Initial thoughts on...initials

Is it just me or are people increasingly using initials to sign emails, Facebook messages, etc? I only call one person by her initials on occasion only because it's LBC otherwise known as Long Beach California. Only feels natural to call her by her first name. When did initials become cool? Sure, appropriate to use for official documents, but not sure how I feel about it otherwise. When I use my initials to sign things it makes me nervous. I usually use "BF," which can mean many things to many people.

Here are options I tend to think of upon seeing those letters together:
-best friend (of course)
-boyfriend
-blood flow
-breastfeeding (ew, it still seems unnatural)
-Benjamin Franklin (my other BF as in best friend, not boyfriend)
-bodily function
-brace face (aka what I was for 10 years with dental parents)
-baby's father
-and of course, butt f*&%$er (don't yell at me, it really can stand for that)

Many more of course, you get the idea. Given those choices, who in heavens name would use initials? Only thing I can come up with is if your name is worse than the things above...although I doubt anyone can beat "butt-f*&^er." Although I accept a challenge!

Then there's the question of whether or not to us "." between letters. It would be appropriate since it's technically an abbreviation, but certainly detracts from the coolness.

xoxo, (this is gaining popularity as well, but that's for another post)

BF

Today I'm grateful for enzyme treatments...my aestitian rocks, gifts, and New Year's Eve parties.

Santa Paws!

Merry Christmas from Santa Paws! Isn't my dog the cutest, EVER?

Scroogie

Every year I struggle with the same social battles around the holidays - Merry Christmas v. Happy Holidays. I am soooo that grumpy woman who says, "Happy holidays" back to the lighthearted elderly man ringing the Salvation Army bell who kindly says, "Merry Christmas." For years I've reacted the same way and to this day I'm unsure what exactly makes me feel so defensive about it.

For some reason when I hear someone say, "Merry Christmas," instead I hear, "You are Christian and you just don't know it." There are theories that Christmas was actually scheduled around a Pagan holiday (solstice), to help Pagans adapt after changing religions. (Holiday origination fascinates me.) I completely acknowledge majority of Americans celebrate Christmas; however, I don't like assuming everyone does. Some people call it PC, I prefer wanting to just be inclusive and not have anyone feel left out, which I assume they already do if they get told Merry Christmas all the time.

What's funny to me is that the actually root words of Christianity I believe in and love, for some reason what it has stood for in the past hundred years is what pushes me away. I believe Jesus lived and was an extraordinary human being, like the Buddha or Mohammed. Christ comes from the Greek word, christos (sp?) meaning light and lord comes from Armanian (sp?) word meaning life. I can't think of more beautiful words to represent this season - light and life.

Okay, really this post serves no other purpose than to apologize for being a Scrooge, and second to wish you a Happy Holidays, or Merry Christmas...whichever you prefer. =)

Today I'm grateful for holiday cards, fireplaces, and cookie tea.

Life in the fast lane

Yes I would say I live life in the fast lane...I go to express checkout lanes at the grocery store, I go 5 mph over the posted speed limit, and yes, sometimes speak so quickly I hardly understand myself. Finally this wild and crazy lifestyle of mine (please note sarcasm) has finally paid off as I have been offered a job as a speed dating hostess.

Oddly enough I went to one of this particular company's events almost exactly two years ago. After I was left at a restaurant in Los Angeles by my somewhat boyfriend I came back home after the crushing dumping procedure (note to men - Post-It notes are far better than this method) and went to an event with a group of girls. The evening was lovely, including the man who asked for my hand in marriage and told me about his pet python (still don't know if this is a sexual innuendo I missed at the time, I was younger and far more naive).

Anyhow (please for God's sake don't say "anyhoo," I don't care who you are), I'm still uncertain as to whether or not in my role the emphasis will be on "speed" or "dating." (Sorry, sounds funnier in my head.) Hope to see you at the events, in the meantime...please call me "Speed Match," as in Speedy Matchmaker. ;)

Today I'm grateful for holiday lights, knowing my worth, and becoming a matchmaker. ;)

Just an ordinary Sunday...

...with my picture next to the comics.

For all of you in good ol' CS (that's Colorado Springs for those of you who don't live here), a picture of me doing yoga is in the Gazette Metro section today...you can't see my shirt well, but it says "Arms are for hugging." Thought you should know. To the right is the actual photo, feel free to make fun of my triangle pose or my Go-Go Gadget arms.

The 108 Sun Salutations for Peace event was at Smokebrush Gallery. I don't know how or when I decided doing 81 sun salutations was a good idea...

Today I'm grateful for Community for Spiritual Living, my "Arms are for hugging" shirt, and holiday cookies.

Alchemist

Another book recommendation from the book club I seem to have started without inviting anyone else...is the Alchemist. It has been around for quite some time, but the messages are timeless. Plain and simple, it's about following your dreams (Personal Legend). The book holds the world record for being translated into the most languages (61) and you should read it for just that reason alone . Purposefully or not it has the power to unite humanity, making us realize we all have the same hopes and dreams.

What would a post be without quotes...From the Alchemist:
-"Everyone on earth has a treasure that awaits him."
-"Wherever your heart is, there you will find your treasure."

The genius behind the book is Paulo Coehlo and his other masterpieces include Eleven Minutes and Manual of the Warrior of Light. All of his books touch the soul and address a different area of life. Can you sense Alchemist is a "must read?"

The actual science of alchemy dates back thousands of years - achieving success meant attaining perfect wisdom. Alchemists' goal was to transform common metals into precious metals such as gold and silver. This book does just that...by turning a heart of stone into gold.
Today I'm grateful for fortune cookies, books, and a full tank of gas.

Love poem for love cake

I have two strong food loves in my life, one I've written about (the glorious cupcake, for those of you who don't regularly read) and lebkuchen (literally translated as "love/life cake"). It's my favorite import from Germany and I look forward to it every holiday season - or at least those seasons after I knew it existed).

So, here it goes...not my best, but will have to do.
How do I love thee? Let me count the ways.
I love thee for your depth, gingerbreadth and every bite;
My soul can eat, when feelings of delight;
For the ends of all seeing and impossible to replace.
I love thee to eat at everyday's Grace.
Most quiet need, by sun and candle-light.
I love thee freely, as in sneaking around at night;
I love thee purely, as you keep me in a daze.
I love thee with a passion that I abuse;
In my old griefs, and with my childhood's faith.
I love thee with a love I cannot lose
With my lost saints, --- I love thee with your gingerbreath, icing, and of all my adult life! --- and, if God choose, I shall but love thee better after cutting you with a knife.

(original poem by Elizabeth Barrett Browning, adapted by Becky Farrar for lebkuchen)

Today I'm grateful for brunch with Mom and Dad, clean rooms, and being caught up.

