I’m Not Fit Yet – But I Sure As **it Plan To Be

image credit - Pinterest

“Healthy is an outfit that looks different on everybody”

— Anonymous

So I Googled Fitness and about 1,600,000,000 results popped up.   I wonder why we feel so overwhelmed….  I think the interwebs know we have a severe case of FOBO (fear of better options).  I say use it to explore and learn and then get out in the real world and try some stuff.   I did and here they are!   As with all exercise and eating programs you should ALWAYS consult your personal physician.

*this is not advice*

Fleet Feet Sports – I went in looking for a new pair of sneakers and I walked out with a new hobby.  You’ll be impressed with their personal fit process but you’ll also be impressed with their personal attention and services.   They are locally owned and operated and you can find yours through the link.  My local store offers an array of running programs from beginner walking all the way through advanced training for marathoners.  I’ll be running my third 5 K this year in April!  Yay!

TRX Training – This was offered through my local Fleet Feet Sports store.  When I saw it I was super curious about it and when I saw it in action I was NOT sure this was something I could do.   This is essentially pretty bad ass bodyweight exercise.  It develops strength, balance, flexibility and core stability simultaneously.  I’m here to say that I have been able to do SO much more than I thought possible.  There are a ton of movements for beginner – advanced and anything can be modified for any level.  I can literally feel myself getting stronger and I’ve seriously never sweated so much in my life. 

Personal Trainer Food – My friend asked me if I wanted to check it out and after I checked it out online I was all like ABSO!  If you Googled lately you KNOW that everyone and everything is 80/20!  This means the key to weight-loss is 80% diet and 20% exercise.  One of the top quotes I repeat to myself on the daily is “You Can’t Out-Train a Bad Diet”.  That’s where Personal Trainer Food comes in.  When you think of “diet” food you think hungry, deprived, measuring, packing, pain in the ass.  That is NOT this.  This program was amazing in every way.  Convenient-Balanced-Fresh-Portioned-Delicious.  The food was so good in fact that a few nameless family members swiped a number of meals.  Also never before have I loved eating veggies so much – the blends were AHmazing!  The plan is easy to follow in that really all you need to do is choose your meal and pop it in the microwave.  It doesn’t get any easier than that and the microwave time was always on point.  I hate when you’re trying to heat something up and it’s never the time it says on the package.  Personal Trainer Food is NOT for you if you’re not busy and have all the time in the world to measure and weigh food that you really don’t want to eat.  There are plans for every budget and level.   (I received a one month program courtesy of Personal Trainer Food).

Yoga – I’m late to this party BUT I’m SO glad I joined.  Again, I take Yoga through my local Fleet Feet Sports store.  I told you Fleet Feet was amazing!  Yoga is for EVERYONE.  I repeat EVERYONE!   And if you don’t believe that – check this out http://people.com/bodies/plus-size-yogi-who-overcame-binge-eating-and-depression-is-inspiring-others/ Yoga challenging but at the same time relaxing.  I’m currently doing Vinyasa which is so much more than the described “sequence of poses”  It’s strengthening, working my core and improving my balance and flexibility.  Over time taking yoga has improved my running and stamina exponentially.  Yoga nights help me shake off stress and are now the best night’s sleep I get all week.  It’s everything you never knew you always need it.

Massage – I don’t think massage is thought of as much as a luxury anymore as much as it is body maintenance.  Some scientific studies say massage improves circulation, boosts immunity, improves flexibility and reduces stress.  I say yes to ALL of that and now I say yes yes because it’s more affordable than ever.  I have a monthly membership with Massage Envy.  It’s affordable and I love that there are locations in almost every state.  Plus I know what I’m walking into – I don’t think I need to elaborate on that one! 

So *CHEERS* to you if you’re sticking with a self- improvement program OR starting one.  It’s never too late to give yourself the gift of self-care.  You can’t take care of anyone if you don’t take care of yourself! 

Feb 5th is National Wear Red Day – How Technology is Making a Difference #VZWBuzz

“Take care of your body, it’s the only place you have to live.”

— Jim Rohn

In participation with the Verizon Wireless #VZWBuzz Influencer program- I’m sharing about how telemedicine and mobile tech are advancing healthcare.  Sharing my experience and what I'm learning in no way offers medical advice nor does it endorse any medical procedure.

It was probably ten years ago I was putting groceries away in the pantry when I felt a weird movement in my chest, I became lightheaded and then all of a sudden my heart started pounding.  By the time I was rushed to the hospital my arm was aching and I could barely breathe.  A quick check of my vitals showed 200 beats per minute and all of a sudden it turned into television episode of ER.  A surge of medical people working fast and furious, removing my garments, applying electrodes, hooking me up to monitors, stabbing me with i.v.s and the doctor yelling orders over all the chaos.  I remember laying there thinking oh.my.god.  I’m having a heart attack.

NO.  I didn’t have a heart attack.  What I was having was an episode of SVT.  A condition I wasn’t even aware that I had.  An extra nerve that I was born with that essentially short circuits and causes the heart to race.  I’m lucky in the sense that although I have a “condition” I am free of heart disease and any structural damage.   Are you?

February 5th is National Wear Red Day – this is a day to show support for the awareness of heart disease. It’s also a good time, especially for women to schedule a wellness visit and learn about cardiac health.

Did you know that heart disease is the No. 1 killer of women, causing 1 in 3 deaths each year?  That’s approximately one woman every minute!

