Here’s To NO Carb Days… You Suck.

It’s the end of day 5 of no carbs (besides for the not even a quarter cup of oats I had this morning, that didn’t do squat for me). For those who compete you’re thinking nothing of it. For those who enjoy pasta, pizza, breads, and everything that basically completes a meal, just imagine your days without it. On top of that eat only egg whites, boiled chicken, spinach and broccoli (portioned of course). This will explain why I haven’t been responding to many texts, calls, or emails and why I am acting the way I am…

Your mind starts to mess with you when you restrict yourself of such luxuries we call Carbohydrates. You feel fine. Quite honestly, I don’t feel nauseous or light headed. I’m tired though, really tired in fact. My body didn’t feel like it fully recovered from any of the workouts because I’m still exhausted climbing the stairs up to my room. Mind over matter right? What do you do when your mind starts thinking irrationally than? Being out in DeKalb during most of this week I dealt with more of my b*tchiness than I ever have. Cameron, my roommate may have noticed me being always on edge or just completely quiet most of the time other than when I was engaging in a conversation that did not concern me, food, or what I was doing. I still held no patience for the people who complained about things that were not worth wasting energy over. I usually stared blankly, nodded, and changed the subject so that I could conserve my own energy. I get annoyed very easily just thinking about the diet, my body (but not so much anymore), and the people who still insist on asking on Facebook what I’m training for when it is clearer than a revelation from God what I’ve been bustin’ my ass for. So I hear that 99% of the population fails at doing this type of competition because of the diet and if you need it, I’m living proof of the consequences of nutrient depletion and why 1% competes. We are psychotic, quite frankly. I’m moody and I don’t care what people have to say because the filter for the words that come out of my mouth broke this week.

I managed to stay focused though, sorta.  I’m typing this and I’m looking at the dye on my skin that makes me look Cuban, obviously not focusing at all, thinking more of what it was like to be pale. Talking from personal experience, I’ve never been one to show my body…naked… but when competition time rolls around you find yourself stepping way out of your skin to look your best. What do I mean? No homo of course… I had a girl paint my body with this dye. Not only that we had awesome conversations while we were waiting for it to dry.  I won’t mention her name unless she tells me otherwise, but she was telling me how at these shows the girls are usually sitting in the make-up/locker/dressing room talking and chilling naked waiting for this faker than fake tan stuff to dry.

Just when you think you’ve heard it all right?…. This industry is wack, but I like the craziness… Not the whole painting naked bodies thing but we are all human so you learn to shrug off what was once “totally weird” because I’m sure I’ll see more weird things at these competitions.

By the way, you don’t need to tell me how blunt, or as I’d like to call it, “honest”, I am in this post because I’m well aware of what I’m saying, but because of this diet making my emotions swing like a pendulum, I. Don’t. Care. Anyway, I’m waiting for time to pass so I can eat my last meal before heading off to bed.  I didn’t do anything today yet my body feels like it weighs a ton. On a positive note, despite how “off-the-wall” rude I may seem right now, my confidence broke through the clouds today. The positive criticism and phenomenal support is never ending and I wish I knew how to keep up with the thank you’s that I need to pay.

One more hour before another 4 egg whites and about 2 cups of broccoli, mmmm protein and fibrous vegetables.

Peace out world

And though my diet doesn’t really allow me to follow what I believe I’ll end my post as I usually would…

Live Healthy, Live Happy

My Reasons, My Lessons, My Life. Competition Prep And The Whole Shabang

For those who know me and my interests, which are rather apparent now-a-days. You could probably guess that I LOVE anything health and fitness related…I don’t know though, that’s just my opinion.

Over my “Spring Break”; I say it in quotes because it went waaay to fast for it to feel like a break, I began learning more, about…well, everything. More than I did in the first half of the semester- In all aspects, not just nutrition. It seems when I go home, I do my studying on the topics of people as well as the extreme break down of my diet and training. I’ll explain further in a second. While I’m at school, I’m learning what is necessary for the piece of paper to only validate what I’m learning and what I preach could be scientifically correct. Notice, I did not mean that I AM CORRECT, I’m saying that the information I learned and absorbed had legitimate studies and results to help people today achieve their healthy lifestyle goals. I know this can be argued because in today’s world of nutrition and exercise there are so many “right way’s” to be nutritionally, physically, and mentally healthy when it comes down to the individual, that a person could tweak any one diet and call it their own, publish a book and make millions. As for me… my body is my guinea pig. I’ve said it time and time again and like the hand-me-down cars I get, I will run it to the ground as so long as I’m doing what I love.

