Motivation Monday

Good morning folks!!  Happy Monday!!

I hope that you all had a fabulous weekend!!  I did and I'll recap later.

Today is Motivation Monday and today we'll be talking about healthy Super Bowl snacks.

Wendy

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Alisha

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Betty

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Brandi

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Gwen

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Jen

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Jennifer

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Morgan

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Theresa

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Tiffany

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We really aren't big NFL football watchers here at our house. We are primarily interested in college football more than anything else. We probably will watch at least part of the Super Bowl because I like the commercials! :-)

When I think of "football food" I think of chips and queso, pizza, wings, etc. Quite honestly, none of that sounds very appealing to me. So we'll be doing a Mexican fiesta. I'm planning to fix turkey taco salads with homemade guacamole and Black Bean & Corn Salsa

If I splurge on anything, it will probably be a margarita!!  If I do, I will make it myself with fresh lime and orange juice to avoid all the sugar and calories in those pre made drink mixers. Those are usually full of sugar and I don't really like the taste of them.

Be sure to check out what my co-hosts will be serving for their Super Bowl watch parties.

Have a marvelous Monday!!

Will you be watching the Super Bowl?

What snacks will you be serving??



Embracing My Crazy

Howdy Folks!!  TGIF!!

Whew!!  This has been the longest. week. ever!  I thought Friday would never get here!! It has been a busy, hectic week!

I had a good spin workout Wednesday night followed by 3 rounds of the workout that I posted for Workout Wednesday. I got a pretty good sweat on!

Thursday, I was supposed lead Pathways on a 3 mile run. Well, my boss had scheduled a staff meeting for 4pm. She told us that she would try to keep it at 1 hour, but that almost never happens. Consequently, I didn't get out of there in time to make the group run. I'm not entirely that upset about missing it either because it was about 18 degrees/felt like 6 with the wind chill at run time. I thought about getting some miles in on the treadmill but I'm scheduled to run the Go Short, Go Long, Go Very Long 25k tomorrow morning. My Achilles is feeling pretty good right now and I didn't want to risk irritating it again. I'm not sure that the treadmill isn't a contributing factor to the injury in the first place. I increased my pace and mileage but I also had never run on the treadmill until recently. I think in this instance, rest and erring on the side of caution was the right call to make.

So, this is going to be a pretty personal, revealing post. If you're not into that, then stop reading now. Otherwise, you've been forewarned.

I've been trying to wrap my mind around my meltdown the other day. I've been trying to figure out what happened. I remember from a very early age trying to be a "pleaser", trying to make everyone happy so that I would feel accepted. I struggled to fit in. I didn't make many friends. I didn't participate in sports or extracurricular activities other than band and choir. I was only mediocre at those. I didn't push myself or challenge myself because I was afraid of failure. I was not encouraged to either. I'll never forget my first grade teacher yanking me out of my chair and shaking me so hard that I wet my pants because I colored outside of the lines on the first freaking day of school even! Or the 5th grade teacher who ridiculed my art projects and belittled me/put me down every chance she got. I hope karma wears stilettos!! Apparently I never successfully mastered Erikson's developmental stage of industry vs inferiority. I've always had a low self esteem and confidence issues. I have had problems starting things and not finishing them. I've always sought approval and validation from others. I never learned to love myself and I often set unrealistic expectations for myself.

But all of that has changed recently and running has played an integral part in that. People joke about running being cheaper than therapy. Well, for me it is therapy. Running has empowered me. It is something that I can do for myself that no one can take away from me or diminish. It's not easy but I'm out there doing it and they aren't! I'm not a fast runner but my running friends and community accept me just that way I am. And the sense of accomplishment that I get when I cross the finish line is better than any drug could ever be!! I'm proud of what I've accomplished so far and have been so looking forward to completing my first marathon. Then this stupid Achilles acted up. I started to have doubt and fear. Additionally, there was negativity directed at me by one of my runners and I've really taken that personally. I had such a positive, inspiring group of runners last session and I guess that I expected that same thing with this group especially since they're in the advanced group. But I don't think that is going to be the case and I'm feeling discouraged and disappointed already. So, the other day when the doctor was trying to get me to engage my core and I couldn't do what he wanted me to do was the icing on the cake. All those old feelings of inadequacy came rushing back and the pent up frustrations that I've been dealing with came spilling out.

