tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-44610738930950183672024-03-05T15:06:23.362-08:0025 Before 25 -- Turned 30 Before 30Conquering the quarterlife crisis with a checklist.Mariannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01226693797877865368noreply@blogger.comBlogger40125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461073893095018367.post-37992637438159812262012-04-15T21:12:00.000-07:002012-04-15T21:12:52.425-07:00Dear Self...Don't complain, don't complain, don't complain.<br />
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Sometimes, like 12 midnight and I clearly am behind on the work I was planning to do, I wonder if what I'm doing is really worth it. The job, the freelance job, the extra projects...are they really worth it if it means staying up late, waking up early, being tired?<br />
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Right now I am eating a box of Girl Scout Cookies (Thin Mints, my nemesis). Hours ago I ran a mile and a half, going up to an 8 min/mile pace on the treadmill. And right now I'm undoing all of that. Actually the canoli I had right after my gym session undid most of that already. But details, scmetails.<br />
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And then I have to remind myself that I am in charge of my own actions. I have made all of the decisions that have led me to where I am now. This is my own choice. So damn it, if you are going to eat the whole foil of cookies, own up to it. And if you are going to feel bad that your lifestyle has no room for the fun stuff, remind yourself that you have plenty of opportunities that many people don't.<br />
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Dear self, you have it good. Now back to work, you.Mariannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01226693797877865368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461073893095018367.post-43914561644147091722012-01-27T21:08:00.000-08:002012-01-27T21:13:02.692-08:00Watching Wicked: Times I Wish I Had More Talent<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Thanks to <a href="http://www.nycgo.com/broadwayweek/?a=1&b=1" target="_blank">NYC Broadway Week</a>, I finally got to see <a href="http://www.ticketmaster.com/artist/965961?camefrom=CFC_WICKED_hometicketsny" target="_blank">Wicked</a> this week. Most people have nothing but good things to say about this musical, so I was excited. And my somewhat high expectations weren't at all disappointed.<br />
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The singing, acting and overall plot/themes of this musical were amazing. So much so that I downloaded the soundtrack and have been listening to it ever since. I even created a station on Pandora. Seriously, I'm obsessed. <br />
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Coming from the Philippines where the majority of the population wish they had musical and dramatic talent, I usually feel like a foreigner because of two things: 1) I HATE karaoke. Sure, I'll sing along to the radio in my room by myself but reading words off a screen in front of a crowd? No thanks. 2) I have absolutely no desire to be famous. Some in my family wanted me to go into broadcast journalism because they wanted to see me on TV and in my grandmother's words, I shit you not, writing is boring.<br />
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Those two things still haven't changed (and probably never will), but after watching Wicked, a part of me wishes I had the pipes to belt out "Defying Gravity." Seriously, listen and see if you aren't at least inspired to say "I'm doing what I want to do, and you can kiss my ass if you don't like it!"<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.youtube.com/embed/3XwmA0jyWMk?feature=player_embedded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>
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<i>"I'm through with playing by the rules of someone else's game. Too late for second-guessing, too late to go back to sleep. It's time to trust my instincts, close my eyes... and leap!" </i></div>
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Even though I joke about starving artists, I have a lot of respect for these ubertalented actors and singers who give it their all every night. Most of them have had to serve coffee or fold lots of shirts to get to where they are, but damn if they show that it was all worth it. I love people with that kind of drive and passion. <br />
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I guess my point is, after spending 40+ hours a week in the past how many years in front of spreadsheets, Word documents, and other web analytics, I've forgotten what it's like to be inspired. To enjoy something for the sheer beauty of it, not because it leads to a click, a download or a dollar. <br />
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I want my mind blown more often.Mariannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01226693797877865368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461073893095018367.post-79676444847546837562012-01-21T20:23:00.000-08:002012-01-22T12:14:10.322-08:00Paycheck to Paycheck: A Shoe-Addict's VersionWhen I got my very first freelancing opportunity, I gave myself a little reward in the form of boots. Today, I bought another pair -- not because I got another gig, but because I've been thinking about these boots for a long time and finally decided to just freaking do it.<br />
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A part of me thinks dropping $100+ on a pair of rubber shoes is redonkulous, but another part of me thinks "Whatever, practical self. You're no fun." Good thing my paycheck from my latest freelance assignment came in just as I got home.<br />
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P.S. No, I haven't only bought two shoes since I first started doing freelance work.<br />
P.P.S. No, I don't spend every freelance paycheck on shoes. Although, man, that's a life.<br />
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Also, just to make this a little less shallow:<br />
<b><i><br /></i></b><br />
<b> <i>“Give a girl the right shoes, and she can conquer the world.”
