Gina's trials and tribulations

Day 12 of the 21 Day Yoga Challenge

2012-01-20T22:20:00.002-05:00

So...on Jan 9, I decided to do Yoga Journal's 21 Day yoga challenge - for 21 consecutive days, I have to do 1 yoga practice, meditate for at least 15 minutes and eat at least one vegetarian meals. So for I've made it to day 12...and still on track.

It's definitely a lot of work, but I know it's worth it in the long run. I've also been trying to incorporate running into my routine...and I change up my yoga practices.

I've also challenged myself to drink at least one juice a day (as a meal replacement), drink at least 64 ounces of water a day and log my calories everyday. All in all I've been able to maintain the 11 lbs that I lost from eating better since December 26 and my 5 day juice cleanse. I think I may do another juice cleanse the beginning of February.

Still going strong with my healthy regiment for 2012.

Day 5 of Juicing...

2012-01-09T10:18:00.002-05:00

So I have made it to day 5...didn't think I could do it...no food (meat, dairy, grains, nuts, etc.) but I did. I guess I have more will power than I thought!

I started gradually juicing last week, and have been only juicing since Thursday. I went to the doctor on Friday and told him about it...I was originally going to juice for 10 days, but he said I shouldn't do it for more than 5. While juicing, I have been doing some moderate exercise. I ran/jogged/walked on Friday for 3 miles and I walked for 12 miles on Saturday! I walked with my neighbor from Yonkers, through Hastings and Dobbs Ferry into Irvington and back! My feet were killing me (and I was hungry) when I got home.

So I'm in the home stretch...if you put your mind to something...you can do it. Yesterday, I helped my neighbor make pancakes...and I didn't have any! That was torture, but I did it.

Tomorrow, I can have food again...I'm going to ease into it...I'm looking forward to having lasagna at my friend's house on Saturday night =)

A new year, a new perspective...

2012-01-05T15:25:00.004-05:00

So, when I last wrote, I was soaking up the rays in Jamaica. Today, it's a balmy 39 degrees...much improved over the last couple of days when it was in the teens!

Today is my first full juicing day. On Christmas eve, I watched the movie, "Fat, Sick and Nearly Dead" by Joe Cross. It totally changed my life!!!! His journey was very dramatic, he juiced (only had juice) for 60 days!!! But he also had medical conditions and alot more excess weight (~100 lbs) than me. 12/26 is the last day I had coffee...today is 1/5 - the tenth day, since I haven't had caffeine. The first 2-5 days were tough...now it's a little bit easier. That's not to say that I'm never going to have coffee again, but I've made a resolution to myself to eat more healthy this year...and forever! This is all about long term sustainability. So, I'm not giving up bacon FOREVER, but...I know that I can't eat it every day like I used to. Maybe once a week, or once every other week...and eat turkey bacon when I can. My goal is to not have a muffin top when I sit down and I'd like to rock a two piece this summer!!!

On 12/26, I weighted 170lbs. After that, I made it a point to eat more healthy and try and drink juice once a day as one meal replacement. I also have been drinking 64-72 ounces of water a day. This morning I stepped on the scale and I now weigh 163.5 lbs. Not bad for 10 days!!!!

I've also tried to amp up my exercise...insert more cardio into the picture. For the past month or so, I've been trying to jog. I would "jog" for l-2 min, then walk, then jog, then walk....I'd go about 1-2 miles, then walk all the way back. On Monday, 1/1/12, I sprinted for 1-2 min, walked, sprinted, walked (4X when my normal was 2 or 3) for 1 mile, then I jogged (the whole time without stopping) back the entire mile home. I was so amped!!!!

On Tuesday, I went to my very first Zumba class, with my friend Yoli. I didn't think I was going to make it. We were "dancing" for a full 60 minutes! We didn't stop and there were NO SLOW SONGS! It was a workout!!! I was totally drenched when I left there...whoa! I may have to look into doing that once a week...or once every other week to change things up.

And the best part...I had a fabulous New Year's...with a great guy! We had a lot of fun...and I hope to have more.

Here's to everyone...Happy New Year, and all the best for 2012!!!

Gosh...I love vacation!

2011-12-20T09:25:00.002-05:00

So...this is coming to you from Negril, Jamaica!!! Where I am chilling with my cousin Melissa (Happy Birthday CUZ!) and enjoying the sun and 80 degree weather! Yesterday we laid by the pool ALL DAY! Drinking, eating and enjoying the view on the cliff side of the town.

Today we have spa appointments at 5pm and dinner reservations in the fancy restaurant at 8pm. I can hardly wait!!!

f-ing hysterical!

2011-12-07T16:51:00.002-05:00

So...I've been crazy busy at work all day in meetings and what not...and I try to send an email...and my inbox is full! ARGH! So, I'm sitting here...going through emails...some I file, some I delete, and some I *finally* have gotten around to reading...

Here's a blog that my friend Laura sent me a link to...OMG...sooooooo our speed! And here was the follow up post...amazing! I think I like the bloggess...I'll have to check in once in a while and see how Copernicus is doing!

Enjoy ;)

new favorite recipe blog

2011-12-06T16:28:00.003-05:00

I came across this recipe as I was looking for things to make for Christmas dinner.

The Smitten Kitchen is a fabulous resource for anyone looking for a new dish to try! I saw a few recipes that I want to try!

Can't wait...I'll let you know how they go!!!

Have your ever heard of a pop up gallery?

2011-12-06T15:03:00.002-05:00

I just learned about this today:
New Museum Fellow Opens Pop-Up Gallery-Invitation to 12/6 Opening
My name is Naomi Huth and I recently started a pop-up gallery. The opening reception for the next exhibition is on December 6th one block from the Brooklyn Museum (845 Classon Ave: 2,3,4 trains to Eastern Pkwy-Brooklyn Museum). I thought that this might be a nice opportunity for people still in NYC to come out and meet other people from this list and also I would love the support. The information is all listed below but the quick rundown is 6 previously vacant storefront windows filled with candy themed artwork (painting, sculpture, photography).
Best,
Naomi Huth

On view from December 6th 2011 through January 3rd 2012, Where Am I gallery takes over a full block of store front windows on Classon Avenue in Prospect Heights, only one block away from the Brooklyn Museum. Food Lust: Shock Candy features works from Craig Kanarick, Claire Lieberman, Martha Rich, and Matt Schwartz. The exhibition will transform six store front windows in the Heart of Brooklyn into an artistic candy land. Bright colors and delicious looking contemporary art will change the nature of window shopping, just in time to offer an interesting contrast to the regular holiday displays.

Food Lust: Shock Candy will have displays of sculptures made of Jell-O, photography of mouthwatering desserts, paintings on vintage recipe books, and Polaroids that will tease your taste buds. Join us on December 6th for an opening reception at 845 Classon Avenue from 6 – 9 pm to discover art that embodies the phrase “look but don’t eat.”

Where Am I is a new pop-up gallery, created by Naomi Huth, that curates exhibitions centralized around a general theme to create an all-encompassing visual experience. As a temporary gallery, Where Am I has no home location, instead occupying the temporarily vacant spaces in New York City, stimulating a new desire for the space and the location. Where Am I uses the art of local New York artists to transform abandoned spaces, and curate public programs and performances that relate to the theme of the exhibition.

Opening Reception: December 6, 2011, 6 – 9 pm
845 Classon Ave (2,3,4 trains to Eastern Pkwy-Brooklyn Museum)
On view through January 3, 2012
Facebook invite: www.facebook.com/events/278545825515579

So I did a little more research and learned this.

I know of a few spaces in Westchester and I emailed Arts Westchester today to see if they know anything about this and/or if they participate in any.

