All I Want for Christmas...

I am like a little kid after Christmas looking and admiring all my new gifts under the tree. It seemed to be a running themed Christmas, so I thought I would share with you some of my favorite things I got!

Saucony Ride 4-

Last years model of the Saucony Rides, but I had been running in another pair since last year and really like them.  So excited about a new pair of training shoes! 

Saucony Kinvara 3-

Got these lightweight Saucony shoes for my long runs and races.  By having two pairs of shoes and only wearing these part time it will hopefully make them last longer since lightweight shoes tend to break down more quickly. 

iFitness Ultimate II running belt-

Wanted something to hold my keys and phone even if I didn't take my hydration belt.  Can't wait to try out this belt and give you a review of how it worked!

Foam Roller-

I've been recovering from IT band pain since earlier this past summer.  I should have bought one of these a long time ago, but am excited that I have it now!  Its great for massaging the IT band, calves, and stretching out the back.

Oiselle Roga Shorts-

Do you have issues with your shorts riding up in the crotch while running?  I know I do and it drives me C.R.A.Z.Y!!!  So I did alot of research and heard alot of good things about the Oiselle brand.  The price is definitely a little steep for shorts, so that's why I took the plunge getting it as a gift for Christmas.  I will definitely let you know what I think and if they are worth the price! 

Nike Vapor Jacket-

It's amazing how someone can be so excited about running apparel!  I fall in love with this jacket more every time I look at it.  Just the color makes me happy.  I wanted a lightweight windbreaking jacket...I love that this one has a hood, great pockets, and reflective stripes on the arms. 

 Columbia winter boots-

From what I've noticed about these boots so far is that they are really comfortable!  I somehow lost my old boots a couple years ago and was in need of these with the Wisconsin blizzards deciding to show up this year.  Not only are they warm- but are too cute!

Gorilla Pod-

GENIUS!!!!  That's what these gorilla pods by Joby are.  Pure genius.   Are you like me and tend to drop everything?   My poor Canon point and shoot camera has been through more traumas in its lifetime....I give props to Canon for making something that can live through my abuse.   Whenever Ryan and I are traveling we like to try and get some pictures together.  Unlike some people, I am definitely not afraid to ask strangers to take our picture.  However, sometimes there is no one around to ask! This leaves us trying to find a flat rock.....which sometimes ends in the camera bouncing down the rocks as I stand by and watch it, praying it doesn't break.  This is going to solve both of those problems for us from now on.  You can use this fancy little tripod to set your camera up anywhere....no stranger needed!  Its so small that I won't even notice the extra item being packed into my backpack while hiking.

There are many other little great gifts that I got....but I have to tell you, I have not gotten out of my Snoozies since I opened them Christmas Eve.  I love anything that will keep me warm!  That's one of the reasons why I love Ryan...he keeps me warm when I snuggle with him. :) hehe.

I must have been awfully good this year, because I got awfully lucky with so many great gifts!  Can't believe my birthday is only a few weeks away now! 

What did you get for Christmas?

Fit & Photo Friday

So... it was TIME for a change.  I have been going back and forth about this decision for months now.  This is a picture of me around the time when Ryan and I first met almost 3 years ago.  (Don't we look so young!?)

At the time of this picture was the last time I have gotten a haircut.  Here is a picture of what my hair looks like now after growing it out almost three years!

So I took the plunge.  I got it cut.

It's always a tough decision for me after working so hard to grow it out, but I know it's only hair and it'll grow back!  I do love how light it feels and my curls are so much easier to work with....and my husband LOVES it.  Feels like he has a brand new wife all over again.  haha. 

WORKOUT:

Sunday: Indoor soccer
Monday: Ran 3.5 miles at the gym
Tuesday: 45  min Turbo Fire
Wednsday: Ran 2.0 miles at gym
Thursday: work ran late :(

Hope you have a great weekend! 

