Whirlwind

on August 3, 2010
in All Posts

Well, so far, today has been a whirlwind.  I actually spent the morning shooting b-roll footage for The Today Show segment (which will be on Thursday at 10 AM).  This was a last-minute addition to my schedule, and although I am HAPPY to comply with pretty much anything they want, it threw a total monkey wrench in my plans.  Now I’ve got to make up for lost time!

 

A quick lunch – this only took 10 minutes from microwave to plate.  Can’t beat that!

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Olive bread with hummus spread:

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With real olives inside (from Great Harvest bakery, of course)!

 

Sweet potato and green beans, all cooked in the ‘wave:

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Toot-toot!  Check out today’s stop on the Operation Beautiful Virtual Book Tour!

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Today’s Virtual Book Tour is The Daily Spark.  The Daily Spark is SparkPeople.com’s healthy living blog, and I love it!  It’s informative, engaging, and there’s always something new to think about.  Stop by the blog to read what editor Stepfanie wishes she could tell her former self… and enter her giveaway for a chance to win a copy of my book!

And I’m off!

 

When your schedule is crazy, what keeps you sane? To Do Lists, Google Calendar, deep breathing, walking breaks?  Help – I need tips!

 

Oh – PS any NYC readers or bloggers that want to do a meet up tomorrow night at 8 PM, email me at seebriderun@gmail.com!

{ 84 comments }

 

  • Freya @ Brit Chick Runs August 3, 2010, 1:40 pm

    I find running helps when I’m stressed – a mental break – and to-do lists are SUPER helpful. It’s great to be able to cross stuff off 🙂
    Have a good afternoon!

  • Amanda August 3, 2010, 1:41 pm

    Lists are the only way I can fit everything into a week. Good luck. It’s hard when something unexpected throws off the day!

  • Rachel August 3, 2010, 1:43 pm

    Don’t forget to take a moment to soak it all in. I make sure I do that when big moments in my life are happening. Go into the bathroom, look at yourself in the mirror, and go “This is it. Soak it in!”

    • caitlin August 3, 2010, 2:20 pm

      Good advice!

  • Babycakes August 3, 2010, 1:44 pm

    I bought your book today! Posted a picture of my pup posing with it on your FB page. I’m excited for all the amazing things happening for you lately! 🙂

  • Sarah for Real August 3, 2010, 1:49 pm

    I’m a list maker. That way I know I haven’t forgotten anything and I feel like I’m getting somewhere when I can cross things off.

    Too freaking excited about Today, if I was east coast, I would skip work to watch it a little closer to live.

  • Heather (Heather's Dish) August 3, 2010, 1:54 pm

    i can only imagine how crazy your life is right now! i definitely swear by to-do lists, calendars, and meditation!

    • Samantha Angela @ Bikini Birthday August 3, 2010, 2:14 pm

      I agree with the meditation. Even just sitting in a quiet space for a minute or two alone with your thoughts without thinking of what else you need to do. It can be really liberating.

  • Evan Thomas August 3, 2010, 1:55 pm

    Definitely finding a time for a peaceful walk keeps me sane. Also squeezing in times with loved ones always helps.

  • Rachael @ Mrs-Adventure August 3, 2010, 1:55 pm

    I hate to repeat what everyone else has said but yeah I’m a total list maker when time gets short I would be lost without one!

    When I am stressed or just feeling a little “PMS” setting in I go for a run because god knows I need it :+)

  • Marilou @ Mostly Healthy August 3, 2010, 1:55 pm

    GUM! When I’m stressed out or in a whirlwind, I chew like it’s my last day on Earth ehehe 🙂

  • Holly @ couchpotatoathlete August 3, 2010, 1:56 pm

    I have to have a list. It keeps me sane and focused. I also do deep breathing if I start to feel completely overwhelmed. Or, I start with the easiest task, that way I feel good about finishing 1 thing and then have momentum to keep going through the whole list.

  • Ashley @ Will Run for Food August 3, 2010, 1:57 pm

    Definitely a to-do list! It feels so good to have a visual of everything that needs to be done and to cross items off!

