The Days are Long but the Years are Short.

I am reading this awesome book right now called the Happiness Project (I highly recommend it) and this quote really resonated with me: "The days are long but the years are short." With so much change going on in our lives right now, sometimes it's hard to hold tight to those sweet, present moments. I'm headed out to NYC for a week and couldn't be more excited to spend some serious quality time with friends and family. It will likely be one of the last times I see them before we head out to Guam for 2 years of adventure. I've been thinking so much lately about this time with family and friends and how much I really want to enjoy it. And then this quote popped up and I knew exactly what I had to do. When I'm in NYC I'll have the chance to:

• Celebrate my grandmother's 80th birthday (if you know her, pretend you don't know her age - she would kill me for publicizing it)
• Meet my high school best friend's new baby boy (all the feels for this little guy folks, what the hell is happening to me...HELP)
• Spend precious time with my Dad (this is a big one for me - we are both workaholics #success)
• Have lunch with my high school AP US History teacher and basically role model for all of my high school/college years in her garden (hello dreams coming true)
• See my NYC mama either 9 months pregnant or with a brand new child (M do you remember the times when we weren't sure if you'd even meet Mr. Right? Holy crap so many bad dates haha)

In sum  - these are amazing moments that I am so lucky to be apart of. I recognize the travel will be long and the logistics likely stressful. But these are the moments I will treasure and take with me when I leave. To really capture them - I plan to activate all of my senses. Smell the scent of my dad's home, my grandma's perfume, and for course the famous warm pee on the streets of NYC. Feel the tight hug of my Aunts, the hot and humid east coast summer air. See the bright lights, the used and worn subway cars, the masses of people as they head their ways. Taste the salty NYC bagels and the delicious pizza. Touch sweet baby boy's soft cheeks, and my friend's big baby belly. I'll capture mental pictures and take thought notes as I file all of these sweet memories in my heart and keep them close to me as we travel. This time is so important to me - I can't express how much these people I get to visit helped to shape my world and give me the love and support I needed and am so grateful for to this day. Squeeze your loved ones tight, all. :)

xoxo

- AM

Celebrate For Nice

I was lucky enough to be in this beautiful place: Nice, France winter/spring of 2009. On a long weekend trip from studying abroad in Firenze, Italia, my fellow students and I (read: American travelers who occasionally took some classes in Italy) explored this beautiful city the weekend before the Carnival festival. I'll never forget the gigantic carnival figurines that were being set-up. We watched them come to life high in the skies as we rode the giant ferris wheel in the city center. I'll never forget the magic of this great city, the beauty of its shorelines, adorable tiny blonde French children, and delicious croque-monsieur sandwiches (this was pre gluten/dairy free). My heart continues to break for everyone in our Western world, especially the French last night. Paris, France is #2 on my list of cities I love like humans (under my former boyfriend of course, NYC). When something happens to the French, I really feel it happens to us as Americans too because we fight for and believe in the same liberties and way of life. As a military spouse I won't go off on a tangent here regarding my thoughts on the American political system and the state of our international security. But rather, I'll speak from the seat of a yoga teacher here (my heart). I am sickened by the events that try to steal and threaten our celebrations as humans living in the great and free Western world. Instead of letting fear take over, I beg of you all to fight back...in celebration. This place, Nice - is such a meeting spot for celebrations. Bastille, Carnival - it's party town in the South of France people. So let's celebrate EACH and EVERY day and celebrate on for those who no longer can. One of my favorite things about being apart of the Western world is how much we celebrate everything. Independence day, Hallmark holidays, St. Patrick's day - you name it, we celebrate it. So let's celebrate on - please SMILE and be KIND to those around you. Celebrate life, celebrate love, and whatever you do, please keep on celebrating.
xoxo
- AM

All the Feels

This really awesome moment happened after 1 of my yoga classes yesterday. I always let people into my class late because really I don't care and also how frustrating is it when you hustle to get to class to then be turned away? Anyways, the student I let into class late came up to me after for a chat. I had met her the day before - she was getting back into yoga for the first time in years and I was happy to see her back at it again/good to know I didn't scare her away. She said she had something to tell me. She shared that she had finalized her divorce that day and though she felt confident in her heart it was the right thing to do, she was still was having a rough day. She thanked me for letting her into class - saying that is changed the tune of her day and she was so appreciative. I responded with thank you so much an gave her a hug (my usual). But then she said something that got me crying (naturally)- she said "no, I really want you to understand you have an impact on people. What you do - it really helps people." Cue all the feels - how lovely is this woman? Not only was I so happy to be able to help with a glimmer of happiness in her day, but it also made me feel like I had (good) fireworks going off inside of me. For the next few months, we made the choice for me to work full time at the yoga studio before we move to Guam. That was not an easy decision initially, but after much debating - it became the only natural decision and next step for me. I've felt so free ever since we made the choice - but to have this student share her sweet words with me was a culmination of everything I felt about this big shift. Interactions like with her were the EXACT reason I dove heart and soul into this adventure. It's insanely cool to be in a place (to quote my girl Gretchen Rubin from The Happiness Project) where I can say "I am lucky to be as eager for Monday mornings as I am for Friday afternoons."
xoxo
- AM

