Inspirational Women Series #5 - Deidre Tavera

This month another truly inspiring woman who's passion is deeply rooted in improving peoples' lives as well as communities.  She says she has seen first hand the affect one person can make...

She is currently holding a director position with many responsibilities  and has a loving and supportive family - read below her story, her philosophy and how she juggles it all...

Can you give me a few sentences describing your current job and your prior experience as a non-for-profit consultant?   

I am currently Director of Strategic Planning and Development for Hartford Public Schools where I oversee institutional advancement activities including strategic and program planning, internal communications, district events, as well as, fund development and grants management. Prior to joining Hartford Public Schools, I owned a management consulting firm and, over an 8 year period, worked with over 30 diverse nonprofit organizations facilitating planning and designing implementation recommendations related to board governance, strategy, fundraising, operations, and organizational design.  Perhaps my most formative work experience in the nonprofit sector took place at The Bushnell Center for the Performing Arts where, over a 15 year period, I worked in various areas of the organization including marketing-communications, education, human resources, finance, programming, facility and general operations.

You have worked in non-profit for over 20 years - what drew you to this sector initially and what has kept you there?

My undergraduate degree is in psychology and through both my studies and my community activities during college (e.g. Big Brothers/Big Sisters) I became increasingly interested in the work of non-profit organizations because of the impact they have on people’s lives and the larger community. I just knew that in order to feel fulfilled, my work would need to align with my values and contribute to society in some way.  In addition, my parents both worked in education. My mom was a teacher and my dad an elementary school principal. Their work was very important to them and I saw firsthand that one person can make a significant difference in their communities.   

What do you see as the current opportunities (and/or needs) in your specific not-for-profit sector?

I am so very fortunate to be a part of the exciting school reform work at Hartford Public Schools.
Hartford Public Schools is one of a small group of districts across the country that has undertaken a comprehensive, strategic and bold reform effort to turnaround a poor performing district and significantly improving student achievement. Clearly, there is a major need in our country to focus our attention and resources on education – especially urban education. I believe that this needs to be a national priority not only for our children today but for the future health and success of our country.   

Which have been your most rewarding projects and why?

There are so many…I really like working on team-based projects.  There is nothing better than scoping out a challenge or opportunity to pursue with a group of staff members, colleagues or volunteers. Over a period of days, weeks or months, you can see the team form into a cohesive unit and successfully move the project forward.  In my early career, I served as a project leader on a community-wide fundraising event to raise awareness and support for local AIDS organizations.  Working with a diverse group of arts organizations, artists, community leaders, community based and faith organizations, and several local unions to pull off a major musical and theatrical event was one of the most challenging projects I have ever worked on. On that night when dancers, musicians, and actors came together to celebrate our community and to change perceptions about people with AIDs – it was worth it all!

What resources helped get you where you are now?

I have always been blessed to have wonderful mentors in my life. Most have been women and served both as advisors and friends. As a result, I now mentor young women when I have the opportunity. I think it is very important to help others maneuver through the world. It is incredible how much we learn over the years and this knowledge can be helpful to younger professionals. 

What do you find yourself doing during down time at work?    

I have three children, Kate (19), Evan (15) and Emma (11) – spending time with them and my husband, Frank, is where you’ll find me during off work hours.  I also volunteer and currently serve as Chair of the Women and Girls’ Fund of the Main Street Community Foundation in Bristol, CT and President of the St. Michael’s College Alumni Board.

What is your motto or a philosophy that you live by?

“Whatever it takes…”

How do you balance being a wife, mother and professional?  Any tips?

 
Exercise for stress relief and energy, sleep at least 7 (prefer 8) hours a night and have a supportive spouse/significant other/confidant who can help keep you in balance. Oh, and a good cup of coffee every morning!

Inspirational Women Series #4 - Andrea Ferry

I've had the pleasure of knowing Andrea for some years now.  I met her through my sister who she use to work with.  Andrea is an immediate inspiration to many of us who have known her.  I really enjoy her enthusiastic personality and energy for life.  Andrea is driven and tough yet personable. She was perfect to interview for this series.  After reading a bit about her, you'll see why...

