Friday, April 03, 2009
Thursday, March 05, 2009
There's No Place Like Home
I could go on forever. I can't remember a time in my life where I've been happier, been more thankful or felt so blessed. Absolutely - 100% - without a shadow of doubt - the best decision I ever made. Many of you reading this were praying for me. I am a living proof that those prayers were heard and answered! I felt it! Thank you!
On Thursday, my household goods arrived, and as the movers unloaded and unpacked each and every box, I thought, "This is my life...it's beginning."
On Thursday, my household goods arrived, and as the movers unloaded and unpacked each and every box, I thought, "This is my life...it's beginning."
It's the backyard with the giant palm trees.
It's the 100% faith from my new boss, the Mission Support Commander, who (yesterday) gave me 'carte blanche to get the lodge where it needs to be.'
It's the curbside pickup of anything and everything I need to get rid of.
It's the curbside pickup of anything and everything I need to get rid of.
It's parents who help you with your yard work - and love it because they totally dig you being so close.
It's my new bike (well, 'new' to me! Thanks, Mom! I love your hand-me-downs!).
It's being able to get Sebby off to a dinner with a client - and help Kayla with her math homework.
It's 3 turns and 6 miles, door-to-door, to my office.
It's BJ's Wholesale, who kicks Costco's bum and has 3-for-$3 Tazo Chai Tea mix. Jackpot.
It's finding that my Credit Union has a shared branch. 1.1 miles from my house and 3 miles from my office.
It's the weather. Oh, the sweet sweet Florida Sunshine that I adore and have longed for for the last 15 years.
It's your best friend since the womb, buying a one-way ticket to come and decorate...who'll stay until the house is 'your very own'.
It's the car wash kiosks in the corner of EVERY (and yes, I mean every) strip mall. $15, inside and out.
It's the Homestead Farmer's Market in the Redlands. Where you can get a pony ride, buy a bunny rabbit, eat a taco, buy a washing machine or designer knockoff jeans, get your car washed, load up on pounds of the freshest fruits and vegetables - all in one location.
It's beginning your life. For the very first time.
It's. HOME.
I send all my thanks to all of you - and to the Lord. It's all because of His plan! What a blessing!
Now - COME VISIT!!
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
The Best Laid Plans....
I think there's a country song that goes, "...if you want to hear God laugh, just tell Him your plan."
All is well and moving along swimmingly with my relocation to Florida. Home inspection went well, and I am set to close on my house on the 17th of February. WOOT WOOT!
But.
The Air Force Services Career Program Office - a/k/a the 'Drivers of the Toma Train' have just informed me that my orders are delayed (for the non-military folk - orders are what do EVERYTHING; schedule the movers, allow me to travel on the government's dime, etc..) by 2 weeks. THEREFORE, I won't depart Monterey until 22 February, putting me into Florida on/around the 28th or 1st of Marchish.
And now...a quick liturgy about how God turned my day around - and how He CREATED the word 'irony'....
At a meeting this morning, I told one of my co-workers (shot out, Tamesha!), "You know, I have a real peace about moving; all is well with the house, the new boss/staff, etc.. However, the only area I am REALLY stressing about is the receipt of my orders. I keep calling and stressing and wondering, because I need to get my movers scheduled, I need to get out of my house, I need...blah blah blah....But, it's funny - that's the ONE area I have not given to God, I haven't really prayed about it. Coincidence? I think not."
One hour later - my phone rang.
It was the AFSCPO with the news that my orders were being proceed, and they apologized; the orders were delayed and would be processed within the week (apparently, the gal that cuts the orders had a death in her family). That being said, I had to wait one additional pay period (2 weeks) to depart Monterey. You see, I can't be driving cross country on the Army's time clock, it must be the Air Force's.
Anyway - my point?
Do I want a 2 week delay? No
Do I want to pay more rent in my house? No
But this isn't about my schedule or my needs.
The minute I committed it and gave it away - the answer came. Bottom line? We're not in control. None of us are. And for that, I'm thankful. Somebody bigger than me, smarter than me, and stronger than me...has got my back.
