Be (the) Present this December

If you’re anything like me you either vow to be on top of it all and as ahead of the hustle and bustle as possible or....you are the hustle and bustle!
December seems to provoke a time of stress and the expectation of being the best yet. But what if we decide to intentially take pause and take a step back from the busy-ness of the holidays to think about how to make it a season that we will remember. Purposely remember it. Savor it. Memorialize it.
As much as I hate to admit it, it's a lot easier to say, "Be present!" than it is to actually do it. This year I've decided to come up with a (hopefully) plan to make the most of this month, and not just for purpose of the holiday season.
Create a December to Remember with the Be Present Plan
△1: Live each moment in the present. During the holiday season, there is so much going on. There are holiday gatherings to attend, gifts to purchase, cards to mail and more. We tend to get lost and forget that the season is about - giving to others and spending time with those you love. If you find yourself overwhelmed by the chaos of the season, take a deep breath and pay attention to the present moment. If you take a moment to pay attention to what's going on around you, you'll be much more likely to remember it long after the season has passed.
△ 2: Carry out your favorite traditions. Are there things you love to do every year? Are there traditions you miss from when you were younger that you can keep alive? Sticking to the traditions to love is one way to make sure your holiday season will be more memorable. Embracing traditions you know and love really can help to make your holiday more memorable.
△ 3: Be open to new experiences and do something you've never done before. Trying something new -- regardless of what you're celebrating -- is a great way to make a moment memorable. When we do the same thing over and over again, we're a lot less likely to remember it. So if you really want to up your being present game, open your mind to new ideas and don't be afraid to break away from the things you've always done. You never know -- you might just create a brand new tradition for yourself!
△ 4: Capture your moments but also find balance by putting the phone cameras down and enjoy seeing the memories outside of the lens. We fall into the trap of trying to capture moments that are “post worthy” so much that we miss the importance of those moments as they are happening. Really think about what you want to remember this December and be sure capture it on camera and in your memory.
△ 5:  Take the time this December to write about the moments that matter most to you. When rushing around it will be hard to pause and write down the memories you're experiencing, but, believe me, you'll be happy if you take the time to do it. Even if you don't have a ton of free time, set aside a few minutes at the end of every day this month and write about what you've experienced. Write about the things that meant the most to you and strive to focus on the positive things about the holiday season. If you take the time to write it down now, you'll look back in years to come and smile at the memories.
I really, really want to stick to this plan and embrace the moments I'm experiencing. I want to live in the now and be completely present. I am really going to try to live in the moments this December and, hopefully, it will be a December I’ll never forget.

Give + Be Grateful

Move your body. Quiet your mind. Take a deep breath.
Reconnect with your authentic self and find your true purpose.
Someone once said to me, “Life is short, but it is also long.”
You have time to come back to you, and that time is now.
It’s time to give and be grateful.
It’s time to reflect on what you have gratitude for.
It’s time to increase your feelings of self-love, mindfulness and become even more aware of you and all that you have to give and be grateful for.

Why Give and be Grateful?

• Gratitude motivates contentment. It also improves mood by enhancing feelings of optimism, joy, pleasure, enthusiasm, and other positive emotions. Conversely, gratitude also reduces anxiety and depression. 

• Gratitude promotes physical health. Did you know that there are studies that suggest gratitude helps to lower blood pressure, strengthen the immune system, reduce symptoms of illness, and make us less bothered by aches and pains? 

• Gratitude enhances sleep. Grateful people tend to get more sleep each night, spend less time awake before falling asleep, and feel more rested upon awakening. If you want to sleep more soundly, instead of counting sheep count your blessings. 

• Gratitude strengthens relationships. It makes us feel closer and more connected to others. When we feel and express gratitude for one another we become more satisfied with our relationships. 

• Gratitude encourages “paying it forward.” Grateful people are generally more helpful, generous of spirit, and compassionate. 

Two specific ways you can practice the skill of being grateful are by writing gratitude letters and making gratitude lists.

A gratitude letter is one you write to someone in your life to express appreciation for ways they have helped you and/or been there for you. Gratitude letters can be about events that have happened in the past or are happening in the present, and often help to strengthen or repair relationships.

A gratitude list consists of writing down 3 – 5 things for which you’re grateful every day, each week, at other intervals, or under situation-specific circumstances.

Try one of these methods and then take notice of how you feel and if your mood has shifted.

Let me know what you experience!

Saying Goodbye to 'A Girl's Best Friend'

Saying goodbye to “A Girl’s Best Friend”

Today we had to make one of the hardest decisions anyone must make that has a pet-to allow them to pass without suffering anymore.  Our boxer Logan was the sweetest, gentlest and kindest soul.  I feel I need to acknowledge him in some way because what I may have taken for granted is the fact that he was my absolute source of unconditional love.  I am writing this because I feel I need to memorialize my feelings. 