·        You currently work in finance at Lincoln Financial Group – can you tell how us long you’ve been there and a bit about your position?    

I have been working for Lincoln Financial Group for 13 years and have had several positions ranging from customer service to sales to relationship management. My current position involves managing projects for the relationship management team.  My team works with consultants who help plan sponsors (institutions) look for the best fit for their retirement (401k/403b) plan.

·        You also were a national level figure competitor and ranked powerlifter in the past.  Who or what inspired you to participate and compete in this sport?

When I was 26, I met a man (Fairfax Hackley) who worked with Arnold Schawrzenager back in the past and said I had the shape for figure shows and that I should try it out.  He was involved in the Fitness/Figure/Bodybuilding Circuit so he had set me up with a lot of introductions.  Once I started winning regionally, I decided that I wanted to compete at the National Level, which was even more challenging.  That took the competition to a whole new level.

What were your proudest moments during this time?

My proudest moment at a regional was winning first place and overall in the NPC Empire State Kim Klein Fitness/Figure Championship.  The second proudest moment was making the “top 5” selection at the NPC Pittsburgh Show. 

Where there any particular challenges you faced?  

The biggest struggle for any competitor is the constant dedication to dieting and training. Everything that you put in your mouth was weighed, measured and on a schedule (also, there is no drinking alcohol).  The longer I competed, the more critical I was of my body and sometimes that can affect your mindset and confidence.

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Can you share some of your achievements over the years in this sport?

§  2002 LA Fitness Bencfh Press Champion

§  2003 North American Bodybuilding championships – Womens Shape and Figure – 1^st place

§  2005 GNC Metrx Pharmagenex Worldwide NPCRochester Figure Show – 1st Place

§  2006 NPC National Figure championships – 3^rd place

§  2006 Jim Rockwell/Powerhouse Gym Rochester Bodybulding Fitness and Figure Championships – 1^st place

§  Philadelphia Championship Greenwood Classic – 2^nd Place

§  2007 NPC Pittsburgh 4^th Place

§  2007 NPC Gaspari Nutrition Junior USA 5^th Place

§  WNPC – 1^st place 148 weight class – September 2010

§  WNPF – 1^st place 132 weight class – December 2010 (Deadlift 320 lbs, squat 290 lbs, bench 150 lbs)

·        Wow, that is pretty impressive!  For those of us who barely have enough energy to get off the couch, how did you manage juggling bodybuilding, working at Lincoln Financial and personal training?

        To be honest, it was a lot of work. I would do my cardio from 5:00am to 5:45am, go to work from 8:00am to 5:00pm, go home to train myself (another 45 minutes of lifting and another 45 minutes of cardio) and then train clients afterwards.  Then I would go to bed and start all over again the next day.  I had such a drive to help people be healthy and feel good about themselves.

·         And now you are currently a nutritional consultant.  How did you transition into this?  

            I started learning a lot about nutrition when I studied under my last coach for four years John Sheaffer.  I saw how he was able to transform his client’s bodies and became so intrigued that I started sitting in on all of his client consultations.  Overtime, I was able to take what I learned as a figure competitor, power lifter and trainer and apply it to the average person.  It is amazing; the smallest changes in your nutrition can have a HUGE positive effect.  I saw people struggle with “diets” so I changed the way I spoke about getting in shape and eating better by giving people a nutrition plan and performance goals, versus purely aesthetic goals.  Aesthetic goals are simply a byproduct.  I also do not let my clients get on the scale – we use a measuring tape measure progress by how their clothes fit.   There is so much information in the market that people get overwhelmed – I keep it simple for my clients.

·         How would you describe your personality?

I would describe myself as outgoing, caring and absolutely loving life. I love helping people feel good about their bodies and lighting them up inside... I love to make people smile and laugh.

Who are two closest people to you and why?

The two people closest to me would be my parents (I count them as one!) and my best friend from college Andrea Clidy (yes we have the same name). My Mom and Dad always believe in me and support whatever dream I am focusing on. 

Andrea and I have share a love for fitness and health and are in the process of making that passion a national, and eventually international, business.

