Look for the LOVE

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Rainbow last Thurs night - the most spectacular I've ever seen

We all have those days (ok, lately it seems like it's been weeks) where there is more bad, sad and frustrating news then we feel we can handle. Both in the news and in our own backyards.

It's especially hard when difficult things happen to people we care about, and even worse when it feels like there's not a thing we can do about it.

I've heard more than a few earfuls of tough stuff going on lately.  At some point I figured enough was enough, I mean how much more can there be?  Then I arrived home Sunday night after a very long day to some very upsetting family news.  That was about the last straw.  It would have  been easy to go down the rabbit hole into despair and negativity.  I'm not saying I didn't shed some tears, because I'll be honest, I did.

But then I got to thinking.  I can dwell on this or I can LOOK FOR THE LOVE.  Even when things are dark, there's some love, somewhere.

Here's where I've found love floating around lately.....

• A daily continuous stream of instant messaging among my two BFF's - these women are my rocks!
• A cool surprise from my hubby last week
• Wonderful emails from two of my China kids in my inbox Monday morning
• A bunch of beautiful inspiring women whom I get to work out with every day
• A much needed Mastermind meeting on Friday with my support team - PLUS it was at the beach (and followed by a glass of wine and a friend always ready to lend an ear)
• Fun unexpected treats from my Reiki partner
• My mom -  'nuff said. 
• A spontaneous, and very special, family dinner 
• A sweet note from a long time colleague
• Glorious weather today and the chance to eat lunch and do some work outside (love the virtual office)
• A spectacular rainbow spotted in Milford during an impromptu outing to spend time with my stepdaughter (photo above - which does not do it justice!)

I'm not saying that this love takes my mind off the tragedies people I love are enduring and the courageous battles being fought.  I just know that amidst it all I need to keep an eye out for the love.

 Where do you see the LOVE this week? 


Trust me it's there (oddly I now feel like breaking out into the Mary Tyler Moore theme song...."Love is all around...")

Fall wish list.....

Photo taken on an excursion last fall

Autumn is upon us and it's my favorite time of year.  Have you been scratching your head lately wondering where summer went? 

In looking over my summer 'wish list' I'm happy to say that I did in fact enjoy everything on my list, except golfing with my hubby.  Unfortunately an injury early in the summer has kept me off the golf course and in physical therapy.  But other than that, I made the absolute most of my summer and enjoyed it to the fullest, including my kick off summer hot fudge sundae (which wasn't on the list, but a revered summer tradition)

When fall arrived on Friday, I started crafting my autumn wish list; There are lots more fun events and projects on tap,  but here are a things that I want to do this fall, and a few things that help me enjoy, appreciate and savor the season.

• Make homemade soup  - every week if often as possible 
• Try fencing
• Recycle old cassettes
• Teach a four week Pure Muscle class (will be packing my bikini for Aruba in Nov so this is a must!)
• Go to an orchard for apples, cider and a pumpkin
• Make something with the apples, maybe a pie or applesauce
• Stock up on red wine (get ideas from wine class I'm taking in Oct with hubby)
• Take some photos of fall foliage
• Get a massage
• Watch at least two documentaries I've been meaning to watch from my Netflix list
• Sand and stain bench for living room
• Take Belly Dancing
• Do something spontaneous every week (believe it or not this might be the most challenging as I tend to PLAN my spontaneity.!)

What's on your Fall Wish List?

Give Your Body A (Healthy) Cleansing

My most recent article was published on DailyNorwalk.com as well as ten affiliate sites.  

 

Did you have too many barbecues and ice cream cones this summer? You're not alone in having indulged in summer delights. 

But as fall approaches, it's the perfect time for a simple cleanse to clean out all the "gunk" accumulated in the body from food, cleaning products, water and air. Just as cars need an oil change to operate efficiently, so does the body. 

We are constantly accumulating toxins, often resulting in symptoms such as headaches, poor concentration, fatigue, joint pain, muscle aches and pain, skin problems and more. In order to improve these conditions and increase your energy forget the expensive fancy colon cleanse that will keep you in the bathroom for a week and try eliminating this items for no more than seven days. 