I'm Really Bad at this Guys

The other day my husband told me I was really bad a being vulnerable. You have to understand:
1. I try to be really good at everything I do.
B. I try to only do the things I'm good at and stand clear of the rest (I'm honest with myself about where my skill set lies haha)
2b. My sweet husband never tells me I'm bad at anything (besides giving directions) he's always complimenting me, so major red flag on your personal growth, Amanda.
Time to take a hard look at myself - I do hate being vulnerable. It sucks - if I could have all of believe you that nothing effects me and everything is fine all the time that would be awesome. Honestly, I do it for you. I never want someone else to be brought down by me or feel like they can't rely on me. I'm happy when I can make people happy so the opposite of that makes me sad. I also don't want to be little miss negative Nancy (sorry) all 'whoa is me' in the corner because I know how awesome my life is and how much more tough life is for so many of those in this world. I don't want to be an ungrateful boob. But I recognize life isn't all roses and rainbows. To break the news I hinted at in the last post - we are moving to Guam. Have-your-shit-together Amanda is super excited and truly feels like we've been given a gift to explore the world together the next two years. FREE of any real commitments and a chance to see places and experience cultures togethers we might never ever had the chance to otherwise in our entire lives. Vulnerable Amanda: scared shit-less. Not because of the actual move, but because of how the move puts me in all the vulnerable spots. I likely won't be able to take my day job with me: financial vulnerability. I have to rely to on my husband completely until I get up on my feet: emotional vulnerability. I have to be able to travel on a whim with his job: type-A freak out not being able to plan, vulnerability. I am finally being forced to chase my passion and do yoga full time: creative vulnerability. As you can see dear reader, this is my nightmare. Again, so pumped to travel - shade of panic over the fact that I will literally become vulnerable in every aspect of my life. And shit, it's time. I watched this awesome TED talk recently (you can check it out here: http://bit.ly/1GlL9DV) given by a woman who I really resinated with. Like me, super type-A and always wanting to have her ducks in a row at all times - she came to realize this wasn't actual living. That juicy feeling you get, that missing piece, butterflies in the stomach, heart jumping loops - that's life being LIVED. And you can't get that without being vulnerable. So let's do this - in Guam - let's LIVE life. I'll be vulnerable as all heck so likely a nervous mess for the first few weeks - but this is my chance. To really live it - to feel it - to make it happen.
xoxo :)
- AM

Take What Works and Leave the Rest

There is this awesome term in yoga called 'aparigraha' which means: non attachment or non possessiveness. It literally means "not grabby" or not hoarding with relationships, material possessions, money, energy, or time in your own life or in others. Aparigraha is 1 of the yamas (restraints) on the 8 limb path of yoga. This word has been coming up a lot for me lately in conjunction with another phrase I hear around our yoga studio a lot: "take what works and leave the rest." This idea of not being grabby with the people and things in your life is one that many of us might think we are super great at. I'm first to admit - I am not. For most of you that know me I am either a 0 or 100% gal - there isn't anything in between those 2 numbers for me. Having the sort of passion for others, things, and ideas can sometimes make oneself grabby. If you're my friend or family member you'll know that I'm loyal to a fault. But I'm hear to say that time has come for me to exert more aparigraha into my life. Hubby and I recently receive the gift of a once in a lifetime adventure (more to come on that in a later post :)) to explore and travel more than we could have ever dreamed of in our lifetimes. With this new opportunity, I feel a deep pull to take a closer look at the areas in my life where I can be less grabby. What are the material items I can really let go of - that I won't need to take on this adventure with me? What are the friendships that I just need to let be and give myself this opportunity to freely explore? What job am I holding onto that I think defines me as a member of western society and provides me with this idea of success that is actually just holding me back for better things to come? I'm not going tiny house minimalist on all of you, (just yet) (kidding, I still really love a fancy night at the Ritz) but seriously what am I holding onto that is just taking up space in life? Something my scholarly minded of a husband reminded me of is that when you are rich with financial security, this is what takes up your time. Spending, gifting, and maybe even investing the money is what your days are rich or filled with. When you are rich with time - with the chance to travel the world and have new experiences, take on new perceptions, live in new worlds - you become rich with experiences. What you thought money once gave you, experience now makes you feel the fullest. This is my commitment to letting go of my attachment to the outcome of this next season in life!
xoxo
- AM

I am a Belieber

Yes folks, it's real - I am. Having a spontaneous night with my girlfriend to scalp tickets to Justin Bieber's concert a few weeks ago was certainly the highlight of this deployment thus far. I highly recommend it to ladies of the like, screaming teenagers, or anyone who is just in love with the Bieb's beats generally. I'm sharing this post because I friend recently commented on this latest escapade as "girl, you are doing deployment right!!" and so I thought I'd share. So how does one "do deployment" right? I'm here to tell you I honestly have no idea. But from my experience thus far I've made a list of top tips I think will help you. Bear in mind this tips are specifically for the partner at home and pertaining to the partner at home. We could get into a whole slew of lists on partner aboard, helping partner abroad, being partner abroad. But let's remain focused people - it's the Biebs concert we're talking about here.

