Chris is sick AGAIN. It is NOT pretty, that´s for sure! We´ve had the same thing to eat except two things: 1) Yesterday Chris drank a Hot Toddy (hot milk w/whisky and Cinnamon) 2) Tuesday Chris ate this Fiambre (a local dish for Dia de los muertos) that contained some shellfish (which will be another blog about how my host family tried to kill me...).
I think it was the shellfish that got him, he thinks the milk.... I don´t know, but I think that shellfish in a country where we´re not directly on the coast, and all the water is contaminated makes more sense... but who knows.
Any thoughts on this one?
Thursday, November 5, 2009
I Spy
Well this will be short, but I needed to write a little bit of a story.... Every country that I have visited thus far in 2009 has presented a midget in clear sight. In the USA it´s quite clear and obvious there are many, Mexico - I saw one on the beach in March running in a thong chasing birds, Honduras - I saw a midget get in a kayak and later came to find out that he was actually a porn star!, and Yesterday in Guatemala I saw a midget that owned an Internet cafe. I think that perhaps I´ve moved away from mullets to midgets...
Monday, October 26, 2009
Death By Exhaust Inhalation
Well I hope I return from my travels without some sort of respiratory malfunction or disease. They surely do not have any emissions requirements in this city. Walking in el central you get blasted by bus exhaust on every street corner - therefore I´ve decided to start wearing a gas mask. I hope that I don´t stick out too much!
Perhaps I´ll try to capture the perfect moment on camera for you to enjoy!
Pray for my health - I need it!
Perhaps I´ll try to capture the perfect moment on camera for you to enjoy!
Pray for my health - I need it!
Thursday, October 22, 2009
La Familia
You know – mi familia in Xela will never be my family! Dad and Mom are irreplacable! Plus, these people really feel more like a cousin or a brother and sister in another country. They are my same age with a one and half year old (David), so really they are just cool people that are helping me with my spanish! I try to speak to them about all the new stuff that I learn, but I butcher it everytime. At least they are patient with me, and help me figure it out. I’m pretty sure that I’ll never get POR or PARA in the correct context! I’ll try to get a family photo of them before I leave here so you can see who they are… you know the sad thing is that Alejandra (Sadie) is the wife, and I can never remember her husbands name. I think it starts with an E! I suppose I should figure that out sooner than later, especially if I want to write a thank you note for allowing me to stay at their house.
Oh a few things about the house. You can see a picture of that here, but you should know that it’s just the upstairs. It’s just slightly bigger than my old apartment off 13th Ave. It may not even be much bigger actually, but nonetheless you have an idea of size. You walk into the family room where they have some funny couches (I’ll try to get a photo of them soon), and a rocking chair – but not your typical rocking chair just one that sits in the corner holding stuff. To the direct right off the family room, you find their bedroom (where they spend most of their time). Next to that is a small kitchen complete with a stove about 1/3 the size of the average stove, a microwave (yes amazing), a fridge the size of my old one in my apartment (and believe it or not, it’s actually nicer than my old fridge! HA!), a small sink and a few cupboards. Nothing too fancy, and it’s pretty small. They have a bathroom just off the family room, and it’s your average bathroom. No tub, just a shower with very little warm water. A heating plate to try and warm the water. If you turn the water on too high, it gets cooooold, and when I say cold I mean that I thought I was going to have a heart attack from shock… So you can try to find warm water if you’re lucky! Oiff the back of the family room there is a dining room where we always eat, so we have family dinners which is pretty cool, and a great time to practice my spanish! I suppose that I get confused and play charades with them often at dinner to figure things out! I bet they go to bed and laugh at my lack of spanish skills! Oh well, as long as I can provide some entertainment!
My room… hmm. The window, or lack there of. I suppose it would be a lie to say that I don’t have a window, but it only goes to the hall closet, so really it’s useless. Not even sure why it’s there!? If you can figure out why a room would have a window into a hall closet, I would greatly appreciate the explanation because I’m quite confused. No air circulation + humidity = one really interesting way to sleep. They ask to keep the door closed because of their son, David, so you can imagine how HOT it is! I hope that one day I don’t suffocate! My room is more like a large walk in closet with a bed, desk and dresser. I do have a radio in my room that gets some good spanish stations, so that’s good!! I suppose it’s not a bad set up, but the lack of air flow does kind of put a damper on feeling sane in my room! I guess that’s good to keep me from spending time just sitting in my room staring at the wall, THAT may be a crazy person! HAHA!
Oh a few things about the house. You can see a picture of that here, but you should know that it’s just the upstairs. It’s just slightly bigger than my old apartment off 13th Ave. It may not even be much bigger actually, but nonetheless you have an idea of size. You walk into the family room where they have some funny couches (I’ll try to get a photo of them soon), and a rocking chair – but not your typical rocking chair just one that sits in the corner holding stuff. To the direct right off the family room, you find their bedroom (where they spend most of their time). Next to that is a small kitchen complete with a stove about 1/3 the size of the average stove, a microwave (yes amazing), a fridge the size of my old one in my apartment (and believe it or not, it’s actually nicer than my old fridge! HA!), a small sink and a few cupboards. Nothing too fancy, and it’s pretty small. They have a bathroom just off the family room, and it’s your average bathroom. No tub, just a shower with very little warm water. A heating plate to try and warm the water. If you turn the water on too high, it gets cooooold, and when I say cold I mean that I thought I was going to have a heart attack from shock… So you can try to find warm water if you’re lucky! Oiff the back of the family room there is a dining room where we always eat, so we have family dinners which is pretty cool, and a great time to practice my spanish! I suppose that I get confused and play charades with them often at dinner to figure things out! I bet they go to bed and laugh at my lack of spanish skills! Oh well, as long as I can provide some entertainment!
My room… hmm. The window, or lack there of. I suppose it would be a lie to say that I don’t have a window, but it only goes to the hall closet, so really it’s useless. Not even sure why it’s there!? If you can figure out why a room would have a window into a hall closet, I would greatly appreciate the explanation because I’m quite confused. No air circulation + humidity = one really interesting way to sleep. They ask to keep the door closed because of their son, David, so you can imagine how HOT it is! I hope that one day I don’t suffocate! My room is more like a large walk in closet with a bed, desk and dresser. I do have a radio in my room that gets some good spanish stations, so that’s good!! I suppose it’s not a bad set up, but the lack of air flow does kind of put a damper on feeling sane in my room! I guess that’s good to keep me from spending time just sitting in my room staring at the wall, THAT may be a crazy person! HAHA!
Blue Angel
You know that I would have thought that most of the café’s in Central America would just be unbelievable and incredible to just see each and everyone one of them, but I’m beginning to see that I am wrong about a lot more things that I thought! Central America = good coffee & café’s, right!?! NOPE, WRONG!! Places to avoid – Blue Angel. We have our school meeting here every Monday, and well let me tell you that this place is overpriced and doesn’t even have good coffee. I would rather drink instant coffee than this coffee! 10q for some coffee with cream and sugar (which is equivalent to about $1.15), hello Starbucks of Xela! I suppose I had a good Oatmeal Cookie (vegan style) there… that’s about all the good I have to write about the Blue Angel. If visiting Xela, don’t waste your money!!!
CEMETERIA
This ground is off limits! They say to stay away from the cemetary, which I suppose is a good place to stay away from in ANY country; but it seems so much more inticing when someone tells you to stay away. This cemetary is HUGE! The picture doesn’t do it justice, and well it goes on for blocks and blocks and blocks and blocks… They say that the hoodlums hang out there, which I would imagine to be those people that might beat me up and rape me, so I will stay away. However, I can’t tell you that I’m not tempted to sneak a peek in there! J There are other places they have told us to avoid, however they didn’t tell us where they were so how do you expect me to avoid those places??! Just curious!!!
I suppose that I will TENGO CUIDAD! (take caution!)
I suppose that I will TENGO CUIDAD! (take caution!)
FOOLED BY CHICKEN BUSES!!
So… lesson – if you have to yell at someone in spanish, even if you don’t have the right vocabular, try anyway. A group of 6 of us were on our way to Las Fuentes Geroginas and the climb of Volcan Zunil for the weekend. We decided to take “chicken buses” for 5 quitales (5 Q) about 50 cents in the states. For those that don’t know, these are old US school buses that obviously don’t pass any of the requirments for safety or emissions in the states; therefore, they are shipped to Guatemala for the use of public transportation. Not just any public transportation, but for transporting TONS (and when I say tons, I mean if people are not stacked on top of each other the bus is not full) of people.
