tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4703842621329330422024-03-12T19:56:23.040-04:00The Rolling AppleOne of those 'apples' who fell far from the tree and rolled....and continues to roll through life's challenges 30 days at a time.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07861398917692830163noreply@blogger.comBlogger16125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470384262132933042.post-2869770685475488092013-08-16T14:46:00.001-04:002013-08-16T14:46:48.935-04:00Challenge 1 : Spending FreezeAfter purchasing a home this past Febuary, adopting an adorable puppy in April and working my butt off to get unpacked and decorated...it is time to take a look at the finances. You're cringing I know, I cringed at the though too! However, it is so important to keep on track and not turn a blind eye to your spending.<br />
<br />
Inspired by <a href="http://www.livingwellspendingless.com/31-days/livingwellspendingzero/" target="_blank">LWSL</a> the first 30 day challenge I am going to tackle will be my spending. Over the next 30 days I will not only create a budget, cut spending, and save money. I'm going to evaluate what I'm buying that I could really do without. I am also going to try my hand at couponing and earning income through selling a product on Etsy.<br />
<br />
Excited? I am! Hopefully my journey will serve not only as starting point for me (or pure entertainment for you as you laugh alongside me at the struggles I'm sure are headed my way) but also as a chance to inspire you to try your own spending freeze!<br />
<br />
Now while I am using Ruth from LWSL as an inspiration, I am altering her idea to fit my life and my goals. Along with cutting spending I am also going to throw myself into the world of CrossFit. I know I know, how am I going to sit here and say I'm cutting spending as I sign up for the expensive world of CrossFit. Well let me let you in on a secret.... <a href="http://www.groupon.com/" target="_blank">Groupon</a> deals! Okay, so not really a secret. Anyway I bought a groupon last month and plan on using it starting Monday to get myself back into shape and give me something to do besides going to Target and spending money on needless items after work.<br />
<br />
I hope you will join me on this 30 day spending freeze of a journey!<br />
<br />
Day 1 - Today.<br />
Goal: Evaluate my fixed and variable expenses in order to determine what I am really working with in order to create a realistic budget.<br />
<br />
There are tons of great resources to help you layout and really look at your expenses and create a budget. Just hop on google or pinterest and you can find free printables everywhere. The key is finding one that works best for you!<br />
<br />
Below are some links to sites with printables and tips on creating your budget<br />
<a href="http://thebudgetmama.blogspot.com/2012/08/monthly-budget-printable.html" target="_blank">The Budget Mama</a><br />
<a href="http://www.livingwellspendingless.com/2011/07/20/the-beginners-guide-to-savings-week-2/" target="_blank">LWSL</a><br />
<a href="http://tipnut.com/budget-worksheets/" target="_blank">Tip Nut</a><br />
<br />
Happy Budgeting!!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07861398917692830163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470384262132933042.post-21397254234365396502013-02-19T11:18:00.000-05:002013-02-19T11:18:02.020-05:00Packaging Up My ResourcesWhen it comes to fitness apps and resources many people want an all inclusive, one time download, one login source for every piece of information they will need. While some websites come close, no one place is ever enough for the average person. I'll admit that I used to expect to find every aspect of fitness and healthy eating all in one place. Take note: <i>I USED TO</i>!<br />
<br />
Recently, as I've gotten more serious about being healthy and fit, I have found that you cannot expect a one stop shop with all the answers. By pulling from a variety of places I have finally started to take strides instead of baby steps. This being so I decided to share my package of resources for those of you out there who are still thinking in my old way.<br />
<br />
The best way to get in the right frame of mind to understand why it is important to use various resources is to think of it like your birthday. Lets jump back to the 90's and say you opened up a new walk-man. (I know how excited I was when I got my first one) This is cool and exciting and you're already thinking about how great you'll look when you walk through the neighborhood using it. But wait, having a walk-man isn't so great unless you have a CD to listen to. And you can't very well listen to a CD without headphones. Once you've memorized every single song on your N'Sync CD and played it so much you can't stand it you will need another CD to occupy your ears won't you?<br />
<br />
Hopefully you see where I'm going here...but if not:<br />
The walk-man is a calorie counter app you downloaded on your phone. It is great and wonderful and you track everything you eat each day. You've lost a pound or two but if you really want results you need to workout, which means you need another place to find workouts you'll love or in our 90's birthday scenario: the CD. But how much better would your results be if you focused on the balance of carbs, protein and fats you need along with the calories? And what about how much that run took out of you that you now need to eat in order to hit your counts for the day? Enter headphones. Once you've been at it for awhile you plateau, you've got to mix things up to continue seeing results. How do you do that? You need a new place to find workouts or recipes, or a new CD.<br />
<br />
