tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-60289612179548737132024-03-12T17:26:36.114-07:00Full House of RoyalsWorking wifey and mom of 4 doing her best to maintain a healthy, fit lifestyle while juggling it all and doing it in style while having lots of fun along the way. Is that possible? I am trying my darnedest!
Fashion finds, outfit ideas, workouts, smoothie recipes, positive energy as well as parenting "a-ha's" can be found here.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02355048808638459444noreply@blogger.comBlogger126125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6028961217954873713.post-49625928088788198182018-03-26T08:36:00.002-07:002018-03-26T08:36:47.799-07:00New home!I’ve been absent here for some time as I’ve been busy building a new website with its very own blog page! Yay!!<br />
<br />
It’s a slow process as I’m doing it all on my own (among other thousands of things on my plate).<br />
<br />
Thank you to all who frequent this page!<br />
<br />
Please come visit my new page and accept my apologies in advance for its fluidity as I navigate the process. Also, follow me on my other social media sites (that I’m better versed in) 😊<br />
<br />
On Facebook and Instagram: @fullhouseofroyals See links below:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://m.facebook.com/fullhouseofroyals/?__nodl&refsrc=https%3A%2F%2Fm.facebook.com%2Ffbrdr%2F274%2F478049032528178%2F%3Fref%3Dexternal%253Awww.google.com&ref=external%3Awww.google.com&_rdr">Facebook</a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.instagram.com/fullhouseofroyals">Instagram</a><br />
<br />
On YouTube (yes, I’m warming up to that too): <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCogclzECxdowk5v1jXnr6WQ">YouTube</a><br />
Let’s not forget <a href="https://mobile.twitter.com/valofthevilla">Twitter </a> and <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/valofthevilla">Pinterest</a><br />
<br />
And finally, the blog page to my website (eeeek!) - the rest of the site is still under construction, thanks for your patience!!<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.houseofroyalsfitness.com/blog/">https://www.houseofroyalsfitness.com/blog/</a><br />
<br />
Please register while you’re there, don’t miss out on new content, website changes and fun collaborations and giveaways in the works. ;)<br />
<br />
Thank you and see ya there!!<br />
<br />
Valerie<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02355048808638459444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6028961217954873713.post-42343541285094967042017-10-25T13:33:00.000-07:002017-10-25T13:52:04.267-07:00What is thing you call Macros?...and why are you counting them?<br />
<div>
<br />
<div>
I have been counting macros for several months now but I too looked at this word with wonderment before that.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Macros are short for "macronutrients" and simply put, they are what are bodies need to create energy found in foods. They are things like "Fat", "Carbohydrates" and "Protein" which are much more familiar terms.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We've seen labels on food with things like "Low Fat, Low Carb, High Protein" and every combination with the word "Calorie".</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Here are how they are related to one another:</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Fat - provides 9 calories per gram</div>
<div>
Carbs - provide 4 calories per gram</div>
<div>
Fat - provides 4 calories per gram</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So that's what they are. Not too complicated, right?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Why count them versus calories? </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We know that if we want to LOSE weight, we must be in a Caloric deficit each day. This means that if say, your daily Calorie intake should be 1800, you should be below or at that daily to start seeing a change in weight (without taking exercise and other things into consideration).</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The thing is, if you are trying to build muscle rather than just move the number on the scale, eating the wrong calories (despite their totals each day) can be hindering you from achieving those goals.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So how do you figure out where to start?</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Step 1 - Identify your goals. What do you want to do? Build Muscle or Lose Fat? Many nutritionists recommend the following proportions (I'll link references at the end)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Lose Fat: </div>
<div>
C 35%</div>
<div>
F 20%</div>
<div>
P 45%</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Build Muscle:</div>
<div>
C 35%</div>
<div>
F 25%</div>
<div>
P 40%<br />
<br />
Step 2 - Use a calorie calculator to figure out what your daily caloric needs are. Here is free one to try:<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.freedieting.com/tools/calorie_calculator.htm">Calorie Counter</a><br />
<br />
Step 3 - Enter your result into a nutrient calculator to figure out your daily macro breakdown based on the ratios above that match up to your goals.<br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.freedieting.com/tools/nutrient_calculator.htm?cals=1916">Macro Calculator</a><br />
<br />
This will provide you with a total # of grams of each macro you should consume per day to achieve your goals.<br />
<br />
Step 4 - Start tracking! Download an app like <a href="https://www.myfitnesspal.com/">My Fitness Pal</a> and start entering your meals.<br />
<br />
It will be a pain at first but try to keep things simple. My recommendation is to start by eating at home and preparing your own foods so that you know exactly what and how much your portions are.<br />
<br />
Little by little, as the end of each day comes around and you see how your macros stack up, you will quickly learn what you need to eat more or less of.<br />
<br />
For me, I didn't realize how little protein I was taking in and what little awareness of what proper portions were I had. Especially with junk food! Ack!!<br />
<br />
I will keep posting tips and tricks that find through other resources that I find helpful as well as great snacks and other easy meal prep ideas to help you through your journey.<br />
<br />
You will be using #IIFYM (If it fits your macros) in no time and a total pro and reading those nutrition labels! <br />
<br />
Let me know if you find this useful and if you have any questions!<br />
<br />
Valerie<br />
<br />
http://www.cookinglight.com/eating-smart/macro-diet-counting-macros-weight-loss-better-nutrition<br />
https://www.popsugar.com/fitness/Macros-Weight-Loss-41078725<br />
http://chapmanfitness.org/2016/10/21/macro-counting-101/<br />
http://www.mensfitness.com/nutrition/what-to-eat/beginners-guide-counting-macros<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<div style="box-sizing: inherit; font-family: "ps savoy", lora, georgia, "times new roman", serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-top: 20px;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: #666666; color: white; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLEAtOW35iXTrQJpdx8kwNyoy2xqX8j2gwkNbUmzzojJuvKLKe7BTKVVPCXPhgF5FJ7hj3O17La7FYDjL10if_shOYImEeJExb__piakT82XPU-XKqR1HvrG4vRmhcHikJR_HxxyT6nTM0/s1600/macro+goals.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: #666666; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="300" data-original-width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLEAtOW35iXTrQJpdx8kwNyoy2xqX8j2gwkNbUmzzojJuvKLKe7BTKVVPCXPhgF5FJ7hj3O17La7FYDjL10if_shOYImEeJExb__piakT82XPU-XKqR1HvrG4vRmhcHikJR_HxxyT6nTM0/s1600/macro+goals.jpg" /></a></span></div>
<span style="background-color: #666666;"><span style="color: white;"><br /></span></span><br />
<br /></div>
<div style="box-sizing: inherit; font-family: "ps savoy", lora, georgia, "times new roman", serif; font-size: 18px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-top: 20px;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02355048808638459444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6028961217954873713.post-76738149726720499532017-06-28T08:39:00.000-07:002017-06-28T08:39:47.208-07:00Bike MS this Fall!Quick update!<br />
<br />
I will be riding in the MS150 Ride to the River this Fall. It will be a journey from San Antonio to New Braunfels and back on October 6-7. I have done the Houston to Austin ride twice before with a corporate team. I mainly did it for physical challenge and to support a great cause but I didn't really know anyone that was affected by MS. It was quite emotional, however, to go along the route and read the signs from those who are affected. It is inspirational and motivating to keep pedaling no matter how hard the wind is pushing back or hot your quads are burning, knowing that you CAN do it and are doing it for those who no longer can. <br />
<br />
This time, I am riding because the sister of a dear friend was diagnosed. She is young and full of life and I have seen how quickly her lifestyle has been impacted by this disease.<br />
<br />
I am riding for her and for the hopes that the monies raised can help fund progress in research and ensure that people like her, affected by MS can live their best lives.<br />
<br />
Please consider helping me reach my fundraising goal and/or joining my awesome team FLITE! <br />
<br />
<a href="http://main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR/Bike/TXHBikeEvents?px=16123668&pg=personal&fr_id=29052" target="_blank">Bike MS - Valerie's fundraising page</a><br />
<br />
You can follow my training journey on instagram @fullhouseofroyals<br />
<br />
Thank you!<br />
<br />
ValerieAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02355048808638459444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6028961217954873713.post-34158024757520994312017-05-02T14:59:00.005-07:002017-05-02T14:59:57.326-07:00Working out with an Injured Foot<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
If you have slowly worked on your fitness journey over time and finally have it in a place where it's become habit or better yet, a lifestyle, the idea of going into surgery and a long term recovery can really set you in a tailspin. It's frustrating enough not being able to do the things you love like running or cycling but to also lose the muscle tone you've worked so hard for can be a little depressing too.<br />
<br />
I'm lucky enough to have made it through foot surgery and my first week post op recovery fairly well. I've been cleared to do core and upperbody exercise too. Lower body exercises and cardio are pretty much off limits for the time being so I thought I'd strictly focus on getting my abs ready for bikinis and arms ready for tank tops since Summer is right around the corner! Silver lining!<br />
<br />
My next appointment is coming up later this week but when I get there, my first question will be if I can add lower body exercises that don't infringe upon my foot or require any weight bearing on it.<br />
<br />
I've been putting a list of ideas to put a regimen together that can be helpful to other people working out while they have a bum foot or leg and don't necessarily want to lose all the muscle gains in their legs and booty (like me). <br />
<br />
<b>Cardio:</b><br />
Swimming and or Aqua Jog - Depending on the injury, this could be a possibility (maybe later on for me) because it is low impact.<br />
Arm Cycle / Bike /Ergometer - Exactly how it sounds, basically cranking your arms around in circular motion (forwards and/or back) with added resistance and speed. (I found this machine at the gym yesterday right when I was walking out - seems like a great way to get the heart rate up!<br />
<br />
Because I like to be thorough, I did a little search and also found some other upper body cardio that you can do from bed! LOL. Here is the video for your enjoyment:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTsiyT3B4CFK4dv9dsAOjIbajJ49B_ccHAzES5lqJ6yPzPcaaeQX_xk96JLPuCTou8obxe844MwUS2BUwxu2NvZzH_pujkehHkVr2_jrCP0wbN9Q2TLqLcMfAmT_ASILAiL_UXvmjstcZI/s1600/armbike.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTsiyT3B4CFK4dv9dsAOjIbajJ49B_ccHAzES5lqJ6yPzPcaaeQX_xk96JLPuCTou8obxe844MwUS2BUwxu2NvZzH_pujkehHkVr2_jrCP0wbN9Q2TLqLcMfAmT_ASILAiL_UXvmjstcZI/s200/armbike.jpg" width="185" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Arm Bike </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/LtrciwU4Fbo/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/LtrciwU4Fbo?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<b>Glutes/Quads/Hammies (machines):</b><br />
<br />
Seated hip adductor & abductor machines<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy6TFhiDWPieSe0AFCQ3kWMU6EAtc5ueXAgRQXM71C2nvE7rP8o7k4q14NxA-gUGUqUktPyu2-VDMXq8qRD51gQ-0z9gE_Eof_X1-uhOX7k5NvDxbYRN1Q22B2sTBcgg2bfI0uGQ51cTW0/s1600/hipadductor.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="120" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiy6TFhiDWPieSe0AFCQ3kWMU6EAtc5ueXAgRQXM71C2nvE7rP8o7k4q14NxA-gUGUqUktPyu2-VDMXq8qRD51gQ-0z9gE_Eof_X1-uhOX7k5NvDxbYRN1Q22B2sTBcgg2bfI0uGQ51cTW0/s200/hipadductor.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Adductor (Inner thigh, hip flexors)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirG_9TGGjJLJ0YuuvKmwxYNFL0oJe0dSkit63uWnqcBYWtkUghrgLaKhL6hTW5f0ZVO_MT_bkxuLocVDMezMNwxT2bUffgyWXEEJc7y9aULtnVeI3d80GfFcGSjuqlrZzKKWt2-KGXnadb/s1600/widget-graphic-hipabductor-sm.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="125" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirG_9TGGjJLJ0YuuvKmwxYNFL0oJe0dSkit63uWnqcBYWtkUghrgLaKhL6hTW5f0ZVO_MT_bkxuLocVDMezMNwxT2bUffgyWXEEJc7y9aULtnVeI3d80GfFcGSjuqlrZzKKWt2-KGXnadb/s200/widget-graphic-hipabductor-sm.png" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Abductor (Gluteus Medius & Maximus)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />Body weight exercises:<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
There are a bunch but Caroline Jordan has a couple of YouTube videos demonstrating some. Take a look, I am going to be doing these as soon as I get the go ahead!<br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/rCDRf7bEFNA/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/rCDRf7bEFNA?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/s-nTG_3OFWs/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/s-nTG_3OFWs?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Hope you find these helpful and get motivated to get your exercise in despite the injury. Just be sure to talk to your doctor FIRST and get them ok'd and listen to your body. You'd hate to add injury and recovery time to your sentence!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Best,</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Valerie</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02355048808638459444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6028961217954873713.post-46560587574718395612017-04-18T14:04:00.000-07:002017-04-18T14:04:00.860-07:00So...it's my butt's fault.<br />
