Logan - GIM Training
This past week I attended a GIM training - level 1 in Logan, Utah. I have to say I experienced many new things every day, and am very grateful for these experiences. A lot of the new experiences are very personal, so I will just share a few of the new things I experienced.
First I will give a brief synopsis on what GIM is. Not many people have heard about it. GIM is another extension of music therapy, in a psychotherapeutic form. It stands for Guided Imagery in Music. It is a therapeutic process using music and a trained facilitator to create an environment in which one can experience personal insights and possibly provide answers and guidance for important life issues. During a GIM session the therapist, after an assessment, chooses specific music to play during the session. Sessions last from 1 - 1.5 hours. The client is prepared through relaxation and breathing techniques, and given thoughts or images to think about. As the music is playing the client in a sense goes on a "journey" into their sub conscious mind, where they are able to explore things that they are currently experiencing or questions they may be having. The music helps with the journey. It was amazing to witness and experience how the music truly helps you though issues you may currently going through. As the journey takes place, the client is very much aware of what is going on around them, as well as inside, so you are not hypnotized at all. The client tells the therapist what they are experiencing throughout the event. After the experience they process what happened. It's such an amazing experience, and one that I am grateful to have been able to experience. It has helped me through several things in my life at this time. It has also intrigued me into going on to become a GIM therapist. There is a lot more schooling and training that needs to occur, but it will happen at the right time. I was also able to be trained a bit in Music and Imagery. This is a technique with the use of mandalas. These are drawings drawn in a circle to specific music. After, the pictures may be looked at or processed, as they generally contain things occurring in our sub conscious. It's a great problem solving technique, or a way to see what is occurring in our hearts at this time. This was a REALLY long week, and I came home last night exhausted physically, emotionally and mentally. I wasn't planning on it, but I stayed the weekend as well to attend several workshops at the Mountain West Songfest and Symposium occurring.
Things that I will share is on Monday, I went with a fellow trainer to Cafe Ibis in Logan. We were driving around looking for a place to have lunch, and thought it would be a good place to try. I went out on a limb and tried the tofu stir fry wrap. The tofu wasn't bad, actually I didn't even notice it. It tasted like any other kind of meat.
Tuesday and Thursday mornings, I woke up early (on own), and went for really long runs in the neighborhood I was staying at. Logan is absolutely gorgeous at this time of year!
Wednesday, my friend I was staying with took me and another friend also staying there out on Logan river and I was able to experience kayaking. This was so much fun! I laughed at myself several times trying to figure out the right way and pressure needed to row the boat correctly.
I actually drove home Friday night to return the company car, and then drove back up to Logan with a friend to attend the Saturday workshops. During our lunch break we drove out to Pepperidge Farm's company and went to their outlet store. They had T shirts with gold fish crackers on them. A lot of fun things, and really cheap cookies. It smelled SOOOOO good in the store.
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Sunday, June 22, 2008
Day 88 - June 22, 2008
(Sorry I didn't post this week. I had been really busy with a Conference and also our internet was having some technical difficulties....here are the catch up posts)
Journaling
This morning the weather was so nice, and I tend to have a tradition of journaling for the week on Sunday morning, that I decided to do this outside, at a park, in Provo canyon. It was so nice and peaceful. I think I may do this again someday.
Journaling
This morning the weather was so nice, and I tend to have a tradition of journaling for the week on Sunday morning, that I decided to do this outside, at a park, in Provo canyon. It was so nice and peaceful. I think I may do this again someday.
Day 87 - June 21, 2008
Summer is HERE!!!!
To celebrate the first day of summer I went on a bike ride.... that is I went on a long bike ride..... a little over 16 miles. I have never gone this far before. During this trip I have discovered that I am still slow at biking, but this is great because I can only get better. It took me about 1 hour 45 minutes to do this trip. But I did have to stop a couple times to adjust some things on my bike. But I am still going to count that time to make me feel better when I decrease the time on the next adventure. I also discovered that Provo has a LOT of hills. Also I tend to enjoy riding my bike going downhill than uphill. Hopefully by the end of summer I will enjoy doing both.
To celebrate the first day of summer I went on a bike ride.... that is I went on a long bike ride..... a little over 16 miles. I have never gone this far before. During this trip I have discovered that I am still slow at biking, but this is great because I can only get better. It took me about 1 hour 45 minutes to do this trip. But I did have to stop a couple times to adjust some things on my bike. But I am still going to count that time to make me feel better when I decrease the time on the next adventure. I also discovered that Provo has a LOT of hills. Also I tend to enjoy riding my bike going downhill than uphill. Hopefully by the end of summer I will enjoy doing both.
Day 86 - June 20, 2008
My Guitar Now ROCKS!!!
Despite being EXHAUSTED from commuting to the conference and everything that occurred during the week, I still did something new. I actually changed, for the first time, the strings on my guitar. This is really sad to admit that it has taken me this long to put on new strings on my guitar. (Note: I find that I tend to take care of the instruments at work much more efficiently than my own... that's sad) I have had my guitar for several years now, and you should change them every 6 months or at least once a year. Well I bought the strings about 6 months ago, but have never taken the time to actually put them on. I finally did this, and now the strings don't hurt my fingers as bad, and sounds a lot better.
