40 Days Fit - Day 36

Finally, I made one of the recipes I posted as "to do" on a previous post. The Korean Spicy Quick Braised Tofu recipe I used was adjusted a little, and I replaced the suggested brown rice with cooked spinach. I've never had anything against tofu. I think it tastes yummy, and the very spicy kick my dinner had was perfect! Here is my adjusted "for one" recipe:

8oz Trader Joe's Sprouted Tofu (200 cals)
1 tsp vegetable oil (40 cals)
1 jalapeno (making it really spicy! 10 cals)
1 tablespoon water
1 tsp low sodium soy sauce (5 cals)
1 tsp honey (20 cals)
1 tsp Chili pepper paste (10 cals)
Shake of sesame seeds

Cut the tofu into cubes, then set on a paper towel to dry for about 10 minutes
Pour the vegetable oil into a large pan on medium-high heat until warmed up
Place the tofu in the pan. Be careful - the oil will splash (ouch!)
Cook the tofu until golden brown (8-10 minutes) then move the tofu to a paper towel to drain a little

Add the jalapenos to the pan you just used over medium heat. Let cook for about 30 seconds
Combine all other ingredients and add to medium heat pan with jalapenos. Let cook about 30 seconds - 1 minute.

Add the tofu and mix it all up for another minute or so, then enjoy! At only 285 calories (305 if you cook spinach), it is filling, easy and oh so worth a try!

I missed my workout today since I left work super late and it was one of my best friend's birthday. Well worth it though on a Wednesday night. I had one or two skinny margaritas as Buckhead Saloon. At 100 calories, they are so yummy!

Happy Birthday Ange! I know your wish may have a hope of Maker's Mark cupcakes attached ;)

40 Days Fit - Day 35

It's 10:40 at night and I am finally getting around to taking a minute and getting to writing. It's been a very busy, hot, and yummy day. I woke up early this morning to go for a run. My goal was 45 minutes, and it turned into a 5 mile run. Rolling out of bed at 6am is hard, and still eerie outside of my apartment. It is so dark, dead and you have to remain aware. When I get onto the main road, Peachtree though, the road starts bustling. The amount of people running usually outnumbers the number of cars. With the hot weather Georgia is having, especially in the afternoon, running early in the early morning before the sun comes up seems to be the only reasonable time to get your run for the day in.

It was a neat finish, with the sun just starting to peek up over the tree and building lines. I felt accomplished already for the day, and it was only 7am. After a few cups of coffee, client meetings and office work, my friend Danielle and I headed to the VaHi area to try out this cute little "hole in the wall" Mexican place called Pozole neither of us had been before. 

Not only was the conversation and catching up with a friend good, but the skinny margaritas and tacos were delicious! I grabbed the pork and tilapia while Danielle tried the beef brisket and grilled chicken. All were quickly wiped clean from our plates. 

We also both had their skinny margarita, which I think I can find the recipe for. At only 100 calories a drink, it could  be my demise. They also have a jalapeno margarita which I am anxious to try. They are known for it, and considering I like both flavors it is well worth a taste test. Our waitress also recommended the Pomegranate and the Perfect Margarita. I think it may be my new spot on Wednesdays due to their daily special - $1 tacos and $3 margs. 

40 Days Fit - Day 34

For the past 2 weeks or so, since the weather has been nice, I have been finding the need to go outside for lunch and enjoy the day. I really hate sitting in the office all day. I get antsy, tired, I feel lethargic and I hate missing out on the beautiful day that is playing hide and seek with me past the office walls. For lunch, I grab a yogurt, apple and sometimes a granola bar and head out to the closest, convenient park with benches. It amazes me that I am always alone. How can people lock themselves inside all day. Look at this beautiful day!

After finishing up with work, I headed out to the gym for a now once-weekly session with Bing. It started off with doing 40 yard runs with the kettle ball, then running 5 yards and hopping for a bit into a lunge, then squats and curls, then what we both call the "dead body" lift and push for another 80 yards. My hamstrings feel like they are going to pop if I bend over. My arms and legs are so sore, and it feels great. I know I'll take back those words tomorrow - I'm running for about 45 minutes in the morning - but for now, I know I put in some effort. 

When I got home, I tried my new experiment - sauteed kale. It did not work out well. I mixed it with spinach and cooked it in the same way. It did not work. Look at this pathetic kale- it's all brown and burnt (and smelled that way too). I need to try this again. Maybe tomorrow I'll get it right. Once I find a good cooking method, I'll be sure to share. Until then, don't do this! Night y'all!

40 Days Fit - Day 33

I wasn't even looking, but somehow I found one of my new favorite bloggers. Not only does he blog about breakfast (by far my favorite meal of the day as well), but he jokes about a slated spatula being a "slut" (slut, slat, same thing). He even talked about putting eggs on pizza (again, a favorite I found while living in Paris). This man may be my far away gay soul mate.