Best Week Ever

This week's highlights include new book from ten-pack (he proves it's possible) Olympian Michael Phelps, Playboy hires new CEO, and for some reason or another Speidi is still alive and well. (Will they please break up, pretty please?)But somebody's having the best week ever...Not sure if Paul F. Thompkins (why the initial Paul?) would agree, but I'm pretty sure it's me! To recap, dorky blonde girl (me) returns to Colorado after a week of yogic bliss for a night of comical karaoke (sorry, can't seem to think of a "k" adjective for an alluring alliteration), gets a job as a hostess for speed dating, gets an online Facebook message from a major hottie (who's somewhat of a celeb), gets offered a job doing marketing for her favorite dance studio, has an initial interview with Starz channel, AND has three dinner dates (with friends, no need to be that excited) in three days. Did I mention it's also the holidays (in case you weren't aware), so the entire nation is oozing love and goodness?

Sizzler alert!!! In addition to major hottie Facebook message...gets asked out by another crush just today...five minutes ago!

Ah, life is sweet when it's the best week ever, and isn't it always??

Today I'm grateful for Facebook, MySpace, and Google Ads (that will hopefully make me some extra money).

Karaoke Kid

After a week of peacefulness and tranquility at the ashram, it took me all of 2.47 minutes to become the karoake kid. This momentous occassion occurred just past 7 p.m. last night at the Sky Lark Lounge during the Denver Film Festival holiday party. All it took was singing "Hangin' Tough" (please don't make me type the name of the band, you should know) with Karla. The rendition included lots of classic 80s dance moves such as the Rodger Rabbit and hoodies (naturally). Within hours I completed four other songs that truly demonstrated my versatility - "Love Profusion" by Madonna (not so well known, but one of my favs), "Bohemian Rhapsody" by Queen, and mostly back up dancing and vocals for "Highway to Hell" and "Rolling Like a River."

 

When I lived in the sorority house one of my sisters (yes, I still call them that, my biological sister doesn't get offended, anymore), had a karaoke machine and I didn't understand the appeal. Over the past several years I've improved drastically and believe the karake equivalent to Mr. Myagi would be proud. Not sure if it's my imagination, but karaoke seems to be gaining popularity points. Although, I am willing to admit could be only among certain circles. (By certain circles I mean the ones I know and love.)

The evening ended with a tshirt gift from Magic Cyclops and my body collapsing into my car after a day of airplanes and air guitar. Wax on...wax off, wax on...wax off.

Today I'm grateful for sleeping in, books, and job interviews.

Wu wei, the action of non-action

Since my return to Yogaville I'm reminded of the concept Wu Wei. When pronounced similary to a line in Fergie's song "Fergalicious," although I doubt it's a reference unless she reads the Tao. (I'm hesitant to demonstrate how well I know this song, but here it goes..."I be up in the gym just working on my fitness, he's my witness (oooh wee)..."

It's the art of non-doing, which is spontaneous and effortless. No laziness or passive, rather, the experience of going with the grain or swimming with the current. Our contemporary expression, "going with the flow," directly expresses this fundamental Taoist principle, which in its most basic form refers to behavior occurring in response to the flow of the Tao (the Way).

It's one of the basises of the Tao and one I struggle with the most. I'm so used to accomplishing things by rushing around, writing to-do lists, fitting something into every last minutes of my day before I fall asleep. This way of living doesn't accomplish as much because I'm constantly chasing after something, instead of allowing it to chase after me (much more fun, obviously). Who doesn't want to be chased by jobs, men and the likes?

Once I leave yet again, this is the concept I most want to bring back with me. Plus, what a wonderful excuse to play "Fergalicious" as often as possible. (As if I needed one.)

Today I'm grateful for Holiday Cookie hot tea, chilly weather, and the anticipation of shopping.

There's no place like "om."

Home sweet "om," or Yogaville I should say. I came back for a week of R&R (meaning yoga and meditation in yogi speak) and couldn't be more excited. I keep telling myself that's why I'm here...really I'm here because something keeps calling me back to this place.

I thought it was meditation or yoga, really it's just that I feel so peaceful when I'm here. Since I left I have been on the constant go and Yogaville offers me the time to be a human being, instead of a human doing - like usual. What I continue to forget is that I don't need to come here for that feeling. I have access to it all the time, for any many number of reasons I just find it easier to access here.

I feel so fortunate to have somewhere like this to come when my mind needs clearing and my body cleansing. It's especially fun because I don't have any work (I mean karmic yoga, pardon me). ;) Some of my my favorite are gone for the holidays, but seeing and spending time with Sam has been wunderbar! I'm amazed at how one person's presence can make somewhere feel so comfortable.

That's enough for now...there's no place like "om," there's no place like "om," and there's no place like "om." Oh my goodness! I'm here! (sorry, couldn't resist Wizard of Oz attempt at a joke.)

Today I'm grateful for winter boots, jackets with faux fur trim, and yummy food.

"If you live life backwards it's e-v-i-l."

The word "evil" certainly puts a dramatic spin on things (and so do I on occasion, so I can relate), but I believe it to be true. This quote by Gurudev Satchidananda (didn't think I would EVER be quoting a guru, but alas here it goes...), speaks to what happens when we live from the past.

Yesterday I saw bits of Napoleon Dynamite before heading downtown and became intrigued by Uncle Rico's character. (Usually, I'm so in love with Skip I don't pay much attention to anyone else. The man wants to be a cage fighter for heavens sake, god bless him.) He lives his entire life by 1982 (which was a lovely year by the way - Year of the Dog, year of my birth, etc.) and not being put in the football game to win the state championship. What an impact that has on his life...people don't take him seriously, his girlfriend broke up with him, and spends majority of his spare time making videos of him throwing the ball or throwing things at Napoleon. The guy believes he can throw a football over the mountains. Obviously this is an exaggerated example of living from our past, but don't most of us seem to have small ways of our past being "evil."

I've spent a lot of time examining my current thoughts and actions and what an impact living the past actually makes. To this day I struggle with moving forward in certain areas of my life and how it's preventing me from truly enjoying certain areas of my life.

Moving forward doesn't mean forgetting your past, not missing it, or pretending it doesn't affect you. It's just acknowledging how it is now and that it can't be any different. I miss people from my life that are no longer a part of it, and that's okay. I miss parts of my life that will never be same and that's okay too. What living from the past truly prevents us from living in our present, which is were all the magic happens (no, not just the bedroom). I think what holds us back is the fear of the future. The past is familiar and comfortable because we already know what happened...living in the future requires a willingness to be live in unfamiliar and unknown (insert spooky music here).

But really though, 1982 was a freakin' awesome year...

Today I'm grateful for guacamole, guilty pleasures, and lunch with Karla.

Life after the fest

Day seven of life after the festival and here's what I have to report: my arm still hurts from playing too much Wii Tennis with Bill Pullman, it feels ridiculous to go to bed before 4 a.m. (so I refuse), I desperately miss lots of my co-workers, and I feel the urge to sleep on my floor as if it's a hotel room I'm sharing with four other people. I'm apparently ruined for life (or at least the next week until I adapt back to boring Beckyland).

On top of that strangeness the day the festival ended I woke up with purple marker all over my face after Stef's ingenius (please sense the sarcasm here) game called "Mystery Knucks." Basic premise is that various people write four letter words (clean and not so clean) on knuckles in permanent marker without knowing what is being written on the other hand. To make that day even more odd, a man walked into my hotel room this morning while I was sitting there naked after getting out of the shower. When I checked out he came over and offered me a peppermint stick. I sense symbolism, but am certain it could have been a peace offering. (Although I'm not sure how "I saw your boobs, want some candy?" makes it any less uncomfortable.)

