62 Days Ago
Sixty-two days ago, I made a list:
- More time
- Better commute
- Cheaper cost of living
- Easy access to the city
- Easy access to gym
- More focus on blog
- Pug
- Travel money
- Healthy food
- Active social life
- Friends and family nearby
- Enough money
- Laundry
At the time, I was feeling pretty down-in-the-dumps about my life. Mal and I had just rescinded our offer on a house and I was totally overwhelmed by my lack of a work-life balance. Even though there wasn’t really anything wrong with my life, I just knew I could be happier. Basically, if I could paint a picture of my “perfect” life, this list would include a number of its elements.
So, 62 days ago, I set out to improve my life:
- I moved closer to Boston for easier access to the city and a better commute to work
- I found an apartment with in-unit laundry and a gym 0.04 miles away
- I finally got my PUG!!! I love Murphy!
Unfortunately, a cheaper cost of living is not likely living in Boston and some of the items on my list didn’t need to be changed (healthy food, active social life, friends and family nearby), but there were still a number of things I wanted to improve– and they all seemed to be tied together. Do you see where I am going with this? 
I have to admit that I’ve never had a clear idea of what I wanted to do with my life. (Remember when I almost became a personal trainer?) I also never realized how important it is do what you love. Of course, I had a number of great jobs over the years, but deep-down, I knew none of them were the perfect fit. Plus, sitting behind a desk for 40 hours a week never really “fueled” me, ya know?
Blogging has truly changed my life. When I first started out, I never intended for it to become my career, but I always thought “what if?”
Part II to come soon…
Dinner
Yummy dinner tonight! I love it when you just throw a bunch of ingredients together and the meal turns out well!
I started with the following ingredients:
- Boil-in-Bag brown rice
- 6 oz. jar of marinated artichokes
- 4 green peppers (from my mom’s garden!)
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Handful of parsley
- Fresh squeezed juice from 1/2 a lemon
- Breadcrumbs
With these ingredients, I made delicious stuffed peppers! 
How to: After cooking the rice, I combined it with the rest of the ingredients (minus the breadcrumbs) in a large bowl. I removed the tops of the peppers, cleaned out the insides, and filled them with the rice mixture. I topped the stuffed peppers with breadcrumbs and baked on 350* F for 25-30 minutes until the tops of the peppers started to brown.
They were SO good! And easy to make!
Dessert
For dessert, I whipped-up a Silken Vanilla Cake using Nasoya’s Silken Style Creations. This time, I added peanut butter and chocolate chips to the cake. Holy yum!
I ended up eating a second piece. It was so delicious!
Nasoya Giveaway Winners
Thanks to everyone who entered the Nasoya Giveaway to win 10 coupons for free products.
Here are the Random Integer’s picks: 279 170
Congrats! Winners, please email me your full name and mailing address.
Geneviève — October 5, 2009 @ 8:02 pm
Tina!! I’ve been following you for a long time…. you, Mal and Murphy are amazing!! Thanks for sharing your life with us… I have to tell you, your post today is inspiring… I’m feeling how you felt 62 days ago, you motivated me to put together my list…
Thank you!!!
Weekly Bite — October 5, 2009 @ 8:02 pm
What’s the good news?!?! We’re dying here!!!!
Dinner looks great by the way
I love stuffed peppers!
Food Makes Fun Fuel — October 5, 2009 @ 8:04 pm
This is like the vision board you always hear about on Oprah, how exciting!
I really hope to try that super simple blondie recipe some day
Joy — October 5, 2009 @ 8:06 pm
I can’t wait for part 2…
Katey — October 5, 2009 @ 8:07 pm
That cake looks so good!!!!! good for you for getting things in line!
homecookedem — October 5, 2009 @ 8:09 pm
Looking forward to hearing the big news!!
Sarah @ The Foodie Diaries — October 5, 2009 @ 8:09 pm
Ahhh the anticipation!!!
Jenna — October 5, 2009 @ 8:10 pm
i can’t wait to read part 2!!
i love love love stuffed peppers!! delightful!
Katherine — October 5, 2009 @ 8:10 pm
tina, i also made a list about the same time as you. i am now pursuing a private practice as a movement therapist. you are slowly inspiring me to get my blog on…i hope i can make it happen and write what i am passionate about: mindfulness and movement! kudos to you for following your heart and soul.
Jessica @ How Sweet It Is — October 5, 2009 @ 8:10 pm
Congrats! Cant wait to read more!!!
