Lose It For Lou Gehrig's Challenge - Back for 2015!

Sometimes it's staggering to think of how much can change in a year. Last December the Thoman brothers were frying turkeys, drinking Bailey's, and spending what would be our last Christmas with our brother Perry. He would lose his battle with ALS just one month later.

ALS, or Lou Gehrig's disease - well, it sucks. There's no cure and no effective treatment - at least not yet. But I think we have the power to change that. That's why Team Perry will continue to fundraise for the ALS Association in Perry's memory. But we need your help. Here's a few things we can do together in 2015:

1. Enjoy and appreciate our bodies and what they can do! It's easy to take things like walking for granted. Let's not. Instead, let's challenge ourselves in 2015 to take care of the bodies we've been given - fuel them with healthy foods, challenge them with physical activity, and appreciate what they have been equipped to do. When was the last time you pushed yourself to beat a personal record, hike up a mountain, try a new dance step, etc.? This is the year!

2. Sign up for the Lose It For Lou Gehrig's Challenge. A friendly competition designed to encourage healthy habits in 2015! If you took the comments above to heart, this challenge can help! For six weeks, you can earn points for your healthy habits (like eating veggies or taking a Zumba class). You'll also have special bonus challenges each week that will encourage self-reflection, goal-setting, and even provide a few opportunities to step out of your comfort zone! $20 to participate - Half goes to the ALS Association, half goes into the "pot" for the winner!

One of the bonus challenges from last year was to share our "why" for joining the challenge. You can ready my original blog post HERE. I'm guessing that there is a "why" for you too! Will you join us?

Commit to participate by December 31, 2014. View the Facebook event for registration info. 

Sand, Sun, and Salsa: Tips for Zumba Instructors Planning A Teaching Vacation

My husband and I just returned from a week long stay at two amazing resorts in Punta Cana - Breathless and Secrets Royal Beach. The trip was coordinated through Fit Bodies, a company that organizes teaching vacations for a variety of group fitness instructors including (you guessed it) LICENSED ZUMBA FITNESS INSTRUCTORS! 

Typically instructors stay at one resort for the entire week, but because of a scheduling conflict (a.k.a. the Dominican Holidaze concert), we had the opportunity to split the week between both resorts. 

I had an AMAZING experience, and I learned so much! If you are a licensed Zumba instructor interested in planning your own teaching vacation (highly recommended!), I hope these tips are helpful to you!

Secrets Royal Beach

1. Get comfortable with ambiguity. You won't know the where's, when's, why's, and how's until you arrive at your resort. Fit Bodies will give you general information before your departure, but consider it as more of a guideline. You won't know the specifics until you arrive and talk to the resort's Entertainment Team. For example, I knew I'd be teaching Monday through Saturday. But the resort determined class time, format, and location after check-in.  

2. Prep your playlists, but plan for changes. I initially expected to do two 45-minute classes a day (one Zumba and one Aqua Zumba). Instead, my classes were much shorter and all on land. Thankfully I had all of Zumba music on my iPhone, and I was able to make changes as needed (and I made LOTS of them). I would encourage you to make multiple playlists, multiple lengths (anything from 25-45 minutes), and still be ready to change 'em up as needed. 

Two of my fave students at Breathless
from Belgium and Romania!

3. Follow the formula. I was continually shown that the Zumba formula WORKS! Pick fun, interactive songs; use simple, repetitive moves; cue so that your students can be successful! At both resorts I had students from all over the world. Some spoke English. Many did not. Yet we all were able to dance and have fun. Why? Because Zumba (and Zumba love) is universal. 

4. No shoes, no shirt, just Zumba. For my first class, I hit the beach in sneakers with an intense playlist. I was determined to help burn off those frozen Banana Mamas! In contrast, my students arrived barefoot and in swimwear. It was much easier (on both my back and my spirit) when I ditched the kicks, lightened the intensity, and allowed myself to relax and enjoy dancing on the beach with my students!

5. Mentally prepare yourself to dance solo for the first minute of every class. This is intimidating! But after the first time it happened, I knew to pick my opening song accordingly - it had to be something that allowed me to walk around, engage with the guests around me, and try to get them up and dancing. Once that first minute is over, I promise you that people WILL come join you (just sweat it out for the first 60 seconds, and have a blast after that!)

Fidel, Entertainment Manager
at Secrets Royal Beach and
my boss for the week!

6. Be open-minded. When I first arrived at Secrets, it was rainy. I was asked to teach an afternoon class by the pool bar, and when I arrived it had just started to drizzle. I could have tried to convince the Entertainment Manager, Fidel, to let me pass on the class. But instead we gave it a try. And guess what... between the raindrops against my face and the booty-shaking battles, it ended up being one of my most memorable classes!

7. Show 'em some Zumba love. After a day or two on each resort, I had "regulars" that I looked forward to seeing at most of my classes. We exchanged names, snapped selfies, and talked when we saw each other outside of class. I had a blast getting to know people from all of the world who shared my love for Zumba (I also passed out plenty of business cards to keep the connection going and encouraged them to find classes near them on Zumba.com)! 

Want to learn more about booking a teaching vacation? Check out Fit Bodies or login to Zumba.com and view the discounts page.  

The opinions and views expressed by this ZCOM Volunteer on this website are solely those of the ZCOM Volunteer and do not reflect the opinions or views of Zumba Fitness, LLC, its subsidiaries, officers, directors, employees and agents.

