Never Say Never

Yoga...Where have you been all my life?

2012-01-09T21:05:00.000-06:00

Hey everyone, how was your Monday?

I certainly wasn't ready to go back to work, but the day was surprising calm. We have almost everything in the office boxed up for end of year transition. Thank goodness!

If you remember my New Year, New You post from last week, there are a few things that I am happy to say I have already started chipping away at!

I am happy to report that I have cut back on the alcohol - 2 glasses in 9 day (who am I?!), and I have been enjoying my 15 minutes of reflection time every day.

Looking back at my fitness goals, I see now that they are all running related!! I do love running, but I think I need to diversify my goals a bit. Twice this past week I have had the opportunity to try yoga at a local studio called Siva Yoga Studios. The only yoga class I have ever taken was at my local Y. Not to knock that class, but my experience was so different at a studio!

On Thursday night, my friend Carri and I tried the Hot Fusion Yoga at Siva Hot Yoga Studio. From the website: HOT FUSION Ashtanga, which means "eight limbs" in Sanskrit, is a fast-paced, intense style of yoga. A set series of poses is performed, always in the same order. Ashtanga practice is very physically demanding because of the constant movement from one pose to the next. In yoga terminology, this movement is called flow. Ashtanga is also the inspiration for what is often called Power Yoga. If a class is described as Power Yoga, it will be based on the flowing style of Ashtanga, but not necessarily keep strictly to the set Ashtanga series of poses.

I loved this class! It wasn't as hot as a normal bikram class, but it was warm enough to allow me to get a really deep stretch. I felt very comfortable in the class setting, and everyone was very welcoming.

On Saturday morning, my friend Arielle and I had the chance to attend the flow class at Siva Power Yoga studio. From the website: FLOW/POWER Like Hatha, Vinyasa is a general term that is used to describe many different types of classes. Vinyasa, which means breath-synchronized movement, tends to be a more vigorous style based on the performance of a series of poses called Sun Salutations, in which movement is matched to the breath. A Vinyasa class will typically start with a number of Sun Salutations to warm up the body for more intense stretching that's done at the end of class.

I loved this class as well. I was challenged at times, but also felt like I had enough time to slow down and enjoy the stretches. I can honestly say that I will be back to both classes and I cannot wait to try the power class!

Have you ever tried yoga?

New Year, New Me

2012-01-01T17:58:00.000-06:00

I'm going to join the rest of the crowd and say, "Where did 2011 go?!"

It seems odd (and a little ridiculous!) to say this, but when I look back over the past year, nothing is really popping out at me. Some of the highlights of 2011:

We moved 3 times
I graduated from college
I completed my first warrior dash
I celebrated 5 years with the BF

Now that the year has come to an end, its time to look forward to the coming year. There is a crazy amount of debate in the blog world on whether or not to make new year's resolutions. Some people find it motivating while others think they are completely ridiculous. Personally, I like having something to shoot for. Even though I haven't had the greatest track record with goals, this year I believe I can be different. I have hope, and for me that's good enough.

Now to the list! In my earlier post thoughts on the new year, I mentioned the four categories that I wanted to focus on this year. Under each category, I have a few keys things to focus on.

Personal

Cut back on alcohol
Read 24 books this year
Take 15 minutes of quiet time a day for reflection

Professional

Build an awesome resume
Pursue new paths for advancement

Physical

Run my first marathon
Complete my first triathlon
PR in the 5K distance

Financial

Pay off one credit card
Save $600 dollars
Build a budget and stick with it

Some of these goals already have plans in place and some don't. I am so excited to see what 2012 has in store for me. This is going to be my best year yet!

Are you setting resolutions? What do you hope to accomplish?

Thoughts for the New Year

2011-12-28T09:37:00.000-06:00

Hey everyone, how was your Christmas?

The BF and I had a very relaxing, low key day with lots of family time and good food. It was a little harsh coming back to reality yesterday. Having no close vacation or days off at work sort of stinks haha!

As the new year approaches, I have started contemplating my goals. What do I want to achieve in the coming year?

I am notorious for committing to grand goals and plans, then never following through. I want 2012 to be different. I haven't decided exactly what I want my goals to be, but I've picked the categories.

I am going to break my goals down into separate categories:

Personal
Professional
Physical
Financial

Within the week, I will have a more specific and focused list of goals for 2012!

(source)

What are your goals for the new year?

A Woman Should Have...

2011-12-20T16:34:00.003-06:00

enough money within her control to move out and rent a place of her own, even if she never wants to or needs to...

something perfect to wear if the employer, or date of her dreams, wants to see her in an hour...

a youth she's content to leave behind....

a past juicy enough that she's looking forward to retelling it in her old age....

a set of screwdrivers, a cordless drill, and a black lace bra...

one friend who always makes her laugh... and one who lets her cry...

a good piece of furniture not previously owned by anyone else in her family...

eight matching plates, wine glasses with stems, and a recipe for a meal that will make her guests feel honored...

a feeling of control over her destiny...

how to fall in love without losing herself...

how to quit a job, break up with a lover, and confront a friend without ruining the friendship...

when to try harder... and WHEN TO WALK AWAY...

that she can't change the length of her calves, the width of her hips, or the nature of her parents..

that her childhood may not have been perfect but it's over......

what she would and wouldn't do for love or more...

how to live alone . even if she doesn't like it...

whom she can trust, whom she can't, and why she shouldn't take it personally...

where to go...be it to her best friend's kitchen table or a charming inn in the woods when her soul needs soothing...

what she can and can't accomplish in a day... a month...and a year...

Best Poem Ever …Pamela Redmond Satran

Things I've Been Enjoying

2011-12-20T14:20:00.000-06:00

Hey! How's it going?

Now that school is out (for-ever!!!) I have a lot more free time on my hands. At first, I wasn't sure what I would fill all this time with.

Below are a few of the things I have been enjoying lately in my newly found free time:

Knitting

(source)

I took a knitting class with my Future-Aunt-In-Law (boyfriend's Aunt) and we had a great time. They suck you in with the promise of learning, then you end up spending half your paycheck on yard and supplies for a ton of projects that may never come to fruition! I have a decent start on a scarf, and a pattern and supplies for another one.

Find me on Ravelry !

Reading

(source)

Now that I don't have required reading for classes (not that I ever did it!!) I have more time to read new books. Recently I joined a book club, and I'm not only loving all the new books being recommended, but I love the new group of friends I have made.

Find me on Good Reads!

I wish that I could say I've also been getting a workout in every day or cooking some amazing food, but neither have happened recently. This will change soon, mark my words!

What are your favorite pass times?

Limbo

2011-12-06T23:08:00.000-06:00

(source)

Just popping in for a quick update. The last month has been crazy. In exactly one week I will take the very last exam of my college career. Graduation is a scary time, especially in this economy. Even more so when you graduate with a degree in liberal arts!

I feel as if in all areas of my life I am in limbo. I don't feel a part of the old me anymore, but I am not yet the new me either.

Where do I go from here?

There are so many unanswered questions. For the first time in my life, I am being forced to make some really tough life decisions. I have no idea what the future is going to hold, but it frightens me. It is time to step out into the unknown. Hopefully, I will be able to share some of what the future might hold, but for now, it must remain a secret.

(source)

Holiday Challenge Update

2011-11-09T11:05:00.001-06:00

Since it has been 2 1/2 weeks since I started the Get F.I.T. Holiday Challenge, I figured it was time to give everyone an update and come clean (more on this later!)

The Get F.I.T. (Forever In Training) Holiday Challenge is hosted by a wonderful coach. She runs a personal training business, has countless exercises classes every week, and is truly dedicated to helping men and women achieve their healthy living goals. My cousin Kristin has participated in her challenges before, and when she mentioned she would be doing the holiday one, I wanted in! I've had weight loss success before when doing a challenge, so I figured this would be great for me!

A quick overview of the challenge: we get workout "homework" every week we must complete, we text or email her everything we eat, and report weekly weigh ins. There are also a few tel-conferences where we discuss some healthy living articles she has provided. At the end of 11 weeks, we are retested and complete final weigh ins and measurements. Simple and straight forward.

I, unfortunately, had to miss the informational meeting at the beginning of the challenge, but Kristin filled me in on the details. I honestly don't know what I was expecting when I went into this commitment. The fit test (on Oct 22nd) wasn't exactly what I was expecting. I assumed she would talk to us for a little bit about the whole deal, but we were weighed, measured, and tested lickty split. (She must have been tired after doing this about a billion more times before me!)

I am going to be straight forward and say that I expected to learn something new. Most of the articles in our packet I have read, or didn't have any information that I hadn't already come across in my research. Since I started my weight loss/ healthy living journey, I have done a TON of research. I am always looking for new info, tips and tricks, as well as motivating information. I didn't feel as if I was learning anything new.

The other hang up I had was with the texting of our food log. I have always felt like I was making healthy choices: unprocessed food, low sugar, healthy fats. But the responses I was getting from her felt extremely judgmental. Always being told you could make healthier choices didn't feel good. I know both Tonya and Kristin say that people who text her have more success, but I can't bring myself to do it. I am working to change my mindset and how I feel about her feedback on my food.

She isn't judging me, that's just how I feel. She is providing me with constructive criticism, and I need to learn to take it as such. I've decided not to text her right now because I struggle so much with balance in my food choices. If the BF and I go out for pizza, I don't want to hear how bad that choice is. It's not the healthiest thing I could have chosen, but I want to strive for balance, not perfection.

I'm happy to report that I have very close to a weight loss milestone! To say I'm excited is an understatement. I am also down about 5 lbs since my initial Get F.I.T. weigh in. I consider this a success with the move, school, and life in general. As my friend Emily would say "Onward and Downward!"

************************************************************

This post has been edited.

As of this evening, I will no longer be participating in this challenge at the request of the coach.

Is this thing on?

2011-11-08T15:38:00.001-06:00

**Tap** **Tap**

Hello?

So a man walks into a bar..

But really, its been more than a while since I've written a post. My laundry list of excuses include:

Moving
School
My new found love of the library
School
Living with the BF again
School
My lack of things to write about...

Just the general college student laments. Do you guys remember when I made that big announcement last month? Yea, the one about the "once in a lifetime" experience? Well, I've just started the actual training plan for that big run!

Honestly, it makes me feel super lame that I have to start from scratch on my running. ( I began couch to 5k today). But the harsh reality is I'm not a natural runner. If I don't put forth the effort and work, then this dream can't come to fruition. I've realized that I like the thought of being a runner much more than the actual reality of it. It is time to change that. Building from the ground up is the smartest way approach this goal. I will finish couch to 5k around new years. Come January 2012, I begin my brand spanking new running plan! Thanks in major part to the lovely Lauren for not only writing this plan, but being a constant rock during my running journey. Happy running!

Here are a few new running related blogs that I have come across:

Jess @ Blonde Ponytail
Alyssa @ Life of Blyss
Leslie @ Racing It Off
TMB @ Racing With Babes
Steph @ Steph Run for Wine
Marlene @ Mission to a(nother) Marathon

Once in a Lifetime

2011-10-14T09:51:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone! Can I say how stoked I am that it's Friday?!?

This is going to be one of the last free weekends I have, and I am going to enjoy it! There will be lots of relaxing, reading, and girl time.

I've dilly dallied enough; now its time for the real reason I'm here. Over the past few weeks, my exercise life has seen its fair share of ups and downs. Experiencing my first real injury put a lot of things into perspectives for me. Running might now always be easy, or fun. But absolutely nothing beats the feeling I have when I finish a run or cross that finish line. Since I started running in July of 2010, I've run only a handful of races. I can count them on one hand actually. I've done 3 5K's and 1 half marathon. Experienced isn't exactly the way I would describe my running career. Even with my lack of running "credentials", I constantly dream of bigger and better races.

After a detailed discussion with some close friends on Twitter, I've made my decision. Exactly one year from today, October 14th, 2012, I will run my first (of hopefully many) marathon.

(source)

This was not an easy decision. For some people (like my amazing DM friends) a marathon is not a big deal. But for someone, who for most of her life, wouldn't even consider running a mile, this is a big deal.

Deciding on my first marathon was rather simple. I needed to think about hills, the course, and how easy it would be to get there. Seeing as PF was my first big race, it only makes sense to make it my first marathon as well. Being in my hometown, this will allow many of my friends and family to be there to enjoy the experience with me.

Over the course of this year, I will write about my journey to 26.2 miles. I aspire to, of course, lose a few pounds, gain speed, and truly find out what I am made of. Its time to ignite the flame.

(source)

I would like to give a special thanks to my boyfriend Brad and my wonderful cousin Kristin for inspiring me, as well as supporting me on this journey. I'd also like to thank the wonderful Lauren of Live What You Love for encouraging me to follow my dreams. Here's hoping she is able to make it to the race to run with me!!

New Challenges

2011-10-13T10:50:00.000-05:00

Hey everybody! How's it hangin?

Its been almost two weeks since my injury, and I am very happy to report I have NO more foot pain!! Yipee!! A run is in the works for this evening.

I, like many people, half welcome/ half dread the holiday season! There is nothing more heart warming than spending lots of time with family and friends and really enjoying the holidays. Unfortunately, there are countless parties, and special holiday treats! Who wants to pass up on Mom's special holiday cookies?! I can tell my Mom is preparing for holiday cooking battle. She has gone to Nifty Nut House to get her truck loads of nuts, chocolates, and baking necessities! Soon our house will be filled with sugar cookies, chex party mix, and lots of holiday chocolates!

I love my Mom to death, but her wonderful treats have a serious impact on my waist line. That's why I have decided to join 2 challenges this holiday season!

The first is a local challenge through Mommy Movement Fitness. My cousin Kristin is very active with this group, and while I am not a mommy, I am still able to join in on the fun!

I'm a little anxious about the whole weigh in, measurement thing. I can only hope that this is private! If not, oh well, there are worse things that could happen to me! This challenge starts Saturday, October 22nd and runs through December 30th. I am going to try to work up a spreadsheet to keep track of everything. (Hoping I can bribe the lovely Fit and Free Emily into teaching me how to use Google Docs!)

The second challenge is a blogger challenge through Run to the Finish. This is the Holiday Booty Buster Challenge!

I did not participate in this last year, but I am very excited to join in this year! This challenge runs from November 19th through January 6th. There is a provided Google Doc for tracking.

With the failure of my own challenge (33 Day Challenge), and I excited to join in on others. From my past weight loss history, I do best when I participate in a group challenge, just not when I am in charge! I will try to complete a weekly update here on the blog, but of course, you can follow me on Twitter or on Daily Mile. Here's to a healthy, happy holiday season!!

Are you participating in any challenges this holiday season?

Rosstoberfest Race Recap

2011-10-03T13:11:00.000-05:00

Hey everybody, how's it hanging in your neighborhood?

This past Saturday I had to opportunity to run the Rosstoberfest 5K Run for PPMD in College Hill. Its a great race for a great cause. Even more exciting, this was the first race I was running with friends! My friends Leah and Jen decided to join me and we had a pretty good time.

I made it clear to the ladies that they needed to run their own race, and I would run mine. They run around an 11 minute mile, while I am closer to a 13 minute mile. Some day I'll run with them, someday.

It was an absolutely gorgeous morning! Low 60's and clear blue skies. I was nervous, to say the least! It has been a while since I have run 3 miles consecutively. I made it almost a mile before my first walk break. My legs honestly felt awesome almost the whole race. I encouraged some ladies along the way and vice versa. It was an awesome feeling! I cross the finish line with an official time of 39:21, a 12:40 pace. Super surprised to see the 12 on the front of my minute pace. I am still a little sad I didn't PR (about 30 seconds too slow!!), but I knew it wasn't going to happen. I haven't trained correctly. There will always be another race.

I had an awesome time running with my friends!

