Making Time... Meg's 90 Days

times up (almost)

2007-01-27T17:19:00.001-08:00

88 days come and gone.

Accomplishments? perhaps. Was it worth it? absolutely.

Now it is back to work!

Much work to be done on my site, blogs, client's work, house, etc etc etc.

but this time I will remember to breathe

Day 84 - Where I am and What I Have learned

2007-01-23T06:05:00.000-08:00

Well, I am coming up on my 90 days and just in time. I have found that I have a hard time not working... as I started doing some freelance right away. And in the last 90 days I decided to move from NY to SC, sold a house, bought a house and spent the majority of my "sabbatical" running around talking to attorneys and realtors, electricians and miscellaneous other folks who I never expected to share this time with. It is funny how life changes in just a short amount of time.

I have yet to complete my list, but that is ok. I have learned that some things take time. It will give me things to do as I get settled in my new town. The snow here is Rochester is making climbing a tree and skydiving a little less appealling, but Spring comes quicker in SC, so I am looking forward to completing those tasks soon.

I have been able to spend time with friends. Perhaps not as much as I would have liked, but time nonetheless. Quality over quantity. And I hope to continue that contact after I move. It will be interesting to see with whom I am able to stay in touch. Distance works for some relationships and kills others...

Life has slowed down in the last couple weeks as the turmoil of moving has become a fact. It will re-ignite in the coming weeks as that reality comes into being. For now I am living in my old house surrounded by boxes and things to be packed. A month from know I will be living in my new house surrounded by boxes and things to be unpacked. Same but different.

I have learned a lot, although not what I expected. I had hoped to write my book, or at least put a good dent into it and I can't say that that really happened. I can say that the ideas have solidified and having done this I think that it will be a stronger book. But that is yet to be seen. Time will tell--as it always does.

Thanks for sticking with me on this journey, I will keep you posted as there is more to report. - Meg

The book took a turn

2007-01-16T13:01:00.000-08:00

My latest book took a turn this morning as I was driving around running errands. Up until now I have been thinking of the book as a time management book - and the irony of that was that I was having trouble finding the time to get it written. In a spurt of inspiration today I decided the book I would really like to write is more about relationships - friends, family, spouse, children, coworkers, strangers - geared towards Introverts. ("Hi, I'm Meg" The Shy Girl's Guide to Making Friends, New Contacts and Other Important Relationships) I have been told I need to capitalize on the niche that was carved out by my first book: Confessions of an Introvert-- and since this is where my passion is right now, this makes sense. The focus-refocus has energized my thinking and want of writing. This is a good thing!

On a side note my website has been going through a change-over/update again as I refocus that as well - much work still needs to be done as I added pages and need to re-arrange content, but I am taking bug reports/ideas at meghanwier@meghanwier.com. THANKS -

Meg

Day 77

2007-01-15T19:36:00.000-08:00

Day 77 or so and my 90 day plan is full of new experiences - but none I expected. With an upcoming move, I am learning things about new utility companies, school districts, mortgages, attorneys.... not how I thought my sabbatical would go - but interesting and exciting nonetheless...

Holidays

2006-12-29T20:48:00.000-08:00

Visiting my inlaws at the holidays makes me twitchy.

Very twitchy.

I am fortunate that they are a good family--but the noise! I am barraged by the endless bickering for the sake of being heard, and the general angst brewing amongst them drives the introvert in me crazy.

Coping with the visits with my husband's family is probably the hardest thing that I do and still call "vacation."

Family situations can be rough no matter who the family is, and holidays are filled with the noise and unusual people anyway. I have at this point, several years of these visits under my belt, and I have yet to leave without a stress migrane or cigarette-induced asthma.

So, this year I am writing this book as a coping mechanism. I have also found that the community laundromat is a quiet hideaway--and a place near enough that I can disappear to collect my head, breathe and come back with a bit of refreshed attitude (without being considered "missing" and having the police called).

Here are some ways for you to gather your self and find calm in a sea of chaos (or family):

Walk Away - Walking away for 5, 10, 15...or more minutes during a holiday party, gathering or visit can be just the thing to bring you back to a more social demeanor.

Find a Hiding Place - Just like my laundromat, you should seek out a place to be and relax where people aren't likely to interrupt your quest for calm. I have talked to many introverts who have confessed to using the bathroom at parties as a place to collect themselves in relative quiet. I have been known to do the same (and for almost every lunch period in 9th grade, but that is another story), but as of late, I have been smart enough to scope out a few hiding places ahead of time. The "where" depends in where I am of course, but a little recon goes a long way to finding a more hospitable (and better smelling) place to take a moment.

The Buddy System - A spouse, child, or friend can be a godsend in a tiresome family situation. Give them a heads up and work out a system where they can be your advocate when you need to take a breather. And who is going to be upset if you "need" to take your kid home early!

Take a Call - In this age of ever-connectedness, if you need a little break from the festivities, take (or make) a call. I called my dad to chat the other day in the midst of a particularly stressful holiday gathering. The brief walk outside and the calm of taking to my dad, (who himself understands the stress of large family get-togethers) was enough to allow me to face the rest of the event.

