Hi. This is Theresa Rose. Remember me? This is a big shout-out for you 13 beautiful souls who actually subscribed to my blog a thousand years ago. Now, let's get on to business.
I am going through some major changes in my life, and I am acutely aware of my need for journaling as a form of therapy and healing. Resuming a regular writing practice has been dancing around the periphery, but LogicGirl kicks in and says, "No! You're too busy! You gotta make those calls, send those emails, blah blah blah!" Yet, writing finds its way back into my heart. I have been living vicariously through Jason Mraz's blog. The man is a certifiable genius. I caught up on several of his blogs (since I hadn't given myself time to enjoy them - Enjoy life?! What, are you crazy?) and felt pangs of jealousy swoop into my noggin as I watched him take opening the kimono to a whole different place. (Insert tired-ass, type-A need to edit what I've written so far but am plowing through anyway because it's a blog, dammit, and I can be messy if I wanna.)
Folks, this is what happens when a writer doesn't give herself permission to write. She goes insane on the very first paragraph. Well, you can count yourself lucky that you (if you are even reading this and haven't thrown me into Junk by now) are one of a baker's dozen of like-minded individuals enjoying the bits-and-bytes bonding with a raving ninny.
Because that is what this blog is about to turn into.
I want to write about our struggles and the fears, but I also want to write about the victories and moments of Grace. I hope I can look beyond my fear of "what will they say about me?" and "will this negatively impact my chances for new business?" and just plow ahead. Is this the moment where I finally step into the 'integrity' I talk so much about? Can I finally accept that I am a spiritual teacher, and TRUST? Is it OK to talk about Spirit?
I'm sorry if this is rambling. Many of my posts may be. But here is what I'm thinking...if I just go into my heart and type my truth, then everything will work out the way it needs to. I do trust that I can share what I need to, and there will be no judgment - from God, from strangers, from friends and family, from clients and prospects, from me. Well, at least I can control the last one.
I will not judge myself.
I will not judge myself.
I will not judge myself.
I will not judge myself.
Maybe if I continue to write it a la Bart that it will get in there. It's getting better.
That's it for now. I'm glad I returned, and thank you. May your day be filled with tons of love.
Showing posts with label inspiration. Show all posts
Showing posts with label inspiration. Show all posts
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Friday, April 16, 2010
Following Directions
When I perform my most popular keynote speech, "Finding Your Mojo: The ABCs of Living in Abundance, Balance and Creativity", one of the first mojo busters I describe is Ignoring the Signs. It's time for me to follow my own advice.
Over the last few years, I have been doing what I thought I needed to do to be a successful author and speaker. I have performed book readings at countless bookstores, conducted a monthly women's discussion group both in Florida and Minnesota, facilitated meditation circles and healing workshops, and took any other opportunity presented to me to get in front of people. Ever since Opening the Kimono was published, I have performed free speaking engagements whenever possible in exchange for the opportunity to sell books and audiobooks afterward. I had been in training and facilitation roles for several years, both in my corporate and alternative healing days, but I had not yet broken into the land of the "paid professional speaker".
Boy, have things changed.
Over the last nine months, I have worked my cajones off to get recognized as a bonafide speaker, worthy of commanding a decent fee for my services. It has been incredibly difficult to break into this industry, especially in the midst of the worst economic downturn in my lifetime. It turns out that being a professional speaker involves a helluva lot more than just being good on stage; you also need to be an expert at sales, marketing, customer service, and business administration. You need to have an appealing, professionally-designed web site, a killer four-minute demo video, the ability to write compelling marketing materials, the courage to pick up the phone to call (and call and call and call and call) strangers to pitch them about your work, and most importantly, possess a thick layer of skin that will help you survive when you get pierced by the word "no" time and time again. The sales cycle is long, the competition is fierce, and the budgets are tight. Simply put, speaking ain't for sissies.
During this challenging time of growth, I had been relying on local events to keep me connected with people, sell a few books, and get my name out into the community. When we first moved to Minneapolis, my small events were going well, but I was not finding success with the larger keynote programs I was trying to secure. Yet, over time, the tides have turned. Over the last few months, I have seen a dramatic drying up of my small events, e.g. no one showing up for my free women's discussion group, three people showing up for my guided meditations, and workshops getting canceled due to lack of participation. At the same time, I have seen an explosion of interest in my major keynote programs - events where I am speaking in front of several hundred participants. Just this week I did a keynote at the Sheraton Bloomington Grand Ballroom for over 400 people. In a few months, I'll be performing "Finding Your Mojo" for 600-800 people, and I am in the final selection round for a Fall event that would be give me the opportunity to present in front of THOUSANDS of women. Prospective clients are sending me emails telling me that they want me for their next big function, glowing testimonials are opening doors to new gigs, and several national speaking bureaus have chosen to represent me.
Here's the irony. Two weeks ago, I had to cancel my monthly local chakra meditation at a neighborhood apartment complex because the door to the party room was inadvertently locked. It wasn't a major catastrophe, as only a few people showed up anyway. I have also decided to permanently cancel my Club Kimono Discussion Groups due to lack of participation. Finally, I am scheduled to do a workshop this Saturday at a local yoga studio that looks like it will cancel too due to poor registration. Talk about reading the signs!
At first, all I could think about was the personal sting of rejection that the "failure" of my local events brought about. It hurts when you get all gussied up to host a meditation or discussion group, pack up your car with books and flyers, drive to the venue, and wait for people to arrive. And wait. And wait a little longer. With each passing moment where no one walks in the door, a little more of my self-esteem was chipped away. Why? Why didn't they like me anymore? What was wrong with me? How come no one was showing up? WTF?????
Then I reminded myself of my Mojo Buster #1: Ignoring the Signs. In my presentation, I talk about how we lose our mojo when we constantly ignore the signs from The Universe (aka Spirit) to do something different. When we ignore them, the physical indicators will get louder and more unpleasant until we recognize the underlying message and act upon it. Eight years ago, I received a crystal-clear sign from Spirit that I was no longer going to be a Corporate Climber. The unmistakable sign was that I got laid off. Twice. Afterward, I could not find a comparable position no matter how hard I tried. In hindsight, I realize that I was patently unsuccessful in finding another job was because I wasn't supposed to. The Universe wanted me to move in a whole new direction -- alternative healing -- and I needed to have it slapped across my face for me to pay attention. Fast forward eight years later, and I am grateful beyond belief that I received those unpleasant signs.
I now find myself in another major transition. My life as a local healer is over, at least for now. Spirit is slamming doors shut left and right while opening others for me to walk through. I believe that Spirit has put an end to my local events so I don't need to let people down when I'd inevitably need to do it down the road. My calendar is already getting full with major keynotes, and my Club Kimonos and Chakra Meditations simply wouldn't be able to fit around them. There is a part of me that is saddened by this loss, but I also know that it is the natural next step for me.
One of the toughest challenges I face as I traverse this exciting new path is the acknowledgment of Bigness. It's a little uncomfortable to accept the fact that I am now being handsomely paid to get up in front of hundreds of people and...talk. There is a part of me that feels like I don't deserve this kind of success. A little annoying voice whispers in my ear, "Who do you think you are, Miss Fancy Pants? Do you really think that you are good enough to do this job?" It feels like trying on a luxurious, beautiful outfit at your favorite store and feeling enormous guilt for even bringing it into the dressing room. Yet, here I stand, wearing the outfit.
When I was freaking out before going on stage at the Sheraton this week, Michael took me in his arms and reminded me that I was BORN to do this. He's absolutely right. I've prepped for this moment ever since I was a child when I stood in front of my mirrored closet holding a microphone/hairbrush in my hand and performed for my enraptured stuffed animals. My current profession is a glorious combination of teacher, preacher, actor, and cheerleader -- all of which I have joyfully performed -- and I am finally accepting that I have gotten what I have been asking for. I am ready to accept my role as Bringer of the Mojo, even if it occasionally tweaks me (and a few others around me).
Thanks, Spirit, for being my Cosmic GPS. I understand that I have finally arrived at my destination: Joy.
Over the last few years, I have been doing what I thought I needed to do to be a successful author and speaker. I have performed book readings at countless bookstores, conducted a monthly women's discussion group both in Florida and Minnesota, facilitated meditation circles and healing workshops, and took any other opportunity presented to me to get in front of people. Ever since Opening the Kimono was published, I have performed free speaking engagements whenever possible in exchange for the opportunity to sell books and audiobooks afterward. I had been in training and facilitation roles for several years, both in my corporate and alternative healing days, but I had not yet broken into the land of the "paid professional speaker".
Boy, have things changed.
Over the last nine months, I have worked my cajones off to get recognized as a bonafide speaker, worthy of commanding a decent fee for my services. It has been incredibly difficult to break into this industry, especially in the midst of the worst economic downturn in my lifetime. It turns out that being a professional speaker involves a helluva lot more than just being good on stage; you also need to be an expert at sales, marketing, customer service, and business administration. You need to have an appealing, professionally-designed web site, a killer four-minute demo video, the ability to write compelling marketing materials, the courage to pick up the phone to call (and call and call and call and call) strangers to pitch them about your work, and most importantly, possess a thick layer of skin that will help you survive when you get pierced by the word "no" time and time again. The sales cycle is long, the competition is fierce, and the budgets are tight. Simply put, speaking ain't for sissies.