I also wanted to share some not so awesome news. After I finished the race, I headed to Halstead to play softball. I should have known better than to play 4 hours of softball, but I did it anyway. I woke up Sunday morning and it hurt like a mother to walk on my left foot. The pain is located on the outside of my arch, and is constant when I try to walk or put pressure on it.

I went to my doctor this morning and had an x-ray taken. They couldn't see a fracture with a normal x-ray, but I will be getting a bone scan tomorrow. If it isn't a fracture, I don't know what they will tell me. Cross your fingers for me! Until further notice, I am ordered to no physical exercise. Bummer.

Did you race this weekend? How did you do?

Nothing is Impossible

2011-09-23T11:57:00.000-05:00

Finally Friday is here! It couldn't have come at a better time.

Today has been more than a little stressful. All of that stress has been created by me. My mistakes, my choices. To give a brief idea of my biggest stresser, I spilled oil on a dining room table, and didn't realize it for two weeks. Two whole weeks....I felt like someone had ripped out my stomach!

I get that it is only a table. It can be replaced or refinished. But how could I be so stupid? Damaging someone else's property, by accident or on purpose, makes me feel terrible. For most of the morning, I've been sulking around, beating myself up for my mistakes. This is compounded on top of the fact that I skipped my run last night and ate like shit.

Down in the dumps yet?

Then I started chatting on Twitter with the wonderful Karen. She blogs over at Losing to Win (go say hello!) Talking down to myself about the table, and the other mistakes isn't going to fix anything. It won't help me save money for an apartment. It won't make my ass smaller. It certainly won't help me fix anything! I had a revelation...

(source)

Yes!! Nothing is impossible. There is always, always a set of logical steps to take in order to get anything or anywhere. Life is like one big algebra problem. Use the formula. Form a plan!

Step 1: Face the problem head on

Nothing is going to change until you acknowledge that something is wrong. Want to save money? Acknowledge that you spend money on needless things sometimes. Want to lose weight? Acknowledge that you don't move as much as you should. Figure out what it is that upsets you, and get it out in the open, write it down even. Seeing it in plain black and white can make it seem ever more real.

Step 2: Decide what you want to come of this change; set a goal

What is the drive for this change? Are you trying to buy a new car? Train for a race? Setting a concrete goal gives you a place to aim your sights. Simply saying, "I want to lose weight" won't due. It's terribly vague and can be interpreted a million different ways. Create S.M.A.R.T. goals.Specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timely. Make multiple goals leading up to a bigger goal. Celebrate along the way to keep your spirits high!

Step 3: Create your steps to success

Now that you have a goal, you can figure how to get there. This might not be an easy task. You might have to make 16 different plans. Roll with the punches. Need to save money? Make a budget. Need to lose weight? Make a workout plan or nutrition plan. There is no problem that can't be solved! Don't be afraid to ask for help either. It is one of the most valuable lesson I have learned. I also find it helpful to talk your plan and goal out with someone. This keeps you accountable.

Step 4: Follow the plan - smash your goal

Now that you have a plan of action, take action! Work on small bits of the goal every day. Scratch off those smaller goals as you reach them. Don't worry if you get sidetracked. It happens. Acknowledge that it did, then move on. Determination can go a long way in helping you succeed. Believe in yourself, and you can't fail!

"Hope never abandons you; you abandon it" ~ George Weinberg

Ooops I did it again...

2011-09-21T13:09:00.000-05:00

Nothing like a little throw back Britney on a hump day right? LOL

Sort of a cryptic title, but I did do it again. I registered for another race!

Now I have 3 races the next 3 weekends. This Saturday, September 24th, I'll be running the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure 5K.

This was a very last minute decision. My favorite running cousin is running it as well.

The following weekend, Saturday, October 1st, I'll be running the 3rd Anuual Rosstoberfest.

Rossotberfest is a local race that raises money for Parent Project Muscular Distrophy. From the website:

Ross McFarland was born in 1995 with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy. His mom Beverly and dad Robert, both avid runners, decided in January of 2008 to put together this run to honor Ross and to raise funds for Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy.

This will be my second time running this race. I am excited to revisit my very first race again. While I would love to PR this race, I have no idea how I ran so fast last year! As long as I finish, I will be ecstatic!

Finally, to wrap up my tour-de-races, on Sunday, October 9th, I will be running the Prairie Fire Mayor's 5K challenge.

Le sigh....the prairie fire. This was supposed to be my triumphant return to the half marathon. Alas, I crapped out on my training again, and will only be completing the 5K. There is the tiniest pang of regret for the decision I made, but that was it, a decision. While it would have been amazing to run another half, my heart wasn't in it. There will be others. I am excited I will be able to watch my wonderful cousin cross the line (hopefully with a PR) of her second half this year!! Go Kristin!!

Whew!! It sounds like a lot, but I am very excited (and suddenly nervous!) Make sure to check back here on the blog for race recaps.

Are you racing this weekend?

Leave a comment here so I can be sure to cheer you on!!

Exercise makes all the difference

2011-09-19T10:09:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone! How was your weekend??

Lots has happened since I checked in with you last. Friday night, the BF and I celebrated our 5th anniversary. It was pretty awesome! My gift to him was a new box of golf balls plus choice of: 1) 9 holes of golf with MOI! 2) tickets to a KU basketball game or 3) tickets to a Broncos football game. He hasn't decided what he wants yet, but I am hoping for the basketball game **hint, hint** **WINK, WINK**

As for my gift...no, it wasn't a shiny ring. Le sigh!! In time people..I did however receive...ticket to Reba!!

(source)

Yahooo!!!!

Can you tell I'm excited? I haven't always been a country music fan, but I love her music.

Even with all the fun I had this weekend, there were some not so fun times. If you haven't been reading long, over the past 3 weeks I've decided not to run a half marathon (because I didn't fee like training) and I've committed to getting back on track!

About that last part....not so much. I did turbo one day last week, but other than that, I did nada. Friday, as well as Sunday, were pretty rough days emotionally. I've touched on my depression before, but I had a tiny revelation this weekend.

Over the past 3 weeks, my mood has been a pendulum, swinging from one side to the other without notice. What's been different? What's missing? Exercise!!

My mood is much more even when I get a good sweat in during the day. I have to make it a priority in my life! My goals for this week: exercise 5 times, track every day.

Do you have a hard time finding balance? Any tips?

PS~ I added a new button on my side bar. If you are interested in seeing what I eat during the day, click on my lose it scale!! ------->

5 Years of Memories

2011-09-15T13:10:00.001-05:00

Today I would like to dedicate my post to the love of my life...

It can't believe it has been 5 years. There are so many things that you have taught me and shown me.

There have been countless ups and downs. I am so grateful that you have been by my side through it all.

You help me to remember to not take my self so seriously.

You can always make me laugh and smile.

You let me talk you into doing some crazy things!

I can't imagine my life without you.

I'll love you forever. Thank you for everything you have done, and continue to do.

A New Beginning

2011-09-12T10:55:00.000-05:00

Hey all!

I've been on a little blog vacation the past few weeks. Well, technically not a vacation. I've just been sort of lazy. See, when I fall off the wagon, it's hard for me to find something to write about. I noticed it in my blog reading too. For the past few weeks (since I decided to not run the Prairie Fire Half), I haven't wanted to read any blogs.

None. Zip. Zero. Zilch. Nada!

What's wrong with me? I love blogs! Especially your blogs!

I was doing really well on the healthy eating/ weight loss/ working out wagon. Then it was like someone flipped the switch to off.

All I wanted to do was lie around, drink beer, and watch Netflix (read: my life for the last few weeks). I've spoken with a few different women and they have encouraged me to get back at it.

Erin Berry Scott is a wonderful, upbeat lady who hooked me up with a hybrid plan for P90X and Turbo Fire!

Heidi Wells is a great dietitian who helped me set a goal for my calories! Look for a review of my appointment coming soon!

And, of course, miss Fit and Free Emily has given my tons of support and she constantly inspires me to be better!

I've come to realize (not surprisingly) that it will never be easy. This journey is hard work. If it weren't, it wouldn't be worth it. There are countless things I don't want to do, but I must. Things I don't want to feel, but I must. Things I don't want to miss, but I must.

It's about give and take. The ebb and flow. Remembering that there are mountains and valleys.

The time is now. I can't keep putting this off. This is my life.

You can find this picture, and many more on my Words of Wisdom Pinterest board. Also check out my Fitness board.

What is there to say?

2011-09-01T09:49:00.001-05:00

Hey all, September already.

My favorite season has begun. This picture from Pinterest says it all...

I've been putting this post off for a while. I don't know how to start it, or even get out what I want to say.

I'm not running the Prairie Fire Half.

Things were going fairly well. I was sticking to a training schedule. But in all honesty, I wasn't happy. I can't really figure out why, but 75% of the time, all I could think about what quitting. I feel like I have let a lot of people down, including myself. I don't know what to say.

While I won't be running the half, I am running the 5k with some wonderful friends.

School has started and one of my classes is requiring much more effort than I anticipated. Posts will be few and far between. Sorry I'm not sorry.

Until next time...

Training Week 6 Recap

2011-08-22T11:49:00.000-05:00

Monday again? The weekends always fly faster than the weekdays!

Things have been pretty silent in my neck of the woods lately, so I really laid low on the blog scene last week. Today is my last "first" day of school ever. I am beyond excited! Finishing college has been on my to-do list for a while. I have only 3 classes this semester, but they still seem like they may be a handful. I will do my best to keep up with weekly updates, but with the BF and my current living situation, blogging won't be at the top of my priority list.

Training Week 6

Monday: 3 mile run
Tuesday: Lift and 5 miles on bike
Wednesday: Rest
Thursday: Rest
Friday: 2 mile run and 5 miles on bike
Saturday: 7 mile long run
Sunday: rest (light swimming)

Standard workouts most days. I didn't get my second strength workout in. I had planned to do my entire long run outside, but a late start forced my butt inside onto the treadmill. There was so aching in my right knee, so I am taking this week with a grain of salt. I was initially disappointed with my time on Saturday (7 in 1:37), but then I found this quote.

I am keeping this quote in mind for all my runs!

And this is what I am keeping in mind for all around balance!

Janetha shared the link to a tumblr last week, and now I am obsessed! Serious motivation!

Training Week 5 Recap

2011-08-16T09:14:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone, how's it going?

Only one day late on my weekly recap. Better late than never right?

Just a simple once over this week, ready, set, go!

Training Week 5

Monday: Lifted - 5 miles in the bike
Tuesday: 2 mile run
Wednesday: Rest
Thursday: 3 mile run
Friday: Lazy
Saturday: Softball all day
Sunday: Hungover all day

High lights of the week:

A salad beast with goat cheese:

Soft Brown Sugar Cookies with Vanilla Glaze

My new Brooks!

Lentil and veggie stew!

It was a pretty standard week here at NSN.

Did you have anything exciting happen this week?

I Will Act Now

2011-08-12T11:35:00.001-05:00

(source)

A Recipe and A Review

2011-08-11T09:11:00.000-05:00

Hey y'all? The week just keeps chugging along!

Yesterday, after listening to my internal conversation for most of the day (yea, it was still going on in my head), I decided it would be prudent to take a rest day. But what could I do with my evening instead? Baking sounded like a much better idea!

If you aren't on Pinterest, get your booty over there! I found the recipe for these Soft Brown Sugar Cookies after seeing them pinned on a discussion board. I followed the recipe to a T, and boy was it a winner! It probably wasn't the smartest idea to swap my workout for a baking session. Oh well, it was a wonderful way to spend my evening!

After a light dinner, the BF headed home and I plopped myself into bed to watch my latest Netflix rental: UltraMarathon Man: 50 Marathons, 50 States, 50 Days.

(source)

UltraMarathon Man follows Dean Karnazes as he runs 50 marathons in 50 states in 50 consecutive days to bring awareness to America's obesity epidemic. The docomentary touches a little bit on how Dean started running, but ultimately jumps right into his running journey. The coolest part for me was seeing Dean run through my home town of Wichita, KS. It was surreal to see such an inspirational runner actually run through my town. The funniest part was watching them drive through all the construction on Kellogg (typical Wichita!).

Overall, I thought it was a great documentary. He is very inspiring and it was an amazing fete that he accomplished. If you have an extra Saturday afternoon, I would suggest watching it. I still prefer Spirit of the Marathon better though.

Have you seen these documentaries? Any others you suggest I see?

Internal Conversations

2011-08-10T11:12:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone, how's it going?

For the first time in a long time, it's raining here! The only thing that would make this day better is if I were at home, curled up on the couch watching a good movie. Alas, I am stuck behind my desk.

Yesterday afternoon, I headed to the local park to tackle me workout for the day. My training schedule called for 2 miles. No big deal. I did 6 on Saturday, tonight will be cake! Not so much....below is a brief look into the internal conversation I had with myself during and after my run.

Good Voice: This is going to be awesome!

Bad Voice: Wow, you are kind of sucking at this today.

Good Voice: Everyone has bad days, it will get better in a few minutes....

Bad Voice: Nope, this isn't working. You should just stop running right now.

**Insert picture of the crazy girl who runs for about 10 seconds then stops. Repeat multiple times**

Bad Voice: Why are you evening doing this? Do you enjoy it? You aren't getting any better at it...

Good Voice: I am getting better. You just can't tell today. Its really hot. And there isn't a breeze.

Bad Voice: Nice try blaming the weather. Maybe you shouldn't run this race. I don't think you will be ready. You will be more embarrassed then last year.

Good Voice: But, but...

OK, enough of the crazy talk. I went into the run yesterday thinking it was going to be a cake walk, and I ended up doing the walk of shame (slightly less shameful than that walk of shame....out of the gutter people). There is no shame in taking walk breaks, but I just want to have the feeling of actually running for an extended period. You know? The "this is what running should feel like" feeling. Like I am doing work, but I am not moments from death?

Since starting training, I have gone back and forth about really committing to the race. Yesterday, ironically enough, I read two posts from the No Meat Athlete site. One was written by Matt entitiled Does Your Label Still Fit. One was written by Susan Lacke entitled The One Word to Ignore. Both posts got me thinking, even more so after my run. Am I forcing this? Should I give it a rest? Is that giving up?

I'm still on the fence about the Prairie Fire. I am 5 weeks into training, so it would be a shame to quit now. But I also don't want to keep pushing myself to do this if it isn't making me happy.

(source)

Which road do I take?

Determination Tuesday

2011-08-09T11:00:00.000-05:00

(source)

What are you determined to do today?

Training Week 4 Recap

2011-08-08T11:52:00.001-05:00

Monday comes too soon again! Did we even get a weekend?

I have to admit that these past few days were some of the best I have had in a long time. My weekend included plenty of relaxing, catching up with visiting family, and some awesome workouts. Friday evening after work, I met up with the BF and his family at Los Cocos Mexican Restaurant for a delicious dinner. His grandma drove into town, and no one in the family was interesting in cooking. I ate way too many chips and salsa. Jean and I shared the Enchiladas Los Cabos, which consisted of corn tortillas stuffed with a few different kinds of seafood, smothered in a delicious cheese sauce. Holy amazing!

Even though I stayed at the bar much later than I intended, I was determined to face my long run on Saturday morning. 6 miles slated on the schedule, and that's exactly what I did!! Thank goodness some storms rolled in Friday night. I woke to cool(er) temps, and cloud cover. The BF was a lifesaver and went to get me a handheld water bottle as well as sport beans for my run.

My legs felt great the whole time (minus a little chafing towards the end), but I struggled a lot with actually making myself run. I've become so accustomed to walk breaks that I think I'm to the point of abusing them. My goal for my runs this week: to push through the mental wall, and run as long as I can!

The rest of Saturday included reading the new Runner's World, watching Spirit of the Marathon, wine night with my wonderful cousin, and a little baseball!

