Thursday, June 30, 2011

Poetry Slam - The Twisted Road

*Disclaimer: I haven't done a poetry slam in YEARS, however I was a published poet as a teen. I do still write from time to time, but rarely for public consumption, so here ya go!


The Twisted Road

From first the light of day we see,
The twisted roads unfolds.
On final morn when cease to be
The Twisted Road grows cold.

First parents guide us on our way,
But fight the road, we do.
And soon enough we're on our own,
And the Road continues too.

It turns and twists, with rolling hills
And mountains we must climb
Unexpected landslides
Which over we must rise.

The road is almost never straight
But no one is truly lost.
For when the heart's the compass
It won't matter the cost.



It takes us where we never dreamed
Where are some get tattered and torn,
But no matter the twisted, shadowed turn,
A sunkist moment is born.

No matter where it goes, my friend,
No matter the rabbit hole,
A guiding light will find it's way
To heal the winding road.

Travelers are not alone,
Though cold the wings may blow,
For every stumble along the road
Helps the traveler grow.


Wednesday, June 29, 2011

I've got it good even on a bad day.

Stands have appeared all over town selling fireworks (which is new to me - in CA, they are illegal).  For the past week plus I've been bugging My Sailor with "Are you working on the 4th of July?" as I try to make plans for something to do. See, everyday is different for him, and often times we only get about 24 hours notice on what the plan is for the next day. Makes planning things next to impossible. So, being the planner that I am, I have a Plan A and a Plan B so I can be flexible and roll w/ whatever happens.

However, last night My Sailor gave me the BEST news.
I'd resigned myself to making NO plans on the 4th of July and just spending it like I'd spend any other day off from work and rehearsal.

Last night, though, he told me that he's arranged for me to come on base and spend it with him! There is a pizza party, and we can watch the fireworks from a ship! How cool is that?!

So yesterday My Sailor and I had a kinda crappy day. It left us snappy and short tempered. But I have to give him kudos on this one. He really helped turn the whole day around! We were settled in to watch a movie (Season of a Witch - skip it...) and he pauses it and says, "Do you want to go to the jacuzzi?"

Ya know, I didn't even know that was what I needed until he brought it up! We hadn't been to the jacuzzi in a over a week, and I'm something of a fish when it comes to water.  I'd be in there every day if I could make the time.

Once I was in my swim suit, all was right with the world again. We got to unwind and just talk about nothing important for a good while before other people joined us. When the Jacuzzi got too crowded, we headed out, but MAN, that was JUST what I needed to help heal the frazzled nerves and get some R&R. And get AWAY from screens.  It's great to just enjoy the company of another person - rather than divide your attention between that and a screen.

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

A Beautiful Weekend - and a Broken Toe

If you were eagerly awaiting the results of Measurement Monday - you'll have to wait 1 more week. Yesterday was so incredibly busy, I didn't get to it. It was pretty productive though! I ended up working my full day, getting the grocery shopping done at several stores, and finishing my latest article for Celebrations Magazine.
In fact, I even managed to get my foot tangled in the cord to my Acer and break a toe right before bed. Talented, aren't I?
But I wanted to share some of my amazing weekend with you, dear readers (ye brave, ye few).

Me and Disney Legend Floyd Norman

Me and Jonathon "The Voice" Dichter

Me and Lou Mongello of WDWRadio

Me, My Sailor, and Disney Legend Jack Lindquist


Saturday, My Sailor and I went to the Pacific Northwest Mousemeet! The PNW Mousemeet was awesome. It gave a great taste of Disney right here in Washington and was well worth the drive. I got to meet 2 Disney Legends (Floyd Norman and Jack Lindquist), as well as several online Disney Fan personalities! We got some merchandise signed (photos of that once it's all framed and hug) and got to donate to 2 really great causes (Make-A-Wish and Avon Breast Cancer Walk). It was a long day, but a great one!  To my surprise, My Sailor didn't just "tolerate" my Disney Day, but ENJOYED himself! Even sitting through the Disney Legends as speakers. I could have listened to Jack Lindquist for hours! Floyd had some really funny cartoons of Walt to share too. All in all, it was an amazing day.




Sunday, I had rehearsal. Gotta love the irony of having such a beautiful day and having to spend it indoors in a room with no windows. But once rehearsal began, I didn't miss the sunshine outside. My Sailor and I made the best of the morning though! We drove down to Gig Harbor and had breakfast at a little mom and pop cafe. Their patio is the dock.