Let me make it clear NOW, so that I don’t have people for one taking offense to anything I say, I am not pointing this at any ONE person unless I say so. Regardless, if I had to come to that point you must have really done something to tick me off. If you feel I am, than send me an email or message me on Facebook (not on my wall please), because I’m trying to make this and the rest of my life drama free. Which lately seems rather impossible but anyway, the reason why I say this now is that this post is going to touch on the emotional and physical impact of doing this competition preparation because in all respect it has been life changing.

My “excuse” as real as it is, is that the diet, primarily, is changing me. Not just my body but my personality. I also don’t mean it as that the food that I’m eating has a direct impact due to chemical imbalances of pesticides and all that, because for the past 6, I have eaten nothing but clean. What does that mean you ask? In short, lean meats, greens and protein shakes.

Yeah, that’s it.

This is nothing like what I have in my gym bag...

My body is clean. I feel it to. Those who are so in-tune with their body you’ll know what I mean. Like a type of meditation, you can listen to what your body has to tell you. What it needs and feeds off of. What gives you the most energy, what is a “filler”, and God forbid what it craves. Gum is my new best friend. I don’t have much to help me push through till the next meal. I don’t know what I’d do if I didn’t have this BCAA’s drink mix that I have. Anything with a fruity flavor works wonders for tricking the mind. For those who are reading up on what I’m talking about as far as “supplements”… I’ll touch on them in the simplest terms and definitions if need to be. BCAA’s or Branch Chain Amino Acids help (greatly) with muscle recovery, decrease muscle degradation and increase protein synthesis as well as many other things. Why do I worship these? At the rate my body is leaning out I feel the effects of everything I take in (or don’t take in rather). I have my BCAA’s in a drinkable Berry flavored form so it not only holds off cravings but it provides much needed energy due to the lack of carbs. I take Fish Oil, a multi-vitamin, and with preference I take a green tea supplement for an additional energy boost. Mind you people reading this, what I am doing will not necessarily work for you. I’ll explain further.

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Why does this diet of mine have to be SO low in carbs? This is mainly so that my body will then find its energy source from other forms of fuel, such as fat and protein. BUT this is where it gets tricky. I don’t want it to use the protein I take in because I use that to build and more so maintain my muscle mass. I’ll wither away if I allow myself to protein deplete. So this is where my training kicks in. My workouts are quick, intense, exhausting and there’s no bullsh*ttin’.  Unless you are my friends who can motivate me and push me harder and lift heavier, I don’t send out invites. I go to the gym to get my work done and get home. No guys talk to me at the Recreational Center at NIU unless they knew me before I started this training. God forbid any girls talk to me other than in the locker room and I’m getting ready to leave. By all means I’m all ears then! Just so long I get my protein and carbs in within the first half hour after the workout and I promise to have a smile on my face.

There are only a few people who will get what my roommate means by that post-it.

I’m skipping around with topics but I can’t seem to concentrate on one thing because there’s so much that has happened over the course of the weeks since I started dieting and training that it is hard to control my thoughts…let alone my appetite. Greater good has made its way into my life while there were some bad moments but people seem to pull around once they get a grip. I’ll apologize first, though this isn’t necessary because everyone should come to accept this fact that there is no magic number, magic pill, or easy button. I cannot tell you how much you should take in as far as calories, fats, proteins, and carbs and whether it will get you to look like how I am right now. I hate to break it to ya’ll but this sh*t ain’t easy. It has become a full time job for me. On top of school, people have already discovered that I have no social life. What they can’t seem to accept is how I am okay with that. Between dieting, training, school, posing and meeting with the people pulling me through it all, I have no concept of time. Then the weekend comes and it just means longer training periods or prepping food for the next week. Tanning is in there sometime to, granted 10 minutes in a standup is no vacation.

Regardless, it has been crazy to watch my body change. Though it may be or may seem little to me it comes across as drastic to everyone else watching me. I’ve been figuring out more about myself and the people I love through these weeks than ever before. What I see in myself is too obvious to deny. I’ve been blessed when it comes down to my body and I finally see it. My body utilizes and metabolizes every bit of protein, carbs and fasts that I feed it every 2-3 hours. I haven’t had to diet as long as some figure competitors and the results still show. I have to stay lean but my problem is if I get too lean I could be classified more as the bodybuilding type. Funny though, this is the only time I’ll say I could swing both ways. As the days get closer, the game I’m playing is filled with curve balls. I was convinced, for the experience and to relieve my stage fright, to sign up for a show that is on April 16^th (yeah that’s next Saturday). I’m nervous. My workouts and diet changed overnight it seems because now I’m more focused on what I need to emphasize more to be stage ready. I’m over thinking everything I know but…

Me? On stage?! I’ve never been a performer or an actress despite how dramatic my life can be at times. I keep telling my mom to watch my life instead of her soup operas… I guess this is the time for me to show the world what I’ve got.