Sunday consisted of a friend's baby shower and relaxing by the pool. So sad I forgot my swim suit!

Best baby shower cake ever!!

Training Week 4

Week1
Week 2
Week 3

Monday: Rest
Tuesday: Rest
Wednesday: Rest
Thursday: 3 mile run
Friday: Rest
Saturday: 6 mile run
Sunday: Rest

Do you see a pattern there? REST! The first 3 days I rested because of a suspicion I might have injured my knee. The pain went away, but its better to be safe then sorry. Goals for this week: get in some quality cross training, and work on pushing through the mental wall during my runs.

What fun things did you do this weekend?

Facing the Long Run

2011-08-05T09:53:00.001-05:00

Hey everyone, how's it hanging?

Tips for Tackling a Long Run

The time has finally come in Prairie Fire training where the miles start getting challenging. My week day runs vary in length from 2 miles to 4 miles. Tomorrow will be the first time I will tackle a distance over 4. The goal distance: 6 miles. It may not seem like a "long run" to someone who is marathon training, but to me, its a feat! I sent out a search on Twitter for tips from all my runner friends. Here is a list of their best tips and tricks:

Emily said "Don't face it, just do it!" and "Your mind will tell you NO - but you know your body can do it. Mind over matter"

Kase from Go Sport ID said "Think positive, stay focused, and put in the effort"

Christian said "Start slow, go slow. If it's one of your first long runs, don't be afraid to incorporate walk breaks."

Thomas suggested "good night sleep, don't eat greasy foods the day before. create your route that goes around plenty of b-rooms/water stops"

Manon said "put on your shoes and do the damn thang. Hydrate and fuel, don't be an idiot."

Anne suggested "don't worry to much about it, just go one mile at a time, walk/rest/stretch of you need to. Take water & fuel w/you. GL!"

Carly mentioned "Break it up into separate short runs in my head. I don't ever think about the total distance."

Jessica suggested "Lots of water the night before and I usually use some type of Gu or energy supplement during the run."

Such awesome suggestions!

After a mental struggle on my three miles yesterday, I know my biggest struggle will be my brain game tomorrow. Taking the run one mile at a time will help break it up.

Now is also the time, I start deciphering what fuel, water, pre-run meals, and clothing will be best for race day. I don't want to get 2 miles away from home and have to deal with any "surprise" stomach issues. I also don't want to lose three layers of skin chaffing because this top was so cute, I just couldn't say no to wearing it! Learn the lessons early!

Most of all, be grateful that your body to able to get out there and complete the run. Your body is a gift and it can do amazing things!

(source)

Do you have a long run this weekend?

Training Week 3 Recap

2011-08-03T12:50:00.001-05:00

Hey everyone! How is your week so far?

Sorry for the recap, but I was anxious to get my Warrior Dash recap published. Crazy to think that it has come and gone! If you follow me on Twitter, then you may have seen me tweeting about some knee pain. It hurt mildly after the race, and when it still bothered me on Monday, I knew I needed to go to the doctor.

I grabbed the first appointment, and am so glad that I went. She is a runner too, and understands my concerns about doing too much too soon. I am 3 weeks deep in training and the last thing I want to do is sideline myself for weeks or months because I didn't want to scale back.

I am excited to say the doc gave me an all clear to get back into training!! Of course, I will monitor how the knee feels and keep up with my icing, stretching, and rolling.

Training Week 3

Week 1
Week 2

Last week was less than stellar.

Monday: Nothing - I was lazy
Tuesday: 1.5 miles - super hard, lots of leg cramps
Wednesday: Rest - stretched out the legs
Thursday: 3 miles - awesome run!
Friday: Nothing - drove to KC
Saturday: Warrior Dash !!
Sunday: Rest - drove home

After reevaluating, I know that I need new shoes (its been over a year!), as well as commit to more cross training. The big thing I realized (which I already should have known) is you actually have to stick to a schedule, show up at your workouts, and put in the effort to see any results. You're shocked, I know. I am excited to get new shoes this weekend. If you are from Wichita, come join the fun Saturday at the GoRun Wichita east location grand opening!

How have your workouts been this week?

Have you ever struggled with an injury?

Warrior Dash Recap

2011-08-02T21:42:00.000-05:00

Or the alternately named "The Longest 5K in History"

I am finally getting back to normal after a whirl wind weekend. The BF and I house sat all last week, which was super nice. We have been looking forward to spending time together for a while. It was just what I needed! Friday afternoon, we packed all our belongings and hit the highway to Kansas City.

This drive flew by and we were checked in before I knew it. Friday night was pretty boring. We had a very underwhelming dinner at the hotel sports bar. I didn't even consider making plans with any friends from KC, so like the cool kids we are, we sat in our room all night, drank, and played Angry Birds. Try not to be too jealous!

(source)

Saturday morning was spent lounging and relaxing, as well as playing mind games with myself. Let me preface this recap by saying I was very confident for the race. I had been training for 3 weeks. In my mind I was rip roaring ready to go.

Parking and shuttling went surprisingly well, although we were bummed parking was $10. Race registration was $50 per person, which I didn't think was outrageous for what the course entailed. Packet pick-up was just as smooth transportation. We arrived almost and hour and a half before our wave time. This gave us plenty of time to watch earlier waves and check out the booths.

War paint was applied...

See those people in the background? Yea, they were praying. I should have been doing the same!

Off we go! For some silly reason, I forgot how hilly KC is compared to Wichita. The race started with an uphill jaunt. Just looking at it, I knew I was in trouble. The heat was in the high 80's, but the humidity was killer! By the time we reached the top of the first hill, I was breathing heavy and couldn't catch my breath.

The rolling hills were mildly hard, and kept my heart pumping. As we rounded the bend, the first obstacle came into view. The over-under walls!

I figured these would be the easiest of all the obstacles, and I ever so gracefully tackled this challenge.

After completing the walls, I was starting to feel it. Luckily, I was able to get one picture with a smile on my face.

Note, this was only about 0.5 miles into the race. I didn't think it would be difficult, but I completely froze on the teetering traverse.

Luckily, two very nice gentlemen in front of us held my hand as I walked over! Tires were next...I ~~dashed~~ walked through them without a hitch.

The BF was also having a blast!

I'm not sure what this obstacle was called, but it was a cross between the monkey bars and the balance beam.

There were 2 water stops; the first at mile 1 and the second at mile 2. As hot as it was, I think there should have been a few more. People were passing out left and right. A few even had to be taken to the hospital!

Now, the first couple obstacles weren't bad, but after trekking up what seemed like the steepest, muddies hills ever, my endurance and stamina were wearing thin. I took a look at all of the second half obstacles, and promptly declined to participate! The BF was a champ and tackled them with abandon!

Deadman's drop scared the crap out of me!

The horizontal nets took a lot of balance to get over! Lots of people struggled on this one.

Lucky for the BF, the hay bails had been pretty well trampled by the time we made our way through them.

Between the hay bails and the final cargo net were countless steep, sloshy, muddy hills. I honestly can't tell you how many times I wanted to sit down and the side of the trail and just quit. I was not in a good mind set at all. Each hill seemed harder than the last and each turn led to another mud pit. I was so thankful to see the cargo net (even if I didn't climb it!)

Thank goodness the finish was just around the corner. All the was left were the fire pit and the mud pit. I would have a seriously kick ass fire jump picture if someone hadn't been standing in front of me! After flailing into the mud pit, I hardly moved. It felt like a millions pounds! Finally, after the longest hour and 25 minutes of my life, I staggered across the finish line and promptly collapsed. One thing the race needs to improve on is the rinsing station. Two trucks was not even close to enough. We followed the line of people through a field to rinse off in a nearby creek!

I did not feel like a million bucks after this race!

This was by far the toughest race I have ever done. I completely underestimated how hard it would be. I am extremely thankful that the BF was there every step of the way with me. If he hadn't been, I most certainly would have quit. There really is no feeling like that of crossing the finishing line with him. I hope this isn't our last race together! I am very proud to have survived and now can call myself a warrior.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-07-27T15:09:00.002-05:00

Training Week 2 Recap

2011-07-25T10:39:00.000-05:00

Ummm, can we go back to Saturday?

I am so not ready for another week to start. The weekends fly by way too fast. Luckily, it was a pretty great time. The BF and I celebrated the marriage of some close friends and we have a blast.

This was my handsome date! Unfortunately, I didn't get any pictures of us together. Shucks!

Of course, in true Samantha fashion, I knocked back a bunch of wine, got a little hot headed, but everything turned out fine. Sorry to those of you who witnessed my little tirade on Twitter in the wee hours of Saturday night.

Now to the training recap!

The week started out with a great cross training day on Monday (where I hit the weights too hard) only to be followed by a disastrous run on Tuesday. I barely cranked out 1.5 miles before I caved and gave up. I rested Wednesday (on purpose) and Thursday (because I was lazy). There was also no workout on Friday. Saturday I reaffirmed my motivation and went outside to tackle 4 miles. It got super hot, and I ended up only getting in a (very) slow 3 miles.

All in all, it wasn't the worst thing that could ever happen. Everyone has bad weeks. The first "why am I doing this again?" thoughts crept into my head, and I questioned why I was doing this. I also find that I have a hard time separating my personal struggles from my training struggles. For example, the BF is job hunting again, which stresses me ~~the fuck~~ out. We both have bills that need to be paid, and only having one income isn't ideal. So now I figure (in my illogical brain) why risk having a bad run when that will just stress me out me...

It's ok, I don't really understand me either. Finding balance and rolling with the punches isn't something I have quite mastered yet. The only thing to do is to keep moving forward. Here's to another week of training!

(source)

Weekend Motivation

2011-07-23T11:00:00.001-05:00

(source)

Motivation

2011-07-22T10:26:00.001-05:00

How's it hangin'?

Happy Friday!! I'm excited too. This weekend, the BF and I get to celebrate the marriage of two of our closest friends. I can't wait to see the beautiful bride and dance the night away.

The only other thing on my agenda is getting a few good workouts in. I have to come clean and admit that I fudged the training plan last night. After the my disastrous workout Tuesday, I took Wednesday as a rest. Thursday called for 3 miles. There was no reason I couldn't get the miles in, I was just being lazy. Plain and simple. I still struggle with finding motivation even when I have the most amazing workout streak ever! No body is perfect, but we have to remember...

(source)
Here are some links to get your rear in gear this weekend!

Tina talks about Workout Mind Games

Tina gives her favorite Workout Mantras

Gina talks about Finding Motivation

Rita has a range of different Motivation Posts

Renee talks about her fickle friend Motivation

You can't win them all...

2011-07-20T09:18:00.000-05:00

Hey all, how is your Wednesday so far? Yea, I wish it were Friday too!

After a fabulous run of 8 consecutive days of workouts, I sort of crashed and burned last night. When I trained for my first half, pretty much all I did was run. And even that wasn't done too much. This time around I am determined to do things right: cross train, stretch, strength train...the whole bit!

If you have a good memory, you will remember my HUGE lack of exercise previous to said consecutive days of awesome training. So when I set out to do my first strength session of the week, I may or may not have been a little over zealous in anticipating how much I could lift and for how long. I thought I was superwoman!

(source)

Umm, yea no...boy was I wrong! I thought I was going easy on legs. No doubt I was a sweaty mess when I was done with my circuit, but it wasn't until later when I was doing dishes, that I knew I had pushed too hard. My legs were wobbly and I thought there was a good chance I might fall over. My DOMS (delayed onset muscles soreness) wasn't terrible yesterday. I was slated to run 2 miles for training.

Maybe I didn't warm up enough, or maybe it was lack or water or carbs. I really don't know. But when I started to run, my legs locked up! I could barely bend at the ankles and my legs felt like lead. Struggling physically makes my mental game even worse. I could not break through the wall! I felt defeated and gave up at 1.4 miles. Walking wasn't even an option. To be honest, I felt like crying. In the grand scheme of things, this run doesn't matter. It will be forgotten and I will move on. One bad run won't keep me from where I am going.

(source)

Listening to my body, I switched things around and am taking a rest/stretch day today.

Have you struggled lately? How are you working to over come it?

Training Week 1 Recap

2011-07-18T12:05:00.000-05:00

Hey everybody, how's it your Monday so far?

Thank goodness its almost lunch time, I'm about to chew my arm off!

My first week of Prairie Fire Half training is complete! I honestly couldn't be happier with the results. Here is a quick break down:

Monday: Walk 1.75 miles and yoga
Tuesday: 1.4 mile run
Wednesday: 2.4 mile run
Thursday: Walk 1.75 mile walk and yoga
Friday: 2 mile run
Saturday: 2.25 walk and yoga
Sunday: 3 mile run

Yes, you see that right. 7 consecutive days of movement! After a few months of spotty albeit non-existent workouts, I knocked it out of the ball park last week. I even logged 2 morning workouts during the work week. To make it even better, my eating was stellar. As difficult as I thought it would be, tracking my calories and choosing healthier foods was NOT hard. I confidently made the choices. The most difficult night I anticipated was Friday, a.k.a. bowling night. How can you hang at the alley and not drink? Surprisingly it wasn't hard. I was worn out from an early workout and beer didn't even appeal to me.

For the first time in a long time, I feel like I had a grip on the week. I felt powerful and in control. You know what? It felt amazing. What was also amazing? A 6.2 pound weight loss for the week! For now I am keeping my starting weight and measurements to myself. I want to say thank you (again!) to Kali and Lauren for giving me so much support. You two are amazing!

Here's to another amazing week!

(source) "Mastering others is strength; mastering yourself is true power" ~ Unknown

For every up there is a down

2011-07-14T13:18:00.000-05:00

This is generally the time in my journey where things start to go down hill. Workouts and eating were on track, then all of a sudden something goes wrong. I eat too much. I miss a few workouts. What happened to the plan?

Once I start to slide down the slope of defeat, rarely do I stop myself before I hit the bottom. Not anymore. I can feel it inside me. Something is different. This is my time.

(source)

I also happened across this awesome post by Matt of No Meat Athlete discussing The Resistance. I've come across this phenomena many times. I have no doubt I will face it many times in the future. But today, right now, I won.

Morning Success!

2011-07-13T11:11:00.000-05:00

Hey everybody? How's it hangin?

I have got to say that I am in a fabulous mood today. Why might you ask? Well one is because I get to see some of my out-of-town cousins tonight!! Pretty sure the last time I saw them was my Uncle's wedding last October.

We have lots of catching up to do!

Reason number two for the outstanding good mood is I ran this morning. And not just any old run. It was a fan-freakin-tastic run. When I imagine how running is supposed to feel, it was that exact feeling. I was very excited!

I was this excited (ignore the chicken wing)...So far I am 3/3 in my training so far. Boo-yah! I've had good balance with my eating as well. Pretty peachy right now.

Are you training for a race?

What is one amazing thing that has happened to you this week?

Time to Light My Fire

2011-07-11T13:13:00.001-05:00

Hey y'all, how is your Monday so far?

It has been boiling here in KS...111* to be exact!

The weather is stupid hot here! With the raging hot weather, my motivation has been zip (I know your surprised haha). But no matter how hot it is, the training must go on! The 2nd Annual Wichita Prairie Fire Marathon is coming up in a mere 13 weeks, October 9, 2011!

(source)

After a less than stellar performance last year, I want redemption this year. I wasn't planning on officially starting my training till next week. But I haven't really gotten on the ball this year either. That's why today is first official day of training! Originally I built a plan myself and got some advice from seasoned runners (Thanks Kali!) I also purchased the Half Marathon Plan from Matt at No Meat Athlete. I meshed the 2 plans together and voila!

Along with training, I am going to focus more on fueling with whole, nutritious foods and getting enough sleep. I've been feeling really lethargic and worn down. Getting back in track with running and good food will no doubt light my fire. I hope you will pop back over from time to time to check in on my training!!!