We adopted Logan when he was 5 years old from a family that was moving and looking to give him to a family that would give him a good life.  I never grew up with pets and when we adopted Logan, we had already had our smaller dog, Harley, a puggle.  I thought that was more than enough for me at the time.  However, my husband had always wanted a Boxer and when I received a text that a family was looking for a home for their Boxer, and then the picture came through, there was just something about him.  I had to show my husband and I somehow became open to the fact of possibly owning two dogs.  We met him soon after and Logan immediately had an effect on us and I immediately had a soft spot for him.  He quickly became a member of our family. He quickly became my best friend.

I feel that he came to us during a time in our life where things were stressful, also joyful and completely crazy-insane!  No matter what we were going through as a family, he was our silent support.  What I am now realizing is that he was not only my constant shadow, following me around the house, no matter what I was doing-getting dressed, working, cooking-he was always right there by my side.  He is the only one I feel in this house that loved me completely unconditionally. This is going to be one of the hardest things about losing him.

He didn’t care if I was happy, sad, stressed or moody.  He didn’t care if I looked a complete mess, he loved me regardless.  He didn’t care if all he had to do was sit with me in silence.  It’s like he knew what I was thinking and didn’t judge me.  We vibed on one another’s vibes. I felt he knew what I thinking or how I was feeling by just giving me this 'look' he had.

I never had to worry about him wanting to spend time with me.  That’s the amazingness about pets, they love you and want to be with you no matter what.  They don’t care how you look, (thank goodness) or what you have or don’t have—they just love your soul and the true being you are.  They understand your energy at any given moment and adapt to it, letting you know they are there. Sure, I would tell him many times to stop following me and just to relax and go lay down. Sure, I would tell him to just let me take a shower in peace. Those are the moments I am now going to miss the most.  He knew me—ME. The real me and loved me anyway.

With him around I always felt safe. I was never truly alone, and I am going to miss that feeling of safety. 

He was part of our family for 6 years, not nearly long enough but we were blessed to have even been able to have him be a part of our lives.  It seems he aged so fast and literally over a month’s time.  He was almost 11.  Time flies fast and this serves as a reminder that time is passing, it is always passing, and we need to do whatever we can to slow it down and enjoy the moments in time that we will look back on and remember as the more meaningful ones.

So, Logan, I am truly thankful for having you in my life. I hope you will keep an eye on us from your side of the rainbow bridge.

Thank you for your unwavering and unconditional love. Thank you for being my non-judgmental shadow and confidant.  Thank you for being you.  I love you and am going to miss you terribly kiddo.

You were truly this girl’s best friend.

New Year...New Promises

Who is ready to step into 2018? Every New Year it seems brings the perfect opportunity for all of us to BE BETTER and DO BETTER than we were the year prior, right? I have always set goals versus resolutions each year with the hope of achieving them before the year ends- do you all set goals for yourselves? If so, what are yours for 2018?

This year I have decided that I’m not going to set ANY GOALS. No-sir-ee! Instead I am making PROMISES. Promises first and foremost to myself. My thought behind this is that I NEVER go back on a promise. I am a girl of my word. If I promise you that I will or won’t do something, you better believe I will follow through with it and won’t let you down. So why on earth would I make a promise to myself and let mySELF down? Not going to happen.  Makes you think differently, am I right?!

2018 is upon us, and so is the promise of what is to come. Promise yourself you’ll work towards being the best version of YOU-mind, body and soul. Then work on the promises you’ll make to keep for your loved ones, etc.

Last but not least, as we get ready to say goodbye to 2017 and hello to 2018, I just want to wish every single one of you a wonderful and amazing New Year. As we say goodbye to this year, and reflect on things that we accomplished / are grateful for- I just want to say thank you all so much for an amazing 2017- together you have helped me accomplish so many things far and beyond my dreams and I am so extremely grateful.
I can't wait to see all the awesome things that we will explore, experience and achieve in 2018 together. Have the most wonderful New Year. I promise I will do my absolute best to help make that happen for you in any way I can.

xo,

Gina

Holiday Self Care Challenge! Simple Ways to Take Care of yourSELF During the Holidays...and beyond.

Simple Ways to Take Care of YourSELF During the Holidays.

Most of us are in the throes of the season. With that unfortunately is us getting sick and feeling rundown due to the expectations and pressures that we put on ourselves to create the “best holiday ever”.  Unfortunately, the stress that comes with this magical time of year seems to be accepted by many and par for the course.

Tis the season to socialize more, spend more, do more, eat more, and sleep LESS. If taking care of yourself doesn’t come naturally, and you still insist on putting everything else before your own needs, you probably go into over-serving mode during the holidays. You go out of your way to make sure everything is ready, and neglect taking time out to care for yourself. Does this sound like you?

If you fall into this mode, or if you are just in need of some extra good TLC during this time, try one of these simple ways to take care of you during the holidays...and into 2018.

