20 April 2007
16 April 2007
Last day
Wow, this week went by fast. We're back in Lisbon. We had a good time in Setubal. Marco and his friends showed us all around the city, we went to a winery, had a nice drive along the coast with beautyful views on the city, saw castles (castelo). We also enjoyed our rest next to the swimmingpool in the hotel. Had great dinners, tried local dishes, took the ferry .. wow can hardly think of what we all did these past couple of days.
Now we are back in Lisbon enjoying our last day. This morning a quick stop at the aquaduct, which was beautyfull and the rest of the day we sat in sun, enjoying our coffees, ice creams and all other drinks ..... and ofcourse try the get a bit of a tan ... eheh, that's always something I like working on.
All I can say ... I had an awesome time here in Portugal. I know I will get back here, but now it's time to go.
Now we are back in Lisbon enjoying our last day. This morning a quick stop at the aquaduct, which was beautyfull and the rest of the day we sat in sun, enjoying our coffees, ice creams and all other drinks ..... and ofcourse try the get a bit of a tan ... eheh, that's always something I like working on.
All I can say ... I had an awesome time here in Portugal. I know I will get back here, but now it's time to go.
14 April 2007
Lifestyle
Yesterday morning we left Lisbon to go to Setubal to visit Marco. We stayed in touch after we met in NZ, so since I'm in Portugal now, I might as well visit.
We took the train to Setubal, which was all quite easy. It was a nice train ride which gave a good opportunity to see some more of Portugal than just the capital. The scenery was a nice, the sun was shining and before we knew we arrived in Setubal.
Marco told me the hotel was close to his club Lifestyle, so we decided to go walk over there once we arrived to the hotel. And indeed it was close, unfortunately there was this highway in between and there was no way we could cross it. We were thinking of doing it, but climbing over the fence and then making the front page of the newpaper ... mmm..... not a very good idea, so we walked all the way around. Right when we stepped into the club, we felt welcome. There was a nice lady sitting at the reception and she jumped up to get Marco. It was good to see him again and he invited us to do BA. We decided to do that as we brought or stuff. He also asked us to teamteach with him for BA in the evening ... uuuuuhhhh.... 2 BA classes???? Sure why not.
It was fun to participate in a Portugese BA class. Not a single word we could understand, but still we could do the class. After class we stayed and chatted, then we went to the mall to get something to eat real quick and then went back for BP and BA class. Marco said Nivaldo was teaching, so we joined his class too. It was good the see him again as well. With the shouldertrack he invited us to join him on stage. It was fun to do. And by understanding the looks in the eyes of the participants they enjoyed it. Even though this was not prepared it was a fun performance, some how a BP team was created at that time knowing what we could expect and all knowing what to do. Cool !!
After BP it was time for BA!!!! It was so much fun and it was special too. The people in class did really well. We were teaching in english as my portugese still isn't very good, but it seemed that they could understand as they were doing the things we said. All smiling faces in the studio.
After class people came up and talked and said they really enjoyed it. Thanks you guys!
We went back to the hotel, to freshen up and we were going to have dinner and go out with Marco, Joana and David. We had a great evening, drank too much Sangria, wine and other stuff, we pulled behind the bar in a club to fix drinks. I assume it didn't look very professional as I had never done it before, but who cares... we had fun. It was pas 05.00 am when we saw our bed again. I'll post some pictures later.
We took the train to Setubal, which was all quite easy. It was a nice train ride which gave a good opportunity to see some more of Portugal than just the capital. The scenery was a nice, the sun was shining and before we knew we arrived in Setubal.
Marco told me the hotel was close to his club Lifestyle, so we decided to go walk over there once we arrived to the hotel. And indeed it was close, unfortunately there was this highway in between and there was no way we could cross it. We were thinking of doing it, but climbing over the fence and then making the front page of the newpaper ... mmm..... not a very good idea, so we walked all the way around. Right when we stepped into the club, we felt welcome. There was a nice lady sitting at the reception and she jumped up to get Marco. It was good to see him again and he invited us to do BA. We decided to do that as we brought or stuff. He also asked us to teamteach with him for BA in the evening ... uuuuuhhhh.... 2 BA classes???? Sure why not.
It was fun to participate in a Portugese BA class. Not a single word we could understand, but still we could do the class. After class we stayed and chatted, then we went to the mall to get something to eat real quick and then went back for BP and BA class. Marco said Nivaldo was teaching, so we joined his class too. It was good the see him again as well. With the shouldertrack he invited us to join him on stage. It was fun to do. And by understanding the looks in the eyes of the participants they enjoyed it. Even though this was not prepared it was a fun performance, some how a BP team was created at that time knowing what we could expect and all knowing what to do. Cool !!
After BP it was time for BA!!!! It was so much fun and it was special too. The people in class did really well. We were teaching in english as my portugese still isn't very good, but it seemed that they could understand as they were doing the things we said. All smiling faces in the studio.
After class people came up and talked and said they really enjoyed it. Thanks you guys!
We went back to the hotel, to freshen up and we were going to have dinner and go out with Marco, Joana and David. We had a great evening, drank too much Sangria, wine and other stuff, we pulled behind the bar in a club to fix drinks. I assume it didn't look very professional as I had never done it before, but who cares... we had fun. It was pas 05.00 am when we saw our bed again. I'll post some pictures later.
12 April 2007
Some more Portugal
And yet another day ... still having fun, even though the sun isn´t shining at the moment. It´s not raining and it´s not cold, so that´s important.
Yesterday we have been working out... hahaha.... we went to a gym nearby, no classes offered, but there was a swimming pool, so we did some laps and relaxed for a bit in the sauna. Then we walked around the city some more and sat down and had an ice cream ... big one :-)
In the evening we went to the same restaurant as the day before. There was this really nice waiter and the food was good.
This morning we took the metro, to the train station and then took the train to Cascais. A train ride all along the coast, with nice views. At the moment just a quick stop at the Internet café, as we will move to Setubal for 2 days before we go home, and we still needed to book the hotel.
So that´s also a possibility to do a short update on my blog.
In Setubal we will try to do a few LM classes. Let you know more if we manage to do so.
Yesterday we have been working out... hahaha.... we went to a gym nearby, no classes offered, but there was a swimming pool, so we did some laps and relaxed for a bit in the sauna. Then we walked around the city some more and sat down and had an ice cream ... big one :-)
In the evening we went to the same restaurant as the day before. There was this really nice waiter and the food was good.
This morning we took the metro, to the train station and then took the train to Cascais. A train ride all along the coast, with nice views. At the moment just a quick stop at the Internet café, as we will move to Setubal for 2 days before we go home, and we still needed to book the hotel.
So that´s also a possibility to do a short update on my blog.
In Setubal we will try to do a few LM classes. Let you know more if we manage to do so.
10 April 2007
Lisbon, Portugal
Monday
Wow, it´s great here. Yesterday we arrived on time in Lisbon, and had to wait for a long time b4 we got our luggage. Then we took the taxi to the hotel. The hotel, The Meridian, is awesome!!!
We got a good rate for the hotel as they offered airline discount. It´s just amazing. We have a beautiful view from the room over the Pq. Eduardo VII and we can even see the Tajo River. Big beds, superb shower, it´s all very luxurious. Our bags were taken to the room (we did not have to carry anything)... it was just great. The last couple of trips I made I have mostly been backpacking and stayed in hostels or very cheap hotels ... so this is quite a difference.
After we freshened up ourselves we left to hotel to see some of the city. It was about 11.30 when left. We already saw a lot of the city. We walked down towards the water. There is this big street going down, Avenido Liberdade it´s like those french boulevards. Very beautiful. We stopped for coffee and some lunch , enjoyed the sun. We walked thru these small streets, walked up and down stairs, it´s all so sweet to see. Saw Rossio, a big square in the heart of the City, went to Terreiro do Paço fro which they say it the most beautyfull square. All little trams stop there, they look a little like the San Francisco trams. We walked again thru these small streets, just enjoying Lisbon. Then we arrived at Castelo San Jorge, which is way upon a hill and gives very nice views all over town. Had some ice cream there .... mjummy and then we wanted to go back to the hotel. hat wasn´t the easiest thing to do, but with some use of our map we managed to get back. We could feel our feet and my eyes were having a hard time to stay open. I only slept 1 hour on the plane after my night shift.
We went to a shopping center nearby the hotel and something to eat. Fell asleep right after my head hit the pillow at around 22.30.
