The Firefly Project: Matt Hutchison

I met Matt while we lived across the hall from each other in the dorms at Cal Poly SLO. He was one of the few people whom I bonded with my freshman year, in fact he was even nice enough to let me borrow his gold Honda Legend to get to off-campus for a few class meetings. Matt’s path and mine reconnected 6 years ago when I took a job near Sunnyvale (his hometown); he had moved back home to pursue a career in fire/police and we reconnected with the help of Facebook. Matt came in and helped me set up my brand new classroom - he was patient and understanding, especially when I made him reconfigure an entire wall of shelves only to change my mind and have him move it back the next day. While I don’t get the opportunity to see Matt as much as I’d like, I know that he lives his life in service, not only while serving as a Public Safety Officer in Sunnyvale but in his everyday life. He is a loving husband to Katie and loyal friend. I value the times that we do spend together - annual pumpkin carving, hitting balls at the driving range, or watching Zac Efron movies (ok, so that was only once). His sense of humor can’t be overlooked and I especially value the way he will speak his mind and give his honest opinion when I’m seeking advice.

Today Matt came into my classroom to read to the kids in celebration of Dr. Seuss’s birthday - he did this despite having just worked a graveyard shift. That's just the kind of guy he is. He was enthusiastic and the kids absolutely loved hearing him read our favorite tongue twister Fox in Socks. I’m lucky to call Matt my friend.  

Matt, you make the world a brighter place.

The Firefly Project: Jennifer Kontich

Jennifer is a friend who is constantly impressing me, both personally and professionally. While I met Jennifer down at Cal Poly, we didn’t really connect until we were both working in Santa Clara and further strengthened our friendship while going through a Masters Program together at San Jose State. On a professional level, Jennifer is a competent, dedicated, and enthusiastic teacher - she loves her job and she not only excels in the classroom, but has taken on more extra responsibilities in her years of service than most. As a graduate classmate and part of our cohort, Jennifer proved herself to be motivated, organized, and thorough - a perfect balance for an “orange” like me. I didn’t think anyone loved “To Do” lists as much as me until I met Jennifer.

On a personal level, she is an amazing friend who I feel fortunate to have in my life. Both Jennifer and her husband are an absolute blast to be around - they cut a rug harder than any married couple I know. Jennifer is active, loves the outdoors, and does a seemingly effortless job of balancing friends spread geographically throughout the greater Bay Area as well as consistently making time for her family and in-laws. Jennifer is currently pregnant with what will undoubtedly be an incredibly active little girl; she is going to make a fantastic mother. I can’t wait to have a mini version of her running around. 

Jennifer, you make the world a brighter place.

The Firefly Project: Allison Gomez

Today’s firefly is a girl who inspires me with her ambition, drive, and the way she gives 110% to everything that she does. If there was a modern day, female equivalent of a “Renaissance Man” - Allison would be it. 

She is a gorgeous young lady with amazing athletic abilities who is focused and dedicated to her health and fitness. She attends group classes daily AND has made time to supplement with an extensive triathalon training program. Oh, and did I mentioned she holds down a very successful full time job in addition to all of that. In the past few months, I’ve been lucky enough to also get to spend some time with her outside the training facility. She’s always up for an adventure - whether it’s carving pumpkins, driving to the city for a movie premier, or taking an art lesson at a random El Torito. Every time I hang out with Allison I find out something else she’s got up her sleeves - skiing, rockclimbing, and baking to name a few. Not only do I admire the way she throws herself into everything whole-heartedly, but I appreciate the way that she maintains a great demeanor and balances all her obligations. I am lucky to call Allison a friend, and I look forward to many more adventures with her. 

Allison, you make the world a brighter place.

The Firefly Project: Mike Minkel

Today I had the pleasure of grabbing coffee and catching up with my latest firefly, Mike Minkel. I met Minkel a little less than a year ago when we became roommates at the McNiff Mansion (read: equivalent of a frat house for twenty-somethings). During our short stint as roomies I grew to love Minkel. His overwhelming awesome sense of humor sometimes overshadows the other amazing qualities he possesses, including one of the biggest hearts out there. He is genuine in every sense of the word. His word is good, his intentions are pure and he's always willing to help - whether it means lugging furniture for friends in his gigantic truck, helping me build a bookshelf at 2am (sorry Jeff and Janelle) or just hanging out when I needed a couch surfing buddy. Minkel brings a laugh and a smile to anyone that he encounters.

