tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12646776499914432062024-02-19T16:45:09.482-08:00Meema's TransformationAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15897673595285873474noreply@blogger.comBlogger18125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1264677649991443206.post-68220211391390906572016-01-01T13:20:00.002-08:002016-01-01T13:21:27.098-08:00It's been a long long timeFirst I must apologize. It's been over a year since my last blog post. And what's my excuse? I guess there are too many to mention. But as we have been reminded by parents/friends or even a spouse..someone out there has it worse than me. I certainly don't want to have excuse-itis either. So - I will chalk it up to 'life'. I have allowed my life circumstances to get in the way, again. AND I will have the lesson repeat itself until I learn to deal with it. So many times (especially with the new year here) I set a goal (resolution) that I am going to control my calendar and well - it has been controlling me - for a very long time.<br />
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<b>I am always on the go</b> - my poor mother is very worried about me. She will call to ask how things are going and I ramble away at what needs to be done today or what I'm doing tomorrow. Her response is usually; Sherri, why not take a day and rest. Sometimes - I will listen to her advice. Usually; I'm rushing out the door.<br />
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It is hard to sit and relax. I have 5 children, 3 grandchildren, a hubby, 2 jobs, and - yes I'm crazy! I am starting another venture with a friend of mine, and my home/family to take care of. I honestly look around and see SO many things on the to-do list that I become paralysed and I don't accomplish what I want to get done. And I feel guilty I'm letting people down. Feeling like a failure. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>I'm busy busy</b>! accomplishing - well - to be perfectly honest... <i>absolutely nothing!</i></span></div>
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<b>Time is something we don't have total control of</b>. Of course we have control of what we DO with time, but we can't control, stop or stall out time.<br />
My dominate personality is choleric or assertive or competitive or a lion and the colour yellow- which ever system you use to determine what you are. Here's a link for a test to find out what your <a href="http://www.gotoquiz.com/personality_plus_1" target="_blank">dominate personality</a> is. I always feel the need to be in control. And the need to control time.</div>
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This year has been on the top of the list of being a difficult year (which continued from last year - the ball just kept rolling into this one!) It was difficult in many areas...emotionally, physically, mentally financially and sometimes I will admit; spiritually. And oh - to add to that with a little chuckle- the change of life is slowing creeping in! I cry over everything! </div>
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So I guess I have a few conflicting statements...I want to control my calendar but I can't control time.</div>
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That's exactly right. I need to control my calendar because the clock ticks away every second with or without my approval. But if I can get <i>really good</i> at my calendar - I can actually control what goes on IN my calendar. Yes things will happen unexpectedly. But at this moment - if that were happen, I would be completely thrown off. I end up juggling everything in the air - sure to drop something! But if I have it on my calendar...I can move things around - even to the next day! At the end of the day - I'm satisfied with what I have accomplished!</div>
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I have quite a few goals for this year. And I need to control what I put in my calendar everyday so I can move toward achieving them. </div>
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I also want to make time for the important people in my life....</div>
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<b>at the top </b>of the list - a deeper <i>relationship with God</i> - he needs to be my everything.</div>
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<b>second</b> on that list - <i>my hubby</i> - as my kids will come and go but he is my BFF</div>
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<b>third</b> on that list - my <i>kids/grandkids</i> - being there for them through the good, the bad and the ugly.</div>
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<b>fourth </b>on the list - <i>myself</i>. Making time for myself to enjoy my hobbies, (crocheting right now is my favourite), reading (oh how I miss my book time!) and taking care of my body, in every way - physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually! </div>
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<b>last but certainly not the least</b> - my <i>friends</i>. I have a few close friends that it has been way too long. We all lead such full lives and of course - time marches on and the next thing we know - it's months since I've sat down and had a coffee with them!<br />
Writing these priorities into my calendar will help me feel like I'm at least in control of my calendar and use my time wisely and feel satisfied with my time well spent.</div>
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The <a href="http://www.passionplanner.com/#home-2-section" target="_blank">Passion Planner</a>. This is an amazing tool! You can order online or <a href="http://www.passionplanner.com/downloads-2/" target="_blank">download it</a>!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15897673595285873474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1264677649991443206.post-9746517810962258772014-10-23T10:27:00.000-07:002014-10-23T10:27:30.765-07:00Marriage. It's What Brings Us Together Today.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am a wife.</div>
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Of course, I am also a daughter, a sister, a mother, and meemaw, I love all of those titles and all of those roles, but paramount to all of these is wife.<br /></div>
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One of my greatest hopes is that my marriage is a representation of love and commitment to all who know me; even more important however, is the example I set for my kids. In fact, I would say that being a great wife to my husband is quite possibly the most important thing I can do for my children.</div>
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My marriage is in no way perfect, nor can I say I am an expert on the subject. What I can say however, is I am committed to learning and growing in my role as wife and have been for over 25 years. Marriage takes work - a lot of work - but, everything worthwhile does.</div>
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This blog, "Meemaw's Transformation" is a series of thoughts and musings of my life. A theme you will see more of here will be on the topic of love and marriage - as that is central to who I am.<br /><br />One of the most important books I've read on the topic of marriage (and relationships in general) is <a href="http://www.5lovelanguages.com/" target="_blank">The Five Love Languages</a><br />In the book, the author Dr. Chapman explains that there are 5 specific languages each of us speak and understand. More often than not, husbands and wives don't speak the same language. I guess that's the bad news. The good news is: we can learn each others language. And it's really not that hard!</div>
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I encourage you, for the sake of your relationship, learn your spouse's Love Language. Words of affirmation, acts of service, receiving gifts, quality time, physical touch. Which language do you speak? Which language does your husband understand? Take the test here: <a href="http://www.5lovelanguages.com/" target="_blank">http://www.5lovelanguages.com/ </a></div>
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On November 18, Dr. Chapman is bringing his 5 Love Languages tour to my home church in Grimsby, <a href="http://lakemount.ca/" target="_blank">Lakemount Worship Centre</a><br />If there is any way you can make it out, please do. I promise you, by applying what you learn in the 5 Love Languages, your marriage can't help but improve.</div>
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Order your tickets here: <a href="http://www.lakemount.ca/upcoming/events/dr-gary-chapman-tour">http://www.lakemount.ca/upcoming/events/dr-gary-chapman-tour</a></div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15897673595285873474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1264677649991443206.post-6688608852410771852014-09-02T10:48:00.000-07:002014-09-02T10:48:57.261-07:00Silence - is it golden?<b>Silence....</b><br />
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This post is a hard one to write. Let's go back a few months ago.<br />
I want to apologize for not 'continuing' my journey as I had planned. My life has been - well - hectic x 1000! Due to family circumstances I needed to find employment that would give me more than 1 day a week. I landed a 'good' j-o-b that became all consuming. Hard pressure sales job. The job itself isn't hard but the leadership - lets just say they need to read more people-skills books. The pressure was mounting. I had quite a bit to deal with on the home front and now add this job stress. My body decided it would revolt to the pressure and I began to crumble. Checked in with my doctor - he strongly suggested a "stress leave" and "change of job". Easier said than done on both counts! SO to add to the already mounting anxiety/panic attacks - now I feel guilty (that I left a large hole in the company where I occupied space) and now - sit? Relax? Enjoy life? WHAT?!? How do I do that?!? I'm not lazy?!? I have some hard lessons to learn here!<br />
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I'm not writing this so I receive sympathy or as a poor me - I'm writing this to tell myself - I have a plan. I know how to get through this! I'm giving myself a self talk. I need to speak positive to myself. I heard a speaker once say, "if your loved one spoke to you like you speak to yourself - you would probably punch them in the throat"<br />
SO why do we speak so negatively to ourselves? I need to take time and dig deep. I have been reading leadership, attitude, relationship books for quite a while now. I have been preparing for this day (unknowingly of course).<br />
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I have been surrounded by an ocean of negative words and attitudes from this j-o-b for months. As a child/youth I had always heard: GARBAGE IN/GARBAGE OUT. Ouch. It is so hard to live positive when you are surrounded by negative - I tried. I fought to stay positive. The problem was, I wasn't allowing any time for positive influences to combat the negative.<br />
I was allowing the negative to take over. The war raging inside was so real. I am a strong person - if you know 'the personalities' yup - <a href="http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/books/product/9780800754457-item.html?s_campaign=goo-PLATest&gclid=CjwKEAjw1ZWgBRD-n6ew0oan1xwSJABAbf8pGgaEh3OnGcLaeiw0vTlGCRKsLVEQWeSRDKeEHnqHSBoCHH7w_wcB" target="_blank">I'm a raging choleric</a>! I thought nothing could take me down. As they say; the first step to recovery is admitting you have a problem. Up until last week however, I could feel I was losing control. Silence was killing me. Sherri crying at work! What? You get the idea. I need to move on.<br />
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So - moving forward what am I going to do? The doctor has ordered me to stop what I am doing, and get better. First things first. Positive In will result in Positive Out.<br />