Morgan @ Life After Bagels — October 5, 2009 @ 8:11 pm
Oh Tina I am hanging by a thread, I can’t wait to hear the rest.
angieinatlanta — October 5, 2009 @ 8:13 pm
Oh my goodness, I am dying in suspense over here! I can’t wait to hear more!!
Courtney (The Hungry Yogini) — October 5, 2009 @ 8:13 pm
Oooh, I’m intrigued. The power of the mind…it’s amazing what we can manifest in our lives. Seems you have created the life you have always wanted. So beautiful!
Jenna — October 5, 2009 @ 8:16 pm
well i didn’t win the giveaway!
can’t wait to hear about the second part of your news!
and those stuffed peppers look soo good
jenna
Marla — October 5, 2009 @ 8:17 pm
So many of us are intrigued how you will make a full time income in a blogging related way…..I guess many would like to do the same.
Hope you won’t have to “plug ” too many products.
(that is the one part I don’t like ,when my fave bloggers plug products….just not my thing to read.Enough ads already in our world!)
We are anxious to read your new job before we all go to bed!!!?????
noodlegirl — October 5, 2009 @ 8:22 pm
I made a list before moving back to Hawaii too. Ha of course cost of living is a killer here! I am sure whatever you have planned next will be great!
Grapeful — October 5, 2009 @ 8:23 pm
Tina, I follow your blog regularly but don’t always have the time to comment. I just wanted to say that I LOVE how you share the “regular” details of healthy meals mixed in with some of your life decisions. Reading blogs have certainly impacted me, and I can only imagine the positive impact being a popular blogger has been for you. Good luck with whatever your decide, but please please keep on posting! Good night!
Allison — October 5, 2009 @ 8:25 pm
I’m excited for you, Tina! I’ve been reading for over a year, and you and other bloggers have inspired me to start my own blog. I feel the same way you did 62 days ago – this is my first step!
MelissaNibbles — October 5, 2009 @ 8:28 pm
I just made stuffed peppers last week. They’re one of my favorite dishes and so easy to make.
I can’t wait for part 2 of the good news!
Meghann — October 5, 2009 @ 8:29 pm
You’re my hero! If you can do it, I know I can do it too!
Meghan@traveleatlove — October 5, 2009 @ 8:30 pm
Looking forward to Part 2. I have to say I have been in a very similar mindset recently, and when my husband lost his job 2 weeks ago the thought came up to leave mine so we could travel 6 weeks or so. . . well it has been more than thought provoking!
carolyn — October 5, 2009 @ 8:34 pm
ok, now this is just too much build up…I know it must be really really good.
maria — October 5, 2009 @ 8:37 pm
I’m listening! Now keep going!
So unfair to keep me on the edge like this! Can’t wait to find out the big news. Everyone in the blog world seems to have some big news here lately.
Kelsey — October 5, 2009 @ 8:40 pm
i am so excited to hear the big news!!!! even though i don’t ‘know’ you, i feel as if i really do and i am so happy for you. you deserve it!!
Susan — October 5, 2009 @ 8:42 pm
Awwwww! Your killing me over here ! can’t wait for Part II ! that cake sounds and loos yummy BTW !
MB — October 5, 2009 @ 8:45 pm
You are such a tease!
I need to make a list and do something about it. I’m not sure but I think you may be my hero. I guess I’ll have to wait until Part II to find out.
Sarah R — October 5, 2009 @ 8:48 pm
Sitting on the edge of my seat over here in anticipation!! I made some stuffed peppers the other night–so yummy!
amanda @ fake ginger — October 5, 2009 @ 8:50 pm
Oh man, I hope part 2 is coming first thing in morning! I’m excited to hear!
That cake looks delicious and so good for you!
Julie @ Peanut Butter Fingers — October 5, 2009 @ 8:51 pm
hurry hurry and update part to… you’re killin’ us smalls!
Julie @ Peanut Butter Fingers — October 5, 2009 @ 8:51 pm
hurry hurry and update part two… you’re killin’ me smalls!
Amelia — October 5, 2009 @ 8:53 pm
How incredible! I’m excited to hear what you’re going to be up to. Your list looks like a great way to prioritize what’s important to you and the things that HAD to change.
Lizzy — October 5, 2009 @ 8:58 pm
I can’t wait to see part 2…this list is really an inspiration, and i think i need to start my own. thank you for being so inspiring!