Now that you've got the picture here are the resources I have been pulling from. When it comes time for my new CD I will be sure to update. Take them one at a time, unwrap them, play with them, take the time to get comfortable and then open the next.<br />
<br />
My Fitness Pal - <a href="http://www.myfitnesspal.com/iphone" target="_blank">App</a> & <a href="http://www.myfitnesspal.com/" target="_blank">Website</a><br />
Allows me to track food and exercise. The website is much more useful than the app, but the app allows me to enter my food as soon as I eat it so I don't forget later on.<br />
Favorite: The website aids in my meal planning so that I can make sure that what I plan on eating will meet my needs. It's easy to add, remove and adjust servings on the website so I can enter a whole day ahead of time if I want.<br />
<br />
My BodySpace and bodybuilding.com <a href="http://www.bodybuilding.com/" target="_blank">Website</a><br />
The body building website is an awesome resource for full workouts, exercises, meal plans, total fitness plans, information on supplements and recipes. The BodySpace allows you to set and track your fitness goals and connect with others through groups or friendships. It is a great place to network, find inspirational people, ask questions and hear about others successes.<br />
Favorite: I love that I can find a total workout routine to download but if there is an exercise I can't do or don't like it gives you options of other exercises which will work the same target area. Makes swapping things out but still getting the same result very easy.<br />
<br />
Ask the Dietitian - <a href="http://www.dietitian.com/index.html" target="_blank">Website</a><br />
This is the resource I used to really learn and understand what my body needs and why. There is tons of information to help you understand any and all thing body/diet related.<br />
Favorite: On the site you can find body calculators that not only spit out a number but also tell you why the numbers are what they are and if they are good or bad for you.<br />
<br />
Hope you all enjoy!<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>What resources are your favorites??</b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07861398917692830163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470384262132933042.post-28844982114058617152013-02-07T12:31:00.001-05:002013-02-07T12:31:30.736-05:00Chicken & Spinach QuesadillaI tried a new recipe last night that I cannot get over! It's been on my '<a href="http://pinterest.com/baillynicole/food-baking/" target="_blank">Food & Baking</a>' pinterest board forever now and I'm mad at myself for not trying it sooner.<br />
<br />
It's a super easy recipe and the filling is to die for. The writer of the blog where I got the <a href="http://www.othersideoffifty.com/2010/06/chicken-spinach-and-cannellini-bean.html" target="_blank">recipe</a> said her husband ate his share without even putting it in a tortilla...I can totally see why. I tossed my left over filling on top of some baby romaine and spinach this morning to bring for lunch. Boy was that a good idea! I can't decide if I liked it better last night when it was warm and in a tortilla or now when it is cold and on top of a fresh bed of greens.<br />
<br />
Give it a try...I highly highly recommend it!<br />
<br />
Find the recipe on '<a href="http://www.othersideoffifty.com/2010/06/chicken-spinach-and-cannellini-bean.html" target="_blank">The Other Side of Fifty</a>' or see it below:<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Chicken, Spinach And Cannellini Bean Quesadillas</span><br />
<br />
<br />
<img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5486661708431529618" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCu1f4ov8MPI_cQG70bWSsDCK2RUXBZoBLxfj8tPBg2156r3AjrVuC4XLXgzQ6H6rkg1b4KiRDXp1NJuERvEefQDAQabCzS3xUGbTcw00oQntDEAQFQFzv977cJWCJ7p8s7fiOwTNmqo5j/s400/quesa1.jpg" style="display: block; height: 300px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 400px;" /><br />
1 1/2 -2 cups seasoned, cooked and diced chicken breast meat<br />
1 TBSP olive oil<br />
1 cup diced onion<br />
1 cup diced red bell pepper<br />
1 banana pepper, diced<br />
a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes<br />
salt and pepper<br />
1 clove garlic, minced<br />
1 (heaping) TBSP all purpose flour<br />
3/4 cup chicken broth<br />
4 cups fresh baby spinach, stems removed, coarsely chopped<br />
1 (15.5 ounce) can of cannellini beans, drained and rinsed<br />
<br />
Cooking spray<br />
Flour tortillas<br />
Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack, cheddar or a combination of the two works well here)<br />
Avocados, diced<br />
Fat free sour cream<br />
<br />
In a large skillet heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion,
red bell pepper and banana peppers. Season with the crushed red pepper
flakes and salt and pepper. Saute until veggies have softened, 6-8
minutes. Add the garlic and saute for another minute or two. Sprinkle
the flour over the veggies and stir to combine. Cook while stirring for
several minutes so that the flour loses its raw taste. Whisk in the
chicken broth and stir until bubbly and smooth. Add the baby spinach
and continue cooking for another minute or two or until spinach has
wilted. Stir in the cooked chicken and cannellini beans and remove from
heat.<br />
<br />
Spray a large skillet or griddle with cooking spray. Heat over medium
to medium-high heat. Place one tortilla on griddle and spread cheese
over tortilla. Spread chicken, bean and spinach mixture over one half
of the tortilla. Check underside of tortilla and when browned a bit,
flip the half with just cheese over the half with the chicken. Remove
from heat and cut into slices. Top with diced avocado and sour cream,
