PR

1) to run your best time in a race of a specific distance (personal record)


As I mentioned in a previous post -- we had a series of three 10ks that we were set to run in prep for our first half. While training in longer runs, I have found that I really like 10ks and in doing three organized races it has given me the chance to PR in this specific distance.

To recap, I ran the Snohomish Women's 10k on May 18th finishing in 59:19. Then it was on to the Emerald City 10k and lastly the Shore Run.

Roz and I signed up for the Emerald City 10k for three reasons: 1) the course is a 10k version of our half (running around Lake Union, starting and ending at Gas Works Park), 2) we found a SUPER good deal on Zozi (its like Groupon for Outdoorsy people) and 3) the medals looked SWEET (#questformedals)!

The Emerald City run was on a overcast morning on May 24th -- not the most beautiful day, but perfect running weather. The course was a feast for the eyes, as you always had a view of the lake over your left shoulder and it was mostly flat. We ran into some hills around mile 5 which took some strength (and slowed us down a bit) but was good to know for the future when we would run into this on our half. We ended with a time of 1:00:22, averaging 9:44 per mile.

The packet pickup was easy and convenient, the shirts were hilariously awesome, the course was flat with a challenge at the end, and post race celebration was fun! I would definitely recommend this race -- maybe next year I will give the 15k a go! 

The last run of our 10k series was the Shore run, on June 6th. I was really excited for this run as I know many people who have completed it and raved about the course. The only negative here is that there was no medal -- but the shirt is a really nice performance tee. 

The course was unlike any run I have done in the past, as you start at one park and run along the shore to finish at another park. It is great because you don't encounter "turn-around syndrome" where you are watching runners on their way back as you are still on your way out (trust me, it kills your mojo). Additionally the views from this course are STUNNING. I didn't think you could beat the beauty of Lake Union, but this course gave the Emerald City 10k a run for its money (pun intended). 

Overall, the course was flat and fast -- the only "hill" was a stretch of incline which was not as brutal as the short steep hills in the Emerald City 10k. I ended up rocking the Shore Run with a PR of 57:51, with an average of 9:30 per mile pace! I am very happy with my time, pace, and progress!

I am so thankful that training in distance has turned me on to 10ks. I am looking forward to finding more races in this distances and as I work to be a stronger running I hope to have a future full of PRs! 

HIGH FIVE

1) to move or gesture in celebration or greeting in which two people slap each other's open palm with their arms raised
2) greet with a high five

Happy National Running Day! 

In honor of this day, it seems appropriate that I finally get around to talking about the 10k I ran recently: the Snohomish Women's Run. This was the first 10k in a series of three that we have planned before our half -- you know, to keep our training honest. This run was also the first 10k race I have completed and I must say, I really enjoyed it! Not as long as a 15k but not as short as a 5k...juuuuuuust right! It was during this run, I was reminded why I run...

I will be honest, sometimes I run for the goodies (cute bibs, quality shirts, medals, etc.) and I was initially drawn to this run because it had an awesome finishers' medal. But I am glad that I signed up for this run for so many other reasons. This was inaugural Snohomish Women’s Run and other than not having enough shuttles to transport people to/from parking/event locations, everything else seemed to go off without a hitch. A beautiful, flat course out in the country -- exactly what I was looking for!

This was my first all-women event and I really liked the atmosphere. There were super fit racers, moms, pregnant ladies (who ran faster than me), teenagers, grandmothers -- you name it! Seriously, it was quite the spectrum. But we were all there because wanted to push ourselves and we all joined together in this community of runners to do so. 

My all-time favorite moment was in my 4th mile of the race. The course was an out and back loop. As we were on our back route, we crossed paths with those in the beginning of their race. Someone stood out to me: a woman running alone, who was looking exhausted. As I watched her jog, I couldn't help but be proud of the hard work she was putting in. She didn't make excuses like "I could never run a 10k" or "I am tired" or "I don't have a workout buddy". It didn't matter how fast she was going because she was beating everyone who was on the couch at home. She put one foot in front of the other and didn't stop. She didn't over-think it, she just keep going. As we were getting close to passing each other I felt compelled to let her know I was rooting for her -- so I ran across the the course towards her, gave her a high five, and she gave me a huge smile.

I run because I believe in a life of fitness. 
I run because it strengthens not only my mind but my body. 
I run to encourage others -- because I turned "I could never do that" into "I will conquer that". 

Additionally, the Snohomish Women's Run's charity partner is Domestic Violence Services of Snohomish County which is a cause that definitely is worth supporting. I had many sorority sisters that volunteer for the Domestic Violence Services in Hillsdale County, so it made me feel as though it was my chance to help the cause. 

All-in-all I had a great experience (I ran in 59:19). We had a blast exploring Mukilteo at our packet pick-up the day before and enjoyed an amazing brunch after our race at Arnie's (go there...seriously). This run makes me look forward to my next two 10k's and then my half! Until then I will keep running and keep giving HIGH FIVES!

CLIMB

1) to ascend, go up, or get to the top of, especially by the use of the hands and feet or by continuous or strenuous effort
2) to rise slowly by or as if by continued effort
3) to ascend or rise
4) to slope upward
5)to ascend by twining or by means of tendrils

Now that I have officially wrapped everything up with the BIG CLIMB (every last thank you is in the mail!) -- it is time to FINALLY give a recap of the event. 