So today, I made one of his recent ideas - toast, brussel sprouts and a poached egg on top - some of my favorite foods all in one unexpected combination. Find his recipe here: Poached Egg & Carmelized Brussel Sprouts. I skipped adding the sugar and olive oil to the recipe, but everything else was very similar. I cooked my egg a bit too long. I'll get it right next time.

Here are also my steps to poaching an egg:

1. Fill a sauce pan with water and wait until boiling.
2. When boiling, add a tablespoon of vinegar. This will keep the egg's oval shape.
3. Crack the egg and pour the hole thing into the boiling water, gently.
4. Decrease the heat till the bubbles are just still forming
5. Let the egg cook for four minutes. Shorter for a runnier yolk and longer if you like it cooked fully (I prefer mine on the runny side.
6. Removed with a slated spatula, so the water is able to drip off.
7. Fork it!

Breakfast Bachelor, if you are reading, you have an open invitation to my kitchen in Atlanta!

40 Days Fit - Day 32

What a beautiful day for a morning run! It was perfectly chilly out, not too bright and I was surrounded by a bunch of people enjoying the same thing (again, my kind-a scene!)

The Atlanta Track Club hosted their annual Women's 5K this morning in Candler Park and you better believe I was there! I was placed in Corral A, and all of the typical competition runners were crowding to the front of me. My times recently have been giving me an extra dose of confidence, but I did not look like a "trained" athlete this morning.

I was wearing normal socks, not my performance ones, a cotton t-shirt, and my hair was in a side braid rather than slicked back. Whatever. It was a 5K. Do I really need to look like a pro to run like one? Not this morning.

I ended up passing a lot of these women, thankfully. They can be intimidating, but it is getting over the mental "I cant's". I've always known that my body isn't built to be a fast runner, but I saw a shirt this girl was wearing today that really resided with me. I want to find this! (Granted, she was a tiny girl, but still applicable.)


"It's not the size of the girl in the fight, it's the size of the fight in the girl."


It's based off the "fight in the dog" quote by Mark Twain, but switched up a bit.


The race went well - I clocked in right at 24 minutes (7:45-ish per mile), but the best was passing through the finish line. They gave everyone a carnation, and whole foods had SO much food laid out. I grabbed a few Clif bars (well, a "few" being 6... oops) and a banana. You have to avoid eating all of the food they have their though. When you run a 5K, you really burn only 300 calories. If you go and gorge on the bagels, multiple bananas, the dark chocolate (it was a women's race, of course they had this) and the different nutrient bars, you could end up eating 3 times as much as you just burnt off - not good! 


But, here's what I grabbed today from the race. Best part of a race is always the swag bag! 

Notice the ATC application (which I'll finally fill out and send off to be a real member) and all of the upcoming race flyers. In the back there is also a new sports recovery drink called FRS. I've been drinking these the past week (they were at the GA Publix Half Expo, the BeltLine Run Club and at the race today), and they seem great! I'm definitely going to look into this new company a bit more. 


Next up on the list: THE COLOR RUN!! So excited to run with the Sour Patch Kids and get all marked up with splashed of crazy colors!

40 Days Fit - Day 31

Today instead of working out I decided to tackle the mess and clutter my room has slowly creeped into. Last night at the BeltLine run, I twirked my knee and almost busted my face and knees, but somehow caught myself. Last night it was fine, but today it has been hurting all day, so I probably need to give it a rest until tomorrow when I am running the Atlanta Women's 5K.

I also wanted to cook for the first time in a long time tonight, but really didn't make the time or put in the effort to go to the grocery store. But, I know what I want to make the next time I am thinking about what to use my "master chef skills" to make. Find here my top picks for the next few weeks:

Almond Butter Banana Chocolate Chip Muffins from Made By Girl

Korean Spicy Quick Braised Tofu from Week of Menus

Chicken Parmesan Wraps from Can You Stay for Dinner?

I'm also brainstorming what to make for my friend's birthday this weekend... Full out baking coming her way!

40 Days Fit - Day 30

Ten more days, I can't believe it! I am almost at the end of this "challenge", but I am sure it won't change much after Lent is over. I have felt so great recently and have noticed a big change in my attitude and my physical well-being. It is true that the body is all tied together. If either your mental or physical state is in need of some TLC, the other probably needs some help as well.

Tonight, I did my first non-race group run. If you haven't heard of the Atlanta BeltLine, it is a great project that is truly revitalizing Atlanta. All of the unused railroad tracks that go around the inside of Atlanta are being ripped up and their paths are being changed into a running and bike path that is truly connecting all of Atlanta.

One of their big sections of the project is the Atlanta BeltLine Running Series. They have 2 5Ks and one 10K set for this year and in 2011, but they also have free group runs sponsored by local restaurants.

Today was their 2nd group run of the year, and I could not wait to stretch my legs and meet some awesome runners and local Atlantans. We all met at Park's Edge, then headed out on the 3-ish mile run. The pollen was terrible, it was hot, but the run wasn't terrible. A lot of the areas we went through were the same ones that the Georgia Publix Half this weekend had taken me through.

