Ooh, ooooh, ooooh, Gratitudes!

I got worried this morning since I had yet to post a daily inspiration and I had nothing. But then I closed my eyes and one just popped up.

What's the 1 thing you want to ACHIEVE today? Be it a task or a state of mind, call out to the universe and we will SUPPORT you!

But then I realized wait, it's THURSDAY. Gratitude Day! As I look at the light snow blowing like crazy from my warm apartment, I consider the good things in my life.

1.  More referrals for A More Perfect Union. In such a business, the only way I will continue to expand is by word of mouth.
2. Yoga. With a gym membership and good classes, it's been nice to focus on my body and breath most days.
3. A kindle. It allows me to easily get my Game of Thrones fix on public transportation. It makes my daily 40 minute commute worth it.
4. My essential oil spray bottle. I have lemon verbena and lavender at my fingertips and the scent really makes a difference.
5. Catering leftovers. Lots of options. They may have too much salt, but it saves on grocery shopping and I can supplement with super healthy salad!

Now you. What makes you grateful? Can you share ONE thing below?

Can Cynicism be Healthy?

Here we go with the second installment of the Tommy Housworth recommended posts. If you missed the first one, read it here. There are a couple of things that went through my head when he posed the question, "Can Cynicism Be Healthy?" First, was 'Sure!'

I am of firm belief that everything is good in moderation. Well, not violence, but why not a healthy bit of cynicism? But then I thought 'can being a cynic bring unneeded negativity?' And that's when I realized that we needed to take a step back. Heck, who am I kidding? I needed explore and better understand what cynicism was.

That's when I saw there are TWO schools of thought on cynicism. One is the ancient philosophical and the second is the modern view. Strict definitions did not seem full enough, so here's what Wikipedia says about the one created by Socrates' pupil Antisthenes:

Cynicism in its original form, refers to the beliefs of an ancient school of Greek philosophers known as the Cynics. Their philosophy was that the purpose of life was to live a life of Virtue in agreement with Nature. This meant rejecting all conventional desires for wealth, power, sex and fame, and by living a simple life free of all possessions. 

So these toga wearin' Cynics were all over Greece begging in the streets in the 1st Century, but by the 5th Century cynicism seemed to fade away or perhaps get picked up in part by Christianity. However, by time we hit the 18th Century, things shifted. A new view of cynicism emerged. Back to Wikipedia and the more modern entry.

Cynicism is an attitude or state of mind characterized by a general distrust of others' apparent motives or ambitions. A general lack of faith or hope in the human race or in individuals with desires, hopes, opinions, or personal tastes that a cynic perceives as unrealistic or inappropriate, therefore deserving of ridicule or admonishment. It's a form of jaded negativity, and other times, realistic criticism or skepticism.

So, somewhere down the line we did a 180. It seems like the ideas of simplicity and piety became lost when someone asked the question, 'why bother?' Life became more complex as machinery improved and was more widespread. There were more options, but that didn't make things BETTER. Cities grew and travel was a possibility even for the lowest class. Our world grew smaller, but our world view increased. Many may have thought that they had to have money and power to get ahead or get away. And even with that view, life was still difficult. Living without was just as difficult as the struggle to live with. But this is all conjecture. I go by instinct and a bit of research. It makes sense, though, does it not?

So, in the 21st century, cynicism is pretty much the same as it's been for the last few hundred years. Or perhaps the contemporary definition is more modern than I realize. Either way, it leads us back to the original question. Can this cynicism be healthy?

I'm sticking with my original opinion and say 'yes.' And that's to both the ancient and the modern views. I think it's healthy to let of go things we may not need. Materialism and commercialism run rampant in our society. Do we need SOME? Absolutely. We all have bills to pay and should be able to satisfy our desire for a little luxury and splurging from time to time. But do we need LOTS? No. Lots makes it hard to organize, keep things clean, be efficient with time and space. Ambition can be a good thing, but it's wise to keep it in check with your general happiness.