If nothing else I really remember how much I love documentaries (real life is always so much more interesting to me than fiction) and a reminder that I'm still full of fun (which I was beginning to doubt).

Today I'm grateful for my own bed, unpacking, documentaries.

Giving Thanks

So, every day I write down things I'm grateful for and the one day officially dedicated to gratitude and I can't come up with much. Instead, I choose to do reshare my favorite quote - it pretty much sums up life for me...

"Be glad of life, because it gives you the chance to love and to work and to play and to look up at the stars." Henry Van Dyke

Today I'm grateful for life (and my ability to get really cheesy at random times).

Seeing new

At first glance the picture to the left looks like a dark blob, but eyes do indeed deceive. Believe it or not this is a pic of Rider Strong (Boy Meets World actor) doing a somewhat creepy "Eastern European" dance (as he calls it). I believe it sums up my Starz Denver Film Festival experience quite well. Things aren't always what they seem and in the end are just a fast-paced blur (the free alcohol does contribute to this immensely). This 500 year-old adage quickly proved accurate...festivals are not glamorous and working for them doesn't mean you get to see movies (contrary to popular belief, or maybe just my mine).

The entire festival feels like a blur (see picture above for demonstration)...10 days quickly felt like 2, which actually felt like 10 months. I'm still not sure what to think...did I like it? Did I have fun? Yes and double yes. Would I do it again? Not sure. I already miss the people I worked with and enjoyed feeling like D-List VIP; however, my dark circles appear more permanent than the festival itself.

 

Highlights definitely include meeting the Strong brothers (um, can we say double crush?), partying with Bill Pullman, and Mike's karoake nights (singing "Push It" will never be as much fun).

 

Today I'm grateful for my hotel room, hybrid cars, and the lovely people from the festival.

Love not h8

Today I was in my first (of many to come, I'm sure) rally/march. I have really held out on being visibly active in the political arena because of my last job in government. Working for a film festival, it's difficult not to be. I went to the anti-Proposition 8 rally/march with several of the people I've been spending time with during the festival (I currently have a lovely "gay gaggle"). The passing of this part of the California constitution banning their civil rights was something they've been deeply disturbed by. It felt great to show my support and all of us were emotional during the march.

Today I'm grateful passion, love, and film festivals.

Farrar is a Star(z)

For the next 10 days I'm working feverishly for the Starz Denver Film Festival (can you tell who the major sponsor is?) and it seemed only appropriate to homage via blog. So, Nov. 13-23 the Starz Denver Film Festival rocks the city with 45,000 attendees, more than 125 filmmakers, and pretty much just coolness in general (not that I contribute to that part in the slightest). Visit http://www.denverfilm.org/ for more info and screening times and titles!

See you there!

All Hail Madonna, Queen and Mother of...pretty much everything

Despite any remaining common sense, I decided in my blurry-eyed, exhausted state that a Madonna concert was precisely what the doctor ordered. I would have regreted it the entirety of my life if I hadn't gone! I would love to sum up the concert in one word, or a short sentence, unfortunately any attempts would be a waste. I enjoyed it so much I almost forgot she was 1.5 hours late going on stage!!!? All I can do is describe one particular scene of the concert that describes my awe (keep in mind the woman turned 50 this year, and I realized I just sounded like that old SNL skit):

Picture this: four large screens on stage in a cube as the music starts they begin separating and a car comes out...soon after a spin on the car around stage 10 dancers and Madonna begin jumping rope, and not just jumping, but double dutching!!?? Quick costume change (1 of 1700) and she appears underneath a fifth screen on a piano singing Evita. Are you kidding me?

My favorite song, because I know you're dying to know, was "Like a Prayer." I had an amazing experience while studying in Cannes listening to that song at a discotheque with a Bono and Jason Biggs spotting. But live it trumped my measly attempt at awesomeness. She had quotes from the religious texts of the world and photos. I felt like I was back at Yogaville, except for the fact that there were 50,000 people and a woman humping the floor - whatever.

This woman deserves an award (as if she doesn't have any already), if nothing else she deserves a new status of human being. She's a hybrid woman and mother of pretty much everything.

Today I'm grateful for FREE Madonna tickets, Schmendra, and my new Vitamix!

Attempts at a non-pity party

So, here's the deal...lately I haven't felt funny, inspired or very friendly for that matter (definitely not in the mood for a photo). I attribute it to salmonella contamination from China, new stressful job, adjusting to being home from the ashram, a growing frustration with finding a job that inspires me, and today getting rear-ended. I believe focusing on negative things creates more of that (guess I'm not so good at keeping "The Secret), so...instead below are a list of my favorite jokes. This day will not end as a sequel to an Alexander's Horrible, No-Good, Very Bad Day book (for those of you who used to read that book).
Instead I choose to list a few of my favorite one-liners (drum badaboom not included).

-The roundest knight at King Arthur's round table was Sir Cumference. He acquired his size from too much pi.

-I went to a seafood disco rave last week ... and pulled a mussel.

-Two silk worms had a race. They ended up in a tie.

-Two hats were hanging on a hat rack in the hallway. One hat said to the other, 'You stay here, I'll go on ahead.'

-A small boy swallowed some coins and was taken to a hospital. When his grandmother telephoned to ask how he was, a nurse said, 'No change yet.'

Today I'm grateful for Shannon staying late to talk to me, vegetable soup, doggie kisses.

Election Day!

I'm really impressed by the quality of candidates running for presidential office this year. While I have my preference in mind (I'm practically a socialist and believe strongly in a universal healthcare system, in case it isn't immediately obvious ;)), both parties intrigue me. I don't get patriotic very often, but having the right to vote gets me somewhat teary-eyed everytime (not that it takes much).
Today I'm grateful for voting in my third presidential race, Chinese Emperor tea, and sleeping in.

China, emphasis on "chi"

Got back from China yesterday and love it just as much as I did three days ago when I left (I had two Halloweens by the way thanks to the International Date Line). While I can't say my chi is entirely balanced (jerky jetlag), the concept of chi really started to make sense while I was there. We had an interesting tour of a famous Chinese pharmacy, got foot massages, and saw people doing Tai Chi. All of these to balance our chi, or life energy (same concept of prana in Hinduism).

The Chinese really seem onto something with acupuncture, acupressure, and Tai Chi. It's the balance and harmony of elements and emotions that keeps the body and person healthy and happy. They even name people and places after things to make them more balance. My personal favorites being a building in the Forbidden City called "Hall of Supreme Peace and Harmony." We even met a lady whose name meant "Happy Spaces." (Just thinking about it still makes me chuckle.) Does it get any better than having your name mean something so simple, yet profound? What an incredible reminder of your true nature to be peaceful!
I couldn't get enough of their signs...The sign above says, "Protection of virescene relies on us as we coexist under the same blue sky." In the U.S. I'm sure it would just say, "stay off the grass" or "don't litter." Leave it to the "Chi"nese to say things in such a flattering, harmonious way!
Today I'm grateful for my new humidifier, seeing my pets, and drinking safe tap water.