We all have our own issues and our own "crazy" to some degree. I really thought that I had made good progress in burying those old feelings but I guess they are still there and closer to the surface than I thought. I really don't know how to defeat all my demons, but 1 thing is certain, I've got to got to keep moving forward! I've got to accept myself and be happy with who I am, including that little bit of crazy that will apparently always be with me. The best thing that I can do right now is lace up my shoes and kick some serious asphalt! I'm not really worried about running with fear and doubt, I'll just outrun them!!

Have a fabulous Friday and a great weekend!

What are your plans this weekend?? Any races?

Workout Wednesday #3

Hello, hello folks!!

Woohoo, it's Wednesday, my second favorite day of the week!!  It means that we're halfway through the work week and I'm just working for the weekend!!

Yesterday was a difficult day for me. I had an early appointment with my chiropractor. He is still convinced that my heel problem stems from some muscle imbalances. He was doing some muscle strength testing with me. I was getting frustrated because I was having difficulty activating my core muscles. He then moved up to my jaw, where I apparently carry a lot of my stress. I must clench my jaw and not realize it because it was very tender. And I just lost it! I started crying and could not seem to stop. In that moment, every feeling of inferiority and self doubt that I have ever had came flooding out of me. It was very unexpected! I've never had an emotional response to pain like that before and I thought that I usually do a pretty good job of being strong and positive. Well, I guess not!  I'm still trying to process all that but I learned that:

1. You can't hide crazy with mascara

 

2. Sometimes, you can't out run your demons

 

3. Crying doesn't mean you're weak. It just means

that you've been strong for too long

 

I'm glad that they make bubble bath, wine and chocolate for days like yesterday! And I'm extremely glad that I get a chance to try again today!!  :-)

 

 

Today after work, I'm going to spin class to try to tame some of those demons. Then, after spin class, I've got a little strength workout that I'm eager to try:

 

 

That should work up quite a little sweat!!

 

 

What workouts are you doing today??



Monday Motivation--New Things

Good morning friends!! 

I hope that you all had a fabulous weekend.

Saturday was long run day. I was hoping to get 10-12 miles. I did 3 miles with Pathways AP2b at 35:40; 11:53/mile. Then Kelly and I waited for Rozdi to get back to the store to finish our miles. This was probably a mistake. My legs were sore and got really tight while we were waiting plus the negative comments were working on my head. Self doubt was creeping in and I was rethinking my decision to coach Pathways this session. I managed to get in 6 more miles but they weren't easy or pretty. I really beat myself up about not getting all my miles. But the more I think about it, I'm glad I didn't force it. Being tired and not really focused increases the risk of injury. It's better to stop and start again when feeling rested. I'm hoping that the next run will be better. :-)

Today is Motivation Monday and the theme is "New Things"

 

Yesterday was food prep day and I made my husband's favorite goulash. Today is his first day back to work after 6 weeks off for knee surgery so he needed a little comfort food. And I made a large pot of Minestrone Soup. It's a new recipe for me so I thought that I would share it with you for the Motivation Monday New Things link up.

MINESTRONE SOUP:

3 Carrots chopped
3 Celery stalks chopped
1 Onion chopped
2-4 cloves of garlic minced
2 28 oz cans of diced tomatoes
1 can cannellini beans
1 can red kidney beans
1 Cup quinoa pasta
2 Cups veggie broth
1 Tbsp Italian seasoning
2 Cups Spinach leaves
2 cups Zucchini

Saute' veggies in olive oil until tender. Add to large stock pot with tomatoes, beans and spices. Bring to a boil then add the zucchini, spinach and pasta. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Cook for 10 minutes or until pasta and zucchini is tender.

I love Olive Garden minestrone soup. I'm not sure how close this is, but I can't wait to try it today at lunch!!  You could add meat if desired but I'm going to try it without for Meatless Monday. 

Be sure to check out what new things my co-hosts have for you today!!