The modern view is a bit harder to connect. As a New Yorker moving to Atlanta many years ago, I wondered why everyone was so nice. I was sure they wanted something of me. But that was not often true. Is it smart to question? Absolutely. Is it healthy to assume that everyone is out to get you? No way. In our culture where information is at our fingertips we forget the power of faith and hope. There is something to be said for the wonder of the unknown and bothering to care about something just beause it feels right. So, allow the skepticism to manifest, but then check in with your gut - your instincts - before making the best decision for you and letting it go.

What are your thoughts on cynicism? Do you consider yourself a cynic? How does it help or hinder? Please share your comments below.

Losing Weight Check-in #5

Well, I can finally feel a difference with my daily exercise. My body is certainly stronger and I can endure more. The yoga classes I've taken tend to work heavily on the quads, but I also notice that I am weaker than I'd like in the shoulders. I did lose another pound which certainly got me excited. There were also two people who noticed that I looked like I lost weight. Water intake was a challenge again.

Now that the plastic challenge is officially over it will be easier buying fish and some veggies. I also bought a new water bottle, so it will be easier to drink all day. I will also be working more this coming week, so less laying around, and less nibbling.

Monday

Breakfast: 2 egg whites with 1/2 english muffin, 1 tsp orange marmalade, coffee with skim milk

Lunch: 3 chicken skewers with peanut sauce, salad with grated beets and balsamic vinegar

Dinner: Clif Bar, banana, cup of butternut squash soup with 2 T of chicken pot pie filling, chunk of cheese with 1 water cracker, glass of white wine

Water: 30 oz.

Exercise: Yoga for Jocks (90 min)

Tuesday

Breakfast: 2 egg whites, meatloaf scraps, tomato/eggplant sauce, masala tea with milk

Lunch: big salad with 3 chicken skewers, peanut sauce and balsamic vinegar

Dinner: beef tenderloin, chive spatzle, mushroom & chard
Snack: banana with 1 T peanut butter, an orange

Water: 25 oz.

Exercise: catering work, a little walking, 1:52 plank, stretching - my quads and sides of my torso are sore from yoga

Wednesday

Breakfast: 2 egg whites, 1 oz of cheddar, 1 small whole grain roll

Lunch: Big salad with chive spatzle and a chicken leg

Dinner: Spanokopita, small coffee with milk, 1/2 apple

Water: 25 oz.

Exercise: 30 full sit ups, 13 full push ups - my psoas are tight, I assume from yoga

Thursday

Breakfast: handful of curried cashews, coffee with skim milk

Lunch: Big salad with chive spatzle and a chicken leg
Snack: half piece coconut cake 

Dinner: Arugula and radishes with 3/4 cup of chicken pot pie filling

Water: 45 oz.

Exercise: Basic yoga class (75 min) ~ 1.5 mi. walk

Friday

Breakfast: Oatmeal with 1/2 banana, 1/2 apple, 1 T maple syrup, coffee with skim

Lunch: chicken soup with noodles and a broccoli & cheese pupusa & slaw

Dinner: arugula salad with chive spatzle

Water: 20 oz.

Exercise: David Barton awesome yoga class (75 min)

Saturday

Breakfast: small roll with 2 egg whites, tomato/eggplant sauce & cheddar cheese, coffee with skim

Lunch: half sweet potato, sauteed peppers & eggplant, dorset cheese, arugula and beet salad

Snack: Chicken empanada
Dinner: Shrimp & mixed veggies, white rice, 1/4 c hot & sour soup

Water: 20 oz.

Exercise: ~ 1 mi. brisk walk

Sunday

Breakfast: oatmeal with 1/2 banana, skim milk & maple syrup

Lunch: 2.5 empanada (beef, onion/cheese, chicken curry, spinach/cheese, tuna & tomato)

Dinner: Shrimp & mixed veggies, white rice

Water: 30 oz.

Exercise: Advanced yoga class (60 min.)