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<b>Back to reading. </b><br />
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Not fiction or the latest books in the must read shelves at the nearest bookstore. Books that will help me change my life. My attitude. Help me with relationships with my husband, my kids, and my friends. Books that the authors have fruit on the tree. They have successfully mastered what they have written. I have leadership and motivational cds coming out my ears. Again - positive influence.<br />
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<b>I need to listen to them daily.</b><br />
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I need to reach down and find all the life principles I have learned over the years and start the healing process.<br />
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At the same time - stop looking so hard at myself and <em>help others</em>. Thousands of people need something positive spoken over their life! I need to be careful that I don't consume myself with me. Surround myself again with those that are encouraging and uplifting. TALK to people! Not whining or poor me. It's ok for people to know you are going through something. My mom always said, 'is it a hill to die on'. There are times that whatever the 'fight' is, isn't worth dying for. A petty argument or a silly issue. Other times? Absolutely! Fight for your freedom, your rights, your life!<br />
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Right now - I'm yelling from the mountain tops! FIGHT! Don't sit silent and try to wish it away. Allow people to help you. Allow people to speak into your life. If you need someone to talk to? I'm here. Don't be silent. Help yourself. Only YOU can pull yourself out. YOU have to make the decision to get out of bed. Look in the mirror and say, YOU are great. YOU have a purpose. YOU need to make a difference.<br />
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I won't be throwing all my dirty laundry onto Facebook or twitter or even on this blog. I'm writing this praying it makes a difference to one person. It's going to be a good day!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15897673595285873474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1264677649991443206.post-9449491142613201882014-03-28T07:44:00.000-07:002014-03-28T07:44:16.043-07:00Sad, Excited, Scared to Death!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My 'last' day at work was yesterday, Thursday March 27th. Well, I guess I should be honest - my official last day was March 17th - the day I worked. BUT, they asked me to come in for lunch. Free food! I'm there! <br />Mixed emotions went through my head yesterday as I drove the hour of time along the highway from Niagara to Locke Street Hamilton. This will be the last day I make this trip to work. We went to a little bistro down the street for lunch. We tried not to talk shop but what awaited all of the us the next few months. My co-worker is going on a cruise, for myself, the NEW career path. My co-worker Lisa and I headed back to the office to tie up a few loose ends. Lisa is thrilled with my new position but hates me all at the same time.<br />
We knew each other as kids and reconnected just a couple years ago with many years under out belts. Marriage, kids, great times, sad times. We shared a very special year building a relationship that we both vowed we would keep. We hugged goodbye - chatted for another few moments, hugged goodbye again. After 3 times Lisa said - please leave, I think I'm going to cry. As I walked out the door, my heart sank. Lisa called out - "Have a great weekend! See you next week!" She heard me stop in my tracks, she loudly whispered, "Just humour me". I called back and said my usual - "Don' stay too late! See you next week!"<br />
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Today - just taking it easy. Looking through my closet. The last six years I have worked as a Rehabilitation Support Worker for those that have survived a car accident but are now left to deal with a head injury. This job was exhausting - both mentally and physically at times but very rewarding! I have learned so much from my clients. One point: never take your life for granted and appreciate what you can do, each and everyday! My attire? yoga pants, sneakers, t-shirts and hoodies for 6 years! I took on helping out in the office between clients, setting up systems and learning the acquired brain injury lingo and teams. Dress code for the office? Whatever I felt like that day. Jeans with a cute top, dress pants and blouse or even a skirt with a scarf accessory.<br />
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Monday March 31st I start my new journey. I accepted a position as Community Sales Lead for Holiday Retirement at Stamford Estates. This is the scared to death part! I have done a little bit of sales with the jobs I have had over the years. BUT I know I can do this! I have had the priviledge to know the compnay as my Grandma Forrest (who just turned 93 last week! Happy Birthday!) lived in one of these communities in Hamilton, Court at Rushdale. They are beautiful retirement facilities. This company takes care of the littlest details. <br />Dress code? Not yoga pants and tees! Business. Which is great - I LOVE my heels! My tootsies will ache my first couple of weeks! I will be meeting new people. Meeting their needs to have an amazing time in their retirement. Getting out into the community meeting new friends and acquaintances.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMRTwiXxdFAu8TuUGI2Iy-uj4Uv1vCYzbg89yleGPQWSTqdjaiGMpdGS3-ehPTWSbQ8_Q53IveSOYAHeLeS7v4TWMfH-_FUcR9Lt6WrvItmIVg4z9qIQORAgg1YZS4TngsFxr4fcWrUgY/s1600/about+the+journey.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMRTwiXxdFAu8TuUGI2Iy-uj4Uv1vCYzbg89yleGPQWSTqdjaiGMpdGS3-ehPTWSbQ8_Q53IveSOYAHeLeS7v4TWMfH-_FUcR9Lt6WrvItmIVg4z9qIQORAgg1YZS4TngsFxr4fcWrUgY/s1600/about+the+journey.png" height="212" width="320" /></a>I'm waiting for someone to say - ummm Sherri, you have been in the rehab world for 6 years, before that you have worked as executive assistants, fitness trainer and mom. Now! At the ripe age of 46 you are embarking on a NEW journey? That's right! And why not! For years I have been and continue to be involved in leadership development. Subscribing to books to better myself in leadership, people skills, all aspects of my LIFE. All that learning has led me to this! I have been on my LIFE journey the day I arrived and nestled in my moms arms. Just taking a different road that I have been on for the last 6 years. I know my destination. Its the journey that counts.<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15897673595285873474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1264677649991443206.post-70159916674825385152014-03-21T20:03:00.000-07:002014-03-21T20:03:53.656-07:00Days like these....<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_DKLPrnoBb4HP2w8cmytw3644AYVz7VowIP5Pelv1zzrhiKIOILCXKZpsfn-Lib45CT1yOSgpmARalf0hR5Gs2Vww1ZX0eK3UL0ucF-DHzay9RoV-GTPK1WRM0Mta5r6baPFJqdEjUjU/s1600/create+your+own+sunshine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_DKLPrnoBb4HP2w8cmytw3644AYVz7VowIP5Pelv1zzrhiKIOILCXKZpsfn-Lib45CT1yOSgpmARalf0hR5Gs2Vww1ZX0eK3UL0ucF-DHzay9RoV-GTPK1WRM0Mta5r6baPFJqdEjUjU/s1600/create+your+own+sunshine.jpg" height="310" width="320" /></a></div>
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Days like these...you wake up - the alarm scares you out of your skin! You look at the time and say "really? That was a short night!" </div>
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You get up - trip over the dog, step on a lego on your way to get that coffee you so desperately need! You look outside and the sun has decided to stay hidden. It's ok, it just added to how you were feeling. You want to just crawl back in bed, pull the cover over your head and WAIT for the sun to come out to make your day! You can`t call your girlfriend, she hasn`t had her coffee yet either. You can`t call your other girlfriend as you know she has been up all night with her newborn. You just need someone to take out that cattle prod and give you a zap so you can get on with your day. I've been there.</div>
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BUT, I have learned that somedays I have to create my own sunshine. As my good friend <a href="http://claude-hamilton.com/" target="_blank">Claude Hamilton</a> says - "flick your own bick!" Create that sunshine in your life! <b>You and I</b> decide each and every day how it is going to be. Not the horoscope in the paper, not even the dj announcer can `rev` you up. That cup of coffee; it wears off quick. So instead, look inward and ask yourself;<b> how can I create my own sunshine</b> today? What attitude am I going to have today? </div>
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There are SO many things we can be grateful for. We are all <i>loved</i> by someone, a friend, a relative, your pet, someone! We all have someone in our life that cares about us. You have <i>a job</i>. So many are without work these days. You are<i> healthy</i>. I may have the sniffles today but there are many that are battling for their life. <i>Food</i> in your cupboards. Maybe your cupboards aren't bursting at the seams but you didn't have to visit a foodbank this week. Your <i>family</i>. Many people at your work, in your neighborhood, on the bus; are estranged from their families and there is no relationship. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvVQjZQHbE4okV7RviihDfdzAgNwg-yZUwJW5rd5eT0iYUPZcU053FCfGzIT-IoLvGV95yhyphenhyphenPFJANtHEB5Drk2dTCXOnRwIvSNiBLuc6gN5fxPfkMAbieIG7tvJ0UgaHGBBfDbKHxSLLk/s1600/someting+good+in+every+day.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvVQjZQHbE4okV7RviihDfdzAgNwg-yZUwJW5rd5eT0iYUPZcU053FCfGzIT-IoLvGV95yhyphenhyphenPFJANtHEB5Drk2dTCXOnRwIvSNiBLuc6gN5fxPfkMAbieIG7tvJ0UgaHGBBfDbKHxSLLk/s1600/someting+good+in+every+day.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
There is always <b>something good</b> in every day! Your car started! You didn't put a run in your pantyhose, or you did but a new pair was hiding in your drawer! You had all green lights going to work! You found that lost earring in your sweater! It isn't snowing! (that is a wonderful news for those of us that have had to deal with quite a bit of snow this winter). Your coffee is just right!<div>
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Then there are even the little things that keep that smile on your face! When a person holds the door open for you or the vehicle in front of you pays for your coffee or you hear a childs giggle. How about a complete stranger who walks by and says 'hello' or someone says, "after you". Or even better! YOU are on the giving end. YOU make someones day a little brighter. These things brighten your day as well!</div>
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A song I just found - love it! Days like these - they go by way too fast. Days like these you wanna make them last. Check out this song! <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AUZBtfvwHSY" target="_blank">Jason Aldean - Days like these</a></div>
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Tomorrow morning, if the sun isn't shining over your home...make your own sunshine and have a GREAT day!</h2>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15897673595285873474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1264677649991443206.post-55509434693884769372014-03-17T08:21:00.000-07:002014-03-17T08:34:14.854-07:00I Have A Choice<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm not going to lie; I am disappointed.</div>