Last month marked the third year I participated in the BIG CLIMB, as we celebrated my Uncle Tiger's "3rd Birthday". Team Uncle Tiger was bigger and better than ever this year -- and my heart was seriously exploding with love. 

This year brought some new faces (Jo shared the position of captain with me and with her help we had a team of TEN!) and faster times! After last year, I was a bit nervous about beating my time. The first year I hustled up in 16 minutes, then last year I devoted time to actually training -- which resulted in a time of 14:30 (just 30 seconds slower than Sebastian!). Cutting almost two minutes from my time was a big jump -- but this year I have been training consistently (shout out to my co-workers that walking 14 flights with me every day to help me prep!) and working out harder/smarter, which resulted in a PR at 13:26! Phew! What a relief...until next year...

This year was my absolute favorite year of participating in this event. I loved getting to share my Uncle's story with new people on the team who are not only inspired by LLS' mission -- but are climbing to celebrate someone in their own life who has been affected by blood cancer. My mom came to support this year and it meant so much to me to have her there. It was truly special to share the event with my mom, have her experience the awesome energy in the building and have her meet all of Team Uncle Tiger, which is a gift to her sister's husband.

After the climb, we put together a little surprise package to send off to Uncle Tiger. When he received it, he emailed me this note: 

"Hey guys:

The 'surprise' arrived yesterday.  Thank you so much.  I will frame the poster and hang it in my office.  I'm hoping to wear the [Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's 'Survivor'] shirt to my oncologists office in March of 2015 so he can see what a great job you have all done to support his efforts. Thanks again for all you do. 'One day at a time.'
Uncle Tiger"

Receiving this email further cemented the reason I do the BIG CLIMB. Climbing up 1,311 stairs is no easy feat -- but as my chest aches, my heart throbs in my ears, and my quads cramp up, I think of the journey my Uncle went on, to death's doorstep and back to a strong, healthy life. There is absolutely nothing harder than that. And until every story is one of success, I will continue to CLIMB.

PS. If you are interested in participating in the BIG CLIMB next year, whether on the climbing or racing side -- Team Uncle Tiger would LOVE to have you. Leave a comment with a your contact email and I will touch base with you. The event sells out quickly, so I want to make sure you are up-to-date with happenings. 

ENDURE

1) to hold out against; sustain without impairment or yielding
2) to bear without resistance or with patience
3) to admit of; allow
4) to continue to exist; last
5) to support adverse force or influence of any kind; suffer without yielding; suffer patiently
6) to have or gain continued or lasting acknowledgment or recognition, as of worth, merit or greatness

If you are an avid VERBS reader (Hi Mom!), you may recall my love/hate/growing relationship with running. If so, you will be just as surprised as I am at this post. 

Last year I shared my 8k experience. It was the first time I ran a race longer than a 5k and the first time I really had to run alone. Despite the fact I wasn't trilled about it as it was happening, I finished that run with a key take-away: "finding you are capable of more than you thought is a super cool feeling." Ever since that run, I've noticed a little voice in the back of my mind that keeps telling me to go further.

An 8k opening up the idea of running distance plus with a friend who loves to run equals me registering for a 15k. I figured I would have plenty of time to train (don't I always say that?) and it would be good for me to listen to that voice, try something new and test my endurance. 

As usual, the race snuck up on us and we were one week out. ONE WEEK and I had yet to see if I could even run 9 miles. So figuring we would have enough time to overcome any soreness in the coming week, we set out to endure 9 miles. 

This will sound crazy -- but this test run will remain as one of my all-time favorite runs, ever. Roz and I set out for Greenlake just before dusk approached (yes, I promise I ran with mace in my hand!). The welcoming Greenlake atmosphere was calming -- as I was a little nervous about what my impending run was going to feel like. Once we got down to the lake, we took off. The first three miles were a breeze (that distance I had trained for...). As we approached the spot where we began my legs felt stronger than ever and I was really excited-- I had never kept going past this point! The second time around (6 miles) felt solid. Running wasn't as easy, but my pacing felt good and sustainable -- I was being patient. I chose to signal for a quick 30 second walk. Big mistake. As we changed pace I could feel how heavy my legs had become over the first six miles. I knew I needed to finish the last 3 mile lap but I really did not want to pick back up. 

The last lap was hard and completely dark -- which was a beautiful sight! I had never run in the dark or seen Greenlake like this in the dark. I had to feel this run, not distract myself with sights. Mile 7 took all my mental strength to start running again, mile 8 brought a very slow pace, and mile 9 brought the pain. By the end of the run I was probably "running" slower than most people walk -- but I was still going. 

When we finished running, I was elated -- running (practically) the whole time. As we walked (read: hobbled) to the car, I couldn't believe we had done it! It wasn't the most beautiful form or the fastest time -- but I knew I could complete 9 miles! Then it was time to warm up, and celebrate with some Pho!

Race day came and I ran my firsk 15k (Hot Chocolate 15k to be exact): 5k split 32:06 / 10k split 1:06:09 / net time 1:37:29 (pace 10:28). It may have been slow and steady (on a terrible course and not ideal weather) but I did it! I was so thankful to have Roz running by my side (read: in front of me) and Sebastian waiting for me at the finish line -- those two rock my world. It definitely helped to reward ourselves with hot chocolate, fondue and then a breakfast feast! 