Thanksgiving Morning: Sore Muscles and a Full Heart

I woke up EARLY on Thanksgiving morning excited to run the New Cumberland SMT Turkey Trot with family and friends. But when I woke up, I almost had to roll myself out of bed. I was SORE (I did reverse lungs with Derek at Tuesday's training session and my legs were fighting back)!

As I rolled myself out of bed (slowly), I realized that my sore muscles were actually something to be THANKFUL for (just don't tell Derek that I said that)! Here's why...

1. I still have the ability to move, dance, squat, walk, and run. And as I've said before, that is definitely something to be thankful for! Many cannot - and it's important to keep that in mind every time I lace up my sneakers to head out for a run or a Zumba class. Check out 4D and read about Jeff Fazio's story - he ran 50 5K's in 50 states in one year - all in support of those that can't run.

"Who was I to question a second lap when so many don't even have the option of attempting the first one?" Jeff Fazio

 2. After a year filled with a good bit of stress and some extra pounds gained, some post-workout soreness means I'm still in the battle. I'm not where I want to be, but darn it, I'm still in the fight! And that's important to remember. Remember this quote from Rocky?

"Going in one more round when you don't think you can - that's what makes all the difference in your life." Rocky Balboa 

 3. My legs may be sore, but my heart is FULL! Even with my jelly legs, I made it to the Turkey Trot and shared those three miles with an amazing group of friends and family. And as we ate our post-race pumpkin pie, I was reminded to be THANKFUL for the company I share along the course (in the Turkey Trot and in life)!

What are you thankful for this year? Share in the comments below! 

Soaringwords: Bringing Zumba to Hershey Children's Hospital

One of the things I love most about being a licensed Zumba Fitness instructor is that I am provided with an instant, portable gift that I give to others. I'm not crafty, and I certainly can't cook (an understatement). But I CAN use my skills as a Zumba Fitness instructor to bring physical activity, laughter, and JOY to others! All I need to do is grab some music and a few friends, and I'm ready to... 

• Host a Zumbathon charity event for great organizations like the ALS Association, American Cancer Society, and National MS Society or for local families in need. We host a lot of these in the Central PA area, and I think it's such a great way to meet and collaborate with other instructors, meet new students, and raise money for a good cause at the same time. 
• Help a girl scout troop earn their next badge. Last year I was invited to teach a Zumba Kids class to a local troop, and it was a BLAST! We danced, played games, and laughed (a lot)! At the end of the class, the girls even performed a Zumba song with their own choreography! 
• Teach a Zumba Gold class at a nursing home or other residential facility. ZIN Linda Woodin organizes monthly classes at Paxton Ministries (a residential facility for adults with social, mental, or emotional needs). It's impossible to not have an amazing time doing this! Guaranteed that the entire room leaves with a smile!

At the Zumba Instructor Convention in August I learned about another way to help... I found out about a collaboration between Zumba Fitness and New York-based non-profit, Soaringwords. 

As part of this new program, licensed Zumba instructors visit children's hospitals across the country and teach free classes to the kids and families staying there. With the Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital so class to us, it seemed like a natural fit. Another one of my Zumba "sisters", Linda Woodin, had the same idea, and we decided to team up to try to get this program rolling here in PA!

Some of my favorite Zumba Education Specialists (like ZES Richard Gormley!) are already actively involved in the program. I love hearing him talk about the JOY he is able to bring to the kids that he meets!

"I look forward to teaching my monthly classes at Children’s Hospital. Seemingly healthy children and those hooked up to IVs join the fun, some in wheelchairs, all ready to dance. These are regular kids who just want to DANCE and have FUN. We have the pleasure of delivering joy. The joy spreads and follows them back to their rooms and changes the perspective life of those present forever!” - Richard Gormley, Zumba Education Specialist

November 11. 2014 - Initial Meeting!

Time to get started! Earlier this month we had our initial meeting with the team at the Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital, Sarah Miller & Ashley Kane. We talked about logistics (class format, location, sound system), paperwork (Soaringwords instructor agreement, photo release forms, etc.), and scheduling. The best part? We tentatively set a date for our FIRST CLASS - January 13, 2015! 

Look for additional posts about Soaringwords, Zumba, and the Penn State Hershey Children's Hospital in January! I can't wait to share updates as we get closer to our first class! 

Local to Central PA and want to join us? Contact me or Linda!

Want to start a Soaringwords + Zumba Fitness program in your area? If you are a licensed Zumba Fitness Instructor, you can learn more at www.soaringwords.org/zumba/ 

Lessons From My Grandfather: Remembering Glenn Helt

This morning I found out my grandfather, Glenn "Paw-Paw" Helt, passed peacefully at the Harrisburg Hospital. As we begin to say our goodbyes, I couldn't help but think of all that I have learned from the Helt family patriarch. I thought it would be fitting to share a few of those lessons here.

 

Be good stewards. Paw-Paw always taught me to take care of what I've been given. End the end of a painting project, he was fastidious in cleaning his brushes. When the dishwasher stopped working, he tried to repair it before buying a new one. In a world where it's often easier to throw things away or buy it new - he valued and cared for what he had. He lived simply, and because of that, he always had everything he needed. A great philosophy to follow. 

Get 'er done. Nothing stopped Paw-Paw. Even after complications with his back surgery last year, we could find him painting floors in the basement or climbing counters to change a light bulb. Definitely one of the toughest guys I know. How many times do we tell ourselves that we "can't" do something? Guess what - we are lying to ourselves. He showed me that mental tenacity can outweigh physical "limitations" every single time. Truly, if there's a will, there's a way. 

