tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-22596465009626555042012-02-16T01:21:08.978-08:00Find the path to your best lifeCristinanoreply@blogger.comBlogger971100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-10825942280993773082012-01-10T13:22:00.000-08:002012-01-10T13:22:50.145-08:00

A new year a new you, right? Well there is something amazing as the calendar flips over. It does give you that sense of a new start. For me I want to focus on health, happiness, saving money, writing, and enjoying life. I think I can do those things with love and compassion. May this year bring you joy.

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-39078994768522279962011-12-20T13:42:00.000-08:002011-12-20T13:47:32.104-08:00

This year I haven't let the holidays overrun my life. I've been shopping since the Saturday after Thanksgiving, which is early for me. I shopped on Small Business Saturday, but I avoided Black Friday. Seriously, that scene isn't worth it. I've also been wrapping presents already, which is a first for me. Usually, I'm in a frenzy trying to wrap everything up the night before. I've also sent out

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-60216192983504455672011-11-08T21:05:00.000-08:002011-11-08T21:09:43.343-08:00

November is not just a time to be thankful and eat until you burst. It's also National Novel Writing Month.The whole idea is to write 50,000 words in the month of November. So my friend Ruth and I are working on writing our own respective novels. I admit that my goal doesn't go as high as 50,000 words, because I do have to work as well, but the act of making writing a regular part of my schedule

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-16731588772554465812011-10-03T13:22:00.000-07:002011-10-03T13:22:21.746-07:00

I don't know about you, but I love October. It's all about leaves quaking in the wind, and then eventually falling to the ground. It's also about pumpkin carving or painting, which is an activity that I try to do each year. This year my nephews are close, so I'll get them involved, too. But in the past I've done it without any kids. Back in New York we used to celebrate with a party called fall

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-51443369816997964802011-09-28T14:25:00.000-07:002011-09-28T14:25:49.724-07:00

“I have found that among its other benefits, giving liberates the soul of the giver.” —Maya Angelou I have been thinking about this quote, and I wanted to share it. Giving back is something that has been part of my life for a long time. I don't remember the first time I volunteered, but I know that each that I've made the effort to give back and do something for people it gives much more back

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-32684379678668803382011-09-14T15:18:00.000-07:002011-09-14T15:18:06.794-07:00

Since the beginning of time stories have connected us. The cave men and women drew pictures telling a story on cave walls. Sharing stories orally came next and it continues today. What prompted me to write about this topic was that I led a QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) Suicide Prevention training yesterday, and as each individual in the room shared stories you could almost see them connecting

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-86494659464037071522011-09-08T14:51:00.000-07:002011-09-08T14:51:31.070-07:00

So I've been thinking a lot about attitude, and I just heard Lenny Kravitz sing, "You've got to believe in yourself." Admit it you're now singing along with me to this song. I've been working on eating better and exercising, and this process is making my attitude take a nose dive. It's not that I haven't seen any results, but the main result that I am seeking, which is weight loss, is so elusive

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-38768045454939285212011-08-31T15:27:00.000-07:002011-08-31T15:27:55.269-07:00

Most of you know that I read a lot. Usually, I have three or more books going at the same time. Right now, I've got two. I'm trying to focus. Anyway, I just finished a book that was so good that I want to tell you all about it. The book is called, "How I Learned to Live a Better Story: A Million Miles in a Thousand Years". This memoir offers insights on how you can change your story if the one

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-22463260489531913192011-08-29T12:42:00.000-07:002011-08-29T12:42:40.186-07:00

Today my nephews Luke and Adam started their first day of school in a new school. My nephew Adam was a bit nervous, and he asked, "Who will I sit by at lunch?" Such an insightful question from a seven-year-old. I told him to talk to someone who's nice in his class and ask if he could sit by him or her at lunch. (I hope that worked!) The truth is that we all struggle sometimes with who to sit by.

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-60278331589160386962011-08-14T22:23:00.000-07:002011-08-14T22:23:24.114-07:00

Get out your tissues, because this movie will make you cry. I read the book a long time ago before it even became a sensation, and I kept telling other people to read it, too. A lot of times when a book is made into a movie I'm disappointed, but this time I really felt like they got it right. "The Help" delivers, and it gives you a glimpse of what it was like to live in the South, during a

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-31097859438264800942011-08-11T14:25:00.000-07:002011-08-11T14:27:01.688-07:00

Since I have a tradition of celebrating my birthday for at least a week or sometimes longer it tends to get a bit out of hand. So fun! This year was no exception. I celebrated before my birthday and during my birthday as well as after my birthday with friends and family. This year it was decided to visit Los Angeles for the birthday weekend. The idea was to celebrate in style...and find a spot

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-74634981309491664292011-08-02T11:32:00.000-07:002011-08-02T11:32:32.109-07:00

Sometimes it's hard to just enjoy each day as it comes. This is especially true when you're anticipating an exciting trip. I'm headed to Cali to meet Ruth and Mary Beth for my birthday extravaganza. It is said that a lot of what makes a trip so great is the anticipation. Looking forward to vacations, fun events, or visitors is part of the fun. That being said there are opportunities for

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-74193758249512463552011-07-26T14:57:00.000-07:002011-07-26T14:57:36.351-07:00

This might seem like a silly question, but I need a boost, and a piece or of dark chocolate would do nicely. If my friend Mary Beth was around I'd be in great shape, as she's known to have emergency chocolate on hand. Unfortunately, I don't have any chocolate. Sure I could go to the store around the corner and down the street, but I've already been there today to pick up healthy breakfast items.