1. TREAT YO SELF! - I cannot say this one enough and that's why it's looks like your grandma accidentally wrote in all caps. I am a yogi and a Christian and so I realize idolizing anything other than what you believe in is a bad habit/short lived high. However, let's be honest here ladies...a brand new handbag on a crappy day, never hurt anyone. Splurging on Justin Bieber tickets on whim and dancing the night away - well I just don't know if we can be friends if that doesn't sound fun to you (reconsidering some serious relationships right now...).
2. Be kind to yourself- realize that you're going to have bad days and that there is NOTHING wrong with that. You are not the "queen" of deployments - who the hell wants to be really good at it anyways? Getting used to my main squeeze being gone is not something I'm interested in ever becoming fully on board with all the time - I like having him around too much. Making it work - 100% I am here to support and am on board with. But I recognize I need to be kind to myself when I'm having a mad/bad/sad moment (I was going to say day but let's get real here people, it's moment by moment depending upon how much dog pee I'm cleaning off the floor at that hour).
3. Get over it- people don't get it. And honestly, you wouldn't wish someone to be in your shoes just to get it. Looking for someone who understands your exact emotional state at any given moment is an unfair and unrealistic. Stop looking outward and start accepting inward - this is the first step. Accept that this is a season. Accept that almost every other person in the world is also going through a season of their own. Accept that asking "can we talk about something else right now?" is not rude but rather a perfectly fair response to "how is your husband's deployment going?"
4. Listen, don't speak- people are still going to share their dilemmas with you. Sorry to tell you but you're not on a high horse because your husband is serving the country. In fact put it in perspective - this is hard, but everyone else has tough stuff going on too. Also, it's not a comparison. You never know what someone else is struggling with or where they're coming from on the inside. Does that mean you have to give if you don't have anything to give away? No, absolutely not. But most times, people just want someone to listen. So - instead of causing a tisy in trying to find a way to respond. Just listen- don't get defensive. Don't get into it. Just. Listen. And then, miraculously I bet you this person will thank you for listening and ask you how you're doing! And if they don't, cut them some slack - the world doesn't revolve around you (this is a personal reminder haha).
5. Find a rhythm, then break it- this is a great one. I needed most right away a routine when hubby left. Once I got in my groove, then I knew I would be able to sail relatively smoothly. And I did - until I became exhausted from how busy I was keeping to avoid feeling lonely. For me, clearing my schedule to sit on the couch is not a conducive environment for my emotional well being. But sometimes doing something unplanned - calling a friend last minute to see if she was around to hang - was helpful. These spontaneous moments are the ones I remember most when I look back, not my purposely over packed schedule.
6. Take on a new challenge - have you been wanting to take a class? Learn new trade? Get a dog, (immediately realize it was a very choice decision on your part and you better figure out how to train this dog, damn it!)? Well now is your time! In all seriousness - as a married person you've been gifted 6 whole months to get your crap together. To become a better, more improved version of yourself for when your spouse comes homes. So take this opportunity and seize the day on self improvement!
7. Ask for help and say no - this was a hard one for me. Always be positive, yes. But if someone asks you how you're doing or if you need help - be honest. Take it and truly embrace where you're at and don't be afraid to share that. Sometimes saying "no" to things when you've just had enough is also the best decision you can make for you and those around. Check in, see where you're at, and come honestly from that place.

xoxo,

- AM

The Power of Choice On and Off the Mat

I taught my yoga classes this week around the idea of choice. It was such a powerful concept to me and one that is so close to home that I had to share!

Our day, what we make of it, our attitudes, our lives, and the way we live them is all up to us. We have a choice. And each time we choose - negative or positive. Kind or cutting. Workout or night out - we are saying something. We are giving into the way we feel about ourselves, the universe around us, and our role in it. The great new is that we have this power. We have this power to wake up every day and make choices. A lot of them. From the first foot we plant on the ground - where are we coming from? A place with an endless to-do list or a place of service to others for the day. When challenge stares us square in the face - do we choose to listen, understand, and learn something new? Or do we choose to resist and try to just get past it. Choose - make the CHOICE to choose wisely. Each and every day. Each and every act, thought, word, and feeling. The choices we make decide the path for our lives. And we are the ones living on that path, aren't we? So choose wisely.
xoxo
- AM

The Most Inspiring People I've Ever Met

A few weeks ago I was blessed enough to have this most amazing man and his girlfriend in one of my yoga classes I met them at the front desk and they were very kind and polite. I noticed the man was in a wheel chair and thought nothing of logistics - my favorite thing about the magic of yoga is that it is truly accessible to all. When we got into class I started teaching and it wasn't for a few minutes that I looked over and realized this man was a quadriplegic. And I was fully in awe of how beautiful his practice was. He used blocks to support his elbows and knees. In all honestly, his crow pose put mine to shame! But it wasn't the physical postures that got me with this student. It was the heart - this man, and frankly his girlfriend were so passionately involved in their practice, it was like watching a harmonious dance. Again, it wasn't something you could see in the physical. They were committed to their practices, moving through the asanas. They had mentally arrived and were committed to being present. They were committed to just be. And that my friends was so utterly inspiring. I was able to give them love at the end and the amount of strong, positive energy that surrounded these 2 was truly overwhelming. I chatted with them briefly after class and the funny thing is, they were sympathetic towards me for having a hubby deployed. Yowza that's some perspective - or really attitude shift. It's unbelievable what the body can do if the mind will allow it to. Most times we think we can't do something because we don't have it "in us." For this pair - they just said screw it and blew us all away. I do hope they come back one day - I truly enjoyed their presence and would love to roll out my mat and practice alongside them one day very soon. I also feel like I wasn't able to adequately express my gratitude for them being so awesome. So if you're reading this - thank you for being the most inspiring and tough individuals I've ever met. Go inside folks, you've all got an amazing light to shine from in there!
xoxo,
- AM

New Friends, Old City

Isn't it funny when you meet new people who are from the same city you once were that they instantly make you feel like home again? Last week I had the opportunity to meet a coworker who I've been working with for over a year now but had not actually spent any time with in person. We met for dinner - me, her, her bf, and my new sidekick puppy. It was as if we had known each other for years and immediately stepped into friendship. The best part was, my new "long lost" friend and her boo were from my old hood - NYC. And sitting and enjoying a meal with some NY-ers was just so God damn good, there are no words. It was like a breath of fresh polluted air, complete an imaginary scent of freshly urinated city blocks. It dawned on me - when we spend time with people who are where you come from makes it makes us feel rooted, grounded, and most of all...at home. Coming back to these people, even if they are new to our lives - it feels like they know us. We are in good company and being with these people who just seem to get us and what we are about - reminds us what we were made of. We all know at this point I'm a Cali convert - dog, "bummer" phrase, yoga teacher, and all and so of course I'm hoping to convert my long lost friend and her boo as well. But for now, I'm just glad a little bit of old NYC crossed my path. San Diego has my life, but NYC and its peeps will always have my heart.
xoxo,
- AM