China is great (like the Wall)!

China is great (like the Wall)! Don't know where to start...I am learning Chinese, visiting the Great Wall (aka Asian Incline - my legs are killing me!), inhaling smog, eating yummy (bizarre) food, and using squat toilets. Indeed life is grand (and grander without squat toilets)!

Words can't describe China, it's just well, China. I left Beijing this morning with population of 17 million people. 17 million - the entire state of Colorado has around 5 million. I have a difficult time fathoming that many people, until I see the smog and sit in traffic. Now I'm in a "small" city (meaning fewer than 10 million people) outside of Shanghai. I just got back from a Buddhist pagoda. So far the sightseeing highlights include a pearl factory, Summer Palace of one of Ming Dynasty emperors, and a tour of a 2,000-year old neighborhood.

I love it so far - the people are adorable! I even made an older Chinese man laugh (which can be difficult I've heard) with my Chinese. My tour guide continues to apologize for his "Chinglish," but he speaks it well! Off to dinner and a silk factory! Love you longtime!

Today I'm grateful for tofu, clean Colorado air, and cute Chinese kids!

Wow, Tao

Two (rhyming) words for you - wow, Tao (pronounced "dow," want to ensure you sound intelligent). In honor of my continuing study of the sacred texts of various religions I continue with the Tao to get me excited for my trip to China (I leave today). I love it. It's mysterious, simple, and beautifully written.

Tao can be translated as the way or the path. The book explains it is indefinable and instead has to be experienced to understand it. It's a force of the universe and Taoists goals are to align themselves with the Tao. Reading the book forces the reader to use a part of the brain based on just being and not just logical thinking (something I believe a lot of us have a difficult time doing). It "refers to a power which envelops, surrounds and flows through all things, living and non-living. The Tao regulates natural processes and nourishes balance in the Universe. It embodies the harmony of opposites (i.e. there would be no love without hate, no light without dark, no male without female.)"

I love the concept called "wu wei," which means allowing nature to take its course. Other favorite passages include:
-The journey of 1,000 miles begins with a single step.
-If you want to know me, look inside your heart.
-If you want to accord with the Tao, do your job, then let go.

The founder of Taoism is believed by many to be Lao-Tse (604-531 BCE), a contemporary of Confucius. Confucianism, Buddhism and Taoism make up the three main religions practiced in China. None of these religions believe in an outside deity, which they believe can't be represented as one specific thing. These traditions have intrigued for quite a while because they focus on inner meditation and outside observation.

My first insight into Chinese philosophy was when my mom quoted, "He who live in glass house must dress in basement." (I don't know which is more alarming to me, that someone would have a glass house or that this is how she convinced me to close my windows when I get dressed.)

Today I'm grateful for my trip to China, green smoothies, Chelsea Handler.

Mean, green smoothie drinking machine!

People keep asking me how I've changed since the experience at the ashram. Apparently I'm still just as nerdy and from the outside look exactly the same (besides the beam of white light coming from my forehead of course). It's more of a transformation - nothing has really changed (wow, now I really sound like Landmark).

My transformation was purely based on my priorities and a new way of looking at life and myself. I identify with myself very differently than I did before. My days aren't comprised of to do lists (okay for the most part, old habits die hard), but rather optional activities I can do if I find time between meditating, doing yoga, working and just being present.

If I had to pick something visually that has changed it would be my diet, particularly the green smoothies I make almost every morning. I get excited to put fresh ginger, kale, spinach, mint, and banana into a blender to chug. (Just when I thought my days of chugging were over!?) I feel and look great (if I may say so myself) thanks to these mean, green smoothies! It was the Greens for Life book that significantly impacted my diet. I'm not ready to go completely raw, but I am ready to focus on eating a ton more leafy greens and enjoy it!

Today I'm grateful for blenders, kale, and ginger (can you tell I'm enjoying a smoothie right now).

Can't help falling in love with you, fall

"Ode to Fall" (lyrics by Elvis Presley, adapted by Becky Farrar)

Shall I stay?

Could it be the wind?

For I can't help falling in love with you.

Like the rivers flow, surely we will see;

Fall time, oh it goes;

Some things are meant to be;

Take my land, take my whole life too.

For I can't help, falling in love with you.

Today I'm grateful for Colorado fall days, warm weather, and soymilk hot chocolates.

Overstimulation is an understatement

My second day back in the quote and unquote "real world" (don't know why I typed that, quotation marks are available in written word) and saying I'm overstimulated would be a brash understatement (see photo on left for demonstration). When my cell phone rang for the first time yesterday in a month I couldn't remember what to do. If that isn't scary enough when I drive I appear to be in such a peaceful state I can't get myself to go above 40 mph. How did I ever handle Las Vegas a month ago??

I feel like the peacefulness in the eye of a storm, but am not sure it's serving me well right now. Particularly in the clothing department. When I met my mom for lunch yesterday (which was Monday, at least I understand the days of the week still) I showed up wearing sweatpants, Birkenstocks with socks (yes, awful I know) and a peacoat. Ugh and more ugh, thank goodness I pulled my mind together to get dressed for meeting my sister for dinner or I wouldn't have heard the end of it.

My body doesn't seem to be adjusting well to the foods I used to eat, although healthy not as healthy as food blessed by yogis everyday. On a positive note, my meditation practice has become much stronger and I crave it instead of it being something to check off my to-do list.

My name is Becky and I'm an overstimulator, but excited to be here. =)

Today I'm grateful for my Eckhardt Tolle CDs, Garden of the Gods, and organic blueberry muffins.

Hari Om Yogaville!

I head home tomorrow from Yogaville with mixed emotions. When I return please I request you call me by my new spiritual name "Saraswati" after the goddess of wisdom. I arrive back to Colorado on Sunday, October 12 and plan to dedicate my life from this moment forward to my pursuit of spiritual enlightenment and wisdom.

Just kidding, wanted to make you a tad nervous about any new hippie tendencies (don't worry I still have plenty to spread around)!

I've had quite a learning experience here and value this opportunity. I encourage anyone to spend time at an ashram. Even if you're not into Hindu or Yogic traditions this ashram really celebrates the wonderfulness of any and all spiritual practices. If you're not into spiritual practices, well...come enjoy the food and good company.

Perfect cleanse of body and soul - nutritious foods, lots of quiet, and yoga. Great test of any practice (spiritual or otherwise) is to see what happens without the structure and rely on my own self-discipline. I'm excited to come back to Colorado and don't know if Yogaville is in my future or not (depends mostly on if they change the name). ;)

Highlights of my stay at the ashram:
-Becoming so handy with a kitchen knife (she says with an evil grin)
-Flexibility (in spirit and body)
-Checking my email less frequently
-Meeting NNB (New Nutty Buddy) Sam
-Wearing pajama-like clothing everyday
-Saying the Sanskrit term "Hari Om" as if it's as common as the word "and"
-Small talk that includes discussing tuning forks, cosmic tents, and food combining
-Befriending spiders

What I look forward to most about being back:
-Seeing my family and friends
-Hugging my dog
-Eating ice cream
-Doing "normal" things such as going to a movie or eating out
-Making more to-do lists
-Eating fish

Today I'm grateful for yogurt with cinnamon, changing leaves, and my beach-scene flipflops.

