Cool Images....by Lisa

We decided to write about our latest interests, and mine is photography. I have been taking all kinds of pictures with my little point-and-shoot camera that I carry in my purse at all times. You never know when a great photo op is going to present itself (like the time the Taco Bell sign said "Take Home a Penis"). The pictures on my facebook page are almost all taken with a camera phone or my point-and-shoot. I decided it was time for a more sophisticated camera, so I bought my first digital SLR camera--the kind where you can manually focus and determine all the settings, or you can let the camera determine everything. I have had all kinds of cameras in the past--including my dad's old Brownie camera, when I was kid, the kind that has a neck strap and you wear it like a professional camera, but you look into the viewfinder by looking down into the top of the camera. I had the instamatic, the long, rectangular thing where you had to buy the strip of flash bulbs and each one burned out when you took a flash photo--remember those? We probably all burned our fingers handling them too soon after taking the picture. My grandmother would always ask me to adjust the settings on her instamatic before taking family pictures--remember those days? Posing, smiling until you thought your face would freeze like that, wishing they'd take the dang picture already! And how about the Polaroids, the quality wasn't very good but it was fun to watch the picture develop before your eyes. Then there was the the Canon camera I got when Brian was born, where you put the film in and had to manually advance it to the first shot, and use the auto rewind feature to wind it back into the cartridge before opening the camera, or you'd ruin the film by overexposing it to light. My sister gave me the Yashica camera that took panoramic photos on regular film-- those were so cool. I remember taking pictures of the 17 kids Brian went to prom with using that camera--fun times and great memories. Since then it's been a series of point-and-shoots like the Sony digital camera that originally was nearly $400 and too big and heavy for a shirt pocket and now isn't much bigger than a deck of cards. The Olympus Stylus--I liked that one because it had a good zoom lens and the cool way the front cover slid open and closed. My latest point-and-shoot, which I love because it's small and lightweight and has a permanent spot in my purse, and takes great pictures by the way, is a Canon Powershot A3100 IS. It's 12.1 megapixel, which is plenty. One of the many things I've learned as I've started studying photography more seriously, is that increasing megapixel capability isn't the key to great pictures--its using light to your advantage. My DSLR camera is a Nikon D3100, I bought it after consulting with my photography class instructor. It's actually not nearly as heavy as older cameras, even with the 200mm zoom lens, and that's important to me--I just won't carry a heavy camera around. That's why I never was much for taking videos before--the videocamera is too heavy. My new camera records video in 1080p, so I'm all set now, no excuses. I'm taking an advanced digital photography class that starts Monday and I can't wait! I'm looking forward to learning a lot more about how to use my new camera. I also found a great book, available in Kindle format only, entitled "Improve Your Photography: How Budding Photographers Can Get Pro Results", by Jim Harmer. This is a really helpful guide that is easy to understand and helps you learn the fundamentals of your camera. He's also on facebook, look for ImprovePhotography. He posted some really cool photos he took on a recent trip to Yellowstone, using a $12,000 lens he borrowed. I love going places and taking pictures. Maybe I'll hit the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden on the right weekend in April, when the 90,000 tulip bulbs they planted last fall are in perfect bloom. Last year I got some beautiful pictures there. Now I'm keeping track of the phase of the moon, reading about how to photograph it and end up with something better than a picture of bright yellow spot in a black sky. Happy Shooting!

Repinned! ....by Jodi

Yes, I have a new addiction. It is called, Pinterest. I am in good company with it, I have a bunch of people to follow and who like to follow me. It beats reading magazines for ideas anymore. I don't tear out recipes, ideas, clothes or places to shop anymore. I just pin them. No more magazine clutter! 

I saw on my Facebook that some people had lovely pictures and ideas, I clicked on one and it peaked my interest, it was Pinterest. I started browsing and there were lots of cool ideas. I am going through major changes right now and I can use Pinterest to find out about my likes and dislikes. I sent for an invitation and I was addicted! 

