Buffalo...and beyond

If you've been following the progress of my list you know that exploring a new city was one of the items. I'm happy to say, done and done. I've spent the past couple days in Buffalo, NY. You may be asking...why Buffalo? Well, I needed a place that was within driving distance that we hadn't been to previously and that was still an affordable destination. It seemed a little silly that I've been up this way so many times previously going to Niagara Falls but have never spent any time in Buffalo. I'm glad that I've seen it but I'm not sure that there is anything here that would really draw me back in for a repeat visit.

A trip to Buffalo wouldn't be complete without a visit to the Anchor Bar, home of the original buffalo wings. I'm not a huge fan of wings myself but seeing as we were here I felt I should partake in at least tasting one. Nothing too crazy either, mild for me thank you. It was good. Not sure how much my opinion is worth, coming from someone who typically doesn't eat chicken off a bone. The experience was great. We were surrounded in a room with about 30 HOGS aka bikers. They were so loud and obnoxious. Honestly, it was fantastic. There were about three different groups, they were from Boston, Connecticut and Michigan. Atmosphere complete with a guy singing live Sinatra songs. I, of course, started the festivities with a nice shot of Patron. Mmmm.

Buffalo has a ton of old, historical churches. I mean, really...how does one city support so many churches. They are beautiful. Some actually really amazing. It's just shocking to see another one every few blocks. I rarely visit a city without taking in the museum. We went to the Albright-Knox Art Gallery. I must say...I was a little disappointed. The facility was nice, but the collection was mediocre. We also went to see Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House. It was very Frank Lloyd Wright. Not sure what else to say. It's neat to see it in person but nothing really shocking about it. I suppose it's fitting that the house is here. Buffalo is full of huge, historical homes. I don't recall seeing one new housing or condo development. There also aren't a lot of chains in the city either. The city seems to take pride in running on local establishments.

The highlight of my trip (and another item on my list) was riding in a helicopter. It was a short ride, probably about 10 minutes, but oh so worth it. We drove up to Niagara Falls so the flight was overlooking the falls. I've been to the Falls several times before but seeing it from the sky was really cool. Aside from a quick pit stop in the casino, we didn't spend much time in Niagara Falls. Been there, done that. We headed up a little further into Canada to Niagara on the Lake. If you haven't been here before I highly recommend it. It's beautiful and definitely worth the drive. Crisp and clean air. The restaurants and shops are quaint and there's a nice mix of English and French speaking residents. A great view of Fort Niagara is just over the lake. The town is small so it doesn't require much time as a destination but it's a nice addition if you're up that way already.

Aside from being really sick the whole time, the trip was a great get-a-way. I was slightly disappointed with the bakeries in the area. I had high hopes, but felt that almost everything I tasted didn't live up to the expectation. Not to brag, but....I think a lot of my baking beats what people out there are selling. More motivation to move forward!

The Challenge: Finishing the list in time

I have approximately 6 weeks to finish 20 of the items on my list. I've successfully completed 12. Seems like more. There are some that are in the works but not yet complete. Unfortunately, I'm thinking it's a sure bet that #7 isn't going to happen. If it doesn't, consider it a revised goal to be completed by the end of the year.

I finally finished I Was Told There'd Be Cake, by Sloane Crosely. There were definitely some laugh out loud moments. I'm not sure the book is geared towards the male audience. Females, if you're looking for a light read this summer while at the pool or beach this would be a good one.

I played the lottery. I didn't win. Obviously. Boo! I'd like my $5 back, please.

Any vegans out there....I could use some help planning for my day of animal product deprivation. Suggestions? Would it be inappropriate for us to meet at Dirty Franks while brainstorming this topic? Hmmm...

As for the blind date...I need your help with that too. I can't very well set up my own. (Bob & Brandi, this was partially your idea so I'm holding you accountable.)

Does anyone in Cbus have connections in the news/media industry that could get me up in a chopper? Surely those traffic reporters would like some company.

P.S. Whoever invented the push-up needs a good slap in the face. #justsayin

Relationships

This weekend, I've had more than one conversation about relationships. In fact....it almost seemed to be a theme for the weekend. I won't go into details but I came across this quote tonight which seemed a little ironic.

"Never reject anybody in your life, because good people give us happiness & bad people give us experience. Both are essential in life."

I may need to work on closure and separation in a few relationships but this quote reminded me why I endure some of the things I do.

(I just like the song and video. This seemed like an appropriate post for it.)

Competitiveness...

Competitiveness is a dirty word. Why is being competitive considered by most people to be a strength and a positive characteristic? I'm well aware that this is not a recent development, trait or trend. I'm assuming it's safe to claim the competitive trait has been around for centuries. Honestly, I kind of see it as a turn off. When someone describes them-self with the word competitive, I immediately roll my eyes. There, I said it.

Over the past few months of aggressive employment seeking I've acquired such a distaste for the term. Why is striving to be better than another person encouraged and rewarded in this society? If we're competing against anything or anyone...shouldn't it be ourselves? I am constantly working to become a better version of myself. I'm not motivated by trying to out-perform a friend or co-worker. I think it's unhealthy the way some people thrive on it. If they're not the best, then they're not happy.

I would like to see leadership emphasize the importance of becoming a better version of the existing person and/or business. I have a strong distaste for competitive advertising. Political campaigns and advertisements are the worst. Don't tell me why you're better than someone else. They can turn it right back around on you. Tell me why you're good and if you're not so good at something, tell me what you're doing to improve.