Rehearsal went great and the show is really coming together. This group is so talented, this is probably the first time I've been in a show and not wondered "How is this going to EVER come together?!" The show is going to be amazing. And for such a tiny theater! I'm impressed with everything the group is doing - from the set to the directing.

Friday, June 24, 2011

A Workout update!

So I'm pretty excited about my progress thus far in working out. For the last 2 weeks, I've formally worked out 9 days! I could add 2 days of informal work outs because rehearsal has had me breaking a sweat for 2 weeks, so that's about 11 days out of 14.

Anyway, I'd really love to work out every day of the week "formally". What I mean by "formal" work out, is going to the gym, or doing Just Dance 2 w/ the intent of working out, running, etc. An "informal" work out for me is anything requiring effort that breaks a sweat.

The great thing is, I'm feeling MUCH more fit. In so many ways, I'm feeling back to my old self. My mood is brighter and I'm more focused and productive. I've also been sleeping a bit better too. Whew!

With all of this happening, I'm starting to think of my next challenge. Marathons interest me a little, but I really like something that changes up every once in a while. I am FAR from ready for a warrior dash, but I might be getting into Tri shape pretty soon...

No, I haven't dropped a ton of weight. In the last 3 weeks, I've lost 3lbs (and some odd ounces). That's not a lot - but it's slow and steady progress. I'm okay with it because of the way I feel - muscles ignited, strong, powerful, energetic, clear headed, etc. 

On the 13th, My Sailor and I took body measurements. Monday is measuring day #2, and I'm pretty interested to see the results!

Here was June 13th - where I weighed in at 210 lbs that day:
Neck  13.5
Waist 40
Chest 42
R Arm 14
Hips 50.5 (UGH!!!!!! Applebottm Jeans anyone?)
R Thigh 29.5
R Calf  17

With the bit of lifting I've been doing and the massive sweats I've been getting on, I'm really excited to see what the future holds. It feels great to know I'm doing something great for my body.

IF I STALL OUT ON WEIGHT LOSS - I'm sure starvation mode will be the culprit. My Sailor reminds me about my calorie numbers, and we make sure I eat at LEAST 1200 calories/day. I really DON'T try to starve myself. I'm a grazer. And I'm good a grazing on healthy low calorie snacks... sometimes too low. But I continue to work on it.

Life, afterall, is a work in progress!

Thursday, June 23, 2011

A Little Clip from South America!

So a little bird dropped me an e-mail from South America this morning!

It didn't say much, but my parents (who are vacationing there) sent me this photo:








As they say - a picture is worth a thousand words. (And yes, my mom is a an AWESOME photographer.)

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

A Summer Solstice Sunset

We took a stroll down by the Marina on the longest day of the year. And what a lovely night it was.

We capped off the day by watching Bridesmaids (very funny) and having a martini at the local martini lounge, OneTen Lounge. The martinis were great and the Lounge was a wonderful discovery! Reasonably priced, it's open late, offers free wi-fi, and the perfect conversation spot. We're sure to be back - and I can just see myself blogging away from there once My Sailor is underway. What a perfect way to start the summer.

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

A Rude Awakening and Themed Date Night In!

So we're planning on going to visit My Sailor's family next month. We originally budgeted about $800 for the trip. Since the goal is to spend time with family, we'll be coach surfing and all that. Well, to our surprise, airfare has gone THROUGH THE ROOF! It's over $1000 just for plane tickets currently. We're hoping that's changing and/or that the airlines will have some compassion for a Sailor about to be deployed trying to introduce his girl to his family before he leaves. More on that story as it develops.

IN OTHER NEWS (and it's safe to post this year since he's been too busy and tired to read my blogs), I'm working on a Date Night-In!

The Theme?
Swiss Family Robinson!
I'm actually not sure how to build this one. I'm thinking grass skirts around the table, some rustic looking candles, and some other tropical decor. A trip to Party City may be necessary...
This probably won't happen until Thursday.
Now, any suggestions for what to put on the menu? Think "Swiss Family Robinson"!

Saturday, June 18, 2011

Movie Reviews - Super 8 and Green Lantern

There is something to be said for our small town of Port Orchard. And that is - we have a movie theater, a drive-in movie theater, a roller rink, and a bowling alley.