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-24972534371466311192011-07-15T10:36:00.000-07:002011-07-15T10:36:55.651-07:00

Summertime is my favorite time of year especially in Colorado when the weather is well in a word, amazing. You can't help feeling good because the sun is shining, and everyone is in such a good mood. The only challenge is everyone is just so busy. As we're all trying to squeeze in as much as possible in the summer it becomes overwhelming. This summer I'm planning much less, as I like to have

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-13144530833143280782011-07-07T15:31:00.000-07:002011-07-07T15:31:08.615-07:00

Here are today's quotes about friends: "A true friend is someone who thinks you are a good egg even though he knows that you are slightly cracked." -Bernard Meltzer "Life is partly what we make it, and partly what it is made by the friends we choose." -Tennessee Williams "Friends are those rare people who ask how we are and then wait to hear the answer." -Anonymous Friends make the world go

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-90784995408099152612011-07-01T09:29:00.000-07:002011-07-01T09:32:26.210-07:00

Well one thing I've found out is that moving is difficult and blogging seems to fall by the wayside. Well now that I'm somewhat moved in...I still have some boxes to sort through so I'm back to writing in my blog. Speaking of which I've got too many books. Yes, I have a book problem. I put my myself on a book diet so that I only buy one book at a time, which helps. And now I am downloading

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-91053561527582210842011-06-03T09:55:00.000-07:002011-06-03T09:55:49.620-07:00

For some reason after a long weekend four days of work just seems well endless. It's some sort of a mind trick. When you're back on Tuesday you just can't believe that you are back at your desk being asked to gasp, work. Sometimes life just isn't fair. Then you get to Friday, and you're so excited for the weekend to begin. At least now I'm not as obsessed with getting to the weekend. Don't get

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-22768729352792068592011-06-01T08:12:00.000-07:002011-06-01T08:12:34.458-07:00

Well I just got back from San Diego. I've been there more than a few times, as I have family there. I decided to visit over Memorial Weekend, as my friend Mary Beth moved there less than a month ago. It's definitely a cool place to live. You can choose from various beaches. Just remember to wear sunscreen other than the spray kind, as that doesn't always offer coverage. Since my skin hasn't seen

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-8786179619504453022011-05-20T08:22:00.000-07:002011-05-20T08:24:32.165-07:00

The truth is that I've become an NPR junkie. I listen to it each day as I'm driving to work. On Fridays, NPR features "StoryCorps," which is basically a story told by two family members or friends about a particular meaningful part of one person's life. I've heard a father interviewed by his daughter about growing up in the depression. I've heard a story about a nun who made a difference in the

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-36001173619506038052011-05-18T14:41:00.000-07:002011-05-18T14:41:40.744-07:00

It seems that music can heal the brain. I didn't get to see the movie that illustrates this idea, "The Music Never Stopped," but it's on my list for Netflix. The movie is based on "the last hippie" case study by Oliver Sachs, neurologist and writer, whose brain research was the basis for the movie, "Awakenings". Basically, the premise is that music heals. A beign brain tumor has left Gabriel

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-60263480400193066262011-05-17T08:44:00.000-07:002011-05-17T08:44:00.460-07:00

Well I'm in search of an apartment. In a city where there are more apartments to chose from it might be easier...but it's more of a challenge here in the Roaring Fork Valley. I thought I had found the apartment in Basalt, but alas it went to someone who had a three-day jump on me. I was bummed. I'm going to see another apartment today. So cross your fingers. I enjoy seeing apartments so it's

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-40055717991022738452011-05-11T15:06:00.000-07:002011-05-13T13:24:19.067-07:00

“Our lives, along with the weather and happiness, will forever be up and down and sideways and all over the place. That’s how life and the weather are, and that is as good as it gets. How do I know that? Simple. It is all I've got. If the future does not exist and the past is gone, then this must be as good as it gets, because there is, right now, nothing else. And even if you don't believe the

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-65254766040294473842011-05-09T14:07:00.000-07:002011-05-09T14:07:58.258-07:00

Well I think spring/summer is here. At least it felt like summer on the Front Range. We went to Byers to celebrate Mother's Day on Saturday with the Gair family. My grandma loved having everyone there. She's been a mom for 67 years. Pretty amazing! My mom has been one for almost 38 years. I'm not that old, but my brother is turning 38 this year. We went to lunch and then to the Denver Botanical

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-38039351101540182862011-04-25T15:39:00.000-07:002011-04-25T15:44:36.109-07:00

Well I got one answer about how to handle plateaus. Read my friend Ruth's blog at www.insightfulish.com where she gives her take on this particular question. I thought her insights were spot on. (That is a phrase that Australians use a lot, and I think Americans should use it more often, too.) I also wanted to update you on my eye area injury. Today one of my coworkers saw it and said she

