When you have a lot to do, just remember two things

This is a Russian anecdote, there are so many, and this one rings true in any language.  All you have to do when you don't know where to begin is just 1. start and 2. finish!

The OCTOBER CHALLENGE starts tomorrow, I asked for details yesterday, let's see your commitment, focus, and clear vision to your goal.  What I would also love is a before picture, I will have a file with all of your details, so you can just forget about it and just do it, start walking, start cutting out one thing that is your vice, what are you committed to for the OCTOBER CHALLENGE?

I am committed to put a dent into the 30 pounds I want to lose, and to say bye bye to my belly, loved you with a baby inside, but now I am done!

So excited, as I am writing I am talking to my friends all over the country about the challenge, it will be so fun to support each other and do it together.

Next Monday I will be leading a workout at La Cienega Park, there is a great track and workout area and I will bring my trampoline!  I am trying to accommodate all schedules so next Monday will be at 1:30pm.

This week, Thursday October 3, Stroller Walk with Baby and Workout, La Cienega Park, 10:30am.

I am trying out different times, so I will update you each day and each week on that weeks activities.  Get together in your hometowns and start a walking group, or even workout together to your favorite video, just do something :)

These workouts are exclusively for Ladies and only $5, it will include nutrition consultations, bodyfat testing, and making a plan to reach your goals.

Gentlemen if you are interested in nutrition consultations or bodyfat testing please reach out, and I can refer you to workouts in the area as well.

Email your photo and measurements to coachyulia@gmail.com or send it to me in Facebook, and I would love a before picture, they really tell the story of the journey, even if we don't see it right away.

I am so excited, there is so much to say, but I think I have said it so far, looking forward to your submissions, and to get started on our Healthy Active Lifestyle.

Coach Yulia


Love Yourself to get Fit For Life



 

Parenting Tips

I went to the most amazing class the other day about parenting and I wanted to share, mor einfo could be found on Vickie Falcone's website, www.parentingthatworks.net

There were a few points that I loved most, she said that kids hear over 400 commands a day, and if were asking a question or directing rather than demanding and commanding, kids would feel powerful, heard, important, and loved.  Getting down to their level when we talk to them, and also using less words.  It's like a sales technique, its better to be silent after having your say, whoever speaks first shows their hand too early and can get taken advantage of. 

I know sometimes I use too many words to try to explain a situation to the kids, and they couldn't care less.  We have to be clear, consistent, and always with unconditional love, and make sure they know there is always a second chance.

Before we become parents, usually we don't go to a school, sometimes we inherit our wonderful traits from our families.  I am trying to discipline yet leave room for their independent spirit, it's not easy, but I love that they are so strong and know what they want and won't back down.

Speaking of not backing down, the OCTOBER CHALLENGE is on, I would like to invite everyone that reads this blog, and anyone else who is ready to look good in their Halloween Costume, LOL, or just get fit after all of our Jewish Holidays.  Please email, coachyulia@gmail.com or text me 323.377.0707 your:

1. Height
2. Weight
3. Body Fat
(if you can go to a gym or have someone do it for you, I can do it for you if you live close)
4. Chest/Waist/Hips/Upper Right Thigh/Upper Right Arm measurements
(get measure tape at 99 cent! or have a friend do it for you, or come to my house :)

I need these measurements by October 1, 2013, and we will remeasure November 1, 2013 - I will tell you mine, I am over mine!!!! My weight has not budged, we will see what my bodyfat and inches are, I know my clothes fit better, and I feel great, but I got to shake my money maker, cardio baby.

Depending on where you live, the winner will get a private session or my Yoga DVD, or I can connect you to someone local in your area.  The biggest prize however will be how you look and feel.

Who is with me?
More Details To Come,
I will support you with exercise and nutrition tips,
Do this with your friends,
Let's Go!
Coach Yulia

 

Serving and Cleaning and Serving and Cleaning...

This past month has been a doozy, non stop celebration, totally stepping off the world and routines to be part of ancient traditions, tons of food, and now its done and I am glad.  Vacations and holidays make us appreciate coming back home and getting back to our routine. 

FINALLY the kids are all asleep and I can get back to blogging, its been a few days, and now there won't be any holidays for quite a while.  I am so excited to get everyone into getting healthy and fit in a fun way.  This is like New Years Day for the Jewish community, everyone is so stuffed, and done eating excessively, and definitely put on a few in the last month, looking to start fresh.

That is all we can really do is just start fresh, and find something that feels good, is fun, and easily fits into our schedule and lifestyle.  A tall order?  I don't think so, its making something available, affordable, and easy to get to, fun to do, I am ready to meet that need.

I am calling for an OCTOBER CHALLENGE, and I am opening it up to everyone in LA, all my friends all over the USA, and all my friends all over the world.  Why don't you bring your friends along too? More details to come tomorrow, they say you are 15% more productive, efficient, and motivated exercising with a friend, imagine a group of friends.

So the title of this post specifically refers to my kids, but also to this month of holidays where it is a big part to have meals and guests, usually twice a day, everyone is cooking non stop.  So for a lot of people it has been all about serving and cleaning, and as a mom I feel that is what I do all day when I am home with them, serving and cleaning the never ending mess.

I always remind myself these are good problems to have,
Shavua Tov,
Enjoy the rest of your weekend,
Good Luck to all my fellow Herbalife Coaches in the Herbalife Triathlon of Los Angeles tomorrow,
Coach Yulia 

Everybody is going to say "I love your buttons!"

It takes my daughter a while to pick out the perfect outfit, she is 3 1/2, and she loves to say that everyone will say how beautiful it looks.  Today it was more specific about the buttons :)
     

 

 

It was so hot the last few days, I was planning to go today to the splash pad, but today it is a bit overcast, playing it by ear, I have a hair appointment late afternoon, and our holiday starts tonight, but I want to take the kids out for a bit.