My dad just said, "Toma - He's never in a hurry, but He's ALWAYS on time."
I'll see you all in Florida at the end of February/beginning of March. Thank you for your continued support Stay tuned!
And - if you haven't seen my house - the info is here.
Toma's Favorite Song Today: "Born to Run" by Bruce Springsteen (I'm excited for the Super Bowl performance by The Boss!)
All is well and moving along swimmingly with my relocation to Florida. Home inspection went well, and I am set to close on my house on the 17th of February. WOOT WOOT!
But.
The Air Force Services Career Program Office - a/k/a the 'Drivers of the Toma Train' have just informed me that my orders are delayed (for the non-military folk - orders are what do EVERYTHING; schedule the movers, allow me to travel on the government's dime, etc..) by 2 weeks. THEREFORE, I won't depart Monterey until 22 February, putting me into Florida on/around the 28th or 1st of Marchish.
And now...a quick liturgy about how God turned my day around - and how He CREATED the word 'irony'....
At a meeting this morning, I told one of my co-workers (shot out, Tamesha!), "You know, I have a real peace about moving; all is well with the house, the new boss/staff, etc.. However, the only area I am REALLY stressing about is the receipt of my orders. I keep calling and stressing and wondering, because I need to get my movers scheduled, I need to get out of my house, I need...blah blah blah....But, it's funny - that's the ONE area I have not given to God, I haven't really prayed about it. Coincidence? I think not."
One hour later - my phone rang.
It was the AFSCPO with the news that my orders were being proceed, and they apologized; the orders were delayed and would be processed within the week (apparently, the gal that cuts the orders had a death in her family). That being said, I had to wait one additional pay period (2 weeks) to depart Monterey. You see, I can't be driving cross country on the Army's time clock, it must be the Air Force's.
Anyway - my point?
Do I want a 2 week delay? No
Do I want to pay more rent in my house? No
But this isn't about my schedule or my needs.
The minute I committed it and gave it away - the answer came. Bottom line? We're not in control. None of us are. And for that, I'm thankful. Somebody bigger than me, smarter than me, and stronger than me...has got my back.
My dad just said, "Toma - He's never in a hurry, but He's ALWAYS on time."
I'll see you all in Florida at the end of February/beginning of March. Thank you for your continued support Stay tuned!
And - if you haven't seen my house - the info is here.
Toma's Favorite Song Today: "Born to Run" by Bruce Springsteen (I'm excited for the Super Bowl performance by The Boss!)
Tuesday, January 06, 2009
Fun in the Sun
It is with profound happiness I announce I am returning home....TO FLORIDA!!! It's a bittersweet end to a fantastic 4 years in Monterey; I cannot think of a more wonderful place where I've grown and learned so much. It has been a pure privilege to be part of the family at the Presidio of Monterey.
I have accepted a position as Lodging Manager at Homestead Air Reserve Base, Homestead, FL. Yes, you heard me. AIR FORCE!!! After 14 years of GREEN, I'm going BLUE (that's for you Ruel Morgan and Chris MacLean!!)! Homestead Air Reserve Base (formerly Homestead Air Force base - that was destroyed by Hurricane Andrew in August 1992) was reopened in March 1994 as a reserve base, home to the 482d Fighter Wing. This new opportunity was 100% God-sent. Since my brother, Sebastian, and my niece, Kayla, moved back to Florida in the spring of last year, I have been in prayer about opportunities on the East coast, so I can continue to be part of her life and upbringing. Well, I asked, and He delivered! I'll be 45 minutes south of Sebby and Kayla - 90 minutes south of Mom and Simmer...and, not to mention a short direct flight from Fort Lauderdale to Greenville, SC to be near Daddy, Kath, Mimi & the entire Rusk side.
Oh, and my family and friends in Orlando!
Oh! And 60 minutes from my favorite sunset spot in Islamorada...
This was not a difficult decision.