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Following the Twitter hashtag, <a href="https://twitter.com/search?q=%23LVERaquaContest&src=hash" target="_blank">#LVERaquaContest</a> yesterday morning, I discovered that<a href="http://www.lavieenrose.com/" target="_blank"> La Vie En Rose</a> had contacted the three finalists for their Aqua Brand Ambassador contest. I was not one of them.<br />
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My sincere congratulations goes out to the three finalists - I think that this will be an amazing opportunity for them - and so I wish each of them the best of luck. </div>
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My disappointment comes for two reasons and is accompanied by a choice. <br />
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When I first started this journey to become the brand ambassador for <a href="http://www.lavieenrose.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Catalog?catalogId=10001&storeId=10052&langId=-1&identifier=SWIM14S" target="_blank">La Vie En Rose's swimwear line, Aqua</a>, I really thought it was a long-shot. The more I worked out, blogged and thought about it however, the more I believed I could actually be a finalist in this contest. I met all the qualifications and was pursuing it with great energy on my social networks. As the date of the announcement grew closer, I thought for sure I would get a call.<br />
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The second reason for my disappointment is a little deeper than just not winning. My thoughts and hopes were, coming into this contest, that the brand would take a more thoughtful approach to their future advertising and marketing campaigns. All of La Vie En Rose's ads feature young women with beautiful, flawless bodies (and yes - I understand they are selling lingerie and swimwear). However, every time I visit one of their stores, I see women my age and older shopping. We are their clientele, and I was hoping that they would choose a brand ambassador who would reflect the ideals and character of not only the store, but of the women who shop there.<br />
I hope that doesn't come across as "sour grapes". I simply believe that they could have chosen an older woman (not necessarily even me) as one of their top three finalists to represent the demographic that is most likely to support their brand. Women whose bodies have been through the trauma of child-birth, women who have experienced both the pleasure and pain of life and relationships, women who want to be told they are beautiful when they least feel it. I really think they missed an opportunity.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT0tAub2TdUwMY5h9fx05Ev3_xIyiDT-eZxab2Y2TH8plNZQtGXE3Mar6ySOEtOo9UDaGX-eqrbGz4rpV_v4Ha9Z-Q3nuts3XxABZ13WG-tqB40aDO5N0XChiS6Y5-Z1TGvGPkk-0hvUI/s1600/1780624_469404119848191_581532469_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhT0tAub2TdUwMY5h9fx05Ev3_xIyiDT-eZxab2Y2TH8plNZQtGXE3Mar6ySOEtOo9UDaGX-eqrbGz4rpV_v4Ha9Z-Q3nuts3XxABZ13WG-tqB40aDO5N0XChiS6Y5-Z1TGvGPkk-0hvUI/s1600/1780624_469404119848191_581532469_n.jpg" height="283" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>I have a choice to make - I can be bitter <br />OR <br />I can choose to become better.</b> </div>
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My journey is not over. This blog is titled "Meema's Transformation". I am not done. I have not arrived. Today I will become better than I was yesterday; Body, Mind and Spirit. Mine is a journey of transformation, and transformation is not a destination, it is a process. <br />
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I hope you continue to join me on this journey. I believe that as each of us focus on becoming beautiful from the inside out, the world in turn will become just that much more beautiful.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15897673595285873474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1264677649991443206.post-42414498772369681472014-03-06T18:26:00.001-08:002014-03-06T18:27:34.782-08:00She made her DASH count!It is with sadness and tears that I write this post. Heaven gained a beautiful woman yesterday. This woman did not have an easy life, a single mom trying to make ends meet. Struggling to be a good mom and working so hard. She knew there was more to this life she was living. She decided to turn her world upside down. She took the hard way out, so her life would get easier. She made the sacrifices to live her life on purpose. She read books that would change her life forever. Finding her soul mate, she married her knight in shining armour that would slay any dragon that would come her way, he gave her the world. She gave birth to three more beautiful children, making her family complete. She listened to her mentors and applied what she heard. She became an amazing mom, a wonderful spouse to her loving husband and a successful business woman. She only wanted the very best for her children. Everything she did was to better their life. She became a leader/mentor and friend to thousands of women. She helped them see themselves as champions and winners as well. She was an example of being beautiful inside and out.<br />
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<b>Jackie Lewis' life; "it's all or nothing!"</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPNVgcLUGhv7d7TL5nMaqdpqxp5OG-KnpBeEWAV7DLIM0H7_npA2DXy3zYuJwUez-6bY3awH3JkunVLCUjDM20TCf7I41IOnUNuY7BB3YlI9g8cIJ7CyPSX27DtkzcBgZX7_FvmmNakcI/s1600/IMG_31349577417113.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPNVgcLUGhv7d7TL5nMaqdpqxp5OG-KnpBeEWAV7DLIM0H7_npA2DXy3zYuJwUez-6bY3awH3JkunVLCUjDM20TCf7I41IOnUNuY7BB3YlI9g8cIJ7CyPSX27DtkzcBgZX7_FvmmNakcI/s1600/IMG_31349577417113.jpeg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>"You only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough." Jackie Lewis</b></div>
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I heard a story from Laurie Woodward about <a href="http://%20http//www.linda-ellis.com/the-dash-the-dash-poem-by-linda-ellis-.html"><i>The Dash.</i></a><i> </i>That little line between our date of birth and date of death. That little dash is so significant. Jackie's dash could circle our globe quite a few times. She made her dash count! She had touched more hearts in her short time than is possible to even imagine.<br />
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<i><b>"I don't believe in circumstances. The people who really make it in this world are the ones who get up and look for the circumstances they want and if they can't find them, they make them". </b></i><u>Jackie</u> Lewis</div>
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Jackie Lewis wasn't feeling well last weekend. Going to the hospital they thought it was a bug bite from Puerto Rico not long ago. Her vital signs became grim. Her brain began to swell and would not respond to medication. They transferred her to the Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit, giving her access to some of the best physicians in the country. The doctors worked hard to save her. Machines were now keeping her alive. With Bill holding his four children, Jacob, Eli, Bella and Nemo, by her side they said goodbye to their mom and loving wife for the last time. <br />
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It's so hard to think about it. She wasn't in an accident. She wasn't terminally ill. We saw her just two weeks ago, full of laughter and a love for LIFE! <br />
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I have learned so many life lessons from Jackie. <u>Her</u> legacy will live on in all of us whom she inspired to strive to be beautiful and strong on the inside. <br />
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<i><b>"A </b></i><i><b>candle</b></i><i><b> loses nothing when it lights another candle" </b></i>Thomas <u>Jefferson</u></div>
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Jackie lit many candles in her lifetime. Following her lead, we now keep that candle lit and find others that need that light. <br />
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You can read posts and memories from hundreds of people <a href="http://jackielewisblog.wordpress.com/2014/03/06/please-post-your-memories-of-jackie/http://jackielewisblog.wordpress.com/2014/03/06/please-post-your-memories-of-jackie/http://jackielewisblog.wordpress.com/2014/03/06/please-post-your-memories-of-jackie/" target="_blank">Jackie</a> Lewis inspired.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15897673595285873474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1264677649991443206.post-89534848881741818582014-03-04T12:13:00.001-08:002014-03-04T12:14:10.847-08:00The Home Stretch<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Well, it's Tuesday March 4 and it is snowing again!! I sooo hope I am chosen as the <a href="http://www.lavieenrose.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Catalog?catalogId=10001&storeId=10052&langId=-1&identifier=SWIM14S" target="_blank">La Vie En Rose Aqua brand ambassador</a>! I NEED a trip to the Riviera Maya.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuLoIpNnoA7VYq0U7laiBQapaG6leMlNwLqmOyYSuv69Qn0yhi6brQIL2XdASwIb8Hcs41ZwpfarGBdd7Fc4iTsGAplfNwV1AXQ65ZT60UmyXGIPPgbslafXdyqDV1bjeKt_z10Z5W_Ls/s1600/1797497_475911152530821_850489249_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuLoIpNnoA7VYq0U7laiBQapaG6leMlNwLqmOyYSuv69Qn0yhi6brQIL2XdASwIb8Hcs41ZwpfarGBdd7Fc4iTsGAplfNwV1AXQ65ZT60UmyXGIPPgbslafXdyqDV1bjeKt_z10Z5W_Ls/s1600/1797497_475911152530821_850489249_n.jpg" height="301" width="320" /></a>Our internet at home has been down for the past week - and won't be back up until this coming Thursday. I never really noticed how much I relied on the 'net until it was gone. In a way it's been a nice break - unplugging - but on the other hand it has been incredibly frustrating.<br />
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Our service provider (who will remain nameless) uses Bell lines. From what I understand, there was a work order for one of our neighbors' services and while there, the Bell guy took the liberty of removing our internet card (as he assumed if it wasn't listed with Bell, it was unused). And so... we wait.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYefO5N-qGonYEDP_A6qXyZJd8N-tKgqUEU-8lYBE01FF6YSGjJeiq8HexsEn9Pw1SRHtXbZ9O52KS6ArJ2hNuRIqrT9u2gKIouFT0dKUW-z4GQKzmFOpboEA2mzcaAmxx-760haoHazg/s1600/1796628_10152098428973999_1515100945_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYefO5N-qGonYEDP_A6qXyZJd8N-tKgqUEU-8lYBE01FF6YSGjJeiq8HexsEn9Pw1SRHtXbZ9O52KS6ArJ2hNuRIqrT9u2gKIouFT0dKUW-z4GQKzmFOpboEA2mzcaAmxx-760haoHazg/s1600/1796628_10152098428973999_1515100945_n.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a><br />
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I did want to take this opportunity (while I am online) to thank you for your encouragement and kind words about my challenge. The contest to become the <a href="http://www.lavieenrose.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Catalog?catalogId=10001&storeId=10052&langId=-1&identifier=SWIM14S" target="_blank">La Vie En Rose Aqua brand ambassador</a> has given me a goal to work towards. I know there are many others more qualified, with more <a href="http://www.twitter.com/sprankard" target="_blank">Twitter </a>followers, and amazing "bikini-bods" who have already submitted their application - and that's ok.<br />
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Whether I have the opportunity to travel to Mexico with <a href="http://www.lavieenrose.com/" target="_blank">La Vie En Rose</a> and post about their fantastic <a href="http://www.lavieenrose.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Catalog?catalogId=10001&storeId=10052&langId=-1&identifier=SWIM14S&pageId=SWIMWEAR" target="_blank">swimwear </a>line or not; I am happy to have begun the process of my transformation. I love how I feel right now. I love working out. I love eating right. I love connecting with other like-minded women. I love change!<br />