While I lived with Mike, he worked for the Giants and gave of his time to coach a youth baseball team. Mike's passion for baseball can only be rivaled by his passion for junk food. You wouldn't know it by looking at him, but the boy can eat! My favorite Minkel story is when he shared with me his idea of a workout: running to Panda Express or Taco Bell to get food, and then running home to eat it. All joking aside, Minx is a friend who I know will be around for a lifetime; even when we go weeks without talking I know we can sit down - like we did today - and pick up right where we left off. Those are the kind of friends anyone would love to have. 

For the joy you bring to the people around you and the willingness you have to help others, you make the world a brighter place.

The Firefly Project: Charming Nails

Today, while getting my nails done - I had an unorthodox idea. If people can be fireflies, why can't places or things? So today, my firefly is Charming Nails. For me (and probably others) a manicure can remedy a bad day, help celebrate a victory, or simply provide an hour of relaxation.

When I find a great place for manicures, I cherish it. Brought here years ago by a coworker, I now visit this Franklin Mall location whenever I can justify a little pampering. Their prices are reasonable, facilities are clean, staff is friendly, and nail polish selection is ample. I always leave there with a great mani/pedi and a smile on my face.

Thank you, Charming Nails for providing the South Bay with a fantastic and affordable pampering option - you make the world a brighter place.

Express Pedicure: $20     Express Manicure: $12     Gel Manicure: $22     Mini Facial: $30

The Firefly Project: Kristin Seaburg

I met Kristin in quite a serendipitous circumstance - attending the wedding of our dear mutual friends Kristin and Brett in Sarasota, Florida. Through a series of events we ended up sharing a room that weekend, and a friendship couldn't help but grow. We both shared similar past experiences that helped us bond initially, and our similar outlooks on fitness, life, and fun helped us grow to be great friends.

Kristin is a physical therapist who is always willing to help someone (even when they ask for advice in the middle of her workout). She is always up for activities, adventures and new experiences; her love of travel and sense of spontaneity are things in her that I truly admire. Kristin has had her fair share of struggle over the course of the last year, but her loyalty, resiliency, and positive attitude have pulled her through and given her the chance to reevaluate and refocus her energy.

For the amazing zest for life that you share with the people you encounter, you make the world a brighter place.

The Firefly Project: Katy Casellini

Everyone should have a friend like Katy Casellini. She is loyal, trustworthy, caring, and compassionate. She’s been there for me at the lowest of my lows - picking me up and dusting me off. She’s been there to celebrate my highest highs and reassure me that I deserve all the good things that have come my way.

I was fortunate enough to meet Katy in 2007 when I moved to the bay area to start my career at Laurelwood - she was an intern in the room next door. What began as co-workers developed fast into a friendship as I was lucky enough to be welcomed into Katy's world. We've never taught more than a door away from each other (which works out well so we can pop in and "check on each other" throughout the day) Her dedication to teaching is admirable; the time and energy that she has put in the past couple of years to become Reading Recovery certified has increased her professional contributions exponentially. She is an amazing teacher, a great co-worker and an even better friend. 

Throughout the years we have had our share of adventures, from road trips to emotional roller-coasters and everything in between. When I met Katy, the prospect of a road trip to San Luis Obispo with no real agenda and the promise of "couches to sleep on" was a daunting one - she's a planner. Over the years she has embraced more of the go-with-the-flow approach and it's led to some of our most memorable adventures. Katy loves the beach, especially San Diego - we celebrated her birthday and a couple New Years there and it really is as magical as she believe it to be. :)

Katy has made a huge transformation since I met her 6 years ago, both physically and otherwise. She has lost over 40 pounds in the time I've known her and changed her outlook on both diet and exercise. A couple years ago, Katy introduced me to Club Circuit, which vastly changed the way I thought about working out; she still attends weekly and is dialed into an amazing group of supportive individuals. She is always supportive when I'm starting a new diet program (even when it receives less than warm receptions in the staff room) and she enjoys her morning Shakeology out of a red solo cup as much as I do. Katy has been a vegetarian for more than a year now; this compassionate choice is one that I both respect and admire (even though I didn't fully understand its' power until recently). We've run races together, and even conquered each of our first half marathon together at the Las Vegas Rock N Roll - an experience that I won't soon forget. While it hasn't been an easy journey to a healthier lifestyle, she's stayed committed and now has chosen to help share her success and motivation through a coaching role at Beachbody. In the short time she's been enrolled, she is already helping dozens of people to follow the same course that she did. 

