How much are excuses worth? (a Word to being a gazelle)

 

 

      Definitely learned a lot while dedicating incredible time to my sorority from then and even now. I was biased, but I truly appreciate what my sisters and brothers have (and still) taught me. One big thing was to make no excuses when you have the power to accomplish not settling in your OWN life. 

Life ain't for the weary and I advise you to learn a thing or two about enhancing life through something that empowers you EVERDAY. Cuz you gotta live, and not by the rules you bow down to that is run by definitions and categories of what you should be doing.

This is the quote us tough chicks learned:

"Excuses are the tools of the incompetent, used to build monuments of nothingness, and those who use them are seldom good at anything else."

So what is life worth to you and the people around you due to your excuse? Certainly they are not asking you to do a million dollar task that you cannot afford. You didn't think of trying out something new because of the thought process in not being able to do it. After you made that excuse did it feel good to get out of that oh so hard 'situation' while others get to move forward and you just wait around for the next bus going a moment later by yourself?

Get outta here!

Before you say anything, think before you react and say that you can. My cool yoga teacher says during practice, "Push to your edge.", and when you feel like coming out of it (position), hold on to the reason you brought yourself here and challenge against that resistant thought process and rise above it! You don't live to just die, you are living because you love being able to see tomorrow and what it can bring to you.

There are so many ways to find your 'edge' and battle through the excuses of 'not to' to exceling in what you know what you can do. Listen to others around you making excuses for not doing something and recognize how your thinking changes to go forth and conquer. Does that make the environment, or your confidence for asking them, feel better? Not saying you have to do things with people all the time, or go out everyday, but when you set a positive mindset for yourself, (even to only watch 2 episodes of "Friends' instead of 10) you feel like you have done better for yourself and that can lead examples for others. There is so much out here to explore, you gotta see what others are getting to see, meet, and achieve and create your own strong life purpose.

So instead of an excuse, make the investment to open your ideas and let 'em run wild.

Be a freaking Gazelle and RUN THIS!

Here's some stuff in anytime, anyplace around the world you can get into! (Just a few examples of each TO BOOST A BRAINSTORM ADVENTURE)

Athletic:

Soulcycle- https://www.soul-cycle.com/

Find many different classes and experiences- https://www.mindbodyonline.com

Free City fitness in parks- www.sanantonio.gov/.../CategoryName/Fitness-in-the-Park/Default.aspx


Group Fun:
Indoor Kart racing- https://www.k1speed.com/ 
Drum Circles- www.drumcircles.net/circlelist.html

Museum Finder: www.aam-us.org/about-museums/find-a-museum

Festival Finder: www.fest300.com

Date night: Make a bucket list and GET AWESOME!!!

Shindig on.

SUPER YOU

So what? V day happened. (On to the next please...)

I am not BITTER about not going out on a good date on Valentine's. (In fact, wait for my book, it’s gonna be hilarious about dating.) This post is not the way to go if you think this is a one-sided sort of post-modern V-Day blogging.  Since the beginning of time, well my time, up to the point of hearing both sides I say this, “Love Everyone.” Not telling you go to on the street and ask for hugs or kisses from the world (there are some nasty cooties out there), but try not to limit your knowledge/capability of caring to one person or special holiday.

A lady I study with, and it seems we are actually similar (she’s me in my mature years of cool life), I think nailed me on the head. She said, “This girl knows no strangers.” And I had to think and clap on that. It got me thinking, “Why IS everyone so freaking afraid of getting to know someone when they have nothing to lose when they did not know that person in the first place?” I mean, is the possibility of never knowing that person intimately (though you never knew them in your LIFE to begin with) because they are not interested in hanging with you ,THAT nerve-wrecking that you won’t get your panties(or boxers) adjusted to just say “Yo, how you doing?” (Thanks Joey Tribiani). If they say ‘no thanks’, just move a long cordially.

(Jay Z “On to The Next” Video) *Dance it out*

Valentine’s Day: Me and some really cool peeps took a bike ride out in the city and did something unexpected for the public and gave out flowers. Some were receptive and others, well I won’t kick their booty today for being a lil boogie. As my pal said, “We should do this as a social experiment…”, I was thinking what is holding someone back from just seeing the openness someone is trying to give and seeing that we are not trying to sell something. That we were just being nice to show the love, pay it forward, or just, as the lady friend said, “Just doing something friggn’ nice for ya!” Stranger danger should hardly be a concern after a certain age (with your good  ol' common sense) and so should your attitude towards other humans expectancy. This whole introvert\extrovert labels should go kaput to a black box island and officially be unknown.