After the run was the best part though. I managed to finish more towards the front of the group, and got first pick on the beer and food laid out. I grabbed a Sweetwater Georgia Brown (yum!), the chicken on a stick, and a piece of steak on toasted sourdough. There were a few other things out, but right after running and a beer I couldn't put much in my stomach.

The best part about the run though was meeting several people that all were into the same things I love - running, beer and better choices for your health. Being in an atmosphere like that makes me really want to get my running club going. I would love to have it weekly, since the BeltLine only has about one run a month and I could deal with this type of scene a lot more. I met a few people, even handed out my business card, and can't wait to see some of these people again and meet more people with the same interests as me! It was really a great event that the BeltLine and Park's Edge put on.

40 Days Fit - Day 29

Finally! I have finished my book "In Defense of Food" by Michael Pollan. I had seen it on the shelves for a while, had heard about Pollan's no-fuss. straight-forward writing style and the lessons that this book would be able to teach.

It is a quick read, so I would recommend reading it more than me explaining it. I could tell you quick facts, but Pollan connects things in way that make perfect sense and make you question how you eat and what you eat.

The overall theme of the book is that nothing can trump nature in regards to food. There is no mimicking the "Mediterranean diet" by taking parts of it, and it doesn't help just to take Vitamin C pills versus eating a real, ORGANIC orange. Things work well as they are, from the soil, and no scientist has yet been able to copy it perfectly. Food works better as a whole than as its analyzed parts.

If you have the time (such as your lunch break like I do), read this book. It may help you make small changes in your diet, and Pollan leaves a few simple rules at the end to help you make these easy changes.

40 Days Fit - Day 28

You know what hurts more than a half marathon? Running after a half marathon. I woke up early this morning after a long night, waking every hour, to go for a run outside. At 6:30am, I made it outside for what I was planning on being an easy 30 minute run.

It turned into more like a 35 minute walk/run. My muscles are still so tight, my blisters were throbbing as I was pounding pavement, and the lingering runner's gut I had all day Sunday made me feel like I had thorns being tightened around my stomach. It didn't go as planned, but it was a chance for me to soak in the atmosphere of a still sleepy Atlanta. I passed by a handful of runners, a group of early morning bootcampers, and a few cars every now and then. Atlanta was still quiet. It was a little creepy, but at the same time put me at ease.

I think I need a running partner that 1. Would be willing to run with me at 6:30 in the morning and 2. Wants to train for a half marathon. Anyone interested?

The highlight of my day though was my dad dropping by. We installed a fan into my room (finally, air!) and grabbed dinner at Olde Town Tavern. Never again will I go there! The food wasn't bad, but it was uncomfortable almost being with my dad and seeing the waitresses. They were all dressed in black, if you could call it dressed. Honestly, I couldn't tell if this was a strip club or a sports bar. Please ladies, you will not get a bigger tip looking like that, especially when I see your fat rolls hanging out of your too tight shorty-shorts... yuck. I hope I'm not ever perceived like that by someone else.

But besides the waitresses, it was really hard eating out and trying to stick with a healthy diet. I hate going out for dinner thanks to that fact. It seems every time you sit down, you are going to double your calorie intake for the day. It is such a cause of frustration for me, and something I am working on. I also have to be more "demanding", such as tonight when I got veggies instead of fries, and also asked for them to steam rather than use butter. It may be a little extra to ask, but that alone saved approximately 100 calories. It's a treat, not an every day affair. I'm still learning.

40 Days Fit - Day 27

In 2 more weeks, lent will be over and this "40 Days Fit" Challenge will be over. Within that time, I have 2 more races: The Atlanta Women's 5K and the Color Run. The Atlanta Women's 5K will be the one I may actually try for time, but the Color Run will be just a complete fun run.

For the next 2 weeks, I'll also be focusing on weight loss rather than timing and distance running. Especially once 5K season really starts, the slimmer you are, the faster you run. In retrospect, I am a "fat" runner. I don't consider myself fat, but running requires you to stay slim so you can keep your time down and your joints healthy. The next 2 months are big season for 5k, so it's a good time to get down to racing weight again.

5k season also coincides with swimsuit season... Luckily!

40 Days Fit - Day 25 & 26

I'm so happy to say that I beat my Half marathon PR and goals today! At 1:54, I broke my previous time of 2:04. My goal for this race was to beat 2 hours, and I did it!

I think a lot of the frustrations from the past day made me really push hard. The night before the race, I went to Buckhead for literally ONE beer for St. Patrick's day. After hopping a few bars with Katy and Angela, I walked back to my car at their apartment. Stupidly, I had forgot to display the parking pass on my rearview, and I was welcomed by a boot on my car and a notice. My phone was almost dead, it was 10pm already, and I was waking up at 4:30 in the morning for the race. After an hour, I finally got the boot off and paid a nice little fine. There was nothing I could do about it. 

