10 Major Challenges of Writing a Book

I always thought being a writer would be my ideal job, because it comes pretty naturally to me, I enjoy it, and I have a never ending imagination!

It's the toughest thing though. Here's why:

1) You are your own boss - no one is going to tell you when to write and what to write, and the deadline. It's up to you. You have to find that motivation, even when writer's block isn't an issue.

2) Creating a GOOD story is tougher than you think - so you have a plot, you have an outline, but now you have to fill in the details. Or you have the details of your characters, and the world they are in but you have to create a good story, that includes growth of the character and change. Etc. etc. etc. It's amazing what Jane Austen, and the Bronte sister's did. Oh goodness! We still have material - social issues in our world to base our stories on, but their characters development was so well done!

3) Its gonna take time, a whole lot precious time - to do it, to do it, do it right! yeah, so as we grow older we find we have less time. Time begins to slip away so easily. Yet when we are children a day seems to take forever. I wish I had that type of time now. Oh and then there are random chores, obligations that need to be taken care of like an oil change, or cleaning! So making time, and committing time to writing is tough as a grown up adult. Like the saying goes- "health is wasted on the young" so is time!

4) Remembering what you wrote yesterday - few chapters in and you forgot the deets from chapter one, and then 30 chapters in you forgot the details from chapter 15! Creating a timeline, or some sort of organization of characters is important. For instance, I know the world well, and I know my characters, but sometimes I forget what I put in her bag. At the time i put the things in her bag I knew what they were and why they were, but then 4 chapters later, I forget. Kind of like, you have a list of things to tell your significant other at the end of the day, and then you see them and you forget half of it. Then you remember it just when you are both about to fall asleep!

5) Setting deadlines and goals - these are hard to stick to, because of all of the above. So kick it out the window. You'll find that once you do that, you'll be able to write more, and then you'll set a goal, 'I want to finish it by the 20th of Jan'. Then once you set it, it get's tough again.

6) Thinking of Publishing? - these thought or worries rather, come and go; for me, more often than not. Self publish, or find an agent, or approach a publisher? Which one is right for you. I say finish writing, have a manuscript. Edit it twice and then worry about publishing. Maybe do some research in your free time, yes that time which is so hard to come by. I will be posting information on that soon! So stay tuned!

7) Worries of failure - you could be the next JRR Tolkien of JK Rowling or George RR Martin, but it's such a competitive world, and you're better off making video games honestly, cause I rather play video games than write cause it's easier :-P kids today rather play video games than read. There are those who read, but I fear those numbers are decreasing rapidly. Then there are those who write for Movies... aaah! Worries of failing will plague the author, but to write knowing the chance of success is very low, is quite comforting. Accept that and write.

8) Atmosphere from noisy to quiet, finding a balance for writing - so I've always dreamt of writing a novel at a cafe, where there's a fire sizzling, and I got me some hot chocolate. I am brandishing my wonderful ink pen, and writing on some wonderful parchment... scratch that. Over full Starbucks, noisy, Christmas music, no fireplace, and yeah the baristas shouting about. Nope, need to find that ideal setting, yet. It's hard to find a perfect atmosphere or ambiance that nurtures writers. The right amount of noise, as to not being distracting, as well as not to quiet to be creepy. Yes silence can distract me, so I find playlists that inspire but also help keep me focused (so different from my running play list, or driving play list!). Then there's the internet, def don't connect to the WIFI, and if you need to look something up use your phone, keep it to the minimum!

9) Prioritizing writing, life, friends, balancing? Maybe not balanced but being smart about it - writing is important, but if you have a different job that sustains you while you are writing, that should take priority. Then there are life things, as in a friend needs you, friendship is very important, don't ditch your friend, then again a good friend would understand. So setting these priorities and working around them. Sometimes you might prioritize and set up a schedule, that schedule will change! Be flexible. I set time to write, but sometimes it doesn't flow well, until my head hit's the pillow at 11:30 pm and then I get mega-inspired. I have to teach at 8 am the next morning, but I go with the flow and deal with it. Its the only way it's going to get done, sometimes I just write it on note-cards, and try to pick it up later. When I do stay up late to write, I suck it up although i am tired, and I deal with it the next morning, and drink tea and look awesome (somehow) and make sure I teach well (tea does the job for me).

10) Word count goals - so publishers have set an average word count for various genres. Fantasy / sci-fi fiction lands at about 80,000 - 100,000 words. So with length in mind, and matter of course, it's good to pace yourself, and build. Setting a word goal per day/ week is good but eventually I've found that difficult to work with.

Lastly: editing, but since I'm not there yet, I'll leave it for the next blog entry. So stay tuned!
And yes I have not really edited this blog!

:-P

Breathe
(always remember to breathe while writing!)

Remembering Maya Angelou

She is gone, but
Her words live on:

Never make someone a priority when all you are to them is an option.

If you don't like something, change it. If you can't change it, change your attitude. Don't complain.

There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.

I do not trust people who don't love themselves and yet tell me, 'I love you.' There is an African saying which is: Be careful when a naked person offers you a shirt.

We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty.

You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.

My mission in life is not merely to survive, but to thrive; and to do so with some passion, some compassion, some humor, and some style.

Try to be a rainbow in someone’s cloud.

I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.

I love to see a young girl go out and grab the world by the lapels. Life's a bitch. You've got to go out and kick ass.

The love of the family, the love of the person can heal. It heals the scars left by a larger society. A massive, powerful society.

