Just because..

Note to self.

Just because it's Christmas and..
Just because it's there...
Doesn't mean you have to eat it!

Remember, there will be more food later or tomorrow.

You are not starving. You did not have to eat everything you ate yesterday and you do not have to eat everything again today. There is more food, there will be more food.

Just because you want it and can eat it doesn't mean you should!

Just because you did not gain any weight this entire year doesn't mean you need to eat all the creme puffs, cookies and candies you want.

Just because it's Christmas does not make it okay to overeat

Merry Christmas!

Well, I am mad at myself. We took the camera to my parents last night and never took a picture. Not one! Not anyone. We will be sorry for that someday and I already am.

I am the same weight today as I was on January 1, 2010. Considering the average person gains 2 pounds a year I guess that is a good thing, however, considering I wanted to lose weight that isn't so good.

On a brighter note, I do not need to eat everything in the house right now, just because its there. We will still have food come tomorrow. I noticed when we moved to the kitchen last night at our house we all sat and munched just because it was on the table. Mindless eating. I preach against it!

Merry Christmas everyone!

Chocoholic

Hi, My name is Peggi and I am a Chocoholic. I know that a small portion of dark chocolate is good for you. That isn't the problem. However, the two or three small candy bars, the handful of chocolate covered almonds, or the chocolate covered cherries are. I am trying so hard to reduce the body fat, and to lose the belly. I love working out and that is not a problem either. However, the chocolate is the problem.

I think I either have to give it up completely or find a way to just limit it and stick to it.

Going to try severly limiting it and see how that goes.

Wish me luck

Know better

Why oh Why do I feel the need to do this every so often? I know better. I know to get up and do something, I know to keep busy, I know to drink water. I know! Yet, last night was one of those nights. Home alone and enjoying it! I did Zumba, the rebounder, the hula hoop, weights, etc. Then I sat and ate. Yep, I ate and ate and ate. If it was food and in the house I ate it. Pumpkin roll, lots of it after a salad for dinner. Nuts, not just any plain old nut, oh no, I had creme brulle nuts, lots of them too, finish it off with 2 yep, 2 Reeses cups. Someone just shoot me! LOL, up a pound today. Feeling bloated, swollen and ready to start over. LOL, not start over eating. Start over with drinking my water, eating my veggies, getting my workout on. Get back to the tracking and glad that tomorrow is Monday and I will be back to work.

Holiday weekend

2 of my 4 days off are gone. They really do go by quickly. Hubby left for camp this morning, so my next two days are mine and mine alone. Don't get me wrong, I love him to pieces, but sometimes you just need a day to yourself. This is my time! I have plans. When did I get to the age where time alone and cleaning, decorating etc was fun? That is my plan for the next two days. I want this house cleaned, and decorated and ready for the holidays.

However, considering I work up a pound heavier this morning it is also my time to eat a bit healthier, a bit less and move a bit more. Zumba will be in the picture, along with dancing around the living room with the Sirius music on the tv. I want to go back to work on Monday at the same weight or less than before the Thanksgiving holiday. That is my goal.

My other goal involves losing a bit of weight before Zumba workshop in January. That one I really need to focus on. Going to need to get back to basics and get a bit more serious about my nutrition.

Zumba Basics First Workout

Well, that was sure fun. First workout with Zumba Basics. Doesn't seem to be real complicated and I like the way the dvd's show the steps, slow and easy then fast. I have trouble keeping up and some of the time I am just standing there and watching, but don't think its going to take long to learn those basic steps. The ladies and I are going to have fun with this. Should be interesting and I am anxious to have time to get back down and do some more. Not going to be able to until tomorrow though. I have weight management class to teach this morning, the club this afternoon and another class tonight after closing. I love my life.

Less than 2 months

Ok, today I realised I have less than 2 months until I go to take the zumba workshop. I have never done Zumba, although the dvd's are coming tomorrow. Today I noticed my aerobic endurance is not what I would like it to be before taking this class. I do not want to get there and not be able to keep up, plus we will be teaching 2 half hour classes back to back at the club, which means to Zumba an hour. I need to increase my endurance and learn these dvd's. this is going to be my challenge in the next 2 months. When you do a workout make it either Zumba or aerobic endurance on treadmill. Try for 4 weekly, on top of Curves Circuit.

Oh, remember to fit in reading and studying too! And the club

Certification

Now that we seem to finally have the business up and running and I can have a bit of free time I am back on course with my studies. I have set some goals for the upcoming new year. Four to be exact, two personal, two for the business.

One personal goal is to finish my Personal Trainer Certification through the NCSF and I have started studying again this past few weeks. This could be very beneficial to my ladies and I really want this. Hopefully by next Dec it will be done. Maybe sooner, but am giving myself the year. Another personal goal is to reduce the body fat%. That one may be tougher yet!

A goal for the business is to have 200 members. All active members. That is not unrealistic when looking at the numbers and at the area.

We are having a Christmas Party Dec 15, so that should be fun. My half days off right now, can be spent planning that and studying.

Halloween

Halloween at the club was fun. A fair amount of our ladies dressed up and pictures will be posted on our facebook page. Wanted to share these two that were taken with the cell phone. Don't we look cute.

It is working out well having my sister there and nice to have some time off. I need to start using that free time better. To many things I need to be doing outside of the club for some marketing, studying, etc. Can't always just come home and be a load although I enjoy that to.

John is at camp today and I am staying home and doing some much needed housework and reading. Enjoy your day everyone! Make it a great day

long time

Feels like a long, long time since I have taken time to post anything here. Life has a way of getting me all off track lately. Too many things to do and not enough time to do them. Owning a business is keeping me extremely busy even when not working. It seems my mind is always there and there is always something that needs to be done. I love it though and it is really paying off. We have increased our membership and have about 180 members. It is really quite fun most of the time, although I must say having that many women can be quite taxing at times.

