AND, THE NEXT CHAPTER?

I leave tomorrow for Spokane; going up to help my Mother move from one assisted living facility to another (closer to family). More moving! The good? It's not my 'stuff' I'll be moving, and she has already substantially down-sized. But, there will be emotion -- she, despite being reclusive, has become acquainted with all her caregivers and leaving them for new ones, will be challenging. My plan is to move both parents into one facility (different areas, however), so they are closer to each other and family. I am hopeful that this will bring some calm to both their situations - which has kind of been like a train wreck so far. Nothing has gone according to plan.

Our original plan? Move both into assisted and skilled nursing at the same facility (which we did). Once Dad had recovered from the stroke, he would move into the apartment in assisted living (that has not happened - he has not made the level of recovery needed for that move - and, therefore moved to a nearby VA skilled care facility). What does that leave? Two people (married to one another), living in separate facilities, with huge strain on their emotions and at big financial consequences.

With this revised plan, both will be together, closer to most family members, in a facility that will offer care and will accept financial aid plans. Fingers crossed.

And my week in Fallbrook? Productive, though you might not think so if you hadn't been here watching the day-to-day activities (in other words, it's still a work in progress).

1. Painters are done with the inside - looks good and clean.
2. We have 80% of the blinds installed - nice.
3. A kitchen table and chairs was purchased and delivered - comfy and 'chic' looking.
4. More boxes unpacked, more arranging of furnishings accomplished - love the spaciousness that gives us.
5. One large piece of furniture sold - yes!
6. Previous owners' leftovers disposed of - either to garbage or to thrift stores.
7. Dishwasher in and working -- double yes!!
8. Garage organization begun - thank you, Howard (husband).

Excited to return from Spokane to begin teaching. Gearing up by sending studios pics and bios - I really need to have a few pictures taken; later, I guess. Anxious to begin connecting with students and the yoga community more fully. In Spokane, I'll try to do a couple classes; tho, no guarantees there either. Stay fluid.

Hope you have a good week!

I'M STILL HERE

Just a short post to let you all know I'm still around. It has been one wild week at our house! We are:

1. Painting the ENTIRE inside (ceilings, trim, walls)
2. Planning for painting the exterior window trim
3. Having parts of the house measured for carpet
4. Having shrubs trimmed back and removed
5. Getting the new dishwasher installed tomorrow (YES!)
6. Hauling 'stuff' of the previous owner's out of the attic, studio, yard to the recycler, the dump, or the Goodwill-type stores -- depending on what each item qualified for.
7. Preparing for installation of a gate that will - we hope - contain our two dogs on this one-acre of property.
8. Still looking at some boxes to unpack inside the house, and the garage -- oh, my!

Whew! Tired after just writing this.

Then, there's the weekend -- we will have Easter dinner here (now that's motivation to pull it together, isn't it?)

So, a few things on the agenda that have been keeping me from the blog, my reading, and my intention to attend some yoga classes this week. I keep reminding myself that I will have lots of time to do these neglected activities; today, I must focus on settling into this house. Until that happens, the others will not flourish (if that makes sense). In other words, so long as I'm worried about the 8 action items above, I will continue to be distracted. So, 'get'er done'.

Today? Carpet person comes, unpack a couple of the boxes marked 'fragile', clean up the cabinets these items will call home, plan for artwork (where will it best hang), dodge painters.

Hope you have a good day!

POST #600 - WHAT BETTER TO WRITE ABOUT THAN BEING "WANTED"

When I lived in Salt Lake, my entry into teaching yoga was facilitated (and necessitated) by owning a studio -- I could craft my studio schedule, insert myself here and there on that schedule, and not worry about competing with others for coveted teaching positions.

And, as the decision was made to sell the studio and move away from the area, I worried that no one would 'want' me. That there would be so many instructors that I would find myself in the challenging position of looking for and competing for teaching spots. But, no -- surprising to me is the fact that I guess I've arrived at the right place, right time and now have 4 classes to begin teaching in May.

What a wonderful surprise to arrive in Fallbrook and be welcomed by being 'wanted'!

I've decided to dedicate Tuesdays and Thursdays to teaching (perhaps add in another day for private sessions). A small studio in Carlsbad has offered me an opportunity to teach 2 classes (Tues/Thurs mornings); the studio in Temecula has offered me 2 classes -- also Tues/Thurs, but in the afternoons. I figure it this way -- drive into Carlsbad, teach. Return home for a quick bite of lunch, then off to Temecula to teach -- that will be my Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Best of all, this schedule leaves me with plenty of free time for 'Grand-Dudes', friends, my own exercise and practice, plus all the associated activities of a 'new-to-me' home. What a great start!

Back to the present - the weekend is here. We plan to check out consignment stores today -- get away from the unpacking for a few hours. Besides, there are painters in the house -- how can you unpack with tarps over most of the floor, cabinets, furniture, even the boxes still remaining inside the house. So -- best plan is to ESCAPE!

Hope you have a great day and weekend!

TEACHING TODAY!

Yes, I am actually going to teach a full class after 4 weeks in moving limbo. In fact, I'll be teaching 3 classes -- where will my voice be when I'm done?

Seems there is an event pulling 3 instructors away from Living Yoga in Temecula today, causing the need for a 'guest teacher' at 10am, 4pm, and 6pm. Look for the good here -- I'll have time between to take this computer to the Apple Store for a little R&R (repair & revival); then some time to get an elusive birthday gift. Not that teaching requires I look for the good -- it's the 3 classes part that has me a bit 'daunted'. Yet, it will be good to teach and to connect more with the studio; not to mention the students I'll meet.

