and knows that women will have some setbacks.  I know that I will.  There is the celebration with Shari that is upcoming.  This year marks the 19th year since Brian died.  In some ways it feels like yesterday and others, I cannot believe it has been nineteen years.  Plus, there is an upcoming wine trip with Tom and his board members.  Both of these will happen during the six-month window.

Years ago, when I was considering adding to my yoga repertoire, I reached out to one of my mentors in Santa Fe.  Paige felt it would benefit me, greatly, if I did a forty-day cleanse.  In addition, she recommended that I did not drink for a year.  I explained to Paige that that would be unlikely.  I enjoy drinking wine.  Looking back on what she was offering, it is very similar to what I just signed up for.  I am in a different place in my life which is what is motivating me to try this.  I am not enjoying having my hormones out of whack.  Stress is making it worse.  My sleep is nonexistent most nights.  Thankfully, my symptoms are minimal at this point.  I know there are some women who experience more of them and feel terrible.  I won't bore you with my cycle only to say that is has increased in days and volume.  

I believe this aryuvedic approach will be beneficial.  I might get bored of the food and similarities.  But I know that I cannot continue on this path.  I need to feel better in my body.  

Today was the first day I practiced this lifestyle change.  Then I realized that I should have prepared for this moment.  I cannot wing it and think everything will be okay.  I did have some supplies on hand--ghee, coriander seeds, turmeric, ginger, lentils and basmati rice.  I need to better prepare to actually make a go of this.  

I am hoping that my sleep will improve and that my other symptoms will minimize and decrease.  I want to age gracefully.  The stress thing needs to be addressed.  Although it seems that daily, I am pushed to the brink on my sanity levels.  I am confident that that will improve soon.  I feel the energy shifting.

Thankful Thursday

Trying to feel some sort of goodness and minimization of the amounts of stress and anxiety that I have been experiencing for the last three and a half months.  

It is insanity.  Crushing.  Intense.  

Designed that way.  I understand this.  Still, while living in it, it is overwhelming, discouraging, debilitating.  But I see cracks in this administration.  I see that people are unifying and uniting to say no to what they are proposing.  It wasn't a mandate.  It never was.  There were more people that didn't vote for him.  They stayed home to show their displeasure for Gaza and the choices they were presented.  

How is that working out?

Egg prices have increased.  Gas prices are up.  They want to take over the Gaza Strip which is insulting to every Palestinian.  Making it so cavalier to just go in and take it over.  ***This is insanity and not supported by what people voted for.  Yes, they voted to showcase their base needs (misogyny, racism, sexism) but they also elected this man to not enter war.  They raved about how he wasn't a war hawk during his first term.

Yet, now, the mandate is force the Palestinians to relocate, rehome.  Having no sympathy/empathy for these people who have endured immense pain, torment, assault for years.  It wasn't only 10/07.  There has been a conflict since 1948.  I don't think many people understand the amount of hatred that exists between the Israeli's and Palestinians.  Then, we come in to just act like a wrecking ball.  There is no sympathy for the Palestinians in the current administration's mind.  They want to profit off of this with no regard for all of the blood that has been split.  No regard that this is their homeland.  They only look to benefit off of the beachfront property.  Again, illustrating their hatred of people, they do not understand.  

I see protest, power and unity.  The halftime show was powerful.  I recognize that many people were tuned out since they didn't understand it.  It wasn't about being entertained.  It wasn't about placating Caucasians.  They were unwilling to delve into the messaging or consider being uncomfortable with what was being delivered.  Still there is a curiosity now.  Curiosity to see what the messaging was.  Maybe a way to connect, support, solidify.

Do what feels right for you whatever that lane is.  But do not remain silent.  Do not comply.  Do not willing fully give away your rights.  Your rights to feel seen, happy and able to choose liberty.  I know that sounds hokie and silly.  I get it.  I do.  I feel that liberty has been stripped away from us.  But, underlying all of this crazy is the knowledge that there is a movement being built.  A movement rejecting what the patriarchy is trying to retain.

Be hopeful.  Be bold.  Be YOU

refuse to accept this

 Hello.  I want you to understand that this is not normal.

We cannot resist in the normal ways of the past.

Even if you refer back to Vietnam.  It is a nonissue.  People do not respond or recognize that this war was unjust.  Unwanted.  RESISTED.

Instead, people voted for a man who said he resisted war.  He pulled us out of Afghanistan.  (yes, that was his policy that Biden's)

Now, we are be assaulted.  Every front.

Why?  To wear us down.  

They know if we are overwhelmed, we cannot focus.  We cannot group together or pledge allegiance to a common goal.   

They hope we are divided.  

RESIST.

They want us to avoid their focus.  

Power in numbers.   Solidarity.  

If you don't understand the Halftime show from Kendrick Lamar, google why it is relevant.  I am being lazy right now.

He performed.  He showcased.  He reminded people about colonization, resistance and solidarity.

Wake the fuck up.  Stop choosing oligarchs who care nothing for you.

Saying yes

Year of the snake.  The year of shedding skin, shedding former beliefs and moving forward.  Moving into new spaces that typically I would avoid.  

Never in my life have I reached out to my state representative or senator.  Either I have been disengaged with what is going on or I have been fine with policies in place.  Until now.  I have not felt this attacked on multiple levels in my life.  Approaching Inauguration Day, I had anxiety.  I tried to block it out with believing that since we didn't know, maybe it would not be that bad.  Perhaps they would not do anything that they promised to do in the campaign of 2024.  In the last week, I have called my state representative and senator for the last four days.  It felt weird on the first day.  I felt that I wouldn't know what to say and it might be easier to let other people do the work.  There are so many available scripts to help make people feel more at ease.  I am so thankful for that and becoming more confident with my own words.  Telling my own story with my words and how I am impacted by these changes.  By these policies that will affect me and everyone in this country.  Perhaps by varying degrees, but we will all be affected.  

I fear for my friends that are gay and lesbian.  I know that I am at an advantage as a white, heterosexual woman.  There is some discrimination that I will not endure because of that.  However, as a woman, I do experience misogyny and sexism.  It is abhorrent and annoying.   

People have no idea what we are endorsing. 

They think this return to Christian values is the way.

What does that Indeever?  

Specifically?

White men dictate what is acceptable in society.  They choose a wife.  They *decide* to follow Christian rules.  Only having intercourse to procreate.  Super sexy.

They forbid access to pornography.  It's dirty.  

(Yet, they all watch porn)

They take.  

They refuse to believe in any prochoice effort.  

Still.  They take.