***EDIT TO ADD***

I have Sparky above my desk, and right next to my training schedule to remind me to keep the fire lit!!

Transitioning

2011-07-07T10:35:00.001-05:00

Has it really been almost a month since I actually wrote a real post? (Don't answer that)

Sigh...there are lots of ~~reasons~~ excuses why I haven't been around. It's officially been three weeks since the move, but it feels like a lifetime. The BF and I still see each other quite often. There are usually only 1 or 2 days a week we don't see each other. The worst part about the move aside from not seeing him every night? I'm not saving any money. This was the entire point of moving home! No matter the circumstances, it seems as if there is always a bill to pay. Because we don't live together, the BF and I are going out a lot more, which is contributing to this drought on moolah.

Another bad part of moving home? Old habits. Its no secret when I lived at home (high school years) I had terrible eating habits. I was away from home most of the day, so I ate crap. When I was home, I still ate crap (even though I knew I needed healthy foods). Now that I am back in that environment, it feels like old times again. No structure to meals, lots of processed foods, eating too much, eating at all hours.

I feel so out of control again.

I don't like it. To build on that, I have lost all routine in the exercise department. I've gotten in a few runs here and there, but no lifting, no stretching, no yoga. Nada!

Pretending like none of this is happening won't solve any problems. I know I have lots of support and I intend on using it. Training for Prairie Fire starts soon and I intend on knocking this one out of the park.

Not the best quality post of my life, but it something. Sorry I'm not sorry.

A Special Note

2011-06-26T22:06:00.000-05:00

My First Award

2011-06-10T11:47:00.000-05:00

Hey everybody, how's it hanging?

Things are starting to come together for the move. We'll put in the last haul tonight and in the morning to get everything ready. My classes on the other hand...lets just say I am super nervous for my first CJ test tonight. Send good vibes my way!

As my title eludes, I have been given my first blogger award!

I want to thank my new friend Kristy for bestowing this on me! I can't wait to meet you!

The Rules:

Thank the person who gave you the award with a link to their blog.
Tell us 10 things about yourself.
Nominate other bloggers and let them know about the award

1. I have always held at least one job since I was 16 years old.

2. I have been working and going to school, at the same time, for 8 years (and I'm ridiculously happy 2011 will be my last year!!!).

3. I've only ever had one boyfriend and its all I ever plan to have!

4. I was only in girl scouts for one year, then the kicked me out. So I went to boy scouts with my Dad.

5. I have one sister, and we look nothing alike. She has super curly blonde hair and I have stick straight dark brown hair.

6. I always said I would never join Twitter, and now I say I will never quit it. Addicted much?

7. I haven't told some of my family members about my blog (like my immediate family!). I worry about their judgement the most.

8. I went through my entire college career without ever going to a college party. Just not my thing.

9. I've tried the at-home business thing multiple times and have never succeeded.

10. I procrastinate my homework till the absolute, very last minute. I feel I work better under pressure.

Now for the lovely ladies I would like to pass this along too....

Brittany of Less Britt, More Life

Emily of Fit and Free Emily

Janetha of Meals and Moves

Maura of Maura Me to Love

Kali of Finishing Firsts

Go visit these ladies and discover how wonderful they are!!

The Busiest Month

2011-06-08T10:03:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone!

Is it really June? Cause I don't want to believe it! If you've read my blog for a while, then you know that June and July are the busiest months of the year at my work. I work in the grain industry and it's harvest time!! Oh, I'm really not excited for harvest.

While harvest means slightly nicer paychecks, it also means long hours, and lots of time away from friends and family. It is even more difficult this year because in an effort to graduate as soon as possible, I am taking 2 summer classes. This shouldn't be a big deal since they are both introductory classes. Poor planning on my part, the hardest class is 4 weeks...that means they took a normal 16 week class and jammed into a quarter of the time. Hopefully I'll be able to keep everything balance...

Oh did I mention that we are moving this Saturday? Yea, and we haven't actually packed too much. Trust me, it will get done, but it won't be pretty! The poor BF will be on his own (again!!) getting things ready for the movers.

I've touched on the move before, but now that its so close, it feels very strange. After thinking through all of our options, I know that we are making the right decision. I've dealt with my feelings and am ready to make this move. It is so difficult to hear people say things like "We really wish you two could stay together" and, "This must be so tough". Yes, I'd love to still live with him and yes, it is difficult. Thanks for pointing that out Captain Obvious.

It will be hard not to wake up next to the BF and I am sure there will be nights when I will cry because he isn't there. But those experiences will make me stronger. This time away will give me a chance to focus on my health and really learn about myself.

Posts maybe few and far between over the next couple of weeks as I settle into my new routine and handle all my classes. I am trying my best to keep up with everyone's blogs. Hope you are having a wonderful June!

Things I Love Friday

2011-06-03T10:31:00.000-05:00

Find new tunes to listen too!

Cage heels!

A weekend of lounging by the pool!

Have a great weekend!

Long Weekend

2011-06-01T13:57:00.000-05:00

How did you enjoy your long weekend?

The BF and I have been looking forward to Memorial Day Weekend since the beginning of the year. Generally we only get to travel to the lake over Labor Day, but it was a must this year. The weekend was filled with lots of wine (maybe too much at times? Read: hangover!!), good homemade food, lots of catching up, and some new art work. Here are some pictures of how I spend my weekend: (note not all were taken this weekend!)

My newest tattoo...in memory of my Grandma who passed away 6 months ago.

The BF's tattoo...he had more color added.

Quality time with the family (in-laws)...

Enjoying views like this with my morning coffee...

Remembering those who've given their lives to allow us to be free...

And lots of quality time with this goofball...love him so much!

Priorities

2011-05-24T13:17:00.000-05:00

(source)

If you fail to plan...

2011-05-23T15:31:00.000-05:00

Then you are planning to fail!

As many of you know, I ran my first half marathon last October. The Prairie Fire was a great experience for me. I learned a lot about myself in the weeks leading up to the race (not all of it was good). After I finished that half, I rode the runner's high for a while, and pledged to run the Wichita Half Marathon on May 1st, 2011. After dragging my feet and putting it off, running and I broke up.

Even though I wasn't running the Wichita Half Marathon anymore, I promised my cousin I would come and support her as she ran her first half. As the date got closer and closer, I wanted to run more and more. 7 days before the race, I was offered free entry (any runners dream!). But it had been a solid 6 weeks with pretty much no exercise. Period.

After chatting with a bunch of runners on Twitter, I decided it would be a terrible idea to try and run. This would be my first race as a spectator. I have to say, when I showed up on race day morning, I was jealous. I wanted to line up and run too!

There is nothing more real than the feeling of jealousy at the starting line of a race. I knew then and there that if I wanted to race, I had to commit to doing the work. I have been extremely lucky to have a cousin who loves running, and pushes me every day to keep working and improving.

I am very happy to announce that I have begun to build my pre-half and half marathon training plans for the 2011 Prairie Fire Half Marathon!

The wonderful Kali at Finishing Firsts is going to mentor me (guess I should tell her that!) on my journey to ~~crushing~~ beating my previous PR. Time to get excited for training!!

Confession

2011-05-21T17:40:00.000-05:00

Please don't tell anyone, but....

I cheated.....

on the couch...

with the treadmill!!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-05-18T09:56:00.000-05:00

Another new adventure

2011-05-17T11:13:00.000-05:00

How many "diets" have you been on?

Ok, stop counting! If you are like me, then you have tried more than you can count on your fingers and toes. The most recent ones that I have cycled through:

And those are just the most recent!! I had mild success with Eat Clean, but decided to switch to TNT to see *faster* results. Big mistake!

TNT is a high fat diet (60% of calories come from fat) and it really messed with my stomach. I tried weight watchers for a while, but don't think it was really for me. It felt really forced. Since ending Weight Watchers, I have been trying to eat intuitively, but it hasn't gone well.

After perusing Janetha's blog and furiously bombarding her with questions on Twitter, I was more than convinced that Body For Life was going to be for me.

I have only read a bit, but so far its really interesting. The personal success stories in the book are very convincing. The major key with this plan is you can do it for 12-weeks, as an intro. Many people adopt this as a way of life. Just like with any other plan, if you just do it for the prescribed amount of time, then go back to old habits, you won't keep your results. Once I get a bit farther into the book, I'll give some more thoughts. Hoping I can find enough time this week to get through it, and start my initial 12-week journey on Sunday!

Have you heard of Body for Life? Have you tried it?

What's the nuttiest "diet" you have every tried?

Change is a good thing...

2011-05-16T11:26:00.000-05:00

I know that I have been pretty cryptic with all the quote posts over the last few weeks...and I apologize.

If you follow me on Twitter, then you may have seen some of my conversations with some amazing women about my dilemma. Over the course of the past week some major life decisions have been made and now we are gearing up for another change. To recap:

The BF and I received our lease renewal paper work from our complex. We knew it had been bought by a new company, so we were unclear about what would happen with the new terms. When I received the fax, I was shocked! To stay in our current place, we had the options to:

Sign a 7-12 month lease and pay $50 more a month
Go month to month and pay $125 more a month

As silly as it seems, even the $50 was too much for us to handle. We are barely making ends meet; getting by on the skin of our teeth. It's strange to make the decision between paying a bill and buy groceries. (NO - we aren't starving, we just have to cut back on the pricier foods that I we like to enjoy). Ultimately, we decided the only logical, adult decision was to move out. The major problem? No savings. This means we can't get a new place, since we can't put down a new deposit or pay to have utilities and such transferred.

When we finally agreed that moving was going to happen, I didn't feel the way I expected. Relief was what I was expecting. Failure is what I felt. We've been on our own for almost 5 years now and yes, we've been in tough times before. My Mom has been extremely supportive in helping us when we needed it, but I couldn't, in good conscious, ask her for more help.

For now we are in limbo. Our official out-by-date is June the 14th. Don't I always say I'm not gonna move during harvest?? The original plan was to have the BF move back in with his parents, and I would move in with mine. They live about 30 minutes apart. Not a huge deal, but still difficult. Now we are thinking of both moving with his parents. While I was originally against this, I do think this transition time would be easier if we could live in the same place. His parents are discussing the matter right now, so I can only hope that they say yes. I can't imagine, after 4 years of living together, not being able to wake up and go to sleep next to him every night. But if its what we have to do, its what we have to do.

So for now I am going to enjoy and savor every second that I get to spend with this guy:

It will be okay...

2011-05-13T16:05:00.000-05:00

Sometimes Hopeless

2011-05-11T08:18:00.000-05:00

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An Exciting Weekend

2011-04-28T14:19:00.000-05:00

It has been a while since I've written..shocker!

I'm not going to pretend like everything is kosher, but its not terrible either. After revealing what I struggle with, the past few weeks have been spent working through some different aspects of the struggle. Sometimes I feel like the day will never end and I won't make it through. Then I remember that the struggles that I am facing are nothing compared to other people. I've been reading the book Fit From Within by Victoria Moran.

Some of the things she talks about I already knew, but its really been helping me put things in perspective. Only about 1/4 of the book left and I can't wait to finish!

Other than that, things are really starting to pick up here in Never Say Never-land...finals are upon us, as well as wedding season, lots of bachelorette parties, and races!

Friday night and most of Saturday will be spend working on a dreaded case study - bleck! Sunday I am so excited to support my cousin Kristin in her very first race - The Johnston's Wichita Half Marathon!! I hope you all have a wonderful weekend too!

Help Justine Breath: A Coachathon by Sarah Yost

2011-04-11T15:04:00.000-05:00

Hi everyone!

My cousin Justine is 25 years old and is currently living with Cystic Fibrosis. On October 30th of last year, she underwent a life changing double lung transplant. She is currently living in Minneapolis, MN doing rehab. Because her recovery has taken longer than anticipated, she is running short on funds. Please visit the following website and see the awesome fundraiser Sarah Yost is doing to help Justine!

Help her breathe easier!!

Who am I to judge?

2011-04-01T11:08:00.000-05:00

Thank you SO much for all the support on my post from yesterday. I honestly had no idea that so many other people had gone through the same experiences and had come out on the other side better than ever. Thank you again from the bottom of my heart!!!

Something extremely unsettling happened this morning...I got up, went about my normal routine. I opened the fridge and removed all the ingredients for my tasty breakfast sandwich...same one I eat day in and day out, even on the weekends. It took me a moment to realize the terrible truth...we were out of eggs. Rarely do I ever eat anything but an egg sandwich for breakfast. And honestly, I have eaten the same breakfast for almost two years. It never gets old. I am definitely one of those people who can eat the same things everyday. Most days I do.

After the shock had worn off, I stood there in my kitchen trying to decide what in the world I could eat for breakfast. There were many different choices that I could choose from: cereal, pop tarts, oatmeal, yogurt and oats, ~~M&M's~~...Nothing sounded good. I opted for cereal, even though I knew it wouldn't keep me full. Saddened by lack of eggs, I trudged to work, still hungry...

Do you know why I chose the cereal?

It was one of the healthiest options. I could have made oatmeal, but it wouldn't have kept me full either. It was a lose-lose in my book. To be truthful, my eating hasn't been the healthiest this week. Even though I planned meals for every night of the week, most nights we ended up going out. I couldn't pass up a dinner with a good friend, and who wants to stay home to watch the championship game? These are only excuses, but why do I even feel the need to justify my choices?

Looking at my lunch box today, some people might very well scold me. My lunch? A hot pocket. My afternoon snack? PB&J made with Jiff peanut butter. Everyone is entitled to eat they way they want. Dress the way they want. Act the way they want. Do we need to justify any of it? Heck no!!

It is my personal experience that I have felt pressure to eat a certain way. Even though I stopped taking pictures of my food ages ago, I still felt like I needed to have a big salad once a day, or use lots of vegetarian proteins. Where is the pressure coming from? Mostly from me!! Truth: I enjoy eating buffalo wings, and greasy sandwiches, and potato chips. I want to be part of the healthy living blog community, so I am trying to cram myself into the same types of eating as all the different blogs I read. There is no need for that. Obviously from the responses I got from my post yesterday, this community is going to accept me for who I really am, not who I pretend to be. Thanks to Julie for the quote "You do you".

Do you ever feel judged for the way you eat? Do you eat "too healthy" or "not healthy enough"?

Have you ever caught yourself judging someone else?

When I first began reading healthy living blogs, I definitely saw a change in my attitude. I almost had a "holier than thou" vision towards others. In my head things would play "I can't believe he is eating that!" I had to stop and tell myself to check it.

I never said I was all sunshine and rainbows....

2011-03-31T09:37:00.000-05:00

There is something that I have been keeping from you. A secret of sorts...

I have heard many other bloggers talk about point of view. A blogger can make it seems like their life is all rainbows and sunshine. You only see what they want you to see. I've tried to keep things up beat on the blog. But when I am feeling one thing, and trying to present another, it just doesn't work. Very few people who actually read my blog know me in real life. Those of you who do (if there are any) know that I can be a very pessimistic person. There have been a few different situations that have been brought to my attention in the last few months that really upset me. I have hurt some people close to me. Upset me enough that I needed to talk to someone. I always thought people who saw therapists were nuts. Turns out....I'm a nut too.

Do you know what she told me? She says I have depression.

I'm not telling you this so you will feel sorry for me. I'm not telling you so you will try to comfort me. I'm telling you this so you can understand why I am struggling and why some days (or weeks) I just can't bring myself to write.

I struggle with a lot of things. Sometimes they are small; sometimes they are large. There are days when I can put on a brave face. There are days when I can't do anything, but sit at my desk and cry. I am taking one step at a time to try and deal with all these different emotions. Learning how to grow. I honestly don't think I know who I am or the direction I want to go.

