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Home » Lifestyle » Personal

November 13, 2015 (Updated March 20, 2023)

Virtual Coffee Date

by Anne Mauney, MPH, RD

29 comments
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One of my favorite features on other blogs is virtual coffee date posts. Basically – what I would tell you if we were having a coffee/tea date today. It’s always fun to see behind the curtain a little bit and to hear what’s going on in people’s lives outside of the day to day madness. So, grab a drink and cozy up – let’s chat. Except that actually, if we were having coffee/tea today, we’d be outside walking with our drinks. It’s too nice out to stay indoors. 🙂

virtual coffee date

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If we were having coffee today, I’d tell you that I can’t wait for the holidays. We’re spending Thanksgiving in Pittsburgh with Matt’s family, and my parents and brother are joining us as well. Matt’s parents do Thanksgiving right – it’s always a festive and delicious occasion and a nice little vacation away. Christmas should be equally awesome – we’re not traveling, spending the holiday with my family here in the area. My brother will be coming in as well, and a lot of my high school friends are always back in town for the occasion, which makes my heart happy.

If we were having coffee today, I’d tell you that my Girls on the Run group has their practice 5k coming up on Monday. I’ve been disappointed in the organization of my local chapter (I still haven’t been getting any of the coaches emails, which is maddening), but the girls at our school are super sweet and enthusiastic and I can’t wait to watch them run their hearts out on Monday. The big real 5k race they’ve been training for is next weekend! I can’t believe how quickly the season flew by. I’ve always wanted to coach for GOTR and I’m so glad I finally squeezed it into my schedule. I don’t think I’ll be able to continue for spring because I’m so busy with work in the new year timeframe, but I’m happy I was able to make it work this fall.

If we were having coffee today, I’d tell you that I’ve been working to embrace stillness a bit more recently. Working for myself is amazing, and I love it. I love blogging, I love working with clients through my AnneTheRD private practice, I love being my own boss. But lately I’ve felt a bit like I’m in quicksand and can never get to the bottom of the to do list, especially with relation to email and blog-related work. The second I send out an email, 5 more come in. The moment I finish a blog post, there’s another one to write. If I finish a few blog posts, there’s old blog pages to update, and always social media – more places to share, more places to engage, more I should be doing that I’m not. Over the past year or so I’ve been really trying to take things off my plate –  decreasing client volume so I have more time to dedicate to the clients I do have, saying no to extra partnerships, work, and trips that I don’t think will serve me well. You guys know I like being busy – I thrive on it – but it’s hard to find the right balance between productivity and restorative time so that I’m energized and engaged but not totally worn out. I think the hardest thing for me is not feeling guilty when I’m relaxing instead of being productive. I’m good at checking out/relaxing when I’m with friends or out and about or traveling or hanging out with Matt, but I have always had a hard time just sitting still. This constant need to feel like I’m doing something is probably what makes me a good entrepreneur, to be honest – but when you work for yourself and there’s always more to do, it’s hard to force yourself to take a deep breath and chill out. One thing I always remind my clients is that they are enough – they are doing the best they can, and there’s no reason to feel guilty for not being productive every second of every day. But it’s always hard to take our own advice, huh? I think a new goal for me is going to be to start meditating – I think it will help with the feeling of constantly having to be DOING.

If we were having coffee today, I’d tell you about one work-related thing that I have decided to add to my plate recently that I am really excited about. I’m in the beginning stages of developing a 6 week intuitive/mindful eating group program with fellow dietitians Rachael and Alex. It’s everything I’ve been wanting to create for a long time now but didn’t have the motivation/time to tackle on my own. We’re hoping to run the first 6 week program in spring, and I’m so happy to be collaborating with women who are as passionate about improving people’s relationships with food and their bodies as I am. 🙂

If we were having coffee today, I’d tell you about another thing that has helped me to feel more whole/energized in my business life: starting an additional mastermind group. Working for yourself, while awesome, can also can be really isolating, and it always helps a ton to have “coworkers” (even virtual ones) to collaborate/work things through with. So I now have a new mastermind group with 3 fellow dietitians (Kylie, Rachael, and Robyn) that do similar work in their private practices (intuitive/emotional eating and disordered eating/eating disorders), and we’re meeting every other week via video chat to discuss counseling-related situations, provide advice to each other, etc. For now, we’re assigning one person each week to present a case study of a current/former client (without identifying personal information, obviously), and then all sharing tips/collaborating on next steps, how to break through challenging situations, etc. We’ve only had 2 sessions so far but it has already been really helpful – not only for advice/idea sharing, but also to find that others struggle with similar things that I do in my work. Always nice to know you’re not alone. 🙂

If we were having coffee today, I’d tell you that I had a really fun dinner last night with my mom. A few times now on nights when Matt is going straight to soccer after work, I’ve invited my mom over to make a Blue Apron dinner with me. It’s such a fun way to catch up and I feel so lucky that she lives close to us and we’re able to get together often. Last night, we made Crispy Cod & Spiced Couscous with Acorn Squash & Rainbow Chard. Delicious.