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-90801108173009769742011-04-22T08:24:00.000-07:002011-04-22T08:24:59.803-07:00

Well last night I worked out with a personal trainer for the first time. This is my first time actually working out with a trainer, and it was great to have someone else directing me to workout for an hour. (No slacking off is allowed). If only I could work out with a trainer five days a week. No really just this weekly meeting sets a tone for the rest of the week's activities. Last week my

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-60979019499883343232011-04-21T09:00:00.000-07:002011-04-21T09:00:00.316-07:00

My friend James posted a picture of the gas price he paid ($4.199) at a pump in California yesterday and it prompted a lot of comments. It got me thinking about the cost of gasoline. Yesterday I paid $3.79 for gas, and that was at one of the cheapest places in the Roaring Fork Valley. It could be worse as you see what it's costing in California. In the European Union the average gas price runs

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-72019502616390992172011-04-19T15:04:00.000-07:002011-04-19T15:04:52.543-07:00

I don't know about you, but my life has a soundtrack. It's often changing, but we all have those favorite songs, those songs that bring us back to a moment in time, and those songs that define an era in our lives. Music brings people together. I love it when I see someone jamming along to a song in their car. (Probably, because that's usually me). I also love it when you're at a concert, and

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-5209306149454946252011-04-18T10:12:00.000-07:002011-04-18T10:12:01.475-07:00

My mom is known to utter this phrase. My brother and I are actually going to write a book a book called, "Be careful or you might...". The thing is that this time she was right. I was just going on a hike with my friend Ruth. My mom's worry was that I would slip on the ice from the remaining snow. Oh it was slippery but that wasn't why I needed to be careful. Instead I ran smack into a branch.

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-16094103909339828472011-04-15T11:29:00.000-07:002011-04-15T11:29:45.487-07:00

One of the most fun ways to celebrate where you live is to be a tourist in your own city. Of course, it helps when you have a friend coming in town. My friend Ruth will be arriving in Glenwood on Friday. We've been friends since the 5th grade. So my thoughts if Ruth's up for it is to enjoy the tourist happenings in Glenwood. There's swimming and soaking in the hot springs pool, riding up the

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-62971574549460304542011-04-14T14:51:00.000-07:002011-04-14T14:51:39.997-07:00

Here's the Quote of the Day. Make it a wonderful one!

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-85852776672331287382011-04-13T10:52:00.000-07:002011-04-13T10:54:07.622-07:00

Last night I went for a walk in the neighborhood. Sometimes it seems like I don't have any neighbors, during the winter everyone goes directly in the garage, and they're in for the night. I have to admit in the winter once I get home I'm usually home. On nice days I might venture out for a walk, but it's much less often. Instead the treadmill seems like a better choice. In the spring and

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-67913580777533507522011-04-12T11:09:00.000-07:002011-04-12T11:09:40.833-07:00

Spring fever. I got a definite case of it. The warm weather is making me so happy. Right now I'm reading a book called, "The Emotional Calendar" by Dr. John Sharp. It seems that seasons, emotional highspots and lowspots on your own personal calendar, as well as seasons such as sports, TV series, school year starting and ending, and holidays, can all affect your mood. It's really about being aware

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-92113416304437387072011-04-07T14:47:00.000-07:002011-04-07T14:47:29.196-07:00

So I'm debuting my painting on this blog. So my painting grew from thinking about women and the layers that each women possesses. Here's my statement: "Women are layered, complex, and vibrant. This painting represents the texture and depth of women and all they offer to the world. It also represents embracing and honoring my own layers." I hope that you enjoy the show. Don't forget, tomorrow, 5

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-57910079071967404312011-04-06T13:01:00.000-07:002011-04-06T13:32:07.608-07:00

I don't know about you, but for me sitting in one room listening and learning is actually tougher than before. Why? Well one of my theories is that with technology and our need to multi-task constantly it is actually difficult to just sit and listen. Yesterday I was in a eight-hour training. I am now a certified QPR Suicide Prevention trainer. Yeah! (Even so just sitting there I realized

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-12366747460993487632011-04-04T10:13:00.000-07:002011-04-04T10:18:46.591-07:00

Kathy Stover's Art Piece (I'll feature mine later. I need to download the photo. Yesterday Carrie, Bill, and I put up the Women's History Art Show at Basalt Library. The show looks great, and it offers a lot of diversity from 12 local artists. Even with the variety of pieces somehow it fits together. It is really satisfying now that the show is up and on display. Creating art for the show was

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-39809623997265871842011-03-31T08:39:00.000-07:002011-03-31T08:47:04.939-07:00

So I'm recommending a book to read. It's "A Discovery of Witches," by Deborah Harkness. I know that some of you know that I devoured all of the Twilight series books. Guilty. These types of books are my guilty pleasures. Those of you who know me well also know that I read literature and nonfiction books of substance as well. So I'm not apologizing for falling for this book about an Oxford

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-12753513806027781262011-03-30T09:09:00.000-07:002011-03-30T09:09:31.465-07:00