I believe that if I can embrace this journey, it will help me in all aspects of my life. I accept the ups and the downs. The highs and the lows. The good and the bad. Embracing all the emotions that come with this journey will make me a stronger person (I hope). For now, I am going to take it a day at a time. Enjoy the little things and experience today. That's all I can ask for.

“Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate. Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure. It is our light, not our darkness that most frightens us. We ask ourselves, Who am I to be brilliant, gorgeous, talented, fabulous? Actually, who are you not to be?You are a child of God. Your playing small does not serve the world. There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people won’t feel insecure around you. We are all meant to shine, as children do. We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us. It’s not just in some of us; it’s in everyone. And as we let our own light shine, we unconsciously give other people permission to do the same. As we are liberated from our own fear, our presence automatically liberates others.” – Marianne Williamson

Spring into Action: Week 2 Update

2011-03-16T11:15:00.000-05:00

Hey friends! Hope you are having an awesome ~~Thursday~~ oops Wednesday. Today is my Thursday, since I am taking off work on Friday. We all know you are going out on Thursday to celebrate, let's not pretend like Friday would be an easy day!

Week 2 Update:
Weight loss: +0.6 (+.02 from start)
Pushups: 108 (125 total)
Weights: 2 this week!
Balance: Still a work in progress

Over this week has just been so so. I had a good long run on Saturday, but lack luster workouts Monday and Tuesday. As for eating, it has been hit and miss. I still have trouble stopping when I am full and choosing healthy, unprocessed foods. I feel I am getting closer to finding balance, but its still a struggle sometimes. I'd like to thank everyone who is supporting along not only this challenge, but my overall journey. I appreciate each and everyone of you!

Make sure you pop over and congratulate my partner Brittany ..... she just received news that she passed her tests and is now a licensed nurse practitioner!!!

Link Love

I wanted to share some links that I have been loving recently!

Andrea shared about how blogging saved her

Tina shared her tips for eating in moderation

Share It Fitness had two great posts about Body Diversity Training and Shopping the Border

Kali gave us a great race recap and told us why she is staying 24

Hope you enjoy these links as much as I did!! Have a great Wednesday!

A Creed to Live By

2011-03-14T13:26:00.000-05:00

A Creed to Live By
Don’t undermine your worth by comparing yourself with others. It is because we are different that each of us is special.

Don’t set your goals by what other people deem important. Only you know what is best for you.

Don’t take for granted the things closest to your heart. Cling to them as you would your life, for without them life is meaningless.

Don’t let your life slip through your fingers by living in the the past or for the future. By living your life one day at a time, you live all the days of your life.

Don’t give up when you still have something to give. Nothing is really over … until the moment you stop trying.

Don’t be afraid to admit you are less than perfect. It is this fragile thread that binds us to each other.

Don’t be afraid to encounter risks. It is by taking chances that we learn how to be brave.

Don’t shut love out of your life by saying it’s impossible to find. The quickest way to receive love is to give love. The fastest way to lose love is to hold it too tightly, and the best way to keep love is to give it wings.

Don’t dismiss dreams. To be without dreams is to be without hope. To be without hope is to be without purpose.

Don’t run through life so fast that you forget not only wher you’ve been but also where you’re going.

Life is not a race, but a journey to be savoured each step of the way.

Nancye Sims

Thanks to Gina for posting this on her blog....love this!!

Words to Move You

2011-03-12T09:11:00.000-06:00

"To be sure, there have been perfect days and great miles, as well as horrible days and awful miles. There have been times when I couldn't wait to run and times when I couldn't believe I had to run. And there have been runs I wished would never end and runs that seemed they would never end. But even the longest runs end. Even the wost races are over eventually. The days and the miles and the races keep adding up. And before you know it, you are someone you never expected to be. You are a runner."

- John "The Penguin" Bingham

I'm headed out to get my long run in for the weekend. The plan is to do some miles by myself, then meet up with a friend for the middle miles, then finish up on my own. I will keep this quote in my mind the whole time! Have a great Saturday!

How do you motivate yourself during a tough run or workout session?

The Great Stretching Debate

2011-03-11T09:55:00.002-06:00

How is everyone's Friday so far?

For some reason, the BF and I have been oversleeping like crazy the past week or so. He has to be at work at 6 am and I have to be at work at 8 am. Today he got up at 5:45 and I got up at 7:25 !! Who knows if he made it on time, but thankfully I did! Maybe if we didn't debate about different workout topics once we get into bed, we might be able to get a little more sleep in. Last night topic?

Stretching before a Workout

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After my less than stellar run yesterday, I mentioned to the BF that maybe if I work on my flexability some, my legs wouldn't feel so stiff and tight. He replies, "Well maybe if you would stretch before and after like me, you wouldn't have that problem."

My first reaction was "Oh no he did-unt!!!!"

Once I had put my big-girl pants on, the debate begun...I have done lots of research about optimal exercising. And by lots of research, I mean hound people on Twitter and Google my face off. Most articles I have come across mention that is can now be detrimental to perform static stretching before a workout, increasing the risk of injury.

USA Today posted an article stating: "Many people take it for granted that they should start their exercise routines with some stretching on the spot, perhaps hoping it will loosen them up for their work-out. Most fitness experts now agree this kind of static stretching before exercise is not just counter-productive, but potentially harmful."

Gatorade Sports Science Institute post a review stating: "Young and Behm (2003) compared five “warm-up” protocols used before jumping tests. The protocols were 1) control; 2) 4-minute submaximal run; 3) static stretch; 4) run plus stretch; and 5) run plus stretch plus practice jumps. Performances for the 16 subjects were poorest after static stretch."

Jacob Wilson, PhD, was noted in a Wed MD article saying, "In his own research, he found that it's not good for enhancing performance, either. In his study, runners who stretched didn't run as fast in a half-hour performance run as those who did not stretch.As to why the switching was associated with a higher risk of injury, Wilson can't offer an explanation either. He speculates that stretching may somehow change the running pattern, which in turn somehow boosts injury risk."

Now, I am not saying stretching is bad. Stretching has been an integral part of my ability to run as much as I do. Stretching helps manage my IT Band tightness and relieve pain in my legs and lower back. But I do not agree with static stretching before a workout. I believe in a solid warm up of 5 to 10 minutes of low intensity movement, whether that be walking, jogging, or running through your weight routine with light weight. I have found that dynamic stretching helps loosen me up. This is just my personal opinion.

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What is your opinion? Does is matter when and how you stretch?

Spring into Action: Week 1 Check In

2011-03-10T09:21:00.000-06:00

Has is already been a week since the challenge started??

Time is really flying by! This past week I have seen some ups and downs with the scale, as well as some emotional ups and downs. If you don't follow me on Twitter, you may not know that I took a whole week off from exercise. Most of the week, I felt like I was struggling emotionally, and I thought it better not to make things worse by feeling guilty about missing workouts (not that you need to feel guilty about missing a workout!!). It was pretty refreshing to just come home and focus on the last little bit of my social psych class.

Stats:
Weight loss: -0.4 lbs
Pushups: 17 (totally didn't count these right)
Weight workouts: None yet!
Balance: Lost it a couple times, but back on track now!

Don't forget to head over to my partner Britt's blog and give her congrats on her awesome loss this week!!

Now for a recipe! I'm not sure I have ever posted a recipe that I came up with, but I am excited to share with you. This dinner came out SO well! It was a big hit with the BF too!

Mini Meatloaves

1 lb ground beef (97/3 - or turkey, whatever protein you want!)
1/2 onion finely diced
1/2 breadcrumbs
1/2 ketchup
1 egg
1/2 packet onion soup mix
S & P

Start by preheating your oven to 350 degrees. Mix all ingredients in a bowl until well combined. Separate the meat into 8 individual balls of approximately the same size. Grease the outside 8 cups of a 12 tin muffin tin. Press one meatloaf into one muffin tin. Bake for 40 minutes. Enjoy!

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Serving Size: 2 mini loafs

Amount per Serving

Calories 286

Calories from Fat 89.1

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 9.9g: 15%
Saturated Fat 3.63g: 18%
Cholesterol 123.75mg: 41%
Sodium 742mg: 30%
Total Carbohydrate 21.62g: 7%
Dietary Fiber 0.84g: 3%
Sugars 9.85g
Protein 25.72g: 51%

Hope you enjoy making these delicious mini loafs! Have a great Thursday!

Shrinking Jeans Spring Challenge

2011-03-04T13:21:00.000-06:00

This post is a little late, but better late than never right?

Earlier this week, the Sisterhood of the Shrinking Jeans Spring in2 Action Challenge began!

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I am partnering with the wonderful Brittany from Less Britt More Life for this 6 week challenge....psst she just completed her first half marathon and took the NCLEX test to become a licensed nurse....go give her some props!!!

Wednesday is our weigh in day. We both weighed, but aren't sharing. I've done it before, but don't see a need for it right now. Some goals I have pledge:

1) Lose 10 lbs - already on my way to this! Whoop!

2) Get in 2 strength workouts a week - none so far : /

3) 100 pushup challenge - check it out here!

4) Focus on eating a balanced diet every day - doing really well on this so far!

Those are my goals and I am sticking to them. This will take me all the way up till I start taper for my next half marathon!

Friday Confessions

2011-03-04T12:56:00.000-06:00

What better day is there than Friday???

NONE!

At least, that's what I say! I am very ready for the weekend - its jam packed with tons of fun (and some not so fun) plans. The most exciting thing you ask? I get to puppy sit!!

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The little nugget looks almost exactly like this. She is completely precious and I can't wait for lots of fun play time and snuggle time! I miss having a dog so much, but I know its not in the cards or the budget right now. Although, I have begun to plant ideas into the BF's head about when and what kind of doggie I would like.

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My future dog!!

The not so fun plans include the first half of a seminar class. Tomorrow I will go through 8 hours of assertiveness training....

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Because we all know I need to learn how to become more assertive....

Time for a confession: I haven't worked out since Sunday...really...After I almost got hailed on during my run on Sunday (then standing in soaking wet clothes in cold temps for a few hours), I definitely felt under the weather on Monday. I've had a runny nose and lack of energy all week, which is an ~~lame excuse~~ understandable reason to take some time off from training. But..tonight I will try to squeeze in some cross training and then I an willing myself to have an glorious 8 miler on Sunday.

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What fun plans do you have for the weekend?

Facts About Me Friday

2011-02-25T14:56:00.000-06:00

So much for the regular blogging!

Who knew it was the beginning of baseball season? It totally blindsided me this year. I can't say that I am a big baseball fan, but the BF is. In an effort to support him in his interests (and because I get in free!!) I join him at the local university baseball games. The only downside to baseball season is the cost...see our stadium has a unique feature we like to call The Hill..

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Instead of being forced into uncomfortable metal bleachers, Shocker fans can enter through a gate in the outfield and sit on a hill that over looks the stadium. They also can bring in coolers, BBQ grills, and food! This does save money over buying from the concession, but sometimes I wonder if he doesn't spend more bringing all this stuff in. We always share food and beer with others in the group. I love baseball, but its killing our bank accounts. He's opted for season tickets this year (I get in free with my student I.D.) Plus I have put a limit on how much beer he can take (sad, I know..) Here's hoping we don't go bankrupt supporting our Shockers!!

I will almost guarantee that you've seen this on another blog..(I got the idea from Kim @ Healthy Strides)...so here are some fun facts about me...

A. Age: 23
B. Bed size: Queen
C. Chore you hate: Folding laundry..we just take stuff out of the basket as we wear it...
D. Dogs: None as of yet..but I really, REALLY hope to get one for Christmas/Birthday/Graduation ..hint hint...wink wink...nudge nudge
E. Essential start to your day: Buffalo egg sandwich
F. Favorite color: Pink or black.
G. Gold or silver: Silver all the way...and I usually don't where anything but diamonds
H. Height: 5'5"
I. Instruments you play: I used to play the piano..not so much anymore
J. Job title: Freight Clerk, Grain Clerk, Accounts Payable Rep, and many others...
K. Kids: No thank you!! I'm still recovering from the babysitting years...
L. Live: Wichita
M. Mom’s name: Mary
N. Nicknames: Sam, Brownie, Chunky Monkey (don't ask)
O. Overnight hospital stays: None!!
P. Pet peeve: People being late, loud chewing or swallowing, whistling, and many, many more things..I'm kinda O.C.D.
Q. Quote from a movie: "I don't know how to put this but I'm kind of a big deal."
R. Righty or Lefty: Righty
S. Siblings: An older sister, Maggie
T. Time you wake up: around 6:30 or 7
U. Underwear: ...are optional....
V. Vegetables you dislike: I'm not sure there are any....
W. What makes you run late: The BF or other people...
X. X-rays you’ve had: Teeth and chest
Y. Yummy food you make: I am known for my hummus....its face rocking, but there are many things I like to cook or bake...
Z. Zoo animal favorite: Hmmm.. that's tough...probably the tigers

Have a great weekend!!!

Everybody's Free

2011-02-19T11:45:00.000-06:00

It has been years since I have seen or heard this video, but it really spoke to me. The messages it shared are very insightful.

Fashion Fix: My Every Day Jewelry

2011-02-18T11:56:00.000-06:00

I am one of those girls that wears the same jewelry every single day. Even though I have lots of different pieces, I stick with the same 3 pieces. The main reason I wear the same pieces is because they were all gifts from the BF...I feel really guilty because he spent some much on them. Well not a fortune, but I love them none the less....

For our first Christmas together, he got me a diamond necklace!!

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I was really surprised by it because we had only been dating for 3 months..The funny thing is I didn't even notice the necklace when I opened the gift. He put the necklace on a cute Build-a-Bear. I opened the box and said, "Oh, this is cute..." and had a blank look on my face. Classic! He had to actually point it out.

For our second Christmas together, he got me a pair or diamond earrings!!

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I have to admit that when I first got these earrings, I wasn't impressed ( I know I was being a brat!!) Whenever I would wear them, I would get super paranoid they would fall out. Soon I realized that I can pretty much do almost anything and they stay put. I love how simple and elegant they look.

The piece that I love the most is the ring he gave me for our 2 year anniversary!!

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Mine looks very similar to this, except my center stone is square. He was so smart to get me all square stones!! I do wear this ring on my left ring finger, but it is not an engagement ring. We have been together for almost 4.5 years, but we aren't ready to get married. We are happy just the way we are. Its tough when so many other people are getting married, but that only means when we decide to get hitched, it will be our time in the spot light!

There is one other piece I wear a lot and that is my class ring...

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Yes, you saw that right. That is my class ring. I really didn't like the idea of a normal class ring. No one wears them after they get out of high school and I wanted something I could wear forever. My Mom knew what I wanted, so I fronted some money and it was mine. It's an awesome right hand ring now. Unfortunately, my finger swells and sometimes its a little too snug. I'm sure that won't last for too much longer.

Can you tell I am a diamond girl???

Do you have pieces you wear everyday or do you mix it up?

Why I Chose to Take a Break

2011-02-17T13:08:00.001-06:00

When I originally started blogging, I thought it was going to be a breeze. There are lots of blogs that I read everyday, and those great women (and men!) sometimes post up to 3 times a day. It shouldn't be that hard for me to post once a day....or so I thought. For the first few months, I wrote my blog posts in the same style as many of my favorite bloggers. I took lots of ~~craptastic~~ rough pictures of my food, and droned on about my workouts. It wasn't really me.

Coming up with topics to right about was and still is difficult to me. I would start a challenge here and drop out before the finish was even close. When I couldn't roll out the posts like all the bloggers I admire, it made me feel bad. But why? Did I need to blog like they did? Of course not! With all the pressure from work and school, I was just putting more pressure on myself to perform in the blogosphere. I chose to take a break to really think about if I wanted to keep doing this. Ultimately, I believe I do. Blogging is an expression of who you are. I still don't think I have found my voice. But I do know one thing. Blogging is something I want to do. I will have to work hard to be good at it, and grow it in the ways I want. I dream about following in the footsteps of Tina and Meghann. The only way to get there is to work at it every day. Small steps can lead to great things.