Tracy — October 5, 2009 @ 9:02 pm
Don’t leave us hanging! Post part 2 in the morning!
K — October 5, 2009 @ 9:03 pm
You’re such a tease – I can’t wait to hear what’s going on!! Your list is so inspiring!
Danielle J — October 5, 2009 @ 9:05 pm
Can’t wait to hear all about your big decision!
Caroline — October 5, 2009 @ 9:13 pm
Your post gave me chills.
Sarah — October 5, 2009 @ 9:17 pm
Oh you are teasing us! But I totally get it. I am so proud of you. I have made a list like that many times but did NOTHING about it. Hopefully I can get focused on my goals. I’m currently sitting behind a desk full-time and pretty much bust the door down on my way out because that sort of environment is so not for me anymore.
I am inspired by you, Caitlin, Jenna and others who have really taken HUGE steps in your lives to get to a happier place. I can’t wait to see the next part
Erin — October 5, 2009 @ 9:21 pm
Super excited to hear what’s next (obviously it involved leaving your job!). I concur with the behind the desk job. It’s not something I can see myself doing forever at ALL. I’m in the middle of my quarter life change – trying to figure out what steps to take and all that. Your thoughts about never really knowing what you want to do and finding the perfect fit – totally me!! Thanks for always being honest and truthful in your posts
sue — October 5, 2009 @ 9:23 pm
gotta agree with everyone! you’re a tease! haha…can’t wait to hear the good news..hopefully soon!
Lee — October 5, 2009 @ 9:24 pm
I wanna know!
Stephanie — October 5, 2009 @ 9:27 pm
ahhh I want to hear more, the suspense!! love love love stuffed peppers, these look excellent
brandi — October 5, 2009 @ 9:27 pm
i love stuffed peppers.
and such a tease! can’t wait to read the rest
Shannon (The Daily Balance) — October 5, 2009 @ 9:44 pm
you little tease! I want part two NOW!
Emily (A Nutritionist Eats) — October 5, 2009 @ 9:44 pm
Good for you for doing what you want/need to in life! can certainly take a lesson in that!
emily - eatventures — October 5, 2009 @ 9:47 pm
Congrats! I have a similar list, and I decided to quit teaching this year. Now though, I have a list of 5+ majorly different career choices and I’ll be damned if I know which one I want to pick!
Joelle (The Pancake Girl) — October 5, 2009 @ 9:47 pm
Goodness, I love lists, and checking stuff off… I make a to-do list all the time, and now that I’m extra busy this semester it’s been every few days haha. Btw, congrats on making the big decision to resign.. it takes inner strength and determination.
Lauren (athlEAT) — October 5, 2009 @ 9:49 pm
The suspense is killing me!
. What a great dessert.
maria — October 5, 2009 @ 9:53 pm
I have the same feelings as you did. I don’t hate my job, but something has to change. I am glad everything is working out for you. I can’t wait to hear more and what a tasty meal!
Brittany — October 5, 2009 @ 9:53 pm
Although I don’t know what job offer you received, I am so happy for you!! Such a cliff hanger- I can’t wait for the next post.
Kat (Kat's Daily Plate) — October 5, 2009 @ 9:54 pm
Congrats on following your dreams, resigning from your job, and pursuing what you love. I can’t wait to hear all about your plans… suspense!!
Lauren — October 5, 2009 @ 9:56 pm
I also made stuffed peppers tonight (but mine had meat)! Looking forward to hearing what you’ll be up to!
Melissa (Melissa Likes To Eat) — October 5, 2009 @ 10:13 pm
Don’t leave us hanging!!!!!!
Your dinner looks good, btw. 
Meredith (Pursuing Balance) — October 5, 2009 @ 10:14 pm
How exciting! Can’t wait to hear more!
Ali — October 5, 2009 @ 10:32 pm
Ok, I am on pins here…can’t wait for part 2. We still on for Thursday?!
Emily — October 5, 2009 @ 10:33 pm
Dinner looks delicious – I love bell peppers.
My second date with my boyfriend I made stuffed peppers. At the time he ate them happily (so I thought) and now we’ve been together more than 5 years. Turns out he HATES peppers but he didn’t want to disappoint me!
BTW, we met at the Healthworks gathering – I’ve officially started my own blog! Thanks for all the information.
Ellen (Peace In Motion) — October 5, 2009 @ 10:36 pm
The cake looks TDF! Congrats on crossing so many things off your list.