Just like the 8k opened up the idea of distance, the 15k opened up the idea of a half. If I can run 9 miles I can run 13.1, right (ok...that's a stretch)? So I would like to announce that Roz and I have signed up for the See Jane Run half marathon ("I run for chocolate and champagne)" in July! Before that I will also run the Seahawks 12k, Cosmic Run 5k and the Emerald City 10k. The quest for medals has begun!

If you have ever thought about testing yourself, do it! Sign up for an 8k, 10k, 15k, or half and see what you can ENDURE!

Ps. If you are wondering, the bib holder was a Christmas present from my sister and you can find them HERE!

CAPTURE

1) to take by force
2) to gain control of or exert influence over
3) to take possession of, as in a game or contest
4) to represent or record in lasting form

Today is April 1st -- April Fools' Day for all you pranksters. For me, this marks the start of second quarter, which means the first three months of 2014 have already flown by in the blink of an eye. For someone who loves to track things, the beginning of Q2 is the perfect time for me to check in on my new years resolutions:

Pray: I have shared prayer more often with my family as they have been driving up to come to Church with me as often as possible. 
Run, lift, and practice yoga: I have ran my first 15K and signed up for a half (more to come on both of those!). I have added AM lifting sessions multiple days a week to compliment my evening yoga classes.
Eat clean: The majority of my meals are paleo and still having a blast trying out new alternative recipes.
Save weekly: I have been sticking to the reverse plan for the 52 Weeks of Saving. If you haven't heard of it -- check it out here! It is so simple and you end with over $1,300 put away. 
Establish balance: This is not a goal that is easy measured, but I do feel like I have been keeping busy and allowing myself downtime. Also, I deleted the Facebook app from my phone for Lent -- which has really helped in balancing my time and phone usage. 
Nix the negative: That is where this post comes into play! Read on!
Travel near or far: Currently, I have a few "near" places on the calendar (Minnesota in June, Las Vegas in July, and California in August). Now I want to focus on the "far". 

Looking back on the first three months of the year -- I am really proud of how I have maintained my focus on my resolutions and I want to keep it up! This brings me to the #100happydays challenge I just read about. 

All this challenge involves is capturing a photo of something that has made you happy each day. Surprisingly, the website notes that 71% of people who tried to complete this challenge failed, attributing a lack of time as the main for the not completing the challenge.

WAIT! WHAT? People actually think they don’t have time to be happy?

The converse side of my resolution "nix the negative" is to "promote the positive". It is all too easy to focus on what is missing, but what if we shifted our mind set and focused on what is going well? Conscious happiness, that is what will happen!

I am starting today and my 100th day will be on July 9th. Why don't you join in the challenge and make the time to welcome happiness into your life each day (click here!). I will complete my challenge via Instagram (using the hashtag #SMB100happydays) -- but you can do it with any format you desire. Can you do it? You are part of beautiful moments each and everyday, memories that ask you to CAPTURE. 

BREAK

1) to smash, split, or divide into parts violently; reduce to pieces or fragments
2) to infringe, ignore, or act contrary to
3) to fracture a bone of (some part of the body)
4) to lacerate; wound
5) to destroy or interrupt the regularity, uniformity, continuity, or arrangement of
6) to put an end to; overcome; stop
7) to discover the system, key, method, etc., for decoding or deciphering
8) to remove a part from a set or collection
9) to exchange for or divide into smaller units or components
10) to make a way through
11) to open or force one's way into
12) to better (a given score or record)
13) to disclose or divulge personally in speech or writing
14) to release (a story) for publication or airing on radio or television

When entering into 2013 -- I had no idea I would end the year assisting with two new records in the Guinness Book of World Records!

If you recall -- the first record I was part of was back in January with the Largest Snowball fight. According to Guinness: "The largest snowball fight was achieved by 5,834 participants at an event organized by Seattle Snow Day (USA) at Seattle Center, Washington, USA, on 12 January 2013. Each participant threw at least one snowball during the attempt, with proceeds benefiting the Boys and Girls Clubs of Seattle."

The second record was set this December when the 12th Man RECLAIMED the loudest crowd roar record. We originally held the record but then the Kansas City Chiefs beat us out -- so in true Seahawks fashion, we fought back. According to Guinness: "The loudest crowd roar at a sports stadium is 137.6 decibels and was achieved by fans of the Seattle Seahawks, aka "Volume 12 - The Seahawks 12th Man" (USA), at Centurylink Stadium in Seattle, Washington, USA, on 1 December 2013.The record was achieved with 12 mins 29 secs left to play in the second quarter during a 3rd down Seahawks defensive stand."

How fun right?! Both of the events were a blast and memories I won't forget!

Have you been part of any world records? What record do you want to BREAK?

CLEANSE

1) to make clean
2) to remove by or as if by cleaning

Please excuse the long awaited blog post!

You probably thought that I had gotten lazy, and threw in the proverbial towel of my "blog once a week" new years resolution -- but alas! I have in fact been blogging every day of the last 30 days, and it is now ready to share. 