As someone interested in finding that luuuuuuuuuuuuv, but not really ‘pressed’ (90s kids know the term) to get twisted out in these streets, finds just the practicality of getting to know someone. By saying “’Sup’”, can be sufficient to leading to a fun that is unexpected. A way to meet people that you never know can turn around for the best for you just because you kept it simple.

KEY: KEEP IT SIMPLE HUMAN.

And that’s just it, we are all HUMAN. Not everyone is in it for the cookie, or cake, or pie and eat chips with dip too. Until a clear statement, like some recent experiences I have encountered have grossly stated, get out of your head and reach your hand out for a cordial response and not a material or super emotional exchange. My guy/gal friends alike have had a crazy time finding love, getting to know folks in a new place, or just finding that similar weird in someone else (we all got something interesting going on).  All just because we’d forced it or didn’t just see that it is okay to just actually get to say 'hello' to a person first before you invest your entire heart and hard earned cash on someone. I have truly been able to confidently invest my heart, mind, and time in friends, networks, and new random peeps and seeing that everyone should have that pal that does not mind the bravery or simplicity it took to just reach out for a common word amongst humans.

Be positive in what may come out of your random chance for smiling. Try a new hobby, play somewhere with strangers, or just calling that new number (rather than texting) to see what can happen. Your results may not happen right away, but at least you are making SOMETHING HAPPEN. Try something, try it now. There is no harm in showing chill love for someone to know there are others out there willing to try something they have been thinking about doing too.

You may become someone’s story and liven up their world.

Without labels.

As human as not expected.

 

Post v day 16

Soul Story : Vanessa Gonzalez

 Soul Story:

 Vanessa Gonzalez

People met on this journey to living, rather than surviving, have certainly made me (and many others) smile throughout the times spent with them. Practicing yoga regularly and encompassing new friendships throughout has made going forward that much happier. Ms. Vanessa has certainly brightened what I would have thought a task, into something you can laugh at yourself about, and after falling---laugh through the strength it takes in getting back up. Every time we meet and conjure up a new ideas or just shoot the breeze on love, life, education, and meaningful fun things there is never a doubt you will leave without learning or believing higher about yourself or what ANYTHING can become with a smile (she's radiant!). For the many aspects of life that can change, it is inspirational to hear the wellness and positivity from so much has changed one's life, but is willing to get others out NOW and keep that mind strong.


How did yoga come into your life?

Through sports. I started practicing yoga in High School at a racquetball & fitness class to supplement Track & Cross Country. It gave me the flexibility and mental strength to be a better runner.

 

What allows you to let go and let flow? 

Bring in the present moment and connecting my students. Tuning into what they need as I see them flow.

 

What have you learned about yourself (inside and out)?

Oh, wow! I can tell you a story about that. LOL… Yoga literally saved my life! Practicing yoga and being an instructor has allowed me to bring awareness to my breath, mind, and body. I changed at a cellular level. Not only did yoga help me physically, but it helped me internally. I suffered from epilepsy and with a consistent power yoga practiced, meditation and good nutrition, I healed. It (yoga) also helped shed the lies I had created in my mind that weighed me down and rediscovered my inner light. My new awareness has brought me back to my faith and now I can see my purpose more clearly. I have become more compassionate and loving with myself. Which in turn transfers over to others.

What in your life has changed due to growth?

Everything! As I stated before, it’s a regeneration at a cellular level. My perspective changed and my world changed. Having the new perspective about myself has opened up doors to opportunity within myself. I realized that I have always enjoyed being into Health & Wellness. The difference now is that I want to share how I feel and do with others. Transforming into the real me has changed my relationship and has opened up the doors to opportunity. 

Describe a mindful warrior.

We go through challenges and obstacles and we get through them. Being Mindful is that part we all need to develop. Mindfulness is about waking up and developing consciousness which will raise us to a higher level of consciousness.

Are there any goals in your future you want to conquer with Yoga?
Yes, the goal and vision is to teach our local and global community about Health & Wellness. By collaborating with local organizations and businesses in the future, I would like to take my yoga teaching to a global level and reach out to people in other countries.




Is there any encouragement to those who are new/shy about practicing yoga?

If you think about it you do yoga everyday without knowing it. You BREATH, with yoga you WAKE UP to a different level of awareness.
    The coolest thing I have seen was a person in a wheelchair do Power Yoga. They only had half their body movement. For me, I could not do a Chaturanga for 6 months! Since I only focused on running I had no upper body strength!

The first step is to come onto your mat as you are.

The rest is up to you, to step out of your comfort zone to come into something new, on or off your mat. Anybody CAN do it! Yoga is for all!

Any intentions for the 'Right Now' in your life? 