Appreciate your family.  Every time we visited my grandfather, he said thank you. He was so appreciative of our visit and our time. He never took family for granted, and I love that about him. It's a wonderful reminder for us to appreciate those who are around us. How long has it been since you've called your mom? How about visit your grandma? Do it! It means so much!

Enjoy life. One of my favorite memories of my grandfather was at our hunting camp. Every summer we traveled as a family: grandparents, parents, cousins, and eventually spouses and children. A few years ago, Paw-Paw took us on a lengthy hike. I don't remember the exact distance, but it really felt FAR! At the end of the hike we returned, out-of breath and exhausted, to the camp. But Paw-Paw was absolutely unaffected. He took a seat on the porch, popped open a beer, and was completely content. I don't think I'll ever forget that moment. How many times do we allow ourselves to just enjoy life like that? We work so hard in life, but sometimes all we really should be doing is drinking a beer on the porch with those we love the most.

Thank you Paw-Paw Helt for the many wonderful lessons and memories you have given me. You will be missed. 

Fear, Freddy Krueger, and My New Job

We talk about FEAR a lot around Halloween. We watch scary movies with terrifying baddies like Michael Myers, Jason Vorhees, and Freddy Krueger. We take haunted hayrides and are "attacked" by Leatherface. Over and over again, we enjoy the thrill of adrenaline as we are faced with the frightening images inspired by our nightmares. Fear can be fun!

My "scary" Zumba class at our annual Halloween party!

But just like Freddy Krueger pops into the nightmares of his victims unannounced, fear can do the same to us. It can creep into our lives when we least expect it - and it can get the best of us if we don't keep it in check.

Last week I accepted a new position as Activities Director at Central Penn College - a position I've wanted for a number of years. For the first few days, I was excited. But then it happened... FEAR crept in. Suddenly that adrenaline-pumping fun was gone - and in its place I found SELF-DOUBT.

I think sometimes CHANGE can be the Freddy Krueger of the professional world. Even in positive circumstances (like moving into my new position as Activities Director), we find ourselves fearful of leaving the familiar that surrounds us. I love my current co-workers, my office, my student workers. And I'm deliberately leaving them for the UNKNOWN (cue panic).

What if it's different than what I expected?
What if I can't do what I'm asked to do? 
What if I fail? 

But I can't let fear win. This is what I've been dreaming of! So in order to subdue my panic and fightback against Freddy, I reminded myself of the following:

1. While earning my Master's degree, I studied under the best! Incredible leaders in the field of Student Affairs: Dr. Jan Arminio, Dr. Shirley Hess, Dr. Marcy Douglass, Dr. Ford Brooks, and the rest of the Counseling team at Shippensburg University. I can't express how much the program changed my life (and changed me). 

2. While working as Coordinator of Student Life and Multicultural Programs at HACC, I had supervisors and colleagues that were willing to take the time to teach me! I have had incredible professional experiences thanks to Lynette Vogelsang, Lisa Cleveland, Jeff Fazio, Michael Sandy (and many more) during my time at HACC. 

3. College students are pretty awesome! As a student, I remember our Activities Director and SGA advisor - Linton "Bones" Saurman - telling us how he loved young people! His passion for students and for Student Life inspired me to consider higher ed as a career, and now I can't imagine being anywhere else. 

When I think of the things above, the self-doubt disappears and that positive, adrenaline-pumping excitement returns. I know I'm going where I need to be!

My point? Don't let fear hold you back! Re-count your successes and celebrate each one! We CAN be all that we are dreaming of (as long as we kick Freddy OUT of those dreams)! 

Share what YOU are dreaming of in the comments below!

Healthy Fast Food & My Future Franchise?

On Monday I traveled to a college fair in Horsham, PA. I always love visiting Hatboro-Horsham High School - easy drive, a super friendly guidance counselor, and of course I get to stop at one of my favorite places for lunch!

On my first trip to Horsham I passed a sign advertising "Healthy Fast Food." Curiosity (and disbelief) led me inside the restaurant. Could it be? Was there a healthy alternative to those other fast food chains?

What I found was Bryn and Dane's.

Bryn and Dane's is a reformatted version of "fast food." They call it a FAST FOOD REVOLUTION. The food is locally sourced, everything is lo-cal, and the business is operated sustainably. Of course, I LOVED IT based on these things alone! Then between the banana wraps (with granola and agave nectar - yum) and the sweet potato fries, I WAS SOLD!

Since that day I've been trying to convince my husband that we should buy a franchise (He's a tough sell, so we'll call that a work in progress)! And who's going to assist me in this venture? Well, my sis and bro, Rita and Arlen (of course)!

What I think I love most about Bryn and Dane's is that the founder, Bryn Davis, is able to use his restaurant to promote his passion for health and wellness (read more). It's a wonderful thing when your professional goals align so perfectly with your greater purpose!

The two most important days in your life are the day you are born and the day you find out why.  

Mark Twain 

Although I may never own a Bryn and Dane's franchise, I do know that I'm determined to find a similar sense of connection between my career and my purpose. I know I want to make a difference in the lives of others. I'm lucky enough to have two amazing outlets to do that - my job at Central Penn College and my role as a licensed Zumba Fitness instructor. With both, I get to watch my students accomplish their goals, and it is AWESOME!