Make-shift Love Languages

Sometimes when the person you love - you're better half, your soulmate - isn't physically present or can't be emotionally present you have to call on reinforcements to love. My hubby's love language is physical touch and mine quality time. The 2 worst love languages for couples who experience deployment - go figure! Fear not gentle people of the world, we got this. For me, writing this - expressing how I feel about it in hopes that the hubs reads (yaya shout out if your eyes are on this Hubs!) is a way to temporarily fulfill my love language of quality time. It fills up my love tank to know my hubs is caught up on all my thoughts, feels, and inner deep emotions. And trust me...there are a lot of those! Thank God the internet. Any who - how am I speaking his love language while he's gone? Photos! Keep your minds out of the gutter dear readers (only temporarily of course). Sending hubby photos and videos of me, the pup, our daily life, and sometimes furry challenges together - makes him feel like he's physically included. I get to fill his love tank by just sharing images and clips of our life back at home until he returns. So for me - I need to commit to something else here. With literal physical touch and quality time I need to give myself a task. I'm a process oriented, scheduled, type A kind of gal for whom structure provides comfort. So in lieu of the other love languages, I'd like to pull on acts of service and gifts (love languages that didn't pop for either of us on the quiz). Daily, I'd like to DO something for Drew. Anything big or small - send a care package, listen to a vent sesh, or put together a photo book (a pic of me and the pup a day so he can track growth). That way, I'll feel like we are still connected but in new ways. I'm more of an accountability gal hence why I'm sharing my commitments in writing - that way you can keep me to them. :)
Until next time! xoxo
- AM

Yogi 1/2 way check-in!

Hello out there! My classmates and I are officially half way through our yoga teacher training and WOW has it been a wild ride! You've likely not seen me around because my entire being has become consumed with training: taking class, practice teaching class, lectures, journaling, essay writing, reading, strength training, and eating + sleeping a lot more. I never imaged this journey would be as amazingly life changing and fully eye-opening as it is. And all I want is…more! In fact, I signed up for more - and will be extending my training through October to refine, improve, and keep on moving forward. Here are a few key highlights of the journey I am so grateful for thus far:

1. Breakthrough - this happened very early on at the start of training, in chair pose. I have always been resistant to this pose and dreading it until 2 'ah-ha!' moments occurred for me. First, I learned that I am too flexible in my knees (this is not a good thing - thanks ski racing!) and when I just stood up a little bit in my stance, this pose was so much more manageable in my body. Second, is leaning into panic. I was in gorilla pose (hands under feet, knees bend, torso over) and 1 of the instructors gave me an adjustment there that held me in this pose, deep…for a while. The usual panic of discomfort, fear, mixed with a splash of anger came on - but I wasn't going anywhere. And so at the moment I decided - to lean into the: fear, doubt, anxiety. This is where the magic happens - the change, the breakthrough. And when I released damn did it feel good - but I felt completely different. Like I had proven to myself that I could do this, and so much else.
2. Leaving the comfort zone - this rocked. A few weeks ago we all had to teach part of the class to our classmates. Yes, I know the series seems easy. But from expert on your mat, one becomes unable to speak English in front of the class. I knew this was the only chance I would have to just run with it (clueless of what poses came next, what my first name was, and how the hell was it already my turn?). I went up there and just rocked it. I think I may have blacked out mid-way, and by rocked it I mean got through it. I am still alive, no one died from crow pose in the making, and I remember my name again! Seriously though - literally forcing myself outside of my comfort zone was the best feeling once I got through it. And living in this space ever since hasn't been so bad either. I've gotten the chance to learn about myself, others, and new things in life I had never experienced before. How wonderful is that?
3. Igniting energy - this was one of the coolest experiences I've had yet to date. The other night our instructors ran us through the series (1 full hour class) - lights off, candles on, no English (I sense a common theme here :)), no cues (ex. "move your leg to the top of the mat"), just Sanskrit (you know that super easy ancient Hindu language, 1 of the 22 official languages of India). Oh and PS - we had to repeat the Sanskrit back for each pose. I was hot, sweaty, sore, and full thanks to a 5 minute stuff-your-face-quickly dinner. Once we got going - my mind was blown. My normal monkey mind completely suspended on its own, I could feel every pose deep into my body, and the Sanskrit just rolled off of our tongues. The energy we shared in the room was something that I can't properly put into words - but I was shaken from the inside out. After that, I had such clarify in my mind, a softness to my body, and a connection with all of my fellow classmates. This was truly a once in a lifetime experience.

That's all for now! I'll be back with more soon :) xoxo

- AM

From Farmville to Dirt– Tips on How I started my 1st Hipster Veggie Garden!

Plant Plants

Sounds obvious, right? Wrong – if you chose to go down the daring path of seeds, I promise you will 99% likely be disappointed. Unless you’re planting kale or something else that greats like a weed, the seeds take forever to take with more often than not - little to no success (depending upon your area). Starting with plants gets you started with something green that already has some success, and it looks like you’ve actually done something when you’re done planting for the day.

The Associates at Home Depot are your new Best Friends

Without these guys, I would have literally tried to plant pickles in the sand. Whether it’s Home Depot, Lowes, or your local gardening center - find someone working in the plant section, tell them what your plans are and ask them tons of questions about everything. Want to plant tomatoes? Ask the friendly associate of the fine establishment if they think they’ll take in December in New York. Not sure what tools, soil, food, wire, gloves to use? These guys have all the answers.

