5) Write Raphael at least 4 letters while he’s in Honduras (3/4) 4/21/07, 8/26/07, 12/01/07
Letter #3 to Raph was stamped and mailed December 1st. Interestingly enough, John Lamming tapped me on the shoulder as I was writing it. He was with his entire family and our conversation was extremely brief, though.
8) Eliminate acne Nature's Gate Organics Acne Treatment System purchased 5/3/07; Zinc supplement arrived 6/22/07; started Bikram yoga 6/23/07; started acupuncture 11/9/07
&
39) Receive acupuncture 11/09/07, 11/21/07, 12/07/07
It's working. I'm taking 32 herbal pills a day, but my face is clearing. Pimples still are breaking out, but only one to two at a time vs. five or six, and it's only been a month. Hopefully I haven't spoke too soon...
17) Take Acting for Camera class enrolled 7/4/07; 8/16/07 - 12/13/07
The class ended last night with a potluck (to which 5 people brought chips and/or salsa) and viewings of our last scenes. The scene I was in, from Midsummer Night's Dream, was a complete disaster. I was the only one of the four people in my scene w/o a script in my hand, though I had a good third of the lines. It's funny though. I have it, as well as everything else I did in the class, on DVD. I am so relieved to be done with the whole affair though. In the end, I was getting very little out of it.
34) Have a game night every other week for 3 months (1/6) 10/13/07, 10/27/07, 11/11/07 - interrupted; 12/01/07
A couple weeks ago I brought Serene and Zack over to Mag and Ran's to play games. We played a brief round of Scene It and then The Gift of Enlightenment, in which you test how in tune your chakras are. Maggie won.
79) Determine what key clothing pieces you’re missing from your wardrobe and make or purchase them Pencil Skirt 12/9/07
I went out looking for a dress to wear to my company party and fell in-love with a versatile pencil skirt. It's charcoal gray with pin stripes, and everyone at the party loved it, though they were more taken with the red heels I had on.
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Day 238
34) Have a game night every other week for 3 months (0/6) 10/13/07, 10/27/07, 11/11/07 - interrupted
I failed to have a game night this past weekend, probably due to both Trin and Zack being out of town. I want to start having more variety to those who attend too. Maybe invite people from my acting class and from yoga. It might be better to wait until the holidays have passed though...
39) Receive acupuncture 11/09/07, 11/21/07
I had my second round of acupuncture last Wednesday and got a whole new mixture of herbs to take. With the herbs in my system I have little tolerance for sugary foods which presented digestive problems on Thanksgiving and my B-day (which went wonderfully BTW). I really enjoy the peace and relaxation that the acupuncture itself provides but any effects on my acne have yet to be seen.
I failed to have a game night this past weekend, probably due to both Trin and Zack being out of town. I want to start having more variety to those who attend too. Maybe invite people from my acting class and from yoga. It might be better to wait until the holidays have passed though...
39) Receive acupuncture 11/09/07, 11/21/07
I had my second round of acupuncture last Wednesday and got a whole new mixture of herbs to take. With the herbs in my system I have little tolerance for sugary foods which presented digestive problems on Thanksgiving and my B-day (which went wonderfully BTW). I really enjoy the peace and relaxation that the acupuncture itself provides but any effects on my acne have yet to be seen.
Monday, November 19, 2007
Day 228
10) Master 10 dinner recipes (0/10) Baked Chicken Breast with Honey Mustard Sauce (4); Stir Fried Chicken & Asparagus w/Seaweed Rice (1); 15 Minute Salmon with Mint Salsa and Minted Carrots with Pumpkin Seeds (1); Homemade Chili (1)
On Halloween I made a batch of chili from scratch... though the beans were canned... but they were organic. Trin and Zack had some and loved it, so I consider it a success.
17) Take Acting for Camera class enrolled 7/4/07
I've been getting all A's in this class, but it's scared me away from ever trying to act professionally. It really requires you to go for it heart and soul and it's impossible to give it real effort and keep a steady job, so you'd need someone supporting you at the start or have saved enough to support yourself.
34) Have a game night every other week for 3 months (3/6) 10/13/07, 10/27/07, 11/11/07
Sunday the 11th, after much conversation and story reading, Serena, Zack and I sat down for a game of scrabble. I didn't have a chance against these two, and was very sleepy, so I left the game early for bed while the two of 'em battled it out. Serena eventually won, though Zack claims it's because he got tired.
39) Receive acupuncture 11/09/07
Friday the 9th I received acupuncture for the first time, the focus being on curing me of acne. Needles were stuck in various parts of my body and I lay there with them for a half hour. I did feel random tingles and itches and my right hand went through something brief but painful. All and all it was relaxing, particularly the massage that followed. I was given some herbs and made another appt. for this Wed. Cross your fingers for my cause I really don't want to take Accutane.
53) Volunteer 50hrs (26/50) Food Bank 4/18/07, Homeless Children (2) 5/2/07, 6/20/07, Sprucing up the Botanical Garden 5/19/07, Breakfast for Abused Children 6/2/07, Fixin' Feral Kitties in Oakland 9/16/07, SF Green Festival 11/10 & 11/11/07
The weekend of the 10th and 11th I volunteered at the Green Festival. On Saturday I helped with the Numi tea stand and was given a bunch of free tea. Very good tea, might I add, being organic, plus fair trade certified. On Sunday my job was to get people to "register" by filling out a form asking for their name, phone #, e-mail, and mailing address. Clearly this was for marketing purposes so I felt awkward, particularly because they had to fill one out in order to get a ticket. Around 4pm (my shift was from 2-630p) they moved me to a little room to scan and pack donated books. I made out like a bandit with all the freebies for volunteers, the most mentionable being organic cotton shirts and organic chocolate.
On Halloween I made a batch of chili from scratch... though the beans were canned... but they were organic. Trin and Zack had some and loved it, so I consider it a success.
17) Take Acting for Camera class enrolled 7/4/07
I've been getting all A's in this class, but it's scared me away from ever trying to act professionally. It really requires you to go for it heart and soul and it's impossible to give it real effort and keep a steady job, so you'd need someone supporting you at the start or have saved enough to support yourself.
34) Have a game night every other week for 3 months (3/6) 10/13/07, 10/27/07, 11/11/07
Sunday the 11th, after much conversation and story reading, Serena, Zack and I sat down for a game of scrabble. I didn't have a chance against these two, and was very sleepy, so I left the game early for bed while the two of 'em battled it out. Serena eventually won, though Zack claims it's because he got tired.
39) Receive acupuncture 11/09/07
Friday the 9th I received acupuncture for the first time, the focus being on curing me of acne. Needles were stuck in various parts of my body and I lay there with them for a half hour. I did feel random tingles and itches and my right hand went through something brief but painful. All and all it was relaxing, particularly the massage that followed. I was given some herbs and made another appt. for this Wed. Cross your fingers for my cause I really don't want to take Accutane.
53) Volunteer 50hrs (26/50) Food Bank 4/18/07, Homeless Children (2) 5/2/07, 6/20/07, Sprucing up the Botanical Garden 5/19/07, Breakfast for Abused Children 6/2/07, Fixin' Feral Kitties in Oakland 9/16/07, SF Green Festival 11/10 & 11/11/07
The weekend of the 10th and 11th I volunteered at the Green Festival. On Saturday I helped with the Numi tea stand and was given a bunch of free tea. Very good tea, might I add, being organic, plus fair trade certified. On Sunday my job was to get people to "register" by filling out a form asking for their name, phone #, e-mail, and mailing address. Clearly this was for marketing purposes so I felt awkward, particularly because they had to fill one out in order to get a ticket. Around 4pm (my shift was from 2-630p) they moved me to a little room to scan and pack donated books. I made out like a bandit with all the freebies for volunteers, the most mentionable being organic cotton shirts and organic chocolate.
Monday, October 29, 2007
Day 207
I have to admit I'm just not as enthusiastic about life without Phineas in it. I'm also depressed because there are so many issues surrounding the prospect of me adopting another cat; Zack having asthma, me having allergies, a dog in the house, me finding a cat friendly place when I move out, Mom and Roger being all uptight about the issue, I want to travel...*sigh*
None of this changes the gaping hole I feel without feline companionship. I've thought about volunteering at the SPCA, but what if it just makes me want a pet more?
34) Have a game night every other week for 3 months (2/6) 10/13/07, 10/27/07
The turn out for the second game night was small but intimate being Trinity, Zack, Serena and I. We first went for sushi, and finally (after much conversation) got around to a game of Pictionary. Although Zack and I had a good lead in the beginning, we quickly lost ground to Trin and Serene due to a series of puny rolls, and they beat us in the end.
None of this changes the gaping hole I feel without feline companionship. I've thought about volunteering at the SPCA, but what if it just makes me want a pet more?
34) Have a game night every other week for 3 months (2/6) 10/13/07, 10/27/07
The turn out for the second game night was small but intimate being Trinity, Zack, Serena and I. We first went for sushi, and finally (after much conversation) got around to a game of Pictionary. Although Zack and I had a good lead in the beginning, we quickly lost ground to Trin and Serene due to a series of puny rolls, and they beat us in the end.
Monday, October 15, 2007
Day 193
4) Paint your room 10/05/07
So, Zack called me on the 21st of September inquiring if I still had a vacant room in my apartment. "Why, did you break up with Nicole?" I asked. And low and behold, he had. Two weeks later he was moved in, and I had painted my room a lovely spring green... with random chunks of blue grey, because I ran out of the green and the guys at Home Depot just couldn't recreate it. It's not terribly noticeable as the room is dark. I'm going to be painting cherry blossom branches on the wall too, which should further deter from the two tones.
34) Have a game night every other week for 3 months (1/6)
This past Saturday Trin's friend Tommy and his girlfriend Binky were in town, so the three of them, along with Serena, Zack and I, gathered at the apartment for a game of Therapy. It was a very long game since we kept getting side tracked by conversation, but we had a great time, laughing and drinking tea. Trinity won.
So, Zack called me on the 21st of September inquiring if I still had a vacant room in my apartment. "Why, did you break up with Nicole?" I asked. And low and behold, he had. Two weeks later he was moved in, and I had painted my room a lovely spring green... with random chunks of blue grey, because I ran out of the green and the guys at Home Depot just couldn't recreate it. It's not terribly noticeable as the room is dark. I'm going to be painting cherry blossom branches on the wall too, which should further deter from the two tones.
34) Have a game night every other week for 3 months (1/6)
This past Saturday Trin's friend Tommy and his girlfriend Binky were in town, so the three of them, along with Serena, Zack and I, gathered at the apartment for a game of Therapy. It was a very long game since we kept getting side tracked by conversation, but we had a great time, laughing and drinking tea. Trinity won.
Monday, September 24, 2007
Day 172
93) Take a photo a week (17/143)
is now
93) Get a decent camera
I don't know if this is legal, but my camera phone completely died and took the past 2 months pictures with it. I can't afford a cell phone just yet, nor a decent camera, and that still wouldn't make up for the 8 photos lost. So I've decided to change the goal rather than it be failed. I will happily take and post pics regularly when this goal is met.
is now
93) Get a decent camera
I don't know if this is legal, but my camera phone completely died and took the past 2 months pictures with it. I can't afford a cell phone just yet, nor a decent camera, and that still wouldn't make up for the 8 photos lost. So I've decided to change the goal rather than it be failed. I will happily take and post pics regularly when this goal is met.
Friday, September 21, 2007
Day 169
5) Write Raphael at least 4 letters while he’s in Honduras (2/4) 4/21/07, 8/26/07
On Aug 24th I received a reply from Raph to my first letter and, in shifts over the weekend, I wrote him back. Then the letter sat around for two weeks due to my whirlwind of activities and my painful decision to put my best friend/baby/kitty to sleep. He was eighteen with rapidly failing health and his quality of life had diminished. In a lot of ways it's easier knowing he's out of pain, but I keep having to remind myself he's gone.
92) Attend 10 live performances (3/10) SF Mime Troupe: Making A Killing 7/4/07; Aladdin Jr. 8/4/07; Ahh! Rosebud 8/24/07; Out Damned Spot 8/31/07
Dan invited me and several of his friends to attend the play, Ahh! Rosebud, on Aug 24th. It spoofs Citizen Kane in the form of his sled Rosebud being a demonic, murderous thing causing overly ambitious people to kill, their victims turning into mindless zombies. It was funny and clever, and I enjoyed myself.
A week later I went to see Trinity's band, Out Damned Spot, perform at a cafe I frequented when I worked @ Hollywood Video. They did two sets and sounded good. In fact they sound better in small cafes than in larger venues.
53) Volunteer 50hrs (18/50) Food Bank 4/18/07, Homeless Children (2) 5/2/07, 6/20/07, Sprucing up the Botanical Garden 5/19/07, Breakfast for Abused Children 6/2/07, Fixin' Feral Kitties in Oakland 9/16/07
Last Sunday I volunteered 6 hours at the Oakland SPCA helping a small army of cat lovers spay/neuter 160something felines. I ended up doing the coolest job there, transporting passed out kitties by holding them at the nape of neck with one hand and supporting their bottom with the other. The system works by getting civilians in the area to catch and deliver to the shelter all the feral cats around their neighborhoods. The cats are then divided into male, female, unknown, and sick sections. The sick ones are done last. It was part of my job to determine the sex of the unknowns once they were tranquilized. In order to operate on the cats they spread them on boards with their legs strapped down. It was totally surreal. Here's an article on the subject with a picture.
58) Buy furniture for the deck 9/15/07
This Saturday the design company I work for had a moving sale (we moved from Potrero Hill to SOMA), and I snagged two chairs and a table for the deck. I was willing to pay but they gave them to me for free. They're metal, and rather worn, so I'll have to paint them, but then they'll be really nice.
On Aug 24th I received a reply from Raph to my first letter and, in shifts over the weekend, I wrote him back. Then the letter sat around for two weeks due to my whirlwind of activities and my painful decision to put my best friend/baby/kitty to sleep. He was eighteen with rapidly failing health and his quality of life had diminished. In a lot of ways it's easier knowing he's out of pain, but I keep having to remind myself he's gone.
92) Attend 10 live performances (3/10) SF Mime Troupe: Making A Killing 7/4/07; Aladdin Jr. 8/4/07; Ahh! Rosebud 8/24/07; Out Damned Spot 8/31/07
Dan invited me and several of his friends to attend the play, Ahh! Rosebud, on Aug 24th. It spoofs Citizen Kane in the form of his sled Rosebud being a demonic, murderous thing causing overly ambitious people to kill, their victims turning into mindless zombies. It was funny and clever, and I enjoyed myself.
A week later I went to see Trinity's band, Out Damned Spot, perform at a cafe I frequented when I worked @ Hollywood Video. They did two sets and sounded good. In fact they sound better in small cafes than in larger venues.