Despite being EXHAUSTED from commuting to the conference and everything that occurred during the week, I still did something new. I actually changed, for the first time, the strings on my guitar. This is really sad to admit that it has taken me this long to put on new strings on my guitar. (Note: I find that I tend to take care of the instruments at work much more efficiently than my own... that's sad) I have had my guitar for several years now, and you should change them every 6 months or at least once a year. Well I bought the strings about 6 months ago, but have never taken the time to actually put them on. I finally did this, and now the strings don't hurt my fingers as bad, and sounds a lot better.
Day 85 - June 19, 2008
We Dance to a New Rhythm: Drumming out Drugs
What a great way to celebrate the 85th day... I presented at the Substance and Alcohol Abuse Conference on Music Therapy and Substance Abuse. The presentation went really well. We had a lot of fun, and everyone was able to gain new insights into themselves and how powerful music therapy can be in a life. I believe that to truly understand music therapy, you need to personally experience it. So my presentation consisted mostly of experiential exercises. We drummed as a group, sang, wrote songs, and listened to music. I was going to spend time discussing the logistics of music therapy and how it benefits the mind, emotions, and can cause chemical changes to occur in the brain. Unfortunately we ran out of time, and I was not able to do this part. So hopefully they will read their handout on the info. I have already been invited back to next year's conference to present again, and they are giving me an additional hour to present.
What a great way to celebrate the 85th day... I presented at the Substance and Alcohol Abuse Conference on Music Therapy and Substance Abuse. The presentation went really well. We had a lot of fun, and everyone was able to gain new insights into themselves and how powerful music therapy can be in a life. I believe that to truly understand music therapy, you need to personally experience it. So my presentation consisted mostly of experiential exercises. We drummed as a group, sang, wrote songs, and listened to music. I was going to spend time discussing the logistics of music therapy and how it benefits the mind, emotions, and can cause chemical changes to occur in the brain. Unfortunately we ran out of time, and I was not able to do this part. So hopefully they will read their handout on the info. I have already been invited back to next year's conference to present again, and they are giving me an additional hour to present.
Day 84 - June 18, 2008
The Training Continues...
Despite life still going on, I have decided that I need to make time to also do some running (or really jogging) to get somewhat ready for the 5k I am participating in on the 4th of July. I have not been able to do much physical activity for about over a month, so it's been hard to get back into the shape I was before. But today I was able to run the high school track for half the 5k that I will be running. This was really good, as I could barely do 1 mile on Monday on the track. I found out that to run around the track 12 times is equivalent to a 5k. So hopefully if I keep increasing it, I will be ready.
Despite life still going on, I have decided that I need to make time to also do some running (or really jogging) to get somewhat ready for the 5k I am participating in on the 4th of July. I have not been able to do much physical activity for about over a month, so it's been hard to get back into the shape I was before. But today I was able to run the high school track for half the 5k that I will be running. This was really good, as I could barely do 1 mile on Monday on the track. I found out that to run around the track 12 times is equivalent to a 5k. So hopefully if I keep increasing it, I will be ready.
Day 83 - June 17, 2008
Substance Abuse Conference
I was able to go to some of the University of Utah School on Alcoholism and Other Drug Dependencies Conference. It has been going on all week, but I will only be able to go to some of it. I found out that this is one of the best conferences in the west to attend regarding Substance and Alcohol Abuse. I learned a lot for the sessions I was able to attend, and have a new desire and passion to go back to work.
I was able to go to some of the University of Utah School on Alcoholism and Other Drug Dependencies Conference. It has been going on all week, but I will only be able to go to some of it. I found out that this is one of the best conferences in the west to attend regarding Substance and Alcohol Abuse. I learned a lot for the sessions I was able to attend, and have a new desire and passion to go back to work.
Day 82 - June 16, 2008
Charting
I actually completed all my charting for Monday on Monday! This is a big thing for me, because it's my busiest day with groups, and I tend to be so tired after my last group that I decide to go home and just chart the next day. But I stayed at work until charting was ALL done. I don't know why I don't do that more often. It was actually nice not to have to worry about it during the week.
I actually completed all my charting for Monday on Monday! This is a big thing for me, because it's my busiest day with groups, and I tend to be so tired after my last group that I decide to go home and just chart the next day. But I stayed at work until charting was ALL done. I don't know why I don't do that more often. It was actually nice not to have to worry about it during the week.
Day 81 - June 15, 2008
The Choir
I conducted the Relief Society in a musical number at Church on Sunday. I've never conducted a choir before in Sacrament Meeting. It was a lot of fun, and a good experience. We had been working on this for several months, and were finally able to perform it. It went really well, and I was told that Elder Oaks was even in the congregation (although I think he left right before we sang because his grandson spoke right before then.)