I just received orders and relocation information. My estimated 'wheels up' date is 9 February. My good friend from OHS, Tiffany Welch (Griffith), will be flying out here to make the cross-country drive with Chester and I in the Jeep. Please be in prayer for me as I plan to purchase my very first home, upon arrival in Homestead. What great timing, huh? Ahhh....back to a no-state-tax State!!! Yahoo!
Although I can't provide you an updated mailing address just now, I will follow up with another email, once I'm settled. For now, please contact me at this email address tantetoma@mac.com or my cell phone 831.402.5574. That number is a BlackBerry, so I'll get your email, instantly. Please discard any other email addresses or phone numbers you have for me. If you have tantetoma@hotmail.com or 831.901.6973...TRASH 'EM!!!
If your travel plans bring you to Florida, I'm the last stop before the Florida Keys! There will always be a home for you and yours....and an arm's reach away from a stellar sunset on the water!
Love,
Toma
xoxoxo
Toma's Favorite Song Today: Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes by Jimmy Buffett
I have accepted a position as Lodging Manager at Homestead Air Reserve Base, Homestead, FL. Yes, you heard me. AIR FORCE!!! After 14 years of GREEN, I'm going BLUE (that's for you Ruel Morgan and Chris MacLean!!)! Homestead Air Reserve Base (formerly Homestead Air Force base - that was destroyed by Hurricane Andrew in August 1992) was reopened in March 1994 as a reserve base, home to the 482d Fighter Wing. This new opportunity was 100% God-sent. Since my brother, Sebastian, and my niece, Kayla, moved back to Florida in the spring of last year, I have been in prayer about opportunities on the East coast, so I can continue to be part of her life and upbringing. Well, I asked, and He delivered! I'll be 45 minutes south of Sebby and Kayla - 90 minutes south of Mom and Simmer...and, not to mention a short direct flight from Fort Lauderdale to Greenville, SC to be near Daddy, Kath, Mimi & the entire Rusk side.
Oh, and my family and friends in Orlando!
Oh! And 60 minutes from my favorite sunset spot in Islamorada...
This was not a difficult decision.
I just received orders and relocation information. My estimated 'wheels up' date is 9 February. My good friend from OHS, Tiffany Welch (Griffith), will be flying out here to make the cross-country drive with Chester and I in the Jeep. Please be in prayer for me as I plan to purchase my very first home, upon arrival in Homestead. What great timing, huh? Ahhh....back to a no-state-tax State!!! Yahoo!
Although I can't provide you an updated mailing address just now, I will follow up with another email, once I'm settled. For now, please contact me at this email address tantetoma@mac.com or my cell phone 831.402.5574. That number is a BlackBerry, so I'll get your email, instantly. Please discard any other email addresses or phone numbers you have for me. If you have tantetoma@hotmail.com or 831.901.6973...TRASH 'EM!!!
If your travel plans bring you to Florida, I'm the last stop before the Florida Keys! There will always be a home for you and yours....and an arm's reach away from a stellar sunset on the water!
Love,
Toma
xoxoxo
Toma's Favorite Song Today: Changes in Latitudes, Changes in Attitudes by Jimmy Buffett
Sunday, November 30, 2008
16 Things...nope....25 Things
It was 16 Things back in November...now it's 25. After going back and reading, I didn't follow directions, the first time. It was '16 Things' and I gave you 18.
Therefore, I am not the underachiever I thought I was.
You people better not add 8 more.
1. I know Jesus Christ as my personal Savior and am not afraid of death. I'm only here for a brief rest stop. I know exactly where I'm going and look forward to the day I'll get there.
2. I do not like broccoli, asparagus or brussels sprouts. And I was a vegetarian for 3 years. Someone please alert the irony police.
3. Stealing an idea from Tara - I think the lyrics "Something 'bout the way the hair falls in your face - I like the shape you take when crawlin' towards the pillowcase - You tell me where to go and - Though I might leave to find it - I'll never let your head hit the bed - Without my hand behind it" are among the best written. Ever.