Have a Drink - Your choice on alcohol vs. not. (You will know when to bring out the heavy artillery!) A beverage to drink gives you something to focus on, a reason to get up and walk away to fill your cup, and it can be calming. Just be careful to drink in moderation--for obvious reasons (i.e it scares people when the introvert of the party suddenly gets on the table to dance--trust me).

Those are some basic coping mechanisms for family gatherings. You will undoubtedly develop your own and adjust them to your situation, but remember that it is always better to take the time you need to be social, than to lose your cool with your loved ones, or cause yourself damaging stress.

Day 60

2006-12-29T20:34:00.000-08:00

I am not sure why it seems like I am always trying to catch up. I suppose there must, naturally, be times where I must not be doing what I should be doing. Hmm like maybe this morning when I slept in. I think I made it to 9:30. Not exactly the noon I have been aiming for, but a good amount of time just spent sleeping in. I still have plenty of things left on my to-do list, so maybe it is best that I save that one as a celebration... (sorry - random blogging/thinking).

The house went on the market today. Or at least the sign is in the yard and the info at the real estate agent's. I think it still need to be entered in the website but it is a start. No turning back now. And right on time the water-heater finally went. A new one gets put in tomorrow.

I finished up sending out Christmas cards today. Yes, it is after Christmas. So they are New Year's cards...Merry Holiday. That took the better part of the day, but I feel 100% better for having that done. Also to send out tomorrow are bills, and an over-due Christmas present to a good friend's daughter and one to my sister. Presents are always better after the hustle and bustle of the holidays right?

I got a chance to write a little in Florida. I am not sure how what I wrote will eventually fit into the book, but it was what came out of me at the time, and therefore must be meaningful (or at least that is what I tell myself.)

OMG

2006-12-26T20:39:00.000-08:00

I am so glad to be home! I am back from a week with the in-laws which followed that whirl-wind trip to the Carolinas. I have so much fantastic book material in my head--too bad I'll have to wait for the people responsible to die before I can write it down.

I did get to read a bunch - fulfilling that "read stuff" thing on my list. I know that I have a bunch more things to do on that list, but I will get to them soon!

Sad news in that I didn't get to do the skydiving thing. Yet. I will though!

Happy Holidays all - I am off to bloggity blog blog. Much work to be done on that and the www.MeghanWier.com site tonight.

Day 49

2006-12-18T19:00:00.000-08:00

I think I have figured it out... it is day 49. I am doing better today and getting ready to do the Florida thing -- maybe I will check out the skydiving situation in Tampa :)

Day 36

2006-12-06T11:36:00.000-08:00

Today is a half work, half home day, but mostly I havent gotten anything in either place done. BUT--that is all about to change as I have found a comfy place in a local Panera bread to write. This Panera is different than the other and a little farther out. Good floor plan. Music is a little loud, but so far I give it 4.5 stars for book-writing locale.

I have spent a lot of time in the last 36 days trying to figure out what time is, and how best to manage it. I gave up my 40 and hour a week (sometimes more) job and still I find that I am not getting every done I would like. It is curious how life fills in the gaps like that.

And so I have been investigating this. Because I would hate to think that the couple hours a week that I have seemed to clear up are the only hours that weren't booked when I was working full-time. That means that I was only devoting a few real hours to working as a Vice-president of a company. And I know that it took a lot of time - so....I must have filled it up w/ other stuff. What could that be, I ask myself... here is the list so far:

I have noticed that I am being less inconveniencing to others. I try to drive to them, or go father if I am meeting someone to accomodate them. In fact today I think I spent a whole hour in the car that I wouldn't have otherwise. In this case I think this use of time is good. I was taking advantage of other people a bit in my hurried busy life. And if I can help them out by coming to them or meeting them someplace more convenient...or even hanging the meeting times, that is a lifestyle change I can make right now.

I did spend a fair amount of time planning the parties for my son and father over the last few weeks. Again, time well spent.

I have been catching up w/ old friends, via phone, email or in person. This has been a good thing too.

Shopping - it is the holidays, and naturally I have been shopping. Tis the season.

Writing for Ellie - that is about 6-8 hours now.

And I would like to say that the house work is getting done. (But it isn't).

I am still just as tied to my computer in the evenings as I was before. I seem oddly unable to disconnect as the laptop is some sort of security blanket--a connection with the outside world. Perhaps I fear that without it I will become dull and old--missing the technology trends and the ability to track aircraft, weather all over the world, the stock market, the latest pictures of Britney Spears... I need to find a better way to deal with this addiction. Since as with most addictions, I feel that I do not need any help, that I have it under control, and yet, if I look at it realistically, there is no need for me to check my book rankings on Amazon every day...let along 15 times a day. Email can be read a few times a day, not every time something comes in. The flights, even if I am picking someone up, need only be checked right before I would leave in case the plane has been delayed.

So many of us are like this. Letting that connection with the world via the Internet control us, instead of controlling it. Having this technology and the ability to use it are a blessing and in some cases vital to our jobs and lives, and yet in so many ways it has taken over. Perhaps some new technologies will come along and actually allow us to disconnect and still feel connected.

I am working on that now. In my free time.