IMG_8731

If we were having coffee today, I’d tell you that I’m looking forward to a relaxing weekend here in DC. I think some hiking might be in order – don’t you?

Now it’s your turn – if we were having coffee today, what would you tell me?

- anne
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29 comments
  • Shel@PeachyPalate
    November 13, 2015 · 6:15PM:
    Always hiking :) I'd tell you that I'm SUPER excited about my partnership with Froothie and the blender that rivals a Vitamix that is currently on it's way to me! I'd tell you that I made the most AWESOME cottage pie ever this morning with cauliflower buttery mash topping and slow cooked chuck beef base complete with homemade bone broth! I'd tell you that I HATE the cold...it's gone from an unusual 18C last week to 3C here in Ireland today...feels so cold with the wind factor! That cod looks incredible btw!
    Reply
    • Anne
      November 14, 2015 · 9:05AM:
      Enjoy that blender - and stay warm over there!
      Reply
  • Hillary | Nutrition Nut on the Run
    November 13, 2015 · 6:17PM:
    So many fun things on your plate right now. I'll be interested to hear more about the mindful/intuitive eating group... And, yes -- you, too, are ENOUGH. I can relate to the guilty feeling when we aren't "doing" anything, but there is reason we must rest :)
    Reply
    • Anne
      November 14, 2015 · 9:05AM:
      Thank you :)
      Reply
  • masala girl
    November 13, 2015 · 7:12PM:
    so much to share! my comments, one by one :) -i'm so exctied for thanksgiving, too! it is my favorite because you truly focus on family (and good food!) not presents or anything. i love cooking with them :) and i LOVE hearing about your gatherings with Matt's family! they make some awesome food and for awesome stories! :) - you do SO much and I admire that! i remember a few years ago, i think after WSU '13, you felt similarly and stepped back. i hope you're not in over your head too much Anne :) everything you do is worthwhile and remember YOU TIME is worthwhile also!! dont stress too much and enjoy the holiday season :) I hope one day i can have my own business, too! - that 6 week intuitive/mindful eating session sounds really good! please keep us updates :) and love the collaboration. - i miss cooking with my family. that's nice your mom is able to come over :) - as I said, I CANNOT WAIT for break! My wednesday classes are canceled and my tuesday classs ends that week, so i get an extra long break! I'm going to get to go home early, do some orange theory, go back to my own Y, see friends, and COOK and be with family and my cats! :) (how is Zara?!) - before that, i have to get through an ochem exam! :( but i want to blog. i'm writing about natural remedies i use when i feel sick that really help :) but back to studying, hope you have a good weekend!
    Reply
    • Anne
      November 14, 2015 · 9:06AM:
      Thank you so much! What a kind comment. :) Have an amazing time with your family for Thanksgiving - and enjoy the break, too! In the meantime - - good luck with that ochem exam :)
      Reply
  • Carly McLeod November 13, 2015 · 11:03PM:
    I like these posts, too :) I'd tell you that I love being back teaching, after taking a year off. I'd also tell you I had the worst motivated week for working out that I've had in a LONG time. I got in a lovely yoga class this afternoon though, so I feel ready to rock at crossfit in the morning - back to it! And lastly id tell you I am so excited about the kitchen Reno that we have starting this weekend! Happy weekend, Anne!
    Reply
    • Anne
      November 14, 2015 · 9:06AM:
      Good luck with the kitchen reno -- that's exciting! And glad to hear your week is turning around. Enjoy CrossFit today :)
      Reply
  • Sabrina November 14, 2015 · 12:38PM:
    I'm only 6 classes and an internship away from being an RD. While I love that my program is online and alows me to still work full time I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed and isolated from my fellow students at the moment. I love the idea of what I'm working towards but being alone in it is hard right now.
    Reply
    • Anne
      November 14, 2015 · 5:31PM:
      Hang in there, Sabrina! You're so close. <3
      Reply
  • Rachael@AvocadoADayNutrition
    November 14, 2015 · 2:05PM:
    Love that I've had so many reasons to have REAL virtual coffee (or kombucha!) dates with you! Have an awesome weekend!
    Reply
    • Anne
      November 14, 2015 · 5:30PM:
      Loving all the collaborating we've been doing lately!! <3 <3
      Reply
  • Susan November 14, 2015 · 2:22PM:
    I would tell you that my Starbucks "Istanbul" mug shattered one hour after purchase when I tripped on one of the Spice Market's high curbs and my bag hit the cobblestone street! Your picture reminded me what a bummer that was . . . But Istanbul was amazing . . .
    Reply
    • Anne
      November 14, 2015 · 5:30PM:
      Awww bummer!!
      Reply
  • Erin M. November 14, 2015 · 5:25PM:
    I love these posts. I totally relate to the quicksand feeling. I'm trying to practice being more mindful everyday and it is challenging, but I feel like it helps to calm me. Also, I just pulled sourdough cinnamon rolls out of my oven and smothered them with cream cheese frosting. I want to do a face plant into them. Have a great weekend!! :)
    Reply
    • Anne
      November 14, 2015 · 5:30PM:
      Those sound amazing - wish I could try them! Enjoy!
      Reply
  • Susan Kahrs November 14, 2015 · 6:58PM:
    Hi Anne! I hope you are well. If you are interested in meditation, check out the HeadSpace app. The first ten sessions are free so you can see if you like the program before investing. :) Sue
    Reply
    • Anne
      November 15, 2015 · 3:22PM:
      Thanks, Sue! Great to hear from you - hope you're doing well! Thanks for the rec!
      Reply
  • Sam @ Grapefruit & Granola
    November 14, 2015 · 10:16PM:
    That's awesome about your mastermind group. I sometimes think it would be fun to have my RD practice, but I really love the resources I have through my fellow dietitians where I work now.
    Reply
    • Anne
      November 15, 2015 · 3:22PM:
      Definitely pros and cons to both :)
      Reply
  • sally @ sweat out the small stuff
    November 15, 2015 · 9:51AM:
    Well, I am actually sipping my Sunday morning coffee right now so this is perfect... I'd tell you that I feel so much of the same that you do as far as feeling a little bit like I'm in quicksand and needing some restorative time. I'm sitting here now relaxing and reading blogs and feeling guilty for not being up and about getting some chores and freelance work done. I really want to coach for GOTR too and just never seem to have the time. It's still a goal I hope to make a reality soon. My boyfriend's daughters are in it and have their big 5k in just a couple of weeks. Let us know how you go about separating your restorative and productive :)
    Reply
  • Kendall
    November 15, 2015 · 9:52PM:
    Love the update, and looking forward to hearing more about the mindfulness project! I'd tell you that I just registered for a 10K coming up in three weeks (I run a few times a week but this is the first race I'll have done in something like 2.5 years). I've worked my way down to some sub-8 minute mile paces lately so my time goal is 49 minutes. Wish me luck!
    Reply
    • Anne
      November 16, 2015 · 8:46AM:
      So exciting! GOOD LUCK! And have fun out there :)
      Reply
  • Kris S November 16, 2015 · 4:53AM:
    Love this post!! :D Hi to your Mom, I haven't seen her since your wedding! Very cool to hear about the new intuitive eating program! Keep your readers posted!! As for the 'always feeling the need to be busy' thing- I relate to this 100%, it's a huge problem for me too. There is always more to do! Being in Europe, that attitude is very much a culture clash with here, where taking time to relax is sort of built in to the way of life. So I'm trying to embrace that spirit ;) I've been trying to be strict about not doing work when I shouldn't be (for me I have a no work at home rule, and my bed should be only for relaxing, not for stressful stuff!) and trying to make more time for exercise and yoga. I'm interested in the idea of meditation too, let me know how it goes. I'm not religious anymore, but one thing which I miss from those days (besides singing all the time!) was prayer- it's actually really calming to just sit alone and think, and breathe.
    Reply
    • Anne
      November 16, 2015 · 8:49AM:
      Yeah -- I feel like meditation is a good sort of calming spiritual thing for those of us that aren't religious. I'll report back on how it goes... going to start this week! Yoga is definitely another form of meditation/calming time for me, too - one of the reasons I love it so much. Love that you are working to separate life and work, too -- so important! Europe definitely does that better than the US, that's for sure.
      Reply
  • Marisa Tomasella November 16, 2015 · 5:54PM:
    What a wonderfully honest post! The best kind to read; it is as if we are reading a page in your journal. Thank YOU for all YOU do! Why is it that people, myself included, feel we aren't doing enough? How did the "do more" mentality dominate? My journal would read: I want to take a little hiking trip with my boyfriend for the holiday weekend, but I'm afraid to tell my family that I would miss thanksgiving. The guilt is strong.
    Reply
    • Anne
      November 16, 2015 · 6:11PM:
      Thank you! It does seem the "do more" mentality is getting more and more prevalent - practically everyone I talk to feels the same way. I think it's part of our always connected society... it's a lot harder to stop working/disconnect and slow down now than it used to be given all the smartphones, etc! Everyone seems to always be expected to be in touch. It's hard -- makes me nervous it's going to get even worse as technology increases! I hope you enjoy the hiking trip and some nice time to disconnect, if you decide to go for it!
      Reply
  • Theodora
    November 16, 2015 · 8:39PM:
    1. Blogging + seeing clients = basically two jobs. You need to give yourself more credit for that, friend. 2. I hear coming to NYC to visit will help. (That is actually the exact opposite...but it will still be fun ;))
    Reply
    • Anne
      November 16, 2015 · 9:01PM:
      Thanks my dear. :) Can't wait to see you in December!!
      Reply
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anne mauney fannetastic food
Hi, I’m Anne! I'm a Washington D.C. based Registered Dietitian, mother, runner, and lover of travel, adventure, and the great outdoors. I've been blogging since 2009, sharing a mix of lifestyle content, recipes, and fitness tips. Come for the recipes – stay for the fun!
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anne mauney

I’m Anne, a Registered Dietitian and mother. I've been blogging since 2009 and love showing others that eating nutritious foods and staying active can actually be fun rather than overwhelming!

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