But that said, we usually choose to hit up the movie theater or the drive-in (especially with summer movies upon us).

This past week, we saw 2 flicks that were both really great:

Super 8 was a fun movie, designed for any monster movie lover, or child of the 80's. Somewhere between The Last Starfighter and Goonies, this movie engages monster movie cliches in a highly entertaining way.

My Sailor was impressed by the child actors (and I have to admit, there wasn't a weak link in the cast). I was impressed by the monster. See, ever since Cloverfield was released, nearly all monsters have looked like Cloverfield, or a cross between Cloverfield and Alien. Even the Kraken in the recent Clash of the Titans movie bore a striking resemblance to good ole' Clover. Cloverfield was a fun monster movie as well (once you got over the shakey cam perspective).  But I was thrilled to FINALLY see a creature that is creative take the screen. Maybe it had a touch of District 9's alien's in it, but just a touch.

Overall, yes yes yes yes - go see this movie. (and stay through the credits)!

The other film we saw last night - Green Lantern!  It was awesome.  I'm not familiar with the storyline outside of the movie, but My Sailor is, and he feels that it's pretty much spot on. The characters were engaging and the not-so-subtle messages about the power of fear vs the power of courage made for some interesting dinner conversation afterwards. We saw this one in Real 3D and it was awesome.

What films are next? Cars 2!

Friday, June 17, 2011

Success and South America

I swear I am NEVER going back AGAIN!

I've been logging into MyFitnessPal and working out just about every day this week.

AND I FINALLY had a break through!

I almost died when I got on the scale this morning and didn't see a a 210 number.209? Really?! I've been playing around with 210ish for so long, that to see a TWO POUND loss in 1 week is so encouraging! I'm going out to dinner tonight with My Sailor and a few of his friends, so I'm going to get my work out in on my lunch break. Since I've been more active, I've seen other changes too. I'm more focused, more accountable, and generally a better version of me. It feels good.

That brings me to my next point. What have I been doing to work out?
Well, lately it's been Just Dance 2 for the Wii!
While it doesn't let me close my eyes and day dream like using the elliptical in the gym does, it makes the time fly, getting me moving to music that has a great beat. Sometimes it's 70's, sometimes it's 80's, sometimes it's hip-hop or swing, but it's always fun. Here's the trailer.


[Wii]Just Dance 2 - First Trailer by Link_Prime
It's probably the only game I can beat My Sailor at on a fairly regular basis (but he's getting better)!

In other news:
My parents head out of the country today for a vacation with some friends in South America! Peru and Argentina to be specific.
And another co-worker is heading out of the country for a honeymoon in Paris and a few other European destinations.

Needless to say, I'm a little jealous. I'm thrilled for my parents. My mom really needed a vacation. In fact, I'm sure she's ready to retire! (Like mother like daughter - her healthcare job is high stress; just like mine.) As for the honeymoon, I'm a little jealous that My Sailor and I won't be taking anything a trip like that for a while, but next year, anything is possible.

Thursday, June 16, 2011

Military Homecomings


Lately, My Sailor's schedule has been picking up a lot. He's on base more than he's home. That's not a complaint, mind you - work, working out, and Into The Woods has kept me very busy myself. With him being so busy, naturally my mind turns to what it'll be like when he's deployed. I'm looking forward to taking the time to visit family and friends, finish some scrap books, and train (physically) while he's gone.
The Navy is also hosting a lot of free events that I'm looking forward to attending (oh PLEASE oh PLEASE don't let them be filled with moms - some level-headed childless woman would be great too).
We've all seen the tearful homecoming videos. (This is my favorite.) However, due to the nature of My Sailor's work, there won't be a big party organized to welcome him home. Sometimes, it makes me a little sad to think that we won't be able to celebrate him coming home from 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea with his friends and family, but either way, it'll be great to have some down time - and I have the up most respect for those who's loved ones stand on the front line.

If there is one thing life has taught me, it's that we are much stronger and me adaptable than we give ourselves credit for.

Monday, June 13, 2011

This time last year...

It's almost the middle of June and I've been a little (a lot) discouraged lately about my inability to lose weight. I'm trying to figure out why this bothers me so much and I think part of it is fear. Afterall, last time I couldn't lose weight and felt exhausted, it was because I was staring down the possibility of ovarian cancer square in the face.