I conducted the Relief Society in a musical number at Church on Sunday. I've never conducted a choir before in Sacrament Meeting. It was a lot of fun, and a good experience. We had been working on this for several months, and were finally able to perform it. It went really well, and I was told that Elder Oaks was even in the congregation (although I think he left right before we sang because his grandson spoke right before then.)
Sunday, June 15, 2008
My Really, really REALLY cool DAd!!!
It's Father's Day and I wanted to let everyone (who doesn't already know this yet) what an amazing dad I have. He can fix anything, build anything, cook anything, clean everything, a story teller, singer/ song writer, listener, counselor, is exceptionally talented, teacher, doctor, inventor, cheerleader and someone I consider to be one of my good friends. He is always looking to serve and help others. I remember many a times when he created jobs for me or my siblings to help us out financially, or offered jobs to friends or acquaintances to help them get back on their feet.My dad taught me the importance of being honest and giving your best self when helping someone. I was taught how to be a hard worker, and that we help each other as a family. I remember getting up many times early Saturday morning to go help sweep or clean one of my dad's homes he was building. After, we were able to celebrate our accomplishment with a Big Gulp, or even splurge on a moon pie, doughnuts, or hot dog/ hamburger at AM/PM. I also remember many a Saturday nights/ Sunday mornings assisting my dad with delivering newspapers. Those were the biggest papers of the week, and they needed to be done quickly, so we would help out as much as possible. Despite being tired, car sick, cold and really dirty, I have many fond memories through those experiences. I heard some great stories, songs and was able to develop a love of the "oldies" music, and get to know my dad better. My dad was the courageous, and fortunate one to teach me how to drive. I was informed that if I would get up and help out with the newspapers Saturday night/ Sunday morning, I could learn to drive. I think that everyone needs to learn how to drive that way. I was able to get a lot of freeway driving experience, and learned how to maneuver around trailer parks and neighborhoods fast (yet still being cautious). He also gave me the privilege
of teaching me how to deal with a car in any type of situation on the road, whether it be that you run out of gas, your breaks stop working, car over heats, tire goes flat, or the transmission just doesn't want to work, and will die every time you make a left turn, or even slow down. I don't think many girl's my age could deal with those situations if they occurred. My dad was such a hard worker and would do anything for our family. I remember many a times when despite him being in pain, or not feeling the best still working 2 jobs to be able to make sure the family had their needs met.My dad taught me the importance of following rules, and directions, but that it is still good to think "outside the box." I would watch him look at problems that arose with building homes and how he was able to "create" a new way to repair or solve the problem that may not have been looked at before. I still remember a time I was given the opportunity to help build a garage with my brother and dad. Something had happened, where we had measured everything correctly, but we couldn't get some sheet rock or something into the garage to put up. My dad thought about it for a minute and then came up with a way to get it in that I had never thought about before. I also remember a time that my car battery cables kept slipping off, resulting with the car stopping. My dad was able to figure out a way to solve the problem without us having to buy any new parts. Nothing was too difficult for my dad it always seemed like.
I am grateful that he taught me how a dad can do a lot in the home. I feel that he contributed a lot to my love of cooking. I loved being in the kitchen and helping my dad with his latest concoction. I seem to always remember him cooking something on the weekends. He would make the BEST breakfasts for us. They may not have been the most nutritious, but they tasted SOOOO good. He was known for his bread, and cinnamon rolls he made. I remember him also always bringing home a new type of fruit or food that I had never had or even heard before, and encouraging us to try new things. Dinnertimes were a lot of fun as we were able to hear stories of the crazy things my dad did while growing up or the adventures he encountered while on his mission in the Philippines.
Some of my precious memories are things that I have been able to do with my dad. I remember one time my younger siblings and I woke up early one Saturday morning (of course that really wasn't unusual) and my dad took us on a bike ride to Jack in the Box for breakfast. I also remember a time that my dad flew us to Disneyland for a day. I remember always thinking how cool my dad was because he would go on the fast, 
and scary rides with us. I also remember many summer vacations where my dad would pack us kids up to go to Southern Utah for the weekend. We would visit with my grandparent's and go up to their ranch where we were able to camp, fish, shoot cans, hike, cook, and ride motorcycles. I also remember many times being in the car with just my dad and hearing him sing hymn, or just crazy songs that I am now finding out were actually on the radio at one time. I remember several times being with my dad and him showing me the importance of taking advantage of the time you have. We would explore new places or shops that we would pass on the road. I felt like I was always on an adventure with him. My dad has instilled in me a love of older movies. He introduced me to many great black and white movies. I still love to watch the older movies because of those experiences. He has a great memory to when it comes to movies. I was able to go to the video store with him and he could give me a plot synopsis of many of the older movies. Many of the times he had only seen them once, and it had been several years since the last viewing of it. My dad was always willing to 
help me out with my homework. I was able to come up with math answers a new and creative way then what my teacher had shown me. I also had some amazing projects thanks to the help of my dad and his many tools. I remember one time building a pyramid out of sugar cubes and my dad helping me sand them down so that it looked really authentic. My dad has taught me that there is always a way to achieve your dreams. I think that it is through my dad that I developed my love for animals. He loves animals and animals love him.
