Advocare 24 Day Challenge

I decided to try out the Advocare 24 Day Challenge!!  I am starting today instead of tomorrow so that my last day will be Friday before Memorial Day weekend-priorities! :)  So last night, I had popcorn and diet coke for dinner.  I went with some girlfriends to see The Other Woman.  Total chick flick and hilarious!  We all loved it!!

Back to the challenge: I am starting today...so I got up this morning, took measurements, weighed in, took before photos, and jumped right in to the challenge.  I also had the fiance weigh in and took his measurements.  He is doing his own supplement challenge and I wanted to see how clean eating effects him too.  I am sure he will drop lots of weight and inches since he is a dude!

Thoughts so far:

The fiber drink is terrible, BUT not as bad as I thought it would be.  Spark is delicious!  I have had Spark before, but the Pink Lemonade is really really good!!  The Catalyst and OmegaPlex pills are giant! 

Why did I decide to do the challenge?  Several reasons.

#1-Becky encouraged me to join and it seemed like a good opportunity to try it out.  Several healthy living bloggers have been posting about positive results not only with weight loss, but with energy levels and overall health improvements!

#2-My energy levels have been low this year.  I don't know if it is the terrible winter, but I have felt sluggish and lacking in motivation.  I would love to get some of that back!

#3-No one loves to get into a bikini (except maybe swim suit models!) and it is always a little stressful trying to get in summer shape...so this is a great kick start to get that beach body!  Plus, I have to look hot in my wedding dress in 6 months!!

#4-Clean eating-I have been trying to eat more whole foods, but there is always room for improvement.  I eat pretty healthy most of the time, but processed foods definitely creep into my diet more than they should.  I am looking forward to seeing how I feel without them.

#5-Cut waaayyyy back on soda and booze.  I have one can of diet coke per day + an occasional fountain drink as a treat.  I feel like this is too much and would like to completely eliminate it for the challenge.  Booze on the other hand-I will cut back on this one.  It is getting to be wonderful patio weather and there are a few events that are on the calendar where I plan to limit myself to 2 drinks. 

Have you done the 24DC?
Did you make any modifications to fit your lifestyle?

I can't wait to see how I feel and progress throughout the challenge!

Treat Yourself Tuesday #10

I'm linking up with Becky over at Olives 'n Wine for another installment of Treat Yourself Tuesday.  If your new to TYT, head over here to read all about it.

This week I had several fun treats.  Most of which are healthy (ahem-not like the pie and Easter candy from last week's post!). 

#1-I went to the farmer's market to stock up on healthy goodness!  I LOVE the farmer's market on Saturday mornings.  I got most of my veggies for the week, some flavored pastas, local honey (helps with allergies and tastes greats!), and some herbs to plant.

#2-I planted a little herb garden this week.  I can't wait to enjoy the fresh herbs that I planted.  Bonus-if this goes well, I will venture out and try more herbs!  I discovered that there are tons of options when I went to buy these!

#3-Hike and Zip-full recap post here.  This was a treat because it was a new and fun adventure to try!

#4-I'm not sure this will be a treat, but the results should be!!  I'm starting the Advocare 24 day challenge on May 1st.  I know it is random to start on a Thursday, but ending Memorial Day weekend will be fantastic!  I'll be posting updates throughout the challenge.  There is still time to start before bathing suit season official begins.  If you're interested contact Becky at  becky@olivesnwine.com for more info on ordering!

 

This last one is a bonus-puppy treat.  We got him this cute fuzzy toy with a tug rope and a squeaker.  It lasted about 8 hours before it was completely destroyed.  We had one happy puppy destroying it though!!

 How did you treat yourself this week?

Have you done the Advocare 24 Day Challenge?  What were your results?  Any tips?

Hike and Zip

Saturday afternoon we went to a brand new zip line place that opened about 45 minutes outside of KC. They have several options and we chose the hike and zip option. 

Once we got all of our gear on, we got on a bus for a quick drive to our drop off spot. 

The hiking was more of walking very short distance between zip lines. The first was pretty slow and a great starter for those in the group who had never done zip lining and were a little nervous. 

Nerves gone!! Off to the next 2 lines. 

The last was the fastest and most fun. It was definitely a fun and different experience. They have a tree top line tour as well with much higher and faster lines and there are 5 zips. I think we will try that next time!! 

Have you ever been zip lining? 

Do you have any fun and adventurous activities near you? It's so fun to try new stuff. Bonus-exercise and adventure!!

New Herb Garden

I decided that I wanted to plant a herb garden so I can have fresh herbs for cooking. 

So I headed to the farmers market to pick some out. 

Mint, basil, oregano, rosemary and thyme are what we decided to plant. Seems like a good start! We will see if I can keep these alive!! 