if desired.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
*Recipe and photo credit to '<a href="http://www.othersideoffifty.com/" target="_blank">The Other Side of Fifty</a>' Blog Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07861398917692830163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470384262132933042.post-13174817057491118932013-02-06T14:12:00.001-05:002013-02-06T14:12:19.082-05:00Gettin' Rollin'<br />
<div style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;">
</div>
<br />
The HealthysELF challenge started on Monday. I also decided that Monday was the day to really kick healthy eating and working out into gear. All or nothing right?<br />
<br />
Yesterday I began a 12 week fitness program I found on <a href="http://www.bodybuilding.com/" target="_blank">www.bodybuilding.com</a> that looks very doable for me. They have a variety of programs that you can follow as well as all kinds of exercises you can pull from to create your own program. I also love that their website has such a variety of resources that relate to overall fitness. The name is a little deceiving when you really look at what the site has to offer, there is material there for everyone from body builders to fitness activists to someone who has never worked out before.<br />
<br />
I'm following the <a href="http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/jamie-easons-livefit-phase-1.html" target="_blank">Live-Fit</a> program designed by trainer Jamie Eason. It includes a diet portion but I've decided to just use the workouts and tips. I've spent a good bit of time learning about eating right so I think I can handle that part of it on my own with a little more flexablity than her menu offers.<br />
<br />
The Tricep & Chest workout yesterday was great. When I left the gym I definitely felt it in my arms but the entire thing was very doable. Tough but doable.<br />
<br />
I also made a healthy version of taco salad last night that turned out really good. I used ground turkey, much less taco seasoning than normal, left the sour cream out of my guacamole, skipped the cheese, crumbled a couple tortilla chips instead of a tortilla bowl and significantly cut down on my dressing, as well as using a lite red pepper dressing rather than regular ranch. Yumo!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/525661_4462429958713_441932395_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" class="spotlight" height="320" src="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/525661_4462429958713_441932395_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Tonight will be the Bicep & Back workout...I will admit it's been a slow day at work which is making me want to just go home and lounge, but I won't. I won't. I won't! This time is for real and I know I can do it :) Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07861398917692830163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470384262132933042.post-21842372573640883822013-01-31T08:57:00.001-05:002013-01-31T08:57:07.181-05:00Commitment IssuesAnd so the cycle continues....<br />
<br />
"I'm going to make a change starting now" "This time it's for real" "No more excuses" "I'm more motivated than I've ever been" "Starting fresh this time" Blah blah blah!!<br />
<br />
& this time I will say enough is enough. But is it?<br />
<br />
I've wanted to be healthy. I've tried to eat well and exercise and get into better shape and boy have I started this goal over and over and over since last May. Not once though have I been able to follow through for more than a couple weeks. Why? Oh let's see what lame excuses I've used..."Just one day of scrapping the plan will be okay" "I will do an extra hard workout tomorrow instead of going to the gym tonight because I'm tired" "I missed working out Monday and Tuesday so I'll wait until next week and start fresh" "I don't want this food to go to waste so I will eat it even though I should be eating better" and the list goes on.<br />
<br />
When will it stop? When will I really hold myself accountable and stick to the plan I made for me?! It's not like someone else is telling me to eat better and workout, I'm tell me. I'm also allowing myself to slip out of that plan and make excuses. When will I want it bad enough that I won't give up just after I start?<br />
<br />
<a href="http://nutritionella.com/2013/01/healthy-self-challenge/" target="_blank">The Healthy sELF Challenge</a> will be my next (and hopefully last) attempt to get started on the right foot and get myself into living a more healthy lifestyle for good. The support and motivation of the other individuals taking the challenge will serve as a continual reminder for me and I hope that through this challenge I will be able to meet and connect with others who have been where I am and can continue to be a resource and support even after the challenge is over. Can't wait to get started!<br />
<br />
Cross your fingers for me k? & if you read this come back and make sure I'm sharing the changes I'm making...if you don't see any updates then comment, tweet, email whatever you have to do to yell at me because I'll deserve a kick in the butt if I don't stay committed this time!<br />
<br />
Want to join the Healthy sELF Challenge with me?<br />
<a href="http://nutritionella.com/healthysELF/" target="_blank">Click here</a> to get all the details and sign up!<br />
<br /><ul><div align="center" style="padding: 5px;">
<span class="pibfi_pinterest">
<img alt="nutritionella" src="http://nutritionella.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/healthysELF3draft2.jpg" title="nutritionella" />
<span class="xc_pin" style="display: block; left: 220px;">
</span>
</span></div>