Glute imbalances are at the root of many injuries. My podiatrist, carefully listened to all my biomechanically related injuries that led me to him in our first consultation. He said that aside my foot causing me to overcompensate, my injuries are likely stemming from Glute imbalance. He is a multi-Ironman athlete himself and well versed on running injuries and luckily, he also had a student resident in the room at the time whom he was quizzing through our conversation. <br />
<br />
He explained muscle imbalances and how likely it is that my weak glute has caused strain on my hamstring whereby affecting my knee and IT Band. Sounds all too familiar. <br />
<br />
He quickly ran a test on me to show her and prove his hypothesis. Sure enough, my left glute is much stronger than the right. He suggested that I do only glute exercises focusing on the right side until I am back in balance or in symmetry. He literally dropped to the ground and demonstrated some exercises. Gotta love his commitment to the cause! <br />
<br />
Since then, I have done a little research and found some great articles on the subject. I have surgery scheduled in a week for my foot so I have that much time to cram for finals in strengthening my right booty before I have to go on "no exercise". Ugh. I am NOT looking forward to that!<br />
<br />
Here is an article on how to test to see if you have a Glute Imbalance on your own <a href="https://bretcontreras.com/how-do-i-know-if-i-have-a-glute-imbalance/" target="_blank">here</a> . <br />
Also from "The Glute Guy" <a href="https://bretcontreras.com/how-to-fix-glute-imbalances/" target="_blank">Bret Contreras</a> and his site, a great article on how to fix these imbalances. Check them out!<br />
<br />
Here is another great article on muscle imbalances and functional movement screen test : <a href="http://dailyburn.com/life/fitness/muscle-imbalances-functional-movement-screen/" target="_blank">here</a><br />
and the Functional movement website has a library of exercises<br />
https://www.functionalmovement.com/exercises<br />
<br />
Amazing how the human body works. I always find these things fascinating and get lost in all the research and findings out there.<br />
<br />
Hope these are helpful to you. Now, I am off to work my bum. The right one that is. ;)<br />
<br />
ValerieAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02355048808638459444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6028961217954873713.post-89179013672332125292017-03-22T10:27:00.000-07:002017-03-24T09:18:29.046-07:00Everything but the kitchen sink update. Consistent, I am not. I guess I've taken to microblogging after all. I remember trying Tumblr and I just never got the hang of it. Instagram is more my jam. Lol.<br />
<br />
So, if you want to see daily updates on my fitlife journey, go check them out there. <complete id="goog_963918038">@fullhouseofroyals </complete><br />
<br />
For those of you who come here often, thanks! And...sorry, for being MIA. <br />
<br />
Here's a quick update on what's up since my last post (<a href="http://fitforbaby.blogspot.com/2017/01/25-days-to-go.html" target="_blank">25 days </a>til that Half Marathon that happened almost 2 months ago, whoops)<br />
<br />
Well, 4 days after that post, I went on a long training run (14 miles). Something felt "off" but I figured it was something that would shake off as the miles went on. Long story short, it didn't and I injured myself by continuing. I'd give the details of the injury except, here we are almost 3 months later and I am still dealing with it and STILL uncertain of exactly what the heck it is.<br />
<br />
It's basically hamstring/glute/sciatica with a sprinkle of foot pain and a whole lot of biomechanical problems. I've been to an ortho, chiropractor, had knee and lower back xrays and even a knee MRI along with stem therapy, ice therapy, cryotherapy, massage therapy, stretching, physical therapy and finally active release technique therapy which seems to be aggressively working each annoying area. There has been improvement, but ever so slight. 2 1 milers is all I have run since the half marathon.<br />
<br />
Oh, yea. The half marathon. I'll have to get around to writing a race report on that. But the gist is that I stopped running cold turkey after that training run. Not really by choice. I just could. not. run. The shooting pain in my leg with every step was ridiculous. But, it was a destination race. Flights were bought, hotel was reserved AND my friend/coach signed up and was coming to run the full marathon too. I was definitely going to Miami!!<br />
<br />
My attitude was always that I would show up. I was uncertain if I'd even participate but I would be THERE. Going to packet pick up and seeing the excitement around the race area (our hotel was a few blocks away), I knew that I WOULD participate. I planned to walk it with as much strength I could and hoped that walking for that long wouldn't be utterly painful.<br />
<br />
I showed up. I walked with the rest of my corral up to the starting mat and then I ran. I ran and ran and never stopped until I crossed the finish line. And I knew that when I stopped, the pain would be rushing in. And I was right. I got a PR, an awesome medal and some amazing appreciation for my life and all that is in it. Deep, I know, but it was truly a mind over matter race and I had all the feels.<br />
<br />
I hobbled profusely for a couple of weeks after. I could barely walk. Followed by all the therapies I mentioned above in 2+ months time, I have run 2 1 milers, like I said. The most recent, YESTERDAY. <br />
<br />
We are still working through it and I am told I need to lay off glute exercises for the time being to let things just calm down.<br />
<br />
I suspect that doing a 40 day yoga challenge (5 days a week of intense yoga practice) while maintaining a weight training, spin (we got a peloton!) and pilates regimen didn't help in calming things down. Meh. It's too hard to remain idle.<br />
<br />
Oh yea, we also created a home gym. This is also worthy of it's own post which I will share soon when it is finally done. The joys of dealing with home renovation contractors. Haha.<br />
<br />
So that's a wrap. I've rambled long enough. So here's a funny pic as a reward if you are still here.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDRhuks-awp28_j_bR4yUMCmsH1jSozTlBsYj-PZB_3ifo4GmUgQ4nZLfys6yyRIj1RjZ_Q6I1wu6atPG_cDkqQx2aHeaGlTMbH-WudEnJ7clHYMG4a5d8FLjfMynKzqSjQXnGOsH98gV9/s1600/blah-blah-blah-82bgg0.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDRhuks-awp28_j_bR4yUMCmsH1jSozTlBsYj-PZB_3ifo4GmUgQ4nZLfys6yyRIj1RjZ_Q6I1wu6atPG_cDkqQx2aHeaGlTMbH-WudEnJ7clHYMG4a5d8FLjfMynKzqSjQXnGOsH98gV9/s640/blah-blah-blah-82bgg0.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Thanks for stopping by! Updates on the gym, Miami Marathon race report and 2017 Goals update soon!<br />
<br />
Happy hump day.<br />
<br />
Valerie<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02355048808638459444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6028961217954873713.post-60807192426928012332017-01-04T15:14:00.000-08:002017-01-05T10:08:14.963-08:0025 days to go...<div class="MsoNormal">
I haven’t said much about my #halfmarathontraining lately because
quite honestly, I was feeling a bit of in a slump. My body was feeling tired and close to
breaking and because of it, even the thought of running was unappealing. Perhaps I was nearing a burnout. Perhaps I just needed a good break. Perhaps the neurotic weather jacking with the
concept of seasons in this town finally got me. Or maybe it was the fact that I was
religiously taking the joint and amino acid supplements my chiro prescribed and
completely forgot to keep taking them after my return from Costa Rica. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Whatever the case, I was pretty much doing everything on my
training plan but I was struggling to hit the fast paces for long periods of
time. I was also having a really tough
time recovering from long runs. I felt
like I got hit by a bus and before I started feeling a little ok, I was up for
another long one. Of course, all that
physical stuff starts to creep into the mental space. Doubt about my abilities, my strengths, yadda
yadda.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Anyway, I knew something had to give. I just needed to get back on schedule,
FIRST. I had been shuffling the runs
around to accommodate the my schedule and honestly, the sloppiness of my plan
was starting to get on my nerves (why I hadn’t sent them to you lately, coach). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So this week, I am back on track. Sunday long run (although technical
difficulties and a new route threw my pace off) was done. Monday was an off day (though I worked my a$$
off on in the garage project) and yesterday I was set for “easy 3-6”. Except, I went back to work. I had a long work day with no lunch break so by the time I got home, I was beat. I almost ditched
it. Can you imagine, to come this far on
a clean slate and ditch it? Hell. To. The. No.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
It was late, but I laced up and took off into the night. Because it was so dark and late, I decided on just the 3, but it was also cold so my "easy" turned into a "fast". I was quite pleased with how I felt the whole time. I felt like I got my bounce back in my step and although I had another 7 miles to do in the morning, I was excited about them rather than apprehensive. I negotiated with myself that since I had run 3 fast, I could go easy on my 7, haha. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Sa1KP9Gqy9pEqzFFiSZWGnaotWGMHPVMcWf0ndvJzv33yecieN-LBBoYk5BPTPKwHhmNTcj2R-vlAEdC4kr2dw2DU3-ouaRoveG1Yf5ZJC49XMgbgd2z95RmVrOwF33r-c_yMpNRW0GP/s1600/Running.mov" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4Sa1KP9Gqy9pEqzFFiSZWGnaotWGMHPVMcWf0ndvJzv33yecieN-LBBoYk5BPTPKwHhmNTcj2R-vlAEdC4kr2dw2DU3-ouaRoveG1Yf5ZJC49XMgbgd2z95RmVrOwF33r-c_yMpNRW0GP/s1600/Running.mov" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTsL3ByCI9A7Gge1A-rD0QSJUWQ-FimNP9UunXMr2SjbWPA1uF20e1N6Ucz-Ax4RQQ95bCBZGB7LuqNpe_6N1SceID7DTYgCeY5kR8yvgXWpgkqvWCVfHYumzLxSW9bvAesbxgFzFpJWxr/s1600/Contemplation.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTsL3ByCI9A7Gge1A-rD0QSJUWQ-FimNP9UunXMr2SjbWPA1uF20e1N6Ucz-Ax4RQQ95bCBZGB7LuqNpe_6N1SceID7DTYgCeY5kR8yvgXWpgkqvWCVfHYumzLxSW9bvAesbxgFzFpJWxr/s320/Contemplation.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This morning, my plan was: "1 easy, 5 @ 8:30, 1 easy". Hitting an 8:30 for that many miles is hard for me. In fact, I have yet to do it. I have come close though. This morning, it was 45 degrees. It was windy, but absolutely gorgeous out. All my technology was charged and ready to go. I had some fuel (almond butter on raisin bread) and coffee (duh). I wasn't trying new routes where I'd have to resort to my map often. No excuse to not hit the pace. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I didn't dress in enough layers but I figured after the first mile or two, I'd be fine. And I was. I felt fantastic! I waited eagerly for the voice on my app to tell me at the end of each mile how I was doing. I guess I should be wearing my Garmin but I just rather not.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Again, my average speed kept dropping but my split speed didn't quite hit the elusive 8:30. Ugh! </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-KAwxu-dprH5D0yLp-pkJCBcAyYr1erQeQdmByXsO8bf9qdJTNYVnoZqXuaynf8nhKZS3a1IIcLGxiuLLOxFxdstkxxNTvtZjBt3HZJqp5lBJGdUQSYztL6E_wTlgSqw_JAV_OeChpFzb/s1600/splits+new+year.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-KAwxu-dprH5D0yLp-pkJCBcAyYr1erQeQdmByXsO8bf9qdJTNYVnoZqXuaynf8nhKZS3a1IIcLGxiuLLOxFxdstkxxNTvtZjBt3HZJqp5lBJGdUQSYztL6E_wTlgSqw_JAV_OeChpFzb/s400/splits+new+year.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">New life.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But then something happened. I changed my frame of reference. Rather than chasing it, I started thinking that I wanted to test my ability and gauge my race pace. So I started to do some math. My dad would be SO proud. I figured I would have to do a quarter marathon in an hour and an eighth in half an hour. So then, my goal was not to hit the mile pace at 8:30 but rather, hit 3.275 miles under 30 minutes. I did. By quite a bit. Then, I needed to hit 6.55 miles in an hour. I was so excited that I did that with room to spare. And guess what? I was almost done! By the time I got to that point, I should have been running easy but I figured I finish strong all the way home. Ultimately, I hit 2 miles under 8:30, 2 pretty close and 2 more under 8:45. That's 6 fast miles instead of 5 AND I had hit 2 miles close or under 8:30 the night before. Goal, check!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDCAHZOdJ3TUHjEjgqGCLFBJ7rqmTHjVDJV6kf6Zmeh2PSVCnzkYpPPJ5wOxkVfKODZI4KFfkVr1aMvsUL-bHlpeq9KV6CoRGQWoM2VTpBWIh3meoTcujZrbLnoiEKeZKQK6p5-BUQ496O/s1600/on+track.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDCAHZOdJ3TUHjEjgqGCLFBJ7rqmTHjVDJV6kf6Zmeh2PSVCnzkYpPPJ5wOxkVfKODZI4KFfkVr1aMvsUL-bHlpeq9KV6CoRGQWoM2VTpBWIh3meoTcujZrbLnoiEKeZKQK6p5-BUQ496O/s320/on+track.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
If I continued this thinking for another 3.275 or another 6.55 miles, I would have crushed my goal. This running thing is such a mental game. Granted, I have been taking my supplements again for the last 4 days without fail, I am drinking protein shakes immediately after workouts and in addition, I have added slow release Casein protein before bed. <a href="https://runnersconnect.net/coach-corner/what-runners-can-learn-from-bodybuilders/" target="_blank">Here is the link on why.</a> This could be a factor, the weather too, of course. But there is also will. My will to push when I think I can't. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
My body is back in, my head is back in and now the countdown is ON. Follow along, I'll try not go MIA again. Although, that is where I will end up. Ha! #seewhatIdidthere </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Oh, the photo of the plant up there...yea, that is a lemon tree that was literally next to the trash bin a few weeks ago. I thought it was dead and I was urged to just get rid of it. But my heart told me that there was still life in it. Somehow. And then, after not actually taking it out with the trash for a couple of weeks, I saw one little green leaf appear on the bottom. I rescued it, took it back and trimmed the dead trunk. The photo above was this morning. New life! Much like the the gratitude in my rescue dog Harley's tail, this tree has hope. And for whatever corny reason, I included it here because I do to.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Happy New Year all! Here is to a wonderful 2017!</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Valerie</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02355048808638459444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6028961217954873713.post-2555838933003351542016-09-13T13:11:00.001-07:002016-09-13T13:11:08.926-07:00Breaking in NRC - a preliminary app review<div class="MsoPlainText">
I got soaked at the first school drop off this morning but
luckily, I was wearing running shoes & shorts rather than my office work clothes.