Did you know that up to 1.3 million Americans alive today have some form of congenital heart defect? 

Did you know that In the United States alone, about 36,000 children are born with a heart defect each year?

Did you know that there is a low-cost, highly-effective, and painless bedside screening for newborns that can be completed in as little as 45 seconds at less than $4 per baby?

Did you know that state-of-the-art technology like nuclear stress testing can help determine blood flow to the heart and detect blockage?

Did you know that tech companies like Verizon Wireless work hard at supporting and evolving the telemedicine industry by combining applications for timely patient diagnosis.  Stuff like remote heart monitoring?

Give yourself a gift for Valentines Day -  get your heart checked out!

Photo Credit:National Heart Assoc

Click Here to learn more about Go Red for Women

Click Here to learn more about Macy’ Go Ted Total Makeover Events

Click Here: To take the online Go Red Heart-Checkup

Never Say Never- My First Cosmetic Procedure #lookyourbest

This post written in partnership with Dr. Kenneth Rothaus, M.D.

“What you think of yourself is much more important than what people think of you.”

— Anonymous

Have you ever had one of those moments when you catch yourself in a mirror and do a double take thinking "what the h...."?.    I hate it when that happens. 

In spite of the way my hair looks in these photos, I DO look in the mirror on the daily - evidently it's in short spurts.  I guess I never really paid much attention to the ever growing furrows on my forehead.   Until that recent mirror shock incident and it really started to bother me.  I'm not a doctor and I don't play one on t.v. but nothing topical was going to fix this problem.  It didn't matter what miracle cream I tried - nothing was working.   Nothing.

I knew what I wanted to do but anyone who knows me, knows I do hard and fast research before going to any doctor-much less one for cosmetic procedures.  You won't catch me with a Groupon (no offense) for any medical procedure. Especially since this would be my first time.  After Googling my brains out and talking with some trusted friends I happened on a recommendation for Dr. Rothhaus.

I had a injectable procedure done on my forehead which of course is done with a needle.  I can't tell you the number of people who tried scaring me with their needle drama. So much so that I fully expected to be screaming and crying but it was nothing like that.  Just a few pokes and a cold pack for a few minutes.  Nothing dramatic and barely a flinch.  I attribute that of course to the amazing Dr. R. - such great work.  And the staff is so friendly and helpful.

Although I could have seen some very qualified physicians in Chicago, Dr. Rothaus' credentials made me feel very confident and safe about having a first procedure.  The office hours and location were super convenient and the visit and procedure were seamless.  I was in and out and on my way to my meeting without any noticeable traces.

I think the photos show a drastic improvement and I couldn't be happier with the results.  Every person is different but for me one treatment is going on about 4-5 months.  Pricing is reasonable and the atmosphere is not intimidating nor did I feel out of place.  You will need to complete a medical history and consultation just as with any other physician.  Dr. R. will sit with you to discuss your history and concerns with patience and compassion.  Most importantly he will answer ALL of your questions.

The next time I'm in town I'm going to pop into Dr. Rothaus' office to check out a new amazing and exclusive procedure called SculpSure.   He is one of the first in the area to have it.  SculpSure is a 25 minute body contouring procedure with no pain and none of that crazy freezing fat in blocks stuff.  This will be sort of like a spa treatment.  Can't wait! Don't judge!

These are pretty impressive results!  I might do my arms or back area, maybe my double chin!

Click here to read Dr. Rothaus' credentials

Click here to find out more about SculpSure

Click here to view Dr. Rothaus' media coverage and appearances

E-Gift Ideas for Holiday and Christmas Shopping #VZWBuzz

“Three phrases that sum up Christmas are: Peace on Earth, Goodwill to Men, and Batteries not Included”

— English Proverb

I’m sharing about E-Gifting as part of my mobile life in participation with the Verizon Wireless #VZWBuzz Influencer program.

Giving is good.  Science says so.  Actually, some scientific studies say that giving makes us happy.  Some even believe that altruistic behavior releases endorphin in the brain giving us what they refer to as “helper’s high”.  Good news, right?  But what if we’re stuck in a long line, in a hot store, behind someone who is buying an entire clearance rack of crap with coupons!  So much for your helper’s high!  Cue the E-Gift.

What is an E Gift?   E-Gifts are used just like regular Gift Cards online or in stores but sent and received digitally via your mobile or email ORRRR it can be a service or product that is purchased, transmitted, delivered, received and used via mobile.

What’s great about E-Gifting is everything!  It’s instantaneous, it’s accessible any and everywhere and it’s virtually impossible to lose.  Unlike a gift card that you lose immediately after receiving it.  Can I get a witness?   There are so many great options to choose from, even from your mobile device.  Here’s my short list on how to shop smart with E-Gifting and avoid going to jail the night before Christmas.

PayPal – it’s fast, it’s easy and there are gazillion choices.  You can send it instantly or you can buy ahead and pick a date.  I like it.

iTunes – I don’t know if all the Apple Fangirls and Fanboys know you can E-Gift from iTunes.  Maybe I’m just late to this party.  Either way, Muy Bueno.  And you can do it right from your mobile device!  Buy from iBooks Store, and App Store, you can gift dollar amounts, books, audiobooks, music, movies, TV shows, or apps. I love it.

Digital Magazine Subscriptions – magazines have always been my favorite stocking stuffer but magazines are big and bulky and need to be recycled.  So go digital instead!  There are magazine apps like Texture, Zinio and countless others.  But sometimes “I” prefer to go right to the source.  What a great gift.  I like it.

