I have spent a lot of time, and I'm sure wasted too much energy, analyzing "why" I am here in Austin. I would like to believe that I could have found locations for my dance fitness classes in Peoria... it certainly should have been a lot easier given my established relationships. Could have been. Nothing is guaranteed.
With every non-reply and every "our schedule is full" and every "pay us this much" response, I am all the more grateful for teaching at the State Employee offices. While I still struggle to get space in the rooms there, the support of my participants overwhelms me.
Just in the past month, I have not only had the joy of their participation, but I also received three gifts... a sweet pencil that says "Shine Today," an inspirational calendar that is actually making me excited for January! and a traditional Chinese Mooncake. All three tokens of appreciation brought me tears of joy and heartfelt surprise. The Mooncake, however, stood out. It is named after the Moon Goddess "Chang'e" and symbolizes a spiritual feeling. 'To share this expresses love and best wishes,' and to receive it from Yanmei means a lot to me. She is one of my dedicated supporters who I have been SO very blessed to watch come out of her shell and gain confidence - and she says she feels stronger. Having her hand this to me... telling me how much my classes mean to her... I truly can't express the impact it has had on me.
I hate being insecure. My self-doubt borders on destroying me every damn day. If I can do one small thing and empower any other woman to not feel this dark feeling of being unworthy, I should know that that is success. In my mind, I know I am making a difference. I'm not changing the world, but if I can improve the world for a handful of others, that is priceless. And it's more than I ever thought I could do.
With one of my inspirations retiring this month, I am hoping to gain more opportunities to encourage others. In addition to dance fitness, if... no, WHEN I obtain the Group Fitness Instructor certification, with the help of my new friend Charlotte, I hope to add the toning class of Total Body Conditioning.
These ladies have more drive to exercise than any group I have ever known. Their dedication and energy is impressive, but I love most that they are supportive of one another. When I worked to become certified with SHiNE, I had hoped to get to know some of them and get them out of their comfort zones a bit and let loose. I did not consider the bonds and connections we would make and continue to develop.
I always loved the term "fitfam," but besides my soul sister, Marypat/MP!!!, I had not experienced it. Now, in our classes, my heart swells when I see them rock my new dance steps and listen to their feedback. Receiving gifts from them touches me so deeply. I hoped to instill confidence; I am blown away to make an impact. To be thought of outside our classes is the greatest compliment.
My research reflected that the Mooncake is not just a food, it's a profound cultural tradition deep in Chinese people's hearts, symbolizing a spiritual feeling. Honestly, that is what I want in dance. It isn't just movement. Dancing for me is a freedom of everything... Why I do it all the time, as much and as often as I can. If I can lead others to hold more confidence, then Mister DJ, please, play on.
Mooncake Credit: https://www.chinahighlights.com/festivals/mooncake.htm
Friday, September 28, 2018
Wednesday, August 29, 2018
Physical Changes
Weight and body image have always been and continue to be struggles for me. I am currently, however, in the best shape of my life... but I work damn hard at it. I am finally learning how to accept compliments.
As a teen, I developed quickly and had no pride of my physical appearance. Becoming a grown woman, I battled with changes in my metabolism. When I was (finally) pregnant with my daughter, I was nauseous the entire first trimester and consumed each brand of cracker on the market to settle my stomach... leading me to gain 40 pounds, and had a 4 pound baby.
I have no desire to tell anyone what "works." I am not perfect and am not at all an expert in health nor fitness. I DO believe that everyone's body is different and what is effective for one individual will not necessarily be the best option for another. And I DO advocate that you have to find what works for you.
For me, that became running (for the second time). In my 20s, I ran a little, but with Midwest weather and when I working full-time, it fell by the wayside. When Hope was three years old, however, I became more committed to it. Running two to three times per week, I splurged on a treadmill so that rain and freezing temperatures could no longer lead to excuses.
I've also studied Pilates and Yoga so that as muscles are developed, I can also maintain flexibility. Another belief shared by most: you need to do more than one style. It keeps your workouts from becoming mundane and it helps develop multiple muscle areas rather than just toning like just your legs all the time. Now that I am leading a dance fitness class, I am able to select the routines that target all areas of the body.