At the end of the day, all I need to worry about it what I want to share. I feel honored to have made so many great friends through blogging and Twitter. From here on out, I am going to give you all I have. I can't promise it will always be up beat and cheery. But it will be real.

If you have any topic requests you want me to write about, please feel free to submit them in the comments or in an email.

Moratorium on Blogging

2011-01-28T12:57:00.000-06:00

For the time being, I am going to take a break from blogging. Its a laughable matter since I really haven't been blogging much lately. I'm feeling a lot of different pressures and stressors. Some time off to gather my thoughts and deal with some personal issues is what I need. Hopefully I'll be back soon.

Day 1: Your Current Relationship

2011-01-26T21:31:00.000-06:00

How's your Wednesday so far?

Its been a long day. Slow and painfully long. Crawling into bed is going to be a glorious thing. And its a terrible thing I am about to do.....no post today. Yep, way to crap out of the first day. Double post tomorrow....

30 Day Challenge

2011-01-25T16:33:00.002-06:00

I've had a rough morning. Even day. Since the beginning of the semester, things have been all over the place. I've been struggling with healthy eating, getting in my scheduled workouts, homework, blogging...you name it. In the past, I've committed (unsuccessfully) to blogging for X number of days, or doing X number or workouts, or eating X number of calories. After letting myself down so many times, I've learned that I don't have to set such high standards. I am a busy person!!

Full time job, full time student, full time girlfriend, full time friend, full time housekeeper!

I can't always be full time for everybody or everything.I had a long discussion with Tonyne and Matt about exercise guilt. So I have 6 scheduled days...and I only made it to 2. Does that make me a failure? Should I give up and never try again?

Hell NO!!!

It means that I let my schedule get too busy. I didn't prioritize my day to make exercise important. I got emotional and told myself my body was tired and needed to rest. Maybe I needed rest maybe I didn't. It's in the past now, and there is no use on dwelling on it. Too much to do to worry about the past...

In other news....I found this on Janetha's and Eliza's blog. This is the perfect challenge because I have provided topics...so no more brain storming for crappy topics or worse yet, no post at all! It will also give me a chance to work on being a little more honest on the blog. I am on the fence right now as to whether or not I want to put more ~~money~~ love into blogging. Hopefully this challenge will help me discover that! Day 1 starts tomorrow!

Defying Gravity

2011-01-12T11:01:00.000-06:00

I need a little pick me up today, and this song always does the trick. Enjoy!

Be back with a meatier post soon.

Something has changed within me
Something is not the same
I'm through with playing by the rules
Of someone else's game
Too late for second-guessing
Too late to go back to sleep
It's time to trust my instincts
Close my eyes: and leap!

Guest Post: Learn to Play Mind Games.... with Yourself

2011-01-08T08:27:00.000-06:00

Hey everybody! My weekend is jam packed with unpacking (finally!!) from our move, so Lindsay from The Lean Green Bean has offered to write a wonderful guest post for me.

Enjoy!!

_______________________________________________________________

Hi there, Never Say Never friends. My name is Lindsay and I blog over at The Lean Green Bean (http://theleangreenbean.blogspot.com). Samantha was nice enough to let me guest blog for her today and share some of my thoughts with all of you. I’m currently in school studying to become a Registered Dietitian so I’m always looking to share my knowledge and help make people healthier!

Today I thought I would share with you some tricks I use to help avoid overeating. I’ve found that if I can trick my mind into thinking I’m eating more than I really am, my body feels satisfied with a normal, healthy amount of food!

So here we go!

1) Eat 5-6 small meals per day.

Just remember they have to be smaller than normal. Your mind will THINK you’re eating more but really, you’re just spreading 3 bigger meals out into 6 smaller ones!

2) Use smaller plates.

One of the main reasons people eat too much is because the physical size of plates and other dishes is constantly increasing. If you put a normal-sized portion on a regular dinner plate, it looks tiny and wimpy and you automatically want to add more! Choosing to use a salad plate as your dinner plate will make those normal sized portions take up more of the plate and LOOK bigger, even though they’re really not.

3) Make things mini.

When you’re cooking or baking, make things smaller. I like to make mini loaves of bread, mini muffins, slider-sized burgers and mini meatloaves. There are tons of cute mini dishes out there. This way, you can eat two or three mini servings and FEEL like you’re eating a lot, when in reality they just add up to eating a normal sized portion!

4) Eat big salads.

As long as you’re careful with the dressing and other unhealthy toppings, eating big salads is a great way to get your recommended amount of veggies for the day AND eat a lot without feeling guilty J Just what everyone is looking for, right?

5) Eat a variety.

Choose smaller amounts of several different foods to fill your plate. It will make you feel like you’re eating a lot because you’re eating such a wide variety. However, you WON’T be breaking the calorie bank if you make healthy choices and choose small portions!

So there you go. Just a few tips to trick yourself into eating healthy amounts!

How do you stop yourself from overeating?

Thanks again to Samantha for letting me guest post on her lovely blog! Feel free to stop by The Lean Green Bean for some new recipe ideas!

--Lindsay--

Morning Motivation

2011-01-05T13:08:00.000-06:00

Can you believe it's Wednesday already? Even though it is, the weekend can't seem to get here soon enough!!

Trying to stick with my New Year's Resolutions, I have been toying with the idea of switching to morning workouts. I've touched on morning workouts before, heck, I've even done morning workouts (very few, mind you.) It would be a major understatement to say I am not a morning person.

There are lots of good reasons to workout in the morning:

It can energize your day
Your evening will be completely free
Chances of missing will diminish

I'm positive that there are more reasons. I just can't think of them. Reasons I don't make it to my morning workouts:

My bed in ridiculously comfortable
Its incredibly warm
Hard to leave the warm body next to me

It is my goal for January that I make it to at least 6 morning workouts. When I say morning, that means a weekday (Saturday doesn't count!). Here are some links from some great bloggers on how to get your butt in gear in the morning:

Tina wrote "Morning Workouts: Tips for Getting Your Butt Out of Bed"

Matt wrote "It Was Hilly Today"

Julie wrote "How to Workout in the Morning"

Lola wrote "Sharing What Works"

Caitlin wrote "Tips for Staying Motivated in the Winter"

What are your tips for getting in gear in the morning?

The New Year is Here

2011-01-03T14:38:00.000-06:00

How was your New Year's Eve?

I know I am super late getting around to this, but since I got back from Florida, I've been spending as much time with my sugar as I can. Officially, I have been deemed the biggest baby in the world. We were only apart for 6 days, but that's the longest we've ever been apart. I have serious separation issues people!!

Now that a new year is upon us, everyone is posting about their new year's resolutions. Me being me, I am going to join in on the fun because really? Doesn't everyone set some kind of NYR?

For my main list I am going to use my 23 in 23rd goals. These are all goals I want to accomplish, but in order to accomplish each one, I need a more specific plan. For the time being, I am going to set weekly goals. Meeting these weekly goals will help me build up to achieving the big goals!

For this week:

Workout 4 times (including 2 runs)
Read for 15 minutes every night
Cook dinner every night
Limit drinks to 3 on weeknights, and 2 per game (or party) on weekend
1 morning workout

Did you make any NYR?

How are you going to make good on those resolutions?

The Dinner Time Battle

2010-12-20T13:36:00.000-06:00

There was a time when I remember planning my meals for the whole week. I eat the same exact breakfast every single morning...2 scrambled eggs on a sandwich thin with a slice of cheese and buffalo sauce.

(source)

This was the best discovery ever!! Thank you Tina!!

Generally, I have a few snack choices and I pick whatever sounds good that day. I always eat a morning and an afternoon snack. I've found eating 6 times a day to be the best plan for me. For the first 5 meals of the day, I can stick to healthy eating rules, but here's the dilemma. When it comes time to cook dinner...a battle begins.

Only in the past year or so, have I begun to explore healthier eating options. The BF, on the other hand, doesn't really prefer healthy options. By no means does he just eat junk, but he is not a fan of the veggies. I have been able to expand his repertoire a bit. When we started dating, he ate nothing but raw carrots, raw broccoli, and green beans...usually I end up making something different for him. I cook two dinners most nights. Sometimes I just give up and eat what he eats.

(source)

If he even sees a pea or a mushroom in the food, he won't eat it!! Generally, if I don't cook dinner, her gets fast food (expensive!!), or just has a protein shake. Cue the guilt!! What should I do?

So here is the debate...

Does your significant other eat the healthy things you make?

How do you feel about making two meals?

Hope you had an awesome weekend!! Only 5 more days til Christmas!!

Office Treats

2010-12-16T10:55:00.000-06:00

Every year around Christmas time, the office gets bombarded with goodies. Some homemade, but most are sent by our customers....usually we have a lot of repeats. So far this year we've received...

Fancy mixed nuts...

(source)

A personal meat and cheese box plus one for the office...

(source)

A big box of popcorn...

(source)

And a giant tub of peanuts...

(source)

More than likely we will get more sausage and cheese. Its the typical company gift. Cause who doesn't like sausage and cheese?

Normally I don't eat these foods, but its Christmas time! I agree with Caitlin when she says she won't have any Guilt-Driven Living. I know there is really no hope in trying to lose weight during the holiday season. As long as I can maintain, or cap it at a few pounds, I'll be happy!

Now I've got to the grind stone. Have a great Thursday!!

Spicy Tofu Stir Fry

2010-12-15T20:16:00.000-06:00

Tonight I tried a new fitness class at the gym. As of late, workouts have been on the bottom of my to-do list. I've run here and there, but I haven't actually been to the gym in few weeks. Whenever a chance presents its' self, I usually talk myself out of going. But, in order to force myself to go, I made a date with my friend Hollz. If she was waiting for me, I knew I would follow through. Tonight we Zumba'd!!

(source)

Unfortunately, I did not feel as awesome as any of these people look. There was really no instruction, so Hollz and I had to figure it out by watching other people, which is even more awkward. Do you like being stared at in class? I will more than likely give it another try, but for now I am going to stick with turbo kick, running, and yoga.

I was sup-ah excited to get home because I planned to make an awesome dinner. After seeing a recipe for Sweet and Spicy Tofu with Steamed Kale on Evan's blog, I knew I had to try and make it myself.

I haven't been super successful making tofu before, but I am bound and determined to make it edible!!!

First I gathered all my ingredients for the tofu....

The only sub I made was cayenne pepper instead of chili pepper....

I mixed up the sauce...

Then I got cookin!!

I chopped up a bunch of veggies....bok choy, carrots, onions, and mushrooms...

After a quick sautee... I had an amazing dish!!

Sorry for the terrible Crackberry pictures....my point and shoot is out of commission!! I highly encourage you to try this or any of Evan's recipes...

I'm off to shower and watch some Top Chef...have a great night!!

23 in my 23rd Year

2010-12-14T21:42:00.000-06:00

This post has been a long time coming...I originally planned to publish this post on the 23rd birthday (over 2 weeks ago!!), but I could not compile a list to save my life. I was enjoying the Fit Blog Chat tonight when two lovely ladies posted links the their lists....

Ashley wrote 25 @ 25

and

Lizzie wrote 25 at 25

My list of 23 in 23...

Run 5 races
Save $1000
Attend yoga once a week
Blog twice a week
Get a road bike
Graduate from college
Compile my cookbook
Read 10 books
Learn how to invest my 401K
Lose 50 lbs
Go on a girls only trip
Run another half marathon
Learn to swim
Buy a new car
Volunteer with Girls on the Run
Practice more mediation
Pay off a credit card
Celebrate 5 years with the BF
Get a new tattoo
Complete a triathlon
Try going vegetarian for a month
Compile a more professional work wardrobe
Have a personal day once a month

The upcoming year is going to hold some amazing journeys for me. I can't wait to share them with everyone!!

Music Monday

2010-12-13T08:27:00.000-06:00

Hey everyone! Is it really Monday?

The weekends always seems to speed by. Now that my schedule has slowed a bit, I actually feel like I have a weekend. Lots of lounging happened yesterday. Well, lounging and wine. Does that really surprise anyone??

Here are a few songs that I've been loving lately. Hope you enjoy them too!

Have a great Monday!!

No Run for the Record Books

2010-12-11T10:06:00.001-06:00

This was not the way I wanted to start my Saturday...

Today: A few morning showers and sprinkles ending, then clouds and some sun. Very windy and sharply colder with steady to falling temperatures. Hi: 39 Wind: NW 20-40
Tonight: Stars and a few clouds. A bitter wind. Lo: 12 Wind: NW 10-25
Tomorrow: Mostly sunny, windy and quite cold. Hi: 29 Wind: NW 15-30
Tomorrow Night: Mostly clear, breezy and cold. Lo: 10

(source)

All week long we had wonderful fall like temps. Yet, I woke up this morning to howling winds. As the BF was walking out the door, I questioned how bad the wind was. He replied, "Eh, not so bad. Maybe 10 - 15". Yea.....not so much.

As soon as I turned out of the cul-de-sac that wind slapped me in the face! 5 miles was on the schedule, but unfortunately, Iet the wind get inside my head. I couldn't make myself go the whole way. I cut down a side street to finish up my "old 2.5 mile route"...which according to my Garmin is actually only 2.3 miles....goo!

I felt like a combo of these two pictures...

Ok, so maybe it wasn't that awful...but I thought it was. I'm off to buy a neck/face cover and I'll hit the road again tomorrow. Without the craptastic runs you can't have the amazeball runs. True story.

I think I've kept you glued to your seat long enough.

Enjoy your Saturday!

Some Blog Love

2010-12-10T14:02:00.000-06:00

How glad are you that its Friday!!

I'm not sure I can even adequately express how happy I am. This weekend is going to be packed with fun stuff. Tonight I have bunco, and ~~unfortunately~~ a final to finish. Tomorrow there will be running, relaxing, packing, and UFC. Sunday will include some power yoga, and more relaxing...oh and maybe some studying for my last final...maybe...

I have been adding blogs to my Google Reader like crazy!! Here's a list of some of my most recent addictions:

Ashley @ Healthy Ashley

Ali @ Ali on the Run

Katy @ A Healthy Shot of Life

Matt @ The Kitchen of a Runner

Kelly @ Foodie Fresh

Janetha @ Meals & Moves

John & Sherry @ Young House Love

Carla @ Will Run for Health

Sheesh! Now that is a good list...

Do you read these blogs?? What good blogs am I missing??

Thankful

2010-12-09T12:44:00.001-06:00

Hey everybody! Long time no blog...

With the start of the holiday season, training, and finals at school, my life has been going full speed ahead!! I am very much looking forward to the upcoming days. The BF and I have lots of plans with friends and family. I also have a trip to Florida coming up in only 20 days!!

That's right...the sand is so white, it blends in with the page!!

(source)

Training is going fairly well.I realize that I am going to have to put a lot of focus and dedication in this time around if I want to see the results I want. My main goals:

Increasing speed
Keeping a steady pace
Finish without walking ( pipe dream!!)

In order to train better (in my mind at least), I needed a little tool to help me out...introducing:

(source)
I haven't thought of a name yet, but I was so excited to get this!! On Amazon, I found one for around $130, which I think is a deal. Last night I got home from work, and the last thing I wanted to do was run...But, I had just gotten my Garmin and I'll be damned if I wasn't going to use it the first night!! I ran for 1.85 miles (which I thought was a 2 mile route!) and held a 13:13/mile pace. Not the best time in the world, but I just wanted to run. Using it for my long run on Saturday will be super fun!!