Be aware,  Purchase plan B's

Happy Monday

New month.  New energy.  Or I trying to bring in new energy.  More positive and less fear.  It is super difficult to not have anxiety, fear or concerns.  Every day, every hour, there is something coming out that is concerning.

Currently, there is a bill to have a federal abortion ban, HR 722.  There isn't a lot of media coverage on this.  They are trying to sneakily pass it without notifying the American people.  They do not care that we have had several ballot iniatives protecting women's right to healthcare.  Abortion is healthcare for those of you who are unaware.  Or the HR 899 to dismantle the department of education.  That is insanity.  Another example that they want us ignorant, uneducated and stupid.  Stupid enough to believe they are interested in protecting our rights instead of picking our pockets.  There are ways to show your anger.  Contact your representatives and senators.  Call them.  Don't email or send a letter.  Instead, flood phones with your concerns.  Make them be inundated with how displeased people are.  There is an app to help you through this--Five Calls.  Or there are other websites that will direct you to your representative's information.  I called my two senators and representative.  Their local and national office in D.C.  I encourage you to follow suit.  Feel like you are participating in this instead of feeling like you have no control over how this will continue.  Do not lose faith.  You are not alone.

There are marches on Wednesday in every Capitol City at noon, in your time zone.  Consider joining and showing strength in numbers.  Do what you can.  It is a lot.  I know.  There is some reporting that these protests will enable the president to declare martial law.  That potential is terrifying but that is what it is designed to do.  Stop us from unifying out of fear.  You are not alone.

Take time to decompress.  I must incorporate more of that.  Have a gratitude journal or get outside.  I have been overwhelmed with how much I am on my phone looking at all of the insanity that is going on.  I wake up and rush to listen to my podcasts.  I very between pod save America, I've Had It, The Rational Boomer and the Reid Out.  The I've Had it ladies are hilarious.  I have found myself walking a park or on a street and laughing out loud at some of their commentary.  I have received strange looks as a result.  Imagine encountering someone bursting out in laughter for no reason.  

Do what makes sense to you.  But don't do nothing.  If you have a community of people, share information.  If you enjoy writing, blog, write, create newsletters to share information.  If you prefer donating money instead of action, consider contributing to Indivisible.  This group is reputable and taking action.  I donated to vote blue, once, and am now in their system and receive several emails asking for money.  Maybe I would be more inclined to donate to that organization if I saw action out of them.  We need more visible representatives and senators pushing back.  Someone needs to lead or act as if they are interested in standing up for the rights of the people.  

Thank you for listening.  Until tomorrow.

How to get involved and participate

We cannot sit by idly and watch this country continue to decline.  We cannot support eliminating policies that support the LGBTQI community, or immigrants, or women.  I don't understand the endgame.  Truly it is nonsensical.  Why would he crash the stock market, jack up inflation, increase tariffs, give tax cuts to the uber rich which will be absorbed the middle class and poor?  At some point there will be no way to sustain life.  People will not be spending anything because they will not be able to afford it.  Housing costs have not gone down, the cost of eggs and gas have risen.  How does this benefit the government if no one spends money?

I have written a few letters, sent emails and made phone calls thinking these would all be effective.  Then I saw something that most officials throw mail away or delete emails.  Phone calls seem to be effective and efficient. (but only if you are a constituent of the state representative or senator that you are calling).  I refuse to believe any of that.  Contacting your representatives is effective.  Taking to the streets is effective.  Sharing information is another way to combat the misinformation age we are living in.

For example, blaming the plane crash in D.C. on DEI hires.  Not only disgusting/offensive but so ridiculous.  Not being sympathetic to the families that lost loved ones.  Instead, being so insensitive and mocking the situation.  I don't think there has been an official statement on the plane failure in Philadelphia.  

The tariffs that he chose to place on our allies will affect all of us.  He doesn't care.  Actually, admitted that the middle class would hurt and have to absorb this but in the end it would improve.  What planet does he live on?  Choosing to fuck people over to destabilize and divide us.  It is appalling.

I haven't been able to sleep.  I am stressed out.  My cycle is all over the place and I think, some of my friends think I am overreacting.  I don't think that I am.  I don't know how to explain it.  I am concerned about the willingness to sleepwalk into autocracy.  

Continue to resist and do your part.  Whatever that looks like.  Showing up for someone, sharing information, joining a protest, donating your time/resources, blogging, writing, creating content.  Don't be silent.

Continuation of the recap

I forgot a couple of things that I managed to complete in January.  Two no spend days in January.  My goal was to complete three days of no spending.  It is one way I can illustrate my unease with what is currently happening in the world.  As noted, I am overwhelmed.  Stressed.  Anxious.  Not sleeping.  Monkey mind at 3 am.  Feeling heavy, bloated, unattractive.

I recognized today that I need to take mental health days.  I need to stop watching youtube and other social media outlets.  It is challenging to not obsess over some of the chaos that is being created. I want to look away.  I do.  Then I consider all of the damage being done.  Blaming DEI for everything.  It is terrible.  And false.  Creating a narrative that only white men have the answers.  Forcing anyone who isn't a white man to dim their lights.  It is insane.  I talked to a gal today to discuss the tragedy of the plane crash in D.C.  We both agreed it was terrible that it happened and then she went on to say it was because of the military.  I corrected her that it had been blamed on DEI.  She looked at me and said--what is DEI?

This is the problem.  There is so much misinformation being spread.  She thought it was due to military negligence.  It wasn't.

It wasn't DEI either.  Instead, it was due to firing people in TSA, FAA and air traffic control.  Why isn't that being highlighted or suggested?

That is the truth.  We need to be spreading truth, not fiction.  

These policies are intended to hurt everyone and enrich the current administration.  Asking for kickbacks or cuts is not normal.  It is not about enriching people.  It is solely to increase the wealth of a select few.

Refuse to buy into this bullshit.  Consider taking three to five days a month of no spending.  No online purchases, gas, groceries, wine.  We need to consolidate and do more.  Push back.  There is so much going on.  It is challenging to focus on what all is happening.  And that is the point.  Like I noted earlier, the one girl I spoke to about the crash in DC thought that blame was on the military helicopter.  It isn't.  It wasn't.  

Be aware of your surroundings.  Trust your tuition and vibes.  Be well

I can watch the news and be furious with some of the shit that is happening right now.  

That inspires not participating in society or contributing.  I chose to stop by one of my favorite wine bars this afternoon after dropping some tomato fennel soup off to my yoga client.  

