Summer Workout Blues

The days are getting longer, the weather is getting warmer and with time at the pool looming body image issues have crept in. So here are some things that I’ve done to try to combat these negative thoughts and enjoy the summer.

First off I’ve really concentrated on trying to get back in the groove of working out again. I’m definitely someone that yoyos with my activity level. I either love working out or absolutely dread it. The past few weeks however, I tried to think about what motivates me when I do love it. I found that I am most motivated by the high I get from working out and seeing results.

Like most women seeing results can take some time and be really frustrating. I’ve read several reports that believe that it take at least 4 weeks for the average woman to start shedding pounds. Some reports even state it take 6 to 8 weeks before you can see results. Remembering the article helped a bit to prep me mentally, but it doesn't really help day to day in my frustrations to get back into my skinny jeans. So with the little tidbit in the back of my mind I've decided to do some other things to help me get my work out high instead of concentrating on results.

To combat this I’ve changed a few things up in my routine. First I’ve changed up my gym routine. Instead of doing very difficult stuff (say running for me) I’ve mixed in the things I enjoy (like lifting weights). I’ve also included more group fitness and classes I normally haven’t taken. It really helps to have someone yelling out orders and have other people experience my pain.

I've also started to look for things to do outdoors. Although the weather is getting a bit sweltering in the day I look to do things early morning, evening, or take advantage of our high country. In the evenings I take my pups on walks or try to get in a run when the sun is about to set. I've also tried getting up early to do a jog. The getting up early for the job has been a bit tough since I absolutely hate running. Being in colorado we have been blessed with numerous trails and activities you can do in the mountains which certainly beats the sweaty gym.

I've also tried to change my perspective on my definition of results. Instead of looking at my body or the scale for results, I've thought about more rewarding and healthy ways to define the word. Instead now I try to make my goals as 1 more minute on the treadmill or 1 more day at the gym than the last. I've tried to center what I think of results to my improvement in my workout and less on the superficial. It's a challenge but let's talk in a month and see if this new outlook helps any!

Out and About

After an exhausting couple of weeks it is great to say that it’s FRIDAY!!! With the weather being less than exceptional this weekend I thought it’d be great to reflect on a few outdoor activities of the last week to get us the gloom of the weekend.

This weekend is supposed to be filled with low temperatures and rain, but that definitely was not the case last weekend. It was great to get out and take advantage of the Denver Chalk Art Festival in Larimer square. The festival took place from June 5-6 and the two day event was filled with color and talent. It was definitely great to get out and take advantage of the nice weather to see beautiful art.

The last week was also great to take in a ball game. The Rockies were up against Houston in this last series when we were able to make it out to the game. The game got pretty exciting when they were tied 2-2 in the bottom of the 9th. It looked like the Rox had a shot until a grand slam was hit in the 10th. Check out the Rockies official homepage for some great deals coming up this season. We took advantage of the Diamond deal of 4 tix, 4 dogs, 4 drinks, and parking for $59. After experiencing such a great night outdoors, with great company, for a great price you’ll be sure we’ll be back.

So you’re going to be rained in this weekend? No problem! How about taking in some World Cup Soccer! The first match of the event began just a little over 5 hrs ago and had much more in store over the next month. Upcoming matches for tomorrow include England vs US. For a complete schedule of matches go to http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/matches/calendar.html.

FOTR

With the weather turning from snow to sunshine in our lovely state I’m excited for all the outdoor activities that are starting to spring up!! One event that is definitely a hometown favorite is Film on the Rocks. Here’s a list of the shows on tap for this summer.

Film on the Rocks 2010

06/08/10 - The Hangover
06/15/10 - The Princess Bride
06/22/10 - Speed
06/30/10 - Favorite John Hughes film
07/06/10 - Raising Arizona
07/13/10 - Superbad
07/19/10 - Monty Python and the Holy Grail
07/27/10 - Clueless
08/03/10 - The Lost Boys
08/11/10 - Across the Universe

A New View

There are some things that I love to wake up to in the morning, bright sunny rooms, birds chirping sweetly, the smell of fresh brewed coffee, but some things I could do without and waking up on the wrong side of the bed is one of them. When that happens I feel that it’s just an omen for what’s to come and boy was I right. My day was filled with rude people, deadlines, and a negative air in the workplace. Trying to look at things on the bright side and to change things around before I strangled someone I found some things to lighten my mood and ultimately I tried something I had been uncomfortable with before and really enjoyed it.

Being from a social family that valued good food and good company I have always loved eating with people. I have found that eating and drinking in groups is very therapeutic for me and I have always relied on that to make me feel better or more connected to people. Actually it has come to the point that I only eat out with some one or I feel bare and naked. Even when I eat alone I tend to eat less and the meal is somewhat unfulfilling. I have always somewhat envied people that were able to eat alone out and seem to really enjoy it.

With my brain frazzled, my blood boiling and a lack of company I decided to head out to lunch solo. I thought it’s a beautiful day outside and knew that being out of the cold concrete walls of our building would really give my spirits a big lift. Now I remind you I have rarely if ever gone out in public alone to eat. Maybe it is part of my insecurities of being judged who knows, but I was determined. Along the way to the restaurant I was making excuses, there’s too much to do, where should I go, taking a long lunch will only mean I’ll have to stay later, meaning a longer work day, but I reminded myself that I needed to do this. Me time is important and overcoming this was important.