We hired my sister, Cheri a few months ago and that is working out quite well, gives me a bit more time out of there and the extra help somedays with both of us there is great. This week I will be at a health fair all day on Wed at Osram Sylvania, it runs from 6:30 to 4. I am not really looking forward to that at all. Hopefully though, we will get some exposure and possibly a new member or two. We are running a really great promotion right now that runs out the end of the month. They can join for a $30 enrollment fee right now which is pretty good pricing. I can offer that to the ladies at Osram.

This weekend was the convention in Atlantic City, really wish we could have went but with being in Texas in July it wasn't in the cards. Possibly next year.

Our incentives are going extremely well, so that is good. The ladies love the "shoe tokens" and being able to earn them and buy things.

All in all things are good right now. Make it a great day everyone. Hope to be back soon.

Weight Managment Class

Things are going well at the club. We have added new members again this week. One walked in the door at closing yesterday, so we got most of her paperwork done and she will be back in tomorrow morning. Cheri signed up her first member and did a great job on it. she signed one of our county commissioners. Way to go!

We are planning on starting the weight managment class in October. Ihave it scheduled for the 5th. One class at 11 and one at 5. This is going to mean moving the tv though, so going to need a small stand for it unless we use the laptop for the morning class. Think its just going to be a smaller tv than what I had originally planned.that would be okay, we don't have a lot of room and it would save a bit on the cost. I am anxious to see how it works. It will mean me doing the class in the morning from the relaxation room while Paula watches the club. the night class will be done after closing. Will try it and make adjustments if need be as we go.

Wish I had power point and know how to use it but the tv may just be easier anyways.

On another note, my daughter started her new job at the jail this past week and seems to be enjoying it. It sounds like it should be quite a fascinating position and I am just so darn proud of her. Both of my kids are pretty settled and doing well, I sure do love and miss them both though.

Make it a great day everyone.

Dormant

Feels like fall. A chilly day and I think I am going dormant, like our fish and turtles. Just didn't feel like doing much. We did get to visit my parents and that was nice, saw my brother and his wife, and sister and husband. so it was a great start to the day. Then we even stopped at the club and greased and cleaned part of the machines. That really needed done. The dormant part happened once we got home. Just lazy most of the day. Enjoyed some reading though and that is something that I don't often do anymore.

It has been a beautiful summer here and i Have been inside for the major part of it. what with buying Curves, time is not my own. Then with this three day weekend, it has been so cool that I haven't been outside much at all. Did get some much needed housecleaning done though and that felt great. Saturday I got the entire living room done top to bottom.

I don't know how I would deal with living somewhere that has nice weather year round. We talk about it, but I think I kind of like chilly, cool days sometimes to hibernate. Not often mind you, hate the thought of winter coming, but sometimes its a nice break.

Loving Life

Things at the club have been going extremely well. We are growing, I am up to about 174 members although some of them are not active right now. I am trying to reach them to see if they are returning or not. I hate numbers in the system just for the sake of having numbers, I want them accurate. My sister, Cheri, started working with us last week and that also seems to be going well. I like having her there and wish we could use her even more, but do need to watch payroll. I am confident we will continue to grow and this will be more than likely. I get questioned quite often about Curves and continue to hand out free weekly passes to people I meet and talk to everywhere. One day in line at Save A Lot, the next to the teller at the bank who comments that she needs to exercise and "what do we do there" Perfect opportunity and hate to let one go by.

Paula installed new program on the computer and is making her and Cher business cards copied off the set up for mine, she is a whiz on the computer and is good to have around.

I am bummed that we did the weight management program, Phase 1 this week and I only lost 1 pound . However, I have been messing with that for about 3 weeks now and down a total of 3 pounds. Plus, I cheated a few times. Snacks at Glorias purse party on Friday, dinner at Ponderosa last night. If I would have stayed true to it, I am sure I would have been down about another 3. My fault.

Happy Sunday friends, Make it a great day! Keep on moving.

Sister

Yesterday was Cheris' first day working at the club. She gave away quite a few shoe tokens, everyone who came in got one. She is working with me again today. But think today is going to be mainly on the circuit and getting to know our ladies. yesterday was about a lot of paperwork. I signed up one new member last night but Cher had already left so I left the paperwork for her to do today. Want to make sure she has some time with the computer part of it.

I called Windstream last week and had the rollover phone line taken off and made a designated fax line, then had them add voice mail. I have been calling them daily and finally found out someone entered my order wrong and that is why I still don't have voice mail. Should have it today sometime.

I really feel comfortable with my decision to have Cheri come to work, this should be fun and good for all of us. Her and Paula are talking like we need a meeting once in a while so can look at adding that to our schedule.

I am the luckiest lady alive I think, my own fantastic business, two wonderful employees, and 170 members who are also friends. A fantastic husband of 6 years on top of that. Can life get any better?

An awesome start

What a great way to start a day. Slept in a bit, don't work until 2:30 today. Rebounded by the pond and did a yardwalk, first one in ages as a cool down. Burnt 219 calories, which is my recommended daily amount and you know that I will be doing the Curves circuit yet today. Tonight is our cpr class, will be glad to have that done and out of the way for a year. Next week we are doing the first aid class and then that will be done too.

We have had a great week at the club and signed up 4 new members. Yeah! Woo hoo.

My sister starts work on Monday, give us a great big Woo Hoo here, we are both so excited about that. I may see if she wants to work the entire day with me instead of just the 10 to 5 I have her scheduled. LOL

Make it a great day everyone, its an absolutely gorgeous day here in Pa.