         What are your current passions in life?  What motivates you?

Helping people feel good naked motivates me to provide my nutritional advice at a larger scale then it is today. There is nothing better than helping people feel good every day of their lives whether it is through nutrition, physical training or life coaching.  I like to surround myself with positive people who want more in life than to just focus on themselves. I attend inspirational seminars and try to find ways to help people live a more balanced life. Now that I have put my figure and powerlifting days behind me, it is time to give that knowledge to others and serve a greater purpose in life.

An Amazingly Inspirational Woman - Thanks to Andrea and Enjoy your Spirit for Living!

Just in Time...Apple Pie for the Holidays!

Just thawing out the apples to make a few apple pies for Christmas dinner this weekend.  Every fall season, my husband and I trek upstate New York to go apple picking.  Honestly, because there are so many great local farms, we love buying seasonal produce there when we can rather than organic from the grocery store.  Obviously, it feels great to support local farmers who are typically still from generations of farmers and are passionate about what they do.  There are no large paychecks, no big glory but the farmers I met care about the land and growing wholesome food. 

There are many articles including below on eating local if you’re interested in learning more:

·              Farm fresh: the health benefits of buying local produce

        How Does Eating Locally Grown Food Help the Environment?

   

This year we went to Warwick to an apple festival with fun music and good BBQ!  So of course we go crazy and end up picking many more apples than two adults could possible eat in a few weeks…and even taking apples for snacks at work as well as making a few pies, hardly makes a dent in the pile.

So we resorted this year to freezing…did you know you can freeze them to make delicious pies months later?  Just wash your unused whole, unpeeled apples and freeze them on a tray. Transfer to freezer bags once frozen.

Oh I’m so ready to smell those sweet apples and spices – I found a couple recipes that I now have to choose from….and get these pies in the oven in the next couple hours!!  Wish me luck…

Homemade Organic Apple Pie with Butter Crust  

Apple Pie with Cheese Crust  

Apple Pie by Grandma 

Enjoy the holidays with friends and family and enjoy your Spirit for Living!  

Inspirational Women Series #3 - Sarah McBrair

This month, in the spirit of meeting new people, I'm excited to highlight Sarah McBrair.  I had the pleasure of meeting her at the Young Designers Market in New York City this past summer.  We sat back to back selling our wares to locals and tourists alike.  And mid way through, I noticed her lovely jewelry - very classy.  So being a bit nosy, I leaned over to introduce myself and from there we started chatting.  It was exciting to hear about her endeavors as an entrepreneur doing something she really love.  As I continue down the road to my dreams, it is just the inspiration you need to be surrounded by.  When you follow your dreams, you always need advocates, trustworthy partners and true friends.


Can you tell us a bit about your business, Love of Pretty?

Love of Pretty is a unique, handmade, fashionable gemstone jewelry company. We specialize in “Design Your Own Jewelry” working with women to create custom pieces of jewelry. We take pride in hand-picking our materials and designing perfectly pretty pieces.

The purpose of  the brand is meant to be an easy way to make women feel pretty and give them an easy new look.

What inspired you to launch your business?

I was a marketing professional in the corporate world for seven years and knew I always wanted to do something for myself.  After designing jewelry as a hobby and passion for many years, it just clicked as the right business for me.

I have always loved to help my friends accessorize.  I love to base designs off of people’s personalities. The “Design Your Own” component of my business is my favorite. It is easy to find the perseverance and motivation when you choose an avenue you naturally love! Even when I am watching movies or just out an about I just stare down people’s jewelry…I can’t help it.

Why do you love doing what you do?  

It is the feeling I get when I see a customer’s eyes light up or have such a genuine reaction to the way they look when they try on a piece of jewelry they love is another one of my favorite parts of this whole experience.

I was recently at a holiday show in Old Lyme CT and I met a woman who you could tell just needed a little pick-me-up. She tried on a chunky pearl and citrine necklace.  When she looked in the mirror she smiled and her whole face lit up. It was the perfect necklace for her.  Right away other women looking at the jewelry made remarks about the necklace “That looks so pretty” or “that necklace was made for you” it’s moments like these that I get such a rush and feel so satisfied that I am genuinely helping women feel their best, I love it!