We declined a ride in a van for 10 Q because we wanted to save the money so that round trip it would only be 10q for the weekend, but in hindsight we should have jumped on the opportunity. We arrived at the bus stop (aka – side of street where hopefully a bus will stop because you’re standing there), and a few seconds later the bus came. We jumped on with SEVERAL other people and paid our 5Q. We made it about 5 minutes on this bus, and on the first hill the bus broke down. Yes, the hood came open, and the bus driver popped out to “fix” the bus with his small tool kit. YEAH RIGHT! The bus wouldn’t even move, it sounded like an elephant having a baby – the bus was dead. About 10 minutes later the bus driver had made a call, and began to yell at us to get off the bus and onto the other bus that had just pulled up behind us. He opened the back door and the front door and told every one in a loud spanish yell to get on the other bus, my ignorance thought that we didn’t need to pay the second bus because we already paid the first one. WRONG! I was fooled by the stupid bus driver, I swear this is a job they do all the time to make more more. A conspiracy in Guatemala! (I just know it!)
Anyway, success getting to the town right outside of Las Fuentes and Volcan Zunil… Now the way home. You would have thought we learned out lesson to just make sure the bus was working. I swear this one was fine. No crazy noises, and we made it successfully half way back to Xela before the bus stopped, the bus driver turned off the engine and we just sat on the bus for 20 minutes. Finally, Deny (one of the guys traveling with us) got off to ask what the problem was because we were NOT about to get fooled again by these Chicken Bus Drivers! Oh no mister, I learned my lesson, you were not going to take my 5 Q and try to tell me to get on another bus! He said the bus was not full enough, so we had to wait until the bus filled up with people. This is where I learned what a full bus was! I thought when the seats were full, and the standing room in the center of the bus (which they would NEVER let you do in The States) was full, that we were ready to go. WRONG AGAIN! People kept coming in the bus, passing me and I have no idea where they were going. I thought for sure that someone had the back door open and people were walking in the front door through the bus for a tour and then jumping off the back. WRONG AGAIN! They were just piling people in the back like sardines. Literally I had a womans belly hanging on me the whole time… Ah yes, personal bubble POPPED!
Moral of the story – PERSONAL BUBBLES DON’T EXIST ON CHICKEN BUSES, GET YOUR MONEY BACK FROM SOME GUY IF HASN’T DROPPED YOU OFF AT YOUR FINAL DESTINATION, AND YOUR SPANISH IS NEVER TOO BAD TO YELL AT SOMEONE TRYING TO PULL A FAST ONE….
We declined a ride in a van for 10 Q because we wanted to save the money so that round trip it would only be 10q for the weekend, but in hindsight we should have jumped on the opportunity. We arrived at the bus stop (aka – side of street where hopefully a bus will stop because you’re standing there), and a few seconds later the bus came. We jumped on with SEVERAL other people and paid our 5Q. We made it about 5 minutes on this bus, and on the first hill the bus broke down. Yes, the hood came open, and the bus driver popped out to “fix” the bus with his small tool kit. YEAH RIGHT! The bus wouldn’t even move, it sounded like an elephant having a baby – the bus was dead. About 10 minutes later the bus driver had made a call, and began to yell at us to get off the bus and onto the other bus that had just pulled up behind us. He opened the back door and the front door and told every one in a loud spanish yell to get on the other bus, my ignorance thought that we didn’t need to pay the second bus because we already paid the first one. WRONG! I was fooled by the stupid bus driver, I swear this is a job they do all the time to make more more. A conspiracy in Guatemala! (I just know it!)
Anyway, success getting to the town right outside of Las Fuentes and Volcan Zunil… Now the way home. You would have thought we learned out lesson to just make sure the bus was working. I swear this one was fine. No crazy noises, and we made it successfully half way back to Xela before the bus stopped, the bus driver turned off the engine and we just sat on the bus for 20 minutes. Finally, Deny (one of the guys traveling with us) got off to ask what the problem was because we were NOT about to get fooled again by these Chicken Bus Drivers! Oh no mister, I learned my lesson, you were not going to take my 5 Q and try to tell me to get on another bus! He said the bus was not full enough, so we had to wait until the bus filled up with people. This is where I learned what a full bus was! I thought when the seats were full, and the standing room in the center of the bus (which they would NEVER let you do in The States) was full, that we were ready to go. WRONG AGAIN! People kept coming in the bus, passing me and I have no idea where they were going. I thought for sure that someone had the back door open and people were walking in the front door through the bus for a tour and then jumping off the back. WRONG AGAIN! They were just piling people in the back like sardines. Literally I had a womans belly hanging on me the whole time… Ah yes, personal bubble POPPED!
Moral of the story – PERSONAL BUBBLES DON’T EXIST ON CHICKEN BUSES, GET YOUR MONEY BACK FROM SOME GUY IF HASN’T DROPPED YOU OFF AT YOUR FINAL DESTINATION, AND YOUR SPANISH IS NEVER TOO BAD TO YELL AT SOMEONE TRYING TO PULL A FAST ONE….
FRIJOLES, HUEVOS, Y TORTILLAS…
That sums up what I eat nearly for every meal. Oh wait, I forgot black coffee with A LOT of sugar! Oh the food here is interesting. There are some things that I just love, like the pancakes (in spanish said – pan-cake-es). LOVE THEM with Jelly. Yeah, I know, kind of weird without syrup, but I think it’s better than syrup to have Marmilada Fresca (Strawberry Jam)… I don’t get Peanut Butter on them, so the jelly is a nice change of pace! J
Okay other examples of food that we’ve had thus far:
· Bananos boiled with crema (boiled banana’s with cream) – quite good actually.
· Plain Corn Flakes with warm milk – GROSS! Actually double gross. I can barely even eat it, I tried to have it just plain one morning and crunch on some corn flakes, but that just didn’t cut it. I can tell you that my ceral because a bowl of sugar REALLY fast!
· This morning we had some weird milk/water something, I think it was supposed to have oatmeal in it, but it just looked like dirty water. I didn’t even touch it, it was a little too scary to me!
· Enchaladas = tostada shell, some mayonase (you all know how much I love that!), some lechuga (lettuce), and some carne (meat), with a slice of onion on top. – I actually like these! I could eat these for every meal.
· On break during school, we always eat pan (bread). It is quite addictive, and bad for someone that didn’t eat much bread before they got here. I suppose that I may gain 30 pounds from bread alone – let’s hope that the runs and weekend adventures help subside that! Anyway, the bread with the swirly top is the best. It’s like candy. I think it’s call Pan Dulce (candy bread). I think this could be one thing that I miss when I leave Guatemala!)
· We had these things called Whiskel – it must be some sort of green vegitable. I really liked it, but it made my mouth itch. So I suppose that means that I am allergic, but I didn’t die so it must not be deadly – I may eat it again. They cook it in slices with cheese between the layers, wrapped in a egg batter (like french toast) and then pan fried. Oh wow, so good… Served with rice and an orange. I could definitely eat this again, minus the mouth itch!
· We’ve had asian food a few times, and Alejandra is a great cook, so that is always good! Served of course with tortillas and salsa! HA!
· Spagetti one night was good, but they don’t put meat in their sauce, so that was a bit diappointing, but oh well it was still good.
· Drinks: Café, tea, or water with some sort of fruit blended in (generally limon (limes) or papaya) and sugar. The papaya water is interesting since I think that it tastes a lot like butter water, I try to avoid drinking at dinner those nights!
I suppose that’s it for now, I’m sure I’ll have more food stories as the time continues… I did try street tacos, they were SO good! They tell you to avoid those places, but it looked so good I was willing to take my chances! No side effects and that was 2 days ago! YES, I passed!
Okay other examples of food that we’ve had thus far:
· Bananos boiled with crema (boiled banana’s with cream) – quite good actually.
· Plain Corn Flakes with warm milk – GROSS! Actually double gross. I can barely even eat it, I tried to have it just plain one morning and crunch on some corn flakes, but that just didn’t cut it. I can tell you that my ceral because a bowl of sugar REALLY fast!
· This morning we had some weird milk/water something, I think it was supposed to have oatmeal in it, but it just looked like dirty water. I didn’t even touch it, it was a little too scary to me!
· Enchaladas = tostada shell, some mayonase (you all know how much I love that!), some lechuga (lettuce), and some carne (meat), with a slice of onion on top. – I actually like these! I could eat these for every meal.
