https://youtu.be/Ah-vKluXmFY
Cooper starts on 2:35
Wednesday, December 23, 2020
Saturday, April 9, 2016
A Pure Barre Pregnancy: Pure Barre Pregnancy Modifications
[Friends and family: The reason for this post is that when I found out I was pregnant, one of the first things I did was search for articles about pure barre modifications while pregnant. I found several helpful articles which were all great, but not as much as I hoped. So, here I am, paying it forward!]
Disclaimer: I am not a Pure Barre instructor, owner or employee, nor am I a doctor (but I am a lawyer!), so this is not medical or technical advice. This is just my own personal experience and some practical insight, as if we were having a friendly informal conversation about it. Pure Barre is an intense workout and should be done with your OB's blessing.
A Pure Barre Pregnancy
First time wearing my sticky socks around 11-12 weeks, at a 90 minute full body burn!
Overview:
Pure Barre is very possible and even fun while pregnant! And I think it's really helped to manage my weight gain and help me feel good about how I'm carrying. Ultimately I took over 100 classes during my pregnancy and was there on my due date (my goal) and one day after. I returned to PB around 4.5 weeks postpartum (with clearance from my doctor).
It's important that you are already familiar with the technique and the difficulty, and it really helps to have a baseline of "pure barre strength" before you get pregnant (so you can still do those dreaded ledge exercises on your hands and knees during seat with a bump!). I had been taking PB pretty regularly for a year and a half before I got pregnant, and was going several times a week the month I got pregnant (including the day I found out I was pregnant, in Hawaii) But be prepared, as baby grows so do you, and that weight will be a strain!
Also to be clear, I was overweight before I became pregnant, and so I was not one of those "little" pregnant ladies who barely showed. I was fortunate that I carried very forward and had that classic "bump," but was NOT small, and gained at least 35-40 lbs during my pregnancy. But I lost my baby weight quite easily postpartum and I suspect that pure barre before and after helped.
It's important that you are already familiar with the technique and the difficulty, and it really helps to have a baseline of "pure barre strength" before you get pregnant (so you can still do those dreaded ledge exercises on your hands and knees during seat with a bump!). I had been taking PB pretty regularly for a year and a half before I got pregnant, and was going several times a week the month I got pregnant (including the day I found out I was pregnant, in Hawaii) But be prepared, as baby grows so do you, and that weight will be a strain!
Also to be clear, I was overweight before I became pregnant, and so I was not one of those "little" pregnant ladies who barely showed. I was fortunate that I carried very forward and had that classic "bump," but was NOT small, and gained at least 35-40 lbs during my pregnancy. But I lost my baby weight quite easily postpartum and I suspect that pure barre before and after helped.
If I had the time, I'd try to go 4-5 days a week, but unfortunately with work I really only manage 3-4. I think PB is most effective if you don't miss more than 1-2 days between classes, but that also depends on if you're walking, running or doing other exercise while pregnant.
My biggest piece of advice is that EVERY DAY IS DIFFERENT! Your body will change daily and your PB experience will change with it. Every pregnant lady is different so don't feel bad if there are others in your studio that are doing more than you do! The best advice I got was from another woman in the studio who said, "just do what you want and you'll be fine" which I have found to be so true. The instructors are a great resource and you should use them, but don't be afraid to "wing it," especially if you're experienced in the technique and the proper posture. Also, there were moves that I wasn't into at 35 weeks that I was able to do at 39 weeks so sometimes your body is just into it and sometimes it isn't.
Finally, this is required reading! http://jjsways.blogspot.com/2014/08/the-80-thoughts-you-have-during-pure.html
Clothes:
If you're lucky like me, you had instructors who had babies before you got pregnant, and you paid attention to their style. I'm still fitting into most some of my largest and stretchy pants, and wear long tanks (like the emijay "see you at the barre" tank) to cover the bump. My bra selection is quite limited so that's an excuse to spring for some new stuff (which you'll continue to wear after, especially if breastfeeding!). I have a few looser, "maternity" options for when I'm bigger so I don't stretch out my nice regular pants. My mom insisted that she get me a pair of Beyond the Bump capris, which are very comfortable, and then I found a pair of Beyond the Bump leggings that were severely discounted, which were great! Once I was close to full term, I was limited to my maternity PB clothes, and even those were strained, but if I was desperate I could have used my husband's workout clothes, and I didn't.
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| Around 34 weeks. Regular Beyond Yoga pants and Old Navy maternity tank. Pup sold separately. |
Water:
Water deserves it's own section. What's great about a PB class if you have plenty of opportunities to gulp down water, so not only is it important for fluids, etc. it's also just a great opportunity to load up on water during the day. I know on the days I go to PB I'm better hydrated than on my off days.
Also, if you're breastfeeding postpartum, drinking water during class is VERY important.
Also, if you're breastfeeding postpartum, drinking water during class is VERY important.
Instructors:
I chose not to reveal my pregnancy to my instructors until 11 weeks, which made sense for me. That was also when I started wearing the "baby on board" socks, which are fun :-) (my debut of the socks was during a 90 minute total body burn intensive, awesome, right?). My studio does not require a doctor's note but some do, so be prepared either way. It's been fun for my instructors to see my belly grow and they are some of my biggest cheerleaders! They have a handout they can give you with modifications, I never saw it and I'm not too concerned about it. If you're an experienced LTBer, it's not that hard to figure out modifications.
I chose not to reveal my pregnancy to my instructors until 11 weeks, which made sense for me. That was also when I started wearing the "baby on board" socks, which are fun :-) (my debut of the socks was during a 90 minute total body burn intensive, awesome, right?). My studio does not require a doctor's note but some do, so be prepared either way. It's been fun for my instructors to see my belly grow and they are some of my biggest cheerleaders! They have a handout they can give you with modifications, I never saw it and I'm not too concerned about it. If you're an experienced LTBer, it's not that hard to figure out modifications.