53) Volunteer 50hrs (18/50) Food Bank 4/18/07, Homeless Children (2) 5/2/07, 6/20/07, Sprucing up the Botanical Garden 5/19/07, Breakfast for Abused Children 6/2/07, Fixin' Feral Kitties in Oakland 9/16/07
Last Sunday I volunteered 6 hours at the Oakland SPCA helping a small army of cat lovers spay/neuter 160something felines. I ended up doing the coolest job there, transporting passed out kitties by holding them at the nape of neck with one hand and supporting their bottom with the other. The system works by getting civilians in the area to catch and deliver to the shelter all the feral cats around their neighborhoods. The cats are then divided into male, female, unknown, and sick sections. The sick ones are done last. It was part of my job to determine the sex of the unknowns once they were tranquilized. In order to operate on the cats they spread them on boards with their legs strapped down. It was totally surreal. Here's an article on the subject with a picture.
58) Buy furniture for the deck 9/15/07
This Saturday the design company I work for had a moving sale (we moved from Potrero Hill to SOMA), and I snagged two chairs and a table for the deck. I was willing to pay but they gave them to me for free. They're metal, and rather worn, so I'll have to paint them, but then they'll be really nice.
Friday, August 24, 2007
Day 141
17) Take Acting for Camera class enrolled 7/4/07
Last night everyone in class jotted down their first impressions of me (and I of them). Below is what they came up with:
Flexible
Nice smile
Nice laugh
Makes eye contact
Focused
Not shy
Outgoing (2)
Poised
Funny (2)
Social
Nice
A best friend you can have
Shy in the beginning/out going in the end
"Teacher" in later on life
Sympathetic
A happy person but only shows that when she smiles, which makes you wonder when she doesn't
Nice girl
Smart (3)
Sweet
Kind
Shy (2)
Mellow
Directed
Strong in her convictions
Calm
She gets what she wants
I could not trust her
Patient
There is something about her that makes me think she is stressed up
Shy?!
Fresh
Clean
Perky
Deep thoughts
Knows what she wants to do in life
Reads a lot (well read)
Outdoor type: hiking, running
Friendly
Seems like a vegan collegiate
Seems real sweet & friendly & very honest
Fun
A good sport
Young and playful
Intense
Pretty emotional - but in touch w/her feeling which saves a lot of hassle trying to pry it out of her
Dreamy
Supporting actress
Good delivery
Very easy going
Relaxed attitude
I don't see her as shy at all
Down to earth
Joker maybe
Laid back
Confident
Vegan?
Natural
Cares about others
Knows what she'd talking about
Looks like she likes animals
Happy go lucky young lady
Professional and very determined to make things happen
Goal oriented
Self assured to a point, but always lands on her feet
Talented and driven
Eccentric in her own right
Humble
A lot of these things (like 'knows what she wants to do in life') I wish were true, but feel I'm not quite there yet. It's interesting that I'm projecting those things. I told Serena that confidence is gained by acting confident. I suppose other things can be gained that way too.
At any rate, I'm really enjoying the class.
Last night everyone in class jotted down their first impressions of me (and I of them). Below is what they came up with:
Flexible
Nice smile
Nice laugh
Makes eye contact
Focused
Not shy
Outgoing (2)
Poised
Funny (2)
Social
Nice
A best friend you can have
Shy in the beginning/out going in the end
"Teacher" in later on life
Sympathetic
A happy person but only shows that when she smiles, which makes you wonder when she doesn't
Nice girl
Smart (3)
Sweet
Kind
Shy (2)
Mellow
Directed
Strong in her convictions
Calm
She gets what she wants
I could not trust her
Patient
There is something about her that makes me think she is stressed up
Shy?!
Fresh
Clean
Perky
Deep thoughts
Knows what she wants to do in life
Reads a lot (well read)
Outdoor type: hiking, running
Friendly
Seems like a vegan collegiate
Seems real sweet & friendly & very honest
Fun
A good sport
Young and playful
Intense
Pretty emotional - but in touch w/her feeling which saves a lot of hassle trying to pry it out of her
Dreamy
Supporting actress
Good delivery
Very easy going
Relaxed attitude
I don't see her as shy at all
Down to earth
Joker maybe
Laid back
Confident
Vegan?
Natural
Cares about others
Knows what she'd talking about
Looks like she likes animals
Happy go lucky young lady
Professional and very determined to make things happen
Goal oriented
Self assured to a point, but always lands on her feet
Talented and driven
Eccentric in her own right
Humble
A lot of these things (like 'knows what she wants to do in life') I wish were true, but feel I'm not quite there yet. It's interesting that I'm projecting those things. I told Serena that confidence is gained by acting confident. I suppose other things can be gained that way too.
At any rate, I'm really enjoying the class.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Day 139
This morning, after my yoga class, the instructor approached me while I was changing, as I was the last one there. She asked what brought me to Bikram, so I told her a bit about this list, which she raised her eyebrows curiously about (not necessarily in a good way, but ah well). She then asked how long I'd been practicing. "About two months," I told her. She gasped, which was totally flattering, but I confessed to her I'd been doing Pilates for 5 years before that. She seemed satisfied with this news but then asked if I was a dancer. "No no, before Pilates I did, like nothing, and was really inflexable," I said. As I was putting on my shoes she asked what studio I'd taken Pilates at, and was impressed when I told her I'd learned at home. It felt pretty good being marveled at by my teacher 'cause usually it's the other way around. This one instructor, Elizabeth, gave up a 20 year career and 6 figure income to become a Bikram teacher. I feel lucky that I've learned early in life that having a stressful job, however lucrative or fullfilling, just isn't worth your health and happiness.
Friday, August 17, 2007
Day 134
So my yoga marathon lasted a dozen days before my body began to poop out to the point that my practice was suffering. I went last Friday night against it's wishes and afterward was so exhausted I knew getting up @ 7am Saturday wasn't going to happen. I had plans with my friend Anna, who's visiting from Michigan (where she lives with her husband and two kids), that began @ 1030am in Golden Gate Park, so the 8-930a session was the only class I could make that day. I went Sunday, but when Monday came I thought it best to skip that night too since that class is 7-8:30p, giving me little time to unwind before bed @ 10p. I'm strict about getting 8hrs before getting up for the 6:30a class, which I'm not only diligent about getting up for, I'm excited about. In fact I'm disappointed it's only offered Tues-Thurs. I would go every weekday if I could. But doing the night class and then the morning class 10hrs later is not something I plan to do regularly. I do vow to go at least 5 days a week, and start to incorporate Pilates back into my routine too 'cause I miss it.
Since I've been doing Bikram yoga I sleep soundly, hear better, smell better, focus better, am calmer & more content, stronger (like I've never known strength, particularly in my knees!), and in general really AWARE. Obviously, my body looks faboo and I'm more flexible too. My diet fluctuates. Period time still brings cravings for sweets. In contrast, I've acquired a strong desire for soup.
17) Take Acting for Camera class enrolled 7/4/07
Last night was my first Acting for Camera class. It's going to be a lot more intense than I previously thought. It's goal is to prepare you for professional acting. I'm not worried about the work though, I'm really excited about it. I'll get to do two scenes, a monologue, and a classic piece, along with some smaller assignments. Only 11 of the 18 people enrolled in the class showed up plus 2 adds, which the teacher was bothered by. It's a very diverse and interesting group (a typical occurrence at City college). We played all sorts of games after introducing ourselves. In one of them you mold your partner into a given adjective. The guy I was paired with sculpted me into joy, which required me to lean slightly forward with my legs, arms, and fingers spread wide. Then to top it off he formed a huge smile on my face. I had to maintain this pose until the group finished evaluating the rest of the human sculptures. By the time they guessed what I represented, and I could let down my leaden arms, I was quite relieved. Unfortunately, I have a knot in my back today.
74) Participate: 26 Things
This website is no longer there. I'm not going to despair. All I need is a list of 26 things I can then interpret through photographs. Anyone want to make me a list?
Ooh, another thought, maybe I could paint those 26 things instead... or I could do both. I still need a list though. Anyone? Ajectives and verbs are welcome along with nouns.
Since I've been doing Bikram yoga I sleep soundly, hear better, smell better, focus better, am calmer & more content, stronger (like I've never known strength, particularly in my knees!), and in general really AWARE. Obviously, my body looks faboo and I'm more flexible too. My diet fluctuates. Period time still brings cravings for sweets. In contrast, I've acquired a strong desire for soup.
17) Take Acting for Camera class enrolled 7/4/07
Last night was my first Acting for Camera class. It's going to be a lot more intense than I previously thought. It's goal is to prepare you for professional acting. I'm not worried about the work though, I'm really excited about it. I'll get to do two scenes, a monologue, and a classic piece, along with some smaller assignments. Only 11 of the 18 people enrolled in the class showed up plus 2 adds, which the teacher was bothered by. It's a very diverse and interesting group (a typical occurrence at City college). We played all sorts of games after introducing ourselves. In one of them you mold your partner into a given adjective. The guy I was paired with sculpted me into joy, which required me to lean slightly forward with my legs, arms, and fingers spread wide. Then to top it off he formed a huge smile on my face. I had to maintain this pose until the group finished evaluating the rest of the human sculptures. By the time they guessed what I represented, and I could let down my leaden arms, I was quite relieved. Unfortunately, I have a knot in my back today.
74) Participate: 26 Things
This website is no longer there. I'm not going to despair. All I need is a list of 26 things I can then interpret through photographs. Anyone want to make me a list?
Ooh, another thought, maybe I could paint those 26 things instead... or I could do both. I still need a list though. Anyone? Ajectives and verbs are welcome along with nouns.
Friday, August 10, 2007
Wednesday, August 8, 2007
Day 125
8) Eliminate acne Nature's Gate Organics Acne Treatment System purchased 5/3/07; Zinc supplement arrived 6/22/07; started Bikram yoga 6/23/07
According to all the articles I've read on adult acne, the skin should clear up after 3 months of using most topical acne fighting systems. I chose the one I did because I wanted to do it as naturally as possible, plus my skin has grown a tolerance to Pro-active. The skin has cleared completely around my forehead, upper cheeks and nose, but I still get outbreaks once a month (at that time of the month), that last about a week, around my chin, mouth, and lower cheeks. I've been taking the Zinc supplement a bit over a month now to fight from the inside, but whether or not it's helping I can't tell. It seems like my scars have gotten paler though. The yoga should theoretically eradicate acne with the reduction of stress and detoxing. But I worry about the heat and sweat being an irritant. It's possible that my diet is a factor, as when I went off sugar for 7 months it cleared up significantly only to go berserk in the last 2 months. This could have been that I stopped taking birth control at that time, which I was only taking to fight acne by balancing my hormones. I went back on the pill 6 months ago with no effect (accept my PMS is significantly lessened), but now I've stopped that so I can afford yoga. You know, I just don't care what my face looks like anymore. I have to admit that I don't really have control over it, as exerting all the control I do have gets me inconsistent results. The other thing is I keep thinking it's my fault. Like it's being caused by something I just haven't put my finger on, and once I stop doing that thing, or resolve that thing, it'll go away. I've still yet to do acupuncture and a cleanse, but in the meantime I just don't want to think about it.
46) Create a filing system for all your papers 8/5/07
I bought 2 files with 7 deep pockets each, labeled each pocket, and then filed my papers in their corresponding pockets. Voilà !
92) Attend 10 live performances (2/10) SF Mime Troupe: Making A Killing 7/4/07; Aladdin Jr. 8/4/07
This Saturday I joined with a good chunk of my family to see my niece perform in Aladdin Jr. She played one of the guards that chases Aladdin about in the beginning and follows Jafar's orders throughout. I was very amused that both the girl playing the carpet and the guy playing the genie could do flips! The theater was laid out so the stage was center and the seats surrounded it, like a coliseum. The play was much like the movie with a few changes here and there. Delaney (my niece) was very good about staying in character, while some of the others on stage looked bored.
33) Complete 35 books: 5 must be from Banned-books(0/5); 5 must be from Guardian's top 100 books (0/5); 5 you must already own (0/5); Total - (3/35) What Would You Do If You Had No Fear, by Diane Conway 5/2/07; Healing Emotions:Conversations With the Dalai Lama on Mindfulness, Emotions, and Health, Edited by: Daniel Goleman 6/28/07 Bikram's Beginning Yoga Class, by Bikram Choudhury 8/6/07
At the beginning of the week I finished Bikram's Beginning Yoga Class, which I bought thinking I'd do the routine at home. Before even going into the postures Bikram emphasizes the need for a heated room. The heat is there so A) you don't hurt yourself and B) you get the maximum stretch possible. I knew no plausible way to regularly heat a part of my apartment to even 80%, let alone 100%, so I was back in class three days after this book arrived in the mail. Another part of the book that got me... theme I should say, is the one where you do Bikram's yoga everyday for two months. I resisted this request at first, but Maggie was there to over hear me say, "but I'll probably try for 5 times a week." "No," she said calmly, "I think you should do it everyday." Having never experienced a Bikram class herself, I'm sure it was easier for her to commit me to such a daunting task. Nevertheless, I had to step up to the challenge. And here I am 10 days into my yoga marathon. This book stays at my bedside where it can inspire me each night; particularly Mon thru Wed nights, since the following mornings I have to rise at 6am. Granted I could go to the 7pm rather than the 630am class, but when my acting class starts, Tues and Thurs nights will be taken. So, how do I feel? At the moment I'm really tired. It could be physical exhaustion, or it could be that there's nothing to do here at work besides stare at this screen (half the office is on Vac, and August is our slowest month, for similar reasons). Nevertheless I have an overwhelming urge to take a nap. On the plus side I'm totally relaxed, clear headed, and I think I can hear better...
According to all the articles I've read on adult acne, the skin should clear up after 3 months of using most topical acne fighting systems. I chose the one I did because I wanted to do it as naturally as possible, plus my skin has grown a tolerance to Pro-active. The skin has cleared completely around my forehead, upper cheeks and nose, but I still get outbreaks once a month (at that time of the month), that last about a week, around my chin, mouth, and lower cheeks. I've been taking the Zinc supplement a bit over a month now to fight from the inside, but whether or not it's helping I can't tell. It seems like my scars have gotten paler though. The yoga should theoretically eradicate acne with the reduction of stress and detoxing. But I worry about the heat and sweat being an irritant. It's possible that my diet is a factor, as when I went off sugar for 7 months it cleared up significantly only to go berserk in the last 2 months. This could have been that I stopped taking birth control at that time, which I was only taking to fight acne by balancing my hormones. I went back on the pill 6 months ago with no effect (accept my PMS is significantly lessened), but now I've stopped that so I can afford yoga. You know, I just don't care what my face looks like anymore. I have to admit that I don't really have control over it, as exerting all the control I do have gets me inconsistent results. The other thing is I keep thinking it's my fault. Like it's being caused by something I just haven't put my finger on, and once I stop doing that thing, or resolve that thing, it'll go away. I've still yet to do acupuncture and a cleanse, but in the meantime I just don't want to think about it.
46) Create a filing system for all your papers 8/5/07
I bought 2 files with 7 deep pockets each, labeled each pocket, and then filed my papers in their corresponding pockets. Voilà !