Life

Well, my life has sure been different since buying a Curves Franchise. My life seems to revolve 24/7 around the club and I guess that is to be expected. Even when I am not there I am thinking what needs to be done, or what is next, or what advertising do I need to do, or what incentive can we run, or how can I do this? Whew! Can wear a person out just thinking about it. Add to that the fact that I am now up at 4:30 most days and not home until around 7:30 and it sure is busy.
It's funny, but I love it. This is my baby now, my chance to really do something to help other women get healthy and fit. I am planning on starting the weight management classes in Oct and have tons of stuff to do before then. I really need to learn how to teach the class. There are dvd's that go along with the class that we need to watch, so I need a tv for the club. another expense, but a needed one. The computer screen isn't big enough..hmm, unless I buy a bigger screen. Then there is the fact that we will probably do classes sometimes in the relaxation room. If we do them during the day. Hmm, to many things to think about at 6 in the morning. Okay, stop! My mind needs a rest. And it doesn't seem to get one.

Hope y'all enjoy your Sunday! I've got things to get done!

Phase 2

I've been doing the Curves Weight Management Plan since last Sunday. I am down 3.2 pounds this week. Now, it gets scary. Now, I do phase 2 which involves eating more. Now,up to 1500 calories for the next 23 days. The protein is the kicker. I am doing the plan calling for higher protein and I have trouble getting that much in. Even with the protein shakes. this is something I really need to watch in everything that I eat.

I've goofed up a few times, but it still worked.

Weight management plan

I am doing fairly well on the Curves weight management program. Wasn't actually going to start it yet but decided I may as well give it a try. Haven't done too badly but not as good as I had hoped. We don't eat a lot of meat so its hard to get the protein in. I am using the higher protein plan and using protein shakes for a snack or breakfast. However, I did great with it today. Had a steak for dinner. that doesn't happen often. I am down about 2.5 pounds since Sunday.

got down to the track tonight for a real nice walk/jog around it. Was gone about 50 minutes, burnt 316 calories. Not bad.

Hubby went to camp last night and I had the day and evening to myself. a real nice change. Went and got my nails done this morning and got some cleaning done. Feels good to catch up on much needed housework. going down to see my mom and dad tomorrow. We brought them small gifts from Texas and haven't gotten them to them yet.It was their anniversary last weekend.

This arrived in my mailbox this morning from Sparkpeople. I think its very appropriate for me right now considering my new business. I do want to please the ladies and keep them happy, however, I also need them doing things right and some of them may not be very happy with me at times. This article was a great reminder that you cannot please everyone all the time.

"The dangers of people pleasing

No matter how hard you try, no matter how many hours you spend pondering and planning, and regardless of how hard you try, you absolutely cannot please everyone. It is impossible. So do yourself a favor and stop now, before you drive yourself farther toward insanity. There are many drawbacks to being a people-pleaser. A big one is that you often put yourself in a position of subservience. Sometimes you even put yourself last, which helps no one. Remember that helping yourself and doing what you feel is important should be valued. Find worth in your own opinions and viewpoint, and don't let your desire to please others compel you to keep yourself in the background. Falling short of perfection only proves that you are a normal human being."

Club Camp

Should be interesting. Anxious to see what all we learn at club camp and how intense it really is. Have always wanted to see Texas. But in the summer??

Off shopping

Looking forward to a fun day today, off shopping with Cher and mom. Cher needs new active wear for our trip to Texas. We will be in the air next week at this time. Should be interesting. Texas in July. I have always wanted to see Texas, there and Hawaii. don't know that we will get to see much of Texas. From the sounds of it we will be in class most of the time and it will be hot when not. Our hotel is in a shopping center and looks nice. The hotel is 2 years old and we are both looking forward to this. More studying to be done this week, so need to know these things before we get there.

July Fourth Picnic

At The Inn Crowd Camp..Was a nice day, sunny, warm, family and friends. Wish my kids could have been here.

Open House

Just realised I never posted the pics of our open house/ribbon cutting. Here is one.

Rebounding

Rebounding by the pond this morning, a favorite at home exercise. Burnt 202 calories in 35 minutes. Heart rate high and feels good! Really worked it hard! Sun is shining, I am off and life is good. Make it a great day everyone.

Check out the benefits of rebounding. Google rebounder and see all the health info you receive. This is an excellent workout, good for the heart, bones, muscles, lymph system. Good for every age and every disease!

Curves Open House

The big day is finally here. Open House is Wed and thursday, June 16 and 17. Our ribbon cutting is Wed June 16 at 11:30. We have 17 vendors coming in for the day, they will be set up down throughout the Franklin Center. We have a large variety of vendors, Silpada and Lia Sophia Jewelry, Mary Kay and Amway, Pampered Chef and Kettle Korn, Massage and a nurse practitioner, along with many others. Each of the vendors will be giving a door prize, so you can register to win at each table. Curves has over 15 door prizes also which you can register for.

My members are donating refreshements, my members will also be showing the equipment and how to do the Curves circuit. Remember its a 30 minute workout designed for women that is fun, fast and safe. Curves circuit incorporates all 5 components of a workout. Warm up, cardio, strength, cool down and stretching in that 30 minutes and can burn up to 500 calories in that 30 minutes.

We are still accepting appointments to give free fitness assessments, however you do not need one to attend. It is just to make life a bit simpler these two days.

Please feel free to bring a friend. We hope to see you there. come have fun and see what it is all about.

The Dash

LIFE BETWEEN THE “DASH”

I read of a man who stood to speak
at the funeral of a friend.
He referred to the dates on her tombstone
from the beginning...to the end.