When I went back to work full-time, I began getting up at 4:50 a.m. to exercise. It was hard. It's still hard to do. But it's my priority, so I make it happen. My largest blessing, though is that working by the Capitol, I get the advantages of all sorts of additional workout sessions! Since I am still "new in town," I am still working on finding a public place to hold my own fitness classes. Yet, I at least get to provide dance fitness to state employees... which I LOVE.
When it comes to nutrition, anyone who knows me knows that I eat. Moving to Austin, I cut down a lot - when you cook for one, it's seldom elaborate! Again, I want to say that what one person finds successful for his/her body type will not necessarily work for another. A few things that I truly hope my readers will respect if they do not agree: I will not become a vegetarian because I love seafood, I appreciate chicken, and I will not give up the option to eat bacon. I only eat red meat about once every couple of months. I avoid "fast food" as much as possible. All in moderation. (Refer to my "There will always be cookies" blog!)
I am sharing this is because this is the third time in my life that I have actually felt pretty "good" about where I am physically. While I get nervous about it because I don't want to get comfortable, I remember that it's never, ever too late to instill your own improvements in how you value your health. There will be failures and days you don't do as well. Just like falling, however, it's okay as long as you pick yourself back up. Start small, build, and most of all - be patient. With age, hormone changes and health issues, weight fluctuates. I am growing in my self value, and I refuse to let it slip ever again.
As a teen, I developed quickly and had no pride of my physical appearance. Becoming a grown woman, I battled with changes in my metabolism. When I was (finally) pregnant with my daughter, I was nauseous the entire first trimester and consumed each brand of cracker on the market to settle my stomach... leading me to gain 40 pounds, and had a 4 pound baby.
I have no desire to tell anyone what "works." I am not perfect and am not at all an expert in health nor fitness. I DO believe that everyone's body is different and what is effective for one individual will not necessarily be the best option for another. And I DO advocate that you have to find what works for you.
For me, that became running (for the second time). In my 20s, I ran a little, but with Midwest weather and when I working full-time, it fell by the wayside. When Hope was three years old, however, I became more committed to it. Running two to three times per week, I splurged on a treadmill so that rain and freezing temperatures could no longer lead to excuses.
I've also studied Pilates and Yoga so that as muscles are developed, I can also maintain flexibility. Another belief shared by most: you need to do more than one style. It keeps your workouts from becoming mundane and it helps develop multiple muscle areas rather than just toning like just your legs all the time. Now that I am leading a dance fitness class, I am able to select the routines that target all areas of the body.
When I went back to work full-time, I began getting up at 4:50 a.m. to exercise. It was hard. It's still hard to do. But it's my priority, so I make it happen. My largest blessing, though is that working by the Capitol, I get the advantages of all sorts of additional workout sessions! Since I am still "new in town," I am still working on finding a public place to hold my own fitness classes. Yet, I at least get to provide dance fitness to state employees... which I LOVE.
When it comes to nutrition, anyone who knows me knows that I eat. Moving to Austin, I cut down a lot - when you cook for one, it's seldom elaborate! Again, I want to say that what one person finds successful for his/her body type will not necessarily work for another. A few things that I truly hope my readers will respect if they do not agree: I will not become a vegetarian because I love seafood, I appreciate chicken, and I will not give up the option to eat bacon. I only eat red meat about once every couple of months. I avoid "fast food" as much as possible. All in moderation. (Refer to my "There will always be cookies" blog!)
I am sharing this is because this is the third time in my life that I have actually felt pretty "good" about where I am physically. While I get nervous about it because I don't want to get comfortable, I remember that it's never, ever too late to instill your own improvements in how you value your health. There will be failures and days you don't do as well. Just like falling, however, it's okay as long as you pick yourself back up. Start small, build, and most of all - be patient. With age, hormone changes and health issues, weight fluctuates. I am growing in my self value, and I refuse to let it slip ever again.