Navaratri = Nine Nights

As I'm typing this a group of adorable children are chanting and walking through the ashram blessing it will holy water. Yes, another day in the life of a wannabe Yogi in an ashram in the middle of nowhere.

The celebration (can't get enough of them) completes the Hindu Navaratri (Nine Nights). Every three nights the Hindu tradition honors God in female form. Each night the ashram has a puja or offering ceremony to that particular goddess (Durga, Lakshmi, and Sarawasiti - pardon my spelling, I'm too distracted by the chanting to look it up). I enjoy the chanting and singing, but most of all the prasad (something sweet) after the ceremony. Even more entertaining to me is that the male form of God only has a one night in his honor.

Honoring the feminine traits in all of us, the nights are about each part of a Divine Mother who creates obstacles, then shows us the way is not about desire, finally brings us to wisdom. Durga rides a lion and is the "Destroyer/Warrior/just plain tough" and sticks her tongue out as a sign of her toughness. Lakshmi is the goddess of wealth and my most inspired form is Saraswati - goddess of wisdom and the arts (apparently I'm a reincarnate of her - or so I tell myself). ;) My favorite by far has been the motherly advice every few nights on what to focus on. They've been real doozies - my last one was "To use the lessons learned here to transform my spirituality through practice in life." Um yes, thank you. ;)

Although I would enjoy the ceremonies a bit more if we could stop singing the names of the goddesses after the 4,576th time instead of 7,988th time. No matter, as long as I get my prasad I consider it a wonderful Nine Nights.

Today I'm grateful for homemade banana bread, chocolate, and my journal.

Mourning mouna

In the Yogic tradition many yogis (including myself now) practice mouna, or silence. Today I took the day for quiet reflection and heard a lot. We expend so much energy talking to others and communicating it doesn't leave as much prana (life force) for when we need it. Enter stage right - the mouna.

Swami G (actually spelled Swamiji - but sounds funny thinking about it this way) says, "Silence is in your nature, don't disturb it." Reminds us that when we listen to the silence we can hear ourselves, others and the universe. That's just what I did today.

As predicted my senses were greatly heightened and I became more mindful of everything. My usual plain yogurt with cinnamon was delectable today instead of sweet with a hint of sour. On my run today I heard at least 10 different birds. I didn't sing in the shower and instead actually felt the water on my skin for the first time in years. My meditations were easeful and a piece of chocolate was heaven. Even walking was practically orgasmic (exaggeration). I counted 7,652 leaves visible from one of the dining room tables (estimation) and didn't chant today and heard how lovely everyone's voices blend together.

I was exhausted last week and attribute a lot of it to being overstimulated - imagine that, at an ashram. I now have two roommates, more shifts, and wanting to fit in all of my requirements. I'm a whiz at stressing myself out, I seem so desperate to disturb peace. I found myself wanting to crack some lame joke or say hello and instead I smiled politely and nodded my head. A friend of mine left the ashram today and it was even more wonderful to smile and hug without saying a word - those motions said everything I needed to say.

Last time I did a day of silence was during a Zen Buddhism retreat several years ago. I vowed to do one once a month - even living alone it was difficult. Always a plant or my phone ringing to distract me from not talking. Today the silence came naturally and I'm not ever mourning mouna again!?

Today I'm grateful for my "observing silence sign", metta meditation books, and packages.

Entomologists bug me

I'm bugged here at Yogaville. There are more bugs/spiders/creeper crawlers here than I know what to do with. This morning I showered with three spiders while a third watched on (kinky and creepy at the same time). Another reason to love Colorado - we don't have many insects.

Praying mantises (not sure of plural form) take over the grounds here. Lovely critters and it seems very appropriate for them to be here. On top of the "praying" aspect I find an odd sense of pleasure in the fact that the females eat the males after mating (apparently I'm not as into non-violence as I thought). I saw my first one on the window of a temple on my first day. Since then I can't get enough of them and am considering "mantis worship" as a form of spirituality. (Okay, that's a bit dramatic.)

Found out yesterday that many entomologists come to Virginia and in particular this area to study bugs. Information that would have been useful before I booked my plane ticket and found out I would be living with peeping Tom spiders and beetles (there's one who sits near my nightstand I swear watches me undress).

I don't of course never kill any of them (not even the spiders), that's really the best part - they run free inside here because no one kills any of them. Makes me smile that the entire stairwell to my room has a succession of spiderwebs that are more intricate than the food I eat.

As I type this there is a Daddylong legs above me on a web and an odd crab shaped bug near my feet. (They both say hi by the way.) I'm learning to adapt to this new kingdom and have a new appreciation for the reminder they bring to my connection with something larger than myself - however, on occasion they still bug me.

Today I'm grateful for praying mantises (of course), my new raw diet, and phone calls with Samuel.

Key to peace

As I've mentioned now approximately 792 times, my favorite part of being here are the scripture classes. In the Sutras of Patanjali (notice the translation is done by the guru who founded Yogaville - had to brag) Book One, Verse 33 it explains there being only four locks in life and four keys to open them. By keeping the four keys always with you when you come across any of the four locks you will have the proper means to open it and maintain your peace of mind.

One of the premises of yoga is using your prana, or life force, efficiently. When someone disrupts your peace of mind that energy no longer has as much power. This sutra has been particularly useful to me here because I tend to be really sensitive and allow others' attitudes and behaviors to affect me more than could be considered healthy.

By cultivating attitudes of friendliness towards the happy, compassion for the unhappy, delight in the virtuous, and disregard toward the wicked, the mind stuff retains its undisturbed calmness.

• The first key is friendliness towards happy people. Sometimes our natural tendency become jealousy or competition. Using friendliness allows us to become friends.
• The second key is compassion towards unhappy. This allows us to provide empathy and offer help if they need it.
• The third key is delight/gracious towards virtuous people. Acknowledge we can learn from them and appreciate their qualities.
• The fourth key is disregard/indifference towards wicked/small-minded people. Don't try to advise them remember instead there was a time when we could have been that way and remain calm.

So there you have it, the four locks and keys of the Sutras.

Today I'm grateful for Dove Promises, walks to the Lotus shrine alone, and yummy salads.

Happy Rosh Hashanah!

I don't usually write two blogs in one day, but had to make an exception today because of Rosh Hashanah and I really want to celebrate it. It's the first day of the High Holidays (or HiHos as Sam claims it is called for short). I just spent an hour with a Jewish swami talking about it and I don't remember as much as I want to, but I do know you ask for entry into the Book of Life. We ate apples with honey to signify a "sweet year" and blew a shofar (ram's horn). The parts of the holiday include asking for forgiveness for transgressions, prayer, and charity.

Ever since my philosophy of religion class in college I've been enamoured by the Jewish faith. It intrigues me and seems to be more of a philosophy I could be a part of instead of a strict dogma, which has turned me off in the past.

Today I'm grateful for honey, iron pills, and my last piece of dark chocolate waiting upstairs.