―
Marilyn Monroe</i></b>Mariannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01226693797877865368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461073893095018367.post-4647104143175103702012-01-11T22:55:00.000-08:002012-01-11T22:55:19.458-08:00Life Advice from Old People<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/10/health/elderly-experts-share-life-advice-in-cornell-project.html" target="_blank"><i>The New York Times</i> has a great piece on life advice from 80-something-year-olds</a>. Maybe it was the arrogance/ignorance of youth, but as I'm getting older I find that there is soooo much more to learn than I imagined. So advice from people who've been around much longer is valuable. A few things that I'm taking to heart:<br />
<br />
<b>On work: </b>Besides the usual do-what-makes-you-happy blah blah, there's this: "keep in mind that a promotion may be flattering and lucrative but not
worth it if it takes you away from what you most enjoy doing." Life-work balance is hard to achieve, but I'm working on it.<br />
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<b>On getting older: </b>"Embrace it. Don’t fight it. Growing older is both an attitude and a
process." and
“Don’t waste your time worrying about getting old." I'm loving 26 so far.<br />
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<b>On travel: </b>"Travel more when you’re young rather than wait until the children are grown or you are retired." and "'Travel is so rewarding that it should take precedence over other
things younger people spend money on.' Create a bucket list now and
start whittling it down." I think this blog covers the bucket list part, but this is a good reminder for me to skip the new purse/shoes/skirt and plan more adventures, invest in experiences.<br />
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<b>On attitude: </b>"You are not responsible for all the things that happen to you, but you
are completely in control of your attitude and your reactions to them...Adopt a policy of being joyful." I'm a firm believer in mind over matter. Your attitude affects your actions, so choose a positive one. I will wake up tomorrow and think "I am awesome." OK, maybe not, but I will say "I have coffee, let's do this."Mariannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01226693797877865368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461073893095018367.post-84268906542418796312012-01-08T00:01:00.000-08:002012-01-08T00:01:55.352-08:00WanderlustAn email from <a href="http://travelzoo%20/" target="_blank">Travelzoo </a>about an Iceland Northern Lights gave me such wanderlust that I decided that I am done with boring vacations and need to go on more adventures. So no more all-inclusive, free poolside cocktails and buffets, but more live-like-a-local, off-the-beaten-path trips.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via <a href="http://mountainguides.is/">MountainGuides.is</a></td></tr>
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Who is up for walking on glaciers and seeing the Northern Lights in Iceland? <br />
<br />
Also on my travel list:<br />
New Orleans -- I'm still debating whether I want to experience Mardi Gras or not<br />
Quebec, CA<br />
Barcelona, Madrid & Andalusia, Spain (already been to parts of this, but I want to go back)<br />
<br />
Obviously there are more places I'd like to visit, so this is an ongoing list without a deadline. Plus, I'd be broke and jobless if I tried going everywhere.<br />
<br />Mariannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01226693797877865368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461073893095018367.post-18373565483668356962011-12-29T15:24:00.000-08:002011-12-29T15:29:54.899-08:00I Am the Master of My Fate<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Image via <a href="http://www.etsy.com/listing/62786159/compass-necklace-invictus-quote" target="_blank">Etsy</a></td></tr>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
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Out of the night that covers me, </div>
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Black as the pit from pole to pole, </div>
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I thank whatever gods may be </div>
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For my unconquerable soul. </div>
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<br /></div>
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In the fell clutch of circumstance </div>
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I have not winced nor cried aloud. </div>
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Under the bludgeonings of chance </div>
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My head is bloody, but unbowed. </div>
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Beyond this place of wrath and tears </div>
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Looms but the Horror of the shade, </div>
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And yet the menace of the years </div>
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Finds and shall find me unafraid. </div>
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It matters not how strait the gate, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
How charged with punishments the scroll, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I am the master of my fate, </i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I am the captain of my soul. </i></div>
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<br /></div>
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-- "Invictus" by William Ernest Henley<br />
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Such a great poem. It never fails to inspire.Mariannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01226693797877865368noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461073893095018367.post-62228290619184125002011-12-28T15:35:00.000-08:002011-12-28T16:16:43.246-08:00Anticipating 2012I wanted to write a year in review post -- because it seems like everyone is doing their own Top # Things in 2011 -- but I think my last post from September pretty much sums up the highlights. God, that makes my life sound boring.<br />
<br />
So! Instead, upon realizing that I don't have anything specific to look forward to in 2012, that's what we're going to talk about.<br />
<ul>
<li><b>To trying more new things. </b>Do you know the feeling of accomplishing something you didn't think you could possibly be good at? It's amazing. Like good sex amazing. If you don't, I highly suggest throwing yourself out of your comfort zone as soon as possible and doing something crazy. Like a pole dancing class. Haha, only half joking here. I still have a Groupon for tennis lessons and sewing lessons to use up, but I'm going to stop ignoring this list and try crossing more things off, and not just because 30's slowly creeping up. </li>