I like the ALL category best because I see a little bit of everything. You choose the areas you want boards in and then you assign the photos and their information to those areas. I have recipes, inspiration to lose weight, fun, style, etc. I have found so many things on Pinterest, I adore it. I mark all sorts of things, from rooms I like, to places I think are beautiful and to how to make a rug! I have cute Valentine ideas and have gotten fabulous ideas for Fun Friday class. I pinned a photo of Beth Moore, she is a dynamo to me. I pinned Bible verses that mean something to my heart, I pinned pictures of convertibles because I adore them. I can cook until the cows come home! Did someone say, "boots?" Oh yes, I found me lots of boots, books, baubles and hair dos galore! I know I am a girl because of various reasons but I am totally loving the endless world of Pinterest!

I really need to begin to invest in a new wardrobe. Pinterest helps me figure out what I like. There are outfit ideas posted with accessories, shoes, purses and jeans. I am in heaven looking at them. There are animal photos, from Rottweiler puppies to a sign with a Weiner dog that says, "It's a good thing you are home, someone pooped in the house." Which is so my story! I can make champagne with popscicles in the glasses for desserts, I can choose funky outdoor fireplaces or hammocks to lay under with twinkling lights above them. I can choose a photo at the beach or in Paris or Greece. They give me motivational words to lose weight, to being a mom, I think I need to go back and pin the thing that says, "My sister has never been the same since that house fell on her." Get it? The HOUSE, The Wizard of Oz!? Yeah, well, I thought it was funny and cute. I know someone else on Pinterest did!

On Pinterest, I can plan the perfect party, bake the perfect cake or make the perfect craft...it shows me I can be PERFECT. I know nothing is perfect and Pinterest is giving that illusion it can exist. You know, sometimes perfection does exist, it's all where your head is. For me, I can escape for a bit and let my mind wander. After all, wouldn't it be nice to drive your convertible down the beach, wearing bedazzled jeans with an old tshirt and wearing sh@t kicking boots and listening to Cyndi Lauper on the IPod? Maybe I can make that into a reality? With Pinterest, I know I CAN! ;)

Where the Rubber Meets the Road, or Following Through on an Intention....by Lisa

So 2102 is a week old now, and those of us who have made intentions (or resolutions) are now asking ourselves “What the heck have I signed myself up for?” I’m chuckling, because I’ve been through this a few times in my 47 years. What was my intention again? Oh yeah, it was to think about my legacy. I’m thinking about it, still need to dig the book that has a chapter on legacies out of a box (didn’t unpack all of my books, figuring I’m on the move again sometime in the next couple years). I had an inspiration today, and I’m looking into whether Puddy Tat would make a good therapy cat. Okay, go ahead and laugh, but yes, cats can be therapy animals. She is used to the dog, she loves to sleep on people’s laps, and she isn’t afraid of anything. And she’s small, only about 6 pounds, so not too heavy for a fragile person’s lap. If I can just get her to come down from the top of the bookcase, we’ll be in business…

On another note, I have a new intention of sorts that is coincidentally happening at the new year. When I saw my sister over the holidays, I was inspired by her diligence in doing the P90X workout series. Being much more of a wimp than my sister, I am now one week into the 10 minute trainer workouts from the same guy, Tony Horton (http://www.beachbody.com/product/p90x-online/shop_programs/10_minute_trainer.do). It’s already helping me feel less achey than I normally do on a daily basis, after I got over the initial soreness. It kicks your butt, but only for 10-15 minutes a day. I like that it’s an organized program, I don’t have to think about what to do on any given day, just follow the calendar they give you and press play on the DVD. It came with the resistance band so I don’t need any other equipment. And there’s enough room in my living room to do it. If you want to work out for more than 10 minutes, you can stack workouts such as cardio, yoga, total body, and do more than 1 per day. I’m still on one per day J.  And I have cut back on how much I’m eating, and you know what? I feel fine. I’m not starving, don’t feel deprived. The biggest change is I’ve stopped snacking after dinner. Adios, muffin top.