What about you? How does YOUR profession fuel your purpose? Post your thoughts below!

#fastfoodrevolution #healthyfastfood #zumbafitness #zumbalove #bethechange

Busy Gals Get Healthy!

On Saturday I was invited to speak to the Professional Women's Group at Dress for Success South Central PA. The topic I was given? Staying well as a woman on the go. 

I immediately started wondering if I should be the one to give this presentation... I work too much, I sleep too little, I skip workouts with my trainer (sorry Derek), and I pick birthday cake over brussel sprouts every single time. But I think that's why I'm perfect for this presentation - because I imagine I'm a lot like most of you. I know how hard it can be, and I struggle right along with you!

Here are a few tips, ideas, and suggestions that I've been trying to work on. Perhaps they will be helpful to you as well.

FOOD

• Take Inventory - What temptations are hiding in your cabinets? It's easier to make healthy choices when you don't have Halloween candy eyeing you up from your kitchen counter. Could you start fresh by donating to your local food bank? 
• Clean Food - The idea is to increase natural, whole foods and decrease overly-processed foods or foods with added sugar. The fewer the ingredients, the better! Check out the ingredients listed on your favorite items - What did you find? Any surprises? 
• The “U” - Ready to fill up your kitchen with clean, healthy foods? Try to shop in the "U" (or the outer perimeter of the grocery story). This is where you'll find the fresh fruits, veggies, meats, dairy, etc. 
• Meal Prep - Sunday night take time to plan and cook your meals for the week. Load up your Tupperware and fill your fridge with grilled chicken, steamed veggies, and salads. When dinner time rolls around, you are less tempted to grab that box of Kraft Mac & Cheese because you already have something healthy ready to go. 
• Progress, Not Perfection -  Our meals will never be "perfect," but what can we do better this week? Can we start using whole rolled oats instead of flavored instant oatmeal? What about trying my new fave peanut butter, Crazy Richard's?! Start by making small changes and build from there. 

FITNESS

• Find What You LOVE! - Exercise is not one size fits all. Try different things until you find something that moves you physically and mentally! For me, that's ZUMBA! I love it, and I can't get enough! 
• Sleep In Your Gym Clothes - It's not easy to exercise at 6am (some mornings it's tough just to get to the coffee pot at that time!) But morning workouts are sometimes all that fit into my crazy schedule. Sleeping in my gym clothes (sports bra, socks, and all) seems to make it easier to roll out of bed when my alarm goes off. 
• Find A Buddy - Everything is better with good company - including your workout! But who you pick is important. Look for someone who is already committed to reaching their fitness goals. They can help to motivate you when things get tough!
• Take The Stairs - Pretend the elevator is always broken. Oh, and the parking spots closest to the building? They are always full! 
• Just 5 Minutes - Don't feel like working out? Tell yourself you'll do it for just five minutes. That's it! At the end of five minutes, you can stop if you choose to (but it's likely that you won't want to anymore!)

CREATE YOUR OWN RED SOLO CUP WORKOUT!
Supplies: 1 red Solo cup, 2 sheets of card stock (or any heavy grade of paper), scissors

Download the template: CLICK HERE.
Cut out all 25 exercise strips. 
Each morning, randomly select ten strips and do those exercises throughout the day!

STRESS RELIEF

• Get Psyched Playlist - Create an iTunes playlist with all of the songs that get you pumped up! Listen to it any time you need a little extra motivation!
• Clear Out Clutter - Whether it's in your house, on your desk, or in your computer files - clutter can be stressful! We regularly keep a bag handy for items that can be donated to Goodwill. 
• Give A Compliment - An easy way to make yourself feel better? Say something nice to someone else! Whether it's their awesome new 'do or their insightful comments at the committee meeting, it feels nice to be nice! 
• Call A Friend - Haven't talked to your bestie in awhile? Or perhaps a long-time friend that is no longer in the area? Call them! 
• Attitude of Gratitude - What are you thankful for? When life gets stressful, it's easy to forget the many things we have to be thankful for in our lives. Can you list five things right now?

What are your faves from the list above? Do you have tips to add to this list? Share them in the comments below!

Emerging Philanthropist Program

In March I was accepted into the inaugural class of Harrisburg's new Emerging Philanthropist Program (EPP) - a collaboration between Harrisburg Young Professionals and The Foundation For Enhancing Communities (TFEC).

The program is designed to "engage Harrisburg's emerging business and community leaders with the great possibilities that lie within philanthropic endeavors in Harrisburg." As a group, we will engage in those possibilities by awarding a $5,000 grant to a local non-profit organization.

To prepare ourselves to select the grant recipient, we attended a series of panel discussions featuring  philanthropic leaders in our community (One speaker had "Civic Leader" listed as a title on their nameplate. Impressive, right?! That's a title I want to hold someday!). At the panels we learned about:

• Assessing the needs of the community
• Fundraising
• Grantmaking
• Engaging the next generation in service

On Tuesday night, we met for another powerful session. We heard from three area non-profits. They are lesser know, but they are doing INCREDIBLE things! If you are looking for a group to get involved in, these three might be worth checking out:

Neighborhood Center of the United Methodist Church - Through their Young Mothers Together program, The Neighborhood Center provides support for pregnant and parenting teens through "counseling, advocacy, group support, emergency pantry, and apprenticeships." The staff and volunteers mentor the girls, teach them skills to support their child, and help them to begin to set goals for their lives. One easy was to support this program is by collecting Campbell's Soup labels - LEARN MORE