Odd Pregnancy-Related PB Issues:
- I got awful heartburn during class! It was very strange. I considered packing TUMS in the gym bag but it never got to that point, I just drank a ton of water and pushed through.
- If you're fighting the first trimester fatigue (or any trimester fatigue), get yourself to the studio anyway, it helps. I had weekends when all I did was PB and lay in bed with my dog.
- I had a series of headaches during a few weeks of my second trimester. Nothing helped, so I went to PB anyway.
- Bathroom breaks: you will need them! I suggest you go after seat during the beginning of "round back," the least useful section of PB while pregnant.
- I had a setback in week 24, when I had sciatic pain on my left hip (likely NOT caused by PB), which completely hampered my walking and was very painful. After about 9 days of rest, ice, and heat, nothing changed. So I decided to try "active recovery" instead, by returning to the barre, with the hope that some PB "physical therapy" and stretching would help.Two days in the verdict is unclear, I'm not sure it helped, but my pain went away about 5 days later, and mentally it was GREAT to be back.
- Pelvic floor issues: I realized postpartum that I have pelvic floor tightness. (The opposite of what you have to do kegels for.) The one legged stuff at PB seems to bring it on, both before and after the baby was born. Just be mindful of that muscle group because there are lots of changes happening!
- I had a setback in week 24, when I had sciatic pain on my left hip (likely NOT caused by PB), which completely hampered my walking and was very painful. After about 9 days of rest, ice, and heat, nothing changed. So I decided to try "active recovery" instead, by returning to the barre, with the hope that some PB "physical therapy" and stretching would help.
- Pelvic floor issues: I realized postpartum that I have pelvic floor tightness. (The opposite of what you have to do kegels for.) The one legged stuff at PB seems to bring it on, both before and after the baby was born. Just be mindful of that muscle group because there are lots of changes happening!
Modifications:
This is what you're here for, right! This is what has worked for me. My original goal was to get to 20 weeks without a major modifications which, for the most part, worked. Even at 28 weeks, I didn't modify as much as I expected. Here's how I break up the working sections of class, your terminology may be different (and I've never been an instructor) so bear with me:
First 100s
Plank
Push Up series
Tricep dips
Upper Body w/ Weights (or without)
Thighs
Seat
Round Back
Flat Back
Final Abs Series
Cobra/Back
Back Dancing(Bridge)
Weeks 4-15ish (before you start showing):
I don't think you need any modifications because of your pregnancy here. I chose to go down on my knees during plank to protect my back, and otherwise took it more easily than I used to (which I recommend) but really don't be afraid to challenge yourself in the same way as before.
Weeks 15-20:
I stopped doing the chair pose in thighs and instead stood up at the barre to limit back strain (which I probably should have done before I was pregnant - UPDATE: 8 months postpartum I'm back at doing chair!). I modified my cobra stretch but I still do it, and on most days I stayed up on my hands and knees during back stretch and stuck out opposing legs and arms. I had to modify the final abs series a bit to protect my back, but I'm sure that varies.
Weeks 20-30ish: I continued to to everything I had modified before, but:
First 100s I kept my legs up a lot higher, and eventually kept them on the floor, and for the roll-up I keep my legs down.
Plank (even on my knees) is harder!
Push Ups: I still do push ups on my toes, but I always keep both feet on the floor (I don't do any alternating lifting the feet). There's only so much my arms can take with this extra weight!
Thighs: One quirky symptom was calf cramps when we're on our toes during thighs! It's happened almost every class for a few weeks. (This eventually went away, which was also strange) I just come down on to my feet and am fine. I always stand up for chair but I still do water ski. UPDATE: At 28 weeks my belly is starting to get in the way while I'm at the Barre...I can still do everything but, it's different...
Thighs: One quirky symptom was calf cramps when we're on our toes during thighs! It's happened almost every class for a few weeks. (This eventually went away, which was also strange) I just come down on to my feet and am fine. I always stand up for chair but I still do water ski. UPDATE: At 28 weeks my belly is starting to get in the way while I'm at the Barre...I can still do everything but, it's different...
The stretches between thighs and seat are a little more tricky with the bump but I still do the split stretch. It feels so good!
Seat: I "lose steam" during seat (or, on bad days, "the wheels come off"), especially if we're standing at the barre on one leg (again, not much different than before, just worse, standing pretzel sucks for everyone!). I take a lot more breaks than I used to, and modify a lot more to keep pressure off my standing hip, which is just harder with more weight. Sometimes I stay upright at the barre if there's a fold over, other times I'm able to do it, do what makes sense and don't push it too much. The "seatbelt" position is getting harder so I might have to face the barre soon. Also, when on all fours, it's much harder to not arch my back and keep my hips tucked. I do the best I can and take several breaks. Eventually I was done with being all fours in seat, and did everything at the barre. It was just too hard to protect my back.
Round back is harder, I do a lot more table top/foot on the floor during that time. Be careful when rotating during the stretch between round back and flat back.
I don't modify flat back (yet). Eventually I couldn't really keep my legs together or in diamond anymore, so I just did the best I could.
Final Abs Series: I always keep the ball behind my back (I did that pre-pregnancy and now postpartum), and don't push it as much as I used to. All of the abs on my back are a little trickier, because the center of my abs is basically hidden from here on out. I can't get my legs to a 45 degree angle very easily, so I just keep my feet on the floor (knees bent) or keep my legs up high, depending on how I'm feeling, and often grip my legs. I still do the reverse crunches, I'm carrying high and they feel fine.
Back Dancing: I can't physically keep my feet together during back dancing anymore, so I just keep them further apart and protect my back, no big deal.
Be purposeful with your stretching! It's great for overall pregnancy comfort and I have to think hope it will help with labor!
Weeks 30-40: There is a huge difference between 30 weeks and 25 weeks, at least for me!
First 100s: I keep my feet on the ground the entire time.