For the last 30 days I have been doing the Whole30, an eating cleanse. I know of a few people who have completed it and they raved about how it changes your tastes, your relationship with food, and your life. I thought that seemed a big dramatic, but something kept tugging at me to give it a try. 

I thought it would be a great way to kick off 2014 (as my future resolutions are starting to take shape, and are looking to be very fitness related), but the heart tugging wouldn't let me put it off. I read the manifesto every morning for a week, and this stood out to me: "don’t put this off, not for one more day. If you give yourself excuses or reasons to delay, you may never begin. Do it now." So I did. 

Many people thought I was crazy and many people didn't understand my reasoning for doing this -- but it didn't matter, I knew what I wanted out of it and truth be told, I got what I wanted. 

Results I wanted to get out of the Whole30:

-Healthy relationship with food -- no over eating, no "rewards" because I "deserve it", no "comfort food" because I "needed it"

-Learn more about food, reading ingredients and researching healthy alternatives

-Become more comfortable in the kitchen, do not settle for whatever is quick (PS. I will share recipes...in a separate post!)

-Lose weight/see toning in the hard to target locations

Knowing I was going into this with healthy objectives and a support system, and with friends who jumped on the bandwagon with me -- I took pre-Whole30 pictures and hoped on the scale for my weigh in. Then I dove it!

(Be forewarned -- this is a looooong post. If you want, you can skip to the end for my final reflections! I promise I won't be offended!)

Tuesday 10/29, Day 1:
Breakfast: Fruit medley (strawberries, banana, and satsumas), black coffee
Lunch: Salad (homemade dressing, romaine, spinach, bell pepper, cucumber, tomato, broccoli, snap peas, avocado), mineral water, lemon
Dinner: Chicken, asparagus, water, lemon
Snacks: Nuts, satsumas
Workout: Hot yoga sculpt -- and it felt good!
Reflection: As I am only one day in, I am feeling good! Right now I am inspired by the fresh ingredients that I will be using for the next 30 days and the results that I am only 30 days away from. Additionally, I am thankful that I have two friends who are doing the Whole30 with me so we have an excellent support and accountability system.

Wednesday 10/30, Day 2:
Breakfast: two eggs, black coffee
Lunch: Mediterranean Salad (chicken breast, tomato, olives, cucumber, onion), water
Dinner: Chili Lime chicken patties, sweet potato fries, guacamole, mineral water, lemon
Snacks: Lots of fruit
Workout: Rest day
Reflection: Today was not bad at all. I found myself hungry multiple times through out the day, but I am glad I started cooking breakfast so I have something more substantial in my system. I was looking forward to dinner all day -- and my feast with my two girlfriends did not disappoint! I am finding new meals I really like!

Thursday 10/31, Day 3:
Breakfast: two eggs, black coffee
Lunch: Mixed veggie chicken salad, mineral water, lemon
Dinner: Left over Chili lime chick patty, fruit, water
Snacks: Nuts
Workout: Hot yoga sculpt
Reflection: Today I woke up dragging. I am feeling tired, slow, and bloated. I know this is to be expected, but it doesn't make it easier. As the day progressed I felt better and by lunch, the dragging feeling had dissipated. Unfortunately, I went home to a house that smelled of yummy pulled pork in the crock pot...that I couldn't eat. I will totally admit I cried a little. Then I went to yoga which was a nice reprieve because we were celebrating Halloween with a fun class. The only problem was looking in the mirror was getting me down as I saw my bloated stomach. How do you not think to yourself, "I am eating healthier than I have been and I look worse that I have looked. What am I doing this for?!" I was proud of myself for finishing class and I left feeling a bit more positive. But I definitely wanted the day to be over -- so I went home, ate and went to bed as quickly as possible. Phew, let it go. 

Friday 11/1, Day 4:
Breakfast: Fruit, black coffee
Lunch: Mixed veggie salad, two hard boiled eggs, mineral water, lemon
Dinner: Steak, onions & mushrooms, asparagus
Snacks: Salami, nuts, fruit
Workout: Rest day
Reflection: This morning was the first morning that I did not wake up STARVING and I am feeling less bloated, so we are off on the right foot! Things are feeling a bit more second nature, but there are definitely things I am missing. Thankfully dinner totally satisfied me! SGT and I BBQ'ed steaks and then sauteed up some veggies (I am thankful that although SGT isn't doing the Whole30 with me, he will he clean meals with me when we are together!). I went to bed happy, full, and proud that I made it through my first work week! Now comes the question, which will be harder the work days or the weekends?

Saturday 11/2, Day 5:
Breakfast: 2 bananas (terrible I know!), doppio espresso (and I liked it!)
Brunch: I had a brunch event, so I packed my plate with a bunch of fruit, some scrambled egg and sausage (I am not sure if they were compliant!)
Dinner: Ham, bell pepper, onion omelet
Snacks: Apple and cinnamon
Workout: Rest day
Reflection: Today was the first day that I went to event where food was provided. It actually was not as hard as I thought it would be (although I am sure there will be much more challenging instances) . In the buffet line the fruit was first -- so I loaded up before I got to tempting items (like some beautiful pastries and yummy potatoes). Overall, today I am feeling good. Less bloating, no dragging, feeling lighter and satisfied by my food choices. 