92) Attend 10 live performances (2/10) SF Mime Troupe: Making A Killing 7/4/07; Aladdin Jr. 8/4/07
This Saturday I joined with a good chunk of my family to see my niece perform in Aladdin Jr. She played one of the guards that chases Aladdin about in the beginning and follows Jafar's orders throughout. I was very amused that both the girl playing the carpet and the guy playing the genie could do flips! The theater was laid out so the stage was center and the seats surrounded it, like a coliseum. The play was much like the movie with a few changes here and there. Delaney (my niece) was very good about staying in character, while some of the others on stage looked bored.
33) Complete 35 books: 5 must be from Banned-books(0/5); 5 must be from Guardian's top 100 books (0/5); 5 you must already own (0/5); Total - (3/35) What Would You Do If You Had No Fear, by Diane Conway 5/2/07; Healing Emotions:Conversations With the Dalai Lama on Mindfulness, Emotions, and Health, Edited by: Daniel Goleman 6/28/07 Bikram's Beginning Yoga Class, by Bikram Choudhury 8/6/07
At the beginning of the week I finished Bikram's Beginning Yoga Class, which I bought thinking I'd do the routine at home. Before even going into the postures Bikram emphasizes the need for a heated room. The heat is there so A) you don't hurt yourself and B) you get the maximum stretch possible. I knew no plausible way to regularly heat a part of my apartment to even 80%, let alone 100%, so I was back in class three days after this book arrived in the mail. Another part of the book that got me... theme I should say, is the one where you do Bikram's yoga everyday for two months. I resisted this request at first, but Maggie was there to over hear me say, "but I'll probably try for 5 times a week." "No," she said calmly, "I think you should do it everyday." Having never experienced a Bikram class herself, I'm sure it was easier for her to commit me to such a daunting task. Nevertheless, I had to step up to the challenge. And here I am 10 days into my yoga marathon. This book stays at my bedside where it can inspire me each night; particularly Mon thru Wed nights, since the following mornings I have to rise at 6am. Granted I could go to the 7pm rather than the 630am class, but when my acting class starts, Tues and Thurs nights will be taken. So, how do I feel? At the moment I'm really tired. It could be physical exhaustion, or it could be that there's nothing to do here at work besides stare at this screen (half the office is on Vac, and August is our slowest month, for similar reasons). Nevertheless I have an overwhelming urge to take a nap. On the plus side I'm totally relaxed, clear headed, and I think I can hear better...
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
Day 118
I've been so engaged in living life lately I've neglected this blog (in comparison to how I had been attending to it). The main reason is I've had so much to do at work (imagine that). But I finally completed this massive list of all the realtors in the city who use our services (my boss is going to invite them to a party). I had to combine all the contact info we have for them while filling in the blanks with what I could find on the Internet. I ended up with 133 realtors and learned just how corporate real estate is. So here I am with some down time.
17) Take Acting for Camera class enrolled 7/4/07
A couple semesters ago I took a beginning acting class @ City which I thoroughly enjoyed. I enrolled the following spring for this Acting for Camera class, but Maggie went into labor the day of the first class (which didn't go as smoothly as planned), so I decided to postpone it. I'll be taking it this semester every Tues & Thurs night.
31) Take a yoga class - began 6/23/07; 6/25/07; 6/28/07; 6/30/07; 6/1/07; 7/3/07; 7/5/07; 7/7/07; 7/8/07; 7/10/07; 7/12/07; 7/14/07; 7/15/07; 7/17/07; 7/19/07
I finished my $30 dollar month of Bikram yoga having fully taken advantage; so much, in fact, that I bought a book on it thinking I'd continue at home. But once I started reading the book, which stresses doing it in a heated room to prevent injury (among going on and on about it's countless benefits), I realized I wouldn't be able to create so intense an environment in my apartment (which is cool even during heat waves). I got depressed and my body seemed to laugh at the one round of Pilates I did last week. It also kept throwing me into Bikram poses, out of sequence, and not warmed up. I realized after discussing it with my sister, that it's totally worth the $90 bucks a month (though not the $150! for non-students). So Monday evening I forked over the money, almost fainting during the session (having been out of practice for over a week), but I was back there @ 630am the next day!... and again @ 630am today! I feel fantastic, all warm and fuzzy like you do after a long swim, though I hurt all over... it's totally worth it.
36) Visit Disneyland 7/21-7/22/07
Maggie, Randy, Lucy and I had plans to visit my dad and his wife a couple weeks ago that were ruined by my drug addicted half brother moving in with them (who none of us wanted to spend days in the presence of). Please excuse my lack of compassion, but the man has hit on several members of our family including yours truly. The last time I saw him, two X-mas' ago, he was looking me up and down saying, "wow, wow" while also calling me a "little princess" in regard to the amount of presents my father got me. My sister wrote him a letter years before that recognizing the downward spiral he was on, trying to reach out, and he snubbed her. People who blame everyone and everything around them, making no effort to change or take responsibility for themselves, are my pet peeve. In fact they're a huge part of what's wrong with the world.
So Maggie, Randy, and I, in an almost contradictory state of self pity, dejection, and frustration from our father choosing his ill fated son over time with us and his newest grandchild, took a trip to Disneyland none of us could afford. We had a blast, of course, even meeting up with out aunt, Pam, and our brother Steve and his family (they go to Disneyland like most people go to the movies). And it was totally worth it.
55) Take Moira out 20 times (2/20) 4/13/07; 7/14/07
A few weekends ago I used, for the 1st time, a Zoo membership card given to me by Kate, who I worked with at Hollywood Video. It got Maggie, Moira, Lucy and I in, and Randy used one of the free passes that comes with membership. Moira loves animals, so I figured it'd be a good outing for her. She enjoyed touching various critters on the wildlife walk in the Children's Zoo, and was also keen on the Insect Zoo. We took her to her Nana and Opa's house afterwards (my mom and Roger's), and Roger took us all out to sushi. Yum!
88) Attend 10 year high school reunion
The latest correspondence on this one:
Hey Amber,
Have you heard anything more about a reunion of class o' 97?? would you keep me posted if you do. I'd really appreciate it.
Thanks a mil,
Jennifer
My Response:
Hey Jennifer
You know... I haven't, and they're really running short on time, as far as invitations, if it's going to be in August. I'll try contacting that e-mail address Ron gave Trin, but we might have to take matters into our own hands.
-Amber
I write to Ron:
Hi Ron,
Since I posted that bulletin on MySpace regarding the '97 reunion alot of alumni have contacted me. I sent them the e-mail you wrote Trinity in response, but it's now August and no one's received any sort of invitation. Do you know what's going on? How can I help get the ball rolling?
-Amber
Ron's response:
Hi Amber,
I've been out of town for work, so I'm not quite sure what has happened with the reunion planning. I was told by Mr. Rosenblatt that they had people working on it, but let me make a few phone calls, and I will get back to you ASAP.
I know that there is some money to help pay for things with the reunion, so if nothing has happened, I'll be in touch with you so we can get something going.
Hope all is well with you,
Ron
And now we play the waiting game...
17) Take Acting for Camera class enrolled 7/4/07
A couple semesters ago I took a beginning acting class @ City which I thoroughly enjoyed. I enrolled the following spring for this Acting for Camera class, but Maggie went into labor the day of the first class (which didn't go as smoothly as planned), so I decided to postpone it. I'll be taking it this semester every Tues & Thurs night.
31) Take a yoga class - began 6/23/07; 6/25/07; 6/28/07; 6/30/07; 6/1/07; 7/3/07; 7/5/07; 7/7/07; 7/8/07; 7/10/07; 7/12/07; 7/14/07; 7/15/07; 7/17/07; 7/19/07
I finished my $30 dollar month of Bikram yoga having fully taken advantage; so much, in fact, that I bought a book on it thinking I'd continue at home. But once I started reading the book, which stresses doing it in a heated room to prevent injury (among going on and on about it's countless benefits), I realized I wouldn't be able to create so intense an environment in my apartment (which is cool even during heat waves). I got depressed and my body seemed to laugh at the one round of Pilates I did last week. It also kept throwing me into Bikram poses, out of sequence, and not warmed up. I realized after discussing it with my sister, that it's totally worth the $90 bucks a month (though not the $150! for non-students). So Monday evening I forked over the money, almost fainting during the session (having been out of practice for over a week), but I was back there @ 630am the next day!... and again @ 630am today! I feel fantastic, all warm and fuzzy like you do after a long swim, though I hurt all over... it's totally worth it.
36) Visit Disneyland 7/21-7/22/07
Maggie, Randy, Lucy and I had plans to visit my dad and his wife a couple weeks ago that were ruined by my drug addicted half brother moving in with them (who none of us wanted to spend days in the presence of). Please excuse my lack of compassion, but the man has hit on several members of our family including yours truly. The last time I saw him, two X-mas' ago, he was looking me up and down saying, "wow, wow" while also calling me a "little princess" in regard to the amount of presents my father got me. My sister wrote him a letter years before that recognizing the downward spiral he was on, trying to reach out, and he snubbed her. People who blame everyone and everything around them, making no effort to change or take responsibility for themselves, are my pet peeve. In fact they're a huge part of what's wrong with the world.
So Maggie, Randy, and I, in an almost contradictory state of self pity, dejection, and frustration from our father choosing his ill fated son over time with us and his newest grandchild, took a trip to Disneyland none of us could afford. We had a blast, of course, even meeting up with out aunt, Pam, and our brother Steve and his family (they go to Disneyland like most people go to the movies). And it was totally worth it.
55) Take Moira out 20 times (2/20) 4/13/07; 7/14/07
A few weekends ago I used, for the 1st time, a Zoo membership card given to me by Kate, who I worked with at Hollywood Video. It got Maggie, Moira, Lucy and I in, and Randy used one of the free passes that comes with membership. Moira loves animals, so I figured it'd be a good outing for her. She enjoyed touching various critters on the wildlife walk in the Children's Zoo, and was also keen on the Insect Zoo. We took her to her Nana and Opa's house afterwards (my mom and Roger's), and Roger took us all out to sushi. Yum!
88) Attend 10 year high school reunion
The latest correspondence on this one:
Hey Amber,
Have you heard anything more about a reunion of class o' 97?? would you keep me posted if you do. I'd really appreciate it.
Thanks a mil,
Jennifer
My Response:
Hey Jennifer
You know... I haven't, and they're really running short on time, as far as invitations, if it's going to be in August. I'll try contacting that e-mail address Ron gave Trin, but we might have to take matters into our own hands.
-Amber
I write to Ron:
Hi Ron,
Since I posted that bulletin on MySpace regarding the '97 reunion alot of alumni have contacted me. I sent them the e-mail you wrote Trinity in response, but it's now August and no one's received any sort of invitation. Do you know what's going on? How can I help get the ball rolling?
-Amber
Ron's response:
Hi Amber,
I've been out of town for work, so I'm not quite sure what has happened with the reunion planning. I was told by Mr. Rosenblatt that they had people working on it, but let me make a few phone calls, and I will get back to you ASAP.
I know that there is some money to help pay for things with the reunion, so if nothing has happened, I'll be in touch with you so we can get something going.
Hope all is well with you,
Ron
And now we play the waiting game...
Thursday, July 12, 2007
Day 98
I found this site that tests you and places you on a politics chart. I line up with the Dali Lama, am directly below Gahndi, and fall not far from Nelson Mandela (equaling a kind of liberal leftist):
Political Compass
How about you?
Political Compass
How about you?
Friday, July 6, 2007
Day 92
92) Attend 10 live performances (1/10) SF Mime Troupe: Making A Killing 7/4/07
On the fourth of July I met Trinity and her friends to watch the SF Mime Troupe perform Making A Killing in Dolores Park. It was my first time seeing them, and I was impressed. The story comments on the responsibility we have to countries we invade and influence as we have a negative impact more often than not. It really took a stabbing at the Bush administration (what doesn't these days?), particularly Dick Cheney. It was very humorous... and a little saddening, though often humor springs from sadness... you know, in coping. Over lunch the other day Zack and I were discussing how comedians are the revolutionaries of our time, though not solely our time, when you think of say, Shakespeare, and even in Rome live theater was used to poke fun at those in power. But when the laughter subsides I'm left wondering how things are really going to change for the better.
On the fourth of July I met Trinity and her friends to watch the SF Mime Troupe perform Making A Killing in Dolores Park. It was my first time seeing them, and I was impressed. The story comments on the responsibility we have to countries we invade and influence as we have a negative impact more often than not. It really took a stabbing at the Bush administration (what doesn't these days?), particularly Dick Cheney. It was very humorous... and a little saddening, though often humor springs from sadness... you know, in coping. Over lunch the other day Zack and I were discussing how comedians are the revolutionaries of our time, though not solely our time, when you think of say, Shakespeare, and even in Rome live theater was used to poke fun at those in power. But when the laughter subsides I'm left wondering how things are really going to change for the better.
Friday, June 29, 2007
Day 85
31) Take a yoga class began 6/23/07; 6/25/07; 6/28/07
I learned the hard way yesterday that it pays to get to yoga class early lest you end up in the "hot spot". As it'd taken me some time to find parking, I was so relieved to see this large chunk of floor amongst the crowd when I walked in the room. And I started out so strong expecting the intense but tolerable warmth I'd experienced in the previous two classes. Then, about 5 poses in my body felt like an inferno and I began to waver in what had been an extremely strong pose for me a couple nights before. I didn't give up, and even excelled at some of the following poses, but the heat remained crippling from then on. The reason for this is the spot I was in was in direct line with the windows and door to the outside and had been baked by the unclouded sun all day. The instructor took pity on me and the girl directly behind me a few time by fanning open the door, but these short bouts of relief only kept me yearning for the next one. Afterwards, of course, I felt fantastic, and pampered myself with a lavender oil salt scrub in the shower. However, I'll scornfully avoid that spot and those surrounding it from now on.
33) Complete 35 books: 5 must be from Banned-books(0/5); 5 must be from Guardian's top 100 books (0/5); 5 you must already own (0/5); Total - (2/35) What Would You Do If You Had No Fear, by Diane Conway 5/2/07; Healing Emotions:Conversations With the Dalai Lama on Mindfulness, Emotions, and Health, Edited by: Daniel Goleman 6/28/07
What can I say? The Dalai Lama is awesome and this book is full of his wit and insight. I wasn't happy to learn about the emotional experiments done on animals though. I already practiced mindfulness (a main topic discussed) without knowing, but meditation is not yet in my grasp. Yoga helps though, because it's hard to think of anything while holding those positions. During Pilates my mind is all over the place. I understand now how yoga unites the body and mind while Pilates becomes more atomatic. But I degress from the book... sort of. The primary thing I got from it is a peaked interest in yoga and meditation.