Verizon Messages E-Gifting - for Verizon customers, directly from your messages app it’s unbelievably easy to use.  Choose from over 30 popular retailers, including AMC (love the gift of movies) and YOU choose the denomination.  Yaaass!  Right from your mobile device.  I love it.

Data – go on, give a gig!  Who can’t use data!  And with my preferred carrier Verizon, you can give a gig of data for only $10 bucks!  Data hogs rejoice!  I love it.  

IFTTT – if you really messed up and didn’t get anything out because you were under a rock somewhere.  At least you can use this IFTTT recipe to preschedule a Happy New Year greeting to everyone who may or may not be speaking to you by then.

Did I miss any?  Sharing is caring!

Click Here for more tips on how to shop smarter this holiday season

Click Here to learn how to get 2 free GB of data per month for life! (only from Verizon -thru Jan 6 2015)

Click Here for top mobile security tips to make holiday shopping safer

Disclosure:  As a #VZWBuzz influencer I was provided a device at no charge with a line of service from Verizon.  No additional compensation was provided.  There has been no editing by a third party (obviously), nor any promise of positive feedback.  All opinions are my own

The Most Important Way I Used My Smartphone & Wireless Service This Month #VZWBuzz

“It wasn’t raining when Noah built the ark”

— Howard Ruff

I’m sharing this story about how I use mobile tech in my life as part of my participation with the Verizon Wireless #VZWBuzz Influencer program.

Our smartphones and mobile devices have become an important way for us to communicate, go online, and access and share information like never before.  But like we’ve seen in recent world events, they are also important tools in emergency situations.

Last Wednesday night on my commute home from work, I was rear ended at high speed in the center lane of a four lane, fast moving expressway.  The impact was a shock to say the least.  I hit my head and my chest and I couldn’t exit my vehicle because of moving traffic.  I’m not typically a crybaby but this one had me rattled and on the verge of tears.  Thankfully I was able to dig for my smartphone and call 911.  Anyone entering or exiting a large city might know the perils of dropped calls and poor service through via ducts and tunnels.  Better DOES Matter when you’re in a situation like that.  Thankfully I had no problem with service or getting through immediately to 911.  They were on the scene quickly and pulled us out of danger and into safety. I can tell you with confidence that would not have been the case with many of the other carriers in my area, at the location where my accident happened.

As any of you who join the weekly Verizon Wireless #VZWBuzz Chats might know, there is ALWAYS great information and tips each week on different topics.  And even though I’m an Influencer member, I too learn new and important things. Just days before my accident I finally got around to applying some of the tips I had learned from a chat weeks, maybe even months before.  I had just photographed my insurance and registration for my husband.  I thought it would be good for me to have it handy when he’s traveling in case he ever needed it.  I would be able to just text it right over.  Guess who needed it first!  THANK Goodness I did that!  Because in the state I was in, I couldn’t think straight to go rummaging through all the stuff that went airborne on impact.  I just handed the officer my smartphone.

That was the night before Thanksgiving.  And although it was a horrible situation, had I not had the important documents I needed it would have been an even bigger mess!

How have you used mobile tech in YOUR life lately?  Sharing is Caring!

Click Here to learn about Verizon Roadside Assistance

Click Here to learn tips to help you stay connected during an emergency

Click Here to check out portable chargers that will keep your devices powered up for an emergency

Disclosure:  As a #VZWBuzz influencer I was provided a device at no charge with a line of service from Verizon.  No additional compensation was provided.  There has been no editing by a third party (obviously), nor any promise of positive feedback.  All opinions are my own

Takeaways From The #MyYoga 14 Day Clean Eating & Yoga Challenge

“Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food.”

— Hippocrates

As part of my working relationship with GaiamTV @MyYogaOnline, I have been writing about my personal journey of wellness.  I feel good about myself when I try new things and find ways to incorporate what I've learned into my daily routine.  I was especially excited to try the Conscious Cleanse 14 Day Clean Eating & Yoga Challenge on Gaiam/ My Yoga.

I had never done a cleanse before and from what little I knew, I was skeptical as to whether I would make 14 days.  Ya know what?  It sorta makes you feel like a bad-ass when you accomplish things outside of your comfort zone!  I wont say it was easy but I WILL say the expert online guidance and supportive community at Gaiam / My Yoga made it an amazing experience.  From the clear and concise daily action steps, to the shopping lists, recipes and daily recommended yoga videos - it was easy to follow and I appreciated that I could login any time and anywhere.  It made it easy to go back and pick right back up when I missed a day.  Loved that!

Five Things I Learned From Doing This Cleanse

( "I" have gathered this information in this process, this is NOT medical advice)

• I should consider drinking half my body weight in water ( i.e. 150# x .5 = 75oz).
• I learned ten signs that might indicate a cleanse could benefit me.

• How to beat the blues & dial down crankiness and irritability by changing what you eat.

• Yoga postures that twist and turn the body,  have a natural detoxifying effect.

• By drinking 2-3 cups of green smoothies daily, you consume enough greens to nourish your body.

Click Here to get started on your own 14 day clean eating & yoga challenge!

Click Here to take the 14 day challenge quiz and see how clean YOU are!

Click Here to take advantage of the GaiamTV .99 cent first month deal

Click Here for great smoothie recipes from @thenutribullet

Great Tips and Takeaways from Last Friday's Verizon #VZWBuzz Chat

“To travel is to live.”