I have to constantly be convinced that I’ll be ready. The fact that I didn’t have to diet as long makes me wonder if I did something wrong. I haven’t used thermogenics or any other metabolism boosting supplements other than the green tea I drink, simply because I don’t need to. It is completely possible to get this lean through dieting, regardless of how hard that concept is to grasp for some. But really, wasn’t I supposed to be dreaming about food about this time? Possibly experience such huge emotional swings that people think I’m a demon of some sort? Shouldn’t I be hating myself for going through this? Shouldn’t I NOT be enjoying this?

Apparently, this just may be everything I’ve ever wanted. This just might as well be the permanent lifestyle change that sets me apart from the rest. I say this eating another 6oz serving of boiled chicken breast, 2 cups of steamed spinach and ¼ cup of almonds…not even warm. Being completely serious though, other than those training for similar competitions, who else eats Tilapia at 9 in the morning? Or oatmeal and tuna in one sitting? Not mixed of course. I’m not that desperate for new flavors. All I think of now when I see my meals is protein, complex carbs and healthy fats.

I am, by no means, the strongest figure competitor in training. I have my weak points. I get frustrated walking through the grocery store wanting to even sample what sweets I love, I could almost cry. I usually go with someone to help me get what I need and get out. I always leave a store with a new pack of gum though… or if I’m leaving Costco, I’m simply restocking. Come to think of it, my cravings lately have been just the urge of wanting one more almond or a spoonful more of oats. Carbs were my best friend when I was running and so my body screams for them when I’m cycling them through the week. I do not know how obvious I make it, whether I show the weakness of mine, but those cravings become so uncomfortable it makes it hard to smile or simply laugh because all you want to do is satisfy that constant urge. Food crosses my mind so much it might make a fat person hurl. Somehow though, through the weeks, I’ve lost weight and body fat. I was around probably 15% (totally guessing) but I’m now down to ~12-13% body fat. My weight varies throughout the day but first thing in the morning, when I have nothing in my stomach, not even water, 117 shines bright up in my face. Mind you, I’m apparently “heavy” for my height class. Reason being as everyone puts it… I’m jacked.

Alicia Harris IFBB Pro, a HUGE help and an even greater inspiration!

I guess it’s been always a matter of right and wrong. Just when it all seems right, suddenly I was at wrong. Life, I learned has been scarred by the saying “follow your heart” and like everything it is really up to the individual whether they wish to make it a positive or negative experience if they choose to do just that.  It has, I guess, baffled me that those who would be the ones to tell me to “follow my heart” were the ones to disagree with my actions. Curious as to why, they say I pushed them away. So this makes me selfish because I am finally focusing on myself and what makes me happy? I have become absorbed into what I do and the resources that have come into my life and chose to stay to help me till the end. So I have to have a stamp of approval in order to confide in other knowledgeable resources?  Don’t worry people, mommy and daddy approve of my new friends and maybe we can call get together for coffee sometime so you can see that I’m not pulling people off the streets when it comes to my information, training and nutrition. (Yes I am getting defensive now) I feel that I am old enough to make my own decisions on what I feel will be best for me. Is that so much a problem? I have been told time and time again that this is a selfish sport. I am already making drastic changes, why should I expend any more energy trying to make sure that everyone else is happy? I understand that sharing experiences is part of life but when you always get some negative comment towards any move you make, it makes you anti-social, reserved and well adding to the effects of the diet…cranky, because people suck and so does low carb days. The blunt comments don’t help by the way. When you ask “So you can’t have this?” and the answer is obviously, “yes”, don’t reply with “that sucks” because I already know that.

(Deep breath)

It is though, the weirdest feeling, the very opposite of what you’re used to…when your heart stands strong and still, unmoved and emotionless while it is your mind that bends and breaks with uncertainty with the insanity of it all. Simply because your heart holds the determination and will and your mind just needs to figure out how to manage it. I have never been this happy with myself and it has become so apparent that my family and friends have told me the noticeable change.

Before I end this post I just want to say as a reminder that, I do not mean for this to be directed towards one person. There is no ONE person. Through the time I started this competition training, I’ve had people walk out of my life, bring me down, and other unnecessarily negative consequences  that tend to happen when you do something to make yourself happy. I am choosing to do nothing, simply because I do not know what else to do for one, but I will continue to follow my heart because it has not failed me yet.