Tomorrow (Friday), I'll be guest teaching again - 2 classes for a fellow Inspired instructor in Carlsbad, 9am and 10:45 or 11am (got the 9 am correct; the other class follows close on the heels, same place - so, I'm good).

Right now, my plan is to use the theme of patience; of taking time to notice what happens when we apply a principle to our practice (i.e. when you apply muscle energy thru arms and legs while in plank, doesn't the pose seem less strenuous? like that).

The settling into this house continues. We have most of the boxes inside the house unpacked and put away (or given away). A painter arrives tomorrow morning to begin the job of painting the ceilings (can you say tarps and drop cloths everywhere?). Looking for the good here -- fresh paint, able to hang artwork, finish putting things 'together'.

So, need to get ready for the big day -- off for Temecula by 8:45 (allowing for unfamiliar traffic); take lots of provisions with me, since I won't be back here until later this evening.

Hope you have a great day!

I 'PASSED' THE TEST CLASS

Wow, it seems every morning the routine stays the same, but come blog-time it's time for me to get on with the day. Poor blog. I apologize. I feel as if I'm letting an old (or new) friend down when I neglect it so.

Days here require more time to navigate for some reason. Perhaps it's just the newness of it all; figuring out how long it will take to get somewhere, what the traffic may be like, what other trips can I combine so use of that precious commodity, gasoline, is not wasted. Like that.

The pattern repeats itself within the walls of our new home, also. I find myself walking from room to room, carrying one item, then going back to the exact spot to repeat the process. It's kind of crazy-making. Like I am not getting a whole lot done.

Gradually, tho, we are whittling away at the boxes. Even accumulated enough to place an ad and sell some of them to future movers. Hoo-Ray!

And, as I settle in, I'm adding a layer here and there. One layer is my teaching. Last week's meeting with a studio owner relatively nearby went well; she put me on the schedule for 2 classes. Before we 'cement' the deal, she - smartly - needed to experience me teaching. So, we had a 'tryout' class yesterday -- a one-hour class attended by 2 of the regular instructors with a 3rd observing. I tried to teach 'basic', but yoga teachers don't always 'do' basic, so I taught to what I saw. My verbiage - which had just begun to emerge in ways I'd never experienced before - was a bit rusty, but the technical -- kind of like riding a bike. Fun. Best part? I passed. Very nice comments heard from the room, and that means I'm in. I'll sub 2 classes for this studio this week (Thursday), and on Friday I'm still on to help a Carlsbad instructor with her 2 morning classes.

The weekend, while busy, was fun. Sundari arrived from Maui for a few days, and invited me to join her and Tiffany Grimm for a practice Sunday afternoon. Well, you all know my comments about my practice recently. Put that together with practicing with two very skilled yoga practitioners, and you have a combination ripe for intimidation. Tried not to let it bother me, tho. Just practiced what I could; didn't whine and tried not to make excuses. Did, however, take advantage of Sundari's therapeutic knowledge and let her massage (or 'direct the tissue' - as she called it) my right hamstring. Good stuff. It was a fun, relaxed time and I so enjoyed seeing both ladies.

Today? Back to unpacking; then a trip in for lunch with the 'grand-dudes'; a bit of gift shopping; and home.

Hope you all have a great day,

NOT EVERYTHING CAN BE PERFECT . . .

I'm talking about the move/house here when I say not everything can be perfect. Why? The house we bought is very nice, don't get me wrong; it's just been well-used. And, that wasn't apparent when I viewed the home with the previous owners' belongings in it. So, as we move around the house, I notice the marks on the wall, the dust from many years of walls not being dusted (BTW, I've never been big on dusting my walls, but I know housekeepers do it and I know this house could have used more of that effort -- therefore, I bought a tool and have been gradually moving through the house with it.). Then, there's a definite lack of window coverings - a problem being solved as I write (blinds are ordered). Once all the boxes are unpacked, I suspect the carpet will reveal it's true condition, and we'll be looking at replacing it.

Right now, tho, I'm dealing with appliances. Have a new washer/dryer - love them. Dishwasher and compactor gave it up about one week into our residence here. So, I've been in process of replacing them -- dishwasher will be here and installed on Friday. Compactor, tho, is giving me fits! I ordered it, it was delivered with washer/dryer (but not installed - I didn't order that, according to delivery guys). So, I ordered it and waited. Yesterday it was installed - not real happy with how it fits into cabinet, so I wasn't terribly disappointed when, upon test runs, it revealed itself to be defective. Now, back to the drawing board - new, defective model will stay here, I'll find a replacement, replacement will be delivered and installed. That's the plan.

Ahhh, patience -- it is coming in very handy these days.

My meeting with Andrea at Living Yoga, Temecula, went very well. We are exploring 2 classes - one, a therapeutic yoga class (similar to 'gentle' - but with a bit more emphasis on therapeutic benefits) and a basics class. Both good fits for me (style- and schedule-wise) and a good way to slide into the community. We have a couple 'housekeeping' chores to take care of before it's set in stone; if all goes well, classes would start in May. I'm excited and also happy to have an opportunity to put all my "90 minute" plans and ideas into play.

And, today?

• Attack a few boxes this a.m.
• Lunch with Valerie (who moved to San Diego from SLC 2 years ago and who practiced alongside me in Adam's classes for many years)
• Check out consignment stores in Del Mar and Solana Beach for some of my clothing that needs to find another home.