The question is whether it's too early to feature my blog on facebook. I think I'm committed to regular updates, but as you can tell last year that wasn't really the case. This year is different. Yesterday for lunch Carrie and I went skiing. It was a bluebird day. Check out this photo. What a beautiful day. And getting outside was such a great way to be reminded of why I live here in a place

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-73175740511801758262011-03-29T10:03:00.000-07:002011-03-29T10:03:40.373-07:00

What do I want to say today? I want to write about what I'm grateful for in my life. I am so grateful for my family and my friends. They sustain me through thick and thin. They stand by me no matter what. I am also grateful to live in such a beautiful place. Today the sun came out after yesterday's snow storm. For lunch, Carrie and I are heading for the slopes to enjoy the 17 inches of new

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-60264303218032353712011-03-28T09:42:00.000-07:002011-03-28T09:42:00.889-07:00

Woke up to snow today. It is a bit dreary. Can you tell I'm ready for spring? I had a good weekend, and I've almost completed my art. I actually did a painting, which is a first for me. It feels good to try something different, though photography and writing are still my first loves. My photos didn't seem to embrace the theme, "Our History is Our Strength". I'm not sure my painting does that

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-29952034872426877832011-03-25T09:47:00.000-07:002011-03-25T09:47:32.879-07:00

I just read a blog about someone who took a year off to hike, travel, and write. (www.momonvacation.blogspot.com) It was inspiring to read about someone taking the "jump" as she described it. It sounds like a wonderful idea. It's not something that I can do completely right now, but I can take a small leap. This weekend I'm working on my art project for my Women's History Art Show. Carrie and I

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-28508974759373528702010-06-03T21:45:00.000-07:002010-06-03T21:45:59.829-07:00

So far my Fridays have been filled with taking care of me, which is why I haven't blogged. This week I'm about to launch a new blog called Dragonfly Creative Consulting for Nonprofits. In this blog I will blog weekly about leading and working in nonprofits in today's reality. As this is my chosen field, I want to put some thoughts to paper about how to help nonprofits excel. This will complement

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com23tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-56616772230063498742010-05-11T21:33:00.000-07:002010-05-11T21:33:22.006-07:00

So I didn't walk on the moon, however, this step for me is sort of like moonwalking. I officially started a new schedule of four, 10-hour days, which means that Friday is my day, more time for me day. I will do my best to blog on Fridays, about this journey to find more balance. Technology had taken over our lives. It's evidenced by the fact I just checked my gmail on my iPhone, then I got out

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-21599156327166204302010-01-21T16:11:00.000-08:002010-01-21T16:12:51.658-08:00

Today I started my morning with an Eagle River Youth Coalition Board meeting. Followed by another two-hour meeting, and now in an hour I will be at another meeting. Whoever invented meetings should be tortured. It's not that meetings can't be productive. Actually, the first one was great. It was a new concept for better involvement, and it went really well. If the day would have ended with one

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-40314707201668190202010-01-20T15:48:00.000-08:002010-01-20T15:48:06.454-08:00

Isn't this one easier said than done? I don't know about you, but I am doing my best to make some positive life changes. Here's where I'm at so far on this journey in 2010. I am working to take care of myself. Right now I'm exercising two to three times per week. I want to move that to four to five. I'm getting there, but I need to move from two to three, consistently before I move to four.

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-71257970850952557052009-12-05T22:54:00.001-08:002009-12-05T23:03:26.155-08:00

I thought the real world would be too much to take, and then my reentry was delayed by a really horrible case of the flu. Feeling awful, and not being able to return to work was so difficult. I wanted to get back to my life. I missed a friend's birthday, a retirement lunch, and just the chance to start to reclaim my life.Now I'm feeling fine, actually great because when you feel better it's so

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-46393484496563379682009-11-24T16:02:00.001-08:002009-11-24T16:11:03.866-08:00

I just got back from an experience of a lifetime. I went on a Group Study Exchange to Australia thanks to Rotary International. This trip was inspiring, exhausting, and definitely worth it. There were moments when I didn't feel that way, but then I just pushed through it and embraced what was offered so freely.I have never had so many strangers now friends open their homes, their hearts, and more

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-14181147192191834522009-09-07T22:49:00.000-07:002009-09-07T23:03:10.960-07:00

So it's been six days since my last post and declaration. I did buy a book. It was 40% off at The Bookworm. Since I often set meetings there it's a temptation, however, I got two more books for free, by turning in books that I've already read at Book Grove in Glenwood. So three books for $9. Not too bad, really.Also, I have to confess that I bought a pink cardigan (I needed it for the GSE trip)

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-88933554088305148872009-09-02T23:03:00.000-07:002009-09-02T23:17:39.739-07:00

So it's a month away from when I will be leaving for Australia, on my six-week adventure. In this month I have a lot to accomplish. No one seems to feel sorry for me. Regardless, I'm also starting a new phase in that I don't want to buy anything new this month. I want to focus on getting ready for the trip. Wrapping up work as much as possible, throwing Kendra's baby shower, and continuing to

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-63608763867334201052009-08-28T17:17:00.000-07:002009-09-02T23:03:01.772-07:00

A good book is like a fine glass of wine to be savored. Amy recently let me borrow "Loving Frank". This book is a fictionalized account of a true love affair. The book is about a modern woman living in the 19th century, though you may not identify with all the choices she makes you can identify with her belief in being authentic to yourself. Read it. I couldn't put it down. It kept me up nights.