Tuesday
Slept till about nine in the morning. We had breakfast in he hotel. Oh man ..... it´s good. A huge breakfast buffet with just about anything you can think of for breakfast. Mmmm, maybe not so good when you thinks there won´t be any BA, BP or any other class to teach tonight.. haha
Today we decided to behave like real tourists and take one of these tourist buses from which you can hop on and hop off all the time.
The first couple of stops we stayed on the bus, as we already were there yesterday. We got out the bus at the Belem tower. The tower was built in 1515 as a fortress to guard the entrance to Lisbon's harbor, the Belem Tower was the starting point for many of the voyages of discovery, and for the sailors it was the last sight of their homeland. We found a nice place to enjoy the sun, have a cappuccino and chat. I think we sat for about an hour walked back to a beautiful church, from which a can´t remember the name and took the bus from there. On the way we had a good view on the ponte 25 apr, which is a bridge made by the same architect as the Golden Gate bridge. It looks the same too. Driving past M. Pobal square going to the top of Parque Eduardo VII. This was a nice place to have a view over town again. Then walked back a saw some clouds coming. Let´s hope it won´t start to rain. Time to find a place to have dinner now.
Wow, it´s great here. Yesterday we arrived on time in Lisbon, and had to wait for a long time b4 we got our luggage. Then we took the taxi to the hotel. The hotel, The Meridian, is awesome!!!
We got a good rate for the hotel as they offered airline discount. It´s just amazing. We have a beautiful view from the room over the Pq. Eduardo VII and we can even see the Tajo River. Big beds, superb shower, it´s all very luxurious. Our bags were taken to the room (we did not have to carry anything)... it was just great. The last couple of trips I made I have mostly been backpacking and stayed in hostels or very cheap hotels ... so this is quite a difference.
After we freshened up ourselves we left to hotel to see some of the city. It was about 11.30 when left. We already saw a lot of the city. We walked down towards the water. There is this big street going down, Avenido Liberdade it´s like those french boulevards. Very beautiful. We stopped for coffee and some lunch , enjoyed the sun. We walked thru these small streets, walked up and down stairs, it´s all so sweet to see. Saw Rossio, a big square in the heart of the City, went to Terreiro do Paço fro which they say it the most beautyfull square. All little trams stop there, they look a little like the San Francisco trams. We walked again thru these small streets, just enjoying Lisbon. Then we arrived at Castelo San Jorge, which is way upon a hill and gives very nice views all over town. Had some ice cream there .... mjummy and then we wanted to go back to the hotel. hat wasn´t the easiest thing to do, but with some use of our map we managed to get back. We could feel our feet and my eyes were having a hard time to stay open. I only slept 1 hour on the plane after my night shift.
We went to a shopping center nearby the hotel and something to eat. Fell asleep right after my head hit the pillow at around 22.30.
Tuesday
Slept till about nine in the morning. We had breakfast in he hotel. Oh man ..... it´s good. A huge breakfast buffet with just about anything you can think of for breakfast. Mmmm, maybe not so good when you thinks there won´t be any BA, BP or any other class to teach tonight.. haha
Today we decided to behave like real tourists and take one of these tourist buses from which you can hop on and hop off all the time.
The first couple of stops we stayed on the bus, as we already were there yesterday. We got out the bus at the Belem tower. The tower was built in 1515 as a fortress to guard the entrance to Lisbon's harbor, the Belem Tower was the starting point for many of the voyages of discovery, and for the sailors it was the last sight of their homeland. We found a nice place to enjoy the sun, have a cappuccino and chat. I think we sat for about an hour walked back to a beautiful church, from which a can´t remember the name and took the bus from there. On the way we had a good view on the ponte 25 apr, which is a bridge made by the same architect as the Golden Gate bridge. It looks the same too. Driving past M. Pobal square going to the top of Parque Eduardo VII. This was a nice place to have a view over town again. Then walked back a saw some clouds coming. Let´s hope it won´t start to rain. Time to find a place to have dinner now.
09 April 2007
Nightshift
It´s in the middle of my nightshift. Not very busy, so okay to hit the internet :-)
Today was a good day. This morning I had to wake up at 8.15, as we had a meeting at the new club I´m going to teach at in Amsterdam. Pretty hard to wake up as I was home at 6.15 from work. With some red bull I managed to do so. At 09.00 we started with a couple presentations of the owners and the group fitness mangers. Than a couple of instructors had to present a track. We did 3 BC tracks, 3 BA tracks 1 BJ track and 1 BB track. I had to do track 2 of BA. The studio isn´t finished yet, but the stage was there already. It´s big and there´s room enough for team-teaching. Pretty cool. The studio is pretty big as well. The presentations for fun to do and it was nice meeting the new colleagues as well. The there was a surprise for us... a BP presentation from 2 mystery guests... Susan and Steve. It was great to have them over a the club ... even on Easter Sunday. Afterwards we went for lunch with them with a couple of people. Susan had her cousin over from England and made him do BP as well ...
Then I got home, tried to sleep, but wasn´t able to, as I was still excited about the day and I still had to pack my bags. At 22.30 I left to go to work again ..... I had only slept for 1 1/2 hours..... Now it´s getting tough ... I will finish in about 2 hrs. Claudia will come to the airport and at 06.50 our flight to Lisbon leaves ... yesssss. Hope I´ll get some sleep on board.
Talk to you later!
Today was a good day. This morning I had to wake up at 8.15, as we had a meeting at the new club I´m going to teach at in Amsterdam. Pretty hard to wake up as I was home at 6.15 from work. With some red bull I managed to do so. At 09.00 we started with a couple presentations of the owners and the group fitness mangers. Than a couple of instructors had to present a track. We did 3 BC tracks, 3 BA tracks 1 BJ track and 1 BB track. I had to do track 2 of BA. The studio isn´t finished yet, but the stage was there already. It´s big and there´s room enough for team-teaching. Pretty cool. The studio is pretty big as well. The presentations for fun to do and it was nice meeting the new colleagues as well. The there was a surprise for us... a BP presentation from 2 mystery guests... Susan and Steve. It was great to have them over a the club ... even on Easter Sunday. Afterwards we went for lunch with them with a couple of people. Susan had her cousin over from England and made him do BP as well ...
Then I got home, tried to sleep, but wasn´t able to, as I was still excited about the day and I still had to pack my bags. At 22.30 I left to go to work again ..... I had only slept for 1 1/2 hours..... Now it´s getting tough ... I will finish in about 2 hrs. Claudia will come to the airport and at 06.50 our flight to Lisbon leaves ... yesssss. Hope I´ll get some sleep on board.
Talk to you later!
31 March 2007
Bodies, The Exhibition
Today I went to Bodies, The Exhibition. It was in "De Beurs van Berlage" in Amsterdam. Like it's already in the name, it's an exhibition all about the human body. I heard about it via a friend of mine, she is a physiotherapist and went there a couple of months ago. When she told me about it, I thought it was a bit odd, as it's all real parts of the human body which are exposed there. Muscles, bones, the human nervous system. But after I heard some more about it, I became more interested and when Claudia asked me if I wanted to go I said yes.
And it really was impressive. It's just amazing to see how a human body is build up. I think everybody knows the pictures from their Biology book at school .. but to see this in real......
Every tiny blood vessel, muscle, bone etc it was shown. And if you really think about that this all could be made within one minute :-).....
More amazing that all these things put together is the human body. The human body which makes me able to BODYPUMP, BODYATTACK and so much more. By the way: human lungs were also shown .. smokers and non-smokers. Am I glad I'm a non smoker, the smokers lungs almost looked like the highway, all covered with tar ....
Like to know more, click here
And it really was impressive. It's just amazing to see how a human body is build up. I think everybody knows the pictures from their Biology book at school .. but to see this in real......
Every tiny blood vessel, muscle, bone etc it was shown. And if you really think about that this all could be made within one minute :-).....
More amazing that all these things put together is the human body. The human body which makes me able to BODYPUMP, BODYATTACK and so much more. By the way: human lungs were also shown .. smokers and non-smokers. Am I glad I'm a non smoker, the smokers lungs almost looked like the highway, all covered with tar ....
Like to know more, click here
24 March 2007
Fear? or NO Fear?
I read this somewhere and somehow it reminds me of a Synchro training camp in 1995 in Calgary, Canada.
The other side of fear
Most of your fears would disappear if you would simply decide to walk right up to them.
Fear has only the power that you give it.
Your fears can intimidate you or they can illuminate you.
The choice is entirely up to you.
Your fears can stop you or they can prepare you. And you get to decide which it will be.
Listen to each fear just long enough to absorb the useful and reasonable information it may contain. Then realize that once that is done, it is time to move on beyond the fear.
On the other side of fear, there is value, there is accomplishment, there is fulfillment.