Plank: I can still do it on my knees, but I'm not sure how much longer, I'm running out of space!
Push Ups: Still doing the full pushups!
Weights: I pushed myself until about 38 weeks and then it was funny, my arms started getting tired faster, so I took it pretty easy at the end.
Thighs and Seat: Same, except I'm carrying around more weight. I do not do anything on my hands and knees, I lean against the barre.
Abs against the wall: I usually take a bathroom break.
Final Abs series: I could still do it, but it's wasn't the same. If it wasn't for back dancing and final stretching I'd probably have left class after seat. I feel like I'm still getting a workout in, and it's great for my obliques (I'm carrying VERY forward). I focused on upper abs and obliques at the end.
Weeks 30-40: There is a huge difference between 30 weeks and 25 weeks, at least for me!
First 100s: I keep my feet on the ground the entire time.
Plank: I can still do it on my knees, but I'm not sure how much longer, I'm running out of space!
Push Ups: Still doing the full pushups!
Weights: I pushed myself until about 38 weeks and then it was funny, my arms started getting tired faster, so I took it pretty easy at the end.
Thighs and Seat: Same, except I'm carrying around more weight. I do not do anything on my hands and knees, I lean against the barre.
Abs against the wall: I usually take a bathroom break.
Final Abs series: I could still do it, but it's wasn't the same. If it wasn't for back dancing and final stretching I'd probably have left class after seat. I feel like I'm still getting a workout in, and it's great for my obliques (I'm carrying VERY forward). I focused on upper abs and obliques at the end.
Concerns:
The most common thing I read is to be careful about positions on your back. I also see a lot about modifying the abs sections, I haven't modified much at all and won't until my doctor tells me to. I think the biggest thing is DON'T GET HURT. Now is not the time to push it. My round ligament pain sometimes gets worse during PB so I try to take it easy on those days, knowing that a few days later, I'll probably be fine. At 28 weeks I told my nurse practitioner that I'm still doing Pure Barre and would continue to until she told me otherwise, she said that it was all good, and also said that I'm carrying really well and my weight was good, which I think is largely because of my PB practice.
Happy Thoughts
The instructors and clients in the two studios I regularly attend are so POSITIVE and sweet. Seriously, they constantly tell me that I look great and that I'm doing really well. In a world where everyone wants to tell you that you're huge and that you're "not going to make it to August," having this safe, happy space several hours a week while pregnant is invaluable. The value of that support cannot be understated.
Happy Thoughts
The instructors and clients in the two studios I regularly attend are so POSITIVE and sweet. Seriously, they constantly tell me that I look great and that I'm doing really well. In a world where everyone wants to tell you that you're huge and that you're "not going to make it to August," having this safe, happy space several hours a week while pregnant is invaluable. The value of that support cannot be understated.
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| After class on my due date - I made it! Beyond the Bump tank and capris |
Happy tucking for two :-)
Update: some postpartum thoughts! I never thought that going back 40 lbs lighter 4.5 weeks after having the baby would be 10x harder than going at 40 weeks! So give yourself some time and be patient. It took several months before I felt like myself again at the barre, but it does come back!
Saturday, January 4, 2014
Year in Review; The Future of Christine's World
Now that Curtis & Kenny are on their way back to Alabama today, I can work some on my blogs!
It's now 2014 - wow.
For many reasons, I often compare 2013 to 2012. Fall 2012 was, quite frankly, chaotic and sad. The loss of Grandpa and Aunt Julie has stayed with me through 2013 and although it's less acute, it's still there, and it will take a little more time than I initially anticipated to have complete peace with all of that.
2013 was probably one of my busiest years to date, and probably one of my funnest in my adult life. We started January 1st with a fantastic tailgate and Stanford victory at the Rose Bowl, and then dragged our weary selves back to Alabama and back to work. Curtis started business school with UNC in March, which has turned our world upside down, but he's doing so well and I'm thrilled for him and proud. My parents came to visit in April and we went to the Final Four in Atlanta. Curtis and I went to Hamburg in June. I left my job at the end of July, sadly said goodbye to our Alabama friends, and flew with Kenny to California for two weeks of great weather and family. Coming back from California, we packed up the car in Alabama and made the long drive to Philly, where I started my long-awaited judicial clerkship in August. Curtis worked out of the Virginia office for three months, and we learned how to drive back and forth. Now, at the beginning of 2014, with Curtis and Kenny starting the year in Mobile, life should settle down a bit. As always, I am so grateful for what I have, for the friends that we've made, in California, in Alabama and now in Philly. And of course we have a wonderful family, that is exceptionally tolerant of our crazy life choices and always supportive.
So here's to the New Year and the exciting developments ahead!
One thing that has become apparent this past year with the blog is that managing two blogs has become inefficient. I've always liked having my own blog with my own content where I express random thoughts which don't necessarily "fit in" with my "Christine & Curtis" blog. But due to my current job, I'm not as free to publish my own opinions as otherwise would be, and frankly I have less energy for it. I think it's time to press "pause" on this blog for now, with the hope that I will resurrect it at some point :-). FYI However, I have added a few things to both blogs that I marked under the date when the event occurred, so look back in my archives for those new "old" posts!
Thursday, January 2, 2014
100th Rose Bowl 2014
I did one of those things that I'm getting too old to do...
I seriously considered skipping it this year, but I've gone to every bowl game since 2010, the Sun Bowl, the Orange Bowl, the Fiesta Bowl and the Rose Bowl last year. It's the one time every year that I know I'll see my good Stanford friends, and we always have a great time!
I did it a little crazier this time, by flying to LAX the morning of the game, and flying back to Philly that night. Miraculously, everything went smoothly and we made it to the stadium with a little time to tailgate and catch up. My parents were kind enough to get my back and forth from the airport, which was great. Sadly we lost, but it was a fun day :-). And I wore shorts and sandals to the game, it was so warm!