Hope you all have a great Wednesday,

FINALLY, A YOGA CLASS

Yes, I finally got off my rear end, checked websites, and drove up to Temecula (about 11 miles north of Fallbrook) for a class with Ashley Fiala, Certified Anusara® instructor, at Living Yoga.

It was a good class -- Ashley, previously unknown to me, is a welcoming, knowledgeable (of course) and funny (as in, laugh-creating) instructor who gently moved us through a 'basics' class and right into a drop back with 2 helpers (!?!?!?). She had prepped us well for this adventure, but nothing like surprise to wake a group up. All-in-all, a good experience.

I go back to the studio this morning to meet with the owner - talking about 'guest teaching' when needed, and/or class possibilities. Will keep you all posted.

What was a discovery I made in this class? That I definitely need to be more diligent in my personal practice. I felt stiff and without the normal amount of energy. I can blame it on moving, unpacking, Vitamin D depletion -- but, I just think it's mainly due to not enough time/energy expended on the mat. No excuses, no alibis.

This morning in my computer time, I discovered Elena Brower's "Mindful Smack" -- a video/blog that's short and succinctly gives her ideas on living well and authentically. Kind of like 'smacking us up side the head' with something we know, but - perhaps - have forgotten (or ignore). So far, there are 4 entries to this site, one of which is telling the truth. Hence, the previous paragraph. Truth is, I haven't been practicing enough. Truth is, I'm stiff - why? could be the move, could be other things, but I do need to admit that my physical practice of yoga has not been getting enough of my attention over the past several weeks. No excuses, no alibis.

Firsts for me this week -- I made guacamole to die for (at least, in my mind) from avocados grown in my own yard (Fuerte brand - not Haas; Fuerte's are described on one site as the 'original high quality California avocado'). What did I notice about them? The guacamole lasted 4 days, and during those 4 days it NEVER turned brown. My ingredients? 5 avocados, 1 diced tomato, about 2 tbsp. diced sweet onion, and a splash of lemon juice. Funny story? As I mashed the avocados, I thought -- "darn, I should have bought a lemon at the grocery this morning". Then I remembered - I have a tree full of meyer lemons just off the side of the garage. Duh!

Another 'first' - I picked about 2 dozen lemons, gave some to 'grand-dudes' and their parents, then made lemonade. Home-made lemonade! Excellent!!!

Today?

• Fed'x tax materials, no matter what!
• Temecula meeting
• Unpack a few more boxes (for the record, yesterday I did FINALLY unpack the suitcases I arrived with)
• Deal with realtor on sale of my parents' home (nightmare city); got to breathe deeply

Hope your Wednesday is a good one,

FRIDAY ALREADY . . .

As unpleasant as unpacking is, it does make time go quickly; so, hopefully, there is an end in sight to this unpacking unpleasantness.

What I am experiencing right now is a significant lack of stress -- nowhere to run to, no appointment to keep, not much calendar-wise to remember except that I must get up - coffee & computer time - continue unpacking & organizing - appointments for bids on paint, window coverings, carpet, etc. What stress there is happens when I look at a box that's been sitting in the same position for 10 days!?!?!?

Big development this week -- I now have a brand new washer/dryer and can start to make a dent in about 2 weeks of laundry. I moved the bird into his larger cage (from the travel cage). We also have a new trash compactor, but that sits in the box waiting for installation by someone. A new dishwasher is to be delivered sometime next week (an unexpected expenditure).

Through all this unpacking, dealing with contractors and salespersons, ordering and receiving deliveries, I go back to the word 'patience'. It's become a mantra, keeping my attitude in check. All of this could easily become a recipe for attitude meltdown. So long as forward movement is happening, the attitude is staying positive.

And, the fun part -- watching the Grand-Dudes run around the property. Enjoying a bit of freedom from city, neighborhood life. They were all about picking oranges, tangerines and grapefruit yesterday, taste testing as we went along (tangerines/oranges, not grapefruit). So cute and fun to watch/experience with them.

And, yoga? Well, since Desiree, no formal classes; good intentions for next week. And, Sundari's coming to town - so, for sure a practice with her and Tiffany while she's here.

Hope your week's been great and have a good weekend,

ARM BALANCES

Sunday's session with Desiree was FUN! Who thought I would say that about arm balances a few years ago. But, over time, I've learned to create a lightness that comes in very handy for this category of poses. That doesn't mean they're the most beautiful expression of a pose (or that I can even get into them), but - knowing that I must have that lightness is one step on the journey. And, that's how I work in challenging poses -- one step at a time. Conquer one thing, add a layer - like that.

Desiree's emphasis for Sunday was just that - creating lightness. And, it was fun. No pressure (at least that I felt), no expectations; just some clear instruction and variations I hadn't seen before that will give me access to some poses that have been previously unavailable (thinking of ardha bakasana and galavasana, here). Ended feeling good, at least good that I had attempted what was asked of us.

In her opening talk Sunday, she introduced a gentleman who is in his 70's and attending to regain and improve his arm balancing skills. Talk about laying out an age-related challenge -- how could I NOT attempt to do these poses, if a 70-something person was in the room attempting (and perhaps doing) them; tho I only had time to watch him do one pose. Too busy working on my own stuff. My theory has long been, 'if I don't try I'll never do'. So, try I did.

Pleased I could do the push-ups she offered up to us, as well as the ab strengtheners. Those are critical to being 'light', though not pictured in 'Light on Yoga'.