I know that my dad loves my mom, and has shown me the importance of actually showing this. It seemed that he was always thinking of her, and would ask me at times if she would like this, or that. It seemed that he would try to bring home flowers for her whenever possible, or help her out through cleaning, cooking, or taking her out on a date.
My dad has always been there to support me. Whether it is through dealing with an illness, school troubles, friend problems, or just stuff. He has shown me through his own example how to continue and persevere through life, despite it becoming very challenging and at times even not knowing how to continue on. He has never given up when at many a times it would have been so much easier. He has shown me
how to truly love the Lord, have and exercise faith in him, the importance and power of the scriptures, and prayer. He would teach me continually through the scriptures and modern day prophets. He showed me through his life how they can be a strength and support to us. I remember a time when our dog was really sick, and watching my dad pray for her. I was able to see how through prayers and faith she was able to recover. He has been big strength to me in my life. I am truly blessed and grateful that I have had the honor of having him as my dad. He has helped me become the person I am today. Thanks Dad!
Day 80 - June 14, 2008
The Walk
I have been a bit under the weather the past couple of weeks and have not been able to exercise or train for the 5k because of this. Today I needed a break, and realized that I am finally feeling well enough to go to the gym. I went to the gym for strength training, and was about to get on the treadmill, but decided instead to just go for a walk outside, since the weather is finally getting warmer. I walked up a bit on Provo Canyon, and was able to definitely get a cardio workout. Yeah, I have realized how fast you can get out of shape when you stop exercising for a couple of weeks.
I have been a bit under the weather the past couple of weeks and have not been able to exercise or train for the 5k because of this. Today I needed a break, and realized that I am finally feeling well enough to go to the gym. I went to the gym for strength training, and was about to get on the treadmill, but decided instead to just go for a walk outside, since the weather is finally getting warmer. I walked up a bit on Provo Canyon, and was able to definitely get a cardio workout. Yeah, I have realized how fast you can get out of shape when you stop exercising for a couple of weeks.
Day 79 - June 13, 2008
Clean Water
When I woke up this morning, I noticed that my pet, Qi, had moved her tree from one side of the fish bowl to the other side during the night. Apparently she has been watching the home decorating shows with me. But I cleaned her bowl for the first time today. I had this fear that I would traumatize her with moving her from one bowl to another as I cleaned. But she survived, and so did I.
When I woke up this morning, I noticed that my pet, Qi, had moved her tree from one side of the fish bowl to the other side during the night. Apparently she has been watching the home decorating shows with me. But I cleaned her bowl for the first time today. I had this fear that I would traumatize her with moving her from one bowl to another as I cleaned. But she survived, and so did I.
Day 78 - June 12, 2008
Quiet Drives
I realize that I am very accustomed to having music or something going on around me at all times. Today I went without music (as much as I could - I am a music therapist). I noticed out of habit I would reach to turn on my radio in the car after a few minutes, but would stop myself. It was actually nice to be able to have the quiet for a little bit.
I realize that I am very accustomed to having music or something going on around me at all times. Today I went without music (as much as I could - I am a music therapist). I noticed out of habit I would reach to turn on my radio in the car after a few minutes, but would stop myself. It was actually nice to be able to have the quiet for a little bit.
Day 77 - June 11, 2008
Forked Yogurt
I wondered what it would be like to eat yogurt with a fork. I wouldn't recommend it unless you have some extra time available towards eating it. It's also hard to scrape the last part. I eventually had to just give up.
I wondered what it would be like to eat yogurt with a fork. I wouldn't recommend it unless you have some extra time available towards eating it. It's also hard to scrape the last part. I eventually had to just give up.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Day 76 - June 10, 2008
Only 27 more weeks till Christmas!!!
Someone passed this along in an e-mail at work. It made me smile, so I thought I would spread the good cheer to all of you. I had low energy today, so wasn't able to do anything too new. I was thinking I could count the session I did where I told myself I was not going to drum with this group, because my right ear is completely plugged and I can barely hear. I had planned a nice quiet session. Instead we ended up drumming as I saw how they were and felt that they needed a little drumming that day. It actually ended up being a good session, despite the fact that I really didn't have much hearing. (It's a good thing I can still read lips!)
But I instead I was driving to my local Albertson's and was curious as to how many churches I could count on my way home from the grocery store. I ended up counting four.
Oh, my pet fish, Qi, did the funniest dance for me when I came home from work. I wish my stereo would have worked so I could play some music to go along with it. But then I wonder if she would even be able to hear music in the water......
Someone passed this along in an e-mail at work. It made me smile, so I thought I would spread the good cheer to all of you. I had low energy today, so wasn't able to do anything too new. I was thinking I could count the session I did where I told myself I was not going to drum with this group, because my right ear is completely plugged and I can barely hear. I had planned a nice quiet session. Instead we ended up drumming as I saw how they were and felt that they needed a little drumming that day. It actually ended up being a good session, despite the fact that I really didn't have much hearing. (It's a good thing I can still read lips!)