I owe much more than a thank you to an incredible friend of mine who has been pushing through this harder and longer than I have. Whitney, if it wasn’t for you I wouldn’t have gotten the confidence to even bring myself to my feet (even into clear heels) to start the journey of accomplishing my dream. Words are only words though; I owe you much more than that.

I also feel I have to give out my thanks, appreciation and the lack of words to describe how I feel to a certain someone, whom I met at the end of my 2^nd week of dieting. He has done nothing but pushed me forward, since we met. I’ve become stronger, emotionally and mentally and without fail my confidence has never been higher. Jason, I owe you more than you know. You not only showed me what commitment is when your passion becomes your lifestyle but you’ve engrained in my head your knowledge that has done nothing but prove the world wrong. I am, as you put it, a reflection of your work and I hope that when I get up on that stage, and may there be more, that I exceed your expectations. You’ve been an amazing trainer, writing out my workouts for the week so I had one less thing to worry about. You’ve been an incredible nutritionist calculating everything down to my caloric, carb, protein and ever so low fat intake to help me stay on track. I didn’t know my macronutrient breakdown was so complicated for my body type. Beside the point, the preparation for this competition, the results, and the judges’ call is not just my goal anymore but ours. I must admit, we make a remarkable team.

My support system leaves me speechless. I thank everyone who has pitched in their time and effort to keep me on my toes and motivated. You have no idea and it still seems almost impossible to actually put it in words how powerful of a movement and an inspiration your words and actions have been. These weeks have been filled with great uncertainty but none of it has faltered my determination to succeed. I am at awe and honestly kind of helpless because I wish to repay you all for everything you have done, even if it is a hilarious reply to my progress pictures, but I have no idea how to express my gratitude to the extent that it is deserved. My only hope is that you will all accept my thanks in means of me saying, I will not let you down.

I'm no pro...yet

Morning posing and cardio tomorrow. I’m outta here world.

P.S. More pictures to come.

Live Healthy, Live Happy

 

Live Healthy, Live Happy.

After the passing of the family dog, I found myself doing what I typically do to grieve. I stayed at my apartment, did my share of crying, I slept a few hours after doing so and moped around for awhile. Since I am away at school, I was not able to be home with my parents and older brother to miss Spike the way I should but I found myself in a more fortunate situation and here is why.

God, I still miss the dog, don’t get me wrong. But when you feel a weight at the end of your bed that was never there before, only to find it was nothing, you know deep inside it must have been something. I feel no need to mourn, though the pictures I see always bring tears to my eyes. I’m still in awe of how long and short 16 years have been and I still hear Spike panting away next to me wanting to go outside. If he just waits awhile longer I’ll be heading out myself for my morning cardio. The dog was a fighter and could always outrun me (even chasing after rabbits in the yard). I give him the credit he deserves because I don’t think I would have been made the runner I am now if it wasn’t for his energetic personality always getting me to run after him. His humble look and content aura he always gave taught me just to smile regardless of how my day went. No, Spike, you taught me more than that, and I see it now.

It is not determined by the passing of a single day but rather the quality of life lived that should be looked upon and seen as something to be proud of. Especially now, when I am pushing through workouts that are beyond what I used to be able to do and subsiding hunger on a timely basis, I only feel myself smile even if it is a little one. I came a hell of a long way even from a few months ago. My family and dogs especially Spike have been the witnesses to that. When I have a lifetime to reach my goals, I only find myself accomplishing more than I expected and I would not take anything back. So, Spike, as you continue to rest after a lifetime of running, playing, and impacting the ones you love unconditionally and vice versa, in only a positive way, just know that I am working to do just the same. Though playing will be interchanged with “work” and “studying” my days will feel fulfilled regardless. Fulfilled days will lead to a well lived life and that is all Spike could have hoped for.  Thanks for the lifetime of motivation old man.

Live Healthy, Live Happy.

Spike, You Taught Us Well.

I must say, it is the weirdest sensation to have your heart reach out to something that is no longer with you in person. The Vegter family lost a true companion after 16 phenomenal (human) years. I thank all those who have supported my family and I through this. Spike, the Cocker Spaniel that everyone knew, and I mean EVERYONE knew all too well. So well that my friend’s whom I haven’t seen in the longest time would often ask, “Is he STILL alive?!” And it was for quite awhile that my family and I were convinced that he was going to outlive us. The dog was invincible, one of the most incredible fighters I know. There are endless stories of that dog getting into trouble that should have left him dead but rather he walked away always healthy with his little stub of a tail wagging.

