Welcome to Shine! And Happy International Women’s Day! I can’t think of a more appropriate day to launch my blog than the day when we take time to honor women’s accomplishments worldwide and to focus on greater equality. It’s even more appropriate that this year’s theme is “Make it Happen.” After a few years of waiting for things to happen to me, I’m now focused on making them happen.

I’m celebrating this International Women’s Day in Singapore, where I’m enjoying a weekend getaway with my lovely mother, exploring this modern city/state that’s a melting pot of people, cultures, buildings, old and new. And from here, where it’s hot and sunny, I’m launching Shine.

  On the 57th floor of the Marina Bay Sands Building in Singapore.

According to Merriam-Webster, the verb “shine” means: 1) to give off light; 2) to have a smooth surface that reflects light; 3) to be very good or successful at an activity. And that’s exactly what I’d like this blog to do – in my life and, hopefully, for others as well.

My hope that this blog will “shine” (pun intended) a light on the issues that I spend a lot of time thinking about: balancing family, work, healthcare, and fitness, all while having fun as I travel this crazy world.

One thing I love about travel: it makes you reflect. 2013 brought my family to Hanoi, two-month-old and two-year-old in tow, and suddenly, our world was awash in nuoc mam (fish sauce), a sea of motorbikes, conical hats, and a new language. That’ll make you reflect! On health, personal goals, career aspirations, mom-hood, spirituality, the whole nine yards (That’s 8.2 meters in Vietnam).

This space is dedicated to the fitness and lifestyle side of those reflections. Just a sampling of my own, constantly-evolving lessons learned, tips, and tricks and a space to share yours. So, please let me hear your two cents (or, 427 Vietnamese dong) about how to live better, healthier, more balanced lives.

Happy International Women’s Day to all you lovely ladies out there!

– AMT

#internationalwomensday

#makeithappen

#leanin

#shine

#singapore