4. I do not like to shop, come to Pampered Chef/PartyLite/Tastefully Simple parties or any of the activities of the like. Although I may enjoy girly THINGS and my girlFRIENDS I do not enjoy girly ACTIVITIES. Bridal and baby showers are, in a word, excruciating. This does not mean I'm not thrilled about your impending nuptials/new life. It just means I'd rather have a root canal then see how many toilet paper squares it will take to fit around your belly. But please make sure you let me know where you're registered. What I lack in presence, I make up for in PRESENTS.
5. I send handwritten thank-you notes. It is a dying art.
6. I adore my dog; he is my best friend and constant companion. In the words of Greg Behrendt, "Pets are God's way of saying 'Don't lower the bar just because you're single'."
7. I can't stand negativity, complaining or whining. If you don't like your circumstances, change them. The majority of your life is CHOICE.
8. I grind my teeth at night - and have to wear a retainer. It's very sexy.
9. I always have the perfect song as background music.
10. I think you should wake up every morning and be PASSIONATE about what you do. If you're not, make a change. See *7.
11. Bad company corrupts good character. And character counts.
12. I have a degree in Music Education and, up until the day I graduated from college, was sure I was going to teach high school chorus. Then, I walked into the Shades of Green so I could pay my bills 'in the meantime'. That was almost 15 years ago and I am still a civilian working for the Army - and I adore it.
13. I have an incredible sense of pride in my country and those who serve to protect it - and I believe in small government and no socialism. If you want it, WORK FOR IT.
14. I was in the circus in Peru, Indiana, when I was a kid.
15. I cannot cross my eyes.
16. I am left-handed.
17. I was a parade performer for 11 years at Walt Disney World.
18. I think I posses a large volume of common sense. Which sometimes pushes me into thinking the rest of the world are imbeciles. I'm working on it.
19. My niece, Kayla, is the reason I get up in the morning.
20. My parents are divorced, and both remarried to fantastic people. I now have four parents and I adore each of them for how they've shaped me as a woman.
21. I am a horrible driver (excited, Goose?).
22. I type insanely fast. And loud.
23. I prefer Facebook, IMing and emailing to texting and calling...and (heaven forbid) writing LETTERS (thank-you notes don't count).
I know - that makes me a bad friend.
24. There is no one on the planet that can make me laugh harder than my baby brother, Sebastian.
25. I know all the words to almost every Jimmy Buffett song.
Toma's Favorite Song Today: "Let There Be Peace On Earth" by the Liberty Voices
(I always pick a favorite Christmas album every year. This year, it's this one.)
***UPDATE*** now it's almost January, and I'm digging "Bubbles" by Colbie Caillat.
Therefore, I am not the underachiever I thought I was.
You people better not add 8 more.
1. I know Jesus Christ as my personal Savior and am not afraid of death. I'm only here for a brief rest stop. I know exactly where I'm going and look forward to the day I'll get there.
2. I do not like broccoli, asparagus or brussels sprouts. And I was a vegetarian for 3 years. Someone please alert the irony police.
3. Stealing an idea from Tara - I think the lyrics "Something 'bout the way the hair falls in your face - I like the shape you take when crawlin' towards the pillowcase - You tell me where to go and - Though I might leave to find it - I'll never let your head hit the bed - Without my hand behind it" are among the best written. Ever.
4. I do not like to shop, come to Pampered Chef/PartyLite/Tastefully Simple parties or any of the activities of the like. Although I may enjoy girly THINGS and my girlFRIENDS I do not enjoy girly ACTIVITIES. Bridal and baby showers are, in a word, excruciating. This does not mean I'm not thrilled about your impending nuptials/new life. It just means I'd rather have a root canal then see how many toilet paper squares it will take to fit around your belly. But please make sure you let me know where you're registered. What I lack in presence, I make up for in PRESENTS.
5. I send handwritten thank-you notes. It is a dying art.
6. I adore my dog; he is my best friend and constant companion. In the words of Greg Behrendt, "Pets are God's way of saying 'Don't lower the bar just because you're single'."
7. I can't stand negativity, complaining or whining. If you don't like your circumstances, change them. The majority of your life is CHOICE.