Just "beet" it

Just hit my two week anniversary at Yogaville. For honesty's sake I feel as though it has been two years. However, I had a small victory yesterday in the kitchen to share. Lucille (who now kisses me on the cheek!) asked me to do beets. I took one in my hand and a knife and suddenly it was peeled. Not kidding you, I began singing "Beat It" by Michael Jackson (I have the dance memorized as well) before someone told me to quiet down. It was a proud moment and very representative of my time here.

I haven't really committed myself to being here fully until recently. Just like my experience with the beet. I wasn't completely committed to getting the job done. My opportunity for growth and health is incredible and I have somehow, somewhat avoided it until recently. I want to have a spiritual practice that calls to my soul and allows me to be in a place where I can serve humanity (not by cleaning). From here on out my time here will be focused and intentional. My morning practices won't be a disturbance of my sleep and crossing off my assignment, but rather another opportunity to connect with Spirit and in that - myself.

The main virtue I want to focus on is self-discipline (no more sugar unless it's at lunch and if so I will only have one serving).

Today I'm grateful for Sam, garlic and olive oil sauce, and not doing dishes.

Oddities of an ashram

Despite the very scheduled days at the ashram, I'm beginning to see that "normalcy" doesn't exist. Allow me to elaborate on one of my oddest days to date, just in time for my two week anniversary and my mother arriving any moment:

I awake at 3 a.m. to people having sex in the room above me ("bare" in mind almost everyone here is not permitted to date or celibate). I go to my first shift in the kitchen where I work with my roommate, a man who lives in a "cosmic tent," and Lucille (a large African-American women with an accent I can't understand who calls me sugar and stupid in the same sentence). I chop fresh kale and veggies for several hours and then enjoy a conversation about tuning forks and the sounds the universe makes.

Fast forward several hours to lunch where I eat a lovely meal with my pretend husband and a woman in her 50s who talks to me about men and menstruation. After lunch we sneak in a gluten-free carrot cake (it's fasting day) and watch Sam's acting appearance on "Real Stories of the Highway Patrol." After I tire of making fun of him 17 times for his roll and shoot maneuver we watch someone's video of stunt school. Inevitably even more roll and shoot maneuvers to mock, thank goodness.

I go to meditation and yoga again and have a deep relaxation session where everyone in the class falls asleep except me. Now the day gets interesting...I eat dinner with the Aruveydic doctor even after he tells me my place is in the kitchen and he wants to attend my wedding. I head off to scripture class on the Gita where we talk about anger.

Sam and I talk for a few hours and leave the classroom to see a fellow classmate with his shirt off. Then he immediately jumps on one of those workout machines where it looks like you're humping the handlebars. (I believe they were popular in the 80s.) We stay there is shock for several moments before going upstairs. I climb into bed in time to hear the neighbors above going at it.

The oddities of the ashram can't be beaten. Hari Om (they say that here for everything, in this case it means - all is perfect, the Sanskrit symbol accompanies this post).

Today I'm grateful for kiwi, my Ugg boots, and my mom coming today.

P.B. with a side of J!

Pat Benatar with a side of jam (the rocking guitar, not fruity kind)! I found pictures from last month's Pat Benatar concert. The concert is still ringing in my ears, literally and figuratively. I can't stop making P.B. references...it's getting ridiculous.

Really though, I can't help it...I'm "all fired up." (insert fake laughter here)

I went with Shannon and Erin and had an awesome time. The opener was even good, even though her voice was slightly more high-pitched than mine (if that is possible). Just what I needed to forget that last week with my final paycheck and finding out my current beau was married. What can I say, "love is a battlefield?" (And look at me now...doing yoga and scrubbing toilets, it only goes up from here.) ;)

I do play a rad air guitar if I might add, rest of the band pictured above as well. I still listen to Pat as much as humanly possible when I'm running with my iPod. Even yesterday on my way to meditate, she helps me stay focused...on rock!

Today I'm grateful for Pat Benetar, Shannon and Erin, blasting music.

How hip is the script(ure)?

Now going on my second week at Yogaville (cringe, cringe) and I'm able to step back from working, and frantically remembering where I'm supposed to be when, and actually enjoy being here (which I believe has been the intent all along). Right now my favorite activity (haven't gotten into the chanting although that appears to be a favorite here behind meditating - go figure) is attending the scripture classes three times a week.

All the folks in my program (including myself) get together with a swami and discuss ancient, sacred texts and philosophies. It's like getting my philosophy minor all over again! Yesterday in class we discussed the Sutras and the concept of giving versus non-stealing. The swami mentioned in particular the story of St. Francis and how he gave to his community, it was a beautiful story and in his honor I am sharing the Prayer of Saint Francis (that and my brain is too peaceful to even come up with something bratty to make fun of - I did get up for the 6:20 meditation this morning and still have not woken up):

Lord, make me an instrument of Thy peace;
where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury, pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
and where there is sadness, joy.
O Divine Master,
grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console;
to be understood, as to understand;
to be loved, as to love;
for it is in giving that we receive,
it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,
and it is in dying that we are born to Eternal Life.

Absolutely beautiful, isn't it? Yes, I thought so too.

Today I'm grateful for sweet potato pudding, hats for bad hair days, and wearing sweatpants all day, everyday I'm here.

Behold the beet!

I have a new nemesis...behold the beet! Don't let its innocent look fool you - this vegetable has a thick skin, really. I have many a blisters the past few days from peeling and slices these little boogers. My experience at the ashram continues, the work is picking up and my meditation and yoga practices have increased drastically. We spend several shifts per week preparing food for meals and it includes hours and hours of slicing, dicing, and nicing (I just needed something else to rhyme here).

I hardly look like the same woman as before I left - my hands are weathered (full of blisters and a dog bite that occured yesterday), my hair unkept (per usual), and my heart soaring (okay, not quite yet, but I'm told it will happen).

Today I'm grateful for homemade gingerbread, Roastaroma tea, and a shower!!!

Arrg me matey!

Arggh me matey, it's I Barnacle Breath Helga! Today is Talk Like a Pirate Day and I'm struggling with how to celebrate whilest at an ashram..."Ahoy, walk the plank you scoundrel" doesn't go over so well during silent meditations (go figure). Thar be no talkin' a cat whilest we raise! Instead I will share a great knowledge of pirate name creation. Avast ye, below thar name generator!
http://gangstaname.com/pirate_name.php
Today I'm grateful for booty, fine lasses, and whiskey (okay, not really but it felt appropriate given the holiday).

One truth, many paths

I have been at the ashram now for five days and I haven't much to say (mostly my brain is just going nutso, yes nutso) besides that I'm working incredibly hard to earn my keep and meeting some incredible people. So far my closest friends are a medical student from India (whom I called an arrogant jerkface the first day we met and now we are BFFs), a Jewish man from New York whom I want to marry, and my roommate (a recovering niccotine addict from Maryland). I have found my peeps.

