Thought of the Day: Law of the Garbage Truck

Law of the Garbage  Truck

 

One day I hopped in a taxi and we took off for the airport.

We were driving in the right lane when suddenly a black car jumped out of a parking space right in   front of us.

My taxi driver slammed on his brakes, skidded, and     missed the other car by just inches! The driver of the other car whipped his head around and started yelling at us.

My taxi driver just smiled and waved at the guy. And I mean he was really friendly.

  So I asked, 'Why did you just do that? This guy almost ruined

your car and sent us to the hospital!'

  This is when my taxi driver taught me what I now call, 'The Law of the Garbage Truck.'

 

He explained that many people are like garbage trucks. They run around full of garbage, full of frustration, full of anger, and full of disappointment. As their garbage piles up, they need a place to dump it and sometimes they'll dump it on you. Don't take it personally.

 

Just smile, wave, wish them well, and move on. Don't take their garbage and spread it to other people at work, at home, or on the streets.

 

The bottom line is that successful people do not let garbage trucks take over their day.

Life's too short to wake up in the morning with regrets,

so ... Love the people  who treat you right and Pray for the ones who don't .

 

Life is ten percent what youmake it and ninety percent how you take it!

 

Have a garbage-free day!

 

Quote of the Day: Something I Truly Believe

"Formal education will make you a living; self-education will make you a fortune." — Jim Rohn

Land Rover LR4: Piquing My Interest...Your Thoughts?

So anyone who truly knows me, knows that I absolutely love Land Rover in general. Specifically I love their Discovery and LR3 models. I have had a toy replica of the Discovery since circa 2000 with the intent on purchasing one- one day. I had the chance to buy one in 2002, but conservatively chose to get a car...a 2003 Nissan Altima. Now don't get me wrong I love my Altima, recalls, issues, and all; I simply wish I had strongly considered and attempted to get the Discovery when I had the chance. I have not given up hope though.

As the years have progressed so has Land Rover. They discontinued the Discovery and reinvented it by delivering the LR3 (and the LR2 which is a smaller version...I don't like) which took me a moment or two but then...bam, I became enamored by its beauty, boldness, sleekness, and ability to still go off-roading. It seems that everywhere I turn there is a Discovery and LR3 around me, calling my name!

Now Land Rover decided to respond to the various consumer complaints concerning the plastic bumpers, overtaxed engine, confusing black buttons in the cabin, and the associated cost. The new LR4 has brought chills to my spine as I smile from ear to ear at the evolution that has taken place. Land Rover has turned the LR4 into something more comparable to its larger sibling, the Range Rover, but without the  exorbitantly high sticker price, and some issues that I have noticed over the years. 

The LR4 has a new 5.0-liter, 375-horsepower V8, which helps its weighty body overcome the laws of physics. Much like the Range Rover it has the sport grills on the front and side. They even improved the brakes, on-road handling and off-road Terrain Response system that offers five modes represented by pictographs in the center-console-mounted control knob — General Driving, Grass/Gravel/Snow, Sand, Mud and Ruts, and Rock Crawl — this system allows the driver to select the setting best suited to the driving conditions they face.

In treacherous low-speed downhill passes, Hill Descent Control takes over the braking duties (even in Reverse), making it possible for the LR4 to brake individual wheels as required, something a driver would have extreme difficulty doing. This bad boy even has an all-new touchscreen interface with a satellite radio and iPod interface.  

What is truly amazing on top of all of this is the price. Comparably equipped to the Audi Q7, Toyota Land Cruiser and Mercedes GL450, the LR4 costs $8,000 less than an Audi Q7 4.2, $15,000 less than a Toyota Land Cruiser and $18,000 less than a Mercedes-Benz GL450. Yes, you read that right! It even offers more usable passenger space than all of them. No luxury SUV short of a Cadillac Escalade ESV or Lincoln Navigator L provides more spacious seven-passenger seating. Now performance-wise it doesn't beat the Benz, and it hasn't been able to beat the Land Cruiser for off-road handling, etc...but I'm okay with that. I'm not too cool with the idea of purchasing another 91-octane vehicle, especially since the fuel economy is still relatively low (at 13 mpg) but when you see what the LR4 has to offer- it would be worth it in my opinion!

Be sure to check out a picture at Edmonds.com or Landrover.com, or visit a local Land Rover dealership (I've included a link to one below in my list of sources) to see and experience the LR4 for yourself. I want to drive it...feel the difference between the LR4 and its older, retired, Discovery model. With money being an object I'd have to settle for the Discovery or an older LR3...but if money weren't an object...I'd hop in a Black, White, or even a Purple (yes, they have a customized purple version) with no hesitation and drive, drive, drive it right into my garage...of course after a few hours of driving over curbs and stuff!