</ul>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07861398917692830163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470384262132933042.post-22333406913856295472013-01-02T13:07:00.000-05:002013-01-02T13:07:21.648-05:00Starting 2013 Clean & HealthyI came across the Start Clean 2013 <a href="http://www.katieheddleston.com/start-clean/" target="_blank">Challenge</a> organized by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/HealthyHeddleston?ref=ts&fref=ts" target="_blank">Katie Heddleston</a> a couple weeks ago and couldn't wait to give it a try. So here I am, on the second day of 2013...where did 2012 go?! ...and I'm ready to not only start this year on a healthy foot but to continue improving my health & fitness throughout the entire year.<br />
<br />
The past 6-8 months of been trying to be healthier and always seems to let myself slip up then slack for a week or two before giving it another go. The start clean 2013 challenge gives me a small yet beneficial challenge for every day in January. After reading through the schedule I thought to myself "If I can't stick to this I'm hopeless" and let's just make it known that never in my life do I intend to be hopeless.<br />
<br />
Yesterday was goal setting day & I set goals that I knew were attainable and small for this month so I can build up to my larger overall goals as the year progresses. Today my challenge is to eat a salad for one of my meals. Can't wait for dinner! I'm going to make a delicious grilled chicken salad :)<br />
<br />
My Goals for January:<br />
1. Stay Healthy!<br />
2. Better portion control<br />
3. Try one new recipe every week<br />
4. Hold myself accountable<br />
5. Minimum of 3 workouts per week<br />
6. Weigh myself weekly<br />
7. Track my progress<br />
8. Drink 64oz or more of water everyday<br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><br /></b>
<b>Have you ever participated in a health challenge before? What did you think of it?</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Why don't you join in on the Start Clean 2013 Challenge?!</b> <br />
Read all about the challenge <a href="http://www.katieheddleston.com/start-clean/" target="_blank">here</a> or click the button in my sidebar :) <b><br /></b><br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07861398917692830163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470384262132933042.post-33599558249095427292012-12-14T09:29:00.002-05:002012-12-14T09:29:24.662-05:00Slacking Elf.It is beyond time to admit that my fitness efforts have slacked recently. My gym attendance has decreased and my tiredness has increased. Correlation? I think so.<br />
<br />
Lately on twitter I've been seeing posts from a high school classmate talking about this "<a href="http://www.theleangreenbean.com/elf-for-health/" target="_blank">Elf 4 Health</a>" challenge. Today I finally got around to looking it up and seeing what is was all about. Come to find out, it looks awesome and I wish I had researched it a long time ago!!<br />
<br />
Not only does it connect you with other people reaching for the same healthy goals but, it also encourages you to do good for your community through donations and charitable acts! Can we say right up my alley?<br />
<br />
The challenge technically started at thanksgiving but you can still sign up! ...hint hint YOU SHOULD!... check it out on <a href="http://www.theleangreenbean.com/elf-for-health/" target="_blank">The Lean Green Bean</a> blog to get all the details.<br />
<br />
Let me know if you sign up! I'll be updating here with all my challenges as I accomplish them :) Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07861398917692830163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470384262132933042.post-44761876812581511862012-11-27T08:53:00.003-05:002012-11-27T08:53:45.038-05:00The Motion of the OceanOne goal I have set for my blog is to share information that I find intriguing and worthwhile. Some of you may share an interest in all the things I share while others find it boring and not worth their time. I'm fine with that.<br />
<br />
The <a href="http://www.good.is/posts/tapping-the-motion-of-the-ocean-could-the-tides-power-our-world" target="_blank">article</a> I'm sharing this morning talks about using the tides to generate power. I came across it and couldn't help but think "Well duh! Why didn't someone think of this sooner?" It's starts a little slow with some history, good information though, and wraps with very valid points of where this idea could go in the future. Definitely something for everyone to keep in mind and share!<br />
<br />
Here is the article: <br />
<h3>
<a href="http://www.good.is/posts/tapping-the-motion-of-the-ocean-could-the-tides-power-our-world" target="_blank"><span style="font-weight: normal;">Tapping the Motion of the Ocean: Could the Tides Power Our World?</span></a></h3>
<h3>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><br /></span></h3>
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><b>What do you think? Is this a worthwhile investment? </b></span><br />
<span style="font-weight: normal;"><b>Would you move to the coast to take advantage of this power source? </b></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07861398917692830163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470384262132933042.post-27766696431418253752012-11-27T08:47:00.001-05:002012-11-27T08:47:46.137-05:00Forever & A Day Later..Hi All!<br />
<br />