Courage is the most important of all the virtues because without courage, you can't practice any other virtue consistently.

Nothing will work unless you do.

It's one of the greatest gifts you can give yourself, to forgive. Forgive everybody.

I've learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way (s)he handles these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangled Christmas tree lights.

Thank you The Gaurdian for the quotes and info.



Breathe

Chronicles in Running - Part 4: Perfect Conditions

Everyone is different; although the human body is the same for the most part, everyone is different. So we all have our likes and dislikes, what feels good what feels bad. What works for us and our body and what doesn't. What clothes, shoes, bras, underwear, socks, work for our individual body shapes, sizes and types.

In the same respect we each have our ideal preferences for running conditions. I had not realized this but for a good run we have a lot of things that are required. Although one can truly ignore most of these and run anyway, it is but a preference, or makes the run a tiny bit easier. Factors include controllable (controllable by the runner) and uncontrollable factors.

The controllable factors are: 

Sleep - enough sleep the night before is so important. If you only got 5 hours you'll notice the energy is a bit low. One can still run, but it's just a little tougher.

Proper nutrition - eating before a run is not recommended (depending on the distance), but having a bite of a banana or a balanced meal the night before is definitely important. To binge on carbs/ comfort food the night before, doesn't help cause it might increase bloating, lethargy. Although some people think running will help burn that, there might be some logic to that thinking, but a balanced diet always!

Proper hydration - before and during. As you run you get thirsty and by the time you're thirsty you are dehydrated, so it's good to take tiny sips and hydrate before the run.

Bathroom - Frankly, I found peeing and pooping before running, key to my run. In fact, when you have food sitting in your gut, it's harder to run, and almost painful. Pee is not too bad to run with, almost like a motivator to get to the end, however one feels freer to run, after peeing.

Clothing - it's great to have comfy clothing to run in. Including bra, and socks, etc. While running you suddenly realize the bra isn't supportive enough, or it's too tight and hard to breathe in- that can be a problem you don't want to have to deal with. Also clothes weather tight or lose, find something YOU are comfortable running in. You don't want your pants falling off, or your tights riding up your butt crack mid-run. It's easy to deal with, but an annoyance.

Shoes - tie your shoes well, get fitted for your shoes, before your run, so you can avoid blisters, and don't have to tie your laces constantly during the run.

Hair - it helps to have the hair out of your face so you can see.

Other things - it helps to have an insect repellent on (lotion/ oil/ spray) if running in a place with lots of bugs, especially ones that bother/ bite. These can really hinder running. Also lotions and such that prevent chaffing. It can really prevent a lot of pain on a long hot run. Carrying meds or taking meds before the run, ie. if you have seasonal allergies/ asthma, it helps your run ease by rather than struggling to breathe while running.

Uncontrollable factors :

Seasons - the season can affect your performance. You might prefer cooler season (Fall/ Winter), or warmer season (Spring/ Summer) on your body and general like and dislike. I prefer Winter, since there seems to be less chaffing, the sweat doesn't wet the clothes, it's easier to breathe, there are no allergens or bugs. No sun burn. 

Some people prefer Summer, cause there are less layers.

Allergens - in the warm weather allergies are abound, and can affect you, even if you previously had no allergies.

Traffic - there will be places where you run that traffic will be unforgiving, and you just have to look out for yourself. 

Road/ pavement conditions - there may be potholes, cracks, uneven sidewalk conditions on your run, be wary, alert and safe.

Other people's pets - so on your run, other people's animals might come after you, it's kind of scary sometimes. Sometimes they are friendly but others maybe territorial. BE careful, and maybe look up on how to deal with that.

Animals/Insects - Insects can be a real bother, gnats being breathed in by mistake, to being bitten by mosquitoes, flies flying in your face... wear bug spray if you know it's bug season. Animals maybe abound if running on a trail in the woods. Snakes often like to lay in the middle of the trail in summer on a warm sunny patch, watch out don't freak out. Deer, and other animals maybe around depending on where in the world you are running, they may be in the way or might jump out of no where or may run after you, so be wary.

Weather - rain can be a real bother, not only does it make it dull, but you're also wet, the trails get muddy, shoes get wet, not fun. However, it still is a situation we can deal with. Snow is great to run in because it's softer on the knees, but does make it harder if the snow is too deep. Ice is a very bad idea just because it can be slippery and one can fall and sustain injuries. Hail and other forms of hard precipitation can be injurious to the head, so I'd avoid that! Sunshine is great but remember sunscreen!

Terrain - be prepared, and research the terrain you will be running. Wear the right shoes- trail running shoes/ beach running, track, vs. road.

Sounds / noise - you might like your music blaring in the head phones, but I recently love running in the quiet listening to my breathe. Other times I enjoy listening to fellow runners talk! It's one thing we can't control so if you know it's going to be noisy find ear plugs, or head phones (if on an indoor track), otherwise due to safety reasons and road running, definitely use common sense! (one head phone in the ear). 

All things considered, enjoy your run, and remember it's always tough to find the "ideal" condition, place to run in, but eventually you'll get used to all these circumstances, and it's good to learn with all these various circumstances (makes for good stories).

Breathe!