Have a marvelous Monday!!

Sisterhood of the World Bloggers Award

TGIF Folks!!  We made it to Friday!!

Whew! The past couple of days have been extremely busy for me!

After work Wednesday night, I went to spin class. I love a good spin class and haven't been to one in quite a while because I couldn't find one that coordinated with my running schedule. I was excited when I learned that Fleet Feet Sports Tulsa was going to offer evening spin classes. My running schedule had recently changed a little bit and I would be able to attend the Wednesday class.  I worked up quite a sweat! After spin, Kasey and I did a core/abs workout. Man! I am out of shape! My abs are so sore today and I LOVE IT! I think that was what I needed to reignite my fire and help me get back to a regular cross training schedule.

Last night, I led my Advanced Pathways group on their 2nd run of the spring session. This is the first session for Advanced Pathways. Many of the participants have been in the program several times already. Rather than starting back at the beginning, we chose to pick up where they left off. I've got the AP2b group. Our pace starts at 11:00 min/mile and gradually increases throughout the session. Plus, we have no intervals. These are big changes for some of them and I heard quite a bit of grumbling about the pace initially. I had to remind them at the water stop that they were there because they wanted to improve their time and endurance. Then I challenged them to step out of their comfort zone for the next 12 weeks. I slowed the pace down to 11:15 on the way back to the store. I don't know if that was what did it or my speech, but I didn't hear any more grumbling. :-) We did 2.6 miles in 28:46 for an average of 11:05. I used to be afraid of getting lost or not maintaining a consistent pace, but last night I was spot on!! My Achilles is still tender but I've got a date with the chiropractor in just a little while, so hopefully this problem will be short lived.

While catching up on some blog reading this morning, I discovered that Sarah nominated me for a "Sisterhood of the World Bloggers Award". I've recently discovered several new blogs that I enjoy reading and I love networking with new people. This questionnaire will allow me get to know these other bloggers better, so I'm very excited.

There are some rules that go along with this award, the rules are:

1. Post the logo on your blog.
2. Thank the person who nominated you.
3. Answer the questions.
4. Choose 10 or so other ladies who blog as your nominees.
5. Post the links to the nominees’ blogs and notify them on their blog.

Questions:
1. What is your favorite color?

Red is probably my favorite color followed closely by blue.


2. Favorite Animal?
I have a 4 pound Chihuahua and she is my baby, but I've always been more partial to cats. That's right! I'm the crazy cat lady!!!!

3. Favorite non-alcoholic drink?
That's easy! The sweet tea from QuickTrip, a convenience store in Tulsa, is the best! It's my kryptonite! I love it!

4. Facebook or Twitter?
I have them both and use them both. I would have to say Facebook is my favorite. I love Instagram too!

5. Favorite pattern?
Leopard print I love it, I think it's fun and whimsical!

6. What is your passion?
My passion  is health, wellness, fitness and running. I  just want to be the best me that I can be. I want to be healthy and fit and strong. And I love coaching my pathways group. I love helping others to achieve their goals!

And, I nominate:

Wendy @ A Daily Dose of Delsignore

Alisha@ Coily Locks

Betty @ Losing My Gut

Brandi @ Mama's Losing It

Gwen @ Against the Grain

Jen @ Morning Coffee Confessions

Jennifer @ Jens Journey

Morgan @ Fat to Fit Confessions

Tiffany @ The Fit Train


Ok folks, that's all I got for today! Go out and make it a fabulous Friday!!  And have a wonderful weekend!

Workout Wednesday #2

Good morning folks!! 

Happy Hump Day!!  Thanks for all the love I've felt from my fellow bloggers the past few days!!  It's really nice to be able to connect with others. I appreciate all the comments and feedback!!

I had a sports massage after work last night and it was AMAZING! I had heard really good things about this girl, so I just had to check it out. I thought that I did a pretty good job of stretching and rolling the kinks out but it was abundantly clear that I don't. I was pretty beat up! She kept finding spots that needed worked on and at one point she said "there's no way I'm going to finish you in an hour" I think that I need to schedule a massage every 4-6 weeks routinely. I feel SO much better today! Even the Achilles isn't as tender as it was before!

