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! 

SWEAT

1) to perspire, especially freely or profusely
2) to exude moisture, as green plants piled in a heap or cheese
3) to gather moisture from the surrounding air by condensation.
4) (of moisture or liquid) to ooze or be exuded
5) (informal) to work hard

You may have noticed a new badge on my blog, to the right of the posts... and wondered what that was about. Well...

I am proud and excited to announce some fun news:
I am now a Sweat Pink Ambassador!

The Sweat Pink Ambassador community is:
"a place for enthusiastic, positive, inspirational people to connect and support each other in reaching their goals around health, fitness, life... and more. It's a place where we come together and celebrate what we have and reach for even more. It's a place where new friendships spark and running buddies find each other; where you'll always find a cheerleader or a word of advice."

The Sweat Pink mission:
"We believe that kicking ass is best done in pretty shoes. We've learned that real women sweat, and sweat hard. We know that assertiveness, strength, and ambition are the ultimate feminine qualities. We concede that sometimes it takes hours to get ready, but we’re also no strangers to just rolling out of bed and going. We’re convinced that we run faster in pink shoelaces. We believe in pushing ourselves, and we believe in giving ourselves a break, too. We’re all about the rush of endorphins and the thrill of the challenge. We’re all for looking great and feeling even better. We’re committed to finding our best fit, and making it stick."

This is the first blog community I have joined and I have already been inspired by these women. It is so helpful to be included in forums about running or training for a half marathons and fun to get opportunities to review health-related products. You will see me participating in these as much as I can, as well as using the #sweatpink tag on instagram.

Also, I have 10 sets of pink shoelaces that I am going to give away to girls who inspire me to keep progressing toward my fitness goals! Could that be you?

Again, I am really proud to be part of this community. I look forward to bringing you along with ride with me as I continue to SWEAT.

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!

SAMPLE

1) to take a small part of anything or one of a number, intended to show the quality, style, or nature of the whole
2) to experiment with a subset of a population in order to study the total population.
3) to take a sample or samples of; test or judge by a sample

Sometimes, I am thankful for social media. When Facebook serves its actual purpose of sharing things (events, milestones in your life, pictures, etc.) you are doing with with your friends -- cool things can happen. 

Without a friend sharing this event on Facebook, I would have never heard of the Gig Harbor Beer Festival. Thank you Brianna (and as an added bonus her boyfriend was playing in one of the bands)! Also, thank you for making sure we bought our tickets ahead of time -- because this event sold out!

Although we weren't too sure about the weather (you never know with Seattle spring), we ended up having gorgeous blue skies and fairly warm temps. We also weren't too sure about the location, as it was set up in the middle of the Uptown Gig Harbor shopping village -- but we ended up really liking it! This allowed for easy parking and a variety of options for our post festival meal. 

We ran into old friends and made some new ones; we tasted eight sips from local breweries; and we not only soaked up the sun, but also music from local talent. My favorite was Siren's Call from Narrows Brewing (seen in the bottom two pictures) because they use dried hibiscus in the brewing process which gives it a lighter cider taste and adds a pink hue. 

Next time, we are definitely making pretzel necklaces to eat while we SAMPLE. 

ILLUMINATE

1) to supply or brighten with light; light up
2) to make lucid or clear; throw light on (a subject)
3) to decorate with lights, as in celebration
4) to enlighten, as with knowledge.
5) to make resplendent or illustrious

If The Color Run and The Electric Run got married and had a baby -- it would be the Cosmic Run. Here you have the colored powder component from the Color Run and the glow-in-the-dark nature of an nocturnal race from the Electric Run. Just when I thought I had seen it all..

What is crazier than this run, is the fact that other than The Slime Run -- I can't remember the last race I ran that was a 5k. Can you believe that?! 5k races and my relationship with running have both come a long way. 

The course went throughout the Puyallup Fairgrounds, which was similar to the Electric Run -- but I have to say, the Electric Run was much more fun. The Cosmic Run didn't have much to look at in between color/glow stations. I thought there would be more in the way of glow-in-the-dark decorations, etc. Also, they spaced the waves too close together so there was a MAJOR backup, resulting in the "Cosmic Walk"...or "Cosmic Standstill".

Despite the logistics issues, Roz and I still had a lot of fun. It was hilarious to look at ourselves under the blacklights at the after-run dance party! AND just like at the Electric Run, the Fisher Scone station was open -- so Roz got to have her FIRST fair scone. Of course, she loved it. 

This will be my last short distance run for awhile (in fact, I think I have had my fare share of "fun runs"), but I am glad I had another chance to experience a nocturnal run and ILLUMINATE. 

SLIME

1) to cover or smear with or as if with slime

If you are a 90's child, you watched Nickelodeon. And if you watched Nickelodeon, chances are your favorite show (or at least second favorite to Legends of the Hidden Temple) was Double Dare. 