This week? Back to unpacking. We are out from town a ways, which also means lack of access of restaurants. What does that mean? More cooking. Yes, I'll have to pull out my cooking skills (?) from their hiding places and practice them, as well. And, to do that, I'll have to re-familiarize myself with the grocery stores in the area. Well, I have all the tools (appliances, pots, bowls, etc.), might as well put them to good use.

Beginning to get bids for window coverings, carpet, paint. Washer/dryer and a new trash compactor will be delivered tomorrow (yes!). Busy week here for house stuff. Once this week is done, I'll begin to look out for teaching opportunities.

Hope your day is great!

PATIENCE

Patience: the capacity to accept or tolerate delay, trouble or suffering without getting angry or upset.

Interesting that Sundari recommended 'patience' one week ago and, on the first night of Desiree's workshop, 'patience' was part of her theme. As in, things will happen - we just need to set ourselves up (align) and be patient. It doesn't mean stop working, however. If I patiently wait with no result, then a bit of refinement is needed; a re-tooling, so to speak. I know this. After all, I am the student who patiently worked on urdhva dhanurasana for 12 years before finally being able to confidently say 'I can do it', and 'I can do it, again, wanna see?'

Friday night with Desiree was devoted to getting acquainted and hip openers. Her emphasis was on introducing us to the T12 area of our backs; to taking innerspiral all the way up into the back and to then rooting down from that area through the tailbone, as we outer spiraled. The effect? More psoas work, more core work, NO painful hamstrings. I've experienced this with Desiree before. One of her gifts to me was the gift of 'hamstring-discomfort-free' yoga. Yes!

Saturday, well - Saturday's early session was devoted to backbends. I missed it. Not because I was afraid or intimidated, but because my 'Grand-Dudes' needed a bit of grandmother time as their parents attended a memorial service. I arrived at the workshop site in time to watch an impromptu lunch session in which the advanced backbends were being tested out. Wow!

I also understand I missed an unexpected visit by John Friend to the early session. That would have been nice (to see him), but I can't be everywhere and I'm o.k. with it.

The second session on Saturday was all about therapeutics - what to do when this or that hurts. Good stuff - some of it I'd heard before, but it NEVER is a waste of time or energy to see and hear it again. In the group: Jose' Alvarado from Pasadena. Love him - such a kind and giving person. The evening was capped off by going to dinner with about 15 from the workshop, including Desiree and Jose'. Nice to be in their company off the yoga mats.

Today? Well, Derek (our son) is coming to help with moving some furniture around, perhaps unpack and break down some boxes, take down old window coverings, and any other things Mom (me) can think of.

At 1, the final session with Desiree begins -- a bit of everything we've learned taken into arm balances and inversions. Then, dinner with the 'Grand-Dudes' at their house.

It will be a great day for us - I hope yours goes swimmingly also. Enjoy!

THE FIRST FEW DAYS ...

Early morning in Fallbrook, coffee and computer in hand, listening to Amy & Tal's recent Teleconference in which they discuss Amy's "90 Minutes ..." series.

Moving van arrived early Monday morning. Because our driveway is steep, the truck had to park at the bottom of the drive and the 4 guys working the truck had to hand carry and roll boxes and furniture UP the hill. Talk about a workout for them and their legs! It was a long day for all of us -- them unloading and placing stuff; me, figuring out where the stuff ought to go (or, even if it should stay at all -- because, quite frankly, we have way too much stuff for this house or for any two people to own.

The van unloaded by 8 pm, furniture un-shrink wrapped, big stuff unpacked, paperwork done (mover's delight, I'm sure), I think I fell into bed; awakened to find boxes, boxes and boxes waiting to be unwrapped. Once unwrapped, what does one do with all the boxes and packing papers -- one of the daunting aspects of this project for me. Some certainly can be re-used, but not all. Fortunately, Fallbrook has a good recycling plant about 3 miles from our house; just have to cart it over.

After 2 days of unpacking, a system seems to fall into place -- I get up, still create time for sitting, coffee and computer, then hit (unpack) some boxes. Once I create a car-full of boxes/papers, it's opportunity for a break; and I take the cast-offs to recycle. Then back to the house for lunch, a brief break, more unpacking, dinner, rest.

Step back to my post of a few days ago, remember the word 'patience'. Well, it certainly comes in handy. Patience with just taking it one step and one box at a time; patience with trying furniture in different configurations; patience with NOT hanging art just yet (walls really need a bit of TLC - previous owners had a good number of pieces hanging, and they left their mark).

While all this happens, I keep track of the yoga world through my e-mails and Facebook connections. So happy to have the "90-Minute Kula" to keep me connected and involved. And, I have already been invited to 'guest teach' for a fellow Anusara-Inspired(TM) instructor in April. Excited for that.

So, that's my life this week -- devoted to unpacking. Weekend? Desiree and a bit of time with the 'Grand-Dudes'.

Enjoy your Thursday,

SUNDAY MORNING - WE'VE ARRIVED

Keeping it short. We arrived at our new home last night about 8:30pm, after 12 hours on the road from Salt Lake City. Maybe could have made it in less time, but stops are beneficial - so we made many, much to Howard's scowling (at times).

First night - empty house. We unloaded the things we brought with us (bedding, some clothes, animals, animal food, coffee fixings, misc. 'I don't know what'), and explored a bit -- where to put what, surprises, things we'd forgotten (though Howard hadn't forgotten anything - he's never seen this house in 'real life' before; such trust that man has for my choices), begin thinking of how to handle painting, cleaning, all the stuff that comes with such a move. Inflated the airbed, slept in until 6!!!