After dropping the round of 5 kids, I decided to just go for my scheduled #NRC #run (since I was dressed for it and already in need of a shower). <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
I've been skeptical of the new Nike app update...I guess
I got really comfortable with Nike+ and it's quirky ways. Let's face it, change
is tough. And we are less tolerant of it when it's unexpected. Admittedly, I was kind of grump about it at first. "Where are my trophies?" "How do I add photos with the mile stamp on the bottom?" "How can I just push to Insta or Twitter?" "UGH! Why? Nike, I have no time for this!!" "and what is this feed?...who is reading this, who are these people?" With all the chaos in our daily lives, it's
nice to have that one thing you know what you can expect from.
#thanksforthecurveballNike <span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol";">😂</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisSe2EsTzsyyvmaCgulVAJVX2iZn3CxaqkBy0Dl41l9Mn9tw65w-o9dvvX7DrmVoCyIXvz038eLgJZ_MCwnKqkpwdt7pQAI2bM74ql88Sab5Ne3B0TxGPIu4BzbvUsMQbs5o9Tdn_x-ar0/s1600/change.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="283" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisSe2EsTzsyyvmaCgulVAJVX2iZn3CxaqkBy0Dl41l9Mn9tw65w-o9dvvX7DrmVoCyIXvz038eLgJZ_MCwnKqkpwdt7pQAI2bM74ql88Sab5Ne3B0TxGPIu4BzbvUsMQbs5o9Tdn_x-ar0/s320/change.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol";"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
Anyway, being my glass half full kinda self, I decided
I'd kick the tires on this thing & start a "training" program. I
throw the air quotes out there because I'm not really training for an official race (although, I have a marathon friend that I sense will soon be coming around to sell me on running one). What I AM doing, however, is trying to build my
endurance (ahem, speed really) so that #cardio won't be so miserable for me.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
I'm smart enough to know that I despise it right now 'cause I suck at it. Ha! The stronger & faster I get, the more I want to
run. I<span style="font-family: inherit;">'ve b</span>een down this road. <span style="font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol","sans-serif"; mso-bidi-font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol";">😒 </span><span style="font-family: inherit;">It's a hard road but I know what's on the other side.</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
So, I started a training program with the Nike Running Club "Coach". It lines out weekly schedules of runs to
help achieve those goals . I'm on week 4 and it's pretty slow going. I put in
a long timeline so I guess it thinks I'm a total beginner. I'm fine with that. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
**Here is the link to their official page that has all the deets: <a href="http://www.nike.com/us/en_us/c/nike-plus/running-app-gps/overview" style="font-family: "Segoe UI Symbol", sans-serif;" target="_blank">From the Horse's Mouth</a> ;) **</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
The schedules include benchmark, tempo, speed, recovery, long runs and rest days. I haven't followed it EXACTLY because most of the runs
thus far are too short. They can be great for gym warm ups but as a stand alone
workout, not enough. I generally run
minimum of 4, albeit slow, especially in the hot, humid, never ending Houston Summer
days. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
So today's (hopefully Part 1 of 2 #wod ) was a series of
3 runs. Two catch ups & today's scheduled. I figured they are all short enough that if I added them together I would get a good workout and still achieve the purpose of each run.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
1- 15 minute Benchmark Run - 7 min warmup, 3 min hard/fast (I was at
7.2 pace!) and 5 min cool down <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
2- Recovery Run - 1.5 miles easy run<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
3- Speed Run - 400x4 w rest in between <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
Total mileage: 4.5 <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
The runs have spoken cues which are a nice guide as to when to
speed up & slow down, a cool feature for sure. I'll be able to quickly see progress
in my benchmarks week to week. And it I think the program has a way of taking your performance to customize the future runs as far as providing a target pace. I'm excited about that. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
As far as the other questions I had above, I figured out how to do all those things but there is still a bit of a learning curve as to when the photo option comes into play. I think at one point, I ended a run and it didn't let me go back to add a photo. Baby steps, grasshopper. </div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
Change is uncomfortable but I sense these updates are the beginning of many more. I can tell that the coach feature is more robust than it was before. There are other features that I have even yet to try, I will log on to their website to learn more. The "Find Your Fast" program looks cool, even has Spotify Playlists for different Tempos. I may have to jump to that after this program that I am on. :)</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
Stay tuned to see how this all works out! In the mean time, I will leave you with this that I found on the Nike page that I really liked:</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<a href="http://www.nike.com/us/en_us/c/running/nike-run-club/seven-truths" target="_blank">Seven Truths </a></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
1- We are all Meant to be Runners.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
2- We are not Just Runners. We are Athletes.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
3- Every Run has a Purpose.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
4- Respect Every Workout. Fear No Workout.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
5- Embrace Your Weaknesses. Then Erase Them.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
6- Measure Success in as Many Ways as You Can.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
7- We Believe in You, Even if You Don't.</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
Cool, huh? I'm a fan of that. :)</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
Happy running all!</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
~Valerie</div>
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoPlainText">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02355048808638459444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6028961217954873713.post-69478402567403313502016-09-01T13:04:00.000-07:002016-09-01T13:04:29.716-07:00Back to School Season - Chock full of Busy! Back to School! Back to School!<br />
<br />
Those sometimes welcomed and sometimes dreaded three words are the beginning of a roller coaster ride of things to come in the very near future. Adjusting schedules, eating, sleeping patterns and getting school supplies and clothes for starters. Not to mention all the back to school fairs, meet the teachers, orientations, pep rally preparations, soccer practice, PTA and volunteering requirements that suddenly pop up to add to the calendar ALL AT ONCE. (Times 4 for me, yikes!!)<br />
<br />
Once the pre back to school madness passes and school actually starts, a new normal will start to set in. It won't be necessarily a smooth normal but a regimented, scheduled one at best. The most welcomed part of this whole ordeal for me is the sense of routine that we are forced to oblige to. <br />
<br />
This routine helps in figuring out exactly where the window for the most important things are. ME TIME. Ha! I kid (sorta) but honestly, as everyone in my house knows, if mama is happy, EVERYONE is happy. That ultimately means that mama needs a little "me" time. <br />
<br />
I guess we should preface this by defining what "me" time for a busy mom is. We are so used to being pulled in a million different directions that eating a hot meal at the table (rather than cold leftovers standing in the kitchen) could qualify...almost. The point is that we don't need much. As such, it is easy for it to be taken for granted and get pushed to "later", "tomorrow" or "Monday". Sound familiar? <br />
<br />
Our priorities are our families and we forget sometimes that WE are members of the family too. So, unless we DO something about it, our needs get to the bottom of the list. Because we know all too well that there is no squeakier wheel than a 4 year old Princess on a mission for (fill in the blank for any random rainbow thing). Hear me? <br />
<br />
While I was thinking of this, it seems it's a topic on most busy mom's minds too. I was contacted by my friends at <a href="http://tobesimplyhappy.com/" target="_blank">To Be Simply Happy</a> to guest post on their blog about this very topic. So rather than continuing on here, I wrote a whole new fresh post for them.<br />
<br />
Read my blog post there titled:<br />
<br />
<h1 class="entry-title" itemprop="name headline" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; background-color: white; border-bottom: 1px dotted rgb(168, 168, 168); box-sizing: border-box; color: #080808; font-family: Poppins; font-size: 38px; letter-spacing: -0.04em; line-height: 42px; margin: 0px 0px 18px; padding: 0px 0px 15px; text-rendering: geometricPrecision; word-break: break-word;">
Tips for Getting Back in Shape After the Summer Workout Slump!</h1>
<div>
Here is the link: <a href="http://tobesimplyhappy.com/tips-for-getting-back-in-shape-after-the-summer-workout-slump/" target="_blank">http://tobesimplyhappy.com/tips-for-getting-back-in-shape-after-the-summer-workout-slump/</a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Come back and let me know what you think about my tips. Hope you are all enjoying the back to school season! For me, it's been a good reminder about why I dropped out of my "pseudo" Ironman training last year. Here's a link in case you missed it: <a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=6028961217954873713#editor/target=post;postID=7821754579579225704;onPublishedMenu=allposts;onClosedMenu=allposts;postNum=27;src=postname" target="_blank">Post Of Shame</a> <br />
<br />
Helping a high schooler and middle schooler with homework or study habits while keeping a couple of preschooler's entertained can be quite a 3 ring circus. Did I mention that we also rescued a Chocolate Lab from the shelter and that he is AMAZING? Just another ring to our amazing, wonderful circus. I started an instagram account for him if you want to follow his journey @harleymakes7 Haha.<br />
<br />
Well, as expected, my time is up here. Hit me up on IG @fullhouseofroyals for daily posts (since I tend to go AWOL here). :)<br />
<br />
Ciao, Amigos.<br />
<br />
Valerie</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02355048808638459444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6028961217954873713.post-43718708715226092042016-08-02T12:18:00.005-07:002016-08-02T12:18:50.337-07:00Who lives, who dies, who tells your story?Ever look back at your life through the eyes of someone who you've just told your story to? Yea, me either.<br />
<br />
My life story seems to keep coming up and it's forced me to take a deeper, longer look back. I spoke with someone who explained that their own father had a fascinating story and that they tried to get him to record his story somehow so that they can pass it along over generations. Apparently, they only captured it in pieces due to technical issues and now all they have is that. Bits of pieces of history to pass along of their heritage.<br />
<br />
I have never thought my life story one of "documenting heritage" quality but then again, I was looking back in my own eyes. <br />
<br />
Have you ever told your child a story about your own childhood? Usually, you get an eyeroll when you talk about life pre-handheld devices. But if you told a teen child about decisions, events that occurred in your life at their exact same age, it seems to have more of an impact. My daughter and I shared this very experience recently. She asked questions and she keeps coming back for more as she absorbs some of it and applies it to her own situation. While travelling to my hometown on vacation recently, I found myself telling stories about life back then, there - by the water. The look in their eyes was enough to signal that there IS something here that is worthy of sharing.<br />
<br />
So, back to the original question. Who do you have to tell your story? Someone that doesn't know the WHOLE story? Someone that may know the facts but not the reasons or feelings behind certain decisions? Or the way you reacted to some of the obstacles thrown your way? Or maybe it never gets told and assumptions about how you got from point A to B will be made for years after you're gone?<br />
<br />
I don't have an answer but reflecting on the paths our lives take, the outcomes, the hindsight wisdom and the effects all of it could have on the next generations is in itself, fascinating. Wouldn't you agree?<br />
<br />
This could be an insightful project, no doubt. A project that could prove at times to be difficult but one that would also be fulfilling enough to tackle. Soon.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02355048808638459444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6028961217954873713.post-33465964070232110662016-07-18T10:35:00.002-07:002016-07-18T10:35:14.781-07:00Fitness and Me - A relationship historyIf you follow me on IG @fullhouseofroyals - you'd think I was a fitness fanatic and always have been.<br />
<br />
However, if you have followed me over the years here or on other social media or if you know me IRL, you'd know that I am either highly committed to the point of annoying or completely disconnected, uninterested and not giving of two shits with regard to exercise, fit and healthy living and all that jazz.<br />
<br />
I have had the benefit of genetics on my side for the majority of my life where when I heard "it's not fair, you're so skinny" it was really a true statement. It wasn't fair. I ate anything and everything whenever I wanted to. I did not workout and still fit in size 4-6 on the regular. That shit is just not right. Right?<br />
<br />
Well, skinny was ok then because I was young and lazy (and clueless). Then I had kid #1 & #2...and I was all "what the f happen to my hips?!" So like a woman with a mission, I worked my tail (pun intended) to get in shape. It worked, of course. I put in the time and commitment to exercise every day, even if for a little bit until I was back to my fighting self. (at least my clothes fit again)<br />
<br />
With 2 babies, I was on and off the workout wagon. I'd go a few months and then off. Again, no consistency. As they got older and I had a better handle of my schedule, I tried to make more of an effort. We had a home gym with the bench all the weights on it and a recumbent bike (which was my post baby savior) and that is all. I tried to go down there a few times a week for a little while but still not enough to be impactful. <br />
<br />
Then, my life turned upside down for awhile. I started riding my mountain bike on trails outdoors by myself. It was very therapeutic. You have a lot of time to think and reflect when you are on a long bike ride and you get to appreciate things that you normally would take for granted. Like the bunnies crossing the path or the beautiful vibrant colors in the birds or the crazy sounds of the water in the bayou or the cicadas in the trees.<br />
<br />