Food for thought

2011-12-05T08:03:00.002-05:00

...but no time to say everything now.

One thing that I wanted to say was I was listening to the radio last week and hear 5 things that people who were dying or thought they were going to die...things they would change.

1) Live life tru to you (the life you want), rather than what other's expect of you.
2) Don't work so hard (won't let life pass you by)
3) Have the courage to express your feelings
4) Stay in touch with friends
5) I wish I would let myself be happier

Good words to live by.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-23T14:48:00.002-05:00

I just wanted to wish everyone out there a very safe and happy Thanksgiving!

I have much to be thankful for.

Best,
Gina

amazing!

2011-11-23T14:46:00.001-05:00

I hope I'm as flexible and active as this 93 year old!

http://www.westchestermagazine.com/Westchester-Magazine/November-2011/Profile-93-Year-Old-Yoga-Master-Tao-Porchon-Lynch-a-Westchester-County-Resident/

God Bless her!

amazing the things that you can correlate to work

2011-11-09T09:22:00.003-05:00

So I belong to a lot of news lists, groups on LinkedIn, etc. and I read this article this morning...

http://www.geekwire.com/2011/top-10-reasons-darth-vader-amazing-project-manager

Pretty cool huh!?

Since getting my PMP in August, I've been trying to stay on top of things. I have to earn 60 PDU's over the course of the next 3 years...this includes taking classes, listening to podcasts (self learning) and creating/teaching new material. I'm working with my Project Management Society at work to get through this.

Any other interesting articles or tips out there that you want to share?

Art is you...Danbury

2011-10-03T10:36:00.002-05:00

I'm very excited to be going to this event...I just registered for Richard Salley's class on Tuesday - Flaming heart pendant.

Are you going???

selling your artwork online...

2011-10-03T10:33:00.002-05:00

I wonder if anyone (who reads my blog) has put anything up on this site and how well do you do? Is there a lot of traffic?

I'm debating...I have some images that I'd like to put out there...

Thanks for your input.

Vamp purse!

2011-09-28T14:36:00.001-05:00

How cool is this purse?

I so want one...now if only I had an iPhone 4!

Free e-book

2011-09-27T15:02:00.003-05:00

I just finished reading this e-book by Seth Godin called "What Matters Now".

http://sethgodin.typepad.com/files/what-matters-now-1.pdf

It's really a great collection of quotes, comments and reflections that really deserve some time to be digested.

Just wanted to share...please pass it along!

another season done...

2011-09-26T07:11:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was the last day of NYRF (New York Renaissance Faire) in Tuxedo, NY. It was my 13th year working there...my 11th year doing henna! I can't believe that so much time has passed. Some things have changed and some things have stayed the same...

As for my opinion...I'm glad that my stint of working 7 days a week are done...I'm so tired...and not tired from working hard (not that I don't work hard) but, the heat, humidity and rain can be exhausting!

Now...back to other things ;)

My dad's book...

2011-09-26T07:05:00.003-05:00

Just letting everyone know again that my dad's book is now available, 4th edition, and today is the last day for 15% off coupon (code: oktoberfest305).

http://www.lulu.com/product/file-download/the-callenders-from-barbados-to-america-and-in-between-4th-edition/16440470?productTrackingContext=search_results/search_shelf/center/1

Thanks for looking!

I'm not a PIMP...I'm a PMP!

2011-08-25T07:12:00.001-05:00

I'm super excited to say...that I passed my Project Management Professional test...so I am officially a PMP! WOOT!!!

Beadfest

2011-08-22T07:07:00.003-05:00

I had another fabulous weekend at BEADFEST! I went for the first time in the Spring...and now this summer...I took 4 classes!! See my other blog for more info (and pictures) of things that I made!

I love making things!

My dad's book...

2011-08-22T07:05:00.002-05:00

In case anyone is interested in a good true story...check out my dad's book.

He's super excited out this new addition...more information from our family in Scotland.

Solstice in Times Square

2011-06-22T07:05:00.001-05:00

Yesterday I participated in my third Solstice in Times Square event. This year, there was over 8,000 people that practiced yoga in Times Square between Broadway & 7th Ave and 46th and 48th Streets. It was amazing!!!

Thursday - 6/23/11

2011-06-20T10:24:00.003-05:00

This Thursday, come see me in the Red Moon Event presented by
Bellyqueen starring Kaeshi Chai and Jie Jie Yang.

Come join us for a night of Chinese Belly Dancing!!! It's not often seen, so come check it out!!!

Interesting concept

2011-05-24T16:06:00.003-05:00

Last night I had the pleasure of attending the Centennial Rededication of the New York Public Library. Barbara Walters opened the evening for us...Mayor Bloomberg did the rededication. There were hosts of people in the audience including four writers that shared some memories of the NYPL and the highlight for me was a reading by Toni Morrison.

We were serenaded by five different musical delights including the Abyssinian Baptist Church Gospel Choir, the NYC Gay Men's Choir and the PS22 Chorus.

After the dedication, we had a sit down dinner...picnic style. Small portions of various delicacies were passed from guest to guest, such as a medley of fresh mixed vegetables to chicken with a tarragon sauce to a lobster and apple salad.

I spent the better part of the evening chatting with Howard Dobson, Executive Director of the Schomberg Center and Carol Alexander, Executive Director of the Ritz Theater and Museum in Jacksonville, FL. And the kicker is that they have a mutual friend who threw herself a fabulous three part birthday bash...the last of which was in Palm Coast, FL at the Yacht Club! And Grandpa Billy is there because he was invited and knows their mutual friend, Jacqui Davis! What a small world!!!

Carol and I spoke about many different things, one of which was ethnic cultures...and how people identify with theirs. She mentioned that she thought I was Filipino (I get that a lot) and I told her that my dad wrote a book is about his family history. She said I should write one about the "new world". People today are often of mixed races...and she was encouraging me to tell my story just as my dad has told his.

Food for thought, huh?

New Friends...new faires...it's all good!

2011-05-24T10:08:00.002-05:00

So I just finished up my 5 weekend run at CTRF - Robinhood Springtime Festival in Guilford, CT. While I was there, I had the pleasure of being placed next to a wonderful harpist, Kathleen Finnegan! As the weeks passed, I was able to get to know her, her husband Bret, and her children. They were a fantastic bunch that loved to come by, chat, get some henna, and just get to know one another. I have to say that I'm happy to have gotten to know them. We've been o the same circuit for a few years, but never "knew" one another.

It really was a pleasure to just sit back some days and listen to the lovely sounds of the harp. I've always appreciated live music and am just enthralled by people talented enough to play musical instruments.

Being that this faire this year, also exposed me to the possibility of working at another faire - Midsummer Fantasy Renaissance Fair in Ansonia, CT. It's three weekends long, but I'm only doing the middle one (June 25-26) as a trial. Depending on how it goes, I may pick it up next year for the full run.

Also, I gave a few pieces of my jewelry to Pacita and Dan to try and sell for me at the The Steam Punk World's Fair. I haven't heard from them yet (it was this past weekend) and I'm curious if they sold anything.

Anyway...that's a quick update on what's been going on with me the past few months. I hope all is well with everyone.

God bless America!

2011-05-09T11:56:00.003-05:00

With all the excitement going on in the Middle East, it is never easy to see people you know and love going there. I have a friend in the Marines that is being shipped to Afghanistan. Here is a clip from a news broadcast about it. My friend Matt is featured around 1:18 in the video.

I thank God everyday that there are men and women in our armed forces that are willing to put their lives on the line to ensure our country's safety. Thank you to all of you...the American people do appreciate it...even if we don't always so say.

Thank you,
GTC

For my foodie friends...