  • shannon (the daily balance) August 3, 2010, 1:57 pm

    walking and iced tea breaks keep me sane for sure! If all else fails, i call my mom and vent 😉

  • Kelly August 3, 2010, 1:59 pm

    Stay till Friday, I want to meet you!

    • caitlin August 3, 2010, 2:21 pm

      I wish I had more free time on Thursday and Friday! BAH.

      • Clare August 3, 2010, 10:26 pm

        Me too, I can’t meet tomorrow night, boo. I saw Al Roker running in Central Park tonight! Tell him he’s kicking ass training for the NYC marathon! Have a wonderful time on Today! So many exclamation points!

  • Gavi @ GaviGetsGoing! August 3, 2010, 2:00 pm

    I can’t imagine the craziness! When things start to get hectic, I make (and follow!) detailed to-do lists, which ALWAYS include some sort of exercise. Even when I think I don’t have time for it, running and working out keeps me focused, positive, and clear-headed. Hang in there–you’re a rock star! 🙂

  • Sarena (The Non Dairy Queen) August 3, 2010, 2:00 pm

    DEEP BREATHS!!! For sure oh and chatting with my husband! He just made me feel so much better. He is my best friend. Sorry…I just went in a totally different direction on this one! I hope things go smoothly for the rest of your day!

  • Maria @ Oh Healthy Day August 3, 2010, 2:01 pm

    I find the sipping a cup of hot tea and starting my day off with a to-do list helps keep me calm. I also tell myself that I don’t HAVE to get everything done, I will do what I can. I also try to do something healthy for myself on days like that. Even if its a really short run or quick workout – it helps clear my mind.

  • Monique@FindingtheCouragetoChange August 3, 2010, 2:07 pm

    Definitely, definitely, definitely making a list and crossing things off! It makes me feel amazing….of course, that’s just me! Take some deep breaths. Live in the moment and enjoy it all. This is your FIRST BOOK release excitement. Try to remember all the wonderful details for your kiddos to be proud of you! ;-D

  • Megan (Braise The Roof) August 3, 2010, 2:07 pm

    It always helps me if I focus on just doing one thing at a time. I think a lot of women (myself included) try to multitask at all hours (I’m doing it right now- I’m eating my lunch as I type this!) and it can really make you feel bogged down. If you devote all of your attention to one task it tends to help!

  • Jessica August 3, 2010, 2:15 pm

    I like to-do lists alot. Pen and Paper works fine.

    Taking breaks works for me too. Whether its a nap, a run, meditating, a meal/snack, or yoga.

    I just found out I will be able to watch your Today show appearance online! I will be at work when it airs.

  • ashleigh August 3, 2010, 2:18 pm

    That olive bread looks so good!! I want some great harvest bread!

    When I am busy I always need to make to do lists!! I also need to remember to breathe and it’s ok if everything doesn’t go exactly as planned. Enjoy yourself!!

  • Tracy @ The Chameleon's Backbone August 3, 2010, 2:23 pm

    I remember my mother’s advice. When I would phone her in a tizzy of stress she would say “yes, everything needs to get done, but it doesn’t all have to get done right now.”

    She was right! I would write out everything I had to do, and separate it into MUST-DOs, and SHOULD-DOs. After looking at my list I usually realize that there is plenty of time in the day to do the MUSTS and everything else can wait if I can’t get to it.

    Good luck this week – you’ve got lots and lots of cheerleaders out here in cyber land!

  • Alyssa August 3, 2010, 2:24 pm

    I love food pics, specially when it’s something healthy and it totally gets me craving the good stuff instead of sweets! I’m just getting acquainted with your blog but it seems pretty impressive so far. Oh and I write to-do lists and use Outlook (tasks, calendar, email, etc.) to keep me organized.

  • eri August 3, 2010, 2:27 pm

    to-do lists! and sometimes (i know this isn’t the best advice, haha) sometimes i just say “ah, to hell with it!” and take some me-time and read blogs or watch tv 🙂

  • Katie (Sweet Tater) August 3, 2010, 2:29 pm

    hahaha. i’m so happy you just said “toot! toot!”