Samara - Samara takes a multigenerational approach to interrupting the cycle of abuse. They run small group sessions for both parents and children that focus on "healing families through nurture, education and self-discovery." This program, founded in 2008, is absolutely inspiring to me. They are giving parents (who may not have grown up in a supportive family environment) a vision of what a positive family environment could look like. And they do that without judgement. Everyone is welcome as they are. Support this program with your donation of time or treasure - LEARN MORE

The Joshua Group - Working in the heart of Allison Hill, where the high school dropout rate is almost 50%, The Joshua Group works to, "provide hope and support for at-risk youth particularly through educational and vocational opportunities." They run a strong after school program that focuses on tutoring and mentoring local youth, and are seeing awesome results - Joshua Group students have better attendance rates, higher GPA's and a 97% promotion/graduation rate! Support this program by volunteering your time to tutor or by donating items on their wish list (school supplies, cleaning supplies, etc.) - LEARN MORE

#bethechange 

Buying Land, Building a Legacy

"Do not let a Just Cause go unassisted by you. Do what you can. Never think that what you can do is not enough. Every little bit helps. To do nothing is what hurts."      Neale Donald Walsch.

Washington D.C. 

A few weeks ago I traveled with our College President, our Director of Marketing, and our College Diversity Coordinator to Washington DC to meet with Education USA, a federal advising center for international students. As Central Penn's International Admissions Counselor, it was a great opportunity to learn about the program and how it can match potential students from all over the world to our school.

But my biggest takeaway didn't come from the walls of a DC office building. It came from the four doors of our Chevy Explorer.

A long drive has a way of inspiring conversation, and our trip was a great opportunity for me to get to know our college leadership team. As we drove, our new Cultural Diversity Coordinator, Romeo Azondekon, shared glimpses of his past as well as a very profound glimpse of his future.

Romeo was originally born in Benin, but moved to the United States with his family as a child. A few years ago he traveled back to his native country to purchase a plot of land. Why? Because he eventually wants to be in a position to build a school for the children there.

Ok - let's break this down...

Many of us say that we want to make a difference. Many of us dream of doing big things for the greater good. Yet here is Romeo who has actually PURCHASED THE LAND TO MAKE IT HAPPEN. Wow!! He may not be building his school yet, but he has managed to take a huge and tangible step toward creating his legacy.

Now check out this video...

Did you take the time to watch it? Powerful, right? Narayanan Krishnan is creating his legacy by feeding those starving in his hometown. His empathy and love for others is palpable. And again I am inspired.

Listening to both stories made me start to think about what I say I want to do versus what I've actually done. It's time to get busy, and start thinking about my own legacy. In a symbolic sense, it's time for me to "buy my plot of land."

I'm not quite sure what that will look like, but I do know it's something I will be thinking about this week. Will you do the same? What will your legacy be? How will we get started?

#bethechange

No Sour Grapes: Wine Tour Recap

With my bus co-leader, Heather!

I love teaming up with friends for great causes! On Saturday Heather Masser and I led a winery bus tour to benefit Isaiah 61 homeless ministries. With a group of 20 friends, we traveled in a chartered bus to four Central PA wineries. Although the bus ride was a little toasty (our air-conditioning gave out after the first stop), the vineyards were breathtaking and the wine was delicious! Here's a recap of our day...

Hunters Valley Winery

HUNTERS VALLEY WINERY (Liverpool, PA) - They were our first stop of the day, and were so hospitable! They welcomed us with cheese and crackers, pretzels, and cookies. In a crock-pot they had warm samples of their COUNTRY SPICE wine waiting for us (I couldn't help but start thinking of the holidays)! My favorite wine was MIST IN THE VALLEY - a sparking red! They also generously donated 10% of our purchases to Isaiah 61.

Spyglass Ridge Winery

SPYGLASS RIDGE WINERY (Sunbury, PA) - I always love visiting Spyglass! The owner, Tom, spent a full hour telling us about the winery, the wines, and the fun events they have planned like the annual Celtic Festival and concert series. His passion for the winery is clear, and we learned so much from him. 2015 is going to be a big year for Spyglass as they plan to add a brick oven and begin distilling VODKA. We'll definitely be back to sample both next year!

SKEETER'S BBQ PIT (Shamokin Dam, PA) - Lunch time! We found a great spot overlooking the river that served pulled pork, pulled chicken, and homemade cornbread. A casual mid-day stop with a great view!

Benigna's Creek Winery

BENIGNA'S CREEK WINERY (Klingerstown, PA) - Even though she was sick that day, Jennifer (the events coordinator), was so nice! She took the time to give us a full tour of the winery and explained every step of their winemaking process. It truly made me appreciate the time and labor that it takes to produce a bottle of wine. From handpicking each bunch of grapes to bottling the wine for sale - the process is a lot of work (but the end results are certainly worth it)!

ARMSTRONG VALLEY WINERY (Halifax, PA) - Our final stop was right in my hometown! We started out in the tasting room where we all loved their CHA CHA (a carbonated white) mixed with their CRANBERRY wine. So good! I also picked up a few bottles of my favorite: their semi-dry RUTTER RED. Afterward we took a hayride through the vineyard! Midway through, they stopped the tractor and we were given the opportunity to taste grapes straight off the vine. So flavorful!