I used to dream of going on Double Dare. I would image myself jumping into the ice cream sundae in the kiddie pool searching frantically for the flag, as the time incessantly ticked away on the clock. Why did they discontinue that show?!

Thankfully, my faithful friend Groupon helped make my dreams come true with The Slime Run. This was a 5k run/slime obstacle course at Remlinger Farms in Carnation, WA and was the perfect run for my sisters to join us for! This event was much less about the running and much more about the slime filled obstacles!

As we drove to Carnation, we were a bit worried about the weather -- but the rain held out until after we finished, and received our slimey medals! After the run, we cleaned up and headed to our favorite spot for a post run brunch. A very successful Saturday. 

If you could live out one of your childhood dreams -- would it involved SLIME?!

BOND

1) to connect or bind
2) to place a bonded debt on or secure a debt by bonds; mortgage
3) to join (two materials)
4) to lay (bricks, stones, etc.) so as to produce a strong construction
5) to hold together or cohere, from or as from being bonded, as bricks in a wall or particles in a mass
6) to establish a bonding

Last week marked the end of Sebastian's first year in law school (now just need to get through finals!). Although I am not the one putting in the endless hours of reading, writing, and studying -- I can say that this academic year flew by.

It seems so recent that Sebastian and I first checked out Seattle U together, as he was Law School shopping. And now here he is 1/3 of the way done. I am so proud of his hard work and involvement in and out of the classroom -- but I am even more impressed with the amazing people he has surrounded himself with in the process. 

My favorite memories from Sebastian's first year of law school, always include his two new best friends and the bond they have created together. These guys are not only inseparable, but unstoppable -- and luckily for me, they each come with an amazing girlfriend!

These guys keep Sebastian sane and these girls are always there to commiserate with me as we navigate our new role of Law School Girlfriends together. 

But best of all -- these couples were the most outstanding company that one could have when attending the Barristers Ball (aka Law Prom). Barristers Ball was one of my most favorite nights of this year! The dancing and laughs were endless. The food was delicious, drinks were cold, and the company was perfect. I wish I could do it all over again. 

I know boys don't get all mushy -- so I will say this on behalf of Sebastian: THANK YOU guys for being the best friends Sebastian and I could ask for. There is a lot of new territory that comes with Law School, and I am so thankful that we are in this together. Law school may only be three years, but I can see that this friendship will last beyond that and grow into a lifetime BOND.

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!

DRIVE

1) to send, expel, or otherwise cause to move by force or compulsion
2) to cause and guide the movement of (a vehicle, an animal,etc.)
3) to convey in a vehicle
4) to force to work or act
5) to impel; constrain; urge; compel

Another year -- another President's Day weekend celebrated with a girl time. I can't even explain how much I love three-day weekends that include a mini-road trip. They are the perfect opportunity to explore somewhere close and get you out of your normal weekend mode. 

Despite the fact the weather (read: crazy pass conditions) tried to stop us from making it out to Yakima this year, we pushed through anyways. The drive was stressful and took double the amount of time it should have, but the trusty Subaru got us there in one piece. 

Weekends with my girls are always filled with catching up, laughing, and wine-ing -- and I wouldn't have it any other way. I truly hope that we can continue this President's Day tradition. And if we are keeping the wine theme -- maybe next year will be Napa (OK-- maybe just Walla-Walla or somewhere in Oregon)?

Also I have to share that while in Yakima, we tasted the BEST rosé I have EVER from Treveri Cellars. It was so good that our bride-to-be picked up six bottles for her wedding day -- and I bought one that I am saving for a special occasion. If you love sparking wine, everything at Treveri is good! Beyond the sparkling wine, we loved the food, service, atmosphere and the stories from our sommelier -- we stayed for hours just soaking it all in (or up?). If you aren't going to be in Yakima anytime soon but want to give these sparkling wines a try, we were told that Wine World in the University District carries Treveri Wines.

There are so many places to be explored right in your own backyard. So, next time you have a three-day weekend, back your bags and go for a DRIVE! 

PS. If you want to check out my post from last year's President's Day Weekend in Yakima, you can view it HERE. 

SMILE

1) to assume a facial expression indicating pleasure, favor, or amusement, but sometimes derision or scorn
2) to move the lips characterized by an upturning of the corners of the mouth
3) to regard with favor
4) to have a pleasant or agreeable appearance or aspect

I feel absolutely terrible about the tardiness of this post -- I meant to get this up around the holidays, but I never got around to finishing it! So, here it is now!

One of my favorite things about the holidays is that all of my high school besties come HOME! When we all are in the Seattle-area, we try to schedule a time to get together for a dinner or something along those lines. This year the way everyone's travel schedule worked out, we were able to have a little dinner party at my place. I LOVE hosting dinner parties/get together so I was really excited that this worked out. On top of it, I have a co-worker who also loves to host events -- so when I told her about my girls dinner she has the perfect addition to the festivities -- "PHOTOBOOTH" PROPS!