What challenges did you face in the beginning?

Everything took longer then I would have liked. When you start a business you want all your ideas up and running right away.  I have learned now everything takes time….but is worth the wait!

How do you define success?

Success is happiness. Being happy in your current position and reminding yourself all the time that is the most important thing in life.

What is a typical weekday like for you? 

Write a blog, post a Facebook update, sprint around New York City to find new materials, design new jewelry, take photos, send out orders….repeat!

When you are not running around…What do you do to unwind? 

My husband Brad and I have a three year old Gold Retriever, 'Russell', I pretty much give him all my attention!  We take two to three walks a day….well when it’s nice out.


Thanks Sarah for being an inspiration to those of us out there who are starting a business, are growing a business or dreaming of it!  Thank you for sharing your Spirit!!

Love of Pretty is starting a December “Holiday Helpers” campaign.  We design, we create, we gift wrap, and we ship directly to you! Enter “LOVELOP" at checkout for a special 10% off your entire purchase www.loveofpretty.com. 

Weekend Interrupted...

Now into the lovely season of fall on the east coast, I planned to write about my outdoor adventures thus far, most recently near my hometown at the “Scarecrow Festival” at Peddler’s Village in PA.  Wait, where was this Peddler’s Village in the recent Huffington Post article of the best places to watch the leaves change? 

But something closer to my heart changed my direction for this month’s post.


This past weekend, my husband and I, in PA for that festival, were spending some quality time with my family. Sunday morning, another sunny and promising weekend day, the whole lot of us was headed out to brunch. My mother, my husband, my sister and my lovely and adorable three year old niece and my four year old nephew scattered around, getting dressed, ready to go out and enjoy a nice feast.

While we took turns taking showers, my sister and I were watching her son Erron (pronounced Aaron), play with his toy trucks. Even as the TV loudly sounded off the voices of Dora and Diego, we noticed Erron’s chest was going in and out rapidly, like he just ran a sprint. Erron has had trouble breathing since close to birth but hasn’t been officially diagnosed with asthma or any respiratory issue yet. Nonetheless, the doctor had my sister get a nebulizer for the often random cases where he had trouble breathing.

After the treatment, he came back to watch TV. My sister and I again plopped in the comfy sofa chairs to catch up on life. Suddenly, we saw Erron laid out on the floor while being sick. And afterwards, again, he huffed and puffed, unable to breathe normally. This time the whizzing was increasingly pronounced.

Now I’ve had acute asthma since 14 months old. So I should be used to this scene. My sister was the lucky one who never acquired asthma.

Not sure how many of us either know , have a loved one, or themselves have asthma, but even as a long time suffer, I never get use to attacks. Especially when it is someone so young. And my beloved nephew.

Also, I never know when the right time to go to the hospital is. When I was young, my mother had tried many homeopathic or natural treatments well before considering the hospital. Anyone with asthma breath steam, have their back massaged or drink caffeine? Well most of the time it helped relax my lungs a bit but I’d still end up getting a dose of that yucky liquid they used before inhalers. And my mother would just stay up with my night after night trying to make me as comfortable as possible.

Erron, was immediately taken to our local hospital after the nebulizer failed to even relive his asthma for even 30 minutes. I was a little skeptical still because even now, I never go, I just take prednisone pills which my doctor has prescribed for me for close to 20 years. I, imagine however, that those may be too harsh for such a young person. And again, you never know in a young child so best to take him in.

And I’m glad we did, the doctor at the local hospital put in an order to have him transferred to CHOP. Worried again, although CHOP has an amazing reputation.

At this time, asthma has no cure. According to research, approximately 2 out of 3 children with asthma grow out of asthma as adults. I, unfortunately was the 1 of 3 that do not. Diagnosed at 14 months – acute asthma – once triggered, to this day, can have shortness of breath and a tight chest for weeks.

Erron, I pray, will be the 2 out of 3 that do. He spent only a night at CHOP and then was released to my sister. They officially diagnosed him with asthma and set up my sister with a ‘parents with asthmatic children’ class as well as a prescription for a maintenance inhaler.