During this challenging time of growth, I had been relying on local events to keep me connected with people, sell a few books, and get my name out into the community. When we first moved to Minneapolis, my small events were going well, but I was not finding success with the larger keynote programs I was trying to secure. Yet, over time, the tides have turned. Over the last few months, I have seen a dramatic drying up of my small events, e.g. no one showing up for my free women's discussion group, three people showing up for my guided meditations, and workshops getting canceled due to lack of participation. At the same time, I have seen an explosion of interest in my major keynote programs - events where I am speaking in front of several hundred participants. Just this week I did a keynote at the Sheraton Bloomington Grand Ballroom for over 400 people. In a few months, I'll be performing "Finding Your Mojo" for 600-800 people, and I am in the final selection round for a Fall event that would be give me the opportunity to present in front of THOUSANDS of women. Prospective clients are sending me emails telling me that they want me for their next big function, glowing testimonials are opening doors to new gigs, and several national speaking bureaus have chosen to represent me.
Here's the irony. Two weeks ago, I had to cancel my monthly local chakra meditation at a neighborhood apartment complex because the door to the party room was inadvertently locked. It wasn't a major catastrophe, as only a few people showed up anyway. I have also decided to permanently cancel my Club Kimono Discussion Groups due to lack of participation. Finally, I am scheduled to do a workshop this Saturday at a local yoga studio that looks like it will cancel too due to poor registration. Talk about reading the signs!
At first, all I could think about was the personal sting of rejection that the "failure" of my local events brought about. It hurts when you get all gussied up to host a meditation or discussion group, pack up your car with books and flyers, drive to the venue, and wait for people to arrive. And wait. And wait a little longer. With each passing moment where no one walks in the door, a little more of my self-esteem was chipped away. Why? Why didn't they like me anymore? What was wrong with me? How come no one was showing up? WTF?????
Then I reminded myself of my Mojo Buster #1: Ignoring the Signs. In my presentation, I talk about how we lose our mojo when we constantly ignore the signs from The Universe (aka Spirit) to do something different. When we ignore them, the physical indicators will get louder and more unpleasant until we recognize the underlying message and act upon it. Eight years ago, I received a crystal-clear sign from Spirit that I was no longer going to be a Corporate Climber. The unmistakable sign was that I got laid off. Twice. Afterward, I could not find a comparable position no matter how hard I tried. In hindsight, I realize that I was patently unsuccessful in finding another job was because I wasn't supposed to. The Universe wanted me to move in a whole new direction -- alternative healing -- and I needed to have it slapped across my face for me to pay attention. Fast forward eight years later, and I am grateful beyond belief that I received those unpleasant signs.
I now find myself in another major transition. My life as a local healer is over, at least for now. Spirit is slamming doors shut left and right while opening others for me to walk through. I believe that Spirit has put an end to my local events so I don't need to let people down when I'd inevitably need to do it down the road. My calendar is already getting full with major keynotes, and my Club Kimonos and Chakra Meditations simply wouldn't be able to fit around them. There is a part of me that is saddened by this loss, but I also know that it is the natural next step for me.
One of the toughest challenges I face as I traverse this exciting new path is the acknowledgment of Bigness. It's a little uncomfortable to accept the fact that I am now being handsomely paid to get up in front of hundreds of people and...talk. There is a part of me that feels like I don't deserve this kind of success. A little annoying voice whispers in my ear, "Who do you think you are, Miss Fancy Pants? Do you really think that you are good enough to do this job?" It feels like trying on a luxurious, beautiful outfit at your favorite store and feeling enormous guilt for even bringing it into the dressing room. Yet, here I stand, wearing the outfit.
When I was freaking out before going on stage at the Sheraton this week, Michael took me in his arms and reminded me that I was BORN to do this. He's absolutely right. I've prepped for this moment ever since I was a child when I stood in front of my mirrored closet holding a microphone/hairbrush in my hand and performed for my enraptured stuffed animals. My current profession is a glorious combination of teacher, preacher, actor, and cheerleader -- all of which I have joyfully performed -- and I am finally accepting that I have gotten what I have been asking for. I am ready to accept my role as Bringer of the Mojo, even if it occasionally tweaks me (and a few others around me).
Thanks, Spirit, for being my Cosmic GPS. I understand that I have finally arrived at my destination: Joy.
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Whales vs. Mermaids
I received an email from a friend recently who passed this story along. I thought it was brilliant, and believe it was blog-worthy. Kudos to the anonymous author!
*****************************************************************
Recently, in a large city in France, a poster featuring a young, thin and tan woman appeared in the window of a gym. It said, "This summer, do you want to be a mermaid or a whale?"
A middle-aged woman, whose physical characteristics did not match those of the woman on the poster, responded publicly to the question posed by the gym:
To Whom It May Concern,
Whales are always surrounded by friends (dolphins, sea lions, curious humans.) They have an active sex life, get pregnant and have adorable baby whales. They have a wonderful time with dolphins stuffing themselves with shrimp. They play and swim in the seas, seeing wonderful places like Patagonia ,the Bering Sea and the coral reefs of Polynesia. Whales are wonderful singers and have even recorded CDs. They are incredible creatures and virtually have no predators other than humans. They are loved, protected and admired by almost everyone in the world.
Mermaids don't exist. If they did exist, they would be lining up outside the offices of Argentinean psychoanalysts due to identity crisis. Fish or human? They don't have a sex life because they kill men who get close to them, not to mention how could they have sex? Just look at them ... where is IT? Therefore, they don't have kids either. Not to mention, who wants to get close to a girl who smells like a fish store?
The choice is perfectly clear to me:
I want to be a whale.
P..S. We are in an age when media puts into our heads the idea that only skinny people are beautiful, but I prefer to enjoy an ice cream with my kids, a good dinner with a man who makes me shiver, and a piece of chocolate with my friends...
With time, we gain weight because we accumulate so much information and wisdom in our heads that when there is no more room, it distributes out to the rest of our bodies. So we aren't heavy, we are enormously cultured, educated and happy.
Beginning today, when I look at my butt in the mirror I will think, 'Good grief, look how smart I am!'
*****************************************************************
Recently, in a large city in France, a poster featuring a young, thin and tan woman appeared in the window of a gym. It said, "This summer, do you want to be a mermaid or a whale?"
A middle-aged woman, whose physical characteristics did not match those of the woman on the poster, responded publicly to the question posed by the gym:
To Whom It May Concern,
Whales are always surrounded by friends (dolphins, sea lions, curious humans.) They have an active sex life, get pregnant and have adorable baby whales. They have a wonderful time with dolphins stuffing themselves with shrimp. They play and swim in the seas, seeing wonderful places like Patagonia ,the Bering Sea and the coral reefs of Polynesia. Whales are wonderful singers and have even recorded CDs. They are incredible creatures and virtually have no predators other than humans. They are loved, protected and admired by almost everyone in the world.
Mermaids don't exist. If they did exist, they would be lining up outside the offices of Argentinean psychoanalysts due to identity crisis. Fish or human? They don't have a sex life because they kill men who get close to them, not to mention how could they have sex? Just look at them ... where is IT? Therefore, they don't have kids either. Not to mention, who wants to get close to a girl who smells like a fish store?
The choice is perfectly clear to me:
I want to be a whale.
P..S. We are in an age when media puts into our heads the idea that only skinny people are beautiful, but I prefer to enjoy an ice cream with my kids, a good dinner with a man who makes me shiver, and a piece of chocolate with my friends...
With time, we gain weight because we accumulate so much information and wisdom in our heads that when there is no more room, it distributes out to the rest of our bodies. So we aren't heavy, we are enormously cultured, educated and happy.
Beginning today, when I look at my butt in the mirror I will think, 'Good grief, look how smart I am!'
Friday, April 17, 2009
Restoring My Faith
Just when my cynicism and raging PMS hormones are threatening to consume me, I stumble upon three YouTube viral vids that put a smile on my face and a spring in my step. It's amazing how a few minutes of video can restore one's faith in the beauty and magic of the human condition. I'm sure you've seen these before; I think we all deserve to see them one more time.
Enjoy, and make it a great day!!
Susan Boyle's Performance on Britain's Got Talent
Enjoy, and make it a great day!!
Susan Boyle's Performance on Britain's Got Talent
Friday, March 13, 2009
Be Like Morpheus
Normally, I don't blog about the news, but something I saw today on the Internet prompted me to provide my unabashed, totally subjective commentary. It's about the old enemy we can't ever seem to shake: FEAR.
Larry Summers, the top gun of economic advisors to our President came out today with one clear message to the American public: STOP BEING AFRAID. Yes, corporate greed, numbskull banks, and overzealous spenders got us into this mess, but our own rampant fear is keeping us in it. Mr. Summers said what I have been saying for weeks (but no one from any of the news organizations was around to capture my pearls of wisdom): we are exacerbating the recession by moving into a full-blown tizzy. We swung like a 70s dude with seventeen gold chains at Studio 54 from blind greed to paralyzing fear in a New York Stock Exchange Minute. Everywhere we turn, people are afraid...afraid to lose their jobs, afraid that we'll never get out of this disaster, afraid that life as we knew it is dead and gone. This fear has had a negative effect on the recovery effort, but more importantly, it has had a negative effect on our health and well-being. In case you haven't noticed, we are falling apart, folks.