And at the end of the day, we had something even sweeter than wine to enjoy... our amazing group raised $275 for ISAIAH 61's homeless ministry. The money will help to provide warm and nutritious meals for many that are homeless in Dauphin County! Let's raise our glasses to that!

Our beautiful group! Thanks for a great day!

Catching Up With Coworkers

Kate showing me the ropes!

Two weeks ago I was sitting with Kate Savidge, Central Penn College's Enrollment Events Specialist (now account executive for Tanner Furniture). It was her last day, and I was getting a crash course on what would soon be my new role at the College!

As we went over event planning processes, student worker schedules, and student store inventory, we put one important date on our calendar - a happy hour to recap on the first few weeks in our new roles!

We met Friday night at Lancaster Brewing Company to fulfill that promise. And we found out it had been a busy two weeks for us both! Kate was getting to know her awesome new team and working with her first official clients. I was having fun getting to know our student workers (who have renamed themselves JARS - Junior Admissions Reps) and prepping for my first big event - Discovery Day.

As Kate and I talked at the bar, I began to notice a few other familiar faces in the room. As it turned out, one of my former employers, JPL Creative, was having a farewell party for Jeannie Kollar-Harvey, who has called JPL her professional home for the past eight years.

A few of my favorite faces from JPL. Jeannie is in the center in pink!

I was only at JPL for a short time, but it still felt great to see the people that made my time there so meaningful. There's nothing like catching up with old friends like Jeannie, WB, Kdog, Laura, Jill, Michael, Zen, AJ, Jason, Katy, and more; seeing updated pictures of kiddos now six years older (and A LOT taller); hearing about engagements, weddings, and milestones; and planning future opportunities to connect (Yep, I'm expecting to see ALL of you in one of my Zumba classes)!

And I thought it was super cool that two very different moments in my life seemed to intersect so randomly. But is life ever really random?

I walked to my car that night and I realized two things: 

(1.) I have had the opportunity to work with some really cool people! At JPL I was continually inspired by the talent and creativity surrounding me. I had never really considered myself to be a "creative" person, so most of the time I was absolutely awestruck by what they were doing! And although I'm still not a self-identified "creative" person, the team at JPL did help to strengthen that side of me. I'd like to say that a little of that JPL spirit rubbed off on me before I left!

(2.) Those cool people don't stop at the doors of JPL. I've been blessed to work with some amazing talent at Cumulus Media, the American Cancer Society, HACC, and now Central Penn College - and they've helped to teach me, too. At every stop on my professional journey, I've walked away with new skills and experiences to make me better!

As I begin my new job as Enrollment Events Coordinator at Central Penn, I'm excited to think about the new ways I'll learn and grow. Who will I connect with? What challenges will I have? What new strengths will I develop? I can't wait to find out!

To Jeannie: Congratulations!! I'm so glad I could share in your evening, and I wish you the best in your new position! Looking forward to seeing you at Zumba class! :)

To Kate: We are two weeks in! Woo hoo! Thanks for the many ways you have helped me to prepare me for this position. I'm looking forward to our next happy hour recap!

To YOU: What new skills are you learning at your job that you are excited about? Share them in the comments below!

Moving Past Mistakes

Help For The Homeless Dinner 2010
One of my favorite student-led events!

Working in higher ed, I've been blessed to play a small role in the lives of some AMAZING, AWE-INSPIRING STUDENTS. I tell them I need to start an autograph wall to get their signatures now (while I can still afford them)! They are all destined for GREAT THINGS!

As student affairs practitioners, I think we are innately wired to see the limitless potential in our students. No matter where they are, we challenge them to GO FURTHER. And it's very cool to watch them become leaders on their campus (and eventually in their communities).

Recently one of my former students was accused of making a mistake - a BIG one. And I've been reading some pretty awful statements on social media. This particular student definitely was one for the autograph wall - a natural leader, organized, determined. In the short time that I knew him he certainly affected his campus and his community for the better. And then, THE MISTAKE. In an instant, the many positive conversations that were once surrounding this student turned negative.

As humans, we are messy, fallible, and imperfect. We fall short again, and again (and again). And very rarely is it because we are bad people. Nope - it's just not that cut and dry. Think of a mistake that you've made or something you've done that has hurt someone else (and yes, we ALL have something). Now consider why you made the decision you did. How have you changed from that mistake? What have you learned?

Don't get me wrong. We should be held accountable for our mistakes. And if guilty, this student will face the ramifications of his actions for the rest of his life. But I refuse to believe that he is any less than he once was. That limitless potential? IT'S STILL THERE. 

Whether guilty or innocent, I'm still keeping his autograph on my wall. He's still learning. We all are. And that means that THIS STORY ISN'T OVER. For this student, and for all of us: We make mistakes, but mistakes don't make us. Let's not allow our mistakes to define us. Instead let's reach into our limitless potential, turn things around, and get back to doing those GREAT THINGS we are destined for!

To this particular student: I'm still cheering for you.

#studentaffairs #highered #studentlife #potential

Mile 11 and Mary Kay

The difference between try and triumph is a little umph. 

~Author Unknown

On Sunday morning Shawna and I met on City Island to run the Harrisburg Half Marathon, a beautiful 13.1 mile course along the Susquehanna River. I'll be honest - we did NOT train well for this one. Yeah, we would get a long run in most weeks, but our longest distance before the race was just under nine miles. Yet there we were (along with close to 1,000 other runners) heading toward a distant finish line.