Early Bird Gets the Worm

If you’re going to be a gardener, I’ve learned that the earlier is always the better. When first planting, you’re going to want to do it early. I am talking hitting up Home Depot at 7AM on Sunday and being done planting by 10AM. Why you ask? This was shocking news to me – did you know that if you water anytime between 2 hours after sunrise and sunset (so pretty much all day) that the reflection of the sun onto the water burns the plants?? You don’t want to hurt your new little babies. Same goes for continuing to water – morning is most definitely the best time. Though you can do it after sunset (beware of mold…and creepy crawlers you can’t see, ekk!).

Be Patient

This is a virtue I find difficult in most facets of life so in gardening (something I am completely new to) it was even harder for me. I would love to literally sit out there and watch the process of photosynthesis occur before my eyes – but then I might loose it, and get a sunburn (positive?). Seriously, most veggie plants take 60-80 days from the day of planting to produce its first harvest. That means you might not see a pepper or squash for over 2 months after planting. It’s OK – these little guys are just putting down roots – I promise you’ll be able to make your famous ratatouille in no time!

Consistency in Care

Gardens are look babies (maybe more like dogs? We are getting there) – they need consistent care. You can’t just decide to plant one Sunday and then leave your little buddies high and dry as you head out to Coachella for the long weekend. In the beginning (at least on the west coast) they need a lot of water. Remember, you are introducing these plants to their new environment and trying to get them to stick there. Once the watering dies down (again – definitely regional but I went from watering once a day for 2 weeks to every 2 days now), you’ll have to start worry about things like: keeping the buggies away with some special organic spray, pulling weeds, turning the soil so it doesn’t rot or turn into clay, and getting rid of dead leaves and branches. As you care for your plants be sure to observe – not all plants are created equal and some require more/less love than others. For example, I need to trim my herbs all the time and keep them out of full sun whereas the zucchini plants grow like a weed with little to no issues.

Start Easy and Local

I know you want to be the next Farm to Table phenomenon but start easy and start local. Meaning, chose plants that have a higher chance of producing harvest and don’t require a crazy amount of maintenance to do so (kumquats, anybody?). Also chose plants that will do well in your area. On the east coast it might be onions and potatoes but on the west coast it might be peppers and squash. Seeing your first harvest will get your confidence up while you learn the ropes of gardening – you can do this!! I promise, when you pull that first harvest and cook a meal fully with veggies and herbs from your garden it will be all worth it. The joy from taking care of something that can yield food so fresh and delicious right from your backyard has completely changed my perception of gardening – and now I’m hooked. J

Xoxo

- AM

Yogi Journey – Here we go!

Hello All! I am so excited to share with you that I will be embarking on my Yoga teacher training journey starting: TODAY! Thoughts that have been running through my mind: “holy crap - what was I thinking, how do I pronounce ‘namaste,’ my headstand is really off point, 200 hours, really??” Either way – I am diving in head first, and I am going to use my blog as a journal of my experiences along the way. I will still post in between here and there my thoughts, recipes, and adventures not related to yoga – but wanted to start by sharing my first yogi assignment (below)! In all seriousness, I am so grateful for this opportunity and hopeful that my experience and teachings can help people on and off the mat for years to come. :)

What is Yoga?

Yoga is a 1-hour spa treatment for the mind, body, and soul. The steam heat warms you from the inside out as it makes its way from your core to beads of sweat on your skin. This silence combined with soft music eases your mind as you recline back into child’s pose – eyes closed, mind clearing. As you breath deeply – in and out, the worries and to-do lists of your day somehow just seem to melt away. As you move through each pose your body is challenged, your muscles are stretched, and even certain emotions arise as you open your heart throughout class. You finally make it to shivasana – your work is complete. You are refresh, made anew, and ready to face the world again with a new perspective. 

Why do I practice?

To me, Yoga means PEACE. Literally – PEACE, PEACE, and more PEACE. When I stepped on my mat for the first time I hated yoga – I just didn’t get it. Fast forward 2 years ago when I stepped on my mat again for the first time in San Diego at a C1 class in La Jolla and my world was transformed. For one hour, the mind chatter ended and I could just focus on being. When I left that class I felt lighter, less stressed, and you guessed it – more at peace. I realized I had struck gold and that I needed to take yoga as often as possible and bring as many friends to class with me as I could. I had a great secret I needed to share and wanted everyone to have the opportunity to experience what I did on my mat that day and every day since. 

Namaste ;)

- AM

Things that make me HAPPY

Hiiii out there! Just going to jump right into it here - today is the 11 year anniversary of my mom's passing. A somber day yes I know - but why does it have to be now? Please don't take this as insensitive by any means; just my reflection of my grief at this point in life. The older I've gotten the more I've begun to realize death is unavoidable. Yes, that may be obvious to some - but as it starts to happen around you (more frequently as the years go by) you start to gain a different perspective. For me, the main take away has been living out that person's spirit. I try to put myself in my Mom's shoes - what would she really want for me in my life? How would she want me to live today? She actually shared this with me once (unknowingly) that at her funeral she wanted kazoos instead of tears. You heard me right folks, kazoos. She didn't want anyone being sad over her, but rather to celebrate her life and her spirit - with bad music. I try my darndest to live this out every day (minus the kazoos) - so in special honor of her today, I made a list of things that make me happy.

