About Uncomfortable

So, I mentioned several posts back that I have been accepted into a leadership/self development program. I'm really enjoying it and finding the development process something I needed a long time ago. The learning is in regards to communicating, personalities (good & bad) and how negotiating the art of feedback vs. advice enhances relationships. We have a choice when we get feedback -- take it and learn or choose to dismiss it because we got hurt.

But, out of all the cool things we did today and will do tomorrow, it only took 10 minutes to get "real" and "raw". Picture this, a room full of 22 women and we had to pick 2 or 3 and share with them why we admired them. Not so bad, right? Well, the task gets better.

This exercise felt like good cop bad cop. Part two was again, picking 2 or 3 women and sharing with them. But, this time we had to share why we either shy away from them or have not taken time to get to know them. Yikes! It's one thing to write your thoughts down on paper but we had to actually verbalize it.

It was really tough but so liberating if done right. There were a few tears by some but then we learned how to push through those moments and have these tough conversations. Perceptions vs. reality is so much of misunderstanding.

I really admired some of the discussions. Its not easy, but I challenge you to have just one tough conversation this week and then notice how it feels after its done. It could truly be a gift. I'm really proud of the work we did today. Not that I need this test everyday :) but, it can be done.

Love,
Jen

Laugh!

As I entered the gym this morning, I was greeted by a lovely elderly man who was holding the door for me. I noticed he was looking at me with a classic Andy Rooney squint! I thought how sweet it was that he was "looking out for me".

Then, we move to our respective cardio machines and after several minutes I look over at him and he is reading the paper as if it was printed in microscopic font!

A coin would have been difficult to slide between the paper and his nose. I am sure the Dallas Morning News felt a bit violated of personal space.

Yes, we know age can affect our site but I wondered why he wouldn't have glasses or a magnifier (I'm sure it's the same thing people wonder about me and hand prosthetics).

I watched him for a while until a very sweet lady says "honey, where are your glasses?" He just looked at her and said, "Who are you? I can't see you." Ha!. The sweet lady was his wife! I enjoyed watching the caring and playfulness of this couple.

Differences can be a connection that can enhance your relationships. Embrace and find the funny! I'm thinking his looking at me was trying to see whether or not his eyes were playing tricks on him. Hands, no hands?

Have a great day!
Jen

Not Taking Ourselves Too Seriously

First, happy Friday and Halloween Eve! What a week I have had. We finally have sun today in Dallas with no rain. One more day of this and I was about to buy a wetsuit. :)

I attended a luncheon this week that has been on my mind everyday since.

I met and embraced several women whose stories made me think how life really is a story in the making.

We are all developing our own book everyday. We just don't realize it. Or, if we do, it becomes a fleeting thought.

I was so touched by talking with these amazing people that I have found myself reflecting and understanding how much letting go of any anger, hurt, resentment, etc. just opens up your heart and mind. It is so healthy and why do we need to hold on to the negative, really?

Also, I was amazed at how freely these women were able to discuss their obstacles or challenges. I was intrigued by that because I'm in the process of developing this for myself. Being "free" to trust and share is a life thing but I'm truly enjoying the learning process.

So, as a small side note in my week, I am looking for a pair of shoes. People ask me all the time if there is anything I miss. YES! High-heel shoes! There is something about the heel that just brings confidence and style. Now, it is a bit of a balancing debacle and scavenger hunt. Can anyone make a really cool flat that looks like a high-heel style?

Oh well if the search goes on! It's all about enjoying the moment and letting go. But, if you come across some, let me know! Also, the picture I posted was taken by my great friend Soulyavanh that now lives in Portland, Oregon. You can check out her photography website here. :)

Love,
Jen

Soda Pop

Thirsty for a Diet Coke or an adult bevy perhaps? If it's in a can and your lacking a few tools, like me, don't despair!

Put your desired can up against something that won't move like a wall, kitchen appliance, etc.

Then, with a spoon or the end of a knife, slide the thinnest part of your utensil under the flip top and push down on the utensil. By pushing down, the flip top will start to come up without using a finger.

But, the can will probably move on you so if you are pushing towards a wall it will stabilize the can for you. Just keep trying until it pops open and you hear that great pouring sound!

I'm still working on my wine opening but as soon as I perfect it, you'll be the first to know.

Burp,
Jen

Run Tellman Run

I posted a while back on a cool story to aid homeless kids! This is the latest and I think it's still a cool story. Since September 9th, the movement has logged 405 miles!

The man: Tellman (guy in photo with no shoes) left his shoes in New York City and has dedicated himself to running cross country barefoot to raise $100,000,000.00 to aid homeless youth in a project called RunTellmanRun.

He is currently approaching Pittsburgh on Route 130, averaging about 20 miles per day, and plans to run through downtown Pittsburgh on Tuesday. Pittsburgh Steelers’ Brett Keisel (along with his wife) are going to meet Tellman tomorrow when they share lunch with residents of The Hub, a homeless relief program of Three Rivers Youth located in the Strip district.

Also, remember the guys who wrote Same Kind of Different as Me (homeless guy Denver Moore & art dealer Ron Hall)? Well, they have a new book called What Difference Do It Make. Check it out!

Love,
Jen