Spike will be remembered from these last few years for his clumsiness, his floppy ears that caught everything, his bad breath, his small “drowned rat” look after he was groomed, and endless hours of sleeping. Needless to say though, he will always be recognized and never forgotten for his loyalty, patience and unconditional love. Somethings, most everyone should learn in their lifetime. I do believe though, that those who grow up with a dog for so many years learn the true definition of those words. I was 5 years old when Spike came into my life. Though the memory isn’t the clearest, there are many which have been flooding my mind throughout the day that remind me how well lived Spike’s path was. I am sad, no doubt. I am definitely at peace with the idea of Spike being pain free and healthy in a better place. My heart longs for him to be back in his puppyhood and back in my arms again. I know as well, that no dog will ever replace him.

Rest only in peace, Spike. Who would have ever thought that such a little dog could teach so many, so much, in 16 well lived yet seemly short years. You will be missed by all of those who have fallen in love with you from the start. You were an incredible friend, with an amazing personality and sense of humor that no other could replicate. You are, Spike, a man’s best friend. I love you and miss you as do the rest of the Vegter family.

Hungry… With Motivation That Is

Needless to say I laughed when I titled this blog!

I am cooking my food for the week, right now. Chicken breasts are laid out, plain and unseasoned for now. Cayenne pepper may have to be added and they will be cut into small pieces. Broccoli is baking, plain but toasting. They taste like french fries to me. Sweet potatoes will be baked and cut into quarters or smaller. Spinach will be made into very bland salads with a small portion of tuna…maybe. Depends on whether I want Chicken or fish. Almonds separated into 10-12 count portions. Eggs might have to be hard boiled this time, the yolk will be removed. I have my collection of shakers for the protein(s) and BCAA’s, my pill reminder for the morning which consists of the alphabet in vitamins and minerals, water and my endless supply of gum, sugar-free of course. That’s not even half of it! I bought a lunch box, that looks like a purse, insulated on the inside so I can carry my “meals” everywhere.

Cameron, my roommate’s diet is well…interesting. Grilled jelly sandwhich in the morning, grilled cheese in the afternoon, a burger at night all mixed in with the occassional grapefruit plus Vitamin C pills, Very Green Multivitamins, washed down with  Koolaid or beer and a glass of red wine. He has his own food pyramid. Needless to say he has seen no results he is still skinny as hell.

I must make a side note that this weekend, though challenging with the diet, being home and surrounded by mom’s home-cooked meals, fighting urges and pushing though exhausting workouts… it was awesome. The motivation was fed to me from high school teachers of mine, new friends of which I made and old friends remaining confident and supportive in what I am doing. Trust me, your support is appreciated beyond words and it makes my day so much easier, in a way I could not even begin to explain.

As far as the diet goes, I’m not surprised of the results I have accomplished already. My body has always been good to me as far as utilizing what energy I give it in the form of food. My build, well has always been rather apparent. Running as much as I have increases my metabolism all the more and eating every two hours now makes my digestive system go into overdrive. I’m always hungry and each day it gets a little harder but I keep telling myself, and all those who struggle with anything they do regarding weight loss, exercising, etc; it is only as hard as you make it. If you think it will be difficult, it sure as hell will be.

With the help of my friend Whitney, also pushing through the workouts and diet to compete in the same show (different class though), she gave me ideas to keep me on track and motivated. I have a food log to write EV-VER-REE-THING (everything) down. I write, not only in this but either in my spirals in class or in a word document on my computer about how I am feeling, my motivation or lack there of, my determination, my dreams, anything of which will log my experience. I am determined to tell the world how far I set myself apart from the rest of the crowd. My commitment to a lifestyle change that has become engrained in my head and ultimately my preference above any other lifestyle I could have chosen. Remember, I am in college. My options could be very good (healthy) or very bad (unhealthy).

My purpose for all this? I want to leave an impression. I want to be remembered. I want to be a role model, a positive influence, and an inspiration. I admit to smiling right now because there are people I know who would tell me to my face that I am. I just want to do more. I’ll be honest, those girls on the cover of magazines like Oxygen or Fitness Rx. I’m willing to do what it takes to put my face on there. If it means competing in more figure competitions, I will. If it means finding sponsorships and working up from there, I will. What’s disappointing is that you can’t put “extreme, off-the-charts determination and will” on applications. Everything has to be documented, signed, sealed and official. So, to be “official” I’ll participate, I’ll compete and I’ll make this dream of mine official.

I so just psyched myself up for this week. On that note, I am off to study then to la la land to dream of rockin’ a body worth putting on the cover of a fitness magazine. Of course… with my drive… Soon enough dreaming it may be unnecessary.