<li><b>To staying hungry.</b> I just read <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/30/opinion/mona-simpsons-eulogy-for-steve-jobs.html" target="_blank">Steve Jobs' sister's eulogy</a> (yes, I'm late) and it's inspiring to know someone who did what he loved, and worked at it -- hard. I want that kind of determination and passion. Though I may put in long hours, I feel like I've been walking around with an <i>eh</i> attitude. What's being pessimistic going to do for me? If I'm going to do something, I might as well give it 100%. (Also, I still have a little less than 4 years to make <a href="http://www.forbes.com/sites/jeffbercovici/2011/12/19/30-under-30-in-media/" target="_blank">this list</a>.) Sorry in advance for the constant emails, coworkers. </li>
<li><b>To getting what you want.</b> They say you don't get what you don't ask for. And in all of the numerous stories about why women are behind in the workplace, this is always one of the reasons. I know I'm guilty of this, including outside work, like in relationships and being kind to myself. So I'm going to be unapologetic about what I want, what I need and what I deserve. </li>
</ul>
Of course, there are some not so profound things I'm excited about: like a work ski trip, planning more travels, and possibly another hair color change. <br />
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What's in store for your 2012?Mariannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01226693797877865368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461073893095018367.post-13912661310548880872011-09-27T21:25:00.000-07:002011-09-27T21:27:47.882-07:00Time for an Update?Who's still reading this? And why? I checked in on this tonight and was a little mortified to find that my most recent post was about pole dancing. I mean, if a random person found this and got their impression of me through only my blogs, I'd like to be able to offer more than the fact that I learned to dance like a stripper.<br />
<br />
Anyway, a quick recap of my progress on this list since June:<br />
<ul>
<li>I've been doing Krav Maga somewhat regularly and love it. It's a different approach compared to yoga and running, both of which require no aggression, and hey, at the end of the day, it's nice to be able to hit things and be healthy about it. Also, I got pink MMA gloves. </li>
<li>I took a bike riding lesson and learned how to balance...but I couldn't quite get myself to pedal without tipping over, sooo... I guess I'll have to take more lessons. (Do you bike riders secretly have abs of steel from all that balancing? Do you also have more cushion back there? Because ow. I totally get why they have padded shorts now.)</li>
<li>I got highlights! I'm ashamed to say I checked myself out lots of times after getting them, but they're gorgeous. If I wasn't so afraid of frying my hair, I'd go for a second round. But you'll have to wait a few more months, lovely chemicals. </li>
</ul>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyriNtGo0AK4e9ddx3ndioi_H5hPDD3nMQvbVjbUAL6osPfapjdwCCpRGnajmYufgy2Tte75zQtuiMnGEUPjNryxGqwdBvHCQ3fgCOWY9f-Qzjg871Ogs9GsjirmU9wzaxB2AhPkTRdHhb/s1600/2011-06-15+18.16.49.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyriNtGo0AK4e9ddx3ndioi_H5hPDD3nMQvbVjbUAL6osPfapjdwCCpRGnajmYufgy2Tte75zQtuiMnGEUPjNryxGqwdBvHCQ3fgCOWY9f-Qzjg871Ogs9GsjirmU9wzaxB2AhPkTRdHhb/s200/2011-06-15+18.16.49.jpg" width="150" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The during.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<ul>
<li>On the Filipino front, so far I've done a volunteer project with other members of <a href="http://www.core-nyc.org/">CORE </a>at a nursing home last spring (or was it in the fall?), read a new translation of Jose Rizal's <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Filibusterismo-Penguin-Classics-Jose-Rizal/dp/0143106392/">El Filibusterismo,</a> and taken on the role of editor of their semi-annual/quarterly newsletter. What can I say? My job follows me everywhere. But it's good to make my contributions however I can.</li>
<li>Attempting to teach myself Spanish is harder than I thought, in that my ambitious self will set a crazy lesson plan and then my lazy self will say "That's ridiculous, I know espanol muy bien." BUT! I've got a trip to Puerto Rico planned and while that won't make me fluent, I'll at least get to say arroz con pollo, donde esta el bano? y quiero cafe por favor.</li>
</ul>
Did I miss anything? Until next time, blogosphere. Toodles!Mariannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01226693797877865368noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461073893095018367.post-14748189449767809002011-06-19T16:36:00.000-07:002011-06-19T19:16:31.918-07:00Me, My Career and a Stripper PoleWhen I was first making this list, I briefly considered adding "Take a poledancing class" as one of the to-dos. Hell, it seemed like everyone and their grandmas are doing it and it's definitely something I wouldn't do on a typical day. But after that thought passed, I realized that there are lots of other things I'd rather do than to learn how to work the pole. (For example, <a href="http://twentyfivebefore25.blogspot.com/2010/07/15-shooting-range-done.html">shoot a rifle</a>.) And honestly, that's not my kind of sexuality. My kind of sexuality is more like "Wow, did you memorize that whole encyclopedia? That's freakin sexy." Haha, just kidding. Kinda.<br />
<br />
So when I got an email from one of the top editors last week that they needed more people to be in a photoshoot for a story about a woman getting the nerve to take a poledancing class, my initial reaction was to laugh. And I did exactly that in my reply. But I also said, "Sure, I'll do it." Why?...Why not? I believe that when an opportunity presents itself, you take it (as long as it's not illegal, anyway).<br />
<br />
To be honest, a part of me thought I was just going to stand there and look pretty, while the subject of the story was the one who had to do all the pole work. Wrong. We got to the S Factor studio where we were all lead to a very purple room with shiny poles and mats. After a warm up that involved Pilates and yoga-like core work, I found myself learning how to do some moves that I'd be embarrassed to even recreate ever.<br />
<br />
And then came the pole. At this point I was beyond concerned about looking ridiculous. (I mean, would you be if you smacked your ass in front of your coworkers 5 minutes into the class?) I was just concerned about flying off the pole and looking idiotic. But turns out, it's not impossible and I managed to do a few, um, rounds. <br />
<br />