He noted that first came her date of birth
and spoke the following date with tears,
but he said what mattered most of all
was the “dash” between those years. (1934 -1998)

For that dash represents all the time
that she spent alive on earth...
and now only those who loved her
know what that little line is worth.

For it matters not, how much we own;
the cars...the house...the cash,
what matters is how we live and love
and how we spend our “dash”.

So think about this long and hard...
are there things you'd like to change?
For you never know how much time is left,
that can still be rearranged.

If we could just slow down enough
to consider what's true and real,
and always try to understand
the way other people feel.

And be less quick to anger,
and show appreciation more
and love the people in our lives
like we've never loved before.

If we treat each other with respect,
and more often wear a smile...
remembering that this special “dash”
might only last a little while.

So, when your eulogy's being read
with your life's actions to rehash...
would you be proud of the things they say
about how you spent your “dash”?
Copyright by Linda Ellis

3 Simple Changes for Better Health - Natural Promise: A Guide to Healthy Eating - Everyday Health Blogs

3 Simple Changes for Better Health - Natural Promise: A Guide to Healthy Eating - Everyday Health Blogs

Daddy's Poem

I received this in an email this morning. Very fitting for Memorial Day. Wanted to share it with you all. It made me cry.


Her hair was up in a pony tail,
>>Her favorite dress tied with a bow.
>>Today was Daddy's Day at school,
>>And she couldn't wait to go.
>>But her mommy tried to tell her,
>>That she probably should stay home.
>>Why the kids might not understand,
>>If she went to school alone.
>>But she was not afraid;
>>She knew just what to say.
>>What to tell her classmates
>>Of why he wasn't there today.
>>But still her mother worried,
>>For her to face this day alone.
>>And that was why once again,
>>She tried to keep her daughter home.
>>But the little girl went to school
>>Eager to tell them all.
>>About a dad she never sees
>>A dad who never calls.
>>There were daddies along the wall in back,
>>For everyone to meet.
>>Children squirming impatiently,
>>Anxious in their seats
>>One by one the teacher called
>>A student from the class.
>>To introduce their daddy,
>>As seconds slowly passed.
>>At last the teacher called her name,
>>Every child turned to stare.
>>Each of them was searching,
>>A man who wasn't there.
>>'Where's her daddy at?'
>>She heard a boy call out.
>>'She probably doesn't have one,'
>>Another student dared to shout.
>>And from somewhere near the back,
>>She heard a daddy say,
>>'Looks like another deadbeat dad,
>>Too busy to waste his day.'
>>The words did not offend her,
>>As she smiled up at her Mom.
>>And looked back at her teacher,
>>Who told her to go on.
>>And with hands behind her back,
>>Slowly she began to speak.
>>And out from the mouth of a child,
>>Came words incredibly unique.
>>'My Daddy couldn't be here,
>>Because he lives so far away.
>>But I know he wishes he could be,
>>Since this is such a special day.
>>And though you cannot meet him,
>>I wanted you to know.
>>All about my daddy,
>>And how much he loves me so.
>>He loved to tell me stories
>>He taught me to ride my bike.
>>He surprised me with pink roses,
>>And taught me to fly a kite.
>>We used to share fudge sundaes,
>>And ice cream in a cone.
>>And though you cannot see him.
>>I'm not standing here alone.
>>'Cause my daddy's al ways with me,
>>Even though we are apart
>>I know because he told me,
>>He'll forever be in my heart'
>>With that, her little hand reached up,
>>And lay across her chest
>>Feeling her own heartbeat,
>>Beneath her favorite dress.
>>And from somewhere here in the crowd of dads,
>>Her mother stood in tears.
>>Proudly watching her daughter,
>>Who was wise beyond her years.
>>For she stood up for the love
>>Of a man not in her life.
>>Doing what was best for her,
>>Doing what was right.
>>And when she dropped her hand back down,
>>Staring straight into the crowd.
>>She finished with a voice so soft,
>>But its message clear and loud.
>>'I love my daddy very much,
>> he's my shining star.
>>And if he could, he'd be here,
>>But heaven's just too far.
>>You see he is an American soldier
>>And died just this past year
>>When a roadside bomb hit his convoy
>>And taught us all to fear.
>>But sometimes when I close my eyes,
>>it's like he never went away.'
>>And then she closed her eyes,
>>And saw him there that day.
>>And to her mothers amazement,
>>She witnessed with surprise.
>>A room full of daddies and children,
>>All starting to close their eyes.
>>Who knows what they saw before them,
>>Who knows what they felt inside.
>>Perhaps for merely a second,
>>They saw him at her side.
>>'I know you're with me Daddy,'
>>To the silence she called out.
>>And what happened next made believers,
>>Of those once filled with doubt.
>>Not one in that room could explain it,
>>For each of their eyes had been closed.
>>But there on the desk beside her,
>>Was a fragrant long-stemmed rose.
>>And a child was blessed, if only for a moment,
>>By the love of her shining star.
>>And given the gift of believing,
>>That heaven is never too far.

My sons new toy

How do I feel about this? I am happy for him, worried about him and excited all at one time. My feelings on Harleys are so mixed, so many good memories, so many bad.

My Top 10 Anti-Aging Foods!- Cindy's Flat Abs Diet

My Top 10 Anti-Aging Foods!- Cindy's Flat Abs Diet

Open House

Open House is coming quick and I will be glad when it is over with. We have got about 2 weeks to go and the pressure of scheduling these appointments is getting intense. We have done everything that has been asked so I am just figuring what happens, happens at this point. Most of the invitations are out, all 3000 of them. I am still calling former members and will continue to do that. We have three appointments scheduled so far.

Back to Basics incentive is starting Tuesday at the club. Relaxation Room is in pretty good shape.