Caffeine: This includes caffeinated beverages such as coffee, soda and black tea. Sip herbal and green teas with no caffeine. 

Refined and added simple sugars: Refined sugars refer to anything with added sucrose, fructose, high fructose corn syrup, dextrose, molasses, honey, maple syrup or alcohol. This includes cakes, cookies, candies, pastry, beer, wine and liquor. Use a natural sweetener such as Stevia. 

Gluten containing grains (wheat, rye, barley, spelt, kamut): Only quinoa, oats, rice, millet, buckwheat, teff and amaranth are acceptable grains. For a more hardcore detox, consider eliminating all grains, then if desired work back in those containing the non-gluten grains listed above 

Eggs and dairy products: These include egg, milk, yogurt, cheese ice cream, sour cream, butter, etc, as well as any soy based dairy substitutes. Experiment with items such as almond and rice milks, which are tasty alternatives. 

No processed foods: A no brainer. 

No meat (at least try eating no red meat): For additional protein during a particularly physical day, try grilled fish or chicken (preferably organic) or turkey (not processed). 

What should you much on? Plenty of fruits and veggies. Try fresh, raw, steamed, sautéed, juiced or roasted (but not creamed vegetables). Play with a wide variety of spices, oils and vinegars, but steer clear of ketchup, mustard, relish, soy sauce and other packaged condiments. 

The first few days can be challenging, but stick with it and you'll be amazed at how your body will restore itself to radiant health. 

 

Kristen Hallett Rzasa is the owner of InterPlay Health, LLC and Jazzercise. She is an entrepreneur, dancer, instructor, writer, yogi, golfer and avid reader.

The Brits are on to something - taking time for tea at The Plaza

From the pages of The Great Gatsby to the big screen of The Way We Were (and most recently Bride Wars), The Plaza Hotel has been the backdrop for many scenes of drama, romance and fantasy, including the famous adventures of naughty Eloise in the magical children's story from the 1950's.

Yesterday in our quest for monthly adventure, Pina and I ventured into Manhattan for tea at The Plaza's Palm Court.

Surrounded by timeless elegance, we sipped pear tea, people watched and dished about men, money, and menopause, or in other words, the things that keep us up at night.

A few musings brewed over  tea time:

Look in your own backyard - Neither Pina nor I had ever set foot in this gilded luxury hotel despite countless days spent in NYC and residing less than an hour away. It's amazing how much there is to explore right under your nose. In fact, over tea we discovered that there are many other quintessential NY experiences neither of us have yet to try.

Take time to savor - I'm the fastest eater I know, and frankly I've never tried very hard to break that bad habit. But tea time demands a slower pace. If you've taken to inhaling meals on the run and make a regular habit of dashboard dining, it's time to brew a pot of tea and slow down.

Finish your dessert without guilt - The pet it fours were too refined, too gorgeous, and frankly too pricey to leave any on the plate. We devoured them whole heartily and enjoyed every bite. I briefly considered nabbing the two left behind on the lovely tiered dessert stand at the adjacent table, but thought better of it.

Yummo!

Seek out some ambiance - Tea at The Plaza of course is never about the tea, or even the food. It's about donning your Mary Janes (preferably a more modern version with a heel) and soaking up the palm trees, piano music, and sneaking a peek at what the ladies at the next table are wearing. 

Sheer elegance

One lump or two?

"Your girl is lovely, Hubbell"

Me & Eloise

What happened to the question about world peace?

This morning I was sipping my coffee, thumbing through news articles from the last week of Financial Times and perusing my news feeds on my iPad.  

I almost stood up and applauded when I read this article on CNN about what transpired at the Miss Universe pageant earlier this week.

Here's an excerpt.

This question was posed to Leila Lopes of Angola, now our universe's newly crowned Miss Universe. 

"If you could change one of your physical characteristics," the designated judge asked her, "which one would it be and why?"

Are you (insert profanity) kidding me?

After standing under the magnifying glass of millions, this 25-year-old, 5-foot-10 ½-inch knockout had to publicly contemplate if she was physically good enough.