Big, beautiful hand-created sign on the garage door, plus a welcome basket waiting at the front door -- both compliments of Jessie, Derek & the Grand-Dudes. Fun that we had no fewer than 10 phone conversations with them on the trip down -- checking in, where are we now, what should we do about . . ., "Grandma, are you moving here?" compliments of Mr. Brady, like that.

Had forgotten how STEEP the driveway is. There is NO way the moving van will get up here and, therefore, I do not envy the people hired to help unload 20,000 pounds (not exaggerating here) of books, furniture, clothing, etc. Their 'tips' will be well-earned (yes, folks, I just learned that tipping the driver and his helpers is part of all this).

Moving to a new house, getting used to the changes -- it's all yoga. And, as Sundari pointed out on Friday -- it will require the 3A's, Attitude (positive & patient), Alignment (figure out the optimal), and Action (move it, don't just stare at it).

Hope YOU have a great Sunday -- mine will be GREAT, for sure.

FRIDAY MORNING - THE NEXT PHASE

Cleaning up and organizing the Driggs house for our departure today -- we will head out some time after noon for Salt Lake City. Plan to spend a night there, pick up the rest of our 'family' (2 cats and 1 bird) early Saturday morning, and hit the road for Fallbrook. Posting over the next few days may be rare -- it will be a challenging few days, but I could surprise myself; wait and see.

Yesterday, I received a call from Sundari, just checking in. Her word of wisdom: patience. Yes, that's a good one. As I reflect on the move, on the Certification process, on teaching, on my practice -- a bit more patience would come in handy as I move through all of these aspects of my life right now.

I'll focus on Certification this morning -- why patience? Well, how many people do you know, who have finally gotten on the Certification trail, are patiently waiting for the process to unfold? Personally, I know and have heard of few (one, actually, comes to mind).

We want it. I want it. Why say anything else? It's what I've been working for - unknowingly, for 10 years; knowingly, for three. When I was 58, and completing Martin and Jordan Kirk's Level 2 Teacher Training, I finally said "I want to be Certified", out loud. Then, I took on the mantra, CBS (Certified by Sixty). Well, I'm 61 -- not Certified, but close. Patience.

I traveled through the application and acceptance with equanimity. I asked for the test and completed it, again feeling almost tranquil and enjoying the process. Then began, for me, the video process (to get an approved one ready to submit). That became a bit of a challenge as both my mentor's and my lives spun a bit out of control for several months. Still, I remained untroubled. With the one-year deadline facing me, our efforts became focused on getting that video in. It happened, it's in. Certification mentor assigned.

Now, tho, even as I don't have a place to teach during this transition period, I find the reminder to be patient of value, because I am anxious, anxious to have the process done - be Certified - be back to teaching as a Certified Anusara® Yoga Instructor. Patience.

Need to get on with the day, but I searched my notes for a 'tip'. Lots of good stuff, but I always look for something that 'jumps' off the page at me and here it is: working with the breath as I adjust a student. For me, this has been a challenge to learn and to practice. I remember John telling us over and over to 'sync' up with the student's breath, and I remember Jordan (and Martin) encouraging us to adjust with the student's breath. It took a while, tho, for this instruction to sink in for me. This is where 'patience' comes in handy.

When adjusting, I approach the student, ask permission, and tell them where I plan to place my hands, foot, hip, whatever. Then I wait (patience). Once I've made contact with the student, I do sync up with their breath. I encourage them to breathe deeply, ask them to take one more inhale and, on the exhale, begin the adjustment. The waiting is what's hard - I want to jump in there, adjust, fix it -- patience, Leslie, patience. So much easier if I wait and let the student's breath help in the adjustment.

Well, signing off for Friday. My next post, I'll be in Utah, Nevada or California. Wish me patience (especially if my bird decides to get 'squawky' during the drive).

Enjoy your day,

WEDNESDAY MORNING

I wake up each morning with a little anxious edge around me. Kind of like I'm forgetting something really important. Perhaps that's what it's like to always be involved and doing, doing, doing, then to abruptly stop. Stop what?

Stop living in the same house, stop living with the same possessions, stop teaching - classes and privates, stop attending the usual classes. These are only temporary 'stops', but they still leave me feeling a bit 'out of sorts'. Unable to truly relax into the comfort of this little house, with a roaring fire, dogs around my feet, all the comforts of home; yet something is missing.

So, what am I doing about it? Reading, playing on the computer, I went into Bridget's class at YogaTejas yesterday, I also sent an e-mail to Certified and Inspired instructors in the No. San Diego area telling them I'm moving into the area. All have responded with welcoming e-mails. A few comments like "you want to drive this far to sub?" -- gives me pause, as I didn't think Fallbrook was that far away; after all, I've been used to driving distances to attend and teach class. My response: YES, I want to teach. Sounds like I'm really missing the teaching. Don't miss the old house, yet; don't miss the 'stuff' from the old house (which is on a moving truck somewhere), yet; but I AM missing teaching.

Once a bit settled, I see that my work is cut out for me -- I need to find people; people to teach yoga to; people who want to experience yoga. Yes, that's what I need to plan for.