But I instead I was driving to my local Albertson's and was curious as to how many churches I could count on my way home from the grocery store. I ended up counting four.
Oh, my pet fish, Qi, did the funniest dance for me when I came home from work. I wish my stereo would have worked so I could play some music to go along with it. But then I wonder if she would even be able to hear music in the water......
Monday, June 9, 2008
Day 75 - June 9, 2008
Computer pseudo - genius
I am learning how to fix my computer labyrinth's (I love the thesaurus). I had installed Norton's Anti-Virus on my computer about 2 years ago, for only one year. I have realized with a Mac that you really don't need an anti-virus program like you do with a PC (another reason to buy a Mac). I never renewed my program after the year, but had also never took the program off. It became really annoying (REALLY ANNOYING) how the program would start up every time I turned the computer on and I'd have to go through the ordeal of turning it off, etc. My friend, Aaron, tried to help me uninstall it last week, but due to time, and me realizing that I somehow deleted the program that you need to uninstall it, we were unsuccessful. Today I told myself that "I can figure this out on my own." I sat down and with the help of the internet figured out how to uninstall it on my own. Plus it was a success!
I am learning how to fix my computer labyrinth's (I love the thesaurus). I had installed Norton's Anti-Virus on my computer about 2 years ago, for only one year. I have realized with a Mac that you really don't need an anti-virus program like you do with a PC (another reason to buy a Mac). I never renewed my program after the year, but had also never took the program off. It became really annoying (REALLY ANNOYING) how the program would start up every time I turned the computer on and I'd have to go through the ordeal of turning it off, etc. My friend, Aaron, tried to help me uninstall it last week, but due to time, and me realizing that I somehow deleted the program that you need to uninstall it, we were unsuccessful. Today I told myself that "I can figure this out on my own." I sat down and with the help of the internet figured out how to uninstall it on my own. Plus it was a success!
Day 74 - June 8, 2008
What did I do today....
Oh, yeah, this new thing was completely unplanned, but I ended up needing to go to Urgent Care in the morning as I had been experiencing a bad ear infection all night. I've never gone to Urgent Care on a Sunday before. My cousin, Holly, was kind enough to take me and make sure I got my prescriptions filled and any other thing I may have been in need of. We were fortunate enough to get there right when the opened, so there was really no waiting. I also really liked the PA I saw. She was nice and really understanding. I am feeling a lot better since then. Yea!
Oh, yeah, this new thing was completely unplanned, but I ended up needing to go to Urgent Care in the morning as I had been experiencing a bad ear infection all night. I've never gone to Urgent Care on a Sunday before. My cousin, Holly, was kind enough to take me and make sure I got my prescriptions filled and any other thing I may have been in need of. We were fortunate enough to get there right when the opened, so there was really no waiting. I also really liked the PA I saw. She was nice and really understanding. I am feeling a lot better since then. Yea!
Day 73 - June 7, 2008
Fingernail Polish
I am usually one that doesn't wear finger nail polish much. I like the way it looks on my fingers, but I tend to have a hard time putting it on so it looks nice. Generally it tends to chip, and doesn't look nice after a few days (I use my hands a lot!) that I need to take it off. But this was the first week that I can remember ever having fingernail polish on for the entire week, and not even thinking about taking it off! It was actually nice to have it on for awhile. Gave me something new to look at.
I am usually one that doesn't wear finger nail polish much. I like the way it looks on my fingers, but I tend to have a hard time putting it on so it looks nice. Generally it tends to chip, and doesn't look nice after a few days (I use my hands a lot!) that I need to take it off. But this was the first week that I can remember ever having fingernail polish on for the entire week, and not even thinking about taking it off! It was actually nice to have it on for awhile. Gave me something new to look at.
Friday, June 6, 2008
Day 72 - June 6, 2008
Financial Fitness
During the month of June, at work, they are holding a "financially fit" contest. I decided it may be good to join. If you follow the plan, than at the end of the month you are entitled to a drawing of many gift cards. We are to make goals every week on ways to save money, and to get on a budget. Today we received an e-mail showing us different ways to set up a budget. Today I followed the guidelines and set up a budget that I think I can actually follow and help me achieve my financial goals. It took more time than I wanted, but I think it will be worth it.
During the month of June, at work, they are holding a "financially fit" contest. I decided it may be good to join. If you follow the plan, than at the end of the month you are entitled to a drawing of many gift cards. We are to make goals every week on ways to save money, and to get on a budget. Today we received an e-mail showing us different ways to set up a budget. Today I followed the guidelines and set up a budget that I think I can actually follow and help me achieve my financial goals. It took more time than I wanted, but I think it will be worth it.
