2014 Color Me Rad 5k

If you follow me at all, then you know that this past weekend, Jason and I ran the Color Me Rad 5k. I pretty much blew up all of my social media about it! Although we have been running for awhile, this was the very first 5k we have ever signed up for. It was kind of like a day date for Jason and I because we almost never do anything together, but when we do, it's almost always something truly worth our time, since they are so rare. 

At no time was I nervous, but I was a little concerned about how I would do with "people obstacles". You know, all the other runners being so close to me. Usually it's just me and the treadmill or me and the open track, and never anyone around me. It started out a little slow, since the Color Me Rad is a fun run and a lot of people who sign up choose to walk, but once we got going and the people spread out, things weren't that bad. 

I definitely recommend Color Me Rad for first time 5k runners, especially if you aren't sure you can finish the race, running the entire time. Jason and I have already been looking at another 5k in May, and I hope we will be able to attend. We would love to train and eventually run a half marathon in the next couple of years even!

Have you ever run a 5k or even a marathon? What were some of your favorites?

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The Polyvore Files | Color Me Rad

Yesterday Jason and I ran the Color Me Rad 5k so I decided to put together an outfit similar to what I wore.

Click HERE to see information about the items in this collection.

Color Me Rad is a fun run, so it's definitely a great first 5k for anyone who can't always run an entire 3.1 miles. There were people walking the entire way, some running and walking, and some, like Jason and I who ran the entire distance. I personally feel like you shouldn't be signing up for any type of 5k, marathon, whatever, if you aren't going to make the effort to at least try to run. I will be sharing some of the photos from it later on this week, so be sure to stop back by and check them out.


Have you ever run a 5k, or even a marathon? I'd love to hear about some of your favorites. 
New to The Polyvore Files? It's so simple to participate. Create an outfit or a room decor idea over at Polyvore, share it in a blog post, then come back and link up here with me or with Kara over at The Snugly Duckling. Be sure to grab our button below too!

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An InLinkz Link-up

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April Fitness Challenge: Step Out, Move About!

I'm partnering up with Erica over at Loyal RUN this month to bring you this great fitness challenge. I find it so much easier to accomplish my goals when I have someone who can push me to do my best and to talk to when I feel like giving up. I can always count on Erica to say the right things to me.

In March, I participated in the 30 Miles in March challenge she was doing, and not only did I meet my goal, I went beyond the 30 miles as well. Having that goal in the back of my mind each time I ran, motivated me to always try hard. There were some days that I just didn't want to run, but I hopped up on that treadmill and pounded out the miles anyways. Afterwards, I was always glad I didn't back out.

Now that the weather is starting to become warmer (in some areas), getting outside is on the top of my list of things I want to do. There are few things better than getting outside to breath the fresh air and getting that body moving to elevate your heart rate. Not only is it great to get outside for the fresh air, even just a few minutes in the sun allows your body to absorb Vitamin D. If you ever feel tired and depressed, especially in the winter months, you might be lacking Vitamin D.

The April Fitness Challenge is to spend 5 hours outside being active. Whether you are running, riding a bike, playing soccer with your kids, shooting hoops with some friends, or just taking a walk with your family, get out there and move with intention.

Accept this challenge as a way to get yourself motivated to start working out, or in addition to the workout routine you already have. I run on the treadmill in the morning, but it's going to be a beautiful week here in NC this week, so it will be the perfect opportunity to take the kids to the park as well. What a difference just being outside in the sun can make!

And God said, "Let there be light," and there was light. And God saw that the light was good. - Genesis 1:3-4

Be sure to head over to Loyal RUN for some tips about sunscreen before you head outside!

And don't forget to share photos and use the hashtag #stepoutmoveabout on Instagram to stay connected with everyone who participates. 


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Sometimes You Have to Push Yourself to Know Your Potential

At the beginning of this week, I just wasn't feeling a workout, and went three days without running or anything. I wasn't in any kind of funk, I just felt tired. My body was screaming "Go easy on me!" so I gave it what it wanted and rested for a few days. I even thought maybe I was trying to get sick, and that I would probably not accomplish my goal of 8 miles this week either.