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-85317332836987952022009-08-28T16:55:00.000-07:002009-08-28T17:16:13.181-07:00

So right now I'm sitting in my friend Ruth's kitchen. I just caught up on a month of blog entries on her wonderful blog site www.ruththemom.com. She inspires me to want to write on my blog on a more regular basis, and she makes me laugh on her blog and in general. Spending time with friends is truly a blessing.Soon we are heading to Sonoma to wine country, which is one of my favorite activities.

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-86490392010851627562009-07-28T14:10:00.000-07:002009-07-28T14:32:00.067-07:00

So the past couple months have posed some difficulties with a truly tough allergy season. I haven't felt like myself, run down. I've woke up extremely congested, and I've had many contact issues with several days of wearing just one contact. Who knew that vision was so important?I know that one option is signing up for years of shots, and I hope to bypass it. So instead I started going to a

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-42108207136340499212009-06-08T15:48:00.000-07:002009-06-08T15:53:20.554-07:00

I realized that I hadn't told you that I'm officially going back to Australia. That's right I've been selected as a team member of the Rotary International Group Study Exchange to visit southern Australia. I admit that my travels have been a bit excessive lately. The truth is that traveling is such a key component of who I am. So I keep traveling.And now I get to make a dream happen. I always

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-31628923458023726492009-06-08T15:24:00.000-07:002009-06-08T15:33:28.965-07:00

I am realizing that I often expect change to happen instantly. Maybe I watched too many fairy tales where a magic wand was waved, and poof everything happened instantly. The truth is that our lives aren't like a Polaroid picture. We don't wave them, and then the image or the way forward appears instantly. Alcoholics often talk about having a moment of clarity. Meanwhile, I'm lucky if I remember

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-34174966758667151032009-05-05T21:48:00.000-07:002009-05-05T22:03:27.948-07:00

So at this point I'm at a post a month. I obviously need a blog intervention. Or maybe just an intervention from watching that show. Yes, I've become addicted to watching Intervention on A&E. I don't know what it is exactly, but it has something to do with the fact that I can watch someone potentially take the opportunity to save their own life. Though the sad truth is that many of them do okay

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-88240638464152031612009-04-03T16:32:00.000-07:002009-04-03T17:05:11.703-07:00

I've been thinking a lot about the Declaration of Independence: "We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness." Read the full test at www.usconstitution.net/declar.html. The point that I've been pondering is whether the pursuit of

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-49064553756643846782009-03-25T14:38:00.000-07:002009-03-25T14:54:27.117-07:00

It has been almost two months since I've taken the time to write in my blog. Why is it that I let what's important to me go so often? This isn't the first time I've asked myself this question. Sometimes I let my life run me instead of the other way around. Awareness is the first step to moving forward.In my own defense I haven't let all my creativity and thoughtfulness go out the window. I am

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-37764579401554912602009-02-02T20:31:00.001-08:002009-02-02T20:37:42.197-08:00

Sorry I've been MIA, however, life got busy. I'm back! Today I had my first ski race at Beaver Creek. I was completely nervous about racing today. But I once again conquered my fear, and it went well. Basically, I didn't fall and I completed the race course twice. Success! Granted I was one of the slower racers, but the fact I'm even racing is enough.Yes I get to race for work. It's The ERYC ski

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-35290928054917683182009-01-16T16:44:00.001-08:002009-01-16T16:58:20.460-08:00

Fridays are wonderful aren't they! Fridays bring the weekend and a whole slew of possibilities. Tonight a bunch of girls are coming over for dinner for homemade pizza, salad and some TGIF drinks. I'm ready to let go of all the work stress and just enjoy.I told my friend Sondra that I needed to clone myself. My clone can work all the time, and I can be. I really am starting to think it is ethical.

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-48296661788059625592009-01-14T21:39:00.000-08:002009-01-14T21:46:32.777-08:00

So one of my guilty pleasures is reading my horoscope. When it's good I embrace it when it isn't as good I ignore it. Sometimes it's completely off-base, and once in awhile it is as if someone is reading my mind and feeding back what I want to hear.For example, two of my horoscopes in January have said that I need to travel the world and embrace adventures in my path. This was my horoscope today:

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-46157486035615270432009-01-14T04:00:00.000-08:002009-01-14T04:00:02.031-08:00

I am a writer. I feel most alive and energized when I am writing and creating. Right now I need to work on a grant and instead I'm getting a post ready for tomorrow. Because writing isn't as much fun when it's a grant. Want to know why?The top five reasons that writing a grant isn't fun.Reason 5: You have to write to meet a omnious deadline...which looms and looms.Reason 4: You can't have a lot

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-75244220854737731492009-01-13T20:01:00.000-08:002009-01-13T20:57:02.096-08:00

Believe it or not I left my house this morning at 7:10 a.m. Many of you think I'm totally lying about this, because you know that I am not a morning person. Yes, I know that is an understatement. I often cite an article in The New York Times to justify my owl existence. It seems the early bird does not always get the worm. Read these articles to find out more. It turns out there are a lot of

