Monday, January 26, 2009

Embarking on a new journey

It's 5:30 a.m., the morning of our first day of the program, and I've been awake since 4. I woke up thinking of what's about to happen, getting so excited about the gift I'm about to begin giving myself, and worrying about post-program failure. So I decided to get productive and begin re-reading the book, The Martha's Vineyard Diet Detox, 21 Pounds in 21 Days.
I've been mentally preparing over the last month for this journey and began packing and getting organized a week ago. I've had two glorious "Last Suppers" , one with David on Saturday and one with Christine last night. And finally, I drove a completely packed car with Samantha Jo (our beloved pooch) yesterday from our home in Redding, Connecticut, to the ferry which transported us to Vineyard Haven, Martha's Vineyard.
I can hardly believe I am here and am so grateful to the critical cast who is making this opportunity a reality. My fiance, David, who is backing me up 100% and is the head cheerleader of "Team Anita". There is no way I would have done this without his blessing. My maid of honor and business colleague, Christine, who introduced me to the whole concept of cleansing and will be my partner in crime. Roni DeLUZ, the founder of Martha's Vineyard Holistic Retreat, the author of the book, and our program sherpa. And James Hester, a regular cleanser, the co-author of the book, and our coach.
I feel the weight of responsibility to myself and those just mentioned to be the model "detoxer", carry forth after leaving the Vineyard and spread the word, and prove that this hopeless case can get her act together.
This on-line journal will capture my thoughts, feelings, and experiences over the next 21 days and beyond.
Let the games begin!

4 comments:

  1. I am just so darn proud of my beautiful bride-to-be!! Good luck, Anita darling, and stay strong! Don't forget to feed our beloved pooch!

    Love you,
    David

    ReplyDelete
  2. I am just so darn proud of my beautiful bride-to-be!! Good luck, Anita darling, and stay strong! Don't forget to feed our beloved pooch!
    Love you,
    David

    ReplyDelete
  3. Anita & Christine-

    I am so proud of you both. Anita, you are such a good writer. You have me laughing out loud. It's like having you on the couch across from me making me bust a gut.

    What a wonderful gift you have given yourself. Like most thiings, attitude makes all the difference, and yours is spot on.

    I am sorry I have been so unaccessable lately. We had another round of layoffs, new boss, larger territory/responsibilites, travel, travel and more travel...you know the drill. Honestly though, I am relieved to simply have a job at this juncture in the economy. So, I will have to live the "clean and restful" lifestyle vicariously through you and your blog.

    Did I read correctly? Fianace? Girl, we have some catching up to do. I am thrilled for you both. David is one lucky man, and you are a lucky girl. I can't wait to catch up.

    While you are reflecting on how much you have to be grateful for, also give some time to praise yourself. Anita, just as this retreat is a gift to yourself, you are just that, a gift, to so many that know you well. I consider myself blessed to have you as my friend.

    Please give Christine a big hug for me and let her know that I miss her too. I am sending lots of love to you both. Enjoy your remaining weeks and keep us posted on your progress.

    Much Love to you Both-
    Shannon

    ReplyDelete
  4. Anita & Christine-

    I am so proud of you both. Anita, you are suc a good writer. You have me laughing out loud. It's like having you on the couch across from me making me bust a gut.

    What a wonderful gift you have given yourself. Like most thiings, attitude makes all the difference and yours is spot on.

    I am sorry I have been so unaccessable lately. We had another round of layoffs, new boss, larger territory/responsibilites, travel, travel and more travel...you know the drill. Honestly, though I am relieved to simply have a job at this juncture in the economy. So, I will have to live the "clean and restful" lifestyle vicariously through you and your blog.

    Did I read correctly? Fianace? Girl, we have some catching up to do. I am thrilled for you both. David is one lucky man, and you are a lucky girl. I can't wait to catch up.

    While you are reflecting on how much you have to be grateful for, also give some time to praise yourself. Anita, just as this retreat is a gift to yourself, you are just that, a gift, to so many that know you well. I consider myself blessed to have you as my friend.

    Please give Christine a big hug for me and let her know that I miss her too. I am sending lots of love to you both. Enjoy yoour remaining weeks and keep us posted on your progress.

    Much Love to you Both-
    Shannon

    ReplyDelete