Her response was quick: "Thank God I am very-well satisfied with the way God created me, and I wouldn't change a thing. I consider myself a woman endowed with inner beauty. ... I have acquired many wonderful principles from my family, and I plan to follow these through the rest of my life. And now I would like to give all of you a piece of advice: Respect one another."

Now that's TRUE BEAUTY!    Leila, you definitely deserve a tiara for that answer!

Read the full story here.

When does busyness end and balance begin?

There has been a lot of tough stuff happening the past few weeks. My Facebook inbox is filled with a few dozen messages about difficult times rather than the usual routine chit chat from friends and clients.

Sending prayer requests to my Cursillo community has become a daily occurrence.

Sunday we reflected and remembered and recalled how our priorities shifted along with the NYC skyline. But how has that translated into our week just three days later?

I often refer back to these questions from author and coach, Cheryl Richardson, just to keep myself in check:

• If this were my last hour on earth, would I be happy with how I've spent my time today, this week, or this year?

• Would I feel good about the priorities I'm focused on right now at this point in my life?

• Do I feel complete and at peace with the people who matter most?

I think I can answer a strong yes to each of those questions, but I need to continue to ask them. It's so easy to get drawn off course.

Today's been jam packed and I look back at the day so far....teach a class, cover the desk for the remaining classes, participate on a conference call, finish a marketing project, write a blog post, a physical therapy appointment,  a hair appointment (like I said priorities!), prepare for a charity walk where I've volunteered to do the warm up, and get ready for a meeting and presentation in Rhode Island.   Am I happy with how I've spent my time? 

Actually yes. It always feels good to be productive.  But when does busyness end and balance begin? 

There's a small business meeting I could/should/had planned to attend later this evening,  but if I'm really listening to what I need, I think I'll be ready to hang out with my hubby and chat and then curl up and watch my latest Netflix (High Society - can't believe I've never seen it!).  Ah, I feel more relaxed already.

What do YOU need right now?

Remembering

In honor of the 10th Anniversary of 9/11, I am re-running a blog post from last year. What happened on my plane that day remains one of the most terrifying moments of my life. Everybody has a story to tell.

Everyone will at some point tomorrow remember where they were, what they were doing, who they called first, who they hugged first.  We will remember and reflect and pray in our own different ways.

At the the time I was fortunate to be part of an international team at DaimlerChrysler Financial. Belonging to an international team added a perspective to this event and provided a sense of support beyond the boundaries of my own country.

I was also fortunate that  my company did everything possible to bring me home safely that week. A long trip from Prague, to Germany to Paris, became even longer when I heard the news while in flight heading to New York. 

There was a uniqueness being on an international flight and sharing this experience with so many non-Americans.  We were also initially removed from the horrific pictures and news accounts, as we remained on the plane until 9/12 and ultimately in the care of the Canadian Red Cross and Navy for several days following. 

While reflecting, I pulled out a folder of emails I received the days following from my colleagues from around the world.

This line came from my boss Stephen Jepsen of Berlin...

"So far as I see, nobody was able to go back to work today without the feeling that something fundamental had changed in our western world in seconds yesterday. ..and  that these buildings, symbols for freedom and pride, don't exist anymore."

9/11/01  From the plane window in St. John's Newfoundland

Sept. 11, 2001

Yes, something fundamental did change that day.  I hope that what we hold on to is the reminder of what's really important in life.  I believe that we can keep the kindness and courage that was shown during that time alive in our words and actions every day. 


The moment that will forever be burned in my memory is finally reaching US soil and seeing the American flag, the true symbol of our freedom and pride, flying brightly.

Stir up your workout

Zip lining & tree climbing; Fall 2010

You are determined to hit the treadmill every day this week. But two weeks later, things have petered off and somehow Dancing with the Stars, that glass of Merlot and your couch pull you in like a magnet. 

Are you completely void of will power? I doubt it. Most people find themselves quickly tiring of the same old (and repetitive) routines. 

Here are a few ideas to breathe more life into your exercise routine to stay on track. 