Chronicles in Running - Part 3: My First 5k and more

It was the anniversary of the Boston Marathon bombings. And we were going to run our first 5k here in Cuyahoga Falls. I realized for the first time that I was now joining the "running" community. I realized the amount of training each Marathoner goes through, the mental transformation, physical, emotional... until race day, and beyond. Race day is amazing because there are a 1000 other people who have been training just like you. And we all run along these roads together, whether it's a full marathon or a 5k. We have to start somewhere.

Imagine then all these amazing people who've trained for a few months to a year if not more for a marathon, all together in one place. Their amazing enthusiasm, energy, focus, optimism, or sheer excitement to have FUN  in one place: It's awesome like a party, without alcohol... and everyone is invited. The energy is contagious. The energy helps you run, and carries you further than ever!

And then terror and tragedy strikes. 

It is so unfortunate.

I prayed and sent positive energy to the survivors and victims of the tragedy this past week. They all have amazing spirits!

In the light of their spirit and light, I ran on Saturday, my first ever 5k. It was great, warmer than what I've been used to training in. It was an amazing experience, and worth the many hours of preparation. The last maybe .25 miles of the race I sprinted with whatever was left of me, and I felt like my heart was going to burst. Lesson learned: sprint from a little closer next time!

Ryan, my wonderful boyfriend, had come out to cheer for me. It was so amazing to see him at different places of the track. It made me so happy! Like I felt like I needed to do my best and make not only myself, but him proud too! He was there supporting me, and I needed to do well! I came in 21st in my division, but that was ok, it was my first race!

After the race my parents showed up, they got lost, and they were late. We went for breakfast and ate, and then went home and lay in the sun for hours.

There's a lot to learn from running. I learned that I need to learn how to slowly incorporate drinking water in with my running. I realized Gu is gross! I learned that sunscreen is important for all exposed parts of the body (I forgot my neck and legs- worst tan lines ever!). I learned that young kids who are in the ROTC (Reserved officers training thingy) are so badass! They have to run in uniform, single file, with a pacer, the whole time singing a freaking song! So inspiring. I learned that people who come out and cheer and show support are winners too, for they give so much love.

Running is tough, it requires discipline and dedication. It's requires patience and understanding. There are so many other important things to learn for and from running. Most of all that you have to love running to run. It's difficult at first, but then you love it. (Running in a group really helps  ;-) ).

Recipe: Spinach-Mint Smoothie

So I have been experimenting with Smoothies for breakfast. The first few times, I choose poorly, and I got gassy. Since I follow the "blood type" diet, I decided to use only stuff from the list. Result- no gas. However my body burns through calories now since I run and do weights, it's often not enough, and I need small snacks throughout the day. Looking for yummy snacks.

Till then here's the recipe for my Spinach-Mint smoothie:

1- Apple
1- Banana
1- long Carrot (not those babies carrots)
5- table spoons boiled/ baked black beans
3- stems of mint leaves
15 - 20 leaves of baby spinach
1 table spoon raw/ local honey
1 table spoon grade B maple syrup
2 cups almond milk

Blend!

Enjoy.

(if you add ice, take the almond milk down to 1 cup).

Chronicles in Running - Part 2: Shoes, Socks and Swag

On Sunday we ran 3.7+ miles, that's almost four miles. I had NO idea I could do it. There were some ghastly, killer hills, whom I resent utterly. My body was so tired and sore afterward. The ground (The Ohio-Erie Towpath Trail) was very bumpy since it hadn't thawed yet. But... I did it! And I was impressed with myself. It wasn't the shoes, my clothes or anything. It was me!

However shoes, socks, and appropriate clothing is simply important because it makes it comfortable. We have paved surfaces (impact on skeletal structure), vehicles (don't trip and fall especially due to floppy clothing), frigid temperatures (thermal layers), sweat building up (hot and cold can have some issues on the body). The wrong gear can cause injury as well as pain.  As we ran, I could feel a  blister had formed on my arches. The runners running with me asked me when I told them, if I had been "fitted" for the shoes. I said yes (we figured it was due to the uneven terrain).

In running you just don't find a shoe you fancy, and buy it. It's not about brand, or color or what you like, its about your stride, footfall, cadence, foot shape etc. You go to a specialty running store and you get fitted for one. I told the guy I wanted a minimalist shoe which I could wear on paved surfaces well; running barefoot, or with my vibrams on paved surfaces hurt. I prefer using those for trails. Footfall, I have trained to do so, so I fall on the ball of my foot. Most people fall on heel or midsole: different type of shoe. I got fitted and these asics (not my favorite brand)  gel lite 33 3 model (not my favorite color at all). Fit well, are comfy, the right amount of warmth, and they are minimalist enough without freezing my feet. They are ugly though have enough room for my crazy wide toes. Ok they aren't that ugly that I wouldn't wear them.

I had to put them on and run inside the store. It felt "normal", and great. Shoe was boughten! Then the very nice man at the Fleet Feet told me to definitely not wear cotton socks as they hold moisture and encourage funky fungi and bacterial growth... fun stuff. New shoes, luckily I had socks at home, I just liked the feeling of fresh cotton socks, new socks... what else?

While running with wonderful teams like Towpath turtles, and other runners, one learns new jargon. I learned the word Swag. Swag is the stuff you get from running in a race! I think the swag is usually like a medal, a t-shirt, sweat shirt, etc. Depending on how many miles you do, or something. It helps motivate you to run, if not feel like you're getting something after paying to run :-P

If you are interested in running but are not in shape at all, google Couch to 5K for various options on how to get off the couch and get moving. It starts with just a few minutes everyday! You can do it. Surprise yourself!