Yes, I am on my path toward healing and living my purpose. NO MORE HOLDING BACK!

 

Life lessons, what do you teach to your students and friends?

1. Everyone makes mistakes. Be compassionate with yourself.

2. When you let go of PEOPLE'S expectations of who you are meant to be, you realize YOU are the CREATOR of your REALITY.

3. Once you align your mind & hear---your true self comes out. 

4. Everyone has their path. Follow yours and you can’t go wrong. Let go of competition and comparison.

As such an inspiring and joyful teacher how do you intend to inspire others?

I intend to lead by example, and inspire others to embrace and love who they are, and to share their passions with others. When we share what we love we come together and create something beyond our dreams. Just like you, me and Sam, we shared what we love to do and now it’s come to this! ;)

Any tips on building a strong foundation (mindfully and/or physically) that can encourage people to keep going in anything they do? 

Yes, my faith really has set my foundation into everything I do, mentally and physically. That being said, not everyone is of the same faith.  From the yogi perspective, at the physical level, power yoga has allowed me to feel my body and hear my breath. As a result it connected mind and heart into alignment which has paved my path to where I am now. It has highlighted my strengths and weaknesses. So, that is a major part of being MINDFUL. It’s recognizing your strengths and your weakness. When you do that, you will see the areas in which you need to focus on. However, it takes discipline and the, “I can CHANGE and I AM Possible”, mentality to COMMIT to growth and set your roots down. Once you know where you need to root down (set your foundation), your branches will open up!

 

Soul Story: Yvette H.---Watermelon Rider

Now I have had the pleasure of meeting a lot of great men and women in while in Texas. But it is certainly wonderful when you get to meet a someone who is inspiring, welcoming, encouraging AND continues to grow and exemplify through many aspects and people throughout the community. A charging and awesome lady who is a concrete role model in the biking community has definitely proven that the power of connection and a kind heart lessen the degrees of separation and brings a growing community together through action and public works and dedication.

The ever growing and incredible group SATX Social Ride (formerly\widely aka San Antonio Tuesday Night Bike Club) hosts multiple weekly rides, informs folks about bike, community and safety when riding, and lends hand to great local charities. SATX Social Ride lends to rides of all levels on downtown routes, trails, and opens forums for others to ride and participate in many other big rides. Check below how the Watermelon Rider keeps it rolling in San Antonio.

What sparked your passion for biking? When did it begin?

On a more serious scale maybe three years ago, it no longer was just a pastime,  but a workout for our training.  Completing my very first Tour de Cure (36 miles) really inspired me to make and reach the next goal. Which was 65, then 100 miles.

How many miles a week do you average, and how do you encourage others to bike as well?

30 to 50 miles a week.  Facebook or text is my way to invite others to get out and ride! 

With the current campaign for “My 3 feet” what would you like to see this movement lead to?

Safer bike lanes more aware drivers and cyclists.

San Antonio is BOOMING with bicyclists and groups all over are making biking in the city known.  What does that make you feel to see such great power in numbers and what do you look forward to seeing in SATX in the near future as far as community participation?

It’s super exciting to see more bikes on the streets.  I would love to see protected bike lanes like in NYC and more signage.

What are you most memorable rides you have traveled on in Texas?

The Wildflower ride through our beautiful hill country.  My most difficult ride, but the scenery made it totally worthwhile.

What keeps/motivates you going when you give, bike, and promote your mission day in and day out?

The feeling of accomplishment after a ride.  It's also very motivating to see others excitement after their first ride.

You are in the masses and SA bike community, and it definitely has taken notice.  How do people know how to get involved and help encourage a better and safer bike atmosphere in San Antonio?

First of all lead by example. Become part of the MPO (Metropolitan Planning Organization- Alamo Area) and other community efforts.

What organizations that men, women, and children can get involved in San Antonio?

SATX Social Ride, Earn a Bike, Kidical Mass, Tomboy & Mimosas to name just a few.

   Must say I wouldn't be on these trails and biking happy if it weren't for Yvette. She has shown me and many others what fun goals and riding in the city is all about. Getting involved, enjoying every moment you can outdoors and welcoming others to join in is what it means to be a true model to experience a place like San Antonio is all about. Glad to know ya!

It's friggn' GREAT. (Video)

Look for the SATX Social Ride on Facebook and Instagram. Also check out Vegan in San Antonio and other great rides around SA from Murals Rides and the fun Wine and Cheese rides on the weekends! 