Day 71 - June 5, 2008
Got Qi? (pronounced "chee")
My friend, Aaron, had told me that I needed more Qi, or instead I needed to balance it out, since it was high in some areas and really low in others. For those of you who haven't heard of "Qi" it's the energy flow within us. This week, I have definitely been needing more Qi in my life. So after work, I went to the store and bought me "Qi"
This is my new pet "Qi," She wouldn't stop swimming long enough for me to take a good picture of her. But then I did sit at the store and try to find the most active, female Betta fish available. She is so pretty. She is a deep blue color with a gorgeous fin. I've never had a pet fish before, and it's actually been a lot more fun than I thought. Plus the care for her is low maintenance. I think that besides having a great pet, this may be a great way to get my Qi flowing more :-)
My friend, Aaron, had told me that I needed more Qi, or instead I needed to balance it out, since it was high in some areas and really low in others. For those of you who haven't heard of "Qi" it's the energy flow within us. This week, I have definitely been needing more Qi in my life. So after work, I went to the store and bought me "Qi"
This is my new pet "Qi," She wouldn't stop swimming long enough for me to take a good picture of her. But then I did sit at the store and try to find the most active, female Betta fish available. She is so pretty. She is a deep blue color with a gorgeous fin. I've never had a pet fish before, and it's actually been a lot more fun than I thought. Plus the care for her is low maintenance. I think that besides having a great pet, this may be a great way to get my Qi flowing more :-)
Day 70 - June 4, 2008
Emotions!!!
I have been realizing more and more how much I am an emotional eater. I tend to eat when my body is in pain. It's my way of dealing with the pain. I don't think it really does anything, except increase my food bill and give me something else to think about besides that I am in pain. I had purchased a deck of "emotional face"cards at the Substance Abuse Conference I attended last September. I decided one way that may help me overcome being an emotional eater is to make refrigerator magnets. I made a copy of the cards and placed magnets on the back of each one. This way it reminds me to stop and identify the emotion I am currently experiencing before I just begin to eat. It's amazing how it has really helped me, plus increased my emotional vocabulary. - the picture only shows a few of the cards I have. I think I may need to get a bigger refrigerator to hold all my magnets :-)
I have been realizing more and more how much I am an emotional eater. I tend to eat when my body is in pain. It's my way of dealing with the pain. I don't think it really does anything, except increase my food bill and give me something else to think about besides that I am in pain. I had purchased a deck of "emotional face"cards at the Substance Abuse Conference I attended last September. I decided one way that may help me overcome being an emotional eater is to make refrigerator magnets. I made a copy of the cards and placed magnets on the back of each one. This way it reminds me to stop and identify the emotion I am currently experiencing before I just begin to eat. It's amazing how it has really helped me, plus increased my emotional vocabulary. - the picture only shows a few of the cards I have. I think I may need to get a bigger refrigerator to hold all my magnets :-)
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Day 69 - June 3, 2008
On you mark.... Get set....
Ok, I have been talking about this for about a year now, but that is really all it's been... just talk. Last week I decided that I have done enough talking and need to put some action into it. So I came to the conclusion that I am going to run the 5k on July 4th. Today I actually solidified this thought by registering online for the race. Now there is really no turning back!
Ok, I have been talking about this for about a year now, but that is really all it's been... just talk. Last week I decided that I have done enough talking and need to put some action into it. So I came to the conclusion that I am going to run the 5k on July 4th. Today I actually solidified this thought by registering online for the race. Now there is really no turning back!
Monday, June 2, 2008
Day 68 - June 2, 2008
FHE (a.k.a. Fun Hour Evening)
When I first moved to Utah, my Single's Ward did not have FHE on Monday nights. This made me sad at first, but then I began to get use to not really having it. They started it up at the beginning of this year as more people were moving into the ward that did not live at home. But at this time I also began to give harp lessons, and one of my student's could only meet on Monday nights. So I wasn't able to attend yet again. As summer has just begun for my harp student, we were able to change the time and day of the harp lesson. Which now left me with no excuse to not go to FHE. So tonight, with my adventurous cousin, I went to FHE for the first time. Unfortunately I was only able to stay for a short time as the person I drove with needed to leave early. But the part I did attend was fun, and this may be a nice thing to continue to do.
When I first moved to Utah, my Single's Ward did not have FHE on Monday nights. This made me sad at first, but then I began to get use to not really having it. They started it up at the beginning of this year as more people were moving into the ward that did not live at home. But at this time I also began to give harp lessons, and one of my student's could only meet on Monday nights. So I wasn't able to attend yet again. As summer has just begun for my harp student, we were able to change the time and day of the harp lesson. Which now left me with no excuse to not go to FHE. So tonight, with my adventurous cousin, I went to FHE for the first time. Unfortunately I was only able to stay for a short time as the person I drove with needed to leave early. But the part I did attend was fun, and this may be a nice thing to continue to do.
Sunday, June 1, 2008
Day 67 - June 1, 2008
The New Spice Cake
When I am around my friend, I tend to get and eat things I don't generally eat or get. One thing we got was a gluten free spice cake mix. We made half of it one morning, and it was really good.