Things that make me HAPPY (you know I love lists):

1. Bahamian music
2. Salsa dancing
3. Sand in between my toes
4. Sunshine beating down on my shoulders
5. Finding an awesome deal
6. Getting dolled up and fancy
7. A delicious glass of wine
8. A warm blanket
9. Visiting with a friend
10. Feeling sexy
11. A sweaty work-out
12. Making a fresh meal from scratch
13. Tending to my garden
14. Spontaneous adventures
15. Writing 

All of us deserve to be happy - most of the time, not just some of the time. This year, in remembrance of my Mom and all of the people that were too good to leave us too soon - I am remembering all the things that make me happy - and doing them ASAP. Because that's how she would have wanted it - and that's how she was and always will be in my heart. :)

xoxo,

- AM

Homemade Granola!

Good Morning and Happy Monday all!! Looking for a tasty breakfast treat that will last you all week (and beyond)? Look no further - homemade granola recipe below. For breakfast I'll usually do 1/4-1/2 cup of this yummy stuff with some almond milk and a banana, greek yogurt, or coconut ice cream if you're really feeling daring. :)

Homemade Granola

Time: 1.5 hours   Servings: 10
Ingredients:

• 3 1/2 cups rolled oats (use old fashioned, NOT quick oats)
• 1 cup chopped walnuts
• 1 cup chopped pecans
• 1 cup dried cranberries or raisins 
• 2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
• 3 tablespoons grassfed butter or Earth Balance
• 4 tablespoons raw, virgin coconut oil
• 1/3 cup honey
• 2 teaspoons vanilla extract
• 1/2 teaspoon sea salt

Directions:

• Preheat over to 250 degrees. Line large, rimmed baking sheet with tinfoil and spray with coconut oil cooking spray.
• Mix oats, nuts, dried fruit, salt and spices together in large mixing bowl (using a KitchenAid makes this a breeze).
• Mix butter, coconut oil and honey in small saucepan – heat until butter and coconut oil melt. Add vanilla extract.
• Poor hot liquid over dry ingredients. Stir until combined well.
• Spread granola onto baking sheet into one even layer.
• Cook for 70 minutes.
• Remove from oven, and allow to cook completely before breaking into chunks. Granola will harden as it cools.

Enjoy!! xoxo - AM

An Oldie, But a Goodie…Video!

Woah, we are 1/2 way through 2015!!

Hello Sweet World,

How goes it? I woke up with morning realizing, "holy crap - we are already 6 months into this year!" Before you know it, chubby Santa's going to be heading down the chimney (semi Christmas shopping panic). Anyways, that made me think now is the perfect time for a little self assessment - give it a shot! It works for me - of course it may not be for everyone. I love list, so here goes:

1. Yoga - last year, incorporating my practice into daily life was a New Years resolution. This year, I am starting freaking yoga teacher training in 2 weeks!!! I figured we would start off on a good one. My goal over the next 10 weeks is to be a sponge for knowledge, change, and wellness. My goal before the end of the year is to teach my first class on base (freaking out...NAMASTE)!!!!
2. Open a business - I would say I gave this the best shot I have ever towards the beginning of this year. Then tragedy struck in our community and my focus and priorities shifted. I realized - why am I so hell-bent on this goal? What if it's not for me? Why do I have the limiting belief that I will only consider myself successful if I have a business if I tried it and didn't even really like it? I am a firm believer in that everything happens for a reason and I SWEAR that this terrible tragedy opened my life up to a world of shift in my heart.
3. More on that shift - I'm not ready to publicly share what I feel this shift is - but my goal over the next 6 months is to not let go of that pull in my heart. Pay attention to it, dig deeper in how I can really make this shift in my life (hint: it involves a career and helping others, shocker), and have the confidence to step into what I know in my heart is right. Oh and another mental note - stop FEAR in its tracks. Just because we may try and "fail" (is it really failing if it wasn't right for us all along?) doesn't mean that we should hold ourselves back in our minds from trying something new and being worthy of ACHIEVING.
4. Get with it woman - so little old me (Girl in the Healthy City) has slightly derailed from the healthy train. Yes, this is normal. Yes, it's OK. However, I KNOW I feel much better when I am on the track. There are many excuses I can think of as to why I've derailed: we got married 6 months ago and we've been celebrating ever since, food tastes yummy, wine is fuzzy, I like sweets. OK- that was really honest. However, I also know I have been hiding behind my food - so, quinoa, veggies, lets do this. My goal over the next 6 months is to eat what makes my body feel good. Even if that's a glass of wine on a Tuesday night (in moderation) - I want to only fill my body with nourishing, good, clean, living food that will make me thrive. I want to eat more of the good stuff (meat, even carbs!) and less of the bad stuff (no drinking in excess, no sweets in excess). 
5. Spending the dough - whether it's on fancy trips, fancy bags, or just the chance to spend time with friends/family across the country - this one won't ever go away. And quite frankly, I think as a newly married couple we are doing great here. I know it's so easy to get pulled into every which way and I know that it is sometimes unavoidable. However, with my hubby taking an extended business trip next year - I want our goal over the next 6 months to focus on spending $$s that will result in time with loved ones and making memories with each other. So, almost thinking of this as a criteria check-list when considering a trip/purchase: will it mean a lot to the person we are traveling to, how can we make this the best memory for us to share together, how can we be most present in the experience together? 

I hope my little list inspired you all to maybe take a step back and consider what you have coming up in the next 6 months? What are you looking to give in the coming months? What is something you committed yourself to this year but haven't done yet? Maybe your goals need same changing since there has been a shift in your life? Clear your mind,  free your inner judgement - and go for it!! Life's too short not to - and too sweet to leave that last cookie on the plate ;)

xoxo - AM (that's right, I am Mrs. Mays now, wahooo!!!)