· On break during school, we always eat pan (bread). It is quite addictive, and bad for someone that didn’t eat much bread before they got here. I suppose that I may gain 30 pounds from bread alone – let’s hope that the runs and weekend adventures help subside that! Anyway, the bread with the swirly top is the best. It’s like candy. I think it’s call Pan Dulce (candy bread). I think this could be one thing that I miss when I leave Guatemala!)
· We had these things called Whiskel – it must be some sort of green vegitable. I really liked it, but it made my mouth itch. So I suppose that means that I am allergic, but I didn’t die so it must not be deadly – I may eat it again. They cook it in slices with cheese between the layers, wrapped in a egg batter (like french toast) and then pan fried. Oh wow, so good… Served with rice and an orange. I could definitely eat this again, minus the mouth itch!
· We’ve had asian food a few times, and Alejandra is a great cook, so that is always good! Served of course with tortillas and salsa! HA!
· Spagetti one night was good, but they don’t put meat in their sauce, so that was a bit diappointing, but oh well it was still good.
· Drinks: Café, tea, or water with some sort of fruit blended in (generally limon (limes) or papaya) and sugar. The papaya water is interesting since I think that it tastes a lot like butter water, I try to avoid drinking at dinner those nights!
I suppose that’s it for now, I’m sure I’ll have more food stories as the time continues… I did try street tacos, they were SO good! They tell you to avoid those places, but it looked so good I was willing to take my chances! No side effects and that was 2 days ago! YES, I passed!
INDIANA JONES: THE ADVENTURE OF EL VOLCAN ZUNIL & LAS FUENTES GEORGINAS
You would think that living a mile high above the ocean I would have been prepared for a volcano that was only 12k high. Heck, I’ve climbed mountains higher than that! I suppose being dehydrated from sitting in Las Fuentes Georginas (hot springs) at 8500 ft the night before with a diet of beans and eggs might have something to do with it… nah!!
The morning of the hike up Volcan Zunil I felt like death. I think a small alien was growing in my estomago (stomach)… not until I drank nearly 1 ltr of water did I feel better. There went half of my day’s water! I hope I don’t need any more to climb this beast! The volcano was dressed with a jungle of plants, bugs, snakes, and other fun mysterious things! I never have wanted a machete more than during that hike... After climbing up and over, and under and through different looking plants, and bamboo trees, and what looked like a perfect setting for the Blare Witch Project I was ready to start hacking a way!! There were times that I was so soaked from the dew on the plants that I thought I might have actually gone swimming. I was really confused. Ah, the adventure!
Entonces, 4.5 hours later we made it to the top to find fog… Yep. All that work for no view. I suppose I was glad there were a few stops along the way that allowed us to peek out to see the view of Guatemala, and also the other volcanos in the area – but it was quite disappointing how fast the clouds moved in! We actually got quite nervous that the black storm clouds were going to rain on our nice dry and clear trail – ha! Yeah right it was already muddy, the last thing we needed was to have more water running through the little trail that existed!
Shout out to DAD for making me learn how to navigate through mountains without a trail, and still find the way home! I think that you taught me more than any survival class could have. I do have one question thought – which of these fungi could I have consumed if it became a dire situation??
Well… until the next adventure… stay tuned.
The morning of the hike up Volcan Zunil I felt like death. I think a small alien was growing in my estomago (stomach)… not until I drank nearly 1 ltr of water did I feel better. There went half of my day’s water! I hope I don’t need any more to climb this beast! The volcano was dressed with a jungle of plants, bugs, snakes, and other fun mysterious things! I never have wanted a machete more than during that hike... After climbing up and over, and under and through different looking plants, and bamboo trees, and what looked like a perfect setting for the Blare Witch Project I was ready to start hacking a way!! There were times that I was so soaked from the dew on the plants that I thought I might have actually gone swimming. I was really confused. Ah, the adventure!
Entonces, 4.5 hours later we made it to the top to find fog… Yep. All that work for no view. I suppose I was glad there were a few stops along the way that allowed us to peek out to see the view of Guatemala, and also the other volcanos in the area – but it was quite disappointing how fast the clouds moved in! We actually got quite nervous that the black storm clouds were going to rain on our nice dry and clear trail – ha! Yeah right it was already muddy, the last thing we needed was to have more water running through the little trail that existed!
Shout out to DAD for making me learn how to navigate through mountains without a trail, and still find the way home! I think that you taught me more than any survival class could have. I do have one question thought – which of these fungi could I have consumed if it became a dire situation??
Well… until the next adventure… stay tuned.
THE EARTH QUAKED AND THE MOUNTAINS TREMBLED
Well there has been some exciting things going on here in Xela, Guatemala. On my way to school today, the earth quaked. You may think “An Earthquake!” Please do not be alarmed, or worried – it was more like a large truck driving by you on Market Street and making the ground shake ever so slightly. So – I would hardly consider the earthquake news… I suppose the earthquate in AK a couple summers ago with Zeke (while laying under some mirrors in the spare bedroom) would be considered more dangerous (pelegroso).
And the mountains trembled… Yes, my first experience watching an active volcano blow steam. I suppose he was upset (It was El Volcan San Tiagito). Mi Maestra (teacher) stopped class when the volcano blew so that we could see it, and then my lesson was on active volcanos and the history of Guatemala and Xela. I suppose it was a good day. I was only able to see a giant cloud of grey smoke, but it got me excited about the active volcano I’ll be hiking near Antigua in the near future… I’ll be taking marshmellos on that hike FOR SURE!
And the mountains trembled… Yes, my first experience watching an active volcano blow steam. I suppose he was upset (It was El Volcan San Tiagito). Mi Maestra (teacher) stopped class when the volcano blew so that we could see it, and then my lesson was on active volcanos and the history of Guatemala and Xela. I suppose it was a good day. I was only able to see a giant cloud of grey smoke, but it got me excited about the active volcano I’ll be hiking near Antigua in the near future… I’ll be taking marshmellos on that hike FOR SURE!
THE EARTH QUAKED AND THE MOUNTAINS TREMBLED
Well there has been some exciting things going on here in Xela, Guatemala. On my way to school today, the earth quaked. You may think “An Earthquake!” Please do not be alarmed, or worried – it was more like a large truck driving by you on Market Street and making the ground shake ever so slightly. So – I would hardly consider the earthquake news… I suppose the earthquate in AK a couple summers ago with Zeke (while laying under some mirrors in the spare bedroom) would be considered more dangerous (pelegroso).
And the mountains trembled… Yes, my first experience watching an active volcano blow steam. I suppose he was upset (It was El Volcan San Tiagito). Mi Maestra (teacher) stopped class when the volcano blew so that we could see it, and then my lesson was on active volcanos and the history of Guatemala and Xela. I suppose it was a good day. I was only able to see a giant cloud of grey smoke, but it got me excited about the active volcano I’ll be hiking near Antigua in the near future… I’ll be taking marshmellos on that hike FOR SURE!
And the mountains trembled… Yes, my first experience watching an active volcano blow steam. I suppose he was upset (It was El Volcan San Tiagito). Mi Maestra (teacher) stopped class when the volcano blew so that we could see it, and then my lesson was on active volcanos and the history of Guatemala and Xela. I suppose it was a good day. I was only able to see a giant cloud of grey smoke, but it got me excited about the active volcano I’ll be hiking near Antigua in the near future… I’ll be taking marshmellos on that hike FOR SURE!
TRIPOD
I want you to meet Tripod. I have adopted him as my pet. He doesn’t go home with me, nor does he even follow me anywhere – some kind of pet , huh!? However, I do see him on my way to school everyday, does that count? I have to apologize for the misleading name of my perro, but he can only use three legs; therefore, I call him TRIPOD.
If you want me to be brutally honest, all the street dogs probably could adopt the name Tripod. You know we should not be too fast to judge these scrawny looking felines, because they have more stamina than anyone of us. They rarely get any food, and if it is it’s usually what has been picked through three or four times from the street, most likely some sort of cardboard, or the like. We may call them pathetic, but if these muts can make it – I suppose they may be the stronger than most people. Perhaps instead of our critque and occassional kick, we should praise these animals for their ability to survive.
You may be wondering why I would write such praises about such disgusting animals; howvever, one must be take caution (tenia cuidad) because they can often be ferocious too! Don’t make one of these crazy guys mad or you may be running for your life. So don’t be fooled by their puppy eyes, begging that you would even consider dropping an ounce of food for them to gobble up.