So there you have it. My intro to the stripper pole, in case all the backup careers fall through. Pictures, you ask? Hell no. But if you look out for next next month's issue of the magazine, you might see me in the background.Mariannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01226693797877865368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461073893095018367.post-29107915466671075182011-06-12T19:12:00.000-07:002011-06-12T19:13:05.374-07:00#10: Self-Defense Classes -- Kick!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://assets1.grouponcdn.com/images/site_images/1156/6686/Krav-Maga-Academy3_grid_6.jpg?S8pfaxvc" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="194" src="http://assets1.grouponcdn.com/images/site_images/1156/6686/Krav-Maga-Academy3_grid_6.jpg?S8pfaxvc" width="320" /></a></div>I've taken the first step to learning to kick ass, literally. Thank you Groupon for offering 5 Krav Maga classes for $39.<a href="http://gr.pn/l98yvA"> I've signed up</a>!<br />
<br />
Maria Menounos did it, so that means I can do it, too right? I might wait a couple of weeks or so to take my first class because after taking a Pilates-fusion class today at NYSC, I got another reminder of just how out of shape I am. Seriously, why did no one snap me out of my injury-caused laziness and drag me to a gym sooner?Mariannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01226693797877865368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461073893095018367.post-35435815013157153762011-06-05T12:17:00.000-07:002011-06-05T12:17:48.561-07:00Yes, I'm Still Here...and Hellooo Summer!I guess it's time to revive this blog. But seriously, how do bloggers do this daily? Do you spend all day on your computer? Because then, no thanks.<br />
<br />
Anyway, my summer so far has consisted of lots of (much needed) cocktails, more consistent trips to the gym and walks around NYC, including one benefiting <a href="http://support.yai.org/goto/mmagno">YAI Network, a non-profit dedicated to helping people with developmental disabilities</a> (If you can recall, <a href="http://twentyfivebefore25.blogspot.com/2010/06/30-minute-5k-almost-there.html">I signed up for this last year to</a><a href="http://twentyfivebefore25.blogspot.com/2010/06/30-minute-5k-almost-there.html">o</a> and ended up running instead of walking because I was getting impatient. 30 something minutes for a 5k? God, I miss my more fit self. But this time it was more about supporting a good cause than hitting a PR, so <a href="http://support.yai.org/goto/mmagno">please donate if you can</a>.).<br />
<br />
If you can't tell how excited I am about hot weather and more freedom, then, well, I can't help you.<br />
<br />
What's in store this summer?<br />
<ul><li>Celebrating the summer solstice with yoga in Times Square. I've signed up for the 7:30am class. I clearly like to torture myself. <a href="http://www.timessquarenyc.org/about_us/events_solstice.html">Join me and register before spots fill up!</a></li>
<li>Connecting with my Filipino roots through <a href="http://core-nyc.org/">CORE. </a></li>
<li>Brushing up on Espanol, trapezing, hair coloring, bikram-yoga-ing, and learning how to ride a bike!</li>
</ul>Y tu?Mariannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01226693797877865368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461073893095018367.post-81180092427847322052011-06-05T12:11:00.000-07:002011-06-05T12:11:12.403-07:00#2: Rockclimbing -- Check!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjntcuYBUjENQgWG-y3M8byccZtJpxBpiJccZPt0C3FR140ZheVeXUjsC7UfnqNlPZiVHeM0cBVFSbtNk2_N2OQSuDMSZ0g2TD1P5mM4HmodAi-cW1SYd95MkEFkse_UhmyBbvPYkd4ko47/s1600/rockclimbing.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjntcuYBUjENQgWG-y3M8byccZtJpxBpiJccZPt0C3FR140ZheVeXUjsC7UfnqNlPZiVHeM0cBVFSbtNk2_N2OQSuDMSZ0g2TD1P5mM4HmodAi-cW1SYd95MkEFkse_UhmyBbvPYkd4ko47/s320/rockclimbing.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br />
Last December (yeah this post is half a year late) I and some awesome friends went to<a href="http://www.brooklynboulders.com/"> Brooklyn Boulders </a>to do a little climbing. Is it just me, or do most physical activities look easier when other people are doing them? It took some time to get used to stepping on and gripping on to the tiny "rocks" but after a few tries, I made it CLOSE to the top. Haha! I clearly need to work on my upper body strength and flexibility. <br />
<br />
I recommend doing some stretching before and after because I was SORE from head to toe the day after. But it was completely worth it. What a workout!Mariannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01226693797877865368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461073893095018367.post-61811187869797417252011-03-23T19:34:00.000-07:002011-03-23T19:35:54.939-07:00I Whip My Hair Back and ForthActually, I can't. With all this hair, I'd probably break my neck. I'm not 10 years old and agile like Willow Smith after all.<br />
<br />
So remember that<a href="http://twentyfivebefore25.blogspot.com/2010/09/updates-galore.html"> little change I made to this list about trying a new hair color</a>? It's harder to achieve than I thought. After checking with the only stylist I trust with scissors to my hair, I'm a little scared. She made the very good point that having a new hair color would mean having to touch up my roots. For a low-maintenance person, that's just way too much work. And commitment. I'm not ready!<br />
<br />
So I'm going to take her very wise advice to go with highlights instead. I may never have Julianne Moore's hair (sigh). To make sure I don't chicken out, I bought the <a href="http://www.travelzoo.com/local-deals/deal/1170">Travelzoo deal for a cut, color and gloss package at Ted Gibson's salon.</a> (The deal is still open so if you want to get your hair did, go get it!) Laying down the cash means I'll actually go and do it. That's a piece of weight loss/workout advice I learned at work that I am using towards my vanity. Sounds about right.<br />
<br />
Maybe I'll get something similar to Katie Holmes' hair color (and style even?), although my hair color is close enough to this already:<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://cdn.buzznet.com/media/jj1/2011/03/holmes-decision/katie-holmes-decision-nyc-premiere-03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://cdn.buzznet.com/media/jj1/2011/03/holmes-decision/katie-holmes-decision-nyc-premiere-03.jpg" width="213" /></a></div><br />
What do you guys think? Ted Gibson, I leave my hair in your hands!Mariannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01226693797877865368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461073893095018367.post-65967808955842055882011-03-08T18:50:00.000-08:002011-03-08T19:05:45.188-08:00Take This Love and Take It Down<i>Climbed a mountain and I turned around</i><br />
<br />
<a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/album/landslide/id309646617?i=309646673">Landslide </a>is one of those songs that seems to come into my life when I need it: about four years ago when my uncle died of cancer, <a href="http://damomma.com/">super mommy blogger Damomma</a> wrote a very touching blog post using the lyrics to talk about her grandmother's death. If a blog could give out hugs, her blog post did just that. I'd link to her post, but she doesn't archive posts older than two years. Frankly when I worked for the not-to-be-named mommy magazine, I didn't really feel like I should be writing for them. I didn't belong in that club. But reading Damomma's posts was a highlight of my job. If I could write anything like Liz, I'd be pretty freakin happy.<br />