I know it's been quite some time since my voice has seeped through this line and I apologize. I had such a strong idea in my head of where I wanted this blog to go, who I wanted to be through this blog and got 'rolling' before I was really ready. Expect more frequent updates on a variety of topics soon!<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07861398917692830163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470384262132933042.post-14707105696351649952012-10-12T16:01:00.002-04:002012-10-12T16:03:00.534-04:00Funny how things change...<b>Challenge of the week 3 update </b>: So I've done well not eating out, but not perfect. I had Panera for lunch yesterday, I would explain why but really what's the point in an excuse? Other than that it's been yummy homemade breakfast lunch and dinner for me all week! I actually made an awesome grilled chicken salad the other night that I am going to make again to perfect the recipe to share with you all. :) I get semi-creative in the kitchen when need be.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW9xUheYHgEvhxzmOU6R2kmm65PUopqHOUhMpGyaj8qu80bNZudHk_nJNKGAovHa6IFowihfL_3hUOf51Vo3EjRCGIWspA_-R1UqrifhyISPMxKMXPwFPAEMyOgby1gEtSF_ZVsWyfwto/s1600/IMG_1061.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiW9xUheYHgEvhxzmOU6R2kmm65PUopqHOUhMpGyaj8qu80bNZudHk_nJNKGAovHa6IFowihfL_3hUOf51Vo3EjRCGIWspA_-R1UqrifhyISPMxKMXPwFPAEMyOgby1gEtSF_ZVsWyfwto/s320/IMG_1061.JPG" width="238" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baked sweet potato and salmon dinner</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
So now that I have been at my first full-time with a college degree job for almost 6 months I've been thinking a lot about how different things are from this time last year. It's still amazing to me how quickly things change. One of the more stunning changes I've had recently is my dedication to working out and running.<br />
<br />
Sure I've always been active with sports my whole life but now that I no longer belong to teams I have to actually block out time for the gym and plan workouts...very different than showing up, listening to you coach and in most cases not even thinking of practice/games as a workout. Besides that I didn't really like the whole go to the gym, make my own workouts etc and especially hated going for a run. I hated running because I would get bored so easily when I tried to do it.<br />
<br />
That being said...Yesterday <b>I signed myself up for my first official 5k!</b> Quite the turn of events for the girl who hated running! I have to say I'm a little nervous, kind of excited and quite scared. Regardless, it can't hurt to try it once and see how it goes. Hopefully I'll be ready and will hit a time I'm proud of...but we shall see I guess.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtaTljyR-zPU76eGN86_poum0y3DBfEaQdxRvHDPw5ulMs2dIbidw2PeAea-yFwL9ZfPvhkokj26pTbqMZTDvNgDnWDgehkHAoNT6CX7f_J_PU076NmzjYKpPnGQgC_Pk_r5BjN2MgXPA/s1600/Picture+18.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtaTljyR-zPU76eGN86_poum0y3DBfEaQdxRvHDPw5ulMs2dIbidw2PeAea-yFwL9ZfPvhkokj26pTbqMZTDvNgDnWDgehkHAoNT6CX7f_J_PU076NmzjYKpPnGQgC_Pk_r5BjN2MgXPA/s1600/Picture+18.png" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>I have until October 27th to be ready!</i></div>
<br />
The race I entered was the <a href="http://towson5k.com/" target="_blank">T3 Run</a> in Towson, MD. After finishing a 2.8 mile run yesterday in just over 28 minutes I figure I can shoot for 35 min or under for this race. I just need to make sure I keep running and fully prepare myself.<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b>Anyone run 5k's regularly?</b></h3>
<h3>
<b>How do you prepare?</b></h3>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07861398917692830163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470384262132933042.post-43404989731152674602012-10-08T15:12:00.005-04:002012-10-08T15:16:05.320-04:00Finding Motivation...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<b>Challenge of the week #3 : Do not eat out at all Mon-Fri.</b><br />
This weeks challenge is inspired by not only my wanting to save a little cash but also the fact that I will be traveling every weekend this month and eating out. While eating out is convenient and a good social go to, it puts a dent in the wallet and often in your diet. Many places are preparing more healthy menus, or as they often call them 'Skinny Menus'. These can be great in some places, but often its only a smaller portion of another meal with the same preservatives, high sodium sauces and less of the white pasta. While swapping fries for a side salad can make a difference the preservative, sodium and who knows what else is still sitting on your plate. By cooking at home you allow yourself to not only control the portion but also use fresh ingredients and recipes that are better for you.<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Healthified Impossibly Easy Chicken 'n Broccoli Pie..yum!" class="PinImageImg" height="239" src="http://media-cache-lt0.pinterest.com/upload/54817320434593517_wQGyLLHA_c.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.livebetteramerica.com/recipes/healthified-impossibly-easy-chicken-n-broccoli-pie/5d3b1ffa-30ed-43b6-97f7-647ee41a9645" target="_blank">EatBetterAmerica</a> is a great resource for delicious, healthy recipes.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<b>October Weekends...</b><br />
<br />
...mine are packed full this year! I just returned from a nice little two day get away in Williamsburg, VA for the weekend with my love. It was much needed time away for the both of us and a great chance to spend some alone time together. :) I'll share some of the photos from the weekend later on this week, including some of our more than sweet free condo!!<br />
<br />
Next weekend it's off to Delaware for a wedding before a work trip to Palm Springs the following weekend.<br />
<br />
..Dang I'm a busy girl!<br />
<br />