I Consider My Sponsors, No Matter What The Support.

For those who keep track of my blog, first off, thank you. You’re support to continue reading my thoughts and allow me to feed you with what information I gain through school, personal experiences and my own research, I hope, in turn helps you some way, some how. A good solid reason for why I started this blog was and still is to one day get sponsored, to get my name out there so that I can continue doing what I love. Well my love has expanded. May 7th I plan on competing in my first Natural Figure Competition. For those who know me personally, I know you are all raising an eyebrow and saying “Wow, Janel. You’re stepping WAY out of your element.” and believe me I know I am. I want to be an inspiration not only for other women but for myself as well. I’ve fought long and hard to maintain where my body is at now and I’m willing to push past my limit once again to prove that I can do even greater things. If it means getting myself through a strict no-carb, no-sugar, eat nothing but broccoli, spinach, chicken breast, white fish and protein shakes weeks straight. I will. If it means getting myself into a posing suit to be judged on how hard I worked. I will. If it means flexing on stage in front of hundreds…(like I do in the mirror everyday, I admit and damn proud of it). I will.

This isn’t easy though. There’s quite a bit I need to get, besides food, that will help me prepare for this. Protein- Pure whey isolate, no-carb, Casein protein, and glutamine just to start. Supplements will only enhance my workout performance as well as allowing me to lean out to a body fat percentage past a pro-athlete’s. Then there’s the registration, the NPC card, the shoes, the posing suit, the stuff that will turn me orange for a few days, but is used to show the muscle definition on stage…and I still have to find out more.

This is where I ask…Mom and Dad to stay out of donating this time around. You have done enough and I know you will help me if I need it. Just think me achieving this goal is my thanks for everything you’ve done. If you would like to promote my blog so that friends and family will see this that is all I could ask for from you guys. I love you guys and thank you beyond words. This is where though, I want to turn to those who wish to support me. Again, DO NOT feel obligated. I will not be mad or hold anything against you, because I understand money is tight for many. I am not asking for huge donations either. Any amount will be greatly appreciated and all of it will go towards reaching this goal of placing in this competition. I will happily and with great honor consider all of you my sponsors since your support is above and beyond what I’ve ever imagined. If you cannot donate, words of encouragement are always, always, always welcomed.

With that being said. I will not let you down.

Running Really Is Cheaper

These past couple of weekends have been filled with things I need to put down in words for the world to see. It gives you an idea of what I encounter each and every run I go on, workout I conquer, or honestly simply spending time with loved ones. Last Saturday was a 13 mile “long run”. Generally, I’d consider this a long run but after a marathon a long run is anything over 15 or 16 miles. It’s sad but no joke. I’m sure, after I do my first 50k, whenever that will be, I’d be saying a marathon is a “long run”. Anyway, I was feeling good, the entire way, running with Ralene, and our Glen Ellyn Runner buddies Frank and Therese. Oh the conversations!

I’ll thank him again for hosting a personal therapy session with me, because of it though we booked the last three miles like we had wings on our feet. God only knows how I always wish for that feeling on race day. Now, in a nutshell Frank is a huge inspiration to me. He started his running career a little later yet he has logged in more races, both marathons and ultras in quite a short time. 62 if I recall right… Yeah, I know… I said the same thing. I don’t need to repeat it on here though… 62 and counting, which made my jaw drop when he also listed off planned races for just this year.

Now you would imagine this man being a very serious runner but you’d be surprised how humble he really is just simply running for fun. This concept baffles most people. Running? For fun? Who would do such a thing, especially at that distance?! That’s absurd!

Of course it is. We runners admit to being slightly psychotic but only for our own benefit. What do I mean? Running is a cheap therapy session, a prescription for happy pills, meditation, and confessions all in one. You don’t need to be religious but you’ll start believing in something by the end of your run.

Our conversations of course set me deep in thought even till this day. Look, I’m my own worse critic. We all are. Frank, though said some things though that made me light hearted, mainly on myself. Which has been a great need lately. We all have the little voices in our heads, or the devil and angel on our shoulders either confusing us, misleading us, or blessing us and allowing us to make a change in our lives. “The Committee” as Frank puts it. Runners talk to themselves, or so it seems but really we battle with the good and evil of own self. You can look at it from this perspective, the longer we run for, the more likely that we will come to a conclusion or acceptance of whatever it is that may be holding us back, by the end of it. I am a prime example of this.