8. I grind my teeth at night - and have to wear a retainer. It's very sexy.
9. I always have the perfect song as background music.
10. I think you should wake up every morning and be PASSIONATE about what you do. If you're not, make a change. See *7.
11. Bad company corrupts good character. And character counts.
12. I have a degree in Music Education and, up until the day I graduated from college, was sure I was going to teach high school chorus. Then, I walked into the Shades of Green so I could pay my bills 'in the meantime'. That was almost 15 years ago and I am still a civilian working for the Army - and I adore it.
13. I have an incredible sense of pride in my country and those who serve to protect it - and I believe in small government and no socialism. If you want it, WORK FOR IT.
14. I was in the circus in Peru, Indiana, when I was a kid.
15. I cannot cross my eyes.
16. I am left-handed.
17. I was a parade performer for 11 years at Walt Disney World.
18. I think I posses a large volume of common sense. Which sometimes pushes me into thinking the rest of the world are imbeciles. I'm working on it.
19. My niece, Kayla, is the reason I get up in the morning.
20. My parents are divorced, and both remarried to fantastic people. I now have four parents and I adore each of them for how they've shaped me as a woman.
21. I am a horrible driver (excited, Goose?).
22. I type insanely fast. And loud.
23. I prefer Facebook, IMing and emailing to texting and calling...and (heaven forbid) writing LETTERS (thank-you notes don't count).
I know - that makes me a bad friend.
24. There is no one on the planet that can make me laugh harder than my baby brother, Sebastian.
25. I know all the words to almost every Jimmy Buffett song.
Toma's Favorite Song Today: "Let There Be Peace On Earth" by the Liberty Voices
(I always pick a favorite Christmas album every year. This year, it's this one.)
***UPDATE*** now it's almost January, and I'm digging "Bubbles" by Colbie Caillat.
Saturday, November 01, 2008
What's In It for ME?
Thought I'd take a hot minute out and highlight this past Wednesday for you. I left many, many commentaries on my Facebook status on Wednesday. But thought it important to copy and paste here...
I am currently interviewing for a front desk clerk at the hotel. In today's job market, I received 69 applications for one (1) position. Needless to stay, it's quite competitive, as we offer full time, full benefits.
For a little comic relief, here's a synopsis of those interviews.
Out of 19 on my list with scheduled interviews, four (4) showed up.
Four!!!
Greatest Hits:
"You're only paying $10 an hour? I get that right now - ON UNEMPLOYMENT!"
(Toma thinking - "Yeah...well..lemme know how that works out for ya.")
"I need to know, up front - when is my first raise, and how much?"
(Your first raise will be your behind coming out of your chair...on your way to the door.)
"What are 4 10-hour days? What do you mean? Will I get overtime since it's over 8 hours? I have to have Saturdays off."
(Toma thinking - "Yeah...well..I have to be 120 pounds...BUT I'M NOT.")
"I normally get $16 an hour for front desk clerk work - let me do the math and see if your health, life insurance, 401k and retirement plan really calculate out as beneficial to me."
(Toma, again, thinking - "Yeah...well..lemme know how that works out for ya.")
and lastly...nervous twitchy cougar lady who smelled like an ashtray, was made up as if she were doing Kabuki theater, said, "You know, I AM a people person."
Happy to report, though, I've selected Selena (name changed to protect the innocent). A recent college graduate, personality plus, hotel front desk experience and...
a Mac owner.
Yes. This has what it's come to. I can judge you by your choice of home computers.
All kidding aside...what's WRONG with people? I mean, sure...there's a significant number of people in my orbit that just don't "get it". But after this round of interviews, I actually stopped and thought to myself, "Ohmigosh. I'm an elitist. I am actually so much smarter than everyone else."
Of course I'm not.
But - this...this...sense of entitlement. I have never, EVER seen anything like it in my life. Did my parents' generation say this about us? I think not. I've worked since the day I turned 16. Heck, when I was 12, my Mom had me stocking tacky souvenirs for cash, under the table! It's one thing to feel you're 'entitled' to something if you work hard and if you've earned it. But, this group? THIS GROUP made the Wal-Mart greeter look busy. And hey - not to knock Wally World, at all. But - come on.