Benefits to a Running Partner

One summer I ran almost every training run with a coworker/friend.  I was fortunate to find someone who was close to the same running speed as me.  It was the best year of training I remember ever having.  We would take off for runs after work or meet up at a trail.  Prior to that I always had the mindset that I couldn't run without my ipod in my ears.  I definitely never thought I could handle talking through a run without concentrating on my breathing.  But what I discovered is that there are actually many benfits to having a running partner. 

1. Shared memories.

We were doing some trail running at a nature preserve when we got caught in a rainstorm.  The trail quickly flooded and we gave up even trying to keep our feet dry.  We were soaked from head to toe (luckily we had some blankets in the car to sit on driving home!)  We laughed so hard as we made huge splashes and continued to run anyway.  While it may not have been the best conditions for a run, its experiences like this one that wouldn't be nearly as memorable if you didn't share it with someone else.

2. Makes time fly by.
There were so many runs when we would get into a great conversation and before you knew it we were done with our run!  If you are continually checking your watch and think that time seems to drag on by when you are running, get a running partner!  It will make the time so much more fun.

3. Safety.

I never like to run in secluded areas or on wooded trails by myself, however, those areas can make for the best runs.  Running with a partner can help make you feel more safe when you get on that trail.  You also always have to be aware of the potential of getting injured whenever you run, especially on trails.  While you should always carry a cell phone with you and wear something like a Spibelt, having someone with you will help in emergency situations. 

4. Keeps you committed.

You are more likely to show up to run on days you aren't feeling like it if you have a runing partner.  

5.  Fitness benefits.
When you are forced to learn to talk while you run it helps you not get so winded and helps your breathing over time.  At times when you are wanting to give up or slow down, a partner will keep you running! 

So while it can be hard to find someone at the same fitness level as you, talk with a friend and see if you they would want to meet a fitness challenge with you.  Whether its running your first 5k together, or a marathon- you are sure to have a great time, develop a deeper friendship, and gain fitness benefits from it!

Fit & Photo Friday

Happy Friday!  Here's a couple pictures from my week. 

While driving through Riverside Park in Neenah I snapped this shot.  It amazes me the beauty in our own backyard sometimes!

Here's a little preview for our Christmas card this year.   During my families thanksgiving my sister set up a little photo shoot downstairs.  We had a lot of fun goofing around and came up with some fun shots.

Workout This Week:

Sunday: Indoor Soccer

Tuesday: 3 mile treadmill run 26:40

Wednesday: Turbo Fire 45 min

Thursday: 4 mile treadmill 35:46 (ran back and forth between an 8:45 and 9:13 min pace)

Since we like to spend most of our summer outdoors, this was our first week getting back to the gym.  I always hate the feeling of being the newby at the gym after not going awhile, but I know it doesn't take long to get back into the swing of things. 

I had a couple nice easy runs this week.  I used to focus so much on my time and would get frustrated if I didn't match or beat my previous time.  But with the goal of a first marathon I realize I need to put that behind me and focus on running for the enjoyment I get out of it instead and keep moving to just to finish.

The past few years have been rough as far as running for me.  Two years ago I got sick right before a half I was signed up for which messed up my training.  Last year I got engaged and planned a wedding in 5 months while working and going to school full-time.  I showed up to the half marathon I had signed up for having not run at all in over 2 months with all that had been going on.  Obviously not a personal record run for me there!  Trying to get back into it this summer I developed IT band pain which hurt before even reaching 1 mile! 

I am finally on the road to recovery and have been running without pain now.  Needless to say I am ready and motivated to meet some new running goals and focus on staying injury free.  I'm planning on following the Hal Higdon Novice Training Guide with some little modifications along the way.  It seems like a great program for beginning runners starting with low mileage and working your way up. 

Are you like me and need a goal to stay motivated?  For some it may be a goal to get fit for a wedding, or to wear a bikini on a upcoming vacation.  Maybe you need a workout partner to help stay committed, or to start writing a blog!  Whatever it may be, find your goal and motivation to complete it- I know you can do it!

Have a great weekend!

