tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-80646293121820086542024-03-05T09:59:47.334-08:00Serenity on the Open RoadSerenity On The Open Roadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04056864322118320877noreply@blogger.comBlogger70125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8064629312182008654.post-39956056803902460662016-03-01T07:31:00.001-08:002016-03-01T07:31:56.288-08:00Hemp Heart Bars<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This past month, I got to review <a href="http://manitobaharvest.com/category/23/Hemp+Heart+Bar.html">Manitoba Harvest Hemp Heart Bars</a>. Hemp Heart bars are a great source of protein and Omega 3 & 6! Each bar contains 10 grams of plant-based protein and 10 grams of Omegas. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">received two bars, one in the chocolate flavor and one in the</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> apple cinnamon. There is also a vanilla flavor available which i have yet to try. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I paired my Chocolate Hemp Hear Bar with my morning coffee. It was a great way to start my day with proper nutrition and a pick me up! If you've never tried <a href="http://manitobaharvest.com/category/13/Hemp+Hearts.html">Hemp Hearts</a>, you'll find the texture to be a bit different, and for some a bit off putting. Since i had the opportunity last year to <a href="http://swimnrun4life.blogspot.com/2015/11/hemp-hearts-review.html">review hemp hearts</a>, I had an idea of what to expect. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">As you can see in the picture, Hemp Heart Bars are very textured and filled with hemp hearts! I found the 45g bar to be the perfect serving size. The chocolate flavor was great and I really enjoyed having this as my breakfast. Hemp Heart Bars are great for on the go, be it for a grab and go breakfast or a quick pick me up before a work out. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The apple cinnamon bar was not to my liking. I am not a fan of that flavor combination so i wasn't able to eat the whole bar. However, if you are a fan of that flavor combination, give it a try! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Right now, Manitoba Harvest is having a Hemp Heart Bar giveaway, so if you want to try these amazing bars for free, enter their photo contest!! You have until March 31 to enter and can get <a href="http://manitobaharvest.com/fuelledbyhemp">details here</a> :) Or if you really want to try them now, you can use code <b style="color: red;">hhbarlaunch1015 </b>to recieve 15% off your order! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I highly recommend the chocolate! Happy hearts eat hemp heart bars! </span></div>
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<br />Serenity On The Open Roadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04056864322118320877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8064629312182008654.post-46127738605256262562016-01-08T06:05:00.004-08:002016-01-08T06:15:39.574-08:00The Should Talk<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm sitting here at home, on my couch, giving myself the "<b>should</b>" talk. This morning i missed my bus to get to the other side of town to take 2 yoga classes. I <b>should've</b> gotten up 5 minutes earlier, because i <b>should</b> work out today. I <b>shouldn't </b>be so lazy. I <b>should </b>do a home practice now, or i <b>should </b>take the later bus and <b>should</b> take the later classes.<b> </b>How often do we do this to ourselves? What i did this morning was put myself down. Telling myself all the things i <b>should </b>do- things that if i do, i will be able to tell myself I'm better for. I put myself down every time I tell myself I <b>should've </b>done something. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Recently, I've decided to take a bit of a social media break. I post things here and there, but I'm not going to be as active as i have been. I kept telling myself I <b>should </b>participate in Instagram challenges- they would make me feel better. Wrong. They stressed me out. I didn't always have time to do an Instagram Yoga pose of the day. And then the <b>should </b>talks would start all over again. I would put myself down for poor time management. I would get upset if i didn't have a TON of likes on my pictures and then i would start the <b>comparison </b>game. So and so has 500 likes, has 100000+ followers, is prettier, is more fit, is more liked. Whats wrong with me? Why don't people like my pictures? Why isn't everyone following me?. Oh cry me a river. I set myself up to put myself down. I didn't start my social media accounts to gain followers, that's not my goal. There are some people who use social media to network with companies, to grow their business' and to gain sponsorships, but guess what- I'm not one of those people. So WHY am i beating myself up about such petty things. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I started my twitter account years ago as a way to vent without judgement. I was going through the worst of my eating disorder and needed a place to find a community that understood and that i could vent to. I no longer use the account that served that purpose, and honestly, twitter is hardly something i use these days. I started Instagram when it first came out because i thought it was cool. I hardly used hashtags, and I just liked being able to add filters to my pictures. Since then, I overuse hashtags, i try too hard to get likes on my pictures, i stress myself out with trying to do 8 Instagram challenges at once- again to gain likes, and none of it is worth it or necessary- for me. Facebook is Facebook. I mainly use it to see funny videos and stay in contact with my family. I hardly post to it and I will continue to keep my posting to a minimum. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When i first started a blog, i was a sophomore in college. I blogged as a way to journal without having my hand cramp up. My original blog is long gone- my Dad was scared that random people could search my name and read my blog. Now, the majority of people who read this blog are random strangers. Its crazy how things change. But as things have changed, i have lost myself in social media. I have taken away from spending time with myself. Take social media away, with no one to like what i do, and what do i want to do for myself? Social media became a way for me to seek validation. To know that what i was doing was okay, because, someone liked it. How screwed up is that. Now I'm taking the time to figure out myself, to find what it is i really enjoy, to find my path and to stop giving myself the <b>should </b>talks. There are lots of <b>could've would've should'ves</b> in life, but the more we dwell on those, the more we start to have negative conversations with ourselves and begin to put ourselves down. Instead, lets talk ourselves up. I don't need someone to like a picture or a status to know that I'm amazing. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Today, i challenge you to stop giving yourself the <b>should</b> talk, and start building yourself up. </span></div>
Serenity On The Open Roadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04056864322118320877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8064629312182008654.post-67592258917578975372015-12-26T12:50:00.001-08:002015-12-26T13:12:15.197-08:00Make your holidays #FitHolidays<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 14px;">During the holiday season, one of the most common things i hear people complain about is the extra holiday weight they gain. At the holiday times there are so many delicious foods and desserts being made its sometimes hard to say no, or to know when to stop eating. Portion control isn't always as easy as it sounds when you have a love affair with mashed potatoes and sweet potatoe pie. Lucky for me, this holiday season I had a secret weapon to help me stop stuffing my face with deliscous stuffing! What is my secret? <b><a href="https://www.mealenders.com/">MealEnders Signaling losenges</a></b>. </span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 14px;">MealEnders Losenges are similar to a hard candy with a soft outer shell. What makes these different then just a simple hard candy? Well, MealEnders have a Duo-Sensory Taste SystemTM </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="line-height: 14px;">which rewards your taste buds with the flavor but also rests them. Once you get to the hard candy part of the MealEnder, you begin to feel your tounge tingle. Its as though all your taste buds are being activiated. </span></span></span><span style="background-color: white; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 14px;">MealEnders described this in the following way:</span><br />
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DUO-SENSORY TASTE SYSTEM™</h3>
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<a href="https://www.mealenders.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/pic6.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" src="https://www.mealenders.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/07/pic6.png" style="border: none; height: auto; margin-top: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px; vertical-align: middle;" /></a>MealEnders’ active-taste formula rewards and resets your taste buds, distracting you from the temptation to overindulge. First the delicious Reward Layer treats you to the sweet taste of dessert – a signal we typically associate with the end of a meal. Then the Inner Core’s Active-Taste Layer releases a proprietary blend of gentle, cool tingling sensations on the tongue, which engage the <a class="fancybox" href="https://www.mealenders.com/how-it-works/#test" style="color: #33ccc7; font-weight: 600; line-height: 21px; margin: 0px; padding: 0px; text-decoration: none;">trigeminal nerve</a>, distracting your mind from the urge to continue overeating. You can feel your MealEnder go to work instantly.</div>
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(taken from MealEnders webpage : <a href="https://www.mealenders.com/">https://www.mealenders.com/</a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; text-align: justify;">To learn more about the science behind MealEnders, visit their webpage and read </span><b style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: small; text-align: justify;"><a href="https://www.mealenders.com/how-it-works/">how it works</a>.</b><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">One thing I really enjoyed about MealEnders is that they come 4 flavors- Chocolate, Cinnamon, Mocha and Citrus. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Chocolate is my ablsolute favorite. My fiance loves the chocolate ones too, he ate all of them! (not at once though). Luckily, i had a stash of chocolate ones unopened still. When i recieved my package of MealEnders Losenges, I also recieved a package of sample packs! I took those to work and shared them with my co-workers who are always trying to find a way to lose weight or cut down calories. They loved the losenges! One of the girls was a little scared when her tounge started to tingle, but i assured her that is the way they work and she was fine :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I love the way that the losenges activate my tastebuds. I could be tempting myself to have seconds, but as soon as i pop a MealEnder in my mouth, im able to say no to seconds. Not only do i get that sweet tooth craving, but i also am left with a mouth sensation that tells me i dont need to have extra servings. Its really quite a cool thing! </span></div>
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MealEnders make the perfect Holiday stocking stuffers. I even used mine as party favors!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoIdtadB5I_9oQssZpDgq4zPpqRy_3zXpCQpb42vxQpJB8_zMDCfd6Jck1QL2oGYso6_YJdIqaNMu4yZ-DrU3WbnXVkGyPO9oIn99zRnSdoFyDcPYavQRuVPyNY6G_36emPfTgZODQG-kt/s640/blogger-image--997430645.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoIdtadB5I_9oQssZpDgq4zPpqRy_3zXpCQpb42vxQpJB8_zMDCfd6Jck1QL2oGYso6_YJdIqaNMu4yZ-DrU3WbnXVkGyPO9oIn99zRnSdoFyDcPYavQRuVPyNY6G_36emPfTgZODQG-kt/s400/blogger-image--997430645.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I highly recommend MealEnders to anyone and everyone! They even make great stocking stuffers and party favors! <a href="https://mealenders.com/shop/shop.html">You can check them out here!</a> If you are struggling with saying no to that second helping of pie or have trouble with controling cravings, MealEnders is perfect for you! My goal through out the holidays is always to have #FitHolidays. To say no to seconds, to keep working out, to not eat too many cookies! You too can have a #FitHoliday season and MealEnders can help you. Why wait until the New Year, sure its just around the corner, but there is no time like the present! Dont wait for tomorrow to change what you can do today! So, heres to my secret weapon not being so secret anymore :)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><br /></span>Serenity On The Open Roadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04056864322118320877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8064629312182008654.post-52933870177827037872015-12-11T10:45:00.002-08:002015-12-11T10:45:22.439-08:00Nektar Naturals #BeeSweet! <div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Recently, i had the opportunity to try out<a href="http://nektarnaturals.com/"> Nektar Naturals</a> Nektar Honey Crystals. The honey crystals reminded me of instant coffee, but instead, instant honey! Nektar Honey Crystals are all-natural granulated honey. You can get the crystals in easy to go packets or an easy pour bottle. Honey on the go with no sticky mess! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">I really enjoy having a cup of tea at night when i want to relax and prepare for bed and I love pairing natural honey with my tea. I often end up with a sticky mess and honey on the counter top. What i love about the Nektar Honey Crystals is that they are all natural, non-GMO and are naturally gluten-free. I just added a teaspoon to my tea and i was good to go. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Nektar Honey Cystals have the same flavor as regular honey. I received the bottle of crystals with a set of measuring spoons which made adding honey to my tea easy. I also added the Nektar Honey Crystals to my plain Greek yogurt. I ended with the same great honey taste and an extra texture to my yogurt. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcTLRelWky-c-Q_owkrS4EIAYQhVWkoUbV42Hl0zrY7KgZuNIoLytcSpcOXFrejRzisLLb7lcii1yeYioAY9czA8aU8lel75Oxe_n2H23ICkqPVAzNBsSMCURbsLbIMGjNW1JU8W9Z3oNA/s1600/IMG_2986.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcTLRelWky-c-Q_owkrS4EIAYQhVWkoUbV42Hl0zrY7KgZuNIoLytcSpcOXFrejRzisLLb7lcii1yeYioAY9czA8aU8lel75Oxe_n2H23ICkqPVAzNBsSMCURbsLbIMGjNW1JU8W9Z3oNA/s320/IMG_2986.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The Nektar Honey Crystals are also great for cooking and baking with. I love to bake granny smith apples with cinnamon in the oven. I saw the idea when i was a kid on a PBS show and have been obsessed since. I added the Honey Crystals to the inside of the apple as they baked and ended with a delicious flavor. For more great baking recipes, check out their </span><a href="https://nektarnaturals.com/recipes.php" style="color: black; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: medium; line-height: normal;">webpage</a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">. </span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img height="320" src="http://foodsciencesecrets.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/Baked-apples-1.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="224" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">image from google images</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: justify;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Another beneficial thing about the crystals that i love, is that they contain natural electrolytes. </span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">Being a very active athlete, this is a great benefit for me. When I add them to my </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-align: justify;">tea is not only adding great flavor, but benefiting</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; text-align: justify;"> me! You can also add the crystals to a bottle of water for added flavor and added electrolytes. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I really enjoy how easy the crystals are to use and look forward to creating more with them. If you love honey but hate the mess, i highly recommend the Nektar Naturals Honey Crystals to you! </span></div>