Here's all of the specs as found on Edmonds.com website for you to check out:

Model Year: 2010
Make: Land Rover
Model: LR4
Style: V8 4dr SUV 4WD (5.0L 8cyl 6A)
Base Price: $47,250
Price as Tested: $54,760

Options on Test Vehicle: HSE Plus Package With Seven-Seat Comfort Package ($5,910 -- includes rearview camera, front parking sensors, automatic headlights, automatic high beams, 50/50-split third-row seats, third-row curtain airbags, rear climate controls, hard-drive navigation system, Bluetooth, ambient interior lighting, HD Radio, satellite radio, heated front windshield, heated steering wheel, heated front and second-row seats, heated windshield washer jets); Heavy Duty Package ($750 -- includes active locking rear differential and full-size spare tire with alloy wheel)

Drive Type: Four-wheel drive
Transmission Type: Six-speed automatic
Transmission and Axle Ratio:  (x:1)I=4.17; II=2.34; III=1.52; IV=1.14; V=0.87; VI=0.69; R=3.4; Final=3.54; High=1.00; Low=2.93
Engine Type: V8
Displacement (cc / cu-in)4,999cc (305 cu-in)
Block/Head Material: Aluminum
Valve train: Double overhead camshaft
Compression Ratio: 11.5
Redline (rpm) 6,200
Horsepower (hp @ rpm) 375 @ 6,500
Torque (lb-ft @ rpm) 375 @ 3,500
Brake Type (front) Ventilated disc
Brake Type (rear) Ventilated disc
Steering System: Power steering
Steering Ratio: Variable
Suspension Type (front) Double wishbone
Suspension Type (rear) Double wishbone
Tire Size (front) 255/55R19V M+S
Tire Size (rear) 255/55R19 V M+S
Tire Brand: Continental
Tire Model: 4x4 Contact
Tire Type: All-terrain
Wheel Size: 19-by-8 inches front and rear
Wheel Material (front/rear)Alloy
Manufacturer Curb Weight (lb) 5,833
Curb Weight As Tested (lb) 5,751
Weight Distribution, F/R (%) 49.1/50.9
Recommended Fuel Premium unleaded (required)
Fuel Tank Capacity (gal) 22.8
EPA Fuel Economy (mpg) 12 city/17 highway
Edmunds Observed (mpg) 13.05



Copyright 2010. Natasha L. Foreman. Some Rights Reserved.


Sources:

Edmonds http://www.edmonds.com

Land Rover Buckhead http://www.landroverbuckhead.com/Specials_new.aspx#Special19

Day 14: This is Something Else

It is amazing what we can do when we put our mind to it. Never would I have believed it to be possible for me to fast 14 days...let alone be comfortable with continuing the fast a few or even several days longer.

Failure is not an option.

I'm grateful for this experience. It has been such a thrill! This weekend I will share more pictures of me working out, and my progress. Maybe you will share some of yours!

Until then...have a blessed evening!

Copyright 2010. Natasha L. Foreman. All Rights Reserved.

Curling, Crunching, and Sweating My Way Back...Check Out These Pictures!!

Take a journey with me as I curl and crunch my way back to NUMBER ONE!!!!!

Day 13: The Googly Eyes Speaks Volumes About My Progress

Just finished a great workout...second for the day. Earlier was cardio with plyometrics; tonight was arms baby! I definitely feel the burn. Low weights with high reps, and about four sets each exercise; I will make sure to stretch again in the shower. Today was pretty busy as I had plenty of errands to run. I made sure to bring along my fruit smoothie to sip on the first hour or so out, and then I had a banana a couple of hours later. By the time I made it home I was hungry, and a salad was calling my name!

For dinner I had the other serving of my butternut squash soup, and a black bean patty. I had yogurt for dessert, and when I got the munchies I nibbled on a few pieces of fruit (grapes, watermelon, and cantaloupe). The key to all of this is making sure I get plenty of water; staying hydrated and flushing out all the junk we don't want inside of us is very important. I make sure to keep plenty of water beside my bed to guzzle back throughout the night when I become thirsty, and first thing in the morning when I wake up and feel like I've been walking through the desert for several hours. 

It is extremely important that I remain focused and disciplined these next few days, because I know that the more I drive around and am visually seeing fast food restaurants like Popeyes Chicken, McDonalds, and the like, the more my mind triggers images of the great, yet fattening foods these establishments crank out by the minute. I haven't been tempted to visit any of them, but I also don't want the trigger to entice me to overeat when I return home. Even though I'm not having issues with overeating since I keep getting full faster on less food. Still there is no denying that I love food, and until I control the association my mind makes with food...I must stay focused on my fast...I have two to three more days on this phase, before I begin a slow transition of other foods back into my daily regime; so I want these days to count in every way.

It is very important that if you are fasting merely for spiritual reflection, connection, and awakening that you spend quality time in a peaceful environment, taking in all of your spiritual readings, music, etc. You should focus on light exercise, and take in yoga, walking, or jogging. If however you are fasting to lose weight, then you must also incorporate moderate exercise. You should consider three to four days per week for 30-45 minutes each workout. If you are fasting in hopes of cleansing your body for one to three days, make sure your focus is on drinking plenty of water, getting ample rest, and realizing that your body does not truly begin "fasting" until day 5...so days one to three are merely eliminating the food and junk you had in your body from the previous one to two days. It is not until day five and thereafter that you begin to get down deep...no pun intended. So don't expect major changes externally or internally in one to three days. 

I don't recommend two-a-day workouts, especially 7 days a week (like what I'm doing) unless you are accustomed to that level of intensity, and have been given the 'green light' by your doctor or other medical professional. Yes, I have experienced incredible results quickly, but that also has a great deal to do with my body's muscle memory, and ability to handle the daily workload. That is a big reason why my body is leaning out nicely, and everything is tightening up as it should...my body is remembering how it is supposed to be, feel, respond, and look (okay I'm exaggerating with the 'look' statement, but you get my drift). 