Finding solace on a bike was great but also very time consuming. Loading it up and getting all the gear up to the trail and back was a pretty big commitment out of any given day. Then one Summer in 2009 actually, I was sitting on the couch watching the IRONMAN championships in Hawaii on TV. You know how they cut away and do those inspirational stories about people overcoming huge obstacles and committing to doing something so massive for themselves, for a cause on behalf of someone else or just to prove that anyone CAN do whatever they set their minds to do? Yea, well...I was watching that and I can't remember what or who the story was but it inspired me. It motivated me. It MOVED me. Literally. <br />
<br />
I jumped off the couch, laced up my shoes and took off running. There may have been an f bomb thrown in the mix to the tune of "f this, I have to do something". I am not a runner. The only time I ever ran was in high school gym when we had to run around the track. Or if someone was chasing me, duh. (Actually, I take that back. I ran before that. When my sister in law was getting wedding ready and we lived in the same apartment complex, she started training for a half marathon. I trained with her on the treadmill until I hurt myself. I didn't really "train"...I didn't even own running shoes...just tennis shoes...you know the ones. I didn't know anything about heartrates, pace, nutrition, stretching...NOTHING. (it was pre-internet so ignorance was easy) I can't even remember how far I ever ran...4 miles? 6?) Sorry, tangent much? Heehee<br />
<br />
So I ran...I ran hard and fast and turned around and ran all the way in to my living room with fists in the air and a "HELL YEA!". It was Summer in Houston so probably also about 100 degrees outside. In the middle of the day. It was the worst time ever to try to take up running. But I did. Shoot, I didn't even know how far I went! Come to find out, I drove to my turning point and learned that I ran 2 miles roundtrip. WHAT?! Oh joy! <br />
<br />
What followed was trials and tribulations of doing something to my body that my body was just not used to. I learned a lot about shoes, pace, heart rate, gadgets, body mechanics, plantar fasciitis, IT bands, stress fractures, going out too fast, too hard, too slow too much too soon. All that. I did 5ks, 10ks and eventually my first ever half marathon. With all the injuries and still being green to it all, it was an overall 'Meh' experience. I found that my knees were weak, my hips tight and my heart not very efficient. But I also found that there was a sweet spot to this running thing. The first mile or two were pure crap. Everything cracked and your head goes through an inventory of all the things that hurt. I was looking forward to the next light post or tree to be my stopping point and I always pushed just a little further. But then, when you finally find a groove and you are already on your way back home you realize, hey...I can totally keep going. I'm going around the block again! No, I'm going around the neighborhood again! And 5 miles turns into 8 or 9. Runners high. It's a real thing.<br />
<br />
Prior to this run epiphany, we as a couple, had run through one round of P90X. I believe if I had continued with that while running, I would have eliminated a lot of my injuries. But that is nor here or there now. Just hind site talk. I learned through that experience that I CAN do pushups! A lot of them! My muscle tone was probably in peak form for my life at that time.<br />
<br />
After the half marathon was done, I decided I needed to put my love for the bike to better use. My dad, an avid lifelong cyclist, has been telling me for YEARS that that is what I needed to put my efforts in. But of course, do we ever listen to our parents? Uh, yea. Exactly. He was also the one that told me I should run track in high school and I thought he was nuts. I shoulda listened. Sorry dad. :/<br />
<br />
My dad had done many bike races and rides over the years including the MS150 a good 12-15 times. My hubby was nice enough to buy an official road bike and I started training as soon as the half was done. I experienced some brutal training rides in freezing winter and in the hills but no injuries other than IT band flare up here and there. I did the MS150 two years and to this day, love getting out on the bike. I try to do a minimum of 20 miles (much to my hubby's dismay...haha) and will sometimes try to ride with my dad and not get my ass handed to me. (He is tough to keep up with...his "casual" rides are hardcore workout rides for me!)<br />
<br />
Fast forward to having two more babies. Nothing is more motivating than knowing the outcome of things from previous experience and knowing what to do to change results. So last two babies, I worked out AFTER as a remedy to get "back" to my old me. This time, I was going into the pregnancy being the best, fittest me so that getting back is not quite such a difficult journey. <br />
<br />
My pregnancy fitness was on point. It was my first REAL training. I learned how to swim (I think I documented some of that here on this blog!), I started doing yoga regularly and also added spin classes and aerial fabric and conditioning classes too. Baby #3 came and went and my body snapped back like a rubberband. It was fantastic! And then...I got busy being a working mom of 3 and I slipped again. Until I found out I was pregnant with #4. New goal! I got back on the same type routines and again, boom, that kid popped out and was back to my old self in no time flat. <br />
<br />
I ran with them, pulled them on the bike and did some spot workouts at home here and there but again...nothing to keep me committed.<br />
<br />
Last year, I figured my goal oriented nature was the only way to keep me on track. Sign up for things, commit to train, show up and do it. I've documented my whole trial "half ironman training" experience on this blog too. Feel free to peruse at your leisure. ;)<br />
<br />
I worked my butt off for a good chunk of the year. I ran, swam and biked. I hot yoga'd here and there and I lost my ass. Literally. All the cardio makes all the curves disappear on me. I did several sprint tris and then school happened. My schedule blew up and getting the workouts in was getting harder and harder. So, I stopped trying. Rather than miss a few here and there, I chunked the whole program because I didn't want to "half ass" it. Makes sense. No.<br />
<br />
So my hubby got me going again Jan 1, 2016. Motivated me to get my ass in gear...I even had a hashtag for it. #newyeargetmyassingear (look it up, it's true!) I committed to doing SOMETHING every day. Not for a race day. Not for a due date. Not for a milestone birthday. Not for a weight number. Not for a size. Not even for a trip. Although having one as a reward is totally ok. :)<br />
<br />
The new goal was to do something for ME. To set an example for my kids. To be healthy for my family. To motivate myself and others that could be in the same predicament. To prove that everyone has the same number of hours in the day and no matter how tight, you CAN make SOMETHING happen each day to make you feel better. Because every workout makes you feel better.<br />
<br />
So now I am in month 7 of this #newyeargetyourassingear movement. SEVEN. Longer than pregnancy fitness time. Longer than post pregnancy fitness time. Longer than training for a full freaking ironman if you think on that. And I can say proudly that I have done SOMETHING 95% of those 7 months. Check my insta...haha. I keep myself accountable there.<br />
<br />
Here's the thing I did this year that I hadn't done in the past (for very long anyway) - I started lifting weights. Consistently and often and actually increasing the weight too! I've had gym stints in the past but not like this. <br />
<br />
I decided to use all the machines in the office gym and learn all the things that they can do. I'm stronger for it. Not skinny. My ass is semi gone but the part that has stayed is hard. Lol. You'll be able to bounce a quarter off that baby soon! Ha!<br />
<br />
I am slowly becoming less timid about going to the big gym and trying a machine there. It can be really intimidating sometimes...especially if they don't have a little picture by them explaining how they work. Lol! I'm all about instructions, man. <br />
<br />
I am now officially addicted. I look forward to going to the gym and have a hard time leaving because I want to try "one more" exercise. Times 3 rounds of 15 reps. Haha. I still run but my lack of steady training and heat/humidity of the summer has affected my pace which in turn affects my ego. Just keeping it real. I like to go fast. And when I can't, it pisses me off. So I go further instead. Slow and steady, I guess. <br />
<br />
Here's a revelation: 7 months of weight training, some yoga, cycling and running and no injuries. Hmm. Maybe there is something to that whole moderation is king thing. (Remember the half marathon earlier this year? How I was all gun ho and then hurt myself? Well here's the refresher <a href="http://fitforbaby.blogspot.com/2016/01/hello-its-me.html" target="_blank">link</a> and also <a href="http://fitforbaby.blogspot.com/2016/03/woodlands-half-marathon-check.html" target="_blank">here</a>)<br />
<br />
So now what? Staying on the steady train my friends. I am seeing big results in the way my body looks and I love the way I feel and I am not following some crazy training schedule or diet plan to do it (moderation and smart choices). My friend wants me to do a tri with her in a few weeks but I haven't been in the pool in a long while. I think I may have forgotten how to swim! I may give it a go, we'll see. I also have some pilates classes lined up, more bike ride dates with the hubby (yay) and I think I may get back to doing the aerial yoga classes again too. My other friend wants to do a destination race in Utah early next year and the triathlon in Cuba is also very tempting. I just don't know if I want the training schedules. Haha. Now that my muscles are stronger, running longer and harder may be easier and will keep me injury free. I will take that all into consideration soon.<br />
<br />
In the mean time, we are going to be converting a double garage to a home gym later this year that I am really excited about planning and designing! It will be great to have a nice space to go to without leaving the house (or tripping over cars and My Little Ponies - haha)<br />
<br />
So although fitness and I go way back and our relationship has been through ups and downs, it is finally this year that we've gotten to better understand one another and bond. I look forward to building this relationship and sharing it with my family and friends (including you!). <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaCc5OYGDtYfpazEy1IiYDOx7U_hz8TaYltheNtyG95RRS69Px-yUiTlnEatLO2YA_UykApuE2s0Pf41N5vNnH724m2KUE6_A48BcRMy_kY5tQHXEDa8Yb71oczsHq6WoR6BCSJdd6aVcp/s1600/journey.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaCc5OYGDtYfpazEy1IiYDOx7U_hz8TaYltheNtyG95RRS69Px-yUiTlnEatLO2YA_UykApuE2s0Pf41N5vNnH724m2KUE6_A48BcRMy_kY5tQHXEDa8Yb71oczsHq6WoR6BCSJdd6aVcp/s400/journey.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
Come check out my daily updates @fullhouseofroyals on Instagram or on Snapchat : valofthevilla for motivation, inspiration, reviews, funny commentary, music, recipes or plain ol foodie pics. :)<br />
<br />
Hope you're all having a fab summer!<br />
<br />
Val<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02355048808638459444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6028961217954873713.post-33345758604954994942016-04-29T11:02:00.000-07:002016-04-29T11:02:04.596-07:00Mother's Day Gift Guide for the Fit Mom<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 600px;">
<div style="position: relative;">
<br />
<br />
Sure, a nice handbag or designer shoes is really nice. Really, really nice. But, for us busy-trying-to-stay-fit-and-doing-it-all moms, getting fun gear that we can use everyday to keep the motivation going is not only nice, it's helpful too!<br />
<br />
Here's a quick guide of things to help you put a smile on that fit mom in your life. In compiling this list, I realized that I have my own wishlist of things and that this template is just not big enough! Haha. <br />
<br />
Other things to consider: gym memberships, classes at your local Yoga or Spin studio or you can go ALL out and redo that extra garage into an awesome home gym. (Cough, cough...hint, hint.) :D<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/mothers_day_gift_guide_for/set?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=189630707" target="_blank"><img alt="Mother's Day Gift Guide for the Fit Mom" border="0" src="http://img2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set?.out=jpg&.sig=heyi3IEBg56aN4uJJcMA&id=rtdejzEO5hGzXrGAihlwOg&size=c600x551" height="551" title="Mother's Day Gift Guide for the Fit Mom" width="600" /></a></div>
</div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/mothers_day_gift_guide_for/set?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=189630707" target="_blank">Mother's Day Gift Guide for the Fit Mom</a> by <a href="http://valofthevilla.polyvore.com/?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger" target="_blank">valofthevilla</a> featuring a <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/yoga_activewear/shop?query=yoga+activewear" target="_blank">yoga activewear</a></small></div>
<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 600px;">
<br />
<small></small><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=166409167" rel="nofollow">Yoga activewear</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=165662501" rel="nofollow">Moxie Cycling sleeveless jersey</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=156259799" rel="nofollow">NIKE stretch jersey</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=168558967" rel="nofollow">NIKE sports footwear</a>, $115 / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=168896422" rel="nofollow">Nike Victory Gym Club Duffel Bag</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=164945550" rel="nofollow">Casetify slim iphone case</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=163804151" rel="nofollow">Adidas By Stella Mccartney Yoga Mat</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=159083632" rel="nofollow">25 Oz Water Bottle</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=160523023" rel="nofollow">Amazon.com : Hers 30 Satin Kettle Weight Kit : Kettlebell Weights :...</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=144575451" rel="nofollow">Ladies weight lifting fitness gloves long wrist wrap gloves for Gym...</a>, $25 / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=170613797" rel="nofollow">Wake up and smell the WOD Crossfit Fitness by HeatherBorenDesigns</a> / <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=152364752" rel="nofollow">JayBird BlueBuds X Premium Bluetooth Buds</a></small><br />
<br />
<br />
Happy shopping and don't forget a nice family dinner!!<br />
<br />
Valerie</div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02355048808638459444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6028961217954873713.post-92076456738163214702016-04-28T11:27:00.000-07:002016-04-28T11:27:03.265-07:00Avocado Pit Smoothie<div class="MsoNormal">
My friend @stilettotopedal sent me an article on the benefits
of the Avocado Pit/Seed (<a href="http://www.dailynutritionnews.com/avocado-seeds-super-food-for-super-health/" target="_blank">here</a>) . Aside it being considered
a #Superfood packed with the daily required dose of #fiber and #antioxidants (more
than in the entire avocado!), there’s a laundry list of reasons on why we
should consume them rather than pitch them.