  • Cyndi @ Weightless Life August 3, 2010, 2:29 pm

    To keep myself on track when I have a hectic schedule I use my phone calendar, personal planner, and absolutely have to fit in some sort of me time so that I can relax. I know that if I don’t take time for myself it is just going to add to my stress, and then I’ll be no good to anyone.Can’t wait to see your segment on the Today Show!

  • Monica August 3, 2010, 2:29 pm

    Walks help me tremendously, even if it is just 10 minutes. I focus on little things like the color arrangement on a billboard, the way a kid is holding her Mom’s hand, etc. It helps me pull my mind away from overwhelming to-do lists waiting for me back at my desk and allows me to just get lost in the random moments of the day.

  • Liz @ Tip Top Shape August 3, 2010, 2:33 pm

    Making a list really helps me. Plus you get a sense of satisfaction when you get to cross something off. Mainly, though, I make sure to take little breaks. Even a five minute break can really clear your head. And make sure you don’t skip meals!! But since you are a food blogger that probably won’t be an issue, haha.

  • tanyasDaily ProductViews August 3, 2010, 2:44 pm

    enjoy it while you are in it!

  • Ellen@FirednFabulous August 3, 2010, 2:47 pm

    Olive bread? I’ve never seen that! Ohh and I WISH I could meet up…I have concert tix! Sad face.

  • Cynthia (It All Changes) August 3, 2010, 2:55 pm

    I would die without my to-do list. Today was wicked hectic and now I still know what has to get done. Without it I would have just given up and hid under the covers.

  • Caitlyn @ A Spoonful of Life August 3, 2010, 3:02 pm

    To-do lists are my savior. They help me organize my thoughts when things get chaotic and busy. Plus, they give a goal to reach! I also make sure to take a break from whatever I’m doing to clear my mind and regain my perspective. Sometimes I’ll go for a walk but other times I’ll just find someone to chat up a storm with!!

  • Camille August 3, 2010, 3:14 pm

    The only thing that is guaranteed to keep me sane is exercise. I must fit it in somewhere or I have no energy at all!

  • Stepf August 3, 2010, 3:24 pm

    Thanks for the shoutout, Caitlin. The dailySpark is SO happy to support you. As a “blend,” I’m so proud of you. 🙂

  • Summer August 3, 2010, 3:28 pm

    OMG, I want that bread. now. you should send me some down in Alabama 🙂

  • Kara @ MyWellnest August 3, 2010, 3:39 pm

    I just ordered your book!!!

    Lists keep me sane, lots of lists!!!

    • caitlin August 3, 2010, 3:48 pm

      Yay! Thank you!

  • Kelly August 3, 2010, 3:40 pm

    I’m a BIG to do list maker- I think its a teacher thing, we love lists haha.

    I also try to make time for exercise, as I’m sure you already do!

  • Heather @ The Single Dish August 3, 2010, 3:40 pm

    Are you by any chance going to the Martha Stewart NYC Blogger Event on Thursday night?

    Anyone going??

    • caitlin August 3, 2010, 3:48 pm

      Um I wish I was going!!!

      • Heather @ The Single Dish August 3, 2010, 3:52 pm

        #marthablogger, tweet that you want to go… they add people to the guest list! You never know!

  • Christy August 3, 2010, 3:41 pm

    Congrats on the success with your book! I also saw a giveaway on Shape.com. Did you know about that?

    • caitlin August 3, 2010, 3:48 pm

      Yes! Pretty fun!!

  • caitlin August 3, 2010, 4:09 pm

    very exciting about the today show. I love kathie lee and hoda!!

    I was at Target today and was going to buy your book, but I didn’t see it. I am goign to check B&N later this week!

  • Anya @ Fitness & Sunshine August 3, 2010, 4:16 pm

    On busy days I have everything planned by the hour. It helps keep me on track! But also within that plan I’ll schedule a break of come point just so I don’t go crazy.