Moral of the story – everyone has a street dog, and everyone’s street dog is named Tripod.
If you want me to be brutally honest, all the street dogs probably could adopt the name Tripod. You know we should not be too fast to judge these scrawny looking felines, because they have more stamina than anyone of us. They rarely get any food, and if it is it’s usually what has been picked through three or four times from the street, most likely some sort of cardboard, or the like. We may call them pathetic, but if these muts can make it – I suppose they may be the stronger than most people. Perhaps instead of our critque and occassional kick, we should praise these animals for their ability to survive.
You may be wondering why I would write such praises about such disgusting animals; howvever, one must be take caution (tenia cuidad) because they can often be ferocious too! Don’t make one of these crazy guys mad or you may be running for your life. So don’t be fooled by their puppy eyes, begging that you would even consider dropping an ounce of food for them to gobble up.
Moral of the story – everyone has a street dog, and everyone’s street dog is named Tripod.
Wednesday, October 21, 2009
Speech Impediment
I'm pretty sure that in Spanish I have a speech impediment... yep there are words I just can't say right no matter how hard I try. Do you think they have linguists here???
Monday, October 12, 2009
Are there Penguins in Guatemala?
You know I never thought living the dream was really something that American´s did other than the white pickett fence and 2.5 kids and a dog. Well my friends, my dream is a bit different. As many of you know I left the country to come to Guatemala to learn spanish, and the travel down into Central and South America! Well that dream is finally here and coming true!
Let´s see. I don´t have much time, so I´ll try to summarize the eventual things that happened since I´ve left.
Portland '- came and went extremely quickly. However, 3 weeks in PacNW was hard just because I wanted to get to Guatemala. But I was able to do some really fun things like see downtown portland, meet Chris´family, ride the train solo, and hike S. Sister (third tallest peak in OR). Other than that it was pretty low key, and actually quite nice to relax.
Travel - The airport was an adventure. Portland was just normal, nothing exciting or unusual. I was able to experience Chi town on our 7 hour layover. Now that was an adventure. The subway system there is ANCIENT, I would suggest a few updates for a city so large! Anyway it took 40 minutes to get to a part of the city where we thought would have good deep dish chicago style pizza. Once we arrived and got off at the Clark\Lake stop we found out (after getting lost twice) that we were in the financial district and that the pizza place Giodano´s (I think that´s the name) was closed. So we caught a cab to another one about 2 miles away. The pizza was declicious, but the service was sub-par. Oh well, it was still yummy. We got back to the airport to find out that most security gates are not open at 2am, and that we had to figure out how to get to the international wing when the train only ran every 20-30 minutes and that the doors were stubborn and may or may not open. YES - I was so excited to know that it was going to be so reliable! Anyway we got to the gate, and Chris set his cell phone down, and some kid stole it... later to be returned by the child´s mom on the airplane.
We arrived at Guatemala City, Guatemala and had to go through customs, which is not like all the other customs that I´ve been through. It was much quicker, and if you blinked you might have missed it! They actually check your baggage claim tickets in Guatmala at the airport... so don´t lose those, they are important! We tried to use a pay phone, but it didn´t work! So once we grabbed a taxi I used the little spanish I knew to ask him if I could use his cell phone. He must have understood me because he handed me a phone, and said I could call who I wanted. I should have just called home - ha! Nah, we had to call the familia to let the know when we were going to be there! The taxi ride was long to the bus station, longer than I expected but it was okay. I think the taxi driver took us the long way because I swear there had to be a more direct route, but nonetheless it was cool to see the city that way.
The bus station was small, and just like a hole in the wall where you hand some lady a few bucks for a ticket (that you better not lose), to hand to another guy that gives you a different ticket (which you better not lose that one either), to wait, and wait, and wait, and wait... then you get on the bus and drive like crazy people through the mountains on curvey roads. (Zeke '- you wuld have been so car sick!)
We arrived at the familia de Guatemala´s house by noon thirty and ate lunch with them about 30 minutes later. Then we were able to take a nap, and just relax until dinner time. It had been a long 24 hours of travel. (Oct 10 @ 11a PST to Oct 11@ 1230p MST).
My favorite thing is that my familia´s son -David (he´s a year and half) likes to hit and kick and scratch me. Oh yeah! Making friends right away! Sweet! HAHA! Oh well, he likes me he just also likes to do those things, so I had to tell him NO about 10000 times yesterday! I have a scratch to prove it! Ah the abuse I am taking to learn spanish - just kidding!
Spanish school started today. I thought I was going to get lost on my way home after the papa of the familia walked us to school. It was confusing, but low and behold we navigated back to the house successfully at lunch time! Nope I didn´t get lost dad!
My maestra is very nice, and I think I´ll learn a lot. I have a feeling I´ll actually learn more from my host family, but the teacher is nice to learn the grammer and vocabulary!
Well I will try to write more later, but Chris is ready to leave the internet cafe so I don´t have much time! I´ll write down the funny parts because there are MANY of those! I actually can´t stop laughing at some of the things that I´ve said or chris has - like last night chris asked the family if there are penguins in guatemala. Everyone laughed for a long time! It was great!
Alright - until later!
M
Let´s see. I don´t have much time, so I´ll try to summarize the eventual things that happened since I´ve left.
Portland '- came and went extremely quickly. However, 3 weeks in PacNW was hard just because I wanted to get to Guatemala. But I was able to do some really fun things like see downtown portland, meet Chris´family, ride the train solo, and hike S. Sister (third tallest peak in OR). Other than that it was pretty low key, and actually quite nice to relax.
Travel - The airport was an adventure. Portland was just normal, nothing exciting or unusual. I was able to experience Chi town on our 7 hour layover. Now that was an adventure. The subway system there is ANCIENT, I would suggest a few updates for a city so large! Anyway it took 40 minutes to get to a part of the city where we thought would have good deep dish chicago style pizza. Once we arrived and got off at the Clark\Lake stop we found out (after getting lost twice) that we were in the financial district and that the pizza place Giodano´s (I think that´s the name) was closed. So we caught a cab to another one about 2 miles away. The pizza was declicious, but the service was sub-par. Oh well, it was still yummy. We got back to the airport to find out that most security gates are not open at 2am, and that we had to figure out how to get to the international wing when the train only ran every 20-30 minutes and that the doors were stubborn and may or may not open. YES - I was so excited to know that it was going to be so reliable! Anyway we got to the gate, and Chris set his cell phone down, and some kid stole it... later to be returned by the child´s mom on the airplane.
We arrived at Guatemala City, Guatemala and had to go through customs, which is not like all the other customs that I´ve been through. It was much quicker, and if you blinked you might have missed it! They actually check your baggage claim tickets in Guatmala at the airport... so don´t lose those, they are important! We tried to use a pay phone, but it didn´t work! So once we grabbed a taxi I used the little spanish I knew to ask him if I could use his cell phone. He must have understood me because he handed me a phone, and said I could call who I wanted. I should have just called home - ha! Nah, we had to call the familia to let the know when we were going to be there! The taxi ride was long to the bus station, longer than I expected but it was okay. I think the taxi driver took us the long way because I swear there had to be a more direct route, but nonetheless it was cool to see the city that way.
The bus station was small, and just like a hole in the wall where you hand some lady a few bucks for a ticket (that you better not lose), to hand to another guy that gives you a different ticket (which you better not lose that one either), to wait, and wait, and wait, and wait... then you get on the bus and drive like crazy people through the mountains on curvey roads. (Zeke '- you wuld have been so car sick!)
We arrived at the familia de Guatemala´s house by noon thirty and ate lunch with them about 30 minutes later. Then we were able to take a nap, and just relax until dinner time. It had been a long 24 hours of travel. (Oct 10 @ 11a PST to Oct 11@ 1230p MST).
My favorite thing is that my familia´s son -David (he´s a year and half) likes to hit and kick and scratch me. Oh yeah! Making friends right away! Sweet! HAHA! Oh well, he likes me he just also likes to do those things, so I had to tell him NO about 10000 times yesterday! I have a scratch to prove it! Ah the abuse I am taking to learn spanish - just kidding!
Spanish school started today. I thought I was going to get lost on my way home after the papa of the familia walked us to school. It was confusing, but low and behold we navigated back to the house successfully at lunch time! Nope I didn´t get lost dad!