 

One of the things I do everyday is meet new people, I absolutely love it.  Every time I am out with the kids I love to connect with other moms, to introduce them to all of my coaching services, and just to share tips and stories.  I met an amazing mom the other day that told me about a free parenting workshop that gave some amazing tips.  I will write about it more at a later time, but the gist was that kids just want us to respect and listen to what they really want, and also crave direction and guidance, it is how we approach it that is the key, stay tuned :)

 

I love connecting with adults and its a bonus when my kids meet new friends, and I love that because it has always been like this, they are so open to meeting new friends everywhere we go, they are fun and friendly kids, Thank God.

 

We are so blessed with our Los Angeles weather, the cool feels so good, but of course I want the hot right now for the kids, and there is nothing wrong with wanting it our way, but accepting what is.

 

I guess that is how kids operate, they want it their way, and I love to sing them the rolling stones song "You Can't Always Get What You Want," and now I hear my daughter singing it around the house!

 

Coach Yulia

 

 



You Can Recreate YOU Anytime!

This was the powerful message that stuck with me during our amazing holidays which will have its final days starting tomorrow evening.  I heard it on the first day during the New Year services, and it really stuck with me, I find the concept and reality so exciting, freeing, and tangible.

In Jewish teachings, human beings are made in the image of God, and since God has no image, we are forbidden to create idols or any other likeness, then since we are made in God's image, we have no one image either - makes sense?

So if there are addictions, hardships, challenging family relationships, none of that defines YOU.  We can always learn, grow, and move forward with what we choose, what defines us.  At one of our meals we had a powerful discussion about the twelve step programs, which are amazing, they really help people recognize and deal with their addiction.  There has to be a point however, that the addiction is not your identity anymore, for every person this will take a different amount of time.

As we grow up in our world, children are always asked what they want to do, we as adults are also asked what do we do, and many times in our current economy, one thing for your whole life is very rare.  My personality has never wanted to do just one thing, I needed the balance of multiple jobs, events, classes, and even fun.  I was never part of one group or crowd, I liked to know someone in every crowd, and I am still like that today.

It is fun observing how I operate and I invite you to do the same, where do you thrive, where do you feel empowered, where do you feel authentic?  We really do have a choice to live in that space, but there is one thing we have to do.  Spread the word, let people know, promote, be the example, lead, motivate, inspire, and just be you.

I love the concept of our image being variable, it is so exciting and leads to infinite possibilities.

Let's Shine this New Year,
Let's Inspire this New Year,
Let's IMAGINE AND VISUALIZE this New Year,
Let's BE THE EXAMPLE this New Year,
Coach Yulia

The kids are home all day today, no school because of the holidays and yesterday we had a bit of high tempers and not listening - The Joys of Parenthood :) posing happy smiles for the picture was the highlight of their day

Showing our children life could be positive and calm

Even though my buttons could definitely be pushed, I am constantly aware of the world around me and how there are messages and events that our kids are bombarded with.  No matter what happens in the world, my goal is to be the positive, calm rock for my children.

Whether it is family, friends, or the world around us, it is my mission to be the explainer, the listener, the positive view, the we can get through anything together, and lets learn a lesson.

When my kids wake up in the morning, they really feel their best, yes she slept in her princess dress, but not her crown, she put it on first thing.  Thank God they all love their sleep, they are calm, happy, and I take that time to hang with them give them a lot of hugs and kisses, and just enjoy that energy.  My daughter brought some books and everyone grabbed one and was enjoying the quiet dawn, perfection.

 

 

As the day progresses, things arise, tempers rise, and heads butt, and my intention is to be fully present and counteract it all with a positive and calm response, I am taking this on fully.  My family life is such a blessing, and it is the area in which my yearning for a calm and positive state of mind is challenged daily.  I take on that challenge, and will reach deep inside myself, my gut, my need for balance and shine the light onto my kids, and keep on bringing into my work, where it is welcomed.

 

I feel so blessed to have my work where my calm and positive nature is expected and needed.  I met with a beautiful Doula client today, I am so honored to support her journey into motherhood for the first time.

 

 

Feeling Focused,

Feeling Blessed,

Feeling Aware,

Feeling Ready To Be Me Everywhere,

Be You,

That is what the world needs,

Coach Yulia

 

Sleepy

Last night was great for my baby, but I still feel off from our non stop holiday nights and long days, no routine for the kids, and the past few nights being long and sleepless.

There were some events going on today, but my kids were playing nicely, and I was getting some stuff done around the house.  This afternoon I went to an amazing Herbalife training, learning from my fellow Health Coaches and Leaders.  Everytime I am around happy, positive, and healthy people, I get re energized and inspired to keep on spreading the word and being an example of happy and healthy for my community.

Now back home, finally got the baby to bed, hopefully it will be a good night.  The kids threw all their toys around their room, so the moment I stepped in the door we were all trying to put everything away before bed time.  We have been out all day the past few days, so a day at home is a good balance.

I am hoping I get the best nights sleep ever tonight, meeting with a Doula client tomorrow morning, and going to find something fun to do with the kids, they don't have school until the following Monday.

I think I am letting myself feel the tiredness, so I have energy for the last days of the holiday.
Wish me luck!!! These are good problems :)
Coach Yulia

 

The Three Day Rule

What has your experience been with pacifiers?  I absolutely love them mainly for me to get a break and to chill the kids out.  There are so many pros and cons to it, but for me all three kids used it, and I am weaning my last one off of it now, and its been a crazy few nights.

With nursing the rule is three days, once you have not nursed for three days then the baby starts getting used to whatever other method you are using, it is also the Jewish law about nursing.  I stopped nursing my baby after six months, my milk ran low, he was my third in five years, and I was OK with it.

So we have been in a non stop revelry this past month, all with culminate this coming weekend with an insane party where people literally go synagogue hopping, drinking, and partying into the wee hours.  I forgot to mention that I wouldn't be blogging for a couple of days, the way the holidays have fallen this year is in three day cycles where we are cut off from the world.  Not TV, phone, computer, or driving.  I absolutely love stepping off our over stimulated world and into a festive, fun, caring, learning, and delicious community celebration.

So starting this past Wednesday night, Jewish people build little huts and eat and sometimes sleep with them, and are excited to invite guests.  We were not able to build one in our place, so we were blessed to be invited to new friends and had a blast.  For my kids it is fun but also long late hours, so everyone has been a bit cranky and extra over tired, wired, crazy energy.