ENOUGH ALREADY.
You know deep in your heart that this too shall pass. This dark period of our economic cycle will undoubtedly bounce back, and we'll be buying TiVo's and going out to dinner again. Why not start acting like the recovery is already happening? Why not be a way-shower and start to operate from a place of optimism instead of panic? Why not turn off the media's blah-blah-blah that is permeating you with doom and gloom? Why not be at the forefront of the recovery effort? Each one of us can shift our attitudes; all it takes is the willingness to let go of our own fear.
Please please please...For yourself, for your family, for me, for our country, and for the world, stop running on the Fear Machine and have the balls to jump on to the Positive, Can-Do, We-Rock Machine.
Because we really CAN do it; it's up to us to actually DO it.
Let's do it NOW.
**************************************************************************
For your consideration and/or comment:
What can you do personally to help fight against the collective fear program?
**************************************************************************
Visit www.TheresaRose.net to receive your Daily Dose of Mojo!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Larry Summers, the top gun of economic advisors to our President came out today with one clear message to the American public: STOP BEING AFRAID. Yes, corporate greed, numbskull banks, and overzealous spenders got us into this mess, but our own rampant fear is keeping us in it. Mr. Summers said what I have been saying for weeks (but no one from any of the news organizations was around to capture my pearls of wisdom): we are exacerbating the recession by moving into a full-blown tizzy. We swung like a 70s dude with seventeen gold chains at Studio 54 from blind greed to paralyzing fear in a New York Stock Exchange Minute. Everywhere we turn, people are afraid...afraid to lose their jobs, afraid that we'll never get out of this disaster, afraid that life as we knew it is dead and gone. This fear has had a negative effect on the recovery effort, but more importantly, it has had a negative effect on our health and well-being. In case you haven't noticed, we are falling apart, folks.
ENOUGH ALREADY.
You know deep in your heart that this too shall pass. This dark period of our economic cycle will undoubtedly bounce back, and we'll be buying TiVo's and going out to dinner again. Why not start acting like the recovery is already happening? Why not be a way-shower and start to operate from a place of optimism instead of panic? Why not turn off the media's blah-blah-blah that is permeating you with doom and gloom? Why not be at the forefront of the recovery effort? Each one of us can shift our attitudes; all it takes is the willingness to let go of our own fear.
Please please please...For yourself, for your family, for me, for our country, and for the world, stop running on the Fear Machine and have the balls to jump on to the Positive, Can-Do, We-Rock Machine.
Because we really CAN do it; it's up to us to actually DO it.
Let's do it NOW.
**************************************************************************
For your consideration and/or comment:
What can you do personally to help fight against the collective fear program?
**************************************************************************
Visit www.TheresaRose.net to receive your Daily Dose of Mojo!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday, March 12, 2009
She Goes To Extremes
This morning I witnessed a highly-unusual sight in my 7-year old's room: something folded.
As I wrote in my book, my daughter's room often looks like a post-apocalyptic Toys-R-Us. Everything, absolutely EVERYTHING, is strewn about. This is an AFGO for her beleaguered mother (Another F@cking Growth Opportunity). However, I'm getting much better with accepting her slobbiness as-is. At least I've deluded myself into thinking that I've gotten better.
So, imagine my surprise when I saw two (nearly)perfectly folded beach towels with two sets of swim goggles perched atop them. This rare act of organization didn't seem to fit in Emma's room. Then I remembered: She is having a swim date with her new best friend Madison who lives down the street. For the last two weeks, my daughter has been inseparable with this chickadee. My little urchin has yelled the word "Madison!" more than a U of W mascot.
It touched me this morning when I saw how gingerly Em folded her towels for her upcoming liquid soiree. Her careful attention showed me how much she values this new arrival into her life, and for that, I am grateful. Friends are important to a gal...far more important than any made bed or organized shelf.
(Although I may need an extra-large glass of Chianti to deal with the onslaught of "Madison! Watch this!")
***************************************************************************
For your consideration and/or comment:
Was your room messy as a kid? Do you still keep it messy?
***************************************************************************
Visit www.TheresaRose.net to receive your Daily Dose of Mojo!
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Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Dilly-Dallying
I have a very important document to edit, but I can't for the life of me settle my ass down to finish it.
It's not that I'm being lazy. Yesterday, I worked like a one-armed sherpa scaling Everest. Several key projects were completed, and I was a clicking maniac on MacDaddy. My publicist even commented on my rapid-fire emails directed toward her. (I'm sure she was feeling an equal mix of surprise, admiration, and deep annoyance.) I crashed into bed with that warm feeling that I had accomplished some big things during the day -- it was a day of which to be proud.
Yet...
I didn't get THE document done. For some reason, I have a mental block about the damn thing. I know it really won't be that hard to finish once I just commit to doing it. My writing recipe is typically the same: straighten up the work space area (clutter distracts me), do some yoga (moving my body helps pull in the inspiration), lay in meditation for a while (quieting my mind helps pull in the actual words), play my "Chillax" playlist on the trusty iPod (B-Tribe is particularly good to write to), light an India Palace incense (the scent relaxes any last-minute "I can't do this!" feelings), and flip open Mac.
However, with this particular deliverable, I have been unsuccessful using my typical measures. I have rationalized to myself that for some reason I needed to get EVERYTHING else out of the way before I tackle this one. Hmmm.... an interesting excuse. Since I actually did get nearly everything done yesterday, I will have this afternoon to prove my hypothesis.
There is nothing, absolutely nothing, that will get in the way of me finishing this paper TODAY.
Unless you count my own fear.
***********************************************************************
For your consideration and/or comment:
What procrastination techniques do you use?
***********************************************************************
Visit www.TheresaRose.net to receive your Daily Dose of Mojo!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
It's not that I'm being lazy. Yesterday, I worked like a one-armed sherpa scaling Everest. Several key projects were completed, and I was a clicking maniac on MacDaddy. My publicist even commented on my rapid-fire emails directed toward her. (I'm sure she was feeling an equal mix of surprise, admiration, and deep annoyance.) I crashed into bed with that warm feeling that I had accomplished some big things during the day -- it was a day of which to be proud.
Yet...
I didn't get THE document done. For some reason, I have a mental block about the damn thing. I know it really won't be that hard to finish once I just commit to doing it. My writing recipe is typically the same: straighten up the work space area (clutter distracts me), do some yoga (moving my body helps pull in the inspiration), lay in meditation for a while (quieting my mind helps pull in the actual words), play my "Chillax" playlist on the trusty iPod (B-Tribe is particularly good to write to), light an India Palace incense (the scent relaxes any last-minute "I can't do this!" feelings), and flip open Mac.
However, with this particular deliverable, I have been unsuccessful using my typical measures. I have rationalized to myself that for some reason I needed to get EVERYTHING else out of the way before I tackle this one. Hmmm.... an interesting excuse. Since I actually did get nearly everything done yesterday, I will have this afternoon to prove my hypothesis.
There is nothing, absolutely nothing, that will get in the way of me finishing this paper TODAY.
Unless you count my own fear.
***********************************************************************
For your consideration and/or comment:
What procrastination techniques do you use?
***********************************************************************
Visit www.TheresaRose.net to receive your Daily Dose of Mojo!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday, March 9, 2009
Weekend Update
On Friday night, the three Roses attended the downtown Bradenton art walk at the Village of the Arts to support two gorgeous gal-pals.
One was my new friend MC Coolidge, who is the cutest li'l quasi-incendiary blogger I've come across in ages. Her book, Sideways in Sarasota, is a literary gem, and I bought yet another copy of it last Friday at MC's book signing at The Village Bookshop. The other artiste magnifique we had the pleasure of seeing is Michelle Donner, a sassy Club Kimono regular who is an AWESOME photog. (She is a Facebook friend of mine; check out my page to find her.) Emma was particularly taken with Michelle's up-close shots of an owl. (Em not-so-secretly adores anything remotely associated with Harry Potter.) We ended up buying several of Michelle's prints she had for sale at Charisma Cafe. It was delightful to enjoy the crisp night air and see two gutsy and beautiful women expressing their Mojo for the world to see.
Now I bet you're asking yourself, "How did Theresa's detox end up?" (Even if you aren't asking yourself that question, you're gonna get the answer...)
I felt fanf#@kingtastic after it was all over! My body was feeling cleaner, healthier, and dare I say, tinier! In fact, I can almost, almost get into my 'skinny' jeans (I use that term liberally). I'm not quite ready to wear them out of the house, nor do I know how they'd feel if I actually sat down in them -- they may very well cut off the circulation in my torso. While I definitely have some time to go before they are public-friendly, I got into 'em and did a full zip-up! :) YAY ME!
Not only did my bod feel better after the cleanse, my mind (eventually) became much sharper. I received clearer visions on what I want to accomplish in my career, and my priorities became a lot easier to recognize. As a result, great things started to transpire last week. It really feels like The Universe is aligning with my desires. The perfect people are coming into my world, and I am able to recognize the signs that are pointing me in the right direction. YAY ME AGAIN!