My maestra is very nice, and I think I´ll learn a lot. I have a feeling I´ll actually learn more from my host family, but the teacher is nice to learn the grammer and vocabulary!
Well I will try to write more later, but Chris is ready to leave the internet cafe so I don´t have much time! I´ll write down the funny parts because there are MANY of those! I actually can´t stop laughing at some of the things that I´ve said or chris has - like last night chris asked the family if there are penguins in guatemala. Everyone laughed for a long time! It was great!
Alright - until later!
M
Monday, September 21, 2009
Sister Cities
They say that Denver and Portland are sister cities - I suppose they are not identical twins! HA!
I'm in Portland, and this will be my place of residence for the next few weeks! I wonder what adventures I will have. Went with Katie, Maria, Adriane (boy), and Chris diving yesterday. I had a good time until I hit my stupid head on a tree and now I have a huge bump on it! It made me fall to the ground. I even saw that stupid tree there, how did I run into it!?! Hmm... I suppose I lost my mind for a few seconds!
Well today we're trying to figure out how to go backpacking at South Sister - should be a good time, just figuring out a car to use would be helpful!
(My face is swollen from some cats - not a pretty sight! I hope that I'm not around too many of those in the next month or so! :) )
Well ... that's all for now...
I'm in Portland, and this will be my place of residence for the next few weeks! I wonder what adventures I will have. Went with Katie, Maria, Adriane (boy), and Chris diving yesterday. I had a good time until I hit my stupid head on a tree and now I have a huge bump on it! It made me fall to the ground. I even saw that stupid tree there, how did I run into it!?! Hmm... I suppose I lost my mind for a few seconds!
Well today we're trying to figure out how to go backpacking at South Sister - should be a good time, just figuring out a car to use would be helpful!
(My face is swollen from some cats - not a pretty sight! I hope that I'm not around too many of those in the next month or so! :) )
Well ... that's all for now...
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Bitter-Sweet.
You know I have a bittersweet feeling about only have 8 more days in Denver. I hate to go, but it's time. I will miss this place, but the new adventure will only stimulate more growth and opportunity! (At least that's what I'm telling myself!) I'm sure it will be more fun than I know of, but I gotta tell ya all this change in one year has been interestingly stressful, oh but SO good!
A shout out to all my friends that have encouraged me along the way and helped me get ready for this trip! (Especially Katy Young! Girl you rock! Thanks!!)
A shout out to all my friends that have encouraged me along the way and helped me get ready for this trip! (Especially Katy Young! Girl you rock! Thanks!!)
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
Movin' to Central America!
WOW - it's here!
I know many of you heard me talking earlier this year about moving to Mexico, but a new opportunity came up and I jumped on it! We'll see what this brings - everything happens for a reason - right?!?
Well I'm headed to Xela, Guatemala for Spanish Immersion School. I'll be there probably about 6 weeks or so, and then evaluate the sitatuation and figure out what's next. Maybe stay another few weeks to perfect the spanish, or hit up Honduras for a vacation, or start traveling Central America!
I'll be staying with a host family for the time in Guatemala, and then who knows what! It should be a fun adventure, and for those that know me well - this shouldn't surprise any of you! I mean let's just recall quitting my job to drive to Alaska the next day, or staying an extra week in Honduras... just to name a few!
I suppose that it's time to experience a bit more of the culture, serve a few cool people, and maybe even learn something new about myself!
I'll try to update my blog as much as possible, but who knows when I'll get a chance to hit up a computer!
Off I go!!!
YAY!
Destination: Xela, Guatemala
Date: Oct 10 - November 20, 2009
I know many of you heard me talking earlier this year about moving to Mexico, but a new opportunity came up and I jumped on it! We'll see what this brings - everything happens for a reason - right?!?
Well I'm headed to Xela, Guatemala for Spanish Immersion School. I'll be there probably about 6 weeks or so, and then evaluate the sitatuation and figure out what's next. Maybe stay another few weeks to perfect the spanish, or hit up Honduras for a vacation, or start traveling Central America!
I'll be staying with a host family for the time in Guatemala, and then who knows what! It should be a fun adventure, and for those that know me well - this shouldn't surprise any of you! I mean let's just recall quitting my job to drive to Alaska the next day, or staying an extra week in Honduras... just to name a few!
I suppose that it's time to experience a bit more of the culture, serve a few cool people, and maybe even learn something new about myself!
I'll try to update my blog as much as possible, but who knows when I'll get a chance to hit up a computer!
Off I go!!!
YAY!
Destination: Xela, Guatemala
Date: Oct 10 - November 20, 2009
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
What are your thoughts on God?
Truly- I ask that question and wonder where are we all in our relationship (or lack there of) with God? Who is he to you? What does he mean to you? Why is God important or not to you? I'd love your thoughts.
And what about God and Slavery... What are your thoughts on that? What are we slaves to today in our present day lives? Not as "Americans" as a whole, but you individually... what are you a slave to?
Just curious to learn about you...
And what about God and Slavery... What are your thoughts on that? What are we slaves to today in our present day lives? Not as "Americans" as a whole, but you individually... what are you a slave to?
Just curious to learn about you...
Love the listerine!
Oh my mouth loves Listerine! My gums just say "AHHHH!!!" every time I use it! I think the floss-Listerine combo is pretty much the most amazing feeling I get twice a day! I think that good mouth hygiene is not emphasized enough. So floss and use your Listerine frequently, you may find a new love!
Stupid Fat Americans!
You know the more I am consistent with this (and this is only day 3) the more I realize how much Americans over eat. 1490 calories is not really that bad, and seems to fill me up more these days. Perhaps I'm training my stomach, but why are people starving in the world when the average American probably consumes 2x the amount they need! And this is enough calories for someone working out hard too... I think that Americans should stop being so selfish and greedy and start sharing with the world. I think a lot of our problems would be solved on those two philosophies in place! People - wake up and just be nice! Geez! Is is really that hard? (wow, I just got on a soap box. I try to stay away from publicizing my political soap box, but is sneaks out occasionally. Those that know me well, know I like to talk politics! :))
Today I thought I was hungry, but....
Breakfast: 730a
1 cup Kashi Cereal - 140 Calories
1/2 cup skim milk - 90 calories
1 egg + 1 egg white - 118 calories
1 cup of coffee: 24 calories
Total: 372
Lunch:1200p
1 cup low fat milk: 120 Calories
1 cup LF Cottage cheese: 160 Calories
1 medium tomato: 22 Calories
1 can tuna: 120 calories
celery: 18 Calories
5 strawberries: 20 calories
Total Calories: 460
This was a friggin' huge lunch - I would cut it in half next time! WOW! My belly is aching because it ate too much!!
Snack around 4p
Banana: 90 Calories
2 TBSP PB: 200 Calories
Total: 290
Tonight for Dinner: around 8ish
3 oz Grilled Halibut: 119 Calories
1 large carrot: 30 calories
1 cup rice: 210 calories
Total: 359
Total for the day: 1481
* Did you know: That if you eat a high Glycemic Load Food (like banana's, grapes, mac & cheese, etc...), make sure to eat it with a protein to slow down the rate at which the food is converted to blood sugar.
*Did you know fact #2: Caffeine makes you weak in the long run because it overtaxes your adrenal glands? (Caffeine is only good in it's original source, aspirin.) So think twice before you drink the coffee... That's a personal side note. This may be hard for me, but I think I may give my coffee maker to Missy. Caffeine is just not that important!
Stay tuned for other "Did you know's" that I'm learning as I read this friggin huge book!
No workout today - it's the day off.
Good thing because I need fresh legs for my Volleyball tourney! Whew go Financial Panthers!
(Watch the simpson's episode on youtube if you don't know where "Financial Panthers" comes from...)
I wish I could have done yoga this morning just so I could stretch out my body. I tried to stretch yesterday on my own, but apparently I must suck at stretching, because I couldn't sleep last night the pain was so intense! Hopefully tonight will be better.
The Power of Gum
Yesterday was the second day on only 1490 calories...
You know when you get hungry, try chewing a piece of gum. Virtually no calories, and it helps mask the fact that you're not eating something. Oh the power of gum to trick the human mind! We're such simple creatures, that a stick of gum can trick us! Oh geez...
Yesterday's Meals
Breakfast:
1 cup LF cottage cheese: Calories 160
1 piece of whole wheat flax toast: Calories 120
glass of water
Calories: 280
Lunch:
Turkey Wrap w/tomato, broccoli, banana peppers: Calories: 358
5 strawberries: Calories 24
Total Calories: 382
Snack:
Banana & Peanut butter: Calories: 290
Dinner:
Moroccan Chicken Leftovers: Calories: 508
Water: 145 oz!
