I am always looking to try new things. Here are a few new-to-me experiences I have had over the past few months.
Eyebrow Threading
I tried this in Atlanta. The eyebrow expert flips you back in a chair and then takes what looks like a giant piece of dental floss to your face. The sensation is odd, and less painful than waxing. I absolutely loved the shape of my eyebrows when it was all said and done. The only part I didn't like: being an active participant in the process. You basically have to pull that area of your face flat and hold still while the brow master goes to work. I am assiduously trying to be kind to that part of my face, so I don't know if this is a new normal for me.
Self Publishing
I have written my first children's book, hurray! Getting it to actually print? A loud and resounding boo. We have worked with two separate companies. I have clear illustrations that I love and a solid, unique story. Previously, we had printed a book of poems that my husband wrote for me, and that was easy-peasy lemon squeezy.
It should be the same for me to translate my book to a hard copy. Right. Right?!
Not so fast, Missy.
We built the book in Google Docs. (And by 'we' I mean my tech team: Spencer.) Apparently, that is a no-no for this type of publication. So, we are in the process of doing it all over in an appropriate format. I thought the creative process would be the hardest part; that was a joy compared to the ins and outs of book making.
The first company printed my cover (see below) and inside was another author's story. They re-did it, correctly, but the layout was off.
If I knew then what I know now, I would have probably paid someone to do it for me. My goal was to have the book in my hands by the end of this year, I still have hope, and I will know better for the next time around.
Intermittent Fasting
The Doc's current work schedule dictates that he has every other week off. Which means we are ostensibly on vacation every other week. That, in itself, is glorious. The problem? No one needs to vacation-eat for two weeks out of every month. To (sort of) keep myself in check, I am trying to follow a strict plan during his 'on' weeks. I only eat from noon to eight, and I try to keep it between 1200-1400 calories. I drink an epic amount of calorie-free liquids. I attempt to keep my hangry in check. This plan has helped me shed ten pounds.
Now if I can only figure out how to say 'No' to cheesesteaks in Philly. (The magic eight ball says...Outlook Not Good.)
Tower of Babel
I absolutely fell in love with Paris. I plan on visiting that magical city often in my lifetime. I read a book (shocking) about French culture that stated the locals will be more friendly if you at least try to speak their language. With that in mind, we started using the Babbel app. I love the reviews (writing, speaking, flashcards) and the chance to practice out loud (with feedback) and to learn a little bit of history to boot.
My limited French was (appreciated?) tolerated. A few times we did too good of a job, and a friendly Frenchie would start a full-on conversation. Mon Dieu!
What new activity have you tried lately? Anything else I should be trying?
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