Last week's challenge reminded me of the power of focus and determination. It reminded me how precious my body is and how it wants to be cared for. Most importantly, it brought me to a deeper integration with mind, body, and spirit. I feel more PRESENT. I feel more JOYFUL. I feel more GRATEFUL.
(Plus the post-detox bedroom romp with hubby was phenomenal.)
Sometimes I need a five-day digestive cleanse which empties my insides to remind me of how full my life really is.
*********************************************************************
For your consideration and/or comment:
What activity helps you get into your body?
*********************************************************************
Visit www.TheresaRose.net to receive your Daily Dose of Mojo!
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
One was my new friend MC Coolidge, who is the cutest li'l quasi-incendiary blogger I've come across in ages. Her book, Sideways in Sarasota, is a literary gem, and I bought yet another copy of it last Friday at MC's book signing at The Village Bookshop. The other artiste magnifique we had the pleasure of seeing is Michelle Donner, a sassy Club Kimono regular who is an AWESOME photog. (She is a Facebook friend of mine; check out my page to find her.) Emma was particularly taken with Michelle's up-close shots of an owl. (Em not-so-secretly adores anything remotely associated with Harry Potter.) We ended up buying several of Michelle's prints she had for sale at Charisma Cafe. It was delightful to enjoy the crisp night air and see two gutsy and beautiful women expressing their Mojo for the world to see.
Now I bet you're asking yourself, "How did Theresa's detox end up?" (Even if you aren't asking yourself that question, you're gonna get the answer...)
I felt fanf#@kingtastic after it was all over! My body was feeling cleaner, healthier, and dare I say, tinier! In fact, I can almost, almost get into my 'skinny' jeans (I use that term liberally). I'm not quite ready to wear them out of the house, nor do I know how they'd feel if I actually sat down in them -- they may very well cut off the circulation in my torso. While I definitely have some time to go before they are public-friendly, I got into 'em and did a full zip-up! :) YAY ME!
Not only did my bod feel better after the cleanse, my mind (eventually) became much sharper. I received clearer visions on what I want to accomplish in my career, and my priorities became a lot easier to recognize. As a result, great things started to transpire last week. It really feels like The Universe is aligning with my desires. The perfect people are coming into my world, and I am able to recognize the signs that are pointing me in the right direction. YAY ME AGAIN!
Last week's challenge reminded me of the power of focus and determination. It reminded me how precious my body is and how it wants to be cared for. Most importantly, it brought me to a deeper integration with mind, body, and spirit. I feel more PRESENT. I feel more JOYFUL. I feel more GRATEFUL.
(Plus the post-detox bedroom romp with hubby was phenomenal.)
Sometimes I need a five-day digestive cleanse which empties my insides to remind me of how full my life really is.
*********************************************************************
For your consideration and/or comment:
What activity helps you get into your body?
*********************************************************************
Visit www.TheresaRose.net to receive your Daily Dose of Mojo!
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Day 3 of the Detox
Slowly but surely, I'm crawling out of the nightmarish hole I dug for myself called the Digestive Cleanse.
Today brings me to Day 3 of the Detox, and I'm a little more human than I was over the last 48 hours. Wow...I miss food. Food is good. It's yummy. It smells good too. It feels good in the mouth. It gives you a nice full feeling in your belly. I've had precious little of it for the last three days, subsisting mostly on my superfood drink, red juice, water, colon-blow tea, an apple a day, and a tablespoon or two of raw almonds a day. I'ze hungry.
Yet, even with the perpetually grumbling stomach and the throbbing temples, I am feeling a little better. I think I am past the killer decaf-caffeine withdrawal and the state of near-psychosis I found myself in yesterday. I can actually string a few words together to make sentences. That's a good sign. This morning in the shower I could have sworn there were fewer squooshy parts of me (although that could be the remnants of the quasi-hallucinations I had last night at the thought of devouring a large Filippo's Hungry Man pizza). Whatever the case may be, I'm feeling better, but not get good.
Fasting isn't new to me; I have done this as part of my spiritual practice on several occasions. It is a powerful form of devotion and one that connects me more fully to my body, my thoughts, and my spirit. I got a taste of this foodless bliss during this morning's meditation. I could feel Spirit fill me in the empty spaces, and I received a great deal of guidance about the areas of fear and insecurity that are facing me. I was fed by the energy and light of the Divine, and for 45 minutes, I forgot how damned ravenous I was. Now it's up to me to feel that way the other 23 hours and 15 minutes.
While I can't yet do a lot of quality work - i.e. writing, planning, making calls, etc. -- I am IN my body once again. I am so very grateful for it and the delicious energy that the Earth provides.
All things considered, Day 3 is a good one so far.
(Although I still can't rid myself of my Filippo Fantasy.)
****************************************************************************
For your consideration and/or comment:
What is your relationship to food? Is it only an energy source, or does it serve a bigger role?
****************************************************************************
Visit www.TheresaRose.net to receive your Daily Dose of Mojo!
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Today brings me to Day 3 of the Detox, and I'm a little more human than I was over the last 48 hours. Wow...I miss food. Food is good. It's yummy. It smells good too. It feels good in the mouth. It gives you a nice full feeling in your belly. I've had precious little of it for the last three days, subsisting mostly on my superfood drink, red juice, water, colon-blow tea, an apple a day, and a tablespoon or two of raw almonds a day. I'ze hungry.
Yet, even with the perpetually grumbling stomach and the throbbing temples, I am feeling a little better. I think I am past the killer decaf-caffeine withdrawal and the state of near-psychosis I found myself in yesterday. I can actually string a few words together to make sentences. That's a good sign. This morning in the shower I could have sworn there were fewer squooshy parts of me (although that could be the remnants of the quasi-hallucinations I had last night at the thought of devouring a large Filippo's Hungry Man pizza). Whatever the case may be, I'm feeling better, but not get good.
Fasting isn't new to me; I have done this as part of my spiritual practice on several occasions. It is a powerful form of devotion and one that connects me more fully to my body, my thoughts, and my spirit. I got a taste of this foodless bliss during this morning's meditation. I could feel Spirit fill me in the empty spaces, and I received a great deal of guidance about the areas of fear and insecurity that are facing me. I was fed by the energy and light of the Divine, and for 45 minutes, I forgot how damned ravenous I was. Now it's up to me to feel that way the other 23 hours and 15 minutes.
While I can't yet do a lot of quality work - i.e. writing, planning, making calls, etc. -- I am IN my body once again. I am so very grateful for it and the delicious energy that the Earth provides.
All things considered, Day 3 is a good one so far.
(Although I still can't rid myself of my Filippo Fantasy.)
****************************************************************************
For your consideration and/or comment:
What is your relationship to food? Is it only an energy source, or does it serve a bigger role?
****************************************************************************
Visit www.TheresaRose.net to receive your Daily Dose of Mojo!
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Starting Down Detox Lane
I started a 5-day detoxification cleanse this morning, and I am already cranky, hungry, and feeling like a hammer got taken to my temples. It's gonna be a lonnnnnnnng week.
My first craving hit about 10:30 this morning. I was pining for my decaf coffee, preferably a Grande Decaf Light-Whip Mocha at Starbucks. Mmmm....frothy, sweet, chocolatey....my throbbing headache revealed to me the insidiousness of caffeine and how it has found its way into my system. Damn you, Buckys!
My tummy is growling, even after drinking my superfood concoction followed by a 2 ounce shot of some red juice that is supposed to be good for me. Honestly, I don't feel very healthy right now. Instead, I am starting to feel a wee bit psycho. I'm blabbering. Sentences are difficult to formulate. The work I was going to do today has gone out the window in favor of busy work whose priority lies somewhere between getting the oil checked and reorganizing recipe cards. Let's put it this way: my 7 year old now has an Airtran frequent flyer number.
Let's all I got today. This is what Day One of the Detox reads like...
My first craving hit about 10:30 this morning. I was pining for my decaf coffee, preferably a Grande Decaf Light-Whip Mocha at Starbucks. Mmmm....frothy, sweet, chocolatey....my throbbing headache revealed to me the insidiousness of caffeine and how it has found its way into my system. Damn you, Buckys!
My tummy is growling, even after drinking my superfood concoction followed by a 2 ounce shot of some red juice that is supposed to be good for me. Honestly, I don't feel very healthy right now. Instead, I am starting to feel a wee bit psycho. I'm blabbering. Sentences are difficult to formulate. The work I was going to do today has gone out the window in favor of busy work whose priority lies somewhere between getting the oil checked and reorganizing recipe cards. Let's put it this way: my 7 year old now has an Airtran frequent flyer number.
Let's all I got today. This is what Day One of the Detox reads like...
Monday, March 2, 2009
Doing It Blindfolded
I'm happy to report that I survived the Hooping workshop I went to this weekend! Barely.
The weekend was as difficult and wonderful as I imagined it would be. Bax, the incredibly talented (and cute-as-a-button) instructor, led us on a physical, emotional, and spiritual journey on the current of the hoop. Through my hooping, I discovered a lot about flow, surrender, focus, and belief. And, as predicted, it totally put me in my stuff.