(the power of water too... kind of works like gum, but not quite as well)
Total Calories for the day: 1460
Okay ... I'm hungry!!!
You know when you get hungry, try chewing a piece of gum. Virtually no calories, and it helps mask the fact that you're not eating something. Oh the power of gum to trick the human mind! We're such simple creatures, that a stick of gum can trick us! Oh geez...
Yesterday's Meals
Breakfast:
1 cup LF cottage cheese: Calories 160
1 piece of whole wheat flax toast: Calories 120
glass of water
Calories: 280
Lunch:
Turkey Wrap w/tomato, broccoli, banana peppers: Calories: 358
5 strawberries: Calories 24
Total Calories: 382
Snack:
Banana & Peanut butter: Calories: 290
Dinner:
Moroccan Chicken Leftovers: Calories: 508
Water: 145 oz!
(the power of water too... kind of works like gum, but not quite as well)
Total Calories for the day: 1460
Okay ... I'm hungry!!!
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Are you a personal trainer?
That was the question of the evening at the gym. I think that was a compliment from my new friend Justin.
I am starting to wonder if this workout program brings too much attention to me at the gym. I figured a quite corner near the group fit classes at 9p should mask me from the masses; however, I was wrong!
The story continues. I gave Justin a hard time for giving up when I was dripping sweat, AGAIN. Told him not to be a sissy. He said that girls should never see men sweat like that or cry when they are hurting. I told him that I was about to die, so it was an equal trade. Justin had a friend Ori, who was a huge dude. I would imagine he was some sort of basketball player. He mentioned that he doesn't practice at this gym, and plays with other people but came to do some lifting with his buddy. Ori asked me if I was going to have a body like Jillian Michaels, and I told him only if they superimposed my head on her body in some photo shop... He asked what else I was doing to get to my goals, and I said no alcohol for 30 days. He dropped his jaw and said that he would take me out Friday and test my willpower while he and his friends took shots and drank beer in front of me. So... looks like I may have a challenge coming my way, which will be good practice for Honduras!
Day two - two sets of digits... wonder if at day 30 if I'll have 30 new phone numbers? What are the chances!!??
I am starting to wonder if this workout program brings too much attention to me at the gym. I figured a quite corner near the group fit classes at 9p should mask me from the masses; however, I was wrong!
The story continues. I gave Justin a hard time for giving up when I was dripping sweat, AGAIN. Told him not to be a sissy. He said that girls should never see men sweat like that or cry when they are hurting. I told him that I was about to die, so it was an equal trade. Justin had a friend Ori, who was a huge dude. I would imagine he was some sort of basketball player. He mentioned that he doesn't practice at this gym, and plays with other people but came to do some lifting with his buddy. Ori asked me if I was going to have a body like Jillian Michaels, and I told him only if they superimposed my head on her body in some photo shop... He asked what else I was doing to get to my goals, and I said no alcohol for 30 days. He dropped his jaw and said that he would take me out Friday and test my willpower while he and his friends took shots and drank beer in front of me. So... looks like I may have a challenge coming my way, which will be good practice for Honduras!
Day two - two sets of digits... wonder if at day 30 if I'll have 30 new phone numbers? What are the chances!!??
Monday, June 15, 2009
Frankie The Boxer
Who is Frankie you might ask?? I had no idea who these people were before tonight. I find it a crazy night when you go to the gym at 9p! First things first - a shout out to my dear friends Kevin and Jerimee... I saw them leaving when I got there!
I feel as though I should put a warning out there for everyone.... If you do crazy workouts in the gym, even if you're trying to hide in the corner or the fitness room, you better be prepared to have people watching you and people talk to you. I don't mind if people talk with me, but it was pretty funny how many people asked what the heck I was doing. I must have looked like I was going to die, because that's exactly how I felt. I haven't sweat that much in a VERY long time. HOLY COW! Wow I feel great, but also know that the workout kicked my butt, almost to the point that I wanted to puke (sorry there's no good way to say that!). Well day one workout is over. I need some shut eye and off to the gym again at 5am! Wow I can't wait for my day off on Wednesday!
Oh I almost missed the entire point of this blog - Frankie. He's a personal trainer that teaches kickboxing and boxing. He told me to that I have it figured out and have the motivation to do well in his gym and take boxing lessons. He said I should be ready to sweat, but that didn't seem to be a problem for me. So.. he gave me his card and said to call him to schedule something up so I can come in and try out boxing. I was just thinking last week that boxing would be a great full body workout, so... maybe this is an answer to an unrequested prayer!?! Hmmm...
I feel as though I should put a warning out there for everyone.... If you do crazy workouts in the gym, even if you're trying to hide in the corner or the fitness room, you better be prepared to have people watching you and people talk to you. I don't mind if people talk with me, but it was pretty funny how many people asked what the heck I was doing. I must have looked like I was going to die, because that's exactly how I felt. I haven't sweat that much in a VERY long time. HOLY COW! Wow I feel great, but also know that the workout kicked my butt, almost to the point that I wanted to puke (sorry there's no good way to say that!). Well day one workout is over. I need some shut eye and off to the gym again at 5am! Wow I can't wait for my day off on Wednesday!
Oh I almost missed the entire point of this blog - Frankie. He's a personal trainer that teaches kickboxing and boxing. He told me to that I have it figured out and have the motivation to do well in his gym and take boxing lessons. He said I should be ready to sweat, but that didn't seem to be a problem for me. So.. he gave me his card and said to call him to schedule something up so I can come in and try out boxing. I was just thinking last week that boxing would be a great full body workout, so... maybe this is an answer to an unrequested prayer!?! Hmmm...
Making The Cut... Just the beginning
So I met Jillian Michaels...
... and I'm not sure I like her much!
Okay, I didn't really meet her, but I bought her book. She is super intense! What a crazy woman, however, I must be just as crazy for buying the book. I decided to take the challenge of Making the Cut: 30 days of intense workouts, crazy food, and no alcohol!
A few crazy facts: Being 5'7" and 157lbs I am only allowed 1490 calories a day! WHAT!? I could eat that for breakfast... Okay not really, but with as much as I working out that I do... REALLY??? I was hoping for at least 2000!!
Eating - wow this will be tough - I'll write what I eat everyday! Every 4 hours - that's pretty normal for me!
Working out - two-a-days are going to be tough. But the good news is that I have a 2 hour limit. Can't work out more than 2 hours at a time. (That's a good thing I think. Trying to find optimism, however probably wouldn't have made 2 hours any one gym time.)
Sleep - 8 hours every night. She doesn't know me very well does she!
Grocery Store - I hate that place, and I already have to go back, and I went last night. This could teach me to like the Grocery Store.
Measurements - those will be done today before my first workout! Yikes!
Photos - I took a "before", but won't post those until it's over. I'm embarrassed! :/
Today is Day one.
1. Did I sleep 8 hours? - no. I didn't even sleep well. Lame! I wish that I could sleep, but one week and still not sleeping. I'm hitting the bed by 10p tonight!
2. Water - I'm doing well with that since I am only allowed 1490 calories, don't drink anything but water, unless it's milk to get my calcium in for the day!
3. Work out - haven't gone yet, but I looked at it and I'm scared! (And I don't usually get scared to go to the gym!)
Food:
Breakfast: 730a
1 cup Kashi Go-Lean Cereal
1/2 cup skim milk
1 egg and 1 egg white scrambled.
cup of water
Lunch: 1p (This was supposed to happen at 1130. I have to plan better!)
3 slices turkey breast
1 carb control wrap
3/4 cup raw broccoli
1/2 roma tomato
10 banana peppers
1 cup of skim milk.
Snack: 4p
1 medium apple
1/4 cup cashews
Dinner: 730p
Moroccan Chicken w Wild Rice
1 cup Celery
1 cup of milk
Calories for the day: 1479 (Barely MADE THE CUT today!)