    I hope the next couple days go OK for you, you can do it! 🙂

  • Amber K August 3, 2010, 4:17 pm

    Writing everything down helps organize my thoughts, otherwise I stress about forget something.

    You have SO much going on, but I bet it is exciting too!

  • anne August 3, 2010, 4:26 pm

    Is that 10am eastern time??

  • Lynna August 3, 2010, 4:27 pm

    Caitlin, I met you last year at Healthy Living Summit in Boston (I’m Katy of SillyTatorTot/KatyWidrick’s mom). I have watched this whole book adventure unfold for you and I just wanted to say I hope you enjoy every minute of this. It was a lot of work, but what a wonderful thing you have started. Very proud to know you…

    Lynna

  • stephanie@Avocado Nation August 3, 2010, 4:31 pm

    Hahahahaha. I wish I still lived in NYC so I could meet up! Anyway, just enjoy all of your success. You deserve it!

  • Hedda August 3, 2010, 4:32 pm

    You know what, Caitlin? If you ever become the President, you will bring with you one very important quality : amazing energy. You do so much, and are a true light in so many lives.

    When I am short of time I need my “To Do-lists”. Ticking off things I have finished give me a feeling of moving in the right direction and that I am one step closer to the goal.
    It also helps to take a short walk with my dog, just to clear my mind and get some peace.
    A advise that might make people think you have actually lost your sanity is to give yourself five minutes to dance around and sing, and by doing so releasing a lot of positive energy in your body. Haha – after that you are ready to conquer everything 😉

  • Julz @ freshman5k August 3, 2010, 4:48 pm

    When you have bread spread with something, do you leave it how it is photographed or do you spread it out better after shooting? Just wondering because my spreads (peanut butter, etc.) have to be evenly covering the entire bread slice! But I am a bit crazy 😉

    • caitlin August 3, 2010, 4:51 pm

      hahah i just shove it in my mouth.

  • Ashley August 3, 2010, 4:49 pm

    I just started using this online “to do” list called teuxdeux.com. I normally scratch down my to-do’s on a piece of paper…but that always ends up misplaced before I finish the list. I like having this online b/c I can quickly add things and you can also cross things off your list. If you don’t finish something it automatically moves to the next day. It seems odd but it has seriously been helping me stay focused. I don’t have a 9-5 and am always doing a million things throughout the day. Good luck Caitlin. Can’t wait to get your book. Can’t wait to see The Today Show. And, can’t wait to meet you next week. All the best to you!

    • caitlin August 3, 2010, 4:52 pm

      cant wait to meet you either!

  • kristin August 3, 2010, 4:50 pm

    hey lady! congrats on the book release today! dont forget to take a moment to yourself and soak it all in 🙂 CANT WAIT TO READ THE BOOK! I plan on buying it this week!

  • Ashley Solomon @ Nourishing the Soul August 3, 2010, 4:54 pm

    So excited to read the book!

    When I’m feeling overwhelmed I think it’s important to do a little mindfulness exercise to center myself. I’m much more productive when my mind and emotions aren’t all over the place!

  • Meghan@traveleatlove August 3, 2010, 4:57 pm

    Lists and imagining accomplishing one thing at a time, even if that’s not possible, helps me.

  • Meghan@traveleatlove August 3, 2010, 4:57 pm

    Lists and imagining accomplishing one thing at a time, even if that’s not possible, helps me.

  • Catherine August 3, 2010, 5:11 pm

    I am a huge fan of To-Do Lists. Seeing all the tasks that need to be done in writing helps me get organized, and checking them off always makes me feel accomplished. 🙂

  • Lisa (bakebikeblog) August 3, 2010, 5:33 pm

    how very very excting!! I really am so happy for you 🙂

  • amanda August 3, 2010, 5:39 pm

    Woo hoo! Exciting! Have you met any celebrities yet?

    This is unrelated, but: Whew — so I just tried NMTZ for the first time. I only made it through 2 circuits! Dang!

  • Callie August 3, 2010, 5:56 pm

    Congrats on the book release! 🙂
    It really helps me to have a to-do list and be able to cross out the tasks.