- Meg

33, 34, 35

2006-12-05T16:49:00.000-08:00

Ok - so Saturday was more than just a party for my son - although - I wasn't going to say that in a blog until after Saturday - in that the second part of the day was a surprise retirement part for my father... (check throw big party off my list). It was a fun time and there were a ton of people there. I hope that my Dad wasn't too overwhelmed by the whole thing.

On Sunday, I held my little tea party. I didn't have everyone there I would have liked - but I had a nice turn-out for a little "girl-talk."

After that I still had my sister in from out of town, and she and her husbad didn't leave until Monday afternoon. So now (Tuesday) I am just getting my head back into the "stuff" I need to do.

I also did get new pictures taken. I wish I had been standing up straighter, but the graphic artist should be able to turn 1 of the 12-15 shots into something - or at least use photoshop to make me look good. She will be adding the pics into to the website modifications soon - and I can't wait to see it.

Today I met with long-time friend Roosevelt on his European basketball camp and the needs he has there web-wise. Also met with the folks from Quality Recruiting... nice people there and hopefully I will be able to work with them a bit. Then (after I went to get my tan and sat at Starbucks to write for 45 minutes... afterall, I have priorities now), I talked to Dr. Ellie Phillips and we had a phone meeting with a CRM salesperson ablout organizing the data from the Zellies sales. I have been working on that Dr Ellie blog now for a few weeks and it is getting close to being something we can promote.

All in all, today may have been the day I went back to work. I know I am only 35 days into my 90 days of "sabbatical" - however, I seemed to work pretty hard today. My next steps career-wise are really starting to gel and I am acting and being more of a web consulant and web content writer. It is a good place for me to be, as long as I can keep enough business without getting overly bogged down as I have a tendency to do. Also, this is a good career decision given that I am looking to move, and I will be able to take this with me.

On that I ordered business cards today. Since 3 times today they would have been handy - so I figured for the couple bucks, it was time. I suppose it makes it official. My accountant is going to love that...

Anyhow - I need to update my list so here it is currently:

) Skydive
2) Sleep til noon (or at least stay in bed!)
3) Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast-----Done- it was really yummy. Then I got a stomach ache, which probably explains why people don't eat ice cream for breakfast. So I have marked this one done, and gone back to eating ice cream at night.
4) Climb a mountain-----Need to plan a trip to Denver
5) Get a great tan-----Happy to report I am getting golden!
6) Golf-----Talked to Kelly, I may try to visit her in Florida after Jan 1st and go then
7) Feed the poor-----Thanksgiving attempt failed - working on try #2
8) Throw a tea party-----Done!
9) Drink water every day-----Started!
10) Be a vegetarian... for at least a month-----Failed first attempt - start over December 1--so far so good
11) Learn to cook a fish meal (see above)
12) Read something new and interesting every day---started
13) Keep flowers in the house (Stop and smell the roses)-----Started!
14) Go to museums-----Started
16) Start a Starbucks fund with my change... so that I don't feel guilty about my Chai Latte habit.-----Started!
17) Get in great shape-----Got 1 month gym membership - and Ive gone a couple times
18) Get organized----getting there
19) Eat the best meal ever
20) Memorize a poem
21) Visit my Grandparents-----Flight booked
22) Roll down a grassy hill on my side
23) Climb a tree
24) Plant a tree
25) Swim a mile
26) Play poker
27) Be the kind of person that sends out notes----sending like crazy!
28) Declutter the house---working on it....
29) Have a picture taken of myself that I like---maybe I have it!
30) Make the bed more often
31) Be the kind of person who sends cards (wait isn't this redundant??)
32) Keep the car clean----so far so good
33) Finish Projects-----finished beading project the other night - need to get on scrapbook projects
34) Be available for friends and family who need me
35) Figure out next career step---getting there
36) Write 2nd Book
37) Throw retirement party for Dad
38) Grow my nails--and keep them nice for at least 30 days
39) Play HORSE with current or former professional basketball player
40) Get son on regular bedtime schedule
41) Paint

Days 31, 32

2006-12-02T05:11:00.000-08:00

I worked out the other day. I am here to report that is WAS effective. And if it wasn't, the bike ride afterward was...we are starting day 2 post work-out and I still can't walk.

But no time today to complain, I have to be super-mommy to my just 3-year-old. His "Nemo Party" is today and I have to get the balloons, food, people, games, etc. organized. It will be a long day for various reasons, but it has been nice to focus my now psudo-unemployed self on something other than tying to write.

--speaking of which, I need to go post something on the Ask Dr. Ellie Blog for Ellie before the day gets away from me.

I do need to update my things list to include "play more board games" - did some of that yesterday... and maybe "win at least 1 board game in my life"--which I have yet to accomplish. Maybe board games aren't made for introverts... hmmmm there is a new product concept...

- you would think that someone who is well-read and introspective would be decent at trivia pursuit but no...I knew all the answers to everyone else's questions-just not mine. Performance anxiety or something...

on the list: I need to get that re-updated. My sister has started a list too - so now there is competition to get it done...

My new things for today: Throw a HUGE party! - and maybe get a good picture taken... There should be plenty of picture-takers.

- until later... - Meg

29, 30

2006-11-30T06:58:00.000-08:00

Lovely day yesterday.