See fear as the gateway that it is, and make the choice to carefully and persistently go through it.
Allow the fear to prepare you well, then move on past it. And be amazed at the great things you can do.
Why does it remind me of the training camp? Well, first of all our theme and yell during the training camp was: Absolutely, Positively, Most Definitely, without a doubt: NO FEAR!
It was a six week training camp to prepare for FINA World Cup and the qualifying meet for Atlanta Olympics 1996 (which we unfortunately missed). The training camp was all about going beyond your limits, push ourselves further and to not be afraid. Not only in Synchro, but with everything. One thing for example was the 10m diving platform. We were all very scared to jump of the platform.... but we all did it. We did the most extreme things. Things I can remember are, swimming our free routine 11 times in a row. Which is crazy as you're dead tired after swimming it once. The only rest we had in between, was the swim back to the deck and then the music started again. We had to swim under water as far as possible. We had girls on the team swimming 100m (not me, I saw little stars already before 75m), who could hardly remember what they just did (they were almost out). Swimming 4 x 400m, trying to improve your time after every 400m. Only a short rest in between. We have been doing land drill for hours, Push ups, sit ups, flexibility.... deng .... sometimes I think I was crazy ..... but then again.... It was awesome to have been thru all of this. Learned so much from doing this all. And we also did lots of fun things during the weekends. Even though we trained 8 hours a day, we had the weekends of to have fun!!
But from having NO Fear (or at least trying to have no fear) at that time, it made me a stronger person and it made proud of the things I accomplished so far. And when I look back at all of this, I remember it all with a SMILE on my face. It was great!
The other side of fear
Most of your fears would disappear if you would simply decide to walk right up to them.
Fear has only the power that you give it.
Your fears can intimidate you or they can illuminate you.
The choice is entirely up to you.
Your fears can stop you or they can prepare you. And you get to decide which it will be.
Listen to each fear just long enough to absorb the useful and reasonable information it may contain. Then realize that once that is done, it is time to move on beyond the fear.
On the other side of fear, there is value, there is accomplishment, there is fulfillment.
See fear as the gateway that it is, and make the choice to carefully and persistently go through it.
Allow the fear to prepare you well, then move on past it. And be amazed at the great things you can do.
Why does it remind me of the training camp? Well, first of all our theme and yell during the training camp was: Absolutely, Positively, Most Definitely, without a doubt: NO FEAR!
It was a six week training camp to prepare for FINA World Cup and the qualifying meet for Atlanta Olympics 1996 (which we unfortunately missed). The training camp was all about going beyond your limits, push ourselves further and to not be afraid. Not only in Synchro, but with everything. One thing for example was the 10m diving platform. We were all very scared to jump of the platform.... but we all did it. We did the most extreme things. Things I can remember are, swimming our free routine 11 times in a row. Which is crazy as you're dead tired after swimming it once. The only rest we had in between, was the swim back to the deck and then the music started again. We had to swim under water as far as possible. We had girls on the team swimming 100m (not me, I saw little stars already before 75m), who could hardly remember what they just did (they were almost out). Swimming 4 x 400m, trying to improve your time after every 400m. Only a short rest in between. We have been doing land drill for hours, Push ups, sit ups, flexibility.... deng .... sometimes I think I was crazy ..... but then again.... It was awesome to have been thru all of this. Learned so much from doing this all. And we also did lots of fun things during the weekends. Even though we trained 8 hours a day, we had the weekends of to have fun!!
But from having NO Fear (or at least trying to have no fear) at that time, it made me a stronger person and it made proud of the things I accomplished so far. And when I look back at all of this, I remember it all with a SMILE on my face. It was great!
21 March 2007
Work and play
Work at the airport, play at the gym. Learning new choreo at home. Went out, had fun and tried to relax. Well the last thing didn't really happen, so I'm going to try to do that tonight. Try to finish a book and maybe watch some tv. Tomorrow I have the day of ... yesssss... only one day though. I'm looking forward to be a week of off work. After Easter I won't have to work for over a week. Will go to Portugal with a friend :-) Yessss... Let's hope the sun will shine.
14 March 2007
12 March 2007
Spring is in the air...
... and it gives me heaps of energy :-)!!! I just love it, the sun is shining and it makes me happy.
Last week I taught 3 hrs BA, also had my BP classes, did some practice for BA release 56, which I just love. Friday afternoon it cleared up after a week of rain, rain and some rain. I went out for dinner with a friend in Leiden Friday evening (Spanish tapa's). Saturday morning I planned to sleep in, but woke up at 06.30 and noticed the sun was shining. First I didn't want to get out of bed 'cause it was so early, but then I did, as I was restless. Had some breakfast, went to the gym, did BA team teach, went home, grabbed my bike and went for a bike ride, just to enjoy the sun. I took my regular bike, so it was more of an easy ride. All together it was about 40km. Saturday evening I did nothing, relaxed, watched TV etc. Sunday I turned my living room into a gym and did an hour of BA 56 :-), then took a shower, hopped on my bike again and went to Haarlem, where I met some friends for an English high tea. Good thing I took my bike instead of the car.... the high tea was good, but so also really bad.... (you know what I mean). The sun was shining again and it was so nice to be outside again. I just love the good weather. There were people everywhere, riding bikes, walking, people on skeelers, everyone was enjoying the sun.
Today the weather was good as well. I woke up this morning at 4.45 to go to work, so I had the afternoon off. When I came home I made myself comfortable in the doorway, sitting in the sun, where I couldn't feel the wind. Tried to read my book, but fell asleep for about 1 1/2.... it was good. Then I prepared a new mix for BP class this evening. I just heard I will be doing my BA class all by myself as my colleague can't make it. Too bad, but anyway I will make it a good class and make sure everyone has fun and works their butt off :-)
Talk to ya later...
Last week I taught 3 hrs BA, also had my BP classes, did some practice for BA release 56, which I just love. Friday afternoon it cleared up after a week of rain, rain and some rain. I went out for dinner with a friend in Leiden Friday evening (Spanish tapa's). Saturday morning I planned to sleep in, but woke up at 06.30 and noticed the sun was shining. First I didn't want to get out of bed 'cause it was so early, but then I did, as I was restless. Had some breakfast, went to the gym, did BA team teach, went home, grabbed my bike and went for a bike ride, just to enjoy the sun. I took my regular bike, so it was more of an easy ride. All together it was about 40km. Saturday evening I did nothing, relaxed, watched TV etc. Sunday I turned my living room into a gym and did an hour of BA 56 :-), then took a shower, hopped on my bike again and went to Haarlem, where I met some friends for an English high tea. Good thing I took my bike instead of the car.... the high tea was good, but so also really bad.... (you know what I mean). The sun was shining again and it was so nice to be outside again. I just love the good weather. There were people everywhere, riding bikes, walking, people on skeelers, everyone was enjoying the sun.
Today the weather was good as well. I woke up this morning at 4.45 to go to work, so I had the afternoon off. When I came home I made myself comfortable in the doorway, sitting in the sun, where I couldn't feel the wind. Tried to read my book, but fell asleep for about 1 1/2.... it was good. Then I prepared a new mix for BP class this evening. I just heard I will be doing my BA class all by myself as my colleague can't make it. Too bad, but anyway I will make it a good class and make sure everyone has fun and works their butt off :-)
Talk to ya later...
26 February 2007
1st Quarterly 2007
This weekend was a so called Les Mills weekend. It started Thursday evening. Claudia, a friend of mine, came over. She taught BP with Aubrey and me, BA as well. The next day we went to Nieuwegein for our Masterclasses, workshops and some assessment. It was quite a long day, but I had a good time. It was fun doing the Masterclasses presented by our own trainers, which I done in New Zealand before. I think the workshops are very good. BP workshop is all about head and neck stability. Unfortunately we've got mirrors in our club. Most member just love to watch themselves in the mirror, which very often makes that they don't listen, or hear the instructors comments to help 'm improve. By looking in the mirror all the time, their neck alignment is all gone.
Why do we want a good head and neck alignment? So we do not damage or injure our neck or upper back, so we can maintain good posture and lift weights from a solid platform.
How? Lengthen the back of your neck, and gently tuck in your chin. Always keep your eyes forward!
BA presentation was fun as well. I really enjoyed B. and K. teaching the masterclass.
I was pretty tired by the end of day, but I still had to do BC masterclass. Both Tiny C. and I looked at eachother and didn't really feel like doing it, but a well, as assessor we should set an example, so we went for it. And was I glad... by the time we started track 3, I was energized and I had so much fun. Thanks C. and D. for being awesome motivators!