Swami Satchidananda is the Indian guru who founded this place and he was one of the first to bring hatha (Integral) yoga to the United States. If I didn't already have enough hippie tendencies I'm learning more daily and am amazed at how well I fit in. ;)

 

Satchidananda was the man who spoke at Woodstock in 1969 about peace (apparently this peace also included not having cell phone services, I miss my Blackjack!). His teachings are based on all religions finding peace together - really beautiful. The slogan (if ashrams have slogans) is One truth, many paths. The key things here are to serve others and be peaceful, oh yeah...and love. ;) I'm working really hard scrubbing floors, sweeping, and washing dishes. I'm apparently a Cinderella trapped in an ashram. From this day forward I'm eternally grateful to the woman who cleans my parents' house and my apartment (when I still had it). (I realize this last sentence sounds incredibly bratty, but I don't know how to explain my gratitude for not doing this work often.)

Today I'm grateful for fish, cheeseburgers, and chicken nuggets (can you tell I'm struggling with the no meat thing??).

Couldn't the yoga place be more flexible??

I leave today for Yogaville (I continue to give them zero points for name originality) ashram, pictures above. Nervous and excited at the same time. On one hand I'm somewhat frustrated because I wasn't able to go the week I wanted to go and have concerns about the no meat thing. (Last time I went vegetarian I became incredibly anemic and fainted in the shower and had a vicious concussion.) On the other I'm incredibly excited about spending four weeks without a lot of distractions and enjoying my own company.

As good ol' O.W. (Oscar Wilde that is) once said "Loving yourself is the beginning of a life-long romance." More self-lovin' isn't the only thing I'll be receiving from my mental detox. The amount you love yourself is really only reflection of how much you love others. I want to love myself so much that love for others just pours out of me and floods.

Now let's get back to my concerns...another one being the whole 5 a.m. wake-up thing. When the swami called to say I was accepted into the program she noted all of my references voiced concerns about me getting up so early. How well people know me, and what honest references I have! I'm hoping upon arrival and several morning wake ups at 5 a.m. they will see the need for me to have more sleep. My bitter hatred for the world or inability to control my appendages will most likely be a key indicator.

Another "rule" is not wearing tight clothing. Even yoga pants are tight, how do people avoid this one besides owning an entire wardrobe of mumus?? I have packed sweatpants and large tshirts, this will also be a fairly good disguise for hiding extra food under my shirt and possibly meat contraband.

Now for pros: more time to myself for reading, writing, brainstorming, running, hiking and journaling (the Dear Diary, it's me Margaret kind). Yes, as suspected these far outweigh waking up early (maybe), no meat, and tight clothing stipulations. Excitement is a brewin'!

I am curious what kind of "flexibility" exists in an environment with such appearing rigidity and schedule. Who knows, maybe some of the flexibility will rub off on me? Just don't take away my 15-minute increment schedule and I will be fine.

Today I'm grateful for Eckhardt Tolle, Community for Spiritual Living, and the basement inhabitants (aka a bazillion spiders).

MexiKen = Mario Lopez

I have recently become aware of just how hot Mario Lopez is, pictured left running with shirt off. During the "Saved By the Bell" days I was far too distracted my Mark-Paul to notice late bloomer Mario (plus, I still cringe just thinking about the pleated pants - I know you know what I'm talking about). He reminds me of a Hispanic Ken Doll (hence, MexiKen - thank you Dalia) because of his perfectly sculpted abs and pure handsomeness.

Where has he been all my life? I'll tell you...Dancing with the Stars, hosting Miss America and Miss Universe, Extra, America's Best Dance Crew, my dreams, and the list goes on and on...Most recently I saw him on Sunset Tan (my first and last time seeing it, I swear - I wanted to know who the "Olly Girls" were). The man is everywhere and I feel so honored to have grown up with his success.

The other SBTB characters haven't been around as much (can we say Dustin's sex tape and that's it). Although when I was talking to Kimmie today she swears Mark-Paul has a new TV show and Tory is on a Progressive commercial (I asked her if it sounded as though she was wearing a leather jacket - her signature).

Of the whole bunch Mr. Lopez took us by storm - he had to make up for the rest of the crew...I still talk about Jessie Spano's run-in with drugs (most classic episode, EVER).

Today I'm grateful for Idoru sales, Dr. Cynthia, and my kickboxing bag.

Life's purpose

Today I finished up a statement about the purpose of my life. (I know, I know a bit heavy for a Monday.) I beat another record at Mr. Bigg's on DDR (as if that doesn't give me an incredible reason for being alive!) and then began pondering how much fun I was having and what I really wanted my life to be about (besides setting DDR records on every continent). Last month I did a seminar and during the final session we completed a purpose for our life. Confession...I didn't really finish it.

People spend their whole lives searching and looking for a purpose or meaning. Doesn't really make sense when I started thinking about it. I quit my job and everyone kept saying I was leaving to "discover myself." (As if I didn't already exist!?) I'm here and I have a reason for being here. It may change or adapt, but I have a purpose. Why not create one and then live my life according to it? Something that inspires me and guides every decision I make.

Many famous people had purposes they declared and then had amazing things happen. Alexander Graham Bell said his purpose was to allow deaf people a way to communicate. He experimented with hearing devices and then invented the telephone. Gandhi said his purpose was to seek truth (satya). He later pioneered SatyaGraha, which was civil disobedience based on nonviolence.

So, here it goes...I'm declaring my purpose (drumroll please).

The purpose my life is for is to have the world know itself as one. The values at the heart of who I am are love, compassion, acceptance, and joy. What I can be counted on for is to focus on similarities instead of differences, to value everyone, recognize the value every individual brings to this world, and to love and nuture them as a sacred part of me.

Whew! I can't believe it, there it is...my purpose.

Today I'm grateful for Mr. Biggs, Z, and mango lassi I had with dinner last night at India Palace.

Ain't life grand?

Today is Grandparents' Day. I sent my grandparents an Ecard and am taking note that next year it will be via a form of communication that they can relate to more. I do adore them and don't seem them very often, but there's something really special about the relationship between grandparents and grandchildren.

Pretty much I'm just relieved that no matter what phase of life I'm in I will get a holiday. It boils down to that I love holidays, particularly unpopular ones. Last year two of the most fun days of 2007 were Talk Like a Pirate Day (I wore an eye patch and brought a plastic parrot to work) and Caramel Apple Day (I bought and ate two nutty, caramel apples from Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory).

Join me next month when I celebrate National Mole Day by having a dermatologist appointment on October 11 or National Evaluate Your Life Day on October 19 when I have another quarter-life crisis. ;)

Today I'm grateful for Sundays, my new journal and grandparents (of course)!

Four-hour Farrar

I am reading Tim Prentiss' 4-Hour Work Week (is there something seriously wrong with me that I'm uber annoyed that they didn't spell out "4?"). He had me at "MTV breakdancer in Taiwan." Really, the list of awesome things Tim has done (I assume we will be on first name basis b/c I'm determined to meet him) sends shivers up my spine. He lives the life I dreamed of in my office whiles staring at one of my motivational poster before quiting my job.

The job market of today varies dramatically from that of our parents and grandparents. Working a 9 to 5 (which I don't believe exists anyway) isn't the only option and certainly isn't one I want to continue being a part of. I worked at least 40 hours a week for 4 years and realize I was living around 2 percent of life in leisure or vacation.