Thursday night we finished our night meal at almost midnight, and were tired so on the walk home, which wasn't far at all, I realized we left our only pacifier.  I took it as a sign that it was time to just let it go.  The main reason because the only time my baby would wake up at night is when it would fall out of his mouth - DONE!

With my first, he had it until three years old, and luckily we really lost all of the millions we had and explained to him that we lost it and he was OK with it and let it go.  This was a kid that without one would not stop, it was the only way to get him to nap and relax in general.  My daughter at nine months started to only cry when it fell out of her mouth while sleeping, so we decided it was time to stop right there and then.  My baby is just turning 18 months, I think its perfect timing, before he gets more attached, and Thank God, he is our easy going guy, and loves to sleep.  The last few nights have been hell, but tonight we kept him up late, laid down with him and after thinking we were playing, he slowly fell asleep with no fuss - Day 3 - I tell you, babies need three days to get it.

It definitely would make a difference if there was a younger baby with one and many other factors, but as hard as it has been the last few days, I figured we were so off of any schedule anyone, and luckily my older two are amazing sleepers, he was screaming throughout the night the past few nights and they were happily in their deep sleep, Thank God!

We have a few days before our final holidays begin, looking forward to it all, and there will be a celebration once I am free of diapers.  Funny what gets us excited at different points in our life.

Shavua Tov,
Chag Sameach,
Happy rest of your weekend,
Coach Yulia



My friend just sent me this picture, the baby is maybe six months, my daughter is just over two, amazing how much her hair has grown, pictures really show us moments captured, with children we are forced to be present

 

Chag Sameach Los Angeles Community and the World

I am so blessed to have ended up in Los Angeles with no plan, found Yoga in one month and my husband in seven years, and keep on finding magic as I go.  I always feel grateful that my husband was part of this magic Jewish community in Los Angeles.  My children have an amazing learning environment, tons of friends, and non stop celebrations with family and friends.

Tonight is Sukkot, all our meals have to be in a Sukkah, and I was so excited when we originally planned to drive to Denver and spend it with my sister in law.  For a million reasons it did not work out, and all I really want is my kids to know this holiday.  I did not grow up with it, and it is so special, we have watched a fun video about it, and they are in love with the idea of a Sukkah.  Each year our kids get older it becomes clearer, deeper, and has more meaning. 

Thank you to everyone that reached out to have us join you, I am so moved and grateful for you and all of our wonderful friends in this community.  Everyone is genuinely giving, caring, and so happy to do a Mitzva.

Have a wonderful, happy, festive holiday
Coach Yulia

Ready to get pretty, first stop, eyebrow threading :)

There is nothing like LIFE

I had the honor of being a Doula today, every time I do it, I get tears in my eyes.  It is just suck a miracle, how does it all happen, I am still on a high from it.  I am so in awe of the powerful mama and the hard working baby :)

I finished my day teaching first Mat Pilates, then Yoga, amazing!!!  I am blessed to do what I love, to use the gifts that I have been given in this life, just feeling present and amazing.  I got to see my kids off to school this morning, and the baby was with my husband, they are sleeping now.  I will be with them tomorrow all day, they do not have school because tomorrow night starts the final round of celebrations.  So excited, we are still figuring out if we can put a Sukkah somewhere around our place, or we can be guests at someones table.  I know it will all come together, my kids are sooooooo excited about Sukkot, it is eight days of non stop fun.

This Sunday I have the opportunity to be trained by the leaders of my Herbalife business, and I am excited to have the day completely free.  Things are just falling into place, doors are opening, everything is flowing, and I am along for the ride.

The moon is magical tonight, go outside and take a look, I tried to take a few pictures but it comes out odd, I am taking it with my phone camera, I wonder how they photograph the moon.  Do you see it by the light pole?  From my car driving around 7pm, and then below just now, doesn't it just look like a hollow ball?

My thoughts are all over the place,
Feeling Blessed,
Feeling Excited,
Excited to Feel,
Coach Yulia

 

Women's Wellness Club

The ideas keep coming, our community is missing a focused space for all things women's wellness.  I am excited to start envisioning this, and anyone that would love to brainstorm and collaborate, I am open.  Anyone that just wants to kvetch, share, or just absorb amazing feminine energy, its all good.

Was with my baby all day running errands, he napped in the car on the way to the Herbalife warehouse to pick up some products for a client.  Then we went to visit my amazing Doula Teacher, www.supportedbirth.com and he was just hanging out checking out my phone next to the cute doggie.  I have a couple of births coming up, and I am so excited and honored to be part of the process. 

My focus is to stay grateful and present into what flows into my life, take advantage of the opportunities and open doors, and to genuinely love the energy exchange.




Yesterday was so cool, my good friend told me there was a Thomas the Train event in the Grove, so all our kids got together, her baby was home with her husband.  It was nice to hang out, I just snapped this picture caught the kids by surprise, but my daughter is always camera ready :)

Feeling Blessed,
Excited for the continuation of our non stop holidays,
Excited for all the possibilities of this year,
Focusing on staying calm and really listening, especially to my children,
Chag Sameach,
Coach Yulia

Lazy Day after Mandatory Fun

Although you wouldn't call fasting fun, this whole holiday season is non stop socializing, and every other part of it eating with friends and family.  We always laugh how there are always celebrations and we get exhausted from the fun.  Even after the fast when the Shofar is blown, everyone is so elated and excited to get something in their belly.

Today the sun is hot, not sure what I want to do with the kids, have a few classes later.  May just have a super lazy day, they have school tomorrow, and after tomorrow, and finally our last round of holidays, one of my favorites, celebrating Sukkot, we sit in little huts and have our meals, some people even sleep there.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sukkot

Just put baby to nap, kids are watching a show, and I just want "nothing time."

Whatever you choose to do today, ENJOY.

Coach
Yulia

Almost a Grape

Last night we started our almost 26 hour fast, I was doing great, I was helping to run the kids program in our synagogue.  A wonderful friend came to help, and the kids were pretty mellow, played great together.  I was giving everyone snacks no problem, and then I reached into the bag I brought for my own kids, washed some grapes, and immediately popped one in my mouth -- I spit it right out, remembering, OH YEAH, I'm Fasting!  So funny with our kids, we do things automatically, that grape almost did me in, but luckily my brain, even with no food or water was functioning.