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The deadline to apply for the <a href="http://www.lavieenrose.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Catalog?catalogId=10001&storeId=10052&langId=-1&identifier=SWIM14S&pageId=CONTEST" target="_blank">contest </a>is March 9 (this coming Sunday). My transformation will in no way be complete by then; in fact, I'll just be getting started. This is now a life-long journey of improving every area of my life - and I hope you join me!<br />
<span id="goog_1709221570"></span><span id="goog_1709221571"></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15897673595285873474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1264677649991443206.post-16434804001181875462014-02-27T19:53:00.000-08:002014-02-27T19:54:01.996-08:00Thought about stoppingHave you ever wanted to give up or quit? Yup, me too.<br />
I've also said, "I'll try. But if it doesn't work out in 6 months.. I'm out! " <br />
My good friend Claude Hamilton says "what if we tried that attitude with pregnancy?" Five months in, I'm so sick, tired and fat.. I'm done. That baby isn't arriving until they are ready, doesn't matter how you feel about it!<br />
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There is no <i>try</i>, only <i>DO</i>.</h3>
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Setting our feelings and wants aside, there is one question, who is watching? EVERYBODY! I know what you're are saying ... "I don't care what people are thinking". You are right, I don't either. But that isn't what I said. The key word is "watching". If we set a goal or a promise or a committment, they are watching if we will cross that finish line. The cheerleaders AND the critics.<br />
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In my journey today, my kids are watching, especially my girls. Mom set a goal for weight loss and to feel beautiful in that swimsuit. And, to apply for the <a href="http://www.lavieenrose.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/LVER_10052_10001_-1" target="_blank">LA Vie En Rose Aqua Brand Ambassador</a>, at my age and physique. Yes.. I'm up against the 20 something's where their body has not been put through childbearing, five times! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWDd1NtYvh7Q94YZnMWSURM70vJpj_QOLquctsmCFCeGryZyVw5_vS5cCOhkKqWoCPpI3oHO_WM_J8xU0WtqEN4Qh4YgylCVYaDkrucjiT3EjIkXMelzAvYorSZ4EcS29YW_N7TXcMucI/s1600/1723088_478448455610424_769437026_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWDd1NtYvh7Q94YZnMWSURM70vJpj_QOLquctsmCFCeGryZyVw5_vS5cCOhkKqWoCPpI3oHO_WM_J8xU0WtqEN4Qh4YgylCVYaDkrucjiT3EjIkXMelzAvYorSZ4EcS29YW_N7TXcMucI/s1600/1723088_478448455610424_769437026_n.jpg" height="239" width="320" /></a></div>
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What kind of example am I showing my kids if I give up? I'm telling them when it gets hard or feels impossible, to give up. Throw in the towel. We can't give up. We have to keep going. Never quit. We live in an drive thru society and with that comes instant thinking. We don't take the time to think things through. I'm not talking weeks or months, just longer than a moment. It took me a few days to decide if I wanted to take on this challenge. No one forced me. I had to think of the commitments it would take. I'm not ancient but I'm not 20 anymore either. I have the battle scares to prove it! I need to do this for me. I couldn't make the decision flippantly, my kids are watching. Yes they see me fall, but they see me get back up and try again. We are what our parents were. Our kids will be what we are. Our grandchildren will be what our kids are! This goes on for generations. If you don't like what you are or where you are or where your life is going. <b>CHANGE</b>. Your kids are watching.They will do what you do. If you don't have children of your own, I can probably bet you have a neice or nephew or a friends child that is watching you and you may not even realize it. <br />
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<i><b>The difference between the impossible and the possible lies in determination. </b></i>Tommy Lasorda<br />
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Our kids are watching. They need us to show them what it takes to win. We need to be the example of how to succeed in life, marriage and relationships not Hollywood. I want my kid's to look at my husband and I as their Heros, not look up to their favorite sports athlete or superhero. I want the dash between my birth date and my death date... my DASH... to count in my children's life. <br />
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I'm not going to give up! I have made a commitment to myself and my children are watching <b>my</b> struggle turn into <b>my</b> victory.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15897673595285873474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1264677649991443206.post-88850424895741737112014-02-25T10:26:00.003-08:002014-02-25T12:07:57.708-08:00Obstacles...getting in our wayWe overcome obstacles everyday. When we see the word 'obstacle' what do you think of? A mountain? An actual obstacle course? A locked door? A storm?<br />
I think of an obstacle as a hurdle. I am so amazed with the athletic hurdle races. During the Summer Olympics, they jump over the hurdles so fast and with such ease. Some of our personal obstacles might be so small that we leap over like that athlete. Other obstacles can halt us in our tracks. I just envisioned my two year old grandson running up to one of those hurdles...he would stop for a moment, looking over his options and run under it!<br />
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What are some obstacles that we could be facing?<br />
Your surroundings<br />
Fear of failure<br />
Fear of getting your hopes up<br />
Bad habits<br />
Not wanting to change<br />
Emotions<br />
Low self-esteem<br />
Your past<br />
A family member or a friend<br />
Time<br />
Anger<br />
Bitterness<br />
Sadness<br />
Finances<br />
Attitude<br />
Jealousy<br />
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When we allow an obstacle to take control, it can be very overwhelming and frustrating. Worse yet, it is so hard to move forward with all that weight on your back.<br />
From the list above, pick one obstacle that you may be facing today. Or make note of an obstacle that isn't listed. What is the common denominator? YOU; and only YOU can take on that obstacle. There are so many times I want to help my spouse or child with an obstacle in their life. But they have to battle it out! It's a one on one battle. Surround yourself with those that will encourage, uplift and cheer you on, but this battle is yours!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEham5xxo87VfItS4wf_U2ex7xwZ6Kxm7jyqLXQlgzqBdirrd6dQGXL4ZxIYp_-QL6pWepP0HEpW0MyOZoA7g6z9WXJJbwRGThhi1px71O14fpwRxsroPpwjeDg_anQLbUNzBSYE1J3HZAE/s1600/quote___overcoming_obstacles_by_rabidbribri-d62uwci.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEham5xxo87VfItS4wf_U2ex7xwZ6Kxm7jyqLXQlgzqBdirrd6dQGXL4ZxIYp_-QL6pWepP0HEpW0MyOZoA7g6z9WXJJbwRGThhi1px71O14fpwRxsroPpwjeDg_anQLbUNzBSYE1J3HZAE/s1600/quote___overcoming_obstacles_by_rabidbribri-d62uwci.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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I am a visual learner. This picture came to my mind.<br />
Pick up a brick and name it. I don't mean a person's name, we don't want a pet rock to keep or treasure. Write the 'obstacle' on that brick and place it in the backpack and put it on your back. At first, the backpack isn't too heavy. It's bearable. But it certainly weighs more than an empty backpack. If you carry that brick around, everyday, that backpack eventually will feel heavier. Your shoulders start to ache and then your back. Then maybe your legs start to feel that extra weight. One horrible thought! We usually never carry around just ONE brick. We have the potential to carry many bricks at one time. The backpack becomes heavier. Our steps become shorter and sluggish. We hunch over and round our backs to try and even out the weight. If you were trying to run a marathon, who would cross the finish line first? The one that has an empty backpack or full one? I know, not a brilliant question. So why do we walk around trying to run for goals or get to the finish line with a backpack filled with bricks! No wonder we walk around looking so tired and weary!<br />
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Have you ever sat on the edge of your bed at night, too tired to even think about getting into your pjs? Completely exhausted from the day, but felt like you didn't DO anything? I've been there, ALOT! You try and make a mental list of all the things you accomplished and, well, you got dressed that day! <br />
That's my obstacle. My calendar, time. <br />
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As I have mentioned before, I'm a mom of five amazing kids! Meema (grandma) of three of the sweetest and cutest children on this planet! (yes, I'm too young to be a Meema) and a wife to my best friend. I'm busy. I'm working. I'm a taxi. Never mind housework that desperately needs throwing in there! I'm a MOM. And the first step to freedom is admitting the problem or in this case the obstacle. My calendar controls me. It tells me where I need to be and at what time. THEN!<a href="http://thelifeofmeema.blogspot.ca/2014/02/call-me-crazy.html" target="_blank"> Call me crazy</a>! I add on ONE MORE thing to my calendar of things to do. My challenge, to apply to become the <a href="http://www.lavieenrose.com/">Brand Ambassador for La Vie En Rose Aqua.</a> Before I will even submit my application, I have some goals I need to reach. I have to exercise daily, try to eat healthier meals, which needs planning and a focus.<i> I need to get in control of my calendar, not my calendar controlling me.</i> At the end of the day, when my calendar has been my boss, I am frustrated and I should tweet #FAIL because that is how I feel. There were SO many things I needed to do, things I needed to accomplish.<br />
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Well, I found a friend that I KNOW has mastered her time. She has three babies under the age of four and a newborn arriving in August! And she is stress-free, ALL the time. She is in control of her time. She suggested I read a book on time management. Until I have completed that book, so that I can feel like I can 'check' off things, I put everything in my calendar. And I mean everything. Even the time to read my book. Or call someone. If there is a task I want to do, it's in the calendar. I am thrown curve balls. That is life. So, I pull out my phone and look at what I was to do during that time, and see what can be moved to the next day or later. At the end of the day, did I hit everything on that calendar? No. But I was in control. I don't feel defeated because I know I did my best. Have I conquered time management? Not yet, but I'm gaining ground in this battle!<br />
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Getting over an obstacle isn't impossible or hopeless. It takes focus, goal setting and making that goal, dream or finish line <b>LARGER</b> and <b>HIGHER</b> than the obstacle. Then deal with the obstacle. Don't brush it aside or wish it away. It will return because you have given it power to do so. Dig in and learn how you can overcome. <br />
What I have found when dealing with an obstacle, I talked to a friend who had the <i>fruit on the tree</i>. I read books on that topic, knowing the author had nailed it! Last but not least, be positive. Your attitude and words reflect what you are dwelling on. When you take a positive battery and a negative battery and try to put them together, they deflect! Make your positive battery bigger, the negative needs pushing out!<br />