2011-05-03T15:42:00.002-05:00

You have to visit my Yelp page!! I just put up some reviews from the spots I dined at over the weekend in New England...yum!!! I love eating! And I love talking about the awesome food that I ate and it's especially good to eat with great friends. It's a fantastic combination!!!

yoga...I need to embrace you...

2011-05-03T10:59:00.002-05:00

I have been remiss in my yoga practice and I feel quite guilty. I know I need to make time to do it, I just have been so stressed out with work recently that my head is just not in it. I need to make a promise to myself to try and incorporate it back into my life. I felt so much better when I was regularly practicing.

To hopefully help me get back into the swing of things, I've signed up for Wanderlust - Yoga in the City on June 7th at 6pm. If you're available, you should try and come on out. I know I'm looking forward to it.

Namaste!

Numerology - Does this sound like me?

2011-03-21T18:27:00.000-05:00

OVERVIEW

You're primarily a person with strong 'people' type energy. You're devoted to giving generously to others, helping them in their various endeavors, spending time with those less fortunate than yourself or working in one of the many helping or healing professions. Because you are usually so benevolent and so flexible, you may well be a pushover for those with strong and urgent needs of their own. During your early years, although you may not be fully aware of it at the time, you may often be ill-treated by relatives and friends who take advantage of your giving nature. Much of your youth and young adulthood will probably be spent learning to take better care of yourself and your own needs.

Although there are other aspects to your character, these aspects are likely to exert considerably less influence than your 'people' type energy. If there are any strong differences between your 'people' type traits and the other aspects of your energy, the 'people' characteristics tend to be expressed.

Your potential for spiritual awareness may be a lesser aspect, but it may still be of considerable interest to you -- although many people with this energy aren't even aware of the special gift they possess. If you do choose to exercise this ability, you may be able to act as a conduit for special spiritual understanding. Your spiritual side may be relatively weak when you're young but may assume more importance in your life from your early thirties on.

YOUR EXTREMELY SENSITIVE, EXTREMELY GENEROUS NATURE -- AND YOUR VERY LIMITED REWARDS

Your 9 Life Path, 2 Expression And 9 Birthday

You have an innate love of your fellow man. You probably enjoy people as individuals and, at the same time, have a marked concern for humanity in general. You may involve yourself in philanthropic or humanitarian activities. One of your major lessons in life is to learn to give of yourself as selflessly as possible, without thought of reward or return. As you can well imagine, this is a difficult lesson to put into practice. Much of your effort may be spent in learning to balance your personal needs and ambitions, however large or small, against your inborn desire to contribute to those in need.

You are a very sensitive person with an extreme awareness of your own and others' feelings. Because you are so touched by the subtleties of everyone's emotions, you can understand a great deal from a word, a gesture or even an unspoken thought. Others will recognize this sensitivity and turn to you for the support and understanding you can provide. With this ability, you may choose to work with groups of people where your diplomatic approach and sensitivity can be of much help. Although you may become hurt or resentful in your younger years because of your unusual sensitivity, you will probably learn to use your responsiveness for your own and others' benefit.

YOUR SPIRITUAL AWARENESS -- AND YOUR OCCASIONALLY UNCLEAR VIEW OF REALITY

Your 11 Expression

Your potential for spiritual awareness is present along with your other traits. This special energy isn't available to most people. Many, though, who have this potential aren't ever fully aware of it or, in many cases, become familiar with it only when they're in their thirties or older. If you choose to develop your spiritual side, this energy may play an important role in your life.

When you use your spiritual awareness, you probably intuitively perceive a great deal about the non-material world -- and religious, psychic or metaphysical forces. Other people will see your ability to act as a channel for these awarenesses. You may receive some recognition for your efforts when you transmit your unique knowledge and increased perception of the deepest truths to others. You may want to devote yourself to a career in which these spiritual forces play an important role.

I love making jewelry...and am having a blast!!!

2011-03-21T14:05:00.004-05:00

I'm super excited about some upcoming workshops that I'm taking!

In addition to the 15 week Jewelry I class that I'm taking (for the third time - not that I don't "get" it, but I felt like I haven't learned all that I can learn from my fav teacher) at the 92Y, I also signed up to take 3 workshops at the Beadfest event on April 7-10 in King of Prussia, PA! I got an email today from one of the instructors on things to bring with me to class...I can't wait!!!

I'm looking forward to having fun taking these workshops, and then using this knowledge to enhance my current working knowledge...so many possibilities.

3 more weeks!!! Whoo hoo!!!!

Procrastination...

2011-03-06T16:47:00.004-05:00

...is my middle name! It's not totally all my fault. I've been working crazy hours and on multiple projects! Not to mention that I'm kinda back in school...I'm in a Project Management course...17 weeks...at the end I'll have a Certificate in Comprehensive Project Management from the University of Stony Brook. Of course, along with that, is homework, quizzes, a midterm, midterm project and final. At the end, there's a prep course for the PMP test.

Then there's the project that I just can't seem to start...I have the words done and the main idea for the project laid out, but I can't seem to put ink to paper!!! I'm hoping to use this as inspiration, but I'm just not motivated.

Then there's the problem that my mind goes a mile a minute and I can't seem to catch up at times...thinking about the homework that I need to do...all the books that I'm reading at one time...the two that stand out at the moment are "Jane Eyre" and "The Four Hour Work Week"...along with what am I going to make to go along with the salmon that I'm having for dinner and should I take this Samuri sword class?

Gosh! I'm pooped just thinking about my to do list! But I know...I've got to get off my rump and start somewhere, right?

Hope you'all are more productive than me out there!!!

4 more days...

2011-03-06T15:22:00.003-05:00

until I'm in Las Vegas =) It'll be cool as I'll be seeing friends that I haven't seen in forever and meeting ones for the first time. I'm super excited...it's always nice to get away and fun to have new adventures!!

Some things that I'm planning:
1) All you can eat buffet at Bellagio...OMG the best thing for a foodie!!!
2) time with friends...should be # 1, but I'm hungry at the moment, so they got bumped lol!
3) shopping!
4) enjoying the 70 degree weather by spending time at the pool and working on my tan! lol!

whoo hoo!!! Can't wait...I love me some vacation!!!

Twin Oaks

2011-02-23T12:28:00.002-05:00

So, I forgot to mention that while I was up at Sutton...enjoying myself snowboarding, Dean Baker had mentioned that 2 artists, twins - Ryan and Trevor Oaks, was working on a project at the top of lifts of the mountain.

On the bus ride back home, I got the opportunity to see the drawing...a lovely scene looking down the mountain from where they were stationed. Well...that was a lovely piece, but didn't prepare me for what I was going to see when I checked out their website.

WOW...these are some talented guys.

Great job! I can't wait to see more of your work.

Fabulous to get away...

2011-02-23T11:46:00.004-05:00

I just came back from vacation...my 2 vacations that is! First I was off to a Bellydance cruise, organized by Hip Expressions (thanks guys for a great time!!!), that left Tampa and went to the Grand Cayman Islands and Cozumel, Mexico! I had never been to either of those islands and it was outstanding. First, the people I was with were fantastic, some old friends and I made some new ones! I took bellydance and several drum classes and got to use what I learned in our sing-a-longs and hallway gihad jams!!! Thanks Carmine for the emergency hafla jam card...it will come in handy!

I think the highlight for me was when I was swimming with dolphins in Mexico! I was a little apprehensive at first, the things are nearly 500lbs and more, but it turned out to be really fun!!!

Then I came back to 60 degree weather in NY! It was only slightly cooler than where I had just left! To the later get on a bus to Mont Sutton! It was a bit of a shock, but I had an 8+ hr bus ride to get acclimated. It was an awesome 4 days snowboarding up there. This is my 7th trip on the Cooper Union Alumni Ski Trip (and no I didn't go to Cooper). Going there is like going home! I've only been back one day and I miss it already!