Sunday 11/3, Day 6:
Breakfast: Apple and cinnamon, black coffee
Lunch: Two over hard eggs, two pieces of ham
Dinner: Beef stew
Snacks: Guacamole, sweet potato crisps, roasted artichoke 
Workout: Rest day (but I was definitely tired from cheering on the Seahawks at the game!)
Reflection: Today was a challenge because we headed out to cheer on the Seahawks against the Buccaneers. Although I tried to be Whole30 focused and I packed some snack food (nuts and fruit), we had a little crisis where someone who is not eating Whole30 spilled beer all over my snacks... No food for me. Although I was starving during the game, being at the stadium was not has hard as I envisioned  Maybe it is because my tastes are changing, or maybe I am very focused on doing this right -- but either way, looking at the garlic fries, nachos  and burgers around me didn't actually make me want one. I definitely could have used some beer -- that game was a nail biter! Thankfully I had dinner plans with my Whole30 girls -- they are so awesome and had some food for me when I arrived. I love when we get together and cook, it is so fun to try new recipes with them and to not have to do this alone! 

Monday 11/4, Day 7:
Breakfast: Banana, one over hard egg, one piece of ham
Lunch: Left over beef stew, mineral water, lemon 
Dinner: Chicken stir fry (broccoli, bell pepper, onion, mushroom, garlic, spices)
Snacks: Dried apples
Workout: Hot Yoga (Vinyassa)
Reflection: I feel really good today and I felt like I had energy all day. I am getting mixed reviews from coworkers. Today one person said "how are you feeling, are you tired" and one said "you look thinner". Hopefully I don't look thin and tired! In the evening I went to vinyassa and I felt surprisingly strong. I don't know if I am imaging things or if I am seeing new muscle development. Either way -- it is good to feel strong, long, and lean. 

Tuesday 11/5, Day 8:
Breakfast: Egg, ham, black coffee
Lunch: Chicken stir fry, mineral water, lemon
Dinner: Roasted cauliflower curry soup, salad, almond "ice cream", mineral water, lime
Snacks: Dried apple, fresh apple
Workout: Rest day, Tuesday is my weekly girls night!
Reflection: I love Tuesdays, cooking with my girls and trying new recipes. Tonight was just the energy boost I needed. Roz blew my mind with "ice cream" tonight -- which while I was eating it I swore there was no way this was allowed in the Whole30, but it was a compliant recipe. With all this meal prep, checking out new products from different grocery stores, and skipping the eating out -- I am glad that as different as these 30 days feel, there are things that are totally the same, like Tuesdays with my girlfriends. 

Wednesday 11/6, Day 9:
Breakfast: Fruit salad (I was a little bit over the eggs for a day), black coffee
Lunch: Left over roasted cauliflower curry soup, dried apple, water
Dinner: Spaghetti squash, chicken sausage, red sauce (the most disguising thing I have tasted on this cleanse)
Snacks: Dried apple, fresh fruits
Workout: Hatha
Reflection: Feeling fulfilled, satisfied and lean -- and it feels good. Last night we tried to talk Jo into joining the Whole30 and Roz challenged saying that we would go extra days so she wouldn't do the end of her challenge alone. At first I was thinking "what?!" but then I realized...I would do that. I like what I am eating and I like how I feel. As much as I am looking forward to putting some things back into my diet (read: peanut butter), I think I will carry the majority of these good eating habits on past the end of the month. I did make the mistake today of not giving myself enough time to make break fast in the morning, in addition to getting tired of the same breakfast I had been having. I was seriously craving protein -- so I will make sure to get back to the eggs tomorrow. Also, I was proud that I was getting the hang of this meal planning and cooking thing...until I had a terrible dinner. The red sauce I finally found that was Whole30 compliant was TERRIBLE. So dinner was a bit of a flop...

Thursday 11/7, Day 10:
Breakfast: Egg, ham, black coffee
Lunch: Left over spaghetti squash (seasoned with Mrs Dash), chicken sausage, mineral water
Dinner: Salad with chicken breast, water (well sort of...see below)
Snacks: Pumpkin Spice Tea
Workout: Hot Yoga Sculpt
Reflection: Dinner was a bit of accidental drama... I was a bit tired today, so I knew I need to get my meal prepping done ASAP when I got home so I didn't have to do it all after my workout, when I would be exhausted. I prepped tomorrow's lunch and veggies for my dinner salad, then headed off to yoga. When I came home, I pulled out the salad and began to cook some chicken breast to add to it -- that's when I heard the sound of glass breaking and turned to see shards of glass in my salad. My roommate had a little accident... which meant the loss of a planned meal for me. So today I learned to improvise and to get good food without the plan. 

Friday 11/8, Day 11:
Breakfast: Egg, ham, doppio espresso (Happy Friday!)
Lunch: Left over spaghetti squash (seasoned with Mrs Dash), chicken sausage, dried apples, mineral water, lemon
Dinner: Stuffed bell peppers (According to SGT, this might be the best thing I have cooked yet!), mineral water, lemon
Snacks: Pumpkin Spice Tea
Workout: Rest day
Reflection: Today marks that I have 1/3 of this Whole30 behind me. I think I am reaching the end of the up and down phase with my thoughts of the benefits of this cleanse. I have heard that the next third truly brings the good stuff, so here we go!