Natural Ways to Boost Immune System

With the winter season on its way the sniffles and colds will be in full force soon!  So what are some natural ways to keep healthy and boost your immune system?  Research shows that these are all natural immune boosters, so try to get your fill of these things to stay healthy this winter!

1.  Vitamin D- Taking Vitamin D during the winter is essential to your health.  The amount of sun exposure we get during the dark winter months decreases our levels of Vitamin D which in turn lowers our bodies ability to fight viruses.
2.  Aloe Vera- Aloe Vera juice not only fights viruses and bacteria, but also aids in digestion.
3. Reduce Sugar Consumption- Whenever you eat alot of high fructose corn syrup it will weaken your immune system. 

4.  Vitamin C- Contains antioxidants that fight cold and flus.  Eat lots of fruits or vitamin C supplements.

5. Garlic- It contains antibacterial, antiviral, antifungal, and antiseptic properties.  Add 2 cloves to your ingredients while cooking and it will help keep you healthy all winter!

6. Zinc-Can help shorten the duration of a cold.  In over the counter items like Zicam and Coldeeze drops.
7. Rest- Get at least 6-8 hours of sleep a night to let your body fight off anything and recover! 
8. Drink lots of water- help flush anything out of your body by staying hydrated. 

My Busy Night

I felt like I had a really productive night after work yesterday.  First I got home and did Turbo Fire for an hour.  My friend borrowed me her Turbo Fire videos which I am really enjoying.  I also have alot of P90X videos, but its nice to change things up when it comes to video workouts I think.  She does a lot of squats during her workouts which is great for the butt!   There's also a lot of punching and arm movement.  As sad as it is, my arms are really sore this morning from it.  Shows just how weak I am!

Since winter is coming is seems to be dark by the time I get home from work, and dark when I wake up, so I am using this as cross training for days I can't get outside to run.  The snowflakes yesterday didn't make running outside any more appealing either.  Can't believe winter is coming! 

The worst part of doing the videos is jumping and punching in front of the TV while my husband sits on the couch and watches me.  I am sure I don't look as good or as graceful as the ladies on Turbo Fire do.  haha.

The videos do come with a workout schedule that you can follow.  There are about 10 videos total. 

 After the workout I started the dresser painting project.  I got this primer so that I wouldn't have to do any paint stripping or sanding.  The paint is black from Sherwin Williams. 

First I took out all the drawers and removed the handles.

I cleaned the handles after I took them off the drawers.  I know its a little gross, but the handle on the right is what they all looked like when I took them off.  Then after I cleaned them they looked brand new like the one on the left!  Excited to see how nice the silver looks against the black once I'm done.

Didn't have time to start painting, but I put the first coat of primer on before bed.

Look forward to sharing the finished product!

Detox Results

Day 1:

• 2 glasses of lemon water upon rising in the morning
• I drank at least 8 glasses of water throughout the day
• Lunch: Smoothie with orange juice, strawberries, mango, pineapple, banana, avacado, and flaxseed
• Snack: Juice with apple, spinach, and lemon 
• Dinner: Smoothie with orange juice, flaxseed, and mixed fruit, cooked brocolli

The first day was pretty easy until it got to dinner time.  Of course Ryan ate pizza and ice cream for dinner, so I ate a smoothie and brocolli to help cure my hunger so I didn't cave in. 

Day 2:

• 2 glasses of lemon water
• Drank 8 glasses of water throughout the day
• Breakfast: Smoothie with flaxseed, mixed fruit, and orange juice
• Snack: Had an apple, orange, and pear throughout the day as a snacks when hungry
• Lunch: Juice with carrots, spinach, apple, and lemon
• Dinner: cooked brocolli, baked chicken

Around dinner was the hardest part of the cleanse for me.  Some cleanses are a mix of proteins and fiber, so I decided to add in 1 serving of baked chicken (palm size) which really helped cure my hunger cravings and gave me more energy.