In the midst of all this traveling I need to find time to do a little research on <b>prepping for a 5K</b>. I've decided to run my first one some time in November, possibly a thanksgiving day turkey trot?<br />
<br />
After being away this weekend the motivation to get up and hit the gym this morning wasn't quite there but I did pack my bag and will be going after work. Running a 5K next month is definitely a motivator for the long term but the day-to-day motivation is a little lacking...especially when the cold weather has hit out of no where all of the sudden! I'm going to try a kickboxing class at my gym this week and hopefully keep that as a weekly routine.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://media-cache-ec6.pinterest.com/upload/242701867388838972_PDSrowTb_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="yup." border="0" class="PinImageImg" height="320" src="http://media-cache-ec6.pinterest.com/upload/242701867388838972_PDSrowTb_c.jpg" width="222" /></a></div>
I think I need to find something fairly routine to keep me going. It seems I waiver between super motivated week to less motivated week. One week I'm kind of lazy so the the next I'm extra motivated, then back to kind of lazy where I feel guilty and it's back to super motivated and so on... <br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<img class="fit_to_screen" height="83" id="image" src="http://24.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_m54lvmuF7r1rxbyxto1_1280.png" width="400" /></div>
<h3>
<b>How do you stay motivated to workout?</b></h3>
<h3>
<b>Do fitness classes/group workouts help you get moving on the more lazy days?</b></h3>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07861398917692830163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470384262132933042.post-8034272256546867982012-10-04T09:46:00.002-04:002012-10-04T09:46:46.569-04:00Cooking, Freezing, Eating.So let me just start of by saying that food, closely behind sleep, is one of my favorite things. I love cooking/baking and am finally starting to have more time to try new recipes. Like many fellow internet junkies I have found numerous recipes on <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a>. Today I was perusing and found an awesome pin that lead me to a blog entry focused on freezer meals!<br />
<br />
Natalie, author of A Turtle's Life for Me blog, posted <a href="http://www.aturtleslifeforme.com/2011/06/freezer-meals-on-cheap.html" target="_blank">Freezer Meals on the Cheap</a> and as I read I was instantly excited to try out her idea! She explains in this entry how to prepare freezer meals, and we are not talking enough for 1 day or 1 weeks worth of meals, 46 different meals! Crazy impressive right?<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="350" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNfCa5kwDOffE1V7cfsOoqWMnr4pIS8mBO9J7q_1fKzDEd97Gx7S1NHdog6LxQ0aJrnaUrEzVgEV6szYnHt__0DxB-OOZsCvGMlpos7DLQ7FqutvB08skxkfvQzOQmhitpJwQI8FgaWpY3/s640/IMG_4658.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo from A Turtle's Life for Me Blog post titles Freezer Meals on the Cheap</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Not only does she prepare all these meals at once, but she does it without spending a fortune and in only 4 hours. Think of all the '30 minute quick dinners' you've made. 46 of those would take you about 23 hours total! Imagine cutting that to 4 hours of prep and about 10 minutes to heat each time you need a meal. While I love cooking, it is the time of year when I would rather start baking. Following Natalie's idea would give me way more time for baking and still leave me with healthy delicious meals! Check out her blog everyone, hopefully you find it just as exciting as I have :]<br />
<br />
<b>Speaking of baking...</b><br />
<br />
This year for the holidays I've decided to go for a 'handmade' gift theme. For those in my family who are a little harder to buy for I'm opting for homemade beef jerky, apple butter, apple sauce, pumpkin rolls and festive cookies. Those recipes, or maybe I should call them experiments, will be coming soon! (Always have to test run foodie gifts ahead of time!).<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Pumpkin roll" class="PinImageImg" height="240" src="http://media-cache-ec3.pinterest.com/upload/78601955965978620_wJ9Vvqop_c.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Can't wait to try and make this pumpkin roll!" width="320" /> <img alt="apple butter" class="PinImageImg" height="320" src="http://media-cache-lt0.pinterest.com/upload/5629568255166417_6FPqUjuO_c.jpg" title="" width="212" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A Pumpkin roll & apple butter are first on my list of recipes to try!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div style="text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<b>And while we are on the topic of food...</b><br />
<br />
I'll be heading to Williamsburg tomorrow with my love for a weekend getaway. I'm very excited to go to the winery and try out some restaurants down there. The winery has a tour package that includes a lunch so that may be on the to-do list!<br />
<br />
<b>Any one ever been to Williamsburg and found a great restaurant?</b><br />
<b>Do you prepare freezer meals to save time? Whats your favorite meal to prepare this way? </b><br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07861398917692830163noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470384262132933042.post-74158827486705013112012-09-29T15:25:00.002-04:002012-09-29T15:25:31.371-04:00Let's Talk FallChallenge of the week 2 update: Green tea had always been a love of mine...but so has coffee! I am almost out of k-cups but am thinking I might switch to tea when they are gone until I run out of the massive amount of tea bags I've got left. :]<br />