Saturday, December 7, 2013
Ugly Sweater Run
I did the "Ugly Sweater Run" in Philly with my co-clerk Tina and Kenny. First we went to an "Ugly Sweater Store" to get what we needed to wear:
It was a cold morning, but very fun and festive, it was great seeing all the sweaters that people wore, and I definitely recommend it! Especially if have a dog; this is one of the few races that actually allows dogs, and it was so fun to have him (and his christmas sweater) along for the adventure.
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| Yes, those are working bells. |
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| The Hat was provided by the race - stylish, I know. |
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| There's Tina, my co-clerk and fellow Californian, who loves dogs. |
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Sunday, November 17, 2013
We walked some of the Philly Marathon course
And now we're tired
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Wednesday, November 13, 2013
Winter Wardrobe
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| Our first day of snow in Virginia |
This is an education for me, which is why I'm complaining about it all over Facebook, and why I'm writing about it now. It's also new because I can't just jump from my car to the building; I spend at least an hour outside walking every day, morning, noon and night, so weather is an issue.
So, what did I have, what did I buy?
What I had:
- Coat(s):
I have two pea coats from before, which I think will get my through all but the coldest days of the year. Someone in my office also gave me 3 coats, one of which is (I think) warm enough for the coldest days.
- Scarves
I have so many scarves that I've cut myself off. Some are warmer than others, but I am confident that I will get through the year.
- Hats/Gloves
I have a few hats, and picked out one as a gift over the weekend. I may have to get a warmer beanie, but I actually kept my hat off this morning for most of my walk, so I should be fine for all but the coldest days. I purchased a pair of warm gloves last year that I think will do the job this year.
- Sweaters/Warm Shirts/Pants
I added a few pieces to my wardrobe for style purposes but aside from that, I'm in good shape.
What I bought:
- BOOTS: Due to my freakishly wide calves, I can't walk into a store and buy leather knee-high boots. But I decided it was time, and am now the proud owner of brown and black riding boots that are both comfortable to walk around in and warm. I also own a pair of comfy snow boots, and a pair of Wellies that don't fit great but should work okay for wet walks with Kenny.
- SOCKS: I realized that I own few socks other than to wear with running shoes. So I had to create a dress sock collection for my boots and other closed toe shoes for winter. Thankfully, those are easy to find for cheap and on sale. I would like to buy a few more pairs of long boot socks but it's a low priority.
- TOMS CLOSED TOE WEDGES: I wanted something that was comfortable and with some height, so I bought the Toms wedges that I talked about in my last post. They are great! They are great to have on dry days, especially when I'm wearing pants.
- STOCKINGS/TIGHTS/LEGGINGS/ETC. I've always been a pretty big fan of tights and stockings, but there's a difference between liking them and being a staple of my wardrobe. I was able to catch a good sale on Gap's extra warm leggings/tights, and like them so far, as well as other things I've picked up.
- SKINNY JEANS: I don't generally like the idea of skinny jeans, but I found that Gap has skinny curvy jeans that I was able to order online, and they are really easy to wear with my boots, as opposed to trying to stuff my boot cut jeans into my shoes. It's practical and it works.
- ANOTHER COAT: I couldn't resist and Express sale to buy a black long puffy coat, which I think looks nice :-)
- ELECTRIC BLANKET: hands down, best purchase for the winter. I originally bought it for my office, but my house stole it for Christmas and it's not leaving my bed or futon for the duration.
Sunday, October 27, 2013
A Very Philly Weekend
Despite the fact that I caught a cold/flu/whoknows on Thursday, Curtis came down Friday night for the weekend, and is now on his way back to Virginia with our doggy. This marks the first time I'm in Philly without him, only for two weeks, but will certainly be different.
We ended up having a really nice weekend. Stay tuned for part of it (hint: it involves pictures), but for now I will focus on the food, since we checked two restaurants off the list of those I wanted to try.
First, Percy Street BBQ:
Curtis described it as "hipster BBQ" which is probably about right. Nevertheless, the food was priced well and tasty, we were able to watch the first quarter of the UCLA-Oregon game on a TV there, and we got a few dishes for free for our "wait," which wasn't long.
Here's the rundown of what we got:
Deviled eggs (on the house)
Skillet Cornbread (on the house)
Macaroni and Cheese - delish
BBQ Fries with Chopped Brisket - also delish
Pulled Pork (me, delish)
Burger (Curtis - "pretty good")
Chocolate-Banana Bread Pudding with Cinnamon Ice Cream (Curtis - "ok")
Root Beer Float (me - delish)
Suffice it to say, I'm looking forward to eating leftovers tonight. Not quite Alabama BBQ, but tasty.
Next? Brunch at Jones:
Styled as an old-school diner with a modern twist, Jones is one of many "Starr Restaurants," by a local restaurateur, who has several restaurants, all with different themes (I think I've been to four of them so far, The Dandelion, Talula's Garden, and Frankford Hall, and they are all fun)
Again, good meal. We started with their famous Monkey Bread, which was yummy and warm:
Then I had the egg sandwich with tater tots (which was just okay), and Curtis had the French Toast, which looked cool and tasted good.
Overall, a yummy weekend :-)
Wednesday, October 23, 2013
5 Things I love about City Life (so far)
In no particular order:
1. The WALKING. Okay, so I might come to regret this once we get freezing temperatures, but I average 2 miles per day of walking every workday. I still wake up in the morning with significant stiffness and pain, and the first couple of weeks were really tough (also because it was 90 degrees), but getting that much exercise in before even stepping foot in a gym is great. And now that the temperature has finally gone down, it's actually tolerable. Once Kenny leaves, I'll join a gym, but I don't feel too bad about waiting so long because I'm in pretty decent shape (now if I could just stop eating ...).