Serenity On The Open Roadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04056864322118320877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8064629312182008654.post-17051525301242467062015-12-10T08:56:00.000-08:002015-12-10T08:56:34.690-08:00Santa Hustle 5K<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This past Saturday, My fiance and I ran in the <a href="http://www.santahustle.com/">Santa Hustle 5K</a>. For the race being on the lake front and on a December day, we had great weather. The sun was shining and the temperature reached a high of 47 degrees- i think it only got to a high of 39 while we were running though. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The morning of, we woke up at 6am to start getting ready so we could leave by 6:45. My routine on a race morning is very simple- make coffee and get dressed. I always lay out my clothes for a race the night prior so I'm not scurrying around in a frenzy the morning of trying to find what i need. By 6:45 we were out the door and driving down to the east side. The race was held right off of Lake Michigan at Veteran's Park downtown Milwaukee. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">We arrived around 7:10am for (we had to stop and get me gum on the way- i cant run without a piece of gum). The race didn't start until 830 but we had to pick up our race bibs and packets, and we knew parking could get crazy so wanted to make sure we got a spot. </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After picking up our packets and bibs, we went back to the car so we could stay warm. At 8:15 we did a final bathroom stop and headed to the start line.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">At the start line, we placed ourselves towards the front so we wouldn't have to battle through people while running. Before the race started, UW-Badger alum and Heismann Trophy Winner, Ron Dayne spoke and gave a pep talk. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> Then the count down began and we were off. The start was very congested and i felt like I was tripping over people. Once we spread out more, My fiance and I started to pass people and fall into our rhythm. I think a lot of people placed themselves in the front when they shouldn't have. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The course took us onto Lincoln Memorial drive to North Ave and then turned back to the finish line. I enjoyed the course a lot, as its one that i have trained on consistently in the past. The first mile, we found ourselves passing a lot of people and ran past the "Cookie Stop". I hit<b> mile 1 in 7:31</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">A mile 1 1/2 we passed the Water Stop and we nearing the turn around. My legs felt a little dead, but overall i felt like i was doing pretty good. As we neared mile 2 i could feel that i had slowed a little but I thought i had been holding a decent pace. (i didn't check my watch the entire race so until i finished didn't know what pace i was holding). I hit <b>mile 2 in 7:50</b>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As we turned around and headed back to the finish, i could feel myself dying, but i wasn't giving up. I thought i was on track to run faster then i was running and that kept me motivated. Entering back into Veterans Park, we passed the "Candy Stop". Neither of us took anything from the stops, but they were cute to see. Throughout the course, there were also funny motivational posters. The one near the candy stop was of two snowballs and one saying to the other, the more i run the more weight i put on. It took me a minute to figure it out (im a bit slow with jokes) but then i had a good laugh. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After passing the candy stop, we were about a .5 from the finish and i could feel my legs dying and my pace dramatically slowing. There was a girl in a penguin suit in front of me that I was trying to pass and I told myself to just let her go. I hit </span><b style="font-family: verdana, sans-serif;">mile 3 in 8:19.</b><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">As we headed to the finish line, i had a little bit of juice left in me and began to pick up my speed. We crossed the finish line in <b>24:58 </b>and of course, as always, finished hand in hand. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1WGocYjtzqwVCvzr04s3luVmPXWkqtecVyLHBMY9NAo7Og27B56g_fms7oSqysCKY-4cG2yFp3QOBjEHP9j6UMDP29jrNiXAJmyAKjXlf5t4mJWVCRi1YVKwGdLlFlVbJf2BRCy2fDgg5/s640/blogger-image-2061467093.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1WGocYjtzqwVCvzr04s3luVmPXWkqtecVyLHBMY9NAo7Og27B56g_fms7oSqysCKY-4cG2yFp3QOBjEHP9j6UMDP29jrNiXAJmyAKjXlf5t4mJWVCRi1YVKwGdLlFlVbJf2BRCy2fDgg5/s640/blogger-image-2061467093.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Headed to the Finish</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I was disappointed with the time, but not with my performance. I had really thought i was running so much faster. My legs definitely were frozen from the cold, so i believe that had an affect on me feeling how i was running. Just one week prior, i ran 2 1/2 minutes faster in a 5K. I have noticed the last mile i tend to die and in my training have been trying to work on keep myself consistent in that last mile. One day I want to run a 5K like i had 2 years ago. I know i wont be running a 15 minute 5K again, but i would like to get into the 18min range once more. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Overall, Im very pleased with the way Saturday went. My fiance and I had a lot of fun. We even hung out for a bit afterwards to take some pictures and say hi to the Reindeer. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I feel that i have a long way to go in my training, but the run did feel good and I'm proud of myself. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br />The next race on my agenda is in February- on my 30th birthday. We are traveling to Tampa Florida for a half marathon. So, until then, i will be focusing on my training and gaining speed and logging longer miles with a more consistent pace. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Until next time:</span></div>
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Serenity On The Open Roadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04056864322118320877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8064629312182008654.post-37710048737634886242015-12-02T07:52:00.003-08:002015-12-02T07:52:44.649-08:00DRUMSTICK DASH 5K<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Thursday, My fiance and I ran the Drumstick Dash 5K here in Milwaukee. It was a great way to start our Thanksgiving. We are both very grateful we are able to participate in the races we have done this year. They may not always go as planned, but doing them together is what matters. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The weekend before the Drumstick Dash, I went to a local running store to get fitted for a pair or running shoes. My current ones had over 300 miles on them and *GULP* were Nike Frees. The lack of stability in the Nike Frees explains some of my injuries. To be honest, i didn't even know what i was running in until last week, i just knew i had Nikes and that they had hit the limit. The sales associate who helped me at Performance Running in Brookfield was incredible. He knew all details on every shoe he showed me- more on that in a later post. After trying on and running in different shoes, I found that the Brooks PureCadence 4 was the best fit for me. The size i needed wasn't in stores, so they ordered them in for me. Wednesday, I got a call that my shoes had come in but i had to work. My fiance was amazing and drove out to get them so i could have new shoes to run in at the Drumstick Dash.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The morning of the run, we got up at 6am. I made myself a cup of coffee and took my time to get dressed (okay, i snoozed a bit). We left the house at 6:40 and stopped at his parents real quick so i could drop off my green bean casseroles (yes 2) for our thanksgiving meal later that day. We arrived at Miller Park around 7:10. The race didn't start til 8:30 but we wanted to make sure we got parking and had to pick up our race bibs. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">We picked up our Bibs and race packets inside the stadium. While i was giving the woman helping me my name, i felt someone put their arm around me and a kiss on the cheek from someone with a beard. I was trying to figure out who would do this and was so surprised when i turned around and saw my Dad! He was volunteering and was there helping with the race packets. Was such a great surprise. I made sure to get a picture with my Dad- he was doing Novem-Beard and had grown out a Santa white beard. Last time i saw my dad with facial hair was a mustache when i was 8 years old. (i cried when he shaved that off, i was an emotional child). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">After getting our packets, we headed back to the car to wait until the race start. At 750 we decided to do a quick bathroom run before the lines got crazy. And then we headed over to the start and warmed up a bit. Only to realize that both of us, with out talking to each other, had somehow decided that we thought the race started at 815. We had a good laugh about that when at 8:10 we were trying to figure out why no one else was lining up. After we realized that, we headed back into the stadium to kill some time. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZZLY3bslSXIOSWw7CVWKGvuYcFtBGv87G-jy3oyi4AoDNRZqx6LYC1PUsbX-4g3cXJW_3zOQwUJecRX8900LIJaEN_qLP6mlVN5mkCcU-KUPMtYnqp7xo0wCHPCcaKpQmpsKNAIam27f1/s640/blogger-image-1579787299.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZZLY3bslSXIOSWw7CVWKGvuYcFtBGv87G-jy3oyi4AoDNRZqx6LYC1PUsbX-4g3cXJW_3zOQwUJecRX8900LIJaEN_qLP6mlVN5mkCcU-KUPMtYnqp7xo0wCHPCcaKpQmpsKNAIam27f1/s320/blogger-image-1579787299.jpg" width="240" /></a></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3YNxWZEkjjhYpp7J_gc97_dWgjJM9tpJY5f9vN36hriCOp5oQ8oO2FYMoPqopF6QalDXZBhc6v2QeP-s4YSB8hHp6yQ77R3XQKaMjZcUA8pyhSXSjvlI3bLRD3j0w7JkwJIrnuEXZlgHY/s640/blogger-image-1355918578.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3YNxWZEkjjhYpp7J_gc97_dWgjJM9tpJY5f9vN36hriCOp5oQ8oO2FYMoPqopF6QalDXZBhc6v2QeP-s4YSB8hHp6yQ77R3XQKaMjZcUA8pyhSXSjvlI3bLRD3j0w7JkwJIrnuEXZlgHY/s320/blogger-image-1355918578.jpg" width="238" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyPHP-_DoRNEq6bX3YihaY5f0w6px8ZpToWQli2HmXfwT1nEh4UWO8g_FuACYtYa6LGxBRRxaITrsBV4YKN09wCa-9Rx-q_QAeUQXNZiY30GZMJWpCL0HoyDzJGJSE3BDR7NRVXmAqGEvx/s640/blogger-image-1948074198.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyPHP-_DoRNEq6bX3YihaY5f0w6px8ZpToWQli2HmXfwT1nEh4UWO8g_FuACYtYa6LGxBRRxaITrsBV4YKN09wCa-9Rx-q_QAeUQXNZiY30GZMJWpCL0HoyDzJGJSE3BDR7NRVXmAqGEvx/s320/blogger-image-1948074198.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Eventually, one of the volunteers made an announcement for everyone indoors to head outdoors to start lining up. We maneuvered our way toward the start of the lineup, but positioned ourselves about 6 rows back. No point in starting with the front runners when we weren't racing to win. (Plus the winner finished in 14:57). The announcer started the count down and we were off. I knew that we were going to face an uphill right away so wanted to race smart. Our training has increased the past few weeks, so i knew we could run this race faster then our last <a href="http://swimnrun4life.blogspot.com/2015/10/monster-run-5k.html">5K in October</a>. We fell into stride with each other and took the hill smart. Soon after the hill, we were running down hill and hit mile 1. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Mile 2 was mostly downhill and flat. We had a slight incline right at the end of the mile, but it wasn't anything that we couldn't handle. Mile 2 i started to feel myself holding back. I didn't want to take things out to hard, but i didn't want to go to slow. I know i die on mile 3 and didn't want to push myself too hard. </span><br />
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<img src="http://www.visioneventmanagement.com/media/DD15_Course_Map_2.png" height="400" width="350" /></div>
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Mile 3 we headed back toward the stadium and the finish line. There was another sight downhill, but the rest of the course was flat. As we rounded the stadium, we saw the finish line and began to pick up our pace. Had i reviewed the course map more careful prior to the race, i could have avoided dying, but lesson learned. So, we've picked our pace up to a sprint- we think we are about to finish- wrong! The course throws you a curve bar and we have to run a loop to come back to the finish line (and finish on an incline). I wanted to scream. I think i actually did. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I have always been able to pull out a strong finish at every race, it doesn't matter how dead i feel, when i see that finish line, i can bring it in strong. But now, i had used that energy thinking i was headed to the finish line and still had some distance to go. I was dead. I felt my pace slow and the defeat settle in. My fiance was trying to encourage me to finish strong but i just couldn't wrap my head around it. Had i looked at my watch, I also would've seen where we were at and avoided this situation. As we neared the final 20 yards, I was able to find that strong finish and cross the finish line hand in hand with my fiance. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlFpyYBXJDxjaZWuhToEBcXxebuleSUnckoHA9oZqPhZj3sHZapB_bEwFaiWuMMlxDhj178VFO-imfJUi-f6ikbjJFCLBEzUHbO_4b7Dgq0lfmw8K_RLMPVUpyyOiIh3sPpUxRBqL5EMs3/s640/blogger-image-1752089061.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlFpyYBXJDxjaZWuhToEBcXxebuleSUnckoHA9oZqPhZj3sHZapB_bEwFaiWuMMlxDhj178VFO-imfJUi-f6ikbjJFCLBEzUHbO_4b7Dgq0lfmw8K_RLMPVUpyyOiIh3sPpUxRBqL5EMs3/s320/blogger-image-1752089061.jpg" width="240" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Overall, i was satisfied with the race. We finished stronger and faster then we had a month ago. I didn't feel sweaty or that out of breath at the end though, which tells me i had more to give. This weekend we are racing another 5K which i know is a flatter course so I am excited to see what we can pull of this weekend. </span><br />
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<b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Results:</span></b></div>
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<tr><td class="sub-body" style="font-weight: bold; padding-right: 20px;">bib number:</td><td>1986</td></tr>
<tr><td class="sub-body" style="font-weight: bold; padding-right: 20px;">overall place:</td><td>165 out of 2758</td></tr>
<tr><td class="sub-body" style="font-weight: bold; padding-right: 20px;">division place:</td><td>7 out of 228</td></tr>
<tr><td class="sub-body" style="font-weight: bold; padding-right: 20px;">gender place:</td><td>41 out of 1688</td></tr>
<tr><td class="sub-body" style="font-weight: bold; padding-right: 20px;">time:</td><td>22:44</td></tr>
<tr><td class="sub-body" style="font-weight: bold; padding-right: 20px;">pace:</td><td>7:19</td></tr>
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Serenity On The Open Roadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04056864322118320877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8064629312182008654.post-14670671617861326652015-11-15T07:04:00.002-08:002015-11-15T07:04:54.981-08:00Turkey Trot Prediction Run<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEindORv5ycqVmh9NylPVpqyl6Oz-t2AO7cYNksjsuLUKgIZDuHJPnhGeffTreMgEWN1Zn8azwQqLBJn57B_ngdrw5MNba3SaC0b7aLG7EGeDE821uR3pdrpli67zifTDWkaf9yhce8a-M9_/s640/blogger-image--807402892.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3tQMgHWuTL5_GdAyMvRp0Ul5oJxPbGbpUn-_QlEMyeYisfBbTE5Dqd8cOf4S2XyDYpAXJmr3Tn-dol8KAXk-sZDsRdMAGWy3umKQ0DYAWy1UYeJosfT5R06wUpp8MJu02eJrPn24HGUCg/s640/blogger-image-352883224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3tQMgHWuTL5_GdAyMvRp0Ul5oJxPbGbpUn-_QlEMyeYisfBbTE5Dqd8cOf4S2XyDYpAXJmr3Tn-dol8KAXk-sZDsRdMAGWy3umKQ0DYAWy1UYeJosfT5R06wUpp8MJu02eJrPn24HGUCg/s640/blogger-image-352883224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This past Sunday, My fiance and I participated in a <a href="http://www.badgerlandstriders.org/home/Races/TurkeyTrot.htm">2 mile prediction run</a> hosted by the </span><a href="http://www.badgerlandstriders.org/home.htm" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Badgerland Striders</a><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">. There were a couple of things about this run that had me really excited- </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>1)</b>The route is one that i have trained on and is about 3 miles from my house</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>2)</b>There were no clocks or "winners" it was a run your own pace "race" </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>3)</b>This was a prediction run, not a race </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>4)</b>If I was close to my prediction time, i could win a turkey! </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><b>5)</b> The run was only 2 miles long! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">There was the option to run a 15K, but my training is not strong enough right now to run a "feels good" solid 9 miles. Plus, I like running with music and being able to check my pace on my Garmin, and I wouldn't have been able to use those on this run. (I did find out at the run that music was allowed, but I didn't know that at the time of signing up and that swayed my decision to choose the 2 mile run). Being a prediction run, upon signing up I had to enter a time that iI thought me and my fiance would finish in. I predicted both me and Paul to finish the 2 miles in 15:48. I know our training isn't as strong as it could be so i didn't want to estimate too fast of a time for us, but I also know even on weak training, Paul is a strong runner and 16 would be too slow for him. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The morning of the run, we got up around 7am to start getting ready. I needed coffee and we had run out 2 days prior, so we left the house early to stop at Starbucks so I could get my caffeine fix. When we left the house, the temperature was 34 degrees. Not my ideal weather for a run. By the time we left Starbucks, the temperature had already risen about 5 degrees. We drove over to the race site and snagged a parking spot at the picnic area near the starting line. There were over 300 participants at this run, and the parking lot near the start had about 30 parking spots available. I should mention, one reason we were so lucky is we arrived an hour early. We picked up our race bibs around 8:15 and then sat in the car until 9:15 (the race was scheduled to start at 9:30). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Sitting in the car, we took a few goofy pictures together to kill the time. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9TS5aChDtPfJRmYllPWd6FCXrFLX0ZcNAohTQaPuTX4myZLreMqVrfBPJg8xej_Cuq6bSBZjTX0NdStWo7R_QLGuAd2Ysqrc4LvU4f7Fg-IXhf509vap6HIIrRy1fYuRAC9-ucmWbMBGg/s1600/blogger-image--739839668.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="312" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9TS5aChDtPfJRmYllPWd6FCXrFLX0ZcNAohTQaPuTX4myZLreMqVrfBPJg8xej_Cuq6bSBZjTX0NdStWo7R_QLGuAd2Ysqrc4LvU4f7Fg-IXhf509vap6HIIrRy1fYuRAC9-ucmWbMBGg/s320/blogger-image--739839668.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Photo credit @Sizzle_bean</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">It was nice to be at the starting line in a warm car and not have to worry about walking in the cold, in a hurry, to get to the starting line. About 20 minutes before the race started, i decided to get out of the car and stretch my legs (and throw out our coffee cups). I saw a girl I used to work with taking a picture with her husband, so I went over to say hi and offered to take the photo for them. It was nice to see her and to catch up. When I got back to the car, we took our traditional pre-race picture together and then headed to the starting line. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This time, we didn't start right at the front. The run was on chip times, not gun time and this run wasn't about winning, so i didn't feel pressure to be at the front. The race was scheduled to start at 9:30 but there was a slight delay and the run started around 3 minutes after the scheduled start. The only complaint i have about the starting line is that the announcer didn't have a strong speaker to broadcast what he was saying, so i had to strain to hear. I'm glad i didn't run the 15K because i couldn't hear how he was explaining the course. Later, watching some of the 15K runners i heard two runners passing each other ask if they were at the halfway mark. I think the speaker not being so loud left a lot of people not being able to hear how the route went. It left a bit of confusion for the 15K runner. The race did have lots of volunteers directing though, so that helped the runners to not get lost. There were no mile markers for the 15K runners- the 15K course was a 2 loop out and back course.</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Once the race started, Paul and I fell into stride with each other and were running strong. I communicated to him when i felt the pace was uncomfortable and we backed off a little. I did find myself enjoying running without headphones and a watch. I was able to talk with Paul and i felt at ease not checking every minute what my pace was. My favorite part about this run was that it was an out and back run. I love those! I always feel as though i thrive on the return; i know how far i have to go and am able to give it my all. When we turned around to head back to the finish line (starting line), Paul felt something shift in his stomach, i think it was the Tall latte from Starbucks and had a bit of pain running. Despite his stomach pain, we both felt strong in our running on the way back. Strong as we felt, i did feel like my legs were dying and like the pace was uncomfortable, but that is also how i knew i was running faster then normal. When we could see the finish line, we picked up our pace to a spring and finished strong. Of course, we finished hand in hand- we always do :)</span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEindORv5ycqVmh9NylPVpqyl6Oz-t2AO7cYNksjsuLUKgIZDuHJPnhGeffTreMgEWN1Zn8azwQqLBJn57B_ngdrw5MNba3SaC0b7aLG7EGeDE821uR3pdrpli67zifTDWkaf9yhce8a-M9_/s1600/blogger-image--807402892.