I also planted some ground cover in my bigger pot. I can't plant flowers in it because the cat sits in it. It's really cute, but really bad for keeping plants alive!!

The patio is looking like Spring!!

What are your favorite herbs?

Any tips for success with my little garden? I need all of the advice that I can get!! :)

Farmers Market Finds

Last night we went to a BBQ for a friend's birthday. Delicious food...

Birthday cake...

Even some dancing and Cards Against Humanty...

There were 2 other big dogs there so we took Porter. They played all night and he is worn out today!!

This morning we got up and headed to the farmers market. I love going to the farmers market. It is one of my favorite Saturday activities!

I stocked up today!! Flavored pastas, honey, and veggies. 

I also bought some herbs to plant. I'll do a whole post on my upcoming herb "garden". Let's hope I keep them alive!!

Silent Motivation Friday

Happy Friday! Just a few motivating pics to brighten your day!!  I'm linking up with Katy for Friday Favorites because these are some of my favorite inspirational quotes for the week.

Have a great weekend!! 

Kansas City Corporate Challenge Time

It's that time of year again when I become a multisport participant for Kansas City Corporate Challenge.  "Started in 1980, the Kansas City Corporate Challenge is an Olympic-type event that allows Kansas City area corporations to interact with each other through a variety of sporting events."  This means that companies are grouped by size and compete in all kinds of events.  It is really fun!  I usually end up participating in a ton of events!!  Plus, the events raise money and awareness for Special Olympics!

The event kicks off with a walk and party for all of the companies.  That is the Friday.  I never go because it is always the same weekend as one of my best friend's birthdays.  I hear it is a good time!  Other events include:

Disc Golf

Horseshoes

Darts

Dodgeball

5K



Finish of the 5K last year-My PR for this distance!  23:40

Fishing

Golf

Trap Shooting

Half Marathon

Last year, I had to rush straight from the half to volleyball play in games.

Racquetball

Volleyball

Oh, yeah...hitting off balance...pretty much my game!

Bike Race-super short sprint about 3 miles
Softball
Table Tennis
Track-this is a week and I am captain.  Events include-400M, Mile, Shot, Long Jump, 100M, Sprint Medley Relay, Mile Relay, and Distance Medley Relay.  I typically do everything except Shot Put.  I am there from 4:30pm to between 10pm and 11pm each night.  It is a loooonnnngggg week, but usually very fun!

Basketball
Tennis
Soccer-our men's team is good, but our women's includes all of us who don't know how to play.  I'm terrible! 
Bowling
Duathlon and Triathlon-sprint distances
Weightlifting
Flag Football

Swimming-200M Freestyle, 50M Breaststroke, 100 IM, 50 Backstroke, 50 Butterfly, 200 IM Relay, 50 Free style and 200 Freestyle Relay...I do not swim.  #1-I am not a strong swimmer, more of a floater and sun bather #2-I do not own a 1 piece and I am certainly not swimming in a bikini in front of coworkers!
Last but not least-Tug of War.  This event is fun, but you have to start at 7am on a Saturday.  I have done it, but usually choose not to skip this one.

At some point in time, I have participated in most of the events-including weightlifting which is hilarious!!  It is some formula based on your body weight vs what you bench press.  Let's just say, I didn't win!

Do you have a corporate challenge in your city? 
What events do you participate? Or what would you want to do if you could?

Weekly Workouts and Eats

After returning from Texas where my only workout was participating in a 5k, I had to get back to working out and cleaner eating.  This week:

Monday-biked for 45 minutes...with the pup napping in front of me.

Then I took the pup out for a 2.75 mile run walk.  He is still learning to run, so we take walk breaks and water breaks frequently.  He was worn out by the end.



Couln't even open his eyes!!!

 He was pretty hot after the run, so I put him in a cool shower to help him relax and cool down.  He must have enjoyed it because he laid down and refused to get out.

Monday Dinner: Chicken, Snow Pea, Peppers, and Bacon Ranch Pasta.  I sauteed up the chicken and veggies, made 4 slices of bacon in the oven and added some ranch dip spices to chicken broth for the "sauce".  Then I tossed it all together with some whole wheat rotini.  I loved it and will make it again!

Tuesday-ran a quick 3 miles at 8 minute pace.  Then I picked up the pup for another run/walk.  We went 2.5 miles with less running and more playing yesterday.  He did great and didn't even need a cold shower to cool down!!

After I finished the run and walk, Bobby and I headed to the driving range.  I am getting better, but have a loooonnnnnggggg way to go!!

We didn't get home until after 8pm, so I had to make a quick dinner.  The Pampered Chef covered baker is amazing!! **I am not a sales rep for Pampered Chef-I just really like their products!**  You can cook chicken and pork in the microwave and it tastes like it was cooked in the oven!