I know how I feel and look, and from the response I got in the mall and various stores I went to today...I can gather that other people liked what they saw also...especially a few men who kept coming by the Carol's Daughter store peeping in....the store clerk said, "girl you have some admirers checking you out hard!" I laughed and as I grabbed my bag and receipt I smiled and casually walked out of the store taking notice of the men. I'm accustomed to getting attention, but it feels especially great when you know how good you really look...head to toe...inside and out. When you feel good you radiate a positive glow that bounces off of everyone who comes into contact with you. That is how I felt today; how I have been feeling these past two weeks. I feel just like my nickname...Sunshine!

If you are a first-time faster, inexperienced with strict fasting, or have spent a great deal of your adult life yo-yo dieting, then I would say that fasting should be complemented at the MOST by moderate exercise four days per week. We'll have to discuss another time the difference between light, moderate, and heavy workouts. Until then, I hope that all of you have a wonderful evening! Thank you for all of your support and well wishes as I come into the stretch of this awesome fast. I will definitely post pictures soon.


Warmest wishes,

Natasha



Copyright 2010. Natasha L. Foreman. All Rights Reserved.

Day 12 This Butternut Squash Soup is Delish!

V8 has a great butternut squash soup in a carton. A serving (1 cup) is 80 calories; and there are roughly two servings per container. Each serving gives you a day's worth of recommended veggies! I had a serving of that plus a light salad for dinner.  Dessert? Ah some yummy yogurt. Earlier today I had a fruit smoothie before my intense 45 minute workout (a true butt kicker in every sense); then I snacked on grapes, and around 5pm... a banana. 

Yes, this evening I will be sweating, grunting, and grimacing through my second workout. Maybe I will share a picture. Speaking of pictures, maybe I should also share my before, mid, and after pictures so everyone can see how my body and "vibe" has transitioned. Even on my "rough" days, my face isn't showing signs of stress like it did two weeks ago. I will say that my body is naturally trying to relax by midnight. I have to force myself to stay awake beyond 1am. Oddly enough, I'm also more apt to get a full 8-9 hours of sleep, instead of my usual 3-5 hours. I will have to find a way to make necessary adjustments when my classes resume in a few weeks. 

I can't believe how much my life has changed in 12 days! What a difference taking time focusing on "self" can mean to your wellbeing...mind, body, and soul! 



Copyright 2010. Natasha L. Foreman. All Rights Reserved.    

Day 11...Still Going

I forgot to post yesterday...almost let today slip by because I was extremely busy working. Today was a great day; busy, hot, and seemingly long, but great. I went grocery shopping and picked up more fruit and veggies, yogurt, and a tasty salad mix (with lettuce, carrots, tomatoes, radishes, and bell peppers).

My two-a-day workouts have been going strong... once in the morning and once in the evening... even if it is late, like last night when I was up sweating and grunting at midnight!

Well I'm really tired...too tired to keep typing on here. Just wanted to share the latest, and let everyone know that I'm still doing great, hanging in there, and feeling incredible overall! I also want to remind you not to start this or any fast (or diet) without first consulting a medical professional! Please don't rely on my results as credibility for you to risk your health and wellbeing. Have an incredible day and be a blessing to others.

Natasha



Copyright 2010. Natasha L. Foreman. All Rights Reserved.

Saturday Lounging

Let me first start off by clarifying that my earlier post were not headlines taken from social media sites; I was merely stating that these types of sites are providing us the rapid news at our finger tips, keeping us tuned in to the latest happenings as they are reported. If you look closely I shared the links to every source I gathered the information from. Moving along...

I read a great quote by Oprah Winfrey today that I wanted to share:

"You are responsible for your life, and doing the best at this moment puts you in the best place for the next moment." 

Deep...So doing nothing or settling for mediocrity will only put you in the position to receive exactly that in the future.

So I'm a traitor...I have a new iPhone 4...abandoning my Blackberry, after four years of a committed relationship! What do I have to say about jumping ship and going over to the other team? Uugh...I love my iPhone...there I said it! I love my Blackberry, but my iPhone is like a 'mini me' iPad and it just works for me. One of my friends convinced me that it was time to make the transition. So I have a few questions for all of you diehard iPhone folks...I will share in another post.

Any tips that you want to share before our next connection? Please contact me.  You can post a comment here. I look forward to chatting. Gotta run, I just finished dinner and now it's time for my workout!

Natasha

Copyright 2010. Natasha L. Foreman. All Rights Reserved.

 

Zooming Through the News

How can we possibly keep up with what is going on around the world? Minute by minute something is happening, something and someone is altered and affected. Things happen so rapidly so information sharing and social media networking has made it possible to get ever-changing news fast. 

CANADA
Hear about the online dating site for "ugly" people in Canada? No you didn't read that wrong? Joe DeLuca created the dating site Ugly Schmucks (uglyschmucks.com) for those individuals who have difficulty finding "love" basically because of their looks. It's initially free to sign-up and then it's $13.00 per month to maintain a profile. You have the option of looking for a match in Canada or the U.S. 
Wow this is truly a doozy!  

NIGERIA
Another surprise was to find out yesterday that Nigerian President, Goodluck Jonathan declared his intention to run in elections next year, using an announcement on Facebook to steal the thunder from campaign launch of rival aspirant General Ibrahim Babangida. A presidency spokesman confirmed the Facebook page was genuine, while Information Minister Dora Akunyili said Jonathan had also told the cabinet of his intention to run.       