Today I am thinking that instead of writing a book on surviving stress, living a good life, etc. I should write a book reviewing the best places to write a book.

Panera Bread - Henrietta, 4 Stars. :)

It seems that my head is more into the observational than the self-help/healing genre today. Again. But really, this is a lovely place to write. Merci du croissant, il était délicieux.

Day 28 Continued

2006-11-28T16:34:00.000-08:00

I did go to the gym, although I certainly am not setting any records on that treadmill...I'll let you know if the free weights were at all effective - when (and if) I can't lift anything tomorrow...

Went to the tanning booth today too. At 12 minutes every 3rd or 4th day, I am certainly not going to be mistaken for anything but a tan (ish) pale Irish girl... but the tan is coming along... supplimented of course with a self-tanner - I like living danerously, but not too dangerously...

I looked at places to go sky-diving, and may schedule that tomorrow for a trip I am taking to SC. Where I also will visit my grandparents, and get 2 things from my list taken care of on the same trip. However, I was gently reminded by a friend that it is customary to run these things by one's spouse (as in when taking a leap out of a plane, it may be best to have informed the father of your child...) So--I'll keep you posted on that one.

Made some baskets at Brambleberry Barn today to help out Kelly. Fun. And I have to get the house clean for company. That is a total change of pace from a month and a half ago. But my days are going quick... the book is not getting written very quickly, but maybe after monday I will have some more time to focus on that...maybe.

25, 26, 27, 28

2006-11-28T16:33:00.000-08:00

Wow, I can't believe it has been so many days since I last wrote this blog. Bad Meg...

Tuesdays have traditionally been my most productive day. I do not know why exactly, but this day is following that trend. I am at my favorite coffee place enjoying a pirated WiFi signal - while low, it is working. Love that.

Talked to my graphic designer about my new site modifications today. I like the direction it is going with the new colors and minor graphical updates. I also sent ger a proposal for some SEO-related web consulting. That should be fun - and since we are working in trade, it will help to pay for the updates to my site.

Talked to a nice guy in the Starbucks a little while ago. Apparently we are both regulars. He noticed, but I did not. :) Anyway, he says that I am in a lot and we chatted for a while about writing and our respective careers, and I avoided getting into the fact that as an introvert I do not talk to strange men in coffee shops. It just didn't seem to be the thing to do at the time. Maybe he will figure it out next time... nice guy, sells plastics in Canada.

Talked to my friend about taking an updated picture for my site - tentatively scheduled for Thursday--although that will be a busy day.

I did some writing today, although this blog is already getting longer than my book writing. Perhaps I will get back to that later this afternoon. Perhaps.

Well - I am off to the gym. Getting in shape was one of those goals and since I am not doing a stellar job on the rest of them--I might as well see if I can get one of them accomplished.

Til later,
Meg

Comments

2006-11-28T16:30:00.000-08:00

I got a comment today on this blog and I thought I would share it and my response here, since it is a little buried...it attemps to explain my introversion to an apparent non-believer. Attempts and fails as I read it over, but that is fine too. Life is too short to worry about such things. - meg

22, 23, 24

2006-11-24T18:23:00.000-08:00

To build a stronger better, more effective you, you need a good foundation. That foundation will be what you will retreat to when the world crumbles around you.

No matter how together we are, sometimes things just don’t go our way. Whether it is a death in the family, an illness, an unexpected job change, or just a string of bad luck, there are times when we are shaken down to the core. That is why making sure that that core is strong and resilient is imperative—even when the stars are aligned and life is going great.

At my core I am an artist. I appreciate the beauty of life, the details, the feel and the texture of life. When I am busy—really busy—I know that I am losing touch with my core when I don’t, or can’t appreciate the beauty and the art that is woven into my every day.

Days 20 and 21

2006-11-21T06:48:00.000-08:00

Yesterday - Got house in order, went shopping, made xmas presents with Nate. Note to self: Nate does not yet have patience for crafts lasting more than 7 minutes.

Today - Writing day. Meeting Day. Talking to Realtor day...

Here is the Introduction to THE BOOK WITH NO NAME

INTRODUCTION

“You will never find time for anything. If you want time you must make it.” – Charles Roberts Buxton

Have you ever thought that if only you had another day—or even another hour you may actually get caught up on all the stuff on your to-do list? Do you feel constantly overwhelmed and unable to complete anything, or do anything well?

I suspect that it happens to most of us at one point or another. And fact of the matter is, we do it to ourselves. There are so many things we try to squeeze into our lives sometimes, that it is unreasonable to think that we can get them all done.

Now, I am sure you are thinking, “oh yeah, I’m busy. So busy I won’t be able to read a book about how to be less busy!”

I understand. And that is why, as I will show you later in the book, there is good multi-tasking and bad multitasking. I recommend this book be carried with you and read doing the following activities:

While in line at the bookstore. Buying this book now? While you are waiting in line to make the purchase, you can probably read the whole introduction!

While going to the bathroom (#2 of course). There isn’t too much else that can be done here. Might as well get some reading in.

During Commercials. Watching a TV show in real time? There are approximately 2 minutes of commercials at every break. That is enough time to read about 2 pages.

