Monday, October 6, 2014

THE JUNGLE GYM

This morning I really didn't want to hit the gym. I needed a good excuse, but couldn't find one, so off I trotted. I made sure to loosen out before I left, and burnt 160 cals. on my treadmill in the basement beforehand. That was a good idea, because otherwise the drill can be body numbing.

When I signed up for fitness, I had no idea that I would also be getting a big dysfunctional family into the bargain. Truth is - I miss them if I don't see them. So that's a good thing!

I have my own secret names for the regulars. There is 'Aunty Ida' from France who curses in French when she gets frustrated. Like today, she was enraged when a sweaty body did not clean the seat after he was finished."Disgusting" she said, touching her crotch."They leave all this liquid behind from Timbuktu!"

Then there is Uncle 'Randy Andy' who has eyes for nothing but boobs and butts - of which there is a good selection to choose from. Little bro 'Harvey Hogger' who hogs a certain machine, and stands possessively around it, like Chichi does with her food bowl.

I have to be extra careful when cleaning my exercise mat, lest I squirt water on 'Delicate Denny'. I did it this morning ...oops! He threw me a nasty look that told me he hated the female race in general. "You wet me" he said with controlled anger in his voice. "Will I do it again? I wanted to tease. But I didn't. He looked like he could do with a bit of fun! Instead, I lied through my teeth "Oh! I'm dreadfully sorry".

'Ants in his pants' Alan is extremely impatient, and focused to win. "Do you mind if I slip in here for a few minutes. I'll be awfully fast" he says, before pushing somebody off their machine. He has his to-do list, and by golly he hits the target!

"That is why I detest the gym" Kevin tut tuts when I tell him tales from the jungle!

Toodlepip for now and happy new week!

Polly P xxx



Saturday, October 4, 2014

IT'S THAT TIME OF YEAR AGAIN!!

Yeps! Today marks the third and final Mercury retrograde phase for 2014. It begins today, and finishes on October 24th. So for the next three weeks - you know the drill by now. I have you well warned - or should have! Here's a reminder:-

Employ due diligence when signing contracts. In fact, it would be better not to sign any agreements until after the 24th October. Be very careful when leaving messages, texting, or emailing, as communications can go astray during this retro phase. Be prepared for travel hitches if flying, or travelling. Bring a small overnight bag!

Back up computers, etc. Check your car, words, deeds, and actions and s l o w  d o w n. Now that the leaves are falling from the trees, and the summer clothes are washed and tidied away for another year, embrace this period with mindfulness, warm delicious cappuccinos by the fireside, a peaceful prayer, and gratitude that you've lived to see another beautiful Autumn.

Mercury Retrograde phases are all about slowing down and travelling within. Because this is the last one of the year, it is a good time to have a meeting with yourself, and check to see how you're doing. Have you reached your goals for the year? Is there much left in the bucket? (list), have you organized with zest your Fall/Winter wardrobe? It saves time, money, and is a ton of fun.

I have stuck like a clam to my 9/11 challenge not to spend a dime this season, and to use what I got. With the money saved, I pledge to donate some to a fantastic local charity started by two friends. It is called 100 women. One hundred local women pledge to pay $100 four times a year to help local charities such as Youth at Risk, homeless folk, young unmarried mothers - the list is endless. We meet four times a year to discuss our charity of choice. Believe me, I'm off the sweets and junk food as well, and blush at the amount of $$ I've wasted...well I did enjoy it at the time!!

In case you haven't guessed, Saturn the 'Taskmaster' of the zodiac hits my natal chart this year for two ridiculous years!! He only comes every 27 years or so, and when he does...he means business!! All of us folk born in 1957 are going to be feeling a kick up the u no where. He arrives on Christmas Eve (aagh!!) I'm preparing my defence strategy and seriously cleaning up my act - in every department! Or else I know...I'll be in BIG trouble!! Getting that second book published, losing those extra pounds, doing more good for society. He makes you ask yourself "What have you been doing with your life?"

My challenge to myself was 'Self-discipline' as I knew I was capable of over-stepping the mark. My cup was indeed full, and the image of it spilling over the brim translated into the messy mountain of clothes in my basement, some going back three decades!! I'm sentimentally attached to clothes - unfortunately. The outfit I wore to my daughters' christenings, birthdays, graduation, holy communion, etc. you get the picture?? Even have stuff from my honeymoon. Ridiculous.

I've had more fun this season putting a Fall/Winter wardrobe together, and maybe I may get some photos together to show you - if I can find a willing photographer!!

Last, but not least - a funny Mercury Retrograde experience I had yesterday (it can start early). Sometimes the effects are felt more intensely at the beginning. This is SO typical of what happens during the MR phase. I left my car in to have the brake pads checked. I had discussed it at length with the serviceman, and how I had them done only in March, etc. I arrived back some hours later to find he had checked the light bulbs in the car - and not the brakes!! Now I have to go back again next week and have another day without the car! They also had the wrong address on the invoice...communications breakdown if ever!!

Toodlepip for now and safe travels!

Polly P xxx