Friday, April 23, 2010

Getting Cracking on a Better Life!

In the past several weeks, I've decided to really get to the bottom of creating a better life for myself. I've made a lot of changes, and I've already started making decent progress. I can't wait to keep setting new goals and move forward too!

The first big thing is that I got a new job. I hated my old one. When my temp contract ended, I was both distressed about the financial debacle it had put me in, but I was happy that I would never have to look back.

So, my new home away from home is Underwater Adventures Aquarium in the Mall of America. I'm so thrilled to be there so I can share the things in life that really matter to me. I'm oddly passionate about fish, and I love to be able to share that with as many people as possible. Even in my former positions, I was constantly looking at diving videos online or at magazines. This seemed like a natural move for me. The closer to the water, the better!


I've also been in the process of pushing myself physically. Several months ago, I signed up to do the Twin Cities Half Marathon on the fourth of July. I've started running four days a week, and doing a lot of cross training in between.

I found a great program that works up to doing 100 push-ups consecutively. So, I'm adding that to the cross-training as well. I'm sure it will help make my arms and upper body fabulous and strong. I've also been supplementing with some easier yoga poses and other tricks to help get my abs in great shape. I've discovered planks and side planks are great for when you're watching TV. If I'm just sitting there, I might as well just sit there and get a workout too!

While I want to be healthy and lean, I don't want to look sickly. Today I found this article that really assesses the "ideal woman." It contracts the way media images portray women with the way men would like to see women - not as runway models (which are described consistently as "gross runway models"), but more like Victoria's Secret models. Instead of rail thin, they are lean and healthy.
The article is called How Thin is Too Thin?

In memory of my grandparents, my dad and his siblings run a 5K Fun Run/Walk called Stride for Packer Pride. It's a charity event that raises money for students' activity fees in the South St. Paul school district. It's a great event, and it's for a great cause! If you're interested, all the information can be found at Stride for Packer Pride.

As for the rest of my life: I'm still planning my wedding, and I'm getting some other knitting projects done for when my friend's baby is born. When I'm done, I'm sure to have pictures!