Do one different workout each week: As a Jazzercise instructor I teach classes most days of the week, so once a week I do something completely different. Sometimes it's a yoga class, a bike ride or rollerblading. I can always ensure that there will be one non-Jazzercise workout in my week. 

Try a new sport or activity each month: I strive to try something new every month. I've tried belly dancing, Tai Chi, kayaking, Qigong, surfing, zip lining, horseback riding and boxing, and next month I'm trying a fencing class. Investigate sources such as www.meetup.com, or your local Continuing Education program for low cost options. 

Mix up your music: Sometimes just downloading a new playlist of fresh music can energize a workout that's lost its zip Surf iTunes to get ideas for motivating playlists. 

Plan an exercise outing or challenge: For the past three years I've ridden in the Five Boro Bike Tour. It's a 42-mile ride, which is a real challenge considering I don't bike very often. It's also now a tradition with friends, a physical challenge and an event I look forward to every year. Have you always wanted to run a 5K or tackle a triathlon? Make a plan to go for it. 

Use technology to spice it up: Surf podcasts, apps and websites for material to mix up your workouts. There is a lot of free material available to add variety to your workouts. Check out Netflix for a variety of workout DVDs to sample and you'll have new material delivered right to your mailbox. 

Try an active vacation: A hiking trip, white water rafting or a biking trip can be a great way to get out of a rut. This summer I went hiking in the Huangshaun mountains and climbed the Great Wall in China. The majestic scenery and breathtaking views made me forget it was a workout. 

Get inspired and get moving. 

Kristen Hallett Rzasa is the owner of InterPlay Health, LLC and Jazzercise. She is an entrepreneur, dancer, instructor, writer, yogi, golfer and avid reader.

PUBLISHED BY THE DAILY WESTPORT

It shouldn't take a hurricane

Our Irene Feast

In the Northeast we are slowing returning to normal following Irene's visit.  Although unlike even an unexpected house guests, she's left more than an extra load of laundry upon her departure.

The National Guard has arrived on the scene in my mom's town to assist with clean up and it won't be long until we are all  back online and refilling our refrigerators.  

If there is anything to like about Irene, it is that it brings us back to basics.

Food.  Shelter.  Water.  (Maslow sure had it right on this one!)

Family.  Togetherness.

We were forced to abandon the Blackberry, DVR, laptops and the entire line of Apple products.  We read, talked, napped and spent a little more time just BEING rather than DOING.  When was the last time your whole family unplugged?  Our days were simple and it enriched my feeling of gratitude of all that we so easily take for granted.

I hope we don't need a nasty weather forecast in our future to take that time again to just be with one another and TALK.

Besides cleaning out the frig has been on my list of things to do anyway!

The Lure of the List

I am list obsessed. I can't remember a time when I haven't had a list within arms reach. I suppose I could track it back to 1996 when I received my first Franklin Covey planner from the consulting firm I worked for at the time, but that just gave me an excuse to expand the lists and a nice faux leather case to swaddle them in.

The topics for my lists come in all shapes and sizes, from the mundane (Daily to do, Items I always buy at Costco) to the bucket list variety (Places I'd like to visit, Adventures I'd like to have).

They span both past (Books I've read {since '93}, Countries I've visited) and future (Books I'd like to read, Movie to see).

Then there's my favorite - 100 Things To Be, Do, or Have, which always offers up a bit of inspiration on a rainy day. And five years later I still have my 40 Things to do in my 40th Year, just because.

I have even been known to add something to the list AFTER it's complete JUST so I can cross it off. I suppose there's a 12 Step Program for this or perhaps TLC will be doing a reality series on The Lure of the List which will air right after Extreme Couponing.

Some are designed to keep me organized like my Project lists (categorized by short & long term and business & personal, of course). Others are simply designed to aid my pre-menopausal memory (Gifts to buy & Wines I'd like to try).

They are a means to catalog and create, and sometimes they are a simply a reminder of my options, of what's possible.

And anything that evokes hope and possibility is not a habit I plan to break anytime soon.

Now I'm off to cross 'write blog post' off my list.





- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Another K & P advenuture... in beading

Last night we embarked on another K & P adventure.  This time it was beading.  I know, it's much more docile than  previous adventures like surfing, zip lining, and horseback riding.   There were no anxiety attacks beforehand, no sweaty palms, and we certainly aren't sore this morning.

However, we are two self-proclaimed, non-crafty gals, so it was indeed an adventure of sorts. 

When I was growing up my closest childhood friend, Beth,  and I would lament to one another "what should we play today?"  Beth (who by the way is still a close and crafty  friend and I hope she's reading this) would exclaim, "Let's make things!"

I would groan.  Making things was just not my forte.

Beth's Barbies would be adorned in beautiful homemade gowns with rouching and trim and my Barbie would be sporting a wrap dress made out of Kleenex.  You get the picture.

So, when Pina and I embarked on our beading adventure we didn't know what results to expect.

Turns out it was fun.  We could both get hooked on this craft.  Our instructor, Erin, taught us about crimping and closures and the like and we both came home with darling little braclets. 

Here's what I realized: 

• You don't have to be skilled at something to give it a try.  Think you can't sing?  Roll down the windows and belt out a tune.  Think you have two left feet?  Get out on the dance floor and shake your booty.
• It doesn't matter if it's good, it matters that it's yours.  My bracelet won't be winning any awards, but when I look down at it, I know it's my handiwork.
• Girl time does a soul good.  After a rough week, I found beading to be relaxing.  The spinach and artichoke dip and wine which we enjoyed at an outdoor table in hip SoNo also helped, as did all of our chat in the "Girl Zone."
• And finally, when beading, bring your reading glasses if you wear them. Those suckers can be small!

What adventure will you embark on today? 

Stay tuned for more K & P adventures and we'd love to hear YOUR suggestions for our upcoming adventures.

Finished products: Pina (left), Kristen (right)

Relaxin' with Reiki

I had a great Reiki session last night with a special client and felt the need to spread some yummy Reiki energy! I first became interested in Reiki when I was preparing for surgery in 2008 and in my typical overachiever fashion, I began researching the quickest way to healing and recovery so that I could be back in action as soon as possible.

It worked.  

I've been hooked ever since and have loved to see how clients benefit.

One of the greatest Reiki healing health benefits is stress reduction and relaxation.  This triggers the natural healing abilities of our bodies and improves and maintains health by gently balancing life energy.

There's a lot of stress in the air right now.  Stress reduction isn't just a buzz word.  It's a choice.  

Do something to relieve your stress TODAY.  And if you're so moved, schedule a session and experience the healing and relaxing benefits of Reiki.  Find a practitioner near you OR if you're in lower Fairfield County, contact me and I'll come to YOU!  Now that's stress free!

Flexibility for Health

I LOVE my yoga!  Not only have I brought yoga into my business (two great classes a week with Kathleen & Mark) , I regularly practice at home as well as at another local studio.

Have you ever noticed that when you are flexible with your plans, life feels easier? Our bodies are like that, too. When we have physical flexibility, we move fluidly and easily in everything we do.

Stretching after strength training or aerobic exercise helps loosen muscles that may have tightened, balancing your body. Stretching on its own is great any time for improving your range of motion and increasing circulation, allowing more blood flow to all body parts including your brain. With regular stretching, you can even improve your posture and relax your mind.

You can begin a stretching program at any age.

Be sure to talk with your doctor before beginning an exercise regimen, especially if you are new to physical activity or are resuming after a long break.

Stretching Tips:

• Stretch easily and gently, only until you feel slight tension
• Don’t bounce
• Stop before you feel pain
• Breathe deeply, exhaling as you relax into each stretch

Good times to stretch:

• First thing in the morning
• After sitting or standing for long periods
• When you feel stiff or anxious
• While watching television or sitting at your desk
• Before falling asleep

Stretching Programs

Yoga – Dating back thousands of years, yoga continues to be a popular stretching program, and ranges from very gentle and slow forms to more rigorous power yoga that incorporates balance and strength with flexibility.