  • Kiersten August 3, 2010, 6:06 pm

    Taking a long walk or reading a book

  • Nancy @ The Wife of a Dairyman August 3, 2010, 6:54 pm

    I’ll be sure to watch the Today Show on Thursday….how exciting for you! Congratulations!

  • Annie@stronghealthyfit August 3, 2010, 7:18 pm

    Eating balanced meals (and doing the planning and prep to make sure I can do so) keeps me balanced and sane when I am super busy.

  • Emily August 3, 2010, 7:51 pm

    Thankfully discovered your blog recently amidst all the blogger excitement about your book. This is so incredible and I cannot wait to get myself a copy of it and check out your segment on the Today show, good luck with everything!!!

    • Caitlin August 3, 2010, 7:54 pm

      Welcome to HTP!

  • Michelle @ Give Me the Almond Butter August 3, 2010, 7:56 pm

    I always keep my journal with me if my laptop can’t go where I’m going. If I have an idea, a food to add to my grocery shopping list, or a to-do item I just add it in there, then add it to my evernote when I get home.

  • Robyn August 3, 2010, 7:57 pm

    Deep breathing helps, so does coffee. On second thought, be careful with the coffee . . . too much and you’ll never sleep.

    In college, I was a lister. I still am a lister (I rely heavily on Remember The Milk – http://www.rememberthemilk.com), but it was at a whole new level in college – my lists were categorized AND color-coded.

    On the not-organization-related end of the spectrum, a big, strong HUG does WONDERS for me when I’m uber-stressed. Namely, from my boyfriend or my best friend. Sadly, they both far away, so that doesn’t always happen, but I try to get a good hug in from just about any friend when I’m pretty stressed out.

  • Jasmine @ Eat Move Write August 3, 2010, 8:00 pm

    Yay Caitlin! I checked at B&N this morning AGAIN and they still hadn’t put your book on the shelves, but they confirmed it had just arrived and would go up sometime today. I’m so excited to see it!

  • Melissa August 3, 2010, 8:02 pm

    I know this might be an odd question but I’ve recently found a liking to sweet potatoes. I was wondering how you microwave them?

  • Angie Mae August 3, 2010, 8:05 pm

    I’ve only been following your blog for about 5 months and have never commented but I love it and I love seeing you on SP!!! I am so excited for you!! Can’t wait to get the book!

    I like to make lists when I’m stressed and have too much to do… keeps me in line 🙂

  • Allie @ CookReadRun August 3, 2010, 8:43 pm

    To-Do lists! But hour by hour so I can’t get all side-tracked!

    And I love kalamata olive bread sooo much. I wish I could find some around here!!

  • Kim August 3, 2010, 8:59 pm

    Hi there!

    I started reading your blog about a month ago and I really enjoy it! I have Daily Spark on my phone and when I looked at it this morning it had the Operation Beautiful post on it! I actually got really excited! Oh and I just discovered sweet potatoes and I can’t believe I went my entire life with out them! So yummy!!!

  • M August 3, 2010, 9:03 pm

    I don’t have cable here in Canada and won’t get to see the Today show(and I am sure many other readers have to work when it is on).
    Will you be posting a video of your appearance on your blog?
    Say hi to Matt and Meredith (or is it Hoda and Kathy Leee???)

    • Caitlin August 3, 2010, 9:07 pm

      I will say hi!! 🙂

  • eatmovelove August 3, 2010, 9:05 pm

    The Today show??? OMG – my favorite show!!! Booo – I work all day and won’t see it though…BUT GOOD LUCK!!! Maybe I can catch it online or something…

  • Chelsea @ One Healthy Munchkin August 3, 2010, 9:21 pm

    I tried to buy your book today, but my local bookstores aren’t getting it until August 10th. Such a bummer!

    Sleep is my key to getting through hectic times! 🙂

  • Jolene (www.everydayfoodie.ca) August 4, 2010, 2:07 pm

    That olive bread looks good!!!!!

    I use a paper calender to stay organized – and I make lists.

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