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<b><u>Together, let's conquer these obstacles.</u></b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15897673595285873474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1264677649991443206.post-9117032272812012912014-02-19T19:44:00.000-08:002014-02-19T19:53:53.629-08:00Make that Change!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="http://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/change" target="_blank">Websters Dictionary</a> tells us the definition: t<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px;">he act, process, or result of making different</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 20px;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px;">There is a song that my friend Tara Ferrusi and I sing to the top of our lungs! We love "Man in the Mirror" by the late Michael Jackson. We are not necessarily fans of Michael but the lyrics to this song are amazing. The message is so meaningful!</span><br />
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<span style="border: 0px none; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I won't make you read the whole song - but there are some key phrases or words that I would like to focus on.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="text-align: center;">I'm gonna make a change, f</span><span style="text-align: center;">or once in my life. It's gonna feel real good, gonna make a difference, gonna make it right......<b>I'm starting with the man in the mirror.</b> I'm asking him to change his ways. And no message could have been any clearer; if you wanna make the world a better place, take a look at yourself and then make a change. </span><span style="text-align: center;"><u>Make That Change</u>.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">As I am working through this 'transformation' - I'm making some changes that right now are hard but I know in the end, it will be worth it. So many of us really <b>don't like change</b>. I know I don't like the seasonal change from summer to fall because then I KNOW what's around the corner! If you live in Canada or Northern States you know what I'm talking about! That 4 letter word that we have had enough of already! Some of us don't like moving from our hometown. We are comfortable with our surroundings. I know I have a hard time making changes in my schedule. The night before I go over my schedule, I know what I'm doing the next day, where I'm going, who I need to meet and at what time. But when I get that phonecall. "momma, I need a ride. Can you pick me up?" Or "can you go WAY out of your way to do something. At that moment, my insides hit a<b> panic button</b>. I scramble for my calendar to see how I can fit the change in!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>"To improve is to change. To perfect is to change often." - </i><span style="font-size: x-small;">Winston Churchill</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Why do we resist change so much? Are we too comfortable where we are at? Are we afraid because we don't know what to expect if we take the steps to change? <b>Change is not easy</b> - but if we are willing to sacrifice the 'good', we will gain 'great'. I need to make changes to make a difference in my life. Are you willing to make some changes? In the long run - you will be glad you did!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><i>"Unless you are prepared to give up something valuable you will never be able to truly change at all, because you'll be forever in the control of things you can't give up."</i><span style="font-size: x-small;"> Andy Law Creative Company</span></span><br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15897673595285873474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1264677649991443206.post-30196514124224212042014-02-18T18:33:00.000-08:002014-02-18T18:33:13.352-08:00Perfection?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I came across this <a href="https://www.youtube.com/user/BuzzFeedVideo/videos" target="_blank">Buzzfeed </a>video that was posted to <a href="http://www.facebook.com/" target="_blank">Facebook </a>by <a href="http://www.upworthy.com/" target="_blank">Upworthy </a>and it really made me think about why it is I am dieting, exercising and blogging. I mean, if you go back to my <a href="http://thelifeofmeema.blogspot.ca/2014/02/call-me-crazy.html" target="_blank">original post</a> you'll see that I have set a goal to become a brand ambassador for<a href="http://www.lavieenrose.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Catalog?catalogId=10001&storeId=10052&langId=-1&identifier=SWIM14S" target="_blank"> La Vie En Rose Aqua</a>, but, why?<br />
Why am I trying to lose weight? Is it because I don't look like the gorgeous swimwear models in the ads? Or is it because I know I don't feel like I am the best me I can be?<br />
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I think with all the various media images bombarding our senses every day, it is easy to have an unrealistic view of beauty. The last thing I want to do with this blog - and with my personal challenge - is to play into a warped sense of reality by striving for an unattainable picture of perfection. Rather, my goal <i style="text-decoration: underline;">is</i> to become better today than I was yesterday. To achieve my personal best; body, mind and spirit.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15897673595285873474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1264677649991443206.post-13836074179560985372014-02-16T08:46:00.004-08:002014-02-16T08:49:08.090-08:00Love<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM8KCZvmkKqHVwtuIA27cKkjsOgWIrdfHXDdiIMOuv2B95wQaRbgHheaSFCsXWmP62tKQkuftDUbCWQyXv_ffyC8Z4gjJEn9tGrNDINZLIl4MarcRCi6WhNqBtrEVYyc6aGVTIGgP6QcY/s1600/happy+valentine+meema.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjM8KCZvmkKqHVwtuIA27cKkjsOgWIrdfHXDdiIMOuv2B95wQaRbgHheaSFCsXWmP62tKQkuftDUbCWQyXv_ffyC8Z4gjJEn9tGrNDINZLIl4MarcRCi6WhNqBtrEVYyc6aGVTIGgP6QcY/s1600/happy+valentine+meema.jpg" height="150" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit;">What is <span style="color: #660000;">Love</span>? <span style="color: #660000;">Love</span> is many things to all of us. For some, it's a hug from a loved one, a child's laughter, the smell of freshly baked cookies. For some it's getting an encouraging word from a friend, a flower, or chocolate. I </span><span style="color: #660000;">Love</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> receiving gifts. I walked in Friday from errands and my grandson shoves his Valentine artwork into my hands..."Here Meema, I lum you! Happy Valemtimes Day!"</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">From my hubby! My ultimate favourite is TIME. Just being with him. No cost in spending time. I feel most </span><span style="color: #660000;">Loved</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> when he's around me. And his hugs from the squeezes to the gentle ones. And yes, I do </span><span style="color: #660000;">Love</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> the flowers. My flowers change from time to time but when I see the faitful rose, I get all warm inside. My eyes light up when I see a box or bag from</span><a href="http://www.lavieenrose.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/LVER_10052_10001_-1" style="font-family: inherit;" target="_blank"> La Vie En Rose</a><span style="font-family: inherit;">! I KNOW it's something I will </span><span style="color: #660000;">Love</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><br /></span><span style="color: #660000;">Love</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> is all around us if we just look. I like to people watch. Some things I wish I didn't see. A mother yelling at her child when a firm tone would suffice. A couple arguing. A child crying. I </span><span style="color: #660000;">Love</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> to see a child holding a loving adults hand. Two little ones skipping down the walkway. A couple - almost touching forheads speaking softly so no one hears. My grandson wanting up so he can put his arms around my neck and nuzzle in.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Have we have lowered the meaning of the word </span><span style="color: #660000;">LOVE</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #cc0000;"> </span>? I love hotdogs. I love her hair. I love that car. I love that outfit. Websters Dictionary explains </span><span style="color: #660000;">Love</span><span style="font-family: inherit;"> to be..."</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px;"><a href="http://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/love" target="_blank">strong affection for another arising out of kinship or personal ties</a>" That is what true </span><span style="color: #660000;">Love</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 20px;"> is all about.</span><br />
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It's so apropriate that Valentines Day is the same weekend with Family Day. I hope you are doing what I'm doing, spending time and <span style="color: #660000;">Loving</span> my family.<br />
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Make sure you take time to <span style="color: #660000;"><i><u>l<span style="text-align: start;">ove</span></u></i></span><b><i><u> yourself</u></i></b>.</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15897673595285873474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1264677649991443206.post-24140773671904630842014-02-13T18:00:00.001-08:002014-02-13T18:01:08.849-08:00Looking good....on the inside<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 25.600000381469727px;">Each new day as I walk through this <a href="http://thelifeofmeema.blogspot.ca/2014/02/call-me-crazy.html" target="_blank">journey</a>, I come across women - like you and me - trying to figure out the 'why' and 'how' to get motivated to do what we all know we need to do. So many women around me, all trying so hard to 'fix' the problem areas - on the outside. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 25.600000381469727px;">I just had a GREAT conversation with my best friend </span><a href="https://twitter.com/kimberleyrmac" style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 25.600000381469727px;" target="_blank">Kim MacLaren</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 25.600000381469727px;">. She is my bundle of inspiration and in EVERY conversation, she is encouraging</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 25.600000381469727px;">. I LOVE talking to her. I love being with her. She is my confidant, my </span><u style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 25.600000381469727px;">BFF,</u><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 25.600000381469727px;"> as the kids say. When we are together...look out world!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfv32coIBB0v-NbU8-_7Pv9sVbBrT39vPQy_DJiQ8dZCT9F7Pvm2PfOR8UtMmiY5J4sMGh8uUV9Az0HtCAofL0Gn9aTAkLCuhpatTOAt6YmrNK8LDMHgjQNVij6QiTILrzkDGikEDzALs/s1600/Sherri+&+Kim.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfv32coIBB0v-NbU8-_7Pv9sVbBrT39vPQy_DJiQ8dZCT9F7Pvm2PfOR8UtMmiY5J4sMGh8uUV9Az0HtCAofL0Gn9aTAkLCuhpatTOAt6YmrNK8LDMHgjQNVij6QiTILrzkDGikEDzALs/s1600/Sherri+&+Kim.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 25.600000381469727px;"></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We have fun. Our parents take a deep breath when they know we are together! We laugh, we hug, we have quiet times, we celebrate, we have times of sadness. We just love spending time together. </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">We got talking about this 'challenge' and during the course of our conversation, she commented that the last week or so, a consistant theme from so many women was, "we are trying to make a change, trying to make healthier choices trying the latest diet or the latest exercise. Maybe this will work this time."