I'm really excited because I'm going to spin class tonight! I love spin, I just haven't found a class that coordinates with my schedule. When I saw an email from Fleet Feet Sports Tulsa 52 Fitness last week regarding evening spin classes, I almost squealed like a little girl!!  I'm just hoping that I can keep up!!

Today is Workout Wednesday!!  When I was at the chiropractor the other day, he mentioned that he didn't think my transverse abdominus was firing, meaning my core is weak. Imagine that! I sit a lot at work so it's no wonder that my glutes, back and abs are weak! So, in addition to the spin class, I'm going to try to throw in a little ab routine as well. Here's what I'm planning to do tonight:

 

I'm planning to do that circuit at least 3 times, or I might vary it a little plus I'm going to add a plank until failure between each set and at the end.


And, that's a wrap for today! Have a wonderful Wednesday!!

What workout/workouts are you doing today?

Inspiration

Good morning friends!!

Happy Tuesday!!  Personally, I'm glad that Monday is over!! I'm usually very busy at work playing catch up from the weekend and yesterday was no exception! I left early to go to my doctor's appointment.

My chiropractor treats many runners and is very familiar with running injuries. I really like him because he doesn't just treat the symptoms, he wants to correct whatever caused the symptoms in the first place. Being a nurse, I already knew my issue was my Achilles. He did a thorough assessment and feels that it is the result of muscle imbalances. He did a laser treatment on the heel and recommended that I come back 3 more times. Friday when I go in, he will do dry needling and then tape my heel to get me through my run this weekend. He will also give me "home work" or exercises to help strengthen the weak muscles. I'm hoping for the best here!!

After I left his office, I went to Fleet Feet Sports Tulsa for the kickoff of the spring session of Pathways. I had left my running shoes at home yesterday morning, but happened to have the new pair of Asics GT-2000 in my car. I was talking with one of the staff members about the Achilles pain I'm having and he started asking me about the shoes I was wearing, where did I get them, how I came to choose that pair of shoes, etc. He felt like it wasn't really a good fit for me and managed to finagle a trade for a new pair of Asics Cummulus.

 The Cummulus is a neutral shoe and because I tend to pronate and for arch support, he recommended that I wear a Superfeet insole. This combination felt very good when I put it on. I decided to go for a little test run. I wasn't very far from the store when I knew that this wasn't going to work. I managed to get 1 mile before I had to stop and walk. I was devastated and frustrated. I had to do the time trial with the Pathwayers then we were going to run 1.5 miles and I wasn't going to be able to do it. I took the Superfeet insoles out and put the original sock liner back in. We had our Pathways meeting then did the time trial. I ran about 0.5 miles back to the store with the group and realized that my heel wasn't hurting as bad without the Superfeet. I decided to try to run with my group. We did 1 mile in 11.20 and my heel actually felt pretty good. I went back into the store to tell Seth what had happened. He recommended that I purchase a CEP Compression Achilles brace, so I did. I tried it on when I got home and I think this along with the new shoes and the chiropractor will help me overcome the Achilles problem and keep me running!!  I'm super excited!!

I've scheduled a sports massage tonight after work. I'm really looking forward to that!! I need someone to work out some soreness, tightness and kinks that I just can't get to with a foam roller.

Last week, I had a chance to speak to my local, hometown YMCA running group about my story. When they first asked me to do it, I said yes but hoped that they would forget. I don't really consider myself an inspiration. But, recently when my children were here visiting, I had a little eye opener. My grand daughter, who is 7, looked at all my medals and asked "Grandma, did you get all those medals from winning marathons?" Without even thinking about it, I said "yes" The way I see it, is we're all winners for getting out there in the first place and I really didn't want to explain the concept of a finisher's medal to a 7 y/o, who wasn't going to understand in the first place. Her response to my reply was a wide eyed "WOW" I could hear the awe in her voice and it made me realize that she thinks her grandma is a winner. GREAT! Let her!!  And in that moment, I realized that we never know who is watching and who we might be inspiring!! 

Be an inspiration today!!!