Saturday, August 11, 2018
My New C: Coach!
Wow! Six months ago, I achieved my goal of Certified Dance Instructor for SHiNE Dance Fitness! It was a struggle to secure rooms in the state employment offices, but the support has been incredible. Gracious, encouraging women have helped me along the way, and I just could not be more appreciative!
Public class locations has been a greater battle. Since I am new to Austin, making connections at dance studios, gyms and activities centers has been an even larger challenge. FINALLY, in September, I am going to be able to host introductory classes on Saturday mornings. The Arthur Murray Dance Studios is letting me use one of their studios. I have no idea how many people want to wake up early to shake, sweat and SHiNE at 8 a.m., but I am excited to find out!
Still studying for AFAA Group Fitness Instructor certification, as well, I am also looking ahead at the next six months. I am definitely open to new opportunities and have a lot of ideas! I also know all too well that there will be more hurdles for me and many more rejections, but the photos of my amazing participants who dance with me and the emails I receive from them continue to encourage and inspire me.
When I started this endeavor in December, I fought self-doubt, pushed myself out of yet another comfort zone, and apparently I'm doing a pretty good job! #coach
Public class locations has been a greater battle. Since I am new to Austin, making connections at dance studios, gyms and activities centers has been an even larger challenge. FINALLY, in September, I am going to be able to host introductory classes on Saturday mornings. The Arthur Murray Dance Studios is letting me use one of their studios. I have no idea how many people want to wake up early to shake, sweat and SHiNE at 8 a.m., but I am excited to find out!
Still studying for AFAA Group Fitness Instructor certification, as well, I am also looking ahead at the next six months. I am definitely open to new opportunities and have a lot of ideas! I also know all too well that there will be more hurdles for me and many more rejections, but the photos of my amazing participants who dance with me and the emails I receive from them continue to encourage and inspire me.
When I started this endeavor in December, I fought self-doubt, pushed myself out of yet another comfort zone, and apparently I'm doing a pretty good job! #coach
Saturday, August 4, 2018
One Year Later...
A full year has passed since I moved to Austin, Texas. When I reflect on all I have learned so far, it is astonishing. I have suffered many disappointments, but I have enjoyed more personal triumphs, and overall, it has been good.
In twelve months, I have been blessed to make some terrific new friends and great business connections... I have continually pushed myself out of my comfort zone and not only learned my way around South Austin, I then adjusted to living just Northwest of the city. Seriously - the different format of frontage roads and U-turns under all the highways, it really feels like mastering a totally new way of driving.
My new little car... she is so fun. I am sad that I no longer have a vehicle to pass to my daughter, but all things happen for a reason... and it saves me additional drivers insurance anyway. #brightside
Speaking of, Hope has handled her transition Like A Boss. I am continually amazed and impressed by her resilience and strength. I didn't want this to happen to her. As much as I yearned to move to a warmer climate and a more progressive city, I had no desire to move her from her high school. When the opportunity was presented, however, there were too many reasons for me to leave Peoria. What I love most is that Hope recognizes them all and appreciates them. She is learning to not only cope with disappointments, but she finds the positives of the situations. That took me far longer to develop, and I'm still working on it!
While I have times of sorrow missing my loves and friends in Illinois, I hold them in my heart, and I know that I will see them again. The strong connections will always remain no matter how far the distance. I've received so many supportive messages that when I do feel all alone in this huge, exciting city, the words spoken and sent to me give me comfort.
My goals have altered as well. One year ago, I wanted to connect to my true self while learning a new employment position in a government role. Six months ago, I achieved certification as a Dance Fitness Instructor and am now studying for Group Fitness Instructor with AFAA. I am continually trying new things and having a really great experience.
No one really knows where their path will lead, but I am still enjoying my journey. My new mantra has solidly become "When nothing is certain, anything is possible." (-Mandy Hale)
Perspective. Positivity. Peace.