Recap of January

It started off with fear and trepidation.  Uncertainty, too.  I didn't know what to expect.  I was hopeful that maybe they wouldn't attempt to fire off all of the executive orders.  Perhaps he would be happy to avoid going to jail and focus on golf.  

Midway through the month, I struggled greatly and am now slowly finding hope.  I know it doesn't feel like it if you have been reading my recent posts.  I have been freaking out.  I fear how bad it can get.  Not only for me, but for my friends that are in the LGBTQ community, immigrants, other minorities.  A girlfriend of mine in Santa Fe mentioned that she had been physically harassed last week since she is gay.  I didn't really know how to respond to this.  Knowing that it will only get worse.

Watching the response to the tragic airplane crash in D.C.  The blatant misinformation and lies.  The lack of sympathy for the victims and their families.  I think he responded to the question of if he would visit the crash site with why?  So I can go swimming?  It's astounding.  Truly, he does not care about anyone other than himself.  

To shift the blame to D.E.I. instead of acknowledging that this occurred from firing TSA, FAA and other government agents is gross.  It creates more division and hate.  It does nothing to heal this nation.  

Returning to the hope I mentioned.  I am finding other people to link up with and build not only community but a resistance.  I called several senators today to urge them to vote no to the the RFK, jr confirmation.  I am concerned about his lack of leadership.  I want these republican senators to know that there is a ton of people that do not support this nomination.  I want them to acknowledge the implications of agreeing with this man and how he will dismantle the department of health and human services.  I left voice mails for the ones that were available.  I found one mailbox was full.  One mailbox isn't an option, and I spoke to some man in Senator Rounds office.  He allowed me to say what I wanted but it was clear that he could care less.  That is the difficult thing.  Realizing that they do not care, at all, that people do not agree with this.  My immediate response was to return to being apathetic.  It was a hesitation on my part.  I will not let them win by remaining silent.  

I wrote letters to a few Democratic representatives to thank them for their service and ability to effectively communicate and push back.  We need more of that.  

Yoga in the mornings has been fantastic.  I committed to offering a session on Monday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings.  It has been fantastic.  I will continue to offer these classes.  In addition, I hope to offer a virtual happy hour once a month with my community.  I need to find commonality to decompress, share ideas and support each other.  For example, there are companies that I am no longer supporting for their lack of commitment to D.E.I.  Target (which hits home and is such a letdown will no longer be an option to shop at for goods).  Clearly, I knew that Walmart, Hobby Lobby and a few other companies were gross and places I didn't frequent for their company policies or religious views.   I will support and spend money at Costco, Trader Joe's, Shop Rite, Kroger, Gap, Old Navy, Banana Republic to name a few.  Kroger is challenging since they do donate more money to Republican causes, and they had a strike in Denver a few years ago since they didn't want to increase the pay of their employees.  Instead, their CEO took a massive salary bump.  Think about how much money grocery stores have profited since Covid.  We were unable to go anywhere during the pandemic and grocery stores made huge profits.  

Moving into February, I am determined to find some sanity and continue to find ways to participate.  I want to build a community of people.  Stay hopeful that you are not alone.  We can overcome this.

current thoughts

In many ways, I have always chosen the alternative path.  Choosing not to be married or have children. I am reminded, daily, of that choice.  I do not regret it.  And, honestly, I believe there are other women in my age range who agree with me.  Choosing to not have children because I could choose what was best for me.

I watched my parents' struggle.  Having four daughters, providing shelter and not really liking each other.  At that point, they didn't have a choice.  It was the way to live life.  Get married, have children, buy a home and be loyal to your job.  There was no deviation from what you were supposed to do.  My mom went from being a daughter to being a mother.  Her options were restricted.  She got pregnant and became a mother.  She couldn't pursue her dreams or desires.  She had to be a mom.

Eventually, they made the right decision to divorce.  It was a hard choice.  It was atypical.  The church definitely didn't support it.  You could be ostracized and cast out of your church and community.  Yet, it was the best thing my parent did for me and my sisters.  Instead of growing up in a household where there was resentment and hurt, we were shown that there were other options.  We, as young girls, could curate the life we wanted.  

My sisters all chose a different path than me.  Some went to college.  Others went to nursing school or a trade.  Some married.  A few of my sisters chose to have children while my older sister and I refrained.

I opted for the alternative path.  Choosing to be independent and self-sufficient.  I do not regret any of the choices I have made. I have benefitted, greatly, from my decisions.  Being independent, traveling, eating all sorts of food, creating joy, choosing to not shave the back of my legs since I was 15 or ever wearing makeup.  

Yes, it's true.  I have worn make-up, fully done up, maybe five times in my life.  Yes, I have worn mascara and eye liner more.  But, not in the last 8 years.  

I only note this since the current president looks ghoulish.  He wears makeup but it isn't blended.  It makes him resemble a raccoon, at times.  I don't know.  It is something that I have been thinking about after seeing him on the news.  

I am thankful for my decision to seek the alternative path.  I do not regret not having children.  I applaud other women who have made this decision as well.  Why are we the ones to sacrifice our passion?  Why are we supposed to stay home and raise kids?  Why are we supposed to be silent as our rights are stripped from us?  

Why is there this return to "trad" wives?  What did our generation do to these kids that would influence them to think that their best option is to create a home environment and allow their husband to make all of the relevant decisions?  I am flabbergasted by these 20 year-olds who think their best life is to stay at home and raise kids.

Why are we telling women to dim their lights?  To be submissive.  It is so gross.  It won't work.  It didn't work out for several generations of women before.  We are not content being suppressed.  Being submissive.  Or told what to do.

Today

Egg prices are still at all-time highs.  Pointing it out to remind folks that this still has not been addressed.  People chose to vote this current administration in.  Overlooking their plans to reconfigure society.  He said he didn't know anything about project 2025.  

Clearly, he wouldn't lie.  Politicians never lie.  

And now, we see the truth of this administration.  They fire people at will.  They gaslight daily.  They are attempting to strip us of our rights.  Rights that have been fought for and secured.  They aim to hurt people.  Children, disabled, poor.  They don't care if they take away your access to funds.  

I watched the current press secretary try to blame it on the former administration.  Typical gaslighting.  Politics, as usual.  Just know.  The egg prices were a campaign promise that people voted on.  They chose the price of eggs and gas over being decent human beings.  

I am concerned for my friends that are gay or lesbian.  I fear for any transgender person as there are some questioning their identities.  It appears to be a younger phenomenon than me.  Still, they deserve the right and opportunity to live their best lives instead of being ostracized, mocked, put back in the closet.  I fear for immigrants and what they endure.  I work alongside some of the hardest working people who happen to be Venezuelan.  They show up, smile and hustle.  They came here, legally, to avoid a terrible situation in their country.