— Hans Christian Andersen

As you may, or may not know – I am a Verizon #VZWBuzz Lifestyle Blogger.  I’m so honored to be part of this cool team of influencers who share information about mobile living.  Every Friday at 3pm ET there is a Twitter Chat about a current topic of interest.  ALWAYS great information, tips and prizes!

With Spring Break right around the corner last Friday’s chat was about planning your vacation.  Here are a few of the great tips and takeaways that can help you plan your upcoming vacation!

Great tip from Barb at Mom off Track

Put an EXTRA/ OLD phone in your luggage in case you break or lose yours.

Great tip from Robyn at Robyn’s Online World

Check out apps before traveling so you know how to use them.

Great tip from Chantal at Take It Personel-ly

So important to take pics of your passport, credit info, etc. in case you lose them.  Makes it easier to replace them.   

Tripit - Travel Organizing App

Sit or Squat – Restroom Finder App

Trover – geotagged traveler photos

Disclosure:  As a #VZWBuzz influencer I was provided a device at no charge with a line of service from Verizon.  No additional compensation was provided.  There has been no editing by a third party (obviously), nor any promise of positive feedback.  All opinions are my own.

Click here to see the upcoming #VZWBuzz Chat Schedule

Click here to see recent episodes of the #VZWBuzz video recap

Click here for a free pony (just kidding)

I Can't Learn About The RFRA From Miley Cyrus or Your Facebook Posts

“Facts are facts and will not disappear on account of your likes.”

— Jawaharlal Nehru

I must be nuts to come out with a fresh commentary about a subject that is so emotional for so many.   By choice I don’t normally post anything about politics because people lose their minds.

Such is the case with the #BoyCottIndiana that is happening right now.  It has been trending on Twitter and ever present in my Facebook stream.  All well and good–people have opinions.

However, my observation is that people take so much at face value and don’t do their “due diligence” (if you will) before blasting to their social media networks.

In my perfect world there is no entitlement and nobody gives a shit what you look like or what you are as long as you work hard.  Nobody gets a job or proper service only because you ARE “X” and you don’t NOT get a job or proper service only because you are “X”.

I am a minority woman in the workforce with a small business, years in management, operations and customer service-I have been in situations on both sides.

Throwing down the “D” card is pretty serious stuff.  I WISH people would do their homework before trying to convince others to jump on their train.  The way the law reads to me is that it doesn’t give the right to discriminate against LGBTQ.  It’s a balancing test for the courts to prevent the government from discriminating against religious Americans (all faiths), period.

More facts and links to help us learn more about the RFRA.

*The first RFRA was signed into law in 1993 by then President Bill Clinton.

*30 states have the same standard, either under state-law RFRAs or as a matter of state constitutional law.

* Indiana has local laws prohibiting discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation.

*The Federal RFRA

*The Indiana RFRA

*Click Here to see Non Discrimination Laws By State

Learning About Using #Yoga to Understand Grief #MyYoga

“We don’t get to live and not lose”

— Ken Druck

As part of my working relationship with GaiamTV @MyYogaOnline, I have been writing a series of posts about discovering yoga and my personal journey of wellness.  Sadly, in this post I’m learning how yoga can help with grief.

There was a full life, there was warning and there was time to say goodbye.   My mind knew what was coming but my heart didn’t get the memo.  I needed to be there for others and I would be busy and if I was busy I was fine.  Then someone called to see how I was doing and in two seconds I was inconsolable. I was shocked at my own reaction.  Particularly because I was in public.  If you know me.  You KNOW that’s not how I roll.

This grief for me was the most profound feeling of sadness and disbelief I’ve ever known.  Loss of appetite (not that I couldn’t stand to skip a few meals), my sleep was interrupted, tension headaches and obsessing.  Over and over and over and over what did this mean, what did that mean - I’m going to miss you. I wish you didn’t have to go.

Of course I prayed and I rely heavily on that but I also needed to understand the physical aspects of this grief.  I was drained and not feeling well.  Because of My Yoga on GaiamTV I knew there were endless resources to explore.  I Googled yoga for grief and found a really insightful article about using yoga to understand grief.   They talked about feeling your grief and moving toward acceptance.  They also gave suggestions on breathing exercises and other techniques to try.  One woman interviewed was Diane Roberts, Owner of Foundation Yoga.  She talked about how you repress what you don’t express and that the mind can lie, but the body can’t.   So true.

It’s going to take some time to find a new normal.  In the meantime I'm going to let the tears flow, the prayers continue and give myself some extra help by trying the suggested pranayama.  Pranayama is breathing exercises that clear the physical and emotional obstacles in our body for calm, clarity and balance.

Hopefully sharing this part of my journey helps you or someone you know.

Click Here to read the article I refer to about using yoga to understand grief

Click Here to see a preview of After the End -a documentary film about the effect of loss in each of our lives.

Click Here to see a preview Grief Relief with Aurora Winter the Founder of the Grief Coach Academy

Beginner Yoga with @GaiamTV @MyYogaOnline #MyYoga

“Yoga is not just repetition of few postures - it is more about the exploration and discovery of the subtle energies of life.”

— Amit Ray

As part of my working relationship with GaiamTV My Yoga I have been writing over the last couple of months about beginning a journey of wellness.  You’ll notice I didn’t say fitness.  I said wellness.  The condition of being in good physical and mental health.