Katy's kindness, compassion, professionalism, loyalty, trustworthiness, and thoughtfulness are just a few of the qualities that come to mind when I think of how to describe her. She has such a positive impact on the world around her, from children, to friends, to complete strangers that she inspires by example. 

For all that you do, all that you are, and all that you aspire to be - Katy, you make the world a brighter place.

The Firefly Project: Patti Bell

Patti is the kind of co-worker that everyone wants to have. She is reliable, resourceful and helpful - plus she has the absolute best sense of humor. Patti can make ANY situation better with her light-hearted demeanor, mastery of sarcasm and delightfully off-color humor. Patti’s family is a huge priority and she especially loves spending time with her grandson, Wyatt. Patti’s unwavering patriotism and support for those in public service is admirable (police, fire, military, etc). She wears red every Friday to show her support and I’ve never seen someone with more festive attire, as far as holidays are concerned. 

Patti, for all that you do for the students, staff and community of Laurelwood - you make the world a brighter place. 

The Firefly Project: Emil Tchalamov

Today’s firefly is a Emil Tchalamov. 

Emil is a trainer at my gym who not only brings enjoyment and humor to every workout he leads, but shows a genuine interest in each individual who passes through the facility’s doors. He has a great work ethic and an even better sense of humor (whether he means to or not). Once, he shared with me all of the strange Bulgarian "medical remedies" that he used to do when he was younger - I wish I would've written them down. He is highly quoteable ("go home, eat some protein and veggies and come back tomorrow.") and his direct, no-nonsense approach to coaching really motivates me to push myself harder than I would independent of him. While I can’t speak to every aspect of Emil’s life, I can tell that he is a caring husband and an amazingly supportive dad. He published a blog a few weeks ago talking about how Parents Always Lead By Example, it was both heartfelt and inspiring. After having a couple interactions with Emil’s adorable daughter, it's easy to tell he’s setting a good one. 

Emil, with your enthusiastic demeanor and great sense of humor - you make the world a brighter place.

The Firefly Project: Chris Chiampas

Valentime’s Day seems like a fitting day to recognize and honor the man who truly makes me happier than I knew was possible. Christopher Michael Chiampas came into my life 364 days ago and it’s been a whirlwind journey ever since. Our “first date” spanned the course of four days and included a fabulous dinner (that we’re recreating tonight), go kart racing, hiking to the Tourist Club, an impromptu dinner in SF’s China Town and a BBQ with his family - I never looked back. We just click; he is the guy who finally brought truth to the cliche “When you meet the one, you’ll just know”. He is so compassionate, patient, and loving; he’s taken the time to learn about my love languages, and always finds the perfect gestures, words, and actions to show me his love. I could go on and on about the qualities he possesses that make him an ideal mate, but that would only begin to scratch the surface of the impact he has on making the world a better place.

Chris is and one-of-a-kind person. He values his family, friends and mine; he does all that he can to reach out to them in whatever capacity he can. I am constantly in awe of the way he conducts himself in both personal and professional life. He is hard-working, ambitious, honest, and successful. He sets lofty goals in all areas of life and chips away at them and accomplishes them, having fun along the way. He is one of the most well-spoken people that I know (and he gives me a run for my money at Jeopardy, no matter what he says). Chris can fix a computer, fix a car, and fix a darn good drink - how’s that for a Renaissance Man? He has an animated personality and great sense of humor. He throws himself 110% into anything and everything that he does - whether it’s an over-the-top party or a relationship. I admire that quality in him more than I can express.


For all that you do, all that you’ve done, 
and the bright future that I know lies ahead for us - I applaud you. 

Chris, you make the world a brighter place

The Firefly Project: Lent Edition

Since I can remember, I’ve always observed Lent. I’ve abstained from eating meat on Fridays, I’ve given up anything from "technology after ten" to alcohol to chocolate. I think most people can say that they’ve participated in this 40* day tradition at one point or another (for religious reasons or otherwise). Anyone who knows me, knows that I love a good challenge involving restriction - whether it’s a detox, a diet, etc. - but this year I decided that instead of removing something from my life, I wanted to do something to appreciate and pay tribute to all the amazing people who I’m blessed enough to know and love. Last year I had a similar ambition; I was going to send a letter to someone who’d influenced my life everyday for 40* days. I don’t think any of these letters ever got stamps affixed.

This year, I’m feeling especially blessed and want to honor the people who have helped to get me to the point I am today - the happiest and healthiest I can remember being. It just so happened that Shannon Taylor, a trainer at my fitness facility, has begun a similar endeavor entitled The Firefly Project. For 100 days, she will recognize someone whose presence and contributions make the world a better place. With her blessing, I’ve decided to do my own version of The Firefly Project. Each day during Lent, I will identify someone who makes the world brighter with their existence. 