Saturday I had to go to work first and then I went to Nieuwegein for assesment. Claudia came back to Hoofddorp again. We had dinner from Toko Pandora and I fell a sleep early ( I was awake since 4.45 am) Sunday same thing, Work at the airport first, did assesment and also did my BB Masterclass. I loved it. Still think it isnt easy, as it's all fairly new, but a great challenge!
Next weekend the last weekend for 1 st quarterly 2007. Then all of Holland is ready for all the new releases.
Tonight BA/BP night. Tomorrow work and lunch/shopping with a collegue in Haarlem and wednesday 1 day off of work. I probably have to do some housework :-(
Why do we want a good head and neck alignment? So we do not damage or injure our neck or upper back, so we can maintain good posture and lift weights from a solid platform.
How? Lengthen the back of your neck, and gently tuck in your chin. Always keep your eyes forward!
BA presentation was fun as well. I really enjoyed B. and K. teaching the masterclass.
I was pretty tired by the end of day, but I still had to do BC masterclass. Both Tiny C. and I looked at eachother and didn't really feel like doing it, but a well, as assessor we should set an example, so we went for it. And was I glad... by the time we started track 3, I was energized and I had so much fun. Thanks C. and D. for being awesome motivators!
Saturday I had to go to work first and then I went to Nieuwegein for assesment. Claudia came back to Hoofddorp again. We had dinner from Toko Pandora and I fell a sleep early ( I was awake since 4.45 am) Sunday same thing, Work at the airport first, did assesment and also did my BB Masterclass. I loved it. Still think it isnt easy, as it's all fairly new, but a great challenge!
Next weekend the last weekend for 1 st quarterly 2007. Then all of Holland is ready for all the new releases.
Tonight BA/BP night. Tomorrow work and lunch/shopping with a collegue in Haarlem and wednesday 1 day off of work. I probably have to do some housework :-(
21 February 2007
19 February 2007
Weekend
Wow, Monday again. Time went by fast over the weekend. Friday I had a late shift at work. It wasn't very busy. Saturday morning there was no time to sleep in, as I had to go to Zwolle to the quarterly. I did assessment only this weekend. Next weekend I will be doing my own masterclasses and workshops. I was quite a drive to go there. I did BP and BA assessment and afterwards I joined BS masterclass as wanted to do something with my energy. I always get excited at the quarterly, just to be there makes me want to work out. And of course these release are special to me, since I joined the filming that time. Can't wait till Friday!
In the evening I went to Amsterdam with friends to have dinner and a drink. Unfortunately my last train left 0.42 already from Amsterdam, so It wasn't possible to go out all night. But we had fun anyways and dinner was good.
Sunday morning I woke up early to go to Roermond, where they have a big designer's outlet. Yesss shopping. I went to pick up Claudia (another one of 3C) in Eindhoven and then we drove to Roermond. First thing ; Nike store. We were both looking for new shox, and we found them. The best of that, it was cheap!!! We both bought 2 pairs, don't they look nice? :-)
In the evening I went to Amsterdam with friends to have dinner and a drink. Unfortunately my last train left 0.42 already from Amsterdam, so It wasn't possible to go out all night. But we had fun anyways and dinner was good.
Sunday morning I woke up early to go to Roermond, where they have a big designer's outlet. Yesss shopping. I went to pick up Claudia (another one of 3C) in Eindhoven and then we drove to Roermond. First thing ; Nike store. We were both looking for new shox, and we found them. The best of that, it was cheap!!! We both bought 2 pairs, don't they look nice? :-)
We bought some other things and than went home to eat. Watched the drunk carnaval people in Uden. Then I messed up with driving home from Uden, and got lost a little, but finally managed to get back to Hoofddorp without too many more delays/mistakes. I know blonds shouldn't be driving, but I'm not a natural :-)
Tonight BA and BP !!! Can't wait to try out my new shoes. Which ones shall I wear... white/purple or silver/white... mmmm
15 February 2007
It's up to you
It is easy to be miserable. It is just as easy to be happy.
Being miserable will nourish and support your ego. Being happy will bring peace and fulfillment to your spirit.
Being miserable can be very dramatic, complicated and sophisticated. It can make you appear quite impressive to other people.
Being happy, on the other hand, is an expression of simplicity and freedom and joy. Chances are, others could be suspicious or resentful.
Once you have chosen to be miserable, it will require a great deal of energy and effort to maintain that state of misery. By contrast, when you choose happiness, that happiness actually brings additional energy and positive passion to your life.
The choice between happiness and misery is one you make in each moment, over and over again, day after day. Whether you're happy or whether you're miserable is completely up to you. R. Martson
Being miserable will nourish and support your ego. Being happy will bring peace and fulfillment to your spirit.
Being miserable can be very dramatic, complicated and sophisticated. It can make you appear quite impressive to other people.
Being happy, on the other hand, is an expression of simplicity and freedom and joy. Chances are, others could be suspicious or resentful.
Once you have chosen to be miserable, it will require a great deal of energy and effort to maintain that state of misery. By contrast, when you choose happiness, that happiness actually brings additional energy and positive passion to your life.
The choice between happiness and misery is one you make in each moment, over and over again, day after day. Whether you're happy or whether you're miserable is completely up to you. R. Martson
First BB class
This morning I taught my very first full BB class. I was quite nervous, as BB is such a different program and the moves are fairly new to me. But all went well, (even though I say so myself). I knew I had good knowledge of the choreo, so that's about half the class. But since BB is new to me, I find coaching the hard part. With BP, BA & BC it's all natural, but this ... wow... I really got to think. I was glad people came up to me after class, telling me that they learned new things and said they'd love me to come back. Good thing, it's all calm and you have the time for everything. I really love it, even though I still think it's hard to shut up :-), especially after teaching a BA class right in front of that .... Which was also special this morning, as normally it's a freestyle High shape class. But I do not teach freestyle classes, so for this morning they turned the class into BA, as there was no freestyle instructor available. The class did very well, even though only 1 person had done BA before. They were exhausted, even though I did way more options than usual since they aren't used to BA. Best thing was they had a good time, and that's one of they reasons why I'm teaching.
This evening I wasn't able to teach my own classes, as I had to work at the airport. Next week all will be normal again. Teaching all my own classes on Monday and Thursday. Yesssss
Can't wait for BA Monday again, it's so much fun and the class is always so excited, I love it!
This evening I wasn't able to teach my own classes, as I had to work at the airport. Next week all will be normal again. Teaching all my own classes on Monday and Thursday. Yesssss
Can't wait for BA Monday again, it's so much fun and the class is always so excited, I love it!
14 February 2007
13 February 2007
It's been a while .....
I'm back again!!! I know it has been a while, but I have been quite busy. What have I done? Well, I had a week off of work. I wasn't quite sure what to do. First I wanted to go on holiday for a week, but then I decided it was better not to do that, as I'm still thinking of going to NZ at the end of march. Then I finally made up my mind. In October I already bought a new parquet floor for my house, but it was just waiting ever since to be put on the floor in my house. Well, since the weather was very bad and my that was so very very nice to help me out, we have been doing this for the last couple of days (week). And I'm soooooo very happy with it. It was quite a job to do, but I think Bob the builder would be proud of me. Everything is done now. All the carpet in the 2 bedrooms is gone, and now I got a nice wooden floor thru my whole apartment. I have been throwing away a lot of stuff, and I'm going to empty more closets.... Wow, what a person can safe thru the years.. all junk. Still I find it hard to throw away stuff, but I did pretty good. I will never throw away my swimming memories. We used to give team members little gifts for good luck right before a competition, and I still got all of that. And of course all my medals.... the older you get, the more you appreciate it I think.
But a well, to get back to the house, I just need to do some cleaning, but most of it is done now. I stayed at my parents house for 4 days, and last night was the first in my own house again. It was good to be back, even though I love my mom and dad, I'm glad I back to my own place again. This morning a bought a new TV table, and I have put the old one (which was huge) in my spare room. I'll try to upload some pictures later this week, when it 's all really finished.
In the mean time I had one evening of of teaching my classes (last Thursday), but the Monday's I have been doing my BA and BP classes as normal. I was exhausted. I'm not used to do physical work all day, but now I did and after that teaching BA... denggg... I was dead! But still had to BP after that.
Which brings me to a little challenge we have amongst a couple of BP instructors here. My friend Claudia who teaches at Achmea was challenged by a guy from Fitness First, to do the shoulder track with 7,5 kg each side. Then she challenged me to do the same thing, so for the last 2 weeks I have been doing that. It's getting better now. I even have a couple of guys joining me in raising the weights as well. Good job guys!