While we ate it I was wondering how it would taste with pumpkin added to it. Today I decided to actually find out. I made the other half and added some canned pumpkin to it. It was good, but I also realized that I added too much pumpkin to it. Next time, I'll add less. But the pumpkin made it more moist. I also think this would taste good with mashed bananas in it as well. I cooked it in one of my small doughnut pans that I have yet to use. Why cook it in a rectangle pan. I also sprinkled it with this all natural cocoa powder mixed with fructose. It was really good, despite not really wanting to cook all the way through.
When I am around my friend, I tend to get and eat things I don't generally eat or get. One thing we got was a gluten free spice cake mix. We made half of it one morning, and it was really good.
While we ate it I was wondering how it would taste with pumpkin added to it. Today I decided to actually find out. I made the other half and added some canned pumpkin to it. It was good, but I also realized that I added too much pumpkin to it. Next time, I'll add less. But the pumpkin made it more moist. I also think this would taste good with mashed bananas in it as well. I cooked it in one of my small doughnut pans that I have yet to use. Why cook it in a rectangle pan. I also sprinkled it with this all natural cocoa powder mixed with fructose. It was really good, despite not really wanting to cook all the way through.
Day 66 - May 31, 2008
Herbal Mint Lotion
I went to Wild Oats, (aka Whole Foods) and just walked around looking at everything. I saw there body products that are artificially free, no parabens and no artificial fragrance. I've seen these before, but have always wondered if they truly could work as well as the Jergens and other brands I buy. I was surprised at how the Wild Oats store was so cheap. I decided that the cost of $2.50 for a 16 oz bottle would be ok to try this out. Plus it is supposed to be good for my skin. I tried it out, and it feels like regularly lotion. I actually really like the smell as well. It is really soothing. I may be a covert to the more natural skin care products as well. (If the price is right)
Day 65 - May 30, 2008
Recording Studio
Last Sunday, I helped my friend with some of the harp parts of his songs. Today we turned my apartment into a recording studio. He was a lucky boy, as this was the first day my finger was sealed well enough to be able to play the harp without it being taped up. The sound just was not the same with the finger taped up. We spent basically the entire day recording several songs. It was fun though. We needed a small room to record the harp in for acoustic reasons. He decided that my bedroom would work well for this. He brought his recording microphone, but no stand. We discovered that my vacuum worked well for this. So once again, when the CD is released, and you're listening to the songs, you will be able to say "I know that harpist, and she sounds really good!" (thanks due to someone's creative editing techniques)
Last Sunday, I helped my friend with some of the harp parts of his songs. Today we turned my apartment into a recording studio. He was a lucky boy, as this was the first day my finger was sealed well enough to be able to play the harp without it being taped up. The sound just was not the same with the finger taped up. We spent basically the entire day recording several songs. It was fun though. We needed a small room to record the harp in for acoustic reasons. He decided that my bedroom would work well for this. He brought his recording microphone, but no stand. We discovered that my vacuum worked well for this. So once again, when the CD is released, and you're listening to the songs, you will be able to say "I know that harpist, and she sounds really good!" (thanks due to someone's creative editing techniques)
Day 64 - May 29, 2008
Frozen Vitamins
That night though I realized that, yes the vitamins did make me sick as I felt sick that night. I had heard that if you freeze your vitamins it helps with digestion. So in the freezer they went that morning. It did help a bit that night. I think I will also take them before I go to bed so I can just sleep it off.
That night though I realized that, yes the vitamins did make me sick as I felt sick that night. I had heard that if you freeze your vitamins it helps with digestion. So in the freezer they went that morning. It did help a bit that night. I think I will also take them before I go to bed so I can just sleep it off.
Day 63 - May 28, 2008
Vitamins
For the past several weeks I have been dealing with headaches again and just not feeling the best during the day. I attributed it to my Crohn's disease, as basically that is what it felt like. As I was talking to my friend, I had shown him all the vitamins and supplements I was currently taking in mornings. I had noticed that I tended to be fine in the mornings, and then get sick after I eat breakfast and have to endure it for the rest of the day. This is one reason why I thought it was Crohn's because it happened around food. But I was beginning to think that it may be something I'm taking as I didn't to take them Sunday and realized I felt great all day. As he looked at the Vitamins and supplements he noticed that I may be getting too much of something, or that two of them are interacting together. Basically I was de-toxifying my liver too much in the mornings and throughout the day. He suggested that I take my vitamin at night and the other ones during the day. I tried this out, and was amazed at how good I felt throughout the day. I never would have thought that Vitamin's could have made me that sick.
For the past several weeks I have been dealing with headaches again and just not feeling the best during the day. I attributed it to my Crohn's disease, as basically that is what it felt like. As I was talking to my friend, I had shown him all the vitamins and supplements I was currently taking in mornings. I had noticed that I tended to be fine in the mornings, and then get sick after I eat breakfast and have to endure it for the rest of the day. This is one reason why I thought it was Crohn's because it happened around food. But I was beginning to think that it may be something I'm taking as I didn't to take them Sunday and realized I felt great all day. As he looked at the Vitamins and supplements he noticed that I may be getting too much of something, or that two of them are interacting together. Basically I was de-toxifying my liver too much in the mornings and throughout the day. He suggested that I take my vitamin at night and the other ones during the day. I tried this out, and was amazed at how good I felt throughout the day. I never would have thought that Vitamin's could have made me that sick.