Ah...now back to the grind!

I am so ready...

2011-02-01T14:52:00.002-05:00

I am 10 days away from being on vacation...I can't wait! And...God willing...the weather will be outstanding and I can briefly forget about snow, ice, sleet and freezing rain!!!

It can't come quickly enough for me!

Be safe if you're out and about today.

More about the blood type diet

2011-01-25T12:39:00.004-05:00

So I've been reading some more articles to see if this is something that I should seriously be looking into.

And here is another one about my blood type O. And this one shows a list of recipes for my type...I'll have to remember this one.

ok...back to what I was doing...it just on my mind, so I had to look at it for a minute. I'll come back to it eventually. On another note, I made a point to eating chicken with rice and peas yesterday...I *almost* made pasta and then thought better of it.

trying to eat right...

2011-01-24T12:34:00.002-05:00

I struggle with trying to eat right because I love to eat...well...EVERYTHING. I was having a conversation last night with a friend, who is starting to look into the Blood Type Diet. Now I know someone else who has done this...and for many years struggled with why they were always sick or sickly...and it was because she was eating the wrong types of foods for her blood type. Once she stopped eating what her body couldn't absorb, so felt the results almost instantaneously. Now...recently, last few months, I've had this nagging congestion...it comes and goes and I haven't gone to the doctor for it specifically. When I was at the doctor's a few months ago, of course, there were no symptoms.

So, I decided to start reading up on this. I'm blood type O+...reading a few articles, I found this, a food list of what's beneficial for my blood type. Of course half the foods I love are in the "avoid" column. ARGH...the question becomes...do I seriously try and do this for 80-90% of the time and just relax on the rest when it's special occasions or holidays?

Suggestions, ideas?

on a related note...

2011-01-18T09:41:00.000-05:00

I feel like this sometimes...

"Dilbert" doing yoga

2011-01-18T09:27:00.002-05:00

**WARNING** If you don't have a sense of humor, please DO NOT read...you WILL BE OFFENDED!

I read this blog post today by Scott Adams, aka the creator of Dilbert, about his first experience with yoga...it's a hoot!! I was laughing my head off!

I hope you enjoy it.

G

Tonight...PRINCE!

2011-01-18T09:02:00.001-05:00

I am super excited to be seeing Prince in concert tonight at Madison Square Garden!!!! The show starts tonight at 7:30pm!! WHOO HOO!!!!

That is all =)

good books

2011-01-05T16:36:00.002-05:00

I recently got a few book recommendations, so I decided to update my book list. This is also a link on my page on the right..."Gina's Goodreads".

So...any other good ones out there that I need to add to my list? Something that you read that made you want to go out and do that "thing" (make some dish, visit a friend, create some art), "get busy" or "go on vacation". PLEASE SHARE =)

Thanks =)

To juice or not to juice...

2011-01-04T16:27:00.004-05:00

Happy New Year! So it's 2011...and like most people...I'd like to start the year out with a bright outlook...get back into exercising and eating right (especially after my glutenous shenanigans from over the holidays). So to jump start this...
I've hear a lot of people try this juice cleanse thing...anyone out there try it? AND actually liked (well maybe like is not the word...) could bear doing it again?

The two that I have narrowed it down to are:

The BluePrintCleanse - $60/day

The CoolerCleanse - $58/day

So...price wise...they are roughly the same...and you typically do a cleanse for 3 days (min). so...what do you think?? I'd love to hear what you think.

Thanks...

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

2010-12-30T16:06:00.002-05:00

Another year has come and gone and boy has it been eventful! Travels to distance places (this year was Sevilla & Madrid, Spain as well as London, England and Orlando, Tampa and Palm Coast, FL)...right now I'm in CA visiting family...some of who I haven't seen in over 10 years! I came with my mom and am visiting with my Aunt Rizalina (lives in Lincoln with my cousin Rose), my Uncle Henry (from Hawaii), my aunt and uncle Juanito (from the Philippines) and all of their kids (Rose, Claire, Apollo, Vivian and their husbands/wives and children). I think I've seen over 30 relatives since I've been here! It's been awesome! I was in San Francisco for the day on Monday...and now I'm in Lincoln (close to Sacramento).

And I have some adventures already planned for 2011 already! In February, I'm going on a cruise for my friend's 40th birthday...we leave out of Tampa and go to Cozumel and Grand Cayman Islands on a cruise. Can't wait =)

There is so much that I have that I am thankful for...I just want to say that I'm thankful for all the family and friends that I have in my life! Good health and success for 2011!

Much love,
Gina

Drumming in NYC

2010-11-12T14:43:00.001-05:00

Hi all,
I just wanted to let you know that I'm drumming in the city on Saturday night...8pm to midnight.

http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=164977980198245

See the above announcement for the details. COME ON OUT!!!

G

2010-10-08T09:50:00.004-05:00

Hi everyone,
Thanks so much for your advise and counsel…I was dreading it at first…and went to a couple of stores, before I settled on one. The winner…Bronx River Bike Works…the whole process took 1.5 hrs (well…there was a whole history lesson associated with it – great for a follow up story), but I’m happy.

This is what I ended up with:
http://www.khsbicycles.com/07_brentwood_l_10.htm

KHS' Women's Brentwood is great for biking around the city and paths in comfort and style. It has a nimble, light steel frame, a natural upright riding position for a commanding view of the road and a soft seat on a suspension seatpost so you'll float over the bumps. You'll also love the easy-pedaling 700c wheels and the great 21-speed Shimano drivetrain that lets you cruise right over hills.
(http://basicallybicycles.com/product/khs-womens-brentwood-63024-1.htm)

For the bike, lock, and lights it came to $440 with tax.

I’m picking it up tomorrow. The guy, an older guy who lives there, greases the whole thing, added new petals with toe clips (it was easy in and out) and is upgrading the tires for me and mounting my rear and front lights. Yesterday he adjusted the seat and handle bars for me. It feels good (I was worried about my a$$ hurting) and it’ll help pay his rent! He said if anything happens, come back and he’ll take care of it. I’m happy about the whole experience and am looking forward to picking it up.

Happy biking =)
G

update

2010-10-01T14:11:00.002-05:00

Howdy all,
I just wanted to drop a note to let you know that I'm doing henna at the Medieval Festival at Fort Tryon Park (the Cloisters) on Sunday, 10/3, 11:30am-6pm. Please come on out! Check out my Henna Blog for more details.

Also, I should have some updates soon...I just started my 15 week jewelry class last week! I'm so psyched!!!!

Stay tuned!

G

activity...

2010-09-10T14:08:00.001-05:00

I know it's been awhile...things have been crazy. I've been working crazy hours and eating out a lot...see my yelp page =)

But seriously, things are good...life is good. I'm happy...

So I hope to post more in the future...I'm doing a lot, so I should share...

I'll get to it...promise.

Be well everyone.

To tumblr or not to tumblr?

2010-06-30T07:24:00.003-05:00

So...I've been trying to decide if it's worth it for me to invest time in Tweeting...but now I found out about a new, hip, up and coming social networking site...Tumblr...it's a blog that's about networking...should I opt to do that?

Opinions??

Update...

2010-05-25T14:29:00.001-05:00

Hi everyone!

Just letting you know that I may be drumming in an event on Friday, June 11th. Details to follow.

Also, if you are a yoga lover like I am, you'll want to enter to try and win a spot in this AWESOME yoga event in Central Park on June 22 at 6pm.

Hope to you'll soon!

Another show!

2010-05-13T07:25:00.001-05:00

So...just updating y'all that I'll be drumming this Saturday night, 8pm, at the Dragon's Egg in Mystic, CT in the PURE show.