I'm on a three day weekend and it feels wonderful. Haven't had one of those in years, maybe not ever.

Make it a great day!

PR and Marketing

My sister is coming up to work at the club for a few hours this morning. She is going through the training with me, and likes to work once in awhile when she has time. While she is there this morning, I am going out to area business and asking for donations for door prizes for our open house. I don't often get time to get out of there during normal hours so this should be a nice break. I have a list. I love lists and now make them daily. things to do, places to go, people to see. I also have a list of where to hang flyers, who to give them to, etc.

this should be a productive day.

more pictues

My kids and I in Vegas after Michelles graduation and the second one is Chers costumes and me.

Congratulations Daughter

Well, she did it. My daughter finally graduated with her Masters Degree in Las Vegas on Saturday, May 8. How fantastic! We all flew out to spend this time with her, Howie, Anton, John and myself. It was my first Mothers Day with both of my kids in 9 years and was pretty special. We even went to see Cher at Caesers Palace, what an awesome show that was.

I am so proud of my daughter, to think she did this all on her own, with no real help from any of us. Alot of years of studying, working and finally she is done. Congratulations Michelle!

Walking

A gorgeous day here in Pa. yesterday. I got out for two nice, long walks. First one at the track, second one over Plum, Peach, 555, Apple, Teaberry etc. Coming home I looked to see if the lady was out that I talk to often when I walk. I haven't seen her since last summer and don't remember her name. think Cheri was with me last time I spoke to her. I sent an email to a neighbor who knows her to find out her name. I wrote it down somewhere but can't find it. Her puppy is Spike though. anyways, found out she is 90. she moves so quickly and is so spry that is hard for me to believe. It really makes me wonder though. How some people live so long and others go so young. I know that a good part of that is staying active, eating healthy, not smoking, etc. I know that the genes play a big role in it also. I cannot believe this lady is 90. She lives alone, in her own home still and takes care of a dog. Goes to show that it can be done.

Enjoy the day everyone.

My daughter

I am just so damn proud of my darling daughter. Yesterday was her last day of school, after God only knows how many years. I would have to stop and figure it out and we all know my math is terrible. Michelle is finally, after all these years, graduating with her Masters Degree in social work. She is now an MSW LSW and I sure hope I have those initials right. Michelle has done it on her own and we are so proud of her. She has sure had some ups and downs in these years, getting married, moving to Seattle, her husband going over to fight in the war, moving to Vegas, losing her beloved father to cancer, and finally here we are graduating. What a road it has been, but she has persevered and she has won! We are so damn proud of you dolly. Now, sit back, relax and enjoy reading a good book just for the fun of it. I love and miss you dolly and will see you soon! You are my darling daughter and I am just so damn proud of you!

Heaven

Read this on facebook and loved it.

"I wish Heaven had a phone so I could hear your voice again.. I thought of you today, but that is nothing new. I thought about you yesterday, and days before that too. I think of you in silence, I often speak your name. All I have are memories and a picture in a frame. Your memory is a keepsake, from which i'll never part. God has you in his arms.. I have you in my heart."

Busy

My life has changed about 190% in the past few months. It seems I don't have a second that my mind is not on the business. We are planning a large two day open house/ribbon cutting for June 16 and 17. CDS requires it to be "party like" which should be a lot of fun, plus a lot of work getting it all ready. I am brining in different vendors. have asked Lia Sophia, Silpada, Pampered Chef, Kettle Korn so far and they are all making arrangements to be involved. My mind is constantly thinking what can I do for the open house, plus what needs to be done now, plus still taking all the training classes to learn everything from working the machines to maintaining them to brining in new members to keeping them happy with incentives. Some days you will find me cleaning the toilets, the next minute on the phone scheduling ribbon cuttings or new appt. I absolutely love it!

Family Health Day

Today is quite different for me, actually the entire weekend has been. I closed the club at noon on Friday for Good Friday. Didn't reopen until this morning at 7 am so we had a long weekend. Mine was actually even a bit longer. Paula worked Thursday night and Frday am, so I have been off since Thursday afternoon. Something unheard of in my previous world of retail.

Today, I will be at the high school for Family Health Day 2010. We are setting up at 10 am and it starts at 1 with senior citizens, followed by the general public from 2 to 6. Should be an interesting day. Cheri is coming up to help me set up and I wish she could stay, but she will be leaving about the time we open. We are taking over the chest/back machine and a board and of course tons of literature. We are giving away free month certificates so I hope to drum up some interest.

The weekend was beautiful, sunny and warm. We spent a good part of it working in the yard and cleaning out the pond.

Hope to see some friends at the health fair today!

80's

How did we ever manage to get a day like today and to get two in a row is unbelievable this time of year. 80's, sunshine, pond is running, fountain going, spent the weekend outside cleaning up the yard. How wonderful! Now going to study if I can see the laptop screen enough to do that.

It's done

It is finally done. Curves became legally mine on St Patricks Day, March 17, 2010. Been mine for about a week and a half now, although I have been running it since Feb 5. We have gained over 30 new members now. things are going well and I love it. I am working most days from 7 am to 7 pm. Not getting much exercise besides our circuit but that is fine and I can feel the difference in my biceps, triceps and quads. Those machines are working it! Two months ago I had never even considered buying a Curves or owning my own business. How quickly things can change.

The reporter did a wonderful article and it did bring us some new business. Everyone is still talking about that article. Even had a phone call from a member in Florida who is coming home and wants to come back, she had read it there.Amy is coming back on Tuesday night to do a follow up article and picture and the food bank is coming for the groceries also. So that will be good and they will be gone.