There were a fair amount of gorgeous, nubile phillies in attendance that caused me to feel like an uncoordinated she-ogre. It was no surprise that I was definitely one of the hoopers with the least amount of "flight time". (Most of the attendees had been hooping for years.) However, that didn't stop me from trying everything that Bax so gently guided us to do. One of his trademark instructional methods is to have each participant feel the energy of the hoop (and ourselves) by practicing blindfolded. Remarkably, I found that I could do so much more when I shielded my eyes from the outside world and the outside world was shielded from me. I was free to explore, experiment, and otherwise express myself in ways that I would never dare to do if I thought anyone was watching me.
What a great lesson that exercise was. Clearly, I was able to let go of my ego, my fragility, my littleness when I disregarded what others thought of me. In that space of the void where vulnerability and trust resides, I could expand into greater depths and heights than I ever thought possible. Then, when the blindfold came off, the hoop invariably came crashing to the ground. My stinkin' thinkin' got in the way -- again -- and I allowed my choices to be dictated by others.
I'm proud of the fact that I went to the HoopPath workshop this weekend. I'm also sore as hell and bruised in places I didn't think I could bruise. Most importantly, I'm aware of my deep desire to hoop -- and live -- with utter abandon. I want to hoop, write, and live like I'm blindfolded.
Ahh...such freedom...
*****************************************************************************
For your consideration and/or comment:
How does the opinions of others affect you? Do you avoid certain things because of how they would appear?
*****************************************************************************
Visit www.TheresaRose.net to receive your Daily Dose of Mojo!
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The weekend was as difficult and wonderful as I imagined it would be. Bax, the incredibly talented (and cute-as-a-button) instructor, led us on a physical, emotional, and spiritual journey on the current of the hoop. Through my hooping, I discovered a lot about flow, surrender, focus, and belief. And, as predicted, it totally put me in my stuff.
There were a fair amount of gorgeous, nubile phillies in attendance that caused me to feel like an uncoordinated she-ogre. It was no surprise that I was definitely one of the hoopers with the least amount of "flight time". (Most of the attendees had been hooping for years.) However, that didn't stop me from trying everything that Bax so gently guided us to do. One of his trademark instructional methods is to have each participant feel the energy of the hoop (and ourselves) by practicing blindfolded. Remarkably, I found that I could do so much more when I shielded my eyes from the outside world and the outside world was shielded from me. I was free to explore, experiment, and otherwise express myself in ways that I would never dare to do if I thought anyone was watching me.
What a great lesson that exercise was. Clearly, I was able to let go of my ego, my fragility, my littleness when I disregarded what others thought of me. In that space of the void where vulnerability and trust resides, I could expand into greater depths and heights than I ever thought possible. Then, when the blindfold came off, the hoop invariably came crashing to the ground. My stinkin' thinkin' got in the way -- again -- and I allowed my choices to be dictated by others.
I'm proud of the fact that I went to the HoopPath workshop this weekend. I'm also sore as hell and bruised in places I didn't think I could bruise. Most importantly, I'm aware of my deep desire to hoop -- and live -- with utter abandon. I want to hoop, write, and live like I'm blindfolded.
Ahh...such freedom...
*****************************************************************************
For your consideration and/or comment:
How does the opinions of others affect you? Do you avoid certain things because of how they would appear?
*****************************************************************************
Visit www.TheresaRose.net to receive your Daily Dose of Mojo!
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday, February 27, 2009
Stepping Into the Circle of Fear
In just a few hours, I will be attending an intensive hula hooping weekend workshop. Yes, you read it correctly: a hula hooping workshop.
The hoop is a glorious thing. It helps me to loosen up the ol' bod, burn some cals, and make me feel all sex kitten-y. Moreover, I have found it to be a moving meditation that is like none other I have experienced. Unfortunately, I have not been hooping as much as I would like; illness, tasks, strategic planning, public appearances, and other busybusybusy work has gotten in the way of it (hence the newest roll of backfat I discovered several days ago).
I signed up for this kick-@ss workshop many moons ago after receiving an email from the local hoop group called HoolaMonsters. It seems that the King of the Hoop, Jonathan Baxter, will be in Sarasota to conduct one of this famous HoopPath weekend workshops. (Shout-out to the ladies: He's gorgeous!!!) In a delusional fit of confidence, I signed up for the sucker. Flash forward months later, and I'm getting ready to hoop with girls half my age and size that possess at least five times the talent and sex appeal. Yippyf#ckingskippy. This should do wonders for my tender self-esteem.
Actually, this is good for me right now. I am in need of a healthy dose of surrender. There are other areas of my life that aren't being executed according to the mental choreography I painstakingly developed. There is a fair amount of wringing of hands and gnashing of teeth that has taken place in my world lately. I think that sweating my nards off in a weekend-long hula hoop class is exactly what the alternative healing physician ordered. It will help me to forget about the piddly little things that I have allowed to occupy my noggin rent-free; it will put me in my fears and other assorted gunk; and it will most certainly put me back in my body once again.
I know I love the hoop. Now I need to remind myself that I love myself too.
After all, it's not every voluptuous, well-seasoned 39-year old woman who has the cajones to attend a hooping retreat with a roomful of serpentine, drop-dead gorgeous girlie-girls.
Please wish me, my abdomen, and my self-worth luck.
******************************************************************************
For your consideration and/or comment:
What have you done lately that has made you step out of your comfort zone?
******************************************************************************
Visit www.TheresaRose.net to receive your Daily Dose of Mojo!
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The hoop is a glorious thing. It helps me to loosen up the ol' bod, burn some cals, and make me feel all sex kitten-y. Moreover, I have found it to be a moving meditation that is like none other I have experienced. Unfortunately, I have not been hooping as much as I would like; illness, tasks, strategic planning, public appearances, and other busybusybusy work has gotten in the way of it (hence the newest roll of backfat I discovered several days ago).
I signed up for this kick-@ss workshop many moons ago after receiving an email from the local hoop group called HoolaMonsters. It seems that the King of the Hoop, Jonathan Baxter, will be in Sarasota to conduct one of this famous HoopPath weekend workshops. (Shout-out to the ladies: He's gorgeous!!!) In a delusional fit of confidence, I signed up for the sucker. Flash forward months later, and I'm getting ready to hoop with girls half my age and size that possess at least five times the talent and sex appeal. Yippyf#ckingskippy. This should do wonders for my tender self-esteem.
Actually, this is good for me right now. I am in need of a healthy dose of surrender. There are other areas of my life that aren't being executed according to the mental choreography I painstakingly developed. There is a fair amount of wringing of hands and gnashing of teeth that has taken place in my world lately. I think that sweating my nards off in a weekend-long hula hoop class is exactly what the alternative healing physician ordered. It will help me to forget about the piddly little things that I have allowed to occupy my noggin rent-free; it will put me in my fears and other assorted gunk; and it will most certainly put me back in my body once again.
I know I love the hoop. Now I need to remind myself that I love myself too.
After all, it's not every voluptuous, well-seasoned 39-year old woman who has the cajones to attend a hooping retreat with a roomful of serpentine, drop-dead gorgeous girlie-girls.
Please wish me, my abdomen, and my self-worth luck.
******************************************************************************
For your consideration and/or comment:
What have you done lately that has made you step out of your comfort zone?
******************************************************************************
Visit www.TheresaRose.net to receive your Daily Dose of Mojo!
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Happiness is the Hogwarts Express
Tonight I get to do one of the most exciting things imaginable: I get to read.
I have been absent from the Rose household every night this week. Monday night was my opportunity to watch the Oscar telecast courtesy of my friend Jamie and her TiVo, Tuesday night I did a speaking engagement at Eckerd College, and last night was another installment of Club Kimono, the righteous women's group that I am blessed to host. While all of these activities were a lot of fun, I really missed spending time with my fam. Hubby and Daughter did just fine without me, but all three of us yearned for our nightly read of Harry Potter.
We are now a third of the way through reading Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, and Emma is totally hooked on the literary heroin J.K. Rowling so adeptly administers. Tonight's chapter is where Harry, Ron, Hermione, and the rest of the kiddies jump aboard the magical Hogwarts Express train to begin their fourth year at Hogwarts. Since I am the only one who has already read the book and seen the movie, I get all squirmy when I know what's about to happen! Harry has turned 14 and I've started to develop a wee bit of a crush on him and his Quidditch pals. Cedric Diggory...Victor Krum...The Weasley Twins...
However, the best part of our wizardry readings isn't what is found within the pages; it's what happens in our living room chair. When one of us declares that it is "Time for HP", Emma immediately calls dibs on me. "I call sitting next to Mom the whole time!" She and I squeeze ourselves into our favorite chair and wrap our arms around each other. When we listen to Michael read his portion, we unconsciously twiddle each other's fingers and rub each other's tootsies. When we laugh or get scared, we immediately look at each other for nonverbal confirmation. The HP Time with EmmaBean is truly one of the most precious things in my life.
When it's my turn to read, I pull out all of the stops. I use different dramatic British accents for each character, use sweeping hand gestures, speak in a near-whisper for the super-tense parts, and occasionally accentuate the action with appropriate sound effects. WHAM!!! SLAM!!!! POW!!!! EEEKK!!!! My daughter is mesmerized by my enthusiastic performance, and I eat up her praise like fine dark chocolate. I have read about Griffindor, Quidditch, Privet Drive, and You-Know-Who countless times, but it never gets old. Each time I am handed the book to read, my little Hermione-in-training firmly instructs me to "Make it really dramatic, Mama!"