Hope you can make it out!!!

Saturday's cancelled

2010-04-22T06:43:00.001-05:00

Just wanted everyone know that we're not drumming on Satuday in Staten Island...the gig's been cancelled.

But...there are 2 performances on Sunday. 5pm and 7pm...so please try and come out.

Thanks for your support!

Gina

Drumming events coming up...

2010-04-14T07:37:00.001-05:00

I know I mentioned the St. George's Festival, but I'm also drumming in the PURE reflections show on 4/25 in the 5pm and 7pm shows...

On Saturday, 4/24, we’re playing for Manhattan Tribal in a parade in the St. George’s Festival…
http://www.etgstores.com/bookcafe/stgeorgeday.html#musicanddance2

On Sunday, 4/25, in a 5pm and 7pm show…
http://www.purenyc.org/

Hope you can make it out to one of these!!

drum, drum, drumming...

2010-03-22T09:09:00.002-05:00

Just letting you'all know that I'll be drumming in the St. George's Festival on April 24, 2010 in Staten Island. Belly Groove, our band, is playing for Manhattan Tribal!

How cool is that!

Please come out and support us!

Thanks =)

relaxation to the max...

2010-03-14T18:41:00.003-05:00

can I say that alcohol is good =)

I am feeling so good right now!! I am having vodka tonics waiting for a boy...why am I always the one waiting...

The good news...I got a free mani today at Dashing Divas...part of a promotional advertising event from Kristy Allen's the Big Life! Very cool...10 min wait...free mani and free nail polish...they are open today until 9pm!

And...had a productive drum lesson...Kashlimar...learned some new variations...

DDD D Dt

Dt Dt ttt

Dt D Dt

Dtk Dtk Dtt tk

I've got to practice!!!!

Lazy Saturday

2010-03-13T22:28:00.002-05:00

So today...I did a lot of nothing =) That hardly ever comes out of my mouth!! I'd say I got about 12+ hrs of sleep...something I haven't had the luxury of in a few weeks...followed by a lovely breakfast of cheese grits, over easy eggs and bacon...with a side of coffee. Then I read a little of my book...watched a few movies...made some jewelry...and now I'm about to go read a little more...then off to bed with me =)

It's nice to recharge the battery once in a while.

Hope you had a fantastic day!

Honestly!

2010-03-10T22:19:00.004-05:00

Where does the time go?

I swear I just sat down at this computer...well...maybe it was an hour and a half ago, but it's felt like 10 minutes!

This seems to be the theme of the week...well month...I mean...come on...it's March already! I remember it just being Christmas and New Year's and today it was 50 degrees! It's so true what they say...the older you get, the quicker time passes. Remember being a kid, and thinking that summer would NEVER get here! Ha! That's a thing of the past.

So I have to say...I'm loving Manager Tools...brought to my attention by Brad after my drum class on Sunday. At first, I was a little skeptical. It's a series of podcasts and a blog on management tips. It has a very structured format and after listening to a half dozen or so over the past 3 days...I have to say that I am digging it. I'm actually read a few management books right now...and they all have a different flavor, but I have noticed that they converge...which is great! It means there are many different paths, that could result in positive productive behavior...so here's to hoping *keeping fingers crossed*.

In any case, I'll have a plan soon. I went to a business volunteers of the arts meeting at the Arts and Business Council on Monday...and met some lovely ladies from DB that specialize in management training, team building and development plans...all things that I need to work on. So I had a coaching session today, for an hour and I should start to lay out my plan after I get some feedback on Friday.

It's just funny how things interconnect, despite them not having any similarities.

so much to do...

2010-02-27T22:07:00.004-05:00

There is so much that I want to do...it almost seems like there's not enough time in the world to accomplish it all =) In any case, I can only do one thing at a time...so...just to update you on a few things...

I love making jewelry! I made a necklace and earring set for my mom for her birthday and she LOVED it =) that made me really happy because she's so hard to shop for...so now I know what I can do for her!

So...I took a PMC (precious metal clay) workshop and loved it! I made 2 pendants, a ring and 2 charms...from one 25g package! It was cool...I was pumped because I looked into it before I went...and had an idea for what I wanted to do...so it all worked out!

PMC lotus pendant with cubic zirconium

PMC ring - texture from a sea urchin

So...I'm looking into taking the next workshop in April.

And...since I've been dating a celiac, I've been cooking wheat free...and I have to say...I made the best off the hook stew a couple of weeks ago...Pork and Apple Stew that I saw on a Bon Appetit magazine! This week...I'm thinking of making him some stir fry...BUT...do you KNOW how hard it is to fine soy sauce with no WHEAT in it...nearly impossible...EXCEPT...if you ask your dad who make Chinese food...he recommended "Thick Soy Sauce" which is what the restaurants use...no wheat...so...when I saw my parent's today for my mom's birthday...I asked if we could go to the Chinese market...so I got some...and some wheat free oyster sauce, fish sauce, chili paste and bean paste...I am all ready!

Anyway, I'm excited because tomorrow I'm going to Home Depot with some friends and I'm going to get new faucets for my shower!!! Getting new stuff for the house is always fun!

G'night!!

This and that...

2010-02-09T15:17:00.003-05:00

It has been quite a long time since I rambled in this space =)

Work is going well...there are a few bumps in the road, but I didn't take it because it was going to be easy. I like a challenge, and this is certainly that.

Drumming is going well...have been playing/practicing on and off for a few months. Got a bit energized last week after 2 classes...and I just took a class with Brad on Sunday. It's looking good...I want to have fun playing again!

Yoga...is coming along. I hadn't practiced in a while, but then have been going for the past couple of weeks. I like how it makes me feel...so I am trying my very best to continue to go...at least once a week for now, but hopefully I can ramp that up soon.

Jewelry making...it had become a passion in the fall/winter. I made tons of gifts for people this past Christmas and I'm having a lot of fun with it. There's so much I want to do...I'm taking a PMC (Precious Metal Clay) class next week! Will post more about that later!

Love life...I usually don't like to say much about this area...because...I'll jinx it, or something, but...I'm liking the situation I'm in right now...and I want to see where it will go =) I'll leave it at that!

um...I think that's it for now. I have some updates for my 2010 shows on my henna blog...so check that out!

drumming...

2009-11-12T23:36:00.002-05:00

The more I'm exposed to new sounds, songs and people drumming...the more I fall in love! I've spent a good part of today just listening to different people playing the doumbek on youtube...

I found this cool blog...

http://www.darbukaplayer.com/

who also has online tutorials...

http://www.fingersoffury.com.au/

this band...

http://www.bassnectar.net/2009/05/los-angeles-ca-2009-05-29/

and if you just type in "doumbek drum solo" into youtube...you'll be amazed by the things you'll see!!!

yoga

2009-11-12T16:28:00.002-05:00

I haven't had the chance to go yet, but when I'm visiting my grandfather, I like to do yoga with Aradhika at her studio.

http://www.aradhikas.com/

If you're in the area, you should check her out!

2009-11-12T16:22:00.002-05:00

relaxing...I'm loving it =)

I'm in FL visiting my grandfather for a few days and it's been totally relaxing! It's a little chilly right now...in the 50's, but it should be warming up as the weekend creeps forward...I think it's suppose to be about 80 on Saturday!

I'm catching up on a lot of things...visiting with my grandfather...getting more sleep...catching up on my reading...I brought 4 books with me...I've been switching between 2...it's nice to just be...nothing planned...except what to have for dinner =)

I hope everyone is enjoying their week.

Where did October go?

2009-11-09T23:31:00.002-05:00

You know...it's funny where the time goes...you take it for granted and the next thing you know you are in another month!!!