<br />
<i>Then I saw my reflection in the snow covered hills<br />
But the landslide brought it down</i> <br />
<br />
I remember listening to this song more than six years ago too, riding the train on my weekend trips to Long Island. I felt like I had to choose between two lives. Or that I was straddling between them. <br />
<i><br />
Oh mirror in the sky, what is love?</i><br />
<i>Can the child within my heart rise above?</i><br />
<i> </i><br />
And now, at another big transition point, tonight's Glee episode (don't judge me, I still refuse to call myself a Gleek) brought me back to this song.<br />
<br />
<i>Can I sail through the changing ocean tides?</i><br />
<i>Can I handle the seasons of my life?</i><br />
<br />
I have to.<br />
<br />
<i>Well I've been afraid of changing, cause I built my life around you</i><br />
<i>But time makes you bolder, children get older</i><br />
<i>I'm getting older too.</i><br />
<i>Well I'm getting older too.</i><br />
<br />
Change is good. Right?Mariannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01226693797877865368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461073893095018367.post-30235663884252923012011-01-08T18:08:00.000-08:002011-01-08T18:13:30.673-08:00Hello, 2011 (One Week Late)I wanted to end 2010 by highlighting the good parts:<br />
<ul><li>I got a promotion at work. Yay! Let me tell you, the relief that comes with having health insurance again is indescribable. </li>
<li>I made a very big step towards the next part of my life. I can't elaborate on this, but you'll have to take it as it is.</li>
<li>I completed 9 out of the 25 on my list: rock climbing (update to come soon! And by soon I mean, in the next month or so), drinking for my career (aka <a href="http://twentyfivebefore25.blogspot.com/2010/04/9-happy-hour-no-this-isnt-just-excuse.html">industry happy hour</A>), <a href="http://twentyfivebefore25.blogspot.com/2010/07/15-shooting-range-done.html">shooting a rifle</A>, treating myself to a <a href="http://twentyfivebefore25.blogspot.com/2010/04/17-spa-day-ahhhow.html">spa day</A>, <a href="http://twentyfivebefore25.blogspot.com/2010/05/no-no-soy-mexicana-sino-filipina.html">learning CPR</A>, testing my limit (and taunting my sanity) by <a href="http://twentyfivebefore25.blogspot.com/2010/08/week-without-coffee-done.html">forgoing coffee</A>, <a href="http://twentyfivebefore25.blogspot.com/2010/04/22-donate-blood-check.html">donating blood</A>, <a href="http://twentyfivebefore25.blogspot.com/2010/11/23-cook-filipino-meal-well-check.html">cooking</A>, and <a href="http://twentyfivebefore25.blogspot.com/2010/05/25-in-progress.html">joining a Filipino-American organization</A>.</li>
</ul>And now for 2011, I hope to regain some balance between my personal and professional life (maybe even resuscitate my social life), slowly restart my fitness routine and continue learning. But before that, I'm off to a trip to the Philippines tomorrow for some family time -- and squeezing in some traveling too. See you in 2 weeks!<br />
<br />
What's in store for you for 2011?Mariannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01226693797877865368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461073893095018367.post-59808686444955590022010-12-23T18:25:00.000-08:002010-12-23T18:25:02.036-08:00Eat, Pray, Love, Lather, Rinse, Repeat What I learned from watching <i>Eat, Pray, Love</i>:<br />
<ol><li>Eating a plate of pasta with wine by yourself is OK.</li>
<li>If your jeans don't fit because of too much of #1, buy bigger jeans.</li>
<li>Lounging in lingerie by yourself is great.</li>
<li>Don't get into a relationship with an actor.</li>
</ol>...wait, I already knew all that!<br />
<br />
I really wanted to like this movie. Pizza, pasta, gelato, James Franco, Javier Bardem, and beaches. What was not to like? <br />
<br />
In a way, Elizabeth Gilbert was going through this "WTF is my life?" period the same way I kind of am. She wanted change and to experience things she had always put off. But after eating lots of pasta, pizza and Indian food and praying, what exactly has changed? Besides a bigger waistline and a hotter man, NADA.<br />
<br />
She decides to take a 1-year vacation because she felt lost -- lost in her marriage and lost in the relationship she jumps into after that marriage failed. She learns Italian, how to not live like a workaholic American, gets spiritual help from some ethnic people, and that it's OK to get into another relationship. And the movie ends with just that. Liz throws herself into Javier Bardem's sexy arms. <br />
<br />
Did I just spend an hour drooling over pizza for a story without a climax or resolution? Great.Mariannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01226693797877865368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461073893095018367.post-56908693154892334612010-12-11T13:26:00.000-08:002010-12-11T13:27:39.281-08:00I'm 25. Aaaack!Happy birthday to me!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQBHpWydZkJmy3QGlMkh2P16gMJbDUTzz0gvrYnUX5_2SBtZUae" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQBHpWydZkJmy3QGlMkh2P16gMJbDUTzz0gvrYnUX5_2SBtZUae" width="179" /></a></div>Today I no longer fit in to the 18-24 years old age bracket. From now on, any survey I fill out will have the 25-29 box checked. That is, until I turn 30 (oh my god.). And so because I figured out months ago that there was no way I would complete this 25 before 25 list , I am turning it into a 30 before 30 list. Tada!<br />
<br />
Am I setting myself up for another impossible to-do list? Maybe. But I've got 5 years to figure it out. Here are the new additions:<br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
<b>26. Learn to ride a bike.</b><br />
I never learned. I owned a tricycle and after I outgrew that, I had no desire to transition to a 2-wheeler. I mean, it's not like I would have been allowed to ride it anywhere outside our house. Blame my overprotective parents and my natural clumsiness. So why now? Because I'm sick of hearing people's gasps when I tell them I don't know how to ride a bike. Yeah, you heard that right.<br />
<br />
<b>27. Get my driver's license.</b><br />
I got started on this when I was 18. Got my learner's permit, paid for driving lessons, drove on a parkway and notorious Queens streets without hitting anyone (phew!), then dropped it because I had bigger priorities, namely, getting a magazine job. But after tackling that on my to-do list and realizing that I may not always live in New York City (I love you NYC, but you're a high-maintenance lover, and it's about time I got the upperhand in this relationship.), I'm accepting that being able to drive is pretty important. So watch out, pedestrians!<br />
<br />
<b>28. Explore the Philippines.</b><br />