1. morning routine
If every day, you make a little time for yourself first thing, you can move through your day with more grace and intention. Your morning routine might only be 5 minutes long to start, but even that will help. Use the time to sit quietly with a cup of tea, meditate, journal, walk, or include other activities that feed your body, mind, heart, and soul.

2. candlelight
I love listening to music with candles burning or just sitting quietly in candlelight. As the days get darker, add light to your day.

3. take a walk
Go outside and take a walk. Bundle up if it’s cold and head out with the intention of noticing the magic of the season. Don’t worry about burning calories or tracking your activity, just enjoy yourself and the moment.

4. respect your budget
Once you figure out what you can spend on extras like holiday gifts, events, and other holiday things, honor that. If you splurge now, you pay even more later. And later comes sooner than you think. Why not invite those you usually exchange with to spend quality time versus gift giving. It eliminates the stress of what to buy and provides memories that will be priceless.

5. indulge and eat well
Indulge in your favorite holiday treats, but keep a balance by eating well during 85-90% of the time. Don’t eat the treats you don’t really care about just because it’s there, and savor the first few bites of your indulgences. It’s ok to give it all a try in smaller portion sizes and enjoy without the guilt.

6. live without a schedule
Make room for holiday magic to unfold and cancel some of your planned activities.

7. nap
Give your body and brain a chance to recharge on those go-go-go holiday marathon days. Even 15 minutes can make a big difference.

8. get lost in a book
Unplug. Close your computer and other digital devices and curl up with a good book. Instead of reading something for self-improvement or work, read something for your heart and escape into a good read.

9. laugh
Call or spend time with those that make you laugh harder than anyone else. Then laugh until you cry.

10. find the blessings in your messes
For some reason we really like to beat ourselves up at the end of the year for all that we’ve done and left undone. Sometimes it takes a big, heart wrenching mess to wake us up, to inspire change, and to finally release us from the guilt of getting there in the first place. Understand the lessons and the blessings and move forward.

11. forgive
It’s not too late. Your forgiveness will not only heal their hearts, it will heal yours.   P.S. You don’t need an apology to forgive someone.

12. be grateful
Directing more of our attention towards gratitude for the things that make our lives wonderful are scientifically proven to make us healthier, more energetic, less stressed and anxious, and help us get better sleep.

13. say goodbye to guilt
Usually guilt is not guilt at all, but instead it’s sadness that you couldn’t do more to help, disappointment that you didn’t achieve something you set out to do, or anger because you said “yes” to something that deserved a “no”. Let that go.

14. give
There are so many opportunities to give, so many people and organizations in need. Pick something close to heart and give the way you want to give instead of how you think you are supposed to give.

15. make something
Be creative. Write a poem, start a book, draw or paint, and express yourself. Make. Create. Enjoy the process with no expectations.

16. breathe
Frustrated? Breathe in. Breathe out. Worried? Breathe in. Breathe out. Overwhelmed? Breathe in. Breathe out. Confused? Breathe in. Breathe out. Exhausted? Breathe in. Breathe out. Start there and you can often avoid over-thinking and over-reacting.

17. let go
There are benefits to moving through life, work, and relationships with a lighter step, a lighter look, and a lighter heart. If we want to be light, we have to let go of what is weighing us down.

18. stop and drop
If you’ve already overdone it, consider a full stop. Sometimes backing off isn’t enough. Take a whole day to yourself and vow to do nothing more than take care of yourself all day long.

I hope that you will take care of yourself over the holidays. It’s the best gift you can give yourself and everyone you love.

Happy Holidays to You and Yours!

Xo

Gina

Need a HYGGE?

Lately I have been really wanting to ground myself and enjoy a more simplistic way of life.  I am often regarded as the girl that can do it all, I work full time, have a busy lifestyle and holistic coaching practice, three boys, one of which is a toddler, and life in general is just BUSY.  I find myself needing and wanting to slow things down. In this feat I have come across the Danish lifestyle practice of HYGGE and have been adapting it little by little into my daily life. I have made a more conscious effort to spend more time present with family and friends.  I have enjoyed that cup of coffee and savored that glass of whiskey for a little while longer.  My husband and I have been cooking home cooked meals together at least 3-4 nights a week and have made a more conscious effort to slow things down.  I have turned off the television and have read at least one book a week with a candle burning nearby while wrapped up in a cozy chunky-knit blanket.  I have lingered in the shower for a few extra minutes to enjoy the warmth on colder mornings.

So I have broken down what I have learned about Hygge and what I am starting to practice in hopes that in translating it here, you can adopt some of this practice and also enjoy your time alone, with family and friends and ultimately have more precious moments this holiday season.

What is HYGGE? How to embrace this cozy Life Style Concept:
In Danish, hygge is (pronounced “HUE-gah”). Though there are many ways to describe hygge, it is known simply as the Danish ritual of enjoying life's simple pleasures. Friends. Family. Graciousness. It is used when acknowledging a feeling or moment, whether alone or with friends, at home or out, ordinary or extraordinary as cozy, charming or special.