Here’s a few:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkl5eSj_QSHkQlUU1-vQKL_EmDKyKiOSClHasIrbmjb-T6U5vppg-flzLwdwVXrLp4wnCs1sw9LgDEE_CqGKFxvHdocs-xybqzLUKGGkUWAtgARcDNSkl1WvnOiG7wvJ8scjSyzrgzDE2Z/s1600/avocado+pit.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkl5eSj_QSHkQlUU1-vQKL_EmDKyKiOSClHasIrbmjb-T6U5vppg-flzLwdwVXrLp4wnCs1sw9LgDEE_CqGKFxvHdocs-xybqzLUKGGkUWAtgARcDNSkl1WvnOiG7wvJ8scjSyzrgzDE2Z/s200/avocado+pit.JPG" width="150" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> - </span><!--[endif]-->Reduce GI tract swelling<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> - </span><!--[endif]-->Prevent/relieve constipation<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> - </span><!--[endif]-->Contains cancer fighting antioxidant, Flavonol<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> - </span><!--[endif]-->Strengthen immunities<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> - </span><!--[endif]-->Rebuilds collagen under the skin (whaaaa? #yesplease)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoListParagraph" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; text-indent: -.25in;">
<!--[if !supportLists]-->-<span style="font-size: 7pt; font-stretch: normal;"> - </span><!--[endif]-->Reduces body aches<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I made a post-yoga smoothie this morning to give it a
try. Here is what I included:</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXVROdzQ-c6HGLA8stWYeA3FS2sG4UR6Kh9oxI80COT9zAZ9kyHiQCkVyPta6HnVD_d1SCiEGKuLQBw_D-92_MAd0PgfpHPv76W-4Z-Ux95I1DgevataEcL596-xRaZHm29C2rU3UelCqv/s1600/avocado+pit+smoothie+ingredients.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXVROdzQ-c6HGLA8stWYeA3FS2sG4UR6Kh9oxI80COT9zAZ9kyHiQCkVyPta6HnVD_d1SCiEGKuLQBw_D-92_MAd0PgfpHPv76W-4Z-Ux95I1DgevataEcL596-xRaZHm29C2rU3UelCqv/s320/avocado+pit+smoothie+ingredients.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 Avocado pit included<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
2 bananas (they were starting to turn, save the bananas!!)<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Frozen Pineapple<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
1 Cube of Fresh Ginger<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
½ sliced Cucumber<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Almond Butter<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Coconut Milk<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPhaqJMcNWAnxcS7Wz9UHeZQ45kBLc2_rdcgKJQ3i9FxSbB7tbzNtc8uUEKztK3zEU2pwL7prdAW1OSSvsdyoeW85A6RE903eZPM1To4RZVQocDRYXPSgEdjsjV-EVwliQqGLtM4BrpIJl/s1600/smoothie.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPhaqJMcNWAnxcS7Wz9UHeZQ45kBLc2_rdcgKJQ3i9FxSbB7tbzNtc8uUEKztK3zEU2pwL7prdAW1OSSvsdyoeW85A6RE903eZPM1To4RZVQocDRYXPSgEdjsjV-EVwliQqGLtM4BrpIJl/s320/smoothie.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
The results as you can see were a of a thick consistency
smoothie that was rich and filling (and delicious). It made enough so that I have my smoothie
ready for tomorrow morning too. <span style="font-family: Wingdings; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-char-type: symbol; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-symbol-font-family: Wingdings;">J</span> </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil9FKSjf-jUVcROtyNNQIQOaNg9iKPdfSZz_zaz1QlQhZkO-t1UyTRgoaFhso52ceJpwiy4OGDsh71iLD1CcbG7XuKDnS9zTwb8eP4NeEtaoqhKnAKCxGnSEneZsqN80nNO3dicfq2XuhC/s1600/vitamix.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEil9FKSjf-jUVcROtyNNQIQOaNg9iKPdfSZz_zaz1QlQhZkO-t1UyTRgoaFhso52ceJpwiy4OGDsh71iLD1CcbG7XuKDnS9zTwb8eP4NeEtaoqhKnAKCxGnSEneZsqN80nNO3dicfq2XuhC/s200/vitamix.JPG" width="150" /></a>*I didn’t taste the seed…I think my #Vitamix
does a good job of breaking it up. If
you don’t have a mixer like that, you can put the seed in a baggie and smash it
before blending it in.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
Let me know if you try it!<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02355048808638459444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6028961217954873713.post-54225902945855848862016-04-05T10:33:00.002-07:002016-04-05T10:33:40.610-07:002nd qtr 2016 fitness goals definedI've been noodling about this since my last <a href="http://fitforbaby.blogspot.com/2016/03/2016-1st-quarter-activity-review.html" target="_blank">post</a>. Before the days and month get away from me, I know I need to be a little more decisive about my goal. The sooner I do that, the sooner I can also define a reward! Ha! <br />
<br />
I decided to take dreaded pics of myself so that I can SEE the areas that I want to focus on and target to change. I've mentioned (on IG @fullhouseofroyals) my cellulite that has creeped onto the outside of my thighs (and my butt too) and I just cannot. CANNOT. DEAL. Ugh. What is this gross thing? Actually, I know what it is. The bigger question is WHYYYY???? What horrible punishment for slacking off!<br />
<br />
In any event, I am aware that there is no potion, lotion, scrub or cream that will buff it away. I know that burning the fat layer and building the muscle underneath is the only way. How's that for getting to the point? I saved you oodles of time googling and watching ridiculous long youtube videos explaining the same in only two sentences. You're welcome.<br />
<br />
The pictures don't lie. And no, you won't be seeing them. I can barely look at them. The true test was putting on that cute bikini that I totally rocked just last Summer. WHAT. IN. THE. HELL??? It's like a completely different bottom half of my body! So, there is my answer. Boom. <br />
<br />
The goal: Eradicate said cellulite and get a tight, smooth butt. I don't think a quarter is enough though. 13 weeks? Eh. I have looked at before and after "body transformation" photos. It can be done (unless those pics have been photoshopped to high heaven). I will never know unless I stop, drop and squat. A lot. <br />
<br />
The plan: Not sure yet. I will research this and find one but in the meantime, I will make sure to find glute/leg workouts on pinterest or youtube. I have an office gym with a pretty good amount of equipment that I will have to teach myself to work with, a membership at a great gym that has every machine imaginable and I will continue to attend my Kickbox class, cycling and running for cardio (fat burning).<br />
<br />
The reward: The beach! Courtesy of the hubby. When we had this conversation and I showed him the pics and blew them up. Oh, yes I did. Yikes. I said "no denying, honey...THAT has GOT TO GO" So, before you wonder why I am insisting to go to the gym again, go for a late run or start randomly squatting before jumping in the shower, you know it's because of THAT. He suggested a trip to the beach as a reward. I am not about to turn that down and I am not about to take THIS out in a bikini anytime soon so....it's set.<br />
<br />
Bonus: For April, I started a 30 day arm challenge I saw on Instagram put on by Fitness Magazine. I'm 4 days in and I already know it's going to be tougher than I thought. I'll also be incorporating abs heavily into the mix and watching my nutritional intake take too. So no worries, I won't be neglecting the rest of my body. :)<br />
<br />
Details to follow! Come back and if you follow along and my booty starts making obvious improvements, I would consider posting my very own before and after. But only then.<br />
<br />
Happy Glutes Day! I mean, Tuesday! ;)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmaIznLayeBlqdPQuSxTxLsX-L9dr8t5HmIoqze46znoI_TGuiDXUW4HLfyTqPdq8pLHe9rpRlIKRcNNduOkd7bySR5uOrIJ_mMvfIebhLHJg6xxDyOYoCg_oulu3sEmwkg-JUO5Holb5F/s1600/summer.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmaIznLayeBlqdPQuSxTxLsX-L9dr8t5HmIoqze46znoI_TGuiDXUW4HLfyTqPdq8pLHe9rpRlIKRcNNduOkd7bySR5uOrIJ_mMvfIebhLHJg6xxDyOYoCg_oulu3sEmwkg-JUO5Holb5F/s320/summer.jpg" width="212" /></a></div>
<br />
ValerieAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02355048808638459444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6028961217954873713.post-65898346769427697802016-04-01T09:13:00.000-07:002016-04-01T09:13:49.229-07:002016 1st Quarter Activity Review<div>
In the beginning, it was about finding motivation to do anything after a 3-4 month hiatus. Then, it turned into running myself into a race. Then, it turned into recovering from an injury to still run the race. Then, it turned into staying active every. single. day. So, I did all those things. I rewarded myself with a fitness gadget after I completed a good quarter year of staying on the move. Better than cake, right?! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So now what? Well, I have to use the gadget I got so staying on track is obvious. I've thought about returning to aerial yoga and triathlon. Getting in the pool after being out of it since...August? is a bit daunting though because swimming has never been a forte. I'm really loving kickboxing, strike, kenpo type classes. My son was watching me the other night and told me a robber wouldn't stand a chance against me. Ha! So sweet! But I need more. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I have an issue with a spot of cellulite that has popped up on my outer thigh during the hiatus period. Seriously, it wasn't there before! Ugh! And...the mid section needs some serious toning and tightening, for sure. I'll work on those things and overall toning while I think of something more concrete. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I started late in tracking all this but once I got it going, I updated almost daily. If you've got nothing to do, take a look...it's quite the potpourri. :)</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<u>January</u><br />
<br />
January 1 - 3.05 mile run loop at Memorial with Michael<br />
January 2 - 3.15 mile track run with Michael, squats and lunges across track (twisted ankle)<br />
January 3 - Billy Blanks abs boot camp plus 1 min plank and 1.1 mile jog<br />
January 4 - Glutes/Legs + 2.13 mi run with JC<br />
January 5 - P90X Back & Biceps + 2.01 mi run with Michael<br />
January 6 - P90X3 Yoga, 1 mile walk<br />
January 7 - Rest Day<br />
January 8 - 3.1 mi run<br />
January 9 - weed pulling & bush trimming<br />
January 10 - no workout<br />
January 11 - 3.11 mi run<br />
January 12 - no workout<br />
January 13 - 3.18 mi run + 7 min abs + plank<br />
January 14 - 4.06 mi run + Shoulders and Arms, plank<br />
January 15 - Run 3.11<br />
January 16 - P90X3 Warrior<br />
January 17 - 8.01 mile run! (Marathon Day)<br />
January 18 - P90X Chest & Back + 3.01 mi run (signed up for Woodlands Half)<br />
January 19 - P90X3 Dynamix + 2 mi run<br />
January 20 - 4.03 mi run + 20min of P90X Shoulders/Arms + Abripper<br />
January 21 - P90X Yoga with Michael<br />
January 22 - 5.26 mi run + plank<br />
January 23 - Bike ride with Joncarlo 10.16 miles<br />
January 24 - Long run with Doan (6 + walk 1.6) Ankle flaired...limped back. :(<br />
January 25 - P90X3 Pilates - Injured<br />
January 26 - no recollection :/<br />
January 27 - P90X partial<br />
January 28 - 1 hour trainer<br />
January 29 - 45 min trainer<br />
January 30 - 35 min trainer<br />
January 31 - 30 min trainer<br />
<br />
<u>February</u><br />
<br />
Feb 1 - Nike Training Club<br />
Feb 2 - Trainer<br />
Feb 3 - 50 min trainer, 2 min plank + Tone it video + freestyle weights<br />
Feb 4 - Dinner out<br />
Feb 5 - 30 min trainer<br />
Feb 6 - out of town<br />
Feb 7 - 40 min trainer (back in town from soccer tourney)<br />
Feb 8 M traveling<br />
Feb 9 GNO<br />
Feb 10 M traveling<br />
Feb 11 30 min trainer, Alpha Abs NTC<br />
Feb 12 M traveling<br />
Feb 13 Golf tourney/Bday party<br />
Feb 14 LOV Bday party<br />
Feb 15 47 min trainer, 2 min plank, arm weights<br />
Feb 16 First run post injury! + plank 4.10 (shoe lights)<br />
Feb 17 - 4.06 run, 2.1 plank<br />
Feb 18 - outpatient Surgery<br />
Feb 19 - 4.01 run + handstand<br />
Feb 20 - ?<br />
Feb 21 - Long run with Doan - 9.01<br />
Feb 22 - 54 min bike trainer, 2:30 plank<br />
Feb 23 - 6.20 miles<br />
Feb 24 - Birthday break<br />
Feb 25 - 6.05<br />
Feb 26 - Rest?<br />
Feb 27 - Busy Golf Day (terrible nutrition and hydration)<br />
Feb 28 - Long run with Doan 11 miles! (Foam roll, stretch)<br />
Feb 29 -?<br />
<br />
<u>March</u><br />
<br />
1 50 min indoor trainer, 2 min plank 180+ crunches<br />
2 4.45 miles (HORRIBLE)<br />
3 stretch, foam roll<br />
4 stretch<br />
5 Woodlands Half Marathon! 2:14:45<br />
6 rest day<br />
7 Workout at office gym arms, legs<br />
8 3 miles on TM at work with Squats/Lunges<br />
9 52 min on bike trainer, some abs from abripper and practice headstand for #headstandmadness2016<br />
10 5 mile run + headstand Day 1 headstandmadness2016<br />
11 11.5 m bike + headstand day 2<br />
12 Strike at lifetime + headstand<br />
13 9 mile run + SallyUp Plank 3:30😳<br />
14 SB walk course on tournament day<br />
15 SB plants, yard, sweep, etc<br />
16 SB ditto<br />
17 SB Lifetime Yoga + 2.3 mile run<br />
18 SB P90X3 Yoga<br />
19 TCX at lifetime<br />
20 walk golf course<br />
21 indoor cycle 1 hr + rows, push-ups, short yoga sequence<br />
22 5.1 run<br />
23 17 min toneitup + SallyUp<br />
24 no workout ?<br />
25 no workout, work on holiday boo<br />
26 85 min strike<br />
27 P90X3 MMX + 3 Volleyball games<br />
28 P90X3 Warrior + Brazilian Butt workout + a few tricep exercises<br />
29 Triceps at office AutumnCalabrese YouTube <br />
30 migraine...few arm sets :/<br />
31 5 miles + Sally up :)<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
My reward: Fitbit Blaze<br />