As I was talking to Frank, telling him the of recent altercations with myself. I often pin how I know I have certain things going for me: my athleticism, my dedication to be healthy and fit, blah blah blah. I never hesitate to add how I had things working against me… at least I thought so. I described the battles that go on within me between my heart and mind and it’s my body that takes the beating. Frank brought it up towards the end of our run, “You know…You say you have these things working for and against you, but this whole time, I haven’t heard you say one thing that is working against you.” I was going to begin arguing back as I always did but realized with a contemplative look that I had no argument. God, did I feel stupid. I have to say sorry to all those who have been consistent with telling me how I am too hard on myself. I get it.

This past weekend solidified that fact. It took my best friend, a good workout and a heartwarming message and gift for me to realize that my potential is above what I have ever given myself credit for. I guess the transformation I have made personally is so noticeable that people compliment me on it. It’s like a new wardrobe, really. It takes some time to adjust to a new style but eventually, people will start commenting on it, the style will grow on you and it then becomes a part of you. At least, that’s how I look at it. People grew to know me for wearing workout clothes and running shoes wherever I go. J

Anyway, I have new goals set and I look forward to accomplishing them and if I need any help, I’ll look for the honesty and therapy in running to snap me back to reality.

A Dash Of Cinnamon and Voila!

Cinnamon

I noticed a pattern when I am cooking, or creating rather, that I end up using an ingredient that I propose that everyone should have in their kitchen spice rack. Cinnamon. I never really thought about how much of my food I put it in but it is one of the most versatile spices. I remember when I was little my mom teaching me how to make French toast, but it wasn’t just plain ol’ French toast, it was cinnamon French toast. And even though you rolled them out from a tube, cinnamon rolls were another breakfast favorite in my house. Cinnamon-raisen bread, and cinnamon apple sauce. Now cinnamon coffee, and vanilla cinnamon tea! Needless to say, favorite holiday pies are filled with it. Many dietary supplements include it as well. It is, though artificially created, the scent of candles and airfresheners. So we all agree that cinnamon just magnifies the greatness of anything it is added to. I though, cannot settle with just taste or smell. I want to know why. I want to know the benefits of one of my favorite spices.

Having access to my school’s articles and journals, I did some research of the physiological effects of cinnamon. (What does that mean?!) What does it do to your body or for your body!? One article I found was more based on why it was used in energy and creatine supplements. Creatine, found in meat is not an essential nutrient but is produced by the amino acids found in the body. It isn’t so easily absorbed, due to the high levels of insulin needed to allow it to be absorbed. So what supplement companies have been doing is trying to find active ingredients to enforce that absorption without having high levels of sugars. Cinnamon contains hydroxychalcone which imitates insulin, potentially binding to muscle cells which enhances the uptake of guess…creatine as well as glucose and amino acids which aids in quicker muscle recovery. This ultimately leads to, in short, a modest enhancement of muscle performance and growth unless abused. (Too much of a good thing is actually never a good thing).

Cinnamon is an antimicrobial, antifungal, anticlotting, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant rich spice. It may help lower LDL Cholesterol (that’s the bad kind), and regulate blood sugar levels in patients with Type II diabetes. Studies have shown that it relieves pain in arthritis patients and can help lower high blood pressure. Cinnamon can help with alertness, memory and can promote satiety, so you feel fuller longer and it is a natural diuretic aiding in digestion. On top of that it is high in manganese, fiber, iron and calcium. No wonder it was mentioned several times in the bible, and when it was first harvested in the tropical areas like Sri Lanka, it was worth its weight in gold. A recommended daily dose is 1/4-1/2 teaspoon a day.

Just do yourself a favor…Don’t ever take it by the spoonful. Please mix it into whatever it is you’re cooking, baking, or mixing.

 

 

 

Mangoes, Greek yogurt, Vanilla protein and…Cinnamon (1/2-1 tsp) with vanilla, almond granola on top

  *If you use frozen mangoes it becomes more of a pudding consistency rather than liquify.

References:

O’Reilly, Steve. CREATINE BOOSTER: CINNAMON EXTRACT. Flex; Jul 2005, Vol. 23, Issue 5

Zanteson, Lori. 2010. “Celebrate the Season with Cinnamon for Health.” Environmental Nutrition 33, no. 12: 8.