Closing in on one of the best years of my life

It is New Years Eve! And the final day in 2014 - I can hardly believe it. While most of us will be putting on our pretty party dresses, sparkly tights, and grabbing a glass of bubbly - many others of us will be reflecting on the past year. Whether it's to a loved one, via a Facebook post, in a journal, or on a blog (hello, and welcome to my version of a diary) - deep reflection of the last 364 days can be a healthy and useful habit for the heart, mind, and year ahead. So this year, instead of looking ahead with resolutions and goals - I have 1 comment about the 2015 and a complete reflection of 2014. I am sure you'll start to see my goals up on my blog as we get into the nitty gritty of 2015 - sometimes sharing makes me feel more accountable ;)

2015- I started my resolutions (I dislike that word - let's call them annual life goals) a week ago. I was putting so much pressure on 1/1/15, which by the way falls on a Thursday off from work = no motivation. I figured if I wanted to change areas of my life, why not start now? Why wait until 1/1 or 1/5 (a Monday when I might have 10% more motivation) and set myself up for failure? If it was in my heart a week before the 1st of January to add/remove/change something in my life -  now was the time to start! I think this is something extremely important to remember about resolutions, life goals, whatever you want to call them. If you want something - go after it NOW. What are you waiting for? There will never be a more perfect time in your life when you're less busy, in a better place, etc. etc. I am by no means saying start something before you want to/are called to - but if it's in your heart don't deprive yourself! The time is NOW! Take that, 1/1/15…

A reflection on 2014 - this year…

1. I started a new job working from home! It has enabled me to spend so much more time with my husband, do something I love much more frequently (which is healthy cooking in the kitchen), and enabled me to focus more on work and less on idle political items that lend themselves to an office environment. I am so beyond grateful for this opportunity and for my friend Rochelle for taking a chance on me - it has changed my entire life and love your for it.
2. I traveled to Chicago for the 1st time! And boy was it cold. But looking back it didn't matter - I was able to see one of my very best friends in what I think was a time we needed to be together most. And yes, we even got to see the Cloud Gate and the view from the top of the Willis Tower! Though Chicago fought me with its 2 degree weather, a stomach bug, and a little travel struggle - I am grateful for my experience there. And plan to visit again during their 100 days of summer next time ;)
3. I tried 20 yoga classes in 30 days! I ended up with 16/20 classes and no regrets (also with a mild case of tennis elbow? thank you a thousand chaturangas and downward facing dogs). This experience changed my entire outlook on yoga - bringing to light the idea that incorporating yoga practice into my daily life (no matter how many times I go to class a week) made me more mindful, peaceful, and grateful. And it made me want to show up on my mat and bring friends to join the crowd as often as I could. I didn't do it because I felt I had to - but because I wanted to. This year, yoga went from an exercise class to a life practice for me - and for that I am tremendously grateful to my friend Katie who first invited me to step foot into that sauna of a classroom :)
4. We got engaged! I could write 35,546 blog posts on my overwhelming feelings about getting engaged this year. The immense feeling of love, support, excitement, deep togetherness, and care that I have with and for the man of my dreams who dropped down and asked me to spend the rest of our lives together this year!!!! I am beyond blessed and grateful forever and ever for this moment together and all of the congratulations/love/support we received from family and friends.
5. Drew hit a huge accomplishment! Without going into detail, I will say that I am so proud of the guy I met at a bar in NYC and the man he is. Also, big life events call for big family gatherings - and to have both my and his family here in San Diego together celebrating one of our own, was an unbelievable feeling. Togetherness was certainly a theme in our lives this year and we are so grateful for all of the love and support from our family and friends.
6. We moved! I just have to put this one on here (and you'll start to notice a theme) because myself and my 2 sister wives who I have endless thank yous to radiate to for the remainder of my existence - did this on our own for the most part. There were tons of other people (including males) who helped to make this happen but it was pretty damn empowering that 3 women joined by friendship could move all of my crap, and all of my husbands crap - into a new house in a matter of 3 days. 
7. Deployment! We did it! And though it wasn't the longest or most difficult of deployments by some military standard, I personally feel accomplished in this experience. The big scary elephant that had been hanging out in the garage for far too long (his name is Deployment) came front and center in our lives this year and we conquered him. This would have been impossible without the love and support from my sister wives, family, friends, and the smiling people on base at the supermarket (seriously). I feel again empowered that you can do anything you set your mind to - and that experiences only have feelings associated with them that you allow. Don't just accept and assign fear/anxiety/sadness to an experience because everyone else says that's what it is. Figure it out for yourself and enter into each experience with a clean set of expectations. 
8. We had a wedding :) This was no joke the most magical, unreal, overwhelming, exciting, and heart filled 24 hours of my life!! We cannot thank our family and friends enough for all of their love, support, travel near and far, and outpouring of gifts and well wishes for the future. Every detail of the day was more perfect than I could have ever conjured up in my over planning mind. I feel like I got actual time with every single 1 of our 122 guests. I loved my dress. I loved having 10 bridesmaids. I love getting married outside after sunset. And most importantly- I loved seeing my man standing at the end of that isle waiting for me as I walked towards him. Seeing his smiling face back at me made every single dollar, detail, and distress worth it - I truly was blessed to marry the man of my dream this year.
9. We went to Hawaii! I am including this one because it was on my vision board and it happened!! Thanks to gracious gifts from family this dream was able to come true. And boy did we enjoy it - from hiking through a bamboo forest through a river and up to a waterfall, to 45 ft cliff diving, to swimming alongside sea turtles, to being at the top of an old volcano at sunrise then biking 28 miles down to the bottom - our hearts were full of the amazing natural beauty this wonderful place has to offer. And we got to experience all of these adventures together - making memories I will cherish for as long as I live :)
10. We had our 1st Christmas together as husband and wife :) First off I'd like to thank my parents for pulling off Santa for nearly 12 years in our household (yes, I'll admit that haha). It is extremely difficult to keep secrets and surprises!! With all the excitement of the year we were excited to stay at home base for the holiday - but part of me wondered if we would long for family and friends. We missed you all of course - but boy did we make it a magical day!! To celebrate the joy of Christmas together (I'm lucky he's even home for Christmas) and to be able to share that with folks at the local shelter and friends here - was magnificent. We will of course be going to see my old boyfriend NYC next year, and a trip to Dallas too :) but I could't be more grateful for how perfect this year was.