My goal is to blog about the person each day so that we can all celebrate these fantastic individuals; I want to share these amazing people and their contributions with the world. Perhaps it will encourage someone else to smile a little bigger, help another person, inspire change, or pass along the appreciation to someone else. 

*Lent actually is 46 days between Ash Wednesday and Easter Sunday

Beachbody Ultimate Reset: My Results

Well, I did it. I completed the 21-day Beachbody Ultimate Reset. I feel happier and healthier than I did 21 days ago and have noticed many favorable changes, both physically and emotionally. I can now wholeheartedly recommend this cleanse to anyone who is looking to lose weight, lose inches, change eating habits and improve overall health.

Not only did I have a satisfying physical transformation, but I feel like I took so much more with me.
Shopping, planning, and prepping all of the meals helped me gain confidence in my culinary skills (Champ didn't mind the break either) My taste buds have been introduced some new foods, and many recipes that I will make again post-reset. My willpower was tested with things like warm Stan's doughnuts in the Staff Room, and treats at both a Baby Shower and a Book Club - but I stayed the course.

My Results
So you want to know my final results? My measurements are done and I'd love to share!
I knew I'd lost some weight/inches because I literally don't have a pair of jeans that fits without a belt, but it's always a bonus when the numbers validate the way you feel/see yourself.

I lost a total of 9.2 pounds, 
8 total inches - 1/2" off each bicep, 2" off my chest, 1" off my waist, 2" off my hips, 1/2" off each thigh, 1/2" off each calf  
and my BMI went from 21.4% to 18%

(Here is a photo comparison on Day 1, Day 7, and Day 21.)

Grocery Cost
Some people have asked how much groceries cost for a program like this. Since Champ and I completed the Reset together, my costs reflect what you would pay for a couple.
My total grocery bills for the entire cleanse was $474.69. Week 1 was the most expensive since it included buying staples for the pantry that are used throughout the cleanse. All of my shopping was done at our local Farmers Market, Whole Foods, Trader Joes, and local asian market. When you consider that this budgets provides 3 organic, substantial and delicious meals and 1 snack per day for 2 people, it works out to between $3-4/meal. I did not buy any prepackaged meals, and created everything as the Program Guide lays it out. There is a "Crunch Page" available for people who are trying to simplify menus or are short on prep time, I would imagine this would help to save money as well.


For anyone interested - I will be starting a new Ultimate Reset group on March 4th. If you are interested and have three weeks to commit, please contact me. I'd love to coach you through it and get you connected to our accountability group - complete with online support, weekly phone calls, and all the help you could need.

Beachbody Ultimate Reset: Week Three

The Beachbody Ultimate Reset meal plan includes a full diet for 21 days, which is nothing like a starvation diet. It will help in the process of getting your body to its maximum well-being. The kit includes: a Participant Guide Book with all the information you need, plus a three-week eating plan with recipes, cooking tips, shopping lists and more to help you change your eating routines completely. It includes Six Essential Supplements: detox, alkalinize, oxygenize, mineralize, optimize and revitalize—just what your body needs for an ultimate reset. There is extensive support from your Team Beachbody coach and other team members available online anytime.

Week 3: Reclaim
In this phase, you'll eliminate grains and legumes to focus on simple, cleansing fruit and vegetable-based diet.

The Food

In a week that could have been rather boring (having only fruits and vegetables), we enjoyed the meals. Not only did we get to have heaps of fruit each morning, but I loved lots of the dinner recipes. I had forgotten how much I love sweet potatoes, this week reminded me in the most glorious way. Here are a few of our favorites:

Breakfasts 

for example: half plum, half apple, assorted berries

Lunchs

Hearty Vegetable-Miso Soup and Microgreen Salad

Carrot-Seaweed Medley and Microgreen Salad

Dinners

Curry Cauliflower, Lemon Pepper Kale and Brown Rice

Baked Sweet Potato, Steamed Veggies, Quiinoa

Mediterranean Roasted Beets, Baked Tempeh, Coconut Collard Greens

 

My Experience
This week was absolutely great. I don't know if it was the "final countdown" nature of it, the lack of detox supplement or the great dinners and big portions, but I really enjoyed this third week. The conversations about what we wanted to eat after the Reset was done were prevalent, but we were committed to complete the Reset in it's entirety. I have to say that doing this with someone else is key. I was lucky enough to have Champ do it with me, but we also had a great little group doing it at the same time - we had a facebook accountability page and weekly calls. It was nice to know that other people were eating the same thing as you and going through the same struggles and successes.