This Thursday I won;t be teaching my class either, 'cause I have a late shift. I will be teaching in the morning BA and BB. It'll be my first BB class all by myself..... I already start to get nervous.
Oohhh and wow.... my friend Claudia already saw the choreography notes for BP 61 (we have a quarterly's next weekend and the weekend after that), and she said my picture was in there!!
First I didn't believe here, but then she took a picture with here phone and sent it to me. Pretty cool isn't it??
Talk to you later.
But a well, to get back to the house, I just need to do some cleaning, but most of it is done now. I stayed at my parents house for 4 days, and last night was the first in my own house again. It was good to be back, even though I love my mom and dad, I'm glad I back to my own place again. This morning a bought a new TV table, and I have put the old one (which was huge) in my spare room. I'll try to upload some pictures later this week, when it 's all really finished.
In the mean time I had one evening of of teaching my classes (last Thursday), but the Monday's I have been doing my BA and BP classes as normal. I was exhausted. I'm not used to do physical work all day, but now I did and after that teaching BA... denggg... I was dead! But still had to BP after that.
Which brings me to a little challenge we have amongst a couple of BP instructors here. My friend Claudia who teaches at Achmea was challenged by a guy from Fitness First, to do the shoulder track with 7,5 kg each side. Then she challenged me to do the same thing, so for the last 2 weeks I have been doing that. It's getting better now. I even have a couple of guys joining me in raising the weights as well. Good job guys!
This Thursday I won;t be teaching my class either, 'cause I have a late shift. I will be teaching in the morning BA and BB. It'll be my first BB class all by myself..... I already start to get nervous.
Oohhh and wow.... my friend Claudia already saw the choreography notes for BP 61 (we have a quarterly's next weekend and the weekend after that), and she said my picture was in there!!First I didn't believe here, but then she took a picture with here phone and sent it to me. Pretty cool isn't it??
Talk to you later.
01 February 2007
24 January 2007
Some pictures....
Saturday after work I went to the beach with my dad, and here are some pictures I took. The sea was still pretty rough, even though you can't really see it on the pictures. Usually the beach is pretty big, even with high tide, but now there was only a small part to walk, with lots of dirt from the sea.
22 January 2007
Stormy days
Wow, we had quite a couple of weird days. Last Thursday it started. Heavy winds turned into storm later. Windswept of over 130km/hr came from south west. At the airport we all had to work xtra long shifts as we had a lot of flight cancellations. When I drove home it rained really bad as well. When I got home, the sun was shining and I could see bright blue skies (still hard winds, but it didn't look like that). Then I went to the gym to teach and during the relaxation of BB, my colleague thought the mic was making weird noises, but it actually was the building making scary sounds. I could see the lights outside going from left to right. It was quite scary. I heard members say that trees fall down etc. Around their neighborhood. Luckily I had no damage around my house, even though I live on the highest floor of the apartment building. The next day I had to work again. I already heard the noise when I was walking thru the arrivals hall, but when I walked up the stairs to go to the departure hall (where the ticketoffice is located), I could hardly get to the desk. People everywhere. I saw on tv the day b4 how many trainpassengers got stranded at the trainstations as no trains where going, well Schiphol airport looked a sort of the same. We all worked very hard to get the people to their destinations as soon as we could. Sometimes it was difficult, but most people could understand the situation. Some people were even glad they got stranded on Thursday, because they had such a bad experience landing that day, that they didn't want to continue at all at that time. Because the flightschedule was so messed up, with crew making to many hours, flights stranded at other European cities it took the whole weekend to get back to normal. So I was quite happy I had the day off of work today. So far the temperatures have been warm for the time of the year, but for the coming days they predict temperatures below 0 Celsius... :-( I do not like cold weather. Let's keep our fingers crossed this won't go to extremes. I think it's scary that the whole world has to do with strange weather features. My cousin lives in Bahrain. At Christmas time it's supposed to be 20-25 Celsius over there. This time they it was around 8 Celsius. In Moscow, and a lot of other places in Russia it's supposed to be freezing cold, and there it's way above 0 Celsius as well. In the US, there's extreme snow fall. I wonder where we'll all be going.
17 January 2007
16 January 2007
Last couple of days....
Thursday 11 January we had the quarterly club launch. The theme was (2)007. It was great fun and it was busier than I expected. Below you'll see a couple of pictures.
BC: Aubrey and I as James Bond, as we thought BC as we couldn't place ourselves being Sexy Bond girls doing BC. We saw some new faces in BC, so I hope to see the people in the class from now on.
With BP we had Mirelle joining us as James Bond, while Aubrey and I transferred to Bond Girls. Pretty hard doing pump in an evening dress, but luckily the fabric was stretch :-)
And offcourse BA. Bogdan and I were just with the 2 of us. so it was Mr. Bond with a Bond girl. Not in an evening dress, as there would have been no way of doing kicks and plyo's in a long dress, so see the result.
I was also able to join Mirelle and Bogdan for the BB launch. I wasn't very busy as it started at 22.00 and a lot of people already left. But the people who were there enjoyed it and I was glad I had a good practice for my final training day. BJ was quite a hit, and Mirelle and Bogdan had a good performance on that one. It was he very first time we had BJ in the club. So from now on it's on the schedule.
Friday I had an early shift and it was quite a hassle to get myself out of bed at 4.45, as I was home late after the launch. Only had about 4 hrs sleep :-( After work I went to the gym with Bogdan to practice BB. We did that for about an hour and a half. Then I went to see my parents. In the evening I went to Utrecht. We had a little reunion with a part of National team. We ended up with only 8 people, but still had a good time. 5 swimmers, 2 coaches and a teammanager. It was fun to see them again and hear what they have been doing lately. We have decided we should do this more often. We went to a small restaurant and had tapa's. Ofcourse I was home too late again, but at least I could stay in bed till 8. Saturdaymorning I went to Roosendaal for the last day of module training. The training are always split over 2 weekends. When it's a 3 day training, it's one full weekend and another separate day the weekend after. When it's only a 2 day training like BA, it's 2 weekends of 1 day. This way you get the opportunity to practice during the week. Ofcourse they expect something good with the final presentation on the last day. Use the circle of instruction, and CRC etc. If you pass (and everyone did for this BB module), you get 3 months to send in your DVD/video for the International Certificate.
On the way home a got stuck in a traffic jam, as a car caught on fire somewhere on the highway. I stood still for amost an hour and wasn't very amused. I was pretty tired and also hungry.
Sunday I decided to sleep in, but I'm not very good at that, so I was awake at nine. Did some work for LM (assessments), and then watched European Championships Speed skating Allround. I just love to watch speed skating. After that I had to go to work. It wasn't busy at all, but it was a nice and fun evening talking to colleagues etc. We had a few weird passengers at the desk. One of 'm kept coming to desk, he was saying the whole time: I am god and I need to go to America. It was way passed nine, so no plane going anymore. Actually it was a kind of sad, as there was no way we could come thru to him. Finally he was taken away by airport security.
Well that's it for now.
BC: Aubrey and I as James Bond, as we thought BC as we couldn't place ourselves being Sexy Bond girls doing BC. We saw some new faces in BC, so I hope to see the people in the class from now on.
With BP we had Mirelle joining us as James Bond, while Aubrey and I transferred to Bond Girls. Pretty hard doing pump in an evening dress, but luckily the fabric was stretch :-)
And offcourse BA. Bogdan and I were just with the 2 of us. so it was Mr. Bond with a Bond girl. Not in an evening dress, as there would have been no way of doing kicks and plyo's in a long dress, so see the result.I was also able to join Mirelle and Bogdan for the BB launch. I wasn't very busy as it started at 22.00 and a lot of people already left. But the people who were there enjoyed it and I was glad I had a good practice for my final training day. BJ was quite a hit, and Mirelle and Bogdan had a good performance on that one. It was he very first time we had BJ in the club. So from now on it's on the schedule.
Friday I had an early shift and it was quite a hassle to get myself out of bed at 4.45, as I was home late after the launch. Only had about 4 hrs sleep :-( After work I went to the gym with Bogdan to practice BB. We did that for about an hour and a half. Then I went to see my parents. In the evening I went to Utrecht. We had a little reunion with a part of National team. We ended up with only 8 people, but still had a good time. 5 swimmers, 2 coaches and a teammanager. It was fun to see them again and hear what they have been doing lately. We have decided we should do this more often. We went to a small restaurant and had tapa's. Ofcourse I was home too late again, but at least I could stay in bed till 8. Saturdaymorning I went to Roosendaal for the last day of module training. The training are always split over 2 weekends. When it's a 3 day training, it's one full weekend and another separate day the weekend after. When it's only a 2 day training like BA, it's 2 weekends of 1 day. This way you get the opportunity to practice during the week. Ofcourse they expect something good with the final presentation on the last day. Use the circle of instruction, and CRC etc. If you pass (and everyone did for this BB module), you get 3 months to send in your DVD/video for the International Certificate.