Janna from Just Flourishing — October 5, 2009 @ 10:54 pm
Wow… so suspenseful! I want to hear part II!
Stuffed peppers are on my meal plan for dinner this week… I’ve seen them floating around the blog and they always look delicious (yours are no exception!), so I’m going to give them a try.
my kashi diet — October 5, 2009 @ 11:46 pm
60 days from now will come wether you make changes or not, why not make a few changes and see what 60 days can do
Laura @ Backstage Pass to Health & Happiness — October 5, 2009 @ 11:50 pm
Can’t wait to hear the rest of your story! Stuffed peppers look fab.
Nicole — October 5, 2009 @ 11:56 pm
Loved that quick and easy idea for dinner. Please tell us about your news…we’re dying to find out
Lynn (The Actors Diet) — October 6, 2009 @ 12:04 am
what an inspiring post! can’t wait to hear what’s going on w/ your career future!
Madelin @ What is for breakfast? — October 6, 2009 @ 12:19 am
Can’t wait for Part 2 – love hearing about all the career changes happening in blogland! Good luck – how exciting for you
noelle — October 6, 2009 @ 12:37 am
I’m so excited to find out what’s next! The suspense is terrible! Perhaps a winter healthy living summit??
Emmanuelle — October 6, 2009 @ 5:32 am
Hi Tina!
I’ve been reading your blog for a few months but never commented so far. But the suspense is killing me!
I totally understand where you are coming from, I am at the same place right now, and all these changes happening in the blog world are such an inspiration!
I can’t wait to hear the full story :-d
Naomi (onefitfoodie) — October 6, 2009 @ 6:11 am
everything looks so amazing! and you have come such a long way. So many of us have been with you through your move and murphy and transformations. It is so great to hear whhat your blog has doen for you and how it has helped you so much.
cant wait to hear about part 2!
also-the stuffed peppers look AMAZING!!!
Emily @ The Experimentarian — October 6, 2009 @ 7:41 am
Tina, you are the master of suspense!
Love the list–I think I need to make one of my own!
Jess — October 6, 2009 @ 8:40 am
I’m dying to figure out what the big news is – congrats on quitting your job though!
Marija — October 6, 2009 @ 9:25 am
Can’t wait to hear the continuation of your story…
Also, I must say that these peppers look absolutely, fantastically, deliciously yummy! I’ll definitely try them out soon.
Madeleine @ Notes On A Page — October 6, 2009 @ 9:44 am
You certainly know how to keep the suspense! Whatever life throws at ya, it will work out. Sometimes big changes are the best thing in the long run.
Nicole (dishin') — October 6, 2009 @ 9:44 am
Sounds like you’re making all the right steps. It’s really an inspiration. Can’t wait to hear more.
Love your dinner – yumm!
Megan M. — October 6, 2009 @ 9:58 am
Congrats on the life changes! And I love how nearby laundy is on your list. It’s amazing what a difference little things can make!
Diana — October 6, 2009 @ 10:11 am
Those stuffed peppers look divine!
Tina — October 6, 2009 @ 11:39 am
Man I’ve always wanted to try stuffed peppers and yours look awesome!
I totally agree on the “not knowing what I want to do with my life”. I mean, I’m only 17, but it feels like there’s so much pressure to know EXACTLY where you’re headed. Who knows! I just wanna see where life takes me
julia — October 6, 2009 @ 11:55 am
Those peppers look great! I recently created a very similar recipe for stuffed portabella mushrooms. I think the only difference is that mine had spinach and no rice. With salad they make a great dinner but I like the idea of bulking it up with rice!
Sassy Molassy — October 6, 2009 @ 12:38 pm
Writing it down and making it happen (i own the book, which i’ve never read)…it’s such a genius idea. And really, why not? You deserve what you WANT in life. SO why not GO FOR IT?! I’m really impressed with those who say “this is not good enough and i’m going to do something about it.” I’m still working on having the confidence to do so, but i know it’s in me deep down somewhere. I should not be settling less for than what i deserve and desire in life. Thanks for the great reminder!
Laura@FindingAHealthyBalance — October 6, 2009 @ 5:07 pm
I just had to tell you that I really love all your “lists”!!! I am a huge list person too…….always have been since I was a kid actually. I find it just feels better to write it down and even better when you can cross things off the list. =) Laura
Emily @ The Happy Home — August 3, 2010 @ 2:14 pm
ok, you’re inspiring me! i need to sit down and make one of these lists, completely!