Getting to bed at 11:30, I was harshly woken up by my 4:30am alarm... buzzing again and again relentlessly telling me it was time to go. I rolled up and out, grabbing my bag, number, ipod and a quick breakfast: oatmeal, apple sauce and a few strawberries. I had really debated the night before skipping the race, but when I got there I was happy I made the right decision to go. 

If you have never been to Centennial Olympic Park, it has one of the best views of Atlanta, surrounded by building like CNN, the GA World Congress Center, World of Coke, the Aquarium, and my favorite, The Westin. I checked in my gear and just sat in the field, with all of the buildings glowing in the still very dark early morning. 

I tried to find the 2:00 pacer, but she was difficult to find. I think she didn't get there until late. So, I paced myself, making sure I was hitting 9:09 per mile. The first few miles I was a little over, but gradually the time kept climbing down. At mile 8 and 9, runner's high hit and it felt so great! Then my feet started aching the last 2 - I could feel the blisters. I was ready to be done, but kept pushing thanks to my motivation of hitting under the 2 hour time. 

I finished finally - clocking in at 1:54:21. My trainer was also running, and I may have checked her time.  She ran 1:52:36, so I felt pretty great with my time comparatively! I'll be happy telling her my time tomorrow. I also saw some AWESOME runners today, 3 of which really stood out:

1. The man running in a full fireman's uniform: suit and tank 

2. For weight loss motivation, one man had a photo screened on his back. It was him probably 150 pounds heavier, and the shirt said "never again"

3. Finally, the most amazing was the man who had no legs, and was using running prosthetics, defying the odds. 

Those people are the kind that keep you motivated. Right now, I have the urge to do another. I know I need a break, and luckily marathon season is winding down due to the heat kicking up. I experienced some dehydration today, so having a break sounds like the perfect idea, but I can't wait for bling season to start up again in October. 

40 Days Fit - Day 24

This past weekend, my shuffle had gotten stolen. Luckily, they're only $50, but still... how annoying is that? I finally sucked it up after using my iphone for the past week (luckily I didn't have any outdoor runs, just treadmill work) and therefore didn't need the little shuffle.

For me, I love music. I have it on constantly, searching for wide ranges of music for any difference situation. Running, however, requires a special pace and tune. If it's too slow, I get bored and unwilling to push myself. If it is all over the place, I get annoyed. It's a balance, and everyone has different tastes in what they prefer.

But the one type of music that always seems to get you pumped? Mashups. You usually know the songs, the artists, but it takes something seen as "old" or "used" and creates an entirely new view. Mashups have been something coming more mainstream recently, with artists like Girl Talk, White Panda, Germany and Milk Man. I've listen to all, and even after a while, you get bored of these.

When I was listening today to music, trying to find some new tunes for my newly purchased pink shuffle, it came to me. Mashups are nothing new. They are from cheerleading competitions! I just didn't see it in this context, since in cheerleading you have a few call outs built within the 150 second song mix.

Funny how these "faux-hipster" crowds are supporting one of the groups I think they despise - cheerleaders... We are all connected and influenced by each other, somehow.

40 Days Fit - Day 23

Finally! It is Peachtree Road Race registration time. I thought instead of talking and babbling on about my workouts (because honestly, I don't feel like talking about them much at this point), I'd give you some insight on what this race is and WHY it is so cool (and why I'm definitely going to be disappointed if I'm left ticket-less).

The Peachtree started in 1975, with about 100 Atlanta Track Club runners and a sponsorship from Carling Brewery. The next year, the amount of runners doubled, up until today when they are currently accepting 60,000 people! The first year I ran, I believe that there were 55,000 runners (2003).

This is the 10th year that I would be running the Peachtree. I'll most likely run by myself, or friends, but the first year I ran when I was 13 I was with my dad. I remember how we ran on the UPS team and it was such a big accomplishment when we completed it!

Tomorrow is a friend at work's birthday, so I baked for the first time in over a month! Me? Not bake for a month... yeppers! I made fudge cake with a strawberry cream cheese frosting. I'm hoping these little babies will be a hit in the office.

I also have a confession to make - I like batter much better than cake, and I like icing by the spoonful rather than on that cake. I know, it's weird, but that's the life of a sugar-holic.

40 Days Fit- Day 22

I opened my email and found a new message today, saying that I had a scheduled trainer visit in a few hours. What? It was around 5 and I was dead tired at work. I could barely keep my eyes open, and I thought that I would just be able to go home and relax - my trainer was scheduled for Thursday, right? Wrong...

So, I went. I pushed, not as hard as usual, but still a great workout. The good thing about having a trainer is that they never let you reach a level that you are comfortable with. They fatigue you and push you past the reps you though you could do.

Today I also found out that my trainer will be doing the half Sunday as well, along with a few other people from the gym. Looks like I'm not going to be able to skip out on this one (not like I was planning to anyway). 4 more days!

Here is what my training looks like for the week before a big race. You always want to do enough to keep your legs "loose", not giving them enough time to go stiff, but not push them too hard to make then sore or tired on race day.