Part of what I’m incorporating is Yoga.  It’s totally amazing.  In previous posts I’ve talked about finding balance and commitment. Now that I’m a few months in I wanted to give you a sneak peek picture tour inside my GaiamTV My Yoga Online profile so you can see why I’m so amped about them!  But first here is my list of things you need to know when becoming a beginner yogi.

1.       You don’t need to go out and spend a ton of $$ on gear.  You really only need your body.  If you can get a mat and a block, do that. Oh!  And a subscription to GaiamTV.

2.       If you’re a beginner,start there.  Don’t think you can jump right to advanced – you’ll bust your ass, a hip or get stuck in a compromising position that your neighbor does NOT want to see you in.

3.       You might feel silly at first doing breathing and meditation exercises but they are SO necessary.  I mean I don’t Om but that’s just me.

4.       Do a little bit of homework and learn some of the terms.  Trust me on that one.

5.       If you think Yoga is not a workout- talk to me after you do a few sessions.

Terms:

Asanas- is one of the eight limbs of classical Yoga, which states that poses should be steady and comfortable, firm yet relaxed helping a practitioner to become more aware of their body, mind, and environment. The 12 basic poses or asanas are much more than just stretching.

Vinyasa- means "breath-synchronized movement," and Vinyasa yoga is a series of poses that will move you through the power of inhaling and exhaling.

Sutra- the Sutra is a collection of 195 statements that serves as a philosophical guidebook for most of the yoga that is practiced today. It also outlines eight limbs of yoga: the yamas(restraints), niyamas (observances), asana (postures),  pranayama (breathing), pratyahara (withdrawal of senses), dharana (concentration), dhyani (meditation), and samadhi (absorption).

Namaste - Nama means bow, as means I, and te means you. Therefore, namaste literally means “bow me you” or “I bow to you.”  The gesture is an acknowledgment of the soul in one by the soul in another.

Dosha - According to Ayurveda, each of us has a unique mix of three mind and body principles, which creates our specific mental and physical characteristics. These three principles are called doshas. Vata, pitta and kapha.

Chakras- The chakras are the energy centers within us that greatly influence our potential and experience.  There are seven.

I chose this beginner video and I received a segment list for other episodes.  Notice I can add them to my playlist to watch later.

Sync your library to your mobile device and watch anywhere without internet access.

Guides to get you started or point you in the right direction.

GaiamTV is MORE than just yoga.  There are LOTS of options! 

Did you know they offer films and series!  Check out all these options!  Great for Indie Film Lovers! 

Click Here to learn more about GaiamTV

Click Here to learn more about GaiamTV My Yoga Refer a Friend Program

Click Here to take the Dosha quiz

Ways I Used Mobile Tech This Month #VZWBuzz

“The mobile phone acts as a cursor to connect the digital and physical.”

— Marissa Meyer

Photo Credit: Verizon Wireless

I am part of the Verizon Wireless #VZWBuzz Influencer team.  This month's post is about how technology helps us in our daily lives and all the ways I used mobile tech this month.  I have been a Verizon Wireless customer for over ten years.  When nobody else gets a signal - my network is lightning fast! 

January was a big month for me.  I celebrated a birthday, we spent New Year's Eve in the beautiful Smoky Mountains of Tennessee AND I attended my very first Sundance Film Festival.  Where by the way, I had my very first zip lining adventure!  Yes, I am VERY lucky.

I'm reminded when I see the television spots of Katie Couric and Bryant Gumbel in the BMW I3 commercial that it wasn't really that long ago that we were being introduced to the internet-much less smartphones.  So when I think of ALL the things I can do on the go - it's really pretty amazing!

Here are five ways I used mobile tech this month

Me and my friends took a yoga class using my tablet! 
Here's what I used

I signed up to donate time and items to my child's school!
Here's what I used

I created a photo collage and posted it to social media!
Here's what I used

I did some work from my desktop while sitting on a mountain!
Here's what I used

I uploaded and shared all my travel photos in minutes!
Here's what I used

*All equipment courtesy of Verizon Wireless

Granted these are not miraculous amazing feats.  But you must admit it's pretty fantastic all the ways we use mobile tech in our daily lives.

I’VE GOT THIS – A 2015 HIT LIST #CommitToYou

“Kick 2015 in the nuts”

— Kevin Green

CRAP!  Here we are.  Again.  New Year, new you – “bbyy” (blah, yadda yadda).  How I loathe the New Year resolution overload.  It’s like Groundhog Day, except it’s in years. 

If I’m honest I would tell you I have lived most of my early adulthood with the mantra of “no expectations, no disappointments”.  And although that served me well at the time, it’s only with age that my mindset has changed.  It’s GOOD to set expectations and there can be fewer disappointments when you do! 

This year instead jumping off the cliff of empty resolutions I’m creating a hit list of “methods” and I’m counting on them to drive me places I want to go.

Figure out what’s important – As a woman I tend to operate in the “it’s ALL important” zone.  I need to change lanes.

Get specific – If I had a dollar for every time I said “I want to be healthier”, I would be living in the South of France with a full staff.  S.P.E.C.I.F.I.C.

Look at the big picture – Taking things one step at a time is awesome but if you don’t see the cliff a few feet away…well….

Work from the inside-out - Make time to create a healthy relationship with myself, calm my mind and balance my soul.

Write it down – Time to create a vision board or journal expectations.  Keeping it all in my head takes up too much RAM and the files tend to get buried in the day to day.  Know what I mean?