When we shift our focus to reflect on what we are grateful for NOW instead of bypassing right over it all and onto 2015, we set ourselves up for success in the new year. Half of goal setting is realizing how many goals (big or small!) you've already accomplished. How many great life experiences you've already been fortunate enough to have! Reflecting on these moments enables us to be filled with gratitude - and a happy heart. So that when we are ready to look forward to 2015 - we come from a place of confidence and love. I am so grateful to be able to say I had the best 2014 a girl could not even have pictured in her wildest dreams. I am so excited for continued love, excitement, and happiness in this great world in 2015 :)

xoxo, 

- AM ;)

Where do you go, my lovely?

Hello out there world! I hope things have just been splendid since we last spoke. I am in a funny spot and had to quickly share my thoughts - curious if any of you have ever felt this way. Have you ever found yourself at a complete cross roads? I feel like that happens to a lot of people on the holidays - all the planning, running around, shopping, baking, envelope addressing. And then you arrive - poof, how did I get here? You find yourself wondering: "Did I miss anything along the way? Is there where I should be? Where am I headed?" I am sure a good many of my family members (new and old) would say that this is how a bride feels after her wedding - after all of the excitement is over, you hit the ground. But I don't feel like I ever left the ground - now instead of just standing my ground, I feel like I am lying on it. Wondering where to get up and go. In life, we sometimes find ourselves in the steady arcadian rhythm of daily life. Going to and doing whatever it takes to get day by day. When we finally stop and look at the big picture - what happens if we see nothing? I am going to be an optimist tonight and take that blank space as a fresh canvas - a new place to start. Sometimes blank lets us start from a place we've never come from before. I am sure you are truly enjoying this lofty inner monologue - so to be more specific, I am talking about direction in one's personal  growth in life. Now that I am married and settled in to our new home, I am starved to do some soul searching. I am anxious to get back on the path of least traveled and dig deep - into the big picture - to see what I have to offer up and serve this great earth. Sounds like it's time to whip it the old Passion Test book again (I highly recommend it if you haven't read it). That's all for now - I'm sure I'll be back with more shortly ;)
- xoxo AA

NYR#2: Incorporate Yoga into daily life

Hello out there world! I have some exciting news in the world of yoga that I wanted to share with all of you. It's been about 6 months since I set my NYRs and I've been hard at work on all of them. I have altered my approach slightly since my last post thanks to the insights of a wonderful friend. That is - make monthly goals. Yes of course having a long term plan is essential in life - but what about the little steps we can take (your to-do list doesn't count) each month to get us to the trophy? So since I last checked in on the progress of my NYRs - I decided to take yoga on the monthly level to try out this new approach…and I failed - thankfully! I may be confusing you right now, so listen up. I set a goal to do 20 yoga classes in 30 days (or 1 month). I figured - a few 4 class weeks here and a few 3 class weeks there and I'd be done. I was wrong - it was horrible. You have to understand my backstory with yoga - my 1st class was in a basement room of NYSC in 2011, the morning after a long night out enjoying all that NYC had to offer - and I was terrible. Awful. Promised myself I would never go back again. I had a few dabblings again between then and now but flash forward from my 1st class to January of 2013 - my 1st official full year living in California. I decided now that I lived on the West Coast, I was going to try on this West Coast lifestyle for a bit. A lovely encouraging friend from work named Katie finally dragged me to class with her after I blew her off at least 4 times. I was intimated, hot, scared, and as far from Gumby flexible as possible. But I went, I stayed, and I didn't hate it! So I tried a free week at the studio, then signed up for their Groupon deal, then became a member. Within a matter of months I had forced myself out of my comfort zone and onto my mat - and I was pretty happy about it.

Now onto January 2014, when this yoga NYR was made - I had been doing yoga for a year at that point but wanted more, wanted to really make something out of my practice. That's when the 20 classes in 30 days happen. The reason it was miserable? Not only were my elbows tender and burning with pain, but I felt as though the challenge had ruined yoga for me. I made it to 16/20 classes - which is not half bad, but not the point. I realized that in this challenge, I loved yoga, and that I didn't need to check a certain number of classes off of a list to incorporate it into my daily life. That was the good news that came out of this whole NYR and challenge - I had finally realized my love of yoga had nothing to do with how frequently I showed up on my mat, but rather how frequently I could take what I learned in class off my mat. And that truly it is the goal of yoga.

Since then, I've shown up on my mat no more than 2 or 3 days each week, and when I am not in my practice, you bet damn sure I am trying to make sure my mind is. In other workout classes, I push myself knowing I am strong and I can finish just like my yogis tell me. I catch myself tightening my core to fix my posture, reminding myself that this will help me get dolphin pose next time. And in times of stress or frustration, I remind myself to breath, and to focus my attention on only those things that serve and do good in my life and the lives of others. Am I perfect? Absolutely not - but that's when you'll find me back on my mat, seeking more. And when I am on my mat now, I don't take my time for granted or try to check the class off the list. I am present, I am aware, and I am there because I know that 1 hour will push me to insert all the good yoga has to offer into all of the other parts of my life.

xoxo and Namaste ;) - AA