Anyway, what’s the key to sticking with a program, be it an intention, a resolution, whatever? Part of it is being ready to do it. I think it helps if you can try your best and not beat yourself up (which discourages you from picking it up again) if you fall off the wagon for a while. At this point in life I realize that many things are temporary, and there is always something new to try. It’s fine to do one thing for a while, and then find something else. I think exercise, expecially for us non-athletes, is about trying different things until you find the one that works for you. I’ve always done well with aerobics, I love to walk, and I hate running and working out at a gym. So exercising at home, for 10-15 minutes a day in addition to walking, is perfect. It’s like any other health habit, you have to find what works for you, and not everything is going to be a perfect fit. Don’t give up! Find a buddy, that helps too. I’ve always enjoyed walking with a buddy, it improves my body and my spirit. Have a healthy 2012!

Ugh, really?....by Jodi

Yes, really. I did it. I went to the gym. It's the beginning of the year and I dressed myself and hauled it out to the gym. I stumbled (literally) climbing on to the treadmill, I had to figure out how to use the crazy thing and away it went. I was going with or without my leg! Heavens yes, I went SLOW, yes, I just went 12 minutes. But, I went and that is what matters. I (again, literally) stumbled off the treadmill, with my iPod, jacket, lip balm, sunglasses and required towel in hand. I broke wind (no, not farting) and dragged myself over to the drinking fountain to drink. I forgot my water, of course. At the drinking fountain there was a guy washing his hands in the fountain! Really? Yes, I lost my appetite. Forgot the water, used some antibacterial gel and sat down in the waiting area for Dan to finish up.

I sat and thought I should have done better. Then, reality struck in, I went and did! I am proud of myself for just completing the process! I only went for about 12 minutes at a quarter of a mile, at hold on to your hat, a speed of 1.5! Hey, it's a place to start! If I can do that in a week, than next week I can up it. I could have gone until I was exhausted but then I would be done for the day. Sad, but true. I want to shower and go to the store and enjoy the beautiful weather. I did what I could do and I will get better! Are there older people who can do better? Yes. But how many of them have had weight loss surgery and a stroke? Yeah, there will always be the stronger, faster people out there and I need to be alright with that. I am getting there, my family makes me feel like I should go better, do more, be the best, but reality says I just need to figure out what works for me. It is an all new me and I am figuring it out as I go along!

As I sat in the chair, I checked out the people and their clothes, of course. I came to the conclusion that no one who joins the gym in this neighborhood is poor. They all have really nice shoes! The cheapest shoes I saw were Sketchers. I know it isn't about having a name brand but I am just sayin'! I thought I would head to the Nike Woman store and have some Nikes made with pink and black, very lightweight. Sounds fun, eh?

I know I need a bag to haul all my stuff in. I knew which one I would make my gym bag for now. I saw socks, they weren't very festive but I know how important good socks are! I am not being sarcastic, good socks are truly important. I think that is where I will begin. I also looked at hairdos, of course! My hair is thinning from surgery (normal) it is awkward to pull it up for me without the full use of my left arm so I need a hat. Baseball caps are not for me because I still have to ponytail it. I want one of those winter hats with a sock monkey design. Yes, I know it's weird but I think it will work and so you know what I will be looking to buy! Oh, I checked out the guys too, hehehe. They looked clean and some were definitely cool and some definitely were trying to be cool. We had the old men and the high school boys, ultimately, this short, chubby, bald guy with sweat pouring off of him rounded the corner, THAT was my guy! He loves me and even better, I love him and we are adding another chapter to our book of us. I know...ugh...really? You betcha'!  