I fear for women.  I fear for myself.  I have never felt vulnerable entering a restaurant by myself until recently.  I consider if I will feel welcome entering the establishment as a solo woman.  If the vibe isn't welcoming, I leave.  I do not intend to welcome any bullshit into my atmosphere.  

I encourage all women to stock up on plan b's.  

The current regime is relentless.  They will not stop at taking away our healthcare.  They want us pregnant and taking care of children.  Not working.  In the homes.  Sacrificing our dreams.  They will eliminate contraception in addition to allowing us to make decisions regarding our bodies.  They do not value you.  They want to act as if they are our protectors.  They are not.  Do not forget this.  

Collectively, we can stand together.  We are all witnessing women stand up to this dictatorship.  Mother Pence.  Kamala.  Michelle.  Caroline Kennedy.  The woman who stood up against Hegseth.  Several others.  Continue to push back and move forward.  We, the people, deserve to move forward.  To protect our rights.  To support equality and reject theocracy.  

I am finding my voice and way to protest.  What is your role in this?  How can you help?  Monetarily.  Joining a mutual aid group.  Creating art.  

Disrupt.  Be loud and bold!

Finding joy?

Cat videos are the best.  

This past week has been chaotic.  Designed that way to distract, overwhelm and destroy pushing back.  It is nonstop bullshit.  Overwhelming shock and awe.  

I am trying to sort through the crazy and stay sane.  It isn't easy.  Believe me, I get sucked into the echo chamber and react.  I don't know what to believe.  

I believe there are many people, like me, who want to push back.  To stay healthy, have access to facts, clean water, fair housing, and food.  To know what I am putting in my body and feel safe doing it.  Somehow, we are trying to eliminate access to these things.  We want people sick, depressed, poor.  Why?  So they will give in to what they are trying to achieve.  Blind walking into a fascist state.  Where you have no rights.  No opportunity to improve your life.  No access to education.  Just accepting the shit sandwich that they provide you.  It's nuts.

They hide behind religion.  Using the cross to indicate that they are bringing god's message.  Yet, they are eliminating programs to help the poor, needy, children.  Isn't that what Christianity is all about?  Isn't that a tenet of religion?  To be welcoming to everyone.  

Instead, they are completely creating chaos to instill fear and compliance.  Refuse to be compliant.  Recognize this for what it is.  Do not lie down and think this is the only way.  Know that you are not alone.  That there are many other people who do not agree with this.  That there is a way through this.  Find joy and gratitude instead of rolling over.  Also, eventually, there will be people standing up for themselves.  Yes, there are a lot of uneducated people that continue to support this man inspite of how it affects their lives.  How do you support someone who wants to get rid of medicaid?  Snap?  Or Head Start?  These programs are in place to help people.  Isn't that why we pay taxes?

No, I am not supporting socialism.  I am supporting being a human being.  Yes, we pay taxes that support a number of things.  Infrastructure, military, social security, etc....that all seems fine.  But when we want to support kids, programs for veterans, poor, or sick, we want to eliminate them.  How does this seem right?

I am struggling.  I do find joy.  Knowing I have a good support system and people in my life.  

Thankful Thursday

I am thankful for participating in no spend day number two and realizing I could improve on it.  I worked an event yesterday where I was unable to spend for 10.5 hours.  That helps minimize opportunity to purchase items.  Yet, I drove to the event.  For a full day of no spend, I think I should eliminate transportation, too.  

Still, I avoided spending and want to complete three monthly.  More, if possible.  I believe I can fulfill this pledge.  I am thankful for my support network.  It continues to evolve and grow.  I found out, yesterday, that one of my coworkers was born in a small village in Africa.  Her father was a minister, and they spent a fair amount of time traveling.  She is transcribing letters from her parents' past.  There was a love story between a European woman and her African husband.  She was given $10,000 when she was 35 years old as was one of her sisters.  Her mom asked them what they would do with the money.  Her sister said pay off debt while Martha said--take dad to Africa.  I loved that.  She had two small children at the time.  My coworker, Tyson, asked if she took her kids with her.  She said, no.  I left them home with my husband.  I also loved that, haha.  

Access to clean water and being warm.  I am thankful for that as well.  Always.  

I am thankful that I do not need prescription pills at this point in my life.  Super thankful for my health.  Health is directly tied to wealth.  Only to remind you that the current president just wrote an executive order to reverse prescription pills being lowered.  Basically, he is screwing over everyday Americans in favor of corporations.  It's nuts.  Sort through the chaos and focus on what is happening.  There is an attempt to distract and divide people.  Meanwhile, they are doing some shady ass shit to create more costs for working people.  Slashing regulations that protect our air quality, water, emergency services, healthcare.  Do not sit back and watch this happen.  We need to stay engaged and protect what rights we still have.  

Be loud.  Do not agree to take on more shit because you think there is nothing you can do.  And try to stay joyful.  That is something that I am struggling with.  It is easy to want to stay in bed and decrease interactions with people.  I do not have kids, but I have nieces, nephews and my friends have kids.  I want these children to thrive in a world that does not force a handful of beliefs of what is the acceptable way to live.  They should have the rights that I had, at least.  Access to making decisions regarding my body.  Being able to go to college, get an education and choose the unconventional lifestyle that I have always led.  I am so thankful for my life.

Day three

Gas prices are holding steady.  Eggs, too.  Soon there will be tariffs in place.  Possibly a remand on the federal income tax which I would applaud.  However, that will be placed on us through the tariffs.  Buying anything will incur a tax of 30%.  Taking on more responsibility of the debt.  Prices of gas and eggs will increase.  Lucky us.

The latest rage is that ICE will be able to enter schools, hospitals and churches.  All sanctuaries of the past.  All places that were held up in the eyes of the church and public.  Oh, how the mighty has fallen.  There seems to be no bottom.

Women seem to want to be resistant.  Mother Pence.  Kamala.  Hillary.  A bishop that delivered a sermon that asked the man for compassion for LBGTQ people.  Americans who are scared and confused.  She spoke of it, calmly, and compassionately.  All of the family members and the V.P. seemed indifferent and dismissive.

The idiot in charge took to social media to attack this bishop.  To say she was a hater, leftist and boring.  It remains, ridiculous to me, that the religious people stand behind this hypocrite.  They repeat his lies.  Justify his behavior.  Dismiss his divineness.  Support him.  They are reaping benefits of him in office.  They can grift, thieve, take.  