So here we are...practically in December (when I start my new job btw....12/1) and I can't even think about what happened to Oct.

A few highlights that I can remember between then and now...

1) Russ and Jan got married...10/3/09! It was a beautiful ceremony...and if you are on my Facebook you can see pics there.

2) It rained...ALOT. So much so that I'm considering my choices of faires for next year. To start off...I'm going to inquire about vending at Spring Caravan and see where it goes from there.

3) ALOT of drumming...well...not as much as I would like, but I was asked my Luis to join him in a troupe that will drum for Manhattan Tribal. I am super excited about that. I had rehearsal this past Saturday and got homework! It's cool...it's just been a while.

4) Carmina and Bradina...you have to know that context...and if you did...enough said =)

5) SLEEP...I was a little sick...I think I was run down from working 7 days a week for 3 months and it all just hit me. So at the end of the month I had an opportunity to do NOTHING and get some sleep. It was quite refreshing!

6) I got a new job, and I'm transitioning out of my old one...and I'm super excited to becoming a manager!!!! I can't believe I'm going to be responsible for 64 people!

7) Because I have a new job...and it comes with more responsibility...I'm looking to move closer...so that means...decluttering my place...trying to sell my place...and looking to buy another place....WOW is this a lot of work!

8) I'm taking a jewelry making class and LOVING it! I need to take pics of my work and post them up! It's very exciting!

9) I taught a C&I workshop in LI and it was super fun! I think it was a good balance between lecture, hands on and Q&A...yeah =)

ok...I think that's a good update for now...I'll try and do another one soon.

For the month of Oct...

2009-09-30T15:23:00.001-05:00

I was thinking about doing this...

Eat-Sweat-Blog

What do people think???

Donation yoga

2009-09-30T15:02:00.002-05:00

I saw this before and just saw it again...must be a sign that I need to go...

Yoga to the People

P.S.

2009-09-30T14:32:00.002-05:00

I forgot to mention that I was asked to join a drum project!!!! A friend of a friend plays purcussion for a few projects and asked me to join the one for "Manhattan Tribal"...I'm waiting to see the music, but it's exciting!!! The have gigs every month to every other month depending on the month...so it's doable!

I'm excited =)

Free Yoga

2009-09-30T14:27:00.002-05:00

Hi all,
I know I haven't blogged about yoga in a while...to be honest, I've been kinda out of it for a while. I want to get back into the swing of things, but it's been difficult. Actually the last 3 days of the NYRF, I actually "taught" yoga in Mystic's Way with 2-3 other people. It was only about 35-45min, but it was so much fun! I really enjoyed it and the people that participated liked it! It's kinda inspired me to keep with it. I have things that I need to complete and finish first, but I definitely want to get back to all of it.

In any case...this brought me to today's post...I came across a blog that advertised free yoga in different states. If you're around and can participate in any of these, let me know how it went.

Have a great day (it is HUMP day after all!)

=)

just a couple of pics...

2009-09-23T10:31:00.004-05:00

So I was able to email myself a couple of pics off my iPhone from Sunday's performance...

Djinn

Beatbox Guitar
Also, here's an excerpt from Djinn's weekly newsletter commenting on the CD release party =)

"The CD release party for The Silent D this past Sunday was a huge success and we're grateful to all the awesome folks who joined us at Galapagos. Thanks to Black Sea Hotel, Beatbox Guitar, Kaeshi, Sera and Manhattan Tribal for lighting up the stage. Thanks to Brad's students Gina, Marjorie and Angie for joining the band for a couple tunes. And lastly, huge thanks to our friends, fans and family for making our party so special!"

Cool, huh? =)

AMAZING!!!!

2009-09-22T15:40:00.006-05:00

I had such an incredible weekend, I don't even know where to start!! =)

I played with Brad, Pete, Dan and Leann in the PURE show this past weekend. What an awesome time...we did 2 shows...the 7pm and 9pm and it was just a fantastic show that I was happy to be a part of it.

Then I worked at the NYRF...it was the LAST WEEKEND! I was slammed on Saturday and had my best day! It was fantastic...and I'll have to make sure I post some of the pics on my henna blog later.

On Sunday, I had another great day...and I left Ella with a line...I had to leave early to head over to Djinn's CD release party...I sat in on a couple of songs with them..."Brooklyn Baladi" and "Burning the Temple". I had so much fun! It was held at Galapagos Art Space in DUMBO (Brooklyn)...it was a wonderful party!

Ah! Now back to the grind...I feel like the last few days at work have been sooooooo looooooooonnnnnnnnnnnnnggg!

More shows...

2009-09-11T15:47:00.003-05:00

Just a quick update to say that I am playing in two upcoming shows.

On Friday, 9/18/09 PURE Reflections: Beauty Reimagined Dance Theater Show
7pm and 9pm, $15 adv/$20 at the door.
Speyer Hall, University Settlement, 184 Eldridge St, NYC
Buy tickets here

On Sunday, 9/20/09 Djinn Presents: "The Silent D" CD Release Party Extravaganza!
Doors open at 7:00pm, show starts at 8:00pm
Galapagos Art Space

Hope you can make it =)

a recent pic...

2009-08-24T16:15:00.002-05:00

Here's one of us performing at Le Poisson Rouge on 8/15

In order from left to right:
Jullissa, me, Marjorie, Kaeshi, trumpet player (I'm sorry I missed his name!), Carmine, Brad and Pete

Drumming updates!

2009-08-24T15:45:00.002-05:00

I know it's been a bit, but I've been super busy with lots of stuff! I've been drumming my little heart out =) So you know I've been taking drum lessons...and my instructor is in the band Djinn.

Well I've played with them a few times now...and have invites to do it again =) I'm super psyched about this...but I think the best is that they want us (my class) to join them at their CD release party on 9/20/09 which is going to be held at Galapagos Art Space.

How freaking cool is that!!!!

Drumming in a couple of shows...

2009-08-12T09:21:00.003-05:00

Wow...so much has happened since I last posted...and I don't have the time to recap right now, BUT...I'm drumming in a show tonight at Je'bon and Saturday at Le Poisson Rouge!!!

See info below!

Hope to see you there =)

Excerpt from Djinn's weekly newsletter:
As a young independent republic, Slovenia pursued economic stabilization and further political openness, while emphasizing its Western outlook and central European heritage. Today Slovenia plays a role on the world stage quite out of proportion to its small size. This week we're featuring one of Slovenia's most treasure exports, Ksenija. In addition to the Slovenian representation we'll have more dancers then people who live in Brad's hometown of Kalamazoo plus our special guest musician, Satoru, on trumpet.

Special Guests

Our co-host, Kaeshi
Ksenija
Cherrelle Davis
Sherry Paris from Philly
Masumi (her last performance in NYC before she moves back to Japan)
Mahalat and Erel
Sandra Reina
Brad's students Jullissa, Marjorie, Gina and Kaeshi
Satoru on trumpet
Je'Bon, 15 Saint Marks Place between 2nd and 3rd Ave., NYC
Enter through the doors on Saint Marks Place, walk all the way to the back of the restaurant, go downstairs, order some food and start dancing. Read a review of Je'bon Noodle Shop!

Cost: $10 (plus $5 min. for drink or food.)
7.30-8.15pm Screening of famous bellydance performance
8.30-10.30pm Live music with Djinn & performances by Kaeshi, students and featured guest dancers.

For more information...
www.bellyqueen.com
www.djinnnyc.com

Saturday - 8/15/09

Le Poisson Rouge, 158 Bleecker Street, New York, NY www.lprnyc.com

$15 in advance at www.lprnyc.com / $20 at the door

new search engine

2009-06-26T15:13:00.002-05:00

Hi all,
I just wanted to share with you a Google search engine that uses less energy...it's called Blackle.