WORK OUT:
2 x this w no rest between sets:
Circuit 1:
Dumbbell Press on Body Ball ( 2o reps)
Dumbbell Flys on on Body ball with Crunches (15 reps)
Squats (50 fast no weight)
one minute sprint at 7 mph
Circuit 2:
Plank (hold 10 seconds)
Close Grip Push-up (5 reps)
Side planks with inner Thigh Raise (10 seconds per side)
plank (5 more seconds)
Close Grip Push ups (5)
Side Planks with inner thigh raise (10 seconds per side)
Plank (5 seconds)
Burpies (straight from plank 10 reps)
Sumo Squats (50 reps)
One minute sprint at 7mph
circuit 3:
Frog push ups (20 reps)
Squat Thrusts (20 reps then hold a static squat for 30 seconds)
W shoulder presses with leg extension (10 reps each leg)
jump rope 1 minute
circuit 4:
bench dips (20)
Rope Tricep Presses (perform to muscle failure)
Static Lunges with lateral shoulder raise (10 reps with each leg fwd)
Mountain Climbers (reps for 1 min)
Boat Pose (hold 30 seconds)
Circuit 5:
Jump rope 1 minute
Bicycle crunches (50)
Extended plank (hold 30 seconds)
30 minutes of cardio.
Stretch..
Can we say ouch! 2 sets of that! It's going to probably take me just under 2 hours. Geez woman, what are you doing to me... Right, I am the one who decided to get ripped for swim suit season!
Well one day down... 29 to go.
Until tomorrow...
... and I'm not sure I like her much!
Okay, I didn't really meet her, but I bought her book. She is super intense! What a crazy woman, however, I must be just as crazy for buying the book. I decided to take the challenge of Making the Cut: 30 days of intense workouts, crazy food, and no alcohol!
A few crazy facts: Being 5'7" and 157lbs I am only allowed 1490 calories a day! WHAT!? I could eat that for breakfast... Okay not really, but with as much as I working out that I do... REALLY??? I was hoping for at least 2000!!
Eating - wow this will be tough - I'll write what I eat everyday! Every 4 hours - that's pretty normal for me!
Working out - two-a-days are going to be tough. But the good news is that I have a 2 hour limit. Can't work out more than 2 hours at a time. (That's a good thing I think. Trying to find optimism, however probably wouldn't have made 2 hours any one gym time.)
Sleep - 8 hours every night. She doesn't know me very well does she!
Grocery Store - I hate that place, and I already have to go back, and I went last night. This could teach me to like the Grocery Store.
Measurements - those will be done today before my first workout! Yikes!
Photos - I took a "before", but won't post those until it's over. I'm embarrassed! :/
Today is Day one.
1. Did I sleep 8 hours? - no. I didn't even sleep well. Lame! I wish that I could sleep, but one week and still not sleeping. I'm hitting the bed by 10p tonight!
2. Water - I'm doing well with that since I am only allowed 1490 calories, don't drink anything but water, unless it's milk to get my calcium in for the day!
3. Work out - haven't gone yet, but I looked at it and I'm scared! (And I don't usually get scared to go to the gym!)
Food:
Breakfast: 730a
1 cup Kashi Go-Lean Cereal
1/2 cup skim milk
1 egg and 1 egg white scrambled.
cup of water
Lunch: 1p (This was supposed to happen at 1130. I have to plan better!)
3 slices turkey breast
1 carb control wrap
3/4 cup raw broccoli
1/2 roma tomato
10 banana peppers
1 cup of skim milk.
Snack: 4p
1 medium apple
1/4 cup cashews
Dinner: 730p
Moroccan Chicken w Wild Rice
1 cup Celery
1 cup of milk
Calories for the day: 1479 (Barely MADE THE CUT today!)
WORK OUT:
2 x this w no rest between sets:
Circuit 1:
Dumbbell Press on Body Ball ( 2o reps)
Dumbbell Flys on on Body ball with Crunches (15 reps)
Squats (50 fast no weight)
one minute sprint at 7 mph
Circuit 2:
Plank (hold 10 seconds)
Close Grip Push-up (5 reps)
Side planks with inner Thigh Raise (10 seconds per side)
plank (5 more seconds)
Close Grip Push ups (5)
Side Planks with inner thigh raise (10 seconds per side)
Plank (5 seconds)
Burpies (straight from plank 10 reps)
Sumo Squats (50 reps)
One minute sprint at 7mph
circuit 3:
Frog push ups (20 reps)
Squat Thrusts (20 reps then hold a static squat for 30 seconds)
W shoulder presses with leg extension (10 reps each leg)
jump rope 1 minute
circuit 4:
bench dips (20)
Rope Tricep Presses (perform to muscle failure)
Static Lunges with lateral shoulder raise (10 reps with each leg fwd)
Mountain Climbers (reps for 1 min)
Boat Pose (hold 30 seconds)
Circuit 5:
Jump rope 1 minute
Bicycle crunches (50)
Extended plank (hold 30 seconds)
30 minutes of cardio.
Stretch..
Can we say ouch! 2 sets of that! It's going to probably take me just under 2 hours. Geez woman, what are you doing to me... Right, I am the one who decided to get ripped for swim suit season!
Well one day down... 29 to go.
Until tomorrow...
Thursday, April 23, 2009
They say it comes in threes...but I honestly think it's more like 4 or 5...
I just have to laugh at life... I told myself that I would not be stressing any more, and that I was just going to enjoy life. Honestly, that vow has been going really well. Life is not as stressful, even though the last week has been less than ideal...
1. I clearly have no idea what dating is, nor do I know how to be friends with boys. That's just drama - but in my new perspective. What happened happened, and it's better. Honestly! I couldn't be happier!
2. My cell phone died - people don't believe that - but it died and no phone for most of the weekend. I confess that it makes me mad that people don't believe that I had to get a new phone, but again - things worked out and I got some sleep this weekend! It was good to be pulled away from the phone for once!
3. Flew Solo in Vail - however horrible that sounds to others, it was SO great! I met some new fabulous Boulder friends - Shout out to the Capri! - And had the time of my life at the OAR concert. Met cool new people - Beth and Aaron... I'm so glad I went! (I owe that to you Katy!)
4. Woke up with the worst case of strep throat ever - I've never had the blood blisters before... that was new. The good part of that was that I was a puzzle for the doctor. They didn't know what to think or prescribe to me... therefore that added value! Plus, I got some sleep (finally! I haven't been able to sleep in about 3 weeks, so that was a plus of all that. Still don't feel to hot, but that's okay!)
5. My car got hit this morning... I love car accidents! The good thing about that was that I was able to make some lady laugh even though she hit me! :) Life's too short my friends... WAY too short.
This new mind set has really paid off. People didn't believe that when I said that I was going to make myself immune from stress last Friday, that it would actually work. It's working people! I say you should adopt that same frame of mind... LIFE IS GOOD... even though there are some small pebbles in my way! :)
Okay, off to run (see you know life is good when I say off to run, and am actually happy about it!) 90 minutes here I come!!!
Until the next thought...
1. I clearly have no idea what dating is, nor do I know how to be friends with boys. That's just drama - but in my new perspective. What happened happened, and it's better. Honestly! I couldn't be happier!
2. My cell phone died - people don't believe that - but it died and no phone for most of the weekend. I confess that it makes me mad that people don't believe that I had to get a new phone, but again - things worked out and I got some sleep this weekend! It was good to be pulled away from the phone for once!
3. Flew Solo in Vail - however horrible that sounds to others, it was SO great! I met some new fabulous Boulder friends - Shout out to the Capri! - And had the time of my life at the OAR concert. Met cool new people - Beth and Aaron... I'm so glad I went! (I owe that to you Katy!)
4. Woke up with the worst case of strep throat ever - I've never had the blood blisters before... that was new. The good part of that was that I was a puzzle for the doctor. They didn't know what to think or prescribe to me... therefore that added value! Plus, I got some sleep (finally! I haven't been able to sleep in about 3 weeks, so that was a plus of all that. Still don't feel to hot, but that's okay!)
5. My car got hit this morning... I love car accidents! The good thing about that was that I was able to make some lady laugh even though she hit me! :) Life's too short my friends... WAY too short.
This new mind set has really paid off. People didn't believe that when I said that I was going to make myself immune from stress last Friday, that it would actually work. It's working people! I say you should adopt that same frame of mind... LIFE IS GOOD... even though there are some small pebbles in my way! :)
Okay, off to run (see you know life is good when I say off to run, and am actually happy about it!) 90 minutes here I come!!!
Until the next thought...
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Body Builder Envy
REALLY!?!?!?