</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 25.600000381469727px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">My thoughts? It is important to put at least some effort into being healty and fit. However, we can work all we want to look GREAT on the outside but we need to take a breath and ask ourselves, "<b>WHO</b> are we doing this for?" Whatever we do, we need to do it for us. Not for 'them' but for 'us'. We need to find that '<i>why</i>' - that incredibly personal piece of inspiration that will motivate us! </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Taking this one step deeper, we can do whatever it takes to look good outside but how are we on the inside? I'm not just talking about eating healthy, but are we 'fit' inside - our whole being. Mentally, Emotionally and Physically. </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">Let me throw this out there and try to expl</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">ain </span><span style="background-color: transparent; font-family: inherit;">what I mean. I saw a post today and it rang loud and clear in my ears..</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvFXG_RcaBKfB_akz68bK-txEFMTu1eGL33ooHn8q4X8CHKDnn3v6dM3RTmGk4f_ijT2jf1B3vy7Um1xkOvk1v111IH3aHBc_52Xw85cro9oBjLachzu8p9PHVyxn7IgeI8R0Fo12Ahzc/s1600/be+careful.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvFXG_RcaBKfB_akz68bK-txEFMTu1eGL33ooHn8q4X8CHKDnn3v6dM3RTmGk4f_ijT2jf1B3vy7Um1xkOvk1v111IH3aHBc_52Xw85cro9oBjLachzu8p9PHVyxn7IgeI8R0Fo12Ahzc/s1600/be+careful.jpg" height="320" width="293" /></span></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 25.600000381469727px; text-align: center;">We need to be so careful what we say to others; in fun, in jest, in anger, in bitterness, in jealousy, in the spur of the moment, etc. Our words can cut so deeply that apologizing sometimes just feels like a band aid. the wound may eventually heal, but the scar tissue is deep.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 25.600000381469727px; text-align: center;">Let me talk for a moment how it can effect the one on the</span><i style="line-height: 25.600000381469727px; text-align: center;"> receiving end</i><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 25.600000381469727px; text-align: center;"> of those negative words. We can carry hurtful words with us for years. It can affect our whole world. It can affect our relationships. It can affect how we treat our kids, parents, friends, spouse. It can affect our attitude throughout our entire life. It can affect our perspective. IF we let it. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 25.600000381469727px; text-align: center;">We need to do whatever it takes to get rid of the baggage we drag behind us. Talk to someone. Find a BFF to connect with. Fill your mind with positive, encouraging books, blogs, or cds. I remember hearing as a kid, garbage in - garbage out. The opposite is also true, positive in - positive out. </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 25.600000381469727px;">What really matters is living a life that</span><em style="background-color: white; line-height: 25.600000381469727px;"> is</em><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 25.600000381469727px;"> good on the inside — </span></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; font-weight: bold; line-height: 25.600000381469727px;">not one that just </span><em style="background-color: white; font-weight: bold; line-height: 25.600000381469727px;">looks</em><span style="background-color: white; font-weight: bold; line-height: 25.600000381469727px;"> good from the </span><em style="background-color: white; line-height: 25.600000381469727px;"><b>outside. </b><a href="http://www.aholyexperience.com/" target="_blank">Ann Voskamp</a></em></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 25.600000381469727px;">I want to flip the coin on this one and spend a few moments on "<u>How we speak to ourselves."</u> We carry our own words forever. Those words replay in our minds all day and all night.You want to talk about the wounds still being there at 10 years? More like forever! </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 25.600000381469727px;">If you said to your friend what you contiually tell yourself, most likely they would punch you in the mouth! So why do we allow ourselves to say these negative things? Why do we beat ourselves up? Our lives are surrounded by negative all day; at work, co-workers, the radio, the news, television, books, movies and magazines! </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 25.600000381469727px;">Not long ago, I sat in the middle of the mall for just a few moments, people watching. WOW! The SCOWLS on faces could scare ya! Negativity and sadness was everywhere! Please don't throw yourself onto that pile! </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 25.600000381469727px;">Our words have power. I honestly believe what we say, WILL happen. If you tell yourself you are sick long enough, you will become sick! If we tell ourselves we are failures, that we can't do anything right, you are most likely prophesying your future as those words will resound in our hearts and minds forever.</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBHMLlfNHVkM6EFuH5x5Mf0Z4vnSpecAlWE_d8qWouRiBCw33vHImCgj0BHeuWZgIgzc5lNnAJ9gwP4bcqVhE8tL3b_cin8NCuZWjsImMNR6iqLbS2a9ZSwKGxGd06y6SVP1fgVajuIUQ/s1600/positive+thinking.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBHMLlfNHVkM6EFuH5x5Mf0Z4vnSpecAlWE_d8qWouRiBCw33vHImCgj0BHeuWZgIgzc5lNnAJ9gwP4bcqVhE8tL3b_cin8NCuZWjsImMNR6iqLbS2a9ZSwKGxGd06y6SVP1fgVajuIUQ/s1600/positive+thinking.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></a><span style="font-family: inherit;">They say you form a habit in 21days (3 weeks). On this journey that I am on I can think<span style="background-color: white;"> of many th</span>ings I </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">can be negative about! Remember that word - workout? YUP! Not crazy about workouts.Or staying away from carbs, sweets, chips! BUT I can make a change in 21 days!</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">For the next 3 weeks, let's pause before we say something negative, and spin it for something positive.</span>Wake up in the morning, look in the mirror and say, <b>Hey Gorgeous! You are going to have a great day</b>!<span style="font-family: inherit;"> </span> Let's get rid of things that negativity in our lives.<span style="font-family: inherit;"> No negative talk and for the rest of your day let's stay positive. We will be thrown every curve ball know to man-kin</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit;">d! It will be to</span><span style="font-family: inherit;">ugh! But today is the day! We start today!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">For every <b>Goal/Dream</b>, there is a <b>Struggle</b> which leads to <b>Victory</b>. After 21 days, a habit will be formed. Filling our minds and hearts with positive, the negative HAS to go - there is only so much room in there!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;">I have heard through the grapevine that others have tried to comment on the blog posts and are having trouble. I'm not getting those comments! So please - email me than I'm sure to get it. </span><a href="mailto:sherri.prankard@gmail.com">sherri.prankard@gmail.com</a><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"> I would love to hear your stories and thoughts, success stories and what has worked for you! Or tell me about a friend that has encouraged you, inspired you. Brag about them! Share with me a story that you think may help others and I can include it in the blog.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 15.359999656677246px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I don't want to bore you with "this is what I did at 830am - then 834am and 9am...". You know what I have committed to do along my journey. I want to use this time rather, to share the deeper thoughts and emotions that this challenge is invoking in hopes that perhaps maybe, I might be able to (in some small way) inspire, encourage and help you as you observe me, To understand that no matter our age, size, shape, colour, background, or past, we are strong and we can do what we set our minds to do.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 15.359999656677246px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">I received a Facebook message from a friend who moved away a long time ago - I'm trying to think back to the last time I saw her. It was probably 20+ years for sure! We have connected over social media the last few years and have enjoyed catching up! I was encouraged to receive this timely note</span></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7zWHZ_PwFWsevitqSifsCFrlJIooCbtaJhg5mdFGiUHlOvQHJDUHP1-4oP6vNFKRF_d5UvVvzHpJgDfsJ82xZ7XGiyU63A2qQsfLGzdo7hyphenhyphenVKqgyiMvnBondEKJHqiIK74n6dWr2p_DM/s1600/scale.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi7zWHZ_PwFWsevitqSifsCFrlJIooCbtaJhg5mdFGiUHlOvQHJDUHP1-4oP6vNFKRF_d5UvVvzHpJgDfsJ82xZ7XGiyU63A2qQsfLGzdo7hyphenhyphenVKqgyiMvnBondEKJHqiIK74n6dWr2p_DM/s1600/scale.jpg" height="200" width="200" /></span></a><span style="background-color: #fff2cc; font-family: inherit;"><span style="color: #073763; line-height: 15.359999656677246px; white-space: pre-wrap;">When I read your words, they resonated huge. Seeing it like that, in writing, made me take a moment to again acknowledge my goals etc. But honestly though, it also made me think how much more we are than our weight, our clothes size, etc. How very hard we are on ourselves. We are strong women, with families, friends, lives to be proud of. We are represented by much more than the number on the scale! I'm right there with you, wanting to be a healthier self, but I think it's important to balance it out. When I ran yesterday and thought I was going to die, I told myself</span><b style="color: #073763; line-height: 15.359999656677246px; white-space: pre-wrap;"> 'you are strong, you are healthier for this, you can do it, this body has grown 3 humans, I'm strong</b><span style="color: #073763; line-height: 15.359999656677246px; white-space: pre-wrap;">' Anyways! Thanks for your words - your honesty - and your inspiration. I will be following along.</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.359999656677246px; text-align: center; white-space: pre-wrap;">I can't tell you how much her comments, along with the others I've received, mean to me. Thank you for letting me know that we are in this thing together.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 15.359999656677246px; white-space: pre-wrap;">I've been thinking of Marilyn Monroe since they other day at <a href="http://www.lavieenrose.com/" target="_blank">La Vie En Rose</a> where the girl assisting me (Emily) commented that<a href="http://www.lavieenrose.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductURL1_10052_10001_-1_5001_5_5001002_OnePiece_504212_MansfieldOnePieceSwimsuit_ProductDisplayErrorView_" target="_blank"> my new Aqua swimsuit</a> was "Marilyn Monroe classy", </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 15.359999656677246px; white-space: pre-wrap;">I have had an interest in her life for a long time.Maybe it was the old Elton John song, "Candle In The Wind" that peaked my interest. I don't really recall.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 15.359999656677246px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Over the years </span></span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 15.359999656677246px; white-space: pre-wrap;">I have read </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.359999656677246px; white-space: pre-wrap;">a few books and memoirs about her and always thought Marilyn was beautiful (I still do - I have always wanted Marilyn Monroe hair - style and colour!). I was intrigued by her life and how she bounced around from man to man. Almost like she was looking for something. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.359999656677246px; white-space: pre-wrap;">As it turned out, she had a very rough life growing up as a child, Even into her adult years, although she 'looked' happy, happiness seemed to elude her. </span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgonaTgw4y1tGbN0WDxEEvpyWNOS29-EVdvynd8hvo_JW9uxLOCBfvwlhQ4Q3V5mHcN0O5sP1y3jgXD4Yi9YvhgihUsAWe7cQpjUN-d2rlCqUYdLmr4EblMHTC-50-yyA3MMK2p28MQmwk/s1600/marilynmonroe+pic.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgonaTgw4y1tGbN0WDxEEvpyWNOS29-EVdvynd8hvo_JW9uxLOCBfvwlhQ4Q3V5mHcN0O5sP1y3jgXD4Yi9YvhgihUsAWe7cQpjUN-d2rlCqUYdLmr4EblMHTC-50-yyA3MMK2p28MQmwk/s1600/marilynmonroe+pic.jpeg" height="200" width="157" /></a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.359999656677246px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Marilyn tried <u>SO HARD to fit in</u>, to be loved by the right man (which always was the wrong one). Marilyn was a robot - doing exactly what she was told to do, say and be. Tragically, her short life ended at 36 years of age "like a candle in the wind". </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.359999656677246px; white-space: pre-wrap;">If you Google pictures of Marilyn Monroe, you'll notice as I did, that she wasn't necessarily the modern swimsuit model we see in magaizines today. She fluctuated from a size 6 all the way to 16 (at her heaviest). She was approximately 5' 5" tall and at her heaviest weighed 140 pounds. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.359999656677246px; white-space: pre-wrap;">The photo </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.359999656677246px; white-space: pre-wrap;">I am posting was taken at her heaviest. Now, I don't know about you, but in my opinion, Marilyn Monroe at 140 pounds radiated beauty. </span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.359999656677246px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Yes she still looked amazing, beautiful and sexy!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.359999656677246px; white-space: pre-wrap;">I can't tell you why, as beautiful as she was, Marilyn Monroe was unhappy. I can tell you however, that w</span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.359999656677246px; white-space: pre-wrap;">e, as beautiful women have to STOP allowing media/hollywood dictating what beauty is. Many of the Hollywood "a-list" have money to make their hips shrink and their boobs grow. They have the time and money to hire private personal trainers and workout hours on end if they wish.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: inherit; line-height: 15.359999656677246px; white-space: pre-wrap;"> I'm talking about me..you..the rest of us! This is about about you and I and our personal and individual journies. It is about who we are trying to become, and to me, that is beautiful.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">I will end with the words written by Nike:</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Droid Serif', serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.979999542236328px; text-align: left;"><i>“A woman is often measured by the things she cannot control. She is measured by the way her body curves or doesn’t curve. By where she is flat or straight or round. She is measured by 36-24-36 and inches and ages and numbers. By all the outside things that don’t ever add up to who she is on the inside. And so if a woman is to be measured, let her be measured by the things she can control, by who she is and who she is trying to become because as every woman knows, measurements are only statistics, and statistics lie.”</i></span><span style="font-family: inherit; text-align: left;"><i> </i> </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">If I don't know what my goals are or how I'm going to get there - how can I achieve that goal? How can I stay accountable to my word. Speaking my goals into existance, putting them in black and white will help me to strive and achieve them. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I want you to know that for this next month - I have committed to swear off sweets, sugar, `bad`carbs AND drink lots of water, make healthier choices and oh yeah; workout. Right - there is that `word'..I am so DREADING the workout. However, if I want to succeed, I need to eat healthier and exercise.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>My goal?</b> In one months time, to look good in THE swimsuit I just purchased! AND to become the <a href="http://site.en.louloumagazine.com/LVERaqua/" target="_blank">Brand Ambassador for La Vie En Rose Aqua</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">The list above is to remind me what I promised to do and what I won't do to achieve my goal. In our house, my husband reminds the children over and over, there is no try - only do. Is this going to be hard? Absolutely! The only thing, at this time, I won't give up my coffee. I have an addiction. There - I said it! Yes, I'm addicted to coffee. I only need one a day, not one pot a day - like some people I know, who will remain nameless. However, if I don't have a coffee 20 minutes from opening my eyes in the morning...let's just say 'it aint pretty'! Along with it comes the migraines. Right now, I think I will be putting my body into enough shock that taking away coffee would send me over the edge. Lets take care of one issue at a time! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Not to long ago I <u>was</u> a fitness trainer. I <u>was</u> in good shape. Working out all the time - helping clients/members achieve their goals. I wasn't 'muscle' bound or 'defined' but I was strong, lean, healthy and fit. I was happy about how I looked. Over the last 2 years, jobs change, time runs away, get busy running after all my kids and grandkids, playing taxi! This doesn't include my dreams or desires or even time with my hubby! Now I'm, well - remember this is about ME. I'm not pointing fingers (refer to "Call Me Crazy" blog post number one). But <u>I feel</u> a tad overweight.<u> I can't wear</u> most of the clothes in my closet. I'm not the <u>best that I can be</u>. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">I have been 'active-ish' over the last few years, I certainly don't sit on the couch and eat bonbons everyday. I did train for a half marathon 2 years ago, due to travelling with my son, I missed that marathon. All that to say - I <u>need</u> to preach to the choir! (not you but to ME) I know the do's and don'ts. I know what works and what doesn't work for me. And as for my weaknesses? chocolate, chips and dip! Oh no! I said it! Guess what I'm craving! Can someone pass the celery please? Maybe I can trick my brain..these <u>are</u> chips.. I know it's green and watery tasting, not at all the likness of chips. Oh who am I foolin! Good thing the chips didn't make it into the grocery cart yesterday! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Just before Christmas I was feeling sluggish and not happy in my clothes. I wanted to get into shape. Feel healthier. Feel sexy in my own skin. I had picked up a Jillian Michaels 30 day Shred and I was going to workout every day. Great intentions but no activity. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">Two weeks ago I popped that dvd in and started, determined to workout every day. Let's just say Jillian kicked my rearend all the way to the procelin throne. It was horrible. I felt horrible. I was dizzy, weak kneed, nauseated, queasy, wobbly, oh it was NOT good. My poor dad called me in the middle of the ordeal and I had the poor guy worried - threatening to take me to emerge! He thought I was having a heart attack! Hindsight is always 20/20 - I think I had a mild asthma attack. I have asthma but not until recent years so it never affected my workouts in the past! I crawled over to my couch and slept for 2.5hours waking up groggy and vowing NEVER to workout again. I rationalized and told myself that I could do a little workout here and there and get by. That I only needed a few pounds to take off and maybe if I just take away the chips and pop, I would be fine. NEVER again was I going to try that workout. I was really feeling defeated. I felt and looked terrible! Not long ago I was fit, I was toned..what happened?! Ah yes - I'm over 40 years of age and my metabolism has grinded to a halt. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><b>The perfect storm formed. The journey began. </b></span></div>
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<b style="font-family: inherit;">On Sunday, I convinced myself to give it ONE MORE TRY. </b></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"> I headed up the stairs to my bedroom - running shoes on - water in my hand ready to work out! <b><u>I did it</u>! </b>I finished the workout. And two days in a row! When I felt like I was going down for the count - I slowed down - took it at a 1/4 of the speed.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: inherit;">Did I feel sore and winded - you bet - but I did it! I'm on the road of my new journey! I have finished the workout - 2 days in a row - here goes my third!</span><br />
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<b><i><span style="font-family: inherit;">"What you can become depends on what you can overcome." </span></i></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: inherit;">Anthony Douglas Williams</span></b></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15897673595285873474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1264677649991443206.post-45470091369483298982014-02-10T09:48:00.000-08:002014-02-10T09:49:56.819-08:00Can You Sell Swimwear & Lingerie AND Change the World?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRJ9NGN1oZxiV8j9nXpWBArysKeCEFA6VfWx4WPgetQmQnDeRuEynlLMFsK7ipobfk8PlM2CQIb84_CeVfzrHC5JX6RIpgTZ7xJAekZf5DUDkgEPk7qtRIQwjaaNvjPLRCfZwtk0DlcbE/s1600/LaVieEnRose1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRJ9NGN1oZxiV8j9nXpWBArysKeCEFA6VfWx4WPgetQmQnDeRuEynlLMFsK7ipobfk8PlM2CQIb84_CeVfzrHC5JX6RIpgTZ7xJAekZf5DUDkgEPk7qtRIQwjaaNvjPLRCfZwtk0DlcbE/s1600/LaVieEnRose1.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I've always believed that true change cannot be obtained alone. We are interdependent. It is with this thought in mind that I know I am going to need the help and support of you, my friends, as well as the friends I am about to meet on my journey. Yesterday, I met Emily.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I woke up feeling excited - anxious - apprehensive. O</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">k, I was a nervous wreck! What have I signed up for? I'm already a busy mom/meema.<i> How could I possibly add MORE to my plate?</i> I've been told many times that if you want something bad enough, you will find the time/money to accomplish your goal. I will find time to make this happen. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It was a busy day - setting up the blog - lining up the ducks and then launching this journey! After lunch I donned on my workout clothes and runners - ready to (gulp) workout with </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Jillian Michaels! (</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://twitter.com/JillianMichaels" target="_blank">@</a></span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://twitter.com/JillianMichaels" target="_blank">JillianMichaels</a>) I found excuse after excuse for a half an hour to try and 'waste' time. I'll go into the reason WHY in a future post. . </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My husband turned to me and says - "ummmm...shouldn't you go pick out a swimsuit BEFORE you get all sweaty?" RIGHT! I kicked off the runners and put on my boots. (another diversion to not working out) We headed out the door towards the outlet mall here in Niagara to pick out THE SWIMSUIT to represent the challenge (<a href="http://www.lavieenrose.