Tai Chi or Qigong – Also dating back thousands of years, tai chi and qigong are series of slow, gentle motions that circulate the body’s energy while loosening joints. Most movements can be done sitting or standing.

Pilates – Created in the early 1900s, Pilates is a system of exercises that increase flexibility, strength and coordination through mind-body control. While often done with machines, simpler version of Pilates can be done using only a floor mat.

Gymnastics or Swimming – More vigorous activities including gymnastics and swimming allow muscles to stretch and elongate while boosting your heart rate.

However you choose to stretch, try to do it three times per week – your body and mind will love you for it!


Time to stretch it out!


Tips adapted from Jazzercise.com 

What dance can do....

This weekend we'll be celebrating National Dance Day   and I'll be hosting a local event in Stamford.  

I'm still scurrying to master the choreography, as it comes on the heels of my return from China.  I've been to get on stick to blog about my experiences there, but am still processing, catching up and trying to wake up!

Then it  occurred to me that there is a strong tie between some of the work I did on the trip and this weekend's National Dance Day Event. 
I was fortunate enough to participate in the Yale Alumni Service Corp trip this month where I taught in  Xiuning County, which is in the Anhui province. Xiuning (pronounced "Shu-ning") comprises 9 towns and has a population of 274,000. It's located about 5 hours by bus west of Shanghai. 
 

Over 200 hundred volunteers  (including about 50 kids under 18) taught everything from tin whistles to film making to American Folk tales.  I taught English, Introduction to Theater and Collage Art in the High School and spent afternoons in the Middle School teaching Dance. 
 

In teaching the afternoon dance classes I was reminded that dance really is a universal language.  Communicating through movement is a beautiful concept and helps to instill confidence.  

 

Xiuning students strike a pose & learn to dance.

Dance is accessible to ALL levels.   Most (maybe all) of the kids I worked with had never had any type of dance class and it took some time for them to understand that there were no wrong moves. Even some of their teachers were intrigued and slipped into the back row to learn the steps.  It was all about moving and having FUN!.  That that's the message we want to spread at Saturday's event.  Move & enjoy it. Simple.

I recently received this email from one of my student translators who assisted in my dance classes.

How are you recently ? Although you left Xiuning just a few days , I miss you so much . I miss your smile , your dance . I always listen to the song   at home . And when I heard this song , I can not help but to move up . I may not remember all the movements and the sequence of actions, but I still remember some of them . You taught me how to dance . I had never danced like that . Thanks to you , you make me more confident .

Cherry Lee 

What better gift to share with someone than the gift of confidence.  It was truly an honor to watch the joy experienced by these children when they danced. 

All you have to do is Move Your Body .  

 

Hope to see you Saturday!

Ni hao from Xiuning

Ni hao from Xiuning!

It's steamy hot but full of crazy good energy here in Xiuning thus morning.

Today is our first day in front of the classroom and we're ready to rock!

We visited our classrooms yesterday. And while dirty, sparse & brutally hot, the site of the kids hanging over the balcony excitedly waving to us was awesome.

At lunch we hosted the government officials, as they are involved in EVERYTHNG. We were encouraged to go up & toast them individually as customary, rather having the typical group toast we do in America. Let's just say that's a lot of toasts!

Stay tuned as the adventure unfolds...

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Freedom & a serving of cole slaw - it must be the 4th!

Photo from here

This weekend I'm finishing up packing for China in between enjoying the usual holiday and family 4th of July festivities.

As I pack, I can't help but wonder how my perspective on freedom, the essence of this holiday, will be impacted during this trip.  Exploring and seeking to understand, or at least getting a glimpse into, another culture, especially one with such vastly different politics, is one of the wonders of traveling.


When I think of my own independence, I initially think of things I've done that I'm proud of, things like: 

• Buying my first home on my own
• Traveling solo to places like the Baltic Sea or camping & rafting down the Colorado river 
• Leasing my first commercial space and diving full time into the entrepreneurial life

Then I think about women who live quite different lives in other lands who do not have such opportunities.  I remember experiences such as visiting the Museum Haus am Checkpoint Charlie, a museum dedicated to the Berlin Wall. Story after story of those trying to escape over the wall amazed me as I thought of the many freedoms I enjoy.  