ZIMBABWE
Some good news or sad news depending how you want to look at it comes from Zimbabwe. Yesterday the Gukurahundi massacres that saw tens of thousands of innocent Zimbabweans killed by soldiers loyal to the Mugabe regime in the mid 1980s, were classified as "genocide" by Genocide Watch, an internationally recognized group based in Washington, DC. Professor Gregory Stanton, the group's chairperson said in an interview with the Tererai Karimakwenda of SW Radio Africa, that the Mugabe regime has been trying to sweep this atrocious event under the rug for 30 years now but this classification now means the perpetrators can be prosecuted no matter how much time has passed. It appears that the rug is about to be lifted.

SW Radio also reported that next week during the 65th session of the United Nations in New York, the South African government will lobby for the removal of targeted sanctions against Robert Mugabe and his ZANU PF officials. This was confirmed by the International Relations and Co-operation Minister, Maite Nkoana-Mashabane.

ETHIOPIA
Great news out of Ethiopia in the field of education. Access to education in Ethiopia has improved considerably, with primary school enrollment increasing more than 500% between 1994 and 2009,  according to a new report from the independent British think tank, Overseas Development Institute. The publication is based on research funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation.

LAOS
Some mystical news to entertain you coming from Asia...Laos to be exact...the discovery of a two-horned "unicorn" called a saola, which resembles an African antelope. Unfortunately soon after researchers arrived it had died; most likely the result of being weakened while in captivity for so long.

CHILE
Did you hear about one of the trapped Chilean miners who is now a proud father of a baby girl named Esmerelda? I pray that gives him added hope to live and make it home to his family.

U.S.
Back here in the good ole' US of A, Newt Gingrich is sinking even lower in his attacks against President Obama. This week he opened his mouth wide and said in an interview with the National Review Online, Web site of the prominent conservative magazine, "What if [Obama] is so outside our comprehension, that only if you understand Kenyan, anti-colonial behavior, can you begin to piece together [his actions]?" Gingrich asked . "That is the most accurate, predictive model for his behavior."

"This is a person who is fundamentally out of touch with how the world works, who happened to have played a wonderful con, as a result of which he is now president...I think he worked very hard at being a person who is normal, reasonable, moderate, bipartisan, transparent, accommodating -- none of which was true," Gingrich added. "In the Alinksy tradition, he was being the person he needed to be in order to achieve the position he needed to achieve. ... He was authentically dishonest." I wonder will good ole' Newt will be his authentic self, showing his 'true colors' if and when he runs for President in 2012?

Have you seen CNN reporter, Randy Kaye's footage on the 2007 Connecticut home invasion that left a mother and two daughters dead, and the husband badly beaten by the two hostage takers? A friend of mine sent me an email the other day but I was too busy to sit still to open the email. Today as I visited the CNN website the caption caught my attention. 

Even after the wife went to the bank and brought back $15,000 hoping it would be enough to convince the men to leave and not harm her and the rest of the family, the men still sexually assaulted the wife and one daughter before strangling and killing the mother; and eventually the two daughters. To make matters worse, there is a possibility that all three could have survived had the police acted upon the 911 call placed by the bank manager who was secretly alerted by the wife when she was withdrawing her money. Maybe you should see this for yourself:  http://www.cnn.com/video/?/video/crime/2010/09/17/kaye.home.invasion.cnn

Well that is only a brief look at what's been in the news around the world this week. Do you have any interesting, shocking, or beautiful news to share? Please do.

Until next time, continuing being a blessing and blessing others.


Copyright 2010. Natasha L. Foreman. All Rights Reserved

 

Sources
Unicorn http://news.blogs.cnn.com/2010/09/17/rare-asian-unicorn-captured/
Connecticut home invasion http://www.cnn.com/video/?/video/crime/2010/09/17/kaye.home.invasion.cnn
Ugly Schmucks Online dating uglyschmucks.com 
Newt Gingrich interview  http://www.nationalreview.com/corner/246302/gingrich-obama-s-kenyan-anti-colonial-worldview-robert-costa
Ethiopia Education Rates http://allafrica.com/stories/201009160877.html
Nigeria Presidential Election- Goodluck Facebook  http://www.facebook.com/jonathangoodluck
Zimbabwe genocide http://www.swradioafrica.com/news160910/guku160910.htm  
Zimbabwe sanctions http://www.swradioafrica.com/news170910/salobby170910.htm
Chilean Miner  http://ac360.blogs.cnn.com/

Day 7 and I Have Some News to Share

First let me say that when you fast on brown rice you need to explore various salt-free seasonings such as Cayenne Pepper, Pepper, and Curry Powder, which is what I have on tonight's meal...not all three, although I would try it. No, tonight I have pepper, curry powder and a pinch of sea salt. It is a nice twist as I begin to wrap up this phase of my fast. 

Yesterday I weighed myself and believed I had only lost three pounds, which was good news; but today something told me to weigh myself again, and guess what? I have actually lost roughly four to five pounds in 7 days. Now that sounds even better than three doesn't it? What is crazy is that this is water weight. 