With the arrival of the holiday season, I've been contemplating some things; things I am grateful for...

Although money is super tight for the BF and I right now, I am more grateful then ever that I get to come home every night and spend time with him. I'm grateful that I get to go to sleep next to him every night and wake up with him every morning.

I am grateful that I have the opportunity to go to school and get an education. But I am also grateful that the semester is coming to a close (next Tuesday!!). Having so much on my plate (work, school, training, family, friends) can get overwhelming at times. And I would much rather spend time with friends then on school work!!

(source)

I am thankful for my amazing group of friends that surround me...

Excuse the trashy bra strap!

My amazing family...

I am grateful that I am able to run when I want to...

(source)

And finally, awesome blog posts that make me feel better when I am down... Life In The Long Run from The Kitchen of Runner.

What are you thankful for?

I am sure there are a lot more things I could come up with, but for now this is enough. The weekend can't get here fast enough, but until then, I'll have my head buried in a text book, preparing for finals!

Training has begun!!

2010-11-29T10:42:00.001-06:00

Hello all! How was your Thanksgiving holiday??

I had a wonderfully low-key, and relaxing weekend. While I didn't make a fortune at the casino on Saturday, I had fun hanging out with my wonderful friend Holly.

Holly, myself, and Robyn

As for my birthday, I saw Love and Other Drugs, which I thought was just ok. I didn't know what the movie was going to be about when I went in. If you are thinking about seeing it, just know it has a lot of, umm, intercourse..Then I had an awesome evening just hanging around the house with the BF. We caught up on a few episodes of The Amazing Race.

I am also very excited to announce that yesterday (Nov 28th) was the first day of training!! On April the 16th, I am planning on running my second half marathon, The Oz Marathon.

Ever since I finished my first half in October, I've been itching to race again. My training plan was kindly provided by Amanda at Two Boos Who Eat. It's 5 months long and is perfect for a semi beginner.

I say semi-beginner because I was terribly unprepared for my first race. My training was fast and very incomplete. I missed a lot of runs and simply didn't cross train or really stretch. Because of this, I had terrible knee pain for more than half the race. This time around, training is going to be longer and more thorough.

I promise my 24 by 24 post is coming up soon. Making this list has been MUCH harder than I anticipated...so far I only have 5 of the 24 filled in. Whittling goals down so they aren't super vague is the hardest part.

Alright people, have a great Monday, and I will check ya later!

Making my List

2010-11-23T08:41:00.000-06:00

Hey everyone!

I know its been a long time since I've updated, but honestly I've been a little nervous to post. That may sound ridiculous, but there are some things I have let fall by the wayside. I'm still working on a long post detailing the tough times I am trying to deal with. But until then, I have decided to compile a list! My birthday is on Sunday, and I'll be turning the big 2-3!!

After chatting with some friends on Twitter , I have decided to make a list of 24 things to complete before 24.

I already have some things in mind, but I need help thinking of other. I would also like some help as to how to make some goals more specific. Any suggestions you have, I would love to hear!!! Hit me up on twitter or leave a comment.

Stay tuned for my complete list!! Hope everyone has a lovely Tuesday!!

And the tough times keep on rollin'

2010-11-08T22:16:00.000-06:00

Hey everyone. I hope you are having a good night.

I can honestly say that this has been one of the toughest times in my life. I lost my Grandpa just a few months ago, and just last week my Dad had a health scare. Now, I've been told that it won't be long before my Grandma passes too. I can say it is really hard to focus on school, or work, or really anything.

I am taking a short hiatus from the blog. But I promise I'll be back.

"I have just three things to teach: simplicity, patience, compassion. These three are your greatest treasures." ~Lao Tzu

"If you realize that all things change, there is nothing you will try to hold on to. If you are not afraid of dying, there is nothing you cannot achieve." ~Lao Tzu

"Life and death are one thread, the same line viewed from different sides." ~Lao Tzu

"Life is a series of natural and spontaneous changes. Don't resist them - that only creates sorrow. Let reality be reality. Let things flow naturally forward in whatever way they like." ~Lao Tzu

Rough Weekend

2010-11-07T21:04:00.000-06:00

Hey everyone! How has your weekend been treating you?

I have (unfortunately) had a really rough weekend. I've had some family emergencies (thank you for all the prayers!!!) and some housing issues. Because of all the flux with these things, I haven't been able to get a post up in a few days.

The challenge is still in my mind, but hasn't gotten the attention it needs. Here's hoping that I can reset my focus and get back in the game. For your viewing pleasure, here is a snap shot of what the BF and I had for dinner....

Grilled chicken, grilled steak, roasted veggies (squash, zucchini, onion, and mushrooms), mashed taters, and a side salad...with a glass of vino, of course!!!

CE: 23/60
RT: 4/12
CT: 9/25
WL: 4.5/10
PG1: 14/33
PG2: 45/201
PG3: 10/33

Funkerella

2010-11-04T13:13:00.000-05:00

Hey peoples, how's it hanging today???

Like many others in the blogosphere, I generally try to keep the tone of my posts as upbeat as possible. But some days are just plain crappy. Life can't be all rainbows and sunshine all the freakin' time. And just like the past 2 weeks, Thursday rolls around and it has been one big suck fest....in an effort to cheer myself up I have been listening to these two songs on repeat all morning....and I will continue to do so all afternoon. 5 o'clock really can't come fast enough. I just want to run people....

CE: 18/60
RT: 3/12
CT: 8/25
WL: 2/10
PG1: 12/33
PG2: 45/201
PG3: 9/33

Early Morning Workout

2010-11-03T11:00:00.000-05:00

Hey people! Its Wednesday, are you excited?

Wednesday is almost as good as Friday, making it half way is a good sign!

Generally speaking, every night I go to bed telling myself I will get up and workout before I go to work. And almost every day, I press snooze and skip the morning time slot. What can I say? I am so not a morning person. I'm still trying to figure out how I ever functioned without coffee...

Today was different. I went to bed at the same time, but I was wide awake at 5 am. Normally, I would force myself to go back to sleep for another hour, however, whenever I do that, I feel tired. Sometimes it feels like I haven't slept at all! I did lay in bed for about 5 minutes thinking, "You know you'll feel like crap if you go back to bed. How nice will it be to have the evening completely free?? It really isn't that cold outside!" Guess what? I GOT UP!

Cue the choir of angles!!

(Source)

Yes, it happened exactly like that...I changed things up this morning, and did a longer full body routine I found at Project Swole (dot) com . It was a good routine. The only thing I didn't like was I got in no cardio. I almost always do 15 - 20 minutes of intervals after I lift. Maybe its just habit, but it was a weird feeling. Hopefully I can fit some yoga or more stretching into my evening!

What kind of workout did you do today??

CE: 16/60
RT: 2/12
CT: 7/25
WL: 2/10
PG1: 11/33
PG2: 45/201
PG3: 8/33

Sharing some link LOVE!!!

2010-11-02T12:41:00.002-05:00

Hey everyone! How is your Tuesday??

I should being doing home work right now, but instead I am going to share some links to blogs posts that I am absolutely loving today! Hope you enjoy them as much as I do:

Christie wrote about Getting Started with Seated Meditation , something I have been interested in for a while. This post couldn't have come at a better time!
Katy reviewed the 30 Day Shred DVD and gave her amazing results. I own this DVD but haven't ever used it. I think I will be soon!
Andrea shared a Serious Post. I love Andrea's blog for a number or reasons (she lost 135 lbs!!!), but her posts, serious or silly, always have a way of touching my heart.
Katie made me drool all over my keyboard with her Pizza Rolls post.....enough said!\
Julie inspired me to run tonight by telling me how to run When I'm Not in the Mood to Run .
Brittany and Emily are getting their own domains!! Run over and give them some love!

I'm off to read some more blogs! Have a great afternoon!

CE: 14/60
RT: 2/12
CT: 6/25
WL: 2/10
PG1: 10/33
PG2: 45/201
PG3: 7/33

What a weekend!

2010-10-31T21:09:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone! How has your weekend been

This has been the busiest weekend for me in a long time! Immediately after work on Friday, the BF, a coworker of mine, and I hit the road for Manhattan, KS. My work was throwing a customer appreciation event at the KSU - OSU football game on Saturday. Friday night was less than stellar. We stayed with a close friend of the BF's, but I have to say, we won't be doing that again. After a pub crawl around the bar scene, we didn't end up falling asleep til 4 am! That made for an extremely early wake up call at 7:30. We had catered BBQ that was decent, but nothing to jump about. I'm not the biggest college football fan, so I ended up hanging at the tail gate most of the day. Unfortunately, that also meant I was near the keg most of the day. I definitely had my fair share of beer. A long car ride home, and I was safely in bed by 9 pm!

Even with my early bed time, I was still tired when I woke up this morning. It was nice to lounge around and savor my coffee. I did have to make an appearance at work before my gym time though. I was so excited to go to power yoga again today, but this class was hard. My feet felt really crampy and every pose took a little more focus than normal. It may or may not have been caused by dehydration from game day LOL! I did have my second free session with my trainer today. During our first session, we mainly just talked about history and training style. I had no idea what she was going to do to me! We did a type of power circuit: 3 different exercises done for a minute each, then 20 seconds of each, all back to back. After the first 2 circuits, I was wiped. I actually had to ask her to stop and do something else. It was not my proudest moment.

Other then that, I haven't done much of anything today. I'm getting ready to do some reading, and call it a night. Hope you had an awesome weekend!

What was the high point of your weekend? Did you dress up for Halloween?

CE: 11/60
RT: 2/12
CT: 6/25
WL: 2/10
PG1: 8/33
PG2: 15/21
PG3: 6/33

Final Friday

2010-10-29T13:48:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone!!

Its been a crazy couple of days for me, and we are just getting ready to kick it into high gear for the weekend!

CE: 9/60
RT: 1/12
CT: 4/25
WL: 0/10 (will weigh on Sunday)
PG1: 6/33
PG2: 15/201
PG3: 5/33

For the first time in a while, I really don't know what to write about. Hmph....I hope that everyone has a wonderful Friday and an even better weekend.

Wordless Wednesday

2010-10-27T08:29:00.000-05:00

(All above pics from People Online)

Ok, so not totally wordless...

CE: 7/60
RT: 1/12
CT: 3/25
WL: 0/10
PG1: 4/33
PG2: 0/1
PG3: 4/33

Getting Back on Track

2010-10-26T10:20:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone! How is your Tuesday so far??

I have to say that Tuesday is so far much better than Monday was. Normally, I get up, read some blogs, drink my coffee, eat a yummy breakfast, and simply enjoy the piece and quiet of the morning. Because the place I work is laid back and generally a dirty place, I don't have to dress up (even though sometimes its fun!)

Normally, I also don't shower in the morning, I shower at night after the gym. There are two ways to style my hair...down, like in the picture. The other is a pony tail. Today, I feel so much better because I actually put some effort into getting ready for work. This might have to be an every day occurrence!!

33 Day Challenge

CE: 5/66
RT: 0/12
CT: 2/12
WL: 0/10
PG1: 3/33
PG2: 0/1
PG3: 3/33

Notice my numbers....Yesterday was the first day that I lost a clean eat. Now, I don't believe that I ate anything that was "dirty". I decided to make some pumpkin bread last night. Of course I had some leftover chocolate chips, so I threw them in the mix. This bread was seriously the bomb! It was moist, and perfectly spicy. However, I got carried away. I ate two whole slices last night. Since I didn't work out yesterday (my heart just wasn't in it), it knew it was going to impact my weight loss.

This morning I was mulling over what happened. I realized what happened, accepted it, and moved on. There is no need to dwell on what happened. the bread was delicious, and I just ate a little too much. This happens! Its not going to change my mind set for today. I am still going to make healthy choices. Accept it and release it.

Have you experienced any bumps in the road yet? How are you overcoming them?

Oh Monday..

2010-10-25T19:44:00.000-05:00

Does anyone else think that Monday's should just be skipped??

I haven't had the best day, so I won't bore you with a debbie downer post. Instead, check out these two amazing posts to see what I have been up to tonight...

Pumpkin Bread from the lovely Gracie Meets Life

Chicken Stew from the wonderful Andrea at Can You Stay For Dinner

Have a great night! Here's hoping for a better Tuesday!

CE: 4/60
RT: 0/12
CT: 2/25
WL: 0/10
PG1: 2/33
PG2: 0/1
PG3: 2/33

Quick Update!!

2010-10-24T15:42:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone, how is your Sunday so far???

My day has been tres relaxing so far. Some mornings I wake up and it feels like I never went to sleep. I'm groggy and just plain tired. Today was one of those mornings. Luckily, I was able to lounge around, read the paper and enjoy my morning coffee.

Finally I got my butt into gear and hit up both the grocery store and Sports Authority. The usual suspects were seen in my cart: eggs, milk, bagel thins, tons of veggies, and various fruit as well. I am excited to try out a new Quorn product (I bought this with my own money.) The gruyere chik'n cutlets

I've seen these floating around and I was really excited to see that they were almost half off normal price this week! SCORE!! As soon as I try one, I will let you know what I think.

Today's cardio training was super exciting to me because its the first time I have actually take a yoga class somewhere besides my living room. It was power yoga class lasting about 75 minutes. After the intense turbo class yesterday, I didn't think I could sweat any more. I was very wrong! At one point in the class I looked up to see how to do a certain pose and I saw this....

(source)

Yea, not so much. One day I'll do this, but today is not that day!

Now I'm all yoga'd out and ready to kick back and watch some football. I've packed hummus and veggies for a snack in case I need to eat. Always having healthy snacks on hand will help you avoid those tempting fatty football dishes!

Have a great afternoon!!

33 DC Numbers:
CE: 2/60
RT: 0/12
CT: 1/25
WL: 0/10
PG1: 1/66
PG2: 0/1
PG3: 1/66

(Note: These numbers reflect just Saturday)

Day 1 Update

2010-10-23T21:21:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone!! How is your Saturday treating you so far??

I have had one busy day, and I am super glad to be relaxing at home with my DVR. Today was the first official day of the Healthier Me in 33 Challenge. The only way to start this challenge was to go at it full force! One great way to get in your exercise for the day is to recruit a friend. I was supposed to catch a step class with my friend Carrie. Unfortunately, she was unable to make it. Had this happened to me 6 months ago, I would have been disappointed and forgone the gym altogether. Even though I was disappointed I wouldn't get to see her, I knew that I needed to go any way.

Let me tell you that belonging to a new gym can be scary. It always seems like everyone in the class knows one another, and some how I feel left out. It's all in my head!! Do you think those other women always felt comfortable being in the class? There was a day when they were new too. The only way to get past my fear is to face it head on. Boy, was I glad I did!!

I don't think I have ever sweat that much from a cardio class. The teacher for turbo kick was high energy and fun. She also made sure to call everyone out for doing a good job. We did 10 straight minutes of squats. I really did think my legs were going to fall off!! Going to the class was a much better way to spend an hour, rather than trying to entertain myself on the elliptical. I was a sweaty beast when I got home!!

Please contain yourselves....I know I look smokin!

There was only one thing on my mind when I got home from the gym. I needed something cool and creamy to refuel after that tough hour long class.

A green monster of course!! Ever since I saw these on Angela's blog, I fell in love! I promise you can't taste the spinach one bit. My recipe of choice is:

1 banana
1 cup 1% milk (Or milk of choice)
1/2 - 1 cup frozen fruit
2 giant handfuls of spinach

Place them all in the blender, and blend away!

My afternoon was unfortunately not as exciting. Science is just not my strong point. Listening to a lecture about rocks and water is not my idea of good time. Alas, its what I must do. I was excited to get out of class and head to lunch with my sister and my mama. My sister is turning 26 tomorrow, and we went to a local Mexican joint to celebrate!!