Monday: 30 minute run in the morning (3.5 miles) . Tough, completely worn lower body weights at night
Tuesday: 30 minute run in the morning (3.5 miles)
Wednesday: Weights, total body. Not too hard, but enough so you feel tired
Thursday: Cardio alternative to running (like spinning) for 45 minutes
Friday: Easy run for 30 minutes (about 3 miles)
Saturday: Elliptical, light jog, or even a fast walk for 30 minutes
SUNDAY - RACE DAY!

You also need to monitor what you are eating, drink lots of water, and keep away from too much alcohol or heavy foods. Trust me, this stuff will be felt even if you ate it 2 or 3 days earlier.

Tomorrow is also the start of registering for The Peachtree Road Race! Just a reminder, the Atlanta Track Club has all the details and how to try and get a number.

40 Days Fit - Day 21

My trainer and I talked a lot yesterday about what my new goals were going to be after I finish up this half marathon. Maybe a triathlon, maybe beating my 5k or 10k time (again), or training for more distance (gross!).

Sometimes it is hard to establish goals for the future, especially at a point in time where you feel so mentally drained like I do at the moment. Looking forward can be hard, but it is something that is needed and that I even need to do now. I am coming to the end of this half-marathon, and really excited to take a mental break from the pressures of distance training and motivating myself to constantly do something I'm really not too excited about. I really want to break 2 hours, so I'll be signing myself up to run with the pace team (or run just a little ahead of them for good measure), but I'm still not excited about Sunday.

I haven't had that real runner's high in a bit. I just want to run in order to enjoy myself, to stomp through places you may only drive past (or aren't allowed to drive past) and to get that dripping sweat pouring off me after a run that you can be proud of.

So, all in all, I really have no idea what I want my next goal to be. I know for a fact though that I don't want to do another half for a bit. Maybe not until the Atlanta Thanksgiving Half... But, we will see. For now, I am going to stick to 5ks, 10ks, and $25 T-shirts.

I am REALLY interested in starting a running club for those around my age in the Atlanta area. If anyone would like to help me with this new project, please join me! The Atlanta Track club has a great list of cool places to run around Atlanta, such as the Silver Comet Trail and Stone Mountains 2 routes, so I think it would be neat to do a weekend run with these different places and other fun routes rotating.

Atlanta is really lacking in some running clubs for my age, and I really would love for some other 20 and 30 somethings to join me! As soon as I get this on a roll, of course I'll be promoting it and getting people on board! Running social is a lot more fun than running solo, and you push yourself further than you think.

40 Days Fit - Day 20

It's a 5K, and you can do it.

Everyone needs to accomplish a 5K once in a while (or at least once). Again with my "it's an achievement" speech, but it really is. How many people can run a 5k? 100%... maybe just not all at the same speed, but that is ok. Being able to say you can run 3.1 miles at a time is an accomplishment.

When I did track in high school, my coach used to ask me if I would do the 2 mile loop with the "distance" runners, those who did the 1600 and 3200. I remember begging and pleading to get out of it because the thought of running for that long made me cringe. Fast forward 7 or 8 years later... and I've ran 26.2 miles all at once. I really want to go to my track coach and tell her this, because I am sure she wouldn't believe me.


A 5K is a great distance to train for. It is short enough that you won't get bored with training, and it is long enough to make you feel you reached a personal goal, especially when you are passing the walkers and kinda-sorta-not really runners. You can run for the whole time with this too without your body starting to ache and your knees screaming for relief.

I can't really offer suggestions on how to train for this race. Everyone is different, and I honestly haven't been a "couch to 5K" person in over 6 years. I don't really remember how to "start" running, since once you start you never really stop yourself. But, here are some great references I am always heading towards when I want to start training programs.

1. Map It from USATF - this website let's you plan out your route. You can't just focus on time, you need to also look at your distance (since you are training for distance). Here, you can also view routes others have created near you, or even make your own.

2. Run Georgia - to motivate yourself, sign up for a race! Then you'll have a deadline in mind. Be sure to pick a race far enough out so you can get your full training in before the big race!

3. Runner's World - also a great magazine, with questions to just about every running topic known to man (yes men, including bloody nipples)

4. Couch to 5K by Cool Runnings - I haven't used this schedule, but for starting out, I think it would be a great resource for creating a plan and getting your training together. I'd love to hear if anyone else has used this and what you think!

Also, check out my previous post about running gear. It would be really helpful!

Questions? Ask... Want a training buddy? Let me know! I'm always wanting to plan some runs with people. You push yourself more that way.

40 Days Fit - Day 18 & Day 19

I did not keep with my workout schedule this weekend. I finally had the chance for a break, with no actual commitments this weekend and I took full advantage of it. I enjoyed myself, getting a much needed break from the pressure I seem to pile on myself constantly. Atlanta was beautiful all weekend, so I laid by the pool, read, drove with the windows down, and walked everywhere I could.