Chronicles in Running - Part 1

I read an article a few years ago which said either you had runner genes or you didn't. I dislike when preexisting unchangeable conditions prevent you from doing something you love doing. I am always reminded of the Para-Olympians who don't let ANYTHING stand in their way of their dreams, goals and passions. I was a runner, then I fell off the wagon, the wagon of which I was able to do 3-5 miles at an easy pace and be cool afterwards. I haven't been able to run since. Every-time I would run 3 miles and injure something.What was I do wrong?

Too much too fast too soon. 

I needed to start slow and small. In three weeks now, I am able to do 3 miles, slowly, and steady, without injury. Yes there is soreness, but not injury. The secret is I joined an awesome group: The Towpath Turtles, based out of Akron, Ohio. This group runs slow, and believes no one should run alone. So running with someone makes running more than bearable, it's almost easy. We learn to slow our pace to a "chat-able- pace", we learn form, we warm up and cool down, stretch, and cheer each other on. The team work, socializing and sharing common goals help. Just to be able to run a little longer.

Everyone may not have "Runner" genes, or be built athletic, but this does not mean we can not work with what we have. It may take longer, we might be slower, but we are still trying. Which is better than just sitting around and not trying. 

Mentally it is a struggle, but now it is so addicting (after three weeks) - the runner's high. It is so worth it. It wasn't there before, at 1 mile per day. Now at 1.5- 2 miles and at 3 miles the runner's high is strong and amazing. It almost even keeps you going.

Another thing that keeps you going, is its February/March in Ohio, and it is still well below 30*F. So the only way to keep warm, is to run, and keep moving. My first run with the group was in a blizzard right after I had gotten back from California. The snow was in my eyes, and it was freezing. We completed running  with a few walks in-between; it was a memorable experience. I am that person that goes for a run in a blizzard.

The feeling of completing a run is fantastic. It is an achievement for yourself. One learns a lot of life lessons metaphorically, a lot of health tips, and a lot about racing. It may be tough to run at first, it maybe difficult to get motivated, it maybe challenging to understand why run at all. Once you start, it is self explanatory.

More to come!

(What do you want to read about running?)

Breathe!

On Reincarnation

Driving to work after lunch, my dad tired, weary, and in pain from a recent tooth extraction talks to me about life, issues in life, and life after death... (in Bengali):

Dad- I have only one more reincarnation.
Me- Oh really?
Dad- yeah. I have a choice between a cricket or a butterfly.
Me- Go with butterfly.
Dad- I will do that. I just need to check the right box, and send in the form.

Always many laughs with my dad!

Paradise on Earth - Yosemite National Park

There are so many fabulous far away places to see...

This one brought me to my knees.

The journey was a rough one. I set out from Ohio on the 7:30 flight via Chicago O Hare, to SFO International Airport. It landed at 12:30 am midnight. My little sis, drove up in her car, having a hard time finding the right terminal and gate etc., it was cute to listen to her navigate and finally find me. I don't remember if we hugged, but I do remember her asking me immediately afterward, "will you please drive back?" I was tired, and sick, and sick, and tired, not to forget hungry!
We found a late night sushi place in Oakland, cause such places exist in cities that are not Cleveland.
We went to Kansai Sushi in oakland (off of 44th and Telegraph Ave.), and ordered a bunch of rolls, including a delicious Ryan roll (cause it was named after my boyfriend, although he had nothing to do with its creation). It hit the spot. After a satisfying short meal, we headed to her little house in the Berkeley hills.

We got home, slept, and woke up bright and early. We went for a walk/ run through a little rose garden, a park, a very steep up hill run, and when we got home we made breakfast. We left for Yoga at the Yoga to the People studio, lunch at Udipi Palace in Berkeley and finally quick stop for groceries at Trader Joes. We were finally done by 3 pm and we set off to Yosemite - Curry Village. The GPS told us it was 3 hours and 40 some minutes away. There was traffic, the weather was wonderful and we did need to stop for gas.

As we got closer to Yosemite we got onto Rt 120, there was a very scary portion of the road after passing "Moccasin Point", (near a place called Groveland), where the road was very windy with hairpin curves and turns, and it was 20 miles/ hour speed limit, and there was no barrier to the steep drop. It was daylight still and we could see this steep drop. I was flipping out, and my sis kept reminding me her GPS was saying 30 miles for the last 30 minutes as we slowly took the curves carefully. Shortly after that nightmare of a windy road, we entered Yosemite National park, but then it became dark. The road was pretty smooth, other than signs for watch out for large herds of cattle- Ok! It was still 47 miles so it took about an hour, and we passed all the great rocks - El Capitan, Cathedral Rocks etc. However we had no idea, because it was pitch black.

Curry Village was cute set in the heart of the Yosemite Valley Village. It has a skate rink, and there are shuttle buses running in the day, all the way up to 10 pm. There are a ton of activities one can pursue there from ice skating, skiing, to bicycling, rock climbing, horse riding and just hiking. I think in the summer there are food and wine events and there are also other fancy lodges there. Anyway we checked in, found our tent, settled in and headed to meet some friends from Ohio for dinner at the fancier part of the Valley Village. After which we were so tired and cold, and cold and tired, we passed out (before which I walked to and from a bathroom three times since I couldn't figure out how to get in. Ah see you would think it would be easy, but the bathrooms have a code!). There is a quiet time after 10 pm however we had noisy neighbors so I had a hard time sleeping, besides having to wake up to go to the bathroom, and having to wake up to shivering, since the bottom of the mattress was not insulated, and also because the warm air rises, so I was warm from above with three woolen blankets, but freezing. It was only a little below 30*F that night (mid-February).