My workout today was great. Very intense. I have a good soreness and my muscles are thriving off of the workload. It is important to work out when fasting (light to moderate intensity) so that you don't lose muscle while your body is flushing out trapped water, fat, and other junk. Remember the catch-phrase "if you don't use it you will lose it"...so workout at least 30 minutes to keep those muscles happy!


Copyright 2010. Natasha L. Foreman. All Rights Reserved.   

Who's That Sunshine?!?

Someone asked me recently how I got the nickname "Sunshine". Well when I was born both of my parents gave me nicknames...

My mother would smile and giggle as she saw me wiggle and flip around like a fish...so she quickly gave me the nickname "Fish". This became a true honor as I grew old enough to spend quality time with her father, my grandfather; known to many people as "King Fish". Ah it made me proud having a nickname that connected me to my grandfather. He was an awesome man. Oddly though he chose not to call me "Fish" and opted instead to name me "Yellow Belly"...yeah I guess you could say that is a fish, but he was referring to the color of my skin! No laughing please....

Now my father saw something different in me when I was a baby. He too would smile and laugh when he saw me wiggle, flip, and squirm; but he called me "Sunshine" for the light of joy I brought to my parents lives. My dad said that when I smiled it made other people smile; and how I brought a great energy when I entered a room. Wow! Talking about giving a girl an ego boost!

So I grew up being called "Sunshine" and "Fish" until ninth grade when I asked my mom to refrain from using "Fish" in public or around my friends, as their twisted little minds made a sweet, honored name into something resembling a description in a women's hygiene advertisement. Oh how they teased and inquired about that name. I had a reputation that I was building and trying to protect. We all know how high school can be-  get a negative label and you're done for! I know women to this day who are still referred to by the negative nicknames given to them in high school 20 and 30 years ago...I couldn't let that happen to me! So my mom agreed, and in time she eventually stopped calling me "Fish" altogether. I hoped and still hope that my plea didn't hurt her feelings. There are times I miss hearing her say it; when she says "Tasha" I'd almost prefer her to call me "Fish" instead. Maybe one day she will. 

So there you go. That is the history behind my nickname "Sunshine". I didn't make it up, just get it recently, or get it from some ex-boyfriend. Nope, my late, great father gave me that name and I love it. I even found a special way to remain connected to that name, that image, and my father forever...I'm inked for life! 

I hope you don't mind that I shared that little known fact about me. I also hope it doesn't help stalkers get one step closer to tracking me down! (Laugh)

Does anyone have any interesting childhood nicknames that they would like to share with me and my readers? I'd love to learn more about you. Please consider sharing! While you ponder that I will continue drafting my next two posts covering business tips and the latest in Africa. Until we meet here again, enjoy your life and be a blessing in another person's life. 

Natasha

Copyright 2010. Natasha L. Foreman. All Rights Reserved.

Day 6: Still Going Strong

Although I'm tired from ripping and running most of the day, and having an intense workout, I will say that overall I feel great. My body is sore from working out, but my spirits are high. My energy is low only because it's late and I need my sleep. I knew I was tired this evening when I could barely finish my bowl of rice. All I wanted was a hot bath and a firm bed. I just finished the former, and in less than 10 minutes I will be in the latter.

I've lost about 3 pounds so far which is awesome to think about. I'm focused on my health, well being, and getting to a point physically that I'm satisfied with...without obsessing over weight, size, and the like. Eventually I will share a deep story about my life, my childhood, and my obsession with "not wanting to be fat" but tonight is not the time.

Thank you to all of you who have sent me encouraging words of support because as many of you know, fasting is no joke!

Good night and bless you all!


Copyright 2010. Natasha L. Foreman. All Rights Reserved.

Day Five and I'm Looking and Feeling Great

Quickly let me share how today has been thus far. I'm a little sore from yesterday's two-a-day workout but I feel good. I woke up and got my day started off right guzzling back my first bottle of water, did my Bible lessons, did a light workout (due to time constraints) and then began my household tasks before heading out to run errands (the cause of my time constraints). 

How do I feel? 

Overall I feel great. I'm not craving food. I can see things I like to eat and I'm not desiring them. I even smelled a protein drink that I normally love, and my stomach almost turned- it didn't smell as tantalizing as usual. I found that to be interesting. I have noticed that my body is demanding more water more often. I'm glad that I brought a 24 ounce bottle of water with me, plus two 8.5 ounce bottles when I left the house, because I am extremely thirsty!

I'm keeping this short because I'm hungry and it's time for my next bowl of rice!

Ciao!


Copyright 2010. Natasha L. Foreman. All Rights Reserved.  

Day Four of Fasting...I'm Stuffed and Feeling the Burn

Four days down, fourteen left to go. The very first bite I took of brown rice today made me feel so full. I couldn't eat one cup (cooked) of rice in one sitting. Combined with water it swelled up in my little belly so fast that in the words of my late, great, and wonderful grandfather Elisberry Stephens, "I was as full as a tick!" Let me clarify something- just because I'm no longer on the water/liquid fast, does not mean that now I return to drinking sweet tea and juice while I eat brown rice. I'm still consuming water. That's all. No other drink. Just water and brown rice for the next 5-7 days. 

It took me over an hour to finish the first bowl. I ate half and the second half I finished after my workout, which may I add was intense. Normally I could breeze through, or not struggle so much with lunges, squats, pushups, and a grueling ab workout...but today I was winded (I struggled to breathe) and boy oh boy were my muscles burning! Although my body was screaming, "no way lady, let's do a brisk walk instead, this isn't a light to moderate workout you psycho!" I kept pushing myself through the workout. I knew I'd really feel good after, and I did and still do. Good enough to start my second workout once I submit this post. 