We started strong using the time to gab (as normal)! We were excited to see friends and family cheering for us along the route (Thanks Bob, Alex, Chrystal, Vincent, Rebecca, Danielle, Jodi, Nate, and all who came out)! But around mile 11 we hit a long stretch of silent pavement - no homemade signs to distract us, no people cheering - and we began to get TIRED.

Mary Kay Ash, the brilliant entrepreneur behind Mary Kay skincare and cosmetics often quoted E. H. Harriman when she said, "Much good work is lost for the lack of a little more." Could it be that our dreams are within our reach if we only give just a little bit more?

Mary Kay gives the example of height. Let's say you have a man of average height (5'8'). If you take away 10% (a small amount, right?), he is now just over five feet. If you add 10%,  he's (as Mary Kay would say) "A GIANT."

Now let's think of our own lives. What difference would 10% make for us and our goals? What could we accomplish by giving just a little bit more?

When Shawna and I hit mile 11, we couldn't see the finish line. We were tired, and it would have been so easy to congratulate ourselves on what we had done and just stop there. BUT - all we had to do was give a little bit more and we could cross the finish line!

And so it is with so many of our goals. We get to a certain point and say "good enough." But let's not stop there! It's that final 10% - that final two miles - that can take us from "good enough" to GREAT. The finish line is right around the corner just waiting for us to arrive! 

What goal are you working toward? Where could an extra 10% take you? 

Yo, Adrienne!: Cunniff Edition

“We'll be Friends Forever, won't we, Pooh?' asked Piglet.

Even longer,' Pooh answered.” 

― A.A. Milne, Winnie-the-Pooh

Where it all began! Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Capital Region. 

When we meet someone new, we don't know where that connection will lead or how our lives might change. It could be the new student in our Zumba class, the person that sits next to us at the staff meeting, or a fellow volunteer. But one thing is certain... we will never be the same from that point forward. 

In 2006 I applied to be a Big Sister through the Big Brothers Big Sisters program. I was matched with a very tall 12-year-old "Little" named Vicky (who was probably a foot higher than me since the day I met her)! She was smart, creative, and talented! Together we would throw birthday parties for my dog, make cupcakes for the band's bake sale, and talk about the Harry Potter books (which I read just for her)!

Vicky's sister, Jessica, was also in the program and was matched to a Big named Nicki. Nicki came from Iowa and had endless optimism and a huge heart - she's impossible not to love! As a foursome, we'd take our Littles to corn mazes and bowling outings.

It wasn't long before our Big/Little adventures expanded to include my husband (Shawn) and Nicki's boyfriend (Andrew).  We went to football games at the high school (and later Kutztown U), weekend trips to Lake Raystown, dinners at Chili's, adventures at the Farm Show, and more - We created an extended Big Brothers Big Sisters family!

Celebrating with Mr. and Mrs. Cunniff!

This past weekend, we gathered again for a very special occasion. Nicki and Andrew got married! It's funny how people "randomly" come into your life. Without BBBS, we would have never met Nicki and Andrew. Yet in the few years that we've know them, they have become amazing friends.

On our best days, we shared laughs and snapchats over margaritas. On our worst days, they were cutting the line at Perry's funeral to give us hugs when we needed them most (a gesture I will never forget).

There is an old poem that says that people come into your life for a reason, a season, or a lifetime. On Saturday we watched two friends become husband and wife. Of course we're claiming the Cunniff's for the "lifetime" category, but we know they've already impacted us for forever.

To the newlyweds: Nicki and Andrew, CONGRATULATIONS! You were made for each other, and it meant so much to share in your best day ever! We are wishing you a beautiful life together (and we can't wait to visit you in New York)!

Who has touched your life in an unexpected way? Share it here - Then share your comment with them! 

Trash Pickup on the Puggy Thoman Highway

Celebrating 34!

On August 28th, I celebrated my 34th birthday! There are definitely a few things that I LOVE about birthdays...

1. BIRTHDAY CAKE. Yep, undeniably my favorite food. And I love that my birthday gives me an(other) excuse to get dessert! My sister-in-law even found the perfect candy (Hello BIRTHDAY CAKE M&M's)! Rita, you know me so well!

2. WISHES. Who needs candles in a cake?  I had to smile when one of my students broke out his Zippo lighter in my office at Central Penn College. He turned it into a pseudo-candle to wish me a happy birthday. Very memorable, Zach!

I also blew out a candle stuck in sticky rice and mango during my birthday dinner at Thai Palace (Thanks Shawn, Kimm and Jason, Blair and Jeremy, and Scott and Diane)! An awesome evening of food, wine, laughter, and stories!

3. GIFTS. Ok - I know that sounds awful, but keep reading! On Thursday night I joined the Halifax Hotties (my incredible rockstar Zumba students) at an AWESOME '80's ZUMBA BIRTHDAY PARTY! We rocked our jelly bracelets and leg warmers and danced to The Donnas, Paula Abdul, and Madonna. And at the end of class, the Hotties gave me an amazing birthday gift - $173 for the ALS Association in memory of my brother-in-law, Perry (who also shares my birthday). I know their generous gift is going to help find a treatment (and eventually a cure) for ALS. I can't think of a better gift than that. 

FAMILY & FRIENDS. Whether at Thai Palace with friends, dancing with my Zumba divas, or watching Ghostbusters (one of my favorite movies) at the theater with Shawn, spending time with friends and family tops my list of things that I LOVE about birthdays. And although I didn't get to see all of you in person, please know that every text, Facebook post, card, treat, or birthday wish made this year truly memorable! Thanks to all of you for making my 34th so special! 