I will, Em. I promise.
*********************************************************************
For your consideration and/or comment:
What is your favorite Harry Potter character and why?
*********************************************************************
Visit www.TheresaRose.net to receive your Daily Dose of Mojo!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I have been absent from the Rose household every night this week. Monday night was my opportunity to watch the Oscar telecast courtesy of my friend Jamie and her TiVo, Tuesday night I did a speaking engagement at Eckerd College, and last night was another installment of Club Kimono, the righteous women's group that I am blessed to host. While all of these activities were a lot of fun, I really missed spending time with my fam. Hubby and Daughter did just fine without me, but all three of us yearned for our nightly read of Harry Potter.
We are now a third of the way through reading Harry Potter and the Goblet of Fire, and Emma is totally hooked on the literary heroin J.K. Rowling so adeptly administers. Tonight's chapter is where Harry, Ron, Hermione, and the rest of the kiddies jump aboard the magical Hogwarts Express train to begin their fourth year at Hogwarts. Since I am the only one who has already read the book and seen the movie, I get all squirmy when I know what's about to happen! Harry has turned 14 and I've started to develop a wee bit of a crush on him and his Quidditch pals. Cedric Diggory...Victor Krum...The Weasley Twins...
However, the best part of our wizardry readings isn't what is found within the pages; it's what happens in our living room chair. When one of us declares that it is "Time for HP", Emma immediately calls dibs on me. "I call sitting next to Mom the whole time!" She and I squeeze ourselves into our favorite chair and wrap our arms around each other. When we listen to Michael read his portion, we unconsciously twiddle each other's fingers and rub each other's tootsies. When we laugh or get scared, we immediately look at each other for nonverbal confirmation. The HP Time with EmmaBean is truly one of the most precious things in my life.
When it's my turn to read, I pull out all of the stops. I use different dramatic British accents for each character, use sweeping hand gestures, speak in a near-whisper for the super-tense parts, and occasionally accentuate the action with appropriate sound effects. WHAM!!! SLAM!!!! POW!!!! EEEKK!!!! My daughter is mesmerized by my enthusiastic performance, and I eat up her praise like fine dark chocolate. I have read about Griffindor, Quidditch, Privet Drive, and You-Know-Who countless times, but it never gets old. Each time I am handed the book to read, my little Hermione-in-training firmly instructs me to "Make it really dramatic, Mama!"
I will, Em. I promise.
*********************************************************************
For your consideration and/or comment:
What is your favorite Harry Potter character and why?
*********************************************************************
Visit www.TheresaRose.net to receive your Daily Dose of Mojo!
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Rallying
I just finished an hour-and-a-half enhanced interrogation session performed by our tax accountant. In one hour, I need to be ready to do a speaking presentation. Eeesh...I'm playing Emotional Pong again.
To all those CPAs out there, I apologize, but your ilk drives me loco. No matter how I do things, it never seems to be accurate or sufficient. I always end up getting a lecture on proper ledger entry, chart of accounts, expenses vs. capitalization, and other mind-numbingly boring topics that I couldn't give two rabbit turds about. Our CPA is a perfectly charming woman who only tries to help, but I can't help but act like a petulant child when I am in her midst. Like a grown-up Bart Simpson writing "I promise to dutifully manage my books" a hundred times before the dismissal bell rang, I squirmed in my seat, waiting not-so-patiently to be released from the mahogany-appointed Hades as quickly as freakin' possible.
I am now slurping down a Decaf Mocha from Whole Foods after inhaling some combo of taboulleh, bulghar, and some other ethnic goop that I would undoubtedly misspell. Somehow in the next hour I need to release the tax albatross from my neck and tap into my currently-AWOL juju. There will soon be people in front of me wanting to hear from a powerful, successful, enthusiastic, and articulate woman who will share her inspiring story of creating Opening the Kimono. Since she is nowhere to be found at this moment, I guess they'll be stuck with me.
Of course, it's not as bad as all that. With every passing minute (and every typed word) I can feel myself releasing more and more of my odious, noxious attitude in favor of Little Miss Mojo. I am letting go of my whiny baby attitude and embracing the fact that I have chosen this life, and what a wonderful one I have! Eating some food helps. Drinking some chocolate coffee really helps. Blogging through my annoyance really, really helps. Most importantly, realizing that I am so very blessed to be given another day on this big, blue, beautiful planet really, really, really helps.
Pish posh on my taxes, ledgers, and chart of accounts! Ain't none of it bigger and badder than my own bad ass.
I daresay that the audience who is about to see me won't be disappointed after all. I think I've all but released my WhinyGirl pissiness in favor of some good ol' fashioned Theresa Rose sassiness.
Whew! That was close. And I've even got 40 minutes to spare...
**************************************************************************************
For your consideration and/or comment:
How do you handle the yearly tax nightmare, er, process?
**************************************************************************************
Visit www.TheresaRose.net to receive your Daily Dose of Mojo!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To all those CPAs out there, I apologize, but your ilk drives me loco. No matter how I do things, it never seems to be accurate or sufficient. I always end up getting a lecture on proper ledger entry, chart of accounts, expenses vs. capitalization, and other mind-numbingly boring topics that I couldn't give two rabbit turds about. Our CPA is a perfectly charming woman who only tries to help, but I can't help but act like a petulant child when I am in her midst. Like a grown-up Bart Simpson writing "I promise to dutifully manage my books" a hundred times before the dismissal bell rang, I squirmed in my seat, waiting not-so-patiently to be released from the mahogany-appointed Hades as quickly as freakin' possible.
I am now slurping down a Decaf Mocha from Whole Foods after inhaling some combo of taboulleh, bulghar, and some other ethnic goop that I would undoubtedly misspell. Somehow in the next hour I need to release the tax albatross from my neck and tap into my currently-AWOL juju. There will soon be people in front of me wanting to hear from a powerful, successful, enthusiastic, and articulate woman who will share her inspiring story of creating Opening the Kimono. Since she is nowhere to be found at this moment, I guess they'll be stuck with me.
Of course, it's not as bad as all that. With every passing minute (and every typed word) I can feel myself releasing more and more of my odious, noxious attitude in favor of Little Miss Mojo. I am letting go of my whiny baby attitude and embracing the fact that I have chosen this life, and what a wonderful one I have! Eating some food helps. Drinking some chocolate coffee really helps. Blogging through my annoyance really, really helps. Most importantly, realizing that I am so very blessed to be given another day on this big, blue, beautiful planet really, really, really helps.
Pish posh on my taxes, ledgers, and chart of accounts! Ain't none of it bigger and badder than my own bad ass.
I daresay that the audience who is about to see me won't be disappointed after all. I think I've all but released my WhinyGirl pissiness in favor of some good ol' fashioned Theresa Rose sassiness.
Whew! That was close. And I've even got 40 minutes to spare...
**************************************************************************************
For your consideration and/or comment:
How do you handle the yearly tax nightmare, er, process?
**************************************************************************************
Visit www.TheresaRose.net to receive your Daily Dose of Mojo!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday, February 20, 2009
Pink & Black
I just noticed a curious thing: I have surrounded myself with pink and black.
I immediately notice the following items within five feet of me:
* My new iPhone sleeve is hot pink, with the space-agey screen itself being jet black.
* My daughter's old journal is black with pink butterflies. I have absconded with it, utilizing it as one of a dozen running To-Do list capturers. Don't feel too badly for the kid; she has a cabinet full of notebooks, pads, and diaries, each one having approximately a page-and-a-half of scribbles in them. She hasn't even noticed it's gone.
* My laptop bag is pink and black plaid. I sprung for this Staples special a few months ago when I found myself going out of the house quite often to write. For some reason, I felt the need to strike a little bit more of a stylish pose to my anonymous Panera Bread and/or Whole Foods posse than my fifteen-year old clunky laptop bag was giving me. A girl's gotta have the proper accessories.
* My flowy pink and black, post-hippie blouse that I bought for a song at Opitz, the single coolest shop in the world. Opitz is a discount store in Minneapolis that has deals on designer clothes to die for. It has fashions you can't buy in Florida and normally couldn't possibly afford at list price. For example, I bought the fancy little frock I'm wearing for $12. Yes, $12. I love you, sweet Opitz.
* The countless pink stickies I have plastered on my vision board, modem, printer, and anywhere else I randomly look throughout the day. The two that are catching my eye right now is the working title of not the next book I am going to write, but the one after (It's gonna be sooooo good!), and a note from my daughter from a long time ago that says, "I love you very much Mommy and Mim and God." (Translation provided by Mommy.)
Obviously, with the predominance of pink and black objects I choose to have around me, they must make me happy. There's just somethin' about the whimsy of hot pink and black as opposed to the humdrum of charcoal gray and muted pastels. Somehow they strike me as sassy, feminine, and powerful. Unusual.
Just like me.
****************************************************************************
For your consideration and/or comment:
What are your favorite colors lately and why?
****************************************************************************
Visit www.TheresaRose.net to receive your Daily Dose of Mojo!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I immediately notice the following items within five feet of me:
* My new iPhone sleeve is hot pink, with the space-agey screen itself being jet black.