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEindORv5ycqVmh9NylPVpqyl6Oz-t2AO7cYNksjsuLUKgIZDuHJPnhGeffTreMgEWN1Zn8azwQqLBJn57B_ngdrw5MNba3SaC0b7aLG7EGeDE821uR3pdrpli67zifTDWkaf9yhce8a-M9_/s320/blogger-image--807402892.jpg" width="320" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Heading to the finish line. In stride with each other.</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After crossing the finish line, we walked for a bit before heading to the car. I needed to grab my phone so we could take our traditional after race photo. On my phone was an email notification from the run. I had finished 26 seconds faster then i had predicted us to finish, Paul finished 27 seconds faster. We finished in 15:22 and 15:21. When we crossed the finish line (before checking out phones) Paul said to me that he was guessing our time would be 16:05. We ran faster at this run then we had been training at and felt slower then we were. To me, this means that we have a bright future ahead of us if we start training more often and more consistently. And by bright i mean our races will be faster and our bodies stronger. </span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3tQMgHWuTL5_GdAyMvRp0Ul5oJxPbGbpUn-_QlEMyeYisfBbTE5Dqd8cOf4S2XyDYpAXJmr3Tn-dol8KAXk-sZDsRdMAGWy3umKQ0DYAWy1UYeJosfT5R06wUpp8MJu02eJrPn24HGUCg/s1600/blogger-image-352883224.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3tQMgHWuTL5_GdAyMvRp0Ul5oJxPbGbpUn-_QlEMyeYisfBbTE5Dqd8cOf4S2XyDYpAXJmr3Tn-dol8KAXk-sZDsRdMAGWy3umKQ0DYAWy1UYeJosfT5R06wUpp8MJu02eJrPn24HGUCg/s640/blogger-image-352883224.jpg" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">after race photo:)</span></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">After taking our after race picture, I suggested we go get some water and hang out for a little while to watch the people running the 15K. Also, w</span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">e realized we were trapped- the 15K was running past the finish line to make a loop and cars couldn't get out. So we grabbed a cup of coffee and sat on the side of the road to watch the runners. I saw my friend Alyson run by so I made sure to cheer for her and on her loop back snagged a few action photos for her. Paul and I were really impressed with the 1st place runner of the 15K and watched him loop around and stayed around to watched him finish. He finished the 9.4 miles in 58 minutes. After he finished, we headed over to the gazebo where the food/coffee/water was to hear the winners of the turkeys from the 2 mile. </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The last turkey winner from the 2 mile run was 25 seconds off of her prediction time. I was next in line for a turkey! oh well, i cant win them all! I did finish 1st in my age group and 7th female overall. I'm very pleased with how Paul and I ran and I'm looking forward to our next race together on Thanksgiving morning. I definitely want to run the prediction run again next year, and I think with more consistent training, we can run faster and stronger and have a better idea of what our final time would be. I want to win a turkey next year! </span></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhukYEEps3P54Pg9icxcgibRSKJMOI8cP7yTi04iRTuXnvFM7kcQoB30Lmm67Dj7_irMn4_nxtjimuffNS54f8grQIrBD7eYpaASouBGCS-CdbOP3ysmLK35IF9fI29ntNdRlTHdrpRTE1w/s640/blogger-image--52414817.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span style="font-size: x-small;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhukYEEps3P54Pg9icxcgibRSKJMOI8cP7yTi04iRTuXnvFM7kcQoB30Lmm67Dj7_irMn4_nxtjimuffNS54f8grQIrBD7eYpaASouBGCS-CdbOP3ysmLK35IF9fI29ntNdRlTHdrpRTE1w/s320/blogger-image--52414817.jpg" width="240" /></span></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">watching the 15K Runners. </span></td></tr>
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<br /><b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Questions for you:</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Whats the strangest prize you've seen given at a race?</span></b></div>
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<b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Are you doing any holiday themed races this year?</span></b><br /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"></span><br /><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"></span></div>
Serenity On The Open Roadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04056864322118320877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8064629312182008654.post-43017974865667101822015-11-08T10:36:00.001-08:002015-11-08T10:36:56.965-08:00Hemp Hearts Review<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This past month, I had the opportunity to review <a href="http://manitobaharvest.com/category/13/Hemp+Hearts.html">Manitoba Harvest Hemp Hearts.</a> Hemp hearts, are the heart of a hemp seed. They are easy to eat and remind me of the texture of quinoa. Packed with 10grams of plant based protein and 10 grams of omegas per 30 gram serving, they are a great source of nutrients. I am a huge chia seed lover and hemp hearts have more protein and omegas then my chia seeds!<br />
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I found Hemp Hearts very easy to use with my daily meals. I love having a salad for lunch and yogurt for breakfast or a snack. I simply just sprinkled the hemp hearts on to what I was eating, and voila! I had an instant serving of nutritional goodness. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A bit blurry, sorry!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I was slightly hesitant about trying the hemp hearts- I was afraid I would hate the texture or the flavor. When sprinkled on my salad, I didn't even notice them, and when added to my yogurt, I was able to easily stir them in. The texture reminded me of having chia seeds mixed into my yogurt.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Hemp Heart on my Greek yogurt!</td></tr>
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I love that they are very easy to add to your meals, I could even add them to a blended protein shake! Check out <a href="http://manitobaharvest.com/recipes/10391/Choco-PB-Breakfast-Shake.html">this recipe</a> and just add your 2 tbl spoons of hemp hearts prior to blending! It will give your shake and added texture, but it doesn't change the taste flavor wise! Plus how can you pass up an easy way to get the nutrients your body needs!<br />
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Overall, I was highly satisfied with this product and plan to continue to purchase Hemp Hearts as well as some other goodies from <a href="http://manitobaharvest.com/">Manitoba Harvest</a>!</span><br />
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Serenity On The Open Roadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04056864322118320877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8064629312182008654.post-8818420840012907532015-11-04T08:21:00.000-08:002015-11-04T08:26:49.651-08:00Let Go<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">The last 10 days, I've had so many thoughts racing around in my head that I haven't been able to figure out what I wanted to write about. This week, it became clear to me what I needed to talk about. I say need, because this is something that I need to do for myself, I need to get these thoughts down, I need to talk about what's bothering me and what I'm currently struggling with. Maybe someone will benefit from reading this or maybe someone will leave a comment that will help me. I guess time well tell. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This past Monday, I attended a Church service with my Fiancé and his family. The service was on All Soul's Day, and we were there to remember his grandmother who passed in the spring. It was a great service and many were remembered. During the Priest's homily, he talked about how when we thought we had dealt with grief and moved on, it sneaks back up on us. Grief comes in stages, and sometimes those stages can be things that trigger a memory causing you to feel all the feels again. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This past Sunday, I had one of those triggering moments. Paul and I were walking through Target looking for the aisle with the Vacuums (ours broke Saturday) and while we were wandering around, we passed through the baby section. I felt so overwhelmed with sadness. I had tons of memories flood in from when we were pregnant and looking at what we needed/wanted to buy for our baby. This month I'm getting tons of mail from baby and maternity stores and as well as emails and coupons for baby items. All of this just triggers more sadness in me, making me long for what we've lost. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">This month is a hard month. I don't do good with holidays. I especially don't do well with holidays centered around food. And now, to be honest, I'm overwhelmingly sad. This would've been my last month of pregnancy; I was due Nov 31 and that's hard for me to deal with right now. I could keep suppressing this and saying I'm fine, but sometimes, I need to talk about what is bothering or hurting me. We all do. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Paul mentioned to me that I have a lot of things from my past that I'm holding on to- and it's not in a healthy way. I need to let go. I've been dwelling on how I used to be and striving to be that girl again- to be thinner, prettier, and to run as fast as I used to- but that is all past me and I cannot rewind. I was a different person then- and I was not necessarily a healthy person at that time either. Today I may look a bit different on the outside, but I've finally started to beat this demon of an eating disorder. I am pretty, It's my own insecurities telling me that I'm not. And yes, I may run</span><span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> slower than I did 2 years ago- but I'm not killing myself with over training these days. I also took time off from running to deal with eating disorder treatment, therapy and to process the grief of losing the baby. I'm slowly learning to process everything that has happened that last decade or so that I haven't dealt with. There is a lot of grief to deal with. </span></span></div>
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<span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">My </span><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">best friend posted this to her Facebook yesterday. What perfect timing! It rang very true to what I have been thinking about the last few days. </span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="" aria-busy="false" aria-describedby="fbPhotosSnowliftCaption" class="spotlight" height="226" src="https://scontent-ord1-1.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-xap1/v/t1.0-9/12208396_10103437146412925_949852462592567496_n.jpg?oh=e2d4292e13e25b49c59a919f3ebd61dc&oe=56F8F8BE" style="height: 403px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; width: 570px;" width="320" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">photo credit : @nikkipowersyoga</span></td></tr>
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<span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">I need to let myself feel the sadness and then let it go. I have a right to be sad, but I shouldn't stay stuck in this place. That is not a good thing for me to do, nor a healthy thing. There will always be little moments that will spark a memory and a feeling, that is unavoidable, but I have a choice on how I react. I need to be grateful for what I do have. If I want to live in my past, I will only hurt myself. I have been given so many blessings this past year- an amazing fiancé, health, and sobriety to name a few. </span></span></div>
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<span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">Instead of dwelling on my past, its time to look to my future. What does my Higher Power have in store for me, what can I do to live the life He wants me to live. What are my goals and dreams? Its time to take action to make positive things happen. </span></span></div>
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<span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">In yoga, I constantly hear about surrender and letting go of the ego. I need to bring my practice to my everyday life. To breathe in and let go- of my past, of my ego and to surrender. To trust my Higher Power and to know that even though I don't know what the future holds for me, everything will be alright. </span></span></div>
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<span class="text_exposed_show"><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"><br />"The truth is, unless you let go, unless you forgive yourself, unless you forgive the situation, unless you realize that the situation is over, you cannot move forward."</span></span></div>
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<span class="text_exposed_show"><span class="text_exposed_show"><b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;">November and December are Gratitude months. I challenge all of you to take time each day to write down 5 things you are grateful for.</span></b><span style="font-family: "verdana" , sans-serif;"> </span></span></span></div>
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Serenity On The Open Roadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04056864322118320877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8064629312182008654.post-28639043198171852202015-10-25T16:08:00.002-07:002015-10-25T16:08:23.658-07:00Monster Run 5K<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Lets talk about bad races. The majority of runners experience a bad race here and there. This fall mine have all been okay, I haven't PR'd but I also haven't had amazing races. I have only myself and lack of training to blame for that. I wouldn't call my races bad races, just ones that I could improve upon. Last weekends 5K- I would consider that a bad race. Sure, I won my age group and finished 45th out of 610 5K competitors, but I could have done a lot better. Its not that I am a slow runner, by no means is that the case- its that my mental game is weak, my training is not where it should be, and I made huge racing errors. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">With that being said, I still had fun at last weekends <a href="http://www.visioneventmanagement.com/pages/monster-run.php">Monster Run 5K</a>. The run is paired with a Halloween themed festival! Prior to the race beginning there is pumpkin carving, kids races and costume contests. After the race, each competitor gets a free hot dog- the wiener mobile is even there! And there is a movie screened in the park- this years was the kids movie Hotel Transylvania. A few years ago, <a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/race/1944750/monster-run">Runners World</a> even mentioned this race in their race finder article. The one difference this year from prior years, is that they now offered a 5 Mile race along with the 5K.</span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9XYXCziRuEekGh9zjb1OJpytySufpw_rI5DDKuDgFXTjCYSvS3OSg0K5gdpDtVqctbrUYX_fAMsI6HZL0EXeSuathkN5Vc6JZBXyH4rRwUGjefcrJfHoYJkRycxgHHesEEVpwt3rjLyEj/s640/blogger-image-1436931995.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9XYXCziRuEekGh9zjb1OJpytySufpw_rI5DDKuDgFXTjCYSvS3OSg0K5gdpDtVqctbrUYX_fAMsI6HZL0EXeSuathkN5Vc6JZBXyH4rRwUGjefcrJfHoYJkRycxgHHesEEVpwt3rjLyEj/s400/blogger-image-1436931995.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">My fiancé and I got to the race around 3:30 to pick up our bibs and race packet (aka t-shirt). We had an easy time finding parking- super rare and super lucky! As we were walking to get our packets, the kid's races were finishing up. We saw parents running with their 2 and 3 year olds, some parents carrying their kids. It was very cute! I would say that 80% of the people participating were in costume. My fiancé and I went costume shopping about 2 days prior and deciding on something simple that we could run in. We ran as skeletons. Nice part about our costumes is we can reuse them! Which I actually plan on doing for work on the 31st. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHp_pz067Qdir_A1vTZwFo9FUUJguQpx4eIKHHaDQ95ysH4MlD2EH2yNN3MxDcsQOaaXviqy0cLe_J20Vtp16J43_btInWsZf1OnWA7fQd13j5CdqKEeOGVJaUlc1FUvnyie8ivCgYDQ5y/s640/blogger-image-1246091514.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjHp_pz067Qdir_A1vTZwFo9FUUJguQpx4eIKHHaDQ95ysH4MlD2EH2yNN3MxDcsQOaaXviqy0cLe_J20Vtp16J43_btInWsZf1OnWA7fQd13j5CdqKEeOGVJaUlc1FUvnyie8ivCgYDQ5y/s320/blogger-image-1246091514.jpg" width="180" /></a></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnvQ_q3i3YCYDVd6_25rHiAIw5pagd_e1NVkt_A9VO6-IjJfygD3xbKoQ0kTp7N5UlGK3L_jIEqZ-vbYVdtuZWc2YjBsIZwR_u0QMeL-ivRq5sY2F5KCP5L2s288jNbY2UuoXGZghkr745/s640/blogger-image--431942775.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgnvQ_q3i3YCYDVd6_25rHiAIw5pagd_e1NVkt_A9VO6-IjJfygD3xbKoQ0kTp7N5UlGK3L_jIEqZ-vbYVdtuZWc2YjBsIZwR_u0QMeL-ivRq5sY2F5KCP5L2s288jNbY2UuoXGZghkr745/s320/blogger-image--431942775.jpg" width="180" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The weather was a bit chilly with a slight wind and intense sunshine! I can't stand to be cold on any part of my body, and since we had time, we took a walk to a nearby Walgreen's so i could get some cheap gloves. My fingers were freezing and I didn't want to risk that throwing off my head game (which needs a ton of work). </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">After getting me gloves, we walked back to the festival and took a bunch of pictures together. I had fun looking at all the different costumes and I of course was scoping out runners to see who I thought would be a top finisher. I had told myself going into this 5K that it wasn't about winning, it was about having fun. My fiancé is a little tired of hearing me beat myself up after races that I don't win, and he just wants to run together and have fun. I did not have as much fun running this race as I should have. In fact I wanted to scream and cry. But more on that later. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">With ten minutes until the start of the race (the 5k and 5 miler started together and had different break off points), we went and lined up. We placed ourselves in the front. We always do. (hmm, maybe I should change that to take a different mental approach). There were a few kids (7-8 year olds) who ran up to the front wanting to start first. Those kids didn't stay in the front, but I'm sure they had fun, and they finished a 5K race which is awesome. I definitely (when I have kids) want them to race with me. </span><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJnNMydrJw08j63lDpuNnE6gXYE-c7h0NfwNICWkjyZ_IRtQIqxb4dn-GFqy95y0Y_ZOYd5KsxVhoEdIhGqu-uwrGF_G4PEaaWWyg-rXk4HkFd4hCTZqoEdMfZldENKzIqg3XAdz_pTDRD/s640/blogger-image-712578307.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJnNMydrJw08j63lDpuNnE6gXYE-c7h0NfwNICWkjyZ_IRtQIqxb4dn-GFqy95y0Y_ZOYd5KsxVhoEdIhGqu-uwrGF_G4PEaaWWyg-rXk4HkFd4hCTZqoEdMfZldENKzIqg3XAdz_pTDRD/s640/blogger-image-712578307.jpg" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Anyways, so we are at the starting line. There is a giant minion next to us. We hear the announcer state that "The Minion" is the winner of the previous weekends Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon! As you can see in the picture below, this costume was huge! (And, he won the 5 Miler that day holding a 5:35 pace in that costume! Insanley amazing!) Hearing that he was the winner of the Marathon, I mentally noted around what pace this guy probably runs at and that I shouldnt go out in front of him. I wish I listened to myself sometimes. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBAZqu3h89vwv1pgAntu5Hbn7doVXZiHgFkYjfm9WFKnudjNXsipOfnTEBz6D7EsbsxN9n3gKP0q8CPy9YciC_tuLbkukNg9XR9u-ugCTjQcWG0gh45cnqAiGQqN4e3922z46bWjGmjayd/s640/blogger-image-1152317569.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBAZqu3h89vwv1pgAntu5Hbn7doVXZiHgFkYjfm9WFKnudjNXsipOfnTEBz6D7EsbsxN9n3gKP0q8CPy9YciC_tuLbkukNg9XR9u-ugCTjQcWG0gh45cnqAiGQqN4e3922z46bWjGmjayd/s400/blogger-image-1152317569.jpg" width="387" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The gun goes off and I'm off. I felt great, my legs felt strong, and next thing you know, I'm running a 6 minute pace and I'm first person overall. I turn the corner and there is the race truck (the one that leads you the path) and it starts when I get to it. Part of me is stoked that I'm in this position and another part of me is freaking out that I should not be running in 1st place this soon- or at all. So, I checked my watch to see what pace I was running at- 5:59. I checked my Garmin Connect results (its an app that connects to my watch and shows me all the results) and it showed me that at one point my fastest pace was 5:11. Yikes! I used to be stoked about that, but with where my training and fitness level are currently, I should not be running at that pace, not even for a brief moment. So I knew that it was time to back off and that I needed back off now. I tried to slow myself, and honestly, after going out that fast, part of me felt like I was just starting to die. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I went out to fast and i was paying for it. What in the world was I thinking. My fiancé knew we were going out to fast, but he knows how in my head I get and let me do my thing. The first mile started with us going on state street and then turning up a small hill. Once past that hill, we turned to run another 10m to turn up another hill. This hill killed me. My fiancé even noticed that this hill was my end game. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The rest of the race was a great course. It had flat roads, some downhills and only one more uphill. I have one complaint about the course- there were no mile markers!! I run with my Garmin set to show me my pace, not my distance, so the only way I knew how far we had actually run was if I clicked through all the options on my watch to get to the distance tab to see where we were at- which distracts me and causes me to slow down. The majority of the race, I had no reference as to how far we had actually gone. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The last uphill I could hardly breathe and the Police Officer directing traffic even asked me if I was okay since I was wheezing so loud. Note, this is all because I decided to not listen to myself and go out faster then my body can handle right now. Lesson learned. My mistake has also helped me realize where my fitness level is / isn't right now as well. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">After we got up that last hill, I started my routine "go run, go without me" dramatics. When am I going to learn! But as always, my fiancé stayed by my side. I knew we were entering the last mile and would be done soon. I also should mention- I stopped to walk about 800 times during this 5K- that's how bad my mental game had gotten. So when we finally saw the park through the trees, I knew the end was coming and that I could not stop. When we rounded the corner toward the finish line, I gave it all I had and sprinted. Right as we neared the finish line I hear my fiancé yell for me and we grabbed hands. We always finish hand in hand. Its our thing. We do these races together, we battle different thoughts and feelings during the race, but we finish together. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">I finished with a time of 25:31:31 I was 1st in my age group and 44th finisher overall. My fiancé finished in 25:31:05 (even though we held hands as we crossed the finish, he still crossed it first!) placing second in his age group and 43rd overall. I know from our first 5K together <a href="http://swimnrun4life.blogspot.com/2015/03/st-pats-5k-recap.html">this spring</a> that we both could have done better (4 minutes better) but we finished, had some fun and did this together and that is what matters. I'm learning its not always about winning or losing, just accomplishing something and having fun. Its a lesson that is taking me time, I used to race to win, heck I trained to win- I was always trying to train faster than the day prior. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi70ta0EUZEwMHfQdLx4IrNWcBnDMGCvw-55VcdXpJydXL4YIuTQOdihxXj_QS7L_-l_aRm_9supekp55N0m1PDX-TFVIwvGZ4s3dLV6n5BTsUSaXHRnYiaibOX01dGNBVz-LOQKXyeePI2/s640/blogger-image--1904260679.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi70ta0EUZEwMHfQdLx4IrNWcBnDMGCvw-55VcdXpJydXL4YIuTQOdihxXj_QS7L_-l_aRm_9supekp55N0m1PDX-TFVIwvGZ4s3dLV6n5BTsUSaXHRnYiaibOX01dGNBVz-LOQKXyeePI2/s400/blogger-image--1904260679.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">After the race I grabbed a water and went and leaned against the back of a building to catch my breath. I was not used to the chill in the air and it had done a number on my lungs. My fiancé and I didn't stay for any of the festivities being held after. Neither of us felt good and the both of us were coughing from the chill in our lungs. We finished the night with burgers from Red Robin (our after race ritual) and snuggled up watching reruns of Parks And Recreation on Netflix. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">Overall, I really can't beat myself up. I finished, I finished in a stronger placing then most runners, and I got to add another race completed with my Fiancé to the list. I had fun overall. Sure, I wanted to just lay down and die during the race, but I kept going. I know now what I need to work on for my next race and I need to start putting in the work. Hopefully I will have a more positive race recap after the next one I run in a few weeks :) </span></div>
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Serenity On The Open Roadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04056864322118320877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8064629312182008654.post-75915785269229550552015-10-16T09:03:00.000-07:002015-10-16T09:22:42.339-07:00Acceptance<div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Two Fridays ago, I had an interview to work for a new yoga studio in Milwaukee- </span><a href="http://yogasix.com/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Yoga Six</span></a><span style="font-size: x-small;">. I am very excited to say, I got the job! Last Thursday, </span><a href="http://yogasix.com/"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Yoga Six</span></a><span style="font-size: x-small;"> hosted a yoga event downtown. The event was an hour yoga practice followed by hors d'oeuvres and drinks to get to know the other Yogis who had participated in the class, the ladies I'd be working with, and to talk with the instructors about the practice. I am not normally one to head to an event where I don't know anyone, but I am so glad I went! </span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I invited a friend of mine to join me for the practice. He just completed his RYT 200 and is pursuing the RYT 500 this winter. It made perfect sense to invite such a devoted Yogi to this yoga event. Plus, then I would know someone! It was nice to catch up with him for about 15 minutes prior to the start of the practice. We talked about how certain actions in our lives were ego driven and now things are shifting for both of us and its more of an energetic/spiritual force driving us towards our goals. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">The practice was lead by an instructor who had come up from Chicago. She had the help of an instructor from St. Louis (helping students with pose adjustments). Both ladies are teachers with Yoga Six. The help with adjustments was amazing, and the practice made me wish I lived in Chicago so I could take more classes with this instructor. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">At the beginning of the practice, Jenny, out instructor, asked us to reflect on one word that embodied what yoga has brought into our lives, or a way it has affected us. There were two words that popped into my head. Calm and Acceptance.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Midway through our practice, as we stood on our mats and brought our hands to our heart center, she asked us to think of the word we had chosen earlier. Acceptance came to my mind this time. Yoga has brought acceptance to my life in many ways. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Most of my readers know that a part of me has always struggled with self acceptance. Be it with my running, my body, or my life in general. I have always wanted more, wanted thinner, wanted better. Yoga brought me acceptance. It has helped to calm those thoughts. When asked to reflect on the word I'd thought of earlier in the practice, I had so many thoughts run through my head. Acceptance. So many parts of my life have focused on acceptance. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">In my practice, I accept that my practice is my own. It is between me and my mat. I do not focus on how someone else is doing. How strong or weak they hold a pose is between them and their mat. We are all there for the same reason- to practice. We are all on our own journeys. I used to have to compare myself to everyone. When I am practicing I don't do that, I accept that my practice is mine and others around me should not impact what I can do or get out of my practice. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">I've had to accept my body. That is a constant work in progress, but the last 4 years I have come very far. From being 89lbs to 120 is a huge accomplishment. I had to work on acceptance. I had to accept that I was like everyone else- my body needs food to function, nourishment is vital to my survival. I had to accept that weight gain is not a bad thing. That my body needs to be healthy and not a skeleton. This is not always easy for me. I do not always want to accept this. I have my bad days, but the good are more prevalent now. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">I had to accept that I am an alcoholic. I cannot drink like a normal drinker. I cannot drink. I'm okay with that today. Honestly, removing alcohol from my life is one of the best decisions I have ever made. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><br /></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Reflecting on that word, I realized I have leaned to accept who i am on my mat and have begun to carry that into my daily life. My practice is my own, just like my life is my own. My practice is what I make it- Just as my life is what i make it. I can let things destroy me and bring me down, or I can accept that life happens and move forward. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">At the end of the practice, the word acceptance kept ringing in my head. I feel that acceptance is something I will always work on. Self-acceptance and acceptance of others. I am always a work in progress, and that is something I have had to accept :)</span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"> </span><br />
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Serenity On The Open Roadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04056864322118320877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8064629312182008654.post-79982158856274220222015-10-06T12:37:00.002-07:002015-10-06T12:41:21.264-07:00I Am #BOSUStrong<div dir="ltr" style="color: #424242; font-family: Arial; font-size: 12px; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.25; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; text-align: left;">
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Its the last week of the #BOSUStrong challenge! This challenge allowed me a lot of time to reflect on my fitness goals, strengths and weaknesses. My fitness journey is one that will always be continuous. One of my favorite quotes is:</span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: verdana;">"Good Better best, </span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: verdana;">Never take a rest.</span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: verdana;">Til you good is better</span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: verdana;">And your better is best"</span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I am always striving to be better than I was the day before. To be stronger, to be faster, to be a better version of myself. This challenge opened my eyes to how weak my training has been- and how weak I have become- both physically and mentally. My mental game has caused me a lot of problems in my running- making me want to throw in the towel and give up. But I am continuing to persevere and stay strong. I have an amazing support system and surround myself with positive and loving people. I have a very blessed life and for that I am extremely grateful. </span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: verdana;">This week, I have a goal of getting in 20 miles of running- sure that's not a ton, but its a good start. I want to do some hill training and speed training as well. Id like to do 3 yoga practices this week and 3 days of strength training. If I run, practice yoga, and strength train in the same day- then power to me! <b></b></span></div>
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<span style="color: magenta; font-family: verdana;"><b>What are your goals this week?</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><strong>Week 4: What makes me #BOSUStrong!</strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This week is the very last week of the #bosustrong challenge that has inspired me to <span style="color: purple;"><b><span style="color: magenta;">up my fitness game!</span> </b></span>Before starting the challenge, my goal was to <b><span style="color: magenta;">actively participate in this challenge</span></b><span style="color: magenta;"> </span>and now that we’re in the final week I plan to<b><span style="color: magenta;"> not only continue to participate, but to continue using parts of this challenge in the weeks to come. I want to be a fitter stronger faster version of myself, and I will need to continue to put in the work to achieve this goal.</span></b></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">This week we’re focusing on the things that make us BOSUStrong. Here are the 10 things that make me #BOSUStrong:</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I am <b><span style="color: magenta;">always striving to be a better version of myself!</span></b><br /><br />I will always<b><span style="color: magenta;"> set goals and chase after them! Half the fun is achieving goals! Whether I'm chasing a PR, working towards holding a new yoga pose, or just trying to strengthen my body.</span></b></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b><span style="color: magenta;"></span></b></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br />I never <b><span style="color: magenta;">give up. Sure, I want to give up half the time, but I don't! Mind over matter! </span></b><br /><br />I do <b><span style="color: magenta;">my best when I have support. I have written in previous posts how having my fiancé by my side when running helps me tremendously. He supports me in everything I do. When I finally nail a new yoga pose I've been working on, he is there to congratulate me. I surround myself with positive and uplifting people. That is the kind of person I want to be, so I find being around like minded people to help. </span></b></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b><span style="color: magenta;"></span></b></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br />I love to </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: magenta; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>#stopdropandyoga Yes, I'm guilty of being that person who posts yoga poses on her Instagram. When I feel inspired I go for it! I love to take creative shots with my poses. And I LOVE to fall into a backbend!</b></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I am inspired to <b><span style="color: magenta;">inspire others. I want others to see in me the good, and I want them to want to embrace the good in themselves. I feel we are all working on being the best versions of ourselves, and if I can inspire someone to keep doing that or work harder, Ill call that a success. </span></b><br /><br />I love to encourage others to <b><span style="color: magenta;">try their hardest and chase their goals. My fiancé didn't start running races until I came around. I encourage him to try, and he has more than succeeded! He has become an amazing runner- he always was- he just didn't run like he does now. In my social circle, I have friend always telling me they are about to try a new yoga class or signed up for their first 5k. Its an amazing feeling to have them come to me to share something so exciting. I hope to always motivate and encourage others to try new things and continuously chase goals. </span></b></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b><span style="color: magenta;"></span></b></span></span></span><span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="color: magenta;"><br /><b></b></span>I have <b><span style="color: magenta;">bad days. Its a part of being human. I have runs where I end up walking half the time, but I'm out there trying, which is more than the person sitting on their couch can say. </span></b></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><br /></span></span></span>
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I am proud of <b><span style="color: magenta;">who I am. I have battled a lot in my life. I don't let that hold me back or keep me from growing. We have to fall to get back up. </span></b></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b><span style="color: magenta;"></span></b><br />I hope to </span></span></span><span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: magenta; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>finish 2015 strong!</b></span></span></span></div>