Saturday 11/9, Day 12:
Breakfast: Satsuma, almonds, doppio espresso 
Lunch: Chipotle
Dinner: Tri-tip steak stir-fry
Snacks: Nuts
Workout: Rest day
Reflection: Today was the first date that I have eaten out since I began the Whole30. Although there is advice out there for how to eat out, it defeats my purposes for doing the Whole30 -- so I have shied away from it until now. Chipotle has the "burrito bowl options" which provides PLENTY of food -- so although my regular order require many substitutions or omissions, it was still tasty and a nice break from cooking. 

Sunday 11/10, Day 13:
Breakfast: Sweet potato hash browns, egg cups, fruit, black coffee
Lunch: Fruits, sugar cookie sleigh ride tea
Dinner: A repeat of breakfast (without the coffee)
Snacks: "ice cream"
Workout: Rest day
Reflection: Today's breakfast was quite the undertaking -- I have never made hash browns (let along sweet potato hash browns) from scratch. Although next time I would opt to make sweet potato home fries, I am so glad I tried something new. This is exactly why I wanted to do the Whole30: to cook, to try new recipes, and to learn more in the kitchen!

Monday 11/11, Day 14:
Breakfast: Leftover egg cups, banana
Lunch: Salad (cucumber, carrots, mushroom, bell pepper, chicken), satsuma, apple chips, lemon, mineral water
Dinner: Chicken "Fajitas" (pepper, onion, seasoning, and chicken), guacamole, mineral water, lime
Snacks: fruit (banana, apple, satsuma)
Workout: Turbo Kick
Reflection: I am feeling really good -- not to jinx anything but this is the first day I have very really lean. I was a bit worn out after a day away from home Saturday and cooking so much on Sunday, so I opted for a quickly prepped salad and left overs for dinner. I did lots of grocery shopping last night so although I don't quite have a plan for meals this week, I do have the skills to throw something together quickly. Also, today Jo joins my Whole30 girlfriends and I on this journey. We are so happy to have her on board and excited to support her through the tough first days.

Tuesday 11/12, Day 15:
Breakfast: Eggs, ham, black coffee
Lunch: Salad (cucumber, carrots, mushroom, bell pepper, chicken), satsuma, apple chips, mineral water, lemon
Dinner: Two chicken sausages, satsumas
Snacks: Salami, sweet potato chips
Workout: Hatha
Reflection: HAPPY HALFWAY POINT!

Wednesday 11/13, Day 16:
Breakfast: Fruit, Larabar (I had to get out of the house early! I know I know...slacker meal), black coffee
Lunch: Catered Qdoba, mineral water
Dinner: "Pad Thai"!, mineral water, lime
Snacks: Fruit
Workout: Rest day -- we moved girls night due to Jo being in LA (great work keeping to the Whole30 while traveling!)
Reflection: Today we had a client luncheon, which consisted of catered Qdoba. It was so awesome that this worked out with my cleanse, creating a lunch similar to when I ate out at Chipotle. Also this evening, my Whole30 girls and I tried our hand at pad thai! I was a little weary, as I have never made regular pad thai -- but our spaghetti squash, Whole30 compliant version was DELISH, and no where near as hard as I thought it would be. Add that to the list of recipes I plan to cook again!

Thursday 11/14, Day 17:
Breakfast: Fruit, Larabar (Again?! I know...I know...slacker meal), black coffee
Lunch: Left over "Pad Thai", mineral water, lemon
Dinner: Chicken patty, guacamole, sweet potato fries, mineral water
Snacks: Fruit
Workout: Hot Yoga sculpt
Reflection: On the downhill -- starting research about what to put back into my system and how. Decisions, decisions! 

Friday 11/15, Day 18:
Breakfast: Eggs, ham
Lunch: Chicken patty, guacamole, mineral water, lemon
Dinner: Onion, pepper, chicken sausage, "applesauce"
Snacks: Fruit, carrots
Workout: Rest day
Reflection: Day 18 already? I can confidently say I am in the swing of things, and the days have/are gone/going by quickly! I have a countdown at my desk at work, and I am starting to look forward to Monday mornings, because I get to check off 3 days (Friday, Saturday, Sunday)!

Saturday 11/16, Day 19:
Breakfast: NO EGGS (this wasn't my fault...)?! Fruit, Larabar, black coffee
Lunch: Eggs, sausage
Dinner: Salad 
Snacks: Sweet potato chips, apple, salami
Workout: Rest day
Reflection: Living with roommates not doing the Whole30 is a little challenging...like when you are getting out the door by 7:45am on a Saturday, only to find you can't eat breakfast because there are no eggs. Whole30 also makes your social life a little awkward, like when you head out to a restaurant after a basketball game, only to watching others eat pizza and drink beer...

Sunday 11/17, Day 20:
Breakfast: Fruit, black coffee
Lunch: Chipotle
Dinner: Pad thai and "brownie with ice cream"!
Snacks: fruit
Workout: Rest day
Reflection: So much fun cooking! Roz and I have been trying a lot of new recipes -- a brownie?! Who would have thought?! We also discussed how to keep certain things out of our bodies and what we are trying to avoid the most -- dairy and gluten.