#teamperry #zumbalove #birthdaycakeaddict 

Good Morning Baltimore

Taking our cues from Tracy Turnblad, the heroine in HAIRSPRAY:

Good morning Baltimore

Every day's like an open door

Every night is a fantasy

Every sound's like a symphony

On Saturday, a bus load of friends and family departed for Baltimore in true Tracy Turnblad style - ready to seize the day! 

The day went fast, but it was full! We visited the National Aquarium and saw turtles, jellyfish, and sharks. We even had some fun in the gift shop (see the pic of my husband, the "shark," below). 

 

Afterward we went to Ripley's Believe It Or Not Odditorium where we saw shrunken heads, replicas of the crown jewels, pictures of Justin Bieber made entirely from candy, and more! I had to snap a pic of the Zoltar machine (Remember the movie BIG with Tom Hanks? One of my faves!)!

 

But this trip wasn't just about having a blast in B'more. We had a mission... to raise money for the American Cancer Society Make Strides Against Breast Cancer. According to the American Cancer Society, the chance of a woman having invasive breast cancer some time during her life is about 1 in 8. Out of the 26 on our small bus, two were breast cancer survivors - a strong testament for why we need to keep working toward a cure. Our trip on Saturday brought us $147 closer to that goal. 

Throughout the fall we will continue to raise funds under our team name, Zumba Fitness Instructors and Friends. On Saturday, October 18th, we'll come together on Harrisburg's City Island for an early morning tailgate party followed by the American Cancer Society Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 5K walk. We'll be joined by 6,000 participants who are dressed in pink and passionate about the cause. An unforgettable event! Will you join us? See the links below for ways that you can get involved!

You can help! 

MAKE A DONATION

JOIN OUR TEAM

VIEW AND SHARE THE FACEBOOK EVENT

#makingstrides #cancer #baltimore #hairspray #zumbalove

Zumba Instructor Convention 2014!

Home sweet home after another amazing year at the ZUMBA Instructor Convention in Orlando, FL. 

I shared the past four days with over 6,000 members of my Zumba family. We learned new choreo for our classes, snapped selfies with our fave Zumba celebs, and danced (A LOT)! It's impossible to express how much this trip means to me or how much I learn each year, but I wanted to share my top takeaways from 2014... 

1. I learned that our Zumba Fitness classes are the best medicine for a bad day. In our opening session, we had the opportunity to listen to Harvard's most popular professor, Tal Ben-Shahar. His expertise? HAPPINESS! And guess what he told us - there is scientific proof that dancing (like we do in our Zumba Fitness classes) improves our mood and makes us HAPPIER! 

The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that 16 million adults in the U.S. had at least one episode of depression in 2012. Healthline shares that one in ten Americans will be affected by depression in their lifetime. Yet a powerful antidote is found in dance and movement! Some studies show dance and movement to be as effective as prescription medications! Zumba is particularly good at this because the moves are simple, repetitive, and allow students to be successful! Learn more about happiness from Tal Ben-Shahar. 

ZES Donna Giffen

2. I saw my end goal. During Convention, I has the opportunity to participate in a number of master classes with some of the best Zumba instructors around. Seeing instructors like Steve Boedt, Donna Giffen, and Pepper Von gives me a glimpse of how good we can really be! But these instructors are not amazing because of their dance ability (although they are great dancers!). They are amazing because of their ability to teach, lead, perform, and allow their students to succeed! It's not about what THEY are doing on the stage, but what they are enabling YOU to do on the floor! 

Seeing them in action inspires me to keep working and improving my own skills, so I did something very scary... I signed up for a personalized feedback session and taught a song in front of 30 Zumba Instructors and two ZES (Zumba Education Specialists), Donna Giffen and Daniela Cesnekova. End result? The group was super supportive and I walked away with practical things I can do to improve my teaching (like closing my fingers to add power to my Beto Shuffle)! Bye Bye frog hands!

ZES Pepper Von

3. I joined a movement to change the world. I've said this before, but I truly believe that Zumba Fitness is an incredible force for the greater good. During my Saturday morning master class, Pepper Von closed the session with a simple but powerful challenge - to put out one positive thought each day. Imagine if all 6,000 Convention attendees commit to it, and then encourage their students to do the same? Zumba Fitness has no geographic boundaries, and our influence can be worldwide. I'm taking the challenge. Will you? 

But it didn't stop there. We've all been seeing videos of our friends and family dumping ice water on their heads (and perhaps praying we don't get called out to do the same) as part of the #icebucketchallenge to raise awareness and funds for the ALS Association! While I was in Orlando, I was tagged and had 24 hours to either donate or dump ice water on my head! What else could I do, but grab our hotel ice bucket and head to the Hyatt's outdoor fountain (Watch the video)! And as part of our closing ceremony, some our our Zumba faves - CEO and co-founder Alberto Perlman, celebrity instructors Gina Grant and Kass Martin, and the man himself Beto Perez - took the challenge on stage! Zumba love in action!

It was another amazing year at #zincon2014! Can't wait to put my new knowledge and inspiration to use in the coming year! August 12-15, 2015 is already on my calendar (and if you are an instructor and didn't make it this year, put it in on your calendar, too! I want you there with me!). 

#zincon2014 #icebucketchallenge #strikeoutals #zumbalove #teamperry