Frequently described as ‘coziness’ or ‘togetherness’ in English, the term has no literal translation, making it almost impossible to pinpoint exactly what hygge means. Largely defined as more of a feeling or mood more than a specific word, the concept can be interpreted as a mental state rather than a physical one. 

Hygge is the art form of creating intimacy in any given moment. Normally a social occasion for loved ones to get together to experience the comradeship, warmth and contentment of the event, it can also be enjoyed alone to calm the nerves and sooth the senses. It is about appreciating the small joys in life at all times. 

How to Adapt to a Hygge Lifestyle

1. Light a Candle(s)
Whether scented or unscented, candlelight transforms an interior space into a flickering escape from chilly weather and a simple lit candle is seen as one of the most fundamental hygge moments to achieve. Give it a glow.

2. Add Textures to your Space
When you think of cozy and warming to create the perfect relaxing moment, think of lusciously soft textures for your décor such as chunky knit cushions, faux fur throws and pillows and fluffy woolen rugs. Not only does this create a modern and on trend styled look in any room, when combined with a roaring fire or soft candlelight, there is no setting more hygge.

3. Keep it Simple
You don’t need to overhaul your interior to make it more "hyggeligt", tiny additions to the home can transform any moment. Treating yourself to your favorite coffee or tea, indulging in new bubble bath and add some candlelight or finally putting your favorite photographs on the wall are all instant mood lifters whenever you use/see them, so take the time to enjoy them.

4. Hygge with Family & Friends
Why not invite your nearest and dearest over and get cooking, or enjoy a glass of wine (or whiskey) by a fire? Try hosting a Game Night. Not just reserved for staying inside, hygge can also be found in the great outdoors and joy can be found from simply putting on your warmest clothes and going on a winter walk with your favorite people. The notion of hygge can also be used to uplift others, so test out your baking skills and take your creation round to a friend’s house you haven’t seen in a while to indulge in a spot of hygge together.

5. Take Up a New Hobby or Practice an Old One
Taking up new hobbies to enjoy in the home allows you to switch off and refocus the mind. Turn off the TV and computers, put down the phones, and grow to love something new that you can nurture during your hygge moments in the home or pick up something you used to love to do but don’t have time for anymore. Curl up and read a good book or take on a new crafty hobby such as knitting or sewing.

6. Slow it Down
We are always rushing aren’t we? We always have somewhere to be and we are always thinking about the next thing we have to. To truly hygge you need to slow down a bit to take it all in, enjoy the small cozy moments. There will always be something else to think or worry about but this concept teaches you to take each moment as it is without rushing onto the next. Sleep in! Take the time to really enjoy the mug of coffee you have made, stay an extra ten minutes in the shower to ensure daily stresses have melted away and definitely savor that slice of cake – or you will regret it later.

7. Don't Overdo it
Hygge is never about overdoing it. It’s not about who you can impress or wow.  It is more about creating a warm and inviting space for friends and family to gather—or one that is your own unique haven.  Dinner gatherings should be simple and go back to basics for a more natural, laidback feel.

8. Enjoy the Space Around You
The key idea behind hygge is to enjoy the environment around you and feel that you have your own sanctuary to retreat to and escape and enjoy true relaxation. So whatever you are doing, take the time to revel in the tiny moments that make you smile and uplift the soul.

9. Remember to Hygge Year Round
Hygge is frequently associated with coziness, but it is a life style that can be enjoyed all year round. In warmer months, go to a local park for a picnic, sit out in the sun with a magazine, enjoy a BBQ outside with friends.  

10. Find the Hygge in a simple hug
Remember Hygge is more of a feeling than an activity.  It’s more about the connections made and the state of being.  If you look it up, it is appropriately linked to the word “hug”. 

So go ahead, pull someone close and start your Hygge lifestyle journey- one hug at a time. 

Xo
Gina

Healing Your Whole SELF

“When diet is wrong, medicine is of no use. When diet is correct, medicine is of no need” – Ayurvedic proverb

                         

I am excited to announce that I am officially a Certified Holistic Nutritionist! Many of my clients come to me for emotional support and advice, however during our sessions there is often a missing piece that I needed. Many clients struggle with health issues and I felt that I needed to have more training and information on how to offer solutions and guidance to support your goals.

I have always recognized that there is no “one size fits all” diet which is going to cure all illnesses. Through my insight and coaching with you, I focus on having a thorough understanding of your personal goals, needs, and lifestyle to create a food and life style that is tailored for YOU.

Let me help you get things back on track not only emotionally but physically as well so you can start thriving, rather than just surviving!