My sis woke up and said- "Hey let's get going", or something to that effect. We got out tooth brushes, some towels, and got ready to go to the bathroom. We stepped out of the tent, and it was a jaw dropping, falling to your knees kind of sight. The tents were scattered in a grove of red woods, which were relatively young. Looming up and around the valley around us, above these young trees were cliffs, chunks of massive rock, greeting us by reflecting the rising sun. I couldn't stop looking, and I had stopped breathing. There's something about that sight. It's gigantic rocks split in half, so odd, yet natural. So normal yet so fantastical... I don't know what it was about that place but it is insane as in, it's unimaginably magical in an inexplicable way.

Finally my sister reminded me we needed to get closer to those things (the rocks), but we had to wash, eat breakfast, check out and then head to the trail. So we did. We had breakfast at the Curry Village Coffee shop very quickly and headed on to "Mirror Lake Trail Head". This is an easy hike, and it leads to this crystal clear lake which gets its water from the depleting glacier, and is thus a mirror to the amazing cliffs around it which include Half Dome. The hike was easy, but since it was in the shade of the cliffs, and in the valley, it was still frigid, and the cold was biting. We kept moving to stay warm. There were other hikers from all over the world; it was amazing to see so many people there in February, I can't imagine what Summer is like. We got to see the amazing sights near mirror lane, we saw the glacier and snow capped peaks beyond the lake. We hiked the loop, got lost, and had to turn around. So what was supposed to be a 2 mile hike max, became a 5 mile hike. Anyway we ended up right by Curry Village.

We went to some of the scenic stopping areas and took pictures. We were so awestruck we were just taking it all in. I knew this is why we needed a short trip so that we could absorb the shock of the beauty, and let the overwhelming immensity of Nature sink in, so that next time we could hike and see more, without being stunned. I don't know if others experience this, but I sure as heck do and did. This time we did see El Cap, Cathedral rock, and other amazing rocks. The drive back was still scary but the weather was perfect. We said good bye, and vowed to return again soon. I kind of want to live there.

I highly recommend adding Yosemite to your places to visit, and see.

Looking Back On Life, Achievements, Career... At 31

31 years is a long time, but not really that long, its about perspective. I just realized it is my birthday this week, and I had nothing planned. I have been so busy with life, work, changes, health, that I totally forgot my flipping 31st birthday.

Oh boy! I've crossed over the 30 hill, and I will say this whole "grownup, non-college student, real life, responsibility is all over-rated. Kids don't know how good they have it, despite having their sugar limits controlled, etc. They need to chill out and enjoy life, moments, when they have the time, because as we grow time flies by faster, and we don't pause and enjoy the moments, and life as much. C'est la vie!

31, what have I accomplished? A couple of degrees, this job, and another job... but they don't seem as important to me as other amazing things I have done. I learned to rock climb, I climbed half way up a mountain and then felt pretty sick, so had to come back down, but I tried, I got half way up. Next time it will be all the way! I learnt from this that Climbing isn't about brute force, its all about the mind, overcoming it, coming to terms with it, and using the brain to figure out how.

There was a spontaneous trip. I went to Yosemite, although just for a day, I went there with my sister. It was our first adventure together! This was a place I had heard about, read about, dreamed about since I was a child. Just being present there was awe inspiring. You can read my blog about it here.

Realizations have been arrived at in my 30th year: I'm a pretty badass, hardworking, strong, and passionate person. Somewhere along the way I stopped believing in myself. Maybe the lack of enthusiasm and optimism from jaded seniors rubbed on to me? Maybe it was that the hard times or the reality that a fancy degree does not mean you land your perfect job. In fact it takes a lot of searching to find that. Finally I remembered why Pree is so awesome! I first quit eating meat when I was in 3rd or 4th grade. I couldn't deal with the cruelty. I was able to give up caffeine, meat, dairy, alcohol this past year. I did not miss a single Yoga teacher training class, this girl who tries to wiggle out of most commitments, made a commitment that i would keep all my commitments, or be utterly honest about why I was backing out, (even if it was just because I was tired and just needed "me" time).

I am a badass, and always have been. an amazing example is when I was 17: I shaved off my hair (before Britney did)! This was in the 12th grade about Jan or Feb, my senior year, kind of right before the farewell party (kind of like prom). I just didn't want my hair to define me. I was tired of being judged by the way I looked, girls disliked me, guys objectified me... so off the hair came. This experience taught me alot about hair: it grows back, hair on our bodies make so much difference, yet so little. This taught me a lot about people: many people who were my friends, disappeared into the woodwork. I found out who my true friends were, I learned that hair is so easy to have, we hide behind it, it takes so much confidence to be bald. Walking into school was so tough the first day, everyone stared, people asked me dumb questions, like if I had cancer. I told them all to Sod  off. Some people don't care how you look, they love you for you, others are all about judging on outward appearances... hmm! Remind you of the millionaire who dressed up like a bum? So many stories... 

Being bald is tough, carrying yourself with a bald head is tougher than with hair: more reason to be self conscious... or does societal norms make that happen? Days passed by and each day became easier, not because the hair was growing back, but because I learned to carry that head, I knew I was more than just my hair, and looks.