I even got to head to the Atlanta Fish Market across the street for dinner with my mom on Saturday. We both got one of their delicious fish choices with the Salad mix, and it perfectly hit the spot! I haven't had fish in so long and it was a very welcome change to see the Red Snapper sitting on my plate, perfectly cooked and delicious in every way. 

After a full day of relax and as usual, time on the Buckhead night-scene, I was still dreading my scheduled 10-mile run. I think my phone was taunting me, because it sent me 3 or 4 separate reminders of what I was supposed to do today. Notice I said "supposed to do" - it didn't happen. About 10 minutes in, I was having a hard time breathing, felt no motivation to keep going and honestly just felt worn out. It was truly one of those days that I wanted someone to run with me and help push me. I wasn't motivating myself and I needed help.

I did get in the abs workout I described in an earlier post. If I could do that, I knew I would feel better. So, pushed through it, still wanting to just go back to sleep and collapse on my floor or bed for a little. I know my trainer is going to be disappointed in my workout today, so tomorrow I am sure she will kick my ass. Ouch...

There is a week left until the Publix Half Marathon. I cannot wait for it to be over. I am so sick of training for distances right now. I have been training for distance since June of last year, not taking a break since I leaped from my marathon right into the half-marathon. I'm doing too much. I asked one of my good friends who does triathlons and is a pretty avid biker for some advice. "You need to have more than just one (relaxing) weekend. You need to reach that point where you are tired of not training hard". That's advice I'll truly be taking to heart. You need a break to not have any goals and to just enjoy where you are, making the time to do other things you like to do that don't follow a plan. I am all about routine, and it helps and hurts me. 

6 more days until the half marathon, then hello fun 5K season. CAN.NOT.WAIT!!

40 Days Fit - Day 17

Down 4% in body fat. Wooo hooo! That's all!

40 Days Fit - Day 16

Today has been a day of indifference. I'm tired, but not. I want to not workout, but I should. I want to work, but don't know what to do... it's limbo on everything. These types of days are not my favorite, especially since I feel stuck. I feel like there is more that I could be doing, but I don't know what. I am terrible at not being busy, and maybe that is why I feel the way I do right now.

It may be because I am pretty sure I will be taking off the day from working out. I have been really tired all week. It's just one of those weeks. They always happen when you are wanting to push, but for some reason you just feel like you can't reach it.

Last night, my trainer literally laughed at me. I was pulling about 100 pounds up and down the turf track, back and forth, for more yards than I thought I was able. When I had one more up and back, after I thought I was going to crash, I blurted out "What did I do to deserve this?". It was what I felt. This is after I told her I kicked butt at my race Sunday. It was funny, but at the same time I was serious.

Then I realized - this is my choice. I want to push myself. I want to do better and be better. So, what did I do to deserve this? Nothing wrong, everything right. It just didn't feel like something I wanted to do at the time, but not everything you want is easy, and it shouldn't be.

During the session, I was also told by Bing that I should be doing ab exercises for about 10 minutes daily. Apparently you can't over-do abs. Not certain about this, but I'm going to start adding it into my routine. So, ten minutes a day, here is what I will be doing, starting today at home. These have been named some of the best ab exercises, and the ones that you can do at home without any special equipment. I'll be doing two, 30 second sets of each (totaling 10 minutes).

1. Bicycle Crunches
2. Toe Touchers
3. Crunches- Hands Overhead
4. Reverse Crunches
5. Alternate Heel Touchers
6. Plank
7. Traditional Crunches
8. Cross Body Crunch
9. Jackknife Sit-Up
10. Oblique Crunches

40 Days Fit - Day 15

Today, I am really tired. I've been feeling that way since I woke up. I had an insane amount of energy right before my run yesterday- I was literally dancing around my room to my shuffle before I actually started running. I am sure I looked completely ridiculous, but I was enjoying myself!

Weeks involve highs and lows - times you are on "cloud 9", times you just want to rest your head on the desk, times you can't seem to focus and times you feel like you can accomplish anything. When you keep feeling dragged down and worn out, you need to schedule time for yourself. If you miss out on a weekend with friends, or skip an exercise session (or two), it's ok. Know that you will be fine. You will bounce back, you will feel better and your productivity will sky-rocket.

I would love a vacation right now, even if it is just for a few days. I think it is needed. Basically, I need to schedule nothing for myself, which is hard to do. Now to just figure out when (and how)...

I'm limiting myself to 3 early morning sessions this week. 2 down, one more to go on Friday. Trainer twice this week (today and Friday). Running tomorrow for 5 miles. I think that's it. I'm ready for the weekend, and hopefully a little mental break.

40 Days Fit - Day 14

I headed home today for lunch. Sometimes you need to get out of the office, and it helps give you a mental break. Luckily, I am only a 10 minute drive away. Once it finally starts warming up, I think I'll head to Piedmont Park for lunch breaks, but for now, I head home or to Starbucks next door to my office to grab some Passion Tea.