Food STYLE

Food has the power to nourish, heal and energize our bodies. As a society, we are no longer truly nourishing ourselves with food, usually because we are too busy to take the time to do so. Instead we opt for pre-packaged and processed “fake foods”, which cause us more harm than we could have ever imagined. To truly heal ourselves, we need to reconnect with real, whole, nutrient-dense foods and eat the way nature intended. 

Four simple food rules:

1. If you can grow it, pick it, hunt it; if it will rot; if it was once alive (plants as well) – eat it. If it is packaged and processed, don’t eat it

2. Food should always be enjoyed – “healthy” does not have to mean “tasteless”

3. Create an awareness and appreciation of how you eat and where the food you eat comes from

4. Choose quality over quantity


Active Life STYLE

Exercise is a form of stress on the body, which means a little can be of huge benefit to your wellbeing, but too much is just as detrimental as none at all. My key exercise principles:

1. Train smarter, not longer, doing a variety of exercises and movements that you enjoy and have fun!

2. Never view exercise as “punishment” for something else

3. Always allow adequate time for rest, recovery and regeneration and incorporate mindfulness in your routine to help with stress and decompression

My Life STYLE Approach

My philosophy is simple: Eat real food! Holistic nutrition addresses the whole person by determining and addressing the underlying causes of your health conditions rather than simply addressing the symptoms.Stress, negativity, lack of sleep and lack of play can undo all of the benefits we obtain from eating well and training smart. It’s true. 

So start being kind to yourSELF (and others) NOW by:
1. Try to get 7-8hrs of sleep each night to allow your body to adequately rejuvenate
2. Incorporate stress management into each and every day, such as meditation, deep breathing or simply going for a 10 minute walk (or sit) outside
3. Play! Do something fun with friends or family on a regular basis that is unrelated to work or exercise

Remember –

• 
Optimal wellness is so much more than simply eating good food, but food is an excellent starting point
• You can’t out-train a bad diet
•  Have fun with your new life style approach to wellness

Styling Your Personal Program:

I design personalized nutrition & wellness programs for my clients, who come to me with a variety of concerns such as stress, fatigue, aches and pains, weight gain and weight loss, digestive issues, hormonal balance, infertility, PMS, anxiety & mood swings, or direction with cleansing/detoxing.

My approach focuses on three main areas: nutrition, lifestyle/emotional wellness, and exercise/stress relief. I will design a meal plan, help you uncover hidden food allergies that may be causing some health problems, and aside from what I uncover during the consultation process, I use my insight and training to uncover areas of imbalance, and I’ll recommend various methods to help you achieve optimal health.

You deserve to be SELFishly Styled from the inside out and to live a life that is healthy and vibrant!

If you are interested in a FREE Holistic Nutrition Assessment, Contact Me Today or visit my website, www.ginaclapprood.com

xo

Gina

Oh Hey There 40...I'm Ready for Ya!

So this is it…(dramatic pause here)…the last day of my 30s.  I know that sounds dramatic but I feel like I have learned so much just in this year alone that it’s important to me to document it somehow.  Forty is coming at me fast and furious, part of me is ready, part of me is in denial, and part of me has a half pint left of Ben and Jerry’s Urban Bourbon sitting in my freezer on standby when I’m ready to eat my feelings.  

Anywho, so now I guess it’s time for me to become an adult, a legit, forty-something. I guess now I am supposed to be wiser and more seasoned on certain topics, right?  However, somehow I still feel like I am a twenty-something which makes no sense because I have no interest in going back to my twenties. I must be getting older because I never thought I would say that. Like EVER. I am at the stage in my life where I am looking back and can say that I am so different than who I was at this point ten years ago entering my 30s, and I am actually proud of the person I’m becoming.  

I do feel that as I look back I am trying hard to remember what I have learned over the last 39 years and 364 days.  The ah-ha! Moments, the ups, the downs, and hard life lessons.  At the end of the day, the biggest lesson is: It shouldn’t really matter-just live your life to the fullest and be happy.  I am pretty sure everyone has these moments at some point or another. What matters is what you do about them, take from them and learn from them.

So here is a list of 40 things I have learned along the way about life and/or myself. Maybe you already know all of the things on my list or maybe I can help you to pick up a few new facts before your next birthday.

1. There are not going to be 40 things on this list.  Who has time to read through 40 things?! Not this girl. I don’t even know if I would have 40 things to list here. And 10 years ago, that would have been what I would do, I would have listed 30 things and it would have been all cute and completely predictable of me. 

This almost 40-something has learned that I would much rather not go with the status quo lately.  Do what may be a little unexpected, break the mold, try to be full of surprises.  So maybe I’ll end up listing 8, 19, 34 or 20 things—doesn’t matter. Learn that you don’t need a plan, and wing it sometimes.  I have always had a Plan A, and then a Plan B, and a Plan C on standby.  Now, I am trying to just go with the flow as much as I can.  This has been a hard one for me, especially being a Virgo—but it has been an important one and if you read no further I’m ok with that because I feel that strongly about this one.  