So, about the reading -- nothing great or philosophical, just a 'chick' kind of book. And, the computer -- checking and re-checking e-mails, blogs and Facebook. Class with Bridget was a good one and showed me that I do not push myself hard enough when I'm alone. And, I have been responding to e-mails from those I contacted about the move. Next e-mail -- to my new mentor. Feel like I need to do something with that part of my life, as well.

Our timeline is falling into place. I will leave Driggs on Friday (Howard will have already departed - business trip Thursday). We'll stay in SLC Friday night, pick up cats and bird early Saturday and head out for Fallbrook. Hope to make it all the way on Saturday, get a key from somewhere to the new house, camp in the house until Monday when the moving van arrives. Monday will be entirely devoted to unloading and placing big furniture. Tues, Weds & Thurs devoted to unpacking boxes, perhaps hang some artwork (that's always one thing that happens early in our settling into a house). Fri, Sat, Sun - more of same PLUS Desiree is doing a workshop hosted by YogaDelMar, somewhere. I've signed up -- a dose of Des will be good for me.

Today? Cleaning and sorting at this house - we won't return for a few months, so want to leave it in good order (for the caretaker?). Maybe a trip into Driggs. But first, write my mentor.

Have a great Wednesday. Gentle Yoga students reading this: Please, go to class!

WHERE AM I?

Driggs, Idaho. Small town just west of the Tetons from Jackson, WY. Gateway to Grand Targhee Ski Resort. One stoplight. One great fishing lodge, www.tetonvalleylodge.com. And the home to YogaTejas (yoga studio co-owned by Cate Stillman and Bridget Lyons).

We have a small home here, where we have ensconced ourselves until time to drive to San Diego.

This photo was taken when there was much less snow on the ground. Today, the snow reaches the railings of the deck; tho, Spring is in the air. The roads are clear (or muddy, if you're on one of the dirt ones), which makes for good trailer driving (we brought a U-Haul up here with most of our ski stuff, plus misc.).

Move-in date for the Fallbrook home looks to be March 21-22 -- depending on movers, I guess.

The move-out was long and a bit challenging. Movers arrived at 8 am, finished packing and began shifting boxes/furniture to the garage (staging area for the load). At 9:30 pm, they were done. Back to clean and load our U-Haul on Friday. Closed the door on that house and phase of our lives at 2:30 pm Friday, March 11.

Most remarkable thing about the move? In the midst of Wednesday's packing, I received notification from Anusara that my Certification mentor has been assigned!!!

Talk about the 'perfect storm' -- this move will be one I don't forget (like the pain of childbirth).

Today? Return the trailer; sign papers for Fallbrook home; practice; organize ski/winter stuff in this house.

Hope your Monday is a great one,

AND, ON THE OTHER 'FRONTS' . . .

My last post related to teaching at The Yoga Center and the privates I've been doing over the last many months (It's a Wrap). As in, this chapter of teaching closes. Another one waits to be written/opened/read/whatever.

This morning it is REALLY early - 4 am. Today, the moving van arrives. Last night I slept among boxes with no lamps (except in-wall fixtures), the counter my 'safe haven' of "DO NOT PACK" items (car keys being one example), and my coffee maker safely ensconced in the corner (another do not pack item). I truly had forgotten what 'moving' means - it must fall into the category of birthing pain; once it's over, we forget.

My morning routine stays the same -- up, turn on coffee, take care of teeth-hair-etc., sit, first cup of coffee with the computer. Ahhh, routine. I now know why people do not want to move as they age - had we waited 5 more years, we might have fallen into that category. It's just too much work and it reveals too much about our personalities. Things like:

• How many pairs of shoes, sweaters, jeans, etc., does one really need?
• What is lurking on the floor of our closets? (I thought mine were fairly decent, until I got in there.)
• How about drawers? Are you willing to have someone opening and looking inside the places you tend to 'shove' stuff (for lack of a better, more appropriate, storage spot).
• Can you remember what that strange piece of grey plastic (4x6) comes from? And, if not, should you throw it away?
• And, let's not even go into all the mental machinations we have to go through -- breathe, Leslie, breathe.

Using Tal Rachleff's principles of storytelling, here's a brief summation:

You think moving will be a piece of cake, the path to 'nirvana'.

But really, it's a test of your ability to stay calm in the middle of a perfect storm.

So, if you'll just breathe while making lots of lists and use this opportunity to 'clean house'.

Then you'll truly be happier, ready to face the next 'chapter' with steady resolve, knowing you've done the best you can -- purna (Sanskrit: full, perfect).

Well, Tal, it's an attempt.

As you all know, I read several blogs with great dedication (specifically, MariaCristina, Christina Sell, and Karen Sprute-Francovich). There are others on my list that I check in on, plus those my attention is drawn to via Facebook. Good learning from all, and all are very different from one another.

For example, today, MariaCristina writes about allowing her own voice to be good enough, and enjoying the fruits of the acceptance. Karen wrote about the power of standing in tadasana - not such a simple act - and the studentship (adhikara) required. Christina wrote about several things, including time spent with JF recently. One quote jumped off the page: "And again, the guru is not the person who is opening the door. The guru is that function of opening the door."

I loved the quote. And, I think it is important for me to read things like this once in a while. I tend to give people too much power, so this puts JF in perspective for me. Over the years, I cannot negate the influence he and Ansuara® yoga have had on my life. It's 'over-the-top'. But, really, I had to open the door; I had to let something in. JF showed me a way to open the door on another part of my life. Hope that makes sense - it is early, after all.

Today? The BIG truck arrives; packers finish (and I thought I had done a LOT of packing over the past 10 days); truck gets loaded; truck goes somewhere to wait for the journey to California (arriving on the 21st, we think).