 

He got gorgeous hazel, green, brown, gray mix

We came home in the late afternoon, my husband stayed there until sundown.  I really wanted them all to go to sleep at their usual bedtime, 7pm, worked for the older kids, but my baby took a late nap, and now Thank God my husband is home and putting him to sleep.  Overall I did OK, a little lightheaded, and weak, but not really hungry or tired.

My shape of eyes I think :)

Happy I am done, figuring out how to entertain the kids tomorrow, then finishing with a couple of Yoga classes tomorrow night.  I have my phone on standby for a Doula client, and am so excited to work out with my Herbalife Clients for Free, it is all included in there Nutrition Program.

I'm feeling kind of out of it, but blessed for everything on my plate - LITERALLY.
Coach Yulia

Birthday, Shabbat, Yom Kippur, etc. etc. etc.

Love my morning shake of almond milk, strawberries, and
Herbalife Dutch Chocolate Healthy Meal - YUM!

This morning I had to go to my Yoga class, the kids have no school because tonight is a very holy day for the Jewish people, Yom Kippur, we start our fast tonight and finish tomorrow night.  It is also Shabbat, our Day of Rest, but when Yom Kippur falls on this day, we follow those traditions, so there will be no guests, no big dinner, a dinner before sundown, and connecting with our deep spiritual self, and putting forth our intentions for the coming year.

Today is also my oldest, Eli Tzvi's birthday, He is officially 5!!! He was born September 13, 2007, but we have been celebrating for a whole month already because his Hebrew birthday started back then, so it has been non stop fun.  Because of the holidays I have postponed his party in his class, so we are going to keep the celebrations going until my birthday October 11 :)

We have a busy day of cleaning, preparing, and running last minute errands.  When I was headed to my class first thing this morning I was so happy thinking, I am YOGA BOUND.  Then I started thinking of the word bound and its many meanings.

	Bound
	1. Past tense of bind 2. A springy jump 3. On the way to somewhere 4. Limit of a property   1. They bound my hands together. 2. The dog went bounding after the ball. 3. We are bound for America. 4. We had gone out of bounds.   The positive meaning is when you are headed somewhere that makes you happy.  Not so positive is feeling stuck.  It is really a word describing the ups and downs of life.  Wishing everyone more ups, although the downs to point us in the right direction.  Grateful for it all.   Coach Yulia Shabbat Shalom   Meaningful Fast, Gmar Chatima Tova

4pm-6pm

My shake this morning turned out thick like pudding, yum ate my peanut butter and chocolate with a spoon, and yes that is my belly you see, everything else is leaning up, belly sticks out more, did my rebounding today, excited to get it off

Once our kids go to school, we feel so blessed with the time to do what we got to do.  We are so lucky they are in an amazing environment learning and having fun for most of the day.  Mine are home around 4pm and until 6pm we are counting down the minutes until bedtime.

In school they are in a structured environment the whole day, so once they come home they want to unwind, they are so excited to see mama and papa, they are so excited to be home where they know exactly where everything is.  The demands begin, the fighting begins, the crying begins, not always, so I just try to go with the flow of what they bring to the table.  Sometimes there is quiet play in their room, sometimes we watch a great kids show, sometimes we have a full dinner, sometimes just snacks, we are more breakfast and lunch eaters.

Yesterday I had a someone over with her two kids, so our kids played, we were talking about getting workouts going for our community.  There are so many ideas, so much potential I am looking to connect with like minded people to create workouts for the women of our community.

I just came back from two private clients, have one more later in the afternoon, finishing my evening with a Prenatal Yoga class and checking in with a Doula client.

Love My Life,
Coach Yulia

It's Quiet - Now What?

A fellow mom with five kids was telling me that her youngest just went to school, so this is the first time she is by herself and the first day she literally sat there soaking it in, not only from pleasure, but the transformation of it all.

This morning we hurried to get the kids ready and headed to an early Brit Mila, circumcision ceremony, it was beautiful, my friends sixth child, then we ran the kids to school, baby is napping, and I want to blog, but feeling like I do not know where to begin.

The rest of the day is all mine, nowhere to be, no appointments until tonight, so I want to get back to the kids room and the kids closet, and find a place for all of the books that we do not use and do not want to display, study books, reference books, my husband says he needs them, and I want them out of sight and out of the way.

I met a fellow Doula today, and appreciate that we are all so different with different backgrounds, and just like a partner in life, there is a Doula for everyone.  I definitely need to click with someone, there needs to be a connection, it is beyond a "job" for me.  I had a conversation with one of my clients about letting go in the moment.  Yes its good to have a birth plan, be surrounded by people that support and guide, but ultimately everything is in place so the mom can go in to her "place," zone, calm, peace, focus, breath, movement, connection, energy - wherever that place is for her.

Being present is the magic and recently I am running across some amazing quotes.  One of my fellow Herbalife coaches always uses the phrase "all the important things in life require time."  I find that with labor and birth as well, time is our friend, the statistics are just that, they have nothing to do with the individual, it is good to have an idea, an outline, a plan, but ultimately it is about connecting to the magic happening in the moment.

I was also reading about Aloe Vera once again and was amazed but not surprised to know that in the Herbalife Innovation and Manufacturing Facility in California, we produce approximately 84% of the liquid aloe products consumed worldwide!!! I love the philosophy: FROM SEED TO FEED.
http://www.herbalifenutritioninstitute.com/en/

Feeling blessed with my puzzle,
Yoga
Prenatal Yoga
Mat Pilates
Reboundology
Personal Training
Herbalife Health and Wellness Coach
Doula
Daughter
Sister
Wife
Mother

What's Next :)
Coach Yulia

 

Cleaning House

My big goal for today was to delve into the closet in the kids room, that is the throw everything that you don't really have a place for closet.  It took me a while to get to it, I have been staying up late catching up with work, and my baby is a little under the weather.  So I decided to take the morning nap with him, I don't think it was the deepest best nap ever, but I definitely feel a little more awake and not so sneezy, it happens when I am tired.