From L to R: My cousin Mallory, my, my cousin Sarah, and my sister

Its so funny that my sister and I have completely different personalities as well as features. I have stick straight dark brown hair and she has super curly blonde hair.

We had a great time catching up about her new job and all the excitement going on with my job, but the time went too fast. Before I knew it, I was home and dressed up to head to dinner with the BF and his cousin Shawn and Shawn's girlfriend Keisha...

They are two good looking people!

1 cup of miso soup, a seaweed salad, and a sushi roll later, my evening was complete. I'm sad that Shawn and Keisha are moving far away soon, so I'd like to get together as much as possible!

Now I am home, wrapped up in my jammies and ready to watch a few episodes of The Big C or maybe Biggest Loser. I can't wait to see how everyone's first day went. I am working on a sheet for everyone to track goals on so make sure to check back tomorrow or Monday to add your stats.

Hope you had an awesome Saturday!!

33 Day Challenge

2010-10-22T12:39:00.002-05:00

What's up people?

IT'S FRIDAY!!!!!!

After some consideration and hard thinking after my S.M.A.R.T. Goals post, I've decided that I need more specific, short term goals. I know I've touched on the 52 Day Challenge before. The more I think about it, the more I realize that really, the only time I have even made any weight loss progress was during a challenge. Having to meet specific goals every day can provide great motivation and focus!! (If you are interested in learning more about the original 52 Day Challenge, you can click here.)

(Please remember that I am not a doctor, nutritionist, registered dietitian, or trainer. What I am talking about is based on MY personal experience, and it works for me. Please adjust it to fit you and always check with a doctor before starting a diet or exercise plan)

So here are the specifics!

The challenge will run from Saturday, October 23rd through Wednesday November 24th
Each day you will have 2 eats : one for the morning/lunch and one for afternoon/dinner/eveneing
There are two types of training: RT (resistance training) or CT (cardio training)
You can set as many or as few goals as you would like (don't overwhelm yourself though!!)
Have fun!

Eats: Each day there is the opportunity to choose healthy, whole, unprocessed foods. The original challenge called for "clean" eats. I both agree and disagree with this. I do agree that foods should be as unprocessed as possible, but I don't think that any food should be deemed "dirty". Try to fill your body with foods that are good for you. And I'll say this: its up to you to decide if you have met your eating goals. If you build in that treat, be it a brownie or glass of wine, that's fine. But don't say you got in clean eats if you are chowing down on "treats" right and left. In the end, you are only tricking yourself. Hold yourself accountable.

There are 33 days in the challenge, which means there are 66 eats possible. Set a goal for yourself. Strive for 50 good eats out of 66. Always give yourself a little wiggle room for those unforseen circumstances. I can definitely relate to the late night pizza run or game day nachos!

Workouts: There are two types of training; resistance and cardio. I won't sit here and tell you only X,Y, Z are considered cardio or weights. If you consider it a workout, then count it!! Again, like I said about the eats, if you know you didn't give it your all, then you will only be lying to yourself. Choose how many RT and CT sessions you would like to complete. Make sure you don't over estimate these goals either! Make sure you give yourself enough of a break between lifting days. Also, be realistic. If you don't do any resistance training now, don't expect to start doing it 3 times a week. Same with cardio. If you only fit in 2 times a week, don't shoot for 6 times during the challenge. Pick something that will challenge you!

Side goals: These goals can be anything you want. I will personally have a weight loss goal, and a few others. If you want to spend more time reading, or with your husband, set it as a goal. I usually shoot for 3 to 4 side goals as well.

Here is an example of how I will be posting my goals:

CE: 0/60/66 <--- 0 is how many I have now, 60 is my goal, and 66 is total possible
RT: 0/12 <---- 0 is how many I have, and 12 is my goal
CT: 0/25 <----- just like above
WL: 0/10 <--- how many lbs I would like to lose (shoot for 1-2 lbs a week)
P1: stretch everyday: 0/33
P2: Finish 1 book(non school) : 0/1
P3: Blog everyday: 0/33

Easy, squeezy, lemon peasy!! I encourage anyone that wants to join and roll along with me. You can post your goals and daily challenges on your own blog, or in the comments section if you don't have your own. I only ask that you link back to my blog if you post it on your own. I will update my progress everyday, although my posts won't always focus on the challenge or fitness even. Sometimes its fun to just be a little silly and talk about celebs!

I hope you are as excited for this as I am!!

***EDIT***

If you want to post your numbers here that's great!! You will post your daily results the day after they happen. So you will post your eats, workout, and personal goals from Saturday on Sunday.! If you have any other questions feel free to email me or hit my up on Twitter Brownie8727 - search for the hash tag #33DC !!

Celebs!!

2010-10-21T14:00:00.000-05:00

Hey all! How stoked are you that tomorrow is Friday!?

I have to say that today has been dragging @$$ like nobody's business....and it might be because I have one more day before the weekend, but I am in a funk. So I thought I would keep it light today with some celebrity pics...Enjoy!!

(Source)

Miss Kim Kardashian modeling the belted look I touched on yesterday. I think this look is a little extreme, but then again I don't have her bangin' curves either!

(source)

Oh Whitney, did you just get out of bed?

(Source)

Now for some eye candy...if that's not enough, just wait for their accents...you'll melt like buttah!

(Source)

I am seriously digging this outfit on Jennifer. Functional, yet stylish!

(Source)

And here's one more for a good giggle. Sometimes I wonder what these new "pop" stars are thinking when they come up with their image? Singing about being wasted all the time is going to get old pretty fast...

Be back with another post tomorrow!!

Does that degree really matter?

2010-10-19T10:45:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone, how's your Tuesday going??

Things have really been shaken up around my office. I can't really go into specifics, but the company I work for was just bought out by another major company in our field. All the employees are pretty uneasy about the deal, but we just have to trust the bosses when they say things will stay the same.

As I was sitting at my desk (working of course), I really couldn't think of anything that I wanted to blog about. My camera is out of commission, so food pics were out of the question. There is nothing wrong with blogging about fitness two days in a row, but I'm really not feeling it today. Then, out of habit, I decided to check my online grade book for my classes. Shocked really doesn't express the way I felt when I saw that I went from having a 94% to a 77% ..... seriously!?!?! Hopefully I will be able to rectify this, but that got me to thinking.....is this whole college thing really worth it??

(source)

I always knew that I would go to college. Its what my parents wanted. Its what we do after high school. How do you even know what you want to do with the rest of your life when you are 18 years old?!? When I first started college, I didn't do so hot. My freshman fall semester, I dropped 2 classes, failed 2 classes, and passed 2 classes. Needless to say, I wasn't a happy camper. The farther along I got in college, the more I wondered if it was really for me. Yes, they say over your adult working career you will make almost a million dollars more with a college degree than without (Source). But you also have to weigh if the student loans will be worth it.

Maybe I am jaded from my experience. You see, I've never been your typical college student. Since my first year, I have worked a 9-5 job, and taken night classes. I also never moved away from home. So no dorm living, no frat parties, no spring break, and no general college experiences. Its not my scene. But I've kept going, mostly for my mom. Right now I am on track to graduate in December of 2011, and as of right now, my career and life will not change because I graduate college. My boss won't give me a raise because I have a degree, he's told me so. I also may be bitter because I know my salary won't increase, yet I'll have those lovely loan payments every month.

What is your opinion? Did you go to college? Do you think it has benefited you in your career?

My S.M.A.R.T. Goals

2010-10-18T12:08:00.000-05:00

Bueno everyone! How is your Monday morning treating you?

Not gonna lie, I'd rather be doing anything else besides work. Not a really shocker huh?

Now that marathon training is over, I need to set my sights on a new goal. Over the last week of rest and recovery, I've been contemplating what kinds of goals I would actually like to have. Building a new routine and healthy habits is high on the list. They (whoever "they" are) say it takes 21 days to form a new habit. So, I am doing to build some SMART goals for the next 3 weeks. In case you don't know what SMART goals are:

S = Specific
M = Measurable
A = Attainable
R = Realistic
T = Timely

My specific goal is to make it to the gym 5 days a week. I will lift 3 times a week, whether it be on my own or taking a Muscle Pump class.

Measurement will consist of tracking how heavy I lift. I carry a journal with me, and will track the weights for both type of lifting. I will also be measuring weight and body measurements, but don't feel this is necessarily to share on the blog since everyone is different. I don't believe telling you my specifics will actually benefit anyone bu myself.

Making it to the gym this many times a week is completely attainable. I have the convenience of 2 different Y branches, which I can hit before work (not likely!) or after work.

Is 5 days a week realistic? Yes, I've done it before and I can do it again. My schedule is basically the same, and its more a lack of motivation that keeps me out of the gym or off the yoga mat.

Timing is everything. One of my favorite quotes :

“Don’t wait until everything is just right. It will never be perfect. There will always be challenges, obstacles and less than perfect conditions. So what. Get started now. With each step you take, you will grow stronger and stronger, more and more skilled, more and more self-confident and more and more successful.” (Mark Victor Hansen)

If I don't start now when will I? Its my time down here, down here its my time. (Name that movie?) Basically, get the bootay in gear!! I haven't decided if I want to track calories. Its worked before, but I think I would like to focus more on portion size more than anything else.

That is the plan for now at least...if you have some free time, check out these awesome blogs posts I came across this weekend.

Ashely and Steven talked about a survival guide for desk jockeys like me!

J's shared a fierce fashion for today! Love the pink and the wide legs!

Andrea talks about trusting yourself! Congrats on the Women's World Article again!!

It's lunch time for me, so I'm gonna catch up on some blogs, and think about doing homework. Check ya later!

Did someone say shoes???

2010-10-13T13:11:00.000-05:00

Hey everyone!

I'm gonna try and mix it up today with something not food, exercise, or weight loss related. I mentioned that I can be kinda weird, and I am trying to find my own place here in the blog world. I've always wanted to talk about other topics and today is the day!!

Some may say that I have a problem, but a la The Fitnessista , "I like my money where I can see it, hanging in my closet!" While I love shoes, I don't own a lot of them. I have one pair of sandals that I wear pretty much every day, rain or shine, snow or heat. But I dream about shoes. Especially boots since its almost the winter season. Here are some that I am jonesin' for right now:

Zappos - Cole Haan Booties - Very chic. Spice up a pair of jeans or pair with cute mini.

Zappos - Roxy Hamlet Pearl - These look functional, yet comfortable. I could wear these all day!

Payless - Sweet Pea Boots - A more affordable form of comfort!

And finally, let's throw a tall boot in the mix...

Payless - American Eagle Marley Flat - Tuck in the jeans or pair with tights for a sleek, but comfortable look!

Truth...I only buy shoes at payless. The reason I don't own a lot of shoes is because I had super wide feet, and can't find a lot that fit. Plus, I'm a cheapskate !!

Hope you enjoyed this little gem!

Do you have a favorite pair of shoes? What are your favorite trends right now?

Half Marathon Recap

2010-10-12T12:52:00.000-05:00

It feel so rewarding to say that I completed a half marathon!!

My recap isn't going to be nearly as cool as all the marathoners mainly because I have zip in the way of pics, but here it goes anyway.

Sunday morning I woke up and I was definitely nervous. All those months of training, and the day was finally here!! The BF was at work so I was all by my lonesome getting ready. I got dressed and did my best to go "potty" before leaving. Luckily, I had no problems and before I knew it, I was zipping into the parking lot. I arrived about 45 minutes early and had no problem finding a spot fairly close to the start. The only thing that made me a little sad was that it seemed like every other runner had someone to talk to. I was to only one warming up by myself. I felt a little lonely, but once I lined up, the ladies around me were nice and we talk for a bit before the actual start.

One of my major complaints about the race was the start. We began on one side of a bridge in a pretty small space. Once the gun went off people started running, but it was like a slinky effect. We would start jogging, then have to walk, then jog again. After about half a mile, things began to widen and things were rolling. The music on my iPod had my cranking out a steady pace (although I had no idea what it was). I felt good.

Let me say that I am very blessed to have a family that is so supportive of my goals. My aunt, who also does triathlons, met me at mile 3 with a water bottle full of ice cold water. I knew she was going to run with my for a bit, but I had no idea for how long. At first I felt bad that I was stopping to walk, but then I realized that this is my race, and I can only do what I can. I know that if she hadn't been with me, I would have walked infinitely more. My cousin also met us at mile 4 and ran with me for 3 miles. I am so grateful they did! They had made a sign with my name, and when we ran past people, they held it up so everyone would know my name. It really helped during the middle miles.

After about 6 or 7 miles, my right knee really began to hurt. I'm not sure if it was because of lack of stretching my IT Band or lack of training, but pushing through was the only option. This course had so many twists and turn, it was unreal. There were also quite a few places where we only had about 5 feet of width to run. Having to slow down to let marathoners get by kind of irked me, but it wasn't a huge deal. Around mile 10, I passed my Mom's work. I don't know what made me so emotional, but as soon as I saw her I started tearing up. I only talked for about 30 seconds, enough to say I love you and down some ibuprofen, and I was off. Only a 5 K left to go.

This was where it got really hairy. I was seriously doubting myself at this point, but I knew there were so many people depending on me to finish. Coming up to the last water station, I saw one of my best friends, the BF's mom, and there right after the water station, was the BF, dressed in workout clothes ready to finish the race with me. I got so choked up when I saw him. I told him he didn't have to come, but he knew how important it was to me. I half walked, half jogged the last mile. Having him by my side made it so much more bearable. When I came around the bend, for the last stretch, I knew it was almost over. We sprinted across the bridge and across the finish line!! I thought I would be more emotional, but it was only relieved.

My official time was 3:08:53 - comes to a 14:25 mile

All in all, I am so happy I finished. I will do somethings differently next time, and hopefully smash my PR.

Thank you to everyone who gave me advice and motivation to complete the goal. Without you, it would have been infinitely harder.

Never Say Never

Yoga...Where have you been all my life?

New Year, New Me

Thoughts for the New Year

A Woman Should Have...

Things I've Been Enjoying

Limbo

Holiday Challenge Update

Is this thing on?

Once in a Lifetime

New Challenges

Rosstoberfest Race Recap

Nothing is Impossible

Ooops I did it again...

Exercise makes all the difference

5 Years of Memories

A New Beginning

What is there to say?

Training Week 6 Recap

Training Week 5 Recap

I Will Act Now

A Recipe and A Review

Internal Conversations

Determination Tuesday

Training Week 4 Recap

Facing the Long Run

Training Week 3 Recap

Warrior Dash Recap

Wordless Wednesday

Training Week 2 Recap

Weekend Motivation

Motivation

You can't win them all...

Training Week 1 Recap

For every up there is a down

Morning Success!

Time to Light My Fire

Transitioning

A Special Note

My First Award

The Busiest Month

Things I Love Friday

Long Weekend

Priorities

If you fail to plan...

Confession

Wordless Wednesday

Another new adventure

Change is a good thing...

It will be okay...

Sometimes Hopeless

An Exciting Weekend

Help Justine Breath: A Coachathon by Sarah Yost

Who am I to judge?

I never said I was all sunshine and rainbows....

Spring into Action: Week 2 Update

A Creed to Live By

Words to Move You

The Great Stretching Debate

Spring into Action: Week 1 Check In

Nutrition Facts

Amount per Serving

% Daily Value *

Shrinking Jeans Spring Challenge

Friday Confessions

Facts About Me Friday

Everybody's Free

Fashion Fix: My Every Day Jewelry

Why I Chose to Take a Break

Moratorium on Blogging

Day 1: Your Current Relationship

30 Day Challenge

Defying Gravity

Guest Post: Learn to Play Mind Games.... with Yourself

Morning Motivation

The New Year is Here

The Dinner Time Battle

Office Treats

Spicy Tofu Stir Fry

23 in my 23rd Year