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifZV5QH1geSXQR0x0pJL0BOow9Xc-VxHBN2KjUzQ0EW1KmhARTXe5AR1mwJDjP0ArJD03DmAm-DtR4OLEDUIyA6e98Cv9Yj5uhppT69_yaYcGN7fAxi0Y78NhAALnn4VCerWgVpOn53NAd/s640/blogger-image--749407459.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifZV5QH1geSXQR0x0pJL0BOow9Xc-VxHBN2KjUzQ0EW1KmhARTXe5AR1mwJDjP0ArJD03DmAm-DtR4OLEDUIyA6e98Cv9Yj5uhppT69_yaYcGN7fAxi0Y78NhAALnn4VCerWgVpOn53NAd/s640/blogger-image--749407459.jpg" /></a></div>
<br />
Adios quarter 1 & hello quarter 2. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Happy Aprils Fools!!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
~V<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02355048808638459444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6028961217954873713.post-7706982341122800182016-03-09T09:26:00.000-08:002016-03-09T09:34:04.873-08:00Woodlands Half Marathon - Check!This is a long one...more for me than you so...be forewarned. :)<br />
<br />
The rollercoaster of feelings within the week of a race is quite astonishing. Mid last week I went for a run. It was a gorgeous day. The weather couldn't have been better and I felt like this last run before the race would secure whatever insecurities I had about accomplishing the task ahead of me.<br />
<br />
I was so wrong. My legs felt like they were attached to someone else's body. My knees hurt, my IT band was acting up, both shins felt like they were on fire, my feet ached and flopped onto the pavement and reverberated up to my brain. It was awful. I stopped several times to shake things out. I upped the volume on my music in hopes that it would drain out the screaming in my legs.<br />
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPxG2sGJXd91LQC83RTHWRSuRMNE5QsEEyWaWsZKo-zbn5mwtj2Aes4yt3Y4jDl9PGoEKTiPQCiueZnjulDsIgkmSPz9aZ_dVOpH-6Qa7O7ATFGNRMoqykpv7ULrNGWesen55QxEHJV8UP/s640/blogger-image-39577721.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="319" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPxG2sGJXd91LQC83RTHWRSuRMNE5QsEEyWaWsZKo-zbn5mwtj2Aes4yt3Y4jDl9PGoEKTiPQCiueZnjulDsIgkmSPz9aZ_dVOpH-6Qa7O7ATFGNRMoqykpv7ULrNGWesen55QxEHJV8UP/s320/blogger-image-39577721.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Me, unamused by my most recent run</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
To say that I was concerned about a half marathon only a few days away would be an understatement. Doubts, yea, I had them. I reminded myself that only a few weeks ago I was sidelined by an ankle injury that kept me from taking normal steps. I decided to not think about it. I tabled it.<br />
<br />
My friend/coach picked my packet up for me and so that eliminated another opportunity to think about it. On Friday, I picked up some GU to follow the nutrition instructions given to me for race day. I started hoping. Hoping that my legs would just show up Saturday morning. Hoping that I could at least run half of it before things started to fall apart. Knowing that my heart and mind would be in it and hoping that my legs would come along for the ride.<br />
<br />
I was up at 4 am. I didn't sleep much. I had coffee, read the packet instructions and gathered all my gear. I was ready to go at 4:50. I ate peanut butter on raisin toast in the car. I had almost an hour drive to talk about everything except MY race. My friend, my coach, the elite crazy marathon runner was driving and was telling me she woke up with a head cold. I hurt for her. Ugh...the idea of running with a headache sounded awful. I was grateful to not have one of those to deal with. <br />
<br />
We arrived and still, I didn't put much thought into my race. I just wanted to finish. Follow instructions...GU at mile 3 or 4 and again at 9. Drink water every 3 miles. Got it. I was able to watch the super racers and their pre-race routines. Two more friends we met there were running the half as well. They are also crazy fast, hard core. They applied Glide, Chapstick, drank water and discussed whether or not to wear a layer at the start. My marathon friend buys "throw away" jackets for times like these. That's her routine. Hmm. I don't have throw away gear. It was chilly...in the 50s and I was wearing shorts and a tank. Way too cold for me to not wear another layer so I figured I'd tie it around my waist when I got hot. Not them. No throwaway? Then, no layer. That's right, they peeled it off and when out there in a sports bra. You see, tying it around your waist makes you slower. I am SO not in the phase where aerodynamics play a role in my performance. Haha.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAEAYpSPHHo1gkRIemFmcpxqz-uy0snlcM0qF9JBfrEGi5i4FHFIaZROqpnYWwbcwRSDclkTrI8A39AXOHnAAOZAp77f7VGyJbZQgCMNX94sXb7_dcybXxiAQLpN4oDLxrJORTAXjZkSMq/s640/blogger-image-683588275.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjAEAYpSPHHo1gkRIemFmcpxqz-uy0snlcM0qF9JBfrEGi5i4FHFIaZROqpnYWwbcwRSDclkTrI8A39AXOHnAAOZAp77f7VGyJbZQgCMNX94sXb7_dcybXxiAQLpN4oDLxrJORTAXjZkSMq/s320/blogger-image-683588275.jpg" width="213" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">With some fast chickies</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
At 6:30, we all split up into our respective corrals. Hers, the first for a full marathon. My other friends, the first for the half. Mine, the last. It's pretty awesome to be in their company. They look not only relaxed but like they are about to have fun (except for the headache part).<br />
<br />
I walked back there in the dark, alone through the crowd of nervous runners. I settled myself next to a couple that had been running half marathons together for 20 years. They had to be well into their 60s -70s?. I was also a few feet behind the 2:15 pacer guy and his blue balloon. To my right, a guy wearing brown pantyhose, a deer costume and a full rack on his head (antlers, of course). I watched all the selfies taking place all around me and the photobombs that went with them. I looked down at my phone. It was 6:40. Another 20 minutes or so of people watching and NOT thinking about what I was about to do. </div>
<div>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgreKvtkKM1jbCARx0UQbQL_IG8Fr561vvpnippzN3eSG1sJJfZT-rZJEi-VGK5gi9hO5i70OHeDpje7Q9F1Kr4l13M5X6sKK8wOUII6JAciDOq50u1HDzgX-rW-yfjXfCSO1orMEfdBf2p/s640/blogger-image-743436246.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgreKvtkKM1jbCARx0UQbQL_IG8Fr561vvpnippzN3eSG1sJJfZT-rZJEi-VGK5gi9hO5i70OHeDpje7Q9F1Kr4l13M5X6sKK8wOUII6JAciDOq50u1HDzgX-rW-yfjXfCSO1orMEfdBf2p/s320/blogger-image-743436246.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I see you blurry photobomber...:)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br />
I then decided to turn on my ear buds, strategize my music selection and visualize. Before I knew it, I was walking, jogging and running. I was listening to the Hamilton Soundtrack. Yes, I know that sounds odd and maybe even nerdy. But you know what? I LOVE IT. It's a story so you get to follow along and the beat...well, the beat is where it's at. A few songs I repeated because I found myself BOUNCING on the route. I am not even kidding. I will make a playlist of what I listened to and mark the songs that did it for me later.<br />
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPY3LQSQFynd6W6_V62SseJNn09EOH5k8Ne1TZ2FQlDxzUrSyGdLUXItZR17Um7zYpozh0VBKQzd12hLVf1Biq3i9Z4ZXKwd4v3ZoJVMdbcaMppRQT3gv7cC4sSG0nEStFPIHpcKvOkzWw/s640/blogger-image-2052113305.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="291" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPY3LQSQFynd6W6_V62SseJNn09EOH5k8Ne1TZ2FQlDxzUrSyGdLUXItZR17Um7zYpozh0VBKQzd12hLVf1Biq3i9Z4ZXKwd4v3ZoJVMdbcaMppRQT3gv7cC4sSG0nEStFPIHpcKvOkzWw/s320/blogger-image-2052113305.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm not throwing away my shot!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
A 5k later, I slowly worked on my first GU. Watermelon Salt?! OMG. So good! I was wishing I had two of those! I got water at the 4 mile stop and walked through. In my sights still the blue balloon ahead and the deer, front right. A few miles later, we caught up to a SuperMan. Deer and SuperMan began talking and discussing costume choices (I guess...I was still jamming out, probably Lafayette in Guns and Ships). <br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW5hXMO_jGY1GMDFtqBvByGda5X3Pn51ACrSn1P1yM18nesq6XnAyI8JsOncjQnE-vkFWUajcHqi1PKsUtDaWN9pjyaxNKN2UaF3lyEd9yj-kvVSSNl_IOyZ1SYS_rLDkHcFboMzfY6LQg/s640/blogger-image-1267880941.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjW5hXMO_jGY1GMDFtqBvByGda5X3Pn51ACrSn1P1yM18nesq6XnAyI8JsOncjQnE-vkFWUajcHqi1PKsUtDaWN9pjyaxNKN2UaF3lyEd9yj-kvVSSNl_IOyZ1SYS_rLDkHcFboMzfY6LQg/s200/blogger-image-1267880941.jpg" width="150" /></a></div>
I was clearly having a great run. It was still cool out and the fog had yet to lift. The miles were just passing me by and at 8.5, I worked on my 2nd GU Mandarin Orange Vanilla Octane for an extra boost. Water didn't come around til almost mile 10. I felt great but my mind started playing with me. It was reminding me how badly I was feeling at about this time at my last half. SIX YEARS AGO. Right. A lot of life has happened since then. I didn't let that bother me. The fact was, I felt pretty darn good. I was getting a little tired but the legs were a-ok (THANK GOODNESS).<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both;">
</div>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Kop7AbwEW9H5FuvrRFDHw5oba6Hz1spRhJK4sxexaUMniOPRZq_Ae1h5afbPn8O8LM6-yx0j3QuZhf38gn3Ka_MZ6wd7TGh4gUXirqD7M2ychtMtVllXCZfo8bq7KEhj1TxGWvhXWObk/s640/blogger-image-167030813.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0Kop7AbwEW9H5FuvrRFDHw5oba6Hz1spRhJK4sxexaUMniOPRZq_Ae1h5afbPn8O8LM6-yx0j3QuZhf38gn3Ka_MZ6wd7TGh4gUXirqD7M2ychtMtVllXCZfo8bq7KEhj1TxGWvhXWObk/s200/blogger-image-167030813.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="150" /></a>I realized during a run in the neighborhood recently that music could make or break a run for me. I discovered that listening to Salsa (Tropical Latin) specifically by the likes of Marc Anthony, Oscar D'Leon, El Gran Combo, Willie Colon (old school, baby) could get me really moving. So much that at times I really just wanted to pull over and dance. My childhood memories of the music flowing at my grandma's house all the time and her stopping and dancing while cooking or walking through a room like it was yesterday. Because of this, I had a few gems saved in my library por si las moscas (Cuban for "Just in Case").<br />
<br />
When Hamilton started to get gloomy, I let Marc, Enrique, Oscar and even Pochi y Su Cocoband bring me home. And did they! I never lost sight of the blue balloon until then. I don't know where that guy went (or the deer) but I knew the end was near and I was going to bounce my ass across that finish line! I was so happy to have come that far with no pain and no mental anguish. The sun was now shining and it was getting warm but it was still pretty fantastic. And I was pretty sure I was going to be coming in before 2:30+ (the time on my last half) so it was going to be a good day. :)<br />
<br />
La Fiesta de Pilito came on at mile 12 talking arroz, gandules, lechon y ron (rice, beans, pork and rum for a Puerto Rican holiday feast) but the final song across the finish line was "Salsa Con Coco"...I laughed because I hadn't heard that since I was in high school! My mom got a kick out of that when I spoke to her afterwards.<br />
<br />
My final time: 2:14:45. What?! I was shooting for 2:20ish and I figured the blue balloon was way ahead...turns out, it was behind me! W H A T ? ?<br />
<br />
Yes, so here we are the Monday after and I am ELATED that I 1) finished 2) didn't hurt 3) Got a PR 4) want to do another to see if I can do it again. Even better news? My friends ALL placed! Both half marathoners placed 3rd in each of their age groups and my rock star super amazing friend and coach came in FIRST of her age group, head cold and all!! She is so bad ass. My hero. AND she PR'd!! She came in at 3:20 and some change. AH-Mazing. (Her 43rd marathon)<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg7h715GL_0VKbnh84BkTnxXEFRFqlcE2EIQFRXCfORvulH90h5N3AUjjt29upPsBT5b_p9JF-jv9MYGEGbcuyE3K6vMpw2eStei4nGxQScVrcsFk95HsfPAAce9z0BIHpiQISXMfIkDq8/s640/blogger-image--1064769823.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhg7h715GL_0VKbnh84BkTnxXEFRFqlcE2EIQFRXCfORvulH90h5N3AUjjt29upPsBT5b_p9JF-jv9MYGEGbcuyE3K6vMpw2eStei4nGxQScVrcsFk95HsfPAAce9z0BIHpiQISXMfIkDq8/s320/blogger-image--1064769823.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">All smiles! Finisher!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Inspiration is contagious y'all. I am looking for my next half. I think I can shave at least the :45 off if my legs cooperate. Take that ankle injury! Boom!<br />
<br />
Feeling accomplished. :)<br />
<br />
~V <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02355048808638459444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6028961217954873713.post-815404032809958022016-03-01T10:40:00.000-08:002016-03-01T10:40:01.748-08:00Two weeks, 44 milesThat's what's happened since my last update. Yikes. I guess I am healing pretty well, huh? <br />
<br />
This is how it all went down.<br />
<br />
The chance meeting with my friend basically telling me I <u>was</u> going to run (post <a href="http://fitforbaby.blogspot.com/2016/02/im-back-i-guess.html" target="_blank">here</a>) was what I needed to get me off my break and get out there to see how the foot would feel. I was a bit terrified of going for 6 as she <strike>suggested</strike> demanded but luckily, my kid's birthday party kept me so preoccupied that I completely forgot to connect with her and set it up. (Dodged bullet, haha) Even luckier for me was that she forgot too. Phew! <br />
<br />
A couple of days later, I went for that <a href="http://fitforbaby.blogspot.com/2016/02/light-me-up.html" target="_blank">first run</a>. My ankle was a bit twitchy, I admit and I was very nervous that I would be over doing it too soon. After about a mile and half, all was well and I finished 4. I did that two more times during the week and each time, it felt pretty much the same.<br />