2. The FRUIT STANDS. Fresh food is tougher to come by on the East Coast and spoils more quickly, but almost every day now I pick up a huge bowl of fresh fruit and a banana from a stand for $3.50, comparable to what it would cost at a grocery store (I probably come out a little ahead actually). It's fantastic, I wish I had a fruit stand follow me everywhere. Unfortunately, the fruit stands will disappear during the winter, but I have a few alternatives that are close to my house and the courthouse.
3. It's easier for KENNY. In many ways, it's tough on Kenny and on me dealing with his barking and trying to keep him out of the street, but when it comes to his need to "mark his territory," it's fantastic, and he gets so much stimulation when he goes on walks that he's easier to deal with when we're in the house.
4. The RESTAURANTS and HAPPY HOURS. Oh. my. goodness. It is so much fun to be in your late 20s here, there's plenty to do and plenty of people to hang out with. I've found that I'm much busier here meeting up with friends and going out with my co-clerks during the week and I will definitely miss this when it's over.
5. The CONVENIENCE. Want to go to the grocery store? Several stores are a 10 minute walk away, or less. Want to go shopping? You're a 20-minute walk away from Banana Republic, etc. The density makes everything easy to access, and the public transit is nice when you're crunched for time. It's easy to catch Amtrak to New York or DC, and taxis are in abundance. After living in Alabama and the only Gap in the region being 40 minutes away (to say nothing of the lack of a Macys or Nordstrom), the fact that there are several Gap stores that are about a 20 minute walk away, even if I hardly ever go, is nice. Not having to buy gas or leave a carbon footprint ever is also not a bad thing.
1. The WALKING. Okay, so I might come to regret this once we get freezing temperatures, but I average 2 miles per day of walking every workday. I still wake up in the morning with significant stiffness and pain, and the first couple of weeks were really tough (also because it was 90 degrees), but getting that much exercise in before even stepping foot in a gym is great. And now that the temperature has finally gone down, it's actually tolerable. Once Kenny leaves, I'll join a gym, but I don't feel too bad about waiting so long because I'm in pretty decent shape (now if I could just stop eating ...).
2. The FRUIT STANDS. Fresh food is tougher to come by on the East Coast and spoils more quickly, but almost every day now I pick up a huge bowl of fresh fruit and a banana from a stand for $3.50, comparable to what it would cost at a grocery store (I probably come out a little ahead actually). It's fantastic, I wish I had a fruit stand follow me everywhere. Unfortunately, the fruit stands will disappear during the winter, but I have a few alternatives that are close to my house and the courthouse.
3. It's easier for KENNY. In many ways, it's tough on Kenny and on me dealing with his barking and trying to keep him out of the street, but when it comes to his need to "mark his territory," it's fantastic, and he gets so much stimulation when he goes on walks that he's easier to deal with when we're in the house.
4. The RESTAURANTS and HAPPY HOURS. Oh. my. goodness. It is so much fun to be in your late 20s here, there's plenty to do and plenty of people to hang out with. I've found that I'm much busier here meeting up with friends and going out with my co-clerks during the week and I will definitely miss this when it's over.
5. The CONVENIENCE. Want to go to the grocery store? Several stores are a 10 minute walk away, or less. Want to go shopping? You're a 20-minute walk away from Banana Republic, etc. The density makes everything easy to access, and the public transit is nice when you're crunched for time. It's easy to catch Amtrak to New York or DC, and taxis are in abundance. After living in Alabama and the only Gap in the region being 40 minutes away (to say nothing of the lack of a Macys or Nordstrom), the fact that there are several Gap stores that are about a 20 minute walk away, even if I hardly ever go, is nice. Not having to buy gas or leave a carbon footprint ever is also not a bad thing.
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Update
Sorry it's been awhile since I've given a substantive update. As time moves, and as I continue to be moving from place to place and am constantly "busy," I sadly find my exciting life less exciting to me. But, in devotion to the now 6 years of Blogging on Christine's World, I'd like to at least keep up the appearance that I'm still interested in narrating this time of my life.
First, an important Toms Update:
I got my #10s for my birthday in August:
http://christineeharding.blogspot.com/2013/08/my-10s-are-headed-to-beach.html
but of course, I have not stopped there. I've since gotten two more pairs (I think it's only two):
I love them both for work and for walking around the city. I've also purchased some key gear for winter, including Snow Boots, Wellies, Riding Boots, a Rain Coat, and have also been given warm coats from our Judicial Assistant. So I think I'm almost ready for the cold.
Speaking of walking around the city, I'm still having a great time living in Philly, and feel very blessed to have this life experience. There's something about living and working and shopping in close proximity that I really like. I'd love to document all the restaurants I'm trying in the City but I'm afraid that's unlikely, but I am eating very well. It's great to walk everywhere, I feel very healthy, and am frankly looking forward to the colder weather because I think it will make my walks easier.
I think Kenny has also really enjoyed city life, he likes his Daycare and LOVES walking around in Washington Square looking for squirrels. I think the hardest part for him is dealing with the fact that he only sees Curtis on the weekends, but he will probably spend a few weeks with him in Virginia soon.
Curtis is very busy, but is enjoying his temporary assignment in Virginia. He's in his third quarter of school at UNC, and will travel to Chapel Hill in mid-December for the program.
As for my work, well, I can't really speak on it substantively, what we do is mostly a secret until after the cases are decided. But I'm really enjoying my time as a clerk, it's a special experience for a lawyer, and my circumstances could not be any better. I really like my co-clerks and we regularly spend time together outside of work. My work life is so flexible that I'm not sure whether I'll be able to return to the regimented 8:30-5:30, I don't even set an alarm clock these days.
So, I'm still around, trying to enjoy what the city has to offer but time is flying. I might have some fun pictures to post next week, so stay tuned :-)
First, an important Toms Update:
I got my #10s for my birthday in August:
http://christineeharding.blogspot.com/2013/08/my-10s-are-headed-to-beach.html
but of course, I have not stopped there. I've since gotten two more pairs (I think it's only two):
I love them both for work and for walking around the city. I've also purchased some key gear for winter, including Snow Boots, Wellies, Riding Boots, a Rain Coat, and have also been given warm coats from our Judicial Assistant. So I think I'm almost ready for the cold.