Week #4 - No New Plastic Challenge

I didn't realize that we were almost done with the month until we were done with the month. However when I was at the gym I saw the date and I didn't have a problem grabbing a plastic disposable razor. At all. I did keep the razor and plan to reuse it. So it's not totally horrible, but still.

I did work a catering event this week at one of the large museums and worked the bar. It was a large event and I was horrified to see only plastic cups. Yes, it makes things so much easier and clean up is a breeze, but I don't believe these cups were recyclable. In any case, I did encourage folks to REFILL their glasses rather than take a new cup. A few people stopped for a moment when I suggested it, realized it was a good idea and then thanked me. One guy didn't understand what I was saying and acted like he could not be bothered. But he was certainly in the minority. I do think the bartender on my right thought I was a pain on my little crusade, but I really didn't care. I wasn't going to make it a big deal, but I did do my small part to help reduce plastic consumption. In fact, the bartender on my left tried to one up me by trying to get more people to reuse their glasses. See what a little friendly competition can do? We can save the world!

For the last month I did my best to avoid plastic. And I feel I was pretty successful doing so. In fact, there's lots that I will try to keep doing:

1. carry my own containers when going out to dinner.

2. bring a canvas bag with me instead of using plastic (though I do need a few for cat litter disposal)

3. look for options for things packaged in plastic

4. RECYCLE and REUSE packaging when I can if I must buy plastic

5. request real glasses, plates and utensils whenever possible

6. be creative when it makes sense to make my own food, beauty products or cleaning supplies or choose family size items that I can buy less often.

Anything you learn? Anything you would try? Any questions or comments? Add them below!

Hey-oh, it's time for Gratitudes!

Wow, this week went by fast! Perhaps it's because I am working more or perhaps I am just more productive. In any case, the time is here to take a moment out to share some love and thank my lucky stars. Here's what I'm grateful for this week.

1. warmer weather. While still cold, I don't have to bundle as much. And I currently have my window open for fresh air.
2. Yoga. I have been going regularly and feel the difference in my body.
3. The No New Plastics Challenge. It's allowed me to be more aware of my actions and share the experience with others. And hopefully not preach.
4. Catering leftovers. Less food to buy, no need to purchase meat packed in plastic.
5. My growing community. Specifically Annette Gates for sharing some great resources and Traci Redmond for sharing The Zen Bride invite with a friend of hers.

Care to share? Feel free to do so below in the COMMENT section. Woot!

Losing Weight: Check in #4

I bumped up my exercise and watched my food intake more. As you can see I did do better with water since I consciously started drinking earlier in the day. And on Wednesday, I did feel a difference in my clothes. There is a scale at the gym, and since I go every day it's tempting to weigh myself. I have lost 2 pounds since I started this little weight loss challenge. I would like to lose another 6-8. I have another 2 weeks left at the gym, so while I don't think it's possible in that time, but I will be further on my way. However putting on the THE pants, they are still tight. The leg continues to loosen, but the waist is not where it should be. Next week, lots of veggies and fish!

Monday

Breakfast: 1 egg + 1 egg white, 1/2 bran muffin, 4 radishes with black bean spread, mint tea

Lunch: lamb tagine with cous cous, arugula and carrot salad, balsamic vinegar

Dinner: 2 large turkey meatballs, roasted sweet potatoes & beets, 2 tsp cranberry chutney
Snack: apple, 2 chunks of cheese with 2 water crackers

Water: 50 oz!

Exercise: David Barton yoga class (75 min), lots of walking

Tuesday

Breakfast: turkey burger with 3 thin baguette slices, arugula, small chunk cheddar, coffee with soy milk

Lunch: lamb tagine with cous cous
Snack: 3/4 of Clif bar

Dinner: bowtie pasta with kale, mushroom & onions with a pat of truffle butter, 1 glass red wine

Water: 50 oz.