Then, I watched this repulsive video on youtube.  A video made by a fool and a comic.  A used-up comedian who is trying to be relevant.  This woman, somehow, convinced ABC to put her back on air after a hiatus.  About midway through her rebirth, she went on a racist rant.  I don't recall the details nor care to find out why she was fired from her show.  They renamed, regrouped, continued.  

Now she sidled up to some unknown rapper to produce some song about where we are today.  I don't want to call more attention to it.  It's awful.  There is nothing to be learned or admired by viewing it.  Instead, it affirms this call to arms by the right.  Patriarchy.  Divisiveness.  Owning guns.  Using guns.  Flipping people off. Being aggressive & unapologetic.  

I want to put my head in the stand.

I want to look at sunflowers and be happy.

It doesn't work.  At some point, we must acknowledge our part in this debauchery.  This abuse of the government.  Accepting bribes.  Lying.  Dividing.  

Grow up.  Be accountable.  Build a community and feed that group.  Refuse to sit at the kids table.  

Continuing

I don't apologize for my post yesterday.  This chaos and flooding the zone will continue.  Taking over the canal, Greenland, renaming the Gulf of Mexico.  Avoiding helping people.  Not lowering costs.  Wasn't that what people voted for?  Lowering costs of eggs, gas, inflation.  Making a more of a populist movement.  Moving forward to aid the working class.  

Instead, today they reversed the $35 cap for insulin.  That definitely helps senior citizens who voted for the current politician.  Raise the cost of necessary medicine.  Reverse DEI policies.  Withdraw from the Paris Accords. Eliminate the focus on climate change.  What in the world are we leaving for kids today?  Truly.  Scorched earth.  No access to water.  Blade Runner on Steroids.  Only a reminder....yesterday, they declared that they would explore Mars.  Mars to populate for the oligarchs who sat behind the inauguration yesterday.  The men who want to dictate how we live.  Destroy this planet.  Who cares?  There are options with their space ships and funding from the government.  Who is the welfare queen now???

2024 was hot.  Really hot in several places around the world.  Then we watched as hurricanes ravaged the east coast.  Affecting places that were not in the path of the storm.  People begging for aid which they received.

2025 fires in L.A.  Ravaging parts of the city.  Suddenly politicizing the crisis and demanding tax cuts to ensure aid for people affected by the fires.  

What? 

Really?  You would consider conditioning aid for political purposes.  California pays in an exorbitant amount in taxes.  Those taxes support red states that are unable to care for their own.  Or provide dollars to their constituents.  Why is this even an issue?  Maybe California should refuse to pay their federal taxes in if aid is not offered to them?  Why wouldn't they?  How can this even be considered?  

What would that mean?  The majority of red states would falter and decline.  

They choose to eliminate education.  They choose to eliminate focus on climate change.  They choose to privatize health care.  Clearly, that has helped.  All of these decisions have aided the common person in pursuing their best life.  

Flooding the zone

Well, we are now here.  Now with the new regime.  Some are hopeful, optimistic, confrontational.  Really confrontational.  You won.  What is the point in provoking fights with others?  Are you ready to tackle some of the policies you ran on.  Lowering costs of eggs, food, inflation.  What will you do to continue to create jobs and help the working class?  Oh, that's right.  Nothing.  Instead, you focus on tax cuts for the billionaires and compiling your cabinet with unqualified people. If you watch the confirmation hearings, all they do is deny, deflect, and refuse to answer the question.  They repeat the question and then refer to the lord and savior as their justification as to their answer.  This country was founded on a separation of church and state.  We rebelled against Great Britain to ensure that separation.  Why is there a push to return to the oligarchy of past times (in Europe)?  The United States has firmly relied on a separation of church and state.  We should proceed in that tradition.  

Others are fearful, unsupported and uncertain about how to proceed.  I avoided listening to the inauguration and opted for an inauguration focusing on kittens and puppies.  I wanted my mind to be fresh and uncluttered.  It helped me manage my morning.  Focus on yoga, clients, and upcoming tasks.  

Still, I couldn't resist the urge to check in on you tube after the fact.  It reported that our leader didn't place his hand on the bible while swearing in.  Classy.  Typical.  Shows how religious he is.  

His wife looked like the Hamburglar.  What was with her outfit and hat?  Was it ward off being affectionate?  The other leader gave the universal heil sign to welcome the crowd.  When did we return to the 1930's Europe?  Or the 1950's for that matter?  At which point women couldn't vote, own a home, own a credit card or be independent.  Women had no autonomy.  Sounds like a place we should return to....

Cost of a dozen eggs at King Sooper's was a mix, ranging from 6.99 to 9.99.  Trader Joe's eggs run out by 10 am on two different visits.  Their eggs also increased, not as dramatically.  $4.99 for a dozen eggs.  Gas for the mid-range pump is $3.25 (minimally).  Keep in mind in Colorado, you need to avoid filling up your vehicle with the 85-gas grade as it fries the catalytic converter.  And in European cars is a big no-no.  They chose to pardon 1500 J6 prisoners.  Apparently, they were accused, incorrectly.  Tomorrow will bring more chaos, and the cost of eggs will increase.  Super excited to see where this ends up.  I am sure that I missed several things that were of importance and interest today.  I refuse to get inundated with the chaos.  I did manage to enjoy a lovely day with my friend, Brie.  Lunch at Pepper, wine at Postino and dinner at home.  I hope to stay safe and continue to reflect on the state of things.  

New habits and other ideas for a successful 2025

It's been 19 days since 2025 began.  In those nineteen days, I have managed to incorporate a few new habits.  I wake up, earlier, and either teach an a.m. yoga class or perform sun salutations.  There is a tonic I drink five days a week.  Cumin, fennel seed, coriander and hot water.  At times, I add citrus and ginger.  Mostly dependent on if I have those supplies available.  

Oil pulling has been an inconsistent habit for me.  Better recently.  At least five times a week.  I think it is ok to take a few days off during the week to take a break.  It is natural.  This past week, I experimented with soup day.  Meaning eating soup for breakfast, lunch and dinner.  Specifically, a soup you can blend and make lighter.  This enables detoxing the body and resetting your metabolism.  I felt incredible after I tried it out the first time on Tuesday.  I believe it would be beneficial to perform soup day on the same day weekly.  Unfortunately, I need to experiment with this to find the best day.  This Tuesday, I have the happy hour class which will not be a soup day.  There are caterings throughout the week which challenges eating soup all day and I have a lunch planned which further conflicts with soup day.  