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Catalog?catalogId=10001&storeId=10052&langId=-1&identifier=SWIM14S" target="_blank">#LVERaquaContes</a>t).<a href="http://www.lavieenrose.com/" target="_blank"> La Vie En Rose</a>. (<a href="https://twitter.com/_La_Vie_en_Rose" target="_blank">@_la_vie_en_rose</a>) I really like their clothing line.. the lingerie AND the comfy pjs, </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">the undergarments and the swimwear! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">That is where I met Emily, the sales associate. We chatted for a few moments - what I was looking for, what was my style, did I prefer pattern or solid colours? TOO many choices! I ended up with quite a few pieces of swimwear in the dressing room and one was a bikini! Emily stayed close. I thanked her and warned my hubby to stay VERY close as his wife would NOT be coming out tooooo far. I tried on the bikini as she suggested...didn't look bad. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I explained to her the journey I was embarking on and that the swimsuit I chose would be a key to my success. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Emily is the first person (outside of my four walls) who really seemed to '<i>get it</i>' when I shared my thinking behind this challenge. She agreed that as women age, there are some that still want to dress like they haven't. For many of us though, if we can figure out "our style", we can radiate the same confidence and (may I say) sexiness that we did in our twenties without having to dress provocatively or suggestive. Does that make sense? </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Let me put it bluntly. There are some 40-somethings that should not wear an itsy-bitsy-teeny-weenie-polka-dot-bikini. I happen to be one.<br /><br />Now, I did try on a <a href="http://www.lavieenrose.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/ProductURL1_10052_10001_-1_5006_5_5001001305_Newarrivals_504247_SolidMixandMatchBandeauTop_ProductDisplayErrorView_" target="_blank">two-piece bikini</a>. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was VERY nervous pulling back that curtain - revealing myself to my husband AND Emily - me - in a bikini! I was extremely self conscious! But she put me right at ease with her sincerity. The fact that she took an interest and understood my mindset in entering this challenge was incredibly reassuring.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>"A girl should be 2 things; classy and fabulous"</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Coco Chanel</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">More than just Emily's obvious sense of fashion and amazing customer service; she understood this challenge on a deeper level. While I was changing, we continued our conversation. Our chat came around to her own feelings of self-consciousness in a two-piece. She, in fact, had hers on the night before, doing the <a href="http://www.torontosun.com/2014/02/06/filming-stunts-in-the-snow---in-just-your-underwear---the-latest-online-fad" target="_blank">24 hour challenge.</a> Have you heard of this?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"Nominees" have to preform some sort of stunt in the snow wearing only their underwear or swimsuits. Once completed, they post the video on line and nominate others to do the same. The thing that compelled Emily to perform her own 24-hour challenge was the benefit to a friend of hers battling lime disease. For every challenge completed, funds will be donated to help<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/226228057501164" target="_blank"> Matt Risi fight this disease</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I was so impressed with this young woman who understood the importance of interconnectedness and doing good where and when we can. Our own family's philosophy has always been "See a need; meet a need" - and what a priveledge to meet others like Emily who share in that sense of duty. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>"Be the change you want to see in the world" Ghandi </b></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI8bYUVX7vuSXeGu6P_awxx95_bCkjA4KgxancfXEtASPnhXiYyrt6ZG15bacBCAREmaNRWX2YJL-_pq1SE8siWDq3iJxocep_1e6y353SeeACkSY6ahyphenhyphenvoJbwAqM6w_4GRoyyZCvsURM/s1600/my_suit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjI8bYUVX7vuSXeGu6P_awxx95_bCkjA4KgxancfXEtASPnhXiYyrt6ZG15bacBCAREmaNRWX2YJL-_pq1SE8siWDq3iJxocep_1e6y353SeeACkSY6ahyphenhyphenvoJbwAqM6w_4GRoyyZCvsURM/s1600/my_suit.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I tried on a few more pieces and suddenly - I found THE ONE! Yup - this was perfect! It was exactly what I was looking for. Emily agreed. The look is classic - "Marilyn Monroe Classic" as she called it.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I felt kinda silly - I mean it took 3 of us to find <b>THE ONE</b>. But - this swimsuit was extremely important. This swimsuit represents `beginning with the end in mind`. <u>This swimsuit will represent my transformation.</u></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I headed home with this special bag - this item of clothing was going to change how I would look at myself for a long time. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I don't want this to be a `resolution`. Resolutions come and go, EVERY year! This will be a lifestyle change. This is my transformation </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">.</span><br />
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<b style="line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small;"><i>Change is hardest at the beginning, messiest in the middle and best at the end.</i></span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thank you Emily (<a href="https://twitter.com/emmmilyd" target="_blank">@emmmilyd</a>) whether you like it or not - you are now a part of my journey. I am glad I met you today.</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15897673595285873474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1264677649991443206.post-5585652512764240192014-02-09T07:05:00.000-08:002014-02-09T07:05:27.698-08:00Call Me CrazyBefore I explain what it is I'm doing, let me take a moment to explain my thinking behind what it is I'm doing.<br />
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Remember the movie, <a href="http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0177971/" target="_blank">The Perfect Storm</a>, and how three major weather events converged at the same place, at the same time to create what meteorologists labeled "the perfect storm"? Well, I had one of those happen in my life this past week (metaphorically speaking of course). Here's what happened:<br />
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<b>Storm #1</b>:<br />
I am a grandmother of three beautiful children who call me "Meema". I love the name and I love each of them so much it hurts; but that's not really my point here. My "storm" is that I am a grandmother! I am aging and there is really nothing I can do to stop that fact, however, I can do something about how I look and feel - and lately that has been something I have been neglecting.<br />
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My husband loves me and says only amazingly flattering things about me and my appearance. The truth of the matter is however, I am - and feel - completely out of shape. "Beauty is skin deep" they say (who are they?), but I know better. Beauty comes from deep within. It's an inside job, and for me personally, I know I am not at my best, and that makes me feel less "beautiful".<br />
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Please understand this is <b><u>my</u> </b>journey, and these are <b><u>my</u> </b>feelings. Some of my best friends are "bigger girls" who are absolutely gorgeous inside and out. I am not talking about them, nor do I have anything other than love for them. This is about <u><b>me</b></u>.<br />
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<b>Storm #2</b><br />
My across-the-street neighbor, has a new-years resolution to lose some weight. To keep herself accountable, she tries on her bathing suit everyday and looks in the mirror. The result is always an immediate trip to her gym, completely motivated to work hard. #Brilliant<br />
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<b>Storm #3</b><br />
I don't buy a lot of lingerie, but when I do, it is always at <a href="http://www.lavieenrose.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/LVER_10052_10001_-1" target="_blank">La Vie En Rose</a>. I have always found their store to be classy (as opposed to trashy, like many of the other shops here in the honeymoon capital). Because I do shop there, I subscribe to their emails notifying me of sales and special events. This week's email caught my attention only because it arrived at just the right moment, at just the right place in my life right now. It was my perfect storm.<br />
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The ad showed a beautiful "20-something" woman modeling a two-piece bikini, advertising for a brand ambassador for their <a href="http://www.lavieenrose.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Catalog?catalogId=10001&storeId=10052&langId=-1&identifier=SWIM14S" target="_blank">Aqua </a>swimwear line. <span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"></span><br />
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<a href="http://www.lavieenrose.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Catalog?catalogId=10001&storeId=10052&langId=-1&identifier=SWIM14S" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuWLxMwf8GwLZRcJcSEug8rXC_4Qqf1o6an_Pq6DzF4j6VBoYnMA58mYuwFT3h7O2U0h7DrPeWtz9pE5DhmSDveIPdkXT018bOjCU3uEPD7VCuVR76vsIHBVpn39Mf1gmCRSDB3APp1sk/s1600/LVERaquaContest.jpg" height="320" width="310" /></a></div>
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<b>Ok - this is the part you call me crazy.</b><br />
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Typically swimwear models are, like I said, gorgeous, 20-somethings without a single ounce of fat on them. Me: not so much.<br />
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I just celebrated my 46th birthday. I am easily 30 pounds over my wedding day weight. I in no way fit the profile of a swimwear brand ambassador and I am not who they are looking for.<br />
I also know that La Vie En Rose does not know that I am not who they are looking for. (wink)<br />
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The application process closes on March 9th.<br />
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I have some work to do.<br />
I am purchasing an Aqua swimsuit this weekend (still deciding on <a href="http://www.lavieenrose.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Category8_10052_10001_-1_5001_5_5001002_Type_SWIMWEAR_image_0_OnePiece_-1_" target="_blank">one </a>or <a href="http://www.lavieenrose.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Category8_10052_10001_-1_5002_5_5002006_Tops_SWIMWEAR_image_0_Tankini_-1_" target="_blank">two-piece</a>... what do you think?)<br />
I will, like my neighbor, try it on everyday.<br />
I will post my before and after pictures here on this blog on March 9th as I submit my application. (no way I'm posting them now!)<br />
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I invite you to be a part of my journey. I need your encouragement, love and support.<br />
Whether or not I am chosen as the brand ambassador for Aqua, I intend to work hard towards that goal every single day.<br />
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So, what do you think? Crazy right?<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15897673595285873474noreply@blogger.com0