On the way home a got stuck in a traffic jam, as a car caught on fire somewhere on the highway. I stood still for amost an hour and wasn't very amused. I was pretty tired and also hungry.
Sunday I decided to sleep in, but I'm not very good at that, so I was awake at nine. Did some work for LM (assessments), and then watched European Championships Speed skating Allround. I just love to watch speed skating. After that I had to go to work. It wasn't busy at all, but it was a nice and fun evening talking to colleagues etc. We had a few weird passengers at the desk. One of 'm kept coming to desk, he was saying the whole time: I am god and I need to go to America. It was way passed nine, so no plane going anymore. Actually it was a kind of sad, as there was no way we could come thru to him. Finally he was taken away by airport security.
Well that's it for now.
11 January 2007
Learn to ...
Learn to love the challenges, and you will grow stronger.
Learn to love putting forth effort, and you'll find yourself becoming more capable and effective.
Learn to love making a positive contribution, and your life will grow richer.
Learn to love being around people who are different than you, and you'll gain many valuable new perspectives.
Learn to love discovering what you do not know, and your knowledge will greatly expand.
Learn to love truly listening, and your wisdom will increase.
Learn to love giving, and your life will be blessed.
Learn to love being thankful, and you'll know real abundance.
Learn to love the ordinary moments, and you'll find each day filled with warm golden treasures.
Learn to love simply being, and you'll rise to a whole new level of awareness.
Learn to love something about each day, and your days will bring rich fulfillment.
Learn to love, and you'll know how to live. (R.Marston)
Learn to love putting forth effort, and you'll find yourself becoming more capable and effective.
Learn to love making a positive contribution, and your life will grow richer.
Learn to love being around people who are different than you, and you'll gain many valuable new perspectives.
Learn to love discovering what you do not know, and your knowledge will greatly expand.
Learn to love truly listening, and your wisdom will increase.
Learn to love giving, and your life will be blessed.
Learn to love being thankful, and you'll know real abundance.
Learn to love the ordinary moments, and you'll find each day filled with warm golden treasures.
Learn to love simply being, and you'll rise to a whole new level of awareness.
Learn to love something about each day, and your days will bring rich fulfillment.
Learn to love, and you'll know how to live. (R.Marston)
08 January 2007
Bodybalance Module Training
Last weekend I had the first 2 days of the BODYBALANCE module training. It was great. Really different from the 3 other programs I have done so far, but I enjoyed it a lot. I really had to switch the button. I'm quite an active person, or maybe I should say very active :-). Always busy, always moving and, yes for the people who know me well, always talking. Can you imagine how hard it was to find this switch? But it's cool. I know BB is going to help me to improve as an instructor/coach, also in the other programs, and it'll help me to keep my body fit and flexible.
One of the things I learned last weekend and which I like a lot is SBS (set-up, breath, silence). I find it difficult to use this, especially the last part :-), since I'm so much used to 'bring it home' and motivation. It's all quite a challenge. Last weekend I had to present track 5, hip openers. I can tell you, you do not want to feel what I felt on sunday morning. I was quit surprised I had so many muscles around my butt and hips, which I wasn't aware of. I could feel my butt with every move I made. I had been practicing this track the whole evening to get this swan pose and half lotus well. Warrior's, down dog's etc I could do pretty good and also deep, but the swan pose and half lotus I find very hard. Practice, practice, practice that's what I'll do. Next week I will have to do track 1, Tai chi Warm up. I really like this track, and I hope I will be able to do well, as it'll be my examination track for the temporarily certificate. Keep your fingers crossed for me.
One of the things I learned last weekend and which I like a lot is SBS (set-up, breath, silence). I find it difficult to use this, especially the last part :-), since I'm so much used to 'bring it home' and motivation. It's all quite a challenge. Last weekend I had to present track 5, hip openers. I can tell you, you do not want to feel what I felt on sunday morning. I was quit surprised I had so many muscles around my butt and hips, which I wasn't aware of. I could feel my butt with every move I made. I had been practicing this track the whole evening to get this swan pose and half lotus well. Warrior's, down dog's etc I could do pretty good and also deep, but the swan pose and half lotus I find very hard. Practice, practice, practice that's what I'll do. Next week I will have to do track 1, Tai chi Warm up. I really like this track, and I hope I will be able to do well, as it'll be my examination track for the temporarily certificate. Keep your fingers crossed for me.
01 January 2007
2007
To start with:
HAPPY NEW YEAR to all of you! I hope it'll be a beautiful year for you in which all your dreams may come true.
What have I been up to the last days of 2006.
First day of Christmas: Early shift at work, then I went to my parents house as it was my dad's birthday as well. Lot's of family and friends and a couple of 'm stayed for dinner. We had a nice time and my mom made a great 5 course dinner :-)
Second day of Christmas (yes, in Holland we actually have 2 holidays): Slept in for a bit, did some work for LM, went to Grandma's birthday. Unfortunately she's in the hospital, but we still had a small birthday party over there. She's doing pretty good at the moment. At the end of the afternoon I went to a friend and we had a relaxing evening with an easy dinner and we watched 2 movies. Just girls, so girl movies ofcourse :-) The other days were just working, teaching classes and I spent time with friends.
New Years Eve I went to my cousin in Amsterdam. No big party's, just fun at home. Talked, laughed listened to the top 2000 on the radio. We were we 8 and had a great time. At 0.00 lots of fireworks in the street. Awesome to watch, but I'm always a bit scared that something will happen. We had lots of champagne and ofcourse other things to drink, so I was glad I could stay the night and did not have to drive back home. We went to bed around 4. This morning we had breakfast all together, but maybe I should call it a brunch :-) In the afternoon we went out for a short walk and I got home a little while ago.
2Morrow normal life will start again! I will put away my Christmas stuff and start preparing for my BB training this coming weekend. Friday I will give a training for healthcity instructors together with a colleague. My job will be mostly explaining about stuff I learned from the AIM module. Tonight I'm not going to do anything. I will make myself something to eat, take a shower and relax. It'll start now :-)
HAPPY NEW YEAR to all of you! I hope it'll be a beautiful year for you in which all your dreams may come true.
What have I been up to the last days of 2006.
First day of Christmas: Early shift at work, then I went to my parents house as it was my dad's birthday as well. Lot's of family and friends and a couple of 'm stayed for dinner. We had a nice time and my mom made a great 5 course dinner :-)
Second day of Christmas (yes, in Holland we actually have 2 holidays): Slept in for a bit, did some work for LM, went to Grandma's birthday. Unfortunately she's in the hospital, but we still had a small birthday party over there. She's doing pretty good at the moment. At the end of the afternoon I went to a friend and we had a relaxing evening with an easy dinner and we watched 2 movies. Just girls, so girl movies ofcourse :-) The other days were just working, teaching classes and I spent time with friends.
New Years Eve I went to my cousin in Amsterdam. No big party's, just fun at home. Talked, laughed listened to the top 2000 on the radio. We were we 8 and had a great time. At 0.00 lots of fireworks in the street. Awesome to watch, but I'm always a bit scared that something will happen. We had lots of champagne and ofcourse other things to drink, so I was glad I could stay the night and did not have to drive back home. We went to bed around 4. This morning we had breakfast all together, but maybe I should call it a brunch :-) In the afternoon we went out for a short walk and I got home a little while ago.
2Morrow normal life will start again! I will put away my Christmas stuff and start preparing for my BB training this coming weekend. Friday I will give a training for healthcity instructors together with a colleague. My job will be mostly explaining about stuff I learned from the AIM module. Tonight I'm not going to do anything. I will make myself something to eat, take a shower and relax. It'll start now :-)
23 December 2006
Merry X-mas !!!