I prepped a roasted cauliflower curry soup and another lentil soup.  I should be okay for a few weeks to do soup days and see how I feel.  I think a black bean soup is approachable and another curry.  I like the idea of using spices to enhance the flavors and minimize reliance on dairy or cheese to enjoy the soup.  

My ankle continues to pester me.  I have been using kinesiology tape to assist with the discomfort.  Soaking and icing is also decreasing the discomfort.  Epsom salt, apple cider vinegar, baking soda all seem to alleviate and soothe the joint.  Eventually, I will return to the sports medicine clinic to have my ankle assessed.  Maybe corrective exercises will aid me.  I have been strengthening my ankle with balance poses in yoga.  I am trying to strengthen and stretch.  I want to avoid surgery, arthritis or other debilitating injuries.

No spend day is another fantastic idea that I came across on Instagram.  The goal is to not spend any money for an entire day.  I have completed one, so far, in January.  I believe it is possible to achieve this once a week.  I have so many resources at home to minimize spending money.  Coffee at home.  The body scrub brush to avoid going to the korean spa.  Or the pumice stone for my feet to reduce calluses.  Walking to meet friends instead of driving.  

New year.  New focus and habits.  Any suggestions on habits or ways to achieve these?  If you want to join me for a virtual yoga session, contact me here on via email.  I am determined to offer that class (6:30 am, mst) every Monday, Wednesday & Thursday regardless of rain, snow or shine.  Perhaps this will deter me from overindulging with wine..... 

Upcoming Class

Happy Saturday!  Consider joining the yoga happy hour class.  The ultimate alternative happy hour.  True there is wine and tequila (typical happy hour essentials).  And there is yoga to begin this happy hour.  We build up a collective heat, energy and vibe.  Afterwards we celebrate community by enjoying food and drink.  I will be providing a Moroccan chickpea stew as the main for this happy hour.  Healthy, hearty and filling.  There will be other snacks, too.  I believe Kerp dip (also known as crack.  It is such a good dip.  addictive).  I am still deciding on the third dish.  It might be vegetables and hummus to offset the heaviness of the Kerp dip.  Or maybe a fruit salad of sorts. I don't know.  I have a few days to figure it out.

Contact me on gmail for additional information.  I look forward to seeing you Tuesday night!  Disregard the date of the 14th.   I moved it to the 21st due to scheduling conflicts for some of my clients.  

Canterbury Tales

I remember reading this classic book while in high school.  It was part of the mandatory reading list.  Chapters were dedicated to characters back stories and development.  There was an array of citizens in the book.  The Miller's wife, Wife of bath, the Friar's tale.  I remember reading it and being surprised by the hypocrisy of some of the virtuous professions that were behaving in the most abysmal ways.   The friar's tale for example.  Using the church to receive bribes and be absolved.  Or, the Pardoner's Tale.  He had syphilis.   Hmmmm...how do you contract syphilis without some sort of personal irresponsibility.  I was raised in a Catholic household.  Reading this book affirmed, for me, the ridiculousness of the confessional.  I knew several people that were terrible people who attended church.  They would confess their sins and go about their day.  And, tithe, of course.  10% of their income would go to the church.  I believe in forming a community, supporting them and being accountable.  The idea that you can beat your wife/husband or kids, be a raging alcoholic, cheat/steal/take and then go to church and confess, is ridiculous.  Confessing does not make you a good person if you continue to behave in this manner.  

Perhaps the book is banned now.  The banned books are the best.  If you want to really create anxiety in your life, read the Handmaid's Tale and Parable of the Sower.  Both were written by women and are relevant for our current state of affairs.  

 We are now returning to that time.

Not in jest or supposition.  I have been listening to the senatorial confirmation hearings.  Multiple times, there is a reference to being saved or to God in general.  Blatantly avoiding answering the question and instead saying--I am thankful for the lord and savior.  I won't answer this question, but I will point out that I believe in god.  Hypocritical and absurd.  And we are allowing it to happen.  All of these yo-yo's are lying to be confirmed into their position.  Similar to the supreme court.  The conservatives lied to be appointed and then proceeded to fuck 50% of this population over.  They want women to return to the kitchen.  That is our value.  To get fucked over and then raise the kids.  There is no value in us as human beings outside of birthing kids [chattel].  Why do people who live in rural areas or small towns hate women?  Why do we not build each other up to see more of the world?  Experience other cultures, share in culture and experiment with different foods?

I thought we were founded on a separation of church and state.  Why are we willingly walking back to this time of inferiority?  Where women or any person of color had no rights?  Did you see that Oklahoma (magnificent state that it is) is now making it more difficult to get divorced?  Or that there will soon be a requirement to determine your career choice out of high school.  College (which is becoming more and more expensive).  Trade school which is also expensive. Or the military.

Oklahoma is forcing kids to sign up for the military.  To be bait for upcoming wars.  Which we are baiting with the outrageous talk of taking back the Gulf of Mexico, annexing Canada as the 51st state, reclaiming the Panama Canal or taking over Greenland.  Where will we have bodies to use for these fights?  Oh, that's right.  Being forced into military conscription or taken away from your family (mass deportation, LBGTQ family, or being unable to care for your kids).  

Then, returning to the reason for this post.  Just say you have seen the light and been saved.  Suddenly, you are absolved and no longer required to justify your asinine ways.  Listening to these hearings, is nuts.  None of them answers.  With the exception of Rubio.  Maybe he does.  However, the rest of them, are not.  They deflect.  They defend their deflection.  Then they ramble.  Why are we enabling this?  Why are we agreeing to return to the company town or where every aspect of our livelihoods are controlled by our bosses?

Read.  Read more.  Look at history and choose not to return to it.

New habits and routines

I have been drawn more towards the ayruvedic agenda recently.  More spices, movements to encourage lymphatic drainage and meditation.  

Ginger, turmeric and cinnamon are staples in my pantry.  I have increased bulk spices--fennel, cumin, coriander, paprika.  I feel I am benefitting from having an assortment of spices to aid in meal prep, digestion and feeling better overall.  There is a tonic that I make five days a week.  Hot water with cumin, coriander and cumin.  It is considered a detox tea, and I have enjoyed drinking it throughout my day.  I found this practitioner that has wonderful suggestions to incorporate more ayruvedic practices into my daily life.  She had a post about taking one day a week and only eating soup.  Soup for breakfast, lunch and dinner.  I was intrigued.  And knew I would be able to manage that task.  I have soup from Tom, and I have dabbled with soup prep in the last few years.  I chose to make today my soup day of the week.  We shall see how I feel.