I grew up in the Philippines. I've spent 4 (or 5?) vacations there. Next month, I leave for another trip to the motherland. But it's a shame that I've never really explored the country beyond the cities where my family live. I think I've spent more time going to malls than doing anything cultural. Not to knock the awesome shopping experience -- malls with ice skating rinks and concierge service? Hell freakin yeah! But it's time I got to know my country a little better. For starters, here's a nice <a href="http://lifestyle.inquirer.net/super/super/view/20101204-306875/25-THINGS-TO-DO-IN-THE-PHILIPPINES-">list with things to do in the Philippines. <span id="goog_2133115466"></span><span id="goog_2133115467"></span></a><br />
<br />
<b>29. Lead a volunteer project.</b><br />
In the past year I've been a proud member of <a href="http://www.newyorkcares.org/">New York Cares</a>, a non-profit dedicated in providing needed services through volunteer work. I figured I needed to do something better with my life besides work, eat, shop and sleep. Last summer I became a Team Leader, who is a volunteer in charge of specific projects. Partly because of my schedule and partly because I haven't found the perfect project, I haven't put that "Team Leader" badge to use, but that will change. (BTW, I strongly suggest becoming a member. These projects are some of the most fulfilling work I've done and you get a reminder that there are people who are willing to work for something other than personal gain.)<br />
<br />
<b>30. ____________________</b><br />
I'm not really sure what to put for this one. Should I learn a new skill, like sewing or pottery? Take up swimming as I originally planned? Go on vacation by myself? Run a marathon (even though I'm still recovering from injury. Maybe we can alter that to a HALF marathon)? Buy my own place? (I can already hear NYC real estate laughing at me.) What do you think?Mariannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01226693797877865368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461073893095018367.post-47353774309632083822010-11-07T18:12:00.000-08:002010-11-07T18:57:24.900-08:00#23: Cook a Filipino Meal Well: CHECK!Let me just start by saying that I'm not completely new to cooking. Though serving up steak or a Thanksgiving turkey is out of the question for now (or probably for ever re: turkey), I've made my own alfredo sauce from scratch. I can make a mean veggie lasagna. And recently, I decided to make pies.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3J_XniZB3uMpukr4xVFvfZzu4abKEUYQdL3FjqF8CQCs6c7DtuBGlRr4LlvQQOKbklxbl2UtjtrWUrlRt7rMjxka6h86mkZ5RIMm2HHY2qb51HyStqgcZEj2q55L-iwlmJZFKxi2LDynX/s1600/DSC02043.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3J_XniZB3uMpukr4xVFvfZzu4abKEUYQdL3FjqF8CQCs6c7DtuBGlRr4LlvQQOKbklxbl2UtjtrWUrlRt7rMjxka6h86mkZ5RIMm2HHY2qb51HyStqgcZEj2q55L-iwlmJZFKxi2LDynX/s320/DSC02043.JPG" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My very first creation -- a lumpy apple pie. But a delicious lumpy apple pie.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>My second pie was more aesthetically pleasing: a sweet potato -- hand mashed, not the canned stuff -- pecan pie. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFpSjjYd8sNiCwj9RWpZ1inIvBmttfEN50RTaHfuSX1nugcFHQr_tFx8xdb6POooZfW7Ds8Up2QET-mF8Kvwialt7Q_JPaDBNq2QKdyHAeHiGrFoAg35k3hEZ6YBkXj-kuE0f_kEji4JDs/s1600/301d9baaa10a__1289180715000.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFpSjjYd8sNiCwj9RWpZ1inIvBmttfEN50RTaHfuSX1nugcFHQr_tFx8xdb6POooZfW7Ds8Up2QET-mF8Kvwialt7Q_JPaDBNq2QKdyHAeHiGrFoAg35k3hEZ6YBkXj-kuE0f_kEji4JDs/s320/301d9baaa10a__1289180715000.jpeg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My cell phone camera doesn't do this justice.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br />
</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Though for these pumpkin muffins I turned to the canned stuff.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWKwGkpE_3kDLROtRn0kH2C46nd7GO9LVdpzpRryxfmoLaIqQU36_WG6qzeVS17b6RCyJ7cy7N73cFwFqWXElU_META4mD8JkCuXtrFDZTeCUE1LJyeDayRj2eGDRWa2Fl1OmoXzbZ0EqR/s1600/DSC02111.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWKwGkpE_3kDLROtRn0kH2C46nd7GO9LVdpzpRryxfmoLaIqQU36_WG6qzeVS17b6RCyJ7cy7N73cFwFqWXElU_META4mD8JkCuXtrFDZTeCUE1LJyeDayRj2eGDRWa2Fl1OmoXzbZ0EqR/s320/DSC02111.JPG" width="320" /></a></div><br />
But, aside from Italian food and seasonal baked goods, I haven't done anything ethnic. Sadly, the closest thing I've made that's Filipino is a cheesecake flan. (I'll take up a challenge if it means dessert.)<br />
<br />
So that's why I needed to put #23 on this list. And finally...<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Fm00bBszzNjURLWyj9Aln3TnLg1ze_sOsJJBfF3YgNKFxIO25EjO2rFXdXz_HUOl6Og3mqk8eW9Zfqr-dblg69EzEaOBMDvTbrAv-Hq1POENcd2adj3YPj6V_FZ36S0Smh2ihkvWTs7p/s1600/DSC02115.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2Fm00bBszzNjURLWyj9Aln3TnLg1ze_sOsJJBfF3YgNKFxIO25EjO2rFXdXz_HUOl6Og3mqk8eW9Zfqr-dblg69EzEaOBMDvTbrAv-Hq1POENcd2adj3YPj6V_FZ36S0Smh2ihkvWTs7p/s320/DSC02115.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">It may look like it's swimming in oil, but there was 0 oil in this.</td></tr>
</tbody></table><br />
Filipino Cooking 101: Chicken Adobo -- recipe courtesy of the<a href="http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/filipino-chicken-adobo-recipe/index.html"> Food Network.</a> (Their recipe was much simpler than Filipino cookbooks. Figures.) My very Filipino family loved it, so it passes the test. Next time I'll add those peppercorns because for an ethnic dish this wasn't at all spicy. But now, onto more complicated Filipino dishes!Mariannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01226693797877865368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461073893095018367.post-80690046336518153862010-10-30T18:32:00.000-07:002010-10-30T18:35:16.553-07:00Ballet Flats: So Pretty, So Bad for Your FeetPoop.<br />
<br />
I already knew that I wasn't supposed to be walking around in ballet flats. But I keep a pair at my desk at work anyway in case my outfit that day does not go with heels. The last time I wore them, my <a href="http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/plantar-fasciitis/DS00508">plantar fascia </a>hurt. Like I had to take time off from running, hurt.<br />
<br />
Two weeks ago (when I took a <a href="http://twentyfivebefore25.blogspot.com/2010/10/i-punch-like-girl.html">kickboxing</a> class) I got a terrible charley horse in my sleep and my calf was SORE. So I thought I'd give my calves a break and wear the flats for a day. How bad could it be? Well lets just say that while I was recounting this to my podiatrist he made the "Ooh, you shouldn't have done that" face. <br />
<br />
Safe to say I will be spending the rest of this fall not running. Bye-bye, 5K PR. For now.<br />
<br />