<br />
So it's been officially fall for a whole week now!! This is my by far favorite season. I mean come on how can you not love fall? Sweaters, beautiful trees, amazing scents, boots and moccasins..I could go on for days.<br />
<br />
I've been in my first apartment for a few months now & was excited to finally be able to ad some fall decor. I ventured to Ross & TJ Maxx for some supplies. I know that doesn't sound like the typical decor supply store but trust me there are some great finds! I like to check out these stores before hitting Micheal's some times. I was able to make this lovely table decor piece for right around $10!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcxPTqzJvAYF5wmzXwrG7BaTN4aCh3Lq6R5p-dpRfNbp66rcAfXg5ijbpi0pciCe5_qk77PnVlrCbJ6BiQvO7ezTN0NYus0qXKI_0rHLyc-pEk5GhQnII1srL0dcSmyUdndPWLkwsYPgg/s1600/IMG_1364.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcxPTqzJvAYF5wmzXwrG7BaTN4aCh3Lq6R5p-dpRfNbp66rcAfXg5ijbpi0pciCe5_qk77PnVlrCbJ6BiQvO7ezTN0NYus0qXKI_0rHLyc-pEk5GhQnII1srL0dcSmyUdndPWLkwsYPgg/s320/IMG_1364.JPG" width="238" /> </a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I'm still looking for some fall place-mats but it adds a nice touch of fall. This is a very simple decor idea anyone (yes, even the less crafty of you!) could create.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
1. Buy a vase, some sort of fun focus piece (bird), a bag of fall items and a candle.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
2. Add an array of the items to the vase until it is full.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
3. I then took the rafia from the fall items bag and a ribbon I had stashed away and wrapped them around the vase.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
4. Set the items on the table in an arrangement that faces the direction where most people will first see the table</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
and you're done! Easy 5 minutes, no stress! :]</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Another reason I love fall beside the decor and scents I now have on my table is the weather! It's been so gorgeous out lately. I've continued to go to the NCR trail and run. I gave two miles a try the other day and shockingly finished with a time of 20:23! Exciting considering I haven't run that distance without stopping in more than 3 years.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>What is your favorite part of fall?</b></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-size: small;"><b>Do you decorate for the fall in your home?</b></span></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07861398917692830163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470384262132933042.post-45091593433806272532012-09-26T11:39:00.001-04:002012-09-26T11:39:06.232-04:00Run, Run, Run!FYI : The last post was intended to post the 25th at night so when I say yesterday in this post I do mean yesterday. :)<br />
<br />
Challenge of the Week #2 Update: Going well, I wasn't expecting this weeks challenge to be too difficult seeing as I've always loved green tea. The challenge is not walking straight to my Kuerig when I wake up in the morning! Which I will admit I did this morning...but instead of another cup of coffee when I got to the office I swapped in my green tea :)<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYhif1HKbALUgJKbpqcUJ6a3WawbxjtD4qTdsbpSYpDTt4tj6bMqdc6rMQU1ggFsjuZbIqe3_CxJ9J1SxXgeR3iH069H-KNBqbNiYzzJZA21RTDI9r_LqdpcxoPRYs5N9H7CFFpbOmIYA/s1600/photo(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYhif1HKbALUgJKbpqcUJ6a3WawbxjtD4qTdsbpSYpDTt4tj6bMqdc6rMQU1ggFsjuZbIqe3_CxJ9J1SxXgeR3iH069H-KNBqbNiYzzJZA21RTDI9r_LqdpcxoPRYs5N9H7CFFpbOmIYA/s320/photo(1).JPG" width="297" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Not the most appealing photo, but I'm sure fellow tea drinkers can appreciate this view!</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
Last night I challenged myself to not only beat my mile time but also increase my mileage to 2 miles without stopping. So I headed out to the <a href="http://www.dnr.state.md.us/greenways/ncrt_trail.html" target="_blank">NCR Trail</a> (which by the way is beautiful and a great place to run/bike/walk) after work, laced up my running shoes and got to it!<br />
<br />
My first mile was much less painful that it has been my past few runs. Unfortunately my first mile time was slightly slower than normal. It was only a 3 second difference but it was a little disappointing seeing as it felt much easier, I was expecting 5 seconds faster in my head. Any how, I didn't let it discourage me during the run and instead used the disappointment as motivation to complete the second mile.<br />
<br />
True story: I always imagine people giving themselves pep talks in their head. You know the ones coaches give in movies or those motivational picture quotes show online? Well I'll admit...I totally did this yesterday! I was coming up the last stretch of my second mile, feeling dead, legs burning and in my head I thought<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
"You're not stopping. It's not much farther. The only thing</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
that can make me stop right now is myself. ...am I really</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
giving myself one of these pep talks? ...all that is standing</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
between me and finishing this mile is myself. ...hey this</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
is kinda working. Okay pick up my feet and get there already!"</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