Speaking of walking around the city, I'm still having a great time living in Philly, and feel very blessed to have this life experience. There's something about living and working and shopping in close proximity that I really like. I'd love to document all the restaurants I'm trying in the City but I'm afraid that's unlikely, but I am eating very well. It's great to walk everywhere, I feel very healthy, and am frankly looking forward to the colder weather because I think it will make my walks easier.
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| Jackie and I had a quick visit! |
 | |
| Kenny at Daycare, The "Dog School" |
Curtis is very busy, but is enjoying his temporary assignment in Virginia. He's in his third quarter of school at UNC, and will travel to Chapel Hill in mid-December for the program.
As for my work, well, I can't really speak on it substantively, what we do is mostly a secret until after the cases are decided. But I'm really enjoying my time as a clerk, it's a special experience for a lawyer, and my circumstances could not be any better. I really like my co-clerks and we regularly spend time together outside of work. My work life is so flexible that I'm not sure whether I'll be able to return to the regimented 8:30-5:30, I don't even set an alarm clock these days.
So, I'm still around, trying to enjoy what the city has to offer but time is flying. I might have some fun pictures to post next week, so stay tuned :-)
Saturday, September 14, 2013
Thursday, August 29, 2013
Welcome to Philly!
It's been almost two weeks since we drove into the city to pick up my keys for my Philly pad. I suppose I should document this time for posterity ...
On Thursday morning, August 15, we jumped into my Rav4 (which was purchased for this very endeavor) and started driving to Alexandria, Virginia, about 16 hours.
[I should also note that I finally had that emotional "moment," taking Kenny for his last walk around our neighborhood. Generally I've been too busy to work through any emotions about leaving, but I am sad to leave my apartment, friends, and community in Alabama.]
To Curtis' extreme credit, he did most of the driving, pointing out towards the end of the day that he really wanted to do the lion share of the driving since he didn't have time to help me prep for the move and he knew that I was pretty worn out.
Kenny did really well on the drive, we set up his bed in the backseat and he slept a lot, and spent quality time with us as well. We stayed at a hotel in Alexandria (for about 8 hours total) and it was pretty hilarious to see Kenny run around the hotel room, trying to figure out where we were and why we were there!
On Friday morning, we drove the rest of the way to Philadelphia, and then it got crazy! We had precious few hours to 1) get my keys, 2) get a TV because cable was coming to install everything, and 3) figure out what we were going to sleep on that first night! We managed to do all three and I made an initial Target run that night for the rest of our necessities.
My apartment is small but probably bigger than necessary since it's just me. I have a futon for guests to feel free to plan a trip to visit! It's
We spent the rest of the weekend putting furniture together and resting. Monday morning we both dropped Kenny off at his new daycare, Curtis drove to Herndon, Virginia for work, and I started my clerkship!
So far so good, it's a really relaxed work atmosphere (like, really relaxed), and we're doing well. The toughest part of the move has been getting Kenny adjusted but after 2 weeks we're SO MUCH BETTER. This weekend I hope to see some family and watch college football, so life goes on.
The other big adjustment has been the walking, in the heat no less. Between taking Kenny to daycare and walking to work, I get about 1.5-2 miles of walking in per day, at least. Last night I did about 2 miles to meet someone for dinner. So I can feel my better getting stronger and adapting, but it hasn't been easy on my 28-year-old overweight body. I hope to take advantage of the increase in activity to lose some weight (as also recommended by my new local doctor and supported by a high cholesterol number...*sigh*), but I'm deferring that effort until I feel a little better about getting through the day-to-day.
The other funny thing about the last 3 weeks has been my obsession with The Big Bang Theory. Seriously, I'm one season away from OWNING the entire series. I can't believe I didn't get into this show sooner, but it's a pretty funny development to come out of this summer (not unlike my obsession with Law and Order: Criminal Intent while studying for the Bar in 2011).
Anyway, I hope to post pictures soon, but I wanted to give an update on life. Enjoy your Labor Day Weekend!
On Thursday morning, August 15, we jumped into my Rav4 (which was purchased for this very endeavor) and started driving to Alexandria, Virginia, about 16 hours.
[I should also note that I finally had that emotional "moment," taking Kenny for his last walk around our neighborhood. Generally I've been too busy to work through any emotions about leaving, but I am sad to leave my apartment, friends, and community in Alabama.]
To Curtis' extreme credit, he did most of the driving, pointing out towards the end of the day that he really wanted to do the lion share of the driving since he didn't have time to help me prep for the move and he knew that I was pretty worn out.
Kenny did really well on the drive, we set up his bed in the backseat and he slept a lot, and spent quality time with us as well. We stayed at a hotel in Alexandria (for about 8 hours total) and it was pretty hilarious to see Kenny run around the hotel room, trying to figure out where we were and why we were there!
On Friday morning, we drove the rest of the way to Philadelphia, and then it got crazy! We had precious few hours to 1) get my keys, 2) get a TV because cable was coming to install everything, and 3) figure out what we were going to sleep on that first night! We managed to do all three and I made an initial Target run that night for the rest of our necessities.
My apartment is small but probably bigger than necessary since it's just me. I have a futon for guests to feel free to plan a trip to visit! It's
We spent the rest of the weekend putting furniture together and resting. Monday morning we both dropped Kenny off at his new daycare, Curtis drove to Herndon, Virginia for work, and I started my clerkship!
So far so good, it's a really relaxed work atmosphere (like, really relaxed), and we're doing well. The toughest part of the move has been getting Kenny adjusted but after 2 weeks we're SO MUCH BETTER. This weekend I hope to see some family and watch college football, so life goes on.