Last year our landlords let us pick an accent wall in our kitchen, so we chose a mossy green for the brick wall. This turned out to be the ideal backdrop for our "photobooth". Who knew?! We laid out all of the holiday themed props and took turns being photographed. Then using the collage feature at picmonkey.com -- I was able to string the photos together to make them look like actual photobooth strips. 

My girlfriends and I had so much fun with the props that I decided to bring them to my parents house on Christmas day so my sisters and I could also play around with them. This time we used our fireplace because it had a holiday feel and we propped my sister's phone up on a table. She has a feature that allows you to say "shoot!" while in camera mode and the picture will capture on a one second delay. This provided lots of laughs for us and some pretty cute holiday photos.

If you ever find yourself looking for a quick craft project for a rainy day -- make some props and throw together some prop bins! It is so fun to have these little items on hand for get togethers, no matter the reason or season. These photos will be the talk of your event! 

I loved looking back through these photos, as I put together the photo strips. I couldn't help but be thankful for the amazing women around me in the form of friends and family, and SMILE. 

FLY

1) to move through the air using wings
2) to be carried through the air by the wind or any other force
3) to float or flutter in the air
4) to travel in an aircraft or spacecraft.
5) to move suddenly and quickly; start unexpectedly

The first two months of 2014 have truly flown by -- or maybe I am just doing a great job of sticking to my New Year's Resolution of staying present? Either way it has been almost 2 months since my last post so it is time to get a little update going. 

For my birthday this year I received entry to the Quarter Century Club -- you know, turned the big 2-5! And the weekend I spent celebrating was one for the record books...literally. 

To kick off my birthday weekend, some of my wonderful co-workers surprised me by "decorating" my desk. It was a huge surprise, not only that my desk was decorated, but more so the extent to which they decorated it. I mean...see for yourself: 

That evening, Sebastian took me to see Pacific Northwest Ballet's opening night of The Sleeping Beauty. Now, I have to tell you when he took me to PNB's opening night of Swan Lake for my 18th birthday, I feel asleep in the 4th act (and no the irony of the fact that I fell asleep in a ballet and also the name of this year's ballet is not lost on us). So it REALLY meant a lot and he would give the ballet another go with me this year. Anyways, the ballet was absolutely stunning (as always), and definitely made me miss my good ol' dancin' days.

The next day was my actual birthday and I spent the morning indulging, you know coffee and giant stawberry nutella crepe for breakfast, followed by mani's and pedi's, then mexican food/happy hour for lunch (who doesn't love a sombrero?!). 

From then it was time to head to iFly for Indoor Skydiving! I will be honest, I would have loved to go outdoor skydiving for my birthday -- but due to the fact that it is February, it did not seem the most feasible. Indoor skydiving was the next best thing -- and I LOVED it. The best part was the fact that I had a group go with me, and my Dad did it! Such a hoot to share this experience and fly with my Dad. Also, could this shot be any better?! Check out that beautiful 12th Man flag! 

After iFly, I met some friends at Capitol Cider. A few months ago, I read a Seattle Met blog post about this new cider bar, and I wanted to try it out -- what better time than my birthday, right? The main floor is dimly, romantically lit restaurant that includes gluten-free food options -- perfect for a future date night. The lower floor has quite a different feel -- a bustling bar with tons of seating and games for everyone. We set up camp by the shuffleboard tables, playing any game we could get our hands on (Battleship!) and tasting the delicious ciders. Thank you to all who came out to celebrate with me! 

Thankfully, I had distracted myself all weekend with birthday activities -- because the moment I woke up on Sunday, the butterflies wouldn't stop (well...I think they were butterflies...). The day was finally here. The day I had anticipated almost as much as my birthday: SUPERBOWL SUNDAY, SEAHAWKS vs BRONCOS. This is the first Superbowl in a looooong time that I couldn't care less about about the commercials -- this year Superbowl was about FOOTBALL (and Bruno Mars!). Now that we are so far past the game, the details are irrelevant but one thing remains the same, the Seahawks were untouchable that day -- absolutely perfect. What a game to end the season on. From the girl who spent halftime crying tear of joy and who only wanted a Lombardi Trophy for her birthday, I say THANK YOU SEAHAWKS! It was an epic ride, for the record books. (Also -- thank you Sylvia for letting me wear you autographed jersey from THE BEST CORNER IN THE GAME, since he is #25!)

I still can't get over what a wonderful time I had on my birthday weekend: the love, laughs, food, company, experiences, gifts, and memories. And if the beginning of this year is going to set the precedent for 2014, this year is going to FLY. 

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!