 The Supplements

Oxygenize: Liquid oxygen helps to boost your immune system and keeps the body's cells unclogged. These drops that are taken prior to each meal help to detoxify your body and prevent premature aging by providing additional oxygen. 
Mineralize: Natural salt adds natural minerals needed in your body. Adding Mineralize to water that you drink throughout the Reset aids the digestive tract and regulates water content, supporting cellular function.
Optimize: Systematic enzymes play an important role in all body functions. This supplement is taken prior to each meal helps promote optimal immune and inflammatory responses. 
Alkalinize: For maximum health, your blood should be slightly alkaline. This highly concentrated drink made of greens helps bring your body to a healthy pH balance.
Revitalize: Pre and Probiotics help the body maintain the right environment for intestinal health.



 If you have questions about the Beachbody Ultimate Reset or want more information, please feel free to ask: vickiewags@gmail.com or visit www.facebook.com/vickiewags

Beachbody Ultimate Reset: Week Two

 After the holiday seasons, many people are looking for a way to cleanse their bodies and remove the toxins that they've built up over the past days, weeks, months and even years. New years resolutions are made, diets are determined and goals are set. When choosing a good detox program, look for one that will include meal plans that are natural and pure so that body functions can improve without deprivation. This year, I chose to challenge myself to complete the Beachbody Ultimate Reset.

The Ultimate Reset meal plan includes a full diet for 21 days, which is nothing like a starvation diet. It will help in the process of getting your body to its maximum well-being. The kit includes: a Participant Guide Book with all the information you need, plus a three-week eating plan with recipes, cooking tips, shopping lists and more to help you change your eating routines completely. It includes Six Essential Supplements: detox, alkalinize, oxygenize, mineralize, optimize and revitalize—just what your body needs for an ultimate reset. There is extensive support from your Team Beachbody coach and other team members available online anytime.
 
Week 2: Release
In this phase, you'll completely eliminate animal products, including dairy, eggs, and meat. You'll move to more vegetable, fruit, and whole-grain based diet.

The Food

Food this week was somewhat less exciting than Week 1. We were mainly eating a lot of vegetables, fruits, grains and legumes, but all of the recipes were ample, so I didn't miss meat at all. Here are some sample meals:

Breakfasts 

one example: half plum, half peach, cup blueberries, cup grapes, couple strawberries

Lunchs

Pinto Beans and Rice w/ Microgreen Salad

Microgreen Salad w/ tomato, cucumber, carrot, pepper, avocado, and sprouts

Dinners  

Pinto Beans and Rice, Zucchini, and Green Beans

Sweet Potato and Roasted Red Pepper Bisque with Roasted Asparagus

Hearty Vegetable-Miso Soup and 1 cup steamed swiss chard

       
My Experience
My energy levels dipped slightly during the first day of Week 2. After that, my energy levels were high; I did feel the need for a snack between lunch and dinner. I was a bit irritable (sorry Champ) near the end of the week. We went for walks (or hikes) almost every day. Throughout the week, I lost almost 4 more pounds and my clothes began to look noticeably looser. While this was the "release" phase, I didn't feel indigestion or urgency that is usually associated with a colon cleansing process.

While the shopping and prep took less time this week than during Week 1. The most labor intensive was prep for Champ's trip to Florida - I packed all of his meals, labeled them and made sure to swap out the soup recipe since he was carrying on his only bag. He made it through security without incidence and stuck to the diet while traveling (quite proud of him)

 The Supplements
Oxygenize: Liquid oxygen helps to boost your immune system and keeps the body's cells unclogged. These drops that are taken prior to each meal help to detoxify your body and prevent premature aging by providing additional oxygen. 
Mineralize: Natural salt adds natural minerals needed in your body. Adding Mineralize to water that you drink throughout the Reset aids the digestive tract and regulates water content, supporting cellular function.
Optimize: Systematic enzymes play an important role in all body functions. This supplement is taken prior to each meal helps promote optimal immune and inflammatory responses. 
Alkalinize: For maximum health, your blood should be slightly alkaline. This highly concentrated drink made of greens helps bring your body to a healthy pH balance.
Detox: Helps remove toxins and waste from the colon.




 If you have questions about the Beachbody Ultimate Reset or want more information, please feel free to ask: vickiewags@gmail.com or visit www.facebook.com/vickiewags