Monday 11/18, Day 21:
Breakfast: Fruit, Larabar, black coffee
Lunch: Left over pad thai, brownie, mineral water
Dinner: Curried roasted cauliflower soup, water
Snacks: fruit
Workout: Worked late...so no workout today
Reflection: Although I am feeling great -- I am a bit frustrated with the social aspect. People have been understanding, but without the control over how my food is prepared...I really cannot eat out (and drinks are WAY out of the question). Before the Whole30 I did not eat out often, but it was nice when I could for social engagements... having that back will be a nice change. 

Tuesday 11/19, Day 22:
Breakfast: Ham, eggs, black coffee
Lunch: Left over pad thai, brownie, mineral water, lemon
Dinner: Stuffed bell peppers, banana bread, mineral water, lime
Snacks: fruit nuts
Workout: girls night
Reflection: BAKED GOODS ARE AMAZING even without all the junk! Roz surprised us with banana bread, and I just about cried. DELISH! I have not stopped thinking about it since I ate it!

Wednesday 11/20, Day 23:
Breakfast: Egg, ham, black coffee
Lunch: Curried roasted cauliflower soup, mineral water, lemon
Dinner: omelet, paleo pumpkin pancakes
Snacks: fruit
Workout: Hatha
Reflection: Still trying out more fun new recipes, while starting to repeat old favorites. Either way, I am feeling much more at home in the kitchen. 

Thursday 11/21, Day 24:
Breakfast: Fruit, Larabar, black coffee
Lunch: Curried roasted cauliflower soup, mineral water, lemon
Dinner: Chicken sausage, fruit
Snacks: nuts, apple chips
Workout: Sculpt
Reflection: Only a few days left! I am fairly certain I am going to try to keep as much dairy as possible out of my diet (except the occasional cheese). I am interested in trying gluten-free products, and researching paleo -- but I do think a small about of carbs are healthy... the jury is still out on that one (yikes...can you tell I am dating a law student?!).

Friday 11/22, Day 25:
Breakfast: Fruit, almond butter, black coffee
Lunch: Leftover stuffed bell peppers, mineral water, lemon
Dinner: chicken breast, veggies
Snacks: fruit, nuts
Workout: rest day
Reflection: Home stretch!

Saturday 11/23, Day 26:
Breakfast: Larabar, fruit, water
Lunch: egg, sausage, doppio espresso
Dinner: chicken, veggies, mineral water, lemon
Snacks: nuts
Workout: Rest day
Reflection: This is the last weekend of Whole30 eating! Well, until the next time I decide to do the Whole 30...? (Who is with me in January?)

Sunday 11/24, Day 27:
Breakfast: fruit, Larabar, doppio espresso
Lunch: veggies, salami, mineral water, lemon
Dinner: Beef stew, mineral water, lemon
Snacks: none
Workout: Ugly Sweater 5k
Reflection: Today Roz and I ran in the Ugly Sweater Run. I was having slight vertigo symptoms, but as I began the run the symptoms dissipated. We ran the 5k in just over 24 minutes, which is by far the fastest I have ever run a 5k (and I have not run since September!). Roz as been such a good influence with my eating and running habits -- I would have never run that fast without her! (Also, with this run I have completed my "run five 5k's" resolution!)

Monday 11/25, Day 28:
Reflection: Today was a struggle as I had to deal with a morning/day of vertigo. It was a challenge to make healthy choices, as I really wanted comfort food (read: mac and cheese or grilled cheese and tomato soup) -- but I kept to my Whole30 habits. 

Tuesday 11/26, Day 29:
Breakfast: Larabar, fruit, black coffee
Lunch: beef stew, lemon, water
Dinner: pancakes, fruit, sausage, mineral water, lemon, Egg nog (Roz strikes again!)
Snacks: fruit, nuts
Workout: Rest day
Reflection: Although technically, this is the last Tuesday I have to do a Whole30 meal, we will continue to do Whole30 meals until Jo finishes -- but maybe we should continue the tradition of Whole30 meals on Tuesdays so we will have an arsenal of recipes next time we do this eating cleanse. 

Wednesday 11/27, Day 30:
Breakfast: egg, ham, black coffee
Lunch: Salad, apple chips
Dinner: Chicken, veggies
Snacks: fruit, nuts
Workout: Hatha
Reflection: How is the end here already?! This really went by so fast, and I feel amazing -- truly. I am excited to assess my progress, make changes going forward, and do another Whole30 in a few months! Also -- this made me feel like such a new person, I cut 7ish inches off my hair! Goodbye long locks, hello long, angled bob! Wooohooo!

Overall post Whole30 reflections:
-Before you start, set up a reward for yourself once you complete the Whole 30 (make sure this is NOT FOOD related). We have planned a mani/pedi date, and I might even treat myself to a massage -- that makes my mouth water more than cheese does at this point. 
-Other than having fairly clean skin, I noticed that my trouble spots cleared up (chin line) and my overall complexion looks better. 
-I am definitely cooking more and I love it! Kitchen gadgets and recipe books make great Christmas presents!
-Although this is huge in other cultures, I feel as though we are lacking in in America: gathering to cook as a social experience. I may not have really been able to go out to dinner with my friends, but I did get to have them to my house to cook together while we caught up with each other. I love that we weren't just sitting and eating -- but prepping a meal together that we were proud of. 
-Overall, I do not think that completing the Whole30 is hard -- there are much harder things in life. But I will say that doing the Whole30 is "harder" for some people than it is for others. Of my three friends doing the Whole30, I know I had it the easiest. I have roommate that did their best to respect my eating, coworkers who made salad dressing and juiced veggies for me, a boyfriend who applauded my discipline, and a family who supported my undertaking. What more could you ask for?!
-If you do decide to do the Whole30, you should know that you and Mrs Dash will become BFF.
-In the end, I feel amazing, exactly what I hoped to feel: lighter, leaner, strong, healthier, with no food guilt, and happier and satisfied with what I’m eating. I don’t feel stuck in the relentless cycle of food guilt anymore. Plus, I have plenty of energy (I was going to bed at 9:30pm, but now just 8 hours is perfect!)!
-And since the numbers help, I did lose 6+ lbs. (I do have before and after pictures... although I have decided not to put them up in this post.)