I learned the hard way yesterday that it pays to get to yoga class early lest you end up in the "hot spot". As it'd taken me some time to find parking, I was so relieved to see this large chunk of floor amongst the crowd when I walked in the room. And I started out so strong expecting the intense but tolerable warmth I'd experienced in the previous two classes. Then, about 5 poses in my body felt like an inferno and I began to waver in what had been an extremely strong pose for me a couple nights before. I didn't give up, and even excelled at some of the following poses, but the heat remained crippling from then on. The reason for this is the spot I was in was in direct line with the windows and door to the outside and had been baked by the unclouded sun all day. The instructor took pity on me and the girl directly behind me a few time by fanning open the door, but these short bouts of relief only kept me yearning for the next one. Afterwards, of course, I felt fantastic, and pampered myself with a lavender oil salt scrub in the shower. However, I'll scornfully avoid that spot and those surrounding it from now on.
33) Complete 35 books: 5 must be from Banned-books(0/5); 5 must be from Guardian's top 100 books (0/5); 5 you must already own (0/5); Total - (2/35) What Would You Do If You Had No Fear, by Diane Conway 5/2/07; Healing Emotions:Conversations With the Dalai Lama on Mindfulness, Emotions, and Health, Edited by: Daniel Goleman 6/28/07
What can I say? The Dalai Lama is awesome and this book is full of his wit and insight. I wasn't happy to learn about the emotional experiments done on animals though. I already practiced mindfulness (a main topic discussed) without knowing, but meditation is not yet in my grasp. Yoga helps though, because it's hard to think of anything while holding those positions. During Pilates my mind is all over the place. I understand now how yoga unites the body and mind while Pilates becomes more atomatic. But I degress from the book... sort of. The primary thing I got from it is a peaked interest in yoga and meditation.
Wednesday, June 27, 2007
Day 83
10) Master 10 dinner recipes (0/10) Baked Chicken Breast with Honey Mustard Sauce & Fennel Green Beans (3); Stir Fried Chicken & Asparagus w/Seaweed Rice (1); 15 Minute Salmon with Mint Salsa and Minted Carrots with Pumpkin Seeds (1)
On Sunday I traveled to the East Bay to visit Maggie, Randy, and Lucy. When our dinner plans with Ritch and Leida fell through due to Leida developing an Appendicitis, they asked me to make dinner instead. With Randy's assitance I made 15 Minute Salmon with Mint Salsa and Minted Carrots with Pumpkin Seeds. The carrots had a remarkably addictive flavor, Maggie couldn't get enough of them. The pan cooking method for the salmon was a little trying, as I ended up cooking the salmon almost three times longer than suggested, but it turned out fine. Like usual, the sense of freshness these recipes give is uncanny. I feel like I'm getting a good groundbase for creating healthy recipes of my own too.
I think it's worth mentioning we've twice made a desert from this site as well, Very Berry Delight. The first time Randy and I mixed the berries with the pudding fixings to chill, which made tasty but slightly watery pudding. This Sunday we got it right and it was just decadent.
31) Take a yoga class began 6/23/07
So I found out that this Yoga place (Bikram Yoga) I've walked by dozens of times offers an introductory 30 days for $30. This Saturday I went ahead and signed up, though was mildly alerted by all the waivers I had to sign, particularly that the room can rise to 110 degrees. But I bravely carried through despite this ruthless testing of endurance, and managed to keep up with the class on all but a couple of the 26 positions. I should add that we do each of these positions twice over 90 minutes. Directly after I felt fabulous and continued to the next day regardles of the pain all over. I went back Mon night, granted still rather sore, hence dificulty with the standing work, but I still got through, dripping everywhere like a leaky faucet. Apparently these positions in conjunction with the heat enable your body to heal itself, too, not to mention the detox from the sweat.
On Sunday I traveled to the East Bay to visit Maggie, Randy, and Lucy. When our dinner plans with Ritch and Leida fell through due to Leida developing an Appendicitis, they asked me to make dinner instead. With Randy's assitance I made 15 Minute Salmon with Mint Salsa and Minted Carrots with Pumpkin Seeds. The carrots had a remarkably addictive flavor, Maggie couldn't get enough of them. The pan cooking method for the salmon was a little trying, as I ended up cooking the salmon almost three times longer than suggested, but it turned out fine. Like usual, the sense of freshness these recipes give is uncanny. I feel like I'm getting a good groundbase for creating healthy recipes of my own too.
I think it's worth mentioning we've twice made a desert from this site as well, Very Berry Delight. The first time Randy and I mixed the berries with the pudding fixings to chill, which made tasty but slightly watery pudding. This Sunday we got it right and it was just decadent.
31) Take a yoga class began 6/23/07
So I found out that this Yoga place (Bikram Yoga) I've walked by dozens of times offers an introductory 30 days for $30. This Saturday I went ahead and signed up, though was mildly alerted by all the waivers I had to sign, particularly that the room can rise to 110 degrees. But I bravely carried through despite this ruthless testing of endurance, and managed to keep up with the class on all but a couple of the 26 positions. I should add that we do each of these positions twice over 90 minutes. Directly after I felt fabulous and continued to the next day regardles of the pain all over. I went back Mon night, granted still rather sore, hence dificulty with the standing work, but I still got through, dripping everywhere like a leaky faucet. Apparently these positions in conjunction with the heat enable your body to heal itself, too, not to mention the detox from the sweat.
Thursday, June 21, 2007
Day 77
53) Volunteer 50hrs (12/50) Food Bank 4/18/07, Homeless Children (2) 5/2/07, 6/20/07, Sprucing up the Botanical Garden 5/19/07, Breakfast for Abused Children 6/2/07
Yesterday evening I participated in St. Joseph's Village Cooking and Art Fun! for the second time. This time there were a lot more kids and we focused more on the art than cooking fun. There were eight children total: brothers Junior and Marco, siblings Honey, Carolina, and Richard, brother and sister Precious and Randy, and last but not least, Victor (the only one I'd met previously). An art teacher named Mark was there with a couple projects. This man actually sewed together a quilt from fabrics that emulated the sea. Around the border of the quilt he'd interlaced a rope. We sat in a circle gripping the quilt spread between us, lifting it up and down to cause waves, while Mark read:
Down deep below the sea are the strangest fish you ever did see! Some are very small and move really fast. Some are very big and move really slow. Let's try to catch one we all know!
Then we'd all close our eyes and chant: I wish, I wish, I wish for a fish!
Mark would tap one of the kids on the shoulder instructing them to get under the quilt. And we'd open our eyes to see we had caught a fish! The kids loved it, though they all wanted to be under the quilt in the end.
For the second activity we rolled butcher paper out on the floor, taping it there, and proceeded to trace each other lying in crazy positions. As the kids grew bored with it and drifted toward the other toys I showed Honey and Carolina how to mix colors (ie: blue & yellow = green). Then the two girls made me a plastic feast as I read to them.
From an analytical perspective I observed how close in age the siblings are, Junior and Marco are less than a year apart, and got to thinking someone should introduce mom and dad to this invention called the condom.
88) Attend 10 year high school reunion
This summer happens to be that of my high school reunion, but having heard nothing about it, and having read nothing about it on the SOTA website I felt compelled to post this on MySpace:
Subject: ATTN SOTA alumni (repost please)
Body:
As you may have noticed, SOTA has ceased having it's yearly reunions.
This didn't really bother me until this summer, which would be the time of my 10 year reunion.
You see, I've made this list giving myself 101 things to do in the next 900some days (I've had alot of free time at work), and Attend 10 Year Highschool Reunion is #88.
So I ask you to humor me people. Lets assemble, somehow, somewhere, sometime this summer. At a bar, or club, or park, or coffee shop... the beach perhaps.
Let me know if you're in or around SF and interested in attending, or even helping me organize.
-Amber
Luckily, after not so many responses, Trin sent me this:
hey trinity
Can you pass on that SOTA has not ceased having reunions. the class reunions are typically held in august, because that's when people have requested reunions be held due to folks with kids, work schedules, etc.
Mr. Rosenblatt has contacted your class officers [who have historically been in charge of planning reunions with the alumni association, who funds the reunion], and they have begun working on putting together the 10 year reunion for the class of '97. If anyone is interested working on the reunion planning committee, please have them contact me at ron.mccan@gmail.com.
Thanks darlin'!
- Ron
Vice-President
SOTA Alumni Association
So sometime in Aug I'll fulfill this goal. Phew!
Yesterday evening I participated in St. Joseph's Village Cooking and Art Fun! for the second time. This time there were a lot more kids and we focused more on the art than cooking fun. There were eight children total: brothers Junior and Marco, siblings Honey, Carolina, and Richard, brother and sister Precious and Randy, and last but not least, Victor (the only one I'd met previously). An art teacher named Mark was there with a couple projects. This man actually sewed together a quilt from fabrics that emulated the sea. Around the border of the quilt he'd interlaced a rope. We sat in a circle gripping the quilt spread between us, lifting it up and down to cause waves, while Mark read:
Down deep below the sea are the strangest fish you ever did see! Some are very small and move really fast. Some are very big and move really slow. Let's try to catch one we all know!
Then we'd all close our eyes and chant: I wish, I wish, I wish for a fish!
Mark would tap one of the kids on the shoulder instructing them to get under the quilt. And we'd open our eyes to see we had caught a fish! The kids loved it, though they all wanted to be under the quilt in the end.
For the second activity we rolled butcher paper out on the floor, taping it there, and proceeded to trace each other lying in crazy positions. As the kids grew bored with it and drifted toward the other toys I showed Honey and Carolina how to mix colors (ie: blue & yellow = green). Then the two girls made me a plastic feast as I read to them.
From an analytical perspective I observed how close in age the siblings are, Junior and Marco are less than a year apart, and got to thinking someone should introduce mom and dad to this invention called the condom.
88) Attend 10 year high school reunion
This summer happens to be that of my high school reunion, but having heard nothing about it, and having read nothing about it on the SOTA website I felt compelled to post this on MySpace:
Subject: ATTN SOTA alumni (repost please)
Body:
As you may have noticed, SOTA has ceased having it's yearly reunions.
This didn't really bother me until this summer, which would be the time of my 10 year reunion.
You see, I've made this list giving myself 101 things to do in the next 900some days (I've had alot of free time at work), and Attend 10 Year Highschool Reunion is #88.
So I ask you to humor me people. Lets assemble, somehow, somewhere, sometime this summer. At a bar, or club, or park, or coffee shop... the beach perhaps.
Let me know if you're in or around SF and interested in attending, or even helping me organize.
-Amber
Luckily, after not so many responses, Trin sent me this:
hey trinity
Can you pass on that SOTA has not ceased having reunions. the class reunions are typically held in august, because that's when people have requested reunions be held due to folks with kids, work schedules, etc.
Mr. Rosenblatt has contacted your class officers [who have historically been in charge of planning reunions with the alumni association, who funds the reunion], and they have begun working on putting together the 10 year reunion for the class of '97. If anyone is interested working on the reunion planning committee, please have them contact me at ron.mccan@gmail.com.
Thanks darlin'!
- Ron
Vice-President
SOTA Alumni Association
So sometime in Aug I'll fulfill this goal. Phew!
Monday, June 18, 2007
Day 74
10) Master 10 dinner recipes (0/10) Baked Chicken Breast with Honey Mustard Sauce & Fennel Green Beans (3); Stir Fried Chicken & Asparagus w/Seaweed Rice (1)
I spent the last week and a half living with Maggie and Randy so I could care for Lucy while Mag went back to work and Randy was finishing up school (he teaches 4th grade). Maggie was stressed about how her employers would react to her decision to give her two weeks in order to become a full time mom. Then she became further stressed when she realized she needed to leave asap, giving a one day notice Wednesday. So I cooked them healthy meals to take the edge off. Saturday I made Baked Chicken Breast with Honey Mustard Sauce over Spinach and Wednesday night I made Stir Fried Chicken & Asparagus with Seaweed Rice for the first time. The chicken was slightly overcooked and next time I'll go heavier on the sauce, but the seaweed rice was perfect.
12) Master 10 lunch recipes (0/10) Greek Garbanzo Bean Salad (1); Mediterranean Pasta Salad (1); Red Kidney Bean Soup with Lime Yogurt (2)
On Monday night I made Red Kidney Bean Soup with Lime Yogurt for the second time. I went a little easier on the garlic, it got rave reviews. I made enough to have leftovers Tues night and served that with salad.
I spent the last week and a half living with Maggie and Randy so I could care for Lucy while Mag went back to work and Randy was finishing up school (he teaches 4th grade). Maggie was stressed about how her employers would react to her decision to give her two weeks in order to become a full time mom. Then she became further stressed when she realized she needed to leave asap, giving a one day notice Wednesday. So I cooked them healthy meals to take the edge off. Saturday I made Baked Chicken Breast with Honey Mustard Sauce over Spinach and Wednesday night I made Stir Fried Chicken & Asparagus with Seaweed Rice for the first time. The chicken was slightly overcooked and next time I'll go heavier on the sauce, but the seaweed rice was perfect.
12) Master 10 lunch recipes (0/10) Greek Garbanzo Bean Salad (1); Mediterranean Pasta Salad (1); Red Kidney Bean Soup with Lime Yogurt (2)
On Monday night I made Red Kidney Bean Soup with Lime Yogurt for the second time. I went a little easier on the garlic, it got rave reviews. I made enough to have leftovers Tues night and served that with salad.
Sunday, June 3, 2007
Day 59
64) Schedule appointment to see if you qualify for Laser Eye Surgery; if yes, begin saving for and have procedure; if no, contacts: appointment on 5/26/07; contact fitting on 5/30/07
Finished! (I love them!)
53) Volunteer 50hrs (10/50) Food Bank 4/18/07, Homeless Children 5/2/07, Sprucing up the Botanical Garden 5/19/07, Breakfast for Abused Children 6/2/07
Saturday morning I got up and headed to the Edgewood Center to help make breakfast for abused, neglected, and troubled youth. The children there are split into four different cottages according to age. I, along with a couple named Bryan and Kelly, was in a cottage for 8-12 year olds. We made the kids scrambled eggs, hash browns, and fruit salad. Kelly is an international accountant who's hobby is cooking, while Bryan is a handyman and aspiring song writer/musician. They're getting married in Mexico next September. International weddings are the new thing apparently. Sounds good to me. I got along with them famously, and boy, can we make a mean batch of scrambled eggs. Unfortunately the bananas were bruised and browning, and we couldn't get our hash browns to brown or crisp. Meeting the kids was intense as their behavior was erratic and troubling. I bonded a little with an obese kid named Gregory, a purist and strawberry enthusiast. He played a game with me where he had me guess his favorite chips, slushy flavor, and fruit (besides strawberries). When asked to receipted I had to regress to a time I ate chips and drank slushies. I came up with cherry cola and Doritos Cool Ranch. He wanted to play a board game with me after we finished eating, but I had somewhere to be. It didn't feel good to disappoint him, but I'll go back. Situations like that call to me, "Amber, get a certification in counseling, degree in psychology, SOMETHING. You're needed." On the other hand, Bryan mentioned to me painting furniture is a very lucrative business, particularly for children. Thankfully, these two paths aren't mutually exclusive.