Last night I made pork chops-seasoned with some salt, pepper, garlic, and onion only.  Put them in the baker and cook for 6-8 minutes.  I did 8 and they were a little over cooked.  I will try 6 minutes next time!  I made a quick mac and cheese side and some Green Giant veggies all in about 15 minutes.  I was a hungry hippo, so the quick meal was nice!

Wednesday-tonight's plan is to run/walk with the pup for 2.5-3 miles.  Then I have an indoor volleyball game.  Dinner plans-sloppy joe freezer meal-she called it Sloppy Tamale Pie, but I made a few tweaks to this recipe.  This was my favorite of the freezer meals that I made earlier this year.  I serve it over baked potatoes or buns.  This will be perfect for tonight because I will be coming and going with volleyball and Bobby is playing golf after work. 

Thursday-Workout plan-run 5 miles and then volleyball practice for our company team.  Dinner plans-chicken "fried" rice.  Homemade chicken fried rice is one of my favorite meals.  Better than takeout in my book!

Friday-Workout plan-quick HIIT workout.  We are heading to a barbecue at a friend's house for her birthday.  I am making shrimp-stuffed with cheese and jalapeno and wrapped in bacon.  They are delicious and I can't wait to make them to share!!

Saturday-Workout plan-longer run of 6-8 miles.  It will depend on how my ankle is feeling.  We are also going hiking and ziplining on Saturday.  Then dinner at Bonefish Grill.  They have great food and lots of healthy options!!  Although, I will splurge on Bang, Bang Shrimp!!

Sunday-Workout plan-Bobby and I are running in a flat 4 mile race called the Trolley Run on Sunday.  It should be fun!!  Last year I beat him and he was not very happy about it.  I have a feeling it will not happen again!!

What are your workout and meal plans for the week?

Treat Yourself Tuesday #9

It's time for another installment of Treat Yourself Tuesday.  It's always good to treat yourself!!  Head over to Olives 'n Wine for all the details and the linkup!

I treated myself to a trip to Texas to see my family over Easter.  My favorite treats involve getting to see family and friends!!!  The trip was a blast and I feel like I got to spend quality time with everyone.  I especially love getting to spend time with my grandparents.  I lost one set of grandparent last year, so I really appreciate the time I get with the grandparents that I have left.  Nothing beats my grandmother's pies!!  Obviously I treated myself to a piece of pie!!

I did a little shopping while I was in Texas.  I usually do online shopping because I am too lazy to go shopping.  I got to spend some quality time with one of my besties.  We ran a 5k and then went shopping.  I found lots of spring/summer deals!!

Check out these adorable sandals!!  Target all the way and they were on sale for $16 each.

This swimsuit top (also Target) was only $5.  The bottoms were not on sale, but black swimsuit bottoms go with everything!!!  I hope I can save the suit for my honeymoon!

Another summer staple-cuffed jean capris.  I loved this pair.  Lots of stretch and a good color.  These are from Dillards.

Both of our families got us Easter candy.  I'm going to have to ration it...maybe this is all that I will treat myself to today...maybe!!!  I do have a wedding dress to fit in!

How did you treat yourself this week?

Boston Strong

Monday is here much too soon!!  I always need a day off to recover from vacation.  Does anyone else feel this way?

The good thing about today is that it is Boston Marathon day.  The running world and all of the country are standing behind those running and spectating today.  ESPN did a great a E60 show telling 5 stories of survivors.  President Obama also provides an inspirational message in the show.  This is a great article with some of the Boston stories.  http://espn.go.com/espn/feature/story/_/id/10751172/boston-marathon-2013-race-remember

Today we will all be Boston Strong!



Good luck to all of those running!!  I will be dedicating my run today to those in Boston. 

Have a great start to the week!

Easter Weekend Wrapup

It was a busy little vacation with lots of time spent with my family and close friends in Texas. It was a blast!!  I'm blogging from my phone at the airport on my layover....so this will be a picture heavy post. 

Activities for the weekend:

Playing golf at the driving range and my dad helped fix my swing...I did much better than a few weeks ago. 

Wine and fire pit sitting

Painting my parents shutters, front door and back doors. No pics of this because I forgot to take a before shot and I didn't want to get paint on my phone!!

One of my friends and I also ran a 5k on Saturday morning. She got 1st for the girls and I got 2nd. The benefits of running in small town tiny races!! 

Easter egg dying:

Hiding the eggs and some candy for a quick hunt:

Some people were better helpers than others:

My grandma made several pies, but my favorite was the chess pie. 

Pretty and delicious!!

I'm hoping for a little nap on the way home like these bunnies...

I'm excited to get home and relax a little before heading back to work tomorrow. 

How was your weekend?

Happy Easter!!