Blackle was created by Heap Media to remind us all of the need to take small steps in our everyday lives to save energy. Blackle searches are powered by Google Custom Search.

Blackle saves energy because the screen is predominantly black. "Image displayed is primarily a function of the user's color settings and desktop graphics, as well as the color and size of open application windows; a given monitor requires more power to display a white (or light) screen than a black (or dark) screen." Roberson et al, 2002

So if you are so inclined...try it, use it, help the world be more energy efficient.

new iPhone

2009-06-19T15:01:00.001-05:00

Just wanted to let you know I got it!!!! WHOO HOO!!!!

I got it from the store on 14th St...I called and they said it would be 2.5 hours...when I got there...I was on line for about 45 min. They gave out water and coconut juice! When I got inside...I was setup and my old address book was synched to the phone in about 20 min!!! I was helped by Joseph...he was awesome =)

It's so cool...I can't wait to synch it to my computer!

quick post...

2009-06-18T12:19:00.002-05:00

I've been super busy with work, so I barely have a minute! BUT...I wanted to share with you...a cool foodie website, that you're sure to love and my intern Alberto's blog =)

Enjoy!

Big Apple Circus

2009-06-11T18:02:00.002-05:00

I went to the Big Apple Circus tribute to Paul Binder...founder in 1977.

busy, busy, busy

2009-06-08T12:19:00.001-05:00

...but what else is new =)

So...I had an awesome weekend! I had a friend come visit from MA this past weekend...we went to Icefalcon's Ducal Challenge in NJ...

See the scroll I did for that event on my other blog.

Yesterday, I gave a speech at the Rosary Sociey Luncheon...and it was a hit =) I admit that I was a little nervous at first, but it turned out quite well. And, I had a few young women approach me about career opportunities in Engineering, so I guess I made my point and someone was listening ;)

Today, was been pretty good. I had the opportunity to attend the 2009 Distinguished Leaders in Education Award Breakfast at the Harvard Club...good breakfast!

Tonight, I have a volleyball game (if it doesn't rain) so I'm looking forward to that...and I have a full week of events ahead of me!

Can't wait! Have a great week everyone!

Robin & Bill's Wedding

2009-05-25T20:11:00.002-05:00

Sunday - 5/24/09

I didn't get as many pictures as I would have liked as my camera battery died =(

Also, more ketubah pictures.

Done!!!

2009-05-23T21:04:00.001-05:00

I finally finished!!!!

busy busy week...

2009-05-22T14:08:00.003-05:00

It has been a crazy busy week...work has been hectic, good, but hectic.

Tuesday - YPE (Young Professionals in Energy) Networking event

- followed by dinner at Pop Burger

Wednesday - I went to the Asian Pacific Heritage Month event at Gracie Mansion and got another picture taken with Mr. Bloomberg
- then I had sewing class downtown at Make
- then stopped at Je'Bon to see Djinn perform

Thursday - Happy hour (actually 3) at the same place =)
- then Drum class at Solstice Studios

Tonight - home to work on the ketubah that's due for the wedding I'm going to on Sunday!!!

Honestly, that whole thing has been crazy...it's not just copying text...it's like I'm learning a whole new language! I'm so stressed, I can't wait for it to be done!

Have a Happy Memorial Day weekend!!!

Free yoga in Bryant Park

2009-05-18T13:12:00.001-05:00

In case you're interested...

Bryant Park

Stevie Wonder Annual Tribute Party

2009-05-18T12:33:00.003-05:00

A midst the crazy yoga weekend that I had...I went to the Stevie Wonder Tribute Party in Brooklyn on Saturday.

It was suppose to start at 10pm...we got there at 10:45pm...and we were on line until nearly 12:45am!!! AND...at about midnight...it started to RAIN! I haven't stood on a line to get into a club in a llllllllllooooooooooooooonnnnnnnnnnnngggggggggg time!

Here are a few pictures....

All in all it was a good time...I we headed out about 3am...the music was really good! Whoever the DJ was did an excellent job!

Food for Thought...

2009-05-18T12:02:00.003-05:00

After a fantasic weekend of yoga, philosophy and meditation, I just had to share this email that I got. More on my yoga weekend later...

****************************************
A group of gradutes, well established in their careers, were talking at a reunion and decided to go visit their old university professor, now retired. During their visit, the conversation turned to complaints about stress in their work and lives. Offering his guests hot chocolate, the professor went into the kitchen and returned with a large pot of hot chocolate and an assortment of cups - porcelain, glass, crystal, some plain looking, some expensive, some exquisite - telling them to help themselves to the hot chocolate.

When they all had a cup of hot chocolate in hand, the professor said, "Notice that all the nice looking, expensive cups were taken, leaving behind the plain and cheap ones.

While it is normal for you to want only the best for yourselves, that is the source of your problems and stress.

"The cup that you're drinking from adds nothing to the quality of the hot chocolate. In most cases it is just more expensive and in some cases even hides what we drink. What all of you really wanted was hot chocolate, not the cup; but you consciously went for the best cups -- and then you began eyeing each other's cups.

"Now consider this: Life is the hot chocolate; your job, money and position in society are the cups. They are just tools to hold and contain life. The cup you have does not define, nor change the quality of life you have. Sometimes, by concentrating only on the cup, we fail to enjoy the hot chocolate God has provided us. God makes the hot chocolate, man chooses the cups. The happiest people don't have the best of everything. They just make the best of everything that they have."

Live simply.
Love generously.
Care deeply.
Speak kindly.
And enjoy your hot chocolate!'

drumming...

2009-05-15T12:38:00.003-05:00

So I had my first private lesson yesterday and I think it went pretty well.

We worked on a few things...just seeing where I was at and the sounds that I made. He said I had a good foundation...so then we worked on tone and accents, how drumming lightly then loudly would make an impact in a song. I had heard people do this before, but hadn't actually capitalized on that myself. Pretty cool stuff!

Then we actually worked on slaps (which I hadn't ever done before) and then worked on incorporating them into songs. I have to remember to keep my hand relaxed! As soon as I start to think about it too much, my slap sounds like a doumb. I have a bunch of things to work on, but I think I made some progress.

My instructor said that eventually he wanted me to play with the band at their weekly show! I was like NO WAY! He said yup! So, we'll see. I'm not sure if I'm ready for that. I'm not saying it wouldn't be fun...I'm just saying I'd be afraid of f*cking up and making everyone else sound bad. THAT would be TRAUMATIC!

In the meanwhile, I am signing up for his 6 week series class and in addition to that 2 more privates. I'm really looking forward to working on everything and being more consistent.

A melody that is still with me from last night is a filler for masqum...

D S k S D k S

I like it...just have to practice it...I tend to not want to do the k S (or k t)...and accidentally switch hands S k (or t k)!

Practice, practice, practice!!!

Speaking of drumming...

2009-05-12T15:20:00.002-05:00

Besides having a great weekend of hanging with friends and family, I spent a little bit of time with Kellie (my drum teacher) who taught me a new way to make a ka on my doumbeck! She had gone down to North Carolina to see Souhail Kaspar. What a difference in my ka in only 2+ hours with Kellie. So she suggested that I buy his DVD...which I did...and had a nice email conversation with him =)

How cool is that?

Now he is having a workshop in Astoria, Queens this weekend, but I can't go because I will be at the Yoga Journal Conference near Times Square all weekend! I pre-registered for it over 6 months ago...otherwise I would have gone!

A little late...

2009-05-12T13:30:00.002-05:00

...but better late than never =)

Here are a few pictures from my trip to D.C. back in April.

Enjoy!

Happy Tuesday!