As for me (us)? We'll go to a hotel tonight, finish cleaning tomorrow, then it's off to Driggs on Saturday morning. We'll enjoy the vagaries of the Teton Valley in March for about 10 days, then we'll head south (stopping in SLC to pick up one car, 2 cats and 1 bird - dogs will be with us, as well). And then, it's south to the new 'stomping grounds' -- Fallbrook, CA.

Before I sign off, I think I wrote about my grandson, Brady's, diaper rash a few weeks ago (if I didn't, I should have). And, the trust he displayed in me as I cleaned, applied Aquaphor, and re-diapered him? Well, last night, I got a phone call. Initially it was my daughter-in-law, then she put a small voice on the phone (Brady). Why? He wanted to thank me for taking care of his 'red bottom' -- this is one month later, and he was reminded because his little brother now has a 'red bottom'. And, this is from a 2 1/2 year old. So cute!

Mr. B (about 2 months ago)

Enjoy your Thursday,

IT'S A WRAP . . .

Monday morning; the beginning of my last 5 days in SLC. I would be lying if I said I was terribly saddened, but it is bittersweet. And, last night, I had to meet many of my students and friends, face-to-face, to say 'See Ya Later'. (Have I told you that I intensely dislike and avoid the word(s) 'good-bye'?)

Current faces were in the room, plus a few I hadn't seen for a while. The Gentle Yoga students were there 'en masse' (that one's for Jean - my retired French teacher & student). We've had a great run together, all of us. I hope they are taking away from me even a fraction of what I have learned from them. Wonderful, giving group!

Received wonderful compliments, some cards, flowers, and even a few gifts. Two were remarkable because of the classroom history and stories behind them, so I'll share here:

One, a chrome 'Mudflap Girl' - a pose (derivation: truckdrivers, but the first place I heard it was in an Arizona yoga class). This pose is a fav of the Gentle students - allows them to be the free spirits they were always meant to be, laugh and have fun with their yoga. I will have it in a prominent place in my California home -- though it might look nice as a necklace (2"x4" -- is that too big? On a chain that lands just above the bra. What'cha think?)

Then, from my French teacher student, two quotes heard coming out of her mouth - calligraphed (this spelling doesn't look right, but I checked it), one on each side of a small glass frame. The first I heard several years ago, when she was relatively new to me. Had everyone in some standing pose, counting breaths, and out of the group comes "Gentle, my ass" -- not too loud, but loud enough to be heard by all. The second, heard more frequently these days, "I'm okay". That's a longer story, just as meaningful - perhaps more to me than you, so I'll save it. (See picture at top.)

The little glass frame and the 'mudflap girl' will be treasures that remind me of some great times.

Today? Back to packing, but first a trip to the dentist and a visit with Noah Maze.

Hope you have a wonderful Monday,

BEFORE I GET DISTRACTED . . .

Yes, before I get distracted by mundane things like packing a house full of possessions accumulated in two peoples' lifetimes -- including before and during the 29+ years of marriage (right now the exact # escapes me), better write in the blog. I am not beating myself up for not writing, but each morning the little 'blog icon' stares woefully at me, as if asking "today? will you give me some attention today?" More times than not in the past few weeks, I've been answering 'no, sorry, not today."

Participating in the "90-Minute Kula" (that's my moniker for it, not sure if anyone else is calling it that), has exposed me to over 100 new sources - people - of information, ideas, thoughts, inspiration, etc. One of those is a teacher from California, who has generously offered his ideas on 'story-telling'. So far, he has written a comprehensive essay (for lack of a better word) for our reading, he has done a short video on the topic, and he has recommended some good books (anyone else heard of "Linchpin"?), which I have ordered. His purpose is a spin-off to one sentence Amy said about telling stories in our classes, and he is expanding on that and giving us the gift of understanding where, when & how our stories will have the most impact (even, if they are the right story to tell -- because, frankly, some things are just plain boring).

Why tell you this? Because I intend for this blog to benefit from that new knowledge. More inspired and effective from now on, folks. Just wait, watch & read.

Back to my original thought -- what, do tell, is going on that I'm packing up all possessions? Husband and I are moving -- in case you missed this in last weeks' posts. We are going to sunny So. California, after a brief trip to snowy Idaho next week. Yes, next week -- Friday, in fact, the house will be emptied. Moving truck will go somewhere to wait for the journey south on about the 20th of March, and we will go north with a load of winter clothes and ski gear to our cabin in Driggs. (The sale and purchase almost lined up, with a week to spare, so we move out, then wait. Where better to wait than Driggs, ID?)

All of this has been a logistical challenge - it's been many years since we moved last (17!); prior to that we had moved something like 13 times in 12 years. Many were company moves, a few were within communities. Packing, organizing, thinking through what goes where, how to get rid of things - trash/treasure/stuff -- all this has me making many lists, but my head is still spinning a bit.

Yesterday morning, I gave myself a couple hours off and went to Adam Ballenger's class. I began my study with Adam about 8 years ago, shortly after his move to SLC. During this time, my appreciation for Anusara® Yoga grew under his tutelage. I attended his classes 2-3 times each week for many of these years, did an Immersion with Adam, taught for him for a short time, and - over the years - developed a long list of 'Adam-isms'. What's an 'Adam-ism'? It's the way he phrases something as he teaches, or a specific set of movements (unique to Adam) that will help to keep us safe in poses.