77) Walk on the beach 2 times a week for a month (8/8) 5/6/07, 5/12/07, 5/18/07, 5/19/07, 5/20/07, 5/23/07, 5/29/07, 6/2/07
Finished!
Finished! (I love them!)
53) Volunteer 50hrs (10/50) Food Bank 4/18/07, Homeless Children 5/2/07, Sprucing up the Botanical Garden 5/19/07, Breakfast for Abused Children 6/2/07
Saturday morning I got up and headed to the Edgewood Center to help make breakfast for abused, neglected, and troubled youth. The children there are split into four different cottages according to age. I, along with a couple named Bryan and Kelly, was in a cottage for 8-12 year olds. We made the kids scrambled eggs, hash browns, and fruit salad. Kelly is an international accountant who's hobby is cooking, while Bryan is a handyman and aspiring song writer/musician. They're getting married in Mexico next September. International weddings are the new thing apparently. Sounds good to me. I got along with them famously, and boy, can we make a mean batch of scrambled eggs. Unfortunately the bananas were bruised and browning, and we couldn't get our hash browns to brown or crisp. Meeting the kids was intense as their behavior was erratic and troubling. I bonded a little with an obese kid named Gregory, a purist and strawberry enthusiast. He played a game with me where he had me guess his favorite chips, slushy flavor, and fruit (besides strawberries). When asked to receipted I had to regress to a time I ate chips and drank slushies. I came up with cherry cola and Doritos Cool Ranch. He wanted to play a board game with me after we finished eating, but I had somewhere to be. It didn't feel good to disappoint him, but I'll go back. Situations like that call to me, "Amber, get a certification in counseling, degree in psychology, SOMETHING. You're needed." On the other hand, Bryan mentioned to me painting furniture is a very lucrative business, particularly for children. Thankfully, these two paths aren't mutually exclusive.
77) Walk on the beach 2 times a week for a month (8/8) 5/6/07, 5/12/07, 5/18/07, 5/19/07, 5/20/07, 5/23/07, 5/29/07, 6/2/07
Finished!
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Day 56
12) Master 10 lunch recipes (0/10) Greek Garbanzo Bean Salad; Mediterranean Pasta Salad; Red Kidney Bean Soup with Lime Yogurt
Serena and I made Red Kidney Bean Soup with Lime Yogurt on Tues night. We discovered that the recipes at World's Healthiest Foods really call for teaspoons when they say tablespoons, at least when it comes to spices. Serena cooks for a living so she's an authority. We cut down every spice but garlic, so we had really garlicky soup. But yummy none the less. The yogurt is a particular treat.
64) Schedule appointment to see if you qualify for Laser Eye Surgery; if yes, begin saving for and have procedure; if no, contacts appointment on 5/26/07; contact fitting on 5/30/07
So I'm not yet a great candidate for LASIK because my eyes have changed and my pupils are huge. I also have an astigmatism, though that's not so much an obstacle anymore as a factor. My eyes probably changed due to my staring at a computer screen all day, both here and at Hollywood on busy nights. I can't do much about my pupil size, but the technology is still advancing. In a couple years I'll look into it again, but for now, contacts! I received my trial pair yesterday, which are not quite my prescription (the right one is slightly off). I wouldn't know the difference as the eye adjustment thing is so disorienting. I wore them for about 5 hours this morning as instructed and I now understand why Trin always says, "your eyes are like a Disney character's". They're really big... all my facial features are big. I was really tripping off seeing the bridge of my nose. I remember people in my life saying poo poo to me and contacts in the past because they're so used to me in glasses, and I look so good in them. To say to a person they look better in glasses is kinda insulting though because we don't come with this extra appendage. I'll admit my eyes kinda overwhelm my face but not in a bad way. I think I may have hid them for so long because I look a lot more vulnerable with them unleashed. As far as the vision is concerned, driving was great without the obstruction on the sides, and my eyes didn't feel dry at all as I've heard complaints from others about. I'm definitely aware something's in my eye, but I'm told I'll get used to it. Putting them in and taking them out is frustrating too, but I'll get better.
71) Re-design main room, bedroom, and kitchen of apartment 5/28/07
I spent a good portion of Monday rearranging the furniture of the main room. I finally embraced these two Colonial period duplication tables I bought at a garage sale years ago. I was going to paint them or something but then we found out they're worth $2500 apiece. Of course we couldn't even sell them asking $750 apiece on Craig's List. It should also be noted that Roger cracked one while fixing it's flip top capability, and then refinished them both in a manner that would decrease their value. Then my mother made a mark on one with a sharpie. I didn't want to part with them for nothing though, I like them. I just didn't feel they went with my place. Then about a month ago mom and Roger placed them haphazardly in my apartment. Humph. So I got tired of the lack of harmony the place is so well known for and incorporated them into the decor. They look good. I also moved what used to be Trin then Luby's bookcase to the opposite side of the room where Phinny's cat post used to be. It's not exactly how I want it yet but it's a start.
P.S: Is anybody reading this?
Serena and I made Red Kidney Bean Soup with Lime Yogurt on Tues night. We discovered that the recipes at World's Healthiest Foods really call for teaspoons when they say tablespoons, at least when it comes to spices. Serena cooks for a living so she's an authority. We cut down every spice but garlic, so we had really garlicky soup. But yummy none the less. The yogurt is a particular treat.
64) Schedule appointment to see if you qualify for Laser Eye Surgery; if yes, begin saving for and have procedure; if no, contacts appointment on 5/26/07; contact fitting on 5/30/07
So I'm not yet a great candidate for LASIK because my eyes have changed and my pupils are huge. I also have an astigmatism, though that's not so much an obstacle anymore as a factor. My eyes probably changed due to my staring at a computer screen all day, both here and at Hollywood on busy nights. I can't do much about my pupil size, but the technology is still advancing. In a couple years I'll look into it again, but for now, contacts! I received my trial pair yesterday, which are not quite my prescription (the right one is slightly off). I wouldn't know the difference as the eye adjustment thing is so disorienting. I wore them for about 5 hours this morning as instructed and I now understand why Trin always says, "your eyes are like a Disney character's". They're really big... all my facial features are big. I was really tripping off seeing the bridge of my nose. I remember people in my life saying poo poo to me and contacts in the past because they're so used to me in glasses, and I look so good in them. To say to a person they look better in glasses is kinda insulting though because we don't come with this extra appendage. I'll admit my eyes kinda overwhelm my face but not in a bad way. I think I may have hid them for so long because I look a lot more vulnerable with them unleashed. As far as the vision is concerned, driving was great without the obstruction on the sides, and my eyes didn't feel dry at all as I've heard complaints from others about. I'm definitely aware something's in my eye, but I'm told I'll get used to it. Putting them in and taking them out is frustrating too, but I'll get better.
71) Re-design main room, bedroom, and kitchen of apartment 5/28/07
I spent a good portion of Monday rearranging the furniture of the main room. I finally embraced these two Colonial period duplication tables I bought at a garage sale years ago. I was going to paint them or something but then we found out they're worth $2500 apiece. Of course we couldn't even sell them asking $750 apiece on Craig's List. It should also be noted that Roger cracked one while fixing it's flip top capability, and then refinished them both in a manner that would decrease their value. Then my mother made a mark on one with a sharpie. I didn't want to part with them for nothing though, I like them. I just didn't feel they went with my place. Then about a month ago mom and Roger placed them haphazardly in my apartment. Humph. So I got tired of the lack of harmony the place is so well known for and incorporated them into the decor. They look good. I also moved what used to be Trin then Luby's bookcase to the opposite side of the room where Phinny's cat post used to be. It's not exactly how I want it yet but it's a start.
P.S: Is anybody reading this?
Friday, May 25, 2007
Day 50
11) Master 10 breakfast recipes (0/10) Tropical Breakfast Risotto; Grapefriut Sunrise
On Sunday morning I made Tropical Breakfast Risotto again. That fed me every morning until today. I've decided next time I'm going to use real pineapple though. The canned stuff just isn't the same. The reason the recipe calls for canned is so you can use the juice, but I'd just assume get some juice in addition. Maybe do something crazy like use papaya juice or something.
10) Master 10 dinner recipes (0/10) Baked Chicken Breast with Honey Mustard Sauce & Fennel Green Beans
Last night Serena and I made this together, except she substituted tofu and vegetable broth. I've completely eliminated the Super Carrot Raisin Salad from the mix as doing two recipes simultaneously is challenging enough. These two alone combine nutients up the wazoo anyhow. Serena and I concured we both like our green beans a little softer than they turned out, but mixed with the fennel and onions it was all quite light and crunchy, making it good as a salad the next day. *sigh* Cooking regularly is time consuming, at least right now. The feelings of accomplishment and nourishment keep me going though.
77) Walk on the beach 2 times a week for a month (6/8) 5/6/07, 5/12/07, 5/18/07, 5/19/07, 5/20/07, 5/23/07
I've taken Serena with me on about half of these trips since she lives right there. Wednesday though, we went to the Cliff House beach instead. We walked all around what once were baths. We went through that cave at the end of which some guys were finishing up fishing (fishermen are everywhere there's a beach). Serena told me how her sister's friend had died climbing some rocks at this spot. A wave crashed up unexpectedly behind him. "This is why I go for more controlled risk taking, like roller coasters," I told her.
53) Volunteer 50hrs (7/50) Food Bank 4/18/07, Homeless Children 5/2/07, Sprucing up the Botanical Garden 5/19/07
This past Saturday, I, with just 2 other volunteers and one of the 11 gardeners at the Golden Gate Botanical Garden, set about attacking some weeds in an area just left of the pond. Owen, the gardener, also gave us a brief tour of all the projects going on there. I was never aware that this place was in such constant renovation. There's going to be a stone sitting area built from stones from a missionary Hearst had broken down and transported here with the idea of rebuilding it. When that proved impossible the stones were donated to the park and scattered by use in various projects. The two other volunteers consisted of a documentary film graduate from Stanford (who'd resently had his film about the blue finned - or maybe it was silver backed - tuna in a festival) and a freelance writer specializing in cocktail research (who's job enticed me only because he gets sent all over the world). I have it on good authority though (Luby's dad) that the work/pay ratio of journalism isn't worth it.
On Sunday morning I made Tropical Breakfast Risotto again. That fed me every morning until today. I've decided next time I'm going to use real pineapple though. The canned stuff just isn't the same. The reason the recipe calls for canned is so you can use the juice, but I'd just assume get some juice in addition. Maybe do something crazy like use papaya juice or something.
10) Master 10 dinner recipes (0/10) Baked Chicken Breast with Honey Mustard Sauce & Fennel Green Beans
Last night Serena and I made this together, except she substituted tofu and vegetable broth. I've completely eliminated the Super Carrot Raisin Salad from the mix as doing two recipes simultaneously is challenging enough. These two alone combine nutients up the wazoo anyhow. Serena and I concured we both like our green beans a little softer than they turned out, but mixed with the fennel and onions it was all quite light and crunchy, making it good as a salad the next day. *sigh* Cooking regularly is time consuming, at least right now. The feelings of accomplishment and nourishment keep me going though.
77) Walk on the beach 2 times a week for a month (6/8) 5/6/07, 5/12/07, 5/18/07, 5/19/07, 5/20/07, 5/23/07
I've taken Serena with me on about half of these trips since she lives right there. Wednesday though, we went to the Cliff House beach instead. We walked all around what once were baths. We went through that cave at the end of which some guys were finishing up fishing (fishermen are everywhere there's a beach). Serena told me how her sister's friend had died climbing some rocks at this spot. A wave crashed up unexpectedly behind him. "This is why I go for more controlled risk taking, like roller coasters," I told her.
53) Volunteer 50hrs (7/50) Food Bank 4/18/07, Homeless Children 5/2/07, Sprucing up the Botanical Garden 5/19/07
This past Saturday, I, with just 2 other volunteers and one of the 11 gardeners at the Golden Gate Botanical Garden, set about attacking some weeds in an area just left of the pond. Owen, the gardener, also gave us a brief tour of all the projects going on there. I was never aware that this place was in such constant renovation. There's going to be a stone sitting area built from stones from a missionary Hearst had broken down and transported here with the idea of rebuilding it. When that proved impossible the stones were donated to the park and scattered by use in various projects. The two other volunteers consisted of a documentary film graduate from Stanford (who'd resently had his film about the blue finned - or maybe it was silver backed - tuna in a festival) and a freelance writer specializing in cocktail research (who's job enticed me only because he gets sent all over the world). I have it on good authority though (Luby's dad) that the work/pay ratio of journalism isn't worth it.
Friday, May 18, 2007
Day 43
Despite having engaged in a good 30% of this list I'm still intimidated when I read through it. Granted it's exciting all I've given myself to look forward to. I encourage everyone to put down what they want to do in writing, and then not question too much why. Sometimes it's better to go with your gut. Many passions are just ends in themselves, but in order to find the ones that lead elsewhere you have to explore them all. Serena and I were in a bookstore the other night and we were laughing about this book a women published that lists 1000some things that make her happy. Happiness is just so particular that such a book would be useless in most anyone else's hands. This was my idea behind constructing a book of quotes that held distinct meaning for me.
64) Schedule appointment to see if you qualify for Laser Eye Surgery; if yes, begin saving for and have procedure; if no, contacts appointment for 5/26/07
'Why would you want to let someone cut a flap in your eye, lift that flap and shoot down your cornea with a laser?' you might ask. The risk nowadays is actually very low. Most side effects occur in less than 1% of patients, and over correction/under correction has pretty much been eliminated due to Customwave (also a major factor in side effect reduction). There are things that can prevent you from being a good candidate though. If you're under 18 or your prescription hasn't stabilized, if you have an eye disease or your eyes are otherwise unhealthy, if you have an extremely strong prescription, or if your pupils are over 7 decimeters you're ineligible or just at risk for side effects. I've scheduled an appointment with my childhood optometrist for next Sat to see what my exact prescription is, how large my pupils are (I suspect they might disqualify me), and to see if there's anything else that makes me a bad candidate. I'll also run by her all my others concerns. One of my concerns that should be the smallest factor when considering surgery is cost, because my dad went and offered to pay when I thought it was like $1000 an eye. Research revealed it's more like $2000 an eye. When I told him this I added I don't expect him to pay that much as it's my thing and I was prepared to save for/finance it. But were going to talk more after we know my individual situation.
64) Schedule appointment to see if you qualify for Laser Eye Surgery; if yes, begin saving for and have procedure; if no, contacts appointment for 5/26/07
'Why would you want to let someone cut a flap in your eye, lift that flap and shoot down your cornea with a laser?' you might ask. The risk nowadays is actually very low. Most side effects occur in less than 1% of patients, and over correction/under correction has pretty much been eliminated due to Customwave (also a major factor in side effect reduction). There are things that can prevent you from being a good candidate though. If you're under 18 or your prescription hasn't stabilized, if you have an eye disease or your eyes are otherwise unhealthy, if you have an extremely strong prescription, or if your pupils are over 7 decimeters you're ineligible or just at risk for side effects. I've scheduled an appointment with my childhood optometrist for next Sat to see what my exact prescription is, how large my pupils are (I suspect they might disqualify me), and to see if there's anything else that makes me a bad candidate. I'll also run by her all my others concerns. One of my concerns that should be the smallest factor when considering surgery is cost, because my dad went and offered to pay when I thought it was like $1000 an eye. Research revealed it's more like $2000 an eye. When I told him this I added I don't expect him to pay that much as it's my thing and I was prepared to save for/finance it. But were going to talk more after we know my individual situation.