In twelve months, I have been blessed to make some terrific new friends and great business connections... I have continually pushed myself out of my comfort zone and not only learned my way around South Austin, I then adjusted to living just Northwest of the city. Seriously - the different format of frontage roads and U-turns under all the highways, it really feels like mastering a totally new way of driving.
My new little car... she is so fun. I am sad that I no longer have a vehicle to pass to my daughter, but all things happen for a reason... and it saves me additional drivers insurance anyway. #brightside
Speaking of, Hope has handled her transition Like A Boss. I am continually amazed and impressed by her resilience and strength. I didn't want this to happen to her. As much as I yearned to move to a warmer climate and a more progressive city, I had no desire to move her from her high school. When the opportunity was presented, however, there were too many reasons for me to leave Peoria. What I love most is that Hope recognizes them all and appreciates them. She is learning to not only cope with disappointments, but she finds the positives of the situations. That took me far longer to develop, and I'm still working on it!
While I have times of sorrow missing my loves and friends in Illinois, I hold them in my heart, and I know that I will see them again. The strong connections will always remain no matter how far the distance. I've received so many supportive messages that when I do feel all alone in this huge, exciting city, the words spoken and sent to me give me comfort.
My goals have altered as well. One year ago, I wanted to connect to my true self while learning a new employment position in a government role. Six months ago, I achieved certification as a Dance Fitness Instructor and am now studying for Group Fitness Instructor with AFAA. I am continually trying new things and having a really great experience.
No one really knows where their path will lead, but I am still enjoying my journey. My new mantra has solidly become "When nothing is certain, anything is possible." (-Mandy Hale)
Perspective. Positivity. Peace.
Tuesday, May 29, 2018
The Dragonfly - Who Knew?
Growing up in the Midwest, I never really paid attention to dragonflies. Once I knew they wouldn't sting you like wasps, bees and hornets (ouch!), I just saw them and knew I didn't have to feel fear.
Recently in Texas, hanging out with a friend at her pool, a dragonfly landed on me, and she told me it was "good luck." Laughing, I said that I could use a lot more dragonflies then! It did return a couple of times, landing on me now and again, and I thanked the little beauty... just in case it was actually trying to provide me some good vibes.
Two days later, at our apartment pool, three different dragonflies kept landing on me - the funniest was a blue on my nose... and yes, one decided to rest on my butt for a bit! Thinking of what Angie suggested about "luck," I referred to Google for some information.
Of course there is no way to know - every interaction is based on your own perception - but after reading that they carry "wisdom of transformation and adaptability in life," I feel that these little creatures are trying to remind me of my goals. To Clear my head and get rid of all the baggage that no longer serves me; to Connect spiritually to God and nature and all the Powers That Be; to Continue to grow and develop and flourish as the best person I can be. To not give up. Keep looking inward for clarity and know that I am glorious and loving and encouraging. Success is my own measure, and I have so many blessings.
My journey is nowhere close to being complete - besides, what would I do if it were? Relax? Not likely. But perhaps these aerial beings are coming to me to alert me to lighten up.
I'd like to believe they are sharing the following with me: Problems aren't generally solved quickly - especially the big ones. True solutions take time. Patience is a gift and needs to be practiced to be performed well. Stay light and adaptable, like the dragonflies, and ride on the winds of life. You'll arrive where you are meant to be, and you'll know when you get there. "Stay open to the enfoldment of your personal journey." I like it... maybe I need another tattoo.
My Google reading sources:
http://www.spiritanimal.info/dragonfly-spirit-animal/
https://themoonlightshop.com/blogs/news/17224984-dragonflies-and-you
Recently in Texas, hanging out with a friend at her pool, a dragonfly landed on me, and she told me it was "good luck." Laughing, I said that I could use a lot more dragonflies then! It did return a couple of times, landing on me now and again, and I thanked the little beauty... just in case it was actually trying to provide me some good vibes.
Two days later, at our apartment pool, three different dragonflies kept landing on me - the funniest was a blue on my nose... and yes, one decided to rest on my butt for a bit! Thinking of what Angie suggested about "luck," I referred to Google for some information.