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Serenity On The Open Roadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04056864322118320877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8064629312182008654.post-53620585637561986782015-10-05T08:37:00.001-07:002015-10-05T08:38:10.245-07:00September Review<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Another month has come and gone and I'm over here thinking, did September really happen? I feel like it was July just yesterday!! I'm excited for the fall though- warm clothes, more races, hot cocoa, pumpkin patches, apple pies. All sorts of goodness. But its sad to realize summer is over. I feel like I missed it. I don't have a nice bronzed tan and I didn't log a ton of miles outside while the weather was perfect. There's always next year. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">August sparked the fire in me, and September is where I put in work. Sure, I slacked and didn't work my ass off, but I did more than I had in a long time. In June I ran 30.8 miles, July 13.5 and August 14.1- which is not a lot. The way I look at it, I ran for a week each month. September I didn't accomplish a whole lot more, but I tried. I had bursts of motivation, I had moments of inspiration, and I made a conscious effort to lace up and start running. My total mileage for September was only 45.0 miles, but I was making more of an effort. I still had my days, which happened to fall all in a row, where I didn't run. However, the days I did run, I ran longer mileage and pushed myself. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">September, I was signed up for 2 races. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">I hadn't raced since my <a href="http://swimnrun4life.blogspot.com/2015/06/summerfest-rock-n-sole-half-marathon.html">half marathon</a></span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"> in June (that race is one reason my June mileage is higher than July and August). The races were back to back weekends. I put in some training before the<a href="http://swimnrun4life.blogspot.com/2015/09/briggs-al-run-walk-for-children-hospital.html"> first race,</a></span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"> but the week of the <a href="http://swimnrun4life.blogspot.com/2015/10/brewers-mini-marathon-10k.html">second</a>, </span><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">I only ran once. I see there is a lot of room for improvement. I have one race in October and I plan to up my game!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">With September over, its time to reexamine where I'm at- My goal is to run 75+ miles a month for the rest of the year. That means no sitting on the couch feeling all "woe is me", I need to lace up and get out there. With fall officially being here, my days of running outside are about to become limited. I have started to dislike treadmill training, but I need to get reacquainted, as I will be spending the winter months indoors at the gym. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">The race I'm participating in this month is 2 weeks away. I need to make a conscious effort to really put in the work. I plan to not only log more miles, but to add in hill training and speed work. I also plan to start more cross training and weight training again. I want to improve in all areas of my fitness and work towards gaining my speed and strength back. I'm hoping that when I do my October review, I will have more of a success story to report! :) </span></div>
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<b>What are your goals for the end of the year?</b></div>
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<b>Do you have any fall races lined up?<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span></b></div>
Serenity On The Open Roadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04056864322118320877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8064629312182008654.post-71122379763550144862015-10-04T12:06:00.000-07:002015-10-04T12:15:59.582-07:00Brewers Mini Marathon & 10K<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Last week Saturday, my Fiancé and I participated in the Brewers Mini-Marathon and 10K. We ran the 10K. The morning of the race, I did not feel ready. I was overly emotional and tired. When the alarm went off I rolled over and said to my fiancé "Good luck, have fun". My head was just not mentally prepared to get up and run. After pouting for a few minutes, I rolled myself out of bed and started to get ready. The race was held at Miller Park, the Milwaukee Brewers (baseball) Stadium. The stadium is about a 15 minute drive from our house. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK9z94u4i1jv6aWF2I701dhNZ984-veiDkec9unaU8Sjd7R0ViacJh23D-x3dq2adOj80jMg2gXzeBEH92Abkj7e9J38hXztiD6xeg97KpQHzbjEBzWY7MnRFPAHATp1iXRssDIOw8qP1u/s640/blogger-image-6631992.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">When we got to the race, we were directed to a parking spot. There was a lot more traffic than I had expected. We parked in one of the stadiums lots and walked to the starting line. The parking lots were filling up as if it was a game day. I did a quick port-a-potty run and then we headed up to the stadium-where the start and finish line were located. I didn't realize that the stadium would be open and I could have used a nicer restroom. My fiancé did his bathroom stop, I went and washed my hands and we took a quick selfie before heading to the start line at 6:40 for the 7am start. </span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK9z94u4i1jv6aWF2I701dhNZ984-veiDkec9unaU8Sjd7R0ViacJh23D-x3dq2adOj80jMg2gXzeBEH92Abkj7e9J38hXztiD6xeg97KpQHzbjEBzWY7MnRFPAHATp1iXRssDIOw8qP1u/s640/blogger-image-6631992.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjK9z94u4i1jv6aWF2I701dhNZ984-veiDkec9unaU8Sjd7R0ViacJh23D-x3dq2adOj80jMg2gXzeBEH92Abkj7e9J38hXztiD6xeg97KpQHzbjEBzWY7MnRFPAHATp1iXRssDIOw8qP1u/s320/blogger-image-6631992.jpg" width="240" /></a></td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">At the starting line, we placed ourselves at the front. I wanted to try and go out hard, and see how I could maintain my pace. I noticed a woman at the front who I could tell just by looking at her would win (I was right). Its one of my talents- I can get to the start line of most races and pick out the winner prior to the race beginning. 10K runners started 15 minutes prior to the half marathon runners. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">When the race started, we were in the second row of runners to go off the starting line. Mile one was relatively flat, which fooled me to thinking the majority of the race would be flat. I had viewed the race map a few times prior to the day of, but I hadn't done any research as to what the course would be like with inclines. Inclines (hills) are my worst enemy. The minute I'm faced with a hill, my running will be going downhill- haha- but really, hills kill me. Mile one went around part of the stadium and an attached parking lot, leading us out towards miller brewing company. I hit <b>Mile 1 in 7:32</b>. I felt good and my legs didn't feel dead. My fiancé and I were still at the front of the pack. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJp6PIC1i1TD4xizB6DA83Eb2QeICNhHHziI3YeJgVI_TJ22gzO3-Wcd3EaO0X0eMOyG5f3LVJ2nW9-hti119z1gTs40ahWLkiyQ_SHxRFmwaPuMSo90TfR9azcdYjVg218ChywC0X5GiI/s640/blogger-image--47285583.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">My fiancé runs with Nike + to track his mile times and inclines. I use my Garmin Forerunner 10. Looking at his app, i was able to see the difference in inclines. Mile 1 was -22ft. (flat with some downhill). Mile 2 had us hit the first set of hills- total incline for that mile was +39ft. Mile 2 started flat, the middle of the mile, however had two up-hills, and then the mile ended flat, rounding around miller brewing company. I hit <b>Mile 2 in 8:23</b>. I could already feel my quads burning from the hills. By the time we hit mile 3, I was starting to think about giving up. 5ks are the perfect race distance for me. At mile 3 I knew that my fiancé could finish much stronger if he didn't run with me, but the reason he does these races is to run with me. (Mile 4 I started telling him he could go run without me- its become my pattern). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Mile 3 had +8ft incline. A relatively flat mile. Mile 3 was straight down the same road. I hit <b>Mile 3 in 8:42. </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Mile 4 sucked the life out of me. There was a water stop at the beginning of mile 4 that I took advantage of. My fiancé told me after the race that he was surprised I stopped for water. I just needed an excuse to slow down and a water stop always gives me that. It started relatively flat but ended on an on ramp. Prior to the water stop I had slowed my pace down. After the water, I picked up pace knowing the on ramp was coming and would cause me to slow down. When we hit the ramp, </span><span style="font-family: Verdana;">I stopped to walk (my walking lasted literally 5 seconds) but I needed to slow down. I don't have legs that are able to run hills. I've started to realize how much this affects me in races and am starting to incorporate hill training into my runs. I need to build up the strength in my legs so I don't have more races like this one. The total incline for mile 4 was +46ft and I ran <b>Mile 4 in 10:04 </b>aka- I died on mile 4. I'm taking this as a learning experience. I now know my biggest weakness and can work towards improving in this area of my running. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Once off the on ramp, the hill just kept going. We were now on Hawley road heading up towards Wells St. Mile 5 eventually turned onto Wells and became a flat course again. Mile 5 ended with us running down the first hill we had gone up and heading back toward the stadium. Mile 5 had me in my head and I walked about 2 more times, and wanted to cry. I actually did start crying for about 10 seconds. I just wanted to be done, I felt defeated, slow and like a failure. I just wanted to finish! I was getting frustrated with people running between me and my fiancé separating us from running next to each other. I just let every little thing bother me on this mile. Once again, if it weren't for my fiancés encouraging looks and telling me we were almost done, I would have started to really give up. I would have finished, but I would have walked and cried for a bit first. I'm glad I didn't do that and continued to push myself. I finished <b>Mile 5 in 9:27.</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The beginning of mile 6 made a square around one of the parking lots and headed into the underground part of the stadium- the part that is off limits to the public. We ran through the stadium onto the field where we hit the end of mile 6.</span><span style="font-family: Verdana;"> I loved being on the field and seeing myself on the jumbo Tron, but I hate how it got congested. The running space decreases dramatically and its a struggle to get past anyone. I was starting to get my grove back at this point, but I couldn't get around anyone. I hit <b>Mile 6 in 9:38. </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">The last 0.2 of the race, I started to pick up my pace only to die again. I could see the finish line and my fiancé was pumping my up to finish hard but I had to back off. I couldn't breathe and was wheezing. I had jumped the gun on my finish (same as I had the <a href="http://swimnrun4life.blogspot.com/2015/09/briggs-al-run-walk-for-children-hospital.html">weekend prior</a>). All the runners I had just spent effort passing were starting to pass me. I took the 5 seconds to slow down and then picked the pace back up. My fiancé and I crossed the finish line hand in hand with big smiles. We finished!! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I finished 21st female in my division, 132 in my gender and 334 overall. My finish time was 55:58 with a 9:00/mi pace (my Garmin told me I had an 8:56 pace). Overall, I'm satisfied with my results. Its not as fast as <a href="http://swimnrun4life.blogspot.com/2012/08/vibha-dream-mile-2012-10k.html">previous 10ks I've run</a> but with where my training (or lack of) has been, I did alright. My fiancé definitely could have finished faster, but we don't sign up for these to run off on the other, we sign up to do them together. In 2 weeks we have a 5K race and plan to dominate. Like I said previously, 5ks are my strongest! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm excited to get back into my training and see what I can pull off on Oct 17th. I am hoping for 20min 5k. Not my fastest but not my slowest. I don't have to win, although it wouldn't hurt. My goal is to race smart, finish hard, and leave everything I've got on the course. And of course, to have fun!</span></div>
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Serenity On The Open Roadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04056864322118320877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8064629312182008654.post-6537929033316986962015-10-03T07:25:00.001-07:002015-10-03T14:47:26.060-07:00Balance & Stength<div style="color: #424242; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.25; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; text-align: left;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Another week has come and gone! I've found myself, once again, behind on updating and working out. I am struggling so much to find motivation, especially now that fall has officially arrived in Wisconsin. The weather has been windy and cold, with overcast skies- very dreary. I complain more these days about missing workouts then i spend working out. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 1.25;">It used to be the opposite. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 1.25;"> hmm, i think that means its time to make some changes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 1.25;">But, that a</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 1.25;">side, I've realized there are a few things i need in my life to keep me going- having a healthy balance and having strength. This months #BosuStrong challenge has focused on building physical strength, as well as focusing on balance. I need to have my mental, emotional and physical parts in balance for my life to flow evenly. I belived that we need to find balance in all parts of our lives for them to have an easy flow and not feel like a constant uphill battle or struggle. Sure, not every day will be perfect, there will be ups and downs- but that is where we can call on our emotional and mental strength to help us through! </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 1.25;"> Just something to think about... :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 1.25;">Havin said that, we now are ending week three of the #BosuStrong challenge!! How have you been staying #BosuStrong? We are now in week 3 of the #BosuStrong Challenge!! So, with that being said, here is the blog prompt for this week- provided by </span><a href="http://fitapproach.com/" style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 1.25;">SweatPink</a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 1.25;">.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><strong><span style="color: #424242;">We</span><span style="color: #424242; font-size: small;"></span><span style="color: #424242; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><span style="color: #424242; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"></span><span style="color: #424242; font-size: small;"></span><span style="color: #424242;">ek 3: My 5 Fave Stretches and 3 Tips for Toning your </span><span style="color: magenta;">Triceps</span><span style="color: #424242;">!</span></strong></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I can’t believe its already week 3 of the <a href="http://link.email.dynect.net/link.php?H=faG4YsHB1kOcXrql%2FjAZAv8UiQ%2B6%2FUEFUIlCl2SIL9z9%2BUQfYnL1%2F%2FARw%2BYDyW6y94Q9U%2Fjrm3b6tUW07o1jPM6WiF76EQX22H%2BD6rSPPHHdAl9uKBQSuP5%2FBtwICdBM&G=0&R=https%3A%2F%2Fapp.hatchbuck.com%2FTrackLinkClick%3FID2%3DVVwll0YQg9Ku3XMIH_8MbP7QF89D97qn8LYKO-pGQpVv8WUR1BCjpCre0l2eWYnE0&I=20150928103246.000004a5b1c3%40mail6-50-ussnn1.prod.dc.dyndns.com&X=MHwxMDQ4ODcwOjc1NTA4Mzg4OzF8MTA0ODg3MToxNzg2NDE0Mjs%3D" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc;">#BosuStrong challenge</span></a>, time flies when you’re having fun! Last week we focused on balance and I was proud of myself for </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: magenta; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>finding balance in my everyday life. I was able to get in workouts (although not a lot of them) while keeping my daily routine in check</b></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">. This week its all about stretching and toning – so make sure you join in on the fun!</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Since we’re talking about stretching, here are 5 of my all time favorite stretches:</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">I love to stretch my legs by doing </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: magenta; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>yoga! Yoga is my go to for EVERYTHING! If there is a muscle group you are looking to strengthen, tone or stretch- Yoga can and will help you get there</b></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">.<br /><br />My favorite total body stretch is </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: magenta; font-size: 14px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>to pretend I'm a cat! What?! There isn't a name that for this that i know of, but, like a cat who lays and stretches out, i love doing that. I feel it in every part of my body! Its what i do every morning when i wake up and sometimes mid day i stand up on my tip toes and just reach up! What a good feeling. </b></span><span style="background-color: transparent; vertical-align: baseline;"><br /></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="background-color: transparent; vertical-align: baseline;"><img height="213" src="https://c2.staticflickr.com/4/3163/2351186342_d720b14b66.jpg" width="320" /></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="background-color: transparent; vertical-align: baseline;"><span style="font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">I swear when I do<span style="color: magenta;"><b> yoga,</b></span> it feels like <span style="color: magenta;"><b>all of me- mind and body, are getting in an amazing workout. Yoga requires physcial stregth and balance. Just like my life- it requres streght and balance. Without those two keys things, i would fall apart. </b></span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">I stretch my mind by <span style="color: magenta;"><b>continuously learning. I love to get lost in a good book, follow news blogs, have intellectual conversations! Anything to keep my mind active and always learning. I feel that i stay on top of my A game when my mind is also being challenged. </b></span></span><br /><br /><span style="font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;">I try to stretch out of my comfort zone by<span style="color: magenta;"><b> pushing myself. The past few races have been a struggle for me and really challenge me to go out of my comfort zone. I would have loved to have thrown in the towel and walked to the nearest burger joint and called it a day, but i need to make myself earn that burger first. </b></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">And if you’re looking for a great way to tone your </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: magenta; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>triceps</b></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">, here are my fave 3 </span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: magenta; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>exercises:</b></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: magenta; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b><br /></b></span></span></span>
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: magenta; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>-Triceps Dips</b></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixYDJIbjpPFXSQ0Y_APE_uTtEG0QnUKflSv-QWYP7sEO7SAGp-WqPtSeLyyDCR1i9gmnzsFbhwnSczP1NK9vXgOkBZ3wNsPlPV-ilXmjPR0aV8DvFoQh-T1a7PpHJ-fL5Bvg7YBA6GPgw/s1600/tricep+dip.jpg" /></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="background-color: transparent; color: magenta; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>-Overhead extensions (with weights) </b></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><img height="200" src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?&id=OIP.Mf57b1dfe0b11325097126d12c6e4ac96H0&w=300&h=300&c=0&pid=1.9&rs=0&p=0" width="118" /></span><br />