So there you have it, by Whole30 in a nutshell. I would love to talk to you about it if you have questions and I know I will be doing it again -- so let me know if you want to team up (accountability partners are the best)! 

What are you waiting for? You can feel so much better than you do...you just need a CLEANSE! 

JUMP

1) to spring clear of the ground or other support by a sudden muscular effort; leap
2) to rise suddenly or quickly
3) to move or jerk suddenly, as from surprise or shock
4) to obey quickly and energetically; hustle
5) to be full of activity; bustle

Imagine waking up on a sunny Sunday morning in September to have your friends tell you, "get up -- we are going BUNGEE JUMPING! HAPPY EARLY BIRTHDAY!" You would definitely be surprised, right?!

Thankfully that didn't happen to me, but I did have to keep that secret from my best friend for almost a month! 

Normally the words "bungee jumping" don't come up in normal conversation, but you know how it goes when the one thing you aren't supposed to say is always on the forefront of your mind. I was constantly suppressing my word vomit. It got so bad one that one time that I squealed to Jo, "Oh my goodness I just have so many fun things coming up in my life -- I am so excited!" And with a puzzled look, she replied "That's really awesome Shann?"

The bridge we jumped from is a three hour drive south in Amboy, WA. The excitement and nervousness was almost palpable in my car as I drove down with my co-pilot. And to add to the stress, I had to listen to the Seahawks game on the radio while we drove (although they did win!).

We finally arrived, only to find out that the other half of our group was running late. When all was said and done, I ended up waiting at the bridge for an hour! Talk about sweaty palms, let me tell you. The good news was that someone ended up jumping ahead of me so I had the chance to see the process. Call me crazy, but that totally calmed my nerves. Getting to see exactly what I was going to get into helped to take the "unknown" out of the situation. 

Once my group arrived, I was elected to jump first. Afterwards I was first asked "how was it?!" and my answer was "really weird". And while I will still stick to that answer, I will also add -- it is really hard to explain. I don't feel that I was all that afraid to jump and I am not afraid of heights. Truly, my fear was that statistics wouldn't be in my favor...but they were! 

Have you had those dreams when you feel like you are falling and it jolts you awake? Well that is the closest thing I can compare the feeling to, without the waking up part. I am sure this isn't making any sense...so here is a video: 



I still cannot believe I did it but I am glad I did and I would do it all over again. Happy surprise birthday Jo.! Here's to another year of friendship! I look forward to whatever next adventures come our away, as we JUMP in!

EMBRACE

1) to take or clasp in the arms; hug
2) to take or receive gladly or eagerly; accept willingly
3) to avail oneself of: to embrace an opportunity
4) to adopt
5) to take in with the eye or the mind

We are already two weeks into July -- and I haven't had the chance to recap June! I am coming to the realization that I just need to give in and embrace life as time files by. There is no stopping time and rather than wishing I could slow things down I need to receive each moment gladly and eagerly. 

If you remember, May's focus was to give everything a "try" and to learn how I can better deal with "trying" situations. I want to continue that this month by embracing whatever comes at me, embracing whatever my situation is, and embracing those I love.  

I embraced a lot of change in June: my car celebrated its first birthday, Sebastian started Law School, another class of graduates entered the "real world", I painted my wall (more to come on that still!), and much more...

But by far the biggest change I experienced was having my work teammate, mentor, and friend go on maternity leave. 

For the majority of projects at work, Lisa and I work together -- everyday. She has taught me everything I know about working at HMG, she has trained me on everything I have learned client services related and she has sharpened me to become the Account Executive I am today. I have her to thank for my professional growth and development thus far in my career.

Not only do we work closely, but we have developed a friendship over the last year and a half that I am absolutely loving. This lady keeps me on my toes and has more zingers than anyone I know. Plus, anyone who can watch "Kittens Inspired by Kiittens" or "the falling Girl Scout Girl" daily, has a special place in my heart.

On June 24th, Lisa and her husband welcomed Hadley Makenna to the world at 8 lbs 10 oz and 20 3/4" tall. She is a beautiful, healthy baby with the longest fingers I have ever seen! I am so thankful that I could be in Lisa's life as she transitioned into motherhood and I am looking forward to watching her raise little Lisa Jr. Thankfully she sends a lot of cute pictures, which makes her maternity leave a little more bearable. 

For now, I look forward to the day I get to meet LJ in person, and squeeze her in a loving EMBRACE!

June Photo-a-Day Recap

Match with above!