This fast is helping me push past my fears, my hangups, my issues, and my fitness plateau. I don't like living in the woulda, shoulda, coulda world; so I have reached the point of saying "enough is enough". I want to be the best that I can be in everything, and I can't be the best fitness trainer if I don't look and feel the part (despite what others think and say). If I'm not feeling my best then I can't be the best business consultant, friend, daughter, sister, granddaughter, niece, cousin, girlfriend, wife or mother...okay I got ahead of myself, but you get my drift.

My favorite number since I was a youth was "1". I always wanted to be number one in everything; even if I didn't succeed I was still climbing, fighting, racing to be number one. The past few days I realized that I lost that vibe. I was okay not being number one in certain parts of my life, and that took its toll on me emotionally, spiritually, and physically. It prevented me from taking risks that I used to take or wouldn't hesitate to take in my 20s. What the heck happened to Natasha the go-getter? She entered her 30s and got lost. 

I turn 35 next month and I refuse to enter another birthday lost. Number One is coming back folks and she means business..."like it, love it, or leave it" just don't get in my way! My eyes are wide open, not blurry, or clouded with junk...wide open and I'm loving it. I've got to scram...time to workout, sweat, and feel the burn! 


Copyright 2010. Natasha L. Foreman. All Rights Reserved.   

Day 3 of Fasting and I am Pumped Up

Day three of fasting was exhilarating! Something crazy happened as I was leaving the gates of the community where I live...I noticed the gardeners planted flowered shrubs in the front...that I hadn't noticed until TODAY! That means that I have been driving to and from home for I don't know how long (definitely more than a week) and never took notice. Wow that is sad in a way. Well I just smiled, bobbed my head to the gospel song that was playing on the radio, and took notice of my surroundings. 

After a moderately intense workout at the park I felt like I could continue, but I didn't want to overdo it. It is suggested that you take it easier than normal while fasting since you are not sure how your body will respond to an intense workout. So, what else did I notice today? Well, my energy level is still high, my body temperature is still elevated, and I'm definitely well hydrated! After looking at and touching my skin, I can see a remarkable improvement in how it feels and looks, which says a great deal since I have always had super soft skin (seriously). What I'm referring to more specifically is how the water is clearly flushing out of areas where it has no business being. Think how my body will look in five, seven, ten, and fifteen days from now; can you say 'ooh wee' with me?

Tomorrow will be day four with a twist. I will of course continue drinking tons of water (a minimum of eleven 8 ounce glasses), but my fast now transitions to whole grain brown rice four times a day for the next 5 to 7 days. Brown rice fasting is another ancient form of fasting, as it cleanses and detoxes the body, and also helps alleviate digestive issues...but it is less intense than water, liquid, or juice fasting. I will consume one to two cups of cooked rice four times per day. Good thing I love brown rice!  

According to a fasting website I discovered last night, in addition to light to moderate exercise, drinking plenty of water, and at least 8 to 10 hours of sleep each night, we should also "Take time to do breathing exercises to help you shed toxins and oxygenate your blood, as well as dry skin brushing to enhance the body's ability to detox through both the skin and the lymphatic system." I know from experience that the dry skin brushing with either a specialized skin brush or natural loofah sponge, does wonders for your skin. Research it for yourself and be sure to follow the instructions/suggestions closely.

I intend to fast at least 14 days, transitioning from one type of fast to another, gradually reintroducing my body to whole, organic raw and cooked food. No worries, I will bring you along on my journey so you can live vicariously through me; experiencing it without having to make the ultimate sacrifice!

Now let me cover all of my bases and make sure that I stress as I did in my post yesterday... do not begin a fast, diet, or any exercise regimen without consulting with a medical professional first. Period. Don't pass 'Go' and collect one hundred dollars; get the proper 'green light' from a medical professional who can best determine your needs, restrictions, and limitations. 

Whatever path you take to improving your health, be committed and passionate, because this is the only body we have; so treat it right!

Tomorrow is day four of my journey. I will check in to report how it's coming along. Gotta run, need to drink my water!


Copyright 2010. Natasha L. Foreman. All Rights Reserved.


Sources:

Fasting:  http://www.allaboutfasting.com/rice-fasting.html

Analyzing and Leveraging Your SWOT 9.13.10

You have had quite some time to look over your SWOT, possibly adding more and refining traits. Now you must do something with this. You must act, in order to leverage these traits and grow. Want to know how to begin?

Look at your SWOT and take the first one or two items in each category and put them into a separate document so you are only focused on those. Do not skip around and select one or two; just take the first one or two from each category. 

They say it takes 21 days to make or break a habit; so let's work diligently the next 21 days to build our weaknesses into strengths, increase and secure our strengths so that they do not become weaknesses, turn our threats into opportunities, and capitalize on our opportunities. Every single day we will focus on these items, and not detour until we have successfully mastered them. At that point we will progress by adding more items to our list until we have completed the entire SWOT.

Now I know some of you may try to convince yourself that you can take on the challenge of four, five, or even more of these at one time, but remember that there are four categories. Sure you could work at maintaining strengths and opportunities, but while you are doing that you have to work harder at turning weaknesses and threats in your favor. 