2. Just as important, (and thank you for continuing to read on) your eyebrows really shape your face.  I learned that the hard way when I “accidentally” removed the inner halves of mine when I was like 12.  It wasn’t a good look on me.  Take care of those arches ladies (and gents). It’s one of the first things I notice and I can’t help it.  Guilty as charged. 

3. Growing up my grandmother would always say, “Little girls should be seen and not heard”.  So that’s pretty much how I grew up, kept to myself, observed and listened…until something clicked and I realized that wasn’t me—I should be SEEN and HEARD.  I mean there is a way to do this appropriately, so I suggest when you are seen and heard you do so with class.  Class is important.

4. Speaking of class…you either have it or you don’t. There is no in between.

5. Smile when you feel sad and know that it’s ok to ask for a hug. Try it right now, if you make the biggest smile you can, you will automatically feel happier.  If you are lucky enough to have someone to hug you—really hug you tight and hang there for a few moments—that feeling alone can melt the sadness away.  I can always go for a hug like that. (tomorrow would be a REALLY good day for a hug)

6. I need a lot of different shampoos. NEED not want. That’s just the way it is.  Bad hair day…blame the shampoo of the day.   Switching it up is a good thing…on the daily. My husband doesn’t call me Medusa for nothing, sometimes I put extra bottles in there just to mess with him.

7. I am not a good cook.  I tried. I can try harder. I need to make the time to cook and when I actually do I can be semi-good at it.  But it’s not my forte and I will accept it.

8. This brings me to meal prep.  It’s impossible in my house.  Can’t happen, my savages eat all my food, healthy or not.  So, spending time prepping for the week here just translates to how much can I prepare so that these little animals can eat it all in less than 4 hours.  Not for me.  

9. Hairspray.  I can’t live without it.  Not in a Teresa Caputo way, but if I am going to have any style to my hair—it needs to be held with the spray.  Don’t judge. 

10. Lipstick.  Need I say more? You can never have too many. Don’t leave the house without any on.  Even if it’s a clear gloss, I always have something on.  OK? OK.

11. Amazon Prime Membership is totally worth it.  It can be dangerous, but totally worth it and saves a bunch of time.  

12. You will reevaluate relationships every so often.  There are people that we cross paths with for a reason, a season and for a lifetime.  They will enter your life at different times and you may be surprised just who your absolute true friends are.  When you do, let them know how much you love them and care about them.  If it’s consistently not reciprocated, you will know it’s time to place your energies elsewhere. 

13. Just say the real reason, if you can, that you may need to cancel plans with someone.  Don’t give a lame excuse.  I would rather hear you are broke, don’t feel like it because you had a long day, don’t want to see me, don’t like me anymore, whatever, than get some reason that is obviously not the reason you are canceling.  

14. Read as much as you can. Whatever you want to read, just keep your brain sharp, escape in a book, and learn something new.  I’ve recently started reading again and it’s become my escape and it’s a feeling of accomplishment when you finish a book and can feel the impact it has made on you.  

15. I am not a politically charged person.  I may pay attention, but I will respect your choices no matter what side you are on. Everyone has a right to their opinion. I’ll leave that one there.

16. Whiskey.  Who knew? I used to drink Midori Sours! Ten years ago I never would have thought I would be drinking whiskey when I loved my sugary drinks. And now I love me a good whiskey.  I love the warmth of it and the benefits. Don’t know what they are? Google them…stat! You. Are. Welcome.

17. If you want something, ask for it.  Don’t think that you can’t, don’t hint because people usually don’t pick up on the hints.  Just put it out there. Straight. 

 18. Get a bra fitting. If your bra fits you right, you will see and feel the difference.  After three kids….you can trust me on this one. 

19. Don’t think every new trend and style is for you. If you don’t love the way you look in something and feel you just look “ok” don’t buy it.  Also ask yourself if something is too trendy or if the piece is something classic enough where you will get your wear out of it for many seasons.  Trust me on this. I decluttered and was sick to my stomach when I saw all the trendy clothes that I put in the donation pile. It feels good to donate though but think about your purchases first and ten years from now. 

20. Learn how to say no, let go and let it flow.  Ditch the whole idea of being perfect.  You will disappoint others, yourself included.  It’s normal and part of life. It’s how we learn.  But it’s important to stay true to yourself and do what is right for you-so if saying no to something is what fits best with your desires-by all means do it.  

21. Do not over commit and under deliver. Just don’t. It’s so much better to just say no and leave it at that.

22. If you are thinking of doing something nice for someone-do it.  Don’t OVERDO it. So many times I used to see something that would remind me of someone and want to buy it or mention it, and didn’t because I didn’t want to seem like I was being “too nice” or whatever it may be seen as. These days, if you cross my mind and I see something I will let you know, because life is just too short to not show you I care.