I'll close this small rant today with one of my favorite Mark Twain quotes; "The world doesn't owe you anything; it was here first."
At least I can laugh at people who tell me they make more money on unemployment. I almost came back with "Really? Did you just listen to to the words that came out of your mouth?"
But I couldn't. Because - elitist that I am, I own real estate on the high road.
Enjoy the extra hour tonight,
Toma
xo
Toma's Favorite Song Today: "What a Wonderful World" by Louis Armstrong
I am currently interviewing for a front desk clerk at the hotel. In today's job market, I received 69 applications for one (1) position. Needless to stay, it's quite competitive, as we offer full time, full benefits.
For a little comic relief, here's a synopsis of those interviews.
Out of 19 on my list with scheduled interviews, four (4) showed up.
Four!!!
Greatest Hits:
"You're only paying $10 an hour? I get that right now - ON UNEMPLOYMENT!"
(Toma thinking - "Yeah...well..lemme know how that works out for ya.")
"I need to know, up front - when is my first raise, and how much?"
(Your first raise will be your behind coming out of your chair...on your way to the door.)
"What are 4 10-hour days? What do you mean? Will I get overtime since it's over 8 hours? I have to have Saturdays off."
(Toma thinking - "Yeah...well..I have to be 120 pounds...BUT I'M NOT.")
"I normally get $16 an hour for front desk clerk work - let me do the math and see if your health, life insurance, 401k and retirement plan really calculate out as beneficial to me."
(Toma, again, thinking - "Yeah...well..lemme know how that works out for ya.")
and lastly...nervous twitchy cougar lady who smelled like an ashtray, was made up as if she were doing Kabuki theater, said, "You know, I AM a people person."
Happy to report, though, I've selected Selena (name changed to protect the innocent). A recent college graduate, personality plus, hotel front desk experience and...
a Mac owner.
Yes. This has what it's come to. I can judge you by your choice of home computers.
All kidding aside...what's WRONG with people? I mean, sure...there's a significant number of people in my orbit that just don't "get it". But after this round of interviews, I actually stopped and thought to myself, "Ohmigosh. I'm an elitist. I am actually so much smarter than everyone else."
Of course I'm not.
But - this...this...sense of entitlement. I have never, EVER seen anything like it in my life. Did my parents' generation say this about us? I think not. I've worked since the day I turned 16. Heck, when I was 12, my Mom had me stocking tacky souvenirs for cash, under the table! It's one thing to feel you're 'entitled' to something if you work hard and if you've earned it. But, this group? THIS GROUP made the Wal-Mart greeter look busy. And hey - not to knock Wally World, at all. But - come on.
I'll close this small rant today with one of my favorite Mark Twain quotes; "The world doesn't owe you anything; it was here first."
At least I can laugh at people who tell me they make more money on unemployment. I almost came back with "Really? Did you just listen to to the words that came out of your mouth?"
But I couldn't. Because - elitist that I am, I own real estate on the high road.
Enjoy the extra hour tonight,
Toma
xo
Toma's Favorite Song Today: "What a Wonderful World" by Louis Armstrong
Tuesday, October 21, 2008
No Day But Today!
I can't even begin to relay just how beautiful Monterey is in October. I'm gathering you guessed that by now, due to my lack of blogging. I do love the blog - but love the weather more!!!
I have begun a new adventure; both professionally and personally. Professionally, I have taken on additional duties with the Morale, Welfare & Recreation Directorate here on the Presidio, as our fearless leader, Bob, has gone downrange for 6 months to support our troops that are deployed. Although honored and thankful for the opportunity, I am NOT enjoying the whole 'work getting in the way of my life' thing.
But that's not all.
Around the same time, I was inspired by my dear friend, Sharon Diane Cataldo Fenneran (shot out!). Through the beautiful invention we call the Internets, I watched Sharon shrink over 60 pounds. And she looks FANTASTIC.
A busy Mom of two, and a ROCK STAR wife, I said to myself..."If she can do it, I can do it!" So, I asked her, "How'd you do it?"