It is recommended to eat a soup that can be blended.  In addition, I felt a soup without dairy would be preferred.  Soup day is about detoxing, de-bloating, feeling lighter.  I love baked potato soup.  It is amazing and super heavy.  I cannot eat three meals of baked potato soup.  I had a lentil and potato soup in my freezer that seemed the perfect soup to start with.  We shall see how it works out over the next month.  I will commit to testing out four consecutive weeks with a soup day.  I think a potato leek for next week sounds delicious.  

I hope to practice no spend days during the month, too.  I think three is doable.  Yesterday, unintentionally, I did have a no spend day.  Partially due to having a productive morning and a catering.  I didn't have time to purchase anything yesterday, lol.  I will take credit for the day.  

I have two body brushes--one dry and one to use in the shower.  Inspired by my body scrubs at the Korean spa that I have been missing.  I need to schedule an appointment and relish in that service.  My skin feels amazing after that treatment.  In the meantime, I have brushes to use myself.  Typically, I use the wet brush.  New year.  New opportunities.  I see the dry brush being thrown into the rotation.  

Success comes from your daily life and how you choose to handle your day.  I am not going to lie.  I love meeting up with friends, sharing food and wine.  I would love to be paid to drink wine and travel.  Yesterday, I noted that to one of my colleagues at the catering company.  He agreed.  That would be a wonderful way to live.  It's all the hustling to make the life a reality.  

To balance out my hedonistic ways, I must incorporate soup day, lymphatic drainage, more walking and strength training.  That is truly the lesson of this.  Try something different to experience new results and opportunities.

Monday Motivation

Tackle those tasks that you procrastinate first thing in the morning.  It is the only way I am able to get this done, lol.

I have known about a business filing that was mandatory for the last fourteen months.  My CPA notified me that I would be required to file this new thing.  I looked at when I had to do it and it said I had all of 2024 to file the paperwork.  Then it got postponed due to an injunction.  I knew that deadline loomed til today, but I was unwilling to actually sit down and do it.  I considered allowing someone else to file it for me and pay $200 which is absurd since it was not nearly as awful as I thought it would be.  It all comes down to avoiding things I don't like.  Admin.  Spreadsheets.  Filing paperwork.  I really do not enjoy these tasks and it isn't that I don't know how to do it.  I have convinced myself that I am not good at it.  I delay, delay, delay.  Today, I forced myself to handle it, first thing.  I have a busy day and the last thing I wanted to do was create a situation where I was rushing.  Believe me, I would create more anxiety trying to get it done by the end of the day.

Sunrise yoga is now offered every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday morning at 6:30 am, mst.  It is a virtual class.  Unless you are in Denver and want to come over to my apartment.  I will have coffee and maybe juice.  Anyways, it is a 45-minute session.  Some days we will focus on breathwork.  Other days it will be sequencing.  But it will always be fun.  Email me at tastelifeyoga@gmail.com for additional information and to request a link to join the class.  

This week will be a detox/cleanse week.  Last year I managed to participate in Dry January.  This year, I couldn't make myself do it.  There is too much chaos for me to not enjoy a glass of wine here and there.  I am committed to relying on being positive and less reactive to all that is being released around me.  I do enjoy listening to podcasts--Rational Boomer, Pod Save America, I've Had it--to name a few.  I have eliminated a few to stay out of the rabbit hole.  I get inundated with the uncertainty and deep dive into the crazy.  I cannot help it (at times).  I need to minimize my exposure to some of it.  It is overwhelming.  

Take time to optimize your day.  Your time is money.  Do not take it for granted.  Until tomorrow.....

Grateful Thursday

I am at a loss for words today.  I want to express gratitude for my life--having access to clean water, a roof over my head, food to eat.  I feel weird saying this as many people are fleeing their homes to avoid the fires in southern California.  It looks apocalyptic.  Truly dystopian and horrifying.  I am not a fan of snowstorms that shut down my state, or hurricanes that ravage people in those communities.  But fire is something else.  Truly terrifying.  Plus, the winds are devastating other areas in L.A.  Sending so many healing vibes to the people of Los Angeles.  I have reached out to my friends who are there and thankfully, safe currently.   

This is another reminder how important community is.  Hug those around you who you value and love.  I listened to my favorite podcast this morning.  They were discussing being fed up with checking out at the market and being inundated with--do you want to donate to the cause of the month.  They were considering doing self-check-out to avoid the interaction and saying no to the request.  [There is a prompt for the donation request in self-check-out as well.  It is less peer pressure to hit the button denying that request]

At any rate, after chatting with their guest, they reconsidered.  He noted how disconnected we are since Covid.  We don't trust people we don't know.  We choose to be alone to avoid interactions and he noted how damaging this is.  Why not go through the check-out line and engage with the person who is standing behind it?  Make an observation of the person.  Maybe they have a beautiful smile, gorgeous earrings, or something else to comment on.  I agree.  Let's return to decency and kindness.

I am thankful for my community of people and that it is growing.  My classes this week did not take off, but I offered them yesterday and today.  I chose to do sun salutations before meditating.  In addition, I found my dry brush to aid in exfoliation, lymphatic drainage, etc.  Showered.  Moisturized and am now safe and warm in my apartment.  I see a nap in my future as my sleep has been terrible the last week.  I cannot turn my brain off.  Some anxiety of what might come and ways to navigate the chaos.  Reminding myself that I have many things to be thankful for and people in my life who support me.

Also reminding myself to follow every crazy thread of the next four years.  I know there will be endless confusion and chaos.  It's designed that way.  Instead, I will hold on to my people and choose the threads that are not in my face.  Those are the terrifying ones.  Federal abortion bans.  Restricting contraception.  Reminding people that a woman's place in the home....this is the most offensive sentence spoken.  My role is not to be chattel.  Keep looking at what is there and avoid the distractions. 

I am thankful, today, that I was told I could be whatever I wanted to be.  I could choose to be independent, capable, fierce.  

Weekly Classes

 I am now offering virtual classes every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings at 6:30 am, MST.  45 minutes of movement, breathwork and fun.  I will change it, daily.  I prefer having variety instead of the same sequence.  Easily I become bored, distracted and uncommitted to what I am trying to achieve.  Please contact me if you are interested in attending one of these virtual classes.

Today, I began with a post about it on instagram to remind people of the a.m. class.  Then I did sun salutations before settling into my dry sauna blanket and meditating.  This will be my morning routine until people attend the classes.  And it will happen.  I believe it.  I must commit and make this a habit.