Monday, May 14, 2007
Day 39
12) Master 10 lunch recipes (0/10) Greek Garbanzo Bean Salad; Mediterranean Pasta Salad
On Thurs night I made Mediterranean Pasta Salad. I used dried tarragon instead of fresh, and when I first served it luke warm it was a little bitter. I also am really sensitive to onions. Chopping them myself causes my eyes to blur with tears, and even being around ones someone else has done is irritating. Serena told me about pre-chopped onions @ Trader Joes which is the route I'm going to take from now on. The salad tasted great the next day after being chilled. It gives you pretty strong breath though.
44) Visit the library and check out 5 books 5/13/07
I completed this task yesterday. The goal behind it is for me to start taking advantage of the library. I took out 4 picture/guide books of Arizona (for the painting I'm doing), a couple CD's (one classical & Jacques Brel is Alive...), and a couple books (Lolita & Monster of God).
50) Spend 150hrs drawing (1/150) 1hr 5/11/07
I'm so much happier working with color, painting, or even sculpting, but I know drawing is the foundation for all visual art so I have to buckle down. I hope by doing this to improve the perspective, proportions, and realism in my pieces.
68) Save $10 for every item completed on your 101 list to be spent as you choose but subtract from this $25 towards a charity for every uncompleted task (hold money in a “piggy” bank) ($60/$1010 4/10/07, 4/14/07, 4/23/07, 5/5/07, 5/13/07*2
On Saturday I went to this Japanese $1.50 store with Serena and her dad and got a traditional Japanese Lucky Cat in the form of a piggy bank. Yeah!
86) Color an entire coloring book purchased 5/13/07
Yesterday I purchased a big Disney Princess coloring book. Yup, you heard me right, and I'm going to color Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty and the rest of 'em from head to toe. The primary reason for this goal is just the sheer childlike enjoyment of it all. But, it will also further improve my skills as a colorist.
99) Call Dad once a month (2/33) 4/8/07, 5/13/07
Yesterday, it being Mother's Day, I decided to call my dad and step-mother Jonie. I don't know that I've ever before called Joan on mother's day because I consider my birth mother to be my only mother, and Joan has no children of her own. She's also a rather bitter and argumentative person who's close mindedness influences my father's open minded nature. But how can I help anything by begrudging her acknowledgement in my upbringing? She may not have been the most positive example but negative people show you what not to be. I also know she loves my sister and I as much as she loves anyone. So I decided to take the higher road, and it made Jonie extremely happy. My dad also thanked me for calling her, giving me the impression that she'd been listening for the phone all day. More and more I'm realizing the power of actions. Another development from this phone call is my dad offered to pay for my laser eye surgery (if I qualify), which would be awesome.
78) Collect in a book 50 quotes that inspire you (50/50) 5/13/07
I felt immediate effects of this customized philosophy when I began incorporating one or two of these babies (or at least the concept behind them) into various conversations. When I get around to it I'll post the quotes somewhere on this page.
On Thurs night I made Mediterranean Pasta Salad. I used dried tarragon instead of fresh, and when I first served it luke warm it was a little bitter. I also am really sensitive to onions. Chopping them myself causes my eyes to blur with tears, and even being around ones someone else has done is irritating. Serena told me about pre-chopped onions @ Trader Joes which is the route I'm going to take from now on. The salad tasted great the next day after being chilled. It gives you pretty strong breath though.
44) Visit the library and check out 5 books 5/13/07
I completed this task yesterday. The goal behind it is for me to start taking advantage of the library. I took out 4 picture/guide books of Arizona (for the painting I'm doing), a couple CD's (one classical & Jacques Brel is Alive...), and a couple books (Lolita & Monster of God).
50) Spend 150hrs drawing (1/150) 1hr 5/11/07
I'm so much happier working with color, painting, or even sculpting, but I know drawing is the foundation for all visual art so I have to buckle down. I hope by doing this to improve the perspective, proportions, and realism in my pieces.
68) Save $10 for every item completed on your 101 list to be spent as you choose but subtract from this $25 towards a charity for every uncompleted task (hold money in a “piggy” bank) ($60/$1010 4/10/07, 4/14/07, 4/23/07, 5/5/07, 5/13/07*2
On Saturday I went to this Japanese $1.50 store with Serena and her dad and got a traditional Japanese Lucky Cat in the form of a piggy bank. Yeah!
86) Color an entire coloring book purchased 5/13/07
Yesterday I purchased a big Disney Princess coloring book. Yup, you heard me right, and I'm going to color Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty and the rest of 'em from head to toe. The primary reason for this goal is just the sheer childlike enjoyment of it all. But, it will also further improve my skills as a colorist.
99) Call Dad once a month (2/33) 4/8/07, 5/13/07
Yesterday, it being Mother's Day, I decided to call my dad and step-mother Jonie. I don't know that I've ever before called Joan on mother's day because I consider my birth mother to be my only mother, and Joan has no children of her own. She's also a rather bitter and argumentative person who's close mindedness influences my father's open minded nature. But how can I help anything by begrudging her acknowledgement in my upbringing? She may not have been the most positive example but negative people show you what not to be. I also know she loves my sister and I as much as she loves anyone. So I decided to take the higher road, and it made Jonie extremely happy. My dad also thanked me for calling her, giving me the impression that she'd been listening for the phone all day. More and more I'm realizing the power of actions. Another development from this phone call is my dad offered to pay for my laser eye surgery (if I qualify), which would be awesome.
78) Collect in a book 50 quotes that inspire you (50/50) 5/13/07
I felt immediate effects of this customized philosophy when I began incorporating one or two of these babies (or at least the concept behind them) into various conversations. When I get around to it I'll post the quotes somewhere on this page.
Wednesday, May 9, 2007
Day 34
11) Master 10 breakfast recipes (0/10) Tropical Breakfast Risotto; Grapefruit Sunrise
This morning I made myself a Grapefruit Sunrise minus the whole fruit on top. Chugging it instantly made me feel good all over, and I felt full once I ate a banana too. I've been feeling better than usual by following these recipes, though it's a tad overwhelming; I having minimal experience cooking from scratch. It's easy to see why our culture is so consumed with fast food in all it's many forms, but once you've reaped in the rewards of accomplishment and ample nutrients it's hard to go back for long.
BTW - if you're wondering what happened to the picture of the week, my phone is refusing to download pics to my comp right now.
This morning I made myself a Grapefruit Sunrise minus the whole fruit on top. Chugging it instantly made me feel good all over, and I felt full once I ate a banana too. I've been feeling better than usual by following these recipes, though it's a tad overwhelming; I having minimal experience cooking from scratch. It's easy to see why our culture is so consumed with fast food in all it's many forms, but once you've reaped in the rewards of accomplishment and ample nutrients it's hard to go back for long.
BTW - if you're wondering what happened to the picture of the week, my phone is refusing to download pics to my comp right now.
Tuesday, May 8, 2007
Day 33
7) Visit the SF Academy of Science 5/5/07
Serena and I visited the awkwardly re-located Academy of Science this Saturday. It's a year away from being opened again in Golden Gate Park, bigger and better than ever. My favorite part of the old version was the stuffed animal habitats. But at the moment the stuffed animals are in glass cabinets looking really dead, particularly the birds (it's really disturbing). The rest of the place is made up of tons of fish, some reptiles, and a group of penguins. Did you know all the SF penguins are from Africa? We didn't. I also learned later that the new Academy is going to be entirely Green, with trees on the roof even!
10) Master 10 dinner recipes (0/10) Baked Chicken Breast with Honey Mustard Sauce, Fennel Green Beans, and Super Carrot Raisin Salad
Last night plans were cancelled due to a rash on Lucy's(my niece) inner thigh (she's reportedly okay, they just need to keep an eye on it). So I decided to try one of my dinner recipes but I didn't leave myself enough prep time to do all of it, plus I was missing fennel. One can hardly call a thing Fennel Green Beans without the fennel. Hence I had just regular green beans with lemon, salt and pepper and I skipped the salad all together for lack of a food processor. I did complete the chicken recipe though, my only fault being I forgot to cook the sauce on high for it's last five minutes so it wasn't as thick and flavorful as it should have been. It still tasted yummy though, and that's the whole point of mastery.
11) Master 10 breakfast recipes (0/10) Tropical Breakfast Risotto
I made this Saturday morning and I feel I achieved the creamy/not runny texture described. It's awfully tasty, and rather exotic. I shared some with Roger, mom, and Serena later in the day, and they enjoyed it. I will say that though you can serve it both hot and cold, I prefer it hot. Eating it cold was nice in combination with the heat wave though.
13) Either read or donate all the unread books you own 5/6/07 sold $17 worth and donated two bags to library
Sun I found out people evaluating books at book stores are just as snobby as ones evaluating clothes at clothes stores. I brought in 2.5 bags and she only took half of the half full bag, leaving me to carry the 2.25 bags back to my car (2 blocks away). She did tip me that the library takes donations and they were open to everything but encyclopedias.
The lady looked me dead in the eye, "They're not encyclopedias are they?" I, a little confused, replied, "No, mainly Stephen King, Micheal Crichton, and cats, lots and lots on cats."
77) Walk on the beach 2 times a week for a month (1/8) 5/6/07
I said to myself, after donating to the library, that now is the time to start walking on the beach as it's incredibly beautiful out these days. I ran into a guy who works in a coffee shop by my work as I was entering the beach and he was heading to the bathroom. He said he'd flag me down if he saw me (he was with a big group of friends) but that didn't happen. Instead I took off my shoes and splashed about in the tide, people watching, and enjoying the nostalgic smells and sounds.
Serena and I visited the awkwardly re-located Academy of Science this Saturday. It's a year away from being opened again in Golden Gate Park, bigger and better than ever. My favorite part of the old version was the stuffed animal habitats. But at the moment the stuffed animals are in glass cabinets looking really dead, particularly the birds (it's really disturbing). The rest of the place is made up of tons of fish, some reptiles, and a group of penguins. Did you know all the SF penguins are from Africa? We didn't. I also learned later that the new Academy is going to be entirely Green, with trees on the roof even!
10) Master 10 dinner recipes (0/10) Baked Chicken Breast with Honey Mustard Sauce, Fennel Green Beans, and Super Carrot Raisin Salad
Last night plans were cancelled due to a rash on Lucy's(my niece) inner thigh (she's reportedly okay, they just need to keep an eye on it). So I decided to try one of my dinner recipes but I didn't leave myself enough prep time to do all of it, plus I was missing fennel. One can hardly call a thing Fennel Green Beans without the fennel. Hence I had just regular green beans with lemon, salt and pepper and I skipped the salad all together for lack of a food processor. I did complete the chicken recipe though, my only fault being I forgot to cook the sauce on high for it's last five minutes so it wasn't as thick and flavorful as it should have been. It still tasted yummy though, and that's the whole point of mastery.
11) Master 10 breakfast recipes (0/10) Tropical Breakfast Risotto
I made this Saturday morning and I feel I achieved the creamy/not runny texture described. It's awfully tasty, and rather exotic. I shared some with Roger, mom, and Serena later in the day, and they enjoyed it. I will say that though you can serve it both hot and cold, I prefer it hot. Eating it cold was nice in combination with the heat wave though.
13) Either read or donate all the unread books you own 5/6/07 sold $17 worth and donated two bags to library
Sun I found out people evaluating books at book stores are just as snobby as ones evaluating clothes at clothes stores. I brought in 2.5 bags and she only took half of the half full bag, leaving me to carry the 2.25 bags back to my car (2 blocks away). She did tip me that the library takes donations and they were open to everything but encyclopedias.
The lady looked me dead in the eye, "They're not encyclopedias are they?" I, a little confused, replied, "No, mainly Stephen King, Micheal Crichton, and cats, lots and lots on cats."
77) Walk on the beach 2 times a week for a month (1/8) 5/6/07
I said to myself, after donating to the library, that now is the time to start walking on the beach as it's incredibly beautiful out these days. I ran into a guy who works in a coffee shop by my work as I was entering the beach and he was heading to the bathroom. He said he'd flag me down if he saw me (he was with a big group of friends) but that didn't happen. Instead I took off my shoes and splashed about in the tide, people watching, and enjoying the nostalgic smells and sounds.
Friday, May 4, 2007
Day 29
12) Master 10 lunch recipes (0/10) Greek Garbanzo Bean Salad
I've collected 30 of the most appealing dishes from World's Healtiest Foods to be the ones I master. Last night I made my first: Greek Garbanzo Bean Salad. It didn't take me 15 minutes, of course that's the whole point of mastery. It turned out damn good though and not just to taste (which is this burst of freshness with every bite) but since it's almost entirely raw it makes you feel grest too. I brought some of it with me for lunch today.
33) Complete 35 books: 5 must be from Banned-books(0/5); 5 must be from Guardian's top 100 books (0/5); 5 you must already own (0/5); Total - (1/35) What Would You Do If You Had No Fear; Diane Conway 5/2/07
My first book compeleted is What Would You Do If You Had No Fear; Diane Conway. My sister gave this to me when I gave her How to Stop Worrying and Start Living; Dale Carnagie. You may be saying to yourself, "Hey, what's with all the self help books?". Or perhaps you're just grimacing. But like Maggie said when we found ourselves agreeing that Diane Conway is a little crazy, "You take what you need from things, and leave the rest." Might I also site one of my 50 quotes I've collected, "Nothing is too small to know, and nothing is too big to attempt." - William Van Horne. This book tells a story or two a chapter of someone overcoming or bypassing fear. At the end of the chapter it has LIFE CHALLENGES, all of which I left behind. What challenges us in life is very particular to the individual. The main pieces of advice I take with me from Conway is to always say "yes" and to not let fear of dissapointing others keep me from what I need to do.