New Year’s Intentions (new twist on New Year’s Resolutions)...by Lisa

A few years ago, I stopped making several resolutions for the new year, and instead I began making just one resolution each year. I wish I could remember what each of those resolutions was, and whether I successfully fulfilled it, but I can’t remember, except the year I decided to get in the habit of flossing my teeth. I still floss just about every day. I know, it sounds mundane, but try it, you might like it if you get in the habit. Heck, even the cat likes to floss with the other end of the strand (okay, I know, its gross, but she loves mint floss). During the last couple of years, at times when I was really low, I knew I would be okay if I could just keep flossing—and I was! Fine, go ahead and laugh. Last year, Jodi let me in on what she does as a new year’s tradition:  she makes an intention, instead of a resolution. I really like the concept. First, I like the idea of having an idea and an intention and not having the need to beat yourself up if you don’t keep up with it. Why add negativity? We don’t need any more of that. I like the idea of having flexibility to change the intention or change direction, because we know that the winds of change are constantly blowing. A year can be a long time to try to keep a resolution. I’ve been thinking lately about my legacy and what that will be. According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, a legacy can be a bequest of money or personal property, or something received from an ancestor or predecessor. My philosophy, shaped in part by the legacy of volunteering and serving others left by my grandparents, Adeline and Jim, is that a meaningful legacy for me is one that involves an investment of my time and talents, not just writing checks. It’s not so much an inheritance of money and possessions, but an example of serving, for others to follow after I am gone. So for 2012, my intention is to check out the volunteer opportunities in my area, and see what matches my skills and interests, and try a few out in hopes of finding one that I can invest my time in on a regular basis.  I’ll keep you posted this year on how it goes. And if you have any suggestions, please feel free to comment. I’m keeping an open mind as I look for my niche. Happy New Year, and good luck if you make a new year’s intention!

Intentions.... by Jodi

Ready? Set. GO!

This will be one of those big years for me. I know it because I specifically did some things to change my life. Others can see the changes, so they know I am not just whistling Dixie! I am excited to see how things turn out this year!

I worked on my list of intentions throughout the month of December. I will continue to work on it in January and actually I will continue it through out the year. Last year I went crazy and totally went off my list but it was a very good move. My husband did the same thing, we had gastric sleeve surgery. It has changed our lives in countless ways and we are very glad we did it. Yesterday more of my clothes and practically all of my shoes left this house with a friend. I had 5 sizes in my closet but now I am almost at size 14, the last one. The width of my feet has even changed. It was really hard to see those things leave but I know I am moving on to better things!

My list of intentions got divided into three areas; mind, body and spirit. I wrote everything down that I wanted to pay attention to throughout the year. Some will get more attention than others. I will share a few to give you an idea.

For my mind, I signed up to teach my Fun Friday classes again. I signed up for 10 weeks starting in the winter. I thought I would stop them but I really like doing them and I enjoy serving others who just wanna have fun!

For my body, I am going to physical therapy for my arm. I need it, it hurts but I am going and that is what counts for me. I joined the gym and intend to walk, very slowly, on the treadmill. I don't care how fast I go, I just need to move.

For my spirit, I want to get closer to my God and be comfortable and spiritual again. I have been going to Bible study each week. I am going to ask a women there to be my mentor. She is married for a very long time, has a huge family, was a nurse and knows the word of God. I like her and want her to influence my life.

Just for giggles, I want to go zip lining! We can go right on Catalina Island now. I am going! I want Lisa to go with me, I think it is only appropriate don't you? A couple of my other friends now want to go so that might be one of those things that will happen this year? Woooohooo!

There are other things on my list but I shared just a few to give you an idea. I also am going to do The 30 Day Photo Gratitude Challenge for January because I think it will be a tool to get to know myself better. I will also continue my Gratitude List because it totally makes me stop and appreciate the things I have in my life. I am fond of a new social network called, Pinterest. I intend to use it to also figure out the NEW me. It's got a slew of recipes, craft ideas, clothes and more. Lisa and I are also going to be accountability partners, a new thing for us. I think it will be a good thing. We are READY, good and bad, BRING IT! Happy New Year!