23. Let your kids splash in the puddles after the rain.  (My sister will just love this one) Live vicariously through them with a little bit of reckless abandon.  That kind of happiness is so good for the soul, for them and for you.  

24. Don’t compare your life to anyone else’s.  I can assure you that what you think isn’t always the case about someone almost 100% of the time. Trust me on this. I am the keeper of a lot of secrets and I can attest to this for many of my clients. Life isn’t always what you think it’s like for someone on the outside as it is for them on the inside.

25. Don’t assume. Don’t.  What we create in our heads will destroy us.  Ask questions, communicate with each other and get the FACTS.  Much conflict in relationships can be avoided and resolved if we can eliminate our assumptions about what the other is thinking, doing, why they are not responding back, etc. It’s too vicious of a cycle.

26. Don’t rely on all these popular inspirational books.  I read them myself but I feel it is important to listen to your own inner voice.  Learn what it is that inspires you. Your OWN story.  What is your story? Write that versus reading someone else’s.  

27. Life is hard.  It will challenge you, break you, build you back up.  It’s a roller coaster ride for sure.  It’s up to you to figure out what makes you happy. Live your own moments and relish in the small moments. Someday you may look back and realize they were the big moments. This is the hardest part for me about turning 40, it’s not the whole aging thing or any of that, despite my references to lipstick and shampoo above.  For me, it is that I don’t want to miss those moments that are yet to come. Life IS short, every day isn’t guaranteed and each day we wake up we should remind ourselves of that. (Put the lipstick on though just to be safe)

So, we will leave it there at 27 things. Deep breath, I am smiling because I feel a little sad, I need a hug but I’ve got this. Oh and one more thing…

28. I have learned that you can have TONS of class and drop and F bomb every now and then and it feels really good when you do. (You know you want to drop one right now just because)

And so with that… I’ll accept this and say Eff it…Hey 40! I'm Ready for Ya! Let's do this! (Let me just finish my Urban Bourbon first)

Xo, Gina

Significant as the 'G' in Gina

Recently what has been coming up for me is the sense of feeling insignificant, despite my attempts to take care of myself and put myself first.

I posted something the other day that said, “Today I am going to be as useless as the ‘G’ in Lasagna”. That’s actually what prompted me to think about this post and write about how I was feeling. I am certainly not feeling useless.  But can identify with that insignificant ‘G’ in lasagna.  It’s like the ‘I’ in Gina. Not really necessary but makes the word look a lot better.  Or on the flip-side, there are the a$$holes that will tease me and call me G (long I sound) na-knowing how much I hate it. Then by all means that letter's gots- to- go.

Anywho....back to the G. Who the hell am I? Why am I feeling insignificant? I mean I know I have the peeps that love me, care about me—who are my PEOPLE.  The ones that really want to see me, spend time with me, and listen to what I have to say and not rush through our time together. 

Not sure.  I try to make plans and it’s like everyone is busy—too busy—sure, I’m busy too-but I always give a plan B and follow through.

This feeling has come up at different times in my life –I am pretty sure it’s coming up now because I am coming up on my birthday and per usual, reevaluating the last ten years and gearing up for the next ten. Wanting to hold on to the people around me because I feel like life is so short we never know what the next day will bring.  So morbid I know, but true.

So, here’s a little story. The other night I was talking about hearing that Ben and Jerry’s came out with a new flavor of ice cream. Urban Bourbon.  For this Whiskey Girl-say no more! I need to find it and of course can’t find it anywhere! I was telling my husband how I have been everywhere on a mission to find it and have had no luck. It was just a passing conversation, but an hour later, my eleven-year-old son, Josh, came inside from playing and came up to me to tell me that he was Googling places to see where Urban Bourbon was being sold.  

This kid HEARD me. He was paying attention to me. I am NOT insignificant to him.  It was important to him to try to help me find it and I can’t even tell you how my heart could have burst in a million pieces at that moment.  

And in that moment, it hit me…smacked me right in my gut. I needed to call myself out and realize that this feeling of whatever the hell I was feeling is -

Bullshit.

I’m not insignificant. No one can make me insignificant – or feel insignificant – except for me.

It’s true. It’s not anyone’s responsibility to make me feel more important.  It’s mine – and mine alone. I mean a little love from you would be helpful—but it all stems from me and my perception.

If I’m feeling invisible, it’s not because others aren’t seeing me. It’s because I’m not seeing me. I am allowing others to make me feel the way I am feeling versus letting them know that I miss them, want to see them, spend time with them.  Or I need to let them go.

I am not going to become invisible to myself. I am certainly not invisible to my son who was paying attention to the little details of my conversation last night.

I become significant by seeing myself. All of me-the good, the bad(ass), and the ugly – the joy and the pain, the laughter and tears.  The real me. 

When I see me, others see me.

When I see me, it doesn’t matter if others see me.