Exercise: capoeira/yoga class (50 min) planks during Jimmy Fallon on Hulu :30, :60, :50, :30, :45

Wednesday

Breakfast: lamb tagine with cous cous

Lunch: banana, peanut Clif Bar

Dinner: One turkey meatball with pasta and chunky tomato/eggplant sauce, glass of red wine

Water: 50 oz

Exercise: kick ass interval exercise class. whoo boy! (45 min) 

Thursday

Breakfast: granola with skim milk and a banana, coffee with skim milk

Lunch: lamb tagine with cous cous, blood orange-flavored Pellegrino

Dinner: Malaysian noodle dish with chicken and tofu
Snack: apple, 3 calamari rings, 1 beer

Water: 35 oz.

Exercise: Basic yoga class (75 min), lots of walking in the super cold

Friday

Breakfast: egg whites with half an English muffin and a tsp of low sugar orange marmalade, coffee with skim milk

Lunch: bowtie pasta with turkey meatballs and tomato/eggplant sauce

Dinner: seitan skewers, kale and grain salad, porcini crusted tofu with veggies
Vodka with club soda, lime

Water: 40 oz.

Exercise: Intermediate yoga class (75 min)

Saturday

Breakfast: egg white on half an english muffin, chunk of Dorset cheese, apple

Lunch: cup of butternut squash soup, 3/4 cup of chicken pot pie filling, 6 wheat crackers

Dinner: salad with 2 chicken skewers, 1 beef and little meat loaf

Water: 25 oz.
1 glass wine

Exercise: A catering job with a shit ton of stairs.

Sunday

Breakfast: 1 egg with meatloaf scraps and tomatoes with eggplant

Lunch: big salad with 2 chicken skewers dipped in peanut sauce, balsamic vinegar, chunk of goat cheese on a water cracker, 1 glass Chardonnay

Dinner: Butternut squash soup with a 1/2 cup of chicken pot pie filling and 3/4 cup of bowtie pasta

Water: 25 oz.

Exercise: None. Mama needed a rest.

Week #3 - No New Plastic Challenge

I really don't know what I was thinking doing a weight loss and no plastics challenge at the same time. Needless to say, my diet has changed because of watching plastic, but it would have anyway since I'm watching what I put in my pie hole.

While I wish I was 100% successful and 100% creative, I am not. There's a lot of weighing cost vs. plastic and sometimes there's little or no options. Here are some things I learned or experienced this week.

1. New Yorkers get a little weirded out about this challenge. When I went to farmers market I asked the  guy selling yogurt and the woman selling duck sausage about packing in something other than plastic. The yogurt seller was downright rude and the duck lady was basically confused. One of produce sellers did have paper bags for my mushrooms and arugula. Sadly, the apples were a little mushy and I forgot to eat one of the yummy carrots I bought and had to throw it away.
2. I keep forgetting to ask servers and bartenders to not give me straws. I have been stopping them as they do it, but I think they just throw it out rather than reuse it.
3. My new french coffee press is plastic and glass. It cost $20. I could have gotten one that's glass and metal for $43, but I didn't think it was worth it and I will have this one for a while, knowing that if I break the glass, I can just replace the glass.
4. For a single person with limited kitchen space, I have a lot of food. I have not had to do a full shopping trip since I just need to supplement what I already had.
5. I did remember to bring a plastic container with me for leftovers at the restaurant last night, but I didn't need it.
6. Carrying around a glass Pellegrino bottle to refill is HEAVY!
7. I have yet to be super creative and make things that I can only get in plastic. Like granola bars. I still have 2 left, so I may be okay.
8. I have started cleaning with apple cider vinegar and baking soda since I'm out of Nature's Miracle to clean the cat messes. It works surprisingly well.
9. It has not been a pain to bring my waste (in the waste baskets) down to the basement every few days to dump and wash. No plastic bag liners needed.
10. My friend Julia is moving to Atlanta, so she gave me lots of panty items. A good number of glass jars and cans, however I could not say no to the plastic bottles of vinegar, mustard and spices.

Questions? Comments? Successes? Add them below!