<span style="color: magenta; font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b>-Tricep pull downs- weighted</b></span></span><br />
<img src="https://tse1.mm.bing.net/th?&id=JN.7TIUMx7aAFYo9PDLb4c1cw&w=300&h=300&c=0&pid=1.9&rs=0&p=0" /></div>
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Serenity On The Open Roadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04056864322118320877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8064629312182008654.post-84024877509051745912015-09-24T14:52:00.001-07:002015-09-24T15:39:33.310-07:00Still Going #BosuStrong!<div dir="ltr" style="color: #424242; font-family: Arial; font-style: normal; line-height: 1.25; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">This past Monday, stared week two of <a href="http://fitapproach.com/">FitApproach </a></span></span><span style="font-family: verdana;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">#BosuStrong challenge! I have to admit, I focused more on my running last week then any other form of working out, and this week, I have been a couch potato. But, there is no time like the present to start making changes and get back into action! Here is this weeks blog prompt! I hope it sparks a bit of inspiration in you, as it did in me:) </span></span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">6 ways I stay balanced</span></strong></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">If you forgot to join me last week for the </span><a href="http://mail.sremail.net/wf/click?upn=ZnhBh7-2BSTmDV2NJgv3cWy0uO70Uql5zn4fR2VqLVAe0MDP-2Fmd1rFrJDpatHbJUOpxAgk9790E2IK2ZD0inegWeDAd2gGhewYJHVc32HTN2x7rzN-2B8FeQR80d2dEbZAIMdzagZgpBy23v0FdNEn2wjVK6fXl5X2ZuVLWPyOb3Dy8-3D_qyMo1CHoATN1sIwi3K1WPyowAQK6XjRE04c94kk06jzgvyn4mu0H6fVjWNU-2BQC0foAtcG39m5rGi6Pd59-2BW1SZC93730TJjJdOBnAjbR3eeGQgzU7nZK7kW8YFQSVxpWA2ZI0e91hLDrF9jLlMeq-2FMx0J6gwVK9tz35bTGyRRa8Zol-2BU9nf4LsLejTnS1foL9zdmf7jtNLQxRk1Zgu88x8y9YvRp-2FuTYibTVATMGeHWXdzUUKuJxchEXUuVrEoqGouNzd10l448iV3p2vltTsw-3D-3D" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">#BOSUStrong challenge</span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> or just weren’t up for the cardio, make sure you join me this week as it’s all about the balance! We’re standing on one leg, lunging, and </span><a href="http://mail.sremail.net/wf/click?upn=ZnhBh7-2BSTmDV2NJgv3cWy0uO70Uql5zn4fR2VqLVAe0MDP-2Fmd1rFrJDpatHbJUOp-2BRafstwYGJEwvwTa-2BzxPAm6g-2Bpa471masso-2FT9-2FUHKtm-2F8AIV4V4eufjAIE0KjOfwoxGpN63xc2ujZo-2B80cnn7epZFg8sdcMY0OewzeW-2FJM-3D_qyMo1CHoATN1sIwi3K1WPyowAQK6XjRE04c94kk06jzgvyn4mu0H6fVjWNU-2BQC0foAtcG39m5rGi6Pd59-2BW1SZC93730TJjJdOBnAjbR3eeGQgzU7nZK7kW8YFQSVxpWsIJpQAgLqRZCX-2FjUE1S8vSsQ-2BUGN-2BT47PGzWIuySVIW-2FtXsjM2kcL4bvV5TGpkb-2BULlIWu1bYMzocyYvXkwEX1IKxO8Gdnw7yWQuglH4TXA7cOyO6snqFbPQC2dNE6SAa4CxJPGmYctggnuLxu8oNQ-3D-3D" target="_blank"><span style="color: #1155cc; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">BOSU</span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> squatting our way through the week.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">But balance means more than just being able to stand on one leg, it also means being able to do what you love while making healthy choices at the same time. It means putting in the work and still finding time for <b>decompressing after a long day</b>. Or eating the <b>slice of pizza </b>but balancing it out with <b>the salad, or limiting yourself to 1 or 2 slices. </b>Or <b>finishing a 5 mile trail run </b>and <b>doing an hour yoga practice</b> at home when you can’t make it to the gym.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here are the 6 ways I stay balanced - what are yours?</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I make time for myself by <b>every morning, I get up and make my coffee. I then take an hour to check my emails and plan out what my day will consist of. Do I want to stay home and practice yoga, do I want to run the trails, or do I need to take a day off? My morning routine is my me time.</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My favorite me time is <b>when I'm running. Even if my fiancé is right next to me, I'm in my zone. I plug into my music and feel the rhythm of the run. I process all the jumbled thoughts in my head and find my balance.</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My rule when it comes to a balanced diet is <b>everything in moderation! This does not mean having a small piece of pizza, ice cream and a soda though. It means now and then its okay for me to splurge, but stick to my whole grains, fruits and veggies the other days. I love huge salads! </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I make fitness a priority by<b> trying my best to make it a part of my daily routine. I don't want to be older and struggling to get fit or be healthy. I want to live my adult life knowing that I have done the best I can to take care of my body. </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">When I get stressed or overwhelmed, my go to is <b>curling in a ball and crying. LOL just joking! I do wish I could sometimes though! The thing that best calms me when I feel that way is deep breaths, a hug from my fiancé, or some sun salutations. </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">To help my family stay balanced<b>, we go for runs together and I post motivating things on forms of social media I use. My fiancé and I push each other to be our best and not to give up. He is one of the reasons I keep pushing myself and trying to be a better version of myself. </b></span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpTF1mEwdajgHIJDxf81OBB2z-X8ZsGjajt43zFd-pLtPb2MORMGe4jN8RXNOdmUdCTYD_npeT5VaAiofJ6j21AUiVZEVTCiwKXXz717o24DLL_1_BVlSH1LMxVx97GWtb2f1vxxVBipB7/s640/blogger-image--94908980.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpTF1mEwdajgHIJDxf81OBB2z-X8ZsGjajt43zFd-pLtPb2MORMGe4jN8RXNOdmUdCTYD_npeT5VaAiofJ6j21AUiVZEVTCiwKXXz717o24DLL_1_BVlSH1LMxVx97GWtb2f1vxxVBipB7/s320/blogger-image--94908980.jpg" width="180" /></a></div>
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<strong><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Bonus:</span></span></strong></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Here are my fave 6 moves to help improve your balance:</span></span></div>
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<li><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> <b>Warrior 3 (yoga)</b></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> <b>One leg squats</b></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> <b>One arm planks</b></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> <b>Lunge Jumps</b></span></span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> <b>Squats on Bosu Ball</b></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"> <b>Forearm Inversions (yoga)</b></span></li>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnVJYg-gy5TLvFexcNhzHCbULdPHi2LnL02bYaxNmA5A6dSXOgMS7ckVOsdhjKN-sHVkgVkJDEX7Bhg6w34nxv5IYaNsRUXSBs3MtnMPxieRwWSSYhyphenhyphenib5XDDErC5FhC6ZQkQHz20fvm1s/s640/blogger-image-1583530584.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnVJYg-gy5TLvFexcNhzHCbULdPHi2LnL02bYaxNmA5A6dSXOgMS7ckVOsdhjKN-sHVkgVkJDEX7Bhg6w34nxv5IYaNsRUXSBs3MtnMPxieRwWSSYhyphenhyphenib5XDDErC5FhC6ZQkQHz20fvm1s/s640/blogger-image-1583530584.jpg" /></a></div>
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Serenity On The Open Roadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04056864322118320877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8064629312182008654.post-2842507469661203522015-09-24T13:45:00.000-07:002015-09-24T15:34:44.960-07:00Briggs & Al's Run & Walk for Children's Hospital<div style="text-align: justify;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Saturday, was the first of my fall races. <a href="http://www.chwevents.org/site/TR/RunampWalk/General?pg=entry&fr_id=1130"> Briggs & Al's Run & Walk for Children's Hospital </a></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">is an annual event in Milwaukee. The event has been a tradition in Milwaukee for almost 40 years. The turnout is always huge- over 2000 people! The event itself is designed around the kids. There are no medals or top finisher awards at this event. Prior to race start, there is a lot to do! Champions Breakfast for the champion kids, mascots to take pictures with, local school bands playing music, free coffee, and lots of people coming together for a great cause. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">To get to the starting line, we parked at the finish line and took one of the 40+ shuttle buses being provided. We had decided we'd rather walk to the bus before the start then walk to our car after the race. We had done that at our half marathon and it was one of the longest walks we'd ever taken (not literally, but it physically felt like that). The walk to the bus was a bit brisk and overcast, but that was a good hour prior to the start. By the time the race started it was 60s and sunny! When we got to the bus drop, we did a bathroom stop. I then grabbed a free cup of coffee and we walked toward the front of the starting line. Of course, I made us take a ton of selfies together :)</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taking the Shuttle Bus</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The wheelchair race started at 10:15 and the runners started at 10:30 with the Elites being at the front. Elites are the only ones with different race bibs that distinguish their level. The starting corals started at 6min miles and back. The race corals weren't monitored and I wanted to be close to the start. My fiancé and I ran into one of his best friends about 10 minutes before the start and all lined up together. Less then 2 minutes into the race, our friend took off follow a "cute girl". </span><span style="font-family: Verdana;"><br /></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ahzANy8WYE9nyOIw7NuUZpV40-Fn3yUWPBlhqOuCNXQ9d-MonDMjBRpV6QDfnNHhQO6J-cxwkG5c5ItDXEGozR3_M2rHYd1kOE6mtO2vmXX_pPhqqXBs7_UW2t5-wDUEA0kAGuZOA-x2/s640/blogger-image-555116550.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7ahzANy8WYE9nyOIw7NuUZpV40-Fn3yUWPBlhqOuCNXQ9d-MonDMjBRpV6QDfnNHhQO6J-cxwkG5c5ItDXEGozR3_M2rHYd1kOE6mtO2vmXX_pPhqqXBs7_UW2t5-wDUEA0kAGuZOA-x2/s320/blogger-image-555116550.jpg" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7ExUh4HTZT4Fd6lPM2dk3NLVOq0JJkaCRidgF_lwBbohW6NIKyJjiS7qjbadoR0k9YOKaAi-A8DHc1uTd6zPKKkBlBpNj8Z_k8RC1TMDVUrQMVuHQk8JPYsZfQMFVCUVGRDPFOxbQzeHG/s640/blogger-image-65960767.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg7ExUh4HTZT4Fd6lPM2dk3NLVOq0JJkaCRidgF_lwBbohW6NIKyJjiS7qjbadoR0k9YOKaAi-A8DHc1uTd6zPKKkBlBpNj8Z_k8RC1TMDVUrQMVuHQk8JPYsZfQMFVCUVGRDPFOxbQzeHG/s320/blogger-image-65960767.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">The start of the race is straight down Wisconsin Ave with a bit of a hill decline to an incline. The first mile I could tell we were taking it out a bit fast and Id rather run smart then fast. I finished the race not feeling very sweaty or out of breath. I probably could've gone a lot harder, but my mental game got in the way in the end and I was struggling. The first mile I was all smiles and feeling great. I hit <b>mile 1 in 7:48. </b>Going into mile 2, we were running past the top of the art museum and rounding on to Prospect Ave with another small incline. That incline hit my legs. I felt tired and slowed down my pace. I had to hit my fiancé's arm a few times during the race to let him know I was falling behind otherwise he would have just kept going. He is a strong runner and can hold his speed for more miles than I can hold mine. I'm a sprinter, but he definitely has the strength and endurance to run long distances. The end of mile 2 had us running down Layfette hill and turning onto Lincoln Memorial Drive past Collectivo. I hit <b>mile 2 in 8:15. </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Mile 3 took us straight down Lincoln Memorial Drive. I could feel my legs getting tired. The first photographer of the race was during mile 3. My fiancé and I threw our arms around each other and flashed the "hang loose" hand sign (its his thing) with big smiles. I hit <b>mile 3 in 8:33. </b>Mile 4 was the same. Except this is the mile I felt like I was dying and definitely slowed my pace. I refused to walk even though I desperately wanted to. I'm just not in as good of shape as I used to be. I told my fiancé he could go run ahead of me, but got the answer I'm learning to accept- "No, I'm running with you". If he hadn't been by my side I would've given up. I kind of did mentally at this point. I just let people run pass me and didn't try to push myself harder. We saw another photographer right after the mile 4 marker. Mile 4 continued down Lincoln memorial drive. I hit <b>mile 4 in 9:09. </b></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Mile 5 was the homestretch! We turned off of Lincoln Memorial Drive and started running into the third ward. I felt myself give up at the beginning of that mile, and hitting the last 0.4 miles to go, I felt my motivation suddenly come back. I turned to the final stretch and began to pick up my pace, I think I threw off my fiancé on that, because next thing he knew I was taking off. There were 2 roads we had to run down to reach the finish line. As we turned onto the second, I got hit with a wave of defeat. The finish line was further down then I had thought and I was booking it. I slowed my pace to let myself mentally catch up to what I had expected and then we took off down the finish line together and finished hand in hand. I finished <b>mile 5 in 9:02.</b> </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Running to the Finish Line!</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Overall, I'm glad I ran and finished. This was the longest I have run, without stopping, since I started training again. I couldn't have finished without my fiancé by my side. I cant wait to do it all over again this weekend. I have trained 2 days this week so far- so slacking and not prepared to race 6.2 but I will go out there and have fun and do my best to not hold myself back from pushing myself. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">We Finished!!</td></tr>
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Serenity On The Open Roadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04056864322118320877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8064629312182008654.post-62392143167322624582015-09-19T15:11:00.001-07:002015-09-20T08:37:12.351-07:00Bulu Box Review #LoveBulu<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">This past month, I had the opportunity to review </span><a href="http://www.bulubox.com/" target="_blank"><b><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Bulu Box.</span></i></b></a><b><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></i></b><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> "</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><i><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">BULU BOX IS A MONTHLY BOX OF HEALTHY DISCOVERIES THAT WILL UPGRADE YOUR HEALTH"</span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></i></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><i>(Bulu Box Website).<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></i></span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Subscribers receive a new custom box each month filled with health, weight loss and nutrition samples from top brands. Each box comes with 4-5 samples- with the sample supplying enough of the product for the subscriber to decide if the product is a right fit for them.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">The box I received, had 10 items for me to sample:</span><br />
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<li>Urgent RX Upset Stomach - fast tummy relief</li>
<li>Martha Stewart Vegetarian Multi-Vitamin Gummies</li>
<li>Movit Energy Gummies</li>
<li>Nuvia Café - Nutrient rich instant coffee </li>
<li>Ovega-3 - Eco-Friendly Omega-3 chewable</li>
<li>BPI Sports FunnBar - Protein Chews </li>
<li>Naked Wines Vouched: $100 off gift card</li>
<li>Mushroom Matrix Nrg Matrix Energy</li>
<li>Hemp Foods- Hemp Pro 70 Chocolate Protein Supplement</li>
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<li>MealEnders Signaling Lozenge</li>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">The first sample I tried from my Bulu Box was the Nuvia Café instant coffee. Most instant coffees are crystalized- this one is a smooth powder; pouring the packet into my coffee cup had me filled with excitement for this cup of coffee. Finishing my cup left me sad and wishing I had more. By far, the best instant coffee I have ever had. One awesome feature, and a reason I #LoveBulu, is Bulu Box has all the products they send samples of available for purchase on their website as well. There are two kinds of <a href="http://www.bulubox.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=Nuvia+Cafe" target="_blank">Nuvia Café instant coffee</a> you can purchase. I sampled the regular instant, but there is also a "Trim Gourmet Skinny Coffee". </span></div>
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The next two items I tried from my box were the <a href="http://www.bulubox.com/moveit-energy-gummies.html#.Vf3P3zZRHIU" target="_blank">Movit Energy Gummies</a> and the <span id="goog_1238086059"></span><a href="http://www.bulubox.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=Mushroom+Matrix+NRG+Matrix">Nrg Matrix Energy<span id="goog_1238086060"></span></a> I enjoyed both of these products. I used both on separate occasions before running. The Nrg Matrix Energy I used first. It was a small pouch to add to water. I drank about 30 minutes prior to going on a run. I actually had one of the best training runs I have had this month after drinking the Nrg Matrix Energy. I had the same results with the Movit Energy Gummies. I ate those 40 minutes prior to a training running and again had one of my better training runs this month. Both items had similar tastes to me- as someone who has tried many sports drinks / chews I found them to be in the same taste range as most others. The drink was tangy and the gummies had a dulled down fruit taste. I found both to be effective energy boosters and my workouts after use made me feel that these products did exactly what they are supposed to do- energize. One thing I loved about the Movit Energy Gummies, is that they have one of my favorite Bible passages on their labels (in picture below).</div>
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Next I tried the <a href="http://www.bulubox.com/catalogsearch/result/?q=mealenders">MealEnders Signaling Lozenges.</a> These were interesting. I was given 8 lozenges to try (2 of each flavor). The flavors they come in are: Citrus, Cinnamon, Chocolate Mint, and Mocha. I enjoyed the flavor of the Chocolate Mint. Each lozenge has a soft outer coating of the flavor which leads to a hard candy. I did not enjoy the cinnamon- I spit it out after a few seconds. The other two flavors I could give or take. The lozenges leaves my tongue feeling tingly and as though every taste bud had been activated. The also did end my hunger. I would try these again, but I'm not sure I would purchase them, id rather drink a glass of water or hot tea to fill me up. I could write a review for every product, but those were the ones that I enjoyed the most.<br />