Wednesday evening I started to feel a little better, and while I talked to Jason on the phone about some of the workouts he has been doing during PT, I decided that if I felt better on Thursday, I was going to challenge myself during my next run. I told him I was going to try to run my fastest mile in 9 minutes. Now, if you know me, you know, it's not about speed for me. It's all about distance. I would rather pump out 3 miles with a good pace, than to do one mile as fast as I can. I am slowly training myself to run further distances, because eventually, I would like to be able to run a half marathon. Burning myself out in a 9 minute mile won't get me there. Eventually my miles will becoming faster as I become stronger, but I am not at that point yet.

My goal was to run the mile in 9 minutes. My results were 9:13. I didn't make my goal, but it was still my fastest mile to date. I'm not gonna lie, it was tough! I was literally screaming at myself to keep going. I did it, it felt great to accomplish, and I realized that it really wasn't my body that wanted to give up, it was my brain. My brain was trying hard to convince me that I had had enough, but I blocked that little voice and pushed on.

I woke up this morning still feeling excited about my fastest mile, so I decided to push myself again, but this time to accomplish a goal of running my longest distance. I set a goal to run 6 miles at a pace that I was comfortable with and set out to see what I could do. Not only did I make it to 6 miles, I actually felt like I could continue on, but I didn't. It's all about baby steps for me, and I think it's important to revel in your accomplishments a little.

Sometimes you have to push yourself to know your potential, but at the same time, set goals that are realistic. We all have the potential to run faster, run further, to do 10 more squats when your legs feel like jello, or to go a little bit further no matter what the workout is. I certainly never thought I would get there, but I am glad I challenged myself. When your brain tells you that you need to stop, keep going just a little longer!

I want to challenge myself in other areas as well, so I am definitely looking forward to Jason getting back from Missouri. We will be starting a fitness routine together and he is going to teach me some of the workouts he has been doing for strength training. Even he said that his whole body feels like mush after doing some of these moves.


What are some of the accomplishments you have had recently from just pushing a little harder than you thought you could handle? What did you discover you had the potential to do that you didn't think was possible?


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Healthy, Wealthy, & Wise with Fit Happy Headbands

What an amazing feeling it is, to push through a long hard workout. I never thought in a million years that I would love running as much as I do. I still remember back to a few years ago when I couldn't even run more than a 1/4 of a mile without feeling like my throat was going to close. Now I can easily pound out 5 miles during a workout, and I am pretty proud of how far I have come.

Ashley, over at Fit Happy, recently sent me some of her workout headbands to try out, and I must say,  a headband is now officially a must for me. Usually, while running, no lie, I have to pull my shirt up on the side to wipe the sweat from my forehead, and away from my eyes. I'm sure when I'm running at the track, all the passersby love that!

Let me just tell you, these things are awesome! Not only are they super comfortable and stay put during my runs, they definitely keep the sweat out of my eyes. They are such a perfect fit on my head because most other headbands I either have to constantly adjust them or they shoot off like a rubber band. They are made of a nylon spandex material, which is basically the same or similar material that women's swimsuits are made of. Each one has a thick piece of elastic in the back that keeps the headband in place.

There is a huge variety of solid colors to choose from, as well as a few patterns, including the trendy chevron patterns in an assortment of colors too. Another one of my favorites is this American flag headband. How awesome is that one?

Ashley was super great to work with and really pays attention to detail when it comes to her products.  She sent me one of her most popular styles in 3 different colors. I love how these headbands are crafted. They aren't just strips of fabric that have been sewn to a piece of elastic. Their unique design is what makes them fit so well and stay in place. Be sure to check them out for yourself!

I can hardly believe that in a little over a week I will be running in the Color me Rad 5k with Jason. It's kind of a big deal for me since it will be my first 5k! And, guess what? The run is on the exact one year anniversary of when I officially committed to this new lifestyle and started losing weight last year. This run will be a celebration of the nearly 60 lbs. I have lost in the last year. I will definitely be wearing one of my Fit Happy headbands!

