Work-shtuff. Researching and writing, while supporting my habit with freelance design. Then there’s mommyhood with all the driving, scheduling, meeting, cooking, cleaning, teaching, disciplining, and entertaining. So much happens each day that I often find myself wondering, “Where does all the time go?”
Streamlining/Bringing Order. Really, I am trying.
Physical Fitness. I love food too much to go on a diet, so I have challenged myself to be more conscientious about what I’m eating and portion size. Zumba and yoga have been helping me tone up and boost my metabolism. The other day I saw a little definition in the upper arms, though not as nice as Michelle Obama’s. And under certain very special lighting conditions, my abdominus rectus makes an appearance—a 2 pack with a hint of more, nothing quite special, but clearly a start of something. And for those days I’m not motivated to get to the gym, I have my exercise DVDs, the Wii, and of course, my guilty conscience.
Yum-yums. One of my side projects is working on a Korean cookbook for American-Koreans like myself who crave Mom’s home cooking and want to carry on traditions. It’s fine getting the premade panchan (side dishes) at the Korean grocery store or to dine at a Korean restaurant, but it’s never quite the same—or as good as Mom’s. My hope is that this book will help give some kind of foundation to Korean cuisine.
I also have a new challenge—to try out the recipes in my cookbook and magazine collection and see if I can expand the Princess’s palate. It may require a lot of baking on my part to bribe her with dessert to taste the new meal plan. Or, I might try the tough love approach—”Eat what’s in front of you or go hungry. It’s your choice.” The trick is getting the “weak link” to go along with the plan, too.
Writing. NaNoWriMo (National Novel Writing Month) is around the corner. I am trying to decide on which storyline to work on. Maybe this year I’ll reach 50k words at the end of November.
Reading. Nonfiction—books on publishing, the writing process, simplifying one’s life. Not enough hours in my day…
Hi Sophia, Ellen sent me your site and I’m blown away. So complete, honest and thoughtful. I’m really looking forward to spending more time reading your posts and am really looking forward to the cookbook. Now maybe I’ll be able to cook something delicious instead of buying the premades… I didn’t know that your daughter has a nut allergy. I’m allergic to tree nuts and coconut products. If you’re trying to get the coconut based products out of your house (used as a popular foaming agent-their pervasive), I have a list of the 50 chemical names for coconut derived products and I’m happy to forward it if you if you like. ANyWay, we’re off to the H for their Kimchi Jiggae (my new breakfast staple). Ahnyoung (sp?)! Please keep in touch, Jacquie