I, myself, have been doing the same thing for so many years; I haven’t even read, discussed or experienced any new products and/or options one has to help maintain asthma. So I’m starting with a fresh perspective to what others are doing – both naturally and by prescription as well as support groups.

Anyway, that discussion and my findings will be for another month.

In the meantime, stay well and enjoy family, friends and your Spirit for Living…

Break Out the Bubbly, a Pen, and a Spreadsheet: Celebrating Spirit for Living’s 1st Anniversary and the Power of Setting Goals

Happy Anniversary to us! Can you believe it? Spirit for Living is celebrating its first anniversary on September 9, 2011. Believe me when I tell you—it feels amazing to reach this business/personal milestone. Spirit for Living was a huge dream for me long before I got it off the ground. I craved a creative outlet that channeled my love of fitness into empowering women all around the world. Now here we are at the end of successful year numero uno!

In honor of this occasion, I’ve put together some simple but potentially life-changing advice about goal-setting. From communicating with friends to setting deadlines, these are the key principles that helped get Spirit for Living to its first birthday.

1) Believe In Your Idea

Achieving your goals is, in my opinion, so important to your personal wellbeing. I think it’s a vital human activity to set goals, chase them, and taste success. Experience has taught me that one of the most important parts of reaching your goals is to stay positive about who you are and the attainability of your dreams. Every day you’ve got to choose to believe in yourself and your idea. And you’ve got to work your butt off (just saying!).

2) Be Specific

Every year people make the same resolutions (check out this great goals infographic here). Drink less, lose weight, go back to school, get a better job, ditch the stress, tackle debt, etc. Those are all well and good, but what would be even better is to be very, very SPECIFIC. The more intentional you are about your goals, the more likely you are to reach them. For example, “I want to start selling my jewelry on Etsy” is better than “I’d like to make more money,” because the first statement is a PLAN and the second is a WISH.

3) Plan Like Your Life Depends on It (Because It Does)

Planning is what it all boils down to. Without a plan your goals are simply wishes. Transforming them into successes depends on how good your plan is and how fiercely you stick to it. Your best friend in planning is a journal. Use it to brainstorm, strategize, keep notes, and plan, plan, plan. Draw up a spreadsheet of specific steps and deadlines.

4) Dream Smart

Have you ever walked on a tightrope before? Well, get ready to if you want to achieve your goals. Setting and reaching goals can be a crazy balancing act. Especially when it comes to being realistic about your goals. On the one hand, you want to dream big. You have the potential to do great things and you should do them! On the other hand, you should realize that it takes time to change the world, i.e. you may not be solving world hunger this year (but you can put a dent in it!). So dream smart. Allow yourself a realistic amount of time for each step of your journey.

5) Missed Deadlines are Not the End of the World

If your deadlines come and go and your dreams are yet unrealized—don’t fret. Don’t cry or pull out any one of the precious hairs on your head. Take a breath and reflect. What obstacles did you encounter? How can you shift your plan to allow for more time? How can you avoid similar obstacles in the future? Keep journaling. You’ll get there.

6) What Your Friends and Your Bra Have In Common: You Need Their Support

Remember, no savvy businesswoman is an island. Keep your friends and family in the loop. Explain your big idea so they catch the vision, too. You need your support system to encourage you when you’re down and push you further than you would push yourself.

7) When Your Brain is Fuzzy, Google It

If you find yourself at a fork in the road, take time to educate yourself. On your journey to achieving your dreams you’ll become an expert in your niche. I was fascinated when it came time to decide which fabrics to use in the Spirit for Living active wear line. Bamboo, soy, hemp-- learning the details about how they are farmed and how their fibers are woven into eco-friendly fabrics was incredibly interesting to me because it intersected with something I am very passionate about: sustainability. When you’re confused about something, that’s a clue that there is something there for you to learn.

Okay you strong, courageous, beautiful women! Break out your journals and get cracking! We have a world to change! Please accept my biggest THANK YOU for supporting Spirit for Living over the past year. I love creating comfortable clothing that sees you through the challenges and adventures of your day. I cannot wait to see what great things unfold in year number two!