When I tell my coworkers (who are well-versed in foot injuries from running) about having plantar fasciitis I get the same "That's awful!" reaction. But to tell the truth, I'm a little relieved. I honestly thought I may have had a fracture. But x-rays showed otherwise, so PHEW. I just need lots of rest, ice, stretching, and staying away from damned flats. <br />
<br />
I'm consoling myself by taking cabs (doctor-recommended) instead of trekking all over Manhattan when I have errands and buying a new pair of heels (on sale, at like 80% off baby!).<br />
<br />
Talk to pro-athletes and they'll most likely tell you to "Listen to your body" as a key piece of advice. My body's definitely yelling at me. I'm listening now!Mariannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01226693797877865368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461073893095018367.post-91989499249632590712010-10-10T15:50:00.000-07:002010-10-10T15:54:38.976-07:00I Punch Like a GirlToday I finally got myself to take a kickboxing class at the gym. I figure it would act as a stepping stone towards an actual boxing class. But kickboxing is definitely not a substitute for a boxing. Proof? The lone male who wanted to take the class this morning because he missed the regular boxing class during the week walked out during the warmup. (What, do they not play Britney Spears while sparring? They should.)<br />
<br />
While this class was more cardio-focused, that didn't mean that it was easy. The instructor yelled out a combination of moves as if we were all supposed to know what we were doing. I have a hard time remembering my left from my right. I'm glad I wasn't the only one who spent a good chunk of the class looking at other people to figure out what to do with myself. But it was a GREAT workout. I spent the entire hour moving and sweating and now my lower body is SORE. More sore than after going for a long run.<br />
<br />
I should probably take on the self-defense class before taking a boxing class. And inject more testosterone in my system. Kidding about the 2nd part.Mariannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01226693797877865368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461073893095018367.post-48714110954669958312010-09-19T09:56:00.000-07:002010-09-19T09:58:27.659-07:00Updates GaloreLet's get right to it:<br />
<br />
1. Last weekend was the <a href="http://www.nyrr.org/races/2010/r0911x00.asp">FITNESS Mind, Body, Spirit Games 4-mile race</a> and the <a href="http://ww5.komen.org/">Susan G. Komen's 5K</a>. I ran the latter and walked the former with a friend. Though I had to take walking breaks during the 4-miler (running uphill is hard!) I beat my last 5k's pace by a few seconds, finishing in a little over 43 minutes. Yay. The walk wasn't timed, but I'm just glad I didn't need to crawl because I was still exhausted from the day before. Since last weekend I've been trying to get rid of a cold and catching up on work, so no running for me. The next 5K race is in a couple of weeks so I should probably start again, eh?<br />
<br />
2. I am making another change to the list. Let's face it -- I will probably never have time to swim. For one thing, the nearest pool I have free access to is uptown. And another thing, public pools = yuck (and <a href="http://articles.latimes.com/2010/sep/12/news/la-heb-pools-20100912">might cause cancer?</a> But then again what doesn't cause cancer). SO! I am changing #12 to... trying a new hair color! Since my last hair disaster 4 years ago when I fried my hair from too much chemical straightening, I have vowed to lay off any treatments until I was 25. I think I've been good to my hair since then, keeping it au naturale. But I've always had redhead envy and I'm getting bored with my hairstyle, so we'll see how this turns out. My skintone probably won't go well with a shade like Julianne Moore's or Marcia Cross' (sigh) but a brighter tone will look nice against all the black clothes I tend to wear in the colder months.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img src="http://www.marieclaire.com/cm/marieclaire/images/Z7/MCX050108BERED018-lg.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Forget blondes, red heads should get all the attention.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>Mariannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01226693797877865368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461073893095018367.post-64223056755629508832010-09-04T09:12:00.000-07:002010-09-04T09:12:05.982-07:00You Can Do It Put Your Back Into ItFor anyone who's ever doubted their capabilities,<a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2010/09/04/world/asia/04driver.html"> The New York Times has a profile of 69-year-old Cha Sa-soon from Korea who just got her driver's license after 960 attempts.</a> Congrats, lady! She grew up in poverty, entered formal schooling late and never finished because a little thing called life got in the way, but still studied at dawn and late at night to pass the exam. Proof that if you put your mind and effort to something, it's going to get done. <br />
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I thought about putting "Get my driver's license" on this list, but I got realistic. I have to put everything on my calendar -- from dinner with friends to renewing library books -- just so I'd actually have time to do them. This isn't going to happen in the next 3 months (crap!). Cha had more trouble passing the written exam because of her literacy level, but I passed that part with flying colors (I'm a nerd, what can I say). It's the not-hitting-anything-with-a-vehicle part that I have trouble with. But it's good to know that, like this other stubborn Asian lady, with enough practice and determination, I can do it. <br />
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Also, I really hope a non-shooting related post would get rid of those Google ads that make it seem like I'm an NRA member.Mariannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01226693797877865368noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461073893095018367.post-4149634424784614872010-08-20T16:10:00.000-07:002010-08-20T19:44:37.903-07:00Giving Up on #1... Or Not?Getting something published in print was the first thing that came to mind when putting together this list because it was part of my original career goals. When I went to school for journalism, the plan was to be an on-staff writer at a magazine. But in media, technology shapes the business, and I found myself going down a road to be a web editor/writer -- which isn't a bad thing. It's the future. Or the present, really. <br />
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So putting this on the list was a way to get back to that original goal (without losing my full-time job, heh). But I'm going to be honest with myself and say I don't have the time or heart to do it anymore. Pitching and writing freelance work is another full-time job on its own -- it's not as easy as Carrie Bradshaw and other TV frauds make it seem. And I'd like to be able to have a life outside of work. Spending time in front of a screen is just not how one should spend life. There. <br />