Embrace your era...The Brooklynite Experience

8:30pm- As I ask the mixing architect what to drink, the pleasant essence of revolution and freedom overcomes the scene. The lifting of Prohibition entices every spec of this classy vintage establishment and its decor. While the host of the Brooklynite showcases what he knows best, the humble and honesty to the craft brings solace to the end of a bustling day, yet lends feeling to the beginning of the best part of the day waiting to happen.

The crowd starts to fill as a legend prepares to give sound to what he does effortlessly.

9ish- A second cocktail is poured and the vibes draw higher as the element of lust and grace liven the joint with laughter, camaraderie, sensual draws and class of the unique only found here.
The premiere sight of pearls, gentlemen's hats, bow ties, and clinking of carefully crafted bevvies gives the longing to stay for more than just a sip. You want to actually be here. All should be here.

The crowd awakens as the  host cuts the music and the music begins. Jim Cullum.

THE Jim Cullum. The (happy) Jazz band.

Legandary.

The sound that not only promotes happy, but Jim catalyzes through my Southside cocktail. The feeling that I want more of with the fresh and invigorating taste. I want to go beyond exploration and hear more of what he has created with the times of Armstrong and pre-World War II. With humble and classic charm through sound and jolly, the exquisite room is roaring with delight and modern pleasure with swinging footsteps and que-meets of lovely new friends who have fallen in love here. As the -ish hour rolls on you await on the hopes of Jim to come back soon and round everyone once again into the rose colored feeling of time played through sounds of new and unknown tunes. But with no matter, all cannot help but enjoy the treasure that the night has lent to us to be a part of a musical institution's reverberation. A few, who are fortunate to get to admire personally the comfort and humble character of Mr. Cullum feel myriads more of being a part of this long awaited and whelming night.

What greatness it would be to one day BS with a legend, fill your peace with not only a place that raves a simplistic class...but allows you to feel as if you belong and wiser for choosing to stay.

The Brooklynite.

What a place. Where blues, jazz, and their relationship mean something beyond the sound. A taste, finesse, and poetry of essential craft defined by care and passion. A spot to relieve the mind to chat and learn the tastes of soul.

Give way to an experience with the key of soul & time to view what you really love about your heart as The Brooklynite brings creation of an era to love the creation of your own.





The Brooklynite
516 Brooklyn Ave
San Antonio, TX

Shindig your Way

I know I know about a lot of events, fun shindigs by friends, and get down and happy with the best of them. Most times though I enjoy being the quiet one at these events and watch/listen to how people interact instead of being the life of the party. Now the whole introvert\extrovert personalities can come into effect of how you place yourself in public settings. But when going to an event that you know people are going to interact and want some kind of attention from you or many how do you keep yourself open but mysterious at the same time?

I say: “Shut. Up.”

2 words that will totally catch the bold and shock the reserved. You can gear up (or down) who is gonna be your cup of tea at your next shindig. Those who react like they are ‘oh so taken aback’ will be your conservatives and low key folks that have that cool conversation with you. Although they may ghost out and you will be left like Cinderella’s shoe on a drunken homecoming night. Speaking of which, when is it cool to ghost out of a party??? 

Check out this story: http://ideas.evite.com/etiquette/is-ghosting-okay/

So don’t get your feelings hurt if these folks run out you like a bad ex-lover. Secondly, lol check this: http://ideas.evite.com/etiquette/the-dos-and-donts-of-seeing-an-ex-at-a-party/ 

Don’t worry you came to the party looking great and now you’re FABULOUS. Strut it and meet that someone new to spark your shindig experience.

So what about those that are like ‘Ha, hell yeah! I know right?!?’ and continue on when you say “Shut. Up.”??? Well, they are gonna take your shindig to another level you may or may not be ready for. In fact, they will keep you close like the conservative ones, but you may lose them in the crowd that will be fawning over them all night. They can be your networking wing-person and your crazy BF at the same time. Be warned though, these may be fast and confusing types of relationships that will leave you scratching your head. You won’t know if y’all are going steady or just a crush playing footsies like your middle school boyfriend/girlfriend at Thanksgiving dinner.

How do I know??? Trust , as a person on both sides of the overactive and mundane spectrums and listening to more than sometimes what I can handle of people telling me their life stories…I have definitely experienced my share of all the above and been the person on the other side. Ask your friends, if you ain’t scared, what they think of you when y’all go out.  Get that inner reflection from a non-biased sort. I love asking off guard to pals and colleagues alike what I am doing to hinder or help a relationship. It is awesome to be able to improve positive in your ways. Or if you like being a rude son of a gun or an overachieving people pleaser, by all means DO YOU. No one should like you more than you.

There is so much that you can learn about yourself and others if YOU just shut up. So do it. Shut. Up. (I mean that in the nicest way)

Adventure on.

JB