Found this in my closet, a dress from Miami days, great for the house now, cleaning, light, comfortable, this is how I do!

 

I am finding things in the closet that I have kept for a while and now realize that it must go.  We put our daughter in preschool at 18 months, she was a wonderful handful even then and needed social interaction and we needed her to be entertained.  So she has a huge art pad that they would paint in, I just thought the idea was so fabulous, it got stuck in the back of the closet until now, she is 3 1/2.  I opened it, and saw just simple fun happening and realized that with a lot of projects, it is the project in action that is the memory and the fun, the actual creation really does not matter, to me anyway.  So to the recycling bin it went today, it was so huge maybe 1/4 of it had something on it.  I love the idea of my little lady painting on that big canvas, the idea of it is enough for me. 

I have seen moms give advice of taking pictures of the projects and filing them.  I have some of the kids projects that are amazing because they also have pictures or really creative art work, so those I will keep for now.

I took a moment to blog, my baby is taking a nap, and I have an hour to get the kids room in order, the rest of the closet I will leave for the rest of the week.  I have so many things that are even from my childhood that are just tucked away in a box with other things that I have saved throughout the years.  I want to comb through each item and either organize it or throw it away.  Some days I will be running around to clients, taking my baby to fun places, and other days I will be enjoying exploring every nook and cranny of my home and knowing exactly what is where.

To each their own,
Please know we all get excited about different things,
Only now that my baby is older and I have a lot to throw/give away, I feel free to put my energy in,
I like to evaluate my present situation and figure out the best case scenario,
Day By Day,
Although a Plan is in Place,
Fluctuation and Change are necessary tools in life,
Enjoy the Flow,
Now I am ready for the closet again,
Coach Yulia

Did you get FAT?

I was telling my brother today that I think I would prefer someone saying that to me instead of "are you pregnant!"  I have had the most fabulous day, this morning I was talking to my wonderful cousin in Russia, and its funny that she and my brother who lives across the country told me they have nothing to ask me because they read it all in my blog :)

So this morning I met with a new Doula client, so excited for her, and excited to support her.  Then came home grabbed my baby and headed to the Herbalife Warehouse where I had to get a few things for a new client that wanted to start their Nutrition Program ASAP.  See Public Service Announcement Below :)

Thanks to my wonderful client and friend for making me this fabulous card :)

Then I came home, kids just got home from school, my husband was home with them and I went to the same client above that just started her nutrition program and introduced rebounding to her and her daughter. AMAZING - I am so inspired to get my own results of a fun way to be active, easily in the home, especially with kids, and then spread the word, mark my words, this will be the next "it" thing.  Now how do I get IT started...HMMM.  Excited for the possibilities, for all the young ladies, moms, and even gentlemen can easily get their workout in daily.

This week every Jew around the world is preparing for one of the most symbolic, spiritual, and important days of the year, Yom Kippur.  I would like to ask forgiveness if I have offended or hurt anyone by my words in person or in this blog.  It is all my opinion and an outlet.  I wish everyone to be inscribed in the book of life and to have a wonderful year.

Gmar Chatima Tova,

FEEL GOOD,

BE PRESENT,

BE GRATEFUL,

BE YOU,

Coach Yulia

I am ready to be the CHAMPION

A bit scary of a face, but it amused me :)  What is a champion? Here are two definitions I liked the first one is from a business dictionary and the second from an urban dictionary.
http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=champion

champion

 

Person who voluntarily takes extraordinary interest in the adoption, implementation, and success of a cause, policy, program, project, or product. He or she will typically try to force the idea through entrenched internal resistance to change, and will evangelize it throughout the organization. Also called change advocate, change agent, or idea champion.

Read more: http://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/champion.html#ixzz2eKDzN4X2

	Champion
	Someone who commits an act of the following: extreme courage, extreme awesomeness, or extreme stupidity; one who is worthy of positive recognition for such an act. May be shortened to "champ". "Did you hear about the guy who ate a stapler?" "Man, that guy is such a champion."   The definition of a champion is as follows. one who has an infinite willingness to put his team on his back doe. you will never see so much determination in another person doe. a champion is perfection at everything he does i.e. sports, schooling, jobs, or life in general. Wow they are champions at life.
This morning the kids and I are taking it easy, my husband is busy all day and later on we are going to hang with my brother in law and mother in law.  They are watching some shows I like and these words were used this morning - PASSIONATE, DEDICATED, INSPIRED.  I love those words, a champion has those attributes as well.  This word popped into my head today and I really want to be that girl, that everyone has seen my challenges with kids, weight loss, stress, life and can relate and can enjoy, laugh, and maybe even find something they can apply to their life. My main focus is weight loss, I talked to a client yesterday that called at the exactly right time, she is also tired of being out of shape, SHE IS DONE, so now we can both get serious, be each other's accountability partners, stay consistent, stay focused, and get results.  Believe it or not my friends there is no magic, no special potion, no one of a kind exercise, it is just YOU finding what works for YOU. LOOK. FIND. APPLY. FEEL GOOD. WORK IT. Coach Yulia

The Belly Store

I have been lucky that my kids are overall happy with what they have, most of the clothes have come to us from family and friends, no complaints, our toys are also satisfying to them.  Even when we go to a store with things they would like, I easily tell them not today, or we don't need that, and even candy, they are pretty easygoing that way.

Whenever my daughter says she wants something like food, I tell her we need to go to the food store.  If she says shoes, shoes store, dress, dress store, etc.  So today she asked me why I have a belly, and I told her I have to exercise and I want a belly like hers.  So she tells me to go to the Belly Store, and buy one like hers - LOVE! If only it were that easy, right?