Be sure to follow Fit Happy over at Facebook with Murabelle (the parent company to Fit Happy), to stay up to date on sales, new items, and even giveaways! 

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Healthy, Wealthy, & Wise: Freezer Paper Fitness Tanks

Yesterday, I shared with you a new workout tank that I purchased at Kohl's this past week. I have been seeing all kinds of tanks everywhere all over the internet, in stores, and even on other people the few times I have made it out to the track recently. I wanted some of my own, but the crafter in me, just couldn't pass up the opportunity to make my own.

I made Elijah a bunch of shirts last year using the freezer paper stenciling method, and I wanted to try it again on some inexpensive plain workout tanks I purchased at Walmart. I also had some iron on letters from a project ages ago, so rather than let them collect dust any longer, I put them to good use by creating a couple of short sayings with the letters that were left.

Not only do you get to try to read these backwards in a dirty mirror, but you get to see my crazy hair. The second one is the one I did with freezer paper and is hard to read here, especially backwards, but it says, "FIT MOM of six kids". On the third one, I added this cute little bow that definitely gives it a feminine touch! I used the same method for making the knotted hair ties, but instead of tying the bow to the elastic, I simply tied them to the strap of my shirt. What do you think? I love how they turned out, and have plans for a few more shirts. 

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I just want to thank everyone who has shown me love and support lately. I have gotten so many emails and comments from you all with stories of your own weight loss journeys and challenges. Some of you have even revealed health related issues with me that have made it difficult for you to either lose weight, or the reason you started your weight loss journey. I want you all to know that I read each of your stories and care deeply about you all. I believe we are all here to uplift and encourage each other, and as you think I am inspiring you, you are inspiring me as well. 

Please continue to follow me on Instagram where I am always sharing about my journey to better health and fitness. You can also friend request me on my personal Facebook account, where I share as well.

                    

The Polyvore Files | Work it, Girl!

I am in beast mode with my health and fitness again. The holidays have passed, I am anticipating the warmer days ahead (even if they are still a bit off in the distance), and I want to look amazing this Spring and Summer. This was the first year since 2004 that I didn't start off the year either overweight from a previous pregnancy, or actually pregnant. So this year, there is no challenge to lose a massive amount of weight before bathing suit season. I have just a few pounds to lose and some toning to start working on.

Jason and I have been discussing how the investment of a treadmill would actually be a great thing for us. Some days, I just can't get out for a run, either because I don't have someone to watch my younger 3 or because of the weather. A treadmill will give me that opportunity to keep my workouts consistent, and doing something I enjoy... running!

I created this file in Polyvore, highlighting some of my favorite running and healthy lifestyle necessities, and at the end, I have also included a few of my favorite workout stations on Pandora that I usually listen to. Jason and I recently signed up for the Color Me Rad 5k and I want to be in the best shape I can be as I celebrate one year of weight loss on our April 5 run.