As I practiced yesterday (which, by the way, was challenging -- packing does all kinds of fun stuff to your hips and shoulders), the 'Adam-isms' kept re-surfacing, even if he wasn't necessarily teaching that 'ism'. I am so deeply steeped in his teaching, that I will never forget. And, I will always give him credit for a HUGE portion of the knowledge I have. Thank you, Adam; you will always have my gratitude.

My tip? Try never to forget where or from whom the knowledge came. That has served me well. I am a better teacher for that knowledge, and the ability to give credit (even if it isn't spoken out loud, just within my own head), keeps me grateful and humble.

I did take the opportunity to offer a 'Leslie-ism' in class yesterday -- haven't done that before. If you're curious, go back and read about 'extending through the wrists'. It partnered so well with what he was teaching, that the segue was there -- I took it.

So, enough -- got to get back to packing.

Today?

• Packing
• A break for a movie? (the secret of effective packing is to allow time for frequent 'self-love' breaks, i.e. a yoga class, a movie -- like that)
• Going Away Potluck at The Yoga Center, 7:15pm. If you're in the area, you are welcome and I'd love to see you.

Enjoy Sunday,

90-MINUTE ADVERTISEMENT

In the month of February, I participated in the webinar series conducted by Amy Ippoliti and titled '90-Minutes to Change the World'.

Purpose? For her, it was an opportunity to help local instructors grow their classes. Why? She noticed workshops, well attended; local classes, not so in many cases. For me, another learning opportunity that offered a more 'nuts and bolts' approach to the 'business' of teaching yoga. Because, after all, it is a business in addition to an opportunity for us to share our knowledge with others.

Result? A good source of information in a stress-free format. The additional unknown is an opportunity to connect with a curious and knowledgeable group of yoga teachers from around the country (correct that - it should be 'world' - people on the site from Singapore, Australia, etc.)

I highly recommend it. (You can get information through Amy's Facebook page or her website.)

And, as I pack my house in preparation to relocate to Southern California, there are many insights that I'll put to good use as I prepare to start over, building classes, meeting a new community of yoga (and soon-to-be) yoga practitioners.

Yes, moving -- in about 10 days, to Fallbrook, CA (a bit north and east of Carlsbad, CA - the home of our youngest 'Grand-Dudes'). This move began six months ago as a "3-year plan", designed to give us a goal of down-sizing, planning, being closer to these little 'grand dudes' - not to mention son and daughter-in-law. Obviously, it began to spin faster with the sale of my studio. Then there were trips to visit the family, resulting in curiosity 'window shopping' for houses. Soon, we were making offers on houses. Then we needed to sell the SLC house, so it went on the market. Many months sooner than 3 years, we are moving. Fallbrook house bought; Salt Lake house sold; we are packing!

Excited for this new journey. Not excited to leave teaching friends from SLC, but there may be opportunities to see people at workshops and trainings. Students? I know there will be good replacements (I've arranged for privates to be taken care of); studio classes, Lyndsey (one of the owners) will take them on for me. Things for this part of my life are falling into place. So, onward.

Until I leave SLC, classes will remain same until Weds., Mar. 9.

Today?

• 9:15, teaching Level 1-2 class at The Yoga Center
• House stuff - which means more packing
• Hair appointment - ahhh, any excuse to move away from the packing for a little bit

Hope you have a great Tuesday,

SO, HOW'd IT GO?

"Guest Teaching" for Adam Ballenger, that is. It went well.

There were not as many people in class as when Adam teaches, but - since he announced he would be gone and there would be a 'guest teacher' - that's to be expected. Interesting that many students find exploring a new or different instructor - even for one class - is out of their realm of possibility.

A guest teacher, to me, means - at the very least (most?) - an opportunity to practice my beginner mind. Rather than skip the class, I look for the possibility of viewing my practice from a different angle or perspective. That's part of the yoga.

It brings to mind the year I was in Tucson with JF for a Therapeutics Training. He excused himself from the training after day two, and left - in his stead - Noah Maze, Sianna Sherman, and Martin Kirk. Each very different styles of teachers, but each with great knowledge to share. I remember being disappointed at JF's unexpected departure, but tried to understand. I also remember that it was hard to watch the others step in, try to fill his shoes, teach us -- not because they weren't measuring up, but because my expectation had been that it would be JF teaching, not someone else. I remember listening and comparing what each had to say to what I might be hearing if JF were at the front of class. Then, I decided to soften, to put on my 'beginner mind', to understand and relax. From each of them, I took information -- perhaps even more detailed that I might have otherwise received (no offense, John). This because they were each quite overwhelmed, themselves, by being thrust into this situation. We all survived. I learned. I'm sure they learned they were well capable of 'stepping up to the plate'. It turned out just fine.

But, back to your local yoga class -- I've noted that students new-to-yoga tend to latch onto the first (or one of the first) instructors they experience (I remember I did it). These first instructors make such an impact, introducing yoga to people, that it's hard to think someone else might do just as well. So, many students stay with that instructor and avoid any exposure to others (unless it's a surprise), even to the point of staying away from their yoga class when there is a 'guest teacher'. Oh, well, it's a 'human thing'.

The four students who did show up got to journey into bird of paradise pose. This has never been a favorite of mine, but I love to teach it and to watch students open to places they thought inaccessible. And, for these beautiful students, it just took activating both feet and opening their hearts to experience the pose more fully than previously.

Today?

• Just house stuff
• Perhaps run a few errands

Hope your Sunday is great