So what am I going to do about my belly? Something I should have done almost 10 months ago.  Many people go to gyms, try many kinds of eating programs, or even buy a treadmill.  Herbalife is perfect for my energy, nutrition, and lifestyle, what I am really missing is a consistent exercise routine.  Last January my husband and I got away for the first time in five years on a business cruise, no kids, it was amazing, and I came across an awe inspiring opportunity.  I met Al Carter, he was a professional trampolinist, and has researched the benefits of rebounding, not doing tricks, but jumping for exercise.  I got one of those trampolines, and the more I study about it, I am studying to be a certified reboundologist, I know if I started in January, now in almost October I definitely would have lost the 30 pounds I need to lose.  Each baby left me with ten pounds, and although I feel great, and feel myself losing inches, my stomach and weight wont budge.  We still have our Jewish Holidays until the end of September, and then I am going to rebound my way to fabulousness, and be where I want to be by the New Year 2014.  We just celebrated our Jewish New Year, and I am so excited about all the possibilities.

In this bag that you see in the picture is my rebounder sitting in a bag on top of my nightstand, it is like a mini trampoline, folds in quarters, I have a roller for it like a carry on bag.  So easy to store, fits great under our bed, and so much fun.  I love to jump, always have, always will and so do our kids.  I am blown away how NASA has done studies on the benefits of rebounding and astronauts use it as a way to regain their loss of muscle during space flights.  My rebounder is so high quality that it comes with a lifetime warranty, I seel them as well, I figured since I will be incorporating it into my personal training, I might as well give my clients access to this amazing piece of machinery.

I can send you articles, facts, and any information about specific goals, and can ship it anywhere in the world.  I am focused on finishing my certification this month, and making reboundology a household name like spinning and zumba.

I am tired of people asking me if I am pregnant, I am tired of my close not fitting, I am ready to be the example of finding something easy that works for me, and could also be a good way to get my kids energy out!

What I love is, no matter what your weight, balance, or goal, the health bounce has you leaving your feet on the rebounder and gently moving up and down, doing it for five minutes activates your lymph system which is directly working with your immune system, helping your body cleanse all the toxins out.  There are so many details, and I am learning more and more each day.

Excited to be even more fabulous than I already am :)
Aren't You?
Coach Yulia

Happy and Sweet New Year

I love that in the USA everyone celebrates their cultures New Year, and many times make a festival out of it.  The Jewish New Year is about reflection and intention, looking back, making amends, and accepting blessings for the year ahead.

It is funny that usually it is the beginning of Fall, and in Los Angeles it feels like the beginning of Summer.  We have been lucky with a really mild, cool summer, and now it is literally hard to breathe.  It feels humid, the desert sun is blaring, and usual the shade is heaven, but now it just feels as heavy and hot as everywhere else.

Thank God for my wonderful husband getting our house in order and cooking.  My job today, to keep the kids occupied, I had to teach a class at the gym, took them to the kids club.  Then got my hair did, and while my color was processing, my oldest Eli Tzvi got a wonderful haircut.  Then my wonderful brother in law got us all pizza and then hung with the kids while I enjoyed my mani/pedi.  Ran around a little bit more, now home and helping out with the last minute preparations.  The house looks amazing, we have so much delicious food.  This year is going to be amazing, I am so excited for all the new things to come.

Wishing everyone a wonderful week,
A Sweet and Happy New Year,
May you be inscribed in the book of life,
I will be off until Saturday night,
the holiday rolls right into our Day of Rest,
Wow, that is the longest I have gone without blogging,
I will be having withdrawal and tons of stories to tell,
Love My Readers,
Love My Life,
Love My Family,
Love My Path,
Blessings to All,
Coach Yulia

 

Do Your Kids Know That You Will Really Be There In A Minute?

I had an interesting experience of consciousness yesterday when my kids came home from school.  Thank God they were all pretty relaxed and went right to play with their toys.  My oldest was in his room and my other two wanted something to eat, and then I hear Eli Tzvi calling me from his room and I told him I will be there in a minute.

The magic of this moment was that he patiently waited relaxing on his bed until I came, there was no screaming, there was no demanding or whining, finally he knows that I will finish up what I am doing as quick as I can and come over and see what he needs.  What was the situation?  He was trying to build a train track and a piece was missing and he wanted me to help him find it.  I was so excited of how this had all transpired, so I told him I would be right back (do we always come right back?)  I think I had to get something for the other kids, and then I really did come right back and we found it together. 

Screaming still happens, whining, crying, pulling clothes, and sometimes even biting still happens, but that moment showed me that there is hope.  Now that I am home when they are home, I focus on being present, and once they get a bit older, I won't say it becomes easier, but basically if you show them respect they will show you respect.  I try my best to be patient and listen to what they are asking, even if it takes them forever to get it out of their mouth.

One of my goals for this year is to build this kind of relationship with my children, communication, them knowing that I will be there when they ask, and they know they can come to me for anything.  May this be a foundation for the rest of our lives - AMEN!

Tomorrow night our Jewish New Year begins, and we are all getting ready physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

Shana Tova V Metuka,
Happy and Sweet New Year,
Gmar Chatima Tova,
May Everyone Be Inscribed In The Book Of Life,
Coach Yulia

Got some new bright colors for everyday, my work clothes are my workout clothes are my comfortable clothes



 

Embracing My Homemaker Role

Life is about change, every second we are different, we are always creating, we become who we are in the moment.  I have always liked to be busy, working, travelling, I love being on the go.  This drive has followed me into my married life with children, it is really non stop and I wouldn't have it any other way.  Thank God my husband and I have the right balance for us, he is the cleaner and I am the organizer, I actually really love organizing, but only my stuff, I could never do it as a career.

With all of the different things that I do, every year has been completely different.  This year I find myself busy in the evenings and weekends, so I am able to be home with my baby during the day.  The kids are at school, he is an easygoing guy, so I am really looking forward to getting my home in order.

Most of you that know me well may be shocked by this, I am so not a homemaker, I do not enjoy cleaning, and I would always choose to be out of the house than stay in.  I guess perspective really gives us an understanding of the other side.  Last year I was working at the office of my children's school a few hours a week, and although I despised 9-5 type office jobs before, this one was a pleasure for many reasons.  I could just sit for a few hours, which is rare when you are a mother, and I loved being in the school environment, learning from all the creativity of the teachers.