<br />
I reached out to my coach, gave her an update and we scheduled a long run. "Let's shoot for 9" she said. NINE. UGH. Really? NINE? I haven't run that many miles in....6 months? And...I only did it once! Yikes. <br />
<br />
I put my big girl pants on, didn't whine and especially didn't let her see the fear in me. We did a loop around the park and then ventured off to a secret iced down water fountain near the Polo fields. It was humid and tough but I realized that talking while running sure makes for faster miles albeit out of breath ones. By the time we made it back to the park, I was at 8! I was in shock. I even told her to check her watch because I just couldn't believe my Nike app. We hit the 9 and I was elated that I could do it! Yay! My ankle didn't fail me!<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9_jKhyphenhyphend5Kxj-R3Iiq_Rw8efkj2iLAUezrJ2vtqSCThH3u3cnSvo2F7IVspxY7ZeuFyzI56ZM0gvCNBpVZxIpRZgkfg0dPGs_bE5z_wA-XP_s7j1zyUUr0x2yx_VnaBs4lggLfj4I8wAUU/s1600/9.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj9_jKhyphenhyphend5Kxj-R3Iiq_Rw8efkj2iLAUezrJ2vtqSCThH3u3cnSvo2F7IVspxY7ZeuFyzI56ZM0gvCNBpVZxIpRZgkfg0dPGs_bE5z_wA-XP_s7j1zyUUr0x2yx_VnaBs4lggLfj4I8wAUU/s320/9.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The beautiful area and amazing tucked away iced water fountain!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Obviously, I am STILL running this Half Marathon. I had written it off (sorta) when I got injured but my friend saw that I could do 9 so guess what? I am DOING it. Come hell or high water, this mama is going to show up. I just needed (from this particular day) to make it through a few more runs, one long run and the race. Easy peasy, right?<br />
<br />
Sure. So last week I decided to up the miles during the week but just run twice. I ran a little over 6 on Tuesday and on my birthday went to pick up my new shoes (Wednesday). I broke those babies in on Thursday with another 6.25 and then I waited for the text to set up the long run. Duhn, duhn duhhhhhhnnnnnn! And like clockwork, on Friday, "10-12, pick you up Sun at 7" came through. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ21wmG7n2xK8YMLSgk33rtX9C-6G4VfbtVxpIQmsIgkiJqF2edWpNMo1pvc1U_6ZbptsFo2FPCw5RoMQVKha_z9BL1wzoZQHAIToB9bfsM0CYNXcTg1PFBZPJ8BULr6O5A-m6xOvJ8IDa/s1600/six+shoes.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ21wmG7n2xK8YMLSgk33rtX9C-6G4VfbtVxpIQmsIgkiJqF2edWpNMo1pvc1U_6ZbptsFo2FPCw5RoMQVKha_z9BL1wzoZQHAIToB9bfsM0CYNXcTg1PFBZPJ8BULr6O5A-m6xOvJ8IDa/s320/six+shoes.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My new kicks: Asics Kinsei 5 (last year's model=discount!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
I had my protein powder, new shoes and the confidence that I had just done 9 without any major issues. What I didn't take into account was that my schedule on Saturday was packed tight and that I would have a brain fart about my nutrition and my access to food. Yikes. A protein rich green smoothie is great but it's not good enough for the ENTIRE day. Golf lesson, class and a tournament across town did not give me much of a chance to stop to eat and like a DUMMY I forgot to pack snacks. <br />
<br />
All of that to say that Sunday's run was not so great. My lack of nutrition and water the day before was affecting me BIG TIME. It was brutal and I got in trouble for it. Lesson learned. :)<br />
In any event, I ran. She said 10 but in my mind, I had said 11 so I pushed a little to get to the next loop. And when I accidentally paused my app at 10.17 and she said we were at 10.47 I could've punched myself because I knew that we weren't going to stop when she hit 11, rather when I did. So...effectively, I ran 11+ because I wanted that round number on my device. (yep, that's me).<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpLUdeNL1nUyK_nSMTlIvmvCOgPF6lmt_sx08w5yXHQacWHxhzuNRgeX11dawKX0v31xfO-ivOxn2qTi7ot7XpPnSj4I3P09GglY77yEdjTMajiMafmNSkHvXu6AfJid4rThz23YltBZhM/s1600/11.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpLUdeNL1nUyK_nSMTlIvmvCOgPF6lmt_sx08w5yXHQacWHxhzuNRgeX11dawKX0v31xfO-ivOxn2qTi7ot7XpPnSj4I3P09GglY77yEdjTMajiMafmNSkHvXu6AfJid4rThz23YltBZhM/s320/11.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Proof that I finished with both legs still attached. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
My ankle felt great. However, the knee on the OTHER leg started acting up. UGH! By the end of the run, my left quad was super tight (I know it was protecting the knee). I knew this meant I'd have to roll it out and take a break or my half marathon was going to be a big mess. <br />
<br />
I am supposed to run 2-3 times this week. She said 5,4,3 or 4,4 or even 4,3. I foam rolled Sunday night and I ran out of time last night so I jumped on my bike for almost an hour. Does that count? I can't run tonight or tomorrow night so I am creatively thinking how I will get it done. <br />
<br />
We'll see...I am also supposed to get a massage in no later than tomorrow. As fantastic as that sounds, I don't think that's going to happen. <br />
<br />
Stay tuned. I am actually amazed that I've done so much in so little time. I've got my fingers crossed that my ankle and knee both just chill out for at least a week. My son got a a Hover Board thing and I told him I was holding back from even attempting to get on until after the race. Because...me. (Avoiding a clutz-o move at all costs.)<br />
<br />
I'll post as soon as I can but in the mean time, get more frequent updates on my public instagram account at: @FullHouseofRoyals<br />
<br />
Happy Super Tuesday y'all!<br />
<br />
~V<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02355048808638459444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6028961217954873713.post-54720207903346717602016-02-16T20:40:00.001-08:002016-02-16T20:40:33.765-08:00Light Me UpMy son is not a fan of me running at night. He always makes certain I'm wearing light colored clothing and I've got a full charge on my phone. Since it seems this is the most available time for me to get my runs in, I thought I'd find some gadgets to make my runs safer by being more visible. <div><br></div><div>Behold my shoe lights! </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRaMYEdH39lAewCipdOie9UGqanJ_zTrtebXrgVB3UM5k7O6zslhET2ZHNX6IT8te9Mv3C6j8-jbIsK9wQRDFjSZU8cbzSlV8yymGS-jH6shHIXMcvVGSmBRaqi4mekPNfL7s1xefUpNqB/s640/blogger-image--1709597081.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhRaMYEdH39lAewCipdOie9UGqanJ_zTrtebXrgVB3UM5k7O6zslhET2ZHNX6IT8te9Mv3C6j8-jbIsK9wQRDFjSZU8cbzSlV8yymGS-jH6shHIXMcvVGSmBRaqi4mekPNfL7s1xefUpNqB/s640/blogger-image--1709597081.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">My son gave me an approving nod. I can't say I felt safer per se, since the majority of my runs are on sidewalks, but I did find it to garner more attention from dog walkers and every passing car rather than going under the radar as is norm. </span></div></div><div><br></div><div>Good thing I didn't use the blinking feature! Can you say...obnoxious? </div><div><br></div><div>Happy workout edition of #TuesdayShoesday ! </div><div><br></div><div>Valerie </div><div><br></div><div>P.S. I ran! First run since ankle injury! </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02355048808638459444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6028961217954873713.post-92105503745452856422016-02-11T14:40:00.002-08:002016-02-11T14:40:34.823-08:00I'm back, I guess.Remember when I rolled my ankle? And how I blew it off and continued running until I couldn't walk? Well, here's a reminder if you missed it --> <a href="http://fitforbaby.blogspot.com/2016/01/hello-its-me.html" target="_blank">here</a><br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I've been a really good girl and stayed off of it. Mainly, because I literally couldn't walk on it. Haha. This week, I have finally felt very close to normal. Heels have been my remedy, I think. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBL-DtqBRt5u8Ea-SYzL39w6oDI2cq0RJOAvMiO5r_We6k9AaYgleqcdN91aYPcOGm-LLeFyhAFIuSoCGpgiAjXSf_135tP_2Q_t2f_3N6Z69lbCxD6CGvr5d9_lCduRUFRy7u3lx_wLa4/s1600/highheels.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBL-DtqBRt5u8Ea-SYzL39w6oDI2cq0RJOAvMiO5r_We6k9AaYgleqcdN91aYPcOGm-LLeFyhAFIuSoCGpgiAjXSf_135tP_2Q_t2f_3N6Z69lbCxD6CGvr5d9_lCduRUFRy7u3lx_wLa4/s400/highheels.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Truth!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
No, really. I wore flats and realized that in heels, I walked normally. I must have been taking the pressure off of whatever the heck I injured in my foot/ankle and I had my natural (and much missed) high heel stride. No limping! I figured I would be jogging sometime this week to test out the mechanics but haven't had time yet since I'm flying solo this week.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The other night I ran into my friend aka elite marathon trainer at a restaurant party/event/bday thingy. She looked down, asked me about my ankle and before I could finish my sentence about it being better, she said "good, see you Sunday bright and early...we'll start with 6" If I could insert a big eye emoji here, I would. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I'll work on abs and my legs on the bike until then. Wish me luck! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Update Monday! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Valerie</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02355048808638459444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6028961217954873713.post-23813196760942029352016-02-10T14:39:00.001-08:002016-02-10T14:41:59.058-08:00Listening Now - G-Eazy<div style="position: relative;">
<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 500px;">
New Music Wednesday...I love the "Me, Myself & I" track so I thought I'd check out the whole album. So far, so good!! :)<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/when_its_dark_out_eazy/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=162848754" target="_blank"><img alt="When It's Dark Out - G-Eazy" border="0" src="http://embed.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/x/tid/162848754.jpg" height="500" title="When It's Dark Out - G-Eazy" width="500" /></a></div>
</div>
<br />
<small></small><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div>
<small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/when_its_dark_out_eazy/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=162848754" target="_blank">When It's Dark Out - G-Eazy</a> (clipped to <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/" target="_blank">polyvore.com</a>)</small></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02355048808638459444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6028961217954873713.post-5414882917409583652016-02-08T08:35:00.000-08:002016-02-08T09:02:02.758-08:00Monday Motivation. #Chachacha<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEistX5OM7VOJMxakRNQYygJ9VImGMMb1b-BkCXA_BoSyAPsYTH42EIZQFq2K5l7tRov6ttQahao5IWMRuTMvO0KmaxSJHr1tfYTFIxx3dIaCI4XN02SecEPrWxNLhSIxuCqLpmRes8HeOow/s1600/optimist+chacha.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEistX5OM7VOJMxakRNQYygJ9VImGMMb1b-BkCXA_BoSyAPsYTH42EIZQFq2K5l7tRov6ttQahao5IWMRuTMvO0KmaxSJHr1tfYTFIxx3dIaCI4XN02SecEPrWxNLhSIxuCqLpmRes8HeOow/s640/optimist+chacha.jpg" width="512" /></a></div>
Who else did a little dance when they read this?<br />
<br />
Don't let those Super Bowl party foods be your disaster...get back at it!<br />
<br />
Go get that Monday and DO NOT skip the workout! :)<br />
<br />
Valerie<br />
<br />
Funny unrelated anecdote: February is my birthday month and I usually celebrate in some form or another ALL month (because I can! haha) but now that I share the month with my youngest daughter, I've had to relinquish the first couple of weeks to her. (phfft, kids!) Anyway, I mentioned to my hubby this weekend about my birthday plans and she (quickly and loudly) interjects "you mean MYYYYY birthday????" Seriously, kid? Her birthday was LAST week! How quickly they catch on to the birthday month celebration concept. Conversation was tabled, obviously. She wins. :)<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02355048808638459444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6028961217954873713.post-6981942597509879642016-02-03T14:31:00.000-08:002016-02-03T14:31:04.948-08:00Listening Now - Sia<div style="position: relative;">
<div style="margin: 0 auto; width: 500px;">
<br />
<a href="http://www.polyvore.com/this_is_acting_sia/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=162115026" target="_blank"><img alt="This is Acting - Sia" border="0" src="http://embed.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/x/tid/162115026.jpg" height="500" title="This is Acting - Sia" width="500" /></a></div>
</div>
<br />
<small></small><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div>
<small><a href="http://www.polyvore.com/this_is_acting_sia/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=162115026" target="_blank">This is Acting - Sia</a> (clipped to <a href="http://www.polyvore.com/" target="_blank">polyvore.com</a>)</small></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02355048808638459444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6028961217954873713.post-44388921722432970032016-02-03T10:29:00.000-08:002016-02-03T10:29:22.015-08:00Holding out, staying positiveWhat else can you do? On my last update <a href="http://fitforbaby.blogspot.com/2016/01/hello-its-me.html" target="_blank">here</a>, I mentioned my ridiculous ankle/foot injury and how it's sidelined my running and the goals that are attached to that (i.e Woodlands Half Marathon that I had JUST registered for! $$ :/ ). I also mentioned how I was going to keep on moving and hope that it will heal enough for me to at the very least, complete it.<br />