53) Volunteer 50hrs (4/50) Food Bank 4/18/07, Homeless Children 5/2/07
On Wed night I spent a couple hours at a homeless housing facility South of Market. It caters to women who're pregnant, and I think there's a set time limit on how long you can stay. While you're there though you get 3 meals a day and access to psycologists and job counslers. I don't know what the housing quarters look like, I only saw the kitchen, teen center, and the two rooms for the younger children. The project I was participating in babysits the children for an hour and a half while their parent/s receive counsling. The ratio was 2 kids to 6 adults this time. The children were Victor, age 5, and Kevin, age 6. The time is spent as follows: we start out sitting in a circle and each person introduces themselves and tells about their rose (something good that happened) and thorn (a bad thing) of the day. Then each kid is supposed to spend 20 minutes reading before play time, if they fail to do the reading time they don't get a star that day; ten stars gets you a candy grab, twenty get you a toy grab, and so on until you end up with pizza and a movie. Neither of the boys were into reading that day so we all set about building a BRIO train track. Victor proved to be the more emotionally stable boy as Kevin kept getting upset, violently bunching up track we'd laid down and flinging it back into it's box. After playtime we all journeyed across the hall to the kitchen where this lovely lady I've forgotten the name of, showed the boys how to make milkshakes. It was very hands-on for them, they even did dishes. Again, Kevin lacked confidence, and it got me wondering what happened to him, besides the obvious circumstances, because Victor is coping surprisingly well. After milkshakes the kids played a few more minutes before both getting to grap a handful of candy from a big bin. If you're anything like me you'd be alarmed by all the sugar, though they did use fresh strawberries in the shakes. The next three weeks are booked with volunteers, but I scheduled myself to return there in subsequent weeks.
100) Purchase or borrow and complete The Hard Questions for an Authentic Life: 100 Essential Questions for Tapping into Your Inner Wisdom arrived in mail 4/26/07
Here's a book by a woman who's made a living out of my highschool hobby. I've read the introduction and I'm excited about starting to answer. She talks about how she kept giving herself false start dates for her life to begin, i.e; once I get my degree, once I get married, or once I pay off that loan. Basically she was living in the future, or even the past, i.e; when I was young, when I was with this person, or before I got that injury. She would find that once she accomplished a supposed life starting goal, nothing really changed, she still was not fulfilled. Her life lacked authenticity. And I'm all for authenticity. Answering questions can really solidify your views on life, and even help you tap into your subconscience.
I've collected 30 of the most appealing dishes from World's Healtiest Foods to be the ones I master. Last night I made my first: Greek Garbanzo Bean Salad. It didn't take me 15 minutes, of course that's the whole point of mastery. It turned out damn good though and not just to taste (which is this burst of freshness with every bite) but since it's almost entirely raw it makes you feel grest too. I brought some of it with me for lunch today.
33) Complete 35 books: 5 must be from Banned-books(0/5); 5 must be from Guardian's top 100 books (0/5); 5 you must already own (0/5); Total - (1/35) What Would You Do If You Had No Fear; Diane Conway 5/2/07
My first book compeleted is What Would You Do If You Had No Fear; Diane Conway. My sister gave this to me when I gave her How to Stop Worrying and Start Living; Dale Carnagie. You may be saying to yourself, "Hey, what's with all the self help books?". Or perhaps you're just grimacing. But like Maggie said when we found ourselves agreeing that Diane Conway is a little crazy, "You take what you need from things, and leave the rest." Might I also site one of my 50 quotes I've collected, "Nothing is too small to know, and nothing is too big to attempt." - William Van Horne. This book tells a story or two a chapter of someone overcoming or bypassing fear. At the end of the chapter it has LIFE CHALLENGES, all of which I left behind. What challenges us in life is very particular to the individual. The main pieces of advice I take with me from Conway is to always say "yes" and to not let fear of dissapointing others keep me from what I need to do.
53) Volunteer 50hrs (4/50) Food Bank 4/18/07, Homeless Children 5/2/07
On Wed night I spent a couple hours at a homeless housing facility South of Market. It caters to women who're pregnant, and I think there's a set time limit on how long you can stay. While you're there though you get 3 meals a day and access to psycologists and job counslers. I don't know what the housing quarters look like, I only saw the kitchen, teen center, and the two rooms for the younger children. The project I was participating in babysits the children for an hour and a half while their parent/s receive counsling. The ratio was 2 kids to 6 adults this time. The children were Victor, age 5, and Kevin, age 6. The time is spent as follows: we start out sitting in a circle and each person introduces themselves and tells about their rose (something good that happened) and thorn (a bad thing) of the day. Then each kid is supposed to spend 20 minutes reading before play time, if they fail to do the reading time they don't get a star that day; ten stars gets you a candy grab, twenty get you a toy grab, and so on until you end up with pizza and a movie. Neither of the boys were into reading that day so we all set about building a BRIO train track. Victor proved to be the more emotionally stable boy as Kevin kept getting upset, violently bunching up track we'd laid down and flinging it back into it's box. After playtime we all journeyed across the hall to the kitchen where this lovely lady I've forgotten the name of, showed the boys how to make milkshakes. It was very hands-on for them, they even did dishes. Again, Kevin lacked confidence, and it got me wondering what happened to him, besides the obvious circumstances, because Victor is coping surprisingly well. After milkshakes the kids played a few more minutes before both getting to grap a handful of candy from a big bin. If you're anything like me you'd be alarmed by all the sugar, though they did use fresh strawberries in the shakes. The next three weeks are booked with volunteers, but I scheduled myself to return there in subsequent weeks.
100) Purchase or borrow and complete The Hard Questions for an Authentic Life: 100 Essential Questions for Tapping into Your Inner Wisdom arrived in mail 4/26/07
Here's a book by a woman who's made a living out of my highschool hobby. I've read the introduction and I'm excited about starting to answer. She talks about how she kept giving herself false start dates for her life to begin, i.e; once I get my degree, once I get married, or once I pay off that loan. Basically she was living in the future, or even the past, i.e; when I was young, when I was with this person, or before I got that injury. She would find that once she accomplished a supposed life starting goal, nothing really changed, she still was not fulfilled. Her life lacked authenticity. And I'm all for authenticity. Answering questions can really solidify your views on life, and even help you tap into your subconscience.
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
Day 19
41) Set up a weekly cleaning schedule for the apartment 4/23/07
I've been meaning for years to do this. I'm super organized but not so good with the dusting and sweeping etc. A) because I have allergies, and B) I get overwhelmed (and, ok, lazy). So now I've compacted the house work into frequent bite sized pieces. Last night was clean the bathroom night, and I dutifully did.
80) Stay a size four (or less)
This article presents a healthy approach to maintaining your natural weight. I've done all of these things at one time or another (spare the soup), but I aim to do them more often than not because I feel better in every aspect of life when I eat well. I also have a tendency to overdo it with exercise if I eat too much junk. The idea is to compensate, but I just end up with irritated muscles.
Natural Weight Loss
Posted by Dr. Maoshing Ni
Here is what you can do to achieve a healthy weight:
1. First of all, avoid any fad diets and fast-acting solutions that guarantee incredible weight loss while you watch television and eat deserts.
2. Focus on being fit rather than being thin. Aiming to be thin often means restricted eating, over-exercising, and anxious obsessing about weight - there is nothing healthy about this mindset.
3. Eat five small meals per day. Find a small bowl the size of your two palms when they are placed next to each other - this should be the size of each meal. Eating throughout the day keeps you from becoming famished and overeating at your next meal.
4. Your last meal of the day should be no later than 7 p.m.
5. Eliminate candy, sugar, and soda from your diet. Instead of candy, chew on some fresh peppermint leaves or cinnamon sticks. Use honey sparingly as a replacement for sugar.
6. Eat more complex carbohydrates and ample quantities of fresh fruits and vegetables. Keep dairy to a minimum because most dairy products are high in saturated fat, which is not healthy for your cardiovascular system when consumed in larger amounts. Opt for the lower fat dairy products such as low-fat or non-fat milks, cheeses, and yogurt. Avoid fatty foods, processed or fried foods.
7. Drink plenty of water - at least 60 ounces a day. It is especially beneficial to drink plain hot water, as if you are drinking tea without the tea or sugar. Also, drink a tea made from boiling a lemon (with the peel).
8. Eat soup at least once a day. A low-salt nutritious soup rehydrates the body while also nourishing and flushing waste from the body. It has been found that people who eat one or more soups each day lose more weight than those who eat the same number of calories but don't eat soup. (Seek out homemade soup, because canned soups are filled with salt and chemicals.)
9. A 30-minute daily walk can do wonders for your metabolism. Try taking a walk 30 minutes in the morning or 30 minutes in the evening, two hours before bed. For toning you might replace one of the walks with some stretching activities such as tai chi or a mild form of yoga.
I've been meaning for years to do this. I'm super organized but not so good with the dusting and sweeping etc. A) because I have allergies, and B) I get overwhelmed (and, ok, lazy). So now I've compacted the house work into frequent bite sized pieces. Last night was clean the bathroom night, and I dutifully did.
80) Stay a size four (or less)
This article presents a healthy approach to maintaining your natural weight. I've done all of these things at one time or another (spare the soup), but I aim to do them more often than not because I feel better in every aspect of life when I eat well. I also have a tendency to overdo it with exercise if I eat too much junk. The idea is to compensate, but I just end up with irritated muscles.
Natural Weight Loss
Posted by Dr. Maoshing Ni
Here is what you can do to achieve a healthy weight:
1. First of all, avoid any fad diets and fast-acting solutions that guarantee incredible weight loss while you watch television and eat deserts.
2. Focus on being fit rather than being thin. Aiming to be thin often means restricted eating, over-exercising, and anxious obsessing about weight - there is nothing healthy about this mindset.
3. Eat five small meals per day. Find a small bowl the size of your two palms when they are placed next to each other - this should be the size of each meal. Eating throughout the day keeps you from becoming famished and overeating at your next meal.
4. Your last meal of the day should be no later than 7 p.m.
5. Eliminate candy, sugar, and soda from your diet. Instead of candy, chew on some fresh peppermint leaves or cinnamon sticks. Use honey sparingly as a replacement for sugar.
6. Eat more complex carbohydrates and ample quantities of fresh fruits and vegetables. Keep dairy to a minimum because most dairy products are high in saturated fat, which is not healthy for your cardiovascular system when consumed in larger amounts. Opt for the lower fat dairy products such as low-fat or non-fat milks, cheeses, and yogurt. Avoid fatty foods, processed or fried foods.
7. Drink plenty of water - at least 60 ounces a day. It is especially beneficial to drink plain hot water, as if you are drinking tea without the tea or sugar. Also, drink a tea made from boiling a lemon (with the peel).
8. Eat soup at least once a day. A low-salt nutritious soup rehydrates the body while also nourishing and flushing waste from the body. It has been found that people who eat one or more soups each day lose more weight than those who eat the same number of calories but don't eat soup. (Seek out homemade soup, because canned soups are filled with salt and chemicals.)
9. A 30-minute daily walk can do wonders for your metabolism. Try taking a walk 30 minutes in the morning or 30 minutes in the evening, two hours before bed. For toning you might replace one of the walks with some stretching activities such as tai chi or a mild form of yoga.
Saturday, April 21, 2007
Day 16
5) Write Raphael at least 4 letters while he’s in Honduras (1/4) 4/21/07
I did write Raph a letter last night and this morning. And before going to mail it I did think, "hmm, does it cost more to travel to Honduras?" And I did phone Roger to check, but he didn't answer, so against my better judgment I sent the letter off. I expect it to return Mon requesting a higher postage stamp.
I did write Raph a letter last night and this morning. And before going to mail it I did think, "hmm, does it cost more to travel to Honduras?" And I did phone Roger to check, but he didn't answer, so against my better judgment I sent the letter off. I expect it to return Mon requesting a higher postage stamp.
Wednesday, April 18, 2007
Day 13
53) Volunteer 50hrs (2/50) Food Bank 4/18/07
So between the hours of 6-8 tonight I made roughly 325 boxes that were then filled with 30lbs of food. Together we 22 volunteers packed a little under 20,000 lbs of food. To my surprise I learned the majority of this food is not going to the homeless, but to senior citizens given a mere $1100 a month from social security (a ridiculous amount to expect an SF resident to survive on). Futhermore I learned that the goverment abandoned the feeding of it's malnurished citizens 20 years ago, and the Food Bank has been handling the mess solo. It's really sparked an interest in me to learn more.
So between the hours of 6-8 tonight I made roughly 325 boxes that were then filled with 30lbs of food. Together we 22 volunteers packed a little under 20,000 lbs of food. To my surprise I learned the majority of this food is not going to the homeless, but to senior citizens given a mere $1100 a month from social security (a ridiculous amount to expect an SF resident to survive on). Futhermore I learned that the goverment abandoned the feeding of it's malnurished citizens 20 years ago, and the Food Bank has been handling the mess solo. It's really sparked an interest in me to learn more.
Monday, April 16, 2007
Day 11
24) Get your bowling ball drilled 4/14/07
I don't think much more has to be said about this goal then my ball was given to me in 1999.
It wasn't easy as pie to get it done either. I called them two Saturdays ago and was told the ball driller would be in Mon & Tues from 5-8pm. So after work Mon I traveled from Petrero Hill to the Presidio only to find the guy not there but in Florida (for Easter). I was told that he'd be home that night and to come back the next day, which I did, and again, no guy. This time his plane has been delayed due to a storm. I was really irritated and hinted I best be compensated for misguided treks back and forth. This Saturday I called right before drving over and spoke directly to Eric (the drill guy) to ensure he could to it that day. He could, and gave me $5 off and a pass for a free game. I also learned that I have a bad habit of bending my thumb due to all the foreign balls I've used over the years.
55) Take Moira out 20 times (1/20) 4/13/07
When Moira, my 7-year-old niece, was born, I was really good about visiting her around every other week. Then my visits with her slowed significantly, only picking up slightly when Maggie and Randy lived with her parents. This has sent periotic twinges of guilt through me, since I really want to be a pressence in her life. This goal is designed to make time with Moira habitual.
This past Friday I took the day off to hang with her, Mag, Ran, and Lucy. We had a fun time dancin' & singin' though not so much with games. She confided to Maggie and I that she's laughed at in school when she loses them. Kids are cruel, and this really solidifies why I want to be around, so she doesn't lose her self or her way. Granted it's not just school she's vulnerable to, but that's another story.
61) Visit your grandparents' graves (1/2) 4/13/07
All of my grandparents are now gone, and I miss them terribly. They're a huge reason for my new take on life because I truly regret not spending more time with them while they were here, particularly my Grandad, as he was the most open. But on the other hand, spending time with a person can open them up to you.
This Friday the above group mentioned took a drive over to Grandmother and Grandad's ashes. They're mixed together in a golden box sitting behind glass, their picture and a teddy bear, holding a fake rose, on either side. I realize now that I should have snapped a picture... so I'll probably be going back in the next two years.
62) Take a vocal coaching class 4/15/07
I love to sing. I'll admit I'm pretty intimitated by knowing so many trained singers, and this goal is designed to make me more confident in my instrument.
I found a free two hour group vocal class at the Voice Studio. These two beautiful German women instructed us on a technique called Voice Level Singing. Both of them left their homes in Germany to become certified VLS teachers here in the states, the only place the method is taught. It's been developed so singers won't strain their voices and lose full force over time. I was the first volunteer and did hear an immediate improvement doing the excercises, which I can only describe as whinning. I took a picture of the outside of the studio. Oh, and I actually knew one of the women there. She'd been in my acting class last fall. I might have signed on for an extended course this summer had they accepted credit cards, but it's probably better that they didn't. I do plan to take some sort of ongoing instruction though.