Daily Press

Well, tomorrow i will be front page news. I had called to have a reporter come do a story for us about the food bank. we are collecting donations for the Christian Food Bank and anyone who joins Curves this month can do so without a sign up fee. I wanted that out there. I did not expect them to include a feature story on Curves in general, but they ran it all together, including a picture and will be front page on Monday. I am kind of nervous about that but guess it can't hurt. Hopefully it all sounds okay.

I am thinking it should all be final this week or next week at the latest. Melanie and Ashley were days late mailing back their final papers so it could hold it up a bit. Curves should have them hopefully the beginning of the week. All that is needed is for them to assign me a new franchise number and mail our copies back. Then its done, signed, sealed and delivered. Hopefully soon. I am still thinking of a party for my ladies.

and a few more

My biggest question right now is what to do about my Personal Trainer Certification. I was to have been done in May, that is not going to happen. I now have classes to take for Curves along with a 10 week club development program. Could file for an extension, that would cost me more $$ and give me 6 months to complete it. Going to have to think this through.

My new business

Finally, some new pictures of my place.

My life has changed about 99% in the past month and a half. I still cannot believe how I fell into this. Things have been moving very smoothly, please pray that it continues. The final legal documents are in the mail back to Curves. I had them signed,notarized and mailed yesterday. Now, it is just a matter of Curves Int adding their names and seals etc Hopefully a few more days but could be weeks yet. My name is on the door. Signs came and did that the other day. Everything I wanted done is done, carpets cleaned, desk moved, door changed, locks changed it is all done. All that is left to do is change electric, software programs, music license etc and I started all that yesterday.

I realise I have not been on Spark much, its hard to do with working 12 hour days most days. I do sometimes check in from work but right now there is so much computer stuff that needs updated its just not always possible.

We started my training on thursday, I have a 10 week club development program I have to do. Its interesting.
I am learning a lot. Any facebook users out there? You can check it out at Curves of St Marys. However, the page is really new. No pics yet.

Club Development

This should really be interesting. Curves Int now does a 10 week Club Development program via computer and phone. We are starting mine today. Curves Int called last night and had me print out tons of things that we need to start training today. We use a computer site that lets us both be on at the same time and train that way. I am excited about it, however, most of the training to start looks like things I have been doing for the past month. I realise my situation is a bit different considering the fact that most owners don't just up and leave before its final. Curves Int was surprised to hear that I have been running the place for the past month. I don't feel like I have done too badly either. I have gained 9 new members, finished the reports that needed done, cleaned up the entire place, changed locks, cleaned carpets, ordered business cards. 'and the list goes on. We even have a reporter coming to do a story on the Food Drive.

I have set up a facebook page also for Curves. Not much on it yet, but it will take some time to get it running. I am looking forward to starting this training, it gets me one day closer to being done with all of this.

Pre approval

An email from Curves yesterday tells me congratulations on pre approval and welcome to the Curves International family. the papers are now at the legal department and I should have the legal documents within 10 days, sign and return the hard copies, and then wait again for it to be processed. Looks like with 10 days to 3 weeks it should all be done. They included a list of things to be done once the legal documents are on the way back to Curves, things like change over accounts on phone, power, rent, etc. We are coming down the home stretch! I cannot wait.

the Good and the Bad

I seem to have an awful lot of good in my life lately and I really appreciate that. We got the desk moved last night and got it all hooked back up and working properly and it looks great. The ladies all commented on how nice and warm and welcoming it looks. It should, I was up there till 9:30 last night and back up by 6:30 this morning. I had left a mess and wanted it cleaned up before anyone got in there. I wasn't happy with where we had the monitor and wanted to move it about a foot to the left. Went to cut the cable ties and cut the heck out of my thumb. It bled buckets! I am on an aspirin a day remember and I cut the fleshy part really deep with really sharp scissors. Finally, got it to stop bleeding, put about 5 bandaids on it and went back to work, but carefully.

Later while cleaning the back room, it started all over again. I had to have Paula cut the bandaids off and we had to stop the bleeding and wrap it all over again. It now has about 4 bandaids over top a good portion of paper towel. LOl, it worked.

Really didn't think I'd get my contact out of the left eye with it wrapped like that, I can't even get the thumb up to my eye its so fat. got the contact out, not sure how with my right hand.

I am off the weekend and hoping to relax a bit.

Disappointed

I am so disappointed. We did good sending all the paperwork in to Curves and they say it is perfect, however, we missed sending the articles of organization and the copies of the stock showing it had been transferred. Curves Int. called last week that they needed this. We just got it faxed yesterday, it has slowed us down and it could take another month or so before its final. Jan, who I am dealing with there, assures me there is not going to be a problem. That things are fine and it is going to be mine, then says officially though, she cannot tell me that. I just want this done and there is going to be a party at my place when it is.

I have signed up to participate in the health fair, family day at the high school in April and will be taking one of the machines, one board, and the body fat analyizer with me. That should be fun.

My computer guy is coming tonight or supposed to be, however, we are to be getting another real bad storm so its anyones guess. i am so excited about getting these things done. The carpet guy is coming Sunday to clean the carpets, I still need the locks done, but that is the final thing for these big expenses.

We are almost there and would have been if we had done those shares of stock, and the articles of organization. Darn it!

Going smoothly

Things are moving along rather smoothly at my place. I have now been there two weeks on my own. Hard to believe, it has gone so quickly. I am there normally 12 hours a day and come home still thinking of things I wanted to get done and that is with a list to do!

Curves International called this week and the paperwork is all perfect, thank Goodness, but they needed the "Articles of Incorporation" and to see that the stocks had been transferred to me. They are now at my attorneys office being prepared. I don't know how they slipt through the cracks, but as soon as they are done we can fax them down and that should be pretty much the last thing they need. They will then email us legal documents to sign and return. We are coming down the road to the finish!