The affirmation is the reminder that success comes from our daily habits.  In the past, I have made time to meet up with friends for coffee, walking a park, yoga classes, wine lunches, etc.  Looking back, I have not had much structure.  It has always been very open and flexible.  In hindsight, I think due to its flexibility I have not moved forward with my business as much as I would have liked to.  I have allowed distraction to keep me in a similar pattern.  Relying on other jobs to supplement my income instead of creating more opportunities to teach, build community, offer retreats.  I want to make my business more of a focus this year.  

There will be virtual classes during the evening, too.  I have not committed to what days or times, yet.  I want to take small steps to increase my likelihood of building this habit.  It takes 21 days to build a habit.  Possibly offering pm classes in February most likely.  Barre classes, HIIT yoga and mashups of the two styles of fitness classes.  Occasionally, I offer, restorative classes in the evenings.  Only seems a nice way to decompress from your day and settle into your nights.  I have been hosting a virtual class on Sunday mornings for the last few years.  I call it, Slowdown Sunday.  45 minutes of stretchy yoga.  A few sun salutations (sometimes).  Mostly focusing on holding poses, breathwork and stretching.  

If you have suggestions on other class offerings that speak to you, please contact me.  Or, if you would like to do a private session, virtually or in Denver, contact me.  I am here to create a class for you.  To customize the session specifically to suit your needs.  I love teaching yoga and building my community.  Too often we isolate ourselves from opportunities to meet people as we age.  This is a safe space open to everyone.  

Happy Hump Day!  I hope you are enjoying the new energy of 2025 and crafting ways to make this your best year yet.  Cheers!

New Classes and other ways to take control in the upcoming year of uncertainty.

It's a new year with new focus.  I will be offering yoga classes every Monday, Wednesday and Thursday mornings at 6:30 am, MST.  Forty-five minutes of stretchy goodness.  Let's build this habit together!

I will focus on breathwork, movement and sequencing.  Some days more strength.  Others stretchier.  I believe in changing it up to keep things fresh.  

Today in an attempt to reset my energy, I cleaned my apartment and am de-cluttering.  Finally finishing up tasks, moving items I no longer use and saging my space.  These are things that I encourage everyone to do.  Let's start this year in the best possible way.  Make it work for you.

I have felt helpless and apathetic towards the political system after the most recent election results.  I am still questioning how it was called so quickly, almost immediately.  It does not matter.  It was called and I will gear up for what comes next.  Chaos.  Confusion and figuring out how to keep control of myself and my emotions.  

In that vein, I am unsubscribing to companies that I do not agree with politically.  I will no longer support companies that donate to causes that affect me and my rights.  There are companies, of course, that I have never frequented or have any intention of ever supporting.  Hobby Lobby.  Walmart.  Chick Filet to name a few.  

However, I was surprised, learning that some of the companies I do frequent dumped so much money into the race this year.  I broke up with Sierra Trading Company which saddened me since I love buying Saucony shoes from them.  I have purchased yoga attire, as well.  But no longer.  I will rely on the good unites us app to consider where to shop and spend my money.  I hope to try to grocery shop, primarily, at Trader Joe's as our interests align.  I need to figure out another bigger market to shop for other things.  I don't think I am interested in shopping at Sprout's anymore.  Especially now, since I just looked up Sprout's on the app and know it contributes to the republican party.   The party that hates women and all other minorities.  

I needed to find some laughter and joy.  I think listening to some of the podcasts I was listening to was making it worse.  The uncertainty of what looms and how it will affect everyone.  I stumbled onto this podcast called I've Had it.  I love it.  I find myself laughing out loud as I walk around outside.  People look at me funny when I burst into laughter, but I cannot help myself.  It is great.  These two women from Oklahoma are a riot and say, most everything, that I think and agree with especially the hypocrisy of religion.  How judgmental and ridiculous these folks are...Give it a go.  They offer two episodes, weekly, for about 45 minutes.  Or check out their daily dose which is anywhere from 10-18 minutes long.  When I drove back from Santa Fe last week, I listened to multiple episodes.  Entertaining and insightful.  

Continue learning, questioning and living your life.  Mostly, lean into educating yourself and reading.  Don't accept that you are unable to change or improve your situation.  That is my takeaway.

Be well~

2025

Here is to an amazing new year.  I am absolutely ready for new energy, opportunities and travel.  No more meh year of 2024.  I feel that since 2020 each year has been its own type of shit sandwich to a certain degree.  2020 was a pandemic.  Loads of fun to reflect on.  2021 was a smidge better than 2020.  At least some restrictions were lifted and travel returned domestically.  2022 offered more yoga opportunities, growth and I met Tom.  An improvement over the former two years.  2023 was ok.  Not as solid as 2022.  I started getting depressed about my lack of travel.  That feeling has remained with me.  I never knew how much I relied on travel to provide happiness.

And I have been traveling.  To Santa Fe, Texas, Kansas, Arizona.  I am not traveling at the rate I would like to and that is the issue.  Tom and I have not taken a trip out of the country which is further depressing me.  Part of it is due to timing and health concerns.  Thankfully, we managed to make great strides in his health journey this part year.  We are currently waiting to have a consult for an endoscopy before his hip surgery can be arranged.  It is another example of why people are frustrated with health care in this country.  Some places won't take his insurance and now we will have to have it scheduled in Albuquerque which adds another layer of challenge.  I remain hopeful that he will have the hip replacement by March at the latest.  Fingers crossed.

We have discussed going to Mexico, Puerto Morelos, to be exact.  Five to seven days on the beach sounds terrific.  We just have not been able to do it because of health concerns until this year.  Or we have considered Las Vegas or Miami.  However, I think we will be focusing on western cities/states this year.  

Health, healing and communication will be focuses for me this year.  I have some things I need to release and let go of that I have carried with me throughout my life.  I am understanding how carrying that emotional baggage with me from relationship to relationship is a habit I need to break.  I need to have better coping mechanisms to deal with stress and conflict.  It is never fun to take a hard look at yourself and realize that there are things that need to change to improve yourself, life, relationship. Mostly, I want to be better and focus on what truly makes me happy.  End living in mediocrity and thrive.  

How will I be able to do that?  By making some small changes, daily.  Creating new habits and patterns which will inspire new energy and opportunity.  I am skipping dry January this year and changing up that focus.  I intend to be moderate to eliminate some of the crazy episodes I create for people in my life to contend with.  It can be challenging.  I strive to create new patterns, habits and routines to elevate my life.

Thank you for listening to my 2025 hopes of new energy and possibility.  It is time, for me, to make some changes to live my best life.