...I was in the gym last night and I had probably been there about 1 hour. It was back and bi day... Anyway, I was standing by the free weights doing the preacher bench to work out my amazing biceps, and this body builder guy (it was obvious that he was one) came prancing over... when I say prancing, he might as well have been frolicking through a meadow in a tutu. He came over to me and started talking, it was strange to say the least! He wasn't getting weights, and he wasn't really waiting on my machine... he came to chat. Now, when I'm at the gym I generally don't talk to people I don't know. Not that I wouldn't, but it just is hard to initiate conversation when I'm focused on working out. Therefore, it was sort of peculiar that he approached me as if we were at a bar. Any who, on with the story, he commented on my form and said that I was doing a great job. He then proceeded to tell me about this competition that he was training for last year, and how he had a work out partner to help train. (Note - I did not prompt any continuation in the conversation after the hello and form comment. He decided I asked him about this competition all on his own!) Then he proceeded to see if I had a work out partner (Joanie where were you last night!?!)... oh wait for it.... yes.... here it comes... 9, 10, 11, 12. Phew, I was done. I wiped sweat from my brow, and he kindly began another conversation - "So, do you want to be work out partners?" --- WHAT?! REALLY?! I don't remember even responding to his request to find out if I had one, and I don't remember continuing the conversation. Hmmm... I gave a little chuckle and said that I had a workout partner, but I appreciated the offer. ... Honestly, what the heck does that mean when a body builder asks if you want to be their workout partner? (I'm sure he meant nothing of it, but, OH!, the fun messages one can assume were subliminal.... )
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Stay Tuned
As soon as I get 1 hour of free time.. I will be blogging about the adventures of MEXICO! whew!
I can't even wait!
I can't even wait!
Reality Check
Stress - it's not all it's cracked up to be! Why do I stress and worry about things so much? Even if they are in my control? I suppose the worry and anxiety fuel the stress and then I just lose touch with reality. I get in this awful funk, and then can't get out. I don't know what my problem is... so something has GOT to change! I decided that I no longer will worry or stress today. It's not worth my time, emotions, or energy. I know that it's not just an on-off button, but today is a new day and there is no reason to worry or be stressed!!!
I guess the reality check really came to me last night. I realized that I allowed my stress and exhaustion from the week affect how I responded to people ... and some of those people being kids! I love my Whiz Kid, Ashley, and, unfortunately, she ran away from home (hence the added worry and stress to last nights already stressful day/week). I took her siblings to the Nuggets game last night, and my energy was drained from the day of stress and added worry about Ashley. Rather than investing in the Lexi and Juan, who need just as much love as Ash, I worried and was in a stupid funk all night about Ashley. I suppose it doesn't mean that I can't show concern, but those kids need to see a little ray of sunshine in their day too - especially since they have to go home to all the anxiety and drama around the house...
Therefore - a new found revelation (that I've learned about 10 billion times) - Worry and Stress don't solve my problems, they only make things worse. If I'm in a funk around you - and I'm being stupid - please feel free to remind me of this revelation!
I guess the reality check really came to me last night. I realized that I allowed my stress and exhaustion from the week affect how I responded to people ... and some of those people being kids! I love my Whiz Kid, Ashley, and, unfortunately, she ran away from home (hence the added worry and stress to last nights already stressful day/week). I took her siblings to the Nuggets game last night, and my energy was drained from the day of stress and added worry about Ashley. Rather than investing in the Lexi and Juan, who need just as much love as Ash, I worried and was in a stupid funk all night about Ashley. I suppose it doesn't mean that I can't show concern, but those kids need to see a little ray of sunshine in their day too - especially since they have to go home to all the anxiety and drama around the house...
Therefore - a new found revelation (that I've learned about 10 billion times) - Worry and Stress don't solve my problems, they only make things worse. If I'm in a funk around you - and I'm being stupid - please feel free to remind me of this revelation!
Friday, April 10, 2009
Opening Day...
Just venting... I'm not at the Rockies Home Opener this year... first year missed in a LONG LONG time! I'm mad.
I'll be a halfer in no time...
May 17th is going to come REALLY REALLY fast!
For those that don't know, I was signed up for a half marathon with Whiz Kids tutoring to run 13.1 miles for my student - Ashley Serrano. I love the girl. We've been together for 4+ years, and I figured it's about time I invest a few miles in her future! :) So... here we go.
Yesterday was the beginning of ENJOYING running.
For those that now me well, my philosophy on running has always been - "I only run when being chased, playing ultimate frisbee, or soccer." That's it. Running in my book was worthless, and dumb. I have tried to enjoy running SOOO many times, but do I like it? NOPE! Still didn't....(That is my feeble attempt to like running with the change of words - I would have use "don"t" in the past.) I think I've only enjoyed running a few times in my life, and that was when I was training for triathlons...and that wasn't even that much "fun." I just didn't want to die - so that was good motivation!
To get to the point... yesterday was my first day of actual training. Sure, I train and work out pretty much everyday anyway, but yesterday I mentally prepared myself to run 5 miles. I did it! Believe you me, I actually could have run 10! After about 8 hours of mentally preparing myself for a run, going over how I could make it, my breathing, and of course picking up a good mix of music... I went for a run. I actually felt great, and even ran some hills... What!?! Yep... so I have a little bit of encouragement that I actually will make the 13 miles here in 5 weeks. If I can run 5 now without too much of a problem, then I can do 13 in 5 weeks.
I did get a few strange looks leaving my office in running gear, so maybe I should run later when no one is around. Otherwise... no funny stories. It's just amazing that I actually ENJOYED it!?!?!
Who knew!
For those that don't know, I was signed up for a half marathon with Whiz Kids tutoring to run 13.1 miles for my student - Ashley Serrano. I love the girl. We've been together for 4+ years, and I figured it's about time I invest a few miles in her future! :) So... here we go.
Yesterday was the beginning of ENJOYING running.
For those that now me well, my philosophy on running has always been - "I only run when being chased, playing ultimate frisbee, or soccer." That's it. Running in my book was worthless, and dumb. I have tried to enjoy running SOOO many times, but do I like it? NOPE! Still didn't....(That is my feeble attempt to like running with the change of words - I would have use "don"t" in the past.) I think I've only enjoyed running a few times in my life, and that was when I was training for triathlons...and that wasn't even that much "fun." I just didn't want to die - so that was good motivation!
To get to the point... yesterday was my first day of actual training. Sure, I train and work out pretty much everyday anyway, but yesterday I mentally prepared myself to run 5 miles. I did it! Believe you me, I actually could have run 10! After about 8 hours of mentally preparing myself for a run, going over how I could make it, my breathing, and of course picking up a good mix of music... I went for a run. I actually felt great, and even ran some hills... What!?! Yep... so I have a little bit of encouragement that I actually will make the 13 miles here in 5 weeks. If I can run 5 now without too much of a problem, then I can do 13 in 5 weeks.
I did get a few strange looks leaving my office in running gear, so maybe I should run later when no one is around. Otherwise... no funny stories. It's just amazing that I actually ENJOYED it!?!?!
Who knew!
Friday, January 30, 2009
The Dating Game
Honestly... dating... strange and mysterious to me! I will never understand the art of dating, nor do I have a chance to even perfect it! It's quite annoying really...I think that the underlying point of the dating game is to "read the other person's mind." HOW LAME! If you like a person, why can't people just learn to communicate and talk about that stuff up front? Correct me if I'm wrong, but wouldn't it be a good communication step to do that first thing, rather than learning how to communicate about those things later? Guessing and mind reading is for those amazing people called... Oh wait.. no-one. I think that God is the only one that has that covered! :)
Just a few thoughts!
I suppose the last few months of dating random people has been interesting, educational, and humbling; because, honestly, I obviously have no idea what the heck I'm doing... and I'm 27 years old. You think I would have had some sort of idea by now, wouldn't you?
Well.... perhaps I should be soliciting any and all suggestions on dating - the what to do and what not to do. Comments and suggested welcomed and encouraged!
Plus - dating calendar open and clear for practice! :) (HA!)
Ok. enough of my random thoughts.
Until the next random one comes .... 20 minutes from now.
Just a few thoughts!
I suppose the last few months of dating random people has been interesting, educational, and humbling; because, honestly, I obviously have no idea what the heck I'm doing... and I'm 27 years old. You think I would have had some sort of idea by now, wouldn't you?
Well.... perhaps I should be soliciting any and all suggestions on dating - the what to do and what not to do. Comments and suggested welcomed and encouraged!
Plus - dating calendar open and clear for practice! :) (HA!)
Ok. enough of my random thoughts.
Until the next random one comes .... 20 minutes from now.
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