A Lesson Learned from Running

Much needed venting has been done these past couple of days. Thank you mom for helping me all you could, and thank you Target employees and customers that probably heard about 95% of my rant while I paced the food aisles. You didn’t need to put up with me. Anyway…

I back tracked on a past post (the whole 5 I have) and realized something about my running plan. Which wasn’t much of a plan at all until today, when not only did my emotions fly because of life’s uncertainties but so did the frustration of having limited ideas to my workout/diet schedule. When you accept that you have complete control over your workouts and appetite you could do just about anything with it to reach your goals. As for the rest of your life, you’re pretty limited to your control switches. I figured out that my issue of having to make up miles can be substituted with sprint intervals. It’s just the matter of me overcoming my obsession, and I admit to it being just that, that you don’t have to run for that long. Every. Day. I can (if I have to) get used to this idea (until the weather gets warmer), because feeling like a hamster on the track running in circles is, well, boring. Sprinting though is a totally different level, even though I do the sprint intervals on the same track. Regardless sprinting aids in endurance for distance running as well as makes you faster because you build up you leg muscles immensely and your lung capacity the longer you sprint for. I’ve always been a sprinter, in middle school, high school and recalling even when I was younger just running freely. The power of pushing off your toes with such force and covering a good distance in the shortest time possible was one of the easiest ways I could build confidence in my running. Oh did I take off with it to. I don’t have many to list but I have big feats to put on a resume, and the list will continue to grow until I can run no more.

Going back to my obsession, addiction, whatever you wish to call it. I manage to run a personal record of a mile (that’s 1 (ONE) mile)  warm-up yesterday but clocked in another mile worth of sprints. But only one more. I wasn’t always this competitive. It’s not even just with other people, if anything I am my own worst and best opponent. I’m glad I don’t talk to myself out loud because people would seriously think I have multiple personalities. But any way, as I was finishing up the rest of my workout and walking out of The Rec, I had a feeling that dawned over me for the first time in a long time. I felt, internally, deep in my heart, that I was OK. Completely, OK with the idea that I did not run THAT MUCH.

 A few of you may laugh at this but seriously, it was a problem for me because that obsession of having to write 3, 4, 5 progressively got worse to 6, 7, 8 miles each day on the calendar. Mind you, this only happen in the month of January when I told myself I would log my miles. My first mistake was not telling myself that it was okay if I didn’t run more than 6 miles a day, or run at all for that matter. Now, we all know someone who does this as part of their morning routine and has been doing it for years, but there is a big difference between them and me… I’m NOT them. I’d like to think I’m the short, white-girl version of a Kenyan but in my opinion my legs are not long and lean like a gazelle’s but more short and thunderous like a hippopotamus’ and some days I feel just as big as one.

Why, you say, was this such an issue rather than a motivation? Because I could correlate my running with other aspects of my life. How? I realized that if I could not accept that my days will not always consist of a 6 mile run and I became stressed out about it, almost frustrated with myself, than how was I supposed to accept the things I cannot change? (Ring a bell?)

This is what I walked away with, or ran away with rather:

1. Running (Life) can be planned but never set in stone. So accept it.
2. Running (Life) can be limited, and can only be accomplished when managed with time between events, and other priorities. So accept it.
3. Running (Life) cannot be controlled in its entirety. Meaning, it can change because of obstacles, pain or turning down a different path into the unknown. So accept it.
4. Running (Life) should be enjoyed regardless, because it is an adventure. So just accept it.

Running For A Cause

If you took a look at my other pages you’ll notice my “upcoming events” and one of the events will be the Presidential Towers. Like “Race up the Hancock” I’ll be climbing many, many stairs but in 4 different buildings. Now, all who know me already know that I’m looking forward to it. Even though it is a week after a half marathon but I’ve done crazier things!

There’s a bit of a difference as to why I am running this event though. Not only is it for my personal enjoyment of overcoming another obstacle but I am doing it to help a friend. Ralene, one of my best running buddies and even greater friend, started a fund raiser for the American Lung Association. Her story as to why she is putting so much effort into such a cause is the reason why I am writing this now. I have an ungodly amount of respect for her, her strength, determination and wisdom. She is someone I greatly look up to when it comes to overcoming life’s misfortunes. Ralene lost her mother July 9, 2009 to lung cancer.

I guess sitting with her for coffee, working out with her, and running along side her, you start seeing things from her perspective. Though, I cannot fathom what it must have felt to lose such a powerful and influential figure. I love my mom, I cannot imagine life without her or either of my parents for that matter.

So this is what I have to ask of those who are in support of me and what I do. I’m hoping you will be willing enough to donate, any amount you wish, to my effort to help Ralene push past this goal and help her cause. As an individual I have to raise $100.00 for her team Climbing To The Heavens. Even if I reach that I want to exceed it.

This is the link to my personal page:
http://action.lungusa.org/site/TR/StairClimb/ALAUM_Upper_Midwest?px=4397854&pg=personal&fr_id=2570

Do not feel obligated to donate, especially my college friends! I know your pain. I would lay the money down myself but that isn’t an option.

Thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the support I get for keeping running and racing a passion of mine.