I'm pretty sure this time, it's different. I have to remember that I'm still acclimating to Washington living. Mainly, the lack of sunshine I get - and the fact that it stays light out until about 9pm. My internal clock isn't ready to go do bed until it's been dark for a few hours. So my body isn't used to this and yes, SAD is a real thing. So I've upped by vitamin D and I'm doing better day by day. Also, working out on a daily basis really helps me sleep better.

But remembering where I've come from is the biggest help. This time last year, I was working out and unable to audition for any shows due to my medical status. The Cast of Rasputin, A Very Very Very Dark Comedy helped me stumble through the first few months of tests and waiting. I was VERY driven to work out and enjoyed life to the fullest every day, just in case I got the "5 year expiration date" that nearly 85% of Ovarian Cancer patients get. I remember counting down the days until surgery.  It was to be in July... My Sailor, family, and friends encouraged me or distracted me often. Boxer babe and I leaned on each other as we stumbled through life with nights at the jacuzzi, dinners and lunches

Well, now, I'm living in a different state and "lefty" (my one remaining ovary) and I are doing just fine. Yes, I've put on about 10 lbs from when I was going into surgery, but I'm sure they'll fall off. My attainable goal is to be in the 190's when my parents come out to visit this August. Completely attainable since that's about 11 lbs away and I have about 6 weeks to meet it.


Wednesday, June 8, 2011

The Yosemite road trip



About a week ago, I left Port Orchard to embark on a drive to Yosemite. It was a long drive. Roughly 40 hours round trip, done over about 3 days.

But I'm so glad I braved the road for it, for so many reasons:

1) First of all Green Guy got married! Now, I've been blessed to have some amazing men in my life - ranging from my family members to friends who have become my family.  Until that day, I wasn't fully aware how much I consider Green Guy like a brother. I am speechlessly honored to be a part of several major events in his life. His wife is stunningly beautiful inside and out. There was a nearly-tangible connection between them and I've never seen Green Guy so happy. In his happiness, he remains one of the most inspirational people in my life. Congrats Green Team! I'll be writing more about this one later, once I have more photos to post.

2)YOSEMITE! I can see why they love this place so much. To say it's "amazing" or "beautiful" would be doing it a disservice. It's the kind of place that reminds me why I love living a more rural. Driving to Glacier Point on Friday brought tears to my eyes. It felt like nature at it's best. I can't wait to go back with My Sailor when we have time so we can really go hike and explore. Even the 10 feet drifts of snow on the way didn't dampen my spirits.






3) I stayed healthy! Usually, a road trip would mean a tour of drive-thrus and french fries. Aside from having to deal with diet soda to help with the caffine necessary, I filled my cooler with veggies, fruits, protein bars, and

But the best part of the entire trip was the feeling of community I felt. Green Guy's family and Green Girl's friends truly adopted me into the group. It made me realize that I do enjoy living in the mountains, but I miss that sense of community that I took for granted while living around my family.  I wish I had brought my camera so I'd have more pictures, but I'm sure I can find photos through Facebook and the other guests.

Anyway, I was VERY happy to get home on Sunday afternoon too. My Sailor made sure I came home to a happy dog, a clean apartment, a potted orchid (my favorite), and a salmon dinner! Sometimes you don't realize how much you miss someone until you're parted for a while. If this is any sign of things to come, homecoming from his deployments will be wonderful.

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

I'm So Excited - and I just can't hide it! Oh no, oh no...

This morning, I jumped on the scale. I've been avoiding it for a few weeks now, because I was sick of seeing 212 on it.

So yesterday, I decided I was going t really pay attention to my calorie intake and stay within, if not below, my MyFitnessPal.com plan.  My Sailor let me cook dinner (which really helped! He's a great cook, but not entirely used to cooking meals that average about 250-300 calories. His, while healthy, are closer to 500 calories).

All that said and done, I managed things well yesterday! Working 10+ hour days, I haven't really made time to work out. I'm only taking 30 minute lunch breaks and that's really only long enough to either actually make and eat a lunch, or do 1 chore. I can't wait to get back to a regular work schedule soon. I'm sure Clydas is ready for me to get back to normal soon too! So someone isn't too tired to walk/run with him a couple times a day.

Anyway, that's my victory for the week! Being down 2 lbs!  And just in time for Green Guy's wedding in Yosemite. It's looking like it's gonna be a great summer.