Hard to believe this has all happened in one short month. I just looked at Curves a month ago this week.

Going well

The purchase of Curves is so far going extremely well. Curves International called this morning, they need the "articles of corporation faxed to them. So I called to have my attorney do that. She said the paperwork is all commendable and should go through very quickly. Yeah! She is a bit concerned about how low producing this club is, but I am aware of that to some extent anyways.

First week, My place

Well, it is hard to believe but the first week of being at Curves alone has already gone by. It sure went fast and so far, well. Hope that continues. I got the notice back yesterday, the papers all arrived at Curves International in Texas on Monday, the 8th. They are supposed to send pre approval within 10 business days if everything is right with the papers. I am keeping my fingers crossed that all is well. I do not want anything to slow this down. I want the locksmith in to change all the locks and am just waiting for it to be final.

Tomorrow we are doing free protein shakes at my place. I need to get to the store and pick up all the fixings, fruit, yogurt, milk, etc. Should be fun. I have added 4 new members this week. Bought my Miche bag and when I have 10 new members I am going to get a new Chelle for it! Yeah! How cool!

Quotes

I received this quote in an email from "Simple Truths" I loved it and want to share it here.

"Life is not about waiting for the storms to pass...
it's about learning to dance in the rain!"
-Vivian Greene

I have a magnetic board at my place and like to put motivational quotes on it, this is one I will save and have on there. I am planning on changing them weekly. Last week I had National Wear Red Day on it, for womens heart health and it was so neat to walk into a room full of women wearing red and beaming at me yesterday! They were so excited to have this little event.

I am not going in today or tomorrow, and my real test starts on MOnday, I will start working open to close on Monday. I am keeping one part timer, Paula, and she will work Tuesday night, the rest is up to me. I have enough to do to keep me busy when I am there. The back room still needs cleaned out. I am still trying to learn all the computer stuff and now have added quick books into that. Our first payroll will be on Feb 19 and the accountant will come down and help with that.

My first Curves order came in yesterday, so I have Curves shirts and a water bottle along with 2 bottles for sale. Things are falling into place. I also now have heat and hot water thanks to Tommy. If the paperwork goes as smoothly as everything else has we should be okay.

We wait

Ok, the papers and checks are in the mail as of this afternoon, sent certified mail and they should be there about MOnday. Curves says pre approval comes about 10 business days after receipt of paperwork if all is okay, if they have to return anything to be corrected it will be longer. Final executed legal documents should arrive approximately 3 weeks after paperworks is received if all is okay. We wait, and we wait!

Received notice that the sign shipped and should be here on Tuesday. Still waiting on my Curves clothes and business cards also. We wait!

Hopefully everything is going to go as smoothly as it has so far. Bank accounts are open as of today, have quotes coming in from insurance agencies and have some adds in the works.

Now, we wait. Darn, I hate waiting, I am not a patient person. Never was, never will be.

Sign

The open sign at my place died the other day. I ordered a new one last night, can't wait for it to get here. Its bigger and oval, its an animated, flashing Led light and I love it! Hope it looks really cool in the window! Supposed to be the brightest kind and can be seen in day light from a distance. I am so excited over the stupidest little things. The paperwork is with my attorney, who had some questions so is calling Sandy and the accountant and hopefully we can get that squared away and mailed out. Should take roughly 3 to 4 weeks once that is mailed. My ladies are all so excited about the changes taking place. They are so wonderful. I managed to catch one heck of a cold through all of this. Figures, I guess, haven't had one in years, but lately I haven't been eating my yogurt, or taking my vitamins. Haven't had any real amount of exercise either. Its hard to eat at 4:30 in the morning. Going to change all that starting today though.

I am thinking I may stay home after lunch today and take it easy, the girls are leaving after this week so it may be my last chance for a while for any time off.

Long day

Alarm is set for 4:30 am. I am up at 4:15. I recorded Brothers and Sisters last night and went to bed. Going to be a long day, we meet tonight at 7 pm to sign the paperwork for my place. Then hopefully within a month or so its mine. I think I am going to spend sometime today working in that back room. May as well do it while I still have the girls out front. Will see how that goes, I'd rather be out there with the people. May end up cleaning that up on the weekend after hours sometime.

I have some phone calls I want to get done, estimates on cleaning carpets, changing locks, insurance, etc.

Going to get moving. Make it a great day!

Good for my morale!

I received this note from a lady on facebook today. I don't know her personally but am sure looking forward to meeting her. She made my day.
"omg I saw your messages about curves, are you the new owner of the one in st Marys? if so do you realize how the business is giong to explode? I know I will be joining!!!

I don't know her but love her already! LOL

Hours

The doors we open and close each day decide the lives we live.

- Flora Whittemore, author

This past week has been hectic, a blur really. Learning that Curves was up for sale on Tuesday, looking at and deciding to buy it Wed, turning in notice at work on Thursday. Starting at Curves on Tuesday night. Wow! What a ride its been.

It's about to take another turn, hold on tight! The current owners have decided they want this coming week to be their last week there even though its not officially mine yet. They will both be available if I need something but they want off the schedule. I knew the day would come but didn't expect it to be this soon. I am actually okay with it. I can learn most of what I need from the Curves training manual, cd's and website. I am wondering if I should maybe check with my lawyer for the legalities of it though. Speaking of that, I talked to the accountant yesterday and the money I have spent so far for supplies etc we can expense once I take it over. I placed my first ad yesterday. Nothing major but the Press is doing a Wear Red for Women for Heart Health ad on Feb 4. They called yesterday and Melanie gave me the phone. It will run one day, cost $45 and their won't be any mention of my name, but I had them run a Guest Pass ad for me. Hopefully maybe it will pull some new members. People are all abuzz around town, everyone seems to know its been sold and I guess I should have been prepared for that. I think its all a good thing. My ladies are so excited and it shows. Word of mouth is the best advertising I can get.