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Or...for a non-quitter's version, after some shuffling at work I've found myself contributing to the print pages a little more. Because I want to keep this blog separate from my job (it's that whole I-want-to-keep-my-job reason again), I won't mention names, but if you know me, like <i>know me</i>, you know where I work, so pick up a copy and scan the front pages for my bylines. No 2,000 in-depth articles (yet?), but it's my name in print.<br />
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I like to think of this as a mature decision because I don't like giving up on anything. Seriously. (I'm still working on being a Sudoku master.) But you have to realize when you have too much on your plate and decide what's more important in your life.<br />
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Peace.Mariannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01226693797877865368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461073893095018367.post-68837050707925271742010-08-08T14:14:00.000-07:002010-08-08T14:15:01.701-07:00"Each step is one less step you have to take."That's what an old-ish man told his running partner as she (and I) made the halfway mark at the <a href="http://www.active.com/running/new-york-city-ny/sgt-keith-a-ferguson-5k-runwalk-across-the-brooklyn-bridge-2010">Sgt. Keith A. Ferguson 5k this morning.</a> Technically this wasn't my first 5k, but it was the first one I ran through its entirety -- no walking breaks! <br />
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Total time: 33:51 seconds. Bizarre, considering I ran/walked <a href="http://twentyfivebefore25.blogspot.com/2010/06/30-minute-5k-almost-there.html">this one</a> in about 31 minutes but I'm just glad I fought every urge to stop running and walk instead and finished it. One step at a time. Thanks for the advice, old runner man.<br />
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Speaking of old people, there were runners of all ages this morning. The female overall winner was a 16-year-old (ah, to be an energetic youth), while there were 70-79 year-olds who finished in less time than I did. To be honest, one of the things that kept me going was seeing kids as young as 6 and old people run past me. If they can do it, why can't I? (Also, kudos for being ridiculously fit.)Mariannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01226693797877865368noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4461073893095018367.post-7198422461738015702010-08-02T20:45:00.000-07:002010-08-02T21:01:32.966-07:00Week Without Coffee - DONE!I don't know why I chose to give up coffee as part of my to-do list. Yes, I like a challenge, and yes, a part of me likes to inflict pain on myself, but I also like to think that I wanted to test myself in case I ever got addicted to something and needed rehab. I know now that rehab and withdrawal from serious substances must be AWFUL. (I'm rooting for you Lindsay Lohan!)<br />
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I started my <a href="http://twentyfivebefore25.blogspot.com/2010/07/week-without-coffee-day-2.html">Week Without Coffee on a Saturday</a>. I figured with two days of the weekend under my belt, I'd be more capable of facing the work week sans cafe. Did it really make a difference? Meh.<br />
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Because I knew I would forget about this whole blogging on a regular basis thing, I kind of live-blogged (does Google Buzz count as blogging? Sure.) the entire week.<br />
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<span class="z19Dle" id="col-z12mxl0h3wfkttukn22wy33osojacn5e2"><span class="zo"><b>Monday, Day 3 </b>of Week Without Coffee. I want to cry. I want chocolate. (Honestly, I don't think Monday was the hardest day. I was just half asleep most of the time.)</span></span><br />
<span class="z19Dle" id="col-z13rcvehrye2e3s3122wy33osojacn5e2"><span class="zo"><b>Day 4 </b>of Week Without Coffee. 1 cup of black tea at 7:30, 1 withdrawal headache at 10. Nice.</span></span><br />
<div class="YJ"><span class="z19Dle" id="col-z13qwbd4dsbeyrtw204cfnsgin2lwt2gpcc"><span class="zo"><b>Day 5. </b>Woke up with a headache, first thought: iced coffee, mmmm. I'm not caving! (I lay in bed ready to give up on this, I swear. But as much as I love coffee, I am also hard-headed. I did not cave.)</span></span></div><div class="YJ"><div class="YJ"><span class="z19Dle" id="col-z12xvfdpttmfidovn22wy33osojacn5e2"><span class="zo"><b>Day 6. </b>At the elevator on my way to my desk, I want to cry. Upon opening my inbox, I want to cry. Cofffeeeeeeeee. (Did I mention I wanted to cry? But at the end of that day, I surprisingly got a lot done. Random burst of productivity or was I actually getting by without my preferred caffeine dose?)</span></span></div><div class="YJ"><span class="z19Dle" id="col-z12ze3aixvvdvrudc22wy33osojacn5e2"><span class="zo"><b>Day 7. </b>I'm pretty sure I'm craving comfort food as a substitute for coffee. I can't stand tea right now. (I remember having a cup of black tea - my 2nd - on my desk and wanting to fling it against the wall. But I didn't. I also didn't finish it. I also skipped a new workout I really wanted to try because I was exhausted, hungry and had no patience for hoity-toity men who do yoga without their shirts on. I want to workout, not have a fashion show, damnit. Be flamboyant in your own space. I considered getting an iced coffee because technically the last time I had coffee was the Friday morning the week before, but I didn't. Instead I had some Chipotle. No regrets.)</span></span><br />
</div><div class="YJ"></div><div class="YJ"><span class="z19Dle" id="col-z12ze3aixvvdvrudc22wy33osojacn5e2"><span class="zo">You'd think after all this the first thing I'd do on Saturday morning was have a cup of coffee. But nope. I had a banana and black tea and went for a morning run. AND THEN, I had coffee with my pancakes. Aaand then I passed out on my couch having barely finished my cup. Ah, gotta love having a high caffeine tolerance. </span></span><span class="z19Dle" id="col-z12xvfdpttmfidovn22wy33osojacn5e2"><span class="zo"> </span></span><span class="Ia dm2Ocf"></span></div><table cellpadding="0" class="cf gz"><tbody>
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</tbody></table><span class="z19Dle" id="col-z13qwbd4dsbeyrtw204cfnsgin2lwt2gpcc"><span class="zo"></span></span><span class="Ia dm2Ocf"></span></div><span class="z19Dle" id="col-z13rcvehrye2e3s3122wy33osojacn5e2"><span class="zo">What did I get out of all this? I learned that if I ever need to go to rehab, I would cry. But I might also make it. And that if I didn't have coffee, I'd compensate with chocolate, cake and other junk food. I'll stick to coffee. </span></span><span class="z19Dle" id="col-z12mxl0h3wfkttukn22wy33osojacn5e2"><span class="zo"></span></span>Mariannehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01226693797877865368noreply@blogger.com2