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-55517166783600972322009-01-12T21:52:00.000-08:002009-01-12T22:15:15.504-08:00

In our modern and complex world why do we spend so much time rushing and worrying about our level of productivity? It is almost that we're missing the point. We don't take the time to truly connect with someone else. I almost didn't take the five minutes required to read this article, which made me think about 'What else are we missing?'http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2007/04

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-22693026495080452612009-01-07T23:37:00.000-08:002009-01-07T23:53:13.830-08:00

This week started out with a bang. I've already got one comment on my overloaded calendar. I knew that January was going to be a busy month at work, however, despite the crazy month I met with my mentor and revamped my Life Plan for 2009.It's a lot of work to make a plan, but it's worth the effort. When you set a goal it's just that much easier to meet. I still need to take my plan down a notch,

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-58827902963996117262008-12-30T23:14:00.000-08:002008-12-30T23:29:35.238-08:00

Here are some resolutions that I might be able to keep:1. Take care of myself first.2. Keep my hair short in 2009.3. Laugh more!4. Have fun.5. Spend time with those I care about.Otherwise when I lose that 20 pounds or write that novel, it's icing on the cake. I can do the five items above, or at least I can try. Make your resolutions fun--it just might change everything. Happy New Year!

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-8983846861271691122008-12-30T09:00:00.000-08:002008-12-30T09:00:01.977-08:00

Have you taken the time to notice the beauty around you this year? I was coming home from a festive 'bad sweater party', and as I turned into my driveway I saw a snow bunny hopping away. If you've never seen a snow bunny, they are pure white to blend in with the snow. Lately, our snow bunny has taken to perching on our covered front porch to check out what's happening and get a 'lay of the land'

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-60941028811033252612008-12-29T13:41:00.000-08:002008-12-29T13:46:43.143-08:00

So it's that time to start thinking back on a year. This year has brought me more awareness, which equals the more you know the less you know. That being said I do feel poised to make the changes that I need to make. I have made progress in most areas, but I still need to get more focused on the direction for next year.Someone told me that he sees great things ahead in 2009. I do, too. I don't

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-78997119730684452212008-12-24T10:00:00.000-08:002008-12-24T10:00:03.251-08:00

So even if you aren't into Christmas there is a magic about Christmas Eve. It is all about anticipation. My family's tradition on Christmas Eve is to open one present and save the rest for the next morning (if my nephews are around). When it's just adults I will admit that sometimes we open everything on Christmas Eve so we can sleep in on Christmas morning. Sleeping in is a gift that's enough

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-52588253620680023002008-12-23T22:40:00.000-08:002008-12-23T22:48:38.839-08:00

So this year I'm not annoyed by Christmas music, which is weird, because usually it drives me crazy by now. I guess the key is go on holiday every year right before the holidays. That way you're more ready to embrace the season.So a holiday every November--sounds good to me. So I'm behind on wrapping presents. I haven't sent out my cards, yet. I've got 20 to send...so I'm sending to those who

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-57143934439026017632008-12-02T16:28:00.000-08:002008-12-02T16:42:07.907-08:00

Everyone has been asking me to sum up my trip. In a word, wonderful. My time in Australia was truly rejuvenating and it made me so happy to get some beach and ocean time. Although, I do love the mountains. (This week loving the mountains is a bit of a debate, but that's another post. ) Even so water has a way of bringing you back. Looking at the waves crash to the shore and hearing the surf just

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-63215112944194222022008-10-27T22:21:00.001-07:002008-10-27T22:33:48.880-07:00

So next time to design the best life, I'm getting out of the country sooner during a presidential election year. Every year the advertisements get worse. The phone calls are now on my cell phone. After having only a cell phone for the past five years it has finally caught up.I can vote by mail, and then head out of dodge. That's the plan. So I'm heading to Australia two weeks from Wednesday. Yeah

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-44099403175232504472008-10-21T15:51:00.000-07:002008-10-21T16:24:13.296-07:00

Sometimes all it takes to revive is to take a walk on Tuesday afternoon. After a very gray day I noticed the sunshine had fought its way out so the office took our 'daily walk', which lately hasn't been happening each day. A walk, along with the beautiful scenery of the Eagle River and the fall leaves really reminds you to count your blessings.Autumn gives me a sense of renewal. The reason is

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-33652589200312233232008-10-17T10:58:00.000-07:002008-10-17T14:51:03.083-07:00

What does it take to build community? Last night our Valley Tastings: Food for Youth event truly brought people together. It reminded me of why I love this community. We had a better turnout than last year, even during a down economy.