Of course there is no way to know - every interaction is based on your own perception - but after reading that they carry "wisdom of transformation and adaptability in life," I feel that these little creatures are trying to remind me of my goals. To Clear my head and get rid of all the baggage that no longer serves me; to Connect spiritually to God and nature and all the Powers That Be; to Continue to grow and develop and flourish as the best person I can be. To not give up. Keep looking inward for clarity and know that I am glorious and loving and encouraging. Success is my own measure, and I have so many blessings.
My journey is nowhere close to being complete - besides, what would I do if it were? Relax? Not likely. But perhaps these aerial beings are coming to me to alert me to lighten up.
I'd like to believe they are sharing the following with me: Problems aren't generally solved quickly - especially the big ones. True solutions take time. Patience is a gift and needs to be practiced to be performed well. Stay light and adaptable, like the dragonflies, and ride on the winds of life. You'll arrive where you are meant to be, and you'll know when you get there. "Stay open to the enfoldment of your personal journey." I like it... maybe I need another tattoo.
My Google reading sources:
http://www.spiritanimal.info/dragonfly-spirit-animal/
https://themoonlightshop.com/blogs/news/17224984-dragonflies-and-you
Tuesday, May 15, 2018
Waiting for the Right Time...
I hold on to the belief that everything happens for a reason. Experiences shape our character and the people we meet affect our personality.
When I moved to Austin in August (2017), I did not feel ready to leave. Yes, I was determined and I admit that I was pretty damn excited, but I did not feel it was the right time to leave my friends and to move my daughter in her high school experience. The latter happened to me, and I hated it and have held the extreme disappointment ever since. I did make forever-friends in Wisconsin who I truly wish I could see a lot more often... but I am still upset that I did not get the "Senior Night on the football track" for Dance Team, and now, neither will my beautiful, talented, stunning daughter. But Hope is not me. She is stronger and wiser and has appreciation for the much broader scope of life that this relocation has provided.
My teenage daughter recognized it before I was able to do so. I love Peoria... but I did feel limited there. I pushed to own my own business, networked, and did all I could to feel successful. But shifting to a larger city in a climate that is much more suited to my hot blood... I know it was the right thing to do.
Given choices, I put off moving for her to have the High School experience that I had wanted... but things never go as I plan, and my daughter is flourishing. We have a very open friendship now, too, and I am finally able to celebrate that she actually likes me, wants to spend time with me and holds respect for me that I made a drastic move in hopes to improve life for all three of us.
If I had waited for the "right" time, I don't think any of this would have happened. I would not know myself as well as I do at this moment (and I still have a lot left to learn!), and I don't think I would hold so much continued excitement for the future.
I still don't know if Austin will be where I stay, but it is definitely my HOME right now. "When nothing is certain, anything is possible." There is a whole, big world out there... And the time to take leaps is always "right" because not only will everything be okay - things can be amazing if you just stop thinking and take the chance.
When I moved to Austin in August (2017), I did not feel ready to leave. Yes, I was determined and I admit that I was pretty damn excited, but I did not feel it was the right time to leave my friends and to move my daughter in her high school experience. The latter happened to me, and I hated it and have held the extreme disappointment ever since. I did make forever-friends in Wisconsin who I truly wish I could see a lot more often... but I am still upset that I did not get the "Senior Night on the football track" for Dance Team, and now, neither will my beautiful, talented, stunning daughter. But Hope is not me. She is stronger and wiser and has appreciation for the much broader scope of life that this relocation has provided.
My teenage daughter recognized it before I was able to do so. I love Peoria... but I did feel limited there. I pushed to own my own business, networked, and did all I could to feel successful. But shifting to a larger city in a climate that is much more suited to my hot blood... I know it was the right thing to do.
Given choices, I put off moving for her to have the High School experience that I had wanted... but things never go as I plan, and my daughter is flourishing. We have a very open friendship now, too, and I am finally able to celebrate that she actually likes me, wants to spend time with me and holds respect for me that I made a drastic move in hopes to improve life for all three of us.