Day 3:

• 2 glasses lemon water upon rising
• 6 glasses of water throughout the day
• Lunch: Smoothie of orange juice, fruit, and flaxseed
• Snack: raw apple and pear
• Dinner: baked chicken, sweet potatoe

Weight Loss: 4 lbs

Results:  I found that the cleanse did help calm my daily stomach digestion problems.  On the second day I really noticed my sinuses clearing out.  They say that your sense of smell can heighten, which is really true.  I don't think I would ever do a cleanse more that a few days.  I recommend doing a cleanse for anyone trying to figure out if you have food allergies, by slowly adding those foods back into your diet afterwards and seeing if side effects occur.  Also for me it was a good way of gaining control over sugar cravings.  You can become so dependant on sugar.  If you are motivated to do the cleanse, I think its a great way to gain control over those cravings and your appetite.

There are warnings and bad effects from cleanses, especially if done the wrong way.  Make sure you are not doing more harm than good by not giving your body the right nutrients for a long period of time.  Also going right from a cleanse to eating tons of sugar would probably not agree with your system very much.  There are cleanses like the The New Detox Diet that include proteins like fish, chicken, or beans and grains like quinoa or steel oats, along with large amounts of fruits and vegetables.  This seems like the healthiest cleanse because it is giving you all the nutrients your body needs, and helps give you guidelines to follow for a whole/nonprocessed, high fiber diet. 

The Detox Diet

I’ve been hearing a lot about detox diets/or cleanses recently which has sparked my interest to learn more.  I started reading a few books like The Great American Diet and The New Detox Diet. 

What is a detox?  With the amount of processed foods and sugar Americans consume, our hunger tends to never be satisfied because we don't have enough fiber from fruits and vegetables in our diets.  I am definitely among that list.  I love sugar….ice cream being culprit number one! By fasting from certain foods for a period of time you are helping your body release toxins from your organs, sinuses, and skin.

Cleanses can help rest or heal our overloaded digestive organs, increase energy, aid in weight loss, and help cure many medical conditions such as food and seasonal allergies, headaches, diarrhea, skin conditions and eczema.  Those that know me well know that I have a sensitive stomach and suffer from allergies.  I have always wanted to try an experiment to see if eliminating the sugar and processed foods from my diet would help improve these symptoms.  However, I continue to have that bowl of ice cream even though I know I’ll pay for it later! 

There are many different types of detox diets plans. 

*smoothies

*juices

*fruits and vegetables with small amounts of chicken or fish
*and variety in length of time it lasts 

After completing the cleanse the biggest mistake people can make is going immediately back to their normal diet which can throw your body off causing an upset stomach. A transition back to your regular diet must be made by eating soups, lots of fiber, and baked chicken. 

So my detox journey begins today!  My cleanse diet will consist of fruit and vegetable juices or raw fruits and veges from Thursday through Saturday.  I will track what I eat, any weight loss, and consume half of my weight in ounces worth of water throughout the day in between juices.  Drinking lots of water is an important part of the cleanse.  Look forward to sharing my results with you!

Have any of you ever tried a detox cleanse before?

What types of sugar foods can't you resist? 

Tips for new runners

Everyone starts running feeling the same way.  You step out the door feeling good, and after a block or two the heavy breathing sets in that makes you feel WAY out of shape.  "Why am I even trying?" you think.  "I'm never gonna be a runner." Its a tough road at first...but if you stick with it and are consistent for a few weeks, it will pay off and get easier!  

Here are a few tips I learned from when I started running:

1. Invest in good shoes.

You want to make sure you start out wearing good shoes.  Shoes that are very used can lead to injuries and knee pain.  Make sure you start out on the right foot! 

2. Purchase comfortable clothing

When you first start running you may not always feel good, but you want to at least know you look good!  If your clothing is comfortable, it’ll be one less thing to hold you back.  Try to run in fabrics other than cotton.  Also invest in good running socks like Balega or Smartwool made of fabrics to prevent blisters.  I find a lot of good deals at Target and TJ Max on running clothes for a reasonable price, and purchase socks at Scheels or Fleet Feet.