This is not a sprint. It is a marathon. We must pace ourselves, know when to stride, when to pick up speed, when to grab that drink, and when to let it all out and go for the gusto to win the race. Now let me clarify, we also are not running at a snail's pace; this is a high intensity race where only the strong survive. There are no short cuts. 

Now get your running shoes and gear, make sure you're well hydrated and ready for a light warm-up, because the race begins today...RIGHT NOW!





Copyright 2010. Natasha L. Foreman. All Rights Reserved.

Fasting: A Connection, An Awakening, A Commitment...and My Body Likes it Too!

Today is day two on my liquid fast (drinking nothing but water and a special juice and vitamin blend that I mix with water) and wowsers it has been an exhilarating experience. Let me say right now, do not...I repeat...do not begin a fast, diet, or any exercise regimen without consulting with a medical professional first. Yes, I got the green light to begin mine. Now that I have covered that, let's move forward.

Removing all food and drinks that normally would satisfy my temporary needs for instant gratification, and of course sustenance is a fear (believe it or not)  many people struggle with. Now for those people who don't have access to food and sweets, and the like, this is not a huge step for them...this is their reality, something they live daily. For the rest of us who have free access to basically anything we want to consume, we can't fathom not eating for one or more days (especially if we're not physically sick).

So what am I experiencing on day two?

My body has reignited. It is recharging, cleansing, flushing out, burning junk, and feeling good...no...great. My mind is sharp and my energy level is up. I was so in-tune during church service today as the message that came to me focused on faith and overcoming our fears...timely and much-needed message.  

As I type this post my body heat has increased considerably to the point that I'm perspiring. I noticed this happening earlier today but did not pay close attention to what was going on exactly. My experience as an athlete has signaled my mind to quickly comprehend what is taking place inside my temple. My body is going through diet-induced Thermogenesis and soon Ketosis. Aaaah two big "three dollar words" one of my closest friends would say. For those of you who consider 'research' as searching on Google or deferring to Wikipedia let me share with you the process of diet-induced thermogenesis, and what Wikipedia defined and explained Ketosis to be:

Diet-induced Thermogenesis basically is the creation of heat induced by one's diet. It is the process where your body heats up considerably as it burns stored fat. One example I found said for us to look at thermogenesis like a thermostat being turned up in our body. "If we turn up the thermostat, we're causing more of the energy we take in to go into thermogenesis as well as other areas of the sympathetic system, so less of the energy is used in work and less is used for storage and less goes to fat. The brown fat is activated, and it calls into service the white cells, which are the primary storage of fat in the body." (natural.com)

There is also thermogenesis that is brought on by working out, and of course by supplements and drugs. 

All of that is amazing isn't it?

So what is Ketosis?
It "is a state of the organism characterised by elevated levels of ketone bodies in the blood, by the process of ketogenesis. Ketone bodies are formed when the liver glycogen stores are depleted. The ketone bodies acetoacetate and ß-hydroxybutyrate are used for energy. [1]"

When looking at ketosis and dieting:

"If the diet is changed from a highly glycemic diet to a diet that does not provide sufficient carbohydrate to replenish glycogen stores, the body goes through a set of stages to enter ketosis. During the initial stages of this process, the adult brain does not burn ketones; however, the brain makes immediate use of this important substrate for lipid synthesis in the brain."

So then what happens?

"After about 48 hours of this process, the brain starts burning ketones in order to more directly utilize the energy from the fat stores that are being depended upon, and to reserve the glucose only for its absolute needs, thus avoiding the depletion of the body's protein store in the muscles."

Wow now that is incredible, don't you think?

So at the same time I am refocusing my mind, overcoming my fears, committing to finding myself and regaining faith in the unknown and inconceivable, I am also rebuilding my body and making it better and more efficient. Day two is almost over and day three will begin before I know it (God willing)...I'm not sure how many days I will fast, definitely no more than seven. I look forward to the experience more and will keep everyone posted on how I'm doing. Once again let me stress...do not begin a fast, diet, or any exercise regimen without consulting with a medical professional first! Until we meet here again, make it an awesome day!




Copyright 2010. Natasha L. Foreman. All Rights Reserved.



Sources

Diet-induced thermogenesis http://www.all-natural.com/thermo.html

High body temperature when fasting/dieting 
Ketosis. Wikipedia. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ketosis

My SWOT: Family and Friends Provide Feedback 9.12.10

Have you taken the time to share your SWOT with friends and family? What did they have to say? Did they share more traits that you hadn't thought about? What did you discover about yourself? What did you discover about how your loved ones view and relate to you?

Here's what I found out from a loved one who added to my lists (these are their exact words I copied/pasted from their email):

Strengths                                                                                   
 
Family oriented
Loyal - this goes a little deeper than trustworthy
Go Getter
Independent Thinker
Leader
Intelligent
You stand out in crowd
Your presence is welcomed
You live loud yet conservative
Your character speaks for you
Hard Worker
Not complicated
Play well with others
Drama Free
Not afraid to speak up
Dependable
 
Weaknesses
 
Too afraid of creepy crawly things - haaaa
Loyal to those who don't want to see you shine like the star you are
Helper to those who have selfish goals



This analysis opened my eyes to other qualities I had overlooked and hadn't thought of as I made and reviewed my SWOT. Looking closely at this I'm more of a 'people person' than I thought I was, my presence does matter, and some of the things that make me special (a giver, loyal, and dependable) also leave me more vulnerable to being hurt and taken advantage of. Looking at this list of how someone else who loves me, sees me, reassures me that I'm not in this alone, that I'm doing something right most of the time, and that I always have another person in my corner who sees, knows, and appreciates me for me. 