It's human being, not human working or human doing. I'm ready to enjoy my life and spend money on things that matter. As much as I love my new H&M clothes, I have no experiential gain or anything added to my life. I'm committing the next several months to this new philosophy. I'm creative and intelligent enough to have my money work for me, instead of the other way around.

I quit my job to have a life of adventure for a few months and then return...why limit myself? Why does adventure stop once I get a job again? Why do I even have to get a job again? Just call me Four-hour Farrar, and Tim Prentiss-worshiper.

Today I'm grateful for queso dip, laptops, and the Office Depot where I bought my book.

"Stripping" in the City of Sin

Indeed I'm a "Stripper" in Las Vegas this week. Why the quotation marks and capitalization you ask? I have hung out on the "Strip," which makes me a Stripper and "Strip" is a proper noun. (I just coined this new meaning of the term and couldn't be more proud, other than the adorable new shirt I bought at H&M yesterday, on the Strip of course.)

I am currently staying in Las Vegas with a friend and taking a mini vacay. I'm the type of lady of leisure who needs vacations on her vacations, what can I say? The days have been quite lovely temperatures and I went through a sweat drenching run through the desert yesterday. My favorite part has been the sunsets - they're miraculous! I never noticed them in the past because I was too busy "Stripping" to look at the sky - heaven forbid!

The non-Strip part of Vegas is rather friendly and easy on the eyes (including all the eye candy I saw at the gym). Oddly enough, turns out Stripping is not my favorite past time in Sin City, instead I prefer shopping or running...what happened to me?

Today I'm grateful for pedicures, EFT, and hot showers.

Recycle you(r) piece of trash! (and tshirt for sale!)

This morning I watched my friend throw three aluminum cans and a plastic water bottle into the trash...while I wept silently at the kitchen table. Yes, I realize not everything that gets put into the recycle bin is appropriately disposed of; however, I think it's important to take small steps to be earth conscious and recycling is a great way to start. We live on a beautiful, lovely planet and I can't understand not wanting to preserve it.

So, I did what comes naturally to me when I feel upset about a social cause - I want to buy a t-shirt. In this case I decided to design one (my second t-shirt design of many I see in the future)!

Above is it, I may add a "r" after "you" so it doesn't sound quite so harsh. My desire isn't to call people names, but I do think it's a sassy approach to being green. I need to order a minimum of six before they will print them. Let me know if you're interested!

Today I'm grateful for books, gyms, and trampolines.

More hours of night = more light

Indeed summer is winding down, evidenced by more hours of darkness and kids at the bus stop. I have to say my summer was full, particularly the past few weeks. I have made quite an effort to do something new every week and lately every day. Here are some of my highlights: shuffleboard at Acacia Park, Pat Benetar in concert, giving away free hugs downtown by myself, quitting my job, Mile High Music Festival, trip to city where I lived in Germany, learning I was a master at hula hooping, setting a record with DDR at Mr. Biggs, going to Pups on the Patio at Nosh, Butterfly Pavilion, and my most powerful learning experience as of yet - letting several people out of my life whom I really love.

Although summer is ending, my days of light (enlightenment) are just beginning with a trip to Las Vegas, the city of eternal summer (parties). I'll be there for a week where I will stay with my high school friend Andrew and enjoy his pool and business savvy (mostly his pool). Then I leave Sept. 12 for Yogaville (yes, I give them only two points for name originality), an internationally recognized ashram (read as yoga and meditation retreat center) in Virginia near where I was born. I stay there for four or five weeks where I will do pretty much a mental detox (I fully expect one if not five mental breakdowns surrounding not making to do lists).

After that I'm home for a few weeks then leave for China with the family (I adore my Mom and Daddyo for taking me). Get back on Oct. 31, then the sky's the limit...several options I'm considering: winery, working at orphanage overseas, or living in the basement a bit longer. (Vague, I know. I am attempting to minimize much of my over planning tendencies.)

No, I don't have a lot money saved and yes, I am having another quarter-life crisis. Pretty much I'm ready to make a difference and want to experiment with other lifestyles (not those kind, necessarily) before committing to a new job or location.

Today I'm grateful for Shannon picking me up when I got locked out (again), pictures, and the DNC.

Becky the braless wonder

Just call me Becky the Braless Wonder, no really, I insist. I am making it a goal this week to wear a bra as few times as possible. If Posh can do it and keep her name and reputation, so can I! (My stipulations include when working out and if Prince William invites me to meet his mother - both of these instances require support without the risk of showing too much.) It is summer time, unless of course you live in the southern hemisphere, and a beauty of the warm weather going braless. In holding up to the true hippy I have decided this is an appropriate, and long overdue goal.

I am free, therefore my lovely A/B cups should be as well. My predictions: I will start hunching over to hide them, or throw away the rainbow assortment of brassieres I own.

Today I'm grateful for donuts, Volvic, and boot camp class (to kick my ass)!

Lady of leisure, sure

Yeah right! I am just as busy being unemployed as I was employed, just with different activities (besides my compulsive three times a day list making). I expected this, I have a tendency to plan my day by fifteen minute increments - not getting up and putting on panty hose or having an office hasn't changed this.

Today I: had an acupuncture appointment, cleaned my room, mowed the lawn, went for a run, cleaned out my closet, made lists, read, made two meals, and did laundry. I'm an action machine and I can't stop.

So, this is me, and I've always been a busy body. I love it. My largest nightmare right now revolves around not having post it notes and a pen.

Today I'm grateful for mowing the lawn, speaker phone, and trying new things.

My best idea EVER

Let us recap my first official day of retirement (or as I will fondly refer to as "My best idea ever"), the time is currently 11:59 and I just walked in the door from what can only be described as my first day living full-time:

I spent the early morning hours of my first Monday unemployed (er, um I mean retired) at a slumber party with one of my closest friends in Denver. We stayed up late watching stupid shows on MTV and complaining about boys.

As if this weren't fun enough I became a "lady who brunches" (and lunches, and whatever else fun to do with a meal) with a good friend from high school at Le Peep (insert lip smack here). After a rivoting meal complete with a smoothie and gooey buns I headed off to the Butterfly Pavilion in Westminster. I literally spent two hours watching butterflies do what they do best: fly and be beautiful.
Oh and it gets better...Hung out with my sister and played a wicked tennis match in the sweltering heat in our sports bras (yet again another grand excuse not to wear clothes, I love it). We were indeed a Swedish version of the Williams sisters. After being productive for an hour afterwards I headed over to Cold Stone near her house and had Cake Batter with rainbow sprinkles (this combination mentioned in an earlier post that explains my cupcake addiction) for dinner. Yes folks, dinner - because only the truly retired can get away with stuff like this without making ourselves feel guilty.

Once I watched children play in a nearby fountain while eating my ice cream I finished and bought a nice new yoga mat. I have wanted a new one for ages and wanted a purple one to match my third eye chakra (no comment here, just let me have my reasons). After staring at my new mat for several minutes I walked back to my car and took off for my Landmark Seminar, so conveniently titled "Living Passionately." (After my day today I'm confident I could design the course.)

Which brings me to this moment sitting at my computer sharing it with the World Wide Web and gearing up for another day of my best idea EVER.

Today I'm grateful for sisters, my car, and butterflies.