Use power words – My mantra for 2015?   “I’ve Got This”. 

That’s the hit list and I’m kicking it off with the help of GaiamTV @MyYogaOnline.  #CommitToYou Challenge!  21 days of powerful yoga classes and deep meditations to set the foundation for where I need to go. 

Click Here To Take the Quiz and Discover YOUR Perfect Mantra

Click Here to get a full month of My Yoga on @GaianTV for 99 cents! 

Click Here to read about 2015 The Year of the Sheep Predictions

(Yeah I know, nobody believes this stuff but everybody knows their sign-lol)

Life Happens: Find a More #BalancedYou

“If it doesn’t challenge you, it doesn’t change you”

— Fred Devito

There is nothing that wakes up the awareness of your personal wellness like taking care of an aging parent.   We have a family history of Alzheimer’s.  It is said that you either die from it, or you die with it.  Either way it sucks.  If I’m honest, it is more than once that my thoughts are  that I don’t want to be in that situation.  So what am I doing about it?

Thoughts fade, time heals and life happens.  Another year passes and I’m still sitting on the backburner.  I forget my own advice sometimes.  I hijacked it from flight crews everywhere.  “Put your own mask on before assisting others”!

I made a decision last winter that I was no longer going to just be a human doing.  I was determined to become a human “being”.  My goal was to find methods to decompress, de-stress and head toward wellness.  Body, mind and soul.  I joined a running club and started running 5K’s, I started a monthly massage membership, and I began searching for a yoga facility.  I was interested in trying yoga or Qi Gong.  I was having trouble finding something that would fit my schedule.

So when the opportunity came along to work with GaiamTV and @MyYogaOnline it was a perfect option!  I would be able to check out all they had to offer at my own pace, in the privacy of my own home and on my own timeline.  No more stressing over trying to make a session or a class.  Which was totally contradicting what I was trying to accomplish.  I had never done yoga before, ever.  But I was so excited to get started.

Admittedly I was a little nervous about my ability.  I mean, I’ve seen some crazy yoga poses on Instagram and Pinterest and I wasn’t 100% if I could plank or downward dog like the other kids!  Not to mention inhaling when I would be naturally inclined to exhale and suck wind when I should be exhaling.  Yeah, I got issues!

Happily, none of that was a problem because GaiamTV has literally thought of everything.  It truly IS Yoga for every, body! From beginner to advanced, there are countless video channels, guides, poses and articles.  You can filter for level, focus, duration, or collection.  I mean, it’s totally impressive and so easy to navigate.  I’m especially enjoying the community and excellent GaiamTV team support.

I recently joined the #BalancedYou 21 day journey.  I took a fun, easy Q and A and it was determined that I am a cultivator.  There are four elements.  Take the quiz to find out what you are!  How it works is that I have a 21 day personalized guide of handpicked content and programs based on my answers, to help me achieve a more balanced body, mind and spirit.

According to many recent studies there is significant scientific evidence that yoga and meditation have positive influences on physical and psychological health.  I don’t know what the future holds; life happens.  But I'm doing my part to find a more balanced me!

**Disclosure: I work with GaiamTV and MyYogaOnline.  All opinions are my own.

Photo Credit: Gaiam TV My Yoga

Click Here to check out GaiamTV #MyYoga

Click Here to read a great article on Why Your Brain Loves Yoga

Click Here to read a great article on 8 Ways Yoga Can Help You Lose Weight

Sunday Shorty: Why We Whistle

“If you want me just whistle. You know how to whistle don’t you? Just put your lips together and blow.”

— Lauren Bacall

Sometimes I have the most rapid-fire random thoughts, it’s hard to keep up.  And sometimes I take it to another level and investigate them.  I’m certain this isn’t normal.

This day my husband and I were in the kitchen doing I don’t even know what, and he began to whistle.  It made me smile but it also gave me pause.  As usual, my brain went into overload.

You’re whistling.  Why do people whistle?  Why are YOU whistling?  Is whistling a decision?  Does your brain say okay, let’s whistle now?  Like, what’s the process?  I mean the dwarfs whistled while they worked but there was only ONE happy one.   So is whistling good or bad?  *faint*.

So I decided to check this out (you know, because I don’t have five MILLION other things I need to be doing).   Turns out here isn’t much information out there about whistling! I managed to scrape up five interesting tidbits.

1.        Whistling distracts and calms the brain.

2.        Whistling relieves tension

3.        Whistling is a habit.  Some people don’t even realize they’re doing it.

4.        There are many superstitions about whistling

5.        Men whistle far more than women.

Click Here to learn about the International Whistlers Convention

Click Here to learn how to whistle loud

Click Here to learn about the 15 best whistling songs of all time

How To LOVE a Candle

“You need to let the little things that would ordinarily bore you suddenly thrill you.”

— Andy Warhol

Picking up from my post about Yankee Candle and my customer experience.  I wanted to share what I learned.

I have been burning candles since dinosaurs were wandering the earth.  I just like ‘em.  But can I tell you- I have evidently been doing it wrong this WHOLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLLE time!

Five ways to LOVE a candle (courtesy of Yankee Candle).

TRIM THE WICK.

I have never done that.  There I said it.  You need to trim the wick to 1/8” and keep it like that the whole time.  So you may (or not) be thinking, what I was thinking.  How the heck am I supposed to do that!  There’s not an app for that but there IS a wick trimmer!  Who knew!