Waiting for your PC to Boot up, (or run a virus scan). Keep the book handy, so during those inconvcenient computer slow-downs, you can still get something done.

While you are refraining from using the "approved electronic devices." Prior to being told you can use your laptop, or PSP on board a plane, this book is the perfect way to kill 20 minutes.

While Cooking Food in the Microwave. Most things take 2-4 minutes to cook in the microwave. Take the time to read a page or two.

Before the Meeting Starts. We area society of meetings--but don't let that time before the meeting starts, or while waiting for someone to show up be wasted. Read!

-----so I am accepting other suggestions on times to read... or feedback on the above. Let me know - thanks - Meg

Day 18

2006-11-18T19:15:00.000-08:00

Went to a kids b-day party, went grocery shopping, had dinner w/ mom. Nice day.

Day 17

2006-11-17T19:03:00.001-08:00

ok the workout worked.
Drank the red wine
finding myself
relaxing
being there for others
having trouble finding someone who needs help Thanksgiving...
spending time with my important people.
writing... a little

Days 16, 17

2006-11-17T05:39:00.000-08:00

Things are going well with my "break." Yesterday I met with a friend who suggested that I Consider business coaching as my next career. That is an interesting option that I am going to pursue a bit. I also worked out at the gym again. I ran 1 mile - 12 minutes, and did weights. I was only there about 30 minutes but if the stiffness I woke up with is any indication, I did a decent job. Now if only I can combine the time I spent the other day with the actual exercise. Still tying to do the xylitol thing. So as far as my health-related goals, I am doing well.

Here is the list so far:

) Skydive
2) Sleep til noon (or at least stay in bed!)
3) Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast
-----Done- it was really yummy. Then I got a stomach ache, which probably explains why people don't eat ice cream for breakfast. So I have marked this one done, and gone back to eating ice cream at night.
4) Climb a mountain
-----Need to plan a trip to Denver
5) Get a great tan
-----Happy to report I am getting golden!
6) Golf
-----Talked to Kelly, I may try to visit her in Florida after Jan 1st and go then
7) Feed the poor-----Have info, need to call monday
8) Throw a tea party
-----Planned!
9) Drink water every day
-----Started!
10) Be a vegetarian... for at least a month
-----Failed first attempt - start over December 1
11) Learn to cook a fish meal (see above)
12) Read something new and interesting every day
13)) Keep flowers in the house (Stop and smell the roses)
-----Started! Bought Beautiful mini-roses
14) Go to museums
-----Started
16) Start a Starbucks fund with my change... so that I don't feel guilty about my Chai Latte habit
.-----Started!
17) Get in great shape
-----Got 1 month gym membership - and Ive gone a couple times
18) Get organized
19) Eat the best meal ever
20) Memorize a poem
21) Visit my Grandparents
-----Flight booked
22) Roll down a grassy hill on my side
23) Climb a tree
24) Plant a tree
25) Swim a mile
26) Play poker
27) Be the kind of person that sends out notes
28) Declutter the house
29) Have a picture taken of myself that I like
30) Make the bed more often
31) Be the kind of person who sends cards
32) Keep the car clean
33) Finish Projects
-----finished beading project the other night - need to get on scrapbook projects
34) Be available for friends and family who need me
35) Figure out next career step
36) Write 2nd Book

Days 12, 13, 14, 15

2006-11-15T07:00:00.000-08:00

I had a great weekend of spending quality family time - that was nice and I have continued my buying spree...

Yesterday, I went to the gym and did the stationary bike for an hour. It was nice to get to the gym and do that, but I recognize that I really should have worked harder. I kind-of took it easy... tomorrow!

On the better health thing - I went to one of Ellie Phillips' "clean white teeth" seminars last night. Now I am a fairly skeptical person, but I learned a lot last night that makes really good sense. Ellie's dental system is just a good idea - it is simple and I can't wait to start seeing the results for my teeth, my son, my bones (xylitol helps strengthen the teeth as well as the bones - great for those prone to osteoperosis), and my overall health. Hopefully I can help Ellie get the word out with the blog that I am doing for her now (http://askdrellie.blogspot.com) and the books that we want to start writing. I am a believer now... who would have thought!

The house continues to slowly get organized. I have to get a bunch of stuff done today as well - but progress is being made. I have to get writing now for the next 45 minutes - so more later.

Meg

Day 11

2006-11-11T15:38:00.000-08:00

Started x-mas shopping today and paid the deductible on my car repair ($500) - so I am officially poor. I have however gotten a little side work from some friends. Hopefully I can at least plug up the hole, even if I can't repair it. Being unemployed, as "romantic" and freeing as the idea may be, may be a bit tough on the pocketbook.