I think I have successfully surrounded myself with friends who possess a strong desire for ambition and success, but not competition. Do what you do and do it well! The motivating factor should never be to simply be better than someone else. You're always going to be better than someone and someone will ALWAYS be better than you at something. Don't waste time and energy worrying about the success and failure of others. Dedicate the resources to within.

The List Update

Insert big *sigh* here. Sheesh...I feel like I should have a lot more items scratched off my list by now. It seems like time is escaping me. I have two months from today to finish the remaining items on my list.

This weekend was productive. Take a dance class, check. I took a hip hop dance class at my gym on Saturday. I'm a gal with little to no rhythm so any kind of dance class is daunting to me, let alone hip hop. The number of nights I've spent in dance clubs could probably be counted on one hand. The class was packed and at the end of an hour the floor was slippery with sweat and the mirrors were steamed up. Nice. Sounds gross...yes. Can't wait to do it again. It was hilarious watching others and knowing how ridiculous I look myself. It was also a great workout!

Moving right along....go ice skating was also completed this weekend. I took my lil' sis and a couple friends joined as well. I am happy to report that it was fall free. Lost my balance often, but zero falls. Let's be real, I didn't get too crazy on the ice. I was a little over cautious to prevent injury but at least I let go of the wall which is more than I can say for some of the people there. Honestly, if it hadn't been so crowded I probably would've spent a little more time trying to improve my skills. Do I want to do it again? Um...honestly...it's not something I would set out to do. If the occasion arises I wouldn't intentionally avoid it. I'm relieved that I've tried it and am over the initial fear of putting on ice skates, walking on them, and getting on the ice. I'm proud of my lil'. It was her first time as well and I know she was nervous but she tried it and that's all I can ask for at this point.

Some people refer to this sort of project as a "bucket list". The list of 32 X 32 is certainly not my bucket list, but rather a small chunk of it. There are items on a grander scale that would be considered bucket list worthy. If you were creating a similar list for yourself, what are some of the items that would be on your list?

Reality Check

Tonight I came home, logged into my email and saw a photo of me taken earlier today. What a rude awakening! In 2006 I started losing weight and was pretty successful for about two to three years. I never reached my ultimate weight loss goal of 100 lbs, but I came pretty close. Unfortunately, over the past year the some weight has crept back on. I haven't gained it all back but definitely more than is acceptable. Damn creepers.

I've been pretty consistent with my workouts but I've clearly lost focus on eating healthy. Eating right has always been a struggle for me. The recent series of events in my life certainly haven't helped. Emotional eating is and has always been an issue for me. I see some people with so much discipline and focus. It is truly admirable. If I had just a fraction of that, it would make such a difference.

Thinking about what I'm writing (and knowing friends may read it) is embarrassing. If you know me then you may know the success I've seen and the struggles I've experienced as well. I'm well aware that I'm not alone in this world when it comes to weight issues so why do I keep hiding behind it. My hope by throwing this out in the blogging universe is to recognize reality, stop hiding, accept it and get back on track. Everyone can clearly see how I look physically and it reflects on the inside as well. If you read other posts you'll see that I'm staying committed to being physically active but feel free to test or quiz me on my nutrition. Also...if you have tips on eating healthy and/or how to avoid emotional/stress eating please share. I know I would appreciate them and I'm sure others may benefit as well.

March'in along

It's been about two weeks since my last 32X32 update. As March is rolling in I have approximately 10 weeks to wrap up the remaining items on my list. I am seeing progress which is exciting. Coincidence that the sun is shining on March 1st? I think not. Good riddance February!

Perhaps the biggest news relates to #2, obtain a paid marketing position/role. I was totally stoked to receive an offer for a SoMe (social media) internship with a reputable light and sound production company. It's not a permanent solution to the problems mentioned in the Heavy post, but it is definitely a step in the right direction. I believe it is going to be a great opportunity and I am anxious to get started.

Bake a pie from scratch, #8 ? Check. This was an interesting experience because I'm learning a lot as I'm trying to start a baking business. After my initial attempt...I'm not sure pie making is an area I would want to specialize in. I would like to keep practicing in the event a client requests a special pie but I didn't particularly enjoy it. Perhaps it's because I don't really like pie. Half of the thrill in baking, for me, is knowing how delicious it will taste when it's done. Pie just doesn't hold that anticipation for me. That aside, a coconut cream pie was made, tasted and served. Done and done.




Push ups. Ugh! While #13, do a set of 50 push ups is not yet complete; I did start a program suggested by a friend. Hundredpushups.com I've finished week one and if I stay on schedule I should be able to complete my goal of 50 push ups by May. If you have a similar goal and hate push ups as much as I do, I would recommend the site. I'll keep you updated on how it's progressing.

Exploring a new city, #6 is in the works as well. Mom and I will be exploring Buffalo, NY in April. It was challenging to choose a location that wasn't too far away, we haven't been to previously and still within our means of available resources. So...Buffalo it is. I'm intending on knocking out #32 as well on this trip. If you've been to Buffalo...any suggestions?

There are several other items from the list that are in progress. Starting a business, writing an article, learning a new language and the design software; these are all in the works. Looking at the list and how many things are left seems a little overwhelming but it keeps me motivated.

How are your new year resolutions coming along? Are you still maintaining? Have you succeeded already or given up?