3. Set a goal

Setting a goal of running your first 5K, 10K, or half marathon will give you a lot more motivation to keep going.   Once you are signed up for a race and pay for it you are more likely to stick with it!

4. Be Consistent- Follow a plan

There are numerous running plans online or at Runners World.  Running at least 3-4 times a week will help you notice results, instead of running once and then waiting another week before you get back out.  You will get discouraged if you don’t notice things get easier because you’re not consistent in your running.  I would write down on my calendar how many miles I had to run each day.  That way when things came up, running was part of my schedule and I had to work around the time I needed to get my run in before doing other things.

5. Hydrate

You won’t feel as thirsty if you are well hydrated the day of your run. 

6. Eat 2 hours before

Don’t eat a big meal right before you go for a run.  It may make you feel sluggish or sick.  Eat about 2 hours before you head out to make sure your foods digested!

7.  Plan Fun Routes

I often go to Map My Run to plan different routes.  It gives you a street map of the area you live and calculates the distance for you.  Saves you from getting in your car and driving the route afterwards to see how far you went. 

Hope some of these tips help!

Did you notice that Rachelle is has a new look?   Please have patience as I continue to work on it, but take a look at the new layout and let me know what you think!

Stalker!

First off, my husband is AmAzInG!  Being the generous man that he is, he let me use some gift cards we had to purchase a running watch I've had my eyes on.  The newest and most affordable Garmin Forerunner 10.  This is a basic gps watch for those runners who are just wanting to know their pace, distance and calories.  I like its small size, and am excited to do some trail running with it!

 

Second, for those of you who don't know, I am a stalker.......of blogs!!  I have been obsessed with blogs like the Skinny Runner and The Hungry Runner Girl.  I am so inspired by them and their dedication to fitness...the girl from hungry runner was running throughout her pregnancy!  Wow! Now I admit, I read these blogs and my first thought is, "what do they do for a living?"  I mean, it seems like running and the blog has to BE their job...how else could they stay in such great shape?!

 Since I love sports, exercise/fitness has always been such a big part of my life growing up that I never had to think twice about my weight throughout the years.  But man, you can sure tell that 30 is right around the corner!  Yikes!  It seems like the older I get the harder it is to stay motivated and to find the time.  Then I think, maybe its time to stop with the excuses about how busy life is and how I have no time and just suck it up.  I am a pretty determined person, (just ask my husband!) and I truly believe that whatever I put my mind too I can accomplish.  I am a normal everyday girl, with a job that has the same crazy hours like everyone else.  Will it take dedication...yes.  Will it take sacrifice....absolutely.   But if these bloggers can do it, why can't I?  Why can't I dedicate myself to being fit, and through the process inspire other people to do the same? 

My goal has always been to run a full marathon before I am 30.  I would also like to keep up this lifestyle so that when I do have children, I can hopefully keep doing it throughout my pregnancy.  I truly believe that if I am happy, confident, and healthy, I will be a better wife and mother someday because of it.  I think both physical and spiritual health are very important, and I want to strive to be both in this life.

 So thank you readers for joining me on this journey!

Do you not know that in a race all runners run, but only one receives the prize?  So run that you may obtain it.  Every athlete exercises self-control in all things.  They do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we are imperishable.  So I do not run aimlessly; I do not box as one beating air.  But I discipline my body and keep it under control, lest after preaching to others I myself should be disqualified. 

1 Corinthians 9:24-27

Fox Cities Half Marathon

Ryan ran his first half marathon this past weekend.  It was an early and chilly morning with the race starting out at 7am in Appleton.  We had everything laid out the night before so we wouldn't forget anything.  I had my bike in my car so that after he started, I could drive to the finish and then bike back and meet him along the run. 

I found him around mile 7.   Still a smile on his face, so he must've been feeling pretty good yet!  He even found his cousin in the large group of people.

Here he is coming in for a strong finish.  The whole family was there to cheer him in.

Congratulations Hubby!  We are proud of you!