Merry ChristmasVrolijk Kerstfeest
Feliz Navidad
Frohe Weihnachten
Joyeux Noël
Boas Festas
21 December 2006
Santa in Class
I had quite a busy day at work today and I got home late from the Airport. Had to rush to get my stuff, packed my bag got changed and hopped on my bike to go to the gym. When I got there I noticed I just brought my Ipod, but did not bring the connections to get it to the stereo... shoot! Luckily I always bring my CD's so I was able to mix tracks. I had just started the warm up .. and then ... wow... did I get a surprise or what! Santa just walked into my class and he joined us! He sort of looked like he could use some exercise :-). He was a bit chubby hahaha..... He first started checking if everyone was trying their best and then he grabbed his barbell and started doing the squat track with us. He did quite a good job, but I noticed Santa usually tries harder in my class. I think he had put the weight around his waist instead of on his barbell! It was funny element in class today which my collegue Bogdan added by dressing up in his blown up plastic Santa costume. Too bad I didn't bring my camera :-(
Got some pictures from last years X-mas workout though:
Got some pictures from last years X-mas workout though:
19 December 2006
Pump, Pump and some more Pump
Yesterday evening I taught my own BP class, this morning I was the instructor had an emergency at home so I did this morning's BP class as well. And tonight .... AGAIN! I wouldn't advise anyone to do so many BP classes so close in a row, but sometimes that's just the way to go for an instructor. Yesterday it was just my regular monday evening. Always fun and pleasure. Also BA and BC. BA we had a special one: X-mas Attack... just to do some pre-work for the christmas dinner next week :-) Me and my collegue dressed up as Santa's. We also did a few tracks of BA55. We have the launch 11 januari, but just as a surprise for our attackers we did a few tracks! We also did some promoting of BJ. Whaaaa, imagine me ....doing BJ, HA. But after a long (very long) practise I managed to shadow 2 BJ tracks and even had it look a little like BJ. I think the people liked it, so that's a good start for the BJ. So far we didn't have BJ on the schedule, so starting 15 jan 07 (when the new schedule starts) we will have BJ as well.
Tonight, I will be joining a friend of mine at Achmea, to do BA & BP launch classes. Looking forward to it. I'll be leaving soon, cause it's quite a drive and don't want to get stuck in the traffic.
On my way I also have to stop at the uniform department from KLM, to finally get my new skirts. Since I started working at the airport I lost some weight and also some centimetres around the hips :-)))))))
Tonight, I will be joining a friend of mine at Achmea, to do BA & BP launch classes. Looking forward to it. I'll be leaving soon, cause it's quite a drive and don't want to get stuck in the traffic.
On my way I also have to stop at the uniform department from KLM, to finally get my new skirts. Since I started working at the airport I lost some weight and also some centimetres around the hips :-)))))))
12 December 2006
Choices you make
Every dream is as real as you choose to make it.
You're as young or as old as you think yourself to be.
Those things you sincerely expect will find their way to you.
Those things you most fondly imagine will relentlessly pull you forward.
The love you give away will always be with you.
Everything for which you are sincerely grateful will grow stronger and more abundant.
Your intentions will be fulfilled when you give them true purpose.
Your goals will be reached when they come from your heart.
This day will bring fulfillment when you choose to allow it.
This life will be rich when you give your best to it.
What do you choose in the innermost depth of your being?
That is what life will surely become.
You're as young or as old as you think yourself to be.
Those things you sincerely expect will find their way to you.
Those things you most fondly imagine will relentlessly pull you forward.
The love you give away will always be with you.
Everything for which you are sincerely grateful will grow stronger and more abundant.
Your intentions will be fulfilled when you give them true purpose.
Your goals will be reached when they come from your heart.
This day will bring fulfillment when you choose to allow it.
This life will be rich when you give your best to it.
What do you choose in the innermost depth of your being?
That is what life will surely become.
08 December 2006
Set a Goal
A lot of people set goals in life. These could be short term goals but also long time goals. In teaching most instructors also set goals. In teaching you can also have short term and long term goals, but there are more.
There is a self-focus goal. It's personal and it's a valid goal, but within teaching your class it's not the most important goal, as this only concerns you and in teaching the class, an instructor should not put his/herself in first place.
Next to this, there is a group-focus goal. This goal relates to the participants in your class. Something like: I'd like my participants to have fun in this class, or I'd like my participants to feel involved in this class. This way the class won't be like one-way traffic, but there will be communication between you and the people in your class. People will notice a difference between the moment you just teach a class or when you are teaching with a strong/positive goal. They will feel you are there for them.You use words to communicate with people, but it's the energy and passion behind it which counts and actually delivers the message.
And then of course there are the program-focus goals. Each of the LM programs has it's own goal and it's own unique selling points. It's the focus and feel of the program. We as instructors should be able to transfer thesecharacteristics of each program to our participants. Strength & power in BODYPUMP and high energy & athletic moves in BODYATTACK.
Within the programs we also have our track-focus goals. These can be combined very well with the group focus goals. For example: In BA track 1 I'd like my participants to warm up and enjoy being able to work out together. In BA track 3, to have fun, work hard and push their fitness levels in the superman. Good thing is that LM actually helps us instructors to set these track goals. So for instructors, who find it hard to set these goals, listen well to the DVD and read the choreo. It helps you, and that way you will be able to help your members to have an even greater experience than they already have in your class.
There is a self-focus goal. It's personal and it's a valid goal, but within teaching your class it's not the most important goal, as this only concerns you and in teaching the class, an instructor should not put his/herself in first place.
Next to this, there is a group-focus goal. This goal relates to the participants in your class. Something like: I'd like my participants to have fun in this class, or I'd like my participants to feel involved in this class. This way the class won't be like one-way traffic, but there will be communication between you and the people in your class. People will notice a difference between the moment you just teach a class or when you are teaching with a strong/positive goal. They will feel you are there for them.You use words to communicate with people, but it's the energy and passion behind it which counts and actually delivers the message.
And then of course there are the program-focus goals. Each of the LM programs has it's own goal and it's own unique selling points. It's the focus and feel of the program. We as instructors should be able to transfer thesecharacteristics of each program to our participants. Strength & power in BODYPUMP and high energy & athletic moves in BODYATTACK.
Within the programs we also have our track-focus goals. These can be combined very well with the group focus goals. For example: In BA track 1 I'd like my participants to warm up and enjoy being able to work out together. In BA track 3, to have fun, work hard and push their fitness levels in the superman. Good thing is that LM actually helps us instructors to set these track goals. So for instructors, who find it hard to set these goals, listen well to the DVD and read the choreo. It helps you, and that way you will be able to help your members to have an even greater experience than they already have in your class.
02 December 2006
Some more Sinterklaas....
I found this on an english website about our "Sinterklaas". It might explain some more about our Dutch tradition....
St. Nicolaas, more fondly known as "Sinterklaas" arrives each year in the Netherlands around mid November. The saint, who travels from Spain by steamboat, is accompanied by his white horse and his knight, Black Peter (Zwarte Piet), as well as several "help" Peters. Legend goes that Sinterklaas and Zwarte Piet travel over the roofs of the Dutch houses at night. The Dutch children put their shoes (used to be wooden shoes) in front of the fire place. They sing songs and provide a carrot or hay for the horse. At night Zwarte Piet puts gifts and candy in it. On the evening of December 5th, Dutch families celebrate Sinterklaas' birthday (the name day of St. Nicolas is December 6th). For the smallest children, who still believe, a loud knock on the door signifies the arrival of Sinterklaas. Simultaneously, candy is thrown from upstairs by Zwarte Piet. When the door is opened, a large bag full of gifts waits on the front step.
Oh, I can remember the excitement very well!
For the older kids and adults, the tradition takes on a different turn. One way to celebrate the evening is as follows: Each gift is concealed in a "surprise" (pronounced the French way). A surprise is a gag. For example, a small present is hidden in a surprise. You make something from paper or wood or old boxes which really has to do with that person. For example I used to be a swimmer and some one made me a swimmingpool from paper and box with little puppets in there doing Synchro. Once I also got a plastic tub, with lines on the bottom and filled with water. My present was on the bottom and I had to 'dive' for it. It was really made as swimmingpool. The surprise does not have to be big, it can just touch on a weakness or vice of the receiver. The surprise is accompanied by a teasing poem. Around Sinterklaas, even the most prozaic Dutch become accomplished poets! It's a lot of fun.
Another way to celebrate the tradition is a special game played with a big dice. This is the way I spent the evening for the last couple of years. Actually we allready did it yesterday, as we all had different things to do 5 dec. This is the way it goes. You each buy 4 small nice gifts and take 1 gift f
rom just anything you want to get rid of. Something old or ugly out of your house, or something really weird or funny. You wrap all presents. I for example took some old coffee mugs which I never use and which are very ugly (that's why I never use 'm). All presents are put together all you start throwing the dice. Every time you throw 6, you may pick a gift and unwrap it. You might pick something nice, but you may also have bad luck and pick 1 of the 'trash' gifts. This could take quite some time, but it's fun already. When all presents are unwrapped, the game actually starts. All number but the 6 on the dice mean something:
1: You may pick any gift from some else
2: pick 2 names out of the bowl with names: the 1st name has to give a present to the 2nd name
3: pick a gift from someone and give it to another person
4: everyone has to give 1 gift to the person on his/hers left hand side
5: pick an instruction from the bowl with instructions
6: nothing
The clock is set when the game starts (for about an hour), when the time is over you're stuck with the presents you've got at that time. It's so much fun, when you finally think you have the gift you really like, you have to switch seats for example. In the instruction bowl there can be instructions like that, or like give all your presents to your fellow players and you may pick 3 gifts from anyone. Or switch seat with the person on your right side. Or each person has to put a gift in the middle and the first person who throws 6 gets all the gifts. You usually end up with a lot of 'trash' gifts at that time.