LET THE WAX POOL.

Each time you burn your candle, let the top liquefy to get the most of your scent.  I was skeptical but it’s true!  Yep.

LET IT BURN.

WHAT!  It won't last a week!  No momma. Let it burn the first time 4-5 hours.  WARNING:  NEVER leave a candle unattended.  Meaning don’t take off and leave a burning candle in your house.  And for the love of all things holy – keep it AWAY from children.  DUH!

USE A CANDLE TOPPER.

Okayyy??   I have probably seen it before but I thought it was a decorative thing.  I had no idea it performed a function.  A topper reduces the effects of draft and extends the life of your candle. Whaaa?

DIP THE WICK.

Excuse me?  Yes.  If you use your wick trimmer and push the wick into the liquid, the flame dies out without the whole “what’s that smell?” “Did you just blow out the candle” dilemma.

P.S.  I’m in love with Black Coconut right now!

Anything else I should know?  Tell me about it!

Click Here For The Yankee Candle "Learning" Center

Click Here For Yankee Candle Burn Times

Click Here For Wick Trimming Information

How To Make Slime

“Somewhere, something incredible is waiting to be known.”

— Carl Sagan

I haven't done many Vine videos-  I'm still practicing.  That's what makes it fun to be a Verizon Wireless #VZWBuzz Influencer.  #VZWBuzz is a group of social media Influencers who share their lifestyle experiences while using mobile tech devices.  This is my first video with the VERY cool Motorola Droid Turbo.  All opinions are my own.

We love Halloween and what better way to get things started than with a fun project!  Here is the recipe we used for making slime!

You will need two (2) bowls, water, Borax detergent booster, glue (clear or white), food coloring, and some sort of storage container or bag to keep the slime in.

In one bowl:  1 tsp borax and 1 cup of water.  Stir well.

In separate bowl:  5 oz glue and 1/2 a cup of water.  Stir well.  In this same bowl add approx. 6 drops of your favorite color of food coloring.  Mix well.

Combine glue mixture into the borax mixture.  Mix well, knead and drain the excess water.

Voila!

This is also a fun post Halloween project! 

Click Here For More Ways to Make Slime

Click Here for Best Kids Science Experiments on Pinterest

Click Here For More Fun Science Experiments

The Sony #Xperia Z2 Tablet – It Works Hard AND Plays Hard #VZWBuzz

“Learn well and play well”

— Lailah Gifty Akita

I’m not a tech expert.  There are gobs of sites and YouTube channels you can get spec information from.  I am a Verizon Wireless #VZWBuzz Influencer.  #VZWBuzz is a team of influential online people who share experiences they have using mobile tech devices.  I’m sharing how we’re using the Sony Xperia Z2 tablet in our daily lives.  All opinions are my own.

In a previous post I talked about how the Sony Xperia Z2 Tablet went to work, got dirty and cleaned up perfectly for a presentation that won us a contract!  AWESOME!  Well when the work’s all done – it’s time to play!   This a tablet that works hard AND plays hard!

The Sony Xperia Z2 tablet is light!  I mean sleek and slim AND get this.  Waterproof!  I’m not one to take a tablet swimming or even into the shower.  BUT if I wanted to, I totally could!  How this feature comes in handy is that if you’re at a kid’s game, or waiting for a commuter train and it starts raining- you can keep doing whatever it is you’re doing while everyone else freaks out and heads for cover!  Maybe you’re on a boat, or at the pool on vacation – you won’t be the ninny in the last row of lounge chairs missing all the fun.  I like to put my drinks on it – makes people reeellllll nervous!

Here’s where this post gets informative and educational.  Do you know what triluminos, x-reality, s-force, ingress protection or Exmor RS mean?  It’s okay-that’s not important.  What IS important is how they make this tablet awesome!   Ready?

Triluminos – At first I thought this was some sort of face cream.  But no, it’s a state-of-the-art technology that gives extraordinary vivid color and viewing that you normally experience from a large screen television.  It’s what makes the graphics on this tablet so amazing.

X-Reality-   I was all over this like it was a new Bravo show or something.  But it’s actually the quality viewing on your tablet.  Make the images razor sharp and smooth.  I was never one to watch a full length movie on a tablet.  Till now.

S-Force – Turns out this is not a movie trailer.  What it is, is technology for superior surround sound on your tablet!  You will experience crisp, clear sound that is never covered up with your fingers.  Gaming on this thing?  Fuhgeddaboutid!

Ingress Protection – Psychobabble?  Nuh-uh.  It’s a durability certification rating.  And guess what?  The Sony Xperia Z2 ranks high!  When the ports are closed this tablet is dust-proof, water-proof and scratch resistant!  Hear me now!

Exmor RS – Did you think this was a prescription medication too?  It’s camera technology!  Get ready to take HD quality photos and videos in any light!  Hello?  It’s Sony!

The Sony Xperia Z2 is sleek and light, and durable and fun, and most functions are one touch!  As silly as it seems I love the bezel (frame of the tablet) because I know my fingers aren’t covering content.  And although there has been some internet whining about the protruding power button.  I LOVE it.  I never have to guess which rocker is the power.  So THAT works for me!

Is YOUR tablet this awesome?  Tell me about it!

Click Here To Check out All the Great Features of The Sony Xperia Z2

Click Here to Read 5 Features You’ll Love on the Sony Xperia Z2 Tablet by Verizon

Click Here to Check Out All the Must Have Accessories for Sony Xperia Z2 Tablet

A Customer Experience : Yankee Candle #CustServ @TheYankeeCandle

“Good is the enemy of great.”