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-42862942334470982832008-10-15T11:29:00.000-07:002008-10-15T11:39:30.139-07:00

Embracing what you have instead of lamenting what you don't...I think times like these make this statement even more relevant. I am really working on expanding my gratitude and recognizing those who truly make the effort in relationships whether it's work or your personal life. I now realize that I have wasted some of my own time trying to make someone else change, when all that was needed was

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-58780494289637964762008-10-13T09:21:00.000-07:002008-10-15T11:41:44.075-07:00

It is interesting with the economic slowdown everyone starts talking about what's important. For example, suddenly everyone is taking notice of how they're spending their money. People I know are cutting back on extras and focusing on essentials.Trying to understand what essentials are is the first step in this process. I am guilty of deciding that certain extras are "essential," when in all

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-46513662981780946672008-10-03T12:25:00.000-07:002008-10-03T12:36:36.751-07:00

Do any of you ever have those weeks where you are sort of living for Friday? That was the case this week for me. It seemed like whatever would go wrong, did. I'm fairly certain that I've made it for now at least.I'm thinking about how I experience life a bit. According to a Tibetan monk, happiness is achieved by changing how you experience life. I want to do that so that no matter the

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-22580704003844938082008-09-30T14:52:00.000-07:002008-09-30T16:39:27.335-07:00

So I feel like I was getting too serious there. So in this entry I am reminding myself to lighten up and embrace the moments. The fun. I actually like to laugh. A lot! However, lately I've been feeling a bit motivated to get my life in order, but not at the cost of my sense of humor.And with everything going on in the U.S. with the most interesting presidential campaign, ever. With the economy

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-75584324002656518842008-09-26T08:29:00.000-07:002008-09-26T09:01:28.073-07:00

After my spirituality in leadership dialogue class last night I left feeling uncomfortable and a bit unsettled, until I sort of clarified what was going on by talking to my friend Curtis after class. For the past two years I've been on a path of self discovery with leadership as my compass. What I've discovered is that during that path of identifying my values and my leadership style I have

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-65388093949671917292008-09-25T12:22:00.000-07:002008-09-25T13:06:15.414-07:00

The old adage is that showing up is the half the battle. I would add that the rest of it is choosing your attitude, being consistent to your values, and finally stopping to listen, really listen. Tonight I'm joining a class called Leadership & Spirituality. This class is noncredit, voluntary. All you have to do is read the same reading, then think about prechosen dialogue questions, and finally

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-72045825631722359972008-09-24T13:05:00.000-07:002008-09-24T13:23:12.182-07:00

Have you ever really thought about meetings? Many times they are just another listing on your calendar. The most difficult ones are those that you attend where nothing happens. Let's be honest without a solid agenda and a good facilitator most meetings could be skipped.Today I had a productive meeting that ended a bit early, now that's awesome. I try to ensure that any meeting I facilitate are

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-26600689467331970062008-09-23T11:34:00.001-07:002008-09-23T13:01:38.410-07:00

So today I'm concentrating on one day at a time. I really want changes to happen quickly, but let's be honest it's about what you commit to today that matters. This morning I went to Pilates. I'm glad that I've already got in an hour of strength, stretching and movement.I am also going to work on my schedule, and I'm trying to be more realistic about what I can accomplish in a week. Instead of

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-44093205242154204232008-09-22T14:38:00.000-07:002008-09-22T14:49:44.783-07:00

There really isn't anything like a spa retreat weekend. Last Sunday I was so relaxed I truly didn't know what to do with myself. Even the drive to Colorado Springs for a prevention summit didn't faze me. Then I spent three full days at a conference, which brought me back to reality. Then one day in the office. Why bother? Then Friday it was off to the Youth Leaders Council's hut retreat at

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-64635011266669821512008-09-10T21:28:00.000-07:002008-09-10T21:50:37.670-07:00

I have sort of been like a pinball lately zapping from one thing to another. For example, this week started out with a busy Monday, yesterday I had an early meeting, and I drove to Denver for an eye doctor appointment. Then I drove back, and I went to my part-time job and hung out with 12 kids. It actually was fun!Today I barely had time to breathe. (Jason from across the hall sort of accused me

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-61544585835848774672008-09-04T20:03:00.000-07:002008-09-04T20:49:35.493-07:00

How can you design your best life? First to design mine I am going to embrace my unique talents and gifts. I feel most alive when I'm in flow and when creativity is taking me in new directions. To design my best life I have had to take a moment to recognize where changes are necessary.For me those changes involve choices that I'm making. It is the small choices that matter. For example, did I

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-33365678198039164372008-08-05T10:49:00.000-07:002008-08-05T10:55:59.294-07:00

Well it's my birthday, too. Sorry I couldn't resist. So I just realized that I spelled Australia wrong in my blog address. Awesome! But today since it's the day of my birth, I'm not dealing on past mistakes instead I'm moving forward and embracing positive action.For example Becky and Bethany made my office festive with a disco ball, ribbons and some beautiful flowers. Do I have the best

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-32820622862231044422008-08-04T21:18:00.000-07:002008-08-04T21:39:45.991-07:00

Well I just spent a leisurely weekend in a couple other mountain towns, 'Crested Butte and Gunnison'. It was a respite. Even though I live in a mountain town and work in another one when you're visiting and you're on vacation it's just different. I relaxed and walked around an art festival, which always makes me want to get creative.It does remind me of my belief that when you need a moment to

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-38711781853698621002008-08-01T15:01:00.000-07:002008-08-01T15:12:12.651-07:00