Inexpensive Summer Fun: Losing the Stress, Finding your Family

You work 60+ hours a week. You leave before the sun peaks over the horizon, and you come home long after the sun has returned to slumber. You eat cold leftovers, kiss your already sleeping children, and settle into bed next to a spouse that hasn’t actually spoken to you in 11 hours.

You’re thankful for the job you have, because so many are losing theirs, but you aren’t so thankful for the long hours, thankless achievements, and all the time spent away from those you love most in the world.

Does it have to be that way? Honestly, sometimes it does. Unfortunately, if you don’t work, you can’t really support those you love, but working takes you away from them as well.

So what you can do? Have you considered taking a vacation? Mind blowing isn’t it? What a truly novel idea- taking time off work and actually spending time with your family!

Do vacations have to mean two weeks of sun and accrued credit card debt? No, it could just be a weekend spent dedicated to having fun with your family. Not all vacations or family days have to empty the bank account- and here are a few ideas that will help you de-stress from work while soaking up the love of your family.

Backyard BBQs

One of the most important things that families should do together is eat. Food has brought families together for as long as man has been on earth. You’ve seen the commercials for Bushs’ Baked Beans, Oscar Mayer hot dogs, Johnsonville Brats, Kool-Aid, and other summer fun time treats…everyone is outside in the backyard, jumping into the swimming pool, piling delicious food onto their plates, and just enjoying their time together. 

You can do that too. A quick trip to your local grocery store for yummy BBQ favorites, a trip to Wal-Mart for fun sprinkler attachments or pool toys, and then everyone gathers in the backyard for family time that doesn’t have a huge price tag.

Dad gets to wear the “Kiss the Cook” BBQ apron, mom gets to don the big sun hat, and the kids get to try and make it poolside without slipping on the puddles of sunscreen they’re leaving in their wake. Fun times had by all, and the only thing you’ll have to stress about is making sure the burgers don’t burn.

A Lark in the Park

Never underestimate or overlook the simple family trip to the local park. Public parks or state parks are FREE. That means that you can take scenic hikes, swim in lakes, BBQ your favorite summer foods, watch as the kids play on the jungle gym (you could even join them if you’d like), and even take a family bike ride all without pulling out your wallet one single time.

Splish Splash

Two words that spell ‘awesome family memories’ and ‘inexpensive family fun’…water…park. Yes, those two words can also spell heat stroke, sun burn, and junk food overload, but family fun always carries with it the risk of unpleasant or uncomfortable events.

There are hundreds of water parks all over the US. Chances are that there is one only a few hours’ drive from where you live. That means that you can pack up the kids in the morning, take a drive into the afternoon, and spend the hottest part of the day cooling off in the waters of Wild Water Kingdom or Six Flags Water World. If you really want to make good use of the water park, you can buy a family summer pass for relatively cheap and spend every weekend there. Or, if you just want to make a single trip, you can stock up on coupons from local kids friendly eateries or libraries and get money off of each ticket you purchase.

Another way to save some money on your family water park fun is to bring your food with you. Most water parks don’t care that you bring food in with you, and this allows you to purchase lunch items at a big discount at the grocery store, and save the money you would have spent on overpriced concession items.

Make sure to take a lot of pictures, so that when the work week begins again, you have those precious memories to hold you over until you can get home to your family again.

Green Thumb Fun

One of the great things about summer is that it’s the perfect time for planting. If you have the space and don’t have an aversion to getting a little dirty, you can gather the family together, plan and then plant a summer garden. Not only does this give you time together as a family, you are also creating something that will continue to give back to the family over the rest of the year. Who doesn’t want to bite into a sweet garden tomato that was planted by loving hands in their own garden?

Fresh vegetables add flavor and fun to the dinner table, and it promotes healthy eating and sustainability.

You love your family, and working to provide for them is important, but so is taking the time out of your life to spend with those that mean the most. It doesn't have to cost much money, and what it provides in memories, shared time together, and fun is a price far above what any one person could pay in their lifetime.

So go out there and enjoy your Spirit for Living!