— Voltaire

A Yankee Candle store recently opened in our area and I had been meaning to get there for months!  You know how it goes.  You drive by a million times but there is always somewhere else you need to be.

I’d never been to Yankee Candle before.  Of course I know the brand.  I mean, “Long time listener, first time caller” ….

They didn’t have more or less of a selection than their competitor but what they DID have was superior customer service.  I say that full well knowing that a well-known competitor has team members all over the place.   This was just a little bit different.  This was more of an “experience” and less of a sell.  And by giving that kind of experience, guess what?  I bought MORE.

I went in to buy one (1) candle and I came out with MORE than (1) candle!   I haven’t yet investigated the Yankee organization’s structure but the particular team member that helped us had an incredible work ethic and / or Yankee has a secret sauce that makes their team feel more vested in their concept.

She was pleasant, knowledgeable and not rushed- even though the store was pretty busy.  I don’t know about you but when I walk into a store like that I’m like a deer in headlights.  I’m not sure wth to do first.  That can be a little frustrating for some workers.  She knew the perfect pace that allowed us to wander and yet still be there when we needed her.  She answered all of our questions genuinely and even went so far to demonstrate certain things without a hardcore upsell.  It was evident that other patrons felt the same way.  Someone behind me waited VERY patiently and chimed in while the team member was busy with us.

One would wonder what the big freakin’ deal is - it’s just candles.  Well yes, but no.  It’s a way of doing things that creates an experience, which creates advocates for a brand.  It’s simple.  Give the kind of customer service you would like to receive.

Share YOUR Customer Experience!

Click Here to Learn More About Yankee Candle

Click Here to Learn About Yankee Candle Fundraising

Click Here to Learn About Yankee Candle Initiatives

The HTC One M8 – It’s a Sexy Little Beast! #VZWBuzz

“It’s still magic even if you know how it’s done.”

— Terry Pratchett

Let me just start off by saying, I am by NO means a tech expert.  There are a bazillion sites and YouTube videos for that.  What I am… is a Verizon Wireless #VZWBuzz Influencer.  #VZWBuzz is a super awesome group of online Influencers who share their lifestyle experiences using mobile tech devices.  I’m going to share how I’m using mobile tech in my life.  All opinions are my own.

As I mentioned I am no tech expert but I AM a mobile beast!  I’m everywhere except stationary and I tend to load my plate All. The. Time.  So I enjoy checking out devices that help me get through my busy schedule seamlessly.  But more importantly how they help me unwind!

When I first opened the HTC One M8 my initial response was “WOW” this is very cool!   Albeit I do have a strange affinity to anything gunmetal.  Yeah, that’s for a therapist to figure out.  But the look and hand feel of this phone was amazeballs.  Very sleek but substantial.  And I’m not going to lie.  There’s a certain something about the zoom of power when performing functions on this sexy little beast. Love.

Most techies will talk about the guts and operating blah blah blah.  Of course that matters, duh!  But since THEY have THAT covered I can talk about what the average bear is lookin’ at!

Screen?  √

5” Big and Bold!

SD Slot? √

The one time you don’t have one, is the ONE time you desperately one.  Just sayin’.

Kid Friendly? √

EASY to lock down and throw into kid mode any place, any time.

Sound? √  Double √.

ONE of my favorite things!  Dual front facing speakers and boomsound.  GREAT for listening to music and watching video!

Camera? √

Hello?  It could be me BUT I don’ think I have EVER looked at a phone and wondered how the call quality is ( since the year 2000, anyway).  LOTS of super cool camera features here, including dual lens and Ultra Pixels.   Remember this - more pixels don’t mean better photos – larger pixels do.

The HTC One M8 is my go to device for music and photos which makes it the perfect party guest!  Every party needs a sexy little beast, right?

How does your mobile device work in your lifestyle?  Tell me about it!

Click Here For Great HTC One M8 Deals on Verizon

Click Here To Learn More About the Features and Functions of the HTC One M8

Click Here To Learn More About the HTC One M8 For Windows

3 Questions To Ask Yourself Before You Ask For a Raise - #smallbiz

“Don’t wish it were easier. Wish you were better.”

— Jim Rohn

I’ve been VERY fortunate in my career - I’ve never had to ask for a raise.  I hope to never have to.

I’ve always worked hard and diligently to contribute and make a difference, and have counted on great management to recognize that.  Like I said, I have been VERY fortunate.

So as someone IN a position to issue increases and increase recommendations, I find myself in a conundrum.   Without opening a Pandora’s Box - there are tons of people who work hard and are not compensated accordingly.  True.  Then there are the people who show up.  THOSE are the ones I’m talking about.

So when someone who has been operating on entitlement wants to “talk” about why they didn’t receive a raise or the raise they “expected”.   I have some questions.

How have you improved your performance and how has that helped the team/company?

How have you helped the company save or make money?

What ideas have you contributed to improve processes?

If I hear *crickets* - I'll have a fourth....

If I were you, why would you pay me more today to do exactly the same thing I was doing last review?

Work ethic (noun): the principle that hard work is intrinsically virtuous or worthy of reward.

Click Here to search U.S. salaries

Click Here to read about how to be happier at work

Click Here to check out an interactive chart to find the perfect job

Have you ever asked for a raise and didn't get it?  Tell me about it!