1) Skydive
2) Sleep til noon (or at least stay in bed!)
3) Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast
-----Did the other day - it was really yummy. Then I got a stomach ache, which probably explains why people don't eat ice cream for breakfast. So I have marked this one done, and gone back to eating ice cream at night.
4) Climb a mountain
-----Need to plan a trip to Denver
5) Get a great tan
-----Got membership at tanning place for 3 months!
6) Golf
-----Talked to Kelly, I may try to visit her in Florida after Jan 1st and go then
7) Feed the poor
-----Have info, need to call monday
8) Throw a tea party
-----Ordered invites and confirmed that my sisters and Kelly can come
9) Drink water every day
-----Started! But the water heater is on the fritz or something so all the water in the house is coming out brown... (yuck)
10) Be a vegetarian... for at least a month
-----Failed first attempt - start over December 1
11) Learn to cook a fish meal (see above)
12) Read something new and interesting every day
-----Today it was articals about time management online
13) Keep flowers in the house (Stop and smell the roses)
-----Started! Bought Beautiful mini-roses
14) Go to museums
-----Started, went to Children's museum last week, thinking about doing art gallery this week
15) Play paintball
16) Start a Starbucks fund with my change... so that I don't feel guilty about my Chai Latte habit.
-----Started!
17) Get in great shape
-----Got 1 month GYm membership
18) Get organized
19) Eat the best meal ever
20) Memorize a poem
21) Visit my Grandparents
-----Booking flight tonight
22) Roll down a grassy hill on my side
23) Climb a tree
24) Plant a tree
25) Swim a mile
26) Play poker
27) Be the kind of person that sends out notes
28) Declutter the house
29) Have a picture taken of myself that I like
30) Make the bed more often
31) Be the kind of person who sends cards
32) Keep the car clean

Days 8,9,10

2006-11-10T08:58:00.000-08:00

Been busy - or not focus or something. Here is what I have been up to.

Bookstore (story) – OBSERVING OTHERS.
In an effort to find the perfect place to write this book I found myself on this day in a bookstore. The bookstore is a large chain, the kind that sells coffee and snacks and has gooshy chairs and more books than you could possibly ever read.
I have been here many times but never sat here to work or read. I have always just come in to buy a book, and today I found that I was missing something vitally important to my well being by not having done this sooner.
I am upstairs in a little corner spot and there are about 7 chairs scattered about. They are the worn chairs that strangers and moms with small children have frequented. There is an older man working away, reading a text book of some sort, calculator in hand. The man is working hard, obviously, but about every 5 minutes his eyes droop and he takes a little nap. His naps are short. I am not even sure he knows he is asleep. Perhaps it is not sleep but deep thought. The kind that can only be done with eyes closed. His chair is faced slightly out.
Across the way is a woman, perhaps in her 30’s. She has moved the chair clear across the area so that she can watch people, I suspect. She not only moved her chair, but another one as well. They sit slightly facing eachother away from the rest of the chairs. It seemed as if she was meeting someone as she had draped her coat over one and sat in the other. But as I have been observing her she has not had any company. I assume this was her attempt to not seem alone, but remain so.
One older woman who has the wizened look of a nun, (I have a keen, but unexplainable sense for nuns) has set her chair square to the wall, looking out to the window, at a dreary, grey early winter day.
There are others here, all together, all not together. All with different senses of the environment we have chosen. I find this place a perfect place to think. The people here have stories. I can watch them. (As I wrote that, one woman got up, and another swooped down on her spot, moving both the chair and the side table 90 degrees… how interesting that it is socially acceptable to move the furniture about so in a bookstore!)
These people are a microcosm of the greater society. They have each determined their best environment. A change in the direction of a chair, the proximity to others, the available accompanying furniture.
For me I never thought to move my chair. I am not the type of person that moves chairs around I suppose. I found an open spot and was pleased that the window ledge nearby was at the right height for my cup of tea. I am glad I suppose that this spot gave me a vantage point that would allow me the pleasure of people watching. I am glad that despite the size of this place, and the obvious number of customers milling about, it is fairly quiet. I can think here. I have things to think about.
So what does this experience tell me, and more importantly, you about environment? Inspiration, efficiency and effectiveness can all be affected by where you are, your comfort and the other environmental factors. I have always prided myself on my ability to multi-task. Even on the basic level, I almost always do whatever I am doing with the TV on. Yet there is no television here and I am able to think and write and read more than I have in days. Being here gives me a sense of connection with people, and yet they are not a distraction. I am able to witness the fluid orchestration of people in, and out, moving things about, unique and interesting, without having to stop. (Sleepy old guy just packed up and left. His chair sits empty)
In order to find the proper environment we need to know what works for us. And then we need to reproduce that environment in the places that we work and live. (Young woman just walked up to take old guys seat, interestingly, she did not move it).
If I work best in a place that is busy, but not intrusive. Populated but quiet, I will need to look at my office and my home to see if these places work for me in this way too.
Where do you thrive?

Oh--- and I have Cashew Chicken at Golden Pheonix yesterday... I am no longer a vegetarian.... oh well :)

Day 7

2006-11-07T18:49:00.000-08:00

Worked out 45 minutes
No meat - still alive
3 great meetings with some nice people
Not writing enough
Not reading enough
Did set up 30 day gym membership...
Ordered Tea Party invites

Day 6

2006-11-06T19:11:00.000-08:00

Worked out 30 min this morning. wrote a little about to read, no meat. Went shopping for thyme - apparently thyme is out of season. Some irony in that...

Day 5

2006-11-05T18:42:00.000-08:00

A happy Sunday of hanging out at home. I bought a new book and talked to the store manager at Waldenbooks in the mall about a book signing. I was able to write a bit today. Sometimes having something to read makes it easier to write.