<br />
I haven't waivered on that. I have been upbeat and positive and made a heck of a lot of lemonade this last couple of weeks. I have modified P90X video workouts and I have become reacquainted with my road bike, Blu, after many months of separation. So much so, that I will probably be ready for the <a href="http://main.nationalmssociety.org/site/TR?fr_id=27003&pg=informational&sid=13240" target="_blank">MS 150</a> in April if I keep it up! I have found that much like my injury a little over a year ago (fibular stress fracture, same leg), the best and really only workout that can keep me in check cardiovascularly and still build leg muscle is by riding my bike. No pain to the leg then, or the ankle and foot now. The trickiest part is clipping out which concerns me (a little) about riding outdoors versus off the safety of my indoor trainer. <br />
<br />
I will continue doing that until I can walk normally without flinching. It seems there is still pain to apply weight on the foot which is bitterly frustrating but I know I have to patient. Sigh.<br />
<br />
I said I would see a doctor. Ummm...yea, I don't wanna. :P BUT, I did take a pause from typing this to visit the doctor's website. I found <a href="http://www.orthopedicsports.com/foot-ankle/" target="_blank">this</a> and it confirms that I can't do much about it but rest it. Yes, it's self-diagnosis. No, I don't recommend it. <br />
<br />
So carry on I say...find something to make today better than yesterday. Be grateful for every second.<br />
<br />
Hasta la proxima,<br />
<br />
V.<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02355048808638459444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6028961217954873713.post-35007917449564276822016-02-02T15:41:00.001-08:002016-02-02T15:41:35.186-08:00Valentine's Day Gift Guide for the Teen Girl<div style="width:600px;margin:0 auto"><div style="position:relative;"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/valentines_day_gift_guide_for/set?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_app&.svc=blogger&id=189630707"><img width="600" alt="Valentine's Day Gift Guide for the Teen Girl" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/Nm7DjqkknRiOFnQ5hYljVg/cid/189630707/id/-lZZIgXK5RG3ka8qm_7EJQ/size/c600x590.jpg" title="Valentine's Day Gift Guide for the Teen Girl" height="590" border="0" /></a></div></div><br/><div style="text-align:center"><small><a target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/valentines_day_gift_guide_for/set?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_app&.svc=blogger&id=189630707">Valentine's Day Gift Guide for the Teen Girl</a> by <a target="_blank" href="http://valofthevilla.polyvore.com/?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_app&.svc=blogger">valofthevilla</a> featuring <a target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/colored_candles/shop?query=colored+candles">colored candles</a></small></div><div style="width:600px;margin:0 auto"><small><div style="padding-top:16px"><p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_app&.svc=blogger&id=159676300"><img width="50" align="left" hspace="4" src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/159676300.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" height="50" /></a><div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_app&.svc=blogger&id=159676300">Cotton shirt</a><br/>etsy.com<br/><br style="display:none"/></div></p><p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_app&.svc=blogger&id=155035244"><img width="50" align="left" hspace="4" src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/155035244.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" height="50" /></a><div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_app&.svc=blogger&id=155035244">Heart vest</a><br/>etsy.com<br/><br style="display:none"/></div></p><p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_app&.svc=blogger&id=161064795"><img width="50" align="left" hspace="4" src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/161064795.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" height="50" /></a><div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_app&.svc=blogger&id=161064795">Kendra Scott pendant jewelry</a><br/>zappos.com<br/><br style="display:none"/></div></p><p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_app&.svc=blogger&id=139693577"><img width="50" align="left" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/139693577.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" height="50" /></a><div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_app&.svc=blogger&id=139693577">Gorjana gold tone jewelry</a><br/>zappos.com<br/><br style="display:none"/></div></p><p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_app&.svc=blogger&id=160816277"><img width="50" align="left" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/160816277.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" height="50" /></a><div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_app&.svc=blogger&id=160816277">Angel wing ring</a><br/>amazon.com<br/><br style="display:none"/></div></p><p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_app&.svc=blogger&id=156797430"><img width="50" align="left" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/156797430.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" height="50" /></a><div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_app&.svc=blogger&id=156797430">J Crew j crew iphone case</a><br/>$66 - jcrew.com<br/><br style="display:none"/></div></p><p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_app&.svc=blogger&id=161893514"><img width="50" align="left" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/161893514.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" height="50" /></a><div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_app&.svc=blogger&id=161893514">Ray-Ban sunglasses</a><br/>$210 - veryexclusive.co.uk<br/><br style="display:none"/></div></p><p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_app&.svc=blogger&id=142112522"><img width="50" align="left" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/142112522.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" height="50" /></a><div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_app&.svc=blogger&id=142112522">River Island lip treatment</a><br/>$10 - riverisland.com<br/><br style="display:none"/></div></p><p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_app&.svc=blogger&id=134786729"><img width="50" align="left" hspace="4" src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/134786729.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" height="50" /></a><div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_app&.svc=blogger&id=134786729">Essie nail polish</a><br/>macys.com<br/><br style="display:none"/></div></p><p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_app&.svc=blogger&id=159031363"><img width="50" align="left" hspace="4" src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/159031363.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" height="50" /></a><div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_app&.svc=blogger&id=159031363">The Hampton Popcorn company</a><br/>macys.com<br/><br style="display:none"/></div></p><p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_app&.svc=blogger&id=160628577"><img width="50" align="left" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/160628577.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" height="50" /></a><div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_app&.svc=blogger&id=160628577">Voluspa colored candle</a><br/>burkedecor.com<br/><br style="display:none"/></div></p><p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_app&.svc=blogger&id=158750795"><img width="50" align="left" hspace="4" src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/158750795.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" height="50" /></a><div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_app&.svc=blogger&id=158750795">Colorful storage box</a><br/>amazon.com<br/><br style="display:none"/></div></p></div></small></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02355048808638459444noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6028961217954873713.post-52094151615596021532016-02-02T13:23:00.001-08:002016-02-02T13:23:35.912-08:00Valentine's Day Gift Guide for the Fitness Lover<div style="width:600px;margin:0 auto"><div style="position:relative;"><a target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/valentines_day_gift_guide_for/set?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=189617773"><img width="600" alt="Valentine's Day Gift Guide for the Fitness Lover" src="http://cfc.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-set/.sig/dtM08FtEh0GTmJuyaMriQ/cid/189617773/id/zB71L-PJ5RGMnH_bihlwOg/size/c600x588.jpg" title="Valentine's Day Gift Guide for the Fitness Lover" height="588" border="0" /></a></div></div><br/><div style="text-align:center"><small><a target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/valentines_day_gift_guide_for/set?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=189617773">Valentine's Day Gift Guide for the Fitness Lover</a> by <a target="_blank" href="http://valofthevilla.polyvore.com/?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger">valofthevilla</a> featuring a <a target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/vitamix_blender/shop?query=vitamix+blender">vitamix blender</a></small></div><div style="width:600px;margin:0 auto"><small><div style="padding-top:16px"><p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=157087547"><img width="50" align="left" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/157087547.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" height="50" /></a><div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=157087547">Nike sneaker</a><br/>bloomingdales.com<br/><br style="display:none"/></div></p><p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=114414489"><img width="50" align="left" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/114414489.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" height="50" /></a><div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=114414489">Beats by Dr Dre tech accessory</a><br/>beatsbydre.com<br/><br style="display:none"/></div></p><p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=126799566"><img width="50" align="left" hspace="4" src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/126799566.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" height="50" /></a><div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=126799566">Fitbit Flex Activity Tracker Wristband</a><br/>lordandtaylor.com<br/><br style="display:none"/></div></p><p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=149591700"><img width="50" align="left" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/149591700.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" height="50" /></a><div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=149591700">Vitamix blender</a><br/>bloomingdales.com<br/><br style="display:none"/></div></p><p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=147586208"><img width="50" align="left" hspace="4" src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/147586208.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" height="50" /></a><div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=147586208">Prana Women Printed Eco Yoga Mat & Holder</a><br/>$97 - luisaviaroma.com<br/><br style="display:none"/></div></p><p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=161174308"><img width="50" align="left" hspace="4" src="http://ak2.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/161174308.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" height="50" /></a><div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=161174308">Everlast Women Pro Style Boxing Gloves</a><br/>$53 - luisaviaroma.com<br/><br style="display:none"/></div></p><p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=154818364"><img width="50" align="left" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/154818364.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" height="50" /></a><div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=154818364">TRIGGER POINT FOAM ROLLER WITH GRID FOR MASSAGE YOGA PILATES REHAB...</a><br/>$27 - amazon.co.uk<br/><br style="display:none"/></div></p><p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=144026405"><img width="50" align="left" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/144026405.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" height="50" /></a><div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=144026405">Camelbak Products Eddy Water Bottle</a><br/>amazon.com<br/><br style="display:none"/></div></p><p style="clear:both;margin:0em;padding:0px"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=126394894"><img width="50" align="left" hspace="4" src="http://ak1.polyvoreimg.com/cgi/img-thing/size/s/tid/126394894.jpg" style="border:1px solid #cccccc;margin:0 8px 8px 0;padding:2px;background-color:#ffffff;" height="50" /></a><div style="margin-bottom:8px;text-align:left;"><a rel="nofollow" target="_blank" href="http://www.polyvore.com/cgi/thing?.embedder=4223336&.src=share_desktop&.svc=blogger&id=126394894">Garmin Forerunner 220 GPS Fitness Monitor</a><br/>rei.com<br/><br style="display:none"/></div></p></div></small></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02355048808638459444noreply@blogger.com0