I find myself in a similar predicament now, where before I would have been unhappy, bored, or really wished I was somewhere else at a different point in my life.  I am ecstatic, excited, and ready to be home with my baby and take care of my home full on.  I am literally going to have immense pleasure not having to be anywhere, not having to run.  What's on the agenda for today?  Tons of projects at home, going corner by corner, and once my baby wakes up from his nap, we are going to the mall.

I have a return, some Jewish New Year shopping to do for me and the kids, and there is a great play area for kids.

I AM A MOM,
took me 5 years to get to this place,
and like it,
Life Is Funny,
Happy Homemaking,
Find The Pleasure,
Feel Good,
Coach Yulia

Open Up

Opportunities come and go, feeling good where we are keeps changing, life keeps moving.  I try my best just to keep breathing and staying open.  We are so blessed living in the USA, where our struggling is still living quite nicely, we cannot even think to compare it to the poor around the world.

Now that my kids are in school I am so excited for this year, our Jewish New Year begins Wednesday night, and just like New Years Eve on December 31, everyone is hopeful, sees things with fresh eyes, and is excited for what may come about. 

I don't know if its a blessing or a curse, but I live in this hopeful state 24/7, even when things are tough, and I keep breathing and telling myself, things will appear, just keep looking, just stay open, just stay calm.

Not easy, I know, especially with mouths to feed and bills to pay, but somehow things really do work out.  What gives me my hope and faith is that I have 100% trust that things will work out, that Thank God I am taken care of, my best interests, dreams, and hopes will be manifested as long as I keep searching what feeds my soul.

The other day I was saying that we all get our homework from God, these are my mom's wise words.  I was feeling extra powerful in the moment and taunting the world to bring that homework on, and then I had the craziest day dealing with tantrums in the heat, and being late to pick up my son, Thank God friends came through to help.  I ran into a good friend that was also telling me that between jobs he was feeling bored and really wanted something to keep him busy, and now he is so busy he is exhausted and wishes he could take a break.

Be careful what you wish for,
It will appear,
We bring everything that is in our life into our life,
Take Responsibility and you will be Free,
You will be aware that things don't just happen,
or sometimes things do just happen,
like ceilings falling, computer hacks, and hives of wasps,
Sometimes it's good not to take it all to seriously,
Stay Cool,
Hydrate,
Off to a Splash Pad today with the kids,
Woo Hoo!
Live Life,
Coach Yulia 

We immigrated from Moscow, Russia in 1980 to Denver, Co, I was seven when we came, I must be a few years older in this picture, this was our only dog, Froshy, her owner thought of froth on a beer, she looked bushy when she was a baby

WASPY House Guests

If you look close, you could see the second hive int he corner, and a few wasps crawling about on the big one

LITERALLY!!!  One of my friends told me she recently stepped on a wasp and got stung, and I have been noticing them flying around everywhere, and right in our bushes.  Today some friends came to visit and pointed out two hives right at our doorstep.  I really do not have many fears in this lifetime, one of them is driving between those humongous semi trucks, and my husband was a trucker for 10 years.  Most bugs I love to get with my swatter, but bees I just like to stay out of their way.  On one hand I have a love connection with their honey making, I love honey, and my maiden last name, Medovoy, means made of honey, but that's as close as I want to get.

My neighbor who was lived her 20 years said she always sees them come back, and we should just swat it down, um, no thanks, I will see who will do that for me, it really freaks me out.  Wow and I am realizing this is strike three of the odd things that have happened in our home, CRAZY.

Anyway, besides that we had a nice Shabbat, always tons of energy and some unpleasantries at home, but such is life as a parent with Thank God strong willed, independent, and non stop toddlers.

It has been soooooooo hot in Los Angeles, and super humid, I am not a sweaty person, or should I say in my life I was not.  Since I got married and had kids my body chemistry has changed, I used to be cold, now with this heat, the sweat is pouring, YUCK.  My kids run hot too, even my little babies curls are sweaty.  We were all so excited of our cool summer, here it is, August and September, super hot, and I am sure those desert Santa Ana winds will come for a visit too.

Are we ever satisfied?
Where is our Hollywood Perfect Weather?
Just a bit of Kvetching is good for your health :)
Shavua Tov,
Enjoy your long weekend,
Coach Yulia

Perspective

After reading my blog yesterday about how it was just a crazy day of tantrums, heat, and chaos, my mom reminisced about our toddlerhood:

Reading your blog brought deja vu from my life in Moscow. I write about that in my memoir. "There were no kindergartens or schools in walking distance, there was never school buses system in Russia. When my kids were old enough to attend kindergarten, I had to wait with them for an over-crowded bus in a terrible weather, struggled getting in and out of the bus, walked with them through the piles of dirt or snow to the kindergarten building. After that, I took a bus and subway to reach my place of work. Picking kids up after work was a nightmare all over again. Peter worked long hours, he left earlier than I and returned home after 9 PM. Thank God, he was grocery shopping, it was easier for him because he had his company car..." I want to add to that how I had get you out of bed in darkness, to dress both of you in winter clothes, (my brother) would fight with me and get too hot before going into the frosty weather, then he would scream in the bus because people were standing up glued to each other in overcrowded bus and he was at the level of stinky rear ends. To unglue ourselves and get out of the bus was an ordeal all over again... 

God Bless America, where people have dignity and parents have cars. That is why Americans can not love abroad, they can only travel and come home, sweet home... Love, Mom.

 

WE HAVE NO PROBLEMS.

Enjoy What You Got,

Feel Blessed For All The Good,

Take A Breath,

Have A Great Weekend,

Shabbat Shalom,

Coach Yulia

Getting Ready for Shabbat...love my gloves to wash dishes and clean

My Brilliant Idea - NOT!

I life in a fantasy world, a dream world, where I imagine things are happy and everyone gets along.  I am in this instance referring to family dynamics, and I suppose the more people that are in a family, the more opinions, needs, and loud voices there are.