I also worked out an hour today and drank my water. I am about to book a flight to visit my grandparents and I went shopping for a new water heater. Now the water heater thing isn't on the list - but it is important to the water drinking thing as right now all water is coming out icky from the tap.

ick.

Here is where I am so far:

1) Skydive
2) Sleep til noon (or at least stay in bed!)
3) Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast
-----Did the other day - it was really yummy. Then I got a stomach ache, which probably explains why people don't eat ice cream for breakfast. So I have marked this one done, and gone back to eating ice cream at night.
4) Climb a mountain
-----Need to plan a trip to Denver
5) Get a great tan
-----Got membership at tanning place for 3 months!
6) Golf
-----Talked to Kelly, I may try to visit her in Florida after Jan 1st and go then
7) Feed the poor
-----Have info, need to call monday
8) Throw a tea party
-----Need to look into invites...But I started putting things together - looking at Sunday December 3rd
9) Drink water every day
-----Started! But the water heater is on the fritz or something so all the water in the house is coming out brown... (yuck)
10) Be a vegetarian... for at least a month
-----2 days and counting...
11) Learn to cook a fish meal (see above)
12) Read something new and interesting every day
-----Today it was articals about time management online
13) Keep flowers in the house (Stop and smell the roses)
-----Started! Bought Beautiful mini-roses
14) Go to museums
15) Play paintball
16) Start a Starbucks fund with my change... so that I don't feel guilty about my Chai Latte habit.
-----Started!
17) Get in great shape
-----did 1 hour on the elliptical today!
18) Get organized
19) Eat the best meal ever
20) Memorize a poem
21) Visit my Grandparents
-----Booking flight tonight
22) Roll down a grassy hill on my side
23) Climb a tree
24) Plant a tree
25) Swim a mile
26) Play poker
27) Be the kind of person that sends out notes
28) Declutter the house
29) Have a picture taken of myself that I like

Day 4

2006-11-04T20:08:00.000-08:00

I have spend most of the day taking it easy at home. My new change of pace is nice but I feel like I am not getting enough done.

And I'm not.

I have started to write, although I am not entirely sure how the next book will come together yet. I think I am suffering a little from writer's block. So I have decided just to write... thoughts ideas, one foot in front of the other and trust it will come together.

If I recall correctly, it takes 25,000 words minimum for a book to be published like I did last time. Also, I do have the option to go with a traditional publisher this time...But I will need the table of contents and a chapter or two. So that has been my main focus. But I still need to work on my list.

Here is where I am today:

My list to date:

1) Skydive
2) Sleep til noon (or at least stay in bed!)
3) Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast
-----Did the other day - it was really yummy. Then I got a stomach ache, which probably explains why people don't eat ice cream for breakfast. So I have marked this one done, and gone back to eating ice cream at night.
4) Climb a mountain
-----Need to plan a trip to Denver
5) Get a great tan
-----Got membership at tanning place for 3 months!
6) Golf
-----Talked to Kelly, I may try to visit her in Florida after Jan 1st and go then
7) Feed the poor
-----Have info, need to call monday
8) Throw a tea party
-----Need to look into invites...But I started putting things together - looking at Sunday December 3rd
9) Drink water every day
-----Started! But the water heater is on the fritz or something so all the water in the house is coming out brown... (yuck)
10) Be a vegetarian... for at least a month (starting tomorrow?)
11) Learn to cook fish (see above)
12) Read something new and interesting every day
-----Today it was articals about time management online
13) Keep flowers in the house (Stop and smell the roses)
-----Started! Bought Beautiful mini-roses
14) Go to museums
15) Play paintball
16) Start a Starbucks fund with my change... so that I don't feel guilty about my Chai Latte habit.
-----Started!
17) Get in great shape
-----I haven't touched that Elliptical yet...
18) Get organized
19) Eat the best meal ever
20) Memorize a poem
21) Visit my Grandparents
22) Roll down a grassy hill on my side
23) Climb a tree
24) Plant a tree
25) Swim a mile
26) Play poker

Getting in Shape

2006-11-03T17:33:00.000-08:00

One of my goals is to get in shape. But being in "the best shape of one's life" is one of those things that people say they want every year around New Years, or before a reunion or wedding.

In all honesty 90 days is not a lot of time, and I am 3 days down already with no exercise to speak of.

Lucky for me...I have never been in great shape so the "best shape of my life" really won't be that bad. (right?)

So how does one go about measuring the best shape? Well, weight or inches don't really mean too much. But last May I ran a duathlon. Now there is a longs story... but my times were:

31.52(Pace - 10:17) - 3.1 miles
1:01:12 (Pace - 13.6) - 13.8 miles
28.36 (Pace - 9:14) - 3.1 miles

Now what does that mean? 1) I ran faster after running and biking... weird - and 2) my times are really not that outstanding. But doable! I need to be able to run a sub 9 minute mile. I would like to find another duathon to run around the spring.

So how am I going to do it? Get my butt on the elliptical ASAP - and maybe get a gym membership?

