Be Couragious... No Bull

In 2007 I needed to take one last Spanish class to graduate from SCSU. I decided, if I need ONE Spanish class, I'm NOT going to take it sweating over the summer in New Haven. I've always wanted to fly out somewhere to study but just never had the guts.

So I gathered up the courage to enroll in a summer program in Salamanca, Spain knowing noone. While I was there I met some amazing people, some that I still talk to every day to this day (hola!). One night over some vino, a few of those crazy people mentioned Running With the Bulls; a festival that lasts for 9 days in Pamplona, Spain. A non stop party that starts every morning at 5am with thousands of people being chased after 6 gigantic bulls, triple the size of you. They explained it as the craziest, wildest, scariest thing anyone can experience. I knew right then and there that I needed to do it. I mean, I came this far, right?!??!

This picture was taken RIGHT after I ran. I did it, it was awesome, it was intense, I saw some one break both of their legs at the same time, but the rush I got from doing it was indescribable. (Like when you're driving and suddenly there's a cop behind you and you get so nervous for no reason no matter what, then once they pass you're like AW, NO BIG DEAL!!!!!!!)

The reason I am bringing this up, is because SPRING and SUMMER are coming. There are goals that you all have, things you thought about doing but were too nervous to carry out. Projects you wanted to start but put to the side. DO IT. WRITE IT. START IT. FINISH IT. ANYTHING you have wanted to do; travel, read a book, write a book, interview for a dream job, start a club, join a group, learn how to surf (my next goal).... ANYTHING. Anything you want to do, try it. New year, new beginnings, new story.

What is something you have ALWAYS dreamed of doing but never had the guts to do???

Has Spring Sprung For You???

Alright, guys. Now that it is getting semi-nicer out again, it's time to start getting yourself in shape. Physically, mentally, literally. I know I am totally guilty of eating whatever I want and staying in and watching TV all winter and now have developed some what of a winter coat on myself. It sucks when you start to see thinner, tan people wearing great Spring outfits. You don't have to be skinny and tan, but you can be HAPPY and COMFORTABLE with yourself, wearing that outfit, and sporting that smile, too!!!!

The easiest (slash hardest) thing to do is hit the gym. Go for a walk outside. Do some push ups. Check out an On Demand work out (they rule!!). Go to the grocery store and start eating healthier (doesn't have to always be healthY, just healthiER). You do not have to re-arrange your entire life, but you NEED to start moving. You also do NOT need to exercise every single day. Your body will get worn out and your muscles will stop developing after a while. Take your time, ease in to it, be consistant with it.

Buy some books and lay outside. That thing you always wanted to start writing?? Write it. You need to get your brain moving, also. For a list of great books to read, check out my Must Read books on the right hand side of the blog.

Once you start moving you will feel in SUCH better shape, in a better mood, and your body and brain will feel more awesome all around. I KNOW it's a hard first step, but once you make that leap you will find it does a body good!!!!

THIS Is Your Moment--No, Really...

"Do more than just getting by. Make the choice to triumph, over adversity, over the circumstances, over your perceived limitations. Choose to triumph and you are already on your way. You are no longer making excuses, and no longer using the troubles as reasons for avoiding action. Live the life you know, deep inside, that you were born to live. You have so much to give. Step beyond the fear that you might lose something. Go forward with the confidence of knowing there is value to be gained by every experience. What value do you wish to gain, what new expression of your unique purpose do you wish to create right now? Go ahead and run with it, because THIS is your moment of triumph."

Ralph Marston