* My daughter's old journal is black with pink butterflies. I have absconded with it, utilizing it as one of a dozen running To-Do list capturers. Don't feel too badly for the kid; she has a cabinet full of notebooks, pads, and diaries, each one having approximately a page-and-a-half of scribbles in them. She hasn't even noticed it's gone.
* My laptop bag is pink and black plaid. I sprung for this Staples special a few months ago when I found myself going out of the house quite often to write. For some reason, I felt the need to strike a little bit more of a stylish pose to my anonymous Panera Bread and/or Whole Foods posse than my fifteen-year old clunky laptop bag was giving me. A girl's gotta have the proper accessories.
* My flowy pink and black, post-hippie blouse that I bought for a song at Opitz, the single coolest shop in the world. Opitz is a discount store in Minneapolis that has deals on designer clothes to die for. It has fashions you can't buy in Florida and normally couldn't possibly afford at list price. For example, I bought the fancy little frock I'm wearing for $12. Yes, $12. I love you, sweet Opitz.
* The countless pink stickies I have plastered on my vision board, modem, printer, and anywhere else I randomly look throughout the day. The two that are catching my eye right now is the working title of not the next book I am going to write, but the one after (It's gonna be sooooo good!), and a note from my daughter from a long time ago that says, "I love you very much Mommy and Mim and God." (Translation provided by Mommy.)
Obviously, with the predominance of pink and black objects I choose to have around me, they must make me happy. There's just somethin' about the whimsy of hot pink and black as opposed to the humdrum of charcoal gray and muted pastels. Somehow they strike me as sassy, feminine, and powerful. Unusual.
Just like me.
****************************************************************************
For your consideration and/or comment:
What are your favorite colors lately and why?
****************************************************************************
Visit www.TheresaRose.net to receive your Daily Dose of Mojo!
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thursday, February 19, 2009
The Cruel Arrival of Backfat
I have been sick for over a week (hence, no blogging). Thankfully, I am nearly back to health, save for one nasty offshoot: I swear I've gained at least 10 friggin' pounds.
It's not that I've gone overboard on the food consumption front (I've certainly done much more damage over my lifetime of binge eating). Yes, I've eaten slightly worse than I normally do -- I admit to a Haagen-Daaz single scoop cone of Chocolate Peanut Butter, two slices of Filippo's delish Pizza Margherita and a glass of wine, more than one of those evil Decaf Mochas from Starbucks that I just can't seem to kick, and a few extra handfuls of my tasty home-roasted cashews and almonds. I ate and/or drank these delectable extras because I was sick, dammit, and I deserved it. (Oh yeah. I also pilfered my daughter's Valentine's Day box of goodies, unbeknownst to her.)
Combine my diet wagon-diving with a total absence of physical movement, and what did I get? A nearly instantaneous arrival of BACKFAT. This morning, I was greeted by a larger-than-usual roll at my backside that wasn't there two weeks ago. WTF???? Can I not have a moderate therapeutic slide down JunkFood Lane without my body immediately responding with the unpleasantness of a bloated bellly and tight jeans? Criminy! Life isn't fair sometimes.
I guess that's what I get for getting older and getting more in touch with my body. Somehow I have arrived at a point where my body is now used to eating healthy and being moved on a regular basis (Who'da thunk it?). So when I shuck the healthy lifestyle thing in favor of comfort food and growing roots on furniture, it responds with physical reminders of its displeasure, a la Backfat.
I'm in the middle of the "Boo-hoo, poor-poor-pitiful-me, this-sucks-ass" phase of weight gain. However, I have also decided to eat a healthy lunch today, avoid the beckoning call of Haagen-Daaz and do a little booty-shakin' in the hula hoop later. My deepest wish is that my body will be so happy to be back in the groove of health, that it will remove my Backfat roll just as quickly as it took putting it there.
Do you hear me, my beautiful body? I promise I'll be nicer to you...
**************************************************************************************
For your consideration and/or comment:
What is the first change you notice on your body when you gain a little weight?
**************************************************************************************
Visit www.TheresaRose.net to receive your Daily Dose of Mojo!
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
It's not that I've gone overboard on the food consumption front (I've certainly done much more damage over my lifetime of binge eating). Yes, I've eaten slightly worse than I normally do -- I admit to a Haagen-Daaz single scoop cone of Chocolate Peanut Butter, two slices of Filippo's delish Pizza Margherita and a glass of wine, more than one of those evil Decaf Mochas from Starbucks that I just can't seem to kick, and a few extra handfuls of my tasty home-roasted cashews and almonds. I ate and/or drank these delectable extras because I was sick, dammit, and I deserved it. (Oh yeah. I also pilfered my daughter's Valentine's Day box of goodies, unbeknownst to her.)
Combine my diet wagon-diving with a total absence of physical movement, and what did I get? A nearly instantaneous arrival of BACKFAT. This morning, I was greeted by a larger-than-usual roll at my backside that wasn't there two weeks ago. WTF???? Can I not have a moderate therapeutic slide down JunkFood Lane without my body immediately responding with the unpleasantness of a bloated bellly and tight jeans? Criminy! Life isn't fair sometimes.
I guess that's what I get for getting older and getting more in touch with my body. Somehow I have arrived at a point where my body is now used to eating healthy and being moved on a regular basis (Who'da thunk it?). So when I shuck the healthy lifestyle thing in favor of comfort food and growing roots on furniture, it responds with physical reminders of its displeasure, a la Backfat.
I'm in the middle of the "Boo-hoo, poor-poor-pitiful-me, this-sucks-ass" phase of weight gain. However, I have also decided to eat a healthy lunch today, avoid the beckoning call of Haagen-Daaz and do a little booty-shakin' in the hula hoop later. My deepest wish is that my body will be so happy to be back in the groove of health, that it will remove my Backfat roll just as quickly as it took putting it there.
Do you hear me, my beautiful body? I promise I'll be nicer to you...
**************************************************************************************
For your consideration and/or comment:
What is the first change you notice on your body when you gain a little weight?
**************************************************************************************
Visit www.TheresaRose.net to receive your Daily Dose of Mojo!
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Friday, February 13, 2009
Getting Schooled
I am immersing myself in the promotion of my book and speaking engagements. My swirling, twirling eyeballs are pretty accurate indicators of how I am faring.
There is so much to understand. I had a two-hour consultation with a speaking coach today, and I scribbled every last bit of info that was hurled toward me in rapid-fire fashion. I learned about angles, hooks, pitches, segments, discounts, contracts, press kits, show producers, and other critical elements to a successful brand launch. (That's what I am now -- a brand. Eeesh.) Of course, I am hugely grateful for the opportunity to learn from someone who knows the ins and outs of my industry, enabling me to hone my message and save a bunch of time and energy. I knew meeting her was a good thing even as I felt my guts churn and my hair fall out from the stress. There is SO MUCH TO DO! I am having a serious "Calgon, Take Me Away!" moment.
Here is a sample of the chatter in my brain: What non-profit organizations will I contact about speaking engagements and will I remember everything I need to negotiate? How can I morph the teachings of Opening the Kimono into acceptable and desirable corporate-speak? How will I get all of the pieces together for my Press Kit? What are the dozens of 30-second pitches I need to create in order to call TV producers? (Uff da...that last one makes me want to urp my healthy Whole Foods lunch.)
Such is the life of getting big. We run into our crap that keeps us small. Our fears. Our doubts. Our negative self-talk. Our deeply-held beliefs that we can't possibly pull this thing off. ("Who the hell do I think I am?" is not-so-silently running in the background.)
Just when I feel like I want to hurl myself in front of a bumper-stickered hybrid car in the Whole Foods Parking Lot, I get an email from a long-lost friend who just finished reading Opening the Kimono. My buddy reminded me of what was truly important. Here is a portion of what she wrote:
"Wow. I mean, some people have funny, and even poignant tales to tell, but it takes a real talent to put the words together to make a meaningful and interesting story. You have a gift. I think you’ve found your calling girl! Your book arrived in my mailbox last week. I was busy that day (Wednesday I think??), so the book sat on my kitchen counter screaming “read me, read me, read me damnit!” So the next afternoon, I took the book out onto my sunny deck and started reading. During the course of my read fest, the kids came home from school, the sun sank behind the trees (creating a chill that I was oblivious to), and dinner time was approaching. I finished the book in one sitting. It really touched me. I was literally laughing out loud through tears in my eyes...I’ve loaned your book to a good friend of mine who I know will love it. Hope you are well, please take care, and hurry up and write another book. The world needs to hear more from Theresa Rose."
I'm workin' on it, girl, I'm workin' on it.
**********************************************************************************
For our consideration and/or comment:
Do you ever freak-out when you start going after your dreams?
**********************************************************************************
Visit www.TheresaRose.net to receive your Daily Dose of Mojo!
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
There is so much to understand. I had a two-hour consultation with a speaking coach today, and I scribbled every last bit of info that was hurled toward me in rapid-fire fashion. I learned about angles, hooks, pitches, segments, discounts, contracts, press kits, show producers, and other critical elements to a successful brand launch. (That's what I am now -- a brand. Eeesh.) Of course, I am hugely grateful for the opportunity to learn from someone who knows the ins and outs of my industry, enabling me to hone my message and save a bunch of time and energy. I knew meeting her was a good thing even as I felt my guts churn and my hair fall out from the stress. There is SO MUCH TO DO! I am having a serious "Calgon, Take Me Away!" moment.