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The Martha Stewart Vitamins I was very excited about. I had just run out of prenatal vitamins, and these have folic acid and are vegetarian. Plus they are gummies, just like the prenatal I take. I thought these would be a great fill in until I could get to the store and buy a replacement. However, upon opening the vitamins I was struck with a rancid smell. I decided to ignore the scent and try a gummy vitamin- instant regret. I spit it out immediately. I do not recommend theses vitamins. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS_YTztwSJaBVO6UHDVzJk-GLATVef9pOfeshPoQzQ_z2OoT1WkTDOQC-iWDediBrcmkGuZC8cHHYBW8TzRLv76bgzzYKSkPaYmX4hpkwt3J80sS5GfupZTLQJsj4bBPlwUNrR9OYq54hr/s640/blogger-image-703199049.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhS_YTztwSJaBVO6UHDVzJk-GLATVef9pOfeshPoQzQ_z2OoT1WkTDOQC-iWDediBrcmkGuZC8cHHYBW8TzRLv76bgzzYKSkPaYmX4hpkwt3J80sS5GfupZTLQJsj4bBPlwUNrR9OYq54hr/s320/blogger-image-703199049.jpg" width="240" /></a></div>
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Overall, I really enjoyed the Bulu Box I was sent to try. Id go as far as saying I #LoveBulu :)<br />
My favorite part of Bulu Box (besides being exposed to awesome new products that I may not have tried or even found on my own) is the Box itself! Filled with inspirational and motivation quotes and sayings! The box made me want to work towards my goals!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNZ3KPfhbDkKPaqjhHTwr7GDp9wdwaNQGlSKaIdnJ36jZMJGGZ4AjfTR5-tFEPX9Ww4AKc9n89FMnKiPNcyeUg9vDm_QleDNlCKvJUwpZSB8arSJS4eeh0iE565Vx5cUX68mGWPlRwulUk/s640/blogger-image--643994677.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNZ3KPfhbDkKPaqjhHTwr7GDp9wdwaNQGlSKaIdnJ36jZMJGGZ4AjfTR5-tFEPX9Ww4AKc9n89FMnKiPNcyeUg9vDm_QleDNlCKvJUwpZSB8arSJS4eeh0iE565Vx5cUX68mGWPlRwulUk/s320/blogger-image--643994677.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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I definitely look forward to subscribing to Bulu Box in the future and having them make a customized box designed towards my fitness/health goals with products that would be best for me to sample, and hopefully continue to order. If you would like to subscribe too, which I highly recommend, use my promo code: SWEATPINK for 50% off a 3-month subscription!! <br />
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Until Next time:<br />
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"Make Today Ridiculously Awesome" (Bulu Box Box)</div>
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Serenity On The Open Roadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04056864322118320877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8064629312182008654.post-65543630781087030182015-09-17T05:04:00.002-07:002015-09-17T08:28:26.727-07:00Mid Week<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">You know those mental blocks I've talked about before? Well last week, combine mental blocks with feeling nauseous and non stop exhausted, and that's how my week was. I didn't run a single day last week. I spend most of my time alternating from my bed to my couch and even had to call in sick to work (i also passed out that afternoon- so work was definitely not an option). I think it was a lack of hydration, allergies, poor nutrition and fatigue from actually training the week prior. I took a lot of time off from consistent training, so my body was kind of confused as to what the heck was going on. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">This week, its a different story! I worked all weekend, and was still feeling tired, so there was no running/working out of any sort happening. Monday, I got back in action. I waited for my fiancé to get home from work so we could run together. I used to really struggle having a running partner- i would feel like i was being judged if I wasn't holding a 6'-6'30" pace the entire time or any of the time, like I had to compete with the person training with me. Now, I love running with him!! I think it helps that he has told me 100 times he doesn't care how fast we run, if I'm having a bad day and want to walk, if i want to sprint- he just wants to run with ME. Having him by my side when i feel like giving up motivates me to keep going. More then half the training runs I've done this month, he has been by my side. And, all of those runs, I would've given up halfway through if I'd been running alone. No, I'm not running high mileage right now, but the miles I am running, those are miles that are getting me back into shape, so I have my struggles right now. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Anyways, that aside, training this week has been moderate, not great, not horrible. I've also gone back to my yoga mat and can feel my core and upper body strengthening as I'm able to hold certain poses (i still cant hold them very long) that i was struggling with even getting. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Monday's run was 3.00miles at a 9'45"pace. Total time being 29:14.6 </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Mile 1: 9'40" Mile 2: 9'03" Mile 3: 10'32" Overall, i was happy with this run, now that i look back on it. Initially, i was upset with myself. I felt a lot faster then i had been running. I also felt that i held back on myself at time. Mile 2, i could feel the difference in speed. I knew i had increased my pace- i thought, having fresh legs after a week off, that my pace was in the 7 min range, but i was wrong. After finishing the run, i needed to stop at 3 miles and walk the rest of the way home. I actually had to sit down when we finished because i got dizzy, tunnel vision and was pretty close to passing out. I had trouble forming thoughts and formulating words. Pretty sure my fiancé was freaked out, but he just had me rest and then held hands with me as we walked back home. I hadn't hydrated during the day, and again, was low on proper nutrition. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Tuesday's run was 4.00 miles at a 10'27" pace. Total time being 41:48.6 </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Mile 1: 12'26" Mile 2: 9'29" Mile 3: 10'24" Mile 4: 9'29"</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">This run had difficulties- which you can see from my mile times. At 0.7 miles, (yes, not even one mile in) i was walking. I had my fiancé take a lap (we run around a lake near us- each lap is exactly .50 of a mile) without me so i could clear my head (i also let my watch continue to run-thus the 12min mile of which i stood there for 4 or so of the minutes). Mile 2 i finally found my pace but entering into mile 3, i needed to walk again. My legs weren't tired, i wasn't out of breath, i just couldn't get my head on straight. My fiancé reminded me that i was doing more then the person sitting on their couch and that i could finish this run. So we did 2 more laps around the lake and finished strong. I felt my motivation creep back and felt at ease with him running by my side. I wanted to get in 4 (getting him to 4.5) miles, so once i hit that mark, i decided to stop and walk the remaining half mile home. Overall, i cant complain. Its not my best run, the mental games were strong, but i ended my run beating the thoughts in my head that were holding me back. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Wednesday's run 3.02 miles at a 7'58" pace. Total time being 24:04.9</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Mile 1: 8'32" Mile 2: 8'11" Mile 3: 7'12" This run had no direction when i started. Within the first 0.30 miles, i had mentally changed my route 3 times. I hadn't even left my neighborhood and i had no plan. I decided to forgo running around the lake and get some hill training, but then changed my mind, deciding to run down the hills instead of up them. I was craving speed! I zig zagged around for about the first half mile trying to figure out what i was doing and once i decided on my route started to visualize the race i have this Saturday. I have never run this race, but, i know the route by heart as its part of a commute i made daily for over a year and also half of it is part of a route i ran for 3 years. Visualizing this race is what helped me to negative split. I pretended i was running the finish. I didn't let the mental games get in my way. I told myself, run to that tree, then to the next tree, see you feel great don't stop now. By the time i finished, i was dripping sweat and felt exhausted, but i felt good. It was a great run for me. I ran alone, just me and my music, and i was in my zone. I have a good feeling about the run this weekend. My goal is not to win- i know- that's a huge change for me- but my goal is run with my fiancé by my side and to hold 7'30"-8'15" minute miles. Not my fastest, but steady pace and consistent. I think with the adrenaline and the crowd of people i will be able to zone out, get pumped and just run! I do want to place myself near the starting line so i don't have to battle through people. I'd rather get passed by runners, then try to battle through a crowd and run a pace slower then the one I had intended for myself.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">I have one more run to get in before resting on Friday and racing on Saturday. This Saturday, i am taking an approach that i have not done before- i will be running a warm up prior to racing. Normally i stretch and do some sprints and a few exercises to get my heart rate up, but i never have run a warm up. With my knees being in bad shape, I've found that at about 1 mile into my runs, i don't feel the pain. The beginning of all my runs starts with me limping, so to skip that with this race, ill warm up prior so i can ease in my knees. Smart thinking, I know. Lol :) </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Until next time: </span></div>
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Serenity On The Open Roadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04056864322118320877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8064629312182008654.post-17798104135074046562015-09-14T06:39:00.008-07:002015-09-14T06:46:34.473-07:005 Things that make me #BosuStrong<div dir="ltr" style="color: #424242; font-style: normal; font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.25; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-top: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; text-align: left;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">I'm so excited that its time for the Sweat Pink #BosuStrong Challenge!! I've been excited about this challenge since I first found out about it! I use Bosu with all my clients and love working out with the Bosu! This challenge is going to be so much fun and to kick start it, here is a fun mad-lib I got from Sweat Pink!</span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> </span></div>
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<strong><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">5 THINGS THAT MAKE ME #BOSUStrong</span></strong></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Today I am embarking on a 4 week challenge with </span><a href="http://www.bosu.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">BOSU</span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"> and Sweat Pink to prove to the world that I am #BOSUSTRONG. Being #BOSUSTRONG means I make fitness part of my everyday life, at home, out and about, and with my friends and family. I will squat, mountain climb, plank, push-up, lunge, <b>jumping jack </b>and <b>pull-up </b>my way to a stronger and <b>fitter </b>body. And I will encourage <b>Paul @SizzleBean</b> and <b>Lizzie @pantech2 </b>to join me on this fun journey because we are one big, happy #FitFamily.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Being #BOSUStrong is not just about movement, sweat, or even owning a </span><a href="http://www.bosu.com/" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">BOSU</span></a><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">, its about being a leader, an inspiration to others, and sharing my own fitness journey with others. It’s about not letting <b>insecurities </b>and <b>fear </b>stand in my way of sweating and getting strong! The 5 things that make me #BOSUStrong are:</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">My strong <b>support system. I have an amazing fiancé and best friend, both who are always encouraging my fitness journey!</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"><br></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">My ability to<b> overcome obstacles and persevere. I have gone through a lot and my fitness has stayed strong and kept me motivated to keep on keeping on!</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"><br></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">My love for <b>fitness and motivating/inspiring others! I #LiveForFitness ! I love being a personal trainer and helping others to reach their goals. </b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"><br></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">My healthy <b>lifestyle. I don't drink, I quit smoking, and I make fitness part of my everyday routine. My fiancé and I are very healthy eaters and are constantly encouraging and supporting each other :)</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><b><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"><br></span></b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">And my <b>motivated mindset. My willpower and my goals. I am a goal maker and I plan to achieve what I set my mind to! AND you can do the same! I have faith in all of you!</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: 400; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">So I want to know - are you #BOSUStrong? Copy and paste the above, fill it in and make it your own and then tag me in it and share with your friends! Let’s all be #BOSUSTRONG</span></span><b></b><i></i><u></u><sub></sub><sup></sup><strike></strike></div>
Serenity On The Open Roadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04056864322118320877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8064629312182008654.post-3864629643943507002015-09-11T11:20:00.000-07:002015-09-11T11:20:24.888-07:00Run Far<div style="text-align: justify;">
This morning, I was texting with one of my best friends and confided in her that I had been feeling a tad down the past week. She replied to me with exactly what I needed to hear, and it inspired me to write this post. </div>
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Her response was:</div>
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<b><i>"Run Far. Like as in exercising not running away from life"</i></b></div>
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I needed to hear that more then anything. My last post, I talked about how my week of training had been. This week, I still haven't hit the pavement. I've been feeling nauseous and exhausted all week. I've spent the week at home on the couch or in bed, binge watching Netflix. Talk about unproductive. </div>
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Having my friend say that to me, it lit a spark. She's right. What I need to do is run. When I run, I feel 1000 times better. When I'm stressed or anxious, running calms me down, allows me to sort through my racing thoughts and breathe easier. Running is a form of therapy for me. Running to me is also a form of meditation. Running, yoga, and swimming all have similar effects for me. Yoga allows me to breathe deep and focus on my breaths and the way my body flows; running and swimming, I focus on stride or strokes, breathing rhythms and am able to turn my mind off or take that time to sort through thoughts and emotions. </div>
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Not having run this week, I was not allowing myself the release of emotions and time to think- which I need. If I want to feel better, I need to run. Running is a huge part of my life and when I let running slip away, I lose a part of me. </div>
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With that being said, I'm off to run. I'm not sure how far or how long I will run. I'm don't know if ill go out and sprint 1 mile or run a slow 10 miles. I just know I will run. I will take the time to give my soul what it needs. </div>
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Unitl next time:</div>
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Serenity On The Open Roadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04056864322118320877noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8064629312182008654.post-37633715465135377992015-09-09T08:30:00.001-07:002015-09-09T08:30:08.179-07:00Week in Training<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Last week, i finally dedicated myself to running and got some training under my feet. Running is different for me right now then it used to be. I am still regaining my fitness after an extedned time period of not training. Remember when i used to run fast? <a href="http://swimnrun4life.blogspot.com/2013_06_01_archive.html" target="_blank"> Me too.</a> But i cant dwell on how i ran 5 and 6 min miles 2 years ago- in my training (not even racing). I am where i am because of who i am and what i have been through. I cant change the past, i can only work hard and move forward. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">That being said, this week was what i would call a success. I made a training plan and i stuck to it. I ran Monday-Saturday with Saturday being a recovery run. Sunday was a rest day. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">My milage is light right now and my pace is slow. Im rebuilding my strength and endurance and am becoming okay with not being where i used to be. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Monday: <b>Miles:</b> 3.00 <b>Pace: </b>9'02" <b>Total Time:</b> 27:10</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Tuesday: <b>Miles:</b> 3.12 <b>Pace:</b> 9'26" <b>Total Time: </b>29:31</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Wednesday: <b>Miles: </b>3.19 <b>Pace: </b>8'55" <b>Total Time: </b>28:25</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Thursday: <b>Miles: </b>3.13 <b>Pace: </b>8'55" <b>Total Time: </b>27:53</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Friday: <b>Miles: </b>4.02 <b>Pace: </b>8'17" <b>Total Time: </b>33:20</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Saturday: <b>(recovery run) Miles: </b>4.00 <b>Pace: </b>11'37" <b>Total Time: </b>46:28</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Saturdays run, as easy paced as it was, became my hardest run of the week. Thursday 's run felt the best for me. On Saturday, my legs felt heavy and dead. It was a struggle to keep myself going, but luckily I had my fiancé running with me to help me stay motivated. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">My goal is to keep building up my speed and lower my average pace by my race on the 19th. Paul and I are running <a href="http://www.chwevents.org/site/TR/RunampWalk/General?pg=entry&fr_id=1130" target="_blank">Briggs & Al's Run and Walk</a>. Its a local race that has been going on in Milwaukee for over 38 years supporting a wonderful cause. The race is a 8K (4.9 miles) and my goal is to finish in the top 20 women and run under 40 minutes. The following weekend is a 10K race and I would like to hold a 7'30" pace for that race, but in order to get there, I need to keep training. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Sunday was rest day. This Monday I woke up with the worst headache I have ever had. I was back in bed at 4pm and didn't get up til the next day. I did not run Monday. Tuesday, I was feeling exhausted and spent the night in eating pizza and watching Netflix with my fiancé. He left for a business trip this morning so we wanted to spend time together. Today, I need to get in a run before I head to work, but I'm struggling to keep my eyes open as I type this. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">I just need to keep my eyes on my goals and put in the work. I cant let the hard work I put in last week be for nothing. Time to change my attitude, do some jumping jacks and wake myself up!</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Verdana;">Until next time: </span><br />