One thing that I'm learning over and over is that even when life throws a lot at you--you can't give up what you're striving to make happen. So now instead of giving up when I have a setback, when I haven't had time to get caught up or even remember what all I need to catch up on...I just get back on track. It's a major accomplishment.I was talking to my friend Ruth about this, and we both

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-3284307308110655322008-07-15T11:10:00.000-07:002008-07-15T11:24:27.873-07:00

So my entry today is going to be short and sweet, but I'm trying to get back to an entry per day during the week until I buy a new laptop. Yes, my work laptop is being diagnosed, but I think I've decided to get a new personal one. My other personal one is so so slow.I'm borrowing my roommate Cheryl's, and new one's are super fast, and well they rock. It's an investment in my writing and probably

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-63983299183275149192008-07-14T07:45:00.000-07:002008-07-14T08:39:12.496-07:00

Let's be honest catching up is difficult. It is much easier to stay on task. I'm catching up on blogging, because my laptop at home isn't functioning properly. You forget what life is like without the Internet. I tried to write an entry on Friday, but no such luck.Anyway, just to let you my few loyal readers know I have been following my plan. Yesterday, I went swimsuit shopping, which is one of

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-28216166980015560262008-07-08T09:59:00.000-07:002008-07-08T16:48:07.083-07:00

So tonight I'm going to the free concert in Vail at the Ford Ampitheater. The band sounds good, and I haven't made one this year. I normally go to yoga on Tuesdays, but instead I'm going to workout over lunch instead (this is a new one). I'm trying to make it a priority to work out at least 30 minutes per day. Some days I get in a lot more, which is just a great bonus. But on those days when I've

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-62740154764145666282008-07-07T10:36:00.000-07:002008-07-07T14:35:18.187-07:00

Gotta love a holiday weekend that is arranged around barbecues and fireworks. Last week sort of got me off track from writing in my blog each day, but this week I'm back on track. My home computer is having some issues, so I'm not using it as much. And well not using a computer on the weekend (until I have a new one) is a definite nice break.So since my meltdown on Tuesday things are looking up.

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-79894215523594024512008-07-02T08:40:00.000-07:002008-07-02T09:56:34.993-07:00

So yesterday wasn't my best day ever. I sort of had a mini-breakdown. It seems that my marathon month, work stress, all these changes, and my planning for my trip caught up with me. I guess I was just waiting for July 1, and then I just got upset. I know it's because I haven't sought out sanctuary (and made room for myself) in all of this. So I went home early, took a nap, and I cleaned my room.

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-30087345752209112412008-06-30T08:43:00.000-07:002008-06-30T10:53:51.503-07:00

I have to admit that sometimes that phrase wouldn't stand for healthy choices! But this weekend it does. There really is something about accountability. It started with Friday night, which was pretty easy. I hung out with Jason and Kendra. We went to Flight Days at Eagle to hear live music and sample the food. Funnel cakes were available, but we skipped them and headed to the BBQ tent instead for

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-40315115480508398982008-06-27T10:05:00.000-07:002008-06-27T10:15:32.827-07:00

Usually I'm happy it's Friday, because I've got a ton of plans stacked up. And this time I'm happy because I don't have plans crowding my weekend. What a shift.Today I didn't make the morning workout, because my allergies are really kicking. I am going to make an appointment to see an alternative medicine doctor recommended to me yesterday, who has helped others. At this point I need to try

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-5616856830910339042008-06-26T13:59:00.000-07:002008-06-26T14:32:18.436-07:00

Making something a habit is so much more difficult than it looks. Yesterday I met with my mentor and friend to discuss my life plan. It's slowly getting more clear, which is great. It just seems like a lot of work to get there. Don't worry I'm committed to all of this, but today I'm just feeling a bit overwhelmed. I'm really excited that tomorrow's Friday, and I get to enjoy my weekend. I cleared

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-29955255396255646692008-06-25T08:55:00.000-07:002008-06-25T09:43:28.241-07:00

For those that know me well or even a little bit, they know that I am in general not a morning person. Just ask Mary Beth who once made the mistake of talking to me before a 5K race to support breast cancer prevention/research. I apologize again. I just don't like to talk a lot in the morning.All of you can understand the sacrifice I'm making. Not only am I doing sprints at 6:30, but this morning

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-17180532997204155642008-06-24T13:24:00.000-07:002008-06-24T13:48:48.654-07:00

'One day at a time' how true is that statement! I have to keep reminding myself of that fact. I went to dinner with some friends last night. It was awesome as usual--great food and conversation. I am blessed with wonderful friends in my life who share their stories and make the time to catch up on what everyone's doing. My favorite though is to talk about life and the richness of it. Remembering

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2259646500962655504.post-78588269430063799982008-06-23T09:12:00.000-07:002008-06-23T12:29:57.118-07:00

My friend Ruth started a blog to stop and cut back on buying lattes. Does that mean she never gets one? No, but now she doesn't buy as many, with the realization that you can pay $1 to $2 versus $4 to $5. As for me coffee remains a staple, but now I sometimes make it instead of buying it. Ruth's experiment worked for her, and it left me inspired to make change happen.I'm starting this blog to see

Cristinanoreply@blogger.com2