If I had waited for the "right" time, I don't think any of this would have happened. I would not know myself as well as I do at this moment (and I still have a lot left to learn!), and I don't think I would hold so much continued excitement for the future.
I still don't know if Austin will be where I stay, but it is definitely my HOME right now. "When nothing is certain, anything is possible." There is a whole, big world out there... And the time to take leaps is always "right" because not only will everything be okay - things can be amazing if you just stop thinking and take the chance.
Wednesday, May 2, 2018
Another Year - an Unusual Year - Passes...
Another birthday passes, and this one was quite unusual. I trusted friends who encouraged me that "the 40's" were going to be great - that you finally "know yourself" and are comfortable in your skin. After moving to Austin nine months ago, that's certainly not my experience! Not yet, anyway.
I was making progress solo in ATX, though. Sure, I'm not currently pursuing my passion in a career. I'm not living in a space that is where I want to be after my daughter graduates high school. I've accepted that I will never inhabit the body of my choice, and I work with what I was given. But I continue to try to figure out my purpose in this world, and I don't feel remotely close.
My first birthday as an Austin resident was spent in my hometown of Peoria, Illinois. My sophomore daughter was invited to a prom, so - as a great parent would do, right? - I bought plane tickets and decided her monumental weekend was more important than another birthday in my books.
Then - the Illinois boyfriend broke up with my princess. We had already purchased the dress, bought the shoes, notified some friends... so, I let her decide if we should cancel. She asked if we could enjoy a "Girls Trip" weekend, or as I call it Non-Prom. "Sure! Sounds like fun!" I thought.
Central Illinois had beautiful weather during our visit - but still certainly not warm enough to keep me there. It really was terrific to see so many of my amazing and wonderful friends. Moving 1,000 miles away and leaving most of the people I love has been difficult. I have questioned my decision at least a million times. But yes, I did the right thing by leaving. Growth and development demand change - and I had been in great need of major change for several years.
For those I was able to see - even briefly - it meant so very much to me. It is not being able to see my friends that are so far away that makes my heart ache the most. Reflecting as we made our way back to Texas, I hope that seeing me wasn't a disappointment to anyone. I am still evolving, and I have a lot left to resolve and heal.
I know I don't belong in Peoria anymore, but I'm not sure I belong in Austin. Maybe I will never really feel like I belong anywhere... but I'm stuck with me for the rest of my life, and I will have to keep working on it
I was making progress solo in ATX, though. Sure, I'm not currently pursuing my passion in a career. I'm not living in a space that is where I want to be after my daughter graduates high school. I've accepted that I will never inhabit the body of my choice, and I work with what I was given. But I continue to try to figure out my purpose in this world, and I don't feel remotely close.
My first birthday as an Austin resident was spent in my hometown of Peoria, Illinois. My sophomore daughter was invited to a prom, so - as a great parent would do, right? - I bought plane tickets and decided her monumental weekend was more important than another birthday in my books.
Then - the Illinois boyfriend broke up with my princess. We had already purchased the dress, bought the shoes, notified some friends... so, I let her decide if we should cancel. She asked if we could enjoy a "Girls Trip" weekend, or as I call it Non-Prom. "Sure! Sounds like fun!" I thought.
Central Illinois had beautiful weather during our visit - but still certainly not warm enough to keep me there. It really was terrific to see so many of my amazing and wonderful friends. Moving 1,000 miles away and leaving most of the people I love has been difficult. I have questioned my decision at least a million times. But yes, I did the right thing by leaving. Growth and development demand change - and I had been in great need of major change for several years.
For those I was able to see - even briefly - it meant so very much to me. It is not being able to see my friends that are so far away that makes my heart ache the most. Reflecting as we made our way back to Texas, I hope that seeing me wasn't a disappointment to anyone. I am still evolving, and I have a lot left to resolve and heal.
I know I don't belong in Peoria anymore, but I'm not sure I belong in Austin. Maybe I will never really feel like I belong anywhere... but I'm stuck with me for the rest of my life, and I will have to keep working on it
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