But today I was warmly welcomed home and in from the chilly breeze out to the smell of my crockpot dinner cooking! I found an amazing recipe on Skinny Taste, and the crockpot always serves me right. Look at this! How could it not be absolutely delicious:

They recommend placing the mixture on rice, but I went with some crisp green lettuce. It was the perfect combination. I finally got to dig in after my chilly run down Peachtree, and the warm chicken and spicy vegetables really took the cold feeling out of my body.

I also went to Disco Kroger on Piedmont yesterday to get all of my stuff for the week. I will forever go there on Mondays now. Their huge produce section all looked amazing and fresh! I literally felt like I was in cook heaven! They had 10 for $10 Mangos stacked high, and I jumped on the deal. I can't wait to dig in to the ripe fruit tomorrow. I think the shabby produce season is finally starting to break away, finally...

As a high point to the day, I finally received my race results for the 10K I completed this Sunday. After being sick earlier that week, and heading into the cold morning with a goal of 9 minute miles, I ran a 49:51!! If you're doing the math (like me), that's an 8 MINUTE MILE!! I didn't think I would be able to do that, so it felt great when I crossed the finish line.

Like I've always said, running isn't the best feeling. People run for the accomplishment you feel and knowing you can push yourself. After this race, I felt like I was about to barf. I couldn't feel my feet, my stomach was in knots and I didn't know how I was going to walk all the way back (a whole 2 blocks) to my car. But, I was amazed that I pushed myself, that I placed 2nd in my age/gender group, and that I had blasted my previous PR. The course was extremely hilly, and at the end I knew I had given the race all I had. I can't wait to accomplish the challenge of beating this new PR.

40 Days Fit - Day 13

I can't wait to go home today. To do a little grocery shopping, to cuddle up in bed and to just do nothing sounds superb. I am not working out tonight, though not taking a "break" - I woke up early this morning as usual to do cardio. I'm feeling a little under the weather today. It's chilly out, and was yesterday too when I was running, so I think I may be a little sick thanks to the cold snap Georgia is having again. I hate sniffles.

Tonight I'll be trying out two new recipes (a dessert and a slow cooker recipe), so I will post them tomorrow and let you know how they go!

If you get the chance, head out for a run today. It is GORGEOUS outside, and I wish I was feeling well enough to push a little today, but I just need to get better. Even a mile or two will be sufficient today in Atlanta, just to get some (semi) fresh air in your lungs and some cool, shiny rays on your face!

40 Days Fit - Day 12

A friend asked me this weekend to provide some running tips for those that are just getting into it. Writing a condensed version of how I think people should start is difficult, so I'm breaking it up, getting into running gear basics for now.

Running isn't easy - it takes some mental strength, physical endurance, and a constant love-hate relationship. But, it is something you will never regret starting. It can be picked up anywhere, you can do it wherever, and you can brag about it a bit (think shirts, medals, swag bags... ). This morning was the InTown 10K, and I can definitely say having the right gear helped me beat my PR (personal record). More on this race to come.

To start off, you need the right shoes. I've tried just about every brand, starting with Nike to Asics to Mizunos and currently Brooks. I've completely fallen in love with the Ravenna 2 by Brooks. They are lightweight, provide the right support FOR ME and I've purchased them for my past 3 pairs. The best way to find the right shoe is to go to a running specialty store, where they may (and should) put you on a treadmill to watch you run. Then they bring out several recommendations for you based on what they observed. Don't pick the prettiest pair, pick the one that feels right FOR YOU. They are all going to be reliable options, but go with the best feel. You'll be in them, a lot, and you want to feel comfortable.

I also recommend investing in some actual athletic clothes - sweat wicking, compression, light-weight: These are all good options. If you are running in a normal t-shirt, especially during the summer and longer runs, you will quickly regret your cotton decision. Don't forget the right socks too. They are part of the "right" running wardrobe, and anything you can use to help your feet is something you should invest in.

Some additional investments I've made that have never proven me wrong: Spibelt, watch (just straight up time for me - I haven't gone fancy yet with a Garmin or lap watch, that's next), and FuelBelt. The Spibelt is great for shorter races and when you need to have your keys or phone. You can put a few things in it, and the items don't bounce around. Think of it as a helpful fanny pack. A lot of times during training, you are running based on time rather than distance, and having a watch for this is necessary.

Finally, there is the FuelBelt. It is nerdy, but for really long runs, it helps you so much. Being able to have water or powerade on your run is necessary. I used this a lot when I was running for 2 or more hours a day training for my marathon. I have YET to bring it out again though since I have kept under that distance as I am only training for a half.

Here is the FuelBelt disclaimer: DO NOT WEAR IT TO A RACE!! You will look ridiculous. They have water stations - use them. Many longer races also have powerade stations - use them. Do not bring your FuelBelt, or I and other runners will make fun of you behind your back, seriously. FuelBelts are great, but only in the right situation.

Any other equipment questions? Feel free to ask! I really do enjoy sharing what I use (and don't use).

