Bar Method Online Review

I feel like I need to comment on the COVID-19 thing, but I am seriously tired of talking about it. It has consumed our lives and attention. Luckily, we both still have jobs, we are getting paid, we have food in our house, etc.. but man.. obviously this sucks. I have been dealing with the stress by exercising more, playing piano, and spending way too much time on social media.

I am now three months into my Bar Method exercise routine, and I am seriously loving my results. My weight loss has somewhat stalled in the past few weeks as I've been not as strict on limiting my calories. However, here are my pictures and stats below:

Day 1 vs Day 91

3 Month Stats:

Weight: 5.6 pounds lost

Inches: 10.4 inches lost

Body fat: 1.6% lost

Here is also a comparison between 1 month of Bar Method and 3 months of Bar Method:

The other day, someone actually complimented me on how narrow my legs looked, and I was so happy that some of the changes I've had are actually noticeable. My biggest advice for someone who wants to see actual changes in their body with this workout style, you need to do a few things:

• Do a barre class at least 3-5 times per week
• Be consistent--don't keep changing the types of workout you do. Commit to at least 1 month (but really, after looking at these results--at least 3 months).
• Try the advanced classes for an even greater challenge.
• If you're looking to lose weight, you definitely need to be careful with how you eat. Most of my weight loss is related to limiting calories.

If you are looking into a new, low-impact workout with significant results in your upper and lower body, definitely check out Bar Method. They have studios all over the country (but none less than an hour away from me), and they have a great online video library (only $20/month).

MIA on Facebook

I don't know how many people have actually noticed, but I've taken a step back from my Facebook account. I've actually deactivated my account twice over the past couple of months. It has nothing to do with social media itself, as I've kept my Instagram account. I just have been so SICK of the negativity on the Internet. Yes, politics was a big part of my decision to stop scrolling on Facebook so much. But really, this quote from Stephen King's novel exactly illustrates how I feel about the hatred spewed online and in the world today.

So, I deleted Facebook on my phone, and I've noticed a huge change in my life. I'm no longer obsessively checking my phone for notifications and updates. I'm spending more quality time with my family. At night, Graham and I talk about us, our lives, and current events. It has been quite the time saver. I still log on occasionally, but only on the computer, or via browser on my phone. It makes it like 100 times more difficult to comment or get involved in people's online arguments. I unfortunately still NEED Facebook for updates about activities and other local things.

Yes, I do miss seeing all of my friends and old acquaintances' accomplishments, family pictures, and big life announcements. I'm no longer wishing people happy birthday, or watching friends' families grow. But, I am watching my own family grow and enriching my marriage. This is not a holier than thou kind of thing. This is just an explanation behind my relative absence. And like I said, I still keep up on Instagram, so if you haven't followed me on there yet, you can do that if you still want to keep in touch.

I keep my Instagram feed full of food, makeup, and family/friends. If you think I'm doing this to keep my head in the sand, don't worry.. I can read the news and keep up with social events just like anyone else. I can just form my own opinion without being subjected to everyone's biases on current events.

In summary, I'm trying to keep my head above water.. but I just wanted to let my real life friends know that I'm sorry if I miss your birthdays, your big life events, your children's accomplishments, and other things you may post about. I'm happy for you, excited for you, and I love seeing you and your kids grow up.. Just understand that I'm taking a long break.. If you ever need to get a hold of me, e-mail me, tag me, or message me on Facebook.

Another serious post

One of my favorite authors died today at the age of 66:

Michael Crichton

I don't know how many of you have read his many books, but they are literally some of the best books ever written. He has written about important topics before his time (genetic engineering in the early 1990's in Jurassic Park) and some great science-fiction novels (Sphere and Andromeda Strain). I read the book Jurassic Park when I was 11 and I was HOOKED.

In his honor, I plan on borrowing his books from the library and re-reading them. I highly recommend you do so yourself.

The next JFK?

Ok.. this is probably the most serious blog post I'll ever write.. but I'm feeling political.

Anyways, I have to admit.. I was first excited by Obama running for president. I felt like our country needed change, and he represented a big change. But after inspecting his platform, I decided his ideals were a little too radical for me. #1 thing I don't want: universal health care.

One thing that's been driving me nuts about Obama's campaign is how his supporters idolize him, calling him "The One".. likening him practically to a Messiah. Isn't it dangerous to have such high expectations in one man? Should we worship our country's president?

Dave Chappelle said on his show.. "you should never be the first black person to do anything", because there'll be a horrible story associated with it.

Our country is more progressive than it used to be, and we're not all racist.. but it's possible that attempted assassinations will happen during Obama's presidency. I think Obama is going to be remembered as a JFK for our generation. Young, attractive.. represents hope.. and might die young as a president?