And in the end I ran 2.02 miles in 20:23 :] Not mad about my time one bit! Not only was this the first time I'd ran more than a mile at once in a few years, but I hit my goal and it felt great!<br />
<br />
The rest of my night my excitement and pride followed me around while I made dinner and then went shopping for some fun 21st birthday gifts for a friend.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUoohdrVzQ2rhr4I3O78bWDOskK_-e1uXK7Yhl_u3It9tjOSwH3-LFRVGvcRV7sntPbnQRZ8C3L_6lKov7s89UmT40FIsL53mLNak30vtGb0k6nwbIVWdnHjLQo48AIxMtSfHCmZQYFj0/s1600/photo(2).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUoohdrVzQ2rhr4I3O78bWDOskK_-e1uXK7Yhl_u3It9tjOSwH3-LFRVGvcRV7sntPbnQRZ8C3L_6lKov7s89UmT40FIsL53mLNak30vtGb0k6nwbIVWdnHjLQo48AIxMtSfHCmZQYFj0/s320/photo(2).JPG" width="239" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dinner included: Whole grain pasta, grilled chicken and roasted butternut squash topped with a light shredding of cheese</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Not going to lie, I'm excited for the leftover squash for lunch today!<br />
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b>How far do you normally run on a cardio day?</b></h3>
<h3>
<b>Do you prefer to run outside or inside on a treadmill/elliptical?</b></h3>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07861398917692830163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470384262132933042.post-51189473911915594452012-09-25T11:19:00.001-04:002012-09-25T11:19:08.280-04:00Becoming a gym-rat?Got myself out of bed at 5:20 this morning to hit the gym. I have to admit...waking up wasn't as easy as I wished but I made it! I have started to like going to the gym early before work because not only does it leave my entire evening free, but the people who are there in the morning are often what you might call 'gym-rats'. Most are in good shape and you can tell they push themselves constantly during their workout. It motivates me and makes me feel like I need to do the same so that I don't stand out as 'the lazy girl who should have stayed in bed'.<br />
<br />
I have an app on my phone called <a href="http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/nike-training-club/id301521403?mt=8" target="_blank">Nike Training Club</a> and it's awesome. There is a variety of workouts to choose from and they all make the most of the time they take to do. I also love that I can play my music but still audio get instructions from the app on what exercise to do and how much time is left. This morning was the first time I did the Flex Machine workout, it took about 30 minutes and I had jello legs when I finished! (Love that feeling! :) ).<br />
<br />
Going to the gym early also give you the chance to see some beautiful morning skies/sunrises...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj1qyHymlksaPRXTt3Jfy_Z6QtP2G9Pvs4PQbMrbtX0Ym6XX75tkg2fd9DQ-APyruOFuyVIft3QAPszTDIN5wq_p39S5xlhrVEp8ptV08CnjLDsHdS3LHAfbrNn3Qu8mKwzOck7wpz_o4/s1600/408428_3840935661744_819899529_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhj1qyHymlksaPRXTt3Jfy_Z6QtP2G9Pvs4PQbMrbtX0Ym6XX75tkg2fd9DQ-APyruOFuyVIft3QAPszTDIN5wq_p39S5xlhrVEp8ptV08CnjLDsHdS3LHAfbrNn3Qu8mKwzOck7wpz_o4/s320/408428_3840935661744_819899529_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
'Challenge of the Week' 2 update: Had a cup of green tea when I got to the office this morning. Haven't had any coffee at all and I'm not feeling a crash coming on yet!<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtnoIxMqw9bOqfRMGtEP1LYKFaxEofiVMdwE1ozXABcrbTESU7HlBPrV82veG6ctjbAXD1qYGSmg_9uGHd0yKwST25BXdbJG2OIB4Qy9H1IHKqnyWWNWRvvlWk_N0QA_EvAdrCa5aE__8/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtnoIxMqw9bOqfRMGtEP1LYKFaxEofiVMdwE1ozXABcrbTESU7HlBPrV82veG6ctjbAXD1qYGSmg_9uGHd0yKwST25BXdbJG2OIB4Qy9H1IHKqnyWWNWRvvlWk_N0QA_EvAdrCa5aE__8/s320/photo.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<h3>
<b><br /></b></h3>
<h3>
<b>What is your favorite time of day to workout?</b></h3>
<h3>
<b>Do you prefer coffee or tea?</b></h3>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07861398917692830163noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-470384262132933042.post-51196424925968980572012-09-23T20:54:00.001-04:002012-09-23T20:54:03.943-04:00Challenge of the Week #2I've got a wonderful job doing exactly what I love. I have time in my life to enjoy life, relax and drink some wine. I've found my best friend in a man who is more than perfect for me. I've reached all the goals I've worked toward so far in life. What do I do with myself now?<br />
<br />
That was the question that nagged me the first months after graduating from college...and I'm proud to say: "I've got the answer!"<br />
<br />
Now is the time to dig deeper, explore and define myself. College was an opportunity to really learn about and find myself, now I get to mold and shape myself into an even better person than I originally imagined.<br />
<br />
I've started challenging myself every week to do one thing that I've been thinking about or attempting to do but never actually doing/completing.<br />
<br />
Last week my 'Challenge of the Week' was to exercise everyday from Sunday-Friday. I started off with a run on Sunday, hit the gym on Monday and Tuesday, Ab workout on my bedroom floor Wednesday, back to the gym on Thursday, and an easy stretch & walk on Friday. Surprisingly it was easier than ever to motivate myself as the week went on. I even went for a run today before grocery shopping without having to convince myself!<br />
<br />
This week I plan to keep up the workout regime, and begin my second 'Challenge of the Week' - Swap one cup of coffee a day for green tea. Oh and of course I plan to celebrate my 22nd birthday to the fullest! :] <br />
Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0