Archive for December, 2009
New Year, new you! How many times have we heard that cheesy line? Well, even though it’s over done and over-simplified, it does carry a bit of weight. After all, the new year is the perfect time to create a clean slate…to evaluate where you’ve been and where you want to be going. There is a reason the term RESOLUTION came to be and why the media over exemplifies it this time of year.
But instead of thinking about all the things you want to CHANGE — why not be thankful for all the great times you had in 2009? And yes, then we can set some goals and milestones we hope to reach in 2010.
I’ll go first.
This year, I was thankful for…
Starting the blog! (my first post!)
My trips to Cincinnati, Toronto, NYC and Chicago with the Mister.
The fact that I made it through my San Fran business trip alive.
For having the opportunity to give back, via Race for the Cure.
For becoming “real” friends with some of you – so thankful for my blogger meet up and becoming so close with VeggieGirl.
The fact that after being with the Mister since high school, he still gives me butterflies.
Being asked to write for Yahoo! Shine on a continual basis.
Becoming quite skilled in the kitchen, and not being afraid to try new things.
Goals for 2010
I already shared my fitness goals, but what about the “life” stuff?
1.) Attend a blogger event – most likely BlogHer
2.) Take ballroom dance classes with the Mister (step one: convince him this is a good idea)
3.) Take another cooking class with the Mister
4.) Make some progress with my *special project*
5.) Meet more of you in person!
6.) Re-commit myself to the blog and do what I can to make it the best “stop” on these crazy Internet roads 
7.) Always re-evaluate and think of new ways to be the best wife, daughter and friend I can be.
What about you, what were you thankful for in 2009 and what goals are you hoping to accomplish in 2010?
The making of a perfect, incredibly easy meal (serves one):
- 1 al fresco chicken sausage (I’d go with Sweet Italian, Garlic, Sundried Tomato or Roasted Red Pepper for this recipe)
- 1 cup of fresh mushrooms
- 1/2 cup of your favorite pasta sauce
- Serving of pasta — I used Gia Russa Spinach Pasta
- 1/4 cup grated cheese
Saute with mushrooms and add sausage until browned. Add pasta sauce and heat through. Pour on top of cooked pasta. Sprinkle with CHEESE! EAT!
Such an easy, flavorful recipe — perfect for a night where you don’t feel like cooking!
What dish do you whip up when you don’t feel like “going all out?”
In the news:
Spend all day at a desk? Five Exercises Can Reduce Neck, Shoulder Pain of Women Office Workers
Did you eat too many Christmas cookies? The UK Government is urging families to walk it off.
Looking to join a gym in 2010? Make sure you get the best deal.
Have a perfect six pack? Trying to get one? Maintaining it may become the real struggle.
Women’s Health Magazine thinks they have the Ultimate Fitness Workout for 2010 – give it a try!
Did you find any articles interesting that you’d like to share?
And now… resolutions — that is such a nasty word isn’t it? I prefer GOALS.
My fitness goals for 2010:
1. Make use of my NEW BIKE! Ride at least 4 times a week when the weather is nice.
2. Keep up with my kettlebell routine, doing it at least twice a week.
3. Increase to 15 pound dumbbells for my arm exercises (currently on 10 – next step is 12! then 15!)
4. Give Yoga a try – Take at least two classes (in studio) a month and practice twice a week from home.
They may sound simple, but i think they are JUST PERFECT — challenging, but not unrealistic. And notice how I’m not focusing on weight or “fitting in to a pair of skinny jeans.” These goals should be about fitness! About making your body strong and helping you feel good — the rest will follow, I promise. Like I say, it’s all about your perspective.
What are your fitness goals for 2010?
Don't let this guy scare you - we can do it!