"I hired a personal trainer."
Although expensive and time consuming, I took the plunge. Thankfully, my trainer is contracted through the military, so her rates are cheap cheap cheap - and she is INCREDIBLE! Her name is Lisa B, and I'm considering moving in with her.
I kid.
So, with the temporary promotion and the trainer hired, I embarked on "Toma's 10 Week Challenge". I started on the 29th of September and am on this journey through Thanksgiving. I mean, I know this is a LIFESTYLE change, my life will NEVER be the same - but, for now, my initial entry is 10 weeks.
3 weeks in and I'm down 11.5 pounds!! WOOT, WOOT!!
Yes, the exercise makes me feel better. Yes, the eating healthy is the right thing to do. Yes yes...YES!!!! I get it - you endorphin nazis! I'm just SOOOO not the exercise junkie. I have the cute clothes and the motivation and the habit down...I got it. I just...ugh...hate the gym - hate being there. It's boring and I'd much rather be at home, on my couch.
With cake.
You know what drives me? I mean, besides results? The sauna - afterward. I know it's sillly - but, whatever works, right? I love the sauna, 15 minutes of pure heat and sweat...ahhhh...it's a dream. Feels like I'm home in Florida!
Lisa's got me on a pretty tight leash. I work out with her on Tuesday nights - she kicks my butt! Then, the other 4 days a week, I do a minimum of 45 minutes of hard cardio, with my heart rate between 122-144. I have been averaging about 130, and it sure brings on the sweat and the heavy breathing!
So, just like work is getting in the way of my life. Now, my working OUT is getting in the way of my lying around. My DVR is so full, that I can't keep up with all my shows!
I know. My problems.
I just can't bring myself to drop money on a treadmill for my living room when I know it will only function as a clothes hanger.
To the gym we go.
I also might add that my cousin, Phillip, and his beautiful wife, Amy, are contestants on the current season of 'The Biggest Loser'. I won't spoil you with the outcome, but let me just tell you...it was enough to get me up off the couch and get. Me. MOVING. I am so proud of them, and am wholeheartedly encouraged by their journey. That was it!!!
That was the day I said, "No day but today."
In other news (as if the temporary promotion and the new workout program weren't enough) I've taken on a second (really, THIRD, if you count my babysitting on weekends) job at a wonderful little Baptist church here in Monterey. It's funny, it's a job, and will certainly help with my vacation savings account, but I have found a church home.
It reminds me so much of First Baptist, Kissimmee, in the early days. Everyone in the sanctuary knows my name, everyone greets visitors with a warm smile and welcome...and (most of all), this church has a heart for the community, and serving it. It is a church where I can serve, worship and grow. In my 4 years in Monterey, I haven't 'really' found a church home. At the same time, many of you know, I interviewed with two other churches in the area for different music positions, but none worked out.
Now I know why. God was preparing me for Lighthouse Baptist (and vice versa).
You know what I like more than anything? Wednesday night. Church supper, then Bible study, then ensemble practice, which I lead.
Just like First Baptist Kissimmee!
Just like home.
I'm working on vacation plans for 2009 - this year, because of so much work travel, I really didn't do too much 'fun' traveling, save for a long weekend in Hawaii. With the help of babysitting and LBC, I'll take Kayla on a Spring Break adventure...somewhere sunny, and all-inclusive...maybe the Dominican Republic, because it's uber-cheap there. Then, next fall (around this time, next year), I'll return with my favorite girls to St. John and Jost van Dyke.
Work hard, play hard, baby!
Sharon, I know you're reading this. YOU are my muse! Thank you for your inspiration and encouragement. I love you!
Toma's Favorite Song Today: "No Day But Today" by the Cast of 'Rent'
I have begun a new adventure; both professionally and personally. Professionally, I have taken on additional duties with the Morale, Welfare & Recreation Directorate here on the Presidio, as our fearless leader, Bob, has gone downrange for 6 months to support our troops that are deployed. Although honored and thankful for the opportunity, I am NOT enjoying the whole 'work getting in the way of my life' thing.
But that's not all.