I don't think much more has to be said about this goal then my ball was given to me in 1999.
It wasn't easy as pie to get it done either. I called them two Saturdays ago and was told the ball driller would be in Mon & Tues from 5-8pm. So after work Mon I traveled from Petrero Hill to the Presidio only to find the guy not there but in Florida (for Easter). I was told that he'd be home that night and to come back the next day, which I did, and again, no guy. This time his plane has been delayed due to a storm. I was really irritated and hinted I best be compensated for misguided treks back and forth. This Saturday I called right before drving over and spoke directly to Eric (the drill guy) to ensure he could to it that day. He could, and gave me $5 off and a pass for a free game. I also learned that I have a bad habit of bending my thumb due to all the foreign balls I've used over the years.
55) Take Moira out 20 times (1/20) 4/13/07
When Moira, my 7-year-old niece, was born, I was really good about visiting her around every other week. Then my visits with her slowed significantly, only picking up slightly when Maggie and Randy lived with her parents. This has sent periotic twinges of guilt through me, since I really want to be a pressence in her life. This goal is designed to make time with Moira habitual.
This past Friday I took the day off to hang with her, Mag, Ran, and Lucy. We had a fun time dancin' & singin' though not so much with games. She confided to Maggie and I that she's laughed at in school when she loses them. Kids are cruel, and this really solidifies why I want to be around, so she doesn't lose her self or her way. Granted it's not just school she's vulnerable to, but that's another story.
61) Visit your grandparents' graves (1/2) 4/13/07
All of my grandparents are now gone, and I miss them terribly. They're a huge reason for my new take on life because I truly regret not spending more time with them while they were here, particularly my Grandad, as he was the most open. But on the other hand, spending time with a person can open them up to you.
This Friday the above group mentioned took a drive over to Grandmother and Grandad's ashes. They're mixed together in a golden box sitting behind glass, their picture and a teddy bear, holding a fake rose, on either side. I realize now that I should have snapped a picture... so I'll probably be going back in the next two years.
62) Take a vocal coaching class 4/15/07
I love to sing. I'll admit I'm pretty intimitated by knowing so many trained singers, and this goal is designed to make me more confident in my instrument.
I found a free two hour group vocal class at the Voice Studio. These two beautiful German women instructed us on a technique called Voice Level Singing. Both of them left their homes in Germany to become certified VLS teachers here in the states, the only place the method is taught. It's been developed so singers won't strain their voices and lose full force over time. I was the first volunteer and did hear an immediate improvement doing the excercises, which I can only describe as whinning. I took a picture of the outside of the studio. Oh, and I actually knew one of the women there. She'd been in my acting class last fall. I might have signed on for an extended course this summer had they accepted credit cards, but it's probably better that they didn't. I do plan to take some sort of ongoing instruction though.
Sunday, April 8, 2007
Day 3
It's as if I'm stuck dumb founded at the center of a multi-forked road, bewildered about which one to embark on, certain I can only choose one, then, like Neo bending the Matrix to his will, I decide to weave them all together to form a single path.
At one point while making this list I stopped to ponder my greatest fear. I thought conquering it should be listed, but though I had a good deal of fears on the list, I felt equally fearful of each. Then that night it dawned on me. I am my greatest fear. I am this delicately balanced being whose best quailites are teetering toward greatest faults. Examples:
impulsive = rash
honest = blunt
confident = vain
observant = obsessive
giving = relinquishing
independant = rebellious
I realize these aren't exact synonyms, but you get my drift. I often don't know what to expect from myself. I've been known to drop classes, buy things I can't afford, say hurtful things without thinking, give way too much of myself, spend hours on a minute detail, arrive late to places or not shown up at all due to insecurities over my apperance, and worst, sit paralyzed in front of a TV screen for hours. These behaviors, though seemingly harmless compared to some, don't make me proud or happy, and a good deal of the time I can bypass them all together, but other times they hold me in their grip, not relenting until I've done their bidding. But now I've made this list, confronting those tendancies, determined to stifle them once and for all.
This weekend I got the ball rolling on several goals:
76) Weed out clothing 4 times (1/4) 4/7/07
I have too many clothes. I buy too many clothes, though significantly discounted. Going through them, asking myself to be honest about whether I'll ever wear them again or if they even fit me right, is essential to curbing my desire for more. Once I've given away a bunch, I'm much more critical about what pieces I let into my wardrobe. This goal combined with #79 encourage quality, not quantity, in what I wear. This Sat I put a bunch of articles in a bag and gave Serena first pick, the rest I'll first try to sell, then donate.
93) Take a photo a week (1/143) 4/8/07
I love pictures. I used to take them everywhere I went until I lost my camera in a bowling alley back in 2002. Now in the digital age and with all the interesting material I'll be encountering there's no reason not to document it in this unparalled medium. This week the recipitent of my lens is my adorable 11 week old niece, Lucy Anabelle.
99) Call Dad once a month (1/33) 4/8/07
As my sister pointed out, this should be bumped up to once a week, but though I'm sure I'll call more than the set amount, I intend to get very busy and could easily miss a week or two straight. One of my dad and I's favorite songs on the radio as I was growing up was Cat's in the Cradle by Harry Chapin. Having lost all my grandparents now, and realizing I didn't take full advantage of them while they were here, it's extremely important to keep in close contact with my parents (mom doesn't get a mention on the list because she lives above me and I check in with her just about every day). I called my dad Sat but we played phone tag until he reached me at Mag & Ran's Sun. Suprisingly enough we got to talking about me getting back into art and he commisioned me to do a South Western painting for him and Joan's house in Arizona, touching on goal's #19 and #49.
66) Perform 5 acts from this site (or something like them): Good Deed Ideas(1/5) 4/8/07
I enjoy making people happy. I especially enjoy exceeding people's expectations of humanity. Helping people for no reason other than to help them also confirms my own humanity. My first good deed was paying the bridge toll for the car behind me. It left me with a big sneaky smile on my face, and I felt pretty good the rest of the way home.
At one point while making this list I stopped to ponder my greatest fear. I thought conquering it should be listed, but though I had a good deal of fears on the list, I felt equally fearful of each. Then that night it dawned on me. I am my greatest fear. I am this delicately balanced being whose best quailites are teetering toward greatest faults. Examples:
impulsive = rash
honest = blunt
confident = vain
observant = obsessive
giving = relinquishing
independant = rebellious
I realize these aren't exact synonyms, but you get my drift. I often don't know what to expect from myself. I've been known to drop classes, buy things I can't afford, say hurtful things without thinking, give way too much of myself, spend hours on a minute detail, arrive late to places or not shown up at all due to insecurities over my apperance, and worst, sit paralyzed in front of a TV screen for hours. These behaviors, though seemingly harmless compared to some, don't make me proud or happy, and a good deal of the time I can bypass them all together, but other times they hold me in their grip, not relenting until I've done their bidding. But now I've made this list, confronting those tendancies, determined to stifle them once and for all.
This weekend I got the ball rolling on several goals:
76) Weed out clothing 4 times (1/4) 4/7/07
I have too many clothes. I buy too many clothes, though significantly discounted. Going through them, asking myself to be honest about whether I'll ever wear them again or if they even fit me right, is essential to curbing my desire for more. Once I've given away a bunch, I'm much more critical about what pieces I let into my wardrobe. This goal combined with #79 encourage quality, not quantity, in what I wear. This Sat I put a bunch of articles in a bag and gave Serena first pick, the rest I'll first try to sell, then donate.
93) Take a photo a week (1/143) 4/8/07
I love pictures. I used to take them everywhere I went until I lost my camera in a bowling alley back in 2002. Now in the digital age and with all the interesting material I'll be encountering there's no reason not to document it in this unparalled medium. This week the recipitent of my lens is my adorable 11 week old niece, Lucy Anabelle.
99) Call Dad once a month (1/33) 4/8/07
As my sister pointed out, this should be bumped up to once a week, but though I'm sure I'll call more than the set amount, I intend to get very busy and could easily miss a week or two straight. One of my dad and I's favorite songs on the radio as I was growing up was Cat's in the Cradle by Harry Chapin. Having lost all my grandparents now, and realizing I didn't take full advantage of them while they were here, it's extremely important to keep in close contact with my parents (mom doesn't get a mention on the list because she lives above me and I check in with her just about every day). I called my dad Sat but we played phone tag until he reached me at Mag & Ran's Sun. Suprisingly enough we got to talking about me getting back into art and he commisioned me to do a South Western painting for him and Joan's house in Arizona, touching on goal's #19 and #49.
66) Perform 5 acts from this site (or something like them): Good Deed Ideas(1/5) 4/8/07
I enjoy making people happy. I especially enjoy exceeding people's expectations of humanity. Helping people for no reason other than to help them also confirms my own humanity. My first good deed was paying the bridge toll for the car behind me. It left me with a big sneaky smile on my face, and I felt pretty good the rest of the way home.
Friday, April 6, 2007
Day 1
The Mission: Complete 101 preset tasks in a period of 1001 days.
The Criteria: Tasks must be specific (i.e. no ambiguity in the wording) with a result that is either measurable or clearly defined. Tasks must also be realistic and stretching (i.e. represent some amount of work on my part).
Why 1001 Days? Many people have created lists in the past — frequently simple goals such as New Year’s resolutions. The key to beating procrastination is to set a deadline that is realistic. 1001 Days (about 2.75 years) is a better period of time than a year, because it allows you several seasons to complete the tasks, which is better for organizing and timing some tasks such as overseas trips or outdoor activities.
Goal setting tips
• Be decisive. Know exactly what you want, why you want it, and how you plan to achieve it.
• Stay Focused. Any goal requires sustained focus from beginning to end. Constantly evaluate your progress.
• Welcome Failure. Frequently, very little is learned from a venture that did not experience failure in some form. Failure presents the opportunity to learn and makes the success more worthy.
• Write down your goals. It clarifies your thinking and reinforces your commitment.
• Keep your goals in sight. Review them frequently, and ensure that they are always at the forefront of your thinking.
In making this list I tried to challenge without overwhelming myself. What I've compiled here is ambitious and will take extreme discipline for me, but when discouraged I will think of what my grandfather said on his deathbed:
"It goes by so fast".
Start date 4/6/07
Physical (0/8)
1) Go swimming once a week for 3 months (0/12)
3) Start a membership at The Mission Cliffs
22) Do 30 min of Yoga every morning for a week
31) Take a yoga class
40) Take a self defense class
77) Walk on the beach 2 times a week for a month (0/8)
80) Stay a size four (or less)
84) Take a dance class
Hobbies/Art (0/13)
15) Finish the koi fish table
19) Paint five oil on canvas; one must be a self portrait (0/5) SIGN THEM!
26) Write and illustrate a children’s book (with or without Maggie)
48) Make holiday themed arts and crafts
50) Spend 150hrs drawing (0/150)
57) Paint zebra stripes on your mirror
63) Photograph at least 50 of the items on this list (0/50)
86) Color an entire coloring book
93) Take a photo a week (0/143)
97) Paint the chest the action figures are in
24) Get your bowling ball drilled
27) Complete the Artist’s Way
74) Participate: http://www.sh1ft.org/26things/
Money/Financial (0/6)
29) Pay off car loan early
30) Have $6000 saved
49) Sell something you made
67) Make a budget
68) Save $10 for every item completed on your 101 list to be spent as you choose but subtract from this $25 towards a charity for every uncompleted task (hold money in a “piggy” bank) ($0/$1010)
96) Put loose change into rolls every 6 months (0/5)
Travel/Outings (0/15)
6) Visit Italy
7) Visit the SF Academy of Science
9) Visit New York
23) Swim with a dolphin
25) Take a road trip
28) Visit Vegas (and preset gambling amount)
36) Visit Disneyland
37) See a show on Broadway
47) Visit Anna in Michigan
61) Visit your grandparents' graves
65) Go camping
82) Watch the sun rise
83) Drive to Tahoe to visit Dad and Joan
92) Attend 10 live performances (0/10)
98) Go horseback riding
Literary (0/5)
13) Either read or donate all the unread books you own
33) Complete 35 books: 5 must be from www.banned-books.com (0/5); 5 must be from http://observer.guardian.co.uk/review/story/0,6903,1061037,00.html (0/5); 5 you must already own (0/5); Total - (0/35)
43) Keep a journal documenting the progress of this list; 4/6/07
44) Visit the library and check out 5 books
78) Collect in a book 50 quotes that inspire you (0/50)
Home Improvement (0/9)
4) Paint your room
41) Set up a weekly cleaning schedule for the apartment
46) Create filing system for all your papers
70) Spackle and touch-up apartment
71) Re-design main room, bedroom, and kitchen of apartment
75) Make curtains for your bedroom
56) Find a home/homes for all your action figures
69) Frame “toilet paper rolls” and display
76) Weed out clothing 4 times (0/4)
Diet/Food (0/5)
20) Plant a vegetable garden
10) Master 10 dinner recipes (0/10)
11) Master 10 breakfast recipes (0/10)
12) Master 10 lunch recipes (0/10)
89) Eat at ten top SF restaurants you’ve never been to
Purchases (0/6)
51) Buy a reading chair
58) Buy furniture for the deck
42) Copy all your CD’s to your computer or blank CD’s and buy an I-POD
45) Buy a red dress that looks fabulous on you and wear it out
52) Buy a comfortable, stylish, and affordable couch
79) Determine what key clothing pieces you’re missing from your wardrobe and make or buy them
Things to learn/Skills to perfect (0/8)
2) Increase typing speed to 40wpm
14) Learn to sew
17) Take Acting for Camera class
18) Take a wood shop class
32) Learn to make your own website
62) Take a vocal coaching class
85) Take an Excel/Word class
87) Join a chess club
Self (0/11)
8) Eliminate acne
35) Attend 10 sessions of therapy (0/10)
39) Receive acupuncture
54) Go for a manicure
59) See school counselor and decide on a degree
60) Move out
64) Schedule appointment to see if you qualify for Laser Eye Surgery; if yes, begin saving for and have procedure; if no, contacts
72) Get a bikini wax
90) Get diagnosed for a learning disability
91) Do a cleanse
100) Purchase or borrow and complete The Hard Questions for an Authentic Life: 100 Essential Questions for Tapping into Your Inner Wisdom
Others (0/9)
5) Write Raphael at least 4 letters while he’s in Honduras (0/4)
16) Complete and send out “memories” holiday cards
53) Volunteer 50hrs (0/50)
55) Take Moira out 20 times (0/20)
81) Create a list of family and friend birthdays, phone numbers, and addresses
95) Throw a surprise party for someone
99) Call Dad once a month (0/33)
21) Run a charity race
73) Start dating
66) Perform 5 acts from this site (or something like them): http://home.hiram.edu/hal/good%20deed%20ideas.htm
Social (0/4)
34) Have a game night every other week for 3 months (0/6)
94) Host a theme party
38) Get cast in a musical or play
88) Attend 10 year high school reunion
Finished?
101) Complete another list and start again (transfer any uncompleted tasks)
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