I finally pulled up to the restaurant, knowing full well that I had picked a place that was sure to be pretty quiet during the lunch hour, and wasn’t surprised to see only one other couple getting ready to go. As I was seated I cozied myself in the inner most seat and began surveying the menu. Lunch specials for $5?! Unbelievable! I order and sat looking around. Being discomforted by my own thoughts I pulled out my Iphone and began reading the news and anything else to make me seem busy. When my food finally arrived I made a conscious effort to put down my phone and enjoy each bite I took.

I began to realize that I was actually enjoying all the flavors in my entrée. Instead of having to concentrate on conversation while maneuvering food into my moving mouth I could actually taste my food. I could really savor all the ingredients that made my food delicious. I could also hear myself think. I let my mind wander and before I realized it a lot of my negative feelings had washed away.

As I paid my bill and thanked the very kind waiter I began to realize that although I was still not the most comfortable the experience was one to grow from and it was more beneficial than I could have imagined.

National BLT Month

Yes it's true, April is National BLT month! BLTs are the second most popular sandwich in the US so it isn't a surprise that this crunchy, delicious sandwich would be recognized! Even though I'm trying to eat healthy these days I couldn't resist posting about my favorite sandwich the BLT!!! So with trying to be healthy I looked up to see how bad the BLT is for you.

Here's the breakdown:

White Bread 2 thin slices ~ 170 calories

Bacon 4 pieces ~ 400 calories

Lettuce 2 leaves ~ 5 calories

Tomato 3 slices ~ 20 calories

Provolone Cheese 1 slice ~ 100 calories

Mayo 2 tbsp ~ 100 calories

Total : ~797 calories

So all in all maybe not the greatest meal but with a few adjustments you can have your beloved BLT without the guilt.

I would definitely try to cut down on the pieces of bacon if you can't altogether switch it out for Turkey bacon. I know I know, many of you may say it's not the same, but for about 1/2 the amount of calories for the same amount of slices, you may want to reconsider.

Although, cheese is definitely one of my faves, try without from time to time. You may find that you don't even miss it.

Mayo may be a staple in your sandwich as it is mine since I hate dry sandwichs, but try some other things with less calories to moisten the sandwich up. Mustard is a great alternative and will shred the amount of calories in your sandwich. However, be careful and read labels! Some honey mustard can contain 25 calories per tbsp and up!

One last trick is think about using a whole wheat tortilla and make it a BLT wrap. You still get the awesome flavors sans the filling white bread.

Even without substitutions the BLT isn't the most horrible thing out there to eat, so don't deny yourself and give yourself a treat. After all it is BLT month! =D

Need to get out?!

Wow after a busy week I finally get to sit down and write!!!

With the crazy Colorado weather starting to turn for calmer warmer days, I've started to get the itch to go outside. With many people getting the urge to experience the outdoors I thought of putting together some things to do in the coming months.

For you active nuts I probably won't have to remind you of the Bolder Boulder. This Memorial Day event promises a great time while keeping in shape. During the 10k run you will see competitive runners, costumed runners, and you might even see someone leap frog to the end. Running may seem like a drag to some but with the route lined with a cheering gallery, hand outs, and beer what could be boring about that?!

Running not your thing but still want to get out? How about biking for a cause? This year the Road to Victory Bicycle Classic will be held May 23rd. This event is also held in Boulder and benefits the Davis Phinney foundation for Parkinsons. The 40 or 60 mile ride starts at the Boulder Beer Company and covers the beautiful Boulder County terrain. If you want to be active and be inspired you won't want to miss this.

Need some creative inspiration? The First Friday Walks through the Santa Fe art district can definitely supply some of that. Featuring local artist galleries along Santa Fe are filled with people, energy, and booze. What could be better?! As the sun sets the sidewalks become filled with people, but you will be amazed by the amount of talent right here in Denver.

Maybe you're just looking for a great place to eat. Although L.A. and New York are known to be food capitals of the U.S., Denver is coming up in the ranks. Food and Wine has published their Top 10 Best New Chefs for 2010 and has highlighted a local talent, Alex Seidel of Fruition. Fruition features a great menu and is at the forefront of a growing trend to look locally for produce. Not only do they see the importance of shopping locally, but they've gone a step further and started their own Fruition Farm in Colorado.

With spring just getting kicked off who could forget baseball? Downtown is sure to be busy with Opening Day for the Denver Rockies.

Starting Out

I've always been a fan of writing and have loved to write, but in the past year or two I've stopped while looking for more purpose in my life. What to do career wise has been a big component of that. I have thought about becoming a cupcake master, graphic designer, clothing designer among a few other things. One thing that I've lost in that journey is thinking about what I love to do. So I've decided to do what I love to do whatever it may be. One thing is to write so I thought this would be a great thing to do, write about all the things I try out and see where it gets me. Who knows what will happen...