So while I celebrate my nephew's birthday, spend time with my family, and of course attend the traditional Rzasa 4th of July with the summer blend of cole slaw, I remember how the independence I enjoy has shaped my life.

Whatever independence means to you, this weekend, be grateful for your freedom.

Giddy up!

Me & Destiny

Last Friday Pina and I headed out for another K&P adventure.  This time we hit the trails in Monroe at Blue Spruce Farm.   There was a chance of rain, but despite the gray skies we enjoyed a beautiful trail ride through the woods with our guide John. 

Here's what I was reminded of while on the trail:

• Get outside! Everything feels better when you spend time in nature.
• Spend time with a friend, but try doing something active for a change 
• Go with the flow!   Pina's horse, Lady, was NOT in the mood to trot.  Honor YOUR moods and go with them.
• When your life speeds up (my horse Destiny DID want to trot) HOLD ON TIGHT and hope for the best!

Now go for it!

 

Summer wish list....

Summer is here folks!  How will you make the most of it?   NOW is the time to consciously design your summer.  Otherwise, you will be asking yourself over Labor Day weekend 'where did the summer go?'

I know it will go especially fast for me this year as I'll be spending a good chunk of July traveling to China on a cultural exchange/service trip.  And while that's VERY exciting for me, there are plenty of other things I want to be sure to include in my summer.

Here's a few items on my summer wish list....

• Hit the Farmer's Market every week   
• Rollerblade at the beach
• Get a pedicure with a bright happy color
• Visit the library for mindless summer reading, especially some good mysteries & chick lit
• See the last Harry Potter movie
• Play golf with my hubby as often as possible
• Enjoy Happy Hour on patio with my hubby on the weekends with a glass of cold Pinot Grigio or a margarita - our best chats happen here!
• Plan an outing with the Jazzer-girls to see The Help
• Eat lunch outside on every day that weather permits
• Host a summer cookout with THE gang 
• Get to NJ to visit my adorable nephews
• Celebrate the 4th of July with the Rzasa clan
• Have a summer adventure (or two) with Pina

What's on yours?

Fitness doesn't respect future workouts

 This morning I happened up a blog post by Peter Shankman which was honest and real and hopefully will make you think.  For those of you who know or follow Peter (met him a few years ago at a networking event) he's the PR and social media guru.   In his blog Peter shares the truth about his own journey and his struggle with complacency.

It's so easy to fall out of the habits that make us feel good and keep us healthy.   And as he says, we're often not even quite sure how it happens. What matters  most is making the choice to get back on track, as he's doing.

Here's a peak, but I encourage you to read the full post and be inspired!

"Fitness doesn't respect future workouts. Fitness only knows the here and now. If you eat a whole pizza now, that workout in three weeks won't mean shit to it. In the world of being healthy and in shape, there are millions of "I'll do this tomorrow" excuses lying by the side of the road, while the few healthy and in-shape people running past them shake their heads in pity.

You can't justify yourself to a better shape. You need to act on it, and you can't "schedule time" to act on it. It needs to happen all the time."

Amen to that Peter!  And all the best on your journey. 

Fresh from the Farmer's Market

Friday night's dinner

It's that time of year again - Farmer's Markets are opening up all over the area.  I love getting as much of our groceries as I can from local farmers and merchants.  The best organic food is what is grown closest to you.   The food doesn't have to travel as far, can be picked at its ripest and therefore needs fewer chemicals.  

I have been on a mission for a while now to buy as little processed food as possible and the summer Farmer's Markets make it easier.   

Last night we had fresh bread, fresh mozzerella, pesto and hot house tomatoes all made locally.

Our whole dinner was from the area (except for the wine :)). It was a quick easy dinner and healthier and tastier than ordering a pizza.  Plus since it is all local, this meal had much less impact on the environment, and lessening my carbon footprint has been an ongoing project in our  house. 

I encourage you to check out one of the local markets this week!   You can find one nearby almost any day of the week.  Happy shopping!