40 Days Fit - Day 11

I finally found the solution to my sweet tooth! After baking the sugar cookies for last night, I couldn't get the cravings out of my head. After a little research, and a little trial and error this week, I found the perfect thing! And guess what... under 150 calories for a BIG serving.

In a microwaveable bowl, mix the following ingredients:
- 2 egg white
- 1/4 cup canned pumpkin
- 1 tbsp cocoa powder
- 1 tbsp flour
- Truvia sweetner (to taste). I use about a tablespoon

After whisked all together, throw in the microwave for 3 1/2 to 4 minutes, until looking a little matte and no longer shiny. This cake is thick thanks to the canned pumpkin, like a brownie, but not overwhelmingly chocolate. I added whipped cream since I like the mix between warm and cold/chocolate and vanilla.

In total, the cake is 95 calories. I added 4 tablespoons (30 calories worth) of whipped cream, so in total this dessert delight came to 125 calories. Plus, it has about 6 or 7 grams of protein. Yummmmy, and not bad for you!

Tomorrow is the InTown 10K in the Atlanta VaHi area. I just went to the gym for a little today and did the elliptical, since I am hoping to break my 10K PR time tomorrow. Results to come!

40 Days Fit - Day 10

25% of the way into this Lent challenge! I can't believe how quickly the days have been flying by, and my ability at actually keeping up with my writing. With my stint of being sick and headed into a (potentially) packed weekend, weather permitting, I wanted to share what supplements I've been taking for about the past month, and the reasoning behind each.

Supplements are important. There is no doubt about that. Especially when you are pushing your body, it needs an extra boost and some extra "healing power" that comes from supplements. Here is what I take:

Breakfast
- Glucosamine 500 and Chondroitin 400 (1 tablet)
- Fish Oil 1000 (1 soft gel)
- Vitamin B - Big100 (1 tablet)
- Multivitamin (2 tablets, which is one serving)
- CLA (1 soft gel)
- Cellucor D4 Thermal Shock (1 pill)

Lunch
- Fish Oil (1 soft gel)
- CLA (1 soft gel)
- D4 (1 pill)

Dinner
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin (1 tablet)
- Fish Oil (2 soft gels)
- CLA (1 soft gel)

Pre-workout, and when I need a snack in-between meals, I usually go for my Whey Isolate. One scoop per day is sufficient for me. I've also been using this in a little baking. Recipes to come!

So, what does each do?

Glucosamine and Chondroitin

• Helps with joint flexibility and health, especially my knees from running.

Fish Oil 1000

• Contains Omega-3s
• Healthy blood pressure and cholesterol
• Brain, skin, eye and joint health 

Vitamin B - Big 100

• Carbohydrate metabolism
• Energy production
• Proper nerve and muscle function
• Folic acid supports cardiovascular system
• Healthy hair and nails

Multivitamin

• Mine does not include iron. 
• Bone and metabolism support
• Immune system health via antioxidants
• Additional energy production

CLA

• Maintains lean body mass
• Supports your metabolism

Cellucor D4 Thermal Shock

• This is basically my cup of coffee in the morning - it wakes me up, and keeps me going
• I take the MINIMUM dosage
• Energy, focus and appetite supression

Whey Isolate

• Growth, repair and maintenance of body tissues (especially great to build back muscles after difficult training sessions)

 Before you start taking anything, do your research! I went into GNC with a solid plan, and then gained additional recommendations from my local rep. She also helped eliminate items she saw as unnecessary from my supplement routine. If you are going to start with supplements, you have to keep up with them. No skipping! Their effects and benefits will be eliminated if you aren't regularly taking them.

40 Days Fit - Day 9

Well, I feel much better. This morning was a rough start, but after the initial "I still feel like I'm going to pass out" while I was eating breakfast with a client, the day moved upwards. I was busy at work, I got some new things rolling, the dizzy feeling went away AND I got a quick run in. As expected, the short 3 miles felt  somewhat difficult, but it was so nice outside that I had to take advantage of the day that was left.

I also realized that I think my body shut down yesterday due to stress. I have been jumping between many things in my life, with work, the gym and social times, and I didn't take time to just relax. My body finally gave in to the amount of non-stop I put it through, and it made me realize that sometimes you just need to STOP. I love being busy, whether with friends, at work or at the gym, but no one can do that all the time. There comes a point when your body just shuts down, and that is how I felt yesterday.

One thing that always relaxes me though, and totally against my "40 Days Fit" - baking. I'm headed to a friend's tomorrow, and they requested some of my sweet delights, so I felt obligated (and also really wanted to) bring something. Luckily, sugar cookie mix and confectioner's sugar was stored in my pantry. I made these tasty little sugar cookie and icing treats for tomorrow, and I also mustered up enough will power to not even take one bite. Instead, I just popped in some Stride gum and went to my yummy-work. Tomorrow's plan is to get up early, quick cardio, work, then head right to my session with Bing, then off to the party. It is going to be a long Friday...