The other big adjustment has been the walking, in the heat no less. Between taking Kenny to daycare and walking to work, I get about 1.5-2 miles of walking in per day, at least. Last night I did about 2 miles to meet someone for dinner. So I can feel my better getting stronger and adapting, but it hasn't been easy on my 28-year-old overweight body. I hope to take advantage of the increase in activity to lose some weight (as also recommended by my new local doctor and supported by a high cholesterol number...*sigh*), but I'm deferring that effort until I feel a little better about getting through the day-to-day.
The other funny thing about the last 3 weeks has been my obsession with The Big Bang Theory. Seriously, I'm one season away from OWNING the entire series. I can't believe I didn't get into this show sooner, but it's a pretty funny development to come out of this summer (not unlike my obsession with Law and Order: Criminal Intent while studying for the Bar in 2011).
Anyway, I hope to post pictures soon, but I wanted to give an update on life. Enjoy your Labor Day Weekend!
Monday, August 12, 2013
"Sweet Tea Proper" - Shameless plug
Since I haven't been very good at posting on what it's like to live in the South, let me refer you to a good friend of mine from here, who has started a lovely blog about Southern living:
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| Sweet Tea Proper |
Sweet Tea Proper is "Designed to bless your heart, home, and life, Sweet Tea Proper is filled with faith, photos, recipes, ideas and inspiration to share and highlight the beauty and charm of Southern living."
I really enjoy her blog, and while I think I have a personal bias, since I do know that she is a lovely person and great example of the ideals found in a Southern young woman, I can also vouch for the authenticity of her site and the earnestness with which she presents her favorite aspects of where she lives.
Saturday, August 3, 2013
My #10s are headed to the beach!
Me, Curtis, and my brand new set of Toms (birthday present :-) are headed to the beach for a week of fun with the Hart family!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Friday, July 19, 2013
Justice, Race, and Trayvon Martin's Short Life
I've very purposely kept my opinions about the verdict off of Facebook. Awhile back I made a deliberate decision to make my facebook mostly apolitical, as a personal preference, I just didn't want to engage in controversial debates there anymore, I don't have the interest in it like I used to.
This week may have been an exception, but I've had such a hard time figuring out what I think and how I feel, that I knew it wasn't ready for facebook consumption. But today I've read two things that really touched me, that really articulated what I think:
One is from a United Methodist Blog: http://umcconnections.org/2013/07/19/white-privilege-and-the-trayvon-martin-case/?utm_content=buffer07005&utm_source=buffer&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=Buffer
The other was from President Obama. I disagree with him more these days than before, but I could tell he had this case on his mind and in his heart all week and finally figured out what he wanted to say, and I wholeheartedly agreed with it. Here is a link to the transcript:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/president-obamas-remarks-on-trayvon-martin-full-transcript/2013/07/19/5e33ebea-f09a-11e2-a1f9-ea873b7e0424_print.html
The truth is, the experience as a black person is different. The experience for a black man is even more different, and difficult. And agree or disagree with the verdict, Trayvon Martin was a victim of that. These laws that justify deadly force in these situations are applied unequally to the detriment of African Americans. And what makes is so sad, is that meaningful change on these issues moves so slowly, too slowly for many.
So many of my black peers have stories of being profiled, from Stanford students, to law professors, even I have my own story and experience with police officers. What's sad about Trayvon Martin's death is that it's just another example of that, with a horrible consequence.
And while I understand the verdict, I can't help but feel sad that a life was taken at the hands of another, without any meaningful consequence (yet) for the man who, admittedly made the choice to engage him with a gun, when he should have just stayed in his car.
I could go into more issues related to the case but I'd like to leave it at that.
Oh, and on a related issue, read this:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/questions-haunt-family-of-man-with-down-syndrome-who-died-in-police-custody/2013/07/18/693d4c2a-eef6-11e2-bed3-b9b6fe264871_story.html
I can't even begin to articulate how angry and upset this continues to make me - I really have no words.
This week may have been an exception, but I've had such a hard time figuring out what I think and how I feel, that I knew it wasn't ready for facebook consumption. But today I've read two things that really touched me, that really articulated what I think:
One is from a United Methodist Blog: http://umcconnections.org/2013/07/19/white-privilege-and-the-trayvon-martin-case/?utm_content=buffer07005&utm_source=buffer&utm_medium=twitter&utm_campaign=Buffer
The other was from President Obama. I disagree with him more these days than before, but I could tell he had this case on his mind and in his heart all week and finally figured out what he wanted to say, and I wholeheartedly agreed with it. Here is a link to the transcript:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/president-obamas-remarks-on-trayvon-martin-full-transcript/2013/07/19/5e33ebea-f09a-11e2-a1f9-ea873b7e0424_print.html
The truth is, the experience as a black person is different. The experience for a black man is even more different, and difficult. And agree or disagree with the verdict, Trayvon Martin was a victim of that. These laws that justify deadly force in these situations are applied unequally to the detriment of African Americans. And what makes is so sad, is that meaningful change on these issues moves so slowly, too slowly for many.
So many of my black peers have stories of being profiled, from Stanford students, to law professors, even I have my own story and experience with police officers. What's sad about Trayvon Martin's death is that it's just another example of that, with a horrible consequence.
And while I understand the verdict, I can't help but feel sad that a life was taken at the hands of another, without any meaningful consequence (yet) for the man who, admittedly made the choice to engage him with a gun, when he should have just stayed in his car.
I could go into more issues related to the case but I'd like to leave it at that.
Oh, and on a related issue, read this:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/local/questions-haunt-family-of-man-with-down-syndrome-who-died-in-police-custody/2013/07/18/693d4c2a-eef6-11e2-bed3-b9b6fe264871_story.html
I can't even begin to articulate how angry and upset this continues to make me - I really have no words.
Sunday, June 30, 2013
My souvenir from Hamburg
I'll give a recap of our Hamburg trip soon (probably on the family blog), but I wanted to do a separate, quick post about my big purchase from there.