The Olympics, the world cup, yoga, the grand slams of Tennis: I love sports, and have always taken part in sports. A lot of my passions always lay in athletics because it seemed so real to test the human spirit through our bodies, thus mind and soul. Being an athlete takes immense discipline, it has nothing to do with race, genetics, gender... its about your state of mind. I wanted to be a "Yogi", and I am slowly getting there. It's not unattainable. I want to be a runner, I am runner, I might not be Usain Bolt, but I am closer than I was yesterday. It's not about losing weight, its about setting goals, being healthy, and becoming the Pree I want to be. This year I'll be blogging on my journeys through running, hope you'll check in on it! Hope to run a half marathon by September!

Who Moved My Cheese, it was the wake up call, that 'hey changes happen'. However, actual growth is a conscious decision. Of course one could succumb to the societal norms of growth, its the easy way, but every now and then there are those, like me, who chose to grow differently in life. I picked a different path, and I am brave enough to go down it alone, and with loved ones. It takes more conscious of a "I will grow" factor. It's different from going from job to job, it definitely requires getting out of all your comfort zones, making sacrifices... etc. C'est La Vie!

Online dating does work: I met my boyfriend online, it was a long process, we lost touch, and reconnected, met in person. We clicked, and it's been a wonderful 3.5 years getting to know each other. :-) I will say it did take a lot of men who didn't match what I wanted in life before I met Ryan, but I am glad I waited, and tried. In fact I had almost given up hope with the male kind when I met him. I love him deeply, and dearly. We make such a good team - tandem kayaking, biking, hiking, camping, travelling, moving,  gaming, cooking... and most of all just being!

Pursuing Dreams: it can be done, just takes a lot of growth, mental awareness, and mentally, physically being able to digest that "Wow that's a heck of a mountain, but I can climb it. *gulp*" - it's OK to be overwhelmed, scared, but once you take the first step. You know you can do it. I've been writing my first book, half way through I realized how huge this is, how difficult, tiring, and complicated, but at the same time so simple. So its really about building blocks, taking one step at a time. Phewie - Breathe!

I had no idea what my "dreams" / goals were until I created a vision board. First I stuck pictures that I wanted on there, then pictures I liked, and things which I wished I would / could become. A year and a half later, encouraged by a friend, I finished my Yoga Teaching Studies Certificate, I received a raise at work... it was happening just like the stuff I stuck on my vision board. Now looking to further improve, am creating a new vision board.

My spiritual path, learnings, studies, reflections, and teachings have all deepened while on this journey. I have been able to meditate for an hour a more at least once a week, and practice a daily meditation/ yoga practice. Although my daily practice may range from a short 15 minute to an hour, I make sure i touch upon some form of meditation, yoga or Pranayam. My self discipline has increased, and I impress myself with my abilities daily. On weekends I am a little more laid back, or else I would be burnt out.

I think on writing this I reflect on what brings value to me and my life, especially since I panic after crossing 30. I say, measure yourself in experience and growth, and not in "accomplishments". If we live from one goal to the next, we forget to be, and the journey is the important part. So keep sight of your goals, let them free flow, but always remember to be true to yourself, to be present in each moment, and most of all be happy in what you do.

Vegan Chickpea Curry

Recently I've developed a plethora of food allergies/ intolerances. The doc doesn't know... anyway, this has driven me to be vegan, and gluten free, caffeine free and alcohol free (although I could have wine). I occasionally give into dairy and bread, but I pay for it sorely within hours. So really I never thought I would be on the vegan-gluten free band wagon, but here I am.

My choice to be a vegetarian was mien of course, but all this other stuff, no. I miss bread, and I miss yogurt.

My eating habits have changed, and it's been tough going out to eat. Everything, especially major chain restaurants only has meat, with cheese, and bread. After so many meals out does one want to order a bed of lettuce again with a few tomatoes.

Cooking has been awesome. It's interesting, and exercises the mind and heart. Also since I've been working out A LOT, I crave protein, however I need my balanced meals. In the past I'd go to chipotle and order carnitas with rice and what not. Now I have the joy of enjoying the veggie bowl (no fajita veggies- green pepper allergy). So a quick meal is usually brown rice, both beans, mild sauce, lettuce and guacamole. I was making this amazing garbanzo bean salad, but that got tedious and so I began eating plain chickpeas out of a can. 

However, eating out in general can get expensive, salads get old, and eating chickpeas out of a can, can get bland. Plus the art of cooking is so romantic in a way. So I came up with a recipe... or is it the inert Indian cooking genes in me?

Chickpea Curry Recipe

Ingredients:

1 can garbanzo beans (un-drained)

1 yellow/ sweet onion

1 - 2  cloves garlic (to taste)

1-2 vine tomatoes (or just any frikkin tomato)

1-2 teaspoons cumin seed

1/4th teaspoon turmeric powder

0.5 inch of grates ginger OR 1/4 teaspoon ginger powder

1/4th teaspoon chili powder/ paprika/ cayenne pepper (to taste)

1-2 dried chili peppers

1-2 tablespoons oil (vegetable/ olive)

1/3 cup water

10-15 minutes. Serves 2.

Directions:

1- dice the onion, tomato and garlic, and keep separately

2- heat the oil in a frying pan over medium heat/ flame

3- add onions, garlic cumin to hot oil. wait till little golden

4. add tomatoes (beware the splatter)

5- let the tomatoes get a little mushy

6- add all other spices let heat a little longer 5-6 minutes

7- add garbanzo beans with water and let cook covered for a little bit.