So, I will strive see myself as significant as the G in Gina.

(And I AM going to find that pint of Urban Bourbon)

Xo

Gina

Are you GROWING? Tips for Living Up to YOUR Potential

Are you GROWING? I'm not talking about the new heels you bought, I'm asking are you really growing? Like are you mentally growing in your way of thinking, in your friendships, in your work, in your capacity? Are you living up to your full potential every day?  Honestly, I would love to meet someone that can say they do.  I think we can all aim to, but we definitely can strive to, and I believe that is more than half the battle. My goal for this year is to not waste time, clog my mind on pointless flicking of social media and be absolutely intentional about my days-as much as possible.  This is what I plan to do and what I believe will help us grow and live up to our potential (well at least half way) 1: INTENTION Wake up each morning and BE intentional on WHO you spend your time with. Friendships need to serve you both. You need to be happy around your friends and importantly both offer positivity, a little give and take, plenty of trust and mutual support. This is the making of a solid and long lasting friendship. Not only is our time precious and full but we must take a moment to sit, stop and see if the friendships we have around us are best for us now and moving forward. If you are intentional of who you spend time with, your days will be more positive, productive and efficient. 2: PLAN It may sound like a cliché, daunting and boring word, but it really shouldn’t be. Planning ahead whether it is for setting aside time for yourself to exercise, read a book, a date night with your partner, ensures that you are more likely to actually stick to it.  Planning produces consistency and consistency produces results. 3: CHALLENGE What’s the biggest challenge you have this year and how do you go about dealing with it? Don't wait for it to come around, start thinking how it can shape your year. Are you ready to ask for a promotion in your job; would you like to write, time to date more, meet new friends, run a 5K?  Each year we hear of all these new resolutions but what will be your changing gear this year? Let your mind start the process; write it down and get to it! Challenge yourself for the win! 4: EXPANSION Whether we like it or not every year we WILL change. We will grow, it will either be forwards, backwards or sideways. It’s OK if your path looks different than those around you-do not compare the direction they are going in to your own. You are on your own journey in life. You need to go through your own lessons and expansion. 5: NEVER COMPARE Don't allow yourself to scroll social media comparing the life you have with another person. Remember we all put up our show of the best moments of our lives and your time is valuable; its priceless. We all have our own purpose, our course and our own unique names. As the year rolls on promise that you won't let your imagination take over and think of being someone else. Who you are is more than enough and the level of influence you have on others will grow stronger as you keep on the bright road you're meant to travel. I promise you, if you can follow these steps, you will more than reach your potential and inspire others to persevere when attempting to achieve theirs. And as always, remember to #justkeepclapping Xo Gina

Perseverance = Inspiration

Inspiration is something I value and something that I sometimes struggle with. Not only to be an inspiration, especially to my boys and to others when I can, but to be inspired myself. I find myself challenged everyday with trying to achieve my goals; pushing myself, and always looking for ways to improve, versus just being in the moment and being inspired by it. 


Often, we create goals with the best of intentions. At first, we’re super motivated, then unfortunately, somewhere along the way, our shiny inspiration and tasks to achieve our goals become a little overwhelming or difficult to manage. We may falter, stall, fall flat or completely give up.


Sound familiar?

What I am learning is that inspiration can’t be something that we plan. Why? Because when we set goals it may become hard to achieve them, no matter how much we plan for them, what the execution is and especially if those goals rely on the help of others. We need to rely on our own healthy dose of perseverance. Goals can seem daunting and even unattainable without it.


It is our perseverance that becomes the inspiration.


So, if as adults we have difficulty persevering, how do we inspire our kids to stick through it when the going gets tough? How can I make sure I do my part to teach my boys not to give up during trying times?


First we need to make sure we have their full attention. We need to teach our children to persevere when it comes to their goals. Teach them what perseverance means.

This is what I believe it means:

Persevering means we don’t give up even when it’s hard.

We do not let obstacles get in the way of our goal.

We enjoy the journey and do not get discouraged even if it does not go the way we hoped it would.

We need to lead by example. If they see us working hard towards our goals, it will be easier for them to model it themselves one day, or even take our motivating advice when they need it most. As long as they can see that we are learning something new while persevering in a positive way, modeling is a great way to reinforce our message.


We also need to sit back and let ourselves be inspired by our kids.


The young and inspirational minds of our children can spark something inside our adult minds that reminds us to be a little more creative, (just like when we were kids) and take life a little lighter. Parenthood can be tricky but as much as we’re here to teach them, they’re also here to teach us. As parents, we could even say that we persevere through parenthood. Let’s face it, it’s not always easy and it can be really trying at times, but at the end of the day we all have the same goal of raising our children to be the best they can be.


Let’s hope that they keep the cycle going, crush their goals, adapt and adjust where they need to, persevere and inspire others along the way. Applaud themselves and their accomplishments and as always...#justkeepclapping

xo

Gina