Food...glorious FOOD =)

2009-05-08T07:25:00.003-05:00

Did I mention that I LOVE FOOD =) Well, if you didn't know that you will certainly find this out in the next few moments =)

So yesterday I got an impromptu invitation to the Grand Central Terminal Grand Gourmet event...OMG! I was in heaven!!! We had VIP tickets, so we got to go in 30 minutes before the general population...I have never eaten so much food in my entire life in so short a time frame! We literally ate NON-STOP from 6:30pm to 7:15pm...and the only reason we stopped so early is because we just couldn't fit any more food into our bellies!

So to give you a glimpse of the food we had, I put together this list (and believe me, I wasn't able to remember everything, so...)
-charred feta in a papaya and grapefruit salad
-beef short rib taco
-tuna tartar wrap (OMG...AWESOME!!)
-fried skate with bi-color beets
-suckling pig
-tuna tartar
-assorted cheese and prosciutto
-Greek salad
-blue cheese stuffed date wrapped in air dried beef jerky
-steak with mushroom gravy and creamed spinach
-mushroom soup
-porter house steak bites
-lobster sausage (Holy moley, I had no idea!!! Check out the picture below!!)
-raspberry creme brule with a dark chocolate spoon
-champagne

Basically a bunch of restaurants were passing out sample dishes and it was phenomenal! Some of the restaurants featured were:
-Kellari Taverna
- Ammos
-Silverleaf Tavern
-Fireside
-Pershing Square
-Public House
-Pera - Mediterranean Brasserie

And there were many more...but I just didn't grab cards from everywhere I went!

What an awesome evening!

A great week!

2009-05-07T14:29:00.003-05:00

I have to say that I am having a really great week!

Monday - Channel 13/WNET.org gala (previous post on that)

Tuesday - Asian American Federation Gala @ The Pierre Hotel...lovely reception! I had a wonderful time and met some lovely people. One of which just invited me to the New York Women's Foundation breakfast on 5/14.

Wednesday - had dinner with my mentee, Nolan, a freshman at Manhattan College. He's doing well and got that internship in his town. I'm so proud of him =) Then I came back into the city to watch Djinn play at Je'Bon! What an awesome show! And guess who I bumped into there? Pacita =) What a small world, huh?

Tonight - I was going to head home for an early night, but I got an impromptu invite to the Grand Central Terminal Grand Gourmet event (food tasting!) tonight!

Friday - my VP's retirement party!

Holy Moley what a busy week! But it has been SO FUN =)

drum drum drumming....

2009-05-06T15:30:00.002-05:00

So I am thinking about taking some more formal drum lessons...that is, build upon what I've learned from Kellie and my CD's.

So I debating taking some private lessons...

And maybe a retreat with Raquy? She has a blog too =)

Ideas? Suggestions? Comments?

I love all the links on Pacita's page!

Thirteen/WNET.org Gala 5/4/09

2009-05-05T15:10:00.002-05:00

Last night, I had a lovely time with some friends and family at the Channel Thireteen/WNET.org Gala! It was at Gotham Hall on 36th Street and Broadway...and it was a fun night! The honorees were: Meredith Brokaw (Tom Brokaw's wife), James Dimon and Kevin Klein.

Pretty swanky, huh =)

This past weekend...

2009-05-04T13:42:00.003-05:00

...WAS AWESOME!!! I went to Spring Caravan in Somerset, NJ this past weekend. Now normally, I just go...watch my friend's (Anka Kusu) performance, and then go home. It always seems like I'm double-booking...anyway, I did have some place that I could have gone (Silverhorde meeting), but I got sucked in! I watched a bunch of very cool performances (Djinn included!) and did some shopping (Yeah! New music!) and was hanging out with friends. It was really fun! The next thing I knew it was 8pm...and at that point, I might as well stay for the after party!!! (which I had gotten a couple of invites for)...

And I bumped into a friend that I haven't seen in years (3+ to be precise)...and her group performance was very cool...and we got chatting and found out she lives a lot closer to me now (NY) then before (MA). That was fun and unexpected.

The after party was very fun...I got to drum with some awesome musicians...and the energy was really high...I really need to drum more! And...I met some really cool people this weekend =) I'm hoping to get out to some of their shows!

If you're my friend on FB, I posted some pictures from this weekend =)

one of my favorite bands

2009-04-28T16:46:00.002-05:00

I know...today's postings have been all over the place, but that's kind of what my thought processes have been today. Right now I wanted to share with you one of my favorite bands:

Beats Antique

They have a cool website and just came out with their second album.

Check it out!

Carribean cruise

2009-04-28T13:58:00.002-05:00

So...I'm going on vacation in July with my family and we are going to...

I am so excited because I've only been to one of these places so far and was looking to go to new places.

I've promised myself that I will go to one new place every year: regardless if it's domestic or international, until I've visited every place that I've ever wanted to go...which is a lot...so I have a long journey ahead of me =)

So excited!!!!

I want to make this!!!

2009-04-28T13:46:00.002-05:00

zippered pouch

Isn't it cute?

another blog link...

2009-04-28T08:40:00.001-05:00

I found another cool blog link to cool crafty things =) I can't wait to go home and make something from scrap fabric I have laying around!!!!

Crafty blog link

Enjoy!!!

great blog: tee-shirt yarn!!!

2009-04-28T07:58:00.001-05:00

Have a bunch of tee-shirts that you're going to throw/give away? Don't know what to do with them??

Make tee-shirt yarn!!!! Then you can crochet/knit trivets, potholders, rugs, or tote bags!!!!

Tee-shirt yarn tutorial

I was just going through stuff and was going to give it away to good will…now I'm thinking about doing this to make some stuff for around the house.

Hope you enjoy (she's got some other great tutorials as well).

Goodreads!

2009-03-12T16:21:00.000-05:00

If you love books, you'll love this!

Check it out!!!

This is all =)

OMG!

2009-03-09T15:41:00.002-05:00

I'm speaking on an Energy Panel tonight at Columbia University!!!

I'm a little nervous, look who I'm speaking with!!!

new things...

2009-03-04T08:49:00.003-05:00

Things have been busy, but really good. I hope everyone's winter has been well.

I just finished reading an AWESOME book - "Outlander" by Diana Gabaldon! What a fantastic read...everyone of the 900 pages!! It's a series, so I can't wait to get the next one!!

And speaking of books...

I have joined 2 sites...

Bookcrossing - where you can release your books into the "wild" and people can register it to see where it's been. It's better than throwing them away!!

Bookmooch - where you add books to the system and you earn points...and then you can mooch a book that someone else has in the system.

All in all...so far so good. I uploaded 10 books last night into the bookmooch system and one was requested already!! I am putting it in the mail today!

cool blogs!

2009-02-23T13:51:00.000-05:00

So I belong to swap-bot...and there was a post in the forum for a cool blog:

http://stampingmathilda.blogspot.com/

While there...I discovered her sister's blog...also very cool:

http://stampingrika.blogspot.com/

Check them out...they are very creative crafty gals =)

BTW...check out the ATC's that I've been making.

Happy Monday!

The good and the bad...

2009-02-10T10:18:00.002-05:00

Let's start off with the good...

- I had a wonderful weekend in Fleurida with my sisters =)
- We got to see dolphins...
- We took a belly dance class together! That was so fun =)
- eat lots of awesome food (brie with honey, almonds and cranberries, Greek food and Jenness' eggs benedict!)

the bad...
- went to a funeral for one of my high school friends at a Baptist Church for 5 hours! Then found out that she got laid off last week =( What a horrible week for her!
- had my FAVORITE yogurt place "DayDream" have issues...aka the partners f*cked with Gwen (the whole reason we all go) and is trying to run the business without her. Well F them! We're not going back there until Gwen is back!

that is all for now...