I ventured out on a subway adventure to another part of town I had seen on the taxi ride to the hotel, and it turned out it had some great boutiques and home goods stores. After buying a couple of mugs at one place, I walked into a store called House of Fitz, took one look at these beautiful jewelry boxes in various colors along the wall, and knew I had to have one.
I've had the need for a jewelry box for a long time, this is my old one, which I think I got sometime in the mid-90's:
But it's one of those things that no one ever sees to judge, is expensive to replace (if you're going to bother going nice) and tricky to choose. So I had put it at the back of my mind for the last few years, until I walked into that boutique. I knew I wanted to buy something nice and something useful to remember the trip, so I was so happy to find these boxes, it's the perfect souvenir.
After a tough deliberation, I picked the middle size in Tiffany Blue, and its lovely.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
I ventured out on a subway adventure to another part of town I had seen on the taxi ride to the hotel, and it turned out it had some great boutiques and home goods stores. After buying a couple of mugs at one place, I walked into a store called House of Fitz, took one look at these beautiful jewelry boxes in various colors along the wall, and knew I had to have one.
I've had the need for a jewelry box for a long time, this is my old one, which I think I got sometime in the mid-90's:
But it's one of those things that no one ever sees to judge, is expensive to replace (if you're going to bother going nice) and tricky to choose. So I had put it at the back of my mind for the last few years, until I walked into that boutique. I knew I wanted to buy something nice and something useful to remember the trip, so I was so happy to find these boxes, it's the perfect souvenir.
After a tough deliberation, I picked the middle size in Tiffany Blue, and its lovely.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Thursday, June 6, 2013
My Toms Addiction
After receiving pair #8 and ordering myself #9, I finally accepted that I had a problem ...
When it comes to shoes, I'm totally into comfort, but I need the height for life, since I'm too short to get away with flats most of the time. I am a huge fan of the classics for comfort and casual events, but the wedges have changed my life.
Let me introduce you to my first 7:
Top Left: my first pair, #1 the navy basics, purchased Aug. 2011 and well-loved. The deterioration of these and the next pair gave me the justification I needed to buy #9.
Top Center: My red "Stanford" #2 Toms, as in, the pair that I used to wear to games. Purchased Fall 2011. As with #1, they are getting pretty ratty and are now good for walking the dog and other causal outings.
Top Right: #3 My work flats; purchased spring 2012, super comfortable and relatively stylish basic flats. They're in pretty good shape because I really don't wear them much.
[Note: I think they changed the textile for these flats, but they look the same]
Middle Left: #4, my first pair of wedges. These changed my life, but they haven't held up well. Grey turned out to be a color that I wore a lot. I should really stop wearing them to work, but I probably won't.
Middle Reds: I think these are actually #6, I purchased the brown sparkly before the red. These were purchased specifically for the Stanford Rose Bowl Game in Nov/Dec 2012 but have come in handy since.
Middle Brown: Aww yes, #5, these are the ones that I constantly get compliments for. I think I bought these in the fall of 2012. They were great for the holiday season.
Middle Right: #7, my formerly newest pair, purchased March 2013. I needed a basic sandal, and these work. These are a less comfortable style than the other wedge, but I'm getting better at walking in them.
Now, for my two newest:
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| My precious |
 |
| Curtis thinks these are "hipster." This makes me sad. |
Finally, #9, my first pair of the classic version with a print. I really wanted a cute pair that I could wear that don't look like they're falling apart. What's great about these is the fact that they conceivably match everything.
I have a lunch outing with the female lawyers tomorrow in Fairhope and choosing between #8 & #9 is going to be agony.
UPDATE: Since we're in for some rain today I went with the #7s and brought my Rainbows to change into if necessary.
UPDATE: Since we're in for some rain today I went with the #7s and brought my Rainbows to change into if necessary.
And here's what I want next! (because it doesn't end here of course)
A few purchasing notes:
Since my first pair, I've purchased all of my Toms online. They are NEVER on sale. Nordstrom and Toms generally have the same prices, and you should be able to get shipping free. Don't be surprised if you see a pair that you like and they're sold out a week later.
Pay attention to reviews regarding fit, comfort, etc., they will not lead you astray.
Thursday, May 2, 2013
Final Four Trip + Auburn
You might have heard, Syracuse Men's Basketball was in the Final Four and I went with my parents to it in Atlanta. They were in Mobile anyway, so we took the 5-hour drive to the ATL.
We got there, dropped off our stuff, and caught the closest subway into Downtown, where we attended a Syracuse pre-game party.
Band, Cheer and, of course, Otto, were there.
The cheerleaders thought my mom's 80's cheer jacket was pretty awesome.
I insisted on taking a picture in front of the "C" in "NCAA," a monument to the biggest Sham/Scam in US popular culture.
I couldn't help but take a picture of those ridiculous Louisville Cardinals Pants.
Our seats were not cheap, but they were pretty good for the price. The guy behind me threatened to call security when I stood up at the beginning of the game (an SU tradition) ... that was nice.
We lost, but it was worth the trip, it's a great event if you ever have the opportunity to go.
On our way back from Atlanta we stopped at Auburn University. You may have heard of Toomer's Corner and Toomer's Oaks, they're the trees that are covered in toilet paper after major athletic wins and other events (they rolled the corner on election night last year). Anyway, because a crazy Alabama fan poisoned the trees a few years ago, they were finally taken down about a week ago. We were able to go see them just before that, and I got a picture with what was left of them after being ravaged by poison the last few years:
The campus itself is beautiful, and our weather was pretty awesome for the visit.
Jordan-Hare Stadium
The Cam Newton Statute
We also made a stop in Montgomery to see the Martin Luther King Church and Alabama State University. One nice thing about this trip was the opportunity for my parents to see more of what the state looks like, how rural it really is once you get outside of the cities. It was a quick trip, but very fun.
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
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