Day 62 - May 27, 2008
Turmeric
My friend was telling me on Monday about the herb Turmeric. I decided from what he told me that maybe this is something I should try out. Turmeric is an anti - inflammatory Chinese herb. I have been noticing lately that I am still dealing with inflammation with my Crohn's and other things. I tried it out for the first time today. I don't know if it was the mentality that this was supposed to help, but I noticed that I felt better that afternoon than I had in the past. I took it at lunch, as it said to take it with your biggest meal. I looked online regarding it during my lunch time, and am surprised with all the benefits it can bring. check it out!
My friend was telling me on Monday about the herb Turmeric. I decided from what he told me that maybe this is something I should try out. Turmeric is an anti - inflammatory Chinese herb. I have been noticing lately that I am still dealing with inflammation with my Crohn's and other things. I tried it out for the first time today. I don't know if it was the mentality that this was supposed to help, but I noticed that I felt better that afternoon than I had in the past. I took it at lunch, as it said to take it with your biggest meal. I looked online regarding it during my lunch time, and am surprised with all the benefits it can bring. check it out!
Day 61 - May 26, 2008
Memorial Day Celebration
In the past, I don't ever remember really celebrating Memorial Day the way that it was intended. To me, Memorial Day, meant to clean out the garage. But with going with my Grandpa that Saturday to honor those family members who fought in several wars, and then today, I went with my friends to a city celebration of Memorial Day. It really made me think about the many sacrifices people have made for me.
That night, my friend and I made dinner for his sister and her family. I think we called it "Thireenmexise." It was a combination of Thia, Greek, Mexican and Chinese. We cooked lamb steaks, combined it with cooked vegetables that included mushrooms, and added a curry sauce with it. This was all placed on top of rice noodles. Served on the side was chips and salsa. For dessert we had fortune cookies.
In the past, I don't ever remember really celebrating Memorial Day the way that it was intended. To me, Memorial Day, meant to clean out the garage. But with going with my Grandpa that Saturday to honor those family members who fought in several wars, and then today, I went with my friends to a city celebration of Memorial Day. It really made me think about the many sacrifices people have made for me.
That night, my friend and I made dinner for his sister and her family. I think we called it "Thireenmexise." It was a combination of Thia, Greek, Mexican and Chinese. We cooked lamb steaks, combined it with cooked vegetables that included mushrooms, and added a curry sauce with it. This was all placed on top of rice noodles. Served on the side was chips and salsa. For dessert we had fortune cookies.
Day 60 - May 25, 2008
Harp Songwriting
My friend was in town and is currently working on a CD with his family. He is in the editing and mixing stage process. He has added harp as part of some of the instruments for several songs. He asked for some assistance in making some of the harp songs more "harpish." It was an interesting process as I helped him with the piece. I was looking at the piece on his laptop, and he didn't have it in the manuscript mode, but in this other mode (I don't know what it's called) but you looked at the notes through colored boxes that show the duration of the note and then it is on a sideways piano. Hard to explain, awkward at first to figure out exactly what was going on. But it turned out pretty well. You will have to hear it whenever the CD is released.
My friend was in town and is currently working on a CD with his family. He is in the editing and mixing stage process. He has added harp as part of some of the instruments for several songs. He asked for some assistance in making some of the harp songs more "harpish." It was an interesting process as I helped him with the piece. I was looking at the piece on his laptop, and he didn't have it in the manuscript mode, but in this other mode (I don't know what it's called) but you looked at the notes through colored boxes that show the duration of the note and then it is on a sideways piano. Hard to explain, awkward at first to figure out exactly what was going on. But it turned out pretty well. You will have to hear it whenever the CD is released.
Day 59 - May 24, 2008
It's been awhile since I've been able to get to my computer to blog about my latest adventures. I am now realizing the importance of writing things down, as I can't remember what new thing I did during this week, although I know I did something new each day. So I will just start at where I can remember what new thing I did.
Memorial Day Flowers
My grandpa invited me to travel with him to Ogden, Utah to place flowers on the graves of my great uncles, aunts, and great grandparents. I also enjoy spending time with my grandpa and hear stories that teach me and help me understand our family. We went to several different cemeteries. There were a lot of the graves that I had never been to before.
Before we left my grandpa showed me his garden and all the gorgeous flowers that are now in full bloom.
Memorial Day Flowers
My grandpa invited me to travel with him to Ogden, Utah to place flowers on the graves of my great uncles, aunts, and great grandparents. I also enjoy spending time with my grandpa and hear stories that teach me and help me understand our family. We went to several different cemeteries. There were a lot of the graves that I had never been to before.
Before we left my grandpa showed me his garden and all the gorgeous flowers that are now in full bloom.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)