We have been doing this game for a few times now. The first time we played it
someone brought in a very ugly musical thing. It's a glass horse on a silver bottom and it plays the song it's a small world after all. And ofcourse this year it was there again. Nobody wantsit so tries to get rid of it all the time. We finally ended up with everyone having something they really liked so that was good. It was a fun evening, we were all acting like little kids hoping to get our favourite present.
St. Nicolaas, more fondly known as "Sinterklaas" arrives each year in the Netherlands around mid November. The saint, who travels from Spain by steamboat, is accompanied by his white horse and his knight, Black Peter (Zwarte Piet), as well as several "help" Peters. Legend goes that Sinterklaas and Zwarte Piet travel over the roofs of the Dutch houses at night. The Dutch children put their shoes (used to be wooden shoes) in front of the fire place. They sing songs and provide a carrot or hay for the horse. At night Zwarte Piet puts gifts and candy in it. On the evening of December 5th, Dutch families celebrate Sinterklaas' birthday (the name day of St. Nicolas is December 6th). For the smallest children, who still believe, a loud knock on the door signifies the arrival of Sinterklaas. Simultaneously, candy is thrown from upstairs by Zwarte Piet. When the door is opened, a large bag full of gifts waits on the front step.
Oh, I can remember the excitement very well!For the older kids and adults, the tradition takes on a different turn. One way to celebrate the evening is as follows: Each gift is concealed in a "surprise" (pronounced the French way). A surprise is a gag. For example, a small present is hidden in a surprise. You make something from paper or wood or old boxes which really has to do with that person. For example I used to be a swimmer and some one made me a swimmingpool from paper and box with little puppets in there doing Synchro. Once I also got a plastic tub, with lines on the bottom and filled with water. My present was on the bottom and I had to 'dive' for it. It was really made as swimmingpool. The surprise does not have to be big, it can just touch on a weakness or vice of the receiver. The surprise is accompanied by a teasing poem. Around Sinterklaas, even the most prozaic Dutch become accomplished poets! It's a lot of fun.
Another way to celebrate the tradition is a special game played with a big dice. This is the way I spent the evening for the last couple of years. Actually we allready did it yesterday, as we all had different things to do 5 dec. This is the way it goes. You each buy 4 small nice gifts and take 1 gift f
rom just anything you want to get rid of. Something old or ugly out of your house, or something really weird or funny. You wrap all presents. I for example took some old coffee mugs which I never use and which are very ugly (that's why I never use 'm). All presents are put together all you start throwing the dice. Every time you throw 6, you may pick a gift and unwrap it. You might pick something nice, but you may also have bad luck and pick 1 of the 'trash' gifts. This could take quite some time, but it's fun already. When all presents are unwrapped, the game actually starts. All number but the 6 on the dice mean something:1: You may pick any gift from some else
2: pick 2 names out of the bowl with names: the 1st name has to give a present to the 2nd name
3: pick a gift from someone and give it to another person
4: everyone has to give 1 gift to the person on his/hers left hand side
5: pick an instruction from the bowl with instructions
6: nothing
The clock is set when the game starts (for about an hour), when the time is over you're stuck with the presents you've got at that time. It's so much fun, when you finally think you have the gift you really like, you have to switch seats for example. In the instruction bowl there can be instructions like that, or like give all your presents to your fellow players and you may pick 3 gifts from anyone. Or switch seat with the person on your right side. Or each person has to put a gift in the middle and the first person who throws 6 gets all the gifts. You usually end up with a lot of 'trash' gifts at that time.
We have been doing this game for a few times now. The first time we played it
someone brought in a very ugly musical thing. It's a glass horse on a silver bottom and it plays the song it's a small world after all. And ofcourse this year it was there again. Nobody wantsit so tries to get rid of it all the time. We finally ended up with everyone having something they really liked so that was good. It was a fun evening, we were all acting like little kids hoping to get our favourite present.
01 December 2006
BP Thursday
Yesterday I mixed some pretty old tracks in BP class. I used a couple of tracks of BP43. It had been quite a while since I did these tracks and I think for most people it was a completely new workout. I used the warm up track, Squat track (ready to go), Tricep track (ain't it funny) and the shoulder track (we will survive) all of BP43. I just love pushups :-) so this shoulder track is made for me :-) It starts with pushups and it ends with pushups. Since nobody could remember this track they all had a very nice surprise. The already thought the squat track was pretty hard with lots and lots of singles....... Few people joined me on the toes with all the pushups... good job you guys!
On the 5th december we celebrate "Sinterklaas". You can just about compare it with Santa Claus. 2 Weeks b4 the 5 dec, Sinterklaas comes from Spain with his helpers (Zwarte Piet). Children are allowed to put their shoe in front of the fireplace and the next day they might have gotten a present. Only if they have been nice for the past year ofcourse. All naughty kids have a chance to be taken in the big bag (were Sinterklaas usuaully brings his presents in) back to Spain. The picture you see is last year, when I was one of SInterklaas' helpers, Zwarte Piet. I did that together with my niece at the house of one of my collegues. Zwarte Piet is always a bit naughty and is allowed to do just about everything... haha, we had a great time filling in that role on 5 dec last year. My niece was 12 at that time and for her it was the first time she did it.
Well this story just to tell you, as a few people in yesterday's BP class, just told me Sinterklaas will probably take me back to Spain, together with all the naughty children, since I made yesterday's BP class pretty hard... I told them I wouldn't really mind, as the weather in Spain is probably way better than it is here. At least it will be warmer than it is here in Holland right now :-)
Yesterday evening I also did Bodybalance. I want to take as many BB classes before I get to do BB Module training in January. After BB, my collegue was going to train for his BJ. I'm not a jammer, but I decided to join him. Believe it or not, but I actually had fun. Most moves are way to difficult for me, but I could sort of follow the salsa/latin part. Maybe I'm even going to take a few classes when we launch it it january.
After the gym I had to go to my parents house. My washing machine broke down last week and I heard this afternoon, they cannot repair it anymore. My new one will be delivered saturday. My mom is doing my laundry now for over a week. I'm glad my parents live close to me, as I can't imagine washing all my clothes by hand. I have so much stuff just after one evening of teaching...... Only one more day .....
On the 5th december we celebrate "Sinterklaas". You can just about compare it with Santa Claus. 2 Weeks b4 the 5 dec, Sinterklaas comes from Spain with his helpers (Zwarte Piet). Children are allowed to put their shoe in front of the fireplace and the next day they might have gotten a present. Only if they have been nice for the past year ofcourse. All naughty kids have a chance to be taken in the big bag (were Sinterklaas usuaully brings his presents in) back to Spain. The picture you see is last year, when I was one of SInterklaas' helpers, Zwarte Piet. I did that together with my niece at the house of one of my collegues. Zwarte Piet is always a bit naughty and is allowed to do just about everything... haha, we had a great time filling in that role on 5 dec last year. My niece was 12 at that time and for her it was the first time she did it.Well this story just to tell you, as a few people in yesterday's BP class, just told me Sinterklaas will probably take me back to Spain, together with all the naughty children, since I made yesterday's BP class pretty hard... I told them I wouldn't really mind, as the weather in Spain is probably way better than it is here. At least it will be warmer than it is here in Holland right now :-)
Yesterday evening I also did Bodybalance. I want to take as many BB classes before I get to do BB Module training in January. After BB, my collegue was going to train for his BJ. I'm not a jammer, but I decided to join him. Believe it or not, but I actually had fun. Most moves are way to difficult for me, but I could sort of follow the salsa/latin part. Maybe I'm even going to take a few classes when we launch it it january.
After the gym I had to go to my parents house. My washing machine broke down last week and I heard this afternoon, they cannot repair it anymore. My new one will be delivered saturday. My mom is doing my laundry now for over a week. I'm glad my parents live close to me, as I can't imagine washing all my clothes by hand. I have so much stuff just after one evening of teaching...... Only one more day .....
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