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Serenity On The Open Roadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04056864322118320877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8064629312182008654.post-75881137937995141002015-09-04T11:07:00.004-07:002015-09-04T13:58:58.186-07:00Make a plan and chase your goals<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Being a part of the #SweatPink family and a #SweatPink Ambassador, I'm sent weekly emails with blog ideas or prompts for things to post on my blog, twitter and Instagram. Its a great way for me to have something to write about and post things to connect with other #SweatPink ambassadors. I've been sitting here the last two weeks, thinking about the prompt sent out to us for the weeks of aug 24-sept 4. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">Why have I been sitting on this one for so long? Because it required a lot of thought and re-evaluating of my goals, where I'm at right now, and where I want to be.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">here is the actual prompt:</span><span style="font-size: x-small;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-small;"><b><i>1). Take a moment to re-examine your goals [if you haven't written them down yet, go for it now!]. How do you plan to put the success of these goals into action? Are you making changes to your eating habits, allocating more time for the gym, running or other workouts, or are you joining a new group class?</i></b></span></span><span style="font-family: Times, "Times New Roman", serif; font-size: x-small;"><b><i> </i></b></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">As you can see, its one that requires some thought. So without further to do, lets look at my re-examination. :)</span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">I'm a goal orientated person, but my goals are always changing, I'm always jumping from one thing to the next. I don't write them down, and being a list person, I'm surprised I haven't. 2015 is more than halfway over, and while I have achieved some small goals I haven't really sat down to look at what my real true goals for myself are. In past blogs, you've read about some struggles I've gone through and how I am getting back on the grind with taking positive steps towards goals- but what are these goals exactly? </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">I've made a list of 10 (yes 10) goals for the end of 2015- and most are goals that can be carried out long term as well. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"><b>2015 GOALS:</b></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"><b>1)</b> Participate in a running race every month til the end of the year</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"><b>2) </b>Run a minimum of 70 miles every month</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"><b>3) </b>Start attending swim practices regularly with my Masters Team <a href="http://www.ebsc.org/Home.jsp?team=wsesc" target="_blank">#EBSC</a></span></span><span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"><b><br />4)</b> Cut out caffeine and soda from my diet</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"><b>5)</b> Cut out processed sugars and foods completely</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"><b>6) </b>Bike a minimum of 3 days a week as cross training - swimming 2 days a week- running 6- yoga 3</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"><b>7) </b>Deepen my Yoga practice and achieve inversions that I have been struggling with / handstands</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"><b>8) </b>Grow my personal training business and take on more clients</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"><b>9) </b>Better time management</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"><b>10) </b>Continue to grow as a better person and encourage others to do the same</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">Now that I have my goals, I need to take action to start seeing them achieved. I can't make a goal and expect it to just happen. I need to take action and work hard to see these goals achieved. What does that look like for me? Well, I need to hold myself accountable for starters. Getting up early and hitting the road is the best way for me to get in a run for the day. I have the privilege of only working a few days a week, and most of those days are evenings and weekends- leaving my mornings and afternoons completely free- giving me the opportunity to take the necessary actions to achieve my goals. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">The steps necessary for me to achieve my goals are actually quite simple. Get up and take action. Don't let my head keep me from saying yes to working out. I am fortunate that I have a team for swim practice- that helps push me to do more in a workout then I would by myself. I have a bike trainer in my living room, so I can bike for an hour every morning while I watch some mindless reality show. And when it come to running- I have a fiancé who has become a runner and we hold each other accountable with our training. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">I am registered for 2 races this month, and one next month (October). That leaves 2 more months to find races- that's an easy goal. There is a "drumstick dash" on thanksgiving day that my fiancé and I are planning to run and December we will just have to fins a race- I think there is a hot cocoa 5K that month. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">Better time management for me is a work in progress, but it also starts with getting up in the morning and being proactive. I am a huge list person and use my calendar every day- so I just need to plan things accordingly. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">Deeping my Yoga practice is something I need to definitely hold myself accountable for. The gym I go to has yoga classes a few times a week so I need to look at those and start attending. I'm also attending a class at a yoga studio in my area later this month about inversions. Its a 2 hour class that is focused on hips and core to help deepen arm balances. I'm really excited about this class and about getting deeper into my yoga practice. I have distanced myself from my practices. This winter I was practicing an hour every day and lately I'm lucky if I do 1 practice a week. I have the time for the practices, but my time management and mental state have kept me from being proactive and practicing. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">Diet changes are ones that seem hard, but once you start doing are actually pretty easy. I eat very healthy to start but now and then I love my ice cream and pizza- which there are healthy versions of or alternatives to. And cutting caffeine is not that huge a challenge. I drink coffee every morning and am starting to cut back and hopefully eliminate that from my diet as well as soda. I'm a sucker for a diet coke and I am trying to replace that with sparkling water. I have an obsession with Coconut flavored La Croix and will hopefully cut soda out completely very soon. I used to not drink soda or eat sugar and I felt great. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">To grow my personal training business, I need to put myself out there. I am starting to be more present in social media with my business, and I am hoping that word of mouth can help bring me clients. I am asking friends and family members to refer people looking for a trainer to me as well. Small steps can lead to big things. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">My goals seem like a lot when I look at them, but when I think about how I will achieve them, they are not that big a deal and definitely are achievable. My last goal of continuing to grow as a better person will happen as long as I continue to take responsibility for my actions, work my program of sobriety and practice living a life of less judging and more loving. How do I encourage others to do the same? By being a living example. I need to practice what I preach. </span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: transparent; color: black; font-variant: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">I'm excited to start taking my goals to the next level and cant wait to see how awesome 2015 finishes out for me!</span></span></div>
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</span></span>Serenity On The Open Roadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04056864322118320877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8064629312182008654.post-25235153888513904702015-09-02T12:01:00.001-07:002015-09-02T12:01:14.713-07:00My Other True Love<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Many of my readers and people who know me, know that running is a huge part of how I identify myself. I am known in the group of people I hang out with as "the runner". This past year, running and I took a bit of a break from each other. I still ran every month, but not with the passion or dedication I used to have. I did my St. Patricks Day 5K as well as my half marathon in June on no training. This August, I had a brief moment of passion and dedication to running- that lasted about week. Now, as I sit here drinking my post-run chocolate protein shake (made with almond milk and I added organic peanut butter) I am here to say, the passion is coming back. The dedication is starting to become apparent. Running is starting to become a loving relationship again. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">This has not been an easy few months for me and I wont pretend that life has been all rainbows and sunshine. While dealing with and sorting through some life situations, I let running fall to the back burner. And its stayed there for quite some time. My body quickly fell out of shape, yes I'm still toned and fit- I didn't stop working out completely- but my cardio endurance is basically at beginners level. There is nothing wrong with being a beginner, but going from running low 5 min miles and a high 4 min mile here and there to training at 8:30-10 min miles has been a bit defeating. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">Monday, I realized things needed to change. I have a training plan on the fridge, I stare at it daily- but I was only running 1 or 2 of the days out of the 5 a week I had planned for myself. My fiancé and I are registered for 2 races this month and another next month, with plans to continue to race through the winter- therefore, training needs to be happening. Monday, we started and we are holding each other accountable. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">Today, I didn't want to run. It would have been much easier to dwell on the past and how fast I used to be and let myself get depressed and sit on the couch and cry. But, I laced up, I got out there and I ran. Sure I ran at a slow (for me) pace, but I felt good, I negative split, my knees didn't hurt as bad as normal and most importantly I DID IT! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">I could cry about the past and where I am in comparison to the last few years and I could go the route of depression, <b>OR</b> I can realize, like most things, results don't happen instantly and things take time and work. It takes 2 weeks to fall out of shape and 8 to get back into shape. My body needs to readjust, relearn, and rebuild to get back to the pace I once held. If I never get back that pace, that's okay too. I did a lot of damage to my body with overtraining the last few years. I have bad knees and they aren't going to get better overnight, and there is no guarantee they'll get better at all. But with dedication and putting in the work, I will see where I can go; I'll gain strength and endurance, and I will get stronger and faster. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">So today, I choose to not give up. I choose to hold on to my dreams and to chase them. I choose to set goals and to achieve them. And I choose to love- to love my body for what it can do and to love myself as I am. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">Until next time: </span></div>
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Serenity On The Open Roadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04056864322118320877noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8064629312182008654.post-59785912839317729432015-08-26T07:56:00.001-07:002015-08-26T08:09:00.723-07:00Get Your Freekeh-On<div style="text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">A few week ago, I was afforded the opportunity to review a product called Freekeh, by<a href="http://www.freekeh-foods.com/" target="_blank"> Freekeh Foods</a>. </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">What is Freekeh you ask, <a href="http://www.freekeh-foods.com/what-freekeh" target="_blank">click here to learn more</a>! I had my fiance go to their website and pick out some recipes that he would like to try and then we went shopping and got the ingredients for me to make everything. This is the recipe that I decided i would also like to try: </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><a href="http://www.freekeh-foods.com/recipes/mexican-freekeh-chili">http://www.freekeh-foods.com/recipes/mexican-freekeh-chili</a></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHYUjYtNHDeqOtG-hvqirgHYhhCOKorPE8jbnGXcgNsvba3I1qMKT3PdbM_5-B11Y7g-MRjX9qcRrHFJLUx4fJ1bG5Ix_fVNLLXJ75Rzv0p4oZ5o3sNk7-x9GarQI1oJx9GpmUf2lIFVAN/s640/blogger-image-2093478918.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="317" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgHYUjYtNHDeqOtG-hvqirgHYhhCOKorPE8jbnGXcgNsvba3I1qMKT3PdbM_5-B11Y7g-MRjX9qcRrHFJLUx4fJ1bG5Ix_fVNLLXJ75Rzv0p4oZ5o3sNk7-x9GarQI1oJx9GpmUf2lIFVAN/s320/blogger-image-2093478918.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=7490d27c7a&view=fimg&th=14f142894167870b&attid=0.2&disp=inline&realattid=6f536e9cf97b5750_0.3&safe=1&attbid=ANGjdJ8ov2oQecoD7lPdWc4CT3tRj3ot66xxADBXcdKht9taQO2oD_Ecrf8XTkd0gD8xgYE9lP4Rm4S1xobaLLRyxyb88uvEKKN7TQHfF_tQRNTkOIojMSW5iyfFFdQ&ats=1439393939099&rm=14f142894167870b&zw&sz=w1256-h565" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Displaying FullSizeRender.jpg" border="0" height="320" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=7490d27c7a&view=fimg&th=14f142894167870b&attid=0.2&disp=inline&realattid=6f536e9cf97b5750_0.3&safe=1&attbid=ANGjdJ8ov2oQecoD7lPdWc4CT3tRj3ot66xxADBXcdKht9taQO2oD_Ecrf8XTkd0gD8xgYE9lP4Rm4S1xobaLLRyxyb88uvEKKN7TQHfF_tQRNTkOIojMSW5iyfFFdQ&ats=1439393939099&rm=14f142894167870b&zw&sz=w1256-h565" width="240" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">However, i did modify it slightly to meet my tastes and it didnt turn out in the chili texture. Instead of garlic cloves, i used garlic salt. I did not measure the amount i used. I just sprinkled it in on the veggies as they were sauteing. Also, i precooked the freekeh so i didn't add any water to the mix. (thus, it had a solid base instead of a liquid base like most chili's). I sauteed all the veggies then added the tomatoes, beans, jalapeno, and tomato paste. Then, I stirred that all together and added the freekeh. Before stirring in the freekeh, i sprinkled fajita seasoning all over. (I used that instead of chili powder). Then i stirred in and let simmer for about 15 minutes. </span></div>
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<img alt="Displaying FullSizeRender.jpg" height="320" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=7490d27c7a&view=fimg&th=14f142894167870b&attid=0.3&disp=inline&realattid=6f536e9cf97b5750_0.5&safe=1&attbid=ANGjdJ91Ui-ic7_b0fuvrv_ZA5k31muR9sre995pNp4oB3H9MTreDHSEnh7MWRmocs3WhSysqoHYEOC9JR-N4xWn5pHWpoJ1tNbk19onDTz4Xm2IYy5xGefw7bOGBO0&ats=1439393939099&rm=14f142894167870b&zw&sz=w1256-h565" width="240" /></div>
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<a href="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=7490d27c7a&view=fimg&th=14f142894167870b&attid=0.4&disp=inline&realattid=6f536e9cf97b5750_0.7&safe=1&attbid=ANGjdJ8OvQCqTpfkJzXOZFnZYeRicy5TDKDMmm7e46Zz5zBaXBRvdt3vLizT3ivQ3iRJtdlhN061fQ_LEeCdKrH7GIGYeOFLTfeDQkXSc5GEwIn-8IYAWJWe350qC3E&ats=1439393939099&rm=14f142894167870b&zw&sz=w1256-h565" imageanchor="1"><img alt="Displaying FullSizeRender.jpg" border="0" height="320" src="https://mail.google.com/mail/u/0/?ui=2&ik=7490d27c7a&view=fimg&th=14f142894167870b&attid=0.4&disp=inline&realattid=6f536e9cf97b5750_0.7&safe=1&attbid=ANGjdJ8OvQCqTpfkJzXOZFnZYeRicy5TDKDMmm7e46Zz5zBaXBRvdt3vLizT3ivQ3iRJtdlhN061fQ_LEeCdKrH7GIGYeOFLTfeDQkXSc5GEwIn-8IYAWJWe350qC3E&ats=1439393939099&rm=14f142894167870b&zw&sz=w1256-h565" width="240" /></a><span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">After my "Chili" had simmered and cooked for 15 minutes, it was ready to be served! My fiancé loved it! I really liked that I hadn't added the extra water and had cooked my <a href="http://freekeh-foods.com/" target="_blank">Freekeh</a> prior to adding it to the mix, it made a thicker consistency and was enjoyable to eat. My fiancé compared it to his mom's stuffed peppers- which is one of our favorite dishes to eat! I thought it even tasted better then the stuffed peppers! Needless to say, we #<a href="http://freekeh-foods.com/buy-freekeh-online" target="_blank">LoveFreekeh</a> and are adding #Freekeh to our menu and plan to enjoy it a few times a month! I was extremely satisfied with the product, and love that Freekeh is organic and healthy! I used to be a huge brown rice fan, but #<i>Freekeh has up to three times the fiber and protein found in brown rice, and fewer calories than quinoa and white rice. Freekeh is a great choice to use in recipes you already enjoy, from salads, to soups, to main dishes—the cook times are comparable to brown rice, so it’s easy to choose Freekeh! </i>(from <a href="http://fitapproach.com/?v=116a5139b5d0" target="_blank">fitapproach</a> campaign description).</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">I still have the<a href="http://freekeh-foods.com/buy-freekeh-online/rosemary-sage-freekeh" target="_blank"> Rosemary Freekeh </a>to try and am very excited to explore that flavor palate! :) I also had the opportunity to share some #Freekeh with a friend and sent a package to my mom! She is always looking for new recipes and healthy foods to try out and is very excited about receiving her package of Freekeh and I'm sure she will #LoveFreekeh</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana; font-size: x-small;">Overall I give Freekeh and A+ in my book and am so happy to have had the opportunity to give it a try! I cant wait to get my freekeh on again! </span></div>
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Serenity On The Open Roadhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04056864322118320877noreply@blogger.com0