My life is about to change again and its going to be one wild ride. My body is starting to adjust for these changes already. Bedtime has been earlier the past few days and wake up time earlier also, which is exactly what I need with the hours I am keeping. That may make it all a bit easier, which is why I got out of bed at 5 on a Sat.

Come for the day, stay for life. I still like that for a motto!

Quote from a friend

A friend had this posted on Facebook, I loved it, so am borrowing it for here. I have no idea who actually wrote it, she learned it in high school. "people change so you learn to let go, things go wrong so that you can appreciate them when they're right, you believe lies so that you eventually learn to trust no one but yourself.. & sometimes good things fall apart so better things can fall together." I don't agree with the trust no one but yourself part. but Like the quote otherwise.

Had a great day at Curves yesterday. Up early this morning, 4:30 am and going back to be there by 7 am. These ladies are awesome and they are as happy to have me there as I am to be there. It is hard there right now sometimes cause I can't be doing all the things I want to be doing. I have so many plans and need to just take it slow.

First Day

I was at my place yesterday from 7 am to 7 pm with coming home for 2 hours while they were closed. It is so energetic, energizing, motivating. I had the best time talking to all of these women. We had 38 members in for the day. We have about 102 members and my goal is to double that in one year. 202 by next January. Add another 100 the following year. Based on the population there they estimate I could potentially have 500 members. I was exhausted when I got home last night but think most of that is from not doing much except sitting, learning, listening and doing some computer stuff. Only time I really moved around was to walk over and talk to members. I am posting a picture here. I love, love, love it! I have free week passes so if any of you want to come check it out please do so. Come for the day, stay for life. Hmm, may make that my motto. I liked it! 'wonder if I heard it somewhere?

The following is a note sent to my by good friend Dianne Smail ""Congrats Peggi! May the Lord Bless your new venture and may you prosper . You have worked hard to achieve this goal. I am sure you will help many women who are looking to change their life style. You will be a good coach and mentor to your customers. The business end will all fall into place. It is the customer/consumer who needs your help! You have a story and a drive like no other! God Bless You!"

Nuts

Life is about to get really, really nuts. Today was my last day at the store. 5 years and I am done. No more furniture sales for me. I am buying Curves! Yeah! going up for training tomorrow morning at 7 am, home around noon, then back in the afternoon for more training. I may be living there for a while. LOL. Not funny actually. Once the sale is final I will probably be there from 7 am to 7 pm, 6 days a week. Should be interesting. There is so much to learn and I have spent hours on the web site and in the training manuals. I am so excited, and just want to get started and have it be mine!

I am so glad that the store didn't make me do a full two week notice period. I just told them Thursday and today was my last day. I am so glad, my mind is going in so many different directions that it is hard to focus there. It is not what I want to be doing. Its hard to focus on furniture when I want to be learning my own business. Now, I am free to do that.

Curves

It is so hard to believe that we are coming up on 5 years since the scary night when I had that first heart attack, was home alone, and didn't have a clue what was happening. It sure didn't act like a heart attack, all full of anxiety, vomiting, pacing, sweating etc. When it happened the second time, just 3 short months later, we had a better idea of what had happened but still no clue why. thank God for Dr. Follansbee in Pittsburgh. Without him I truly would not be here today. All of the doctors there were wonderful, but he truly is the one I credit with finding the cause, and saving my life.

I have often wondered through those years why I was saved? Twice? Being life flighted to a major hospital is something most people never go through once, yet I did it twice. I truly have believed in the years since then that there is something I am meant to do. I believe in the past year, I have found that purpose. I am studying Fitness and Nutrition and taking a course to be certified as personal trainer. My goal is to help people get healthy. What better way to thank God and the doctors for giving me back my life.

Now, I maybe have a new dream to tie into that. Last night I heard a rumor that our local Curves is up for sale. I know the lady who owns it. I am planning on calling her today to find out some information on this. I am so excited and am trying not to be until I learn more about it. Its funny though, years ago when she bought it I had wished I had known it was up for sale. the way I found out about it now is totally ironic. I had called Monday to make a hair appt. I always go on Wed but she could get me in Tuesday night after work. I never go Tuesday night but it worked out well for me. When I got there friends of mine were there that I have not seen in years. We talk on line and when she mentioned Curves up for sale, I was ecstatic! Now to find out some info. What is meant to be is meant to be. I know that. Wish me luck.

Day Off and new goal.

Today is a day off work, no plans, going nowhere. We cancelled on the gym this morning, Cher has stuff she needs done and think we were both burnt out on all the running lately. Feels good to be home for the day. I slept in.

I have a new goal, I want to finish my class and take the class to be certified as Walk Leader for WATP. Looked into it the other day. I can teach class from the Fitness Connection and Paula at the Y said we can probably work something out there also. I was all set to start this until I read more about it and do have to do an at home class before going to the studio. At the studio you have to do a presentation on a walk, along with pass the written test and have to be CPR certified. So that is all another goal for me on this journey. It means waiting until I am finished with the NCSF, so I want to get a move on with this.

Today, means study time. Woo Hoo!

Walk with me

I have started and stopped the map at the bottom of this page many times. This time I have reset it starting on January 1, 2010 and I swear I am going to continue this walk. I want to see how long it takes me to walk across the US. I wear a pedometer daily and have for years so this should be interesting. My goal is 15,000 steps daily but I haven't figured out how long this should take, I may have to do that.