8- add salt to your own taste. and a pinch of sugar!

Voila!

drape over some brown rice, or with naan, roti/tortilla, and enjoy.

Weather: It Happens

It's subzero again!

There definitely is a threshold somewhere, between 13*f to 25*f which just feels awfully cold, but below 13*f its just cold, and then exhilarating. I have now come to love it, but aah the finger and toe pains. It may be frost bite setting in, but its manageable if you find a place to thaw.

Going to watch "Frozen" today... how apt is that?

Anyway, we always let weather affect us, our moods, our chatter, how about we affect weather! Be happy at it... if anything the happiness will just bounce back and make you giggle. Just don't let weather get you down, cause then things just go downhill from there.

Yeah am pretty sure this crazy weather is a culmination of many factors, geographic, environmental, etc. In the end we have to just deal with what we are handed, so let's make the best of it? Complaining, blaming, and signing petitions... (that last one might help, I don't know), won't really stop the coldness from freezing, or the heat from droughting, so suck it up, pull yourself together and be!
Then choose to be happy!

Breathe!

Brave

Brave is a wonderful animated movie, I would recommend it to everyone to watch. The movie hit a note in my heart: my mother and I. The movie is about Merida and her mother. Merida is a tom-boy, who doesn't want to get married to some guy her parents picked out for her. Another theme I am so familiar with in my own life. This movie resonated with me. As I watched it I shivered, even more, cause apart from the story, there'something about the Gaelic, the Celtic music style, and the Scottish accents, that speaks to my soul. I felt at home, in a different sense. I've always fantasized about the green forests of Ireland, and hills of Scotland, the country side, the dancing, the culture, the people... something about the bagpipes, something about the music, something that sings straight to my heart. What is that something?

(now i'm sitting and listening to as much as Celtic music, or songs sung in Gaelic as possible.)

Thoughts: So often we get so caught up in our identity today, now, me- me - me, I- I- I... ie. I'm a proud Indian, with rich cultural heritage, and I like strawberries, and I like only reading classics, and I like to be well mannered, and I like to wear black boots, etc. etc. Then some one is like, I am American, and USA is a great nation to be from; Or I am Chinese, and Chinese culture and older than India's... and so on and so forth. When I was young I was so enthralled by diversity, culture, languages, religions, practices in the world, that I wanted to be a citizen of the WORLD. As I grew up though I encountered organized religion which told me that one religion was less than another, and that one country was superior to the other. However all these people, and countries had citizens or members who were kind and giving... so confusing! Pride - giving? Ego - kindness? Total opposites? It might be a totally different thought process to meditate upon.

I wondered what if in my last life I was a Scotsman? Or an Irish lass? What if I was once a native american princes? or a Japanese Samurai? What if in another lifetime I was an Mesopotamian trader? DO we lose the big picture when we identify with what we are in this life time? I could have been anyone, thus the saying in Isshinryu Karate - the way of the one heart - We are all one. I could have been you, and you me... 

Then again your religion is better and superior than mine and doesn't believe in reincarnation... so go ahead and be mean to be. But aha all religions preach teach and maybe practice - forgiveness, kindness, giving, and love!

Going back to the big picture... I'm an Indian now and know my culture, but what if I had been an Irishman in my past, and Italian, can I embrace those as ME? or must I be only what my birth certificate says? I know the law is in place to help us, but why not be a global citizen at heart? Why don't we realize that our fates are intertwined with the earth as a whole, with each other, and its not separate? Why do we limit ourselves so? Why aren't we brave enough to embrace all?

Breathe

Any good Gaelic/ Celtic music recommendations? I can't wait to go over there one day!

The Best Year Yet!

Two weeks ago it was the 1st day of the New Year, and I realized a lot of things. On social media everyone was saying Happy New Year, this will be the best year yet, but I couldn't feel that excitement or joy. Why are people so excited for the New Year? Or are they just happy to be at a party? Life flows, I never really see any clear demarcations, some events stand out more than others. From a financial stand point, sure the Newish fical year begins, but hey we still have to pay bills from last year, etc. So what are we really celebrating?

My boyfriend, Ryan, and I had a quiet New Years Eve together, and we watched Space Balls. In the middle we watched the ball drop in Times Square, New York City. It was another year beginning for sure. He played Auld Lang Syne for me on the guitar, which was lovely, as I felt the frenzy and rush to text everyone I know. Highly overrated. I felt the need to drink copious amounts of liquor, cause that just seems the thing to do on holidays.

I was trying to help me feel excited but deep in my heart I knew the truth. If I thought 2013 was tough, 2014 will be tougher still, it maybe my toughest year ever! There are decisions to make, big changes and let's not forget taking risks. So, here I am trying to feel excited like everyone else, but it was not going to happen. I have this enormous task at hand, which is my path, my life, it's no one else's, and it seems really daunting, if not overwhelming. I have so many goals set forth this year- improving my health, losing weight, running more, climbing more, yoga-ing more, writing more, maybe changing my job, maybe starting a business, maybe switching careers...

