Monday, September 17, 2007

Peace, love and understanding

Bob and I went to a concert last week. It was Elvis Costello and the NC Symphony. Now, Elvis is a blast from my past. He was very popular when I was in college. He toured and performed at UMASS. The big show was sold out. My boyfriend, at the time, and I managed to see him after his show. He played a set with his girlfriend, at the time, with the band The Pogues at the on-campus bar the Cage. In early 1993, I saw him on a snowy St. Patrick's Day concert at Boston Symphony Hall playing his collaboration with the Brodsky Quartet on The Juliet Letters. That was a wonderful night. Now, he's working with a full orchestra!


The concert was held at the Koka Booth Amphitheater in Cary. It was an outdoor concert -- a beautiful night. His performance was strong. He emphasized his anti-war sentiments and love for America. He also seemed happier, talking about his happy marriage and infant twin sons. He joked and belted out some passionate oldies but goodies. He joked that he tries to imagine that we're all the hot young things we used to be when we first discovered him. It seems that the angry young man has grown up, just like the rest of us.

It was a late night for us. We didn't get home until midnight. I even had to wake up the sleeping babysitter--gulp! The very next morning I had to dash to the airport for a trip to Atlanta. I'm not sure why I had to go. I put in some face time with the boss and some VIP authors.

Now, back to the ususal work week...

Tuesday, September 11, 2007

Working out is hard to do

I've made it through a full week of working out at the gym. I'm sore, but already feeling stronger. It's really hard to do, but so is doing nothing.

I had a session today with my personal trainer. We worked on my arms, legs and abs. She is very good. I think she can borrow clothes from Zoe.

Since joining the gym, I've been every work day. I haven't gone on the weekend yet, but I will add that in the next month or so. Our weekends are so busy with housework, projects, friends, and the kids.

My goal is to stick with this for a year. One down, fifty-one to go!

Thursday, September 06, 2007

A new school year

At the beginning of every school year, I used to get excited and anxious to start new habits and to focus my energies. The fall used to be my favorite season. It's changed a bit since we moved to Chapel Hill where the spring is amazing. We never had much spring in Boston. I love crisp fall days with sunny blue skies and fresh cool air.

Even though I am no longer in school, I still try to re-start in the fall. I try to take on new challenges and start new projects.

This past month, I have been focusing on getting in shape. I joined a local gym. I signed up for a year membership! I've even been going to the gym. (Please don't faint!) And, a first, I met with a personal trainer. I'm learning how to use the machines and get on a program. I'm excited because I have never had the training and individual attention that I clearly need.

Wish me luck, and no injuries!