Day Three

2006-11-03T15:57:00.000-08:00

It was a decent day - although primarily it was a functional day filled with catching up on laundry and house work. That said, I have not been able to do that as of late, so I can feel that the day was a success in that regard. A total change of pace from where I was. I do need to get going on the writing of this book. The concept is good, but I have yet to figure out how to pull it together. Maybe I can get some of that done this weekend.

My list to date:

1) Skydive
2) Sleep til noon
3) Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast
4) Climb a mountain
5) Get a great tan
-----Got membership at tanning place for 3 months!
6) Golf
7) Feed the poor
8) Throw a tea party
-----Need to look into invites...
9) Drink water every day
-----Started!
10) Be a vegetarian... for at least a month (starting tomorrow?)
11) Learn to cook fish (see above)
12) Read something new and interesting every day
-----Today it was Magazines about South Carolina
13) Keep flowers in the house (Stop and smell the roses)
-----Started! Bought Beautiful mini-roses
14) Go to museums
15) Play paintball
16) Start a Starbucks fund with my change... so that I don't feel guilty about my Chai Latte habit.
-----Started!
17) Get in great shape

New Headshot.... for the book?

2006-11-03T14:59:00.000-08:00

On a whim yesterday I had my headshot taken. I had been talking about updating my website, and it got me thinking that my last headshot was a little dated.

So I had this one taken. Here is what I think:

A) My roots are bad. After seeing this picture I immediately went out and got my hair colored.

B) See my jowels? When did I get jowels?

C) I should have worn some makeup - I look tired. Tired and plain.

D) This may be the perfect shot for an author... moody, seasoned, unable to keep up on regular hair maintenance.

E) I probably will have another one taken... moody and author-like as it is... I think I am too vain to use this version of me... at least not without some photoshot work!

F) But for the record -- not to vain to post this one on the Internet for the world to see.

Day two

2006-11-02T16:30:00.000-08:00

I ate ice cream for breakfast- it was delicious. Then I got a tummy ache. Maybe that is why people don't eat ice cream for breakfast. Maybe I will try again tomorrow to see if it was a fluke.

I waas gonna try being a vegetarian. But I ate Ham and Bean soup yesterday (mom cooked, I couldn't say no--it was YUMMY) and had a cheeseburger today. Maybe the vegetarian lifestyle isnt for me...

Day 1

2006-11-01T18:20:00.000-08:00

Officially Day 1 of my quest to do and be. Today I flew back from Florida with Nathaniel. I was able to write some and generally it was a good flight. I have added some things to my list, and have to consider that a rather successful start. Goal setting - little stress.

Here is what I have (in no particular order)

1) Skydive
2) Sleep til noon
3) Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast
4) Climb a mountain
5) Get a great tan
6) Golf
7) Feed the poor
8) Throw a tea party
9) Drink water every day
10) Be a vegetarian... for at least a month (starting tomorrow?)
11) Learn to cook fish (see above)
12) Read something new and interesting every day (Today it was the Oprah magazine)
13) Keep flowers in the house
14) Go to museums
15) Play paintball
16) Start a Starbucks fund with my change... so that I don't feel guilty about my Chai Latte habit.

so far

2006-10-30T16:59:00.000-08:00

so far on my list I have:
1) Skydive
2) Sleep til noon
3) Eat Ice Cream for Breakfast
4) Climb a mountain
5) Get a great tan
6) Golf
7) Feed the poor

so I am working hard on my tan today. Not sure what tomorrow will hold. I want to Golf, and I think my friend Kelly can help me with that one - being the expert golfer that she is - and the friend too so she can show me how and oly make fun of me a little bit.

The tan thing is allme, but I am using a self tanner to help it along - I do afterall live in teh North, and it is, to be honest, winter. I will vacation in sunny climates as much as possible between now and February, but I will need to supplement to make it really happen and avoid skin cancer as best as I can.

Climb a mountain is all in my sister Erin's hands I think - I will have to ask her. She does that kind of thing like the rest of us change our socks... hopefully I can figure out a way to get myself out there soon to make that happen.

The plan right now is to work at a soup kitchen on Thanksgiving. I will see if I can make that happen. Maybe Dad's church connections can help me on that one.

There will be more - I have to make sure that my list is a good one of things I truly want to do, but also are meaningful. I figure I will in reality have 150 things on my list when I am done. That way 90 of them will actually get done... wow is that practical of me... guess I am a practical kind of person!

I have great friends

2006-10-30T11:32:00.000-08:00

I have such great friends - the news of my departure from BizNetix is now public and I have received such a nice warm response from my friends and my ex-client/friends. Thank you to all of those people who have taken the time to send a note and offer up a coffee break. Thank you for knowing me and knowing this has not been a light decision - but one made with much thought. Much thought.

That said I hardly ever look back - and the future is bright. And so is the sun here in Florida. On my list of 90 things to do before February... is to get a great tan. Best be getting to that now - I'll be back in cold and snowy Rochester By Wednesday Evening.

...best thing about that is the tiem I will get to spend with those great friends of mine when I get back!!

- Meg
other blog: http://meghanwier.blogspot.com

First Entry - New day

2006-10-29T12:19:00.000-08:00

I have quit my job and begun my new life - this blog will chronicle the next 90 days as I do everything I have always wanted to do but never had time - Comments appreciated.