This year I turn 31; So far I've gathered I'm not a normal human being. Yep, I'm 31 and haven't "settled down", at all, not even in life. Let's say normal is the net in a tennis court, I'm a little past the service court boxes, the weird and outlandish are at the baseline and the crazies are like where Nadal hits his awesome shots from with those grunts, way back near back-screen where the ball boys await. (anyway in tennis, Olympics and football mode since the Australian open is upon us, and World Cup and Olympics soon to be!) Anyway, I dunno why I can't just settle down, maybe cause there's still so much to see, learn, do, experience, live, explore...

So far I think I've been dealing with what this tough year has thrown at me pretty well, I had to give up drinking, cause it was a major downer, and I need me to pick me up! I was overwhelmed, anxious about this new year, I felt bad that I could not say this will be the best year yet. All I thought to myself was this will be a tough year, and I found myself facing the Moguls skiing; hitting each bumps, gaining speed rapidly heading down hill, obstacle after obstacle looming, and me losing control. I should quit right now, I thought, but it was no solution, I knew, and as I tried to take a turn I crashed. Yep no more drinking for me, I picked up the pieces and realized if I don't flip my attitude it would be the worst year yet, if not just the toughest.

This year has been challenging and will continue to be so, and I am ready for it, although I did shed a tear or two, I know I can handle it. I will drive forward into midfield, maneuver through the defense and kick that goal! It will be a long game, so need to build my stamina, strength, and willpower, not to forget motivation and determination, and I know I will see myself through. And tough does not necessarily mean worst, flip that negativity to positivity. Flip that attitude, kinda like a flip in Aerial skiing, always landing on your feet! Bring it!

I hope everyone else has a lovely year! And I know I will too, now, I know I will.


Breathe!

Half Way Through At The End Of The Year

I like Capitalizing the first letter of all the words in my headings, I don't know why.
Ok let me get

I am writing a fictional novel. It's a supernatural thriller, for young adults or grown ups not sure yet. It's more work than I thought it would be, and it's funny how the book grows as I grow as a person. I don't think it will be my best work, but I am pouring my heart and mind into this. I feel like i am writing it in a rush, because i gave myself a deadline, but because of Teacher Training, holidays, and my new boost for getting back in shape, I have fallen behind. I do hope to make hedgeway as I thought it was called, but then Ryan corrected me, and I know it is headway. It's going to be a fun book to read, creative and imaginative.

This book takes me places in my mind, and makes me people I am not! Can't wait to share it with you all eventually! Writing this blog, makes me feel like I've finally come clean, in regards to my absence from blogging. I mean I have blogged, but its not as incessant as it was. In fact am proud to say last year I published 137 blogs posts. My blogger stats tell me the most number of views were in July and Nov 2013. USA rules with most readership, followed by Russia! India follows in at third, and European countries including UK follow after that. I just have to say thanks for reading to all my readers! I hope you all will like my book!

Most people view it from a Windows computer; 28% from a Mac. Oooh! 48% view from firefox, and only 20% from Chrome, (chrome is personally my preferred browser. It's fast and better all round). 15% of readers still use IE, whyyy!!!! There's so much other info from the stats, but this was supposed to be about the book I'm writing, how I got carried away!

I'm half way through writing this book. YA(young adult books are usually 55k to 60k long, and I am (a grandmother figure in my life, told me to never measure/ count progress but to get through it), 26k in. Which is half way for the 50k goal, ok plus there will be more added. However for sci-fi fantasy "they" say a 6 figure range is better... really?

Trudging along then!
I can do this!


Breathe!

The Thing About Resolutions...

It's 2014! Happy New Year, readers!

Resolutions? Well I have a few, but the thing about resolutions is after the first quarter it disappears! So why do we make them?

The idea of a resolution is to change our habits, to grow, better, and to make this positive change a habit and integrate it into our being. The thing is if we don't see it as a part of us from the beginning, it's never going to work. One has to be mindful, and conscious of this new aspect throughout the year, until it's an old aspect. Right?

Let's take for example losing weight. People work out for the first 3 months, until they lose 10 lbs! They are like Yay! The thing is then they leave it. The thing about weight loss is continuing with an active lifestyle. Plus eating healthy, etc., as I have mentioned in my other blogs. Kind of like weight loss, lets look at giving up a certain behavior pattern, for something better, ie. being more positive, quitting alcohol. These are tough changes, and more psychological than what a "resolution" represents these days. Instead of trying to become more positive, start by saying I am positive person, and follow through with a positive action. While breaking a bad habit, such as quitting drinking, or coffee, is weaning yourself off it, substituting, and disassociating with that thing (in this case alcohol).

So a resolution is in fact a lifestyle change often, right? Unless it's something like, this year I will connect with my high-school friends, or will go on a vacation this year. Sometimes those too include lifestyle changes, making time for new people in your life, or saving up for that vacation.

Here I am able to finally explain my resolutions:
1) to be more present, especially in the presence of loved ones. This means being more conscious of my actions and behavior over all. I do feel meditation can help me. Staying true to myself too.
2) I will, try to be less attached to my cell phone this year. I will try to curb my Nomophobia.
3) Follow through with my book plans, which means less TV, and less Xbox, more focusing on projects.
4) Lose weight. Going to the gym everyday to get either 15-20 minute work out in, or for a whopping two hours. Whatever the duration of the work out, goal is at least 10-14 miles a week.
5) Eating healthy, it starts at home! I'm going to learn to be happy and satisfied, binge-ing on carrots... actually as my personal trainer says, if you want some cake, have it, 1 small piece, just remember to do the work for it.
6) Save more money, spend less!

Those are my small - big goals! What are your "resolutions"?


Breathe!