Here is a sample of the chatter in my brain: What non-profit organizations will I contact about speaking engagements and will I remember everything I need to negotiate? How can I morph the teachings of Opening the Kimono into acceptable and desirable corporate-speak? How will I get all of the pieces together for my Press Kit? What are the dozens of 30-second pitches I need to create in order to call TV producers? (Uff da...that last one makes me want to urp my healthy Whole Foods lunch.)
Such is the life of getting big. We run into our crap that keeps us small. Our fears. Our doubts. Our negative self-talk. Our deeply-held beliefs that we can't possibly pull this thing off. ("Who the hell do I think I am?" is not-so-silently running in the background.)
Just when I feel like I want to hurl myself in front of a bumper-stickered hybrid car in the Whole Foods Parking Lot, I get an email from a long-lost friend who just finished reading Opening the Kimono. My buddy reminded me of what was truly important. Here is a portion of what she wrote:
"Wow. I mean, some people have funny, and even poignant tales to tell, but it takes a real talent to put the words together to make a meaningful and interesting story. You have a gift. I think you’ve found your calling girl! Your book arrived in my mailbox last week. I was busy that day (Wednesday I think??), so the book sat on my kitchen counter screaming “read me, read me, read me damnit!” So the next afternoon, I took the book out onto my sunny deck and started reading. During the course of my read fest, the kids came home from school, the sun sank behind the trees (creating a chill that I was oblivious to), and dinner time was approaching. I finished the book in one sitting. It really touched me. I was literally laughing out loud through tears in my eyes...I’ve loaned your book to a good friend of mine who I know will love it. Hope you are well, please take care, and hurry up and write another book. The world needs to hear more from Theresa Rose."
I'm workin' on it, girl, I'm workin' on it.
**********************************************************************************
For our consideration and/or comment:
Do you ever freak-out when you start going after your dreams?
**********************************************************************************
Visit www.TheresaRose.net to receive your Daily Dose of Mojo!
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monday, February 9, 2009
Blissful Monday Morning
It isn't often that I can claim to be having a blissful Monday morning, but this is one of those rare moments.
Early on in the weekend, I got all of the laundry done. All critical domestic chores have been completed. Last night, I prepared hubby's and daughter's lunches in advance. I slept like an angel, having wonderful dreams of standing-room only speaking engagements, runaway book sales, and cute man-boys. This morning, I was awakened by my beloved in the most delicious of ways...twice. :) WOO HOO! I'm ready to kick off a glorious day.
Yes, there is a lot of work to be done. There's always a lot of work to be done. I have serious work to do with Serious Mojo Publications. But I am happy to say that I have love in my heart, wind beneath my wings, and a righteous circle of family and friends that make this journey so damn joyful.
What a great way to start a week.
******************************************************************************************
For your consideration and/or comment:
What is one amazing thing you have in your life?
******************************************************************************************
Visit www.TheresaRose.net for your Daily Dose of Mojo!
Early on in the weekend, I got all of the laundry done. All critical domestic chores have been completed. Last night, I prepared hubby's and daughter's lunches in advance. I slept like an angel, having wonderful dreams of standing-room only speaking engagements, runaway book sales, and cute man-boys. This morning, I was awakened by my beloved in the most delicious of ways...twice. :) WOO HOO! I'm ready to kick off a glorious day.
Yes, there is a lot of work to be done. There's always a lot of work to be done. I have serious work to do with Serious Mojo Publications. But I am happy to say that I have love in my heart, wind beneath my wings, and a righteous circle of family and friends that make this journey so damn joyful.
What a great way to start a week.
******************************************************************************************
For your consideration and/or comment:
What is one amazing thing you have in your life?
******************************************************************************************
Visit www.TheresaRose.net for your Daily Dose of Mojo!
Blissful Monday Morning
It isn't often that I can claim to be having a blissful Monday morning, but this is one of those rare moments.
Early on in the weekend, I got all of the laundry done. All critical domestic chores have been completed. Last night, I prepared hubby's and daughter's lunches in advance. I slept like an angel, having wonderful dreams of standing-room only speaking engagements, runaway book sales, and cute man-boys. This morning, I was awakened by my beloved in the most delicious of ways...twice. :) WOO HOO! I'm ready to kick off a glorious day.
Yes, there is a lot of work to be done. There's always a lot of work to be done. I have serious work to do with Serious Mojo Publications. But I am happy to say that I have love in my heart, wind beneath my wings, and a righteous circle of family and friends that make this journey so damn joyful.
What a great way to start a week.
******************************************************************************************
For your consideration and/or comment:
What is one amazing thing you have in your life?
******************************************************************************************
Visit www.TheresaRose.net for your Daily Dose of Mojo!
Early on in the weekend, I got all of the laundry done. All critical domestic chores have been completed. Last night, I prepared hubby's and daughter's lunches in advance. I slept like an angel, having wonderful dreams of standing-room only speaking engagements, runaway book sales, and cute man-boys. This morning, I was awakened by my beloved in the most delicious of ways...twice. :) WOO HOO! I'm ready to kick off a glorious day.
Yes, there is a lot of work to be done. There's always a lot of work to be done. I have serious work to do with Serious Mojo Publications. But I am happy to say that I have love in my heart, wind beneath my wings, and a righteous circle of family and friends that make this journey so damn joyful.
What a great way to start a week.
******************************************************************************************
For your consideration and/or comment:
What is one amazing thing you have in your life?
******************************************************************************************
Visit www.TheresaRose.net for your Daily Dose of Mojo!
Friday, February 6, 2009
Livin' on EmmaTime
My li'l punkin' has finagled her way into staying home from school today, citing a bad case of the sniffles. What does that mean for my work day? HA! What work day?
I had originally scheduled two important appointments and planned on attacking several big To-Dos. However, when I got "The Call" from Emma's teacher yesterday afternoon informing me that Em seemed under the weather, I knew it meant only one thing. My Friday magically morphed into Her Friday.
Needless to say, a list revision was required. I rescheduled the two appointments -- yet again -- and pared down my To-Dos to include only the essentials. There are now four things on the list, two of which are a phone call and an email. God willing, I'll get one of them done.
It is nearly impossible to work when Emma is home, because she thinks it's FREE day! It's time to spend with Mom talking or playing!! When I push back on her, gently telling her that Mommy still needs to work, she looks at me like Christina Crawford must have looked at her Mommie Dearest after the wire hanger "incident".
As I write this blog, Emma is laying right behind me, reading her Rosa Parks biography for her upcoming book report. She is somewhat appeased since she can still be in Mom's vicinity. If I'm lucky, I'll finish my tasks before she finishes her book, and everyone will be peaceful and happy. (Although it's difficult to concentrate when she informs me of her progress by announcing, "Look, Mama! I'm on page 166 out of 188!" after every friggin' page.)
Actually, I don't mind having to forego my workday in favor of a Momday. This week has been a very productive one for me, and, frankly, I deserve to chillax a little bit. Once we both finish our respective duties, there's a very good chance that we'll be watching Scooby Doo and the Witch's Ghost or Willa Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. I think the best medicine my daughter needs right now is a heaping dose of of movies and Mom-cuddles.
It will do me some good too.
*********************************************************************************
For your consideration and/or comment:
What was your favorite thing to do when you were home sick?
*********************************************************************************
Visit www.TheresaRose.net to receive your Daily Dose of Mojo!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I had originally scheduled two important appointments and planned on attacking several big To-Dos. However, when I got "The Call" from Emma's teacher yesterday afternoon informing me that Em seemed under the weather, I knew it meant only one thing. My Friday magically morphed into Her Friday.
Needless to say, a list revision was required. I rescheduled the two appointments -- yet again -- and pared down my To-Dos to include only the essentials. There are now four things on the list, two of which are a phone call and an email. God willing, I'll get one of them done.
It is nearly impossible to work when Emma is home, because she thinks it's FREE day! It's time to spend with Mom talking or playing!! When I push back on her, gently telling her that Mommy still needs to work, she looks at me like Christina Crawford must have looked at her Mommie Dearest after the wire hanger "incident".
As I write this blog, Emma is laying right behind me, reading her Rosa Parks biography for her upcoming book report. She is somewhat appeased since she can still be in Mom's vicinity. If I'm lucky, I'll finish my tasks before she finishes her book, and everyone will be peaceful and happy. (Although it's difficult to concentrate when she informs me of her progress by announcing, "Look, Mama! I'm on page 166 out of 188!" after every friggin' page.)
Actually, I don't mind having to forego my workday in favor of a Momday. This week has been a very productive one for me, and, frankly, I deserve to chillax a little bit. Once we both finish our respective duties, there's a very good chance that we'll be watching Scooby Doo and the Witch's Ghost or Willa Wonka and the Chocolate Factory. I think the best medicine my daughter needs right now is a heaping dose of of movies and Mom-cuddles.
It will do me some good too.
*********************************************************************************
For your consideration and/or comment:
What was your favorite thing to do when you were home sick?
*********************************************************************************
Visit www.TheresaRose.net to receive your Daily Dose of Mojo!
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
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