Around the same time, I was inspired by my dear friend, Sharon Diane Cataldo Fenneran (shot out!). Through the beautiful invention we call the Internets, I watched Sharon shrink over 60 pounds. And she looks FANTASTIC.
A busy Mom of two, and a ROCK STAR wife, I said to myself..."If she can do it, I can do it!" So, I asked her, "How'd you do it?"
"I hired a personal trainer."
Although expensive and time consuming, I took the plunge. Thankfully, my trainer is contracted through the military, so her rates are cheap cheap cheap - and she is INCREDIBLE! Her name is Lisa B, and I'm considering moving in with her.
I kid.
So, with the temporary promotion and the trainer hired, I embarked on "Toma's 10 Week Challenge". I started on the 29th of September and am on this journey through Thanksgiving. I mean, I know this is a LIFESTYLE change, my life will NEVER be the same - but, for now, my initial entry is 10 weeks.
3 weeks in and I'm down 11.5 pounds!! WOOT, WOOT!!
Yes, the exercise makes me feel better. Yes, the eating healthy is the right thing to do. Yes yes...YES!!!! I get it - you endorphin nazis! I'm just SOOOO not the exercise junkie. I have the cute clothes and the motivation and the habit down...I got it. I just...ugh...hate the gym - hate being there. It's boring and I'd much rather be at home, on my couch.
With cake.
You know what drives me? I mean, besides results? The sauna - afterward. I know it's sillly - but, whatever works, right? I love the sauna, 15 minutes of pure heat and sweat...ahhhh...it's a dream. Feels like I'm home in Florida!
Lisa's got me on a pretty tight leash. I work out with her on Tuesday nights - she kicks my butt! Then, the other 4 days a week, I do a minimum of 45 minutes of hard cardio, with my heart rate between 122-144. I have been averaging about 130, and it sure brings on the sweat and the heavy breathing!
So, just like work is getting in the way of my life. Now, my working OUT is getting in the way of my lying around. My DVR is so full, that I can't keep up with all my shows!
I know. My problems.
I just can't bring myself to drop money on a treadmill for my living room when I know it will only function as a clothes hanger.
To the gym we go.
I also might add that my cousin, Phillip, and his beautiful wife, Amy, are contestants on the current season of 'The Biggest Loser'. I won't spoil you with the outcome, but let me just tell you...it was enough to get me up off the couch and get. Me. MOVING. I am so proud of them, and am wholeheartedly encouraged by their journey. That was it!!!
That was the day I said, "No day but today."
In other news (as if the temporary promotion and the new workout program weren't enough) I've taken on a second (really, THIRD, if you count my babysitting on weekends) job at a wonderful little Baptist church here in Monterey. It's funny, it's a job, and will certainly help with my vacation savings account, but I have found a church home.It reminds me so much of First Baptist, Kissimmee, in the early days. Everyone in the sanctuary knows my name, everyone greets visitors with a warm smile and welcome...and (most of all), this church has a heart for the community, and serving it. It is a church where I can serve, worship and grow. In my 4 years in Monterey, I haven't 'really' found a church home. At the same time, many of you know, I interviewed with two other churches in the area for different music positions, but none worked out.
Now I know why. God was preparing me for Lighthouse Baptist (and vice versa).
You know what I like more than anything? Wednesday night. Church supper, then Bible study, then ensemble practice, which I lead.
Just like First Baptist Kissimmee!
Just like home.
I'm working on vacation plans for 2009 - this year, because of so much work travel, I really didn't do too much 'fun' traveling, save for a long weekend in Hawaii. With the help of babysitting and LBC, I'll take Kayla on a Spring Break adventure...somewhere sunny, and all-inclusive...maybe the Dominican Republic, because it's uber-cheap there. Then, next fall (around this time, next year), I'll return with my favorite girls to St. John and Jost van Dyke.
Work hard, play hard, baby!
Sharon, I know you're reading this. YOU are my muse! Thank you for your inspiration and encouragement. I love you!
Toma's Favorite Song Today: "No Day But Today" by the Cast of 'Rent'
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