• Pants - My favorite workout pants are a pair of Fila brand that I got a couple of years ago at Kohl's. I have purchased a variety of others, including a super expensive pair of Under Armour that I was highly disappointed in. 
• Shirt - If it's super cold, I can wear a long sleeve wicking shirt, but for the most part, I prefer a tank top when running. Too much in my way just gets annoying and slows me down. 
• Sports Bra - A sports bra is a must. I have yet to find a sports bra with an underwire that fits me properly, so I just make due with the ones I have like this one. 
• Running Shoes - I haven't exactly had an opportunity to try a large variety of running shoes, but out of the 10 or so pair that I have had the last several years, the Adidas Energy Boost are by far my favorite. I have a bad knee area from broken leg several years ago and since I purchased these shoes, I have yet to have knee issues. Seriously, no joke...NONE! I have them in blue but would love to have them in this purple next. They are a bit pricey but definitely worth every penny!
• Armband - I just recently purchased a Belkin iPhone armband, after using one Jason had. I was previously using a waistband device, but prefer this much better.
• Earbuds - I was previously using these Yurbud earbuds, which I do love, but they didn't fit in my tiny little ears, quite like I wanted them too. I recently purchased Sony headphones similar to these and as much as I loved my Yurbuds, these are amazing! 
• Water bottle - Surprisingly, I wasn't too picky in this department, so I really don't have a water bottle recommendation. I have always loved the Camelbak products, but a more affordable product is what I have, this Contigo insulated water bottle.
• Protein and Smoothie Bottle - The Blender Bottle is great for whipping up your protein shake or drinking your smoothie on the go. I use mine when I make get my protein intake every morning.
• Socks - I don't actually own any compression socks, but I have been wanting to get some for added support of my shins and calves. These are definitely my style and I would totally wear them over my pants to show them off!
• Heart Rate Monitor - I currently have a different brand of heart rate monitor, but I have been lusting over the Polar monitors for some time now. They just seem to be sleek and a lot more user friendly than what I have, so I hope to be getting one soon. Lucky for you, you may be getting one before I do because I have teamed up with 7 other awesome women to give one lucky person a Polar FT4 in the color of their choice.

My favorite Pandora channels when working out: 

1. Deadmau5
2. 80's Pop
3. Bruno Mars
4. Foster the People
5. Imagine Dragons

What are some of your favorite workout necessities? Do you listen to music when you work out? What's some of your favorite music to have or channels to listen to?



New to The Polyvore Files? It's so simple to participate. Create an outfit or a room decor idea over at Polyvore, share it in a blog post, then come back and link up here with me or with Kara over at The Snugly Duckling. Be sure to grab our button below too!

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Healthy, Wealthy, & Wise: My Current Body + An Exciting Announcement

Those of you who follow me, know that I lost over 50 pounds in 2013. It was a major accomplishment for me because I had been struggling to lose the weight I gained, after having Elijah, unsuccessfully for several years. Not until last year did it finally click, and did I start finally losing weight. I realized that it was more than just working out or just eating healthy.You just can't work off a poor diet, and I always assumed that as long as I was working out, I could just eat smaller portions of anything and still lose weight. Not until I actually changed the way I ate and worked out consistently, did I start to see results.

I still have about 10 lbs. to lose before I meet my weight loss goal, but I also want to start toning as well to replace some of those "squishy" areas. Of course, that means that I should stop relying on the scale as much because muscle weighs more than fat. Therefor, I decided to share a photo of what my current body looks like, to use as a comparison as I begin challenging myself more in the upcoming months.

This is the body of a 5 ft. tall mom who birthed 4 children and lost over 50 lbs. It's the reason I am so proud of myself and yet still uncomfortable showing my body, but it's the real me!

I am definitely not putting myself down, but this photo is a great way to visualize how weighing 120 lbs. on the scale, doesn't mean anything. There are women out there that weigh 150 lbs. with more muscle tone than I have. And, although I have a bad habit of checking my weight, I know that as long as I am eating clean and healthy and working out, then that's all that should matter. This photo is a visual, so that I may hopefully see changes in myself even when I am not seeing them on the scale.

Other than having a strong support system of friends and family to help me through the tough times, visually seeing my progress and successes are a great motivator for me. Jason has definitely been a big part of my success, but I actually get great joy out of seeing those calories burned on my heart rate monitor every time I work out!

I currently have another brand, but I have had my eye on the Polar FT4, which is actually a much more affordable brand. I plan to get this one in pink for myself in the near future. I have read many of the reviews and heard nothing but great things about it, so when I had the opportunity to join a lovely group of women and give one away, I was more than excited about it!

I'm giving you a head's up now because not only do I want to get you pumped up and excited about this awesome giveaway, but I also want you to know that if you need someone to help support you, you've got a friend in me! Shoot me an email if you want to, or simply find me on my personal Facebook page or Instagram, where I keep everyone motivated and up to date about my own health and fitness.


Be sure to stop back by Monday for your chance to win a Polar FT4 in the color of your choice. What a great device to help get you on the right track when it comes to working out!