That is deep! Now it is time to take things to the next level....


 Copyright 2010. Natasha L. Foreman. All Rights Reserved.

Natasha's SWOT Analysis 9.2.10

Two weeks ago I proposed that we all participate in creating an individual personal SWOT Analysis to look at our strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats in our personal lives so that we can see how to build upon our 'pluses' and turn our 'minuses' into 'pluses'. The goal was to list 10-20 traits in each category, but if we had less than 10 or more than 20... we wouldn't worry one second! 

Below is my SWOT, as you can clearly see in some areas I have more than 20, and in other areas I'm right at 14 or less. These traits of course are not listed in any particular order; just whatever came to mind first. The ultimate goal is to leverage all four areas to my advantage and overall growth...sooner than later.

We have to be real with ourselves. Don't hold back and don't sugar coat this analysis, you will only be doing yourself a disservice. Many of your traits you may initially overlook or categorize incorrectly; but rest assure that family and friends are never far off the mark with their assessments about you. Be sure (if you haven't already done so) to share your SWOT with me, and if you want you can post as a comment or simply request that I post yours for other readers to see, and find any commonalities. Also take time to share with a few family members and friends to get their insight. It will be interesting to see what they have to say. 

Natasha's SWOT Analysis 9.2.10     

STRENGTHS

1. Results-driven
2. Efficient
3. Realist
4. Creative
5. Go-to person (get it done type)
6. Analytical
7. Sense of humor
8. Humility
9. Work well with people
10. Great vision
11. Insight
12. Live with multi-cultural perspective 
13. Gracious
14. Huge heart
15. Considerate
16. Loving
17. Organized
18. Trustworthy
19. Trusting
20. Common sense
21. Street smart
22. Can mix and mingle in any setting 
23. Can speak to anyone on any level (communicate with business professionals, academics and the layperson)
24. Effective teacher/instructor/trainer
25. When I'm told I can't do something I focus my energy on proving that I can
26. Degrees in Black Studies, MBA with marketing specialization, and currently pursuing my Doctorate in Organization and Management with a management education specialization, and a certificate in college teaching


WEAKNESSES

1. Can let fear stop me in my tracks
2. Issues with asking for help (don't ask enough)
3. Impatient
4. Procrastination
5. Not comfortable 'networking'
6. Sometimes see the glass half empty
7. Don't know how to say "no" enough
8. Sometimes struggle with disconnecting from 'work' to enjoy life
9. Stubborn
10. Opinionated
11. Don't put 'self' first (second to God) enough 
12. Bite my tongue when I should speak up and speak out (in my personal and professional life)
13. Don't charge clients what I'm worth
14. Don't value my time enough
15. Miss opportunities that could propel me to my goals faster and sooner 
16. Sometimes doubt myself
17. May compromise myself into total dissatisfaction 
18. Lower my standards too often
19. Have issues with dealing with loss (never grieve in healthy way)
20. Carry around too much stress
21. Sometimes have difficulty delegating ("might as well do it myself if I want it done right the first time")
22. In my past, gifts and favors from men came with a constant disclaimer "I got this for you...I did this for you" so I have issues/reservations with accepting gifts and favors from men. I'd rather get/do it myself or not have it
23. Not good with saving and investing money properly (inconsistent)
24. Don't work out on a consistent basis with the intensity required to reach and maintain my desired goals
25. Not finishing everything I start
26. Control freak
 

OPPORTUNITIES

1. Opportunity to develop and grow my companies to the level where I have several employees handling multiple client accounts with limited or no supervision from me; and operations are so efficient that I can travel for pleasure at my leisure
2. College teaching position (teaching online, distance, and traditional on-campus business classes) 
3. Increasing my patience; notice a significant difference now than two years ago (and especially five years ago)
4. Marriage and family 
5. Regular vacations lasting 7 (+) days
6. Ability to travel more globally, even for business
7. Re-build global client base
8. Live life to its fullest; enjoying all the small wonders it has to offer that I currently overlook because I'm too overwhelmed with the nuances of life.
9. Re-build my nest egg
10. Finally get one of my books finished and published
11. Purchasing several family and income properties 
12. More speaking, mentoring and tutoring opportunities    
13. Meeting prospective clients through referrals
14. Gaining additional mentors and advisors to help guide me

THREATS

1. Other companies/consultants can have competitive advantage because they don't delay making contact and sharing their services with prospective clients
2. Miss opportunities to excel in career because of my fears
3. By not adequately and efficiently leveraging my strengths and weaknesses towards a truly successful and rewarding career (with considerable financial gains) I risk overwhelming amounts of personal debt
4. My personal hang ups prevent me from having the life I desire (marriage and family; and financial security)
5. Too much planning and not enough action will result in great ideas that never amount to anything but great ideas
6. Losing focus and never getting one of my books finished and published 


Wow now that is quite a bit to reflect on. My next post we will do exactly that and I will explain how to take your SWOT and make it work for you. Until next time have an awesome day!


Copyright 2010. Natasha L. Foreman. All Rights Reserved.