So my first not so brilliant idea that everyone knew would go bust was our RV trip this summer.  We based our hypothesis on our previous trip the year before which was a great success.  We forgot to factor in new possibilities and it was very challenging to say the least.  We cut it two weeks short, and luckily the kids only remember how fun it was, we however do not want to think about an RV for a very long time.  When we did it the first time, the baby was four months, he just ate and slept, the kids were younger and both took two naps, the time on the road was shorter, and it was one destination, we definitely were too ambitious this year, and quite delusional.  The baby started walking and wanted to walk up to my husband while driving, the kids need open spaces to run, the movies, food, projects, and everything else under the sun was not enough while they felt stuck in a box, pushing each others buttons, yelling at the top of their lungs, OY! DISASTER.

Yesterday I didn't have any classes until the evening, one car was in the shop, my husband had a busy day, so I was in charge of the kids.  Thank God to friends helping out I was able to have some peace of mind.  My daughter got out of her class early, and a wonderful friend was able to bring her home to me, I was going to walk and get her with the baby, but he was still asleep when I had to start walking, plus it was getting hot, Thank God for friends coming to the rescue.  Then I was all ready to walk to get my oldest son who was finishing school half day yesterday at 12:30pm, and I had a BRILLIANT IDEA.  Why not put my daughter on her bicycle, push the stroller, while taking my sons bicycle too, so he can ride it home.  There was a time when the kids rode their bicycles to the park, and then all over town, but recently my daughter just wasn't into it, I convinced her to do it promising ice cream.  Half a block down, heat blaring, my son's bicycle in one hand, pushing stroller with the other, she starts having tantrums, it is already after 12pm, and I know I am going to be late.  I have a little breakdown, one man stops in the street, but doesn't understand how important it is not to leave my son all alone after school is finished.  I see someone pop out of their apartment and consider asking them to leave the bicycles there while I race with the stroller and my daughter four blocks down to the school.  Then I don't see anyone in the middle of my daughter crying, and me fuming, Thank God my baby was just chilling.

Blue Eyes, Blond Hair, Sweet Smile - She is a tough cookie, Fierce, Strong, loves to say NOW!

So I call the school and luckily one of our good friends was able to take my son home with them to play, and I would pick him up there later.  So it ended up with me carrying the bicycles and my daughter pushing our huge jogging stroller which she just barely reached, but luckily its easy to push.  I don't know if I am conveying the horror of the situation, but I was really thinking it was one of the worst days I have ever had in my life - HOW DRAMATIC :)

Thank God we all eventually made it home, and I am just going to have to stop dreaming about perfect scenarios, and get a reality check, and our car comes out of the shop today, so all will be good with the world.

Feeling Blessed For School All Day,
Feeling Blessed For Transportation,
Feeling Blessed For Napping Baby,
Feeling Blessed For Time to Write this Blog,
Feeling Blessed to go teach a class right after I finish writing,
Thank You For Listening,
Thank You For All of Your Wonderful Comments,
Your comments make me smile,
Your Energy Keeps Me Recharged,
Allow Yourself To Get It Out,
Do Not Hold It In,
Find Someone to Talk To,
Luckily I have YOU,
Coach Yulia

Silly Thrills

I am married six years, so seven years ago I was living with my roommate in a nice two bedroom apartment, we were about to have a dinner party, and we got infested with flies.  It was so weird, it has never happened to me before, usually its one here and there, she was a total cleanaholic, I had no idea where they all came from.  I had to search all over town for a fly swatter, couldn't find it, not in the 99 cent store, not in Target, not anywhere, it was nuts.  So I settled for a bug spray, if you can imagine me standing on chairs spritzing each fly and then picking it up to put it in the garbage, hoping I would get all of them before the guests arrived.

I don't know when or where I got this awesome fly swatter you see in the picture, but wow do I have power with it, BUGS HAVE NO CHANCE! It totally gives me a thrill that with my quick eye, coordination, and swift strength, they are no match for me :)  My neighbor is deathly scared of bugs and hanging outside her door was a really horrible looking spider, all fat and green, I climbed up on a chair, it did give me goose bumps, but I did step up and save the day - lol.

What else gives me silly thrills?  Riding the roller coaster with my oldest had me screaming with joy, sinking into a tub full of balls with my baby had me flashing back to childhood fun.  Jumping, I absolutely LOVE jumping, and so do ALL kids, it just has us all feeling so good, like superheroes I suppose.  So starting today, I am getting on my Rebounder, it is not a trampoline for tricks, it is a workout and health apparatus, and I am getting my cardio, strength, and lymphatic cleansing on.  Want to hear more about it?  coachyulia@gmail.com, or 323.377.0707 - now that the kids are in school, I actually have time to recommit to my personal goals.  These are not excuses, yes you can always make time, but for me my rest, energy, and health are the priority always.  Consistency is the key to success - 80% Nutrition, 20% Exercise, plus sleep, water, and HAPPINESS.

NO FLY ZONE,
NO STRESS ZONE,
Find your Silly Thrills that get you in your happy place,
Swat those troubles away, or at least figure out how to deal with them or live with them,
I am just typing away,
Not sure what I want to say,
Enjoying my free time today,
while my baby lay,
napping before he gets up to play,
HAVE A FABULOUS DAY!
Coach Yulia

I Love When Doors Close

Throughout my life I have tried so many things, and some of them didn't work out, and it was OK with me.  Before I started working on cruise ships there was an opportunity to do a study abroad work program in Ukraine in the winter.  I was born in Moscow, and I love to travel, I know Russian, I had to get reference letters from my bosses, who at the time were bar owners of the most awesome bar ever that I cocktailed and bartended at.   They didn't choose me, I was definitely sad for a minute, ego I suppose, but man am I glad I was pointed in another direction.

This keeps happening to me and the new doors that open are just mind boggling.  That has happened to me twice today.  Because of two doors closing, I have gotten two new amazing openings that are exactly what I have been looking for at this point in my life.

I am in awe of how it all works, of being present, of dreaming, of knowing when the right thing is right, and to let go when a door is closed.

I feel vibrations all over, tingles, possibilities, a new stage of my life has begun.  I am finished birthing children and will begin birthing my talents and gifts that I can share with the world.

Thank You For Appreciating Me,
Coach Yulia

My daughter was telling me this morning how much she loves her breakfast kids shake, Thanks Herbalife for making it easy some mornings, although that was her second meal already, I made her buckwheat, Russian style, with cottage cheese