How come it's so easy???

I was so excited for this update for the past week but when I sat down to write it, BAM writer's block!

Why is it so easy to be negative, focus on the wrongs or could of, would have, should have? It is a sad reality that we are so wired to notice the negative and completely ignore all the POSITIVE!




I am happy to report I have turned a corner and been rejuvenated. For the past 3 weeks I have been adjusting my eating habits for the better. I know I have mentioned this before but this time I am practicing what I preach and actually being honest with myself. Instead doing a designer diet and focusing on drastic changes that I will be unable to sustain, I am taking the knowledge I do know and educating myself on the words of advice from people (my sister, 4 Hour Body and Body Rock) I  believe in. 
A small recap of the changes I promised to make and am sticking to after coming out of my personal denial:
BREAKFAST NO SUGAR, LOTS OF PROTEIN
SUPER FOODS NUTRIENT RICH FOOD FILLS MY PLATE
NO WHITE NO PROCESSED OR REFINED ANYTHING
EATING REGULAR EATING 3-5 MEALS A DAY, NO HUNGER NO SNACKING
I began following a very basic diet that seems very strict but figured out how to feed myself by focusing on health over taste, lean protein, veggies and lentils and that was it. I learned to be creative with spices and combination. From there I realized I was adding a lot of unnecessary snacking, cheese and oils, I wasn't previously holding myself accountable for. I feel satisfied, healthy and happy. I feel strong and encouraged that I have finally gained control of my perception vs. the reality. 

I LOVE MY WORKOUTS! 
They are a part of my daily life and I enjoy them more then sitting down and watching a favorite TV show or drinking a beer. If you are having a hard time getting motivated or staying motivated, these are some things that help me keep going...
#1 I have a workout partner. Even on days we don't workout together, I am so competitive that I  will workout alone to either encourage her or to rub it in her face (that's just me)
#2 Find what works for you, classes, running alone, home vs. gym, training for a event. Variety is awesome and trying enough things you are bound to find one that sticks.
#3 I love buying a new pair of shoes, workout pants, etc. when the other ones are feeling broken down.
I am getting excited to find a new bikini for this summer I have earned it! On that note...

PRAY FOR SUMMER! These "surprise" it snowed 3 feet storms are 
over rated!
 

 

 Happy 3 Month Anniversary!

Yes for anyone who is counting I am officially 29 and 1/4 and if you are reading this you probably haven't glorified or announced a 1/4 birthday since you were 5... Thankfully I am HAPPY and SATISFIED with the progress I have made and where I am headed, 3 month after beginning this journey. Thank you all for your words of encouragement! I love hearing from all of you who are following, it truly helps keep me motivated and driven. I hope I am giving you some encouragement in return! I have been slacking on any hard data or photos but I am hoping to catch up with those soon.

Something Old, Something New, Something Borrowed, Nothing Blue!

The past two weeks I have add a couple new tweaks to my routine... Variety is the spice of life!

Old: Two years ago I took my very first Pilates class. I LOVE Pilates, the blend of strength training and fluid stretching is my recipe for a well rounded routine. I had taken some time off from Pilates and I was so grateful to find out my favorite teacher, Gina De Loia is offering an evening class. I am so excited to reincorporate Pilates back into my routine.

New: BREAKFAST! In an effort to start my day off right I am committing to eating within 30 minutes of waking up. Most days I don't have the time to prepare much. I attempt to start my day off with a serving of protein to get me started. When I have not a minute to spare I make sure to eat a serving of cottage cheese. It may not be balanced but it is something.

I don't wanna look like this guy

Another new diet tweak is my cheese intake. In reality I was eating cheese in every meal and as snacks through out the day. I should be a Packers fan!!! I have made the change and so far it is not painful. I am leaving cheese out of the meals I make and no longer snacking on it. I am hoping this will help my efforts...
PS cottage cheese doesn't count.

Borrowed: I recently purchased a book called the 4 Hour Body. The author has put a lot of research behind testing non-traditional methods of diet and exercises. In the diet portion of the book he introduces a strict diet for 6 days and the 7th day is a binging free for all. I can't bring myself to do this freakish diet but he brought up some valid points about food digestion and more efficient ways to digest foods that should be a part of your regular diet. Long story sort he suggests 120 seconds of exercise pre and post cupcake. I have began squeezing in 40 squats prior to eating something I shouldn't and after. Also if I am out and about drinking and eating less then desirable treats, while on a bathroom break I will also do 40 squats. I laugh a little to myself when I am squatting but 2 things, first it makes me stop and think do I really want this x and don't feel like I am sabotaging my efforts.
*Side note; I can't stand this book. The information is very hard to retain or even receive because the author's talent as a writer is that of an attention starved frat boy turned scientist.